Scientific literature continues to highlight the connection between the health of our mouths and the health of our bodies. For example, there has been extensive research on the profound impact that oral health can have on health risks such as heart disease.

It’s all about balance

Your mouth and the rest of your body are inextricably connected, which means what happens in the mouth can influence every other part of your body as well.  Each person is really an entire ecosystem of microbes and human cells engaged in a beautiful genetic dance. In order to thrive, we must be good stewards of the various microbes that make up our bodies, and not allow them to become out of balance.

What does this have to do with cleaning the tongue?

The mouth is home to many microbes- they live on and between our teeth, as well as on our tongue. These microbes are a healthy and normal thing. However, microbes also make up plaque, and can cause cavities and bad breath. 

If we allow plaque (biofilms of microbes) to stay on our teeth and tongue, they mature and get thicker. And that’s where the trouble starts.

While it’s normal and healthy to have small amounts of microbes living in our mouths, thick biofilms that sit on our teeth and tongue become anaerobic (low-oxygen) environments, and this change allows other, pathogenic (disease-causing) microbes to flourish. These anaerobic microbes can cause an inflammatory cascade in our immune system, affecting areas of our body far beyond our mouth.

How could tongue cleaning lower the risk of heart disease (and other inflammatory conditions)?

The tongue plays a vital role in introducing new material into our entire GI tract (our digestive system). So, maintaining a thin biofilm on the tongue is important if we want to avoid continuously harboring and swallowing inflammation-causing microbes. This means we need to regularly clean our tongue and make sure the biofilm there does not thicken and begin to cause negative effects like inflammation.

Why brushing the tongue isn’t cleaning the tongue

Brushing the tongue is somewhat helpful, but it’s just not as thorough as cleaning (scraping) the tongue. Scraping the tongue is more effective in removing the harmful bacteria from the mouth.

Causes of bad breath.

The tongue is home to the majority of microbes that cause bad breath.

So, by cleaning your tongue daily, not only will you support both your ‘in-the-mouth’ and ‘whole-body’ health, but you’ll also naturally freshen your breath. 

“Can cleaning your tongue help reduce the risk of heart disease, arthritis, and other inflammatory issues?”, Ora Wellness. https://orawellness.com/can-cleaning-your-tongue-help-reduce-heart-disease/

Our mouths contain bacteria that use sugars in the foods we eat and the beverages we drink, to produce an acid that harms our teeth. 

Fluoride protects our teeth and is an important mineral, especially for children. However, too much fluoride can cause something called dental fluorosis which can harm our teeth. 

Dental fluorosis results in a slight change in the look of the teeth, usually in the form of very faint white markings. Typically, the fluorosis seen in the US is a mild form that does not cause pain and does not affect the health or function of teeth. Fluorosis only occurs when fluoride is consumed before the age of 8, while permanent teeth are still forming under the gums. 

When we help our children brush their teeth, it’s important to use toothpaste with fluoride to help protect their teeth, but it’s also important that they spit out the toothpaste, rather than swallow it. Make sure to read the directions on all children’s toothpaste products to know how much toothpaste to put on their toothbrush. A good general rule is children under three should use a thin smear, and children over 3 should use an amount the size of a pea. Young children should not use mouthwash or mouth rinse.

There are many conflicting theories around dental fluorosis and that’s why you need to turn to trusted voices to help you determine what you need to know for yourself and your family. This is where your family dentist plays an important role. Start regular dentist visits for your child by their first birthday. Children who consume a typical diet, drink fluoridated water, and use fluoridated dental products properly will get the fluoride they need for healthy teeth and are no more at risk of fluorosis now than children were 20 years ago.

“What You Need to Know About Fluorosis Today”, Campaign for Dental Health.

What You Need to Know About Fluorosis Today

The key to a vibrant, confident smile begins with top-notch dental care, and West Chester Center for Dentistry is your trusted partner in achieving just that. Nestled in the heart of West Chester, Ohio, our dental practice stands out for its commitment to excellence, modern techniques, and personalized patient care.

