Thursday, September 30, 2010
Treatment for Periodontal Infection with Nanofibres
Ma'edeh Zamani, MSc graduate in textile engineering, has produced a web of nanofibres by using electrospinning method. She has used this web to release drug for the treatment of periodontal diseases.
"One of the shortcomings of drug carrying films is their tendency to become sticky or hard when they come to contact with the body liquids. However, due to their soft and non-fibrous structure, nanofibres have solved the problem to a great extent," she said in an interview with the INIC.
"The web of nanofibres analyzed in this research maintained totally its soft and flexible appearance throughout the drug release period. This is also caused by the lower temperature of poly e-caprolactone (PCL) compared with the body temperature, which enables the nanofibre web to have a rubbery form at 37°C. This fact can make easier the use of such webs in the pockets formed in the gums as a result of periodontal infections," Zamani further added.
Elaborating on the advantages of this research, she said, "By using such a system, the patient refers to the specialist only once for the insertion of the device into the periodontal pocket, and there is no need to take out the device later."
"This will lessen the cost and time, and increases the applicability of the device to a great extent," Zamani said.
According to Zamani, the controlled release of the drug from the electrospun nanofibre web will last for 19 to 23 days, while the longest reported period in various systems of the controlled local release of the drug for the treatment of periodontal diseases has been 14 days.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Shimla Dentist Offers Help with Mouth Dryness
Saliva is generated by three pairs of major and numerous minor salivary glands located within the tissues in the oral cavity, such as the lips, buccal mucosa, dorsal surface of the tongue, and soft palate. The major salivary glands produce 93% of all saliva. The glands are under the control of the autonomic nervous system, along with hormonal influences. Saliva is formed in the acini via an osmotic mechanism. Water comprises 99% of saliva. The remaining components include macromolecules, which are secreted by the ducts into the lumen and formed within the endoplasmic reticulum of the acinar cells.
Daily saliva output is in the range of 500 to 150 mL, although the average daily volume of saliva in the oral cavity is only 1 mL.1,2 Saliva output may be either resting (basal) or stimulated, which increases the flow rate. Mean resting saliva output is 0.4 mL/min., and is highest in the morning. Stimulated saliva output, which is driven by masticatory or gustatory signals, is between 1 to 2 mL/min. When saliva is stimulated, there is an increase in the bicarbonate ions, causing a rise in the pH, and therefore increasing the buffering power against a carbohydrate event.
Saliva is an integral component in oral health. Aside from lubricating the tissues, it maintains a neutral-pH environment that promotes tooth remineralization from the wealth of ionic minerals available in solution, and affords an antimicrobial function through immunoglobulins and proteins present in the fluid. Saliva assists in digesting, diluting, and clearing dietary carbohydrates, as well as the buffering of acid exposure after a sugar incident. Due to histatins, proline-rich proteins, cystatins, and statherin, calcium and phosphates are maintained in supersaturation for bioavailability in the remineralization of tooth structure.4 In addition, saliva aids in maintaining mucosal integrity and digestion through salivary enzymes. Saliva is integral to formation of the pellicle, which protects the tooth after eruption .
Saliva's buffering abilities maintain the health of the dentition. For the 20 to 30 minutes after a cariogenic episode, there is a drop in pH. After ingestion of a dietary sugar, the production of saliva ceases once swallowing occurs, and output returns to a resting state within a short time.4,8 The tooth is most susceptible during this time. The need for an increased salivary protective function is highest after a carbohydrate experience.
Since saliva aids in mechanically removing food debris and bacteria from the oral cavity and teeth, diminished saliva flow will negatively affect the oral tissues. As stated, xerostomia has several etiologies, from simple mouth breathing to drug manifestations, hormonal fluctuations, autoimmune diseases, neurological or psychogenic disorders, and aging. Patients may also exhibit compromised function of the salivary glands through neoplasm, trauma, surgical intervention, or as a sequela of radiation therapy.
