|
Toothache
A toothache is a pain in or around a tooth that may be
caused by:
Symptoms may include:
-
Tooth pain that may be sharp, throbbing, or constant. In
some people, pain results only when pressure is applied
to the tooth.
-
Swelling around the tooth
-
Fever or headache
-
Foul-tasting drainage from the infected tooth
When Should I See a Dentist?
See your dentist as soon as possible if:
-
You have a toothache that lasts longer than 1 or 2 days
-
Your toothache is severe
-
You have a fever, earache, or pain upon opening your
mouth wide
Proper identification and treatment of dental infections is
important to prevent its spread to other parts of the face
and skull and possibly even to the bloodstream.
What Happens During the Dental Appointment?
Your dentist will obtain your medical history and conduct a
physical exam. He or she will ask you questions about the
pain, such as when the pain started, how severe it is, where
the pain is located, what makes the pain worse, and what
makes it better. Your dentist will examine your mouth,
teeth, gums, jaws, tongue, throat, sinuses, ears, nose, and
neck.
X-rays may be taken as well as other tests, depending on
what your dentist suspects is causing your toothache.
What Treatments Are Available?
Treatment depends on the cause of your toothache. If a
cavity is causing the toothache, your dentist will fill
the cavity or possibly extract the tooth, if necessary. A
root canal might need to be performed if the cause of
the toothache is determined to be an infection of the
tooth's nerve. Bacteria that have worked their way into the
inner aspects of the tooth cause such an infection. An
antibiotic may be prescribed if there is fever or swelling
of the jaw. Phototherapy with a cold laser may be used to
reduce the pain and inflammation associated with the
toothache.
How Can Toothaches Be Prevented?
Since most toothaches are the result of
tooth decay, following good oral hygiene practices can
prevent toothaches. Good oral hygiene practices consist of
brushing regularly with a fluoride-containing toothpaste,
flossing once daily, and seeing your dentist twice a year
for professional cleaning. In addition to these practices,
eat foods low in sugar and ask your dentist about
sealants and fluoride applications.
Tooth decay is the destruction of tooth structure and can
affect both the enamel (the outer coating of the tooth) and
the dentin layer of the tooth.
Tooth decay occurs when foods containing carbohydrates
(sugars and starches) such as breads, cereals, milk, soda,
fruits, cakes, or candy are left on the teeth. Bacteria that
live in the mouth digest these foods, turning them into
acids. The bacteria, acid, food debris, and saliva combine
to form plaque, which clings to the teeth. The acids in
plaque dissolve the enamel surface of the teeth, creating
holes in the teeth called cavities, or caries
To prevent tooth decay:
-
Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a
fluoride-containing toothpaste. Preferably, brush after
each meal and especially before going to bed.
-
Clean between your teeth daily with dental floss or
interdental cleaners, such as the Oral-B Interdental
Brush, Reach Stim-U-Dent, or Sulcabrush.
-
Eat nutritious and balanced meals and limit snacks.
Avoid carbohydrates such as candy, pretzels and chips,
which can remain on the tooth surface. If sticky foods
are eaten, brush your teeth soon afterwards.
-
Check with your dentist about use of supplemental
fluoride, which strengthens your teeth.
-
Ask your dentist about dental sealants (a plastic
protective coating) applied to the chewing surfaces of
your back teeth (molars) to protect them from decay.
-
Drink fluoridated water. At least a pint of fluoridated
water each day is needed to protect children from tooth
decay.
-
Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings
and oral examination.
Researchers are developing new means to prevent tooth decay.
One study found that a chewing gum that contains the
sweetener xylitol temporarily retarded the growth of
bacteria that cause tooth decay. In addition, several
materials that slowly release fluoride over time, which will
help prevent further decay, are being explored. These
materials would be placed between teeth or in pits and
fissures of teeth. Toothpastes and mouth rinses that can
reverse and "heal" early cavities are also being studied
While piercing the tongue, lip or cheek may be attractive to
some, there are a number of health-related risks associated
with oral piercing, including:
-
Infections.
The wound created by piercing, the vast amount of
bacteria in the mouth, and the introduction of
additional bacteria from handling the jewelry all work
to increase the risk of infections.
-
Transmission of diseases. Oral piercing is
a potential risk factor for the transmission of herpes
simplex virus and hepatitis B and C.
-
Endocarditis.
