What is Bruxism?

Bruxism is a condition where someone grinds, clenches,
or gnashes their teeth.

Recent research on this destructive condition suggests that 22% of the
global population suffers from either daytime or nighttime bruxism.

The post Navigating Bruxism appeared first on Smile Brilliant.

The post The Various Causes of BRUXISM appeared first on Smile Brilliant.

One of the most important aspects of personal hygiene is oral hygiene, which ensures good oral health. We all know the necessity of brushing our teeth twice daily, rinsing our mouths after every meal, and keeping our tongues clean. A few steps taken beyond these necessary actions go a long way in enhancing our oral health. One of the things that can help is oil Pulling. Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice of swishing oil in the mouth for a set time every day. The effect of oil pulling on our teeth is quite good; it kills the microorganisms in our mouth.

Oil pulling is relatively easy, but it does require a certain level of technique and consistency to reap its full benefits. It’s best done on an empty stomach in the morning to flush out the plaque and microorganisms that accumulate overnight. You can use any edible oil, such as olive, coconut, or sunflower, but it’s recommended to use high-quality and cold-pressed oils for maximum benefit of oil pulling on oral health. Many prefer coconut oil for its additional antimicrobial properties and
better taste.

How to do oil pulling?

• Measure the oil. Around 5ml or one teaspoon is enough.
• Start swishing the oil around your mouth. Initially, do it for around 5 minutes, and increase the time once you get comfortable with the practice. Anywhere between 15 and 20 minutes is ideal.
• While oil pulling for good oral health, swishing the oil thoroughly around the mouth and teeth is important. Allow the oil to pass between your teeth, ensuring it reaches all areas in the mouth, both front and back.
• Avoid swallowing the oil since it contains all the bacteria and toxins we want to eliminate. The oil might get thinner on swishing when it mixes with saliva, so spit it out.
• Brush and rinse post oil pulling.
• Do it regularly and consistently for maximum benefits.
• Also, remember that it is not a replacement for your regular oral care. Do not stop your routine practices for this. It’s an add-on!

Benefits of oil pulling on oral health

The effect of oil pulling on oral health is quite positive and productive. Regularly practicing oil pulling results in improved oral health and hygiene. Some of the benefits are:

• Kills Harmful Bacteria: Tiny food deposits, plaque, and saliva contain hundreds of bacteria that can cause tooth decay, bad breath, cavities, etc. Oil pulling reduces the bacteria in the mouth and saliva. Many dentists say oil pulling is a safer alternative to commercial mouthwashes. However, it must be noted that oil pulling is not selective and can remove both good and bad bacteria. The mouth hosts a diverse microbiome with beneficial bacteria that help maintain oral health by preventing the overgrowth of harmful bacteria. Therefore, while oil pulling can reduce harmful bacteria associated with plaque and bad breath, it may also reduce the number of beneficial bacteria.
• Reduces Foul Smell: Bacteria and germs accumulate on the tongue and between teeth gaps, leading to bad breath (called Halitosis). One of the effects of oil pulling on oral health is reducing foul smells and improving the quality of breath.
• Prevents Cavities: Whenever there is a layer of bacteria or food particles on our teeth, it leads to decay. The bacteria break the food particles and produce an acid that damages the tooth enamel. Oil pulling reduces bacteria and prevents cavities from forming.
• Prevent Gum Pockets:Gum pockets lead to inflammation or bleeding in the gums or, at times, loss of teeth. Natural gum pockets treatment such as oil pulling dilutes the bacteria and has healing properties to reduce inflammation. Additionally, regularly rinsing with saltwater can help to disinfect the mouth and reduce swelling. Consuming a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports gum health and can aid in healing gum pockets. Gum pockets should not be taken lightly, as they are a sign of poor oral health.
• Lower Inflammation: Another problem caused by bacteria in the mouth is Gingivitis, a condition causing redness, inflammation, and bleeding. Since coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties, oil pulling with coconut oil helps lower inflammation.
• Reduce Plaque And Gingivitis: Using sunflower oil for oil pulling reduces plaque and plaque-induced Gingivitis.
• Detoxification: Oil works like a magnet for impurities and bacteria in the mouth, preventing them from multiplying or causing further damage. Thus, oil pulling for good oral health includes natural detoxification for the oral cavity. All toxins and microorganisms are removed.
• Moisturizing Effect On Dry Mouth:Many experience dry mouth, primarily upon waking up or after meals. Oil pulling keeps the mouth hydrated and fresh; reduced bacteria means less dryness.
• Strengthen Oral Muscles: Swishing automatically leads to jaw, tongue, and gums activity. Regular oil pulling strengthens the oral muscles and can give you a great jawline and smile naturally!

