Are you finding it hard to sleep during the night? If yes, then you need to think about your teeth! Tension in the jaw will result in more issues than you might be aware of. For this reason, taking the necessary measures of correcting the tensions will solve health problems you are not aware were linked to the mouth. Lots of benefits come with wearing a mouth guard! When stress is overwhelming you, you will probably grind your teeth when sleeping. These guards will take care of this. However, these advantages provide more than only to prevent teeth grinding.

You can prevent all tooth issues that grinding causes by preventing the grinding of your teeth. So here’s why you need a mouth guard to prevent all these issues. First, we look at the troubling signs.

Signs of teeth clenching and grinding

There are some signs to watch out for if you suspect teeth clenching and grinding during the night:

• Teeth feeling loose
• Chipping teeth
• Tight of sore facial muscles or jaw
• Regular headache every time you wake up

Reasons why you need a mouth guard

1. Preventing headaches

Do you always have headaches every time you wake up? If yes, then you may be clenching the jaw shut and grinding the teeth.

Additionally, teeth clenching and grinding causes toothaches and headaches. A lot of teeth clenching and grinding will cause neck pains, jaw aches, tiredness, and earaches. However, you can prevent these issues by having a customized mouth guard. These dental guards can align the teeth and underbite and overbite to keep away related jaw pain.

2. Minimizing pain and tension to the jaw

Clenching the jaw is another popular thing that most people do while sleeping. TMJ or temporomandibular joint is part of the jaw joint that goes through tension. It is known as TMD or temporomandibular joint dysfunction when it’s aligned in the wrong way.

Wearing a mouth guard will help minimize jaw pain and tension caused by temporomandibular joint dysfunction or TMD. The guard is designed specifically for the teeth. For this reason, it will fit lightly and comfortably into the mouth.

This device will greatly decrease the stress that the jaw muscles and joints go through while sleeping. This allows the jaw to relax.

3. Saving you money

Saving your teeth will ultimately save you money. The damage caused by jaw clenching and teeth grinding is expensive. And this damage will become more expensive over a prolonged period. As the years fly past, the teeth get increasingly severely damaged.

So you should address it before it begins or the first symptoms of jaw clenching and teeth grinding. If you detect it early enough and use a mouth guard, you will ultimately save yourself lots of money.

4. Offers healthy sleep patterns

Jaw clenching and teeth grinding while sleeping are not good habits. And if you are unaware you are making this habit; you are doing it without your knowledge while sleeping.

Since a mouth guard will help alleviate discomfort, it will also help with healthy sleep patterns. You can use your customized mouth guard to perfectly align your jaw into a position that minimizes stress. This causes muscle relaxation, which leads to stress-free sleep.

5. Prevention of damage to the teeth

Because teeth grinding takes place when you’re unaware, the more it occurs, the more you are likely to suffer from enamel loss. Over-sensitivity happens when the enamel wears away. For that reason, your mouth might hardly stand cold or hot food or drinks. Without enamel also protecting the teeth, they will get more prone to decay when it proceeds into the teeth’ hard enamel.

Additionally, teeth grinding will cause damage by wearing out fillings and fracturing a weak tooth. A mouth guard will make sure there’s no contact between your bottom and top teeth while sleeping.

Remember, you will have to make trips back to the dentist because of damage to the fillings. A mouth guard will play an important role while you sleep to protect the teeth from these problems.

6. Helps prevent snoring

Though snoring might be a huge problem for your significant other rather than yourself, it is still essential to deal with the problem. Using a mouth guard is one way to do so.

Jaw clenching will result in breathing issues. Not breathing properly while sleeping will result in snoring. Once this device is in place, it will keep the bottom and top jaws from touching.

Making sure the jaws separate from each other will increase the amount of air that you can breathe while you sleep. For that reason, you’ll be able to breathe well because of the increase in air and snore less.

Hire the best professionals

Most people don’t connect muscle aches with problems linked with TMD. So it is essential that you keep in mind the signs listed above. And consult with a trustworthy dentist about any worries.

And if you think you may be experiencing jaw clenching and teeth grinding, then make sure you contact us today! And solve these bad habits before they can cause grievous damage.

