Day: February 17, 2021

Types Of Treatments To Prevent Dental Disease

Types Of Treatments To Prevent Dental Disease

Dental Check-Up

Regular checkups are vital to keeping your teeth and gums healthy. If you wait until there is a problem with your teeth, the damage is done. You can’t always tell that your teeth have a problem, so you may be surprised how your dentist determines it during a routine checkup.

Early detection can make a big difference. The earlier your dentist can detect cavities or other oral health problems, the easier it can be to treat and manage. Checkups also provide preventive care to reduce the risk of future infection or cavities.

Dental Cleaning

Most people can do routine maintenance on their vehicles without a problem. Fill the fuel tank, keeping the types pumped, replacing windshield washer fluids, etc. Although all these basic and useful things can be done at home, everyone will have their car professionally serviced from time to time to keep it running at its optimum level. Your oral health is the same!

Going to the dentist for regular cleaning is all part of maintaining optimal oral health.

The plaque and tartar build-up over time, often in the smaller confines and crevices of your teeth and gums. A professional dental cleaning sometimes referred to as ” scaling and polishing ” will remove these substances from your teeth, making it easier for you to clean and prevent bacterial build-up during your regular oral hygiene routine at home.

Types Of Treatments To Prevent Dental Disease

Braces Or Orthodontics

The braces are easily the most common form of orthodontics or cosmetic dentistry.

Commonly performed shortly after permanent teeth have finished erupting, they are therefore treatments most associated with tweens and teens.

There may be medical reasons for wearing dental braces, such as crowded teeth that could have negative health consequences. However, dental appliances are more commonly designed to improve the aesthetic appearance of the teeth and achieve perfect alignment.

Dental Bridges

Although the aesthetic effect of missing teeth is often a concern, the biggest problem is what happens with the ability to chew food, keep the gums healthy, and when the teeth surrounding the space begin to change. Dental bridges are the solution.

A dental bridge is so named because it occupies the space where a tooth or teeth have been lost.

Several different types of dental bridges can be used depending on the situation.

Dental Crowns

The enamel of the teeth is very strong, but when cracks or fractures occur in the structure, the entire tooth can be compromised. Dental crowns are a way to restore the integrity of the structure and can also be used to refine the aesthetic appearance of the teeth.

Although they can be used to improve the aesthetic appearance of malformed or discolored teeth, crowns are most often used to restore ‘at risk’ teeth with large worn fillings, very large cracks, or cavities that have been subjected to a root canal.

To restore the functionality of a damaged tooth, a crown has to be strong and able to withstand considerable pressure. Most crowns are made of porcelain, which can be condensed with a gold alloy, or made of acrylic.

Preparation For A Crown

There are a few steps involved in getting a dental crown fitted. Diagnostic, casts, and X-rays are taken to evaluate the tooth and determine if any treatment is required before starting the crown.

The tooth then has to be shaped and prepared to receive the crown. A mold of the tooth is made and used to create an exact model from which the crown is prepared.

Placing The Crown

If you need to re-have a dental crown fitted, the dentist will remove the temporary crown and the cement before checking the fit of the new permanent crown.

Once it is confirmed to fit properly, the crown is fixed in place with permanent cement.

After dental crown placement, it is common to experience mild sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures on the tooth for several weeks. 

Purpose Of Dental Implants

The root of each tooth is a placeholder in the special sockets that hold the teeth in the jaw. If a tooth is lost, the bone structures around the socket may begin to recede, the remaining teeth may begin to shift, and in the long run, this can cause unnecessary complications to oral health.

A dental implant is an artificial substitute for the root of a tooth made of titanium. It is surgically inserted into the jawbones and fused with the jawline to create the foundation needed to receive a crown, bridge, or prosthesis.

Eligibility For A Dental Implant

Anyone who is reasonably healthy and wants to replace missing teeth is a possible candidate for dental implants.

Specific factors for eligibility include the presence of sufficient bone in the area of ?? the missing teeth to provide anchorage for the implants.

Toothless people (all of their teeth are missing) can choose to have implants, as long as they have enough bone structure for surgery.

