General

Tooth Sensitivity: Causes and Treatment

Did you know that 40 million adult Americans experience tooth sensitivity? While many are clueless about its causes, some know about the underlying problem. In any case, your dentist can render the proper diagnosis and treatment.

First let us look at the tooth anatomy to understand the origin of sensitivity. While hard enamel is the first protective layer of teeth, the next layer is the yellowish dentin, softer and containing many microscopic tubules filled with tiny nerve endings.The dentin extends down to the root of your tooth that is protected by a layer of cementum. Dentin hypersensitivity or nerve irritation occurs whenever dentin loses its protective covering of enamel or cementum, exposing the nerve endings to hot, cold, acidic or sticky foods.

Dental issues that cause sensitive teeth are many. Hard or aggressive tooth brushing can wear down the enamel. Highly acidic foods and beverages can also cause enamel erosion. Tooth decay, worn leaky fillings and chapped or cracked teeth can expose the dentin. Gum recession, a symptom of periodontitis, can also expose root surface. Teeth grinding is another culprit. Another cause of sensitivity is dental treatment, however, it is temporary and mostly associated with crown procedures, fillings and tooth bleaching.

How do you find relief for your pain and discomfort? Seeing your dentist is the first step. Discuss your symptoms, when they started and how tolerable is your discomfort. Be truthful when your dentist inquires about your oral hygiene practises, the foods you eat and the beverages you drink, other eating habits. Oral examination can reveal if you grind your teeth, and if wearing dentures make you uncomfortable. Your dentist can also confirm the presence of cavities or tooth decay.

Your dentist can treat the underlying cause of your sensitivity. Treatment may be as simple as fixing a cavity or replacing a worn filling. An in-office fluoride gel to strengthen the tooth enamel and reduce painful sensations can be applied. Over-the-counter desensitizing toothpastes can be prescribed to block off the nerve sensation. In cases of gum loss exposing the root, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist for a gum graft.

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Taking Care of Tooth Sensitivity in Bellingham

If you’ve been suffering from painful or disturbing sensitivity that keeps you from eating the foods you like, then see your Bellingham dentist as soon as you can.

Understanding the Effects of e-Cigarettes on Teeth

Vaping is still a trendy thing to do.

This is in spite of scary stories like possibly contracting a rare type of pneumonia or the gadget exploding inside the mouth. However, it’s been said that e-cigarettes are just as unhealthy as regular cigarettes. Just how unhealthy is vaping to health – oral health in particular? Is it’s effect on teeth as bad? Some dental experts weigh the perils.

How is Vaping bad for your teeth?

To understand how is to know how e-cigarettes work. Essentially vaping requires heating up a liquid, typically nicotine, to turn it into vapor that can be inhaled. The ADA warns that it’s providing heat in the mouth, changing the bacterial presence there and drying out the mouth.

Experts explain that the warmer mouth temperature caused by vaping creates an environment favorable to harmful bacteria. Vaping can lead to dental decay or cavities, bone loss, and inflamed gum tissue. Vaping on the mouth causes inflammation – and can make the mouth even more susceptible to infection.

Vaping is being actively researched and studied, being a new phenomenon. Many consider vaping and cigarette smoking relatively the same, as far as the effects on the teeth and gum tissues. Both methods provide the heat element which dries out the mouth. As the mouth dries the rate of tooth decay increases.

Another effect of vaping is the discoloration of the teeth. Teeth will darken with continuous vaping. Though e-cigarettes don’t contain tar, they do still contain nicotine – which adds to tooth darkening. Nicotine will stain teeth, roughening the enamel surface so that plaque and other colored particles will stick more readily and build up.

Hence, to say that e-cigarettes and vaping is a better alternative to cigarette smoking is just not true.

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Ask our Dentists at Tetrick Family Dentistry

Learn more about the effects of smoking and vaping on your oral health. We help you know about healthy habits to keep your teeth whiter and your breath fresher. Come see us in Bellingham.

