Diabetes Can Affect Your Smile’s Health | Schnecksville Dentist

Diabetes is a disease that affects more and more people every day, but did you know that it affects more than just your blood sugar? It’s true. Diabetes not only needs to be monitored to maintain your overall health, but not taking care of your diabetes can also affect your mouth. Let’s explain.

Because diabetes revolves around your blood sugar levels, it can also affect the way your gums get infected, the bones that hold your teeth in place, and many other oral health issues. I know – it’s kind of overwhelming. But also, just a couple more reasons to make sure you take care of yourself when living with diabetes. Take a look at some ways to keep your dental health intact:

Diabetes first. Since you have now been diagnosed, it is important you make the necessary lifestyle changes in order to maintain a consistent level of health. Keep your blood levels in check, eat healthy and make sure to exercise regularly. Healthy body, healthy smile.

Don’t smoke. It’s already bad for your health, but cigarettes and cigars also contribute to dry mouth, gum disease, and tooth decay. Keep the tobacco out of your mouth and look forward to less instances of these issues arising.

Dental implants care. You may not think of it an important but if you have dental implants, you should spend extra attention to your cleaning techniques because it could cause potential problems. If you wear a full or partial denture, clean it thoroughly each day to reduce bacteria.

Oral hygiene. Of course, don’t forget your dental hygiene altogether. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and a soft toothbrush, use an antibacterial mouthwash, floss correctly once a day and see your dentist for regular checkups.

For more information about diabetes and your dental health, call Dr. Ladani in Schnecksville, PA at 610-799-0600 or visit www.extraordinarysmiles.net.

Dr. Sandip Ladani proudly serve patients from Schnecksville and all surrounding areas.

Bad Breath and What We Can Do About It | Schnecksville Dentist

If someone offers you a mint, chances are it’s a subtle hint that you may not have the freshest of breath. Halitosis is something that can be a temporary situation or something more serious. But with national days like Coffee with a Cop (October 5th), Moldy Cheese (October 9th), Sausage Pizza (October 11th), and American Beer (October 27th), it may be a good idea to talk about why we get bad breath and what we can do to avoid it.

Obviously, eating stinky foods will cause this issue, but there are times when bad breath is more than just some garlic breath. Physical conditions like issues with tonsils or your stomach, even some medications that can cause your breath to smell. If you find that your bad breath is becoming more common, check in with your doctor. Here are some other tips to preventing smelly breath:

  • Stay hydrated. If you can’t brush your teeth after a meal, drinking a lot of water can help speed up the process of cleaning harmful bacteria and debris from between your teeth.
  • Don’t drink too much coffee. It may be tasty, but coffee is a tough smell to get off the back of your tongue.
  • Avoid tobacco products. Cigarettes, pipes, and snuff can foul your breath.
  • Cut back on alcohol. Because of dry mouth, too much beer, wine, and hard liquor can make your breath reek for up to eight to 10 hours after you finish drinking.
  • Chew sugarless gum. 20 minutes after a meal can help with saliva flow, just make sure it’s 100% xylitol-sweetened to help reduce cavities.

For more information about bad breath, call Dr. Ladani in Schnecksville, PA at 610-799-0600 or visit www.extraordinarysmiles.net.

Dr. Sandip Ladani proudly serve patients from Schnecksville and all surrounding areas.

There’s Nowhere to Hide | Schnecksville Dentist

While cavities and plaque build-up may be what’s on your mind before a teeth cleaning, your dentist is looking for a whole lot more. Diseases like cancer, anemia and diabetes will first be identified by the dentist in a regular examination, and this can save lives. So, before you try to think that you can pull a fast one on your dentist, think again…

Flossing only before appointments. Sorry, but you can’t fool your dentist into thinking you floss daily by doing so the night before or morning of your visit.

You’re pregnant. Nearly 40% of women will develop gingivitis during their pregnancy because of an increase of progesterone, which facilitates the growth of bacteria, causing gingivitis.

Thumb sucking. Most children that suck their thumbs or a finger have no long-term effects from the habit, but prolonged activity may show significant changes to their bite or the position of their teeth.

Bad breath issues. Dentists are trained to identify “fruity” smells (uncontrolled diabetes) and “fishy” smells (kidney or liver failure). If the smell is very foul it could be a major health issue.

Eating disorders. Bulimia exhibits a very distinct pattern of tooth wear that your dentist can easily identify. Other possibilities include acid reflux and the use of antidepressants or mood-elevating drugs.

Oral cancer. The first signs of oral cancer can be seen from the following: unexplained bleeding in the mouth, white, red, or speckled patches, swellings or eroded areas on areas inside the mouth.

Soda and energy drinks. Teeth can be softened by sodas and energy beverages over time, which may make a tooth more susceptible to chipping.

For more information about dental health, call Dr. Sandip Ladani in Schnecksville, PA at 610-799-0600 or visit www.extraordinarysmiles.net.

Dr. Ladani proudly serve patients from Schnecksville and all surrounding areas.