ASK A DENTIST

I have receding gums. Is there anything I can do to prevent it from worsening? I brush and floss daily. Does using whitening strips have a negative effect on the gums?

Receding gums may be caused by gum disease and or trauma. Use a soft bristled toothbrush to brush with. Hard brushes can encourage gums to recede. Whitening strips can definitely increase sensitivity and prevent you from brushing adequately, which may lead to further gum disease and recession.

What is the easiest way to reduce gaps in the teeth?

The two common ways to close gaps in the teeth are:

Braces: They close gaps naturally. Today, there are a number of options for kids and adults, including removable and invisible braces. A qualified orthodontist is the best person to help you when it comes to braces.

Cosmetic procedures: Gaps can also be closed using veneers or resin materials. A cosmetic dentist is the best person to help you decide which treatment works for the results you want.

Is there a connection between heart health and oral health?

While not definitive, several studies do suggest a link between the two. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, people with periodontal disease, which involves the gums and underlying bone, are almost twice as likely to also suffer from cardiovascular disease as those who don’t. Some experts argue that a direct connection between the two diseases has yet to be found, although it’s thought that inflammation triggered by periodontal disease may contribute to both maladies. One Columbia University study also reported a possible link between oral bacteria and a higher risk of stroke: One group of people with higher levels of certain disease-causing bacteria in the mouth was also more likely to have clogged arteries in the neck, which in turn can lead to stroke. This apparent relationship between unhealthy gums and heart disease makes regular dental care more important than ever. Seeing the dentist is not just a matter of oral health – it’s a matter of general health.

Is sugar the prime cause of cavities?

Strictly speaking, sugar itself doesn’t cause cavities. It’s the interaction between plaque – a bacteria that develops in the mouth, which “gobbles up” sugar for nourishment – and the chemical balance in the mouth known as the pH, or acidity level. The longer sugar remains on teeth, the more the balance goes haywire (as the acid levels rise) and the more prone you are to developing cavities.

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