We all want beautiful smiles, and beautiful smile means good oral health. Do you know how many ways for the teeth protecting, here you will get six ways for teeth protecting.

People in old age, changes in the teeth will be very clear. Organs of the human teeth chewing, the teeth of a person’s good or bad indirectly related to physical well-being. Digestive function of the elderly poor, can have a good teeth to become more important.

In this regard, the experts informed old friends, adhere to the following dental curing lightsix practices, can you stick to a good teeth:

First, we should actively combat all kinds can cause loose teeth, scattered the disease: Many elderly people have thought my teeth loose, scattered natural scenes, do not demand can not control. This concept is wrong. Clinical seminar found that older loose teeth present, scattered mostly by periodontal disease, dental pulp disease and osteoporosis disease breeds of. Thus, the elderly need to actively combat the disease, is entirely to have a good teeth.

Second, to eat solid food: people pack a layer of enamel on the teeth. Person who often eat some solid food, make this layer of enamel has been destroyed due to excessive wear and tear, or even to show the deep real teeth out, so that the pulp nerves are maintained. This is not only easy to make substantive allergies teeth (back teeth), also easily lead to severe dental air polishercaries and other comparable health education network collected more `.

In addition, severe tooth wear people will form a forward displacement of the teeth, lead to onset of changes in people’s face shape, thus affecting the person’s appearance. Thus, the elderly should be minimal, betel nuts, sugar cane, hazelnut and other solid food, can not go to Kai bottle with his teeth, pulling nails and teeth in order to avoid being damaged.

Third, we should always rinse your mouth, but also regular brushing: Some think that only old people are often able to maintain dental rinse, do not always brush your teeth. In fact, regular rinsing is necessary, but can not be replaced brushing mouthwash. Cleaning teeth, brushing both the appearance of dirt, but also kill bacteria in the mouth. People can brush their teeth ultrasonic cleanerlong-term adherence to avoid the composition of plaque and calculus. Thus, often the elderly should develop the habit of brushing and regular mouthwash.

We all known that smoking is harmful for your health. Also smoking is bad for your oral health, especially the periodontal disease. From this article, you will have a better idea of the relations of smoking and periodontal disease.

According to the recorded material: the human history of smoking more than 500 years, and now smoking has become a very popular hobby.
Over the years, smoking on the human well-being, especially for dental air polishercarrying out the impact of the onset of periodontal disease, oral task made ??a lot of discussion by the task. Has been demonstrated that: smokers gingivitis, acute necrotizing gingivitis, periodontitis than non-smokers the incidence of high. Some people think that smoking is a plaque and calculus accumulation of one of the elements of Medical Education | Education Online Collection, debris index of smokers than non-smokers. Thus, plaque accumulation was significantly increased smokers come to the conclusion. The variety and quality of smoking pros and cons of different effects on the periodontal tissues are also different.

Discussion was made??: the group of 228 people smoking cigarettes and smoke cigars / tobacco group, 153 well-being index for detection of six periodontal consequences Proof: smoking cigarettes smoking group dental x rayplaque accumulation slightly lower than the cigar / tobacco group, plaque accumulation than the absorption Cigars / tobacco group and more; smoking cigarettes bone loss group than smoking cigars / tobacco group is clear, and smoke cigarettes speculation distinct group of alveolar bone loss is due to the nicotine absorbed into the body and its products have sparked a systemic reaction Due. Discuss the consequences of proof: cigarette smoke can induce inflammation of the gums attack. Some people smoke cigarettes to stimulate hamster buccal pouch mucosa, 1 week and found cheek pouch mucosa of patients with congestive heart, looks rough. As an extension of time to stimulate mucosal and more rough. Cigarette smoke also affected the quality of saliva. Smoke stimulation, the increase in saliva flow, saliva of certain trace elements on dental loupesplaque composition and calcification of work, make clear increase in dental plaque.

In addition, the tar in cigarette smoke accumulation in the onset of tooth surface, so that smokers poor oral hygiene, periodontal disease can be a part of stimulus elements, so increasing the inflammation of periodontal tissue.

Orthodontics is a essensial method for dental implants, expecially for child who aged from 7 to 12. And sometimes your dentist may suggest you the best time of dental treatment, time period is also important for Orthodontics.

General speaking, the opportunity to choose orthodontic tooth moving rapidly growing period in the growth period before or too fast.
Following a suitable period of orthodontic match. The first ultrasonic cleanerdeciduous teeth in period. Missing teeth or dentition display showing crossbite (to package Days) and open bite (some teeth could not bite), the correction should be early, treatment is the best age to 6 years old 3 years old, with a course of about 6 month or so. Second, mixed (exchange) teeth in period. Is about 7 years old at the beginning of the beginning of the eruption of permanent teeth at this time born again, teeth grow quickly, bite does not fluctuate, is the multiple malformations of the teeth. Third, permanent teeth in period.

Deciduous teeth have been completed for the second and third pieces when the eruption of another moving rapidly growing season, general for 12 to 18 years or so, then compare the teeth malformation dental bursunderstand moving rapidly growing period in the correction, speed fluctuations in fast and corrective effect.

If the correction period has missed more than 18 years of age can also make adult orthodontics, restore chewing, speech, temporomandibular joint function, so that facial appearance. Serious orthognathic surgery can be treated, the effect is very clear. Thus, to determine the best time for braces is not a relative, a doctor based on the different types of tooth malformation and dental instrumentsindividual growth and development conditions.

However, because the teeth on the number of patients with facial deformities breeds, the timely access to treatment can have a multiplier effect.

Toothbrush and  Floss are a Helpful Cure to Bleeding Gums

A recent published article declares that the use of toothbrush and dental floss are effective on gum bleeding, and people should take a right view of these two kinds of dental equipment.

