If Your Teeth Don’t Look Perfect, They Can

By Dr. Anasinski

Are you unhappy with the way your teeth look? Perhaps they are yellow or stained, or even crooked, cracked or chipped. Perhaps you have teeth that are missing. Even so…there’s no need to have teeth or a smile that you are not proud of because a trip to your dentist can start you on your way to perfect-looking teeth and a beautiful smile. With the tools and procedures now available in modern dental technology, all teeth can be made to look perfect.



For teeth that are yellowed or stained, dentists have the options of using tooth whitening, which is an in-office bleaching procedure, or porcelain veneers that can be used to cover up stained or yellowed teeth that won’t respond to whitening. Tooth whitening that is done under a dentist’s supervision is stronger and more effective than over-the-counter versions. And veneers are very thin layers of porcelain that are bonded to your natural teeth. Once in place, the veneers look and function just like all of the other teeth in your mouth.



If you need fillings in teeth that show when you smile, they can be filled with tooth-colored fillings. These fillings are matched to the color of your teeth so that they blend in with the tooth they are repairing and with all of your other teeth as well.



And sometimes it just takes small changes in the shape of your teeth to bring them from unattractive or imperfect to perfect and beautiful. When that’s the case, your dentist can use a procedure called tooth contouring or reshaping to remove a small amount of your tooth to reshape it or even smooth out angles or edges. And if any natural flaws in your teeth need to be covered, a process called bonding can be used where a plastic sculpting-like material is placed over the tooth and molded to give it the desired look and shape. Then a high-intensity light hardens the plastic and the surface is polished, leaving you with a strong, perfect but natural-looking tooth.



If your teeth appear very long or you have what is sometimes referred to as a “gummy smile” where you have more gum showing than teeth when you smile, your dentist can use gum contouring processes. With these procedures, gum tissue can be removed or sculpted to create the desired look.



If you have missing teeth, one tooth—or several teeth—can be replaced with the use of dental implants. With an implant, a titanium screw is placed into the bone where your tooth once was. This screw acts like a tooth root and stimulates both the bone and the gum tissue to keep them alive, the way the natural tooth root did. An abutment, which appears above the gum line, is fastened to the implanted screw and a crown that looks and acts like a natural tooth is placed on the abutment. Implants can be used for single teeth or several implants can be used to secure bridges, partials or even full dentures.



Thanks to the many processes and procedures available in dentistry today, even if you weren’t born with beautiful, perfect teeth, you can have them. Your dentist can help you have healthy teeth and an attractive smile no matter what shape your natural teeth might now be in.



About the Author: Dr. Anasinski completed her residency in Periodontics at Northwestern University and is Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago. She holds many prestigious positions such as Delegate to the Illinois State Dental Society. Periodontics of Niles



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Will the UK Become Like USA – Teeth Whitening

By Jason Scott Edworthy

In the UK we are known for our reserved nature and when it comes to teeth whitening will we become as vein as our cousins in the USA? Lets look at the facts.



Teeth whitening has been going a lot longer in the USA compared to the UK so it is still fairly new but the word is spreading and this is helping the rapid growth.



In the USA they are really dedicated not only to teeth whitening but overall general dental health and will see their dentist regularly to ensure their teeth and gums in the best shape. This is drummed in to children very young in the USA whereas in the UK children’s dental health is relatively poor so as they grow in to adults it plays a lower part in their everyday focus.



Also in the UK dentists are not always our best friend and certainly not on our Christmas card lists! This is because many of the old school dentists in the UK had a fierce reputation and did not put enough emphasis in to their people skills and remember your patient is also your customer. As a result people do not see their dentist as much as they should and in turn they only go to see their dentist when they have a problem.



Having good dental health and whiter teeth are linked and this is why the Americans are really quite obsessive about whitening because they really care about their teeth and until that changes in the UK it is unlikely that teeth whitening will become as popular.



All that said for some people they put having white teeth in front of having regular dental appointments as they believe the looks are more important but these people are rare. For example some smokers fall in to this category in the UK as the nicotine will change the colour of the teeth to a yellow or browning colour and therefore they want to remove this. Ask them the last time they saw their dentist and it will be a few years ago for some of these people.



One the systems really growing fast in the UK is the laser whitening method as this requires no effort and little discipline from the recipients points of view this is perfect and combined with instant results makes an ideal solution from removing the staining from the teeth.



The laser is applied to gently heat the gel which mixes with the oxygen to open the micro pores of the enamel to release the stains and this will make them white again. It also makes the teeth look shiny.



This is because once the debris and staining has been removed the light will shine more effectively off the teeth and this reflection also makes the teeth look more healthy as people look at your new smile.



If you are not sure what is best always seek the advice of your dentist and get their take on things.



About the Author: See more about Teeth whitening Luton or check out laser whitening Barnet lots of information to review!



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Help My Teeth Are Loose

By Sandy Gibson

It is a recurring nightmare for many people, that they waken up one morning to find out their teeth are loose, and panic, visit their dentist, or more usually try to find a dentist because their last visit was several years ago, and then discover they have to have one or several teeth extracted and a denture fitted.



If you are reading this, and you feel one or more teeth have become loose, you must see a dental professional without delay. Please don’t think that this is something that happens to everyone in your family because your parents and grandparents have false teeth. It doesn’t have to happen to you.



The process of gum disease begins with bleeding gums, normally almost ignored, and tragically many people won’t brush because they say it makes their gums bleed, and so it must be doing harm. This is the moment to brush harder, to use floss, the string between your teeth, and to visit your dental professional. Don’t be silly and act ostrich like with your head stuck firmly in the sand, because you are at the start of a rock downward road that could end up in tooth loss.



If this bleeding used to be the case and you didn’t seek advice because you thought it was cured, then think again. Your gum disease has gone under the gum, and it is burrowing away probably without you even noticing.



There are tell-tale signs if you can be bothered to look, and all you need is a well lit bathroom mirror. Just look at the gums where they meet your teeth. If your teeth look longer then it won’t be your age, but a serious, or potentially tooth loss threatening problem. Being long in the tooth isn’t any more a reflection of your age, more an indication of the health of your teeth and gums.



The gum should come up to a nice point between your teeth, and you shouldn’t be able to see a gap above between your teeth. Indeed if you can see a space, or the gum is now flat without the pointed bit, then you have a problem.

Are you finding your teeth are sensitive when you brush, or eating fruit like pineapple or when you have a cold drink, the chances arte the roots of your teeth have been exposed by shrinking gums.



If you aren’t sure obviously consult your dentist if you have one, but any doubt can be cast aside if you can see a line where the colour of the tooth darkens and that is above the gum edge. That is where your gum used to be in days gone by, before the slow steady sure progress of gum disease.



Finally if at the gum edge you can see a white, creamy, hard coating which you can just about get off with a finger nail, but with difficulty, you have scale, and a problem. If on the other hand the edge of your gum has a black line then this is almost certainly what dentists call sub gingival[under the gum] scale which needs removal by a dental professional hygienist.



All of these signs indicate serious problems in store, and the worst case scenario then is pain and swelling, caused by a gum abscess because the spaces between gum and tooth are now so large and deep you impact food down there and you develop an infection.



The tall and the short of it is this. If you have any of the above problems go and see your dentist.



About the Author: Sandy Gibson is the pseudonym of a practising dentist, author and newspaper correspondent. he also writes websites and suggests you check out his newest website Orthomatic Adjustable Beds and specifically Adjustable Bed Mattress



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When Should You Consider Veneers For Your Teeth?

By Rich Russell

Teeth whitening is becoming more and more popular these days and not just for reasons of vanity. They say that you don’t get a second chance to make a good first impression, and there are many situations where that is vital. In business negotiations, job interviews and first dates, your smile can be your fortune. What impression do you make if you are embarrassed about your teeth and are reluctant to hold your head up and smile?



There are many alternative methods available from home kits to more advanced and more expensive professional treatments. But while the methods differ, the objective is the same, to whiten your own teeth. Veneers are one way that you can take things a stage further. A veneer is a very thin layer of porcelain or sometimes a composite material that is bonded to and covers your own teeth. This can provide benefits beyond mere whitening.



In what circumstances are veneers right for your teeth?



A consultation with a dental professional is essential if you are considering veneers. While teeth whitening only changes the colour of your teeth, veneers can also change their look in terms of shape and position and can also close up small gaps between teeth. If individual teeth are discoloured, veneers can be made to match them to the good ones. A slight thickening of the veneer can cover a small chip and make the tooth look sound.



What is involved?



In order for the covering to bond to the teeth properly, a key has to be made. That is, the surface has to be slightly roughened. This may involve removing a very tiny amount of the enamel from the teeth. This would be the same thickness as the veneer, meaning no change in the overall size of the teeth. There should be very little discomfort from this and a local anesthetic is not always needed.



An impression can now be taken and the teeth colour matched, in preparation for the construction of the veneers. On a second visit, the finished veneers can be checked against the natural teeth. It is important that the patient is happy at this stage, since when the veneers are bonded in place, very little adjustment is possible.



