Joshua Hong, DDS Blog

Taking the right steps at an early stage is the best way to prevent any problem. This is why parents must have their child screened by a dentist at the age of seven because it is the best time to diagnose any underlying teeth problems so that they can be addressed in time. Your child could be suffering from a dental problem or may show signs of a future dental problem but if you are unaware of the symptoms, the problem may go undiagnosed until it becomes major. Here are 5 very unusual dental conditions which every parent must be aware of:

1. Dental Agenesis

The term denotes the absence of one or more teeth and the condition is typically caused due to a developmental failure. Despite being one of the most common dental anomalies the pathogenic mechanisms and genetic background of this condition are still poorly understood. It typically affects bay teeth after a child loses his/her primary teeth. Since there is little that can be done in this case, dental implants can give your child a confident smile and self-esteem in particular.

2. Germinated Teeth

Tooth germination typically occurs when two teeth sprout from a single bud and the condition is akin to tooth fusion. When several chambers of tooth pulp are shooting out from a single root, it gives rise to problems like tooth decay and bad bite due to overcrowding. If the tooth is wide and prevents adjacent teeth from erupting normally, an extraction becomes necessary.

3. Hypodontia

This is an extremely rare condition wherein the patient has all of his/her teeth missing. The missing teeth simply never grow due to a genetic abnormality that only affects permanent teeth. A child suffering from hypodontia will never develop any teeth after losing the primary set of teeth. However, dentists also come across cases where the child has more than six teeth missing but not all. Little can be done in case of hypodontia which is why implants and dentures are the only solution parents have to ensure that their child’s ability to speak, eat and socialize is not affected adversely.

4. Supernumerary Teeth

Medically known as Hyperdontia, this condition is characterized as having too many teeth, however, most cases involve just one extra tooth. Since supernumerary teeth develop in the gum, they often go unnoticed until you notice a crooked eruption. Generally dentists recommend an extraction in case of overcrowding but orthodontia may also be a viable option.

5. Talon Cusps

The most distinct feature of this dental condition is a claw-like growth behind the teeth. Talon cusps usually emerge in the front of the mouth or behind the canines or incisors. This condition can cause problems such as malocclusion, bad bite, plaque, irritation of the gums and overcrowding. If the cusp contains pulp, a root canal treatment becomes necessary and if it does not contain pulp, the dentist may simply grind it down.

If your child is showing any of the above-mentioned symptoms, it is best to have your child examined professionally and even if there are no evident symptoms, a dental checkup is important. It helps in identifying potential dental problems that could invite an orthodontic procedure. Also, an early diagnosis can help your child cope with dental problems better and enable your dentist to ensure the best possible outcome. This is why every parent should have their child examined for unfamiliar dental problems that could invite expensive procedures at a later stage.

Most over the counter medicines have side effects including oral side effects. So, the next time you pop a pill be sure to check that it is not causing any harm to your oral health. Medications surely make you feel much better but all of them whether taken orally or injected, have the risk of side effects and oral problems. You would be surprised to know that medicines used for treating the symptoms of common cold, pain, high blood pressure, allergies, depression, and even cancer are known to negatively impact your oral health. This is why you should discuss your prescriptions with your dentist and not just your doctor. This will help you learn more about medications that can cause oral side effects and know how you can limit them.

Know Your Risk and Reduce It  

The most common side effects of OTC medicines on your dental health include:

1. Dry Mouth

Medically known as Xerostomia, dry mouth is usually caused by certain chemotherapy medicines, antidepressants, narcotic pain medications, anti-spasm medications and antihistamines. More than 400 medications are known to cause an uncomfortably dry mouth by drastically reducing the amount of saliva. This dryness causes irritation and inflammation of soft tissues and increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

2. Gum Swelling

Also referred to as Gingival Overgrowth, this condition is typically associated with anti-seizure medications, blood pressure medications prescribed to heart patients and immunosuppressant drugs that are prescribed to patients when undergoing an organ transplant procedure. When gum tissues become so swollen that they start growing over the teeth, they create a favorable environment for bacteria to thrive and this can severely damage your surrounding tooth structures. The best way to prevent this medical condition is to maintain meticulous dental hygiene prior to starting the medication.