Oral health staff did discuss the test items, toothbrush and floss key look at two common tools of the oral protective effect. Consequences that, when brushing teeth and tongue cleaning, plus dental floss his assistant, who two weeks after the test problems reduced gingival bleeding by 38%, bad breath problems also will be improved. The use of dental floss daily dental bursoral hygiene is not a group of testers, gingival bleeding sites increased by about 4%.

Bleeding gums and bad breath are usually not well-mouth” first signs “, a long time that will lead to further periodontal disease. Thus, the best way to prevent periodontal disease is to focus on daily oral hygiene care.

Therre are so many causes for gingival bleeding,  if you have the blood in brushing, that would be a simpaton of gingival bleeding.  Bleeding gums causes are diverse, in general the following categories:

Brush their teeth because they do not always stimulate the calculus, so that the plaque attached to the teeth gradually formed after the dental calculus, dental calculus and dental equipmentwill often continue to stimulate the gums can cause gum inflammation and bleeding.

Cavities near the gum stimulation of teeth due to tooth decay, cavities form a dark brown, its edges were sharp and irregular shape, often stimulate the gums and cause bleeding ulcers.

Periodontal disease occurs when the teeth around the lesions, the main symptoms are gum swelling, inflammation, congestive expansion of new blood vessels, once when chewing or brushing can often cause bleeding. In case of periodontal disease is the development of alveolar abscess, or loose teeth more susceptible to bleeding gums.

The few are the most common local cause of bleeding gums. And some systemic diseases can also cause bleeding gums. Such as blood diseases, including leukemia, hemophilia, thrombocytopenia purpura, aplastic anemia, human leucocyte reduced psychosis. Also found that some of the clinical growth of the tumor on the gums, including gum transferred to other parts of the body of the tumor, prone to bleeding. Certain diseases such as cirrhosis, hypersplenism, nephritis late, can cause low blood root canalclotting function due to lack of vitamin C, or cause severe anemia, bleeding gums can also occur. Of these systemic diseases caused by bleeding gums, due early hospital for examination and treatment.

In addition, some women in adolescence or pregnancy, due to changes in endocrine regulation, gingival bleeding that occurred after this period more than able to heal, usually without special treatment with dental burs. So if you are a pregent, you should pay more attention of your dental health, remenber to contact your dentist regularly for a better oral health.

It is important to build a good info of the information of plaque, and modern research shows that that teeth decay has a close relation with teeth plaque.

Plaque formation is more complex, the theory has now recognized the following three stages:

(A) acquired film formation stages: in the saliva of oral glycoprotein is a substance in the saliva of each person’s saliva contains such substances. When it is in contact with the teeth can be attached to the enamel surface the dental instruments, forming a membrane-like material, this film is called to obtain membrane. Initial adhesion of oral bacteria which provides the substrate for the formation of dental plaque to create the conditions. Data shows that the formation of gingival sulcus is the first to get the teeth part of the membrane.

(2) phase of bacterial adhesion: Most researchers believe that bacteria attached to the membrane acquired importance. Observed that, when the tooth surface acquired pellicle formation, bacterial adhesion up there soon, indicating that attachment very fast. A large number of research data confirmed that the first bacteria attached to the tooth surface for the blood group streptococci and Streptococcus salivarius. Bacteria acquired membrane surface growth, and Nengchan acid deposition to glycoproteins and dental scalers. Blood group and Streptococcus mutans glucan can be synthesized with the deposition of plaque composition with a glycoprotein substrate, in order to create a foundation for the formation of plaque.

(3) plaque maturity: bacterial membrane in acquired growth and development, reproduction and decay, and in which complex metabolism. According to the data analysis, that the proportion of mature bacterial plaque is: 27% of anaerobic streptococci, and 23% of the class of diphtheria bacilli, anaerobic type diphtheria bacilli 18% and 13% of Streptococcus peptone, Wei Yongshi strains of 6%, 4% of Bacteroides, Clostridium bacteria 4%, 3% of Neisseria, Vibrio 2%. Mature dental plaque as the cariogenic bacteria Streptococcus mutans, actinomycosis, blood type Streptococcus and Lactobacillus.

To prevent the plaque, a good oral health and life style is very important here, also you could get some useful advice from your dentist.

Generally, our blood will have some bacteria that directly come from oral cavity, nasopharynx area or other parts, which will be eliminated at any time.

Defense capability in the lower body, all kinds of bacteria from the inflammation of the pharynx isthmus invasion of blood or oral site of infection, “settled” in the damage or abnormal heart valves, the endocardium caused by inflammation, which is called endocarditis as the “infective endocarditis.”

Known as infective endocarditis is caused by dental instrumentsbacteria, fungi, viruses caused by direct infection of the endocardium. The disease is divided into acute and subacute types, and to sub-acute form is more common. Acute infective endocarditis clinical manifestations of rapid onset, severe illness, a sudden high fever, chills and anemia, muscle and joint pain, weakness, sweating, and other systemic manifestations of sepsis, the short term there will be the heart of the high tone systolic murmur, and shortness of breath, other symptoms can not be supine.

Subacute infective endocarditis is slow onset, sustained in a week or more irregular fever, body temperature and more between the 37 ~ 39 , general malaise, fatigue, weight loss, loss of appetite, progressive dental loupesanemia, night sweats, shortness of breath, splenomegaly and so on. The nature of the original heart murmur and loudness changes or new heart murmur, petechiae prevalent in the skin and mucous membranes with eyelid, oral mucosa, skin, hand, foot or lower limb such as the dorsal skin. This is due to the infection of toxin in the blood vessels, increasing its fragility, caused by bleeding or due to embolism.

Once diagnosed as infective endocarditis, should immediately take the following measures:

1, in time, infection control, rational use of bactericidal antibiotics, usually penicillin as the drug of choice. If those who are allergic to penicillin, erythromycin or vancomycin could be replaced by intravenous drip.

