5 Worst Enemies Of Your Teeth

When it comes to dental care, every lay man knows that chocolates and sweets are harmful for teeth. It not only damages the tooth enamel but also discolors the teeth and invites serious dental diseases. Mentioned here are the top five edibles that are actually the worst enemies of your shiny smile and can render dangerous issues for your denture.
 

1. Carbonated Drinks

Carbonated drinks or soft drinks are generally loaded with sugar. This sugar content is dangerous for the tooth enamel as it promotes plaque formation. Apart from that, carbonated drinks have acidic content too, which is again extremely harmful as they can damage teeth.

2. Citrus Fruit

Citrus fruits do not pose any damage to teeth if consumed in moderation but a regular consumption of citrus fruits can damage the tooth enamel. It is so because citrus fruits are rich in natural acids which can lead to erosion and softening of tooth enamel thus, rendering the teeth weak and unhealthy. People who are fond of oranges and tangerines are advised to use mouthwash after eating such fruits. Drinking orange juice with straw can also be a good option.

3. Tea and Coffee

In case you are fond of black tea or black coffee, its imperative for you to pay extra attention towards the color of your teeth. Excessive consumption of coffee and black tea stand next to tobacco smoking as major causes of tooth discoloration, straining and tooth darkening. It is wise to give up on black tea and coffee but if you can't, then it is advised to add some amount of milk in your daily cup of tea or coffee. Milk is said to neutralize the negative effects of tannins on the outer teeth.

4. Wine

In the dental world, wine is quite an interesting topic that renders both- positive as well as negative effects on our dental health. Red wine is a natural antiseptic which can help decrease the risk of plaque formation and prevents tooth decay too. But, at the same time, wine is also found to be rich in acids and sugars which end up in damaging the tooth enamel. Moreover, regular intake of wine can also lead to tooth staining. Thus, it is advised to drink plenty of water to get rid of harmful components from the teeth.

5. Diet Pills

Diet pills at times lead to reduced production of saliva by the glands resulting in dry mouth. Dry mouth promotes the growth of bacteria and plaque hence, resulting in tooth decay. It is better to aim for weight loss through healthy and balanced diet rather than artificial things like diet pills.

  Dr. Claudio A. Sorrentino

  www.dentalpalermo.com.ar

Myths About Root Canal Treatment

Root canal is usually painful
Most people fear that a root canal treatment is usually associated with pain during treatment. Your dentist or endodontist will give a local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth. If you are very apprehensive and tense you may need sedation, such as nitrous oxide. This eliminates the pain that is caused due to the procedure. If you have pain while the procedure is being done, tell your dentist about it. Your dentist will adjust the technique to avoid causing pain again or give more anesthesia if required.

As my tooth's nerves are removed, I won't feel any pain
Some people think that after the root canal treatment they won’t feel any pain in the treated tooth. However this is not true. Even though the pulp of the tooth is removed the nerves that surround your tooth can feel pressure and touch. These sensations are transmitted by the nerves in the surrounding tissue. In addition after the procedure you can have soreness in the concerned tooth for two to three days. You may be prescribed pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to ease the discomfort.

Why should I get a root canal treatment if the tooth may have to be taken out eventually?
A tooth after root canal treatment can last for the rest of your life with proper care. To increase the longevity of your teeth maintain good oral hygiene. To maintain healthy teeth and gums brush with fluoride toothpaste (twice a day) and floss everyday. Go for regular dental checkups and professional cleanings. Root canal treatment has helped to save several teeth that would or else need extraction.

If I don’t have any pain, I don't really need a root canal
It is very much possible that your tooth that needs root canal therapy may not have pain. But remember that absence of pain does not mean that your tooth is healthy. Like an infection of the pulp of the tooth may not cause pain initially. But without treatment it can cause pain and swelling. In some cases untreated infection can cause pus accumulation at the root tip in the jawbone, forming an abscess. Untreated abscess can extend and destroy the bone around the tooth and cause pain. After examination if your dentist recommends root canal treatment get it done even if there are no symptoms.

In root canal therapy the roots of my tooth are removed, or my whole tooth is removed
A tooth has outer enamel, the dentin (main body of the tooth) and soft tooth pulp (in the center of the tooth and in canals also called root canals). Nerves and blood vessels enter the tooth through the end of the root (called the apex) and then pass through a canal inside the root to the pulp chamber. In root canal treatment, the tooth pulp which may be inflamed or infected is removed. After removing the diseased pulp tissue, the space is cleaned, shaped and filled. In root canal therapy the roots of the tooth or the whole tooth is not removed.

  Dr. Claudio A. Sorrentino

  www.dentalpalermo.com.ar

All about Dental Sealants and how they help prevent Tooth Decay

At times your dentist may place a plastic coating on the chewing (occlusal) surface of the permanent back teeth (the molars and premolars). This plastic coating is known as sealant and it helps to protect the teeth from decay.

Why are dental sealants used on teeth?

