Teeth Cleaning

How Do Dentists Clean Your Teeth - Scaling and Polishing or Teeth Cleaning Process

Do you want to get your teeth cleaned but you are scared or curious about the procedure then sit back and relax I'll explain every detail to you

Teeth cleaning is a layman term which is used by common people but when you enter a dental clinic your dentist or hygienist will use a term called as scaling and polishing or oral prophylaxis for the same process, Don't panic they will only clean your teeth and nothing else.

Now let's discuss the procedure

Teeth cleaning can be done by an authorized dental hygienist or a dentist in a proper controlled and sterile environment of the dental clinic.

When you reach dental clinic, First you will be questioned about your health history and other dental and medical health problems.

If they see no health related problem which is related to the outcome of the procedure then they will make you lie down on a dental chair with semi supine or supine position.

There are two type of methods to clean your tooth

1. Manual instruments- These are hand held stainless steel instruments with minute heads for cleaning various surfaces and interdental reas of tooth. These instruments are called as Perodontal scalers.

2. Ultrasonic scaler- this is an advanced way of cleaning teeth, this equipment have interchangeable tips which vibrates and causes dislodgment of any debris on the teeth.

What ever is the method objective of teeth cleaning is same:

Removal or plaque, calculus and food debris from the tooth surface and interdental area.

1.Hand instruments-

If your dentist is using hand held periodontal scalers then it will take more time, He will adapt the instrument on the tooth surface and then give a stroke to remove the plaque or calculus, He will repeat this process on all the teeth and on all the surface of the tooth. even between the interdental area of teeth. He may irrigate the area with chlorhexidine mouth wash. This process is usually painless if done properly. 

After Scaling is completed he will use a prophylaxis paste to clean and polish the tooth surface, this paste is loaded on a rubber cup which is mounted on a handpiece like device. The polishing cup will rotate and polish the tooth surface.

2.Ultrasonic scalers-

If your dentist is using ultrasonic scalers then you may find the process done faster, Ultrasonic scaler is a kind of machine which produces vibrations at a controlled frequency, This vibrations are transmitted to the tip of the instrument. when this tip comes in contact with the tooth surface it removes any kind of calculus or palque from the tooth surface.

    

This machine is much easy and fast to handle. If done correctly it will produce no pain and no side effects or harm.

Polishing is done after teeth cleaning in same manner as above mentioned.

If you have lots of debris and if your oral hygiene condition is bad then dentist may take multiple visits for the teeth cleaning.

Removable Dentures

What Are Dentures Made Of

You want to know what dentures are made up of this means- You may be wearing a denture or you just have some curiosity to know. What ever may be the cause I'll tell you the answer in very detailed manner.

Dentures ( I'm here talking about the Removable Dentures what old people wear not fixed one) can be defined as removable dental prosthesis with artificial teeth attached to the denture base that replaces the masticatory surface and associated structure of a mxillary or mandibular dental arch.

Earlier when advanced materials were not discovered dentures were made of  vulcanite, vinyl plastics, Type IV Gold. Chrom Cobalt alloy and Porcelain. But now advance materials are discovered which are more life like and more biocompatible. 

If I tell you in one line- Dentures are made of Arcylic Resins 
Denture base resins come in two forms which are mixed at the time of denture fabrication of denture- Powder form and Liquid form

Powder form contents-

• Main component - Polymethylmethacrylate.

• Initiator- Benzoyl peroxide or disobutylazonitrate.

• Pigments- Mercuric sulfide, cadmium sulfide.

• Opacifiers- Zinch or Titanium oxide.

• Dyed organic fiber- Nylon or acrylic fibers to produce effect of minute blood capillaries.

• Plasticizer- Dibutyl pthalate.

• Inorganic particles- Glass fibers or zirconium silicate.

Liquid Form Contents-

• Main component- Methylmethacrylate

• Inhibitor- Hydroquinone

• Accelerator- N,`N-dimethylparatoulidine

• Cross linking agent- Glycol diethacrylate 

Denture teeth are also made up of acrylic resin but they are company made and prefabricated. Lab technician just applies the dentist recommended teeth according to the case.

 

Gum Health

Gum Infection Symptoms that indicates- You need a Treatment

 Gum infection is one of the commonest problem in humans and in 90% of the cases it occurs due to bad oral hygiene, but there are many factors like medical conditions, food habit, medicine we use; which are also responsible for it.

In medical terminology Gum infection is called as Gingivitis or Periodontitis depending upon the severity of condition.

So today we will learn to recognize gum infection symptoms because 40% of people can’t recognize they have gum infections until it gets very bad.

You may like to have a mirror with you while reading this, to check the symptoms one by one.

11 Gum Infection Symptoms you must know about

1.Bleeding gums-

This is the first symptom of gum infection, people first see this kind of symptom while
brushing their teeth, person suffering from gum infection will see blood in tooth paste foam when they spit in sink or while eating hard food. Bleeding occurs from the junction of the gum and tooth, even a slight irritation of gums will induce bleeding.

2.Redness of gums-

Normal color of gum is pink but in gum infection cases redness of gums can be seen, at first the redness is around the margins of the gum but it may become diffused later on, in acute conditions you will see marked redness combined with gum bleeding. This redness may be seen around single tooth or it can be seen generalized in all the gums. This redness is sign of inflammation and goes after treatment.

3.Bluish or purple gums-

In some cases when the infection becomes chronic; the color of gum changes from red to bluish purple this is sign of venous engorgement of the blood vessels in gums whenever you seen such kind of coloration of gums it’s time to go to your doctor.


4.Bad breath- This is second most common sign of gum infection after bleeding gums, those people who
have bad breath are prone to have gum infection, bad breath signifies high level of bacterial grown in your mouth and hence a compromised oral health. Best way to test bad breath- lick your wrist and wait for some time then smell that area f your experience fowl smell then you are suffering from halitosis.