Certain factors, such as diabetes, smoking, bleeding disorders, dependence on particular medications, as well as compromised physical and mental integrity, can influence whether or not an individual is suitable for this dental procedure.

Oral Health Problems, Are They Genetic?

Oral Health Problems, Are They Genetic?

5 clinical states that can run in the family

Your parents may have given you more than just eye color and your sense of humor. You may also have inherited a higher risk of having dental problems.

Yes, dental problems can run in the family. And it’s not just because you’ve picked up bad family habits, or caught mouth bacteria from sharing silverware. Many oral health problems have a hereditary basis. That means you may be at higher risk of developing certain clinical states, regardless of your habits.

To get a better picture of your risks, find out if your family members have a history of any of the following diseases.

1. Periodontal Disease (In The Gums)

Up to 30% of the population may be genetically predisposed to gum disease. 

Early diagnosis and treatment can be beneficial in protecting your gums and teeth. Is gum disease a problem that your family members struggle with? Be sure to tell your dentist.

2. Caries

Do you have cavities? Your ancestors may be to blame. Certain variations of the beta-defensin 1 (DEFB1) gene are associated with an increased risk of developing cavities in permanent teeth.

If your teens are at higher risk for cavities, talk to your dentist about sealant and fluoride treatments. Adults at higher risk for cavities may find benefits using prescription kinds of toothpaste or mouthwashes. And be sure to go to the dentist for frequent exams and cleanings. Left untreated, cavities can aggravate gum disease and eventually lead to tooth loss.

3. Cancer In The Mouth

Every year, this deadly disease is responsible for the deaths of thousands of Americans. While lifestyle choices, such as tobacco and alcohol, are the main risk factors for oral cancer, genetics may also play a minor role. People who carry certain genetic markers are at higher risk of developing the disease.

You can reduce your risks by quitting tobacco, cutting back on alcohol, and eating a balanced diet.

Oral Health Problems, Are They Genetic?

4. Misaligned Teeth

If you need braces, you are probably not the only one in your family. Genetics plays an important role in determining the size of the jaw. This, in turn, can lead to crowding, gaps, deep bites, and prognathism.

If dental misalignment is a common problem in your family, find an orthodontist for your child. Early orthodontic treatment can benefit many young patients, allowing developing bones and teeth to grow properly and prevent more serious problems in the future.

5. Cleft Lip Or Palate

A common congenital defect, cleft lip or palate occurs when the sides of the lip or the top of the mouth do not come together properly. Genetics may be a factor: Babies of Asian, Latino, and Native American descent are the most likely to be born with a cleft, as their parents themselves possibly have a cleft lip or palate.

The teeth worn or loose can be a symptom of gum disease or bruxism, a disorder characterized by grinding or clenching of teeth repeatedly. Bruxism usually occurs during sleep, so the person is not aware of it, but it can also occur during the day; People with bruxism should avoid clenching or grinding their teeth during the day. Bruxism can lead to tooth erosion, which is the wear of the chewing surfaces of the teeth. Tooth erosion can also occur from chewing abrasive foods or tobacco, or from the wear and tear that accompanies aging, and can decrease the effectiveness of chewing.

The teeth with an abnormal form can be a symptom of genetic diseases, hormonal disorders, or infections acquired before they left the teeth. They can also become deformed from fractures or chipping caused by trauma to the mouth.

Abnormal tooth color is not the same as the darkening or yellowing of the teeth that occurs with age or with exposure of the teeth to substances that stain, such as coffee, tea, and tobacco smoke. The gray hue of a tooth can be a symptom of previous infections inside the tooth, which have seriously damaged the pulp, the living tissue of the tooth. The same can happen when a permanent tooth replaces an infected baby tooth. Permanent tooth staining can be caused by taking tetracycline before 9 years of age, or by taking it by the mother during the second half of pregnancy. An excessive intake of fluorides during childhood can cause mottling of the hard tooth surface (the enamel).

