• Dental anesthesia is a safe and effective way to eliminate pain and reduce anxiety during dental surgery and other common procedures.
• Anyone feeling anxious about their dental visit should speak with their doctor beforehand.
• Share your medical history with them and mention any other medications you are currently taking (over-the-counter or prescription).
• Your doctor will be able to explain your different options for anesthesia or sedation and recommend the best choice for you. They will also provide instructions to follow before and after the procedure.

What is Dental Anesthesia?

Dental anesthesia helps manage pain during dental procedures and surgeries. It blocks painful sensations in specific areas of your mouth.

It can be used while you are awake or asleep, depending on the procedure, your needs, and your doctor’s recommendation.

Anesthesia is a safe way to help patients relax, feel safe, and experience less pain before, during, and after procedures are complete. Anesthesia can cause you to be in a semi-conscious or unconscious state.

Some anesthetics will have specific diet restrictions, while others may require you to arrange transportation from your dentist’s office.

3 Types of Anesthesia

There are three types of dental anesthesia: local, intravenous conscious sedation, and general. Each type is used for specific pain control purposes.

Dentists determine which anesthesia is best for each patient based on:

• The type of procedure (invasive or minor)
• Patient’s personal preference and needs
• Patient’s medical history

The following describes each type of anesthesia and their use cases.

1. Local Anesthesia

Local anesthesia is the most common type that begins working in less than 10 minutes. It is applied topically or injected into a specific location in your mouth.

Local anesthesia makes parts of your mouth numb. However, you’ll remain conscious and able to communicate throughout the procedure. The effects typically last for a few hours after the treatment.

Doctors administer it during minor dental procedures, such as:

• Cavity fillings
• Tooth extractions
• Root canal treatment
• Dental crown placement
• Scaling and root planing

Commonly used dental anesthetics include lidocaine, articaine, prilocaine, mepivacaine, and bupivacaine.

Local anesthetics are also available as prescription or over-the-counter medications. They come in gel, cream, liquid, ointment, spray, patch, and injectable forms.

2. Sedation

Sedatives and anesthesia are used for different reasons.

Sedation dentistry can help relieve nervousness and anxiety during dental work, reduce pain, and/or help keep patients from moving. Meanwhile, anesthesia is used to eliminate pain and discomfort.

Sedation can be administered in three different strengths:

1. Mild sedation — keeps you conscious, and you can respond to commands
2. Moderate sedation — puts you in a state of semi-consciousness
3. Deep sedation — makes you unaware of your surroundings and unable to respond to stimulation

A popular sedation option is nitrous oxide (laughing gas), an inhalable gas that can be administered via a nasal hood over the nose. Other examples include diazepam (Valium), midazolam (Versed), and propofol (Diprivan).

People with severe anxiety typically need a sedative before receiving an injection of anesthesia, especially if they have a fear of needles. Those with dental phobia often visit sedation dentists to receive care.

3. General Anesthesia

General anesthesia results in a temporary loss of consciousness. It is used for longer procedures or if someone cannot tolerate dental treatment under local anesthesia or sedation.

This type of anesthesia is often referred to as a medically induced coma. You will be unresponsive during the entire procedure and not feel any pain. The medication is normally inhaled or administered intravenously.

The difference between general anesthesia and IV conscious sedation is your ability to respond and breathe on your own.

General anesthesia is also typically administered to patients in a hospital setting undergoing invasive oral surgeries, including:

• Extensive bone grafts
• Corrective jaw surgery
• Multiple tooth extractions
• Oral cancer surgery
• Sleep apnea surgery
• Cosmetic dental procedures
• Cleft lip/palate Surgery

5 Benefits of Dental Anesthesia

People with anxiety or fear of injections are more likely to refuse local anesthetics during minor dental procedures.

However, after your dentist explains the benefits of anesthesia in detail, you can relax during the procedure and feel less pain.

The primary benefits of anesthesia include:

1. Can consolidate multiple appointments into one appointment
2. Prevents pain during the procedure
3. Can be used with sedation to relieve anxiety, pain, fear, and discomfort
4. Safe and effective when properly used
5. Helps make procedures easier to perform

It’s important to know that anesthesia is not a medication to put you to sleep. This means you will remain conscious during the procedure (except general anesthesia).

Side Effects of Dental Anesthesia

Dental anesthesia is a common and safe treatment.

Before administration, the dentist should be aware of your full medical history, alcohol abuse history, and any allergies to ensure complications are avoided.

Side effects are rare and are usually only felt with sedation or general anesthesia. These may include:

• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Vomiting
• Swelling (in the mouth or at the injection site)
• Sweating or shivering
• Confusion
• Hallucinations
• Tiredness
• Lockjaw

Potential Risks of Anesthesia

Anesthesia is considered a safe, effective, and necessary component of dental care. However, certain groups are at a higher risk for adverse effects.

Those who should speak to a dental office or anesthesiologist before using anesthesia include:

• Pregnant women
• Pediatric patients
• People with special needs
• Elderly adults
• Anyone with liver, kidney, lung, or heart problems
• People with neurological conditions
• People taking other medications, such as opioids
• History of allergy to anesthesia medication

Though complications are rare, there are some risks involved in dental anesthesia.

Anesthesia Complications

Potential adverse reactions and complications include:

• Allergic reactions
• Nerve damage
• Low blood pressure
• A dangerous increase in body temperature (malignant hyperthermia)
• Heart attack
• Heart failure
• Stroke
• Failed breathing
• Death

If your big day is coming up, you’ll want to do all you can to achieve your brightest and best smile. This is true even if your wedding is still a few months away. The sooner you begin caring for your smile, the better it will be on the day you say “I do.”

Here are 7 things you can do to have a bright, white, confident smile for your wedding day:

1. Schedule a Smile Consultation

Assessing your situation is the best place to begin. A cosmetic dentist can help with this.

The sooner you schedule a consultation, the better. This is because some dental treatments require several weeks or months for best results.

Here are three things to address during your consultation:

1. What about your smile needs improvement?
2. What can be done to achieve these improvements?
3. Which of these improvements do you have the time and money to do?

Once you have a general list of smile-perfecting techniques, you can prioritize your options.

Are you most concerned about having a bright, white smile? Put teeth whitening procedures at the top of your list.

Do you want a straighter smile? Invest in straightening devices like braces or aligners. Note: You’ll want to do this at least a year in advance.

Are you dealing with serious dental issues that must come before cosmetic issues? These problems will also affect your smile’s appearance, so you should address them before anything else.

2. Maintain Good Dental Health at Home

No matter how drastic your efforts are to improve your smile before your wedding, there’s one important thing that everyone should do. This is to maintain your oral health at home.

Always make sure to brush and floss as directed by your dentist. It’s especially important in the days, weeks, and months leading up to your big day.

Maybe you’ve always loved your smile and you like it just the way it is. Great! But it’s important to keep your teeth healthy and do all you can to ensure your breath and teeth stay fresh.

You can also add items such as a travel toothbrush, floss, and mouthwash in a small makeup bag to carry with you. This way you can check in throughout your wedding day to ensure your mouth is clean and your breath is as fresh as possible.

If you’ve waited too long and are far from a near perfect smile, don’t worry. There are tricks you can use to get a beautiful smile and make your teeth appear whiter for your wedding day.

For example:

• Choose a blue-based red lipstick for your makeup
• Wear sparkling earrings and other jewelry
• Use at-home whitening “paint”
• Try photo-editing techniques that correct what you don’t like in your wedding photos, like discolored teeth

3. Whiten Your Teeth

Whitening is one of the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures someone undergoes in preparation for their wedding.

Whitening reduces yellow discoloration on your natural teeth.

Over-the-counter (OTC) whitening treatments for at-home use tend to provide less drastic results than procedures your dentist performs. They mostly clean surface stains, but for many this is enough.

At-home options are more affordable. For some people, a combination of professional and at-home maintenance provides the best results.

In addition to what you can do to whiten your teeth, you’ll want to think about what to avoid in the weeks and months leading up to your wedding day.

4. Alter Your Diet

One of the best things you can do to prevent stained teeth for your wedding day is to avoid foods that discolor your teeth.

When possible, avoid drinking red wine, cola, and coffee. If you’re unwilling to give up these beverages, drink through a straw when you can to avoid direct contact with your teeth.

This is a good idea whether or not you are investing in the professional whitening.

Crunchy fruits and vegetables are great for cleaning your teeth and avoiding stains.

