Spirit Dental Blog

Although dental problems might become more of an issue when you’re older, it’s important to know that children can also be impacted by oral health ailments. By being aware of the risks, you can take steps to help your kids maintain strong teeth and gums.  What are some of the common dental problems that kids might develop? Below is a short list of a few things to watch out for as your little one grows.  Cavities are common in kids The CDC has stated that around 20% of kids between the ages of 5 and 11 have at least one tooth with decay that hasn’t been treated. And if the decay is left to progress, a child might end up with an infection, in addition to tooth pain and trouble chewing. Just like you can work toward preventing cavities in your own teeth, you can help your child keep their teeth healthy and strong by instilling good habits like daily brushing and flossing. In the event that a cavity does develop, your child’s dentist might recommend a filling to restore the strength of the tooth. Or, the dentist might recommend treatments like sealants to help prevent decay before it forms.    Note: Even baby teeth can develop cavities. And if a baby tooth has extensive decay, to the point that the tooth falls out or needs to be extracted long before it would’ve naturally fallen out, nearby teeth might shift, potentially making it harder for the permanent tooth to come in straight. Just another reason to work on preventing cavities!  Gum disease can affect kids, too If your child has bad breath that won’t go away or if their gums bleed, they might have gum disease. While it might be hard to believe that someone so young could end up with this problem, if your little one doesn’t maintain a good oral hygiene routine, plaque can turn into tartar, and the gums can be affected. Also, some kids are more susceptible to gum disease because of various factors, such as their diet, other health problems, or bruxism. The scary thing about gum disease is that it doesn’t just affect the gums and cause them to become inflamed and sore; it can also damage the structures that support teeth and keep them in place. In other words, your child’s teeth might end up falling out if the gum disease isn’t treated with the help of a dentist.  Certain habits might lead to misaligned teeth Sometimes, a child’s teeth don’t grow in straight, or there might not be enough room in the mouth for all of the teeth to be aligned properly. But misaligned teeth might also occur if poor habits develop. For example, if a child continues sucking their thumb once their permanent teeth have started to erupt, it might cause changes to the alignment of the teeth or bite. Other habits that might also result in changes to the bite or teeth alignment are lip sucking and tongue thrusting. So, if your child is exhibiting those habits, talk to your dentist for advice on how to get them to stop before any damage is done.  Get your child used to going to the dentist on a regular basis The sooner you can get your child used to going to the dentist, the better. That way, they can be comfortable with the idea of having their mouth examined, and you’ll be able to catch problems in their earliest stages. Although there are some dental issues that are quite common, rest assured that treatment options are available, and your dentist can steer you in the right direction.  Want to be sure you’ll be able to afford your child’s trips to the dentist and any treatments that might be necessary to ensure their smile will be bright? Check out the family dental plans offered by Spirit, including those that provide coverage for orthodontics, to see how much you could potentially save.          Sources: https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/basics/childrens-oral-health/index.html https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/oral-health-problems-children https://www.perio.org/consumer/gum-disease-and-children https://www.mykoolsmiles.com/content/kids-dental-problems/ https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=90&contentid=p01865  

The lens of your eye, which is located behind the iris, is normally clear, allowing for light to pass through so you can see well. But when a cataract forms on the lens, it causes it to become cloudy or foggy, inhibiting the amount of light that can get through. And that results in changes in your vision because your eye isn’t able to focus like it should.  Cataracts are a common problem, and many seniors end up needing surgery to replace the lens and restore vision in one or both eyes. Being aware of the causes may help you take steps to reduce the risk of cataracts, while being familiar with the symptoms can help you recognize the problem if it develops, so we cover both the causes and symptoms of cataracts below.  What can cause cataracts? You might develop a cataract simply as a result of the aging process. Basically, as you get older, the lens changes and the proteins in it break down. As they clump together, those proteins can cause clouding.   These changes to the lens might start when you’re around 40 years old, but you might not notice a problem until years later. That’s right: a cataract can progress over time, making the cloudiness—and your vision—worse.   