Author: mel

cosmetic dentistry

How to Get Your Dream Teeth for Less

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Popular and Inexpensive Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

Cosmetic dentistry is often considered to be a high-priced luxury that only celebrities can afford. The truth is that there are some options available that can give you the same looks for much less. 

 

Composite Bonding

Chances are you already know about dental veneers. These porcelain covers for the front of your teeth give people a great Hollywood smile – but they are very costly.

You can get the same effect with composite bonding, which is basically the same material used to create white fillings. It often requires little or no removal of tooth enamel and it is applied one layer at a time, and then shaped, hardened, and polished. It is usually completed in just one appointment.

Although they do not last as long as veneers, they also can correct many problems such as chipped teeth, cracked teeth, discolored teeth, and even slightly misaligned teeth. They can also fill in gaps between teeth. It will normally last between 5-7 years.

 

Teeth Whitening

Another cosmetic effect you can get at a lower price is teeth whitening. Instead of paying in-office teeth whitening prices, some dentists will give you take-home chemicals that are much stronger than you can get in the store. This means you can get your teeth whiter than you could with store-bought kits.

Dentists have several options that can help you get your dream teeth, and some of it is affordable. Talk to your dentist about alternative methods for great teeth.

Cosmetic dentistry offers a way for people with bad to ordinary teeth to be able to get great teeth. There are several procedures that make it possible and it really is amazing what can be done with these techniques. While some of the techniques are very expensive, other dental cosmetic procedures are much less expensive, enabling you to get the smile makeover you always wanted. 

 

Dental Veneers

Getting a new set of dental veneers is going to be one of the most expensive procedures available, but it will give you a great set of teeth. Instead of paying the high price of veneers, you can get the same effect with composite bonding, also called dental bonding and composite veneers. This procedure will often be about half the cost of porcelain veneers. 

Composite bonding will also give you the advantage of getting a great set of teeth possibly in just one appointment. With porcelain veneers, you may need to go back two or three times. 

Dental bonding can fix many different types of tooth problems. They can correct problems that you have with chipped teeth, slightly misaligned teeth, cracked teeth, or discolored teeth. It can also be used to close spaces between teeth. 

  • The Difference 

Composite bonding differs from porcelain veneers in that the porcelain version is much more durable. A porcelain veneer will typically last about 15 years with care, but a composite veneer will normally last between 5 – 7 years – up to 10 years.

A porcelain veneer has to be made in a lab, and they are difficult to repair. Composite bonding is the same material used for white fillings. It is applied one layer at a time directly on the tooth and then shaped, hardened, and polished. It can easily be repaired when damaged. 

A composite veneer can do wonders for your teeth, but it will not quite have the natural look of a veneer made of porcelain. Unlike porcelain veneers, one made of composite material often does not need any tooth material removed in preparation. This makes the procedure reversible, but it usually is not reversible with porcelain veneers. 

  • Care Needed

A porcelain veneer is made of a harder substance than a composite bond. Both types of veneers require certain care and both will chip or can break. The composite bonding, however, is softer and will require more care. The composite material may also stain more easily than the porcelain version.

 

Teeth Whitening

One thing that is easily noticed when you see a celebrity smile is that they have amazingly white teeth. It certainly does catch people’s attention. If you get a professional teeth whitening in-office at the dentist’s, it will cost a considerable chunk of change. 

The advantage of having it done in-office is that you will be able to get the whitest teeth in the shortest amount of time. You also will not be able to get them as white any other way. The in-office teeth bleaching version can make teeth a much as six shades whiter in just one visit. 

A less expensive way to get teeth whitening that is better than the store-bought kits is to get professional chemicals from the dentist. Some dentists will make these chemicals available with trays if you get teeth cleaning first. This method will give you whiter teeth than store-bought kits by a couple of shades, and it will not cost near as much as an in-office teeth whitening session. 

 

Dental Crowns

When teeth are damaged or decayed, it can be unsightly – depending on which tooth it is. If the tooth becomes significantly damaged, an extraction may be needed. Tooth loss can cause problems because neighboring teeth tend to move toward the gap, causing misalignment of teeth and bone loss. 

If the visible portion of the tooth only is damaged, it may be able to be repaired by putting a crown on it. This can save you money because it will be less expensive than a dental implant and much less complicated.

Crowns are made of a variety of different materials, enabling you to get one that you can afford. Some dentists can put a new crown on your tooth in the same visit. They may have a milling machine right in the office. They simply use a scanner to provide the needed details. If they do not have the machine, it will have to be made in a lab and you will need to return when it is ready. 

With several options available that can give you high quality dream teeth at a low cost, what better time is there to make the move toward a better smile. Champion Dental Clinic is there to help you achieve 

smoking and tooth loss

Can This Habit Make You Live Without Teeth?

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Smoking causes gum disease leading to ultimate tooth loss

Smoking is still very popular today and it does not look like it will go away anytime soon. While the warnings of cancer have been touted for a long time, many people are not yet aware that another one of the dangers of smoking is that it will also cause them to lose their pretty smile. It will cause smokers to lose teeth. 

