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Being the last of the molars and the last to erupt, complications due to wisdom teeth are fairly common. They can even cause tooth movement, oftentimes reversing previously received or ongoing orthodontic treatment. Therefore, when a dentist says these teeth need to be removed, there’s just no other way.

Despite the reputation of how painful and terrible recovery post- oral surgery can be, in most cases, the cause of such stress is due to the negligence of after-care and unawareness of how to manage the open extraction site properly.

So we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of 10 things you must do for recovery, proven by facts, experience, and statistics. If you want to learn how to avoid post-surgery complications and reduce post-operative pain upon removal of wisdom teeth, continue reading the instruction list below.

1. Don’t Spit

Immediately after the removal of a wisdom tooth, blood and saliva may pool in the mouth. Simultaneously, the body’s defense system forms a blood clot as a plug in the extraction site to stop the bleeding and begin healing. Removing blood/saliva from your mouth has to be done with utmost care, making sure that there is no spitting force that would potentially create a vacuum in the mouth that could dislodge the healing blood clot. The recommended way to do so is by opening your mouth slightly over a sink and letting the blood/saliva flow out while tilting your head forward. Creating a suction pressure in the mouth and dislodging the naturally occurring blood clot in the extraction area can cause painful complications such as a dry socket

2. Do Not Use Straws

As explained above, preserving the blood clot is of utmost importance; another way to ensure that it remains intact is by avoiding the use of straws after the procedure until healing has occurred. The use of straws, just like spitting, creates a suction pressure in the mouth that should be avoided.

3. Eat Soft and Slightly Cold Food

Post-surgery it is recommended not to have anything very hot or very cold at least in the first 24 hours after the extraction. Most dentists recommend slightly melted ice cream for a cooling effect after a same-day wisdom tooth extraction. In general, food items that are soft and slightly cold, requiring very minimal chewing forces, are considered best to consume. Some examples of acceptable food are:

• Yogurt
• Mashed Potatoes and Vegetables
• Soup (warm but not hot)
• Pudding
• Bananas
• Soft bread
• Applesauce
• Porridge

While chewing, attempts should be made to try and chew on the opposite side of the mouth from the extraction site, It’s important to be mindful to chew carefully so as not to bite your cheek or lip that may still be numb from anesthesia shortly after the procedure. It is also advised to avoid any hot drinks such as coffee and tea for the first 24 hours; however, they can be taken warm. Ideally, the soft diet should be continued for at least 48 hours after surgery.

4. Use Warm Saltwater Rinses

After 24 hours have passed since the extraction procedure, you should now begin saltwater rinses. The way to do this is by warming up a cup of tap water and adding a levelled teaspoon of salt and stirring it into the water. Rinse gently with the salt solution, holding it in the mouth for a minute and swishing it around. Saltwater rinses help curb infections, stop food from lodging in areas where brushing with a toothbrush may not be possible, provide relief to inflamed tissues in the mouth, and help ease the gums by promoting quicker healing. You should do this at least 3 to 4 times a day for about a week, especially after meals.

5. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol

Smoking and alcohol should be off-limits on the day of and for 24 hours post-surgery. Smoking reduces blood circulation which can, in turn, affect healing. The smoke itself in the mouth can trigger and delay wound healing, possibly leading to infections if a blood clot has been dislodged or not formed yet. Alcohol is also discouraged, as its negative effect on the wound site can also lead to complications, including infections.

6. Take Your Medication on Time

One of the best ways to manage inevitable wisdom teeth removal pain and discomfort is by timely taking your prescribed medicines, on schedule. Taking painkillers at the right time ensures the therapeutic effect of stays consistent and stable, providing the best way to manage your pain. Following the routine allows a more efficient therapeutic effect and minimal distress.

7. Ice the Area

Icing the affected cheek area with an ice pack has been reported to manage inflammation, pain, and sometimes swelling. Care should be taken to moderately manage icing times and durations and to avoid ice packs completely if you have cold intolerance or hypersensitivity. 

8. Sleep with Your Head Elevated

To avoid the pooling of blood in the missing wisdom tooth area, it is advised to sleep with your head elevated for the first few nights after the procedure. Not doing so could cause the wound to throb and result in discomfort.

9. Avoid Strenuous Exercise

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends limiting strenuous activity for at least 24 hours after the extraction procedure to reduce chances of post-surgery bleeding and to minimize chances of blood clot dislodgment.

