Noticing a dark-colored spot on your tooth isn’t exactly fun. You start brushing away, trying to get it to come off. Is it a cavity, or is it a stain? This question plagues your mind, and you’re left wondering in a slight panic. But don’t worry, we’re here to solve all your troubles. In this blog, we’ll discuss everything related to a cavity vs. stain. Read on to find out about the dark spot on your tooth.

What is a Cavity?

Usually, the bacteria in your mouth are normal; they’re somewhat healthy. But when you consume too much sugary or starchy foods, it can give birth to a bad kind of bacteria. This ultimately leads to plaque formation, causing further, more serious dental diseases down the line. One of these diseases is a cavity.

A cavity is a tooth-decaying process that starts from your tooth’s enamel. When this strong outer layer of your tooth starts to wear down due to bacteria, it leaves the insides of its body exposed. Thus, a cavity occurs when the bacteria find their way over to the dentin or the pulp. Since the nerve endings of your tooth are deeply rooted inside its body, you might experience intense pain and sensitivity when the bacteria reach that point.

Moreover, tooth discoloration during a cavity is pretty normal. The once pearly white tooth may turn an odd yellowish hue. With time, the color only darkens. Shades of dark gray, brown, or black might unfurl soon after.

What is a Stain?

Quite unlike a cavity, dental stains are nothing more than a discolored blemish. They don’t cause any pain or damage in any way or form. You might notice the blotch of color on either one side of the tooth or the entire tooth’s surface. Neglecting your dental health can lead to a stain getting worse.

In most cases, you can categorize these stains into two types: Extrinsic and Intrinsic.

Extrinsic stains form on the outer shell of the tooth, the enamel. They’re the easiest when it comes to removal. Be it through a home remedy or professional teeth cleaning; extrinsic stains don’t linger around permanently. On the other hand, an intrinsic stain is more on the permanent side of things. These stains are found in the middle of the tooth — on the dentin and are almost impossible to remove.

Cavity vs. Stain: What Causes Them?

Although both forms of discoloration look the same, here’s what causes a cavity and stain to take shape:

• Cavity
• Poor Oral Hygiene
• Dry Mouth
• Acid Reflux
• Unbalanced and Improper Diet
• Flouride Deficiency
• Stain:
• Smoking Tobacco
• Tartar Buildup
• Side Effects of Aging or Medicines
• Drinking Liquids with High Food Coloring
• Tomatoes

Cavity vs. Stain: How to Prevent Them

Maintaining a healthy oral hygiene routine is the best way to prevent both a cavity and a dental stain. Make it a daily habit to brush your teeth every morning and once again before you go to bed.

Pay attention to your diet. The food you eat and drink can also highly affect your tooth’s condition. Drinks like coffee or wine can cause an adverse reaction and stain your teeth. Whereas drinking too many sweet and fizzy drinks can lead to cavity formation.

Cavity vs. Stain: How to Tell Them Apart

It might be a little hard to tell a cavity apart from a stain. However, try paying close attention to the discolored spot. Is the blemish covering the entirety of your tooth, or is it concentrated in one area? Is there any pain or sensitivity in the area? Depending on these factors, you can find the culprit behind the dark spot on your tooth. Nonetheless, for accurate results, visit a dentist.

Long Story Short

There are many similarities between a cavity vs. stain, but you can avoid them with proper care and attention. Contact Smiles on Greatwood Dentistry at (281) 937-7530 to schedule an appointment for an in-depth dental evaluation. In the case of a cavity, it’s better to get it treated as soon as possible.

If you’re new to flossing, you might be prone to bleeding gums. But why does that happen? Is it a common occurrence? Should your gums bleed every time you floss? The answer to all of these questions is simple: No.

Your gums shouldn’t constantly bleed when flossing. Instead, with time, you should be able to get better control over the thread. Nonetheless, there are many reasons why your gums could be bleeding while flossing. In this blog, we’ll uncover the causes and treatment to prevent any blood from spilling out.

Why Do My Gums Bleed When I Floss My Teeth

Gums bleeding during flossing isn’t a big deal, especially if it stops after some time. Nevertheless, just to be safe, it’s better to get a professional dental evaluation as a precaution. Moreover, seeing blood just means you need to upkeep your dental hygiene routine and floss more often.

