When it comes to your dental, there are a number of different things you want to be remembered for. Such as a stunning smile and contagious laugh. But, no one wants to be known as the person that always has bad breath. If you suffer from constant bad breath, don’t let it go and continue to hold a nickname regarding your breath. Don’t worry! Once we can establish the cause of the bad breath, we at Beautiful Smiles can fix it.

If you feel like you are all alone, you aren’t! An interesting fact about bad breath is that over 80 million people suffer from chronic bad breath, also known as Halitosis. You can do everything right, like brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash but still struggle with bad breath. It can be a constant struggle to live with bad breath and figure out what exactly is causing it. That’s where Beautiful Smiles comes in to help. Once we have found the problem, a cure will follow.

Why Poor Dental Hygiene Causes Bad Breath

Your dental hygiene should be one of the most important parts of your daily routine. If you decide to neglect your dental hygiene, bad breath is surely going to happen. Though gum and mints provide short-term answers to bad breath, they will not give the permanent results that you are looking for. You can not get rid of stinky breath until you understand the cause of chronic bad breath.

85% of bad breath causes come from inside the mouth, and poor dental hygiene is the leading cause of bad breath. Skipping brushing your teeth, and flossing each day leaves behind small pieces of bacteria whose number one purpose is to feed off of any food particles that are left behind—these tiny bacteria create a filthy-smelling waster following meals. If you leave these bacteria on your teeth and skip your dental routine, the results are not going to be attractive.

If you wear dentures and think you are safe from bad-smelling breath, you are wrong. Similar to natural teeth, bacteria and food particles cling to the dentures. Not removing your dentures and constantly cleaning them allows for the bacteria to grow and emit a foul-smelling odor.

Other Common Causes of Halitosis (Chronic Bad Breath)

Alongside poor dental hygiene, there are a variety of different causes of bad breath. Here are 5 more common causes of bad breath:

Cavity and Infection

In many cases, bad breath can be caused by a cavity or other infection in the mouth. When left untreated, the bacteria present in tooth decay, infection, and cavities emit a foul smell. Infections that haven’t healed yet also cause bad breath. So, constant dental checkups are essential when it comes to keeping your teeth healthy and your breath clean.

Low-Carb Intake

Have you changed your diet recently? Tried the new keto diet trend? Well, it could be a reason for your bad breath. When drastically reducing the number of carbs that you eat, your body starts to break down fats instead of carbohydrates to give it energy. Fatty acids that are present when your body breaks down fat can turn into action and cause bad breath.

High-Protein Diets

Just like too little carbs, too much protein can cause chronic bad breath. If you consume too much protein, your body won’t be able to break it down efficiently. When this happens, amino acids are produced, and when combined with the bacteria that is lying within your mouth, bad breath is caused.

*Remember to keep your diet balanced with a healthy level of carbs, protein, greens, and dairy!

Dehydration and Dry Mouth

Not drinking an efficient amount of liquids and dry mouth are also two leading causes of bad breath. When dehydrated, the production of saliva slows down. When this happens, you are losing your main line of defense against chronic bad breath.

Saliva not only assists in washing away any food particles left behind after eating, but it contains essential proteins and minerals that limit the growth of bacteria. Like always, the fewer bacteria left behind, the less of a chance that you will suffer from bad breath.

Less Common Causes of Bad Breath

The majority of causes of bad breath were mentioned above. Unfortunately, they are not the only reasons. Some cases of chronic bad breath are more hidden. Here is a small list of other culprits of bad breath:

Acid reflux
Sinus infection
Mouth cancer
Throat cancer
Diabetes
Bowel disorders
Problems with the digestive system
Liver disease
Infection of the lungs

IF you have tried everything to get rid of your bad breath but it is persistent, it is essential that you come into Beautiful Smile Dental Center today. We will do an extensive examination of your teeth and mouth and discover the reason you are experiencing chronic bad breath.

Common Cures for Halitosis

It’s essential to remember that you are not alone in the battle against bad breath. It is embarrassing and can diminish your reputation among your friends and co-workers. Don’t let chronic bad breath affect your personal and professional life. Find the answer with Beautiful Smiles Dental Center.

Dental hygiene cures

Brush your teeth at least 2 times a day, once before starting your day and once before going to sleep.
Floss each day before going to sleep to get all of the food particles stuck between the teeth.
Rinse with a dentist-approved mouthwash
Remove dentures and other dental devices each night and clean them thoroughly.
Visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

Lifestyle cures for bad breath

Keep hydrated
Eat balanced meals rich in fruits and vegetables
If you have a dry mouth, chew sugar-free gum
Avoid smoking and drinking in excess

These are the easiest ways to cure bad breath, however if you have been trying and trying to get rid of chronic bad breath, there is only one option! Contacting Beautiful Smiles Dental Center and having your teeth and mouth checked. Your dentist and our dental team will be able to handle any and all questions or concerns regarding your oral health. Fight back against chronic bad breath with Beautiful Smiles Dental Center and get the answers you need today!

Throughout our lifetime, we all experience dental plaque to some degree. Depending on how it is managed that makes the real difference in how it affects your oral health. As your most trusted dentist serving Gurnee and Park City, IL, we know all about dental plaque. Read on, as we share some information on what dental plaque is and how it affects your teeth, and how to get rid of it.

What Is Dental Plaque & How Do I Get Rid Of It?

Have you ever noticed a slimy, light yellowish film that is coating your teeth? Well, it’s plaque. The scientific term for plaque is biofilm, and it is a group of living microbes that are held together by a sticky layer of a chemical compound. This adhesive layer helps the microbes attach to your teeth which allows them to flourish into microcolonies, causing horrible havoc in your mouth.

What Is Dental Plaque & Tartar? – (Dental Plaque Causes, Prevention, & Removal Treatments)

When you think about your mouth, think of it as though it is an ecosystem. When we consume foods and beverages or even breathe, a variety of bacteria and organisms are able to enter our mouths. Though it is normal for these bacteria to enter, the balance can be thrown off when high levels of bacteria make their way inside. When this happens, the unfortunate result is intense dental plaque. Foods that are extremely high in starches and sugars contribute to the overdevelopment of bacteria that enters the mouth, encouraging plaque to develop. Plaque is commonly located between the teeth and under the gum line, which is the easiest place within the mouth for these colonies of bacteria to collect.

How Does Dental Plaque Put Your Oral Health at Jeopardy?