10. Don’t Miss Your Checkup Appointment

It is important to review and follow up with your dental practitioner at the time appointed to you, especially if you have had any stitches placed so they can be removed. You should visit your dentist earlier if you notice heavy bleeding, increased pain after surgery, foul taste or odor in the mouth, and fever during the recovery period.

Better Care Begins with Awareness

Knowing how to take care of your extraction site is the first step in proper management. All steps and efforts should be taken to follow your dental practitioner’s medical advice diligently and to practice methods that will promote faster healing. Straying from these instructions can come at the cost of a post-surgery infection or a hemorrhage which would further complicate and delay healing, not to mention increase pain and discomfort. Being careful and diligently following care instructions ensures quick recovery!

Dr. Hanaa Nasir is a dental professional who has worked for a well-recognized dental hospital in Pakistan, and is in the process of attaining her further education from Australia. Having graduated with honors, she is currently pursuing her Masters in Oral Surgery. Still in the early process of research based on Psychology and Dentistry, she aims to broaden dental care, and advocate for it to be integrated with mental health. Dr. Nasir dedicates most of her time to science and medicine, balancing it with her love of poetry and art. She is a regular contributor to the Rockwest Dental Clinic.

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How Often Should You Visit Your Dentist?

Over 100 million Americans do not visit their dentist consistently every year, and this has significant repercussions on the oral health of the population. Indeed, regular visits to the dentist are required to maintain good oral health. That being said, you are probably asking yourself the following question: How often do I have to visit my dentist? The answer to this question varies, contrary to most expectations. In this article, you will find the answer to the above question and an explanation of its reasoning.

The typical twice-a-year recommendation:

Truth or Myth?

You’ve probably heard the recommendation that you should visit your dentist twice a year. However, as funny as it may sound, this recommendation originated from an advertisement for toothpaste and not from actual dental studies! This recommendation is a good rule of thumb for many people, but should not be applied to everyone – depending on their oral health needs, some people may need to visit their dentist more or less often.

So, why do some people need to see their dentist less often and why should others visit more frequently?

The only person who can give you a valid and precise answer to this question is … your dentist of course! As mentioned above, some people need to see their dentist more than twice a year, especially those with a greater risk of dental disease and other health conditions that require visits to their dentist every 3 months, or more. Patients with good oral health overall will probably need to visit only once every 12 to 24 months.

Who should go to the dentist more often?

Pregnant women

With hormonal changes during pregnancy, gums can become red, tender, and sore. In that case, your dentist might recommend additional cleanings during your second trimester and early third trimester to help control gingivitis – hence the importance of seeing your dentist more often when pregnant.

Diabetics

Since people with diabetes are more prone to gum disease, and since literature suggests that treating gum disease can help improve blood sugar control, having professional deep cleanings more often than twice a year is recommended for diabetic people.

• Smokers are more prone to periodontal diseases and more likely to have stained teeth, and therefore may need appointments more often.
• People with gum disease.
• People with a weak immune response.
• People who are prone to cavities or plaque build-up

Why are regular check-ups important?

They allow early detections of dental and oral issues, allowing better health management:

• Even if you brush your teeth twice a day and floss as recommended, you still need to visit your dentist. Patients are unable to detect things like cavities or gum disease before they get too advanced and painful. Regular visits make it possible for early detection of oral health problems, so patients can avoid them or halt their progress. An additional and major benefit is the fact that oral cancers are most often detected by dentists since they examine not only your teeth, but also your gums and mouth. These oral cancer screenings can therefore help detect cancerous lesions that can be more effectively treated when caught early.
• Ultimately, visiting your dentist as regularly as recommended will save you time, discomfort, and even money in the long run.

In conclusion, the better you take care of your teeth, the less chance you will have of developing cavities and oral health problems. In turn, you will need to visit your dentist less often. Brush your teeth twice a day as recommended, and do not hesitate to use dental floss, interdental brushes, or an oral irrigator. Your dentist might then lengthen the time between your visits! Always follow your dentist’s advice in terms of your next appointment for optimal oral health.

Suzanna Maria Sayegh graduated in Oral Pathology, earned a Master’s in Research and a Doctorate in Dental Surgery at the Saint-Joseph University of Beirut. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Aesthetic and Prosthetic Dentistry. It is her top priority to provide high-quality, minimally invasive dental care to each patient, respecting their individual goals and needs. She is currently writing for Bond Street Dental.