Conclusion

Ayurvedic practices are time-tested and use readily available natural resources. Oil pulling has some surprising benefits that go beyond oral hygiene. It is known to improve digestion and immunity. It can definitely be given a shot to improve dental hygiene. Try it out with different oils and use one that is most comfortable and beneficial to you. Remember, consistency is the key.

Anu Isaac

View My Profile Contact Anu

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5654187/

The post Oil pulling for improved oral health appeared first on Smile Brilliant.

If you played sports in high school, there’s a good chance you wore a mouthguard to prevent concussions. What you probably didn’t know, is just how much these mouthguards protected your teeth and absorbed impact to your jaw (TMJ). As it turns out, mouthguards don’t stop in high school! Mouthguards go on to protect the teeth and jaws of many adults. Let’s look at the different types.

How do mouthguards work?

Mouthguards are not all constructed the same, but they serve the same purpose, to protect the teeth and absorb the impact of clenching and grinding from the jaws. Bruxism, or clenching and grinding, has a significant impact on the teeth and jaws and is a multifactorial habit stemming from factors like anxiety, stress, and teeth that are not properly aligned ^[1]. Mouthguards work by forming a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing them from grinding against one another. They also absorb and redistribute shock that would be transmitted through the base of the skull to the brain, preventing concussions during sports or any kind of traumatic impact ^[2]. Clenching/grinding and over-exertion of the TMJ occur outside of sports and sleeping too. Many people clench and grind their teeth when stressed, paying bills, working on a computer, and when working out and lifting weights. Depending on the time and frequency of these habits, some mouthguards may be better suited than others.

Are there different types? Is custom better?

If you buy a mouthguard at a sporting goods store, it’s likely to cost about $15-$30. If you get one at your dentist’s office it will cost about $500.00 and up. Why the difference? A couple of reasons. One is that a night guard made in your dentist’s office will be custom fit to your teeth. It will require a few trips as they will have to take impressions of your teeth and send them off to a lab. Once the mouth guard is in, the dentist will have you try it on and will adjust it if needed to ensure it fits comfortably. The goal is for it to fit snugly on the teeth and require a little force to pop it out. Mouthguards bought at the store entail a much simpler process. You buy them… and then you wear them! While it’s nice to skip the impressions and extra visits to the dentist, they are not custom-fit to your teeth and can’t be adjusted if they don’t fit properly. If mouthguards are uncomfortable, people are less likely to wear them. Another reason custom-fit guards are so expensive is the materials. Custom, lab-built mouthguards are much more durable and can withstand a lot more force, meaning they will last longer than those purchased over the counter.

Why do dentists call it a night guard?

It may seem confusing to hear the terms mouthguard and night guard used interchangeably but they are essentially the same thing, barriers to prevent teeth grinding and TMJ exertion. Dentists commonly see signs of clenching and grinding through wear facets in a patient’s teeth and the complaint of a sore jaw and headaches. While they are called night guards, patients are still encouraged to wear them whenever they’re prone to clenching and grinding their teeth like when exercising, doing paperwork, or working on a computer.

Mouthguards work wonders in alleviating TMJ pain and pressure in those who clench and grind their teeth. Whether you decide to buy one over the counter or invest in one custom-built for you, your teeth and jaw will thank you for taking the load off!

Esmy Ornelas

Esmy Ornelas is a registered Dental Hygienist, writer, educator, and consultant with 10 years of experience in dentistry. She is passionate about education, empowering hygienists to advance their careers in and out of the operatory, and about community. She has written for RDH Magazine, the RDH Graduate, and is a full-time professor of Dental Hygiene and Assisting at Rose State College in Oklahoma.

View My Profile Contact Esmy

1. Green J. I. (2017). The Role of Mouthguards in Preventing and Reducing Sports-related Trauma. Primary dental journal, 6(2), 27–34. https://doi.org/10.1308/205016817821281738
2. Shetty, S., Pitti, V., Satish Babu, C. L., Surendra Kumar, G. P., & Deepthi, B. C. (2010). Bruxism: a literature review. Journal of Indian Prosthodontic Society, 10(3), 141–148. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13191-011-0041-5

The post Why you need a sports mouthguard appeared first on Smile Brilliant.