 

The Statistics

If you smoke, there is twice as much risk that you will lose more teeth than a non-smoker. Non-smokers tend to lose teeth at a rate of 1.3 teeth every 10 years. Smokers lose teeth faster – at a rate of 2.9 teeth every 10 years. This rate is true of men and women. Once an individual quits smoking, the risk of losing teeth will decrease. 

 

The Reason

Teeth are lost as a result of smoking because of the effect that nicotine has on the gums. It is believed that nicotine reduces the flow of blood into the gums by restricting the blood vessels. This affects the gums in two ways. First, it means that the gums will receive less oxygen; and secondly, it means that as a result, the gums will also receive fewer nutrients. 

With less oxygen and nutrients, your gum’s immune system cannot be as effective. In fact, the cells in the gums will start dying off causing them to recede. The weakened immune system cannot fight off infection as effectively, which means that when you receive any dental treatment or other injuries to the gums that it will take longer to heal. You also become much more susceptible to gum disease. 

 

Gum Disease

Gum disease starts by irritation of the gums from the bacteria naturally found in your mouth and from the acid it produces. The bacteria get into the gums and it starts an immune reaction. The only two symptoms that will be seen at first are inflamed gums and gums that bleed. This is gingivitis.

With the lower resistance from your immune system, the gum disease will quickly become periodontitis. Before long the immune system starts to attack your gums, the ligaments that support your teeth, and your jawbone. Periodontitis will spread fast and become worse than in a non-smoker. 

As the attack continues, your teeth will start to become loose. Gum disease is largely painless until your teeth start to get loose. At that point, it will be painful to bite down with that tooth. 

 

Men vs. Women

Men who smoke are typically going to lose teeth faster than women. Men who smoke are 3.6 times more likely to experience tooth loss, but women are 2.5 times more likely to lose teeth. 

 

Hiding Gum Disease

One of the gum disease symptoms is bleeding of the gums. Since smoking reduces blood flow, you may not notice early on that you have gum disease. This will enable it to do more damage to your gums and jawbone.

Your dentist may also not notice that you have gum disease. This could lead the dentist to not realize how serious the problem is, which may mean that treatment may not be given – leading to worse problems and greater tooth loss. 

 

Other Potential Risks

In recent years, researchers have discovered that there is yet another nasty side to gum disease. They have found that the damage from gum disease can affect all of your organs. Once the bacteria and inflammation get into your gums, it has access to your bloodstream. Now it can go anywhere in your body. 

As it travels through your bloodstream, it tends to build up in your blood vessels and various organs. This buildup can cause many serious illnesses, including cardiovascular disease, stroke, heart attacks, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, dementia, several types of cancer, and many more. 

 

Cancer Risk

Another one of the risks of smoking is that of developing oral cancer. The weakened immune system cannot fight cancer cells as easily as they would in a healthy mouth, possibly leading to oral cancer. This type of cancer normally spreads fast and they are not always easily detected. Early detection is important to increased survivability rates. 

 

Reversing the Risk

Studies have discovered that the more you smoke, the more teeth you are going to lose. Those who smoke heavily are going to lose more teeth than those people who smoke less. Once you stop smoking, your risk can decrease rather fast, possibly even reducing your risk to the same level as someone who never smoked – but reaching that level could take ten years. 

 

If you are a smoker and are looking for gum disease treatment for periodontitis, as well as help with cavities, you can get help from Champion Dental Clinic, Farmers Branch, Texas 

How to Keep a Fresher, Younger, and Sexier Smile

How to Keep a Fresher, Younger, and Sexier Smile

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Anti-Aging Tricks for an Everlasting Smile

A healthy smile is something that grabs immediate attention. As you get older, fighting some of the symptoms of aging will be an ongoing battle. Instead of buying various cosmetics & other materialistic products that must be applied every day or week, there is another way that you can keep some of these symptoms at bay for years.

It is always suggested to have a routine dental checkup done each quarter or on a half-yearly basis. The procedures are less complex and will make you keep that healthy dental smile and look younger, too. Getting some cosmetic dentistry may give you the best anti-aging secrets that others will want to know about. So, some of the trending healthy smile dental methods are given below. Could you go through it and choose wisely?  

Ways To Maintain a Healthy Smile For A Long Time

There are several methods that may help you to get the best smile on your face. A few of them are listed below. Grab an insight into all of them and pick one of the methods for maintaining a younger smile. 

Teeth Whitening

Other people around you will notice your smile – especially if it is white. However, if it is yellow, it makes you look older, and you may try and hide your teeth. After a point, you may not even be aware of it, but it will make your smile not look natural.  The best place to get teeth whitening is from a dentist. Instead of only getting one or two shades brighter from kits at the store, dentists can give you whiter teeth by as much as five or six shades in just one appointment. When teeth are made that much lighter, it will make your smile look younger. 

Replace Metal Fillings

Along with teeth whitening, exchanging your metal fillings for white ones would be a good idea. Tooth-colored fillings are nearly invisible and will make your teeth look even better. Metal fillings also make you look older, and if you have had them for some time, it may be a good idea to replace them.

Putting Braces On

If you have had crooked teeth for some time and would like them to look better, the dentist can give you straight teeth – no matter how old you are. Today, even some older movie stars, such as Faye Dunaway at 61, wear traditional braces to correct their teeth.

