Author Archives: Phuong Ngo

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) is an umbrella term that describes the range of effects that can occur in a person whose mother drank alcohol while pregnant. FASD affect an estimated 40,000 infants each year—more than spina bifida, Down syndrome, and muscular dystrophy combined.

What causes FASD?
The ultimate cause of FASD is alcohol intake by a pregnant mother. However, alcohol itself may not be directly responsible for all (or any) of the effects of FASD. What may be responsible are byproducts generated when the body metabolizes (“burns”) alcohol. The end result is a decrease in the number of brain cells (neurons), abnormal location of neurons (due to disturbance of their normal migration during fetal development), and gross malformation of the brain. Damage to the unborn baby is permanent. There is no cure for FASD.

What are the effects of FASD?
The effects of FASD vary among affected individuals. The effects can include physical, mental, behavioral, and/or learning disabilities with possible lifelong implications. Often, a person has a mix of these problems. FASD include the following categories:
• Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS)—this is indicated by a pattern of neurological, behavioral, and cognitive deficits along with specific facial features.
• Alcohol-related neurodevelopmental disorder (ARND)—this term is used when only central nervous system abnormalities are present as a result of fetal alcohol exposure. ARND is characterized by problems with memory and motor skills.
• Alcohol-related birth defects (ARBD)—this is indicated by defects in the growth of skeletal and major organ systems.
• Fetal alcohol effects (FAE)—this term is sometimes used to describe children who had prenatal exposure to alcohol but do not have all of the symptoms (particularly the facial features) associated with FAS.

Who is at risk?
Any pregnant woman who drinks alcohol is at risk of having a child with FASD, regardless of her education, income, or ethnicity. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, women who are at particularly high risk of drinking during pregnancy and having a child with FASD include:
• Women with substance abuse or mental health problems
• Women who have already had a child with FASD
• Recent drug users
• Smokers
• Women who have multiple sex partners
• Recent victims of abuse and violence

How can FASD be prevented?
While there is no cure for FASD, it is 100 percent preventable when pregnant women abstain from alcohol. There is no known safe amount of alcohol to drink while pregnant. There also is no safe time during pregnancy to drink and no safe kind of alcohol. Good reproductive care before knowledge of pregnancy also assists to a great extent in the prevention of FASD. If you have questions about FASD, talk to your primary care physician and Dr. Ngo.

For more oral health tips, talk to Dr. Ngo or visit KnowYourTeeth.com. Brought to you by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)

Focus Dental is conveniently located on the corner of Jupiter Rd and Campbell Rd in the Campbell Park Shopping Center at 3443 W Campbell Rd, Ste 650 Garland, TX 75044. So if you are in the Garland, Richardson, Dallas, Plano, Murphy, Sachse, Wylie or surrounding areas in Texas we can help you with your family’s anxiety-free dentistry, fillings, braces, dentures, dental implants, and cosmetic dental needs.

Eating disorders are real, complex, and often devastating conditions that can have serious consequences on your overall health and oral health. Telltale early signs of eating disorders often appear in and around the mouth. Dr. Ngo may be the first person to notice the symptoms of an eating disorder and to encourage her patient to get help.

What are the different types of eating disorders?
• Anorexia nervosa is a serious, potentially life-threatening eating disorder characterized by self-starvation and excessive weight loss.
• Bulimia nervosa is a serious, potentially life-threatening eating disorder characterized by a cycle of bingeing and compensatory behaviors (i.e., self-induced vomiting, use of laxatives, diuretics, or enemas) designed to undo or compensate for the effects of binge eating.
• Binge eating is an eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of uncontrollable eating without the regular use of compensatory measures to counter the effects of excessive eating. Binge eating may occur on its own or in the context of other eating disorders.
• Pica is an eating disorder that is described as “the hunger or craving for non-food substances.” It involves a person persistently mouthing and/or ingesting non-nutritive substances (i.e., coal, laundry starch, plaster, pencil erasers, and so forth) for at least a period of one month at an age when this behavior is considered developmentally inappropriate.

How do eating disorders affect health?
Eating disorders can rob the body of adequate minerals, vitamins, proteins, and other nutrients needed for good health. Without the proper nutrition, gums and other soft tissue inside your mouth may bleed easily. Frequent vomiting may affect teeth as well. Repeated exposure to strong stomach acid can cause much of a tooth’s outer covering (enamel) to be lost, resulting in changes to the teeth’s color, shape, and length. The edges of teeth may become thin and break off easily. Eating hot or cold foods or drinks may become uncomfortable. Repeated vomiting also can cause mouth sores, dry mouth, cracked lips, and bad breath.