Plaque Attack

So you have probably been told that you should brush your teeth twice a day by your dental professional. For many, this has been drilled into their subconscious. We grew up hearing that we should brush twice a day for two minutes and floss at least once a day. Many, however, don’t know why this is so important. I have had some patients relay to me that they only brush once a day, and others state they brush only maybe once a week!
When you brush and floss your teeth you are removing bacteria on your teeth that form a sticky white film called plaque.^[1] Plaque is a sticky complex biofilm matrix that is able to stick to your teeth, coat your tongue, and cause inflammation to your gums.^[7]

How Often Does Oral Bacteria Multiply?

According to research, if we don’t properly remove plaque biofilm for 24 to 72 hours it can lead to a drop in good bacteria and increase the number of harmful bacteria.^[5] We can have on average 20 billion microbes in our mouth at any given time.^[6] However, those 20 billion microbes can double their numbers every 5 hours.^[6] It only takes 24-72 hours for plaque to harden and calcify into the hard substance calculus (tartar). To keep the bad bacteria to a minimum it is important to exercise good home-care habits daily.^[7] Brushing and cleaning between your teeth help to keep the bacteria levels under control and remove the buildup of plaque.^[7]

How Does Bacteria Growth Affect Our Teeth?

Several variables can help contribute to the growth of the bacteria. Consuming a diet full of carbohydrates or sugary foods and drinks can feed the bacteria. This helps them to increase in numbers spreading throughout your mouth.^[7] Plaque can produce acids that attack your tooth’s enamel and cause tooth decay (cavities).^[1]
If that soft plaque isn’t removed in a timely fashion it begins to harden into what is called calculus (tartar). That hard calculus makes it more difficult to keep your mouth clean and free from attracting more harmful bacteria to its surfaces.^[1] Plaque and calculus buildup can irritate your gums causing gum inflammation which can then contribute to gum disease and compromise your overall health and wellness.^[1] Individuals with gum disease will need to have specialized therapeutic treatment to help control and manage the condition. This can be more intensive and costly.

How to Keep Bacteria To Keep Minimum

• Brush your teeth twice a day with toothpaste.
• Clean between your teeth with floss, a water flosser, or an interdental device to remove plaque from between your teeth.(7)
• Clean your tongue by brushing it or using a tongue scraper.(7)
  Eat a healthy diet and limit your consumption of sugary food and drinks as they feed plaque.(1)(7)
• Avoid frequent snacking.(1)
• Replace your toothbrush every three months or sooner.(1)
• Use plaque detecting tablets or rinses that show you areas in your mouth that have plaque on them
• See your dental professionals regularly for professional treatment.(7)

We all live very busy lives, however taking a few minutes out of our day can help us to avoid spending needless hours in the dental chair due to unwanted cavities and gum disease. Prevention is always cheaper than the cure. Preventing the growth of bacteria can contribute to a healthy mouth and a healthy body.

Kari Carter-Cherelus

Kari Carter-Cherelus RDH, DA is a registered Dental Hygienist, writer, consultant, coach, international keynote speaker, with 23 years of experience in dentistry. She is passionate about helping others recover from burnout, improving organization’s work culture, and helping her clients to improve their mindset. She authored the book The Ultimate Guide For Dental Hygienist Burnout, and has written for RDH Graduate, RDH Magazine, and Inside Dental Hygiene.

View My Profile Contact Kari

1. Mayo Clinic. When and how often should you brush your teeth. Salinas, Thomas. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/expert-answers/brushing-your-teeth/faq-20058193
2. Mayo Clinic.Oral health: A window to your overall health. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/dental/art-20047475
3. Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News. Study Shows How Harmful Mouth Bacteria Multiply. (2021, January 7). https://www.genengnews.com/news/microbiome-study-shows-how-harmful-mouth-bacteria-multiply/
4. Microbiome: Does disease start in the mouth, the gut or both? Prodan, Andrei. (2019, March 19) https://elifesciences.org/articles/45931
5. Bissett, Gaby. (2021, March 10) https://dentistry.co.uk/2021/03/10/hours-interrupted-oral-health-complications/
   
6. Oral bacteria: How many? How fast? Landers, Bill. (2009, July https://www.rdhmag.com/infection-control/water-safety/article/16404976/oral-bacteria-how-many-how-fast
7. Mouth Microbes. (2019, May) https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2019/05/mouth-microbes

The post Why do we ACTUALLY brush our teeth twice per day? appeared first on Smile Brilliant.

