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Teeth are lost because of trauma or disease. Trauma may come in the form of an accident or excessive biting forces. Disease is generally tooth decay or periodontal disease [gum disease] but there are other categories such as cancer and various neoplasm's of the jaw that may result in tooth loss. Studies show that more than 50% of the population have one or more missing teeth. Trauma commonly causes the loss of a single front tooth. The effect this has on a persons' well being is obvious. Fortunately an experienced dental implantologist can usually remove the remaining root, place a dental implant, and secure a new tooth to that implant in one visit of an hour or two. The loss of a single tooth in the back is usually caused by tooth decay or periodontal disease. Sometimes this can be treated just like front teeth but for various reasons it is often more time consuming.

More often than not the treatment for a single missing back tooth is as follows: 

1. Extraction of the damaged tooth and grafting of the root sockets. Wait 4 months then
2. Placement of a dental implant to replace the root of the single missing tooth. Wait 4 to 6 months then
3. Placement of an abutment on the dental implant and record taking for the fabrication of a crown to replace the single missing tooth. Wait 3 weeks then
4. Permanent attachment of the abutment to the implant and cementation of the crown to the abutment. TREATMENT COMPLETE

The need for replacing a single missing tooth in the back is often times not as intuitively obvious as the need for replacing a single missing tooth in the front; but it is important. Teeth are very movable. We've all witnessed an Orthodontist putting tension on a tooth with a small rubber band and moving it where ever he wants. Each tooth in the mouth has a position and a purpose. When there is a single missing tooth the body's natural reaction is to drift adjacent teeth into the void that is created. Over time a single missing tooth may actually cause a change in the position of every other tooth in the mouth. Malocclusion may then develop contributing to TMJ [tempromandibular joint] dysfunction, headaches, muscle spasms in the neck and shoulders, food impaction between teeth, tooth decay, periodontal disease, and other problems. Because these problems don't always develop and because they may occur years after the single tooth is lost, people often times don't associate the loss of their tooth to the problems it caused. It is a shame that a single missing tooth is frequently ignored in light of the possible consequences but the development of dental implants for the replacement of a single missing tooth is encouraging many more people to seek early treatment.

Multiple missing teeth usually follows a single missing tooth. Each time a tooth is lost and not replaced it accelerates the process of losing more teeth. As multiple teeth are lost all of the problems associated with a single missing tooth are exaggerated. But there are additional concerns as well. Those would include but not be limited to:

1. Collapse of vertical dimension- As multiple back teeth are lost the mouth loses their support when we close causing the chin to get closer to the nose. This has the effect of deep folds at the corner of the mouth and thinning of the lips. It can easily age a persons' appearance by 10 to 20 years.
2. Collapse of facial structure-As multiple back teeth are lost facial support of the cheeks is lost causing a sunken in look. Once again the result is premature aging.
3. Bone loss- The bones of our upper and lower jaws have only one natural purpose; the support of our tooth roots. When the roots are lost the bone begins to melt away much as a muscle does that is not used. This results in further lose of facial support and can make the wearing of artificial prosthetics such as dentures impossible. It can also make the placement of dental implants more challenging.
4. Inability to chew foods properly-The mouth is the first in a series of organs designed to assimilate and digest foods. The more thoroughly we can chew the food the better the whole system works. Mom wasn't wrong when she admonished all of us to chew our food more slowly and thoroughly.
5. Inability to eat a healthy diet-As more and more teeth are lost it becomes increasingly difficult to eat a balanced diet. Important staples such as raw vegetables and nuts become impossible to eat and we lose out on the many vitamins and minerals they provide.
6. Inability to eat the foods we enjoy-Corn on the cob, ribs, steaks, fajitas, etc. become impossible to eat. Many people don't know how much being able to eat what they want means to them until it's too late.
7. Embarrassment-There is a social stigma associated with missing teeth. Many people simply quit smiling or hide their smiles with their hands. That is unfortunate because we know of very few people who lost their teeth because they wanted to. Each person has their own story and all of them or sad.

These are but a few of the problems that people face because of single and multiple missing teeth. Now, dental implants offer amazingly simple and dependable solutions. Dental implants for single missing teeth or multiple missing teeth are artificial roots made of titanium that replace the roots of natural teeth. For a single missing tooth one implant is placed and a crown is attached to it. The result is a natural looking tooth that functions and works just like the natural tooth that was replaced. Many people think that with multiple missing teeth that one dental implant is required to replace each tooth; that is not usually the case. For example if three teeth in a row are missing it is often possible to replace them with only two dental implants and a fixed bridge between them. With the amazing All on 4 protocol and entire arch [16 teeth] can be replaced with only four implants and a fixed bridge.

The placement of a dental implant is usually quick and almost painless for those who are candidates. One requirement is an adequate quantity and quality of bone. As mentioned previously when a tooth is extracted the bone that once secured its' root begins to melt away. Some studies indicate that up to 40% of the bone volume in that area may be lost in the first twelve months. Modern dentist with an understanding of oral surgery and implants place materials in the sockets where the tooth roots were to prevent this from happening. The result is a healthy site for the future placement of a dental implant. Dentist with a more advanced understanding of dental implants may actually place an implant into the socket when the tooth is extracted. When this can be achieved it is the best and simplest solution for preventing bone loss. But because many dentist do not understand dental implants and the protocols necessary for preserving bone, and because many patients take a cavalier approach to the loss of a tooth, sometimes there is a need for an implant but not adequate bone to support it. Modern implant designs minimize this as do implant placement protocols such as those of the All on 4 technique but they cannot eliminate the occasional need for more bone.

When there simply must be more bone, bone regeneration procedures are required. This normally incorporates one of many different types of materials that replace the lost bone volume and encourage the formation of new bone. With the advent of stem cell and bone morphogenic enhanced materials this has become far simpler and more predictable. What once required a maxillofacial and an orthopedic surgeon in a hospital setting can now be predictably performed by a well trained dental surgeon in his office. Once this new bone has matured, usually 4 to 6 months, a single or multiple tooth replacement dental implant can be placed just as predictably as if the graft had not been required.

