Category Archives: Oral Health

Reasons for Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth extraction is one of the most common surgeries, but have you ever wondered what are the reasons for wisdom teeth?

You’ve probably seen many funny videos of loopy people coming out of anesthesia after having their wisdom teeth removed. Why do they exist just to be removed?

About Wisdom Teeth

Opposite the small, sharp teeth at the front of your mouth that help tear into food and take bites, the larger flat molars at the back of the mouth are there to grind food into smaller bits before swallowing. Young children get their first molars around the age of 6. After those fall out, a new set emerges typically around age 12. Sometime between the ages of 17 and 21, most people get their third set of molars. These teeth are the last to develop, and since they come in the latest in life when you are the wisest, they won the name “wisdom teeth.”

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Exist?

In order to understand the reasons for wisdom teeth, we need to take a look at human history and evolution. Long ago, the human diet was very different. Most people ate raw, hard foods like roots, meat, nuts, and leaves. For these foods, a lot of chewing was required before swallowing, and this is where the wisdom teeth shine. In addition to helping early humans chew and swallow their food appropriately, anthropologists believe that human jaws were larger at that time and were therefore better able to fit the extra set of molars comfortably.

As humans changed and began to soften their diet by cooking, cutting, and crushing their food with utensils, the extra set of molars became less important. Thus today, people have evolved to the point of no longer needing wisdom teeth Some adults will have no wisdom teeth at all, and many will have only one, two, or three instead of a full set of four.

Problems With Wisdom Teeth

It’s possible for wisdom teeth to grow in and create no problems. However, it’s more likely that one of the following, or other, issues may occur:

  • Overcrowding in mouth
  • Jaw pain
  • Crooked teeth
  • Impacted wisdom teeth causing cysts and even potentially tumors
  • Wisdom teeth growing in sideways

Most of the problems that stem from wisdom teeth come from the fact that they don’t fit in the mouth. Due to these and many other concerns over wisdom teeth, it’s important to have your wisdom teeth monitored closely by an oral health professional before, during, and after they erupt.

Oral & Facial Surgery of Utah is Here to Help

Since the reasons for wisdom teeth no longer apply in our day, you should consult with an oral surgeon if you have any concerns over wisdom teeth. The board-certified oral surgeons at Oral & Facial Surgery of Utah have experience ranging from basic wisdom teeth removal to more complicated removal of impacted wisdom teeth and more. We have offices in Cottonwood Heights, Tooele, and South Jordan. Schedule your free consultation today.

Can TMJ Go Away on its Own?

Do you suffer from jaw pain or difficulty opening and closing your mouth? Temporomandibular joint disorder or TMJ, might be to blame.

Many patients with TMJ ask the same question: can my TMJ go away on its own?

Causes and Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

The causes of TMJ are varied, and it can be difficult to determine what the specific cause is in any given patient. They include misalignment of the teeth or jaw, jaw or tooth injury, teeth grinding and clenching, arthritis, poor posture, stress, and even excessive gum chewing. TMJ disorder is more common in women than in men

Symptoms of TMJ are jaw pain and tenderness, aching in or around the ear, difficulty chewing or pain while chewing, facial pain and/or the jaw being locked, making it difficult to open or close the mouth. TMJ can also cause jaw clicking, but if there’s no pain associated with the clicking then there’s typically no need to see a doctor for jaw clicking alone.

Temporary Jaw Pain vs. More Serious TMJ

When dealing with jaw pain, it can be helpful to identify the severity of the situation. It’s worth noting that most cases of TMJ are only temporary and do not get worse. If your jaw pain comes and goes throughout the day, can be relieved by over-the-counter pain medication or doesn’t bother you for extended periods, you are likely dealing with a less serious form of temporary TMJ. The good news is that this type of jaw pain can typically be easily managed on your own using these and other self-care practices.

