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Synonyms : Spare denture, back-up denture.

TECHNIQUES :

There are mainly three techniques.

(1)Modified denture flask method-(Brewer and Morrow 1975)-

• Remove a rectangular section from the upper pat of the flask for the wax sprue.
• Add utility or orthodontic tray wax in thin areas in the external surface of the denture.
• 75mm long with a diameter of 15mm wax is rolled to make the sprue which is attached the lingual surface of the mandibular heel region.
• Apply adhesive on the interior surface of the flask to aid in the retention of alginate.
• Mix alginate and place in the lower part of the flask and the remaining alginate is painted on the interior of the denture.
• Place the denture in to the alginate in the flask with the sprue projecting out through the triangular opening and supporting the denture.
• After alginate has set, the other half of the flask is filled with another mix of alginate and the flask is closed.
• After alginate has set separate the flasks and remove the denture.
• Dry the tooth indentations using tissue paper and mix tooth coloured acrylic and add in to the indentations till the cervical region.
• Now assemble the flask together and mix pour type acrylic resin and pour it through one sprue hole till the other sprue hole fills.
• Gently rock the flask to avoid air entrapment. Sprue should be upward facing and the flask is immersed in warm water at 20psi for 30minutes

(2)Pour resin flask method (Boos and Carpenter 1974)-

• Attach the denture in the base of the flask using modeling clay.
• Place the counter and pour a mixture of alginate.
• Allow it to set.
• Open the flask and remove the clay.
• Mix alginate and pour it.
• Once the second pour of alginate is set open the flask and remove the denture.
• Mix tooth coloured self cure resin and pour it in the teeth indentation and later pink colour pour type resin the denture base area.

(3)The cup flask method(Wanger 1970) or zipper technique by singer (1975)-

• In this method a 12 ounce ceramic cup is used to duplicate the denture using hydrocolloids. Singer modified it by adding a dental floss to section the alginate.
• A  16 inch floss is dipped in melted orthodontic tray wax and this is placed 2-3mm below the border of maxillary denture and across the posterior region.
• In case of mandibular denture the 2 floss are used one on buccal side and another on lingual side and extend it to the sprue wax which is attached to the heel of the cast.
• Suspend the denture using two wooden rods.
• A modeling clay wedge is placed on the inner surface of the cup and the alginate is mixed with three times the water recommended by the manufacturer.
• Fill the cup with alginate and sink the denture in to it.
• Wooden rod and the clay wedge is removed and a stream of air is blown through the space of the clay wedge to remove the mold from the cup.
• Now the floss is pulled across the posterior border and flanges to section the mold in to two halves.
• Tooth coloured self cure resin is placed in the tooth indentations and the halves are assembled back in the cup.
• Through the sprue holes the pour type resin is mixed and poured.

Scanner is one of the most essential dental lab equipments that dentists require in order to perform dental surgeries. Dental scanner is an integral part of most dental operations, especially the complicated ones. The scanners deliver superior data with improved measurements. Although there are several imaging technologies that can be used for dental surgeries, the dental scanners are designed to create a 3D digital model, based on either an impression or a physical dental model. These scanners are one of the most revolutionary inventions of the dental laboratory technology. However, it's essential to know the features of an Identica scanner, as mentioned below, in case you are planning to buy one:

• Twin camera technology – The Identica scanner boasts of a function that obtains a single set of data with two high resolution cameras. This precise data is way more accurate as compared to other scanners that are equipped with a single camera.
• 3D white light scanner – These scanners are manufactured following the white light 3D scanning technology. This enables users to obtain clearer data than the conventional laser type scanners. White light scanning ensures noise free and clearer 3D data.
• Sharp margin line – With the help of the twin camera technology, the scanner is designed for optimal measurements of margin lines. With a superior arrangement of the 3D scanning module and the rotary stage, this scanner offers a margin line that’s way sharper than other types of scanners.
• Fast scanning speed – The Identica scanner is designed in such a way such that it can scan a single tooth model just within 1 to 2 minutes, while bridges take anywhere between 3 and 4 minutes. The scanner can scan any object, irrespective of the shape of the model.

With the help of these advanced features, an Identica scanner enhances the quality of the end product in dental CAD/CAM applications. Thanks to its high-precision 3D scanning and the use of excellent 3D measurement technology, the Identica scanner has revolutionized dental laboratory technology by optimizing production and cost efficiency for the laboratories.

If you have been looking for a high-end 3D scanners ideal for CAD/CAM applications, invest in an Identica scanner today!

Brushing teeth, a seemingly simple activity can have lasting effects upon your dental health. How you brush your teeth, how frequently you do it and whether you are doing it correctly or not are some of the deciding factors about your dental health. Naturally, a toothbrush plays a very important role in maintaining oral hygiene. Unfortunately, many people are ignorant about the correct type of brush for their teeth. Simply, dropping at a store and picking up a toothbrush in your favorite color doesn't help! Choosing the right toothbrush goes a long way in maintaining and improving your dental health and hygiene.

