Tag: Oral Health

Impacts of Smoking and Vaping on Oral Health

Maintaining good oral health is crucial for overall well-being, Habits like smoking and vaping can be harmful to your teeth and gums. In this blog, we’ll delve into the impacts of smoking and vaping on oral health, highlighting the similarities and differences between these two common habits.

Oral Health Impacts of Smoking

Stained Teeth: One of the most visible effects of smoking is yellowing or staining of teeth due to the tar and nicotine in tobacco.

Bad Breath: Smoking can cause chronic bad breath (halitosis) due to the presence of chemicals that linger in the mouth and lungs.

Gum Disease: Smoking weakens the immune system and limits the blood flow, making smokers more susceptible to gum disease (periodontitis), which can lead to tooth loss.

Delayed Healing: Smoking can interfere with the body’s natural healing process after dental procedures such as tooth extractions or gum surgeries.

Oral Cancer: Smoking is a significant risk factor for various oral cancers such as mouth, throat, and tongue cancer.

Oral Health Impacts of Vaping

Dry Mouth: Vaping can cause dry mouth as the ingredients in vaping liquids can reduce saliva production. Without adequate saliva, your teeth become more vulnerable to cavities.

Gum Irritation: The chemicals in e-cigarettes can irritate the gums, leading to inflammation and potential gum disease.

Increased Bacteria Growth: Some studies suggest that vaping can alter the oral microbiome, leading to increased bacterial growth and potential oral health issues.

Tooth Sensitivity: Vaping liquids often contain acidic components that can erode tooth enamel, increasing tooth sensitivity and risk of cavities.

Oral Thrush: Vaping may disrupt the balance of bacteria in the mouth, increasing the risk of oral infections such as oral thrush.

Common Oral Health Risks of Smoking and Vaping

Increased Risk of Gum Disease: Both smoking and vaping can increase the risk of gum disease due to their effects on the immune system and oral microbiome.

Tooth Decay: The presence of sugars and acids in vaping liquids, along with the tar and nicotine in tobacco smoke, can contribute to tooth decay.

Oral Cancer Risk: While smoking poses a higher risk, vaping is not without risk when it comes to oral cancer, particularly due to the potential for exposure to carcinogens in liquids.

Tips for Maintaining Oral Health

Quit Smoking and Vaping: The most effective way to protect oral health is to quit smoking and vaping altogether.

Regular Dental Checkups: Schedule regular dental checkups to monitor oral health and address any issues promptly.

Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices: To support oral health, eat a balanced diet, limit sugary and acidic foods, and stay hydrated.

Conclusion

Smoking and vaping can have detrimental effects on oral health. While quitting these habits is the best course, practicing good oral hygiene and seeking regular dental care can help mitigate some of the damage. Talk to our Bravo! Dental experts for preserving a healthy smile and a healthy life.

Full Mouth Rehabilitation: A Comprehensive Guide


Full mouth rehabilitation, often referred to as full mouth reconstruction or restoration is a transformative and holistic approach to address various dental issues comprehensively. It involves the systematic restoration of all teeth in both the upper and lower jaws. This procedure goes beyond mere cosmetic enhancements, aiming to restore both the functionality and aesthetics of the entire oral cavity. 

 How do you identify if you need a full mouth rehabilitation? 

Several factors may indicate the need for a full mouth rehabilitation: 

      –   Severe tooth decay or cavities 

      –   Extensive gum disease affecting multiple teeth 

      –   Trauma resulting in significant dental damage 

       –  Congenital disorders affecting oral health 

       –  Long-term neglect leading to multiple dental issues 

       –  Multiple missing teeth 

       –  Cracked, broken, or excessively worn teeth 

       –  Old fillings, crowns, or other dental work that is failing 

        – Genetic conditions such as Ectodermal Dysplasia, Amelogenesis, or   Dentinogenesis Imperfecta  

 What are the steps involved in the treatment process? 

  1. Diagnostic Phase

A thorough diagnostic assessment will be taken first. This typically includes comprehensive dental examination through X-rays and CBCT scans to make impressions for models to analyze bite and alignment. 

