Mouth ulcers can pop up for any number of reasons, and most of the time, they’re nothing to be worried about. But that doesn’t change the fact that they can be annoying and painful, causing you to want to find the best way to get rid of mouth ulcers quickly. Check out some of the things your dentist in Asheboro may recommend to ease ulcer discomfort and make them disappear. 

How to Treat an Ulcer at Home

Thankfully, there are several at-home remedies you can use to treat a mouth ulcer and alleviate pain. 

• Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater several times a day
• Don’t eat spicy foods
• Drink water throughout the day
• Buy an over-the-counter topical anesthetic
• Continue to brush and floss your teeth every day

Should You See Your Dentist When You Have an Ulcer?

While most ulcers will heal on their own in about 10-14 days, if an ulcer lasts longer than three weeks, contact your dentist in Asheboro as soon as possible. They may recommend antiseptic treatments, steroids, or immunosuppressants. Other signs that you should see your dentist for an ulcer include: 

• Noticeable sores with no pain
• Really large ulcers
• Fever
• Ulcers on the outside of your mouth
• Pain that doesn’t go away with the use of medication

Could An Ulcer be Oral Cancer? 

Ulcers that don’t go away may be concerning and could actually be a sign of oral cancer. Ulcers associated with oral cancer typically form under or on the tongue, so keep an eye out for those in particular and see your dentist in Asheboro quickly. Oral cancer can be treated successfully, especially in the early stages. 

Mouth Ulcer Symptoms

When someone has an ulcer in the mouth, they typically know it because they can feel it or see it. Ulcers are usually white, gray, or yellow in the middle and red on the outside. They can appear anywhere in the mouth including on the lips, gums, cheeks, roof of the mouth, and tongue. Pain and swelling are also common and can get worse when brushing your teeth or eating spicy, acidic, or salty foods. 

Are Mouth Ulcers Common? 

Yes! Mouth ulcers are incredibly common and will affect about 20% of people at least once in their lifetime. While there is no one main cause of developing an ulcer, certain people are more likely to suffer from them such as those who have: 

• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Diabetes
• Celiac
• Immune disorders
• HIV

Even though ulcers are typically nothing serious, they could indicate another problem in the mouth. If you’re concerned about a new ulcer or have one that won’t go away, schedule a visit to your dentist in Asheboro. 

From sniffles and coughs to sore throats and fevers, there are plenty of telltale signs that cold and flu season is among us. Unfortunately, December through February is typically prime time for a cold or the flu to affect your family, and we’re just now starting to enter that time frame. While it’s understandable that your sole focus is on feeling better, your dentist in Asheboro wants to encourage you to also help keep your teeth healthy and protected during any sickness. 

Don’t Neglect Teeth

We always recommend that all patients brush and floss their teeth every day, even when they aren’t feeling well. In fact, brushing your teeth may be even more important when you’re under the weather. Regular brushings will help keep harmful bacteria from settling in the mouth and causing problems such as decay. 

Salt Water Can Ease Discomfort

The tried-and-true method of gargling with warm salt water to help ease a sore throat or painful swallowing still stands today. Rinsing and spitting out salt water helps to essentially pull fluids, along with germs and viruses, out of the throat and into a cup, bucket, or sink. Saltwater can also kill bacteria, ease discomfort, and help you feel better. 

Look Out For Sugary Medications

Many medications including popular cough drops and syrups contain sugar, and sugar is bad for teeth. Your dentist in Asheboro understands that you will probably use any medicine that helps you feel better, but we do encourage you to find sugar-free options. If they aren’t available, make sure to swish or drink water after taking medicine. 

Drink Water

Every doctor and dentist will agree that we should drink plenty of water when we’re sick. Water helps keep the body and the mouth hydrated and can replace any fluids that are lost through vomiting, sweating, or simply not feeling well enough to eat or drink normally. Staying hydrated during an illness has many benefits such as helping to prevent bacteria from entering the body, decreasing a painfully dry nose, and combating an uncomfortable dry mouth. Dry mouth is a particular concern for your dentist in Asheboro as a dry mouth is the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive, increasing the risk of decay and other oral health problems. 

Get a New Toothbrush

Even though some research suggests that getting a new toothbrush after an illness isn’t necessary, we like to err on the side of caution. Toothbrushes should be replaced at least every three or four months, but we also recommend getting a new toothbrush after you start to feel better. In between using your old toothbrush and the new one, make sure to rinse your toothbrush thoroughly with hot water to help kill bacteria. 

During this cold and flu season, protect your family by disinfecting surfaces that are touched often, encouraging sneezing and coughing into the elbow, and washing hands often. While we hope you all stay healthy, if someone does get sick, try to isolate them and make sure to protect their oral health along with their overall health. 

