Perceived stress may detrimentally impact oral health which, in turn, may lead to cognitive decline among specific elderly communities, according to two new studies. Share on Pinterest New research finds connections between oral health in older adults and cognitive function. Oral health can be a surprisingly good indicator of a
More and more evidence points to the notion that gum disease increases the risk of other health conditions, including hypertension. A new review of the literature now argues that the more severe the form of gum disease, the higher the risk of hypertension. Share on Pinterest Accumulating evidence points to
Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, but, until now, no one knew how it managed to last a lifetime. The authors of a recent study conclude that enamel’s secret lies in the imperfect alignment of crystals. Share on Pinterest Using new imaging technology, scientists have unlocked
Teeth help a person use their mouth to eat, speak, smile, and give shape to their face. Each type of tooth has a name and a specific function. Teeth are made up of different layers — enamel, dentin, pulp, and cementum. Enamel, which is the hardest substance in the body,
Ludwig’s angina is a rare, serious skin infection that develops on the floor of the mouth and the neck. It results from bacteria that are present due to other issues, such as a tooth abscess or a mouth injury. With antibiotics, people usually recover from Ludwig’s angina. However, if a
A person’s tongue is generally flat and free of significant grooves. Fissured tongue causes a person to develop one or more grooves on the top portion of their tongue. Fissured tongue is neither contagious nor painful. However, other conditions, such as geographic tongue or food caught in the groove, can
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps build strong teeth and prevent cavities. For more than 70 years, most of the tap water in America has contained small amounts of fluoride to reduce tooth decay. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) say that fluoridated water has reduced
Dentists and oral surgeons perform tooth extractions for many reasons. The issue may be a painful wisdom tooth or a tooth that has been badly damaged by decay. In some cases, a dentist will remove a tooth to make space for dental prosthetics or braces. An oral surgeon, not a
New research finds that brushing the teeth three or more times a day significantly reduces the risk of atrial fibrillation and heart failure. Share on Pinterest Brushing your teeth three times or more a day may significantly protect the heart. The bacteria in our mouths may hold the key to