How to Choose a Right Toothbrush

Bristles

Most dentists agree that a soft bristled toothbrush can suffice the cleaning needs of most individuals. It gently removes the debris and plaque from the teeth. If you are not too comfortable using a soft bristled toothbrush, then we recommend you settle for a medium bristled brush. However, using a hard bristled toothbrush is totally unadvisable. It can damage your gums and rip off your tooth enamel. Apart from that, one should also take into account the material of the bristles. A synthetic, nylon bristled brush is better than natural one. Natural bristles are made of animal hair, which can promote breeding of bacteria.

Head

A toothbrush with a small, angular head is better than one with a larger head. A small head can easily access narrow areas and clean teeth that are inaccessible. Angular placement of bristles on the head means you can clean teeth from all directions. This can help in prevention of plaque, which can accumulate if not cleaned on time.

Handle

The handle of the brush should be long enough to hold comfortably. It should neither be too thick nor too thin to hold. A lightweight, plastic handle is very comfortable to use. It helps you to easily maneuver and clean from all directions.  

Electronic or Manual

The choice is entirely yours, as both the brushes can effectively clean teeth. If you do not know the correct brushing technique, then you can invest in an electronic toothbrush. However, a manual toothbrush is as effective if you brush properly.

Usually, it is recommended to replace your toothbrush every 3 - 4 months. If you brush frequently, you may have to replace it before. You should consider replacing your brush as and when you see signs of wearing out. These days, you can get brushes that change bristle color when it's time to replace. Thus, a good toothbrush and a proper brushing technique go a long way in preserving your dental care.

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.

Wouldn’t it be nice if you could set a New Year’s resolution for 2015 that is simple, is quick and is easy to keep?

You can: all you need to do is resolve to brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day.

That’s it. That is by far the BEST and easiest of any New Year’s resolution.

Here’s why: brushing and flossing (and visiting your dentist for teeth cleanings at least twice a year can go a long way to keeping you healthy and happy throughout all your life.

Here are just some of the benefits you’ll receive by following this simple practice of regularly brushing and flossing your teeth.

• You’ll have a much better chance of keeping all of your teeth (no implants or dentures for you!) for the rest of your life.
• Your teeth have a much less chance of becoming discolored (unsightly).
• Toothaches will be kept at a minimum (no cavities or periodontal disease to cause the pain).
• Your chances of having a heart attack or even stroke are minimalized because plaque (which is removed via brushing/flossing/regular professional cleanings) can’t become gingivitis, which can’t become periodontal disease which can’t then move dangerous bacteria into your blood stream, bacteria that can cause serious diseases, including heart disease and stroke.

Resolve to brush and floss your teeth each day and in 2015 and you’ve just made one of the easiest resolutions – and best – resolutions to keep this year.

So be kind to your future self – make your future self so proud of the you of today – by resolving to brush and floss each and every day!

In fact, why not take your oral healthcare resolution to the next level and see if you can’t also resolve to:

• Eat fewer sugar- and starch-laden foods such as cookies, candies, cakes, and sugared sodas and other drinks.
• Brush your tongue when you brush your teeth.
• Drink at least eight glasses (eight ounces each) of liquids each day that aren’t sugar-laden. This can include coffee, juice, water, etc.
• Visit your dentist at the first sign of discomfort. Don’t put this off, hoping it will go away on its own. It usually doesn’t and the sooner you can take care of a problem, the better.

Brush and floss each day and – we’re serious – you’ve pretty much covered any “take better care of my health this year” resolution you could make for 2015.

Photo courtesy of Danilo Rizzuti/FreeDigitalPhotos.net

In the current economic environment, you may think it is better to delay your dental care and save your money. You are not alone. One in three Americans are delaying visiting their dentists, according to a 2013 study entitled Aspen Dental Cost of Delay Study. If you fall in this category of patients, be informed this decision of your will cost you a lot of money in the future. The only way to save large dental care expenses down the road is to treat small dental problems and seek preventive dental care in a timely manner.

Alarming Statistics

While so many people are avoiding dental care, nearly 80 percent of them do know that this decision will cost them an arm and a leg in the future. And, just one in 10 Americans know that seeking routine dental care is crucial for their overall health and wellbeing. Did you know gum disease has been linked to several health problems, like stroke, diabetes and heart disease? So visiting your dentist every 6 months for a checkup not only will keep dental problems at bay, but also help you avoid serious health conditions.

Unfortunately, 61 percent workers with income less than $35,000 do not have dental insurance. So, this can be a reason for such families to avoid visiting dentists, as even routine dental checkup costs money that they can ill-afford to spend.

Every year, dental-related health problems are responsible for 20.5 million missed working days, according to the annual report of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Resources. And, children studying in school miss 51 million hours of school due to dental-related issues. It has also been observed from 2006 to 2009, there was a 21 percent increase in the number of people visiting ERs for dental-related problems. It is believed this increase will continue even in the coming years, as more people are postponing going to dentists.

Delay Will Cost More

If you do not seek early treatment for your dental problems or visit your dentist every 6 months for a checkup, you will spend more. According to a report furnished by Oral Health America, the “more” is equivalent to 10 times for managing the symptoms of your dental problem in the ER. The report also states that preventive dental care and management can save over $4 billion every year in the cost of the various treatments.

