When it comes to dental health, worn teeth can indicate a more significant issue than just a cosmetic concern. They may be a sign of stress and anxiety, which can lead to teeth grinding or clenching. If untreated, such dental problems can result in TMD, occlusal disease, or bruxism.

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD)

TMD: The temporomandibular (tem-puh-roe-man-DIB-u-lur) joint, or TMJ, acts like a sliding hinge, connecting your jawbone to your skull.

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are disorders of the jaw muscles, temporomandibular joints, and the nerves associated with chronic facial pain. Any problem that prevents the complex muscles, bones, and joints from working together in harmony may result in temporomandibular disorder. Dysfunction can lead to pain and discomfort. Jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and clicking and locking the jaw joint are some symptoms. Common treatments include medications, bite guards, and physical therapy.

Occlusal Disease

Occlusal disease is the destructive process that results from a bite in which the teeth are not correctly aligned. There can be many causes of occlusal disease, but it often can be traced to an unbalanced bite, crooked teeth, or involuntary teeth grinding/clenching. Occlusal disease is a frequently overlooked and “silent” oral disease dismissed by dentists and patients. Early signs of occlusal disease are often classified as natural aging and normal wear and tear.

However, studies have shown that Occlusal disease is the most common undiagnosed oral disease, which can be treated when diagnosed early. Occlusal diseases, like cavities and gum disease, can be treated effectively, less invasively, and less costly when diagnosed early.

Bruxism/Teeth Grinding

Bruxism or teeth grinding is when a person grinds, gnashes, or clenches their teeth excessively, often unconsciously, during the day or night. Bruxism can cause headaches, jaw pain, tooth pain, or dental problems. It can frequently improve on its own in children, while adults may require dental guards to protect their teeth.

If you experience worn and flat teeth, it is essential to seek a dentist’s advice to identify the underlying cause and prevent further damage. Early diagnosis and treatment can help you avoid severe dental problems.

Save money on your dental care with a dental insurance plan in California.

Are you tired of paying exorbitant prices for dental care? If so, a dental insurance plan in California might be your solution. Investing in dental insurance can save money on dental healthcare in the long run.

Most dental insurance plans offer free or low-cost preventive care, including basic cleaning and bite-wing X-rays. By taking advantage of these services twice a year, you can prevent more significant and more expensive dental issues from arising.

Dental insurance saves you money and provides peace of mind, knowing that your and your family’s dental health is taken care of. With various individual and family plans in California, you can find a plan that fits your budget and specific dental needs.

Please don’t wait until it’s too late to invest in your dental health. Take the first step towards affordable and comprehensive dental care by exploring your options for dental insurance in California today.

You can contact our member service line at 310-534-3444, where our team of experts will help you understand each plan’s different options and benefits. They will guide you in selecting the best plan to provide your family with the necessary coverage at a price that fits your budget.

I recently noticed that my gums have been hurting slightly and seem redder than usual. I brush twice a day and floss almost every day. They do not bleed when I am doing that, but they hurt when I do. Could I have gum disease?

Reply: Some start signs of gingivitis (gum disease) would include, but are not limited to, Swollen or puffy gums, Dusky red or dark red gums, and tender gums. I suggest visiting your dentist as soon as possible, so if you have the start of gingivitis, your dentist can treat it before it becomes a more significant issue. Consider buying dental insurance if you do not have any current insurance, as it will help keep your dental care costs more affordable.

DentalInsuranceHealthcare.com offers many dental insurance plan options. One such option is Delta Dental California. Our Delta Dental California plans let you choose from their PPO and indemnity insurance plans. They have yearly maximal limitations ranging from 1000 – 2000. Delta Dental PPO plans have an extensive list of providers. In contrast, their Indemnity plans let you go to any dental office you choose, making staying with your current dentist possible under the Delta Dental plans.

The Benefit of Having Dental Insurance

Most people don’t enjoy going to the dentist, but it’s important to maintaining good overall health. Having dental insurance can make it easier to get the care you need without breaking the bank.

First and foremost, dental insurance can help cover the cost of routine cleanings and check-ups, preventing more serious dental problems. It can also help cover the cost of more involved procedures like fillings, root canals, and crowns.

In addition to saving you money on dental care, having insurance can also give you peace of mind. You won’t have to worry as much about unexpected dental expenses, which can be a major source of stress.

If you’re considering getting dental insurance, it’s important to look at your options carefully to find a plan that works for you. DentalInsuranceHealthcare.com offers a variety of plans, including Delta Dental California, which lets you choose from PPO and indemnity plans with yearly maximums ranging from $ 1,000 to $ 3,000. To learn more about our dental insurance options, call our member services at 310-534-3444.

Question: I am 19 and looking for dental insurance. And my mom says that I should buy a Delta Dental plan since most dentists take Delta Dental. I found several Delta Dental plans online, but must determine the difference.

