Toothaches will make anyone feel miserable. Some reasons for toothaches include:

Misaligned Teeth or Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Teeth that are misaligned can press against others, pushing them out of line as well, resulting in aches and pains. Impacted wisdom teeth, also known as wisdom teeth that have failed to break through the gum line, can also be extremely painful as they fester below the gum line and sometimes push against other teeth. These issues should be brought to the attention of your dentist, if they haven’t been addressed yet. For misaligned teeth, an orthodontic solution will likely be proposed, such as braces, and surgery will be needed to fix impacted wisdom teeth.

Improper Brushing or Flossing

Very often people do not pay attention to the pressure they are using when they brush and floss their teeth and end up pressing much too hard. This results in irritated, inflamed, and bleeding gums. If extreme pressure like this is constantly used, it can cause gums to recede and can make teeth unstable, resulting in more pain. Consult your dentist about proper brushing techniques and be sure to only use soft bristled toothbrushes.

Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is a very common reason for tooth, jaw, neck, and related muscle pain. People who grind their teeth generally do so while they’re sleeping or during stressful situations. Excessive teeth grinding involves violently clenching the jaw and grinding the top and bottom teeth back and forth against each other.

This can result in sore jaw bones and joints, headaches, and even cracked or chipped teeth, all of which are very painful. The best course of action to treat bruxism is to have a custom mouth guard made that is worn while sleeping to relieve the stress put on teeth and the jaw.

Damaged Fillings or Dental Sealants

Dental fillings that cover deep pits, grooves, or fractures in teeth often protect vulnerable parts of the tooth. When these protectants are damaged, the sensitive parts of teeth are exposed to extreme temperatures, food particles, and bacteria. This can result in a pain that is anything from a dull ache to a sharp, piercing sensation. If you have a damaged filling or sealant, be sure to book an emergency appointment with your dentist to have it fixed before the vulnerable parts of your tooth suffer further damage or decay.

Temperature Sensitivity

If you are experiencing sharp tooth pain during, or very soon after, eating or drinking something that is cold or hot, this is typically associated with tooth sensitivity. This can mean that your tooth enamel has worn down and your tooth’s dentin (the layer where the tooth’s nerves lie) is exposed, or can be a result of recent teeth whitening. To help protect these nerves and shelter them from extreme temperatures, try a toothpaste made for sensitive teeth. Consult your dentist for recommendations and further treatment options.

Tooth Fractures

Teeth can be cracked or chipped in many different ways, whether it’s through a fall, playing sports, or biting down on something hard or sticky. If you are feeling pain in a fractured tooth, that means that the fracture has made its way to the middle of the tooth where the nerve endings are and can result in excruciating pain.

This may not happen as soon as the tooth is chipped or damaged, but can develop over time as the tooth damage worsens. This is why all fractures and chips should be attended to by your dentist as soon as possible and before they have the chance to worsen.

Gum Disease

Gum disease is characterized by a dull pain in the mouth, red, bleeding gums, and also sometimes tooth pain. A common cause of this is the oral bone and gums becoming inflamed. If left untreated, teeth, gums, and bones could be damaged or lost, and surgical measures may have to be taken to rid the mouth of infection.

Tooth Abscess

When tooth decay advances to the point of affecting the root beneath the visible tooth there is a high chance that the root and the surrounding tissue have become infected. This will result in a widespread pulsating pain that may make it hard to determine which exact tooth is the culprit of the pain. This is a very serious issue and needs to be professionally dealt with as soon as possible as it can result in bone and tissue loss. Which, obviously, is no fun at all.

Tooth Decay

The most common reason for a painful toothache is plain old tooth decay. Sure, it might not be all that exciting or new, but it’s something that can affect any of us.

For the tooth and the surrounding area to hurt, the decay in the tooth would have to be significant enough to reach the inner layer of the tooth, a layer called the dentin. Once the dentin is damaged the tooth becomes very sensitive and a cavity, or carie, has developed.

If the pain becomes less of an ache and more of a sharp pain, the tooth decay may have reached the center of the tooth. This results in a very intense pain that makes it difficult to carry on with daily life. These issues need to be addressed as soon as possible as they are not only painful but can quickly lead to bigger dental issues.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms described above and have read through this whole list trying to figure out what might be wrong – call your dentist today. A simple examination can determine what’s going on, and the sooner you do it the better. Delaying can make a simple problem grow into a larger one just from neglect.