Because of the wound created by the piercing, there's a
chance that bacteria could enter the bloodstream and
lead to the development of endocarditis – an
inflammation of the heart or its valves -- in certain
people with underlying (and often undiagnosed and
without symptoms) heart problems.
-
Nerve damage/prolonged bleeding.
Numbness or loss of sensation at the site of the
piercing or movement problems (for pierced tongues) can
occur if nerves have been damaged. If blood vessels are
punctured, prolonged bleeding can occur. Tongue swelling
following piercing can be severe enough to block the
airway and make breathing difficult.
-
Gum disease . People with oral
piercings – especially long-stem tongue jewelry
(barbells) -- have a greater risk of gum disease than
those without oral piercings. The jewelry can come into
contact with gum tissue causing injury as well as a
recession of the gum tissue – which can lead to loose
teeth and tooth loss.
-
Damage to teeth.
Teeth that come into contact with mouth jewelry can chip
or crack. One study in a dental journal reported that
47% of people wearing barbell tongue jewelry for 4 or
more years had at least one chipped tooth.
-
Difficulties in daily oral functions. Tongue
piercing can result in difficulty chewing and swallowing
food and speaking clearly. This is because the jewelry
stimulates an excessive production of saliva. Temporary
or permanent drooling is another consequence of
increased saliva production. Taste can also be altered.
-
Allergic reaction to metal. A
hypersensitivity reaction – called allergic contact
dermatitis -- to the metal in the jewelry can occur in
susceptible people.
-
Jewelry aspiration. Jewelry that
becomes loose in the mouth can become a choking hazard
and, if swallowed, can result in injury to the digestive
track or lungs.
If you have decided to go through with the oral piercing
procedure despite these risks, consider the following tips
when looking for an oral piercing studio.
-
Ask friends who have had their tongue, lips or cheeks
pierced – and have suffered no ill consequences – to
recommend the name of the studio they visited.
-
Visit the studio. Does the studio have a clean
appearance, especially the area where the piercing is
done? Ask if they use hospital-grade autoclaves for
sterilization and/or use disposable instruments. Does
the staff use disposable gloves?
-
Ask to see the studio's health certificates.
-
Are all the needles, as well as the studs, hoops, and
barbells, kept in sterilized packaging?
-
Are all staff members involved in the piercings
vaccinated against hepatitis B? They should be.
If the staff is not friendly or willing to answer all of
your questions, consider finding another piercing studio.
Caring for Your Oral Piercing at Home
A pierced tongue can take four to six weeks to heal. Pierced
lips take between one and two months to heal. During this
healing period, here's what you should do:
-
Avoid alcohol, spicy foods, and hard and sticky foods.
-
Don't smoke or use tobacco-based products.
-
Brush after every meal and rinse with a mouthwash, such
as Listerine.
-
Rinse your mouth frequently with warm salt water.
-
Eat soft foods. Consult with your dentist about taking
vitamins to promote faster healing.
-
Make an appointment with your dentist if you suspect a
problem or have a concern. It is critical for dentists
to check your teeth, gums, tongue and soft tissues for
early signs of any problems.
Warning Signs
If you notice any of the following warning signs, contact a
health care professional right away:
-
Yellow or green discharge from the piercing site (Note:
A whitish or clear discharge is normal)
-
Scarring or thickened tissue that builds up and darkens
around the piercing site
-
Increased redness, pain and tenderness, or swelling at
the piercing site
-
A pimple-like abscess on the piercing site
-
Bleeding or tearing after the initial healing of the
piercing
-
A low-grade fever that is persistent in the days
following piercing
Reviewed by the doctors at
The Cleveland Clinic Department of Dentistry.
X-rays help your dentist visualize diseases of the teeth and
surrounding tissue that cannot be seen with a simple oral
examination. In addition, X-rays help your dentist find and
treat dental problems early in their development, which can
potentially save you money, unnecessary discomfort, and
maybe even save your life.
What Types of Problems Can X-Rays Detect?
In adults, X-ray films can be used to:
-
Show areas of decay that may not be visible with an oral
examination, especially small areas of decay between
teeth
-
Identify decay occurring beneath an existing filling
-
Reveal bone loss that accompanies gum disease
-
Reveal changes in the bone or in the root canal
resulting from infection
-
Assist in the preparation of tooth implants, braces,
dentures, or other dental procedures
-
Reveal abscesses (an infection at the root of a tooth or
between the gum and a tooth)
-
Reveal other developmental abnormalities, such as cysts
and some types of tumors
In children, dental X-ray films are used to:
-
Watch for decay
-
Determine if there is enough space in the mouth to fit
all incoming teeth
-
Determine if primary teeth are being lost quickly enough
to allow permanent teeth to erupt properly
-
Check for the development of
wisdom teeth and identify if the teeth are impacted
(unable to emerge through the gums)
How Often Should Teeth Be X-Rayed?