  • Relaxation and stress reduction techniques to reduce teeth clenching
  • Applying ice packs to the affected area
  • Eating soft foods
  • Avoiding extreme jaw movements
  • Gentle jaw stretching
  • Over-the-counter pain medication

Unfortunately, for those with more serious TMJ, these self-care techniques are similar to using a bandaid to treat a deep wound. While the pain may be eased temporarily, the underlying causes and the TMJ itself still remain. Because of the poor likelihood that TMJ will go away on its own, it’s important that you speak to an oral health professional if you suspect you might have TMJ.

Treatment Options

In addition to the treatment options mentioned above, a good place to start when treating TMJ is physical therapy. Do your research and find a therapist with experience in treating TMJ. Acupuncture has also been proven to be helpful in many cases. If further treatment is needed, a dentist might recommend a mouth guard, especially if you grind your teeth.

Oral & Facial Surgery of Utah Can Help

If jaw pain persists despite at-home treatment, it might be time to seek professional advice. TMJ will not likely go away on it’s own, but the board-certified oral surgeons at Oral & Facial Surgery of Utah are experienced in various surgical treatments for TMJ disorders. Schedule a free consultation today! We have offices in Cottonwood Heights, Tooele, and South Jordan.

What is the Main Cause of Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a fairly common sleeping disorder, but have you ever wondered what the main cause of sleep apnea is?

There are different types of sleep apnea, and various causes, symptoms, and treatments that go with each.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a condition that causes abnormal breathing during sleep. Long pauses in breathing during sleep can significantly impact the body’s oxygen levels and lead to serious health problems. Because of the potential implications of unchecked sleep apnea, it is important to be aware of the types of sleep apnea, as well as its causes and symptoms.

Types of Sleep Apnea

There are three types of sleep apnea:

  • Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) – the most common form of sleep apnea. This occurs when the airway becomes physically blocked during sleep.
  • Central Sleep Apnea (CSA) – occurs when the brain does not send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
  • Mixed Sleep Apnea (MSA) – an extremely rare form of sleep apnea. This occurs when a person has both OSA and CSA.

Causes and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

The main cause of sleep apnea is obesity. Excess weight on a person’s body impacts the soft tissue in the mouth and throat, which can cause the airway to be blocked during sleep and lead to OSA. Additionally, sleep apnea is more common in men than in women. Although obesity is the leading cause, there are other risk factors. These include asthma, back sleeping, diabetes, chronic nasal congestion, smoking, a narrowed airway, and a family history of sleep apnea.

The causes of central sleep apnea are quite different and typically have nothing to do with weight. CSA is commonly linked to other medical problems like stroke, infection of the brain, and heart failure. Only about 0.9% of people suffer from CSA.

Although the causes of OSA and CSA overlap very little, the symptoms of the various types of sleep apnea are similar. Loud snoring, morning time fatigue, and interrupted nighttime breathing are all common symptoms. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, or suspect you might have sleep apnea, talk to your doctor about treatment right away.

Sleep Apnea Treatment

A common treatment for sleep apnea is a breathing machine that causes continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). Another effective treatment is lifestyle change including weight loss, sleeping on your side, and reducing the use of sedatives. There are also surgical options for treating the root causes of sleep apnea by opening the airway and removing the excess tissue from the mouth.

Oral & Facial Surgery of Utah is Here For You

If you suffer from sleep apnea and would like to discuss treatment options with a doctor, the board-certified surgeons at Oral & Facial Surgery of Utah can help. They offer surgeries that can help treat the main cause of sleep apnea and get you back to sleeping soundly in no time. We have offices in Cottonwood Heights, Tooele, and South Jordan. Schedule your free consultation today.

How Can I Avoid Fillings?

No one wants to feel that sharp pain tearing through your mouth when you take a swig of ice water, so what can you do to avoid fillings for cavities? According to the CDC, over 91% of adults have cavities, so it’s a problem most of us would do well to prevent—or at least prepare for in the short term. While some people assign the blame to their genetics or our increasingly sugar-filled diets, they can take steps to prevent cavities and avoid painful and expensive fillings.

