CAVITIES Archives - Smile Brilliant

Help! I hate flossing!

Rachel Stroble — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 06:45:55 +0000

Flossing may not be the most enjoyable task, but its importance in maintaining oral health cannot be overstated. Neglecting to floss can lead to serious dental issues like cavities and gum disease. While it may seem inconvenient or uncomfortable, finding the right flossing method tailored to individual needs can make the process easier and more effective. Consistent flossing, even just a few times a week to start, can significantly contribute to a healthier mouth and a brighter smile in the long run.

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.

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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.

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References

American Dental Association. (2021, September 21). Floss/interdental cleaners. https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/floss
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/
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
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

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Why does sugar cause cavities? The science of sugar, acidity, and decay

Rachel Stroble — Tue, 07 Nov 2023 07:07:11 +0000

Find out from a dental hygienist how sugar actually affects the teeth and why it leads to cavities as well as how you can protect your teeth without cutting sugar out completely.

The effect of sugar on your mouth

Sugary foods and drinks can wreak havoc on your oral health. The bad bacteria that live in your mouth love sugar! They metabolize it and create acid as a by-product^[4]. Even among sugary foods, not all are created equal. Sticky foods such as gummy candies stay in the mouth longer because they adhere to your teeth. Also, many sugary foods and beverages are also acidic. For instance, sodas and energy drinks are very acidic. This is the perfect storm—the bad bacteria that love sugar also love acid! In this environment, these bacteria grow and multiply quickly. Acid leaches minerals out of your teeth and encourages cavity formation as sugar promotes bacterial growth.^[3]. Furthermore, even though diet drinks may be sugar-free, they are often still quite acidic. It’s a good idea to treat them as if they contain sugar, in terms of how you consume them, to reduce your risk of cavities.

How acid damages your teeth

Acid is the enemy of teeth. Our teeth are made of minerals, primarily calcium and phosphate, and acid actually dissolves these minerals out of the tooth enamel, leaving the teeth weak and demineralized ^[5]. After an area of your enamel is demineralized, the bacteria are able to move deeper into the tooth, where they secrete more acid. This is how cavities form. The bacteria are basically burrowing into the teeth, destroying tooth structure as they go. To make matters worse, the more acidic your mouth is, the more bad bacteria you probably have. The more bad bacteria you have, the more acidic your mouth becomes!

Frequency and duration of consumption matter

Yes, what you eat and drink does matter! However, did you know how you consume it makes a difference too? If you are sipping on a sugary drink over a long period of time, you are essentially bathing your teeth in acid. Even if you aren’t drinking a large amount of the beverage, frequent exposure means that your teeth suffer a more prolonged acid attack ^[2]. Let’s all be honest. Most people are not going to be swearing off candy and soda altogether. Enjoy your snacks, but enjoy them in moderation, and in one sitting (20 minutes or less). It’s also a good idea to drink water when you are finished to help rinse away residual food debris and sugar.

Good oral hygiene helps

One of the best things you can do to prevent dental disease, including cavities, is to keep your mouth clean! Brushing and cleaning in between your teeth by using floss, a water flosser, or interdental brush, dramatically decreases how much bacteria is in your mouth because you are removing biofilm (plaque). Ideally, everyone should brush twice per day and clean between their teeth once per day. The lower the level of bad bacteria you have, the lower your risk of cavities and gum disease ^[4]. Additionally, chewing sugar-free gum after consuming sugary foods or drinks helps to stimulate saliva flow. Saliva helps to neutralize the pH of the mouth and rinse away some of the residual sugars and food particles ^[1]. You don’t have to give up sugar for the sake of your teeth, but you can be smarter about how you consume it!