The frequency of getting X-rays often depends on your
medical and dental history and current condition. Some
people may need X-rays as often as every six months; others
with no recent dental or gum disease and who visit their
dentist regularly may get X-rays only every couple of years.
If you are a new patient, your dentist may take X-rays as
part of the initial examination and to establish a baseline
record from which to compare changes that may occur over
time.
Some general guidelines your dentist may follow regarding
the frequency of dental X-rays is as follows:
Dental X-Ray Schedule for Children, Adolescents and Adults
|
|
New patients
|
Recall patient, high
risk (decay is present) |
Recall patient, no
decay, not at high risk for decay |
Current or history of
gum disease
|
Other comments
|
|
Children
(before eruption of first tooth) |
Bite-wing X-rays if the teeth are touching and all
surfaces cannot be visualized or probed |
Bite-wing X-rays taken every 6 months until no decay
is present |
Bite-wing X-rays taken every 12 to 24 months if the
teeth are touching and all surfaces cannot be
visualized or probed |
Selected periapicals and bite-wing X-rays of areas
where disease is seen in the mouth |
X-rays to check for growth and development are
usually not indicated at this age |
|
Adolescents
(before eruption of wisdom teeth) |
Bite-wing X-rays plus periapicals or occlusal views
or bite-wing X-rays plus panoramic view. A
full-mouth series is indicated when there is
evidence of dental disease or history of extensive
decay. |
Bite-wing X-rays taken every 6 to 12 months until no
decay is present |
Bite-wing X-rays taken every 18 to 36 months |
Selected periapicals and bite-wing X-rays of areas
where disease is seen in the mouth |
Periapical or panoramic X-rays should be taken to
check for development of wisdom teeth |
|
Adults with teeth
|
Bite-wing X-rays and selected periapicals. A
full-mouth series is indicated when there is
evidence of dental disease or history of extensive
decay. |
Bite-wing X-rays taken every 12 to 18 months |
Bite-wing X-rays taken every 24 to 36 months |
Selected periapicals and bite-wing X-rays of areas
where disease is seen in the mouth |
X-rays to check for growth and development are
usually not indicated. |
|
Adults without teeth
|
Full-mouth series or panoramic X-rays. Other X-rays
are usually not indicated unless specific dental
disease is clinically present. |
|
|
|
|
People who fall into the high risk category who may need
X-ray films taken more frequently include:
-
Children.
Children generally need more X-rays than adults because
their teeth and jaws are still developing and because
their teeth are more likely to be affected by tooth
decay.
-
Adults with extensive restorative work, such as fillings
to look for decay beneath existing fillings or in new
locations.
-
People who drink a lot of sugary beverages
to look for tooth decay (since the sugary environment
creates a perfect situation for cavities to develop).
-
People with periodontal (gum) disease
to monitor bone loss.
-
People who have dry mouth whether due to
medications (such as antidepressants, antianxiety drugs,
antihistamines, and others) or disease states (such as
Sjögren's syndrome, damaged salivary glands, radiation
treatment to head and neck).
Dry mouth conditions can lead to the development of
cavities.
-
Smokers
to monitor bone loss resulting from
periodontal disease (smokers are at increased risk
of periodontal disease).
-back to top-
How Safe Are X-Rays?
Exposure to all sources of radiation -- including the sun,
minerals in the soil, appliances in your home, and dental
X-rays -- can damage the body's tissues and cells and can
lead to the development of cancer in some instances.
Fortunately, the dose of radiation you are exposed to during
the taking of dental X-rays is extremely small.
Advances in dentistry over the years have lead to a number
of measures that will minimize the risks associated with
X-rays. However, even with the advancements in safety, the
effects of radiation are added together over a lifetime. So
every little bit of radiation you receive from all sources
counts.
If you are concerned about radiation exposure due to X-rays,
talk to your dentist about how often X-rays are needed and
why they are being taken. While some people need X-rays
taken more frequently, current guidelines require that
X-rays be given only when needed for clinical diagnosis.
