Gingivitis – A dental problem that can have consequences

Gingivitis is a bacterial disease that affects the gums. It goes through an inflammatory process. The bacteria are accumulated in the line between the gum and the tooth in the form of tartar or bacterial plaque. When this occurs, the appearance of the gums is bright red and intense, they are swollen, bulky, and softer and with frequent bleeding, mouth ulcers, etc. … The bleeding and swelling correspond to the reaction of the immune system against the infection.

It is a reversible inflammatory oral pathology, as long as it does not affect the bone within which the tooth is fixed. While still in this phase, the periodontics can treat and make the problem reverse. However, if the gingivitis is not treated and it progresses, it becomes a periodontitis (name that receives the disease when the bone is affected).

In periodontitis, the alveolar bone of the affected area loses tissue progressively. The degradation of bone support and ligaments will be irreversible and will be destroyed. As a consequence, the tooth will be lost. Gingivitis is the tip of the iceberg. The anteroom Moment in which oral health can be fully recovered. Although it must be prevented with a thorough oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist. If it does come, it is time to act to avoid deriving more.

Cause of gingivitis

Plaque deposits on the teeth, cavities, some systemic diseases and poor oral hygiene are the main causes. Also hormonal changes, uncontrolled diabetes, badly placed or contaminated equipment (prostheses, crowns, bridges, correctors, etc.). Other causes may be the use of some medications such as bismuth, phenytoin, etc. Oral contraceptives, etc.

Types of gingivitis

There are two types and an atypical third:

  • The one associated with bacterial plaque
  • Not associated with bacterial plaque. The latter is caused by viral or bacterial infection, genetic factors, allergies, etc.
  • Desquamate gingivitis. It is a diffuse erythematous formation in the gum. This type of inflammation could be confused periodontal disease without being. It could be an early manifestation of an underlying systemic disease.

How to know if we have gingivitis?

The main sign that there is a bacterial process is bleeding from the gums. If you wash your teeth (normally) see blood, you should be alarmed. Healthy gums do not bleed.

About this, we will say that in the case of smokers, this is not a reliable track, since even though there is gingivitis, the gums do not bleed, so the main symptom may be masked. A smoker should go to the dentist more frequently and have better oral hygiene.

Treatment

  • Mild: The treatment for gingivitis is intended to reduce inflammation. You will first be given a professional oral cleaning to loosen and clean plaque and teach you how to keep your teeth clear of tartar. Most likely, I will advise you with some specific toothpaste and some rinsing.
  • Severe: In addition to what has been said in the treatment of mild gingivitis, it is most likely to be reinforced with mouthwashes and antibiotics for a week.

If you are already undergoing periodontitis, a scraping of the bone and the part of the tooth that remains under the gums will be done. This process is a surgical process.


Halitosis, a silent enemy

Halitosis or bad breath can be defined as unpleasant odor that is emitted by the oral cavity. It is very frequent. It affects one in two people and is considered a problem related to poor oral hygiene, or mouth diseases, but it is not always the case.

Origin of halitosis

Bad breath can come from two sources: oral halitosis, or extra oral halitosis.

90% of cases of bad breath have their origin in the oral cavity and comes in 41% of the bacterial plaque or biofilm that is concentrated in the tongue. The rest is caused by periodontal problems, bad hygiene, cavities, smoking, alcoholism, etc.

When its origin is extra oral, which comes to be 10% of all cases, comes mainly from systemic disorders: respiratory tract, both upper and lower, digestive system, liver dysfunction , kidney disease , etc. .: sinusitis, tonsillitis , esophagitis, ear problems, pharyngitis, Cohn’s disease , diabetes mellitus, Jorgen’s syndrome, helicobacter pylori , diverticula , excess digestive fermentations, enzyme imbalance , dry mouth , candidiasis , “smell of hunger” (ketosis smell), provoked for some low-carb diets, etc.

Halitosis – Causes

The most common cause is the volatile sulfur compounds (CVS) or products that result from the decomposition of the metabolism of anaerobic bacteria (gram-negative) that are located in greater proportion in the back of the tongue and in periodontal pockets.

