Did you know that the tongue can be the primary cause for bad breath? Some of the causes for bad breath include diets high in sulfur compounds (garlic and onions), dry mouth, periodontal disease, or gastric problems. At first glance, your tongue may seem like a pretty benign, ordinary structure in your mouth. At the microscopic level, the tongue looks like a thick carpet, made up of millions of papilla where odor-causing bacteria and food particles reside. Over time, the buildup that manifests gives the tongue a white or yellowish brown coated appearance. In more severe cases the actual diagnosis given is “hairy tongue,” when the tongue appears to have hairlike structures growing on the top surface. Now that we have discussed what can grow on your tongue, it’s easy to understand this problem can make your breath smell like something died inside your mouth! However, do not fear. For the most part, this problem is easily preventable. All it takes is 30 to 60 seconds of thorough brushing with toothpaste followed by a good rinse with water every day. Using a tongue scraper is also advised to help remove the debris once it has been loosened with the toothbrush. For severe cases, an antimicrobial rinse may be recommended.
The crowns of your teeth are made up of three layers: enamel, dentin, and pulp. Enamel is the outer layer, which is also the also the hardest substance in your body. The dentin is the next layer, which is softer than enamel, containing the nerve endings and dentinal tubules extending from the pulp chamber. The pulp is the inner core of the tooth, where the nerves and blood vessels are located. Maintaining the integrity of the enamel is very important for preservation of the teeth as a whole. Parafunctional habits such as nighttime bruxism (grinding/clenching), nail biting, ice chewing, or anything else that doesn’t involve eating food, talking, and smiling, will wear the enamel away, making the tooth susceptible to fracture and decay. One of the most common and more destructive habits we find is the nighttime grinding. In severe cases, as much as half of the tooth structure is completely gone! Remember, it’s not normal for the teeth to wear down, even with old age. The key to fixing these problems is preventing them altogether. Having a night guard made and wearing it daily will equate to a large return on investment. Learn more about night guards here.
It's that time again when everyone is making their new year’s resolutions in an attempt to make changes in their lives. One of the primary objectives of my dental practice is to educate my patients about the importance of prevention. In doing so, I stress the impact of daily flossing, brushing, reducing sugar intake, and maintaining a regular dental check-up schedule. With every person, my hope is that I can influence their mindset, not only about their teeth, but their overall health and lifestyle. After all, when it comes to your health, the changes you make now will impact the rest of your life. Whatever resolutions you have made for this year, whether they are dental-related or not, use the well-known acronym “SMART” to help you achieve your goals. Effective goals are:
S- Specific: Be very clear about what it is you want to accomplish.
M- Measurable: Determine how you can track your progress by keeping score and making yourself more accountable.
A- Achievable: Sometimes it’s better to start small and take baby steps towards perfection. Be honest and realistic.
R- Relevant: Do something that hits close to home, and will hopefully inspire changes that are life-changing.
T- Time-bound: Make sure you give yourself enough time to accomplish your goals.
Have a happy and healthy 2018, everyone!