Why Alcohol is Bad For Teeth

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Alcohol is legal for of-age adults, but just because you can imbibe, doesn’t mean you should. Alcohol must be drunk responsibly and in moderation in order to avoid associated hazards. One of the least discussed risks associated with drinking alcohol doesn’t involve endangering others, but oneself. Alcohol is one of the worst things you can drink in terms of oral health, your dentist in dentist in Medina, OH wants you to know. Rather than contributing vital vitamins and minerals, it has huge negative effects on oral health in more ways than one. Understanding these risks can help you to make informed decisions about alcohol and your dental health.

Enamel Erosion

Many alcoholic beverages, especially wine, beer and mixed drinks, are highly acidic. This acid gradually wears away the protective enamel on teeth, making them more susceptible to decay and sensitivity. Once enamel is eroded, it can’t regenerate, and this increases the risk of cavities, not to mention permanent staining of teeth.

Dry Mouth and Reduced Saliva Production

Even though you’re drinking a liquid, alcohol has a drying effect on the mouth (and body), reducing saliva production. Saliva is essential for neutralizing acids, washing away food particles, and preventing bacterial growth. A dry mouth creates an ideal environment for harmful bacteria to thrive, leading to bad breath, cavities and gum disease.

High Sugar Content in Alcoholic Drinks

Alcohol often contains high amounts of sugar, which fuels bacteria that produce acid and attack tooth enamel. Even lower-sugar options like wine and beer can still contribute to bacterial growth and plaque buildup, increasing the likelihood of cavities and gum inflammation.

Gum Disease Risk

Heavy alcohol consumption is linked to a higher risk of periodontal disease in Medina, OH. Alcohol can irritate the gums, weaken the immune response, and make it harder for the body to fight infections. Over time, untreated gum disease can lead to gum recession, tooth loss and even systemic health issues.

Increased Risk of Oral Cancer

Excessive alcohol consumption is a known risk factor for oral cancer. Alcohol irritates the soft tissues of the mouth and can increase the harmful effects of tobacco use, significantly raising the chances of developing cancer in the lips, tongue, and throat.

No one is saying you should stop drinking. But knowing the risks to your oral health is good for everyone. Contact us today to learn more.

Dental Solutions for Gingivitis

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Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that affects millions of Americans each year. Symptoms include gums that are swollen, discolored, or tender to the touch, chronic bad breath, and bleeding when you brush or floss. It’s important to treat gingivitis right away because it can worsen into periodontitis, which may cause teeth to loosen and fall out. Your dentist in Medina, OH, can give you more information on treatment options for gingivitis.

Scaling and Root Planing

A professional dental cleaning is your first line of defense in the battle against gingivitis. Through a procedure called scaling and root planing, your dentist will remove all traces of plaque and tartar from your teeth, including that trapped beneath the gum line. They’ll remove bacteria and smooth the surfaces of the roots, as well.

A Solid At-Home Oral Health Routine

Once they have thoroughly cleaned your teeth and gums, your dentist will instruct you on how to care for them at home to prevent gingivitis from returning. This may include brushing several times a day or after every meal, as well as flossing regularly. They may recommend an antiseptic mouth rinse as a follow-up option.

Regular Dental Appointments

Keeping regular, six-month appointments with your dentist will help you avoid many of the more common dental problems, including gum disease. Regular cleanings by a professional dentist using specific tools will keep your teeth and gums clean and your breath smelling fresh. It will help you avoid the pain and discomfort of cavities as well.

Call Evanko Dental Group of Medina

For diagnosis and treatment of gum disease in Medina, OH, call Evanko Dental Group today. Our professional and experienced team is always happy to sit down with you to discuss your options for treatment. We’ll make sure you understand what’s going on with your dental health, and we’ll give you the tools and information needed to keep your smile bright and your teeth and gums looking and feeling great.

Contact us today to schedule a convenient time to come in for a routine dental exam and consultation. We’re happy to help with your family’s oral health.

Is It Better to Use An Electric Toothbrush?

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You may have heard that electric toothbrushes are especially good for your teeth, but do you know why? The more you know about electric toothbrushes and how they can benefit you, the easier it is for you to make decisions about how to take care of your teeth. Below are some of the questions that people ask the dentist in Medina OH about electric toothbrushes.

What are the benefits of electric toothbrushes?

Studies have shown that people who use electric toothbrushes have healthier teeth and gums and fewer instances of tooth decay. People who use electric toothbrushes even get to keep their teeth for longer than people who use a manual toothbrush.

What sort of features should I look for in an electric toothbrush?

Electric toothbrushes can come with many features. Basic models will have fewer features than the higher end types of electric toothbrushes. Some examples include:

Oscillating head. Typical electric toothbrushes have an oscillating head that cleans teeth better than manual toothbrushes.