Caring for Not Just You But for Two

Do brush and floss everyday.

Pregnant women need the protection of brushing with fluoride as well as flossing everyday. Pregnancy brings about hormonal changes affecting the way gums react to plaque. Many women can develop pregnancy gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease that most commonly develops between the second and eighth month. Gums become red, sore and bleed, causing irritation and discomfort. Untreated, this form of gingivitis can become more serious and may lead to premature labor and low birth weight.

Don’t miss a dental appointment.

Inform your dentist of your pregnancy, and any changes to medication. Dental checkups are safe, though consider it well if you have a restricting medical condition or your pregnancy is high-risk. Due to the possibility of gagging and feelings of nausea, first trimester treatments may be difficult, so it is better to defer them to the second. During the third trimester, sitting in a reclining dental chair may be uncomfortable. Try to schedule your visit early on to reduce the risk of a dental emergency while pregnant.

Do eat a nutritious diet.

Be conscious of what you eat and avoid frequent snacking. Have a well-balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy and lean proteins. Limit sweet cravings because that increases the risk of tooth decay. Know that your baby’s teeth development is between the third and sixth month, so it is essential that they receive the vitamins, minerals and nutrients necessary to help their future teeth form correctly.

Do protect your teeth from morning sickness.

Many women experience this unpleasant side effect of pregnancy. Teeth can suffer enamel erosion due to acid exposure. Prevent erosion by rinsing with a teaspoon of baking soda dissolved in one cup of water following vomiting. Wait one hour for enamel to harden then follow with brushing. Use milder, more tolerable toothpaste flavors if you are too sensitive to the taste and smell.

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Dental Care in Bellingham

We cater to expectant moms here at Tetrick Family Dentistry in Bellingham. If you are expecting, let our professional team assess your oral health care needs during your pregnancy.

Daily Oral Care Routine Simplified

Good oral hygiene is composed of a set of habits necessary to keep teeth and gums healthy.

They are simple yet requiring a degree of discipline to achieve optimum oral health. Here are the top oral hygiene practices most dentists agree on as the most important ones.

Brush regularly but not too vigorously.

Correct technique makes brushing teeth effective. Brush using small circular motions, taking care to brush each tooth surface, avoiding the sawing back-and-forth motions. Hard brushing or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can damage enamel and hurt the gums. Remember that proper brushing takes between 2 and 3 minutes.

Use toothpaste and mouthwash with fluoride.

It helps prevent cavities and tooth decay because it strengthens enamel ny mineralization. Reviews say that brushing and flossing do not prevent a person from getting cavities if they do not use fluoride. Communities also incorporate fluoride in their drinking water as recommended by the WHO, the CDC and the ADA. On the other hand, mouthwashes are antibacterial. They help control plaque and gingivitis, and help prevent bad breath.

Flossing daily is recommended.

It can remove plaque and bacteria from between the teeth, where a toothbrush cannot reach. It can also help prevent bad breath by removing food debris trapped between the teeth.

Visit the dentist regularly.

Experts recommend a dental visit every six months, ideal to have professional cleaning done. However, it will depend on a person’s overall health, age and oral hygiene status on how frequent should a dental visit be. The dentist will be able to recommend.

Stop smoking.

It harms the body’s immune system, slowing down healing, including problems in the mouth. One is highly prone to gum disease, tooth discoloration, and bad breath.

Control sugar and starch intake.

Studies highlight the role of sugar in adverse dental health outcomes such as cavities and tooth decay. The WHO recommends limiting sugar intake to 10 percent of daily calories. Starchy food like crackers, bread, chips, and pasta, can cause tooth decay. The ADA says they break down into simple sugars that bacteria feed on that lead to acid that causes tooth decay. Fiber-rich fruits and vegetables are recommended. Drink water or unsweetened tea rather than sugary drinks.

