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Have you never lost a tooth? Good for you because many people have lost at least one tooth: 178 million American adults have lost at least one. What’s more, 3.75 percent have none of their original adult teeth at all!

So if you want to be one of those who does keep all of her adult teeth (not including molar extractions as a young adult), read below for some tips on how you can keep all of your teeth for all of your life.Have you never lost a tooth? Good for you because many people have lost at least one tooth: 178 million American adults have lost at least one. What’s more, 3.75 percent have none of their original adult teeth at all!

So if you want to be one of those who does keep all of her adult teeth (not including molar extractions as a young adult), read below for some tips on how you can keep all of your teeth for all of your life.

1.      In addition to brushing/flossing regularly, eat crunchy fruits and vegetables after meals.

Eating an apple or carrot at the end of a meal or as a snack can act as a bit of a short tooth-brushing session. The fruit’s/vegetable’s hard flesh and skin can act as a cleanser.

2.     Eat more salmon.

Or at the least work on getting more omega-3 fatty acids in your diet. Harvard Medical School a few years ago researched federal data which tracked 9,000 people for five years and found that those who took a fish oil supplement and/or ate more fish rich in omega-3 had a 30 percent less chance of having gum disease. (Gum disease can lead to tooth loss.)

3.     Get more Vitamins D and C in your diet.

The Vitamin C can help keep your gums free of gum disease. Aim for at least 180 milligrams of the vitamin a day. A glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice should provide 80 milligrams. You also can find Vitamin C in guava, kiwi, Brussels sprouts, and green and red sweet peppers.

As for Vitamin D, studies are starting to show that people who have low levels of this nutrient are more likely to lose teeth because research is finding that the vitamin can reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth. Bacteria can form plaque, which can create cavities as well as gum disease, which – if untreated – could lead to tooth loss.

What’s more, Vitamin D has been proven to be crucial to your body’s ability to absorb calcium and calcium is essential for providing you with strong teeth and bones.

A State University of New York-Buffalo study found that individuals who ingested 800 milligrams of calcium a day were less likely to develop serious gum disease. (The federal recommendation for calcium is 600 international units [IU] per day for adults up to age 70 and 800 IUs per day for adults older than 70.)

4.     Exercise regularly.

Individuals who work out regularly have been found to come down with periodontal disease than people who are more sedentary.

It’s believed exercise helps because anything you do to keep yourself healthy helps keep your teeth and gums in good shape because people who are in poor health tend to have more tooth loss. In other words, your general health and oral health are entirely related!

Image courtesy Wenceslaus Hollar [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons.

There is a huge emphasis placed on dental care for the simple reason that a toothache cannot be tolerated beyond a certain level. Moreover the mouth is connected to various ailments that might occur in your body. This makes it extremely important to have regular check-ups and undertake a proper hygiene when it comes to dental care. Every member of the family needs to have a proper plan and a dedicated dental expert, specialized in handling the family's dental needs. Whether it is the parents, grandparents or children, every person is different, as is every dental problem. When you take care of these specific needs, your dental issues will end.

The Child's Dental Needs

For children the dentistry needs to be of a more specialized nature. To handle pediatric patients, the dentists need to undergo a few years of a more rigorous training. Children have an evolving dental need, more so since they lose their milk teeth and gain more permanent ones as they grow. Dentists look into these changes even as they provide treatment to them. The same care needs to be taken for children as well. They need to brush their teeth twice a day to make sure there is no development of plaque. The high amount of sweet drinks they consume including junk food can make it necessary for a regular check-up to be made mandatory.

Adults Need Regular Check-ups

Many adults face problems like Gingivitis which is a gum disease, cavities which require filling in, further strengthened by putting crowns wherever necessary and many other ailments which are a normal part of wear and tear. Healthy gums and teeth will ensure these problems are not of a more severe nature. Eating less of sweet food and drinks will reduce the chances of having to undergo processes like root canal. Many lifestyle diseases like diabetes or heart diseases can also be a result of unattended dental problems during these adult years. Therefore a regular professional cleaning is a must at this stage as well.

Dental Care for Elders

As age progresses, related problems occur from time to time. A good way to combat these issues as they happen is to have a dental expert look at your teeth regularly. Traditional dentures or dental implants could be applicable when there is significant damage. By taking care at these stages, you can ensure that simple problems could be eliminated. Another common ailment at this stage could be dry mouth. Treating it with home remedies like rinsing regularly and using specialized tooth paste to combat them will be a good way to ensure your dental problems are taken care of early on.

Experts recommend that children visit an orthodontist by their seventh birthday. While most patients probably won't require orthodontic treatment this early, by creating a relationship with an orthodontist, he or she can monitor your child and determine the right time to begin treatment to ensure the best results.

While orthodontic treatment can be performed at any age, we can see better outcomes at earlier ages. This is because the jaw is still growing, so it responds well to tooth movement. Early treatment can prevent the need for tooth extractions and surgeries in the future.

For some patients, treatment should begin before all of the permanent teeth have erupted. This two phase treatment will consist of a treatment phase, followed by a period of observation, and then an additional treatment phase to perfect the bite and functionality.

Orthodontists can see issues when permanent teeth start to come in, and can then use early intervention to correct crooked and misaligned teeth, as well as to preserve or create spaces for the permanent teeth to erupt. Orthodontists can also correct bite problems by guiding jaw growth, and even reduce speech problems caused by jaw issues.

It is important for parents to remember that early intervention treatment does not mean a child will not need additional work in the future. Instead, early treatment can lessen the severity of additional treatment because hopefully any problems have been made less complicated due to the early treatment.

During early orthodontic treatment, an appliance or partial braces will guide the developing jaw bones, creating a better environment for permanent teeth. In many cases, orthodontists can achieve results they otherwise wouldn't be able to achieve if the treatment is left until the jawbone has stopped growing.