2-minute timer. Electric toothbrushes help people brush their teeth for two minutes at a time, usually by shutting off after two minutes have passed.

Sensors. Some electric toothbrushes have sensors that can tell the user if they’re brushing their teeth too hard.

App. Many electric toothbrushes come with an app that aid good oral hygiene at home.

Are electric toothbrushes expensive?

Electric toothbrushes can be expensive, but many basic models are available for a relatively affordable price.

How can I choose the best electric toothbrush for me?

Your dentist can help by making recommendations that will meet your specific needs. You can also read product reviews and comparison shop. If you’re on a budget, you may need to spend more time looking around and waiting for sales,

I don’t have an electric toothbrush. What can I do to maintain healthy teeth and gums?

Another thing you can do to keep your teeth clean is to see your dentist for frequent dental cleanings in Medina, OH. When you come in for frequent dental cleanings in Medina, OH, your dentist can give you recommendations to maintain healthy teeth. Call Evanko Dental Group of Medina to make an appointment.

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How Often Should I See the Dentist? 

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Do you know how often you’re supposed to see the dentist? If you’re not making regular appointments with your dentist in Medina OH, you could be doing lasting damage to your teeth. Getting your oral health checked on a regular basis can help you avoid plaque buildup, dental decay and other problems. Here’s what you need to know about seeing your dentist, including when and how often. 

Get Regular Checkups Every Six Months

It’s common for dentists to recommend that their patients come in for a teeth cleaning in Medina OH every six months. However, some patients are given a special cleaning schedule, either because they don’t need to see the dentist as often as most patients, or because they need to see the dentist more frequently than every six months. Talk to your dentist to find out what kind of dental schedule is recommended for you. 

See the Dentist When There’s An Emergency

Do you know what constitutes a dental emergency? Some common examples of dental emergencies include: 

  • Loss of a permanent tooth. This is always a dental emergency. Seeing your dentist as soon as possible is critical! Get instructions from your dentist as soon as the tooth is lost to find out what you should do in the event that this event occurs.
  • Loose teeth. No permanent tooth should become loose. If it does, contact your dentist right away for next steps. 
  • Terrible pain. You should never experience terrible pain in your mouth – if you do, it’s time to see the dentist as soon as possible. 
  • Dental injury. Did you crack, chip or damage a tooth? Is your mouth bleeding? Talk to your dentist as soon as possible. 

Schedule An Appointment If You’re Noticing Symptoms

If you’re noticing symptoms of a dental problem, talk to your dentist to find out if you need to come in for an appointment. Symptoms to watch for include:

  • Gum recession
  • Swollen, bleeding gums
  • Cracked or broken tooth
  • Pain in your teeth
  • Swelling in the mouth
  • Chronic bad breath

Is it time for you to see the dentist? Contact Evanko Dental Group of Medina. Our dental professionals will be happy to clean your teeth and assess your oral health. 

 

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What’s the Difference Between a Dental Cleaning and a Deep Cleaning?  

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Deep cleaning and standard dental cleanings aren’t the same procedure. If your dentist in Medina OH has suggested that you get a deep cleaning, it’s important to know how this is different from a standard dental cleaning.

Ultimately, what you need to know is that deep dental cleanings can be helpful if you suffer from gum disease or gingivitis. Here’s what to know about getting dental deep cleaning, and how it compares to standard dental cleanings.

What happens during a standard dental cleaning?

During a standard dental cleaning, the dental professional will use tools to remove plaque from your teeth. During the cleaning, you’ll also get a physical examination, your teeth will get cleaned with a gritty type of toothpaste, and you’ll be flossed.

Your dental professional may give you a fluoride treatment, and may also take X-rays of your teeth. The entire procedure happens over the course of one dental appointment.

What happens during a dental deep cleaning?

During a dental deep cleaning, your dental professional will use scaling and planing to remove bacteria from the roots of the teeth beneath the gum line. Deep cleaning helps remove bacteria from the teeth beneath the gum line, which can prevent gum disease and other problems. A deep cleaning happens over the course of two dental appointments.

Who needs a dental deep cleaning?

You may need a dental deep cleaning if you have the early stages of gum disease (gingivitis) or if you have a more advanced case of gum disease (periodontitis). Most patients need a standard cleaning every six months, but only need a deep cleaning when the dentist recommends it.

If you’re noticing signs of gum disease, you may need a dental deep cleaning. Here’s what to watch for:

  • Bad breath that doesn’t go away even when you brush your teeth
  • Swollen, red, puffy gums
  • Gums that bleed
  • Loose teeth
  • Gum recession

Need a dental cleaning or deep cleaning? Call your dental provider today.

