What Is the Most Effective Treatment for Halitosis or Bad Breath?

What Is the Most Effective Treatment for Halitosis or Bad Breath?

 

Dealing with bad breath, scientifically known as halitosis, can be an embarrassing experience. It can impact social interactions and lead to self-consciousness, but fear not! There are effective treatments available. This blog dives deep into the treatment for halitosis or bad breath, exploring causes, remedies, and expert recommendations from your local dentist.

What Is Halitosis?

Halitosis is more than just bad breath; it’s a condition that can indicate underlying dental issues or other health problems. While everyone experiences bad breath occasionally, persistent halitosis can be a sign of bacteria build-up, poor dental hygiene, or even health issues like gastrointestinal problems or respiratory infections.

Causes of Bad Breath

Understanding the causes of bad breath is crucial in determining the most effective treatment for halitosis or bad breath. Here are some common culprits:

  1. Poor Oral Hygiene: Neglecting to brush and floss your teeth allows food particles to remain in your mouth, leading to bacteria growth. These bacteria produce sulfur compounds that cause bad odors.
  2. Food Choices: Certain foods, like garlic, onions, and spicy dishes, can contribute to bad breath. Their odors linger until they are fully digested and metabolized.
  3. Dry Mouth: Saliva helps wash away food particles and bacteria. A dry mouth can be caused by various factors, including dehydration, certain medications, and medical conditions, leading to bad breath.
  4. Dental Issues: Gum disease, cavities, and other dental problems can also contribute to halitosis. These conditions create environments for bacteria to thrive.
  5. Smoking and Tobacco Products: Smoking not only leaves a distinct odor but also contributes to dry mouth and gum disease, both of which can worsen bad breath.

Home Remedies for Bad Breath

Before diving into professional treatments, many individuals turn to home remedies for bad breath. While these remedies can be effective for mild cases, they may not address the root cause of persistent halitosis. Here are some popular home remedies to consider:

  1. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps keep your mouth moist, reducing the chances of bacteria growth. Staying hydrated also helps flush out food particles.
  2. Maintain Oral Hygiene: Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily is vital. Don’t forget to brush your tongue, as bacteria can accumulate there too!
  3. Use Mouthwash: A good mouthwash can help eliminate bacteria and freshen your breath. Look for mouthwashes that contain antibacterial properties.
  4. Chew Sugar-Free Gum: Chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria. Opt for sugar-free varieties to avoid further dental issues.
  5. Eat Fresh Herbs: Chewing on fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro can help neutralize odors. These herbs contain natural antibacterial properties that can combat bad breath.
  6. Limit Odorous Foods: Reducing the intake of foods like garlic and onions can help manage bad breath. If you consume them, consider pairing them with crunchy vegetables like carrots or celery.

Effective Treatments for Halitosis or Bad Breath

While home remedies can help, it’s important to consult a dentist in Baymeadows if bad breath persists. Here are some effective treatments your dentist might recommend:

1. Professional Dental Cleanings

Regular dental cleanings are essential in maintaining oral health and preventing halitosis. During these visits, your dentist will remove plaque and tartar buildup that you might miss at home. This thorough cleaning helps eliminate bacteria that cause bad breath.

2. Dental Treatments for Underlying Conditions

If your bad breath is caused by dental issues, treating those conditions is vital. Here are a few common treatments:

  • Cavity Treatment: If cavities are present, your dentist will fill them to prevent further decay and eliminate the source of bad odors.
  • Gum Disease Treatment: If gum disease is diagnosed, treatments may include deep cleaning (scaling and root planing), antibiotics, or even surgical procedures in severe cases.

3. Prescription Mouthwashes

For persistent bad breath, your dentist may prescribe specialized mouthwashes. These mouthwashes often contain antimicrobial agents that target bacteria responsible for halitosis. They can provide longer-lasting relief compared to over-the-counter options.

4. Dry Mouth Solutions

If dry mouth is a contributing factor to your halitosis, your dentist can recommend treatments to increase saliva production. This may include prescription saliva substitutes, oral rinses, or medications to stimulate saliva flow.

5. Lifestyle Changes

In some cases, lifestyle changes can significantly impact bad breath. Quitting smoking or using tobacco products can improve your breath and overall oral health. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet can help prevent halitosis.