Rachel Stroble

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Dodds, M., Roland, S., Edgar, M. et al. Saliva A review of its role in maintaining oral health and preventing dental disease. BDJ Team 2, 15123 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1038/bdjteam.2015.123
Ireland, R., & Yeung, C. A., (2020) Stephan’s curve. In A Dictionary of Dentistry (2nd ed.). Oxford University Press.
Kulshrestha, S., Khan, S., Hasan, S., Khan, M. E., Misba, L., & Khan, A. U. (2015). Calcium fluoride nanoparticles induced suppression of Streptococcus mutans biofilm: An in vitro and in vivo approach. Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, 100(4), 1901–1914. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00253-015-7154-4
Scannapieco, F. A., & Dongari‐Bagtzoglou, A. (2021). Dysbiosis revisited: Understanding the role of the oral microbiome in the pathogenesis of gingivitis and periodontitis: A critical assessment. Journal of Periodontology (1970), 92(8), 1071–1078. https://doi.org/10.1002/JPER.21-0120
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

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How to brush your teeth to avoid damage

Kari Carter-Cherelus — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 07:05:22 +0000

Proper brushing, soft bristles, and regular care prevent dental issues. Optimal oral health shields against systemic diseases; invest in your oral health each day for a healthier future.

Dental hygienists teach their patients daily how to improve their oral hygiene techniques. Good oral hygiene is important for your overall well being, the prevention of cavities and gum disease. Your oral health can impact serious health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.^[2] An important part of oral hygiene instruction is teaching patients how to brush effectively. Brushing incorrectly or with the wrong toothbrush can prove harmful to your teeth and your gums.

The proper brushing technique is to place your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle towards your gum line. Gently move your toothbrush in a circular motion. Brush upwards when you are brushing your teeth at the top of your mouth and brush downwards when you are brushing the bottom teeth. It’s important to brush all the surfaces of your teeth. These surfaces include the outer surfaces which our closest to your cheeks, inner surfaces closest to your tongue, and the surfaces that you use to chew with^[2] To brush the inside surfaces of your front teeth tilt the toothbrush vertically and brush using up-and down strokes.^[2]

You should brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush so as to remove the plaque acids that contribute to dental cavities. It is important to replace your toothbrush every three months or sooner. Most toothbrushes have indicator bristles that start fading to indicate that replacement is needed. If your bristles start to flare out that is and indication that it is time to replace your toothbrush as a worn out toothbrush won’t be effective in helping you to keep your teeth clean.^[1]

Although you can purchase a medium or a hard toothbrush, these are not recommended as they are known to contribute to damaging the gums, root surfaces, and tooth enamel.^[2] The risk of damaging these structure increases if you brush too hard or aggressively causing toothbrush abrasion.^[2]^[3] If we damage our tooth enamel we may become more susceptible to tooth decay as bacteria can penetrate damaged areas in our teeth more easily. Toothbrush abrasion can also contribute to tooth discoloration as well as painful sensitivity to temperatures and sweets.^[3] If you experience this your dentist will be able to go over various restorative options such as a filling, crown, or a veneer.^[3] The dentist will help alleviate pain or discomfort and recommend future prevention techniques.

Toothbrushes: disposable manual or electric?

Either a manual or a disposable toothbrush will be effective in removing plaque buildup if the user is using the proper brushing technique and brushing regularly.^[2] There are however some advantages to using an electric toothbrush. Some individuals find that using an electric toothbrush helps them to properly clean all their teeth surfaces properly.^[2] Use of an electric toothbrush can help individuals or their caregivers when there is an issue with limited hand mobility due to arthritis, Parkinson’s, or other ailments.^[2] Some electric toothbrushes have built-in timers, pressure indicators, and other features that help the user.^[2] Brushing and flossing can help to keep harmful oral bacteria under control that would otherwise overgrow and contribute to tooth decay, gum disease, oral infections, and harm our overall health and wellness.^[4] You can help protect your health by maintaining your oral health and making sure you see your dentist regularly.^[4] Caring for your oral health in an investment that worthwhile and benefits your overall health.^[4]

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.

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Combat sudden tooth pain: uncover causes & solutions

Kari Carter-Cherelus — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 06:24:40 +0000

Sudden tooth pain requires a visit to your dental provider to determine & treat the cause. Learn possible causes, prevention and treatment essentials from a dental hygienist.

Tooth pain is often hard for one to ignore regardless if it is sharp, sudden, dull, or a constant ache.^[1] The most common causes of tooth pain is an active tooth infection, decay, injury, or tooth loss.^[1] At times pain might originate from other areas such as the jaw joint, ears, sinuses, and even from heart problems that radiate to your teeth and present as tooth pain.^[1] Most causes of tooth pain are treatable by your dentist.^[3]

What causes tooth sensitivity?

