Medications and the Effects on the Oral Cavity

Post by: Gerarda on 23 Aug 2022

Medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, painkillers, diuretics and even radiation therapy for cancer can cause the salivary glands to reduce saliva production in the mouth. Saliva controls the number of bacteria and fungi in the mouth and help wash away any remaining particles of food after eating or drinking.

Medications can have various negative effects on the oral cavity. Some common effects include dry mouth, which can lead to tooth decay and other oral health issues, as well as changes in taste and an increase in plaque and tartar build-up. Certain medications can also cause inflammation or discoloration of the gums and tongue. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider or dentist about any potential oral side effects of any medications you are taking. They may be able to recommend ways to mitigate these effects or suggest alternative medications.

Commonly used medications & the negative effects on the oral cavity:

Antihistamines – which are commonly used to treat allergies, can cause dry mouth, which can then lead to an increased risk of tooth decay and infection.

Decongestants, which are used to relieve nasal congestion, can also cause dry mouth and a change in taste.

Antidepressants – such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can cause dry mouth and changes in taste, as well as an increased risk of oral infections.

Painkillers, such as opioids, can also cause dry mouth and may lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

Diuretics – which are used to remove excess fluid from the body, can cause dry mouth and an increased risk of tooth decay.

Radiation therapy for cancer – can also affect the oral cavity, causing dry mouth, changes in taste, and an increased risk of tooth decay and infection. It is important for individuals undergoing radiation therapy to maintain good oral hygiene and have regular dental check-ups.

As you can see, many medications can have a significant impact on oral health. It is important to inform your dentist or dental hygienist of any medications you are taking when you have a dental examination / dental check-up, as they can help monitor any potential oral side effects and make recommendations for maintaining your oral health.

Three Types of Dental Imaging

Post by: Gerarda on 27 Jun 2022

The most common x-ray is the periapical or intraoral used in all aspects of dental care. It provides a lot of detail about individual teeth and allows the dentist to diagnose cavities and impacted teeth, check the health of the root of a tooth and the bone surrounding the tooth. The dentist can also see the status of emerging teeth and monitor the overall health of teeth and the jawbone. This is the type of x-ray your dentist will use during a dental examination or if you have a dental emergency.

A panoramic x-ray (OPG) is a 2-D dental x-ray that as the name implies is a single image that captures both the upper and lower jaws. It provides a wide view of the teeth, jaws and surrounding structures and tissues. It correspondingly gives valuable information about the maxillary sinuses, tooth position, tumours and degenerative joint disease. This type of x-ray is needed for planning implants, if there are any bone abnormalities, to assess the need for orthodontic treatment or for full or partial dentures. Panoramic x-rays are not good for detecting small cavities.

Cephalometric x-rays show a complete profile (side view) of your head, showing teeth, jaw, and surrounding structures. This type of x-ray helps a dental professional diagnose and plan treatment.

Cephalometric x-rays may be used to assess:

  • Impacted teeth
  • Problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)
  • Broken teeth or jaws
  • Position of the jaw
  • Some cancers & tumours
  • Orthodontic treatment
  • Sleep apnea

 

In Case of a Dental Emergency

Post by: Gerarda on 01 Dec 2021

1. If you have a knocked-out tooth, hold the tooth by the crown (the part that is normally visible in the mouth) and lick the tooth clean if necessary or rinse off any dirt or debris. Do not touch the root of the tooth. If possible, try to place the tooth back in the socket and hold it in place by biting on a clean gauze or cloth.* If this is not possible, store the tooth in a container of milk until you can get to a dentist. It is important to remember, the sooner a knocked-out tooth is re-implanted, the more likely it is to embed itself back into the gum.

2. For a broken tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to help reduce pain and swelling.

3. If you have a severe toothache, try rinsing your mouth with warm water and gently flossing to remove any food particles that may be lodged between your teeth.

4. In case of severe bleeding, apply pressure to the area with a clean gauze or cloth and seek emergency medical attention.

Phone for a dental appointment. It’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible in case of emergency. If you can’t reach your dentist right away, a visit to the hospital with a dental department is recommended.

* NOTE: Adult teeth only, never try to re-insert a baby tooth

Categories: Broken teeth,Dental appointment,Dental emergency
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Posted on Wednesday 1st December 2021 at 1:27 pm

Manage Tooth Pain & Dental Emergencies

Post by: Gerarda on 02 Nov 2021

Tooth pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including tooth decay, gum disease, abscesses, and injury. To manage tooth pain until you can see your dentist, you can try the following:

1. Over-the-counter pain relief such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen if you are not allergic, can help alleviate pain and inflammation.

2. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help reduce swelling and pain.

3. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to help reduce pain and swelling.

4. Avoid eating or drinking hot or cold foods and liquids as they can exacerbate pain.

5. If the pain persists, or is severe, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible.

In any case make a dental appointment to find out the origins of the pain or swelling so it can be treated in a timely manner.

Categories: Dental appointment,Dental emergency,Dentist,Gum Disease,Tooth decay
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Posted on Tuesday 2nd November 2021 at 10:16 am

Dental Appointment

Post by: Gerarda on 19 Feb 2020

What You Can Do To Prepare

Sometimes it seems that by the time you arrive at your dental appointment the problem has disappeared and then you have forgotten the symptoms you had. Most problems in dentistry do not go away permanently, the symptoms may stop for a while, but they usually come back. So it is beneficial to keep that appointment and not cancel it. To help you get ready for a dental appointment, make a list of:

• Any symptoms you’re experiencing, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason for your appointment
• Important personal information, such as any medical conditions
• Medications you take, including vitamins or other supplements
• Questions to ask your dentist to take full advantage of your time together

Some questions to ask your dentist depending on your issue may include:

• Do you think, for example, gingivitis, caries or an abscess is causing my symptoms?
• Do I need x-rays?
• Is there an alternative to the approach you’re recommending?
• What can I do at home to keep my gums and teeth healthy?
• Do you recommend a particular toothbrush or toothpaste?
• Do you recommend using mouthwash?
• Can I gargle with salt water or should I use a stronger antibacterial mouthwash?
• Are there any restrictions that you would suggest?

Don’t hesitate to ask other questions during your appointment.

Remember to make a note of your symptoms. Note when your symptoms come and go and how long they last. You might be stressed before a dental appointment and if you are in pain as well you might not remember all the things you want to ask. Write them down and take them with you to your appointment.