If you hate flossing, you are not alone. In fact, many people say they would rather wash dishes or sit in traffic than to floss!^[4] Despite the dread most people feel for flossing, cleaning in between the teeth is one of the most important things you can do to keep your teeth for your entire life.

Why is flossing important?

Brushing your teeth is critical to removing the harmful plaque that accumulates on the surfaces of the oral cavity. However, a toothbrush can only remove plaque if it can reach it. The areas in between the teeth are generally not large enough to allow access to toothbrush bristles^[1]. If you’re not doing something to clean in between the teeth, the plaque that collects in these areas can cause dental diseases such as cavities, gingivitis, or periodontal (gum) disease^[1]. Even though flossing is important, only about one third of people floss daily, while one third floss at least once per week, and one third never floss^[3]! In comparison, 77% of people brush twice every day^[2]. People may not floss because it is inconvenient or uncomfortable, while others do not see the value in doing it.

Is flossing for everyone?

Brush, floss, rinse, repeat. This routine has been engrained through messages from our dental care providers and dental product marketing. However, no two mouths are exactly alike, which means each individual’s oral care regimen should be individualized. People who have braces greatly benefit from the use of a water flosser. There are even special water flosser tips designed just for people with braces. Water flossers are also a great addition for people who have deep pockets around their teeth, and for those with dental implants. Interdental brushes can be helpful with people with wider spaces in between their teeth.

String floss comes in many varieties: waxed, unwaxed, taped, tufted… Most of the floss selection comes down to personal preference. Some types of floss are sturdier to avoid shredding between crowded teeth or on rough restorations. If you are able to effectively manipulate floss, string floss gives you the most control and effective adaptation to the teeth. However, if you have a hard time reaching your back teeth when flossing or if you struggle with dexterity challenges, floss holders or floss picks make flossing easier. While it is more difficult to get the floss to “hug” the tooth with these types of aids, they are still useful.

But what if my gums bleed when I floss?

Bleeding when flossing is a sign of disease. Bleeding is present in gingivitis as well as in most cases of active periodontal disease. Both types of disease are caused by an infection of the gums caused by bad bacteria. Your dentist or dental hygienist can tell you if you have one of these conditions. You may need special dental care in which the buildup is removed from the teeth above and below the gumline.

If your gums bleed when you floss, it is a sign that you should floss more frequently, not less frequently! Removing the bad bacteria from in between the teeth will help your body to heal, and will actually lead to a decrease in bleeding over the span of a couple of weeks. Just make sure you are hugging the floss in a soft “C” shape around the tooth and using an up-and-down motion. Do not saw the floss back and forth, as this will cut the gums.

Whichever method of flossing you choose to use, start by setting realistic goals. If you have never flossed before, consider starting by flossing two or three times weekly, and gradually increasing to daily flossing. Making flossing part of your hygiene routine will help to keep your mouth looking and smelling great!

Learn more about Rachel Stroble, and check out her other article A Few Minutes Can Save a Life.

Register as an RDH Connect member to gain the connections, experience, & exposure to grow your career.

Rachel Stroble

Rachel Stroble is a researcher, professor of dental hygiene at Rose State College in Oklahoma, and registered dental hygienist with 10 years of experience in dentistry. She supports education in the classroom with her own students, in the professional community through the development and presentation of continuing education courses, and you may have seen her articles in RDH Magazine, Today’s RDH, and the Oklahoma Dental Association Journal.