A toothache occurs when the pulp (central portion of the tooth) becomes sensitive to pain, often due to inflammation.^[1] Common causes of pulpal inflammation are dental cavities, trauma, teeth grinding, gum disease, or infection.^[1]

You might be experiencing pain due to having a cracked tooth. This can occur due to clenching or grinding your teeth or even chewing on hard foods such as ice, nuts, or hard candy^[2]Some other causes of a cracked tooth are pressure from clenching or grinding your teeth, large fillings that weaken the tooth’s integrity, or trauma to the mouth.^[2]

Complications of a cracked tooth

You should not ignore pain in your teeth as doing so could lead to complications. Infection from your tooth can spread to the bone, gums, and enter into your bloodstream. Your dentist will determine what treatment may be needed to treat your toothache by finding out what is causing the discomfort. Antibiotics will be prescribed if there is an infection present around the tooth, you have a fever, or swelling of the jaw is present^[1]

Symptoms of a dental infection or a cracked tooth are a fever, pain when chewing, swollen gums, sensitivity to hot and cold food or beverages, and sore lymph nodes^[2]

How tooth pain is treated

The dentist may recommend possible procedures such as fillings, extractions, root canal therapy, occlusal guard, or crowns.

Fillings – A plastic resin restoration that is placed that resembles the natural look of the tooth is used to fill the crack and restore the tooth to its functionality.^[2]
Extraction- When the tooth is extremely decayed, cracked, or damaged then it will need to be extracted or permanently removed^[2]
Root Canal Therapy- when decay or a crack extends into the pulp a root canal is need to remove the damaged pulp and restore the integrity of the tooth, preventing further damage or infection.^[2]
Occlusal Guard – prevents damage to your teeth that can be caused by grinding and clenching
Crown – a dental crown is usually made of porcelain or ceramic and fits over the tooth.^[2]

Sometimes the dentist might recommend not to proceed with any treatment. If a patient has a hairline crack in the enamel of their teeth that doesn’t produce pain or negatively affect their appearance no treatment might be needed.^[2]

How to prevent a toothache

Avoid chewing hard foods and use a mouth guard if you clench or grind your teeth. If you play contact sports wear a sports mouthguard to protect your teeth from injury.^[2] Visiting your dentist regularly for preventative care can help your healthcare professional to address concerns when they are small and manageable^[2] Receiving prompt treatment can help you reduce the risks of losing your tooth, further damage, and preventing harmful infection from spreading.^[2] Brushing twice a day and flossing daily will help to prevent dental diseases that contribute to tooth problems.

Kari Carter-Cherelus

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Why you’re getting cavities even with excellent oral hygiene

Kari Carter-Cherelus — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 08:01:04 +0000

Beyond brushing, a healthy oral microbiome matters. Refined carbs, bad bacteria, dry mouth lead to cavities. Combat with diet and oral probiotics.

Although brushing and flossing is important to preserving good dental health, there are other risk factors that we battle in trying to stay cavity free.

Why a healthy microbiome Is important

A healthy oral microbiome is important for our overall health and wellness. We all know that sugary foods are a key contributor to tooth decay, however many don’t know the reason why they contribute to chat cavities. It can feel frustrating to feel as though we are doing our best to keep our mouths healthy only to still receive bad news at our dental visits.

It’s your diet

Even if you are brushing and flossing correctly a diet that is rich in refined carbohydrates could be a potential culprit. Refined carbohydrates such as white bread, pasta, pizza dough, pastries, and sugary beverages such as juices or energy drinks, break down into simple sugars. That sugar turns to harmful acids that decrease the oral pH in your mouth.^[3]

Good bacteria versus bad bacteria

Our mouths are full of different types of bacteria that live on all of the surfaces within our mouths. Some bacteria are considered good bacteria that are helpful and some are considered to be bad bacteria that can destroy our teeth. When the ph in our mouth lowers it makes the mouth more susceptible to cavities because the bad bacteria grows quickly in this environment. When the sugar we consume is exposed to the bad bacteria, it gives the bad bacteria the energy it needs to grow to form a sticky substance called plaque. The bad bacteria overload will cause the enamel of your teeth to break down. This constant battle between good and bad bacteria contributes to the process which creates those pesky cavities! ^[1] ^[4]

