Lip cosmetics may enhance the frame, but cosmetic dentistry can complete the picture. Non-surgical dental techniques like bonding and veneers can actually plump out tissues and reduce lines and fine wrinkles for women and men, adding the appearance of volume to lips. Teeth whitening can safely add sparkle and glamor to any smile.

So whatever your gender, consider enhancing your smile!

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Dental problems occur when constant pressure is created by the thumb pressing against teeth. The pressure can distort tooth position and alter the shape of the hard palate. However, not all types of thumb-sucking lead to problems. For example, children who such their thumbs vigorously and for long periods are more likely to have problems than those who suck their thumbs placidly and rarely.

Thumb-sucking is a habit that is difficult for some children to break. Sometimes thumb-sucking in older children is a sign of an underlying problem such as disruption in the family or difficulties at school. In this case, parents should focus on the underlying problem rather than the thumb-sucking. Children should be praised for not sucking their thumbs. Parents should avoid negative comments such as “Get that thumb out of you mouth.”

Finally, let your dentist help you. Dentist will monitor any changes caused by thumb-sucking and will be able to suggest methods to help your child get past this prickly patch of life.

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• Sore jaw muscles when you wake up
• Teeth grinding
• Jaw joints that click or pop
• Head or scalp that’s painful to touch

If your physician has ruled out other possible causes, and you suspect the cause might be your bite, contact a dentist for an examination.

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What is an impaction?

When wisdom teeth are prevented from erupting into the mouth properly, they are referred to as impacted. Teeth that have not erupted are not necessarily impacted. It may be that it is still too early in someone’s dental development, and if time passes they might grow in properly. A dentist must examine a patient’s mouth and his or her x-rays to determine if the teeth are impacted or will not grow in properly. Impacted teeth may cause problems. Impacted teeth can result in infection, decay of adjacent teeth, gum disease or formation of a cyst or tumor from the follicle, which is the tissue which formed the crown of the tooth. Many dentists recommend removal of impacted wisdom teeth to prevent potential problems.

Erupted wisdom teeth

Erupted wisdom teeth may also need to be removed. The dentist may recommend this if the tooth is non0functional, interfering with the bite, badly decayed, involved with or at risk for periodontal disease, or interfering with restoration of an adjacent tooth. Once again, every case is different and only your dentist can determine if there is a reason for you to have a tooth removed.

When should wisdom teeth be removed?

The following symptoms may indicate that the wisdom teeth have erupted and surfaced, and should be removed before they become impacted– meaning, the teeth have surfaced and have no room in the mouth to grow. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:

• pain
• infection in the mouth
• facial swelling
• swelling of the gumline in the back of the mouth

Many oral health specialists will recommend removal of the wisdom teeth, as early removal will help to eliminate problems, such as an impacted tooth that destroys the second molar. Third molar impaction is the most prevalent medical developmental disorder.

What problems are often associated with impacted third molars?

• bacteria and plaque build up
• cysts development (a fluid filled sac)
• tumor development
• infection
• jaw and gum disease

What is involved in the extraction procedure?

Wisdom tooth extraction involves accessing the tooth through the soft and hard tissue, gently detaching the connective tissue between the tooth and bone and removing the tooth.

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Therefore, good dental healthy practices are especially important for people living with cancer. Good communication is important, too. Your dentist should know that you are being treated for cancer, and your oncologist should be aware of your dental history.

As a patient living with cancer, you should:

• Schedule a dental exam and cleaning before cancer treatment begins and periodically during the course of your treatment.
• Discuss dental procedures, such as the pulling of teeth or insertion of dental implants, with your oncologist before you start your cancer treatment.
• Have your dentist check and adjust removable dentures, if you have them.
• Tell your physician about any bleeding of the gums, pain, or unusual feeling in your teeth or gums, or any dental infections.

Regular dental hygiene is not that different for people with cancer than it is for people who do not have cancer, but because cancer treatments can affect the gums and teeth, it can be even more important.

If you have cancer, your routine dental hygiene should include:

• Brushing your teeth and tongue after every meal and at bedtime, using a soft toothbrush and gentle stroke.
• Gentle flossing once a day to remove plaque (if your gums bleed or hurt, the area that is sore should be avoided, but the other teeth still should be flossed).
• Keeping your mouth moist by rinsing often with water (many medicines cause “dry mouth” which can lead to decay and other dental problems).
• Avoid use of mouthwash that contains alcohol.

Use a mirror to check your teeth and gums daily for any changes, such as sores or bleeding gums. If you notice a problem or a change, or experience pain in your mouth, teeth, or jaws, report it to your dentist or oncologist immediately.

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Gum disease, or periodontal disease, a chronic inflammation and infection of the gums and surrounding tissue, is the major cause of about 70 percent of adult tooth loss, affecting three out of four persons at some point in their life.

What causes gum disease?

