Dental and Oral Care Tips

Oct 03 Comments Off

The Truth About Tooth Sensitivity: Causes, Management, and Prevention

Posted by drprashantiyer1

At Sree Venkateswara Dental Clinics, with our extensive experience in treating various oral health conditions, one issue that we often encounter in our practice is ‘tooth sensitivity’. Many individuals suffer from the discomfort and pain associated with sensitive teeth, which can significantly impact their daily lives. In this article, we will shed light on the common causes of tooth sensitivity and provide valuable tips for managing and preventing this dental concern.

Understanding Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity, also known as dentin hypersensitivity, is characterized by a sharp, often sudden pain or discomfort in response to certain stimuli. These triggers can include hot or cold foods and beverages, sweet or sour items, and even cold air. This condition occurs when the protective enamel on the outer surface of the tooth is compromised, exposing the sensitive inner layers of dentin and nerve endings.

Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity can stem from various factors, and identifying the root cause is crucial for effective management. Here are some of the most common causes:

Worn Tooth Enamel: Over time, tooth enamel can become worn down due to aggressive brushing, tooth grinding (bruxism), or the consumption of highly acidic foods and beverages.
Tooth Decay: Cavities or dental caries can erode the enamel and expose the inner layers of the tooth, leading to sensitivity.
Gum Recession: Receding gums can expose the tooth’s roots, which are not protected by enamel, making them vulnerable to sensitivity.
Tooth Whitening Products: Some individuals may experience temporary sensitivity after using tooth whitening products or undergoing professional teeth whitening procedures. This is mostly temporary and will soon go away with time.
Cracked or Chipped Teeth: Damage to the tooth structure can create pathways for sensitivity triggers to reach the nerve endings.
Dental Procedures: Following certain dental treatments like fillings, crowns, or orthodontic adjustments, some individuals may experience temporary tooth sensitivity. Again this is a temporary condition and will soon go away once the patient adjusts to the dental procedure.
Acidic Diet: Frequent consumption of acidic foods and beverages can contribute to enamel erosion and tooth sensitivity.

Managing and Preventing Tooth Sensitivity

Whether you’re already experiencing tooth sensitivity or aiming to prevent it, there are practical steps you can take to safeguard your oral health:

Gentle Oral Care: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and practice gentle brushing techniques to minimize enamel wear. Whether you’re managing or preventing sensitivity, brushing too aggressively can exacerbate the issue.
Dietary Choices: Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium to support strong teeth. Additionally, limit acidic foods and beverages, as excessive acidity can erode enamel, contributing to sensitivity in both cases.
Fluoride Treatments: These can strengthen tooth enamel, making your teeth less susceptible to sensitivity and offering relief for those already experiencing it.
Mouthguards for Bruxism or Teeth Clenching: If you grind your teeth, consider getting a custom-made mouthguard from your dentist. It serves as a protective barrier, preventing further enamel damage and reducing sensitivity while also acting as a preventive measure.
Addressing Gum Recession: Seek guidance from your dentist on treatments to address gum recession. These treatments can protect exposed tooth roots, reducing sensitivity in existing cases and preventing it from developing.
Crowns and Bridges: Your dentist may recommend dental crowns and bridges to address issues like chipped or broken teeth, ensuring that further damage is prevented, and the tooth’s lifespan is extended.
Regular Dental Check-ups: Routine dental visits are essential for identifying and addressing issues like gum recession, chipped teeth, cavities or fracture lines on teeth that may lead to sensitivity. This proactive approach is vital for both managing and preventing tooth sensitivity.

By adopting these practices, you can effectively manage tooth sensitivity if you’re already experiencing it, while also taking proactive steps to prevent it from becoming a recurring issue in the future. At Sree Venkateswara Dental Clinics, we provide personalized guidance and treatment options to address your specific needs and concerns related to tooth sensitivity. So, if you feel that you are suffering from sensitive teeth, call us to book an appointment for your next dental check-up.

Sep 10 4

The Importance of Regular Dental Check-ups: What You Need to Know?

Posted by drprashantiyer1

When it comes to maintaining good overall health, most people think of a balanced diet and regular exercise. However, there’s an essential aspect that often goes overlooked: dental health. Your oral well-being is closely linked to your overall health, and one of the key pillars of dental care is regular dental check-ups with your dentist.

Regular dental check-ups play a crucial role in the early detection of dental problems. Dental issues like cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer often start with subtle symptoms that only a trained dentist can identify. By visiting your dentist regularly, these issues can be caught in their infancy, making treatment less invasive, more effective and less expensive.

Why Are Regular Dental Check-ups Incredibly Important?

1. Early Detection Saves Money and Pain:
Early detection of dental issues not only saves you from excruciating pain but also spares your wallet. The cost of treating a small cavity is significantly lower than dealing with a large one or a tooth infection. In fact, a study by the Indian Dental Association found that going for regular preventive dental care, can save between 1000 INR to 7000 INR in restorative and emergency treatments.