Your mouth is dry

Dry mouth is the condition when your mouth lacks adequate saliva to keep the teeth, tongue, and oral environment moist. Saliva helps to naturally rinse foods and plaque from sticking to your teeth. When one has chronic dry mouth they have a higher risk of developing decay. If you are taking certain medications, for example and are undergoing cancer treatment and taking chemotherapy drugs and/or radiation treatment. Certain medical conditions such as Sjogen’s syndrome causes your mouth to become unusually dry. You should contact your doctor to determine the root cause of your dry mouth. To help alleviate dry mouth you should drink water frequently, use alcohol free mouthwashes, and use sugar free lozenges that help keep the mouth moist.^[2]

We can combat these risk factors by introducing good bacteria into our mouth to fight against that bad bacteria that contributes to cavities. Introducing substances into our saliva such as using dental oral probiotics can help prevent cavities by fighting against plaque buildup. Oral probiotics counteract the harmful acids that the bacteria produces by introducing specific strains of good bacteria that are known to support a healthy oral biome, and improve oral health. Oral probiotics encourage the growth of good bacteria and help to suppress the bad bacteria that contributes to decay and other issues. They can help improve bad breath caused by harmful bacteria and help buildup the body’s immune defense. Changing out dietary habits as well as incorporating oral probiotics could hopefully set us up for better dental visits in the future.^[5]

Kari Carter-Cherelus

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Can I cure my cavities by oil pulling?

Kari Carter-Cherelus — Fri, 14 Jul 2023 10:06:19 +0000

Oil pulling is thought to be a cheap home remedy, and effective alternative to traditional treatment, for a variety of oral ailments including cavities, pain, inflammation, and chronic dry mouth. Find out why oil is thought to soothe so many oral health problems & how effective it really is from a dental hygienist.

There has been a renewed interest in home remedies over the years to improve one’s health without using traditional pharmaceutical means or medical interventions. This rise of interest in home remedies to fix oral issues is often attributed to social media trends that often go viral.^[5] However, according to the report Dental Dangers: Home remedies To Avoid While Waiting For Care, many are turning to at-home options due to their lack of access to professional oral healthcare services.^[6] Some individuals either are not willingly seeking professional oral care or have barriers that create access to care issues. These individuals often seek DIY options to help alleviate or cure bleeding gums, chronic dry mouth, broken teeth, toothaches, and cracked teeth.^[5] One method that some have considered is using oil pulling to cure their cavities. Some individuals have even become convinced from various internet sites that oil pulling can help cure cavities by reversing them, resulting in not needing fillings or other dental work. Can you cure your cavities by oil pulling? Is that really possible?

What is a cavity?

First, let’s discuss what a cavity actually is. Cavities or tooth decay is when the hard surface of your teeth (enamel) becomes damaged with tiny openings or holes.^[4] These openings are filled with harmful bacteria acids that will continue to burrow through the tooth breaking down the different layers of tooth structure and causing more damage.

You might not initially know you have a cavity when it first starts, however as it progresses you might experience a toothache, see holes or pits in your tooth, or see some brown, black, or white staining on your tooth.^[4] Delaying the proper treatment–having a dentist provide restorative treatment–can lead to a severe toothache, infection, nerve damage, or even tooth loss.^[4] Think of an apple that has a rotten piece on the fruit, if you cut the rotten piece out the apple is still salvageable. However if you don’t remove the rotten piece then it continues to infect the whole fruit and eventually becomes inedible.

To get rid of a cavity a dentist has to mechanically remove the decay from your tooth with special instruments and place a restoration on the tooth to strengthen it. Once the cavity has penetrated the hard enamel, restorative treatment is necessary because the decay cannot be reversed by any type of medicament.

What is oil pulling?