The Bottom Line

If you have a dental problem, even though you may feel it is insignificant, make an appointment with your dentist without delay. Otherwise, this small problem will grow over a period of time and turn into a serious dental health condition which will require you to spend a lot more than the initial cost.

So rather than being penny wise and pound foolish, you should act now. This simple act of yours will save you money down the road and also make the treatment more effective. You will avert serious issues. Not only will you save money on the treatment, you also will save money by not having your wages or salary deducted for being absent from work. So, what do you think?

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Dentists are constantly looking to expand their practices and at the same time increase client base.  In order to expand, you must increase the amount of cash flow you are bringing in otherwise your expenses will outpace the amount of cash flow coming in.  As long as this occurs you will not be able to sustain your business over time.

An ideal way to increase cash flow while growing your client base is to seek additional working capital to use for many purposes.  The main fact though is that you must sustain or increase your client base to keep a your practice viable. 

Since you operate a practice that deals with the public, you must realize you are offering offer a service that isn't on the top of mind of many individuals until the need arises.

Unfortunately, if your info is not handy the person in need of emergency dental care may go immediately to the internet and contact the 1st dentist that appears in their local listing.

The primary focus of the dentist is to keep your practice at the top of mind for individuals to help them contact you when the need arises.

The best way to accomplish this is to market the business effectively, which can be costly in many cases.

At Small Business Loans Depot we are contacted by many dentists who come to us inquiring about the various types of cash flow increases for additional working capital for their dental practices.

As a local dentist, it is very important to connect with local residents and fellow business owners in your community to steadily increase your client base. 

As I stated earlier many individuals do not even think about their teeth door until a problem arises or their mouth is in pain.

Local residents in your community rely on dentists to be available to take care of them, especially in emergency situations.   Even if they are not coming in for regular visits and checkups, when an emergency arises, the need must be met.

There are many ways to market your dental practice to the public which in the long run can bring in a steady supply of new clients to your business.

Ideally if you want to implement new marketing plans to your practice it will cost money.  If your cash flow is not on the upswing, Small Business Loans Depot has many working capital loan and bank statement loan programs that are designed to help cash flow.

As long as you have  have at least 4 months in business and 3 months of verifiable revenue you may be eligible for one of our loan programs and the money may be used for any purpose including marketing. 

Once your receive your working capital from Small Business Loans Depot's various loan programs you may want to hire additional staff or begin to offer tours of your dental practice or an open house to show off your office to make potential clients comfortable about coming to your practice. This will that will improve the overall value of the reputation of your practice in the community. 

As I stated earlier many individuals don't think about maintaining their teeth until there is a problem which needs to be addressed. 

With the working capital received you may hire an SEO or marketing expert which can assist you in putting together neighborhood promotions that can help you get the word out on your practice.

Also you can take advantage of other media such as local billboards, tv or radio ads that will make the public aware of your practice which will place your business in the minds of individuals in your community.

Once you receive your working capital loan you can then place a certain amount for additional staff and also put together an advertising budget which will get the word out to people and then bring in additional new clients to help increase your cash flow for the entire year to help you continue to market to bring in new clients. 

A good way to widen your base of contacts is to form a partnership with local doctors and chiropractors who have a wide base of customers they deal with and can refer your services. In return you can do the same for them.  

You may want to hire a marketing expert with your additional cash flow to help you produce a television commercial can be costly for a small business, but equipped with a digital camera with recording capabilities, a tripod and with the help of your staff, you can create a 60-second commercial which is a great way to showcase your practice and show the local residents what services and products you have to offer.

Ed Rogers of Small Business Loans Depot has many years of consulting experience and can help you find the additional clients you are seeking. 

Dental surgery or even a routine visit to a dentist usually gives jitters to most people. Thankfully, technology is advancing rapidly and so are the ways and means of treatment. Today, a visit to the dentist is nothing to dread anymore. You can visit the dentist, get your treatment and return home without feeling like you have been robbed off your sanity. Modern technological advancements and development have also given way to newer ways and methods to treat the problem. One upcoming and new addition is the advent and increasing use of dental implants by dentists these days.

What exactly are dental implants?

Dental implants are basically anchors used by the dentists to any kind of dental prosthesis like the denture, bridge or crown that interface and bind to the bone or the jaw and provide support to the prosthesis. They are hard and do not cause any harm to the body in any manner. These implants are made of materials like titanium that are easy to be imbibed or in medical terms, “osseointegrate” into the bone structure. Once the dental implant is accepted and adjusted in the body, jaw or skull, then the dental prosthesis is placed on it.

Image Credit : aaid-implant.org

What are the uses of a dental implant and why should one use them?

Dental implants are an invasive treatment, but one that would provide you with a permanent solution to the dental issues without showing any marked variations on the outside. It would help you retain your natural smile and look of your gums and teeth.

• Dental implants assimilate with the existing teeth and no one will know about tooth surgery or treatment
• If there is excessive movement in the denture, lower one, this can be taken care off and addressed by the use of implants with ball and socket retention.
• It can be used to replace a single tooth or multiple teeth.

The next conclusive and obvious question is why should you use dental implants over already existing treatments, the answer is simple, it is better.

