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If you would like to know how to stop a toothache without going to the dentist, then the tips provided in this article may prove to be useful for you.

Although going to the dentist is probably the best way to stop a toothache, some people may not be able to use this option to get rid of their toothache pain.

Let's face it, going to the dentist is certainly not cheap, and if you cannot afford it, then you really don't have much of a choice, but to look for alternative ways to cure a toothache.

There is also the fact that a dentist is not the most favourite person of many people. To put it bluntly, dentists do tend to strike fear into many of us. Any time that I have had to go to the dentist in the past to get some toothache relief, and I'm not ashamed to admit this, I have been anxious, had butterflies, and almost been sick with the thought of what's to come.

The dentist has always told me that "this won't hurt", and without putting a too finer point on it, he is a liar.

So knowing how to stop a toothache without going to the dentist is going to be a blessing for many people, for different reasons.

One of the first things that you will need to check for, if your getting tooth pain, is to see that there is no food trapped in the tooth. So brush properly around and in the tooth, if there is a cavity. Also floss, so you can get in deeper.

Painkillers can be effective, but the only problem is that you have to keep on taking them constantly. This is not really advisable. Firstly any toothache pain relief that you get will only be temporary.

Secondly, if you are taking strong painkillers, there may be side effects attached to them, and there is always the possibility of addiction. This is not a road you want to go down.

To help with the tooth pain, try getting a piece of ice and placing it on the gum area where the toothache pain is coming from. This will to take down any swelling. But if the cold irritates the problem, then clearly you should stop this method.

One of the most effective ways of relieving tooth pain is to apply a couple of drops of clove oil on the painful tooth, so that the oil will slide down into the gum. This can work fairly quickly to stop a toothache. Be cautious when you apply the oil because if it gets on the tongue or other areas in your mouth, it will burn a little.

Another good toothache remedy which often works is to rub some pepper around the tooth and the gum. This helps to fight the bacteria, and settle down the nerve.

You should try to rinse your mouth out a few times a day by using water which has a little salt mixed in. This will help keep the bacteria in check.

If you find that your toothache does ease up, then you really need to start taking care of your teeth more. Brush and floss a few times a day, and avoid sugary and acidic foods. Hopefully these tips will help you to stop a toothache.

Unfortunately tooth pain is something that a lot of us will go through at some point, and it certainly is not a lot of fun. Luckily there are steps that can be taken to get rid of tooth pain quickly by using some natural remedies for toothache.

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Although modern orthodontics was not invented until the early 17th century, dental braces date back to ancient times. Aristotle, Hippocrates, and other historical figures contemplated and devised early systems to help people fix or straighten their teeth. Instead of the metal bands that are used today, early orthodontists used catgut, a natural fiber made of animal intestines, to straighten and close gaps in teeth.

Luckily, the field moved onto more effective methods. Braces were invented in the early 19th century. Since that time, metal braces have been the teeth straightening system of choice for dentists and orthodontists around the globe. They can be used to fix a myriad of problems, from overbites and malocclusions to diastemas (gaps) and other aesthetic issues. Both parents and their children abhor them, but for different reasons.

Parents can't stand them because they're expensive, and kids hate them because they are uncomfortable and unsightly. Just about every wearer has been called a "brace face" or a "metal mouth" at one time or another. Kids can be cruel, and metal braces give them all the ammunition they need to launch an unprovoked attack.

Cosmetic alternatives to traditional metal have existed for decades. The clear plastic versions, for example, are cemented onto the backside of the teeth instead of the front, making them invisible to observers. In addition to being pricier, however, clear braces are also far more likely to cause tongue irritation since the brackets and wires are on the insides of the teeth and near the tongue.

What Is Invisalign?

As we have seen, braces have limitations. The traditional system is unsightly and the more modern alternative causes oral irritation, which may result in soreness, cuts, and even infections. Fortunately, there is another option that does not rely on metal brackets and wires-Invisalign.

Invisalign is a tooth straightening system that utilizes custom-made aligners that gradually shift your smile into its proper place. These aligners are made of smooth, comfortable, and almost undetectable plastic that is worn over your teeth until the treatment is complete.

How Do They Work?

With traditional metal models, dentists must make regular adjustments based on your progress. In most cases, the wires must be tightened periodically to expedite the straightening process. But that is not necessary or even possible with Invisalign. Instead, the patient is simply given a new set of aligners when needed-sometimes as often as every two weeks. Simply pop them in and wear them until your teeth shift enough to require a new set of aligners.

In addition to the obvious aesthetic advantages, Invisalign is also functionally superior. You won't have to worry about your favorite foods getting caught in wires or brackets, which makes them even more of an eyesore. Because the aligners are removable, this new system allows you to eat the foods you like at any time. You can also brush and floss normally, which can be a chore with regular braces. Last but not least, the smooth plastic Invisalign trays will not irritate your gums and cheeks as traditional metal often does.

Because Invisalign does not require regular orthodontic adjustments, cosmetic dentists may offer this option to their patients

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The Range of Expertise of a Dentist

Dentists have a much wider scope of care than many people are aware of. They are not only adept at filling cavities and whitening teeth, but did you know that many doctors specialize in certain areas? This allows the general practicing tooth doctors to cater to a broader range of the community's needs. This article will lay out their regular duties, as well as the many specialty areas practiced by them.

Among the office management duties that go along with any business or medical practice, general dentists' duties include educating their patients on proper oral care and oral disease prevention. They also perform routine cleanings, checkups, x-rays and preventive methods, cavity care, sealant application, diagnostics and even some oral surgery.

Years ago, if someone needed braces, they would expect to see an orthodontist. These days, it's possible that your family doctor also specializes in orthodontia. This is one example of how the industry is shifting to create better service and marketability for them.