I know you’ve probably seen popular influencers or celebrities touting the healing benefits of oil pulling…but what is it? Oil pulling involves swishing with a teaspoon of oil in your mouth for twenty minutes every day and then to spitting the oil out.^[2] Many users prefer to use coconut oil for its antibacterial properties, however the original Ayurvedic method calls for the user to use sesame oil.^[2] Oil pulling has been done for centuries by enthusiastic users who claim it helps prevent tooth decay, bad breath, bleeding gums, throat dryness, and cracked lips.^[2]

Although oil pulling might not be the cure all that some claim it to be, according to research it can prove beneficial when used in conjunction with brushing and cleaning interdentally.^[3] Studies suggest that there are benefits to oil pulling such as reducing inflammation by decreasing the bacteria and it can prevent plaque formation.^[3] Certain oils such as coconut are known to have antibacterial properties and is a favorite amongst many who oil pull for its health benefits. You can not, despite the false claims online, cure your cavities by oil pulling.

How to oil pull:

Swish with one teaspoon of coconut or sesame oil in your mouth for twenty minutes.^[3]
After swishing for twenty minutes, spit the oil in the trash can. Spitting the oil down your drains could damage your plumbing.^[3]
Rinse your mouth out with water.^[3]

The average individual can oil pull if they like as an adjunct to what they are already doing in their oral home care routine. If you are brushing at least twice a day for two minutes as well as cleaning in between your teeth with floss or another oral health aid ,then by all means have at it! (3) These are the basics and are the foundation of having a good oral routine that helps to reduce oral disease.^[3] If you are, however, not doing the basics will you realistically be able to incorporate oil pulling for twenty minutes a day daily into your routine?

It is important to make sure you have a realistic oral homecare routine that you can be consistent with. Make sure you visit a dental office regularly. Going to your dental office regularly to see dental professionals is important so as to alert you to any changes that are occurring in your mouth. Incorporating any adjunctive home remedy should be discussed with your dental professionals so they can give you the best tips and base suggestions on your specific needs. Seek out local resources that can help you with any access to care issues as there may be help available that you are unaware of.

Kari Carter-Cherelus

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How to get rid of cavities: Do Home Remedies Work? (2022, December 29).https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-get-rid-of-cavities/
Cleveland Clinic. The benefits of oil pulling for Dental Health. (2022, September 14). https://health.clevelandclinic.org/is-oil-pulling-your-best-choice-for-dental-health/
Oil Pulling for maintains oral hygiene. (2017, January 7). Shanghai, Vanish Kumar L. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5198813/
Mayo Clinic. Cavities/tooth decay https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/symptoms-causes/syc-2035289
Dangerous at-home care: Who’s most at risk? Leaver, Elizabeth S. (2023, June 2). https://www.dentistryiq.com/dentistry/article/14294701/dangerous-athome-oral-care-whos-most-at-risk
CareQuest. Institute for Oral Health. Dental Danger: Home Remedies to avoid while waiting for dental care. Boston, MA (2023, April) https://www.carequest.org/system/files/CareQuest_Institute_Dental-Danger_5.19.23.pdf

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Myth or fact: chewing gum can get rid of a double chin

Esmy Ornelas — Thu, 06 Jul 2023 07:35:19 +0000

Chewing gum with xylitol can positively affect oral health in several ways as well as strengthen masticatory muscles, but getting rid of a double chin is more complex.

Chewing gum can help with a dry mouth and in some cases, the prevention of cavities, but is it true that chewing gum can also reduce the appearance of a double chin or tighten the skin? Let’s investigate what the science says.

Is it true that chewing gum strengthens our jaw muscles?

There are published studies that conclude gum chewing does in fact improve chewing performance ^[1], but these studies showed the most improvement was seen in those with a certain facial profile and bone structure. The reason for this is that individuals with a longer face are subject to a lower level of bite force leading to a chewing deficiency ^[1]. Chewing is a response to a functional need so for these individuals, chewing gum can strengthen muscles that will combat their chewing deficiency. However, this applies to a slim percentage of the population. For most, the masticatory response is sufficient, and chewing gum won’t have much of an impact on their jaw muscles or bite.

Can chewing gum result in the appearance of a double chin? Or tighten the skin?

If you tighten your muscles by working them out, can you slim down a double chin by working out your jaw muscles? Not exactly. The most common cause of a double chin is excess fat and spot reduction, or working out a specific muscle to tone it, has been debunked in many studies ^[2]. If you want to lose fat in a specific area, you must decrease your overall body fat. Therefore, weight loss will be the most effective way to reduce the appearance of a double chin. Something else to consider is that with the increased usage of electronic devices today, many find they have a “tech neck” from looking down at a screen all day. Neck exercises help with posture, and this may lessen the look of a double chin as well.