So don’t delay and don’t be scared! If going to the dentist makes you anxious, ask about sedation. There are multiple varieties available, and it’s perfectly normal to be nervous (some estimates say up to 80% of people suffer from dental fear!).

Dentures are artificial teeth and gums that are formed to your mouth and created by your dentists to replace lost or removed natural teeth. Dentures can either be full or partial, meaning they can either replace all teeth on either the top or bottom gum line, or just a few that are missing. Regardless of what kind of dentures you may need, they will be custom designed to fit your mouth, and visually matched to your existing teeth.

Dentures Then vs. Dentures Now

In the past, the artificial teeth that make up dentures were made out of porcelain or plastic, but more modern dentures are generally made out of a hard resin. The materials used to make denture teeth are known to be more fragile than natural teeth and can easily chip or crack if dropped or otherwise uncared for. This material also wears down much quicker than natural teeth and thus must be replaced with a new set of dentures every five years or so.

The supporting structure of dentures that holds the artificial teeth in place and resembles the natural gum line is often made out of a similar resin used for the teeth, or a more flexible polymer material that fits snugly on the natural gum line.

Dentures not only improve the appearance of a smile that has multiple missing teeth, but they also keep the structure of the mouth sound by supporting the structures around the cheeks and lips. Dentures also make it possible to eat foods that require chewing, making it possible to keep your diet the same and ensure that you are properly nourished. Lastly, dentures are a viable solution to replace teeth that are causing serious pain and oral health issues, such as those with rotted roots or severe damage. Having dentures fitted means that troublesome teeth are eliminated and replaced with a strong and beautiful alternative.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are often used instead of other tooth replacement methods when the surrounding natural teeth are not strong enough to support structures such as dental bridges, or when more than one or two teeth are missing.

The partial dentures are fitted to the part of the gum line that they will sit on, and fasten to nearby natural teeth to keep from falling out of place. They are not permanently fastened, however, and can be easily taken out at any time for cleaning and while sleeping.

Full Dentures

Full dentures, otherwise known as complete dentures, are dentures that replace all of your natural teeth. You can have them fitted for your top or bottom gum line, and are held in place by suction and/or the help of an oral adhesive. Just like partial dentures, they are easily removable.

Immediate Dentures and Overdentures

There are some other kinds of full and partial dentures that differ from traditional permanent dentures including a type called immediate dentures. These dentures are created before the teeth that are being replaced with dentures have been removed and are used immediately after tooth extraction and during the healing process, which can be up to six months long. These dentures can be more easily refitted than permanent dentures to accommodate for mouth changes as the swelling in the gums and jaw subsides while healing. The immediate dentures will be disposed of once the healing process is complete and your mouth is ready for permanent dentures.

Overdentures are an alternative that can be used if traditional dentures prove to be extremely uncomfortable or if you have a few natural teeth left. Overdentures are fitted over the roots of natural teeth and either rest on these or on dental implants, if there are no natural teeth to fit over. Some find this type of denture more comfortable and they are also easily removable.

Implant-Supported Dentures

As the name seems to imply, these are dentures which are anchored by dental implants. A dental implant is a permanent fixture that is anchored to the jawbone and can be used to replace any number of teeth. They’re comprised of the implant itself, a metal post (usually titanium), and a custom crown which looks just like a natural tooth.

Implant-supported dentures have a couple of different ways in which they can attach, but should be cared for and treated like traditional dentures. It’s more common to have them done on the lower jaw since the upper has fewer problems with fitting securely, but plenty of people have implants on both.

How to Clean Dentures

Regardless of what kind of dentures you may have, all dentures need to be cleaned daily, just like regular teeth. Even though dentures are made up of artificial teeth, bacteria, plaque, and tartar still build up on them and can harm existing teeth and gums.

To clean your dentures, take them out of your mouth and run clean water over them to dislodge any food particles that may be stuck between teeth, along the gum line, or underneath the structure. Then brush the dentures all over with a denture brush or very soft toothbrush using a mild soap or denture cleaner. Be sure not to use any other cleaners, regular toothpaste, or electric toothbrushes as these are all too abrasive and can damage and wear away the denture materials. After cleaning, make sure to rinse them well.