What do you get for your money?



So how do veneers for your teeth compare with other teeth whitening methods? The price of veneers will vary but they are likely to be very much more expensive than most of the other whitening methods available. While many home whitening kits of various types can be bought over the counter, you will definitely require professional advice as to whether veneers are a suitable and viable option for you.



You would hope that the effect of veneers on your teeth would be better and longer lasting than the cheaper home kits, but this might not be the case. Veneers could last for 15 years but it could be as little as 5 years, which is comparable to some of the better alternatives. Your dentist will be able to give you specific advice on what results you expect, and the likely cost.



About the Author: Your smile can be your fortune. Look after it! Rich Russell is the owner of Teeethproduct.com, a resource for for people interested in improving the look and health of their teeth. visit http://www.teethproduct.com for information on maximizing your prize asset.



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Bad Teeth – How To Fix

By Frank Denber

Having bad teeth is a not only a health problem but can also cause emotional stress. In today's society only people with a perfect white smile are considered as attractive and successful. Earlier having the perfect smile was only obtainable for movie stars and celebrities who could afford paying the high prices.



Today most of the cosmetic dental procedures are relatively cheap. While a perfect smile makeover still costs a little fortune, there is no reason anymore why you shouldn't fix a bad tooth quickly, without much pain and less cost.



Depending on your bad tooth/teeth you have several options. The most popular treatment is a simple teeth whitening which makes stained teeth white again. Today the bleaching process works very well and is safe. There are many different home bleaching sets which take you several days or weeks to get your teeth white. However, if you are not satisfied with the results or don't like the hassles involved then it's recommended to pay the higher price and get a 1 day power bleaching at your cosmetic dentist for best results.



Crooked teeth are the most common problem. Depending on how crooked they are you have different options. Slightly crooked teeth can be fixed instantly with porcelain veneers or composite resin veneers. The ultra thin veneers are directly attached to the surface of your tooth. A stronger crooked tooth will have to be shaped a little first. Veneers can be applied to all your teeth or just one. Gapped teeth can also be instantly fixed with veneers.



Really crooked teeth need to be aligned with aligners or braces. Aligners can fix slightly crooked teeth over time while braces are used when a stronger overall solution is needed. Today there are almost invisible braces which look much better then these metal braces we all hate. They are also much more comfortable to wear.



If the tooth is rotten and can't be saved then you must remove it and replace it by an implant. There is a brand new implant technology which gives you a new tooth within just one treatment. Before getting implants took months with much pain involved. Today it's much faster and less traumatic. After the CT scan unveiled the perfect point for the implant, the dentist uses a custom made prosthesis to drill with minimal invasion. You leave the chair with a new tooth in place.



A gummy smile is also a problem of many. No matter if you have perfect teeth, too much gum or an uneven gum line lets your teeth look short. Today the laser is the fix. Without pain the laser cuts the gum line within minutes.



There have been many advances the last years in cosmetic dentistry. There is no reason to have bad or unaesthetic teeth anymore.



About the Author: Frank Denber provides detailed information on bad teeth, teeth whitening, implants and more at his web site http://www.DentistryList.com



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Teeth Whitening And Sensitive Teeth

By Jared Winston

Tooth whitening to achieve that "perfect" smile has recently become extremely popular. However, there is a price to be paid for that beautiful smile. One of the side effects of tooth whitening is temporarily increased sensitivity to heat or cold. This increase in sensitivity is seen by most people as being a minor side effect of treatment, plus it usually goes away after treatment is over. However, if your teeth are already overly sensitive to temperature, then you may need to be more careful in choosing and using a tooth whitening method.



There are several different methods available for applying the whitening agent to your teeth. One is the tray type system, which uses a carrier tray to hold the whitening agent next to your teeth. Another method is the popular whitening "strips", which are made of very thin plastic impregnated with the whitening agent. These strips are designed to adhere to your teeth when pressed onto them firmly. Also available are gels which contain the whitening agent. They have a thick consistency which allows them to be applied to your teeth and stay until wiped off.



The increased sensitivity is caused by the main ingredient used in most tooth whitening products, either carbomide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. These two compounds are actually forms of bleach, hence you may see the terms "tooth whitening" and "tooth bleaching" used interchangeably. If you are using a product that contains either of these compounds, there are a few steps you can take to lessen the increase in thermal sensitivity.



One way to reduce the sensitivity is to reduce the time that the tooth whitening product remains on your teeth. For example, if the instructions call for 2 hours per treatment, then reduce this to only 1 hour. Another way would be to increase the time between treatments. If the usual frequency is once per day, then try doing the treatments every other day. If you still experience discomfort you could do both - decrease the treatment time to 1 hour and perform the treatments every other day.



Remember, even people who do not initially have sensitive teeth usually experience a temporary increase in sensitivity during treatment, so you will probably still experience some discomfort. Another suggestion is to brush your teeth before and after treatment with a toothpaste especially designed for sensitive teeth. These toothpastes usually use a flouride compound to de-sensitize your teeth. There are several different ones on the market Also, if you discuss your plans with your dentist, they may able to provide you with a professional flouride treatment that can be applied at home.



One other option is available if you have tried the tooth whiteners and find that they are too uncomfortable. You can use one of the available tooth whitening toothpastes, which will clean your teeth with a mild abrasive rather than bleach them. These tooth whitening toothpastes do not use bleach, so you should not experience any added sensitivity, but they will not whiten your teeth as much as bleaching.



As your can see, if you have sensitive teeth, the tooth whitening process may take longer and require a little extra effort, but you should be able to achieve the same results in the end: a whiter, brighter smile.



Copyright © Jared Winston, 2006. All Rights Reserved.



About the Author: Tooth whitening is becoming an increasingly popular home cosmetic procedure. Learn more about the various whitening systems, benefits and potential risks at http://www.lustrousteeth.com



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All-Ceramic Crowns Help Give You a Beautiful Smile

By Dr. Anasinski

There are times when tooth decay has destroyed a large portion of a tooth or has weakened it so significantly that a filling (or even an inlay or an onlay) is no longer a good option. When that happens, your dentist can use a crown (also known as a dental cap) to fit over your tooth and strengthen the structure of the tooth as well as restore its appearance and functioning capacity to that of a natural tooth. When a crown is needed your dentist can choose from a variety of different materials from which a crown can be created: metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal, all-resin and all-ceramic or all-porcelain.



In most cases, however, because of the features they offer that aren’t available with most crowns, an all-ceramic crown is often the best choice for repairing a tooth that needs to be capped. To begin with, all-ceramic crowns provide the best color match which helps them blend in with your natural teeth making them a desirable choice for capping front teeth or ones that show when you smile. Because there is no metal in the crown, there is no unnatural grey color near the gum line that typically occurs with crowns that are made of metal or even porcelain-fused-to-metal. The absence of this grey line helps the crown easily blend in with your natural teeth and because all-ceramic crowns are “tissue-friendly,” they encourage your gums to grow back up against your tooth as it would do with your natural teeth. Ceramic crowns are also exceptionally strong and durable and with proper dental care will last for a number of years.



When you have a cavity and your dentist determines that the natural crown of your tooth has been damaged beyond repair and needs to be replaced, he or she will prepare your tooth by removing the decay and reshaping the tooth to make room for the crown. An impression will be made of that area of your mouth and will be sent to a dental lab where your ceramic crown will be made. During the interim, your dentist will prepare a temporary crown that you will wear until your ceramic crown is ready. Once your dentist receives your ceramic crown back from the lab, the temporary crown will be removed and your dentist will ensure that your tooth is cavity- free and ready for the placement of your permanent crown. When the ceramic crown is placed, it will look and function just like a natural, healthy tooth.



Fully functioning beautiful teeth are important not only for your health but also for the way that you feel about yourself and your smile. Because they can be matched to blend in well with the natural color of your teeth and because they are so “tissue friendly” ceramic crowns are the best choice when it comes to giving you a beautiful smile.



If you currently have crowns in your teeth that are made from metal or other materials and they detract from your smile, check with your dentist to see if they can be replaced with a natural-looking all-ceramic crown that will look beautiful and last for many years.



About the Author: Dr. Anasinski completed her residency in Periodontics at Northwestern University and is Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago. She holds many prestigious positions such as Delegate to the Illinois State Dental Society. periodonticsofniles



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When Are Crowns Needed and How is a Crown Put on a Tooth?

By Dr. Pamela Dassenko, DDS

Crowning a tooth is one of the most common modern procedures performed by dentists on their patients. That is because using a crown can now be done rather quickly and easily and crowns solve many kinds of dental problems –from major loss or breakage to simple cosmetic issues. The way a crown works is that it is fitted on top of the unhealthy or damaged tooth – just like a crown worn on the head of a person – and it works to enclose and protect the tooth beneath it. The crown is sort of like a covering sleeve that encloses the tooth with a strong and realistic looking tooth exterior or dental façade. Best of all, good modern dental crowns that are expertly created and skillfully installed are virtually indistinguishable from real natural teeth.