Can chewing gum be a bad thing?

While chewing gum may not reduce chin fat or give you stronger jaw muscles, it can help increase salivary flow for those with a dry mouth and if it has xylitol, it can help prevent cavities ^[3]. However, gum should not be chewed excessively because overworking the jaw muscles can lead to muscle fatigue, jaw joint pain, and inflammation. Additionally, if people clench and grind their teeth at night, their jaw pain can be exacerbated by chewing gum as the muscles are then working overtime day and night. If you do decide to chew gum during the day, be sure it’s sugar-free. If you’re chewing on sugary gum all day, not only will it be stressful on your jaw, but it could also lead to cavities.

In summation, chewing gum will not tighten your jaw muscles or reduce the appearance of a double chin. However, if you chew gum with beneficial ingredients like xylitol, you can increase salivary flow and prevent cavities.

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.

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Nayak, P. A., Nayak, U. A., & Khandelwal, V. (2014). The effect of xylitol on dental caries and oral flora. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dentistry, 6, 89–94. https://doi.org/10.2147/CCIDE.S55761
Ramírez-Campillo, R., Andrade, D. C., Campos-Jara, C., Henríquez-Olguín, C., Alvarez-Lepín, C., & Izquierdo, M. (2013). Regional fat changes induced by localized muscle endurance resistance training. Journal of strength and conditioning research, 27(8), 2219–2224. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0b013e31827e8681
Shirai, M., Kawai, N., Hichijo, N., Watanabe, M., Mori, H., Mitsui, S. N., Yasue, A., & Tanaka, E. (2018). Effects of gum chewing exercise on maximum bite force according to facial morphology. Clinical and experimental dental research, 4(2), 48–51. https://doi.org/10.1002/cre2.102

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About tooth remineralization: can tooth enamel grow back?

Esmy Ornelas — Mon, 29 May 2023 08:20:45 +0000

Enamel is the hardest material in the body but it is susceptible to erosion with repeated exposure to acid and other damage. Find out what you can do to strengthen your enamel now!

Tooth enamel, the outside layer of your tooth, is the hardest, most mineralized substance in your body ^[1]. It’s even harder than bone! However, it is still susceptible to wear as the teeth take an incredible amount of force each day with chewing, clenching, and for many patients, grinding. Enamel is constantly undergoing a process of remineralization and demineralization. Let’s discuss what this means for oral health.

What is enamel and what is it made of?

Enamel is comprised of 95% minerals, 4% water, and 1% proteins ^[1]. It makes up the top layer of the teeth and functions to protect the underlying dentin and pulp (nerve) of the tooth. While enamel is incredibly durable, it still needs to be replenished with minerals like calcium and phosphate to keep it strong ^[2]. It can also break down through the process of erosion in which one eats acidic foods, drinks acidic drinks, or has GI issues that cause acid reflux. These acids eat away at the enamel, breaking it down and exposing underlying tooth structures. While not visible, the enamel is constantly undergoing a process of remineralization and demineralization.

What is enamel remineralization?

Enamel needs its minerals replenished as they are constantly depleted through eating and drinking (especially acidic foods). This process of mineral depletion is known as enamel demineralization ^[2], and when this happens, the enamel is weakened and susceptible to decay. The oral cavity’s defense mechanism is enamel remineralization, in which the body takes calcium and phosphate from the saliva and puts these minerals back into the enamel ^[3]. This is an ongoing process as the enamel loses and replenishes minerals throughout the day with eating and drinking.

What products are good for enamel remineralization?

For the saliva to be able to put calcium and phosphate back into the enamel, it’s going to need somewhere to get it! The first source is saliva, which is why it’s important to eat a diet rich in vitamins and minerals. However, if someone has xerostomia (dry mouth) or is especially susceptible to tooth decay, there are some other ways to remineralize enamel. The first is a fluoride varnish treatment which is done in the dental office and promotes enamel remineralization as well as protects the tooth against hot and cold sensitivity. An oral probiotic is the second as a balanced oral microbiome will reduce the acidity of the pH, reducing enamel demineralization. Finally, good home care will promote remineralization as decreasing plaque biofilm will reduce places for bacteria to populate. Once enamel starts to demineralize, oral pathogens sweep in to take advantage ^[3]. If there is no plaque biofilm or acids for it to cling onto, there’s less of a chance they will cause decay.

