According to the American Dental Association, 21 million Americans have diabetes. Diabetes is a disease that affects the entire body. People with diabetes have a greater risk for health problems because they are unable to control their blood sugar levels. Uncontrolled blood sugar disables the white blood cells’ ability to fight infection. White blood cells are the body’s key defense to infection. Without them working at full capacity, you are at greater risk for infections of the mouth. People with diabetes who smoke are 10 times higher to develop the following conditions because smoking hinders the blood flow to the gums, which interferes with healing.
Conditions commonly associated with diabetes:
Dry Mouth – Low blood sugar decreases saliva flow and leads to dry mouth. The condition leads to sores, ulcers, and infections.
Gum Inflammation/Periodontal Disease – Aside from the other complications of diabetes, these people have a high risk for developing an advanced form of gum disease called periodontitis. Diabetes patients can reduce their risk of periodontitis by controlling their blood sugar levels. The mere presence of periodontitis will make your blood sugar harder to control as the disease causes infection in the body.
Diabetes impairs white blood cells, which thickens blood vessels, and ultimately slows down the flow of nutrients and other materials through the body. This causes infection and periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection, and since diabetics are less able to fight infection, they will experience a more severe periodontal disease than non diabetics.
Periodontitis causes your gums to pull away from your teeth. When this happens, pockets form between your teeth and gums. These pockets trap bacteria and germs, which eventually turn into puss. The more material that is in the crevices, the bigger they get. The only way to reverse periodontitis is oral surgery. If the condition is not treated, the teeth will decay to the point of requiring extraction and the remaining teeth will shift. In advanced cases of periodontitis, teeth have been known to simply fall out.
Slow or poor healing in the mouth – People with diabetes, in general, heal slowly. This is due to the impaired blood flow that uncontrolled blood sugars causes. Even a simple cavity can be a major event for a diabetic.
Thrush – Diabetics are prone to fungal infections. One such fungal infection is called Thrush. It develops in the mouth and tongue. Thrush thrives on the high sugar levels in the saliva when diabetes is uncontrolled. Thrush also produces a burning sensation in the mouth and the tongue.
The best way for diabetes patients to prevent these conditions is to control your blood sugar levels. There is a direct link between high glucose levels and oral disease. Develop healthy oral habits such as brushing regularly, flossing, and dental checkups twice per year. Don’t smoke. While smoking is not good for anyone, diabetes patients are several times as likely to develop smoking related conditions than non diabetic patients.
Dental care and diabetes –It is imperative that diabetics stick to a good oral healthcare routine because they are at a higher risk for the diseases mentioned above. The first habit is to never miss a checkup visit. When identified early, infections and conditions of the mouth can be treated before they become a serious problem. At each visit, update your dentist on your diabetes condition and blood sugar levels. Share your diabetes doctor’s contact information prior to any oral procedures. Brush with a soft bristled toothbrush, floss regularly and have your teeth cleaned twice per year.
Common questions and myths about diabetes:
Does diabetes increase the risk of cavities?
The answer is yes and no. People with diabetes that control their blood sugar levels and have good oral hygiene are not at greater risk for cavities. When diabetics do not control their blood sugar levels, bacteria that cause cavities increases and the result is more cavities. In addition, since diabetics typically eat more meals throughout the day to control their blood sugar, they need to brush their teeth more frequently. In contrast, diabetics refrain from eating high sugar foods, which would put them at a lower risk than a non-diabetic person who eats those foods. As long as the disease is under control, the risk is mitigated.
Are diabetics at higher risk for complications when undergoing oral surgery?
Diabetics are at greater risk when undergoing any surgical procedure because they heal slower and are at greater risk for infection. This risk is managed by administering antibiotics prior to the surgery and additional follow up visits after surgery to monitor the healing process. If the patient smokes, they must not smoke two weeks before and at least two weeks after oral surgery. Smoking increases the risk of infection in a non-diabetic patient. For diabetics, smoking increases the chance of infection ten times that of a non- diabetic person.
If you are diabetic, speak with your dentist about preventative measures that will ensure your oral health. Taking a proactive approach will save your teeth in the long run. The less damage you do to your teeth, the better off you will be down the road. You have only one set of teeth; treat them right!
Friday, January 11, 2013
Monday, December 10, 2012
Parents – How to make sure your kids are taking care of their braces
More and more teens are
getting braces than ever before. Braces are more than a means to a pretty smile.
They set the stage for healthy teeth and gums for years to come. The thought of
a healthy mouth makes it worth the cost of the braces. For the teen, however a
healthy mouth many years down the road has little value when compared to the
here and now. It is a parent’s responsibility to educate their teen on the
proper care and maintenance of braces. While the braces are on, they do require
special care. If the brackets are broken off due to negligence, you will be
charged a fee to replace them. In addition, if your teen does not implement a
teeth and gum cleaning regimen, then they will experience problems down the
road.
