Medical App & Medical Advice with Hello Doctor

10 bad habits that can damage your teeth

Certain habits and lifestyle choices wreak havoc on your teeth. Here’s how you can put these habits to rest.

1. Fizzy and sports drinks

Fizzy drinks are packed with sugar that leaves a coat of acid on the enamel of your teeth.
What to do instead: Stay hydrated with fresh water; add fresh or frozen fruit for a bit of flavour.

2. Eating sticky and sugary treats

Sugary, chewy and gummy sweets stick around and between your teeth. These attract bacteria which contributes to tooth decay.
What to do instead: Try crunchy fruit and veggies, like apples or carrots. While you chew, your mouth produces more saliva, which helps to rinse away sticky residue.

3. Using your teeth as a tool

This may be a convenient way to crack open certain things but using your teeth as a tool can cause them to chip or crack.
What to do instead: Use your hands, a bottle opener or scissors instead.

4. Smoking, vaping or chewing tobacco

Cigarettes and tobacco products can stain your teeth, cause gum and periodontal disease, tooth decay and tooth loss
What to do instead: Talk to your doctor about finding ways to help you quit.

5. Chewing on ice, pens and pencils

Mindlessly nibbling at a pen when you’re concentrating or chomping on ice after your cold drink can crack or chip your teeth, irritate the soft tissue inside teeth and cause regular toothaches.
What to do instead: Chew sugar-free chewing gum instead.

6. Grinding teeth

Stress and sleeping habits can cause teeth grinding, which wear teeth down over time.
What to do instead: Wear a mouth guard at night to protect your teeth and reduce mouth pain.

7. Brushing too hard

Firm bristles and brushing aggressively can damage teeth and irritate gums.
What to do instead: Choose a brush with soft bristles and replace it every 3 months. This lowers the risk fo creating an environment for nasty bacteria to grow on your brush bristles.

8. Playing sports without a mouthguard

A hit to the mouth can cause chipped or loose teeth when you play contact sport without a mouthguard.
What to do instead: Get a mouth guard at your local pharmacy or talk to your dentist about a custom-made one.

9. Nail-Biting

Regularly biting your nails can cause your teeth to move out of place, potentially cause teeth to break or tooth enamel to splinter.
What to do instead: Carry a nail clipper for convenience.

10. Eating too much fruit

Some diets promote eating large amounts of fruit, but it might be doing damage to your pearly whites. Acid causes tooth enamel to wear down and exposes your teeth and gums to sensitivity.
What to do instead: Eat fruit in moderation and learn which fruits contain more sugar and acid. Also, be sure to visit the dentist twice a year.

References:

What is an overbite and how do you treat it?

Also known as “buck teeth”, most people have some degree of an overbite. An overbite is when your upper front teeth overlap your lower front teeth. Having an overbite is often hereditary, but can also be caused by thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting, the extended use of a dummy or pacifier, or missing teeth.

Causes of buck teeth

Thumb-sucking

Sucking your thumb may seem harmless, but over time the pressure created from sucking, along with the finger that is sucked, can cause your teeth to form an abnormal angle.

Using a dummy

Sucking on a pacifier can cause an overbite in the same way thumb-sucking can.

Tongue thrusting

This is when you press your tongue too far forward in your mouth an overbite could form. It’s usually common in children but could continue into adulthood. Having swollen tonsils or poor swallowing habits may also cause tongue thrusting.

Unevenly spaced teeth

Having missing teeth or extra space in your mouth makes having an overbite more likely. That’s because uneven spacing or too many teeth in your mouth can cause the appearance of buck teeth. In addition, missing teeth can cause the remaining teeth to gradually shift over time, affecting the position of your front teeth.

Tumours or cysts in your mouth or jaw

If a cyst or tumour grows in your mouth, the alignment of your teeth or the shape of your mouth and jaw can change, resulting in buck teeth. This happens when a soft tissue or bony swelling forms in the upper part of your mouth, causing your teeth to move forward.

Overbite health issues

A slight overbite may not cause noticeable issues, but a more severe case may cause:

  • Speech impediments
  • Damage to your teeth and gums
  • Trouble chewing
  • Breathing problems
  • Pain when chewing and biting
  • Change in the appearance of your face

Treatment

Usually, treatment for an overbite isn’t necessary. If you experience pain or any discomfort, or aren’t happy with the appearance of your teeth, talk to your dentist or an orthodontist.

