Month: June 2018

A loose tooth is an obvious cause for concern but sometimes loose teeth will correct themselves. However, always consult a dentist if this happens.

The reasons why teeth become loose can include:

– Gum disease also called periodontitis can weaken gums and jaw bone.

– Increased estrogen and progesterone levels during pregnancy can affect bone and tissue in the mouth.

– The bone disease osteoporosis usually affects the wrists, hips and spine but can also damage the jawbone

Probably the most common reason for loose teeth is “impact from a blow to the face” which may occur during play, in an accident or while playing sports.

More details about loose teeth can be found at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322028.php

New research suggests analysis of zinc and copper levels in baby teeth could help predict the developmental disorder known as autism.

Key takeaways:

– As each new layer is formed on teeth they contain records of chemicals exposed to.

– Significant differences found in levels of zinc and copper in teeth when comparing children with autism and those without autism.

– Could lead to prenatal markers for an earlier diagnosis of autism from the records from children’s dentist.

“This study is the first to find a marker that can predict the risk for autism with 90 percent accuracy, the research team said, and may point to a possible new way of diagnosing autism.”

Read the full story here

https://consumer.healthday.com/cognitive-health-information-26/autism-news-51/baby-teeth-give-clues-to-autism-s-origins-detection-734271.html

For many common dental procedures the dentist will administer a local anaesthetic before surgery begins. This local anaesthetic will render the area around the surgery site (local area) numb and the patient will remain awake and free from pain throughout the operation.
The anaesthetic is administered in the following manner:

– The site is dried using cotton swabs or air
– A numbing gel is applied
– The local anaesthetic is slowly injected

After about five minutes the patient “should no longer feel pain” and the dentist proceeds to work on the teeth or gums. More detailed information on the use and effects of local anaesthetics can be found at https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321880.php.

Do you suspect that you or a family member might be suffering from a condition known as sleep apnea? This is a condition characterized by loud snoring.

A dentist can also identify three potential indicators of sleep apnea:

– The enamel of your teeth can become eroded from a lack of saliva.

– You may also grind your teeth when sleeping.

– Gum tissues could likewise be inflamed.

“Sleep apnea is a debilitating sleep disorder in which a person actually stops breathing at numerous points throughout the night.”

Learn more here:

https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/how-does-a-dentist-diagnose-sleep-apnea/

If your child suffers an injury to their teeth they need to see a dentist straight away.

Main points:

– Fast action is essential, insert a loose tooth back into the socket.

– A dentist will assess and repair the damage.

– A tooth or piece of tooth should be transported to the dentist in milk.

As childhood trauma to teeth can damage nerves and roots over time, it is important to let your dentist know of any incidents.

“When an adult tooth is knocked loose, a dentist will need to secure it quickly.”

Read the full article here:

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-to-do-if-your-child-chips-loosens-or-loses-a-tooth/