If you are a teen who has braces, you know by now how important it is to take care of your braces, teeth and gums. It may seem like a never-ending ritual that takes way too much time, but in reality, it is a simple routine that is easy to implement.
Stepped up Brushing and Flossing Regimen - Orthodontic brushing and flossing is by far the important factor in caring for your mouth. Where you once brushed and flossed three times per day, you now need to brush after every meal and before going to bed. The metal brackets and wires are easy places for bacteria and plaque to hide and fester. The food particles eventually turn into cavities. Your orthodontist may recommend a 4% fluoride toothpaste instead of the regular toothpaste found at the grocery store. The additional fluoride assists in strengthening your teeth and avoiding cavities.
Increased Flossing - Flossing is mandatory with teen braces. The only way to floss around the brackets is with floss threaders. They allow you to get the floss under the wires. Flossing needs to be done on a daily basis, no exceptions.
Foods to Avoid – Teen braces are strong, but not unbreakable. They are designed to break off under certain conditions to protect the teeth. Because of this, certain foods need to be avoided when wearing braces. You don’t want to eat anything too sticky, such as taffy, or too crunchy, such a CornNuts. If you eat apples or carrots, cut them up into bite size pieces. Finally, chewing hard candy and gum is not allowed. If you are a teen who smokes, you will need to stop. Firstly because of the obvious health benefits of doing so and, secondly, because smoking discolors the teeth, but not the place where the bracket is. When the braces are removed, you could see little white squares on your teeth where the brackets were and yellowing where the brackets were not.
A little care will go a long way in keeping your teeth healthy.
If you are a teen who has braces, you know by now how important it is to take care of your braces, teeth and gums. It may seem like a never-ending ritual that takes way too much time, but in reality, it is a simple routine that is easy to implement.
Stepped up Brushing and Flossing Regimen - Orthodontic brushing and flossing is by far the important factor in caring for your mouth. Where you once brushed and flossed three times per day, you now need to brush after every meal and before going to bed. The metal brackets and wires are easy places for bacteria and plaque to hide and fester. The food particles eventually turn into cavities. Your orthodontist may recommend a 4% fluoride toothpaste instead of the regular toothpaste found at the grocery store. The additional fluoride assists in strengthening your teeth and avoiding cavities.
Increased Flossing - Flossing is mandatory with teen braces. The only way to floss around the brackets is with floss threaders. They allow you to get the floss under the wires. Flossing needs to be done on a daily basis, no exceptions.
Foods to Avoid – Teen braces are strong, but not unbreakable. They are designed to break off under certain conditions to protect the teeth. Because of this, certain foods need to be avoided when wearing braces. You don’t want to eat anything too sticky, such as taffy, or too crunchy, such a CornNuts. If you eat apples or carrots, cut them up into bite size pieces. Finally, chewing hard candy and gum is not allowed. If you are a teen who smokes, you will need to stop. Firstly because of the obvious health benefits of doing so and, secondly, because smoking discolors the teeth, but not the place where the bracket is. When the braces are removed, you could see little white squares on your teeth where the brackets were and yellowing where the brackets were not.
A little care will go a long way in keeping your teeth healthy.
provided by the onlinepractice
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Smoking and Your Teeth and Gums
Mothers have a hard enough time keeping a child’s hands clean, let alone caring for the little one’s teeth! It is difficult to know when is the right time to begin brushing your child’s teeth or even schedule the first visit with the dentist. Many parents make the mistake of thinking that their child is too young to see a dentist. Some children do not see a dentist until they enter school.
The fact is that you can begin training your children to become comfortable with brushing their teeth as early as a few months old. Infants should have their gums cleaned once per day either with a clean washcloth on the end of your finger or by using a gum cleaner specially made for infants. The baby will welcome the cleaning as it massages their tender gums and alleviates some of the pain associated with teething.
Brushing your child’s teeth on a regular basis lays the foundation for a lifelong routine of oral care. Just as it takes time to train a child to use the potty or wash their hands before eating, it takes time to instill healthy oral hygiene.
Most people think that gum disease only affects the elderly or people who do not brush their teeth. This is not accurate. Teens are at the same risk for gum disease as adults. In addition, brushing and flossing alone does not guarantee that you will not get gum disease. It is estimated that more than 75% of people have some form of gum disease and out of those, 90% have no symptoms to alert them that they have a problem.
Simply stated, gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums. The infection is specifically located in the small space between the tooth and gums. The disease attacks the area of the gum that attaches to your teeth and causes the gum line to break down. As the tissue breaks down, a pocket is formed. The worse the disease is, the deeper the pocket becomes.
There are two stages of gum disease, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Gingivitis is a mild and reversible form of the disease. Gingivitis only affects the gums. Periodontitis is the advanced form of the disease that affects the gums, teeth, and bone. If left untreated, gum disease will cause the teeth to shift, and they may be need to be extracted. Serious cases of periodontital disease have been known to cause teeth to simply fall out!
