Month: August 2013

According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, approximately 42,000 people will be diagnosed with oral cancer in the United States in 2013. The key to preventing deaths from oral cancer is catching it early. Dentist now routinely include oral cancer screening in their exams.

The following areas are included in the oral cavity:

• Lips
• Cheeks
• Gums
• Salivary glands
• Front of tongue
• Underneath the tongue
• Roof of the mouth
• Back of tongue
• Throat/Tonsils
• Teeth

If you notice a sore or irritation that doesn’t go away on its own after two weeks or any of the following other possible symptoms of oral cancer, it is important to notify your dentist immediately:

1) mouth or lip discomfort or numbness

2) red /white patches

3) difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking

4) problems moving tongue or jaw

5) a change in your bite

Contributing Factors

People who smoke or drink alcohol excessively, and are older than 50, are most at risk for oral cancer. Researchers have identified a link between the human papilloma virus (HPV), and oral cancers at the bases of the tongue or close to the tonsils. These areas are difficult to see and can be hard to identify. Cancers in HPV positive adults tend to have a lower rate of death than cancers in HPV negative adults.

Treatment

The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research suggest ways you can keep your mouth moist during treatment of oral cancer, including:

• Drinking water
• Sucking on ice chips
• Chewing sugarless gum
• Sucking on sugar-free hard candy
• Using a saliva substitute

It is also important to keep your mouth clean by brushing your teeth, gums, and tongue after each meal with a fluoride toothpaste or gel prescribed by your dentist. You should also floss carefully unless the area bleeds or is very sore. Rinsing with baking soda and salt mixed in warm water can also be soothing.

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Original Source: https://www.craigarmstrongdds.com/cleanings-and-prevention/all-about-oral-cancer

 

A canker sore is small ulcer or sore in the mouth. They are usually yellow or white. Canker sores can cause a lot of discomfort and  make it difficult to talk or eat.  Although they are frequently confused for cold sores or fever blisters, canker sores are not the same thing. Cold sores are highly contagious and found outside the mouth while canker sores are located inside the mouth.

It’s unclear what causes canker sores. However they appear to be linked to stress in some people. It’s not uncommon to develop canker sores from braces or dentures, or from eating acidic foods like citrus fruits. There may be a correlation between a deficiency in vitamin B-12, zinc, folic acid, or iron. Some people with Crohn’s disease or Celiac’s disease frequently develop canker sores.

Symptoms

Common canker sore symptoms include a tingling prior to the appearance of small red bumps that turn into an open ulcer. Though not common, some people suffer from general malaise and fever or develop swollen lymph nodes.

Treatment

Discomfort usually takes about a week to go away although the sore can take up to three weeks to heal completely. Avoid eating hot or spicy foods which can cause irritation. There are over-the-counter canker sore medications that can be soothing when applied directly to the sore.

The National Institute of Health (NIH) also recommends the following two home remedies:

Combine equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and water. Apply with a cotton swap to the sore. Then dab Milk of Magnesia to the sore 3-4 times daily.

Combine equal parts of Milk of Magnesia and Benadryl liquid allergy medicine. Swish in your mouth for 1 minute and spit.

If sores are very large or symptoms are particularly unpleasant then your dentist may prescribe one of the following to make you more comfortable:

• antimicrobial mouth rinse
• corticosteroid treatment
• prescription solution

Prevention

If you notice that the sores are spreading or lasting for more than three weeks then call your dentist. The best prevention is to brush and floss regularly to keep infections at bay and see your dentist regularly.

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Original Source: https://www.craigarmstrongdds.com/cleanings-and-prevention/how-to-treat-canker-sores

 

Spend the evening  showing off that smile, laughing away with The Oddball Comedy & Curiosity Festival, presented by Funny or Die. The event features Dave Chapelle, Flight of the Conchords, Al Madrigal, Brody Steven, Chris D’Elia, Demetri Martin, Hannibal Buress, Jim Jefferies, John Mulaney, Kristen Schaal and many others.

The event travels to 13 cities, including Houston. The Oddball Comedy & Curiosity Festival is at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion on Saturday, August 24th at 6:30 p.m. You will have the opportunity to see street performers and psychics, visit vendors, and enjoy tasty treats.

Tickets start at $30 for lawn seats and are available by calling (281) 363-3300 or visiting the Woodlands Center website.

Original Source: https://www.craigarmstrongdds.com/houston-news-and-events/a-reason-to-show-off-your-smile

 

The nerve of a tooth is called the dental pulp. When that pulp, which is in the center of each tooth, gets infected it becomes an abscess. An abscess usually occurs when the bacteria from an untreated cavity spreads deep into the tooth. It can also occur when there is a cracked or broken tooth that exposes the dental pulp to bacteria. Some people get an abscess after getting a crown or very large filling because the nerve can be exposed to bacteria in the mouth.