Answer: Depending on your state, we offer their PPOs and Indemnity dental plans. A PPO plan has a list of providers (dentists accepting that plan); however, you can still choose to go to a dentist who is not the plan’s provider. An Indemnity dental insurance option has no providers list. You go to whatever dentist you want to. Also, note that different maximum limitations range from 1000 – 2000, depending on what you may wish. There are other differences in coverages. Call our member services line at 310-534-3444. We are more than happy to go over the plans with you.

Tooth enamel erosion is a process where the hard outer layer of the teeth (the enamel) wears away and becomes thinner due to exposure to acids. Erosion can be caused by consuming acidic foods and drinks, chronic acid reflux or gastrointestinal problems, frequent vomiting, and certain medications. 

When the enamel erodes, it can lead to tooth sensitivity, discoloration, and decay. It’s important to prevent tooth enamel erosion by limiting acidic foods and drinks, practicing good oral hygiene, and seeing a dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.

You can take a few simple steps to help your teeth. Such as:  

• Brush after you eat or drink. Use a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Not at a place you can brush, but you can also have some milk or a piece of cheese after a meal to zap the acids.  
• Love gum? You are in luck. Chewing sugar-free gum with xylitol after eating to get your saliva going is another good way to stop acid damage.

How does your dentist treat tooth enamel erosion?

The treatment for tooth enamel erosion depends on the severity of the erosion. In mild cases, the dentist may recommend fluoride treatments, which can help to strengthen the enamel and reduce sensitivity. In more severe cases, the dentist may need to fill the eroded areas with filling material or provide a dental crown to protect the tooth from further damage. In cases where the erosion is caused by acid reflux or other medical conditions, the dentist may refer the patient to a specialist to treat the underlying condition. It’s important to work with your dentist to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Experts say tooth enamel erosion is on the rise, especially in children. The reason is that some say today’s kids get too many acidic drinks and sodas. Try to switch to bottled water instead of soda whenever possible. Doing this is good for your child’s teeth and their overall wellness.

How do sodas and acidic drinks cause tooth enamel erosion?

Acidic drinks and sodas contain high levels of acid that can gradually wear away the protective layer of tooth enamel over time. Enamel erosion can make teeth more sensitive and prone to decay, leading to long-term dental problems if left untreated. Children who consume these drinks regularly are particularly at risk, as their enamel is still developing and may be more susceptible to damage. Switching to bottled water or other low-acidic drinks can help prevent tooth enamel erosion and promote better dental health.

What are some tooth-friendly drinks?

Several tooth-friendly drinks can help promote dental health and prevent tooth enamel erosion. These include:

1. Water: Drinking plenty of water is one of the best things you can do for your teeth and overall health. It helps to rinse away food particles, reduce acidity in the mouth, and keep the body hydrated.
2. Milk: Milk is an excellent source of calcium and other important nutrients that help keep teeth strong and healthy. It also helps to neutralize acidity in the mouth and promote healthy saliva production.
3. Herbal tea: Herbal teas are a great alternative to sugary or acidic drinks, as they are low in sugar and antioxidants. Some herbal teas, such as green tea, may also help to promote healthy gum tissue.
4. Coconut water: Coconut water is a natural source of electrolytes and can help keep the body hydrated without the added sugar and acidity of other sports drinks.
5. Fruit juice (moderation): While many fruit juices are high in sugar and acidity, some can be a good source of vitamins and minerals, promoting dental health. Look for 100% fruit juice with no added sugars, and drink in moderation.

Remember, it’s important to limit your intake of sugary and acidic drinks, as they can contribute to tooth enamel erosion and other dental problems over time.

Over time, Bruxism, or teeth-grinding, can wear down or fracture the enamel due to constant clenching. Bruxism can also ground down the upper and lower front teeth. 

Generally, Bruxism is often worse when you sleep. That is when you cannot control it. Reducing stress may help. Some people wear a special mouthguard when going to bed. Ask your dentist if this is a problem. You can buy the guards in a drugstore or discount store, or your dentist may make you a custom model.

What can Cause Bruxism/Teeth Grinding

Bruxism or teeth grinding can be caused by various factors, such as 

• Stress and anxiety 
• Sleep disorders 
• An abnormal bite 
• Crooked or missing teeth 
• Certain medications or substances like caffeine and alcohol 
• In some cases, it can also result from an underlying medical condition such as Parkinson’s disease or gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD).

Here are some tips that may help you stop grinding your teeth:

1. Reduce stress: Since stress is one of the leading causes of Bruxism, finding ways to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga, or exercise, may help reduce teeth grinding.

2. Avoid stimulating substances: Avoiding or reducing your consumption of substances that stimulate teeth grinding, such as caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol, may also help.