  1. Treatment Planning

Based on the diagnostic findings, a personalized treatment plan is devised. This plan may involve a combination of restorative, cosmetic, and surgical procedures.  

  1. Post Rehabilitation Care

After undergoing a transformative full mouth rehabilitation, diligent post-care is essential. Maintain regular dental check-ups, adhere to recommended oral hygiene practices, and follow any specific instructions your dentist provides. Consistent care and a commitment to lifestyle adjustments ensure the longevity and radiance of your revitalized oral health. 

 What are the treatments involved? 

The treatment options involve a personalized approach, meticulously designed to meet each patient’s unique needs to restore health, functionality, and the aesthetics of your smile. Here are the common treatments integrated into full mouth reconstructions: 

  1. Restorative Dentistry

–         Dental Crowns and Bridges: To restore damaged or missing teeth 

–         Dental Fillings: Addressing cavities and decay 

–         Dental Implants: Offering a permanent solution for missing teeth 

–         Denture: An aesthetic solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring oral health 

  1. Orthodontic Interventions

–         Braces or Clear Aligners: Correcting misalignments and malocclusions 

–         Jaw Repositioning: Addressing bite issues for improved functionality 

  1. Periodontal Treatments

–         Scaling and Root Planing: Deep cleaning for gum disease 

–         Gum Grafting: Repairing receding gums 

  1. Cosmetic Dentistry

–         Teeth Whitening: Enhancing the overall aesthetics 

–         Veneers: Covering imperfections and enhancing tooth shape 

 What are the challenges and considerations? 

  1. Time and Commitment

Full Mouth Rehabilitation is a comprehensive process that may take several months to complete. Patients need to commit to multiple appointments and follow post-treatment care diligently. 

  1. Financial Investment

The financial aspect is a significant consideration given the diverse range of procedures involved. Patients should discuss the cost and potential insurance coverage with their dental team. 

 Conclusion 

Full mouth rehabilitation is a great option for individuals facing multiple dental challenges. By addressing both functional and aesthetic aspects, this transformative process rejuvenates smiles and contributes to overall oral health and well-being. Before embarking on this journey, open communication with our dental experts at Bravo! Dental can help you make informed decisions and understand the personalized roadmap to a healthier, more confident smile.

Dispelling 10 Common Myths About Oral Health


Dental hygiene is an important part of overall health, but there are many myths and misconceptions about keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Here are some of the most common dental myths and the truth behind them: 

Myth 1: You only need to brush your teeth after meals. 

Truth: You should brush your teeth before bed and when you wake up, even if you haven’t eaten anything. This helps to remove plaque and bacteria that build up overnight. Brushing day and night with a fluoride toothpaste can cut the risk of tooth decay for children by 50%. 

Myth 2: Flossing is not necessary. 

Truth: Flossing is an essential part of good dental hygiene. It removes plaque and bacteria from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can’t reach. A meta-analysis found that flossing reduced the risk of interproximal caries (cavities between teeth) by 40% compared to brushing alone. Flossing once a day is recommended. 

Myth 3: Pregnant women should not visit the dentist. 

Truth: It is crucial for pregnant women to see the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Study suggests women who did not receive dental care during pregnancy were 15% more likely to experience preterm delivery. Pregnancy can make women more susceptible to gum disease or other complications, so taking extra care of their teeth and gums is vital during this time. 

Myth 4: Baby teeth are not important. 

Truth: Baby teeth are essential for chewing, speaking, and holding space for permanent teeth. It is important to take care of baby teeth and prevent cavities, just as you would with permanent teeth. 

Myth 5: White teeth are healthy teeth. 

Truth: Teeth can become discolored for various reasons, such as smoking, drinking coffee and tea, and aging. While white teeth are often considered more attractive, they are not necessarily healthier than teeth with a natural yellow tint. 

Myth 6: You can fix a cavity with a filling or crown. 