The Marines have delivered over “600 million toys and supported over 270 million children, since 1947”. Golden Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics are proud to support our communities in this annual event. Our Woodbridge office is recognized this year as an official drop off site so please tell your friends & family they are welcome to drop off toys there, as well as at our Burke and Dale City offices. We will combine donations at our other offices with the Woodbridge pick up by the Marines. Drop Off: Now through December 10, 2021.

Join Our Holiday Donation Drive for Toys for Tots

Toys do not need to be wrapped. Please avoid gifts of realistic looking weapons and gifts with food. Toys for Tots provides a donation center for children’s gifts up to 12 years old. Ideal gift ideas for pre-teens are items like sporting equipment/bags/balls; books, backpacks, cosmetics, purses, watch/wallet gift sets, bath gift sets, board games, radio control cars/trucks, hand-held electronics, skateboards/helmets, curling irons, hair straighteners, and hair dryers.

Looking to make a monetary donation? Donate online or make your check or money order payable to:

Marine Toys for Tots Foundation
18251 Quantico Gateway Drive
Triangle, VA  22172

Can’t get into our office to make a donation? Donate a toy online.

Now through December 20, 2021, we are collecting non-perishable dry, boxed, canned, and jarred foods to donate to local food pantries in Woodbridge and Fairfax during the coming holiday season. Please place goods in the boxes provided at each office. We thank you for your support for those in need during the holidays.

When: All through the month of November – December 20, 2021
Where: All Golden Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics offices – Burke, Dale City, Woodbridge Enter your name in our holiday raffle to be drawn on December 20 and win a Wegman’s $25.00 Gift Card.

Woodbridge
3320 Noble Pond Way – Suite 109
Woodbridge, VA 22193

Burke
5200 Lyngate Ct.
Burke, VA 22015

Dale City
14397 Hereford Rd.
Dale City, VA 22193

Contrary to popular belief, flossing is an important oral hygiene practice. Therefore, you should floss frequently. Keep in mind that the mouth is home to thousands of microorganisms. Consequently, brushing your teeth may not be enough. Food particles can accumulate on your teeth, causing the formation of plaque. In turn, plaque leads to dental cavities and caries. Usually, a standard toothbrush cannot reach all the areas of the teeth. Luckily, teeth flossing helps you access all hard-to-reach areas of your teeth. And this keeps your teeth healthy.

Dental plaque

First, let’s look at how plaque can harm your teeth. Over time, plaque builds up on your teeth and causes bad breath or halitosis. Plaque can also cause tooth discoloration. Even worse, plaque can lead to inflammation and irritation on your gums. Plaque produces acid that wears out the enamel with time. As a result, plaque is responsible for causing dental caries, gingivitis, and decay.

When plaque causes gingivitis, it can lead to periodontal issues that damage the bone structure holding the teeth. In turn, this leads to tooth loss. Health experts also report that gum diseases lead to severe health conditions like diabetes and heart attack. It is therefore essential to floss and brush your teeth. In this article, we look at some of the benefits of teeth flossing.

How Often Should You Floss?

Generally, dental experts recommend teeth flossing at least once a day. However, you have to floss using the correct technique. Otherwise, flossing won’t protect you from dental diseases. When flossing your teeth, you have to take your time and focus in between the teeth. Don’t floss in a hurry; otherwise, you might not be able to remove plaque buildup. At the end of the day, ensure you floss thoroughly and slowly. You can always floss after or before brushing your teeth. The order of this does not matter, as long as you floss correctly. Also, you can floss in between the day, especially if you are removing stuck food particles between your teeth.

Getting rid of plaque

One of the main benefits of teeth flossing is that it helps you remove plaque from your teeth. Plaque is often a sticky layer on your teeth and gum line. It may be challenging to see plaque, but you can always remove it by flossing. Plaque primarily results from sugary and starchy foods and attacks the enamel. Hence, this harmful substance exposes you to dental cavities and gum diseases. When you floss your teeth, you remove any stuck food particles in between the teeth. Thus, you reduce the formation of plaque. Flossing also helps you get rid of plaque from your teeth.

