Bacteria constantly colonize the interface surfaces of our body all the time. Due to constant shedding of cells, large masses of bacteria are prevented from accumulating on these surfaces. In the mouth, teeth provide a hard, non-shedding surface where bacterial mass can build up. Dental plaque, which is a sticky, soft, colorless material adhering to the teeth, consists of bacterial cells (60-70% the volume of the plaque), salivary polymers, food residuals and bacterial by-products. Plaque is a naturally-constructed biofilm, in which bacteria may reach a thickness of 300-500 cells on the surfaces of the teeth. These accumulations subject the teeth and gum tissues to high concentrations of bacterial metabolites, which result in dental disease. It has been estimated that as many as 400 distinct bacterial species may be found in plaque.

To grind the teeth, clenching of the teeth, associated with forceful jaw movements,resulting in rubbing, gritting, or grinding together of the teeth, usually during sleep is referred to as bruxism. This being a subconscious behavior, bruxers are not aware of the habit until their sleeping partner complains of the annoying noise. Bruxism is not a dangerous disorder. However, it can cause permanent damage to the teeth and uncomfortable jaw pain, ear pain and headaches.

What is the cause of bruxism?

Some researchers say it occurs due to incorrect bite (occlusion), and some believe it is a central nervous system disorder. It is also thought to be transmitted genetically in few individuals. Stress is a huge factor when it comes to bruxing. In fact the mouth can show stress before any other area of the body. The more stress, the more bruxing and the harder the bruxing. Certain personality types like those with nervous tension, anger, aggressive, hurried tendencies are affected the most.

GUM BLEEDING WHAT DOES IT MEAN?

Bleeding gums can be a sign that you are at risk for, or already have gum disease. The gums are firm tissues attached to underlying bone of the jaw, which hold the teeth. Gingivitis and periodontitis are two types of commonly found gum diseases. Gingivitis is infection, inflammation, or swelling of the gums. It is usually caused by a buildup of plaque, an invisible sticky layer of germs that forms naturally on the teeth and gums. Plaque contains bacteria, which produce toxins that irritate and damage the gums.

Early gingivitis can be painless and may not be noticed. Symptoms can include red, soft, or swollen gum, which bleed while brushing. Gingivitis caused by inadequate oral hygiene is reversible with thorough professional cleaning and good home care techniques. 

Have you had short sharp pain triggered by cold or hot drinks, sweet, sour or acidic foods or while brushing or even during scaling? Approximately, one out of every four adults suffers from at least one sensitive tooth; hence tooth sensitivity is identified as a very common problem. The perception of sensitivity varies from person to person due to differences in pain tolerance, environmental factors and emotional state. Essentially, tooth becomes hypersensitive due to loss of enamel or root cover called cementum leading to exposure of the second layer called dentin. Dentin has tubules, which contain little arms of the nerve cells situated in the center of the tooth. So, when thermal (cold or hot drink), osmotic (sweet or drying), or tactile (touch) stimuli come in contact with open and exposed tubules causing pressure change in fluid inside, the nerve gets stimulated, triggering short, sharp pain.

For hypersensitive patients, the cause is to be evaluated before prescribing treatment. When there is presence of exposed dentinal tubules, poor oral hygiene with abundance of acidic bacterial byproducts exaggerates the response. In the presence of decay or erosion due to acidic diet (fruit juice, soda, bulimia) continued sensitivity occurs. Treatment is thus focused on eliminating factors associated with continued dentinal tubule exposure.