Don’t try to fix your overbite at home as you could do further damage. As the size and shapes of teeth vary, each case will need different treatment.

Braces

The most common treatment for an overbite are braces and retainers for your mouth. These work because metal wires or brackets that are attached to your teeth gradually moves them over time. This eventually gives you a straighter looking smile. Most people get braces or a retainer in their teen years, but adults can also benefit from this treatment.

Jaw surgery

If your overbite is severe, surgery may be needed. Surgery may also be needed if your upper and lower jaw has stopped growing correctly. Tooth extraction may also be an option if you have too many teeth in your mouth.

Palate expansion

If your upper jaw is too small to accommodate your teeth, a procedure called palate expansion can be done. A special appliance made up of two pieces is attached to the upper molar teeth. This treatment is usually used to help children whose adult teeth can’t fit comfortably in their mouth.

Living with an overbite

You could live comfortably with a slight overbite if you keep your teeth healthy, but it’s best to check with a dentist to make sure. You may not have any discomfort at the moment, but on the long-run, an overbite can cause damage to your teeth.

Avoid oral health issues:

  • Use a mouth guard to prevent tongue thrusting.
  • Practice oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly.
  • See your dentist regularly.

References:

What can I do about sensitive teeth?

Tooth sensitivity happens when the underlying layer of your teeth, the dentin, becomes exposed because of a receding gum tissue (the protective blanket that covers the tooth roots).

What causes sensitive teeth?

Cavities, cracked teeth, tooth whitening, receding gums, enamel or root erosion and gingivitis (gum disease) are some of the most common causes of sensitive teeth.

When are teeth more likely to be sensitive?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, these are the key factors contributing to sensitive teeth:

  • Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing too hard can wear down enamel and cause dentin to become exposed, and/or encourage gum recession.
  • Gum recession happens to those who suffer from periodontal disease, which exposes the dentin.
    Gingivitis, a gum disease that causes inflamed gums
  • Cracked teeth become filled with bacteria from plaque and cause inflammation in the pulp of the tooth.
  • Teeth grinding or clenching can wear down enamel.
  • Plaque build-up.
  • Long-term use of mouthwash. Some over-the-counter mouthwashes have acids. If dentin is exposed the acids can make existing tooth sensitivity worse and also further damage the dentin layer.
  • Acidic foods enable enamel reduction.
  • Dental procedures can cause sensitivity after professional cleaning, root planning, crown replacement and other tooth restoration procedures. Usually the pain will disappear in four to six weeks.

Is there anything I should avoid if I have sensitive teeth?

  • Avoid highly acidic foods.
  • Steer clear of teeth-whitening products.
  • Avoid teeth grinding. Consider getting a mouth guard.

Do I need to see my dentist?

When you experience persistent pain and sensitivity, especially on a single tooth, see a doctor. This could be a sign that there’s something more serious going on. Make sure to mention any tooth sensitivity to your dentist during your next visit.

Your dentist should be able to address sensitivity issues depending on its cause. Procedures like fillings, fluoride varnishes, fluoride gel or desensitising agents, a crown, an inlay or onlay, a surgical gum graft or a root canal can all help relieve nagging toothache.

How can I prevent sensitive teeth?

  • Brush your teeth twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste (brush your teeth with softer strokes and use a soft bristled brush)
  • Floss once a day
  • Minimise teeth whitening
  • Limit sugary, starchy, and acidic foods
  • Limit alcohol intake
  • Wear a mouth guard at night to prevent teeth grinding and clenching
  • Visit a dentist regularly
  • Quit smoking

References:

10 ways to use coconut oil this summer

Did you know there’s an-all-purpose oil that’s beneficial for your health? Believe it or not, the fleshy meat of a coconut is good for your health, both inside and out!

Coconut oil is extracted from the edible meat, the “kernel”, of the coconut. It’s extracted through various methods, which is why you’ll find different types of coconut oil like refined, unrefined or virgin.

You can use coconut oil in cooking, baking, and even as part of your beauty routine.

Let’s further explore the wide ranges of its uses:

1. Sautéing and frying

Coconut oil is great for cooking at a high heat because of its high smoke point. Oils like olive oil can oxidise when heated, but because coconut oil is made up of healthy saturated fats, it’s stable under high temperatures. It’s also great for non-stick cooking.