Halitosis, or bad breath, doesn’t have to be a source of embarrassment. With the right treatment for halitosis or bad breath, it’s possible to regain your confidence and enjoy fresh breath. Whether through home remedies, professional dental care, or lifestyle changes, tackling bad breath is a journey that starts with awareness and action. For personalized guidance and effective treatments, consider scheduling a visit with a trusted dentist in Baymeadows today!

FAQs About Halitosis and Its Treatments

Q: How can I tell if I have halitosis?

A: While you may suspect you have bad breath, it’s best to consult a dentist for a professional assessment. You can also try self-assessment methods, such as licking your wrist and smelling it after it dries or asking a trusted friend for their honest opinion.

Q: Are there any specific foods that can help combat halitosis?

A: Yes! Foods like apples, carrots, and celery can help naturally cleanse the mouth and stimulate saliva production. Fresh herbs like mint and parsley can also provide temporary freshness.

Q: How often should I visit my dentist to prevent halitosis?

A: Regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining good oral health. It’s generally recommended to visit your dentist every six months for cleanings and examinations.

Q: Can certain medications cause bad breath?

A: Yes, some medications can contribute to dry mouth, which may lead to halitosis. If you suspect your medication is causing bad breath, consult your doctor for alternatives.

Q: How long does it take to see improvements in bad breath after treatment?

A: The timeline for improvement can vary depending on the underlying cause of your halitosis. Generally, with proper treatment and lifestyle changes, many people notice a significant improvement within a few weeks.

What Are Common Sleep Apnea Risks?

Sleep apnea symptoms and side effects include snoring, spells of respiratory arrest, sleeplessness, and hypersomnia. These symptoms can lead to major concerns with your general health over time, especially if your sleep apnea is not addressed. The following are some of the most prevalent hazards and adverse effects of sleep apnea.

Daytime Sleepiness

Daytime drowsiness is both a symptom and a risk factor for sleep apnea. Daytime drowsiness, also known as hypersomnia, can impair your performance at work or school and leave you exhausted from performing vital duties such as spending time with loved ones, participating in your favorite hobbies, and exercising. If you fall asleep while driving or operating heavy machinery during the day, you are more likely to be involved in an accident.

Heart Problems

Sleep apnea is characterized by an abrupt and repeated decline in blood oxygen levels during sleep. The unusual strain on the heart and cardiovascular system raises blood pressure and increases the risk of cardiac disorders such as irregular heartbeat, heart attack, heart failure, and stroke. Because of the increased risk of surgery, lifetime intensive care, and death, heart issues are one of the most devastating long-term complications of sleep apnea.

Type 2 Diabetes

Blood carbon dioxide levels rise during sleep apnea, producing insulin resistance and excessive blood sugar. Type 2 diabetes alone raises the risk of nerve damage, kidney damage, and arm amputation.

Weakened Immune System

Along with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and efficient stress management, good sleep is essential for keeping a robust immune system. Sleep apnea-related sleep deprivation can weaken and impair the immune system, leaving you more prone to sickness, infections, and diseases.

Mood Disorders

Sleep deprivation may lead to rage and sadness, as well as issues in your interpersonal connections and family life. Sleep deprivation can also raise levels of the stress hormone cortisol in the body, disrupting the balance of the other hormones and neurotransmitters that govern moods, such as serotonin and dopamine. As a result, untreated sleep apnea is frequently associated with the development of mood disorders such as anxiety and depression.

Death

It is believed that heart disease or stroke causes 42% of fatalities in those with sleep apnea, and the risk of mortality is significantly higher if sleep apnea is not treated. Finding the appropriate diagnosis and adequate treatment for sleep apnea today can lower your chance of mortality dramatically.

The Importance of Seeking a Sleep Apnea Diagnosis

Sleep apnea’s irreversible repercussions might jeopardize your health and well-being even more. Finding the appropriate sleep apnea diagnostic will help you move one step closer to figuring out what’s causing your sleep issues and feeling healthier, livelier, and more energetic. The sooner you can prove that you have sleep apnea, the sooner you can start reversing and treating your condition’s health consequences.

Book an appointment with Baymeadows Park Dental for Sleep Apnea Treatment today.

Dentist’s Guide To Replacing Your Missing Teeth

A missing tooth is a regular occurrence that can be caused by several different circumstances. Missing teeth, on the other hand, carry with them their own set of dental problems. They may make you feel uneasy and have a detrimental impact on your voice and diction. This is why it’s so important to replace missing teeth as soon as possible. At Baymeadows Park Dental our dentists will explain why you need to replace your lost teeth.

