Lip Care in Cold Weather

As the weather cools and we head into the winter, many people are struggling with chapping on their lips. This isn’t just painful or inconvenient, although that would be bad enough. Lip damage can lead to dry mouth and create problems for oral health. People who have recently undergone procedures such as implant placement and are drooling more than normal can be especially impacted. So to help our patients maintain good oral health, we at Dr. Martin Urban’s Massachusetts dental practice wanted to provide guidance on lip care.

Our lips become chapped because of the low moisture content in cold air. But if we add moisture to them by licking or chewing on them, that moisture will evaporate, leaving them even more chapped. Instead, we should use balm to lock moisture in. When picking a balm, it is important to avoid spice, eucalyptus, menthol, or salicyclic acid, as these often cause inflammation and can further burn pre-existing fissures. By contrast, chemicals like titanium oxide and zinc oxide will provide protection against sun damage. Other good options include balm derived from mineral oils.

Balm has to be applied throughout the day and before a person goes to bed. Other lip care strategies include staying hydrated and using a humidifier in the bedroom, at a desk, and anywhere else we spend a lot of time. It is also tempting to take long showers this time of year, but this will likely increase chapping on the lips and the rest of the body.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.

 

Asthma and Oral Health

If you suffer from asthma, you may be at heightened risk for developing gum disease. We at the dental offices of Dr. Martin Urban have helped a lot of people to manage dry mouth and resulting symptoms such as tooth decay, gum recession, and bad breath. To assist asthma patients with their preventive care, we wanted to explain why it is so important for them to take steps to prevent dry mouth-related damage.

People who have difficulty breathing through their noses often resort to breathing through their mouths, particularly when asleep. This is a problem for oral health because saliva does more than wash away sugary food debris. It also neutralizes acid that is produced by bacteria, regurgitated from the stomach, or in drinks such as soda and citrus juices. Furthermore, saliva contains enzymes that kill disease-causing bacteria and fungus.

Mouth-breathing is not the only reason people with asthma may experience higher levels of dry mouth. A reduction in saliva flow is also a common medication side effect. Patients should not stop using medication without a doctor’s recommendation, but they should ask about alternatives. They may stimulate saliva production by chewing sugar-free gum or using a prescription-strength throat moisturizer. Patients should also be aware that inhaler medication may contain sugars that will fuel bacteria growth, so they should brush their teeth after using it.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.

 

Acid Reflux

It’s the time of year for feasting, and for that, the teeth better be in good working order. We’re proud to have provided many people with dental restorations at the office of Dr. Martin Urban, but artificial teeth have to be protected from acidic erosion, just like natural ones. Tooth decay is one potential source of harm, but there is another party-goers should beware of: acid reflux.

Sometimes, the sphincter that separates the stomach from the esophagus accidentally opens, allowing acid to escape upwards. When this happens more than twice a week, it is called Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). The burning sensation of acid in the esophagus is misleadingly called heartburn. Stomach acid is highly corrosive, and when it enters the mouth, it wears away enamel. Natural teeth being eroded by acid reflux will turn a chalky color and become more sensitive, with the inward-facing sides of the upper teeth being the worst affected. Plastic dentures can also be eroded, requiring them to be replaced.

Acid reflux can often be prevented by changes in lifestyle such as the cessation of smoking. Patients are also advised to avoid eating before bed or while reclining and to limit their intake of alcohol, red meat, spice, onions and garlic, chocolate, and citric acid. Saliva helps to combat acid, so patients might want to ask their doctors about switching away from medications that cause dry mouth.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.