That is if you’re new to it. For people who are used to the thread, it might raise some concerns.

Either way, make sure to get it checked for periodontal diseases such as periodontitis or gingivitis. Here are some of the primary causes of bleeding gums:

1. Flossing with an improper form or technique.
2. New to dental flossing
3. Internal Vitamin Deficiency
4. Side effects of certain medications that could be thinning out your blood
5. Poor diet lacking proper nutrition
6. Gingivitis
7. Periodontitis
8. Hormonal Imbalance due to pregnancy
9. Smoking
10. Drug Abuse
11. HIV Infection
12. Diabetes
13. Autoimmune Diseases

How To Stop Gums From Bleeding When Flossing

Despite being a common phenomenon, leaving your gums to rot and bleed is not the way to go. Instead, you can try to find preventive methods to stop the bleeding. For instance, if you’re flossing too hard, perhaps try using a gentler hand. Or, if you have a pre-existing injury on your gums, be careful not to run the thread over it.

In addition, it is important you identify why exactly this happens. Find out the root cause of your gums’ bleeding, and then move on to the solution that suits you best. Mentioned below are some soothing remedies:

• Improve Your Oral Hygiene. Brush every day in the morning after having breakfast and at night before you go to bed. This will guarantee your teeth and gums stay strong and aren’t susceptible to bleeding.
• Use a Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse Dissolve one part hydrogen peroxide (of 3% concentration) with three parts water to make an antibacterial mouth rinse. This will help to treat sore or inflamed gums.
• Increase Your Vitamin Intake (c & k) Incorporate vitamin C and vitamin K into your diet to prevent your blood from thinning out. Not to mention, it’s a great way to boost your immune system and fight off all sorts of gum infections.
• Apply a Cold Compress If the bleeding doesn’t stop, you can apply a cold compress to the affected area. Sometimes, the reason gums bleed out is simply because of an injury rather than a scary gum disease.
• Use a Salt Water Solution Half a teaspoon salt in warm water can work wonders for the smallest inflammation or injury. This rinsing solution can help to reduce bacteria and put a stop to your bleeding gums.

The Final Takeaway

In conclusion, if your gums bleed when flossing, it could be due to myriad reasons. Some might require immediate dental assistance, while others could be because of minor irritation. Nonetheless, if you’re looking for more information on gums and periodontal health, visit Smiles on Greatwood Dentistry or give us a call at (281) 937-7530 today.

Have you ever found yourself wondering aloud, ‘Why does my jaw hurt?’, because if so, you just might have popped the biggest question of all time. According to studies, around 13 million adults in the US suffer from jaw pain. But despite being common, there isn’t a surefire way of answering that question. In fact, plenty of reasons can amount to the jaw pain you might be feeling. We’ll break down the top 5 causes that could possibly be behind it.

Why Does My Jaw Hurt All of a Sudden?

Waking up with a sudden aching in your jaw is far from ideal. If anything, it could ruin your entire day. Although some people do suffer from chronic jaw pain, known as TMD, other times, it’s only a short-lived spark of pain. Ranging from complex to simple, here are the following reasons why your jaw hurts when you open your mouth wide:

1. Oral Infection
An oral infection can come in various shapes and sizes. Be it on your teeth, gums, or tongue, oral infections can be quite tricky to deal with. Mainly, a deeply embedded cavity or a cracked tooth can lead to jaw pain. But on the other hand, an abscessed tooth, along with gum disease, can also play a role in causing your jaw discomfort.

2. Migraine
As odd as it sounds, cluster headaches and migraines can be the leading cause of an aching jaw. The blood vessels in your head tangle up with your facial nerves, leading to severe pain. If you notice your jaw pain disappearing right after your headache goes away, that should serve as a clear indication.

3. High Stress
At times, high amounts of stress can also have your jaw feeling sore. This is especially the case if you’re prone to clenching or grinding your teeth. You may not notice it at that moment, but the pain arrives soon enough after.

4. Sinus Infection
Allergies or a case of a bad sinus infection can also be one of the reasons why your jaw hurts. The pressure you feel in your jaw comes from the nasal congestion caused by sinusitis. If the pain is accompanied by dizziness, headache, or post-nasal drip, it could all just be because of a sinus infection.

5. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)
TMD is by far the most serious case of jaw pain. That’s when you know something is really up. The temporomandibular joint in your face connects to the lower jaw of your skull. This is why a sudden pain might shoot up whenever you open your mouth to chew, eat or yawn. Sometimes, you might hear clicking noises when opening your mouth, or there may be an odd pain near your ears. All of this could be a result of TMD.

How to Treat Jaw Pain

In most cases, dentists suggest avoiding any type of hard food. Moreover, try not to open your mouth too wide, or it could dislodge your jaw from its original position. Of course, if the pain gets too much, you might want to ice the area for some time. But if the aching lasts long, it might be time for you to seek professional dental care.

The Closing Word

All in all, the next time you think to yourself, ‘Why does my jaw hurt?’ Remember to take a deep breath and pay attention to the other symptoms you’re feeling. Nonetheless, in the case that the pain persists, call (281) 937-7530 to schedule an appointment with Smiles on Greatwood Dentistry for an in-depth evaluation.

Have you ever gone to take a big bite out of your sandwich, only to find that your jaw feels slightly out of place on one side? Or have you ever noticed your jaw clicking when you open your mouth? If so, then you’re most probably dealing with a dislocated jaw.

My Jaw Feels Out of Place on One Side — What do I do?

For starters, try not to panic. Jaw dislocation is actually quite common. However, no matter what you do, do not try to fix it by yourself. Seek medical care as soon as you can.

Nonetheless, the question remains; What does a dislocated jaw mean?

Well, a dislocated jaw occurs when your jawbone shifts from its original position. This happens due to blunt force trauma or constant irritation. Either way, when the lower area of your jaw moves, it can cause many problems. So even after the jaw is back in its place, small acts like chewing or yawning could still be painful.

Symptoms of a Dislocated Jaw?

Rather than waiting for the worst to happen, it’s better to take preventive action beforehand. Look out for the following symptoms if your jaw feels out of place on one side or both.

• Stiffness or tightness in the lower area
• Swollen jaw
• Mouth feeling sore
• Stabbing pangs of pain when the jaw is moved
• Bite Misalignment
• Hard to talk or swallow
• Unable to properly close mouth
• Increased Drooling
• Jaw constantly getting locked
• Jaw makes weird clicking or popping sounds

What Causes the Jaw Cartilage to Slide Out of Place?

As strong as your jaw is, it is still made from bone. This means that sudden physical trauma can offset it from its roots. In most cases, jaw pain is related to Temporomandibular Joint Disorder or TMD. It is a condition that deals with jaw joints and muscles. Nonetheless, here are a few other causes of a dislocated jaw:

• Bruxism
• Sudden Trauma to the Jaw Area
• Excessive Chewing
• Misaligned Bite
• Myofascial Pain Syndrome
• Constantly Stretching Mouth Wide Open

How to Treat a Dislocated Jaw

If you find your jaw repeatedly locking or shifting from its place, then it’s better to take precautions. However, if the severity isn’t that bad, opt for a hot or ice cold compress. On the other hand, you can also refrain from opening your mouth too wide.

Although, in the long term, it’s better to get a professional jaw treatment. Depending on the gravity of the shift, you might have to undergo jaw wiring. In addition, perhaps a Maxillary or Mandibular Osteotomy might also be required. But there’s nothing to worry about. During the procedure, you’re put under medical-grade anesthesia. Moreover, once the surgery is complete, you will have to wear compression bandages to ensure your jaw stays in its place. This will provide your jaw bone with the additional support it needs so that it doesn’t pop out of place again.

Closing Word

In conclusion, it is completely okay for your jaw to hurt after a long day. But if your jaw feels out of place on one side, it could be due to a dislocated jaw. Thus, in such cases, getting treatment as soon as possible is better. Smiles on Greatwood is the perfect place to seek solutions to all your dental needs. In fact, you can schedule an appointment by simply calling (281) 937-7530 today!

Having good oral hygiene is a necessity. This is why, despite dentures not being real teeth, it is vital to ensure they stay clean and well taken care of.

Brushing teeth, flossing, and using mouthwash are common forms of cleaning your mouth. However, when it comes to dentures, things can get a little bit tricky.

But have no fear; we’ve got you covered! Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide for you on how to clean dentures and maintain their shelf life.