Dental Plaque is one of the leading causes of oral health problems. The bacteria that dental plaque is made up of produce acids when we eat. Dental plaque develops when we consume foods containing carbohydrates (sugars & starches). Bacteria that live in the mouth thrive on these foods, producing acids as a result. Over a period of time, these acids destroy tooth enamel, resulting in tooth decay. Plaque can also develop on the tooth roots under the gum and cause breakdown of the bone supporting the tooth. Plaque buildup can also lead to gum disease, first gingivitis, the tender and swollen gums that sometimes bleed. Gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, allowing the bacteria to destroy the underlying bone supporting the teeth. As a result severe periodontal gum disease can develop. These acids attack the teeth by breaking down the enamel, which will lead to negative dental dental conditions, such as:

Dental Cavities
Gum Disease
Gingivitis

Not only does dental plaque affect the inside of your mouth, it can also change the way others see you. An ugly yellow film will cover your teeth accompanied by bad breath. The worst effect plaque has on your teeth is when it turns into tartar. Once tartar forms, this hard substance will firmly adhere to your teeth. This yellowish-brown cannot be removed on your own and needs the professional care of a dentist to get it off. If you leave tartar on your teeth, over a period of time it will result in serious gum disease.

5 Facts You Need To Know About Dental Plaque & Tartar

#1: Plaque is filled with bacteria.

#2: Everyone has plaque, even if you can’t see it.

#3: Plaque feeds off of your sugar intake.

#4: If not removed, plaque becomes tartar.

#5: You can easily prevent plaque from building up by brushing, flossing, and rinsing.

Succeed in Preventing Dental Plaque & Gum Disease, Before the Worst Happens

Dental Plaque & Tartar Buildup may be unavoidable, the most essential oral health decision you can make is to keep a good dental health routine every day & to make regular visits to your local Gurnee Periodontal Dental experts. Overcome & Treat Periodontal Disease with the most extensive Periodontal Dental Care Plans in Gurnee (Park City, IL). Achieve the Smile you’ve always wanted with Dr. Galvez, by visiting Beautiful Smiles Dental Center to achieve optimal oral health & visual appeal today.

Never Forget to Brush Your Teeth

Brushing your teeth twice a day is one of the most important habits that you can possess. It will protect your gums and teeth from the damaging bacteria that is in dental plaque. This is extremely important after consuming foods that have a lot of sugar. Unfortunately, a quick brush every evening isn’t enough. You need to practice proper brushing techniques and brush for at least 2 minutes in the morning and another 2 minutes in the evening. Electric toothbrushes are recommended to help get the technique right and battle against battling plaque. Ask your dentist at Beautiful Smiles Dental Center for the best toothbrush in Chicago and the surrounding area.

Add Dental Flossing to Your Oral Health Plan

It is not uncommon for people to forget to floss or think that it is not an important part of their oral hygiene plan. This is a horrible misconception. Brushing cleans the surface of your teeth, but it can’t quite get to those hard-to-reach places. Flossing is able to get the job done by removing plaque that is stuck under the gum line and in between the teeth.

Use A Dentist Approved Mouth Rinse to Reduce Dental Plaque & Gingivitis

As an added bonus to your oral health regime, it is beneficial to use a mouth rinse. This is proven to help you tackle plaque and the issues that come with it. Research has shown that mouth rinse reduces plaque and gingivitis. Chlorhexidine, used in many types of mouthwash, is the best antiplaque and anti-gingivitis agent. Before you purchase your mouthwash, make sure to check with your dentist about the best mouth rinse to buy. They will be able to tell you which mouthwash is most beneficial for your teeth.

Lower & Neutralize Dental Plaque Causing Acid Intake by Eating a Daily Balanced Diet

A diet that promotes good oral health is not just about the foods you eat or avoid — when and how you eat them is equally important. Foods that take a long time to chew or that you hold in your mouth may damage teeth as they retain sugar in the mouth longer than do other foods. Eat a balanced diet and limit the number of between-meal snacks. Instead of snacking on sugary, carbohydrate-rich or acidic foods throughout the day, eat these foods just during meal times in order to minimize the amount of time teeth are exposed to acid. In addition, the body produces more saliva to help digest larger meals, which washes away more food and helps neutralize harmful acids before they can attack teeth. If you need a snack, choose nutritious foods such as plain yogurt, cheese, fruit, or raw vegetables. Vegetables, such as celery, help remove food and help saliva neutralize plaque-causing acids.

Additional Plaque Formation Prevention Tips:

See your local Gurnee IL Dentist & Oral Hygienist, on a regular basis for a dental checkup, exam, and teeth cleaning.
Ask your dentist if a dental sealant is appropriate for you. Dental sealants are a thin, plastic coating that are painted on the chewing surfaces of teeth to protect them from cavities and decay.

Top Rated Dental Clinic in Gurnee to Conquer Dental Plaque

Usually, the ongoing battle against plaque is simply done through your daily dental hygiene routine. But, in cases of intense and irreversible plaque build-up that turns into tartar, you will need to visit your dentist at Beautiful Smiles Dental Center to have it removed. It is critical to visit your dentist on a regular basis for check-ups and cleanings. Even if you stick to a good dental health routine at home, there are still areas within your mouth that cannot be reached. That is why a dentist is needed to ensure that each part of your gums and teeth are healthy and happy.

Stay in Control of Dental Plaque & Tartar Build Up with Beautiful Smiles Dental Center

Do you want your teeth and gums to last a lifetime without any complications? Then it is important to fight plaque build-up. Whether it is at home or in the dental office, getting rid of plaque will result in a cleaner mouth that is less prone to gum disease and tooth decay. Think back to when the last time you had your teeth and gums checked. Beautiful Smiles Dental Center provides the most trusted & experienced dental plaque removal services in Gurnee (Park City, IL). We will help you achieve your best smile & optimal oral health, book an appointment today.

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Dental Hygiene Awareness Month Deserves a Place on Your Calendar!

It’s time to replace that old toothbrush and restock your mouthwash because October is Dental Hygiene Awareness Month! This October is the perfect time to re-evaluate your dental hygiene regimen and give your teeth and gums a little extra attention. Dental Hygiene Month is for everyone – young and old – to celebrate the importance of a healthy smile and the role that dental hygienists play in keeping your teeth clean. How can you get involved in Dental Hygiene Awareness Month and why is it so important to spread awareness about great oral hygiene? Let’s find out…

What Do I Need to Know About Dental Hygiene Awareness Month?

National Dental Hygiene Month has been around since 2009, but don’t worry if you’re only just hearing about it, there’s never a bad time to improve your dental hygiene regimen!

The awareness month is the result of a partnership between the Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company and the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA). The idea behind the month is to celebrate dental hygienists and raise awareness about oral hygiene, and in particular, the four daily habits to keep your teeth and gums healthy: brushing, flossing, rinsing, and chewing.

The campaign is both a reminder to look after your smile and a chance to learn more about the correct techniques for keeping your teeth clean, your gums healthy, and your breath fresh. Adults and children alike can get involved in Dental Hygiene Month and learn more about the importance of oral health.

The Best Oral Hygiene Habits for a Lifetime of Optimal Oral Health

The four components of excellent oral health form a foundation from which an entire lifetime of healthy teeth can develop. Preventive treatment can greatly reduce your risk of developing all-too-common dental problems, like cavities and gum disease, and help to keep your smile looking picture-perfect.