5. Schedule a Dental Cleaning

This seems simple, but many people focus so much on cosmetic issues they forget about basic dental care. Whether you get dental cleanings every 4 to 6 months or it’s been a while, make sure you schedule a visit to your dentist’s office within a few weeks of your wedding day.

Not only does a dental cleaning  ensure your teeth will be as clean as possible, but it also helps avoid any looming dental health issues. The last thing you want is a bad toothache on your wedding day.

6. Teeth Straightening

Braces adjust the placement of your teeth. They correct issues such as crowding or crooked teeth.

In the past, braces were a combination of metal brackets and wires that shifted teeth over time. Nowadays, there are many different options, including porcelain brackets and plastic trays. These options don’t use bulky metal braces that look and feel uncomfortable.

The important thing to remember about braces is that it’s a process that takes time. You won’t be able to get braces a month or two before your wedding and achieve the results you want.

If you’d like to make adjustments that require braces, speak to your dentist as soon as possible.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners, including Invisalign, are one of the most popular options for straightening today. Adults often choose clear aligners because they straighten teeth discreetly.

Clear aligners are transparent, plastic trays that slowly move teeth into the correct position. They are available from your dentist or orthodontist (Invisalign and Candid) or from home (direct-to-consumer brands like Byte and NewSmile).

Clear aligners correct:

• Crowded teeth
• Overbite
• Underbite
• Diasteme
• Open bite
• Misaligned baby teeth

The costs of clear aligners vary based on the brand and the degree of correction needed. In most cases, they range from $1,500 to $8,000.

7. Porcelain Veneers

Veneers can whiten teeth, but they also offer so much more.

Veneers are a significant investment that drastically improves your smile. They are thin shells that fit over your teeth to change their shape, color, and size. If you’ve ever considered veneers, your upcoming wedding is a great time to take the leap.

In addition to eliminating discoloration, veneers hide misshapen or crowded teeth and damaged tooth enamel.

It’s possible to get partial or full veneers. For example, some people only need veneers on their lower or upper teeth. This makes it less expensive but still allows you to correct the things you don’t like about your smile.

Getting veneers also takes less time than whitening and other corrective processes. Veneers might be an option if you’ve waited too long for other treatments.

Keep in mind: Veneers are expensive, so they aren’t a good option for everyone.

However, brushing without flossing is less effective. In 2016, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reaffirmed flossing as an “important oral hygiene practice.”⁵

How to Floss Your Teeth (Step-by-Step Instructions)

Flossing your teeth can be uncomfortable initially, but it’s easy to get the hang of after you’ve done it a few times. Follow these steps for an ideal flossing technique:

1. Pull off an 18-inch-long piece of floss.
2. Wrap most of the floss around your middle fingers, leaving a small section in between.
3. Gently push the floss between two teeth.
4. Once the floss touches your gums, wrap it against the side of one tooth.
5. While holding the floss against the tooth, gently move it back and forth and up and down. Make sure to reach the gum line. Then, repeat the same action on the side of the other tooth.
6. Unwind some of the wrapped floss from around your finger, using a new section of floss.
7. Repeat the process above for the rest of your teeth.

How to Floss Your Teeth With a Water Flosser

If you want to floss with a water flosser, aim the water between your teeth and rinse away any food particles. Make sure to get the front and back sides of every tooth.

Depending on your water flosser, you may have to follow specific product instructions to fill the flosser with water and charge it if necessary. Also, some water flossers can attach to your toothbrush, while others are separate.

Should You Floss in the Morning or at Night?

The time of day you floss is up to you. The ADA does not have any specific advice on when you should floss, just that you should do it correctly and every day.

The most important thing is that you pick a time you’re the most likely to stick with. Do it when it’s convenient for you, and you’ll have adopted a new healthy habit before long.

Should You Floss Before or After Brushing?

You should floss before you brush your teeth. When you floss before brushing, it helps dislodge any food or plaque debris that the toothbrush can then remove. It may also lower the risk of gum disease and bad breath.

One study found that flossing before brushing was better at reducing plaque.⁶ Also, brushing after flossing led to more fluoride remaining in the mouth.

How Often Should You Floss Your Teeth?

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), you should floss once daily.¹ 

Flossing is essential for a lot of reasons, according to the ADA. Over 500 bacterial species, both good and bad, can be found in plaque. When that bacteria mixes with food debris, water, and other substances, it can damage your teeth.

Flossing once daily will help remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth. This will not only help protect against cavities but also prevent conditions caused by poor dental hygiene.

Is it Bad to Floss Twice a Day?

There’s nothing wrong with flossing twice daily, but it’s unnecessary. You might floss a second time to remove food stuck between your teeth.

The most important thing is to be gentle (too much pressure will irritate your gums) while still being thorough.

What Happens if You Don’t Floss Your Teeth Daily?

If you don’t floss your teeth daily, you raise your risk for numerous oral health issues, including tooth decay and gum disease.

Brushing alone isn’t sufficient for removing the sticky film of plaque between teeth. Left long enough, plaque eventually hardens into a rough substance called tartar.

Tartar collects along your gums and can lead to cavities and gum disease. Only your dentist can remove it with a professional cleaning.

Flossing daily is key to a clean mouth and may serve as good preventive care for complications elsewhere in the body. For example, evidence suggests poor oral health is linked to diabetes, cardiovascular illnesses, and Alzheimer’s Disease.¹¹

Plaque is a sticky film that builds up on teeth and gum surfaces. Plaque forms when bacteria break down carbohydrates from food into acid.

The acid in plaque mixes with leftover food particles, damaging tooth enamel if not removed properly. Plaque causes cavities when it repeatedly damages the enamel.

Some signs of plaque build-up include:

• A fuzzy feeling on the teeth
• Bad breath and taste in the mouth
• Gums that appear red and swollen, and that bleed after brushing

What Does Plaque Look Like?

Plaque appears as a soft, sticky coating on the surface of the teeth and between the teeth. It’s not always easy to see. It ranges in color from translucent to pale yellow.

When plaque builds up, it can make the teeth appear yellow and/or orange.

What Causes Plaque Buildup on Teeth?

Eating foods that contain carbohydrates, like sugars and starches, causes plaque buildup on the teeth. Bacteria feed on the sugars in the food particles and produce acids.

Common foods that can cause plaque buildup include:

• Milk
• Bread and cereal
• Pasta
• Baked goods, like cake or pastries
• Candy
• Fruit (especially dried fruits)
• Juice or soda

Importance of Plaque Removal

Plaque can make teeth look dull and yellow. It also causes enamel damage, which can lead to tooth decay.

When plaque stays on teeth too long, it can harden into tartar. This is more difficult to remove and can only be done by a trained dental professional.

Complications of plaque and tartar include:

• Cavities ⁠— The bacteria in plaque produce acids, which destroy your tooth enamel, causing decay.
• Gum disease ⁠— Plaque can irritate the gums if not cleaned properly, causing inflammation, swelling, or bleeding.
• Tartar (calculus formation) ⁠— If dental plaque is not removed, it hardens and forms tartar, or calculus. Plaque needs to be removed within 24 hours to prevent tartar formation.
• Bad breath ⁠— Bad breath, called halitosis, is an unpleasant oral odor often caused by plaque.
• Tooth loss ⁠— If plaque and tartar aren’t removed, it can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, leading to tooth loss.
• General health issues ⁠— Bacteria in plaque can travel through the bloodstream to other areas of the body and cause inflammation. This results in damage to the body’s internal organs.

Risk Factors for Severe Plaque Buildup

Everyone accumulates plaque on their teeth. However, some people may be at higher risk for severe plaque buildup than others.

You may be more likely to develop plaque buildup if you have:

• A weakened immune system can increase bacteria in the mouth.
• Diabetes causes high glucose levels in saliva, which helps bacteria to grow.
• Infrequent dental cleanings allow tartar to build up, making teeth difficult to clean at home.
• Poor daily oral hygiene can cause bacteria in the mouth to increase exponentially. Appliances in your mouth (such as braces) also make oral hygiene challenging.
• Dry mouth allows more plaque to accumulate because the anti-plaque effects of saliva are missing.
• A smoking habit weakens the body’s immune system, which leads to an increase of bacteria in the mouth.

7 Ways to Remove Plaque From Teeth 

Removing plaque right away can help prevent any further complications associated with it. Here are some ways to remove plaque from your teeth:

1. Floss

Flossing before brushing your teeth is one of the best ways to remove plaque. It dislodges anything stuck between the teeth or in the gums. This makes brushing teeth more effective.

