Diabetes and Oral Care

Anyone with diabetes needs to take extra care of their mouth. This is because people with a poor glycemic control are at a higher risk of developing problems in the mouth. Conversely, people with poor oral health experience problems in controlling their blood glucose levels. To prevent dental problems, you need to take good care of your teeth and gums. Some of the most common dental problems for people with diabetes are:

1. Different types of gum diseases that will eventually lead to paining gums and bleeding gums. 

2. Fungal infections, especially for people who use dentures. 

3. Dry mouth symptoms and impairment of taste. 

Difference between Plaque and Tartar

 Plaque is a thin film of bacteria which constantly keeps forming on all teeth. It is mainly responsible for two common diseases of the mouth, namely tooth decay and gum disease. Everyone’s saliva has millions of bacteria and these stick to the surface of your teeth and rapidly multiply to form plaque. 

Tartar is also called calculus. It is formed when calcium that is present in the saliva combines with plaque and makes it hard. Once tartar has set in, you will need to visit your oral hygiene provider to get it removed. The best way to prevent build-up of tartar is regular and effective plaque removal. At Smile Concepts, we have a dedicated hygienist to address your regular cleaning and caring requirements. Our dental surgeons will also cater to all your routine check-ups and related procedures. 

Does a Healthy Lifestyle Mean Healthy Teeth?

It is a common misconception that if you have healthy eating habits, exercise regularly and brush frequently, you are assured of a healthy set of teeth and gums.

The main issue to consider is how long your teeth are exposed to an acidic environment. Prolonged exposure, such as by eating too much sugar, tends to dissolve the enamel surface of your teeth. When strong acid is continuously present, the natural defence system of your mouth loses its relevance and this leads to rapid tooth wear. This erosion of the enamel on the surface of your teeth will lead to the soft inner part being exposed. In turn, this leads to sensitivity which is a disturbing condition. 

Controlling Dental Erosion

Dental erosion is the loss of tooth tissue due to exposure to acid. This loss is irreversible. Modern lifestyle and diet has exposed people to high amounts of acid that leads to dental erosion. Here are a few tips to manage and control dental erosion.

1. Drink a lot of water.

2. Replace your carbonated drinks with milk or other non-acidic drinks.

3. Drink quickly or use a straw to reach your drink. 

4. Use a fluoridated toothpaste and a soft toothbrush. 

5. Visit your dentist for regular check ups for early detection of dental erosion. 

Oral Care Products

In this post, we highlight five types of dental care products that you need to use for clean teeth and healthy gums. 

1. Fluoride toothpaste: Saliva is your body’s natural defence against bacteria, but fluoride is also needed. Scientific evidence shows that using a toothpaste containing fluoride twice a day, and regular drinking of water that contains fluoride, provides sufficient protection. Depending on your specific oral condition, your dentist or dental hygienist will advise the levels of fluoride needed in your toothpaste. 

2. Toothbrush: It is necessary to remove plaque everyday from all tooth surfaces. This can be achieved by brushing and flossing your teeth. Plaque is easily removed by using a toothbrush. Depending on your preference, you can use a manual toothbrush or a power toothbrush. 

3. Dental Floss: A dental floss is a useful tool to clean those areas which are hard for a toothbrush to reach. These areas are mainly between the teeth, also known as interdental surfaces. 

4. Mouth Rinses: A mouth rinse provides extra fluoride when there is a risk of higher tooth decay. Mouth rinses are used once or twice daily. 

5. Fluoride Varnish: Your dentist or dental hygienist will apply a thin coating of resin to protect it from tooth decay. The varnish delivers the fluoride directly to the tooth surface to slow down the process of caries formation. This product is used in children or those who have a higher risk of developing caries, such as orthodontic patients. 

At Smile Concepts, we use different products based on the situation and requirements. We have the necessary experience and expertise to tackle all your dental concerns, be it teeth or gums. 

Managing Teeth Sensitivity

Many adults start experiencing sensitivity to cold, hot or sweet food and beverages. Scientific evidence shows that the cause of sensitive teeth is due to an increase in gum recession and toothbrush abrasion. This is because of incorrect brushing techniques. 

Once the necks of the teeth are exposed, they become vulnerable to changes in temperature. Moreover, foods or beverages that are excessively acidic erode the tooth surface and cause dentine hypersensitivity. Regarding of the triggers or the frequency, you should let your dental care provider know immediately in order to ensure appropriate treatment. 

Impact of Dry Mouth on Dental Caries

Dental caries is demineralisation of the tooth surface caused by acids that are produced by bacteria in the mouth. Cavities are formed due to a prolonged loss of minerals such as calcium and phosphate. This loss happens from enamel and dentine. Such acids are washed away by saliva, which is the body’s natural defence against tooth decay. Saliva helps in neutralising acids in the mouth and puts minerals back into your teeth. 

A lack of saliva results in a dry mouth. Eventually, this leads to tooth decay and wear out. Moreover, gum problems also become prevalent without adequate flow of saliva. The most common causes of a dry mouth are smoking, high amounts of caffeine, certain types of medicines and illnesses that affect salivary glands. It is important to note that sugary drinks are to be avoided in order to relieve the symptoms caused by a dry mouth. This will lead to rapid tooth decay and also gum problems such as paining gums. We recommend adequately hydrating your body and your mouth with water. If symptoms persist, talk to your local dentist or your hygienist to understand underlying causes. 

Post-Orthodontic Treatment Care

So you have decided to go ahead with an orthodontic treatment plan with braces to move towards a healthy lifestyle and an improved smile. But you have questions on the outcome of how your teeth and gums will look once your braces come off. Here are a few thoughts: 

1. Braces have tiny spaces where pieces of food and plaque can accumulate. This can cause staining, white spots, tooth decay and gum disease. Thus, it is important to brush and floss your teeth after every meal.

2. Use products designed for braces, (like super floss, interdental brushes, and power toothbrushes. These are specifically manufactured for post-orthodontic treatment use. 

3. Brush with a fluoride toothpaste as necessary.

4. Use an anti-bacterial oral rinse as necessary.

5. Avoid chewing on pens, straws and ice cubes.

6. Avoid biting your nails.

7. Avoid eating hard foods and sticky foods.