The Evolution of Root Canal Therapy

While a root canal may have been painful in the past, that’s no longer true. With advancements in dental tools and microscopes, a root canal can be performed without any complications — and perhaps more importantly, patients will remain comfortable at all times.

Let’s look at some impressive innovations and how they are now applied when dealing with an infected tooth.

All About the Instrumentation

Due to cutting-edge machining techniques, the instruments used in a typical root canal are much more precise than in the past. These are then combined with powerful magnification techniques to ensure that the infection is removed — and that nearby tissues are now damaged).

Furthermore, these tools allow the process to be completed within a much quicker period of time. And a local anesthetic ensures you will feel comfortable and pain-free during the treatment. Patients will obviously be pleased with such benefits!

The Targeted Use of Anaesthesia

local anaesthesia is the main reason why root canals are no longer painful. As opposed to general sedatives — which will often result in feelings of grogginess and disorientation — local anaesthesia does not impact your entire body.

A dentist will administer this anaesthesia before the procedure begins and once it has taken full effect, you will not feel any type of pain. While you might be slightly sore once the anaesthesia wears off, this is a small price to pay when we consider the negative consequences of leaving an infected tooth untreated.

Crowns and Fillings Have Become Commonplace

In the past, the use of a dental crown following a root canal was not commonplace. This slightly increased the risk that a tooth could become re-infected. Crowns are now nearly always used. Also, fillings are applied in a different manner before the crown is put into place. The use of warm gutta percha increases the density of this filling, helping to strengthen the tooth itself.

We can now see that root canals have evolved in leaps and bounds over the past few decades. this is why it makes little sense to fear such a treatment if it is required. Should you suspect that a problem is present, be sure to speak with your dentist as soon as possible. You will be amazed with the solutions at your disposal!

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How a Pregnant Woman’s Oral Health Can Impact Her Child

There are many health concerns which must be addressed by pregnant women. Examples include (but are certainly not limited to) getting plenty of sleep, eating the right foods, and using specific vitamin supplements. Unfortunately, oral health is often overlooked.

This can cause potentially serious issues that may impact the development of the fetus before birth. What are some potential hazards — and what steps can soon-to-be mothers take to ensure that their child remains healthy? Let’s take a look at what the professionals have to say.

Gum Disease and Gingivitis

While some women may temporarily experience bleeding gums, the presence of gum disease is always a cause for concern. This signals that bacteria have spread below the gumline and in some cases, into the bloodstream.

Studies have linked gum disease to serious conditions such as low birth weight and premature births. This is why it is important to have this condition evaluated and addressed as soon as possible.

The Surprising Role of Cavities

Another interesting finding involves pregnant women who have one or more cavities. Once again, the presence of cavities is an indication of bacteria within the oral cavity. If a cavity is left untreated, this bacteria could very well be transmitted to a developing fetus.

A pregnant woman who does not address cavities will give birth to a child that is three times as likely to suffer from tooth decay. Thus, always be sure to have the condition of your teeth checked on a regular basis (even if you do not believe any cavities are present).

Always Adopt a Proactive Approach

Some women falsely believe that dental work is dangerous during their pregnancy. Thankfully, nothing could be further from the truth. Let’s also remember that those with existing conditions (such as gum disease) may begin to experience worse symptoms when they are pregnant.

The best way to avoid these complications is to speak with your dentist at the first sign of trouble. Also, make it a point to schedule regular appointments for check-ups as well as for timely cleanings.

Regarding the health of your unborn child, nothing should be taken for granted. With a bit of foresight and by adopting a proactive mindset, the health of your little one will be optimal

Keep Your Smile Intact with Regular Dental Visits

When was the last time that you visited the dentist? Do you schedule regular appointments or are they put off until the last possible minute?

The simple fact of the matter is that dental appointments are pivotal if we hope avoid serious problems. Simply stated, oral health should never be taken for granted.

What are some of the reasons why visiting the dentist is absolutely essential in regard to your teeth and gums? What types of issues can be averted by embracing a more proactive stance? Let’s take a look at these questions in a bit more detail.

Catching Problems at an Early Stage

One primary concern is associated with spotting a potential issue before real damage occurs. For instance, it is much easier to treat a minor cavity as opposed to performing an entire root canal due to the presence of a massive infection.

