Anthony Alfonso

Cold Sores

Also called fever blisters, you don’t get cold sores from fevers or colds but they can be triggered by them. The virus that causes cold sores is usually passed via a kiss, shared utensils, or other close contact. Over-the-counter creams and ointments may help discomfort and speed healing. Frequent sores may require a prescription. Cold sores are a top mouth problem. Other problems include canker sores, TMJ, bad breath, and mouth cancer.

Thrush

Caused by candida yeast, thrush is most common in older adults or babies. But a weakened immune system, antibiotics, diabetes, or certain medications — such as inhaled corticosteroids — can give candida a chance to grow wild. Wiping away the patches will cause soreness. See a doctor for a firm diagnosis.

Black Hairy Tongue

This painless condition occurs when the little bumps on your tongue grow long and trap bacteria that live in your mouth — making the tongue look black and hairy. Causes can include antibiotic use, poor oral hygiene, smoking, drinking a lot of tea or coffee, and not producing enough saliva. Brushing the tongue and using a tongue scraper is usually all you need to treat it, though sometimes medication is necessary.

Canker Sores

No one knows what causes these small, painful blisters inside your mouth. Triggers include hypersensitivity, infection, hormones, stress, and not getting enough of some vitamins. Also called aphthous ulcers, canker sores can show up on the tongue, cheek, even your gums. They usually last a week or two. Persistent, severe canker sores can be treated with numbing creams, prescription drugs, or dental lasers.

Leukoplakia

Leukoplakia is a reaction to an irritant, like rough teeth, badly fitting dentures, smoking, and smokeless tobacco. It can show up as white patches or plaques in the mouth, is usually painless, and can’t be scraped off. Leukoplakia can also be a precancerous condition. Persistent patches or other changes in your mouth need a dentist’s evaluation.

Lichen Planus

A rare rash that shows up as lacy, white patches or red shiny bumps on the inside of the cheeks or tongue could be lichen planus. No one knows what causes it. Generally, mild lichen planus doesn’t need any treatment. If it causes pain or ulcers, it can be treated with oral and topical medication. Oral lichen planus can be chronic and may increase the risk for oral cancer. Lichen planus can also affect skin, scalp, nails, and genitals.

Geographic Tongue

When parts of your tongue are missing some of their small bumps, you end up with raised and lowered spots, giving your tongue a map-like appearance. The spots can change location, pattern, and size within minutes to hours. Geographic tongue is harmless and can come and go. It usually doesn’t need any treatment. If there’s pain, over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications can help.

Oral Cancer

A mouth sore that doesn’t go away. Unexplained numbness in the face, mouth, or neck. Problems chewing, speaking or swallowing. These are a few symptoms of oral cancer. Causes can include smoking cigarettes and using smokeless tobacco, drinking heavily, overexposure to the sun, and a family history of cancer. Oral cancer has also been linked to the human papillomavirus, or HPV. Don’t let fear keep you from the doctor — oral cancer that is caught early is treatable and curable.

TMJ

A problem with the jaw called temporomandibular joint syndrome can cause severe pain in the jaw, face, ear, or neck. Clenching, tooth grinding, or injury can all cause TMJ syndrome, but the results are often the same: pain, headaches, dizziness, even trouble swallowing. Treatment may involve rest, moist heat, a mouth guard, medication, or surgery.

Chipped Teeth

Munching on ice or hard candies, grinding or clenching teeth, even exposing teeth to heat and cold can lead to chips, cracks, and breaks in your teeth. Tiny chips or cracks may not be a bother. But anything more could lead to pain or permanent tooth damage. Your dentist can offer dental bonding, tooth contouring, porcelain veneers, and crowns to fix badly damaged teeth.

Amalgam Tattoo

Ever notice a small blue-gray “stain” in a soft part of your mouth after dental work? Called amalgam tattoos, they occur when a tiny piece of amalgam filling gets embedded in your cheek or gum. The silver in the amalgam leaches into your mouth’s soft tissue, resulting in what looks a bit like a tiny tattoo. Amalgam tattoos pose no harm. But if the blue-gray spot grows or changes color, there is a good possibility it may not be an amalgam tattoo. Ask your dentist to check it out.

Gum Disease

When periodontal (gum) disease develops, bacteria in plaque accumulate along the gum line. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. Symptoms include red, puffy, and bleeding gums. Proper oral hygiene can help prevent periodontal disease. Smoking, poor diet, and stress can make it worse.

Periodontitis

The next stage of gum disease is periodontitis, or gum infection. Increased inflammation causes the gums to recede, forming pockets between the teeth and gums. These pockets trap tartar, plaque, and food debris that eventually lead to infection and abscesses. Advanced gum disease damages the bone that supports teeth and is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. See your dentist to treat receding gums.

Aspirin Burn

Ever let an aspirin nestle in your cheek, near an aching tooth? While you may hope this relieves pain faster, instead the acid in the aspirin burns a white, rough lesion into your gums or cheek. Preventing aspirin burn is simple — swallow those pain relievers! Treatment for aspirin burn is just as basic: Time. Simple burns should heal in about two weeks.

Cavities, Abscesses, Discoloration

Flossing, brushing, and rinsing daily and regular dental checkups help prevent problems like cavities, abscesses, and tooth discoloration. Don’t mess around with a severe toothache. Dental infections can spread to the face, skull, and even to the bloodstream. See your dentist as soon as possible if your tooth aches or if you have a fever, earache, or pain when you open your mouth wide.

