Baton Rouge Dentist

Archives for March 2012

Why do I keep getting mouth ulcers?

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I’ve been getting ulcers in the back of my throat for the past month or so now, and they make it very painful to eat or drink pretty much anything… the only thing I have to dull the pain is some left over pain medication. Now I have read that ulcers are caused from a weak immune system, and I had just gotten over a bad flu 3 weeks ago so that may be a contributing factor.
I brush twice a day and rinse with Listerine because it has alcohol to kill any germs that might be the problem. I quit smoking over 8 months ago, and I am 22 and never drink.

Thanks, Nick

Dear Nick

Mouth ulcers known as canker sores are common and can last up to 10 days. You are correct in saying that a weak immune system can trigger these to develop. Another reason you may be developing these ulcers is because you recently quit smoking and your body may be reacting to the cessation of the chemicals in the cigarettes. A poor diet or even having a lot of stress in your life can also contribute to canker sores. Things we consume that are high in acid like orange juice, coffee, strawberries, and even eggs can cause these sores to form. Ulcers can also be a sign that you may have a food allergy of some sort. Canker sores are annoying however to help them heal and sooth the pain we recommend you mix a teaspoon of salt to 8 ounces of warm salt water and swish with it a few times a day. These sores have to run their course. Having good dental hygiene like brushing your teeth and flossing daily as well as visiting your dentist every 6 months for your dental cleanings will also help reduce your risk of having mouth ulcers. If you continue to have a problem we recommend you visit your physician to help you resolve your problem with canker sores.

Post courtesy of Dr. Perry, Baton Rouge Dentist.

I brush my teeth three times a day and they are still yellow?

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I have yellow teeth and I been brushing my teeth three times a day since January and now it’s March and I have seen a little change in color. I bought the spin brush it says that it will make my teeth whiter in 7 days. It’s been two months and yet they are still yellow. Please can anyone tell me if there is a way to whiten your teeth?

Thanks, Kim

Dear Kim,

The most effective way to whiten your teeth and keep your smile bright for years is to have them professionally whitened at the dental office. Most offices offer two types of bleaching. One is a take-home kit that requires you to have dental impressions of your teeth so bleach trays can be designed to fit your teeth. You wear the trays daily for a couple of hours with the bleaching gel for two to three weeks. This is the most cost-effective way to bleach your teeth. The price can range from $200 to $350. The other bleaching method is laser bleaching. This procedure usually requires about two hours in the dental chair and can brighten your smile about four shades lighter, depending on the shade of your teeth. This type of bleaching can cost anywhere from $500 to $600, however, whitens teeth instantly unlike the trays. Both methods work well however our teeth can discolor over time from dark liquids and smoking, therefore many like to touch up there smiles about every 3 to 5 years by purchasing a couple of tubes of dental bleach to put in their trays to brighten their smile. We recommend you consult with your dentist to see which procedure will best meet your needs.

Post courtesy of Dr. Perry, Baton Rouge Dentist.