Why breathing out of your nose is better than mouth-breathing

Nasal breathing allows an individual to breathe more slowly and effectively. The nose is designed to filter viruses, bacteria, debris and allergens, says Sabrina Magid-Katz, a New York-based dentist who specializes in sleep dentistry and related sleep disorders. People are finally starting to think about what some ancient cultures have always knownthat breathing in and out through the nose is healthier, says Magid-Katz, referencing the nasal breathing exercises taught in yoga and Tai Chi classes.The nose humidifies the air we breathe, and also increases oxygen to the bloodstream, improves lung function, and decreases stress on the body. The bodys cells are able to get the oxygen they need more efficiently from the bloodstream, allowing the body to function optimally, the muscles to recover faster and the heart to work less hard. Who wouldnt want less stress and inflammation, and more stamina, energy and mental function? she says.On the other hand, mouth breathing causes dry mouth, according to Brian Rotenberg, a head and neck surgeon and a professor of Otolaryngology at Western University in London, Ont. This is because the mouth isnt capable of humidifying air in the same way as the nose. Saliva typically washes bacteria from the mouth when its closed, but it can more easily survive and cause issues when the mouth is open and drypotentially leading to bad breath, gum disease and cavities, he says.Breathing dry air through the mouth can also cause inflammation of the airway and further block it, says Magid-Katz. This creates an airway that is more collapsible, which can lead to Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) a medical condition in which someone stops breathing while theyre sleeping, interrupting their sleep cycle and often decreasing the oxygen in their blood. This condition is associated with other medical conditions including high blood pressure, stroke and diabetes, she says, as well as chronic sleep deprivation or a sense of never feeling truly rested.

What causes mouth breathing?

There are a few different reasons why an individual might be a mouth breather, Magid-Katz says. Some people breathe through their mouth because their nasal passage is blocked as a result of allergies, and others do so due to a structural problem, such as a deviated septum. Mouth breathing often starts when were kids, she says, preventing muscular habits and dental arches from growing to properly support the nasal passage.Enlarged tonsils and adenoidsas well as whats called soft tissue trauma, often caused by snoring can also block the airway, which only further encourages mouth breathing and, in turn, creates a vicious cycle of more trauma and enlargement. Other people breathe through their mouth out of habit, she says. Interestingly, the less they breathe through their nose, the harder it may become.

Signs you might be a mouth breather

If you constantly wake up with an exceptionally dry mouth or lips, or even a sore throat, Rotenberg says theres a good chance youre breathing through your mouth at night. Since some nighttime mouth breathers also breathe through their mouths during the day, you can try looking at photos or observing yourself in the mirror. If your lips are parted or your mouth is hanging open, chances are youre breathing through it, says Magid-Katz. You can also self-assess your smile, as an extra gummy smile might mean youve been mouth breathing since childhood. Or, look at your posture from a side angle, or get someone to take a picture of you. Those with blocked airways, including mouth breathers, tend to have heads that reach forward because theyre trying to get more air. (Since most mouth breathing starts in childhood, our posture can naturally develop this way to accommodate the habit.)

How does mouth taping work?

The practice consists of using some kind of porous tapenot duct tape or masking tapeto keep the lips shut at night in order to encourage nasal breathing. Its appearance differs based on the brand, but mouth tape is often thin, transparent and can be applied horizontally, vertically or in a criss-cross shape across the lips. If youre picturing looking like a hostage with tape across your mouth, you can take comfort in knowing the tape made specifically for this purpose doesnt look quite as alarming as duct tape would although its still slightly creepy and strange-looking. And while it will be more challenging to talk to your partner or take a sip of water in the night, mouth taping fans say the benefits can outweigh these minor inconveniences.If you are going to try tape, use one that is porous and is not too adhesive so that you can still open your mouth if need be, Magid-Katz suggests. This way, she says, the tape is more of a reminder and less restrictive. Some users try basic surgical tape from the pharmacy. She recommends doing an initial trial run for a short period of time during the day or early evening, when you are awake and calm.Once you apply the tape, put your tongue to the roof of your mouth and breathe through your nose slowly. You can even do this with the help of a meditative breathing app.If it does not feel right for you, dont do it, she says. Most importantly, always make sure you are able to breathe through your nose safely.According to Magid-Katz, some people do find mouth taping combined with over-the-counter nose strips (which are worn outside the nose and help open the sinus passages) to be effective. (You can also use nasal dilators, which go inside the nostrils.)And while Magid-Katz says mouth taping could work for some, Rotenberg says hes firmly against mouth taping. Thats because mouth breathing is usually caused by some kind of obstruction, so taping the mouth shut without an understanding of what the source of obstruction is in the first place doesnt really make sense. Its not as if you can psychologically trick yourself to overcome nasal allergies or a deviated septum, he says.

What to do if youre a mouth breather

Instead of mouth taping, Rotenberg says its a better idea to go see your healthcare provider to figure out what the actual source of the obstruction is and treat that instead. There are lots of safe and proven solutions, you just need to have the correct diagnosis first, he says. Allergies, for example, can be treated with nasal steroid sprays, while surgery is an option for polyps or a deviated septum.Magid-Katz also recommends speaking to a physician or dentist who is knowledgeable when it comes to the airway. Its important to make sure the nasal passage is clear and the dental arches allow for proper nasal breathing, she says, and you can also talk to a myofunctional therapist who can help strengthen and retrain the muscles. Some dental appliances are designed to help children and adults correct the habit as well. For some people, the more they breathe through their nose the clearer and easier it gets, so the first thing to do is become more conscious of it, she says. Try setting your phone alarm periodically throughout the day as a reminder to think about whether your mouth is open and how youre breathing, or have a friend or loved one look at you periodically and note if your mouth is open. Set aside time each morning and night to practice proper breathing techniques.Next: Can a Weighted Blanket with Cooling Tech Help Me Sleep (and Not Over-Heat)?

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How to floss

Its recommended that we floss once a day, but only 28 percent of Canadians floss even five times a week. Brushing only cleans the surface of your teeth, leaving plaquea sticky film filled with bacteriato build up in between teeth and cause problems. This was why floss was developed, says Dempster.While flossing is ideal, other tools can mimic what it does. Dempster says a Sulcabrush (a small, angled brush) or Soft-Picks (which look like toothpicks with rubber bristles on them) can help create a routine, since using these tools gets you into the habit of flossing dailycleaning between your teeth in any way is better than not at all. And while a Waterpik, which uses water pressure to clean between your teeth, may claim to have the same effect as flossing, Dempster says that its more effective for flushing out food but doesnt help with plaque, which is sticky and doesnt wash off well with just water. Plaque requires the sort of mechanical removal that flossing provides.

How to whiten teeth safely

Teeth whitening isnt newancient Romans used a mixture of urine (which contains ammonia) and goat milk for their smiles.Today, an increasing number of better-smelling products designed for at-home use are available to us. However, its normal for teeth to darken as we get older. Over time, enamelthe hard mineral layer that protects our teethgets stained or worn down, exposing dentina yellowish tissueunderneath. I think the pressure to whiten your teeth is more of a societal pressure, Dempster says.This societal pressure might be putting our teeth at risk. Im not convinced that theres a safe way to whiten your teeth, she adds. Some whitening products, like strips, contain carbamide or hydrogen peroxides, which act as bleaching agents that penetrate part of the tooth to remove stains. In the process, they can increase tooth sensitivity or irritate gums, and Dempster says theres emerging evidence that whitening can directly damage teeth.At-home products dont allow for a lot of control by the user, so its best to talk to your dentist or hygienist if youre really eager for pearly whites. They can guide you in choosing the right whitening products or let you know if you should opt for an in-office treatment to ensure that you dont cause your teeth any damage.

Is fluoride toothpaste safe?

Fluoride is a mineral found naturally in our teeth and bones. Its also added to some municipal water supplies and found in products like toothpaste because it helps to strengthen enamel. For all its benefits, though, this mineral is shrouded in controversy.Some people believe that too much fluoride can cause cancer when it accumulates in the bones. But several studies in different populations have been unable to find a strong link between cancer and fluoride, and organizations such as the World Health Organization, the United Kingdoms National Health Service and Canadas National Research Council have said that there is no direct association between fluoride and cancer. In fact, water fluoridation is associated with a 20 to 30 percent reduction in tooth decay at the population level.In Canada, municipalities decide whether to fluoridate their water. Torontos water, for example, has been fluoridated since 1963, and as of 2017, about 39 percent of Canadians had access to fluoridated water.

Benefits of tongue scraping

In addition to brushing, some people use tongue cleaning tools, such as tongue scrapers. While many do it to control bad breath, the goal of cleaning the tongue is actually to remove plaque and bacteria that build up on it.While some professionals say tongue scrapers can do a better job than toothbrushes, Dempster says you can clean your tongue just as easily with a toothbrush as you can with a special scraping tool. The best way to do this is by using your brush to lightly scrape from back to front, while avoiding activating your gag reflex.Now that you’ve learned expert-approved dental tips, find out about common dental issues and what they say about your overall health.

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Emergency measures for bad breath

Water: Dry mouth is a haven for the bacteria that cause bad breath. So find a tap, and swish the water around in your mouth. Water will temporarily dislodge bacteria and make your breath a bit more palatable.Parsley: At the end of your power lunch or romantic dinner, munch the sprig of parsley thats left on your plate. Parsley is rich in chlorophyll, a known breath deodorizer with germ-fighting qualities.Citrus: If you can get your hands on an orange, peel and eat it. The citric acid it contains will stimulate your salivary glands and encourage the flow of breath-freshening saliva. If there are no oranges in sight, eat whatever is available, except known breath-foulers like garlic, onions or stinky cheese. Eating encourages the flow of saliva, which helps remove the unpleasant, odour-causing material on the back of your tongue.Tongue scraper: Vigorously scrape your tongue over your teeth. Your tongue can become coated with bacteria that ferment proteins, producing gases that smell bad. Scraping your tongue can dislodge these bacteria so you can rinse them away. If you have a metal or plastic spoon, use it as a tongue scraper. To scrape safely, place the spoon on the back of your tongue and drag it forward. Repeat four or five times. Scrape the sides of the tongue as well, with the same back-to-front motion. Dont push the spoon too far back, however; you may activate your gag reflex.

Raid the spice shelf

Cloves: This spice is rich in eugenol, a potent antibacterial. Simply pop one into your mouth and dent it with your teeth. The pungent aromatic oil may burn slightly, so keep that spicy nub moving. Continue to bite until the essence permeates your mouth, then spit it out. Dont use clove oil or powdered cloves; theyre too strong and can cause burns.Fennel, dill, cardamom, or anise seeds: Chew on themit can kill the bacteria that grow on the tongue and help mask the odour of halitosis.Cinnamon: Suck on a stick of cinnamon. Like cloves, cinnamon is effective as an antiseptic.

Choose your breath fresheners

Therapeutic oral rinse: The most obvious brand-name products advertised as breath-fresheners are rarely, if ever, effective in the long run. But with a therapeutic oral rinse, you can rid yourself of the compounds that are responsible for breath odour. These products are available both at your local drugstore and over the Internet.Toothpaste with tea-tree oil: Use a toothpaste that contains tea-tree oil, a natural disinfectant. If you cant find it in the pharmacy, look for it in health-food stores.