Single Dental Implant Procedure:-

Steps for placement of a single dental implant in the site of a single missing tooth

• After conscious sedation is administered the placement site of the single missing tooth is infiltrated with local anesthesia.
• A small incision is made in the soft tissue covering the bone in the single missing tooth site and an osteotomy is prepared. An osteotomy is the same thing as a pilot hole made prior to the placement of a screw in wood. Once the osteotomy is completed a single dental implant is threaded into it. Now we have a man made root where the natural root was. Just like a natural root this dental implant is beneath the gums and in the bone and cannot be seen in the mouth. A piece called an abutment is screwed into the single dental implant. The abutment provides the transition from the dental implant beneath the gums to a tooth above the gums. Impressions are taken of the abutment and they are sent to a dental laboratory
• In about three weeks a crown is returned from the laboratory and it is secured to the abutment with glue [cement]. You now have a new tooth that looks, functions, and feels just like a natural tooth.

Dental implants for the replacement of single missing teeth and multiple missing teeth have become as routine for dental implantologist as fillings are at your family dentist. For those with single missing teeth they offer an exceptional replacement solution that can help prevent future problems. For those who have lost multiple teeth or all of their teeth dental implants can give them back their smile, confidence, and self esteem. It can truly give them a second chance.

Dentistry, like other medical practices must be given ample encouragement to make it an effective as well as a lucrative option for dental healthcare professionals. With the internet emerging as the most influential medium in the last couple of years, most businesses are making desperate efforts to make an impressive online presence. Undoubtedly, in today's tough marketing scenario, without a considerable web-presence no company would even stand a chance against its competitors.

Today almost every other type of commodity can be found online - be it food, clothing, automobiles and so on. Why not dentistry? According to recent trends, online dental marketing is fast finding favor with dental professionals. 1-800-DENTIST the nationally recognized marketing base for dental practitioners in the US in its recent announcement indicated the growing trend of online referrals in dentistry. Further they expect that about 8 million consumers will access dental websites this year to look for dentists, to fix up an appointment, or to check relevant dentists' information. This alone validates the importance of having dental websites for dentists.

Now the most important question is how to boost your dental profession using innovative web-designs. Well, adding mileage to your online profile is not a simple task. Professional expertise is required to make dental websites effective. One primary task before designing dental websites is to conduct a comprehensive research online. After a preliminary search with keywords and key-phrases like "dental", "dentist","dental service" or "dentistry", you will get a comprehensive list of websites, most of which are either offering dental services or acting as referral to dentists. There are also outright marketing sites selling cheap oral healthcare products. All these exposure is required to sketch a blue-print of your dental website. With this first-hand knowledge, you will get a good idea on what is there to offer and hence you will understand what "more" to add while designing dental websites.

Today, finding relevant information on the World Wide Web is just a few clicks away - dentistry is no exception. To make your dental website stand out among thousands of other sites, a good design together with an equally impressive online marketing strategy is of utmost importance. If you happen to be a dental practitioner and wish to have your own site in place, consult an expert web designer to design your online portfolio. The homepage being the most visible part of the website, special care must be given while designing it.

Dental sites feature specific content which are directly related to dentists and dentistry. Therefore while designing, the content must be customized accordingly in order to draw more traffic to the dental websites. Design of the website, thus, stands out as being one of the most important factors in an effective dental marketing strategy.

For anyone looking for a job within a dental surgery, dental recruitment agencies represent the most obvious route to achieving success. For dental surgeries looking for dental professionals the most obvious and traditional route is also to advertise through dental recruitment agencies. But there are two main problems with this solution. Effectively the two real issues are time and money.

For those looking for dental vacancies in the UK the usual route is to enrol with a dental recruitment agency, provide your details and CV, and then sit back and wait. Depending upon the networking ability of the agency you could hear something back in a few days, or many weeks or months could go by. The trouble is that agencies have little motivation for working for you specifically, and they may well find themselves filling vacancies the easiest way, with less regard for individual needs.

With an agency you have no idea of what's happening, and you have little or no control over your success. Once you have enrolled and submitted your documentation then there's little you can do to expedite the process. But compared to posting copies of your CV to all local dental surgeries in the hope of a job being available, it's the easiest and best choice people have had, until now.

It's much the same picture from the point of view of the surgeries themselves. Because if they have a vacancy to fill it will be important for them to fill it quickly, and with the best person for the job. This necessarily means approaching dental recruitment agencies, but this can be an expensive process, costing hundreds or even thousands of pounds a year in recruitment agency fees. This expense can eventually limit the number of agencies surgeries approach, and the length of time adverts are placed with them. It also often means that dental surgeries will request details of a much lower number of potential candidates, in order to save both time and further fees.

Recruitment agencies themselves are often swamped with dental vacancies across the UK, as well as reams of applications from potential candidates. The process of doing background checks, qualification verifications and entering data into the computer as well as cross referencing candidates with available jobs and sending out letters of communication to both parties is time consuming. Time and money have been the real problems for all parties. But today a new solution is available which instantly solves both problems, removing the issue of time and removing the problem of money.

The internet has introduced a great many excellent ways for businesses to communicate both with each other and with clients, and many of the technologies have become popular with the general public too. With networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter more and more people are realising just how easy it can be to reach tie right people quickly. This concept has now resulted in the UK's first, and currently the only, dental network for dental professionals. This new facility has already had quite an impact on the way in which dental professionals and dental surgeries go about finding each other.

The new dental network is a simple concept, but it's through this simplicity that its strength lies. Dental professionals need only create a free profile and upload their CV, creating a profile page which is then publicly available. No personal identifying information is displayed, so information such as name, address, current employer and photographs are all hidden.

Dental surgeries can also register for free, and can either publish dental vacancies in the UK, or browse the profile pages of dental professionals, searching for specific skills or qualifications. Dental professionals can then either browse available dental vacancies, or wait to be approached by a surgery. In either case, if the dental professional is happy to, they can allow the surgery access to their identifying information, and proceed with an interview. With no fees and with a more direct approach allowing surgeries and professionals to reach each other directly rather than through a third party, dental recruitment agencies may well become a thing of the past.

Cookies, pies, candy and a host of other sweets seem to be everywhere during the holiday season. If you add in hectic schedules, grabbing something to eat on the run becomes the norm, which can cause your teeth to suffer before the season ends. This doesn’t have to be the case.

