Sunday, May 24, 2015

Answering concerns regarding dental amalgam fillings

 


Dental amalgam has been documented to be one of the most commonly used dental materials for restoration of decayed and carious teeth. It has greater strength as compared to other filling materials and has the convenience of easy manipulation for the dental professional during the operative procedure in the patient’s mouth. Dental amalgam has provides adequate mixing and working time to the dental assistants as well. Millions of people around the globe have silver dental amalgam fillings in their mouth for the last many decades. People are satisfied with the longevity and function of the silver dental amalgam restorations.


Few concerns have been raised in the past regarding dental amalgam restorations and the material went through serious controversy and criticism. Nevertheless still many dentists use amalgam material and patients do not hesitate from getting amalgam fillings. The major concern people raise about dental amalgam is its mercury content. Mercury is a known poison which is considered more harmful than arsenic. Mercury fillings in the oral cavity can cause serious damage such as neurological, respiratory and cardiac problems. Mercury fumes in the environment of dental clinics can be hazardous.


Another major concern about mercury is its silver or blackish silver color which gives an unaesthetic appearance to your smile. people now prefer the newly developed tooth colored fillings in their oral cavity. Dental composites with good mechanical properties have largely replaced dental amalgam fillings in the recent era. In spite of all the above mentioned problems, dentists still prefer doing amalgam fillings in areas subjected to high mastication forces and consider it perfectly safe for the human body


Some metro Atlantans strongly believe that the mercury fillings most people got as children could be making them sick.


As many as 180 million Americans have more than a half billion teeth restored with fillings made with mercury.


“Mercury is extremely toxic,” McKenzie said. “It’s more poisonous than arsenic. And you’re putting it in patients’ mouths.


McKenzie said the mercury readings in her 20-year-old patient’s mouth were enough to shut down a school. That patient, Elizabeth Tlapapan, wanted to get rid of the brain fog and headaches that had plagued her for year.


The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) took five years to consider conflicting research on the issue. In January, the agency denied petitions to ban mercury or declare it a high-risk device. The American Dental Association (ADA) also has defended the fillings as having “established a record of safety and effectiveness.”


http://www.wsbtv.com/news/news/local/2-investigates-are-fillings-your-mouth-toxic/nmJXk/



Answering concerns regarding dental amalgam fillings

Wednesday, May 20, 2015

Frequently asked questions about tooth extraction

 


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Modern dental approach involves restoration of decayed and damaged teeth by all means. Preventive dentistry has been considered as the mainstay of dental management. Dental health professionals focus upon saving the decayed and carious teeth through the provision of dental restorations and root canal treatment procedures. Removal of teeth is only indicated when all other possible options are not possible. Dental extraction can be the treatment option in severely damaged teeth, broken down un-restorable cases, severe tooth rotations, teeth in line of radiotherapy or during chemotherapy of cancers and as part of an overall orthodontic treatment planning.


Dental extractions need thorough evaluation through complete history taking and comprehensive clinical and radiographic examination. Pre-medication is often required for medically compromised patients. Profound local anesthesia is essential for carrying out the whole procedure. Minimal discomfort and trauma remains the goal of simple as well as complex teeth extraction procedures. However, certain complications often occur irrespective of the care and treatment planning of the stepwise procedure. Common complications of teeth removal include dry socket, damage to adjacent teeth, bone fractures, loss of sensation or paresthesia and infection.


Also called exodontia or tooth-pulling, dental extraction is the process of completely removing a tooth from its socket. Tooth extractions are performed as a last resort when a tooth is too badly damaged to be saved by other types of dental treatment. A simple extraction refers to the removal of a tooth that is visible in the mouth. Surgical extractions are performed on teeth that are buried beneath gum tissues, such as impacted wisdom teeth. In some cases, teeth are removed to resolve crowding issues.


Before a dental extraction, your dentist will record your medical history carefully. You may receive antibiotics if you have a heart murmur, weak immune system, or infection is likely. You’ll also have the opportunity to discuss anesthesia and sedation options such as local anesthetic injection, nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and general anesthesia.


Dry socket occurs when no blood clot forms in the socket or a formed one becomes dislodged. The absence of the clot exposes sensitive nerves and bone to air. The condition is painful, but it is easily treated with a medicated dressing.


http://www.lakewoodranchdentalcare.com/blog/pulling-teeth-extraction-risk-recovery-and-cost/



Frequently asked questions about tooth extraction

Saturday, May 16, 2015

Root canal treatment can be a great success now !