The causes of halitosis can be pathological and not pathological.

Among the non-pathological we find:

Bad breath in the morning: it is caused by the flow of saliva that decreases during sleep, facilitating bacterial growth without control and therefore, a greater production of malodorous gases.

Age: the older, more halitosis. The elderly suffer changes in their salivary glands that directly affect the quality and quantity of saliva. This happens even with exaggerated dental hygiene.

Dental prostheses: with dentures, bridges, crowns, etc. You can strain debris and accumulate between the gum and the piece. If those remains remain in the mouth for many hours, it can produce very unpleasant odors: halitosis.

Some drugs: there are certain drugs that cause xerostomia (dry mouth syndrome). Drugs such as anticholinergic, antidepressants, etc. As the saliva with its enzymes favors the cleaning of the oral cavity, reducing the bad smell of the mouth.

Smoking: smoking produces bad breath. Even people who have quit smoking long ago still have the characteristic smell from inside.

Detoxifications: People who start taking detoxifying supplements can suffer what is called depurative crisis, among whose symptoms is a white tongue and bad breath.

Fasting: a hypo caloric diet favors bad breath.

Meals: there are certain foods that produce halitosis. Foods such as onions, garlic, alcohol, coffee, etc. Your metabolism can produce elements that pass from the intestine to the circulation and to the mucous and the liver and are expelled through the air from the lungs.

Halitosis due to pathological causes:

  • Diseases of the gums, cavities, etc.
  • Poor oral hygiene: poor elimination of biofilm or bacterial plaque. Its greater accumulation is usually in the back of the tongue, between the teeth, sub gingival area, abscesses, etc.
  • Stomach problems: ulcers, infections, stomatitis.
  • Pharynx: infections by viruses, bacterial infections, infections by candid’s, etc.
  • Necrosis by radiotherapy and chemotherapy

People can have episodes of halitosis and can also become chronic, so it would be very important to assess what the origin is and stop it as soon as possible.

In order to alleviate the problems of social rejection that cause of the evil to breathe in the people who suffer it, they have invented countless products and gadgets in order to neutralize the volatile compounds that give off the bad smell: chewing gums, candies, sprays, etc. That only masks the smell. There are also rinses and mouthwashes and mouth cleansers that eliminate some of the bacteria that cause bad breath, although they are not a solution to the problem, but a temporary solution.

A good ally against halitosis or bad breath is the activated charcoal that can be purchased as a complement, which fights the bacteria very well and elevates the defensive system in a 50 %.


5 teeth whitening remedies at home

Everyone would like to have perfect white teeth. Not only will you have a beautiful and radiant smile, but it also helps to give you a magnetic personality. If you’re reading these lines, maybe you’ve been thinking about paying a visit to your dentist to finally get rid of those yellow spots. You can have a bright smile without having to spend euros and euros on teeth whitening kits or other teeth whitening solutions.

From here, I want to provide you with a series of easy remedies that you can get in your kitchen and that will give you a white, bright and unblemished smile. Prepare your own homemade tooth whitening.

Banana skin

The banana is a fruit that contains many essential nutrients for your body. Surely you’ve heard more than once how much potassium you can get if you eat a single banana. But, did you know that we can also take advantage of its shell? The next time you eat a banana and you are going to throw away its skin, take the opportunity to rub it on your teeth for about two minutes. Then wait fifteen minutes and brush your teeth with a normal toothpaste. Repeat this process two or three times a week. After a while, you will notice a noticeable difference.

How can the banana peel help you whiten teeth? The banana peel also contains some essential minerals such as potassium, magnesium and manganese, which penetrates the teeth and help to whiten them.

Strawberries

Sweet strawberries, especially those that have a lively and bright color, can brighten your smile. All you have to do is take one to two strawberries, crushed into a small puree , and apply them to your teeth for two or three minutes. You can use your toothbrush and apply them with smooth and circular movements. After this process, you can rinse your mouth with water or brush your teeth with normal paste.

