Oral Problems in HIV

Oral problems can arise because of weakened immune system, dealing with these problems is an important step towards living well, not just longer with HIV.

The most common oral problems linked with HIV are:

- Apthous Ulcers

Red sores that might also have a yellow-gray film on top. They are usually on the moveable parts of the mouth such as the tongue or inside of the cheeks and lips.

- Herpes (A viral infection)

Red sores usually on the roof of the mouth. They are sometimes on the outside of the lips, where they are called fever blisters.

- Hairy Leukoplakia

White patches that do not wipe away; sometimes very thick and “hairlike.” Usually appear on the side of the tongue or sometimes inside the cheeks and lower lip

- Candidiasis

White or yellowish patches (or can sometimes be red). If wiped away, there will be redness or bleeding underneath. They can appear anywhere in the mouth.

- Dry Mouth

Without enough saliva you could develop tooth decay or other infections and might have trouble chewing and swallowing. Your mouth might also feel sticky, dry and have a burning feeling. And you may have cracked, chapped lips.

The most common oral problems linked with HIV can be treated. So talk with your doctor or dentist about what treatment might work for you.

Source: 
Mouth Problems and HIV
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Tooth Surface Loss

There are factors like inadequate brushing leading to gingival (in the area near to gums) recession, corrosive food and drink consumption, habits such as bruxism and tooth clenching which can lead to tooth surface lesions and loss of tooth structure. There can be loss of tooth substance in area of stress concentration in the mouth.

Problem Identification

The lesions on the surface of teeth can lead to tooth sensitivity, plaque retention, tooth cavities/ caries. It can also lead to dental pain. Thorough understanding of oral habits, clinical examination and history is necessary to identify the exact cause of these lesions.

Causative Factors

• One or more of the following factors can act as causative factors
• Loss of the tooth structure caused by friction from food such as nuts, all bran cereals, food with high sugar content, acidic juices
• Highly acidic foods such as citrus fruits, carbonated soft drinks in combination with poor oral care
• Harmful habits such as chewing tobacco
• Overzealous tooth brushing
• Improper use of tooth pick 
• In case of patients suffering from “Hyperacidity”, tooth structure is lost on the inner surface of the teeth 
• Sometimes taking certain medications such as for high blood pressure, pain killers, anti allergic medications can lead to dry mouth, over a period of time this can be a factor for tooth structure loss and caries

Treatment: Prevention and Cure

• Complete understanding of the multifactorial etiology leads to formulating an appropriate treatment plan.
• Orientation about correct brushing techniques
• Sensitivity reducing tooth paste is advised, fluoride containing mouth rinse is prescribed
• With the participation of a physician the treatment for ‘hyperacidity”, eating disorders is sought, education is given on preventing intake of unhealthy food
•  Tooth colored restorations are given
• Treatment of Bruxism or tooth clenching is initiated

References:

• J. O. Grippo, M. Simring, and S. Schreiner, “Attrition, abrasion, corrosion and abfraction revisited: a new perspective on tooth surface lesions,” Journal of the American Dental Association, vol. 135, no. 8, pp. 1109–1118, 2004.
• L. Osborne-Smith, F. J. Burke, and N. H. Wilson, “The aetiology of the non-carious cervical lesion,” International Dental Journal, vol. 49, no. 3, pp. 139–143, 1999.
• Verrett RG. Analyzing the etiology of an extremely worn dentition. J Prosthodont 2001;10:224-33

Replace your toothbrush after you have been sick

Appropriate toothbrush care and maintenance are important considerations for sound oral hygiene.

Studies show that it is important to change your toothbrush after you have been sick, had cold, flu, mouth infection or sore throat. Even those patient who undergo major surgery are advised to change their toothbrush.

This will avoid re-contaminating yourself with germs every time you brush.

Maintenance, proper air drying of toothbrush is necessary to avoid their contamination from micro-organisms

References:

• Filho PN. Microbial contamination of tooth brushes and their decontamination. Pediatr Dent.2000;22:381–4.
• Denny FW. Risk of toothbrushes in the transmission of respiratory infections. Paediatr Infect Dis.1991;10:710–1.

Diabetes and Oral Health

People with Diabetes have special oral care needs.




Research has shown that there is an increased prevalence of oral health problems such as fungal infections, gum diseases, chewing difficulties and tooth loss among those suffering from Diabetes. These individuals are also prone to dry mouth leading to soreness, bitter taste, oral ulcers and cavities.

In turn, it has been proven that serious gum disease may have the potential to affect blood glucose control and contribute to the progression of Diabetes.



Signs of problem in your mouth

• Continuous pain in teeth or any region of mouth
• Loose Teeth
• Pain while chewing
• Changed sense of taste
• Mouth ulcer that does not heal

Preventing dental problems associated with Diabetes





- Control blood glucose levels
- Maintain good oral hygiene, regular brushing and regular dental check up
- Use toothbrush with soft nylon bristles with rounded ends
- Avoid smoking
- In case you wear dentures then clean them daily
- Avoid non-emergency dental procedures if blood sugar is not under control
- Eat healthy meals

Proper Brushing Technique

Total time needed: 2 minutes

Amount of paste 

a pea sized amount of tooth paste is recommended

Process*

–Place the toothbrush bristles at a 45 degree angle on the front surface of the back teeth. Move the toothbrush in small circular motions. Make sure that you brush the tooth and especially the area where the tooth meets the gums.

–With this circular motion, slowly move forward towards the front teeth, clean off all food debris and plaque. 

–Continue to move around the arch and cover the back teeth on the opposite side.

–Repeat these steps with the back of the teeth as well (the side of the teeth that is closest to the tongue)

–Next, place the toothbrush bristles on the chewing surfaces of the teeth

–Move the toothbrush back in forth in a “scrubbing motion”. Be sure to brush the chewing surfaces of all teeth, even the front teeth.

Rinse the brush with water after use. Let the brush dry out after every use.

*Bass Method

Choosing the Right Toothbrush!

The type of brush you use is important. 

The right toothbrush will meet your oral care needs and clean the teeth more completely.

–The best size toothbrush head is the one which allows you easy access to all surfaces of the teeth.

–The types of toothbrush bristles can be chosen from: firm, medium, soft, extra soft, sensitive, extra sensitive. Choose the one which is most comfortable for you. 

–The handle should be long enough so that it can be held comfortably. You can chose from a non-slip grip or even a flexible neck handle.

Our Mantra

Noble Dental Care is located in Paharganj, Central Delhi. We provide world class dental care at affordable prices to patients from India and foreign tourists so that they can make the most of their holiday in India.

We cater to the patient’s needs in the area of general dentistry such as fillings, bleaching, tooth cleaning as well as specialized dental care such as Implants and braces.

 We have pledged to provide dental health services which are ideally, ethically, morally correct and to remain honest to the individual as well as to the community whom we cater.

We understand that every tooth in the mouth is more precious than a diamond and should last a lifetime. We take keen interest in promoting patient education in good oral hygiene to prevent against cavities and tooth decay. We listen to our patients and take their needs into consideration, making their visit a delightful experience.