Teeth are incredibly resilient but still need nourishment to fight decay and withstand daily forces. Nutrition, proper home care, and maintaining a healthy oral microbiome go a long way in maintaining strong enamel.

Esmy Ornelas

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Abou Neel, E. A., Aljabo, A., Strange, A., Ibrahim, S., Coathup, M., Young, A. M., Bozec, L., & Mudera, V. (2016). Demineralization-remineralization dynamics in teeth and bone. International journal of nanomedicine, 11, 4743–4763. https://doi.org/10.2147/IJN.S107624
Arifa, M. K., Ephraim, R., & Rajamani, T. (2019). Recent Advances in Dental Hard Tissue Remineralization: A Review of Literature. International journal of clinical pediatric dentistry, 12(2), 139–144. https://doi.org/10.5005/jp-journals-10005-1603
Lacruz, R. S., Habelitz, S., Wright, J. T., & Paine, M. L. (2017). Dental Enamel Formation and Implications for Oral Health and Disease. Physiological reviews, 97(3), 939–993. https://doi.org/10.1152/physrev.00030.2016

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Answers to the 4 most commonly asked questions about cavities

Rachel Stroble — Mon, 22 May 2023 06:51:58 +0000

Most of us have had a cavity at some point. Maybe it required a filling, maybe it didn’t. But why? Find out how cavities develop, when they really need treatment, and how to prevent them in the future!

What are cavities?

Cavities are also called dental decay or dental caries. They are caused by bad bacteria and an acidic oral environment ^[3]. Additionally, frequent exposure to sugary foods and drinks increases the risk of cavities. In the early stages of a cavity, it may appear white and chalky if it is in an easily visible area. Next, cavities may appear brown, and then black. Over time, cavities appear as a hole in the tooth. However, even if you do not see a hole in your tooth, you could have a substantial cavity! Sometimes, they start small and burrow under the enamel, causing large amounts of damage.

Do cavities always hurt?

Teeth are made of three main layers. The enamel, or the outer surface of the tooth, is the hardest substance in your body. The next layer is dentin, a slightly softer layer. The third layer is the pulp, or the nerve and blood supply of the tooth. When cavities are just beginning in the enamel, you probably won’t feel pain ^[1]. Once they progress into the dentin, you may start to have tooth sensitivity to cold or sweets. By the time most people have pain, the cavity has progressed all the way into the pulp of the tooth! If your cavity is this advanced, you will probably need more complex dental treatment. It’s also important to know that there are other dental conditions that can cause pain, so be sure to see a dentist if your mouth is hurting.

How do I know if I need a filling?

Regular preventive dental visits are important to protect your dental and whole-body health ^[4]^[5]! During the earliest stages of dental decay, your dental healthcare professional is your best asset in identifying cavities. X-rays and special magnification eyewear are two of the ways your dental team can detect cavities when they are still very small. During this stage, simpler treatment may be possible to repair the damage. If you have noticed that you have a hole in your tooth, you need dental care! A filling or other treatment may be recommended. The earlier you catch dental decay, the more conservative your dentist will be able to be. Depending on how advanced your cavity is, you may need something more in-depth, such as a crown or root canal.

What can I do to prevent cavities in the future?

In addition to seeing your dental team two to four times annually, depending on your oral condition, one of the best things you can do at home to prevent cavities is to brush your teeth twice per day for two minutes each time and to clean in between the teeth with floss or other methods at least once per day. Also, toothpaste and mouthwash with fluoride help prevent cavities by strengthening the teeth ^[2]. Be sure to read the instructions on your dental products to be sure you are getting the maximum benefit from them!

