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BRACES AND WISDOM TEETH

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Braces and wisdom teeth often intersect in dental care, and there are a few key points to
consider:

1. Timing of Wisdom Teeth Removal: Wisdom teeth, or third molars, often emerge in late
adolescence or early adulthood. If you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces,
your orthodontist might recommend removing your wisdom teeth if they’re likely to
cause crowding or other issues with your alignment. Sometimes, it’s better to remove
them before braces are applied, while other times, it might be done concurrently or after
treatment, depending on your specific situation.

2. Impact on Orthodontic Treatment: If wisdom teeth come in while you have braces,
they can sometimes push against your other teeth and affect the alignment. Your
orthodontist will monitor this and might suggest removal if it seems like the wisdom teeth
are interfering with the movement of your teeth.

 

3. Orthodontic Planning: Before starting braces, your orthodontist will likely take X-rays
to assess the position of your wisdom teeth. This helps in planning whether they need to
be removed and when it should be done in relation to your orthodontic treatment.

4. Orthodontic treatment relapse: can sometimes cause problems with the alignment of
your teeth. If you had orthodontic treatment and then had your wisdom teeth come in,
they might exert pressure on your other teeth, potentially causing a relapse of alignment
in the lower anterior teeth (the front teeth).

 

5. Post-Removal Care: If you do have wisdom teeth removed during or after braces
treatment, you’ll need to follow specific aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing
and to avoid complications that might affect your braces.
It’s always a good idea to discuss your specific situation with both your orthodontist and oral
surgeon to determine the best course of action

Understanding Post-Operative Symptoms After Wisdom Tooth Removal

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Understanding Post-Operative Symptoms After Wisdom Tooth Removal

Undergoing the removal of an impacted wisdom tooth can be a significant procedure, and it’s essential to be prepared for the post-operative experience. While the specifics can vary from person to person, several common symptoms are typically expected after the surgery.

 

  1. Pain and Discomfort: It’s normal to experience some degree of pain and discomfort in the days following the procedure. This is usually managed effectively with prescribed pain medication or over-the-counter pain relievers. Applying an ice pack to the affected area can also help reduce swelling and numb the pain.
  2. Swelling: Swelling is a common post-operative symptom, particularly around the jaw and cheeks. This can peak within the first 48 hours and then gradually subside. Keeping your head elevated and using ice packs can minimize swelling.

 

  1. Bruising: Bruising may develop in the area around your mouth and cheeks. This typically resolves on its own within a week or so.
  2. Bleeding: Some bleeding is normal immediately after the extraction. This usually slows down and stops within a few hours. If bleeding persists, gently biting on a gauze pad can help, and it’s important to avoid any actions that might dislodge the blood clot forming in the extraction site.
  3. Limited Mouth Opening: You might find it difficult to open your mouth fully for a few days. This is due to muscle soreness and swelling but should improve gradually.

 

  1. Stiffness and Tenderness: The area around the extraction site may feel tender and stiff. This is a normal part of the healing process and should ease over time.

Adhering to post-operative care instructions, such as keeping the area clean and following your dentist’s recommendations, can help speed up recovery and reduce the risk of complications. If symptoms seem severe or persist beyond the expected recovery period, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dental professional.

 

TOOTH DECAY

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      TOOTH DECAY

Tooth decay begins when bacteria in your mouth makes acid that attacks the tooth surface (enamel) leading to small to big holes in the tooth called cavity.

If left untreated, it leads to pain, infection or even tooth loss.

 

Pregnancy Gingivitis- Gum disease during Pregnancy

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Pregnancy Gingivitis- Gum disease during Pregnancy

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make gums more vulnerable to plaque and therefore more prone to inflammation and bleeding gums. This is called pregnancy gingivitis.

