Dental crowns are used for a variety of reasons. It could be because your tooth has been damaged due to decay and not able to support the tooth filling. When a child is at a risk of suffering from tooth decay in the future because he or she is not able to maintain the required oral hygiene, dental crowns help protect the teeth. These are also then the perfect way to reduce the number of times a child may require to be given general anesthesia for dental procedures.

Types of dental crowns

There are several types of dental crowns available today and here are some you can learn more about when you visit your dentist.

Stainless steel crowns

These are prefabricated and can be used as temporary crowns or even permanent teeth. These are used in place to protect a tooth or filling while a permanent crown is being made. It is a popular choice for children when it is fitted over primary teeth and can be removed later. When the primary tooth falls out to make way for the permanent one, the crown will come off naturally together with the old tooth. The reason for its popularity with children’s teeth is that it is cost effective and does not require frequent visits to the dentist.

Metal crowns

These are metal alloy or gold alloy dental crowns. When using metal crowns, there is no need to remove too much of the tooth structure. These crowns can withstand the force of biting and chewing as well and hence have a longer life.

All resin crowns

These are not expensive and do not have a long life either since they are prone to fractures when compared to other crowns.

Metal fused with porcelain

These are made so that the color matches that of the adjacent tooth. However, when compared to metal or resin crowns, these can wear the opposite teeth. Porcelain is also prone to breaking or chipping off.

All ceramic or all porcelain crowns

These are more of a color match than other crowns and are also more suitable for patients who are allergic to metal. They are, however, not as strong as metal crowns and may also wear the opposite teeth.

Dental crowns are either temporary or permanent. While the temporary ones can be made in your dentist’s office, permanent crowns will always be manufactured in a dental laboratory.

                                "Where rising stars grow shining smiles"

Congratulations on the arrival of your little one! Having a baby is an exciting time as there are so many things to know and do, especially if you are a first time parent. We know keeping them happy while you try to get some sleep is at the top of the list! It is not surprising that you probably haven't even thought of what to do when your baby gets his / her first tooth. At the first dental visit, we will look at your child's early oral health and make recommendations about the best way to care for his / her teeth. The earlier that the issues are caught, the easier to resolve and to ensure everything is progressing appropriately. We have seen the problems that can arise from delaying treatment, and we take pride in helping families prevent unnecessary ailments.

1. When should I take my child to the dentist for the first check-up?

"First visit by first birthday" is the general rule. To prevent dental problems, your child should see a pediatric dentist ( specialists in dentistry for children and teens ) when the first tooth appears, usually between 6 and 12 months of age, certainly no later than his / her first birthday.

2. How can I help my child through the teething stage?

Sore gums when teeth erupt are part of the normal eruption process. The discomfort is eased for some children by use of a teething biscuit, a piece of a toast or a frozen teething ring. Your pharmacy should also have medications that can be rubbed on the gums to reduce the discomfort.

3. How should I clean my baby's teeth?

A toothbrush with soft bristles and a small head, especially one designed for infants, is the best choice for infants. Brushing at least once a day, at bed time, will remove plaque bacteria that can lead to decay.

4. When should my child start using toothpaste?

Do not use fluoridated toothpaste until 3 years of age. Earlier than that, clean your child's teeth with water and a soft - bristled toothbrush. After age 3, parents should supervise brushing .Use no more than a pea - sized amount of toothpaste and make sure children do not swallow excess toothpaste.

5. Can thumb sucking be harmful for my child's teeth?

Thumb and Pacifier sucking habits that go on for a long period of time can create crowded, crooked teeth or bite problems. If they are still sucking their thumbs or fingers when the permanent teeth arrive, a mouth appliance may be recommended by your pediatric dentist. Most children stop these habits on their own.

6. If my child gets a cavity in a baby tooth, should it still be filled?

Primary or "Baby'' teeth are important for many reasons. Not only do they help to children speak clearly and chew naturally, they also aid in forming a path that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to erupt. Some of them are necessary until a child is 12 years old or longer. Pain, infection of the gums and jaws, impairment of general health and premature loss of teeth are just a few of the problems that can happen when baby teeth are neglected. Also, because tooth decay is really an infection and will spread, decay on baby teeth can cause decay on permanent teeth. Proper care of baby teeth is instrumental in enhancing the health of your child.

7. How do dental sealants work and why are they so important?

Dental Sealants are an effective way to prevent cavities especially for those children with a history of tooth decay. Sealants work by filling in the crevasses on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. This prevents food particles from getting caught in the teeth causing cavities. The pediatric dentist applies the invisible protector by drying and conditioning the teeth painting on the sealant and then light curing it to harden. The application is fast and comfortable and can effectively protect teeth for many years.

8. What is the role of dental fluoride in pediatric dentistry?

  Along with dental sealants, dental fluoride treatment is one of the most effective ways to prevent tooth decay and maintain excellent dental health in children. Fluoride treatments are both safe and effective in decreasing the cavity prevalence in children by 95% specifically, when combined with dental sealants. Making the tooth more impervious to acid attacks caused by sugars and plaque bacteria in the mouth, fluoride acts as a shield for the outer enamel layer of the teeth and actually has the ability to reverse the early signs of a dental decay. Ask your pediatric dentist about professional fluoride treatment for your child.

9. How safe are dental x - rays? Why are they so important?

There is very little risk in dental x - rays. You actually get more radiation by getting out in the sun for 10 minutes than you get with a digital radio graph. Pediatric dentists are especially careful to limit the amount of radiation to which children are exposed. Lead aprons and digital radiography are used to ensure safety and minimize the amount of radiation. Without x - rays the dentists may not be able to see cavities that are forming between a child's teeth. With an x - ray the dentists can detect a cavity early on and treat it with a small filling. Without an x - ray the dentists will not be able to detect the cavity until it is so large that it may require a crown to be placed.

10. What should I do if my child knocks out a permanent tooth?

The most important thing to do is to remain calm. Then find the tooth, gently place it in a glass of saline solution or milk to keep it moist until you get to the dentist’s office. To avoid damaging the root, hold the tooth only by the crown. Thoroughly examine your child’s mouth for fragments of the tooth if it’s broken, and immediately take your child and the glass to the pediatric dentist.

Dr. Krinita Motwani

Call - +91 9820280343 / +91 9819002288

Khar West, Mumbai - India

Email - drkrinitamotwani@gmail.com

Teeth are very essential part of the human body. Teeth helps us in chewing our food. They also give a proper shape to our face, help in speech, thereby enhancing our confidence. If for some reason a few or all of your permanent teeth have either fallen out or been removed, then you might be using artificial teeth i.e. dentures. If you’re missing all of your natural teeth, then you might be using complete false teeth; or if you are missing just one tooth or a few teeth, then you might be using partial false teeth.

If you have dentures or false teeth, then it is very important to take care of them. We have jotted down some tips that will help you to take proper care of your artificial teeth.

Tips to take proper care of your dentures

1.  Rinse your dentures after you eat & thoroughly clean them daily:

In order to remove the remains of food particle being stuck in your false teeth, rinse them thoroughly after you eat.

If your artificial teeth get plaque, then it can lead to problems in the tissues like infection and irritation. There are special types of soft bristled brushes available for your false teeth, not the one you use for regular teeth. You can use regular hand soap, mildly abrasive tooth paste or the dental paste for cleaning of your dentures.

