Month: August 2019

Cleaning the tongue helps play an important role in oral health, as well as your overall health. The tongue if not cleaned can host bacteria which affects your digestive tract when swallowed with food.

Key takeaways:

• A biofilm forms on the tongue if it is not cleaned, which creates the environment for bacteria to thrive.
• You can use a tongue cleaner tool or a metal spoon, bowl facing down, to clean the tongue.
• Use a gentle pressure when scraping the tongue clean, rinsing off the tool you use between each scraping.

“When the tongue isn’t cleaned regularly, it creates a low-oxygen environment where bacteria like Klebsiella can thrive. In fact, the majority of the microbes in our mouths live on our tongue.”

Read the full story here

https://orawellness.com/tongue-cleaning-importance/

Porcelain and acrylic false teeth are similar in price and have different pros and cons:

– Acrylic dentures are quieter when chewing, look slightly more natural than porcelain dentures, and are more suitable for those with bone loss; however, they will wear out more quickly.

– Acrylic dentures will need soaking overnight to remove bacteria; porcelain dentures are more delicate and need careful handling during cleaning to avoid chips.

– Your dentist will be happy to discuss which option is best for you.

Selection of the most appropriate material for your needs involves careful consideration of wear, durability and maintenance.

Read the full story here: https://www.livestrong.com/article/291153-porcelain-vs-acrylic-teeth/

As well as new uniforms, stationery and booster shots, a regular dental check-up should be part of back to school preparations:

– Many children are suffering from untreated tooth decay; dental pain can affect eating, playing, learning and lead to missed school.

– Regular checkups at the dentist can diagnose any problems early and they can provide mouthguards for your child if they play contact sports.

– Make sure brushing their teeth with fluoride toothpaste is part of their daily routine.

“Parents and teachers may not realize there’s a dental problem, so regular checkups are important.”

Read the full story here:

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/basics/dental-visits/ada-08-consumer-news-back-to-school

Brushing the teeth twice daily is the recommended norm by most dental professionals but the quality of brushing is equally, if not more, important. Many people tend to hurry the procedure, fail to brush correctly or use the wrong toothbrush. 

A dentist can advise you as to which toothbrush is best and how to clean the teeth properly but the basic guidelines are:

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush

• Use small circular motions not back and forth

• Never brush too aggressively

Proper brushing should take “between two and three minutes” and toothbrushes should be replaced every three months or when worn or frayed. More tips on proper dental care can be found at https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324708.php.