Truth: Fillings and crowns can repair cavities and restore damaged teeth, but they do not prevent future cavities. It is important to continue practicing good dental hygiene to prevent cavities from forming in the first place. 

Myth 7: Wisdom teeth should always be removed. 

Truth: Wisdom teeth do not need to be removed unless they are causing problems, such as crowding, pain, or infection. If you have wisdom teeth, your dentist will monitor them for any signs of trouble and recommend removal if necessary. 

Myth 8: If you don’t have dental insurance, you can’t afford dental care. 

Truth: There are many ways to get affordable dental care, even if you don’t have dental insurance. Many dentists offer payment plans and discounts for patients without insurance. There are also government programs and nonprofit organizations that can help you pay for dental care. 

Myth 9: Dental X-rays are dangerous 

Truth: X-rays are both safe and beneficial for your dental health to identify any posing dental issues before hand. The amount of radiation you are exposed to during a dental x-ray is limited and safe in approved doses, such as during your dentist appointment. ADA states, Dental X-rays contribute as low as 2.5% of the total radiation exposure from medical X-ray procedures. 

Myth 10: You should avoid brushing your teeth if your gums are bleeding 

Truth: Bleeding gums are a sign of inflammation and infection, which can be caused by poor oral hygiene, hormonal changes, medications, or systemic diseases. Brushing your teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste can help reduce the bleeding and prevent further damage to your gums. 

Conclusion 

It is always important to ask and clarify your dental concerns with a professional dentist. We at Bravo! Dental can help you develop a good oral hygiene routine and answer any concerns or doubts regarding your oral health.

Everything you need to know about Dental Implants


A radiant smile can light up a room, but what if your smile isn’t so perfect due to lost or chipped teeth, modern dentistry has paved the way for solutions to restoring teeth to their natural beauty and function. Dental implants are a remarkable option for replacing missing teeth and restoring your natural look. 

What are Dental Implants? 

Dental implants are sophisticated replacements for missing teeth that mimic natural teeth’ look, feel, and function. Comprising a titanium post inserted into the jawbone and a crown customized to match adjacent teeth, implants blend seamlessly with your smile. Their ability to restore oral health and confidence makes them a sought-after choice for individuals with missing teeth. 

Benefits of Dental Implants 

Preserving Bone Health: Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss that commonly occurs after tooth extraction. 

Natural Appearance: Implants replicate the appearance of real teeth, ensuring a harmonious and appealing smile. 

Chewing Easily: With their firm anchorage, implants restore your ability to chew and speak naturally, improving your overall quality of life. 

Durability: Implants are designed to last decades with proper care, making them a long-term investment. 

Improved Oral Hygiene: Implants are easy to clean, promoting good oral hygiene and reducing the risk of gum disease. 

Convenience: Unlike dentures, implants don’t need to be removed for cleaning or soaking, simplifying your daily routine. 

Customized Solutions: Implants can be tailored to your needs, whether you need a single tooth replacement or a complete arch restoration. 

No Decay: Implants are not susceptible to cavities, reducing the need for frequent dental work. 

Support for Adjacent Teeth: Implants prevent neighboring teeth from shifting into gaps, maintaining proper dental alignment. 

No Adhesive or Special Cleaning: Implants don’t require adhesives, pastes, or special cleaning solutions. 

Step-by-Step Procedure  

  1. A thorough oral health examination, including X-rays and scans, will be taken during your initial consultation to determine your need for implants. 
  2. Under local anesthesia, a skilled oral surgeon or periodontist inserts the titanium implant into the jawbone. Over time, the implant bonds with the bone in a process called osseointegration. 
  3. After osseointegration, an abutment is attached to the implant. This connector holds the crown securely in place. 
  4. Impressions of your teeth are taken to create a custom crown that matches your natural teeth in color, shape, and size. Once ready, the crown is affixed to the abutment. 

Aftercare for Dental Implants 

Oral Hygiene: Maintain impeccable oral hygiene through regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups to prevent infections and ensure the longevity of your implants. 

Healthy Lifestyle: Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as they can compromise the success of your dental implants. 

