Category: Uncategorized
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Infections and Abscesses: Know The Facts
Infections within the teeth occur when the nerves inside die or become damaged. Bacteria builds up around the affected area, which can spread and lead to an abscess. – Tooth pain or a swelling on the gum could be a sign of infection or an abscess. – In some cases, root canal treatment can be…
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Detecting inflammation after dental implants: could chewing gum be the answer?
About 6-15% of patients who receive dental implants to replace their teeth subsequently develop bacterial inflammation. In future, these patients may be able to use a diagnostic chewing gum to detect early signs of inflammation. Key takeaways: – The diagnostic chewing gum detects bacterial inflammation, releasing a bitter taste and prompting patients to visit their…
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When you hit eighteen, it’s time to screen
You should request annual oral cancer screening once you reach 18; screening is pain-free and can be done while your dentist is checking your teeth. Key takeaways: – Although relatively uncommon, oral cancer (cancers of the throat, tongue, lips and neck) results in over 9000 deaths each year, so screening is vital – 80% of…
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Why you should talk to your teen if they are grinding your teeth
If you think your teenager is grinding their teeth while they sleep you may want to ask them if they are being bullied. Key takeaways: – A recent study in Brazil showed that young teens being verbally bullied at school are more likely to grind their teeth at night than teens not being bullied –…
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Should I worry about having a dry mouth?
Having a dry mouth can damage your teeth. Without adequate saliva food debris can get stuck between teeth and form plaque while harmful acids attack the enamel on your teeth. Key takeaways – Sip water regularly to keep hydrated – Let your dentist know what medications you take because some can cause dry mouth –…
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Don’t Abuse Your Teeth
We all know we should brush and floss daily in order to keep our teeth in good order. However, we sometimes abuse our teeth in ways that we shouldn’t. Lauren McGrath has listed eight common mistakes we all make that are detrimental to oral health and infuriating for your dentist. – Not flossing daily –…
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Wisdom Tooth Extraction and ‘Dry Socket’
‘Dry socket’ is a painful condition which can occur after the removal of wisdom teeth and the exposed nerves and bone become infected. The first symptom of a dry socket is pain which should be discussed with your dentist as soon as possible. Other signs of a possible dry socket include: – Bad odour from…
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Should we be using antibacterial toothpastes?
During recent years, questions have been raised about the use of antibacterial mouthwashes, due to a risk of killing off healthy bacteria from the tongue. Although antibacterial toothpastes don’t have as much contact with the tongue, there are differing opinions as to whether they are good for our overall health. When “good” bacteria are killed,…
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Addiction to Opioids and Links to the Dentist
Opioids are quite commonly used by as an anaesthetic during the removal of wisdom teeth and other surgical procedures. They can also be prescribed as a painkiller following surgery but there is a small risk of patients becoming addicted to the drugs. Opioids are addictive drugs and must be monitored and regulated carefully. Many dentists…
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Title: Why Are My Gums Bleeding?
Bleeding gums are cause for worry. Here are three reasons why your gums may bleed. Key takeaways: – Gingivitis (plaque build-up) is one of the main reasons behind bleeding gums – Brushing your teeth aggressively with a frayed toothbrush can cause bleeding too – Untreated gingivitis can lead to infection, which can spread to the…