Home remedies to prevent bad breath

Use an oral irrigator: It’s a handheld device that rapidly pulses a small jet of water into your mouth, to flush out the bad bacteria, which can go deeper than a brush or floss string can reach. Try Smile Brilliant’s cariPRO Cordless Water Flosser.Carry a toothbrush: Brush immediately after every meal. With prompt brushing you thwart the development of plaque, the soft, sticky film that coats the teeth and gums.Store your toothbrush properly: To keep your toothbrush free of stink-triggering bacteria, store it, head down, in a lidded plastic tumbler of hydrogen peroxide. Rinse the brush well before you use it.Soak dentures in an antiseptic: If you wear dentures, its possible that they are absorbing the bad odours in your mouth. Always soak them overnight in an antiseptic solution, unless your dentist has advised you otherwise.Dont skip meals:When you dont eat for a long period of time, your mouth can get very dry. It becomes a perfect breeding ground for bacteria.Avoid things that sour your breath:These include cigarettes, alcohol, onions, garlic and especially strong cheeses like Camembert, Roquefort, and blue cheese. In situations where sweet breath is a must, use the commonsense approachjust say no.Try a probiotic: Create a harmonious balance of healthy bacteria in your mouth with the help of a probiotic supplement, such as Smile Brilliant’s Dental Probiotics.Ask your doctor: Medication could be fouling the air you expel. Any drug that dries out your mouth, thereby depriving it of saliva, is suspect. These include over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants, diet pills, and prescription medications for depression and high blood pressure.Next: 6 Myths About Mouthwash That Might Be Hurting Your Health

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Rinse, gargle, spit

Many Canadians use mouthwash, or mouth rinses, as part of their oral hygiene routine. But how much do you know about this rinsing agent, other than the fact that it comes in lots of colours? Check out these six mouthwash myths and see how your rinse know-how compares.(Related: 35 Secrets Your Dentist Wont Tell You)

Myth 1: All mouthwashes are made equal

“The benefits from using a mouthwash depend largely on the type of product used,” says Dr. Euan Swan, manager of dental programs at the Canadian Dental Association in Ottawa. Mouthwash can be classified as cosmetic or therapeutic. Rinsing with a cosmetic mouthwash will loosen bits of food from your teeth, lessen bacteria in your mouth, temporarily reduce bad breath and leave a refreshing taste in your mouth. But these products can’t make any greater claim than that.Therapeutic rinses contain additional active ingredients such as essential oils, chlorhexidine, cetylpyridinium chloride and fluoride, which have been proven to reduce plaque or fight cavities. They may have a seal of recognition from the Canadian Dental Association.

Myth 2: Mouthwash is harmless

Many mouthwashes contain a high amount of alcohol. This can cause a dry mouth, which ironically is a cause of bad breath, and irritate oral tissues. “In some people, the alcohol can cause sensitivity to the root surfaces of the teeth,” adds Dr. Lewis West, a Toronto dentist. There have also been studies suggesting a link between alcohol-containing mouthwash and oral cancer, but the research is limited and many experts say there’s not enough evidence to draw this conclusion.Alcohol-free mouthwashes are available. But other ingredients can cause side effects, too. Many can stain your teeth or cause a burning sensation. Essential oils may have an uncomfortably sharp taste. Chlorhexidine can temporarily alter your sense of taste, and isn’t recommended for long-term use. Mouthwash is not meant to be ingested, so it may cause problems if accidentally swallowed. It’s not usually recommended for young children.

Myth 3: Mouthwash cures bad breath

Mouthwash may temporarily curtail stinky breath, but it’s not a permanent fix. Smelly compounds from your garlicky lunch, for example, are actually coming from your lungs as you exhale, so freshening your mouth won’t help for long. Your saliva can work against you too. Saliva dilutes mouthwash. In some cases, the proteins in saliva can reduce the effectiveness of mouthwash ingredients.

Myth 4: Mouthwash can replace brushing

Mouthwash can cut back the level of bacteria in your mouth. “But it’s not the type of thing that would last all day,” says Dr. West. “You still have to do your cleaning and brushing.” Regular flossing and brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush will do a much more effective job of removing plaque and debris than mouthwash alone.Research shows that adding a rinse with mouthwash to your oral care routine can in fact improve the overall cleanliness of your mouth and help keep gum inflammation at bay. But mouthwash is usually considered an add-on, not a replacement for brushing and flossing.In special situations, like after oral surgery, your healthcare provider might direct you to use a mouth rinse instead of brushing. This will be temporary, and soon you’ll be back to your usual mouth care.

Myth 5: A little swish’ll do ya

Do you gargle or rinse for a few quick seconds, then spit? Most mouthwashes are at their most effective when in contact with your mouth tissues for 30 seconds per use. But despite best intentions, some people say mouthwash is so strong or stings so much that it’s difficult to use for that long. (There’s even a Facebook group for folks who fail to keep mouthwash in their mouth for half a minute)Still, it’s worth sticking it out if you want the best results. “Mouthwash should be used as directed by the manufacturer,” says Dr. Swan.

Myth 6: Mouthwash is just for your mouth

Mouthwash doesn’t always have to go in your mouth to be useful. It’s a good cleansing product for mouth guards, for instance. Some people also swear by alcohol-based mouthwash for dandruff control, wound care, toilet bowl disinfectant and even underarm deodorizer. You won’t find these uses on the product label, however, so apply them at your own risk!Next: What to Know About the Benefits of Oil Pulling for Your Teeth

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Why flossing is so important

It goes where brush bristles can’t

Flossing is key because brushing alone can’t remove the food particles that trap themselves in spaces between the teeth, Tierno says. “Good, thorough brushing is important, and that gets the grooves and crevices on the top of the teeth and the smooth surfaces,” says Matthew Messina, a dentist and spokesperson for the American Dental Association. “But there are places in between the teeth, underneath the contact where the teeth touch, and underneath the gum line, that you can’t get at with a toothbrush,” he says. So we need to find another wayflossingto get food out of there.While news stories a few years back suggested that the evidence for the benefits of flossing were “weak,” that was more about a lack of rigorously controlled clinical trials of a health hygiene practice that has been recommended by the federal government since 1979. Dental professional groups like the Canadian Dental Association and the American Dental Association say flossing has clear benefits. “When you floss, you look at the crud that comes out in between the teeth, and under the gum lines on the floss, it becomes pretty obvious to say why would we want to leave that there,” says Messina.Here are the benefits of flossing, according to dental professionals:(Related: 12 Things Dentists Never Put in Their Mouth)

It disrupts bacteria

The mix of bacteria in the mouth and food sitting there irritates the gum tissue, and is a breeding ground for even more bacteria, according to Dr. Messina. Plus, dentist Mark Burhenne, founder ofAsktheDentist.com,adds that the bacteria of the mouth very quickly and easily consume western diet food like packaged and processed foods. “Certain bacteria like Streptococcus mutans become more populous because of the starchy foods you’re eating,” Dr. Burhenne says. “Then they become very organized, and they’re sitting on your teeth, then you’ve got a problem.”Meanwhile, flossing regularly disrupts the bacteria and disturbs their presence underneath the gum line. This is key since bacteria burn or feed on the sugars in food particles, eventually dissolving tooth enamel and causing cavities, Dr. Messina explains. That oral bacteria in the mouth that are breaking down that stuck food may also lead to gum inflammation, swelling, infection, and bad breath, too.If you ever wonder why your gums bleed when you floss, that’s because of inflammation in the area. It’s the body responding to the presence of bacteria by bringing white blood cells to the area. And no, it doesn’t mean that you’re flossing “wrong” or cutting the gums. In fact, the inflammation is the problem, not the flossing. “This can cause bone loss around the teeth, bone running away from the bacteria, and swelling and puffiness gum tissues,” Dr. Messina says. Worst-case scenarios include bone loss, loose teeth, and loss of teeth, per Dr. Messina.Dr. Burhenne adds that blood when you floss ironically occurs because you’re not brushing or flossing enough in the first place.(Related: What Dentists Think About Tongue Scrapers)

So, how often should you floss?

Once a day is all you need, according to Dr. Messina. His reasoning? It takes the colonies of bacteria in your mouth 24 hours to organize, per Dr. Messina. “They are at their most dangerous when the colonies are organized,” he says. The Canadian Dental Association also recommends cleaning between the teeth once a day using floss. Dr. Burhenne recommends flossing every time before you brush your teeth so that the toothpaste ingredients can work. “Why waste your time with toothpaste if it’s not getting to where it’s supposed to be getting?” he asks.The floss breaks apart biofilm on the teeth and allows the ingredients in the toothpaste to get to the proper areas and help your teeth. Note that flossing doesn’t totally remove this bacteria, but it does disrupt them. That’s why Tierno recommends flossing after each meal because no matter when or what you eat, food can stick. Although, Dr. Messina says that’s probably asking too much.”Sure, that would absolutely be nice, but I try to live in the real world, and I never ask people to do things I don’t think they can do because that’s a prescription for frustration on everybody’s part,” he says. “I think everybody can give us brushing twice a day, and flossing once a day; that’s achievable.”Dr. Burhenne adds that the goal is to make it practical for people to floss.”If we ask them to floss twice a day, they’re not gonna do it, which means they won’t floss at all,” he says.But if you can get them to do it at least once a week, that’s the first step to building the habit.(Related: 11 Dentist-Approved Home Remedies for Sensitive Teeth)

Who should floss more?