2. Use baking soda

Some studies have looked into the effects of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) toothpaste.¹ They discovered that toothpastes with baking soda helped remove significantly more plaque than those without baking soda.²

The study also found that toothpaste with baking soda could reduce plaque in the more hard-to-reach areas of the mouth.

Baking soda has other benefits, including:

• Antimicrobial properties that may prevent tooth decay.³
• A high pH that can balance the pH level inside the mouth. This prevents demineralization, which refers to mineral loss in teeth that weakens enamel and leads to cavities.⁴
• Inexpensive product (easily found in grocery stores and online).

3. Brush with an electric toothbrush

Brushing your teeth using an electric toothbrush has been proven to be more effective than using a manual toothbrush.⁵ Always aim to brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes, twice daily.⁶

4. Use fluoride toothpaste

Many toothpastes contain fluoride. Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by making enamel more resistant to acids. It also helps rebuild enamel and slows decay.

Some studies suggest fluoride can stop tooth decay that has already started.⁷

5. Try oil pulling

This is where people swish or rinse their mouths with oil. You can use sesame oil, sunflower oil, or coconut oil.

A 2015 study noticed a significant decrease in the amount of plaque in participants’ mouths.⁸ However, there are also some potential downsides of oil pulling. These include jaw soreness and gastrointestinal upset from swallowing the oil that now contains bacteria.

Instructions:⁹

• Practice oil pulling first thing in the morning.
• Use a tablespoon of warm oil.
• Swish for 5 to 20 minutes, forcing the oil through and around your teeth.
• Do not swallow any of the oil.
• Spit the oil into a trashcan or paper towel. Never spit into a sink, as oil can clog the pipes.

6. Use mouthwash

Using an antimicrobial mouthwash kills bacteria that cause plaque. Because mouthwash can reach spaces between the teeth and gums that toothbrushes can’t, research shows a significant reduction in plaque with consistent mouthwash use.¹⁰

7. Professional Treatments

Visiting the dentist for a teeth cleaning every six months is essential for good oral health.

Dentists clean areas of the mouth that you might miss at home. They can also remove plaque or tartar buildup on your teeth and advise you on how to clean your teeth at home.¹²

When to See Your Dentist

Regular dental checkups that include cleaning and polishing can keep your teeth free of plaque and tartar. You should see your dentist every 6 months.¹¹

You should also visit your dentist if:

• Your gums hurt or are red and swollen. This could be the initial stages of gingivitis, a reversible type of gum disease.
• Your gums bleed after brushing or flossing.¹²
• You have a toothache. This may indicate a cavity.
• You have tartar build-up on your teeth

Never try to remove tartar at home. Although several dental tools are available for purchase in stores, they are easy to misuse and might cause severe damage if not used properly.

Tips for Preventing Plaque Build-Up

Preventing plaque buildup is better than removing it once it forms. There are a number of things you can do to stop plaque forming:

Chew Sugar-Free Gum

Research shows that chewing gum with sorbitol or xylitol can help prevent plaque from building up.¹⁵ Avoid gum containing sugar, which will encourage bacteria to grow, causing more plaque.

Brush Your Teeth After Meals

This is especially important if you eat or drink a lot of sugary and starchy foods. These stick to the teeth and cause bacteria and plaque buildup.

How to use the “Modified Bass Technique” to brush teeth:

1. Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gumline so that the toothbrush bristles can clean under the gumline
2. Brush teeth using a gentle, circular motion
3. Brush the front of the teeth, back of the teeth, chewing surfaces, and tongue

Maintain a Balanced Diet

The bacteria in your mouth feed on starchy and sugary foods. These kinds of food stick to your teeth, so try to limit them in your daily meals and snacks.

Schedule Routine Dental Cleanings and Check-Ups

Your dentist can remove plaque or tartar during your regular teeth cleaning. You should visit your general dentist at least once every 6 months.

While many people have a regular oral hygiene routine, they may need better tools or techniques. Brushing your teeth with poor form can reduce the benefits of brushing.

In this article, we’ll talk about how to brush your teeth properly. We’ll also discuss other oral hygiene tips.

How to Brush Your Teeth Properly

To brush your teeth effectively, follow these steps:¹

• Wet your toothbrush with cold water — Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush, as stiff bristles can damage your enamel and irritate your gums
• Apply a pea-sized amount of toothpaste — A toothpaste containing fluoride or hydroxyapatite will be best for remineralizing your teeth²
• Put your toothbrush up to your teeth at about a 45-degree angle — Press firmly but gently, moving the brush in short circular strokes along the gum line
• Spend 30 seconds on each quadrant of your mouth — Be sure to brush the back surfaces of your teeth as well
• Gently brush your tongue — Bacteria can build up on your tongue just as they do on your teeth
• Once done, spit out the toothpaste and rinse your mouth — Be sure to rinse your brush as well, then place it upright in a container or holder

How Long Should You Brush Your Teeth?

The ADA recommends brushing for at least two minutes twice daily. This brushing time means spending at least 30 seconds on each quadrant of your mouth (top left, top right, bottom right, bottom left).

Some people struggle to brush consistently for the recommended amount of time. If you want to ensure you spend enough time brushing, set a timer. Many electric toothbrushes have built-in timers.

Should You Brush Before or After Flossing? 

Dentists generally recommend brushing after flossing. With plaque and food debris out of the way, your toothbrush and toothpaste can reach between your teeth better.

If you brush and then floss, don’t worry—it’s still good that you’re flossing. But try to change your routine’s order to more effectively prevent food and plaque from remaining in the crevices of your teeth.

Electric vs. Manual Toothbrushes

Electric and manual toothbrushes can effectively remove plaque and clean your teeth. However, electric toothbrushes make brushing easier because they do some of the “technique work” for you.

An electric brush can also improve brushing time since it typically has built-in timers.

Electric toothbrushes are beneficial for people who:

• Have limited dexterity (children, elders, or people with disabilities)
• Are undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces
• Want to ensure they brush for long enough (electric toothbrushes often have timers)

If you choose an electric toothbrush, your overall routine will be similar. But your technique will be more straightforward in the following ways:

• Since the toothbrush makes back-and-forth or circular motions, you only need to ensure the bristles reach every tooth surface
• You don’t have to apply as much pressure with an electric toothbrush

Be sure to use an electric toothbrush with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. You should also read the instructions for your electric toothbrush before using it.

Common Tooth Brushing Mistakes

Even if you brush routinely, you may need to include some critical practices that help keep your teeth clean. Here are some common tooth-brushing mistakes to avoid:

• Using a brush with bristles that are too hard—Soft bristles are better than medium and stiff bristles. They’re less likely to damage your enamel or irritate your gums.
• Not brushing long enough — Spend at least 30 seconds on each quadrant of your mouth. Using a timer or an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer can help.
• Using excessive or insufficient toothpaste — It’s best to use an amount about the size of a pea.
• Not brushing twice a day — Brushing 30 minutes after breakfast and before bed is recommended. Otherwise, it will be easier for plaque to accumulate on your teeth.
• Brushing too hard — Like using a hard-bristled brush, brushing too hard can damage your gums and tooth enamel.
• Failure to reach all tooth surfaces — This habit allows plaque to continue building up in the neglected areas, which could lead to cavities or gum disease.

Other Oral Health Tips for Clean Teeth

A good toothbrush, quality toothpaste, and proper brushing technique are essential, but they are only one part of a proper oral hygiene routine. To ensure your teeth stay clean and healthy, do the following in addition to brushing correctly:

• Floss at least once a day, preferably before brushing
• Limit your intake of refined sugar and try to include a variety of whole foods
• Visit your dentist every six months for routine cleanings
• Ask your dentist for advice and information

By age 12, most children have lost all their baby teeth, and all (or most) adult teeth have grown in. You only get one set of permanent teeth, so taking good care of them is essential.

This article covers what you need to know about your teen’s oral health, including common concerns, treatments, and pediatric dentistry for teenagers.

Dental Care for Teenagers

Regarding dental health, teenagers face unique challenges compared to adults, such as:

• Wisdom teeth
• Orthodontic treatment
• Oral injuries from playing sports
• Experimenting with alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs
• Eating disorders, including anorexia and bulimia
• Oral piercings

Many dental issues that affect adults, such as tooth decay and gum disease, result from poor oral hygiene habits in the teenage years.

