Archive for November, 2011

30

How Teeth Straightening Can Help Your Career

Nov
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by Kristenne Snelson

The dental care industry has come up with different ways and techniques for teeth straightening. With the present day science, you can also reap the benefits of a delightful smile with a set of perfect teeth.

If you have perfect teeth and a beautiful smile, what will it exactly do for your career? You are probably thinking, you’re smile is just fine. It is not as important if you’re not a model or if your address is not Hollywood. You may be right but you could also be wrong!

Some studies have directly correlated smile to the working environment. A smile ultimately brings a positive energy that is powerfully contagious.

Ways teeth straightening can change your work life:

-         Confidence can get you farther. Confidence comes out naturally when you feel good about yourself. If you know you have no crooked teeth to hide behind your lips, it is much easier to give a welcoming smile as well as brighten someone else’s day.

-         Communicate with a smile. They say fifty five percent of communication relies on body language. A smile can make you look more approachable. It will make you a delightful person to work with. Co-workers won’t hesitate to talk to you and people will actually want to be with you.

-         Smile to impress. When you smile, you leave your co-employees and probably your boss with a good impression. A smile is always identified with a positive outlook which employers are specifically looking for. It reflects that you are enjoying your job and the people.

People who work with enthusiasm can make a stressful work day bearable and encouraging. Management will be looking for someone who has a positive perception at work and can possibly bring others to do so. According to the website PayScale.com, employees who possess positive energy enjoy working, will not mind if they need to offer extra time, and are very much willing to help others out. Hence, they are more likely to get noticed by the management and get promoted.

Ultimately, a smile can help bring out the best in you. This goes for your personal, social and even work life. Competency and positive attitude are the perfect formula to a successful career. And this is how teeth straightening can help you achieve all that.

Forms of teeth straightening

There are different forms of straightening teeth. The most common procedures are conventional braces and dental veneers. There have also been new found ways for teeth straightening that are less costly but equally effective. These procedures even require less time to achieve results and much more comfortable compared to the conventional techniques. But before you decide for yourself, make sure to consult your dentist first. Find out what is best for you. It is easier to be safe than sorry. After all, you are aiming for a great smile. You don’t want to end up with a frown instead.

The power of a smile should never be underestimated. A lot of people realize this and the teeth play a vital role in a great smile. Teeth straightening procedures can help you achieve that. Then you can affect the people around you. So, what’s your reason to smile, let us know!

29

Four Half – Truths on Alternative to Braces

Nov
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by Kristenne Snelson

An even straight set of teeth is what everyone wants, especially youngsters.  Dental brace is one of the most popular dental procedures that will align crooked set of teeth.  However, dental maintenance and management is constantly changing and more alternative to braces are sprouting in the market.   But before you opt for any of these alternatives, be sure to consider issues and concerns first as these may even damage your teeth.

Here are some of ideas for your consideration:

1.  Most people complain that wearing braces is uncomfortable at times.  However, other alternatives are uncomfortable too. In the case of invisalign (invisible braces), it needs an average of 20-22 hours putting it on every day to make it work.  Taking it on and off can be very taxing for some people. Thus, braces which have longer wearing period other than alternative to braces like invisalign are better in terms of comfort. In the case of veneer, it can be uncomfortable with your teeth since the procedure involves chipping of a portion of teeth enamel to make the veneer fit to a tee.

2.  Some misconstrue the word alternative and associate it with fewer expenses.  The truth is; alternative to braces can be as expensive as dental braces.  In some cases, the total cost of invisalign method can be as high as $9,000 dollars.  While veneer is cheaper, the risk of breaking it is relatively high and it takes a new set to replace the broken one, which means additional cost on your part.

3.  Alternative options for braces are not for everybody.  Just like other medical procedures, specific dental alignment is compatible only to some.  For example, invisalign is generally intended for adults with few exceptions among teenagers.  In addition, if you have memory problems, forgetting them can affect the process.  Instead of correcting crooked set of teeth, time lapse in replacing may offset any improvement already made.