The main consequence of xerostomia is the dry, burning mouth, which will impact the ability to swallow, taste food, speak, and maintain oral tissue integrity. Demineralization of enamel, an increased caries rate with rapid progression of the lesions, and an overgrowth of Candida will also occur.
Xerostomia may affect up to 20 percent of our senior patient population due to decreased salivary function alone.10 Combine this with the potential for these patients to be taking one or two medications that affect salivary output, and you have a larger issue. However, xerostomia is not limited to senior patients. There are over 1,800 medications that cause xerostomia; some may decrease the quality or quantity of saliva flow, and some may have transient effects on saliva . The duration and amount of therapeutic doses may have some impact on each individual.
Aside from medications, certain disease states will cause a decrease in saliva flow. Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune process that mainly affects postmenopausal women. It manifests with a triad – the so-called "sicca complex" of symptoms – xerostomia, xerophthalmia, and vaginal dryness. Sarcoidosis and amyloidosis will both affect the secretion of saliva from glands due to granulomas (former) and amyloid (latter) depositing in the gland structure. Several systemic diseases will affect saliva flow, including, but not limited to, diabetes, nutritional and neurological disorders, and dehydration. Cancer therapies, including radiation to the neck and oral cavity, may also affect saliva production. Although some cancer chemotherapeutic medications may cause xerostomia, this symptom is often reversible.
Xerostomia will cause patient discomfort due to the lack of lubrication in the oral cavity, a higher risk of decay due to the lack of a therapeutic flow of ions in the mouth, as well as the potential increase of other flora such as Candida albicans. Patients will experience dryness, the inability to properly digest or swallow food, and an increased caries level. This may be the reason the patient is coming to the office; or we may see manifestations of these symptoms on a routine intraoral inspection.
We have all had patients who have exhibited a loss of salivary flow. Many of them have come to us for solutions to their discomfort. On occasion, the mere adjustment of a personal habit (snoring or smoking, for example) may generate more moisture in the oral cavity. Many products on the market promote with beneficial claims, including glycerin mouth rinses, saliva substitutes, toothpastes, or chewing gums.
One product of note that has come onto the market is XyliMelts by OraHealth. XyliMelts is a time-released, moisturizing, oral adhering disk. Unlike other products, the sustained release is effective over a longer period of time. This small disc adheres to either a molar or the gingival tissue opposite the buccal and delivers 500 mg of time-released xylitol over one to two hours during the day, or up to six hours when used while sleeping. Xylitol has been shown to reduce plaque by inhibiting bacterial growth, decrease caries, and stimulate salivary flow. The effects last longer than the flavor of gum or the dissolution of a hard sugar-free candy. Due to its unique adherence to the oral tissues, XyliMelts are the only xerostomia product that may be used during the night. They are perfect for your xerostomia patients, due to their portability and ease of use.They are the over-the-counter treatment of choice for the multitude of our patients who suffer from xerostomia.
Proper diagnosis and consultation with the patient's physician are key to assisting our patients with xerostomia. Using a variety of treatment modalities, we are able to offer them comfort. Depending on the level of salivary damage and saliva depletion, due to whatever source, other options may be necessary for complete care.
Make sure to visit the Dental Clinic regularly to have your teeth and gums checked!For more information on XyliMelts, please visit www.orahealth.com.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Vitamin D Helps Teeth
Of the 51 patients, 23 were taking calcium (at least 1,000 mg/d) and vitamin D (at least 400 IU/d) supplements, while 28 were not; all patients had some form of tooth detachment. The researchers evaluated mandibular-posterior teeth, gingival index, plaque index, probing depth, attachment loss, bleeding upon probing, calculus index and furcation involvement. They also assessed alveolar bone health using posterior bitewing radiographs.