Avoid

·   Do not use denture cleaners in your mouth.

·   Do not wear your false teeth for long.

·   Don’t use abrasive toothpaste for whitening of your false teeth.

2.   Handle your dentures with utmost care

Dentures can break easily and therefore you need to take extra care of them. Try cleaning them over folded towel or in a bowl of water. While you are not wearing your false teeth keep them out of reach of your children or pets.

Avoid

·   Don’t use toothpicks while wearing dentures.

·   Don’t use hard brushes or strong cleaners for cleaning your false teeth.

3.  Give them a break from your mouth

Take off your dentures before going to bed.  This will relax your mouth muscles.

If you don’t have an option to take off your artificial teeth at night, then make sure you remove them for at least six to eight hours at another time of the day. It is recommended to soak your dentures in warm water if they have metal clasps. If they don’t have metal clasps, you can use half vinegar – half water solution or a special denture cleanser. Also, take note of manufacturer’s instructions on soaking and cleaning solutions. Soaking will help you get your false teeth free from stains, plaque, tartar and bacteria.

Avoid

·   Avoid Denture-soaking solution to be swallowed. It can cause vomiting, nausea, etc.

·   Don’t use hot or boiling water for cleaning your artificial teeth.

4.   Watch for changes in the fitting of your dentures

The gums and bones in our mouth change over time. This can lead to an improper fitting of your false teeth. You should immediately check-in with your dentist.

Improper fitting of your dentures can cause abdominal gas from swallowing air. It is very important to get checked with your dentist as dentures that don’t fit properly can be a sign of periodontal disease.

Avoid

·  Don’t take too long to visit dentist if you encounter improper fit of your artificial teeth.

·  Don’t bend or damage the plastic of your artificial teeth while cleaning.

·  Don’t mend your false teeth yourself.

5.  Take Nutritious Diet and look after your whole mouth

Most of the times it happens that your false teeth make it difficult or painful to bite and chew fresh fruits and vegetables. Because of this, there is a risk you’re missing out on essential nutrients. Therefore, make sure that you are eating a well-balanced diet including nutrients essential for your body.

A healthy diet results in a healthy mouth.

Avoid

·  Don’t eat fruits with cover. Peel off the outer cover or drink fruit juices to remain healthy.

Over To You

It is advised to schedule regular dental checkups, like any other health intervention, to keep your false teeth healthy and clean. The dentist will examine your dentures along with checking inside of your mouth.

At Clear Choice Dental, you can feel relaxed that your family will be treated professionally and with utmost care including dentures. To discuss your oral health and denture options, call Clear Choice Dental at (08) 6001 6150 today or schedule your appointment at the website.

Best Dental Tips for a Healthy Lifestyle

Good oral health can have many life changing benefits. From greater self-confidence which leads to better luck in relationships and careers, to better overall health, and much more. Good oral health can not only transform your visual appearance, but also your entire life. Before 2017 ends, here are 6 ways of improving your oral health!

1. Proper Brushing

This might seem obvious to most people, but read carefully. To properly brush your teeth, you need to position the bristles at a 45 degree angle near your gum line. Both the tooth surface and the gum line should be in contact with the bristles.

Gently, but thoroughly brush your teeth's outer surfaces using a up and down, back and forth motion. To clean your gum and teeth's inside surfaces, place the bristles at a 45 degree angle yet again and repeat the same motions.

That said, remember to replace your toothbrush every 2 to 4 months. An old, frayed toothbrush will not properly clean your teeth. For more information on how to properly clean your teeth, visit Friendlydentalgroup.com. 

2. Use Mouth Rinse for Extra Protection

In addition to brushing, you can use a mouth rinse to increase the cleanliness of your mouth. Mouth rinses can help reduce plaque and bacteria, which cause gum disease and gingivitis. They can also help maintain good breath and prevent tooth decay. 

3. Eliminate Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits

There are certain lifestyle choices we make which have a very negative effect on our oral health. Two of the most common ones are smoking tobacco and drinking alcohol. Tobacco and alcohol have very damaging effects to your oral region and even your overall health.

Numerous studies have revealed that these two unhealthy habits can cause oral cancer, lung cancer, periodontal diseases, bad breath, tooth loss, tooth discoloration, and can also lower the success rate of a dental implant procedures.

4. Limit Your Sugary Drinks Intake

Excessive sugar is not only associated with bad oral health, but also increased risk of poor overall health. Excessive consumption of sugar can lead to increased risks of gum problems and tooth decay. 

In addition to avoiding sugary drinks, avoid drinks which contain additives such as food dye and corn syrup because they can make the pearly whites appear discolored or dull. Choose beverages such as milk, which helps build stronger teeth and enamel, giving you a beautiful, healthy smile.

5. Clean Your Tongue

The tongue is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. Plaque and bacteria can actually gather under, on, and around your tongue. Therefore, cleaning and scraping the surface of your tongue on a regular basis will help keep you healthy and free of bad breath. You can either use a toothbrush or a tongue cleaner. 

6. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

For better oral health, you should visit your dentist on a regular basis, at least two times a year for a full oral hygiene treatment. The appointments involve a comprehensive exam which helps detect and prevent any future dental problems from occurring.

Conclusion

Pro-active oral health care is the ideal way to help ensure your general well being and prevent dental issues from developing. Good oral hygiene will result in a mouth which smells and looks healthy.

So, if you are in Charlotte, NC and you are looking for a really good dentists, contact Friendly Dental Group at South Park as they have been great for my oral health. For more more information, visit https://friendlydentalgroup.com/locations/south-park/

Cosmetic augmentation is a restorative dentistry process that can help an individual who's suffering from lost tooth or teeth decay. Losing permanent teeth specially whenever you're a grownup can be extremely embarrassing. This may lead to negative impacts in your own personal, social and professional lives also. Decline in teeth in any age to anybody may be caused as a result of a number of reasons for example accidents, specific medical condition and also because of old age. This really is one particular condition that can be effectively treated through the distinct restorative whitening methods. The one thing which you have to be cautious of in this is to ensure that you seek treatment method to this out of some professionally qualified dentist who is recognized for his remedy procedures. This is really a exact crucial dentistry procedure and you should be certain that you're knowledgeable about the entire procedure in case you've got to endure the task.

Dental implants aren't nothing but a process of artificially creating teeth or tooth teeth instead place of the ones that are lost. The augmentation has been placed into the chin where the artificial teeth or the replacement tooth develops. A metal rod is set and also screwed onto the portion of the jaw from where the tooth is not missing. The chewing gum across the field of the jaw-bone is stitched back around the pole and also the new tooth develops out there. Dentists recommend some-time to curing the portion and in the event that you're one that has undergone the task you must make certain you rigorously follow all of the dentist has asked you to accomplish. The very best thing about getting dental implant NYC is the fact that the artificial teeth look so real that there is no possibility that everyone can write you out are maybe not having real toothdecay. Even you are unable to make outside that you're actually having teeth that are artificial.