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Dental veneer types:

Generally, dental veneers are made of porcelain or composite resin. Porcelain veneers are more resistant to stains than resin veneers. They also better imitate the light-reflecting properties of natural teeth.  

What kind of issues are solved by dental veneers?

Veneers are regularly used to treat the following issues:

• Teeth that are discolored due to food, drink, or smoke staining
• Treatment of root canal
• Tooth stains caused by tetracycline or fluorosis
• Large filling of resins
• Teeth that have been worn down
• Teeth that have been chipped or lost

The cost of dental veneers

Insurers do not cover veneers since they are considered a cosmetic procedure. According to the Consumer Dentistry Guide, conventional veneers can cost an average of $925 to $2,500 per tooth, and they can last about 10 to 15 years. No-prep veneers cost between $800 and $2000 per tooth and last between 5 and 7 years. Traditional veneers are typically the most cost-effective option for the long term. However, your veneers’ cost will depend on factors like what type of veneers you want, what brand of veneers your dentist carries, the cost of living in your city, and the dentist’s expertise. 

Ultimately, it varies by type of veneer:

Composite veneers: Often known as direct veneers, these coatings are applied to the teeth during a single dental appointment and cost around $250 per tooth. They typically last from 5 to 7 years and then need to be replaced.

Porcelain veneers: Often known as indirect veneers, these coatings are custom-made to match your teeth, so they require two dental appointments for the procedure: One to match your teeth to the veneers, and another to position them. Porcelain veneers cost more than composite veneers, usually at least $1,000 per tooth, but last for at least 10 to 15 years and often even longer.

These veneers are more resistant and natural-looking than composite veneers. However, composite veneers are thinner, so fewer dental surfaces need to be removed before they are applied.  

Benefits of dental veneers

Veneers offer the following advantages:

• Offers a natural appearance to the tooth
• The gums handle porcelain well
• Porcelain veneers are immune to staining
• You may pick a shade to make dark teeth whiter
• They usually don’t need to be formed as much as crowns do, but they are more robust and look better

How are veneers applied on the teeth?

Based on records, it usually takes between one and two weeks after your dentist makes a mold to get your veneers back out of the lab. When your veneers are in, you should make an appointment to have them installed. At this visit, your dentist will check the fit, shape, and color of the veneers to make sure they are right for you.

First, the dentist brushes the teeth thoroughly. After doing this, they use a grinding tool to create a rougher texture for each tooth on which the veneer is to be applied. This makes it easier for the veneer to adhere to the tooth. Your dentist will then use dental cement to attach the veneer to the tooth. Finally, ultraviolet light is used to harden the cement quickly.

Veneer Process – What to Expect

Dental veneer treatment can be performed in two visits over six weeks. The visits are extensive and can entail several hours of review and dental planning. Dental offices usually have facilities that include sedation and audio / visual entertainment, and dental spas also provide massages and other treatments to help you relax and remain comfortable during your visit.

The evaluation and assessment phase of care is necessary to recognize any oral health issues that need to be addressed before the veneer placement. Your dentist will also work with you to pick the right color for your teeth from a unique hue map. Imaging technologies will provide you with a snapshot of your expected outcome and allow you to view successful before and after images from other cases. Treatment starts when the assessment is finished and a personalized plan has been designed.

Step by Step Procedure

There are a few phases to the veneer process. The dentist is likely to give you a local anaesthetic so you’ll be comfortable during the process of your veneer placement. Your natural tooth is then prepared by minimally reshaping it with a small handheld rotary cutting device called a bur to get the best match. If your treatment requires direct composite veneers, your dentist can apply a correctly shaded composite to your teeth, form the material, and harden it with a high-intensity light.

Additional layers of composite can be used to make the veneer the correct form and length of your smile. When all the composites are mounted, the veneers will be finished and polished using burs and polishers to produce a vital, natural smile.

If your treatment involves porcelain veneers, the dentist will make an impression of your teeth from which the mouth is molded. This impression can be sent to an outside dental laboratory where the veneers are professionally produced.

However, some dentists have an in-house dental laboratory and technicians to provide remedial and aesthetic treatments in less time. Other dentists have CAD/CAM chair technology and can render veneers in just one visit.