Remember, everyone has a unique set of teeth. For some people, because of their natural spacing, food may trap in between more often.”Literally, you have to pay attention to your own needs and look at yourself in the mirror,” Tierno adds.If certain foods always stick in the same spot, that’s your sign to floss well in that area.”If you’re getting food trapped after every meal, you’re going to have to floss it,” Dr. Burhenne says.This may be common in people with significant space between the teeth.The same is true if you have an open contact, a space between the teeth if they shift after dental work. Dr. Burhenne recommends putting a knot in your floss to help remove food from this area.People with gum disease also shouldn’t shy away from flossing since disrupting that biofilm, bacteria, and plaque is the best thing you can do, according to Dr. Burhenne.Anyone with oral disease should be flossing more often. So should people who are mouth breathers, Dr. Burhenne adds.(Related: 5 Signs You Need to See Your Dentist ASAP)

The bottom line

Something is always better than nothing in terms of flossing. And you can’t floss too often, according to Dr. Burhenne.”A lot of times people tell me there’s no way they can floss every day,” Dr. Messina says. They use that as an excuse not to start.”My answer to that is if we know that daily or once every 24 hours is best, I’ll take anything I can get,” he says.If you’re willing to floss on weekends, or two days a week, it’s a start. Dr. Messina says that once most people start flossing regularly, even if not daily, it becomes muscle memory and an easy practice.They get used to it and always notice a difference in their gums and teeth, motivating them to increase their flossing frequency.Dr. Burhenne says he’s seen statistics claiming as few as 28 percent of people in Canada floss more than five times a week. Many people find it uncomfortable, painful, or difficult to do. That’s why Dr. Burhenne is a fan of floss sticks because using them takes very little coordination. Other options include water flossers or traditional dental floss. Although it might not be the most fun, experts agree that there are plenty of reasons to floss.Next: 35 Secrets Your Dentist Wont Tell You

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Flossing basics

1. Take a piece of flossabout 18 inches long, or roughly the length between the tips of your fingers and your elbow. Leaving about two inches between your hands, wrap the floss around your index and middle fingers on both hands.
2. Slide the floss in between two teeth, then wrap it around one of the teeth into a C shape around the base; gently slide it under the gum line. Now, wipe the tooth two to three times from base to tip.
3. Make sure you floss the sides of both teethit’s surprising how many of us only do one side. Use a new section of the 18-inch piece of floss for each tooth, as it wears and picks up particles as you use it.
4. After you’re finished, brush your teeth. Flossing, then brushing, helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

(Related: What to Know About Toothpaste Tablets Before Making the Switch)

Mistakes to avoid

Not flossing enoughYou need to floss daily to prevent build-up of the dreaded tartar. And remember, when you first begin to floss, gums can bleedso don’t let that deter you. Try to floss at night before bed so the plaque between your teeth doesn’t have all night to rest and fester.Not removing the plaqueA lot of us use floss only to remove food that’s stuck between our teeth. Remember, for floss to be useful, you need to spend the time required to remove plaque: scraping the surface up and down two or three times, moving gently below the gum line, on both sides of each tooth. Having difficulty? Ask your dentist to recommend a type of floss (waxed vs. unwaxed, for example) suitable for your teeth.Not using enough pressureIt takes some elbow grease to actually clear the tooth of plaque. Press firmly against the tooth, while moving gently and slowly when guiding the floss under the gum line.Not flossing long enoughMost of us have 28 teeth, which means it should take us about two minutes for decent results. Add in the two to three minutes required for brushing, and it takes about five minutes an evening to ensure you have a set of teeth that can last you a lifetime.Next: What Dentists Think About Tongue Scrapers

The post This Is the Right Way to Floss Your Teeth appeared first on Best Health.

It may break up plaque

The most commonly cited benefit of oil pulling has to do with its purported ability to break down plaque, or biofilm, on the teeth. This is a layer of bacteria that clings to the surface of the tooth. It can get out of control very quickly, especially if you eat a western diet, which raises your odds of having cavities and bad breath. Without regular removal, biofilm can lead to conditions like gingivitis and periodontal disease.”Unlike brushing your teeth, which is the mechanical removal of the biofilm, [oil pulling] is a mild chemical emulsification breakup of this biofilm,” says dentist Mark Burhenne, founder of AsktheDentist.com. As it moves around your teeth, the oil breaks downs the layer of plaque without being overly harsh.A study of 60 teens with gingivitis (a mild form of gum disease that causes inflamed gums), published in 2015 in the Nigerian Medical Journal, found that participants had less plaque and better gum health after only a week of coconut oil pulling.In another study, researchers randomly assigned of 20 teens with gingivitis to swish with mouthwash or sesame oil for 10 days. They found that both treatments reduced the number of harmful mouth bacteria, according to the Indian Journal of Dental Research.It’s worth noting that both of these studies were small, so more research is needed to confirm the results in a larger study group.(Related: 12 Things Dentists Never Put in Their Mouth)

It may help prevent cavities

Oil pulling could potentially help prevent cavities, Dr. Burhenne says. According to 2016 research in The Journal of Contemporary Dental Practice, oil pulling may decrease the number of harmful bacteria in saliva as effectively as a mouthwash. These types of bacteria in the mouth can lead to tooth decay and cavities.

It could help banish bad breath

People with halitosis, or bad breath, may find oil pulling offers some relief. A small study of 20 children, published in the Journal of Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry compared rinsing with chlorhexidine (a typical antiseptic mouthwash treatment for halitosis) to sesame oil pulling. They found that both decreased the levels of microorganisms known to contribute to bad breath. It’s a small study, so additional research is needed to support the finding.

It may help rehydrate your mouth

If you’ve been mouth breathing all night long, Dr. Burhenne recommends oil pulling in the morning. It may break down the thick biofilm that formed overnight due to mouth dryness and a lack of saliva.If you breathe through your mouth overnight, “first thing when you wake up, do five to 10 minutes of oil pulling in the morning to help restore the pH and the viscosity of the saliva and rehydrate the mouth,” Dr. Burhenne says.

It may encourage good oral health

Oil pulling may promote good oral health, generally speaking, because it may reduce harmful bacteria. In the Journal of Contemporary Dental Practice study mentioned above, both mouthwash and coconut oil reduced the bacteria found in saliva.Coconut oil could be especially beneficial because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.Another thing about oil pulling is that it neutralizes the pH in the mouth, according to Dr. Burhenne. “As you get closer to acidic, lower pHs, in the mouth, that’s when teeth demineralize,” he says. That is, the acids in your mouth affect the enamel of your teeth, which loses minerals. And that can lead to tooth decay.”Oil pull for three to five minutes will neutralize the pH in the mouth, [starting] almost immediately upon contact,” Dr. Burhenne says. “Of course, so will swishing with water. But the water will not break down the biofilm, so potentially it’s a great preventative oral hygiene technique.”The only potential benefit that Dr. Messina sees is that people may pay more attention to their teeth because they don’t like the taste of the oil.”People may then go and want to brush their teeth more or longer afterward to get rid of the taste, so if it increases their level of efficiency in oral hygiene, that might have a benefit,” he says. “We always want to get people to brush more effectively.”That said, there are certainly easier ways to brush your teeth more without having to first rinse your mouth with oil, he notes.(Related: I Tried a Charcoal Toothbrush to Whiten My TeethHeres What Happened)

What oil pulling can’t do

One of the biggest misconceptions about oil pulling is that it’s a miracle cure for any and all oral health problems. It might work, but according to Dr. Burhenne it’s more preventative, and certainly not a quick fix. And it’s absolutely not a replacement for visiting a dentist.”That’s where it goes wrong,” Dr. Burhenne says. “A lot of people think, ‘I can just oil pull.’ They think that oil pulling can make it so that they don’t have to see a dentist.”If you’re dealing with full-on gum disease, including symptoms like bone loss and tartar, oil pulling won’t cut it. You’ll need to see a dentist for mechanical removal, surgeries, and guidance, Dr. Burhenne says.Dr. Messina adds that his main worry with oil pulling is that people may expect significant results, which won’t happen, and avoid actively treating an oral disease.

Does oil pulling whiten your teeth?

A lot of people are also under the impression that oil pulling whitens your teeth, but that’s not exactly the case, according to Dr. Burhenne.”It can not physically alter or whiten the actual value or colour of your tooth. That’s impossible,” Dr. Burhenne says. “But it may change the reflectivity of your teeth.”Very thick biofilms have a matte finish or surface. Get rid of that layer of buildup and your teeth may be shinier.(Related: 10 Teeth Whitening Mistakes to Avoid)

Is oil pulling safe?

Dr. Messina says that oil pulling is not dangerous, unless it’s in place of regular brushing and flossing.”If you’re foregoing something that actually does work in order to oil pull, which doesn’t have an effect, that would be a negative,” Dr. Messina says. “Otherwise, it doesn’t seem to have any negative effects.”Some experts believe oil pulling can be harmful to the oral cavity, with side effects such as dry mouth, excessive thirst, and loss of sensation or taste in the mouth.Oil pulling could have other negative potential side effects, including nausea, headache, tooth sensitivity, and a sore jaw, says dentist Jeffrey Sulitzer, the chief clinical officer of SmileDirectClub, a telehealth platform for dentistry.It could be unsafe if you are allergic to the type of oil. You may also get an upset stomach if you swallow the oil after pulling.”If you swallow this oil, that could really affect your stomach because in that oil, after you’ve been oil pulling for four to five minutes, there are a lot of cell membranes, a lot of cell debris, and that could cause a problem,” Dr. Burhenne says.

Don’t overdo it

People who overdo oil pulling take away the potential benefits, Dr. Burhenne says.”People who oil pull too much can have sensitive teeth, and they could even demineralize their teeth by affecting or removing too much of the biofilm,” Dr. Burhenne says. “The biofilm is there to help the teeth maintain a state of calcification or mineralization, and it’s the bacteria in that biofilm that help the teeth remineralize after a demineralization event, like a very acidic or sugar meal or a dry mouth.”

Which type of oil should you use?

Coconut oil pulling is the most popular option for a variety of reasons: It’s easy to find, has a pleasant taste, and contains high amounts of antimicrobial lauric acid, according to research in the journal Cell Transplantation.While coconut oil pulling is the most common, you can get the same desired effect with olive or sesame oil, according to Dr. Burhenne.Other research comparing coconut oil pulling to other types is also promising. One 2018 study in the Journal of Natural Science, Biology, and Medicine found that coconut oil pulling is more effective than oil pulling with sesame oil to reduce gingivitis severity.One thing to keep in mindsome oils, like sesame and coconut oilcan by pricey. Oil pulling may end up being more expensive than toothpaste and mouthwash, or at least an added expense when used in combination with those.

How to oil pull

Put about a tablespoon of oil in your mouthless if your mouth is small. Trial and error will help you determine the right amount for you.Swish the oil around. Some people swish for 15 to 20 minutes, but Dr. Burhenne says you can do so for about five minutes.Spit the oil into a napkin or trashcan (if it goes down your sink, it can clog your pipes). Never swallow the oil.

The bottom line

The limited research on oil pulling and the experts’ mixed opinions make it hard to determine a steadfast ruling on this alternative treatment.If you have good oral hygiene and regularly brush, floss, Waterpik, and use mouthwash, it’s unlikely you’ll benefit much from adding oil pulling to your routine. Experts disagree on the severity of potential negative side effects.Remember, oil pulling is not a replacement for brushing, flossing, or visiting a dentist. And it can’t fix any serious oral health issues, such as gum disease. It’s safe to say oil pulling shouldn’t be your first line of defense.Next: 12 Teeth-Cleaning Mistakes That Make Dentists Cringe

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What is a canker sore?

Its a somewhat mysterious condition known medically as recurrent aphthous ulcers, says Craig Zunka, DDS, a dentist in Front Royal, Virginia. The sores typically appear inside the lips or cheeks, around the gums, or on the tongue. They are white or yellowish, with a halo of red, ranging from the size of a pinhead to the dimensions of a quarter. Experts arent sure what causes canker sores, but an immune-system malfunction is thought to play a role. A stressful episode or a mouth injury often precedes a breakout. Recurrent sores can also be brought on by eating certain foods if you have sensitivities, such as chocolate, strawberries. eggs. cheese and spicy or acidic foods. Toothpastes containing sodium laurel sulfate may cause them in some people, as well.

When you should call a doctor

If the pain is too distracting or its keeping you from eating or drinking, call your dentist. Definitely call the dentist if you have more than four sores at a time or if the sores last longer than two weeks. Also, if you find that youre getting canker sores frequently, tell your dentist at your next visit so he or she can recommend evaluation and treatment, such as an antibiotic mouth rinse, a steroid ointment, a prescription oral paste, or chemical cautery of the sores.