• It heals faster and is a permanent treatment to many of your dental problems
• If you have a whole denture replaced, you can start eating all kinds of food without having to worry about pressure on your denture or any kind of inklings in the mouth
• Dental implants are as good as the natural teeth and retain all their abilities and functions
• You do not need to feel embarrassed about having lost a tooth or multiple teeth, as no one will ever know or find out about the implants.
• No need for restoration or repeated follow up visits to doctors
• Limited, reduced or least damage to existing bone structure and jaw

Take the advice of your doctor

Just as these dental implants are effective they could be a cost evaluation option for many of you. So, visit our dentist and make an informed decision in consultation with your dentist. There could be a chance that dental implants would not work for you in case there are certain complexities. While dental implants are the way of treatment in coming future, it is important to consult your doctor before you proceed with them. Your dentist is the best person to guide you in the right direction of treatment.

Does your child have a lisp? It could be caused by his or her crooked teeth.

Many younger children (as young as age 7) could use orthodontic treatments to help correct speech impediments caused by crooked teeth.

In fact, many younger children could benefit from orthodontic treatments to correct a variety of issues, including jaw and some bite problems (such as an underbite). Such early orthodontic treatment can help ensure your child’s mouth has room for her permanent teeth, reducing the chance of having to have teeth pulled when she’s older.

Having your young child undergo “early” orthodontic treatment can help prevent major issues as he grows older.

How can you tell if your child needs early orthodontic treatment?

• Your child has a speech impediment, such as a lisp.
• She breaths through her mouth most of the time.
• He lost his baby teeth early or late (most children start losing their baby teeth at about age 5 and have all of their permanent teeth by about age 13).
• Your child has difficulty biting and/or chewing.
• She continues to suck her thumb after the age of 5.
• He has protruding teeth in which his top and bottom teeth extend away from each other.
• Your child’s teeth don’t come together at all.
• Your child’s jaw “shifts” whenever he open or closes his mouth (he has a crossbite).
• Her front teeth become crowded (this often occurs at around age 7 or 8).

By the time most permanent teeth have erupted (by age 13), your child’s jaw bones will have hardened and stopped growing. Waiting to have orthodontic procedures until your child’s a teen usually takes longer and can entail pulling teeth and/or oral surgery.

Orthodontic treatments performed as a youngster can prevent the need for such treatments as an adult, as well as reducing the need for oral surgery and/or tooth extraction.

If your child has crooked teeth, a lisp, sucks his or her thumb or is presenting other signs that orthodontic care could be beneficial, contact your family dentist for an appointment, examination of your child’s mouth and jaw, and a consultation regarding possible procedures.

Photo courtesy of arztsamui/FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Although oral surgery may not be as complex as physical surgery, it can be equally traumatic and discomforting, if not more. You may have to endure pain for 3 - 4 days post surgery in addition to swelling and other physical discomforts. However, if you take proper precautions and good care, you may experience lesser pain and your wound may heal quickly. In this article, we have listed some simple tips for taking care of yourself post oral surgery.

Immediate Care:

Oral surgeries are mostly done on an outpatient basis. Meaning, you will be sent home immediately after surgery. Your dentist may give you a list of 'Dos & Don'ts' along with a set of prescription medicines. However, when you get home, you will largely have to rely upon home remedies to care for yourself. These are the tips you should follow immediately post oral surgery.

Stop Bleeding

Your dental clinic staff will provide gauze pads to stop bleeding. Do not change the gauze pad frequently unless absolutely necessary. Clench the gauze pad between your teeth to exert gentle but firm pressure. This will help to prevent excess blood loss. Bleeding should subside within 3 - 4 hours post surgery.

Diet

It will not be possible for you to consume normal diet immediately after surgery. Hence, make sure you stock up on fruit juices, soups and ice-creams. Take small swigs or morsels without disturbing the affected area. If you still experience numbness, avoid eating from the wounded side altogether.

Apply Ice-Packs

Frequently applying ice-packs help in reducing swelling. You may need to apply ice-packs every half an hour during the first few hours after surgery.

Other Precautions

• Do not suck, spit for a few hours, as it can open wound and restart bleeding. Avoid drinking from straws or making swishing movements.
• Brush your teeth gently. Do not make vigorous movements.
• Take your medicines on time. Typically, your dentist will prescribe a pain-killer like ibuprofen every 5 - 6 hours to alleviate pain.
• Do not smoke, as it can delay healing.
• Eat crackers or drink soda to overcome nausea, which is prevalent post oral surgery.

Gradual Care - 3 to 4 Days Post Surgery:

After the first couple of days, you may feel much better as the pain reduces significantly. However, you may still have swelling for another 3 - 4 days. You should continue to care for your wound during this period as well.

• Eat soft, nutritious foods like scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes and bananas
• Rinse your mouth with an anti-septic mouth wash or salt water
• Stay hydrated by drinking lots of fresh fruit juices, water etc
• Apply ice pack 3 - 4 times a day depending upon swelling
• Brush your teeth gently for at least a week post oral surgery

The most important tip to promote healing and reducing discomfort is to take adequate rest. Do not exert yourself too much until the wound heals. 

