Chomper Care

I used to have dreams that my teeth were crumbling apart and falling out of my mouth.  This is, apparently, a common dream that many believe is symbolic on insecurities and stress.  I was a teenager so, well, enough said.  However, the dream may have had more to do with the clenching and grinding that was forming fracture lines in my teeth.  I have been clenching and grinding since I had 2 teeth to rub together.  The night guard I have is helping but still needs some adjusting.  [Most of the best night guards are custom made by dentists or TMJ specialists.  A mold is taken of your teeth and a lab makes the guard to your doctor’s specifications.  They tend to be thin and smooth on the outside.  The cost can range greatly.  I have seen between $350-$2500.  The more specialized the practitioner and the more severe the cause, usually the more expensive it gets.  I am trying to get away with a lower cost one.]

If teeth and gums are are sick, so the body may be as well.  Bacteria can enter the blood stream through damaged gums.  Some research suggests that the inflammation seen with gum disease may be linked to systemic inflammatory conditions such as:  diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and heart disease.  They are still trying to identify exactly if and how they may be related.  Patients that have had joint replacements are often advised to take antibiotics in preparation for dental work to avoid an infection that could result in another joint surgery.  I met one person who had an infection in their teeth that spread into their brain and tho the infection is long gone, she has chronic pain the length of her spine.  Not having good chompers can also compromise the ability to take in nutrition.

A hygienist once told me, “you only have to floss the teeth you want to keep.”  I, recently, purchased a power tooth brush, with the gentle brush, that does an amazing job.   There are a few that look like they do just as much, but I am happy with this one.  Any tooth brush will do.  Survivor contestants use sticks!  Chewing gum can even help.

Thank you to http://godshealingplants.wordpress.com/2012/04/23/healthy-eating-benefits/ for the inspiration.

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