How to get rid of canker sores

Seal the sore

Over-the-counter products such as Zilactin-B Canker Sore Gel and Colgate Orabase Soothe-N-Seal can speed healing and provide fast pain relief, according to Mayo Clinic.A form of licorice known as deglycyrrhizinated licorice, or DGL, also helps with canker sores, according to a study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research.The sap of aloe verathe ubiquitous first aid plantcan bring welcome relief, a study published in Dental Research Journal found. The study authors used a 2 percent gel.

Put it in neutral

Use a small amount of milk of magnesia as a mouth rinse, or apply it to the canker sore three to four times a day to help healing, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Get that numb feeling

Dab on a topical anesthetic such as Anbesol or Orajel, or let a pain-relieving lozenge, such as Chloraseptic, dissolve in your mouth, suggests the American Academy of Family Physicians. (Have a metallic taste in your mouth? Find out if it’s linked to these health conditions.)

Battle bacteria

Dissolving salt or baking soda into water and rinsing your mouth can aid in healing, according to the Mayo Clinic. Plus, try to eat yogurt that contains live acidophilus cultures (check the label). Acidophilus has been shown to speed up canker sore healing.

Take extra measures

Nutritional deficiencies may play a role in the development of canker sores. Consider taking folate (folic acid), vitamin B-6, vitamin B-12 or lysine to help reduce the occurrence of canker sores and speed healing, say the experts at the Mayo Clinic. Zinc may help mouth injuries like canker sores heal faster, according to a study in the journal Pharmanest. As soon as you detect a sore developing, take 30 milligrams of zinc lozenges each day until its gone.Medically reviewed bySusanne Jackson, DDS.Now that you’ve learned how to get rid of canker sores, next discover theold-time home remedies your grandmother grew up with.

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How to whiten your teeth

Whether your weakness is a steaming cup of drip coffee or a goblet of robust Bordeaux, essential adulting beverages arent kidding around when it comes to leaving their mark on your smile. You dont have to go without either, just step up your game when it comes to your pearly whites.Truth: there are lots of reasons to stay committed to twice-daily brushing and flossing. Eyes are the windows to the soul, but the mouth gives insight into overall health. The bacteria that is found in the mouth travels through the bloodstream and has been linked to, and can be a contributing factor to, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, adverse pregnancy outcomes and Alzheimers disease to name a few, says Irene Iancu, a Toronto-based dental health professional. If the goal of achieving a dazzling smile takes the lead on the road to staying in tip-top shape, so be it!

Go electric

Start by investing in an electric toothbrush. Research has been in favour of power versus manual [toothbrushes] for decades, says Iancu, who sees positive effects firsthand. Aside from the decrease of inflammation and gingivitis, I see noticeable changes in the reduction of surface stains from extrinsic factors like coffee, tea, wine and dark juices. (Seeing red? Here are 6 reasons why your gums are bleeding.)Pretty and powerful this interactive beauty is equipped to protect gums while tracking neglected zones. Oral-B Genius Pro 9600 ($290) in Orchid Purple, available exclusively at shoppersdrugmart.ca. Additional colours available at amazon.ca (Black) and walmart.ca (Sakura Pink).

Next-level at-home whitening

Free of cavities and have no dental pain? Then youre an ideal candidate for an at-home whitening kit. I love that it is completely controlled by you, and the applications are easy to use and relatively gentle on the teeth, says Iancu. She also recommends getting a dental checkup and cleaning beforehand. By making sure there is limited plaque and tartar, you are ensuring the active ingredients are in contact with the enamel, therefore having an easier time reaching your teeth.Blue LED light technology targets yellow stains for next-level brightening. Crest 3D White Whitestrips with Light, $120 at mass market retailers

Smooth lips

With a radiant smile in play, your lips deserve equal attention. Get a jump on chapped lips season. Have a gentle exfoliator on standby to whisk away inevitable flakes, and stock up on balm to create a protective barrier.Blended with organic goodies (sugar and coconut oil) to buff away dry skin. Henn Organics Nordic Berries Lip Exfoliator, $31 at shoppersdrugmart.ca/beautyA leave-on gel that gently exfoliates while nourishing. Fresh Sugar Lip Wonder Drops Advanced Therapy, $32 at sephora.ca

Pick a complementary lip colour

Sporting a bright lipstick remains the surefire way to dress up a smile. Vibrant pink is the go-to of Christy Coleman, chief artistic officer for Beautycounter. It enhances a persons natural lip colour. Unlike red, its a much softer option and thus more forgiving, she says, Its very cheery, and you can blot it out to create a stain effect as well.What does your lipstick shape reveal about you? Find out with our quiz.Protects lips with moisturizing oils, green tea powder and vanilla. Winky Lux Matcha Balm, $18 at shoppersdrugmart.ca/beautyDelivers universally flattering, long-lasting colour with a clean beauty POV. Beautycounter Color Intense Lipstick in Garden Party, $42 at beautycounter.com

Serious refreshment

And dont forget the final step: fresh breath.Refreshing and portable. Just add a sip of water. Lush Mouthwash Tabs in Crme de Menthe, $10 at lush.caDon’t miss these 7 things your mouth is trying to tell you.

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A sore that isn’t healing

If you notice a mouth sore, a lump or a red or pale patch of skin on your tongue, cheek or gum, keep an eye on it for a couple of weeks. If it doesn’t go away, see your dentist ASAP. An earlier diagnosis of oral cancer means a much better chance of recovery. That’s why dental professionals should do a cancer screening at your regular visits, even if you haven’t noticed any symptoms. And you can check yourself at home once a month. Ask your dental care providers how to do a self-exam. “It’s not difficult to do,” says Mandy Hayre, Chair of Vancouver Island University’s Dental Hygiene Diploma Program. “It just takes a mirror and good lighting.”

Pain and swelling

If you have unexplained pain or puffiness in your mouth that persists for a couple of days, bite the bullet and call your dentist. It could be a sign of infection, decay, gum disease or a cracked tooth. Left untreated, these problems can worsen and even lead to tooth loss. Don’t delay, especially if the symptoms are disturbing your sleep. “You absolutely have to go to your dentist,” says Hayre.

A bad smell or taste in your mouth

Foul-smelling breath could be a consequence of that sliced onion you had on your lunch salad. Or it could mean you’re not looking after your teeth and gums properly, and there’s a build-up of bacteria. But sometimes bad breath signals other health problems like gum disease, sinusitis, throat or lung infections, tooth decay or an abscess. A bad taste in the mouth can also be a sign of an oral infection.You may not realize your mouth smells rank. So if your spouse or partner comments on your bad breath, consider it a courtesy – and call your dentist’s office.

If you have a loose tooth, see your dentist

Of course, a wiggly tooth is perfectly natural when you’re six years old. But when you’re forty-six, you need to see a dentist about it. “The number-one cause of loose teeth is gum disease,” says Hayre. And since gum or periodontal disease can cause tooth loss, it’s important to get your oral health back on track.Occasionally, a loose tooth can be a sign of oral cancer. An accidental impact to your mouth can also loosen a tooth or two. Either way, you shouldn’t ignore a tooth that’s less than solid, because that’s not normal for adults.

Wisdom tooth symptoms

Is your third set of molars, also known as your wisdom teeth, giving you grief? If there isn’t enough space for them at the back of the mouth, they can become impacted. It’s a common problem that can have no symptoms at all. But sometimes impacted teeth cause tenderness, swelling and other symptoms.Impacted or partially erupted teeth can attract a buildup of plaque and debris, and they may even cause a shift in the alignment of your other teeth. If you’re noticing soreness or swelling near your back molars, it’s important to have them checked. The earlier these troublesome teeth are removed, the smoother the recovery process.If your mouth is generally feeling fine, your dentist will recommend a regular appointment schedule, such as every six months. But when it comes to certain signs and symptoms, you shouldn’t wait. Remember, most oral health problems have a better outcome when they’re, well, nipped in the bud.

The post 5 Signs You Need to See Your Dentist ASAP appeared first on Best Health.

Dealing with the pain of sensitive teeth?

Tooth sensitivity can be a pain in the-well, in the mouth. Cold or hot foods and drinks, sugary sweets, even a cold wind against your teeth can make your pearly whites start throbbing or stinging.In most cases, teeth are sensitive because their protective outer layers-enamel over the crown, or cementum over the root-have worn away. That exposes your tooth’s dentin, which is full of tiny tubes with sensitive nerve endings running through them.Are you suffering from sensitive teeth? Try these six tips to help ease the pain.

1. Try toothpaste made for sensitive teeth

Several brands of toothpaste on the market are designed to help people with sensitive teeth. Some pastes contain an active ingredient called potassium nitrate, which helps to block the tiny tubules in the dentin. They don’t work for everybody, but experts agree it’s usually the best place to start. “How you’re using it is important,” says Maureen Bowerman, a dental hygienist in Saskatoon. “Lots of times people are using it just for a little bit, and then they stop. But you need to continue to use it.”

2. Change the way you brush

If you’re not using a soft toothbrush, if you’re scrubbing your teeth vigorously, or if you’re not brushing for a full two minutes, then you’re not doing any favours for your sensitive teeth. Hard brushing can actually wear away enamel, increasing the sensitivity in your teeth. If you have any recession of your gums or bone loss-and your tooth root is exposed as a result-then you’re also scrubbing at cementum. Cementum is meant to protect the root of the tooth, but wears away even faster than enamel. “Changing your brushing habits is really a huge feat,” says Bowerman. However, it’s change that will definitely pay off.

3. Avoid acidic food and drinks

Exposure to red wine, pop, fruit juices and acidic foods-such as oranges and pickles-can put your enamel under constant attack. Limit these foods and drinks, and try to brush about 20 minutes after eating them (not earlier, or the brushing may hurt your enamel further). Even if your teeth aren’t yet feeling sensitive, it’s a good idea to be cautious about consuming certain foods and drinks, as enamel loss is irreversible.

4. Ask your dentist about a paint job

If you’re not having much luck with a desensitizing toothpaste, talk to your dentist about painted-on barriers. Desensitizing agents like fluoride varnish or even plastic resins can be applied to the sensitive areas of your teeth. They wear off over time-a few months to a couple of years, depending on what material is used-so they’ll need to be reapplied.

5. Put a stop to tooth grinding

If you’re grinding your teeth when you’re tense, you could be wearing away enamel and giving yourself a sensitivity problem. You may not even realize you’re grinding: Often people only do it while they’re sleeping, but unexplained jaw pain or headaches could be a clue. If you do grind your teeth, try a mouth guard at night, or change your sleeping position. If you notice yourself clenching during the day, remind yourself to relax your jaw with your teeth slightly apart.