How does Dr. Ngo detect eating disorders?
Changes in the mouth are often the first physical signs of an eating disorder. Bad breath, sensitive teeth, and tooth erosion are just a few of the signs that may indicate whether a patient might be suffering from an eating disorder. When Dr. Ngo determines that a patient has an eating disorder, she can refer the patient to the appropriate medical personnel, as well as teach the patient about how to minimize the oral effects of the eating disorder.

Can a person recover from an eating disorder?
Yes. Professional help, nutritional counseling, and having a good support network all play a crucial role in the recovery process. For more information, talk to Dr. Ngo or a physician.

For more oral health tips, talk to Dr. Ngo or visit KnowYourTeeth.com. Brought to you by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)

Focus Dental is conveniently located on the corner of Jupiter Rd and Campbell Rd in the Campbell Park Shopping Center at 3443 W Campbell Rd, Ste 650 Garland, TX 75044. So if you are in the Garland, Richardson, Dallas, Plano, Murphy, Sachse, Wylie or surrounding areas in Texas we can help you with your family’s anxiety-free dentistry, fillings, braces, dentures, dental implants, and cosmetic dental needs.

Maintaining a healthy smile for a lifetime starts early. That’s why it’s important for you and your family to visit Dr. Ngo regularly and practice good oral hygiene at home.

Why is brushing so important?
Regular tooth brushing with toothpaste plays a major role in reducing the growth of plaque—a thin, sticky film of bacteria that creates cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease. When you brush your teeth, you remove most of the plaque-causing bacteria. Brushing also helps clean and polish your teeth, removes stains, freshens your breath, and leaves your mouth feeling clean.

What is the best technique for brushing?
There are a number of effective brushing techniques. Patients are advised to check with Dr. Ngo to determine which technique is best for them, since tooth position and gum condition vary. One effective, easy-to-remember technique involves using a circular or elliptical motion to brush a couple of teeth at a time, gradually covering the entire mouth. Avoid using a back-and-forth motion, because this can cause the gum surface to recede, can expose the root surface, or make the root surface tender.

How long should I brush?
Dr. Ngo recommends that you spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth at least twice a day. If you think you’re already doing a good job, you might be surprised: Patients generally think they are brushing longer than they are—most spend less than one minute brushing. To make sure you are brushing for the full two minutes, set an egg timer or invest in a toothbrush with a built-in timer. And, be sure to spend the time wisely: Brush the front and back of teeth, the tongue, the chewing surfaces, and between teeth.

How can I get my children to brush?
The best way to guide your family to good oral health is to lead by example. Start by making dental care part of your family’s daily routine. Depending on the age of your child, there are a number of methods that parents can try to encourage good oral health habits. Some suggestions for making toothbrushing less of a battle with young children include allowing your child to pick out his or her toothbrush (a variety of styles, including musical models, are designed to appeal to kids); letting your child see you and other family members brushing their teeth; and allowing your child to brush his or her own teeth. Parents should supervise toothbrushing by children younger than age 8 to make sure they are doing a thorough job. Parents also should assist young children with daily flossing. Do you have questions about your family’s oral health care? Be sure to talk to Dr. Ngo

For more oral health tips, talk to Dr. Ngo or visit KnowYourTeeth.com. Brought to you by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)

Focus Dental is conveniently located on the corner of Jupiter Rd and Campbell Rd in the Campbell Park Shopping Center at 3443 W Campbell Rd, Ste 650 Garland, TX 75044. So if you are in the Garland, Richardson, Dallas, Plano, Murphy, Sachse, Wylie or surrounding areas in Texas we can help you with your family’s anxiety-free dentistry, fillings, braces, dentures, dental implants, and cosmetic dental needs.

Patients diagnosed with cancer have special needs when it comes to their dental treatment. It is important for patients and Dr. Ngo to discuss dental treatment, its unique aspects during cancer treatment, and what effects cancer and cancer treatment can have on the patient’s mouth.

What effect does cancer have on the mouth?

Cancer—no matter where in the body it occurs—can affect teeth, gums, salivary glands, and other tissues in the mouth.