Oral Hygiene for Teenagers

It’s crucial for children to learn good oral hygiene habits early. Practicing these habits during the teenage years will help keep their teeth healthy into adulthood.

Oral hygiene tips for teenagers include:

• Gently brushing the teeth for two minutes, twice daily, with a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste that contains fluoride
• Cleaning in between the teeth with string floss or a water flosser daily
• Drinking plenty of water to keep your mouth hydrated
• Eating a nutritious diet
• Limiting starchy and sugary foods like candy and chips
• Avoiding sugary soft drinks
• Getting regular dental check-ups and professional teeth cleanings from a pediatric or family dentist

The above tips will help prevent tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease.

Common Dental Treatments and Procedures for Teenagers

Here are some common dental treatments and procedures for teens and young adults:

Braces

The teenage years are a common time for orthodontic treatment. Braces are the most commonly used orthodontic treatment to fix a misaligned smile.

An orthodontist typically places braces when a child or teen is between 10 and 15. Older teens and young adults are also candidates for braces.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are also called invisible aligners. Invisible aligners correct misaligned or crooked teeth. They’re a custom, removable, and “invisible” alternative to braces.

Many teens and young adults choose clear aligners over braces because they’re removable and more aesthetically pleasing.

Teeth Whitening

Tooth whitening is a popular cosmetic treatment for teenagers and young adults who want a brighter smile. This may be especially true before big events like proms and graduation.

Some people whiten their teeth at home, while others go to the dentist for professional treatment. Talk to your dentist about the best option for your child.

Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth (third molars) typically erupt during the late teenage years or early adulthood. They’re the last set of molars to grow in.

Most people don’t have enough space in their mouths for wisdom teeth to grow in naturally. This is why they’re usually removed between ages 16 and 20. The extraction procedure prevents irregular eruptions and infections.

Periodontal Treatment

Puberty and menstruation can cause increased inflammation and gum sensitivity. As a result, teens are commonly diagnosed with gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease.

Common symptoms of gingivitis include swollen, red, and bleeding gums. Prioritizing professional teeth cleanings and good oral health at home are the best remedies for mild gum disease.

If left untreated, gingivitis can advance to periodontal disease (severe gum disease) over time. This condition causes permanent oral health damage and requires intensive treatment.

Common Dental Concerns for Teenagers

The following are common concerns among teens and young adults:

Tobacco Products

Every day, about 2,000 teens under 18 try their first cigarette. Around 300 of those teens become regular cigarette smokers.⁶

Smoking cigarettes has many harmful effects on oral health, including:

• Plaque and tartar buildup
• Dry mouth (xerostomia)
• Bad breath (halitosis)
• Oral cancer
• Gum disease
• Tooth discoloration

Eating Disorders

Mental health conditions like anorexia and bulimia have devastating effects on a teenager’s physical and emotional well-being.

Eating disorders can also lead to common oral conditions, including:

• Dental erosion — Frequent vomiting causes stomach acid to repeatedly flow over the teeth, wearing away tooth enamel and causing weak teeth.
• Nutritional deficiencies — Restricting food leads to vitamin deficiencies, which promotes gum disease and tooth decay. Bad breath, dry mouth, and canker sores can also develop.

Oral Injuries

Children and teenagers who play sports are at an increased risk for oral trauma. This includes jaw fractures, broken teeth, and injuries to the mouth’s soft tissues.

Mouth guards dramatically reduce the risk of oral injuries during sports. Make sure your child wears a mouth guard.

Oral Piercings

Many teens and young adults get oral piercings on the tongue or lips.

Mouth jewelry can lead to nerve damage, excessive drooling, and block X-rays during dental exams.

Alcohol and Drugs

Many teenagers begin experimenting with alcohol and other drugs. Teenagers are also more likely to binge drink, which can lead to alcohol addiction later on.

Alcoholism can result in serious oral health problems, such as:

• Periodontal disease — A severe condition that results in irreversible loss of bone and surrounding tissues.
• Oral cancer — A life-threatening disease involving the growth of mouth sores that don’t heal and worsen over time.

Excessive alcohol use can also increase the risk of dry mouth, bad breath, tooth decay, dental erosion, and gingivitis.

How To Choose a Pediatric Dentist for Your Teenager

Most pediatric dentists treat children until they’re 17 or 18. If your child fits in this age group, try scheduling a consultation with a potential dentist.

During the consultation, you and your teen will meet the dentist in their office to learn more about their work. No dental work will be done.

A dental consultation allows you and your teenager to speak with the dentist and staff. You can also get an overall feel of the practice.

Here are some things to consider when choosing a pediatric dentist for your teenager:

• The dentist’s experience
• The clinic’s atmosphere
• Availability
• Costs
• Insurance coverage
• Reviews (research practices online and ask friends for recommendations)
• How comfortable your teenager feels
• Treatments available

Summary

The teen years are a critical time for instilling good oral health habits. This age group faces many issues that don’t affect older adults, such as wisdom teeth eruption and orthodontic work.

Developing good oral health and hygiene practices during adolescence will protect adult teeth and reduce the risk of dental problems like cavities. Parents should work with their pediatric dentist to ensure optimal care.

• Your dental health is at more risk as you age.
• Various oral health problems can stem from neglecting your oral health when you’re older.
• To prevent these issues, healthy oral hygiene practices and regular visits to the dentist are essential.
• Senior dental care treatments such as dental implants, bridges, and dentures can also help restore your smile.

After the age of 65, new oral challenges are introduced as the body continues to age. Various conditions can affect seniors and older adults.

On its own, active aging doesn’t pose a risk for developing oral diseases. However, poor senior dental health may also affect digestion, speech, nutrition, self-esteem, quality of life, and social mobility.

Maintaining a healthy mouth by sticking to lifelong dental care habits is crucial for seniors.

Common Oral Health Problems in Seniors

Common conditions and diseases that affect people over 65 include:

1. Gum Disease (Periodontitis)

Gingivitis is a minor gum infection that develops into periodontal disease (PD) if left untreated for a long period of time.

PD is a serious oral inflammatory disease that damages the gums, and jawbone. It may result in tooth loss. Around 35 percent of all tooth extractions are due to PD.¹ 

Old age is a risk factor for gum diseases, with 70% of adults 65 years and older suffering from periodontal disease.²

However, Periodontitis can also result from poor dental hygiene due to:

• Smoking
• Long-term use of medications
• Neglected dental treatment
• Poor nutrition

Symptoms

Symptoms of periodontal disease include:

• Inflamed gums
• Bleeding gums
• Loose teeth
• Gums that pull away from the teeth

Treatment

Seniors with PD require specialized treatment for this disease. For example, treatment may include:

• Scaling and root planing
• Flap surgery
• Bone grafts
• Gum grafts

2. Root Caries/Decay

Tooth root caries are cavities that form on the root surface of a tooth. They’re caused by exposure of the roots to decay-causing acids.

The roots accumulate bacteria as the gums pull away from the teeth (typically due to periodontal disease). This is because roots are less protected than teeth since they don’t have enamel.

Since older adults have a higher risk of developing gum disease, they’re also more prone to root decay.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of tooth root caries are:

• Sharp or sudden tooth pain
• Pain when you bite down
• Sensitivity to hot, cold, and sweet foods
• Holes or dark spots in your teeth

Treatment 

Common treatment options for root caries or decay include:

• Fillings
• Tooth extractions
• Replacement teeth, such as dental implants or bridges

3. Bad Breath 

Bad breath is more likely to develop as people age, even if the individual practices good oral hygiene.

Some causes of bad breath are:

• Tobacco use
• Poor nutrition
• Excessive coffee or alcohol consumption
• Medications
• Not brushing properly
• Dry mouth

Symptoms

Aside from breath that may be unpleasant, other signs can indicate the presence of bad breath. These include:

• A white coating on the tongue
• Dry mouth and cracked lips
• Taste changes inside the mouth

Treatment

Depending on the condition’s severity, there are many natural ways to reduce bad breath, including:

• Chewing sugar-free gum
• Limiting caffeine intake
• Taking over-the-counter saliva substitutes
• Avoiding decongestant or antihistamine medications
• Stopping all tobacco use
• Breathing through the nose rather than the mouth
• Avoiding sugary foods and drinks
• Using fluoride

4. Dry Mouth

Dry mouth occurs when the production of saliva in the mouth decreases. This condition naturally occurs during sleep, which leads to bad “morning breath.”

