The Link Between Poor Oral Hygiene and Heart Disease

Poor oral hygiene and heart health

When it comes to maintaining good health, many of us focus on exercise and a healthy diet. However, there’s one crucial aspect that’s often overlooked: oral hygiene. Recent studies have revealed a stark connection between poor oral hygiene and heart health. Understanding this link can be pivotal for not only a brighter smile but also a healthier heart.

The Connection Between Oral Health and Cardiovascular Disease

Your mouth is a gateway to the rest of your body. Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to severe consequences not just for your teeth and gums, but for your cardiovascular system too. Gum infections, which are common consequences of poor oral hygiene, have been linked to heart disease and other serious issues.

Systemic Effects of Oral Health

The bacteria from gum infections can enter the bloodstream. Once inside, they can potentially form clots in the arteries or cause inflammation, both of which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease. The systemic effects of oral health have the potential to impact various organs and systems, making regular dental care essential.

Understanding Gum Disease Heart Risk

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, involves the infection of the supporting structures of the teeth. If left untreated, it can increase the risk of heart disease. Here’s how:

  • Inflammation: Chronic inflammation from gum disease can lead to inflammation in the heart and blood vessels.
  • Bloodstream Bacteria: Pathogenic bacteria from infected gums can travel into the bloodstream, posing a threat to cardiovascular health.
  • Poor Immune Response: The body’s continuous immune response to oral bacteria may weaken the immune system over time, compromising heart health.

At Bespoke Dental, we emphasize the importance of regular dental check-ups not only for your oral health but as a preventive measure for potential heart problems.

Take Charge of Your Oral Health for Better Cardiovascular Health

Prevention starts at home with proper oral hygiene practices. Brushing twice a day, flossing regularly, and professional cleanings can mitigate the risk of both oral and heart diseases. Take proactive steps today for a healthier tomorrow.

Contact Bespoke Dental

Our dedicated team at Bespoke Dental is here to assist you in maintaining your oral and overall health. Schedule a consultation today to start your journey towards comprehensive wellness.

FAQ

How does oral hygiene impact heart health?

Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, which has been linked to heart disease through inflammation and bacteria in the bloodstream.

Can improving my oral health reduce heart disease risk?

Yes, maintaining good oral hygiene can lower the risk of infections and inflammation that potentially increase heart disease risk.

What symptoms indicate gum disease?

Common symptoms include swollen or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, and loose teeth. It’s crucial to consult with a dentist if you notice these signs.

Can regular dental visits improve heart health?

Yes, regular dental check-ups can help detect and treat oral infections early, potentially reducing heart disease risk.

How Much Should You Be Spending on Mouth Guards?

mouth guards at Bespoke Dental

Why Mouth Guards are Important

Mouth guards play a crucial role in protecting your teeth during physical activities and sleep. Whether you need a mouth guard for kids involved in sports or an adult guard for nighttime teeth grinding, it’s essential to choose the right one. But how much should you be spending on them? Let’s dive into the factors that influence the mouth guard cost.

Factors Affecting Mouth Guard Costs

The cost of mouth guards can vary greatly based on several factors. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Type: Over-the-counter vs. custom-made
  • Material: Quality of materials used
  • Purpose: Sports, nighttime grinding, or orthodontic
  • Brand: Reputable brands can cost more

Over-the-Counter Mouth Guards

Over-the-counter (OTC) mouth guards are readily available at drugstores. These are usually the most affordable option but may not provide the best fit or level of protection. You can generally find these ranging from $10 to $50.

Custom-Made Mouth Guards

Custom-made mouth guards, on the other hand, are designed specifically for your mouth by a dental professional. While these are more expensive, costing anywhere from $100 to $500, they offer a superior fit and better protection. They are ideal for people with specific dental needs or those involved in high-impact sports.

Mouth Guards for Kids: What You Need to Know

If you are looking for a mouth guard for kids, you might be wondering how much you should spend. Children who are active in sports often need mouth guards to protect their developing teeth. OTC options can be a quick and budget-friendly solution, but for optimal safety, consider investing in a custom-made guard, especially if they participate in contact sports.

Are Expensive Mouth Guards Worth It?

