osteoporosis-and-oral-health

Osteoporosis and Oral Health

Osteoporosis is a condition in which a patient sees reduced density and quality of their bones. This condition can also have harmful dental affects because of its impact on the jawbone, which is what supports your teeth. If you have osteoporosis, here’s how it could affect your oral health.

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a condition that affects the bones. Healthline explains the inside of a healthy bone is made up of small spaces and looks a lot like a honeycomb. When a patient is diagnosed with osteoporosis, this means that those spaces are increasing in size which causes the bones to lose strength and density. Further, this makes the outside of the bone grow weaker and thinner. People with this condition are more likely to experience a fracture or bone break while doing simple activities like standing or walking.

Healthline further details the risk factors for developing this condition. The major risk factors can include: 

  • Age – this is often the biggest risk factor. When we’re young, our body breaks down old bones and is able to grow new. However, after a certain age, the body breaks these bones down faster than it’s able to replace it. This leads to loss of bone density and more fragile bones. 
  • Menopause – another major risk factor is menopause Women from 45-55 years old are often to lose bone at a faster rate due to the change in hormone levels. Men often lose bones around these ages too, however, it happens at a much slower rate than women. By ages 65-70, men and women are usually losing bones at the same rate. 

While those are the most common causes, other causes can include being:

  • Female 
  • White or Asian
  • Genetically inclined 
  • Malnourished 
  • Inactive
  • A smoker
  • Low in weight 

Symptoms of Osteoporosis 

People who suffer from osteoporosis can easily suffer an injury from doing simple tasks like walking or bumping into the coffee table. In the early development of this condition, many people won’t even realize they have it until they suffer an injury. However, once the bones are weakened, symptoms can include:

  • Back pain
  • Loss of height
  • Stooped posture
  • Fragile bones 

However, the bones affected aren’t just your hips or wrists, it can also be your jaw. Studies have shown that there is a link between the loss of jaw bone, also known as the alveolar bone, and an increase in loose teeth and tooth loss. This low bone density in the jaw can cause more dental problems as well. It can also cause dentures to not fit correctly and delay in healing from other oral surgical procedures. More often than not, this affects women and their jaws. 

Treatments for Osteoporosis 

Unfortunately, it’s hard to completely heal from this condition. However, the good news is that there are things you can do to feel better. There are medications to help, along with making lifestyle changes to help you feel relief from the pain.

Prevention

Thankfully, you can do a lot to keep your bones strong and healthy as you age. If you’re not doing these already, here’s what you can do to help protect your bones:

  • Supplement vitamin D or get outside and get it from the sunshine
  • Eat a healthy diet. Foods like fish, cheese, and dairy all have loads of vitamin D
  • Quit smoking
  • Exercise to stay strong 

In addition to taking care of your body to protect your bones, you should also protect your teeth to keep them healthy and strong. 

Taking Care of Your Teeth with Osteoporosis 

In addition to everything above, you should focus on taking care of your teeth when you have osteoporosis. A good oral hygiene routine is essential to doing all you can to prevent tooth loss. Ideally, your dental hygiene routine should look like: 

  • Brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time 
  • Flossing once a day to remove debris stuck between teeth 

However, one of the most important parts of your dental hygiene routine is seeing your dentist regularly. Getting regular dental checkups can help maintain any problems you already have or treat them altogether, prevent new problems from happening, and get your mouth sparkling clean each time. 

Make an Appointment with Dr. Ania

If you are having jaw problems or other dental health issues, make an appointment today with Dr. Ania. Dr. Ania focuses on your oral health, but also looks at how your oral health relates to other parts of your body. Using biological dentistry, Dr. Ania will consider the whole picture before prescribing treatments to help alleviate chronic pain and stress points. Make an appointment to learn more today: (303)-872-9940. 

Posted: July 23, 2020 By: Comment: 0
what-if-you-couldnt-taste

What if You Couldn’t Taste?

We consume foods and drinks to help keep our bodies functioning properly, however, going out for a meal or drink often means much more to us. Meals are a way for us to connect with our families after a long day, coffee runs help us wake up in the morning, and a dessert date is a fun way to get to know someone a little better. The reason we can do all of these things is because we’re able to taste and enjoy what we’re consuming — and we can do that because of our taste buds.

The Taste Buds 

There are five basic tastes according to Colgate: sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and savory. We’re able to taste these while we eat and drink due to the sensory cells in our mouth and throat. These sensory cells, also known as gustatory cells, start working when tiny molecules are released when you take a sip of a drink or a bite of food. These cells are grouped together with the taste buds found on the tongue and at the roof of the mouth. 

We are able to taste — and smell — because of these cells. While tasting and smelling are two different senses, they are intimately entwined, says brainfacts.org. Just think about it: why does the smell of a pizza in the oven or coffee in the morning make your mouth water? The chemicals in food are detected by our taste buds, and when stimulated, the cells send a message to the brain which makes us aware of what we’re tasting. Smell works in a similar way. Specialized cells within the nose pick up odors that stimulate receptor proteins on the sensory cells. In the end, taste and smell come together to allow us to really taste and savor what we’re consuming. 