All dentists that own their business are constantly looking for ways to bring in new patients.

If you are considering dental practice marketing the very 1st thing you must do is to come up with is a good plan. Otherwise you will spend time and money and basically end up with the same amount of business you currently have and you may find yourself in a hole revenue wise.

To begin, you have to know what your marketing budget will be and then put together a 12 month plan of attack to make your goals happen.

With proper SEO and marketing the internet can be your highway to a prosperous and successful business which will allow you to focus on giving your patients the best of care which I'm sure is your primary goal.

However if cash flow is not what you want it to be, then it can sometimes be a hindrance in allowing you to focus on the skill side of your practice as compared to the business side.

To start, if you own a practice you have to place well in Google especially in your local area.  Even if you don't have a website you have to be aware there are customer review pages for all types of businesses including dentistry which is the 1st thing a potential customer will research before deciding to use your services.  

If you have a disgruntled patient that you were not aware of and they posted online why they were so upset about your services and voice it online, this could cost you many future client who will avoid your practice based on the poor reviews.

If you have a website you have to be able to be found on Google, listed under the many keywords for Dentistry.

If you currently do not have a website then your competitors will receive every individual who searches for a dentist in your area. Ideally you will want to be listed on page 1 of your keyword category, especially if it is a Google search.  If your website currently is not listed on page 1, you will need to hire an SEO expert to help you.  Of course there are costs involved in hiring an SEO expert, but it is a wise investment.  Otherwise, you will need to read up and learn how to perform SEO yourself which can be a very time consuming process.  Time is something that dentists rarely have enough of to take on a new project like SEO but there are some dentists who are just starting out and have the time to focus on this.

One low tech inexpensive way to get the word out on your practice is to invest in new business cards. Be sure to have a pen handy and ask to person their 1st name and write a brief personal not on the back with their name and write you are looking forward to seeing them for a free consultation.   

Another method to bring in new patients which is very simple is to take the time to visit the local supermarkets in your area and as you walk the aisles shopping, stop say hello to everyone you see and let them know your dental services are nearby and you would love for them to stop in for a free consultation. 

You would be surprised by the fact that people love one on one interaction especially if you happen to connect with them personally. 

Ideally hiring a full time SEO marketing person would help you gain new business through videoblogging, Twitter, Facebook and many other new ways to reach local clients online. However, this will cost money.  If you have cash flow issues but feel SEO marketing would benefit your business you may want to consider inquiring about alternative funding for additional working capital.

We see it in slapstick comedies all the time: a child’s baby tooth is getting loose, so Dad gets some sturdy twine, wraps one end around the tooth, the other end around an open door, slams the door, and – voila! – the tooth is out quickly and painlessly.

Not likely.

Yanking a tooth out will cause pain and it can cause your child’s gums to bleed.

In fact, it’s really best if you let the tooth come out on its own…with a tiny bit of help from your child.

Your child’s baby teeth should pretty much come out on their own, with a little bit of wriggling help from your child.

But if you or your child really can’t wait that long, read below for tips on how to gently pull out a baby tooth.

• As the tooth becomes loose, encourage your child to wriggle it with her tongue. It probably will come out on its own with enough wriggling.
• There’s a chance wriggling it will result in the tooth dangling by a thin “thread” to your child’s mouth, or it can be very loose in its socket, but still hanging in there.
• If that’s the case, you may want to pull the tooth. Place some gauze over it, grab hold gently and twist the tooth out. It shouldn’t hurt much, and your child should feel – if anything – little more than sharp and brief twinge. If the tooth doesn’t feel loose enough to you, don’t pull or twist it out.
• Be aware that sometimes your child’s permanent teeth will erupt behind the baby teeth before your child’s first teeth have a chance to loosen and fall out. If you notice this, visit your dentist to discuss how to make sure your child loses her baby teeth safely.

The reason it’s best to let the tooth pretty much fall out on its own is because your child’s first teeth come out just before her permanent teeth are ready to erupt. So it’s just wise to let nature do what nature has been doing for thousands of years.

Children usually start losing their baby teeth around age 6. They should be completely done losing these first teeth and have all their permanent teeth by about age 13.

If your child still has baby teeth by the time she’s a teenager, or if you have any doubt at all about pulling your child’s baby teeth, visit your dentist.

Photo courtesy of arztsamui/FreeDigitalPhotos.net

What is the first thing that attracts you in a person? Is it the smile? Yes, it is! Many people judge people only by seeing them smile. A pretty smile is something that everyone would love to see. It shows that the person is happy and that is what makes the world around him the best place to live in. What would you think of a person who is nervous and is not comfortable smiling. He might not want to smile because his teeth are yellowing or they might not be clean or even. There are so many dental issues that force people to hide their beautiful smile.

Are you one among them? Or are you worried about a loved one who prefers not to smile fearing the reaction that he would get from the world? This has now become a common sight. People with poor dental health land up losing teeth early, causing empty spaces between teeth. There are a few who have chipped or dull teeth, and a few others may have uneven teeth that make the smile look awkward. Dentists in Little Rock, have found Cosmetic Dentistry to be the best solution for all these problems. According to them, cosmetic dentistry is nothing but a method used to repair and restore the teeth in such a way so that they beautify the smile.

