Nobel Implants: The Next Step in Dental Implant Technology

Dental implants are an excellent solution for people who have lost one or more teeth due to injury, decay, or other causes. They offer a long-lasting and natural-looking replacement for missing teeth, and they can help to restore your confidence in your smile.

One of the most advanced types of dental implants on the market today is Nobel Implants. These implants are made by Nobel Biocare, a leading manufacturer of dental implants and other dental products.

What Makes Nobel Implants Different?

Nobel Implants are designed to provide exceptional stability and durability for dental patients. They are made from high-quality materials, including titanium and zirconia, which are both biocompatible and can integrate well with the natural bone in your jaw.

Nobel Implants also offer a unique surface technology known as TiUnite. This special surface treatment enhances the bonding between the implant and the surrounding bone, which can help to reduce the risk of implant failure.

The Benefits of Nobel Implants

There are several benefits of choosing Nobel Implants for your dental implant procedure, including:

• Improved Stability: Nobel Implants are designed to provide superior stability and support for your replacement teeth. This can help to prevent shifting or movement of the teeth, which can be uncomfortable and can also compromise the health of your remaining teeth.
  
  
• Longevity: Nobel Implants are built to last. With proper care and maintenance, they can provide a durable and long-lasting solution for missing teeth.
  
  
• Enhanced Aesthetics: Nobel Implants are designed to look and feel like natural teeth. They are customized to match the size, shape, and color of your existing teeth, providing a seamless and natural-looking smile.
  
  
• Reduced Recovery Time: Because Nobel Implants are designed to integrate well with the natural bone in your jaw, they can help to reduce the recovery time and minimize the discomfort associated with dental implant surgery.

Choosing the Right Implant for You

If you're considering dental implants, it's important to choose a high-quality implant that will provide you with the best possible results. Nobel Implants are an excellent choice for many patients, but it's important to work with a qualified and experienced dental professional to determine whether they are the right choice for you.

At your initial consultation, your dentist will evaluate your oral health, discuss your treatment options, and help you decide whether Nobel Implants are the best choice for your individual needs.

In Conclusion

Nobel Implants are an innovative and advanced type of dental implant that can provide exceptional stability, durability, and aesthetics for patients who have lost one or more teeth. With their unique surface technology and high-quality materials, they offer a long-lasting and natural-looking solution for missing teeth. If you're considering dental implants, talk to your dentist about whether Nobel Implants might be right for you.

Pediatric Dentistry Importance

Pediatric dentistry is an essential branch of dentistry that focuses on the dental care of children from infancy through adolescence. It is crucial to introduce children to dental care early in life to prevent dental problems in the future. Here, we will discuss what pediatric dentistry is, why it's important, and what treatments and services it provides.

What is Pediatric Dentistry?

Pediatric dentistry is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on providing dental care to children, including infants, toddlers, children, and teenagers. Pediatric dentists have additional training and expertise in child psychology, child development, and behavior management, which allows them to provide dental care in a comfortable, friendly, and non-threatening environment.

Why is Pediatric Dentistry Important?

Pediatric dentistry is vital for several reasons. First, it helps prevent dental problems in the future by encouraging good dental habits and hygiene early on. Second, it ensures that children's teeth and gums are healthy, which can prevent the need for more extensive dental work in the future. Finally, pediatric dentists can identify potential dental problems early and provide treatment before they become more severe.

Treatments and Services Provided by Pediatric Dentists

Pediatric dentists provide a wide range of treatments and services to children, including the following:

• Dental Exams and Cleanings: Pediatric dentists recommend that children receive dental exams and cleanings every six months to ensure that their teeth and gums are healthy.
  
  
• Preventative Care: Pediatric dentists provide preventative care to help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems. This includes dental sealants, fluoride treatments, and oral health education.
  
  
• Restorative Care: If a child has a cavity or other dental problem, a pediatric dentist can provide restorative care, such as fillings, crowns, and root canals.
  
  
• Orthodontic Treatment: Pediatric dentists can also provide orthodontic treatment to straighten children's teeth and correct bite problems.
  
  
• Emergency Care: If a child experiences a dental emergency, such as a knocked-out tooth, a pediatric dentist can provide emergency care to address the issue.