Below are some of the areas of specialty many practice:

-Endodontics: Focus on root canals and related surgery. These types of doctors deal with tissues surrounding the root of the tooth.

-Orthodontics: These dental practitioner correct improper bites, irregularity and misaligned jaws

-Pediatric Dentistry: Tooth doctors who focus on children's dental care.

-Oral Pathology: They identify and manage the treatment needs of the oral and maxillofacial areas

-Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery: These doctors perform surgery to treat injuries, disease or malformations in the jaw, face and even neck areas as they relate to the bones and tissues of the jaw region.

-Prosthodontics: Doctors who specialize in prosthetics, regarding teeth or bone implants of the oral and jaw area.

-Public Health Dentistry: These dental practitioners work in preventing dental diseases and promoting dental health via the use of organized community efforts.

-Veterinary Dentistry: This area of specialty among oral doctor focuses on the dental needs of animals.

Aside from the above areas of expertise that at least 20% of all dental practitioners specialize in, the vast majority of general practitioners perform cosmetic dental treatment and procedures to improve the look of teeth and enhance the confidence of their patients.

As you can now see, oral doctor are bringing more to the table in terms of treatment and care options available under their roof. If you find yourself in need of any of the above- mentioned areas of care, begin by contacting your family dental practitioner. You may be able to receive the care you need.

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You enter the dental office and it is time for your yearly exam. Have you ever wondered what is going on with the x-rays and what is going on inside your mouth? There is a method to all this madness, just like at your physical you are getting checked for various diseases.

Cavities

Cavities, or dental caries are caused by acid and bacteria. The bacteria themselves cause acid which dissolves the enamel of the tooth. When the bacteria feed on carbohydrates the produce this acid, which is why sugary snacks are a risk for tooth decay. Other sources of acid can also cause damage. Carbonation from soda, energy drinks, and even acid reflux and vomiting can weaken the enamel. The enamel softens gradually and decays,eventually the softened area becomes large enough that it needs to be filled.

At your dental visit there are a few ways that cavities are detected. One way is x-rays. Your dentist will look for areas on the x-ray that look like shadows, these areas are where the enamel is less dense and cavities have formed. Another method that may be used is a visual exam by the dentist. They may blow air on the teeth to see if the tooth has a chalky color that is common in early cavities or areas where there is obvious visual decay. They may also feel the teeth with an instrument to check for soft areas. Finally there is a method that uses laser fluorescence to detect decay. These instruments give a numerical value that equates to how severe the decay is, from healthy with no decay to severe decay. The DIAGNOdent and the Spectra Caries Detection Aid are the most common ones used. These instruments allow detection of early decay so it can be treated before it becomes more severe and costly.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal Disease is extremely common. The most obvious result of periodontal disease is loss of bone and eventually teeth. If you have ever looked at someone's smile and their teeth appear long you have seen someone with periodontal disease. The way level of periodontal disease is assessed at the dentist includes a full periodontal assessment. During this assessment your gums will be measured with an instrument that is like a little ruler. It measures the space between the tooth and the gum called the sulcus or pocket. Additionally any root surface showing above the gum-line will be measured. The teeth will be checked for mobility or looseness, bleeding and the degree of plaque and tartar on the teeth will be assessed. The combination of this data, along with your health history will help determine your treatment.

Your x-rays are another way that your bone level can be evaluated. There are additional screenings that can be done which will tell which particular bacteria are in your mouth but those are not used as frequently in initial screenings.

If there is no bone loss or bleeding your gums are healthy. That is great. If there is bleeding but you have not lost bone you have gingivitis, which is the earliest stage of periodontal disease. Luckily this is reversible with proper treatment. Finally if you have lost bone and there is bleeding you will be diagnosed with active periodontal disease, which will need treatment to avoid losing even more bone and eventually teeth.

Cancer

The third disease that is screened for at the dental office is cancer. During a manual oral cancer screening you will be asked to stick out your tongue and areas of the mouth will be looked at and touched. Your dentist may pull on your tongue to get a better look. Dental professionals are trained to find suspicious lesions. In addition to this manual oral cancer screening many offices do additional screenings using the aid of special lights. You may go to an office that does Vizilite, Velscope of Identifi screenings. These additional screening methods are used to detect cancer earlier than the manual screening. It is a great addition to your check up because early detection saves lives.

Why is all this necessary?

A thorough assessment should be done at regular intervals to make sure that you are healthy and avoid painful, costly and lengthy procedures. Problems in the mouth don't tend to get better on their own. Without proper treatment these problems progress. A cavity will get bigger and may eventually need a root canal, or an extraction. Untreated periodontal disease is an infection that can interfere with your health in other parts of your body. Bone loss will not get better, but can progress without treatment. Undiagnosed cancer will not go away and can spread to other areas of the body. Knowledge is power. Understanding what is going on in your own body is important to taking control of your health and you life.

Like doctors and nurses, dentists and dental hygienists care about your health and aim to provide the best care possible. Unfortunately there are many people who don't constantly get these check ups. Often, patients with dentures think they don't need to go to the dentist because they don't have natural teeth to worry about. They may not realize that oral cancer screenings are so important. Another barrier to treatment is lack of insurance. Even patients that do have insurance often turn down recommended treatment due to cost. Unfortunately many patients believe that if they really needed something insurance would cover it. This is unfortunate because it may lead to more serious disease in the long run, when diseases are not diagnosed early.

Next time you go in for your check up at the dentist pay attention to the screenings that you receive. If you feel like you did not get screened for any of these diseases ask for it. It is important that you take control of your own health. If you had a suspicious lump you would fight to get it checked by a physician, but more importantly you would hope that it would be caught before it became something dangerous. Be your own advocate. Ask to be screened for all three, cavities, periodontal disease and cancer.