Reasons To Replace Your Missing Teeth

Tooth loss can be caused by several factors. It could be the result of poor oral hygiene or an accident injury. The best Jacksonville dentist will assist you in understanding the need of replacing your missing teeth.

Helps With Chewing

Our teeth assist us in correctly chewing and swallowing our food, as well as ensuring proper digestion. We lose our capacity to chew effectively when we lose teeth, which can lead to a lack of nourishment in our bodies. Once again, the type of missing tooth has an impact on your ability to chew. You’ll probably have to give up some of your favorite foods. When chewed on, hard foods have the potential to hurt and damage the empty socket. As a result, to avoid these issues, you must replace your missing teeth. Simply visit your dentist in Jacksonville to determine the best method for replacing your missing teeth.

Retains Your Bone Density

The health and strength of your jawbone are dependent on the teeth. Apply pressure to your jawbones as you’re chewing. The increase in bone density is aided by this pressure. Bone atrophy and loss of density can be caused by missing teeth. This could result in serious dental issues in the long run. As a result, if you have missing teeth, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist in Jacksonville right away.

No More Issues Related To Your Chewing

When you lose a tooth, it can affect your ability to communicate. Yes, our teeth have a big influence on our diction and speaking. When teeth are missing, you may notice that certain words have a distinct sound when pronounced. Slurring and increased saliva production may occur during a conversation, resulting in spitting. This could harm your personality. This is why it’s critical to replace your missing teeth as soon as possible.

Improved Confidence

Missing teeth may compromise your appearance. Your facial muscles may sag as a result of missing teeth, giving you the appearance of being older. As a result, most people are embarrassed and avoid social situations. Fixing this issue could boost your self-esteem and improve your personal and professional connections.

No Issues Of Misalignment

As a result of the space caused by tooth loss, your neighboring teeth may shift. When one tooth moves, the others shift as well. Your mouth will fill up as a result, and your smile will become uneven. This can alter your communication and eating habits. It has an impact on your physical appearance and the ability to change it. Brushing and flossing your teeth daily can be difficult if your teeth are crowded. Plaque forms as a result, which is damaging to your tooth health. If you’re having any of these problems, make an appointment with your Jacksonville dentist.

We hope this information helps you to make better decisions regarding your dental health. Get in touch with us at Baymeadows Park Dental if you are looking for the best dental care procedures in Jacksonville, FL.

All You Need To Know About Periodontal Disease Treatment

Periodontal disease is a very common disease that can ultimately lead to tooth loss if left unaddressed. In the initial stages, the symptoms are very mild and there is no pain at all. However, as the disease progresses, you could experience a lot of discomforts. Our dentists at Baymeadows Park Dental have provided all the details about periodontal treatment in this blog.

What Are The Signs & Symptoms Of Periodontal Disease?

Patients of any age can develop periodontal disease, however, adults are the most frequently affected. Since periodontal disease could be painless at first, it’s necessary to be aware of any of the indicators listed below by the best dentist in Jacksonville.

    • Inflamed, puffy, tender, or red gums
    • Gums that bleed, especially after brushing or flossing
    • Noticeable pus around the gums and teeth
    • Loose teeth
    • Foul breath or persistent bad taste inside your mouth
    • Receding gums, that make teeth appear larger than usual
    • Gums that have separated or slid away from the teeth, forming a gum pocket
    • Visible changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite into your food.

Some Methods To Prevent Periodontal Disease

This disease can be avoided by following proper oral hygiene habits such as regular brushing and flossing. Another preventative step is to get periodontal disease treatment from your Jacksonville dentist as soon as the signs are detected. Despite these efforts, periodontal disease continues to be one of the most common causes of tooth loss in adults.

    • Brushing and flossing at least twice a day is recommended.
    • Using antimicrobial mouthwashes or toothpaste will kill the harmful disease-causing bacteria
    • Visiting your dentist in Jacksonville for dental cleanings and check-ups twice a year is highly advisable.

Periodontal Disease Treatment

Periodontal disease can be treated in both surgical and nonsurgical methods.  Though the therapies necessary for earlier stages of periodontal disease are usually less invasive, the severe stages of periodontal disease need oral surgery.