Any type of tooth pain can be unbearable, just ask your dentist in Asheboro. We’re all too familiar with toothaches and will do everything we can to help alleviate the pain. However, sometimes tooth troubles aren’t the actual cause of tooth pain. In fact, sometimes a toothache may be a sign of sinus pressure or a sinus infection, and it’s important to know the difference. 

Where Are The Sinuses?

Before we can dive into whether or not a toothache is a result of a sinus problem or an actual issue with your teeth, we need to look at where the sinuses are located and how tooth pain can result from either a tooth problem or a sinus problem. The sinuses are located throughout the face, and any inflammation in them can affect the eyes, forehead, nose, cheeks, or teeth. 

Sinus Infections & Tooth Pain

Pain in the teeth is often a side effect of a sinus infection. But this pain is usually localized to the back molars and doesn’t spread to other teeth. Keep in mind that the jaw can also be affected during a sinus infection, but it can also be a sign of other problems, including a misaligned bite or other tooth troubles. Keep an eye out for the differences between tooth pain caused by a sinus infection versus tooth pain caused by a dental problem. Some signs of a sinus infection include: 

• Pressure in the nose, eyes, or forehead
• Bad breath
• Sore throat
• Post-nasal drip
• Thick mucus

Toothache Symptoms

There are some telltale signs of a toothache that results from a problem with the actual teeth as opposed to a sinus infection. Some of the symptoms of a toothache that requires treatment from your dentist in Asheboro sooner rather than later include:

• Sensitivity to hot and cold drinks and foods
• Pain that moves throughout the mouth
• Swollen or painful gums
• Throbbing or sharp pain
• Pain when chewing

When Should You See a Dentist for Tooth Pain?

Usually, any type of tooth pain should warrant a visit to your dentist in Asheboro sooner rather than later. And if you’re in doubt about what’s causing your pain, it’s best to schedule an appointment. Some key signs that you should call your dentist include: 

• Any mouth pain that lasts longer than two weeks
• Bleeding when brushing or flossing your teeth
• Zaps of pain when teeth are exposed to something hot or cold
• Bad breath that doesn’t go away

If you’re not sure if you have a sinus infection that’s causing tooth pain or an acutal problem with your teeth, it’s always wise to contact your dentist when any discomfort in your mouth is apparent. We’ll do everything we can to find the source of your pain and work with you to find the best solution. 

Xylitol is a natural sugar alternative that has been growing in popularity over the last couple of years. But is this sweet substitute for traditional sugar better for you? Can you still enjoy sweet snacks with xylitol without the guilt you may feel from eating too much sugar? Let’s check in with your dentist in Asheboro to see how, and if, xylitol is better for you than sugar. 

What is Xylitol?

We’ve already covered the fact that xylitol is a natural sugar substitute, but there’s even more to know about the stuff. Xylitol is found naturally in many fruits, vegetables, and even in our own bodies. Its sweet taste can mimic traditional sugar, but there are a few differences between xylitol and sugar. 

Xylitol is lower in calories than sugar (by about 40%!) which means the weight concerns that often go hand-in-hand with eating too much sugar are reduced by replacing it with xylitol. Additionally, xylitol doesn’t increase blood sugar levels the same way sugar does. This can make xylitol a better choice for your sweet fix without the negative side effects on your body and without the need to sacrifice taste.

But the benefits of xylitol don’t stop there. As your dentist in Asheboro knows, xylitol may also help improve and protect oral health. 

Xylitol & Oral Health? 

So the reality is that we all have bacteria in our mouths. Some of these bacteria are beneficial, but some are dangerous. One of the bad types of bacteria is called Streptococcus mutans, and these bacteria are the main causes of plaque buildup and cavity development. Streptococcus mutans really really love to eat sugar. This means the more sugar we have, the more we feed these bacteria. But there’s another problem. Streptococcus mutans won’t only feed on sugar, the sugar will also help them create more and more bacteria. But this doesn’t happen with xylitol. Streptococcus mutans will still feed on xylitol but instead of fueling bacteria, xylitol starves them and they die off. This can help: 

• Reduce the risk of tooth decay
• Decrease bacteria levels by up to 75%
• Prevent oral inflammation
• Lower the risk of gum disease

Swapping Sugar for Xylitol

Making the switch from sugar to xylitol may be easier than you think. In fact, one of the easiest swaps you can make is by choosing gum that contains xylitol. Chewing gum can increase saliva production, which washes away bacteria, and neutralizes acid to protect tooth enamel. Plus, the added benefit of xylitol can starve bacteria.