Bacterial plaque– a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on the teeth- is recognized as the primary cause of gum disease. Specific periodontal diseases may be associated with specific bacterial types. If plaque isn’t removed each day by brushing and flossing, it hardens into a rough, porous substance called calculus (also known as tartar). Toxins (poisons) produced and released by bacteria in plaque irritate the gums. These toxins cause the breakdown of the fibers that hold the gums tightly to the teeth, creating periodontal pockets which fill with even more toxins and bacteria. As the disease progresses, pockets extend deeper and the bacteria moves down until the bone that holds the tooth in place is destroyed. The tooth eventually will fall out or require extraction.

Are there other factors?

Yes. Genetics is also a factor, as are lifestyle choices. A diet low in nutrients can diminish the body’s ability to fight infections. Smokers and spit tobacco users have more irritation to gum tissues than non-tobacco users, while stress can also affect the ability to ward off disease. Diseases that interfere with the body’s immune system, such as leukemia and AIDS, may worsen the condition for the gums. In patients with uncontrolled diabetes, where the body is more prone to infection, gum disease is more severe or harder to control.

What are the warning signs of gum disease?

Signs include red, swollen or tender gums, bleeding while brushing or flossing, gum that pull away from teeth, loose or separating teeth, puss between the gum and tooth, persistent bad breath, change in the way teeth fit together when the patient bites, and a change in the fit of partial dentures. While patients are advised to check for the warning signs, there might not be any discomfort until the disease has spread to a point where the tooth is unsalvagable. That’s why patients are advised to get frequent dental exams.

What does periodontal treatment involve?

In the early stages, most treatment involves scaling and root planing — removing plaque and calculus around the tooth and smoothing the root surfaces. Antibiotics or antimicrobials may be used to supplement the effects of scaling and root planing. In most cases of early gum disease, called gingivitis, scaling and root planing and proper daily cleaning achieve a satisfactory result. More advanced cases may require surgical treatment, which involves cutting the gums, and removing the hardened plaque build-up and recontouring the damaged bone. The procedure is also deigned to smooth root surfaces and reposition the gum tissue so it will be easier to keep clean.

How do you prevent gum disease?

Removing plaque through daily brushing, flossing and professional cleaning is the best way to minimize your risk. Your dentist can design a personalized program of home oral care to meet your needs. If a dentist doesn’t do a periodontal exam during a regular visit, the patient should request it. Children also should be examined.

What is the role of the general dentist?

The general dentist usually detects gum disease and treats it in the early stages. Some general dentists have acquired additional expertise to treat more advanced conditions of the disease. If the general dentist believes that the gum disease requires more treatment by a specialist, the patient will be referred to a periodontist. The dentist and periodontists will work together to formulate a treatment plan for the patient.

Is maintenance important?

Sticking to a regular oral hygiene regimen is crucial for patients who want to sustain the results of therapy. Patients should visit the dentist every 3-4 months (or more, depending on the patient) for spot scaling and root planing and an overall exam. In between visits, they should brush at least twice a day, floss daily, and brush their tongue. Manual soft nylon bristles are the most dependable and least expensive. Electric toothbrushes are also a good option, but don’t reach any further into the pocket than manual brushes. Proxy brushes (small, narrow brushes) are the best way to clean in between the recesses in the teeth, and should be used once a day. Wooden tooth picks and rubber tips should only be used if recommended by your dentist.

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• Get a good night’s sleep.
• If you are prone to dental anxiety, eat a high-protein snack and avoid caffeinated or sugary beverages on the day of your visit to help keep you calm.
• If your dental visit coincides with your usual mealtime, bring a healthy snack to much on.
• Wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing.
• Bring a list of medications (name and dosage), as well as the names of your recent and current health care practitioners. Additionally, alert your dentist of any medical conditions you have been diagnosed with.
• Jot down any questions you think of on a notepad. Bring extra paper with you to record the dentist’s answers and any oral care instructions.

What happens during an exam?

Expect your dentist to perform a thorough examination, detect potential problems, and provide an appropriate treatment plan. An initial examination may include some or all of the following procedures:a soft tissue examination; screening and exam for periodontal disease; detailed charting of cavities, existing restorations (fillings and crowns), and other tooth conditions; and an oral cancer screening. Dental x-rays also may be taken to locate any abnormalities or injuries that cannot be detected through a visual exam.

Is it important to share a complete medical history?

Yes. Even if you’ve seen the same dentist for years, communicate any changes in your mouth or medical conditions that have been recently diagnosed. Health conditions, medications – even vitamins- can interfere with routine dental procedures. If you have a medical condition, such as heart-valve problems, recent total joint replacement, or insulin-dependent diabetes, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics before your dental visit to prevent the spread of bacteria. these procedures could include professional teeth cleaning, extractions, and implant surgery.