Nonsurgical Treatments include:

    • Scaling– removing plaque and germs from the surface of the tooth and behind the gums with advanced dental tools such as a laser and ultrasonic device.
    • Root Planing- This is the process where your Jacksonville dentist smoothens the tooth root surfaces to prevent bacterial and tartar accumulation. This destroys bacterial by-products that cause swelling and slow down the recovery process.
    • Antibiotics- Using oral and topical antibiotics to manage bacterial infections.

Surgical Treatments include:

    • Flap surgery (Pocket Reduction Surgery)- Creating small incisions in the gum tissue to pull back a portion of the tissue for effective scaling and panning
    • Soft Tissue Grafting- Reinforcing receding gingival tissues. This involves replacing the damaged tissues by grafting tissues from the top palate or a donor.
    • Bone Grafting- This is a procedure that replaces the damaged jawbone surrounding the affected tooth root.
    • Tissue-stimulating Proteins- Applying a protein-containing solution to the damaged tooth root stimulates the formation of healthy gum tissues and bones.
    • Guided Tissue Regeneration- This is a technique for re-growing the bone tissues that have been damaged by bacteria.

We hope this blog has helped you to understand everything you need to know about periodontal disease treatment. Get in touch with us at Baymeadows Park Dental for the best periodontal treatments in Jacksonville, FL.

What you need to know about the cracked tooth?

If a person has pain when chewing food, or if their teeth suddenly become sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, one of their teeth may be fractured. Anyone who feels they have a cracked tooth should visit our dentist as soon as possible. If a cracked tooth is not repaired, it can cause more difficulties, pain, and discomfort over time.

What are the symptoms?

A cracked tooth might not always create symptoms. People frequently have fractured teeth without realizing it. Some cracks are not dangerous and may not require treatment. However, if a person experiences any of the following symptoms, they may have a more extensive sort of crack that necessitates dental treatment:

  • Discomfort while eating, especially when chewing or biting.
  • Gums that are inflamed around the cracked tooth.
  • Teeth that have suddenly developed a sweet tooth sensitivity.
  • Teeth that have developed a sudden sensitivity to hot or cold foods.
  • Recurring pain.
  • Uncertainty in the area of the teeth and gums.

How are cracked teeth repaired?

The type of therapy is determined by the extent of the tooth’s damage. Inquire with our dental staff about the best treatment option for you:

  • Bonding- This is the process of filling a fissure with a plastic resin. It can readily repair a minor chip at the biting edge of the tooth. Bonding might help to restore the form of the teeth.
  • Cosmetic contouring- It is used when the chip is very small. To conceal the crack, the rough edges of the tooth are softened and polished.
  • Veneers- These are appropriate when there is still a good quantity of teeth remaining because they are long-lasting and require the least amount of teeth to be removed first. A veneer is a thin covering of porcelain or acrylic that is designed to cover the front surface of the tooth.
  • Crowns- They are utilized when a tooth is too damaged for a veneer. A crown fits over the remaining portion of the tooth, strengthening it and giving it the appearance of a natural tooth. If the nerve is injured and becomes infected, you may need root canal therapy first. This entails cleaning out the root canal of any infection. To prevent additional infections, the root is cleaned and filled. To provide further support, the tooth would be fitted with a crown.

We hope this blog has helped you understand what fractured teeth are. Many people have fractured teeth at some point in their lives. There are several methods available to save the tooth and your look. While a fracture can be fixed, unlike a broken bone, a cracked tooth can never be completely cured. However, quick treatment increases your chances of saving your tooth and avoiding infection and further harm. So, if you want the best cosmetic dentistry solution for cracked teeth in Jacksonville, FL, come to Baymeadows Park Dental. It is our goal to save all of our patient’s teeth for life. Proper diagnosis and crack therapy will provide care that is both long-lasting and predictable.

How To Better Your Sleep Experience When You Have Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a kind of sleep disorder that causes breathing problems while you’re asleep. Obesity and age play a major role in the advancement of this condition.

There are two primary kinds of sleep apnea—Central and Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). 

Check out its Symptoms:

  • Frequent, loud snoring
  • Sleep interruptions or insomnia 
  • You wake up from sleep with a sore throat or dry mouth
  • Choking, snorting or gasping while asleep  
  • Daytime sleepiness and fatigue
  • Get up several times during the night to urinate
  • Headache

Few home remedies to cure Sleep Apnea and get a better sleep experience:

If you’re suffering from mild cases of sleep apnea, just little changes in your lifestyle may be enough to treat this issue. Follow the given below instructions-

  • Lose weight. Once you lose weight, it easily can open up your throat and minimize your symptoms of sleep apnea.
  • Daily exercise. Do aerobic exercise, or yoga, or resistance training daily to strengthen the muscles in your airways and to breathe better.
  • Sleep on your side. To lie on your back is the worst position if you are suffering from sleep apnea. It makes your jaw, tongue, and other soft tissues drop back toward the throat, and this narrows your air passage. 