Bad breath is embarrassing, unpleasant, and all too common.
These eight easy tips will sweeten your breath for good.
We've all found ourselves chatting with someone whose breath
could easily wilt a flower. With more than 90 million people
suffering from chronic bad breath (also called halitosis),
that's a lot of wilted flowers. If you (or someone you
regularly smooch) has an attack of bad breath that even
Altoids won't fix, try these eight simple tips to fix the
problem.
Don't let your tongue become a dirty carpet.
Bad breath often strikes when people aren't properly taking
care of their oral health. The odor is usually caused by
decaying food particles and bacteria in your mouth. That's
why brushing and flossing your teeth is so important, but
don't forget to gently brush your tongue to get rid of even
more bacteria.
A clean tongue goes a long way to warding off bad breath.
"Your tongue microscopically is like a shaggy carpet. There
are millions of filaments on your tongue that trap tiny food
particles and bacteria," he says. Get in the habit of
regularly cleaning your tongue using a toothbrush, the edge
of a spoon, or a tongue cleaner. If you have any mouth
guards or oral devices, make sure to clean them thoroughly
before putting them back in your mouth.
Mouthwash isn't a bad idea, but it's only a temporary fix.
Granted, a little mouthwash comes in handy before a romantic
dinner for two, but it masks the odor instead of tackling
the source of your problem.
Chew gum like it's going out of style.
Believe it or not, saliva is your best weapon against bad
breath. That's why dry mouth, often caused by certain
medications or medical conditions, leads to odor problems.
By washing away food particles and bacteria, saliva helps to
eliminate odor, too.
If you're wondering why your breath stinks in the morning,
it's largely because saliva production slows while you
sleep, allowing particles and odor to linger longer. That's
where sugarless gum comes in handy, as chewing it will
stimulate saliva production. Mints, on the other hand, don't
usually stimulate saliva production and only temporarily
mask bad odor.
"When you chew gum it makes you salivate, and the more
saliva you have in your mouth the fewer bacteria you have.
It not only mechanically washes bacteria out, but we have
antiseptic and enzymes in our saliva that kill bacteria,"
says Wolner.
While anything that makes you salivate will improve your
breath, a gum that is sweetened with xylitol is your best
option. Xylitol is a sugar substitute that not only
increases salvation but also works to prevent bacteria from
replicating in the mouth.
Choose cinnamon -- it's sweeter.
A recent study of the cinnamon-flavored gum Big Red found
that cinnamon might have breath-odor fighting abilities.
Unlike other flavors, cinnamon is not just a cover-up,
Wolner tells WebMD. In fact, he says, an ingredient in the
flavoring appears to actually decrease the bacteria in your
mouth. The only problem is that sugar gums are bad for your
teeth, so stick to sugarless cinnamon-flavored gum instead.
Drink more water.
The older you get the more likely you are to get dehydrated.
You might not even notice you're thirsty, he says, so make
drinking water a habit, because water will help keep the
bacteria in your mouth to a minimum. Drinking water has a
lot of health benefits, and preventing bad breath is one of
them.
Rule out rare causes for bad breath.
While most bad breath can be banished with simple hygienic
steps, there are times when dental or medical conditions
might be the culprit. Make an appointment with your dentist
if an unsavory odor takes residence in your mouth.
"If there is a persistent odor in your mouth, and you know
it's not from the pasta you ate last night, see a dentist,"
Wolner tells WebMD. Your dentist will be able to pinpoint
any cavities or decay, or even periodontal (gum) disease,
that might be causing your bad breath.
Because on rare occasions bad breath can signal a larger
problem, including infection, and even kidney or liver
failure, you should also visit a doctor if your dentist
doesn't find a cause for your bad breath problem.
Have a slice of bread.
If you're on one of the many popular low-carb diets,
remember that bad breath or "ketone breath" is a potential
side effect when you always have that burger sans bun. You
can try different methods of masking the odor, such as gum
or tart candies, but adding a few carbs to your daily diet
might also do the trick.
Get a water pick.
You can't really clean your entire mouth with a toothbrush.
"Using an irrigator or water pick cleans everything out
around and under your gums and between your teeth," says
Wolner. "If food lingers between your teeth where a
toothbrush doesn't reach, it's fermenting." Next time you
floss, take a whiff of your floss after you're done, and
you'll have a good idea about what fermented or rotten food
particles smell like.
Don't let bad breath go to your head.