Want to know How to get rid of bad breath or Halitosis

5.Swollen and spongy gums-

This is the point when patients really start to notice the problem. Gums become swollen and puffy, its surface loses stippling and becomes smooth, when swelling enlarges then ulceration may develop over them, ulceration are due to mechanical trauma while eating. Swelling may be over one tooth or it may be generalized.



6.Recession of gums-

This symptom indicates that gum infection is in the advanced state of its development, in this symptom the gums leave it natural position and move down toward bone this may expose the roots and may form gaps between the teeth. This occurs due to loss of underlying supporting bone. Some time it may be associated with single tooth and some time it is generalized.


7.Bad taste in mouth- advanced gum infection causes pocket formation at the junction of the tooth and gum, these deep pockets harbor bacteria and debris these pockets may result in exudates formation and these exudates result in bad taste.

8.Sensitivity- This gum infection symptom indicates serious problem. Gum recession will results in exposure of root surface which intern results in sensitivity, tooth will look longer then it usually are and patient may feel sharp pain like feeling while having cold stuffs.

9.Tenderness & pain- In advanced stage of gum infection pain can be experienced by the patient this pain can be from gums and some time the tooth associated with the infected gums will become symptomatic and it will become painful.

10.Ulcerated gums- If ulcers can be seen on the gums that means acute form of gum infection. If gum ulceration is generalized then it indicates some serious oral disease, get it checked.

11.Hyper salivation or pasty saliva- As your gum infection get established for long time it may result in increased salivary flow this is a usual sign of infection in mouth, in chronic cases saliva becomes pasty.

Conclusion: A Research by National Institute of Dental Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland says that there is lack of awareness of Gum infection symptoms in patients and there is lack of interest in assessment of the problem by the general dentist. This problem can only be prevented and cured with the help of individual and professional effort.

 

Dental Braces

Braces are indeed the solution for you, your orthodontist will prescribe an appliance specific for your needs. The braces may consist of bands, wires, and other fixed or removable corrective appliances.

Generally, there are three types of braces:

• Brackets: Made of stainless steel or clear or tooth-colored ceramic or plastic, brackets are bonded to the front of each tooth. Ceramic or plastic brackets are often selected for cosmetic reasons. Plastic brackets, however, may become stained and discolored by the end of treatment. Another disadvantage of ceramic or plastic brackets is that they cause more friction between the wire and brackets, which can increase treatment time.
• Lingual-type brackets: These are brackets that attach to the back of teeth, hiding the bracket from view.
• Traditional bands: These are the generally outdated "full metal-mouth" look, which consists of the use of metal brackets soldered to metal bands that wrap around each tooth.

Newer "mini-braces," which are much smaller than traditional braces, may be an option for some. Your orthodontist will discuss the various types of available braces with you and determine which might be the best option for you.

How Do Braces Work?

In their entirety, braces work by applying continuous pressure over a period of time to slowly move teeth in a specific direction. As the teeth move, the bony tooth socket reabsorbs and changes shape as pressure is applied.
Braces are made up of the following components:

• Brackets are the small squares that are bonded directly to each tooth with a special dental bonding agent or are attached to orthodontic bands. Brackets act like handles, holding the arch wires that move the teeth.
• Orthodontic bands are stainless steel, clear or tooth-colored materials that are cemented with dental bonding agents or cement to teeth. They wrap around each tooth to provide an anchor for the brackets. The clear or tooth-colored bands are more cosmetically appealing options but are more expensive than stainless steel. They are not used in all patients. Some people have only brackets and no bands.
• Spacers are separators that fit between teeth to create a small space prior to placement of orthodontic bands.
• Arch wires attach to the brackets and act as tracks to guide the movement of the teeth. Arch wires can be made of metal or be clear or tooth-colored.
• Ties are small rubber rings or fine wires that fasten the arch wire to the brackets. They can be clear, metal or colored.
• A buccal tube on the band of the last molar holds the end of the arch wire securely in place.
• Tiny elastic rubber bands, called ligatures, hold the arch wires to the brackets.
• Springs may be placed on the arch wires between brackets to push, pull, open or close the spaces between teeth.
• Two bands on the upper teeth may have headgear tubes on them to hold the facebow of the headgear in place. (A headgear is another tool used by orthodontists to aid in correcting irregularities of the teeth; see below)
• Elastics or rubber bands attach to hooks on brackets and are worn between the upper and lower teeth in various ways. They apply pressure to move the upper teeth against the lower teeth to achieve a perfect fit of individual teeth.
• Facebow headgear is the wire gadget that is used to move the upper molars back in the mouth to correct bite discrepancies and also to create room for crowded anterior teeth. The facebow consists of an inner metal part shaped like a horseshoe that goes in the mouth, attaching to buccal tubes, and an outer part that goes around the outside of the face and is connected to a headgear strap.

Oral Surgery

What is Marsupialisation Or Partsch Operation - Indication, Advantages, Procedure 

Marsupialisation or Partsch operation is a conservative surgical procedure for management of cysts in oral cavity and other parts of the body.

A cyst is a sac like pathology which can develop in any part of the human body. When a cyst grows to such a big extent that complete removal of the cyst will result in permanent structural and functional loss then marsupialisation is advised.

Procedure in layman terms- The roof of the cyst is removed and the cavity is evacuated the cyst lining may be left intact at that movement but cystic contents are removed and the cyst is left open. Edges or the border of the cyst are stitched with the normal outer epithelium.

This technique relives the intra cystic pressure and reduces size of the cyst and promotes healing. This procedure also reduces the chances of the reccurrency.

After some time when there is enough healing and cyst have been reduced in size then cystic lining can be removed or any kind of cyst removal surgery can be performed, following which the cyst is closed.    

Partsch was the person who invented this technique hence the name Partsch operation is applied.

Indications for Marsupialisation-

When cyst cavity is so big that complete removal of cyst will result in excessive structure loss.

• When cyst is in proximity with vital structure which will get harm if complete cyst is removed.
• When cyst have tendency of high recurrence.

• Those cyst which have character of high volume intra cystic liquid production.

