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Plaque vs. Tartar: What’s The Difference?
This article is a part of our Q&A series in which we give detailed answers to our readers' questions. Have a question? Don't hesitate and send it to us to get a detailed answer! Dental hygiene is at the forefront of personal care, yet there’s often confusion surrounding certain terms and concepts. Two such commonly misconstrued terms are plaque and tartar. While they are interrelated, they represent different stages in the process of tooth decay and require distinct care and treatment. This article aims to shed light on these two terms by providing an in-depth examination of what they are and how they form. What Is Plaque? Plaque is a…
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Abscessed Tooth Extraction (Pulling Tooth with Abscess)
Key Facts An abscessed tooth is characterized by a pus-filled pocket caused by a bacterial infection in different regions of the tooth or gum The condition can manifest in various forms, such as periapical abscess (at the tip of the root) or periodontal abscess (in the gums at the side of a tooth root) Symptoms of an abscessed tooth include severe pain, sensitivity to hot and cold, swelling, a foul taste in the mouth, and fever Left untreated, an abscessed tooth can lead to the spread of infection, which can have serious health repercussions Extracting an abscessed tooth without professional supervision can exacerbate the condition and poses significant health risks…
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Functional Dentistry – What is it?
Key Facts Functional dentistry is an approach to dental care that focuses on treating oral health as an integral part of overall health It looks at the underlying causes of dental problems rather than just treating the symptoms Functional dentistry takes into account how oral health impacts and is impacted by other systems in the body It employs a patient-centered approach, tailoring treatment plans according to individual needs and circumstances Functional dentistry often incorporates a holistic approach, considering lifestyle, diet, and environmental factors It seeks to use the least invasive and most natural treatments wherever possible This approach can help in the prevention and treatment of dental issues and also…
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I Can’t Brush Teeth Because of Sore Throat – What Should I do?
This article is a part of our Q&A series in which we give detailed answers to our readers' questions. Have a question? Don't hesitate and send it to us to get a detailed answer! Maintaining oral hygiene is essential for overall health. Not brushing teeth may seem like a minor oversight, but it can lead to various dental and health problems, including a sore throat. This guide offers comprehensive insights into how neglecting oral hygiene by not brushing teeth can cause a sore throat, and what steps can be taken to prevent this. Your Oral Microbiome The mouth is home to countless bacteria, some beneficial and some harmful. Brushing teeth…
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Gum Swollen Around One Tooth – What Should I do?
This article is a part of our Q&A series in which we give detailed answers to our readers' questions. Have a question? Don't hesitate and send it to us to get a detailed answer! Gum swelling around a single tooth can be bothersome and sometimes alarming. Understanding the potential causes and knowing how to properly manage and treat this condition are essential for maintaining good oral health. This guide provides an in-depth look at the reasons behind gum swelling around one tooth and offers practical advice on dealing with this dental issue. What is Gum Swelling? Gum swelling, or gingival swelling, is an enlargement or inflammation of the gum tissue.…
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Waking Up with a Black Tongue – What Causes It?
This article is a part of our Q&A series in which we give detailed answers to our readers' questions. Have a question? Don't hesitate and send it to us to get a detailed answer! Waking up with a black tongue can be alarming. Understanding what causes this phenomenon and how to address it is crucial. In this guide, we will explore the possible causes of waking up with a black tongue, preventative measures, and treatment options. The Black Tongue Phenomenon Having a black tongue, medically known as black hairy tongue or lingua villosa, refers to a condition where the tongue appears black and sometimes hairy. It is usually harmless but…
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Tooth Cracked in Half With No Pain – What Should I Do?
This article is a part of our Q&A series in which we give detailed answers to our readers' questions. Have a question? Don't hesitate and send it to us to get a detailed answer! Having a tooth cracked in half can be a concerning situation, especially if you are unaware of how to address the issue. Surprisingly, it’s possible to experience no pain even if a tooth cracks, which can sometimes cause individuals to underestimate the seriousness of the situation. This guide aims to provide you with comprehensive information on handling a tooth cracked in half without pain. Cracked Tooth – What Does It Mean? When a tooth is cracked…
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How Long Until a Tooth Infection Kills You?
This article is a part of our Q&A series in which we give detailed answers to our readers' questions. Have a question? Don't hesitate and send it to us to get a detailed answer! Dental infections can seem minor and innocuous, but if left untreated, they can escalate into life-threatening situations. This article aims to raise awareness of the seriousness of tooth infections and their potential to be fatal, as well as the importance of timely dental care. What are Tooth Infections? Tooth infections, often referred to as abscesses, are pockets of pus caused by bacterial infections in different parts of the tooth. They can occur at the root tip…
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Why Are Teeth Cracking?
This article is a part of our Q&A series in which we give detailed answers to our readers' questions. Have a question? Don't hesitate and send it to us to get a detailed answer! Experiencing cracks or breaks in one’s teeth is a common dental concern. This Q&A answer aims to shed light on the possible reasons behind teeth cracking or breaking off and the measures one can take to address and prevent these issues. Tooth Cracks and Breaks Tooth cracks and breaks range from minor chipping of the enamel to severe fractures that expose the tooth’s inner layers. Such damage can not only compromise the structural integrity of the…
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Fastest Way to Dry Up a Cold Sore – What Is It?
This article is a part of our Q&A series in which we give detailed answers to our readers' questions. Have a question? Don't hesitate and send it to us to get a detailed answer! Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are small, fluid-filled blisters that appear around the mouth, often in clusters. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and can be painful and unsightly. The blisters usually break open, leak a clear fluid, and then crust over before they begin to disappear. This Q&A answer provides information on the fastest ways to dry up a cold sore, to alleviate pain and shorten the healing time. What…