Taste Bud Changes 

As people age, it’s normal to lose a bit of their ability to taste and smell certain things. Along with age, some people might not be able to use these senses due to underlying conditions like allergies, medication side effects, other dental issues, and more. 

Changes in the taste buds mean that the way we perceive certain tastes can also change her time. A food you once loved can suddenly taste like nothing, or something you once hated you might love now! 

Taste buds can change for a short period of time, but sometimes taste bud changes are long-term depending on the cause. Healthline explains common reasons that your taste buds can become impaired: 

  • Viral or bacterial infections. Upper respiratory infections can cause your nose to run or become stuffy. These problems can reduce your sense of smell and taste, which could be why loss of taste and smell is a symptom of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19. 
  • Medical conditions. Disorders like Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s can change a person’s perception of taste. Additionally, some diseases, like cancer, can do the same (especially during treatment). 
  • Nutrient deficiencies. Malnutrition can cause deficiency in vitamins and minerals that we need to be able to use our senses properly. 
  • Nerve damage. When a person has nerve damage along the pathway from the mouth to the brain, they can cause a change in taste buds. 
  • Medications. Some medicine can change your taste buds as a side effect. Most commonly, high blood pressure medication is to blame. 
  • Aging. Like we mentioned above, losing some perception of taste and smell is common as we age. 
  • Smoking. Those who smoke are more likely to experience a change in taste, along with other side effects, due to the carcinogens and alkaloids found in the cigarettes. 

Healing Taste Buds 

Most of the causes, like illness or taking a medication, means that your change in taste is probably short-term. In most cases, normal taste and smell will return once you’re better or quit taking the medication. If the taste buds were damaged due to nerve damage, it depends on the severity whether or not you’ll regain your ability to taste normally again. 

Make an Appointment with Dr. Ania 

If you have noticed your sense of taste dwindling, come see Dr. Ania to learn about your options. We know that enjoying food and drink is an experience and that you want to continue to enjoy your favorite things for years to come. Make an appointment now or call (303)-872-9940. 

Please note: if you have sudden loss of taste and smell and have been exposed to COVID-19, please find your local testing center and hold off on coming to the dentist. 

Posted: July 9, 2020 By: Comment: 0
Are-My-Oral-Health-Problems-Genetic

Are My Oral Health Problems Genetic?

Did you know that some oral health problems are genetic? Unfortunately, more than just your height and eye color can be passed down to you by your parents. For some families, they run the risk of having increased oral health problems. Here are some common genetic oral health problems and how you can fight them.

Common Genetic Oral Health Problems

While not oral health problems are considered genetic, some are. While family genes can play a big role in oral conditions, other factors like our lifestyles, diets, and more can too. Colgate lists some of the genetic defects that can affect your mouth:

Anodontia

This is the complete absence of teeth. Though it’s genetic, anodontia is extremely rare. 

Hypodontia

This condition is also known as partial anodontia, which is when a person is missing up to five teeth from birth, not including their wisdom teeth. Most commonly missing are the premolars and lateral incisors. Affecting 1 in 18 people, this is the most common dental genetic abnormality.

Amelogenesis

Defective or missing enamel is classified under amelogenesis. Enamel is the protective outer layer of the teeth. This condition can also cause malocclusion or misalignment. Amelogenesis is rare, affecting 1 out of every 7,000-14,000 people. 

Dentinogenesis Imperfecta

This condition results in discoloration of the teeth. With it, the teeth are also more weak and prone to breakage. 

Cleft Lip and Palate

A cleft lip is an oral malformation that occurs during the development of the baby during pregnancy. The result is an improper formation of the roof of the mouth, the lips, or both. 

Gum Disease

In addition to these more-rare problems, common dental health issues like gum disease can also link to genetics. The American Academy of Periodontology reports that research has indicated people may be genetically susceptible to gum disease, even despite having a good oral healthcare routine.  

Common Illnesses that Cause Oral Health Problems

In addition to getting oral conditions from your parents, sometimes other health problems can have negative affects on our oral health and vice versa. Mayo Clinic explains the link between various diseases and oral health:

  • Endocarditis: This is an infection of the inner lining of your heart chambers or valves, and typically occurs when bacteria or other germs from other places of your body, like the mouth, spread through the bloodstream and attach to the heart. 
  • Cardiovascular disease: Though this can be caused by a number of other factors, research suggests that clogged arteries and stroke could be linked to the inflammation and infections that oral bacteria can cause. 
  • Pregnancy and birth complications: Periodontitis has been linked to birth problems and low birth weight.
  • Pneumonia: bacteria in the mouth can make its way into your lungs, which can cause pneumonia and other respiratory diseases. 
  • Diabetes: by reducing the body’s ability to fight infection, diabetes can put your gums at risk. Gum disease has been shown to be more frequent and severe in people who also have diabetes. Further research has shown that people with gum disease have a more difficult time managing their blood sugar, however, regular periodontal care can improve diabetes control. 
  • HIV/Aids: Painful lesions are common in those who have HIV/Aids.
  • Osteoporosis: This disease attacks the bones, making them weak. Due to this, osteoporosis patients can have periodontal bone and tooth loss. 
  • Alzheimer’s disease: As this disease progresses, many tend to have worsening oral health. 