View My Profile Contact Rachel

1. American Dental Association. (2021, September 21). Floss/interdental cleaners. https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/floss
2. Busch, M. (2020, October 21). How did patients’ dental habits change during COVID-19? Delta Dental Institute. https://www.deltadentalinstitute.com/news/delta-dental-news/how-did-patients-dental-habits-change-during-covid-19/
3. Fleming, E. B., Nguyen, D., Afful, J., Carroll, M. D., & Woods, P. D. (2018). Prevalence of daily flossing among adults by selected risk factors for periodontal disease-United States, 2011-2014. Journal of Periodontology, 89(8), 933–939. https://doi.org/10.1002/JPER.17-0572
4. Rack, J., (2015, June 24). Are you flossing or just lying about it? The dentist knows. NPR. https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2015/06/24/417184367/are-you-flossing-or-just-lying-about-flossing-the-dentist-knows

The post Help! I hate flossing! appeared first on Smile Brilliant.

If there is a link between oral and systemic health, does this mean there’s a link between medications and the oral cavity as well? As it turns out, yes! Let’s discuss the systemic implications of antibiotics and how they can affect the teeth long after the course has been finished.

What are antibiotics and why do people take them?

Antibiotics are taken for bacterial infections like strep throat or UTI’s ^[1]. These are infections that are caused by an overgrowth of bacteria. Antibiotics work by killing off these bacteria or preventing them from multiplying. While antibiotics are useful in treating bacterial infections and quickly bring relief, they are not useful for viral infections like herpes or the flu.

Do antibiotics always affect teeth?

While antibiotics can affect your teeth, it doesn’t mean that they necessarily will. In fact, there is a good chance that you will take an antibiotic at some time in your life without any kind of complication. Effects of antibiotics on teeth are mostly dependent on two different factors: 1.) how long the antibiotic was/is taken and 2.) age.

What are the effects of antibiotics in children vs adults?

Fun fact, teeth begin to develop in utero at about 6 weeks ^[2]. Since the development process begins so early, it can be easily disrupted by genetics, drug/alcohol use of the mother, and medications. Tetracycline is one of the antibiotics most associated with developmental disturbances of the teeth ^[3]. It is a broad-spectrum antibacterial drug that is used to treat many infectious diseases. When taken during pregnancy, it causes permanent discoloration to the teeth. Tetracycline staining often appears brownish- gray or sometimes has a bluish hue. Tetracycline staining can affect adults as well, but this is typically only in adults who take it for long periods of time. Amoxicillin ingestion while baby is in utero is associated with developmental enamel defects that appear as spotted white flecks, possibly due to hypo- mineralization of the enamel ^[2].

Are developmental tooth defects from antibiotics permanent?

Unfortunately, if the development process of teeth is disturbed when in utero, the effects are permanent. Developmental disturbances occur on a cellular level which then go on to affect the rest of the developing teeth. If teeth are affected by tetracycline staining and appear bluish gray, bleaching will not do anything to whiten them since the staining is within the tooth as opposed to on the tooth like coffee or red wine. The same goes for Amoxicillin and its areas of hypo-mineralization. For developmental stains like these, one might consider veneers or crowns as aesthetic options.
Developmental anomalies of the teeth are not uncommon. Teeth form very early in life and the development process can be easily disturbed. While developmental disturbances are permanent, dentistry is always evolving and affords many options for aesthetics.

Esmy Ornelas

Esmy Ornelas is a registered Dental Hygienist, writer, educator, and consultant with 10 years of experience in dentistry. She is passionate about education, empowering hygienists to advance their careers in and out of the operatory, and about community. She has written for RDH Magazine, the RDH Graduate, and is a full-time professor of Dental Hygiene and Assisting at Rose State College in Oklahoma.

View My Profile Contact Esmy

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, October 6). Antibiotic use questions and answers. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/q-a.html
2. Hong, L., Levy, S. M., Warren, J. J., & Broffitt, B. (2011). Amoxicillin use during early childhood and fluorosis of later developing Tooth Zones. Journal of public health dentistry. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4556648/
3. Prachi, J., & Manu, R. (n.d.). Embryology, teeth – statpearls – NCBI bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560515/
   .

The post Effects of antibiotics on teeth – as a child and adult appeared first on Smile Brilliant.

Cancer. It’s one of the scariest words anyone can hear at a healthcare visit. You may not know that it’s something your dental hygienist should be checking for at every visit. Keep reading for practical advice and information about why this important piece of your dental health care should never be overlooked.

How common is oral cancer?