Ordinarily a natural tooth has its own crown, of course, and those who are lucky to keep their original teeth enjoy healthy crowns that contribute to overall well being and dental health. When we talk about the crown we refer to the portion of the tooth that extends above the gum – the part that is white, made of bone-like hard material, and is easily visible when you look into your mouth or smile at someone. This crown is coated in hard enamel to make it tough, strong, and durable, and the crown is used to bite, cut, or grind our food.



But if something happens to that original natural crown – such as chipping, decay, or breakage – the dentist will often replace it with one made from a synthetic polymer, real gold, or porcelain. Dental crowns also work nicely when other parts of the tooth are damaged – for instance when there is a deep cavity or crack in the body of the tooth. Once the unhealthy portion of the tooth is properly repaired, the artificial crown is fastened to it or mounted over it. That provides a healthy sheath or covering for the tooth, so that bacteria and infection cannot get in and the tender nerves of the inner tooth cannot be exposed and cause pain and discomfort.



Crowns are carved and sculpted to match your original tooth or teeth, and then they are placed over the repaired, chipped, or broken tooth. Dentists use special dental adhesives to secure them in place and prevent them from coming loose or falling out, and with an excellent crown it is hard to tell the difference between it and the original healthy tooth.



If you need a new crown the doctor will usually spend one visit examining the tooth and fixing or filling the unhealthy portion. Then he or she will take exact measurements of your teeth, along with photos or X-rays. Using those as references a specialized dental sculptor will carve a new crown. Or the crown may be carved and sculpted by a high-tech computer machine. Once the crown is ready – which can take from an hour or two to a couple of weeks, depending upon your dentist and the methods used to make the crown – the dentist will install it in your mouth, polish and finesse it, and you’ll be good to go.



About the Author: Dr. Pam Dassenko has been practicing Dentistry for over 25 years. She is a 1980 graduate of Loma Linda University where she has also taught restorative dentistry and prosthodontics. Her caring and expertise are translated into beautiful and quality dental care from cosmetic to advanced modern dental procedures. http://www.drdassenko.com



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Veneers, Crowns And Bridges - What's The Difference

By Ricky Ponting

Porcelain veneers, dental crowns, and dental bridges all have different applications in the field of cosmetic dentistry.



Porcelain veneers are very thin, custom-made porcelain shells that are created to fit over the front surfaces of your teeth. Porcelain veneers are translucent, stain resistant, and the color can be selected to give you a brighter smile. Although porcelain veneers are generally use in cosmetic dentistry to give people new and better smile, they are also used to repair dental problems. Porcelain veneers can correct:



· Worn Teeth



· Misaligned Teeth



· Disfigured Teeth



· Chipped Teeth



· Cracked Teeth



· Gaps



· Discolored Teeth



Dental crowns are used to repair teeth that are significantly worn, cracked, or broken from decay, an improper bite, grinding, clenching, age, or old fillings. Crowns are used to cover the entire portion of the tooth above the gum line. By providing a new surface, the crown gives the tooth stability, strength, and durability.



Dental bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. Unlike partial dentures, bridges are cemented to two dental crowns on either side of the gap and cannot be removed. People with dental bridges must pay close attention to their dental hygiene because food may get trapped around the dental bridge and can create serious health problems.



Although dental veneers, crowns, and bridges are all used to correct dental problems, they are all very different and they correct very different problems. Cosmetic dentists can use veneers, bridges, and crowns to either give you the smile that you have always wanted or to correct any problems that you have with your teeth.



Dental crowns are used to repair teeth that are significantly worn, cracked, or broken from decay, an improper bite, grinding, clenching, age, or old fillings. Crowns are used to cover the entire portion of the tooth above the gum line. By providing a new surface, the crown gives the tooth stability, strength, and durability.



Dental bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. Unlike partial dentures, bridges are cemented to two dental crowns on either side of the gap and cannot be removed. People with dental bridges must pay close attention to their dental hygiene because food may get trapped around the dental bridge and can create serious health problems.



Although dental veneers, crowns, and bridges are all used to correct dental problems, they are all very different and they correct very different problems. Cosmetic dentists can use veneers, bridges, and crowns to either give you the smile that you have always wanted or to correct any problems that you have with your teeth.



About the Author: Author writes articles on different topics. To know more, visit: http://www.squidoo.com/exposedacnetreatment/", http://www.sanacosmeticdental.com/index.html



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A Guide On Dental Crowns: The Basics

A Guide On Dental Crowns: The Basics
By Ashish Jain

Twentieth Century saw many crowns fall, many replaced, many
vanished; many became show-pieces in the museums! But the one
crown, without the command of the army that is on the rampage is
dental crown! Earlier the glory of the crown was on the head,
now it is on the teeth, mostly invisible, sealed between the
lips!

A dental crown is also known as cap-- in keeping up with the
democratic traditions. They are dental reinstallations and
cemented to encase the tooth. Dental crowns are mainly used to:

1. Build a teeth or tooth that is broken or decayed

2. Strengthen the teeth

3. In order to improve the look of a teeth or tooth.

Dental crowns, once placed are not your permanent assets. There
could be the need for replacement of the crown. They cover up
the whole area of the tooth that is visible to make a new outer
surface. It is made up of porcelain, a metal alloy or gold. With
the ever increasing price of the bullion, it is better to have
the crown/crowns in gold as it becomes an investment, if the
crown were to lose its 'power' and fall out!

Making a dental crown is an art. The role of your dental
surgeon is indirect and that of the dental technician in the
laboratory is direct. Before casting or fabricating, a dental
technician has to take into account several factors like your
bite and jaw movements from several angles. Dental crown is
created away from your mouth, unlike fillings which are created
in your mouth. This is the essential difference between the
dental fillings and the dental crown.

Dental fillings do not contribute much to enhance cosmetic
beauty of your smile, whereas dental crown achieves this
objective. Magnificently so, if it is a gold crown!

Do not go by the gold appeal and opt for dental crown, if other
options are also available. The main function of your teeth is
to masticate food. If the installation of the crown causes
problems for you, you will find it difficult to bear the day to
day irritant!

There are softer and conservative methods to improve the health
of your tooth. A porcelain veneer, dental bonding and teeth
whitening are the other options.

About the Author: To get more information on dental insurance,
dentists and dental facts and myths visit
http://www.dentalinfoline.com/

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The Benefits of Using All-Ceramic Crowns

The Benefits of Using All-Ceramic Crowns
By Dr. Gianino

When discolored teeth don’t respond to teeth whitening or if
teeth have become cracked, broken, decayed or simply worn down,
a dental crown can be used to bring them back to a healthy state
and a beautiful appearance. A dental crown which is also known
as a “cap” covers a tooth to help restore its strength, size,
shape and appearance.

There are a variety of options when it comes to dental crowns.
They can be made from precious metal, porcelain fused to metal
or all-porcelain (ceramic). In my office, we recommend
all-ceramic crowns for a variety of reasons. To begin with, they
provide the best color match, which means we can find the right
shade of porcelain to blend with the natural color of your
teeth, even if we are going a few shades brighter to whiten your
teeth in the process.

And, because there is no metal in an all-ceramic crown, you
will not have the unnatural grey color near your gum line that
generally happens when crowns are made from materials that
include metal. Without the ‘grey line’ issue, the crown will
blend in with your natural teeth. Also, all-ceramic crowns are
“tissue friendly” allowing the gum tissue to grow back up
against the tooth which does not always happen with crowns that
contain metal. Ceramic crowns are also bio-compatible which
means no allergic reactions, hot or cold sensitivity or impact
on the taste of the foods you eat. Along with these benefits,
ceramic crowns are also very durable and with proper dental
hygiene habits should last for a number of years. In fact,
clinical studies have shown that all-ceramic crowns are
exceptionally strong.

When your dentist determines that a crown is needed to repair
or restore a tooth, any decay that is present will be removed
and your tooth will be reshaped in preparation of receiving the
crown. Once that process is completed, an impression is made of
the tooth that the crown will be covering as well as the area of
the mouth in which the tooth is located and that impression is
sent to a dental laboratory where the ceramic crown will be
created. A temporary crown is then placed on your tooth to
protect the area until your permanent crown is ready.

Once the ceramic crown is returned to the dental office, your
temporary crown will be removed and the dentist will check the
tooth to ensure that it is cavity-free and ready to receive the
permanent crown. At that time, the fit and color of the crown
will be confirmed and if necessary a local anesthetic is used to
numb the tooth while the new crown is permanently cemented in
place. Once your ceramic crown is permanently placed in your
mouth, it will look, feel and function just like your natural
teeth.

Your all-ceramic crown does not need special care, but it does
require good daily oral hygiene habits that include brushing at
least twice a day and flossing at least once a day, especially
around the area where the tooth and gum meet to protect the base
of your crown from bacterial growth. Regular dental checkups at
least once every six months are also important to ensure that
the crown has not come loose and bacteria is building up beneath
it.