A dental deep cleaning can mean the difference between good oral hygiene and gum disease. At Evanko Dental Group of Medina, we provide dental deep cleanings in Medina, OH. Call today to make an appointment.

 

Signs You’re Grinding Your Teeth While You Sleep 

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Even though bruxism (grinding your teeth) is relatively common, a lot of patients have no idea they have a problem until the dentist recommends bite guard treatment in Medina, OH. The fact is, you may have issues with either clenching your jaws or grinding your teeth together long after you’ve fallen asleep. Therefore, the problem is one that is easy to miss. Check out the signs you may be grinding your teeth after you go to sleep for the night.

You wake up with jaw pain or headaches

Jaw pain and headaches are some of the more ambiguous symptoms of bruxism because they can easily be related to and blamed on some other issue. Bruxism causes jaw pain and headaches because of the amount of stress you put on your muscles while clenching. You may wake up feeling like you laughed a great deal the day before, or have a headache without any logical cause.

Your teeth seem to be excessively wearing

Most healthy adult teeth are not smooth; they boast ridges, points, and valleys. These formations help you chew food more effectively, but people who grind their teeth can have flatter, worn teeth. Oftentimes, molars are the first teeth to show signs of wear because these teeth have a broader contact surface between the upper and lower jaw. Naturally, if your teeth start to wear down substantially, you may notice pain in those teeth or even difficulties with chewing.

You have chipped or cracked teeth

Chipped and cracked teeth are a telltale sign of grinding your teeth if you have not sustained any level of direct dental trauma. Grinding your teeth repeatedly breaks down their structure due to the sheer force and stress. Therefore, you may find one of your teeth chipped, broken, or cracked.

Talk to a Medina Dentist for Help

If you do suspect that you are grinding your teeth in your sleep, talking to a Medina, OH dentist about the issue is extremely important. Bite guards can be used to protect your teeth while you sleep, and these are most functional and comfortable when custom-made by a skilled professional. Reach out to us at the Evanko Dental Group of Medina to schedule an appointment.

What Causes Teeth Grinding?

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Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, affects numerous people. Unfortunately, it can cause a variety of problems such as sensitive teeth, headaches, jaw pain, and more. If you are one of the many who grind your teeth during the day or at night and wonder why it’s happening and what your dentist in Medina, OH can do about it, here’s what you need to know.

Stress and Anxiety

Should you be under stress at school, work, or within your personal life, the anxiety you are feeling will likely be a primary reason why you are grinding your teeth. For some people, this habit is developed and exacerbated when they are involved in intense concentration, such as when taking a test.

Foods and Drugs

Unfortunately, if you love coffee, alcoholic drinks, or tobacco products, all of these can be causing your teeth grinding. In many instances, these things cause or worsen acid reflux in certain individuals, which is often related to nighttime teeth grinding. In some cases, people who are taking medications to treat depression report teeth grinding to be a side effect. By cutting back or eliminating some of these items from your life, your teeth grinding may disappear as well.

Treatments

2If you suffer from teeth grinding, your dentist will probably outfit you with a night guard. Resembling a retainer you may have worn years ago if you had braces, the night guard will be customized for your mouth and be worn while you sleep to prevent your teeth from being damaged. Other forms of treatment can include being prescribed muscle relaxers that help relax the jaw at night, or using stress management techniques such as biofeedback or meditation to reduce stress levels.

Address the Underlying Cause

While dentists agree these treatments can be effective, they also emphasize that patients need to address the underlying cause of their teeth grinding. Since no treatment is looked upon as a silver bullet, getting to the cause of stress, anxiety, and tension can be life-changing and put a stop to teeth grinding.

Whether you grind your teeth more during the day or night, finding out why it is happening and seeking appropriate dental treatment is important. Rather than risk tooth fractures or jaw issues, discuss your teeth grinding in detail with your dentist in Medina, OH

4 Important Questions to Ask Next Time You See the Dentist

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When you go to the dentist for a check-up in Medina, OH, that’s your opportunity to get answers to questions that you might have about your oral hygiene and dental health. It’s good to ask questions when you’re meeting with the dentist because the answers to those questions can help you improve your oral hygiene routine. Below are some useful questions you can ask your dentist the next time you see each other.

1. Is my oral hygiene routine adequate?

Most people need to brush their teeth twice a day, floss once per day, and see the dentist every six months in order to keep their teeth cleaned. If you’re not following this schedule, or if you have a condition that requires a different dental care routine, then your dentist will be the one to know.

Ask your dentist if you’re taking care of your teeth properly. Your dentist will be able to assess your routine based on the state of your dental health and make recommendations accordingly.