Strawberries help in two ways. On the one hand, they are a rich source of a natural enzyme known as malic acid. This acid is one of the key components in many whitening toothpastes. On the other, the fiber of the strawberries acts as a natural cleanser and helps eliminate bacteria from the mouth and teeth.

Peel and lemon juice

Another fruit that works as a teeth whitening effectively is lemon. The peel has a high level of acid, which works as a powerful bleach. In fact, you have two options when it comes to taking advantage of this fruit. You can rub the skin of the lemon on your teeth or apply its juice. To do this, you must mix the same amount of lemon juice with water.

It will be this mixture that you will use to brush your teeth. However, you must be very careful, since lemon acid can cause tooth decay and destroy the enamel by degrading its calcium. Therefore, it is not recommended to use more than twice a week and rest between periods of use and non-use.

Other fruits such as pineapple or oranges can also help keep your teeth clean, but they are not as effective because they do not contain as much acid as lemon.

Crunchy carrots

You can feel very happy the next time you hear the crunch of some carrots in your mouth. Why? The raw carrots are very beneficial to remove plaque from teeth and are popularly known as natural cleanser. The carrots, in addition, end up with the bacteria in our mouth, maintaining the acid-alkaline balance of this. So every time you’re eating carrots you’ll be whitening your teeth and helping you get healthier gums.

Apple and celery are also important bleaching agents. These foods are rich in vitamin C, which prevents gum disease and gingivitis and kill the bacteria that cause the bad smell.

Sodium bicarbonate

All dental health experts agree that one of the strongest and safest teeth whiteners is sodium bicarbonate. It is an excellent acid neutralizer and helps eliminate stains from the teeth, while protecting the enamel. You can mix a little salt with baking soda and apply it gently on the teeth. Let it sit for two or three minutes and rinse with water afterwards. You will have whiter and brighter teeth instantly.

Many toothpastes normally available on the market contain sodium bicarbonate, but if yours does not, you can sprinkle a little before brushing.

To ensure healthier teeth and gums, you can also use products enriched in calcium, such as milk or cheese. On the other hand, black tea and coffee can stain your teeth, so it’s best if you add some milk if you take them. An extra tip may be to use a straw to drink certain concoctions and thus avoid contact with the teeth.

These home remedies are totally safe and harmless, they are cheap and can provide you with surprisingly positive results.


How can I take care of my dental crowns

The dental crowns are part of the group of fixed prostheses in the world of dentistry and are the solution to various problems with the tooth structure. The dental crowns consist of a cover placed to restore both function and dental aesthetics and in some cases can be used to correct misalignments in the teeth when orthodontics is not an option.

There are several cases in which a dental crown is necessary, for example when a tooth is weak due to a decay and the dental crown protects it. It also serves to restore a tooth that is broken or too worn out, to cover and hold a tooth that has a large fill, to hold a dental bridge or to cover a deformed or missing tooth.

The preparation of dental pieces to receive dental crowns requires two or more consultations with the dentist. The first consultation is for the examination and preparation of the dental pieces and in the following the final dental crowns are installed.

Of course, dental crowns also need good care to perform their function correctly. The most important thing to note is that dental crowns need to be taken care of just like real teeth. For this reason, a gentle and constant brushing for at least 3 minutes with a toothpaste containing fluoride is important.

The use of dental floss is also important, emphasizing the area where the gum meets the tooth. The dental crowns can also suffer from root caries or diseases affecting the gums. Do not forget to complement your dental hygiene routine with a good fluoride mouth rinse. Your teeth and dental crowns will thank you.


How do the milk teeth fall and the definitive ones come out

The first baby teeth usually occurs after the child’s five years of age. But how does this fall of the milk teeth and subsequent exit of the final dentition occur?

We speak, of course, of the natural process of falling of the milk teeth, and not of accidents that cause the early fall of the tooth.

When the children have completed their milk teeth until the first of the teeth falls, there is a period of time (about three years) during which the mouth does not undergo any external change, as far as the teeth are concerned. However, the arches (the dental arches, which are the group of teeth in the jaw or in the maxilla, superior and inferior) are going to increase in size and inside the gums they are producing important and continuous changes.