Regular Dental Visits: Schedule routine dental visits to monitor the health of your implants and address any concerns promptly. 

Conclusion:  

You can make an informed decision about this transformative dental treatment by understanding the benefits, procedure, aftercare, and potential risks associated with dental implants. Consult our qualified dental professionals at Bravo! Dental to explore whether dental implants are the right choice for your oral health journey and unlock the potential for a brilliant smile that radiates confidence.

Back to School Dental Tips: Take a Fresh Approach to Oral Care


The school year is just around the corner, and that means it’s time to start thinking about back-to-school preparations. This includes making sure your child’s teeth and gums are healthy and ready for the new year. 

But what if you’re tired of the same old boring oral care routine? What if you want to take a fresh approach to keeping your child’s teeth and gums healthy? 

If so, you’re in luck! Here are a few tips for a totally different back-to-school oral care approach: 

  1. Make it fun.

Let’s face it, brushing and flossing can be boring. So why not make it fun? There are a lot of ways to do this, such as: 

  • Playing games while brushing, such as “I Spy” or “Simon Says.” 
  • Using a fun toothbrush with a character your child loves. 
  • Let your child choose their own toothpaste flavor. 
  • Making brushing a family fun time. 
  1. Make it educational.

Help your child understand why good oral care is essential. Explain how plaque and tartar can build up on teeth and cause cavities. Talk about the importance of flossing to remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth. 

You can also use this opportunity to teach your child about the different parts of the mouth and how they work together. This will help them understand the importance of taking care of their teeth and gums. 

  1. Make it easy.

Make sure your child has everything they need to brush and floss properly. This includes a soft-bristled toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, and floss. You may also want to invest in a water flosser or a sonic toothbrush. 

Also, ensure your child drinks a lot of water throughout the day. Water helps to wash away food particles and plaque, which can help prevent cavities. 

  1. Make it a habit.

The best way to ensure your child brushes and flosses regularly is to make it a habit. This means brushing and flossing at the same time every day, such as after breakfast and before bed. 

You can also set a timer to help your child brush for the recommended two minutes. And don’t forget to praise your child for brushing and flossing properly! 

  1. Make it a family affair.

Show your child that good oral care is important by setting a good example. Brush and floss your teeth regularly in front of your child. This will show them that brushing and flossing is something everyone does, and it will help them develop good oral hygiene habits. 

By following these tips, you can help your child develop a lifelong love of good oral care. And who knows, they might even start to enjoy brushing and flossing! And don’t forget, before sending your kids back to school, get those little pearls a thorough dental clean-up at Bravo! Dental.

The Role of Nutrition in Oral Health


A traditional saying emphasizes how important eating is to your health- “You are what you eat.” A well-balanced diet can give you energy and help you avoid sickness. Many health problems are caused or exacerbated by certain food and beverages. Nutrition is also important for oral health, and eating healthily can make it much easier to maintain healthy teeth. 

A well-balanced diet can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. While regular dental care practices are essential, a well-balanced diet rich in vital nutrients can significantly contribute to oral health. In this blog, we will explore critical nutrients that promote strong teeth and gums, the food to take, and the food to avoid in order to achieve optimal oral health. 

Key Nutrients for Oral Health 

Calcium: Calcium is a vital mineral for strong teeth and jawbones. They maintain teeth enamel and prevent teeth decay. Dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods are excellent sources of calcium. 

Vitamin D: Vitamin D aids calcium absorption and is crucial for dental health. Sun exposure, fatty fish, and fortified dairy products are rich sources of vitamin D. Sufficient vitamin D levels support tooth mineralization and reduce the risk of gum disease. 

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is essential for collagen production, which helps maintain healthy gums. Adequate vitamin C intake promotes gum tissue integrity and reduces the risk of gum bleeding and periodontal disease. 

Phosphorus: Phosphorus is a mineral that works in conjunction with calcium to strengthen teeth and bones. Fish, poultry, nuts, and dairy products are good sources of phosphorus. 

Water: Staying hydrated is vital for maintaining saliva production, which helps protect teeth from decay. Drinking fluoridated water helps in teeth remineralization.  