How does cancer treatment affect the mouth?

Chemotherapy and radiation treatments can affect the mouth, causing side effects that may include:

• Pain in the mouth and gums
• Mouth sores (oral mucositis)
• Dry mouth (xerostomia)
• Tooth decay
• Burning or swollen tongue
• Jaw stiffness
• Problems eating, speaking, and swallowing
• Decreased ability to taste
• Gum disease and bleeding
• Weakened immune system

What should a patient do before beginning cancer treatment?

It is important for you to schedule a thorough dental exam at least two weeks before cancer treatment begins. You should be sure to update your medical history at your our office and tell Dr. Ngo about your physician, treatment, and other aspects of your cancer diagnosis so that she knows how best to treat you and support your physician’s treatment plan.

How should cancer patients care for their mouths?

Patients who have cancer should continue a regular oral hygiene program, including brushing teeth and gums with a soft bristle brush two to three times per day. If the bristles are too hard, either you can rinse the toothbrush in hot water for 15 seconds to soften them or use an ultra-soft toothbrush. Use a mildtasting toothpaste because flavored pastes might irritate your mouth. If toothpaste does irritate your mouth, you can rinse with a solution of salt and water. You also can use an antibacterial mouth rinse for gum disease, but avoid mouth rinses that contain alcohol. Gently floss your teeth at least once per day.

What can patients do about dry mouth?

Cancer patients who experience dry mouth should clean their mouths and teeth at least four times per day and floss at least once per day. But if there are areas of bleeding or soreness on the gums, floss gently or avoid flossing those areas altogether. Cancer patients need to use a fluoride toothpaste when brushing their teeth and apply a fluoride gel as recommended by Dr. Ngo. Patients also can rinse their mouths several times per day with a solution of baking soda and salt in warm water, followed by rinsing with water. Dr. Ngo also may recommend a mouth rinse you can use in addition to regular brushing and flossing.

What should a cancer patient eat?

Because of the changes in the ability to taste, patients who are undergoing cancer treatment may find it more difficult to eat the foods they are used to eating. Cancer patients should eat a balanced diet, including soft, moist foods like cooked cereal, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs, or as recommended by their physician. It is important for patients undergoing cancer treatment to get the right amount of nutrients and calories. If needed, patients can take vitamin supplements that provide healthy minerals and calories. Avoid using tobacco and drinking alcohol during treatment. Acidic foods, such as grapefruit, orange juice, and tomato sauce, may cause irritation. Patients also should avoid acidic, high-sugar beverages like soda and energy drinks.

For more oral health tips, talk to Dr. Ngo or visit KnowYourTeeth.com. Brought to you by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)

Focus Dental is conveniently located on the corner of Jupiter Rd and Campbell Rd in the Campbell Park Shopping Center at 3443 W Campbell Rd, Ste 650 Garland, TX 75044. So if you are in the Garland, Richardson, Dallas, Plano, Murphy, Sachse, Wylie or surrounding areas in Texas we can help you with your family’s anxiety-free dentistry, fillings, braces, dentures, dental implants, and cosmetic dental needs.

Toothpaste has many functions: It delivers fluoride to prevent cavities, cleans your teeth by removing dental plaque and food from your teeth, polishes your teeth and removes stains surface over time, and freshens breath. Overall, toothpaste promotes good oral health.

What’s in toothpaste?
Toothpaste, also known as dentifrice, is available in paste or gel form. Despite the many types of toothpaste that exist, some ingredients are common to most varieties. These include:

• Abrasives, such as silica, to brush away the leftover food and plaque on your teeth with the help of your toothbrush. Abrasives also polish your teeth and remove stains over time, making the teeth appear whiter.
• Fluoride to make the entire tooth structure more resistant to decay and promote remineralization, which makes your teeth stronger.
• Antimicrobial/antigingivitis agents, such as stannous fluoride or triclosan, to fight bacteria in dental plaque and gum disease.
• Anti-tartar agents to help prevent the formation of tartar, also referred to as calcified plaque.
• Desensitizing agents, such as stannous fluoride or potassium nitrate, to relieve tooth sensitivity.
• Surfactants (detergents) and foaming agents to carry away debris from the mouth and between teeth.
• Binding agents to bind all the components of the toothpaste together.
• Humectant to prevent your toothpaste from drying up.
• Flavors and sweetening agents to make the brushing experience more enjoyable.