Bad Breath

Unbrushed teeth have food particles around them that promote bacteria and cause bad breath. Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth may be from continuous breathing through your mouth, dry mouth, tooth decay, a sign of gum disease, or even diabetes. Fight bad breath by brushing your teeth and tongue, flossing and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash daily, drinking water, and avoiding food triggers. See your dentist if bad breath persists.

“Lie” Bumps

According to an old wives’ tale, telling a lie causes a bump on the tongue. So-called “lie bumps” or transient lingual papillitis are common even if you tell only the truth. These small, harmless bumps go away on their own after a few days, but they may be uncomfortable. Their cause is a mystery — it could be a reaction to a food or a minor trauma like biting the tongue. You don’t need to treat them, although oral anesthetics may relieve discomfort. If you’re struggling to improve your oral health, don’t hesitate to talk to Holistic Dentist in Durango or other dental professional.

The 6 Worst Foods for Your Teeth

You can do more than brush and floss.

If you’re like most people, you probably do your best to keep your teeth and gums healthy by brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist. But did you know that what you eat and drink every day can affect your dental health as well? Learn the foods and drinks that take the greatest toll on your teeth, as well as steps that can minimize the damage.

1. Cling-On Foods

Sugar-laden foods that cling to your teeth can wreak havoc because they lead to tooth decay. Try to avoid sticky, sweet and chewy foods, such as candy, cakes and muffins. Whenever possible, choose fresh, naturally sweet foods instead. If you need candy to satisfy your sweet tooth, a piece of sugarless gum or hard candy is a healthier option.

2. Crunchy Carbs

If you reach for crackers or chips at snack time, rethink how you munch. Bacteria in the mouth use simple carbohydrates for food, which can up your risk of cavities. This is because bacteria produce acid products that destroy the protective covering of your teeth. Lower your risk by pairing your carbohydrates with other healthy foods to help neutralize the acid. For example, add cheese to your crackers for a healthier smile.

3. Carbonated Drinks

Carbonated drinks like soda are often high in sugar, which can coat the teeth and lead to tooth decay. But even diet sodas aren’t dental friendly; they contain their own kind of acid, which can also weaken teeth enamel. Cavities can form when enamel breaks down. If you do drink soda, try to limit your exposure. Have a soda with a meal once in a while, but don’t sip it throughout the day.

4. Other Sugary Beverages

In addition to sugar-laden soda, watch out for other sweetened beverages, such as lemonade, energy drinks, or sweetened tea or coffee. Again, sipping these drinks slowly gives your teeth a bath in sugar. Whenever possible, opt for water—the most dental-friendly beverage available.

5. Acidic Foods

Not all foods that are good for your body are also good for your teeth. Some nutritious foods can erode tooth enamel, too. These include tomatoes and citrus fruits like oranges. Don’t avoid these foods completely, but eat them with a meal to reduce their impact on your teeth.

6. Dried Foods

Although dried foods can be part of a healthy diet, the sticky consistency can cause them to adhere to teeth. Plus, the plaque acid these foods create can harm your teeth long after you’ve finished eating. Exchange dried foods for fresh whenever possible. Snack on grapes instead of raisins.

Not All Foods Are Bad

Not all foods are bad for your teeth. In fact, eating the right foods can boost your dental health. Many fruits and vegetables actually help clean your teeth. Plus, they stimulate saliva production, which washes food particles from the teeth and prevents tooth decay. Foods with calcium, such as cheese, spinach and almonds, as well as phosphorus-rich protein, such as meat and fish, can protect and rebuild tooth enamel. You should have a regular dental visit to always stay healthy at least twice a year or as recommended by Holistic Dentistry.

Reduce Dry Mouth During Cancer Therapy

Dry mouth can be a troubling side effect of cancer treatment. The drugs and radiation that treat the disease can also harm healthy cells in your mouth. They can irritate salivary glands in your mouth causing the glands to make less saliva. Your saliva may also become sticky or thick. This can cause your mouth to feel dry or parched.

For some people, dry mouth during cancer treatment is mild. For others, it can be severe. If you suffer from dry mouth, it can make you more likely to develop an infection. It can also lead to poor oral hygiene, and make it harder for you to eat, talk or swallow. Try these strategies for easing dry mouth during cancer treatment:

Stay hydrated.

Be sure to drink plenty of fluids—8 to 10 cups of liquid daily. Always keep water with you and take frequent sips throughout the day. Drinking plenty of water can help thin mucus and keep your mouth moist. But avoid caffeinated beverages like coffee, tea, soda, and energy drinks because caffeine is dehydrating. Also steer clear of acidic drinks and alcohol. They can actually make dry mouth worse.

Consider your diet.

Certain foods can help keep your mouth moist. Others can make dry mouth worse. Soft, wet foods can help ease the discomfort of dry mouth.

Foods to try include:

Casseroles, soups and stews
Decaffeinated tea with lemon
Diluted juices and sports drinks
Ice cream, pudding, and gelatin
Popsicles and slushes
Soft-boiled or scrambled eggs
Soft-cooked poultry and fish in sauce or gravy
Soft or pureed fruits like applesauce and peaches
Smoothies
Sugar-free candies and gum

Foods to avoid include:

Coarse and dry foods, like raw vegetables
Dry meats, poultry, and fish without sauces
Dry cookies, cakes and breads
Irritating or acidic foods, including spicy foods, tomatoes, and citrus fruits
Peanut butter or other sticky foods that may cling to your tongue or the roof of your mouth
Sharp, crunchy foods like taco chips, pretzels, dry cereals, and granola that could scrape or cut your mouth

Change your eating habits.

