Category: Health

The internet is full of both useful information and misinformation. People often read certain things about dental diseases online and assume them to be true.  In this guide, we are debunking common myths about dental care. 

• At-home oral hygiene habits are enough

While brushing and flossing regularly can help keep your teeth in good health, you still need to see your dentist in Chelsea NYC. Routine exams and dental cleanings are a critical part of your oral care and can be useful for preventing & detecting many diseases affecting teeth and gums. For instance, you may not have noticed a hole in a tooth, but your dentist may find it through an X-ray. 

• Just avoiding sugar can help prevent cavities

Sugary foods are responsible for cavities to an extent, but that doesn’t mean you have to avoid sugar altogether. Yes, you should aim for a balanced and healthy diet, but binging on your favorite foods once in a while is not a bad thing. What you should focus on is getting rid of plaque, which is a stick film that is a mix of food particles and bacteria. Plaque can impact the enamel and cause cavities. Ensure you brush, floss, and rinse after every meal. 

• Mild gum bleeding is not concerning

Bleeding gums indicate periodontal disease. If you have been noticing blood while brushing and flossing, check with your dentist immediately. Procedures like scaling and root planing can help reverse mild to moderate gum disease. These treatments are better than more invasive procedures, such as gum grafting, used for advanced periodontal disease. 

• If a cavity doesn’t hurt, treatment is not required

Again, this is a myth. If your dentist spots a cavity and recommends a filling, consider getting that done. If you let the cavity remain, decay will eventually progress and impact the inner chamber of the tooth, causing an infection. When the pulp is affected, you will need root canal therapy, which is more complex than getting a filling. 

• Dental cleanings are painful

A lot of people don’t want to go for a dental cleaning because of the assumed pain and discomfort. If you have healthy teeth and see your dentist regularly, a routine cleaning session will not hurt. Your dental hygienist will do the cleaning using a scaler, and the procedure doesn’t last for more than 45 minutes. 

• Extracting an infected tooth is necessary

If your dentist finds that decay has caused an infection inside the affected tooth, they will usually check whether there is a possibility to save the tooth. The standard choice is root canal therapy, which involves removing the decay, the pulp, and blood vessels. The dentist will also clean the tooth and seal it with packing materials. Extracting a tooth can only lead to more problems, such as the shifting of other teeth. 

• Cosmetic dentistry is for the rich

While many cosmetic dental treatments can cost a lot, there is something for every patient. If you are concerned about the aesthetics of your smile, we recommend that you discuss the options with your dentist. Treatments like teeth whitening and bonding don’t cost as much, and many clinics even have flexible plans for payments. 

Key takeaway

Don’t delay your periodic dental appointments, which should be scheduled every six months. Some patients need more frequent cleanings and exams than others, and only your dentist can suggest the right schedule. Just because you don’t have a toothache doesn’t mean you don’t have an underlying dental concern. 

If you are new in the city, you can sort between dental clinics in Chelsea based on online feedback from other patients. You can also rely on Google reviews to learn more about local dentists. 

There is a two-way relationship between animals and humans. Pets get care and shelter, and humans, as their owners, get to relieve their stress and make their lives a lot more peaceful. We can say that both mutually benefit each other. 

Pets do require some care from their owner, and if you, as an owner, cannot do that and cannot afford their food. Then it is better that you do not have a pet. You will only be giving them more distress than a safe and healthy environment. 

In San Diego, people recognize the importance of providing a healthy environment for pets. In fact, if you cannot keep your pet in line and if they end up causing harm to somebody else, you can get yourself into trouble. Thus, their care, training, and proper food are critical. 

It is even proven that there is a reduced risk of getting a heart attack and many other physical and mental health issues. However, make sure you take your pet to a San Diego veterinarian if they experience any distress or any other issue. 

What are the benefits of having a pet as your companion?

Pets provide many benefits to their owners. Let us look at some of them:

• Those who have cats and dogs might be aware of how stress-free they feel when their pets are around. 
• Blood pressure also remains in control.
• Children do not get allergies, either.
• Autistic kids can also benefit from having a pet.
• Social interaction is also improved, especially when you take your pet out for a walk. 
• They are known to provide people with a longer life as their vitals remain in shape.
• Veterans who have post-traumatic stress disorder can also benefit and cope better. 