2. A natural moisturiser

At room temperature, it’s solid, but quickly melts when in contact with warm hands. Don’t rely on this natural oil to keep you protected from cancer-causing UV radiation though; you’d still need to apply sunscreen every day.

3. Improve your dental health

The natural oil can be a powerful weapon against the bacteria in your mouth that causes dental plaque, tooth decay and gum disease. Swishing coconut oil around in your mouth for 10 minutes, also known as oil pulling, has been found to be as effective as rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash in reducing bacteria.

4. Remove Makeup

Tired of battling with scrubbing mascara off? Worry no more! Apply a little oil on a cotton pad and wipe gently until all traces of makeup are gone. Coconut oil is also effective at removing colour fast and long lasting lipsticks.

5. Relieve eczema itch and loosen psoriasis scales

If you suffer from eczema and psoriasis, an autoimmune disease that causes skin cells to build up, coconut oil is a safe natural remedy to try. It can help soothe the rough, red and scaly patches. Enjoy a hot bath by adding a couple of tablespoons of coconut oil to the tub to relieve itchy and scaly skin.

6. Treat your feet

Sweaty feet can result in athlete’s foot, a common fungal infection. Coconut oil may help soothe the infection and flaking skin. Apply an anti-fungal cream to treat the athlete’s foot and top it with a layer of organic coconut oil. This is an excellent fix for cracked heels too.

7. Ingrown hair treatment and preventer

Rubbing a little oil on the areas where you regularly shave or are prone to bumps and infection can help relieve symptoms of ingrown hairs. The oil helps soften the skin, so hair can easily grow properly through the follicle without becoming ingrown. Oil also helps to get rid of any infection causing bacteria.

8. Improve wound healing

Coconut oil contains a fatty acid called monolaurin, which is renowned for its antimicrobial effects. Using high-quality coconut oil may help reduce the risk of infection in healing wounds.

9. Anti-fungal cream

Because of its antibiotic capabilities, coconut oil can be used on the skin to assist in treating skin fungus.

10. Nail cuticle oil

To help reduce the risk of developing fungal infections, apply coconut oil to your finger beds. This will make it easy to push back cuticles which in turn promotes nail growth.

References:

What is this bump on my gum?

Although it may ring alarm bells, a bump on your gum is usually harmless. Common culprits include a bacterial infection or a build-up of excess plaque.

Sometimes though, there could be other offenders. Here are some common reasons why there could be a bump on your gum.

A dental cyst

Cysts are small bubbles usually filled with liquid, air or other soft materials. They form around the roots of dead or buried teeth. Dental cysts rarely cause symptoms but if they become infected, they start to swell and become painful. If you suspect you have a cyst, it’s important to let your doctor know. If a cyst is large, it could put pressure on your teeth and weaken your jaw over time.

How is it treated?

Dental cysts can be removed with simple surgery. Your doctor will remove the cyst and treat any tissue that may cause it to grow again.

Abscess

If you develop a bacterial infection in your mouth, you could end up with a periodontal abscess. An abscess feels like a soft, warm, painful bump in your mouth.

Common symptoms include:

  • Pain on one side that spreads to your jaw, ear and neck.
  • Throbbing pain that comes on suddenly and gets worse over time.
  • Redness and swelling on your face and gums.

How is it treated?

If you think you have an abscess, see your dentist immediately. Any pus in the growth will be drained and the abscess will be removed. If the infection is severe, a tooth may need to be removed too.

Tumour

A tumour is a kind of bump that can form on the gums, and the sides of your cheeks, tongue and lips. It’s an abnormal swelling and the most common kind is called fibroma. It usually forms if you injure your gum or if it’s irritated from oral fittings like braces or dentures. They aren’t usually painful and look like hard, smooth lumps or skin tags.

How is it treated?

Fibromas don’t require treatment in most case. If it grows large though, see your doctor so he can remove it.

Canker sore

If you have a growth in your mouth with white or yellow spots and redness around it, you could have a canker sore. Cankers sores are small mouth ulcers that can be found at the base of your gums. Canker sores are usually harmless but often painful. They’re usually raised, tender bumps that are especially sore when you eat or drink.