Oral Cancer is the 13th most common type of cancer worldwide, according to the World Health Organization ^[3]. It makes up just over two percent of all cancers ^[2]. While this may seem like a relatively small percentage, oral cancer has a serious impact on those who have it. In 2020, 177,757 people died worldwide of oral cancer ^[3]. Certain risk factors increase the chances of developing oral cancer. People who smoke are at a much higher risk than those who do not ^[1]. Alcohol consumption also increases the risk, and those who drink heavily are at a higher risk than casual drinkers ^[1]. Tobacco and alcohol consumed together provide a synergistic effect, meaning that those who smoke and drink are at an exponentially higher risk of developing oral cancer ^[1]. Other types of tobacco, including chewing tobacco, snuff, and pipes also increase the risk ^[1]. HPV is also a big contributing factor, as is excess sun exposure . ^[1]

What happens during an oral cancer screening?

During an oral cancer screening, your dental hygienist will begin with an extra-oral exam. They will palpate your face, head, and neck with their gloved hands. They may ask you to turn your head to the side or tip your chin up and down. They will feel underneath your chin, behind your ears, and at the base of your skull. They will also have you open and close your mouth as they feel your jaw joint. They will feel your trachea and thyroid, and check for any abnormal lymph nodes. Next, the hygienist will begin the intra-oral portion of the exam. They will palpate your lips, cheeks, palate, and the floor of your mouth. They will stretch your cheeks slightly to get a good field of vision. They will have you stick your tongue out so they can check the sides of it, because this is one of the most common areas for oral cancer to occur. Oral cancer screenings are comfortable to receive and take only a few minutes.

Should I ask for an oral cancer screening?

Many dental hygienists already incorporate oral cancer screenings into preventive dental care appointments. However, if you aren’t sure if you are receiving this screening, ask them! Registered dental hygienists receive in-depth training during their formal education about how to screen for and detect abnormal findings that can indicate cancer and other serious conditions. If your hygienist is not performing screenings at every visit, you should absolutely ask them to. It could mean the difference between life and death. You can also ask your hygienist to show you some techniques you can use at home to perform self-screenings. While self-screenings are valuable, it’s important to keep in mind that they are not a substitute for professional screenings.

What happens if my hygienist finds something?

The first thing your dental hygienist will do if they find something suspicious during your screening is notify the dentist. The dentist will evaluate the area and determine if the finding is truly abnormal. Then, they will decide if a biopsy needs to be performed, or if a referral to a specialist is necessary. If they refer you to see a specialist, such as an oral surgeon, it is critical that you follow through and see them. While it may seem scary to seek more information, when oral cancer is caught early, it has much better outcomes.

Rachel Stroble

Rachel Stroble is a researcher, professor of dental hygiene at Rose State College in Oklahoma, and registered dental hygienist with 10 years of experience in dentistry. She supports education in the classroom with her own students, in the professional community through the development and presentation of continuing education courses, and you may have seen her articles in RDH Magazine, Today’s RDH, and the Oklahoma Dental Association Journal.

View My Profile Contact Rachel

1. American Cancer Society. (2021, March 23). Risk factors for oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/oral-cavity-and-oropharyngeal-cancer/causes-risks-prevention/risk-factors.html
2. World Cancer Research Foundation. (2022, March 23). Worldwide cancer data. https://www.wcrf.org/cancer-trends/worldwide-cancer-data/
3. World Health Organization. (2023, March 14). Oral health. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/oral-health#:~:text=Globally%2C%20an%20estimated%202%20billion,from%20caries%20of%20primary%20teeth.

The post A few minutes can save a life: oral cancer screenings appeared first on Smile Brilliant.

Over the years there has been a rise in the usage of electronic cigarettes also known as “e-cigs,” “vapes,’ “e-hookahs, “vape pens,” and “electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS.)”^[2] The devices can look like traditional cigarettes, cigars, or pipes or they can be more unconventional in their design and resemble USB flash drives, pens, or something that is less detectable.^[2] This can be concerning as many youths could be potentially damaging their health while their caregivers are completely unaware.