4.  There is also a perception that all dentists can perform different dental procedures.  Several dental care websites warn people about dealing with dental professionals.  You must see to it that these people are licensed to perform invisalign, veneers or any other procedure to avoid issues which may cause more harm than good. Aside from possible dental complications, correcting the problem afterwards means shelling out money again.

Alternative to braces like veneer and invisalign have their own merits. It is also important that you know the pros and cons behind each procedure, so that you can select the appropriate teeth alignment process that is comfortable, less costly, reliable, and hassle free for you. A consultation with your dentist or orthodontist is a plus.  You must remember that damages to your teeth are usually irreparable and irreplaceable. So do not be hasty when it comes to repairing your crooked teeth. Always remember the old saying ‘haste is waste’ and what a waste indeed when instead of alignment correction, procedures end up with teeth extraction.

25

Oral Care for Great Smile and Overall Health

Nov
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by Kristenne Snelson

It does not take a genius to understand the importance of oral care. Everybody knows the power of a great smile or a set of perfect white teeth that can light up an entire room. It is something that is difficult to achieve and maintain though. And everybody realizes that. Such is a gift that does not come naturally. It has to be worked on through a good oral care practice.

Benefits of Oral Care

Although it is important to get a great smile with clean and white teeth, it should not be forgotten though that there are other reasons and benefits of oral care. Bad breath is more common than everybody thinks. Some come from pure laziness or poor oral hygiene but others are only results of underlying reasons including more serious health issues. In the case of the former, it can easily be treated by improving oral hygiene practice.

When the teeth are clean, plaque and tartar are removed from the teeth which will prevent cavity buildup that may lead to gingivitis and other gum diseases. Aside from cleaning the teeth, cleaning the tongue is also essential in preventing bad breath. During digestion as the teeth breaks down food pieces, the tongue also plays a part. Naturally, it also becomes a haven for bad breath causing bacteria coming from food particles that may already be decaying. Cleaning the tongue also helps remove the type of bacteria that may cause tooth decay as well as gum problems.

Teeth Whitening and Bleaching

Oral care, however, is not limited to brushing and flossing. It can also involve other practices and remedies that will contribute to having a pearly white smile such as teeth whitening. The teeth get easily tarnished because of constant exposure to food and beverage that are teeth staining. Drinking wine, coffee, tea or eating beets and berries as well as smoking tobacco can turn the pearly whites into a mess. Regular brushing and flossing are good oral hygiene practices but they may just not be enough. Teeth staining from food require more effort to remove. Some people pay for teeth bleaching and others spend for more sophisticated procedures which does not come cheap.

Aside from the expensive dental cosmetic procedures that remove discoloration and whiten teeth, there are products that may take time to take effect but are absolutely less expensive. Teeth whitening remedies include products that employ the science of microencapsulation. With the use of teeth whitening peroxide as its base ingredient, most of these products are safe but may not be as convenient to use. Others come in smart packages which allow users to maintain regular application.

While it is good to care for one’s physical appearance, the benefits of oral care does not end at a great smile. Some clinical studies have seen a correlation between poor oral hygiene to serious systemic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetic complications, bacterial pneumonia, and others. Looking good on the outside is important but caring for one’s overall health is far more critical than other concerns.

24

A Reminder on Basic Dental Care

Nov
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by Kristenne Snelson

Taking great care of chewing tools is a serious matter. Dental care is not cheap especially if damage is already beyond filling and extraction.  It is sad to note that despite the latest technologies in dental health maintenance, there are still a huge number of individuals who have complicated teeth and gum problems.  This can be attributed to lots of factors such as behavioral problems, financial insecurities, lack of priorities, vices or lifestyle issues, and medical conditions.  Whatever the reasons are, making our teeth and gums healthy starts from within the person.  No amount of convincing about the benefits of excellent dental health will be useful if the individual is not doing his own share. The ideas below are not new and groundbreaking but these continue to help people be reminded about dental health management.