Abnormal tooth enamel can be due to a diet lacking in vitamin D, as in rickets. It can also be the result of a childhood infection (such as measles or chickenpox) that occurred when permanent teeth were forming, or a result of gastroesophageal reflux or repeated vomiting, as occurs in bulimia nervosa, as acid of the stomach dissolves the surface of the teeth. Swimmers who spend too long in excessively chlorinated pools can lose tooth enamel, as can people who work with acids. The excessive intake of fluoride(fluorosis) during childhood can cause enamel staining. Damaged tooth enamel can facilitate the bacterial invasion of the tooth, which will form a cavity.

Oral Health During Pregnancy

Oral Health During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful stages in the life of a woman, but it is also a stage full of care and changes in certain habits, especially to be able to carry out a healthy process, as well as take care of the baby’s development.

It is very important to mention that studies have been carried out, where a certain relationship has been found between periodontal disease and premature births, said disease is caused by factors such as the presence of antibacterial plaque and tartar, due to poor hygiene or toothbrush technique deficient, systemic diseases, among others.

It must be borne in mind that everything is intimately connected, that is, the nutrients of the food we eat reach the fetus, there is also a certain influence of the emotions that are experienced during this period with the baby. The best thing is to determine that he will be affected or benefited by the conditions of how this process is conducted.

But What Does Periodontitis Have To Do With Pregnancy?

Periodontitis, as we mentioned above, is an oral disease that is defined as the loss of the supporting tissues that surround the tooth, these tissues are the gum, ligament, and bone. While pregnancy is a stage where, to carry out the development of life within the woman, certain levels of acids and hormones are elevated so that the body can perform its tasks.

So if I’m pregnant, is it necessary to go to a dental consultation?

It is as necessary as going to your usual consultation with your family dentist, since you should have periodic hygiene, preferably every trimester to avoid inflammation of the gums, which is more common in pregnant patients due to the same elevation in levels of hormones and acids.

Another very important point is the control of any condition that in the long run can trigger an infection or dental emergency.

Is It Safe To Have Dental Treatments During Pregnancy?

Sure, it’s safe, as long as proper precautions are taken. For example, when taking X-rays, they should only be done when a tooth is compromised and a lead apron and neck should be placed to avoid radiation to the fetus.

You also need to know that since each patient is different, has different conditions, or is in different circumstances, the management of both drugs and local anesthetics has to be adapted to these characteristics, in this case depending on which trimester they are in.

Come with us to answer all your questions and take control during your pregnancy. Schedule your appointment and get to know us, we are happy to assist you.

Dentures

Far from the traditional idea of false teeth, modern prosthetics are used by large numbers of people of all ages to replace teeth and improve their appearance. Dentures come in a wide variety of designs, from conventional dentures to removable dentures. Some prostheses are permanent implants.

 Why Are Dentures Necessary?

There are some reasons why someone may lose their teeth in their lifetime. Most tooth extractions are necessary due to periodontal disease or cavities. But sometimes teeth can be removed due to defects or deterioration caused by other health problems. And often, teeth are lost through injury.

The loss of some teeth can even cause problems, as well as affecting their appearance. If there are multiple missing teeth, there is less support for the cheeks and lips, and this can cause the facial muscles to sag.

This impairment can make eating and talking more difficult.

Replacing missing teeth with prosthetics restores the appearance of your smile while providing the support necessary to keep your entire face healthy.

It is important to replace loose or worn dentures. Poorly fitting dentures can cause discomfort, infections, and sores. Loose dentures can make it difficult to eat or speak.

Full Dentures

When thinking about dentures, most of us have a picture of a complete set of dentures in our minds.

If a patient has a complete absence of teeth, both upper (maxillary) and lower (mandibular) arches, they may receive a pair of complete dentures, also known as “full” dentures.

Partial Dentures

As the name suggests, partial dentures are used when not all of the patient’s teeth are missing and only some have to be replaced.

These prostheses can be tooth-supported or a tooth and compatible tissue. The dental technician will be able to explain the differences and advise on the best option.