Taking Care of Your Oral Health

While you can’t prevent every oral health problem, you can take significant action that can help reduce the risk and severity of future complications. To take care of your teeth and gums, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene each and every day. A proper oral healthcare routine at home for most people includes:

  • Brushing your teeth in the morning and right before bed 
  • Using fluoride toothpaste 
  • Flossing each day 
  • Limiting added sugar and acidic food and drinks

However, one of the most important parts of taking care of your oral health is visiting your dentist at least twice a year, or once every six months. Your dentist and their team will examine and deep clean your mouth, looking for signs of problems in areas you might not be able to see. Catching problems early is a good way to keep them from developing into something serious that’s harder to control. Your dentist will be trained to look in those hard-to-see spots for cavities, decay, and more that, if left untreated, could cause tooth loss. 

Call Dr. Ania

While not oral health problems are genetic, some could be. The best way to know is to talk about it with your dentist. If you’re overdue for a dentist appointment, call Dr. Ania’s team today at (303)-872-9940. Prioritizing your health and working hard to keep you safe and healthy during COVID-19, Dr. Ania is here to help keep your mouth healthy and your smile big. Make an appointment now! 

 

Posted: July 1, 2020 By: Comment: 0
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Why Your Migraines Might be Caused by Oral Bacteria

Migraines have always been difficult to understand. With many different factors that could be contributing to your headaches, it can be hard to narrow down the exact cause. If you have migraines, have you considered that oral bacteria could be to blame? Here’s what to know about the bacteria in your mouth and migraines. 

What is a Migraine Headache?

A migraine is a recurring kind of headache that can cause severe throbbing or pulsating pain. Oftentimes, the pain is located on one side of the head. When people get migraines, they most usually happen in four different stages. MedlinePlus explains those stages:

  • Stage 1: Prodrome – this stage happens the day before you get your migraine. Early signs can be food cravings, unexplained mood changes, fluid retention, increased urination, and even uncontrollable yawning
  • Stage 2: Aura – when people have this phase, they tend to see flashing or bright lights or zig-zag lines. This phase can also bring on muscle weakness. Auras typically begin right before a migraine begins
  • Stage 3: Headache – a migraine tends to begin gradually, becoming more severe as it continues. Most people feel throbbing or pulsing pain on one side of the head. In some instances, people can have a migraine without a headache. When that happens, symptoms can include: increased sensitivity to light, sound, and smell, nausea and vomiting, and worsened pain when you move, cough, or sneeze
  • Stage 4: Postdrome – after the headache ends, many people feel tired, weak, or even confused for up to 24 hours after the fact 

Oral Bacteria and Migraines 

In recent years, there have been more studies focusing on the link that oral bacteria could play in those who suffer from migraines. Many who suffer from a migraine headache often have triggers, like food or caffeine, that can spring the headache on them after they are consumed. 

Researchers have found that, in migraine sufferers, there is a significant more amount of microbes that break down nitrates found in certain foods. CBC explains that these bacteria play a crucial role in processing nitrates so they can be converted into nitric oxide in the bloodstream. This process widens blood vessels and improves circulation. The link to migraines here is that, though this process is good for the cardiovascular system, the abundance of these bacteria can break down nitrates more quickly. When this happens, blood vessels in the brain and scalp dilate, which triggers the migraine. 

Many doctors recommend avoiding processed foods because of this, in hopes that patients can avoid the recurrence of migraine headaches.

Removing Oral Bacteria

Some bacteria are healthy and needed within the body, however, there are many types of bacteria that aren’t needed or good for you. The mouth can contain more than 700 species of bacteria. Some of this bacteria helps keep your mouth healthy and helps you break down food, however, some bacteria can cause tooth decay, gum disease, or even migraines. 

To remove oral bacteria, you need to have a good, consistent dental hygiene routine. This routine should include:

  • Brushing twice a day, two minutes each time. This will help prevent plaque buildup, which can quickly load your mouth full of bacteria if not removed. When plaque isn’t cleaned off the teeth, tartar can form. Tartar can only be removed by a dentist. 
  • Floss once a day. Flossing can help get into those hard-to-reach spots in your mouth and remove food and debris that could be holding onto bacteria. 
  • Rinse with mouthwash. If your mouth doesn’t feel as clean as you like after brushing your teeth, add a mouthwash into your routine. This can help kill bacteria and protect your teeth’s enamel. 
  • Watch what you eat. Foods and drinks loaded with sugar can cause excess bacteria. Bacteria in the mouth thrive and grow on sugar, so when you eat sweets your mouth is building a habitat for bacteria to thrive. 
  • See your dentist regularly. Your dentist and their team can deep clean your mouth and help keep plaque and tartar at bay so your mouth doesn’t hold onto more bacteria than it needs. Plaque and tartar can be hard to see, but dentists are trained to look out for them and can get the build up off your teeth so you leave with a fresh mouth (and hopefully headache-free). 