6. Treat your receding gums

Normally the root of your tooth is covered up by your gum tissue. But if you have some gum recession, caused by gum disease or even hard brushing, then the root will be exposed and the cementum can be worn away. Your dental care provider may be able to rebuild or restore your receding gums, for example with a treatment involving tissue grafts.But Bowerman notes that before treatment, it’s always important first to pinpoint the exact cause of sensitive teeth. That way you’ll hit on the right solution. “If you’re brushing incorrectly and causing the receding gums, you have to change the way you brush before you start anything aggressive like a restorative treatment,” she says. “Otherwise, you’ll just end up going through the restorative material and coming back. And we haven’t helped you out a great deal.”Learn more about taking care of your smile : The 2017 Best Health Wellness Awards Oral Health Products Fresh Breath Tips: 10 Ways to Get a Clean and Healthy Mouth 6 Quick Fixes For The Most Common Dental Emergencies

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Best Toothpaste

Say buh-bye to sharp tooth pain with a paste that cleans and repairs vulnerable areas.Sesodyne Repair & Protect with Novamin, $6 at drug stores.

Best Teeth Whitener

Smile! These strips offer a snug fit for better coverage and brighter results.Crest 3D White WhiteStrips Luxe Supreme Fit, $80 at drug stores. 

Best Toothbrush

Cleaning goes high-tech with this app-based appliance that promotes longer, better brushing.Oral-B Genius 8000, $270 at mass retailers.

Best Mouthwash

A rinse that fights stains and gingivitis? Well take it.Listerine UltraClean Anti-Stain Antiseptic Mouthwash, $10 at drug stores.

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Feeling lazy about brushing? Heres a great reason to show your smile some love: A study from the University of Southern California found that people who reported not brushing their teeth daily had a 22 to 65 percent greater risk of dementia than those who brushed three times a day. The connection between your gums and your grey matter probably has something to do with a process that Brett Finlay, co-author of Let Them Eat Dirt, refers to as inflammaging, a chronic low-grade activation of the immunesystem that takes a toll on your body. When harmful bacteria colonize your gums, their inflammatory byproducts seep through the gums and into your body, where all that inflammation can lead to dementia and heart disease. Brushing on a regular basis could help prevent this micro-level mayhem. Click through to see the three toothbrushes we’re loving right now.

Smile with confidence

Plaque won’t stand a chance againstthis toothbrush, which features feathered bristle tips that gently cleans your pearly whites.

Oral-B Pro-Health Compact Clean Toothbrush, $8.96 at walmart.ca.

Perfectly polished

If you’re looking for a naturally whiter smile, this is the toothbrush for you. This whitening toothbrush has special spiral bristles that are designed to polish teeth and remove stains for a healthier, happier smile.

Life Brand Optimal Whitening Toothbrush, $4.99 at Shoppers Drug Mart.

For the Softies

Love soft-bristled toothbrushes? Look no further. This toothbrush is gentle enough for even the most sensitive gums and teeth.

Sensodyne Precision Soft Toothbrush, $11.45at amazon.ca.

The post Can You Avoid Dementia By Brushing Your Teeth? appeared first on Best Health.

I’m So Embarrassed By My Bad Breath, What Can I Do?

The Naturopath Says:

First, don’t assume it’s your fault! Most people with bad breath are quick to blame themselves, but the problem isn’t always related to oral hygiene. In fact, it often stems from other causes, such as bacterial and yeast infections. These could be present in your mouth, throat, nose, sinuses or digestive tract. If it’s a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be needed, which can be prescribed by your medical doctor or dentist.

For a yeast overgrowth, often caused by antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections or a diet high in sugar, I often recommend taking caprylic acid (derived from coconut oil) and psyllium, shaken or blended into a glass of water, once a day. Another option is a combination of probiotics, pau d’arco (an antibacterial herb) and grapefruit seed extract, all of which can be taken orally. As well, taking probiotics to repopulategut flora is essential.

An unhealthy gut can also be to blame for bad breath. Low acid production in the stomach, low bile production in the liver and decreaseddigestive enzymes can reduce the breakdown of foods in the gut, resulting in decompositionand a foul odour. Herbs like globe artichoke, dandelion and gentian root naturally promote acid production in the stomach and bile release from the liver. I prescribe these to my patients in supplement form with great success (exact dosages should be determined by a practitioner). Animal or plant-based digestive enzymes can also be taken when needed to keep your gut healthy and your breath fresh.

There are several things I recommend in general to prevent bad breath. A big one is to drastically reduce your sugar intake. This can prevent and treat bad-breath-causing infections by not feeding the bacteria in your mouth or the yeast population in your digestive tract, both of which thrive on the sweet stuff. I also suggest using a low-sugar toothpaste, such as Tom’s of Maine, and rinsing your mouth with water after brushing.

Chew gum that contains xylitol rather than aspartame or sugar, as xylitol reduces bacteria in the mouth and protects against cavities. Daily sinus rinses using a neti pot can keep nasal passages clean and help wash away infection.

Oil pulling can also reduce the oral microbe population by cutting down on tartar and promoting healthy, infection-resistant gums. Forcefully swishone or two teaspoons of coconut oil in your mouth and through the teeth for about 20 minutes (or as long as you can).The idea is that the oil attracts the fatty layer of the cell wall of microbes, allowing them to attach to the oil to pull them out of tissues or dissolving the cell wall and actually killing the microbes.

As per all health advice, oversight by a qualified healthcare professional such as a naturopathic doctor, is advised.

Dr. Patricia Wales is a naturopath in Calgary.

The Dentist Says:

There are many causes of halitosis, the clinical term for bad breath, but diet is an obvious place to look for a solution. Onions, garlic, spices and dairy products are common offenders. Garlic and onions have a strong odour but also contain compounds that get absorbed into the bloodstream and can be released through the lungs, creating a second wave of bad breath. Dairy contains amino acids that bacteria from the mouth feed on, which causes them to release a foul odour. Smoking is another common cause of halitosis because it diminishes the oxygen available in the mouth, creating a viable environment for bacteria-causing gum disease and periodontitis.

While oral hygiene isn’t always the cause, it can be the solution. That’s because bacteria accumulates easily on the teeth, soft tissue and tongue, causing inflammation, gingivitis, cavities and even periodontitis with bone loss, where pockets develop around the teeth and create a haven for bacteria that’s impossible to clean with home care.

Prevention is crucial, and good oral care means brushing your teeth for two or three minutes twice a day and flossing once a day. Mouthwash may temporarily mask bad breath, but it doesn’t help clean your mouth or correct the problem unless it’s an antibiotic or antifungal rinse prescribed by a dentist. Mouthwashes that contain alcohol are a no-no because they can exacerbate dry mouth – another cause of halitosis.

Saliva is very beneficial to oral heath, as it naturally cleans the mouth and has a buffering and antimicrobial effect. That’s why staying hydrated is also very important for fresh breath.

It’s important to discuss recurring bad breath with your dentist. If the source is gum disease or oral infections caused by yeast or other pathogens, your dentist will be able to treat these issues with proper care, including gingival curettage (a deep under-the-gum cleaning), antifungal mouth rinses and even surgical treatments. If the source is extra-oral, like gastric reflux or certain metabolic conditions, your dentist can guide you to a physician that will be able to care for your concerns.

Dr. Gabrielle Lemay is a dentist in Westmount, QC.

Recommended:

• 7 Ways Your Oral Health Affects Your Overall Health
• 5 Ways Green Tea Is Good For Your OralHealth
• 6 Ways To Reduce Tooth Sensitivity

The post How To Get Rid of Bad Breath, Once and For All appeared first on Best Health.

Good oral health = Good general health

A semi-annual date with your dentist will not only ensure that you leave your appointment with a bright smile and clean mouth, but also help you stay on top of your general health. “Regular dental visits help with early diagnosis and prevention of dental disease and act as a screening tool to detect potentially serious conditions,” says Dr. Effie Habsha, a board-certified prosthodontist, at Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto.Along with checkups every six months, the Canadian Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth (and tongue) at least twice a day and flossing daily.Why is maintenance so important? “Research shows that infections in the mouth can travel via the bloodstream, permeating organs and your immune system,” says Dr. Habsha. “Studies have linked poor oral hygiene, tooth decay and periodontal disease to a number of illnesses, including heart and respiratory disease.”That sounds ominous, but the point to focus on is this: Good oral health can help ensure good general health. Use our guide to know what to look for.

Cavities

Indulging in a daily sugar fix could be digging a hole in your tooth. “Too much sugar in your diet, poor oral hygiene and neglect can lead to cavities,” says Dr. Michael Rouhi, a dentist based in Toronto.Also, if you overload on acidic foods or drinks (such as lemon water), you might want to ease up, as these contribute to dental erosion, too.Get your cavities filled immediately – if left unattended, cavities can grow larger, leading to nerve pain and affecting your ability to eat. These cavities can also lead to a tooth infection, which can spread to other areas of the body, including your brain.A lack of moisture in the mouth creates an environment that’s ripe for tooth decay. Our saliva plays an important role in removing bacteria and food debris from our teeth while mediating the pH balance in our mouth. If you suffer from dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, check your prescriptions and over-the-counter medications, as this is a common side effect.

Bad breath

“Eighty to 90 percent of bad breath is caused by bacteria that lingers in your mouth, producing volatile, foul-smelling sulfur compounds,” says Dr. Rouhi. Smell familiar? It’s the same offensive odour that rotten eggs emit. The more bacteria you have, the worse your halitosis. Easy fix: Along with brushing, clean your tongue and floss daily.A Canadian Health Measures Survey found that we’re getting a failing grade in flossing, with just over one-quarter of respondents flossing at least five times a week. “If this step isn’t part of your daily routine, you’re missing 20 percent of the tooth surface, and what’s left behind produces the perfect breeding ground for destructive bacteria,” says dentist Dr. Uche Odiatu.You can be excused for the occasional hiccup because of a garlic-laced lunch, but if dragon’s breath persists, it’s time to identify the root cause and contributing health factors. The three main culprits of chronic bad breath include: postnasal drip (the result of excessive mucus from your nose accumulating in the back of your throat); gum disease; and an underlying gut problem, such as dysbiosis.Talk to your healthcare provider about next steps. To rule out any tummy troubles, she may set up an appointment with a gastrointestinal specialist; for nasal-related issues, an appointment with an ear, nose and throat specialist may be in order.

Gum disease

If your gums are red and swollen and your sink is dotted with blood after you brush, these could be signs of gum disease. Chew on this: Seven out of 10 Canadians will develop this issue at some point in their lives, making it the most common dental problem. Genetics can play a role, but more often it’s due to poor oral care or dental neglect.Along with professional cleanings and dental exams, proactive prevention is the simplest way to combat it before it dominoes into a bigger problem. If left untreated, bacteria accumulates and breaks down the gum tissue and bone around teeth. This can lead to gum recession, bone loss, stained teeth and eventually tooth loss.The problem doesn’t stop there: “Infections can leak into the bloodstream, leading to other serious conditions,” says Dr. Rouhi. Mounting research has found that the bacteria responsible for gum disease can travel through the body and lead to inflammation of the heart and other organs.