If you are a cancer patient undergoing chemotherapy, it is important to inform your dentist about your condition. According to the National Institutes for Health, 40 percent of cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy experience oral complications including salivary gland dysfunction, which leads to dry mouth rampant dental decay, and painful mouth sores. The more your dentist knows about your medical history and overall health, the better he or she is able to develop a personalized dental treatment plan to help improve your quality of life.

Are routine visits necessary?

Yes. Make sure to get regular dental checkups at least every six months to maintain healthy teeth and gums. But it is important to know that achieving optimum oral health requires more than regular checkups: it requires you to be an informed patient and an active participant in your own health. Ask your dentist questions about results for your check up and any recommended treatment. If you have researched an oral health problem, the information that you gather can help you identify health concerns and ask the right questions.

Do I need to discuss payment arrangements before my visit?

Payment requirements vary with each dental office, so it’s a good idea to discuss this with the receptionist before your next visit. Making payment arrangements ahead of time also can help reduce pre-visit related stress. If possible, find out what services your dental insurance covers. Ask whether your dentist accepts this kind of insurance and about what payment options are offered.

What if I need to cancel my appointment?

If you cannot keep a scheduled dental appointment, don’t’ wait until the last minute to cancel or now show up at all. Since staff has set up a specific time slot for your oral health care, you should provide as much notice as possible of cancellation. Penalties for missed appointments vary from office to office and some may charge you for failure to cancel . While some emergencies may make it difficult to provide advance notice, 24 hours is recommended.

If you’re unsure about what to ask your dentist, try these questions:

• What type of toothbrush and floss is best for me?
• Am I brushing and flossing effectively?
• Are my teeth and gums healthy?

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You may not have noticed the slight but significant facial differences that contribute to our perception of masculinity and femininity. In dentistry, the biting edges of men’s teeth are usually straight while women’s tend to be curved. The second incisors (teeth on either side of the front teeth) are wider on men and narrower on women. The eye-teeth tend to be more dominant in males, and male tooth enamel tends to be thinner, affecting color.

Taking these differences into account is just one of the ways that we help you achieve a balanced, natural smile that matches your perceived idea.

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After eating and drinking, food particles are inevitably left in the mouth and on the surface of your teeth. The bacteria in your mouth devour the food and a byproduct of their feast is acid, which can eat a hole–or cavity– in the tooth’s enamel. Left untreated, the cavity can cause considerable pain, and destroy the dentin, pulp, and the tooth’s nerve. Thus, diet and nutrition play a major role in oral health and the incidence of tooth decay.

What foods cause cavities?

Many kinds of food can cause cavities. Foods high in sugar, starch and carbohydrates are particularly problematic because they provide the bacteria with a high-energy source. Also, sticky foods, such as raisins, caramel and honey, adhere to tooth surfaces and are a favorite of bacteria because it is a lasting food source.

Diet plays a major role in the prevention of tooth decay. Increased consumption of poor food choices increases the chances for tooth decay.

Do certain foods help prevent cavities?

Some research says certain foods, such as peanuts or sugar-free chewing gum, may be “friendly” to teeth. Eating these foods along with or after foods that contain carbohydrates may help to counter the effects of acids produced bacteria. Drinking plenty of water can help wash away food particles. Of course, dentists encourage their patients to eschew these sugary snacks in favor of healthy alternatives, such as fruit.

How can I avoid cavities?

Regular brushing, flossing and dental check ups can significantly reduce the chances of tooth decay. Dentists recommend that people brush their teeth at least twice a day for two to four minutes each time. Brushing removes bacteria as well as the food debris bacteria thrive on. You should follow brushing with flossing, which reaches areas of your mouth your toothbrush cannot.

Drink plenty of fluoridated water and brush with a toothpaste containing fluoride. Fluoride strengthens enamel. Beware of bottled water, however, because some companies do not fluoridate their product. If the water supply in your community is not fluoridated, see your dentist about fluoride treatments.

What else can I do to prevent cavities?

When you eat meals or snacks containing sugars or carbohydrates, follow the meal with water to help wash off food particles remaining on the teeth.

Keep a toothbrush and toothpaste handy; children can keep travel size products in lockers or back packs and adults should keep a spare pair at work. Chew sugarless gum (with or without xylitol) after meals or snacks when unable to brush. Drink water throughout the day to help cleanse teeth of excess bacteria and food debris, and keep the mouth hydrated.

One way to help prevent cavities is to limit the amount of foods that contain sugars, avoid between meal snacks when possible. If you do eat foods that contain sugars, eat them during meals. Saliva production increases during a meal and helps to neutralize acid production and rinse food particles from the mouth.

Finally, see your dentist at least twice a year. Your dentist can catch minor problems before they become major ones. Your dentist can give you tops on foods to avoid and how to keep your mouth healthy. Also, dentist can inform you of medications that may cause dry mouth, which makes your teeth more susceptible to decay.

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