Why do toothpastes contain abrasives?
Like other products that are designed to clean, toothpastes contain abrasive agents to help remove stains from teeth. While toothpaste must be abrasive enough to remove surface stains and dental plaque, it must not be so abrasive that it wears away vital tooth enamel.

How do I minimize the risk of tooth wear?
Wear on the teeth can be minimized by practicing proper brushing techniques, which includes using short and gentle strokes in a circular motion with a soft bristle brush.

How do I know which toothpaste is right for me?
When it comes to choosing the best toothpaste for you, it’s important to think about your unique oral health needs. Some toothpastes aim to alleviate pain associated with sensitive teeth. Some help to control plaque and tartar. Some are designed to remove stains and whiten teeth. Some do all of the above. Because each toothpaste is uniquely formulated to perform specific functions, speak with Dr. Ngo to determine which is right for you.

For more oral health tips, talk to Dr. Ngo or visit KnowYourTeeth.com. Brought to you by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)

Focus Dental is conveniently located on the corner of Jupiter Rd and Campbell Rd in the Campbell Park Shopping Center at 3443 W Campbell Rd, Ste 650 Garland, TX 75044. So if you are in the Garland, Richardson, Dallas, Plano, Murphy, Sachse, Wylie or surrounding areas in Texas we can help you with your family’s anxiety-free dentistry, fillings, braces, dentures, dental implants, and cosmetic dental needs.

What is minimally invasive dentistry and how is it different from regular dentistry?
The goal of minimally invasive dentistry, or microdentistry, is to conserve healthy tooth structure. It focuses on prevention, remineralization, and minimal dentist intervention. Using scientific advances, minimally invasive dentistry allows dentists to perform the least amount of dentistry needed while never removing more of the tooth structure than is required to restore teeth to their normal condition. In addition, in minimally invasive dentistry, dentists use long-lasting dental materials that conserve the maximum tooth structure so the need for future repairs is reduced.
How does it work? First Dr. Ngo will evaluate your risk for tooth decay. The presence of bacteria, quality and quantity of saliva, and your diet are all contributors to decay. Dr. Ngo will then use strategies to prevent or reduce your risk for tooth decay. For instance, if you have a high level of oral bacteria, you might be advised to use mouthwash daily, limit the intake of certain carbohydrates, and practice good oral hygiene.

Which techniques are used? Minimally invasive dentistry techniques include:
Remineralization: Remineralization is the process of restoring minerals. Remineralization can repair the damage created by the demineralization process. Fluoride plays a very important role in remineralization.

Air abrasion: When a tooth cannot be remineralized and decay is present, Dr. Ngo may use air abrasion to remove the decay. Air abrasion is used instead of a traditional drill and may not require anesthesia. It resembles microscopic sand blasting and uses a stream of air combined with a super-fine abrasive powder.

Sealants: Usually made of plastic resin, dental sealants protect teeth from bacteria that cause decay. Sealants fit into the grooves and depressions of the tooth and act as a barrier, protecting against acid and plaque. Sealants do not require any cutting of the tooth and can be placed on teeth that might be susceptible for decay at any time.

Inlays and onlays: Usually dentists use crowns to restore a tooth, but inlays and onlays do not require them to remove as much of the tooth structure. Inlays are similar to fillings except that they are custom-made to fit the cavity in your tooth and are typically the same color as the tooth or gold colored. Onlays are used for more substantial reconstruction and also do not require your dentist to remove as much of the tooth as would a crown.

Bite splints: Many people grind their teeth at night. Grinding, or bruxism, may cause serious damage to the teeth, and may require you to need crowns. Grinding, which often begins in your teenage years or early 20s, can be detected and corrected before much damage has been done. Dentists can create bite splints for you to wear at night or during stressful times when most teeth-grinding occurs.

For more oral health tips, talk to Dr. Ngo or visit KnowYourTeeth.com. Brought to you by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)

Focus Dental is conveniently located on the corner of Jupiter Rd and Campbell Rd in the Campbell Park Shopping Center at 3443 W Campbell Rd, Ste 650 Garland, TX 75044. So if you are in the Garland, Richardson, Dallas, Plano, Murphy, Sachse, Wylie or surrounding areas in Texas we can help you with your family’s anxiety-free dentistry, fillings, braces, dentures, dental implants, and cosmetic dental needs.

