Dental Problems through Ages – Solutions That Are Near You

No matter how much we continue to ignore our teeth, they don’t stop working for us day in and day out. The reason you can enjoy your favorite food items and munch on chocolates is because your teeth allow it. Teeth play a very important role in a person’s life and if they demand a little care, they are not asking for much. A person’s dental condition undergoes several changes through his life – from childhood to old age. In every stage, the teeth hold different significance. In this short write-up, we will discuss how our dental health changes through different ages.  

Toddlers/ Young Children (Between the Age of 2 and 5)

Our dental journey begins with primary teeth or baby teeth. These are the set of teeth that remain intact until about the age of 6. Till then these baby teeth aid in all the important functions such as chewing and speaking. However, numerous dental problems are seen in young children or toddlers. These problems can range from tooth decay, thumb sucking, lip sucking, tongue thrusting and even early tooth loss.Research has found that 40% American toddlers have tooth decay by the time they reach kindergarten. The best way to keep the baby teeth is good condition is reducing a child’s habit of thumb sucking, lip sucking etc. Routine dental check-up is also very important for the child. 

Children and Young Adults (Between the Age 6 and 19)

This is the time when most dental problems become visible. The common reason why children and young adults fall victim to dental problems is their eating habits. Over-indulgence in carbonated drinks, ice creams, junk food increases dental problems. It is not surprising that 78% American children have at least one cavity by the time they are 17. However, what is surprising is the negligence, especially on the part of the parents. 16% children between the age group 6 and 19 have untreated cavities. Change in eating habits, such as, increasing the intake of celery, carrot and apples helps keep the teeth clean. Regular visits to the dentist are also important. 

Adults (Between The Age 20 and 64)

Most of us feel concerned about the way we look during the early 20s. Even during the next few decades of life, we continue to evaluate our dental structure critically. This is the age when not only the dental health concerns us but also how our smile looks, the way the teeth are positioned and the changes they bring to our facial features all begin to matter. 74% adults feel that an unattractive smile can hurt a person’s career prospects. It is during this period of life that we should restrict consuming dark foods and drinks such as red wine, black tea, coffee etc. Cigarettes can also leave unwelcome marks and should thus be avoided. 

Seniors (Above the Age of 65)

As we begin to age and reach the twilight years of life, our teeth undergoes considerable change. The changes are often so great that very few seniors can be proud of their unaffected teeth. Statistics validate this point quite clearly too. 33% seniors have untreated tooth decay. Diabetes, heart disease, stroke and respiratory disease tend to worsen the condition of the teeth. Fortunately there are several solutions to overcome dental problems at this age. Professionally cleaning the teeth twice a year, brushing twice daily, flossing once and using anti-bacterial mouthwash regularly can minimize risks. Fish oil also helps in reducing the risk of gum diseases by at least 30%.

Dental Fear - It’s Time to Get over Apprehensions

Dental Fear or Phobia in Dentistry is as old as this profession. While this is often joked around, it is a serious problem in America and other parts of the world.In the early days of short movies dental visits were exhibited as a painful experience so were graphics which often portrayed the dentists as devils who would grind the teeth and extract them painfully. The fear and apprehension was so profound that children were often threatened with dental visits for misbehavior. Yes, in the past dental procedures were painful and the sounds at a clinic scary. But dental science has made considerable progress in pain control and management in the last few decades but the fear and the anxiety continues to remain a major problem leading to severe dental problems. 

It has been estimated one out of three American adults suffer from dental phobias. As a common myth, this fear was always thought to be prevalent among children but it is far away from the truth. This phobia is more acute among people who are between 40 and 64 years or middle adulthood and in fact have twice the prevalence of fear compared to all the other age groups combined. Majority of them weren’t taken for regular dental visits in their childhood and the fear and anxiety has remained with them even in their adulthood. Not surprisingly it is the same category of people who suffer from the most acute problems   

Avoiding Regular Checkup

This fear is very often characterized by one’s avoidance to visit a dentist even for seeking regular dental care.This leads to lack of regular dental care resulting in several tooth and gum problems that include tooth decay, gum disease and eventually tooth loss. Most of the common tooth and gum problems can easily be prevented with regular examination and small procedures when required. This can also save people from expensive procedure when their conditions deteriorate. This fear is often attributed to three major factors – cost, injections and painful procedures. 

