4 Tips for Improving Oral Health

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Most Americans are aware that brushing and flossing on a routine basis each day is an optimal way of improving oral health. However, there are many other steps a person can take to enhance the care he or she provides for their teeth, gums and mouth. Those who wish to take a better approach towards oral health care may benefit from exploring the following suggestions:

Tip #1 Choose the Right Brush

Although many individuals may learn the best way to brush and that regular tooth brushing is imperative to optimal oral health, few ascertain which product works best for them. While there are a variety of high-powered dental gadgets on the market, it is important for all individuals to also consider the basics when assessing what brush works the best. For example, individuals may want to invest in a brush that offers medium or soft bristles—depending on a person’s dental sensitivity. Hard bristles, on the other hand, can prove too rough and damage teeth.

Tip #2 Find a Good Mouthwash

Mouthwash is one of the best ways to clean and treat hard-to-reach areas of the mouth and is a great option for killing germs that can harm the oral cavity. However, consumers may want to think twice before choosing a mouthwash that contains alcohol. Alcohol-based mouthwashes are known to dry out the mouth, which can prove somewhat harmful to oral health, as saliva is an important component for healing and sustained dental care.

Tip #3 Do Not Opt Out of Regular Dental Visits

Many individuals who believe they practice an appropriate amount of dental hygiene often feel that they should only visit a dentist when pain or oral emergency occurs. However, it is essential that individuals have their teeth professionally cleaned and inspected every six months to maintain a high level oral health. Taking this precaution can keep teeth in good shape and help identify oral health problems before they turn into dental emergencies.

Tip #4. Eat A Dental-Friendly Diet

Most people understand that acidic sodas and sugary drinks can lead to the decay of teeth; however, few are aware of what foods can help strengthen one’s oral health. For instance, nuts, meats and dairy products can help fortify the enamel, helping one protect against dental impairment. In addition, dental patients may want to consider adding more essential vitamins to their daily dietary intake, especially those found in the vitamin B-complex family, as these nutrients can help protect against tooth decay and oral disease.

FAQ about Oral Cancer

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As a dental professional and supporter of the Oral Cancer Foundation Walk for Awareness of Nashville, Warren Melamed maintains that it is important for all individuals to learn about the risk of oral cancer. Although research and charitable efforts have helped pave the way for new treatments and resources for those affected by oral cancer, Melamed explains that knowledge is the first step to diminishing this devastating medical condition. As such, the following offers a few frequently asked questions and answers to better inform those who wish to learn more about the subject:

What exactly is oral cancer?

Like other forms of cancer, oral cancer refers to an unusual growth of cells—specifically in the oral region. This can include formation of cancer cells in the mouth, as well as the tongue. While this condition can take many forms, oral cancer is typically identified as a squamous cell carcinoma, or when the cells of the oral cavity are affected.

Who is at risk for oral cancer?

Oral cancer occurs in individuals of all backgrounds due to factors such as age, genetics, diet and preexisting health. However, approximately 90 percent of oral cancer patients smoke or chew tobacco, which means that those who participate in these habits should consider the heightened risk of developing this condition. Smoking or chewing tobacco raises the risk of oral cancer the longer a person partakes in the habit; therefore, it is recommended that those who develop the practice find a way to quit as early as possible to reduce risk. Those who smoke or chew tobacco also face risk of developing cancer in other parts of their bodies, such as the lungs, throat and kidney.

What are the symptoms of oral cancer?

Oral cancer can manifest itself differently in those who are affected by it. However, many who have endured this condition have faced oral symptoms such as sores or lumps that do not heal, unusual bleeding, numbness, white and red patches, dental pain and difficulty swallowing. Others may experience unexpected weight loss, swelling in the neck that does not disappear, ear pain and a change in one’s voice.

How is oral cancer treated?

If detected early enough, oral cancer patients stand to face a high risk of recovery from the condition. Chemotherapy, radiation and surgery are often relied upon to remove the cancer and prevent it from spreading further. In some cases, an individual may have to have part of their oral cavity removed and reconstructed.

What should a person do if he or she suspects oral cancer?

Visiting a dentist regularly is an optimal way of detecting oral cancer before it develops too far and maintain oral health.However, it is important for all individuals who experience symptoms of oral cancer to not only consult their primary care physician and doctor, but to gain insight from a trusted oncologist who specializes in the treatment of oral cancer. While the diagnosis may prove a difficult experience for most, it is recommended that oral cancer patients seek a second opinion from another specialist in order to determine what the best course of action is for the individual.

Tips for Diagnosing and Treating Tooth Pain

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Toothaches can be extraordinarily painful. Sometimes the pain is all you can think about. There are many causes of tooth pain, the most obvious of which is a problem with the tooth or jaw. The dental causes of tooth pain fall into three categories:

Damage: Trauma, including chips and breakage, can cause damage to teeth. This breakage can cause tooth pain.

Decay: Tooth decay has several degrees of severity. Cavities are holes that penetrate the enamel and the underlying dentin and cause pain. Abscesses are more severe. When an abscess occurs, the dental nerves and pulp become infected.

Disease: Redness and swelling of the gums indicate gum disease or gingivitis. Gum disease can cause gum and tooth pain. Other diseases, including oral cancer, may also contribute to tooth pain.

If you have tooth pain that persists for longer than one or two days, make a dentist appointment immediately. Unless it is an emergency, says dentist Warren Melamed, it is likely that you will have to wait a few days for your appointment.

If you have a toothache and cannot see a dentist right away, here are some things you can do to relieve pain while you wait:

• Avoid foods and beverages that are very cold or very hot. The decay or damage may have exposed the dentin layer of the tooth. Extreme temperatures may cause additional pain.
• Use over-the-counter pain relief medicine that is designed to reduce inflammation. Never put pain relief medication directly on the tooth or gum tissue as this application could damage these areas.
• Gently floss between the painful teeth. Removing the food particles and plaque may help to reduce the pain from the toothache.
• Use clove oil, or eugenol, for pain relief. Clove oil has both antiseptic and anesthetic properties. Soak a small piece of cotton in the oil anduse a pair of tweezers to hold the cotton on the tooth for 10 seconds. Make sure that you do not swallow any of the oil.
• Rinse with warm salt water.Salt water works as an antiseptic, removing bacteria from the infected or vulnerable area. Rinsing may provide additional pain relief.

There are some causes of tooth pain that are not directly related to your dental health. If none of the three general categories of pain are causing the problem, consider the following conditions:

• Sinus Infection: Sinuses that are infected can become swollen, putting pressure on certain teeth.
• Cluster Headache: Cluster headaches cause pressure that may contribute to tooth pain. Their exact cause remains unknown.
• Heart Attack: Pain from a heart attack may radiate into the lower jaw.
• Diabetes: Uncontrolled blood sugar can increase your risk of tooth decay. Frequent cavities may be an indication of a more serious problem.
• Viral Infections: Viral infections such as shingles can cause tooth pain.
• Nerve Diseases: Trigeminal neuralgia is an example of a nerve disease that is associated with sharp pain on one side of the face. 

Toothaches are preventable in most cases, especially when the pain is caused by decay. Follow good oral hygiene practices, making sure to brush and floss twice a day. Sealants and fluoride applications can also defend your teeth from bacteria. Consult with your dentist for more information on how to protect your teeth.