• Compromised cases which does not advocate for complete removal of the cyst.

• Usually used in bartholin cyst. and large dentigerous cyst.

Advantages-

• Conservative operation so it will conserve soft tissue and bone structure.

• Success rate is high.

• chances to damage to adjacent vital structures is reduced.

 

Tooth Fillings

What Are Tooth Fillings Made Of - Things About Tooth Filling You Never Knew 

 Tooth fillings have been an ancient type of dental treatment, although it have been developed and procedure have been made more advanced in the mean time.

In layman term it is called as tooth filling but in dental terminology it is called as dental restoration; It tells us about the objective of the procedure, The objective is to remove the decay and then restore the functional as well as aesthetic requirements of the tooth.

Let's see what type of materials are been used for the filling of the tooth. I'm listing the filing materials in chronological manner from oldest to newest.

Direct filling Gold- gold is the only type of restoration which i used in pure metal form. It is used
to fill small cavities and it is claimed to be most long standing and permanent type of filling. 24 carats pure gold is used for filling the cavities.

It comes in different forms like Gold pallets, Gold foils, Powdered gold. It is outdated due to it's high cost and technique sensitiveness .

Dental Amalgam- (Silver filling)- Dental amalgam alloy is a type of filling material in which two or
more metals are mixed together to form a solid stable restoration, Mercury in liquid form and Silver powder in solid form is is used. Silver powder with other alloys(Tin, Copper, Zinc) is collectively called a silver amalgam alloy.

Dentist will remove the decay and prepare a desired  shape of the cavity to accept the restoration. Then mercury and silver amalgam powder are mixed with the procedure called as Trituration. A soft mass is developed and condensed in the cavity.

Dental Cements-  Lots of dental cements have been developed by the time and they have been used of various purposes in dentistry like Temporary filling, Permanent filling and for fixing the crowns and bridge. I am listing some selected dental cements although n numbers of cements are available.

Zinc Oxide Eugenol- Used for Temporary restoration, Used as thermal insulating base under
metal  restoration, Pulp capping, Cavity Liner, Root canal sealant, surgical dressing.


Zinc Phosphate Cement-Luting(sticking) agent for restorations, Intermediate restoration, Insulating base bellow metal restoration.   [picture not given]

Glass ionomer- one of the most popular dental cements in present world. White in color and
comes in different shades, contains fluoride and have excellent tooth bonding capacity, high strength and wear resistance have made it a good posterior and well as anterior restoration material.




Composite Resin- This is one of the cutting edge technology in which more then one kind of materials are mixed together to make a composite which is superior in quality then both of the parent materials.

Dental composite is used for cosmetic fillings, bonding and restoration of chipped tooth, and a core in post and core build up.

The list of dental filling materials is endless so I have mentioned some popular materials.

What is Pericoronitis

Pericoronitis is an acute infection which causes swelling or inflammation of gums and surrounding soft tissues of a partially erupted tooth. Pericoronitis usually occurs in lower wisdom tooth area. Wisdom teeth usually erupt in late teens. When there is not enough space for wisdom tooth to erupt, then tooth becomes impacted.  Wisdom tooth may be partially or completely impacted. A flap of gum tissue is created in partially erupted wisdom tooth where food impaction can occur. Soft tissue flap covering partially impacted tooth is known as operculum. Entrapment of food below operculum or injury by the opposing tooth on operculum can lead to Pericoronitis.  When the flap becomes inflamed and swollen, then it is known as Pericoronitis. Pericoronitis can also occur in relation to completely impacted wisdom tooth or partially impacted wisdom tooth.

Signs and Symptoms of Pericoronitis

• Gum tissues in relation to partially impacted tooth become swollen and inflamed.
• Gum tissue will appear red and pus will discharge from gums in relation to tooth. Pus can result in increase in bulk of flap and can interfere with jaw closure.
• Lesion will be extremely tender and painful and pain may also radiate to ear, throat and floor of mouth.
• Bad taste and bad odor is present from oral cavity.   
• Patient will have difficulty in swallowing and will have difficulty in closing the jaws. Pain will aggravate on biting from opposite tooth as it will cause trauma to the flap present around the affected tooth.  
• Swelling of cheeks may also occur in Pericoronitis.
• Swelling of lymph nodes (Submandibular lymph nodes) and jaw muscles spasm may also occur in Pericoronitis.
• Fever, increase in number of white blood cells (Leucocytes) and malaise indicate sever infection.

Diagnosis of Pericoronitis

Pain, swelling and redness in relation to partially erupted tooth will diagnose Pericoronitis.

Treatment of Pericoronitis

Treatment of Pericoronitis depends on many factors. Treatment depends on:

• Severity of swelling which is present
• Whether  the involved tooth is to be extracted  or not and
• Whether systemic complications are present or not.

Debridement of area is done by cleaning the area. Flap is raised and pus and debris is removed by rinsing with water after giving topical anesthesia to the patient. If severe acute symptoms are present, then antibiotics are also prescribed to the patient to reduce the infection.

Patient is instructed to do hourly rinses with solution of tea spoonful of salt in glass of warm water. Patient should take more of fluids and should maintain good oral hygiene to avoid any food accumulates in wisdom tooth area. Patient should brush and floss properly to avoid any food deposits. Food deposits will aggravate the pain. Pericoronitis infection can regress in duration of 5-7 days. If tooth doesn’t erupt completely, then food accumulates will keep depositing below the gums and can cause Pericoronitis to recur.

Operculectomy that is surgical removal of flap over partial erupted tooth can also be done in case of Pericoronitis.      

Dentist may or may not remove the involved tooth. Dentist will do examination and will make out that whether tooth can completely come or not.  If the tooth can erupt completely without any complication, then dentist may not do tooth extraction. 

If tooth is to be retained and is not to be pulled out, then surgical procedures using periodontal knife or electro-surgery may also be required. After giving anesthesia to the patient, to remove the tissue, wedge shaped cut is made on gums. Periodontal pack is given after tissue removal.