In the same respect, it is often possible to reverse the effects of receding gums before they develop into periodontal disease. As many individuals will not notice that a problem is present until it is too late, scheduling an appoint with a dentist is the best way to remain one step ahead of the game.

Your dentist can also detect conditions like bruxism (grinding teeth), sleep apnea or acid reflux by just looking at your teeth.

A Bit of Preventative Maintenance Goes a Long Way

We need to remember that dentists can also help to ensure a bright and attractive smile even if no major issues are present. For example, they will give teeth a good cleaning to brighten teeth and remove plaque — and can use whitening techniques if your teeth are stained.

Some might also provide fluoride treatments, an excellent way to maintain the health and durability of your tooth enamel. There could also be times when a series of x-rays will be performed if you are considering corrective orthodontic measures such as braces or the Invisalign system.

Taking the First Step

Thanks to how far this technology has evolved in recent years, even those with severe dental anxiety should put their fears aside. After all, it makes a great deal of sense to consult with an expert at the first sign of trouble if you hope to avoid serious complications.

If you happen to fear the dentist, be sure to discuss these feelings. Your dentist will be more than happy to provide additional options so that you can obtain targeted solutions at the appropriate times.

Do Genetics Play a Role in Oral Health?

Certain diseases are associated with hereditary risks. For instance, cancer, obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure risks can have a genetic component.

However, did you know that the health of your teeth and gums might also be influenced by factors which are not necessarily within your complete control? The good news is, you can offset the potential risks.

Gum Disease

A growing body of evidence suggests that gum disease may be impacted by genetics. For example, you are at a higher risk of developing this condition if at least one of your parents has been diagnosed in the past. Other variables such as environmental factors and lifestyle habits will also play a crucial role.

Tooth Decay

We are all aware that proper brushing and flossing alongside a healthy diet are some of the best ways to prevent cavities. However, your genes will also have an influence upon your susceptibility to tooth decay. Other evidence suggests that harmful bacteria may be passed from children due to poor hygienic practices (such as when sharing eating utensils).

Once again, embracing the proper oral care habits is the best way to mitigate these factors. It has likewise been shown that the development of healthy tooth enamel can be influenced by genetic factors.

Misaligned Teeth

Crooked teeth share a hereditary component. In other words, parents who may have required orthodontic work in the past are more likely to pass this trait to their child. The issue here is that such misalignments can also lead to oral health problems due to the fact that crooked teeth are harder to clean.

Taking a Proactive Stance

It is clear to see that genes can have a profound impact upon the health of our teeth and gums. However, it is just as important to highlight other factors that are well within our control.

Always be sure to adopt the proper brushing and flossing techniques. Implement a healthy diet and drink plenty of water so that your mouth remains hydrated. Speak with your dentist at the first sign of trouble, as small issues can be corrected before they become more serious problems.

What is TMJ Disorder and How is it Treated?

Do you often grind your teeth? Do you awake in the morning with a sore jaw or unexplained headaches? If so, you may be suffering from a condition known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.

TMJ disorder can sometimes occur if the jaw joints do not properly align with one another. As a result, the process of biting becomes more challenging. This places stress upon the surrounding bones, ligaments and muscles. This is also the reason why those who regularly grind their teeth (bruxism) will often exhibit physical signs of damage (such as worn enamel or chips).

It is likewise important to point out that stress can also play a role on occasion. Some individuals inadvertently grind their teeth, possibly exacerbating the symptoms of TMJ disorder. The issue here is that this often occurs during the overnight hours. However, you will be pleased to learn that dentists have developed a handful of effective treatment options. Let’s take a look at your choices as well as what each entails.

How Will Professionals Treat TMJ Disorder?

One approach will involve the use of a customised mouthguard. It is moulded around the unique dimensions of your mouth and it will be worn during the overnight hours. The main intention of this device is to prevent your upper and lower teeth from grinding against one another.

You might also be fitted with a series of splints. These splints will normally fit over either your top or bottom set of teeth. Their purpose is to slowly guide your jaw into a more natural position, helping to reduce discomfort while lessening the chances that grinding will occur.