Older people who sleep with open mouths or snore often are also more likely to experience dry mouth. Causes of chronic dry mouth include:

• Prescription medications
• Certain diseases
• Problems with the salivary glands
• Radiation to the head and neck (cancer treatment)

Symptoms

Some symptoms of chronic dry mouth include:

• Uncomfortable feeling inside the mouth
• Cracked or dry tongue
• Chapped lips
• Sore throat
• Difficulty speaking and swallowing

Treatment

Home remedies are usually the first step to managing a dry mouth. They include:

• Staying well hydrated by drinking a lot of water during the day
• Chewing sugarless gum or sucking on sugar-free candies
• Using a humidifier, especially if you live in an area with dry air
• Avoiding alcohol and smoking/tobacco use

In cases where home remedies aren’t enough, your doctor may prescribe medicine that stimulates saliva production. This may include pilocarpine (Salagen) or cevimeline (Evoxac).

5. Discolored Teeth

Teeth stain naturally over the course of a person’s life. These surface stains are the clearest indicators of tooth discoloration.

The bumps, grooves, and “holes” in teeth pick up the stains, which results in darkening, white streaks, yellowing, or discoloration.

Tooth color depends on an individual’s lifestyle, diet, habits, and oral care practices. Factors that may affect tooth color include:

• Aging
• Diseases
• Medications
• Tobacco use
• Excessive fluoride use
• Genetics
• Hormone changes
• Poor dental health

Symptoms

Discolored teeth don’t only mean your teeth turn yellow. It can also mean your teeth have grey, brown, or black spots.

Treatment

Professional teeth whitening is the safest and most effective way to brighten your teeth. There are many at-home teeth whitening options, including:

• LED teeth whitening kits
• Teeth whitening strips
• Teeth whitening pens

6. Tooth Decay & Tooth Loss

Dental cavities left untreated for a long time may result in more serious oral conditions or diseases. This can lead to tooth decay or missing teeth.

In seniors over 65 years or older, around 20% have lost all of their teeth.³

Symptoms

You’ll know that your cavity is slowly turning into tooth decay when you experience the following symptoms:

• Pain when eating and drinking
• Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
• Toothache or tooth pain that won’t go away
• An unpleasant taste in your mouth
• Inflammation and irritation in your teeth and gums
• Loose teeth caused by an infection in the root canal

Treatment

When teeth fall out or need to be extracted due to extreme decay or gum disease, common restorative treatment options include:

• Dental implants
• Dental bridges
• Dentures

7. Oral Cancer

Oral cancer, also called mouth cancer, begins with the development of abnormal carcinoma cells.

As a result, mouth sores that don’t disappear on their own develop. The disease is life-threatening without early diagnosis and treatment.

Symptoms

Unfortunately, oral cancer is usually discovered after it has spread to another part of the body, such as the lymph nodes.

Other symptoms may include:

• A sore or ulcer in the mouth that does not heal
• White or red patches inside the mouth and on the tongue
• Difficulty swallowing
• Pain in the throat, jaw, or ear that doesn’t go away

Treatment

Surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy are common treatment options, depending on the cancer stage.

Early detection is the key to a high survival rate. So, seeing your dentist at least once a year for an oral cancer screening is crucial.

8. Stomatitis

Stomatitis is defined as inflammation of the mouth and lips.

In particular, dentures may cause stomatitis in older adults if the artificial teeth don’t fit correctly or aren’t cleaned properly. It can also happen when the dentures grow fungus (Candida albicans) over time.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of stomatitis include:

• Red patches and blisters around the mouth
• Mouth swelling
• Burning sensation in the mouth (oral dysaesthesia)
• Recurring oral lesions

Treatment

Here are some treatment options for stomatitis:

• Oral rinses
• Topical ointments
• Anti-inflammatory medication

Common Senior Dental Care Treatments

Missing teeth is the most common outcome of seniors neglecting their oral health. As such, many senior dental care treatments focus on treatments restoring your smile.

Here are some of the most common senior dental care treatments:

Dental Implants 

After an extraction or tooth loss, an implant is commonly used to replace the permanent tooth. A dental implant, or artificial tooth root, is placed in a patient’s jawbone. In short, the implant mirrors the shape of a screw and bonds with the natural bone.

Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is a fixed (permanent) restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth in a patient’s dental arch. In more serious cases, multiple bridges can be positioned to provide full-mouth rehabilitation.

Dentures

When a person loses all or some of their natural teeth from tooth decay, gum disease, or an injury, dentures are placed to restore some chewing functions and esthetics.

How to Prevent Senior Dental Problems

Older adults are more prone to dental problems due to various factors. To prevent senior dental issues, it’s important to do the following:

• Practice good dental health by brushing and flossing daily
• Visit the dentist regularly, ideally twice a year
• Improve overall health by eating fruits and vegetables rich in fiber
• Avoid tobacco use and alcohol consumption
• Clean dentures and other dental appliances regularly

When a child’s dentition consists of primary and newly erupted permanent teeth (mixed dentition phase), they should take extra care of their teeth. This ensures the newly erupted permanent teeth are healthy.

Good oral hygiene practices to teach your children include:

1. Brushing the permanent teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice daily
2. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush to ensure tooth enamel doesn’t get damaged over time
3. Flossing between teeth at least once daily to remove dental plaque
4. Rinsing the mouth with mouthwash once a day
5. Drinking fluoridated tap water to reduce the chance of cavity development
6. Visiting a pediatric dentist or family dentist at least twice a year for routine teeth cleanings, x-rays, professional fluoride treatment, and exams

Common Dental Conditions in Children & Treatment Options

Common oral health conditions that affect children include:

Early Childhood Caries (ECC)

Children are prone to developing early childhood caries (ECC). This is especially true in primary teeth.

During the baby teething period, tooth enamel is more fragile than permanent tooth enamel. ECCs begin as white spots on the teeth. Over time, the spots turn brown or black.

Cavities most commonly appear on the biting surfaces of primary molars, including the upper middle teeth. Common causes of cavities include:

• Poor nutrition
• Low fluoride consumption
• Bad oral hygiene
• Dry mouth

How Early Childhood Caries Impact Future Dental Health

Even though primary teeth fall out at a young age, taking care of them is essential. If children develop cavities in their baby teeth, the bacteria can affect the permanent teeth once they erupt into the mouth. This bacteria makes them more susceptible to tooth decay.

Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are the most common restorative treatment option for minor cavities in primary and permanent teeth. Treatment options include the following fillings:

• Composite
• Amalgam
• Glass

Dental Crowns

Stainless steel crowns typically restore primary teeth with large cavities. Dental crowns repair permanent teeth with large cavities.

Types of dental crowns include:

• Porcelain-fused-to-metal
• Gold alloys
• Ceramic crowns

Tooth Extractions and Space Maintainers

Your dentist may extract teeth due to the following:

• Decay
• Trauma
• Other oral health conditions

However, if your child loses a primary tooth prematurely, they should wear space maintainers. Space maintainers ensure that permanent teeth grow in the correct position to prevent the misalignment of teeth and overcrowding.

Dental Care Basics for Children (5 to 13 yrs)

As a baby transitions into childhood, oral care needs to change. This is because the risk of developing cavities increases with age. The risk of gum diseases, such as gingivitis and dental pulp infections, is also higher.

From the milestone of a baby’s first tooth, primary teeth typically fall out between six and 13 years, and permanent teeth begin to grow in. This is when children should learn healthy oral hygiene habits to keep their mouths in tip-top shape as they grow into adulthood.

Aside from the tips above, here are some additional things to keep in mind for your child’s oral health at this stage:

• Limit sugary snacks and drinks like soda, candy, and juice — These can cause plaque buildup and increase the risk of cavities.
• Encourage children to drink water instead of sugary drinks — Water helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids that can damage tooth enamel.
• Avoid using pacifiers or bottles past the age of two — Prolonged sucking can cause dental problems and a baby’s teeth misaligning.
• If your child plays sports, make sure they wear a mouthguard — This is essential considering how many teeth could be at risk of potential injuries.
• Monitor your child’s brushing habits and assist if necessary — Children may not have the dexterity to brush their teeth thoroughly until age eight.
• Set a good example by practicing good oral hygiene habits — Children often mimic their parents, so ensure you care for your teeth.

Losing Baby Teeth

All primary or baby teeth should erupt between six months and two to three years of age. A baby teething chart can be a helpful tool to track this process.