Besides changing what you eat, you may also need to change how you eat. For instance, take smaller bites. Also take the time to chew your food very well. Stick with foods that are cold or room temperature. Hot or warm foods could irritate your mouth. You can also soften dry foods by adding broth, sauce, gravy or yogurt. Sucking on sugar-free candy or chewing sugarless gum during the day might also help. This can stimulate saliva production and help keep your mouth moist.

Focus on oral hygiene.

Dry mouth can increase your risk of cavities and infections in your mouth. Smoking, chewing tobacco, or drinking alcohol can make these problems and dry mouth even worse. Practicing good oral hygiene, however, can help. Brush your teeth and gums after each meal. Be sure to use a toothbrush with extra-soft bristles. Keep it clean and store it in a dry place. Avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol. If you are not at home and can’t brush after eating, rinse your mouth with plain water. Try to rinse your mouth several times a day with warm, salted water.

Talk with your doctor about medication or supplements.

Saliva substitutes can help ease dry mouth. These products act like natural saliva, but they don’t boost saliva production. They help replace lost saliva and keep your mouth moist. Saliva substitutes come as sprays, gels and lozenges. There also are medications that can help your salivary glands make more saliva. Ask Holistic Dentist if these treatments are right for you.

Boost your comfort level.

There are a few more things you can do to keep your mouth moist. Apply lip balm regularly. This will keep your lips from getting dry and cracked. Suck on ice chips during the day to ease the feeling of dryness. Use a cool mist humidifier at night. This will prevent the air in the room from becoming too dry while you sleep.

Signs and Symptoms of Dry Mouth

Perhaps you slept all night with your mouth open. Or, you didn’t drink enough H2O after a rigorous workout. Maybe, just maybe, you had a few too many cocktails and didn’t get water in between rounds. You wake up the next morning, feeling parched–the dreaded “cotton mouth.”

We likely all indulge in a behavior that leads to a dry mouth every now and then. But if you find yourself parched more often than not, you might have what doctors call xerostomia. That’s really just a fancy term for dry mouth that happens when you don’t have enough saliva or spit–that watery stuff made by glands inside your mouth. Untreated, it can lead to real dental problems if you don’t know what to watch for.

Warning Signs

Dry mouth isn’t technically a disease; it’s a symptom that can occur from many different causes. You might get it when taking certain medications–like those used to treat depression, cancer, and high blood pressure. Radiation therapy of the head and neck can sometimes dry your mouth out, too. Certain diseases, like Sjögren’s syndrome, can also cause it.

Here are some red flags that could mean you have dry mouth:

Your throat and tongue hurt often and a lot.
You have bad breath.
You need to frequently moisten your mouth.
You feel like you always need a drink or a mouth lozenge. People with dry mouth may be very thirsty at night, waking up often to take a sip of water.
You have a severely parched pout; your lips are sore, cracked, and peeling. Doctors call this cheilitis.
Foods don’t taste the same. Dry mouth can affect your taste buds. You might have a metallic, salty, or other taste in your mouth.
Eating or swallowing is difficult. Food might stick to your tongue and inner parts of your mouth. Patients often find dry foods like toast, cereal, and crackers are troublemakers.
Dentures are painful. Dry mouth and dentures don’t mix. The false teeth need a moist mouth to fit well and feel comfortable. If your mouth is dry, the dentures can cause sores.
There are red spots in your mouth. You might see them on the top of your tongue, the roof of your mouth, and the back of your throat. You might also have ulcers.
You see white, creamy patches on your tongue and inner cheeks. This is called thrush or oral candidiasis. It can also cover other parts of the mouth, gums, and tonsils. This condition isn’t always caused by dry mouth, but it can be.
You have a lot of cavities. Saliva (and good brushing) helps flush bacteria away from your teeth and gums. Dry mouth helps bacteria breed, leading to severe tooth decay.
Lipstick sticks to your teeth. Assuming you weren’t messy with your makeup application, this can be a telltale sign of a parched pout and mouth.
The glands in front of your ears, called the parotids, are swollen.

If you have these signs or symptoms, talk to your doctor or dentist. Three out of 10 adults who have lost teeth or have gum disease had dry mouth and didn’t know it. The good news is there are easy ways to keep your mouth moist and prevent dental complications. Contact Holistic Dentistry for the best products to use.

Your Overbite Guide: Causes and Treatment Methods

What is an Overbite?

Overbites are identified when the upper teeth protrude over the lower teeth by a proportion of between 30-50%. It is what is medically referred to as a malocclusion. Oftentimes, an overbite can merely appear to be a problem with crooked teeth when in fact the person’s teeth and jaws are not lining up properly. Overbites can often be hereditary, with some people being born with malformed jaws that developed in an uneven manner.

Types of Overbites

Vertical Overbite – Where the top teeth significantly overlap the bottom teeth.

Horizontal Overbite – Occurs when the top teeth protrude over the bottom teeth.

While an overbite is diagnosed as vertical or horizontal, some patients exhibit signs of both types. Overbites can also be categorized as either dental or skeletal in nature. A dental overbite means that the teeth are causing the overbite to be created. A skeletal overbite identifies the jaw as the reason for the overbite to occur.

How is an Overbite Caused?