Pericoronitis Home Remedy

• In initial stage of Pericoronitis, patient can do rinses with solution of tea spoonful of salt in glass of warm water. Rinse with this solution 2-3 times a day.
• Patient should brush his teeth after meals to remove the left over food particles in mouth. Food particles present over involved tooth site will aggravate the pain. 

Prevention of Pericoronitis

To prevent chances of Pericoronitis, patient should maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. This is done to avoid deposits under gums. If Pericoronitis reoccurs, then flap of gum tissue is removed by the dentist. Flap of gum tissue may grow back again and in that case, extraction of wisdom tooth is required. 

When to Consult an Oral Surgeon

If symptoms of Pericoronitis are present, then patient should visit his oral surgeon. If patient’s wisdom teeth are erupting, then he should visit his dentist twice a year for examination.

Complications of Pericoronitis

• It may become localized in form of pericoronal abscess.
• Cyst formation can occur in case of partially erupted vital tooth.
• Pericoronitis can cause difficulty in swallowing if it spreads to back soft tissue.
• Peritonsillar abscess formation, cellulitis, Ludwig’s angina are infrequent but can occur as a complication of Pericoronitis. 

Dental Jewelery

What is dental jewelry?
Dental jewelry is one of the latest means of beautifying your teeth and smile. It gives you a smile that will dazzle others. These are basically gems which are bonded to teeth.

What kind of gems are used for dental Jewelry?
Generally the crystals used for dental jewelry are top quality Swiss Crystals. One of the brands of dental jewelry use Swarovsky crystals.

Is getting dental jewelry painful?
Getting dental jewelry is not at all painful.

On which teeth can I have dental jewelry?
Generally, the crystals are put on the upper lateral incisor, meaning the second tooth from the center in the upper jaw. However it looks good on canines as well.

Can I brush my teeth everyday after I get dental Jewelry?
Having dental jewelry does not in any way alter the way you brush your teeth. Brushing twice a day is always recommended.

Does eating or drinking affect the shine or sparkle of the jewelry?
Eating and drinking does not affect the shine and sparkle of good quality dental crystals.

What can happen if I accidentally swallow a dental crystal?
You will immediately come to know if the crystal comes off into your mouth so that you will be able to remove it. Even if you happen to swallow the crystal accidentally, it will get pass out of your body without any trouble as if you have swallowed a seed.

Can I change the crystal?
Of course yes! The old crystal can be removed any time and a new one can be put immediately.

Laser Treatment Advantages

Benefits & Treatments with Laser

 

 

 

Fillings with the Water Laser

Pain free fillings without injections – laser light has the ability to penetrate the nerve fibres in and around the tooth, producing a drowsiness effect on the nerve tissue thereby switching of the sensations of pain and discomfort. This allows most fillings to be performed painlessly without injections.* Unlike the drill the laser will also kill the bacteria in the tooth that originally caused the decay. Not only is this a more hygienic method of providing dentistry but additionally research shows that fillings have a strong bond to tooth substance if done using a water laser.

Children’s dentistry using the Water Laser

The laser is the ideal tool if your child is unfortunate enough to need a filling due to decay or an accident. The laser never touches the tooth so there is no vibration, unlike a drill, and the use of the laser, even in deep fillings, is a wonderful advantage for children. Also the children tend to look at the laser differently, regarding it as a high-tech toy rather than an instrument of fear.

Root canal treatment with the Water Laser

Since root channels are very fine they have a tendency to trap air bubbles where the disinfecting liquid cannot reach and clean effectively, leading to a regrowth of the bacterial infection. If x-rays are taken a few years down line one may observe that there are still areas of low grade infection visible.
The Waterlase MD “pressure washes” and sterilises the inside of root canals 10x more efficiently than other conventional methods. This reduces the incidence of after pain, re-infection and increases the success. Root filling experts agree that the most important part of any root filling is the disinfecting and cleaning of the complex root canal system.

Gum disease treatment using the Water Laser

This is one of the most amazing uses of the laser. In gum treatment the dentist/hygienist will thoroughly clean the tooth surface underneath the gum by using special instruments and in some cases chemicals/medications to destroy the bacteria. Unfortunately the tooth surface is not smooth. Furthermore, current research shows that the bacteria penetrates into the tooth surface by about 1mm.
The adjacent skin is also bruised and infected by the bacteria and the toxins released. The best gum treatment can hope for is to reduce this inflammation and allow skin to grow where once there was bone. However, this is a compromise as this healing is very poor and can easily revert into the diseased state.
The water laser works on a number of levels to regenerate the bone (this was not possible until the advent of the hard tissue laser). The laser energised water sterilises by penetrating 1 mm into the tooth resulting in total destruction of the bacteria and the toxins. Furthermore because the laser reacts with the tissue on a cellular level then it is possible to regenerate the lost bone (a ground breaking achievement).

Treating gummy smiles with the Water Laser

A “Gummy Smile” is more than a cosmetic problem – it can make you self conscious and cause you to cover up your true emotions. Until recently, the only way to correct this problem was to undergo aggressive surgery to cut and reposition the front segment of the upper jaw.
Understandably, not everyone is willing to go through with this treatment because of the complexity of the surgery, discomfort, hospitalisation, and inherent complications. In recent years a lip repositioning procedure has become a more acceptable alternative. It requires minimal surgery and more predictable results.
The advent of the water laser has totally revolutionised this procedure still further – and it offers highly predictable results with a minimum of after pain and rapid healing, unlike scalpel surgery.

Desensitising teeth with the Water Laser

The laser can gently seal the nerve endings in the open pores of the roots leading to an immediate reduction in tooth sensitivity.

Minimal Invasive Dentistry using the Water Laser

The laser can be set to remove the very smallest amount of tooth enamel to painlessly remove small imperfections such as black and white marks and stained cracks.

No or Minimal preparation Veneers using the Water Laser

The laser can gently remove any excess tooth and create the perfect surface for high strength bonding of veneers, one that is slightly roughened and totally clean.