• Baby teeth fall out at different times throughout childhood, beginning around age six.
• As baby teeth fall out, permanent teeth start to erupt around the same time, around age six.
• Permanent teeth fully grow in by age 13.
• The period when each third molar or wisdom tooth erupts typically occurs between 17 and 25
• Dentists typically remove third molars before age 20.

Chronology of Permanent Dentition

The standard chronology of permanent dentition is as follows:

Summary

Establishing good oral hygiene habits for children from a young age is crucial. The primary teeth play an essential role in the development and health of permanent teeth.

Follow the tips above to help prevent common dental conditions, such as cavities and gingivitis. In case of any concerns or issues, consult a pediatric dentist specializing in taking care of children’s oral health needs.

While children’s dental care focuses on cavities and orthodontic treatment, adults have additional issues to be aware of. For instance, adults are more prone to gum disease, failed fillings, TMJ disorders, and mouth cancer.

These problems can often be treated. However, proper care becomes more complex and expensive as time progresses.

This article will discuss these common oral health issues facing adults. We’ll also share some tips on maintaining healthy teeth and gums throughout your adult life.

8 Ways to Maintain Oral Health as an Adult

With modern dental care and good oral hygiene, you can greatly reduce your risk of the above conditions. Here are some ways you can maintain good oral health throughout your life:

1. Brush your teeth — Brush twice a day with a toothpaste containing fluoride or hydroxyapatite. These ingredients are crucial for remineralizing tooth enamel.
2. Floss daily — Whether using traditional string floss or investing in a Waterpik, it’s best to floss your teeth at least once daily.
3. Visit your dentist — You should see your dentist at least twice yearly for regular cleanings and checkups. This helps address potential oral health issues before they become serious.
4. Eat a balanced diet — A diet high in vitamins and minerals and low in ultra-processed foods will benefit your immune system and provide less fuel for harmful oral bacteria.
5. Stay hydrated — It’s important to maintain adequate water to support saliva flow, especially if you take medications that cause dry mouth. Saliva helps remineralize your teeth, counteracting oral bacteria.
6. Avoid tobacco products — Smoking, dipping, and related habits increase your risk of oral cancer. They also contribute to dry mouth.
7. Limit alcohol — Heavy drinking can also contribute to dry mouth, as well as a host of other health issues.
8. Take care of your overall health — While the above pertains more directly to your teeth and gums, oral health and overall health are connected. Don’t neglect good sleep, regular exercise, and good overall hygiene.

Common Oral Health Conditions for Adults

Common oral health problems that affect adults include:

1. Untreated Tooth Decay

Tooth decay starts small but can become a serious problem if left untreated. In the early stages, a cavity may appear as a small black or brown dot on the surface of a tooth. But over time, the cavity can grow larger and deeper, penetrating the inner part of the tooth.

If this happens, complications can result. The bacteria causing the decay may infect the sensitive pulp inside the tooth or cause an abscess. This can be extremely painful.

Cavities can be treated with dental fillings before the affected teeth become heavily decayed. But if the decay is more advanced, the tooth may require a root canal or even complete removal (followed by replacement with a denture or implant).

Many adults suffer from untreated tooth decay. According to the CDC, about 1 in 4 adults (ages 20 to 64) has an untreated cavity.¹ It’s best to see your dentist before it gets worse.

2. Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease (PD) is a severe form of gum disease that damages the gums, teeth, and jawbone. While mild gum disease (gingivitis) can be reversed, PD becomes more difficult and eventually impossible to fully reverse. It can also contribute to other health problems.

The gums recede (pull back) from the teeth, and the underlying bone and connective tissue are gradually lost. If left untreated, this can result in tooth loss. One study found that 35 percent of adult tooth extractions were due to PD.²

Periodontal disease is mainly the result of poor oral hygiene, but this can be compounded by:

• Smoking tobacco
• Certain medications (especially those that cause dry mouth)
• Age (risk of PD increases with age)
• Genetic factors
• Poor nutrition
• Stress
• Chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease

You should seek treatment for gum disease as early as possible, especially if you have another medical condition, such as diabetes. Eventually, it becomes impossible for gum grafts and other treatments to restore your gums fully.

3. Breakdown of Dental Fillings

Cavity fillings can last for years, but they eventually need to be replaced. After a long enough period of chewing, drinking, and clenching, fillings wear down and don’t serve their purpose as well. They may fall out entirely.

Fillings that have chipped, cracked, or fallen out may leave gaps in the teeth where bacteria and food particles can enter. The gaps allow the process of decay to begin again, which can lead to tooth loss or contribute to gum disease if left untreated.

Regular dental checkups can help you avoid leaving a broken filling for too long.

4. Temporomandibular Joint Disorders

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs or TMJDs) involve pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. Between 5% and 15% of people may be affected by TMDs.

Many people experience minor jaw pain from time to time, which is generally nothing to worry about. However, some develop long-term symptoms that occur more frequently, which may result in a TMD diagnosis.

TMDs may be caused or worsened by:

• Stress and anxiety
• Bruxism (teeth grinding)
• Misaligned teeth
• Jaw injury
• Rheumatoid arthritis, which is a chronic inflammatory disorder that affects the joints
• Excessive gum chewing

See your doctor if you have frequent jaw pain accompanied by earaches, headaches, pain when opening or closing your mouth, or jaw locking. These symptoms may indicate an underlying TMD.

5. Oral Cancer

Oral cancer appears as growths or sores in the mouth that do not disappear on their own. The disease is life-threatening if it isn’t diagnosed or treated early.

Oral cancers include cancers of the cheeks, lips, tongue, gums, the mouth’s floor, hard palate, soft palate, sinuses, and throat.

It typically remains undiagnosed until the cancer cells spread to another part of the body, such as the lymph nodes of the neck. Surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy are common treatment options, depending on the stage of cancer.

Oral cancer in adults may be caused or affected by:

• Tobacco use
• Genetic factors
• Long-term excessive alcohol use
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Sun exposure (in the case of lip cancer)
• Age
• Long-term poor oral health

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), oral cancer is responsible for about 3% of cancer diagnoses yearly. Let your doctor know as soon as possible if you notice an unusual growth in or near your mouth.

Summary

Oral health is vital for well-being at every stage of life. The need to see a dentist doesn’t end once we have all of our permanent teeth.

While adults and children are both at risk of untreated tooth decay, some oral health concerns are more common for adults. These include gum disease, filling breakdown, jaw (TMJ) disorders, and oral cancer.

Proactive oral hygiene and regular dentist visits can help prevent these issues or get them early treatment to minimize complications.

This article covers everything you need to know about oral health in children. It includes tips on preventing cavities and building habits for a healthy smile throughout adulthood.

When Should a Child Start Going to the Dentist?

Children should visit the dentist after their first tooth appears or by their first birthday, whichever comes first.

The initial dental visit is similar to a well-baby checkup but for teeth. Even if you believe your child’s dental health is fine, a professional dentist should still assess your child’s teeth.

The dentist will check for normal development, cavities, and other problems during the initial visit. They’ll also demonstrate proper brushing and address concerns, including thumb-sucking or pacifier use.

Why are Baby Teeth Important? 

Some parents assume baby teeth aren’t important because they aren’t permanent. This isn’t true.

Baby teeth play an important role in a child’s long-term oral health. Baby teeth hold space for the permanent teeth that eventually grow into their place.

If a baby’s tooth comes out too early, permanent teeth can shift and crowd other teeth. Losing a baby tooth prematurely can also delay the permanent tooth from erupting on time.

Baby teeth also affect a child’s overall development because they affect chewing, speaking, and smiling.

When Do Baby Teeth Start Coming In?

Most children begin teething about 6 to 12 months after birth. In most cases, the first teeth to break through the gums are the two front bottom teeth.

Teeth tend to appear in pairs. Most children have all of their baby (primary) teeth by the time they’re 3 years old.

Dental Care for Babies and Toddlers

Developing an at-home dental care routine will lay the foundation for a healthy mouth throughout your child’s life. These habits help prevent cavities, gum disease, and misaligned teeth, among other conditions.

Here are some helpful tips for keeping your child’s teeth healthy:

Birth to 6 Months of Age

Start cleaning your baby’s mouth as soon as you bring them home. Don’t wait until the first tooth emerges to begin a dental hygiene routine.

Additionally, clean your infant’s gums after every feeding and before your baby falls asleep. Gently wipe your baby’s gums with a water-moistened washcloth wrapped around your index finger. Avoid using toothpaste, mouthwash, or other substances.