2, pay attention to oral care, often to maintain oral dental x rayhygiene, use of 3% boric acid rinse mouth with water.

3, to keep warm and keep the skin dry and clean.

4, for those who have gingivitis or tooth abscess, incision and drainage should or local cleaning, and to strengthen the use of antibiotics.

Have you heard of the connection of bad mood and bad breath. We known some mail resons for bad breath, and you may not heard of the news that bad mood could lead to bad breath directly. From this article, you will get a more clear idea of that.

Arouse the reason a lot of bad breath, but will also lead to bad breath, bad mood, this element is often neglected by everyone.
There is a clinic in mind common sight, many a troubled dental air polishermind to diagnosis and treatment of newly diagnosed patients, the patients thought doctors can find a special kind of bad breath. After a period of treatment, the patient’s mind when the problem has improved, improved mood, bad breath, also will be clearly reduced or disappeared.

Bad breath and mood on the relationship between the motherland and medicine has long been portrayed. If the Qing, “miscellaneous diseases Origin quiet candle,” said: “virtual fire hot Yu, Yun-between in the thoracic stomach is bad breath, or Auntie Wei Hou person has bad breath, bad breath or lung as Huozhuo.” Which refers to the “Depression” and “Auntie” all refer to the human form of the negative feelings of `network collected more medical education.

Modern medicine has also been classified as ultrasonic scalerbad breath in the range of psychosomatic illness, that the elements of mind, especially the poor state of mind can lead to bad breath.

Attention to prevention and treatment of bad breath after meals and at bedtime in addition to brushing, mouthwash, adhere to oral hygiene, refreshing with a fragrant agent, the basic approach is to remove the cause. We do not just treat the organic diseases, but also pay attention to heal mind hamper efforts to improve the mood, the mental dental instrumentsadjustment to a good shape. 

There are various procedures of tooth extractions depending upon the case to case. The dentist decides the best way after clinical examination and taking x-ray to see the position and condition of the tooth to be extracted and accordingly decides whether the tooth can be extracted simply or some surgical procedure for tooth extraction has to be adopted.

Simple Extractions

In simple tooth extraction cases, after giving the local anesthesia, the tooth is extracted / pulled out with the dental forceps. No afterward complications are expected if patient follows the post tooth extraction instructions given by the dentist.

Surgical Extractions

Unfortunately all the teeth cannot be pulled out easily. In some cases the tooth is damaged to that extent that nothing is visible above the gum line or in some cases due to infection or root canal treatment the tooth becomes so brittle that the crown breaks as soon as it is held by the forceps leaving behind the root part. In such cases surgical extraction has to be done. In this type the incision is given in the gums and the flap is raised to expose the embedded part of the root of the tooth which is then removed. But sometimes bone has to be cut to fully remove the roots of the tooth.

Impacted Teeth Extractions

Impacted teeth are those teeth which are embedded and do not erupt in the oral cavity. These teeth create lot of problems and have to be extracted. Most commonly seen impacted teeth are the third molars (wisdom teeth). The impaction can be soft tissue impaction or the bony impaction. If it is soft tissue impaction then the incision has to be given in the soft tissue above the tooth and then like simple extraction it can be pulled out by using the forceps. But if it is bony impaction then the bone has to be cut and sometimes the tooth is also sectioned. The impaction can be vertical, horizontal or angular depending about the angle of the tooth.

So everyone wants straight teeth. Who doesn't?  But most people - and I don't blame them - don't want to spend 2-3 years in full metal braces as an adult! So what options are there to straighten your teeth? Let's go over them:

1. Veneers - If you absolutely want the fastest way to straight teeth, then veneers are your answer. Yet, there are two important downsides to consider.  The first downside is that you are shaving down possibly perfectly healthy teeth, which can increase risk of root canals and also nothing is stronger than perfectly healthy teeth.  The second is that any dental work doesn't last forever so your veneers will need to be replaced down the line.

2. Comprehensive Orthodontics - You would typically visit an orthodontist where you spend 2-3 years in metal braces to move your teeth as close to the ideal position. In orthodontics, there is a position of how teeth fit together that is considered "ideal." If you are considering braces for your kids, this is the way to go. In adults, this is also a great option if your goal is to get your teeth straight and as "perfect" as possible. The obvious negative is the length of treatment.

3. 6 Month Smiles Braces - With adults, often times they want straight teeth and see value in braces versus veneers, but don't want to spend 2-3 years as a metal-mouth. This is where limited orthodontics steps in. The standard philosophy amongst most dentists with adults is to treat them realistically and kids idealistically. Kids that want braces, go to the orthodontist to have comprehensive braces done. Adults, we can straighten your teeth in typically 6 months! How is that possible? In comprehensive orthodontics, teeth are moved into "ideal" positions; this means moving large multi-rooted molars through the jaw. The benefit of 6 Month Smiles braces is that if your bite is alright, and you don't have jaw pain, problems chewing, and so on, your dentist will not focus on movement of your back teeth. All he/she will focus on is the movement of your front teeth into a straighter position. It gives you the look you want in a MUCH shorter time!

At the end of the day, choosing the best way to straighten your teeth can depend on your unique dental scenario.  Finding a dentist that offers all three of the above is the best step in the right direction. 

Extraction of the tooth means pulling out the tooth. Earlier dentistrywas nothing except filling the teeth or extracting them. But now a days , until it is absolute essential the tooth is not pulled out. Normally the dentist tries to save the tooth but sometimes it has to be extracted.

There are various situations where extractions are indicated. These are:   

•  When the tooth is damaged to the extent that it cannot be repaired
• When the tooth is mobile and there is bone loss
• Sometimes the tooth is extracted for orthodonticpurposes
• Sometimes the milk tooth does not fall itself and permanent tooth starts coming above it in such cases the milk tooth is called retained tooth
• Tooth which is associated with some cyst or tumor or when it is impacted , means tooth does not have enough space to come out

Sometimes tooth has to be extracted when the treatment to save the tooth is expensive and patient cannot afford it.