Going to a dentist should not be a financial massacre if it means the dental care provided makes you a little healthier. A lot of savings can be achieved when an individual consistently practice good oral hygiene acquired during younger years.  The problem with some people is they practice less on proper oral hygiene habits as they grow older.  They only remember their dentist when their teeth are loaded with plaque, when teeth are loosed, and gums are swelling. Regular brushing and flossing and visits to the dentist at least twice a year eliminates or minimizes oral and dental complications thus, avoiding expensive dental procedures such as teeth implants or porcelain dentures.  So, continuously practicing good oral hygiene as the person grows older is a must to eliminate the need for expensive dental care procedures and fees.

When a person reaches the stages of young adulthood, he or she is exposed to vices such as drinking alcoholic drinks and smoking cigarettes.  A lot has been said about the ill effects of these in the body.  It weakens different systems and exposes the body to various medical complications.  People need to be reminded that alcohol is sugar based and when intake is beyond tolerable levels, it makes the person too lazy and intoxicated to perform oral hygiene habits thus; residues left in the mouth turn to plaque and if not attended to immediately will lead to deterioration of the teeth. Smoking on the other hand is also a great dental deterioration contributor.  Nicotine leaves stains in the teeth which can lead to the development of tartar and plaque which can only be eliminated afterwards through the help of a dentist.  Smoking also affects our gums and it cause constant inflammation and swelling.    In addition to this, there are thousands of chemical contents in a cigarette stick alone.  It increases the chances of developing oral cancer and other diseases that our dentists can do nothing about.

Healthy gums and teeth are not only a responsibility of our dentists.  Everyone should continue to practice good oral hygiene habits and avoid smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol.  These basic dental care tips if followed habitually can save money, avoid embarrassment due to stained teeth or bad breath, and minimize or prevent dental complications.

23

A Little Of This & That About Adult Braces

Do not think of adult braces as a nuisance instead think of them as being young again. Despite the braces for adults cost an arm and a leg, it is still worth it. Straightened teeth are beautiful and admired, especially when you are able to show an amazing smile. Everyone knows that crooked teeth are noticeable and looks unattractive. Although that is a pretty harsh statement but it is the truth. Years ago it was not such a big deal to have teeth that looked like a hack saw. However, it is not so today. Even the British have decided to prefer dental work than be forever looking unappealing.  It’s a common knowledge that most people perceive beauty is everything.  A person with a beautiful set of teeth will always be preferred over one that looks like a mouthful of rusty nail. Braces are not just for children, adults can benefit from them just as well.

There are a couple of braces out on the market that will be discussed here. Invisalign is one option. Typically the orthodontist will take and send out different molds, a set of x-rays, and a plan for treatment.  Then Invisalign will develop a simulation on the computer and then sends it back to your orthodontist for his/her approval.  If the plan has to be modified the process starts all over.  Regardless, you do not just walk in and have this procedure done. The process takes time. Invisalign is appealing because they are clear and removable. You take them out and brush your teeth normally. One disadvantage is that they do come with a higher cost than conventional braces.  This is one of the braces for adults cost that have to be well planned for a successful dental treatment.

The other option is to have a non-removable litigating or lingual braces.  One has the hardware on the outside and other on the inside of the teeth.  Both options can take some getting used to.  Eating, talking, and even sleeping habits will have to adapt to its limitations.  These types of teeth straightening methods are basically not that far off the price of Invisalign. Certain foods cannot be eaten and brushing the teeth is tedious.  As well, they will likely be attached for years.  Once they are removed, usually a retainer must be worn to fill in teeth gap and to properly push the teeth together.  Contrary to popular belief, braces do not set off metal detectors.

The options above both accomplish the same result and that is to have a pretty smile.  Getting braces is a bit invasive and requires a lot of consideration. Consultations, treatment plans, pricing, and all other requiremens of such dental care goes into the whole planning process.  Especially, the braces for adults cost is not a trivial matter. However, they are something you have to be committed to because once you have them you are stuck with them.  Follow ups, teeth cleanings, and adjustments all have to be accounted for. It is not as simple as just setting it and forgetting it.  As I have mentioned before, adult braces are a financial obligation.  They are very expensive and are an investment that takes time to see the expected results.