Make an Appointment with Dr. Ania

If you suffer from migraines and believe it could be due to oral bacteria, come in and see Dr. Ania. Dr. Ania and her team are trained to look out for the harmful bacteria that could be lurking in your mouth, and can remove it at once. Make an appointment online or call today at: (303)-872-9940. 

 

Posted: June 25, 2020 By: Comment: 0
4-ways-to-prepare-for-your-next-dental-appointment

4 Ways to Prepare for Your Next Dental Appointment for Less Anxiety

Most people tend to feel a little anxious before coming to the dentist. If you’re one of those patients that feels a little anxiety before coming to a dental exam, there are things you can do to make yourself more comfortable in the chair. 

Understanding Dental Anxiety 

A good number of people feel some sort of anxiety revolving around their trips to the dentist. Research has found that 36% of the population suffer from dental anxiety and fear, with 12% of those suffering from extreme dental fear. The research further showed that when patients have a better understanding of dental fear, anxiety, and phobia, they’re less likely to avoid necessary treatments. What are ways patients can lessen their anxiety? If you are someone who feels nervous before going in to see your dentist, consider implementing these 4 tips to put yourself at ease. 

4 Ways to Prepare and Feel Less Anxiety

Though there’s no cure-all for feeling less nervous about visiting the dentist or having a procedure done, these 4 tips could help put your mind at ease before you arrive. 

1.Practice good oral care at home

This might sound like a no brainer. However, you’ll be surprised how quickly our oral healthcare routines can suffer when life gets busy. This can even happen when we feel anxious. For people that already suffer from anxiety and other mental health issues on a day-to-day basis, it’s important to develop a good oral healthcare routine. If you have a good routine, you’re more likely to stick to it even when you’re feeling down. It is recommended to brush your teeth twice a day (for at least two minutes), along with flossing and using a fluoride mouthwash each day as well. The healthier your mouth at home, the less likely you’ll run into problems in the dentist office. 

2.Arrive early

We suggest arriving early to your dentist appointment, especially if you’re feeling anxious. This is so you can talk to our team about any fear you have in the upcoming appointment. In most dental offices, the team is going to be more than happy to listen to all of your concerns and help you better understand what your appointment is going to look like. If you arrive late, you risk not having as much time with your dentist too. In this instance, it can cause more anxiety if you feel like everything is rushed. 

3.Bring questions or concerns

If you think of any questions or concerns at home before your appointment, write them down. Writing things down in advance to bring with you will help ensure you don’t forget anything you want to discuss during your appointment. Sometimes, once you get to the office, you’ll forget some of the primary concerns you had at home. If you write them down, you can rest assured knowing you’ll get all your questions answered during your visit, which can help alleviate some anxiety. 

4.Be open with your dentist 

You don’t need to hide things from your dentist. Your dentist isn’t there to judge you or to make you feel scared — they want to help you! Be open with your dentist and honest about your current oral hygiene routine. Also talk about what your diet looks like, what medications you take, and more. All of this will help your dentist best help you. No one wins when you leave information out, so being open with your dentist will ensure that you are getting the best possible care for your condition. 

Fight Severe Dental Anxiety with Sedation

Sometimes, these little things we can do to prepare for an appointment aren’t enough to make us feel more calm about going to the dentist. Fear of pain is the main reason people avoid the dentist, according to WebMD, which is one of the reasons we offer sedation dentistry. If you’re one of the people that suffers from severe dental anxiety, ask about your sedation options. 

We want you to feel calm in our chair, and sometimes that might mean you need a little extra help. We have options that will help ensure you feel safe and comfortable in our chairs. Common sedation options include: 

  • Oral sedation – this will be a prescribed sedative that you will take about 30 minutes before your appointment time. These can help you feel calm during your visit or procedure. Oftentimes, these will allow you to stay awake through your procedure. However, you are likely to not remember the dental work being done. 
  • Laughing gas – named after its ability to give you a happy feeling, this is a good option if you have dental anxiety. When you breathe in this gas, you will receive light sedation and feel relaxed during your visit. 
  • IV sedation – this is not commonly used for minor procedures, but rather for work that involves use of heavier equipment. If you don’t want to be awake at all during your appointment for a procedure, you can request the use of IV sedation. 

Call Dr. Ania 

If you’re overdue for a trip to the dentist because of dental anxiety, contact our office today. We can answer your questions, listen to your concerns, and get you in for an appointment so you can quit living in pain. Oral health problems can cause great damage if left untreated, call now for an appointment: (303)-872-9940. 