2. Am I at risk for any dental conditions?

Some people are at risk for dental conditions because of the state of their overall physical health. For example, pregnant women can be at risk for gingivitis. Knowing your dental hygiene risks can help you decide what you need to be doing in order to take care of your teeth.

3. When should I come in for my next appointment?

It’s typical for dental patients to go in to see the dentist every six months. However, some people need to see the dentist more often to check up on a condition or to perform a necessary dental procedure.

Some people only see the dentist once per year because their oral hygiene is overall good, and their oral hygiene routine is adequate for their needs. Your dentist can tell you when it’s time to come in next. Find out when you talk to your dentist!

4. Is there anything I can do to improve my smile?

Many dentists offer tooth whitening procedures, dental veneers and other services that can help improve the smiles of their patients. Ask your dentist in Medina, OH what you can do to improve your smile. Call Evanko Dental Group of Medina to make your appointment today.

5 of the Most Damaging Things You Do to Your Teeth (and don’t even know it)

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Patients are often surprised to learn during a general dentist appointment that they have problems with their teeth. Unfortunately, a lot of seemingly find habits and actions may put the health of your mouth at risk.

1. Brushing immediately after a meal

It can sound counterintuitive, but brushing immediately after you eat or drink may actually be bad for your smile. Acidic foods can raise the pH levels in your mouth temporarily, which means when you brush right after eating, you could be inadvertently encouraging tooth enamel to break down. As a good rule of thumb, try to wait around an hour to brush after eating.

2. Chewing on hard objects

The end of your pen, your fingernails, a metal hairpin—chewing on things can be a bit of a hard-to-break habit. However, this is one habit you really should break to protect your teeth. If you are constantly nibbling on hard objects, you can wear down the enamel of your teeth in certain spots and open up your smile to a host of problems.

3. Skipping the fluoride

Fluoride can be really valuable for your teeth. The ingredient can help remineralize the enamel of your teeth, which is important to protect your teeth from decay. If you drink only filtered water without added fluoride, don’t eat foods rich in the mineral, and don’t use dental hygiene products with fluoride, you could be putting your smile at risk.

4. Using low-quality dental hygiene products

Dental hygiene is ever-important to your oral health, but you do need to use high-quality dental hygiene products. A few pointers to remember:

  • Skip generic mouthwash that may cause more harm than good
  • Opt for toothbrushes made by recognizable manufacturers
  • Use high-quality floss or flossing tools

In general, if you look for products that have been approved by the ADA, you should be fine.

5. Chomping on sugar-ridden chewing gum

Some chewing gum can actually be good for your teeth because it helps to break down and slough away plaque. However, anything sugar-laden and especially sticky can be your oral health’s number one enemy. You are essentially keeping a wad of sugar in your mouth, which heightens levels of certain bacteria that can eat away at your tooth enamel.

Get More Tips from Your Medina Dentist

Worried about your smile? Rest assured, if you are working with a good dentist, you can negate many of the common problems with your oral health. Reach out to us at the Evanko Dental Group in Medina if you need to schedule a preventive dental appointment.

Should I Be Nervous About a Root Canal?

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This common question stems largely from general fears of dentistry. The instruments, equipment, and anesthetic can all be triggers for people, even if they’re going in for little more than routine cleaning. If you’re nervous about a root canal, we’ll look at whether these fears are warranted.

The Honest Truth

We’ll start with the less convenient facet of these procedures: the truth is that there is such a thing as painful root canals. The exact details as to why will differ depending on the person who had the procedure done. In some cases, it will be due to an unavoidable problem, such as the configuration of the pulp or underlying damage. Certain health conditions can exacerbate pain or mask its source. In others, it may be because the dentist made an error during the root canal.

The Upside

The good news is that painful root canals are not the norm. In the past, root canals were intense procedures, ones that might have been put off for months or even years at the person’s request. However bad their tooth pain was, the alternative might have seemed far worse.

Thankfully, root canals are so ubiquitous that they left the dental industry little choice but to get better at them. With every new improvement came less pain, faster recovery periods, and happier patients.

So why are there still people who are worried? There’s still a lot of residual fear that can be passed down from generation to generation. Also, as mentioned, there is such a thing as root canals that go awry.

What You Can Do

If you want to allay your nerves, the best thing you can do is look for a dentist who is skilled in root canals. A professional who specializes can go a long way to discovering problems when you’re in the chair rather than after you’ve left the parking lot.

Doing your homework can have everything to do with the outcome of your procedure. From the customer reviews to education to experience, these things can all matter when it comes to the results. And while there’s no such thing as perfection, you can get pretty close when you work with a dentist who knows the ins and outs of root canals.