Vicious Cycle of Pain and Procedures

Dental fear often traps you in a vicious cycle which is difficult to come out from and can lead to permanent damage to your teeth and gums. This vicious cycle is summarized in the below pointers

• Fear prevents you from going for regular preventive dentals care examination which are a must irrespective of age 

• This often leads to a situation where emerging dental problems go undetected at a stage when they are completely curable. These tend to aggravate over time and develops complications

• Complexity of the problem requires expensive procedures which may seem unaffordable to many and can cause permanent damage to the teeth and gums. 

• The dental procedures which deal with complex teeth problems can cause some a lot of pain and discomfort

• This pain and discomfort adds to your dental fear and you are back to avoiding regular dental examination. 

Modern dental procedures are less painful and cause minimum discomfort to any patients. The science has come a long way and you should avoid getting trapped in this vicious cycle. Dental visits for kids should start early as this doesn’t leave any room for fear and apprehension to develop in their minds. 

It is important to zero in on a professional dentist or dental clinic. You can ask for reference from friends and colleagues as they would guide you to a professional. If you still have any fear in your mind, discuss it with the dentist during your visit as he or she would be able to calm your nerves.

Invisalign – The Secret to Millions of Happy Smiles

There used to be a time when almost every child could be seen with braces. Teeth straightening was considered one of the most difficult and painful things. Thankfully, today dental science has progressed so much that braces are dying a slow death and they are being replaced with something better. 

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is custom-made aligners created to straighten teeth. They are specially made for each and every patient. Invisalign is made of smooth, comfortable and almost-invisible plastic that you can wear over your teeth. Invisalign was originally developed in 1997 by two Stanford University graduates and was approved by the Food and Drug administration in 1998. It was a year later in 1999 that the Invisalign began to be sold to US orthodontists. 

Why Use Invisalign?

Invisalign help correct several dental imperfections. Some of the reasons why you should get Invisalign are – 

• Crowded Teeth

• Irregular Spacing Between Teeth

• Overbite

• Under-bite

• Deep-bite 

What Happens When You Wear Invisalign?

Wearing Invisalign helps to gradually shift misplaced teeth and bring them to place. The movement is planned by your dentist or orthodontist. Invisalign have no metal brackets which cause irritation and interferes in eating, talking etc. Since Invisalign are almost invisible aligners, most people do not know you have them on. 

Benefits of Invisalign

When compared with braces, though the results are the same – bringing back the beautiful smile on people – the advantages of Invisalign are fare removed and many. Braces are known to be uncomfortable and troublesome but that’s not the case with these new-age dental solutions. Let’s take a look at some of the advantages. 

• One of the best features of Invisalign is that it allows you to eat whatever you want, whenever you want. This doesn’t happen when you wear braces. Braces limit your food choices. 

• You can remove Invisalign whenever you want. According to reports, Invisalign retainers should wear them for about 22 hours every day. However, they can be left out on special occasions without any adverse effect. 

• You won’t feel embarrassed wearing Invisalign. Since they are invisible, anyone can hardly know you are wearing them, unless you tell them so. 

• Your brushing and flossing habits need not be altered because of Invisalign.Thus with Invisalign, you have better chances of maintaining your dental health. 

• Invisalign do not hurt, they don’t irritate. They are made of smooth, comfortable plastic pieces, quite unlike the sharp metals (of braces) whichhurt the cheeks and gums. 

• You don’t need to visit your orthodontist or dentist regularly while you wear Invisalign. 