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Sleep Apnea: How Can a Dentist Help?

Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition that prevents proper airflow while one is sleeping. The tissue at the back of the throat will collapse during sleep, which causes a partial blockage of the trachea and hence reducing the amount of oxygen available for distribution to vital organs.

Patients present loud snoring, and may stop breathing for short periods of time - the body wakes itself up when oxygen levels fall critically low. This can happen many times a night without the patient's full knowledge, meaning that the patient doesn't enjoy restful sleep. This results in Daytime fatigue and sleepiness.

Other effects include irritability, headaches in the morning, memory loss, decreased libido, impaired concentration and depression. In addition, patients are at a higher risk for suffering heart problems and strokes and are more susceptible to accidents in the workplace or on the road due to impaired concentration.

Diagnosing Sleep Apnea

When a patient sets up an appointment with a sleep apnea dentist, the first step will be to keep a diary of one's sleeping patterns for two weeks or so. On the day of consultation, an initial interview will be conducted in order to help understand what type of sleep disordered breathing you may be suffering with. A polysomnogram test may need to be performed to examine the heartbeat, brainwaves, limb movements and breathing while the patient is asleep.

The dentist/sleep specialist will also be interested to know any underlying conditions that may interfere with one's sleeping patterns e.g. drugs and medication, sleep disorders, medical conditions, etc.

Treatment options

There are two main categories that sleep apnea treatments fall under:

1. Oral appliance therapy

2. Upper airway surgery

Oral appliance therapy (OAT)

The dentist will prescribe OAT where patients only present mild to moderate forms of sleep apnea. The first line of treatment is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or fitting an oral appliance to prevent collapsing of the tongue. Behavioral changes are also suggested e.g. losing some weight and changing sleeping posture.

There are various designs for oral appliances, and the dentist will prescribe the most suitable one for your specific needs. In many cases, custom designed appliances will be used as they are more effective than standard OTC appliances. This will only be applied after a certified sleep physician has provided a diagnosis. Fitting of the appliance will be followed by weeks of on-going evaluation to determine efficacy.

Upper airway surgery

This is the last option considered where other less invasive treatments have been unhelpful or are intolerable to patients. There are many surgeries that can be performed, and they are specific to the site of maximum interference. The dentist along with an ENT will help you decide the surgery to be performed depending on the nature and location of obstruction.

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If you are wondering that wisdom tooth has something to do with dental philosophy, then you are absolutely wrong. The only reason behind the name is that the third molars erupt at an age when we are shifting to adulthood. That age is the age of wisdom- "mature and wise". Hence, as a creative gesture these tooth were called as 'Wisdom Tooth'.

When & Why?

The obvious questions that come into mind are "Why the wisdom tooth needs to be removed?" & "When is the right time to see a dentist?"

Wisdom tooth brings certain problems like decay, gum disease, infections, plaque build-up and abscess. Due to space shortage, tooth can get stuck at an inappropriate angle causing worries.

If you experience pain and discomfort in the specified region, contacting your dentist should be the immediate option.

What to Expect?

And now to the most important question! Since this whole process is a bit different, how weird or uneasy is the surgery or extraction? The most common dental fears arrive at the scene.

At Dentist's Expectations

Wisdom tooth extraction is the job of an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Anxiety is a major player here as to how the surgery is going to take place. The patient has to be prepared mentally for the surgery.

Anesthesia is the major choice to overcome. There are three types of Anesthesia involved here:

Sedation Anesthesia: this is given through an intravenous line (IV) in your arm. This restrains your consciousness. Neither will the pains be experienced nor will you have any memory of the procedure.

Local Anesthesia: the most common option wherein the specific or target region will be administered with injections. Pressure and movement is experienced but not pains.

General Anesthesia: this anesthesia is used in special situations wherein the patient will be unconscious for the entirety of the procedure. There won't be any pain or memory. Sometimes, local anesthesia is also given to help after-surgery discomfort.

There is also another effective method that can be used based on the patient's consent. It is the method of "Laughing Gas" or nitrous oxide. The method won't hurt but seeing and hearing the surgical drill vibrations and chatter might stress you. Also, pressure is a major part of this procedure. However, inhaling nitrous oxide will relax and relieve you of the anxieties.

Procedural Challenges Brief
Step 1→ incision in gum to expose tooth
Step 2→ removing bone that blocks access
Step 3→ tooth division into sections
Step 4→ tooth removal
Step 5→ debris cleaning
Step 6→ stitching the wound close
Step 7→ necessary gauzing
Step 8→ after treatment manuals (measures)

After treatment manual is an important step because once treated, following up properly will only help increase the comfort level. Bad breaths, brushing patterns, food intake, pains, swelling, and susceptibility to touch are the most important things to keep in mind.

Steps like incision, bone removal, teeth removal & stitching will surely catch your attention. Anesthesia helps but it is strongly advised to follow certain measures as suggested by the dentist. Also, doing some research pre-treatment won't hurt you either.

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All of us are searching for that perfect, gleaming white smile that gives an impression of radiance, youth, health, and cleanliness. With time, the color of our teeth can change, so we seek ways to reverse or alter these effects by buying expensive teeth-whitening products, such as pastes, gels, strips. and lights. While there are endless methods to try out, one of them should be consulting a professional.

Get Professional Help First

It's easy to go to a pharmacy and buy products that claim to whiten teeth, but it's not that easy to see results. Over-the-counter whitening brands require a rigid schedule to guarantee the desired outcome. Because people are often forgetful and barely enjoy brushing their teeth in the first place, it is hard to follow a strict regiment for a period of six months, two years, or longer. While we assume that the do-it-yourself version will save us money and time, its results are less noticeable than those from visiting your personal dentist.