Proper dental care begins even before a baby's first tooth appears. Remember that just because you can't see the teeth doesn't mean they aren't there. Teeth actually begin to form in the second trimester of pregnancy. At birth your baby has 20 primary teeth, some of which are fully developed in the jaw.

Running a damp washcloth over your baby's gums following feedings can prevent buildup of damaging bacteria. Once your child has a few teeth showing, you can brush them with a soft child's toothbrush or rub them with gauze at the end of the day.

Even babies can have problems with dental decay when parents do not practice good feeding habits. Putting a baby to sleep with a bottle in his or her mouth may be convenient in the short term — but it can harm the baby's teeth. When the sugars from juice or milk remain on a baby's teeth for hours, they may eat away at the enamel, creating a condition known as bottle mouth. Pocked, pitted, or discolored front teeth are signs of bottle mouth. Severe cases result in cavities and the need to pull all the front teeth until the permanent ones grow in.

Parents and childcare providers should help young kids set specific times for drinking each day because sucking on a bottle throughout the day can be equally damaging to young teeth.

Pediatric Dentists

Consider taking your child to a dentist who specializes in treating kids. Pediatric dentists are trained to handle the wide range of issues associated with kids' dental health. They also know when to refer you to a different type of specialist such as an orthodontist to correct an overbite or an oral surgeon for jaw realignment.

A pediatric dentist's primary goals are prevention (heading off potential problems before they occur) and maintenance (using routine checkups and proper daily care to keep teeth and gums healthy).

Preventing Cavities

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that a child's first visit to the dentist take place by the first birthday. At this visit, the dentist will explain proper brushing and flossing techniques (you need to floss once your baby has two teeth that touch) and conduct a modified exam while your baby sits on your lap.

Such visits can help in the early detection of potential problems, and help kids become accustomed to visiting the dentist so they'll have less fear about going as they grow older.

When all primary teeth have come in (usually around age 2½), your dentist may start applying topical fluoride. Fluoride hardens the tooth enamel, helping to ward off the most common childhood oral disease, dental cavities (also called dental caries). Cavities occur when bacteria and food left on the teeth after eating are not brushed away. Acid collects on a tooth, softening its enamel until a hole — or cavity — forms. Regular use of fluoride toughens the enamel, making it more difficult for acid to penetrate.

Although many towns require tap water to be fluoridated, others don't. If the water supply is not fluoridated, or if your family uses purified water, ask your dentist for fluoride supplements. Most toothpastes contain fluoride but toothpaste alone will not fully protect a child's mouth. Be careful, however, since too much fluoride can cause tooth discoloration. Check with your dentist before supplementing.

Discoloration also can occur from prolonged use of antibiotics, and some children's medications that contain a large amount of sugar. Parents should encourage children to brush after they take their medicine, particularly if the prescription will be long-term.

Brushing at least twice a day and routine flossing will help maintain a healthy mouth. Kids as young as age 2 or 3 can begin to use toothpaste when brushing, as long as they're supervised. Kids should not ingest large amounts of toothpaste — a pea-sized amount for toddlers is just right. Parents should always make sure the child spits the toothpaste out instead of swallowing.

As your child's permanent teeth grow in, the dentist can help seal out decay by applying a thin wash of resin to the back teeth, where most chewing occurs. Known as a sealant, this protective coating keeps bacteria from settling in the hard-to-reach crevices of the molars.

Although dental research has resulted in increasingly sophisticated preventative techniques, including fillings and sealants that seep fluoride, a dentist's care is only part of the equation. Follow-up at home plays an equally important role. For example, sealants on the teeth do not mean that a child can eat sweets uncontrollably or slack off on the daily brushing and flossing — parents must work with kids to teach good oral health habits.

If Your Child Has a Problem

If you are prone to tooth decay or gum disease, your kids may be at higher risk as well. Therefore, sometimes even the most diligent brushing and flossing will not prevent a cavity. Be sure to call your dentist if your child complains of tooth pain, which could be a sign of a cavity that needs treatment.

New materials mean pediatric dentists have more filling and repair options than ever. Silver remains the substance of choice for the majority of fillings in permanent teeth.

Other materials, such as composite resins, are gaining popularity. These resins bond to the teeth so the filling won't pop out and can be used to rebuild teeth damaged through injury or conditions such as cleft palate. Tooth-colored resins are also more attractive.

But in cases of fracture, extensive decay, or malformation of baby teeth, dentists often opt for stainless steel crowns. Crowns maintain the tooth while preventing the decay from spreading.

As kids grow older, their bite and the straightness of their teeth can become an issue. Orthodontic treatment begins earlier now than it once did, but what once was a symbol of preteen embarrassment — a mouth filled with metal wires and braces — is a relic of the past. Kids as young as age 7 now sport corrective appliances, and efficient, plastic-based materials have replaced old-fashioned metal. contraptions.

Dentists know that manipulation of teeth at a younger age can be easier and more effective in the long run. Younger children's teeth can be positioned with relatively minor orthodontia, thus preventing major orthodontia later on.

In some rare instances, usually when a more complicated dental procedure is to be performed, a dentist will recommend general anesthesiabe used. Parents should make sure that the professional who administers the medicine is a trained anesthesiologist or oral surgeon before agreeing to the procedure.

Don't be afraid to question the dentist. Giving your child an early start on checkups and good dental hygiene is an effective way to help prevent this kind of extensive dental work. Encouraging kids to use a mouthguard during sports also can prevent serious dental injuries.

As kids grow, plan on routine dental checkups anywhere from once every 3 months to once a year, depending on the dentist's recommendations. Limiting intake of sugary foods and regular brushing and flossing all contribute to a child's dental health. Your partnership with the dentist will help ensure teeth healthy and a beautiful smile.