So, should you invest in a high-cost mouth guard? Here are some factors to consider:

  • Durability: Higher-cost guards generally last longer.
  • Fit: Custom-made guards are more comfortable and effective.
  • Safety: Better materials and design offer improved protection.

Conclusion: Finding the Right Balance

The decision on how much to spend on a mouth guard depends on your specific needs. Basic OTC mouth guards can suffice for casual activities, but custom-made options offer better fit and protection, especially for active kids or adults with specific dental concerns.

If you’re still unsure, we recommend scheduling a consultation with a dental professional. Our team at Bespoke Dental can help you determine the best type of mouth guard for your needs and budget.

FAQs

What is the average cost of a mouth guard for kids?

The cost can range from $10 for OTC options to $200 for custom-made guards.

How long do custom-made mouth guards last?

With proper care, a custom-made mouth guard can last several years.

Can I use a sports mouth guard for sleep?

Sports mouth guards and night guards serve different purposes. Consult your dentist for the best recommendation.

Is a custom mouth guard covered by insurance?

Many dental insurance plans cover custom mouth guards, especially if they are medically necessary.

Ready to protect your smile? Contact Bespoke Dental for a consultation today!

How to Keep Your Dentures Clean and Comfortable: Maintenance Tips

female dentist holding set of dentures

Embarking on the journey of wearing dentures can be transformative, restoring confidence and functionality to one’s smile. However, to make the most out of this experience, proper care and maintenance are key. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the essential steps on how to clean dentures effectively and keep them comfortable. Let’s dive in!

1. Understanding the Basics of Denture Care

Overview:

Dentures, whether full or partial, require regular cleaning to prevent plaque buildup, staining, and bad breath. Proper denture care ensures their longevity and your oral hygiene.

Practical Tips and Recommendations:

  1. Brush your dentures daily: Use a soft-bristled brush and mild denture cleaner or mild soap to clean all surfaces thoroughly. Avoid using regular toothpaste as it can be abrasive.
  2. Handle with care: Always hold your dentures over a soft surface or a folded towel to prevent damage if dropped accidentally.
  3. Soak dentures overnight: Place your dentures in a denture-cleaning solution or plain water overnight to keep them moist and maintain their shape.

2. Cleaning Your Mouth and Gums

Overview:

Maintaining good oral hygiene for your remaining natural teeth, gums, and tongue is crucial, even if you have full dentures.

Practical Tips and Recommendations:

  1. Clean your mouth: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or gauze to clean your tongue, gums, and the roof of your mouth every morning before inserting your dentures.
  2. Rinse after meals: After eating, remove and rinse your dentures to remove food particles. Clean your dentures before putting them back in your mouth.

3. Regular Dental Check-ups

Overview:

Regular dental check-ups are essential, even if you wear dentures, to ensure your oral health and the proper fit of your dentures.

Practical Tips and Recommendations:

  1. Schedule regular appointments: Visit your dentist at least once a year for a dental check-up. They can assess the condition of your dentures and make necessary adjustments.
  2. Discuss concerns: If you experience discomfort, sore spots, or changes in your bite, consult your dentist promptly. Ill-fitting dentures can cause oral health issues if not addressed.

4. Handling Denture Problems

Overview:

Knowing how to handle common denture problems can prevent unnecessary stress and potential damage.

Practical Tips and Recommendations:

  1. Avoid DIY repairs: Do not attempt to repair your dentures at home. DIY fixes can lead to further damage. Instead, consult your dentist for professional repairs.
  2. Address discomfort: If your dentures cause discomfort or sore spots, do not ignore the issue. Promptly consult your dentist to adjust the fit for better comfort.

5. Embracing Proper Storage Habits

Overview:

Proper denture storage ensures they remain in good condition when not in use.

Practical Tips and Recommendations:

  1. Store dentures properly: When not wearing your dentures, keep them in a denture-cleaning solution or plain water to prevent them from drying out and losing their shape.
  2. Handle with care: Always handle your dentures gently to avoid bending or damaging the clasps.

Conclusion

Taking care of your dentures is not just about maintaining their appearance but also ensuring your overall oral health and comfort. By following these steps on how to clean dentures and embracing good denture care habits, you can enjoy a confident smile and a comfortable fit.