It couldn’t be any easier to introduce great oral hygiene practices into your daily routine. Here are the four daily habits that Oral Hygiene Awareness Month is all about:

Brushing

Brushing your teeth is one of the most important things for great oral health: it gets rid of plaque and reduces the risk of developing cavities and gum disease. You should be brushing your teeth twice a day, once after you’ve finished your breakfast and once before you go to bed. Each brushing session should last for two minutes and it’s important to use a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.

Learning the correct brushing technique is something you only need to do once to ensure that your teeth receive the most benefit from brushing.

Here are the five steps for effective brushing:

Position your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle towards the gums

Move the toothbrush in short strokes gently back and forth

Brush the outer and chewing surfaces of your teeth

Adjust your toothbrush to a vertical position and brush the inner surfaces with small strokes up and down

Finish by brushing your tongue to get rid of bacteria

Teeth Flossing

You should floss your teeth once a day, ideally before you go to bed. Flossing is crucial for cleaning parts of your mouth that your toothbrush can’t reach. When you floss, you remove plaque and small particles of food that get stuck between your teeth, which helps to lower the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. If you don’t remove plaque, over time it’ll harden and become tartar.

Mouth Rinsing

For good dental hygiene, mouthwash shouldn’t be used as an alternative to brushing or as an optional extra: you should use good mouthwash to rinse your mouth regularly after you brush and floss your teeth. Brushing and flossing target your teeth, while mouthwash gets rid of bacteria from other areas of your mouth. The mouthwash will help to prevent gum disease and keep your breath fresh.

Dental Hygiene Awareness Month is a celebration of the incredible work of dental hygienists and an essential reminder to keep up with the big four daily habits for good oral health. The month of October raises awareness about dental hygiene and regular checkups, not only as a reminder for you, but to promote dental hygiene for children – the earlier children learn how to care for their teeth, the better! Marking the month down on your calendar will help to bring oral hygiene to the forefront of your mind once a year and remind you of the importance of looking after your teeth and gums. It’s easy to forget about the importance of keeping your teeth and gums clean amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life. However, the last thing you want is for your dental hygiene regimen to start slipping and open the door for cavities to start creeping in.

For more information regarding Dental Hygiene & Oral Health Care – Contact Beautiful Smiles Dental Center in Gurnee (Park City, IL)

Visiting your dentist regularly is crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Your local dentist in Gurnee (Park City, IL) will check your mouth for signs of problems and give you advice about great dental hygiene techniques to implement at home. You’ll also be able to book professional dental cleaning, which will eliminate the plaque and tartar on your teeth and help to keep your beautiful smile in optimal condition. As well as, paying close attention to your cleaning regimen, this October is also a fantastic time to book an appointment for a dental checkup at Beautiful Smiles Dental Center; after-all, the month of October is all about celebrating dental hygiene and the work of dental hygienists! Contact Beautiful Smiles Dental Center in Gurnee, IL for more information regarding dental hygiene & oral health care.

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Tooth extractions are sometimes a necessary dental procedure to preserve a patient’s smile. However, they are often one of the biggest of patient anxiety, no matter how young or old they are. Little do patients know that it is one of the most common reasons to visit a dentist’s office. There are many reasons to get a tooth extraction in Gurnee, IL.
If you are experiencing pain in your mouth and think that you may need a tooth extraction, you shouldn’t wait to MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT HERE with your Gurnee, IL family dental clinic. Keep reading to take a look at some of the top reasons for a tooth extraction!

1. Avoid Severe Bone Loss

One of the many reasons for bone loss is periodontal disease. It causes the teeth to become misaligned, and not only is it uncomfortable, but it makes it extremely difficult to chew and swallow. Without immediate intention, your teeth will continue to shift and cause harm to your jawbone. The best course of action to stop your teeth from moving and causing more damage may be a tooth extraction.

2. Tooth Decay

The moment a tooth starts to decay, your mouth will become vulnerable to infections and bacteria. You will run the risk of a pocket of pus forming when any blood vessel or nerve becomes infected. This will cause a variety of symptoms, including:

Facial swelling
Pain that radiates throughout your jawbone, ear, or neck
Difficulties breathing and swallowing
Sensitivity and pain when in contact with hot or cold temperatures

The pain of an infected tooth ranges between mild and persistent pain. However, if the condition is not treated right away, it will only continue to get worse before the tooth is removed. Additionally, severe infections have the potential to spread to other parts of your body.

3. Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth come in later in a patient’s life, and they can lead to some of the worst pain they feel regarding their teeth. If wisdom teeth start to show and become trapped within your gums or jaw, the result is extreme discomfort. The longer you wait to extract an impacted wisdom tooth from your mouth, the more likely you are to have:

Tooth misalignment
Damage to the jawbone
Chronic pain
Infections

While you may need to take a few days off to recover from a wisdom tooth extraction, the investment in your oral and body health is much more important. Are your wisdom teeth starting to show? Are you experiencing intense pain when food touches the affected area? Then contact a family dental clinic in Gurnee, IL, for a tooth extraction like Beautiful Smiles Dental Center!

4. Damaged or Cracked Teeth

Many patients, especially those who play contact sports, know all too well the dangers of a busted tooth. But, athletes are not the only ones that can be affected. Things as simple as biting down too hard on certain foods, serious falls, and car accidents can also damage the teeth. Similar to tooth decay, a broken or cracked tooth can lead to infection and even puncture the lips, gums, and inside of your mouth. When restoration efforts prove to not work, extracting the damaged tooth is the best option.
Now that we know some of the top reasons to get a tooth extraction, what are some ways you can completely avoid them?

Keep Up with Your Regular Teeth Cleaning Routine

You have probably heard it time and time again, regular brushing and flossing are crucial. There is a reason you hear it so often! Ensuring that you keep up with your routine will lead to a cleaner and whiter smile with fewer trips to the dental office. Brushing at least twice a day and flossing in the evening will help you sidestep some of the leading causes of tooth decay that result in extraction.

Change Bad Habits

Some of the leading causes of tooth decay and infections include smoking in excess, consuming beverages and foods full of sugar, and drinking in excess, among other things. Ensuring that you eat and drink healthy while cutting out damaging products to your teeth will help you live a life free from dental pain.

Wear Protective Gear

Athletes that play contact sports need to pay close attention to wearing protective gear during training, practices, and matches. One bad hit or fall can lead to unbearable pain and potentially the loss of a tooth.
Mouthguards properly fitted to the unique structure of your teeth by a dentist are the best course of action to take. Additionally, not just athletes can benefit from different forms of mouth protection. Teeth grinders, in particular, will benefit from a properly fitted mouthguard while sleeping.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Even if you do everything right to protect your teeth, problems do unfortunately arise. However, regular dental check-ups do wonders in detecting future problems. Your dentist will complete a thorough examination of your teeth and determine the things you need to do to help your smile stay clean and healthy while avoiding serious discomfort!