• It takes just about one year to treat crooked teeth with Invisalign, unlike braces. 

Facts and Figures About Why Choose Invisalign

Facts and figures clearly indicate that Invisalign is one dental innovation that is rightly reaching out to more people. 

• Adults also require teeth corrections. Only 35% adults have well-aligned front teeth. Moreover one out of every five orthodontic patient is over the age of 18. 

• Invisalign can help correct bites which is one of the common dental flaws in people. Statistics reveal that 20% of the population do not have an ideal bite. 

• Invisalign has become the trusted procedure the world over. It is being offered in more than 45 countries and is treating over 2.5 million patients. Its popularity is also due to the factor that about 96% patients are satisfied with the treatment.   

Cost of Invisalign

The average cost of Invisalign is about $5,500. In the United States, you can get an insurance cover of about $500-$1500.  

Dental Implants versus Dental Bridges

Not too long ago when you had a missing tooth and the dentist would suggest grinding your adjacent teeth and use them as anchor for a dental bridge.  Cosmetic dentistry has come a long way and today it is possible for you to replace a missing tooth without disturbing the adjacent teeth. Dental implants have become the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedure and make it possible for you to regain the natural look of your teeth and a charming smile. Let us now take a look at these procedures in detail and the advantages that dental implants have over fixed bridges. 

Fixed Dental Bridges   
 

Fixed dental bridges are non-removable restoration which would bridge the gap that has been created by one or more missing teeth.  This procedure has been used and perfected over the years and can help you achieve pleasing cosmetic result in relatively short span of time. There are three types of bridges - Traditional Bridges, Cantilever Bridges and Maryland Bonded Bridges. These are used depending on the condition and position of the teeth.
 

Dental Implants   
 

Dental implants basically reconstruct missing teeth and would require a number of visits to the clinic. This can be used for one or more missing teeth and helps you achieve natural looking teeth. This procedure involves placement of a titanium screw in the jaw which acts as the root of the replacement tooth. The new tooth crown is fixed over the crow. While this crown can be placed with the screw immediately in most cases dentists leave the screw to integrate with the jaw bone for a few weeks and then fix the crown over it.
 

Advantages of Dental Implants Over Bridges
 

• The biggest advantage of dental implants causes no damage to the adjacent teeth as is the case with dental bridges. In this procedure the dentist would only work on the missing teeth without damaging adjacent teeth.

• Brushing and flossing implants is much easier compared to dental bridges which can be very difficult for you to clean as small food particles often get stuck in the tiny gaps.

• Dental implants are meant to last for a lifetime if you maintain proper oral hygiene. However bridges tend to have a lifespan and you would need to replace them every few years.

• Implants can be used to replace one or more missing teeth irrespective of their position. In case of bridges the dentist would have to assess the condition of the adjacent teeth for support. This makes implants a very flexible procedure while dental bridges cannot always be performed successfully if the adjacent teeth aren’t in a healthy state.

As you can clearly notice, dental implant is more of modern a procedure that can enhance your look and help you regain your smile. Though it is expensive compared to bridges it enjoys many benefits over the traditional dental bridges. And if you are here, and visit a dental clinic in San Diego, the San Diego dentist would carry out a detailed examination and assess the condition of your teeth and gums to suggest you a cosmetic dentistry procedure that addresses your dental condition.

How to Choose Your Cosmetic Dentist

Are you looking to enhance your smile, brighten your teeth or correct aesthetic imperfections? Cosmetic dentistry has come a long way in the recent years and an experience cosmetic dentist can work wonders with your teeth and appearance. There are several procedures that can correct the natural imperfections of your teeth and help you correct dental problems that you have developed with age. To achieve best results and a wonderful experience you need to choose a cosmetic dentist carefully. Here are a few things that would lead you to a professional dentist who adds to your appeal and confidence.