Ready to give your dentures the care they deserve? Contact Bespoke Dental for more expert denture care guidance and services. Let us help you achieve a confident smile and comfortable fit. Reach out today!

Begin To Brush Your Kid’s Teeth This Early!

A kid brushing her teeth

As a parent, you want your child to grow healthy and strong. But did you know that taking care of your kid’s teeth is just as important as eating right and staying active? In fact, brushing their teeth should be part of their daily routine! So when exactly should you start brushing your child’s teeth?

Discover why dental hygiene is essential for kids and what toothbrushing strategies work best to keep those pearly whites sparkling.

kid's teeth

How Early Should You Begin To Brush Your Kid’s Teeth?

The American Dental Association recommends brushing a kid’s teeth twice a day from the time their first tooth comes in. As soon as teeth start to erupt, around age 6 months, parents should begin brushing them with water and a soft-bristle toothbrush. 

An important next step is to schedule a dental checkup at age 1, or within six months after their first tooth emerges. During this initial visit, the dentist can educate parents on brushing techniques and oral hygiene care activities appropriate for their age. 

By providing proper oral health care and taking your children to regular preventive visits with their dentist, you are building a foundation of healthy habits they can carry into adulthood.

How Many Times A Day Should You Brush Your Kid’s Teeth?

Teaching children proper dental hygiene is essential to ensure that they are developing strong, healthy teeth.

Brushing your kid’s teeth twice a day, once in the morning and once at night, and flossing at least once per day, is essential for keeping their teeth sparkling clean. It’s also important to create a regular routine when it comes to brushing their teeth as it helps promote consistency. 

Additionally, children should brush their teeth under supervision until they are seven or eight years old to ensure that they brush effectively by using the correct technique. Providing an enjoyable experience with no distractions can also help keep them engaged during the process. 

Following these guidelines can help ensure that your child develops good oral hygiene habits from an early age.

How To Motivate A Kid To Brush Their Teeth?

Brushing a kid’s teeth can be an important yet daunting task, but there are ways to make it fun and motivating. Praise your child each time they brush their teeth thoroughly and use positive reinforcement as an incentive. 

You could even ask them to smile wide so you can easily spot which spots they missed brushing. Alternatively, you could reward brushing with a special sticker or small toy every week; this is especially effective for younger children who may respond more to the prospect of short-term rewards than long-term oral hygiene benefits.

Whichever approach you take, it’s important that brushing their teeth becomes part of the daily routine in order for your kid to develop good brushing habits for life.

Should You Use Fluoride Toothpaste For Your Kid’s Teeth?

When it comes to fluoride toothpaste, parents of young children are often left with a lot of questions. Is fluoride toothpaste safe for my baby? At what age should I start using a fluoride toothpaste for my kid’s teeth? 

The answer can be complicated, but the American Dental Association does have some guidelines. Generally speaking, babies from 0–2 years old should not use fluoride toothpaste because their bodies are still developing and fluoride can be toxic if swallowed in high doses. 

Instead, parents should just use water to clean their baby’s teeth until they reach the age of two. Then they can start using an amount of fluoride toothpaste no bigger than a grain of rice until your child is three, and then increase the amount when they are able to spit properly.

Visit Bespoke Dental Now!

You can start brushing your child’s teeth as soon as they have their first tooth. You can do this at least twice a day for two minutes each time. In terms of ways to motivate a kid to brush their teeth, bribing your child with candy or toys may work in the short run, but it’s not sustainable in the long term. Try making brushing fun by singing songs or playing games while you do it together. 

You can also lead by example and make sure that your own oral hygiene habits are strong. Finally, remember to praise your child when they do brush their teeth regularly. If you have any additional questions about your child’s dental health, please don’t hesitate to visit our dental clinic.

Why Visiting A Dentist Regulary Is Important?

visiting a dentist
visiting a dentist

It may come as a surprise to many of you, but A Visit To The Dentist isn’t just about getting your teeth cleaned. Regular visits to the dentist go beyond just making sure your smile looks great – they can help keep you healthy too! As if we need yet another reminder that our health and well-being are connected, visiting the dentist regularly has numerous benefits for both your mouth and overall health. Read on to find out more about why dentists recommend regular checkups.