Baby teeth (or primary teeth) are temporary, so why do we care about them? Many parents overlook the importance of baby teeth and don't realize they serve functions other than biting and chewing. Several important functions include:

• They reserve space for permanent teeth and help guide them into position.
• Help make normal speech possible.
• Aid in normal development of jaw bones and facial muscles.
• Add to an attractive appearance.
• They establish good brushing/flossing habits.

Baby teeth typically begin to appear when a child is between age six months and one year. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that a dentist examine a child within six months after the first tooth comes in and no later than the first birthday. A dental visit at an early age is a well baby checkupfor the teeth. Besides checking for tooth decay and other problems,the dentist can show you how to clean the child's teeth properly and how to evaluate any potentially bad habits such as thumbsucking. Most children have a full set of 20 baby teeth by the time they are three years old.

As soon as teeth appear in the mouth, tooth decay can occur. Therefore, when your child's teeth begin to erupt, brush them gently with a child's size toothbrush and water. Brush the teeth of children over age two with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Be sure they spit out the toothpaste and rinse with water. (Ask your child's dentist or physician if you are considering using fluoride toothpaste before age two.)

Infants should finish their bedtime and naptime bottle before going to bed. If you use a pacifier, use a clean one. Never dip a pacifier in sugar or honey before giving it to a baby. (Ask your child's physician or dentist to recommend a type of pacifier.)

Baby teeth reserve space for permanent teeth and help guide them into position. The teeth next to a missing tooth may drift into the empty space. Because these teeth occupy the space meant for another tooth, their permanent replacements will come in the wrong position. The dentist may provide your child with a space maintainer if a baby tooth is lost too soon. But it is preferable to take early preventive measures so your child can keep all of their baby teeth until they are ready to fall out.

Your baby's teeth are a vital aid to speech. Without healthy, reasonably well-aligned teeth, your baby may have difficulty forming words and speaking clearly.

Like muscles in other parts of the body, your baby's face and jaw muscles need exercise to help them develop; without well-developed jaw muscles, your baby's jawbones may not develop properly. Sucking provides exercise for your baby's jaw, cheek, and tongue muscles. When your baby is old enough for solid foods, chewing also exercises these muscles. This exercise is necessary for these structures to develop enough for your baby's teeth to come in properly.

Your child's baby teeth must last five to 10 years or longer. As a permanent tooth reaches the stage of development when it is ready to erupt (emerge through the gum), the roots of the baby tooth it will replace begin to resorb (break down and dissolve). Gradually, the permanent tooth pushes the baby tooth out and takes its place. If a baby tooth is lost too soon, the permanent tooth has no guide or space to occupy.

Custom made mouthguards/nightguards are flexible pieces of plastic molded to the shape of your teeth.  Unlike store bought mouthguards, which are bulky, ill fitting, and often inhibit breathing, mouthguards from your dentist are made specifically for your bite and form to match your teeth.   

How It's Done

Once you have decided to get a custom mouthguard or nightguard made, your dentist will make a cast of your teeth. This usually takes just a few minutes.  The dentist will then take the hardened cast and mold a plastic guard to fit it.  In most cases you will have a variety of colors and styles to choose from.

Ordinarily, mouthguards are made in the dentist's office and are ready in about a week's time.

Technology

There are many different brands of mouthguards available, especially for nighttime wear, to protect the teeth from the damage caused by grinding or clenching.  Your dentist can help you decide what nightguard is best for your condition.

Recovery / Post Op Expectations

The time that it takes to get fitted for a mouthguard is no longer than a regular dental checkup, and there is no pain or discomfort either during or after the time in which the cast is taken.  On average, these guards last between 3 and 10 years.

Guards should be rinsed with cold, never hot, water after each use, and scrubbed with soap and water and brushed frequently.

Complications

There are no complications involved with mouthguards other than sanitary issues stemming from improper cleaning.

Am I A Candidate?

Mouthguard wear during the day is recommended during physical activity such as boxing, football, basketball, or other activities in which your mouth could be hit.  Use during these activities protects against jaw injuries and lip, tongue and cheek lacerations.

Nightguards are recommended for patients with bruxism, the term used for the condition that causes sleepers to clench or grind their teeth.  For patients with jaw or other sleeping related mouth or bite problems, a nightguard might also be an option.

A painful condition called "dry socket" is one of the most common of the potential complications you might experience after a tooth extraction.  You may recall reading one of our other articles, where we address what you can typically expect after you have a tooth pulled.  Don't worry if you don't remember, though, because before we go into the symptoms of a dry socket, we'll briefly describe what a dry socket is. 

Normally, a blood clot forms over the site of a tooth extraction.  This blood clot plays an important role in the healing process by temporarily sealing off and protecting the empty tooth socket.  It functions in a way that is similar to a scab that seals off and protects a scratch or cut on your skin.  Without the blood clot, the nerves and underlying bone in the empty tooth socket will be exposed to food, fluids, other debris and air.  The condition called dry socket occurs if this blood clot fails to form over the tooth socket, or if the clot that does form either dissolves or is somehow dislodged.  Because of the significant potential for contamination of the wound, a person with a dry socket has a substantial likelihood of developing an infection accompanied by severe pain that could last as long as five or six days.

Dental professionals refer to dry socket as "alveolar osteitis."  Although dry socket can be extremely painful, once it's identified it's easy for your dentist to treat.  In addition, only a small percentage of patients develop dry socket after having a tooth extracted.  However, despite your low odds of developing dry socket, it's important to recognize its symptoms so you can obtain treatment promptly if necessary.  Some people are more likely than others to develop dry socket after a tooth extraction.  For example, people who smoke, have poor oral hygiene, use birth control pills, or have previously experienced dry socket following a tooth extraction are all at a somewhat greater risk for developing the condition.  It is also more likely to occur following a wisdom tooth extraction. 

