A Healthy Mouth is Another Key for Long Life, Part II

Health Tip Week August 23 - 27, 2010

How to maintain a healthy mouth? A healthy mouth is a sign of good health. The first thing a person sees when they approach you is your smile and it should be clean, bright, and protected by healthy gums.

Some examples of an unhealthy mouth:

Halitosis or " Bad breath "

Halitosis is called Oral Malodour, an unpleasant odor carried on the breath. It is usually the result of gum disorder, tooth decay, smoking, indulgence in aromatic foods, or a mild digestive upset.

Known commonly as bad breath, halitosis may also be indictive of lung or sinus infection, uremia, cirrhosis of the liver, or tonsil stones. 

Causes:

• Food odors
• Gum disease
• Tooth decay
• Stomach problems
• Sinus problems

Black, Hairy/Fuzzy Tongue

Black, Hairy/Fuzzy Tongue, is the result when projections on the tongue called papillae grow longer and don't shed like normal. Which makes the tongue look hairy.

Causes:

• Overgrowth of bacteria
• Medications containing bismuth (Pepto-Bismol)
• Oral medications
• Poor oral hygiene
• Breathing through your mouth
• Heavy tobacco use

Symptoms:

• Black/yellow or brown discoloration of the tongue
• Hairy or funny appearance of the tongue
• Altered taste or metallic taste in mouth
• Bad breath (halitosis)
• Gagging sensation

Gingivitis (gum inflammation) is called gum or periodontal disease.

Causes

• Overgrowth of bacteria in the mouth
• Plaque build up
• Untreated causes Periodontist Disease

Periodontists Disease is when the inner layer of the gum and bone is pulled away from the teeth and form pockets. These small spaces between teeth and gums collect debris and can become infected.

What Causes Gum Disease?

• Hormonal changes
• Pregnancy
• Puberty
• Menopause
• Menstruation
• Illnesses
• Cancer
• HIV
• Diabetes
• Medications
• Bad Habits
• Smoking
• Excessive sugar and caffeine intake
• Poor Hygiene Habits
• Not brushing, flossing, or rinsing daily
• Family History of Dental Disease

Symptoms of Gum Disease?

• Bleeding gums
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Receding gums
• Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Changes in appearance of teeth 

How Can Gum Disease Be Prevented?   

• Daily brushing, flossing, and rinsing 
• Tongue cleansing
• Stop smoking
• Stop alcohol and drugs use
• Reduce or omit caffeine and sugary drinks 
• Increase water intake
• Reduce stress
• Maintain a well- balanced diet (fruits, vegetables, and grains)
• Avoid clenching and grinding your teeth
• Regular dental check ups 

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms schedule a dental appointment immediately.  For more information go to http://www.webmd.com/, http://www.medicinenet.com/, http://www.answers.com/

We know this post was long but the seriousness of this topic needed to be presented. Please let us know if the information was helpful.

Live well
Doc V