Beautiful Smiles Dental Center for Tooth Extraction in Gurnee, IL

The moment you start to suspect that you may need a tooth extraction, contact Beautiful Smiles Dental Center immediately. The longer you wait, the more severe your pain will be. Not to mention the possible harm you could cause to the rest of your body. This trusted dental clinic treats patients of all ages with personal and unbeatable care, ensuring any problems that arise are dealt with quickly and pain-free.
Tooth extractions are nothing to be scared of. They are safe, and you will be able to enjoy your days and nights to the fullest without any discomfort. So, MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT HERE with Beautiful Smiles Dental Center and get the care that you need right away!

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Eating disorders strongly affect your teeth, gums, and entire mouth. While many think that eating disorders just affect overall physical well-being, they are also very serious mental illnesses. They involve constant thoughts about food and weight, often creating a sense of obsession. This obsession can lead to restricted diets, causing serious dental problems, mood swings, and even sleeping patterns. In this blog, we will look at the different eating disorders and how they can negatively affect your oral health.

What is An Eating Disorder?

Eating disorders are conditions distinguished by an unhealthy relationship with food. This can include:

An obsession with dieting
Only eating certain foods and nothing else
Avoiding food altogether
Binge-eating without control

Early signs of eating disorders include frequent comments about weight and food made by someone who is overall healthy from the outside and overeating without the ability to stop.

Signs and Symptoms of an Eating Disorder Out of Control

Some may be able to see the physical effects of someone suffering from an eating disorder due to someone that looks like they have either been eating too much or too little. However, in some cases, the effects aren’t always immediately visible. A dental specialist may be able to notice extreme changes to the mouth from an eating disorder that includes

Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth decay
Receding gums
Increased plaque buildup
Broken teeth
Loose fillings

According to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders, over 30 million Americans are struggling with eating disorders. The spectrum of this illness ranges from extreme dieting and anorexia nervosa, which is defined as drastically restricting the amount of food being consumed, to bulimia nervosa, which involves long periods of overeating followed by

The Ways Eating Disorders Can Affect Your Mouth

Many of those who are suffering from eating disorders go long periods without flossing or brushing their teeth. Unfortunately, just like anyone who decides to ignore their dental routine, it will cause plaque to build up. Additionally, conditions like severe malnutrition can eventually lead to tooth loss.
In other cases, some people with serious eating disorders decide to constantly chew on ice blocks to replace the eating sensation. This damaging practice wears down tooth enamel which opens up the teeth and gums to infection, decay, and eventually tooth loss. A dentist may be capable of detecting an eating disorder by looking at a patient’s oral health. Poor dental hygiene is also an indication a patient has an eating disorder.

Short- and Long-Term Effects of Bulimia

Bulimia, as we mentioned above, is a condition where patients consume large amounts of calorie-dense foods and then get rid of them by vomiting. This particular conduct seriously affects the teeth by:

Staining – Discoloration is a typical concern for patients who are bulimic.
Weak teeth – Due to not consuming the proper nutrients, the teeth become weak, and eventually, biting into hard food can lead to cracks and complete breaks.
Irritating soft gum tissue – The gums of those with bulimia tend to bleed more easily while they pull packs from the teeth. This then leads to the roots of teeth being exposed, creating unbearable sensitivity.
Enamel erosion – When constantly throwing up food, the teeth are exposed to acidic stomach contents, which quickly erode the teeth’s enamel. After regular exposure to these acids, not only do the stomach acids break down the enamel but common mouth bacteria more easily damage them.

Anorexia and its Affect on Teeth

Anorexia is one of the most common eating disorders negatively impacting Americans. In addition to your body’s well-being, your teeth are seriously at risk. Patients who suffer from Anorexia limit their food intake considerably. This is extremely dangerous because it limits the number of nutrients being consumed. This weakens the jaw bone while weakening the teeth and leading to tooth loss.

Dental Issues Associated with Binge-Eating

Binge Eating Disorder, or BED, affects millions of Americans. The main sign of binge eating usually includes the constant urge to continue eating even when you’re full. Those affected by this disorder often consume foods and drinks high in starch, carbohydrates, salt, sugar, and calories. As many patients know, consuming these types of foods has serious negative implications on the teeth, including:

Cavities
Tooth decay
Plaque buildup
Infections
Among others

Dental Advise for Those with Eating Disorders

Getting help from trained professionals is always the first step to beating your eating disorder. However, the road to recovery is difficult and long. During these difficult times, you need to take steps to protect your teeth. Here are a few things patients with eating disorders can do:

Avoid brushing after vomiting – While many brush their teeth to hide the fact that they vomited, it can further damage the teeth. This is due to the fact that the tooth’s enamel is softer after exposure to stomach acid, and brushing will only worsen the loss of enamel. Wait several minutes before brushing.
Rinse out the mouth with water – H2O will dilate the acidity left behind after throwing up.
Follow your dentist’s recommendations – If your dentist notices that you have an eating disorder, they may prescribe you a fluoride mouthwash to help strengthen the enamel against decay.

Dental Recovery Following an Eating Disorder

Depending on the severity of your eating disorder and its impacts on your teeth, you may need a full “smile repair.” While some dental issues, unfortunately, cannot be reversed, it doesn’t mean you have to live with staining, weakness, increased sensitivity, and tooth loss. Various treatment plans may include:

Crowns
Dental implants
Veneers
Dentures
Bridges

If you have been the victim of an eating disorder or are currently struggling with one that affects your smile, get in touch with the specialists. Beautiful Smiles Dental Center will be able to help prevent serious harm to your smile while providing you with treatment plans to restore any damages.

Oral Cancer Screenings

Cancer is one of the world’s deadliest diseases: per year in the United States, 439.2 people in every 100,000 are diagnosed with a form of cancer, and each year 163.5 people per 100,000 die from the disease. More than 50,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer alone every single year.

Oral cancer includes cancers of the cheeks, tongue, lips, palate, throat, sinuses, gums, and floor of the mouth. Like other types of cancer, oral cancer can be deadly if it isn’t diagnosed quickly. For a quick diagnosis, oral cancer screenings are of paramount importance.

We’ve going to take a closer look at oral cancer and cancer screenings, to show you the importance of staying one step ahead of oral cancer and getting screened for the potentially deadly disease on a regular basis.

Identify Mouth Cancer Early

Oral cancer screenings are a very simple process where a dentist checks the mouth for any signs that cancer or precancerous signs are present. This exam can also be performed by a doctor.

The main goal and greatest benefit of oral cancer screenings is to identify oral cancer as early as possible. The sooner that cancer is diagnosed, the greater the chances are that it can be cured.

When a dentist identifies the presence of cancer or signs of precancerous lesions, monitoring and treatment can begin immediately. The dentist may request that the patient returns for a second appointment shortly after the screening to check for developments and arrange a biopsy to test for cancer.