The chewing (occlusal) surface of the permanent back teeth (the molars and premolars) has grooves or "fissures." Food particles get deposited in the narrow grooves and it can be difficult to clean them as the fissures can be deep and narrower than even a single bristle of a toothbrush. Plaque (a sticky substance that is formed when bacteria present in the mouth get deposited along with saliva, food particles and other natural substances on the surface of the teeth) gets accumulated in them. The bacteria in plaque break the sugar (carbohydrate) in food and lead to formation of acid in the mouth and can lead to tooth decay if it is not removed. The dental sealants protect the grooved and pitted areas by creating a smooth surface by covering the fissured area.

When are dental sealants applied?

In children a dentist may apply sealant as soon as the molar teeth come fully into the mouth (erupt) to protect them from caries. Application of dental sealant on the chewing (occlusal) surfaces of these teeth helps to protect the tooth from caries.

Can dental sealants be used only on the chewing surface of molar and premolar permanent teeth?

Dental sealants are mostly used to cover the chewing (occlusal) surfaces of the back permanent teeth (the molars and premolars) as they have grooves or pits. The sealant helps to protect these teeth for decay. They may be placed on other teeth if they have grooves or pits.

Can dental sealants be used on teeth of adults?

Yes sealants can be placed on teeth of adults as well. But they are used less often in adults. They are used in adults if they have deep grooves and fissures that do not already have fillings or dental sealants.

What do dental sealants look like?

Various types of sealant are present. They can be clear, white or have a slight tint depending on the type of dental sealant that is used.

How are dental sealants placed?

Your dentist will first clean your teeth with a paste and brush, then rinse and dry your tooth/teeth. An acidic solution will be placed on the tooth to make a fine rougher surface than the surrounding tooth enamel (this rough surface promotes the dental sealant to attach to the tooth). After drying the tooth your dentist will place the liquid dental sealant on the tooth and it is hardened by using a light. After the sealant hardens on the tooth you can chew on the tooth again.

How long does a dental sealant last?

Dental sealants have been proven to be effective in preventing decay on chewing (occlusal) surfaces. They can last for years and can be reapplied if needed.

Is fluoride needed after dental sealant is placed?

Yes, as the sealants protect only the surface they are applied on where as fluoride protects all the surfaces of the tooth from decay and cavities.

  Dr. Claudio A. Sorrentino

  www.dentalpalermo.com.ar

What to Eat After Dental Surgery?

Good diet and nourishment is of utmost significance especially when a person is recuperating from a dental surgery. If one knows what to eat and eats the appropriate diet, it guarantees quick recovery and also reduces the possibility of excessive dry socket and blood loss. Post oral surgery phase is a very critical stage and must not be managed without the supervision of dental specialists. In case the patient has been prescribed some antibiotics, he may have to exclude dairy products from his diet chart. In fact, for a couple of days following the surgery the patient should go in for either drinking beverages such as tea or water or foods that are soft.

In the post dental surgery period, a person needs to know what to eat and must include sufficient amount of fibre and protein in the diet. Liquids should also form a predominant part of the diet. Good dietary liquids include nourishing fruit and vegetable juices, milkshakes, energy drinks, instant breakfast drinks and fruit smoothies.
Immediately after oral surgery, oatmeal, soft scrambled eggs, soft fruits, well cooked rice and cream of wheat should be included in the diet of the patient.
Avoid carbonated or aerated beverages, hot fluids and spicy food after oral surgery.
The patient must eat those food items that do not cause irritation to one’s surgery spot. Foods such as puddings, yoghurt, custard, vegetable broth, ice-creams, applesauce, cream soups, and mashed potatoes are soothing to the spot of surgery.

Anything that needs to be sucked should be stringently avoided as this can hinder the blood clot formation in the mouth, resulting in excessive bleeding.
Though meat and the dairy products are an excellent source of protein and energy, they need to be avoided. Instead, you can eat mashed potatoes, soft cheeses and tofu. Moreover, food items including canned fish, poached fish, hummus, meat loafs, mashed pinto beans and shredded meat are supposed to be included in the diet as they do not require much of chewing. Peanut butter, seed and nut oils are also recommended.

What to eat after dental surgery is an important query that needs to be addressed to every patient. The latest innovations in the field of medicine and pharmacy have made the surgical methods and process less agonising and more tolerable on the part of the patient. As the patient is under the influence of medication when he returns home, he must ensure that he sticks to the prescribed painkillers and must not eat anything without the approval of the doctor.

  Dr. Claudio A. Sorrentino

  www.dentalpalermo.com.ar

Taking Care of Sensitive Teeth

If you are suffering from sensitive teeth – or dentine hypersensitivity – the chances are you haven’t been caring for them properly; you have neglected them to an extent where they hurt when you bite into cold or hot things and cause you a lot of discomfort accordingly. However, there are means of tackling this unfortunate problem. We will look at ways of taking care of sensitive teeth.

Sensitive teeth is a physical feeling when the nerves inside the dentin of the teeth are exposed to different elements; this feeling can range from a slight discomfort to a sharp-shooting pain. The causes for sensitive teeth can vary, and they range from general wear and tear to decaying teeth due to neglect.

