The Importance of Consulting Your Dentist During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, many hormonal changes take place in your body, elevating the risk of developing oral health problems. Dentists and obstetricians recommend booking an appointment before conceiving. This prevents dental diseases in advance. It is important to consult your dentist during pregnancy to avoid complications during childbirth.  HOW DOES DENTAL HEALTH AFFECT PREGNANCY? Dental health, also called oral health, is the health of your teeth, gums, and mouth. When pregnant, dental health becomes an important part of your prenatal care.  Oral health is directly linked to the general health of your body. Dentists claim that there is a link between dental health and childbirth. Studies show that gum diseases trigger increased levels of biological compounds that induce labor.  HOW CAN YOU ENSURE A SAFE AND HEALTHY PREGNANCY? Dental health is of prime importance during pregnancy. Brush teeth regularly, twice a day. Floss once a day to help get rid of any remains of food particles left after brushing. And more importantly, eat a balanced and nutritious diet and regularly visit your dentist to prevent major oral health problems. Here are other tips: * Use good toothpaste, preferably one that has fluoride  * Use antacids if brushing is impossible due to nausea and vomiting * Avoid smoking  ORAL HEALTH PROBLEMS THAT OCCUR DURING PREGNANCY  Some dental health problems may lead to complications in childbirth like:  * Pregnancy gingivitis: The buildup of plaque on the teeth irritates the gum. Symptoms of pregnancy gingivitis include red, inflamed, and bleeding gums.  * Tooth decay: There are high chances of developing tooth decay due to the unhealthy food cravings that occur during pregnancy. Also, nausea and vomiting conditions make some women do less brushing and flossing.  * Pregnancy tumor (pyogenic granuloma): The gum tissue swells, making it look raw. It usually disappears after pregnancy. If not, consult your dentist immediately. * Loose tooth: It is an uncommon complication that occurs during pregnancy. Due to the increase of certain hormones like estrogen and progesterone, tissues and bones that hold your teeth in place loosen.  VISITING A DENTIST DURING PREGNANCY Visit your dentist during weeks 14 through 20 or the second trimester or early third trimester of your pregnancy. Let your dentist know you’re pregnant. This is so they will know to avoid the use of X-rays, pain medications, antibiotics, and dental anesthetics. Discuss your medical history, past miscarriages if any, and medications with your dentist.  To receive the best dental care, contact us today.

How Does Stress Affect Oral Health?