A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease. Periodontists spend an additional three years studying the disease beyond what is required in dental school.
The American Academy of Periodontology educates the public on the dangers of tobacco use and its effect on the gums. Along with the American Medical Association and the American heart Association, the American Academy of Periodontology has been educating people for years about the risks associated with tobacco use. Those risks include cancer, heart and lung disease, and low birth weight babies. Despite the risks that we all are aware of, people continue to smoke. There is another very good reason to quit smoking and that is your oral health. Smoking increases your risk for periodontal disease.
The American Dental Association estimates that smoking and tobacco use may be responsible for more than 50% of the instances of periodontal disease. A study conducted by the American Academy of Periodontology found that smokers are more than 4 times at risk for periodontal disease than those who have never smoked. After quitting smoking for at least 10 years, former smoker’s chances of developing periodontal disease is about the same as those who have never smoked. Dentists agree that tobacco use is the single greatest preventable risk factor for gum disease. There has also been a direct link established between the number of cigarettes smoked per day and the chances of developing the disease, with those who smoke more than a pack per day at more than 7 times the risk for developing the disease.
To increase the public’s awareness of the pitfalls associated with smoking, the American Cancer Association holds the Great American Smoke out each year. The goal is for everyone to quit smoking for one full day, and encourage others to do so as well. The hope is that this may be the first step in people quitting forever.
Smokers are also at greater risk for developing a hard plaque on their teeth called calculus. The calculus can only be removed during a professional cleaning at your dentist’s office. If the calculus is not removed, it will cause your gums to pull away from your teeth. This leads to periodontal disease.
In addition to smoking, chewing tobacco and cigars also produce the same negative effects on your teeth. If you are a tobacco user, it is important that you schedule regular checkups with your dentist. If you can quit, then that is the best way to save your teeth.
Gum disease is treatable by either a general dentist or a periodontist. It is recommended that the least invasive method be chosen to treat periodontal disease. The treatment for gingivitis, the least severe form of gum disease, it a non-surgical treatment that includes scaling and cleaning of the teeth and root surfaces. This treatment cleans the tartar from the periodontal pockets. In most cases, this is the only treatment that is necessary, aside from ongoing maintenance to keep the disease from returning.
If the gingivitis becomes full-blown periodontitis, then surgery is usually the next step. This step is recommended when the tissue around the teeth is not healthy and needs to be surgically corrected. The surgery aims to reduce pockets and lengthen the crown.
New Treatment Options
Periodontists are now using lasers to treat gum disease as a less invasive treatment. The laser result in less bleeding, swelling and a quicker recovery time than the other treatments available. Lasers can also be adjusted to treat both mild and advanced gum disease as well. There is also a treatment method that uses mouth trays, similar to the ones used in home teeth whitening.
The fact is that you can begin training your children to become comfortable with brushing their teeth as early as a few months old. Infants should have their gums cleaned once per day either with a clean washcloth on the end of your finger or by using a gum cleaner specially made for infants. The baby will welcome the cleaning as it massages their tender gums and alleviates some of the pain associated with teething.
Brushing your child’s teeth on a regular basis lays the foundation for a lifelong routine of oral care. Just as it takes time to train a child to use the potty or wash their hands before eating, it takes time to instill healthy oral hygiene.
Most people think that gum disease only affects the elderly or people who do not brush their teeth. This is not accurate. Teens are at the same risk for gum disease as adults. In addition, brushing and flossing alone does not guarantee that you will not get gum disease. It is estimated that more than 75% of people have some form of gum disease and out of those, 90% have no symptoms to alert them that they have a problem.
Simply stated, gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums. The infection is specifically located in the small space between the tooth and gums. The disease attacks the area of the gum that attaches to your teeth and causes the gum line to break down. As the tissue breaks down, a pocket is formed. The worse the disease is, the deeper the pocket becomes.
There are two stages of gum disease, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Gingivitis is a mild and reversible form of the disease. Gingivitis only affects the gums. Periodontitis is the advanced form of the disease that affects the gums, teeth, and bone. If left untreated, gum disease will cause the teeth to shift, and they may be need to be extracted. Serious cases of periodontital disease have been known to cause teeth to simply fall out!
A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease. Periodontists spend an additional three years studying the disease beyond what is required in dental school.
The American Academy of Periodontology educates the public on the dangers of tobacco use and its effect on the gums. Along with the American Medical Association and the American heart Association, the American Academy of Periodontology has been educating people for years about the risks associated with tobacco use. Those risks include cancer, heart and lung disease, and low birth weight babies. Despite the risks that we all are aware of, people continue to smoke. There is another very good reason to quit smoking and that is your oral health. Smoking increases your risk for periodontal disease.