Background & Experience  

Start by doing some research on the dentist’s background. How many years of experience he or she has? Is the dentist well-qualified to perform different types of cosmetic procedures? You can browse through their website and read the biographies and types of procedures they perform. If the dentist is pursuing additional education it is a great sign and this ensures you that the person is in the forefront of the latest dental procedures and would offer you the latest in terms of treatment and procedures.

What are the dentist’s office hours? Does it match with your busy schedules? This is important as the last thing you need to do is zero in on a dentist only to later find that you have scheduling problems. Also take note of the location of the dental office as most cosmetic procedures may require multiple visits and the location should be comfortable for you to reach.

Association 

Look for dentists who are a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. While this doesn’t guarantee you that the dentist is good but it does tell you that he/she has the experience and the skills to be a member of this exclusive club. Members of the AACD are required to have great bit of professional skills and experience. 

Patient Reviews   

What are other patients saying about the dentist? This is one of the best ways to judge the expertise and professionalism of the dentists. Internet has made it possible for patients to offer a feedback on the experience they had during and after the cosmetic dentistry procedure. However don’t base your decision on a few adverse reviews that you read on the Internet as some people are in the habit of criticizing professionals.

Technology & Treatment Process    

What kind of technology is the dentist using at the clinic? Does the clinic have the latest equipment to perform digitalx-rays, laser dentistry, crowns and porcelain veneers etc.? There have has been huge advancement in cosmetic dentistry and you need to be sure that the dentist has expertise and experience in using the latest technology for your treatment. Also read through the details of the different procedures this would give you a fair idea of the treatment process, the achievable results and the time required.

Before And After Photos   

This one is really important as it offers you the perfect idea of what the dentist has achieved in the past and what he/she is capable of. While there may be dozens of before and after photographs of different procedures you need to take note of the ones that are of the procedure that you plan to undergo. 

Schedule Location

It is important for you to consider these things before you seek an appointment with the dentist. If you have any confusion and doubts in your mind, make sure you ask for clarification from the dental office. A professional dentist would never shy away from answering your queries and you need to develop the confidence in the dentist to achieve desirable results with your procedure. 

Teeth Whitening Safety Tips

All of us desire to have shiny while pearls. They add to your looks and also increase your confidence and makes up for a pleasing personality. You would go to any length to achieve a dazzling smile. Thanks to the number of teeth whitening products available in the market, achieving a beautiful smile is well within your reach. From visiting a dentist’s office to using a number of over the counter solutions, you have a number of options to explore. Though side effects of teeth whitening aren’t very common, you need to exercise precautions to minimize the chances of side effects. Here in this brief write-up we shall discuss a number of teeth whitening safety tips. 

Pay Visit To A Dental Office   
 

Before you get going with teeth whitening it is important that you see your dentist first. The dentist would carry out a thorough cleaning and mouth examination to determine the best solution for your teeth whitening. This is important even if you want to use over the counter medication as they can affect the health of your teeth and gums if you have any emerging problem. A dentist would look for cavities, infection in your gums and other problems before suggesting a solution that is safe for your teeth and gums. They would also educate you on the amount of whitening you can expect with these products. 

Choose Products Wisely    

Most at-home teeth whitening products are made of peroxides, typically carbamide peroxide that can vary in their volume/volume percent. Typically you would find products ranging from 10% to 20%. To start with you need to choose peroxide levels somewhere in the bottom of the range of in the middle. If this product doesn’t bother your mouth or doesn’t provide you the desired whitening you need to choose a higher range of peroxide. You may also ask your dentist to suggest you a range during your visit. If the product causes any adverse side effects, stop immediately and consult with dentist.    
Follow Instructions Carefully   

Before you get going with your teeth whitening, you need to follow instructions mentioned in the teeth whitening product carefully. This is important even if you have used similar products in the past.     Never leave the strips or gels any longer that it is advised as this can damage your teeth and cause sores in the gums. You must religiously avoid eating food immediately after whitening and also avoid soda, sports drinks and acidic for a few hours after you have use these products. They can react with peroxides and corrode your teeth. 

