More Dental Patients Visiting General Practitioners

People with dental problems aren’t necessarily going to the dentist as much as they did in the past.

A recent study shows that general practitioners are seeing patients with dental issues on an increasing basis in the United Kingdom. According to a recent survey, 87 percent of general practitioners feel under pressure to deal with dental health problems, such as toothaches or mouth ulcers.

With more people seeking medical care in the United Kingdom, the general practitioners are dealing with the issue of trying to fit in all of their patients. The other problem is that these physicians don’t have the training or knowledge to deal with oral problems, whereas dentists can provide the specific treatment for each condition.

Dentists are also more likely to notice oral cancer or even signs of oral cancer. It’s important for people to be aware of the possible signs of this type cancer and take advantage of the screening programs.
November is Mouth Cancer Action Month in the United Kingdom.

 

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Link May Exist Between Oral Health and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Portable X-ray Machine

Poor oral health may cause rheumatoid arthritis, based on a new study.

Researchers from the University of Louisville determined that poor oral health can raise the risk of rheumatoid arthritis based on the presence of an enzyme that is around when a person has gum disease. This enzyme, called peptidylarginine deiminanse, has also been associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition in which one’s joints become swollen and painful.

The problem with this enzyme is that it results in the body transforming some proteins into a form of protein called citrulline. The body often confuses citrulline and thinks it will cause problems and attacks it as a result. This produces inflammation in people who deal with autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

Previous studies have pointed to links between oral health and rheumatoid arthritis, with many determining that the problem is more widespread among people with gum disease.

The researchers analyzed other forms of oral bacteria and concluded that none had any impact on rheumatoid arthritis.
More research on the relationship between oral health and rheumatoid arthritis could prove to be valuable. There is also a large amount of evidence that connects oral health and systemic problems. Many studies have shown the correlation between gum disease and a higher risk of stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, heart disease and numerous other health problems.(Portable X-ray Machine)

10 tips to look after your teeth

Marathon Micro Motor
Marathon Micro Motor

Good oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist will help you maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Here are some tips to help you look after your teeth.

1. Brush at least twice a day. The best time to brush teeth is after meals. Choose a toothbrush with a small head for better access to back teeth. Soft bristles are kinder on your gums.

2. Use fluoridated toothpaste. Fluoride helps to harden tooth enamel and reduces your risk of decay.

3.Brush thoroughly. Tooth brushing should take between two and three minutes.

4.Floss your teeth daily. Use a slow and gentle sawing motion.

5. Limit acidic drinks like soft drinks, cordials and fruit juices. Food acids soften tooth material and dissolve the minerals in tooth enamel, causing holes (Marathon Micro Motor). In severe cases, teeth may be ‘eaten’ right down to the gum.

6.Limit sugary foods. Bacteria in dental plaque change sugars into acids.

7.Protect your teeth from injury. Wear a mouthguard or full-face helmet when playing sports.

8.Try to save a knocked out tooth. If possible, hold the tooth back in place while you seek immediate dental advice. If this is not possible, wrap the tooth in plastic or place it in milk and seek dental advice immediately.

9.Avoid using your teeth for anything other than chewing food. If you use them to crack nuts, remove bottle tops or rip open packaging, you risk chipping or even breaking your teeth.

10.See your dentist for regular check-ups. You should also visit your dentist if you have a dental problem such as a toothache or bleeding gums.