gum disease Archives - Dakabin Dental

01/Jul/2023

Smoking is a well-known health hazard with significant consequences for oral health. This article aims to shed light on the impact of smoking on gum health and its role in increasing the risk and severity of gum disease.

We will explore the connection between smoking and gum disease, discuss the associated risks, and provide valuable tips and resources for smoking cessation to support oral health. At Dakabin Dental, we prioritise your overall well-being, including your oral health. If you are a smoker concerned about gum disease, we encourage you to schedule a checkup with our experienced dental team.

The Link Between Smoking and Gum Disease

Smoking is a leading risk factor for the development and progression of gum disease. The harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke compromise the immune system’s ability to fight infections, including those affecting the gums.

This weakened immune response paves the way for bacteria to thrive, leading to inflammation, gum recession, and potential tooth loss. Research has shown that smokers are up to six times more likely to develop gum disease compared to non-smokers.

Effects of Smoking on Gum Health

The impact of smoking on gum health is far-reaching and can manifest in various ways.

Firstly, smoking reduces blood flow to the gums, impairing their ability to heal and recover from infections. This compromised blood flow also affects the delivery of essential nutrients and oxygen to the gum tissues, further exacerbating the damage caused by gum disease.

Additionally, smoking can mask the signs of gum disease, making it harder to detect the early stages and delaying necessary treatment. Smokers may experience persistent bad breath, tooth sensitivity, loose teeth, and increased tooth loss due to the adverse effects of smoking on gum health.

Tips and Resources for Smoking Cessation

Quitting smoking is crucial for improving gum health and preventing further damage. Here are some practical tips and resources to help you on your journey to smoking cessation:

Seek Professional Support:
Consult with your healthcare provider or a smoking cessation specialist who can provide guidance tailored to your specific needs. They can recommend appropriate nicotine replacement therapies, medications, or behavioural therapy programs.
Build a Support Network:
Share your decision to quit smoking with friends, family, and colleagues who can provide encouragement and support. Joining support groups or online communities dedicated to smoking cessation can also be beneficial.
Identify Triggers and Develop Coping Strategies:
Recognise situations or emotions that may trigger the urge to smoke and develop alternative coping mechanisms. Engaging in physical activities, practising relaxation techniques, or distracting yourself with hobbies can help redirect your focus.
Make Lifestyle Changes:
Adopt a healthy lifestyle that promotes overall well-being. Incorporate regular exercise, consume a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and practice good oral hygiene to support your efforts to quit smoking and improve gum health.

The Journey to Better Oral Health

The detrimental effects of smoking on gum health and the increased risk of gum disease cannot be overstated. Quitting smoking is a vital step towards preserving and restoring your oral health.

At Dakabin Dental, our dedicated team is here to support you on your journey to better oral health. Schedule a checkup with our experienced dental professionals today, and let us guide you towards a healthier smile. Take the first step and make the decision that will positively impact your gum health and overall well-being.

Lingaiah Dronavalli

19/Oct/2022

Most of us are taught from a young age that we need to brush our teeth and reduce our sugar intake to avoid cavities and tooth decay. While these are important steps, there is more that can be done to proactively prevent decay. A more holistic approach can greatly improve your chances of stopping decay and preventing more in the future.

Mouth Breathing vs. Nasal Breathing for Decay

Breathing through your mouth dries it out, which makes it harder for your immune system to fight bacteria. Nasal breathing is a good habit to learn. Not only does it moisten the mouth, but it also allows the nose to filter air before it reaches the lungs. This filtered air contains less bacteria, which reduces the amount of harmful bacteria in the mouth.

Eat Whole Foods

Eating whole foods helps your teeth’s natural immune defense system, and this includes eating products with full fat which ensures you are including all the important fat soluble vitamins like A, E & K. Processed foods also tend to be high in sugar and low in nutrients, which can lead to cavities and decay.

Decay

Take Oral Probiotics for Decay

Oral probiotics help to maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the mouth, which can neutralise harmful bacteria. Without oral probiotics, this harmful bacteria can build up and lead to cavities or gum disease.