How are they treated?

Canker sores often heal on their own so treatment isn’t necessary. Over-the-counter ointments or gels can help with the pain. Ask your pharmacist for help.

Oral cancer

Although most mouth bumps are generally harmless, in severe cases, a bump could unfortunately mean cancer. Oral cancer can form in any part of your oral cavity, including your gums. It may look like a small growth, lump or thickened skin.

Some symptoms:

  • A bleeding sore.
  • Tongue pain.
  • Jaw pain.
  • A white or red patch on your gums.
  • Loose teeth.
  • A sore throat and pain when swallowing.

How is it treated?

If you suspect you could have oral cancer, talk to your doctor immediately for treatment. To test if the bump is cancerous, your doctor will take a sample of tissue from the bump and check it for cancer cells. If it’s cancer, treatment could include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

See your doctor immediately if you have a mouth bump along with:

  • Throbbing pain.
  • A sore that won’t heal.
  • A fever.
  • A foul taste in your mouth.
  • A lump that doesn’t clear up after a few weeks.
  • Bleeding.
  • Red or white patches.

References:

5 (slightly) awkward health problems

Aside from adjusting to your new life on campus and being away from home, you’re also faced with health problems as you interact in a different environment and with people from unique backgrounds.

Your campus student health centre or clinic should be the first place you visit when you have healthcare needs.

Here are five health problems you should know about:

The common cold or influenza

As a student, the common cold or flu is one of the main health issues you’ll face. Viruses that cause colds and flu are spread when you breathe them in after someone has been coughing or sneezing next to you, or by rubbing your eyes or nose after you have been in contact with a sick person.

Try and stay away from a friend with a runny nose and always wash your hands avoid picking up the virus.

Symptoms of a common cold are:

  • Dry cough with a sore throat.
  • Fatigue and muscular aches.
  • Frequent sneezing and coughing.
  • A blocked nose.
  • High temperature with a headache.
  • Running or blocked nose.
  • Stomach-related problems like diarrhoea, vomiting or nausea.

Prevention is better than cure. Get a flu vaccination at your campus clinic.

Bad breath

Bad breath is the last thing you want your friends to remember you for! If you suffer from this unfortunate issue, there’s a reason why. Breath problems are usually caused by a build-up of plaque on your teeth which results in a gum infection.

Other culprits include:

  • Tonsil infection.
  • Inflammation of the gums.
  • Hormonal changes.
  • A dry mouth.
  • Crash diets.
  • Tooth decay.
  • A sore throat or postnasal drip.

Fight bad breath with good dental hygiene. Still, it’s best to see a dentist to check for underlying issues. Remember to floss regularly and brush your teeth and tongue twice a day. Lay off the cigarettes, and, if your mouth tends to get dry, pop a sugar-free mint or chewing gum to get that saliva flow going.

STDs

It’s important to be aware and proactive about STDs and your sexual. Sexually transmitted diseases are spread from person to person during any sexual activity. You should always practise safe sex! Use a new condom every time you have sex; this includes oral sex too. To avoid contracting STDs make sure you get tested regularly. Get tested as soon as you experience any symptoms or if your current or former partner has been diagnosed with an infection.

Symptoms:

  • A rash in the genital area.
  • Burning and painful urination.
  • Pain during sex.
  • Discharge (thick or thin leakage from the vagina or penis)
  • Itching in the genital area.
  • Vaginal blisters or blisters in the genital area

Many sexually transmitted diseases don’t have immediate or obvious symptoms, so the smart thing to do is to get tested. Don’t wait too long to see a doctor should you experience any symptoms. If treatment begins early enough, you can be cured.

Mental health

Your psychological, emotional and social wellbeing at university will always be tested. This will affect the way you think, feel, and act. This could result in isolation which might affect your studies. If you feel you’re depressed or suffering from anxiety, talk to a friend or family member and see a campus psychologist.

Strep throat

Sore throat? You could have Strep throat,  a contagious bacterial infection. When a person who has strep throat breathes, coughs or sneezes, tiny droplets with the strep bacteria go into the air. If these happen to land on you, you could be infected. Its symptoms usually begin within two to five days after you encounter the infected person.

Symptoms:

  • A sever and onset sore throat.
  • High temperature.
  • Pain when you swallow.
  • Inflamed tonsils and lymph nodes.
  • Yellow or white spots on the back side of a red and inflamed throat.