Adult braces now come in different styles and colors. You can even get them in white, making them almost invisible – except when people are close. Invisalign aligners are another way to get teeth straightened. These removable plastic pieces perform the same job as braces, but they are invisible. Another great benefit is that they let you eat what you want and clean your teeth like you usually do. 

Dental Veneers

When you want great-looking teeth quickly, and a smile to match, getting dental veneers applied to your teeth will give you a Hollywood smile. These porcelain covers for the front of your teeth look natural and will make you look younger. 

If you have got problems with your teeth that you want to hide, this is the way to go. It can cover up teeth that are chipped, discolored, short, misshapen, or even if there is a space between your teeth, it can correct those issues – and a few more. Newer veneer styles require very little or no removal of your tooth enamel. Veneers must be developed in a lab, so you will need to make at least two appointments at the dentist’s office. They can be made to match the color of your natural teeth. The life expectancy of veneers is about 15 years or longer with good care. 

Dental Crowns

If the crowns of some of your teeth are damaged or deformed, you can replace them with crowns that are natural tooth color. Various types of crowns are available that will certainly enhance your smile.

Dental Implants

Missing teeth can also be replaced. Dental implants are a great way to replace lost teeth, and you do not need to bother about them coming loose when you talk and eat. Removable versions are also available. Dental implants are surgically placed into your gums and can also help prevent the natural drifting of teeth into a space. This will also help keep your teeth aligned, and it will also help preserve your bone under that vacancy. 

Receding Gums

If you have receding gums, this can be corrected with gum surgery. Of course, if you have any gum disease, this problem would need to be treated first. Gum disease can cause you to lose your teeth and may also cause many other potential health problems. Gum grafts can lengthen your gums and shorten the appearance of your teeth, giving you a younger-looking smile. It will offer you the advantage of protecting the roots of your teeth.

How to Retain Your Healthy Smile Longer?

Keeping your smile looking good to fight aging may also require some lifestyle changes. You will need to quit smoking and drinking alcohol – which promotes gum disease and eat a healthy diet – with less sugar. 

Cosmetic dentistry can give you a healthy smile, and it will also make you look younger. You will likely be quite surprised at the difference it can make.

Why You Should Avoid Sugar Before Bed to Keep Teeth Healthy

Why You Should Avoid Sugar Before Bed to Keep Teeth Healthy

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Eating Before Sleeping Without Brushing Your Teeth Is Bad

When it comes to your teeth, there is no doubt that sugar is one of the worst substances for your dental health. Although everyone loves its sweet taste and often find it difficult to get enough of it in candy, sodas, and desserts, it can easily damage your teeth and gums. If you want healthy teeth, you will want to avoid eating sugar if you are going to bed and not brushing your teeth. 

 

Sweets and Your Teeth

Many people enjoy eating comfort foods before going to bed. Besides the effects of sugar giving you an extra burst of energy when you are trying to go to sleep, leaving it on your teeth overnight will lead to tooth decay and faster cavities. 

When you eat a snack before going to bed and do not brush your teeth, it will lead to damaged enamel on your teeth. This will lead to problems because you cannot regrow tooth enamel. You will need to go to a dentist to repair it. 

 

The Problem with Sugar

There are more than 500 types of bacteria that are naturally found in your mouth. When your mouth is healthy, the bacteria – good and bad – are normally kept in balance. 

When the bad bacteria consume sugar, it will produce acid as a result. It is this acid that causes cavities and gum disease. It erodes the enamel from your teeth, causing the enamel to grow thinner, leading first to sensitive teeth, then to cavities.

Brushing your teeth at least twice a day helps to reduce the amount of acid that stays on your teeth, protecting them for a while. Of course, the layer of bacteria that is always forming on your teeth – called plaque – will slowly rebuild through the day and night. 

Your saliva naturally helps to control the bacteria and acid, too, and it helps to wash it away from your teeth. It does not wash it all away. If you have dry mouth, which can be caused by medications, alcohol, and some diseases, you need to ensure that you stay hydrated. When you have insufficient amounts of saliva and do not stay hydrated, you will develop cavities much faster as the bacteria multiply more than usual and produce more acid. You will also be very likely to develop gum disease and it will also progress faster than usual. You naturally produce less saliva at night.

 

Not Brushing Your Teeth

If you eat something with sugar in it, or carbs, before going to bed and do not brush your teeth, you already have a considerable amount of plaque on your teeth from the day. Now that you have given the bacteria and acid a head start, they will now continue to produce even more – causing even more dental erosion. 

The same bacteria can also cause gum disease. This is because the acid irritates the gums. The more bacteria and acid there is, the more irritation there will be. Soon, an autoimmune reaction will start, and you have gum disease. Maintaining good oral hygiene can help keep these bacteria under control and it will reduce its effects on your teeth.

 

Tips for Keeping Sugar Off Your Teeth

Sugar comes in many forms and you may not even be aware of some of them. Even the smallest amounts of sugar can give some bacteria enough to produce acid on your teeth. Another thing you must know is that every time that this bacterium consumes sugar it will produce acid for the next 20 minutes. 