The most common cause of an overbite is the shape and/or size of the jaw or the teeth. This could mean having too much room in the jaw area or too little room for accommodation of one’s teeth size. If not treated, the overbite will manifest itself into allowing the teeth to crowd each other and grow in crooked if there is too little room, or the teeth will be spaced too far apart if the jaw area is too large. In infants and children, habits like thumb-sucking, sustained and consistent pacifier use and overuse of a bottle, which causes pushing the tongue against the back of the teeth, can produce an overbite. In teens and adults, chronic nail-biting and chewing of writing utensils, such as pencils or other objects, can cause an overbite. So too can losing teeth without timely repair cause an overbite. According to the American Dental Association, nearly 70% of children exhibit the signs of having an overbite.

Other causes for an overbite are:

Genetics
Grinding teeth
(TMJ) Temporomandibular joint dysfunction

What Happens If I Don’t Treat It?

If left untreated, an overbite could cause significant health complications. These include irreparable damage to teeth from abnormal positioning and possible jaw pain including temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ).

Other overbite complications include:

Tooth decay including cavities, gum disease, and worn tooth enamel
Jaw pain
Severe headaches
Discomfort or pain while eating
Trouble with fully opening or closing mouth
Sleep apnea
Difficulty speaking

An untreated overbite could also dramatically alter the facial structure and lead to psychological issues like low self-esteem. If the causes of the overbite have begun in early childhood and are continuous and severe enough, the aesthetic deterioration will take place as early as pre-pubescence and may lead to bullying issues by peers.

Treating an Overbite and Correcting It

Generally, a dentist will refer a patient with an overbite to an orthodontist for treatment. In children, they are easier to treat because a child’s jaw is still in the developmental stages. For children and teens, the most common issue is crowding of teeth in the mouth. For many adults with an overbite problem, the lack of preventative treatment early in life has led to the more severe symptoms associated with overbites. In either case, the orthodontist or dentist will examine the area and write up a treatment plan that can last for up to two years and possibly longer. Initial x-rays will be taken to determine the type of overbite and the relationship between the teeth and the jaw in determining the best treatment.

Here are some treatments your orthodontist or dentist my recommend to correct an overbite issue:

Children and Teens

Removal of baby teeth (making room for permanent teeth to grow in straight)
Growth modification device (used best during growth spurts) – helps to better position the jaw
Braces – slowly moves the teeth to correct the overbite as well as the jaw
Retainers – device used post-braces that help to keep the teeth in place

Adults

Braces – move only the teeth to correct an overbite
Teeth removal – dentists and orthodontists try to avoid this procedure but will do this in very severe overbite cases to allow the teeth more freedom to move.
Surgery – jaw problems for skeletal-type overbites can only be corrected with surgery for adults.

If your overbite is causing issues, it’s important to make an appointment with Durango Dentists for treatment. In all cases, whether child or adult the best way to prevent dental issues from occurring is to make sure you visit a dentist early and often. We recommend a checkup for children by at least the age of 7 for the detection of an overbite. Adults need to get regular checkups every six to twelve months to ensure early intervention to avoid the potentially severe physical repercussions of leaving an overbite untreated. Schedule an appointment today to discuss potential treatment options that may be suitable for you or your loved one.

8 Tips to Help Keep Your Teeth Clean Between Cleanings

Everybody loves the fresh feeling they experience after going to the dentist for teeth cleaning. But how do you maintain that feeling in between cleanings?

When it comes to dental care, it’s much easier to maintain a healthy mouth than it is to rely on the dentist to correct poor dental hygiene for you. Maintaining that just-out-of-the-dentist feeling is not as difficult as you would think. Here are some tips that can help you keep your teeth clean in between dentist visits.

1. Ditch Soda:

If you drink soda regularly, your habit is probably wreaking havoc on your teeth. The ingredients that make soda fizzy — phosphoric acid and citric acid — have been shown to eat away at your enamel, making you more susceptible to cavities.

An occasional soda isn’t going to hurt you, but your best bet is to stick to water. If you need extra flavor, try adding some fruit or mint leaves to it.

2. Cut Down on Sugar:

In addition to cutting back on soda, decreasing your sugar intake will also help keep your teeth clean and healthy in between regular teeth cleaning appointments.

Sugar promotes bacterial growth and acidity in your mouth, causing plaque to form. Plaque attacks your tooth enamel and gums, potentially leading to tooth decay. You don’t have to kick sugar to the curb completely, but limiting the amount you consume — and brushing and flossing after a sweet treat — will benefit your overall oral health.

3. Quit Smoking:

Smoking is terrible for your teeth. No matter how clean they get when you visit the dentist, continuing to smoke in between appointments will undo all the work that took place at your last appointment.

The nicotine and tar found in cigarettes eat away at your gums. Smoking also increases bacterial production and plaque in the mouth, making you more susceptible to gum disease and tooth decay. If you’re a smoker, you may also be at a higher risk for tooth loss and oral cancer.

4. Use Proper Technique:

It doesn’t matter how often you brush your teeth if you’re not doing it properly. Next time you brush, take a moment to stop and observe your technique. Are you holding the brush at a 45-degree angle? Are you using short, circular motions with the head of the brush pointed towards your gum line? Are you brushing each tooth between 10 and 15 times?

If the answer to any of those questions was no, it’s time to adjust your tooth brushing technique a bit. Those techniques have been proven to be the most effective when it comes to getting teeth clean. You may also want to talk to your dentist or dental hygienist about proper brushing and flossing technique next time you’re at the office.