3. Use a mouthguard: Wearing a mouthguard, especially at night, can help protect your teeth and prevent further damage caused by grinding. You can buy mouthguards at drugstores or have one custom-made by your dentist.

4. Practice good sleep habits: Getting enough sleep and establishing a regular sleep routine may also help reduce teeth grinding.

5. Correct dental problems: Addressing underlying dental problems, such as misaligned teeth or a bad bite, may also help reduce Bruxism.

Your saliva takes care of acids in the mouth that erode your teeth. It also helps restore tooth enamel. However, if you have a dry mouth caused by a side effect of a drug or a health condition, the acids stick around longer, causing more damage to your teeth.

Dry mouth can be an uncomfortable and even harmful condition. Here are some tips to help you treat it at home:

1. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth hydrated.
2. Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free candies to stimulate saliva production.
3. Avoid drinks that can cause dehydration, such as alcohol, coffee, and tea.
4. Use a humidifier at night to keep the air in your bedroom moist.
5. Avoid tobacco products, which can worsen dry mouth symptoms.
6. Brush and floss your teeth regularly to prevent tooth decay.
7. Consider using over-the-counter saliva substitutes or mouthwashes.

Remember, if your dry mouth persists or is caused by a medication, be sure to talk to your doctor or dentist for further treatment options.

Some health conditions can damage your tooth enamel. Enamel erosion can happen from eating disorders such as bulimia, Acid reflux, stomach problems, and other eating disorders when stomach acid enters the mouth because of frequent vomiting.

Why would your dentist need to know if you have eating and or digestive problems?

Your dentist would need to know if you have eating and/or digestive problems because some health conditions can damage your tooth enamel. Enamel erosion can occur due to frequent vomiting caused by bulimia, acid reflux, stomach problems, and other eating disorders. Your dentist may need to modify your dental treatment plan to accommodate these conditions and ensure that your dental care is tailored to your specific needs. It’s essential to inform your dentist of any health issues you may have so they can provide the best possible care for you.

When your tooth enamel is damaged, the inner layer gets exposed, and dental decay can start. Cavities are one of many problems.  Teeth with damaged tooth enamel can react to extreme heat or cold. Eating ice cream or sipping hot coffee can be painful or at least unpleasant.

What do you do if a tooth is hurting you?

If your tooth is hurting and you can not see a dentist immediately, you can try a few things at home before seeing your dentist. You can rinse your mouth with warm salt water, use over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, or apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek. However, if the pain persists or worsens, scheduling an appointment with a dentist as soon as possible is essential. The dentist can diagnose the cause of the pain and provide appropriate treatment to alleviate it.

As hard as your tooth enamel is, it can be breached. Acids from foods and bacteria eat away at the tooth enamel, causing erosion and cavities. Tooth enamel can also be chipped or cracked. Unlike bone, however, it does not grow back on its own. The damage is permanent.

Tips on Protecting Your Tooth Enamel

Want to keep your teeth healthy and strong? Here are some tips to protect your tooth enamel:

1. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
2. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles.
3. Limit your intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks.
4. Drink plenty of water to help wash away food particles and acid.
5. Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva flow, which helps neutralize acid and remineralize your teeth.
6. Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

By following these tips, you can help prevent enamel erosion and keep your teeth healthy for years to come.

Your tooth enamel might seem white, but it is clear. Light can shine through it. The layer underneath, dentin, shows through, making a tooth look light or dark. However, over time, coffee, tea, wine, cigarettes, and other substances can stain the outer layer of your teeth a dingy yellow or gray.

How to keep your teeth their whitest

There are several ways to keep your teeth looking their whitest. First and foremost, practicing good dental hygiene habits such as brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and using mouthwash can help prevent stains from building up on your teeth. Additionally, consider limiting your intake of coffee, tea, and other dark-colored beverages that can stain your teeth. Quitting smoking and other tobacco products can also help to prevent staining and keep your teeth looking white. Finally, seeing your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups can help remove surface stains and keep your teeth healthy and bright.

According to the World Health Organization, around 60 percent of all adults suffer from gum inflammation and require dental treatment. With that said, dental treatments for gums can become very costly without having some dental insurance to help reduce the cost of services. Also, it is essential to know that under most PPO plans, periodontal services fall under major dental care, which means you could wait a year or more before having benefits for this type of dental care treatment. Therefore, consider your future dental needs when buying dental insurance to protect you better.

If you have a current dentist that you wish to stay with, check if they are in the network of the dental insurance plan you are considering. If your dentist is in-network, you can sign up for that plan and continue to see your current dentist. However, if your dentist is outside the network, you may have to pay higher out-of-pocket costs or switch to a dentist in the network. It’s always a good idea to check with your dentist and the dental insurance company to ensure that you can continue to receive care from your preferred dentist while still being covered by the dental insurance plan.