If you use a few of the following tips, you can still enjoy your bright smile once the holidays end:

1. Avoid Hard and Chewy Candies
   Candy canes, hard peppermints and chewy caramels all tend to cling to teeth long after the bulk of the candy is gone. It’s important to avoid these treats, even though it may be tough.

2. Drink Water
   Sodas are full of tooth-decaying sugar. Tea, coffee and wine — especially red wines — can also stain your teeth. You should opt for water whenever possible.

3. Eat Your Fill of Turkey and Veggies
   Turkey contains phosphorus and protein, and veggies contain a multitude of vitamins that are all good for tooth health.

4. Watch Stocking Contents
   Instead of filling a stocking with candy and treats, try filling it with toys, fruits and a special toothbrush!

5. Hum a Carol
   Try humming your favorite Christmas carol as you brush, and don’t stop brushing until it ends!

6. Pair Cheese and Alcohol
   Cheese neutralizes the acid in most alcoholic beverages, making the acid less tooth-damaging.

7. Stock up on Fruit
   This will help curb your sweet tooth and provide additional nutrients.

8. Eat on a Schedule
   Instead of nibbling all day, try eating at regular times and giving your teeth a rest between meals.

9. Use Scissors
   Avoid using your teeth to open packages.

10. Create Non-Food Centered Activities 
    Caroling, making a snowman, or playing board games are all family activities that help avoid food and save your smile.

There was a time, not too long ago, when dental prosthetics meant dentures or bridges, the prosthetic teeth themselves were always made of porcelain, and dental acrylics were not the essential part of a clinic's dental supplies that they are today. Going back even further, it was common to use ivory or horse and donkey teeth when fabricating dentures. Despite the common myth, however, George Washington never owned a set of wooden teeth, a rumor likely based in the fact that Washington's dentist's name was John Greenwood, and his products were sometimes referred to as Greenwood teeth.

In any case, the use of porcelain (sometimes called dental ceramic) has been popular for some time, since the material, being quite hard, is both durable and resistant to staining. The primary downside to porcelain - at least from the wearer's point of view - is that, being exceptionally hard, it is also quite brittle. This is especially problematic due to its tendency to crack under pressure, as well as the extreme wear that the material can cause to opposing natural teeth. Furthermore, porcelain prosthetics and veneers can be somewhat more expensive than acrylics, which is understandable, since the process involves sculpting the prostheses from a special clay, then firing the impression in a specialized kiln at 1,400o Fahrenheit (and, as even the most skilled potter can attest, in-kiln failures are a fact of life). Dental acrylics, however, allow the technician to create the prosthesis using a quick-curing powder/resin mix to fill the impressions taken; there's no waiting for a lengthy cure time or the availability of a kiln.

With the advent of and continual improvement to dental acrylic materials, not to mention the widespread availability of associated dental supplies, dental acrylics have become the de-facto standard for most clinics. Where the fabrication of porcelain dental prostheses had previously involved several visits to the dentist, the availability of dental acrylics made it possible for a functional and attractive replacement tooth or veneer to be available to the patient on the first or second appointment, separated by a day or so, rather than the week (or weeks) it had previously taken.

While the additional hardness of porcelain does provide for potentially longer wear than is possible with dental acrylics, the increased brittleness can result in the cracking and wear-related problems noted above, resulting in significantly higher repair cost and time than experienced when using dental acrylics. And given consumers' passionate embrace of economical solutions - not to mention their desire for instant results - dental acrylics have seen their popularity steadily increase over the years. Obviously, one result of this increased popularity has been a boom in the availability of acrylic-related dental supplies (and dental supply providers). There has even been a surge in the market for non-prosthetic dental acrylics, used to create whimsical cosmetic dental devices such as the false "fangs" popularized by the segment of the population currently interested in (some might say obsessed with) vampires and other "Goth" characters.

Although such uses by no means represent the mainstream or even a significant portion of the total consumption of dental supplies, they do demonstrate the simplicity of use that dental acrylics provide. And with the ongoing efforts to improve the characteristics of dental acrylic materials, such nonessential applications could well become even more widespread, to the point where it becomes no more difficult to fashion cosmetic dental devices than it is to apply make-up. Perhaps in the not-too-distant future, it will even be quite feasible and affordable to modify one's smile for a special event, and immediately revert back to whatever is "normal" when the event is over. The possibilities are exciting, and the benefits to individuals seeking dental prosthetics are obvious.

Dental recruitment is at its highest peak yet with more people training in the various branches of the dentistry profession, whilst at the same time dental surgeries are expanding in order to be able to both meet the increased demand for cosmetic treatments as well as the range of treatments available. For anyone considering a career in dentistry the dental recruitment statistics at the moment show clearly that this is a good choice, but what opportunities are there?

Not everyone wants to be a dentist, but the dental industry is quite varied, and as more techniques and treatments become available, and as more people are enquiring about cosmetic treatments, the range of jobs and the demands of those jobs changes rapidly. We used to see our dentists just for six monthly checkups and when anything went wrong such as toothache, a chipped tooth or other tooth or gum related emergencies.

But today the role of the dentist has changed massively, with many more of us now seeing them for a whole range of cosmetic treatments. These treatments range widely from teeth alignment procedures involving braces and aligners to replacement teeth, ceramic teeth and ceramic fillings, invisible fillings, bridges and veneers to name just a few. Obviously teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic treatments at the moment, and the range of methods of delivering this treatment is still growing.

So the opportunities within the field of dental recruitment are diverse, and plentiful. But what types of career or position are actually available at the moment to anyone thinking of moving in to dentistry as a career?

Dentist

Obviously the first and the most obvious role is that of the dentist itself. The dentist will be responsible for leading the entire dental care team, as well as usually being the first person responsible for diagnosing problems and identifying the most suitable treatments. Surgical procedures will be carried out by the dentist as well as offering a range of appropriate advice to patients.

Dental Nurse

But another role within the surgery is that if the dental nurse. Dental nurses assist dentists, primarily looking after patients during surgery and treatment, as well as supporting most of the work carried out in the surgery.