Measures to prevent Pregnancy Gingivitis:

  • Practice good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth carefully twice a day for 2 minutes with a soft toothbrush & fluoridated toothpaste.
  • Regular Flossing to prevent food lodgment in between teeth.
  • Avoid having sugary food and gluten based food items too often.
  • If you have vomiting, rinse your mouth with plain water to prevent acid erosion of teeth.
  • If you notice any redness or gum swelling, it could be due to some deposits of tartar in between your teeth. It is important to get those deposits removed to make your gums healthy again.
  • Its always beneficial, if you visit the dentist before planning for pregnancy as the gum disease aggravates during pregnancy.
  • During pregnancy, always try to make at least one visit if you are not very regular with your dental appointments. Routine dental care can be done any time during pregnancy. For more invasive treatments, second trimester is considered safe comparatively.
  • When you go to the dentist, make sure they know you’re pregnant. Dental X rays are not advisable during pregnancy.

FACTORS CAUSING DENTAL DECAY

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FACTORS CAUSING DENTAL DECAY

  1. Teeth quality

When baby’s teeth begin to grow, the surface of the teeth are still soft enamel. Over time, the teeth mature in a process where calcium helps to harden the enamel. This will reduce the tooth susceptibility to tooth decay

  1. Decay-causing bacteria

Decay-causing bacteria is the most important cause of cavities. These bacteria adhere to the surface of the tooth. Sugar is a source of food for the bacteria. Then many other bacteria adhere, proliferate, and release acid that dissolves the teeth. This begins the formation of a cavity.

  1. Sugar (sweets, juice, etc.)

Consuming a lot of sugary foods, such as candies, gummies, and sweet juice, can increase the number of bacteria living on your teeth. This can ultimately lead to cause tooth decay. The saliva of a child who eats a lot of sugary foods and drinks becomes sticky. This makes it difficult to completely remove clumps of bacteria called plaque, even if his/her teeth are brushed properly. Consequently, the child is susceptible to tooth decay.

  1. Time and saliva

if teeth are exposed to sugar for a long time, bacteria proliferate forming a plaque. As a result, the plaque adheres to the surface of the teeth where cavities can begin to form. The saliva can neutralize the acid inside of the mouth after having a meal. However, eating at irregular times repeatedly can cause the saliva not to function properly, leaving acid inside the mouth and ultimately causing the teeth to dissolve or demineralize.

HOW YOUR 12 YEAR MOLARS AFFECT YOUR ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT

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The eruption of 12 year old molars, also known as second molars, can significantly impact
orthodontic treatment. Here’s how:
1. Alignment and bite: The 12-year old molars are crucial for achieving a proper bite
(occlusion). As they emerge, they can shift the position of other teeth, potentially
affecting the overall alignment that braces or other orthodontic devices are trying to
achieve.

2. Timing of treatment: Orthodontists often wait for the 12 year old molars to emerge
before finalizing or adjusting a treatment plan. This ensures that any movement or
changes caused by these molars can be accounted for in the treatment.

           

3. Space considerations: The eruption of second molars can impact the available space in
the mouth. If there isn’t enough space, it might lead to crowding or misalignment, which
could require adjustments in orthodontic appliances or, in some cases, the removal of
teeth to create space.

4. Retention phase: After braces are removed, retainers are used to maintain teeth position.
The eruption of 12 year old molars during this phase might necessitate adjustments to
retainers to ensure they fit properly and continue to hold the teeth in their desired
positions

 

5. Potential for additional treatment: If the second molars do not erupt as expected or
cause significant misalignment, additional orthodontic treatment might be required, even
if the initial phase of treatment was successful.

In summary, the eruption of the 12 year old molars is a critical factor in orthodontic planning and
treatment, affecting timing, alignment, and the overall success of the treatment.

 

What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea – How Can Dentists Help?

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Sleep is vital to our health and well-being, yet many people suffer from sleep disorders that go unnoticed. One such condition is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA),
a common yet often underdiagnosed disorder that can have serious health implications. As awareness of OSA grows, i
t’s important to recognize not only the symptoms and risks but also the role that dentists can play in managing this condition.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding OSA and how your dentist can be a key player in your treatment.