22

What You Should Know About Dental Amalgam

Nov
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by Kristenne Snelson

Amalgam is a substance frequently used to fill teeth gap and tooth that was destroyed by decay. Amalgam also is known as precious metal fillings. Recently, worries have been increased about the use of amalgam because it contains mercury. It is a variety of materials that has been used in treatments for more than centuries and is still commonly used today, albeit lesser.  Sometimes it is known as “silver amalgam,” and consists of a variety of material such as, mercury, tin, zinc oxide, etc.

Today it is used less often than in the past but because amalgam is cheaper than other dental products for teeth gap fillings and decay, plus it holds up better than more modern solutions, people still opt for an amalgam filling. Millions of individuals have amalgam fillings and some researchers are convinced that it cause Alzheimer’s. However, there is no conclusive evidence of such and none that we know about on a public scale.  Mercury has also been a brunt of studies with regards to autism, which is another story that I will not tackle about here.

Mercury is a natural metal but it is a deadly one when it builds up in the body excessively.  Everyone is exposed to mercury whether it is through food, the air, or the drinking water.  The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has considered it to be safe and currently does not regulate its use in dental practices. Just as long as the quantities are relevant to its use, it is considered safe.

In the past, mercury in amalgam fillings was thought to be inert, but that has since been disproved.  Unfortunately research on this matter is complicated and most studies conclude that the quantity of mercury in amalgam fillings is very low and people are more exposed to it in their day to day lives than the amalgam itself. However, you will commonly see dentists handling it with extreme caution. That is because they are constantly exposed to it and buildup after constant contact is deadly.

This year amalgam fillings for teeth gap is under scrutiny on an international level.  This month there are talks about having a worldwide ban on amalgam because not only is it thought to be dangerous to one’s health, but it is cannot really be disposed of properly when people die or when the fillings are removed.  No matter the circumstance, the fact that it releases gas is dangerous to people’s health.  It is not longer used in several countries such as Africa, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and more are starting to follow suit.  Germany has already spouted off some concerns and has admitted to banning it very soon.

The United Nations is being urged to ban the use of amalgam. However, if they fail or opt not to do that, then there really should be some sort of warning label or a full disclosure to the people regarding these fillings and its effect on the body system. The dental community naturally is against the ban of amalgam because of how successful and cheap it is.  It has a very low chance of cavity recurrence and a very low incidence of cusp fracture.  If you have amalgam and you are concerned, you can have your fillings removed and replaced with a better but expensive alternative.

21

Ever Been A Brace Face – Here’s A Reminder

Nov
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by Kristenne Snelson

Ugly braces are almost a thing of the past.  We still see metal mouths for teeth straightening but with today’s technology, braces are no longer a noticeable mine hole full of ore.  Metal braces are uncomfortable and really do have a flavor believe it or not.  They change the whole lip structure and also make you feel ugly.  Even though the end result is going to be a set of beautiful teeth, it always poses a blow to the self esteem.  Kissing is uncomfortable, you are always the brunt of jokes, and they affect your speech because of how the lips sit on them.  Even worse, people with braces tend to snore and drool in their sleep.  Unfortunately, these are what people have to go during the teeth straightening process.

Today there are clear braces which are not so noticeable.  They are also not as bulky as the ones we had as children.  The clear braces make it easier to eat and the lip does not have such a big ridge to sit on. The clear braces are not a new, but with each year that passes braces are making a less noticeable impact on the face and working faster than before.  Wearing braces for over two years is not as likely as it was 10 years ago. Now they even have braces that you wear only when you are asleep or just put in at your convenience.  Teeth straightening have taken on many forms and for instant result. Surgery or permanent teeth can just be easily installed over the existing ones.

If you have never had braces for teeth straightening, then you are lucky. The first day that you come home with them you might as well not go to school or work the next day because your whole face and mind will be ringing.  They have to be constantly adjusted and tightened which cause headaches and sensitivity to the teeth for days.  You cannot eat certain things like apples, chewing gum and certain candies are out of the question.  Heavy duty rubber bands are a constant force on the jaws to line up in a position that was not natural to begin with.  Your mother will remind you to brush your teeth 12 times per day and toothbrushes get shredded to bits on a regular basis.

