At Home Dental Care

If you are enjoying a sugary or starchy snack during the day, it is more than likely that your teeth and gums are being exposed to decay-causing elements. If you do consume these things, we recommend brushing and flossing your teeth after they are consumed or try and stay away from foods that can injure your teeth. In most cases, a soft diet is recommended for the first 48-hours after your procedure and to chew on the other side of your mouth and avoid hard and sticky foods. Also avoid foods that also break into small pieces when you chew them, such as raw vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and popcorn.

It is important to note that there may be sensitivity to hot and/or cold, pressure, and swelling after a dental procedure. In most cases, any discomfort will subside dramatically within the first 24-48-hours.

Systemic and oral health are closely interconnected. Here's how they influence each other:

1. Cardiovascular Disease: Poor oral health, particularly periodontal disease (gum disease), is associated with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Bacteria from inflamed gums can enter the bloodstream, leading to inflammation in blood vessels.
2. Diabetes: There is a bidirectional relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease. Poorly managed diabetes can lead to an increased risk of gum disease, and severe gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar levels.
3. Respiratory Infections: Bacteria from the mouth can be inhaled into the lungs, causing respiratory infections such as pneumonia, particularly in elderly or immunocompromised individuals.
4. Pregnancy Complication:: Poor oral health has been linked to preterm birth and low birth weight. Inflammatory responses to oral infections can influence pregnancy outcomes.
5. Osteoporosis: There is some evidence that suggests a connection between osteoporosis and bone loss in the jaw, which can lead to tooth loss.
6. Rheumatoid Arthritis: Chronic inflammation from periodontal disease can exacerbate rheumatoid arthritis, and vice versa, due to the body's inflammatory response mechanisms.

Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups can contribute significantly to overall health and help prevent systemic health issues.

When brushing, we recommend using a soft bristle toothbrush as it is gentler on your teeth and gums. As for toothpaste, this depends on your oral health as there are different toothpaste recommendations depending on your individual needs. If you are curious about which toothbrush or toothpaste is best for you, please call our practice to schedule an appointment.

Your gums may be tender around the tooth that has been worked on. Keeping your gums clean with gentle brushing, flossing, and rinsing with warm saltwater (1/2 tsp of regular table salt in 8oz of warm water) will help your gums recover more quickly.