If you think you have bad breath, get a second opinion. "A
large proportion of people who think they're social pariahs
with terrible breath don't have bad breath at all," says
Wolner.
Oral Cancer
Cancer is defined as the uncontrollable growth of cells that
invade and cause damage to surrounding tissue. Oral cancer
appears as a growth or sore in the mouth that does not go
away. Oral cancer, which includes cancers of the lips,
tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate,
sinuses, and pharynx (throat), can be life threatening if
not diagnosed and treated early.
What Are the Symptoms of Oral Cancer?
The most common signs of oral cancer include:
-
Swellings/thickenings, lumps or bumps, rough
spots/crusts/or eroded areas on the lips, gums or other
areas inside the mouth.
-
The development of velvety white, red, or speckled
(white and red) patches in the mouth.
-
Unexplained bleeding in the mouth.
-
Unexplained numbness, loss of feeling, or
pain/tenderness in any area of the face, mouth, or neck.
-
Persistent sores on the face, neck, or mouth that bleed
easily and do not heal within 2 weeks.
-
A soreness or feeling that something is caught in the
back of the throat.
-
Difficulty chewing or swallowing, speaking, or moving
the jaw or tongue.
-
Hoarseness, chronic sore throat, or change in voice.
-
Ear pain.
-
A change in the way your teeth or dentures fit together.
-
Dramatic weight loss.
If you notice any of these changes, contact your dentist or
health care professional immediately for a professional
examination.
-back to top-
Who Gets Oral Cancer?
According to the American Cancer Society, men face twice the
risk of developing oral cancer as women, and men who are
over age 50 face the greatest risk. In fact, oral cancer is
the sixth most common cancer among men.
Risk factors for the development of oral cancer include:
-
Smoking.
Cigarette, cigar, or pipe smokers are six times more
likely than nonsmokers to develop oral cancers.
-
Smokeless tobacco users. Users of dip,
snuff, or chewing tobacco products are 50 times more
likely to develop cancers of the cheek, gums and lining
of the lips.
-
Excessive consumption of alcohol. Oral
cancers are about six times more common in drinkers than
in nondrinkers.
-
Family history of cancer.
-
Excessive sun exposure, especially at a
young age.
It is important to note that over 25% of all oral cancers
occur in people who do not smoke and who only drink alcohol
occasionally.
What Is the Outlook for People With Oral Cancer?
The overall 1-year survival rate for patients with all
stages of oral cavity and pharynx cancers is 81%. The 5- and
10-year survival rates are 56% and 41%, respectively.
How Is Oral Cancer Diagnosed?
As part of your routine dental examination, your dentist
will conduct an oral cancer screening exam. More
specifically, your dentist will feel for any lumps or
irregular tissue changes in your neck, head, face, and oral
cavity. When examining your mouth, your dentist will look
for any sores or discolored tissue as well as check for any
signs and symptoms mentioned above.
Your dentist may perform an oral brush biopsy if he or she
sees tissue in your mouth that looks suspicious. This test
is painless and involves taking a small sample of the tissue
and analyzing it for abnormal cells. Alternatively, if the
tissue looks more suspicious, your dentist may recommend a
scalpel biopsy. This procedure usually requires local
anesthesia and may be performed by your dentist or a
specialist. These tests are necessary to detect oral cancer
early, before it has had a chance to progress and spread.
How Is Oral Cancer Treated?
Oral cancer is treated the same way many other cancers are
treated; that is with surgery to remove the cancerous growth
followed by radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy (drug
treatments) to destroy any remaining cancer cells.
What Can I Do to Prevent Oral Cancer?
-
Don't smoke or use any tobacco products and drink
alcohol in moderation (and refrain from binge drinking).
-
Eat a well balanced diet.
-
Limit your exposure to the sun. Repeated exposure
increases the risk of cancer on the lip, especially the
lower lip. When in the sun, use UV-A/B-blocking sun
protective lotions on your skin as well as your lips.
You can take an active role in detecting oral cancer early,
should it occur by doing the following:
-
Conduct a self exam at least once a month.
Using a bright light and a mirror, look and feel your
lips and front of your gums. Tilt your head back and
look at and feel the roof of your mouth. Pull your
checks out to view the inside of your mouth, the lining
of your cheeks, and the back gums. Pull out your tongue
and look at all surfaces; examine the floor of your
mouth. Look at the back of your throat. Feel for lumps
or enlarged lymph nodes in both sides of your neck and
under your lower jaw. Call your dentist's office
immediately if you notice any changes in the appearance
of your mouth or any of the signs and symptoms mentioned
above.
