HealthyLife Articles

Tag: Dental & Mouth

Broken Or Knocked-Out Tooth

Dental & Mouth Concerns

Signs & Symptoms

* Loss of a tooth or part of a tooth.

* Nicked or chipped tooth or teeth.

Causes

An injury or a strain on a tooth, such as from biting on a hard object can cause a broken, knocked-out, or chipped tooth.

Treatment

When a tooth gets knocked out, go to the dentist as soon as possible. Keep the tooth moist until you get to the dentist. Follow up treatment is also needed.

Questions to Ask

Self-Care / Prevention

For a Knocked-Out Tooth

* If you find the tooth, pick it up by the crown. Avoid contact with the root.

* Rinse off the rest of the tooth with clear water. Do not scrub the tooth or remove any tissue that is attached to the tooth.

* If possible (and if you’re alert), gently put the tooth back in its socket or hold it under your tongue. Otherwise, put the tooth in a glass of milk, cool salt water, or a wet cloth. Don’t let the tooth dry out.

* If the gum is bleeding, hold a gauze pad or a clean tissue tightly in place over the wound.

* Try to get to a dentist within 30 minutes of the accident. If the dentist is not available, go to a hospital emergency department. Take the tooth with you.

For a Broken Tooth

* To reduce swelling, apply a cold compress to the area.

* Save any broken tooth fragments. Put them in a wet cloth or milk. Take them to the dentist.

To Protect Teeth From Damage and Injury

* Don’t chew on ice, pens, pencils, etc.

* Don’t use your teeth to pry things open.

* If you smoke a pipe, don’t bite down on the stem.

* If you grind your teeth at night, ask your dentist if you should be fitted or a bite plate.

* If you play contact sports like football or hockey, wear a protective mouthguard. Mouthguards may also be useful for noncontact sports, such as gymnastics. Discuss the need of using a mouthguard with your dentist.

* Always wear a seat belt when riding in a car.

* Don’t suck on lemons or chew aspirin or vitamin C tablets. Acids in these wear away tooth enamel.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Toothaches

Dental & Mouth Concerns

Signs & Symptoms

* Pain in or around a tooth that throbs or occurs with a fever and/or general ill feeling. Tooth pain occurs after you eat or drink or have something hot, cold, or sweet.

* Gums are red, swollen, and/or bleed.

* Earache and/or swollen glands on one side of the face or neck.

Causes

* A food particle, such as a popcorn hull, gets stuck between the gum and a tooth.

* Tooth grinding (bruxism). This can wear down teeth and cause cracks in them.

* A cavity or infection is beneath or around the gum of a tooth.

* Tooth abscess. This is swelling and/or infection in the bone and/or the tooth’s canals.

* Gum (periodontal) disease.

* Impacted teeth. Teeth may not fully erupt or can grow at odd angles.

* Temporary pain from recent dental work.

* TMJ.

* An injury to a tooth.

* A symptom of a sinus infection.

* A symptom of angina and a heart attack.

Treatment

Emergency care is needed for a heart attack. A dentist or doctor can diagnose and prescribe proper treatment for other problems.

Questions to Ask

Self-Care / Prevention

To Treat Tooth Pain Until You See the Dentist

* Gargle with warm salt water every hour. Hold an ice pack on the jaw. Don’t drink hot or cold liquids. Avoid sweets, soft drinks, and hot or spicy foods. It may be best not to eat at all until you see your dentist.

* Gently floss around the tooth to remove food particles that could be between the teeth.

* Take an over-the-counter pain reliever. Don’t place a crushed aspirin on the tooth, though. Aspirin burns the gums and destroys tooth enamel.

* For a cavity, pack it with a piece of sterile cotton soaked in oil of cloves. You can get this at a drug store.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Canker Sores

Dental & Mouth Concerns

Canker sores are small, round mouth sores in the lining of the mouth or on the tongue, gums, or lips. You can have one canker sore or a group of them.

Signs & Symptoms

* A burning or tingling feeling before the sore appears

* Red-rimmed, shallow sores in the mouth

* Discomfort when you eat and talk

Causes, Risk Factors & Care

Canker sores may be caused by any tear in the mouth’s lining, from an uneven tooth, rough tooth brushing, a burn from a hot drink, etc. Vitamin/mineral deficiencies, emotional stress, and family traits may also trigger canker sores.