In addition to being a part of the aging process, there are certain conditions, medications, injuries, and habits that might lead to cataracts or speed up their development. Here are some examples: Diabetes Certain genetic disorders Other eye problems Eye injury (the cataract might even form years after an injury!) Certain medications, such as steroids  Radiation treatment, particularly to the upper part of the body Exposing the eyes to too much sunlight by not wearing sunglasses or hats Drinking a lot of alocohol Smoking What are the symptoms of cataracts? When a cataract is first forming, you might not realize that there’s a problem. Over time, though, as the cataract expands and covers more of the lens, you may start to notice changes in your vision.  Here are some of the ways in which your vision might change because of cataracts: Blurriness Vision that’s described as foggy, hazy, or cloudy Faced colors Difficulty seeing at night Needing more light for doing things like reading Double vision Halos or glare surrounding lights Sensitivity to lights (such as from lamps or sunlight), which might appear brighter than they should The need to change your prescription more often than usual  Your eye doctor can be there to help you see clearly again Keep in mind that cataracts symptoms may come on slowly because this condition typically develops slowly. And it’s important to talk to an eye doctor as soon as you notice changes in your vision so you can figure out if a cataract is to blame.  At first, your eye doctor might recommend changing your prescription to cope with the changes caused by a cataract. But if it gets to the point that you’re finding it really hard to see clearly and do things like drive or read, your doctor might recommend surgery to remove the cataract and prevent further vision loss.  Take great care of your eyes with the help of vision insurance! A last note: the symptoms caused by cataracts might also be associated with other conditions, so it’s critical that you get the right diagnosis and pursue the best treatment to save your vision. Again, don’t hesitate to talk about your symptoms and have your eyes carefully examined by a professional.  If you’re concerned about being able to afford trips to the eye doctor, Spirit is here to help. With the right vision insurance, you can worry less about the cost of eye exams and prescription glasses or contacts, so you won’t need to waste any time when you need to address changes in your vision.          Sources: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8589-cataracts https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cataracts/symptoms-causes/syc-20353790 https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/cataracts https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/cataracts/causes-cataract https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/cataracts https://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/cataracts.htm

A cavity is probably the first thing that comes to mind when you think about the most common dental problems, right? Most people will end up with at least one cavity in their life. And, sometimes, patients don’t even know they have cavities until their dentist tells them! If you’ve been diagnosed with a cavity and it’s the first time you’ll be getting a filling, you might be nervous. That’s totally normal! But the good news is that this procedure isn’t complicated and doesn’t take much time. Keep reading to learn about cavity fillings and the procedure that your dentist will use to restore your pearly whites.  What are the different types of cavity fillings? There’s more than one type of filling your dentist can use to fix a cavity. The two most well-known are amalgam and composite, but other filling materials include ceramic, gold, and glass ionomer.   You can discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each option to pick the one that’s best for you. For instance, because of the way they look, amalgam fillings are also known as silver fillings, but they’re actually made of several materials, including mercury, silver, copper, and tin. These fillings might last a long time, and they’re usually more affordable than other options. On the other hand, composite fillings, which are made of resin and glass, won’t be noticeable because your dentist will match the color of the filling to the rest of the tooth. However, they typically don’t last as long as amalgam, and they’ll likely be pricier.  What can you expect during a cavity filling procedure? Cavity fillings can be done in just a few steps, and it might take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour, depending on factors like the tooth that’s being worked on, the type of filling that’s used, and the size of the cavity.  Your dentist can ensure you won’t feel any pain by using a local anesthetic that will completely numb the area of your mouth that’s being worked on. Plus, if you’re really anxious, you can also ask your dentist about sedation options.  Here are the basic steps involved in filling a cavity: After numbing the gums with a special gel and injecting a local anesthetic into the gums, your dentist will ensure you don’t feel any sensation before using tools, such as a drill, to remove all of the decay from the tooth. Once all of the decay has been cleared away, the dentist will apply the filling. If you’re getting a composite filling, it may take a bit longer than amalgam because of the extra step of hardening the filling using a special light. Once the filling is in place, your dentist will make adjustments and polish it to be sure it fits comfortably and doesn’t affect your bite.  