Because you’re highly contagious, it’s best to stay at home to avoid spreading it to others. Use tissues you can throw away instead of handkerchiefs, wash your hands often, and don’t sneeze or cough on others. See a doctor; strep throat is usually treated with antibiotics to help you feel better faster.

References:

Dry mouth? Here’s what you can do about it

Saliva plays an important role in your health. It has the ability to lubricate which helps to protect the oral tissues in your mouth against sores, ulcers and other movements that come with eating and speaking. It also helps neutralise acids and defend your mouth against conditions like tooth decay and bacteria. Think of saliva as your tasting and digestion friend.

When saliva isn’t produced enough and properly, these functions become impaired and dry mouth happens. Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a condition where the salivary glands don’t make enough saliva to keep your mouth wet. Dry mouth could be a simple irritation – or something very serious.

Symptoms:

  • Dry or sticky feeling in your mouth.
  • Saliva that seems thick and stringy.
  • Bad breath.
  • Difficulty chewing, speaking and swallowing.
  • A dry, or sore throat.
  • Dry or grooved tongue.
  • A changed sense of taste.

What causes dry mouth?

There are different reasons why the salivary glands can stop working. This includes:

Medication

Many forms of medication, including over-the-counter drugs can leave you with dry mouth as a side-effect. These may include prescription drugs used to treat anxiety, pain, allergies, colds, obesity, depression, high blood pressure, and some antihistamines, muscle relaxants and sedatives.

Ageing

When you get older, dry mouth can stem from factors like changes in your body’s ability to process medication, poor nutrition and long-term health problems.

Recreational drug use

Stay away from drugs like methamphetamine and marijuana.

Some health conditions

Certain health conditions like diabetes, stroke, HIV/AIDS, thrush and Alzheimer’s disease contribute to dry mouth. Snoring and breathing with your mouth open can also cause it.

Tobacco and alcohol use

Drinking alcohol excessively and smoking or chewing tobacco products could be dry mouth culprits.

Nerve damage

An injury or surgery that causes nerve damage to your neck or head can cause dry mouth.

Dehydration

Sweating, diarrhoea, fever, vomiting, blood loss and burns are conditions that dehydrate your body and may cause dry mouth.

Cancer therapy

Certain cancer therapies like chemotherapy can temporarily reduce the amount of saliva you’re able to produce. Radiation treatments to the neck and head may damage salivary glands, lessening the amount of saliva. Both these may cause dry mouth as the production of saliva changes.

Treating dry mouth

  • Drink lots of water to keep your mouth moist at all times.
  • Chew sugar-free sweets or gum.
  • Breathe through your nose (not your mouth) as far as possible.
  • Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day and visit your dentist regularly.
  • Use over-the-counter artificial saliva substitute.
  • If you think your dry mouth comes from certain medication, talk to your doctor who may suggest that you swap to a different medication.
  • If your dry mouth continues for a long period, talk to your doctor.

References:

Why is your jaw hurting?

We don’t tend to think much of our jaws…until it gives us problems. Your jawbone connects to your skull with two joints; called temporomandibular joints (TMJs). These are found just in front of your ears and allows you to open and close your mouth. Your jaw also holds your teeth and gums.

If you experience jaw pain, you’ll struggle to do everyday things like eating and speaking, and it’s usually due to something that’s gone wrong with your teeth, gums or the TMJ.

Common symptoms of jaw pain include a clicking sound when you open your mouth, pain or aches around your face, ears, or, headaches, dizziness, vision problems and ringing in your ears.

Reasons for jaw pain

Sinus problems

Your sinuses are filled with air and located close to the jaw joint. If they become infected with a virus or bacteria, then excess mucus will be produced. The mucus puts pressure on the jaw joint which causes pain.

Teeth clenching or grinding

Grinding your teeth and clenching your jaw (also known as bruxism) can happen even when you’re not conscious of it, like during sleep. This can lead to both tooth damage and jaw pain. Stress can also cause you to clench your jaw or grind your teeth.

Dental problems

Conditions like gum disease, damaged teeth, abscesses, and tooth gaps can cause jaw pain.

Cluster headaches

This kind of headache is severe, causing pain behind or around your eyes and one side of your face. It can affect your jaw as well.