About West Chester Center for Dentistry:

• Website: https://www.wccdentistry.com/
• Email: office@westchesterdentalcincinnati.com
• Phone: (513) 759-4485
• Address: 7798 Discovery Dr, # D, West Chester, OH 45069

Our blog today delves into what sets Our Dental Office apart and why you should consider us for all your dental needs.

Why Choose West Chester Center for Dentistry?

1. Experienced Team: Our dental office is home to a team of experienced and highly skilled professionals. With years of experience in the field, our dentists and staff are committed to staying at the forefront of dental advancements to offer you the best care possible.
2. Comprehensive Services: From routine check-ups and cleanings to more complex cosmetic and restorative procedures, we offer a wide range of dental services to cater to all your needs. We’re your one-stop destination for all things dental.
3. State-of-the-Art Facilities: We take pride in maintaining a modern and comfortable dental office. Equipped with the latest dental technology, we ensure that you receive the highest standard of care.
4. Personalized Care: At West Chester Center for Dentistry, we recognize that each patient is unique. We take the time to understand your specific needs and develop a personalized treatment plan to address them effectively.

Our Commitment to Your Dental Health

When you choose West Chester Center for Dentistry, you’re not just choosing a dental office; you’re choosing a partner in your journey to a healthier, more beautiful smile. We offer:

• Friendly and professional staff who are ready to assist you at every step of your dental experience.
• Comprehensive examinations to identify any dental issues and discuss treatment options.
• Clear explanations of your treatment plan, including cost estimates and timelines.
• A dedication to delivering high-quality dental care and helping you maintain optimal oral health.

Contact West Chester Center for Dentistry

For a dental office in West Chester, Ohio that you can trust, reach out to us today. You can schedule an appointment by calling (513) 759-4485 or emailing us at office@westchesterdentalcincinnati.com. Our convenient location at 7798 Discovery Dr, # D, West Chester, OH 45069, ensures easy access for local residents.

Your smile deserves the best care. Choose West Chester Center for Dentistry for top-quality dental care and embark on the path to a healthier, more confident you. Your radiant smile begins with us.

You may have sensitive teeth, if the taste of ice cream or a sip of hot coffee is sometimes a painful experience.

Possible causes include:

• Tooth decay (cavities)
• Fractured teeth
• Worn fillings
• Gum disease
• Worn tooth enamel
• Exposed tooth root

In healthy teeth, a layer of enamel protects the crowns of your teeth—the part above the gum line. Under the gum line, a layer called cementum protects the tooth root. Underneath both the enamel and the cementum is dentin.

Dentin is less dense than enamel and cementum and contains microscopic tubules (small hollow tubes or canals). When dentin loses its protective covering of enamel or cementum these tubules allow heat and cold or acidic or sticky foods to reach the nerves and cells inside the tooth. Dentin may also be exposed when gums recede. The result can be hypersensitivity.

Sensitive teeth can be treated. The type of treatment will depend on what is causing the sensitivity. Your dentist may suggest one of a variety of treatments:

• Desensitizing toothpaste. This contains compounds that help block transmission of sensation from the tooth surface to the nerve, and usually requires several applications before the sensitivity is reduced.
• Fluoride gel. An in-office technique which strengthens tooth enamel and reduces the transmission of sensations.
• A crown, inlay, or bonding. These may be used to correct a flaw or decay in a tooth that is causing sensitivity.
• Surgical gum graft. If gum tissue has been lost from the root, this will protect the root and reduce sensitivity.
• Root canal. If sensitivity is severe and persistent and cannot be treated by other means, your dentist may recommend this treatment to eliminate the problem.

Proper oral hygiene is the key to preventing sensitive tooth pain. Ask your dentist if you have any questions about your daily oral hygiene routine or concerns about tooth sensitivity.

“What Causes Sensitive Teeth” American Dental Association. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/s/sensitive-teeth