 

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive Sleep Apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing due to the relaxation of throat muscles,
which blocks the airway. These interruptions can last from a few seconds to minutes and occur multiple times throughout the night.
The result is fragmented sleep and reduced oxygen levels, which can lead to a host of health problems, including cardiovascular issues,
diabetes, and impaired cognitive function

The Importance of Early Diagnosis and Treatment

Untreated OSA can lead to severe health complications, including:

  • Cardiovascular Problems: Increased risk of hypertension, heart disease, and stroke.
  • Metabolic Issues: Higher likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes due to insulin resistance.
  • Mental Health Challenges: Elevated risk of depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment due to poor sleep quality.
  • Reduced Quality of Life: Persistent fatigue can impact daily activities, work performance, and overall well-being.

 

How Dentists Can Help

While primary care physicians and sleep specialists are essential in diagnosing and managing OSA, dentists also play a vital role in treatment and care. Here’s how:

  1. Early Detection

Dentists are often among the first to notice signs of OSA. During routine dental exams, they can identify physical indicators such as:

  • Enlarged Tonsils: May suggest potential airway obstruction.
  • A Large Tongue: Could contribute to airway blockage.
  • Crowded Oropharyngeal Space: May indicate a predisposition to sleep apnea.

By noting these signs and asking about symptoms like snoring and daytime sleepiness, dentists can help identify patients who may need further evaluation.

  1. Oral Appliances

 

For patients diagnosed with mild to moderate OSA, oral appliances (also known as mandibular advancement devices) can be an effective treatment.
These devices work by repositioning the lower jaw and tongue to keep the airway open during sleep. Dentists can:

  • Design and Fit: Custom-create oral appliances to ensure they fit comfortably and effectively.
  • Adjust as Needed: Make modifications to optimize the device’s performance and patient comfort.
  • Monitor Progress: Regular follow-ups to assess the device’s effectiveness and make necessary adjustments.

 

  1. Collaboration with Sleep Specialists

Dentists frequently collaborate with sleep specialists to provide comprehensive care. This partnership can involve:

  • Interpreting Sleep Studies: Assisting in understanding results from sleep studies.
  • Coordinating Treatment Plans: Integrating oral appliance therapy with other treatment modalities, such as CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure), if needed.
  • Ongoing Care: Offering continued support and monitoring to ensure effective management of OSA.

 

  1. Patient Education

Educating patients about OSA and its treatment options is a critical part of dental care. Dentists can:

  • Provide Information: Explain the condition, treatment options, and the importance of adherence to therapy.
  • Offer Lifestyle Advice: Suggest lifestyle changes that can complement treatment, such as weight management and smoking cessation.
  • Support Adherence: Encourage patients to follow treatment plans and attend regular check-ups.

 

Conclusion

Obstructive Sleep Apnea is a serious condition that can affect many aspects of health and quality of life.
Recognizing its signs and seeking appropriate treatment is crucial. Dentists are increasingly playing a pivotal role in managing OSA,
from early detection and providing oral appliances to collaborating with other healthcare providers and educating patients.

If you suspect you may have OSA, or if you have symptoms that could indicate the condition, don’t hesitate to consult your dentist.
They can be an invaluable part of your care team, helping to improve your sleep, health, and overall well-being.
Don’t let sleep apnea disrupt your life —take action today for a healthier tomorrow.

Magnification in Dentistry

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“Better you see the better you treat”

What is magnification in dentistry ?

Dentistry has become more sophisticated and complex thus requiring precise
treatment .Practice of using magnification with loupes or microscope enhances
the vision and the treatment area. This will increase the efficiency of the
treatment.

Types of magnification used in dentistry?

1. loupes
2. surgical operating microscope.

Benefits of using magnification ?

