How to Improve Your Oral Microbiome
Understanding Oral Microbiome Communities
The idea of billions of microbes and bacteria living in your mouth may seem like a scary thought. In reality, these microscopic entities work hard to create a symbiotic environment for both them and you. Around 300 different species of microbes live in your mouth, all working in harmony to create communities called biofilms. Depending on your eating habits and oral care, this may or may not be a good thing. Biofilms left to develop with little oral care and poor eating habits can lead to an excess of bad bacteria, throwing off the balance of your entire oral microbiome. Various health conditions can be traced back to an upset microbiome, from infected gums to Irritable Bowel Syndrome, you never know what could be affected by a dirty mouth. In this blog, we discuss how to improve your oral microbiome.
How Diet Affects Your Oral Microbiome
- Just like us, microbes need to eat, making the mouth the perfect home. This also means that whatever you eat, your microbes eat too.
- According to an article by the Genomic Medicine Group, when we eat foods with high amounts of added sugar and refined flour, certain microbes in the mouth convert those sugars to acid. The newly created acid then erodes tooth enamel and overwhelms the mouth with bad bacteria.
- Via your saliva, this bad bacteria can easily travel to your gut, enter your bloodstream, and affect other areas of the body.
Maintaining a Healthy Oral Microbiome
- Doctors recommend controlling the amount of sugary/processed foods you consume and insist on a daily oral care regimen that includes brushing twice a day, flossing, drinking plenty of water, and receiving regular dental checkups.
- Fluoride treatments can be used for advanced cases but it does run the risk of inhibiting good bacteria along with the bad.
At the end of the day, a healthy microbiome does not depend on getting rid of all of the bad and only having healthy bacteria. The truth is that your oral microbiome needs a ton of diversity to perform how it’s supposed to. As long as you manage your sugar intake and take daily care of your oral health, your microbiome will flourish and your mouth will be better for it!
Introduction to Different Types of Dentures
Dentures: What Is Your Best Option?
Many aspects need to be considered when choosing which type of dentures you want and require. With three different types of dentures available to you, there are advantages and disadvantages for all. So, let’s go over all your options and figure out which one will suit you best.
The traditional denture has been used for many centuries. Traditional dentures are no longer considered to be up to the standards of care since dentures have become so mainstream in dentistry. Traditional denture users will have a significant loss of bone and gum support, which will result in facial drooping, sagging skin, and the look of early aging. The following are a few benefits and drawbacks:
- The least expensive of the three types
- Can look nice
- Better than having nothing
- Hard to eat with & they move around a lot
- Can feel bulky in your mouth
- Large loss of taste and temperature sensations due to the roof of the mouth being covered
- Needs frequent realignment and repairs
Implant Snap-On Dentures
The most popular choice for people seeking to replace their missing teeth is the implant snap-on denture. Compared to a traditional denture, this option snaps into place and is far more stable, less bulky, and doesn’t cover the roof of your mouth. For simple cleaning, the denture can be taken out. Additionally, the use of implants stops future bone loss, early aging, and facial drooping. The following are the benefits and drawbacks of this form of denture:
- The most affordable implant option
- Huge upgrade over traditional dentures
- Prevents bone loss and premature aging
- Improves ability to taste things
- Still has some movement
- Comes out at night
Implant-Supported Permanent Teeth
Implant-supported dentures are a full set of upper or lower teeth that are permanently attached to dental implants and are screwed into dental bridges. This option is the closest we have to the feel and function of your own teeth. These bridges may not be removed by you, only your dentist. Of all the alternatives, this bridge has the most natural-feeling bite and chewing characteristics. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages:
- Made of strong material
- Natural feel
- Best biting and chewing function
- Stays in the mouth all the time
- Can be difficult to clean
- Will require maintenance over time
- Most expensive option
Speaking to your dentist about the best option for you and your lifestyle is important. If you have any more questions about the differences between these options and what the process may look like, contact Harriman Family Dental in Harriman, NY. We’d be happy to help you regain your smile.
What Issues Can Invisalign® Treatment Fix?
Enhance Your Smile with Invisalign® Treatment: A Comprehensive Guide
Invisalign® has transformed the landscape of orthodontic treatment, providing a discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional braces. The clear aligner system enables individuals to improve their smiles without the discomfort often associated with braces. While Invisalign® treatment offers an aesthetically pleasing solution, it’s crucial to consider various factors when choosing orthodontic treatment. Our dentists at Harriman Family Dental recommend evaluating your individual situation before making a decision. In this guide, we’ll explore the effectiveness of Invisalign® in addressing specific orthodontic issues.
Invisalign® Treatment for Common Concerns
1. Crooked Teeth
Invisalign® excels in treating crooked teeth, offering a practical solution to align teeth and enhance your smile discreetly.
2. Overbite & Underbite
Addressing both overbites and underbites, Invisalign® can reposition either the top or bottom teeth to achieve proper alignment with the mouth closed.
Invisalign® effectively corrects crossbites, ensuring that teeth align correctly when the mouth is closed, preventing misalignments in the back or front teeth.
4. Gaps in Teeth & Crowded Teeth
Whether you have gaps between your teeth or experience crowding, Invisalign® is a versatile solution. It resolves gaps and overcrowding, promoting optimal oral health.
Considerations and Limitations
While Invisalign® is an excellent option for various orthodontic issues, it’s essential to acknowledge its limitations. In some cases, traditional braces may be more suitable, especially for severe orthodontic problems, intrusion, and extrusion. It’s worth noting that Invisalign® has evolved over the years, now capable of addressing more complex situations than before.
To determine if Invisalign® is the right choice for you, we recommend consulting with our experts at Harriman Family Dental. Contact our Harriman, NY, office for personalized guidance on achieving your ideal smile.