Dental Laboratories, CAD/CAM, and Timeframes

Dentists usually collaborate with outside dental laboratories to produce the required restorations. And, as mentioned, some dental laboratories use CAD/CAM technology to create veneers. If your procedure is performed in a dental laboratory, you may obtain a temporary appointment at the time of your training.

Temporary veneers offer a hint of the planned result, although it should be noted that temporary veneers will not always be used. If your treatment requires one or a few teeth and enough enamel remains on the surface, your dentist can forgo a temporary procedure.

Increased sensitivity can also occur if you have temporary positions or for a limited period after the final veneers have been mounted. During the placement appointment, your dentist will eliminate the timeframes and position the final veneers, after which they will review and modify to ensure optimum fit and color.

Recovery and Post-Process Treatment

Veneers are robust and have been shown to last for several years before they need to be replaced. Seeing your dentist and hygienist for routine exams and dental cleaning is vital for preserving your oral health and the durability of your recovery. Aftercare is also essential.

Chipped or broken porcelain veneers cannot be fixed, so your dentist can inform you of the expense and time associated with replacing damaged porcelain veneers.

Do not bite or chew hard objects such as nuts, shells, or bones to minimize injury risk, and don’t use your teeth to open or tear packets. Your dentist may also warn you to avoid some foods that can cause harm to you and your new veneers. Clean and floss your teeth as you usually would, and make sure to use a non-abrasive toothpaste. 

In general, veneers do not need special treatment. Continue to observe good oral hygiene habits, including brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash as usual. While porcelain veneers are resistant to stains, your dentist might recommend that you avoid staining foods and beverages (e.g., coffee, tea, or red wine).

Risks of dental veneers

• The procedure cannot be reversed.
• Veneers cost more than the bonding of composite resin.
• Typically, veneers cannot be fixed if they chip or crack.
• Since the enamel has been lost, the tooth may become more sensitive to hot and cold food and drinks.
• Though unlikely, the veneers could dislodge and fall off. So, do not bite your nails, chew on pencils, ice, or other hard objects, or otherwise place too much pressure on your teeth to reduce the risk of this happening.
• Veneers are not the right choice for people with oral health concerns (for example, those with decay or active gum disease), damaged teeth (due to deterioration, fracture, large dental fillings), or those who do not have enough existing enamel on the tooth surface. 
• People who clench and grit their teeth are poor candidates for porcelain veneers, as this can cause veneers to crack or chip.

Dental veneer substitutes

Alternatives to veneers include bonding and crowning. Veneers could be your best option if you want to alter your tooth shape more than just a little bit, like bonding, but not enough to require a crown.

Dental veneers can be used to treat: 

The main advantage of veneers is to enhance the quality of your teeth, giving you a brighter, more even smile. Dental veneers are sometimes used to treat the following cosmetic conditions:

• Chipped teeth
• Extreme discoloration or irregular coloring that cannot be corrected by whitening
• A gap in the teeth
• Smaller than average teeth
• Pointed teeth 

Summary 

Dental veneers are cosmetic devices that modify the appearance of a person’s teeth. Dental veneers enhance color, provide a natural tooth shape, minimize cracks, cover chips, and hide other minor tooth damage. Veneers can vary in cost and durability.

Porcelain veneers are usually healthier and last longer, but come with a far higher price. If you’re looking for a long-term solution for major cosmetic issues, dental veneers could be your ticket to a beautiful smile.

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Our body can go without food for about one to two months, and only three to four days without water. How long can we survive without breathing? Now imagine choking several times an hour, hundreds of times every night, over several years. 

When did choking in our sleep become normal? Today more than 1 billion people suffer from drowning-like events in their sleep, and 85% of them are unaware of their condition.

Popping and clicking of the jaw joints, TMJ pain, snoring or waking up gasping for air, mouth breathing, and teeth grinding and/or clenching are NOT normal and should never occur. They are signs your body is struggling and fighting to get the air it needs, going into a fight-or-flight mode that affects your overall health.

Why is a full night’s sleep so important?