Reduces the risk of cavities

Teeth flossing teeth reduces the risk of dental cavities. This is because flossing helps you get rid of all food buildup in between your teeth. Hence it keeps your teeth clean at all times. As a result, you are unlikely to get a dental cavity. Dental experts recommend teeth flossing for best results. Remember, cavities can lead to dental decay and tooth loss.

It helps prevent gum disease

Another benefit of teeth flossing is that it protects you from gum diseases. Gum diseases are common when plaque builds up between the teeth and the gum line. Gingivitis is positively related to a wide range of severe oral infections like periodontitis. Periodontal problems weaken the bone supporting your teeth. If left untreated, it affects your overall health. Flossing your teeth at least once a day can keep your gums healthy.

Reduces bad breath

Did you know that flossing can help you prevent bad breath? Bad breath is common when plaque builds up on the teeth. Food particles that stay for a long time in between your teeth often start to decay. And this makes your mouth smell bad. Teeth flossing prevents the accumulation of food particles in your teeth. Thus, it prevents you from experiencing bad breath.

It prevents you from cardiovascular complications

A good number of health experts report that dental problems are connected to heart conditions. For example, serious gum diseases are linked to heart attacks. Based on previous studies, individuals who practised good oral hygiene suffered less from cardiovascular diseases. Flossing your teeth protects you from gum and teeth diseases.

Affordable teeth cleaning technique

Unlike professional teeth cleaning procedures, flossing is an inexpensive method of cleaning your teeth. Floss goes for as little as $10. The price varies depending on the floss you purchase. Moreover, you don’t have to buy any additional cleaning products to accompany floss. Not to mention, floss is quite simple to use.

Conclusion

Ultimately, it would be best if you flossed your teeth at least once a day. Nevertheless, ensure you floss properly. Teeth flossing protects you from dental and gum diseases. In turn, it improves your overall health.

Based on previous statistics, nearly half of the population in the United States suffers from dental issues. Therefore, more individuals are now seeking a full mouth restoration to restore their smiles. If you are planning to undergo a full mouth restoration, it is essential to consult your dentist first. A dental expert will guide you through the entire process. Also, they will prescribe the correct dental treatment for you. Typically, this procedure improves your oral health and self-confidence.

The meaning of a full mouth restoration

There is no specific definition of a full mouth restoration. Generally, there are many procedures involved when conducting a full-mouth reconstruction; it all depends on your needs. Some of these procedures include:

• Periodontal therapy
• Teeth Whitening
• Veneers
• Crowns or Bridges
• Dental Implants
• Neuromuscular dentistry

As mentioned above, there are many dental procedures involved in this procedure. The one prescribed by your dentist depends on the dental issues you are facing.

When should you consider a full mouth restoration?

Not all dental patients need this procedure. For instance, if you only need a tooth filling, a full mouth reconstruction is undoubtedly unnecessary. However, if you have a wide range of dental issues, consider this procedure. Consult a dental professional to identify whether you need this procedure at the end of the day.

The benefits of a full mouth restoration

Below are some of the reasons why you should consider a full mouth restoration.

Boost oral health:

The main benefit of this procedure is improvement in oral health. A full mouth reconstruction helps in fixing almost all dental issues. When you improve your oral health, you improve your overall health as well. Also, this process protects you from dental decay and cavities.

Improved dental structure:

Typically, a full mouth restoration helps in aligning your teeth. Also, some procedures conducted during this process strengthen your bone structure. You are less likely to experience orthodontic issues if you undergo a mouth reconstruction.

Better Overall Health:

Occasionally, oral health is connected to your overall health. Generally, better oral health means better overall health. Therefore, this procedure will keep your overall health in good condition.

Aesthetics:

Dental issues can alter the structure of your face. Also, having many dental issues makes you look older than you are. Your teeth and lips won’t look healthy. And this tampers with your smile. Undergoing a full mouth restoration helps you fix all the problems in your teeth using cosmetic dentistry. There is a broad spectrum of cosmetic dental devices that can restore your smile.

How It Works

Upon your first consultation, your dentist will pay attention to your requirements. From there, they will examine your teeth and gums. After evaluation, most dentists will refer you to a specialist. Note that you may require to book more than one appointment for an examination. Your dentist is the best person to confirm whether you need this procedure done.