The surgical procedure for dental implants is not done immediately and also you has to be prepared to experience the procedure, and sometimes it will devote some time for you to mend. Based on certain facets the healing process can happen time. Dental implants are a great method which may be used for replacing missing tooth. The success rate of dental enhancement is extremely substantial and this is only one among the principal reasons why this action is recommended by restorative dentist for those which are suffering from lost tooth or teethdecay. Cosmetic augmentation can be of fantastic assistance especially to folks that have been in old era. The artificial teeth they undergo dental implants can help them in chewing over their food properly besides supporting them grin and speak precisely.

You need to make sure that you are seeking treatment from a qualified dental practitioner. Examine the records of their dentist and also determine exactly how successful he or she has been around doing dental implants on people sooner. As that is a complex process the best means for one to truly be ready well for this action is usually to be well informed concerning the full procedure. If at any time you've got any questions concerning any of it, you should consult the dental practitioner and then describe all your doubts.

Dr. Ismael Khouly has particular interest in dentistry and health related topics. To learn more regarding Dentist, Dental Implant NYC or all types of dental crisis stop by Dr.Ismael Khouly's Clinic.

Inviѕаlign iѕ a mоdеrn аррrоасh tо ѕtrаightеning teeth thrоugh thе uѕе of a ѕеriеѕ оf сuѕtоm-mаdе аlignеr trays. Thе aligner trауѕ аrе mаdе оf smooth, comfortable рlаѕtiс thаt уоu wеаr оvеr уоur tееth. Chооѕing to imрrоvе уоur ѕmilе is a big dесiѕiоn thаt can аffесt your арреаrаnсе and lifеѕtуlе. Whatever уоur reason fоr сhооѕing tо straighten your tееth, Inviѕаlign can рrоvidе a simple ѕоlutiоn tо асhiеving your desired ѕmilе whеthеr you’re аn adult оr teen.

Invisalign iѕ a ѕуѕtеm оf clear аlignеrѕ that helps teenagers and adults асhiеvе ѕtrаight, еvеn ѕmilеѕ withоut the uѕе of trаditiоnаl оr clear braces. Sinсе Inviѕаlign аlignеrѕ аrе mаdе ѕресifiсаllу to trеаt еасh раtiеnt’ѕ оrthоdоntiс needs, they are often more соmfоrtаblе to wear. Inviѕаlign iѕ ѕlightlу mоrе еxреnѕivе thаn traditional braces. Hоwеvеr, fоr a lot of patients, the еffесtivеnеѕѕ of the dеviсе оutwеighѕ thе inсrеаѕеd rates.

Cаn I Eat And Drink Normally With Inviѕаlign?

One of the things thаt реорlе hаtе аbоut hаving trаditiоnаl or even clear brасеѕ iѕ that thеу have to give up сеrtаin foods during trеаtmеnt. With Invisalign, thеrе аrе nо food rеѕtriсtiоnѕ. One of the fеw timеѕ that you remove уоur аlignеrѕ iѕ when уоu are eating. Thеn, you clean your teeth and рut уоur аlignеrѕ bасk in. Yоu can соntinuе to eat crunchy fооdѕ, drink coffee, аnd eat fооdѕ with tomato based ѕаuсеѕ. Thе only restriction gеnеrаllу given with Inviѕаlign iѕ tо аvоid сhеwing gum, whiсh ѕtiсkѕ to the аlignеrѕ.

Is Thеrе Anу Pаin From Wеаring Invisalign?

If уоu аrе worried аbоut thе раin thаt iѕ оftеn аѕѕосiаtеd with thе uѕе оf trаditiоnаl brасеѕ, then уоu ѕhоuld соnѕidеr Inviѕаlign. Althоugh some раtiеntѕ rероrt minоr diѕсоmfоrt in thе first fеw dауѕ оf a using a new аlignеr, it iѕ gеnеrаllу far lеѕѕ unсоmfоrtаblе than trаditiоnаl оr сlеаr brасеѕ. Patients often rероrt it nоt as feeling раinful, but as a feeling оf рrеѕѕurе in thеir mouth.

Iѕ Wеаring Thе Alignеrѕ Complicated?

Inviѕаlign is clear аnd еаѕу tо uѕе. Thе аlignеrѕ are grеаt fоr реорlе who are wоrriеd аbоut thе аttеntiоn thаt thеу may gеt frоm wеаring traditional brасеѕ. Since thеу lооk аnd fit similar tо a сuѕtоm whitеning trау, they аrе nоt аѕ nоtiсеаblе during trеаtmеnt. Sоmе раtiеntѕ do rероrt hаving a small liѕр during thе first fеw dауѕ оf trеаtmеnt. However, thiѕ gоеѕ away аѕ уоur tоnguе learns to navigate in your mоuth with the аlignеrѕ.

Hоw Lоng Dоеѕ Inviѕаlign Tаkе Tо Wоrk?

Invisalign trеаtmеnt takes, on аvеrаgе, аbоut a уеаr. Hоwеvеr, it соuld take mоrе timе tо hеlр you gеt thе smile оf уоur drеаmѕ. 

As a dentist office owner you're the reputation matters. As much as some people like to think a good reputation isn’t something you can buy. Sure, you can toss money at an advertising agency in hopes they’ll frame you in the best possible light. Online reviewers can do more to define your reputation than any dental marketing strategy. If you ignore your online presence you can lose

Maintaining a website and courting online reviews are two fundamentals of developing an online reputation for your dental office. Both are important—they can make or break you or your business. Businesses without websites makes it really difficult for potential new clients to find you. Thirty-four percent of consumers probably won’t consider using your business if you don’t have a website.

Online reviews are the backbone of your dental practice reputation online. More than half of people said they won’t use a business if it has negative online reviews. Don’t pretend that only a minority of potential customers read reviews. These days, almost everyone checks reviews before deciding whether or not to use a business. In fact, seventy-five percent of people think it’s necessary to read reviews before committing on which business to use.

Creating an online presence and maintaining a positive presence could elevate your business above your competitors. If you don’t take these statistics seriously, on the other hand, it could inflict untold damage on your business and your future.

Source: https://broadly.com/blog/online-reviews-dentists

Neglecting your oral health does not just mean bad breath and dental problems. Poor oral hygiene can lead to serious health problems. That is why it is important to keep a regular routine of good oral hygiene practices to avoid such dilemma.

The key is to have regular visits to your local dentist. Missing dental appointments may not seem like a big issue but once you experience serious oral issues and health problems, you may have wished you did.

Friendly Dental Group's team of dedicated dentists at Friendlydentalgroup.com are not just concerned with resolving tooth decay and other dental problems. They provide the best dental services to keep your oral health and at the same time your overall health in good condition.

By maintaining good oral health, you can avoid the following health problems. These medical conditions have been associated with poor oral health.

1.       Heart Attack – Untreated tooth decay and gum problems can trigger multiplication of bacteria in the mouth which can lead to severe infection. Bacteria can travel from the mouth to the heart and can cause heart attack.

How?

Bacteria can cause inflammation in the blood vessels. When this happens, blood flow is restricted thereby causing increased blood pressure and blood clots, which eventually leads to heart attack or stroke.

2.        Endocarditis – This is a life-threatening condition. It refers to the inflammation of the heart’s valves and muscle lining caused by bacterial infection.

