According to a 2014 report by the American Association of Endodontists, 54 percent of people surveyed said, “root canals make them apprehensive.” Our dentist in Fort Lauderdale understands that many patients feel nervous prior to treatment. However, root canal treatment can greatly improve your oral health and comfort. Here are some of the advantages to undergoing root canal therapy.
The toothache will go away
Have you been suffering with a toothache due to infected roots? Root canal therapy can help eliminate discomfort and pain. Root canal therapy will allow you to live your life comfortably without the need for painkilling medication.
Therapy can save a tooth
Root canal therapy can save a tooth that is badly damaged from infection that would otherwise need to be extracted. It can also improve the appearance of your smile because a dental crown is placed on top of the tooth, offering a healthy and attractive appearance. Our team may be able to help you retain your natural teeth through root canal therapy.
Prevent the spread of infection
During treatment, the entire area surrounding the infected tooth is cleaned. This can prevent the spread of the infection. Ignoring an infection can cause bacteria to spread to healthy teeth and your gums. By limiting the spread of infection, you will save yourself time and money from having to deal with additional and costly dental work.
Our team is experienced in root canal therapy is a similar experience to having a filling placed. Our team is experienced in performing root canals and have undergone specialized training to do so. Your comfort and safety always come first in our office.
Root canal therapy can improve the quality of your life by limiting the spread of infection, saving your natural teeth, and reducing recurring toothaches. Prior to treatment, our team will answer any questions you might have about the procedure.
Brushing your teeth is a vital step in maintaining good oral health. However, is there such a thing as over-brushing?
The American Dental Association recommends you brush your teeth for 2 minutes, twice a day. People sometimes brush after every meal, or brush midday to freshen up. Although this is not always a bad thing, when you start brushing too much or for too long, you can ultimately damage your teeth.
Brushing more than three times a day, and for longer than 2 minutes, can sometimes lead to your tooth enamel wearing down as well as cause damage to your gums. Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body and helps fight against tooth decay. Over-brushing can damage this shield and cause teeth to become sensitive and prone to cavities.
Practicing proper oral hygiene care at home is an important part of your overall oral health. However, being aware of how much is too much is equally important in keeping your smile healthy.
Using the right kind of toothbrush helps prevent unnecessary enamel erosion. It is recommended you use a toothbrush with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. The Seal of Acceptance shows that:
All of the toothbrush components are safe for use in the mouth.
Bristles are free of sharp or jagged edges (a soft-bristled toothbrush helps prevent the wearing down of enamel).
The toothbrush can be used to provide a significant decrease in mild gum disease and plaque.
You may be unaware of how your oral health can be an indicator of your overall health. The warning signs of systemic health conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, can often be found by during a routine examination at our dental office. You may be surprised to find out that hypertension (high blood pressure) may also be linked to your oral health habits.
A recent study published in the Journal of Periodontology found by our 33308 dentist suggests that there is a link between oral hygiene and high blood pressure, based on the results of almost 20,000 adults surveyed in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES). It was found that individuals with poor oral hygiene habits, such as infrequent brushing of teeth, were more likely to suffer from hypertension. Individuals that brushed their teeth more than once daily and also utilized other oral health products such as floss or mouthwash were less likely to suffer from hypertension. The study concluded that maintaining good oral hygiene habits may help prevent or control high blood pressure.
Good oral hygiene is essential to a healthy life and regular dental visits are important in maintaining good oral health. Contact our Fort Lauderdale, FL dental office to schedule your appointment for an examination and cleaning.
No time to brush or floss your teeth? When brushing or flossing isn’t convenient, you can still keep your mouth feeling fresh by eating certain foods. When you’re on the go or in a hurry, our dentist in 33308 suggests to try grabbing one of these foods to munch on to help fight plaque and keep your teeth healthy.
Cheese provides several benefits for your teeth, such as preserves and rebuilds tooth enamel, prevents plaque and balances your mouth’s acidity level. It also helps to produce saliva, which kills the bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease.
Tea contains polyphenols, which slows the growth of bacteria associated with tooth decay and gum disease. It prevents the bacteria in your mouth from turning sugar into plaque. Tea also fights the bacteria that cause bad breath.
