There are gum diseases that can be treated without the patient having to undergo surgery. A common condition that can be cured without surgery is gingivitis, which can be treated with simple gum therapy methods.
When you smile in front of a mirror, you’re only seeing two-thirds of your teeth. The rest is hidden inside the gums. Gums should never be neglected and should be part of your daily dental health care routine.
When was the last time you bought a new toothbrush? Dentists recommend that they be changed at least every three months, or when the bristles show signs of wear, whichever comes first.
Do you know that an average human produces 25,000 quarts of saliva in a lifetime? That is equivalent to water required to fill 2 swimming pools.
While brushing keeps our teeth in reasonably good condition, there's just no way to get rid of the hardened plaque or tartar at home. As such, regular trips to your dentist are needed as he or she has the necessary equipment to chip away at these rock-like deposits.
What does "impacted" mean? It means the tooth is so far back in your mouth that it may be trapped by your jawbone or gums so that it can't break through properly. Surgery is typically necessary to correct the condition.
There are several ways in which your dentist can help you to control TMJ jaw and facial pain. This includes through over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAI) drugs, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, although sometimes stronger prescription pain killers are prescribed.
The earliest stage of gum disease is gingivitis. Not only is it preventable, but it can also be reversed with proper tooth care and regular dentist visits. If it is left untreated, it can turn into serious, and expensive, periodontal disease.
It is important to find a dentist with whom you can have an open conversation with about your concerns and to be sure that the dentist takes the time to communicate clearly the procedures that he or she recommends.
In addition to a degree, new dentists will also need to take additional exams. One of the exams that you will need to pass is the National Board Dental Examination.
It’s important to remember that proper oral hygiene is about so much more than just the health of your teeth and gums. Some conditions can actually cause more serious health concerns when left untreated.
Did you know that handling gum disease with laser treatment preserves and can even regenerate bone? A laser treatment for periodontal disease works by cleaning teeth and gums (under the gum line), resulting in the total destruction of bacteria and toxins.
Did you know that, because root channels are very fine and have a tendency to trap air bubbles where disinfectant cannot reach, root canals can lead to bacterial regrowth and possibly another infection? On the other hand, water laser procedures sterilize root canals ten times more efficiently than traditional treatments do.
When flossing with braces, it is important to do so carefully to help ensure that the floss does not get caught on the braces themselves and that you are properly removing any food that was in between your teeth and the braces.
Did you know that the largest dental caps in the world aren't owned by a human? They belong to Spike, an elephant at a zoo in Alberta, Canada. The dental caps measure 19 inches long and 5 inches in diameter.
You might already be aware of the fact that tooth enamel is the hardest substance existing in the human body. But do you know that although it is harder than steel, it can break more easily?
Hyperdontia is a medical condition in which an individual has super-numerary (extra) teeth. Sometimes these additionals can erupt and overfill the mouth or, in some instances, they may grow in to replace permanent teeth that were lost.
Does just the thought of visiting the dentist send your anxiety levels through the roof? A recent study published in a respected medical journal may have the answer: five minutes of acupuncture treatment prior to the visit eliminated the problem.
To become a general dentist, one must first finish an appropriate bachelor's degree, followed by a four-year stint in dental school. After earning a degree, the new dentist is then required to take a licensure exam in order to be able to start practicing.
When you reach the back of your mouth while flossing, it is important to also floss behind the molars that are farthest back among your teeth.
When brushing, don't stop at just your teeth and gums. Before you put the old toothbrush away, take a moment to brush your tongue and the inside of your cheeks to get rid of any lingering bacteria.
The primary use of a hard tissue laser is to cut into bone and teeth with extreme precision. Hard tissue lasers are often used in the “prepping” or “shaping” of teeth for composite bonding, which is the removal of small amounts of tooth structure and the repair of worn down dental fillings.
Even though you will be experiencing a more powerful sedative effect, a local anesthetic will still be used. This is necessary to numb the area(s) of the mouth being worked on and to ensure that you do not experience any pain.
Did you know that more women than men are susceptible to TMJ? In fact, more than twice as many women (often during their childbearing years) as men are affected by a TMD such as TMJ. TMJ is also the most common non-dental-related face and jaw pain disorder.