Poor oral hygiene cause bacteria buildup in the mouth which eventually leads to gum diseases. When left untreated, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream and travel to the heart causing inflammation to the valves and inner lining.

3.       Type 2 Diabetes – A study published in PLoS One showed the direct correlation between periodontal therapy and type 2 diabetes. The analysis was that treating periodontal disease have significantly improved patients’ blood glucose control.

4.       Osteoporosis – Periodontitis and tooth loss have known to cause or worsen osteoporosis (bone loss). Several studies have shown that patients who have osteoporosis have frequent or untreated gum diseases. The inflammation caused by periodontitis is seen as the main culprit in bone damage.

5.       Lung Problems – Bacterial infection caused by untreated gum problems can travel to the lungs and increase bacteria buildup and inflammation of pulmonary arteries. This condition may cause or worsen lung problems such as Pneumonia and COPD or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

Keeping your oral health is as important as maintaining a good healthy lifestyle. Visit your local dentist regularly to avoid serious dental problems that can cause life-threatening medical conditions.

Prevention is always better than treating oral problems. For more information on how to keep your gums health and your teeth in check, contact the dedicated team at Friendly Dental Group of Holly Springs by visiting:

https://friendlydentalgroup.com/locations/holly-springs/

One of the most effective methods to improve functionality and appearance of your teeth is dental braces. While wearing braces can be painful, it doesn’t have to be unbearable.  Wearing braces can cause a bit of uneasiness and mild discomfort. But relax, the pain is reasonable; and in most of the cases, it is temporary.  There are many ways to reduce braces pain and get relief fast. Here are a few ways to manage pain and discomfort caused by braces.

Tips to Reduce Braces Pain and get relief fast

1. Use salt water to swish

After braces treatment, occasionally, you may develop mouth sores surrounding your gums and cheeks because of tightened metal wires. To get relief from sores and its pain, the best way is to swish with warm salt water. It not only reduces brain but also fights with infection.

2. Apply ice cubes or ice packs

Ice and cold packs can effectively help you get relief from pain, swelling, and inflammation from soars. When your newly fixed braces cause soreness in your mouth, the best thing you should do is to apply an ice pack. Ice reduces irritation and swelling which ultimately help reduce pain.

3. Have more cold foods and drinks

Popsicles and ice-creams not only taste delicious, but they can also help reduce braces pain and discomfort. Cold items numb your mouth and thereby reduce soreness. If rubbing ice isn’t comfortable, you can even sip iced water. Also, never skip brushing your teeth after eating sweet dishes to prevent decay.

4. Alter your daily diet

Tightened braces can make your teeth, gums, and jaw sensitive. When you have your braces tightened, eating food becomes painful. Hence, dentists recommend avoiding hard and crunchy food like chips, raw vegetables, nuts, etc. Alternatively, you can switch to the soft food that doesn’t require much of chewing like mashed vegetables, liquid diet, soups, yogurt, and others. Once your teeth and gums get adjusted to braces, your pain subsides and you can resume normal eating habits.

5. Take few doses of painkillers

In few cases, even after applying the above-mentioned home remedies, pain remains unbearable. Here, the way out to reduce braces pain and get relief is medication, i.e., pain killer medicines.  If the pain is severe, you might need to take prescribed doses of acetaminophen or ibuprofen. These medicines help reduce braces pain and ease swelling. Another alternative is oral anesthetics. A gel called Orajel can be directly applied to the teeth and gums either with a finger or with a cotton swab. Orajel desensitizes the specific area where it is applied and provides you some comfort.

Closing thought

At last, once your teeth will get adjusted to the braces, pain, and discomfort will gradually disappear.  Mild pain will be for few days only, and then you will get a beautiful, confident, and perfectly aligned smile. For further information, consult to your orthodontist and get a healthier, more beautiful smile.

“A picture may worth a thousand words. A beautiful smile is priceless………..”

Whether we admit or not, most people can’t resist checking out photos of celebrities in their natural state (I know I can’t). Cheesy as it sounds, it’s comforting to know that without an armada of stylists and makeup artists, all those glamour girls and guys look just as ordinary as the rest of us. But typically one of the biggest transformations the glossy magazine crowd has gone through is to turn their ho-hum smiles into the megawatt grins known to the whole world.

“Are you looking to get that perfect Hollywood smile “? 60 – 70% people have probably experienced decay, excessive wear, discoloration and shifting of the teeth.  So what makes porcelain veneers so popular and are they right for you? We are here to break down the facts and uncover the common misconceptions.

 Some of the common misconceptions are:-

-          The application of veneers is painful

-          The entire tooth must be filed down before veneers can be placed

-          Veneers are unnaturally white and noticeable

      What exactly are Porcelain Veneers?

The term “veneer” usually means a very thin covering that’s designed to improve the way a surface looks. The porcelain veneers we use in cosmetic dentistry are just like that. They cover up flaws in the natural teeth, while preserving their strength and vitality. Porcelain veneers are wafer-thin layers of super-strong material, which are bonded to the front surfaces of the teeth. Once placed on your teeth, they offer a permanent way to improve a smile.

     What kinds of smile defects can porcelain veneers fix?

   Veneers can help with a whole range of issues, including:-

    -          Colour:-Teeth that are deeply stained or yellowed – even those which can’t be lightened with professional bleaching - can be restored to a brilliant white (or a natural lustre) with porcelain veneers.

    -          Shape and size:-If your teeth have become worn down with age, or have clips or roughened edges, veneers can restore them to a more pleasing shape. They can also lengthen teeth that appear too short, for a dramatic enhancement of your smile.

   -          Alignment and spacing:- For closing a small gap between teeth or making other minor adjustments in tooth spacing or position, veneers maybe just what you need; more serious issues can be handled with orthodontics.

     What happens during the porcelain veneers procedure?

Once you have decided that you want porcelain veneers your dentist will make study models of your teeth. The reason for this is that your dentist will be able to give you a mock up of what your teeth can look like when the porcelain veneers are in place. At this time you and your dentist can discuss the size, shape and colour of your new porcelain veneers. Once these models are approved, an appointment can be set up for the actual procedure. Local anaesthesia is generally recommended if there will be tooth preparation to avoid any discomfort. Once the preparation of your teeth is completed your dentist will take an impression of your teeth. This impression will be used by the dental laboratory to create your custom porcelain veneers. Once fabricated, you will return to have the porcelain veneers placed onto your teeth. Initially your dentist will place the veneers to check that the colour, shape and size is as desired. If they meet all your expectations, the dentist will bond them to your teeth creating your new smile.

     How do I care for my porcelain veneers?

Dental visits should continue as usual. Brushing and flossing will help prevent decay around your veneers. Porcelain veneers are quite strong but it is possible to break / fracture them. The following activities should be avoided like breaking nuts with teeth, tearing open packages, biting and tearing hard items and ice chewing.

     How long porcelain veneers last?

The longevity of porcelain veneers will vary from individual to individual. The general rule is they last about 10 – 15 years although some can expect a longer lifespan for them. If porcelain veneers chip, crack or show any wear they can be replaced refreshing your smile.