Stress is a condition that your body experiences in response to an outside stimulus. Stress can be triggered by a number of factors, including work, relationships, finances, health problems, and more. Stress affects the body in many ways, including your oral health. WHAT IS ORAL HEALTH? Your mouth is considered a part of your body and shows evidence of your physical health. Therefore, your oral health is an indicator of your overall health and well-being. If you suffer from health complications such as diabetes or heart disease, it’s more likely that you will also experience additional oral problems. The more risk factors you have for poor oral health, the more likely it is that you will develop an oral infection at some point in your life. The most common types of infections include periodontal (gum) disease, tooth decay and oral cancer. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it’s best to set up an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. When you don’t take care of your mouth, you’re also increasing the risk of a number of serious health issues. Poor oral hygiene is associated with other health problems such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes and pneumonia. Whether stress is a cause or a symptom of these health conditions remains up for debate. However, the relationship between stress and overall health is quite clear. Stress can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to illness. It can also affect certain hormones that manage your appetite. Chronic stress can also make you less likely to exercise and eat healthy foods, which can all increase your risk for diabetes, obesity and other health problems. How Stress Affects Oral Health It’s not completely clear how stress affects oral health, but it can affect the way you care for your teeth. When you’re feeling stressed, you may have trouble sleeping at night, which makes it more difficult to brush and floss your teeth during the day. You may also avoid seeing the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Some common signs of stress-induced oral care issues are teeth grinding, jaw clenching and pulling loose teeth out. All of these can cause damage to the teeth and gums. It’s also possible that stress can contribute to plaque buildup and inflammation in the mouth. This inflammation can lead to gum disease, cavities, bad breath and other issues that are both WHAT IS STRESS? When your body detects a threat or danger, the brain releases hormones that prepare the body to fight or flee from the situation. The release of adrenaline also leads to a surge of energy that helps fuel the escape attempt. Similarly, if someone is extremely excited about something good, the brain will also release these hormones. This is often referred to as “adrenaline rush.” While these are normal reactions that occur when we experience certain emotions, they can also negatively affect our oral health. First of all, when we are under stress, we might not want to brush and floss as frequently or thoroughly as usual, which can lead to tooth decay and/or gum disease. Second, we might also turn to unhealthy habits like smoking, drinking, or using drugs to relax when we feel stressed. These substances can cause dry mouth, which can increase a person’s risk for cavities. Third, increased levels of stress hormones can slow the production of saliva, which can then lead to enamel erosion and even cavities. Fourth, the added pressure on the jaw can lead to bruxism, which is grinding the teeth together at night. Not only can this lead to cracked teeth and other damage, but it can also wear down and damage the protective enamel on tooth surfaces. Bruxism can also cause pain in the temporomandibular joints (TMJs). If you struggle with anxiety or feel stressed out often, talk with your dentist about how you can reduce your stress and its effects on your oral health. He or she may be able to recommend some relaxation techniques or other coping mechanisms. You should also be sure to keep up with your regular visits to the dentist so that he or she can monitor your oral health and address any issues early before they become serious. Author Bio: Dr. Jonathan Wnek has been practicing dentistry for more than 30 HOW DOES STRESS AFFECT ORAL HEALTH? When your body is under stress, it can take a toll on your oral and overall health. This is because cortisol is a hormone that is released when you are under duress. This higher level of cortisol raises your pulse and blood pressure and causes inflammation throughout your mouth. When the gums are inflamed, they make you more susceptible to periodontal diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis. Inflammation can also cause increased gum sensitivity and bleeding when you brush and floss. Additionally, elevated cortisol levels can keep your immune system from functioning properly which puts you at risk for infections like cold sores and herpes simplex. High cortisol levels can also lead to diabetes and heart disease. Finally, because stress increases the amount of plaque that forms on your teeth, it is vital that you maintain good oral hygiene habits during times of stress. Brushing twice daily for two minutes each session and flossing once a day will help to keep bacteria at bay. You should also consider chewing sugar-free gum with xylitol as it can help reduce the acid levels in the mouth that can cause tooth decay. **This blog topic was created in partnership with Dr. Stephen Gruss.** If your dentist diagnosed you with gum disease, then he or she may have recommended periodontal treatment to address it. The purpose of advanced dentistry is to help patients achieve and maintain optimum oral health. If you have questions about how to care for your smile in between visits with your general dentist or periodontist, please contact our office today! Our skilled dental team is happy to answer any questions you have about your oral health during your consultation with us. Give us a call at 703-556-9822 to set up your appointment in Northern Virginia today! -Dr. Pariksith Singh and Dr. Sara Vasavada Dental Implants – The Advantages And Risks Of Having Them was last modified:

CEREC® Crowns As a Last-Minute Christmas Gift

If you’ve waited until the last minute to buy a gift for that special someone, consider giving them the gift of a new smile this holiday season! CEREC, or Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics, is a method of creating tooth-colored dental crowns and fillings at the dentist’s office in only one visit. In a traditional crown procedure, the patient must wear a temporary restoration for a couple of weeks until the permanent crown is completed. With CEREC technology, however, patients can have their crowns completed in a single appointment! A skilled cosmetic dentist will scan the damaged tooth and surrounding tissues using a computer and milling machine to design and fabricate a crown that fits perfectly to the patient’s smile. Our dentist in Murrieta can complete your CEREC dental crown in just one visit to our dental office. CEREC crowns provide several advantages over traditional lab-created crowns. * First, you avoid the hassle of scheduling multiple appointments for the fabrication and placement of a crown. Instead, the entire procedure can be completed in a single visit. The patient comes in to have a damaged tooth repaired or restored, then leaves with a beautiful new crown! This is especially beneficial if the patient is receiving the crown after a root canal treatment, as they’re already coming in for a restorative appointment. With CEREC, there’s no need to come back for a second appointment. * Second, CEREC delivers high-quality results. Because CEREC uses 3D imaging technology to create restorations completely in-house, it can create highly precise dental crowns. When these restorations are being created in the dental office where the patient receives them, there’s no need to worry about the quality of the materials or the skill level of the technician. Your loved one will receive natural-looking, beautiful results that can last for a long time with proper oral care and routine visits to the dentist. * Third, CEREC provides faster results than a traditional crown procedure. While normal lab-made porcelain crowns can take up to two weeks to be created and shipped to the dental office where they will be fitted, same-day CEREC crowns can be created in about an hour! This means your loved one can have their new crown as soon as possible, making it easier than ever to restore their beautiful smile just in time for the holidays. * Finally, because CEREC is able to provide quicker results, it’s also typically less expensive than a traditional crown procedure. Because patients don’t need to take multiple trips to receive and fit their crowns, the procedure is often more cost-effective. If you’re thinking about getting your loved one a CEREC crown, call our dental office and schedule an appointment with us.

Why Choose Dental Implants to Replace Teeth?

At Todd Curley D.D.S., dental implants are small titanium rods surgically inserted into the jawbone to act as the root of a tooth. After the implant has been placed, a period is required for the jawbone to heal and fuse with the implant before it can act as a secure anchor for a dental crown, bridge, or denture. Once the implant is securely in place, an abutment can be connected to the top portion of the dental implant, and a custom restoration can be attached to replace one or more missing teeth. Dental implants are beneficial because they provide a secure and stable base for teeth restorations that feel natural and comfortable in the mouth. They are also helpful for oral health because they replace tooth roots and stimulate the jawbone to prevent bone loss. Dental implants cannot be affected by decay as they cannot get cavities like natural teeth. If cared for properly with regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits, dental implants can last a patient’s lifetime! TYPES OF DENTAL IMPLANTS ENDOSTEAL IMPLANTS An endosteal implant is a type of dental implant that is placed directly into your jawbone. This implant most commonly consists of a titanium screw post-surgically implanted into your jaw after an incision in the gum tissue. A custom abutment and crown are placed over the implant once fully healed, creating a realistic-looking tooth replacement. These are among the most popular dental implants due to their longevity and ability to keep your jaw bone healthy. SUBPERIOSTEAL IMPLANTS Subperiosteal implants are secured on top of the jawbone and underneath the gums, unlike endosteal implants surgically inserted into the jawbone. They are typically placed by an oral surgeon or a periodontist who places the implant and healing abutment into the mouth. Once the gum tissue heals around these pieces, a patient’s restorative dentist will place the artificial tooth or teeth onto the healing abutments. Patients who choose subperiosteal implants must have enough bone tissue to support them.  THE BENEFITS OF DENTAL IMPLANTS Dental implants look and function just like natural teeth, so patients don’t have to worry about their smile being changed. This is especially valuable for patients who already wear dentures so that they can feel confident about their smile and can chew and speak normally. Plus, the implants are durable, so they have a long lifespan and rarely need to be replaced.  Dental implants prevent deterioration of the jawbone and facial muscles that can occur after tooth loss, giving the patient’s jaw the support it needs to stay healthy. This also prevents further tooth loss in the future because the bone that is necessary to support a replacement tooth is preserved. You can experience improved oral health, an enhanced smile appearance, and confidence by choosing dental implants to replace your missing teeth. To learn more about dental implants, contact Todd Curley D.D.S. at Hot Springs Rd, Ste D110, Murrieta 39755, or phone (951) 698-6220.