Ceramic crowns can not only be used for teeth that need to be
repaired or restored, they can also be used to replace any
current crowns in your mouth that contain metal.

About the Author: Dr. Gianino has based his dental philosophy
on patient respect and genuine relationships, taking the time to
learn about the smile of your dreams - the smile you deserve.
You can visit his website at http://DrGianino.com. He would love
to hear from you.

Source: http://www.isnare.com

Permanent Link:
http://www.isnare.com/?aid=598778&ca=Medicines+and+Remedies

Dental Health Affects Your Whole Body Wellbeing

Dental Health Affects Your Whole Body Wellbeing
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jenny_Maloy] Jenny Maloy

There are many of you who take your dental health very lightly. Did you know that your dental health indirectly affects your entire body? Yea, it is true. The reason for that is quite simple as whatever goes inside your body goes through the mouth. When your teeth are not fine and consist of germs, then don't be surprised if you often have sicknesses of different kinds.

The answer to your health problems may lie in the fact that your teeth are not doing good. Visiting your dentists regularly can ensure that your teeth are fine. When you have small problems like germs and other minor problems, you can get them treated by brushing your teeth twice a day and use mouth wash. But when you have plaque and bigger infections, you will need to visit your dentist.

You need to understand the fact that dental health is not just about your teeth. That is what many of you are not aware of the fact that dental health cannot be distinguished from your general health. Like mentioned earlier, dental diseases can be the main reason for other ailments in the body. When you are suffering from plaque, it sticks to your teeth.

This is a bad layer of bacteria that can quickly attach to our teeth and gums. If the right treatment is not taken at the right time, you can suffer from serious health problems. Plaque can grow larger and sometimes slow the flow through blood vessels. Your body needs to have regular blood flow as it is important for preventing heart diseases, not to mention here attack as well.

The main reason for plaque is eating lot of sugary foods. When you are suffering from this problem, make sure you first visit your dentist and this treated and make sure not to consume too many sugary items. So, make sure you maintain your dental health as it not only prevents disease of the mouth, but leads to other bodily ailments.

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Is Bad Breath a Problem for You?

Is Bad Breath a Problem for You?
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Christopher_B_John] Christopher B John

Bad breath is a problem for millions of people worldwide. There is nothing more embarrassing than having a conversation with someone and fearing that you have bad breath. On the other hand, there are not too many things worse than talking to someone who has bad smelling breath for an extended period of time. Fortunately, there are some simple things that you can do in order to eliminate your bad breath and replace it with fresh breath. Most people with smelly breath can be treated with store bought solutions to the problem. However, there are some cases where bad breath cannot be cured by anything bought in a store. In severe cases like this it is recommended that you seek the help of a qualified doctor.

Brushing your teeth daily will help to eliminate your horrendous breath. Though this solution seems obvious there are people who struggle with it. Make sure that you are brushing the fronts, tops, and back of your teeth. Also, make sure that you are brushing down near your gums. Your gums are a great place for bacteria that causes bad germs to build up. Scrub your gums thoroughly in order to help eliminate the problem. Don't forget about brushing your tongue. The tongue is another one of those problem areas that can cause bad smelling breath. Cleaning the tongue will go a long way into curing the problem.

In addition to brushing, you should be using mouthwash on a daily basis. Mouthwash will leave your mouth feeling clean and your breath smelling fresh. Mouthwash is great for killing the bacteria that lead to less than desirable breath as well as removing any food particles that may be trapped in your gums or between your teeth.

All in all, bad breath is a serious issue that can cause health problems while holding you back socially. Make sure you take care of this at once!

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Tips to Keep Your Teeth White

Tips to Keep Your Teeth White
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Austin_Taylor_V_Coopes] Austin Taylor V Coopes

These days, a lot more and much more UK customers are interested in maintaining their the teeth as white as feasible. While it's been stated that very first impressions are lasting impressions, it is definitely accurate to suggest that the shade of our the teeth can surely impact people's perception of us.
The good news is that you can use a variety of procedures to retain your the teeth as white colored as probable. Right here are some of the most well-liked items and procedures:

1. Clean, floss and rinse appropriately.

This is 1 of the simplest however most efficient ways to continue to keep your teeth as bright white as feasible.

You ought to brush two or three times everyday, floss when, and rinse with mouthwash in the morning and evening. Make positive to wait about an hour right after eating to brush, given that your teeth's enamel will soften correct following consuming.

Also, review your brushing and flossing methods. While we do them on a day-to-day basis, as soon as we commence using the wrong strategies then we have to unlearn them - there is usually room for improvement.

2. Use whitening toothpaste.

This sort of toothpaste differs from the regular range, because it consists of elements that specialist teeth whiteners also have. Even though this toothpaste is powerful, it's also mild. So you could use it on a daily basis; nevertheless, don't assume immediate results.

3. Use natural the teeth whiteners.

Mother Nature generates some fantastic natural the teeth whiteners, such as:

o Bay leaves

o Lemons

o Orange peels

o Strawberries

o Veggies (crunchy)

These remedies are great, given that they're readily accessible, all-organic and, most importantly, efficient in whitening teeth!

4. Minimise your intake of tea, coffee, and sodas.

Even though these beverages can be oh-so-tasty, they can also stain your the teeth.

If you completely, positively should have such drinks, then you ought to minimise the amount that you consume. One more procedure you can use is to drink by means of a straw.

The straw will allow the drinks to flow past your teeth, and therefore prevent staining them.

5. Check out your dentist for regular checkups.

"Regular" indicates biannually, at least. Whilst normal dental checkups are essential, it's anything that we frequently retain delaying till cavities form in our the teeth.

Especially with all the stuff identified in modern food, it's crucial that we let a dentist to periodically scrape away the plaque and tarter buildup on our teeth. Whilst a everyday tooth cleaning is critical, it's not enough to preserve white colored and healthy teeth!

6. Clean with baking soda.

This is 1 of the oldest however most effective techniques to continue to keep your the teeth white-colored. All you require to do is blend some water and baking soda, to generate your personal homemade toothpaste. Make positive to clean twice employing it.

7. Use above-the-counter the teeth whiteners.

Whilst a cornucopia of teeth-whitening products is accessible, gels have a tendency to be the overall most successful ones.

They're safe, convenient, cost-effective, and powerful. They can be applied rapidly, as and when they are required, to give your teeth higher radiance. Inside a brief quantity of time you can knowledge whiter teeth.

After you've attained white colored the teeth, it's essential that you keep them. These suggestions will assist to maintain your the teeth sparkling white, and free of charge of unsightly stains. Indeed, prevention is greater than cure!

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Natural Teeth Whitening Tips For a Healthy Smile

Natural Teeth Whitening Tips For a Healthy Smile
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Kirsten_Whittaker]Kirsten Whittaker

We all know that brushing and flossing are the best way to keep your smile looking its best, but top natural teeth whitening tips include enjoying foods that are "tooth friendly", and avoiding ones that are trouble go a long way toward keeping your smile sparkling and your gums healthy. Your teeth are strong and pretty resilient overall, but if you have any root canals or fillings that tooth is typically weaker. Bite down on something hard (ice, hard candy, olives, fruits that have pits or unpopped popcorn) and you're more likely to suffer a crack or fracture in such a tooth, and an emergency trip to your dentist to boot.

When it comes to a great looking smile, one of the best (not the easiest mind you) thing you can do is to limit snacking. Beyond adding calories to your diet, snacking interrupts the flow of saliva meant to cleanse the mouth and teeth to remove cavity-producing substances. Constant snacking continually exposes your teeth to substances that erode enamel, which is why experts suggest you limit eating to three meals a day. If you do snack, choose a food that's healthier, as these are less likely to cause tooth decay.

To ensure your smile always looks its best, here are seven things to add to your diet:

1. Water is the most natural, calorie free thirst quencher around, and helps to wash acid producing foods from the teeth and mouth.

2. Sugar free drinks are ideal if you like something with a bit more taste. These also serve to wash the acid producing food from the mouth.

3. Sugar free gum increases the flow of saliva, this helps to neutralize acids in the mouth and thus protect the enamel of the teeth. This is a great choice when you're craving something sweet, but are watching your calorie intake.

4. Citrus fruit though acidic also increases the flow of saliva. Oranges, grapefruits and other such fruits offer protection to enamel because they contain a lot of water that washes away food and acids.

5. Cheese and milk not only encourage saliva production, the proteins in these foods also act as a buffer against acids so the enamel of the tooth is protected from erosion. There are studies that suggest these foods might possibly strengthen the protective minerals found in the surface of your teeth.

6. Fish and flax are thought to reduce inflammation and offer protection against gum disease. Omega-3 fatty acids are the most potent anti-inflammatory nutrients, and people who eat a lot of them are more resistant to both inflammation and infection, perhaps gum disease as well.

7. Cocoa has substances that keep inflammation in check and might also help protect teeth against erosion and decay. Dark chocolate is lower in sugar than the milk chocolate variety. And chocolate milk, which does have some sugar, does not appear to up the risk of cavities.