What happens after a cavity filling procedure? The anesthetic that was used to numb your mouth will gradually wear off after the procedure is complete. Then, you might feel totally fine or you might experience sensitivity or soreness, which might last a few days. Let your dentist know about your symptoms to be sure they’re normal. If necessary, they might recommend taking a pain relieving medication.  Your dentist will also give you any instructions you need to properly care for your teeth after a filling. For example, you might be told to avoid chewing on the side of the mouth that was worked on for a certain period of time, or you might need to avoid certain types of foods and drinks.  If you experience pain after a filling or you develop other symptoms, such as fever, swelling, red gums, or extreme sensitivity, let your dentist know. Also, if discomfort persists after a filling, it might need to be adjusted further to make it fit better or there might be another problem that needs to be addressed. So, don’t be reluctant to contact your dentist! Note: Fillings don’t last forever. Unfortunately, they usually need to be replaced after several years. In addition to general wear that occurs over time, if decay develops in the same tooth again or if the filling is damaged in some way, it will need to be replaced.  Dental insurance can help make fillings more affordable! Taking awesome care of your teeth is the best way to avoid needing a filling in the first place. Brush and floss daily, and go for checkups at the dentist’s office to find out if you have any cavities, even if you aren’t experiencing any symptoms.  The right dental insurance can help you afford trips to the dentist to have your chompers checked for decay and catch problems in their earliest stages. Plus, this insurance can also help cover the cost of fillings. Check out the many options available from Spirit to find the plan that’s right for you!       Sources: https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/cavities-tooth-decay/cavity-fillings-what-to-expect-types-problems https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/dental-devices/dental-amalgam-fillings https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/cavity-filling https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/cavities/cavity-fillings-do-they-hurt  

Vitamin C is known for supporting your immune system, but here’s something you might not know about this vital nutrient: it can also support your dental health! That’s right, getting enough vitamin C is a smart move if you want to keep your gums and pearly whites strong. Check out the information below to learn more.  Do Your Gums Bleed? You Might Need More Vitamin C Researchers have found that, in addition to brushing, flossing, and seeing your dentist regularly, another important step that may help support the health and strength of your gums is getting enough vitamin C.  What happens if you don’t have enough vitamin C in your blood? Well, you might end up with gum problems. More specifically, you might be at a greater risk of bleeding gums, which is a symptom of gingivitis. In that case, increasing the level of vitamin C in the body might help resolve these issues.  If your gums are bleeding or you are experiencing other gum problems, talk to your dentist, and consider consulting with your physician as well. They can help you determine if you’re deficient in this vitamin, and can also give you advice on how to bring the level up safely, if necessary.   Where Can You Get Vitamin C? Water-soluble vitamins like vitamin C aren’t stored in your body, so you need to get enough of it daily to maintain the right amount of it in your system.   The good news is there are a lot of delicious foods that can provide plenty of vitamin C. Eating a nutritious and balanced diet that consists of various fruits and veggies is a great place to start.  Here are some examples of foods that contain vitamin C: Citrus fruits, such as oranges Carrots Cantaloupe Berries Kiwi Sweet potatoes Spinach Kale Red peppers Broccoli Note: Even though you can also get vitamin C from fruit juice like orange juice, it’s a good idea to enjoy it in moderation because it may be acidic and high in sugar—not good for your chompers! You can also take vitamin C supplements In addition to getting this vitamin from your diet, you can take a high-quality vitamin C supplement. Or, you might decide to take a multivitamin that provides enough of this nutrient. This simple step may help ensure that, no matter what you eat, you’re getting enough of this vitamin on a consistent basis.  How Much Vitamin C Should You Aim to Get Daily?   Experts recommend that adult men get around 90 mg of vitamin C every day. On the other hand, adult women can aim to get around 75 mg each day.   If you want to take a vitamin C supplement to help support your gums, you might consider taking one that provides anywhere from 100-200 mg of vitamin C daily. But the amount you need may depend on various factors. For example, you might need more vitamin C if you’re following a low-carb diet. To figure out just how much is right for you, consult with your doctor for personalized guidance. He or she might check your current level to determine how much you need to get from a supplement. Plus, your doctor can also share valuable tips on how you can improve your diet.    