 

Posted: June 16, 2020 By: Comment: 0
anxiety-and-oral-health

Anxiety and Oral Health

It’s been studied and proven that, sometimes, emotional stress and anxiety can be a cause of oral health problems. Is it the anxiety that causes your mouth to have problems? Or could it be the way your anxiety is treated? Here’s what you need to know about the role anxiety could be playing on your oral health. 

Understanding Stress and Anxiety

We’ve all felt stress whether it be for work or at home, but for some people who experience high levels of stress for longer periods of time, anxiety can be negatively affecting their health. Healthline defines stress as any demand placed on your brain or physical body. People can feel stressed when they’re facing strict deadlines at work, life changes at home, and more. On the other hand, anxiety is a feeling of fear, worry, or unease. It can be a reaction to stress, they say, or it can happen in those who are unable to identify significant stressors in their lives.

Symptoms of stress and anxiety can include physical and psychological symptoms, including: 

  • Stomach problems
  • Tight muscles
  • Headaches
  • Trouble breathing
  • Excessive sweating
  • Shaking
  • Dizziness
  • Frequent urination
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Fatigue 
  • Panic
  • Nervousness
  • Anger
  • And more 

Mental Health and Oral Health 

Though it may not seem like the two are linked together, they are. Dental News reports that issues such as stress and anxiety can impact your mouth, citing that almost two-thirds of people diagnosed with depression reported experiencing a toothache, while half of all clinically depressed patients surveyed rated the condition of their teeth as fair or poor. Additionally, they mention, there is also a fairly strong link between gum disease and poor mental health. 

With that being said, individuals who might suffer from stress, anxiety, or depression need to be extra-diligent in taking care of their mouths. 

So, why do these mental health conditions cause poor dental hygiene? Well, the most common cause is due to the mental drain they can place on people. For instance, those with anxiety and stress might be so worried and concerned about something else, that it is difficult for them to follow their normal dental hygiene routines. Their diets can also come into play here too, along with medications they might be taking to manage their anxieties. 

Dental Anxiety

Another way anxiety affects dental care is in those who fear the dentist. Researchers with the Journal of Dental Hygiene have found that anywhere between 50-80% of adults in the United States have dental anxiety to some extent. For some patients, the fear could be minimal, however it can be debilitating in some. It’s also been shown that 20% of dentally anxious patients don’t see a dentist on a regular basis, with up to 15% of anxious patients forgoing dental altogether. 

Dental Anxiety Options

While many dental visits are non-invasive, like cleanings and comprehensive exams, they typically don’t require sedation. However, if you are someone who avoids the dentist altogether because of your dental anxiety, talk with our team about your options for dental anesthesia. We want you to feel safe and at ease while here in our office, and the most important thing is that you receive dental care to keep your mouth healthy. If you avoid the dentist, you could be missing minor problems early on that can cause you great pain in the future. You have the ability to choose the anesthesia you want, no matter the type of procedure. Our options include:

  • Oral sedation – a prescribed sedative you will take about 30 minutes before your appointment time. These can help you feel calm during your visit or procedure. Oftentimes, these will allow you to stay awake through your procedure, though you are likely to not remember the dental work being done. 
  • Laughing gas – named after its ability to give you a happy feeling, this is a good option for those with dental anxiety. When you breathe in this gas, you will receive light sedation and feel relaxed during your visit. 
  • IV sedation – this is not commonly used for minor procedures, but rather for work that involves use of heavier equipment. If you don’t want to be awake at all during your appointment for a procedure, you can request the use of IV sedation. 

We never want you to feel afraid while in our chairs. Working with you to make sure you feel relaxed, we will make sure to take care of your dental problems and get your mouth healthy again in a quick and efficient manner.

How to Best Care for Your Teeth with Anxiety

Our best recommendation to keep your teeth healthy if you’re suffering from stress of anxiety is to try your best to stick to a dental hygiene routine. Try to brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes, floss once each day, and use a mouthwash to make sure you’re fighting off plaque and bacteria to the best of your ability. 

Call Dr. Ania

To further learn about how to care for your mouth when you’re feeling anxious, or how to visit the dentist even if you have a dental phobia, call Dr. Ania today: (303)-872-9940! We want you to be healthy and feel safe, and will provide you with the tools you need to keep that smile healthy even when you’re stressed. 

Posted: June 11, 2020 By: Comment: 0
Is-Your-Toothbrush-Making-You-Sick

Is Your Toothbrush Making You Sick?

While our immune systems are often able to fight off any common germs found on our toothbrush, sometimes they can make you sick. Toothbrushes can contain many different microorganisms, some of which have the potential to make you ill. Are you replacing your toothbrush as often as you should be? Here’s how to prevent your toothbrush from making you sick.