We're All Different

Everyone's degree of tooth discoloration varies. These variations are due to genetics, which explains the different causes of gum disease and cavities. Some of us are more or less prone to these causes, but in order to be sure of what's affecting your particular discoloration and how to treat it, you must find an experienced doctor.

Dentists are educated in the chemical treatments, bleaches, and dyes that are most suitable. One form of treatment may not work the same as another, which is why it's important to seek qualified help. Skilled professionals are also aware of your sensitivities and allergic reactions.

Teeth Whitening

One of the best techniques used by dentists is to buffer in a gel that can transform your teeth in a single visit. It whitens your teeth about ten shades lighter within an hour. While these special agents are active and effective, there is still homework on your part. Depending on each patient, some may be required to continue their treatments at home. Your doctor will be sure to give you special toothpaste, prescriptions, and recommendations of what products to purchase for home care. Typically, one in-office teeth whitening procedure will last up to two years. Although doctors give you a big boost, it's your job to continue taking care of yourself by staying away from things like coffee, tea, wine, and cigarettes. You should also always remember to brush and floss!

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If you’re of a certain age, you may have heard your parents – or even yourself – humming this tune. (Although it may not be as passé as we feared, for Elmo and Michael Bublé provided a delightful rendition of the 1944 novelty song as recently as 2012.) Or you may have sung it to your 7-year-old child when he lost those two front baby teeth.

 

But if that cute kid grows up without taking proper care of his teeth, he could lose his adult teeth when older…and that definitely wouldn’t be an adorable sight to see.

 

So how can you help your young child understand how important it is to practice good oral hygiene habits now and long into the future?

 

We’ve put together a short list of some tips you could try. Take a look below.

1.      The earlier you start talking to your child about taking care of his teeth, the better.

 

How early is best? Toddler-age. You’ll still be helping to physically brush your child’s teeth when he is 2 or 3, so make sure you make it a regular part of his routine each morning and evening. Talk to him about why it’s important and how easy it is to keep a healthy and bright smile.

 

2.      Practice good oral hygiene habits yourself.

 

Children do as you do and much more so than what you say. They are watching you constantly and if you don’t make a habit of brushing/flossing and going to the dentist for checkups, they’ll balk big time at having to do so themselves.

 

3.      Don’t talk about what a pain it is to go the dentist.

 

You always should say how you’re looking forward to going and discussing how you’re doing with your own oral health with the dentist. Even if you’re afraid yourself of the dentist and truly do loathe having to go, go! And be calm about it when speaking with your children. (And be sure to talk to your dentist about your anxiety. He has ways of helping lessen your fear and anxiety.)

 

4.      Consider going as a family for your regular checkups.

 

Making it a family affair shows that the entire family thinks enough about these checkups to go as a unit. In addition, you can make the outing even more enjoyable by heading to a movie afterward, or going out for lunch/dinner. (Skip the sweets, of course!)

 

5.      If you discover you have a cavity or need dental work, talk to your child about it.

 

Let your child know that it’s your own fault you have a cavity or otherwise need dental work. You know what you should have done better – you should have brushed/flossed more, or and not eaten all those sweets – and you promise to take better care of your teeth from here on out.

 

Then, when you return from your next checkup without any issues, make sure you let your child know that your dental habits are the reason for this “good” checkup.

 

6.      As your child ages, talk to him about gum disease, tooth loss, etc.

 

There’s probably someone in your family or close circle of friends who has lost one or more teeth. Gently, and without disparaging the individual, explain that he or she more than likely could have prevented the problem just by brushing/flossing/seeing a dentist regularly.

 

7.      Praise your child for his good oral hygiene habits.

 

As your child continues to practice good dental habits, congratulate him on his hard work and remind him that if he keeps it up, he should be able to keep all his teeth for the rest of his life.

 

Image courtesy of imagerymajestic/FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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We always hear that four out of five dentists recommend chewing a particular brand of gum or using a certain toothpaste. Yet there's always one dentist who doesn't buy into the group-think. Why is there never unanimity? And if one in five don't recommend a particular brand of mouth wash... well that means there are thousands of dental professionals who wouldn't recommend it! Well, the truth is that these polls don't actually represent what they want you think they represent. It's actually a time-honored obfuscation of truth in American marketing, and it has been used since at least the 1950s (at one point four out of five doctors preferred Camels).

Advertisement is regulated by the Federal Trade Commission but is subject to some legal grey areas that exist where government regulation of commerce meets common law and the First Amendment's Free Speech Clause. The federal Truth in Advertising Act imposes restrictions designed to ensure that scientific statements are backed by at least some kind of study. However, the law also recognizes certain statements as 'puffery,' assertions no sane person would believe to be fact. If you hear words like 'clinical study' or 'national survey' you have a reasonable belief that some kind of work was done (though that's no assurance that the work was reliable). The 'four out of five' trope is broadly phrased ad-speak that aims to create the illusion of statistical analysis without over-promising much in the way of evidence.

It is often important to pay attention to what exactly is being said in the commercials. For example, if the ad states that four out of five professionals recommend a certain product, they could have only asked five select people, chosen in advance or cherry picked. The ad could also claim that four out of these five dentists recommend flossing with picks, and there are five men in white lab coats on the screen. That could mean four of the dentists pictured recommend it. Or maybe the commercial tells you that nine out of ten recommend brushing your teeth with brand X. That may be true, but they could also recommend brand Y or Z. You have to imagine any dentist would recommend brushing your teeth with most brands of toothpaste.

So if these are all, in one way or another, misleading, why not make everyone agree? Probably because it's more believable to bluff small, and a majority is good enough. While these claims sound like factual statements, the devil is usually in the details. The words are vague enough or obtusely true in a way that As Mark Twain said, there are lies, damn lies, and statistics. They can often be manipulated to reflect any number of partial truths.

