Bleeding Gums

Gingivitis is one of the most common oral health ailments, but that doesn’t mean people should have to endure it. If you see blood in the sink when you spit out your toothpaste, you’re not alone, but help is available. This week’s blog is devoted to the causes of bleeding gums.

Bacteria are part of a healthy oral ecosystem, but problems occur when they grow out of control. This can happen when there is a lot of food debris in the gum pockets. Bacteria would rapidly multiply, and as they eat, they would produce acid. The acid would stick to the plaque and tartar around the tooth root, irritating the gum tissue it comes in contact with. This causes gingivitis—gum inflammation—which is characterized by redness and bleeding.

Regular brushing can reduce bacterial growth, although it’s important to only use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Hard-bristled toothbrushes can bruise the gum tissue, worsening the problem. Pregnant women frequently experience gum bleeding due to hormonal changes, as do people on blood thinner medications. Smoking and dry mouth also create situations in which bacterial growth is more likely. It is especially important for these patients to maintain regular appointments for deep cleanings.

Dr. Dennis Morehart, Master of the Academy of General Dentistry, operates Enid Dental Care at 2411 Heritage Trail, Ste #4, Enid, Oklahoma, 73703. To schedule an appointment, call 580-237-2213 or visit EnidDentalCare.com and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Childhood Halitosis

At Enid Dental Care, Dr. Morehart and his dedicated staff provide assistance to patients of all ages suffering from halitosis. Children commonly have bad breath because they haven’t yet learned to maintain vigorous oral hygiene, but there may be another problem, or they may have been taught incorrectly.

The most common reason for halitosis is a build-up of bacteria. These can happen on the teeth, as well as the gums and the tonsils. Mouth sores and sinus infections also provide environments for bacteria to thrive in, particularly as the nasal drip from a sinus infection provides bacteria with plenty to feed on. A foreign object stuck in a child’s nose can also trigger nasal drip. Brushing the tongue is the surest way to prevent bacteria build-up at its most common location.

Another common cause of bad breath is dry mouth. Children who breathe through their mouths and who engage in physical play without staying hydrated are at high risk of developing dry mouth, but the condition can also result from certain medications. Anxiety and ADHD are common childhood ailments for which medications often cause dry mouth or directly create bad breath.

Dr. Dennis Morehart, Master of the Academy of General Dentistry, operates Enid Dental Care at 2411 Heritage Trail, Ste #4, Enid, Oklahoma, 73703. To schedule an appointment, call 580-237-2213 or visit EnidDentalCare.com and fill out a contact sheet.

 

How Often Do You Brush?

Besides putting a damper on your social life, neglecting to brush your teeth can land you with more than just a few cavities. It could actually lead to life-threatening diseases. Keeping your teeth clean means keeping them strong and healthy, this is why Dr. Dennis Morehart makes it his goal to provide you with the best oral care achievably possible.   

It’s simple. If you don’t brush your teeth you will eventually lose them. You should clean your at home with a soft-bristled brush two or three times each day for at least two minutes. The brush that you use should comfortably fit the size and shape of your mouth, and should be replaced every few months. Brushing twice a day can potentially save you hundreds of dollars in restorative dental care in the future. In addition to forming good daily brushing habits, it is also important to have your teeth professionally cleaned.

If you need assistance with your oral hygiene routine or have questions about brushing your teeth, please give us a call. To learn more about services provided at the practice, visit www.eniddentalcare.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Dennis Morehart, DDS, in Enid, OK, call 580-237-2213.