Crunchy fruits and vegetables, such as apples, carrots and celery, require extra chewing which produces saliva. Saliva helps to neutralize bacteria that cause tooth decay. Also, chewing on naturally abrasive foods removes stuck food particles, massages gums and cleans between teeth.
Vitamin-rich foods containing calcium and phosphorus can help keep tooth enamel strong and healthy. Acidic foods may cause tiny lesions on tooth enamel. Calcium and phosphate help redeposit minerals back into these lesions.
Sugarless gum contains xylitol that helps to prevent plaque and aids in producing saliva. Chewing sugarless gum also keeps your breath smelling fresh.
Raisins contain phytochemicals, which fights bacteria that causes tooth decay. Some compounds in raisins also affect the growth of bacteria that is associated with gum disease.
Water is the best way to stimulate saliva, which is your body’s greatest defense against bacteria that cause plaque and cavities. If you can’t brush after eating, rinse your mouth with water to assist in preventing tooth decay.
It is important to have a balanced diet for your oral and overall health. While these foods help to combat plaque buildup and tooth decay, no food can take the place of daily brushing and flossing. It is vital to continue your daily oral hygiene regimen and keep up with regular scheduled appointments to our dental office in Fort Lauderdale, FL.
Toothpaste does a great job of cleaning teeth, but there are many other uses for toothpaste that you might not expect. The same ingredients that help polish our teeth can also soothe some common ailments, make items sparkle, and get rid of stains and pungent smells. Read these tricks on how toothpaste can do much more than leave your smile looking bright.
Relieve irritation from bee stings and insect bites. Apply a small amount of toothpaste to the sting/bite to stop the itching and decrease any swelling. The toothpaste dries up the wound and helps it heal faster.
Remove crayon and other marks from painted walls. Rub a damp cloth with toothpaste gently on the marked-up wall and watch the marks disappear. The best part is that it won’t remove the paint off the walls.
Prevent mirrors from fogging. Rub toothpaste on the mirrors and wipe it off before your next shower. This will help you save time during your morning routine by not waiting for the mirror to clear up.
Remove scuffs from dirty shoes. Apply toothpaste directly to the dirty or scuffed area, then scrub with a brush and wipe clean. Stubborn stains may require additional toothpaste or multiple applications to remove completely.
Make silver jewelry and diamonds sparkle. Rub toothpaste onto jewelry and leave overnight. Wipe clean with a soft cloth in the morning. You can also shine diamonds by gently scrubbing them using a toothbrush, toothpaste and water.
Remove scratches on DVDs and CDs. This technique works well on only shallow scratches and smudges. Apply a thin coating of toothpaste to the disc, rub gently and rinse clean. Repeat the process if there are many scratches.
Decrease the size of a pimple. Apply toothpaste to the affected area at night before bed and wash it off in the morning. Toothpaste will dry out the area and speed up the healing process.
Deodorize hands. Pungent foods, cleaning products and fragrances can linger on your hands no matter how many times you wash them. Try washing your hands using a small dab of toothpaste in addition to soap and water.
Fill in small nail holes in walls. Squeeze toothpaste into the hole and use a putty knife to remove excess toothpaste. Let the toothpaste dry and your wall will look good as new. If needed, you can also touch up the paint.
Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) refer to a group of conditions that affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the muscles around it. The TMJ is the joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull. TMD can cause pain and dysfunction in the TMJ and surrounding muscles.
Causes of TMD
There are numerous potential causes of TMD, including trauma to the jaw, grinding or clenching of the teeth, arthritis, and stress. It is important to evaluate each case carefully to determine the specific cause or causes of TMD in that particular instance.
Trauma to the jaw is a common cause of TMD. It can occur due to a direct blow to the jaw (such as from a punch or sports injuries) or repetitive stress on the jaw joint (such as chewing gum). Grinding or clenching of the teeth is another common cause of TMD. It can occur due to stress or during sleep. Arthritis is another potential cause of TMD. It is often seen in older adults with degenerative joint changes. Stress is also a common trigger for TMD. Stressful events can lead to muscle tension and increased clenching and grinding of the teeth.