Dental Hygienist

Dental hygienists help to provide advice and services which aim to prevent tooth decay and damage, thereby reducing the need for patients to see the dentist. Their role is to offer advice, guidance and education to people regarding oral health, helping to prevent the onset of tooth decay and gum disease.

Dental Therapist

Another popular role within dental recruitment at the moment is that of the dental therapist. Dental therapists carry out a number of the more straightforward treatments such as simple fillings or basic tooth extractions. Often dental therapists work with children, older patients or those patients with special needs, as well as offering a range of dental hygiene and oral advice to patients about oral hygiene.

Dental Technician

A fifth role which dental recruitment agencies are seeing a notable rise in demand for is that of dental technicians. A dental technician is the person behind the scenes who manufactures and crafts a range of products for use by the dentists for patients. This includes things like dentures, crowns, bridges and braces, and demands a high level of skill and attention to detail.

For anyone interested in pursuing a career in dentistry, dental recruitment agencies are certainly seeing a very high level of demand, and of interest, and now is one of the best times to be considering pursuing such a career. Whether you choose to be a dentist, a dental nurse, a dental hygiene, a dental therapist or a dental technician, the reward is always a great smile!

Dental hygienist salary can vary depending on where you get the job, what type of location or venue it is, and how much experience the job seeker has at being a dental hygienist.

What is a dental hygienist? 
A hygienist cleans teeth, treats dental diseases, and does all kinds of preventive oral hygiene procedures. They work usually with a dentist or a doctor and provide these services through that person. There are many types of locations and situations that you can work as a hygienist and earn a dental hygienist's salary.

The hygienist does things such as clean deposits on teeth, cleans stains, cleans under and around gums, and looks for signs of oral cancer by checking for swellings, etc. They may also be required to teach good oral hygiene at schools or to community groups in assistance with the dentist. They must like being around people and be a creative type person for best results.

Other Duties 
Other things a hygienist may have to do is things like prepare tests, help the dentist by handing him tools, doing x-rays, administer fluoride treatments, and other similar duties. Once again, it all depends on the type of place you get a job.

Where do dental hygienist's usually work? 
Nearly all hygienist's work in a dentist's office, with the average salary being around $68,000. The second most common place to get a dental hygienist type position would be in a doctor's office. You can also work for the government or other places.

The annual salary of these types of positions is around $63,000, so is a bit lower than the ones who work with dentists. Some dental hygienists actually work in some sort of employment service and they average a salary of around $65,000.

What states are best for dental hygienist work? 
The smallest amounts of dentists on average work in the state of Alaska, but they are also the ones that average the highest salary, which can run over $90,000 a year. The next highest salary is earned in California, which is also above $90,000 on average. In contrast, the state with the most dental hygienists is in Michigan, but they pay the worst at only an average of about $59,000 a year.

Some other examples of the amounts of dental hygienist salary that some states have paid are Washington State has an average of around $87,000 per year, and Nevada has been known for paying more than $80,000 a year as well, along with the District of Colombia being listed as paying more than $86,000.

One thing to remember, however, is that if the salary sound like it is a lot, you also have to check the cost of living in the area to see if it is actually enough. For example, the cost of living out west is higher than some other places, so a salary of over $80,000 there may not really be that much. These are things to remember to check when checking out dental hygienist salary while job hunting.

Why is the job of dental hygienist a good one? 
Many people get into the work of being a hygienist because it has good employment possibilities, good benefits; and nice places to work. The benefits that might be offered to those who work as a hygienist can vary from getting a paid vacation to getting health or dental insurance along with your dental hygienist's salary. Some jobs may even give bonuses for a job well done. It also depends on if you work full time or half time or if you work at a big hospital or a small dental office. All of these must be considered for when you choose where you work as a dental hygienist.

What schooling is needed? 
In order to become a hygienist you need to get a degree. Plus, if you can find a way to get some sort of experience, that can add thousands of dollars to what you can expect to get with a dental hygienist salary. In fact, the level of education and training, as well as experience can affect the amount of money you get paid quite a bit. For instance, if you got your dental degree at a vocational institute or junior college instead of getting a bachelor's degree, your hygienist salary will be much less.

To get into a dental college program, you need a high school diploma and have to pass a test. There are some dental programs that require a year of college too, but it depends on the school you want to attend. You should also make sure the dental school is on the approval list of the Commission on Dental Accreditation. Then, you also must get a license and pass a test for your state of employment.

The tests vary depending on the state. They are given by the American Dental Association's (ADA) Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations via a state or regional testing facility, so check your area for places to take your test. Once the test is passed, you can work as and earn a dental hygienist.

If you aspire to get into this job field, then you should be determined to do well in your training program and remember that the ticket at the end will be a good paying job that has a good outlook in the future for positions to be open. If you do well and get good grades and can manage to get some prior experience through volunteering or other ways, then you should be well on your way to a career as a dental hygienist.

All in all the job of hygienist is considered to be a good paying job. It all basically depends on the size of the state, the office or hospital environment, your degree and several other factors as to what money you ultimately get paid for a dental salary.

Some consider the dental hygienist as just a maintenance assistant in the dental office, but the position is an important one. A primary duty of the dental assistant is to prepare teeth so the dentist can better treat the patient.

This is an important part of dental care, and provides a healthy condition after dental work is performed.

Dental Patient Education

One of the most important parts of the assistant position is to educate patients on how to maintain their teeth to reduce the amount of corrective dental work they will need. This includes pointing out why their teeth may be in a condition necessitating the need for dental work and what they can do to prevent extensive dental work in the future.

The dental assistant works for private practices in most cases, but openings are often available in clinics, dental schools, hospitals, and research facilities. The scope of work of the dental hygienist has much to do with the state in which the dental services are performed.

Job Duties for the Dental Hygienist

Expanded roles for dental hygienists in some states include:

* Giving anesthetics to patients

* Polishing and smoothing metal restorations

* Removing or placing filling materials, including temporary ones

* Preparation of diagnostic and laboratory tests for dentist evaluation

In most states, the hygienist is responsible for:

* Assembling information and past history from patients

* Giving a close examination to identify current problems and checking for any potential problems or abnormal dental situations

* Making dental molds for evaluation purposes

* Taking and reading dental x-rays

* Teaching good dental health procedures to patients

* Placing preventative sealants or fluoride on teeth

* Cleaning the teeth of plaque, tartar, and stains

Dental Hygienist Education Requirements

An associate's degree is sufficient for many of these dental positions and can be acquired at most technical or community colleges. A four-year degree from an accredited college for dental hygiene is another option, which can lead to a bachelor's degree. The bachelor degree curriculum has more instruction in the humanities and covers courses for nutrition, sociology, psychology, English, and speech, among others.

