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New Year, New Dental Hygiene Habits | Ottawa Dentist

Now that we have begun 2022, it is important to know that change is afoot for many of us. We all have some goals set for the new year, and many of them have to do with health. Unfortunately, many of us forget about our dental health when making these changes. But it’s true – dental health should be a top priority because our general health is directly linked to our dental one. And the first step? A clean toothbrush. 

The best way to limit the bacteria in your mouth is to brush your teeth. And what do we use to do this? A toothbrush. But if you’re neglecting your toothbrush, it begins to neglect you. The best way to keep those cavity creeps away is to replace your toothbrush on a regular basis. In fact, we need to swap out our toothbrushes every three to four months. If the bristles become frayed, you’re sick, or you have a weak immune system, it’s time to exchange our toothbrush. If you use an electric toothbrush, throw out the head as often as you’d discard a disposable toothbrush. 

As for habits, start and close each day with a clean mouth. Because every time you’re tempted to skip brushing and flossing your teeth, remember that bacteria lurk in your mouth – and that they cause gum disease, and decay, and bad breath. Make sure you’re brushing and flossing as often as possible to eliminate some of those bacteria. Rinsing your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash before or after brushing can also help reduce plaque-causing bacteria that can lead to early forms of gum disease. It’s a new year – why not start with a healthy smile? 

Schedule your appointment today. Call Dr. Doumit in Ottawa, Ontario at 613-232-8000 or visit www.urbandentalcentre.com.

Dr. Katia Doumit proudly serves Ottawa and all surrounding areas.

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Your Asthma May Be Giving You Dental Issues | Ottawa Dentist

Do you suffer from asthma? Don’t worry – this isn’t a judgement. Asthma is very common. It’s so common that roughly 339 million people worldwide suffer from this inflammatory disease that narrows and inflames your airways to the point that it is difficult to breath. But did you know that asthma can also lead to future dental problems? It’s true. And this is why you need to pay extra special attention to your dental health if you suffer from this affliction. Patients with asthma can experience a number of triggers, from weather conditions to airborne irritants like pollen and pet dander. When it causes issues breathing, it is likely you will use an inhaler. These inhalers are repressing salivary glands and limiting saliva production, causing you to experience dry mouth. Dry mouth allows for damaging bacteria to remain in our mouths and cause damage, like plaque build-up – and plaque is the beginning stages of bad breath, tooth decay and gum disease. Don’t worry – asthma isn’t the end of your great smile. But it is the beginning of an improvement to your daily dental hygiene routine. After you use your inhaler, rinse your mouth out with water. Not only will you kickstart saliva production, but you will rinse away any sugar your inhaler may be sweetened with to make it easier to use. In fact, drinking enough water and snacking on fruits like apples are great for increasing saliva production and reducing dry mouth. But above all else, keep up with your dental hygiene. Brush for two minutes, floss and rinse with fluoride mouthwash daily, but most importantly, keep your dental appointments. They are the only ones that can ensure you’re doing a good job. If you would like more information about the effects of asthma, call Dr. Katia Doumit in Ottawa, Ontario at 613-232-8000 or visit www.lesplanadedental.com. Dr. Doumit proudly serves Ottawa and all surrounding areas.
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Care for a Mint? | Ottawa Dentist

As we prepare to attend all of the holiday events of the season, we are sure to look our best. After all, social gatherings are made for taking photos and catching up with friends and relatives. But are you making sure your breath is also party-friendly? Bad breath can not only affect your social status but can cause other dental issues as well. So, how can we prevent it from happening?

Bad breath is commonly caused by our diet – those onions and garlic dishes can turn any mouth into a smelly cavern, but bacteria is the main issue we should be aware of when it comes to bad breath detection. Removing the bacteria from your mouth is essential to keeping bad breath at bay and maintain good health overall.