This condition can also be related to psychological stress Everyone reacts to stress differently. Some individuals unconsciously grind their teeth against one another (this is known as bruxism within the dental community).

While mouthguards and splints may help, it is just as important to recognise the symptoms of stress so that you can discover healthier coping mechanisms (such as meditating, exercise or performing a fun activity).

The bottom line is that TMJ disorder can cause significant damage to your teeth and mouth if remains unchecked. it is therefore crucial to speak with your dentist if you suspect that you may be suffering from this condition.

Damon Braces For Your Child? For You?

Braces are some of the most popular orthodontic treatments on the market due to their well-established benefits. However, some children may be wary about being fitted — as they don’t want the noticeable metal braces or the discomfort.

One interesting alternative which has a growing popularity involves a system known as Damon braces. How do these braces function and what benefits can they provide — for children and adults?

A Quick Look at Damon Braces

Traditional metal braces involve a series of metal brackets that are connected to rubber bands. The main intention is to straighten crooked teeth over time by applying certain amounts of pressure to specific areas.

However, the aesthetics of metal braces leave much to be desired. Another potential drawback is the fact that the rubber bands can be painful due to the amount of pressure that they place upon nearby teeth.

Damon braces do not suffer from these pitfalls. The brackets themselves are clear, with the appearance of natural tooth enamel. Damon braces also utilise a system that does not require rubber bands. Therefore, children will experience much less discomfort throughout the treatment — key to a successful outcome.

Convenience and Simplicity

Children are often wary about visiting the dentist or orthodontist. The good news is that Damon braces will not need to be adjusted as frequently. Fewer sessions equate to less pain immediately after an adjustment. This is great news for children and adults alike.

The rather unobtrusive nature of Damon braces is likewise important in terms of cleaning and maintenance. As food particles are less likely to become trapped around the brackets, the chances of developing tooth decay are dramatically reduced. Children can also brush and floss with less effort, crucial in terms of avoiding issues such as cavities and gum disease.

We can now begin to appreciate why Damon braces are becoming popular for both children and adults alike.

Would you like to learn more about how these unique systems function? Are Damon braces the right choice for your child or teenager — or for an adult?

In either case, speak with Danny the Dentist. He will be able to explain this system in greater detail and to point you in the right direction.

Why Would a Tooth Become Infected?

How confident are you about the status of your oral health? Have you suffered from cavities and gum disease over the years? Or are you one of the lucky few who seems to have inherited a trouble-free mouth?

Unfortunately, most of us fall into the first category. While issues such as cavities are indeed troublesome, the fact of the matter is that more serious conditions may arise on occasion.

One common example involves a tooth infection. What might cause such an infection? What are a handful of symptoms to recognise?

What Causes a Tooth Infection?

Tooth infections may result from a handful of situations. Perhaps the most well-known involves a cavity that has been allowed to progress to the point where underlying tissues become damaged. If bacteria are allowed to penetrate into the pulp and the nerve, an infection can occur. This will require immediate treatment in order to avoid even more problems.

An injury (such as chipping or cracking a tooth) may also allow bacteria to enter the tooth. Even teeth grinding (known as bruxism) can increase the chances of developing an infection. Thus, even seemingly small imperfections should be examined by a professional to determine if any issues are present.

Damage to a dental restoration such as a bridge or losing a filling are other scenarios to recognise. In either of these cases, sensitive portions of the teeth and/or gums may become exposed to harmful bacteria. If you suspect that a restoration has broken or become dislodged, be sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist.

What Symptoms May be Present?

Although there are times when you will not feel any type of pain, most individuals will begin to experience discomfort in the event of an infection. Here are some common signals that a dentist is needed:

Sensitivity in one or more teeth.
Pain that seems to radiate towards the ear, neck or jaw.
A foul taste or smell within your mouth.

Even seemingly minor infections can soon evolve into more worrying situations. There are even times when an infection may spread to other portions of your body. This is why it is always better to be safe than sorry. Schedule an appointment with your dentist at the first sign of trouble.

A Quick Look at the Causes of Receding Gums

Have you noticed that your teeth have become sensitive to hot and cold foods/drinks? If so, this situation should never be taken likely.