By visiting an experienced orthodontist, developmental issues that could turn into future headaches can be detected and addressed before they have a chance to create even bigger issues that are harder to correct. Issues your orthodontist should look for include crowding, premature loss of baby teeth, and cross bites.

If your child is past the age of seven and you have not yet schedule a consultation with an orthodontist, your child could benefit, especially if he or she has any of the following issues:

• Baby teeth fall out too early or too late
• Difficulty in chewing
• Mouth breathing
• Extended thumb sucking, or use of a bottle or pacifier
• Crowded or misplaced teeth
• Grinding teeth
• Biting into the roof of the mouth
• Front teeth that do not meet in a normal way, or do not meet at all.

You may wonder why, if your child is seeing a family dentist twice a year, you should still schedule a consultation with an orthodontist. Quite simply, your dentist may not catch early orthodontic issues because he or she isn't trained to look for such problems. An orthodontist has specialty training and expertise that can easily identify issues that will turn into problems in the future if not properly treated.

The early phase of your child's treatment will correct bad habits, allow for proper biting, prevent a problem before it becomes serious, guide the growth of the jaw, guide permanent teeth into proper locations, and/or create a more pleasing appearance.

The second phase of treatment will then move the teeth to their proper locations, which will improve the function of the bite.

Two-phase orthodontic treatment is specialized treatment that combines straightening teeth with correcting physical changes. The goal is to take advantage of the growing jaw bone and erupting permanent teeth to create the most ideal and functional smile.

Some parents may mistakenly believe that orthodontic treatment cannot begin until all baby teeth have fallen out and the permanent teeth have erupted. This just simply isn't true, and putting off treatment for too long can actually cause more harm than good. To achieve the best and most lasting results, early, two phase orthodontic treatment is the best answer.

Porcelain veneers are often the last hope for someone who has severely damaged teeth and has exhausted all other dental options. Dental technicians create them from impressions of a patient's natural teeth that were taken by a cosmetic dentist. Porcelain replacements are then crafted and fitted over teeth that are thought to be beyond any other type of dental repair, creating a beautiful new smile.

Do you think this option is right for you? Let's evaluate who makes a good candidate for this treatment.

1. Stained Teeth

Veneers can be a lifesaver if you have stains and discoloration. If your teeth are so far damaged that regular bleaching or laser whitening are no longer options, or they did not help you to achieve the results you desired, these are an excellent alternative. Because they are shaped and shaded to match the surrounding teeth, they are just as natural in appearance as your originals.

2. Misaligned Teeth

If you are dealing with misaligned or uneven teeth, you probably feel quite embarrassed every time you are asked to smile. This can lead to low self-esteem and avoidance of social situations where others would see your mouth up close. Why hide yourself? If regular orthodontic work such as braces or retainers did not work for you in the past, ask your cosmetic dentist if these porcelain alternatives can balance out your pearly whites.

3. Chipped Teeth

Veneers work very well on people with cracked or chipped teeth. Not only do they offer the cosmetic advantage of supplementing the missing portion of the tooth and making it look much better, but the hard coating can protect the already-weakened tooth, preventing further damage.

4. Spreading Teeth

Over their lives, some people may be susceptible to embarrassing spacing between teeth that tend to grow apart. These awkward gaps are usually treated with invasive surgical procedures such as dental implants, but having porcelain veneers placed over your natural teeth can create a similar look without the excess pain or recovery time.

Remember, however, that since these porcelain options are bonded to the natural teeth, they must only be used when there is no other alternative. After all, the preparation for bonding can permanently damage your given teeth, so the treatment should only be used as a last resort.

However, for those that have the need for the treatment, it can be a godsend. Imagine living years of your life afraid of opening your mouth and then having the beautiful smile of a cover model overnight! Ask your dentist if porcelain veneers are the right option for your dental problems.

There can be different reasons for a person to have a missing tooth or teeth. As one grows old, he is expected to lose a few teeth due to poor oral care. At the same time, even young people can lose a tooth or two in their early years due to an accident. Whatever is the reason behind losing teeth, it is not easy to live a normal life without teeth and you would like to replace them with new ones if that is possible. Unfortunately teeth can not be regenerated more than once and if you are an adult with a missing front tooth or even a missing premolar, you will find it hard to live a normal life. In such a case you have to look out for the ways by while you can replace your missing teeth with an artificial one. Let us discuss more about this subject in this article.

There are two popular methods of replacing missing teeth. The first one is by using dentures and the second one is by dental implant. The first method is mostly done by aged people who have lost most of their teeth due to their age. In this case dentures are prepared for them that can help them with cutting and chewing soft and semi solid food. Dental implant is best when one or a couple of tooth needs to be replaced. The process involves different stages and can take a few months to complete. However, the results are satisfactory and once the teeth are implanted then they can be used just like natural teeth,

An important point needs to be considered carefully in case of partial tooth replacement. At times when a person develops a cavity in a tooth, then he has two options with him. He can either get it filled or else the whole tooth has to be removed. The same situation arises in case of a half broken tooth. In each of these cases the person has the option of either keeping the half tooth or replacing it permanently. It is strongly recommended to keep the tooth as far as possible as there is nothing that can make up for an original tooth. A dental implant should only be considered as an option when there is no chance of saving the original tooth; till you can save the natural tooth, there is no need to replace it with anything else.

Fact or Fiction?

You may have heard this before or even wondered yourself, but never knew for sure if it was true: do dental cleanings remove enamel? First of all, let's look at some reasons people might believe this:

• After a dental cleaning your teeth may feel different, as if something is missing.
• After a dental cleaning your teeth may feel more sensitive to hot and cold, liquids and food.
• During the cleaning you heard "scraping" sounds and maybe felt small pieces coming off.