But if you lay on your side, it allows you to keep your airway open. You can even lie on your belly. And if you lie on your back, remember to keep your head elevated.

  • Avoid taking alcohol, anti-anxiety medication, and other sedatives, generally before bedtime. When you take all these, it makes your throat muscles relax and disturbs breathing.
  • You can use a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device when you sleep. A CPAP device is a solution that helps to keep your airways open. All you gotta do is wear a mask over your mouth and nose while you go to sleep. This mask is connected to a device that pumps air into your throat through a hose. And it inflates the throat and prevents it from getting collapsed!
  • Surgery may also be a treatment option in few cases. But let your dentist always decide what’s apt for you!

Final Words

Various health hazards can also happen due to sleep apnea—and sometimes even life-threatening. Therefore, you shouldn’t leave it untreated. Health issues caused by sleep apnea include:

  • Excessive sleepiness.
  • Increases mood disorders like depression and anxiety.
  • High blood pressure.
  • Worsens your memory and loss of the ability to concentrate.
  • Triggered headaches.
  • Weight gain.
  • Chances of strokes, irregular heartbeats
  • Metabolic abnormalities.
  • Diabetes.
  • Liver complications.

 

You can get in touch with Baymeadows Park Dental if you want to receive the best treatment for sleep apnea conditions in Jacksonville, FL. Our Dentist in Jacksonville will diagnose the precise extent of the condition and can prescribe a suitable treatment plan. Book an appointment and we’re happy to help you.

DENTAL ABSCESS: SYMPTOMS, TYPES, CAUSES, TREATMENT, AND PREVENTION

 

A dental abscess is a pocket of pus that slowly grows and spreads inside your teeth or gums. It’s a serious dental issue. The abscess emerges from a bacterial infection and normally gets collected in the soft pulp of your tooth. The abscess can occur at many regions of the tooth for plenty of reasons. If you are suffering from a dental abscess, then go through this blog to find out more about this dental problem. 

Symptoms

  • Severe, constant toothache that can radiate to your neck, jawbone, or ear
  • Teeth turn sensitive to hot and cold food or beverages
  • Extreme pain while you chew or bite
  • Gums may bleed
  • Fever
  • Insomnia
  • Face or cheek start to swell
  • The lymph nodes under your jaw or neck become swollen and soft 
  • Foul smell from your mouth 
  • You may face problem while you breathe or swallow

Types

You can find three types of dental abscess:

  • Gingival abscess: This category of abscess occurs just in the gum tissue and does not affect your tooth.
  • Periodontal abscess: This type of abscess develops in the supporting bone tissue structures of your teeth.
  • Periapical abscess: The abscess emerges in the soft pulp of the tooth.

Causes

  • Bad oral health- Bacteria makes its way through a dental cavity or cracks in the tooth and enters the tooth root. This results in swelling and inflammation and gives rise to an abscess.
  • Intake of sugar items too often- When you frequently consume foods/drinks rich in sugar, it can lead to tooth abscess.
  • Dry mouth- A dry mouth can heighten your risk of tooth decay and slowly an abscess may develop.
  • Dental surgery- Complications while undergoing oral surgery can be a major cause as well.
  • Dental trauma- Serious injury to the face can oftentimes cause a dental abscess.
  • Brushing and flossing vigorously- Doing these both oral activities on repetition can also lead to a dental abscess.

Treatments

If you notice any symptoms of a dental abscess, you should visit a dentist without further delay. Treatments may include:

  • Incision: The dentist here makes a tiny cut in the abscess to drain the pus, which consists of bacteria. 
  • Treating a Periapical abscess: A Root canal treatment is performed in this case to take out the abscess. 
  • Treating a Periodontal abscess: For this condition, the dentist drains the abscess and cleans the periodontal pockets thoroughly. 
  • Extraction: If your dentist is unable to save your tooth, then you may undergo a tooth extraction process.
  • Medications: Over the counter, painkillers may minimize the pain temporarily to some extent. Your dentist may also prescribe certain antibiotics.