2. Preventing Tooth Loss in Elders:
Did you know that tooth loss isn’t just a natural part of aging? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 1 in 4 adults aged 65 or older have lost most of their natural teeth. Regular check-ups help catch issues like gum disease and decay early, significantly reducing the risk of tooth loss. Keeping your natural teeth has aesthetic, functional, and psychological benefits.

3. Preventing Tooth Decay:
Regular check-ups help prevent tooth decay. Your dentist can spot signs of decay and recommend preventive measures like dental sealants or fluoride treatments. They can also provide guidance on proper oral hygiene practices to keep your teeth strong and healthy.

4. Gum Disease’s Sneaky Impact:
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is the most common cause of tooth loss if left untreated. The American Academy of Periodontology warns that gum disease can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health issues. Regular check-ups allow your dentist to monitor the health of your gums, provide deep cleanings, and offer guidance on how to prevent gum disease, tooth loss and minimize these associated risks.

5. Oral Cancer Statistics Speak Volumes:
Oral cancer can be a silent killer, but early detection dramatically improves survival rates. The Oral Cancer Foundation reports that when discovered in its early stages, oral cancer has an 80-90% survival rate. However, late-stage detection drops that rate to only 30%. Regular oral cancer screenings during dental check-ups can make all the difference.

6. Oral Health and Systemic Health are Linked:
Your mouth is not isolated from the rest of your body. Numerous studies, including research published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology, have shown links between poor oral health and conditions like diabetes, respiratory diseases, and pregnancy complications. By maintaining good oral health through regular check-ups, you’re actively contributing to your overall well-being.

7. Longevity and Quality of Life:
A study published in the Journal of Aging Research found that maintaining good oral health through regular dental check-ups can extend your lifespan. Additionally, having a healthy mouth ensures you can continue to enjoy your favorite foods, maintain proper nutrition, and speak clearly as you age.

8. Dental Health’s Influence on Confidence:
Your smile is often the first thing people notice about you, and it plays a significant role in your self-confidence. According to a survey by the Indian Association of Orthodontists, one-third of Indians are unhappy with their smile. Regular dental check-ups help keep your smile looking its best, boosting your confidence and improving your social interactions.

How Often Should You See Your Dentist?

The frequency of dental check-ups can vary from person to person, but as a general rule of thumb, most individuals should visit their dentist every six months. However, if you have specific dental issues or a history of dental problems, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits.

What to Expect During a Dental Check-up:

During a typical dental check-up, you can expect the following:

1. Examination: Your dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and mouth for any signs of problems.

2. X-Rays: Periodic X-rays may be taken to check for hidden issues not visible during the visual examination.

3. Treatment Plan: Your dentist will discuss any issues they find and recommend treatments or preventive measures.

In Conclusion: Regular dental check-ups are not just about keeping your smile beautiful; they are a crucial component of your overall health. By visiting Sree Venkateswara Dental Clinics every six months, you can catch dental issues early, prevent decay, and maintain your overall well-being. Don’t neglect this essential aspect of healthcare, as it can have a significant impact on your quality of life. So, mark your calendar for your next dental check-up, and take a proactive step towards a healthier smile and a healthier you.

Feb 17 Comments Off

Bleeding from Gums? An Ominous Sign of Poor Oral Health!

Posted by drprashantiyer1

We often see advertisements on Television of a person biting into an apple and seeing blood stains on it. Yes, that is exactly what bleeding from gums look like. One of the most common ailments these days and often the most neglected one also – 60% of Adult population suffers from bleeding gums. Unfortunately, 1 in 3 people think that bleeding from gums or that occasional blood that we see while brushing is normal – IT IS NOT!

We overlook our dental health and even neglect it at times until we feel pain – bleeding gums is an early indication of a more severe oral issue. While caring for your teeth is important, many people forget the value of caring for their gums as an important part of maintaining good oral health. Gums are the foundation of a healthy mouth since gums provide important support for your teeth. Bleeding gums can be a sign of gum disease.

Lots of patients ask the question on how this bleeding from the gums started suddenly? Bleeding from the gums never starts abruptly (unless there is a trauma). There is a dynamic equilibrium between Gingival bacteria and the host defense mechanism. When this balance tilts (mostly due to poor oral hygiene) bleeding starts.

ORAL FACTORS

1) Gingivitis – Inflammation of the gingiva (gums) caused due to build-up of plaque at the gum line. When the condition worsens this gingivitis progresses to Periodontitis.

2) Periodontitis – When inflammation involves not just the gums but also the periodontal ligaments and alveolar bone leading to its resorption and the associated loosening or mobility of teeth.

3) Trauma – accident of injury to the gum tissues.

4) Hard Brushing – damage the gingival papillae (gum margin).

