There are several underlying causes of teeth grinding (bruxism), a common problem among children. A morning headache is often the first symptom.

Key takeaways:

- Children who are stressed, anxious, hyperactive or have a misaligned bite are more prone to bruxism.
- While the underlying cause is being ascertained your dentist can provide a custom mouthguard for your child to wear at night to protect their teeth.
- These underlying conditions can be treated with stress management, medication or orthodontic treatment.
"Without knowing what’s causing the problem, it can be difficult to implement a long-term solution. Your child’s dentist or paediatrician can help you uncover the root cause of your child’s teeth grinding."
Read the full story here: https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/how-to-prevent-and-treat-your-childs-teeth-grinding/

You want a bright white smile, but also need dental implants or dentures. Here's how to do it right.
Main takeaways:
- It's best to undergo whitening before getting an implant installed, so the dentist can match your crown to your natural teeth while they are at their best.
- The crown (cap) on an implant is resistant to staining, so it won’t require whitening.
- Dentures are created from a different material that does stain, but won’t benefit from a whitening procedure.
- Remove stains from dentures daily through brushing and flossing.
- It is possible to have your dentures professionally polished, but if the colour changes too much, you may want to have them replaced.
Consult your dentist about whitening prior to dental implants.
Read more here:
https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/can-you-get-professional-teeth-whitening-if-you-have-dental-implants-or-dentures/

When your child starts to lose their baby teeth you should not try and intervene to pull out any loose teeth. Your child’s dentist will let you know if intervention is needed during a regular check-up.

Key takeaways:

- By pulling out a loose tooth you could cause your child pain, bleeding or possibly infection.
- Unless advised otherwise by a dentist leave loose baby teeth to come out naturally.
- Regular dentist appointments can help ensure proper development of your child’s teeth.
"Children begin to lose their teeth beginning around age six and will continue until all their primary teeth have been replaced with adult teeth."
Read the full story here
https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/can-you-pull-your-childs-loose-teeth-or-should-they-fall-out-naturally/

When the teeth and gums are in good condition it is unlikely that bad breath will be a problem. However, certain foods can cause this embarrassing condition. Prime culprits in causing bad breath to be avoided before any social gathering include:
- Onions
- Garlic
- Strongly flavoured snacks
The enzymes and compounds in these, and similar, foods are absorbed into the bloodstream and travel to the lungs “where you breathe them out” with the accompanying odours.
Persistent bad breath should be investigated by a dentist as it may be due to gum disease. Other possible causes of bad breath are outlined in the article at https://www.modernghana.com/news/895255/bad-breath-and-what-to-do.html

During the menopause hormonal changes can result in several side effects, including ones affecting your oral health: 

- Some women experience a dry mouth which can lead to sensitive teeth and tooth decay.
- An increased risk of osteoporosis means there is also a risk of loose teeth and tooth loss.
- Speak to your dentist if you are concerned about your oral health during the menopause.
"You can keep your teeth and gums healthy as you transition into menopause by visiting your dentist to take the best possible care of your smile!"
Read the full story here: https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/can-menopause-impact-dental-health/

The choice of foods we eat is linked to the overall health of our teeth and gums. Good nutrition is key for good oral health, which in turn affects good health overall.

Key takeaways:

- Water is the best drink choice as it does not contain sugar and helps wash away trapped food particles.
- Snacking on sugary snacks (including dried fruit) feeds the germs which cause cavities.
- Dairy products contain calcium, and along with vegetables and whole grains are good for the teeth.
- You may think items such as orange juice would be recommended by your dentist, but in fact they are high in natural sugar.
"Constant snacking and drinking throughout the day, even on healthy foods and drinks, will greatly increase your risk of cavities."
Read the full story here
https://healthminute.org/2018/11/5-ways-to-keep-your-teeth-cavity-free/

Never ignore a jaw ache or tooth pain as you might have an abscess. An abscess can be caused by an infection in a tooth or indicate the presence of gum disease.
Consult a dentist before the situation is allowed to deteriorate. In most cases treating an abscess is straightforward. Left unattended, there can be serious consequences which may require:
- Root canal therapy
- A new crown
- Tooth extraction
Removing a tooth is a last resort as this can lead to “loss of jaw bone and shifting teeth” which impacts on dental health. Read more about the consequences of a dental abscess at https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/what-is-a-dental-abscess-and-how-is-it-treated/

Jaw ache remains a common issue for many people first thing in the morning. It is a condition you do not have to put up with and you should consult your dentist for advice on treatment.

Key takeaways:

- Teeth grinding, gum disease, a cavities or abscess are dental issues which can lead to jaw ache.
- Your dentist may suggest wearing a mouthguard while asleep to protect against teeth grinding.
- Acupuncture and hypnosis are further methods which can help alleviate teeth grinding.
"Jaw ache is a common complaint and can cause a multitude of radiating side effects including muscle tension, ear ache and even migraines."
Don’t ignore jaw ache as this can result in expensive complications. Discuss it with your dentist.
Read the full story here
https://www.glamour.co.za/wellness/fitness-exercise/this-is-why-you-should-never-ignore-jaw-ache-17536395

It now seems as if taking care of our teeth and gums is more important than ever before. You should you see your dentist for regular cleanings as there a possible link between gum health and high blood pressure.
- Individuals with gum disease are not as likely to benefit from blood pressure medications.
- Anyone suffering from gum disease should see a dentist regularly for cleanings.
- Regular dental cleanings and good hygiene help prevent gum disease.
"Those with gum disease were...20 percent less likely to achieve healthy blood pressure targets."
Learn more about the possible risks here:
https://consumer.healthday.com/dental-and-oral-information-9/misc-dental-problem-news-174/gum-disease-may-worsen-blood-pressure-problems-738756.html

When the gums pull back and expose tooth roots it can cause sensitivity and possible tooth loss. There are several situations that can result in receding gums. Luckily, all of these can easily be treated by your dentist:
- Poor dental hygiene can result in gum disease as bacteria builds up causing inflammation in the gums.
- Smoking can cause gum recession as the toxins damage gum tissue.
- People who grind their teeth or brush too hard can also damage the gums.
"It’s important to invest in a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush your teeth gently yet thoroughly in order to effectively remove plaque at the gum line and keep your gum tissue safe and healthy."
Read the full story here: https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/what-are-the-causes-of-a-receding-gum-line/