Keep in mind that dental decay is transmissible. Don’t put a bottle, pacifier, or anything else in your mouth before giving it to your baby.

6 to 12 Months of Age

Your baby’s first tooth will appear between 6 and 8 months of age.

Here’s how to care for your baby’s gums and their first teeth:

• Continue cleaning your child’s gums after every feeding
• Brush with a soft-bristled infant toothbrush and water once the first tooth appears
• Provide a clean, cool teething ring or cold washcloth to relieve teething symptoms
• Schedule your child’s first dental appointment
• If your drinking water isn’t fluoridated, ask your child’s dentist about infant fluoride supplements

12 to 18 Months of Age

Your child should have their first dental exam by the time they’re one year old. You should schedule an appointment if they have not seen a dentist by this time.

Continue caring for your baby’s teeth at home by:

• Brushing their teeth twice a day with a bit of fluoride toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice)
• Flossing between their teeth as soon as they have two teeth that touch
• Checking your child’s teeth for signs of decay (white or brown spots)

18 Months to Age 3

Most, if not all, of your child’s baby (primary) teeth should grow in by age 3. Babies have 20 primary teeth, with 10 on the top and 10 on the bottom.

By the time your child is 3 years old, they should have stopped using a pacifier or sucking their thumb. This is an important habit to break to avoid teeth misalignment.

Around age 3, you can start using a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste, but make sure they spit it out. Supervise them as they brush at least twice a day. You will have to help them brush until they have the dexterity to do it themselves.

Common Pediatric Dental Concerns

Parents should keep the following factors in mind when considering their child’s dental health:

Teething 

Teething usually begins when your child is about 6 months old, and symptoms can include:

• Drooling
• Crankiness
• Excessive crying
• Chewing on objects
• Sore gums
• Slightly elevated temperature (usually no higher than 100.3 F)

There are several things you can do to soothe the discomfort of teething, including:

• Massage the gums with a clean finger or wet gauze
• Provide a chilled teething ring
• Consider over-the-counter (OTC) pain remedies based on your doctor’s recommendation

Breastfeeding

Many parents ask if they should stop breastfeeding once their child begins teething. This is a personal decision, and the answer is different for everyone.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends breastfeeding for up to two years but acknowledges this isn’t possible for everyone.¹

Breastfeeding reduces the risk of baby bottle tooth decay. However, this doesn’t mean that breastfed babies can’t get cavities.

Early Tooth Decay and Poor Nutrition

Tooth decay is possible, even when your child is very young. Sugary foods and drinks, which cause bacteria and acids to develop, damage tooth enamel.

Dental caries and cavities are not easily recognizable, so early dental visits are important. With lifestyle changes, incipient tooth decay can be monitored and managed without invasive treatment.

To prevent and manage early onset tooth decay:

• Move the bottle or breast away from your baby once they finish feeding
• Never put your baby to bed with a bottle of milk or juice
• Don’t supplement formula or breastmilk with sugary juices, sodas, or other liquids
• Speak to a dentist about the proper care and cleaning of baby teeth
• Brush your child’s teeth with a finger toothbrush or child-sized toothbrush and toothpaste approved by your dentist

Thumbsucking and Pacifier Use

Many babies and young children comfort themselves by sucking on their thumbs or pacifiers. These behaviors can lead to dental health problems.

Thumb-sucking is rarely a concern for very young children. Ideally, your child will break the habit by the time they’re 3 years old. Otherwise, it can affect the development of the roof of the mouth and tooth alignment.

Thumb-sucking and pacifier use can also elongate the upper jaw and affect overall alignment. It’s also possible that children who suck their thumbs will have problems with overcrowding.

Knocked-Out Teeth (Emergencies) 

Dental trauma is common among young children. This is partly because they are developing motor skills, and clumsy movements can cause injuries. Chipped, broken, or knocked-out baby teeth require emergency dental treatment.

In most cases, there are fewer cosmetic issues to consider when a child knocks out a tooth. It’s normal for children to have missing teeth, but you should still be concerned about it. Missing baby teeth can affect the long-term well-being of your child’s overall dental health.

Malocclusion (Bad Bites) 

Malocclusion occurs when someone’s teeth don’t bite together in alignment. This might occur if teeth don’t erupt properly or because a child’s mouth is too small to accommodate all their teeth.

Malocclusion risks are higher for children who:

• Use a pacifier after age 3
• Suck their thumb after their permanent teeth begin to erupt
• Have a cleft palate or lip
• Experience facial trauma or injury
• Have an airway obstruction from mouth breathing or tonsil or adenoid problems
• Have a tongue thrust or tongue-tie

Summary

Proper oral health care is crucial for babies and toddlers because it helps to set them up for healthy teeth throughout life.

You should begin cleaning your child’s mouth within the first days of infancy and schedule their first oral examination before their first birthday. Continue supervising your child until they’re old enough to care for their own teeth.

Leaving sleep apnea untreated can be dangerous. Because it starves the body of oxygen, the condition can lead to severe health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.

In this article, we cover the different types of sleep apnea, its causes, and possible treatment options.

What Are the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?

The three most common sleep apnea symptoms are:

• Abrupt awakenings accompanied by choking or gasping for air
• Breathing that starts and stops suddenly
• Frequent, loud snoring

These 3 symptoms aren’t the only effects sleep apnea patients notice. Some people also experience:

• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Restless sleep
• Trouble falling asleep
• Dry mouth
• Morning headaches
• Sexual dysfunction
• Waking during the night to urinate
• Mood changes

Children with sleep apnea may have trouble concentrating in school, experience bedwetting, or have worsening asthma symptoms.

What Are the Causes of Sleep Apnea?

The cause of sleep apnea depends on the type a person has. For example, the causes of OSA and CSA will vary. Additionally, not every instance of sleep apnea stems from the same root cause.

Causes of OSA include:

• Relaxation of muscles in the throat
• The tongue falling backward to block the airway
• Accumulation of fat around the upper airway
• Enlarged tonsils or adenoids blocking the airway
• Narrowed airway from certain conditions

Meanwhile, potential causes of CSA are:

• Heart or kidney failure
• Medications such as opioids
• High altitudes
• Neurological conditions
• Stroke or brain infection

Mixed sleep apnea syndrome may result from a mixture of the causes of OSA and CSA.

Who’s at Risk for Sleep Apnea?

Anyone may develop sleep apnea, but certain risk factors make a person more prone to it. These factors include:

• Older age — Studies show that as you age, the more likely you are to experience chronic sleep disorders, including sleep apnea.⁴
• Being male — Men are two to three times more likely than women to be diagnosed with sleep apnea.⁵
• Weight — Having a higher body weight can increase your risk of developing sleep apnea, as it may apply pressure to your airway and narrow it.
• Genetics — Having a family history of sleep apnea puts you at a higher risk.
• Narrowed airway — Some people have a narrower airway than others due to hereditary or other medical conditions. The more narrow your throat, the likelier you are to develop sleep apnea.
• Alcohol use — Alcohol can relax your throat muscles, which is one cause of obstructive sleep apnea.
• Smoking — Research has uncovered a strong correlation between smoking and obstructive sleep apnea.⁶ It can increase inflammation and fluid retention in the airway.
• History of stroke or heart failure — Stroke and heart failure are known causes of central sleep apnea.
• Certain medical conditions — Other medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or hormonal disorders, may raise your likelihood of developing sleep apnea.
• Opioid use — Opioid medications, especially in the long term, can increase your risk of sleep apnea.
• Anatomic traits — Certain anatomic traits, like having a thick neck or large tonsils, may affect your potential for OSA.

What Are the Types of Sleep Apnea

There are three main types of sleep apnea, which have different causes and complications:²

1. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when your airway becomes temporarily blocked, or obstructed, during sleep. It’s the most common type of sleep apnea.

These obstructions can happen when the muscles of the throat relax, or the tongue falls backward to block the throat.

2. Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)

Though less common than OSA, central sleep apnea can have equally severe consequences.³

Central sleep apnea (CSA) occurs when a person’s brain has trouble sending signals to the muscles that control breathing while asleep. This miscommunication results in pauses in breathing, even though the airway remains clear.

3. Mixed Sleep Apnea Syndrome

Mixed sleep apnea syndrome, also called complex sleep apnea, is a blend of OSA and CSA.

People with mixed sleep apnea syndrome typically have the initial symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea. However, after receiving treatment for OSA, symptoms of central sleep apnea may become more noticeable.