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Top Five Tips From The Dentist For Diabetics

Among the many health risks of diabetes is a decline in oral health that makes patients more vulnerable to gum disease. According to dental professionals, this happens because diabetes slows the body's circulation, making the gums more susceptible to infection. The metabolic disorder also increases glucose (sugar) levels in saliva, which fuels the growth of dental plaque that attacks the teeth and gums. To protect against the disorder, follow these simple tips.

1. Visit Your Dentist Regularly.

Because diabetics are at a much higher risk of gum disease than the average patient, you should never miss a dental appointment. In fact, you should schedule regular checkups two to four times a year. With professional cleanings and regular examinations, common mouth conditions, such as ulcers, dry mouth, and infections can be controlled. To prevent bouts of low blood sugar, it may be a good idea to eat before you see your dentist. It is also crucial that you inform him or her of any oral problems you may be having -- no matter how minor they may seem.

2. Follow A Strict Oral Hygiene Regimen.

All diabetics should and really must brush and floss daily, preferably after every meal. This will help remove the plaque that can cause gum disease, thereby lowering your risk for mouth ulcers and infections. It is recommended that you complete your oral hygiene routine at least three times a day. Because your risk of oral infection is elevated, it is important to avoid aggressive brushing that can cause cuts and sores. You may even want to use a soft-bristled brush or an electric model for a safer, more comfortable brushing experience.

3. Control Your Blood Sugar.

As we mentioned, sugar stimulates plaque growth, which causes tooth decay and gum disease. Because diabetics have more glucose (sugar) in their blood, they also tend to have a lot more plaque on their teeth. But if you can keep your blood sugar low, you can reduce your risk of periodontal disease.

4. Don't Smoke.

In a perfect world, nobody would smoke -- especially people with diabetes. The unhealthy activity causes a laundry list of serious complications, including oral infections and periodontal diseases. According to dental professionals, smoking can more than double your risk of cavities and infections.

5. Clean Your Dentures.

If you have diabetes and you wear false teeth, you are more prone to developing oral thrush -- a fungal infection of the mouth. Typically caused by denture irritation or wear, thrush can be prevented with regular cleaning. It is also recommended that you remove your dentures in between meals to give any irritated tissue the opportunity to heal. Your dentist might also advise you to limit your sugar intake when your mouth is bothered or raw.

When followed to the letter, these simple tips should help you control diabetes-related dental issues

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No matter how often we brush, floss, and gargle, all of us have bad breath every now and then. For most of us, unpleasant odors emanate from our mouths in the early morning hours before we've had a chance to complete our oral hygiene routine. This morning breath is caused by food particles that get trapped in our teeth and then combine with bacteria, which results in malodor. While there is no surefire way to prevent bad breath all the time, here are five tips from your dentist that will help control it.

1. Brush your teeth after each meal and before bed. This will help remove most of the food particles that get stuck in your teeth. It is also important to use your toothbrush for at least two minutes each session. Longer brushing times can significantly reduce your risk of cavities and gum disease.

2. Brush or scrape your tongue. It might sound and feel a bit strange, but your tongue is covered with tiny hairs (papillae) that cling to bacteria. If enough of them accumulate, they can cause malodorous exhalations. Sold in most drugstores, a tool called a tongue scraper is your best defense against an olfactory nightmare. You can also use your toothbrush to remove most of the residue that clings to your tongue.

3. Get regular checkups. Because gum disease is the most common cause of bad breath or halitosis, it is important to make regular appointments with your dentist. Not only will he or she check your mouth for dental problems, but these professionals can also recommend products and techniques that may help you manage or even solve the issue on your own. It is also important to add that bad breath is a common symptom of serious oral infections. If you experience a sudden, unexplained bout of halitosis, contact a dental professional as soon as possible.

4. Drink plenty of water. Dry mouths are even more susceptible to plaque than wet ones, since food particles stay in place and combine with bacteria. Drinking six to eight glasses of water a day should wash away most of the residue that causes bad breath. People who have chronic dry mouth should speak to their dentist before the problem causes serious dental issues. He or she may be able to recommend a safe, effective saliva substitute that increases oral moisture.

5. Stop smoking. As if you needed another reason to quit, here is a no-brainer. Smoking causes halitosis. Not only does the harmful habit dry out your mouth, resulting in accelerated bacteria accumulation and growth, but cigarettes and cigars also smell on their own. In fact, a whiff of tobacco is often enough to make non-smokers run for the hills. Moreover, there's really no way to mask the odor. Because it has a pungent, acrid scent, no mouthwash in the world can overcome the smell of smoke.

These simple tips from your dentist can help you control, even eliminate bad breath in no time.

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Dubai is a charming destination that attracts many tourists every year, but it is also an ideal destination for the best orthodontic treatment. A lot of people are hesitant to smile freely because of discolored teeth. They seek for brighter and whiter teeth for which the Teeth whitening Dubai treatment is quite popular. It is also a safe process. Teeth whitening is all about bleaching the teeth to make it lighter and it can also lighten the present color with the help of existing shades.

Why Dubai?

The Teeth whitening Dubai treatment is ideal for those who want bright and white teeth. Teeth whitening should only be done by an experienced dentist who is a professional as this may put your dental health at risk. In Dubai, the doctors will closely examine the teeth and see if you are capable to go for teeth whitening. They will not put your dental or oral health at risk and will highlight the complications if any. Complications may arise only in rare situations but Dubai doctors will always let the patient know the complete detail before they pursue with the teeth whitening procedure.

People should avoid going to salons or taking home whitening dental kits as these can include a lot of risk. The teeth should be examined by a professional dentist only to get best results.