5. Floss:

Flossing helps you get places you can’t reach with a toothbrush clean, leading to healthier teeth and gums. Just like brushing, though, flossing will not be as effective if you’re not doing it properly. Improper flossing can even lead to damaged gums if you’re not careful.

To truly clean between your teeth without causing damage, keep the following steps in mind.

First, wrap about two inches of floss between your fingers and unroll a fresh section for each tooth. Keep the floss tight against the tooth to break up plaque without hurting your gums. Also, be sure to floss behind the last molar in your mouth to ensure a thorough clean.

6. Don’t Over Do It:

It can be tempting to aggressively brush your teeth to make sure you get them clean. However, using too intense of a motion when brushing can make your teeth more porous and sensitive. Also, overly vigorous brushing can lead to gum recession, which is irreversible.

Be gentle, otherwise, your regular brushing will start to be a hindrance to your overall oral health.

7. Chew Gum:

Although it’s ideal to brush your teeth after each meal, sometimes that’s easier said than done. Keeping a pack of sugar-free gum around can freshen your breath and help get rid of excess food residue in between brushings.

Chewing gum increases saliva production. Saliva’s natural antibacterial properties will help prevent bacteria from feeding off food remnants in your mouth, which can lead to plaque build-up and dental decay.

8. Clean Your Teeth While You Eat:

You already know that sugar and soda can negatively affect your dental health, but did you know there are certain foods that can improve it?

Regularly eating “detergent” foods — firm and crisp foods like raw carrots, apples, celery, and popcorn — can help cut down on plaque. They’re not a substitute for brushing, of course, but if you can’t brush your teeth when you’re finished eating, ending your meal with one of these foods will help keep your oral health in check.

Does This Mean I Can Skip The Dentist Altogether?

Since you know how to better care for your teeth, does that mean you don’t have to visit the dentist anymore? Sadly, no. Regular cleanings from a dental hygienist will help you keep your oral health in check and alert you to potential issues sooner. Remember, the sooner your dentist learns about an issue, the less painful it will be to fix it.

What Happens If You Don’t Prioritize Dental Hygiene?

In addition to getting a tongue lashing from your dentist during your next visit, not prioritizing your dental hygiene can have some pretty serious consequences.

In addition to putting yourself at risk for cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss, poor oral care can also negatively affect your overall health. Your risk of experiencing cardiovascular disease, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, respiratory infections, and diabetic complications all increase when you don’t take good care of your teeth and gums.

If you’re looking to keep your teeth extra clean in between dentist visits, keep the above tips in mind. You’ll feel better, and your dentist will appreciate the extra effort next time you come in for an appointment. Also, don’t forget to stay up-to-date with your cleanings, as it is advised for adults to visit the dentist twice a year. You can schedule your dental cleaning with Holistic Dentist in Durango at any time.

The Importance of Oral Health in Older Adults

It’s well known that oral health is closely linked to overall health, especially when it comes to older adults. As you age, changes occur throughout your body, including in your mouth.

These changes present a set of specific considerations when it comes to oral health in older adults. Although oral health usually falls by the wayside in older adults, regular care of the teeth and gums can offset a host of problems linked to oral care. Here’s what you need to know about oral health in older adults.

Why Oral Care is Important

Poor oral health can compound with other health considerations, especially in older adults. Maintaining a stable oral care regimen is crucial to ensure overall health. Here are a few reasons why oral health should be of particular importance for the elderly.

Infections Can be Deadly

Oral infections can lead to trouble such as pneumonia, root decay, gum disease, and heart disease. Some of these infections, like root decay, are mostly just annoyingly painful, but others, like pneumonia, can be deadly.

Higher Risk of Disease

If you don’t take care of your teeth, your blood sugar levels may go up, potentially leading to diabetes. If you have an infection in your mouth or gums, the bacteria may carry to your lungs or your heart. Good oral hygiene is a great way to reduce the risk of disease.

Dry Mouth

Many older adults take several different medications, many of which can cause dry mouth. The mouth needs saliva to protect the teeth from decay and prevent oral infections. If left untreated, chronic dry mouth can lead to gum disease and cavities. Also, because these conditions make it difficult to eat, you may develop malnutrition.

Gum Disease

23 percent of people between the ages of 65 to 74 have severe gum disease. Gum disease is dangerous, not only because the infection may spread elsewhere in the body, but because it can make eating solids and even drinking fluids painful.

Specific Ailments Linked to Oral Health

Many conditions are closely related to poor oral care. Maintaining a good oral health routine can help older adults treat and possibly eliminate instances of certain illnesses. Here are a few of the most common ailments linked to oral health.

Pneumonia

When you have an infection in your mouth, or when there are remaining particles of food in your mouth, the food and bacteria can be aspirated into the lungs. This process can lead to an infection of the lungs, also known as pneumonia.

Diabetes

Oral infections can make blood sugar levels rise, potentially leading to diabetes. Diabetes is treatable but not curable, so it is important to get regular screenings for oral infection. It’s also important to remember that preexisting diabetes can lead to gum disease, infection, and tooth decay.

Heart Disease

An infection in the mouth can travel to the inner lining of the heart. This condition is known as endocarditis. Although endocarditis can be treated with antibiotics, it does put undue strain on the heart.

Oral Cancer

Oral cancer’s first warning sign is usually a growth or a sore in the mouth that does not heal. This type of cancer is strongly linked to smoking and chewing tobacco. The survival rate of oral cancer is good with early detection.