Early identification of cancer opens the door to a much greater variety of treatment options, which is much better in every regard for the patient. When oral cancer is diagnosed early, the survival rate is extremely high.

Screenings Starting at High School Age

Oral cancer is most common in people over the age of 55, with the average age of oral cancer diagnosis being 62. Two-thirds of all oral cancer cases are in patients over 55, of which the vast majority are men – the disease is twice as prevalent in males as it is in females.

While oral cancer isn’t common in younger people, it’s still possible to contract oral cancer at a very young age. Around 1 in 8 cases of oral cancer affect people under the age of 50, which is still a large number.

Due to the potential of getting oral cancer early in life, it’s important to attend screenings as soon as they’re available. For high school students, college students and beyond, oral cancer screenings are available and should be attended!

Oropharyngeal Cancer / Throat Cancer

For people who smoke tobacco or have a history of smoking, it’s even more important to attend an oral cancer screening at a local dental clinic. Smoking is one of the factors that can increase the risk of developing oropharyngeal cancer, or throat cancer.

Oropharyngeal cancer develops behind the mouth in the center of the throat (pharynx), where cancer cells will begin to grow in the throat tissue. Signs that a person has oropharyngeal cancer include ear pain, weight loss, soreness, difficulty swallowing and coughing blood.

Cancer screenings are incredibly important for identifying this type of cancer so it can be diagnosed and treated without delay.

Increase in Oral Cancer Cases

Now more than ever before it’s important to visit your local dentist for an oral cancer screening. It’s estimated that 53,000 individuals will be diagnosed with oropharyngeal or oral cancer in the US in 2019, and there will be a total of 10,860 deaths from oral cancer in the same year.

The number of oropharyngeal cancer cases that are connected to HPV infections are rising in the US. There are also increases in the rates of mouth cancer cases elsewhere in the world. In the UK, rates of mouth cancer per 100,000 people rose by 32% for men and 33% for women between 2002 and 2012.

How Often Should You Have an Oral Cancer Screening?

Compared to some other types of cancer, oral cancers have a particularly high death rate. The death rate is thought to be so high because oral cancer is often discovered at a late stage. This is something that regular oral cancer screenings can help to combat.

For oral cancer diagnosed early on, there’s an 84% survival rate over 5 years, compared to an average 5-year survival rate of 65%: these statistics highlight how important it is to visit a dentist regularly for checks.

The recommended regularity of oral cancer screenings is every 3 years, although this increases to every year for people aged 40+. Different dentists may make different recommendations, all depending on the patient. If a person notices any signs of oral cancer during a self exam – which should be conducted around once every month – then they should contact their dentist without delay.

Oral Cancer Screening Process & What to Expect

Oral cancer screenings are a fairly quick and painless procedure that a dentist can perform during a standard dental checkup. The process involves the dentist checking for signs of unusually colored sores and patches, lumps, spots and abnormalities inside the mouth.

The dentist will also check a person’s lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, chin, jaw and the roof and back of their throat. The main goal is to find anything abnormal. Overall, the process should take no more than around 5 minutes.

To help with the examination, a dentist may also use a screening dye which can dye certain cells in the mouth blue or a screening light that highlights abnormal tissue.

Oral Cancer Screenings at Beautiful Smiles Dental Center

You don’t need to travel far or take much time out of your day to have an oral cancer screening, visit Beautiful Smiles Dental Center for the screening.

Beautiful Smiles Dental Center specializes in preventive, cosmetic, and emergency dental services. You can visit our dental practice in Gurnee, IL for oral exams, cancer screenings and all the dental services that you need to maintain a bright and healthy smile.

As we age, we often interpret our body’s aches and pains as unavoidable consequences of getting older — however, if you detect cavity symptoms, there is still plenty you can do for your health.

According to the National Institutes of Health, cavities are the second-most prevalent health problem in the United States with over 3 million cases each year, being beaten out only by the common cold. They are often painful, worsen over time, and also quite preventable and treatable if you catch these cavity symptoms early in their development.

We may lose some things over time, but your oral health is not something you need to sacrifice.

How Cavities Form

Cavities, also called tooth decay or caries, are permanently damaged areas in the hard surface of your teeth that develop over time into tiny openings or holes. As your tooth enamel softens due to decay from the acids that are created when plaque bacteria break down sugars in your mouth, your tooth is left susceptible to further damage, which is when cavities form.

If left untreated, these plaque acids can continue to eat away at the next layer of the tooth, the dentin, and cause a root cavity that is both more painful and more complicated to fix.

As the Mayo Clinic observes, cavities may be caused by a number of factors, but the development of tooth decay follows the same process regardless of the cause. First, the consumption of excess sugars and starches, which, if not cleaned from the teeth, permit bacteria to feed on them to create dental plaque. This plaque then hardens on the teeth and begins to remove minerals from the tooth’s enamel, eating away into little holes, which is the first stage of cavities. Once the enamel is worn away, the bacteria and acid can continue to the dentin, which is connected to the nerve of the tooth, and even the inner tooth material, or the pulp, that contains nerves and blood vessels.

As the cavity develops, its damage multiplies, causing greater pain and longer-term damage with each day it goes untreated, making it especially important to catch cavity symptoms as early as possible.

Cavity Symptoms

Cavity Symptom #1: A Persistent Toothache

As a general rule, pain is your body’s way of telling you that something is going right; however, a lot of times we push through and ignore them. In the case of your teeth, to leave these persistent pains unaddressed is to ignore the most obvious cavity symptom, which will only lead to more problems — and greater pain.

“Pain is often a [cavity symptom], and pain can be in the gums below the tooth or the tooth itself,” explains Dr. Eric Klein. “Sometimes you have a sharp, acute pain or it may be a dull, throbbing pain, and both are signs of a cavity.”

Cavity Symptom #2: Pain While Chewing

To continue the emphasis on responding to pain, even if a toothache only occurs while chewing and doesn’t persist between meals, that is still a major cavity symptom to acknowledge and a sign that your teeth are in trouble.

Usually felt in a sharp, sudden jolt, pain while chewing is usually an indication that the tooth has a crack in it or because the tooth has a cavity, according to Dr. Klein, and may signal that the nerve in the tooth is even infected.

Cavity Symptoms #3: Discoloration

Thankfully, you don’t have to wait for your teeth to start hurting to catch a cavity symptom early. While cavities eventually appear as small holes in the enamel, some may begin by resembling stains on the surface of your tooth. Natural stains may blemish your smile from time to time, but black, brown, or white spots are usually the early signs of tooth decay.

If these stains feel soft or sticky to the touch, they are a likely cavity symptom and may soon cause the rest of the tooth to darken and eventually chip the enamel, as Colgate’s health professionals explain.

