Read Label Before Purchasing Mouthwash

Posted on May 08, 2015 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Mouthwash is a common component of many oral hygiene routines at home. For many patients, we recommend certain mouthwashes for their ability to kill oral bacteria, add fluoride, and treat particular mouth sores. Too, some mouthwashes are advised following extraction of teeth to curtail bacteria in areas where brushing must be postponed.

While many people assume mouthwash is a beneficial addition to brushing and flossing, not all are recommended by our office. Some mouthwashes contain alcohol, which dries out oral tissues. Even though alcohol kills oral bacteria, it also serves as a drying agent. This actually increases your risk for cavities and bad breath since alcohol decreases saliva flow.

Saliva is the mouth’s natural cleanser, keeping oral tissues moist and moving bacteria (and food particles that cause bacterial growth) out of the mouth. Some medications, smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages can also lead to dry mouth.

Additionally, it is suspected that regular use of mouthwash containing alcohol can lead to dental erosion.

Mouthwashes that contain alcohol have also come under fire for increasing the risk of oral cancer. Although these findings are still in research stages, it is suspected that alcohol becomes a carcinogen in the mouth, which is a cancer causing agent. Researchers have found that oral cancer risk is five times higher for those using alcohol-containing mouthwashes, even if they are non-smokers.

Like any product, always read the label of mouthwash before purchasing. Look for alcohol-free types and those with fluoride additives. Use after brushing and flossing and practice a gargling action to get the mouthwash to the back of your mouth. Since the back of your tongue harbors more oral bacteria than the front, consider using a tongue scraper prior to mouthwash. This loosens oral bacteria that are embedded in the tongue’s surface. You can also brush your tongue with your toothbrush following teeth brushing.

Remember, any mouthwash use is an addition to brushing and flossing, never as a replacement. However, certain mouthwashes can help keep your breath fresher, decrease your risk for cavities and support your oral health overall. Swish away!

Mouth Sore? Could Be A Canker Sore.

Posted on Apr 26, 2015 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Because of the devastating statistics associated with oral cancer, any sore or unusual spot in the mouth should be monitored carefully. However, some sores that occur inside the mouth can be canker sores.

A canker sore is a painful spot that appears on the tongue, inside of cheek or on the soft palate. Canker sores are white or gray circles with a red outline. They may begin with a tingling or burning sensation before the sore appears.

While stress or tissue injury is often suspected to be the reason canker sores arise, their exact cause is actually unknown. Tissue damage can occur from things like wearing braces, biting the inside of the cheek or a tooth that cuts into tender oral tissue. Citrus or acidic fruits and vegetables can also be a possible cause of canker sores.

Canker sores may also be caused by a compromised immune system, B vitamin or iron deficiency, or diseases such as Crohn’s disease or celiac disease.

Fortunately, a canker sore doesn’t last long with discomfort subsiding in just a few days. They typically heal completely in less than two weeks. To speed healing, a prescription mouth rinse or ointment can be provided. Discomfort can also be lessened by some over-the-counter medications.

For people who have reoccurring canker sores, they should avoid citrus, spicy or acidic foods. Using a soft-bristled tooth brush is also advised.

A Periodontist specializes in treating gum tissues and should be contacted when canker sores seem unusually large, are multiplying or last longer than two weeks. Also, see a Periodontist when canker sore pain becomes extreme or is accompanied by a high fever. Call (828) 274-9440 for prompt attention.

Gloomy Stats On America’s Sugary Smiles

Posted on Apr 15, 2015 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

On a worldwide scale, what is one of the most common diseases?

You may be surprised to learn that the answer is tooth decay. When researchers from the University College London and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine studied public health records from around the world, they found that the United States is far too sugary.

Almost 92% of American adults have experienced cavities. Compare this to Nigeria, where their diet contains almost no sugar. The study found that only 2% of the population had tooth decay.

Although fingers point at sugar as the villain, it’s actually how sugar reacts in the mouth that sets the destructive process into motion. When we consume sugar, it combines with saliva and bacteria in the mouth. Although all foods and beverages activate an acid attack in the mouth, sugar is the ‘perfect food’ for oral bacteria. These acids cause decay to teeth to begin.

Yet, the destruction doesn’t stop with your teeth. As oral bacteria reproduce and accumulate, the gums become inflamed. This is the initial stage of gum disease, which is the nation’s leading cause of tooth loss.

American diets are saturated in sugar. Foods and beverages are laden with it and sugary consumables are typically easy to access. Everywhere you turn, from vending machines to fast food establishments to nearly every check-out line, candy bars, gum and sodas are within arm’s reach.

The World Health Organization recommends that a person’s total calories in a day should consist of no more than 5% from sugar. For most, sugar is not an easy substance to delete or reduce in daily diets. Why? Because sugar is addictive. MRI scans have shown that sugar activates the same brain regions as are activated during cocaine use. It’s also been found that the more sugar you consume, the more you need since you build up a tolerance. This is a symptom of substance dependence.

Want to kick the sugar habit? There are numerous books and online sources that guide you through weaning yourself off of sugar. And, going cold turkey isn’t always the best way. Switching to honey, an actual food that the body processes without creating a ‘high,’ is a good way to begin.

While fluoride has helped, on its own, it is insufficient to overcome the continual bacterial onslaught from American sugar consumption. Your smile is more important than sugary indulgences. As a matter of fact, your entire body would operate better without sugar.

Take a stance that sugar will not ruin your smile (or the smiles of your family members)! Every habit takes time to break so allow 2-3 months to ease off of sugar altogether. Until then (and always), floss daily, brush twice a day (for 2 minutes each time), drink lots of water and be committed to your 6-month dental cleanings and check-ups.

Call (828) 274-9440 to get your mouth in healthy shape!

Smile Your Way To A Healthier Heart

Posted on Apr 13, 2015 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Want a healthy heart? Start with your smile!

There are a number of studies that suggest that oral health and gum disease are related to serious conditions like heart disease.

The link between periodontal (gum) disease and heart disease hasn’t been pinpointed, however, there is strong evidence that the two do, indeed, have a connection. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, people with gum disease are nearly twice as likely to have heart disease. One study found that the presence of common oral problems such as gingivitis, cavities and missing teeth, were as good at predicting heart disease as cholesterol levels.

The culprit seems to lie in the way oral bacteria can trigger inflammatory reactions elsewhere in the body. It begins when the bacteria of gum disease enters the bloodstream through gum tissues weakened by gum disease.

Inflammation in the body is a normal, healthy reaction, to an extent. For example, when you cut yourself, pro-inflammatory hormones in the body recruit white blood cells to battle infection and damaged tissue. Normal inflammation of pain, redness, and swelling are indications that your immune system is acting appropriately. As healing progresses, the inflammation subsides.

However, when inflammation is turned on and remains that way, it is like being on fire from the inside out. Symptoms of inflammation that don’t recede mean your immune system is in continual fighting mode. What began as a healthy reaction to protect your body is now stuck in the ‘on’ position. The inflammation has now gone from a healthy reaction to a damaging presence.

Precisely how oral bacteria triggers an inflammatory response is still under the microscope. Until more is known, take every measure to ensure your oral health is excellent. Brush and floss, eat a healthy diet, drink lots of water, have dental check-ups and cleanings every six months, and tend to oral problems promptly, such as crowning cracked teeth or repairing cavities.

Think of your mouth as the opening to your entire body, because it is! Make a healthy smile a priority to reduce your risk of chronic inflammation in the body so your smile goes all the way to your heart!

Call (828) 274-9440 if you have not had regular dental care and wish to develop a ‘clean slate’ for lasting oral wellness! Your smile and your heart will thank you!