Now that you've seen what to add, here are some things to avoid...

1. Sugary drinks: When the bacteria in the mouth break down simple sugars they produce acids that can erode enamel and create pits where cavities form. Because we sip them, these drinks raise acid levels over a long period of time. Carbonated drinks are especially bad, as the carbonation ups acidity. Some research has singled out sports drinks as the worst offenders.

2. Candy and sweetened snacks: No surprise here since most of these are loaded with sugar that increases acid levels in the mouth. Sticky and gummy candies are the most destructive choice of all because they adhere to the tooth surface, making it hard for saliva to clean the teeth.

3. Sugary breakfast foods: These have a mix of sugar and starch, more likely to get stuck in the plaque between teeth. Ready to eat breakfast cereal, pastries and many processed (though highly convenient) breakfast foods are best avoided if you want to maintain a healthy smile.

4. Some starches: Breads, pasta, rice and potatoes raise the destructive acid levels in the mouth. The more refined (or cooked) a starch is, the more likely it will raise acid levels. Raw starches don't endanger tooth enamel.

5. Coffee, tea and red wine: Beyond the fact that these beverage tend to stain the tooth surface, these drinks are typically sipped, allowing the acid levels in the mouth to remain high over a much longer period of time.

So, by following these natural teeth whitening tips you can have a bright and healthy smile with minimum intervention and cost.

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Teeth Whitening Products - How Do You Decide?

Teeth Whitening Products - How Do You Decide?
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Kenneth_W._Edwards] Kenneth W. Edwards

I can just see hundreds, if not thousands, of people every day standing in their local stores, staring at all the teeth whitening products on the shelves. Confused and dazed, they finally just go "Eeny Meeny Miny Mo", and pick one to try. If you are one of those confused folks, welcome. Here you can get info to help you make an informed decision between the different types of product available.

All Teeth Whitening Kits Clean With The Same Stuff

With rare exception, over the counter cleaning kits use lower concentrations of the same chemicals that dentists use. Cleaning with a dentist will be more effective, but is a lot of hassle and expense. Just like the dentist, these methods generally use concentrations of hydrogen peroxide and carbamide. The levels are lower to allow for safe home use.

Teeth Whitening Strips - A Surface Treatment Only

Strips are one of the stronger products available. They can be placed over the teeth, and are generally comfortable. The downside to this - they will only whiten the surface of the teeth that they are physically touching. Getting the area between each tooth can be a problem, and getting the back molars can be a problem. If your teeth are heavily stained, you can end up with white fronts, and still be able to see the stain remnants between the teeth.

Teeth Whitening Trays - Not If You Gag Easy

Like strips, trays are one of the stronger products on the market. There is a bit more mess to them. Since the trays are put over the teeth, they do a good job of evenly cleaning all surfaces evenly. However, some people have a gag reflex that is triggered by having the trays in their mouths. While it may give the best results of all the methods, it is the least comfortable.

Teeth Whitening Gels - Saliva Is A Problem

Gels are just painted on teeth that you dry first. Then you allow the gel to dry. After drying, you wipe off the residue. Sounds quite simple. It gives you the advantage of doing specific teeth individually, if you want. One problem. You have to keep the saliva off the teeth that you are cleaning. All that messing around may trigger your mouth to produce more saliva. If I smell something good to eat, I would have that problem. It also is more difficult to keep the back teeth dry long enough to get the best cleaning effect.

Teeth Whitening Pens - Precision Application

Pens are the most recent innovation in teeth cleaning solution delivery. Much like gels, pens give you that "paint on" method. They do give an extra level of precision, and they are very portable. Just slip in your pocket for use anywhere. For best effect, you still have to dry the teeth first, and let the solution from the pen dry as well.

When Should You Use A Dentist Instead?

If your teeth are heavily stained, and you need 5 to 7 levels of whitening, then you will need to go through the expense of seeing a dentist. They also may have the laser whitening option, currently the method used to get the best results possible. Only they can tell you what is possible. While a kit can give you dramatic whitening, it is not likely. It is, however, a good first step.

No matter what "do it yourself" teeth whitening products you use, they are variations on the delivery method of the chemicals to the tooth surface. Just check the precautions above, and choose one to start. Compared to a visit to the dentist, all are relatively inexpensive, and if used properly, relatively harmless. Enjoy your brighter teeth!

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Cosmetic Dentistry - Crowns and Bridges

Cosmetic Dentistry - Crowns and Bridges
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Dave_Stringham] Dave Stringham

A bonding is a composite resin that is used as an alternative to amalgams and veneers. This is an excellent cosmetic option for those patients who do not want the look of silver in their mouths and do not want the expense of veneers. Bondings can be used on teeth that are decayed, cracked, or stained.

Procedure

The bonding procedure is usually completed in one visit. The first step is to remove the decayed or unsightly portion of the tooth. The tooth is then etched with a liquid or gel and a bonding agent is then applied. This will allow the composite resin to be placed in the prepared tooth. The resin is then trimmed and polished, leaving you with a beautifully sculpted, natural-looking restoration.

Bonding Durability

Although composite resins are cosmetically pleasing and easily placed, their durability is not as strong as other types of restorations. These resins typically last from 4-7 years before they begin to chip and wear away. When this happens, the restoration will need to be replaced.

A bridge is one of the few options that you have when deciding how to deal with a missing tooth or teeth. The replacement of these missing teeth is necessary in order to maintain the proper mouth functions. Tooth loss can affect the way you eat, speak, and the alignment of other teeth in your mouth.

Types of Bridges

A bridge, by definition, is a link or connection between two permanent structures. A dental bridge is very similar in that it attaches the restorative teeth (bridge) to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. This acts as your new teeth, closing the gap and restoring your smile. These are often constructed of gold or metal foundations with porcelain fused to the foundation. This ensures that the bridge will support the normal functions of the mouth.

They can either be fixed or removable. A fixed bridge is bonded to the natural teeth, or abutments, and can not be removed by the patient. A removable oneis often attached by metal and can be removed for cleaning purposes. We will determine which of these options is more appropriate for your specific situation.

Procedure

The procedure begins with preparation of the natural teeth, or abutments. We will shape the abutment teeth so that the ends of the bridge will fit comfortably on each one. The next step is to take an impression of the area. This impression will be sent to our lab where your new restoration will be crafted. While this new tooth is created, we will provide you with a temporary restoration. Our temporary restorations will resemble your natural teeth so that you can continue with your daily life without worrying about a missing or unattractive tooth.

During your second visit to the office, we will proceed with the placement of your final restoration. This bridge will be fitted comfortably into the mouth. We will make every effort to ensure that the new one feels exactly like your natural teeth. The final step in the process is to cement the bridge into your mouth, leaving you with a beautifully restored smile. It is best to refrain from eating for at least 2 hours and until the anesthesia has worn off to prevent possibly injury to your soft tissue

Temporary: Please be careful when cleaning around the temporary restoration. Do not pull up on the temporary when flossing this area. Make sure to brush this area gently and not to chew any hard foods on the restoration. If your temporary comes off between appointments, please call our office so that we can reapply it for you.

Sensitivity: Sensitivity to hot and cold is to be expected following treatment. For the first few days, try to avoid extremely hot or cold foods and beverages

It is normal to have discomfort in the gums around the tooth after the anesthesia wears off. If you feel discomfort in the gum tissue, rinse the area with warm salt water. You can also take an Advil or Tylenol if the discomfort persists.

Permanent Crown/Bridge: When the final restoration is placed, your bite may feel a little different. This is just your mouth adjusting to the new addition. If it still feels off in a few days, please call the office for a slight adjustment.

Home Care: It is important to resume regular brushing and flossing immediately. A consistent daily home care routine will increase the longevity of the restoration.

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What You Need to Know About Dental Crowns

What You Need to Know About Dental Crowns
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Doug_F_Smith] Doug F Smith

What are dental crowns?
Dental crowns are a fixed prosthesis that is manufactured by a dental lab that actually cements onto/over your natural tooth structure.

There are three types of dental crowns.
Ceramic. Ceramic crowns are an all-porcelain.
Porcelain that is fused to a metal substance such as gold or silver.
Full gold crown.

Why do teeth require dental crowns?
Typically a crown is required when a tooth is broken and a large portion of tooth structure is lost, such as a broken cusp or the filling broke out along with some of the tooth structure. In these cases, the tooth is so compromised that it:
1. Will not hold a large filling and...
2. Because it's compromised, it needs something to cover the structure in order to protect what's left.

To receive a dental crown, the tooth is prepared and a mold is made. The crown will actually cement right over the top of the natural tooth structure. This is done to protect the remaining integrity of a tooth and to prolong its life and longevity.

What is the difference between a crown and a porcelain veneer?
Porcelain veneers actually are used generally in the front teeth and they're similar to a fake fingernail. A very thin piece of glass or porcelain is manufactured by the dental lab which will actually be cemented onto the front surface of the tooth. The tooth actually underneath the veneer is what gives the veneer some strength. The veneer in itself is not very strong at all, versus a crown, which actually derives its strength from the thickness of the porcelain or the metal underlying the crown.