Bacteria and Your Toothbrush

Unfortunately, your toothbrush could be a hub for bacteria to gather and stay. That sounds gross, right? It gets worse too. Most of us brush our teeth in the bathroom of our homes, which means germs like fecal matter can be found on your toothbrush too. The American Dental Association confirms that toothbrushes have been shown to harbor bacteria. Part of the bacteria found? Fecal coliform, a bacteria that is released into the air after a toilet is flushed or when the owner’s hands are contaminated before touching the brush. The good news is that your mouth is naturally full of bacteria, so it’s able to fight off many germs that could potentially cause you to fall ill. 

Natural Bacteria and Your Mouth

You can’t see or taste the bacteria that is naturally found in your mouth, but your mouth is full of these microorganisms. Colgate reports that over 700 different strains of bacteria have been found in the human mouth, but most people usually only have 34 to 72 different types in their own mouths. Some of this bacteria is actually beneficial to our teeth and gums too, as it can serve as a protective barrier. In addition, bacteria like probiotics is also beneficial to the digestion of food. 

However, there can be harmful bacteria in your mouth. The two most common bacteria that can wreak havoc in your mouth according to Colgate are:

  • Streptococcus mutans, a bacteria that lives in your mouth and feeds on the sugars you eat. Due to its rapid appetite, it can produce enamel-eroding acids. This bacteria is the main cause of tooth decay in humans. 
  • Porphyromonas gingivalis, which isn’t found in a healthy mouth, however, when it is present it’s been linked to periodontitis. This is also known as gum disease. 

Replacing Your Toothbrush

A good rule of thumb is to replace your toothbrush head every three months. In the meantime, it’s important that you thoroughly rinse your toothbrush after each use, and store upright so it can dry properly. 

You might have to replace it sooner, though, especially if you’ve been sick. If you’ve had an illness like the cold or flu, strep throat, or other mouth-based infections, you’re at risk to become reinfected if you don’t change out your toothbrush. If you can’t seem to get well after being sick, it could be because you keep introducing the bacteria into your mouth straight off your toothbrush head. More good rules to follow to keep your toothbrush as clean as possible include:

  • Never sharing your toothbrush 
  • Don’t store your toothbrush head-down 
  • Refrain from disinfecting your toothbrush, no matter how tempting it may be

It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your toothbrush too. If you notice it begins to look frayed or worn, go ahead and replace it. When the bristles fray, they don’t work to clean your teeth as well as they should. In this case, further plaque can develop and lead to a handful of problems like cavities and gum disease. 

Choosing the Best Toothbrush For You

There is not a one-size-fits-all toothbrush for people. How do you know what is right for you? Your dentist can help you decide which kind you should choose, but here are some common options:

  • Soft-bristled: for those who have sensitive teeth or gums, you might need to use a soft-bristled brush. This still cleans your teeth just as well as a hard toothbrush head would, but it cleans in a more gentle way for those who need it. 
  • Medium-bristled: this kind of toothbrush is best for people who want something a little more firm to brush their teeth with. These can remove slightly more plaque than soft-bristled brushes, however they can be more damaging to your gums. 

Make an Appointment with Dr. Ania

If you’re having any type of dental issue, whether it’s sensitive teeth, bleeding gums, or a different problem, call Dr. Ania and our team today. Our number one priority is your health and wellness, and we will work with you to get to the source of your problem. Call for an appointment now: (303)-872-9940. 

Posted: June 4, 2020 By: Comment: 0
what-your-bad-breath-is-trying-to-tell-you

What Your Bad Breath is Trying to Tell You

It’s common to have bad breath after eating onions or too much garlic, however persistent bad breath can be signaling that there’s a deeper issue taking place. If you have chronic odor in your mouth, it could be caused by gum disease or another dental problem. Here’s what you need to know — and how to try treating it at home. 

Bad Breath Causes

Formally known as halitosis, bad breath can happen for a number of reasons. Sometimes, it’s caused because of something we’ve eaten or after we’ve been sleeping, however, sometimes there’s a deeper problem. Here are some common causes of foul breath according to Medical News Today:

  • Tobacco: using tobacco products can create an unwanted odor in the mouth. Additionally, they also increase your chances of gum disease, which also contributes to bad breath. 
  • Food: like we mentioned, sometimes the culprit of bad breath is a simple as garlic and onions. However, sometimes foods that have been lodged between the teeth can cause odor. Foods can cause odors in the mouth even after they are digested too. 
  • Dry mouth: your saliva naturally cleans your mouth, however if you suffer from dry mouth, you’re more prone to suffering from foul smelling odors. 
  • Dental hygiene: it’s important to brush and floss daily to fight bad breath. Removing the small particles of food that can build up after a meal will help save you from bad odors by removing plaque. 
  • Your diet: the way you eat also affects your breath. If you’re fasting for trying a keto diet, you could have breath that doesn’t smell great.
  • Medication: certain medicines can reduce saliva which increases odors. Other drugs like nitrates, chemotherapy, and some tranquilizers can cause it too.
  • Mouth, nose, and throat conditions: some conditions that affect your mouth, nose, throat, or sinuses are often contributing factors to frequent odor.
  • Diseases: Cancers, liver failure, and other metabolic diseases can cause bad breath because of the chemicals they produce throughout the body. This problem is also common in those who suffer from gastrointestinal problems. 