The rise of underage use

It has been reported by various news outlets that there has been widespread usage of vapes by youths in schools in classrooms and bathrooms.^[8] The popularity amongst youth is attributed by researchers to the sweet flavoring that many companies incorporate into the vapor that is inhaled. Many youths believe that vaping is less harmful than smoking cigarettes. Vapes can also be less expensive than traditional cigarettes overtime which is more economical for the younger population.^[3][8] The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) prohibited the sale of prefilled cartridge e-cigarettes in any flavor other than tobacco or menthol, on January 2, 2020 unless authorized by FDA. Restricting harmful marketing tactics that were directed at young ones was instituted as well so as to help decrease the usage of these products by youths which was on the rise.^[8]

Oral health implications

Most popular reports tend to focus on the potential dangers using electronic cigarettes can have on one’s heart and lungs.^[1] The rise of vaping has lead to an outbreak of lung injuries and deaths that have been attributed to the individuals vaping habits.^[3] Research also shows that there is a negative correlation with the use of e-cigarettes and poor oral health.^[1] Nicotine in any form whether it is smoked or vaped restricts the blood flow to the gums.This restriction increases one’s risk to periodontal (gum) disease, inflammation, tooth cavities, and oral cancer.^[1]

Why vaping is not actually a safer alternative

Some e-cigarette users may have turned to vaping because they considered it a safer alternative to using traditional cigarettes. Research however, shows that the nicotine delivery and emission of some e-cigarettes is comparable to those from traditional cigarettes.^[6] E-cigarettes use a battery that heats up the liquid called “e-juice” into an aerosol that is inhaled by users. Some users think the steam from the vape pens are harmless water vapor when in actuality they can contain the following chemicals: nicotine, propylene glycol, formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, acrolein, dactyl, dtiethylene glycol, cadmium, benzene, heavy metals, and ultra fine particles that can be inhaled deep into the lungs.^[5][6] Many of these chemicals are considered to be cancer causing carcinogens that are also linked to causing lung disease, are weed killers, are used in explosives, or are used in antifreeze.The chemicals found in e-cigarettes increases an individual’s risk to gum disease, cavities, and oral cancer.^[1]

Gum disease & your health

The gums are the foundation of your mouth and aid in supporting your teeth and protecting the roots of your teeth. They provide a protective barrier between harmful oral bacteria that can affect our overall health and wellness. When someone has gum disease their gums are compromised. The gums aren’t able to protect the mouth from harmful bacteria due to being infected and inflamed. From the moment that the vapor from the e-cigarettes enter your body from the mouth, the toxic cocktail of chemicals begin to inflict damage.^[1] Nicotine in any form, whether it is vaped, smoked, or chewed restricts the blood flow to the gums and contribute to gum (periodontal) disease. Vaping can cause mouth and throat irritation, and cause the gums to become tender, swollen, and red.^[4] If the fluid in the vape contains nicotine, then there is an increased risk of teeth stains and discoloration, teeth grinding, and receding gums. Individuals with gum disease have an increased risk of having cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, pregnancy complications, dementia, and cancer.^[6]

The time to quit is now

Quitting the use of tobacco can be difficult if you try to do it without the help of a healthcare professional. Often users relapse as tobacco dependence is a difficult habit to break. Talking with a healthcare provider can increase your chances of being successful. Your provider might counsel you and recommend cessation medications that are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration that are evidenced based treatments. Your health is worth all the effort that you make to maintain a healthy lifestyle and move towards having overall health and wellness.

Kari Carter-Cherelus

Kari Carter-Cherelus RDH, DA is a registered Dental Hygienist, writer, consultant, coach, international keynote speaker, with 23 years of experience in dentistry. She is passionate about helping others recover from burnout, improving organization’s work culture, and helping her clients to improve their mindset. She authored the book The Ultimate Guide For Dental Hygienist Burnout, and has written for RDH Graduate, RDH Magazine, and Inside Dental Hygiene.

View My Profile Contact Kari

The post The truth about how vaping harms your oral & overall health appeared first on Smile Brilliant.

We all encounter biofilm in daily life. If you have been wondering what biofilm is, or what dental plaque is made of, this article will provide clarification.

Biofilm contains bacteria and other microbes

Biofilm is a sticky substance that forms in moist environments, such as ponds, pet water bowls, and the human mouth. Dental biofilm, commonly known as plaque, adheres to the teeth and other oral tissues such as the tongue. Plaque is sticky and contains food particles. Dental biofilm also contains bacteria and other germs, such as viruses and fungi ^[2][4]. In fact, the COVID-19 virus is present in the biofilm of people with active, symptomatic cases of COVID ^[2]. Both good bacteria and bad bacteria comprise the oral environment. Bad bacteria in the oral microbiome are usually anaerobic (meaning they do not need air to survive) ^[1][5]. Good bacteria have a protective role in your oral health.