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Root canal treatment is indicated for those damaged teeth in which the caries process has involved the vital living portion residing within the root canal system. The vital portion of the tooth containing the blood and nerve supply is known as dental pulp. Once the pulp becomes inflamed and diseased, it is not possible to save the teeth through simple filling procedures. Root canal treatment involves making a pathway to reach the diseased dental pulp tissue followed by its complete extirpation, thorough cleaning and shaping of the canal spaces and compact filling to make a hermetic seal to prevent leakage and ingress of infectious agents in future.


This is an extremely specialized procedure as the whole treatment is carried out in a small closed chamber of the tooth. An unimpeded and straight line path within the root canals is the key to perform state of the art root canal procedure. Modern science of endodontics has evolved various techniques and instruments to achieve the required outcomes. Specially designed files and armamentarium are used by highly skilled and trained clinicians for patient’s benefit. Cleaning and irrigation solutions help through the procedure by actively removing the dead and necrotic tissues. Intra canal medicaments are placed during visits to disinfect the space. The following article helps the patients to understand the science of endodontics and provides the clinicians various tips to perform a comprehensive root canal therapy procedure.



Following on from the preparation of an access cavity that allows good straight line access to all of the canals, the next stage is to clean and shape the canals.


It is important to scout the canal initially with a pre-curved #10K file to check canal patency and to ‘get a feel for the canal’. This physical feedback then allows the clinician to assess how to proceed with canal preparation. I always curve the tip of the file to ease the passage down the canal. Canals are almost always curved to some degree, and curved files will find their way more easily down curved canals. The endodontic glide path is a smooth tunnel from canal orifice to canal terminus, which allows the preparation instruments to follow the natural path of the canal. If the #10 file glides easily straight to length, very little work needs to be done to secure a glide path.


It must be remembered that canal shaping is not an end in itself. The shaping of the canal is carried out to allow delivery of the chemical cleaning agent to remove necrotic debris and kill bacteria. It is essential to constantly irrigate the canal from the start and throughout preparation using sodium hypochlorite in a side vented, 27 or 30 gauge endodontic syringe. This is especially important to remember when using file systems that shorten preparation time. Unless you constantly and copiously irrigate, you can prepare a beautifully tapered canal but without removing the bacteria and necrotic debris the treatment has a much lower chance of success.


http://www.dentistry.co.uk/2014/12/11/top-tips-endodontics-2/


 



Root canal treatment can be a great success now !

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Increased consumption of acidic drinks causes dental erosion

 


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A large number of patients visiting the dental health care centers present with dental erosion. Increased incidence of eroded and worn teeth can be the result of overwhelming consumption of acidic drinks and beverages in the modern world. Our social gatherings, meetings, family functions and meals are accompanied by cola drinks and lemon juices. Furthermore, weight conscious folks suck on lemons and continuously intake lemon water to reduce weight and combat obesity. These habits result in increased solubility and softness of outer hard enamel surface of our teeth.


Demineralization of enamel is extremely harmful as enamel does not exhibit the ability to repair or replace itself following trauma or damage. Prevention of enamel loss is the key to long life of your teeth. Enamel loss owing to dental erosion exposes the underlying dentin. Exposure of dentin causes sensitivity, discomfort and pain deteriorating the quality of life of the affected individuals. Dietary modification is necessary to prevent erosion of enamel. Use of milk instead of lemon juice has shown decreased occurrence of dental erosion. Increase intake of water after consumption of lemon products to neutralize the harmful effects. This article gives an insight into the etiology and prevention of dental erosion.


The enamel on the tooth becomes softer and loses mineral content when we eat or drink anything acidic. However, this acidity is cancelled out by saliva, which slowly restores the natural balance within the mouth. But if the mouth is not given enough time to repair itself – because these acid attacks are happening too often – the surface of the teeth is worn away.


Anything with a pH value (the measure of acidity) lower than 5.5 can damage the teeth. Diet and regular sodas, carbonated drinks, flavored fizzy waters, sports drinks, fruit and fruit juices are all known to be harmful to teeth if they are consumed too often.


The study finds that a substantial proportion of adults show some evidence of dental erosion, with the most severe cases being among people who drink sugary soft drinks and fruit juices.


“Water and milk are the best choices by far, not only for the good of our oral health but our overall health too,” says Dr. Carter. “Remember, it is how often we have sugary foods and drinks that causes the problem so it is important that we try and reduce the frequency of consumption.”