Symptoms of TMD
The most common symptom of TMD is pain or tenderness in the jaw. This pain may be constant or may only occur when moving the jaw. Clicking or popping noises when opening or closing the mouth are also common, as well as difficulty or discomfort when chewing. Other symptoms include earache, headaches, dizziness, and neck pain.
TMD can cause headaches, neck pain, and earaches. These problems can be caused by several different factors, including poor posture, teeth grinding, and TMJ disorders.
Headaches can be caused by an imbalance of neck and jaw muscles, a common symptom of TMD. It can lead to tension headaches or migraines and refer to pain in other areas of the head or face.
Neck pain is also associated with TMD due to the same imbalances, poor posture and improper use of the TMJ. The pain may be focused on the neck and spread to other body areas.
Earaches are more likely to occur when TMD is left untreated for a long period, as this can cause misalignment between nasal passages, teeth, and temporomandibular joints. This inflammation leads to pressure on the ear canal, causing discomfort in both ears at once.
Diagnosis of TMD
There are several ways that TMD can be diagnosed, including a physical exam, imaging tests, and a review of the patient’s medical history and symptoms.
A physical exam is often the first step in diagnosing TMD. Your dentist or doctor will look for signs of TMJ disfunction, such as pain or tenderness in the jaw, popping or clicking, and limited jaw movement.
Imaging tests like X-rays or MRI can also help diagnose TMD. These tests can help to rule out other potential causes of jaw pain, such as dental problems or arthritis.
Reviewing the patient’s medical history and symptoms can also help diagnose TMD. Your dentist will ask about any previous episodes of jaw pain or TMJ dysfunction and any other medical conditions that may be causing or contributing to the current problem.
TMD can be difficult to diagnose due to various symptoms and causes. The most common symptom is pain in the jaw, which can be caused by several things, including teeth grinding, infection, arthritis, and muscle tension. Other symptoms include clicking or popping sounds in the jaw, headaches, earache, and chewing pain.
Many people with TMD don’t have all these symptoms, which can vary in intensity. For example, someone with mild TMD might only have occasional pain when chewing, while someone with severe TMD might have constant pain in the jaw that prevents them from eating or talking.
There are several treatment options for TMD, but finding the right one can be difficult. If you think you might have TMD, it’s important to see your dentist or doctor so they can rule out other potential causes of your symptoms and develop a treatment plan that’s right for you.
Treatment of TMD
There are several treatments for TMD, depending on the underlying cause. Sometimes, simply making lifestyle changes such as avoiding hard or chewy foods, maintaining good posture, and avoiding clenching or grinding your teeth may alleviate symptoms. In fact, the NIDCR also recommends a “less is often best” approach in treating TMJ disorders.
Physical therapy exercises that stretch and strengthen the jaw muscles can also be helpful. If pain is severe, over-the-counter or prescription pain medication may be necessary. In some cases, dental appliances such as mouthguards or splints may be recommended to help keep the jaw in alignment and protect the teeth from wear and tear.
Surgery is only necessary for the most severe cases of TMD; even then, it is often only a last resort. Surgery should only be considered after all other conservative treatment options have been exhausted. If surgery is deemed necessary, various surgical procedures can be performed to correct the underlying problem. The type of surgery will depend on the individual case and the severity of the condition.
Types of surgery used to treat TMD include:
* Arthrocentesis — used to remove excess fluid from the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) * Arthroscopy — a tiny camera is inserted into the TMJ to help diagnose and repair any damage present * Open-joint surgery — may be necessary if the joint is severely damaged or there are major deformities in the bones of the jaw * Damaged disc reconstruction — involves reconstructing or replacing the disc between the two joints of the TMJ.
Surgery for TMD has its risks and side effects, such as infection, nerve damage, and facial muscle paralysis, so it should not be taken lightly.
Prevention of TMD
Preventing TMD can be as simple as avoiding hard or chewy foods, practising good posture, and wearing a mouthguard during sports or other activities that could cause jaw trauma. Here are a few tips to help you avoid TMD:
Avoid hard or chewy foods: Hard and chewy foods can put undue stress on your temporomandibular joint and may cause TMD symptoms. To help prevent these symptoms, avoid chewing gum and eating tough meats or crunchy vegetables.