Symptoms

The symptoms of an abscess are not pleasant. They can include the following:

• discomfort when chewing
• a dull throb
• swelling of the gums or jaw
• fever
• foul-smelling breath
• bitter taste in mouth
• inflamed gums
• open sore on the gums

Diagnosis

A dentist usually diagnoses an abscess after a patient complains of symptoms. There may be visual signs present or the dentist may do an x-ray to confirm the abscess. Your dentist may ask you to bite down to check for discomfort.

Treatment

Sometimes your dentist may put you on an antibiotic to prevent the infection from spreading. Your dentist may do a root canal to remove the root and clean and treat the area. Then a crown will be placed over the tooth. In some cases an extraction may be necessary to drain the socket before placing a bridge over the area.

In addition, you can apply a warm compress. Rinsing with salt water can also be helpful. Your dentist may suggest an anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen to stop the swelling.

Complications

It’s very important to see your dentist if you suspect an abscess. An untreated abscess can lead to cellulitis or a severe infection. Signs of such an infection can include malaise, fever, swollen lymph nodes and draining sinuses. If you have trouble swallowing or difficulty breathing, then seek immediate medical attention. Ludwig’s angina is a very serious infection that causes bilateral swelling of the mandible and may require hospitalization.

An abscess can be very uncomfortable. However your dentist can clean out the area and prescribe antibiotics to stop the infection quickly. Before you know it you will be back to normal. Seeing your dentist regularly can prevent tooth decay from turning into a serious issue down the line.

Original Source: https://www.craigarmstrongdds.com/oral-surgery/ouch-you-have-an-abscess

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If you have had a fractured tooth then the fracture may have been clearly visible in x-rays. However, that is not always the case. When there is a fracture below the gum line that is small enough then it may not show up in your x-rays. That is called cracked tooth syndrome.

Cracked tooth syndrome is usually occurs in lower molars, which are most impacted from chewing. It is also common in people who grind their teeth or clench them often. It can also occur when your normal bite puts too much pressure on the opposing tooth.

If you have teeth with large fillings or a tooth that needed a root canal then it is more likely that you will end up with cracked tooth syndrome. Unfortunately if you have one cracked tooth then you can easily have more.

Symptoms

Possible symptoms include:

• discomfort when chewing some foods
• discomfort when biting a certain way
• sensitivity to cold temperatures
• loose tooth

Diagnosis

It can be difficult for a dentist to diagnose cracked tooth syndrome because you can’t necessarily see the crack in an x-ray. He or she will examine your mouth, using an explorer to inspect the tooth and gums. There is a special instrument that can be used to test the tooth. It resembles a toothbrush and sits over part of your tooth as you bite down. If you feel discomfort then the dentist will suspect a crack.

Your dentist may also stain the tooth with a special dye to locate the crack or shine a fiber-optic light on it to make a diagnosis. It may be necessary to remove a filling or crown if there is one covering the tooth.

Treatment

There are different types of cracks. If the crack splits into the root and affects the pulp then there can be more discomfort. In that case you may need a root canal. Cracked teeth can also be treated by adding a crown. There are times when it may be necessary to extract the tooth and replace it with a bridge or implant.

Prevention

Your dentist can work with you to treat teeth grinding and clenching so make sure to let he or she know if that is an issue.

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Original Source: https://www.craigarmstrongdds.com/cosmetic-dentistry/what-is-cracked-tooth-syndrome

 

The American Dental Association (ADA) suggest that you visit your dentist every six months for an exam and cleaning. It’s always helpful to know what it going to happen during a dental visit. Understanding what to expect from a dental exam can also significantly reduce anxiety.

Meeting with the Dental Hygienist

X-Ray

Your dental hygienist will take x-rays so that the dentist has a clear picture of your teeth and bone levels. X-rays help the dentist identify problem areas between your teeth that are not visible to the naked eye. If it is your first visit you will have a complete set of x-rays taken. During subsequent visits you will only need x-rays taken of suspicious areas.

Cleaning and Polishing

The hygienist will check your gums for signs of gum disease. Then he or she will remove plaque and tartar from your teeth by doing a thorough cleaning. If you have significant calculus on your teeth then you may require a deeper cleaning called root planing and scaling to prevent gum disease. After your teeth are cleaned the hygienist will polish your teeth.

During the cleaning process the hygienist will go over proper brushing and flossing techniques and alert you to areas of your mouth that need special attention. This is a good time to ask any questions you may have about how to best take care of your teeth.

Meeting with the Dentist

Exam

The dentist will review your x-rays and then do a complete exam. During the exam your dentist will be looking for:

Gum Disease

The dentist will also check for signs of gum disease, taking into account what the dental hygienist found during your cleaning.