“Dental erosion does not always need to be treated. With regular check-ups and advice your dental team can prevent the problem getting any worse and the erosion going any further. The more severe cases of tooth wear can often result in invasive and costly treatment so it is important that we keep to a good oral hygiene routine to make sure these future problems do not arise.”


http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/293727.php



Increased consumption of acidic drinks causes dental erosion

Increased consumption of acidic drinks causes dental erosion

 


images (18)


A large number of patients visiting the dental health care centers present with dental erosion. Increased incidence of eroded and worn teeth can be the result of overwhelming consumption of acidic drinks and beverages in the modern world. Our social gatherings, meetings, family functions and meals are accompanied by cola drinks and lemon juices. Furthermore, weight conscious folks suck on lemons and continuously intake lemon water to reduce weight and combat obesity. These habits result in increased solubility and softness of outer hard enamel surface of our teeth.


Demineralization of enamel is extremely harmful as enamel does not exhibit the ability to repair or replace itself following trauma or damage. Prevention of enamel loss is the key to long life of your teeth. Enamel loss owing to dental erosion exposes the underlying dentin. Exposure of dentin causes sensitivity, discomfort and pain deteriorating the quality of life of the affected individuals. Dietary modification is necessary to prevent erosion of enamel. Use of milk instead of lemon juice has shown decreased occurrence of dental erosion. Increase intake of water after consumption of lemon products to neutralize the harmful effects. This article gives an insight into the etiology and prevention of dental erosion.


The enamel on the tooth becomes softer and loses mineral content when we eat or drink anything acidic. However, this acidity is cancelled out by saliva, which slowly restores the natural balance within the mouth. But if the mouth is not given enough time to repair itself – because these acid attacks are happening too often – the surface of the teeth is worn away.


Anything with a pH value (the measure of acidity) lower than 5.5 can damage the teeth. Diet and regular sodas, carbonated drinks, flavored fizzy waters, sports drinks, fruit and fruit juices are all known to be harmful to teeth if they are consumed too often.


The study finds that a substantial proportion of adults show some evidence of dental erosion, with the most severe cases being among people who drink sugary soft drinks and fruit juices.


“Water and milk are the best choices by far, not only for the good of our oral health but our overall health too,” says Dr. Carter. “Remember, it is how often we have sugary foods and drinks that causes the problem so it is important that we try and reduce the frequency of consumption.”


“Dental erosion does not always need to be treated. With regular check-ups and advice your dental team can prevent the problem getting any worse and the erosion going any further. The more severe cases of tooth wear can often result in invasive and costly treatment so it is important that we keep to a good oral hygiene routine to make sure these future problems do not arise.”


http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/293727.php



Increased consumption of acidic drinks causes dental erosion

Saturday, May 9, 2015

Betel nut chewing is a major risk factor for oral cancer (VIDEO)

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Oral cancer is among the debilitating conditions worsening the quality of an individual’s life. Oral cancer metastasizes to several organs in the human body and is associated with high mortality rate. Cigarette and pipe smoking, alcohol consumption, and betel nut chewing are the major risk factors for the development of oral squamous cell carcinoma. Betel nut is consumed wrapped in betel leaves and produces histological changes in the oral soft tissues. Betel nut chewing is also a major cause of oral tissue scarring and oral sub mucous fibrosis.


In addition to the development of cancer of the mouth, betel nut chewing causes exacerbation of asthma and respiratory disorders, hypertension and cardiac manifestations. It has been associated with higher blood sugar levels leading to occurrence of type II diabetes mellitus. The following video describes the role of betel nut chewing in the development of mouth cancer.  


Do you know that consumption of betel nuts can cause oral cancer? Perhaps not! But doctors say it does and the cases of oral cancers are rising day by day. The deadly habit of taking betel nuts with betel leaves or chewing them raw is followed overBeware, chewers: Betel nut may cause cancer (VIDEO)


thumbnail courtesy of thedailystar.net



Betel nut chewing is a major risk factor for oral cancer (VIDEO)

Thursday, May 7, 2015

Lead fillings, Chlorine and Tang

Why do astronauts get all the good words, like space shuttle and EVA (extra-vehicular activity or spacewalk) and Tang? Did I say Tang? Yes indeed. And I got stuck with words like gums and molars and amalgam.dental-amalgam-capsules


I mention Tang because amalgam filling material was first used in the T’ang dynasty in China around the 700’s a.d. and first introduced to the U.S. in 1833. Some people still refer to it as “lead fillings” because of the color it turns when it corrodes. Amalgam is made of 50% mercury and a 50% powder mix comprised of silver, tin and copper. All of those metals are necessary to make amalgam do what it does, turning from a gel when first mixed to a hard alloy after several hours.