-
See your dentist on a regular schedule.
Even though you may be conducting frequent self exams,
sometimes dangerous spots or sores in the mouth can be
very tiny and difficult to see on your own. The American
Cancer Society recommends oral cancer screening exams
every 3 years for persons over age 20 and annually for
those over age 40. During your next dental appointment,
ask your dentist to perform an oral exam. Early
detection can improve the chance of successful
treatment.
Abscessed Tooth
An abscessed tooth is a painful infection at the root of a
tooth or between the gum and a tooth. It's most commonly
caused by severe tooth decay. Other causes of tooth abscess
are trauma to the tooth, such as when it is broken or
chipped, and
gingivitis or gum disease.
These problems can cause openings in the tooth enamel, which
allows bacteria to infect the center of the tooth (called
the pulp). The infection may also spread from the root of
the tooth to the bones supporting the tooth.
What Are the Symptoms of an Abscessed Tooth?
A toothache that is severe and continuous and results in
gnawing or throbbing pain or sharp or shooting pain are
common symptoms of an abscessed tooth. Other symptoms may
include:
-
Fever
-
Pain when chewing
-
Sensitivity of the teeth to hot or cold
-
Bitter taste in the mouth
-
Foul smell to the breath
-
Swollen neck glands
-
General discomfort, uneasiness, or ill feeling
-
Redness and swelling of the gums
-
Swollen area of the upper or lower jaw
-
An open, draining sore on the side of the gum
If the root of the tooth dies as a result of infection, the
toothache may stop. However, this doesn't mean the infection
has healed; the infection remains active and continues to
spread and destroy tissue. Therefore, if you experience any
of the above listed symptoms, it is important to see a
dentist even if the pain subsides.
How Is an Abscessed Tooth Diagnosed?
Your dentist will probe your teeth with a dental instrument.
If you have an abscessed tooth, you will feel pain when the
tooth is tapped by your dentist's probe. Your dentist will
also ask you if your pain increases when you bite down or
when you close your mouth tightly. In addition, your dentist
may suspect an abscessed tooth because your gums may be
swollen and red.
Your dentist may also take
X-rays to look for erosion of the bone around the
abscess.
How Is an Abscessed Tooth Treated?
Strategies to eliminate the infection, preserve the tooth,
and prevent complications are the goals of treatment.
To eliminate infection, the abscess may need to be drained.
Achieving drainage may be done through the tooth by a
procedure known as a
root canal. Root canal surgery may also be recommended
to remove any diseased root tissue after the infection has
subsided. Then, a
crown may be placed over the tooth.
The tooth may also be extracted, allowing drainage through
the socket.
Finally, a third way to drain the abscess would be by
incision into the swollen gum tissue.
Antibiotics are prescribed to help fight the infection. To
relieve the pain and discomfort associated with an abscessed
tooth, warm salt-water rinses and over-the-counter
pain-reducing medication like ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin)
can be used.
The inflammation and pain of abscesses can be relieved with
a low-level laser, making the patient more comfortable to
receive the injection in a more painless way.
-back to top-
Can an Abscessed Tooth Be Prevented?
Following good oral hygiene practices can reduce the risk of
developing a tooth abscess. Also, if your teeth experience
trauma (for example, become loosened or chipped), seek
prompt dental attention.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Most people probably grind and clench their teeth from time
to time. Occasional teeth grinding, medically called
bruxism, does not usually cause harm, but when teeth
grinding occurs on a regular basis the teeth can be damaged
and other complications can arise.
Why Do People Grind Their Teeth?
Although teeth grinding can be caused by stress and anxiety,
it often occurs during sleep and is more likely caused by an
abnormal bite or missing or crooked teeth.
How Do I Find Out if I Grind My Teeth?
Because grinding often occurs during sleep, most people are
unaware that they grind their teeth. However, a dull,
constant headache or sore jaw is a telltale symptom of
bruxism. Many times people learn that they grind their teeth
by their loved one who hears the grinding at night.
If you suspect you may be grinding your teeth, talk to your
dentist. He or she can examine your mouth and jaw for signs
of bruxism, such as jaw tenderness and abnormalities in your
teeth.
Why Is Teeth Grinding Harmful?
