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%.

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.  

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.

15 Tooth Problems You Need To Be Wary About

A smile is the face’s most beautiful accessory. But tooth problems can dampen this accessory and make your face look dull. That is not all – dental problems can have major health implications too! If you care for your teeth, it is best you know more about the different types of tooth problems and how to treat them. 

1. Toothache

Toothache is one of the common dental problems. If you are experiencing toothache, rinse your mouth with warm water, use a floss to remove food caught between the teeth or have a pain reliever.  

2. Stained Teeth

To get rid of stained teeth brush regularly use whitening toothpaste. If your problem is acute, consult a dentist who will use a whitening agent to whiten them.   

3. Cavities

To prevent cavities, brush your teeth twice daily, preferably with fluoride toothpaste. Cut down on snacks. Do not forget to visit the dentist regularly and floss daily.     

4. Chipped Teeth

Dentists term chipped teeth as one of the common dental accidents. Consult the dentist, who will fix a strong resin material to the tooth, replacing the chipped area. You may need a root canal if the injury is serious.  

5. Impacted Teeth

Many adults complain of impacted tooth. This problem occurs when a tooth sticks out against another tooth, bone or soft tissue. If the tooth doesn’t hurt, they should be left alone. In case of major problems, an oral surgery may be necessary.  

6. Cracked Tooth

Sensitive teeth or an injury can cause a cracked molar. If a crack is only on the surface, filling it may be enough. In cases of major cracks, root canaling may be necessary but for deeper cracks, they may be pulled out.   

7. Teeth Sensitivity

Teeth sensitivity can make you stop eating your favourite ice-cream. There can be numerous causes of teeth sensitivity – cavities, worn-our enamel or fillings, gum disease, exposed roots or fractured teeth.    

8. Hyperdontia

An adult should have 32 teeth. But in rare cases, some have extra teeth, a problem known as hyperdontia. In such cases, dentists extract the extra teeth. 

9. Crooked Teeth

Crooked teeth can be easily straighten. Orthodontists often use braces, aligners and retainers to improve the dental health and relieve you of jaw pain.

10. Gap Between Teeth

Gaps between teeth can be easily corrected by visiting an orthodontist who moves the teeth closer using cosmetic solutions such as veneers or bonding. 

11. Gum Problems

Gum bleeding can be early signs of gum disease. They can also be due to plaque or sticky bacteria. To avoid gum bleeding, brush and floss daily. 

12. Grinding Teeth

Do not think that grinding your teeth is a normal habit. It can be due to stress, sleep issues, misaligned teeth etc. Grinding teeth is called bruxism and can loosen the teeth.  

13. Wisdom Teeth

Most adults complain of problems when their wisdom teeth grow. If your wisdom tooth is causing unbearable pain, consult a dentist who will take the necessary action. 

14. Less Room for Flossing

If a regular floss doesn’t fit in between your teeth, switch to a thinner floss or a waxed one. Do not give up flossing as it is a good habit for the well-being of dental health. 

15. Bonding Grills On Teeth

Many use decorative grills on teeth as a fashion statement. In such cases, you need to use good quality grills, preferably those made of gold or silver.  

Caring for your teeth helps you keep them healthy for a long time. Brushing them daily, eating the right food, flossing and consulting the dentist regularly all help in keep the teeth bright and shiny.