After graduation, applicants must still pass a written and clinical state examination for the state in which they practice. Most states require passing the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination along with the state exam.

As you can see, the dental hygienist is more than just a smiling face to greet you at the dentist's office. The importance of the position makes it critical to the success of a dental practice.

The teeth were designed to last for a lifetime but unfortunately they do not. When a tooth is lost, one loses the ability to chew the food properly and it can cause issues with other teeth as well. The other teeth may be crowded or tipped. Thus, replacing the missing teeth becomes vital.  Replacing the missing teeth is important for the health of your teeth and an ideal treatment for missing teeth is dental implants. The implants sit perfectly in the mouth and do not need the support of adjacent teeth.

Poor appearance and low self esteem is also a major cause of missing teeth. The implants are perfect to be used in case of missing teeth and the treatment of implants can be done easily under local anesthesia.

Advantage of using the implants:

There are several advantages of using dental implants as these reduce the load on the remaining teeth and offers independent retention or support to the crowns, overdentures, etc. The implants also help to preserve the natural tooth tissue where the need of cutting down the adjacent teeth for conventional bridgework is eliminated. There is no need for succeeding restorations of the teeth and preserves the bone of the teeth. It helps to reduce the bone deterioration that may result in the loss of jawbone height.

The other advantages for the patients are, these implants lasts for a long time and a better alternative than the conventional teeth restoration techniques. With proper support, retention and stability of implant over dentures it becomes easy to replace the loose fitting dentures. Overdentures are useful for controlling as well as improving the facial contours that can minimize premature wrinkles. You will find it easier to chew your food and speak with clarity. As compared to full dentures, overdentures offer better chewing capability and speech tends to be clearer.

Other important information about implants:

Implants are the right treatment for patients of many ages and it is a practical solution for patients who no longer wish to wear removable dentures. Once the doctor performs the analysis about the dental and medical history of the patients, the doctor can tell, whether the implant is an ideal solution for you or not.

It is also important for the patient to have enough bone for the implant to be supported. In case additional bone material is required, the dentist will guide you through that and in case of bone deficiency, there are many effective ways to get it corrected. The treatment time will vary as per the condition.

A healthy body is a sign of a healthy mind. And when we say body, we mean every part of it – including your teeth and gums. All of us are so caught up in perfecting our bodies, that we often forget the importance of the first thing people notice about us: our mouth. Taking care of your oral health is very simple; all it takes is a little daily practice. At Oracare Dental Centre, we care about your oral hygiene, and this is why we would like to tell you a few things about your mouth that will make you want to take oral hygiene as seriously as we take it!

1. Gum disease affects your overall health

Yes, you read this right. You’d ideally think that your teeth, gums, and tongue don’t have anything to do with the rest of your body in terms of health, but that’s not true. Did you know that if you have gum disease, you are 4 times more likely to have a heart attack or stroke? Yes, this is true. So it’s advised to make an appointment with an expert dentist to evaluate your oral health.

2. Dental cleaning and check ups are important

How often do you visit the dentist just for a check-up, and not exclusively when you’re experiencing pain? To prevent your oral health from deteriorating, it is important that you take regular appointments at your dental clinic, and get your teeth and gums examined. You are then more likely to be protected from harmful diseases in the future.

3. Oral cancer is real, and fatal

Most often, people ignore the signs of oral cancer, like legions or red spots in their mouth, because of which several cases go unnoticed which makes oral cancer fatal. This is why you need to start practicing good oral hygiene and seeing expert dentists to help you understand your teeth and gums better. Prevention is better than cure.

4. Root canal treatments are not as painful as you know them

Most people know that getting a root canal done is a painful procedure. However, this isn’t true anymore, all thanks to advanced technology. At Oracare Dental Centre, we pride ourselves to provide the best dentists and even better root canal services that are so painless, you won’t believe the procedure is over!

5. Change your toothbrush regularly

A toothbrush loses its purpose after 3 months at maximum. Hence, it is important to change them regularly. If you suffer from gum bleeding, it is advised that you change your toothbrush every 4-6 weeks, because bacteria can stay in the toothbrush for long.

6. Some medicines can also cause tooth decay

Taking aspirin, blood-pressure related pills, etc., can make the mouth devoid of saliva, thus making it more prone to attracting bacteria. The remedy for this - stay hydrated.

7. Children also need to see the dentist regularly

In fact, it is important that you take your child to a dentist once every six months. Childhood is a phase when the most amount of changes occur in the body, and teeth and gums are one of them. To prevent them from losing or damaging teeth at a young age, it is important to take them to a trusted dental clinic.

8. Your tongue can tell a lot about your health

Yes, your tongue has the answers to the things going on in your body. For example, if the tip of your tongue is reddish, it may indicate a thyroid or a heart problem. If your tongue has a yellow-green tinge, it might mean that there’s a liver or a gall bladder issue. If it’s grey-brown, it indicates digestion problems.

And finally, taking care of your teeth is super easy

Brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing regularly, avoiding excess consumption of sweet/carbonated beverages and food like chocolates, and taking appointments with an expert dentist regularly is the way to go. After all, a healthy body is a sign of a healthy mind.

About Author:

Oracare Dental Centre: A dental clinic based in Pune, India offers you a pleasant experience in regards to your dental needs. Oracare features state of the art technological equipments doubled up with some of the best dentists that Pune has to offer. Rest assured for a pain free treatment at one of the best dental clinics in Pune, Oracare Dental Centre.

Medicare is a unique health insurance plan which covers various health care medical checkups and treatments including dental problems. Medicare is highly beneficial for patients undergoing various treatments either from hospitals or at homes. There are different types of medicare plans and the purchasers are required to conduct researches regarding the coverage and premiums of these plans before choosing them. The coverage is in the form of financial assistance which is paid after analyzing the medical reports from the concerned doctors. As per medicare plans the coverage offered to dental procedures are very limited. This will not include either routine dental checkups or common dental care treatments.

