The health of our teeth and the oral cavity as a whole is a very important factor for overall well-being. But most of us are very afraid of dentists and avoid even consulting them. If you are one of them, then this article will be useful to you. We have collected four questions that you may have been afraid to ask your dentist.
1. Is home teeth whitening safe?
The main ingredient in tooth whitening kits is carbamide peroxide, which decomposes in the mouth with hydrogen peroxide. This chemical doesn’t increase the risk of developing oral cancer, which previously caused concern. But many people who performed teeth whitening report that it can temporarily make your teeth more sensitive.
The hydrogen peroxide in whitening kits is absorbed through the protective coating of the enamel and the softer dentin layer underneath, irritating the nerve pulp. That’s why your teeth may become sensitive. Tiny cracks and holes along dental fillings can increase your chances of tooth sensitivity. Some people who use whitening kits also feel short gum irritation but it eliminates in a few days or a week.
2. Is daily flossing essential?
Yes, if you want to have healthy teeth and body. Flossing between teeth will not only remove the food stuck there from lunch but will also help protect against gum disease and more serious health issues. Dental floss helps fight bacteria that can cause chronic inflammation throughout the body, which is a serious risk factor for cardiovascular disease, stroke, and lung disease.
By the way, the statement that claims that a mouth rinse is as good as flossing is not right. It was widespread because one study sponsored by the owner of the well-known antiseptic mouthwash showed that their rinse is better than dental floss. But more recent studies have found that a dental care procedure involving brushing, flossing and antiseptic mouthwash reduces plaque by 50 percent, which is better than dental floss or mouthwash alone.
3. What to do if my gums are bleeding after brushing? Is it a sign of gum disease?
One of the possible causes of bleeding gums can be a super-stiff toothbrush. Or you simply brush them too hard. Bleeding gums can also be caused by taking medicines or blood thinners like warfarin, aspirin, or coenzyme Q10. Gums can bleed because you don’t get rid of all the plaque on the gum line. Regular flossing in addition to brushing is the best way to improve the condition.
4. Brushing, flossing, and mouthwash can’t help me get rid of my bad breath. What should I do?
Bad breath is usually caused by bacteria that eat leftover food in your mouth and then release unpleasantly smelling sulfur compounds. Tongue cleansing removes little food particles and releases some of these microbes before they can “smell” again. Studies show that people who brush their teeth and tongue twice a day reduced the amount of sulfur content in their mouth.
Mouthwashes that contain a microbial-fighting ingredient such as chlorhexidine, chlorine dioxide, cetylpyridinium chloride or zinc lactate are also very effective. If these methods aren't working, pay attention to what you eat. Onions and garlic contain aromatic oils that enter the blood when digested and can be released in the lungs and spoil your breath for 3 days. But constant bad breath can be a signal of gum disease, sinus infection, tonsillitis, and a large number of different diseases that are hiding in your body.
I am Amelia Grant, journalist, and blogger. I think that information is a great force that is able to change people’s lives for the better. That is why I feel a strong intention to share useful and important things about health self-care, wellness and other advice that may be helpful for people. Being an enthusiast of a healthy lifestyle that keeps improving my life, I wish the same for everyone.