Question: Are there any herbal supplements that I can use for my mouth?

Answer: As herbal medications and supplements are becoming more popular, some dentists have incorporated them into their practice (including me). You must understand that herbs have potent effects on the body. Herbal supplements contain essential extracts of a plant source, in a concentrated manner placed most often in a liquid, capsule or tablet. Most prescription drugs are the synthetic-chemical forms of what was originally derived from a plant. If you are taking any herbal and vitamin supplements, make sure to let your dentist know. The following are some herbs and their importance in oral care:

St. John's Wort (hypericum perforatum) is a mild antidepressant and sedative. This herb may intensify the effects of local anesthetic for dental treatment and cause problems. However, it has sedative properties and may help to decrease anxiety of a dental appointment.

Lavender extract, placed on a handkerchief and inhaled before a dental treatment, will help with anxiety.

Valerian has effects similar to lavender and acts as a sedative and muscle relaxant.

Aloe Vera contains antibacterial and antiviral properties and can help shrink cold sores and fever blisters.

Arnica may be used for those suffering with TMJ (jaw disorder). It comes in creams and ointments that can be applied to sore jaws.

Oil of calendula has shown in studies to have anti-inflammatory properties and is helpful in wound and tissue repair, such as mouth sores, or after an extraction of a tooth.

Oil of clove is used for inflammation in the mouth or a toothache.

Before taking any herb or supplement, seek the advice of a licensed alternative doctor. One site to get referrals is www.bastyr.edu/contact/ referral.asp. Remember to let your dentist know if you are taking any herbs.

Question: I've heard that mouthwashes that contain alcohol are not good for you. Can you tell me why? I thought alcohol kills bacteria.

Answer: Mouth rinses that contain alcohol levels ranging between 18 to 26 percent may cause problems. Their constant use can result in dry mouth, accompanied by a burning sensation. If the mouthwash also contains other strong ingredients, use of it may lead to ulcers, root sensitivity, stains and changes in taste sensation. Some washes may contain sodium fluoride, which may lead to fluoride toxicity if used regularly over long periods of time.

Your dentist may prescribe an antimicrobial rinse for gum disease. You will be instructed on how to use it and length of treatment.

Question: A friend of mine said his dentist doesn't use a drill, but uses a machine that gives off dust to drill with. Have you heard of this?

Answer: Air abrasion (microabrasion) uses a powerful air stream of tiny, fine aluminum oxide particles to blast the decay away from the tooth surface. It works effectively for bonding procedures of placing white fillings or for use with children who are afraid of the needle or the sound of the dental drill. It's painless and in most cases does not require anesthetic.

It cannot be used for all treatments, however. Crowns and bridge preparations still require the dental drill.

Question: I've heard a tooth can be saved if it's knocked out, but I can't remember what I'm supposed to do.

Can you give us the main points on how to save a knocked out tooth?

Answer: If the tooth is placed back in place within 30 minutes, there is a good chance it can be saved.

When it comes out, first call your dentist. Do not touch the root of the tooth, but hold it by the crown. Touching the root can damage important cells that are necessary for re-attachment.

Rinse the tooth very gently, but never scrub. Place the tooth in the mouth for storage while on your way to the dentist. If this is not possible, place in milk and take it to your dentist.

Question: My mother-in-law is 70 years old. She has a cracked filling on a bottom tooth. She wears dentures on her top teeth. Is it better to pull the tooth or to re-fill it?

Answer: No matter how old a person is, it's always better to save a tooth than to pull it, if possible. Unfortunately, the elderly are often neglected in receiving dental treatment in lieu of pulling a tooth instead.

Take your mother-in-law to your dentist and discuss the choices available for the best treatment of this tooth.

Question: Several of my teeth are only sensitive to cold and not all the time. Does this mean I have a cavity? Why do I feel it in several teeth and not just one?

Answer: Intermittent sensitivity to cold could be due to several causes. Sometimes if gums have receded, the root surfaces of the teeth become exposed. These areas can cause sensitivity to cold. Clenching or grinding the teeth may place abnormal amounts of pressure on the teeth, causing sensitivity. Small, hairline fractures may cause cold sensitivity.

Another reason could be old fillings that may need to be replaced. Referred pain from one tooth could feel like it is coming from another tooth or area. Last, but not least, a cavity could be present in one or more of your teeth.

Check with your dentist and don't wait until the sensitivity advances to pain. It's important to determine the cause and receive the appropriate treatment.

From Healthy.net