A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean Dentures:

Step One: Set a Time

When cleaning your dentures, consistency is key. Set a specific time, preferably before bed and when done with eating, for your ease and comfort.

Step Two: Daily Cleansing

Make it a habit to clean every day. If neglected, you could risk getting an infection. Moreover, you could also permanently damage your dentures.

Step Three: Prepare Your Cleaning Station

Before you get started, make sure the cleaning area is fully prepped. Carefully lay out towels near the sink and on the floor to be safe. You could also let your sink fill up with warm water so that if the dentures accidentally fall, they won’t get harmed.

Step Four: Gargle with Warm Water

Gargle with lukewarm water to help the dentures loosen their hold. Don’t use boiling water, or it could ruin the shape of your prosthodontics.

Step Five: Gently Pull out the Dentures

Once you feel the dentures free themselves from the adhesive, give them a wiggle before gently pulling the piece out. Use your forefinger and thumb for this method and push outwards. In addition, try to be extra careful, so your gums do not get harmed.

Step Six: Rinse with Water

While delicately handling the dentures, give them a good rinse. Make sure the running water washes away any remaining food particles that might be stuck.

Step Seven: Start Gently Brushing

Use a toothbrush that has extremely soft bristles. Since brushing dentures differs from regular teeth, you need to pay extra attention. One way is by opting for a special denture paste for cleaning. This will ensure that your dentures do not get scratched or ruined in the process.

Step Eight: Clean Away the Residue

Strong adhesives can sometimes find their way inside the tiniest of crevices. Brush along the grooves of your dentures so that if there’s any remaining adhesive gathered up, it can instantly get cleaned.

Step Nine: Soak The Dentures Overnight

When you’re done thoroughly cleaning your prosthodontics, soak them in a cleaning solution. You can also use water to keep your dentures in overnight. This helps to maintain their form and allows them to last longer.

Step Ten: Brush Your Mouth

Once the dentures are put away, take the time to clean your mouth as well. Be very gentle when brushing your gums, and don’t forget to clean the roof of your mouth. Brush with care and ensure nothing is sticking to your gums.

Step Eleven: Rinse Before Use

The next day, when you go on to use your dentures again, give them a thorough rinsing before inserting them into your mouth.

Lastly

Keep in mind that there isn’t a particular way on how to clean dentures. You can use different methods, but safety comes above all, especially since dentures are beyond delicate. Taking care of your oral hygiene allows your prosthodontics to last longer and prevents any illnesses from festering. For more tips, visit Smiles on Greatwood or call us at 281-937-7530.

Did you just wake up to find a sudden white spot glaring against your gums? Well, don’t go on to worry just yet. There are many ways this can be perceived, but not all the reasons are as scary. Ranging from canker sores to precancerous ailments, these specks of white consequently come in all shapes and sizes. Here’s a list of what they might look like:

• Hard, white bumps
• Intricate web-like formations
• Discolored patches
• Tiny flecks

5 Reasons Why Your Gums Might Have White Spots On Them

Rather than a definitive reason, the white spots on your gums could have multiple causes. With a wide range of triggers that linger, here are a few main ones:

Canker Sores

The most common type of reason is a Canker Sore, also known as Cold Sores. These oral ulcers might be small, but they pack quite a punch. Usually, they develop on the gums, inside the lip & cheek, as well as under the tongue. You can identify a canker sore by noticing these things:

• White ring with a yellowish middle
• Red brim around the spot
• Sharp and stinging pain
• Extreme tenderness

Leukoplakia

Leukoplakia consists of small patches that may seem like dried toothpaste at first glance, but that is not the case. These patches can’t be scraped off or cleaned, yet since they’re harmless, they tend to go away on their own. However, if they remain for a long time, they may harden. In rare cases, leukoplakia with redness around its frame could be cancerous in nature. Here are some of its characteristics:

• White patches (variations in size)
• Can’t be cleaned
• Hardened surface
• Painless

Oral Lichen Planus

If you find raised, intricate outlines anywhere in your mouth, that might be Oral Lichen Planus. Being an autoimmune reaction, the web-like patches developed through oral lichen planus are usually raised. This can cause the area to quite often become red and painful. Here’s what you should also look out for:

• Intricate web-like design
• Raised patches
• Can go from white to red overtime
• Heightened sensitivity
• Extreme pain or burning sensation

Oral Thrush

In appearance, Oral Thrush resembles a combination of Oral Lichen Planus and Leukoplakia. Caused by the constant use of antibiotics, Oral Thrush might be the reason for those whitish indents on your gums. Moreover, these lesions also tend to affect children as well as the elderly. Thus, these are the signs you should watch out:

• Bad breath
• White or discolored patches
• Textured marks like cottage cheese
• Raised and red (sometimes)

Precancerous

In some cases, sudden discolored spotting can be a foretelling sign of cancer. However, that might not always be the reason. Therefore, it is better to consult a practicing professional to quell any doubts about your health and benefit, especially if the mark lasts longer than 14 days.

How To Prevent White Spots from Sprouting on My Gums

Want to change the outlook of your life and prevent any risks? Simply adopt the following habits and watch your dental health thrive.

• Brush your teeth twice every day.
• Every now and then, rinse and gargle with mouthwash.
• For routine checkups, schedule appointments with your dentist two times a year.
• Avoid excessive alcohol and tobacco use.
• Floss daily, in-between meals.
• Maintain a healthy diet by eating more greens.
• Don’t forget to clean your tongue with a tongue cleaner.
• To prevent your mouth from drying out, stay hydrated.

Lastly…

To conclude, don’t forget that taking care of your oral hygiene comes first. A pesky white spot on your gums just might be a sign of a bad diet and dental health. Therefore, try and rid yourself of stress or any other harmful habits that there may be. In the end, for further assistance, give Smiles on Greatwood Dentistry a call at 281-937-7530.

Jaw clicking when chewing might sound alarming, but it is not always a cause for concern. This clicking or popping occurs due to the temporomandibular joint dysfunction, or TMJ. It connects our jaw to the temporal bones, allowing movements. Damage to your jaw joint can result in various symptoms known as temporomandibular disorders. Many factors are responsible for jaw popping and TMD.

What Causes Jaw Clicking When Chewing?

The hinges on either side of the jaw open and close as we chew our food. When something affects your jaw’s movement, it clicks as a response or warning. Clicking sound occurs because of physical deformities like disk erosion, damaged cartilage, and joint damage. You might hear your jaw clicking when chewing due to the following reasons:

1. Dislocated Jaw
Injury to the face can unhinge your jaw. Sports injury, accidents, falls to the face, physical assault, traffic collisions, etc., can dislocate your jaw. Consequently, you will hear your jaw making a clicking noise when chewing. If you also experience pain, have bruises or swelling, or any other issues, consult your doctor immediately.

2. Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea can cause TMD issues, according to some studies. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and Central Sleep Apnea (CSA) are the two types of sleep apnea. In obstructive sleep apnea, a person stops breathing involuntarily while they sleep due to narrowness in the throat. Whereas in central sleep apnea, the brain does not signal the muscles accurately, making the patient stop breathing periodically through sleep. Before an episode of OSA, the throat starts relaxing, blocking the airway. The jaw tries to prevent this, which puts pressure on it — leading to TMJ problems. Therefore, sleep apnea can be why your jaw clicks when chewing.

3. Malocclusion or Misalignment of Teeth
Crossbite, overbite, underbite, open bite, and crowded teeth are results of misalignment of teeth. The malocclusion of teeth can cause discomfort while chewing; you might even hear a pop whenever you bite.

4. Infection
Infection from untreated cavities can lead to jawbone damage, which may sound like a pop when you chew. Not only this, but an infection of the salivary gland can affect your jaw too. You should seek immediate medical attention if you have an infection, as neglecting it leads to more problems. Dry mouth, bad taste, swollen face and neck, pus discharge in mouth, and pain are some signs of an infection. If your jaw is clicking when chewing and you suspect an infection, drop by your dentist immediately.

5. Tumor
A tumor that leads to oral cancer can cause changes in your jaw. You will experience popping when the tumor starts affecting your jaw. A specific but rare type of tumor that can cause jaw clicking is ameloblastoma, which develops near wisdom teeth or molars and affects jaw movement. Therefore, if you experience jaw clicking when chewing, look out for loose teeth, problems in adjusting dentures, constant earache, and a persistent sore on the mouth or lip.