The process:

For teeth whitening, there are two most suitable procedures offered for best results. Firstly you can choose for the home treatment where you would need to wear the light weight custom made trays with bleaching gel on your teeth everyday for 30 to 60 minutes every day for two to three weeks. Secondly you can choose laser whitening or zoom where zoom uses the light activated agent with hydrogen peroxide bleaching gel. In this process the light will shine on the teeth for 15 minutes and you would need to do 4 sittings in this. The total number of sittings can be completed within a day.

The other process is laser whitening but instead of light, laser is used for whitening the teeth and the process will take around 30 minutes to complete. Those patients who want Teeth whitening Dubai treatment completed within a few hours instead of wearing the trays can go for this treatment. The results will be same and you will get to see that the Dubai hospitals have a comfortable and relaxing environment where the treatment will take place and after a few hours you will be able to return home. The treatment is of high quality and doctors offers promising results. The treatment cost is also very nominal. So, fix an appointment today with the dentist in Dubai and enjoy white teeth without any risk.

 

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People can be irrational when it comes to the dentist. They might regularly visit their dermatologist, gynecologist, or proctologist, but postpone a visit to their tooth doctor. Just like all of the other medical fields mentioned, it is important to get regular checkups for your teeth. Here are three reasons why.

It Can Prevent Other Diseases

The human body is an intricate machine. A problem in one area can cause issues in another. Your mouth and teeth are no different. Studies have shown that gum disease can cause a number of other health problems for people. Gum disease can be caused by lack of proper care for teeth, through genetics, or a combination of the two. Those who suffer from it are nearly twice as likely to suffer from heart disease. Gum disease can also affect a body's ability to regulate its blood sugar. Other studies have linked certain types of plaque with Alzheimer's. In short, a visit to the dentist can help prevent many other serious health problems.

It Can Save You Money

An average exam and tooth cleaning costs between $50-135. Those who carry insurance will find they likely qualify for much cheaper, or even free, cleanings. Routine exams and cleanings can catch minor issues early, such as cavities, damaged roots, a buildup of plaque, or gum disease. Many of the procedures required to deal with the more serious maladies are quite a bit more expensive than the cost of a cleaning. An implant costs $4,250 on average to replace a tooth. Root canals cost over $1,100. Filling a single cavity can be as much as $200. The good news is that routine visits to your dentist can prevent most if not all of these issues. Minor cavities can be stopped from expanding after a thorough cleaning. The flossing and plaque removal that is performed during the cleaning helps stave off gum disease as well.

It Can Keep Your Smile Looking Great

Before modern oral surgeons, orthodontists, and endodontists, people had a lot of problems with their teeth. As discussed above, poor oral care can be expensive and dangerous. It can also look bad. With regular visits to the dentist, people can maintain healthy looking teeth and smiles. Studies have shown a clear link between a healthy smile and a person's level of confidence. A bright smile means a great first impression as well.

In conclusion, it is important to make regular visits to the dentist. This keeps your smile bright and healthy, along with your confidence. A twice-yearly examination and cleaning can also help you detect problems that can lead to other expensive and dangerous health issues.

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How to Cure Chronic Bad Breath

Adults and children alike suffer from chronic bad breath occasionally or regularly. Although common, chronic bad breath is not a laughing matter as it might signal a more serious medical problem that needs to be treated and solved.

So how can you treat or cure chronic bad breath?

To successfully cure chronic bad breath, it is first necessary for you to note and understand its underlying causes. Once you have identified what causes chronic bad breath to occur, it would then be easy for you to find a solution and treat it.

So to begin, note and understand that there are several possible causes of chronic bad breath. The list may include poor oral hygiene, periodontal infection or gum disease, intense buildup of odor-causing bacteria in the mouth, chronic sinus infection, candidiasis, unfavorable habits like smoking and drinking, poor digestion, liver and kidney disease, constipation, so on and so forth.

Given those underlying causes, it is now easy for you to agree that chronic bad breath is not something that should be ignored. So when you notice that something is wrong with your breath, start looking for a possible cure or treatment of chronic bad breath.

Well, there is one particular solution that is deemed effective to cure chronic bad breath - the use of low concentrations of carbamide peroxide. This treatment is actually revealed by certain researches at the Academy of General Dentistry's 53rd annual meeting which was held in Washington, D.C. just recently. According to some reports, the carbamide peroxide is an odorless ingredient that can not only be used to disinfect and bleach teeth, but can also cure chronic bad breath.

However, before you can apply the carbamide peroxide to cure chronic bad breath, you need first to consult a dentist who can customize trays or mouth guards that are made to fit tightly around your teeth. This is very much important as the solution is applied by placing it in the tray and into your mouth where it remains for an hour. Once the treatment is done, you maybe required to do the treatment by yourself at home. You can cure chronic bad breath at home for an hour everyday. Many of those who have tried this cure have claimed that after three treatments, you will notice a significant change in your breath.

There are also other solutions formulated to cure chronic bad breath. But, the truth still remains that to successfully cure chronic bad breath, you need to work closely with your dentist to find out other possible health concerns associated with chronic bad breath. This is also highly advisable to fully identify the most suitable plan for treating this condition. Chronic bad breath is no laughing matter, after all.

 

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Fear is often associated with the dental chair. Many people are afraid to visit the dentist and their anxiety grows more when asked to sit down for the required treatment. These days however, dental technology has solutions so patients can undergo any procedure without thinking about the pain. From cleaning to root canal you can relax in the dental chair with the help of sedation dentistry.

Sedation is the ideal solution for any discomfort when undergoing any dental procedure. Not all dentists however can employ this solution. Only trained and certified ones should carry out sedation dentistry. Your sedation dentist will use medication to soothe away your anxieties and fear. Depending on the level of sedation, you may be awake but relaxed.