What happens so that the milk teeth fall?

When the date of the first visit approaching, we observe an increasing mobility of the lower central incisors, until the first fall of a milk tooth occurs. The teeth begin to fall leaving a gap where the new tooth appears. But the first thing that has happened is that the permanent tooth that is under the gum begins to press the milk tooth, beginning to loosen it.

When the final teeth emerge, they do so by eroding the roots of milk teeth that will begin to move and fall. But sometimes, the final tooth erupts next to the milk tooth and not under it, so it will not wear out its root and both will appear in the mouth, forming a double row of teeth. This is more frequent in the incisors. If we observe it, we must inform the dentist. In these cases, usually when the milk tooth falls the definitive will move occupying the empty place.

Another factor to take into account is that the permanent teeth that come out are larger than those of milk, so the separation they had between them disappears when they fall. New teeth are not always well placed, because being larger than those they replace, they do not have enough space to position themselves correctly and leave “where they can”. Therefore, during the change of teeth, the teeth may be crooked, although when they are completed, they are generally aligned a little on their own.

In what order do the final teeth come out?

The lower incisors are born in the internal part of the gum, behind the milk teeth, pushing them outwards. In the mouth of the children you can see the pits of the new incisors behind the incisors of milk that have not yet fallen.

In the case of the upper teeth, they will be born in front of the gum pushing the milk teeth inward before their fall. The “shovels” leave around 6 or 7 years.

Also, almost at the time that the first teeth fall, an important piece makes its appearance, the first definitive molar that will come out from behind the last milk teeth. These do not replace any but occupy the free space behind the second molars that have not yet fallen and live with them for some years. The bottom ones appear first and then the top ones.

Milk teeth

We are in stages of “mixed dentition”, a period in which we find temporary teeth and definitive teeth in the mouth at the same time.

The First Phase mixed dentition occurs when the mouth has, at age eight, a mixture of permanent teeth (four upper and four lower incisors, next to the first molars) and temporary teeth (canines next to the first and second molars of milk).

The Mixed Second Phase dentition happens around eleven years old, when the lower definitive canines, the first upper premolars (replacing the first temporary molars), the lower ones, second upper and lower premolars (replacing the second molars of milk) appear.

It will not be until twelve or thirteen years when the last baby teeth will fall, the upper canines.

And there will still be more changes, with the older children and the second permanent molar, and a few years later with the wisdom tooth, which does not always appear.

During these processes of falling of the milk teeth it is necessary to continue cleaning the teeth carefully waiting for a new denture also healthy, strong and much more durable than the previous one. Because the new teeth no longer change and you also have to take care of them.


How does stress affect the mouths of children

It is undeniable that we live in a world of stress: work, family, hurry … Who was a child again, the only ones immune to this frenetic pace, abstracted from reality in their world of games and fun. But apparently they are not saved either. According to the US Society of Anxiety and Stress Studies, there is a worrying increase in stress among the youngest children, figures that range from 8% in the child population to 20% in adolescents. And what does this have to do with the mouths of children? So much, since it is one of the parts of the body most sensitive to stress and is affected at various levels:

  • Psychic effects: compulsive eating and usually rich in sugars, increases the risk of tooth decay.
  • Physiological: they increase the levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, which causes alterations in the immune system, and there is also a decrease in the secretion of saliva and the oral environment becomes more acid, favoring the appearance of erosion and cavities.
  • Behavioral: alterations in the diet, appearance of compulsive habits such as sucking the finger, nibbling the cheeks or lip, suction of the lower lip, bruxism and abandonment of oral hygiene, which can directly or indirectly affect your oral health.

Taking into account that childhood is an important phase in the formation of teeth, it is advisable to reduce possible stress situations. In addition, it is necessary to insist on generating the habit of brushing the teeth at least 2 times a day or after meals for at least 2 minutes with the correct technique and with the products that best suit them.


How is the tooth whitening process

Foods rich in tannins, coffee and especially tobacco, make the teeth yellow. Undoubtedly, when this happens is something quite unsightly, so it is advisable to perform teeth whitening. This process to whiten teeth should always be done by a professional. In this article we will detail in 5 simple steps how teeth are whitened.