Veneer Removal and Refitting using the water Laser

The ability to soften the bonding glue of existing veneers means they can be removed without deep drilling of the tooth that results in further tooth loss. It is also possible in certain circumstances to remove existing veneers intact, remove the old glue and rebind them to the teeth giving them several years more life. (This is useful when, for instance, the veneers look good but the glue around the edges has discoloured – common on older veneers).

Muscle Attachment (Frenum)

The frenum under the lip or under the tongue (tongue tied) can be removed usually with anaesthetic gel. The healing is very rapid unlike if the same procedure is carried out using a scalpel.

Crown lengthening

Dental lasers can reshape gum tissue (soft tissue laser) and bone (hard tissue laser) to extend the length of a crown for better grip and strength as well as improve the appearance short stump teeth.

Implant surgery using the Water Laser

The water laser has changed the way in which surgical procedures are carried out. We have eliminated the use of scalpels altogether. This results in no bleeding when the skin is cut. It has been shown that when the skin or the bone is cut by a scalpel or the drill the body reacts to this process in the same way as if it had been assaulted – histamine release, inflammation, bruising and pain. Since the water laser uses a gentle stream of water the body does not detect this as an assault resulting in much less inflammation, bruising and pain. This has been a great benefit in implant surgery where control of the healing process is advantageous. Implant exposure does not cause trauma and does not require any skin to be pulled off the bone to expose the implant(s) or stitches.
Lasers represent an innovative and more precise technology for specific and soft tissue applications. You may find that you feel more comfortable and less anxious during your treatments.
The numerous clients who have undergone treatment with this remarkable tool have been thoroughly impressed as can be seen by the number of positive comments in our testimonial book. We have had great success with children who are otherwise anxious about the sensations of the drill.
80% of patient’s do not require anaesthetic for fillings with the

Alternative Treatments Root canal

Alternative Root Canal Treatments
Treating the Infected Tooth Nerve Instead of Removing It--Eliminating the Traditional "Root Canal"

Just because a tooth nerve is infected and causing a patient pain, doesn't mean that the nerve needs to be drilled out and a root canal procedure needs to be done. As long as there is still viable nerve or pulp tissue in the nerve chamber, the infection can be removed with a laser, and the tissue can be encouraged to re-grow, and replace the removed dead and infected tissue using biocompatible, healing compounds. This procedure, known as the Laser Nerve Treatment, keeps the tooth alive and its blood and lymphatic circulation intact, which is important for the tissue surrounding the tooth and for providing continued immunity.
In this procedure, the tooth root is accessed using a high-speed, electronic drill that minimizes shock and trauma to the tooth. The infected, necrotic tissue is removed using a laser, the entire area is disinfected with a laser, then a nutrient-rich, biocompatible material is placed into the nerve/root chamber that will encourage the remaining, healthy nerve/pulp tissue to re-grow and replace the missing tissue. The tooth is then sealed with a biocompatible filling material.
This treatment may restore the tooth to full health, vitality and strength, eliminate the need for a crown, and is a much heathier and immunity-preserving therapy than the standard root canal.
But what if the tooth nerve is completely dead and fully infected, and needs to be removed from the root/nerve chamber?

Even then, there is a better, healthier alternative root canal treatment, called Root Calcification Therapy. The goal of this therapy is not just restoring the tooth or the root; it also involves trying to restore the health of the immune membrane that lines the tooth. We also have to restore health to the bone and get rid of any disease conditions within it, then restore the blood flow, oxygen and nutrients to the bone tissues so that the cells of the bone can survive.
This Root Calcification Therapy is in some ways similar to standard root canal therapy, with some notable exceptions:
First, after all of the dead infected tissue is removed, the nerve/root chamber is cleaned out and treated with ozonated water and other biocompatibles, and disinfected with a laser, providing much greater sterilization that standard chemicals. One reason the laser works better is that the disinfecting laser light is reflected off of all surfaces in the nerve/root chamber, so that no pathogens can hide from it. After the chamber is completeley cleaned and disinfected, the root tips are sealed with Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA), which is a biocompatible material that simulates the way live tooth tissue would act, thus helping to regenerate the circulation, tissues, immune membrane and bone surrounding the tooth. The remainder of the nerve/root chamber is filled with a calcium oxide-based material that mimics natural tooth calcification, releasing calcium into the dentin tubules, just as what normally happens throughout the life of a healthy tooth In this way, the tooth "simulates" a healthy, intact tooth so that the tissue and immune membrane around it remains viable.
alternative root canal treatment
Finally, an inlay or onlay is perfectly fitted to the missing tooth tissue, then laser-bonded to the tooth so that it is restored to its original strength and appearance.

Everything about these alternative root canal treatments is geared to preserve the mouth's and the body's immune systems, and to reduce or eliminate the side-effects and/or failures associated with the standard materials and techniques which are commonly used.

When you lose a tooth it usually is best for your oral health to have it replaced. Missing teeth compromise your “bite” and decrease your ability to chew properly. Missing a tooth, or several teeth, can also increase the burden on your remaining teeth. Depending on the location in your mouth, a missing tooth can also have a very negative impact on your smile and appearance. Fortunately, missing a tooth is not a life-threatening process and you have time to consider what replacement option is best for you.
At your consultation appointment we will closely examine the area, explain all your replacement options, make recommendations, and most importantly, answer all your questions. It is extremely important to us that you are well informed and that you understand all your options.

What Are My Tooth Replacement Options?

If you are missing one or more teeth and choose to have them replaced, there are several treatment options available to you:

"Flipper"

A “flipper” is a removable plastic tooth device. It is fragile and is meant only to last for a short period of time. Flippers are usually only worn by patients on a temporary basis for esthetic purposes while they are waiting for more definitive and permanent treatment.

Cast Partial

A cast partial denture is also a removable device. It is precision cast in metal for increased strength and longer service. Wire clasps are commonly used to hold it in place. These wire clasps are frequently visible when you smile and unfortunately will also commonly damage the remaining supporting teeth.