Have questions for our Bellingham dentist?

It’s important to come get your check-up every six months with cleaning. Dentist will check if you have any issues with your gums, decay, etc. If you have any questions for our dentist, feel free to share your concerns or oral health questions.

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Understanding Painful Gums

Have you ever experienced gum pain? Do you know what is causing the pain in your gums?

Gum pain can be a sign of irritation, infection, or injury to the gums and teeth. It may be a transient symptom but It should be diagnosed to prevent further health complications.

What can cause painful gums?

Firstly, it may be due to brushing or flossing too hard or too frequently that can sometimes cause the gums to bleed and be painful. Or pain might be due to gum disease. Gingivitis causes gums to become tender, to swell or even bleed. If left unattended, it can develop into periodontitis, a more serious form where you can lose teeth. Then your gums may have cuts or injuries caused by sharp or hard foods or objects you put in your mouth. You may also accidentally bite down on the gums, which can sometimes cause pain and bleeding.

A very common cause of gum pain is tooth abscess. It’s the presence of pus or a pus-filled sac in the root of a tooth that can spread to neighboring tooth structures. It can cause gum swelling and pain. One must see a dentist right away as the abscess can also infect other body parts. Another infection that can cause gum pain is sinusitis. A bacterial or viral infection in the sinuses can cause swelling of the sinus cavity.

Women who are pregnant or undergoing menopause are experiencing hormonal fluctuations that cause tender, swelling gums. The gums can be painful and can bleed sometimes. Another manifestation of painful gums are the presence of small, painful ulcers called canker sores. They are multicausal, such as emotional stress, mouth injuries, an impaired immune system, or other underlying health conditions.

What is the treatment for painful gums?

The treatment for gum pain depends on what’s causing it. If it’s gingivitis, a professional cleaning is recommended and some careful homecare. If it’s its more serious form (periodontitis), surgery to repair bone or gum loss may be necessary. Antibiotics can be prescribed in cases of sinusitis, while its root canal therapy in tooth abscesses.

If it’s food that irritates or scratches the gums, then avoid foods that are acidic (like citrus fruits and tomatoes), spicy foods (containing chilis or hot peppers), sharp or scratchy foods (chips, nuts, or pretzels). For canker sores, take vitamin and mineral supplements, like iron and vitamin B-12.

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Looking After Gum Health in Bellingham

If you experience painful gums, if they persist and no home remedy seem to alleviate the symptoms, see us at Dr. Tetrick’s for a consultation, only here in Bellingham.

Cavities and Causes

A cavity is a damage of the structure of the tooth caused by acids that are created when plaque bacteria break down sugar in your mouth. A hole is created on the tooth surface which means there is a loss of minerals from the enamel layer. Left untreated, the plaque acids can also eat away at the next layer of the tooth which is the dentin. Nerves are now exposed and you can feel pain when eating or drinking.

Cavities and the decay they cause can be brought about by many factors. The most significant ones are sugary, sticky foods and beverages. The more sugar consumed, the more acid is produced, leading to decay. Sugar combines with plaque to weaken the enamel leaving you vulnerable to tooth decay.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Other factors to consider is poor oral hygiene which contributes to buildup of plaque. Plaque is caused when bacteria, acid, food particles, and saliva all combine in your mouth. Plaque contains acid that attacks the enamel of your teeth and cause cavities. To be neglectful of oral hygiene may mean one doesn’t brush and floss regularly and properly, and because one may not also keep regular dental visits and have professional cleaning done from time to time, oral hygiene also suffers.

Another cause of cavities is dry mouth. It’s a condition when you have very little saliva in your mouth. When the mouth is not sufficiently hydrated, it becomes an environment where bacteria thrives more and plaque builds up more quickly.