Prevention

Avoiding decay of tooth is crucial to prevent tooth abscess. So from now on–

  • Always have fluoridated drinking water. And stay hydrated throughout the day.
  • Brush your teeth twice every day using fluoridated toothpaste.
  • Do floss your teeth every day.
  • Wash your mouth with an antiseptic or fluoride mouth rinse. 
  • Change your toothbrush after every 3-4 months, especially when you find the bristles are starting to worn/fray.
  • Always eat something that has nutritional value. And maintain a balanced diet.
  • Try to cut down on sugary stuff and between-meal snacks.
  • See your dentist for your routine check-ups and get your dental cleanings.

Get Help!

Now, if you’re suffering from a dental abscess and looking for a Dentist in Jacksonville, FL, then surely visit us at Baymeadows Park Dental.  We provide you the best treatment and care for all your dental complications. After all, when you smile, we smile!

The Best Ways To Deal With Early Cavities

Well, what exactly is a cavity? A cavity is basically the loss of some section of the tooth towards the process of decay. This is brought about by the action of acids which spoils the crystalline framework of the tooth.

There are early symbols of decay that can be noticed. This affects the outer covering of the tooth – which is the tooth enamel. But the structure can be re-strengthened externally with the help of fluorides or any substance. 

Now, let’s check out how to deal with them!

How to deal with early cavities?

  • Lessen your Sugar Intakes

Sugar plays a magnet for bacteria. Sugar is highly acidic and has a greater tendency to advance into plaque which further causes cavities. If plaque is not eliminated by saliva or brushing, the environment in your mouth becomes acidic. So stay away from sugar items as much as possible.

  • Oil Pulling 

Gargling with oil is an ancient procedure to cure numerous problems. It is also effective for cavities too. You can take coconut oil or mustard oil. Remember to gargle for a minimum of 5 minutes on a daily basis. 

  • Salt Water

Make a mixture of a tablespoon of salt with warm water and rinse your mouth. Follow this every night for better results. Salt has antiseptic and antibacterial properties that destroy cavities. 

  • Vanilla essence 

Shocked, right? Vanilla essence has a small amount of alcohol that acts as a pain reliever. It numbs the portion, attacked by cavities. Well, Vanilla essence has got analgesic and antiseptic properties that can fight cavities. 

  • Clove oil: 

This is a great solution for all your tooth problems! Clove oil truly works well in case of dental ailments. The medicinal properties of Clove decrease the teeth-sensation caused by cavities. Cloves have antimicrobial, antiseptic agents in them. Therefore it helps to cleanse your oral cavity. 

Play your Role to Prevent Tooth Decay:

  •  Brush your teeth twice a day 
  • Use fluoridated toothpaste. 
  • Floss daily at least once.
  • Rinse your mouth with a fluoridated mouthwash. 
  • Have nutritious and balanced meals and cut down your snacks. 
  • Check with your orthodontist about supplemental fluoride usage.
  • Ask your dentist to provide you dental sealants to protect your teeth from decay.
  • Drink fluoridated water. 
  • Visit your dentist regularly for dental cleanings and exams.

Get a little extra help!

Now, if you’re searching for a ‘Dentist near me in Jacksonville, FL, then surely visit our office at Baymeadows Park Dental. Let your Dentist in Jacksonville help you by providing the quality dental care that you need. We are just a call away.

DENTAL X-RAYS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING YOUR DENTIST

 

Dentists always try to give the best possible care to their patients. All thanks to Dental X-Rays.  It can identify issues that cannot be noticed with an oral exam

When your dentist spots your troubles early, it can save you money and avoid discomfort too.

What kinds of issues do X-rays help determine?

In adults, X-rays detect:

  • Decay, mainly tiny parts of decay between teeth.
  • Decay under old fillings.
  • Bone loss in your jaw.
  • Facial bone composition.
  • Alterations in the bone or root canal because of infection.
  • Condition and site of your teeth to make it ready for dental implants, braces, dentures, or any other dental proceeding.
  • An abscess (pus inside the gum or tooth).
  • Dry mouth.
  • Cysts and certain kinds of tumors.
  • Periodontal disease.

In children, X-rays display:

  • If decay develops.
  • If there is sufficient space in the mouth to accommodate all incoming teeth.
  • If wisdom teeth are coming up.
  • If teeth are impacted (unable to emerge through the gums).

