The Relationship Between Gum Disease and Heart Issues
In terms of our health, many people view the mouth and its components as separate from the rest of the body. However, research has shown a relationship between the presence of gum disease and heart conditions, including infections and atherosclerosis. It’s thought that accumulated bacteria from gum disease eventually travels throughout the body and causes…
What Happens If You Leave a Cavity Untreated?
Health concerns like pain, swelling and pus should not be ignored. Inside your mouth, these symptoms often indicate a cavity in varying stages of decay. The progression of decay may cause an infection to spread to multiple teeth, your jawbone or blood. Rather than leaving an untreated cavity to fester, here’s what you should keep…
Should You Rinse with Water After Brushing?
Many of us were taught specific dental habits growing up: Brush your teeth, spit out the toothpaste, then rinse with water before flossing and using mouthwash. Yet these practices have recently come into question. Most dentists recommend flossing before brushing, as it leaves fewer remaining particles, and to skip rinsing with water after brushing. Learn…
What Should You Know About Teeth Grinding?
Bruxism is the medical term for teeth grinding. Patients with this condition have a long-term pattern of clenching and rubbing their teeth together. This behavior may occur throughout the day in response to stress or during sleep, which is classified as a movement disorder. Treatment options vary and can depend on other preexisting conditions. When…
What’s the Right Way to Brush Your Teeth?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes per session. This dental hygiene practice helps control plaque and bacterial buildup on your teeth and tongue, which can contribute to gum disease, gingivitis and tooth decay. Yet not all methods for brushing are identical. Certain approaches are…