We all expect to endure at least some discomfort or pain when we have one of our teeth extracted.  Most of the time, you can expect the pain to decrease steadily from one day to the next as a result of the normal healing process.  However, if your pain is moderate at the beginning but after a few days it becomes more severe instead of beginning to dissipate, you're probably experiencing dry socket symptoms.  The pain associated with dry socket can be moderate to intense, but it is often a throbbing pain.  It might be localized to the site of your tooth extraction, but it also might radiate to the eye or ear on the same side of your head as the extraction.

Additional dry socket symptoms include bad breath and an unpleasant or even foul odor and taste which appear to emanate from the empty tooth socket.  If you examine the site where the tooth was extracted, you'll probably see a dry-looking, empty socket instead of seeing a healthy-looking blood clot.  This is why the condition is called "dry socket."  Any blood clot you see will probably be minimal in size.  You might see some granular tissue, or you might even see exposed bone.

Swollen, enlarged lymph nodes in the jaw or neck are another potential dry socket symptom.  Your body is attempting to fight off the infection caused by the dry socket.  Enlarged lymph nodes are simply part of your body's response, but they are a distinct sign of an infection.

After your tooth extraction, your dentist will probably suggest that you bite down firmly and maintain steady pressure on the gauze packing over the site of the extraction.  Exerting pressure on this gauze normally facilitates the formation of a blood clot over the empty tooth socket.  Once the clot has formed, try to avoid dislodging, disrupting or dissolving it.  To that end, for the first few days you should refrain from smoking, drinking through a straw, spitting and rinsing your mouth vigorously.  If you rinse your mouth, do it gently.  You should also avoid drinking hot coffee, soup and alcoholic beverages for at least a few days after your tooth extraction.  Finally, you should temporarily reduce the amount of physical exercise you receive.

Dental decayor cavities is the most common cause of loss of teeth affecting majority of the population. Still, most people tend to ignore dental decay till it reaches the stage, where the pain becomes unbearable causing infection of the tooth and the underlying bone.

How does dental decay happen?

Bacteria are constantly present in the mouth. Certain types of bacteria can attach themselves to hard surfaces like the enamel that cover the teeth. If they're not removed, they multiply and grow in number until a colony forms. Proteins that are present in the saliva also mix in and the bacteria colony becomes a whitish film plaque on the tooth. These bacteria feed on sugars and starches from the food like chocolates, sticky sweets, ice cream, milk, cakes, and even fruits, vegetables and juices, producing acid as a byproduct. This acid then eats into the tooth enamel (the outer hard layer of the tooth) gradually dissolving the tooth & a cavity is formed causing a hole in the tooth structure. If not taken care of at this stage, it further reaches the dentin {inner sensitive second layer} where it spreads more quickly. If still ignored, in some time, the decay spreads to the nerves and blood vessels in the centre of the tooth leading to tooth abscess.

Unfortunately, the bacterial attack is so gradual that there may be no pain or sensitivity until the cavity becomes quite large.

Causes of Tooth Decay

1. Lack of correct oral hygiene habits.
2. Baby Bottle Decay (Nursing Bottle Decay) happens in infants taking a bottle that contains milk or juices to bed with them .These liquids contain sugars that pool around the teeth and can cause decay.
3. Root cavities can happen in advanced age as the gums recede, leaving parts of the tooth root exposed. Since there is no enamel covering the tooth roots, these areas can easily decay.
4. Repeated decay – can happen around existing fillings and crowns because these areas are not as smooth as a natural tooth surface.
5. Cavities due to dry mouth or decreased salivation.

Ways to Prevent Dental Decay……….

The key to preventing decay is removing plaque and bacteria before acid can eat away the tooth. This can be achieved by :

Good oral hygiene habits :brushing carefully (inside, outside and between your teeth) at least twice a day, flossing daily, using fluoridated toothpaste.

Food habits :cutting down on sweets and between meal snacks, replacing fast food with raw vegetables and fruits in your diet.

Regular dental checkups :Visiting your dentist at least every six months for checkups.

Your dentist can help you in following ways :

• May recommend fluoride gels, mouth rinses, or dietary fluoride supplements if required.
• May use professional anti-cavity varnish, or sealants (thin plastic coatings) providing an extra barrier against food and debris.
• Can repair the gaps or smooth the rough edges in existing fillings that could be areas for bacteria to grow.
• Can detect early decay on x-rays & prevent it from spreading further.
• Can teach you the right way of brushing & flossing.

Oral health reflects a person’s overall health. You can achieve good oral health by taking appropriate care of your teeth & oral cavity everyday and say goodbye to dental decay forever……..!!!
 

A speedier way to straighten your teeth with braces, you’re in luck. Accelerated orthodontics is a new concept in orthodontic treatment that can accomplish the same goals as traditional orthodontics in much less time.

Accelerated orthodontics is becoming popular with adults because the procedure allows teeth to straighten in months rather than years.

According to the AAO, today one in five orthodontic patients is an adult.

Advantages of Accelerated Orthodontics

The main advantage of accelerated orthodontics is speed. With traditional orthodontics, patients may need to wear braces for two to four years, but accelerated orthodontics shortens that time to under a year. Most accelerated orthodontics patients wear braces for just three to eight months.

With orthodontic therapy, you get more than a pretty smile. There are health advantages as well. Because braces help to correct structural problems that may be causing an overbite or crooked teeth, accelerated orthodontics, just like traditional orthodontics, can improve your overall dental health. Having straight teeth contributes to the health of teeth and gums, as well as the ability to effectively bite, chew, and speak.

Disadvantages of Accelerated Orthodontics

Accelerated orthodontics requires a minor surgical procedure, usually performed by a periodontist (gum specialist) about a week after the braces are applied.

