What is a cavity and how can it be prevented?
A cavity is a hole in the tooth that is caused by decay. Decay occurs when plaque, the sticky substance that forms on teeth, combines with the sugars and/or starches of the food we eat. This combination produces acids that attack tooth enamel. The best way to prevent tooth decay is brushing three times a day, flossing daily and going to your regular dental checkups. Eating healthy foods and avoiding snacks and drinks that are high in sugar are also ways to prevent decay.
What is a “Hollywood Smile”?
The term “Hollywood Smile” is being used to refer to a bright smile with white and perfectly aligned teeth, thanks to the Porcelain Veneers which have become an incredibly popular and easy way to correct and improve any smile. Veneers are thin porcelains shells that are bonded to the surface of the tooth. They have an instant effect on the look of your smile. Veneers can be used to cover teeth that are crooked, damaged, discolored or crowded. They can also be used to fill big gaps between teeth. Any imperfection can be corrected.
The ability of porcelain veneers to make any smile perfect is the main reason that veneers have become the mainstay behind almost every Hollywood smile. Generally, most people want instant results and that’s where porcelain veneers come in. With just a few sessions at the dentist, a Hollywood style smile could be yours.
How do I get rid of bad breath?
It depends on what is causing it. Often, bad breath results from less-than-optimal oral health, and sometimes people are not aware that they are not performing oral hygiene as effectively as they could be. A dental hygienist or dentist will be able to evaluate your oral health procedures and make recommendations for improvement; also, these professionals will be able to recognize any associated problems that might be contributing to an unpleasant mouth odor. In addition to evaluating and suggesting alterations to your brushing, flossing, and tongue de-plaquing regimen, your dental hygienist may recommend products such as a mouth rinse that contains zinc. If it turns out that the problem isn't in the mouth, a physician appointment is advisable. Sinus problems, stomach problems, certain foods and medications, and other factors can contribute to bad breath.
Do I have to floss every day? Is it really that important?
Yes! Besides cleaning your mouth, flossing daily lengthens your teeth’s life by eliminating the bacteria around them. If you do not floss, food particles will get stuck in the spaces between your teeth (where it’s hard to reach with a toothbrush). Germs will multiply and plaque will build up inside your mouth. For your teeth, the infection process can happen in a very short period! Stay on top of your overall health by flossing regularly.
What causes tooth loss?
The most common causes of tooth loss are dental caries, also known as tooth decay, and periodontal disease, which affects the gums and bone structure that support the teeth. Dental caries is the major cause of tooth loss in children, and periodontal disease is the major cause of tooth loss in adults; however, it too can afflict youngsters.
What can be done for missing teeth?
Bridges are designed to replace missing teeth. Not only do they fill the unpleasant spaces left by lost teeth, but they also help support the teeth adjacent to, and directly opposite, the missing teeth. Often a dentist will recommend an implant to fill in the space as well.
What causes dulling and discoloration of teeth?
There are several causes of tooth discoloration, including:
• Foods/drinks: Coffee, tea, colas, wines, and certain fruits and vegetables (for example, apples and potatoes) can stain your teeth.
• Tobacco use: Smoking or chewing tobacco can stain teeth.
• Poor dental hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing to remove plaque and stain-producing substances like coffee and tobacco can cause tooth discoloration.
• Advancing age: As you age, the outer layer of enamel on your teeth gets worn away revealing the natural yellow color of dentin.
• Genetics: Some people have naturally brighter or thicker enamel than others.
What is the best way to get my teeth whiter?
Most people have teeth that are naturally darker than "pure" white. If you want them whiter, the best thing you can do is talk to your professional oral health care provider about your options. Different people respond differently to different procedures used to whiten teeth, and it will take an in-person consultation with a professional to determine what is best for you. Sometimes all it takes is abstinence from behaviors that stain teeth, such as drinking coffee or tea, or smoking tobacco. Some people respond well to the use of whitening toothpastes while some do not. Other options available include bleaching, at home or in the office, composite ceramics, veneers and Lumineers.
Why is oral hygiene so important during pregnancy?
Pregnancy is a very exciting and busy time. There are so many changes going on in your body, and your mouth is no exception. Good oral hygiene is extremely important during pregnancy because the increase of hormone levels during pregnancy can cause dental problems to be intensified.
One of the most common dental problems associated with pregnancy is a condition known as pregnancy gingivitis, which usually occurs during the first trimester. Symptoms of pregnancy gingivitis are usually bleeding, swollen, red and tender gums.
Good oral health during pregnancy could also be important to your fetus. Some researchers have suggested that the serious stage of gum disease, periodontitis, could cause premature birth and low birth weight.
The tips listed here can help you maintain good oral health throughout your pregnancy.
• Visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. This is the best way to make sure that you are maintaining good oral hygiene.
• Brush your teeth properly at least twice a day to remove plaque.
• Floss your teeth daily. Flossing will remove food debris from between the teeth, places that a toothbrush can't reach.
• Use an antimicrobial mouth rinse. Antimicrobial mouth rinses can help prevent gingivitis.
• Brush or scrape your tongue daily to help remove bacteria.
• Eat nutritious meals and healthy snacks.
• Now that you know what to do to protect your oral health, sit back, relax and enjoy this beautiful time in your life!
When do children get their permanent teeth?
UPPER and LOWER ERUPTS BY
Central incisor 7th Yr
Lateral incisor 8th Yr
Canine (Cuspid) 11-12th Yr
First premolar (Bicuspid) 9th Yr
Second premolar (Bicuspid) 10th Yr
First molar 6th Yr
Second molar 12-13th Yr
Third molar 17-25th Yr