3. Tooth Decay

Prolonged use of sweetened medications including vitamins, syrups, cough drops and antacids can cause tooth decay. To prevent tooth decay you can either ask your doctor to prescribe sugar-free alternatives or immediately rinse your mouth after taking these medicines.

4. Discolored Teeth

Tetracycline drugs are known to cause tooth discoloration if taken when the teeth are still developing. Today tetracycline and related antibiotics are not prescribed to children below the age of 8 and also to expectant mothers to prevent permanent staining of teeth. However, tooth discoloration can be effectively treated using cosmetic dentistry techniques like bleaching, dental veneers, and bonding procedures.

5. Fungal Infections

Fungal infections are usually caused by inhaler medicines that are prescribed to asthma patients. These inhalers often trigger a yeast infection which is medically known as oral candidiasis. Rinse your mouth every time after using an inhaler to prevent this side effect.

6. Mouth Sores

Ulcers often occur inside the mouth and most over the counter medicines are known to cause mouth sores including aspirin, penicillin, streptomycin, phenytoin and sulphonamides. Chemotherapy drugs can also cause canker sores on the tongue and in the moist tissues that line your mouth.

7. Metallic Taste

Many medicines can interfere with your sense of taste and make your food taste metallic, bitter or salty. Such taste changes are common among people taking multiple medicines. Drugs known to cause taste changes include allergy medications, blood thinners, corticosteroids, asthma medicines, blood pressure medications, cholesterol-lowering drugs, smoking cessation products, thyroid medicines, muscle relaxers and chemotherapy drugs.

These are only a few of the many side effects caused by over the counter medicines so it is important that your dentist knows what medicines you are prescribed. This will ensure that you receive the best dental care and prevent the unpleasant effects of prescription drugs.

If you are combating any of the side effects of over the counter medicines, call us today at 623.925.8822 and know what you need to do to protect your teeth and gums.

Spring is in full swing which means more time outdoors! As baseball and soccer take the center stage in your child’s life, you need to ensure that falls and collisions don’t do any major damage. Keep your child’s teeth safe from flying baseballs and footballs with the following precautionary measures and keep the fun going:

1. Use the Right Protective Equipment

It is all fun and games until somebody breaks a tooth, right? Sports are entertaining only when your child is fully prepared with proper equipment especially when playing contact sports. Injuries and falls can happen anytime so protect your child’s teeth with the right protective gear. Wearing face masks, shoulder pads, chest protectors and gloves when playing rugby, soccer, basketball, football, baseball and hockey may feel like a hindrance to your child initially but they efficiently prevent tooth fracture, painful extrusions and splitting of the lips.

2. Wear a Sports Teeth Guard

A sports teeth guard is designed to seamlessly fit along your child’s teeth and gum line for protection in case of a collision. Easily available at sports stores, you can also have your dentist customize the teeth guard to perfectly fit the size and shape of your child’s teeth.

3. Put on a Helmet

Helmets not only protect your child’s skull from accidents and concussions but also guard the mouth from injuries. Wearing helmets when biking, skateboarding, and playing other speed and impact sports will reduce the chances of fractured tooth and oral trauma.

4. Use Sports Eyewear

Even non contact sports can result in severe eye injuries. Sports eyewear offers ultimate protection against fast moving bats, balls, racquets, jabs and elbows.

5. Follow the Rules

Injuries should not keep your child from pursuing his/her favorite sport but ensuring their safety during practice sessions is your responsibility. No parent would like to see their child venture into the football field from the wrong end and get tackled by a sea of players. Making sure that your child has a complete understanding of the rules and regulations before playing any sport will greatly reduce the risk of injury.

6. Eat Superpower Foods for Strong Teeth and Healthy Bones

A healthy diet that is rich in proteins, fibers and dairy will keep your child’s teeth strong and bones healthy.  Strawberry, kiwis, nuts, seeds, veggies, celery and fibrous foods are essential for growing children who actively participate in sports.

7. Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is imperative to the health and safety of your child’s teeth. Getting your child into the habit of brushing twice a day and flossing regularly will ensure proper oral protection both on the field and off the field. It is also a good idea to have your child visit the dentist for removal of plaque and professional cleaning.