While your dentures are out of your mouth, be sure to clean your gums and any natural teeth with a very soft and wet toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste if needed. If your toothbrush is too harsh, wrap your finger in a wet, soft washcloth and gently rub your gums, making sure to cover all surfaces.

Preserving Your Dentures

Always remove your dentures before sleeping to avoid damaging them, dislodging them, and to give your gums some time to relax. Submerge your dentures fully in warm, but not hot, water to keep them from drying out and becoming misshapen. Only use denture soaking solution if your dentures do not have metal components as the solution can tarnish the metal.

Bruxism (BRUK-siz-um) is a condition in which you grind, gnash or clench your teeth. If you have bruxism, you may unconsciously clench your teeth together during the day, or clench or grind them at night (sleep bruxism). Sleep bruxism is considered a sleep-related movement disorder.

Mild bruxism may not require treatment. However, in some people, bruxism can be frequent and severe enough to lead to jaw disorders, headaches, damaged teeth and other problems.

Because you may have sleep bruxism and be unaware of it until complications develop, it’s important to know the signs and symptoms of bruxism and to seek regular dental care.

Signs of Bruxism

Symptoms may include:

• Teeth grinding or clenching
• Teeth that are flattened, fractured, chipped or loose
• Worn tooth enamel, exposing deeper layers
• Increased tooth sensitivity
• Jaw or face pain or soreness
• Tired or tight jaw muscles
• Pain that feels like an earache
• Dull headache originating in the temples
• Damage from chewing on the inside of your cheek
• Indentations on your tongue
• Bleeding gums, receding gum line
• Loose teeth
• Periodontal pockets

See your doctor or dentist if:

• Your teeth are worn, damaged or sensitive
• You have pain in your jaw, face or ear
• Others complain that you make a grinding noise while you sleep
• You have a locked jaw that won’t open or close completely

If you notice that your child is grinding his or her teeth — or has other signs or symptoms of bruxism — be sure to mention it at your child’s next dental appointment.

What Causes Bruxism?

Doctors don’t completely understand what causes bruxism. Possible physical or psychological causes may include:

• Emotions, such as anxiety, stress, anger, frustration or tension
• Aggressive, competitive or hyperactive personality type
• Abnormal alignment of upper and lower teeth (malocclusion)
• Response to pain from an earache or teething (in children)
• An uncommon side effect of some psychiatric medications, such as phenothiazines or certain antidepressants
• A coping strategy or focusing habit
• Complication resulting from a disorder such as Huntington’s disease or Parkinson’s disease

These factors increase your risk of bruxism:

• Stress. Increased anxiety or stress can lead to teeth grinding. So can anger and frustration.
• Age. Bruxism is common in young children, but it usually goes away by the teen years.
• Personality type. Having a personality type that is aggressive, competitive or hyperactive can increase your risk of bruxism.
• Stimulating substances. Smoking tobacco, drinking caffeinated beverages or alcohol, or taking illegal drugs such as methamphetamines may increase the risk of bruxism.

Severe bruxism may lead to:

• Damage to your teeth, restorations, crowns or jaw
• Tension-type headaches
• Facial pain
• Disorders that occur in the temporomandibular joints (TMJs), located just in front of your ears, which may sound like clicking when you open and close your mouth

During regular dental exams, your dentist likely will check for signs of bruxism. If you have any signs, your dentist will look for changes in your teeth and mouth over the next several visits to see if the process is progressive and to determine whether you need treatment.

If your dentist suspects that you have bruxism, he or she will try to determine its cause by asking questions about your general dental health, medications, daily routines and sleep habits.

To evaluate the extent of bruxism, your dentist may check for:

• Tenderness in your jaw muscles
• Obvious dental abnormalities, such as broken or missing teeth or poor tooth alignment
• Damage to your teeth, the underlying bone and the inside of your cheeks, usually with the help of X-rays
• Strength of masseter muscles or jaw

If you or your child has bruxism, your doctor may suggest ways to preserve or improve your teeth. Although these methods may prevent or correct the wear to your teeth, they may not stop the bruxism:

• Splints and mouth guards. These are designed to keep teeth separated to avoid the damage caused by clenching and grinding. They can be constructed of hard acrylic or soft materials and fit over your upper or lower teeth.
• Dental correction. Correcting teeth that aren’t properly aligned may help if your bruxism seems to be related to dental problems. In severe cases — when tooth wear has led to sensitivity or the inability to chew properly — your dentist may need to reshape the chewing surfaces of your teeth or use crowns. In certain cases, your dentist may recommend braces or oral surgery.