Cavity Symptoms #4: Holes In Teeth

Sometimes the obvious signs are the most overlooked, as is the case with cavity symptoms. As cavities are holes that develop in the enamel from mouth bacteria’s breakdown of plaque into acid, the most obvious cavity symptom to spot would be visible in your teeth.

Nonetheless, few people take the time to inspect their teeth, even while brushing or flossing, and therefore may not see the hole developing in the infected tooth. Always check your teeth for evident holes to catch the cavity symptom as soon as possible.

Cavity Symptom #5: Swelling Around The Tooth

As the Mayo Clinic notes, swelling may occur in the gums around the infected tooth as a cavity develops, especially if it has dug deep into the dentin or the pulp. Often, this swelling is barely perceptible to the eye and hardly painful to the touch, but a bit of discomfort may reveal that the gums are indeed swollen due to a cavity.

“If you have a really deep cavity, it makes the nerve sick or die, and that causes an infection in a nerve that causes swelling,” says Dr. Klein. “Some people feel swelling and it doesn’t even hurt, but that’s caused from the infection.”

Cavity Symptom #6: Sensitivity To Temperature

According to the American Dental Association, one in four adults has an untreated cavity, and virtually every adult will experience tooth decay at some point in their lives. One of the most common cavity symptoms to watch is sensitivity to temperatures, such as hot foods or cold drinks, that may trigger sudden pain or discomfort in the affected tooth.

“Every tooth has a nerve inside of it, and it also has a blood supply to help the tooth grow and function,” says Dr. Klein. “When a cavity gets larger and closer to that nerve, it can sense the change in temperature easier.”

Cavity Symptom #7: Bad Breath

Though a myriad of factors may cause bad breath, it may be more than a sign you’ve indulged in too much garlic during dinner — bad breath is one of the often overlooked cavity symptoms. As cavities are fundamentally small holes in the tooth, food particles and bacteria may easily sneak their way in there and be hard to evict with simple brushing techniques alone.

“A cavity is caused by acid and sugar breaking a hole in the enamel, and then bacteria can get in that hole,” says Dr. Klein. “Bacteria can cause odor and a bad taste in the mouth.”

Cavity Treatment

There is a range of treatments the professionals at Chicago Beautiful Smiles can provide to address your cavity symptoms, depending on the severity of the problem.

Sometimes, periodic fluoride treatments may be necessary to battle ongoing cavity symptoms, as you may not be receiving enough fluoride through sources such as fluoridated drinking water. Additionally, the Mayo Clinic recognizes antibacterial treatments as especially helpful for those whose medical history may make their teeth more susceptible to tooth decay.

If you’re experiencing more than one of these cavity symptoms, the best treatment will likely be a filling, which is when the decayed portion of the tooth is drilled away and replace with a strong filling of composite resins. Crowns and fillings may be required for more advanced cavities, but overall, fillings stop cavities from growing any larger.

At Beautiful Smiles Dental Center in Gurnee, IL, your smile is our priority, which often begins with addressing that first cavity symptom as soon as you notice it.

Beautiful Smiles Dental Center – What to Expect During Your Next Dental Visit

Choosing the right dental practice and dentist in your local area is very important. Not only will your chosen dental center provide ongoing care to help you maintain a beautiful and healthy smile, but they’ll be fundamental in spotting problems early and providing you with reliable emergency dental services when needed.

Beautiful Smiles Dental Center strives to provide patients with the best service for dental health. We combine advanced treatments and extensive professional expertise with a relaxing and comfortable environment tailored towards patient care.

When you visit our dental practice, you can always expect to be treated with the upmost care by trained professionals. We go the extra mile to make sure that you’re comfortable and well-informed about all treatments and procedures.

Whether you’ve been visiting Beautiful Smiles Dental Center for many years, you’re planning your first visit, or you’re searching for the best dental practices in Gurnee, Illinois you can expect the highest quality of service from our team. To prepare you for your visit, here’s what to expect from your next appointment with Dr. Milagros Gálvez at Beautiful Smiles Dental Center:

Convenient to Waukegan, Gurnee, & Park City, IL

The first thing to expect on a visit to Beautiful Smiles Dental Center is convenience. Our dental practice is located at 355 S. Greenleaf Ave., Suite E Park City, IL 60085, putting us in the perfect position to serve the residents of Park City. You can reach our practice quickly from anywhere in Park City, Gurnee, Waukegan, and the surrounding areas, which is convenient for dental emergencies when you need access to a reliable dental practice without any delays!

Excellent, Well Trained Staff that Welcomes You

A warm welcome is a guarantee when you visit Beautiful Smiles Dental Center. Our friendly staff are always happy to help and go above and beyond to make sure that your experience with us is nothing short of perfect. All of our staff are well trained, friendly, and accommodating, so if you have any questions, concerns, or special requirements, you don’t need to be afraid to ask and we’ll help where possible.

Bilingual Staff – English and Spanish (Espanol)

Whether you’re stopping by Beautiful Smiles Dental Center for a consultation or you need expert care at a moment’s notice, excellent communication is critical to ensure you’re well-informed of all the options open to you. Dr. Milagros Gálvez is completely fluent in Spanish and English, so you’ll be able to receive expert advice in the language you feel most comfortable using.

Knowledgeable, Highly Skilled Dentists

From our cosmetic and restorative treatments to the warm welcome you’ll receive on arrival, every part of the Beautiful Smiles Dental Center experience is tailored towards excellent patient care.

Dr. Milagros Gálvez is an expert in many areas of dentistry with extensive professional training and more than a decade of experience providing exemplary dental care.

You can expect nothing less than the best professional advice and the highest standard of treatment when you visit Beautiful Smiles Dental Center.

Beautiful Smiles Dental – In-Network Dental Insurances

At Beautiful Smiles Dental Center, we aim to deliver the best dental treatments at affordable prices. Dr. Milagros Gálvez accepts a large number of in-network insurances, so you can receive the treatment you need without paying extra. The in-network insurances our practice accepts, include:

Aetna
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois
Cigna
Dearborn National
Delta Dental
Dental Network of America
Guardian
Humana
MetLife
Principle Financial Group
Sun Life Financial
Tricare Dental Program
UniCare
United Concordia
UnitedHealthcare

Excellent Bedside Manner

We understand that visiting the dentist for severe or long-term tooth problems can be a daunting prospect, but our goal is to put your mind at ease. Beautiful Smiles Dental Center offers a relaxing environment with staff that will make you feel comfortable and relaxed before, during, and after treatment. Excellent bedside manner is a guarantee at our practice for every member of the family, from the youngest member visiting the dentist for the first time to the oldest.

Fast Services with Short Wait Times & Speedy Response

Beautiful Smiles Dental Center minimizes wait time, so you’ll always be able to see a dentist as quickly as possible. Whether you’re visiting us for a routine dental check-up or a cosmetic treatment, you won’t have to wait long for an appointment with Dr. Milagros Gálvez. In emergencies, we strive to provide you with an appointment in the fastest time possible to reduce your pain and put the best treatment plan in place – you’ll always get a fast response from the Beautiful Smiles Dental team!