Fixed Bridge

A fixed bridge is cemented into place using crowns or “caps” on the teeth adjacent to the open space for support. Crown placement usually requires removing or reducing the outer layer of the adjacent teeth. Fixed bridges have been made by dentists for their patients for decades. Unfortunately, bridges have many significant disadvantages:

• The average “lifetime” of a bridge is 12 years, meaning that most bridges will need to be replaced every 12 years. Frequently, replacing a bridge means making it longer because the original supporting teeth are no longer useful.
• Bridges are very difficult to clean under, which results in decay of the teeth supporting the bridge. Often, patients are not aware of the decay until it is too late.
• Teeth do not like to be “drilled (whittled) down”. A full 10% of teeth supporting a bridge will have to under go root canal treatment sometime in the future. Root canal treated teeth are prone to fracture, which further contributes to the early demise of a fixed bridge.

Full dentures or “plates” are the traditional solution for people who have lost all their teeth in one or both jaws. The success and fit of a full denture depends upon the patient’s jaw shape and size, their oral habits, and their adaptability. Some people adapt well to their dentures, while other patients are not able to adapt at all.

Dental Implants

Dental implants can be used to provide support for the replacement of one tooth or all the teeth. After years of research and clinical trials, we can now provide this option, in addition to the traditional treatments listed above. Implant supported teeth and dentures are often a wonderful option. Implant supported teeth and dentures can be made attractive, stable, and comfortable for many patients.

Are Dental Implants An Option For Me?

Dental implants are changing the way people live. They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth which look, feel and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything they want and allows them to once again smile with confidence.
If you are considering dental implants, we will examine your mouth and oral structures thoroughly. We will review your dental and medical history to ensure that dental implants are appropriate for you. And we will evaluate your jawbones with sophisticated digital x-rays to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants.

Dental Implants

When you lose a tooth it usually is best for your oral health to have it replaced. Missing teeth compromise your “bite” and decrease your ability to chew properly. Missing a tooth, or several teeth, can also increase the burden on your remaining teeth. Depending on the location in your mouth, a missing tooth can also have a very negative impact on your smile and appearance. Fortunately, missing a tooth is not a life-threatening process and you have time to consider what replacement option is best for you.
At your consultation appointment we will closely examine the area, explain all your replacement options, make recommendations, and most importantly, answer all your questions. It is extremely important to us that you are well informed and that you understand all your options.

What Are My Tooth Replacement Options?

If you are missing one or more teeth and choose to have them replaced, there are several treatment options available to you:

"Flipper"

A “flipper” is a removable plastic tooth device. It is fragile and is meant only to last for a short period of time. Flippers are usually only worn by patients on a temporary basis for esthetic purposes while they are waiting for more definitive and permanent treatment.

Cast Partial

A cast partial denture is also a removable device. It is precision cast in metal for increased strength and longer service. Wire clasps are commonly used to hold it in place. These wire clasps are frequently visible when you smile and unfortunately will also commonly damage the remaining supporting teeth.

Fixed Bridge

A fixed bridge is cemented into place using crowns or “caps” on the teeth adjacent to the open space for support. Crown placement usually requires removing or reducing the outer layer of the adjacent teeth. Fixed bridges have been made by dentists for their patients for decades. Unfortunately, bridges have many significant disadvantages:

• The average “lifetime” of a bridge is 12 years, meaning that most bridges will need to be replaced every 12 years. Frequently, replacing a bridge means making it longer because the original supporting teeth are no longer useful.
• Bridges are very difficult to clean under, which results in decay of the teeth supporting the bridge. Often, patients are not aware of the decay until it is too late.
• Teeth do not like to be “drilled (whittled) down”. A full 10% of teeth supporting a bridge will have to under go root canal treatment sometime in the future. Root canal treated teeth are prone to fracture, which further contributes to the early demise of a fixed bridge.

Full dentures or “plates” are the traditional solution for people who have lost all their teeth in one or both jaws. The success and fit of a full denture depends upon the patient’s jaw shape and size, their oral habits, and their adaptability. Some people adapt well to their dentures, while other patients are not able to adapt at all.

Dental Implants

Dental implants can be used to provide support for the replacement of one tooth or all the teeth. After years of research and clinical trials, we can now provide this option, in addition to the traditional treatments listed above. Implant supported teeth and dentures are often a wonderful option. Implant supported teeth and dentures can be made attractive, stable, and comfortable for many patients.

Are Dental Implants An Option For Me?

Dental implants are changing the way people live. They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth which look, feel and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything they want and allows them to once again smile with confidence.
If you are considering dental implants, we will examine your mouth and oral structures thoroughly. We will review your dental and medical history to ensure that dental implants are appropriate for you. And we will evaluate your jawbones with sophisticated digital x-rays to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants.

Exactly What Is A Dental Implant?

The best way to explain a dental implant is to compare it to a natural tooth. A natural tooth consists of a root and a crown. The part of the tooth you see and eat with is called the crown. Beneath the crown is the root. The root of the tooth anchors the tooth through the gum tissue to the jawbone. When you lose a tooth, you lose both the root and the crown. To replace a tooth, we first have to replace the root. A dental implant is essentially a new root. This specialized titanium root (implant) is fitted into a socket that we create in your jaw, replacing the lost root of your natural tooth.
Once an implant has been placed in the jaw, the bone around the implant will fuse, or integrate, to the implant. The process of integration typically takes from 2 to 4 months depending upon the quantity and quality of the jawbone. Once the implant has integrated (fused) to the jaw bone, a support post, called a final abutment, will be placed into the implant itself. The abutment actually protrudes up through the gum tissue and serves as a post to which a new crown can be cemented. If all your teeth are missing, a variety of treatment options are available to support and greatly increase the stability, strength, and retention of your dentures.
Dentist has lectured both nationally and internationally on implant designs and techniques. He is constantly updating his knowledge through continuation courses so that he can provide the very best in dental implant therapy to his patients.

How Are Implants Placed?