This is also true for every sip of a sugary drink, such as soda, specialty coffees or tea, or fruit juice. If you are going to be sipping on a sweet drink all day long, you are exposing your teeth to acid all day long. Besides the acid that the bacteria produce, there is going to be additional acid in some of these drinks. Coffee, tea, wine, fruit juice, and others have their own acid your teeth will have to contend with. Diet sodas, even though they may not have sugar in them, they have acid – as do most sodas.

  • Limit Sugary Drinks to Meals – Because of the acid and sugar in many drinks, it is a good idea to limit yourself to drinking it at a meal. Once the meal is complete, be sure to rinse your mouth out with water, and brush your teeth later. During the day, when you need a drink, drink water.
  • Avoid Sticky Foods – Foods that will stick between your teeth, such as potato chips, soft candy, breads, etc., will get stuck between your teeth. This enables the bacteria to multiply and produce acid longer – on your teeth. 
  • Brush Twice a Day and Floss – While you want to brush after meals, you should wait about 20 minutes or more before brushing. The enamel on your teeth is softened from your meal, which can cause you to lose some microscopic pieces of your enamel if you brush too soon. 

 

You can enjoy your smile longer if you reduce sugar to help maintain healthy teeth. Eating right will also strengthen your teeth and gums. If you suffer from tooth decay or gum disease, give a call to 214-747-0763, Champion Dental Clinic, Farmers Branch, Texas for the best affordable treatment

 

Tooth extraction recovery dfw texas

What Is The Recovery Period For An Emergency Tooth Extraction?

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How Long Does It Take To Get Back To Normal After Tooth Extraction?

 

Tooth extraction can be a daunting and awful task for many individuals. For some, it is just like removing a cherry from the top of the cake. For some patients, it can be an agonizing moment. The recovery also depends upon the type of extraction done. 

After analyzing the condition & chances of infection getting spread (if any), Dentists provide OTC medications. Once it is treated with it, again, the dentist will check and suggest precautions. Patients also sometimes ask to get teeth removal for permanent relief. 

So, in this way, a tooth removal happens. Many dentists suggest an emergency tooth extraction to stop the widespread infection or problem with other teeth. It can be an excruciating or less painful process depending on the severity of the treatment.   

 

How Does Recovery Happen? What Is the Estimated Time?

People heal at different rates, so how fast one person heals may differ from what you experience. Recovery will also be based on the type of wound. Some teeth extractions are simple, taking very little time because the teeth are showing above the gum line. 

Other wisdom teeth will require more complex surgery, such as an impacted tooth, which is completely encased in bone. Naturally, when this type of surgery is necessary, healing time is going to be considerably longer. 

 

Teeth Extraction Recovery Time

With many tooth extraction processes, the pain from the extraction will last for two or three days. The anesthesia you are given for the surgery will wear off in about four hours. You will be given a prescription for pain medicine from the oral surgeon. After a couple of days, all you will need is over-the-counter medications. 

Your gums (if affected) will heal within two weeks. They usually heal faster than most other tissues. If the surgery involves removing any bone, it could take three months or more for your jawbone to heal completely. 

When you get home from the surgery, you should plan on resting for the remainder of the day and not overexert yourself. This can cause problems that are both painful and will slow the healing process. You may be able to go to work the next day, but avoid strenuous activities for about a week. 

 

What Is A Dry Socket? When Does It Happen?

Although it is relatively rare, you might develop what is called a Dry Socket (if the newly formed clot is dislodged). If this happens, it exposes the bone under the tooth and the nerve. This can make it sensitive to anything that touches it – even cold air. It can be excruciating. If the clot is dislodged, you will need to go back to the dentist to apply a medicated dressing on it and for pain medication. A dry socket can take up to a month to heal, but it may heal within a week. 

To prevent dry sockets, you will need to eat liquid or soft foods that are not hot for a couple of days. You also need to avoid acidic foods which would dissolve the clot. Foods with seeds or that are hard (chips and other snack foods) may get into the socket and cause an infection. 

 

Control Swelling

You will probably have some swelling, and it will peak between 48 to 72 hours later, and then it will start to subside. You can apply an ice pack on your face or cheek where it is swelling. To prevent damage to your skin, alternate the ice pack between 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off. 

 

Why Do Teeth Need to Be Removed?

Many people do not ever need their teeth removed. For some people, though, emergency tooth extraction becomes necessary for several reasons, which may include:

  • They are hard to keep clean – It is challenging to keep them clean with a toothbrush and almost impossible to floss adequately.
  • They can develop cavities – If they are visible above the gum line, cavities may develop. 
  • They can get gum disease – If food gets trapped under the gums, bacteria can enter around the tooth and cause gum disease.
  • They can become infected – An abscess could develop in the tooth.
  • They can damage neighboring teeth – Because wisdom teeth often come in crooked or even sideways, they can damage and crowd other teeth.
  • They can develop a cyst – A cyst can develop near the tooth, destroying the tooth roots of other teeth and the bone. 

 

What Is The Suitable Time to Remove Teeth?

As you get older, the roots of your teeth grow longer. A nerve runs under your teeth (lingual nerve), and when you get 35, the roots of your teeth run close to that nerve. This makes it more complicated for an oral surgeon to perform the surgery safely because there is a greater risk of damaging or even severing the nerve. The best time to have teeth examined and removed if needed is before you are 25 to 30s. 