Sores

Cold sores and cankers, although a nuisance, are insignificant and have a short shelf life. However, if you have a lesion that changes in size and shape, isn’t healing and persists for more than two to three weeks, seek professional attention. “Specifically, look for red or white patches and note any burning sensations,” says Dr. Rouhi. These kinds of patches could indicate thrush, mouth cancer or foot and mouth disease. Any lingering lesions should be investigated. Your doctor will swab the area and send it to a lab for further testing.At home, regularly examine your entire mouth, including the tongue, roof and floor and both cheeks. Book regular checkups, and ensure that your dentist is screening for oral cancer. The good news is that when properly dealt with, many conditions heal quickly. “The cells in your mouth reproduce five times faster than other parts of your body,” says Dr. Rouhi. “The rate of cell turnover is a defence mechanism that helps our mouth repair itself rapidly.”RELATED: 5 Bad Oral Health Habits You Need to Break

The post 4 Dental Issues and What They Reveal About Your Health appeared first on Best Health.

So Fresh and So Clean

Powerful whitening cleansers (including baking soda and silica) work to lift stains, while an invigorating spearmint flavour promotes fresh breath.Arm & Hammer Truly Radiant Clean & Fresh Toothpaste, $3 at mass merchandisers

Banish Ban Breath

This cool tool gets at back-of-throat bacteria that your toothbrush can’t.Dentek Orabrush Tongue Cleaner, $6 at amazon.ca

Brush Away Plaque

Gentle on gums, this second iteration of the original ISSA features more power for a better clean. The bristles are unique, including both silicone and polymer in a cross design, to effectively clean heavier plaque buildup.Foreo Issa Hybrid, $229 at beautyboutique.ca and sephora.ca

Whiter, Brighter, Bolder

Smile wide with teeth that are four shades whiter. The latest oral health innovation from Colgate features a formula with Hydrogen Peroxide that whitens teeth in just three days, while anti-cavity fluoride helps protect tooth enamel.Colgate Optic White Platinum High Impact White toothpaste, $3 at mass merchandisers

Airfloss

 Great for those inconsistent with flossing, this high-performance tool uses either mouthwash or water to clean between teeth. You control the power of the stream, and it’s safe to use on orthodontics, veneers, implants and sensitive teeth.Philips Airfloss Pro, $100 at amazon.ca

Two Steps to Whiter Teeth

Check out this two-step toothpaste system that strips plaque using an antimicrobial fluoride known as stannous, before polishing and whitening with a peroxide formula that promises six times whiter teeth in one week.Crest Pro-Health HD, $14 at mass merchandisers

Cavity Protection

This natural mouthwash inhibits plaque and dental cavities up to 80 percent.Xyla Refresh Peppermint Natural Xylitol Mouthwash, $9 at Walmart

Cold Sore Comfort

Cold sores and cankers, although a nuisance, are insignificant and have a short shelf life. Get relief while yours heals with LypSyl.Lypsyl Extreme Cold Sore Relief, $11 at Shopper’s Drug Mart, Walmart and Lawtons

Chew on cinnamon

 Gum, that is. Researchers at the University of Illinois at Chicago found that cinnamon-flavored chewing gum reduces bacteria in the mouth. The reason? The gum contains cinnamic aldehyde (the compound that gives cinnamon it’s flavour and colour), a plant essential oil that inhibits the growth of cavity causing bacteria.Dentyne Cinnamon Gum, $3.50/4-pack at walmart.ca

Sip green tea

Green tea offers a host of oral health benefits, including cavity prevention and fresh breath. One study tested people before and after they gave their mouths a five-minute rinse with green tea. The test subjects had less bacteria and acid in their mouths, as well as reduced gum bleeding. Other research has found that drinking green tea shows promise when it comes to preventing tooth decay.Silk Dragon Jasmine loose leaf tea, $8/50g at davidstea.com

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Adult Orthodontics

More adults are getting wise to the fact that orthodontic treatment isn’t just for kids. “We’re seeing a definite increase in adult orthodontics these days,” says Dr. Paul Major, chair of the University of Alberta’s School of Dentistry and past-president of the Canadian Association of Orthodontists. According to this association, adults now account for more than one-quarter of all Canadians with braces.Adults may be interested in braces for cosmetic or oral health reasons. Orthodontic work can give you a youthful-looking smile, but Dr. Major explains that it may also improve tooth function, gum health and even sleep apnea. And with today’s breakthroughs, there are more treatment options than ever before. That’s encouraging because adults typically wear braces for two years – sometimes longer. Here are some of the more popular choices.

Lingual Braces such as SureSmile QT, Incognito

Forget clunky-looking train tracks; lingual braces, which have been widely used in Canada for the past five years, hide behind your teeth. Like conventional braces, they are made of metal but are attached to the back of your teeth instead of the front. Because the insides of our teeth have a lot of individual variability, they’re custom made for each person’s mouth.PROS: They don’t show, but they work just as well as conventional braces. The custom design means a perfect fit.CONS: They can irritate the tongue and interfere with speech.COST: They start at $8,000.FYI: “Anybody in the public eye seems to gravitate toward these,” says Dr. James Posluns, director of clinics at the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Dentistry. “It’s a burgeoning market.” But before you reach for lingual braces, find out how long your ortho has been using them. “The more experienced the practitioner, the better,” says Dr. Posluns. “In the right hands, they’re very precise and the results are excellent.”

Clear Aligners such as Invisalign, Red White Blue

Available for the past 15 years, these clear plastic trays fit over your teeth, gradually repositioning them as you replace each tray with the next one in your customized series.PROS: They are practically invisible and can be removed for eating and teeth cleaning (though you have to keep them on at night).CONS: Since they’re easily removable, it takes a lot of compliance, says Dr. Posluns. If you’re tempted to take them out often, they won’t work to their full potential.COST: They start at $6,000.FYI: They’re best suited to those whose teeth don’t need a lot of correction around the foundation but need their alignment adjusted. “They can tip teeth, but they’re not as effective as fixed brackets and wires at controlling where the root is moving,” says Dr. Major.

Self-Ligating Braces such as In-Ovation, Damon

Each bracket has a tiny stainless steel or nickel-titanium alloy clip to hold the wire instead of a rubber band. The wire can move more freely and there’s less friction with the brackets, so teeth are able to slide along the wire easily and move to new positions. They have been in Canada for more than 20 years but have been popular only within the past 10 years. The technology continues to be tweaked.PROS: With no rubber bands, they’re easier to clean.CONS: With more delicate parts, they may be more prone to breakage.COST: They start at $5,000.FYI: In theory, teeth shift more quickly without the friction of elastics, which is beneficial at the beginning of treatment when aligning crooked teeth. Clinicians will tell you that they don’t see much of a difference in practice. “It really just comes down to practitioner preference and what they like to use,” says Dr. Posluns.

What else is new in adult orthodontics?

3-D ImagingAdvances in laser scanning mean that lingual braces and plastic aligner trays can custom fit your teeth from a 3-D virtual model of your mouth. Parts are manufactured in a step-by-step sequence based on a computer simulation. These orthodontic options cost more because they’re custom made, but that’s why your braces fit you to a tee.WiresSome of today’s nickel-titanium alloy wires are engineered to change from soft to springy with body temperature – this means that the wire has shape memory and will deliver a consistent, slow, gentle force conducive to tooth movement. As a result, it can stay in the mouth for a longer time – often up to 10 or 12 weeks at some stages of treatment instead of the maximum of six weeks that is standard between appointments, when stainless steel wire is used. “We don’t need to see patients as often at some stages of treatment,” explains Dr. Major. The wires are also gentler and more comfortable.MicropulsesAcceleDent is a hands-free, home-use device that was approved by Health Canada in April 2013. It sends small vibrations through your teeth and bone when you bite into it. Its makers claim that using it regularly with your braces – about 20 minutes a day – can speed up bone formation and reduce the time you need to wear braces. Does it work? Theoretically, it could, but more clinical evidence is needed.Conventional braces are still the most common option for straightening your teeth. Stainless steel brackets are glued to the front of your teeth and connected by springy wires that are held on with tiny rubber bands, which pressure your teeth to move. The pressure is adjusted roughly every four to six weeks up to 10 to 12 weeks, after your teeth have had time to shift and there has been bone regrowth to support them. “The traditional train tracks are still a big part of orthodontic treatment today,” says Dr. Major. The cost? About $5,000 and up (depending on where you live in Canada).

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Source: The Amazing Healing Powers of Nature, Reader’s Digest

What is clove oil?

Clove oil is a common essential oil that can be purchased in most pharmacies, often in the first aid section. It is used as a local anesthetic for toothaches, as well as to help prevent stomach ulcers. Clove oil has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, as well as possible anticancer activity.

What are commonly referred to as cloves are the dried unopened flower buds of the clove tree; the tree’s buds, stems and leaves are also used to make clove oil. The main component of clove oil, and the compound that carries clove’s characteristic aroma, is eugenol.

Clove oil for tooth pain

Pharmacies sell a range of eugenol-containing products aimed at soothing dental pain. You can also make your own toothache-easing mixture by crushing cloves in a pestle and mortar and adding a little olive oil.

These measures are designed to give only temporary relief, however, and it is important to seek professional dental care as soon as possible. Note, too, that clove oil and products containing eugenol can cause irritation in some people and that, in large amounts, clove oil is toxic when taken internally.

Medical studies and research on clove oil

Several research teams have found that eugenol is potently antibacterial and antioxidant, a fact that accounts for clove’s use as a food preservative.

Clove oil’s effectiveness as a local anesthetic has been investigated in several studies: in a 2006 study at Kuwait University, for example, clove oil worked as well as the synthetic local anesthetic benzocaine at numbing the pain of toothache.

In 2011, researchers at the University of Vale do Itaja', Brazil, found that clove enhances the production of mucus in the stomach lining, protecting against stomach ulcers. It is also an expectorant, encouraging the production of mucus in the respiratory system, and so eases coughing.

Clove oil and cancer

It has long been suspected that clove may have anticancer effects’and modern science seems to be confirming that. In 2006 researchers at the Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute in India reported that eugenol inhibits the growth of lung cancer tumours in mice, and a 2011study conducted at the IILM Institute, India, found that in the laboratory clove oil caused cancer cells to self-destruct while leaving normal blood cells unscathed. Research is ongoing.

Did you know?

‘ Clove oil has been used for centuries by Ayurvedic healers in India to treat respiratory and digestive ailments.
‘ Native to Indonesia, cloves are now also cultivated in Sri Lanka and East Africa.

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Source: Best Health magazine, March/April 2015

"You need to get a gum graft," my dentist told me.This was not surprising news since I have been well aware of how much my lower gums have receded, particularly on my incisors. It has left my teeth incredibly sensitive and me rather self-conscious.

Let’s face it: We all want healthy teeth that last us a lifetime. There is nothing appealing about the thought of chompers in a glass with your name on it. Thankfully, modern dentistry has come a long way: Canadians are, in fact, keeping their pearly whites longer than ever before, largely due to the effects of fluoride, as well as better maintenance and oral hygiene.

That said, there are still common dental risks that pop up from time to time. Here’s what you need to know to prevent problems and keep your smile bright.

Gum recession

Cause: While I knew my lower gums were receding, I didn’t realize my particular cause: clenching and grinding at night. The repeated added pressure on my teeth had this negative impact on my gums. But that’s not the only thing that can cause gums to recede.