Include Crunchy Raw Vegetables

Raw vegetables help keep your teeth healthy. They are low in sugars and the crunching action required to eat them help create saliva, which helps protect your teeth from cavities. Without raw vegetables (or any other food that requires crunching), there is less saliva produced, which leaves teeth more vulnerable to decay. The work your mouth and jaw has to do to eat such foods also strengthens it which can help prevent crooked teeth from forming or worsening!

By incorporating these simple steps into your daily routine, you can proactively prevent tooth decay and cavities. So start with quick-win changes & add in others as you are able to. The benefits will be most profound in your children, who can experience the life changing habits compounding over time. But you will also notice an improvement in your own dental health over time!

Our dentists here at Dakabin Dental would be happy to answer questions you may have. Book here at your own convenience or you can contact us today on (07) 3888 7752

Lingaiah Dronavalli

24/Sep/2022

Dental Care is Important During Pregnancy

Half of all pregnant women will experience gingivitis, or gum inflammation during pregnancy. Gingivitis leads to periodontal disease, which is a serious infection of the gums. Pregnant women are also at risk of cavities. Adequate dental care ensures that high risk issues are prevented and treated, giving the pregnant woman and her baby the best chance of positive health outcomes.

Why is Periodontal Disease Concerning?

Pregnant women with periodontal disease are also more likely to experience complications during pregnancy and delivery. It has been linked to preterm birth and low birth weight for the baby. These complications and others can be severe in extreme cases, so act quickly if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy. Time is of the essence during pregnancy. It may seem like you have plenty but it goes quickly!

The Reason Dental Health Can Decline During Pregnancy

There are links to hormonal changes that alter the acidity of the mouth. This causes damage to enamel, gums and increases the risk of decay and cavities. In addition, during pregnancy women are more likely to eat foods high in sugar and at unusual times of the day. Dental care can also be forgotten about since there is so much to do, prepare and think about already in preparation for expanding a family. If severe morning sickness or even hyperemesis gravidarum is experienced, vomiting can be especially damaging to your oral health.

Pregnancy dental care

What Can I do?

Visit the dentist for a check up and clean every single trimester and practice good oral hygiene habits at home. These include brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. Tobacco use, which increases the risk of developing gingivitis or periodontal disease, should also be avoided.

If you are pregnant or planning a baby, book in for your check ups and cleans here. The best outcomes are achieved by planning ahead before anything gets in the way. Prioritise yourself and your baby by taking good care of your teeth and gums.

Most dental work is safe during pregnancy, but the second trimester is the best time to get and procedures done, to ensure your comfort and safety.

Our dentists here at Dakabin Dental would be happy to answer questions you may have regarding oral health before, during or after pregnancy. Contact us today on (07) 3888 7752

Lingaiah Dronavalli

14/Apr/2022

Oral health plays an important role in keeping your smile looking its best. More than that though, healthy gums are key to a healthy mouth, and they play a vital role in your overall well-being.

What are four ways that you can maintain healthy gums:

Keep reading to find out!

We will also explain why oral health is so important and what happens when you don’t take care of your teeth and gums.

Your gums are the foundation for your teeth, so it is important to take care of them. Here are four ways that you can maintain healthy gums:

Brush your teeth twice a day: This is the most important way to maintain healthy gums. Be sure to brush your teeth for two minutes, using circular, gentle motions. Don’t forget to brush your tongue too as bacteria can live here and cause an unhealthy mouth!
Floss daily: Flossing helps remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth and under your gum line, ideally you should be flossing twice a day, but at a minimum once per day.
Eat a healthy diet: A healthy diet is important for your overall health, including your oral health. Be sure to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, and limit sugary snacks and drinks. If you do indulge in these every now and then, make sure you brush your teeth afterwards.
See your dentist regularly: Seeing your dentist every six months (if you have healthy teeth and gums) for a cleaning and check-up is important for maintaining healthy gums. If you struggle with oral health, we recommend seeing the dentist every three to four months. Your dentist can help you with a personalized care plan to get your oral health back on track.

bleeding-gums

Healthy gums provide a foundation for strong teeth, and they help keep your mouth free of bacteria and infection. Additionally, good oral hygiene has been linked with overall good health. For example, research has shown that people with periodontal disease (gum disease) are more likely to suffer from heart disease, stroke, and other chronic conditions.

If you can’t remember the last time you visited the dentist, take advantage of our $99 Check Up and Clean promotion by clicking here