 

If you need to have an emergency tooth removal, you should set aside a couple of days for recovery time – just in case. While most people stay home the day of the surgery and the day after, a more complex tooth extraction will likely require more time to recover. When you want a specialist for your teeth surgery, Champion Dental clinic dentists can provide the services you need in their Farmers Branch Office , DFW, Texas. Nearly all dental health insurance plans are accepted. 

severe periodontics dfw texas

The Nitty-Gritty of Gum Disease!

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Your gum disease is incredibly more complex than you think

Many people tend to think of gum disease as bleeding gums after brushing or flossing. They do not realize that this symptom indicates that a potentially terrible disease is already present in their gums. Others have learned the hard way that letting this disease go untreated leads to severely damaged gums, bone loss in the jaw, and lost teeth. Periodontitis remains the number one reason Americans are losing their teeth today. 

 

What Is Periodontal Disease?

The initial stages of gum disease are called gingivitis. While in this stage, the symptoms are rather mild, but damage may be occurring elsewhere. Along with the bacteria that cause gum disease, inflammation is occurring at the same time. A strong connection has been found to occur between the inflammation caused by the bacteria that cause gum disease, and major health issues. 

 

Complications of Periodontal Disease

The health issues caused by the inflammation from periodontal disease include cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes, problems with pregnancy, and many more. Having this gum disease raises your risk of cardiovascular disease by 19 percent, but it is increased to 44 percent for those 65 or older. People with diabetes have an increased mortality risk that is 3.2 times greater than those without the disease. 

 

How Periodontal Disease Works

The bacteria that produce gum disease are naturally found in the mouth. In a healthy mouth, they are kept in control by the many good bacteria that is also present. When sugar or carbs are introduced, the bad bacteria produce an acid. The presence of the acid and the inflammation caused by it leads to a natural reaction from the immune system. 

The acid and inflammation, as well as the various components of the immune system, ultimately begin to work together to bring about the destruction that periodontal disease is known for. The white blood cells start coming to the site because of signaling from the cytokines, which are proteins secreted by cells notifying the immune system of inflammation. 

One particular type of white blood cells, called neutrophils, is the main kind of white blood cells in the human body. Cytokines signal for them to come to the site of inflammation. The neutrophils begin their work of attempting to curb the harmful bacteria and other agents seek to curb the inflammation. 

During the process of attempting to curb the inflammation, however, some cells stop fulfilling their normal function – the fibroplasts, endothelial cells, and the epithelial cells. In the presence of certain other compounds and hormones, they are turned off. The cells that provide materials to maintain and strengthen the matrix that supports your gums and teeth cease to function, bringing about the faster destruction of it. Once the source of new structural material is turned off, the inflammation and the bacteria causing gum disease can gain free access to the site, bringing in many more reinforcements. 

 

The Complexity of Periodontal Disease

There are many aspects of periodontal disease that are still not understood. The disease is incredibly complex and a number of factors remain unknown. Why some things occur may be slightly different for each individual. Additional factors include the strength of their immune system, their genes, and the types of bacteria involved.

This means that each person with this gum disease needs to be evaluated by a periodontist so that individualized treatment can be given. It may require genetic testing of the oral bacteria to determine which bacteria are involved, and some lifestyle changes may also be strongly recommended. Diabetes, for instance, needs to be controlled in order to control gum disease. 

 

Periodontal Disease Treatment

Once periodontal disease has started, pockets have started to form on the gums. These provide hiding places for the bacteria that are out of reach of your toothbrush and floss. A dentist will be needed to diagnose the situation and provide treatment for it. There are several periodontal disease stages which indicate the amount of damage and more than one type of treatment may be necessary. A periodontist is necessary when serious damage has occurred.

 

Gum Disease Prevention

The best way to beat gum disease, particularly periodontal disease, is to prevent it from occurring at all. You can do this by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing – preferably before you go to bed. If you have gingivitis, this will usually remove it, too, but you will need to keep up the habit to ensure it does not return. 

 

yeast infections in mouth

How To Prevent and Treat Yeast Infections in Your Mouth?

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Causes, Symptoms, Home Remedies, & Treatment

People of any age can get a yeast infection in the mouth, especially if they are not really healthy. This infection is more likely to infect women and babies, but anyone can get it. This fungus is also called thrush, candida, or candidiasis, is caused by the candida albicans fungus.

 

Oral Thrush Symptoms

Thrush can be seen as white patches on the inside of your mouth, throat, cheeks, and tongue. It is sometimes accompanied by pain. You may also have a sore throat and burning sensations in your mouth. It may look like cottage cheese and it will not brush off with a toothbrush. 

When diagnosing thrush, a doctor or dentist will usually only need to look at it to be able to identify it. Some general questions about your health may also be asked. Tests are only necessary when it is not evident or if it does not respond to medication. 

If a baby has thrush, the baby can pass it to the mother when she is breastfeeding. It can then be passed back and forth. When the mother has thrush in the breast, there will be sharp pain when breastfeeding, and the nipples will be painful with intense itching. 

 

Causes of Oral Thrush

The fungus that causes thrush is normally found on the skin, in your intestines, and in your mouth. It is always there, but other bacteria will normally help to keep it under control. 