Conclusion

Pediatric dentistry plays a critical role in maintaining children's oral health and preventing dental problems in the future. Pediatric dentists have specialized training and expertise that allow them to provide dental care in a comfortable, friendly, and non-threatening environment. By introducing children to dental care early in life and providing preventative and restorative treatments, pediatric dentists help ensure that children's teeth and gums remain healthy throughout their lives.

Veneers for a Better Smile

Dental veneers are a popular cosmetic dental treatment that can help improve the appearance of your smile. Veneers are thin shells made of either porcelain or composite resin that are placed over the front of your teeth to improve their shape, size, and color.

Porcelain veneers are the most popular type of veneer because they are durable, stain-resistant, and look very natural. Composite veneers, on the other hand, are less expensive but may not last as long as porcelain veneers.

Veneers can be used to address a variety of cosmetic dental issues, such as:

• Discolored teeth: Teeth that are discolored due to aging, smoking, or certain medications can be covered with veneers to create a bright, white smile.
  
  
• Chipped or cracked teeth: Teeth that are chipped or cracked can be covered with veneers to restore their shape and protect them from further damage.
  
  
• Gaps between teeth: Veneers can be used to close small gaps between teeth, giving your smile a more uniform appearance.
  
  
• Misshapen teeth: Teeth that are misshapen or uneven can be covered with veneers to improve their appearance and create a more symmetrical smile.

The process of getting veneers typically requires two or three appointments. During the first appointment, your dentist will prepare your teeth by removing a small amount of enamel. This is necessary to ensure that the veneers will fit properly and look natural.

After your teeth have been prepared, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth, which will be used to create your custom veneers. This process can take several days, so your dentist may place temporary veneers on your teeth in the meantime.

Once your veneers are ready, your dentist will check their fit and color to make sure they look natural. If everything looks good, your dentist will bond the veneers to your teeth using a special dental adhesive.

With proper care, veneers can last for many years. It's important to maintain good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing regularly, to keep your veneers in good condition.

In conclusion, dental veneers are a versatile and effective cosmetic dental treatment that can help improve the appearance of your smile. If you're interested in learning more about veneers, talk to your dentist to see if they are right for you.

Sedation Dentistry: How It Can Help You Overcome Dental Anxiety

Going to the dentist is an essential part of maintaining good oral health, but for some people, the thought of sitting in a dental chair can trigger feelings of fear and anxiety. Fortunately, sedation dentistry offers a solution for those who struggle with dental anxiety, allowing them to receive the dental care they need without fear or discomfort.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. There are different levels of sedation available, ranging from mild relaxation to complete unconsciousness, depending on the patient's needs and the type of procedure being performed. The most common types of sedation used in dentistry include:

• Nitrous oxide: Also known as laughing gas, this is a mild sedative that is inhaled through a mask placed over the nose. It produces a feeling of relaxation and euphoria, and the effects wear off quickly once the gas is turned off.
  
  
• Oral sedation: This involves taking a pill or liquid medication prior to the dental procedure to induce a state of relaxation. The medication can make patients drowsy, but they will remain conscious throughout the procedure.
  
  
• IV sedation: This is a deeper form of sedation administered through an intravenous line. Patients are still conscious, but they may have little memory of the procedure and feel groggy for several hours afterward.
  
  
• General anesthesia: This is the deepest form of sedation, in which patients are completely unconscious and unable to respond to stimuli. It is usually reserved for more complex procedures and is administered by a licensed anesthesiologist.

How Can Sedation Dentistry Help?

Sedation dentistry can benefit anyone who experiences fear or anxiety related to dental procedures, including those with:

• Dental phobia: This is an extreme fear of the dentist that can cause physical symptoms such as shaking, sweating, and nausea.
  
  
• Previous traumatic dental experiences: Negative experiences with dentistry can cause patients to avoid future dental appointments.
  
  
• Sensitive teeth or gag reflex: These issues can make dental procedures uncomfortable or even painful.
  
  
• Complex dental needs: Some procedures, such as wisdom teeth extraction or root canal therapy, can be lengthy and uncomfortable.

Sedation dentistry can help patients overcome their fear and anxiety, allowing them to receive the dental care they need to maintain good oral health. It can also help patients with sensitive teeth or gag reflexes feel more comfortable during procedures and can make complex procedures more tolerable.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Sedation dentistry is generally considered safe when administered by a trained and licensed dental professional. However, like any medical procedure, it does carry some risks. Patients should inform their dentist of any medical conditions or medications they are taking before undergoing sedation. In addition, they should have a responsible adult accompany them to the appointment and should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery for at least 24 hours afterward.