The American Dental Association estimates that smoking and tobacco use may be responsible for more than 50% of the instances of periodontal disease. A study conducted by the American Academy of Periodontology found that smokers are more than 4 times at risk for periodontal disease than those who have never smoked. After quitting smoking for at least 10 years, former smoker’s chances of developing periodontal disease is about the same as those who have never smoked. Dentists agree that tobacco use is the single greatest preventable risk factor for gum disease. There has also been a direct link established between the number of cigarettes smoked per day and the chances of developing the disease, with those who smoke more than a pack per day at more than 7 times the risk for developing the disease.
To increase the public’s awareness of the pitfalls associated with smoking, the American Cancer Association holds the Great American Smoke out each year. The goal is for everyone to quit smoking for one full day, and encourage others to do so as well. The hope is that this may be the first step in people quitting forever.
Smokers are also at greater risk for developing a hard plaque on their teeth called calculus. The calculus can only be removed during a professional cleaning at your dentist’s office. If the calculus is not removed, it will cause your gums to pull away from your teeth. This leads to periodontal disease.
In addition to smoking, chewing tobacco and cigars also produce the same negative effects on your teeth. If you are a tobacco user, it is important that you schedule regular checkups with your dentist. If you can quit, then that is the best way to save your teeth.
Gum disease is treatable by either a general dentist or a periodontist. It is recommended that the least invasive method be chosen to treat periodontal disease. The treatment for gingivitis, the least severe form of gum disease, it a non-surgical treatment that includes scaling and cleaning of the teeth and root surfaces. This treatment cleans the tartar from the periodontal pockets. In most cases, this is the only treatment that is necessary, aside from ongoing maintenance to keep the disease from returning.
If the gingivitis becomes full-blown periodontitis, then surgery is usually the next step. This step is recommended when the tissue around the teeth is not healthy and needs to be surgically corrected. The surgery aims to reduce pockets and lengthen the crown.
New Treatment Options
Periodontists are now using lasers to treat gum disease as a less invasive treatment. The laser result in less bleeding, swelling and a quicker recovery time than the other treatments available. Lasers can also be adjusted to treat both mild and advanced gum disease as well. There is also a treatment method that uses mouth trays, similar to the ones used in home teeth whitening.
provided by onlinepractice.com
Monday, October 1, 2012
Pull or Save That Tooth?
You
have a toothache, but you ignored it because you couldn’t find the money or the
time to get it fixed. Before you knew it, your cavity will require some serious
drilling. So now you are faced with the decision to pull or repair the tooth.
There are several pros and cons associated with each.Pulling the tooth
Pulling the tooth is the most affordable option. Extracting a tooth costs between $50-$200 to perform. Once it is pulled, problem gone. The problem with pulling the tooth is that it leaves a gap in your bite. Over time, the other teeth may shift and your bite will be affected. The alignment changes can have a substantial impact on your dental health. If the teeth shift substantially, it could also affect the look of your smile as well. Removing a single tooth has the ability to cause problems with chewing, speaking and overall jaw functioning. The gaps are also prone to trap food and grow bacteria that lead to tooth decay and gum disease. You can opt for a dental implant or other dental appliance down the road to replace the extracted tooth and keep the teeth from shifting.
Tooth extraction may be necessary if the tooth is gone beyond repair. If the tooth has an excessive amount of decay, then there may not be enough of it left to repair it after the decay is removed. If the tooth is cracked or broken, extraction may also be the best option.
Teeth with moderate to advanced gum disease usually have a compromised bone support and should be pulled and not repaired. As the gum disease worsens, the tooth will become loose so it makes sense to pull it. Teeth that are nonfunctional, such as wisdom teeth, are many times pulled and not repaired.
How is a tooth pulled?
The dentist numbs the area with a topical anesthetic and Novocaine. Laughing gas is also used to relax the patient. Using dental pliers, the dentist slowly pulls the tooth by rocking it back and forth. Once it is a little loose, he pulls a little harder and then POP! The tooth is out. After the tooth is extracted, the dentist will provide you with aftercare instructions. Usually, the first 24 hours after a tooth extraction you are instructed not to eat any solid food on the side of the mouth where the tooth was pulled. You are also required to gargle with salt water. If the gap begins to bleed, simply bite down on a piece of gauze to control the bleeding. Essentially, pulling a tooth is a routine procedure that usually requires only a day of downtime.
Whichever option you
choose, you will need to find a good dentist. While all dentists are trained how
to perform a repair and extraction, each dentist has their own methodology. Some
dentists are very sympathetic to patient anxiety and pain management, while
others prefer to perform them naturally whenever possible. Make an initial
appointment to ask questions about the procedure and to get to know the dentist
before having the procedure performed. If you are not comfortable with the
dentist, get a second opinion. The decision to pull or save your tooth is very
important and a dental professional can walk you through the process.
provided by onlinepractice.com
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Cosmetic Dentistry Overview
You only have one chance to make a first impression. Since your smile is the first thing people usually notice about you, it can play a large part in your first impression. Unfortunately, for some people, their smile does not make the best first impression. Brushing and flossing does not always guarantee a perfect smile. Genetics, lifestyle habits such as smoking, and accidents can dramatically change the appearance of your teeth for the worse. Cosmetic dentistry can change the appearance of your smile so that you can make a good first impression.