A recent study showed that 57 per cent of people suffered – to some degree – from sensitive teeth, with the 30-39 age bracket seems the most instances. Most of these people cited cold things are the reason for the pain, but others mentioned hot and sweet stimuli as well. These figures are a lot higher than had been envisaged by dental experts.

 So what can you do to take care of your sensitive teeth?

 1.    The first thing you should do is discuss the issue with your dentist. Explain your pain, your symptoms, and he should be able to seal the sensitive area with a bonding agent – or a fluoride gel – which can be rubbed into the sensitive teeth and gums after your daily brushings. Over time, this will cure the pain which is observed from sensitive teeth.

2.    Use a tooth-brush with ultra-soft bristles; these can be found in any pharmacy or dental shop. Avoid brushing your teeth in a horizontal method as this exposes the roots more so than with the vertical method.

3.    Your dentist should be able to prescribe you with the most effective toothpaste for sensitive teeth. Some tooth-pastes are specifically produced and customized to deal with the problems of sensitive teeth.

4.    Avoid the things which cause the pain until as such time as the problem has abated and resolved itself. If foods such as ice-lollies, or cold drinks wakes you wince with pain, then avoid them as best you can. Every time you indulge in sweet or sour foods such as candy, acidic foods such as wine and grapefruit juice, chew some sugar-free gum or brush your teeth – when practical to do so – to help the treatment progress. To take care of your sensitive teeth, keep these points in mind.

  Dr. Claudio A. Sorrentino

  www.dentalpalermo.com.ar

Want a healthy smile? Try vitamin D!

Vitamins and minerals have been shown to have a countless number of various benefits for the human body, and some may have benefits specifically for your smile. New research has shown that vitamin D may help lower your risk of tooth decay. And because the modern lifestyle often keeps us out of the sun (the main source of vitamin D) and few of us drink vitamin D-enriched whole milk these days, vitamin D supplements may be a vital part of your oral health regimen.

According to a review of research published in Nutrition Reviews, vitamin D was linked to a possible 50% reduction in tooth decay. Vitamin D has long been known to help strengthen bone, but dentists were long uncertain about the role this nutrient played in tooth health. However, after reviewing 24 different clinical trials from the 1920s to 1980s, it is now believed that Vitamin D helps keep cavities at bay, which is great news for your smile.

How can you up your vitamin D? When you’re exposed to sunshine, your body will naturally produce vitamin D. Just 10 minutes in the sun every day is about what’s needed to maintain healthy levels, but some of us don’t even get that much. You can also drink vitamin D enriched milk, and fish and eggs are a good natural source of vitamin D. Because vitamin D isn’t found naturally in very many foods, various foods are fortified with added vitamin D, like soymilk and orange juice. Check labels to find foods fortified with vitamin D.

Besides protecting your teeth from decay, vitamin D has been linked to the prevention of cancer, osteoporosis, diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension. It can help you maintain beautiful and healthy hair, and it can reduce the inflammatory response. If you’ve been experiencing chronic fatigue, you may find that supplementing your diet with added vitamin D can help. Lots of people overlook the importance of vitamin D, but now that we know that it can help you keep your smile in shape, we may be recommending more of it at your next dental checkup.

  Dr. Claudio A. Sorrentino

  www.dentalpalermo.com.ar

 

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

One common issue patients raise with their dentist is tooth sensitivity. Many experience it without knowing what causes it. In today’s post, we’d like to look at that question.

Often, tooth sensitivity occurs when the gums have receded, leaving tooth roots exposed. Tubules in the roots lead down to the tooth’s nerve. These let stimuli like hot and cold reach the nerve, creating a shock of sensation.

Gum recession is spurred by a variety of factors, including:

Gum Disease

Also known as periodontal disease, this is the primary cause of gum recession. What’s more, it’s been estimated that a majority of American adults have some form of the disease. Gum disease can be treated or prevented through regular oral care at home and regular visits to your local dentist.

Brushing Technique

How you brush can impact your oral health. When you brush aggressively using a hard-bristled toothbrush, you aren’t doing your smile any favors. This kind of brushing can harm your gums and your teeth alike. Brush thoroughly but gently, and ask your doctor for advice on what kind of brush you need.

Teeth Grinding/Cracked Teeth

Also known as bruxism, teeth grinding is a common sign of stress. Over time, grinding will damage teeth, possibly to the point that teeth become cracked. When teeth are cracked, bacteria can gain access to a tooth’s pulp, causing sensitivity. See your dentist about treating your teeth grinding with an oral appliance.

Age

It’s not uncommon for patients between 25 and 30 to experience sensitivity. If that fits your situation, talk to your doctor about what you can do to treat your discomfort.

Is sensitivity putting a damper on your sense of health and wellbeing? Call your local dentist. Sometimes changing hygiene products is all it takes to tooth sensitivity. You don’t have to live with your discomfort. A long-term solution is possible!

  Dr. Claudio A. Sorrentino

  www.dentalpalermo.com.ar