In conclusion, sedation dentistry is an excellent option for those who struggle with dental anxiety or other issues that make dental procedures uncomfortable or painful. By working with a trained and licensed dental professional, patients can safely and comfortably receive the dental care they need to maintain good oral health.

Sleep Apnea: Understanding the Condition and Its Treatment Options

Sleep apnea is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep, which can lead to fragmented sleep and a number of related health problems. If you think you might have sleep apnea, it's important to understand the condition and what you can do about it.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes a person to stop breathing for short periods of time during sleep. There are two main types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea. OSA is the more common type and is caused by a physical blockage in the airway, such as a collapsing of the soft tissue in the back of the throat. Central sleep apnea is less common and is caused by a problem with the brain's ability to send the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.

What are the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?

The symptoms of sleep apnea can vary from person to person, but common signs include:

• Loud snoring
• Choking or gasping during sleep
• Awakening with a headache
• Feeling excessively sleepy during the day
• Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
• Restless tossing and turning during sleep

How is Sleep Apnea Diagnosed?

Sleep apnea is diagnosed through a sleep study, which can be performed in a sleep center or at home with a portable monitor. During a sleep study, the patient is hooked up to sensors that monitor brain activity, eye movement, heart rate, and breathing patterns. The information gathered during the study is used to diagnose the type and severity of sleep apnea.

What are the Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea?

Treatment for sleep apnea varies depending on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Some of the most common treatments for sleep apnea include:

• Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy: CPAP is a device that delivers a continuous flow of air through a mask to keep the airway open during sleep.
  
  
• Lifestyle changes: Losing weight, avoiding alcohol and sedatives, and sleeping on your side can all help alleviate symptoms of sleep apnea.
  
  
• Oral appliances: These are custom-fitted devices that reposition the jaw and tongue to help maintain an open airway during sleep.
  
  
• Surgery: In severe cases of sleep apnea, surgery may be necessary to remove excess tissue from the airway or to repair structural abnormalities.

In conclusion, sleep apnea is a serious condition that can have significant impacts on your health and quality of life. If you think you may have sleep apnea, it's important to speak with your doctor to discuss your options for treatment. With the right treatment, you can get the restful sleep you need to feel your best.

Symptoms of TMJ

The symptoms of TMJ can range from mild to severe, and they may include:

• Pain or tenderness in the jaw, face, neck, or around the ear
• A popping or clicking sound when opening and closing the mouth
• Limited movement of the jaw or locking of the jaw in an open or closed position
• Headaches
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Dizziness
• Difficulty in chewing or biting
• Neck and shoulder pain
• Causes of TMJ

The exact cause of TMJ is not well understood, but it is believed to be the result of a combination of factors, including:

• Arthritis
• Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
• Stress
• Dislocation of the disc between the jawbone and the skull
• Trauma to the jaw or face
• Jaw misalignment
• Diagnosis and Treatment of TMJ

If you are experiencing symptoms of TMJ, it is important to seek the advice of a doctor or dentist. They may refer you to a specialist, such as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or a physical therapist, for a definitive diagnosis.

Solving the problem of bad breath

Bad breath – which is also known as halitosis – is a worrying problem that can also be embarrassing.

But there's no need to put up with it. If you suffer from bad breath, your dentist will be able to suggest a range of solutions.

Your dentist will be able to spot problems such as gum disease, dry mouth or other disorders. That's why its important to maintain good oral hygiene, schedule regular visits to the dentist and have professional cleaning.

Make sure you brush your teeth twice a day and clean between your teeth each day using floss or interdental cleaners. Don’t forget to brush your tongue, too!

If your dental check up shows that your mouth is healthy, your dentist may refer you to your family physician as sometimes bad breath can be a sign of other health problems.

If the odor is due to periodontal (gum) disease, sometimes professional periodontal cleaning is needed to remove the bacteria and plaque that accumulate. And your dentist may recommend a special antimicrobial mouth rinse.

Keeping your mouth healthy and stopping periodontal disease are essential to reducing bad breath.

So make sure you schedule regular dental visits for a professional cleaning and checkup.