What Should I do?

Treatment for jaw clicking depends on the cause and severity of the damage. Your dentist might suggest home remedies or medical treatments, depending on the cause. At Smiles On Greatwood Dentistry, we offer treatments for TMJ and other oral health issues. Reach out to us at (281) 937-7530.

Does your tooth hurt when you bite down? Tooth pain is always an unpleasant experience. But it is an even worse experience if it hurts while you are eating or indulging in daily activities. If you feel a twinge of pain whenever you bite down, this blog will list five reasons why it happens.

5 Reasons Why Tooth Hurts When You Bite Down

There are many causes that can lead to tooth pain when biting down. Understanding the underlying reason behind the discomfort while chewing is essential for more effective treatment and preservation. These reasons encompass various issues such as cavities, dental abscesses, cracks, as well as the need for bite adjustment in a crown or filling.

1. Dental Crown or Filling Need Bite Adjustment
The way teeth bite together is described by the word ‘occlusion’. Your teeth need to occlude correctly; otherwise, you’ll feel discomfort while biting. When a dental filling, crown, or a tooth is not at a level with the other teeth, it may cause a painful sensation upon biting down. Moreover, neighboring teeth might also feel discomfort due to the pressure. Thus, your tooth might hurt when you bite after a filling. Your dentist can fix an unevenly distributed bite pressure, so make sure to contact them.

2. Large or Deep Cavity
Cavities can cause tooth sensitivity and pain in reaction to certain foods. Sugary foods and beverages, sodas, and even coffee can cause toothache when you eat or drink. Moreover, food particles can get stuck in large cavities, causing pressure and sharp pain. To prevent these pain flare-ups, visit your dentist for treatment.

3. Cracked Tooth

You may observe that a tooth is causing pain when you bite, even though there are no visible signs of a cavity or dental treatment. This pain could be due to a hidden crack in the tooth, which can be difficult to detect. Usually, the presence of a crack becomes apparent when you experience tooth pain while biting down. If you feel discomfort in your tooth after eating, carefully examine the area to pinpoint the source of the pain. For the detection and treatment of a cracked tooth, it is essential to consult a dental specialist.

4. Dental Abscess
If your complaint is ‘my tooth hurts when I put pressure on it’, another cause can be a dental abscess. It is a swelling or cyst that forms inside the bone at the tip of the root or other areas, putting pressure on it. Generally, abscess drains and swells, but you should visit your dentist to get a treatment before it worsens. In most cases, a root canal is required.

5. Congestion or Nasal/ Sinus Pressure
Your sinuses are close to your teeth’s roots. Hence, tooth pain does not always indicate dental problems; it could be that your sinuses are inflamed. If your back tooth hurts with pressure, it could be congestion, as molars and premolars are susceptible to discomfort due to sinus pressure. Hence, your tooth might hurt when you bite down due to reasons that are not actually tooth-related.

Visit A Dentist

Neglecting health issues, including dental problems, is not advisable. If you experience tooth pain while biting down, it’s essential to seek immediate attention from your dentist. At Smiles On Greatwood, our experts are ready to assist you in resolving all your dental concerns. Simply give us a call at 281-937-7530, and we’ll be glad to help.

Canker sores or any other mouth sores and blisters can be frustrating. It hurdles your everyday routine and interferes while you try to eat or talk. Moreover, it brings intolerable pain and burning with it. Thus, you can try many methods to get rid of it. For instance, using alum for canker sores can effectively heal them.

How to Use Alum for Canker Sores?

Potassium sulfate, or alum, works to heal your canker sore by releasing the liquid inside it. After the fluid is drawn out, the healing process accelerates.

Using alum for canker sores is simple. Take a pinch of alum powder and apply it directly to your mouth ulcer. Wait about a minute before spitting it out. Avoid swallowing the alum, and rinse your mouth thoroughly after spitting it out. Although you will feel a sharp twinge, this method is effective as it brings alum directly in contact with the sore.

You can also dilute alum with a few drops of water to make a paste and apply it to the sore. Or you can add more water to make a mouth rinse. Don’t wait more than 2-3 minutes to rinse or spit the alum out.

If you are wondering how often to use alum on canker sore, the answer is two to three times a week. You will see a significant relief within the first 24 hours of using alum for canker sores.

