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Bad Breath
Daily
brushing and flossing helps to prevent the buildup of food particles, plaque and
bacteria in your mouth. Food particles left in the mouth deteriorate and cause
bad breath. While certain foods, such as garlic and sea foods may cause
temporary bad breath, consistent bad breath may be as sign of gum disease or
another dental problem.
Gum Disease
Gum, or
periodontal disease can cause inflammation, tooth loss, and bone damage. Gum
disease begins with a sticky film of bacteria called plaque. Gum in the early
stage of disease, or gingivitis, can bleed easily and become red and swollen. As
the disease progresses to periodontitis, teeth may fall out or need to be
removed by a dentist like Dr. Shilpi Sawant, D.D.S. Gum disease is highly
preventable and can usually be avoided by daily brushing and flossing. One
indicator of gum disease is consistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth.
Sensitive Teeth
Your
teeth expand and contract in reaction to changes in the temperature. Hot and
cold food and beverages can cause pain or irritation to people with sensitive
teeth. Over time, tooth enamel can be worn down, gums may recede or teeth may
develop microscopic cranks, exposing the interior or the tooth and irritating
nerve endings. Just breathing cold air can be painful for those with extremely
sensitive teeth.
EDUCATIONAL FACT
What does a
professional cleaning do that I can’t do for myself?
A
prophylaxis is a professional cleaning procedure that can be done only by a
dentist or hygienist. The prophylaxis not only helps prevent gum disease, but
also improves the appearance of your teeth by making them look clean and bright.
A prophylaxis is usually performed in two steps. Instruments called scalers are
used to remove calculus from teeth above and below the gum line. Then polishing
with a special paste, by means of a motorized instrument, removes the remaining
plaque and surface stains caused by various foods, beverages, tobacco, etc. A
polished tooth surface makes it more difficult for plaque and debris to
accumulate.
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You can help improve your oral hygiene by making plaque control part of your
daily routine. Proper brushing helps remove plaque from the outer, inner and
chewing surfaces of your teeth. Flossing thoroughly helps remove plaque and
debris form between the teeth, especially in hard-to-reach areas at and slightly
under the gum line.
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Tooth Decay
Caries, or tooth decay, is a preventable disease. While caries might not
endanger your life, they may negatively impact your quality of life.
When your teeth and gums are consistently exposed to large amounts
of starches and sugars, acids may form that begin to eat away at tooth
enamel. Carbohydrate-rich foods such as candy, cookies, soft drinks, and
even fruit juices leave deposits on your teeth. Those deposits bond with
the bacteria that normally survives in your mouth and form plaque. The
combination of deposits and plaque can damage the mineral structure of
teeth, with tooth decay resulting.
Canker Sores
Canker sores (aphithous ulcers) are small sores inside the mouth that
often recur. Generally lasting one or two weeks, the duration of canker
sores can be reduced by the use of antimicrobial mouthwashes or topical
solutions. The canker sore has a white or gray base surrounded by a red
border.
Orthodontic Problems
A
bite that does not meet properly (a malocclusion) can be inherited, or
some types may be acquired. Some causes of malocclusion include missing or
extra teeth, crowded teeth, or misaligned jaws. Accidents or developmental
issues, such as finger or thumb sucking over an extended period of time,
may cause malocclusion.
EDUCATIONAL FACT
Why do I need a
professional cleaning?
Professional cleaning removes plaque, calculus (tartar), and stain from
your teeth. The cleaning is done by a dental professional in the dental
office and we provide education in proper care of the teeth and gums.
Don't
let these terrible dental problems happen to You! We can help you improve
your oral hygiene, but you have to take the first step, and that is to
call us for your personal dental evaluation.
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We accept most insurances!
For questions, call (408) 942-0469
Our Dentist at Comfort Dental Care
is waiting to hear from you!
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