Proper sleep and breathing is on the forefront of medical research. While there is much more to learn, it is now widely accepted that there are many important biological processes that occur during healthy sleep, such as:

• Proper brain function: Healthy sleep allows neurons to reorganize. When you sleep, your brain’s glymphatic system (water clearance) clears out waste from the central nervous system. It removes toxic byproducts from your brain, which build up throughout the day. This allows your brain to work well when you wake up. Sleep also contributes to memory functions by converting short-term memories into long-term memories.
• Weight regulation: Sleep affects your weight by controlling hunger hormones. Specific hormones including ghrelin, which increases appetite, and leptin, which increases the feeling of being full after eating, are regulated during sleep. Poor sleep elevates the production of ghrelin and suppresses leptin. This imbalance makes you hungrier, which may increase the risk of eating more calories and gaining weight.
• Proper insulin function: Some studies suggest sleep may protect against insulin resistance. By keeping cells healthy they are able to process glucose more efficiently. The brain also requires less glucose while sleeping, which may help the body regulate overall blood glucose. Insulin is an important hormone that helps your cells convert and use glucose, or sugar, for energy. Insulin resistance causes the cells to fail to respond properly to insulin. Insulin resistance can lead to high blood glucose levels and, eventually, Type 2 diabetes. Some research suggests healthy sleep can protect against insulin resistance.
• Immunity: Your body makes cytokines during sleep. Cytokines are special proteins that fight infection and inflammation. Certain antibodies and immune cells are also created during healthy sleep. These molecules help defend against illness by destroying harmful germs. During sleep, your body produces cytokines, which are important proteins that fight infection and inflammation. That’s why sleep is so important when you’re sick or stressed. During these times, the body needs even more immune cells and proteins. Healthy sleep may promote a strong and healthy immune system enabling your body to fight infections.
• Heart health: Interrupted or unhealthy sleep has also been linked to risk factors which impact overall heart health. These include hypertension, overactive sympathetic nervous system activity and elevated levels of the stress hormone cortisone.
• Emotional wellbeing: Healthy sleep is necessary for emotional health. During sleep, specific regions of the brain are actively regulating emotion while supporting healthy brain function and emotional stability.
• Cellular restoration: Every cell in your body is designed to restore itself. This happens during deep, restful sleep. Sleep enables cells to repair and regrow. Many important processes happen during healthy sleep.
• Energy conservation: The energy conservation theory reveals how our bodies conserve energy during sleep by enabling our body to reduce our caloric requirements.

What happens when we don’t sleep properly?

Sleep deprivation can negatively impact every cell and organ system in the body.

The average adult requires between seven and eight hours of sleep. Interrupted or poor sleep habits can lead to fatigue, poor decision-making and increased risk of accidents.

Additionally, it is becoming more and more evident that sleep deprivation can lead to a variety of chronic health problems including premature death.

Warning signs of chronic sleep deprivation

• Chronic fatigue
• Venous pooling (dark circles under the eyes)
• Snoring
• Daytime sleepiness
• Chronic depression
• Chronic pain (specially neck and back)
• Migraines or persistent headaches
• Heart diseases
• Hypertension
• ADHD symptoms
• Erectile dysfunction
• Insulin resistance (leading to diabetes)
• Bed wetting
• Teeth grinding and/or clenching
• Moodiness and/or anxiety
• Lack of concentration
• Crooked teeth
• Mouth breathing
• TMJ disorders
• Dry mouth

No wonder the most exciting advancements in dentistry are airway-related, and how they can greatly improve your quality of life. Understanding the relationship of our mouth, teeth and airway to the rest of our body is the new frontier of dentistry.

Why is obstructive sleep apnea so common nowadays?

Studies show our modern lifestyle is a big factor. Short breastfeeding period, soft foods diet, tongue and lip ties – these are just a few components that can lead to underdeveloped jaws and narrow palates, which in turn can affect our airways and our breathing and sleep patterns.

Orthodontic treatments that extract teeth to create space are also a common cause of airway and breathing problems. They might straighten the teeth, but also reduce the jaw arc, and consequently the space for the tongue muscles, pushing everything to the back, reducing the airway.

Today more than 80% of adults have had an orthopedic intervention to correct crooked or crowded teeth and a large majority have had their wisdom teeth extracted because their jaws fail to properly develop.

Aging, weight gain, allergies are also factors.

Worth noting is that there are three types of sleep apnea: central, obstructive and mixed (a combination of the two). Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common, in which the airway has become narrowed, blocked or floppy. Central sleep apnea occurs when there’s no blockage of the airway, but the brain doesn’t signal the respiratory muscles to breathe.