Mouth sores—they can be painful and irritating when you eat certain foods, when you bump them with your tongue or teeth, or even when you try to smile. They can be caused by ill-fitting dentures, braces, the sharp edge of a broken tooth, bacteria, a fungal or viral infection, or they can be a symptom of a disease or disorder.

What are mouth sores? Mouth sores are swollen spots or sores in your mouth, on your lips, on your tongue, or on the skin surrounding your mouth. There are several types of mouth sores, including:

Canker sores. Canker sores are small, white areas of swelling or soreness that are surrounded by redness. Canker sores are not contagious. The cause of canker sores is uncertain, but some research suggests that immune system deficiencies, bacteria, or viruses might be the culprits. Smoking, stress, trauma, allergies, certain types of foods (chocolate, caffeine, or acidic foods), or vitamin deficiencies also may make you more susceptible to canker sores. Canker sores usually heal within one week, but they can recur. And, while there is no cure for canker sores, over the-counter topical ointments or gels that provide temporary pain relief are available. Antimicrobial mouth rinses also may help to relieve pain.

Cold sores. Often, people confuse canker sores with cold sores (also called fever blisters). Cold sores are groups of often-painful blisters filled with fluid that appear around the lips and sometimes under the nose. A person usually experiences his or her first cold sore infection in childhood. Once a person has had a cold sore, the virus stays in the body and can become active throughout the person’s life. Cold sores are extremely contagious and usually are caused by herpes simplex virus. Infection may be brought on by decreased immune response, lack of sleep, stress, or trauma. Cold sore blisters usually heal within seven to 10 days. While there is no cure for cold sores, non-prescription topical anesthetics for temporary pain relief are available. Dr. Ngo also might prescribe an antiviral drug to reduce the infection.

Leukoplakia. Leukoplakia appears on the inner cheeks, gums, or tongue and often appears as a thick, white-colored patch. It is associated with smoking or smokeless tobacco use. Other causes can include poorly fitting dentures, broken teeth, and cheek chewing. It is extremely important to report any signs of leukoplakia to Dr. Ngo or physician because an estimated 5 percent of cases of leukoplakia lead to cancer. Leukoplakia usually dissipates after the behavior causing the leukoplakia is ceased (stopping smoking or removing ill-fitting dentures, for example). Dr. Ngo will check your healing progress every few months depending on the type, area of your mouth, and size of the affected area.

Candidiasis. Candidiasis is a fungal infection that also is called oral thrush. Candidiasis appears as yellow-white or red patches in your mouth. Oral thrush is most common in newborns or in people whose immune systems are not functioning properly. People who have dry mouth or who are taking antibiotics also may be susceptible. It is found in people who wear dentures, as well. Candidiasis may form at the corners of the mouth with poor-fitting dentures. In these individuals, outbreaks of oral thrush can be prevented by cleaning the dentures and by removing them at night, if recommended by Dr. Ngo. If antibiotics cause the condition, Dr. Ngo may consider reducing the dosage or changing the treatment. For those with dry mouth, saliva substitutes are available. Antifungal medications also are available.

Oral cancer. Oral cancer often starts as a tiny white or red spot or sore. Sometimes oral cancer presents itself as a sore that bleeds easily or does not heal. Or, it can be a lump or a thick or rough spot. It can affect any area of the mouth, including the lips, gums, tongue, and hard or soft palate. If you have pain, tenderness, or numbness anywhere in the mouth or on the lips that does not go away after a week, talk to Dr. Ngo. Oral cancer most often affects people who use tobacco. If you use tobacco, talk to Dr. Ngo or medical physician about tobacco cessation treatment plans. Also, Dr. Ngo can check your mouth (and probably does) for oral cancer very easily and quickly during your routine cleaning and exam. Ask Dr. Ngo if she performs oral cancer screenings to be sure.

Should I be concerned? Mouth sores are common and rarely cause complications. Most go away in about a week, but it’s important to monitor any mouth sores you develop. If you are concerned, or if the sore doesn’t seem to be healing, contact Dr. Ngo or other medical professional for an examination.