Certain therapies may help relieve bruxism, such as:

• Stress management. If you grind your teeth because of stress, you may be able to prevent the problem with professional counseling or strategies that promote relaxation, such as exercise or meditation.
• Behavior therapy. Once you discover that you have bruxism, you may be able to change the behavior by practicing proper mouth and jaw position. Ask your dentist to show you the best position for your mouth and jaw.

Medications

In general, medications aren’t very effective for treatment of bruxism, and more research is needed to determine their effectiveness. Examples of medications that may be used for bruxism include:

• Muscle relaxants. In some cases, your doctor may suggest taking a muscle relaxant before bedtime, for a short period of time.
• OnabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) injections. Botox injections may help some people with severe bruxism who don’t respond to other treatments.

If you develop bruxism as a side effect of a medication, your doctor may change your medication or prescribe a different one.

These self-care steps may prevent or help treat bruxism:

• Reduce stress. Listening to music, taking a warm bath or exercising can help you relax and may reduce your risk of developing bruxism.
• Avoid stimulating substances in the evening. Avoid stimulants. Don’t drink caffeinated coffee or caffeinated tea after dinner, and avoid alcohol and smoking during the evening, as they may worsen bruxism.
• Practice good sleep habits. Getting a good night’s sleep, which may include treatment for sleep problems, may help reduce bruxism.
• Schedule regular dental exams. Dental exams are the best way to identify bruxism. Your dentist can spot signs of bruxism in your mouth and jaw with regular visits and exams.

A laser in an instrument that produces a very narrow, intense beam of light energy.  When laser light comes in contact with tissue, it causes a reaction.  The light produced by the laser can remove or shape tissue.

Lasers have been used in dentistry since 1990.  Lasers can be used as a safe and effective treatment for a wide range of dental procedures and are often used in conjunction with other dental instruments.

Dental lasers can be used to:

• Reduce discomfort of canker and cold sores.
• Expose partially erupted wisdom teeth
• Remove muscle attachments that limit proper movement
• Manage gum tissue during impressions for crowns or other procedures
• Remove overgrown tissue caused by medications
• Perform biopsies
• Remove inflamed gum tissues and aid in treatment of gum disease
• Remove or reshape gum and bone tissues during crown lengthening procedures
• Help treat infections in root canals
• Remove/treat bacterial in gingival pockets surrounding teeth

Laser procedures are precise.  Also, lasers can reduce symptoms and healing times associated with traditional therapies; reduce the amount of bacteria in both diseased gum tissue and in tooth cavities; and control bleeding during surgery.

If the laser is used according to accepted practices by a trained practitioner, then it is at least as safe as other dental instruments.  However, just as you wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from prolonged exposure to the sun, when your dentist performs a laser procedure, you will be asked to wear special eyeglasses to protect your eyes from the laser.

Although the laser is a very useful dental instrument, it is not appropriate for every dental procedure.

Poor oral health can lead to pulp diseases that require root canals, or worse. Learn about the types, symptoms, and treatments for oral pulp diseases.

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Poor dental hygiene is the main reason for tooth decay, tooth pain, and other oral health conditions. If you don’t maintain good oral health habits, including brushing and flossing regularly, plaque can develop and lead to cavities. Left untreated, a cavity can eventually affect the soft center (or pulp) of your tooth, which contains sensitive nerves and delicate blood vessels. And if pulp diseases aren’t properly managed, you can lose your teeth.