Canker sores heal within 1 to 2 weeks. Self-care can help with symptoms and speed up healing. If needed, a mouthwash with tetracycline and/or an oral paste (amelxanox) can be prescribed.

Self-Care / Prevention

To Relieve Pain:

* Mix 1/2 cup salt in 1 cup of warm water. Rinse the mouth with an ounce of this mixture 4 times a day. Don’t swallow the water.

* Put ice on the canker sore or suck on a frozen popsicle.

* Avoid spicy foods and acidic drinks, like citrus juices.

* Use over-the-counter products, like Anbesol, Blistex, and aloe vera gel.

* Swish Mylanta or milk of magnesia around the mouth to coat the sore. Then spit the medicine out.

* Put the gel from a vitamin E capsule on the sore several times a day.

* Take an over-the-counter pain medicine.

Prevention

* Avoid things that irritate the mouth, such as hot drinks and sharp objects.

* Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and a toothpaste without sodium lauryl sulfate. Don’t brush too hard.

* Take a daily vitamin/mineral supplement as advised by your doctor.

Medical Care

Contact Doctor When:

* You have any of these problems with the canker sore:

– Fever and/or swollen glands

– Severe pain

– A sore on the roof of the mouth or white spots in the mouth that do not heal in 1 to 2 weeks

* A canker sore disturbs your sleep or does not allow you to eat.

* A canker sore appears only after you start a new medicine.

* A canker sore has not healed after 3 weeks.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
When To Consider Crowns

Dental & Mouth Concerns

Crowns can restore teeth that are broken, chipped, missing, or damaged by decay or disease. A crown is a tooth-shaped porcelain cap that fits over the natural tooth. Crowns improve your appearance, but they also protect your teeth and prolong their useful life.

Ask your dentist about crowns if you have any of the following dental problems.

* Badly decayed and damaged teeth.

* Stained, chipped, or cracked teeth.

* Noticeable spaces or gaps between teeth.

* Teeth loosened by periodontal (gum) disease.

* Teeth that have undergone root canal therapy.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Cold Sores

Dental & Mouth Concerns

Cold sores appear on or near the lips. They are painful and unpleasant. Nearly 1 in 3 people will have them. Cold sores are also called fever blisters.

Signs & Symptoms

* Tingling feeling on or near the lips for 36 to 48 hours before the sore appears

* Itching at the site (early sign)

* Small, red blisters with pus-filled centers

* Blisters form a yellow crust that lasts about 10 days

* One sore or a cluster of sores

Causes, Risk Factors & Care

Cold sores are caused by the herpes sim- plex virus (HSV), either HSV-1 (this is most often the cause) or HSV-2 (the usual cause of genital herpes). The virus lies dormant in the body and can return. A fever, cold, stress, cold or windy weather, and strong sun exposure are triggers for outbreaks.

Cold sores are very contagious, especially when the blisters rupture and weep.

Cold sores are treated with self-care and antiviral medications, such as acyclovir and penciclovir. Prompt treatment may reduce the discomfort.

Self-Care / Prevention

* Keep the sore clean and dry.

* Apply antiviral medication, if prescribed, to the affected area at the first sign of a cold sore.

* Try an over-the-counter treatment, such as Abreva antiviral cream, Campho-Phenique, Blistex, or make a paste with cornstarch and water. Dab some on the sore with a cotton swab.

* Dab aloe vera or petroleum jelly on the sore. Use a cotton swab.

* Apply ice to the sore or suck on a frozen popsicle.

* Take an over-the-counter medicine for pain.

* Learn to relax. Meditate, practice yoga, etc. Learn to deal with stress, too.

* Avoid foods that are sour, spicy, or acidic. These may irritate the sores.

* Take vitamin C and/or zinc supplements, as directed by your doctor.

* Apply cool compresses when the sores have crusted over.

* Try not to worry or be too self-conscious. This only makes the situation worse.

Prevention

To avoid getting or spreading cold sores:

* Don’t share drinking glasses, towels, or cooking utensils.

* Don’t touch cold sores with your fingers. If you do touch the cold sores, do not touch your eyes. This could cause a serious eye infection.

* Wash your hands often.

* Avoid kissing or direct skin contact with the sores. This includes oral sex. The virus that causes cold sores can cause genital herpes, too.