Arthritis

Some types of arthritic conditions like osteoarthritis and osteoarthrosis can affect both sides of the face, causing swelling, jaw pain, limited movement of the jaw, stiffness and tenderness.

Neuropathic pain

Long-term pain which happens when nerves become damaged. It sends pain signals to the brain which can affect the jaw.

Prevention

  • Take small bites of food when eating.
  • Avoid crunchy foods, chewing gum, and biting your fingernails.
  • Eat soft, liquid foods like pasta and soup.
  • Avoid yawning widely.
  • If you’re often stressed you may suffer with frequent jaw pain. Try getting a massage, meditating and aerobic exercise for relief.
  • Avoid grinding your teeth.
  • See your dentist regularly to keep your teeth and mouth healthy.
  • Avoid carrying bags on your shoulders for long periods.

Jaw pain treatment

Heat or ice packs

To relax your jaw, run warm water on a washcloth and apply to your jaw. For jaw pain, put ice into a plastic bag or on a thin cloth. Apply it for 10 minutes. Give your jaw a break and then apply the coldness again. Use at 10-minute intervals for either option.

Over-the-counter pain medication

Ask your pharmacist or doctor about pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help with jaw pain.

Massage your jaw

Press the sore areas of your jaw using your index and middle finger, including the areas near where your jaw joints attach. Rub in a circular motion five to 10 times. Open your mouth, and repeat. To decrease tension, massage the sides of your neck as well.

Antibiotics

If your jaw pain is caused by an infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics.

If you’re not sure what the cause is, why not chat to one of our doctors? They can help you get to the bottom of it!

References:

Why is the roof of my mouth sore?

A swollen palate can be caused by an allergic reaction, irritants, an injury and infections that can lead to a burning sensation. This makes it difficult to eat and drink.

Here are some common causes why the roof of your mouth could be sore:

Bumps

Hot tea or coffee and spicy foods are the main culprits that cause bumps on your palate. The skin on the hard palate is much more delicate than your tongue. A minor burn on the palate can cause bumps. The burns can damage the roof of your mouth, make blisters, and cause swelling. Usually a burnt palate heals itself within a week. Ease your discomfort by eating soft foods and drinking cool beverages.

Canker sores

Canker sores are round, sensitive sores that develop on the inside of your cheeks. At times, they find their way to the roof of your mouth. The causes of these sores are linked to problems with the immune system. The sores are then triggered by stress, certain foods and hormonal changes. These sores usually hurt for about a week and may disappear after two weeks. Stay away from foods that will aggravate pain. If these sores are still lurking after two weeks, see a doctor or dentist.

Cold sores

Cold sores are usually found on the lips but can also form on the roof of your mouth or gums. A cold sore is a common growth caused by the herpes simplex virus. A cold sore on your palate is usually painful with fluid-filled blisters. These buggers typically become crusty within four days after appearing. After eight to 10 days they should heal. Avoid touching or picking at them as this will slow down the healing process. If the sores don’t clear on their own, your dentist or doctor will be able to help you. The bad news with cold sores is that they come back, so it might be worth speaking to your doctor about a long-term prescription.

Dental issues

The throbbing of a toothache can be intense, but an infection on the top of your tooth can put more pressure on soft tissues in the roof of the mouth. Tooth abscess can cause an infection or ulcer to spread from the gum line to the palate. See your doctor for treatment to help reduce the pain.

Mouth Cancer

While some mouth sores can heal on their own and end up harmless, some may be serious. Sores on the roof of your mouth can sometimes be a symptom of oral cancer. The good news is that oral cancer can be treated if it’s found early. If your sores are white or red and don’t heal after two weeks, see your doctor or dentist.

Some Home Remedies

Salt water

Salt water can help sterilise the mouth in case of an infection and ease pain. Mix a glass of salt into warm water. Swish the mixture around your mouth for a minute without swallowing.

Aloe vera

A mouth gel made with aloe vera can help soothe inflammation and open wounds. Ask your pharmacist for advice.

Ice cubes

Place an ice cube in the area of discomfort.  The cooling sensation will help reduce swelling and numb the pain as there will be less blood flow to the area.