For more oral health tips, talk to Dr. Ngo or visit KnowYourTeeth.com. Brought to you by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)

Focus Dental is conveniently located on the corner of Jupiter Rd and Campbell Rd in the Campbell Park Shopping Center at 3443 W Campbell Rd, Ste 650 Garland, TX 75044. So if you are in the Garland, Richardson, Dallas, Plano, Murphy, Sachse, Wylie or surrounding areas in Texas we can help you with your family’s anxiety-free dentistry, fillings, braces, dentures, dental implants, and cosmetic dental needs.

Oral cancer is a common form of cancer, with roughly 35,000 new cases reported annually in the United States. The most frequent oral cancer sites are the tongue, the floor of the mouth, the soft palate, and the tissues in the lips, gums, and back of the tongue. If not diagnosed and treated in its early stages, oral cancer can spread, leading to chronic pain, loss of oral function, irreparable facial and oral disfigurement following surgery, and even death. For this reason, it’s important to regularly visit Dr. Ngo so she can perform a thorough screening for oral cancer.

How do dentist screen for cancer?
Dr. Ngo will screen for oral cancer during routine checkups. During the screening, he or she will feel for lumps or irregular tissue changes in your neck, head, cheeks, and oral cavity and will thoroughly examine the soft tissues in your mouth, specifically looking for sores or discolored tissues.

What causes oral cancer?
Scientist aren’t sure of the exact cause of oral cancer. However, the carcinogens in tobacco products and alcohol, as well as excessive exposure to the sun, have been found to increase the risk of developing oral cancer. Research also suggests that some forms of oral cancer may be caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV)

What are the warning signs?
Oral cancer- represented by red, white, or discolored lesions and patches or lumps in or around the mouth-is typically painless in its early stages. As the malignant cancer spreads and destroys healthy oral tissue, the lesions or lumps may become more painful. See Dr. Ngo immediately if you observe any sore that persists longer than two weeks; swelling growth, or lump anywhere in or around the mouth or neck; white or red patched in the mouth or throat; difficulty swallowing; or persistent hoarseness.

How can I prevent oral cancer?
You can prevent oral cancer by abstaining from all forms of tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption. According to a study in the May/June 2007 issue of General Dentistry, the clinical, peer-reviewed journal of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), vaccines that have been developed to treat HPV might decrease the risk of developing oral cancer. Because successful treatment and rehabilitation are dependent on early detection, it is extremely important to regularly check your mouth for changes in appearance and see your dentist for an oral cancer screening and regular checkup at least every six months. Survival rates greatly increase the earlier oral cancer is discovered and treated. During your next dental visit, ask Dr. Ngo to do an oral cancer screening.

For more oral health tips, talk to Dr. Ngo or visit KnowYourTeeth.com. Brought to you by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)

Focus Dental is conveniently located on the corner of Jupiter Rd and Campbell Rd in the Campbell Park Shopping Center at 3443 W Campbell Rd, Ste 650 Garland, TX 75044. So if you are in the Garland, Richardson, Dallas, Plano, Murphy, Sachse, Wylie or surrounding areas in Texas we can help you with your family’s anxiety-free dentistry, fillings, braces, dentures, dental implants, and cosmetic dental needs.

Regular dental exams not only help decrease your risk of oral diseases, such as cavities and gum (periodontal) disease, but may also help to diagnose other, sometimes life-threatening, medical conditions. Your dentist is an important part of your health care team. Dr. Ngo is able to assess your overall oral health and may recognize symptoms of serious diseases, including diabetes and cancer, which often manifest as signs and symptoms inside your mouth. There are many diseases with oral manifestations that, in many cases, may first present in the mouth.

Diabetes
More than 25 million people in the United States suffer from diabetes. Diabetes is associated with high levels of blood sugar and is known to lower resistance to infection and increase the chance of the following:
• Gum disease, including gums that bleed easily or are tender and swollen
• Tooth decay
• Taste impairment
• Inflammatory skin disease
• Persistent bad breath
• Changes in teeth position Additionally, patients with diabetes (especially those with dentures) are more likely to experience oral fungal infections, including thrush and oral candidiasis.

Oral cancer
During your regularly scheduled dental check up, Dr. Ngo will also search for signs of oral cancer. Oral indicators of cancer include:
• Sores that bleed easily or do not heal
• Crusted, rough areas of skin
• Lumps or thick hard spots
• Red, brown, or white patches
• Changes in the lymph nodes or other tissues around the mouth and neck
• Tenderness or pain, numbness inside the mouth
• Changes in the way the teeth fit together
While Dr. Ngo checks all patients for these signs and symptoms, patients with a history of smoking, using smokeless tobacco, or drinking heavily are at an increased risk for developing oral cancer.