Symptoms of Pulp Diseases

Depending on the type of pulp disease, symptoms may vary in intensity and can include:

• Pain in a tooth or teeth when you eat something very sweet, hot, or cold
• Sudden, intense pain in the mouth
• Infection in the mouth

Types of Pulp Diseases

There are several different pulp diseases, including:

• Reversible pulpitis, or mild inflammation of the pulp. Symptoms typically include pain upon eating or drinking something very sweet, hot, or cold. Without treatment, the inflammation can progress to a dental abscess, a collection of bacteria and pus. Good oral health habits can help offset reversible pulpitis, but in many cases, a filling is eventually needed. Pulpitis can also occur if you crack or break a tooth.
• Irreversible pulpitis, or severe inflammation of the pulp that can’t be cured. Symptoms include sudden intense pain. Left untreated, it can result in a widespread gum and connective tissue infection. Irreversible pulpitis is generally treated with a root canal procedure. If that doesn’t work, your dentist may have to remove the tooth.
• Dental pulp calcification (also known as dental pulp stones). This is a condition in which hardening, or calcification, of pulp tissue results in hypersensitivity and extreme pain because the dental nerves become compressed. A root canal is usually necessary to clear away hardened tissue.
• Dental pulp exposure. This condition comes on when damage to the external covering of a tooth, such as a cavity or crack in the tooth, exposes the normally protected pulp to bacteria and irritating food particles. Pain is the most frequent symptom and without proper dental care, a mild infection can progress into a serious abscess. Depending on the degree of pulp exposure, a filling, root-canal procedure, or even tooth extraction may be required.

Pulp Diseases Treatment: Root Canal Therapy

If damaged pulp in your tooth isn’t taken out, a severe infection can spread to surrounding tissue, including your jaw bone. A root canal procedure to remove the pulp tissue is usually performed over several visits by a regular dentist or a pulp specialist, called an endodontist. The root canal therapy may spare you from having to get the infected tooth removed.

Here’s what you can expect from root canal therapy:

• First visit. The diseased pulp is removed and the empty space, the root canal, is cleaned out and enlarged. Special medications may be placed in the canal to disinfect the area. A temporary filling may be placed as well, or your dentist may choose to leave the canal open and let the tooth drain for a few days. An oral antibiotic may also be recommended to treat infection in the tissues surrounding your tooth.
• Second visit. The temporary filling is removed and a permanent filling is placed.
• Final visit. A crown is placed over the tooth to reinforce the tooth and make it stronger.

Some pulp diseases may be caused by an injury that broke a tooth. But many other pulp diseases are simply caused by poor oral health habits. If you brush and floss regularly and seek out regular dental care, you are less likely to develop pulp diseases.

Healthy mouth, healthy body.

The condition of your mouth is closely tied to your overall health. Oral health is linked to diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and more.

Taking care of your teeth isn’t just about having a nice smile and pleasant breath. There are a number of links between oral health and overall health. The condition of your mouth is closely tied to your overall physical health.

Oral Health and Diabetes

Type 2 diabetics have an increased incidence of periodontitis, or gum disease. While more research is needed before doctors can conclude that gum disease actually leads to diabetes, there are already a few theories about why this might be the case.  One proposes that when infections in your mouth get bad enough, they can lead to low-grade inflammation throughout your body, which in turn wreaks havoc on your sugar-processing abilities.

Oral Health and Heart Disease

As with diabetes, the connection between poor oral health and cardiovascular conditions has been recognized — the two are often found together — but it still hasn’t been determined conclusively whether or not there is a direct causal relationship between them. “Bad” bacteria from an infected mouth may lodge itself inside blood vessels, ultimately causing dangerous blockages. Strengthening his theory is the fact that when scientists have looked at atherosclerotic blood vessels, they have sometimes found fragments of periodontal bacteria. Meanwhile, a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2007 established that aggressive treatment of gum disease reduces the incidence of atherosclerosis within six months.

Pregnancy Complications and Gum Disease

For many pregnant women, gum infections stem from the fluctuating hormone levels that come with pregnancy. Others neglect their oral care during pregnancy, since they have much on their minds.  Calcium to the mother can be depleted during a pregnancy as it is being pulled by the fetus. Scientists believe that gum disease or inflammation in the mouth possibly triggers an increase in a chemical compound called prostaglandin, which induces early labor. Regular dental visits are imperative to maintain dental health during a woman’s pregnancy.

Stinky breath, unsightly mouth sores, and tooth decay: we’ve got a solution for all of your dental-health dilemmas.

What is the best way to keep your mouth, teeth, and gums looking and feeling great? Your daily brushing and flossing routine, combined with a balanced diet and regular dental visits.