Ideal Food to Take 

  • Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery help cleanse teeth by stimulating saliva production and removing food particles. 
  • High fiber content food promotes gum health and aids in reducing plaque formation. 
  • Milk, cheese, and yogurt are excellent sources of calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus. 
  • Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with essential nutrients such as calcium, vitamin C, and folic acid, contributing to strong teeth. 
  • Fish, poultry, and tofu are rich in protein which helps in gum health and tissue repair. Their phosphorus level helps protect tooth enamel. 

Food and Habits to Avoid 

  • Limit sugary foods and drinks with the risk of tooth decay and erosion. 
  • Avoid acidic foods and beverages which can erode tooth enamel. 
  • Foods like candies, dried fruits, and chips tend to cling to teeth, leading to plaque formation. 
  • Processed snacks often lack the essential nutrients required for oral health. 
  • Smoking and using tobacco products significantly increase the risk of gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancer. 

Conclusion  

Optimal oral health goes beyond brushing and flossing. A well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients plays a pivotal role in promoting healthy teeth and gums. By incorporating the right food into your diet, you can embrace nutrition as a fundamental pillar of oral care, support a confident and radiant smile for years. If you have any oral health concerns or need further dental suggestions, feel free to contact our oral health experts at Bravo! Dental.

Everything you need to know about Bad Breath


Bad breath, medically known as halitosis, can be discouraging, worry not for studies show it affects about half of the general population.  

Everyone experiences foul breath from time to time, especially after consuming garlic, onions, or other strong foods. However, persistent bad breath (chronic halitosis) could indicate an oral health problem or a disorder affecting another portion of your body. 

Halitosis is a sign of a variety of medical diseases. In other words, it acts as a warning signal from your body. The first step in treating halitosis is determining the source of the problem. 

Causes of Bad Breath  

Poor oral hygiene: It is the most common cause of halitosis. Without proper oral care, such as brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings, hazardous bacteria infiltrate and multiply uncontrollably in your mouth. This can result in various oral health complications, such as halitosis, cavities, and gum disease. 

Food: The breakdown of food particles in and around your teeth can promote the growth of bacteria and generate a bad odor. Certain foods, such as onions, garlic, and spices, can also contribute to bad breath.  

Tobacco: Smoking produces an unpleasant odor in the mouth. Smokers and users of oral tobacco are also more likely to have gum disease, which is another cause of bad breath. 

Dry mouth: Because saliva helps to wash your mouth, halitosis can occur if your body does not produce enough saliva causing a dry mouth and raising your risk of gum disease.  

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): It is a digestive ailment in which stomach acid or fluid spills back into your esophagus, the tube that transports food from your mouth to your stomach, causing bad breath. 

Medications: Some drugs might cause bad breath indirectly by causing dry mouth. Others can be broken down in the body to release compounds that can be inhaled. 

Infections: Bad smell can be caused by surgical wounds following oral surgery, such as tooth extraction, tooth decay, gum disease, or mouth sores. 

Other conditions: Small stones that grow in the tonsils and are covered with microorganisms that produce odor can occasionally cause bad breath. Infections or persistent nose, sinuses, or throat inflammation can cause postnasal drip and bad breath. 

Treatment for Bad Breath 

The underlying source of the problem determines the therapy of bad breath. For example, if bad breath is caused by poor oral hygiene, a dental cleaning and better home oral hygiene will certainly be enough. 

However, if halitosis is a symptom of another problem in your body, the dentist can assist you with accurate diagnosis and treatment. 

The dentist may occasionally recommend special mouth rinses to battle certain bacteria in your mouth. 

Conclusion 

Bad breath is a frequent illness that can lead to low self-esteem. However, it is nothing to be ashamed of. It’s frequently your body’s way of alerting you that things aren’t quite right. The good news is that halitosis or bad breath can typically be eliminated by treating the underlying health condition. If you are facing similar issues, our experts at Bravo! Dental can help you with the right solution that works best for you.