How to Treat Bad Breath at Home 

Thankfully, there are at home remedies you can try to get rid of your foul smelling breath. Healthline suggests trying these at-home tips to get rid of your odor: 

  • Focus on your dental hygiene. Poor dental hygiene is the easiest way to suffer from odors. Make sure you brush twice a day, floss daily, and keep up good hygiene habits to prevent it. 
  • Try parsley. Parsley is a popular remedy for foul smelling breath because of its fresh scent and high chlorophyll content, which has a deodorizing effect. 
  • Drink pineapple juice. This is believed to be the most effective treatment for bad breath for many people! While it hasn’t been proven by science, it couldn’t hurt to give it a try. 
  • Increase your water intake. If you suffer from dry mouth, water will help keep you hydrated which will help you increase your saliva production. 
  • Eat yogurt. The healthy bacteria found in yogurt can help fight bad breath that is caused by something happening elsewhere in your body, like your gut. 
  • Drink milk. Milk is a well-known odor remedy – especially when you drink it after eating garlic. 
  • Eat oranges. These citrus fruits help promote dental hygiene due to their high vitamin c content, which can help increase saliva production.
  • Supplement zinc. Zinc salts, often found in mouthwashes and gum, can help fight odor. 
  • Drink green tea. This home remedy can disinfect and deodorize your mouth. 
  • Eat an apple. Apples can fight hard against the odor causing properties of garlic breath. 
  • Using a baking soda mouthwash. Sodium bicarbonate can effectively kill bacteria in the mouth, which gets rid of odor. 

These home remedies often help a lot of patients who suffer from foul breath, however they might not work for everyone. Be sure to talk to your doctor to find out what technique is best for you

Make an Appointment with Dr. Ania

Bad breath can be embarrassing and affect your daily life, but it doesn’t have to! If you are suffering from bad breath and these home remedies aren’t for you, it’s time to call Dr. Ania. There could be a deeper problem that is persistently causing the odor. By seeing your dentist regularly, you can get to the bottom of your problem much quicker than trying to figure it out on your own. If you need an appointment, fill out this form or call Dr. Ania’s office at 303-872-9940. Don’t suffer from chronic bad breath any longer.

Posted: May 13, 2020 By: Comment: 0
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National Blood Pressure Month: How it’s Linked to Dental Care

May is National Blood Pressure Month. Did you know that your blood pressure (BP) and dental work go hand-in-hand? Dentists take your blood pressure to know the appropriate amounts of medicine and anesthetics to prescribe, but your blood pressure is also linked to your dental care in more ways. Here’s how. 

Explaining Blood Pressure

Your arteries carry blood away from the heart through the arteries. While it’s going through the arteries, it presses against them. BP is the measurement of just how hard, or not, the blood is pushing against them. 

Different Blood Pressure Readings

When your BP is taken, you will see two numbers on your reading:

  1. Systolic, the top number: this tells you how much pressure your blood is placing on the artery walls as the heart beats. 
  2. Diastolic, the bottom number: this tells you how much pressure your blood places against the artery walls while the heart is resting in between beats. 

Your BP will fall in one of five ranges. The American Heart Association explains those ranges:

Normal

A normal BP means the systolic is less than 120 and the diastolic is less than 80. Getting a reading in this range is the best you can get. This means that you are more than likely heart healthy, and live a healthy lifestyle (though that isn’t always the case). 

Elevated

An elevated BP reading is when your systolic number is from 121-129 and the diastolic is less than 80. This reading signals that your blood pressure is higher than what is normal, and you should take precautions to bring it back down to prevent high blood pressure. 

Hypertension Stage 1

If your BP falls within this stage, it means you consistently fall between the numbers 130-139 systolic and 80-89 diastolic. It’s within this stage that doctors will begin talking to you about lifestyle changes, BP medication, and more to help reduce your risk of cardiovascular problems, like a heart attack or stroke. 

Hypertension Stage 2

A BP reading in this category means you need medical attention. This is when your reading is higher than 180 systolic and 120 diastolic. If you take your reading at home and notice this number, the American Heart Association recommends waiting five minutes, and then testing again. If it’s still this high, seek immediate medical attention. Pay attention for signs like chest pain, trouble breathing, back pain, numbness, weakness, changes in vision, or difficulty speaking. 

Blood Pressure and Dental Care

If you’ve ever had dental work done, then you most likely had your BP taken. This is important for a number of different reasons. 

First off, it’s not abnormal for patients to become stressed before dental work, which can elevate BP. If you already have BP issues, this could lead to serious health problems happening during your dental work like a stroke. If we check your numbers and notice it is alarmingly high, we will consider postponing your dental work until it is under control.

Next, your BP range is important for sedation. Oftentimes in dentistry, we use local anesthesia to help our patients feel comfortable during procedures. However, it’s important to note that many anesthetics contain epinephrine, which constricts blood vessels. In turn, this can cause a higher reading. We use your BP reading as a guide to base the appropriate dosage you can have to keep you safe throughout the entirety of your procedure. 