Maintaining proper nutrition as an older adult

 Maintaining proper nutrition is important for everyone, young or old but many older adults find it difficult to eat a balanced diet.

They may avoid meats, raw vegetables and fresh fruits because they have trouble chewing or swallowing.

These problems can be caused by painful teeth, ill-fitting dentures, dry mouth or changes in facial muscles.

Others find their sense of taste has changed, sometimes due to a disease or certain medications.

As a result, older adults often have diets lacking in calcium, protein and other nutrients essential to dental and overall health.

A balanced diet has to be based on the five food groups:
– Milk and dairy products
– Breads and cereals
– Meats and dried beans
– Fruits
– Vegetables

Sometimes a multi-vitamin or mineral supplement will help but it’s best to use supplements only after discussion with your physician.

If your teeth are stopping you from eating the food you enjoy – or that you need for good health – your dentist will be able to help you find a solution.

How to take care of your teeth with braces

 Braces are orthodontic apparatus used to help fix crooked and crowded teeth.

While modern braces can be comfortable and inconspicuous, you may have to take extra steps to care for your teeth when wearing them.

Its important that you continue good oral hygiene practices while wearing braces.

You need to continue brushing regularly, following the approach suggested by your dentist, as well as flossing daily and making regular visits to the dentist.

People with braces should stick to a balanced diet and limit the number of snacks between meals.

Your dentist may suggest that you avoid certain foods that could interfere with braces or accidentally bend the wires. This can include nuts, popcorn, hard candy, ice and sticky foods such as chewing gum or caramel.

You can still continue to enjoy sports and other activities but a protective mouth guard is often recommended to reduce the risk of injury to the mouth or jaw. Your dentist will suggest an appropriate mouth guard when the braces are in place.

Braces can make a big difference to your smile and your future dental health. Modern technology and following good practices means you should be able to wear them with comfort and confidence.

How to make your smile brighter

 Your smile makes a huge difference to what people think about you and how you feel about yourself.

And there are many options available to help you improve the look and brightness of your smile, including:

In-office bleaching: During chair-side bleaching, the dentist will apply either a protective gel to your gums or a rubber shield to protect the oral soft tissues. A bleaching agent is then applied to the teeth, and a special light may be used to enhance the action of the agent.

At-home bleaching: There are several types of products available for use at home, which can either be dispensed by your dentist or purchased over-the-counter. These include peroxide bleaching solutions, which actually bleach the tooth enamel. Peroxide-containing whiteners typically come in a gel and are placed in a mouth guard.

Whitening toothpastes: All toothpastes help remove surface stain through the action of mild abrasives. “Whitening” toothpastes include special chemical or polishing agents that are more effective at removing stains. However, unlike bleaches, they don’t alter the intrinsic color of teeth.

Start by speaking to your dentist. He or she will tell you if whitening procedures would be effective for you as whiteners may not correct all types of discoloration.

Why a dental abscess should be treated quickly

 If you have any kind of swelling in your gum, it almost certainly indicates a serious infection that should be treated urgently.

Dental abscesses result from a bacterial infection in the teeth or gums.

For example, it may come from an untreated cavity. Cavities result when some of the bacteria in our mouths mix with sugars and starches in our diet to produce acid.

This acid attacks the hard enamel coating of our teeth and, as the cavity gets deeper, it eventually infects the nerve and blood supply of the tooth.

In some cases, a dental abscess is caused by an infection of the gum. Bone loss from gum disease can create a pocket between the tooth, gum and bone.

When bacteria and other debris get into this pocket, an abscess can form.

The treatment for an abscess depends on how severe the infection is.

If the abscess has been caused by decay, root canal treatment may be needed or the tooth may even have to be removed.

If the abscess has been caused by the gum, the gum will need deep cleaning or surgical treatment. Again the tooth may need to be removed.

Sometimes, a small incision may be made into the gum to drain the abscess. If this happens, antibiotics and pain medication may be used to relieve discomfort.

If you wait until the gum is severely swollen before seeking treatment, the situation can become very serious.

The abscess at this stage can prevent you breathing properly and can be life-threatenting.

So if you have any signs of swelling in your gum, contact your dentist immediately.

Is bottled or tap water better for your teeth?

With many people concerned about the taste and purity of tap water, the sales of bottled water have increased significantly in recent years.