Medical problems can also contribute to cavity-formation. Conditions like reflux disease and bulimia increase the risk of cavities as teeth are repeatedly exposed to acid from frequent reflux or vomiting. Diabetes is a common chronic condition that increases the likelihood of gum infections that in turn make teeth susceptible to tooth decay. In addition, some types of cancer treatment that expose the head and neck to radiation can promote a tooth cavity by changing the makeup of the saliva to promote increased bacterial growth.

Cavity Symptoms

You can tell you may have a cavity if you notice some particular symptoms. As tooth decay progresses, cavity symptoms start to appear. The earlier symptoms are identified, the quicker and easier the cavity treatment will be. Do note the following symptoms for easy and prompt identification of a cavity.

Firstly, you feel pain; you may feel pressure, and certain sensitivity with pain and discomfort when biting down; another are pits – noticeable holes or in the affected tooth, yet sometimes only a dental x-ray can reveal it. Then, there’s pus, a sign of infection.

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Dental Checkup in Bellingham

If you think you might have a cavity, make an appointment at Tetrick Family Dentistry so our team can assist with treatment. Contact our office in Bellingham if you have any questions.

Dental Fillings and Associated Pain

If you have pain in your teeth or in your gums, chances are you may have cavity symptoms. Pain is usually associated with the presence of a cavity, though not always so. The degree of pain may depend on the extent of your tooth decay, and the treatment required would also depend on how far gone is the decay. When you visit your dentist, a dental filling can be recommended as a treatment option.

Dental fillings can relieve cavity pain and they are commonly used. Firstly, your dentist will numb the area where there’s a cavity, clean out the decayed material, and apply the dental filling material sealing that affected area where the cavity had been. After you are done with the procedure, you thought your troubles are over. It can happen and it is not unusual that you experience pain after the fillings. Why is that so? There are some reasons why it happens.

Tooth Sensitivity after Fillings

One is tooth sensitivity. A tooth that has just had a filling will be more sensitive to hot foods and cold foods, air temperature, and the biting pressure. It should resolve within a few weeks. If not, contact your dentist. Another reason is cracked or loose tooth fillings. If the filling is not fitting properly to the tooth, or if it develops cracks. If you suspect that, contact your dentist. Another is an allergic reaction to tooth fillings. Some people have allergic reactions to the material used for their fillings, such as silver. Be sure you discuss known allergies with your dentist.

So what can you do? At least avoid hot and cold foods after you’ve had a tooth filling. Also, use a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth; it can minimize sensitivity and tooth pain after filling.

You can reduce your risk of tooth pain after filling a cavity by avoiding common sensitive teeth triggers, including very hot or cold foods. In addition, toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth can help minimize the possible sensitivity and tooth pain after filling a cavity.

You might also experience soreness after a cavity filling, in fact, sore teeth and gums are common after many dental procedures. Whether you suffer from short-term sore teeth after receiving a filling or long-term sensitive teeth, it is important to follow a complete oral care routine.

• Resort to gentle brushing with a soft bristle toothbrush.
• Floss softly and gently as well using a floss that is shred-resistant.
• Use a toothpaste for sensitive teeth.

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Dental Fillings in Bellingham

Do you have a cavity that’s causing you pain, discomfort or sensitivity? Come visit us for a consultation and treatment.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction

If you need to have a wisdom tooth extracted, Tetrick Family Dentistry can make the experience quick and convenient for you. After your extraction, though, you will need to take certain measures to maximize your comfort and minimize your recovery time.

Post-care and Tips for Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Here are some tips regarding what to expect and what to do in the days following the removal of your tooth:

• Under normal circumstances, your recovery period shouldn’t last more than a few days.
• During this time, you will probably want to take painkillers or apply an ice pack to the outside of your mouth to reduce your pain and swelling.
• Avoid smoking products of any kind. Your sensitive gum tissues are easily aggravated by the smoke.
• Consume softer foods, like soup and pudding. Reintroduce yourself to solid foods gradually as your condition improves.
• As you sleep, prop your head up with pillows. Laying flat on your back can encourage bleeding.
• Avoid using a straw. This can loosen your blood clot.
• Relax. An increased heart rate can encourage bleeding.
• After the first 24 hours, try rinsing your mouth a few times a day with salt water.
• You can make an appropriate salt solution by mixing one teaspoon of salt with eight ounces of warm water.

