Common Oral Health Questions and Answers

Mouthwashes can help to boost cavity protection and fresh breath, but only when used with regular brushing and flossing. Mouthwash should not be used instead of cleaning your teeth daily. It’s recommended for some people to use mouthwash twice a day to help with gum health or dry mouth. Children under the age of 6 should not use mouthwash to prevent ingestion.

Dental x-rays are not taken often and tend to only be used to diagnose a specific dental issue. Recent technology releases less radiation which means x-rays are much safer now than ever before. They are used to check tooth and gum health and are normally only taken every 2 years. Children only receive more x-rays because their teeth are constantly changing and are more susceptible to cavities. 

Gingivitis is a beginning stage of periodontitis. It will begin with gum inflammation before getting to gum disease. Without treatment, gingivitis can turn into a big problem for your gums. You can reverse gingivitis by brushing your teeth, flossing, and scheduling regular dental cleanings. 

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you could have periodontitis:

• Swollen gums
• Red or purple gums
• Tender gums
• Bleeding gums from brushing or flossing
• Bad breath

Don’t self-diagnosis; talk to one of the doctors at Dousman to prevent your painful teeth from getting worse. If you let it go for too long, you could start losing teeth.

Preventive dental care helps to prevent oral diseases and maintain good tooth health. Brushing your teeth with toothpaste containing fluoride, flossing, and maintaining a healthy diet are all ways to promote oral hygiene. Scheduling regular dental exams and cleanings, makes prevention even easier.

Schedule a tooth cleaning with one of our dentists today.

Restorative dentistry is performed when a dentist does a procedure to return your mouth to proper functioning. Fillings, implants, dentures and crowns are all considered restorative dentistry procedures. These procedures ensure that your mouth, teeth, and gums stay as healthy as possible when combined with preventive care.

Wisdom teeth are connected to the central nervous system including the heart, liver, and intestines. They can signal high blood pressure, headaches, liver disease, pain, and cardiovascular disease.

Studies have shown that gum disease has been linked to heart disease and diabetes. Having poor gum health can allow for bacteria to enter your bloodstream and cause problems for not just your teeth but your heart too.

Make sure to schedule your regular cleaning to prevent poor dental hygiene and promote heart health.

Some of the worst foods for your teeth include:

• Sugary sweets and candies
• Soft drinks
• Pickles 
• Wine
• Citrus fruits
• Crackers
• Sports beverages
• Pasta sauce
• Apple cider vinegar
• Dried fruits

There is a large list of foods and drinks that are good for your teeth, gums, and body including:

• Dairy products
• Water
• Leafy greens
• Nuts
• Meats and fish
• Tea and coffee
• Cranberries, raisins, apples, strawberries and pears
• Sweet potatoes 
• Garlic and onions
• Whole grains