At one time, cosmetic dentistry was not catered towards the average person. The field of cosmetic dentistry has grown exponentially in recent years and is now attainable for many people. As a society, we have become focused on our appearance and cosmetic dentistry is like a face-lift for your mouth. Whereas people once accepted the appearance of their teeth, they now feel empowered to change their appearance. No more is a perfect smile reserved for the rich and famous. In recent years, the cost has come down significantly, and more people are seeking out cosmetic services. In reaction to the growing desire for cosmetic dentistry services, there has been an increase in the number of dental practices devoted specifically to cosmetic procedures. While specialists are great, any dentist is qualified to perform the cosmetic dental services on the market today.
Traditional dentistry is concerned with medically necessary services and focused on preventing tooth disease and decay. Cosmetic dentistry describes dental services that are not medically necessary to keep your teeth healthy. For example, drilling and filing a cavity is not considered cosmetic dentistry. If someone however wants their silver fillings replaced with white ones, then it is considered cosmetic dentistry because it is not a medically necessary service. Cosmetic dentistry improves the appearance of your teeth. People have cosmetic dentistry for varying reasons. Some are unhappy with their old metal fillings and want tooth colored ones. Others do not like their stained teeth or the gaps between them. Tooth whitening is the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures performed today.
Various types of cosmetic dentistry services
Composite Bonding - Bonding is typically used for chipped teeth. A material which looks and feels like enamel is used to fill the chip or crack. The composite material is shaped and then a high intensity light hardens the material. The result is a tooth that contains no evidence that a repair was performed.
Teeth whitening is the most common cosmetic dentistry service requested today. Teeth whitening removes stains that are a result of smoking, food, tea, and coffee. Stains resulting from poor oral hygiene are also treated with tooth whitening.
Veneers are thin, translucent overlays that are affixed to the surface of the tooth. The veneers are made of a composite or porcelain. Veneers cover up gaps between teeth and camouflage worn or damaged teeth.
Many patients opt for a full smile makeover. The makeover assesses your entire mouth and creates a plan to improve the overall appearance. Makeovers may involve veneers, teeth whitening and gum treatments.
At one time, cosmetic dentistry was not catered towards the average person. The field of cosmetic dentistry has grown exponentially in recent years and is now attainable for many people. As a society, we have become focused on our appearance and cosmetic dentistry is like a face-lift for your mouth. Whereas people once accepted the appearance of their teeth, they now feel empowered to change their appearance. No more is a perfect smile reserved for the rich and famous. In recent years, the cost has come down significantly, and more people are seeking out cosmetic services. In reaction to the growing desire for cosmetic dentistry services, there has been an increase in the number of dental practices devoted specifically to cosmetic procedures. While specialists are great, any dentist is qualified to perform the cosmetic dental services on the market today.
Traditional dentistry is concerned with medically necessary services and focused on preventing tooth disease and decay. Cosmetic dentistry describes dental services that are not medically necessary to keep your teeth healthy. For example, drilling and filing a cavity is not considered cosmetic dentistry. If someone however wants their silver fillings replaced with white ones, then it is considered cosmetic dentistry because it is not a medically necessary service. Cosmetic dentistry improves the appearance of your teeth. People have cosmetic dentistry for varying reasons. Some are unhappy with their old metal fillings and want tooth colored ones. Others do not like their stained teeth or the gaps between them. Tooth whitening is the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures performed today.
Various types of cosmetic dentistry services
Composite Bonding - Bonding is typically used for chipped teeth. A material which looks and feels like enamel is used to fill the chip or crack. The composite material is shaped and then a high intensity light hardens the material. The result is a tooth that contains no evidence that a repair was performed.
Teeth whitening is the most common cosmetic dentistry service requested today. Teeth whitening removes stains that are a result of smoking, food, tea, and coffee. Stains resulting from poor oral hygiene are also treated with tooth whitening.
Veneers are thin, translucent overlays that are affixed to the surface of the tooth. The veneers are made of a composite or porcelain. Veneers cover up gaps between teeth and camouflage worn or damaged teeth.
Many patients opt for a full smile makeover. The makeover assesses your entire mouth and creates a plan to improve the overall appearance. Makeovers may involve veneers, teeth whitening and gum treatments.
The cost of cosmetic dentistry varies greatly. Some dentists offer low cost dentistry, while others change a premium based on their experience and expertise in this area. The materials used in the treatment also affect the cost. For example, crowns can be made over silver or gold.