• Cosmetic Dentistry performed by placing braces or Invisalign to align the teeth helps in the straight alignment of teeth without making them look uneven.

• It also has various methods that help in whitening the teeth. It gives a better and a brighter smile.

• Cosmetic Dentistry also helps fill empty spaces between the teeth and helps repair chipped teeth. One can make use of crowns top cover such places where the teeth are either chipped or are missing.

• All these methods not only contribute to the looks and the smile, they also help maintain a good dental health which can then help in better functioning of the teeth and the gums.

Cosmetic Dentistry therefore is all about making your teeth and gums look good and healthy. It is surely worth the time and the cost you would put in to get things done.

Mangan Dental Group - Dr. Steve Mangan
2011 North Van Buren Street, Little Rock, AR 72207
(501) 666-1188

There will be at least one time your child – sneaky devil! – will lose one of her baby teeth and not tell you. After all, it came out easily enough and, besides, she knows the drill: place it under her pillow and the next morning the Tooth Fairy will have brought her cash. Easy peasy!

Tell the Tooth Fairy to get ready for a delivery; there’s a loose tooth in the house!

Except….she didn’t tell you, so the Tooth Fairy didn’t fork over the dough.

What do tell your child?

Read below for a few different strategies to try:

• You could grab a dollar bill or two (or a $5, if that’s how your Tooth Fairy rolls), place it surreptitiously in the palm of your hand (and do so as you’re saying to your child “Oh, no! That can’t be right. Maybe you just missed it!”) and head to your child’s room. Make a point of sweeping under the bed covers and whaddyaknow! There’s the Tooth Fairy’s deposit!
• If you have older children who know that parents are the Tooth Fairy, consider getting him or her involved. Give the older child the tooth fairy cash and tell him to say something along the lines of “Oh, that’s why I found the two dollars under my pillow; the Tooth Fairy must have gotten us mixed up!” Make sure the older child gives the younger the cash.
• You could simply say that the Tooth Fairy probably was overbooked and that she’s sure to make an appearance tonight.

But what if your child is older? Might this be a good time to let her know that Tooth Fairy is you?

Most children start to wonder about the reality of a Tooth Fairy around the age of 7 or 8 (they’ve been losing baby teeth since about age 5 or 6). They may have heard rumors from friends that the Tooth Fairy is really Mom or Dad. Or they may question the logic of a little fairy coming up to 20 times (about the number of baby teeth that your child will lose) in her short life time to place cash under her pillow in exchange for a tooth.

Most parenting experts recommend that you tell your child the truth if she asks you. (Note: if she becomes angry, it’s usually not because she discovered that you’ve been lying to her all this time; it’s because she still wants the fairy tale to be real. Most children will get over this pretty quickly.)

Children love to be “in” on adult things, so you can enlist her help in keeping “our secret” from her younger siblings and even friends. Tell her it’s fun to help youngsters believe in the Tooth Fairy and it’s not her place to tell friends/siblings the truth because it’s the parents’ job.

Photo courtesy of ankpkr/FreeDigitalPhotos.net

We all have read and experienced a number of advanced methods and techniques that are now being used in case of dental treatments. The advancement in technology has contributed a lot towards this field too. The root canal procedure, the dental implants and cosmetic dentistry are all examples of the introduction of technology in the dental field. All these treatments have proved to be the best solution to the problems they have been discovered for. Although most of them might be painful, they are worth all the pain. A little pain now, will save your health for the future. Let us now see what is Dental Implant and how does it contribute to maintaining a healthy dental health.

What is a Dental Implant?

Dental Implants are the small metal posts that are positioned into the jawbone beneath the gums. This is where the dentist then places the replaceable tooth and the crown. The plate or the frame acts as a support to the artificial tooth that is used to replace a missing tooth.

When do you need a Dental Implant?

It is the combined decision of you and your dentist as to where the Implant needs to be placed. Dental Implants can be done if you are looking out for a solution to the following problems.

• If a single tooth is missing: This is done by placing a single implant and a crown to cover up the empty space.
• If several teeth are missing: You cannot use the above method to replace every single tooth. Therefore, the use of implant supported bridges can be used.
• If all your teeth need to be replaced: You can try replacing all your teeth using the implant supported full bridges or dentures.

Who can undergo a Dental Implant?

Like every other treatment, here too you will have to consider the other health conditions that your body is going through. Everyone who is eligible to undergo a dental extract can agree to go in for a dental implant. People suffering from chronic illnesses like diabetes and other heart diseases should be examined personally.

Dentists should also examine the health conditions of those who are used to heavy smoking and those who have undergone a radiation treatment in the head and the neck area. Although the entire process of Dental Implant may sound to be simple, it is always better to get a safe thought from the dentist and the physician you are referring to.