"The two principal causes are toothbrush abrasion and chronic gum disease," explains Dr. Euan Swan, manager of dental programs at the Canadian Dental Association in Ottawa. Toothbrush abrasion is common in younger patients, he says. People who scrub their teeth with hard-bristled brushes can end up having their gum tissue recede from the tooth, thereby exposing the root surface. The other type, chronic gum disease, is a result of people losing the bone that supports their teeth. As bone loss occurs, the overlying gums will recede.

Cure: If aggressive brushing is the culprit, Dr. Swan says the solution is to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and change the way you brush from a scrubbing back-and-forth motion to a shorter up-and-down motion. For chronic gum disease, see your dentist and get regular cleanings to reduce inflammation and halt the loss of supporting bone. And don’t forget to floss.

For those of us whose gums are too far gone, there is grafting. This process requires a visit to an oral surgeon, who takes tissue from the roof of your mouth and attaches it to your recessed gums. The procedure is done under local anesthetic, and both sites heal over six weeks.

Caution: Left untreated, gum recession can lead to notched teeth as you erode the root surface. Eventually, your teeth will become mobile, meaning you’ll end up losing teeth, either because they fall out or you need them removed because they are too loose.

Gingivitis

Cause: Are you spitting blood along with saliva when you brush your teeth? That’s a classic sign of gingivitis, inflamed gum tissue caused by a buildup of plaque around the teeth.

Cure: "Gingivitis is reversible," says Dr. Swan, "so if you clean the area, remove the debris and practise good oral hygiene, the gingivitis will disappear." The best place to start is with your dental hygienist, who will scale and clean your teeth to remove the calculus (also known as tartar) and then give you some instructions about proper oral hygiene. At home, you need to brush more regularly, floss and consider an antibacterial oral rinse.

Caution: "The risk of doing nothing is that you may develop chronic gum disease," warns Dr. Swan. "That results in the loss of bone support to the tooth and receding gums." Plus, inflamed red gums are neither comfortable nor attractive.

Canker sores

Cause: According to Dr. Swan, no one actually knows what causes those little sore spots that crop up on your tongue or inside your cheek. "It’s thought that trauma to the tissue or foods that maybe irritate the surface of the cheeks can contribute to them," he says.

Cure: "The good news is, although canker sores are irritating and sore, they’re going to heal in about 10 to 14 days, whatever you do," says Dr. Swan. That said, you don’t have to suffer while you wait. "There are some over-the-counter protective gels and ointments that you can try to cover them with," he says. "But during those 10 to 14 days, if you avoid foods that irritate them, like hot and spicy foods, you’ll be more comfortable."

Caution: The odd canker sore that clears up on its own is no cause for concern. But, says Dr. Swan, if you’re getting them regularly, or if a given canker sore lingers for two weeks, it’s time to see a dentist. "It may be something that needs attention," he says. "A lesion that’s there for a long time may be a precursor to oral cancer." Canker-like sores may also be a symptom of Crohn’s disease.

Bad breath

Cause: That strong morning brew, that garlicky Caesar salad, that tasty tuna sandwich ‘ all harbingers of halitosis, or bad breath. But why? It can be as simple as the foods you eat: As you digest foods like as onions, garlic and spices, they enter your bloodstream and are carried to your lungs, affecting your breath. It can also stem from poor oral hygiene, says Dr. Swan.

The same holds true for infamous "morning breath," which Dr. Swan explains is mostly caused by the decrease in saliva flow at night, which, in turn, means food particles stay in the mouth. "As a result, the oral bacteria proliferate and produce an odour," he says.

Cure: For the short term, swish twice daily with mouthwash. There’s more choice than ever, so opt for a multi-tasker, such as a product that fights bad breath and gingivitis or doubles as a tooth whitener. For longer-term relief that goes beyond dealing with your lunchtime onion rings, the best way to banish bad breath is to clean it out. That includes brushing your tongue while brushing your teeth, says Dr. Swan. "Brushing the surface of your tongue can be helpful because some people have fissures on their tongues, and food and debris can collect in the fissures and cause a smell."

Caution: If your mouth is as clean as a whistle and your bad breath persists, it’s time to see your healthcare practitioner. Some medications can lead to halitosis by drying out your mouth or causing your body to release odour-causing chemicals. As well, some diseases and metabolic disorders can cause bad breath, so don’t ignore a lingering odour.

Yellow teeth

Cause: Is your grin less than pearly white? Consider your diet. "Tea, coffee, certain foods ‘ anything that would stain your kitchen sink could stain your teeth," says Dr. Swan. But that’s not the only cause. "As we age, our teeth naturally darken and appear more yellow," he says. That’s because as we lose tooth enamel, the dentin inside the tooth becomes more visible.

Cure: With surface staining, you could limit foods known to discolour teeth or use a straw to prevent liquids from touching your teeth. Getting your teeth cleaned regularly by a professional hygienist will also help keep stains at bay. If you’re looking to brighten your smile, there are all kinds of whitening products available at the drugstore and from dentists themselves. Chat with your pharmacist or dentist to find a product that would be appropriate for you, but keep in mind that some stains can’t be removed (such as ones caused by tetracycline, a type of antibiotic), and the same goes for discolouration after a root canal. If your yellowing teeth are simply due to the aging process, you might want to consider crowns or veneers.

Caution: Some whitening products can create tooth sensitivity or irritate gum tissue, warns Dr. Swan. He suggests proceeding conservatively: Start with a good cleaning; if the results aren’t white enough, try bleaching. And remember, if you decide on crowns and veneers, they come with an end date, so be prepared to replace them down the road.

As with all oral health concerns, your best defence is always good oral hygiene coupled with regular visits to the dentist ‘ a combination that’s sure to keep you smiling.

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Tip 1: Start super-soon

The Canadian Dental Association recommends that babies see a dentist within six months of cutting their first tooth or by one year of age, whichever comes first. “A lot of parents are surprised by that,” says Dr. Diederik Millenaar, a pediatric dentist in Vancouver. “But the baby teeth are going to last, in some cases, up to 12 or 13 years, so we need to establish good oral habits.”

An early visit gives the dentist an opportunity to teach parents how to brush properly and plan tooth-friendly meals and snacks. And it’s a chance to spot – and fix – any trouble that’s brewing. In fact, the earlier children start seeing a dentist, the more likely they are to avoid dental problems.

Tip 2: Examine your infant at home

Your kid will be more comfortable having her teeth checked in a dentist’s office if she’s already experienced it at home. Take time to peer into her mouth regularly. That can be hard to do with an infant, but try using the knee-to-knee technique: Sit facing another adult with your knees touching and lay your baby in the other adult’s lap to have a good look. At this age, even if she has no teeth, you should be wiping her gums gently with a clean wet washcloth after meals. You can also stimulate her mouth with a small, soft brush. All of this manhandling will prepare her for the professionals.

Tip 3: Let your kid tag along with you…maybe

Bringing your baby to your own dental appointments may be a good idea, because it can get him familiar with the setting and staff. But first, consider this: Is your child going to share your dentist, or will he see a pediatric dentist who specializes in treating pint-sized patients? Is your dentist’s office kid-friendly enough to make him comfortable? Are you overly anxious when you have a dental appointment? If you are, it’s best not to subject your sweetie to your own angst.

Tip 4: Prep at home for the visit

Before your child’s first dentist appointment, give her an idea what to expect by talking about it in words that she understands – and that won’t terrify her. Telling her the dentist will “count” or “look at” her teeth is sure to go over better than hinting she has a mouthful of decay to be drilled out. Avoid adding “and it’s not going to hurt,” says Dr. Millenaar. “Pediatric dentists don’t like those statements because it proposes the possibility of something in the office hurting, and that only contributes to anxiety.” Play “dentist” with a compliant stuffed animal or doll, and read positive-sounding picture books about dental appointments.

Tip 5: Time it properly

Be sure to schedule all dentist appointments for times when your child will be comfortable, rested and in a good mood. “Children have patterns of good and cranky behaviour at different times of the day,” says Dr. Millenaar. “You don’t want to bring them when they’re hungry or tired.” For obvious reasons, avoid giving your kid caffeine or sugar before the visit. And if you can, arrive early. “It allows children to play with toys in the waiting room and get used to the whole environment.”

Tip 6: Keep it positive

You don’t have to be over-the-top gushy, but do keep an upbeat attitude when you’re talking about the dentist, and on the day of the visit. Treat the appointment as something simple, routine and positive. “If you do that, your child is going to have a much, much better attitude towards the dentist and the whole dental experience,” says Dr. Millenaar. It may help to bring along a comfort item for your child, like a blankie or a favourite teddy.

Tip 7: Know when to quit

Despite your best efforts, it’s natural for your one-year-old to get anxious or upset when he’s in the hot seat. In most cases, it’s likely to pass. But if he just won’t stop screaming, don’t force the issue. It’s better for everyone if you try again another time.

What if you want your child to see a dentist but financial constraints are holding you back? Some regions of Canada have help available. In Manitoba, dentists offer a free first appointment for children under three. Ontario’s Peel Region offers no-cost dental screening to kids who qualify. Check with your provincial dental association to find out what programs might be available in your area.

Related:
How often should you see your dentist?
5 foods your dentist wants you to avoid
5 dental symptoms you shouldn’t ignore

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Source: Best Health magazine, November/December 2013; Image: Thinkstock

Drinking red wine through a straw to keep your teeth white has become a mini trend’there’s at least one company making ‘wine straws’ out of thick clear plastic. (What next?!) But can drinking pop or sugary drinks through a straw actually protect your teeth from cavities and stains? ‘It will minimize contact with your teeth,’ says Dr. Euan Swan, manager of dental programs at the Canadian Dental Association. But there is still going to be some exposure to your back molars. ‘Pop and juice can also be acidic and cause erosion of the tooth,’ says Swan.

Whether or not you use a straw, if you brush your teeth immediately after having acidic foods or drinks you could be damaging the tooth surface. Swan suggests you wait 30 minutes before brushing. Meantime, ‘chewing sugar-free gum will stimulate saliva, which helps balance and neutralize the acid in your mouth.’

This article originally appeared in the Nov/Dec 2013 issue of Best Health. Subscribe today to get the full Best Health experience’and never miss an issue!

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Habits that harm your oral health

It’s common knowledge that smoking, teeth grinding, and sloppy dental hygiene can negatively impact the health of your mouth, but they’re not the only behaviours that can spell trouble for your teeth and gums. Do you have other habits prompting cavities, oral infections and costly dental repairs? Here are seven things that can ruin your teeth.

1. Using your teeth as tools

Do you tear open bags of potato chips, or twist off bottle caps with your teeth? Using your mouth in lieu of a pair of scissors or a bottle opener might seem like a convenient shortcut, but it could actually land you in the dentist‘s chair. “You shouldn’t use your teeth to open bottles, or to rip open packages,” says Dr. Euan Swan, manager of dental programs at the Canadian Dental Association. “There’s the potential to fracture a tooth. If you’re using a back tooth, you could damage a filling or crown.” Tooth chips, cracks, and fractures can create openings for tooth decay to take hold. In serious cases, a broken tooth may have to be permanently removed, and replaced with a dental implant.