What are the health benefits of having a pet?

• Various brain chemicals are released:

For those who are dog owners, there is good news for them. There are different health benefits to having a dog or some other pet. Certain neurochemicals are released that alleviate the mood of the person:

1. Dopamine that gives a person energy. 
2. Oxytocin is released, which makes a person happy.
3. Endorphins provide a suitable type of high. 

These neurochemicals become high dog owners, and their level of stress is also reduced.

• The health of your Heart is also improved:

Those who own a dog have a sixty-five percent less chance of dying from a heart attack. It is in comparison to those who do not own a dog. 

Furthermore, if you have a cat, then there is an increased chance that you will remain alive at least for a year after going through a heart attack. Those who do not own pets have a higher risk of dying.

• Mental health is improved, too:

Dogs are known to reduce stress levels by lowering the level of cortisol, which is another neurochemical. This is why more people own a pet, and there are. Also, emotional support animals, too. There are also interventions that include animals, which can help people who have depression or post-traumatic stress disorder. 

To give an example, let’s say that there is a veteran who had an improved life after having a service dog with him. There have also been many different studies that show people also feel more secure when they have their pets around. For those who are battling long-term mental issues, pets have provided them with a lot of comfort.

• Living longer with a pet:

Those who are in their old age, need a companion or somebody they can talk to, who can be around them. At such an age, having a pet can be very beneficial emotionally and mentally.

Keep your pet healthy!

While there are many many benefits that pets provide to their owners, it is also their responsibility of them to keep their pets safe and in good condition. 

Make sure that you provide them with the right food. Take them for veterinary checkups in a timely manner, and if you notice any signs of possible health issues, then definitely take them to a veterinarian. 

Periodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum-related diseases and conditions. Unfortunately, many people globally neglect to take appropriate care of their gums. This then leads to various concerns surrounding gum health – from periodontal disease to tooth loss.

However, all is not lost! As per an expert dentist’s Kokomo dental office – most concerns surrounding periodontics can be resolved via a simple visit to the office! An expert dentist will have the necessary equipment and skill sets to help manage any gum-related concern one may have.

Here’s what it largely involves…

1. Ridge Modification: Restoring Jawbone Contours

Ridge modification is a procedure designed to correct irregularities in the jawbone caused by tooth loss, trauma, or congenital defects. These irregularities can hinder the placement of dental implants or affect the appearance of the gums. An expert dentist in Kokomo will reshape the ridge by adding bone or soft tissue grafts to restore natural contours. 

2. Soft Tissue Grafting: Strengthening Gums

Soft tissue grafting is essential for patients experiencing gum recession, where the gums pull back from the teeth, exposing their roots. This condition can lead to sensitivity, decay, and an increased risk of tooth loss. During soft tissue grafting, a dentist in Kokomo will transfer tissue from another part of the mouth or use donor tissue to cover exposed roots. 

3. Crown Lengthening: Improving Tooth Proportions

Crown lengthening is a procedure that removes excess gum tissue to expose more of the tooth’s surface. This treatment is often performed for aesthetic reasons or to prepare a tooth for restorative procedures like crowns or veneers. In Kokomo, skilled dentists use crown lengthening to correct a “gummy” smile or to access decayed or fractured areas below the gumline. 

4. Gum Grafting: Enhancing Gum Health and Appearance

Gum grafting is another effective solution for addressing gum recession. This procedure is similar to soft tissue grafting but focuses specifically on increasing the thickness of the gums and covering exposed roots. Expert dentists in Kokomo perform gum grafting to reduce the risk of further recession, protect tooth roots, and improve the aesthetic harmony of the smile. 

5. Dealing With Bruxism: Protecting Teeth From Grinding

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a common condition that can lead to significant dental issues if left untreated. Chronic grinding can wear down teeth, cause jaw pain, and contribute to gum problems. Dentists in Kokomo address bruxism by creating custom night guards or splints to protect teeth during sleep. Additionally, they may recommend stress management techniques or adjustments to the bite to alleviate symptoms.