A Range of Dental Specialties

Dr. Milagros Gálvez doesn’t just specialize in one area of dentistry but offers an extensive range of services. On your next trip to Beautiful Smiles Dental Center, you’ll have access to many of the best dental treatments available and the latest techniques and equipment. Dr. Milagros Gálvez provides a large number of general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry treatments, as well as being a dental pain specialist.

Preventive Dentistry

Dental Check-ups
Oral Exams
X-Rays
Teeth Cleaning
Sealants
Fluoride Treatments

Restorative & Specialist Treatments

Cosmetic Dentistry

At Beautiful Smiles Dental Center, we treat the whole family, providing advanced restoration treatments, emergency procedures, effective cosmetic procedures, and regular maintenance check-ups to keep your smile looking perfect!

New Dental Patient – Exclusive Special Offers

Special Offers

Top Dentist Reviews in Gurnee, IL

We take great pride in the high-quality service that we offer our new and existing patients, which is why we’re happy to promote our exceptional reviews. Before your next visit to Beautiful Smiles Dental Center, you can check out some of the reviews on our website to give you a true insight into what patients think of us and what you should expect from the overall experience we provide.

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Easy Dental Appointment Scheduling & Rapid Registration

From beginning to end, visiting Beautiful Smiles Dental Center is an easy and stress-free experience, starting with scheduling an appointment. For complete ease and convenience, you can book an appointment to see Dr. Milagros Gálvez straight from our website. You’ll be able to take a look at our appointment calendar, pick a date that works for you, and then choose a convenient time. You can also contact us directly on 847.249.5700 if you have any questions.

New patient registration is also an easy and fast process, where again you’ll find everything you need to register on our website. The new patient form covers essential information like your medical and dental history, contact information, and insurance details, which you can fill out and submit online.

Appointments

Booking an appointment only takes a couple of minutes and you’ll be able to select a time and date to fit your schedule from a number of options. We look forward to welcoming you on your next visit to the award-winning Beautiful Smiles Dental Center!

MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT HERE with Dr. Milagros Gálvez at Beautiful Smiles Dental Center

Now you know exactly what to expect from a visit to Beautiful Smiles Dental Center, there’s no better time to book an appointment online with Dr. Milagros Gálvez! With everything you need to book an appointment being easily accessible from our website, it couldn’t be simpler to schedule a consultation with us at a time that suits you.

Teeth Grinding Causes & Treatments for Bruxism

Have you recently become aware that you grind your teeth? Or perhaps you’ve noticed that your partner or child grinds their teeth while they sleep? Regular teeth grinding is a condition called bruxism.

Bruxism is a fairly common condition that’s thought to affect around 1 in every 12.5 adults and a little less than 1 in every 3 children. Grinding your teeth is not always a serious condition but it can sometimes lead to severe symptoms and dental problems.

Understanding what causes bruxism and being able to identify the symptoms are the first steps towards getting the correct treatment. Whether you’re concerned that you may have bruxism, or you’re looking for more information for a loved one, then keep reading to learn more about the condition & how it’s treated. For more information on teeth grinding prevention & stopping Nocturnal Bruxism: “Back Off the Grind: Stop Nocturnal Bruxism”

Unconscious Pressure: Hacks for Overnight Teeth Grinding

Understanding Bruxism

One of the most important things to know about bruxism is that there are two types: awake bruxism and sleep bruxism. Both types of bruxism are essentially the same, but they’re normally brought on by different causes.

Awake bruxism is when you subconsciously grind or gnash your teeth while you’re awake. Sleep bruxism, or nocturnal tooth grinding, is grinding or clenching that occurs while you’re asleep.

Like many conditions, bruxism can vary in severity. Mild cases of bruxism are unlikely to require much in the way of treatment, whilst severe cases need effective treatment to prevent serious dental problems from occurring.

Bruxism is not a life-threatening condition, but it can be very difficult to live with. If not treated quickly and effectively, bruxism can lead to complications that can have a greater impact on your health.

Bruxism Symptoms to Look Out For

A clear sign that you have bruxism is a frequent grinding, clenching, or gnashing of your teeth. However, as bruxism is very common during sleep, this may not be immediately noticeable unless someone alerts you to the sound.

There are a number of symptoms of bruxism that can help you to identify whether you or a loved one has the condition, these include:

Tooth sensitivity or pain
Soreness in the cheek from chewing
Headaches or earaches
Stiffness and pain around the jaw
Difficulty sleeping
Pain in the neck and face
Worn or flattened teeth
Fractured or chipped teeth/fillings

The symptoms of bruxism may not become apparent until the condition worsens, and even then, you may not experience all/any of them. In the worst cases, the wear on teeth can be so severe that patients need extensive dental work to restore function.

The Main Causes of Bruxism

It’s not always easy to determine the reason why an individual has bruxism, as there are a large number of possible causes. One of the first steps during a diagnosis is to determine whether you have sleep bruxism or awake bruxism, as often, the causes are very different.

Awake bruxism is often rooted in your emotions at the time, which may cause you to unconsciously grind your teeth. Emotions that can cause awake bruxism include anger, stress, frustration, and anxiety. Deep concentration can also cause bruxism.

Emotions can cause sleep bruxism, but it can also be the result of:

An abnormal bite
Crooked teeth
Missing teeth
A sleep disorder like obstructive sleep apnea or sleep paralysis
Talking or violent behavior during sleep
Semi-conscious hallucinations

Further causes of bruxism and factors that can increase risk include:

Lifestyle choices, such as smoking, recreational drug use, high caffeine intake, and alcohol
Taking certain medications, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor
A family history of bruxism
Medical and mental health disorders, including dementia, epilepsy, and Parkinson’s disease

Visiting a local gurnee dentist is one of the best ways to get an accurate diagnosis of the cause of bruxism.

Teeth Grinding Treatment Options for Bruxism– Everything You Need to Know

Bruxism can become very damaging to your teeth, potentially leading to fractures or tooth loss. The condition can also damage your jaw and alter your facial appearance, so getting treatment early on is important.

The options available to treat bruxism are almost as varied as the causes of the condition. If bruxism is rooted in another condition, such as a sleep disorder, then treating the disorder will likely reduce teeth grinding.

If stress or anxiety is the cause of bruxism, then cognitive behavioral therapy may be advised, along with relaxation activities like yoga or massage before sleep. It’s also possible to reduce teeth grinding by learning how to correctly position the jaw and mouth, and by changing habits, such as by stopping the clenching or grinding of teeth as soon as it’s noticed.

