DEAR Dental Clinic

17/05/2026

Scientists have discovered that Porphyromonas gingivalis — a major bacterium involved in gum disease — has been detected in the brains of some patients with Alzheimer’s disease.

Researchers believe toxins released by these bacteria may contribute to inflammation and protein changes linked to neurodegeneration. The study does not prove that gum disease causes Alzheimer’s, but it adds to growing evidence that oral health and brain health may be closely connected.

Inflamed or bleeding gums may allow harmful bacteria and inflammatory molecules to enter the bloodstream and potentially affect other organs over time.

Healthy gums are about more than protecting teeth. They may also play a role in long-term systemic health.

📚 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aau3333
Dominy SS, et al. Porphyromonas gingivalis in Alzheimer's disease brains: Evidence for disease causation and treatment with small-molecule inhibitors. Sci Adv. 2019

15/05/2026

Many people fear dental X-rays because of “radiation” — but modern dental X-rays actually use extremely low radiation levels.

In fact, a full-mouth series of modern digital dental X-rays may expose you to less radiation than a short airplane flight. Modern digital systems also use up to 80% less radiation compared to older film-based X-rays, while helping dentists detect problems much earlier and more accurately.

Dentists also follow strict safety guidelines called the ALARA principle, which stands for “As Low As Reasonably Achievable.” This means X-rays are only taken when truly necessary and with the lowest radiation dose possible. Additional protective measures may include lead aprons, thyroid collars, digital sensors, and very fast exposure times.

For pregnant patients, dental X-rays are generally considered safe when needed and properly shielded, but it’s always important to let your dentist know if you are pregnant or think you may be.

The small amount of radiation from dental X-rays is usually far outweighed by the benefit of finding infections and disease early — before they become painful, dangerous, or expensive to treat.

11/05/2026

The modified Bass technique of tooth brushing is most commonly recommended by dental professionals because it cleans both the teeth and the gumline — the area where plaque, cavities, and early gum disease usually begin.

To use this technique correctly:

• Hold a soft-bristled toothbrush at a 45-degree angle toward the gums
• Let the bristles touch both the teeth and the edge of the gums
• Use gentle, short back-and-forth vibrating motions without hard scrubbing
• Clean only 2–3 teeth at a time
• After vibrating, sweep the toothbrush away from the gums toward the edge of the teeth
• Repeat this method on all outer and inner tooth surfaces

The goal of the Modified Bass technique is to clean slightly under the gumline while removing plaque from the tooth surface without damaging the gums or enamel.

The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brushing the tongue is also recommended to help reduce bacteria and keep breath fresher.

10/05/2026

📢 Clinic Announcement

Sorry, we are closed on May 11–14, 2026.
Clinic operations will resume on Friday, May 15, 2026.

For appointments, please message us.

Thank you for your understanding.
God bless!

08/05/2026

The first 24 hours after a tooth extraction are critical for proper healing.

Your body forms a protective blood clot inside the socket. If this clot gets disturbed, healing can become painful and delayed.

For the first 24 hours:
• Bite on gauze as advised
• Don’t rinse or spit forcefully
• Avoid smoking and to***co
• Don’t use a straw
• Eat soft foods only
• Apply ice packs for swelling
• Take medicines exactly as prescribed

After 24 hours:
• Start gentle warm salt water rinses 3–4 times daily
This helps keep the area clean and supports healing.

Mild bleeding and swelling are normal initially.

But severe pain, bad smell, pus, fever, or continuous bleeding should never be ignored.

Good aftercare can make recovery faster, smoother, and far less painful.

Save this post — it may help someone heal properly after a tooth extraction or wisdom tooth removal.

07/05/2026

It even helps repair early damage to teeth by a process called remineralization

A large-scale, decades-long study has found no link between fluoride in drinking water and lower IQ or impaired cognitive function.

Researchers followed more than 10,000 individuals from childhood into adulthood, comparing those exposed to fluoridated water with those who were not. The result:
no measurable difference in intelligence or brain performance.

This matters because many concerns about fluoride come from studies conducted in regions with significantly higher fluoride levels than those used in public water systems.

This research specifically evaluated real-world fluoride levels used in the United States, making the findings highly relevant for public health policy.

At the same time, the benefits remain clear:
Fluoridated water reduces tooth decay by around 25%, making it one of the most effective and accessible preventive health measures—especially for communities with limited access to dental care.

Despite ongoing debates, current scientific evidence continues to support water fluoridation as safe, effective, and beneficial for oral health.

📄 Source: Benadjaoud, Y., Kekatos, M., & Cobern, J. (2026). Fluoride in drinking water has no negative effect on IQ or cognitive function, study says. ABC News.

07/05/2026

Nasal breathing naturally helps the tongue rest against the roof of the mouth, supporting healthy jaw growth and properly developed dental arches during childhood. However, when mouth breathing becomes a long-term habit, research has linked it to narrower dental arches, crowded teeth, bite issues, and noticeable changes in facial growth patterns in some children.
Children who frequently breathe through their mouths may also experience dry mouth, inflamed gums, bad breath, and a higher risk of cavities due to reduced saliva protection. Dental experts emphasize that early recognition of breathing habits is important because proper breathing during growth can significantly influence oral health, jaw development, and overall dental function later in life.

Credit: Pediatric Dental and Orthodontic Research Studies

07/05/2026

Tooth decay does not happen all at once, it progresses through stages from enamel all the way to the pulp. Catching it at stage one or two might mean a simple filling, but waiting could mean something much more serious. (CC: Unknown)

06/05/2026

Spot the difference

Yes, mahal talaga ang sisingilin sayo sa isang Dental Clinic, kung nagpa-dentist ka lang dahil malala na ang case mo, o late na para sa mas mura sanang procedure na makakapag-restore ng function ng ngipin mo.

Root Canal Treatment - MAHAL
Bunot sa upod/basag na ngipin - MAHAL
Complex Procedures - MAHAL

Alam mo kung anong mura? PREVENTION.

Prevention through commitment sa sarili mo to brush and floss your teeth EFFECTIVELY. Hindi yung kapag naanghangan ka sa toothpaste, eh hihinto ka na sa brushing. 😅

Linising mabuti ang bibig at tanggalin ang mga pagkain na nakasingit sa mga ngipin, dahil dyan nag-sstart yung bacterial growth at pagkabulok ng ngipin. ❌

Make sure din na makapagpa-professional cleaning ka sa dentista every 6 months. Dito mo malalaman kung may hidden cavities ka o any other dental concerns na hindi mo napapansin.

Hindi palaging bunot ang solusyon. Tooth decay can be prevented. Hindi po normal ang bulok na ngipin, kaya habang maliit pa ang sira, ipatingin mo na sa dentista para mabigyan ng agarang solusyon.

04/05/2026