7 Ways to Avoid Fillings

Through careful planning and awareness, you can improve your dental hygiene and reduce your risk of cavities. Try implementing the following seven techniques for avoiding fillings.

  1. Assess Your Dental Predisposition.

Unfortunately, your genetics do play a role in your dental health. Some individuals are predisposed to decay because of plaque buildup, soft teeth, and other factors. The best way to determine your predisposition for cavities is to survey family members to get a comprehensive exam from a trusted dentist.

  1. Brush Right.

Most people brush their teeth regularly, but maybe not as carefully as they should. Meticulous brushing helps to eliminate plaque buildup in hard-to-see and hard-to-reach areas that are at risk for decay. Brushing at least twice a day for 2-3 minutes, reaching every side of each tooth can prevent fillings.

  1. Drink Better.

Ditch your sugary sodas, coffees, wine, and other beverages that introduce buildup on your teeth. If you can’t quite kick your habit, try switching to a straw, which can help bypass your teeth. Rinse your mouth with water after drinking a sugary beverage, and try to increase your intake of fluoride-enriched water.

  1. Floss Daily.

Flossing is a habit that is easier than you think. It can seem like a time-consuming hassle, but it has enormous benefits for your teeth by decreasing plaque and decay and lowering your risk for bad breath. Try flossing picks or a new kind of dental floss, and build up the habit to prevent cavities.

  1. Quit Smoking.

You already know that smoking is bad for your lungs and puts you at considerable risk for cancers, but many people overlook the oral risks associated with smoking. Smoking can cause rapid decay, gum disease, deterioration, and tooth loss. Protect your mouth by quitting your nicotine habit right away.

  1. Add Mouthwash.

A fluoride-enriched mouthwash can not only freshen your breath, but it can also strengthen your teeth against plaque and cavities. A quick swish of mouthwash once a day has been proven to decrease tooth decay and help avoid filings in the future.

  1. See Your Dentist.

The best way to combat tooth decay and prevent fillings is actually to see your dentist more regularly. Dentists can catch bad brushing habits or genetic predisposition to cavities and help you take action to avoid fillings. Set regular appointments for cleanings and exams, and take your dentist’s advice for your hygiene.

The Perfect Smile

At Oral & Facial Surgery of Utah, we believe in creating your perfect smile. If you need help with tooth decay, oral surgery, or any other dental or facial issues, we are ready to make you smile.

Is There a Surgery for Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a disruption that can have adverse consequences on your health. Generally, this condition causes a person’s breathing to stop while they sleep periodically. When you’re unable to breathe, your body will wake up mid-sleep, causing you to have poor sleep. 

If you suspect you have this condition, you should treat it before it deteriorates your health. Find out more about the different treatment options below.

Surgical Treatment for Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea increases your risk of developing high blood pressure, metabolic problems, and other health issues if left untreated. Fortunately, there are several surgical options available to treat this condition, depending on the severity of your sleep apnea and overall health. 

Read on to learn about these surgical options to determine which is best for you. 

Genioglossus Advancement Surgery

Genioglossus advancement surgery involves your surgeon tightening the tendons in front of your tongue. However, surgeons rarely perform this procedure alone, and they typically do it alongside other ones. This surgery can prevent your tongue from rolling back and interfering with your breathing. 

Maxillomandibular Advancement Surgery

Maxillomandibular advancement surgery, also known as corrective jaw surgery, can be an effective solution for sleep apnea. During this procedure, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon will reposition the upper and lower jawbones to relieve airway obstruction. Furthermore, this procedure suspends the attached pharyngeal airway muscles while simultaneously increasing pharyngeal soft tissue tendon.  

Some professionals believe this surgery should be reserved for craniofacial dysmorphism; however, patients with regular osseous structures are usually good candidates and have similar successful outcomes. 

Lingual Tonsillectomy Surgery

In a lingual tonsillectomy procedure, your surgeon will remove your tonsils and tonsillar tissue near your tongue’s back. You may need to undergo this procedure to open up the lower part of your throat for more natural breathing.  

Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty Surgery

Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty surgery is one of the most common procedures for treating sleep apnea, but it may not be effective for everyone. This surgery involves your surgeon removing extra tissue from the top of your throat and back of your mouth. Your surgeon will only recommend this procedure if you’re ineligible to use a CPAP machine. Additionally, this procedure is most effective in treating snoring problems.  

Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulator Surgery

Hypoglossal nerve stimulator surgery involves attaching an electrode to the primary nerve that controls your tongue, called the hypoglossal nerve. Your surgeon will connect the electrode to a device that’s similar to a pacemaker. When you can’t breathe during your sleep, this machine will stimulate your tongue’s muscles, preventing them from blocking your airway. If you have a higher body mass index, we recommend avoiding this surgery because you may not achieve successful results. 

Oral & Facial Surgery of Utah Can Help

It’s no secret that sleep apnea can deteriorate your health and overall quality of life. At Oral & Facial Surgery of Utah, our board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons specialize in corrective jaw surgery, which can relieve airway obstruction. 

Our team can determine if you’re a good candidate for this procedure. You can count on us to provide you with the superior service you deserve from an oral surgeon. We have offices in South Jordan, Cottonwood Heights, and Tooele. Schedule your free consultation today. 

Is There a Surgery for Sleep Apnea?

Tips to Recover from Oral Surgery

Oral surgery is any procedure performed on the teeth, gums, or jaw. After surgery, there’s a recovery period that varies in length, depending on the work you had done to your mouth. It’s crucial to stick to your surgeon’s post-operative instructions to have the smoothest recovery possible.

Stay tuned to learn more about oral surgery recovery times. 

Information on Oral Surgery Recovery

If you recently scheduled an oral surgery appointment, you may be feeling anxious about all the unknowns involved, including questions about healing time. Generally, you can get your procedure out of the way in just a few hours, and your surgeon will send you home with a list of post-operative care instructions. Even though there isn’t much you can do to speed up your recovery time, we recommend you prepare for your aftercare in advance.

Here are three tips to make sure your oral surgery recovery goes well. 

1. Ice the Area

You may already know this, but using an icepack on a swollen area helps reduce pain. However, when it comes to applying ice around your mouth, you need to be careful with the amount you use and the length of time you apply it on. For instance, if you apply ice on your jaw for too long, it may become more challenging to open your mouth because it might go numb. 

Fortunately, your oral surgeon will provide you with icing instructions specific to your procedure. They might recommend applying a small icepack to the side of your face where the surgery was performed for 20-minute intervals (20 minutes on and 20 minutes off). 

2. Take Your Medicine

If you have minor oral surgery, your surgeon might prescribe you a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medicine to ease your post-operative pain. Generally, oral surgeons are careful not to prescribe opioids as the first line of pain medications for oral surgery. Many professionals are apprehensive because these drugs carry a risk of dependence and other undesirable effects, such as sedation, respiratory depression, and constipation.

However, if you’re going through a more invasive procedure, such as getting multiple teeth extracted, your oral surgeon may prescribe opioids to treat breakthrough pain. 

For maximum relief and to avoid taking opioids, we recommend an around-the-clock pain regimen rather than treating pain only when it surfaces. Taking your prescribed medication every few hours instead of only when you’re swelling will keep you on track to recover in no time. 

3. Maintain Your Oral Hygiene

Some people make the mistake of neglecting their oral health after surgery because they feel too tired or in pain to upkeep it; however, your oral surgeon will advise you to brush gently with warm water (not toothpaste). You will also need to rinse with a saline or saltwater solution. 

Schedule Your Surgery with Oral & Facial Surgery of Utah

If your dentist believes you need oral surgery, you can count on the board-certified oral surgeons from Oral & Facial Surgery of Utah. We specialize in tooth extraction, dental implant insertion, bone grafting, corrective jaw surgery, and more. Our promise is a transparent and professional experience with your best interests at heart. 