The Tongue & Dental Health Connection


Very often, when we think of oral health, we focus on teeth, but it is imperative to take care of the tongue. The tongue is an important part of the oral cavity and plays a crucial role in our overall oral health. It is responsible for the sense of taste, speech, and the ability to chew and swallow food. However, the tongue is also susceptible to various oral health issues, such as bad breath, tooth decay, and oral cancer. Therefore, understanding the connection between the tongue and oral health is essential for maintaining a healthy mouth. 

The tongue is covered with papillae, which are tiny, bumpy protrusions that contain taste buds. These taste buds are essential for our capacity to taste varied flavors and enjoy food. The papillae, on the other hand, can trap bacteria and debris, resulting in poor breath and other oral health difficulties.  

The tongue is also closely connected to tooth decay. When we eat sugary or starchy foods, the bacteria in our mouth ferment the sugar, producing acid that can erode the enamel on our teeth. This process is called dental caries. The tongue is particularly susceptible to tooth decay because it is in constant contact with the teeth and can trap food particles and bacteria. Regularly visiting the dentist for check-ups and cleanings can help prevent tooth decay. 

Another oral health concern closely connected to the tongue is oral cancer. The tongue is a common site for oral cancer, and it is important to be aware of any changes in the appearance or sensation of the tongue. Signs of oral cancer on the tongue can include a sore that does not heal, a red or white patch, or a lump or thickening on the tongue. Smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, and prolonged exposure to the sun can increase the risk of oral cancer, so it is important to limit these risk factors. 

How to take care of your tongue? 

  • In addition to brushing and flossing, it is important to maintain a healthy diet to keep the tongue and oral cavity healthy.  
  • Include a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to provide the necessary vitamins and minerals to support oral health.  
  • Avoid sugary and starchy foods to prevent tooth decay.  
  • Drink plenty of water to keep the mouth hydrated and remove bacteria and debris. 
  • Avoid smoking, alcohol consumption, and prolonged exposure to the sun. 
  • Scrape the tongue to remove bacteria, mucus, and food particles regularly. 

In conclusion, the tongue is vital for our overall oral health. It is responsible for our sense of taste, speech, and the ability to chew and swallow food. However, if neglected, it can lead to health issues such as bad breath, tooth decay, and oral cancer. Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene, and a healthy diet are all crucial steps in keeping the tongue and oral cavity healthy. For an in-depth understanding of the connection between the tongue and dental health, visit us at Bravo! Dental. 

6 Common Dental Myths and Misconceptions Uncovered

 

A smile that looks good and is healthy might make you feel more confident. But when things go wrong and your dental health is affected, you look for information online or from your friends & family. Unfortunately, there are many myths and misinformation that you come across with the potential to cause more harm than good. It is prudent to unravel those misunderstood concepts beforehand. 

We’ve dispelled the most common misconceptions and dental myths about oral health and care.  

Brushing hard improves oral hygiene. 

One of the most widespread myths regarding dental health is that brushing more vigorously results in a more thorough cleaning of the teeth. But that is wholly untrue. When the tooth is brushed more vigorously but not more thoroughly, the enamel is worn away. More cavities can develop if you clean your teeth too hard for a period of time. 

Gum bleeding during brushing is normal. 

You might see some blood when you brush or floss your teeth and think you cut your gums by brushing too hard or cutting them with the floss. That may be the case, but persistent bleeding is abnormal and may point to a major medical issue. Common issues like gingivitis and periodontitis can result in gum bleeding. 

Sugar causes cavities. 

The bacteria are primarily in charge of creating the acid that eats away the enamel of the tooth. Sugar in the mouth is a favorite food of the bacteria which only aggravates it and is not the main reason for cavities.  

Sensitivity is due to enamel erosion. 

Enamel care is essential, and tooth sensitivity shouldn’t be avoided either. It’s not always true that a tooth’s sensitivity is due to enamel erosion. It alludes to those who may be sensitive to a certain pressure shift or temperature change. The sensitivity has nothing to do with enamel. These widespread dental fallacies should be dispelled. 