It forms quickly

Dental biofilm begins to form within minutes of brushing and flossing your teeth. Most people develop biofilm above the gumline at about the same rate ^[7]. However, people who have gum disease develop bad bacteria below the gum line at a faster rate than those with healthy gums ^[7].

It causes bad breath

Bacteria produce acid and other byproducts as it digests the foods and beverages you eat and drink. The bacteria and its waste products emit an unpleasant odor, which is a key factor in bad breath. Your oral pH can contribute to the formation of biofilm (bad bacteria love acidic environments), so your diet and other oral factors influencing pH may be making your bad breath worse ^[6].

It damages your teeth

Acid is a key factor in cavity formation, and the production of acid in the mouth is a vicious cycle. The more bad bacteria you have in your mouth, the more acidic your oral pH. The more acidic your oral pH, the more the bad bacteria grow and reproduce ^[6]. Teeth are made of minerals, and all this acid eats away at the calcium and phosphate in your enamel and tooth root surfaces ^[6]. With weakened tooth structure, cavities form.

It damages your gums and bone

The bad bacteria in your oral microbiome also damages your gums and the bone underneath. It hides underneath the gums in areas that your toothbrush may not be able to reach and actually makes its way through the gum tissue. The bacteria can even end up on the bone that surrounds the teeth. All of this bacterial invasion causes the immune system to respond, which ultimately causes permanent damage to the bone. The bone slowly begins to recede, leaving less and less supporting structure for the teeth ^[3].

It needs to be removed

As you now know, dental biofilm needs to be removed to prevent dental disease like cavities and gum disease. Twice daily removal of dental biofilm is recommended with brushing and flossing along with plaque disclosing tablets or other techniques your dental care professional recommends for you. Look for our other articles on how to protect your teeth and gums with effective oral home care!

Rachel Stroble

Rachel Stroble is a researcher, professor of dental hygiene at Rose State College in Oklahoma, and registered dental hygienist with 10 years of experience in dentistry. She supports education in the classroom with her own students, in the professional community through the development and presentation of continuing education courses, and you may have seen her articles in RDH Magazine, Today’s RDH, and the Oklahoma Dental Association Journal.

View My Profile Contact Rachel

References

1. AGGREGATIBACTER ACTINOMYCETEMCOMITANS – AAP Connect. (n.d.). Higher Logic, LLC. Retrieved September 17, 2022, from https://members.perio.org/libraries/glossary/entry?GlossaryKey=7601a9b2-e9ce-42dc-b36d-83059e33ac32&ssopc=1
2. Gomes, S. C., Fachin, S., Fonseca, J. G., Angst, P. D. M., Lamers, M. L., Silva, I. S. B., & Nunes, L. N. (2021). Dental biofilm of symptomatic COVID‐19 patients harbours SARS‐CoV‐2. Journal of Clinical Periodontology, 48(7), https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpe.13471
3. Lasserre, J. F., Brecx, M. C., & Toma, S. (2018). Oral Microbes, Biofilms and Their Role in Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases. Materials, 11(10), https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11101802
4. Matsumoto-Nakano, M., (2018). Role of Streptococcus mutans surface proteins for biofilm formation. Japanese Dental Science Review 54(1), http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jdsr.2017.08.002
5. PORPHYROMONAS GINGIVALIS – AAP Connect. (n.d.). Higher Logic, LLC. Retrieved September 17, 2022, from https://members.perio.org/libraries/glossary/entry?GlossaryKey=965ec455-2938-4d54-9947-196ea454164b&tab=groupdetails&ssopc=1
6. Tarcísio Jorge Leitão, Jaime, A. C., & Livia Maria Andaló Tenuta. (2018). Kinetics of calcium binding to dental biofilm bacteria. PLoS One, 13(1) https://doi-org.argo.library.okstate.edu/10.1371/journal.pone.0191284
7. Uzel, N. G., Teles, F. R., Teles, R. P., Song, X. Q., Torresyap, G., Socransky, S. S., & Haffajee, A. D. (2011). Microbial shifts during dental biofilm re-development in the absence of oral hygiene in periodontal health and disease. Journal of Clinical Periodontology, 38(7), https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1600-051X.2011.01730.x

The post What is biofilm? appeared first on Smile Brilliant.