We have offices in South Jordan, Cottonwood Heights, and Tooele. Schedule your free consultation today. 

Tips to Recover from Oral Surgery

Bottle Rot: Don’t Put Your Baby Down With Formula or Milk

Tooth decay in babies and toddlers is known as baby bottle tooth decay. It occurs when the sugars found in sweet liquids, such as milk, formula, and fruit juice, cling to an infant’s teeth overnight. If left untreated, it can lead to a painful infection.

Discover why it’s important to fight baby bottle tooth decay.

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay Is Detrimental to Your Baby’s Future

Some moms underestimate the importance of their baby’s teeth because they’re temporary. However, baby teeth are essential for speaking, chewing, and smiling. Unfortunately, if your little one develops baby bottle tooth decay, they may form poor eating habits, speech impairment, and damaged adult teeth.

In today’s blog, we will discuss baby bottle tooth decay in depth.

The Importance of Healthy Baby Teeth

It’s essential to keep your baby’s teeth clean and healthy for the following reasons:

  • They make chewing easier for your baby, which helps them learn to eat on their own.
  • They help form the shape of your child’s face
  • They make it easier for your baby to learn how to talk
  • They’re placeholders for permanent adult teeth

Tooth decay in babies can result in:

  • Severe mouth pain
  • Costly dental care
  • Damage to the permanent teeth underneath the gums
  • Frequent hospital visits
  • Infections that can impact your baby’s overall health

Causes of Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

If you give your baby formula before bedtime, the sugar will stay on their teeth, and oral bacteria can turn it into acid. Furthermore, the acid can eat away at your baby’s enamel, (the outer coating of the teeth) which might lead to tooth decay.
To inspect your baby’s teeth for decay, have a look at their upper front teeth and molars, as these are the first areas to become infected.

What’s The Best Way to Clean My Baby’s Mouth?

Even before your baby’s teeth grow, it’s best to clean their mouth with a gauze pad or soft cloth. Do the following:

  • Number One: Depending on your baby’s age, you should use one of the following methods to clean their teeth and gums: Hold your baby on your lap and support their head with your hand so you can inspect their mouth. Alternately, you can sit your baby on their highchair, stand behind them, and brush their teeth. Sit on your couch with your baby’s head on your lap.
  • Number Two: Once your baby is situated, place a clean gauze pad or soft cloth over your finger. Dampen it with water, but make sure it’s not soaking wet. Wipe your baby’s teeth and gums gently.
  • Number Three: When your baby’s teeth begin to grow, you can switch to a small, soft toothbrush. Brush all surfaces of their teeth, and don’t forget their gums. Use a mild toothpaste with a small amount of fluoride.

Contact Oral & Facial Surgery of Utah

If you neglect your baby’s oral health, they may need to get their teeth surgically removed to prevent gum problems. The board-certified oral surgeons at Oral & Facial Surgery of Utah are here to help with all your oral health needs, and we can answer your questions. Schedule your free consultation today.

Baby Oral Care

Do Wisdom Teeth Always Hurt When They Come In?

From babyhood to adulthood, teeth grow in different stages: first incisors, then canines, premolars, and molars. Just when you thought you were done growing, your wisdom teeth come in at the back of your mouth.

If your wisdom teeth recently came in, you may be panicking. Don’t worry; we’re here to help you with your wisdom teeth journey.

Understanding Wisdom Teeth

Most people develop four wisdom teeth, each emerging from both sides of the upper and lower jaw. They usually appear in people between the ages of 17-25, according to the American Dental Association. Many people are scared of wisdom teeth growth because they don’t want to experience pain; however, it varies from person-to-person. Some people don’t experience discomfort at all!

Discover the reasons why some individuals experience pain when their wisdom teeth grow.

Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth Growth

If you discover new molars growing in the rear part of your mouth, this is an indication your wisdom teeth are coming in. Unfortunately, several common wisdom teeth eruption symptoms indicate a problem, including:

  • Bleeding gums
  • Swollen jaw
  • Bad breath
  • Experiencing an unpleasant taste
  • Difficulty opening your mouth (lockjaw)

These symptoms can arise from improperly cleaned wisdom teeth, and they may be the first signs of infection due to impaction.

What Is Wisdom Teeth Impaction?

Wisdom teeth can become impacted when they don’t have enough room to emerge naturally. This can lead to several problems, such as:

  • Damage to neighboring teeth: If the wisdom tooth pushes against the second molar, it may damage it and result in infection. Additionally, this pressure can cause other problems such as overcrowding in the mouth, which may require orthodontic treatment.
  • Cysts: Because wisdom teeth develop in a sac within the jawbone, it can fill with fluid, leading to cyst formation. Oral cysts can result in jawbone, teeth, and nerve damage. Worst of all, a benign tumor may develop, and an oral surgeon will have to extract tissues and bones from your mouth.
  • Decay: Wisdom teeth are difficult to clean, so food and bacteria can get trapped between your gum and a partially erupted tooth. As a result, they’re at higher risk of tooth decay.
  • Gum disease: Tooth decay can lead to a painful, inflammatory gum condition called pericoronitis. If left untreated, it can result in bleeding gums, painful chewing, and tooth loss.

What Can I Do to Treat Wisdom Teeth Pain?

The best cure for impacted molars is wisdom tooth extraction surgery. Before the procedure, your oral surgeon will give you a local anesthetic to numb the area, so you shouldn’t be afraid of experiencing discomfort. If you’re having all of your wisdom teeth taken out at once, your surgeon will opt for a general anesthetic, which will put you to sleep.

Oral & Facial Surgery of Utah Can Help

If your dentist has determined you must undergo wisdom teeth extraction, you won’t have to push your plans aside because recovery only takes a few days. Our board-certified oral surgeons at Oral & Facial Surgery of Utah can provide you with high-quality care so that you can get back to living your life. Schedule your free consultation today.

Do Wisdom Teeth Always Hurt When They Come In

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, and they can boost your self-esteem. In addition to their cosmetic value, dental implants make it easier for you to eat and speak because they’re firmly secured to your jawbone.

Find out if dental implants are permanent.

The Lifespan of a Dental Implant

Dental implants are a permanent tooth replacement option, and they may last approximately 25 years with adequate care. Nevertheless, they outlast other tooth replacement alternatives, such as dentures and dental bridges.

Discover how you can increase the lifespan of your dental implants.

What Are Dental Implants Made Of?

Understanding what dental implants are made of can help you better take care of them so that they can last for several decades. They consist of:

  • A titanium post that’s placed inside the gum and jawbone to replace the missing tooth root
  • A prosthetic crown, which replaces the affected tooth’s missing crown
  • An abutment, which is attached to the implant’s tip and holds the prosthetic crown in place

Dental implants are made of either titanium or zirconia, which are both regarded as two of the most durable and most hard-wearing materials on earth. Additionally, they’re corrosion-resistant and have antimicrobial properties, making them ideal for implantation.

Moreover, the prosthetic crown is made of porcelain, a special type of ceramic that’s more durable than a natural tooth.

Can I Increase the Lifespan of My Dental Implants?

One of the advantages to dental implants is you can make them last for decades; some people have made theirs last a lifetime. Here are a few tips you can follow to prolong their lifespan:

  • Brush and floss your teeth each day, and visit your dentist every six months, so your implants last over 25 years.
  • Avoid biting down on hard items, such as pencils and pen tips, and refrain from opening bottles with your teeth.
  • Schedule routine check-ups with your dentist so they can check if you’ve gone through osseointegration, which is when your dental implants become a permanent part of your jaw.
  • Smoke or drink alcohol in moderation or cut off these habits completely.

Can My Dental Implants Experience Complications?