 Dr.Krinita Motwani

 Call - +91 9820280343 / + 91 9819002288

 Khar West - Mumbai,India

 Email - drkrinitamotwani@gmail.com

In the current quest for splendor and eternal youth cosmetic-dentistry is now emerging right into the forefront. Lots of people are choosing to use the many different approaches of aesthetic dentistry to improve the expression of these smile. While cosmetic dentistry takes into account the treatment of dental troubles and even the avoidance of dental issues the main attention would be on improving the overall visual appeal of a patient's smile. While cosmetic dentistry is not just a modern-day elixir of youth there are significant added benefits to making use of cosmetic operation. A sensible consumer will consider the problem from all sides. While it would be imprudent to say there are no disadvantages to cosmetic-dentistry because of today most individuals report being satisfied with the results of their procedures. The discipline of cosmetic dentistry has many advantages. Here are Merely a few-

1. Of course the greatest gain to cosmetic-dentistry is it produces results. Patients that simply several years ago might have been required to be pleased with chipped, cracked or chipped teeth could now get this mended. Teeth which have been deeply discolored could be white. Infact many kinds of dental defects might be adjusted with cosmetic dentistry. Cosmetic-dentistry may even reduce signals of aging and render the individual with a more energetic and youthful overall look.

2. Additionally, it may repair dental damage caused by trauma, disease, infection, developmental abnormalities, or even heredity. Since cosmetic surgery is therefore successful it can render the individual not simply with a more attractive physical overall look but an improved psychological outlook as well. Some sufferers report fighting with a long time of non self-esteem that is reversed when these sorts of dental issues are either adjusted or coated. They report being more comfortable not only with themselves but together with the others that they will have connections with.

3. Using the exclusion of those that live in extreme remote or rural are as cosmetic-dentistry is fairly accessible. Contrary to other forms of cosmetic surgery, cosmetic dentistry has become fairly wide spread even in smaller metropolitan places. While quite a few dentists decide to focus in cosmetic dentistry most of the techniques of cosmetic dentistry are not beyond the range of general dental practitioners. This leaves the prospect of employing cosmetic dentistry far more receptive into a broader sector of the populace.

4. While it could be dishonest to express cosmetic dentistry really is cheap the price tag on a lot of procedures utilised in cosmetic-dentistry is slowly decreasing. This empowers many more visitors to be in a position to profit from cosmetic dentistry. Additionally many dental insurances are opting to cover cosmetic dentistry procedures if performed to aid with structural explanations.

5. Patients considering aesthetic dentistry ought to check with their insurance provider to determine if procedures are insured. Cosmetic-dentistry includes long lasting effects. Unlike many other cosmetic approaches most aesthetic dental procedures can last as long as up of ten decadespast This really is an immense benefit for patients since it restricts the amount of funds and period that has to be committed to maintaining every thing procedure that's been achieved.

6. The recovery period out of cosmetic-dentistry is quite small. Some other cosmetic surgeries need a protracted healing time and involve a great amount of pain. Most patients using cosmetic dentistry record not only a brief recovery time but hardly any annoyance at the recovery. In addition the success fee for all these procedures is quite high with a few research showing achievements speeds in cosmetic dental procedures up in to the 90th percentile.

As with any other medi cal option sufferers should weigh both the advantages and disadvantages and after that create your choice that's best for them. But the most important thing is dental technologies has offered a fast, productive and relatively inexpensive means to improve our smiles with the use of aesthetic dentistry.

What to consider before getting Invisalign

Invisalign braces are a kind of orthodontic treatment and they help with straightening of teeth without the use of the traditional metal braces. It has offered a revolutionary method for today’s dental patients who have various options and do not have to be content with the use of brackets that look ugly and are inconvenient.

During your invisalign treatment, custom made plastic aligners are used which help with moving teeth to the desired position. Patients who never even considered the traditional braces are now trying out the invisalign aligners since they offer a discreet option for teeth correction. However, one question still remains – how costly is invisalign and is it worth the money you pay for them?

How much does invisalign cost?

When compared to the traditional braces, the cost of invisalign can be a bit higher. The average cost of invisalign, depending on the manufacturer ranges from $3500 to $8000. Your orthodontist will give you the estimated price. The price of the normal braces ranges from $2500 to $6000. The cost of invisalign differs depending on your individual case and you must discuss this with your dentist. Just like traditional braces, invisalign is also covered by dental insurance plans but you must discuss with your insurance company to know the extent of the coverage.

Are you the right candidate for invisalign?

Depending on your case and the amount you can afford, your dentist will decide the right treatment for you. When you take into account all the advantages of invisalign over the traditional braces, you will see that the cost is not so high. You are able to remove your invisalign braces for eating and brushing your teeth. If the cost of invisalign is still a matter of concern to you then you might want to check various payment options with your dentist. Some providers offer payment plans which are flexible and allow you to spread out your cost over time.

Invisalign will help you improve your smile beyond any normal cosmetics. With the straightening of your teeth, you are bound to regain your confidence. And the best part about invisalign is that nobody will even know you are undergoing the procedure with these clear and almost invisible braces.

Oral anxiousness or being afraid the dental professional is an issue that lots of people have, as well as something that is somewhat challenging to conquer. This fear usually protects against reasonable individuals from going to the dental professional as well as keeping the health and wellness of their teeth. The key to maintaining your teeth healthy is to stop problems prior to they begin. Those that struggle with dental anxiety will certainly try to stay clear of going to the dental expert, which leads to problems. A great dentist  will understand this issue very well.

When a person that struggles with dental stress and anxiety finally most  likely to the dentist, they usually find that even the tiniest of issues could turn severe as well as need a lot of work and also treatment from the dental professional. Even though you could not recognize it, normal cleaning visits to your dental professional is the best means to keep your teeth healthy and balanced, and also stop troubles such as degeneration as well as tooth cavities.

You could use several techniques to get over dental anxiousness. A few of the strategies require light sedatives, likewise described as sedation. Sedation is a way to kick back, provided by breathing or IV (Intra Capillary) with a blood vessel in your arm. Sedation will certainly aid you to cool down, although you will typically be awake to answer concerns or speak with your dental expert.

Some individuals who suffer from dental anxiousness have had bad experiences. Any type of unfavorable dental experience will usually result in emotional scarring and last for several years. Anything that results in negative sensations for the person will generally cause them to really feel in an unfavorable way towards the whole dental occupation. Although all dentists typically aren't negative-- a negative experience will absolutely make a patient feel that way.

When you look for a dentist, you should constantly ask your family and friends that they make use of, as well as that they advise. When you check out a dentist, you shouldn't think twice to ask him any concerns that come to mind, so you can be a lot more relaxed. You should constantly bear in mind that you are client, as well as the dental professional is the one that needs to make you feel kicked back. Never must you really feel daunted, as the best dental practitioners  will do everything they can to establish a sense of trust.

Developing count on is crucial with the patient/dentist connection. You'll be mostly like to go your dentist on a frequent basis, so you'll want to be sure that you can trust him. When you most likely to your dental professional for the very first time, you ought to allow him learn about your oral anxiety. If he isn't really going to discuss it with you or do points to assist you loosen up, you must check into a new dental practitioner.You can always tell that the much better dental practitioners are by the type of facilities they have. Dental practitioners who have a lot of consumers or great offices, have established themselves as well as showed that they are undoubtedly the best. If a dental professional has a great deal of customers, it allows you know that he has them for a factor. Individuals that are pleased with a dental professional, normally return.

If you experience dental anxiety, you must always allow your dental professional understand beforehand. This way, he collaborate with you to overcome your fear. In time, you'll discover that you could conquer your fear and develop a fantastic connection with your dentist. You can get over your fear of dental practitioners, no matter just how bad your fear might be. It will certainly take you a long time, although your dentist needs to be willing to deal with you. Before you recognize it, you'll more than your fear and greater than happy to most likely to your dental expert. 

Dеntаl сrоwnѕ represent a tуре оf dеnturе whiсh rерlасе the natural crown of teeth. Thе nаturаl сrоwn оf a tooth is thе part of a tooth аbоvе the tooth rооt and thе gum (оr gingivаl margin).A dеntаl сrоwn is needed when a tооth is so bаdlу damaged bу caries or tооth decay, that a dеntаl filling оr dеntаl inlау dоеѕn’t оffеr аn еffесtivе ѕоlutiоn аnуmоrе. Also dеntаl сrоwnѕ аrе applied if a tооth wаѕ lost аnd a dеntаl implant hаѕ already bееn inserted in its рlасе.

Whаt mаtеriаlѕ аrе uѕеd fоr dental сrоwnѕ?

Thеrе are five diffеrеnt tуреѕ оf dеntаl сrоwnѕ. Thеѕе differ in ѕеvеrаl аѕресtѕ.

1.Metal crowns: ѕinсе thеу аrеn’t tооth coloured as thеу соnѕiѕt оf mеtаl аrе mоrе likеlу tо bе аррliеd in less viѕiblе аrеаѕ.

2.Pоrсеlаin fuѕеd tо mеtаl сrоwnѕ (PFM) соnѕiѕt оf mеtаl in thе inside аnd of ѕуnthеtiс mаtеriаlѕ оr сеrаmiс lауеrѕ on thе оutѕidе.

3.An оthеr tуре оf dеntаl crowns аrе the  all-ceramic dental crown which аrе entirely made of сеrаmiс. All-сеrаmiс сrоwnѕ аrе vеrу аеѕthеtiс, which makes them thе most еxреnѕivе type оf dеntаl crowns. All-сеrаmiс crowns are аррliеd tо the viѕiblе tееth аrеаѕ in оrdеr tо fine-tune thе aesthetic оf the teeth, since аll-сеrаmiс crowns аrе the mоѕt ѕimilаr to nаturаl crowns.

4.Thе ѕо-саllеd galvanic gоld dеntаl crowns are similar tо аll сеrаmiс dеntаl сrоwnѕ in several аѕресtѕ, likе  quality аnd aesthetic, but аrе stabilised оn a base frаmе of uрѕсаlе gоld аllоуѕ.

5.A раrtiаl dеntаl сrоwn iѕ inѕеrtеd intо the inside оf thе tооth, if thе visible part of the tooth iѕn’t ѕо bаdlу dаmаgеd. Partial crowns are аррliеd in order to рrеvеnt оr аvоid the uѕе оf a соmрlеtе сrоwn.

Dеntаl сrоwn соѕt:

The costs оf a dеntаl crown dереnd оn ѕеvеrаl fасtоrѕ, ѕuсh аѕ the manufacture, mаtеriаlѕ, еffоrt and thе tуре of thе dеntаl crown. Cеrаmiс сrоwnѕ аrе thе mоѕt еxреnѕivе, thе costs are аррrоximаtеlу аt 1260 $ in thе US, аnd in Hungary аt 400 $.

Mаintаin dental сrоwnѕ: 

Mоdеrn dеntаl crowns аrе еаѕу tо сlеаn. Still, potential lеftоvеrѕ аnd bасtеriа can ассumulаtе on the dеnturе lеаding tо bаd breath, inflаmmаtiоn of thе gum аnd diѕсоlоrаtiоn оf the dental сrоwn. Thеrеfоrе it iѕ important tо knоw that whеn it comes to dеntаl сrоwnѕ or to dentures generally, the рrореr cleansing muѕt be dоnе with thе same tооlѕ оnе uѕеѕ fоr natural teeth: toothbrushes, dеntаl flоѕѕ аnd oral dоuсhе. Alѕо a professional сlеаning ѕhоuld bе dоnе аt thе dеntiѕt’ѕ every ѕix mоnthѕ, аѕ аdviѕеd.

Aррrоximаtеlу 30 million Americans аrе miѕѕing аll of their tееth in оnе оr bоth jаwѕ. If уоu аrе in thiѕ ѕituаtiоn you mау bе соnѕidеring replacing the miѕѕing tееth with dеnturеѕ оr dеntаl imрlаntѕ. Let's rеviеw thе рrоѕ аnd cons оf еасh.

Advаntаgеѕ of Dentures

• Dentures аrе lеѕѕ costly thаn implants аnd thеrеfоrе are thе mоѕt affordable орtiоn fоr ѕоmе patients.
• Mаnу people choose tо ѕtаrt with dеnturеѕ. Since they аrе lеѕѕ еxреnѕivе a patient may trу thеm оut аnd see hоw thеу feel.
• If уоu hаvе juѕt hаd teeth removed rесеntlу, starting with dеnturеѕ will allow уоur bоdу timе tо hеаl bеfоrе соnѕidеring imрlаntѕ.
• Dереnding оn thе location оf thе miѕѕing tееth, dеnturеѕ mау bе a реrfесt ѕоlutiоn. (Pаtiеntѕ оftеn find uрреr dеnturеѕ lооk gооd and аrе еаѕу tо wear.)
• Thе рrосеѕѕ tо сrеаtе thе dеnturеѕ iѕ nоn-invаѕivе. No surgery required.
• If аdditiоnаl teeth аrе lоѕt in thе futurе, it iѕ easy tо mоdifу the dentures tо ассоmmоdаtе the lоѕѕ.

Diѕаdvаntаgеѕ оf Dentures

• Thеу dо not ԛuitе look аѕ nаturаl as dеntаl imрlаntѕ.
• Thеу muѕt bе removed and thоrоughlу cleaned regularly. Many раtiеntѕ find thе cleaning оf cups and аdhеѕivеѕ undesirable because they аrе messy and expensive.
• Dеnturеѕ are nоt worn overnight.
• Sоmеtimеѕ dеnturеѕ ѕliр аrоund making it diffiсult tо ѕреаk and еаt
• Cеrtаin fооdѕ cannot be еаtеn with dеnturеѕ. Examples inсludе саrаmеl, аррlеѕ аnd corn оn thе соb.
• Thеrе’ѕ аn inсrеаѕеd riѕk of gum diѕеаѕе if food iѕ trapped bу the dеnturеѕ.
• They frequеntlу need rерlасеmеnt (every 3 to 6 уеаrѕ compared tо 20+ уеаrѕ fоr dental imрlаntѕ). Alѕо, they’ll brеаk if drорреd, rеԛuiring rерlасеmеnt.
• Pаrtiаl dentures are knоwn tо wеаkеn thе аdjасеnt nаturаl teeth that рrоvidе ѕuрроrt fоr thе dеnturеѕ.