Crowns generally will last most of a person's life if they're placed well and the person has good oral hygiene. Insurance companies allow crowns to be replaced every five years typically, some longer than that. Typically crowns will last several years. I've seen crowns last 20 or 30 years and so they can be good, long-term restoration when the tooth integrity is compromised. http://loganutahdentist.com Doug Smith has been practicing dentistry in Logan Utah for over 17 years. His down to earth friendly style makes him easy to like. Doug is a favorite for many loyal and happy patients. He lives with his wife and 3 children in Logan Utah.

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Dental Periodontal Disease - Can Bleeding Gums Give You Heart Disease & Diabetes?

Dental Periodontal Disease - Can Bleeding Gums Give You Heart Disease & Diabetes?
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Richard_Neufeld,_DDS] Richard Neufeld, DDS

New scientific studies are confirming emerging evidence that low-grade inflammation (like gum disease) is a factor in the development of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer's and other illnesses.

A study in the New England Journal of Medicine showed that women with high levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), which measures inflammation, are twice as likely as those with high cholesterol to die from heart attacks and strokes. British researchers also found that patients with a high CRP level had more then six times the risk of developing diabetes within 5 years.

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is one of our most common infections. It is a chronic inflammation that is estimated to effect about 80% of the American population. It is also contagious, and often passed on to family members. In addition to being a cause of inflammation, it is believed that bacteria in your mouth can enter the blood stream through oral tissue or the stomach when swallowed. This allows the bacteria and infection to spread to other areas of the body.

Inflammation is an immune system response to injury or illness that helps our bodies heal. When there is a chronic irritation stimulating the immune system continuously the chemicals and proteins involved can be toxic to the tissue. Allergies and auto immune diseases are also caused by the over stimulation of the immune system. Other common sources of inflammation include asthma, stomach or bowel problems, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, and hepatitis.

So what can you do?

1. Quit smoking - smoking keeps the circulatory system and lungs constantly inflamed.
2. Oral Health Care - see your dentist and hygienist regularly and brush and floss daily to prevent oral infection.
3. Diet - eating a diet low in saturated fat and high in antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables helps prevent inflammation.
4. Exercise -reduces fat and fat cells are believed to produce inflammatory substances.
5. Medications- check with your doctor about taking daily aspirin or other medications available that help lower CRP levels.

Preventing gum disease and other inflammations may help you live longer and healthier. Please give your dentist a chance to make a difference in your life.

Bite of Wisdom: Remember to be tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving, and tolerant of the weak or strong. Because someday in your life you will have been all of these.

Richard D. Neufeld, DDS has been providing Holistic, Cosmetic, & General Dentistry for over 30 years. He is well known for being gentle, caring, and creating beautiful smiles, as well as his dedication to excellence.

Dr. Neufeld's Dental Health Center has been Mercury Free for more than 15 years and provides safe silver/mercury filling removal, following the IAOMT guidelines.

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Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Dental-Periodontal-Disease---Can-Bleeding-Gums-Give-You-Heart-Disease-and-Diabetes?&id=4978173] Dental Periodontal Disease - Can Bleeding Gums Give You Heart Disease & Diabetes?

So Many Toothbrushes - What Is the Difference?

So Many Toothbrushes - What Is the Difference?
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Melanie_Garrett] Melanie Garrett

Are you confused about which kind of toothbrush is the best? Is there really a difference? It depends on your needs and everyone's needs are different.

There are basically two types of toothbrushes - powered and manual. Powered toothbrushes can be electric or battery operated. The electric ones have a cord and must be plugged in. The battery operated ones just need the batteries to be replaced every now and then. People who have a lot of plaque do well with the powered ones. The powered toothbrushes with a round head work better than the ones that go back and forth or up and down. Its circular motion gets in between the teeth better.

There are so many kinds of manual toothbrushes. A soft one is better. The medium and hard ones will wear down the enamel because they are abrasive. Choose one that has a head with bristles that are uneven and stick out in different directions. The flat heads that are straight will not get in between the teeth as thoroughly.

If you have a small mouth you may want to go with a compact (small) head. If you have a big mouth you may prefer a large head. My personal favorite has rubber bristles around the edges. It makes me feel like I have had a gum massage. These are very good for people with periodontal problems, gum disease or bleeding gums.

It does not matter which brand you use. They all offer the same types of toothbrushes. Do not spend a lot of money on them. You can get a good powered toothbrush for $5 - $20. A good manual brush costs $2 - $5. I know people who have spent $100 on one. This is not necessary.

One more tip: Try dipping your toothbrush in Listerine and brushing your gums. This will kill bacteria, stop bleeding and make your mouth feel so clean and fresh.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?So-Many-Toothbrushes---What-Is-the-Difference?&id=5005632] So Many Toothbrushes - What Is the Difference?

The Dreaded Dental Surgery - Wisdom Tooth Removal

The Dreaded Dental Surgery - Wisdom Tooth Removal
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell] Michael Russell

Removal of wisdom teeth is one of the most feared dental procedures. Everyone has heard a horror story about dry socket or infections that occurred after the removal of wisdom teeth. What many people don't realize is that wisdom tooth removal can be simple and pain free if done early enough. Most dentists will monitor the growth and placement of these teeth during the teen years. They will recommend removal when the time is right based on the patient's age and the development of the teeth. It is important to stay on track with regular dental checkups to make sure these teeth are removed at the optimal time.

Wisdom teeth usually erupt between the ages of 17 and 24. There are normally four teeth that come in, two on top and two on bottom. Some people never get all four teeth in a condition called hypodontia. Wisdom teeth are known as third molars because they are in the back of the mouth behind the second molars. Dentists usually recommend removal of these teeth early on to avoid major dental complications that can arise as time goes by. The older a patient is, the more difficult removal can be because the teeth are more firmly attached to the jaw. What should be a simple dental procedure gets much more complicated the longer it is neglected.

Removal of wisdom teeth is suggested due to the lack of space on the jaw for this extra tooth. Typically the jaw is not large enough for these extra teeth and as a result, the rest of the teeth will end up being very crowded. Many times the tooth will grow in sideways or at an angle due to the limited space and curvature of the jaw. When this happens, the tooth is considered to be impacted and complications can arise. Impacted wisdom teeth can damage the teeth next to them and require extra dental procedures to fix the adjacent teeth. Infections can also arise as food can get trapped between the crowded teeth or under the gums where it is harder to floss.

It is up to the patient to decide if he is ready to have his wisdom teeth removed, however, most dentists will encourage removal while it is still a simple dental procedure. Complications can arise if wisdom teeth are not removed at the suggested time. The older the patient, the higher the risk of nerve damage following the procedure. As a result, paresthesia, or numbness of the chin, lips, or tongue can occur. Paresthesia can last from several days to several months. This condition is rare in teenagers and as high as 10% in people older than 35. Cysts and tumors can also develop if given enough time. Not to mention that the healing process will be much quicker and easier on younger patients.

While wisdom tooth extraction can be a simple and pain free dental experience, there are risks of complications regardless of the patient's age. Dry Socket is the most common complication. In dry socket, the blood clot has become dislodged from the hole where the tooth was. This condition is extremely painful and is not easily alleviated with pain medications. Patients are encouraged not to smoke or drink out of straws to avoid dry socket. Abscess, swelling, soreness and excessive bleeding are also other potential complications. The dentist can evaluate any problems experienced and either recommend additional dental treatments or prescribe antibiotics or painkillers.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Dental [http://dental-guideto.com]

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Dreaded-Dental-Surgery---Wisdom-Tooth-Removal&id=632555] The Dreaded Dental Surgery - Wisdom Tooth Removal

How to Look After Your Children's Teeth

How to Look After Your Children's Teeth
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Adam_Singleton] Adam Singleton

Good dental hygiene is something that every family member should have, whatever the age, but when it comes to children, it's even more important to make sure that teeth are properly looked after. As a child develops, their teeth start to harden and lay the foundations that will hopefully be there for their whole life, so it is good to establish proper brushing habits from a young age.

Recently the NHS announced that a significant amount of money is being spent daily on treating dental problems that could have easily been prevented if appropriate care had been taken during childhood. In light of this, here are some tips on how to look after your children's teeth.

As soon as your child's teeth start to appear, begin using a soft infants' toothbrush twice a day, leading onto using regular fluoride toothpaste as your child begins nursery. For a developing child, fluoride is an essential part of dental health, as it helps strengthen the teeth from a young age, so if you live in an area with fluoride in the water supply, perhaps consider using fluoride tablets occasionally.

With children of all ages, the most common reason for visiting the dentist can usually be traced back to diet. Unfortunately children often have an insatiable sweet tooth, which obviously poses a risk to perfect teeth, so booking regular dental appointments is necessary; at least every six months. Likewise, try and limit the amount of sugar your child has in their diet, as too much will cause cavities by reacting to the mouth's natural bacteria to form an acid which, if not cleaned away regularly, leaves teeth with small holes in them. These cavities are notoriously common in children, but can be avoided if your child brushes their teeth twice every day. Brushing is always essential, but your child's teeth will stay healthy longer if they eat more 'tooth friendly' snacks like crackers, fruit and cheese.