Bad Habits That Can Damage Our Oral Health

Bad habits can hurt our overall health. They can even affect our oral health. Listed below are some of the bad habits that can damage our oral health. * Nail Biting Nail biting is a common bad habit that sometimes starts in childhood and can continue well into adulthood. The habit can cause damage to the nails themselves and the soft tissue of the fingers. It can also result in tooth damage, such as chips or fractures, if the teeth come into contact with the fingernails while biting down on them. If you bite your nails, try to kick the habit by placing bitter-tasting nail polish on the nails or by wearing gloves when you aren’t feeling the urge to bite your nails. You can also practice relaxation techniques to keep yourself from biting them. * Smoking Smoking is another common habit that can damage your health in many ways, including your oral health. Smoking increases your risk of tooth loss due to gum disease and makes it more difficult to heal after oral surgery. It also affects your body’s ability to fight infections. Smoking is found to be a major risk factor for many oral diseases, including oral cancer, gum disease, periodontitis, tooth loss, and tooth decay. Tobacco use is also linked to a number of health problems, such as heart disease, lung cancer, stroke, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Additionally, tobacco stains the teeth and makes your breath smell bad. It can make you more susceptible to tooth decay and lead to bad breath. People who smoke are also more likely to experience delayed healing after dental treatments and procedures. Studies show that people who smoke are twice as likely to develop cancer of the tongue and throat than people who do not smoke. If you have any questions about quitting smoking or need help, contact us! We’re always happy to help our patients enjoy healthier life. * Brushing Teeth Aggressively Aggressive tooth brushing can lead to enamel loss and receding gums, along with an increased risk of periodontal disease and cavities. When you brush too hard or use the wrong technique, you can damage the soft tissues of your gums and cause them to recede. Plaque buildup and tartar not only allow decay to set in more easily but can also cause discoloration of the teeth. Over time, it can even cause the loosening of your teeth. Experts suggest using a soft-bristled toothbrush and only brushing the teeth along the gum line at a forty-five-degree angle. When applying toothpaste, use a pea-sized amount and gently brush in small circular motions.  * Teeth Grinding Many people aren’t even aware that they grind their teeth! However, it’s a habit that can damage your oral health and create headaches and other unpleasant symptoms. This habit is typically associated with people who are stressed or anxious. If you are clenching your jaw and gritting your teeth together, your mouth is stimulating the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jawbone to the skull. This can lead to TMJ disorder over time. Any kind of tooth-grinding can damage the tooth enamel and even wear the teeth down. Cosmetic procedures like veneers are effective ways to repair the damage and get your smile back into shape. Your dentist can also recommend a nightguard for patients who grind their teeth at night. It will protect the teeth and ease tension in the muscles of the jaw as well. * Using Teeth As Tools Did you know that using your teeth as tools can cause chipping and fractures? If you tend to use your teeth to open packages or bottles, you’re putting yourself at risk for developing tooth damage. The same goes for using your teeth to tear open a bag to eat a snack. Consider finding a different tool to help you with these tasks.  * Not Visiting The Dentist Regularly Many people avoid their dentist because of anxiety or some other reasons. But going to the dentist twice a year for preventive care can help protect your smile from developing cavities or becoming infected. Dentists are able to detect signs of disease in their earliest stages during a simple oral exam and cleaning. If you notice that your teeth are becoming sensitive or your gums are bleeding when you brush and floss, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist right away. By scheduling these preventive appointments, you can prevent the need for more invasive dental treatments. It’s always easier to take care of your dental health when diseases are detected earlier rather than later. Scheduling regular visits to the dentist are important so that any issues with your oral health can be addressed before they cause you discomfort and pain. Wish to learn more oral care habits? Call our dental office and schedule an appointment with us.