The office procedure to place a dental implant usually takes about an hour for one implant and no more than two or three hours for multiple implants. The placement process consists of the following steps:

• For the patient’s comfort, we normally recommend IV sedation during the procedure. Once you are sedated, a local anesthetic is administered to numb the area where the implant is to be placed.
  Then an incision is made into the gum tissue and the gum tissue is reflected back to reveal the underlying bone.
• Using specialized instruments, a socket is then carefully created within the jaw bone.
• The titanium implant is then inserted into the socket within the jawbone.
• A healing abutment, or healing cap, is placed onto the implant after it is inserted into the bone. The gum tissue is then brought around the healing abutment and held in place with dissolvable sutures.
  Once the implant has integrated, an impression is made of the implant by the restorative dentist and a final abutment and crown is fabricated. The healing abutment is removed for the last time; the final abutment is placed into the implant, and the crown (tooth) is cemented to the final abutment.

Missing Tooth

Healing Cap

Final Abutment

Final Crown

Two to four months is typically the amount of time required for the implant to integrate to the jawbone. We will follow you closely during this time. Once we have determined that the implant has healed to your jaw, the final abutment and crown will be made by your restorative dentist.
Dental implant therapy can vary greatly from patient to patient. It certainly is not a “one size fits all” form of treatment. That is why clinical expertise and judgment are so critical to implant success. Dentist has the clinical experience and academic background to assure that your implant restoration is highly successful. Dentist will present and discuss with you in great detail all your treatment options, the individual steps along the way, and the expected outcome. We promise to work closely with your restorative dentist and most importantly, as a team; we will make sure that all your implant questions have been answered prior to proceeding with treatment.

Why are Wisdom Teeth/3rd Molars most often Extracted by Dentists

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, officially referred to as third molars, are usually the last teeth to develop. They are located in the very back of your mouth, next to your second (or twelve year) molars and near the entrance to your throat. Third molars are usually completely developed between the ages of 15 and 18, a time traditionally associated with the onset of maturity and the attainment of "wisdom."
By the age of eighteen, the average adult has 32 teeth; 16 teeth in the upper jaw and 16 teeth in the lower jaw. Unfortunately, the average adult mouth is only large enough to accommodate 28 teeth. It can be painful when 32 teeth try to fit in a mouth that holds only 28 teeth.

Why Do We Even Have Wisdom Teeth?

Anthropologists theorize that back in the “cave days” our diet was much coarser than it is today. Also, there were not any dentists around to help us keep and maintain our teeth, and finally, there was not any fluoride in the water. So by the time we reached our late “cave teens”, we most likely had already lost several of our teeth due to trauma or decay. With the loss of adjacent teeth, the third molars now had space to erupt into our mouths, and therefore actually served a purpose – to replace lost teeth and help us chew better.
In modern times we have great general dentists to help us keep our teeth, a softer diet, and fluoride in our water. So we tend to keep most, if not all, of our teeth. Therefore, wisdom teeth commonly do not have enough room to erupt fully into our mouths. Even if the wisdom teeth do fully erupt, their posterior location makes it extremely difficult to keep them clean and healthy over the course of a lifetime. Removing wisdom teeth later on in life is much more difficult, the recovery period is longer and less predictable, and most importantly, wisdom tooth removal later in life is associated with increased risks and complications.

Why Should I Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

• Soft Tissue Impactions – There is adequate jaw bone to allow the wisdom tooth to erupt, but not enough room to allow the gum tissue to be properly positioned and attached to the tooth. This causes tremendous problems because it is not possible to keep the area clean. Infection commonly occurs, resulting in swelling and pain.
• Partial Bony Impactions – There is enough space to allow the wisdom tooth to partially erupt, but it cannot function in the chewing process. The tooth remains partially covered by bone and soft tissue. Once again, keeping the area clean is impossible and problems commonly develop.
• Complete Bony Impactions – There is no space for the tooth to erupt. The tooth is completely covered by bone, or if it is partially exposed through the bone, it requires complex removal techniques.
• Unusually Difficult Complete Bony Impactions – The impacted wisdom tooth is in an unusual and difficult position to remove.

Infection

Damage

Disease

Crowding

If you do not have enough room in your mouth for your wisdom teeth to erupt into proper position they can cause a multitude of problems, such as:

• Infection – Without enough room for total eruption, the gum tissue around the wisdom tooth can become irritated and inflamed, resulting in recurrent pain, swelling and problems with chewing and swallowing.
• Damage to Adjacent Teeth – If there is inadequate room to clean around the wisdom tooth, the tooth directly in front of the wisdom tooth, the second molar, can be adversely affected resulting in gum disease (bone loss) or cavities (caries or decay).
• Disease – Non-infectious diseases also can arise in association with an impacted wisdom tooth. Cysts are fluid-filled “balloons” inside the jawbone which are associated with impacted wisdom teeth and slowly expand, destroying adjacent jawbone and occasionally adjacent teeth. Although rare, certain tumors can be associated with impacted teeth. Both of these conditions can be very difficult to treat.
• Crowding – Although controversial, many feel that impacted wisdom teeth directly contribute to crowding, or shifting, of your teeth. This crowding is usually most noticeable in the lower front teeth. This is most commonly seen after a patient has had braces. There are most likely a number of factors that cause our teeth to shift and impacted wisdom teeth may play a contributory role. Although wisdom tooth removal cannot be recommended solely to avoid crowding, it can be recommended in order to absolutely eliminate any possible role in future crowding and other bite changes.