Medicare and dental procedures: - In general, medicare does not cover the usual dental caring like teeth cleaning, cavity filling, dental extractions, implantations, crowning etc. But certain other dental health care policies cover routine dental treatments and checkups. In ordinary health care plans, dental care also will be taken up if certified by the physician as necessary along with other ailments. In addition, there are medicare dental coverages at reduced cost for the convenience of patients. Of late, basic dental care treatments such as yearly dental checkup and teeth cleaning are included in the medicare coverages. As per this plan, once in a year, the dental patients are charged only at 50 % for one cavity filling, one root canal treatment and crown repairs. The medical savings account as per the medicare plan is another alternative to cover the dental expenses. The deposit to this account is made from the medicare account of the policy holder.

Occasions when medicare covers dental services

1) During kidney transplant or heart valve replacement surgeries, if a patient requires dental treatment, the same will be covered by the medicare policy.

2) If a patient having dental problems has to undergo jaw surgery, the medicare policy holder will be compensated for both the treatments.

3) During accidents, if gum and dentals are damaged, the cost of treatments required will be met by the medicare.

4) After tooth extraction certain patients may be affected by infections. The expenses for such treatments will be paid as per the coverage.

5) If patients suffering from major ailments require dental extraction or surgeries as per the clinical observation, the cost of the same will be covered by the respective medicare policies.

6) Senior citizens of the nation are offered medicare coverage at reduced cost, or free of cost according to circumstances.

Medicare dental plans do not cover the routine dental checkups and common dental treatments. They are covered only if these treatments are inevitable as a part of treating other major ailments. In accidents, the cost of treating the damaged teeth, gums and jaws are met by the existing coverage along with other treatments. In general, the medicare dental plans are inadequate for satisfying the common requirements of dental patients. Hence, it is high time to modify the dental plans offered by medicare.

Cheap dental implants are hard to come by. Many dental surgeons charge exorbitant amounts for something that should be considered a necessity. Finding a doctor who is willing to do the surgery for an inexpensive price takes a lot of time and effort. Before anything else, it is highly recommended that you are sure that you actually need the surgery. Your tooth problem may be solved by braces or a simple root canal.

This article tackles the things you need to know before committing to dental surgery.

What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a device, often made of titanium, placed inside the jawbone. This device is designed to act as the tooth root and should be sturdy enough to anchor an artificial tooth, bridge, crown, or denture. Dental implants act as the base for any sort of dental reconstruction done to a patient, whether it be a single tooth or a group of teeth.

Dental implants work by essentially tricking the body into accepting the titanium addition as part of the bone. Over time, the jaw integrates the implant into the surrounding bone mass.

Many surgeons say that the only difference between cheap dental implants and expensive dental implants is the amount of advertising put into it. Implants are implants. The body does not discriminate between different grades of titanium.

Choosing a Surgeon

Any sort of surgery requires careful and detailed planning. It is necessary to identify your jaw's specific shape and dimensions. This step is particularly important because the implant needs to be carefully oriented with the jawbone. A good surgeon will go over each step with you. Your surgeon should be able to address any of the concerns you have regarding your surgery and its aftercare. He should be willing to share the risks of surgery and discuss alternative methods of treatment.

If you don't already have a dental surgeon, your current dentist, orthodontist, or general practitioner should be able to point you in the direction of a qualified surgeon. By all means, do additional research. Ask around. Have your friends had any experience with this surgeon? Does the internet provide any additional resources? You may find that online forums are an invaluable source of reviews. A good surgeon is the difference between a low quality set of teeth and a set of one that will look good forever, cheap dental implants and a set that will cost you an arm and a leg.

Figuring Out Your Price Range

The price of implants depends on how many teeth you are planning on replacing. If you are missing a single tooth, one implant and one crown can be used to replace the natural tooth and its root. Replacing several teeth means implant-supported bridges are needed. Replacing all of your teeth requires an implant-supported full bridge where dental implants will replace both your natural teeth and most of its roots.

The price also depends on three factors. The first is the actual bone graft wherein the dental implant is fused with the implant. The second is where the abutment, or the extension, is grafted so that your new tooth can be placed over it. The third is the dental crown placed over the abutment.

Including dental implant consultations, additional bone grafts, and sinus lifts, the price of cheap implants depend on how many teeth are being replaced. In the United States, a single uncomplicated implant costs between $3400 and $3800. In many cases, a portion of this cost may be covered by dental insurance. In the United Kingdom, fully completed dental implants cost anywhere between 2,500 and 2,800 pounds.

Many dental schools will often offer dental implants at a much lower price. Another option that is slowly growing in popularity is dental surgery abroad. Countries like India, China, Romania, and Mexico offer top class dental services at a fraction of the cost.

The Dental Implant Process

The implants, which look like screws or cylinders, are placed into the jaw. Over the next two to six months, the implants are allowed to bond with the bone. This allows a more stable anchor for your artificial teeth. During this time, temporary teeth can be placed over the implant sites.

Many times, abutments and various connecting devices are added so that multiple crowns can be attached to the jawbone. After this step, two weeks of rest are required for the gums to fully heal.

Finally, full bridges, crowns, and dentures are custom-made and attached to your implants or the connecting device. As with all surgeries, careful aftercare is required. Flossing is a necessary step in preserving your new set of teeth. Regular visits to your dentist will ensure that your cheap dental implants remain clean and plaque-free. After this short time, you will experience a renewed sense of confidence and will be able to chew, speak, and smile in public.

Cheap implants are a possibility if you put in the time and effort into finding a surgeon suited to your needs. With the right aftercare, a beautiful smile is just a doctor's appointment away!

It has always been said that - in order to enjoy good dental health that is free from serious dental problems - one has to regularly visit the dentist and go for regularcheck-ups. It is recommended that the visits to the dentist are scheduled every six months, to ensure that good oral health is achieved and maintained, and so that dental problems can be diagnosed before these dental issues can even have the chance to progress into something more serious.

However, are regular dental check-ups really that important? Is it not enough for all of us to just brush our teeth on a regular basis - and just forgo the twice a year dental visits?