Teeth:

The condition of your teeth will determine whether you need a full mouth restoration. Some of the things your dentist will look at are decays, cracks, cavities, and crooked teeth, misaligned and uneven teeth. If you have the above conditions, your dentist may recommend a full mouth reconstruction. At times, you may experience only one dental problem. In such instances, you won’t need a full reconstruction.

Gum Tissue:

Dentists always examine the condition of the gums to identify whether their patients need a mouth reconstruction. Serious gum diseases like gum recession indicate a need for mouth restoration. However, if you are experiencing usual gum issues, the dentist will use scaling to fix the issue. Scaling focuses on getting rid of plaque below the gum line.

Conclusion:

Before treating occlusions with a full mouth restoration, consult an orthodontic expert. They will determine whether the reconstruction process is necessary. If they can fix the occlusion using a milder treatment option, there would be no need for this procedure. Braces, Invisalign, among other devices, work best in treating occlusions.

A dental bridge is often used to replace a missing tooth. These are false teeth that close gaps in between your teeth. There are many materials used to make bridges. But the most common one is porcelain. Porcelain matches your teeth; hence they are good for aesthetics. Currently, there is a wide range of dental bridges you can use.

Four main types of dental bridges

Maryland dental bridge

This works like a traditional type because it needs two natural teeth beside the gap to stay in place. Crown gets cemented on two natural abutment teeth surrounding the gap. This procedure incorporates a porcelain or metal framework.

Traditional dental bridge

The is the most popular type of bridge. It is a false tooth secured by crowns placed on the abutment teeth. They are ideal for patients who have one missing tooth in between other teeth.

Cantilever dental bridge

Unlike the traditional type, the cantilever is firmly secured in the gap by a crown placed on only one tooth beside it. You only need one natural tooth to secure this method.

Implant-supported dental bridge

This does not use crowns or metal frameworks for support. As the name suggests, the bridge gets implanted on the missing teeth. The implant holds the bridge permanently on the gap. Dental experts report that this is the most robust and effective method. However, you will need to undergo two surgeries to install it. One surgery is meant to install the implants on the jawbone. In the second surgery, your dentist will install the bridge on the gap. Note that it can take a couple of months to put in place an implant-supported dental bridge.

How much does a dental bridge cost?

Typically, the cost of this procedure depends on a wide range of factors. Some of them include the type of bridges and the number of bridges. But generally, traditional types cost $2,000 to $5,000 per unit. Cantilever bridges cost $2,000 to $5,000 per unit. Maryland types are slightly inexpensive since they go for approximately $1,500 to $2,500 for one unit. Lastly, implant-supported types are the most expensive option; they cost about $5,000 to $1,500 for one bridge.

The material of the bridge also affects the pricing. However, it is always advisable to choose porcelain, even though it might be more expensive than other options. Also, note that dentists charge more if they find it difficult to place the dental bridge. So, before you undergo this procedure, talk to your dentist. Let them explain all the costs involved in the procedure. Fortunately, some insurance plans cater to dental bridge placement. Always check with your insurance policy to see what’s included in your dental insurance plan. You can also obtain a financing option to cater to the costs involved.

Dental bridge vs. dental implant

The main difference between a dental bridge and a dental implant is its durability. Generally, you need to replace a bridge after every five to fifteen years. The longevity varies depending on how you take care of your bridge. Although expensive, dental implants are permanent solutions. You don’t need to replace them at any given time. Keep in mind that you have to observe all oral hygiene practices to prolong the lifespan of your bridge.

Benefits of having a dental bridge

As mentioned earlier, a dental bridge replaces missing teeth. Therefore, it offers the following benefits.

Restoring your smile and self-confidence:

Having missing teeth can unquestionably interfere with your self-confidence. A bridge, therefore, restores your smile and makes you look more beautiful.

Enables you to chew properly:

Chewing with missing teeth can be difficult, especially when eating hard foods. When a dental bridge replaces the missing teeth, you can chew properly.

Improves speech:

Did you know that missing teeth can interfere with the quality of your speech? Replacing the missing teeth with a dental bridge, therefore, restores your speech and pronunciation.