What is the importance of visiting a dentist regularly?

Visiting a dentist regularly is incredibly important for maintaining good oral health. First and foremost, a dental care professional can clean your teeth and teach you how to properly care for your teeth on a daily basis. Additionally, visiting a dentist regularly allows them to inspect your mouth for any problems that may have gone unnoticed. Early detection of any cavities or gum disease can help prevent further damage and make the necessary treatment options much less costly than if the problem had progressed unchecked. On top of prevention and treatment, visiting a dentist regularly helps promote healthy habits that will stay with you throughout your entire life, making it easier to maintain good oral health well into the future.

How often should you visit your dentist?

Visiting a dentist twice a year is the recommended frequency for most adults. This allows for early detection of any potential issues and helps keep your teeth and gums in optimum health. For those with certain pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or gum disease, visiting the dentist more often may be necessary to prevent further damage or the development of other dental problems. Staying ahead of potential dental issues is key to maintaining optimal oral hygiene and preventing future dental health challenges.

What happens in a dentist visit?

Visiting a dentist can be a nerve-wracking experience, but it’s important for maintaining good oral hygiene. During your visit, the dentist will likely start off with a brief examination of your mouth and teeth to assess the overall health of your mouth. Your teeth will then be thoroughly cleaned using special tools such as an ultrasonic scaler and polishing instruments. X-rays may also be taken in order to look for cavities or signs of gum disease that cannot be seen otherwise. The dentist may also diagnose any existing dental issues and discuss treatments available if needed. 

Afterward, you might receive advice from the dentist on how to maintain good oral health moving forward, offering tips on proper brushing and flossing techniques as well as dietary choices for strong teeth.

What should you practice between each regular dental visit?

Visiting your dentist regularly is a great way to take care of your oral health, but what you do in between each dental visit is just as important. Practicing good dental hygiene habits at home can help prevent cavities and gum disease, so make sure you brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth with floss or another interdental cleaner. Additionally, visiting a dentist beyond the recommended appointments can be beneficial if you are struggling with any issues – visiting for additional cleaning or getting professional advice on how to keep your mouth healthy can go a long way. 

Taking these simple steps every day will not only help prevent major problems from developing but can also help ensure that every dental visit goes smoothly.

Is Visiting A Dentist Regularly Worth The Effort?

Visiting a dentist regularly is definitely worth the effort, as it allows you to maintain good overall dental hygiene and to also identify any potential oral health problems quickly. Even if your teeth may feel fine and you are not experiencing any pain, regular check-ups can help diagnose any minor issues before they become bigger problems. By visiting a dentist every six months, you can ensure that you can detect any cavities or gum diseases that may have arisen while they are still relatively easy to treat. Moreover, visiting your dental practitioner on an ongoing basis helps to preserve the condition of your pearly whites for years to come.

Visit Bespoke Dental now!

Regular dental visits are important for maintaining oral health. They can also catch potential problems early when they’re easier to treat. If it’s been a while since your last visit to the dentist, make an appointment today. At our office, we offer a wide range of services designed to keep your smile healthy and looking its best. Contact Bespoke Dental today to schedule an appointment.

What are the cosmetic dental procedures involved in a smile makeover?

Does Teeth Whitening Damage Your Teeth?

A gorgeous smile is an asset, both in your professional as well as your personal life. However, this smile can become dull and unsightly due to many reasons like not taking care of teeth, consuming foods and drinks that damage the teeth, etc. To revive your dull smile back to its former glory, the patient is suggested to get a smile makeover.

 A smile makeover is a set of procedures performed at the dental clinic to enhance the appearance as well the dental health of the patient. It is a customized plan created by the dentist upon consultation according to the patient’s needs. It is different for every patient.

Let us try to understand some procedures that may be included in a smile makeover.

1. Teeth whitening

Teeth whitening is the most common cosmetic procedure opted by patients. It helps brighten the teeth. The procedure involves a thorough examination of the teeth for any complications. After making sure that the patient doesn’t have any conditions that could damage the teeth, the dentist will proceed with the treatment.

A whitening gel or solution is applied to the patient’s teeth with the help of a brush. This whitening solution contains whitening agents like hydrogen peroxide, etc. It is left on the teeth for a few minutes.