Hypertension

Having an infection anywhere in the body — including the mouth — can raise blood pressure. Get your blood pressure back to normal by talking to your doctor and your dentist. Your doctor may want to put you on medication for a while until he or she is sure the infection has cleared up, and your blood pressure is under control.

Oral Care for Seniors

Even though your teeth may be more fragile as you age, there are many things you can do to take care of them as well as your mouth and gums. Here are a few tips to help you better care for your teeth.

Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day

If you can afford it, buy an electric toothbrush with round bristles to help with thorough brushing. Some people feel pain when they brush. If you have this problem, consider switching to an anti-sensitivity toothpaste.

Floss Daily

Gently work the dental floss between your teeth using a sawing motion. Remember to floss under the gums. If you’re new to flossing, don’t worry about a little bleeding from the gums. It will stop as your gums get healthier and stronger.

Clean Your Dentures Every Day

Dentures are magnets for bacteria. It’s nearly impossible to reach all the bacteria using a regular toothpaste. Instead, use a liquid formula made especially to clean dentures.

Stop Smoking and Using Chewing Tobacco

Tobacco use significantly increases your risk of oral cancer and can also lead to infections. Getting rid of tobacco can be a challenge, but is also highly beneficial to many aspects of your oral and overall health. If you’re struggling to quit smoking, talk to your doctor about medications that may be able to help you.

Regular Dentist Visits

Your dentist can take x-rays and examine your mouth for any problems such as cavities, receding gum lines or cancer. Once the dentist addresses any area of concern, the dental hygienist will perform a thorough teeth cleaning. Don’t put off seeing the dentist just because you feel okay. Approximately 1 in 5 adults have cavities and don’t even know about it.

Consider Getting Dentures

If you have missing teeth, dentures may be the answer. They are kept in the mouth by an adhesive. Although dentures do have certain drawbacks, they are an excellent option for older adults with weak jaws and unhealthy gums.

Consider Dental Implants

Dental implants are replacement teeth that are surgically implanted into the jaw. The gums and jaw must be strong and healthy for this procedure to work. They can last 20 or more years before needing to be replaced.

Consider Porcelain Veneers

As you age, enamel wears away, making your teeth appear yellow. Porcelain veneers are a good option to restore your pearly whites. Veneers are shells designed to cover the front surface of the teeth and are stain resistant. However, they may not be a good option for people who grind or clench their teeth as they are delicate and may chip or crack. They last anywhere from seven to 15 years before they wear off and need replacement.

Although the elderly tend to have more oral health issues than younger people, a consistent oral care routine and regular visits to Holistic Dentist to keep your mouth healthy. If you are experiencing any specific health ailments linked to oral care, talk to dentist about the best course of action to treat the ailment.

Dental Implants vs. Bridges: Finding What’s Best for You

Losing teeth can have a significant impact on the appearance of your smile while creating functionality issues. It also can put a serious dent in your self-confidence. Two of the most common solutions that dental professionals use to address these problems are dental implants and dental bridges.

While both approaches fundamentally address the same challenges, they present, at a technical level, very different options for you to consider. If you are looking for the right solution for missing teeth, it’s important to understand the treatment options that are available to you. It’s also crucial to gain an understanding of what each entails before deciding if it’s right for your specific needs. Here’s what you need to know about implants and bridges and finding what’s best for you.

What is a Dental Implant?

The underlying structure of a tooth is more complicated than most people appreciate. When this structure — which includes bone, ligaments, and nerves — is removed, the neighboring area slowly begins to deteriorate.

A dental implant replaces this structure with a metal post, typically one made of titanium. Over the period of a couple of months, new bone should grow around the implanted metal. Once the new structure is tested by your dentist and declared secure enough, a crown will then be screwed on top of the implant and sealed into place.

Dental Implant Pros and Cons

One of the biggest advantages of dental implants is they place less of a burden on the surrounding teeth and promote healing of bone structures and gums under the teeth. They also tend to reduce long-term risks posed to the jaw. Generally, a high-quality dental implant should be expected to last a lifetime.

A disadvantage of dental implants is they can be a costly treatment. Especially in cases where a large number of individual teeth need to be replaced in different spots. Even the replacement of a single tooth with an implant can cost several thousand dollars. When trying to replace a particularly large number of teeth, it’s not unusual for dentists to recommend a traditional dental bridge instead of an implant.

Implants also tend to take longer and require multiple procedures to complete. Oral surgery is often required, and your mouth may take months to heal following the initial implant procedure. In all but the most extreme cases, bridge work will typically take no more than a few weeks.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge attaches to the remaining healthy teeth surrounding a gap to create a bridge across the area in a recipient’s smile. In more traditional versions of the procedure, the two teeth on opposite sides of a gap are shaved down to accommodate a bridge.

A cap is then placed over each tooth and is accompanied by the bridge, replacing the missing teeth. In parts of the mouth that can handle less force or where only one tooth is missing, dentists now often use a winged, or Maryland bridge that’s embedded into the neighboring teeth, rather than one that fully caps them.

In some instances, there may not be teeth on both sides of a gap. One approach to this problem is to install what’s called a cantilevered bridge. This type of bridge is attached to a single tooth on one side, and the bridge structure hangs over the gap.

Dental Bridge Pros and Cons

The main advantage of bridges is that they are considered to be one of the most cost-effective methods for replacing missing teeth. Another advantage of bridges is they don’t require bone grafting if bone loss is present. Bridges also offer a quicker process for replacing missing teeth.