Aesthetics:

A missing tooth can tamper with the aesthetics of your face. A dental bridge helps you maintain your facial appearance.

Keeps your teeth aligned:

Another advantage of this procedure is that it helps in keeping all surrounding teeth in their rightful position.

Conclusion

A dental bridge is an ideal oral device for replacing missing teeth. So, if you are missing a tooth or two, consider using this treatment option. However, before you settle for this method as a solution, consult a dental expert. More often than not, your dentist will advise you on the best type that suits your requirements. Also, they will show you all the costs involved in the procedure. Your requirements will determine whether you need one for your missing tooth at the end of the day.

Dental problems are increasingly becoming popular among a majority of individuals in the United States. In fact, recent statistics show that dental decay is the second most common disease after the cold. Nearly 50% of the population in America experience dental troubles. Fortunately, there are many techniques you can use to prevent dental troubles.

Typically, flossing and brushing your teeth are the most common dental hygiene practices. Even so, there are other oral practices that can boost your dental health. In this article, we look at how to jump ahead of dental troubles.

Identify your cavity risk level

It is important to identify your cavity risk level. This way, you’ll be able to take control of your health. Identifying your cavity risk level requires you to undergo a dental examination. During a professional dental examination, your dentist identifies all underlying dental problems. This way, they can fix the problems as early as possible. Also, your dentist will give you the best teeth maintenance tips to boost your oral health. When you identify you have a higher cavity risk level, you’ll have to visit your dentist more frequently. On the other hand, you won’t need many dental visits if you have a low cavity risk level. Ultimately knowing your cavity risk level helps you jump ahead of dental troubles.

Clean your teeth regularly using the right toothbrush and toothpaste

Another way to jump ahead of dental troubles is to clean your teeth often. Use the right toothbrush and toothpaste to clean your teeth. Your mouth serves as a habitat for thousands of microorganisms. Therefore, you have to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Otherwise, food particles can accumulate on your teeth and form plaque. Plaque, in turn, leads to tartar which causes dental caries and decay. Plaque also produces acid, which can wear out the enamel hence leading to tooth sensitivity. Also, when brushing your teeth, ensure you use the right technique. Moreover, consider using an antimicrobial mouthwash at least twice a day to obtain fresh breath.

Consume a healthy diet and drink lots of water

One of the most common ways to jump ahead of dental troubles is to consume a healthy diet. Sugary foods lead to the formation of plaque which in turn leads to dental decay. On the flip side, acidic foods can lead to the wearing out of the enamel. So, always rinse your mouth with clean water after drinking coffee or tea. Do the same when you consume sugary foods to prevent harmful sugars stay in your saliva. When you are trying to improve your oral health, it would be best to consume fruits, vegetables, among other healthy foodstuffs. Not only are these foods good for your dental health but also your overall health.

Does drinking water protect you from cavities?

Water is important for your body. Health experts advise staying hydrated at all times. Drinking water that contains fluoride can help in strengthening your teeth, hence protecting you from cavities. Also, drinking water rinses your mouth after eating sugary or acidic foods. Thus, drink water frequently throughout the day.

Floss your teeth

At times, a normal toothbrush is not enough to get rid of all dirt particles in between your teeth. Fortunately, flossing your teeth helps you remove all food particles and plaque stuck between your teeth and gumline. It is therefore important to floss your teeth at least once a day. When flossing, take your time and be thorough. You can floss before or after cleaning your teeth; it all depends on what you want.

Stop smoking

Smoking harms not only your respiratory health but also your dental health. Tobacco consumption poses a great danger to the teeth and gums. More often than not, individuals think that smoking only causes teeth discoloration. But the harm goes further than that. Smoking leads to tooth loss, gum diseases, and oral cancer. If you are a smoking addict, consider getting help from a professional. They will advise you best on how to quit smoking.

Regular dental examinations / checkups

It would be best if you went for dental checkups at least twice a year. Dental checkups enable you to identify and treat dental problems early enough before they escalate. During a dental checkup, your dentist performs a thorough examination of your teeth. Here, they will identify signs of decay or caries. Then, they will advise you on the best way forward. Moreover, consider undergoing a professional tooth cleaning procedure at least once a year. Professional teeth cleaning removes plaque from all the hard-to-reach areas and makes your teeth appear whiter.