6. Periodontal Scaling: Deep Cleaning for Healthy Gums

Periodontal scaling, also known as deep cleaning, is a non-surgical treatment for gum disease. This procedure removes plaque and tartar buildup from below the gumline, helping to prevent infection and inflammation. An expert dentist in Kokomo uses advanced tools to ensure thorough cleaning and promote gum healing. Periodontal scaling is often combined with root planing, which smooths the tooth roots to prevent bacteria from reattaching. 

Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile, and neglecting gum care can lead to severe oral health issues. From improving aesthetics to addressing functional concerns, periodontics offers solutions for a variety of problems. Expert dentists use advanced techniques to address concerns like ridge modification, soft tissue grafting, crown lengthening, gum grafting, bruxism, and periodontal scaling.

Have you noticed any pain or swelling in your gums? It might just be time to get a dentist appointment! Reach out to an expert dentist near you today to get the best periodontics treatment possible!

Have any of your teeth falling out? It may surprise you to learn that this is not rare. Between the ages of 40 and 64, almost 60% of Americans have lost at least one tooth. Approximately one out of ten Americans over 65 have lost all of their teeth. Missing teeth can lead to jawbone loss, interfere with eating and speech, and have a detrimental effect on self-esteem.

For patients in Salida, finding out how to replace lost teeth and restore a natural, healthy smile is what counts most. Dentures and dental implants in Salida, CO are two popular choices. However, how can you decide which is best for you? 

Which one is perfect for you: Dentures or Dental Implants?

Both are reasonable choices for replacing lost teeth, and each has benefits and drawbacks. Price, personal choice, the condition of your jaw and existing teeth, and other factors will all play a role in choosing the most suitable option for you.

Some of the roles of implants and dentures are similar. They

• Allow you to chew your meal.
• Support the muscles in your face.
• Improve speaking

What are dental implants?

Artificial teeth have been used by humans since 700 BCE. Human or animal teeth or ivory-carved artificial teeth were options for substitute teeth in the past. These replacement teeth would be positioned above the gum line, much like dentures. On the other hand, the jawbone contains real teeth.

Ceramic and titanium are the two main types of dental implants available today. A titanium or zirconia post is placed into the jaw as a component of a modern dental implant. Over the duration of three to six months, this post substitutes the missing tooth’s root and “osseointegrates” with the jawbone. A crown is affixed to the foundation or abutment (the connecting component for titanium implants) after osseointegration is completed, and voila! Your tooth has been replaced.

Are You a Potential Implant Candidate?

A particular kind of surgery is implant dentistry. You may not be able to get dental implants if you have a medical problem that prevents you from having other procedures.

Additional factors that disqualify include:

• Smoking
• Grinding or clenching your teeth
• Significant loss of jaw bone.
• There must be adequate bone for the implant to fuse; however, a bone graft is an option.
• You are taking medication to treat your osteoporosis.

What are partial dentures?

Like complete dentures, partial dentures are detachable prostheses intended to replace lost teeth. However, rather than replacing an entire mouth, partial dentures might substitute one or more lost teeth.

Replacement teeth are attached to a gum-colored plastic foundation in removable partial dentures. The partial denture is attached to the neighboring teeth by a metal framework that is affixed to the plastic base. 

Are you a good candidate for dentures?

Dentures are whole or partial sets of removable tooth replacements. They are especially popular for individuals who have multiple missing teeth rather than just one.

Over the years, dentures have improved considerably. Northern Italian Etruscans replaced lost teeth circa 700 BC with either human or animal teeth. Nowadays, dentures look more natural-looking than ever due to advances in technology.

In addition to being less costly than dental implants, dentures allow you to take them out any time you like. Anyone with weak or unhealthy jaws could profit immensely from them.

Then, what is the best way to replace a missing tooth?

Patients and implant experts are increasingly choosing dental implants. And with good reason!

With the right repair, they can serve you for life, even if their regular cost is more than that of partial dentures. Furthermore, the jawbone support that implants provide may help stop further tooth loss!