Based on their analysis of the data collected at baseline, six and 12 months, the researchers concluded calcium and vitamin D supplementation (up to 1000 IU daily) had a modest positive effect on periodontal health, although consistent dental care improves clinical parameters of periodontal disease regardless of these supplements. However, they further noted the findings support the possibility that vitamin D may positively impact periodontal health, but this hypothesis should be confirmed by randomized clinical trials on the effects of vitamin D on periodontitis.
Friday, September 17, 2010
Gum Bacteria Can Cause Heart attack
This study was conducted by researchers for two different universities in Ireland and was presented at a meeting of the Society for General Microbiology at the University of Nottingham, UK.
The leading professor of the study presented the findings at the meeting. He also stated that poor dental hygiene can result in gums that bleed which provide bacteria a route in the bloodstream, where they cause blood clots that can lead to a heart attack.
He added that everyone needs to be aware that it’s not only blood pressure, cholesterol, exercise, and diet that people need to be aware of, but that poor dental hygiene will increase the risk of heart problems.
Disease of the gums and tooth plaque are the result when Streptococcus bacteria builds up in a person’s mouth of they don’t floss and brush regularly. Disease of the gums makes the gums bleed, which permits bacteria to go in the bloodstream.
The study found that after the Streptococcus bacteria got in the bloodstream, they use a protein that stays on the outer surface, hijacks the blood platelets and forces them to make blood clots.
The bacteria encase themselves completely in the platelets that are clumped together which enables them to hide from antibiotics. This helps the bacteria because this clumping of the platelets can result in the inflammation of the blood vessels which can cause blood clots that may block the blood supply to the brain and the heart, heart valve growths.
A study is now being conducted to determine how the protein causes the blood platelets to clump together to see if there is a way to block it. This work is being accomplished by the use of a new blood flow model that mimics the circulatory system in humans.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Enlighten Evolution whitening – B1 Guaranteed
Losing the whiteness of the teeth can therefore have a big impact on the way the teeth look and the appearance of the smile. But there is no need for concern as there are now treatments that can be used to treat the colour of the teeth and make them white once again. These treatments have become more affordable over the last few years as the demand and supply both grow.
Enlighten evolution 3, the only whitening system in the world to guarantee VITA shade B1 on every case irrespective of starting shade. Evolution 3 combines near zero sensitivity with the legendary predictability that the evolution system has always been known for. There are no lights , no dehydration whitening and no gingival protection.
Key features
* B1 Guaranteed irrespective of starting shade
* Near zero sensitivity every case
* Impression materials and trays
* Locked seal labwork
* No lights, gingival protection or dehydration whitening
* Online track each case or your whole account
* Practice branding and marketing pack
* By far the lowest concentration office gel
* Free tooth serum paste with every kit
* Refrigerated cold supply chain
The treatment requires the application of a gel containing hydrogen peroxide to the surface of the teeth. This then seeps into the enamel and returns it to its natural colour, or at least a more healthy looking white colour. Treatments last on average about 2 weeks and have few if any side effects other than a feeling of slight sensitivity.
Enlighten is used safely in around 5,0000 dental surgeries across the world so you know you are getting one of the safest and most effective treatments available.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Today, September 12th Is World Oral Health Day
The date marks the anniversary of the FDI World Dental Federation and their groundbreaking International Conference on Primary Health Care, which was held on September 12, 1978. In addition the date honors Dr. Charles Godon, the FDI founder, who was born Sept. 12, 1854.According to the FDI, Sept. 12 was chosen to coincide with existing oral health days around the world, to honor the FDI founder, Dr. Charles Godon, who was born on Sept.12, 1854, and to jointly celebrate the anniversary of the groundbreaking World Health Organization's International Conference on Primary Health Care at Alma Ata, Kazakhstan , taking place on Sept. 12, 1978.
Throughout the world, dental caries or tooth decay is the most common chronic disease, particularly affecting children and disadvantaged populations. Dental disease results in unnecessary pain and suffering, and missed work or school days. Periodontal or gum diseases have been associated with diabetes, adverse pregnancy outcomes and other systemic ailments. Untreated tooth decay seriously affects a person's quality of life.
