Monday, November 30, 2009

BrushingTechniques For Healthy Teeth


Did you know wrong brushing techniques lead to tooth decay? Tooth decay in children is mainly due to improper brushing techniques which are then carried over to adult hood. Introducing your child to a pedodontist is always a good idea and children can be encouraged to learn proper brushing techniques to save their teeth. Do you know proper brushing two times a day will help to prevent tooth decay and gum disease?Wondering how you can improve your brushing techniques? Proper dental care starts with selecting a good tooth brush. Start the process by selecting a soft-bristle brush to remove plaque and food particles. This is very important as this is where the tooth decaying bacteria thrive. There are many varieties of brushes available in the market. Try to replace your brush every two to three months. The tooth paste you use also matters a lot in your dental care. Depending on the condition of your teeth there are many kinds of tooth pastes available in the market. There are tooth paste for cavities, gingivitis, tartar, stained teeth and sensitivity.

When you brush there are some brushing techniques you should follow about brushing.

• Use half-tooth-wide strokes of brush to clean the outer and inner surfaces of the teeth against the gum line.
• Hold the brush flat and brush back and forth for the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
• You can use gentle up-and-down stokes by tilting the brush vertically for inside surfaces of front teeth.
• Some brushing techniques are there to brush your tongue as well. Use a back-to-front sweeping motion to brush your tongue.

If you think that brushing and flossing alone is enough to keep your teeth and mouth clean and healthy, think again. If you think that you can manage to have a clean and healthy mouth without the help of a dentist, then what are dentists here for?Dentists play a big part in managing the personal dental care of individuals. Dentists check your teeth and mouth for signs of cavities and gum disease.They will also help you maintain extra clean teeth and they will also teach you the proper ways of brushing and flossing.Regular brushing and flossing along with regular dental checkups are all that is required to prevent dental problems. So don’t wait any longer. Go fix an appointment with your dentist now.

Saturday, November 28, 2009

Cure For Crossbites - Orthodontics


Most people have some degree of malocclusion, although it isn't usually serious enough to require treatment. Those who have more severe malocclusions may require orthodontic and sometimes surgical treatment (orthognathic surgery) to correct the problem. Even though many people have receding chins, upper jaw bones can also be too small. Typically, crossbites occur when the upper jaw is too narrow. This can create a situation where teeth will not mesh properly when you are chewing. Eventually, teeth affected by the crossbite will become loose or unstable. Unfortunately, a crossbite can also cause facial bones to develop unevenly. If your child has a crossbite, it is very important to let your dentist expand the upper jaw bones so that the issue is corrected. Today, your dentist can accomplish this goal as easily as installing braces.

In most cases, it is easiest to treat a crossbite before the joint between the upper jaw bones hardens. For example, if your child is still an adolescent, the dentist can use a roof expander to help separate the upper jaw bones, and then keep them in their proper position. Within 40 days, the bones will be far enough apart for new tissue to start filing in the area. At this age, your dentist will not need to cut into the upper jaw, or make use of any other invasive procedures. Unfortunately, if the bones have already solidified, it may be necessary to make use of a surgical procedure.

As may be expected, you any not realize that your child has a crossbite without having a full dental exam. Once detected, it is fairly easy and painless to treat. Without a question, if you want your children to have healthy teeth, and an attractive appearance, it will be to your advantage to take care of crossbites as quickly as possible. You may even be surprised to find that taking care of this problem will also make ti easier to straighten out any teeth that look like they are losing their proper alignment.Correction of malocclusion may reduce risk of tooth decay and help relieve excessive pressure on the temporomandibular joint.

Friday, November 27, 2009

ARESTIN - Locally Administered Antibiotic of Choice


Gum disease or periodontal disease is a serious infection that can lead to tooth loss, eventually affecting your overall health. To treat this disease, your dentist may recommend a locally administered antibiotic. This antibiotic, called Arestin, helps fight infection that leads to gum disease right where is starts, in your gums. Dental professionals add ARESTIN (minocycline hydrochloride) Microspheres, 1 mg to scaling and root planing (SRP) procedures because this combination treats periodontal disease more effectively than SRP alone.

ARESTIN is an effective antibiotic treatment that comes in powder form. This powder is easily placed inside infected periodontal pockets just after the dental professional finishes the scaling and root planing (SRP) procedure.

ARESTIN contains "Microspheres"-tiny, bead-like particles that are smaller than grains of sand and are not visible to the eye. The Microspheres are filled with the antibiotic minocycline, and they release the drug over time into the infected periodontal pocket, killing bacteria that live there for up to 21 days.

ARESTIN Microspheres continue to fight the infection for up to 21 days after SRP. In clinical studies, ARESTIN has been proven to be more effective than using SRP alone. ARESTIN also significantly reduced the size of periodontal pockets compared to SRP alone, killed the bacteria most commonly associated with periodontal disease, and reduced bleeding on probing of the gums.

ARESTIN (minocycline hydrochloride) Microspheres, 1 mg comes in a box with 2 trays, each containing 12 cartridges. It is packaged in a specially designed unit-dose cartridge, which is inserted into a cartridge handle for product administration. Each cartridge contains enough ARESTIN for 1 periodontal pocket.ARESTIN is easy to administer.ARESTIN requires no preparation before administration. ARESTIN is already premixed, premeasured, and does not require refrigeration. After scaling and root planing (SRP) procedures, ARESTIN administration is fast and easy, with no need for local anesthesia.

In clinical studies ARESTIN has been proven to be more effective than just using SRP. ARESTIN also ready reduced the size of periodontal pockets, killed the bacteria most commonly associated with periodontal disease and reduced bum bleeding during probing.This comprehensive apporach gives patients two treatments that work together (ARESTIN and SRP) to effectively eliminate the harmful bacterial that lead to periodontal disease.

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Isolite : The Revolutionary Dental Device


Isolite is the revolutionary dental device that is improving dentistry. Thousands of practices are embracing this innovative technology. Dentists, dental assistants and hygienists using Isolite are reducing procedure times by 20-50%, making the entire practice more productive and profitable!

Work Faster, Brighter, Drier
Isolite is the only dental device that delivers continuous illumination, aspiration and retraction all in one easy-to-use, time-saving device that makes isolation easy and provides uninterrupted access to the patient. Isolite helps you work faster, brighter and drier.
Unique Patented Mouthpiece Creates a Wide Open, Well Lit Field
The unique, patented Isolite mouthpiece is the heart of the Isolite system. The soft, flexible, non-impinging Isolite mouthpiece:

* isolates maxillary and mandibular quadrants simultaneously
* retracts and protects tongue and cheek
* delivers bright, shadowless illumination throughout the oral cavity
* continuously aspirates fluids and oral debris
* obturates the throat to prevent inadvertent aspiration of material

Easy-to-insert, and comfortable for the patient, the Isolite mouthpiece can be inserted in only a few seconds and removed even more quickly. Economical, disposable mouthpieces mean no risk of patient cross contamination.

By lighting the patient's oral cavity from within the mouth, Isolite provides a unique, shadowless illumination solution that benefits both practitioner and patient. New LED technology and the streamlined design of Isolite completely eliminate the need for light box and fiber optic cable. The Isolite LED light source lasts more than 10,000 hours without degrading over autoclave cycles.

The award-winning, ergonomic design of Isolite reduces fatigue and repetitive stress associated with retraction, suctioning, eyestrain, and motion spent adjusting headlights, overhead light or otherwise positioning the patient for better access or visibility.

Saturday, November 21, 2009

Nervous Patients Relaxed In Dental Office

Fear of the dentist is one of the most common fears we have. In a recent study we found that over 90 per cent of people admitted to having a fear of the dentist. For most people this fear is easily controllable and they are able to weigh up the need for dental treatment against their fears. For other the fear is more severe and can range form anxiety to a full-blown phobia. This can be very upsetting and the cause of many emotional problems, not to mental dental ones.

Nervous patients are a big problem in the field of dentistry. It can be a very distressing experience for some patients to be in the dentist’s chair and no matter how experienced, this can affect the ability of the dentist to do their job. It is very important that the patient is calm before they begin their appointment.

This can be achieved in a number of ways. Very often just talking to a dentist can help to allay any fears. Dentists are trained to help calm nervous or anxious patients and can run through exactly what is likely to happen during the check up. This is often enough to remove the fear of the unexpected procedures or lack of control that is so fundamental to many patient’s anxieties.

Other techniques to help patient’s stay calm include self-hypnosis and aromatherapy. Self-hypnosis is a series of simple breathing exercises aimed at regulating the heart rate and inducing a mild trance-like state. This can help patients to make it through appointments in a relaxed fashion. Other recent studies have shown that lavender oil before an appointment can help to calm nerves.

Whatever the nature of your anxiety, it is always very important to receive the dental treatment you require to keep your teeth healthy. Today dentists are trained to help nervous patients so make an appointment to see how they could help you stay calm and in control.Feeling almost no pain at all, you will be relaxed and at ease throughout the procedure. The reason why it is anxiety free is because the Dentist is able to control exactly how much Sedation you will need. The Dentist is able to administer the exact amount you will need so you will feel almost no pain whilst the surgery is in progress.For More information on sedation dentistry please feel free to contact Goma Dental at 177-645-0704.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Dental Hygiene For Toothache Free Life

Maintaining a good standard of dental hygiene can keep your mouth healthy and prevent a lifetime of costly and unpleasant dental problems. Nearly all dental disease can be prevented by carrying out a few small but very important cleaning procedures each day. The saying ‘look after your teeth and gums and they will last you a lifetime’ is very true.

The two most important factors in maintaining a good standard of dental hygiene are brushing and flossing. Tooth brushing has been in existence since Egyptian times over 3,000 years ago. Back then they used leaves on the end of twigs but the premise was the same. They had worked out that by keeping teeth free of debris and clean they would last a lot longer. The Egyptians may have not understood exactly why, as they were unaware of the existence of microscopic bacteria, but they knew it worked. Indian medicine (Ayurveda) has used the neem tree (a.k.a. daatun) and its products to create toothbrushes and similar products for millennia. The end of a neem twig is chewed until it is soft and splayed, and it is then used to brush the teeth. In the Muslim world, the miswak, or siwak, made from a twig or root with antiseptic properties has been widely used since the Islamic Golden Age. Rubbing baking soda or chalk against the teeth was also common. Today we know that brushing helps to remove plaque, a bacteria rich substance that clings to the surface of the teeth and gums. Acid from decaying bacteria in plaque erodes the enamel on the surface of the teeth. This causes cavities to form in the enamel. If left untreated these cavities can continue to grow until ultimately they penetrate to the centre of the tooth. This central cavity can then become infected leading to tooth ache, abscesses and eventually tooth loss. By brushing for three minutes twice a day with a suitable brush and paste, as dentists recommend, you can prevent the build of cavity forming plaque and the formation of any dental cavities.

Flossing is also very important for dental hygiene. Flossing reaches the parts of teeth that regular brushes cannot. For instance, food debris gets trapped between teeth which is too narrow for a normal brush. Dental floss can remove this debris which is the cause for over 90 per cent of causes of bad breath. Flossing also helps to clean below the gum line, where bacteria can build up. This helps to keep gums healthy and prevent painful and destructive gingivitis, also known as gum disease.

By making these few small sacrifices and tying it together with the all important six-monthly check ups with a your dentist you can help to prevent any future dental concerns. An extra few minutes each day to maintain dental hygiene is a small price to pay for a life free of the pain and worry caused by dental disease.

Monday, November 16, 2009

Beautiful Smiles Are Noticed First

Teeth and a Beautiful Smile are among the first things noticed by a stranger, much of the time. However, it depends on whether women or men are being observed. The face and head, along with the body, are perceived differently by men and women. This is according to a recent study by the Dental Researchers . Therefore, this is very recent information about how a smile is perceived by people.

WOMEN have their eyes noticed first by men according to the survey. The Smile and Teeth were the second thing about women that was noticed by men. Those things noticed next by men about women were the body, clothing, hair and other things combined. The percentages of what men noticed first about women according to the study are indicated below:

THINGS NOTICED FIRST ABOUT WOMEN

* EYES – 39%
* SMILE – 25%
* BODY – 14%
* CLOTHING – 12%
* HAIR – 3%
* OTHER – 7%

MEN have their Teeth and Smile noticed first by women according to the survey. Eyes were the second thing about men that was noticed by women. These first two things were followed in order by the clothing, hair and body (these two were tied) and followed by other things combined. The percentages of what women noticed first about men in the survey are indicated below:

THINGS NOTICED FIRST ABOUT MEN

* SMILE – 40%
* EYES – 35%
* CLOTHING – 11%
* BODY – 4%
* HAIR – 4%
* OTHER – 7%

It was not surprising that a person’s teeth and smile ranked so high in the survey with both women and men. It is certainly one of the first things that people see. I think most people quickly notice a beautiful or handsome smile and also they notice a very poor smile. A poor smile is greatly accented if there are missing, crooked or discolored teeth. On the other hand, if you have an unsatisfactory smile, you should visit your Cosmetic Dentist ,for many modern dental techniques such as porcelain veneers and crowns can be used to create a smile very attractive. At Goma Dental in Shimla, we are dedicated to giving people beautiful and handsome smiles that are durable as well as attractive. Dr Goma provide excellent highest quality family and cosmetic dental services in the beautiful city of Shimla. For more information on smile designing please call us at 177-645-0704.

Saturday, November 14, 2009

Smile Makeover For Beautiful Smile


Even though you may keep up with proper dental care and alignment procedures, you may still need a smile makeover from time to time. Typically, this includes a range of services that are designed for the sake of appearance, as opposed to dental health. Without a question, having these procedures done can be the perfect reward for having reached some goal, or even to celebrate some passing some type of milestone. Fortunately, you will find that there are a number of dentists at Goma dental that are specially trained to give you the most beautiful smile possible.

Aside from teeth whitening, there are a number of other things your dentist can do to make your teeth more attractive. This includes altering their basic shape and size in order to create harmony and balance within your mouth. Your dentist will also take the motions of your mouth and face into consideration when shaping your teeth. As may be expected, what looks attractive on someone else may not work for you. Therefore, this tends to be a highly individual process.

Once your teeth are reshaped, it will be time to start working on improving their color. For example, if your teeth have become stained from drinking coffee or smoking, whitening agents can remove all of that discoloration. In addition, your dentist will also look for ways make sure that veneers, fillings, and the natural color of your teeth all combine to match your face and hair coloring.

When you go for a smile makeover, you will be amazed at how much more attractive you will look. You may even wish you had gone for this type of procedure when you were younger. That said, if you are still thinking to put these procedures off for a few more years, consider that your teeth will only become less attractive as time goes by. On the other hand, you can enjoy a beautiful smile now, and have it for the rest of your life.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Dentures : Way To A Great Smile


Dentures
are becoming less and less common as the standard of oral care increases. However, due to knocked out teeth from head trauma and dental decay, there are still a number of people who require artificial sets of teeth.Dentures are prosthetic devices constructed to replace missing teeth, and which are supported by surrounding soft and hard tissues of the oral cavity. Conventional dentures are removable, however there are many different denture designs, some which rely on bonding or clasping onto teeth or dental implants. Dentures come in the form of flexible plastic palates attached to a set of artificial ceramic teeth. They can be used to restore the appearance of a whole or partial dental arc.

Dental decay begins when plaque acid breaks down the enamel that surrounds the teeth. If these cavities penetrate to the centre of the tooth it can cause an infection that leads to tooth loss. Tooth infections are difficult to treat and can easily spread to other teeth. When many teeth have succumbed to infection it removes the rigid structure that supports the facial tissue. This causes sagging in the facial tissue which adds years to the patient’s appearance. An absence of teeth also causes an extensive erosion of the gums and makes eating very difficult. Dentures replace the teeth as facial supports and enable the patients to eat and live a normal life.

Dentures can help patients in a number of ways:
* Mastication - chewing ability is improved by replacing edentulous areas with denture teeth.
* Aesthetics - the presence of teeth provide a natural facial appearance, and wearing a denture to replace missing teeth provides support for the lips and cheeks and corrects the collapsed appearance that occurs after losing teeth.
* Phonetics - by replacing missing teeth, especially the anteriors, patients are better able to speak by improving pronunciation of those words containing sibilants or fricatives.
* Self-Esteem - Patients feel better about themselves.

Problems with dentures include the fact that patients are not used to having something in their mouth that is not food. The brain senses this appliance as "food" and sends messages to the salivary glands to produce more saliva and to secrete it at a higher rate. This will only happen in the first 12 to 24 hours, after which, the salivary glands return to their normal output. New dentures can also be the cause of sore spots as they compress the soft tissues mucosa (denture bearing soft tissue). A few denture adjustments for the days following insertion of the dentures can take care of this issue. Gagging is another problem encountered by a minority of patients. At times, this may be due to a denture that is too loose, too thick or extended too far posteriorly onto the soft palate. At times, gagging may also be attributed to psychological denial of the denture. (Psychological gagging is the most difficult to treat since it is out of the dentist's control. In such cases, an implant supported palateless denture may have to be constructed or a hypnotist may need to be consulted). Sometimes there could be a gingivitis under the full dentures, which is caused by accumulation of dental plaque.

Dentures should be secured by suction alone but often this is not enough due to erosion of the gums. Denture wearers often resort to using denture adhesive strips or gels, which can be very messy and prevent patients eating certain foods. A more permanent approach is to have a set of mini-implants secured to the jawbone to which the dentures can snap on or off. This provides a good level of security meaning patients do not have to feel anxious about loose dentures.Implant technology can vastly improve the patient's denture-wearing experience by increasing stability and saving his or her bone from wearing away. Implant can also help with the retention factor.

Dentures are fairly hard wearing but do need regular cleaning just like real teeth. They are usually taken out over night and cleaned. Dentists usually offer more extensive cleaning services as part of their wider denture treatments.

If you are suffering from missing teeth and want to restore the appearance of your smile, make an appointment with Goma dental to see what dentures could do for your teeth and life.

Lase Gum Contouring


The gum is the soft tissue that surrounds the root of the teeth in the mouth. Aesthetically it acts as a frame for the teeth and if it is out of proportion it can make the teeth appear too small or uneven. Many people, about 7 per cent of men and 14 per cent of women, have an excess of gum tissue, known more commonly as a gummy smile. This excess gingival display can be caused by a number of factors. It is often the result of a hormonal imbalance. In other cases it can be caused by a patient taking some form of medication, often blood pressure medication, but in most cases it is simply a hereditary condition.

Large amount soft gum tissue has no medical disadvantage but cosmetically it can seriously affect the appearance of the teeth. Large gums can make teeth seem short, stubby and uneven but it is a condition that can be addressed through a minor corrective surgery known as laser gum contouring. The process involves using a powerful dental laser to simply remove any excess tissue and sculpt the remaining gum to the desired shape and size to enhance the appearance of teeth. This surgery used to be carried out with a scalpel, which made it a great deal more complicated. The new laser technology means that recovery times are reduced because blood vessels are cauterised during surgery. The intense heat of the laser also prevents any post-procedural infection occurring and reduces blood loss.

Laser gum contouring is a straightforward and relatively painless procedure offered by most cosmetic dentists. It can usually be performed in under an hour and requires no extensive preparation. In some cases gum tissue may grow back but this can be remedied by a painless removal of some of the bone under the gum tissue. Make an appointment for a consultation with your dentist to see if laser gum contouring could improve the appearance of your smile.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Night Guards For Bruxism


Teeth grinding, or bruxism as it is clinically called, is the act of unconsciously grinding or clenching the teeth, either during the day or at night. It affects not just the teeth but the whole bone structure around them including the jaw. As such it is a dental problem but also considered a larger medical concern. Teeth grinding during the night is as common a complaint as snoring but because the noise is not as obtrusive little is done about it.

One of the main causes of teeth grinding, doctors believe, is stress. Dentists tend to lean more towards it being a physiological condition caused by the misalignment of teeth. In children it is almost certainly caused by the accelerated growth of the jaw and teeth.

In circumstances where the teeth are not aligned correctly, grinding is an involuntary reaction to try and make them fit together better. This can lead to a number of other dental problems. Teeth can become worn down and flattened and the enamel, which protects the teeth from bacteria, is eroded which causes cavities. Other physical symptoms you might experience are pain and tightness in the jaw and possible headaches.

Common treatments for teeth grinding range from the psychological to the preventative. Many believe that stress management will reduce the instances of teeth grinding. Dentists will often recommend using a mouth guard when sleeping to protect the teeth. Teeth that have been worn down can be repaired with crowns and other treatments such as bonding. Ask your dentist if you or someone you know suffers from teeth grinding. They can suggest the best method of treatment to help you get a good nights sleep.

Monday, November 9, 2009

Problem Causing Wisdom Teeth


Usually developing in the mid-twenties wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that, if aligned correctly, can be a valuable asset to your existing teeth. However, very often do not align themselves correctly and can cause complications to the other teeth.

If not aligned correctly wisdom teeth can cause damage to existing teeth, the jaw itself or nerves. Wisdom teeth that are partially erupted can cause recesses in the gums that are breeding grounds for bacteria. This can be the cause of oral infection and other oral hygiene difficulties. Also by allowing bacteria into the bloodstream it can increase the risk of heart disease. Wisdom teeth can also impede successful brushing and flossing.

When visiting a dentist they will take regular x-rays to assess the development and alignment of any wisdom teeth that may be coming through. If they have any concerns they will refer you to an oral surgeon who will be able to carry out any further action if needed. This is likely to involve removal of the teeth. This process is significantly easier in younger patients and will also help to prevent further complications in the future. It is advised to visit your dentist as soon as possible to have your wisdom teeth checked.

Although the removal of wisdom teeth can be painful, a fully developed wisdom tooth should be no harder to remove than any other tooth. Some removals may remove more extensive surgery than others but removal will prevent a lifetime of further complications.

Sunday, November 8, 2009

Veneers For Dental Cosmetics


Today, many people think of veneers as a purely cosmetic procedure. Nevertheless, you may find that there will be times when you want to look recapture a perfect smile, as well as hide signs of broken teeth, or other kinds of damage. For example, if you smoke or have Flurosis, you may find that getting veneers will be the best option. When you visit your dentist, you can learn more about this procedure, as well as have an opportunity to learn more about how it will improve your smile.

If you are considering having veneers installed, you may also be wondering if bleaching your teeth will help restore some of their natural colour. As you may be aware, a number medications used to whiten teeth may interfere with other medications that you may be taking. At the same time, if you are not comfortable with using teeth whiteners, you may find that having veneers installed will work better for you. At the very least, you can take care of them simply by following proper oral hygiene. You will also find that veneers will last long than teeth whitening procedures. This is especially important to consider if you have a hectic schedule, or you work in a job where you must often deal with the public.

In most cases, you will find that dental veneers can be installed in one visit. While this procedure is not difficult to perform, you will still be amazed at the difference in your appearance. Since installing veneers may also be part of a total smile makeover, you may find that you look like a different person. Without a question, if your confidence and self esteem have suffered because of ugly teeth, you will more than appreciate what veneers can do for you.

Saturday, November 7, 2009

Teeth Whitening For A Beautiful Smile


If you want a movie star smile, then think about whitening your teeth. The most frequently used Cosmetic Dentistry treatment is Teeth Whitening. It is also one of the easiest and least Benifits of whiteningexpensive treatments that can be done to get a more beautiful smile. Tooth whitening is done by one of three major methods: over the counter whiteners, custom made dental take home bleach trays, and dental in-office laser treatment. The one-hour in-office tooth whitening is probably the fastest cosmetic dental technique that can be used. Most people are good candidates to have their teeth bleached by a Cosmetic Dentist. However, there are some people who are not good candidates for bleaching, which includes but is not limited to people with severe periodontal disease.

The best candidates for Teeth Whitening have several things in common:

* They generally have good oral health habits
* They are old enough to understand the procedure
* They have yellowish or brownish stained teeth
* They desire to improve their appearance
* They have realistic expectations about the whitening process

People interested in Tooth Whitening should have a consultation with their Cosmetic Dentist before proceeding with treatment to determine if bleaching is proper for their particular situation. Not everyone can have beautiful white teeth from bleaching alone, because bleaching varies with each person and their age. Different people require different strengths of bleach and different amounts of time to obtain the best results. For example, if you have composite fillings in your anterior teeth, whiteners are not going to bleach them. Over the counter tooth whiteners are the least expensive way to whiten teeth. However, they do not work well on the surfaces between the teeth and at the gum lines, which may give shadow appearances in those areas. Because of the differences in people and the results that may be obtained, it is best to consult with your cosmetic dentist and have individually made custom take home bleach trays or have in office laser whitening.

The Tooth Whitening process should always start with a professional prophylactic tooth cleaning by your Cosmetic Dentist, family dentist or dental hygienist. Some discoloring may be removed in this manner and it will give your dentist an opportunity to evaluate your overall dentition and possibly determine how sensitive you may be to the tooth bleaching agents, which are usually composed of a bleaching agent such as hydrogen peroxide. These break down to form oxygen molecules, which assist in removing the stain particles on your teeth by breaking them down into smaller particles. The more deeply the stains are embedded into the tooth structure, the more difficult they are to remove. Stains that appear light brown or yellow respond best to the bleaching treatment, while stains that are blue-gray to very dark black are the most resistant to bleaching because they are usually the most deeply embedded into the tooth structure. These darker stains are often formed because to the patient has taken medications such as tetracycline into their bloodstream during the time their teeth were developing. These can be extremely difficult to bleach properly, and in some cases the patient may require a different treatment such as porcelain veneers or full anterior porcelain crowns.

Cosmetic Tooth Whitening time is dependent upon several things, which include:

* The type of tooth whitening procedure used
* How long the whitening gel in is contact with your teeth
* The strength of the whitening gel used
* The amount of stain and discoloration on the teeth
* The type of stain and discoloration on the teeth
* The degree of whiteness the patience desires for their teeth

Custom made Teeth Whitening trays can often give satisfactory results within a short period of time, such as a couple of days or a week. However, in some cases, it may take several weeks or even months for complete results to be attained depending on the type of stain and discoloration as well as the natural resistant of the patients teeth to the bleaching process. Depending on personal habits of the patient, the bleaching procedure can have effects that last up to 3 years, or in some cases longer. Once your teeth have reached your desired color you can usually maintain that color for as long as you like by using your custom made bleach trays at irregular intervals as needed for short periods of time.

In-office Tooth Whitening by your Cosmetic Dentist is very fast and only takes about an hour, and is more dramatic than only using custom take home teeth whitening trays. The major draw back to in-office bleaching is the higher cost of the procedure. However, for busy people on the go and professional or business people, the combination of speed and superior results of the in-office tooth whitening technique cannot be surpassed.

When you first visit your dentist, you should discuss what your expectations are for your personal Teeth Whitening. These expectations must be realistic. The different types of teeth whitening options currently available to you by your cosmetic dentist should be explained to you, as well as the expected results, how the procedures are performed, what the limitations are for each of the different whitening procedures, and the cost comparisons. You should talk with your dentist about your pain tolerance, your budget and the expectations of your final results in order to assist the cosmetic dentist in deciding what bleaching method or combination of methods would be best for you. Your cosmetic dentist should conduct a complete medical history as well as a thorough dental exam, including an in depth examination of your head and neck area. Before and after pictures should be taken to record your progress and evaluate your results. The presence of poor oral hygiene or large cavities may require x-rays for diagnoses and may require restorative treatment before any cosmetic tooth whitening procedures can be performed.

During the in-office Tooth Whitening process, which is under the direct supervision of the Cosmetic Dentist, the cosmetic dental staff will apply a protective layer of material, which covers your gums to prevent injury to these tissues during the bleaching procedure. Then a special hydrogen peroxide containing bleaching solution is applied to the teeth and a laser or high intensity light activates the gel on the teeth. This causes the release of oxygen molecules from the gel, which will whiten your teeth very quickly. Bleaching at home is performed under indirect observation of your dentist. Your dentist takes impressions of your teeth and from these he or she has bleach trays fabricated. These custom trays should fit your teeth almost perfectly and be reasonably comfortable to wear during the teeth bleaching process. These custom trays allow the patient to keep the bleaching gel on their teeth while avoiding its spread to the soft tissues of the mouth such as the gums, cheeks, tongue and inner lips, which are very sensitive to the bleaching solution.

Some discomfort may occur with any type of Teeth Whitening process. The amount of discomfort that a patient may experience can vary from individual to individual and also may vary with the teeth whitening method used. However, the majority of patients having their teeth whitened will only experience slight if any discomfort, which usually goes away within 24 hours. In the instance that the discomfort lasts for more than 2 days the patient should call his or her dentist for advice. In rare cases where the discomfort is severe, the patient they may have to have their dentist prescribe medication.

Although the results of Tooth Whitening can vary from person to person, most patients are very satisfied with their results. Foods that are capable of staining teeth easily and rapidly, such as red wine, blue berries and tobacco should be avoided for about a week. Maintaining good oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing will help maintain the results you have achieved regardless of the method of teeth whitening. On average, teeth bleaching will only last about 1-2 years. However, if you don’t use tobacco on a regular basis and don’t eat too many of the foods that are proven to stain teeth, your bleaching results may last longer up to 3 years, and in some cases even longer. Once your teeth have reached the color desired, they usually can be maintain at that color for as long as you like by using custom made bleach trays for short periods of time.

Benefits of Teeth Whitening are many and include the following:

* Increased self image that should last many years
* A more beautiful smile that is whiter and relatively inexpensive
* A non-invasive cosmetic dental procedure that maintains tooth structure
* A more youthful appearing smile often is perceived

Teeth Whitening is one of the fastest, least expensive, relatively painless, and non-invasive cosmetic dental techniques available to improve your smile.

Friday, November 6, 2009

Toothpastes For Healthy Smile


Toothpaste is a paste or gel dentifrice used with a toothbrush to clean and maintain the aesthetics and health of teeth. Toothpaste is used to promote oral hygiene: it can aid in the removal of dental plaque and food from the teeth, aid in the elimination and/or masking of halitosis and deliver active ingredients such as fluoride or xylitol to prevent tooth and gum disease (gingivitis). Some dentist recommendations include brushing your teeth at least twice a day, if not more. In most or all developed countries, usage after each meal is encouraged by dentists. However when cleaning teeth with a toothbrush with toothpaste, the essential cleaning is done by the mechanical brushing, and not by the active toothpaste chemicals.

Fluoride in various forms is the most popular active ingredient in toothpaste to prevent cavities. Although it occurs in small amounts in plants, animals, and some natural water sources, and has effects on the formation of dental enamel and bones, it is not considered to be a dietary essential and no deficiency signs are known. Sodium fluoride (NaF) is the most common form; some brands use sodium monofluorophosphate (Na2PO3F) or organic amine fluoride (AmF) olaflur. Much of the toothpaste sold in the United States has 1000 to 1100 parts per million fluoride ion from one of these active ingredients, in the UK the fluoride content is often higher, a NaF of 0.32% w/w (1,450 ppm fluoride) is not uncommon. Ingredients such as baking soda, enzymes, vitamins, herbs, calcium, calcium sodium phosphosilicate, mouthwash, and/or hydrogen peroxide are often combined into base mixes and marketed as being beneficial. Some manufacturers add antibacterial agents, for example triclosan or zinc chloride, to prevent gingivitis. Triclosan is a common ingredient in the UK. Bases such as sodium hydroxide are also used to neutralize acids.

Clinpro™ 5000 1.1% Sodium Fluoride Anti-Cavity Toothpaste is an advanced formula containing an innovative tri-calcium phosphate ingredient and is available exclusively from 3M ESPE. The optimized formula makes Clinpro 5000 toothpaste an outstanding choice. It contains fluoride as well as calcium and phosphate, which are components naturally found in saliva. This proprietary formula successfully integrates these components, enhancing, rather than compromising, the product’s performance. During the manufacturing process, a protective barrier is created around the calcium allowing it to coexist with the fluoride ions. Think of this as a bubble that transports the Tri-Calcium Phosphate to the teeth. As the toothpaste comes in contact with saliva during brushing, the barrier breaks down and makes the calcium, phosphate and fluoride readily available to the tooth. The tooth naturally absorbs these components, helping to prevent the initiation and further progression of demineralization and allowing remineralization to occur.

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Dental Hygiene Prevents Teeth Problems


When it comes to dental hygiene, prevention really is better than cure. Nothing is better for your teeth than maintaining a regimented routine of oral hygiene. By spending just a few extra minutes a day to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy, you could avoid a lifetime of painful and costly dental procedures. Ask any one who has suffered from tooth decay, gum disease or who has suffered form a serious toothache and they will tell you that that extra few minutes brushing and flossing are definitely worth it.

Dentists recommend brushing your teeth twice a day, in the morning after breakfast and in the evening before bed, using suitable toothpaste (ask your dentist about fluoride content) and a suitable brush with appropriate bristles. They also strongly recommend flossing your teeth at least once a day. These are the two main front-line defences against a whole array of painful and unpleasant dental problems.

By not brushing and flossing regularly you are allowing bacteria to build up in a filmy substance called plaque which surrounds the teeth, attacking the enamel and causing cavities. If these cavities are allowed to penetrate to the root of the tooth it can cause an infection that will be very painful and can eventually lead to tooth loss. It is also possible for the infection to spread to other teeth in the mouth and even infiltrate the bloodstream causing serious health problems such as heart disease.

It is an unpleasant thought, but the mouth is in fact one of the dirtiest places in the human body. Its warm and moist conditions make it ideal living conditions for the 500 million or so bacteria that live there. If this bacteria is not properly controlled by cleaning it will thrive and cause health problems.

Good oral hygiene also eliminates unfortunate social conditions such as yellow teeth and bad breath. Over 90 per cent of cases of bad breath are caused by poor dental hygiene. Food and bacteria trapped between the teeth break down releasing foul smelling sulphurous compounds that are the cause of bad breath. Brushing and flossing help to remove the bacteria and keep your breath fresh.

A good dental hygiene routine, accompanied by the all important six-month visits to the dentist can help you maintain a happy and healthy mouth. Look after your teeth and they can last you a lifetime. Ask your dentist about how to correctly brush your teeth and which brush is most suitable for your teeth and gums.

Sleep Disturbances/Sleep Apnea


You may not think that snoring or sleep apnea have much to do with dentistry, but they do! If you suffer from a sleep disturbance, you probably feel groggy, irritable, forgetful, and may even fall asleep at inappropriate times during the day. Quality of life and job performance can take a hit when you don’t get the refreshing, uninterrupted, deep sleep you need. If you snore, your sleeping partner probably suffers, as well.

Snoring occurs when soft tissues in the throat vibrate. Sleep apnea is more serious, and it’s often accompanied by snoring. There are two types of sleep apnea, the most common being obstructive sleep apnea or OSA. During sleep, sleep apnea sufferers stop breathing for periods of ten seconds or longer, repeatedly. This happens when soft tissues in the mouth and/or throat block airflow. Because the brain knows that you aren’t breathing, it causes your body to awake, partly or fully, to reinitiate breathing. This self-defense reaction interrupts sleep, and thus, even if you think you’ve slept all night, you may feel unrested.

Soft tissues collapse when the lower jaw falls backward a bit. This is where sleep dentistry comes into play.Goma dental can create a nightguard, an oral appliance, to hold your jaw in a comfortable position and eliminate potential for airflow blockage while you sleep. No surgery, no CPAP. Just a simple snore appliance may solve your problem! Don’t let a sleep disturbance disorder compromise your quality of life.

Call Dr. Goma today to reserve your personal sleep apnea consultation. Our state-of-the-art dental office is located in Shimla, and we serve patients with genuine compassion and excellent clinical care. We’re changing the way people go to the dentist!

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Drill-less Dentistry : Air Abrasion


Air abrasion is a drill-less technique that is being used by some dentists to remove tooth decay and for other applications.An air abrasion instrument works like a mini sandblaster. During air abrasion, a fine stream of particles (made of silica, aluminum oxide, or a baking soda mixture) is aimed at the decayed portion of the tooth. Small particles of decay on the tooth surface are removed as the stream of particles strikes them. The particles of decay are then "suctioned" away. Air abrasion is mostly suitable for shallow cavities that are still in an early stage of decay.


Compared with the traditional drilling method, the advantages of air abrasion are many and include the following:

* Air abrasion generates no heat, sound, pressure, or vibration.
* Air abrasion reduces the need for anesthesia, particularly if the cavity is shallow.
* Air abrasion leaves much more of the healthy tooth tissue behind.
* Air abrasion leaves the working area relatively dry, which is an advantage during the placement of composite fillings.
* Air abrasion reduces the risk of microfracturing and chipping of the tooth, which some experts believe can lead to premature restorative failures.
* Air abrasion allows the dentist to treat multiple sites in the mouth during a single visit.
* The procedure is relatively simple and quick.

But Air Abrasion has a few Disadvantages:

* Air abrasion is not necessarily totally painless. The air can cause sensitivity and so can the abrasives used.
* Air abrasion is not recommended for deep cavities (those close to the tooth's pulp). It is best suited for removing small cavities that form early on the surface of teeth.
* Only composite filling material can be used following air abrasion because it adheres well to the smooth surface created by the air abrasion (amalgam or silver fillings require drill-based cuts to prevent the filling from falling out).

Air abrasion can also be used to:

* Remove some old composite restorations, but not metallic restorations such as silver amalgam fillings
* Prepare a tooth surface for bonding or sealants
* Remove superficial stains and tooth discolorations

Air abrasion is ideal for use in children and others who are fearful and have minimal decay.They seem to be the best candidates for drill less procedures.

Monday, November 2, 2009

Bone Grafts : Reverse Jaw Bone Loss


Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that replaces missing bone with material from the patient's own body, an artificial, synthetic, or natural substitute. Bone grafting is possible because bone tissue, unlike most other tissues, has the ability to regenerate completely if provided the space into which to grow. As native bone grows, it will generally replace the graft material completely, resulting in a fully integrated region of new bone. The biologic mechanisms that provide a rationale for bone grafting are osteoconduction, osteoinduction and osteogenesis.The most common use of bone grafting is in the application of dental implants, in order to restore the edentulous area of a missing tooth. Dental implants require bones underneath them for support and to have the implant integrate properly into the mouth. People who have been edentulous (without teeth) for a prolonged period may not have enough bone left in the necessary locations. In this case, bone can be taken from the chin or from the pilot holes for the implants or even from the iliac crest of the pelvis and inserted into the mouth underneath the new implant.In general, bone grafts are either used en block (such as from the chin or the ascending ramus area of the lower jaw) or particulated, in order to be able to adapt it better to a defect.Another common bone graft, which is more substantial than those used for dental implants, is of the fibular shaft.

When bone graft is implanted in the jaw, it doesn't just simply fill a void in the bone; it may also help promote new bone growth in that location. When successful, bone grafting can restore both the height and width of your jaw bone.There are several bone graft options, and they differ in how they help promote bone formation. They include:

* Autogenous Bone Grafts. Also called autografts, these types of grafts are made from the patient's own bone, harvested from elsewhere in the body. Typical harvest sites include the chin, jaw, bone of the lower leg (tibia), hip (iliac crest) or the skull (cranium).Autogenous bone graft has traditionally been considered the "gold standard" as a graft material because it is "live bone" complete with the living cellular elements that enhance bone growth.
* Allogeneic Bone. Allogeneic bone, also called allograft, is bone derived from a genetically unrelated member of the same species. It's typically non-vital (dead) bone harvested from a cadaver, then processed using a freeze-drying method that extracts all the water via a vacuum.
* Xenogenic Bone. Similar to allogeneic bone, xenogenic bone is non-vital bone derived from another species, usually a cow. Because the potential for immune rejection and contamination by viral proteins is higher in bovine bone than in human cadaver bone, xenograft material is processed at very high temperatures (600-1,000 degrees Celsius). Xenograft's mechanism of action is similar to that of allograft – it serves as an osteoconductive framework on which bone from the surrounding area can grow to fill the void.

Bone graft substitutes are commercially produced synthetic products that have many of the same bone forming properties as human bone, and are a safe and proven alternative to autograft and allograft.One of the advantages of using a bone graft substitute instead of autogenous bone is that it eliminates the need to harvest the patient's own bone, thus potentially reducing the risk and pain associated with the harvest procedure.
Some bone graft alternatives include:Demineralized Bone Matrix (DBM)/ Demineralized Freeze-Dried Bone Allograft (DFDBA),Bone Morphogenetic Proteins,Ceramics and Graft Composites.

Single Heated Obturator Advantages


Out of all the materials advocated over the last 150 years for root canal obturation, gutta percha has proven to be material of choice for successful filling of canal from its coronal to apical extent.Though not ideal filling material does not overshadow its advantages so, to minimize its disadvantages there has been continuous improvements in its chemistry,chemical composition and techniques.Chemically gutta percha exists in two distinct crystalline forms alpha and beta .These phases are interchangeable with changing temperature .Traditionally, beta phase gutta percha was used to manufacture endodontic gutta percha points to achieve improved stability ,hardness and reduced stickiness. Recently alpha phase is preferred due to :
* Low Viscosity :GP can flow with less pressure or stress
* Increased Flow : Creating a homogeneous flow

The newer heated thermoplastic gutta percha obturators simplify the whole procedure of obturation . ThermaFlo by equinox is a simple ,fast and effective carrier based heated Gutta Percha Obturation System. The Smooth insertion of single heated obturator assures a predictable three dimensional hermetic seal in the apical ,middle and coronal third of even the most complex canal anatomies.

Sunday, November 1, 2009

Periotest M: Measurement of Dental Implant Osseointegration


Periotest M: The Periotest M is a measuring device for use in dental practices and is designed for the following range of applications:

- Implants: Assessment of the osseointegration of dental implants
- Natural teeth: Diagnosis and assessment of periodontopathies,
assessment of the occlusal load and control of the treatment’s progress

The Periotest’s scale ranges from -8 to +50. The lower the Periotest value, the higher is the stability / damping effect of the test object (tooth or implant).

Assessment of the osseointegration of dental implants
Nowadays there are many implant systems which are in use. The Periotest M unit is able to take measurements on all of them. Moreover, measurements can be made at all stages of the implant process: directly after implantation, to measure primary stability, following the healing phase to determine that the required degree of osseointegration has taken place to enable pressure to be applied to the implant, and following completion of the prosthetic, to enable any negative developments to be recognised at an early stage.

As a result of the different implant systems and the existence of varying clinical conditions with individual patients, it is only possible to present guide values here. These show which Periotest value indicate good osseointegration and which are insufficient for withstanding pressure on the implant.

Periotest Value Range Interpretation
-8 to 0 Good osseointegration; the implant is well integrated and pressure can be applied to it
+1 to +9 A clinical examination is required: the application of pressure on the implant is generally not (yet) possible
+10 to +50 Osseointegration is insufficient and no pressure may be allowed to act on the implant

On the whole, implants lose a certain amount of stability in the first 14 days following implantation, and this is reflected by an increase in the Periotest values of one to two units. However, once the healing phase is over, the Periotest values obtained will be similar to those immediately following implantation (primary stability). Significantly greater increases in Periotest values, even a number of years after implantation, are an indication that the implant has become unstable, one of its screws has loosened, or it has excess pressure or has become infected (e.g. periimplantitis). It is therefore advisable to record all measurements to allow monitoring checks to be conducted over time.

The Periotest measuring procedure is electromechanical. An electrically driven and electronically monitored tapping head percusses the test object (tooth or implant) 16 times. The entire measuring procedure requires approx. 4 seconds. The tapping head is pressure sensitive and records the duration of contact with the test object. Loose teeth or implants display a longer contact time and the Periotest values are correspondingly higher, while sturdy teeth or well osseointegrated implants have a short contact time and result in low Periotest values.
To ensure that the measurement is valid and meaningful, it is important to ensure that the handpiece is positioned correctly with respect to the test object (distance, angle). The device itself provides assistance by monitoring all 16 impulses. Incorrect impulses are eliminated to ensure reliable and reproducible measurements.