Table salt also known as sodium chloride is required by the human body. But if we were to break sodium chloride down into its 2 components the metal sodium could burn holes through us just by touching it and the chlorine gas would kill us if we breathe it. In like manner it is the mercury in the amalgam filling which has always caused our health concerns. The American Dental Association has stated that mercury is of no health concern when it is combined with the other metals in a filling. What they fail to state is that not all the mercury in a filling combines completely with the other metals. There are always small wells of pure mercury spread throughout the hardened filling. Is there enough elemental mercury there to cause health problems? Now there is the million dollar question.


White composite fillings are successful because of the bonding process to make them physically attach to the tooth structure. Amalgams, on the other hand, are held in the cavity preparation by physical undercuts in the tooth. On a microscopic level the space that remains between the hardened amalgam and the prepared cavity is wide enough for the bacteria that causes tooth decay to walk side by side hand in hand (assuming bacteria have hands). The only reason cavities don’t occur immediately is that the black corrosion product of the tin/mercury alloy (called gamma 2) is anti-cariogenic – it inhibits tooth decay. The bad side effect of the gamma 2 is that it also contributes to a faster breakdown of the amalgam. So if you have old black corroded amalgams, be happy and sad at the same time. Because your teeth with those old fillings are more protected than the ones with the shiny silver. Although for not as long.



Lead fillings, Chlorine and Tang

Tuesday, May 5, 2015

Common dental myths

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Myths and false concepts about various things become traditional in societies especially when old people teach their siblings about these ideas. Fallacies regarding food stuff are widespread and educated people also believe in them. Likewise, dental myths exist among common folks. Some people have concrete belief that a hard tooth brush is the only solution to maintain white and bright teeth. They will never use a medium consistency or soft consistency brush. People often believe they should always use a whitening tooth paste.


Some folks always use an aspirin tablet in conjunction with tooth brushing and find it beneficial. They advise others to do this. Ice chewing can be harmful but not in all cases. However, some believers find it always damaging to teeth. an important dental myth regarding restoration of teeth is that once you get a tooth filling, you will need to replace it regularly. These people preach others to avoid getting a tooth filling. The following article focuses upon a discussion regarding common dental myths and stories.


Believing these myths about dental hygiene could be harmful for your teeth.


“We see a lot of people that you know bite down on things they shouldn’t,” Dr. Lieberman said. “We see people who really do open up beer bottles with their teeth.”


 


Dentist Larry Lieberman says most of us will eventually have a dental problem.


“Periodontal disease affects over 85% of the population. That’s a really big deal,” he said


However, dentists are seeing an increase in cavities in older adults due to medications that dry out the mouth. They reduce saliva, which protects the teeth.


One way to avoid being part of that statistic: don’t believe teeth myths.


http://www.king5.com/story/news/health/2015/04/23/dental-myths/26137079/


 


 



Common dental myths

Common dental myths

image_thumb


Myths and false concepts about various things become traditional in societies especially when old people teach their siblings about these ideas. Fallacies regarding food stuff are widespread and educated people also believe in them. Likewise, dental myths exist among common folks. Some people have concrete belief that a hard tooth brush is the only solution to maintain white and bright teeth. They will never use a medium consistency or soft consistency brush. People often believe they should always use a whitening tooth paste.


Some folks always use an aspirin tablet in conjunction with tooth brushing and find it beneficial. They advise others to do this. Ice chewing can be harmful but not in all cases. However, some believers find it always damaging to teeth. an important dental myth regarding restoration of teeth is that once you get a tooth filling, you will need to replace it regularly. These people preach others to avoid getting a tooth filling. The following article focuses upon a discussion regarding common dental myths and stories.



Let friends in your social network know what you are reading about


Believing these myths about dental hygiene could be harmful for your teeth.


A link has been sent to your friend’s email address.


A link has been posted to your Facebook feed.


To find out more about Facebook commenting please read the Conversation Guidelines and FAQs


Jean Enersen reports.


Dentist Larry Lieberman says most of us will eventually have a dental problem.


“Periodontal disease affects over 85% of the population. That’s a really big deal,” he said


One way to avoid being part of that statistic: don’t believe teeth myths.


http://www.king5.com/story/news/health/2015/04/23/dental-myths/26137079/



Common dental myths

Common dental myths

image_thumb


Let friends in your social network know what you are reading about


Believing these myths about dental hygiene could be harmful for your teeth.


A link has been sent to your friend’s email address.


A link has been posted to your Facebook feed.


To find out more about Facebook commenting please read the Conversation Guidelines and FAQs


Jean Enersen reports.


Dentist Larry Lieberman says most of us will eventually have a dental problem.


“Periodontal disease affects over 85% of the population. That’s a really big deal,” he said


One way to avoid being part of that statistic: don’t believe teeth myths.



Common dental myths