Obstructive sleep apnea treatments

Treatment for OSA has traditionally been the use of CPAP machines, surgery or mandibular advancement appliances, which treat the symptoms but not the root cause – and can worsen the condition over time.

Laser therapy is a great new option for many cases, offering a non-invasive, no device and anesthesia-free treatment with immediate results. It decreases snoring and opens the airway by increasing collagen production and shrinking the tissue on the back of the mouth and tongue. It lasts around a year and can be reapplied as needed.

The good news is, today we can treat the root cause of OSA in children and adults with new devices and a multidisciplinary approach, including myofunctional therapists, sleep doctors, ENT (ear, nose and throat) specialists, and chiropractors. By slowly expanding and remodeling the craniofacial structure, we can minimize or eliminate the symptoms of sleep apnea.

This is done with a patented appliance. It’s non-invasive, nearly invisible, painless, and most patients feel the benefits of the treatment within the first days or weeks. Better yet, upon completion of treatment, many patients do not require further intervention for OSA.

We are just starting to realize how our breathing affects our health, and what we can do to improve it. The COVID-19 pandemic has just reinforced the need for a whole-body approach to dentistry, leading to a longer and healthier life.

Being healthy is more important than ever, and your dentist is a powerful ally to achieve it.

Think you’re suffering from sleep apnea? See a dentist today to help treat and get a better night’s sleep.

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What causes black spots on the lips? 

Various factors can cause black or dark spots on a person’s lips. Many causes for this condition can be treated at home with a simple remedy. 

Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is a common and harmless skin condition. Also known as melasma, it occurs when patches of skin become discolored. The colorization may be brown or gray and can appear anywhere. 

Melasma is usually caused by hormone fluctuations, affecting pregnant women the most. 

The patches may fade over time but should be protected from the sun. If the problem persists, topical medications are usually recommended. 

Vitamin deficiency

An uneven skin tone or dark spots can result from vitamin deficiency. A doctor can diagnose deficiencies, usually through blood work. Treatments typically include vitamin-rich diets or multivitamin supplements. 

For extreme cases, doctors may recommend vitamin injections. 

Too much iron

Excess iron can cause hemochromatosis, a disorder in which iron builds up in joints and organs. Those suffering from hemochromatosis may notice skin darkening on lips and other areas. 

Contact your doctor for treatment, which may include regular blood donations or prescription medicine. 

Dehydration

A lack of water can lead to many harmful reactions in the body. Regarding the face, however, it may lead to chapped, irritated skin. The skin on the lips becomes rough, and layers peel off. Scabs, scars, and other color changes may occur. 

The remedy? Drink plenty of water and eat liquid-rich foods throughout the day to avoid dehydration. 

Dental fixtures

Braces, dentures, retainers, and other dental fixtures can cause pressure sores to appear if not placed correctly. Once these pressure sores heal, they often leave behind dark spots on the lips or gums. 

To treat these sores, you may need to find a dentist and book a dentist appointment to correct the fixture. Additionally, the spots need to be protected from sunlight as they heal.

Allergies

Allergies may also cause dark spots on the lips. Allergies that affect the lips are called pigmented contact cheilitis. 

Possible causes of lip irritation include: 

• lipsticks 
• hair dye
• green tea
• makeup
• toothpaste

Should you have an allergic reaction to these substances, stop use immediately and contact a doctor. 

Medications

Some medications may have side effects that may cause skin discoloration on the lips. Some of the medications that cause dark spots on the lips are found in the following categories: 

• cytotoxic drugs
• antipsychotic drugs
• antimalarial drugs
• anticonvulsants 
• antiarrhythmic medications

Treatment may include a change in medication. 

Hormone disorders

Black spots on the lips can result from hormone disorders that cause fluctuations in thyroid hormones. 

Contact a physician for a proper diagnosis and to create a treatment plan. 

Venous Lake

Venous lakes are small blemishes that are slightly elevated. Colors range from dark blue to purple. Typically, they are benign and cause no pain or symptoms, but they may be confused with melanoma. 

While the direct cause of venous lakes is not known, they are usually associated with sun exposure. 

Laser therapy is needed to remove venous lakes. 