Contact Tetrick Family Dentistry Bellingham

If you have any questions or concerns about getting your wisdom teeth extracted, please feel free to contact our Bellingham dentistry so we can explain the procedure process and answer your questions.

The Importance of Tongue-Scraping

Are you brushing and flossing every day? That’s a good start for a healthy mouth, but you should never forget that your oral bacteria is growing on more than just your teeth and gums. This is why Tetrick Family Dentistry advises that you remember to scrape your tongue as a regular part of your oral hygiene.

Bacteria on Your Tongue

Your tongue has as much potential to harbor the microbes that cause tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath as your teeth do. Fortunately, cleaning away this bacteria is a simple matter. You can clear away this bacteria by gently brushing at your tongue with your toothbrush.

Most people find the brush uncomfortable on the tongue, particularly when trying to reach the back, so you may want to get yourself a proper tongue scraper. Scrapers are available in many dental care sections, and are designed to clean your tongue with the even pressure that you can’t get with a normal brush.

A good antibacterial mouthwash can also serve to kill off bacteria on your tongue, but a tongue scraping is the only way to clear off the detritus and dead cells that are gathering on your tongue surface.

A Cleaner Tongue Means Stronger Tastes

Cleaning your tongue is an important part of your daily dental hygiene, and there are additional benefits that tongue scraping has for your dining experience.

When you neglect to scrape your tongue, your taste buds aren’t able to do their job. You’re tasting your food through a thick layer of plaque. Blocked taste buds also bring about false cravings and a reduced ability to enjoy your food. It is only by regularly cleaning your tongue that you can properly enjoy all of your favorite dishes.

Consult our Bellingham dentistry to learn more about proper tongue cleaning techniques and habits.

What You Should Know About Proper Tooth Brushing

You have been brushing teeth since you were a kid and then somebody tells you you’ve been doing it the wrong way. Don’t worry. Many people are on the same boat as you. Better pay heed and find out if you’ve been doing it improperly. Otherwise, there’s nothing to worry about. See if your brushing techniques and habits fall into any one of these blunders.

You are brushing too hard. Aggressive brushing is a mistake many people make. They think that it leaves teeth cleaner. When you brush too hard, it can erode the first layer of the teeth, called the enamel, weakening it and making it prone to brittleness in the long run. Aggressive tooth brushing is a leading contributor of sensitive teeth. It can also damage the soft gums, causing irritation, cuts and breaks.

You are using the wrong toothbrush. An important feature of a toothbrush is the bristles that remove the bacteria, and loosen plaque from your teeth and gums. Choosing a toothbrush with hard bristles can wear down your tooth structure. Soft bristles can clean teeth more effectively.

You are not brushing long enough. Many people don’t take even a minute brushing their teeth, like the routine is something you get over faster the better. Take enough time to brush your teeth properly and thoroughly. It is advisable to spend at least 2 minutes every time you brush – and you should be brushing your teeth twice daily..

You don’t floss correctly. The rightful brushing should also be accompanied by dental flossing every day for complete removal of the plaque in between teeth as well as cleaning of the tongue.

You don’t change your toothbrush regularly. It is recommended to change to a new toothbrush every 3 months or sooner when the bristles are starting to fray already. You will be unable to properly remove plaque and food particles with an overused brush. Besides, keeping it too long can harbor more grime and bacteria that you will spread over all your mouth instead.

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More Tooth Brushing Tips in Bellingham

Learn more about good tooth brushing tips and techniques at Tetrick Family Dentistry. Make an appointment this week to keep your mouth healthy!