The soft tissue of your gums is intended to protect your teeth and without its presence, a host of problems may develop. This is why speaking with a dentist at the first sign of trouble is the best way to avoid more in-depth interventions in the future.

It is just as important to appreciate some of the main causes of receding gums. Let’s take a quick look at a handful of common situations. You can then consult with a professional to better understand what treatments may be required.

Bruxism

Believe it or not, grinding your teeth (a condition known as bruxism) can negatively impact your gums. Excessive amounts of pressure can cause this soft tissue to become inflamed, resulting in recession if left unchecked.

Improperly Aligned Teeth

The main issue with crooked or otherwise misaligned teeth is that they are often more difficult to clean. As a result, individuals are at a higher risk of developing infections, cavities and other issues. Let’s also remember that uneven amounts of pressure can affect the underlying tissues, resulting in receding gums.

Gum Disease

This is arguably the most well-known cause of receding gums. If the proper oral care techniques are not embraced, bacteria will accumulate around the teeth. Some of these bacteria may eventually make their way beneath the gum line. This causes nearby tissues to pull away from the surfaces of your teeth. If left untreated, this condition can lead to more serious issues that will require professional intervention to correct.

Poor and/or Aggressive Brushing Habits

In terms of brushing and flossing, the phrase “too much of a good thing” is entirely relevant. Aggressive brushing can physically damage the gums, causing them to recede. This is even more likely when referring to those who use a toothbrush with extremely stiff bristles. It is much better to employ softer bristles so that they will not inflame the gums and the surrounding soft tissues.

Are you concerned about the health of your gums? Are teeth sensitive and do gums bleed when brushing? If so, it is prudent to speak with a dentist at the first sign of trouble. He or she will be able to offer a host of effective solutions at the right times.

Is it Wise to Remove a Loose Baby Tooth?

Children have multiple stages of development — and one of the most memorable is when they lose their first tooth. Of course, this process is absolutely necessary so that permanent teeth can enter.

While some of our memories may involve the “tooth fairy”, others are associated with having a loose tooth removed before its time. Is it wise for parents to force such a tooth out?

Let us first examine why removing a premature tooth is not wise before looking at a handful of alternative strategies.

Better Left Untouched

Teeth become loose for a reason, to allow the adult teeth to emerge. We need to remember that nature will eventually take its course. Parents who choose to expedite this process can cause their child to endure a significant amount of pain and discomfort. Instead, the tooth will work its way out in due time. In the event that it seems to be impeding the entrance of a permanent tooth, it is best to consult with a dentist.

How to Encourage a Loose Tooth to Fall Out

In the vast majority of cases, baby teeth (also known as deciduous teeth) will become dislodged without any need for intervention. The good news is that there are other ways to speed up the process. For example, children should be allowed to play with a loose tooth with their tongue. They will only wiggle it until pain is perceived, so there is little danger with this approach.

What if a tooth appears to be literally hanging on by a thread? In this case, parents can wrap their fingers in a tissue and gently grab the tooth. A small amount of force may complete the process. If this does not produce results, the tooth should be left alone until it becomes looser.

Working with Professionals

In the event that a baby tooth appears to be blocking a permanent tooth, it is always prudent to consult with a dentist or an oral care specialist. These individuals will be able to take a closer look in order to determine what steps (if any) need to be taken. Thankfully, the majority of baby teeth will fall out without the need for any type of intervention.

Read the full story here:

https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/should-you-pull-your-childs-loose-tooth/

Which Foods Are Good For Your Oral Health?

Brushing your teeth and visiting your dentist every six months can help keep your teeth healthy. But diet is also essential in preventing tooth decay and gum disease. Below are some of the foods that will benefit your health.

Key takeaways:

• All dark leafy greens such as spinach, kale, collard greens and swiss chard are good for your oral health. They are rich in fibre and have calcium and phosphorus which strengthen your tooth enamel. Spinach also has iron, vitamin c and vitamin k which promote gum health.

• Fatty fish such as salmon have omega 3 acids and vitamin D which help in preventing gum disease.

• Sweet potatoes are rich in Vitamin A which supports healthy gum tissue and encourage the production of keratin which is a protein that helps strengthen the tooth enamel.

Begin eating healthy and impress your dentist during your next checkup.

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