Before starting the process to whiten the teeth , it is convenient to make a previous visit to the clinic so that the professional can inspect the denture and analyze the dental whitening treatment that the patient needs , its duration or if he needs more than one session to whiten teeth.

Once determined by the professional the type of dental whitening treatment that the patient needs, an appointment is made to perform the teeth whitening. Let’s see below how to whiten teeth quickly and effectively in 5 easy steps.

Laser teeth whitening process

  1. First of all, it should be noted that clinical treatments for whitening teeth are performed in a session that usually does not exceed 50 minutes. The first phase of the teeth whitening treatment is to prepare the mouth for teeth whitening. Normally a protector is used that has a double function: to keep the mouth open so that there are no alterations during the teeth whitening process and to delimit the area to be bleached.
  2. In the second phase of the teeth whitening process, a barrier is fixed with a resinous material to protect the gums and small gingival incisions. This resin hardens and prevents the gums from being affected in the teeth whitening process. Laser teeth whitening.
  3. Then the so-called bleaching agent is applied on the teeth with a small brush. It is a very important phase of the process, because you have to coat the entire surface of the teeth with the whitening gel, without leaving a small free space so that tooth whitening is uniform. This bleaching gel can be composed of two materials: carbide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. The only difference between the two products is that the carbide peroxide acts more slowly, so the teeth whitening treatment can be extended a little longer.
  4. Once the whitening gel has been supplied throughout the denture, it is time to apply the laser or the LED lights that promote the rapidity with which the bleaching agent acts. Although the application of the beam of light never exceeds 30 seconds, it is mandatory that the patient wear protective goggles to keep the eyes safe in this phase of the teeth whitening process. It is a very important moment of the process to whiten the teeth, since it is the application of this beam of light which causes the oxidation of the peroxide gel. Teeth whitening is constantly evolving, which is why the laser is giving way to LED lights in teeth whitening treatments.
  5. In the last phase of the treatment to whiten the teeth, the dentist removes the protective resin from the gums, the protector of the mouth and it is time to evaluate the results and compare the previous color that the teeth had with that obtained after the teeth whitening.

You already know how to whiten teeth in a safe and professional way. And as you can see, tooth whitening is an effective technique thanks to the experience that professionals have in this type of treatment. In addition, it is an economical, effective and above all quick method to get the denture to recover its natural color.


How many bacteria live in the mouth

We all hear about how complicated the situation of the mouth is at the bacteriological level, is not it? We know that our mouth is full of things and that’s why we keep it as clean as possible, day after day.

But, did you ever wonder how big that amount really is and what kind of things make up that amount? The mouth is a real jungle inhabited by bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoa. Let’s see some details about it.

Bad breath is a serious problem at the social level and of course, a nuisance for the interlocutor in front of you. But visualizing this in biological terms, that ugly smell in the mouth can be less worrisome, because the cause of bad breath are our well-loved bacteria, microscopic organisms that inhabit our interior, home, sweet home.

Now, how many bacteria live in the mouth? Thousands? Rather billions. That warm and humid world that your mouth represents for them, offers the perfect medium for its proliferation existence. Suffice to yawn or suck through the mouth so that millions of them open their way and settle comfortably in your oral cavity, whether in the teeth, gums, tongue or saliva.

According to various research around the world, it is estimated that there are no less than 100 million bacteria per millimeter of saliva that contains your mouth, which are made up of more than 600 different bacteria species. More specifically, experts from the Harvard School of Dental Medicine have counted exactly 615 species of bacteria known to date.

We all hear about how complicated the situation of the mouth is at the bacteriological level, is not it? We know that our mouth is full of things and that’s why we keep it as clean as possible, day after day. But, did you ever wonder how big that amount really is and what kind of things make up that amount? The mouth is a real jungle inhabited by bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoa.