Tap water goes through a process of purification designed to eliminate suspended materials, remove tastes and odors and kill microorganisms.

Fluoride is added to most tap water supplies with the aim of reducing cavities.

Fluoride becomes incorporated into our teeth as they develop and makes them more resistant to decay. It can reverse the progress of early cavities and reduce the need for dental treatment.

Mass water fluoridation has played an important role in reducing tooth decay.

The problem with bottled waters is that they usually don’t contain fluoride.

So there is a risk that drinking bottled water can increase the risk of cavities for some people.

If you drink a lot of bottled water, you can make up for this by using fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinse.

Your dentist may even suggest a fluoride supplement if they notice an increase in cavities.

What dentists are doing to improve services for older adults

As people are living longer and enjoying good health for many years, dentists are increasingly offering improved services to recognize the special needs of older adults.

This growing segment of the population is wearing fewer dentures and they are keeping their natural teeth longer. They are also concerned to maintain good health and a great smile for many years.

However, patients in this group sometimes require special consideration because reduced mobility and dexterity may make daily oral hygiene difficult.

And certain medical conditions and impairment may make them more anxious when visiting the dentist.

For example, problems with vision or hearing loss may cause worry. Always let the dentist and staff know if you have any concerns so that they can adjust their treatment and their pace to meet your needs.

Older patients can sometimes put up with problems such as toothaches, bleeding gums and clicking dentures because they are not aware of the wide range of treatments and techniques now available.

Dentists are increasingly sensitive to the special needs of and the importance of dental health in the older patient.

As many older patients are more health conscious than ever before, regular visits to the dentist ensure their oral health is an important part of their overall health.

How scaling and planing can help clean your teeth properly

Dental plaque is a film that builds up on your teeth and, if it is not removed through good oral hygiene, it can lead to tooth decay and gum problems.

Over time it can ultimately form a hard, rough sediment known as dental tartar or calculus, which attracts further plaque buildup.

Calculus has to be removed by a trained professional such as a hygienist or dentist.

They may do this by manual tooth scaling or using an ultrasonic device.

If the buildup is light or moderate, the dentist or hygienist may use manual scaling instruments of various shapes and sizes.

If the buildup of tartar and stains is heavy, an ultrasonic cleaner may be used. This may be followed by hand scaling.

Build up of plaque can cause inflammation of the gums leading to breakdown of the connection between the teeth and the supporting structures.

Root planing is a procedure to treat gum disease by thoroughly scaling the roots of teeth to establish a smooth, calculus-free surface.

This treatment may require local anesthesia to prevent pain. Thorough periodontal scaling customarily involves several dental visits

If conditions are more advanced, surgery may be needed for complete debridement of the roots to arrest the disease process.

Some people tend to have more buildup of calculus than others and some may be more prone to periodontal inflammation or the development of tooth decay.

It’s therefore important to follow your hygienist’s advivce on how often to return for regular cleanings – even if your insurance only covers two a year.

Things to look out for during pregnancy

Every woman wants to maintain their own health during pregnancy and to take whatever steps are necessary to give the baby the best possible start.

There are a few factors in your oral health to look out for during this time.

One consideration is that its common for pregnant women to have the urge to eat between meals. The risk is that frequent snacking on carbohydrate-containing foods can encourage tooth decay.

Bacteria in your mouth called plaque can convert the sugar and starch in your mouth into an acid that attacks tooth enamel. After repeated attacks, tooth decay can result.

So, when you need a snack, try to choose foods that are nutritious for you and your baby such as raw fruits and vegetables and dairy products.

During pregnancy, your bodys hormone levels rise considerably. Gum problems, such as gingivitis, are especially common during the second to eighth months of pregnancy. They may cause red, puffy or tender gums that bleed when you brush.

This is an exaggerated response to plaque caused by higher levels of progesterone in your system. Your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings at some stages to help you avoid problems.

Occasionally overgrowths of gum tissue, called pregnancy tumors, appear on the gums during the second trimester. These localized growths or swellings are usually found between the teeth and are thought to be related to excess plaque.

They bleed easily and are often surgically removed after the baby is born.

Studies indicate that pregnant women who have severe periodontal (gum) disease may be at increased risk for pre-term delivery, which in turn increases the risk of having a low-birth-weight baby.