 

 

 

What is Tonsillitis Clinical Features and Treatment

Tonsillitis

 

Key points

• Acute bacterial or viral infection causing inflammation of the palatine tonsils. Infection may also affect the pharyngeal tonsils or adenoids
• There are 4 types of tonsillar disease: acute tonsillitis, recurrent acute tonsillitis, chronic tonsillitis, and obstructive tonsillar hyperplasia
• Diagnosis is clinical. On examination, ensure that the airway is not obstructed by tonsils. A gray exudate may indicate diphtheria, an important differential diagnosis
• Treatment for streptococcal tonsillitis is penicillin V, or erythromycin in penicillin-allergic patients
• Other complications of untreated tonsillitis include rheumatic fever

Take urgent action:

• If breathing is severely affected by possible obstruction or if epiglottitis is suspected
• If fever exceeds 104°F (40°C)
• If gray exudate is present and points to diphtheria, hospitalization, isolation, and notification of public health officials is required
• Urgent surgical drainage is indicated if peritonsillar abscess (ie, quinsy) or parapharyngeal abscess is diagnosed
• Severe infections require hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics
• Inability to swallow can lead to dehydration; treat with intravenous fluid

Description

• Acute bacterial or viral infection causing inflammation of the palatine tonsils. The tonsils are large, fleshy, oval masses of tissue that lie in the lateral wall of the oral pharynx
• Infection may also affect the pharyngeal tonsils or adenoids, similar masses of tissue located between the back of the nose and the throat
• Four types of tonsillar disease exist: acute tonsillitis, recurrent acute tonsillitis, chronic tonsillitis, and obstructive tonsillar hyperplasia
• Features:
  • Fever that can be as high as 104°F (40°C)
  • Sore throat that may impair swallowing
  • Patients with acute tonsillitis often have sore throat, fever, dysphagia, tender cervical lymphadenopathy, and erythematous/exudative tonsils
  • Patients may also report otalgia, headache, and vomiting
  • Tonsillitis and pharyngitis can occur simultaneously

Epidemiology

Incidence

• Peaks in winter and early spring

Demographics
Age:

• Most common in children aged 6 to 12 years; however, all ages are affected
• Tonsillitis in children aged less than 3 years is rare and usually of viral etiology

Gender:

• Affects male and female population equally

Socioeconomic status:

• Further spread of infection may occur from cramped living, traveling, or working conditions

Causes and risk factors

Causes:

• Influenza A and B viruses
• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
• Adenovirus
• Streptococcus groups A and G, group A ß-hemolytic streptococci
• Epstein-Barr virus
• Herpes simplex
• Neisseria gonorrhoeae
• Serious causes:
  • Epstein-Barr virus and Neisseria gonorrhoeae
  • Staphylococcus aureus
  • Mycoplasma pneumoniae
  • Chlamydia pneumoniae

Contributory or predisposing factors:

• Enhanced spread of infection due to cramped living, traveling, or working conditions
• Repeat attacks are often caused by reinfection by family members or close contacts
• Also common in school populations; viral tonsillitis is common in the military and closed communities

Associated disorders

• Acute pharyngitis
• Acute adenoiditis
• Acute laryngitis
• Infectious mononucleosis
• Thyroiditis
• Otitis media

Screening

Not applicable.

Primary prevention

Summary approach

Tonsillectomy eliminates risk of recurrent infections.

Preventive measures

• Smoking cessation reduces the risk of tonsillitis and may help reduce severity of throat infections
• Excessive alcohol intake should be discontinued
• Inappropriate or ineffective antibiotic use may increase resistance

Teeth Cleaning - Chennai Dental Centre

 Teeth Cleaning

Teeth cleaning is part of oral hygiene and involves the removal of dental plaque from teeth with the intention of preventing cavities (dental caries), gingivitis, and periodontal disease. People routinely clean their own teeth by brushing and interdental cleaning, and dental hygienists can remove hardened deposits (tartar) not removed by routine cleaning. Those with dentures and natural teeth may supplement their cleaning with a denture cleaner. Brushing, scrubbing and flossing Brushing Careful and frequent brushing with a toothbrush helps to prevent build-up of plaque bacteria on the teeth. Electric toothbrushes were developed, and initially recommended for people with strength or dexterity problems in their hands, but they have come into widespread general use. The effectiveness of electric toothbrushes at reducing plaque formation and gingivitis is superior to that of conventional manual toothbrushes. Flossing and interdental cleaning In addition to brushing, cleaning between teeth may help to prevent build-up of plaque bacteria on the teeth. This may be done with dental floss or interdental brushes. 80% of cavities occur in the grooves, or pits and fissures, of the chewing surfaces of the teeth. Special appliances or tools may be used to supplement toothbrushing and interdental cleaning. These include special toothpicks, oral irrigators, and other devices. Scrubbing Teeth can be cleaned by scrubbing with a twig instead of a toothbrush. Plant sap in the twig takes the place of toothpaste.[citation needed] In many parts of the world teeth cleaning twigs are used. In the Muslim world the miswak or siwak is made from twigs or roots that are said to have an antiseptic effect when used for cleaning teeth.

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is the process that results in a cavity (dental caries). It occurs when bacteria in your mouth make acids that eat away at a tooth. If not treated, tooth decay can cause pain, infection, and tooth loss.
See pictures of a tooth and tooth decay .
You can easily prevent tooth decay by brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, seeing your dentist for teeth cleaning and checkups, and avoiding foods that are high in sugar.

What causes tooth decay?

The combination of bacteria and food causes tooth decay. A clear, sticky substance called plaque that contains bacteria is always forming on your teeth and gums. As the bacteria feed on the sugars in the food you eat, they make acids. The acids attack the teeth for 20 minutes or more after eating. Over a period of time, these acids destroy tooth enamel, resulting in tooth decay.

What are the symptoms?

Tooth decay usually does not cause symptoms until you have a cavity or an infected tooth. When this occurs, a toothache is the most common symptom.

How is tooth decay diagnosed?

Your dentist diagnoses tooth decay by:

• Asking questions about your past dental and medical problems and care.
• Examining your teeth, using a pointed tool and a small mirror.
• Taking X-rays of your teeth and mouth.

How is it treated?

Treatment for tooth decay depends on how bad it is. You may be able to reverse slight tooth decay by using fluoride. To fix cavities caused by mild tooth decay, your dentist will fill the cavities with another substance (fillings). For more severe tooth decay, you may need a crown or root canal. In extreme cases, your dentist may have to remove the tooth.