When there is a problem with normal health, this fungus can grow out of control. Generally, it is when your immune system is not strong. This can be caused by:

  • Taking antibiotics
  • Taking steroids (including inhalers)
  • Receiving chemotherapy or radiation
  • Have diabetes
  • Smoking
  • Wear dentures
  • Have dry mouth
  • Have HIV or AIDS
  • You are an older adult 
  • Breastfeed
  • Had an organ transplant
  • Are a newborn.

Oral thrush is generally not contagious. It is part of the normal bacteria in your mouth and it is usually kept under control by other bacteria – unless the balance is upset. This means you are not likely to get oral thrush from kissing – unless your own immune system is weak. 

 

Home Remedies

If you have an oral yeast infection, there are some steps you can take to provide your own home treatment for thrush. These treatments include:

  • Regular brushing of your teeth
  • Avoid mouthwashes unless prescribed
  • Control your diabetes
  • Eat yogurt that is unsweetened
  • Rinse your mouth with salt water.

Other oral thrush remedies include using some herbs. 

  • You can add the juice from a lemon to 1 cup of water (warm or cold). Drink it or rinse with it. 
  • Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory herb. Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric paste to 1 cup of filtered water or milk. Add a dash of black pepper. Then heat it until warm and swish it in your mouth as you drink it. 

 

Treatment

Teens and others with good health will not normally develop oral thrush. If they do, the doctor will look for other health problems.

If it is not treated, candidiasis can spread. It will first spread to your esophagus, then to other parts of your body. At this point, it is called invasive candidiasis, and it is the most common fungal infection in hospitals. It will usually mean long stays in a hospital, large costs, and undesirable outcomes. It is a serious condition because it will cause problems in your organs, such as your heart, brain, liver, and more. When it goes beyond the esophagus, it will likely be accompanied by a fever and you will have difficulty swallowing. When these symptoms are present, it is important to contact a doctor right away because it could become life-threatening.

Candida treatment will start out with medication – usually nystatin. This will usually be a liquid that is swished around the mouth and then swallowed. A lozenge may also be prescribed. It will be necessary to seek to control other health problems, such as diabetes, at the same time. The oral candidiasis fungi feed on the sugar in your bloodstream. 

If this does not work well, then you will likely be prescribed an antifungal pill. This may be in conjunction with other medications. In most cases, you can be rid of candida in about 10 to 14 days when properly treated. 

 

Preventing a Thrush Infection

The best way to avoid thrush is to prevent it. The steps are not difficult and most anyone can follow them. You can reduce your risk by:

  • Maintaining good oral hygiene with brushing twice a day and flossing.
  • Eat unsweetened yogurt when taking antibiotics
  • After using a corticosteroid inhaler, rinse out your mouth. 
  • Control your blood sugar levels.
  • Clean your dentures every day.
  • Quit smoking – it weakens your immune system.
  • If you get a vaginal infection, treat it quickly. 

When you have an oral yeast infection, it is important to reduce foods that have sugar and yeast in them. This includes breads, beer, wine, soda, and more. The sugar will cause the yeast to grow. 

Avoid dry mouth by staying hydrated. If necessary, get a saliva substitute. Dry mouth promotes bacterial growth and may also lead to more cavities and gum disease. 

 

If you have an oral yeast infection and need an oral thrush treatment, you can reach out to Champion Dental Clinic, Farmers Branch, Texas for the best and affordable treatment 

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How to Handle Self-Destructive Dental Habits?

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Various Damaging Oral Habits

bad dental habits farmers branch dfw tx

Keeping your teeth looking great will only happen if you develop some good habits to keep them that way. While most people know this or have at least heard it, there are some habits you may be guilty of that are damaging your teeth. In fact, some of those bad habits may actually help to destroy your beautiful white teeth. 

 

Habits That Are Hurting Your Teeth

Some harmful habits that you may be doing without thinking about them are hurting your teeth. In some cases, the damage being done to your teeth may be irreversible – unless you have expensive cosmetic dentistry. Some habits you want to avoid include: 

 

  1. Consuming Too Much Sugar

Sugar is the natural enemy of your teeth. Yes, sweet foods and drinks taste really great, but most likely they are harming your teeth. The bacterium that is responsible for cavities feeds on sugar and every time it does it produces acid. The acid is what erodes the enamel on your teeth. In fact, every bite or swig you take of a sugary drink enables the bacteria to produce acid for the next 20 minutes. 

If you drink sugary drinks – specialty coffees, fruit juices, or sodas – all day long, you will definitely see many cavities as a result. Rinsing the sugar out afterward with water will help. Sodas also have their own acid in them, which will help to erode the enamel faster. 

 

  1. Grinding and Clenching Teeth

Grinding your teeth or clenching them is going to damage them. This is often an unconscious habit and some people do it in their sleep. It can lead to shorter teeth and cracked or chipped teeth. Even worse, teeth grinding may result in problems with your jaw joint that can be very painful. This bad habit is often aggravated by increased stress. Learning to relax more can help reduce it. Getting into a regular exercise program can also help to reduce stress.

When adults or children grind or clench their teeth, it may be a symptom of sleep apnea. The dentist can provide you with special mouth guards to help protect your teeth – and they can help with sleep apnea, too.