If you are considering cosmetic dentistry, it is important to research the various procedures that are available. For example, you can opt for veneers or crowns on your front teeth. You can do a one step tooth whitening or one that takes a couple of treatments. You should also consider the risks involved with any procedure you are considering. Do your research and develop a short list of questions to ask the dentist and discuss the pros and cons of cosmetic dentistry.
Finally, consider the cost. Can you afford the procedures that you are seeking? Will you pay cash or charge it on a credit card? Almost all dentists offer in house financing which is a better option than using a credit card. Weigh the costs against the long term benefits.
If you are unhappy with your smile, there is no need to live with it. Cosmetic dentistry has improved the mouths of thousands of patients. Take the first step by making an appointment with your dentist to discuss how you can have the smile of your dreams.
If you are considering cosmetic dentistry, it is important to research the various procedures that are available. For example, you can opt for veneers or crowns on your front teeth. You can do a one step tooth whitening or one that takes a couple of treatments. You should also consider the risks involved with any procedure you are considering. Do your research and develop a short list of questions to ask the dentist and discuss the pros and cons of cosmetic dentistry.
Finally, consider the cost. Can you afford the procedures that you are seeking? Will you pay cash or charge it on a credit card? Almost all dentists offer in house financing which is a better option than using a credit card. Weigh the costs against the long term benefits.
If you are unhappy with your smile, there is no need to live with it. Cosmetic dentistry has improved the mouths of thousands of patients. Take the first step by making an appointment with your dentist to discuss how you can have the smile of your dreams.
provided by onlinepractice.com
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is easier than you think
Many people assume that gum disease is reserved for people who do not brush and care for their teeth. This cannot be farther from the truth. Gum disease can be present in a seemingly healthy mouth, and takes millions of American by surprise each year.
While gum disease can occur at any age, by age 34, 6 out of 8 people develop gum disease in one form or another. Most people use pain as an indication of a tooth problem. Gum disease however, is virtually painless. If not treated, gum disease leads to complete tooth loss and irreversible gum and bone loss. Gum disease is characterized into two stages; gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gingivitis - Gingivitis occurs when the gums become inflamed. It is caused primarily by bacteria that develops and festers in the plaque on the teeth. The mouth contains more bacteria than any other part of the body. There are more bacteria in the human mouth than in a dog’s mouth. While it is the job of the saliva to break down bacteria, the enzymes cannot get rid of all of it. It is the bacteria that forms a film of plaque on the tooth surface.
Regular brushing and flossing removes plaque. Dentists recommend brushing 2-3 times per day and after every meal. Brushing regularly is easy if you keep a toothbrush and toothpaste with you. There are also new disposable tooth cleaning items on the market that make brushing on the go easy. Flossing is also made easy with disposable floss picks that are mint flavored as well!
Smoking cigarettes and chewing tobacco both contain nicotine and will lead to gum disease over time. When you smoke, calculus forms on your teeth that regular brushing and flossing will not remove. Your dentist is the only person that can remove calculus during a professional cleaning. If it is not removed, then it creates a gap between the tooth and the gum, where bacteria forms and gingivitis develops.
As easy as Gingivitis is to get, it is just as easy to remove. A simple treatment at your dentist’s office combined with regular brushing and flossing at home will eradicate Gingivitis completely.
Periodontitis - Periodontitis, simply stated, is the result of untreated gingivitis. While Gingivitis is gum inflammation, Periodontitis is a gum infection. Periodontitis cannot be controlled or eradicated with regular brushing. Periodontitis can only be cured by removing the calculus that has accumulated around the teeth. The cause of the infection is enough to make you feel sick to your stomach. The bacteria in the calculus produce waste matter. This biological waste creates toxins that deteriorate the gum line and form pockets around the teeth, where the infection develops. The infection is painless and continues to progress unnoticed. Periodontal treatment consists of scaling treatments that are performed over several visits. If left untreated, Periodontitis will progress to advanced stages, where the only treatment is a surgical procedure designed to remove the affected gum tissue, and uncover the tooth structure. The dentist will clean the tooth and remove any remaining plaque and calculus. If the disease has affected the bone, the area may require a bone graft and surgical placement of the remaining tissue.
Gum disease usually affects more than one tooth, and sometimes all of them. The scary part about gum disease is that seemingly healthy teeth can be riddled with gum disease. X-rays and a thorough exam will quickly uncover gum disease at even the earliest stages.
Once your gum disease is removed, regular brushing and flossing will keep it from returning. You dentist may require a few follow up visits to ensure that the gums have return to their normal position and the gaps are gone.
The best way to avoid gum disease and to maintain healthy teeth and gums is to see your dentist regularly. The American Dental Association recommends regular checkups twice per year to keep your teeth healthy. The regular checkups allow the dentist to recognize tooth decay, gum disease and other oral issues before they become full-blown cavities or periodontal disease.
