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Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) of the Jaw – Treatment, Definition, Radiology, Symptoms, Classification, ICD-10
Key Facts Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) is a severe bone disease that arises as a side effect of radiation therapy primarily used to treat head and neck cancers ORN primarily affects the jaw, especially the mandible It is one of the most severe complications of radiation therapy High doses of radiation can compromise the bone’s blood supply, leading to necrosis Adequate dental care before radiation therapy and avoiding trauma to irradiated areas can reduce the risk Depending on severity, treatments can range from medication and hyperbaric oxygen therapy to surgical interventions What is Osteoradionecrosis? Osteoradionecrosis, often abbreviated as ORN, is a condition where bone starts to deteriorate and die after radiation therapy.…
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Trismus – Meaning, Causes, Exercises, Jaw, ICD-10, Wisdom Teeth
Key Facts Trismus refers to the limited ability to open one’s mouth due to muscle spasm, pain, or mechanical restriction It’s often colloquially referred to as lockjaw Trismus can arise from a variety of issues, including dental procedures, trauma, infections, and certain medical conditions Management and treatment depend on the underlying cause but often involve physical therapy, pain management, and addressing the root cause Trismus can significantly affect an individual’s ability to speak, eat, and maintain oral hygiene Some causes of trismus can be prevented by early intervention and regular dental check-ups What is Trismus? Trismus, or lockjaw, is a medical condition characterized by a reduced ability or inability to…
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Mucous Cyst (Oral Mucocele) – in Mouth, Lip, Pictures Photos, Removal, Home Treatment, Cancer
Key Facts An oral mucocele is a benign cystic lesion in the mouth, often resulting from trauma to a minor salivary gland It is one of the most common benign lesions of the oral mucosa Primarily seen in younger individuals, especially under the age of 20 Commonly found on the lower lip, but can also occur elsewhere in the mouth Often develops due to trauma, like biting the lip Depending on size and discomfort, treatment may range from observation to surgical removal While they can reappear, appropriate surgical techniques reduce the risk of recurrence What is an Oral Mucocele? An oral mucocele, colloquially known as a mucous cyst, is a…
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Periodontal Abscess – Treatment, Antibiotics, Drainage, Home Remedy, Radiograph
Key Facts A periodontal abscess is an acute bacterial infection localized within the supporting structures of a tooth It differs from a periapical abscess, which is located at the apex (tip) of a tooth’s root Common symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, and a bad taste in the mouth Treatment involves drainage of the abscess, antibiotic therapy (when required), and addressing the underlying cause Left untreated, a periodontal abscess can lead to more serious complications, including the spread of infection and potential tooth loss What is a Periodontal Abscess? A periodontal abscess, often simply referred to as a gum abscess, is a localized pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection…
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Small Teeth (Microdontia) – Treatment, Causes, Definition Meaning, Baby Teeth, Smile
Key Facts Microdontia refers to a dental condition where one or more teeth are smaller than the usual size This condition is relatively rare, but the exact prevalence varies based on the type of microdontia There are three primary types of microdontia, which differ based on the number and location of affected teeth: True generalized, Relative generalized, and Localized (focal) What is Microdontia (Small Teeth)? Microdontia is a dental condition characterized by the development of teeth that are smaller than their typical size. While the overall structure of the tooth remains the same, its size is notably smaller compared to the average. It can affect a single tooth (localized microdontia)…
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Parotitis – Symptoms, Radiology, Treatment Antibiotics, vs Mumphs, ICD-10
Key Facts Parotitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the parotid glands, which are the major salivary glands located in front and beneath each ear It can be caused by various factors, including bacterial and viral infections, obstruction, dehydration, and autoimmune diseases Patients might experience pain, swelling, and tenderness in the gland area, fever, and dry mouth Treatment is highly dependent on the underlying cause and can range from antibiotics for bacterial infections to supportive measures like hydration and sialogogues (substances that stimulate saliva flow) What is Parotitis? Parotitis is an inflammation of the parotid glands. These glands are primarily responsible for producing saliva, playing a vital role in the…
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Amelogenesis Imperfecta – Types, Treatment, Radiograph, Signs, Teeth, vs Fluorosis, Enamel Hypoplasia
Key Facts Amelogenesis Imperfecta (AI) is a rare, inherited disorder affecting the formation of enamel on teeth It impacts both primary (baby) and permanent teeth Amelogenesis Imperfecta does not discriminate based on gender or ethnicity This disorder results in teeth that are discolored, misshapen, and prone to breakage and wear Although there’s no cure, treatments can help manage symptoms and improve the function and appearance of the teeth What Is Amelogenesis Imperfecta? Amelogenesis Imperfecta refers to a family of genetic conditions that primarily affect the development and formation of enamel, the hard, outer layer of teeth. Enamel is crucial for protecting teeth from decay and damage, and its compromised state…
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Toothlessness (Edentulism) – Meaning, Causes, Symptoms, Classification, Treatment
Key Facts Edentulism, commonly known as toothlessness, refers to the condition where one is missing one or more of their natural teeth Beyond aesthetics, edentulism can lead to nutritional issues, speech problems, and other oral health complications With an aging global population, the prevalence of edentulism is a significant oral health issue affecting millions worldwide What is Toothlessness (Edentulism) Edentulism refers to the condition of being toothless, or missing one or more natural teeth. It is often used in a context that refers to the loss of all natural teeth, but it can also denote partial tooth loss. Edentulism is typically a result of tooth decay that has been left…
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Cut on Gums – From Brushing, Not Healing Won’t Heal, by Below Tooth, Between Teeth, Infected,
Key Facts Gum Cuts are wounds or lacerations on the soft tissue of the gum These cuts can result from accidental bites, brushing too hard, flossing, dental procedures, or consuming hard or sharp-edged foods Almost everyone has experienced a gum cut at some point in their life The oral cavity has a robust healing capacity. Most minor gum cuts will heal on their own in a few days While most gum cuts are benign, they can be an entry point for infections. Therefore, maintaining oral hygiene is crucial Gum Cuts Locations: Where you can get cuts? The gums, being soft tissue, are vulnerable to injuries. Here are the common locations…
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Oromandibular Dystonia (OMD) – Natural Treatment, Symptoms, Exercises, TMJ, Botox
Key Facts Oromandibular dystonia (OMD) is a movement disorder that affects the muscles of the jaw, lips, and tongue, causing involuntary and often forceful contractions It is a rare disorder, with the exact number of affected individuals remaining unknown. However, it’s considered one of the various forms of focal dystonias, which target specific parts of the body OMD can be idiopathic (of unknown cause) but can also be a result of injury, other disorders, or as a side effect of certain medications Though there is no cure, treatments can be offered to manage and reduce the symptoms of OMD, improving the quality of life for affected individuals What Is Oromandibular…