Practice good posture: Good posture helps align your spine, which can take pressure off your TMJ. To practice good posture, stand up straight with your shoulders back and down, and keep your head level. Sit in a chair with your back straight and feet planted firmly on the ground.
Wear a mouthguard during sports or other activities: Wearing one during activities that could cause jaw trauma can help protect your TMJ from injury. If you play contact sports such as football or hockey, wear a mouthguard to help prevent TMD symptoms.
Relax your jaw: Tension in the jaw can cause TMD symptoms, so it is important to relax your jaw by avoiding clenching and grinding your teeth. Avoiding stressful situations that may cause you to clench or grind your teeth can also help prevent TMD symptoms. To help relax your jaw muscles, massage the area around your TMJ and gently stretch your mouth open and closed.
See a dentist: If you experience discomfort near your jaw, see a dentist as soon as possible to rule out TMD. Your dentist may be able to recommend treatments such as splints or bite guards that can help prevent further damage or provide relief from existing symptoms.
If you have TMD or are experiencing any of the symptoms associated with the disorder, it’s important to seek medical attention. TMD can be difficult to diagnose, and only a qualified medical professional can determine whether or not you have the condition.
Symptoms of TMD can vary but may include pain or tenderness in the jaw, face, neck, or shoulders; clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the jaw; pain when chewing; lockjaw; and headaches. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please see a doctor immediately.
Searching for a TMD specialist in Fort Lauderdale? We can help!
Our team is here to help you. Schedule a consultation with our Fort Lauderdale dentist to learn more about the solutions available for people just like you dealing with TMD discomfort. We will provide a thorough examination to determine the best course of treatment for your TMD.
Enamel is the guardian of your teeth and the hardest material in the body. It’s the first defense against harmful bacteria which may lead to tooth decay. When you eat certain foods, it creates bacteria which attack your tooth enamel. Carbohydrates and sugary foods are examples of these foods. Our dentist in 33308 agrees that brushing directly after eating can be harmful to your enamel.
Why this is a problem
When eating or drinking, the pH balance in your mouth changes. After each bite of acidic food, the pH balance moves towards a level which causes demineralization. The new acidity softens the enamel which can cause bacteria to get into the teeth. Brushing right after you eat may damage your enamel. This is important because enamel protects your teeth from damage.
Steps you can take to protect your enamel:
If you’ve had anything acidic, don’t brush for at least 30 minutes.
Fruits with citric acid are one example. If you are planning ingesting acidic foods or drinks, you can brush beforehand.
A glass of water will help remove the acid. Follow this by chewing sugarless gum. These steps help create saliva which will help bring back the necessary pH balance needed for a healthy smile.
Try to avoid soda as prolonged phosphoric acid can cause permanent damage.
Brushing your teeth twice a day is an important habit for optimal oral health.
Have you ever been told you should brush your teeth right after eating? While this may sound like the right habit to adapt, this practice could be detrimental to the health of your teeth. Rinsing your mouth with water after eating may be a better option to keep enamel strong. Visit our office for an exam and dental cleaning and we can give you for tips for healthy, strong teeth. Call our dental office in Fort Lauderdale, FL today.
When you travel by plane, your flight attendant will advise that in the rare case of an emergency, you must first put on your air mask before attempting to help those around you. When this is not followed, the results can be catastrophic, both for you and for those you might otherwise have been in a position to assist. While this is crucial information for all, our 33308 dentist agrees that many women particularly require this gentle reminder to prioritize their own needs above those of others.
All too often, we meet women who work tirelessly to fulfill the needs of their families. We see working moms, both at home and in office, who prioritize the health and wellness of their children, spouse and even friends before their own.
We get it: there’s joy and fulfillment in taking care of others. However, it may be time to “put on your oxygen mask” and consider whether you are remembering to care for yourself. Your health, both mental and physical, should be one of your top priorities. This will allow you to have the energy and strength you need to assist with the needs of those around you.
Smile restoration can take years off your appearance, while adding years to your life by improving your health. If you’re looking for a way to jump start your new self-care inclusive way of living, contact our Fort Lauderdale, FL dental office for a cosmetic consultation. Your friends and family will love to see you with a vibrant, beautiful, healthy smile. You deserve it.
