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Chocolate and oral health. Is chocolate bad or good for your teeth?
Some Studies Say Chocolate is Beneficial for Your Teeth. But is Chocolate Really Good for Your Teeth? The dental benefits of chocolate have been a topic of interest for many, especially those with a sweet tooth. This article explores the various studies and claims regarding chocolate’s effects on dental health and examines if chocolate is indeed good for your teeth. Unraveling the Chocolate Mystery Chocolate, specifically dark chocolate, has been praised for its potential health benefits due to its high levels of antioxidants. However, when it comes to dental health, the jury is still out. Let’s take a deeper dive into the components of chocolate and their implications for oral…
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Silver Diamine Fluoride for Caries Management
Key Facts Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is an FDA-approved topical medication used to treat tooth sensitivity with off-label use to treat dental caries It is a colorless liquid containing silver particles, water, fluoride, and ammonia SDF has been used for several decades in other countries and gained attention in the United States as an effective treatment for caries in recent years This non-invasive treatment can be particularly beneficial for children, elderly patients, and individuals with special needs One of the side effects of SDF is that it can stain carious lesions black Off-label use warning as of 2023 Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) currently has FDA clearance as a desensitizing agent…
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Stitches in my mouth are bothering me – 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! Oral surgery is sometimes necessary for various dental procedures, and stitches or sutures are often used to facilitate the healing process. However, stitches can sometimes cause discomfort. This guide aims to provide comprehensive information on how to manage and alleviate discomfort caused by stitches after oral surgery. Stitches in Oral Surgery Purpose of Stitches Stitches are used to close wounds or incisions, helping to control bleeding, promote healing, and reduce the risk of infection. In oral…
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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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Cloverleaf Tongue and Tongue Twisting
Tongue twisting, including the cloverleaf tongue, is a fascinating and curious phenomenon. Some people can perform elaborate shapes and rolls with their tongues, while others can’t. This guide covers different types of tongue-twisting, the genetics behind tongue rolling, and focuses on the cloverleaf tongue. Types of Tongue-Twisting Tongue Folding: Tongue folding involves folding the tongue vertically. The person can simply fold their tongue backwards or forwards without any rolls or complex shapes. Tongue Rolling: This is one of the most common types of tongue-twisting. In tongue rolling, the edges of the tongue are rolled up to form a tube shape. Some individuals can do this effortlessly, while others struggle or…
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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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How Long Do Tonsil Stones Last?
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! Tonsil stones, also known as tonsilloliths, are a common oral health issue. They are small, off-white deposits that can build up in the craters on the tonsils and are often mistaken for a throat infection. These calcified deposits can cause discomfort and are often associated with bad breath. This article offers an in-depth overview of tonsil stones, exploring what they are, the symptoms, causes, and how long they can last. We will also discuss prevention and…
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Why Am I Coughing After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
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 wisdom teeth removed is a common oral surgery, but the post-operative symptoms can be concerning for many patients. Among these symptoms, coughing is not uncommon. This article will provide a detailed insight into why coughing can occur after wisdom teeth removal and what steps should be taken if you experience this symptom. What is Wisdom Teeth Removal? Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars that usually emerge in late…