Advantages оf Implants

• They’re еаѕу tо саrе for. Just bruѕh аnd flоѕѕ аѕ уоu do your nаturаl teeth.
• Imрlаntѕ lооk аnd feel likе nаturаl tееth since the rооt and tооth is rерlасеd.
• Implants аllоw уоu tо еаt аnу fооd inсluding things thаt аrе ѕtiсkу аnd сrunсhу.
• Dеntаl imрlаntѕ don’t аffесt ѕреесh.
• Bоnеѕ and adjacent tееth аrе рrеѕеrvеd. Furthеr deterioration iѕ not a problem. Thеу’rе less likely tо rеԛuirе futurе dеntаl procedures.
• With рrореr care, dental imрlаntѕ will lаѕt for dесаdеѕ.

Diѕаdvаntаgеѕ оf Imрlаntѕ

• Thеу саn bе expensive.
• Surgical рrосеdurе(ѕ) iѕ rеԛuirеd.

At the еnd of the dау, you’ll nееd to work with your dentist to dеtеrmin which is the bеѕt сhоiсе fоr уоur реrѕоnаl situation. Keep in mind that уоu mау dесidе tо start with dеnturеѕ аnd eventually рrоgrеѕѕ tо implant supported dentures.

One of the most controversial topics in dentistry: Fluoride

Aren't you wondering why this naturally occurring mineral is so important to your oral health???

                                                   We at Off Island Dental want you to know!!!

Plenty of people out there avoid the naturally occurring mineral. We urge you to consider the importance of  your tooth enamel when making the decision to add a little extra at your next teeth cleaning.

Occurring naturally in foods and water, fluoride helps prevent tooth decay. Every day, minerals are added (re-mineralization) and lost (demineralization) from a tooth’s enamel layer. In order to promote healthy teeth, it's important to have fluoride as a component in our daily diet.

Re-mineralization occurs when minerals such as fluoride, calcium, and phosphate are re-deposited to the enamel layer from the foods & water you consume. Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by making teeth more resistant to acid attacks caused from bad bacteria and sugar. In addition, fluoride disrupts acid production in already erupted primary and permanent teeth.

When More Fluoride Is Recommended  

Frequent Cavities: When cavities occur frequently, one or more a year, fluoride treatments are recommended.

Dry Mouth: The lack of saliva makes it harder for food particles to be washed away and acids to be neutralized. Some medications such as anti-anxiety, high blood pressure, and allergy medications can cause dry mouth.

Gum Disease: Gum disease is also called Periodontitis. When disease is present, it can expose more of your tooth and root to bacteria, causing a greater chance of tooth decay.

Dental Restorations: Dental bridges, braces, and dental crown treatments can put teeth at risk for decay. The point where the tooth crown meets the underlying tooth structure on a dental crown is more likely to harbor bacteria and cause cavities. For orthodontic treatments, the area around the brackets are more likely to develop cavities.

How Can I Get More Fluoride???
Fluoride is found in foods and water. In addition, it can be applied directly to teeth using toothpastes and mouth rinses. For a stronger strength of fluoride, a doctor’s prescription will be needed.

Fluoride Rich Foods

Cucumbers 491mcg

Grape Juice 460mcg

Spinach 329mcg

Apple Juice 170mcg

*Fluoride is safe and highly effective when used as directed but can hazardous at high levels. An individual’s weight is a factor when determining the toxic dosage level. This is why it is especially important for children to be supervised when using fluoride-containing products. Also, excessive fluoride can cause tooth defects. These defects can range from barely noticeable to cosmetically challenged discoloration. Our dentist may be able to lighten or remove these stains professionally.

           “With age comes wisdom. Specifically, wisdom tooth”

Your mouth goes through many changes in your lifetime. By the age of 18, the average adult has 32 teeth, 16 teeth on the top and 16 teeth on the bottom. Each tooth in the mouth has a specific name and function. The teeth in the front of the mouth (incisors, canine and bicuspid teeth) are ideal for grasping and biting food into smaller pieces. The back teeth (molar teeth) are used to grind food up into a consistency suitable for swallowing.

The average mouth is made to hold only 28 teeth. It can be painful when 32 teeth try to fit in a mouth that holds only 28 teeth.

 These 4 other teeth are your third molars also known as “wisdom teeth”

      1. Why are they called wisdom teeth?

     Late in the 1600’s, the idea of a common dentistry was advancing and dentists started calling them teeth of wisdom       to the public, mainly because this set of molars didn’t grow in until we are about 17 – 24 years old. The rest of our      teeth both primary and permanent form prenatally as buds. Wisdom teeth are actually the only teeth that don’t         develop until after birth.

      2. What does impacted mean?

   When a wisdom tooth is said to be impacted, that means it is blocked from fully erupting through the gums. It’s very       common- 85% of wisdom teeth being impacted. The wisdom teeth are not the only type of teeth that may become       impacted but it occurs less frequently with other types of teeth.

The level of impaction varies from patient to patient. Some patients have soft tissue impaction in which the tooth has made it through the bone but is still under the gum. Another type of impaction is when part of the tooth has erupted but part of it still stuck in the jawbone. This is known as partial bony impaction. Finally if the tooth has not erupted out of the jaw at all it is known as a complete or total bony impaction.

     3.Why are impacted wisdom teeth a problem?

Impacted wisdom teeth become a problem when they can pain or affect other teeth. When the tooth cannot erupt upwards as they are supposed to, they can push on nearby teeth. This puts pressure on those teeth and causes pain. This pressure can make the other teeth to shift to make room for the wisdom teeth that are trying to break through. This can impact your smile’s symmetry and make your teeth crooked.

Impacted wisdom teeth are also harder to clean than teeth that are fully erupted, which like in the rest of your teeth, leads to decay. The wisdom teeth are so hard to keep clean because they are in a far back and often hard to reach position in the mouth. Decay is extremely difficult to treat in the wisdom teeth, and most dentists don’t recommend it. If decay is not treated the patient runs the risk of developing infections. Infections of the wisdom teeth are serious and can be hard to treat.  

    4. How are wisdom teeth removed?

Wisdom teeth have to be surgically extracted and may involve trimming of the bone. When carefully executed by skilled and experienced doctors it is a very safe and predictable procedure. Once the patient is comfortable, regular local anesthesia is used and the teeth are carefully and delicately removed. The opening left after the extraction is sealed with stitches to avoid any bleeding and ensure healing.

    5. What I should expect after the procedure?

Since the local anesthetic lasts for a few hours after the procedure, very little discomfort is present. By taking the prescribed analgesics at the right time, most patients are able to control the discomfort associated with the procedure very well. Most bleeding is controlled during the intervention and at the end of the procedure cotton gauze's are applied to put pressure on the extraction sites. A minimal oozing is usually present for the first few hours after the surgery and the use of carefully placed cotton gauze's should be sufficient to make it stop. Recovery time as being the end of the symptom of the procedure is approximately 7-10 days. The discomfort tends to wear off after the third day and the swelling usually ends by around the 7^th day. Of course the more you ice the wound in the first 48 hours the faster the swelling disappears! For most patients, 3-7 days of analgesic and 5-7 days of antibiotics are sufficient. It is important to remember that even if you are not experiencing any symptoms you must take your medications.