Honey

Apply honey directly to the pain. Honey is a natural treatment that can help get rid of cold sores. It’s also effective as an over-the-counter medication for cold sores because it contains flavonoids and phenolic acid which helps fight the herpes simplex virus.

References

What your tongue tells you about your health

Your tongue is one of the most powerful organs that you have. It’s made up of a mobile group of muscles that are attached to the floor of the mouth. We use this fleshy pink organ to taste, lick, swallow and speak. The top of the tongue is covered with small bumps called papillae. The majority of our tastebuds are found in these papillae.

Your tongue does more than help you gobble down your food; it assists with digestion and mouth cleaning during the chewing and swallowing process. This muscular organ also holds secrets about your health!

Stick out your tongue

Your tongue can be a reflector of your health by its smell, appearance and texture.

This is what your tongue says about you…

Red or strawberry tongue

  • You may have a vitamin deficiency. A bright and glossy red tongue says that your body lacks iron or Vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 and iron are needed to mature papillae on the tongue. If you have a deficiency of those vitamins, you lose those papillae, which can make your tongue appear very smooth.
  • Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection that develops in some people who have strep throat and it can cause the tongue to have a red and bumpy appearance.
  • Kawasaki Disease, which is often seen in children under the age of five and usually comes with a high fever, can also cause the strawberry-like appearance.

Whites patches, spots or coating

  • This could be oral thrush; a yeast infection that develops inside the mouth. It appears in the form of white patches that look like cottage cheese. It’s commonly seen in infants, the elderly who wear dentures and people with weak immune systems. Oral thrush is likely to appear after you’ve taken antibiotics for a long time.
  • Leukoplakia is a condition that causes the cells in the mouth to grow excessively. This leads to white patches on the tongue and inside the mouth. Leukoplakia can develop when the tongue has been irritated but is often seen in people who use tobacco.

Sore or bumpy

  • Smoking can irritate your tongue and cause soreness.
  • A lump or sore on your tongue that doesn’t go away within two weeks could be a sign of oral cancer.
  • Mouth ulcers can be sore and bumpy. These can be caused by stress and may heal within a week or two.
  • Your tongue may look bumpy after you eat something spicy or hot which can make your tastebuds temporarily inflamed.

Black and hairy tongue

  • The papillae (home to your tastebuds) on your tongue grow throughout your lifetime. When they become too long, it becomes easier for bacteria to grow and stay there. When these bacteria grow, they may look dark or black, and the overgrown papillae can have a hair-like appearance. This isn’t common or too serious, but it’s likely to happen in people who don’t have good oral hygiene.

Fissures or cracks

  • A fissured tongue commonly happens to people with Down syndrome, a chromosomal disorder. It’s also associated with Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome, a rare neurological disorder, characterised by facial paralysis, swelling of the face and lips, and the development of folds and furrows in the tongue.

Worried about something on your tongue? Why not chat to one of our doctors? They can help you decide how serious it is.  Always check your tongue for any changes when you brush your teeth.

References

Food to give you a bright smile

Are you really what you eat? Well, your teeth can attest to that. A quick bite of your favourite meal may satisfy your hunger and cravings, but what is it doing to your teeth? It’s important to remember, your milk teeth days are gone. The pearly whites you have today are the only ones you’ll have for your life, so we need to look after them!

As you age, your tooth enamel tends to degrade. Aside from brushing, flossing and regular dental visits, certain foods can strengthen tooth enamel, prevent cavities, ward off gum disease, and even whiten your teeth.

The villains

Nip that butt

Smoking has serious health consequences, and stains your teeth. This is caused by the nicotine and tar in tobacco. Smoking can also cause tooth loss, gum disease, bad breath and diminish your sense of taste.

Guilty pleasure

Foods that contain sugars can contribute to tooth decay. Sweets and fizzy drinks are culprits in causing the hard, outer layer of your teeth to wither away. Bacteria, and bad oral hygiene habits cause more decay, which later leads to tiny holes in the teeth. These acids can cause the tooth enamel to break down and form a cavity.

Nutrition and oral health

If your diet lacks the necessary nutrients, your mouth may have a difficult time fighting off infection. Make an effort to restrict the amount of sugar you eat. Read food labels and choose low-sugar foods and drinks.

Brighten your smile

Strawberries 

These berries are packed with malic acid; an enzyme that naturally makes teeth whiter.