After a while, laser light is used on the teeth to activate the whitening agents. The teeth are closely observed during this step. The teeth colour starts to change with the application of laser light. The laser is removed when the desired shade is achieved and the whitening solution is washed off.

The results from this procedure last for a long time if the patient properly takes care of them. Patients are also advised to show up for follow-up treatments to maintain the whiteness.

2. Porcelain veneers

Porcelain veneers are custom-made, shell-like veneers that are attached to the surface of the teeth. They are made of ceramic material. This material looks and functions like tooth enamel. Porcelain veneers can help correct uneven teeth, crooked teeth, gaps between teeth, etc.

The procedure begins by creating an appropriate dental plan with the dentist. The dentist will assess your needs and concerns and will prepare the strategy appropriately. During the next visit, the impression of your teeth will be taken. This impression will help in the preparation of customized porcelain veneers. It is then sent to the lab for preparation of the same.

After the veneers are prepared, the patient will be called to the clinic once again for the final appointment. During this visit, the dentist will place the veneers on the teeth and match the colour and appearance. After making sure that the veneers match the colour of the teeth, they will be bonded to the teeth with the help of dental cement. A light beam is shown on this cement for hardening. This appointment will take anywhere between 2- 3 hours.

3. Dental braces

Braces are dental tools attached to the surface of the teeth for straightening and realigning them. They are a very good choice for patients who want to correct crooked teeth. Braces also improve the appearance of the teeth. They take a few months for straightening the teeth but the results are worth it as they are long-lasting.

The procedure involves a thorough examination of the teeth, an X-ray may be advised. The next step involves placing brackets on the teeth surface with the help of dental cement. These brackets help hold the wire in place. A high-intensity light is shone on these brackets to harden the cement and strengthen the bonding of the brackets. Next, an arch wire is placed on these brackets and is tightened. The procedure ends here and does not take more than 30 minutes.

4. Dental bonding

Dental bonding is defined as the binding of a particular material that either strengthens the teeth or improves their appearance by filling in chips, cracks, and fill in cavities. It is bound to the teeth with the help of dental cement or other dental adhesives. In direct dental composite bonding, the composite material is applied directly to the surface of the teeth.

The procedure begins with applications of phosphoric acid solution to the teeth. This will help in better adhesion of the composite material to the surface of the teeth. It is removed from the teeth after 15 seconds. Composite material is applied to the surface in a putty-like form. Then it is sculpted with the help of tools to look just like natural teeth and is then dried and strengthened with the help of high-intensity light. Composite resin is the most common material used for bonding.

5. Dental implants

Dental implants are devices that act as false tooth roots and hold artificial teeth in place. They are used in cases of tooth loss. The procedure for dental implants begins with a consultation with the dentist and a thorough examination of the teeth. Any underlying dental issues are also supposed to be treated. If the patient has decaying teeth, cavities, etc. he or she is advised to get treatment for these issues first and then proceed with dental implants as these conditions can affect the impact of the implants.

Then, during placing the implants, a small incision is made in the gum to make the jawbone visible. A hole is made into the jaw for placement of the metal post. The metal post is usually made of titanium and is made to sit deep in the jawbone. The metal post is left undisturbed for a few weeks to promote Osseo integration and healing of the tissue. Once the tissue has healed, an abutment is placed above which a crown will be placed. The abutment is also given a few weeks for healing. After complete healing, impressions of the tooth are taken for the preparation of an artificial tooth. When the artificial tooth is prepared, it is placed on the crown and the procedure is completed.

If you are interested in a smile makeover, schedule a consultation with your dental clinic. They will be able to customize a plan taking into account your specific requirements.

What are the different procedures involved in designing a great smile?

Invisalign Vs Braces

A great dental smile is the simplest way to disarm others and introduce ourselves as a friendly and warm person. There are many ways to achieve a great smile with the help of professional procedures.

Procedures like dental braces, crowns, teeth cleaning treatments, etc. help the patient achieve the best version of their smile and also elevate their self-confidence.

Although inner happiness is most helpful in achieving a bright smile, some dental techniques can also help. Let us try to understand some of them.