You never need to be worried about your dental implants sliding out when you laugh or talk in public. In addition, they look more natural and are more comfortable than dentures. Dental implants are your best bet if you want to feel as though you did not lose a tooth in the first place! It is always beneficial to consult your dentist when considering your options. 

Taking care of our dental health is essential, similar to our overall health. Are you procrastinating too much while visiting a dentist in Farragut? Thousands of reasons not to see a dentist might be switching to a new dental plan, or you’re fretting about the dental health checkup cost. But visiting a dentist might not be intimidating! Whatever deters you from going to the clinic, getting into the habit of daily visits to the dentist is crucial since preventive dental care is related to your overall health and smile. If you’re still wondering why daily dental checkups are vital for oral health, below are the top 5 benefits to consider! 

Preventive Dentistry: Overview

Preventive dental care is a mix of regular care at home, such as flossing and brushing your teeth, eating wholesome food, and getting daily dental checkups. Preventive dentistry consists of teeth cleaning by a dental professional or an authorized healthcare professional who works with the dentist and performs dental inspection by a dentist.  

Benefits of Daily Dental Checkups For Top-Notch Oral Health

• Cosmetic and Aesthetic Benefits 

Daily dental checkups beyond oral and overall health provide aesthetic and cosmetic benefits. Dental cleanings play a significant role in maintaining a whiter and brighter smile. They aid in eliminating surface stains and discoloration, recuperating the natural brilliance of your teeth. Additionally, treating common concerns like foul breath during the tests helps you feel more confident and breathe better, which improves your social connections.

• Save Money in the Long Run

Your dental professional in Farragut can help you find and fix issues before they need pricier dental work and challenging processes in the future. Moreover, most dental insurance organizations will pay for two checkups or cleanings yearly, so you won’t need to pay out of pocket. 

• Oral Health Benefits 

Daily visits to your nearby dental clinic in Farragut provide a wide array of amenities that protect oral health. They encourage the early detection and prevention of dental issues, letting timely intervention prevent them from accelerating into severe conditions. By detecting issues, for example, gum disease, cavities, or oral infections at a primary stage, holistic dental exams become instrumental in protecting your precious smile. 

Professional dental cleanings eliminate stubborn tartar and plaque accumulation effectively. By minimizing tartar and plaque, you can impede tooth decay and reduce the probability of developing gum disease and foul breath. Additionally, it minimizes the likelihood of gum inflammation, periodontal diseases, and gingivitis.    

How Often Should You Visit The Dentist?

You might wonder if you need to visit the dentist every 6 months. Well, it depends! Usually, a dental checkup must be arranged every 6-12 months, but your dental professional in Farragut will work with you to build a customized treatment plan. 

When should you visit the dentist between daily teeth cleanings and checkups?

Sometimes, you may bypass a bit of tooth sensitivity or ache and foresee it to go away on its own. But it’s crucial to keep pace with daily dental exams and get dental issues crosschecked as quickly as possible. Any discomfort or unusual bleeding in your gum and teeth when you drink, eat, floss, or brush indicates it’s time to visit a dentist. Some of the vital signs are the following:

• Swelling, a lump, or numbness in your cheek, jaw, tongue, and lips.
• Foul breath in your mouth.
• Discoloration or swelling of your gums.

Conclusion

Adhering to proper dental hygiene and visiting your dentist for checkups every 6 months will help protect your gums and teeth in the long term. People can avoid pricey and complex treatments by focusing on preventive dentistry while protecting their million-dollar smiles.  

If you want dental veneers, talking to your dentist about it is the first step to take. Veneers are thin covers made of porcelain or resin that go over the front of your teeth. They can fix various dental problems at once, including stains, chips, or gaps. Some dental clients wonder how to bring up and talk about veneers with their dentist, what to ask, etc. 

Before your appointment, think about what you want. Do you want your teeth whiter? Straighter? A different shape? Write down your questions or anything you are worried about on a piece of paper or in your phone’s notes app. This helps you make the most of your time with the dentist. It is also nice to do some homework on veneers before you go. 