While gum disease can occur at any age, by age 34, 6 out of 8 people develop gum disease in one form or another. Most people use pain as an indication of a tooth problem. Gum disease however, is virtually painless. If not treated, gum disease leads to complete tooth loss and irreversible gum and bone loss. Gum disease is characterized into two stages; gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gingivitis - Gingivitis occurs when the gums become inflamed. It is caused primarily by bacteria that develops and festers in the plaque on the teeth. The mouth contains more bacteria than any other part of the body. There are more bacteria in the human mouth than in a dog’s mouth. While it is the job of the saliva to break down bacteria, the enzymes cannot get rid of all of it. It is the bacteria that forms a film of plaque on the tooth surface.
Regular brushing and flossing removes plaque. Dentists recommend brushing 2-3 times per day and after every meal. Brushing regularly is easy if you keep a toothbrush and toothpaste with you. There are also new disposable tooth cleaning items on the market that make brushing on the go easy. Flossing is also made easy with disposable floss picks that are mint flavored as well!
Smoking cigarettes and chewing tobacco both contain nicotine and will lead to gum disease over time. When you smoke, calculus forms on your teeth that regular brushing and flossing will not remove. Your dentist is the only person that can remove calculus during a professional cleaning. If it is not removed, then it creates a gap between the tooth and the gum, where bacteria forms and gingivitis develops.
As easy as Gingivitis is to get, it is just as easy to remove. A simple treatment at your dentist’s office combined with regular brushing and flossing at home will eradicate Gingivitis completely.
Periodontitis - Periodontitis, simply stated, is the result of untreated gingivitis. While Gingivitis is gum inflammation, Periodontitis is a gum infection. Periodontitis cannot be controlled or eradicated with regular brushing. Periodontitis can only be cured by removing the calculus that has accumulated around the teeth. The cause of the infection is enough to make you feel sick to your stomach. The bacteria in the calculus produce waste matter. This biological waste creates toxins that deteriorate the gum line and form pockets around the teeth, where the infection develops. The infection is painless and continues to progress unnoticed. Periodontal treatment consists of scaling treatments that are performed over several visits. If left untreated, Periodontitis will progress to advanced stages, where the only treatment is a surgical procedure designed to remove the affected gum tissue, and uncover the tooth structure. The dentist will clean the tooth and remove any remaining plaque and calculus. If the disease has affected the bone, the area may require a bone graft and surgical placement of the remaining tissue.
Gum disease usually affects more than one tooth, and sometimes all of them. The scary part about gum disease is that seemingly healthy teeth can be riddled with gum disease. X-rays and a thorough exam will quickly uncover gum disease at even the earliest stages.
Once your gum disease is removed, regular brushing and flossing will keep it from returning. You dentist may require a few follow up visits to ensure that the gums have return to their normal position and the gaps are gone.
The best way to avoid gum disease and to maintain healthy teeth and gums is to see your dentist regularly. The American Dental Association recommends regular checkups twice per year to keep your teeth healthy. The regular checkups allow the dentist to recognize tooth decay, gum disease and other oral issues before they become full-blown cavities or periodontal disease.
Provided by: The Online Practice
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Tooth Replacement Options
At one time in their lives, most people will be in need of a tooth replacement. You may be considering a tooth replacement option due to dental decay, an accident that has broken the tooth, or simply to change the appearance of your smile. Tooth replacement has come a long way in recent years. The technology and materials used offer the patient a variety of options to consider. The three options for tooth replacement are a bridge, a removable appliance, and dental implants. Each option has benefits and considerations.
Bridges – At one time, bridges were the best option for restoring missing teeth. A bridge is created by filing down the two teeth on either side of the missing tooth, and then fabricating a bridge, which consists of three crowns that act as a bridge across the gap. The bridge is made by using a dental impression of the teeth before filing them down. The advantage of bridges are that they are permanent and durable. The feel like your own teeth and completely hide the missing tooth. In most cases, you cannot tell the difference between a bridge and natural teeth. The downside to this method is that it requires that two healthy teeth be filed down to accommodate the bridge. As dentists are in the business of saving teeth, dental implants are preferred by dentists if possible.
The advantages of a bridge are that it is fixed, stable, and feels like your own teeth. In most cases, the bridge looks just like you never had a tooth missing. The disadvantage is that you have to file down the two teeth on either side of the missing tooth. These teeth in most cases need to be perfectly sound with nothing wrong.
Removable Appliance – Removable appliances come in a variety of options. A ‘dental flipper’ is simply a piece of durable plastic attached to a false tooth. A Nesbit is a more substantial, durable acrylic over metal partial denture. Removable appliances are a more cost effective option than a bridge or dental implant, but not as cost effective as not replacing the tooth altogether. Removable appliances can replace one or more teeth. They are not as natural looking as a bridge or dental implant. Removable appliances are not as sturdy as a bridge or implant, and may be uncomfortable. Removable appliances are recommended when the teeth on either side of the missing tooth are not healthy.
