| Dry Mouth & Its Long-Term Oral Health Problems |
|
|
Saliva performs multiple functions in the mouth. Saliva maintains a neutral pH level, assists in removing food particles, and halts the spread of harmful microorganisms. Dry mouth is a condition where the salivary glands produce less saliva than is typical. The severity of dry-mouth can vary.
Left untreated, dry mouth can cause a variety of short-term as well as long-term oral complications. Most cases of dry mouth can be resolved by drinking more water or by sucking sugar-free candies. Some have also found relief with 'oil-pulling' (1 Tbsp sesame oil or coconut oil swished for 20 (twenty) minutes daily - no, that's not a type-o). Taking several Rx meds is well known to cause dry mouth. And we can't just quit taking our meds. So we manage the dry mouth. Dry mouth that are not remedied by these measures will require professional care to fix.
Severe Complications that are Associated with Dry Mouth
Cut to the chase: dry mouth causes cavities! Dry mouth creates an oral environment that is ideal for harmful microorganisms to thrive and reproduce. This can lead to the formation of plaque and tartar, the onset of tooth decay, and the beginning of gum disease and gingivitis. The rate of cavity formation can spike rapidly. In severe cases we have observed cavities that become so large within 6-months that teeth are lost. The irritated soft tissues in the mouth can form persistent sores. Fungi in the mouth can trigger outbreaks of yeast infections. The difficulties involved in chewing and swallowing can also negatively impact the diet, reducing the amount of nutrients we consume. And dry mouth can complicate or outright prevent the fitting and functionality of dentures.
Call me if you have persistent dry mouth that is not relieved with increased water intake, sugar-free candies, or oil-pulling (or any combination thereof). We'll determine the cause(s) of your dry mouth (if we can) and develop methods to manage it.
-Dr. Jake |
|
|
| Introducing, Paige Holt, RDH |
 We are pleased to welcome to our team, Paige Holt, RDH. Paige is a regular in our office serving your dental hygiene needs on Thursdays each week. Here's a little more from Paige:
"I am a native Oregonian and grew up here in Medford. I am one of several generations of native Oregonians. I’ve been a hygienist for twenty years. I graduated from Oregon Institute of Technology, with my Bachelors in Dental Hygiene, Emphasis in Business and Teaching.
My favorite thing about being a hygienist is the relationship I form with each patient. I pride myself in being very thorough, yet gentle in my treatment and I do what I can to make patients feel comfortable in the dental chair. When I am not at work I enjoy watching movies and sharing activities with my family, friends and my grandkids. I also enjoy Britt music festival, volunteering at Oregon Wine Experience, community activities, cooking Gluten free, baking, gardening, photography, dancing and watching Duck football. As a kid I played piano, sang in choir, enjoyed water sports, volleyball, roller skating and crafts."
We are excited that Paige is a part of our dental team!
-Layerdental Team
|
|
|
|
| Tips for Caring for New Dental Bonding
|
 Dental bonding is a restorative technique that repairs chipped teeth, provides aesthetic adjustment for oddly-shaped teeth, and can even restore cavities. Well one benefit of dental bonding is that the care for them is no different from care for natural teeth.
Simple Steps for Effective Bonding Care
The most effective means of maintaining dental bonding is with standard oral care: brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and rinsing with a fluoridated mouthwash. Dental bondings are done on front teeth to improve appearance. Patients with dental bonding should refrain from incising or chewing on hard foods like pizza crust, french bread, and apples. You can still enjoy these foods, just cut them up and chew with the back teeth. You should also especially avoid chewing on non-consumables such as pens or fingernails. Routine dental appointments to monitor dental bondings is necessary as well.
Call us if you have questions about dental bonding: whether you need help maintaining them or you think you might need some. We can help!
-Layerdental team
|
|
|
| Raw Produce Keep Mouths Healthy |
It is common knowledge that a healthy diet leads to a healthy body. Foods with high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, and beneficial compounds bolster our bodies' functions. In regard to good oral health, raw produce is one of the best types of food.
Benefits of Eating Raw Produce
Firm produce, such as carrots and apples, prompt the generation of saliva, preventing dry mouth and the complications it triggers. Leafy greens are high in calcium, which fortifies enamel, and the nutrients in leafy greens combat harmful bacteria responsible for gum disease. Many fruits and vegetables have high concentrations of vitamin C, which also prevents the spread of harmful microorganisms. Fruits with malic acid can act as natural teeth-whiteners. The textures of some produce, including celery and apples, cause them to dislodge trapped food particles.
|
|
|