If you have bleeding gums when you brush your teeth or bite into an apple, you could have a condition called periodontitis. Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease of the periodontal apparatus. Bacterial plaque attacks the bones. Over time, the tooth could loosen. Leaving the disease untreated could lead to tooth loss. Periodontitis, also known as periodontal disease or “shrinking gums,” is a source of disease for the entire body.

To some extent, highly aggressive bacteria make their way into the blood circulation, they could cause additional damage. Many medical studies highlight the interaction between periodontal disease triggers and various diseases like cardiopulmonary disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Evidence shows that the affected patient has an elevated risk of cardiovascular constriction and Alzheimer’s.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is vital to avoid periodontitis. Good oral hygiene includes:

• Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Flossing once a day.
• Using an antiseptic mouthwash.

You should also schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings at least twice a year. Also, avoid smoking and maintain a healthy diet low in sugar and high in fruits and vegetables. By taking these steps, you can help prevent periodontitis and keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Research shows vulnerable patients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) who received enhanced oral care from a dentist were at significantly less risk for developing a lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI), like ventilator-associated pneumonia, during their stay. The study was published in the November issue of Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology, the journal of the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA).

Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients often cannot manage their dental care due to their condition and the need for specialized medical attention. In these cases, the responsibility often falls on healthcare professionals to provide oral care, including brushing and cleaning the teeth and gums, to prevent the development of infections that can have serious health consequences. This is why the earlier study highlights the importance of enhanced oral care from a dentist for ICU patients, as it can significantly reduce the risk of respiratory infections.

Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide. According to studies, genetics may be a factor in cavity formation. A new study in the Journal of Clinical Investigation reveals that keratins, proteins associated with strong hair, are essential for tooth enamel integrity. Maria Morasso and colleagues at the National Institutes of Health found that individuals with mutations in hair keratin genes are prone to cavities. Tooth enamel from individuals with keratin mutations had abnormal structures that resulted in weakness. The results from this study reveal a link between hair disorders and cavity formation.

What are Keratin Proteins?

Keratins are a group of tough, fibrous proteins that are the key structural component of animal hair, nails, feathers, hooves, and horns. In humans, keratins are also found in the outermost layer of the skin, called the epidermis, and in tooth enamel. These proteins provide strength and protection to various structures in the body.

It is becoming common practice to charge for missed or broken appointments. Many dental offices will charge you a fee if you need to remember or break a dental appointment without giving advance notice. Typically, around 48 – 24 hours’ notice is required for changing or missing your dental appointment. The fee for this depends on the office, so ask the dental office what they charge for missed appointments because it is also essential to note that most insurance companies will not cover this type of charge.

Why do Dentist Charge for Missing Dental Appointments?

Dentists charge for missing appointments because when a patient misses an appointment, it creates an empty slot in the schedule that could have been used for another patient. When you do not show up for your appointment without advance notice (generally 24 hours), it means that the dentist loses potential income from that empty slot, and they still have to pay for the costs associated with running their practice, such as rent, utilities, and staff salaries. By charging for missed appointments, dentists can help ensure that their schedules stay full and that they can continue to provide quality care to their patients. Additionally, charging for missed appointments can encourage patients to be more responsible and respectful of the dentist’s time.

When searching for a new dentist, know their business hours and how they deal with dental emergencies. You want to confirm their business hours because you are more likely to create and maintain regular dental visits when the practice has hours that work around your time frame. Someone taking time off from work will tend to put off their dental care. Check if the dental office is open on a Saturday or if they provide later hours during the week. In cases of emergencies, know what their practice is. Will they take a walk-in or get you in that same day or the next in case of an emergency? Knowing this ahead of time will help you choose a dental provider that is best for you and your needs.

Additional Tips: When searching for a new dentist, consider the following:

1. Check if they accept your insurance: Find out if the dental office accepts your insurance plan and if they are in-network. Checking can help you avoid unexpected costs and save money.
2. Look for experience and qualifications: Checking the dentist’s experience can help ensure you receive quality dental care. You can also check if the dental office is affiliated with professional associations or organizations.
3. Visit the dental office: Schedule a visit before you make an appointment. This can help you get a feel for the office environment, meet the staff, and ask any questions you may have.
4. Consider the location: Choose a dental office that is conveniently located and easily accessible to you. A dental office near you can help ensure you make it to your appointments on time and avoid missing any essential dental care.

Many people think mouth rinse, and mouthwash are the same, but that would be wrong. Mouthwash: Mouthwash is used to help freshen your breath. Mouth Rinse: An antiseptic mouth rinse, however, will help reduce plaque’s bacterial load. Using a mouth rinse will help prevent plaque build-up more than just brushing and flossing alone.