5 Things You Never Learned About Oral Health

Practicing optimal levels of dental care can be a complicated endeavor that requires a lot of focus and dedication. Even as we brush, there are some things we don't know about dental care that we thought we did. Therefore, in today's article, we take you through 5 things you never knew about your oral health.

1. Toothpaste Can Give You Allergies

We all know at least someone with a particular type of allergic reaction to some bizarre things, toothpaste can be one of them. In scientific terms, these allergic reactions are known as contact dermatitis. People with sensitive teeth or gums are more susceptible to showing allergic symptoms such as

• Sores in the mouth

• Inflammations of the gums

• Peeling or itchy lips

• Sensitive tongue

• Dry skin around corners of the mouth

While toothpaste allergy is rare, it can be exhibited in some cases. Chemical compounds within the toothpaste cinnamic aldehyde and other preservatives or flavoring are known factors of contact dermatitis. In extreme cases, the allergic reaction can go as far as "burning" the inside of your mouth and cheeks.

Other dental products, such as chewing gums, mouthwash, and previous metal implants can lead to dermatitis. Gold, Mercury, Titanium, Chromium, and Cobalt implants can also lead to further allergic complications causing hypersensitivity, inflammation, and pain.

2. Brushing Your Teeth Aggressively Can Cause Damages

The more you brush, the cleaner your teeth get. While this philosophy may not be necessarily wrong, the way you practice it can be. For some, frequently brushing their teeth while pressing their toothbrush seems like an excellent way to alleviating all debris and germs. However, this proves to be fatal to your enamel health. Enamel is the substance or shell that comprises your outer teeth layer.

As you brush down heavily, the bristles within your toothbrush begin to weather the enamel. This leaves your teeth severely exposed to infections as there is nothing but a thin layer to protect your nerves. More so, it can lead to bleeding gums, pain, and sensitivity. Take care as you brush, and floss if need be.

3. Any Sign of Bleeding Gums is a Problem

The human body can be brittle and squishy; hence, any sign of blood tends to be alarming, the same applies to your teeth. Traces of blood are a sign of a myriad of health issues that require immediate assistance. According to one dentist who practices emergency dentistry Westerville, OH there are a variety of factors which can cause your gum to bleed, such as

• Flossing too hard

• Chewing tobacco

• Cuts and knicks from foods

• Brushing too hard

• Gingivitis

• Gum disease

If you experience any symptoms of bleeding gum, contact the nearest dental care facility near you. 

4. Hormonal Imbalance Can Affect Your Gums

Hormones are responsible for many vital tasks within our bodies. From hair growth, height, beard, physical developments, and yes, even teeth.

In women, their hormonal imbalance is a typical result of the menstrual cycle. The surge of the estrogen and progesterone hormones tends to increase the blood flow channeled to the gums.

This causes the gums to soften and swell up in reddish color, making it easy to rupture, especially during flossing or brushing. In some cases, chewing down on hard foods is enough to get the blood flowing.

5. Fruit Juice Can Damage Your Teeth

The wonderful benefits, which staying fit and healthy have on the body are innumerable. More so, the dedication it requires to continually exercise and maintain a proper diet of fruits and vegetables can be tough to follow through. As much as consuming fruits are right for you, you know with all the essential nutrients and vitamins they provide, drinking fruit juice may prove bad for your teeth.

When you consume fruit juice, all the sugars within the fruit are all excreted into one large sugary drink. When bacteria within your mouth get access to these sugars, they begin the process of converting it into acid. In time, this acid starts to wear down your tooth enamel and cause cavities. Furthermore, consuming more juice can only lead to an increase in acid production and plaque. This isn't to say that you should stop enjoying your favorite pina-colada or mango smoothie. All you need to do is brush soon after and maintain a healthy dental routine.

In Summary

During early childhood, we are taught primary oral care like brushing and flossing. However, there are still several things we don't know. Follow these tips to improve your oral health, and to prevent causing damage to your teeth and gums.