Advantages of undergoing a Dental Implant

As we have already seen that every treatment that a person undergoes has a few advantages and a few disadvantages. If we make sure that we have taken all the precautionary measures before, during and after the treatment, it will surely give us more benefits than the side effects that may be seen. The main advantages of getting a dental implant done are:

• Improved Appearance with a realistic Feel: The dental implants look exactly like the natural teeth and are fixed right into the bone. They improve the appearance of your teeth and act as a permanent solution to the missing teeth.
• Improved Oral Health: Unlike the other tooth supported bridges that are used in the other treatments, the metal plates in Dental Implants do not require any alterations in the neighboring teeth. The plates are connected directly to the jawbone that provides enough support for the replaced tooth.
• Convenient: The Dental Implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth. They need not be removed like the removable dentures for cleaning. Thus, it avoids embarrassing situations where you will have to remove your dentures and eliminates the need for adhesives used some to keep them in place.
• Easier Eating: It is found to be difficult to chew with the sliding dentures present in the mouth. Dental Implants are the permanent and strong replacement for missing teeth and thus act like natural teeth. You might not have any difficulty chewing your food with these artificial teeth.

Things to Remember after a Dental Implant

After you have spent enough time and money for undergoing a dental implant, you will now need to take enough safety measures to protect them. These teeth are similar to the natural ones that you may have. Thus, the same techniques can be used here as well. You need to keep your teeth clean and plaque free. Thus, regular brushing and flossing is important.

A regular visit to your dentist will help you clear off  any minor problems immediately without letting them become major issues and affect the entire dental health. It is thus seen that Dental Implants are, no doubt, the best solution for missing teeth. But, one needs to take enough care during and after the treatment.

Good oral health is important for your overall well-being. You should make sure to visit the dentist regularly as this is important for healthy gums and teeth. Dentists can guide you with the proper brushing and cleaning techniques, apart from spotting early signs of dental problems and perform treatments to cure oral diseases with the help of advanced dental lab equipments, if they spot any.

Here are ten simple tips to follow, which will ensure good oral health and hygiene -

1.    Change your toothbrush at the right time – Make sure to change your toothbrush every three to four months. It is equally important to brush your teeth at least twice a day. This will ensure that food particles don't get to stay within your mouth for long and act as the breeding ground for bacteria and viruses.

2.    Brush your teeth properly – While brushing twice a day and changing your toothbrush is important, you also need to know the right method of brushing your teeth as well. According to dentists, you should place the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle against the gums. Ideally, move it in a circular motion, instead of opting for a strong back-and-forth motion.

3.    Pay attention to what you drink and eat – Foods that contain acidic components dissolve the minerals of tooth enamel and soften the tooth material, which in turn can lead to cavities. Therefore, be selective about what goes into your mouth.

4.    Protect your teeth – Make sure to wear a mouth-guard or a full face helmet whenever you are playing an outdoor sport to avid chipping, breaking or damaging your teeth and gums otherwise.

5.    Clean your tongue – For maintaining good oral health, it is also important to keep your tongue clean. Use a tongue scraper to remove the tongue plaque every day.

6.    Visit your dentist at regular intervals – Make sure that you go for dental checkups at regular intervals, even when you don't have problems like bleeding gums or toothache. Don’t be afraid of dental lab equipments as you may not even need them if you maintain oral hygiene and follow your dentist’s advice.

7.    Eat crisp food – Crisp foods like popcorn and celery, often called 'detergent' foods, help clean your teeth. So, try including them in your diet.  

8.    Use apple cider vinegar to gargle – Before brushing your teeth in the morning, consider gargling with apple cider vinegar as this helps whiten teeth, kill bacteria and remove stains.

9.    Always stay fresh – You can check the freshness of your breath by licking your palm and smelling it when it is still wet. If this smells bad, consider having a sugar-free breath mint.

10.    Use baking soda to brush your teeth – It is advisable to brush your teeth, at least once a week, with baking soda as this helps remove all the stains and whiten your teeth.

Keep your gums and teeth healthy with these tips and enjoy a sparkling smile for years to come. You may even consult your dentist to improve your dental health with the use of contemporary dental lab equipments.

There are many health problems which contribute majorly towards the severity of the other complicated problems that one might face in life. Diabetes is one such illness in which the blood sugar level is said to be unstable. It is a well known fact that this illness if left unattended can affect one’s cardiovascular health and also the nervous system. This itself makes the problem sound so complicated. But, there is much more to it.

Diabetes or the improper level of sugar in the blood can also affect ones dental health. According to expert dentists who have been practicing in Little Rock, diabetes had been found to be a major cause of incurable infections in the gums. It is held responsible for most of the patients suffering with Gingivitis or Periodontitis. The unstable levels of blood glucose, reduce the capacity to fight bacteria and hence allows them to attack the gums, causing infection that lead to the loss of teeth.

It is a well known that a a person suffering with diabetes has to bear with infections for a longer time. They do not get cured soon. Hence, it is the responsibility of the individual to make sure that he takes enough care of his dental health keeping in mind the different risks and the infections that may occur. But, infections do not occur suddenly. There are some minor symptoms which, when looked into at the right time, will help avoid the severity of the disease. These symptoms are:

1. Bleeding of gums when a patient is flossing or brushing.
2. Swollen Gums that have turned red, or tender.
3. Pus oozing from the gums or from between the teeth.
4. Bad breath.
5. Loosening of teeth.