The bacteria of the mouth

Bad breath is a serious problem at the social level and of course, a nuisance for the interlocutor in front of you. But visualizing this in biological terms, that ugly smell in the mouth can be less worrisome, because the cause of bad breath are our well-loved bacteria, organisms that inhabit our interior, home, sweet home.

This warm and humid world that your mouth represents for them, offers the perfect medium for its existence and proliferation and can be installed comfortably in your oral cavity.

Why there are so many bacteria in the mouth and what happens to them?

Because the mouth is like a paradise for these microrgsnimos With a warm temperature of 35 ° C, giant white platelets with cracks and comfortable perfect caves in which to take refuge, as well as muddy surfaces full of sweets and carbohydrates.

However, when they enter the mouth it does not always end up being a good idea for them. Normally, bacteria do not have much future inside our body. As much as we have such an amount, many of them are directed to the digestive tract when we swallow the saliva and there drain into the stomach, where they are killed immediately by the enzymes of our large processor organ. The rest of them even die right there in the mouth, where the enzymes of the saliva literally disintegrate them.

However, not all run with such bad luck. Many of them can be kept alive and in fact, if they do not take the proper care, they survive. When this happens, they can make holes in our teeth or in the open wounds of the gums, lips and palate, generating cavities, among other large number of problems. Some examples of well-known bacteria that reside in your mouth are: Streptococcus mutans, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Streptococcus salivarius.

Very interesting, do not you think? This is why oral hygiene is so important, although you have already drawn your own conclusions … Do you know any other type of bacteria that lives in the mouth?


How many teeth do we have

How many teeth do we have? Have you asked yourself that? Well, the answer depends on some factors, the most important factor is age. Children and adults have different sets of teeth. So, how many teeth do children have?

Milk teeth

Children begin teething around six months of age. The technical term for these first teeth is deciduous teeth, because they eventually fall, like the leaves of trees in autumn. Most people know these teeth as baby teeth, although sometimes they are also called baby teeth or primary teeth.

In total, children have 20 milk teeth – 10 on the top and 10 on the bottom. These teeth act as placeholders for adult teeth, which grow after the baby’s teeth fall off. Keep in mind that these teeth are destined to fall, does not mean that they should not be treated in the same way that the teeth of adults are taken care of. Developing healthy eating habits and good brushing habits should begin soon after the child starts teething. By age six, most children begin to lose their milk teeth, which are then replaced by permanent teeth. This process will continue in early adolescence.

Teeth in adults

Adults have more teeth than children; most adults have 32 teeth. These teeth are: 8 incisors, 4 canines, 8 premolars and 12 molars (including the 4 wisdom teeth). Most people have a complete set of adult teeth by the time they reach adolescence. It is very common for adults not to have their wisdom teeth, because there is not always enough space for them to grow comfortably or without causing misalignment of the other teeth.

So, how many teeth do we have? In general, children have 20 and adults have 32. And each of them needs your care.


How sugar affects your teeth and other oral health tips

Oral health is something that worries all people. We all like to be able to wear a beautiful smile and everyone knows that sugar is one of the enemies of a healthy smile. For this reason, you should avoid some foods or behaviors and here we give you some oral health advice.

Why sugar is so bad for your teeth

It depends on the foods you eat, they can affect your teeth in one way or another. In the case of sugar, this is very harmful to your teeth because the bacteria in your mouth eat sugar and produce acids that can damage the enamel of the teeth and cause cavities.

Likewise, you should know that the higher the consumption of sugary foods, the more likely you are to decrease the amount of tooth enamel and, therefore, to develop caries.

How to prevent some oral health problems

The twenty minutes after consuming sugar are crucial. In that period of time the amount of sugar for bacteria is maximum. Therefore, you should brush your teeth within this time frame.

In the same way, you should pay attention to the labels of the foods you buy, since in some hidden sugars may be present that you will only discover if you look at the labels.

Of course, it is important that you brush your teeth at least three times a day, and if you can use fluoride and dental floss, better, since you will have a more complete oral hygiene.

In addition, diet greatly influences oral health. A balanced diet rich in vegetables, proteins, fruits, cereals and low-fat dairy will make your defenses stronger against the attacks of bacteria.