2. Tongue, lip or cheek piercings

Facial piercings might be trendy when you’re younger, but the health concerns that they spark are not. Swan says that stud or ring piercings can create complications such as infection, bleeding and swelling of the tongue, or nearby tissues. Echoing his concern, the Canadian Dental Association (CDA) states on its website that tongue, cheek or lip jewellery can cause ‘chronic injury to adjacent teeth and mucosa (inside of cheeks, lips, taste buds), including tooth fracture, and gum recession, which can lead to tooth loss.’ Individuals with oral jewellery must be extra careful to avoid the damage that biting a piercing can cause, and should discuss oral management with their dentist.

3. Playing sports without a mouthguard

It’s common to see professional athletes in football, hockey and boxing wearing mouthguards, but oral protection is also important for recreational athletes of all ages. “In any sport where you could potentially be hit in the face, a mouthguard is a good thing,” says Swan. Different styles of mouthguards are available, ranging from the cheapest option – ‘boil-and-bite’ mouthguards that you can make at home with DIY kits – to customized guards created by your dentist. This version is pricier, but offers an exact fit as well as comfort and protection. Not sure if you need one? Put your money where your mouth is – the cost of fixing damaged teeth will be considerably higher than the price of a mouthguard.

4. Chewing ice cubes

Crunching ice cubes can chip away at the enamel of your teeth, or cause a tooth to break. And if your mouth is home to several fillings, an icy snack can be even more perilous. “If a tooth has a filling, its strength is compromised to a degree. If you chomp down on ice, you could damage the tooth,” says Swan.

5. Sucking on throat lozenges

When a cold or sore throat strikes, the first line of defense is often a cough drop, but tossing back lozenges can set you up for tooth decay. Despite being considered medicinal, some cough drops are loaded with sugar. “If you’re continually sucking on lozenges, you’ll have a high level of sugar in your mouth,” says Swan. “Sugary foods contribute to tooth decay.” To spare your smile – and relieve uncomfortable cold symptoms – read the ingredient labels on lozenges to find a brand that’s low in sugar.

6. Bleaching your teeth despite irritation

According to the CDA’s website, bleaching your teeth – either at home, or in the dentist’s office – is a safe way to achieve a bright, white smile, however, science has yet to figure out how much whitening is too much. It’s believed that excessive bleaching could cause tooth pitting and nerve damage, but additional research is needed to confirm these complications. In the meantime, Swan says that it’s important for users to note that even when bleaching instructions are followed, some irritation of gum tissue, and tooth sensitivity could occur. The key is to stop the bleaching process if these side effects don’t subside. To lower your risk of further complications, see your dentist for advice on how to proceed.

7. Brushing immediately after consuming acidic foods

“If you’re consuming food and drink that is acidic (such as orange juice), it can contribute to a softening of tooth structure,” says Swan. “If you immediately brush your teeth, the abrasion of the toothbrush on the softened enamel can cause some damage.” To avoid this risk, Swan recommends waiting about 30 minutes before brushing your teeth. This time frame gives the saliva in your mouth a chance to wash away lurking food debris and acids. Can’t wait 30 minutes? Chew sugarless gum. It will stimulate saliva production, and help freshen your breath until you can brush your teeth.

Related:
7 things you need to know before you whiten your teeth
The latest breakthroughs in oral health
6 unusual ways to clean your teeth

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Smart mouth

Yes, we need to take care of our teeth for health’s sake. But let’s face it: We all want our teeth to look their best, too. So it’s no wonder Canadians are scrambling to improve theirs-right from home. While cosmetic dentistry procedures have declined by 10 percent since 2007, the at-home oral care market is growing and is projected to reach $1.1 billion by 2016. “Manufacturers are making products that were previously available only through dental offices,” says Dr. Benoit Soucy, director of clinical and scientific affairs at the Canadian Dental Association.

One such company is Procter & Gamble (P&G), whose Crest toothpaste first came on the market nearly 60 years ago (today, their various products are under the Crest, Scope and Oral-B brands). “We’ve been at the forefront of innovation in oral care for a very long time,” Dr. Svetlana Farrell, head of the oral care clinical operations department, told me on a recent visit Best Health made to the P&G headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio. “Just developing a new toothpaste can take more than a decade.” That’s one reason they have more than 1,000 Ph.D.s among the 8,000 research and development employees worldwide.

Read on to learn about some of the newest breakthroughs in oral health, coming soon to a bathroom near you.

For fresher breath

“The biggest cause of halitosis? The bacteria that break down the food particles left between teeth,” says Dr. Rick Caldwell, president of the Ontario Dental Association. But even after brushing and flossing, certain foods, such as onions and garlic, can be the problem. Enter new technology: for example, Scope Dual-Blast mouthwash ($4, 750 mL). “It contains a proprietary technology that traps [and neutralizes] the bad-smelling volatile sulfur compounds, or VSCs, that come from odour-emitting foods,” says Dr. Veronica Sanchez, global oral care scientific communications manager at P&G. During laboratory tests, researchers used an instrument called a Halimeter to determine the VSC levels in subjects’ mouths. They also use “human oral malodour judges.”

Explains Sanchez, “These are people with trained biological ‘noses’ who are experts at smelling other people’s mouths.” (Nice work if you can get it?) Thanks to their high degree of sensory acuity, they can detect and rank breath quality in the same way a perfumer can recognize traces of a certain note in perfume-except without the pleasant payoff. The rinse also eliminates up to 98 percent of bacteria, thanks to an ammonium compound with antiseptic properties.

Listerine UltraClean Mouthwash ($7, 1 L) kills up to 99.9 percent of bad breath germs using eucalyptol, menthol and thymol essential oils in an alcohol base. “The alcohol is not an active ingredient,” explains Christine Charles, director of strategy and communications, scientific and professional affairs, at Johnson & Johnson. “It acts as a carrier vehicle for the oils, helping them to penetrate the plaque, and kill bacteria faster.” The mouthwash also has Listerine’s new Everfresh technology, a combination of proprietary ingredients that delivers the same clean sensation you get after a trip to the dentist, along with fresh breath that lasts up to three times longer than brushing alone.

But mouthwash can’t replace regular brushing and flossing. “If your teeth are not well-cleaned, you’ll have bad breath no matter which mouthwash you use,” says Soucy. Unless you wear braces, use regular dental floss (water and air flossing systems may not be as good at getting in nooks and crannies), and brush the insides of your cheeks and your tongue. “If you clean your whole mouth and not just your teeth, it’ll take longer before the biofilm re-establishes itself.”

For better brushing

Brushing with a manual toothbrush? You’re not alone-71 percent of Canadians still use them, according to a 2013 survey. But you might want to reconsider. A 2009 research report concluded mechanical toothbrushes are superior to manual ones for removing plaque and protecting against gum inflammation.

P&G researchers delved deeper into this finding at their Insights Suite in Cincinnati, where they do focus-group testing. I saw this facility; it includes a comfy living area and stocked three-piece bathroom, designed to help participants feel as if they are in their own homes. It was here that P&G discovered why some people weren’t switching to mechanical toothbrushes. “They prefer to feel in control of the brush; they like a larger brush head; and they want to brush more than one tooth at a time,” says Sanchez. (Many electric toothbrushes focus on each individual tooth for five to 10 seconds; a manual tooth brush covers more teeth.)

The result of those findings is the Oral-B Professional Deep Sweep + SmartGuide Triaction 5000 ($185), which uses both stationary and sweeping bristles on a manual-style head to make for an easy transition to power brushing. “It looks and feels just like a manual version, but the sweeping action removes 100 percent more plaque,” says Sanchez.

Soucy and Caldwell, both dentists, insist a good brushing technique is key. Whether it’s a mechanical or manual device, the brush should be labelled “soft” to avoid damaging enamel and irritating your gums; hold it at a 45-degree angle and gently brush in short strokes from where the tooth and gum meet to the edge of the tooth, for two to three minutes at least twice daily.

For healthier teeth

“Look, Ma-no cavities!” was the slogan for the first Crest advertising campaign in 1956, illustrated by Norman Rockwell. Formulated with stannous fluoride, and the first toothpaste to be clinically proven to help prevent cavities and tooth decay, it was considered a scientific breakthrough.

“Fluoride works on the surface of teeth to protect them and make them less susceptible to the acid breakdown that leads to cavities,” says Caldwell. After problems with stability (a short shelf-life), Crest replaced its stannous fluoride with sodium fluoride in the early 1980s. “But stannous fluoride forms a layer where the roots of teeth are exposed to the environment, reducing sensitivity,” says Farrell. And its antimicrobial properties help prevent gingivitis and plaque.

Crest’s Pro-Health range of pastes is the result of a 12-year mission by P&G scientists to perfect a stabilized stannous fluoride formulation. The newest offering, Crest Pro-Health Clinical Plaque Control Toothpaste ($3, 115 mL) is aimed at improving gum health. “We know that up to 50 percent of the population has gingivitis, a reversible condition that if left untreated can lead to periodontal disease and lost teeth,” says Farrell. Its level of stannous fluoride kills off plaque germs and slows their ability to reproduce while preventing cavities and reducing sensitivity.

Along with fluoride toothpaste, certain foods can also help you build healthier teeth, says Caldwell. “Eat foods rich in calcium and phosphorus such as eggs, beef, chicken, turkey, fish and bread. And avoid highly processed and sweetened foods, whose debris contributes to decay.”

Related:
5 things your toothbrush wants you to know
Quiz: Do you have sensitive teeth?
6 reasons why your gums are bleeding

The post The latest breakthroughs in oral health appeared first on Best Health.

1. Seek cinnamon

Researchers at the University of Illinois at Chicago found that cinnamon-flavored chewing gum reduces bacteria in the mouth. The reason? The gum contains cinnamic aldehyde (the compound that gives cinnamon it’s flavour and colour), a plant essential oil that inhibits the growth of cavity causing bacteria.

2. Eat foods that scrub

Foods that are firm or crisp help to clean the teeth as they’re eaten. Maintain healthy teeth on the go by enjoying apples, carrots, celery, and unsweetened popcorn. For best results, make these “detergent” foods the final course in your meal.

3. Drink a cup of tea

Flavonoids in tea help to prevent harmful bacteria from sticking to teeth, and also block production of a type of sugar that contributes to cavities. Tea also contains high amounts of fluoride which strengthens teeth.

4. Grab some alcohol-free mouthwash

Giving the mouth a thorough rinse after meals can make a world of difference. Choose alcohol-free mouthwash since some studies suggest a link between mouthwash containing alcohol and an increased risk of oral cancer.

5. Hydrate your mouth

Drink a glass of water for every hour that you’re at work. The more water you drink, the more bacteria you flush off your teeth and out of your mouth, which means less risk of gum disease, fewer cavities, and fresher breath.

6. Chew gum with xylitol

If you want to reduce the bad bacteria in your mouth, you should be all over xylitol (a sugar substitute found in chewing gum). A few pieces a day changes the chemistry of your mouth and can help keep cavities away.

Related:
7 ways oral health affects overall health
5 foods your dentist wants you to avoid
5 ways green tea is good for your oral health

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