-
Root canal treatment – Procedure, Cost, Pain, Side Effects
Key Facts Root canal treatment is a dental procedure that aims to save a tooth that is severely infected or decayed It involves removing the infected pulp tissue, cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth, and then filling and sealing it Root canals are typically performed by dentists or endodontists Modern technology and anesthesia make the procedure relatively painless What is the Root Canal Treatment? Root canal treatment, often simply called a root canal, is a dental procedure that aims to treat infection or damage within the pulp (the soft core) of a tooth. The pulp comprises nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. It can become infected due to…
-
Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate – Surgery, Causes, Repair, Ultrasound
Key Facts Cleft lip and cleft palate are congenital deformities occurring when parts of the lip or palate do not fuse properly during early fetal development Approximately 1 in 700 babies is born with a cleft lip, a cleft palate, or both Both genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of clefts Various treatments, including surgery and therapy, can help correct cleft lip and palate Early intervention and proper management can yield excellent outcomes for individuals with cleft lip and palate What is Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate? Cleft lip is a physical split or opening in the upper lip. The cleft can range from a small notch to…
-
Bruxism (teeth grinding) – Treatment, Mouth Guard, Causes, Botox, Exercises, Symptoms
Key Facts Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a condition characterized by the clenching, grinding, or gnashing of teeth It can occur during the day or at night, with nighttime grinding known as sleep bruxism Chronic teeth grinding can cause headaches, jaw disorders, and damage to the teeth Various treatment options are available, ranging from dental interventions to lifestyle modifications What is bruxism or teeth grinding Teeth grinding, medically known as bruxism, is a condition where an individual involuntarily grinds, gnashes, or clenches their teeth. This can occur during the day (awake bruxism) or at night while sleeping (sleep bruxism). Sleep bruxism is often considered a sleep-related movement disorder…
-
Dental Abscess – Abscessed Tooth Treatment, Antibiotics, Drainage
Key Facts Dental abscess is a localized collection of pus that forms due to a bacterial infection in the mouth Tooth abscess can occur in different parts of the tooth and gum and are mainly of two types: periapical abscess (affects the tooth’s root) and periodontal abscess (affects the gums) The condition can cause throbbing pain and is considered a dental emergency If left untreated, a dental abscess can lead to serious complications, including the spread of bacterial infection to other parts of the body Treatment involves draining the abscess, controlling the infection with antibiotics, and addressing the underlying cause to prevent recurrence What is an Abscessed Tooth? An abscessed…
-
Pregnancy and Dental Health – Before, During, After
Key Facts Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect oral health Gum disease is more common in pregnancy and has been linked to preterm birth It is safe and recommended to have dental checkups during pregnancy Pregnancy may lead to craving sugary foods which can cause tooth decay Increased calcium and vitamin D intake is essential for the developing baby’s teeth What is Dental Health and How Does it Affect Pregnancy? Dental health refers to the health of your teeth, gums, and the entire oral cavity. It is an essential aspect of overall health. A healthy mouth can prevent various diseases and contribute to overall well-being. During pregnancy, hormonal changes can…
-
Sensitive Teeth: Toothpaste, Home Remedy, After Filling Crown, Whitening, Pregnancy, to Cold
Key Facts Teeth sensitivity is a common dental issue affecting 1 in 8 adults. It affects both men and women, typically starting between the ages of 20 and 50. It is characterized by discomfort or a sharp, sudden pain in the teeth when exposed to certain stimuli like hot or cold temperatures. Main causes include enamel wear, gum recession, and exposure of the tooth’s root. Good oral hygiene and specific dental products can help manage and reduce sensitivity. It is important to consult a dentist for persistent sensitivity as it may indicate an underlying dental issue. What is Teeth Sensitivity? Teeth sensitivity, also known as dentin hypersensitivity, is a dental…
-
Dentures: vs Implants – Cost, Care, Adjusting
Key Facts: Dentures are removable appliances that replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues They help restore the ability to eat and speak properly, and improve facial appearance Dentures can be full or partial, depending on the number of teeth that need replacing Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential for the longevity of dentures It may take some time to get used to wearing dentures What are Dentures? Dentures are custom-made replacements for missing teeth and can be taken out and put back into the mouth. They are typically made from acrylic resin, sometimes combined with metal attachments. While dentures take some getting used to, and will never feel exactly the…
-
Oral Cancer: Stages, Prevention, Pictures, Treatment, Screening, Survival Rate
Key Facts: Oral cancer, also known as mouth cancer, encompasses cancers of the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and pharynx (throat) Approximately 53,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with oral cancer each year (as of 2023) Oral cancer is twice as common in men as in women The 5-year survival rate for oral cancer is approximately 65% It can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early Risk factors include tobacco use, heavy alcohol use, HPV infection, and prolonged sun exposure Regular dental check-ups are important for early detection, which is critical for improving the prognosis What is Oral Cancer? Oral…
-
Dental Bridges: Cost, Types, Before and After, Pros and Cons, NHS
Key Facts: Dental bridges are used to replace missing teeth They can improve your ability to chew and speak properly There are various types of dental bridges Regular dental hygiene is important to keep your bridge in good condition Dental bridges are a more permanent solution than dentures What Are Dental Bridges? Dental bridges are prosthetic devices used to bridge the gap created by one or more missing teeth. They are composed of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap and a false tooth/teeth in between. These anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth, and the false teeth are called pontics. Pontics can be made…
-
Dental Implants: Cost, Procedure, Risks, Pros and Cons
Key Facts Dental Implants are artificial tooth roots that are implanted into the jawbone to replace missing teeth The procedure for getting dental implants usually takes several months and involves multiple steps They are made typically from titanium, which fuses with the jawbone and does not decay Dental implants are a permanent solution to tooth loss and are an alternative to dentures and bridges Success rates for dental implants are high, with an average of about 95-98% Dental implants can improve chewing function, speech, and aesthetic appearance The cost of dental implants can be higher than other tooth replacement options, but they are long-lasting What Are Dental Implants? Dental implants…