One of the biggest disadvantages of bridges is that they place greater strain on surrounding structures, especially the two teeth which are attached to the device. For this reason, a bridge rarely is expected to last a lifetime. Bridges also do not address concerns about underlying structural problems. This means that long-term issues arising from bone loss due to the removal of teeth will continue to advance even after the gap is addressed.

Cantilevered bridges are especially notorious for creating problems. They place a significant amount of stress on the single tooth to which they’re attached. Maryland bridges also often come with problems, due to their minimal amount of attachment and limited capacity to absorb force. Also, if a Maryland bridge is not properly maintained, it may lead to the loss of additional teeth.

Mixed Solutions

In cases where patients have lost a significant number of teeth in a row, it’s not unusual for dentists to recommend a mixed approach.

For example, the loss of all the molars may mean your dentist needs to put in an implant at one end, where there is no longer a tooth. Your dentist may then attach a cap at the other end, creating a bridge from the implant post to the healthy tooth.

Likewise, people who have lost most or all of their teeth in a particular section of their mouths may be good candidates for bridge-like structures that straddle two implant posts.

Will It Be Covered?

It’s important to note that many insurance companies see both dental implants and dental bridges as high-end, costly treatments. However, due to the vast difference in cost between the treatments, most insurance carriers are more likely to pay for a bridge procedure than an implant.

If you are considering treatment for a missing tooth, consider speaking with your insurance provider before deciding on the right option. For most people, cost is one of the most important considerations to make when deciding on what option would be right for you. Talking to your insurance provider can provide helpful information that could assist you in deciding what treatment to move forward with.

Finding The Right Choice for You

The most important thing you can do to ensure you find the right treatment for your missing tooth is to talk to your dentist about what options may be right for you. Your trusted dentist can carefully weight all of the specific considerations of your situation to make the right recommendation for you.

Your dentist will want to provide you with the right solution that will be as gentle as possible while providing years of continued use. Holistic Dentistry in Durango has offices at different locations that can help you address any missing teeth and develop a treatment plant that’s tailored to your needs. Schedule an appointment with an experienced dentist.

9 Tips for Choosing the Best Dental Plan for Your Family

If you’re confused about how to select the right dental plan for your family, you’re not alone. Caring for the dental needs of your household can feel like an overwhelming task at times. Each family is a little different, but protecting the health of your teeth and gums is important at all stages of life. With a little preparation, you can be sure to make a wise decision when it comes to choosing the best dental insurance for your household’s oral healthcare needs. The following tips can give you a great starting point for narrowing down your choices.

Start with Your Current Dentist

f you already have a family dentist that you feel comfortable with, you should inquire about the specific insurance programs the office accepts and which ones they can recommend. If you’re able to find a plan your current dentist supports that also fits well with the needs of your family, you won’t have to switch to a different dental office.

Consider Restrictions Regarding Treatment Options

Some dental plans have restrictions regarding the types of treatments that can be covered. For example, some plans may only cover the most inexpensive form of treatment possible, even if the dentist feels another approach may provide a better outcome. Also, if you need specialty work done, these services may not be covered. Be sure to carefully analyze the complete list of covered treatments for each plan you consider.

Keep in Mind All Costs

Many people primarily think about the monthly premium when considering a dental insurance plan. However, they might fail to consider the deductibles, co-pays, and other expenses involved. It’s important to have an open discussion about all the fees involved in each plan. If your deductible is too high to reach, even the most affordable premium may not be right for you. Also, keep in mind it can be beneficial to just pay cash for your dental needs. There are many options when it comes to finding the best dental savings plans for your family.

Consider the Dental Network of Each Plan

As you look into different options, be sure to explore the network of dentists involved with each plan. Some dental plans will limit you to specific dental professionals. Other plans will allow you to choose the dentist you’d prefer to see. Depending on if you want expanded options when it comes to choosing your dentist, plans such as a PPO may be more beneficial. Options may also differ somewhat according to your geographical area.

Check Availability in Your Zip Code

If you don’t want to be traveling a long distance just to see a dental professional, it might be the easiest to begin with a local search based on your zip code. A quick online search can let you know what dental plans are available in your immediate geographical area. It will also alert you to important information regarding each plan’s specific coverage and network. If location is a major factor, this is the best way to start your search.

Obtain Multiple Online Quotes

There are many online tools that can help narrow your search for the right dental plan. Some websites offer more specific searches designed to compare various dental plans. It is best to ask for written quotes from several different plan providers, as this will allow you to carefully compare the full costs of each one. It’s also important to make a list of the dental services your family requires and use it as a guideline. To compare the plans head to head, you’ll need to use similar criteria to really know which is best for your family.

Analyze Your Family Dynamics

Do you have young children? Do you plan to become pregnant in the next few years? The specific dynamics of your family will play a huge role in determining the dental plan that is best suited for you. Young children often need additional services such as fluoride treatments and frequent professional cleanings. Adolescents or young adults might eventually need braces or similar procedures. Your own dental needs may change during pregnancy. These are all important factors to consider when choosing a dental plan.

Keep in Mind Leisure Activities

Do any members of your household engage in high-risk sports such as football or hockey? If so, you might be at a higher risk of experiencing dental emergencies that can occur with high-impact sports or hobbies. Sports enthusiasts may also need access to professional mouthguards and other protective gear. Always inquire about the procedures involved in gaining proper treatment for dental emergencies and the degree of coverage needed for the extra expenses.