If you find that you have been a victim of dragon breath, you can rectify the situation with proper dental hygiene. When brushing, make it a point to brush your tongue as well as every tooth, because it is possible for bacteria to get inside the gums and cause gum infections, gum disease and even tooth loss. If you aren’t sure you are doing a good job, your dentist will be able to direct you in the right direction when you show up for your regular checkups. So, if you want clean fresh breath and a healthy smile, make sure you take care of your teeth. It is necessary to always brush and floss as often as possible throughout the day. If a toothbrush isn’t readily available, pop in a stick of sugar-free gum until one is available.

If you would like more information about bad breath, call Dr. Katia Doumit in Ottawa, Ontario at 613-232-8000 or visit www.lesplanadedental.com.

Dr. Doumit proudly serves Ottawa and all surrounding areas.

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Oral Cancer: Signs and Symptoms | Ottawa Dentist

When we hear the “C-word”, we are always sent into a state of shock. Because there are so many factors that can contribute to developing oral cancer, so knowing some of the signs and symptoms you should keep an eye out for can help to diagnose the problem quickly and find some type of treatment. If you find that you have any of these symptoms, make an appointment with your dental professional to get a proper examination.

Lumps and lesions. If you notice red or white sores on or inside your mouth, it’s important to see a dentist as they will have difficulty healing, making it a perfect bed for bacteria, etc. Finding lumps or swollen areas in your throat or cheeks can cause painful issues closing your mouth.

Dysphagia. Dysphagia, or problems swallowing, will not only cause problems breathing but can also cause you to contract infection. If you feel a lump in your throat, or you find you are losing weight because of issues swallowing, make an appointment.

Numbness. Any numbness in the mouth or chin is cause for concern, so if you find this is a new constant, it’s time for an examination.

Tooth loss. If you find that you have loose teeth for no apparent reason, you may be developing early signs of oral cancer. Tooth decay and gum disease are signs you may be subject to oral cancer in the future, so see a dentist asap.

Bad breath. There are many reasons you have bad breath. If you find that it is a chronic problem, seek advice from your dental professional.

If you would like more information about oral cancer, call Dr. Katia Doumit in Ottawa, Ontario at 613-232-8000 or visit www.lesplanadedental.com.

Dr. Doumit proudly serves Ottawa and all surrounding areas.

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You Can Run, but You Can’t Hide | Ottawa Dentist

If you’re like most of us, before your teeth cleaning is time for a college cram session worth of dental hygiene. While cavities and plaque build-up may be what’s on your mind before a teeth cleaning, your dentist is looking for a whole lot more. Often, diseases will first be identified by the dentist during a regular examination. And unfortunately, can discover all of your bad habits. So, when coming up with “proof” you’re taking care of your teeth, think again…

Poor flossing habits. Sorry, but you can’t fool your dentist into thinking you floss daily by doing so the night before or morning of your visit.

Pregnancy. Nearly 40% of women will develop gingivitis during their pregnancy because of the changes in hormones. Some women will develop a deep red lump on their gums, but it’s completely benign and will go away after the pregnancy is over.

Thumb sucking. Children that suck their thumbs past the age of seven or eight may show significant changes to their bite or the position of their teeth.

Bad breath. Dentists are trained to identify different smells in breath as various scents can mean various health issues that may not have been diagnosed.

Eating disorders. Bulimia exhibits a very distinct pattern of tooth wear. Acid reflux and the use of antidepressants or mood-elevating drugs reduce the amount of saliva, also causing acid damage.

Oral cancer detection. Oral cancer symptoms: unexplained bleeding, white, red, or speckled patches, a change in the way your teeth fit together, swellings, thickenings, lumps or bumps or eroded areas on the mouth.

Soda & energy drinks. Teeth can be softened by sodas and other sugary beverages, making teeth more susceptible to chipping. Energy drinks are more acidic than soft drinks, causing even more damage to tooth enamel.

If you would like more information about dental examinations, call Dr. Katia Doumit in Ottawa, Ontario at 613-232-8000 or visit www.lesplanadedental.com.

Dr. Doumit proudly serves Ottawa and all surrounding areas.