Because of its overlapping symptoms, mixed sleep apnea syndrome can be the most challenging of the types to diagnose and treat.

10 Treatments for Sleep Apnea

Treatment for sleep apnea depends on the type and severity of the condition. Common treatment options for sleep apnea include:

1. CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) Machine

Using a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine is the first-line treatment for OSA. This treatment method involves wearing a specialized mask that fits over the nose and mouth while you sleep. The mask attaches to a machine that provides constant air pressure and keeps your airway open.⁸

Many people with sleep apnea notice immediate improvements when they start using a CPAP machine. CPAP therapy can improve sleep quality and reduce or eliminate snoring.

However, they can also be uncomfortable. Some people may experience side effects such as a congested or runny nose, dry mouth, or nosebleeds. Approximately 50% of users become nonadherent over time or may refuse treatment.⁸

2. Auto-CPAP or BiPAP Machine

For people who don’t like the standard CPAP machine, doctors may suggest using a different device, like an auto-CPAP machine. It’s a device that automatically adjusts the pressure as you sleep.

Alternatively, bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) machines use two air pressure settings that provide more pressure on inhalation and less on exhalation.

3. Adaptive Servo-Ventilation (ASV)

This airflow device has a built-in computer that learns and stores your normal breathing pattern. While you sleep, the machine uses pressure to normalize your breathing and prevent breathing interruptions.

ASV might be more effective than other positive airway pressure devices in treating complex sleep apnea. However, ASV is not a suitable option for people with predominantly CSA and/or advanced heart failure.⁵

4. Oral Appliances

Dentists can make custom-fit oral appliances to wear in your mouth while sleeping. Although CPAP machines are more effective, some people with sleep apnea find oral devices easier to use.

There are two primary types and some hybrid devices that have the features of both:

• Mandibular repositioning mouthpieces — These cover the upper and lower teeth, positioning the jaw forward so it cannot block the airway.
• Tongue retaining devices — These appliances hold the tongue forward to prevent it from blocking the airway.

You’ll need to follow up with your dentist regularly when using these devices to ensure the fit remains optimal.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also recently approved an appliance that uses electrical stimulation on the tongue to prevent it from collapsing backward during sleep. It must be worn for 20 minutes daily for 6 weeks to see results.⁹

5. Rapid Maxillary Expansion (RME)

RME is an effective orthodontic treatment for OSA, primarily for children. It’s a technique used to widen or expand the upper jaw if it’s too narrow. This enlarges the size of the nasal cavity and can substantially increase the airflow through the nose.

The procedure involves placing a fixed metal appliance on the upper teeth. The metal framework attaches to metal bands or a plastic splint cemented to the back teeth. In the parts that run across the palate, there’s an expansion screw that gradually widens the upper jaw.

RME is more effective in children since the bone is softer than in older people.

6. Orofacial Therapy

The aim of orofacial therapy is to increase and strengthen muscle tone, endurance, and movement. It consists of specific exercises for the facial muscles.

Training the muscles decreases the likelihood of airway collapse and improves sleep quality. Studies also found that orofacial therapy helps adherence to CPAP treatment.

7. Supplemental Oxygen

Using supplemental oxygen while you sleep may help if you have CSA. It can also help people who don’t prefer CPAP machines.

Supplemental oxygen can prevent hypoxemia or low oxygen levels. However, it doesn’t prevent obstructive events or improve daytime fatigue.¹⁰

8. Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP)

Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) is one of the most common OSA surgical options. It’s an invasive procedure that involves removing soft tissue, including the tonsils, uvula, and part of the soft palate, to enlarge the airways.

Alternatively, doctors can use radiofrequency ablation to shrink the tissues at the rear of the mouth instead of removing them. This avoids the risk of major surgery and has similar benefits to UPPP.

Doctors may not always recommend UPPP to treat sleep apnea, as it doesn’t consistently help. It primarily benefits people with enlarged tonsils and a relatively normal palate.

9. Jaw Advancement Surgery

Maximum mandibular advancement surgery (MMA) is successful in 75 to 100% of cases. It involves moving the upper jaw (maxilla) and lower jaw (mandible) forward, enlarging the airways, and reducing airflow resistance.⁸

Many experts now consider MMA the gold standard in surgical orthodontic treatment for OSA.

However, the surgery is not without risks. Some people experience temporary hearing changes and temporary or permanent facial numbness. The jaw can also return to its original position following surgery.

10. Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation (HGNS)

In this procedure, a surgeon inserts a small electrical stimulation device into the chest wall. The device stimulates the hypoglossal nerve that controls muscles in the tongue. The stimulation rhythm synchronizes with a person’s breathing to relieve upper airway constriction.

This approach doesn’t require permanent alteration of the airway tissues. Research also shows that it’s effective and can decrease OSA symptom scores by 68% following 1 year of use.¹¹

The Importance of Treating Sleep Apnea

Treating any type of sleep apnea is essential to getting a full night’s sleep and avoiding severe health complications that may arise as a result. Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to a host of issues, including:

• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Increased risk of motor vehicle or workplace accidents
• Impaired cognitive function
• Lower job performance
• Exacerbated mood disorders
• Interference with attention and concentration

Early diagnosis and proactive treatment can alleviate symptoms and prevent serious complications from developing. Treating sleep apnea can improve your quality of life and may even extend your life expectancy.

If you have the symptoms of sleep apnea, contact your doctor immediately for evaluation and diagnosis.

How is Sleep Apnea Diagnosed?

A sleep specialist or sleep medicine doctor diagnoses sleep apnea by assessing your symptoms, family history, and medication use.

They may order tests to rule out other medical conditions and request a sleep study to help with their diagnosis.

Sleep Studies for Sleep Apnea Diagnosis

Sleep studies allow medical professionals to monitor your sleep and diagnose any chronic conditions, including sleep apnea.

A sleep study may take place during an overnight stay at a specialized sleep lab. Alternatively, people can use portable monitoring devices in their home.⁷

The study involves placing sensors on the face, eyelids, chest, limbs, and fingers. These sensors measure brainwaves, heart and breathing rates, blood oxygen levels, and muscle movements.

The results may help diagnose sleeping disorders like obstructive sleep apnea or central sleep apnea.

How to Manage Sleep Apnea Naturally

Some people may be able to manage mild sleep apnea with lifestyle changes. Doctors may recommend these options for treating obstructive sleep apnea before trying other treatments.

Tips for managing your sleep apnea naturally include:

• Lose weight if recommended — Weight loss helps reduce fatty tissue that blocks the airways.
• Increase physical activity levels — Exercise boosts oxygen levels and improves sleep quality, improving energy levels.
• Reduce alcohol consumption — Alcohol reduces the tone of the upper airway breathing muscles and can lead to weight gain.
• Quit smoking — Research shows that smoking increases OSA symptoms and daytime sleepiness.⁶
• Avoid strong pain relievers — Medications such as opioids and high-dose benzodiazepines can increase obstructive sleep apnea symptoms. These powerful drugs relax the breathing muscles and slow the breathing rate.
• Change sleeping positions — Some people breathe easier lying on their side. Beds that elevate the head may also help.

If you have severe sleep apnea, you should seek medical advice on further treatment.

Outlook and Prognosis of Sleep Apnea

Untreated sleep apnea stresses the heart, reduces life expectancy by several years, and can directly lead to death. However, effective treatment can control symptoms so that you can lead a normal life without long-term health effects.

Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea

Without treatment, sleep apnea can cause serious health problems, including:

• High blood pressure
• Stroke
• Cardiac arrhythmias
• Enlargement of the heart muscle
• Congestive heart failure and/or heart attacks
• Diabetes
• Obesity

Many people with heart failure or an abnormal heart rate have sleep apnea, as sleep apnea can have serious effects on the body.

Additional serious effects include:

• Hypoxia or low oxygen levels
• Altered carbon dioxide levels
• Pressure changes in the chest that affect the heart
• Increased levels of inflammation

Anyone experiencing these symptoms should schedule an appointment with their doctor as quickly as possible.

Summary

Sleep apnea is a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and restarts. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) involves blockages of the airways, while central sleep apnea (CSA) involves problems with nerve signals.

Treatments such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, oral devices, and surgery effectively treat sleep apnea. Lifestyle changes such as weight loss, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol consumption can also help.

Undiagnosed sleep apnea can cause serious health problems such as high blood pressure, stroke, and heart failure without treatment. Seeking medical help is essential if you’re experiencing sleep apnea symptoms so you can get back to having healthy sleep.