While recreational and school sports help children develop discipline, leadership qualities and learn social skills, they are also a major cause of serious injuries that often leave children with missing teeth. Taking your child to the dentist twice a year is the best way to keep your child’s teeth in top condition and prevent dental problems.

Joshua Hong DDS is here to help you tackle your child’s every dental problem, any sports season. Call us today at 623-925-8822 for a caring dental appointment that helps your little heroes win every battle – whether it is against the sugar bugs or school players.

Being able to chew your food so digestion happens effectively is crucial for your body to absorb nutrients. For that, you need your teeth!

Being able to talk right, to pronounce words correctly so that others can understand you is absolutely essential. For that, you need your teeth!

Being able to smile at someone – be it your crush, your colleague, your child or anyone, really makes you feel good. For that, you need teeth!

Being healthy and avoiding unwanted diseases is crucial. For that also, you need teeth!

So, you get the point. Your teeth are very important for your overall health and well-being. Taking better care of your teeth doesn’t only mean routinely maintaining oral hygiene. It also requires a deeper understanding of the impact that your various routine activities have on your teeth and gums.

Here are some activities and habits that can be detrimental to your oral health:

• Unconsciously Acquired Habits
  Thumb sucking is usually attributed to children. But, it is also seen in quite a few adults. Persistence of this habit exposes your mouth to harmful germs and bacteria from your hand, and can also lead to misaligned teeth. This may in turn affect your ability to chew and speak.

  Clenching and grinding of teeth is another potentially harmful habit. Some may grind their teeth while asleep, and others may unconsciously do so when under stress, in deep thought or as a nervous tick. Continuous grinding will put stress on the teeth and jaws, and wear down the enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to cracks and breakages.

  The best way to get rid of such habits is to consciously redirect your attention and focus towards non-intrusive activities. However, in severe cases, you should consult your dentist about preventative measures.

• Using Teeth as Tools
  Teeth have specific functions. When they are utilized for activities that they are not meant for, it often results in unwanted hassles.

  Chewing on ice is something a lot of us do. It not only puts pressure on your teeth, but also exposes them to an unsuitable cold temperature.

  Also, using your teeth instead of a bottle opener, scissors or pliers, exerts extra pressure which may loosen your teeth or result in cracked enamel. Similarly, nail biting due to stress or unavailability of a nail cutter leads to wear and tear of the teeth, and exposes your mouth to harmful and infection-causing microbes.

• Unhealthy Lifestyle Choices
  You already know that tobacco consumption is extremely harmful for your entire body including your teeth. Regular consumption does more damage than leaving you with just a permanent bad breath and discolored teeth. It seriously increases your chances of contracting mouth cancer. The best way to avoid such adverse health conditions is to immediately quit consuming tobacco in any form and contact your dentist for reversing the damage such as spotted teeth. Getting a piercing in or around your mouth is another harmful lifestyle choice that has long lasting impacts. It not only increases the risk of sores and lesions but also the chances of mouth infections and gum disease. They are known to disrupt the alignment of your teeth.

  Other unhealthy habits include not cleansing your mouth after meals and consuming sugary foods and liquids. It is essential to rinse mouth after every meal to avoid the risks of cavities due to food residue.

  Mostly damage due to such habits is not immediately visible and requires a professional assessment. Therefore, it is important to regularly schedule oral examinations with your dentist.  Contact us now at Joshua Hong DDS in Goodyear AZ, and we can guide you better.

A study by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) indicates adults age 20-44, otherwise known as Millennials or Gen Y, are the segment with the highest percentage of untreated decay in their permanent teeth. This is because of the growing trend of self-diagnoses after researching symptoms on the internet.

Further research into the matter indicated that adults age 20-34 are more likely to have avoided the dentist for 2-3 years. And, that is where the downfall of oral health begins. If you are a part of Gen Y and the above mentioned habits seem familiar to you, you should take a look at what’s in store for you!