In some cases, chronic teeth grinding can result in a
fracturing, loosening, or loss of teeth. The chronic
grinding may wear their teeth down to stumps. When these
events happen,
bridges,
crowns,
root canals,
implants, partial dentures, and even complete
dentures may be needed.
Not only can severe grinding damage teeth and result in
tooth loss, it can also affect your jaws, result in hearing
loss, cause or worsen
TMD/TMJ, and even change the appearance of your face.
What Can I Do to Stop Grinding My Teeth?
Your dentist can fit you with a
mouth guard to protect your teeth during sleep.
If stress is causing you to grind your teeth, ask your
doctor or dentist about options to reduce your stress.
Attending stress counseling, starting an exercise program,
seeing a physical therapist or obtaining a prescription for
muscle relaxants are among some of the options that may be
offered.
Other tips to help you stop teeth grinding include:
·
Avoid or cut back on
foods and drinks that contain caffeine, such as colas,
chocolate, and coffee.
-
Avoid alcohol. Grinding tends to intensify after alcohol
consumption.
-
Do not chew on pencils or pens or anything that is not
food. Avoid chewing gum as it allows your jaw muscles to
get more used to clenching and makes you more likely to
grind your teeth.
-
Train yourself not to clench or grind your teeth. If you
notice that you clench or grind during the day, position
the tip of your tongue between your teeth. This practice
trains your jaw muscles to relax.
-
Relax your jaw muscles at night by holding a warm
washcloth against your cheek in front of your earlobe.
Do Children Grind Their Teeth?
The problem of teeth grinding is not limited to adults.
Approximately 15% to 33% of children grind their teeth.
Children who grind their teeth tend to do so at two peak
times – when their baby teeth emerge and when their
permanent teeth come in. Most children lose the teeth
grinding habit after these two sets of teeth have come in
more fully.
Most commonly, children grind their teeth during sleep
rather than during waking hours. No one knows exactly why
children grind their teeth but considerations include
improperly aligned teeth or irregular contact between upper
and lower teeth, illnesses and other medical conditions
(such as nutritional deficiencies, pinworm, allergies,
endocrine disorders) and psychological factors including
anxiety and stress.
Grinding of the baby teeth rarely results in problems.
However, teeth grinding can cause jaw pain, headaches, wear
on the teeth and
TMD. Consult your dentist if your child's teeth look
worn or if your child complains of tooth sensitivity or
pain.
Specific tips to help a child stop grinding his or her teeth
include:
·
Decrease your child's
stress, especially just before bed.
-
Try massage and stretching exercises to relax the
muscles.
-
Make sure your child's diet includes plenty of water.
Dehydration may be linked to teeth grinding.
-
Ask your dentist to monitor your child's teeth if he or
she is a grinder.
No intervention is usually required with preschool-age
children. However, older children may need temporary crowns
or other methods, such as a night guard, to prevent the
grinding.
Pericoronitis is a dental disorder in which the gum tissue
around the molar teeth becomes swollen and infected. This
disorder usually occurs as a result of wisdom teeth, the
third and final set of molars that most people get in their
late teens or early twenties.
What Causes Pericoronitis?
Pericoronitis can develop when wisdom teeth only partially
erupt (break through the gum). This allows an opening for
bacteria to enter around the tooth and cause an infection.
In cases of pericoronitis, food or plaque (a bacterial film
that remains on teeth after eating) may get caught
underneath a flap of gum around the tooth. If it remains
there, it can irritate the gum and lead to pericoronitis. If
the pericoronitis is severe, the swelling and infection may
extend beyond the jaw to the cheeks and neck.
What Are the Symptoms of Pericoronitis?
-
Pain
-
Infection
-
Swelling in the gum tissue (caused by an accumulation of
fluid)
-
A "bad taste" in the mouth (caused by pus leaking from
the gums)
-
Swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck
-
Difficulty opening the mouth
How Is Pericoronitis Diagnosed?
Your dentist will examine your wisdom teeth and how they are
coming in, and see if any are partially erupted. He or she
may take an X-ray periodically to determine the alignment of
the wisdom teeth. Your dentist will also take note of any
symptoms such as swelling or infection, and will check for
the presence of a gum flap around a wisdom tooth.
How Is Pericoronitis Treated?
If the pericoronitis is limited to the tooth (for example,
if the pain and swelling has not spread), treat it by
rinsing your mouth with warm salt water. You should also
make sure that the gum flap has no food trapped under it.