Once the braces are removed you are constantly rubbing your tongue over your teeth which turn habitual.  You can always tell if a person had braces by observing this behavior, and it sticks with them for life unless they recognize and do something about it.  You have to get used to the feeling of exposed teeth on food again.  Cold and heated foods feel weird for the longest time.  You have to have your teeth cleaned and whitened because there are blatant marks where the braces were attached.  Your lips, cheeks, bridge of the nose, and overall facial structure appear different.  When you chew a piece of Hubba Bubba for the first time you will not be able to blow a bubble.  You have to learn how to whistle all over again and you feel like your words are coming out differently. Then you are assigned a retainer for a few more years.  And that is what it is like to have braces. You have to endure those months while under teeth straightening phase.

 

18

Get Those Gaps Fixed – They Are Parking Spots For Germs

Nov
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by Kristenne Snelson

Many people are plagued by gap in teeth.  Some are natural and others are due to decay or accidents.  If you have natural spaces between your teeth, it is a fairly simple fix. A tooth band could take care of this permanently.  It is quite possible that you would not have to do anything about it if it’s just a mere cosmetic issue.  Some gaps in teeth are caused by decay.  These gaps must be attended to as soon as possible.  Not only is it unsightly, it is a health issue as well.  Infections in the mouth can spread to the brain, lymphatic system, or even the heart.  This can lead to death. That is not a good thing to neither have nor happen to anyone.  The dentist can do many things to repair this type of damage.

The first order of business will be to eliminate any infections you may have.  The tricky part is determining if you have an infection.  It sounds easy, but the reality is many infections are caused by dental problems that do not present themselves until they have progressed to a somewhat serious state.  A dentist may prescribe antibiotics as well as removing any infected portions of your teeth.  They may even have to do a root canal or remove some of your teeth. This can create further gap in teeth which should be fixed as soon as the dentist advise you to.  A dentist can do things like put in fillings, caps, or dental bonding, whichever your case may be.  They may even decide that none of your teeth can be saved. In those situations they may suggest implants or dentures.

Both dentures and implants have benefits and drawbacks.  Implants are expensive and require oral surgery while dentures often need to be remade as a person’s gum line changes.  Sometimes gap in teeth are caused by an accident.  It can be as simple as getting a little tipsy and chipping a tooth on a bottle or falling face first into the toilet.  These should be attended to immediately as well. Once the enamel has been breached, the dentin is exposed and can make the teeth sensitive.  Again fillings, caps, and dental bonding can fix the broken teeth and eliminate the gaps in your teeth.  If they are not severe, they can be fixed by simply purchasing a tooth bands.  These bands are so effective that they work to close the gaps in just a few weeks.

Some damage to your choppers can be more serious such as that caused by automobile accidents.  Men that constantly stick toxic foreign objects in their mouths such as “dip” cause extensive damage to their teeth which starts from the bottom up.  Dipping makes the gaps start from the gums and the gaps are more like holes which cannot be simply fixed with a tooth band.  This type of mouth injury may require intensive oral reconstructive surgery.  If this happens to you, the least of your problems is a gap or two in your mouth, which then again, can be fixed by a dental bond to close that gap in teeth.

17

Study Says Regular Dental Visits Lowers Heart Risk By 25%

Nov
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by Kristenne Snelson

Having regular visits to a dental/oral hygienist is not only great for your teeth but to your overall health as well. Experts have been claiming for years that dental visits help lower the risk of heart disease as the status of one’s teeth purportedly affects the heart. Recently, studies have found out that people who have their teeth properly washed has lower chance of heart arrest by nearly 25%. Further, they are 13% less likely to have cardiac problems compared to people who rarely have dental care or treatment done.

Scientists have known for many years that oral conditions such as periodontitis and teeth gap increase the likelihood of heart illness. Cavities produce plaque which might develop into inflamed gum (periodontitis) and other oral disorders.  How come the teeth and the heart are associated with each other when it comes to diseases? It was said that bacteria enter the system via the gum are and it is thought to cause arteries to become infected that could set off cardiovascular accident. The bacteria work the same as build up fatty remains in arteries which might lead to atherosclerosis and eventually to heart diseases. It should be noted that there are many studies concluding that a terrible dental care/hygiene practices can affect not only the blood and heart but as well as a person’s skin and mental health.