Each and every one of us, as dentists and citizens, as professional associations and public health advocates, are able to contribute to better oral health worldwide. Let us on this World Oral Health Day join together to recognise that oral health is a vital part of wellbeing for all, celebrate the progress we have made to date, but at the same time commit ourselves to continue working towards better oral health for all.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
How To Avoid Dental Pain
If enamel erosion has occurred to a more serious extent, it could result in a tooth infection. Cavities in the tooth enamel caused by plaque acid can lead to bacteria penetrating into the tooth and causing infection. This infection will attack the dental nerve, eventually killing it if not treated in time. The dental nerves are very sensitive and can be extremely painful if subjected to infection. Some patients assume that when the dental pain has gone the problem is resolved. This may not be the case but simply occur as a result of the root dying. The infection may still be present and spread to other teeth in the mouth and even enter the bloodstream. This is why it is so important to see a dentist as soon as you experience any dental pain.
Dental pain can come in many varieties. It can be dull and throbbing or sharp and intense. It can also be acute and chronic. It can treated with over-the-counter medication and painkillers but it is always recommended that you see a dentist rather than trying to treat the pain yourself. Dental pain is often very progressive and will become more severe over time. Acting fast and with appropriate treatment from a dentist will hopefully allow you to avoid and further pain.
Brushing your teeth is by far and away the most important way of keeping them clean, healthy and free from decay. Effective brushing is the first line of defence against a whole series of nasty and unpleasant dental health concerns that could cause you a lot of pain, embarrassment and expense throughout your life.
Shimla dentists recommend that you brush your teeth at least twice a day for three minutes. It is recommended to use a soft-bristled brush, unless told otherwise by your dentist for specific reasons, as they are the best at removing plaque and ultimately that is the number one aim of tooth brushing. When brushing it is important to angle the brush at 45 degrees to the gums so that they are also gently cleaned. This helps to keep plaque off the gums and prevent gum disease, the number one cause of tooth loss in the India. Using a small-headed toothbrush is also recommended because it allows easier access to more parts of the mouth.
Although brushing is very important, it is also still a good idea to floss your teeth at least once a day as this helps to remove plaque and food debris from between the teeth. As well as this, it is also highly important to make sure you keep up six-monthly appointments with the dentist as even the most rigorous brushers can still be affected by decay and disease.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Beautiful Teeth With Cosmetic dentistry
In the modern world, looking your best is more important than ever. This is not just because appearances matter more but because looking good also helps you to be more comfortable with yourself and more self-confident. Being embarrassed about a certain part of your body can be very difficult, especially if it is one you can’t cover up, such as your teeth.
Fortunately, there are now many cosmetic dentistry procedures that you can use to improve the appearance of your teeth without it costing you a fortune. This is because modern techniques combined with a greater supply and demand have opened up the cosmetic dentistry market to more and more people.
Cosmetic dentistry comes in many forms. You have the option of having the surfaces of the teeth improved by teeth whitening or cosmetic bonding or more structural work such as porcelain veneers and dental crowns. Whatever you feel uncomfortable about when you think of your teeth you can rest assured that there is a cosmetic dentistry procedure that can improve the way they look.
As well as these common procedures, dentists also offer more specialist treatments such as gum contouring and chair-side dentistry. These procedures utilise the very latest in technological advances to improve the appearance of the teeth. Chair-side dentistry, often known by its brand name Cerec, allows the dentist to make visually stunning improvements to the teeth in as little as one appointment.
There is no longer any need to be ashamed of your teeth. Speak to your dentist about the many cosmetic procedures and treatments that are available right now for you to choose from.
