Month: November 2020

Losing one or more teeth is a worrying prospect, but there are things you can do to reduce the likelihood of this happening and to enjoy better oral health.

Key takeaways:

• Don’t skip appointments with your dentist, even if you don’t have any obvious problems. Regular appointments help detect problems in their early stages. Regular cleanings help keep teeth and gums problem-free.
• Quit smoking, as this habit increase the risk of developing infection and gum disease, which can lead to tooth loos.
• Take oral hygiene seriously by brushing and flossing daily.

Missing teeth can be replaced, but prevention is always better than cure.

Read the full story here: https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/what-factors-might-contribute-to-tooth-loss/ 

Laughing gas, more properly known as nitrous oxide, is often a subject of humour — but laughing gas has a very serious application in dentistry.

Nitrous oxide is commonly used as a sedative to relax patients during minor procedures involving the teeth and gums. 

The benefits of laughing gas:

• Relaxes patients without rendering them unconscious

• Is ideal for nervous patients and children

• Is considered safe and effective

Although reactions from laughing gas are rare, they can happen if the dentist accidentally administers too big a dose but such incidents are extremely unlikely. 

Find out more about laughing gas at https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/spotlight-on-laughing-gas-everything-you-want-to-know-about-this-form-of-sedation-dentistry/

Crooked or misaligned teeth are quite common, but for some people it may impact on their dental health. Your dentist can advise on the treatment options available to correct alignment issues.

Key takeaways:

• Crooked teeth are harder to clean thoroughly, leading to a buildup of bacteria which increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
• Having crooked teeth can result in a misaligned bite, placing you at increased risk of pain and discomfort from temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).
• A misaligned bite can make chewing difficult and uncomfortable.

If you have crooked teeth, talk to your dentist about orthodontic options (braces) that can give you straight teeth quickly — and that are often barely noticeable.

Read the full story here

https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/the-long-term-health-risks-of-crooked-teeth/

Metal braces are great for straightening teeth but can make brushing and flossing difficult. 

Top tips:

– Use an electric toothbrush because the smaller rotating head is very effective at removing plaque.

– Talk to your dentist about using interdental cleaners or flossers to help clean under the metal wires.

– Consider using mouthwash too.

If you are struggling to keep your teeth clean, talk to your dentist who will be able to provide more tips.

“If you do choose to stick with a manual toothbrush, keep in mind that your toothbrush bristles may wear out faster than normal.”

Read more:

https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/how-to-fight-plaque-while-wearing-braces/