Conclusion

Dental troubles are increasingly becoming popular among a majority of homeowners. Luckily, you can jump ahead of dental troubles by observing certain oral practices. Some of them include brushing your teeth, undergoing dental examinations, flossing, and eating a healthy diet. At the end of the day, you have to take responsibility for your oral health.

The majority of children fear going to the dentist. In fact, most children are likely to throw tantrums when going to the dentist. Children often perceive dental visits as uncomfortable and painful experiences. There are so many reasons why children avoid the pediatric dentist. Some of them include:

Dental staff

Typically, dental staff should be friendly yet professional. Your pediatric dentist should have staff that makes your child feel comfortable. If the dental staff are too serious, your child can freak out. Good dental staff will try distracting your child’s mind and prepare them beforehand for any orthodontic procedure. This way, your child will be able to relax and throw fewer tantrums.

Dental equipment

Your pediatric dentist should have child-friendly dental equipment. If your child sees large dental equipment, they might start crying. Also, dentists who use adult dental equipment to fix your child’s teeth make the process more painful and unbearable. Remember, children have smaller teeth and mouths. Thus, your pediatric dentist should use smaller dental equipment on them.

Dental setting and environment

Indisputably, the dental setting and environment should be child-friendly. Most pediatric dentists choose to create a playroom at the reception. Doing this keeps your child at ease and enables them to play with other kids. In addition, a child-friendly environment will reduce your child’s anxiety and fear of the dentist.

Bad dental experiences

If your child has ever had a bad dental experience, it is more likely that they will fear the next one. A bad dental experience instills fear in the child. Therefore, as a parent, you have to look for a better pediatric dentist. Also, assure your child that the experience won’t be as bad as the last one.

Parent’s dental anxiety

Children can read their parent’s behavior. Therefore, if you have dental anxiety, you are likely to pass it on to your child. It is essential to stay strong for your child. Pretend that everything is okay and keep affirming your child that they can handle the procedure. If you have extreme dental fear, you would instead let the other parent take the child to the dentist. Alternatively, consider not accompanying your child to the dentist’s room if they are comfortable with it. Generally, some children will act better when their parents are not around. Ultimately, avoid passing any dental fears and anxiety to your children.

How do you prepare your child for a dental experience?

First, it is essential to prepare your child for a dental experience beforehand. Doing this often involves giving your child a summary of what is likely to occur at the dentist’s office. As you do this, avoid giving false information. Otherwise, you might create false ideas in your child’s mind. And this serves as a recipe for disappointment.

Portray the pediatric dentist as a good person

You have to affirm to your child that the pediatric dentist is kind and loving. This is the only way your child will be comfortable around the dentist. Never talk badly about the dentist when your child is listening. Your child might not be able to trust them. Assure your child that they are in safe hands with the dentist.

Nonetheless, you have to ensure that your pediatric dentist creates a child-friendly environment. Also, they have to be friendly and experienced in dealing with children. This is the only way the dental procedure will be successful.

Taking your child to the dentist from an early age

It is essential to start introducing your child to a pediatric dentist from their early years. Dental professionals often advise taking your child for dental examinations from age 5 to 7. Doing this will make the child more familiar with dental visits. Subsequently, they won’t experience dental fear and anxiety as much. However, you have to ensure that your child has a positive experience on their first dental visit. Otherwise, they might end up hating dental checkups for the rest of their lives. Taking your child to a pediatric dentist while still young also helps you identify all dental issues early enough. Remember, the earlier you identify dental problems, the better.

Giving simple explanation

Take time to answer all your child’s questions. However, you have to be wise while doing this. Be careful not to give any false information or discourage your child. Also, try your best to answer the child’s questions in the simplest way possible. Think of drawing models and pictures to give appropriate answers to your children. Failure to answer your child’s questions might make them more fearful of the dental visit. If you have no answer to a particular question, you can consult your pediatric dentist about it. Most of them are always willing to address all your fears, queries, and doubts.