Rachel Stroble

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Boyd, L. D., Mallonee, L. F., Wyche, C. J., Halaris, J. F., (2021). Wilkins’ Clinical practice of the dental hygienist. Jones and Bartlett Learning
Horst, J. A., Tanzer, J. M., & Milgrom, P. M. (2018). Fluorides and Other Preventive Strategies for Tooth Decay. Dental clinics of North America, 62(2), 207–234. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cden.2017.11.003
Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (2020, February 27). Tooth decay: Overview. National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279514/
Little, J. W., Miller, C. S., Rhodus, N. L., & Little, J. W. (2018). Little and Falace’s dental management of the medically compromised patient (Ninth edition.). Elsevier.
Maurer, K., Rahming, S., & Prvulovic, D. (2018). Dental health in advanced age and Alzheimer’s disease: A possible link with bacterial toxins entering the brain? Psychiatry Research.

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How your diet can soothe dry mouth and reduce cavities

Esmy Ornelas — Mon, 15 May 2023 12:43:02 +0000

1 in 4 people have dry mouth which causes discomfort & tooth decay. A healthy diet can actually support salivary flow, lessening the risk of cavities – find out more.

Xerostomia aka dry mouth affects 1 in 4 people ^[1]. Xerostomia can be caused by a wide range of things like medications, oral cancer, diabetes, and other systemic conditions ^[2]. While there is no cure for Xerostomia, there are things one can do to make it less uncomfortable, starting with the foods they eat.

Why is saliva important?

Dry mouth is a condition caused by decreased salivary flow. While the average person probably doesn’t spend too much time thinking about their saliva, they produce about 0.5 and 1.5 liters of saliva per day ^[3]. Saliva serves many purposes. It lubricates the oral cavity and tissues, consistently cleans bacteria off the teeth, contains buffers that neutralize an acidic Ph, and contains enzymes that are crucial for digestion and nutrient absorption ^[4].

How does dry mouth affect the oral cavity?

When salivary flow is decreased, the oral cavity is impacted significantly. For one, there is an increased susceptibility to cavities because plaque is not removed from the teeth. This is especially problematic in areas that are neglected during brushing like the gum line and the backside of the molars. Plaque is sticky and acts as a food trap. If someone consumes a lot of simple, white carbohydrates and drinks acidic beverages like energy drinks or soda, the pH of the oral cavity becomes acidic. This combination of plaque and acid creates an ideal environment for bacterial growth leading to cavities. A decrease in saliva also affects speech and swallowing as there is no lubrication of the mouth or tongue.

What foods support saliva production?

There is no cure for xerostomia but a few tweaks to the diet can make it more tolerable and decrease the susceptibility to cavities. For starters… less sugar and acidic foods. The truth is no one needs sugary foods or acidic beverages in their diet, but this is especially true for those with dry mouths. Crunchy foods like apples and carrots stimulate saliva flow and the mechanical action of chewing these crispy foods also helps clean teeth, especially the chewing surfaces which are common food traps. Foods with less sodium are also good choices as salt can irritate dry tissues. Hydrating foods like cucumbers and watermelon are soothing to a dry mouth and plain, unsweetened yogurt can help balance an acidic oral pH. In between meals, a sugar-free mint or gum can help stimulate salivary flow. Mints or gum with xylitol is a great option. Xylitol is a plant derivative that inhibits cavity-causing bacteria and promotes the remineralization of tooth enamel ^[5]. It tastes sweet but has no sugar making it a great option for those with a sweet tooth.

There are small changes one can incorporate to make their dry mouth more tolerable. Most of these are simple and require little effort but make a world of difference.

Esmy Ornelas

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Agostini, B. A., Cericato, G. O., Silveira, E. R. D., Nascimento, G. G., Costa, F. D. S., Thomson, W. M., & Demarco, F. F. (2018). How Common is Dry Mouth? Systematic Review and Meta-Regression Analysis of Prevalence Estimates. Brazilian dental journal, 29(6), 606–618. https://doi.org/10.1590/0103-6440201802302
Lorgulescu G. (2009). Saliva between normal and pathological. Important factors in determining systemic and oral health. Journal of medicine and life, 2(3), 303–307. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC50 52503/
Nayak, P. A., Nayak, U. A., & Khandelwal, V. (2014). The effect of xylitol on dental caries and oral flora. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dentistry, 6, 89–94. https://doi.org/10.2147/CCIDE.S55761
Tiwari M. (2011). Science behind human saliva. Journal of natural science, biology, and medicine, 2(1), 53–58. https://doi.org/10.4103/0976-9668.82322
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Dry mouth. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/dry-mouth

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