1. Increases the precision of treatment
2. More conservative treatment
3. Reduces chair side time
4. Avoid any errors

 

Mouth Ulcers: A Viral Connection

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Mouth ulcers, those pesky sores that appear inside the mouth, can often be linked to viral infections, particularly during times of fever. These ulcers are not only painful but can also indicate a broader health issue.

Cause:

Viral infections like the common cold or flu are notorious for causing a spike in body temperature, leading to fever. This elevated temperature can weaken the body’s defenses, including the mucous membranes in the mouth. As a result, these membranes become more susceptible to irritation and subsequent ulcer formation.

Associated symptoms:

The ulcers themselves typically manifest as small, round sores with a white or yellow center and a red border. They can appear on the lips, inner cheeks, gums, tongue, or roof of the mouth

Apart from fever, other symptoms like fatigue, body aches, and sore throat may accompany these ulcers, indicating the presence of a viral infection.

 

Treatment:

Managing mouth ulcers associated with viral infections involves addressing both the underlying illness and the symptoms. Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to reduce fever can help alleviate systemic symptoms. Topical treatments such as mouthwashes containing analgesics or antimicrobial agents can provide relief directly to the ulcers, promoting healing and easing discomfort.

If mouth ulcers persist for more than a week, recur frequently, or are accompanied by severe symptoms, seeking medical advice is crucial. A healthcare provider can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatments to manage both the viral infection and the associated mouth ulcers effectively. By addressing these issues promptly, individuals can expedite their recovery and return to normal health sooner.

 Teeth Whitening

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 Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening /bleaching is a process of lightening the color of human teeth. It is often desirable when teeth become yellow over time for many reasons and can be achieved by changing intrinsic and extrinsic stains of enamel.

There are two types of whitening:-

  1. Home

Teeth whitening at home with a professional, custom whitening kit is just as effective house whitening option. The only difference between a home teeth whitening kit and laser teeth whitening is that you’re applying the product a little bit each day instead of applying it all at once.

Whitening at home makes it simple to adapt your teeth whitening kit to your specific needs.

  1. Office

Zoom teeth whitening is the most requested whitening procedure by patients because it is proven to be safe, effective, and conveniently fast and is performed only by professional dentists.

This gentle yet powerful teeth whitening procedure uses a blue LED light-activated gel. Zoom Teeth Whitening is clinically proven to whiten your teeth up to 8 shades brighter!

   Indications:

  1. Intrinsic tooth staining
  2. Aesthetics
  3. Dental Fluorosis
  4. Internal bleaching after the endodontic procedure
  5. Tetracycline stains.

  Contraindications:

  1. Sensitive teeth.
  2. Enamel defects
  3. Cracks /exposed dentine
  4. Periodontal diseases
  5. Children under 16 years.
  6. Pregnant/lactating mothers.

  Frequently asked questions

  1. How much does the procedure take?

The procedure generally takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.

  1. How long will the whitening last?

When done by a professional, it can last 2-3 years. Over-the-counter home whitening products may only last a few months.

  1. Does it damage the tooth?

No, while there may be some side effects but whitening is completely safe on tooth enamel.

  1. How often can we do teeth whitening?

We recommend people not to do whitening too often once a year is a good choice whether at home or dental office.

 

 

Attrition of Teeth

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Attrition of Teeth

Dental attrition is the loss of tooth structure/tissue caused by tooth-on-tooth contact.

The common cause of dental attrition is bruxism, the grinding and clenching of the teeth that occurs during sleep. Bruxism/Grinding can lead to other health problems, such as sleep apnea and temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ) within your jaw.

            Attrition of teeth                                                 Normal teeth

                     

Treatment options:

Treatment will involve a combination of treatments which includes

  • orthodontic treatment to fix tooth alignment (e.g. Invisalign),
  • Dental restorations to fix damaged front and back teeth,(e.g. Veneers, laminates and crowns)
  • treatment for bruxism (e.g. wearing a night guard

                                   Treatment with mouth guards

 

 

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