When to Avoid Whitening   

 
Pregnant women and nursing mothers shouldn’t use teeth whitening products. Though this isn’t known to cause any major side effects to the infants, it should be done to be on the safe side. Also if you have porcelain or composite dental crowns, avoid whitening at home as this can lead to uneven shades in your teeth and make your smile look bad. Consult your dentist and you may need to undergo clinical whitening. 

Never Over Do It    

Last but not the least, you should never try and over-do teeth whitening. A once-a-month whitening session is usually advised initially and when you have achieved a desired shade you need to do it once a year or every six months. Over doing it can damage your teeth and you should avoid it at any cost. 

Most whitening products make your teeth sensitive but this only lasts for a short span of time. If tooth sensitivity is bothering you, get in touch with your dentist immediately.

What's the Difference Between Gingivitis and Periodontitis?

Gingivitis and periodontitis are two terms which are exceedingly used interchangeably. But they are two different conditions, both of which fall under the spectrum of periodontal disease. Gum diseases are on the whole known as periodontal disease. It begins with bacterial growth and can lead to severe problems such as tooth loss if not treated in time.  

Gingivitis  
 

Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums. It is caused when excess plaque gathers around the teeth. Unhealthy oral hygiene, irregular brushing and flossing can eventually lead to gingivitis. If you are experiencing red, swollen gums orgums that tend to bleed easily you could be suffering from gingivitis. Gingivitis usually occurs before periodontitis or gum disease. However, not all cases of gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. 

At the stage of gingivitis, your gums may swell up and cause irritation but the teeth will continue to be firmly placed on their sockets. At this stage, no bone or tissue is damaged.
 

Gingivitis can be cured by following a few things regularly, such as –

• Brushing teeth twice daily
• Flossing at least once daily. If necessary, you can also floss twice a day.
• Using a non-alcohol-based fluoride mouthwash that doesn’t hit the gums sharply.  

Periodontitis (Gum Disease)    

Periodontal disease or periodontitis happens not just when you have inflamed gums but with infection. Gum infection can be the result of bacteria built up in the plaque, tartar and in the gum tissues. The infection can get so severe that the body’s immune system cannot heal it any longer. You can determine how severe the gum disease is by the following ways –

• Periodontal Probe – Take a little rule and measure how well the gums are attached to the teeth. If you have a pocket as long as 3mm, you are safe. But if the 3mm pocket is bleeding, it could be gingivitis. Over 4mm deep pocket which is bleeding and even has pus can be periodontitis.
• X-Ray –An x-ray will help you assess the amount of tartar accumulation. If large pieces are seen on the x-ray, it indicates that there is a high probability of gum disease.
• Bone Loss –If there is considerable bone loss, as identified on x-rays, you are definitely suffering for gum disease. Bone loss happens when the gum disease is in its advanced stage and chemicals and enzymes start destroying the bones.

How to Identify Whether You Are Suffering From Gingivitis or Periodontitis?  
 

Since gingivitis and periodontitis are often interchangeably used (even by dentists) you could mistake one for the other. However, there are certain ways to tell the difference –

• Periodontitis rarely happens to teenagers. They can however develop gingivitis. Hence age is considered a deciding factor
• If you are regularly experiencing pain, it could be a sign of either gingivitis or periodontitis. When you feel the pain while chewing, it could be a sign that gingivitis is slowly progressing to periodontitis.
• The condition of your tooth can also indicate whether you have gingivitis or periodontitis. You have gingivitis you will regularly see your gums swollen, irritated or red. However, the teeth will be firmly placed. But if your tooth is loose, you are more likely to suffer from periodontitis.  
• Bad breath is also a sign of gingivitis that is slowly progressing to periodontitis. In such cases bad breath is the result of excess bacteria in the mouth.

Gingivitis can be easily treated if diagnosed early. Periodontitis is a more severe disease and needs immediate treatment by a dentist.