When you know the overview, it will be easier for you to understand what your dentist tells you. Raleigh has many skilled dentists who can explain what is best for you based on your teeth and what you are looking for. If you feel like you are ready to take the next step, visit a specialist for dental veneers in Raleigh, NC, today. 

Prepare for your consultation

Before you go to the dentist, it is important to collect information about what you want to achieve with veneers. Take time and think about why you need them, such as fixing gaps between your teeth, making your teeth more white, etc. 

When you have a goal in your mind, you can easily talk to the dentist and explain your needs. Moreover, you are advised to bring photos or examples of smiles that you wish for. This will help your dentist to get a more clear idea of what you are aiming for. 

It is also very important to be open about any concerns like costs, durability, and so on. This way, the dentist would be able to give you the best advice and plan for your smile makeover.

Questions to ask your dentist

It is very important to ask your dentist some common questions if you are planning to get veneers. You may start by asking whether veneers are the best option for your dental concerns. This question will clear the doubt if veneers are the right solution for your issues like discoloration, gaps, or chipped teeth. The durability of the veneers is also an important factor. 

Ask your dentist how long the veneers are going to last and how regularly they need to be maintained. This will help you take care of the veneers and plan for the future in case of any issues. Moreover, you should also ask them about the dental procedure. This will help you get prepared and understand what to expect during the procedure. 

Lastly, do not forget the cost. Do not hesitate to ask your dentist how much the veneers are going to cost. This will help you decide whether it is fitting in your budget.

Discuss your dental history

Your dental history also plays an important role here. When you visit the dentist, tell them about your dental history. Make sure you mention any relevant medical or dental conditions, like gum disease, tooth decay, or teeth grinding, as these could affect the success of veneers. 

For example, if you have thin enamel, veneers might not be the best option without additional treatment. Moreover, you should also talk about any previous dental treatment, such as braces, fillings, or crowns. Your dentist will need this information to decide if veneers will work well for you or if they need to perform any additional treatment.

Considering dental veneers to enhance your smile?

By talking to a dentist, you can get accurate and quality information about veneers and many other options at your disposal. Schedule a consultation with a dentist, preferably one specializing in veneers, today!

A smile can instantly brighten your face and it is what people remember about you. Likewise, people will notice every time you cover your mouth and hide your smile. Sadly, a lot of people do this because of insecurities about their teeth. However, you do not need to be conscious about your smile forever. A reputable dental practice in Buffalo Grove can offer different dental services to help you achieve your dream smile. Below are different cosmetic dentistry solutions you can explore:

Dental Veneers

If you have discolored, crooked, or misshapen teeth, you can benefit from dental veneers. These thin porcelain coverings adhere to the tooth’s front surface permanently. They can fix discoloration, chips, mild crookedness, and misshapen teeth. Also, dental veneers are a great option since they can preserve the structure of your jawbone. But not everyone can get veneers. Such dental restorations work only if teeth have sufficient structure and aren’t seriously damaged or crooked. Thus, you must consult a dentist to determine if you are a good candidate for veneers. 

Professional Teeth Whitening

With age, your teeth experience significant wear and tear, including discoloration from the foods and drinks you consume. If you are not happy about the color of your teeth, professional whitening can help restore their former glory. Such a procedure takes just one appointment to be completed. 

Invisalign

If you are concerned about your crooked smile and do not want to get metal braces, speak to your dentist about Invisalign. This treatment does not only correct crooked teeth but also fixes irregularities such as overbites, underbites, and other jaw misalignments. Clear aligners are almost invisible, so people may not notice you have undergone orthodontic treatment. 

Dental Implants

As much as possible, you probably want to preserve your teeth forever. But this can be challenging because of cavities that may result in eventual tooth loss when not addressed. If you have one or more missing teeth, you do not have to be conscious about your smile. Dental implants can restore your smile and chewing ability effectively. These titanium screws are surgically implanted into your jawbone, serving as tooth roots. To complete the procedure, crowns are attached to the implants, giving your mouth a new breath of life. The implants and the artificial teeth function, feel and look like your real teeth. As dental implants act like tooth roots, they offer the stimulation your jaw bone needs, preventing bone loss. 