5) Ill Fitting Dental Prothesis and Over-hanging Restorations (Fillings).

6) Oral cysts and Tumours are also known to induce bleeding from the gums.

7) Bruxism – Teeth clenching (Read more here: svdentalclinics.com/2019/02/clenching-your-teeth-while-youre-asleep-not-a-good-sign-for-you/)

SYSTEMIC FACTORS:

1) Stress – Any stress, be it physical, emotional or psychological.

2) Smoking

3) Sleep Deprivation – under 6 hours of sleep.

4) Bleeding Disorders – like Vit K deficiency.

5) Pregnancy

6) Diabetes

7) Some medications like warfarin and dilantin cause excessive bleeding from gums.

Here are some oral hygiene tips that will help you keep your entire mouth healthier and help prevent or reduce gum bleeding. However, it is advised to see your dentist at the first sign of bleeding gums. He will evaluate your condition and prescribe the best treatment for your case.

Some Simple Steps to Prevent or Improve Bleeding Gums:

1) Brushing –When Bleeding from Gums occurs due to poor oral hygiene, the resumption of proper brushing and flossing routine can show a marked improvement.

2) Warm Saline Gargles – Before bedtime. You can read more about the benefits of Warm Saline Gargles (W.S.G.) here: https://svdentalclinics.com/2018/04/6-reasons-why-warm-saline-gargles-are-a-must-for-good-oral-health/

3) Gargles with Diluted Hydrogen Peroxide – After meals.

4) Visiting your dentist every 6 months – so that early signs of gingivitis can be detected and properly dealt with.

5) In case bleeding from the gums is due to any of the above-mentioned systemic factors, a consultation with your physician is advised.

Bleeding gums are a warning and a sign of imbalance in the oral cavity. The Key is to restore the balance. We at Sree Venkateswara Dental Clinics, firmly endorse the age old saying healthy mouth equals healthy body. So, take good care of your gums and if you notice any bleeding – take action.

Sree Venkateswara Dental Clinics
I.N.A. | Munirka Enclave | Noida
Restoring Smiles since 1973…

Apr 15 Comments Off

6 Reasons Why Warm Saline Gargles are a Must for Good Oral Health!

Posted by drprashantiyer1

For many years Warm Saline Gargles (W.S.G.) have been advocated by dentists all over the world as a simple yet effective tool for maintaining good oral health. Doing gargles by adding a pinch of salt mixed in a glass (200 ml) of warm water everyday aids in maintaining a healthy mouth and also soothes the throat and reduces upper respiratory tract infection owing to the antibacterial properties of salt. Although the advancement in Dentistry has been unprecedented over the last few years, yet Warm Saline Gargles have retained its importance due to its convenience and the long list of benefits. In today’s times when a majority of mouth washes have alcohol as high as 20% in them, proven to be a primary factor leading to increase in oral cancer cases, warm salt water gargles are ever more relevant.

Read below for 6 Benefits of this Do-it-at-Home Miracle Oral Health Routine:

Post Oral Surgery – Doing W.S.G. after oral surgeries like Extractions and Implants reduces the risk of infection and keeps the surgical site clean.
Patients Suffering from Gum Disease – Patients having gum diseases like Gingivitis and Periodontitis are greatly helped by doing Warm Saline Gargles. The salt changes the microflora of the gum tissue (due to osmosis) by flushing out the harmful bacteria and keeping the gingival margins intact while preventing Bad Breadth (Halitosis).
Remedy for Tooth Pain – Whenever a cavity is left untreated, it reaches deeper and deeper inside the tooth causing pain. Regularly doing Warm Salt Water Gargles reduces the accumulation of pus caused due to cavity progress, thereby reducing pain.
Outbreak of Ulcers – Many times there is a spurt of oral ulcers (i.e. Aphthous Ulcers) in certain people. Doing Warm Salt Water Gargles prevents the risk of infection in these patients and also helps in repair of the inflamed mucosa.
Strengthens the Enamel – Salt has one of the most effective ingredients for maintaining enamel strength and the best-known anti-cavity agent ever – Fluoride.
Prevents Formation of Plaque – Due to flushing action and antibacterial nature of salt, plaque formation is greatly controlled. It is this plaque that in due course of time gets converted to tartar and causes gum infections.

At Sree Venkateswara Dental Clinics, in our experience we have seen the benefits of Warm Saline Gargles and hence have been advising our patients to do W.S.G. at least once before bedtime everyday for the last 40 years.

All Posts in Category: Dental and Oral Care Tips

Read below for 6 Benefits of this Do-it-at-Home Miracle Oral Health Routine:

Sree Venkateswara Dental Clinics I.N.A. | Munirka Enclave | Noida Restoring Smiles since 1973…

Sree Venkateswara Dental Clinics
I.N.A. | Munirka Enclave | Noida
Restoring Smiles since 1973…