What Does Alum Do for Canker Sores?

Alum is an astringent. Hence, it draws the liquid out and shrinks the tissue to help the lesion close rapidly. Moreover, it helps reduce pain and inflammation as an anti-inflammatory agent. And it helps prevent bacteria growth, making it an ideal substance to remedy mouth ulcers.

Are There Any Other Remedies?

Alum benefits the healing of canker sores. But there are other remedies you can use for canker sore treatment:

1. Saltwater: A one-part salt and half-part water solution is an exceptional disinfectant for your canker sores. It works by removing any infection that can hurt your sore. Adding a pinch of baking soda to the saltwater solution can work wonders as well.

2. Aloe Vera: The anti-inflammatory aloe vera is a perfect cure for your sore. Rub a bit of aloe gel on the lesion to alleviate pain and boost the healing process.

3. Honey: Applying honey to the canker sore four times daily can reduce the wound’s pain, size, and redness. Honey’s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties make it an effective remedy for canker sores.

4. Hydrogen Peroxide: Take 3% hydrogen peroxide with equal parts of water. Apply it to your mouth sore with a cotton ball or swab. You can also go for a diluted peroxide solution and use it as a mouth rinse. Swish the mouth rinse in your mouth for a minute, and spit it out. It will reduce bacteria, cleaning the canker sore.

Canker sores heal in a couple of weeks. But using home remedies can help reduce their symptoms. If you have big or recurrent canker sores and excruciating pain, it is best to get immediate dental consultation. You can call Smiles On Great Woods Dentistry by dialing +1 281-937-7530 for the best advice, consultations, and appointments.

Are your gums turning white? Oral issues are never-ending. Therefore, you must take good care of your oral health, or it can lead to complications. One of these complications includes pale gums. White gums are an unhealthy gums color, as it often indicates an underlying cause. However, it can also be due to simple dental procedures like tooth whitening and extractions. Keep reading to go through the possible causes of pale-looking gums.

Why are my gums turning white?

There can be many reasons behind your gums turning white, including a severe medical condition. Therefore, if you notice your gums looking comparatively lighter than before, it is wise to consult your dentist.

1. Canker Sores

If you have a white or yellow spot on your gum surrounded by redness, it might be a canker sore. Canker sores are mouth lesions that usually appear on the insides of your cheeks, the bottom of your gums, and the area under your tongue. Remember that canker sores will not turn your entire gum line pale. Only the area with these open wounds will be lighter than the rest of your gum line. Thus, if your gums are turning white as a whole, canker sores may not be the reason.

2. Anemia

Your gums and skin can pale if your body does not have the required amount of oxygen. And for oxygen to flow through your body, red blood cells are needed. A lack of red blood cells means there is little oxygen flowing through your organs and tissues. As a result, your gums will start looking paler than is healthy. This condition is called anemia.

3. Gingivitis

Your gums can turn white due to bacterial infections, like gingivitis. Gingivitis can look like receding gums. Not only that, but it also causes pale gums. Therefore, if you suspect that you have gingivitis, visit your dentist if the following symptoms appear:

1. Your gums start bleeding during brushing or
2. Inflammation and redness in your gums.
3. Teeth are becoming loose.

4. Teeth Whitening
Dental Procedures like teeth whitening and tooth extractions are also possible reasons. You might notice your gums turning white after teeth whitening. This is because the chemicals that your dentist uses in the procedure temporarily affect your gums, and they should return to their normal, healthy pink color after a few hours of the treatment. Similarly, you will notice other methods like whitening strips turning gums white. This is also because of the chemicals, which sometimes leave a slight burn on your gums.

5. Oral Cancer
For white gums, cancer is also a possible culprit. Although it is rare, a cause nonetheless. Oral cancer affects your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth. Thus, if you see small, thin bumps that are red, white, or flesh-colored, it can signify oral cancer.

The Closing Word

Your gums can turn white for many reasons, ranging from canker sores and a mere reaction to dental procedures to more serious underlying conditions like oral cancer. Thus, if your gums turn white, it is better to consult your doctor immediately. You can also contact our skilled professionals at Smiles On Great Woods Dentistry by dialing +1 281-937-7530 for any dental help or advice you may need.