When one finds the occurrence of these symptoms frequently, it is time to take care and walk into a dental clinic to avail the required treatment. But, one thing that a diabetic patient needs to keep in mind is that his blood sugar levels should be in control to make sure that the infections in the gums are cured sooner. The dentist and the physician, both should be informed about the two treatments going parallel. They can then work out together and see that none of the medication or treatment affects the other.

Mangan Dental Group - Dr. Steve Mangan
2011 North Van Buren Street, Little Rock, AR 72207
(501) 666-1188

It is often said that the state of your teeth reflects the state of your health. In other words, your dental health is the reflection of your entire health. Hence, it is imperative to take very good care of your teeth. Many people assume that brushing teeth twice a day is enough for preserving good dental health. However, this is a completely wrong notion. Good dental care goes beyond mere brushing. In this article, we have shared some great tips for dental care.

Brushing

Simply brushing your teeth is not sufficient for good dental care, but doing it frequently and properly is utmost important. Brushing your teeth twice a day - in the morning and before going to bed is definitely a great idea. You should brush for at least three minutes to derive maximum benefits from brushing. Opt for a soft bristled brush and use proper technique for brushing your teeth. Do not be too harsh on your teeth, as you risk damaging your gums in the process.

Use Fluoride Toothpaste

Use toothpaste containing recommended amount of fluoride in it. Fluoride is very crucial for your teeth. The recommended fluoride content in toothpaste for adults is 1300 - 1500 PPM.

Flossing

Floss your teeth regularly - at least thrice a week to remove plaque, tartar accumulated in inter-dental spaces. Regular flossing is a must because toothbrush cannot reach certain places in your mouth.

Use a Mouthwash

Although, mouthwash is not an absolute necessity, it definitely helps in preserving good dental health. Use an anti-bacterial mouthwash to get rid of bacteria that can contribute to bad breath. Using a mouthwash twice a day can freshen up your breath.

Clean Your Tongue

Tongue is an ideal place for bacteria to thrive. Hence, it is imperative to clean your tongue on a daily basis. Use a professional tongue cleaner for this purpose.

Eat Healthy Foods

Keep away from sugary foods as they contribute to tooth decay in a big way. Besides, fizzy drinks also lead to cavities. Hence, it is important to cut down on these foods. Eat lot of fresh fruits and vegetables that are rich in vitamins and minerals. Also, consume calcium rich foods, as it is absolutely required for healthy teeth.

Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle

Alcohol and tobacco is extremely detrimental for your oral health. Smokers especially are at high risk of suffering from dental and gum diseases. Similarly, chewing tobacco can lead to oral cancer, besides causing numerous dental problems.

See Your Dentist Regularly

A routine trip to a dental clinic is necessary to keep tooth and gum diseases at bay. Visit your dentist at least twice a year for good oral care.

Correct Dental Deformities

Crooked teeth not only mar your appearance but also lead to teeth problems, as cleaning such teeth is a challenge. Hence, consult your teeth to correct dental deformities.

Treat Dental Problems

Dental problems such as tooth decay must be treated as soon as initial symptoms appear. Ignoring problems can lead to a bigger trouble in future. Hence, seek dentist's intervention at an appropriate time.

You can also seek teeth whitening treatment to further improve the appearance of your teeth. However, always give dental hygiene precedence over cosmetic procedures.   

I have been asked a zillion times !! "Doctor ,What about Mouth wash ?? can i use it regularly ?"

According to WIki pedia :
*"Mouthwash, mouth rinse, oral rinse or mouth bath, is a liquid which is held in the mouth passively or swilled around the mouth by contraction of the perioral muscles and/or movement of the head, and may be gargled, where the head is tilted back and the liquid bubbled at the back of the mouth." -An Antiseptic in nature !

*Important information regarding Mouth wash should be about its Ingredients !!
Most of the Indian Brands Marker Chlorhexidine Gluconate !! 0.12 % C G is required for healing of oral tissues !

*Major ingredient of a mouth wash include "Alcohol "!

*Continued use of products containing chlorhexidine for long periods can cause stains on teeth, tongue, and gingiva,[gum] 

*Prolonged use can also reduce bitter and salty taste sensations – this latter symptom can be reversed by ceasing use of chlorhexidine.

* The brownish discoloration of teeth and tongue is due to the disintegration of bacterial membranes, leading to the denaturation of bacterial proteins.

WHAT IS A MAGIC MOUTH WASH ???!!

*A "magic mouthwash" (or "magic swizzle"),[citation needed] refers to a non-standardized mixture of ingredients prescribed for a specific purpose, e.g. oral surgery, or to treat the pain associated with mucositis caused by radiation therapy or chemotherapy. 

*It is also prescribed for aphthous ulcers, other oral ulcers, and other mouth pain
*Because magic mouthwash has no standard formulation, its use involves concerns about patient safety..

Conclusion :START USING A MOUTH WASH ONLY IF THE DOCTOR SUGGESTS YOU TO ! Mostly a good oral hygiene practice doesnt require administration of Mouth wash .
Patients do complain of halitosis or odour mouth ! Bt mouth wash is not the first line of treatment ! Hence pls do consult a doctor prior to !