• Bruxism
  More commonly known as constant teeth grinding may not seem like a serious dental problem at first but it can wear out your teeth and cause them to chip or break gradually. Chronic teeth grinding may result in fracturing, loosening, or even loss of teeth, in some cases. Persistence of such a problem will not only damage your teeth, but it may also affect your jaws and result in malfunctioning of the Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) which can even change the appearance of your face.
• Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)
  This disorder is extremely tough to diagnose as these symptoms occur in areas other than the jaw and require physical examination of your mouth by the dentist as well as specialized tests such as the BITE Test in certain cases. If a dysfunctional TMJ goes unnoticed, it can lead to:
  1. Loss of hearing
  2. Speech abnormality
  3. Severe headaches
  4. Oral deformation
  5. Digestive tract health problems
  6. Immune dysfunction
• Hypersensitivity
  As you begin to age, you may begin to notice heighten sensitivity in your teeth due to consumption of extremely cold or hot foods. This can happen due to decaying teeth, chipped teeth, worn-out enamel, tooth decay or even gum disease.  The severity depends on the health of your teeth. However, if left untreated for long amounts of time, it may lead to hypersensitivity and eventually result in loss of teeth.
• Dry mouth
  The lack of saliva can cause significant damage to your teeth and gums as it washes away food and other debris, neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth, while maintaining the health of the soft and hard tissues in the mouth. The reduced supply of saliva or the lack thereof may can ultimately result in tooth and gum decay.
• Gum disease
  People usually don’t show signs of gum disease until they are in their 30s or 40s.  The first stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, which may lead to periodontitis, a more serious, destructive form of the same, if it is left untreated. This can result in significant damage to the bones, gums, and tissue that support the teeth and putting the sufferer at risk of losing teeth and supporting bone.
• Oropharyngeal Cancer
  The symptoms of oropharyngeal cancer usually start as a tiny, white or red spot or sore or swelling anywhere in the mouth or throat. It could be anything ranging from a sore lump to numbness in certain areas. Such symptoms aren’t indicative of oral cancer and require further inspection by trained professionals to ascertain the root cause of the same.

  As you can see, to ensure you are safe and protected from the above mentioned oral problems, timely dental check-ups are an absolute must. This will improve the chances of catching suspicious changes in your oral health early and preventative measures can be taken well in time.  If you are facing any problems while chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving your tongue or jaw, make an appointment with our experienced Smile Team at Joshua Hong DDS and we will make sure relief is on the way.

This National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM) Take an Oath for Your Child’s Oral Health

February 2017 is National Children’s Dental Health Month and it brings together thousands of dental professionals, healthcare practitioners and dedicated educators to raise awareness about children’s oral health and the benefits of proper dental care. This year’s NCDHM campaign will promote the slogan “Choose Tap Water for a Sparkling Smile” to children and their teachers, parents, and caregivers. The American Dental Association in collaboration with the ADA foundation will undertake a month-long awareness program and use versatile publicity resources and fun activity sheets to raise awareness at various events. Be a part of this initiative and educate your child on oral health. The time that you invest in their oral care today will pay lifelong dividends in the form of healthy gums and cavity-free teeth.

How Optimal Oral Care Translates To a Happy and Healthy Child

Parents lay the foundation of healthy teeth in their children by establishing a proper oral hygiene routine. For this, parents should be equipped with all the important information they need about their children’s oral health. Use the following 5 tips to protect your child’s teeth and gums from decay and cavities:

1. Make sure that your child brushes his/her teeth twice a day with an ADA approved fluoride toothpaste that efficiently removes plaque and prevents cavity. Make sure your child does not swallow the toothpaste.
2. Flossing daily will remove plaque from under the gum line and in between the teeth. This will prevent the accumulated plaque from turning into tartar and your child won’t have to undergo a professional cleaning session.
3. Feed your children a well-balanced diet that does not include starchy, sweet, and sugary foods.
4. Use fluoridated drinking water and dental products that contain fluoride.
5. Make sure your child’s toothbrush has soft and rounded bristles. Replace the brush every four months.

Dental health for Children is just as important as their overall health and well-being. Daily oral hygiene and regular dental visits will reduce the incidence of cavities, decay, gum disease, and tooth loss. Only parents can introduce, inculcate and reinforce healthy oral habits in children as they grow. Lead by example and help your child understand the importance of brushing and flossing for an improved quality of life. Start with your Children’s first dental visit at the earliest and prevent little problems from becoming dental abscesses and emergency room visits.