 

  1. Eating Hard Foods

Chewing on hard candy and ice are hard foods that many people enjoy. Unfortunately, these hard items can also damage the enamel on your teeth. It can chip them, or crack them. When chewing on ice, it lowers the temperature of the tooth, making it easier to crack. If the crack is deep enough, the tooth may need to be replaced. 

 

  1. Biting Your Nails

This habit is bad for your jaw because you must extend it to bite your nails. Keeping your jaw in an extended position for long periods can lead to jaw pain in the joints of your jaw. The habit can also lead to a wearing down of your front teeth, and it may crack or chip them, too. You can start breaking the habit by reducing your stress, or by using a nail polish that tastes bitter. 

 

  1. Brushing Too Hard

In order to remove plaque from your teeth, it is not necessary to be heavy-handed. Plaque is rather easily removed. By putting a lot of pressure on your toothbrush, you are wearing away your gums. This can lead to cavities on the roots of your teeth as your gums recede. You also should use a toothbrush with soft bristles rather than hard ones. 

You also want to wait after eating for about 30 minutes before brushing. The enamel on your teeth is softer after eating for about 20 minutes. Brushing your teeth right after eating will remove some of the enamel from your teeth – which does not grow back. 

 

  1. Not Drinking Enough Water

Drinking plain water is a great way to help your teeth last longer. Water aids in the production of saliva, which naturally helps to wash away the bacteria, acid, and sugar from your teeth. Dry mouth can be caused by alcohol, coffee, medications, and more. When your mouth is dry, the bacteria that produce acid multiplies, and it also stays on your teeth longer. Staying hydrated with water through the day helps protect your teeth and your saliva helps to supply the minerals your teeth need to stay strong. 

 

  1. Smoking

Smoking, or using tobacco of any kind, is one of the worst things you can do if you want to keep your teeth looking good. Besides staining your teeth quickly, it also leads to a reduced immune system in your gums. This enables the bacteria to multiply fast and cause gum disease. Periodontitis is responsible for most adult tooth loss today. You can work to quit smoking by reducing stress, exercising regularly, and chewing gum. Your dentist can also recommend quit smoking programs.

 

Even if you have been practicing some common bad habits for some time, breaking bad habits and adopting habits of good oral hygiene can help spare your teeth and gums. In addition to good habits, keeping regular dental appointments will help keep your teeth in top shape and last a long time.

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Emergency Treatment for Dental Injuries

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Dental Injuries Require Fast Care

DEntal emergency farmers branch dfw texas

Dental injuries can happen at any time and knowing what to do at that moment can help save teeth. In many cases, it is important to get emergency treatment as soon as possible. Acting quickly may help save a smile and reduce repair costs. 

Not every dental problem that is encountered is a dental emergency. Many of them can be treated at a regular dental appointment. Some dental injuries that are emergencies include: 

 

A Knocked Out Tooth

When a tooth is completely knocked out (avulsed), you want to pick it up immediately by the crown and rinse it off if it is dirty. Gently try and put it back in the socket, if possible. If not, hold it between your gums and cheek, or in milk, saliva, or in water with a little salt in it to keep it moist. Do not use regular tap water. 

If possible, make a trip to a dentist within 30 minutes. The timing is very important because when a tooth knocked out is out of its socket for more than an hour it may not be able to be saved. The dentist will also need to determine if nearby teeth have been damaged or loosened. 

When it is a child’s baby tooth that is knocked out, do not try and put it back in the socket. The dentist will usually not try to do this because it may interfere with the permanent teeth underneath. 

 

A Cracked Tooth

A tooth that is cracked should be looked at by a dentist. Rinse your mouth out with warm water to remove bacteria and food particles. Although it is not always a dental emergency, you should have a dental fracture looked at by a dentist to prevent infection, depending on the size of the crack, which could lead to an abscessed tooth. If the pulp is exposed, you may need a root canal. You may also experience pain when you eat hot or cold food or drinks. 

 

Dislodged Tooth

When a tooth has not been completely knocked out, but has been pushed deeper into the socket or is partially out of it, you will likely need root canal treatment. When you see the dentist, the dislodged tooth will be stabilized first and the root canal may be conducted a few days later. 

 

A Broken Jaw

If you experience what could be a broken jaw (or definitely is), you need to seek emergency dental care right away. Your jaw may need to be moved back into the correct position, or oral surgery may be necessary. Breathing may be difficult and your jaw will need to be stabilized if it is a serious break. It is also possible that your mouth may need to be wired shut – in extreme cases in order to heal correctly. Use an ice pack on your face to reduce swelling. 

 

Broken or Chipped Tooth

If at all possible, find the pieces of the tooth to take to the dentist. Rinse it with warm water. Place a cold compress on your face to reduce swelling. If there is any bleeding, place gauze or cotton on the broken tooth.  

 

An Abscessed Tooth

An infection that appears in your gums with a lot of pain could be an abscessed tooth. The infection may be in the tooth and it is necessary that you receive urgent dental care for it. The infection will only get worse but it will also spread until it becomes a life-threatening situation. An emergency dentist will remove the inflammation and perform a root canal on the tooth to remove the infection in the tooth. It is possible that an extraction may be needed. 