Types of dental X-rays

There are two kinds of dental X-rays: 

  • Intraoral (the X-ray film is inside your mouth) –Intraoral radiographs give an immense amount of detail. Your dentist can check the condition of your entire tooth–enamel to root.
  • Extraoral (the X-ray film is outside your mouth) – They display dental issues in the jaw and skull and render little details of your tooth.

Intraoral X-rays include:

  1. Bite-wing X-rays – It displays the crown portion of your teeth. Your dentist can spot any signs of decay and gum disease. It also helps during restorations and fillings.
  2. Periapical X-rays- Here only one tooth gets examined. It shows the whole tooth from the crown down to the root.
  3. Occlusal X-rays – Shows almost the full arch of your teeth on either the upper or lower jaw.

Extraoral X-rays include:

  1. Panoramic X-rays- It displays your whole mouth area to spot developing and impacted teeth in the upper or lower jaw. It even helps to diagnose tumors, impaction, cysts, jaw disorders, and bone irregularities.
  2. Cephalometric projections – This shows one full side of the head. It helps orthodontists decide the best teeth-realignment method.
  3. ental Computed (CT) Tomography- It displays your interior structures in 3D to identify troubles in facial bones like cysts, tumors, and fractures.

How often should teeth be X-rayed?

Well, this depends on your medical and dental history and present condition. If you’re a new patient, your dentist may prescribe X-rays for your first dental exam. Some X-rays are taken to monitor the status of your dental health during your regular visits.

Are dental X-rays safe?

The amount of radiation emitted from X-rays is very little. Today, digital X-rays further reduces radiation exposure. However, don’t forget to inform your dentist if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

Now if you’re looking for a Dentist near me in Jacksonville, FL, then surely call us at Baymeadows Park Dental. Your Dentist in Jacksonville always ensures that you keep your teeth healthy for a lifetime.

How Oral Health Can Impact Your Overall Health?

 

Your oral health is more precious than you might even believe! Our mouth is the portal to our entire body! Did you know that your oral health renders indications about your overall health status? Rising evidence has disclosed a firm link between the impacts of chronic oral inflammation and general health.

Find out the link between oral and overall health systems

Like other body parts, your mouth is also loaded with bacteria. But since your mouth is the gateway to your digestive and respiratory tracts, bacteria can cause numerous diseases. This includes –

  • Tooth decay
  • Gum problems 
  • Oral infections 
  • Impair your ability to eat and speak accurately 
  • Bad breath
  • Heart diseases and so on 

Few bacteria in your mouth can be even pulled into your lungs. This in fact, causes pneumonia and other respiratory troubles.

Usually, the body’s natural defenses and proper oral hygiene, keep bacteria under control. Saliva washes away food particles and neutralizes acids developed by bacteria in the mouth. This actually helps to shield you from microbes that grow and causes disease.

Studies reveal that oral bacteria and the inflammation due to gum issue (periodontitis) might play a bigger role in certain diseases. It can also spring problems during pregnancy and birth complications! Diseases, for example- diabetes and HIV/AIDS, can lessen the body’s resistance to infection. This can lead to mouth sores and also other major oral health issues.

What are the keys to a good dental regimen?  

  • Brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush twice daily for at least two minutes
  • Using fluoride-containing toothpaste 
  • Flossing once a day 
  • Using a good antibacterial mouthwash 
  • Visiting your dentist every six months for check-ups and dental cleanings 
  • Replacing your toothbrush after every three months or sooner if bristles are worn
  • Maintaining a healthy diet 
  • Limiting your sugar intakes is essential 
  • Quit smoking and alcohol intake 
  • Reduce stress to achieve a healthy and confident smile 

Always remember, when you take care of your oral system it’s an investment in your entire well-being.

How do we take care of your oral health at Baymeadows Park Dental!

Just like we care for our other body parts, maintaining a healthy oral system is a lifelong process. During this pandemic, addressing a patient’s issues is also done virtually at certain times. This helps an individual to freely speak to our Dentist at Baymeadows Park Dental and get suggestions.  In Jacksonville, we take every kind of necessary precautions like practicing social distancing to keep our patients safe in this Covid-19 situation.

Our skilled dentists can perform dental checkups and exams for our patients with confidence. Providing excellent dental care with comfort, at an affordable rate to our patients is our priority.  If you live in the FL area, and you’re looking for a ‘Dentist near me’, contact us at Baymeadows Park Dental, and schedule an appointment today!

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