Dental Diseases In Childhood

Dental Diseases In Childhood

Caries In Primary And Permanent Dentition

Decay is a disease of the teeth that begins with the demineralization of tooth enamel due to the presence of bacteria on its surface. The loss of enamel is due to the fermentation of sugars by bacteria that live in the oral cavity (mainly a germ called Streptococcus mutans). Inadequate hygiene and frequent sugar consumption are important factors in the development of tooth decay.

The initial lesions of caries are small whitish spots on the tooth surface, which evolve towards the loss of dental tissue and the formation of cavities. It is generally the dentist who diagnoses that a cavity is beginning. Parents may also see incipient signs, such as a change in tooth color, loss of shine in an area, the appearance of a yellow or brown border, etc.

Once a cavity occurs, another type of bacteria appears (Lactobacillus sp.) That is responsible for invading and destroying the dentin.

What are the complications derived from this dental disease?

The complications of dental caries are not only the destruction of the tooth but the infection of the adjacent tissues:

  • Dental pulp (pulpitis).
  • Bone tissue neighboring the root of the tooth (periapical abscess).
  • More distant bone tissue (dental abscess, maxillary abscess).
  • Infections of the soft tissues of the face (facial cellulitis or periorbital cellulitis).

In the case of a caries of a temporary tooth, there is not the only destruction of this, but also an alteration in the development of the definitive tooth that is underneath.

Dental Diseases In Childhood

How Can They Be Prevented?

The main way to prevent cavities is daily hygiene. In children under 2 years of age, teeth should be cleaned with gauze or a small brush. From the age of 2, you should use a toothbrush and from the age of 3, you should add a small amount of fluoride paste. Teeth should be brushed after every meal.

The pacifier should not be offered soaked in sugar, honey, or other sugary liquids.

Unnatural juices or sugary drinks are not recommended.

At 6 years of age, it is recommended that permanent molar fissures be sealed.

In children at high risk for cavities, the dentist or pediatrician may recommend oral fluoride supplements, drops, or tablets. The risk of cavities is high in:

  • Children having salivary glands are deficient as a result of various diseases such as Sjogren’s disease, the disease Mikulicz, the radiotherapy prolonged, etc.
  • Children have a high possibility of colonization of the oral cavity with bacteria that come from another location. This can happen if they have some diseases such as gastroesophageal reflux, bulimia, or mental retardation.

Tips To Alleviate Dental Diseases In Childhood

Decay is a disease of the teeth that begins with the demineralization of tooth enamel due to the presence of bacteria on its surface. The loss of enamel is due to the fermentation of sugars by bacteria that live in the oral cavity (mainly a germ called Streptococcus mutans). Inadequate hygiene and frequent sugar consumption are important factors in the development of tooth decay.

The initial lesions of caries are small whitish spots on the tooth surface, which evolve towards the loss of dental tissue and the formation of cavities. It is generally the dentist who diagnoses that a cavity is beginning. Parents may also see incipient signs, such as a change in tooth color, loss of shine in an area, the appearance of a yellow or brown border, etc.

Once a cavity occurs, another type of bacteria appears (Lactobacillus sp.) That is responsible for invading and destroying the dentin.

Why do cavities occur?

Caries are caused by the colonization of the mouth by bacteria and by the presence of sugar that can be fermented by these bacteria.

The bacteria responsible for the appearance and development of cavities come from the mouth of other people (parents, caregivers, nursery companions …), so it is advisable to wash the pacifiers frequently, avoid that other people suck or touch them with hands and avoid kisses on the mouth of children. To prevent tooth decay, sugary sweets and soft drinks are also discouraged. It is very important to clean children’s teeth from an early age even with just water.

The main cause of massive enamel damage in children under three years of age is the use of nightly bottles of milk. Its substitution by breastfeeding or bottles of water considerably reduces the risk of developing cavities. These are usually children under 18 months who have not yet had a chance to visit the dentist.

The Most Common Oral Diseases And How To Prevent Them

The Most Common Oral Diseases And How To Prevent Them

Dental Cavities

Cavities are caused by the action of bacteria found in the food you eat. There are usually thousands of bacteria in your mouth and most are beneficial, but some of them form tight-knit colonies called plates, these microorganisms survive when you digest the foods you eat, especially those that break down into simple sugars such as candies and sweets, as well as other foods with a large number of carbohydrates, for example, pasta, bread, cereals, milk, nuts, juices, and sweetened beverages.