Monday, September 6, 2010
Crowns Can Protect Damaged Teeth
One of the oldest and most effective ways of protecting teeth is to fit a dental crown over the top. A dental crown is a ceramic or metal and ceramic cap that is designed to fit over the damaged tooth, covering all parts of the tooth above the gum line to act as a barrier to further damage. A dentist will first need to remove some of the existing enamel so that the crown can fit comfortably over the top. The crown, which will have been made in laboratory conditions to be the same size and shape as the original tooth, will then be cemented over the top using composite bonding.
Crowns are made from metal and ceramic as these are very versatile and strong materials. Ceramics such as porcelain also have a very similar appearance to tooth enamel, giving an improved aesthetic appearance. Once firmly in place the crown will perform all the functions of the original tooth.
Crowns are also used after certain dental surgeries and treatments to add a dimension of protection to the teeth. If dental decay has caused significant damage that a filling is not sufficient to protect the tooth, then a crown may be used to offer greater protection. Crowns are also used after root canal treatments to prevent further infection.
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Dental Tourism Himachal India
There are many factors to attract international travellers to come to Shimla for this tooth travel package.
The possible pull factors are:
1. Able to see Himachalwhich they never seen before.
2. To be treated in a world class dental care centre at very competitive price.
3. A wide range of dental service set up to choose.
4. Availabilty of up to date dental technology and equipments.
The possible push factors are:
1. Soaring medical costs at home.
2. Lacking of comprehensive dental care centres.
3. Lacking of well-trained dental staff.
In order for Goma Dental be the place of Dental Tourism of excellence, the dentists here have gathered their resources together to set up comprehensive state-of-the-art facilities with highly trained staff at dental clinic . We offer complete range of family dental services and advanced dentistry solutions including Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry.At Goma Dental a complete range of dental services include: general dental care, orthodontic services, dental implants, tooth whitening, all ceramic crowns/bridges, ceramic veneers, flexible dentures, cosmetic dentistry and reconstructive dentistry.In addition, other value added services like: on line reservation, on line counselling or consultation, pre-arranged hotel lodging, close by to natural scenic resort or shopping mall are planned for the tourists . These additional services give the travellers greater choice to select.
Here, at Goma dental, our focus is on giving you our closed attention and the finest of dental care. We maintain our notable full service operation in all levels of dentistry to ensure you the utmost possible care. Renowned as a pioneer in one-stop dental treatment in Shimla, we extend our full dental service to welcome you at the gate of India.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Invisible Braces For teens
Invisalign braces are made from one millimetre thick clear plastic that is virtually impossible to see unless standing very close to the patient. This completely reduces the visual impact of conventional braces minimising the impact on the life of the patient. This is also achieved in other ways, as the retainers are completely removable meaning they can be taken out for eating and social activities. Each retainer is worn for a period of two weeks before it is replaced with another computer-designed and manufactured brace. Each retainer makes small adjustment to gradually move teeth into the desired position providing beautiful straight teeth.
The limited impact means that teenagers are more inclined to wear the braces than they are other removable straighteners. Invisalign Teen braces also come with special tabs that indicate how long the brace has been worn for, so parents can check if their child has been wearing the brace for the correct amount of time. This and other innovations such as allowing for the development of further molars make the Invisalign Teen brace the brace of choice for parents and teenagers alike.Our dentists are using the Invisalign system to produce discreet straightening to achieve perfect life-long smiles.
Friday, September 3, 2010
WATERPIK Oral Irrigators & Flossing Aids
Waterpik® is known for unsurpassed product performance and quality, with more research support than any other brand on the market. Dental professionals feel confident their patients will improve their oral health when they recommend the clinically proven Waterpik® Water Flossers.
According to the American Academy of Periodontology, 3 out of every 4 Americans currently suffer from some form of gum disease. Gum disease is a serious chronic problem that causes bad breath and tooth loss. Gum disease has also been connected with other systemic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and low birth weight babies.