Other common treatments for bruxism include:

Mouth Guards and Splints – Splints and mouth guards are a common dental approach to treating bruxism. These are used to keep teeth separate and reduce the damage that grinding causes.
Restorative Dental Procedures – When dental problems are the cause of bruxism, restorative treatments are often used to help stop the grinding. If the condition has caused serious damage to teeth, then corrective dental work may be required. Crowns, bridges, implants, and dentures can help to restore function and appearance.
Medication – Over-the-counter pain relief can be used to reduce some symptoms. Medication to treat anxiety or stress can help if these problems are the root cause of an individual’s bruxism. In some instances, a doctor may prescribe muscle relaxants to be used before sleep in the short term.

There are also ways to treat bruxism at home, such as reducing alcohol and caffeinated food and drink intake, giving up smoking and recreational drugs, and avoiding chewing gum.

Best and Worst foods for your Teeth & Gums

Great oral health starts with taking care of your teeth and gums with a good cleaning routine, but it doesn’t just end there! What you eat on a daily basis can have a profound effect on your oral health.

The right foods keep your teeth strong and your gums healthy, helping to prevent bad breath, and serious dental problems like gum disease. The wrong foods could result in poor tooth strength and difficulties fighting oral bacteria which can lead to tooth decay.

So, what should you be eating for healthy teeth and gums, and what should you be limiting to the occasional treat? Here are four examples of excellent foods for great oral health, and four examples of foods that could be doing more harm than good to your teeth and gums…

The Best Four Foods for Your Teeth & Gums

The good news is that there’s an abundance of foods that have amazing oral health benefits. A good diet for your teeth and gums certainly doesn’t have to be a boring diet, here are four top foods that you should definitely try to include to improve your oral health:

Cheese

Cheddar, gorgonzola, parmesan, edam… if you love indulging in a spot of cheese, then you’re in luck! Cheese is one of the best foods that you can eat for great oral health. Not only is the calcium in cheese great for keeping your teeth and bone healthy, but cheese is actually thought to increase and balance the pH levels in your mouth.

With the protein in cheese helping to balance the pH level, there’s less risk of acid causing oral problems, which can help to prevent tooth decay in the long run.

Apples

Fruit is a brilliant alternative to processed sweet foods, and there are few fruits that are better for your teeth and gums than apples. Naturally sweet, apples shouldn’t be overindulged in, but an apple a day can at least contribute to keeping the dentist away! The chewing involved in eating an apple can help to cleanse your mouth of bacteria, which is certainly beneficial for avoiding tooth problems, like decay. The unique texture of an apple also provides stimulation to the gums, and the high vitamin content contributes to healthier gums.

If apples are not at the top of your list of favorite foods, then other hard foods, like carrots or celery can have a similar result. Apples, carrots, and celery can all act as a natural toothbrush, helping to keep the mouth clean of food debris and teeth free of plaque.

Onions

Onions may not be as delicious of a snack as apples or cheese, but your teeth and gums will thank you for including a little raw onion in your diet. One of the main benefits of a healthy dose of onion is better overall oral health; this is thanks to the sulfur compounds in onions which can kill harmful bacteria in the mouth.

By adding onions to your diet, you can better manage oral bacteria, which helps to keep your gums healthy. With the great microbial properties of onions, you can lower the risk of developing gum disease and prevent cavities.

Leafy Greens

There are few ‘top food’ lists that you won’t find leafy greens on, and for good reason. Leafy greens, like spinach, cabbage and broccoli are packed full of nutrients; this is particularly the case with dark green vegetables which often contain high quantities of calcium (excellent for strong teeth), iron (iron deficiency can increase the risk of gum disease), and fiber (reduces the risk of tooth loss and bone loss).

Leafy greens can also help to stimulate saliva production which keeps your mouth free of food debris and plaque. By broadening your diet with these top four oral-friendly foods, you’ll soon be on your way to enjoying healthier teeth and gums!

The Worst Four Foods for Your Teeth & Gums

Not all foods are going to do your teeth and gums as much good as apples or cheese. A few select foods could contribute to serious oral health problems if they’re not consumed in moderation. Here are the four foods to avoid for healthy teeth and gums:

Bread

The first things that you associate bread with might not be tooth decay, gum disease or tooth loss, but they’re a very real risk if you consume bread too often without brushing your teeth immediately after. Bread is very high in starch, which once in the mouth and exposed to saliva, slowly breaks down to form sugar. The sugar will then start to feed bacteria in the mouth, which can lead to acid production; this in turn will start to break down tooth enamel. As bread easily gets stuck between your teeth, the impact it has on your dental health can cause major problems in the long term, like gum disease.

Potato Chips

Potato chips are another carbohydrate that can contribute to dental problems. The processed snack isn’t overly healthy to begin with, but the tendency of small pieces of chips to get stuck between your teeth make them particularly unhealthy for your mouth. Having food stuck between your teeth can cause bad breath, but more worryingly, it also attacks your teeth. The longer the chips spend in your mouth, the more damage they’ll do to your teeth and gums. Like bread, there’s also the risk of the starch in potato chips feeding the plaque on your teeth!

Ice

Adding ice to a cool beverage on a hot day isn’t going to do much damage to your oral health, but if you start biting down on the ice, then your teeth could be at risk. Very hard foods, like ice, can do serious damage to the enamel on your teeth. The short-term issue of enamel loss is increased susceptibility to tooth damage; the long-term result of chewing ice can be cracked and chipped teeth which will require an emergency trip to a dentist in Gurnee IL.

Citrus Fruits

It probably won’t come as much of a surprise that citrus fruits have made the top worst foods list. The high acid content of fruits like lemons, grapefruits, and limes can cause serious damage to your teeth. In the short term, citrus fruits can aggravate mouth sores and in the long term they can slowly erode away the enamel on your teeth, which can lead to severe tooth decay.

However, these fruits can also do a lot of good for your oral health. The high vitamin C content of fruits like oranges and pineapples mean that they come with a burst of anti-inflammatory properties. To manage the benefits of citrus fruits with the potential problems, it’s important to maintain other great oral health habits, like attending regular oral examinations & dental checkups.

Stay on Top of Your Dental Health with Dental Exams in Gurnee IL

If you’re worried about the impact of your diet on the health of your teeth, then attending regular dental exams in Gurnee IL, is the answer. The Beautiful Smiles Dental Center provides a range of preventative and restorative treatments that can help you to keep your teeth and gums healthy and looking and feeling great.

When you visit a Beautiful Smiles dentist in Gurnee, you can arrange for oral examinations & dental checkups with one of our resident dental experts or speak to a cosmetic dentist in Park City, IL. We can diagnose any problems that you may be having with your oral health, spot potential problems early to prevent serious issues, and advise you on the best ways to keep your teeth and gums healthy and problem-free.

By filling your diet with great oral-friendly foods, avoiding the worst foods and staying on top of your oral health with regular trips to your local dentist in Gurnee IL, you can keep your teeth and gums looking great on the outside and healthy on the inside!

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