Tooth Decay

The dentist will probe your mouth, looking for visible signs of tooth decay and signs of future problems.

Dental Restoration Issues

Your dental restorations will be checked for cracks or damage that signal the need for replacement.

Oral Cancer Signs

An oral cancer screening includes checking the soft tissues of the mouth such as your tongue and cheeks for abnormalities. If necessary a biopsy will be scheduled.

TMJ Symptoms

The dentist will look for misalignment of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and ask whether you have had any discomfort in the area.

Once your dentist has completed the exam, he or she will make treatment recommendations and help you explore your options. Depending on the issue, you may be referred to a specialist. If everything looks good then your dentist will have you return in 6 months for your next cleaning. In the meantime it is up to you to take care of your teeth by brushing and flossing regularly.

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Eating a nutritious diet keeps your whole body healthy, including your smile. Most people are aware of how the consistency of certain foods can be dangerous to teeth. For example, hard candies can chip or crack your teeth and some types of chewing gum can pull out fillings and other dental restorations.

You also need to be careful about:

• Foods high in sugar which can erode tooth enamel and cause cavities
• Starchy foods which convert quickly to sugar
• Sweets that sit on your teeth for long periods like hard candies and caramels

The Best Foods

It’s also important to choose foods that will promote good dental health. There are a variety of foods that can yield positive results. Here are five categories to look for:

1. Calcium and Vitamin D

Foods high in calcium and Vitamin D strengthen both your teeth and bones, protecting you from tooth loss.

2. Fruits and Veggies

Fruits and veggies help remove plaque from your teeth because you make saliva from all of the chewing they require. They also contribute to fresh breath.

• Folic acid in fruits and vegetables supports cell growth in your entire body
• Vitamin C in fruits and vegetables protects your gums from infection
• Vitamin A in fruits and vegetables strengthens tooth enamel

3. Xylitol

Not all gum is bad for your teeth. Xylitol is an artificial sweetener found in some gum that is actually recommended by many dentists. It keeps the harmful bacteria in plaque from metabolizing sugar. That means it keeps harmful acids from damaging your tooth enamel.

4. Water

Water is great for your mouth. Just make sure it has fluoride- many bottled waters don’t. Chances are that your tap water does. An estimated 67 percent of homes in the United States have tap water with the proper levels of fluoride for preventing tooth decay. Fluoride actually adds minerals to your teeth to reverse damage caused by enamel-stripping acids.

5. Spices

Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory. If you have irritated gums, eating foods served with ginger can help. Basil reduces bacteria in the mouth, acting as a natural antibiotic. Cocoa is also a natural inflammatory.

Eating well is essential for your body’s total health and that includes your teeth. Don’t forget to brush and floss daily to keep your teeth clean and free of plaque. Also visit your dentist for your scheduled check-ups and tooth cleanings for a continued healthy smile.

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Original Source:https://www.craigarmstrongdds.com/cleanings-and-prevention/the-role-of-nutrition-in-a-healthy-smile

 

When you meet someone with a bright, white smile it’s impossible not to notice. Beautiful teeth can change a person’s entire demeanor. If you have ever wondered if it’s possible for you to have a stunning smile too, you will be happy to know that it is. Your dentist can whiten your teeth to give you a remarkable smile that other people will notice

The Teeth Whitening Process

Teeth whitening is very popular with many patients. Whether your teeth are stained from medication, excessive fluoride, or a worn outer tooth layer, you can get dramatic results with this non-invasive treatment. You can whiten your teeth at home after two short visits to your dentist’s office.

1) During your first visit the dentist will take impressions of your teeth. These molds are needed to design the custom-shaped clear plastic trays used in the treatment.

2) You will try on the trays in the dentist chair so the fit can be checked and adjusted if necessary. The dentist will also give you a special whitening solution to use in the trays.

3) Depending on your dentist’s instructions, you will either wear the trays twice a day for 30 minutes or overnight for the next several weeks.

While you may notice some sensitivity in the beginning it will soon go away. Teeth whitening only works on tooth enamel, not dental restorations. However your dentist can replace your restorations to match the shade you prefer. The results can last several years. However, smoking and drinking coffee may make it necessary to repeat the treatment sooner as they can stain your teeth.

What You Can Do

There are things you can do to maintain a stunning smile:

• Use a Straw

If you drink soda or iced tea, use a straw. It can be a good way to keep the staining agents away from the tooth enamel.

• Eat Your Vegetables

Many vegetables require excessive chewing which creates saliva which neutralized the acids in your mouth.

• Brush Your Teeth

Brushing your teeth twice and a day and flossing regularly will remove the plaque that attracts stains.

Of course to keep your smile bright you should visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning. That will ensure that you have a stunning smile for a long time to come.

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Original Source: https://www.craigarmstrongdds.com/cosmetic-dentistry/secrets-of-a-stunning-smile