Done under local anesthesia, the in-office surgical procedure alters the gums and bones that hold the teeth in place, which allows the teeth to move into their proper places more quickly. The surgery typically causes the same amount of discomfort as a dental cleaning. It is common, though, for patients to experience an itching sensation with accelerated orthodontics because the teeth move much faster than with traditional braces.

The Basics of Braces and Orthodontia

As with traditional orthodontics, accelerated orthodontics involves the use of braces — devices that place pressure on the teeth, forcing them to shift into the proper position. There are three general types of orthodontic braces — ceramic, lingual, and metal. Bray says that any of these types of braces may be used in accelerated orthodontics:

• Ceramic braces.Made of composite materials, ceramic braces are very strong and stain-resistant. Ceramic braces blend in with teeth and aren’t as noticeable as metal braces. But the ligatures — bands that hold wires to the ceramic brackets — can stain your teeth if you smoke or drink coffee. However, these bands are replaced every time you get an adjustment — usually once a month.
• Lingual braces.Placed behind your teeth, lingual braces are hidden from view and are popular with adults who don’t want anyone to know they’re wearing braces. “Although lingual braces can be used with accelerated orthodontics, they can be more challenging to apply and it may be more difficult to get the desired result than with ceramic or metal braces,” explains Bray. They’re also more expensive.
• Metal braces.Although metal braces are very strong and can withstand even the most aggressive accelerated orthodontics treatment, they are the most visible. Initially, metal braces can be more irritating to the gums than other braces, but they’re also the least expensive.

As with traditional orthodontics, you’ll need to wear a retainer periodically after the braces are removed to prevent your teeth from moving back to their original incorrect position, says Bray.

Is Accelerated Orthodontics Right for You?

Accelerated orthodontics is effective in most cases where traditional orthodontics is the recommended treatment. Because accelerated orthodontics is fairly new, there are no long-term studies on how well it works. However, the procedure appears safe and very effective.

The cost is similar to traditional orthodontic treatment, even though the length of treatment is shorter. This is because several doctors, including an orthodontist and a periodontist, are involved in the treatment. Accelerated orthodontics provides the same results as traditional orthodontics, but in much less time. If you’ve always been bothered by crooked teeth or have problems with biting and chewing, but dread the thought of wearing braces for several years, accelerated orthodontics may be a good alternative. Ask your dentist for a referral to an orthodontist with training and experience in accelerated orthodontics or visit the AAO Web site to find an orthodontist near you.

Poor dental hygiene is the main reason for tooth decay, tooth pain, and other oral health conditions. If you don't maintain good oral health habits, including brushing and flossing regularly, plaque can develop and lead to cavities. Left untreated, a cavity can eventually affect the soft center (or pulp) of your tooth, which contains sensitive nerves and delicate blood vessels. And if pulp diseases aren't properly managed, you can lose your teeth.

Symptoms of Pulp Diseases

Depending on the type of pulp disease, symptoms may vary in intensity and can include:

• Pain in a tooth or teeth when you eat something very sweet, hot, or cold
• Sudden, intense pain in the mouth
• Infection in the mouth

Types of Pulp Diseases

There are several different pulp diseases, including:

• Reversible pulpitis, or mild inflammation of the pulp. Symptoms typically include pain upon eating or drinking something very sweet, hot, or cold. Without treatment, the inflammation can progress to a dental abscess, a collection of bacteria and pus. Good oral health habits can help offset reversible pulpitis, but in many cases, a filling is eventually needed. Pulpitis can also occur if you crack or break a tooth.
• Irreversible pulpitis, or severe inflammation of the pulp that can't be cured. Symptoms include sudden intense pain. Left untreated, it can result in a widespread gum and connective tissue infection. Irreversible pulpitis is generally treated with a root canal procedure. If that doesn't work, your dentist may have to remove the tooth.
• Dental pulp calcification (also known as dental pulp stones).This is a condition in which hardening, or calcification, of pulp tissue results in hypersensitivity and extreme pain because the dental nerves become compressed. A root canal is usually necessary to clear away hardened tissue.
• Dental pulp exposure.This condition comes on when damage to the external covering of a tooth, such as a cavity or crack in the tooth, exposes the normally protected pulp to bacteria and irritating food particles. Pain is the most frequent symptom and without proper dental care, a mild infection can progress into a serious abscess. Depending on the degree of pulp exposure, a filling, root-canal procedure, or even tooth extraction may be required.

Pulp Diseases Treatment: Root Canal Therapy

If damaged pulp in your tooth isn't taken out, a severe infection can spread to surrounding tissue, including your jaw bone. A root canal procedure to remove the pulp tissue is usually performed over several visits by a regular dentist or a pulp specialist, called an endodontist. The root canal therapy may spare you from having to get the infected tooth removed.

Here's what you can expect from root canal therapy:

• First visit.The diseased pulp is removed and the empty space, the root canal, is cleaned out and enlarged. Special medications may be placed in the canal to disinfect the area. A temporary filling may be placed as well, or your dentist may choose to leave the canal open and let the tooth drain for a few days. An oral antibiotic may also be recommended to treat infection in the tissues surrounding your tooth.
• Second visit.The temporary filling is removed and a permanent filling is placed.
• Final visit.A crown is placed over the tooth to reinforce the tooth and make it stronger.

Some pulp diseases may be caused by an injury that broke a tooth. But many other pulp diseases are simply caused by poor oral health habits. If you brush and floss regularly and seek out regular dental care, you are less likely to develop pulp diseases.

Cosmetic dentistry isn’t just for celebrities and the wealthy — there's now a wide variety of options and price ranges that put a better smile within reach for millions of people.

From subtle changes to major oral surgery, there are a host of cosmetic dentistry techniques that can treat teeth that are discolored, chipped, misshapen, or missing.