If you want to try this dental solution, here are key questions you might want to ask your dentist when visiting for a consultation. Brief answers are provided but your dentist will be able to explain well.

Will the procedure make me sleep?

Know that there are levels of sedation and you will be fully unconscious only if you opt for general anesthesia. This is only administered for those who have extreme dental fears. Your doctors may be required to monitor your vital signs as well.

For added information, the other levels of this solution are:

  • Minimal sedation or inhaled - this is when you breathe nitrous oxide
  • Oral sedation - here you take a pill to calm your nerves
  • IV moderate sedation - your dentist will administer the sedative through your vein

Will I feel pain?

Your dentist can adjust your sedation level depending on your needs. He makes sure that the appropriate amount of medication is provided so that your comfort is assured. You can relax throughout the treatment as you will not feel the pain.

Are all types of dental procedure covered in sedation dentistry?

From routine cleaning to complex procedures, sedation dentistry can be used. Whether you are in need of dental implants, root canals, or even tooth extraction, this branch of dentistry can be administered by your dentist.

Is sedation dentistry for everybody?

Some dental treatments are not possible for everyone but sedation dentistry is a choice for patients. This is highly recommended for anyone who suffers from dental phobia or anxieties. If you have low pain threshold, you can request for this dental solution. Those who have poor gag reflex, physical limitations in their jaw, neck, or back as well as those who are completing several treatments in one visit can benefit from sedation dentistry. Ask your sedation dentist for more information.

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Tips To Find A Good Dentist

Wherever you are in the world, finding a good dentist to help you will your oral hygiene and dental problems is a really big deal. The consequences of poor oral hygiene are unfortunately severe, so the sooner you can find a reputable professional in your area to work with, the better your chances of enjoying problem-free oral health for a very long time indeed.

The first thing to do when looking for a good dentist is to ask your friends and family who they recommend. If you have just moved to a community and do not have any friends or family who live in the area who can provide you with a recommendation, see if there are any local community groups that can advise you.

When asking for a recommendation, consider asking about the things that are important to you. If you have a fear of the dentist - as a large number of people do - you can ask about the friendliness and technique of the dentist in question. Does he or she put their patients at ease? Is he or she gentle when carrying out procedures?

Although this information can be very helpful, there is another way to get a recommendation of a dentist if you are moving to a new area - and that is asking your former dentist. Many dentists will have extensive professional connections and they may very likely be able to put you in touch with one of their trained and experienced colleagues in a different city or state.

Even if they may not be able to give you the name of a particular dentist, they may well be able to give you extensive advice on how to choose one, including what kind of questions that you should ask before selecting a new provider, and what you should look out for when you turn up for your first appointment.

If you have a dental plan, it is important to check with your insurance provider about the network of dentists that they have working in your area. They will often be able to supply you with information on where each dentist trained, how long they have been practicing, whether they provide dental discounts and much more.

This information provided by your insurer can be very useful in learning more about the practitioner before you book your first appointment with them. If going with a dental plan dentist, check to see if you receive any dental discounts when moving to a new provider, as some reputable companies will offer this to help you get settled in.

After you have a few recommendations to work with, it is wise to visit the dental surgeries of your choice to see what the premises are like, how friendly the staff is, how busy they are and whether or not the dental practice is easy to access.

You do not have to book a first appointment in order to carry out this kind of dentist reconnaissance mission; instead, do your research on the dental services that you want to receive and prepare a few questions to take along with you.

Your questions can include if the practice is able to fit in emergency appointments, if they can send you a reminder the day before your appointment, how the dentist sterilizes his or her tools, if there are any cosmetic dentistry treatments available, and whatever else is relevant to you. As well as getting to see the practice itself, you will have the opportunity to get your questions answered.

These are just a few tips for choosing the right dentist in your new place of residence. Ask for recommendations from friends, family and your former dentist, check with your dental plan provider whether you can obtain dental discounts from their network of providers in the area, and check out each dentist in person before you make your final decision.

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A Cosmetic Dentist Provides Dazzling Smiles

A cosmetic dentistcan make your smile look just perfect. Your teeth are very important. They are the first thing visible when you talk, eat, laugh, and smile. So make sure they are in tip-top shape. You probably cringe when you encounter someone with bad oral hygiene. Well, you may have the same effect on others if your smile is not in the best possible shape. So take that extra step of personal development by making sure you look your best. Having dental corrections can give you that boost of self-esteem that you really need.

A cosmetic dentist offers that best oral health care and so much more. Brushing and flossing your teeth daily are good habits to practice. But every now and then you need a professional cleaning to remove any unseen plaque and to get your teeth looking shiny and healthy. This is why regular visits are important. However, there are certain oral issues that are more serious and need to be handled as soon as possible. The right professional will know exactly what to do. Perhaps you have lost some teeth. Having missing teeth is unattractive. Fortunately there are teeth implants available. These implants are very natural looking and will be the perfect fit for your individual mouth.

Cavities are also quite common. If left untreated, cavities can present even more serious oral health issues. There are fillings and crowns that will correct the teeth and make them as good as new. Eating is a necessity and also a pleasure. If you don't have comfortable use of your teeth, the whole experience can be dreadful and embarrassing. So make sure you keep your teeth healthy at all costs. Let the cosmetic dentist restore your mouth back to health. Oral diseases such as gingivitis and bad breath problems can be solved by the hands of a knowledgeable professional as well.

Imagine having the most radiant smile you have ever had. It's very possible. You can toss away those mouthwashes and toothpastes that claim to brighten the teeth. There is a more effective way, and a cosmetic dentist can provide it to you. You can have whitening services performed in the dental office. Or you can be provided with a powerful solution to take home with you. Both options work just the same. The results are amazing. You can flash a dazzling smile that will be sure to amaze and attract all those around you.