Hire the right pediatric dentist

There are so many reasons why children avoid the dentist. Therefore, finding a pediatric dentist who will make your child feel at ease during all dental visits is essential.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought about so many changes in the economy. Health experts report that this deadly virus is related to a wide range of health complications. Surprisingly, health professionals saw an increase in teen dental problems since the start of the global pandemic. It is shocking how the number of people infected with dental decay and gum diseases is still rising, especially in teenagers. So, how does COVID-19 damage your teeth?

The relationship between COVID-19 and dental diseases

As mentioned earlier, the COVID-19 virus brought about more cases of dental illnesses. More patients are now reporting cases of gum diseases, among other dental infections. These teen dental problems continue to affect them even after they heal from the COVID-19 virus. Does this mean that dental damage could be a possible COVID-19 symptom?

Some health experts report that the COVID-19 virus, SARS-COV-2’s, can adversely affect oral health. However, it can be hard to notice these dental symptoms, especially when you are busy trying to heal from COVID. It is more likely that you will notice these symptoms way after you overcome the virus. So, it is essential to keep monitoring your dental health amid this global pandemic. Doing this helps you identify and treat all dental issues early enough. As a result, you will maintain good oral health.

Medical experts are still trying to find out how the COVID-19 virus causes teen dental problems. But the most common reason may be improper blood flow. Remember, blood needs to be circulated adequately to all areas for your whole body to function well. The COVID-19 virus inhibits proper blood flow throughout the whole body. Subsequently, blood does not reach all parts of the body. Thus, blood clots patchy blood flow is likely to form. This prevents some parts of the body from receiving adequate nutrients.

The mouth contains a wide range of blood vessels that get affected when there is improper blood flow in the body. At times, blood may not be able to flow to the jaws. So, when blood does not flow to the jaw, the oral cavity gets weakened. And this makes your mouth more vulnerable to tooth decay, among other dental illnesses. Therefore, blood flow to the oral cavity should not be compromised at any given moment.

Is the virus responsible for causing oral health problems?

Another reason why COVID-19 can cause oral problems is due to the presence of cytokine storms. When you get the COVID-19 virus, the viral load in your body goes up. As a result, the percentage of viruses in your mouth will ultimately go up. In turn, this leads to various oral health problems. Even after you heal from the COVID-19, the viral load in your mouth is likely to remain higher. The reason for this is still unknown by dental professionals.

Dental damage from the COVID-19 virus affects children and teenagers

Teenagers are also experiencing a wide range of teen dental problems from this global pandemic. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that your children stay safe and observe all COVID -19 safety measures. Doing this will keep them safe from a wide range of dental and respiratory illnesses. In addition, ensure they observe social distancing and wash their hands from time to time.

Poor attention for dental health

Nowadays, most medical professionals tend to focus on treating and preventing the COVID-19 virus. As a result, they forget to deal with other serious health complications. Undoubtedly, most nations have given the COVID-19 virus the priority. Less attention is therefore given to other health problems related to dental health. Subsequently, more teenagers continue to suffer from teen dental problems.

Moreover, patients are ignoring dental illness symptoms as they look out for COVID-19 symptoms. Therefore, everyone must keep monitoring their overall health. Keep in mind that there are so many diseases that could lead to fatalities other than COVID.

What steps can teens take for better dental care?

Fortunately, there is a wide range of techniques teens can incorporate to improve their dental health. Some include:

Practicing oral hygiene

Teens need to make sure your teeth stay clean at all times. Dental experts advise brushing your teeth at least twice a day. As you do this, use the correct brushing technique and toothpaste products. More often than not, fluoride toothpaste helps in strengthening your teeth. Also, ensure you floss your teeth after meals. Dental professionals also advise changing your toothbrush after every three months.

Consume a healthy diet

If you want to keep your teeth healthy, it is essential to eat a healthy diet. Avoid consuming sugary and spicy foods since they are the number one cause of dental decay. Additionally, avoid crunchy foods that entertain plaque build-up on the teeth.

In summary

Ultimately, protecting teenagers from the COVID-19 virus will help you avoid teen dental problems. So, always make sure you observe all COVID-19 safety measures as outlined by the World Health Organization. Doing this will keep teenagers safe from a broad spectrum of health complications.

Visit our offices:

• Burke Pediatric Dentist
• Woodbridge Pediatric Dentist