So is cosmetic dentistry right for you? Here’s what you need to know before making the decision.

What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?

While traditional dentistry addresses the health of your teeth and gums, cosmetic dentistry focuses on the appearance of your teeth, mouth, and smile.

Recent advances in cosmetic dentistry allow dentists to offer everything from improved teeth whitening to translucent tooth coverings to complete smile makeovers. Cosmetic dentistry has been around for decades, but the materials used today are more durable and natural looking than those used in the past.

According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), two-thirds of patients seeking cosmetic dentistry are female, and the average amount spent on cosmetic procedures by these patients in 2007 was a little less than $4,000. However, some cosmetic dentistry procedures can cost as little as $300. Because cosmetic dentistry is considered elective rather than “necessary,” it’s not usually covered by insurance.

Cosmetic Dentistry Options

There are a variety of cosmetic dentistry procedures available, including:

• Teeth whitening.This procedure brightens teeth that are discolored or stained. Teeth whitening, or bleaching, can be done in a dentist’s office or at home with a system dispensed by the dentist. Over-the-counter teeth-whitening products are also available.
• Bonding.This can improve the appearance of teeth that are chipped, broken, cracked, stained, or have spaces in between them, by bonding tooth-colored materials to the tooth surface.
• Veneers . These are thin, custom-made porcelain shells that cover the front of the teeth to disguise discoloration or imperfections.
• Tooth reshaping.This procedure involves changing the teeth to improve their appearance by modifying or removing enamel. Tooth reshaping (also known as dental contouring) is often combined with bonding.
• Crown lengthening . This can fix a "gummy" smile (where more gums than teeth are visible) or an uneven gum line by removing excess gum tissue to expose more of the tooth’s crown and give the appearance of longer teeth. This involves minor oral surgery.
• Smile makeovers.These procedures involve a comprehensive assessment of the overall appearance of the teeth and smile. Typically, several cosmetic dentistry procedures are required to overhaul the look of a patient's smile. Think of it as a facelift for the mouth.

How to Choose a Cosmetic Dentist

The skill and experience of the dentist you select can impact the outcome of your cosmetic dentistry work. While some dental specialists, such as orthodontists and periodontists, need additional education and special certifications in order to practice, the field of cosmetic dentistry doesn't have such requirements. Any dentist with a degree in general dentistry can perform cosmetic dentistry procedures. Most dentists who offer cosmetic dentistry have taken continuing education courses in the treatments and procedures. To be sure that the dentist you select is skilled in cosmetic dentistry, it’s best to ask to for the following:

• Before and after photos of patients treated
• Patient references
• Proof of continuing education

You'll also want to ask whether the dentist is a member of the AACD, which requires rigorous study of cosmetic dentistry procedures and an examination to become a member. To find an AACD dentist near you, log on to the AACD Web site.

With today’s emphasis on youth and appearance, cosmetic dentistry is becoming more popular than ever. While not many people have naturally perfect teeth, almost anyone can attain a dazzling smile with the help of a dentist.

Researchers warn of an ongoing epidemic of oral cancer caused by the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus (HPV).

A study in Stockholm, Sweden, finds that cases of oral cancer -- primarily cancer of the tonsils -- increased sevenfold from 1970 to 2007.

They find that while HPV caused only 54% of oral cancers from 1998-1999, it caused 84% of these cancers in 2006-2007.

"It looks like HPV-positive oral cancers are rising quite sharply in the past 10 years, while HPV-negative oral cancers went down. That is why we say it is an epidemic," study leader Tina Dalianis, MD, PhD, professor of tumor biology at Sweden's Karolinska Institute, tells WebMD.

HPV is a well-known cause of cervical cancer. But researchers have only recently begun to appreciate its role in oral cancer, says HPV-oral cancer expert Gypsyamber D'Souza, PhD, of Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

"Yes there is a startling increase in the incidence of oropharyngeal cancer, and that increase is being driven by HPV," D'Souza tells WebMD. "But while many experts agree that there's an epidemic rise in HPV-related oral cancer, the cancer remains rare."

The risk of developing oral cancer increases with the lifetime number of oral or vaginal sex partners, but many people with HPV-related oral cancer have five or fewer lifetime sexual partners. Men are more likely to get oral cancer than are women, and people with HPV-related oral cancer tend to be younger than people with non-HPV related oral cancer.

It's becoming clear that oral sex is a factor in the spread of HPV-related oral cancer. Less clear is whether deep kissing can spread the virus. D'Souza says that despite some inconclusive evidence of mouth-to-mouth HPV spread, it's unlikely.

"I did one study to suggest it might be transmitted by deep kissing, but the risk was small -- so I think it is unlikely that HPV is transmitted by French kissing," she says. "People with oral HPV infection should not be concerned about interacting with their loved ones in a normal way. Salivary transmission of HPV is very rare."

Smoking and high alcohol consumption are risk factors for non-HPV-related oral cancer. People who smoke also have worse outcomes if they get HPV-related oral cancer.

Oral cancers are extremely deadly, but survival rates are much better for people with HPV-related oral cancer. Because of the high fatality rate for oral cancers, doctors tend to treat them very aggressively. It's not yet clear whether less aggressive therapy might be appropriate for HPV-related oral cancer.

Two vaccines now are approved for prevention of HPV-related cervical cancer. It's not yet known whether the vaccines will protect against oral cancer, but the same HPV types that cause cervical and vulvar cancer cause oral cancer.

"As a virologist, I am not aware of a vaccine that works in one part of the body and not in another, so I think this vaccine would prevent oral cancer in boys as well as in girls," Dalianis says.

The Dalianis study was not funded by pharmaceutical companies. D'Souza reports receiving research grants and consulting fees from Merck, which makes an HPV vaccine.

The Dalianis study appears in the Oct. 13 online issue of the CDC publication Emerging Infectious Diseases.