For many families, getting dental treatment on the NHS is not an option and therefore they have to incur hefty private dental bills. Having work carried out on your child's teeth is never cheap, so by getting your child into good habits from an early age, you can not only save money but also maintain your child's healthy teeth and gums for longer.

Essentials to remember are first make sure your child is using the correct brushing technique, if they're not then perhaps ask your dentist to advise on how best they should brush, and then make sure that they aren't skipping brushing their teeth now and then, as this is how tooth decay starts. However, for comprehensive peace of mind, and to avoid any surprise emergency dental bills, consider getting rel=nofollow [http://www.boots.com/en/Dental-Insurance-Home_852831/]dental insurance.

Learn more about [http://www.boots.com/en/Dental-Insurance-Home_852831/]dental insurance. Adam Singleton writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Look-After-Your-Childrens-Teeth&id=4356624] How to Look After Your Children's Teeth

NHS Worst Health Service in Europe - How to Fix it?

NHS Worst Health Service in Europe - How to Fix it?
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Nadeem_Walayat] Nadeem Walayat

Why ?


Because those that decide on where the money is spent, are those that benefit from that money going straight into their own pockets. That's GP,s Hospital Doctors, Consultants and other Managerial NHS Staff.


Those that should be benefiting from a tripling in expenditure, i.e. the Patients have very little say on whether a GP service or Hospital is rubbish, and should be closed down. No, its the staff of that institution which decide that they should continue in practice, maybe they feel they deserve 30% pay rises per annum ? I.e. as GP's have enjoyed in recent years.


Though, I'm sure that 99% of patients would strongly disagree and perhaps even suggest that the GP and NHS services have deteriorated in recent years. As to save costs foreign doctors and staff have been brought in who can barely utter two words of English, dumped into the casualty words and after hour GP service areas. Who basically do not have a clue what they are doing !


Whether it by the GP surgery, casualty or the multitude of NHS departments such as the eye clinics. Invariable the first port of call is a foreign doctor or 'practician' with poor language skills accompanies dubious qualifications that has the power to send patients away with real symptoms. Who only later, after the condition has deteriorated are referred back to the said department to do the job properly ! Or in other circumstances the patient has gone off to PAY for private healthcare that is the whole purpose of the NHS's existence to service.


Even injured soldiers returning from the Iraq war, dumped in the NHS are complaining that they should be treated in Military Hospitals because the quality of healthcare is so bad. Better treatment than the rest of us ? There used to be 11 Military hospitals, now there is just 1.


Things are bad and expected to get much worse, despite the extra billions thrown at the NHS year in year out which just results in ever more cuts ! The next big cloud hanging over the NHS is the £61 billion pensions black hole that continues to grow ! This will mean more resources will be diverted from healthcare to fund the lush pension schemes that the vast majority of British public can only dream about.


What can be done about it ?


1. Avoid sentimentality - Don't get automatically sucked into the gravy train brigades persistent resistance to any type of market orientated reforms that attempt to introduce accountability and some resemblance of patient say in the matter. After all as anyone knows, money talks, but NOT currently where the NHS is free at the point of delivery !


2. Research the Facts - Do some research into the actual state of the NHS. Look at the facts rather than the propaganda. The facts speak for themselves. I.e. GP's rewarding themselves 30% annual pay rises. Hospitals running with outdated procedures, because the Consultants don't want to update into the 21st Century. An NHS where nurses and staff cannot even perform rudimentary hygiene, hence the outbreaks of 'super bugs' killing over 5000 a year.


3. Evaluate the alternatives to the current NHS system- The system is NOT working. And something drastic needs to be done. £110+ billions a year is more than enough to provide a decent health-care system We are paying for it, but not receiving it. Hence the people to decide whether a hospital is good or rubbish or a GP surgery is good or rubbish is the PATIENT, NOT those on the gravy train ! Not the Doctors, NOt the Management, Not the Consultants. But the Patients ! And it they decide the service is more or less worthless than THAT hospital or GP Surgery should be closed !


4. Reduce Reliance on Foreign Workers - As with the experiences of people in the Britain, by the switch to Foreign Call Centre's, the quality of service experienced has dropped. We should be training more of our young unemployed to be employed in the NHS rather than shifting in foreign workers from all over the world with relatively poor language skills, lack of understanding of the culture and patients and what the NHS is. Who invariable come from a culture where healthcare is paid for at the point of delivery. Hence when dropped into a free NHS system, invariably adopt the arrogance associated with treating someone for Free! Well its NOT Free, British tax payers, pay through the nose for this health care service.


5. Work for the NHS or the Private Sector - Not Both -The Doctors and Consultants need to be reigned in, they either work solely for the NHS, or they work solely for the private sector, this business of GP's collecting £100k+ on the NHS AND working for the private sector is totally unacceptable ! If someone on benefits also worked, then they would be in the courts for benefit fraud. This is one of the problems why we have to drag in foreign doctors to cover for NHS doctors off on a private session.


6. Part-Payment System - Both the patients, doctors and other medical practioners need to be able to see the monetary value of the service they are providing. This may mean a full privitisation of the NHS, or it may mean some sort of pre-payment, part-payment or voucher system. Where the money goes with the patient. So rather then view the patient as an inconvenience to get rid of quickly through the door, so as the next person can come in to up the numbers. The actual service from THAT patient directly carries a real value that the patient has a say with where it should go. I.e. choice of service. As with private medicine. The Hospital or Doctor you have booked a session with understands that they need to always do a good job ! Else they will lose business. This does NOT happen in the NHS, rather the poorer the service the more money in the pocket as less costs are incurred in treatment of patients.


A part-payment system is employed successfully in much of Europe, including socialist France where patients pay 1 euros towards a consultation. Even a small sum being handed over by the patient to the GP carries with it some exchange of value. If such a system were implemented in the UK where say each patient paid £10 per consultation then the quality of service afforded to patients would improve greatly !


A part-payment system would also make patients resistance to visiting their GP's with trivial conditions such as colds and flu.


7. GP Contracts mess needs to be fixed - The call went out that Doctors should have greater say in surgery budgets. Well we saw what the consequences of this was, GP's awarding themselves 30% pay deals per annum. Human nature being what it is, greed has meant billions are being wasted. Therefore there needs to be an urgent review of poorly thought out contracts and salaries and Lush pension schemes need to be reigned in so that there is some sort of incentive to perform effective the day to day duties of patient diagnosis rather then day dream of how to spend the extra thousands given as a result of Government incompetence and the greed of GP's.


8. Effective Management of Hospitals - Take power away from consultants and doctors and place it with people who know how to manage a large organisation, brought in from the private sector. Literally thousands of patients are needlessly dieing due to hospitals using outdated techniques and procedures, because consultants and other medical staff are resistance to change. This was recently highlighted in a BBC2 documentary


following Management Guru Gerry Robinson's attempts at diagnosing the NHS's terminal condition.


In the final analysis, we have to decide, do we want an national heath service that is primarily for those that work for it, or for the patients for whom it is meant to serve.

By Nadeem Walayat

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Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?NHS-Worst-Health-Service-in-Europe---How-to-Fix-it?&id=608789] NHS Worst Health Service in Europe - How to Fix it?

The Failure of NHS Dentistry Equals More Reforms

The Failure of NHS Dentistry Equals More Reforms
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Dr_John_Mantel] Dr John Mantel

It may not be a surprise to many people who use NHS dentistry on a regular basis, but a recent study has revealed that NHS dentistry has actually gotten worse since a reform was introduced by the government less than half a decade ago. As the relationship between NHS dentistry and the public becomes increasingly fractured ,more and more patients are beginning to opt for private dentistry than ever before.

In 2006 the government issued a new dental contract in order to improve the standards of NHS dentistry, which was, by the accounts of dentists and patients alike, badly in need of reform. Now, just three years after that reform, an independent review (that was commissioned by the government) has reported that the previous reform has done what many in England thought impossible: it has caused standards of NHS dentistry to fall even lower.

One of the most intriguing things that has been brought to light by the independent review is that over one million fewer patients visited an NHS dentist in the two years after the contract was brought in than had visited an NHS dentist in the two years prior to this. As a result of this, it looks like NHS dentistry is in line for yet another reform.

Andy Burnham, the Health Secretary, is one of the only people who has not acknowledged the reform as a total failure. However, most commentators on the subject are long past acknowledging that and a question being put forward regularly by commentators is that of why the 2006 reform was not successful.

An obvious reason for the failure of the 2006 reform lies in the story behind one particular statistic. NHS figures show that around one thousand dentists chose to stop doing NHS work when the reform was brought in, which was a move predicted by many unions at the time. Some went into retirement and others chose to move toward exclusively private work. However, one of the main reasons for the reform was the lack of NHS dentists. In certain areas of England it was virtually impossible for people living there to even access an NHS dentist. On top of this, many dentists signed the 2006 contract "in dispute". This meant that months were spent in discussion of the terms and conditions between managers and the dentistry profession, further complicating and delaying the reform.