 

Toothache

A toothache can occur in any tooth, including wisdom teeth. Generally, a cavity will occur first that has no other symptoms, but as it grows deeper you will experience pain. If not treated, it may become an abscessed tooth. The pain will not go away until the decayed tooth material is removed and a filling put in its place. 

 

Preventing Dental Emergencies

A walk in dentist can provide emergency dental treatment for many dental injuries, but by following some basic guidelines, you may be able to avoid most dental problems. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing will enable your teeth to stay healthy longer. Using fluoride toothpaste will help them resist cavities, and an antibacterial mouthwash will reduce the bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease. Wearing a teeth guard during sports will help to protect your teeth. Seeing a dentist regularly will help keep dental problems at a minimum – as well as the costs for dental treatment. 

 

When you need emergency treatment for a dental injury, you can visit a walk in dentist and get the dental care you need. If in Farmers branch , just visit Champion Dental Clinic, 2936 Valley View Ln, Farmers Branch, TX 75234.

 

 

laser treatment for gum disease

Laser Treatment for Gum Pockets

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The New Laser Treatment Is Nearly Pain-Free!

When you have pockets forming on your gums, you already have a serious form of gum disease called periodontitis. This gum disease is the major reason for tooth loss today. The only way to stop the problem and prevent it from becoming worse and losing teeth is to get periodontal treatment. Choosing the new laser treatment to eliminate gum pockets is fast and nearly painless. 

 

About Gum Pockets

There are more than 500 different types of bacteria that exist naturally in your mouth. Some of them will produce cavities and gum disease because they produce acid whenever they consume sugar. If you do not maintain good oral care by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing, this bacteria will cause gum disease; first gingivitis, then it becomes periodontitis. 

As the gum disease progresses and becomes periodontitis, the bacteria will hide in the tartar at your gum line. Tartar is hardened plaque. It irritates your gums, gets into them, and an immune reaction is started that will not stop unless treated by a dentist. 

This gum infection will produce the pockets that form on your gums, and you will notice that your gums are inflamed and that they are pulling away from your teeth. This makes your teeth look longer and the roots of your teeth become exposed. 

The bacteria and inflammation start to deteriorate your gums, the ligaments that support your teeth, and your jawbone. At the same time, the bacteria and inflammation have entered your bloodstream. Once there, it is circulating throughout your body and causing buildups in your blood vessels and organs. In recent years, researchers have discovered that these buildups often lead to serious health problems such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, heart attacks, cancer, diabetes, dementia, and many more. 

 

Traditional Treatment for Gum Pockets

The traditional way that dentists would treat this problem was to cut open the pockets on the gums, manually scrape out the bacteria and inflammation, smooth out the rough spots on the teeth, and then stitch the gums closely to the teeth. This procedure was usually conducted while the patient was under general anesthesia – completely unconscious. Sometimes, gum grafting occurred at the same time. This process would usually require several sessions at the dentist’s office and recovery could take two to four weeks – while in considerable pain. 

 

Laser Treatment 

The development of lasers for the dentist’s office has resulted in a laser that makes a huge difference in the method of periodontal treatment. It literally makes every aspect better – including a tremendous reduction in treatment and recovery time. 

Some of the benefits of laser treatment include:

  • No scalpel – Although diseased tissue is removed, it is done without a scalpel. The laser is selective on what tissue is removed because it can distinguish between healthy and unhealthy tissue, and it only destroys the unhealthy. This enables this process to save more healthy tissue – without the need for sutures. 
  • Less pain – There is almost no pain at all with this procedure. The laser seals the nerves instantly. Patients may need a local anesthetic, but there is no need for prescription painkillers after the treatment. There is also less swelling.
  • More Bacteria Destroyed – Instead of having to physically remove the bacteria with hand tools, a very thin fiber-optic cable is inserted into the gum pockets. This will kill up to 99 percent of the harmful bacteria. An ultrasonic device will be used afterward to smooth the tooth roots to help prevent reattachment of the bacteria. After this step is completed, the periodontist will use the laser to create a seal between the teeth and the gums. This attaches the gums to the teeth closely and prevents bacteria from reentering. It also enables faster healing.
  • Faster Recovery – This method of gum disease treatment provides a much faster recovery than the traditional method. Instead of having to wait for days to go back to work, you will likely need only 24 hours to recover – but many patients go back to work as soon as the procedure is completed. 
  • Reduces Risk of Infection – Lasers are able to destroy bacteria that are near the site. This greatly reduces the likelihood of infection and enables faster healing. 
  • Speeds Healing – Laser light actually stimulates bone and gum cells to regenerate faster. This laser therapy reduces the healing time and encourages new connective tissues to the teeth, new bone and collagen. 

 

The LANAP Laser

The one laser that is used to treat gum pockets is called LANAP for short, which stands for Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure. It has been approved by the FDA just for this procedure.

 

When your gums are pulling away from your teeth and receding, you will likely have pockets on your gums. You cannot treat this condition yourself and it will continue to get worse, but laser treatment can help eradicate the problem. Champion Dental Clinic Board Certified Periodontists uses the LANAP laser treatment for gum pockets and helps to stop further gum decay. Most dental health insurance plans are accepted. For a consultation or more information about periodontal treatment, you can contact us at 214-747-0763 today