Another way you can make the switch is by looking for xylitol in your grocery store baking aisle. You can swap sugar for xylitol in many recipes so you can still enjoy a sweet snack without all of the risks of sugar. 

Keep in mind that swapping to xylitol instead of sugar isn’t enough to fully protect your teeth. You will also want to continue to brush and floss every day, as well as see your dentist in Asheboro regularly for professional dental cleanings and exams. 

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a colorless and odorless gas occasionally used for dental treatment. Now, while not everyone will be a candidate for nitrous oxide, this type of sedation dentistry has been known to help ease nervous or scared patients during procedures. If you have dental fear, you should talk with your dentist in Asheboro about nitrous oxide or other sedation dentistry options. 

Why is Nitrous Oxide Used? 

One situation when nitrous oxide may be used in dentistry is when a patient is scared of the dentist. Fear of the dentist is incredibly common in the United States, and about 36% of people in the United States have fear of getting dental treatment. But nitrous oxide can help a patient relax and stay calm throughout their visit. 

Nitrous oxide may also be used if a procedure will take a bit of time. Patients can become uncomfortable laying back in the dental chair with their mouths open for prolonged periods. This may cause them to become jittery, making it hard for your dentist in Asheboro to work. During these treatments such as a root canal or restorative dentistry, you may benefit from laughing gas or another form of sedation dentistry. 

What Are the Effects of Laughing Gas? 

Many dentists prefer nitrous oxide because the effects wear off quickly. In fact, your dentist will probably give you straight oxygen once treatment is done and you’ll be back to feeling like yourself in no time. Many patients can go right back to their day without downtime. However, it’s still wise to have someone drive you after your appointment. 

Patients may experience some side effects during or after using nitrous such as: 

• Shivering
• Dizziness
• Sweating
• Nausea

These symptoms should be temporary and short-lived. To help avoid nausea, only eat a small meal or snack before your appointment.

Is Nitrous Oxide Safe? 

Controlled and monitored use of nitrous oxide is considered safe by the American Dental Association. In fact, patients who use nitrous oxide at their dental appointments are still conscious and can answer questions from their dentist in Asheboro. 

How is Laughing Gas Administered? 

Perhaps one of the best things about laughing gas is that there are no needles involved in administering it. The gas is administered through a small nose mask that allows you to simply breathe in the nitrous oxide and oxygen mixture. 

If you’ve been putting off routine dental care because of fear, or if you know you have a strong gag reflex or the need for a longer appointment, talk with your dentist about nitrous oxide or other types of sedation dentistry. Dental care, even bi-annual cleanings, x-rays, and checkups, shouldn’t be delayed. After all, preventive dentistry is the best way to avoid more complex treatment because it allows your team to catch problems early when they’re easier to treat. 

Some patients will go to great lengths to get an ideal smile, and it’s something that your dentist in Asheboro is happy to help with. There are plenty of different treatments available to transform any smile safely and effectively. But unfortunately, there are also plenty of dangerous social media trends claiming to easily, quickly, and affordably change the look of your teeth. These trends should be avoided at all costs to avoid damaging your teeth, sometimes permanently. 

Filing Your Teeth

One of the most dangerous social media trends involves people filing down their own teeth into teeny tiny pegs with the hope of topping them off with beautiful veneers. This is known as the “veneers check” trend, and it’s incredibly dangerous, not to mention probably very uncomfortable. The truth is, if you go to your dentist in Asheboro for veneers, they will not file your teeth into sharp points. There is no need to remove that much healthy tooth enamel for dental veneer treatment. Additionally, filing your own teeth can cause irreversible damage and may require unwanted dental restorations such as dentures. 

Do-It-Yourself Orthodontics

Everyone wants that perfectly straight smile, and sometimes orthodontic treatment such as braces or clear aligners will be used to achieve it. But another concerning trend on social media shows users taking regular household items to tighten gaps, shift the positioning of teeth, and to even simply appear as if they have braces. You will not get the results you’re looking for by doing this. In fact, you may cause additional problems such as more overcrowding, jaw pain, and perhaps even tooth loss. 

Creating Teeth Using Art Supplies

A dental crown is a custom-created solution to cap a tooth that has had a root canal or to top off a dental implant. It’s often made of high-quality porcelain so it’s impossible to tell a crown from your natural teeth. However, social media has shown thousands of people using arts and crafts supplies to create their own crowns, partial dentures, or to fill in chips or cracks. Nothing should be used in your mouth unless it’s safe, approved by your dentist, and placed by your dentist. 

At-Home Whitening

There are hundreds of at-home whitening products available over the counter. While these can be relatively inexpensive and typically safe, you should consult your dentist prior to using them. What’s even more important to note is that you should completely avoid any tooth-whitening trend that requires the mixing of ingredients found in your home. These concoctions are often very acidic and can quickly damage your teeth. 