Oral issues pertain only to the mouth. 

Many people believe that dental problems are only related to the mouth region. This is not the case, though. The entire body is interconnected with the mouth. So, the body will also be impacted if there is a significant issue in the mouth. Oral health has a direct impact on overall health. Hence, it is crucial to handle oral issues properly. 

No pain, no need for a dentist. 

One of the most widespread and untrue dental myths is this one. Many people wait until they have dental pain before going to the dentist. For routine checks, people should go to the dentist twice a year. The dentist can assist with any prior dental problems. However, a lot of people only visit a dentist when their mouth begins to hurt or feel uncomfortable. So, people shouldn’t believe these myths and misconceptions and instead should take adequate care of their oral health. 

People should avoid believing typical dental myths and misconceptions. Instead, brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing, scraping the tongue, using mouthwash, seeing the dentist for regular examinations, and other practices will help you maintain good dental health. To learn more about good dental health, contact Bravo! Dental and drop a visit to meet our experts. 

Give some special attention to your jaw on this TMJ Awareness Month

It is not only the middle of the fall and the beginning of the holiday season but is also TMJ Awareness Month. Your day-to-day activities speaking, chewing, and singing all depend on your jaw. Yet, this tiny body part is often taken for granted until it begins to ache. At Bravo! Dental, we believe it is our responsibility to inform our patients about TMJ disorder. This blog covers the causes, signs and treatments for TMJ disorder. 

What is TMJ disorder? 

Your jaw acts as an opening door to savor your favorite dishes. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone and skull, which sounds like a sliding hinge. There is a joint on each side of the jaw. Temporomandibular disorders, sometimes known as TMDs refer to TM Joint disorders that includes jaw dysfunction, pain, and discomfort that may interfere with day-to-day activities. Sadly, neglecting TMJ will only worsen it. 

What leads to it? 

The parts of the jawbones that work with the temporomandibular joint are separated by a tiny disk that enables smooth movement of your mouth. When a person has a TMJ condition, the disk is either broken, out of alignment, destroyed by arthritis, or physically injured.

TMJ often results from: 

  • Misaligned jaw. 
  • Clenching and grinding (bruxism). 
  • Injury to the body. 
  • Stress.  
  • Trauma. 
  • Arthritis. 
  • Bad posture.

What are its symptoms? 

The best way to be sure to receive treatment as quickly as possible is to recognize the symptoms of TMJ issues. The most typical signs to be on the lookout for are as follows: 

  • Pain in the jaw, face, back, or neck. 
  • Having a congested or painful ear. 
  • Hearing loss (tinnitus). 
  • Difficulty chewing. 
  • Recurring migraines or headaches. 
  • Lockjaw (jaw stuck open or closed). 
  • Uneven bite numbness/ tingling in the fingers. 
  • Jaw popping or clicking sound. 
  • Teeth clenching and grinding (bruxism). 

What are its treatments? 

Most TMD cases are temporary and go away on their own in a week or so, although this isn’t always the case. Your jaw probably needs treatment if your pain continues, especially if they worsen. The dentist might suggest ice packs, physical therapy, moist heat, medicine, splints, and orthodontics treatments. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), trigger-point injections, or ultrasound therapy will likely be the next options if none of these are effective. Jaw surgery can be used to address extreme situations. 

What are its home remedies? 

The dentist may also advise making some changes to your regular routine in addition to professional therapy to help you manage your pain. Several at-home remedies include:

  • Working to improve your posture. 
  • Avoid eating anything sticky or chewy, such as gum. 
  • Massaging the face often. 
  • Using moist heat and cold alternately to relax facial muscles. 
  • Using night guard to rest your jaws in comfortable position that reduces teeth wear down. 

If you have noticed any of the above signs, don’t keep the dentist in the shadows! Schedule an appointment at Bravo! Dental and tell us your symptoms. We can identify the issue’s root cause and offer suggestions for the best course of action. Before you treat yourself to all the sticky, sweet perks of year-end celebrations, visit us this November for a TMJ checkup.