Milk, yoghurt and cheese

Dairy products contain lactic acid. These may help protect against decay. Research suggests that the proteins in yoghurt can bind to your teeth and prevent an attack by harmful acids that cause cavities. A study has found that kids who ate yoghurt four times a week had less tooth decay than kids who didn’t.

Pineapples

Pineapple naturally contains bromelain; a compound with anti-inflammatory and cleansing properties. It’s been found to be an effective ingredient in stain-removing toothpastes.

Apples

This fruit may be sweet, but it’s also high in fibre and water. Eating an apple produces saliva in your mouth, which rinses away bacteria and food particles.

Celery

Just like how your toothbrush scrapes away food particles and bacteria from your teeth, the crunch of celery as you chew does the same. It’s also a good source of vitamins A and C and has antioxidants that can boost the health of your gums.

Carrots

Carrots can be your cavity-fighting friend. Sticks of raw and crunchy carrots act as a natural toothbrush. The vegetable contains Vitamin A, which is vital for strengthening delicate tooth enamel. Snack on a carrot as an in-between-meal treat to massage your gums and clean in between teeth.

References:

5 health benefits of chewing gum

Chewing gum can be fun, and good for you. Here are the most interesting health-benefits:

  1. Combat stress and anxiety.

Chewing gum can relieve nervous energy and reduce tension. This is a nice by-product of the act of chewing itself. According to an Australian study, the rhythmic motion of gum chewing can help lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, making you feel calmer and more relaxed.

  1. Boost memory.

Chewing gum increases blood flow to the brain. This, in turn, increases oxygen to the brain, which can help enhance your memory and cognitive performance. Some studies have reported that chewing gum increases blood flow to the brain by 25-40%. Continuous chewing also activates your hippocampus, the part of your brain that’s crucial to your memory and learning.

  1. Better concentration.

Besides boosting your memory, chewing gum can also increase your focus and alertness. The chewing movement is thought to stimulate nerves and areas in the brain associated with arousal, in addition to increasing blood flow. This may help you feel more awake. Mint-flavoured gum is especially useful here, finds a study in Physiology & Behaviour.

  1. Suppress appetite.

Trying to drop a few kilos? Chew on this: a study published in the journal Appetite found that chewing gum for at least 45 minutes or 15 minutes per hour for three hours, reduced appetite and cravings for snacks, and increased the feeling of fullness. This concludes that chewing gum regularly may help you eat less and prevent overeating, which may help you lose weight.

  1. Improve oral health.

Chewing gum increases saliva flow, which helps wash away harmful sugars, food debris and decay-causing acids from your mouth. It can fight bad breath, prevent stains, reduce plaque and protect against cavities and tooth decay. Just make sure your gum is sugar-free. Sugar feeds the bad bacteria in your mouth, which can damage your teeth. Look for a gum sweetened with xylitol. Xylitol prevents the growth of the bacteria that cause tooth decay and bad breath.

Too much of a good thing

Before you stock up on every sugar-free gum you can find, it’s worth noting the effects of too much chewing. Excessive gum chewing can lead to:

  • Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). The temporomandibular joint is where the jaw attaches to the skull. If the muscles that hold this joint are overused and become fatigued, the joint can move out of place, causing TMJ. This can result in jaw pain, earache, toothache, and reduced movement or locking of the joint.
  • Habitual chewing can cause fatigue in the facial muscles responsible for moving the jaw during chewing. Most people also chew on the one side of their mouth, exhausting the muscles unequally. This can result in headaches and migraines, especially if you chew hard and vigorously.
  • Tooth erosion. Even if you chew sugar-free gum, your teeth are still at risk. Sugar-free gum often contains acidic flavourings and preservatives that may wear the enamel off your teeth. As the enamel erodes, your teeth may become more sensitive to hot, cold and acidic foods.
  • Digestive problems. The artificial sweeteners in sugar-free gum have a laxative effect. Chewing lots of sugar-free gum can cause digestive distress and diarrhoea. Chewing gum also causes you to swallow air, which can lead to abdominal pain and bloating. What’s more, when you chew gum you send your body signals that food is about to enter your body. The enzymes and acids that are activated when you chew gum are released, but without the food they’re intended to digest. This can cause an overproduction of stomach acid, and affect your ability to produce digestive secretions when you do eat.

References: