Q. Is there a "right way" to store a toothbrush?
A. Absolutely. When you've finished brushing, rinse your brush and then shake to get the water out. Store it in an upright position in a well ventilated area -- not a medicine cabinet. If your toothbrush doesn't fit into a conventional holder, a glass may be useful.
Q. Is brushing enough? Why should we floss?
A. Brushing is excellent for removing plaque. However, a toothbrush works primarily on the surface of your teeth. Flossing finishes the process by getting between teeth and under the gum line where a toothbrush can't reach.
Q. What are anti-cavity rinses?
A. Primarily for those in their cavity prone years (children, teenagers, and seniors), an anti-cavity rinse contains fluoride which helps prevent cavities. For less irritation, look for a rinse that is alcohol-free or low in alcohol.
Q. What causes bad breath (Halitosis)?
A. The majority of bad breath problems begin in the mouth. Some of the causes stems from bacterial and food debris accumulating on the back of the tongue; sulfur compounds produced by bacteria; and bacteria containing plaque attracted to the tooth and not removed properly. Other reasons for bad breath are infections, especially in the sinuses or lungs; diabetes mellitus (acetone smell to the breath); kidney failure (can produce a fishy odor) or malfunction of the liver.
Q. What causes teeth grinding?
A. Tooth grinding is an oral habit which involves clenching and grinding of the teeth and is not uncommon. Some of the causes stem from emotional stress; personalities characterized as aggressive, controlling, precise; or malocclusion (teeth that are not aligned properly).
Q. What is orthodontics?
A. Orthodontics is the science of straightening and correcting teeth. Children as well as adults are choosing to have orthodontic treatment for several reasons -- malocclusion (bit or occlusion is off); tooth malalignment (crooked teeth); or unhappy with appearance of teeth. During the preteen and teenage years, the jaws are growing and maturing and therefore it is easier to shift teeth at this stage rather than later on in adulthood. More adults are choosing to have orthodontic treatment but since their faws are no longer growing, treatment may take a little longer.
Q. What is tooth sensitivity?
A. Tooth sensitivity can be defined as a painful reaction in one or more teeth triggered by hot, cold, sweet, or sour foods and drinks. This pain can be sharp, sudden and shoot deep into the nerve endings of your teeth. Apart from a cavity or a missing filling, the most common cause of tooth sensitivity is exposed dentin on the roots of your teeth. Normally, the dentin (the second, most sensitive layer of the tooth) is surrounded and protected by your enamel, cementum (special root covering) and gums. The cause of dentinal sensitivity is still not well understood.
Q. What is gingivitis?
A. Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gum tissue. The gums are irritated and swollen due to a plaque or calculus (tartar) buildup along the gumline. The gums may be sore, bleed easily and appear puffy, soft and swollen. No bone structure is lost around the teeth at this stage of gum disease. Blood on the toothbrush or dental floss is one of the earliest and most common signs of gingivitis.
Q. What is periodontal disease?
A. Periodontal disease is destruction of bone and the structures supporting the teeth. Unfortunately, periodontis is irreversible, but you can stop its progression through good oral hygiene and visiting your dental professional. Some of the common signs of periodontal disease includes -- 1) gums that bleed when you brush or floss your teeth; 2) gums that are red, swollen or tender; 3) gums that have pulled away from teeth; 4) infection including purulence (pus) between the teeth and gums when the gums are pressed; 5) permanent teeth that are losse or separating; 6) changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite; 7) bad breath; or 8) itchy sensation.
