Healthy Teeth Alabama

When should my child begin to brush his/her teeth?

admin — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 12:18:58 +0000

Parents should be brushing a childâ€™s teeth before the child is capable of doing it themselves. A wet cloth can effectively clean gums and remove plaque after nursing. Gentle brushing with a soft bristle toothbrush can begin after the eruption of the childâ€™s first tooth. Flossing can begin after the formation of most of the childâ€™s primary (or baby) teeth. At eight or nine, children can begin to brush their own teeth, and by age 11 or 12, they can be expected to floss on their own as well. A parent should supervise these processes in the beginning to make sure the child is doing it properly. Your dentist can teach you child how to brush properly the first time.

What are dental sealants for kids?

admin — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 11:59:54 +0000

Dental sealants protect the surfaces of back teeth where most cavities in children are found (and most chewing occurs). Made of clear or shaded composite resin, sealants are painted onto the tiny grooves and depressions in the molars. They seal these cracks and opening, and prevent food from becoming lodged and plaque from forming. The application of sealants is quick and painless for kids. Your dentist can determine which of your childâ€™s teeth can most benefit from sealants.

How do I know if my child is getting enough fluoride?

admin — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 11:59:27 +0000

Your dentist can evaluate the fluoride levels in your childâ€™s drinking water. If they feel it is deficient, they may prescribe fluoride supplements for your child. It is important to note that bottled water often lacks fluoride, especially when compared … Continue reading →

How can I make my child more comfortable about visiting the Dentist?

admin — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 12:07:12 +0000

You can help make your child’s first visit to the dentist enjoyable and positive. Your child should be informed of the visit and told that the dentist and their staff will explain all procedures and answer any questions. It is best if you refrain from using words around your child that might cause unnecessary fear, such as needle, pull, drill or hurt. Pediatric dental offices make a practice of using words that convey the same message, but are pleasant and non-frightening to the child

At what age should my child first visit the dentist?

admin — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 12:06:42 +0000

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), your child should visit the dentist by his/her 1st birthday.

Why are X-Rays important for kids?

admin — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 12:06:19 +0000

X-rays are a vital and necessary part of your child’s dental treatment. Without them, certain dental conditions can and will be missed. X-rays detect much more than cavities. For example, radiographs may be needed to survey erupting teeth, diagnose bone diseases, evaluate the results of an injury, or plan orthodontic treatment. Radiographs allow dentists to diagnose and treat health conditions that cannot be detected during a clinical examination. If dental problems are found and treated early, dental care is more comfortable for your child and more affordable for you. It is recommended that your child get X-rays and examinations at least once a year, but you should consult your child’s dentist for frequency

What is considered a dental emergency for your child?

admin — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 12:06:00 +0000

Toothaches: Clean the area of the affected tooth thoroughly. Rinse the mouth vigorously with warm water or use dental floss to dislodge impacted food or debris. If the pain still exists, contact your child’s dentist.
Bitten Tongue, Lip or Cheek: Apply ice to bruised areas. If there is bleeding apply firm but gentle pressure with a gauze or cloth. If bleeding does not stop after 15 minutes or it cannot be controlled by simple pressure, take the child to hospital emergency room.
Knocked Out Permanent Tooth: Find the tooth. Handle the tooth by the top, not the root portion. You may rinse the tooth but DO NOT clean or handle the tooth unnecessarily. You can transport the tooth in a cup of milk.The patient must see a dentist IMMEDIATELY! Time is a critical factor in saving the tooth.

Is it important to take care of baby teeth?

admin — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 12:05:35 +0000

It is very important to maintain the health of baby teeth, even though they will ultimately come out. Not taking are of the baby teeth can negatively affect the development of permanent teeth. Baby teeth are important for (1) proper chewing and eating, (2) providing space for the permanent teeth and guiding them into the correct position, and (3) permitting normal development of the jaw bones and muscles. Baby teeth also affect the development of speech and add to an attractive appearance. While the front 4 teeth last until 6-7 years of age, the back teeth aren’t replaced until age 10-13.

How can I take care of my child’s teeth at home to prevent dental problems?

admin — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 12:02:48 +0000

Begin daily brushing as soon as the child’s first tooth appears. A small amount of fluoride toothpaste can be used after the child is old enough not to swallow it. By age 4 or 5, children should be able to brush their own teeth twice a day with supervision until about age seven to make sure they are doing a thorough job. However, each child is different. Your dentist can help you determine whether the child has the skill level to brush properly. Proper brushing removes plaque from the inner, outer and chewing surfaces. When teaching children to brush, place toothbrush at a 45 degree angle; start along gum line with a soft bristle brush in a gentle circular motion. Brush the outer surfaces of each tooth, upper and lower. Repeat the same method on the inside surfaces and chewing surfaces of all the teeth. Finish by brushing the tongue to help freshen breath and remove bacteria. Flossing removes plaque between the teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach. Flossing should begin when any two teeth touch each other. You should floss the child’s teeth until he or she can do it alone. Use about 18 inches of floss, winding most of it around the middle fingers of both hands. Hold the floss lightly between the thumbs and forefingers. Use a gentle, back-and-forth motion to guide the floss between the teeth. Curve the floss into a C-shape and slide it into the space between the gum and tooth until you feel resistance. Gently scrape the floss against the side of the tooth. Repeat this procedure on each tooth. Don’t forget the backs of the last four teeth.

What is the difference between a normal dentist and a Pediatric Dentist?

admin — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 12:02:33 +0000

The pediatric dentist has an extra two to three years of specialized training after dental school, and is dedicated to working with children from infancy through the teenage years. The very young, pre-teens, and teenagers all need different approaches in … Continue reading →

Do adults need to visit the dentist as often as kids?

admin — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 10:40:28 +0000

With our fast paced lifestyles, we generally have little time for the daily oral health care routine needed to prevent cavities and periodontal disease. This is unfortunate since periodontal disease is the most common cause of tooth loss in adults. More than half of all Americans reportedly have some form of periodontal disease.Early detection of periodontal disease reduces the risk of permanent damage to teeth and gums and can prevent more extensive and costly treatment in later years. Regular dental visits, every six months or as recommended by your dentist, will help you learn more about proper care for your teeth and gums, and help detect periodontal disease early

How is Periodontal Disease linked to Diabetes?

admin — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 10:40:09 +0000

People with diabetes are more likely to have periodontal disease than people who don’t have diabetes, most likely because diabetics are more susceptible to contracting infections. In fact, periodontal disease is often considered the sixth most common complication of diabetes. Those people who don’t have their diabetes under control are especially at risk. A study in the Journal of Periodontology found that poorly controlled type 2 diabetic patients are more likely to develop periodontal disease than well-controlled diabetics are. Research has emerged that suggests that the relationship between periodontal disease and diabetes goes both ways – periodontal disease may make it more difficult for people who have diabetes to control their blood sugar. Severe periodontal disease can increase blood sugar, contributing to increased periods of time when the body functions with a high blood sugar. This puts diabetics at increased risk for diabetic complications.

How is Periodontal Disease linked to Respiratory Infection?

admin — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 10:39:55 +0000

Bacterial respiratory infections are thought to be acquired through aspiration (inhaling) of fine droplets from the mouth and throat into the lungs. These droplets contain germs that can breed and multiply within the lungs to cause damage. Recent research suggests that bacteria found in the throat, as well as bacteria found in the mouth, can be drawn into the lower respiratory tract. This can cause infections or worsen existing lung conditions. People with respiratory diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, typically suffer from reduced protective systems, making it difficult to eliminate bacteria from the lungs. Scientists have found that bacteria that grow in the oral cavity can be aspirated into the lung to cause respiratory diseases such as pneumonia, especially in people with periodontal disease. This discovery leads researchers to believe that these respiratory bacteria can travel from the oral cavity into the lungs to cause infection. Chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD) cause persistent obstruction of the airways. The main cause of this disease is thought to be long-term smoking. Chemicals from smoke or air pollution irritate the airways to cause obstruction. Further damage to the tissue and working function of the lungs can be prevented, but already damaged tissue cannot be restored – untreated or undetected COPD can result in irreversible damage. Scientists believe that through the aspiration process, bacteria cam cause frequent bouts of infection in patients with COPD. Studies are now in progress to learn to what extent oral hygiene and periodontal disease may be associated with more frequents bouts of respiratory disease in COPD patients.

How is Periodontal Disease linked to Heart Disease?

admin — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 10:39:40 +0000

Several theories exist to explain the link between periodontal disease and heart disease. One theory is that oral bacteria can affect the heart when they enter the blood stream, attaching to fatty plaques in the coronary arteries (heart blood vessels) and contributing to clot formation. Coronary artery disease is characterized by a thickening of the walls of the coronary arteries due to the buildup of fatty proteins. Blood clots can obstruct normal blood flow, restricting the amount of nutrients and oxygen required for the heart to function properly. This may lead to heart attacks. Another possibility is that the inflammation caused by periodontal disease increases plaque build up, which may contribute to swelling of the arteries. Researchers have found that people with periodontal disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease as those without periodontal disease. Periodontal disease can also exacerbate existing heart conditions. Patients at risk for infective endocarditis may require antibiotics prior to dental procedures. Your periodontist and cardiologist will be able to determine if your heart condition requires use of antibiotics prior to dental procedures..

How is Periodontal Disease linked to Premature Birth?

admin — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 10:39:26 +0000

Recent studies have shown that women with periodontal disease are at three to five times greater risk of preterm birth than those who are periodontally healthy.

What is Periodontal Disease?

admin — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 10:37:54 +0000

Periodontal diseases range from simple gum inflammation to serious disease that results in major damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. In the worst cases, teeth are lost. The stages of Periodontal Disease are:

Tartar: Bacteria in our mouths, along with mucus and other particles, constantly form a sticky, colorless “plaque” on teeth. Brushing and flossing help get rid of plaque. Plaque that is not removed can harden and form “tartar” that brushing doesn’t clean. Only a professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist can remove tartar.
Gingivitis: The presence of plaque and tartar on the teeth can become harmful over time. The bacteria causes inflammation of the gums that is called “gingivitis.” In gingivitis, the gums become red, swollen and can bleed easily. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that can usually be reversed with daily brushing and flossing, and regular cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist. This form of gum disease does not include any loss of bone and tissue that hold teeth in place.
Periodontitis: When gingivitis is not treated, it can advance to “periodontitis” (which means “inflammation around the tooth.”) In periodontitis, gums pull away from the teeth and form spaces (called “pockets”) that become infected. The body’s immune system fights the bacteria as the plaque spreads and grows below the gum line. Bacterial toxins and the body’s natural response to infection start to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. If not treated, the bones, gums, and tissue that support the teeth are destroyed. The teeth may eventually become loose and have to be removed.

What is a root amputation?

admin — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 10:36:58 +0000

A root amputation is a specialized dental procedure in which one root is removed from a multi-root tooth. The tooth is then stabilized and repaired with a crown or filling. The purpose of performing a root amputation is to save an injured or diseased tooth from extraction. Dental implants, extensive bridgework and custom-made tooth replacements can be expensive and time-consuming. Generally, root amputation and the necessary crown work are less expensive and can be completed in 1-3 short visits.

What is a Root Canal?

admin — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 10:36:43 +0000

A root canal is a treatment used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or infected. During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp are removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. This treatment prevents the tissue surrounding the tooth from becoming infected and prevents abscesses from forming. The term “Root canal” is used to describe the natural cavity within the center of the tooth. The pulp or pulp chamber is the soft area within the root canal. The tooth’s nerve lies within the root canal.

What options are there to replace missing teeth?

admin — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 10:35:24 +0000

There are many options for replacement of teeth, with varying fees for service:

Bridge: One or two teeth are replaced by having a tooth made of metal anchored on either side by crowns on the adjacent teeth.
Complete Upper Denture: All teeth are missing in the upper arch.
Complete Lower Denture: All teeth are missing in the lower arch.
Immediate Denture: The denture is made prior to extraction and is fitted right after teeth are extracted. This procedure is more expensive and will need replacement at the patient’s expense, usually within one year.
Removable Partial Denture: Some teeth are missing and the denture fits onto two or more remaining teeth.
Processed Reline: A denture is relined with acrylic to accommodate the new shape of the gums following extraction or subsequent shrinkage of the gums.
Implant: One or more teeth are replaced by inserting metal posts into the upper or lower jaw. A crown, bridge or denture is attached to the metal post(s).

Why do teeth need to be pulled or extracted?

admin — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 10:27:03 +0000

The first priority of any dentist is always to save your teeth, as it is usually important to a patient’s long-term dental and general health to maintain the teeth. Extraction is an option when a damaged or decayed tooth cannot be restored, or when extensive treatment would be necessary to try to save the tooth, but the patient chooses not to proceed with necessary treatment.

How do you treat discolored teeth?

admin — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 10:26:43 +0000

Teeth whitening is a safe, easy and effective way to brighten your teeth to restore that clean, even tooth color that you used to have. Don’t let tooth discoloration ruin your smile. The things that we eat and drink every day affect our teeth. Did you know? Some over the counter whiteners can actually damage your teeth? Before you start any whitening program, you should consult your dentist!

What are fillings?

admin — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 10:26:24 +0000

A dental filling is a restorative dental treatment used to repair tooth fractures, damaged teeth, or tooth decay. Composite, porcelain, gold and silver amalgam are all types of dental filling material.A symptom of tooth decay is enamel loss, which may … Continue reading →

What are the symptoms of Gum Disease?

admin — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 10:26:10 +0000

Symptoms may include sensitive gums, receding gums, gums that are red and bleed easily, or persistent bad breath. Since there are different stages of gum disease (from gingivitis to advanced periodontitis), there are different levels of treatment. Gum treatment is the treatment of active gum and jaw bone disease and can slow or stop the progression of gum disease. In some cases, the patient may be referred to a specialist. A non-surgical treatment is Scaling and Root Planning. By using special instruments, we remove bacteria and infection from the unhealthy deep pockets around the teeth below the gum line. This is often referred to as a deep cleaning.

How important are Oral Cancer Screenings?

admin — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 10:25:55 +0000

Regular Oral Cancer screenings increase the likelihood of catching this affliction in the earliest, highly survivable stages of the cancer. All family members over 18 should be screened at least yearly. We recommend more frequent screenings when patients engage in … Continue reading →

What can I do every day to prevent oral health issues?

admin — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 10:23:26 +0000

Beyond the connection to your general health, regular dental care is essential to preventing more complicated dental problems from developing. Good oral hygiene practices, that includes daily brushing and flossing, eating a healthy diet and visiting your dentist for a … Continue reading →

How is gum disease linked to Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?

admin — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 07:12:07 +0000

Recent studies of men with Erectile Dysfunction have shown a high correlation between ED and chronic Periodontal or Gum disease. In other words, the higher the level of gum disease the more frequent their erection problems became apparent. This linkage … Continue reading →

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admin — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 13:16:28 +0000

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Kids

admin — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 11:27:25 +0000

What is the difference between a normal dentist and a Pediatric Dentist?

General

admin — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 11:27:01 +0000

How can I prevent oral health issues every day?

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admin — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 10:22:20 +0000

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