All this to say, your blood pressure can help warn us of any underlying issues with your health that could cause problems while you’re having dental work done. Another bonus is, if you’ve been feeling fine and haven’t been to your primary care physician recently, this is a good time to check up on your blood pressure. Most people see their dentists about twice a year, which means twice a year you are staying up to date on where your BP range currently is. 

More BP and Dental Facts

In a study published by Science Daily, poor oral health has been linked to interfering with blood pressure control in those who have hypertension. They say that those with gum disease appear to have worse blood pressure readings as well. Your oral health plays a vital role in your overall health, so be sure to take care of it!

Make an Appointment with Dr. Ania

If you struggle with your blood pressure and have dental issues, Dr. Ania can help you. Make an appointment today to talk with her and her team about your concerns. Don’t forgo dental work because you’re scared or worried, there are steps we can take to help make you as comfortable as possible during your appointment. 

 

Posted: May 6, 2020 By: Comment: 0
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Soda vs. Teeth: Who Wins?

DoFor your teeth specifically, the sugar and acid from soft drinks can cause serious harm if you’re not taking the proper precautions. 

According to a study, over half of American adults drink soda each day. That’s a lot of people enjoying these sweet beverages! Do you know the kind of effects soda can have on your teeth? They’re not always good. Keep reading to learn what your daily beverage could be doing your teeth! 

The Negative Effects of Soda 

One of the main problems with soda is the excessive amount of sugar. Not only is this bad for your teeth, but it’s also bad for your overall health. Sugar, in large amounts, is not only high in calories, but it doesn’t leave you feeling satiated. Due to this, most people who drink soda are more likely to put on weight and have health problems associated with that. Healthline details other common problems associated with soda are:

  • Excessive sugar turns into fat in the liver
  • Sugar drastically increases belly fat 
  • It can cause insulin resistance
  • It’s one of the leading causes of type 2 diabetes 
  • Has no other health value, no vitamins, just sugar 
  • Leptin resistance, which can cause obesity 
  • It’s addictive 
  • Can increase risk for heart disease 
  • Increased risk of cancer 
  • Dental health problems

Soft Drinks and Teeth

Our teeth and oral health do not respond well to sugar. However, it’s not the sugar that directly causes the problem. When we eat or drink sugary things, the bacteria found in the mouth clings to the sugar. This bacteria thrives on sugar, which results in it working to destroy your tooth enamel.

Most soda contains different kinds of acids – phosphoric and citric. No matter which you consume, these aren’t good for your teeth. The acid breaks down the teeth’s enamel, which puts you at a higher risk for cavities, tooth decay, and more. 

Cavities are the result of a bacterial infection that happens due to the acids. Acid causes holes to develop within the teeth. Once cavities progress, you’ll begin experiencing painful symptoms, like:

  • Toothaches
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold foods
  • Seeing holes on the teeth
  • Staining on tooth
  • Trouble chewing 

If you don’t seek treatment for cavities, they can cause serious problems. If left untreated, cavities can cause infections to develop. This could result in losing the tooth completely. 

Not only are cavities a concern of drinking soda, but dark beverages like soda also put you at risk for teeth staining and more. 

Enjoying Soda and Protecting Your Teeth

If you’re not ready to give up your daily dose of soda, there are ways you can work to keep your mouth clean, but you have to be vigilant about the process. To best protect your oral health, limit your soda intake to one per day, use a straw, rinse with water after drinking, and most importantly – wait before you brush.

This sounds counterintuitive, but if you brush right after consuming a soft drink, your mouth is already sensitive due to the acid from the drink. A good rule of thumb is to let your mouth rest for at least half an hour before brushing the bacteria away. 

Teeth are made to last a lifetime, and while you should be able to enjoy the things you love, doing so in moderation will help protect your health. 

Cavity Prevention

The best way to prevent cavities is to develop a proper dental hygiene routine. We recommend doing the following at home:

  • Using a fluoride toothpaste 
  • Brushing your teeth at least twice a day 
  • Flossing each day 
  • Using mouthwash 
  • Cleaning your tongue

However, one of the best ways to prevent cavities from progressing is to keep your regular dental checkups. Seeing your dentist every six months can help stop problems before they begin. Unfortunately, we can’t see every part of our mouth. Due to this, we can miss those beginning warning signs of tooth decay and other problems. Your dentist is trained to notice these and is able to see all parts of your mouth. If you see your dentist regularly, you’re less likely to experience severe dental health issues. 

Make an Appointment with Dr. Ania

Dr. Ania’s main priority is your overall health. If you want to get your dental health back on track, make an appointment with Dr. Ania today. She will work with you to treat any issues you have, and give you advice on what your specific dental hygiene routine should look like. Call today to learn more: (303)-872-9940. 

Posted: April 30, 2020 By: Comment: 0

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