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns can protect decayed or damaged teeth. They cover the tooth’s entire surface. Often, the tooth must undergo certain treatments to make sure it’s in perfect shape before caps can be added to tit For example, if a seriously decayed tooth may need root canal treatment, which can be completed by adding a crown to the treated tooth. Such an addition keeps the root canal safeguarded against future issues. 

Dental Bonding

This dental procedure involves restoring your teeth with composite resin. This material is matched to your teeth’s color and can fix dental flaws such as cracks and chips. Also, composite resin can fill in teeth gaps and reshape your teeth. 

Dental bonding is ideal for teeth that sustained minor damage and are not seriously decayed. Also, it is perfect if you are already satisfied with your teeth color. 

With all the cosmetic dentistry options discussed above, there is hope for your insecurities about your smile. You do not have to go another day with your flawed smile. Schedule an appointment with a cosmetic dentist to learn more about your options and get help picking the best one for you. Today should be the day to start your journey to your desired smile. 

A dental emergency can be a frightening experience for any parent, especially when it affects a toddler. One of the most common and potentially serious dental emergencies in young children is a dental abscess. A dental abscess is a painful and potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when a bacterial infection causes a pocket of pus to form in the gum tissue or bone surrounding a tooth. If left untreated, a dental abscess can lead to serious complications, including the spread of infection to other parts of the body. 

In this article, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for dental abscesses in toddlers, and guide what to do in case of a dental emergency.

What is a Dental Abscess?

A dental abscess is a pocket of pus that forms in the gum tissue or bone surrounding a tooth. It’s usually caused by a bacterial infection that spreads from the tooth to the surrounding tissue. Abscesses can be extremely painful and, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications, such as the spread of infection to other parts of the body.

What Are The Causes of Dental Abscesses in Toddlers?

Dental abscesses in toddlers are often caused by tooth decay, which is the most common chronic disease affecting children. Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in the mouth break down sugars from food and drinks, producing acid that damages tooth enamel. If left untreated, tooth decay can progress, leading to infection and abscess formation.

Other causes of dental abscesses in toddlers include:

• Trauma to the tooth or gum
• Gum disease
• Infected tooth pulp
• Poor oral hygiene

What Are The Symptoms of Dental Abscesses in Toddlers?

Identifying a dental abscess in a toddler can be challenging, as they may not be able to communicate their symptoms effectively. However, there are some common signs and symptoms to look out for, including:

• Severe toothache or pain in the gum
• Swelling or redness of the gum
• Pus or discharge around the tooth
• Fever
• Irritability or restlessness
• Refusal to eat or drink
• Swelling of the face or cheek

What to Do in Case of a Dental Abscess Emergency?

If you suspect that your toddler has a dental abscess, it’s essential to seek immediate dental attention. Here are some steps to follow:

• Contact your pediatric dentist or a local emergency dentist.
• Provide your child with pain relief, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin).
• Apply a cold compress to the affected area to reduce swelling.
• Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

What Are The Treatment Options for Dental Abscesses in Toddlers?

Here are some common treatment options:

Antibiotics

Antibiotics are usually prescribed to treat the underlying bacterial infection causing the abscess. The type and duration of antibiotic treatment will depend on the severity of the infection and the child’s overall health.

Pain Management

Pain relief medication, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin), may be prescribed to help manage the child’s pain and discomfort.

Dental Procedures

• Incision and Drainage: A small incision is made in the gum to drain the abscess.
• Tooth Extraction: In some cases, the infected tooth may need to be extracted to prevent further infection.
• Pulpotomy: A pulpotomy is a procedure that removes the infected pulp from the tooth, helping to preserve the tooth.
• Root Canal: A root canal may be necessary to remove the infected pulp and restore the tooth.

Dental abscesses are a serious dental emergency that requires immediate attention. As a parent, it’s essential to be aware of the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for dental abscesses in toddlers. By practicing good oral hygiene, scheduling regular dental check-ups, and seeking immediate dental attention in case of an emergency, you can help prevent dental abscesses and ensure your child’s oral health and well-being.