The answer is 'YES' - regular dental check-ups are very important in ensuring that our dental health is well taken care of. Of course, proper tooth brushing techniques done on a regular basis are essential parts of good oral health; as well the regular use of dental floss in making sure that the teeth and gum surfaces are free from debris is also important in maintaining good dental health. Eating a healthy, balanced diet is also something that we can all do to get the vitamins and minerals needed to aid a good dental health status.

However, we can only do so much regarding the care of our dental health, and we all need the expertise of a professional - a dentist - to check our teeth and overall dental health status on a regular basis. Dentists have the expertise and knowledge to check on even the smallest areas of our teeth and the whole oral cavity, to ensure that there are no dental problems present. Dentists also have the capability to diagnose the earliest signs of dental problems and devise a treatment plan that will ensure that these dental concerns are not given the chance to develop into conditions that are more complicated.

Hence, one should know that regular dental check-ups coupled with proper oral hygiene and healthy diet, provide a problem free and healthy dental condition. Neglecting any of these aspects, can only result in incomplete dental care and thus, paving the path for future dental complications.

So the next time you question the importance of going for regular visits to the dentist, just think of the possibility that you may already have small dental problems that are just waiting to be discovered - not by yourself, but by a dentist's trained, professional eyes!

Health insurance is something everyone thinks about but what about Dental Insurance Plans? Many full-time employers provide health insurance at a significantly lower rate than an individual would pay on their own. Dental care is just as important as healthcare. Poor dental health can lead to many health problems such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and Alzheimer's disease. For these reasons, it is important to consider Dental Insurance Plans or Dental Discount Plans when looking to save money.

When choosing a Dental Insurance Plans, you should decide who needs coverage. If you have children, you may choose to purchase dental plans for only them. Children have different dental needs than adults and those costs can easily skyrocket. Braces and other orthodontic procedures are common for teens and can easily empty your bank account if you don't have dental coverage.

Adults and kids require routine cleanings. Most Dental Insurance Plans and some Dental Discount Plans may cover the entire cost of such routine preventive care. This can save you several hundreds of dollars on cleanings alone for the entire family.

Finding affordable Dental Insurance Plans that cover all your dental needs can be challenging. If you purchase an insurance plan that is a PPO, remember to only visit providers that are "in-network." Paying out-of-network costs can be just as costly as having no insurance at all. Your insurance company will provide you with a list of approved in-network dentists. Dental Discount Plans do not require that you participate in a certain network and will provide a list of participating dentist for you.

A Dental Discount Plan could save you thousands of dollars per year on cleanings, x-rays and dental work. For example, root canals are not all that uncommon and are very expensive. Crowns and fillings can also become expensive when paying for the entire family, so even discount plans as small as 20 percent can make be of significant savings.

As your dental needs change, you may need re-asses your coverage. For example, as a single person, a Dental Discount Plans may work great for you to cover your annual cleanings. However, as an older person with a family, you might need to research Dental InsurancePlans to find a better plan to accommodate your entire family's dental needs and save on the out-of-pocket expenses for routine dental visits.

The good news is that money spent on improving your dental health can also save you money in the long run on your overall healthcare costs.

Do you dread visiting the dentist? Do you avoid or postpone your dental appointments? If you do, then you may be suffering from dental anxiety. It is easy to overcome dental anxiety once you recognize the factors which are causing it. It is also important to overcome dental anxiety because by putting off dental appointments, you may be avoiding a potentially minor dental problem which could develop into a significant issue if not attended to. It is therefore advisable to examine what is causing dental anxiety and address the issues.

The two common reasons why people avoid dentists are fear and embarrassment. Let's examine these two factors and demonstrate how you can easily overcome them.

Your fear of pain is unfounded.

Most people who worry that a visit to the dentist may lead to painful procedures are basing their anxiety on misinformed knowledge. Thanks to the application of modern techniques in dental practice, most routine dental procedures are painless. In fact, if you visit your dentist regularly for routine check-ups, it is highly unlikely that you will require any major dental procedure. You may also have formed an impression that dental procedures are painful based on some past experience of your own or someone you know. Your fear may also be based on a lack of awareness. Reading and understanding about dental hygiene procedures and precautions that you can practice at home to prevent dental problems can greatly contribute to allay your fear of dental appointments. Also once you realize that most dental appointments involve just routine dental examinations, you will be able to dispel any anxiety prior to your dental appointments and also breeze through the visit with a smile.

There is no need to be embarrassed in front of your dentist.

Another common factor that contributes to dental anxiety is a feeling of embarrassment. They say that your toothbrush is one of your most private possessions and therefore allowing someone to examine your teeth and mouth requires you to trust your dentist and have confidence in your dental hygiene. In fact, if you regularly brush and floss your teeth, you may already be in perfect dental health and your dentist may have nothing but compliments for you. On the other hand, if you have either a cavity or a toothache, then it is important that you are honest with yourself and your dentist, so that an appropriate solution can be reached before the situation becomes painful.

The best way to overcome dental anxiety is to talk to your dentist and you will discover that you have many reasons to smile and none to worry.

Dental problems nowadays are among the most common health issues people of all age groups encounter. From tooth decay to tooth erosion, people experience several problems with their teeth.

Dental care can be outrageously expensive, and the costs aren't likely going south any time soon. As dental care costs continue to rise and is often not covered by insurance plans, the practice of seeking dental care at more reasonable prices becomes more widely understood.

Your out-of-pocket costs can go down significantly if you go to an overseas dental tourism location that offers all kinds of lower-priced dental care without compromising quality. Besides reduced cost of treatment, receiving dental treatment abroad offers many other benefits like avoidance of waiting lists and the opportunity to relax after the treatment is completed.

However, there are lots of things to consider when considering dental treatments abroad. Mentioned below are some of the things that a dental tourist should take care of while undergoing dental treatment in an overseas location.

Important Considerations

Before you travel out of the country for dental care, check with the health department or ministry in the destination country to see what rules and regulations are in place for dentists.

Thanks to the dental tourism boom, numerous dental clinics have sprung up in every corner of the globe. However, not all of them standardized and accredited facilities. So, it is worth checking with several clinics to find the best quality and rate for you dental care.