This myth originates because we all believe what we experience. However it can be much like the story of the blind men who "looked" at the elephant. One believed an elephant was like a tree because of his thick legs, another believed an elephant was like a snake because of his trunk. Sometimes what a patient "feels" from their side of the chair is not really what is happening from the hygienist's/dentist's side of the chair.

What Does a Dental Cleaning Entail?

Let's take a look at what is really taking place during your dental cleaning:

• Your teeth feel different because plaque and calculus have been removed making your tongue feel that "something is missing". Indeed something is missing but it's not your enamel.
• Your teeth may feel more sensitive because the plaque and calculus that have covered areas of your teeth are now removed and exposes those areas to hot, cold, liquids and food. It is not because enamel is missing, it is because plaque and calculus are missing. You can be assured the sensitivity will go away.
• That scraping sound is just the hygienist using an instrument to remove plaque and calculus from your teeth. The pieces you may feel coming off are large deposits of calculus, which is plaque that has hardened and adhered to your teeth. The hygienist is not scraping the enamel from your teeth. Enamel is very hard, harder than the instruments being used and he/she is trained and skilled at using those instruments so as not to damage your teeth or your mouth in any way.

What To Do With Sensitive Teeth

If your teeth become sensitive after your cleaning, there are a few options. First of all, let your dentist and/or hygienist know! They want to keep you as comfortable as possible during all procedures and may not know that you are more sensitive. Some offices use warmed water in their dental chairs to try to keep cold sensitivity to a minimum, but not all, so let them know if you are having problems.

For sensitivity that bothers you outside of the dental office, here are some things to try:

• Over-The-Counter: For hot and cold sensitivity at home, try using a toothpaste made just for that purpose.
• Prescription: For more stubborn areas or sensitivity that just won't go away, most dental offices carry or can give a written prescription for a tooth paste that is 5% Sodium Fluoride. Ask your dentist for recommendations. **Be sure to keep prescription dose fluoride away from children. Never allow a child to use this toothpaste either. This percentage of fluoride is hazardous to their health and consuming it can be fatal for young children.**
• Dental Procedures: Sensitivity near the gum line can be caused by receding gums, which causes the root to become exposed. A fluoride varnish can be placed over your teeth by your dentist or hygienist to help with sensitivity.
• Sometimes sensitivity can also be a result of the normal "wear and tear" on your teeth. Teeth flex with every bite and can cause "abfractions" which is just a sliver of tooth that chips out at the gum line. It's not a cavity, nor does it need to be filled, but they can be filled for cosmetic reasons and if they are causing sensitivity.

Since it's hard to tell where sensitivity comes from, it's best to just consult your dentist. They don't know you are having problems unless you tell them!

Most of us know the importance of keeping our teeth clean healthy. You have teeth of various shapes and sizes in your mouth, and these are all used for different jobs. Teeth not only help us to chew food, but they also help us to talk and pronounce words correctly. They also help give our face its shape. And although it may be cosmetic, having a great smile is a great asset to have. I mean, who wants to be embarrassed to smile? So looking after your teeth just makes sense.

Looking after your teeth means having a daily 'dental health' routine. Advice from experts - such as the International Dental Foundation - recommend your daily routine should include:

· Brushing with fluoride toothpaste last thing at night and once during the day]

· Using floss or 'interdental' brushes to clean between teeth

· Having good eating habits - cutting down on sugary foods and drink

· Having you teeth checked out regularly

Most of these are well known. There are other ways however we can adopt to look after our teeth and gums and prevent tooth decay and damaging our teeth. Avoiding some (or all) of the following will certainly help:

Sodas and fizzy drinks

The combination of high sugar and high acid is bad news for teeth. Drinking soda's frequently has the result of 'soaking' your teeth in sugar, a sure way to tooth decay. The acid in the soda also helps to erode the enamel on your teeth, leading to tooth sensitivity. If soda is a must for you, then try cutting down as much as possible - thirst-quenching water is a great alternative. If you like the fizz - then just try soda water... Another tip is to sip sodas through a straw to avoid contact with the teeth.

Sports drinks

Sports drinks may help you recover quicker on the sports field, but they're similar to sodas in that they contain high amounts of sugar and acids - not so good for teeth. Opt for calorie-free water instead.

Sticky sweets and gummy candy

OK, so all candy and sweets are not considered good for your teeth, but the chewier and stickier they are, the more harmful they generally are for you. Because of their sticky nature, they are more prone to stick to the crevices between the teeth, and therefore less likely to be washed away by saliva. Be sure to brush well after eating such foods - or better still find sugar free alternatives.

Cough Drops

Cough Drops that contain sugar usually have a high content. Although they are designed for medicinal purposes, sucking on cough drops for extended periods helps cover the teeth with sugar. The risk of tooth decay and gum disease is increased as dental plaque (which includes bacteria) increases in the mouth. Opt for sugar-free cough drops.

Grinding teeth

Also known as "bruxism" grinding or clenching of the jaw affects millions of people all over the world. If is often associated with stress or is even shown to be hereditary. More often than not it occurs subconsciously at night, but can happen during the day as well. It puts pressure on the teeth and jaw and can cause pain. Wearing a mouth guard may help alleviate the pressure and protect the teeth from being worn down.

Using your teeth for purposes other than chewing and eating

Chewing, eating, smiling and speaking clearly - that's all your teeth should be used for. Anything else is a no-no. This includes opening stuff such as potato chip bags (or any other type of bag for that matter) using your teeth to 'hold' stuff if your hands are full, or anything else that brings your teeth into direct contact with hard, sharp objects. This can cause damage by chipping or fracturing teeth.

Tongue Piercings

A matter of personal preference for some, tongue piercings are highly discouraged by dentists. These items in the mouth can cause teeth to chip or crack, as well as rub up against gums and cause gum problems. Tongue piercings also encourage more bacteria to build up in the mouth - not a healthy situation for your mouth to be in. Having mouth jewellery may be trendy - but your mouth may pay a high price for it.

Sports with no mouth guard

It's always recommended to wear a mouth guard when playing contact sports. The mouth and face area are more susceptible to damage in some sports than others, (such as rugby, hockey or basketball) so wearing a mouth guard will help cushion any blows received in the mouth area and protect the teeth from damage and being knocked out.

Seniors have a special set of circumstances nobody really understands until they reach that age group themselves, from health and dental care to aches and pains to finances and transportation and a myriad of things in between. If you're a senior worrying about dental care, however, there are ways to put your mind at ease. Finding the best coverage is your first step. Here's how to accomplish that and more.

Know What You Really Need

If you have a healthy dental history, without a lot of complicated, ongoing issues, you likely only need a senior treatment plan that covers the basics, including regular checkups and cleaning visits. On the other hand, if you have dentures or any other complicated factors going on, an in-depth plan may be necessary. Either way, it's important that your coverage meets your needs without exceeding them. There's no sense in you paying for services you're not likely to ever use and it should be relatively simple for you to switch plans in the future, should the need arise.

Read Any Prospective Plan Carefully

Of course, you're a savvy, educated consumer, but that doesn't mean you should ever forgo reading the fine print. Be aware of potential waiting periods and other particulars that may inconvenience or set you back.

Also, if the plan you're considering allows you to stay with your existing dentist, make sure all procedures you may need will be covered by that office, under that specific plan. For example, a new plan may have special criteria for preexisting issues or a policy of reimbursement for costs you initially incur. Above and beyond reading the fine print, talk to the people associated with a plan you're interested in, as well as someone in your dental professional's office. Read the paperwork and list your questions, then pick up the phone and have them answered.

Plan Ahead For Your Dental Coverage

While you may not be able to predict the future, you should be prepared for it. Buying coverage in advance of needing it is wiser than waiting for a problem to emerge, particularly due to possible wait times with a new policy and not being accepted over the existing dental issues. Although regular cleaning should be available without having to wait, other services may not be.

Find a Senior Dental Care Plan That's Convenient for You

While you obviously want to take great care of your oral health, you don't want to spend hours upon hours filling out forms, waiting in an office or trying to hunt down a dental professional of your choosing. Once you've found a senior dental care plan you're happy with, check to see that your favorite dentist is part of the program, or if they're not, you can find a suitable replacement with whom you're comfortable. Your plan is nearly useless (regardless of how good it is on paper) if you're not happy with the service provider.

Remember that you're Special

All the coverage in the world won't matter if your individual needs aren't being met on a daily basis. Talk to your dentist right away if you notice anything unusual going on in your mouth, like discoloration of teeth, dry mouth, indications of tooth decay or gum disease, a diminished sense of taste or poor fitting dentures, if you have them. Invest in a small light and big mirror, so that you can clearly see how the inside of your mouth looks. Also, in the event that you suffer with any form of arthritis and it's making oral care challenging, ask for help. There are tools to make brushing easier, or it may be wise for you to visit the dentist more frequently for thorough cleanings.

Think Beyond Medicare - Way Beyond!

Unfortunately, Parts A, B and other elements of Medicare leave you high and dry with preventative dental care and basic procedures. While Medicare may cover a dental emergency, everyone is entitled to more comprehensive coverage. It's also important to note that even under emergency circumstances, you may still be left covering some of the costs yourself.

Giving yourself one less thing to worry about as a senior is indeed a reason to smile: Life is already complicated, sometimes painful and seemingly more and more expensive by the day. Find the right coverage for your needs and lifestyle, then don't give it another thought - there's far too much fun to be had.

We are taught the importance of brushing and flossing our teeth from a very young age, but more often than not, we neglect the importance of brushing our tongues because we were never taught. At my Pasadena dental office I recently overheard a child asking their mother why it wasn’t normal to clean their tongue too when brushing their teeth. Not only did this make me realize that I needed to share more about brushing your tongue with my patients, but others as well. Cleaning your tongue should be a part of your daily routine, and here is why:

Bacteria Like to Live on Your Tongue

A certain type of bacteria called biofilm makes up a large amount of the bacteria in your mouth. Like bacteria around your teeth, biofilm contributes to creating other oral health problems for your mouth, teeth and gums. Biofilm lives on your tongue in the spaces and ridges you cannot see. Mouthwash alone will not remove these bacteria, which is why it’s important to brush your tongue.

Have Bad Breath? Try Brushing Your Tongue

Did you know that many people who suffer from bad breath only have this issue because of the bacteria build up on their tongue? Brushing your tongue to get rid of the biofilm will create a healthier, fresher environment for your teeth. It will also help with the embarrassment and strain bad breath puts on your social life. Simply removing this layer of bacteria will reduce your bad breath significantly.

The Link Between Brushing Your Tongue and Cavities

Without the issue of bad breath, is it still important to brush your tongue? Absolutely! The bacteria left behind on your tongue when it isn’t brushed contributes significantly to the growth of bacteria on your teeth, which can cause cavities and tooth decay. The bacteria will erode the enamel on your teeth, and will make them susceptible to decay and other problems such as gum disease. Rather than dealing with these problems down the road, you can add about 30 seconds to your daily routine to brush your tongue and reduce the amount of bacteria present.

The Details of Tongue Brushing

Understanding how brushing your tongue is important is the first step, but you may be wondering how to brush your tongue properly. There are a few different tools you can use.

1. Toothbrush – Many who brush their tongues choose to just use their toothbrush to remove the bacteria from the area like they would their teeth. In order to use a toothbrush on our tongue, you just need to stick out your tongue as far as possible and brush it. Some also like to use toothpaste and mouthwash in the process as well.
2. Scraper – A scraper is simply just a flat plastic tool used for brushing your tongue. With a scraper, the best thing for a clean tongue is to start from the back of your tongue and work your way forward. A scraper lacks bristles that a toothbrush has, so it may be harder to reach certain areas a toothbrush could.
3. Cleaner – A cleaner is a great tool for tongue brushing because like a scraper, it is flat and plastic, but like a toothbrush it has bristles. It combines the best of each other tool. However, the bristles on a cleaner are rubber.

You can easily tell when you are successfully removing the bacteria from your tongue, because the white residue on the area will slowly disappear.

Our Pasadena dentist and staff can help you learn even more about the importance of brushing your tongue and ridding your mouth of bacteria. We can also help you with any other dental related questions you may have. 

Tooth loss can happen for a number of different reasons, but one of the most common reasons for tooth loss amongst young people is accidents in sports. Some American dentists estimate that up to 4 out of 10 of the patients that they see who have experienced tooth loss have fallen victim to this issue because they have been involved in a sporting accident. It is hardly surprising when you consider the physical nature of football and basketball, and the high speeds involved with baseball and softball. The best option for many of those who have been unfortunate enough to suffer dental accidents is to have dental implants to replace their missing teeth.

Although there are a number of different replacement options available, dental implants have a lot of positives attached to them, which can be considered within a sporting context. Implants are fixed in position and it is not normally possible for the individual to remove them without professional help. This contrasts with other options, such as dentures and removable bridges. Although these are generally safe to wear, some people do worry about wearing removable teethwhilst they are playing sports, because there is an increased risk that these could become loose and end up being swallowed. This is not a concern with a permanent, fixed solution.

Sports people are also excellent candidates for dental implants, because of their healthy lifestyles. Those who play sports tend to eat less sugary substances, so there is normally less concern about serious underlying oral health issues. Many sports people also have better bone density as well, which means that their implants will take well and sit securely in the jaw bone. Certain types of dental implants are unsuitable for some candidates who have low bone density, because the jaw bone simply will not be able to support the implants. This is less likely to be a concern for active sportspeople.

Having implants can help sportspeople to maintain their healthy lifestyle and reduce the amount of downtime that is associated with injuries. Some people who suffer from tooth loss and who do not take action can experience nutritional issues, and wider oral health issues. Missing teeth can affect what people eat, because they choose different foods for comfort and ease. As a sports person, it is important to maintain a healthy diet, and changing what you eat can affect the way that you play. Even some denture users experience this issue, as some foods are very uncomfortable to eat whilst wearing dentures. You are also likely to change the way that you chew, which can cause unnatural strain on your other teeth and gums, and can cause pain in the jaw bone. Jaw bone pain can cause headaches and some neck strain issues. It is possible to eat all foods with great ease when you have dental implants.

A perfect smile is priceless. Dentists globally have gone out of their way to ensure that more and more people get to take pride in their teeth. Crowns and bridges have proved to be worthwhile investments in the field of dentistry over the years.

Regardless of the nature of your tooth problem - fractured, weak, discolored or unevenly spaced out - with the right dental advice and care, it is possible to get it fixed depending on your needs. Having a crown or bridge can do the trick for you.

CROWNS

Well, first and foremost, it is important to understand what a crown is. In lay man's language, it is simply a cap for a spoilt tooth. Crowns come in various materials to suit your needs, ranging from porcelain to ceramic. They are made to provide individualized satisfaction.

On the other hand, it is important to get the right crown and the right color to complement your natural smile. Crowns also come made from metals such as gold or silver. If you are one of those bold and adventurous guys, a golden tooth can really do you good.

BRIDGES

Uneven spaces between dentition are a recipe for a bad bite. Bridges keep the teeth in shape and prevent the good teeth from losing shape by growing into the already existing space.

Similar to crowns, bridges come in variety with porcelain and ceramic bridges being the most common. Getting the right kind of dental attention and having the right bridges fitted is the sure way to go.

ADVANTAGES

Caring for your teeth goes a long way when it comes to health. Crowns and bridges form an essential part of dental care and there is need to take a focused interest in their use. One would wonder why the emphasis on such, but the truth of the matter is that they provide a lasting solution to your dental problems.

Here are a few of their advantages:

1. Crowns are permanent hence no need to frequently visit your dentist for reviews. Similarly, bridges are permanent and provide a lifetime solution to your problems.

2. Use of crowns and bridges adds aesthetic value to your overall look by restoring the perfect dentition, giving you a one of a kind smile.

3. Taking care of crowns and bridges is simple; all you need is to wash your teeth thoroughly to avoid plaque formation.

It is important to care for your teeth at all times. Your smile will have a lot of impact in your life including career development, social life and your general well-being. Therefore when there is the need to get a crown or a bridge do not hesitate. It is a decision you will not reg

Hiding your smile from the world just because of the structure of your teeth is not something that you should be doing. There are so many things that can make your teeth look like those of a toothpaste model. Porcelain crowns, inlays and onlays come in handy in this part of dental care. When installed by an expert dental practitioner, you can be sure that you will not be hiding your smile anymore.

Porcelain crowns, onlays and inlays

Simply put, porcelain dental crowns are used to protect a tooth when it needs complete coverage. Crowns usually come in a variety of forms depending on the material used to make them. They can be made from porcelain and ceramic. Porcelain crowns are, however, the most common options that you will find in the market.

Onlays and inlays are very similar. The main difference between them is how much surface they are covering. With onlays, the chewing surface of the tooth is covered. The onlay extends beyond the cusps of the tooth. These two are more like porcelain fillings. However, to achieve the desired effect, they must be installed by a professional dentist. This way, you will avoid spending money and time going to and from the dental clinic.

Which is the best option?

One reason why it is important to seek professional help is so that you can select the best option for your teeth. Porcelain crowns usually give such a natural look to damaged teeth. When you smile, people will not think your teeth are unnatural. Quite on the contrary, they will not even notice that you have crowns installed to protect your teeth.

Dental crowns are usually used if a tooth suffers extensive damage. For example, if a tooth is severely chipped, fractured or completely broken, then porcelain crowns are the best option for you. However, if the damage is not as severe, then you will find that onlays or inlays work perfectly in restoring the beauty of your smile. These two are more conservative options that will fit into a tooth just like a filling.

Inlays usually fit in between the cusps of the tooth while the onlays are fitted over one or more cusps. These two dental restorative treatments also allow a patient to retain the natural structure of their teeth. You will not find yourself running your tongue over a particular tooth time and again because it feels unnatural.

How long do they last?

There are several types of crowns available for your selection. They can also be matched with the specific color of your teeth permitting for a restoration that looks totally original. Normal dental care - brushing andflossing daily - will ensure the durability of the crowns is maintained. Usually dental crowns last for an average of 15 years.

The Medispa Industry

Medical spas, also called medispas, are an increasingly popular way for patients to receive everything from facials to injectables.

Despite the growth of the industry and the demand for these procedures, there has also been increasing concern about an overall lack of regulation and oversight faced by medispas. Media personalities and high-profile people like Dr. Oz have warned the public about going to medispas, saying they need to be vigilant when choosing a facility.

The question for medispa staff members and owners is to determine how they can make their facilities as safe as possible for patients to quell negative stereotypes and provide the very best care.

1.Learn and Adhere to OSHA Standards

Since medispas, in general, are a relatively new concept that infuse elements of medical and spa treatments, many operators may not be aware of all OSHA standards to which they’re expected to comply. If there is an OSHA violation that’s discoveredupon inspection it can result in significant fines for a medispa—usually, these fines begin at around $1,500, but depending on the issue can go up to $7,500. Medispas can not only avoid these penalties but also create a safer environment by gaining a thorough understanding of OSHA regulations, implementing them and training all staff members.

2. Train All Medical Staff

Training is critical in any medical environment, and this certainly holds true for medispas. Invest the time and money necessary to train both licensed physicians and non-physicians to adhere to a strict set of ethical and safety standards. Make sure that not only everyone is trained comprehensively, but that training is ongoing.

3. Follow HIPAA Standards

As well as OSHA standards there is another set of federal regulations thatmedispas must follow, and that’s HIPAA. Make sure all communications, technology, and staff members are up-to-date on current HIPAA standards and practices to mitigate associated risks and liability.

4. Be Prepared for Unexpected and Emergency Situations

People in the healthcare industry are generally highly trained in dealing with any and all types of emergency or unexpected situations. Professionals in the medispa industry should take the same measures to put emergency guidelines and protocols in place. While emergencies are uncommon in these situations, they do occur.

5. Learn the Standards for Medical Waste Disposal

Central to most medispas is the use of sharps, including a variety of needles and injectibles supplies. Medispas should learn the federal and state guidelines that mandate how this waste is disposed of, to prevent not only potential health hazards but also fines that occur as a result of violations.

An Expanding Industry

According to research compiled by the American Academy of Dermatology Association, the worldwide medical aesthetics market will reach $4 billion by 2017.  The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reported there were nearly 12 million minimally invasive procedures on patients in 2010 with 5.4 million of those being the injection of botulinum toxins. 1.8 were soft tissue fillers, and 1.1 million were chemical peels. This level of growth makes it imperative to develop and implement a vigilant patient health and safety strategy in medispas. 

Walnut Hill Dental Group   Dentist Pasadena  is understanding and sensitive to your dental fears or anxiety. We want you to know that we are always here for you, and will handle your anxiety by doing whatever it takes to make you comfortable. We even offer two types of sedation dentistry to relieve you of your worry during your visits. Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas is used to relax you for your procedures to make getting help easier. We also offer oral sedation, which is in pill form, as an option as well. Using sedation will help ease your mind, and is available for all treatments. Too often I see new clients come in after avoiding treatment because of previous bad experiences at other offices without knowing our team can provide the solution to their fear. Now those clients are enjoying their dental visits by virtually sleeping through them without any pain or worry at all. Let the best dentists in Pasadena help you get out of pain."

In the last 15 years there have been many advances in cosmetic dentistry. Now dentists have a number of good techniques and procedures that can improve the look of your smile.  Just about anyone can have a beautiful and natural looking smile utilizing materials that are longer lasting and stronger than ever.

invisalign Pasadena

One of the most interesting has been the advent of veneers. Veneers are very thin shells of porcelain or other composite material that are bonded to the front of the teeth. They are less expensive than crowns and are one of the more conservative approaches in that they offer the opportunity to change the shape and color of teeth with minimal removal of tooth structure. Patients who have gaps between their front teeth or teeth that are worn from grinding or chipped may consider veneers.

Crowns Pasadena

However, there are many instances in which they are not appropriate. When a tooth needs to be changed significantly in shape and form, usually a crown is required. The crown is a porcelain jacket that covers the entire tooth and requires a moderate amount of tooth structure removal. If a tooth is cracked, it is a serious condition and does usually require a crown.  Given proper care, your crowns can last a lifetime.

Crowns and veneers are a common aesthetic solution to greatly improve your smile that may help you avoid braces or other orthodontics.  Although we can use orthodontic treatment to move permanent teeth to improve aesthetics. By using veneers and crowns, we can often avoid fitting you with braces or other appliances, and provide you a new smile in one tenth of the time.

Implants Pasadena

Missing teeth are a problem that many of us live with every day. However, with the recent very significant advances in dental implant technology, we can make amazing changes in the appearance of your smile. Dental implants allow us to replace the teeth in a natural looking and long-lasting way. Implants are designed to give you teeth that function, look and feel like natural teeth. Click here to learn more about implants.

Bridges

Bridges which replace teeth by attaching prosthetic teeth to crowns on normal teeth have been around for a long time. Bridges still work well in many situations. It is permanently cemented in place and is not removable. Removable partial dentures are an approach that we rarely use.

Snap-On Smile®

A new approach called the Snap-On Smile® is providing excellent aesthetics and function with a great deal of comfort. removable arch that literally snaps over your own teeth . Those who have an old-fashioned removable partial denture and want a beautiful, more comfortable alternative, and the cost is very reasonable. It’ it a good solution for anyone who is frightened of drilling or  can’t commit to the time and expense of veneers. It is a great way to get a very photogenic smile for a special event like a wedding.

The popularity of silver fillings has been increasing over the years. They are highly favoured options among many individuals. The benefits of installing this filling are just so many. It is one of the oldest forms of dental fillings that are available for your selection. The silver amalgam fillings are popular because they offer a lasting solution to various dental problems such as dental cavities and decay. Silver fillings are basically a mixture of several metals including mercury, silver, tin and copper. Mercury makes up about fifty percent of the amalgam. It is used to bind the metals together providing that strong, hard and durable filling.

How safe are silver amalgam fillings?

The safety of dental amalgam fillings has been called to question for a long time. Mercury has the potential of causing a lot of damage when it is ingested. So why should it be used to make dental amalgam fillings? This is because the mercury that is in dental amalgam is not poisonous at all. When mercury is combined with the metals mentioned above its nature changes. It is practically harmless. On top of that, the mercury that is released into the mouth under the pressure of grinding and chewing is so small. It should not be a cause for alarm at all. As a matter of fact it is by far less than the mercury people are exposed to in food, water and air.

Benefits of amalgam

Perhaps the main benefit of silver amalgam filling is the strength that it has to offer. If there is a dental filling that is strong then it has to be the silver amalgam. This has been in use as a dental solution for a very long time now- more than one hundred years. Tooth decay and mechanical damage to teeth does not have to be such a problem while you can access this fantastic treatment method.

Secondly, you can always trust silver amalgam to last for a very long time. Unlike most other dental fillings, this solution lasts for very long. You can keep the silver for more than thirty years without needing to do anything to it. The durability of silver amalgam fillings makes them a very popular choice among patients.

Alternatives to dental amalgam

There are several alternatives to silver amalgam fillings. They include composite resins, porcelain and cast gold restorations. The thing with these alternatives is that they are very expensive. Gold and porcelain restorations for instance take a long time to make and need as many as dental appointments. The porcelain and composite resins do take some time to install. They are aesthetically appealing but they are not nearly as durable as silver amalgam.

Oral hygiene is part of daily grooming, and clean teeth are an important part of one's body. Keeping your teeth intact may necessitate the need to adopt artificial implants. Crowns are a perfect example of such implants.

Crowns are protective of teeth. They are like caps that are meant to protect the broken or decayed tooth. The list of dental implants in use is so long and cannot be enumerated on paper, but crowns form one of those that are commonly used and go a long way when it comes to adding aesthetic value to your teeth.

Crowns are made from a variety of materials such as porcelain, and they are meant to cover the visible portion of your tooth up to the level of the gum. Picture it as more or less armor or a shield that protects your teeth from damage.

Crowns are suitable for both adults and kids, and they have myriad advantages, especially when it comes to the kids.

KIDS

Crowns safeguard a child's milk teeth from decay, especially when maintaining oral hygiene is a problem. In addition to this, they save the stress of having a damaged tooth frequently being filled or worked on by the dentist. This reduces the risks of subjecting the child to anesthesia.

When it comes to children, having a crown made of steel is fairly okay, but one made from stainless steel is a better option. Essentially, protection against plaque, bacteria that grow on the teeth, works best with the stainless steel crowns.

ADULTS

Importance of having a crown goes a long way to giving you a perfect dentition to complement your looks. Crowns are also a great way to align your dentition as they can be used to cover teeth that are not of the right shape. They also provide a better alternative to dental bridges.

On the other hand, crowns also go a long way in protecting other dental implants and can also hold a dental bridge in place. In addition to these, crowning is important, secondary to other dental procedures, as it re-enforces the longevity of fillings while protecting the filled teeth.

Crowns not only maintain the general appearance of the teeth, but also contribute to the regeneration of the teeth by protecting them from wear and tear which warrants improved strength of the teeth.

The list to the benefits of crowns is endless. However, the whole idea of having a crowned tooth or crowned teeth is focused on 3 s':

• Shape

• Strength

• The size of the teeth.

These are the main contributors to healthy teeth and improving the general appearance of teeth. The answer to your question on whether or not crowns are the best implants for you is yes. Crowns are the very best the market has to offer.

One thing that most people fail to recognize is the fact that teeth are an asset. This statement is subject to opinion, therefore every man or woman can speak for themselves. However, having the perfect kind of teeth goes a long way when it comes to boosting your overall confidence.

Teeth whitening is a procedure that truly serves as a testimony to the dynamism that is the field of dentistry. Over time, teeth whitening has become one of the most common procedures performed by dentists, and now dentists have gone further to ensure you can do it at home at your own convenience.

Discoloration of teeth comes from a variety of sources such as ingestion of high amounts of fluorides, tetracycline or certain drugs such as cannabis. The source of discoloration is not the priority now, but how to sort out your discoloration issues is the focus.

AT THE DENTIST

Getting professional help for any kind of dental problem is important. When it comes to whitening, it is important to seek dental advice first, before going into the procedure, as there are many factors to consider like the amount of bleach to use so as to get the perfectly white teeth.