How often does your child eat candy? According to a study conducted by the USDA Economic Research Service, children under 12 consume an average of 49 pounds of sugar in one year. While candy is not the sole source of sugar in a child’s diet, the impacts of sugary candy treats are particularly harmful to teeth. Here’s what you our dentist in Fort Lauderdale, FL needs you to know about candy and how it might be damaging your child’s smile.
The Impact of Sugar on Teeth
The real culprit in candy is the high sugar content. Certain types of bacteria that are present in your mouth can feed on sugar. These destructive bacteria then create acid that wears away tooth enamel. When enamel is weakened, your risk of developing decay increases. Your mouth is effective at neutralizing acids and aiding minerals that strengthen enamel if the amount of sugars and acids is not excessive. Your mouth can only do so much, which makes it essential to limit your sugar intake and maintain a regular and thorough oral hygiene routine.
Watch Out for Sticky, Sugary Candies
Not all candies are made equal. For a general rule of thumb, the sticker the candy, the worse it is for your teeth. Sticky candies leave sugary residue on your teeth long after you are done eating. This gives the bacteria in your mouth more time to start demineralizing enamel. Watch out for sticky candies like gum drops and taffy.
Suckers, lollipops, and hard sucking candies are troublesome because they are in your mouth for an extended period of time. Like sticky candies, this allows for more time for harmful bacteria to get to work by weakening your teeth. You can also chip or crack a tooth if you bite too hard.
Other problematic candies include those that are gummy and coated in sugar. Think of gummy worms or another sour covered, chewy critter. Not only are they high in sugar content, but they also typically contain harmful acids that contribute to a loss of enamel.
Steps for Preventing Decay
You can help your child by limiting their candy and sugar intake. In some instances, this can be tricky and even out of your control when your child is at school or a friend’s house. What you can do is instill good oral hygiene habits in your child. Make sure they are brushing for two minutes twice each day. You can make brushing fun. Sing a song together for the two minutes, and allow them to choose a fun toothbrush and toothpaste flavor.
Candy is a fun treat. You don’t have to take it away from your child altogether, but limit their exposure to such treats and educate them about the impacts candy can have on their teeth. When left untreated, decay can spread leading to pain and infection. Maintaining a schedule of regular visits to our office is essential. More than just a dental cleaning, we will provide a thorough examination to check for decay.
You may not realize it, but you could be at risk of developing an unsightly medical condition known as hairy tongue. While it is harmless in most cases, hairy tongue is still an unpleasant ailment. The causes are not always completely known, but practicing good oral hygiene at home and visiting our dental office for dental cleanings can help prevent the issue. Here’s what our dentist in 33308 needs you to know.
What is hairy tongue?
With hairy tongue, your tongue may look like its covered in fuzz or hair, but this condition is actually caused by an accumulation of bacteria. The surface of your tongue is covered in small, rough papillae which gives it its rough texture. Overtime, these papillae grow, shed, and are replaced. Occasionally, the older papillae may fail to shed properly. This causes a buildup on the tongue and can cause a hair-like appearance.
Who is at risk of hairy tongue?
According to the American Academy of Oral Medicine, as much as 13% of the population may have hairy tongue. Anyone can develop the condition, but certain risk factors such as age and tobacco use increase your chances.
What causes hairy tongue?
While the exact causes of hairy tongue are not known, there are a variety of factors that can put you at a higher risk of developing the condition. Poor oral hygiene and a diet of soft foods can put you at an increased risk, as a lack of stimulation on the tongue can prevent the shedding of older papillae. Excessive consumption of certain substances, including tobacco, alcohol, coffee, and tea have been shown to contribute to this condition. Dehydration and dry mouth can slow down the tongue’s natural refresh cycle of replacing papillae.
The best defense against hairy tongue is a regular at-home oral hygiene routine that includes twice daily brushing, flossing, and mouthwash. Visiting our practice at least twice a year for cleanings can also give us an opportunity to regularly examine your mouth and catch any early signs of hairy tongue.
If you’re past due for your regular cleaning or are concerned that you might be developing hairy tongue, don’t hesitate to contact our dental office in Fort Lauderdale, FL for an appointment today.
(954) 941-5550