The desire to achieve your version of the ideal smile can be achieved by talking with your dentist in Asheboro. Contact us today to schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation and let’s find the best way to give you the best smile, safely. 

We always stress the importance of seeing your dentist in Asheboro at least twice a year to protect your teeth from decay, disease, and other tooth troubles. But what happens if you no longer have any natural teeth and wear a denture instead? Should you still visit your dentist regularly? Absolutely! The truth is, your dentist’s job goes beyond treating natural teeth.

Why Are Dental Appointments Important? 

Dental appointments every six months are important for many reasons such as catching tooth decay early. But denture-wears without the worry of decay can still benefit from these visits for a number of reasons. 

• Adjustments

Dentures may feel great when they’re new, but over time, they can loosen or the shape of the mouth can change and make dentures feel uncomfortable. Ill-fitting dentures can rub and cause sores or injuries to the gums. They need to be adjusted every so often to ensure they fit properly and are comfortable. Dentures that slip around or click should be a sign that it’s time to see your dentist in Asheboro. 

• Longer Lifespan

A high-quality denture that’s properly cared for should last between 7 to 10 years. However, dentures still need checkups to help prolong their lifespan. Unfortunately, dentures aren’t indestructible and can sustain wear and tear. At your dental appointments, your dentist will examine your denture and check for any damage that can be fixed quickly and easily. 

• Oral Health

Oral health includes more than just teeth, so even if you no longer have any natural teeth, it’s still important to see your dentist in Asheboro regularly. Denture-wearers can be at greater risk of gum disease than those with their natural teeth since dentures can harbor plaque, food particles, and bacteria which can sit on the gums all day and cause an infection. Gum disease can be treated successfully if caught early. But if left alone, gum disease can lead to other problems throughout the body such as heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers. 

• Partial Dentures

Even if you still have some of your natural teeth but use a partial denture to replace only a couple of teeth, you can absolutely benefit from seeing the dentist twice a year. You see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings of your natural teeth as well as for checkups on your partial. Like full dentures, partial dentures can increase the risk of gum disease and decay in natural teeth. 

Both people with a full set of natural teeth and those who wear a denture as a replacement for natural teeth should see their dentist every six months. After all, prevention is the best way to keep serious problems from suddenly popping up. 

Do you hide your smile in pictures? Cover your mouth when you laugh? Avoid showing your teeth whenever or however you can? You’re not alone. More than 50% of Americans are insecure about their smile. But it doesn’t have to stay that way. Getting a smile that you love is possible with cosmetic dentistry from your dentist in Asheboro

• Dental Bonding

One of the fastest, and most popular, ways to improve your smile is through dental bonding. Cosmetic bonding can be done in as little as 30 to 60 minutes and can cover up small chips or cracks that may be keeping you from smiling. Your dentist in Asheboro will use a resin to reshape the size, shape, and even color of a tooth to create a natural and full smile.  

• Whitening

Another quick and affordable way to transform a smile is through teeth whitening. This treatment can brighten the shade of teeth from anywhere from two to nine shades whiter. But not all teeth bleaching products are the same. While you can buy whitening strips or trays on your own, we always recommend that you talk with your dentist before you decide. Not all stains can be removed through whitening treatments, so it’s important to share your concerns with your dentist before you invest in any product.

• Porcelain Veneers

Teeth that can’t be whitened through bleaching may benefit from porcelain veneers. This treatment does require your dentist to remove a small layer of your natural tooth, but the procedure is usually pain-free. Porcelain veneers are thin slices of porcelain that are custom-designed to blend into your natural teeth so nobody needs to know you’ve had the treatment. Not only can veneers cover up stains, but they can also cover chips and misaligned teeth. 

• Dental Crowns

Often referred to as caps, dental crowns toe the line between cosmetic dentistry and restorative dentistry, depending on what they’re used for. In the case of cosmetic purposes, crowns can change the appearance of individual teeth, including size or shape. Crowns are also custom-made so they’re unnoticeable in the smile. 

• Dental Implants

Another form of cosmetic dentistry that may be offered by your dentist in Asheboro and that can also be referred to as restorative dentistry is a dental implant. Dental implants are used as a permanent solution to missing teeth and will replace both the tooth’s root and the visual crown. This type of treatment is the most invasive of the options listed, but those who have the treatment say the process was worth it as it restored their smile. Whether you’ve lost a tooth due to decay or an accident, dental implants can help complete your smile. 

Nobody should live with a smile that they feel like they have to hide. If you find yourself shying away from smiling, we want to help. Call your dentist in Asheboro today to schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation.