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November Is National Diabetes Month | Yorba Linda Dentist

Because this is the time of year diabetes is spotlighted the most, it is important to know that not only does diabetes affect your blood sugar levels, but every part of your body, including your teeth. Sure, we don’t typically correlate diabetes with our smiles but it’s true. Those with diabetes that isn’t taken care of are at a much higher risk of developing gum disease and other issues than non-diabetics.  So, in honor of National Diabetes Month, let’s take a quick look at some of the things you can do to keep dental issues at bay while you are beginning to figure out how to control your glucose levels.

Since chewing is necessary to eat, and teeth are needed to chew, it is important to keep your teeth healthy. Oral infections can lead to bone damage, and may cause tooth loss. Unfortunately, not all dental appliances will be suitable to your teeth so stay on top of your oral hygiene. Use a soft-bristle brush between the gums and the teeth in a vibrating motion and rinse daily.

It is important to know that bleeding or swollen gums is a common symptom those suffering with diabetes will encounter. If you notice your gums are bleeding while eating or brushing, see a dentist. They need to know you have been diagnosed with diabetes so that they can help you maintain your oral health going forward. In fact, notify your dentist immediately if you notice any abnormal changes in your mouth. Regular checkups will also be a great time to touch base with your dental professional regarding any other lifestyle changes that need to be made in order to maintain your overall health.

For more information about diabetes, call Dr. Andrey Eng in Yorba Linda, CA at 714-779-2736 or visit www.andreyengdds.com.

Dr. Eng proudly serve patients from Yorba Linda and all surrounding areas.

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Why Should I Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed? | Yorba Linda Dentist

It’s believed by many that wisdom teeth are a byproduct of evolution and that it was once necessary for ancient humans, whose diet consisted mainly of raw and unprocessed meat, plants, nuts and seeds, to chew and digest their food properly.

Even if they are hidden under the surface of your gums, your wisdom teeth are not free from disease. In fact, the third molars are actually quite prone to cavities, abscesses, gum diseases, cysts and so on. Also, if they are impacted, your wisdom teeth may end up damaging any adjacent teeth.

To prevent any complication caused by wisdom teeth, many people opt to have their wisdom teeth removed almost immediately as they appear. Not all dentists, however, recommend extraction. At least, not in all cases. In fact, most dentists agree that wisdom teeth should be evaluated to see if extraction is really necessary.

As far as making a decision goes, it’s best to consult your dentist and ask what is best for your oral health. If your dentist sees no problem in you keeping your last set of molars, you should take it as a sign that you’re one of the lucky few who didn’t have to go through the painful experience of their wisdom teeth crowding or impacting the adjacent teeth.

Remember, the only way to remove a wisdom tooth is through surgery. Although relatively safe, all surgical procedures are at risk for some sort of complication, especially in this case because the surgery to have wisdom teeth removed requires the use of either local or general anesthesia.

For more information about wisdom teeth, call Dr. Andrey Eng in Yorba Linda, CA at 714-779-2736 or visit www.andreyengdds.com.

Dr. Eng proudly serve patients from Yorba Linda and all surrounding areas.

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Start the New Year with New Dental Habits | Yorba Linda Dentist

We all try to improve our quality of life in the new year, and this upcoming new year is no different. But when you think about improving your health, do you ever think about your dental health? I won’t assume but it is likely that the answer is no. I will encourage you to think twice about that as you write your resolutions for 2020. Because in a way, your oral health dictates the rest of your body.

We know a proper dental routine includes brushing, flossing and rinsing with mouthwash, but a couple of these steps may be done in error, or completely missed altogether. If you are forgetting to do any of these steps, it’s time to rethink your habits. Don’t get overwhelmed, here’s a quick rundown. Promise it isn’t as scary as you think…

When it comes to dental health, the best thing you can do is stay on top of your oral hygiene. Make sure you do three things: brush for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste, rinse and floss twice daily, change your toothbrush every few months or after being sick, and see your dentist regularly.

You may not think it’s important but rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash is your leading line of defense when gum disease presents itself in your mouth. Not only does it help cure gingivitis, but also prevents bleeding gums and inflammation by eliminating the bacteria in your mouth causing the irritation. The brand or flavor is up to you, just make sure it’s accepted by the American Dental Association (ADA).

Taking care of your teeth doesn’t take work, just a conscious effort. And now we have a whole new year to get it right…

For more information about dental hygiene, call Dr. Andrey Eng in Yorba Linda, CA at 714-779-2736 or visit www.andreyengdds.com.

Dr. Eng proudly serve patients from Yorba Linda and all surrounding areas.