The good news is Waterpik® Water Flossers can help you keep your gums healthy and strong. The Waterpik® Water Flosser is clinically proven to be twice as effective as traditional string floss for improving gum health, plus it's easy and pleasant to use. In just one minute per day, you'll be on your way to excellent oral health and the cleanest, freshest mouth possible.
Water Pik, Inc. guarantees healthier gums in just 14 days.Good oral health takes daily work. Traditionally, dentists and dental hygienists have encouraged string floss along with brushing for regular home care. But many of these professionals and their patients know that flossing is not easy. It can be difficult to get string floss between teeth and then effectively maneuver below the gumline.But there is good news: Studies show the Waterpik® Water Flosser is easier and more effective than string floss.
A study at the University of Nebraska found that adding a water flosser to tooth brushing was up to 93% more effective at improving gum health than toothbrushing and string flossing. Whether using a manual or sonic-powered toothbrush, adding a water flosser resulted in better reductions in gum bleeding, gingivitis, and plaque, the common signs of gum disease.
Since 1962, the Waterpik® oral irrigator, dental water jet, and water flosser have been helping people improve their oral health. Waterpik® Water Flossers are clinically proven to reduce the signs of gum disease even in people with braces, implants, crowns, bridges, and diabetes.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Best Oral Hygiene Advice
The main way you can keep your teeth clean and healthy is by brushing. This should be performed twice a day for about three minutes. Shimla dentist also recommend that you use a soft bristled brush with a small head. This is most effective at removing plaque from the surfaces of the teeth and is also able to reach more parts of the mouth. Your dentist will be able to demonstrate the most effective ways to clean your teeth at your next check up appointment.
After brushing, the next most important way to keep your teeth clean is by flossing. This allows you to clean the parts of the teeth and gums that can’t be easily reached by brushing. This includes the areas between the teeth and around their base. It is these areas where food and bacteria can often get stuck and cause the first signs of disease and decay.
As well as brushing and flossing there are a number of other ways of keeping your mouth in good condition. These include using a tongue scraper to remove bacteria from the soft surface of the tongue. Ask your dentist for more information about other ways of cleaning your teeth and mouth. This ties in neatly with the final and possibly most important aspect of dental hygiene, namely regular visits to your dentist for a check up. This will help you to monitor your progress and make any changes necessary to your routine.For more information call us at 177-6450704.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Dentrix G4 practice management system
This new feature of the Dentrix G4 practice management system provides dentists who are away from their practices secure access to the schedules of all practice providers and patients, as well as important patient details such as prescriptions and medical alerts. Dentrix Mobile runs on the latest smartphones and mobile devices, including BlackBerry, iPhone, iPad, Palm Pre, and Android. Dentrix Mobile is available to Dentrix G4 users on a current Dentrix Customer Service Plan at no additional cost.
With more than 45,000 installations and 20 years of experience, Henry Schein Practice Solutions group is one of the market leaders in providing practice management technology to dentists and dental labs. Thousands of dental practices have discovered their technology which improves efficiencies, increases productivity, and enhances their professional image. Included in their product offerings is DENTRIX, an industry leading practice management software. DENTRIX provides features that accelerate return on investment, streamline front office operations, and offers comprehensive clinical applications.
Dentrix Mobile offers dentists a secure way to view schedule and patient information needed to manage their practice while they are out of the office.Another use of Dentrix Mobile is to verify patient information when dentists receive emergency, after-hours calls for prescriptions. With Dentrix Mobile, dentists can enter the caller’s name and verify the patient contact information and prescriptions within seconds.
Dentrix Mobile’s security protection involves password-protected access to the information stored on secure Dentrix Web servers managed by Henry Schein Practice Solutions. Dentists use their smartphone or mobile device to access the server in the same way they use a Web browser to conduct their online banking or purchasing.
Since no patient information is stored on the mobile device itself, dentists do not have to worry about anyone accessing their confidential information if they ever lose their device.Any data viewed with Dentrix Mobile is erased the second the mobile Web browser is closed – similar to online banking."