The Benefits of Using Mouthwash

Do you use mouthwash? 52% of Americans are unaware that mouthwash holds any value in dental or health care. While mouthwash is not a necessary part of oral hygiene, it is highly recommended by dental professionals. Using mouthwash has many benefits; however, a lot of people do not use it or even know what kind to get. Read on to learn more about the benefits of mouthwash and tips for using it.

Using mouthwash has many benefits. First, it decreases cavities. If the mouthwash has fluoride in it, it helps to strengthen the enamel, therefore building up a stronger resistance against cavity-causing plaque. Mouthwash also helps disinfect the mouth, reducing the amount of bacteria that may cause decay. Another benefit to using mouthwash is that it helps prevent gum disease. Antibacterial mouthwash can help eliminate bacteria under or around the gums that may lead to a periodontal infection. Because of this, mouthwash can also help to soothe canker sores inside the mouth, since it kills any bacteria in the area that may be causing irritation. Lastly, many mouthwashes provide a solution to halitosis, leaving you with fresh breath after using.

Though the benefits of using mouthwash outweigh the drawbacks and many of these are case-by-case, they should still be considered before using mouthwash.  Though mouthwash can help reduce canker sore irritation, if the alcohol content is too high, it could potentially have the opposite effect. Another problem with mouthwash is that while it does freshen your breath, it simply acts as a “mask” and only lasts for a short time. If a long-term solution is required, mouthwash would not be the best option.

There is also some controversy over whether or not alcohol-containing mouthwash causes oral cancer. While it has never been proven nor disproven, some mouth rinses containing alcohol have been carefully reviewed by the American Dental Association and given the ADA Seal of Acceptance. If you are going for an alcohol-containing rinse, it is best to look for one with the seal, as it is the safest bet.

There are many types of mouthwash that each serves a different purpose. The one that is best for you is the one that best meets your personal dental needs.

·        Fluoridated: Some mouthwashes contain fluoride. Though we typically do not need this fluoride as we get plenty from our toothpaste and water, it can help as reinforcement for strengthening teeth.

·        Antiseptic: Antiseptic mouthwashes are specially formulated to stop bacterial growth and treat infection in the mouth. If you are especially prone to cavities or gum disease, this type of mouthwash can help prevent that.

·        Cosmetic: The main purpose of cosmetic mouthwash is to disguise bad breath, not to reduce decay. If you’re simply looking for a way to freshen up your breath, cosmetic mouthwash is a good option.

·        Total Care: Total care mouthwashes contain antibacterial ingredients which help to reduce the buildup of plaque and prevent gum disease.

·        Natural: Natural mouthwash is alcohol and fluoride free. Many people find that some natural mouthwash is helpful in soothing pain following a tooth extract.

You can make your own natural mouthwash at home with ingredients you probably already have. Here are some recipes you can use if you want to make your own mouthwash.

·        Basic mouthwash: 1 cup of water + 1 teaspoon baking soda + 3 drops peppermint essential oil

·        Disinfectant mouthwash: 1 cup of water + 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

·        Hydrogen peroxide mouthwash: 1 part hydrogen peroxide + 1 part water

·        Salt water rinse: 1 cup water + 1 teaspoon of salt

Dentists highly recommend using mouthwash because it can help kill bacteria in your mouth that may lead to cavities or gum disease. Mouthwash should never be used as a substitute for brushing or flossing; however, it is a great supplement to these things. If you decide to use mouthwash, you can ask your dentist for a recommendation, she will know which kind is the best for you. If you live in the 5 Towns area, contact us at (800) 223-0801 today to schedule an appointment.

Get The Facts About Your Teeth!

Get the facts on your dental health by checking out these great sites from around the web. Alina Bergan DDS offers both general and cosmetic dentistry options. Visit us on our website or call us at (800) 223-0801 to schedule an appointment at our Cedarhurst office today!

·        Get details about the Zoom! teeth whitening system and how it works on LiveStrong.com.

·        Find an overview of tartar on WebMD.com. You’ll learn how tartar forms and how it can cause dental problems if not properly removed.

·        Your dental health is important for your overall health. Find out how keeping your teeth and gums healthy with regular visits to your dentist can lower your risk of developing dementia in this article.

·        Learn how to make the most of your regular dental checkups on OralB.com.

·        X-rays help your dentist spot any problems during your regular checkups. Learn how often you should receive dental x-rays in this article on Colgate.com.

Common Conditions That Can Affect the Health and Appearance of Your Smile

When your teeth and gums are healthy, chances are your overall health is good, too. However, your oral health may be affected by seemingly unrelated conditions. If you suffer from diabetes, osteoporosis, or acid reflux, you may need to schedule appointments with your family dentist more often than others and take extra precautions to maintain your dental health.

Diabetes
People with diabetes are more likely to develop serious gum disease than those without diabetes. Diabetics have a lower white blood cell count, making them more susceptible to the bacteria that cause gingivitis. If you suffer from diabetes, protect your gums by using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss at least once per day and ask your dentist to recommend an antibacterial mouthwash. In some cases, insurance companies will actually increase the frequency of your cleaning visits benefits if you are a diabetic, because it can be so compromising to your dental health.  Visit your dentist right away if you experience any pain or inflammation.

Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition that causes a loss of density in the bones, including the jawbone. According to the National Institutes of Health, tooth loss affects one third of the 10 million Americans over age 65 who suffer from osteoporosis. If you have osteoporosis, you can help keep your teeth healthy by eating a calcium-rich diet, maintaining your oral hygiene, avoiding tough foods, and visiting your dentist regularly to ensure that your jawbone remains strong.

Acid Reflux
Acid reflux occurs when stomach contents flow back up into the esophagus, causing a painful sensation in the chest and throat called heartburn. The refluxed substance is acidic and can erode tooth enamel, resulting in tooth decay and sensitivity to certain foods and temperatures. If you have acid reflux, your dentist may recommend that you use a softer toothbrush, fluoride treatments, and a mouthguard to protect your teeth while you sleep.

Medications and Chemo Therapy
Certain medications and/or chemo therapy can lead to increased problems in the mouth as well. Dryness or acidity changes in the mouth can be quickly problematic for oral health.

Diet
It’s amazing how eating certain things can ravage your mouth!  Sugared drinks are notorious, but other foods can do surprising damage. For example starchy foods such as pretzels and white bread, can be sticky and cause trouble, too.  If you want to keep your dentist busy, chewy, sticky candy is very bad, in fact, the material we use to assist in removing crowns from the mouth are very much like a sticky candy (without the yummy taste!).

Dr. Alina Bergan DDS, is dedicated to ensuring that your smile stays healthy. Whether you suffer from one of the above conditions or simply need a check-up, you can visit us in Cedarhurst for general, advanced, and cosmetic dentistry care. If you live in the 5 Towns area, contact us at (800) 223-0801 today to schedule an appointment.

What Are Your Non-Surgical Options for Gum Disease Treatment?

Gum disease, also known as periodontitis in its most advanced stages, may be more common than you think. Gum disease not only directly affects your gums, but may also compromise the health of your teeth. When your oral health habits aren’t sufficiently cleaning your teeth, or if you’re genetically predisposed to gum disease, you may notice such symptoms as red or bleeding gums, bad breath, receding gums, loose teeth, and changes in the position of your teeth. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your dentist immediately for information about the following non-surgical treatments:

Professional Dental Cleaning

If you’re suffering from a mild form of gum disease, additional visits to your dentist may be the only treatment you need. At a typical dentist appointment, your dentist uses professional tools to remove harmful tartar and plaque that have accumulated on your teeth. Usually, biannual appointments are enough to keep plaque and tartar from damaging your teeth and gums, but if your dentist discovers symptoms of gum disease, extra cleanings present a great, non-surgical way to rid your mouth of bacteria.

Scaling and Root Planing

If gum disease is more advanced, there are still non-surgical options available. Scaling and root planing are intense, deep-cleaning procedures performed by your dentist to remove tartar and plaque. First, your dentist will administer local anesthetic to ensure your total comfort. Next, plaque and tartar are scraped from above and below the gum line through a process called scaling. Finally, the scaled parts of your teeth are smoothed out in a process called root planing, which allows the gums to safely reattach to your teeth.

If you are concerned about the possibility of gum disease, or if you are interested in learning more about these non-surgical options for gum disease treatment, contact Dr Alina Bergan DDS. We provide family and cosmetic dentistry services for all of your dental needs! Contact us at (800) 223-0801 today!

How to Choose a Dentist

Your teeth are a very important part of your body. Besides the practical function of chewing food, your smile is part of your identity. Of course, you want to carefully choose the person you’re entrusting your teeth with. This video gives helpful suggestions on how to choose your dentist.

Howcast created an informative video including six steps to choosing a dentist. The first steps include a referral from a trusted friend or referencing the American Dental Association. After scheduling a consultation, remember to discuss the cost of treatment. Keep in mind the amount your insurance company will reimburse you for dental care. Other important questions include if the dentist will be on-call for emergencies and if the equipment is sterilized before each use.

Looking for a dentist in the Cedarhurst area? Schedule an appointment with the caring professionals at Dr Alina Bergan DDS. We provide family and cosmetic dentistry services for all of your dental needs! Contact us at (800) 223-0801 today!

Preserve Your Healthy, White Smile

Poor oral and dental health can lead to poor overall health, so look below to find resources on how to improve the look and health of your smile.

·        If your dental hygiene needs improvement, check out this article to learn tips for how to brush your teeth properly.

·        For a closer look at why dental health professionals take dental X-rays, read through this article from WebMD.com.

·        Find out how undergoing routine dental cleanings can dramatically improve your overall health by reading this article provided by HuffingtonPost.com.

·        This article from MayoClinic.com will help you learn about what you can expect during a dental exam.

Visit Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S to receive exceptional and comfortable dental care from highly trained dental professionals. We offer general, preventative, and cosmetic services, so call us at (800) 223-0801 or visit our website to schedule your appointment.

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