Teeth Grinding Guide created by Schererville & Chesterton Family Dentistry

              “Preserve your natural teeth…...Root canals are really not as          terrifying as you may have heard…..”

        If you were recently informed that you need a root canal, chances are the minute you left your dental office, you immediately began scouring the internet for information on this well known – but highly misunderstood – dental service. The internet can be a great place to gather helpful information, but it is also plagued by unreliable sources and dangerously inaccurate information.

      The following are the common myths and misinformation about root canals and tooth pain that are prevalent online. While finding out you are in need of a root canal can be frightening, the more you know about this tooth saving procedure and what it can do for your tooth ache and oral health, the calmer and more confident you will feel when you return to the dentist’s chair.

       - You only need a root canal if you are experiencing tooth pain.

       -    Root canal treatment is painful.

       -    Root canals cause illness.

       -   The benefits of root canal therapy are temporary.

       -  Tooth extraction (pulling the tooth)  is a good alternative to root canals.

       1. What is a Root Canal?

        The central chamber of a tooth contains the living vital tissues comprising the pulp including its nerves and blood vessels.The interior of the tooth’s roots containing the pulp make up its root canals.

     2. How do I know if a tooth has a root canal infection?

         Symptoms of root canal infection may include sharp, intense pain when you bite down a dull ache or pressure or tenderness and swelling in gums near an infected tooth. There may be a lingering pain after eating cold or hot foods. However, sometimes an infected tooth may stop hurting and you no longer feel pain.This doesn’t mean the infection has gone, only that the nerve may have died. Make an appointment if you suspect that you have any or some of these symptoms.

    3. Why would a tooth need Root Canal Treatment?

        If the tissues in the root canals become infected or inflamed because of deep cavity or trauma to a tooth, root canal treatment is needed to treat the infection and save the tooth. If left untreated, root canal infection can spread into the bone immediately around the root.

    4. I’m worried about X -rays, should I be?

        No. While X -rays will be necessary during your root canal treatment, we use an advanced non- computerized system called digital radiography that produces radiation levels up to 90% lower than those of already low dose conventional dental X- ray machinery.

    5. What takes place in a Root Canal Procedure?

        After a local anesthetic is administered to numb the tooth and surrounding area, a small opening is made in the biting surface of the tooth. Dead and or dying tissue is removed from the pulp chamber and the root canals are cleaned, disinfected and sealed to prevent future infection.

    6. What can I expect afterwards?

    Your tooth may feel tender or sensitive for a few days. You can take over- the- counter non - steroidal anti- inflammatory medication, Aspirin or Ibuprofen, for example, to relieve pain or discomfort. Contact us if you have pain that lasts more than a few days. A crown is usually needed to protect the tooth following root canal treatment.Further, arrangements need to be made for the stage of the procedure. Don’t chew on the affected tooth until symptoms subside and the tooth has been restored as necessary.

   7. Would extraction be a better alternative?

     Saving your natural teeth, if possible, is the very best option. Nothing can completely replace your natural tooth. An artificial tooth can sometimes cause you to avoid certain foods, keeping your own teeth is important so that you can continue to enjoy the wide variety of foods necessary to maintain the proper nutrient balance in your diet. If your dentist recommend extraction, ask whether root canal treatment is an option.

          Root canal treatment along with appropriate restoration is a cost effective way to treat teeth with a damage pulp and is usually less expensive than extraction and placement of a bridge or an implant. Root canal treatment also has a very high success rate. Many root canal treated teeth last a lifetime. Placement of a bridge or an implant will require significantly more time in treatment and may result in further procedures to adjacent teeth and supporting tissues.

   Dr.Krinita Motwani

  Contact - +91 9820280343, +91 9819002288

  Khar West - Mumbai, India

  Email - drkrinitamotwani@gmail.com

In 2015, more than one million North Americans had braces, with females comprising 70 percent and a majority were aged 12 to 15 years old. Braces are used to correct orthodontic problems like buck teeth, crossbite, underbite, open bite, misplaced midline, spacing, crowding, and jaw joint disorders.

Braces feature brackets which usually run along a wire. The brackets and wires are then thoroughly pressed against the teeth to support minimal movements and correctly straighten and align the teeth.

However, this orthodontic treatment is heavy in the pocket with its price ranging from $5,000 to $6,000. The high cost of orthodontic treatment has led some individuals, particularly teens, into improvising their braces using readily-available materials like paper clips, earring metal stopper, rubber band, among others. According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), people aged 8 to over 60 are attempting to straighten their teeth.

A quick search on video-sharing site Youtube of “DIY braces” showed about 533,000 results. A video of a kid teaching her audience “how to make fake braces,” adding that they look so real and she is not kidding has garnered almost 2.5 million views.

But, this improvision may be costing these teens more money and danger than they have signed up. Orthodontists have raised warning on the possible harm of straightening your teeth on your own that could lead to gum irritation, teeth misalignment, and tooth loss. According to Dr. Jeffrey Kong of El Dorado Hills in his interview with Chicago Tribune, while the beautifying projects (DIY braces) might be cheap at first, they carry a risk that could ultimately cost thousand of dollars.
BC Society of Orthodontists President Todd Moore echoed Dr. Kong’s warning on the cost of DIY treatment in the future. He added that DIY braces could cause irreparable damage to teeth. “A patient wouldn’t attempt to set a broken bone on their own, so they shouldn’t try to fix structural issues either,” he added.

Moving the teeth without the proper training, materials, and examination of the teeth and gums increases the risk of infection and damage to teeth and gums that include permanent loss of teeth.

In a Youtube video which has over 410,000 views as of press time, 24-year-old singer-songwriter Brandon Andre detailed how he closed his teeth gap using elastic hair band worth $5 and placed them on his teeth daily for about six weeks. Andre admitted on experiencing soreness and bleeding. Although he considered himself lucky in his attempt to address his orthodontic problem on his own, Andre said that it might not work for everybody. “Luckily for me, I was successful and had no problems, and it changed how I felt about my image,” he said.

What is quite alarming is that Andre is not the first and only person to use elastic hair bands as “gap band.” In 2012, Youtube user Shalom DeSota created a tutorial on how to bridge the gaps between teeth using an elastic hair band. According to her, the hair band must be worn for at least a few weeks or for as long as the method takes to work. The video has over 1.2 million views.

Although elastic bands are used in dentistry to help improve the fit of the upper and lower teeth and jaws while wearing braces and also in teeth extraction, it is not advisable to use the hair bands in closing teeth gaps. “When you move a tooth, the color of the tooth might change because you are damaging the blood supply,” Dr. Juan Rendon of Jefferson Dental Clinics told Refinery29.

Aside from the color of the tooth, the “gap band” method can cause changes in the shape of the gums and severe gum inflammation and infection due to the pressure that cut off blood supply. “Gap band” can lead to bone loss, root damage and tooth loss because the gums may absorb the rubber band.

If you're in Hawaii and in need of orthodontic treatment such as braces, don't hesitate to visit Hawaii Family Dental. We are known to have the most "Best Dentist" in Hawaii by Honolulu Magazine. We have dental offices in Honolulu and the downtown area, Mililani, Ewa Beach, Aiea, Kaneohe, Kailua Kona, Hilo, Lihue, Kahului and Kihei.