Sunspots

Sunspots are tiny areas of hyperpigmentation that appear on the skin when exposed to the sun. Traits include: 

• a flat or possibly raised surface
• colors may be skin tone, slightly pink, red, or dark brown
• rough and dry surface
• crusty or flaky texture
• can range up to an inch in diameter

Sunspots, referred to as actinic keratosis in the medical community, are considered a form of precancer. Consult your doctor for concerns regarding sunspots. They may offer various ways to remove sunspots, including removing them with chemical peels. 

Smoking and drinking

Tobacco products contain harmful chemicals and toxins that can damage the lips and mouth. Additionally, drinking an excessive amount of alcohol may disrupt the toxin balance in the body and cause dark spots to appear on the lips. 

The best way to prevent this symptom is to discontinue or limit the consumption of these products. 

Angiokeratoma

Angiokeratoma is a skin lesion that varies in size, shape, and color. Typically, they are dark red or black and feel hard with an uneven surface. These lesions usually appear in older adults and look like warts. 

Typically, angiokeratomas are harmless. However, you may have a dermatologist inspect the lesions for cancerous growths. 

For those that want to remove an angiokeratoma lesion, laser or freezing are the usual options. 

Cancer

Cancerous growths on the lips may appear in various ways. The following symptoms are common signs that cancer may be developing: 

• an irregularly shaped growth
• a growth that increases rapidly in size
• an open or bloody sore
• a shiny growth
• an unusual color 
• scaly red patches
• scar-like tissue

Can you get a freckle on your lip? 

The short answer? Yes. An oval, brown to black, flat patch on the lip is called a labial melanotic macule or a lip freckle. 

Typically, lip freckles appear in adult women but may also occur in males and younger people. It is usually solitary, mostly appearing on the lower lip. Lip freckles are often confused with other pigmented lesions such as sunspots and melanomas. It is best to consult a doctor to discover the true nature of a dark spot on your lip. 

What does skin cancer on lips look like? 

Lip cancer typically occurs on the lower lip but may be seen on the upper lip. Typically, lip cancer is considered a type of oral cancer. 

Signs of lip cancer typically include: 

• a flat or slightly raised lip discoloration, usually whitish
• a lip sore that won’t heal
• tingling, pain, or numbness of the lips

While the causes of lip cancer are not clear, several factors can increase your risk of developing skin cancer: 

• tobacco use
• fair skin
• excessive sun exposure
• weak immune system

To lower your risk of lip cancer, you should avoid the sun during the middle of the day, wear broad-spectrum sunscreen, avoid tanning beds, and stop using tobacco. If you don’t use tobacco, don’t start. 

Home remedies for dark spots on your lip

Many home remedies claim to eliminate dark spots on the lips. These products are said to eliminate black spots on the lips by making skin healthier or lightening the color: 

• honey
• lemon juice
• apple cider vinegar
• rose petals
• white tea
• turmeric
• nutmeg
• glycerol 
• aloe
• pomegranate
• cucumber juice
• strawberries

You start by rubbing any of the above ingredients onto the lips a few times daily. It is said that by maintaining this routine, the black spot will reduce in appearance. Some of these remedies may involve crushing or blending the ingredients to form a paste or juice.

Protect your skin 

Additionally, you may consider purchasing special lip balms that protect the skin from UV rays. You may also choose to exfoliate with sugar or salt scrubs. Exfoliation removes dead, discolored cells. 

Stop smoking

If dark spots appear on your lips as a result of smoking, the best treatment is to stop smoking. While quitting cold turkey may not be suitable for many people, there are various methods to wean off tobacco use – such as nicotine patches or gum. If you have not started using tobacco products, don’t start. 

When should you see a doctor about black spots on the lips? 

When all else has failed, you should see a doctor. While home remedies are not scientifically tested, some have shown positive results in some people. If the problem persists, you should consult a doctor. 

If any skin lesion grows rapidly, is shiny, or irregular in color or shape, see a doctor immediately. 

As some causes of dark spots on the lips may be dental related, find a dentist near you to fix these issues. If you are concerned that a dark spot on your lips might be cancerous, consult a doctor immediately. 

The post Dark spots on lips: 13 causes, home remedies, and treatments appeared first on The Floss By Opencare.

It is common knowledge that visiting the dentist regularly and keeping your oral health in check is necessary to avoid toothaches, cavities, bad breath, and other dental issues. However, failing to take care of your teeth can also affect your overall physical health, opening the door to heart disease and more complications. 