* When in the sun, wear a hat and use a sunblock with a sun-protective factor (SPF) of 15 or more on the lips.

* Use a lip balm on cold or windy days.

* Ask your doctor about a prescribed antiviral medicine to take or apply when you feel a cold sore coming on.

* Try to figure out what triggers the sores. Once you identify a trigger, do what you can to avoid it.

* Get regular exercise.

Medical Care

Contact Doctor When:

* You have eye pain with the cold sore. Pain from the sore limits normal activity.

* The cold sore has lasted longer than 2 weeks.

* Cold sores appear 4 or more times a year.

* Cold sores appeared after you started a new medicine or are present while taking steroid medicines.

* Eczema

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
10 Dental Problems And What To Do About Them

SELF-CARE CORNER

1.Bad breath:For fresh breath, brush twice a day, floss daily, drink plenty of water, see your dentist regularly, and don’t smoke. If bad breath persists, talk to your dentist or doctor.

2.Tooth decay:When cavities are left untreated, they can get worse and lead to infections and loss of teeth. Get cavities filled quickly to prevent more extensive dental work and serious health problems.

3.Gum disease:Without treatment, gum disease gets worse and can lead to tooth loss. Symptoms include bleeding, swollen, tender, and red gums, but it often has no signs in the early stages.

4.Stained teeth:Some medications, foods, and drinks can yellow or discolor teeth. Many dentists offer whitening treatments that can help.

5.Mouth sores:A salt water rinse can help with canker sores or irritation from braces or other dental appliances. But, if sores last a week or more, your dentist should take a look.

6.Tooth sensitivity:Special toothpaste or dental procedures, such as crowns, can help relieve sensitivity to hot or cold. Look for the ADA (American Dental Association) seal of acceptance on products before buying.

7.Enamel erosion:Acidic foods and drinks can wear away at the tooth’s protective enamel over time. This can lead to tooth sensitivity and discoloration. Drinking water and milk instead of soda can help avoid this problem.

8.Wisdom teeth:Third molars, or wisdom teeth, often need to be removed during the teen or young adult years. If the jaw doesn’t have enough space for them, they can crowd or damage the other teeth.

9.Oral cancer:Cancer of the mouth, lips or gums affects about 50,000 Americans every year. Symptoms may include sores, patches, lumps, or pain in the mouth. If you notice any of these signs, contact your dentist or doctor.

10.Teeth grinding:Teeth grinding can lead to cracks and damage to the teeth enamel. A special guard made by your dentist can help protect your teeth. Beware of mouth guards sold over the counter as they can fit improperly and become a choking hazard when you sleep.

Even if you don’t have any tooth pain or other symptoms, it’s important to see your dentist every six months. Regular checkups with your dentist can prevent or treat these problems so you can keep a healthy, bright smile for life.

Sources: American Dental Association, Oral Health Foundation

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Ways To Relieve Dental Anxiety

Dental & Mouth Concerns

If you dread going to the dentist, ask about anxiety-reducing techniques you can use to help stay calm and relaxed. Some effective strategies follow.

* Tell your dentist how you feel. Some dentists are trained in helping anxious patients overcome fear of dental procedures.

* Ask if you can listen to soothing music or relaxation CDs played on a stereo headset. Ask if the dentist offers a hand-held device that allows you to press a button to stop the dentist’s drill.

* If your dentist is skilled at hypnosis, consider being hypnotized.

* If your anxiety is more than you can handle, see a psychotherapist who specializes in treating dental anxiety and other phobias.

Have a routine cleaning and checkup every six months. Preventive care will minimize the need for more painful and lengthy treatment.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Avoid Gum Disease With These Tips

SELF-CARE CORNER

Are you wondering if “a little blood” on your toothbrush is a reason to be concerned? It could indicate the early stages of gum disease, which can lead to serious dental problems later. Almost half of adults over age 30 have gum disease. Plus, 70 percent of people over age 65 have it, too.

The good news is, you can take steps now to prevent it from getting worse. This could save you from tooth loss or gum problems.

What causes gum disease?

Gum disease (“periodontitis”) happens when plaque-a sticky film of bacteria-builds up on teeth and hardens. At first, this can cause gums that look red, swollen or that bleed (“gingivitis”). As it gets worse, the gums can pull away from the teeth. This can cause infections in the mouth. The infection can lead to bone loss in the mouth and eventually, tooth loss. Gum disease may also be linked to other health problems, including diabetes and heart disease.