However, following these oral hygiene rituals isn’t always enough. Many common oral-health problems, such as bad breath, tooth decay, erosion, receding gums, and mouth sores, can leave people feeling both physically uncomfortable and reluctant to smile. Fortunately, with the right treatments these embarrassing oral-health problems can be solved!

Bad Breath

Treatment for bad breath, or halitosis, varies depending on the cause. Brushing and flossing is crucial since it helps keep food particles from collecting bacteria and decaying in your mouth. If your dentist gives you a clean bill of health, you will need to investigate further. Your bad breath could be the result of a medical disorder, such as a respiratory infection; chronic sinusitis or bronchitis; diabetes; a gastrointestinal disturbance, such as GERD; or a liver or kidney ailment. The use of particular medications can cause dry mouth, which can contribute to bad breath. And sometimes, the solution may be as simple as changing your diet: If you are a garlic or onion lover, cutting down on these foods will help. Eliminating tobacco if you’re a smoker will help as well.

Tooth Decay and Erosion

Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing once a day, and visiting your dentist regularly for exams and cleanings will help fight tooth decay and erosion. Your dentist may also recommend protective plastic sealants to reduce your risk of decay. Eating a balanced diet and keeping your “junk food and sweets” to a minimum will also help head off plaque and erosion. If you’re particularly concerned about erosion, avoid acidic food and drinks, such as citrus fruits and juices, tomatoes, pickles, soda, and sports drinks.  Studies suggest that they can strip enamel from the teeth. Gastric acid can also contribute to erosion, so if you have a medical condition like acid-reflux disease or bulimia, getting treatment is imperative.

Receding Gums

Gum recession and periodontal disease can have serious repercussions. Early stage gingivitis causes the gums to become red and swollen, and to bleed easily. The more advanced periodontitis damages the gums and bones that support the teeth, causing them to loosen and fall out. Gum recession can also result from aggressive tooth brushing with medium or hard bristles, mal-positioned teeth, or bad habits such as clenching, grinding, or scratching your gums with foreign objects.  You can also help protect your gums by using an ultrasoft toothbrush and wearing a night guard to reduce stress on your teeth if you tend to clench or grind at night

Mouth Sores

Canker sores and cold sores are two of the most common sores that show up around the mouth. They can be painful, annoying, and unsightly. Cankers develop inside the mouth, while cold sores appear externally, usually on the edge of the lips. Fortunately, both of these types of sores tend to heal on their own within a week or so, and canker sores can be treated with over-the-counter topical anesthetics or antimicrobial mouth rinses to reduce discomfort. Topical anesthetics may also provide temporary relief for cold sores. If you’re embarrassed by frequent cold-sore outbreaks, talk to your doctor about getting a prescription for antiviral drugs that could help reduce infections from the herpes virus.

Regular dental checkups can detect oral cancers early, before they’ve spread, and your dentist will probably see the signs before you do.

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Oral cancer can affect any part of the mouth, lips, or the back of the throat. About 35,000 Americans are diagnosed with some forms of oral cancer each year, and of those, approximately 7,500 will die from the condition. Most oral cancers — about two-thirds — are found in the mouth, while the rest are found in the pharynx, a part of the throat that’s just behind the mouth and nasal cavity.

Who Is at Risk for Oral Cancer?

You are at increased risk of developing oral cancer if you: · 

• Use tobacco products. Tobacco use — smoking cigarettes, pipes, or cigars, or using snuff or chewing tobacco — causes 75 percent of all cases of oral cancer. ·
• Drink alcohol. Heavy alcohol use, especially when combined with tobacco use, increases your risk of developing oral cancer. ·
• Get too much sun, which can increase your risk of developing lip cancer. ·
• Eat an unhealthy diet, which can increase your overall cancer risk. ·
• Are over the age of 40. Most people who are diagnosed with oral cancer are over 40. ·
• Are male. Oral cancer is twice as likely to affect men as women.

Therefore, you can reduce your risk of oral cancer by eating a healthy diet, avoiding tobacco, drinking alcohol only in moderation, and limiting your exposure to the sun.

Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer symptoms include:

• A lump, sore, irritation, thick patch, or rough spot anywhere in your mouth, throat, or on your lips
• A red or white patch or bump in your mouth
• A sensation that something is stuck in your throat
• Problems with swallowing or chewing
• Difficulty moving your tongue or jaw
• A numb or painful tongue or numbness in other areas of your mouth
• A swollen jaw
• Ill-fitting dentures
• Ear pain without loss of hearing
• A mouth or lip sore that won’t heal or bleeds easily
• Change in color of your mouth

While these symptoms may also indicate less serious health issues, if you experience any of them for more than two weeks, see a dentist for evaluation.

Checking for oral cancer is a regular part of dental check-ups. At each check-up, your dentist or hygienist will examine your entire mouth for signs of precancerous spots and may spot something before you can see it.

If your dentist finds a suspicious spot, he may perform a brush test, in which cells are collected from that lesion and sent to a lab for testing. If any precancerous cells are found, treatment will usually involve surgical removal of the lesion. The tissue will then be sent to a lab to determine if it’s malignant or benign.. Radiation may also be needed.

The Long-Term Outlook for Oral Cancer

The survival rate for people who have oral cancers is poor — just about half of all of those diagnosed with oral cancer survive beyond five years. This is probably because a lot of oral cancer is caught in later stages, when it’s harder to treat. That’s why it’s so important to seek regular dental care, so your dentist can identify suspected oral cancers early and you can be treated as soon as possible.

Regular checkups and good dental care are your best defenses against oral cancer and other oral health conditions.

Crown lengthening can minimize the amount of gum that’s viewable in your smile and can make teeth look longer.

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If you’re bothered by a “gummy” smile or teeth that you feel are too small, you may want to consider crown lengthening. This cosmetic dentistry procedure can beautify your smile by exposing more of your teeth.

What Is Crown Lengthening?

Crown lengthening is an oral surgery treatment that involves removing excess gum tissue, and possibly some bone, around the upper teeth to make them look longer. It’s a common procedure performed by dentists, or gum specialists.

“If the gum line is uneven, crown lengthening can also sculpt the gum line to produce a more symmetrical smile,” says Dr. Harms. Crown lengthening may be done for dental care and medical reasons as well as for the cosmetic effect. If there’s decay or fracture under the gum line, for example, crown lengthening can help expose more of the tooth’s crown in order to support a filling or porcelain crown.

What Does Crown Lengthening Involve?

Crown lengthening involves oral surgery performed under local anesthesia. After the area is numbed, the dentist makes small cuts to pull the gums away from the teeth and remove excess gum. In some cases, removing gum tissue is all that is needed to expose more of the crown. But if there is too much soft tissue and bone covering the crown, a tiny bit of bone may need to be taken out, too. After the surgery is completed, the gums are washed with sterile salt water and stitched up.

Unlike many cosmetic dentistry treatments, crown lengthening only needs to be done once, with no requirement for touch-ups down the road. The surgery can usually be completed in 30 minutes to an hour..

Following surgery, you’ll be given a prescription for a pain reliever and instructed to use ice to reduce any swelling. You’ll want to eat a diet of fairly soft foods and brush your teeth carefully in the area near the stitches, which will come out in 7 to 10 days. Complete healing of the gums can take up to three months, however. At that point, you may opt to have veneers or another cosmetic dentistry procedure done, such as bonding or tooth whitening.

If you have excessive or uneven gums, crown lengthening can transform your smile and give you just the right look — and as an added bonus, it may just improve your overall dental health as well.

It’s colorless, flavorless, and doesn’t get enough credit for how great it is:
We’re talking about water! Here are some of the great things water does for you:

Water keeps you cool. Drink it, spray it, dump it on yourself, jump in it—there’s really no bad way to use water to cool down.

Water helps your skin look its best. When you’re dehydrated, your skin can be more prone to wrinkling and cracking.

Water helps prevent bad breath. That’s right—one of the most common causes of bad breath is dehydration. When there’s not enough saliva in your mouth, bacteria can thrive, which leads to bad odors.

Water is calorie-free! Need some refreshment? Whether you take it sparkling, iced or plain, water can quench your thirst without any added caloric intake.

Water can help clean your teeth. In between brushings, water is one of the most useful dental tools you can use, because it washes away foods and liquids that can damage your teeth. It’s not a replacement for brushing and flossing, but it can definitely help.