It’s important to understand the relationship between oral health and overall wellness, in the ways that they are connected and impact one another. Read on for information about physical conditions that are linked to oral health and how to avoid negative outcomes.

How does oral health affect overall health?

Dental health and well-being can impact a person’s overall health and wellness when bacteria from your mouth make their way into your bloodstream. 

Usually, natural defenses, put in place by your body, can prevent bacteria from entering certain systems. However, if you do not practice proper oral hygiene, the bacteria that builds up in the mouth may enter your bloodstream and flow into your body.

Bacteria inside your mouth can also cause tooth decay and gum disease. Research suggests that gum disease is linked to bacterial pneumonia and cardiovascular disease. Hence, paying attention to your oral health can prevent bacteria from entering your body and potentially protect you from worrying health conditions. 

Seeking dental care has implications for your overall health as well as your oral health.

What conditions can be linked to oral health?

Some conditions related to poor dental health and wellness include:

• Cardiovascular Disease: Oral bacteria can cause inflammation. This can increase the chance of heart disease, strokes, and clogged arteries. 
• Endocarditis: When you don’t pay attention to oral hygiene, bacteria from your mouth can flow into your bloodstream and attach themselves to parts of your heart. This creates an infection in the inner valves of your heart.
• Birth complications: Periodontitis can cause pregnancy complications, including giving birth to a premature baby. In addition, periodontal disease, if treated, reduces the need for insulin.
• Cancer: Improper oral hygiene may even be connected to leukemia or oral cancer.
• Pneumonia: Just like bacteria can enter your heart, it can also reach your lungs, causing pneumonia and related respiratory diseases. 

What conditions might affect your oral health?

Just like oral health can cause health conditions, certain health conditions can affect your oral health. Some medical conditions that can affect your dental health include:

• Diabetes: Diabetic people are more likely to contract gum disease. This is because people with diabetes are less resistant to infections. People with gum disease find it difficult to control their blood sugar levels, something they can fix with regular periodontal care.
• Alzheimer’s: Alzheimer’s disease can lead to bad oral health as the condition progresses. s.
• HIV/Aids: People with HIV or aids are likely to experience oral complications such as mucosal lesions.
• Osteoporosis: When your bones become brittle or weak, it may cause oral health problems such as tooth loss and jaw bone loss. The drugs taken by osteoporosis patients may even damage jawbones.

How can I protect my oral health?

To improve your oral health and enhance your overall health, you need to maintain proper oral care, keep track of symptoms of gum disease, and visit a dentist near you regularly. 

• Brush your teeth twice a day: Brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste is the most basic way of protecting your oral health. Maintaining this practice will allow your body’s defenses to function properly, preventing bacteria from entering your body.
• Maintain a healthy diet: The type of food you eat can affect your dental health. You should adopt a healthy, balanced diet. You should also avoid eating food with too much sugar in it.
• Floss every day: Flossing offers major dental benefits. Cleaning between your teeth can help remove bacteria-filled plaque and reduce inflammation. 
• Book regular dentist appointments and check-ups: When you visit your dentist regularly, they can keep track of your oral health and prevent gum disease or tooth decay before it does any serious harm. You should schedule dentist appointments at least twice a year. 
• Don’t use tobacco products: Tobacco can severely damage your lungs and gums. Avoid cigarettes and tobacco to maintain good oral and general health. 
• Replace your toothbrush every few months: To protect your dental health and hygiene, you should replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months.

Apart from maintaining good oral hygiene, you should also keep a lookout for symptoms of gum disease. If you notice any signs, find a dentist and take the required measures immediately.

Some signs of gum disease are:

• Bad breath
• Unpleasant taste 
• Mouth infections
• Inflammation or swelling of gums
• Loose teeth

To avoid health problems, you should maintain proper oral hygiene daily and be careful of symptoms of gum disease.

Final thoughts

Oral health can affect overall health since bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and other systems in the body. A lack of proper oral hygiene can result in an increased risk of diseases such as cardiovascular disease, endocarditis, and birth complications. 

To avoid chronic conditions due to a lack of oral hygiene, you should floss and brush your teeth daily, maintain a healthy diet, and stay on the lookout for symptoms of gum disease. 

Visit Opencare.com to avoid such health problems due to poor oral hygiene and reduce your chances of tooth decay or gum disease!

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