Consider Group Dental or Savings Plans

Dentists Durango support group dental plans that can be a huge source of additional savings for many families. These plans require that you pay a fee to join a group that allows access to specific discounted rates for some dental services. In many cases, these savings plans do not cover all types of dental treatments. However, they are worth looking into for many patients that need to save additional money on their dental care.

We all get just one set of teeth to carry us through all of our life adventures. Protecting the long-term health of your family’s teeth and gums is likely very important to you. This can be especially true if you have young children in your household. The tips listed above have been designed to help you select a dental plan that can address the oral health needs of your entire family. By following these tips, you can easily choose an effective and affordable dental insurance option near you.

5 Ways Dental Implants Can Improve Oral Health

When one or more teeth are removed, a patient is faced with the decision of which replacement option will be the most advantageous for his or her situation. Aside from dentures or dental bridges, dental implants are an excellent replacement choice for multiple reasons. If you’re thinking about getting implants and wondering how they compare to other options, consider these five benefits associated with maintaining the best oral health with dental implants.

Dental Implants Provide Better Comfort and Functionality

Dental implants are designed to be a permanent solution for patients with missing teeth. In contrast, dentures are designed to fit over the gums and are removed and replaced regularly. Even with a great fit and using the right type of adhesive to reduce friction and keep the denture plates in position, irritation is a common complaint.

Once installed, dental implants are made to function just as natural teeth because the artificial titanium root is implanted into the jaw bone, eventually fusing. This procedure provides a durable anchor for the replacement tooth that will most likely last the rest of your life. The result is a more natural feel when chewing or speaking without any pain caused by friction or irritation.

The same features that allow implants to provide a greater level of comfort also make it possible to enjoy increased functionality. Since the dental implants are embedded in the sockets, they will not shift or move. This makes it all the easier to bite, chew food, and speak clearly without having to worry about slippage or other issues that may be a concern with other replacement options.

Dental Implants Do Not Require Special Maintenance

The permanency of dental implants makes such a difference with your daily dental hygiene routine. Because dental implants are fused to the jawbone and remain in position, caring for them is a lot like caring for your natural teeth. You will still brush your teeth regularly and use mouthwash whenever you like. However, you won’t have to learn new cleaning techniques or add extra steps to your routine, allowing you to keep up with your dental hygiene more easily. The regular removal of plaque and bacteria from your mouth results in much better oral health.

Flossing is something you will want to discuss with your dentist. Some recommend doing so with a little extra caution because the cementum layer that exists at the point where a natural tooth extrudes from the gum does not exist with an implant. For this reason, dentists who do recommend flossing will advise patients be careful when running the dental floss against the gum line.

Dental Implants Preserve Bone Density

When a tooth is extracted, there is an empty socket and bone left behind. The part of the bone that surrounded that tooth will begin to degenerate and weaken with time if there is nothing there to support it. Eventually, the jawbone will reduce in size and lose overall density which can lead to a whole slew of issues. In order to prevent the bone from deteriorating, dental implants can be used to fortify the area and support a replacement for the missing tooth.

This is important since a loss of jaw bone density translates into an increased risk of breakage. You will need to be more careful in terms of avoiding direct hits to the lower part of the face and consuming certain types of crunchy or hard foods. Without a dental implant in place, you also run the risk of having your other teeth shifting and becoming misaligned. This could affect everything from the way you chew to the shape and contour of your facial structure. With dental implants, you avoid the loss of bone density and shifting of other teeth because the implant fills the empty socket and fuses with the jaw bone permanently.

Reducing the Risk of Tooth and Gum Disease

Think for a moment about what can happen to the natural teeth surrounding an empty socket where a tooth was extracted. More of these teeth are exposed to bacteria that could lead to decay. At the same time, the socket could provide one more point of entry for bacteria to get into the gum tissue. The result could be inflamed tissue and gum disease that’s quite painful, as well as detrimental to your oral health.

Dental bridges and dentures often provide more hard-to-reach areas for bacteria to build up. In fact, dentures may even cause irritation and broken skin that could create a breeding ground for bacteria and infection if not cleaned properly. However, once a dental implant has healed completely, the empty socket is no longer exposed, and the teeth and areas between the teeth can be cleaned easily.

Self-Confidence and Your Oral Health

There’s a clear connection between self-confidence and practicing good oral hygiene. When a person feels healthy and confident in their appearance, they’re more likely to take self-care more seriously. Regarding aesthetics, dental implants offer a more natural and comfortable appearance for those with missing teeth. This is often a significant boost for patients who are embarrassed by their smiles due to having a missing tooth for a while.

As a result, practicing a thorough oral hygiene routine becomes a priority for many patients who are given a second chance at a beautiful and complete smile. Dental implants provide this opportunity while also allowing people to eat and speak more confidently.

Indirectly, dental implants also help to improve the ability of your body to absorb vitamins and minerals. That’s because you can chew more efficiently with implants. Your body is able to break down the food and harvest those nutrients. Just as those nutrients benefit other areas of the body, they also help to keep teeth and gums healthy.

Before making any decisions about replacing natural teeth, talk with a dental professional to see what option will work best for you. As with any dental procedure, success could depend on several factors that you and your dentist will need to consider. If dental implants seem like the ideal option, your oral health will also benefit in ways in which other replacements may not offer. Consult with Holistic Dentist in Durango to take dental implant treatment.