If your tooth, jaw and cheek are swollen and painful, see
your dentist right away. He or she can treat the infection
with antibiotics (usually penicillin, unless you are
allergic). You can also take pain relievers such as aspirin,
acetaminophen, or ibuprofen. The dentist may also prescribe
a pain medication.
If the pain and inflammation are severe, or if the
pericoronitis recurs, oral surgery to have the gum flap or
wisdom tooth removed may be necessary. Your dentist can make
the appropriate referral to the oral and maxillofacial
surgeon. A low-level laser can be used to reduce pain and
inflammation associated with pericoronitis.
-back to top-
Gum problems
and
the Symptoms of Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease may progress painlessly, producing few
obvious signs, even in the late stages of the disease.
Although the symptoms of periodontal disease often are
subtle, the condition is not entirely without warning signs.
Certain symptoms may point to some form of the disease. They
include:
-
Gums that bleed during and after tooth brushing
-
Red, swollen, or tender gums
-
Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
-
Receding gums
-
Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums
-
Loose or shifting teeth
-
Changes in the way teeth fit together upon biting down,
or in the fit of partial dentures.
Even if you don't notice any symptoms, you may still have
some degree of gum disease. In some people, gum disease may
affect only certain teeth, such as the molars. Only a
dentist or a periodontist can recognize and determine the
progression of gum disease.
How Does My Dentist Diagnose Periodontal Disease?
During a periodontal exam, your dentist or periodontist
typically checks for these things:
-
Gum bleeding, swelling, firmness, and pockets (the space
between the gum and tooth; the larger and deeper the
pocket, the more severe the disease)
-
Teeth movement and sensitivity and proper teeth
alignment
-
Your jawbone to help detect the breakdown of bone
surrounding your teeth
How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?
The goals of periodontal treatment are to promote
reattachment of healthy gums to teeth; reduce swelling, the
depth of pockets, and the risk of infection; and to stop
disease progression. Treatment options depend on the stage
of disease, how you may have responded to earlier
treatments, and your overall health. Options range from
nonsurgical therapies that control bacterial growth to
surgery to restore supportive tissues. A full description of
the various treatment options is provided in
Gum Disease Treatments.
How Can Gingivitis Be Prevented?
Gingivitis can be reversed in nearly all cases when proper
plaque control is practiced. Proper plaque control consists
of professional cleanings at least twice a year and daily
brushing and flossing. Brushing eliminates plaque from the
surfaces of the teeth that can be reached; flossing removes
food particles and plaque from in between the teeth and
under the gum line.
Other health and lifestyle changes that will decrease the
risk, severity, and speed of gum disease development
include:
-
Stop smoking.
Tobacco use is a significant risk factor for development
of periodontitis. Smokers are seven times more likely to
get periodontitis than nonsmokers, and smoking can lower
the chances of success of some treatments.
-
Reduce stress.
Stress may make it difficult for your body's immune
system to fight off infection.
-
Maintain a well-balanced diet. Proper nutrition
helps your immune system fight infection. Eating foods
with antioxidant properties, for example, those
containing vitamin E or vitamin C (vitamin E-containing
foods include vegetable oils, nuts, green leafy
vegetables; vitamin C-containing foods include citrus
fruits, broccoli, potatoes) can help your body repair
damaged tissue.
-
Avoid clenching and grinding your teeth. These
actions may put excess force on the supporting tissues
of the teeth and could increase the rate at which these
tissues are destroyed.
Despite following good oral hygiene practices and making
other healthy lifestyle choices, the American Academy of
Periodontology says that up to 30% of the Americans may be
genetically susceptible to gum disease. And those who are
genetically predisposed may be up to six times more likely
to develop some form of gum disease. If anyone in your
family has gum disease, it may mean that you are at greater
risk as well. If you are more susceptible to gum disease,
your dentist or periodontist may recommend more frequent
check-ups, cleanings, and treatments to better manage the
condition.
Is Periodontal Disease Linked to Other Health Problems?
According to the CDC, researchers have uncovered potential
links between periodontal disease and other serious health
conditions. In people with healthy immune systems, the
bacteria in the mouth that makes its way into the
bloodstream is usually harmless. But under certain
circumstances, the CDC says these microorganisms are
associated with health problems such as stroke and heart
disease. Diabetes is not only a risk factor for periodontal
disease, but periodontal disease may make diabetes worse.
|