Eating disorders
Eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, physically damage both your oral and overall health. These disorders, which include patterns of insufficient food intake or excessive food intake with purging, can rob the body of much needed vitamins and minerals. These vitamin and mineral deficiencies can present themselves orally. Without proper nutrition, the gums can lose their healthy pink color and become increasingly soft and tender, bleeding easily. Additionally, disorders that involve excessive vomiting, such as bulimia, can cause discoloration and erosion of the teeth through constant contact with stomach acid. Those with eating disorders may also experience:
• Swollen salivary glands
• Dry mouth
• Thin, sensitive teeth
• Loss of tooth enamel

Alcohol use disorders
Alcohol use disorders affect more than 17 million adults in the United States alone. In addition to causing irreparable social and medical problems, alcohol use disorders can severely impact your oral health. Dentists treating patients with alcohol abuse problems may observe the following signs and symptoms:
• Tooth decay
• Tooth erosion
• Moderate to severe gingivitis (gum disease)
• Gum irregularities
• Poor dental hygiene

Be proactive about your oral health
Diseases that negatively impact your general health also can damage your teeth, gums, and mouth. Regularly scheduled dental exams allow Dr. Ngo to detect or monitor these diseases and recommend treatment. Patients should inform Dr. Ngo about all medical conditions they have or medicines they are taking, which may affect their oral health. Remember, maintaining a healthy body includes taking care of your oral health.

For more oral health tips, talk to Dr. Ngo or visit KnowYourTeeth.com. Brought to you by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)

Focus Dental is conveniently located on the corner of Jupiter Rd and Campbell Rd in the Campbell Park Shopping Center at 3443 W Campbell Rd, Ste 650 Garland, TX 75044. So if you are in the Garland, Richardson, Dallas, Plano, Murphy, Sachse, Wylie or surrounding areas in Texas we can help you with your family’s anxiety-free dentistry, fillings, braces, dentures, dental implants, and cosmetic dental needs.

Bacteria can live in your mouth in the form of plaque, causing cavities and gingivitis, which can lead to periodontal (gum) disease. In order to keep your mouth clean, you must practice good oral hygiene every day.

How do I brush and floss my teeth?

The American Dental Association recommends the following techniques for brushing and flossing your teeth:

Brushing
• Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gums.
• Move the brush back and forth gently in short (tooth-wide) strokes.
• Brush the outer tooth surfaces, the inner tooth surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
• Use the tip of the brush to clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, using a gentle up-and-down stroke.
• Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.

Flossing
• Break off about 18 inches of floss and wind it around the middle fingers of each hand. Hold the floss tightly
between your thumbs and forefingers.
• Guide the floss between your teeth using a gentle rubbing motion.
• When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a C shape against one tooth. Gently slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth.
• Bring the floss back toward the contact point between the teeth and move the floss up or down the other side, conforming the floss to the shape of the tooth.
• Hold the floss tightly against the tooth. Gently rub the side of the tooth, moving the floss away from the gum with up-and-down motions.
• Repeat this method on the rest of your teeth.

Is there anything else I can use to clean my mouth?

A mouth rinse, in addition to daily brushing and flossing, can increase the cleanliness of your mouth. Antimicrobial mouth rinses reduce bacteria and plaque activity, which cause gingivitis and gum disease. Fluoride mouth rinses also help reduce and prevent tooth decay. Always talk Dr. Ngo about any new products you are interested in trying.
Not everyone should use a fluoride mouth rinse. For instance, fluoride rinses are not recommended for children ages 6 or younger because they may swallow them. Always check the manufacturer’s label for precautions and age recommendations and talk with Dr. Ngo about the use of fluoride mouth rinse.

For more oral health tips, talk to Dr. Ngo or visit KnowYourTeeth.com. Brought to you by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)

Focus Dental is conveniently located on the corner of Jupiter Rd and Campbell Rd in the Campbell Park Shopping Center at 3443 W Campbell Rd, Ste 650 Garland, TX 75044. So if you are in the Garland, Richardson, Dallas, Plano, Murphy, Sachse, Wylie or surrounding areas in Texas we can help you with your family’s anxiety-free dentistry, fillings, braces, dentures, dental implants, and cosmetic dental needs.