Talk to Your Dentist About Vitamin C If Your Gums Bleed Easily Bleeding gums is a symptom that should be addressed, so don’t hesitate to discuss this problem with your dentist as soon as possible. By figuring out the cause—whether it’s a low level of vitamin C or not—you can receive the right treatment and prevent further damage. Bottom line: brush, floss, and keep an eye out for gum irritation, inflammation, or bleeding. Also, improving and supplementing your diet so you get adequate amounts of vitamin C every day might make a big difference in the health of your teeth and gums.      Sources: https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/nutrition-and-oral-health/5-essential-vitamins-for-teeth-and-gum-health https://oralb.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/gums/vitamin-c-calcium-oral-health/ https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/can-increasing-vitamin-c-intake-help-stop-bleeding-gums https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/threats-to-dental-health/how-acidic-drinks-affect-teeth https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/bleeding-gums-you-may-need-more-vitamin-c

If you’ve ever had a canker sore, you know how annoying and painful they can be. But what exactly are they, what causes them, and are there any ways to prevent them? Keep reading to learn all about this common oral health ailment.  What Are Canker Sores? Canker sores are ulcers or lesions that are described as shallow, small, and oval or round. In terms of their color, they’ll typically be white, yellow, or gray, and there’s also some redness surrounding the sore.  These sores develop in the mouth, such as on the inside of the lips or cheeks, at the base of the gums, on the soft palate, and on the tongue. The good news is these sores aren’t contagious, and they generally heal on their own. But while you have them, they can be painful to the point that you have trouble talking or chewing.  Note: Minor canker sores are often small and may heal in a week or two, while major canker sores are bigger and may take several weeks to heal.   What Causes a Canker Sore? Experts aren’t really sure what causes canker sores, but certain things might trigger their development. Here are some examples: Stress Hormonal changes Mouth injury (this might be caused by brushing too hard or by accidentally biting the inside of your cheek, as a couple examples) Acidic or spicy foods, or any foods that you’re sensitive to A lack of adequate zinc, iron, folate, or vitamin B12 Irritation caused by sodium lauryl sulfate, an ingredient commonly found in toothpaste and mouthwash Irritation caused by braces, dentures, or other dental appliances Other interesting things to keep in mind about canker sores: If people in your family get canker sores often, you might too.  Certain conditions, such as IBD and celiac disease, might cause canker sores.  These sores aren’t caused by the herpes virus.  How Can You Treat a Canker Sore? Though they can cause quite a bit of discomfort, you don’t necessarily need to do anything to treat a canker sore, as it usually goes away on its own.  However, if you want to get some relief, you can try over-the-counter products like Orajel. You can also consult your doctor or dentist to discuss options like prescription mouthwashes if you have a large canker sore that’s causing a lot of pain.     In addition to avoiding triggers like acidic foods and beverages that could make the discomfort worse, you can also try rinsing your mouth with a mixture of water and baking soda or water and hydrogen peroxide. And it’s also wise to brush your teeth as gently as possible to avoid further irritation.    Note: If your symptoms are severe, your sore is really big or isn’t healing, you have a lot of sores that keep coming back, or you have other symptoms (e.g. fever), it’s best to talk to your doctor to figure out how to tackle the problem.  Can You Prevent Canker Sores? Here are some simple steps you can take to help prevent the occurrence of unpleasant canker sores: To avoid irritating your mouth, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to thoroughly and gently clean your teeth. And don’t forget to brush and floss daily! Because chewing on gum might cause irritation, avoiding it may be helpful when it comes to preventing canker sores. Test things out to see if you can figure out your triggers. Do you tend to get canker sores after eating a lot of spicy food? Or, you might try switching to products that don’t contain sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) to see if that’s the irritant you need to avoid. Eat a balanced diet, and take supplements if necessary, to ensure you aren’t deficient in any key nutrients. And practice stress-relieving techniques to keep your mind in a balanced and positive state as well.  Can a Dentist Help If You Have Canker Sores? Yes! Your dentist might be able to give you valuable tips about what to do to treat and prevent canker sores. Also, if your canker sores are caused by a dental appliance that needs to be adjusted, or by one or more teeth that have sharp surfaces, your dentist can fix those problems for you. Just more great reasons to have a high-quality dental plan in place! So, to summarize: you generally don’t need to be too worried about canker sores, but don’t hesitate to see your dentist if they’re causing a lot of pain or aren’t healing properly.  Sources: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10945-canker-sores https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/mouth-sores-and-infections/how-to-prevent-canker-sores https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/canker-sore/symptoms-causes/syc-20370615 https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/how-to-get-rid-of-canker-sores#alum-powder