There are different kinds of procedures that a dentist can do to warrant you nice, clean, white teeth. The choice entirely depends on the extent of damage and the amount of correction desired. Just to mention, some of the procedures done by the dentists include:

• Light accelerate bleaching

• Internal bleaching

• Teeth bleaching

The nature of the procedure entirely depends on the damage to your teeth.

AT HOME

There are always other alternatives to teeth whitening that are less invasive and may be more comfortable for you. Well, seeing a dentist prior to taking up a home remedy for your whitening needs can guarantee a smooth process on your part.

Dentists have gone further to ensure they provide cheap and affordable solutions to the problem of discolored teeth. Some of the solutions to teeth whitening currently available in the market include use of:

• Chewing gums

• Toothpastes

• Gels

There are other alternatives to medical help for your do it at home teeth whitening. Looking into the use of natural products would prove beneficial for you. However, the expected results are subject to opinion and a question that needs extensive research.

Apples and carrots have proven to greatly contribute to strengthening teeth and have proven to be invaluable to the general state of healthy teeth.

Teeth whitening are a procedure that has gained popularity over time. Owing to the fact there are cheaper and less invasive alternatives, over time, it has become the best option when it comes to discolored teeth.

Now that you are informed, there is no need to worry about your discolored teeth. Getting the right help is an investment that is worth your time and money.

Discolored teeth can be a real nuisance and a source of emotional pain in terms of low self-esteem. Teeth whitening, also known as bleaching is a procedure done by dentists all over the world. It is a great solution to the problem of discolored teeth.

Depending on the level of discoloration, whitening may be a home based procedure or it may necessitate that you pay your dentist a visit. There are many alternatives available for your own 'do it at home' whitening. Gels, rinses, strips and toothpaste that help you sort out this problem.

The basis of teeth whitening or bleaching is the use of hydrogen peroxide, which is corrosive by nature. Hydrogen peroxide is an important reagent for the removal of stains and for this reason, it is ideal to whiten your stained teeth.

Toothpaste, gels, strips and rinses contain only mild to moderate amounts of peroxide and therefore it takes quite some times for the effects of the whitening to be seen. This demands a lot of patience from your side.

There are other alternatives to home based whitening, like visit your dentist and getting a bleaching procedure done. Zoom! In-office whitening is one of the most recent procedures invented in the world of dentistry and it is a great way to sort out your discolored teeth.

Visiting your dentist for your whitening needs is a great way to go. It is easier and more rewarding since you receive professional advice and services. A procedure like Zoom! In -office whitening leaves your teeth up to 8 shades lighter yet it takes only 45 minutes.

There is more to teeth whitening than what meets the eye. Therefore, it is important to consult your dentist even when you opt for home remedies.

On the brighter side, whitening is essential when it comes to personal grooming. It restores the once lost confidence and it is a great way to relive your younger days when you did not have to worry about discolored teeth.

On the other hand, it is important to know what causes teeth discoloration because ultimately prevention is better than cure. Some of the common things that cause teeth discoloration include:

• Nicotine found in cigarettes

• Too much caffeine

• Tetracycline antibiotics during childhood

• Too much fluoride

• Poor oral hygiene

Having discolored teeth should not be a headache. It a common thing experienced by many people all over the world. All you need is to get information and to make the right choices in terms of what is the right kind of treatment that suits your need.

Teeth whitening is a painless yet worthwhile procedure, one that you can never regret. All you need is to walk into a dental clinic and watch your smile transformed.

Although it does not have the lengthy track record of metal braces, Invisalign has emerged as a viable alternative to the old standby. Introduced in the year 2000, the transparent teeth straightening system has been winning new converts ever since. But could it ever really replace dental braces? Let's find out!

Tale Of The Tape

If this were a boxing match, picking a winner wouldn't be easy. Both systems do an excellent job of straightening crooked smiles; they just go about it in different ways. As we all know, dental braces use wires, tiny rubber bands, and metal brackets to pull unruly canines, molars, and incisors into place. Invisalign, on the other hand, uses clear plastic aligner trays that gently move teeth into their proper positions. How do they compare on key points?

Comfort

Even after you get used to them, dental braces can irritate, scratch, even cut the inside of your lips. Smooth, plastic aligners are, by comparison, far more comfortable. When properly fitted and used, they should not cause any oral irritation.

Price

Although they both cost about $5,000 for the average patient, there are some cases where metal models are considerably less expensive. But since the price of Invisalign is set by the manufacturer, the cost has remained consistent since its introduction.

Effectiveness

While it is true that both options are effective for most patients, dental braces are superior for complex cases. If, for instance, a patient has serious spacing or crowding issues, orthodontists generally recommend metal models.

Aesthetics

While it's true that some folks prefer a metallic smile, most patients prefer models that aren't as noticeable. Although they can be spotted close up, Invisalign is widely considered the far more attractive option. We should also mention that clear plastic aligners don't get food stuck in them like traditional models.

Maintenance

Dental braces can be adequately cleaned through regular brushing alone. Because plastic aligners get dirty from normal use, they should be brushed and rinsed in lukewarm water on a daily basis. Generally speaking, it takes more time to care for the latter because it requires an extra step.

Treatment Time

Because you must remove the aligners before eating and drinking anything (except water), patients wear Invisalign for an hour or two less than braces each day. As for the total treatment time, both systems take an average of about two years to achieve the desired results.

Dental Appointments

Another area where these two systems are more or less the same is in the dental visits department. Both require patients to see their dentists or orthodontists every month to six weeks. The only real difference is that the plastic aligners rarely require much, if any, adjustment during these visits. The same cannot be said for metal models, which generally have to be adjusted each and every visit.

Conclusion

The choice of a tooth straightening system really does come down to personal preference. Both options we discussed today can get the job done. It is up to you to decide which one is right for you based on your individual preference.