Dental Filling To End Cavities

The treatment to cure cavities is very simple and involves making a filling or filling.

This substance very closely mimics the exact shade of the piece, so, even if it is done on the front teeth, it does not affect the aesthetics of the smile.

It is important to treat caries as soon as we notice the first symptoms, which usually translate into pain or discomfort in the tooth and intense sensitivity.

If you do not act quickly, caries will continue to destroy the dental layers and will require a more complex intervention than a filling: a root canal or root canal treatment.

Regardless of the procedure, the intervention of a dentist is essential, since caries is the leading cause of premature tooth loss in young

Gingivitis

 It is an oral disease, usually bacterial, that causes inflammation of the gums. If plaque is not removed with daily brushing and flossing, it produces toxins that can irritate gum tissue and cause gingivitis. In this early stage of gum disease, the damage can be reversed, as the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place are not yet affected. However, gingivitis can turn into periodontitis and cause permanent damage to dental braces.

Professional Dental Prophylaxis

To treat gingivitis, as long as it is not overly developed, you can resort to professional dental hygiene.

The prophylaxis that we offer at Ferrus & Bratos is more comprehensive when compared to what other clinics offer.

Not only does it last 50 minutes, but we use more advanced techniques to ensure complete cleaning: ultrasound tip and air polisher, among others.

Along with this treatment, it is possible to stop gingivitis by extreme hygiene at home.

The Most Common Oral Diseases And How To Prevent Them

Periodontitis

It seems to be the most common oral disease. It is a bacterial infection caused by microorganisms that destroy the support of the tooth, the gums, and the bone that are supporting the teeth. The first symptom identified by the general population is bleeding gums,   gingivitis, and tooth mobility.

PeriodontalTreatment

But don’t be alarmed: pyorrhea can also be treated.

However, it is a more complicated procedure because it requires measurements to check the depth of the accumulated tartar, as well as another series of dental tests.

Once the periodontist knows how far the tartar reaches, a dental curettage is performed to clean the entire subgingival area.

Thus, you can take a sample of the bacteria and perform a microbiological study to prescribe an effective antibiotic.

Halitosis And Bad Breath: 

Halitosis is caused by the batteries we have in our mouths. In the morning, morning breath is usually much more unpleasant than during the day, this is caused thanks to the fact that at night we salivate less, causing the number of bacteria in the mouth to increase. At 14-85 Dental Spa, we give you some tips to end bad breath.

Identify The Source Of Halitosis

On the other hand, when halitosis is extraoral, it has its origin in systemic problems, such as those related to the digestive system or liver or kidney diseases.

Although at first glance bad breath may seem only a social problem for those who suffer from it, the truth is that it can be a clue to more serious pathology.

Therefore, how you treat bad breath depends on what causes it.

If it is due to insufficient hygiene, it will be necessary to incorporate a tongue cleaner and other auxiliary oral cleaning elements.

But if it is due to any disease that we have mentioned, they will have to be addressed to end bad breath.

Tooth Sensitivity: 

It affects 1 in 3 Colombians and it becomes evident when we consume cold, hot, acidic foods and even with the passage of very cold air. This sensitivity is related to the brushing technique, the products used and even age, which causes certain structures of the tooth (root) to be more exposed and these symptoms appear. Therefore, the advice is to pay attention so that it does not end in a bigger problem.

Herpes Labialis

Besides, even if it disappears, herpes tends to appear throughout our lives if we have ever suffered it since the virus does not disappear.

Treatment To Relieve Symptoms

As with canker sores, cold sores do not require any treatment, but rather heals on their own.

In the same way, in pharmacies, you can ask for a specific drug to accelerate its disappearance.

But keep in mind that these products only relieve symptoms, but they do not eradicate the virus.

If you do not use any drug, herpes takes between 10 and 15 days to disappear, as it is the natural process of the virus.