Other Ways to Protect Your Child’s Teeth & Gums from Decay

Decrease the amount of sweet juices and sugary foods from your child’s diet as they damage the teeth’s enamel. Immediately visit the dentist if your child experiences sudden bouts of throbbing pain when chewing hot or cold foods. Never leave a cavity untreated because it can cause severe pain and serious oral infections which can later invite early teeth extractions and expensive restorative treatments.

Key Points to Consider for your Children’s Dental Care

• Tooth decay occurs when bacteria produce acids while breaking down sweet and sugary foods and drinks. If these acids are not washed away, they can damage the tooth’s enamel.
•  Certain medicines have high sugar content so it is important to clean your child’s teeth after a dose of sweet liquid medicines.
• The best times to brush your child’s teeth are in the morning and before they go to bed.
• Give your child a glass of water after every meal to make sure all the sweet and sugary substances are washed away.
• You can inculcate the habit of flossing in your children from the age of 4.
• Limit the intake of cookies, candies, potato chips, pretzels, soft drinks, and fruit juices.
• In case your child chips or knocks out a tooth, contact your dentist immediately.

This National Children’s Dental Health Month, take an oath – to inculcate an oral hygiene routine in your children at an early age, so that their teeth remain healthy and happy even in old age.

While good dental health is important at any stage in life, it’s especially critical when you’re pregnant. Even when you’re busy preparing your body, home and life for the new arrival, you can’t afford to let your oral health slide!

Let’s look at some of the dilemmas that expecting mothers face about pregnancy and teeth, and understand the link between them.

The Importance of Good Dental Health during Pregnancy

Your body goes through major changes when you’re carrying a child, and hormonal surges in particular can affect your dental health, leading to tooth decay, gum disease and more. In expecting mothers, gum disease is believed to increase the risk of babies being born pre-term or with low birth weight, so why take a chance?

Oral examinations and dental cleanings are especially helpful during your first trimester, allowing the dentist to pinpoint issues that could affect you or your child, and treat them early.

Pregnancy and Oral Health: Common Issues You May Face

You might have sensitive teeth during pregnancy, or face other issues like:

• Dental Caries – Also known as tooth decay or cavities, this can occur due to pregnancy cravings (high intake of sugary or acidic snacks), morning sickness (exposure to gastric acids), or neglecting oral hygiene and care.
• Pregnancy Gingivitis – Bad breath, loose teeth or bleeding gums could signal the onset of “pregnancy gingivitis” or gum disease. Gums may be more likely to bleed or swell in response to plaque, especially during your third trimester.
• Periodontitis – If gingivitis isn’t treated in time, it can lead to a more serious bacterial infection caused by the accumulation of plaque in your gum tissue. It can lead to loose teeth, bone loss and even affect your baby’s health!
• Tooth Mobility – The supporting structure of your teeth may become loose when you’re pregnant, causing your teeth to shift a little. In most cases, this is only temporary and doesn’t cause tooth loss, but get it checked.
• Enamel Erosion – Along with morning sickness, other gastric conditions like hyperemesis gravidarum or gastric reflux can also expose teeth to stomach acids. Avoid brushing right after you vomit, since this can increase erosion.
• Dry Mouth – Saliva secretion might decrease due to hormonal changes when you’re pregnant, so remain well-hydrated throughout the day. Sugarless gum or hard candies can also help promote saliva production.

Is Dental Work Safe during Pregnancy?

Pre-natal dental exams and cleanings are completely safe, and can prevent a wide range of problems for you and your child. If a dental procedure is required, inform the dentist that you’re pregnant, and try to schedule it during your second trimester (especially if you need local or topical anesthesia).

Don’t ignore oral health problems (especially symptoms of gum disease) because you fear dental work during pregnancy. If you have any questions or concerns, raise them. Modern procedures (even X-rays) are very safe, and the dentist can explain how they work, precautions you need to take, etc.

Dental Health Tips to Follow during Your Pregnancy

Brush and floss regularly, use an antibacterial mouthwash, eat healthy food (rich in vitamins and protein), and get enough calcium to keep your bones strong too.

To protect your teeth from stomach acids, rinse with warm saltwater or baking soda and water a little while after vomiting. If morning sickness is severe or persistent, ask your dentist for other tips on preventing tooth damage.

Even with perfect teeth and gums, it’s a good idea to get professional advice on pre-natal oral care. Don’t waste any time – schedule an appointment with us today!