The sub-standard, non-accredited dental offices lack hygiene and adequate infection control measures. They often use low quality medical surgical instruments. So examine carefully the dental clinic's level of compliance with basic infection control and safety standards and the surgical apparatus and instruments being used by dental professionals are the same as approved in the United States.

The dentist should wear unused surgical gloves for each new patient, a mask, gown and protective eyewear during all patient-care activities. Dental instruments should be properly sterilized and high standards of hygiene and cleanliness should be followed to prevent the spread of infection.

Another important consideration while seeking dental care abroad is to find out whether the dentist who will be treating you is qualified and genuinely experienced. Some dentists may be internationally trained and are used to working with patients from overseas.

What happens if something goes wrong during treatment or complications occur after the patient is back to the home? Is there any method for getting a refund if you are not satisfied with the treatment? Is there legal recourse available in case of dental treatment failure? All of these are other important considerations before seeking care abroad.

Once you narrow your search to specific healthcare destination, ask your relatives, friends or someone you know for referrals to dental care providers. If any of them has received successful dental care in an overseas location, you could ask about their own experiences including the healthcare providers they went to and who they turned to for help planning their trip.

However, you are advised not to rely solely on those referrals, as your relative may have not had the type of work you require. Going through various online resources, such as review websites and forums, to find a reliable clinic and dental care provider for you is a wise idea.

Look for a good medical tourism agency in the destination country that can make all the necessary arrangements for you, including pre-surgery examinations, dental treatment, post-operative recuperation as well as lodging, visa and local transportation arrangements.

Finally, before you leave, give you doctor at home complete information about your overseas location and healthcare provider. Also, ask your doctor what medical records and treatment details you need to bring home to complete your follow-up care.

Making the decision in your career to go out on your own and establish your own practice is possibly the most stressful period of your dental career. Going through all of the steps that need to be taken, choices that are to be made, and staying within budget rest on your shoulders, which is probably enough to give you some grey hair. Investing in a dental consultant can come at a high price; so many people decide to go it alone, with lots of research. If you're one of the latter, here are some things to keep in mind:

Do Research on the Area You'll be Serving

Gathering data and statistics on the area surrounding your prospective dental office is essential. These numbers will show you the types of dental providers already available, allowing you to select a location that is underserved or has fewer dentists. This will allow you to put your practice face forward to prospective patients that don't have someone close enough to provide them with dental care. Surveys and data are sometimes also accessible through the ADA or the chamber of commerce in your location.

Don't Go Over Budget

As tempting as it is, don't invest more on dental equipment or rentals than you know you can handle. Although you may know what you want your ideal dental practice to look like, keep in mind this is your very first and there can be room for expansion later on. Consider investing in refurbished dental supplies or operatory equipment that can help you get your feet on the ground sooner. Beginning with 2 treatment rooms but having open areas to add 2 more chairs later on is a good idea, because although you will need them later on, you won't need them for quite a while.

Get the Right Help

You won't be able to do everything on your own, and if you try to, it won't look very professional. Although it is scary to go ahead and go out to staff an office that isn't even established yet, it's something that must be done in order for you to be successful. A hygienist, dental assistant, and front office receptionist are essential. Hire them with enough time to train them before the doors to the practice opens; how else will you see patients?

Plan to Work with Dental Insurance Companies

Participating in dental insurance networks can be a great way to draw in new patients. Whether or not a dentist participates in a patient's insurance plan is a huge factor when they're deciding on who they want their provider to be. Do you want to be part of HMO plans? PPO plans? Accept government assistance programs like CHIP or Medicaid? It can be a daunting process to become approved and participate in these programs, but doing so will provide more exposure for your practice.

Get Trained

Dental school isn't known for training dentists in business management. Enrolling in a successful dental practice management program can help you know where to start, and make choices that will benefit you in the long run. From an administrative perspective, a dental management program will equip you with the right tools you need to successfully file dental insurance claims, manage collections, and improve case acceptance so that your bottom line benefits.

Get Your Name Out There

Decide how much money you want to invest on dental practice marketing. A very affordable way to do so is to utilize social media networks, which are essentially free. If necessary, pay a social media manager to run your pages for you. Encouraging patients to "check in" on networks like Facebook will show their friends, who they choose for their dental care, essentially acting like a word-of-mouth referral. It's important to invest in a high quality dental website so that patients can find out more about you before they even call to schedule an appointment. Once you open, invite the chamber of commerce and newspaper for a ribbon ceremony to be published in the paper. Visit with other dentists and dental specialists in the area to talk about referral programs between your offices.

Congratulations! Although this time may seem overwhelming, it's an exciting step in the future of your career as a dentist. Join a local dental club to get insight from other dentists who have been in your shoes. You're excited, and want to make this into something that you can be proud to share with your community.

The holiday season is a time for indulging at regular family gatherings, work parties, and get togethers with friends. While it’s fun to partake in the festivities, they can do a number on your teeth. During the upcoming holidays, don’t be afraid to enjoy the occasional treat and stick to the following tips to keep your teeth in top shape.

1. Drink lots of water. Drinking water is one of the simplest ways to stave off sweet cravings and to feel great in the midst of lots of holiday events. Before sitting down to a big family dinner or heading off to a party, drink a glass of water to help control your portions.

2. Use a straw for sugary drinks. When you’re ready for a break from water and want to splurge on a soda or glass of punch, grab a straw for your glass. Directing sugary fluid away from your teeth minimizes its impact while still allowing you to enjoy the taste of the drink.

3. Eat sweets as part of a well balanced meal. Snacking throughout the day exposes your teeth to large quantities of harmful acids that aren’t able to neutralize. When you eat a piece of chocolate immediately following dinner, your mouth rinses it off with saliva and neutralizes the acid right away.

4. Steer clear of sticky and chewy foods. Foods that are sticky or chewy, such as candy canes and caramel corn, stick to your teeth for long periods of time, further increasing harmful acid production. Balance sticky foods with healthy crunchy foods like carrots and bell peppers.

5. Keep a travel sized toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss on hand. Drinking water and eating fruits and vegetables during holiday gatherings can’t replace brushing and flossing teeth after meals. Whenever possible, brush and floss right after a holiday get together.