Although dental implant complications are rare, they can still occur. Even though they have a high success rate, you should consult with your oral surgeon if the following occurs:

  • Infection around your implant
  • Loose implant
  • Tissue or nerve damage causing tingling in your gums or neighboring teeth
  • Sinus problems due to your implants touching your sinus cavities; this usually occurs if yours are placed in your upper jaw Peri-implantitis, which is when your implant’s surrounding gum and bone become inflamed due to a bacterial infection.

It’s essential to follow routine maintenance at home and follow-up with your oral surgeon to avoid these issues.

Oral & Facial Surgery of Utah Can Help

If you experience problems with your dental implants, consult with an oral surgeon who can examine your surrounding tissues for calcified deposits that may be impacting them. The board-certified oral surgeons at Oral & Facial Surgery of Utah can help you find relief. Schedule your consultation today.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last

Why Using Hydrogen Peroxide as a Rinse Isn’t the Best

Many people use hydrogen peroxide as a mouthwash because it’s a powerful disinfectant that keeps canker sores and mouth wounds from becoming infected, which promotes faster healing.

Learn more about the properties of hydrogen peroxide.

What Is Hydrogen Peroxide?

Hydrogen peroxide is a mild antiseptic that’s used on the skin to prevent the infection of minor cuts, burns, and scrapes. In recent years, many people have used it as a mouth rinse to remove mucus or to alleviate mouth irritation due to sores and gingivitis. However, if you use it every day, it can impact your overall health.

View more to find out if using hydrogen peroxide as a mouthwash is right for you.

Are There Benefits to Using Hydrogen Peroxide as a Mouthwash?

If you have a sore throat, using hydrogen peroxide as a mouthwash can help you experience relief. The antibacterial properties in it can fight off bacterial infections that typically result in sore throats.

Moreover, when the mucus in your mouth comes into contact with hydrogen peroxide, it creates a foam. The foam makes the mucus less sticky, which makes it easier to drain. Rinsing with hydrogen peroxide loosens your throat’s mucus, so you likely won’t experience discomfort.

Additionally, using hydrogen peroxide in conjunction with regular brushing and flossing reduces gum inflammation. Another benefit of this product is its teeth whitening properties. If you’re going to a special event, you can use it to achieve an instant Hollywood smile.

To get the most out of your rinse, swish it around the front of your mouth while you’re gargling, so it coats your front teeth and gums.

The Negative Effects of Using Hydrogen Peroxide as a Rinse

Although hydrogen peroxide can be beneficial for certain situations, you should only use it a few times a month. Rinsing with undiluted hydrogen peroxide can burn your organs and cause internal bleeding. You may also vomit a foamy substance, but this is a good sign because it means the peroxide is flushing out of your system.

The first time you gargle with hydrogen peroxide, you might notice redness around your gums and irritation inside your mouth. These symptoms should go away within a few hours, but if you throw up and feel weak, you should call your doctor immediately.

Is There a Safer Alternative to Hydrogen Peroxide?

People turn to hydrogen peroxide as their choice of mouthwash because they may find store-bought mouthwash too strong. Traditional mouthwash contains alcohol, which can irritate the mucous membranes in your mouth.

Now that you’re aware of the potential dangers of hydrogen peroxide, you may be looking for an alternative. Consider switching to saltwater rinses, which have proven to:

  • Soothe mouth sores and bleeding gums
  • Freshen breath
  • Loosen and remove food particles
  • Heal a sore throat

Best of all, they’re dentist approved. Simply stir eight ounces of warm water with one teaspoon of salt, and you’re good to go!

Contact Oral & Facial Surgery of Utah

If you’ve extensively used hydrogen peroxide as a mouthwash in the past, then you may be experiencing oral health problems as a result. If you need oral surgery, you can count on the board-certified oral surgeons at Oral & Facial Surgery of Utah to provide you with quality care. We specialize in wisdom tooth removal, impacted canine treatment, and several other oral procedures. Schedule your consultation today.

Why Using Hydrogen Peroxide as a Rinse Isn’t the Best