Keep gums healthy

A few tips can help you avoid gum disease and keep your smile feeling and looking great for years to come:

* Brush twice a day. Brush with fluoride toothpaste for at least 2 minutes each time and get all surfaces and sides of teeth. Also brush the tongue. Be sure you replace your toothbrush at least every six months, or sooner if it shows signs of wear or fraying.

* Floss once a day. Plaque hides between teeth, where the brush can’t reach. Remove it each day with floss and you can avoid plaque buildup that hardens and turns to tartar, which can only be removed by a dentist.

* Don’t smoke. More than 60 percent of smokers have gum disease. This is one of the many reasons quitting is important for your health.

* See your dentist every six months. A dentist can remove any plaque or tartar and will check the health of your gums. They can work with you to reverse gum disease in the early stages.

* Ask about mouthwash. Some mouthwashes can help reduce plaque and tooth decay. Those at higher risk for gum disease may wish to talk to their dentist about the best options.

If your gums look red or tend to bleed, see your dentist. Early treatment can save your gums and teeth. Even if they are in great shape, regular visits to the dentist will help you keep them that way. Your smile will thank you!

Sources: National Institutes of Health, American Academy of Periodontology

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Dental Hygiene

Dental & Mouth Concerns

Taking care of your teeth and gums helps your teeth last a lifetime.

Brush and floss your teeth twice a day. Get a dental exam once or twice a year. If you have not seen a dentist in over a year, schedule a dental exam today.

Dental problems affect more than your teeth and gums. Gum (periodontal) disease and other mouth infections may increase the risk for pneumonia, heart disease, and diabetes.

Let your dentist know if you have tooth pain, red or swollen gums, bad breath that doesn’t go away or any other dental problem.

Change toothbrushes at least every 3 to 4 months; sooner if the bristles are frayed.

Rinse your toothbrush after each use to remove debris and leftover toothpaste. Store toothbrushes upright in a holder far enough apart that bristles don’t touch.

Find out more from the American Dental Association atada.org.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Give Cold Sores The Cold Shoulder

SELF-CARE CORNER

Cold sores – those bothersome blisters that appear around the mouth – can be painful and embarrassing. Cold sores are spread by a virus, but not the cold virus.

Cold sores happen when a person gets infected with the herpes simplex virus (HSV). This is why cold sores may also be called “oral herpes.” HSV is very contagious. It can be easily spread person to person by:

* Sharing drinks or utensils

* Kissing

* Touching a cold sore or infected person’s face, and then touching your face

* Touching an infected person’s face and then touching someone else (this is how many babies get HSV)

* Sharing personal items like razors or towels

* Intimate or sexual contact

* Touching the same object that was touched by a person with a cold sore.

The type of HSV that causes cold sores is usually HSV type 1. Another type of HSV, known as HSV type 2, is most often spread through sexual contact. HSV type 2 is the virus that usually causes genital herpes. But, either type of HSV can cause cold sores or genital herpes.

What triggers cold sores?

Once you get HSV, there is no cure. It stays in the body forever and it may cause repeated outbreaks of cold sores. Certain things may trigger a cold sore outbreak. Things that bring down the body’s defenses may allow the virus to become active and produce a cold sore again. Many people get cold sores due to:

* Stress

* Hormone changes such as menstruation or pregnancy

* Illnesses, like the flu or a cold

* Sun exposure

* Certain foods

Don’t spread cold sores!

Even if you stay healthy and avoid stress, there is no way to prevent all cold sore outbreaks. So, it’s best to try and avoid spreading cold sores and HSV to others.

The best way to avoid spreading cold sores is to wash your hands frequently and avoid contact that could spread the sore. If you feel a cold sore coming on, don’t share drinks and other items listed in this article. Avoid touching your mouth and don’t touch people’s faces or kiss people, especially babies, children and people with weakened immune systems.

Treating cold sores

If you get cold sores frequently, ask your doctor about medicines that can help. Some antiviral medicines can reduce the number of outbreaks. They also help lower the chance of spreading HSV to others.

Some over-the-counter medicines can also help speed up the healing time of a sore, but they won’t prevent outbreaks or stop the spread of HSV. Ask your doctor if one of these treatments might work for you.

Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institutes of Health

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026