Dental Implant – Dental professionals have hailed dental implants as the best treatment option when replacing missing teeth. The procedure is considered both cosmetic dentistry and prosthetic dentistry. As the procedure has gained acceptance within the dental industry, it is covered by most dental insurance plans as a necessity and not an optional treatment. A dental implant is essentially an artificial root that is affixed to the jaw. The tooth is affixed to the implant. Structurally, implants are the closest thing to growing a new tooth.
Dental implants are the most durable and effective option for replacing teeth. The greatest disadvantages to dental implants are the cost and time involved with the procedure. Out of the three options considered, dental implants are the most expensive, with the costs varying depending on where you live and the experience of the dentist. The procedure requires that you work with one dentist who performs the surgery of affixing the root to the jawbone and another who will make the implant and affix it to the root. There is also a healing period required, which lasts about two months between the time the root is established and the new tooth is being affixed. Since they are permanent and the most durable option available, implants are a great investment, if you can afford it.
Not replacing the tooth- There are many people who opt not to replace the missing tooth. This may be the most affordable option, but it causes the most long-term damage to your mouth. Teeth provide natural spacers in your mouth. When a tooth is missing, the other teeth will eventually shift. The long-term effects can cause your bite to substantially change. If enough teeth move, you may need to correct your bite later on with dentures or braces. Finally, the greatest drawback to not replacing the missing teeth is that the jawbone will eventually shrink and deteriorate in the spot where the tooth is missing. Upon an exam and x-rays, your dentist can determine the best options for your situation. Not everyone is a good candidate for some procedures and only a dental professional can make the determination.
Bridges – At one time, bridges were the best option for restoring missing teeth. A bridge is created by filing down the two teeth on either side of the missing tooth, and then fabricating a bridge, which consists of three crowns that act as a bridge across the gap. The bridge is made by using a dental impression of the teeth before filing them down. The advantage of bridges are that they are permanent and durable. The feel like your own teeth and completely hide the missing tooth. In most cases, you cannot tell the difference between a bridge and natural teeth. The downside to this method is that it requires that two healthy teeth be filed down to accommodate the bridge. As dentists are in the business of saving teeth, dental implants are preferred by dentists if possible.
The advantages of a bridge are that it is fixed, stable, and feels like your own teeth. In most cases, the bridge looks just like you never had a tooth missing. The disadvantage is that you have to file down the two teeth on either side of the missing tooth. These teeth in most cases need to be perfectly sound with nothing wrong.
Removable Appliance – Removable appliances come in a variety of options. A ‘dental flipper’ is simply a piece of durable plastic attached to a false tooth. A Nesbit is a more substantial, durable acrylic over metal partial denture. Removable appliances are a more cost effective option than a bridge or dental implant, but not as cost effective as not replacing the tooth altogether. Removable appliances can replace one or more teeth. They are not as natural looking as a bridge or dental implant. Removable appliances are not as sturdy as a bridge or implant, and may be uncomfortable. Removable appliances are recommended when the teeth on either side of the missing tooth are not healthy.
Dental Implant – Dental professionals have hailed dental implants as the best treatment option when replacing missing teeth. The procedure is considered both cosmetic dentistry and prosthetic dentistry. As the procedure has gained acceptance within the dental industry, it is covered by most dental insurance plans as a necessity and not an optional treatment. A dental implant is essentially an artificial root that is affixed to the jaw. The tooth is affixed to the implant. Structurally, implants are the closest thing to growing a new tooth.
Dental implants are the most durable and effective option for replacing teeth. The greatest disadvantages to dental implants are the cost and time involved with the procedure. Out of the three options considered, dental implants are the most expensive, with the costs varying depending on where you live and the experience of the dentist. The procedure requires that you work with one dentist who performs the surgery of affixing the root to the jawbone and another who will make the implant and affix it to the root. There is also a healing period required, which lasts about two months between the time the root is established and the new tooth is being affixed. Since they are permanent and the most durable option available, implants are a great investment, if you can afford it.
Not replacing the tooth- There are many people who opt not to replace the missing tooth. This may be the most affordable option, but it causes the most long-term damage to your mouth. Teeth provide natural spacers in your mouth. When a tooth is missing, the other teeth will eventually shift. The long-term effects can cause your bite to substantially change. If enough teeth move, you may need to correct your bite later on with dentures or braces. Finally, the greatest drawback to not replacing the missing teeth is that the jawbone will eventually shrink and deteriorate in the spot where the tooth is missing. Upon an exam and x-rays, your dentist can determine the best options for your situation. Not everyone is a good candidate for some procedures and only a dental professional can make the determination.
provided by: onlinepractice.com
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