These problems were, of course, just the tip of the iceberg, and the political opposition parties have been extremely vocal in their criticism of the reforms. One spokesperson for the Liberal Democrats went as far as to call NHS dentistry a "national disgrace."

Put simply, the changes made to NHS dentistry have been received very badly because they have not worked out and now the NHS contract is being totally reworked once again. It is hoped that the new contract will make it easier for patients to access information regarding dentists in their area, particularly ones who have NHS slots free. This will be done by setting up helplines for patients to call. It is also suggested that they will be able to call NHS Direct to get the information. The payment fee system is also due for a reworking.

Ultimately, private dentists have already benefited greatly from the poor image NHS dentistry has brought upon itself over the past decade, which is an image that the public will take some time to forget. A reform that actually works would certainly be a step in the right direction.

This article is free to republish provided the authors resource box below remains intact.

Dr John Mantel is a Dentist in Stockport who provides Dental Veneers in Manchester and full Smile Makeovers. Dr Mantel has considerable experience in guided bone regeneration techniques and bone grafting procedures, and also lectures internationally on implant dentistry.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Failure-of-NHS-Dentistry-Equals-More-Reforms&id=2689792] The Failure of NHS Dentistry Equals More Reforms

British Teeth Vs American Teeth

British Teeth Vs American Teeth
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=John_Z_Birch] John Z Birch

British teeth are often mocked by Americans and it is something that has even been mentioned in The Simpsons. The issue of British teeth vs American teeth has been heavily publicised in the British tabloids in recent times, especially as some of our celebrities have been criticised by American reporters. Ricky Gervais was famously complimented by a US journalist for wearing what he thought were false bad teeth and the journalist was shocked to learn they were real. This sparked a debate in the British media on the state of British teeth and if we deserved to be mocked by the Americans.

In Britain today most people don't have bad teeth. Although there are a lack of NHS dentists available in some areas, many people have started investing in dental plans to make sure they can get an appointment at the dental surgery. This trend looks set to continue with more dental surgeries signing up with dental plan providers. In Britain the main concern has always been with making sure they are healthy rather than going the American route of bright white teeth. There has been an increase in cosmetic dental surgery and an increase in the use of braces and veneers.

Teeth whitening is the latest American dentistry to hit these shores even though some teeth whitening products are only available online. The rise in the popularity of teeth whitening in the UK could be attributed to the number of Brit celebrities that have had their teeth whitened. Simon Cowell recently insisted that all the X Factor finalists underwent some teeth whitening in a top cosmetic dental surgery. As well as this everyone from Kate Blanchett to Richard Hammond have invested in a spot of teeth whitening so it is not surprising to see an increase among the public.

If you are interested in finding out more about [http://www.britishteeth.co.uk]British Teeth and see the latest news on celebrity teeth as well as teeth whitening information then why not visit British Teeth.

To find out more about British [http://www.dpas.co.uk]Dental Plans then why not visit DPAS.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?British-Teeth-Vs-American-Teeth&id=2005193] British Teeth Vs American Teeth

British Dentistry Virtually Matches the State of the UK's Teeth

British Dentistry Virtually Matches the State of the UK's Teeth
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Michael_Challiner] Michael Challiner

The latest Adult Dental Health Survey has published their long awaited findings and they do not make good reading. They say that during the average life span of Britons, (76 for men and 80 for women) that they will, if they seek private dental care, have to spend almost 15,000 pounds of hard earned money. This seems to be a very high cost to take care of the eight adult teeth that are lost before they reach the age of forty-five. They then have to manage with the twenty-four teeth that remain.

However, this does not apply to the vast majority; they seek their dental care from the NHS. This though, is where the huge and growing problem of the national dental care infrastructure lies. The Dental Practice Board survey again provides figures - only 44 per cent, or 18 million adults (therefore not including children and their teeth) are registered with a dentist.

'Crisis point ' has been reached says the British Dental Associations trade union on the shortage of dentists: a 9 per cent 'under-supply' according to a report from the Primary Care Dental Workforce Review of February 2008. It is worrying that politicians on the opposition benches are not applying pressure to try and remedy this shortfall.

Today there are too many places in Britain with no dental services at all, and when new practices open, there are so many people needing treatment the dentists cannot cope.

If the primary dental care is a mess, so is the method of funding it. NHS patients have to pay 80 per cent of their costs (they expect it to be free). Nor is it any better in the private dental sector, a 1 billion pound market, and according to the OFT (Office of Fair Trading) consumers lack knowledge of costs of care, quality of services, and even what services are available on the NHS.

Over the country as a whole there is a wide variation in the regions in pricing. There is also a distinct lack of information and prices in some areas are double, or more, than that in others.

Our researcher explains that many private dentists in an almost monopolistic situation and can charge whatever they wish. As in any monopoly there is thus no pressure to lower prices.

There are plenty of insurance plans to help with cost of dental care. Many have schemes with private practices and typically their monthly premium for an adult is around 15.50 pounds, which annually equates to 186 pounds. Therefore over an 80 year lifetime, the cost would be 14,880 pounds.

It seems the moral of the story is look after your teeth.

However, if to be safe, people would like a dentist's assessment of the state of their teeth and possible future expensive treatment; this can be done, with the dentists providing a monthly cost plan. They then commence the a plan paying a set rate each month until another assessment in 2 to 3 years time. But we believe costs will rise due to more advanced treatments and equipment.

Michael Challiner is the editor of Brokers Online one of the UK's largest financial websites. [http://www.life-assurance-bureau.co.uk/]Brokers Online Insurance offers its clients access to most uk financial products including [http://www.life-assurance-bureau.co.uk/dental-insurance/]Dental Insurance Quotes. Visit Brokers Online to gain access to a wealth of articles and information about Dental Insurance.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?British-Dentistry-Virtually-Matches-the-State-of-the-UKs-Teeth&id=2123128] British Dentistry Virtually Matches the State of the UK's Teeth

Dental Insurance - What is a Capitation Plan?

Dental Insurance - What is a Capitation Plan?
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Michael_Challiner] Michael Challiner

When considering dental insurance one of the most popular plans nowadays, especially for people with a history of dental problems who may need regular treatment, is the capitation plan.

If you decide that this is what you want to do, your dentist will calculate the monthly premium that you will pay based on an oral health check and costs of running the surgery. Also, there will usually be an initial examination fee included in a comprehensive scheme and because you pay directly to the dentist prices may differ from dentist to dentist as there are no standard fees. The monthly payment is the same each month and will cover you for any treatment that you may require regardless of the cost.

There are two types of capitation plan; one is a maintenance plan and covers basic accidental or emergency treatment and standard maintenance, and the other is comprehensive which will cover more complicated procedures such as extractions or fillings.

There are mixed reports on these plans - those who are in favour say that the dentist is able to spend more time with their patients, and those who are not enamored are of the opinion that patients are almost strong-armed into these schemes so that dentists can optimise the earning potential of their private dental surgeries.

As we said earlier, capitation plans are most suitable for those who know that they will need a fair amount of dental care and it enables them to spread the cost of paying for it rather than having to pay rather large bills whenever any work is done.

Below we explain in more detail the different types of cover and the difference in their price structures and there is often mandatory insurance included for hospital benefits and oral cancer and dental accident or emergency.

Maintenance Plan - With a maintenance plan it is fairly standard to be covered for two examinations and two oral hygiene checks which includes X-rays each year.

The cost of this per month is around ten to fifteen pounds - you are not required to have an initial examination and you get discounts on any other procedures that you may need and may also include an initial registration fee.

Comprehensive Plan - A comprehensive plan generally offers unlimited treatment and includes examinations, hygiene checks, root canal and extraction, crowns, fillings bridges and X-rays.

Your monthly premium is calculated on your oral health and is usually between ten and fourteen pounds. If you have fairly good oral hygiene you could pay below twenty pounds per month. An initial registration fee may or may not be included depending on individual practices.

It would be prudent to have some kind of dental cover even for peace of mind with the ever decreasing numbers of NHS dentists. If you have got problem teeth then it would be fair to say that it is essential cover to have and can work out to be cost effective.

If you want to find a plan that is suitable for you the best action is to find an online broker who can search the whole market for you and find you the best deals so that you can compare them, and the cover that they give, so you can find a policy that is suitable for you.

Michael Challiner is the editor of Brokers Online, one of the UK's largest financial websites. [http://www.life-assurance-bureau.co.uk]Life Insurance Brokers Online offers its clients most UK financial products including [http://www.life-assurance-bureau.co.uk/dental-insurance/]Dental Insurance Cover. Visit Brokers Online to access a wealth of articles and information about Dental Insurance.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Dental-Insurance---What-is-a-Capitation-Plan?&id=2123134] Dental Insurance - What is a Capitation Plan?