Dental braces

Traditional braces are the most common procedure opted by patients to achieve a bright, even smile. Braces help the chipped and crooked teeth to align completely into a straight line. In modern dentistry, there are many types of braces available. The basic types are metallic braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces, self-ligating braces, etc.

Let us start with the most basic type of dental braces available and opted by patients: traditional metallic braces. Such braces stick to the surface of the teeth and the metal posts in it are joined together by an elastic wire. Now this elastic wire, along with metal posts can be customized according to the patient’s colour of choice since most of the patients opting for metallic braces are from a young age group. However, metallic braces require much more care and attention than ceramic braces.

Ceramic braces are made of a clear, flexible material, known as resin. These braces are a good choice for people who are self-conscious about their appearance. These braces allow the patient to be more comfortable as they don’t have metallic braces present in them like, unlike metallic braces. The braces are affordable as well. Self-ligating braces are very similar to metallic braces, the only difference is that instead of elastic wires, small clips known as “doors” hold the wire in place. These braces are affordable and can be installed quickly in a single appointment. Lingual braces are the braces which are present behind the teeth and provide pressure on them for alignment. These braces have a great advantage over other braces as they provide complete invisibility and are a very good option for patients who feel uncomfortable displaying their braces. However, there is a major drawback to such braces. These braces can be quite uncomfortable and may affect speech significantly.

Teeth whitening procedure

In-office teeth whitening procedure is a great way to achieve a beautiful smile. It begins with a dental inspection, and the dentist checks the teeth for any signs of underlying problems. Next, a whitening solution is applied to the surface of the teeth. This whitening solution contains various bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide. The concentration of the bleaching agent depends on the intensity of stains on the teeth. If the teeth are severely stained, the bleaching agent will be present in high concentrations. The next step involves the application of laser light over the solution for a few minutes so the bleaching agent can be activated. The teeth are then closely observed. This bleaching agent causes the teeth to become lighter in shade. Once the desired shade is achieved, the laser is removed and the teeth are rinsed. It is important to remove the laser at the right time, as the teeth can become too bright and may not match the patient’s complexion.

Invisalign aligners

Invisalign are transparent and removable dental braces that help align the teeth. They are recommended for patients who do not want braces to affect their appearance and want something flexible. Such braces are suitable for patients who have mildly crooked teeth. Unfortunately, these braces cannot fix severely crooked teeth. If the patient has highly crooked teeth but still wants to opt for Invisalign, the dentist may suggest pairing up Invisalign aligners along with lingual braces.

Dental veneers

Veneers are cap-like covers for the front of the teeth which are derived out of porcelain. They are used for aligning teeth into a straight line. They are prepared with the help of moulds which are created by taking impressions of the teeth. These veneers can also be used to correct the colour of the teeth by filling veneers with a whitening solution. The veneers are then bonded to the surface of the teeth permanently. Dental veneers just like dental braces are available in various types: porcelain veneers and resin veneers. The major difference between these veneers is that porcelain veneers are good at resisting stains than resin veneers. The dentist will examine the teeth and will tell the patient the best kind of veneers suitable for them. Veneers can be applied to achieve a bright smile if the patient properly cares for them.

The procedure begins with a dental examination, an X-ray may also be taken. The operation area may also be numbed and local anaesthesia may be used. A mould will be created by taking impressions of the teeth. This mould will help in the preparation of a dental veneer, which takes around 2 weeks for complete formation in the laboratory. When the veneers are bonded to the teeth, their colour can be adjusted according to the colour of the adhesive cement. These veneers can help the patient feel good about themselves by restoring confidence in their appearance.

Dental implants

Implants are a great way to replace missing teeth. They act as the tooth root and help create the base of the artificial tooth. They are of metallic origin and are completely installed in the mouth within a span of a few months. However, the installation process may take a while but the results are equally beneficial as these dental implants can last up to a lifetime if the patient properly takes care of them.

The procedure involves the fitting of metallic screws in the bone tissue after numbing the area. Then, a connector derived out of titanium or zirconium is attached to this screw. This connector is known as an abutment. A crown is fitted over this abutment and the procedure is completed.

These are some of the most common procedures that are involved in designing a great smile.