In Taiwan, researchers have looked at the dental records of more than 100,000 people over a period of 7 year. Based on the frequency of visits they found that the occurrence of heart arrest leans more towards people who rarely visit a dentist or didn’t visit at least once per year. The majority of physicians have agreed at this association claiming that oral hygiene is linked to the risks of getting heart problems much like when one smokes or have a bad dietary lifestyle. Interesting to know that, it is a cycle of bad health habits that lead to heart disease. If your food choices are poor you get heart problems as well as poor oral state which also leads to heart problems!

Keeping your tooth clean and taking care of teeth gap is essential. However, when a dental professional is looking after your teeth the chance of preventing such diseases or disorders is high, since they will be able to detect teeth and gum problems that a person might not know about.  And what the research is suggesting is that when problems are discovered early on, heart risks and other health problems could be decreased.  Most people only go for dental care during teeth cleanings but it is strongly suggested to get full x-rays.  Even if the visit costs significantly more, it’s worth paying for if it means prevention of a more dangerous health risk.  .

It is very expensive to go to an oral hygienist so the bill alone might be enough to give you a heart attack all in itself.  Even if it is not affordable, it must be done in order to discover potential problems.  Taking care of your teeth  and getting them checked out once per year will always be cheaper than suffering from a heart attack, or even worse a fatal blood disease.

16

Fluoride and Dental Care, Citizens Need To Be More Concerned

Nov
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by Kristenne Snelson

Did you know that the U.S. administration authorities have advised to lessen fluoride in drinking water?   Studies show that it is the leading cause of tooth decay among young children.  Fluoride is added to the water supply in most places in U.S. because it said to prevent and even repair rotten teeth.  However, wellness and the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) said that people already get the substance fluoride in so many commercial solutions these days, such as tooth pastes, mouth rinses and other dental care products.  These all in abnormal or excessive amounts is said to do no good for dental health.  Communities voluntarily add fluoride to the drinking water and physicians and oral practitioners recommends adding it because it can help secure kids’ teeth that have not yet developed through the gum area. Unfortunately, it was found out that about two out of five teens suffer from teeth streaks or spots which are directly associated from having too much fluoride. In some intense conditions, tooth can even be roughened by the substance.

The EPA did a risk review research on whether or not some kids are getting too much fluoride. The research determined that some kids under the age of eight may be over-exposed to fluoride due to the increased substance consumption. Too much fluoride can cause dental fluorosis. Dental fluorosis is a health condition caused by a person receiving too much fluoride during tooth development and over 90 % of these conditions appear as white areas on the tooth. In very serious conditions it can even pit the teeth. The study also concludes that excessive usage of fluoride over a life time may increase the chance of bone tissue degeneration and bone breakage.  This is known as skeletal fluorosis, according to the CDC (Center for Disease Control). Studies of this nature are always being published by the CDC, whether they get attention or not. The CDC is not just going to come out and tell people not to buy their children Barney Toothpastes.  They only seek to encourage awareness. The physical dental health of the citizens is governed by the corporations that sponsor such agencies as the CDC and EPA.  Therefore, Barney toothpaste for children will remain to be the likely alternative for dental care.

Fluoridation of water and in products has been a controversial topic for the last ten years now.  With new studies coming out every day, fluoridation seems to be one of those topics that are not made public. It is one of those information that a person just happens to come upon.  If the CDC and EPA were to be totally honest, they would tell you that over 60 million people were inflicted by fluoride poison.  Some of them now suffer from chronic bone diseases and deformities.  You can avoid fluoridated water by drinking distilled water instead.  Also, some dental care products such as toothpastes do come un-fluoridated.  Mouth washes are not really necessary but the television commercials will have you believe differently.  Parents today were raised under the assumption that fluoride was good for them and were even given fluoridated supplements as children.  It is evident by doing some research that it can actually be poisonous. A miscalculated dose of fluoride can have your whole water supply overdosed with this nasty stuff.