The act of taking good care of your teeth extends far past your bathroom sink. So many oral issues can be solved by the hands of a great cosmetic dentist. You should be able to laugh and smile without feeling ashamed or embarrassed. You should be able to chew without experiencing pain or discomfort. And you can. Just schedule an appointment with a dental professional today. An initial consultation can put you on the road to having healthier, shinier teeth in no time. So make that phone call today. You deserve to feel good about yourself.

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Let's find a good Dentist

What To Look for in a Dentist

Take as much time as necessary picking a dental specialist; don't sit tight for a crisis! There are a few things to consider when searching for a dental practitioner.

Area and office hours– Choose a dental practitioner near and dear or work. This will make it less demanding to calendar visits and to land on time. Additionally, ensure that the dental office is open on the days and at the times when you can plan an arrangement.

Cost–Does the dental specialist acknowledge your protection? Does the dental specialist offer numerous installment choices (charge cards, individual checks, installment arranges)? In the event that your protection arrangement obliges referrals to experts, can this dental specialist give them?

Additionally, know that expenses differ by practice. In the event that you can, get evaluations of what your dental practitioner may charge for normal techniques, for example, fillings, crowns or root trench treatment. Regardless of the fact that you have dental protection, you may be paying a portion of the expenses yourself.

Individual comfort–One of the most imperative things to consider when you pick a dental specialist is whether you feel good with that individual. Is it true that you are ready to clarify side effects and make inquiries? Do you feel like the dental practitioner hears and comprehends your worries? Would you feel good requesting torment solution, communicating your trepidation or tension, or making inquiries around a method?

Proficient qualifications–The dental specialist's office ought to have the capacity to let you know about the dental specialist's preparation. The workplace additionally ought to have arrangements on disease control. On the off chance that the staff appears to be uncomfortable noting your inquiries, or you are uncomfortable with their answers, consider finding another dental practitioner. You can likewise get data around a dental specialist's capabilities from the neighborhood dental society or your protection transporter. Most associations of claim to fame dental specialists additionally list their individuals and capabilities.

Crisis care–Find out what happens in the event that you have a crisis, either amid ordinary available time, or around evening time or on a weekend. A dental practitioner ought not allude you to a healing facility crisis room. You ought to have the capacity to contact your dental practitioner (or a suitable substitute) whenever by calling a voice-mail, wireless or pager.

About the writer:
Raymond Casey is the researcher and essay writer for blogs & projects.

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4 Things a Good Dentist Does

No matter if you've visited the dentist a thousand (though we certainly hope not!) times or only a handful, there are certain things you need to remember when visiting a dentist. Though these may not be directly connected with your mouth, these things are the characteristics that set a good dentist apart from the rest. These things can make or break a deal with a client and can help put him at ease as well. Here's a list of the four things that every good dentist does that can help a client tell them apart from the rest of the sea:

1) They're Interested in What You Want To Say:

A good dentist will always be interested in what you're feeling. They might have their hand in your mouth but they know that you know how that feels so they will always be interested in how you would like your teeth and how you're feeling about them.

2) They Will Put You At Ease:

Going to the dentist is a scary ordeal and often one associated with pain. A dentist will make sure that you don't have to suffer unnecessarily. They will guide you through the procedure and explain exactly what they will be doing. A dentist will also listen to your suggestion and discuss it with you because at the end of the day, you're the one who will go home with your mouth.

3) They're up-to-date With The Latest Technology:

Perhaps no field of medicine is progressing as quickly as that of orthodontics. This is why a dentist keeps up to date with the latest changes so they can treat you more efficiently than ever, meaning that you will heal quickly, more efficiently and with less time taken.

4) They're Passionate About What They Do and How They Do It:

A good dentist is not only passionate about dentistry; they're good at what they do. Their passion not only shows in their work or their testimonials but also in their office's environment. A dentist will employ friendly staff who will be glad to help you. Additionally, a dentist will keep care that his surroundings, his person and especially his tools and the equipment he will be using are clean and sterile at all time. Remember that though the office or your dentist might not be too glamorous, they might be clean and well-maintained and that is what matters the most.

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How to Select a Family Dentist

We all face some kind of oral issue or the other in our life. If you have a big family, then the chance of visiting a dentist increases with the size of the family. In such a case it would be better if you can find a dentist who can take care of oral health of each and every member of your family. A family dentist would be suitable for this task.

You should consider some important points before you select a family dentist. The first and foremost point of importance is that you are comfortable with the dentist. When you meet him or talk to him on phone, you might get an idea if you are tuning with him properly. If you would like to develop a long-term relationship with a dentist, then it is essential that you are comfortable with him.

Another point of consideration should be the type of treatment that you are looking to avail from the dentist. Although a family dentist would be competent enough to deal with all kinds of oral issues, yet there is a different between general oral health care and cosmetic dental care. A family dentist may not be an expert cosmetic dentist as well and in case you are likely to require his service for the later, then you should confirm that he is going to be as good in the cosmetic dentistry as he is with the regular dental care.

The next point to consider is the location. It is practical to have a family dentist who is located near to your place of residence. You will surely not be in no mood for a long drive when you are dealing with an oral issue and therefore it would be wise to consider a dentist whose clinic is situated nearby your residence.

Another important point that you have to consider is the timings of the clinic. Different dentists have different timings; some of them are available from morning to evening, while others may only operate in the evening or at some fixed days. It is important that their clinic timings match your schedule so that you do not have to make any adjustments every time you fix an appointment with the dentist.

Finally, you should also check the rates and payment terms of the dentist. It would be better to avail service of a family dentist who has reasonable rates and flexible payment terms. You can select a suitable dentist for you and your family after considering all these points.

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