So its particularly important to maintain good oral health during pregnancy. Make sure you clean your teeth carefully and visit your dentist regularly.

Dental plaque – what it is and how to avoid it

You’ve probably heard people talking about plaque and maybe you’ve some idea of what it is.

But its useful to know a bit more about it so that you can do whats necessary to minimize the risks.

Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and gums.

When you’ve eaten a meal or snack, the bacteria in plaque release acids that attack tooth enamel. When this happens regularly, the enamel can weaken. This eventually leads to tooth decay.

The food we eat often causes plaque bacteria to produce acids. So, if you eat a lot of snacks, your teeth may be suffering acid attacks all day.

If you don’t remove the plaque through effective daily brushing and cleaning between the teeth, it can eventually harden into calculus or tartar.

Another effect of plaque is that it also produces substances that irritate the gums, making them red and tender or causing them to bleed easily.

If you want to prevent tooth decay and gum disease, make sure you have a balanced diet and avoid having too many snacks between meals.

When you feel like a snack, go for foods such as raw vegetables, plain yogurt, cheese or a piece of fruit.

The keys to keeping your mouth healthy

A healthy mouth is a good indication of your overall health and helps you to keep a great smile and continue eating what you want for many years to come.

There are a few steps you can take to make sure your mouth is as healthy as possible:
– Brush your teeth twice a day using a good quality toothbrush
– Renew your toothbrush regularly. It will only keep your mouth healthy if the brush is in good condition and the bristles are strong. You should replace it at least every three or four months
– Clean between your teeth. Your toothbrush can’t reach everywhere and bacteria can linger between the teeth so it’s important to clean between them every day using floss or an interdental cleaner
– Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleaning and oral examinations

Your dentist will be able to give you tips on what other products you should consider to help improve your oral health.

For example, antimicrobial mouth rinses and toothpastes can reduce the germs in your mouth and reduce the risk of gum disease.

Also, fluoride mouth rinses can help reduce and prevent tooth decay. Studies have shown that using mouth rinses provides valuable protection over and above that provided by fluoride toothpaste alone.

Look out for the ADA seal when buying toothbrushes and other dental products. This is a sign that the product has met American Dental Association standards for safety and effectiveness.

Following these steps can help ensure that you continue to enjoy great oral health.

How cosmetic dentistry can change your smile – and your life

Modern cosmetic dentistry has created many opportunities that did not exist before for people to improve their appearance and change the way they feel about themselves.

Although cosmetic dentistry really did not exist a few yaears ago, it now attracts interest from a wide range of people.

There are few people who don’t want to improve their appearance by making their teeth straighter and whiter so that they look better when they smile.

New technology and procedures have created many more opportunities for dentists to help patients look better.

One of the most important opportunities for doing this is porcelain veneers.

These are custom-made wafers that the dentist places over the front of the teeth to repair damage and make them look better.

They can overcome many cosmetic dental problems such as whitening stained or discolored teeth, closing gaps between teeth or correcting a crooked smile without the need for braces.

They can also cover up chips and imperfections so that the smile looks much better.

Another important cosmetic trend is the increased use of white fillings.

White fillings now are more lifelike than ever and they last longer than previously.

They have become the material of choice for many dentists as they blend in with teeth and look better.

If you feel your smile is less than perfect, talk to your dentist about how it could be better.

How cancer treatment can affect your oral health

More than 1 million Americans are diagnosed with cancer each year and many of them will develop problems with their oral health as a result of their cancer treatment.

While it’s natural that they’ll be focused on their cancer treatment, it’s important not to overlook the importance of a dental examination as part of the process of maintaining overall health.

For example, radiation therapy of the head and neck area may lead to certain complications such as dry mouth, sensitive lesions in the oral cavity, hypersensitive teeth, rapid tooth decay and difficulty swallowing.

Chemotherapy and other medication can also have significant effects in the mouth.

To help prevent, minimize and manage such problems, the dentist and oncologist can work together – before and during cancer treatment.

Many medications lead to dry mouth, which can lead to a higher risk of gum disease and other problems.

The dentist may therefore recommend a saliva replacement, an artificial saliva that is available over-the-counter at pharmacies.

Frequent fluoride applications may also be recommended.
If you are receiving treatment, schedule regular screenings with your dentist and contact your dentist or physician immediately on any sign of mouth infection.

This may have serious implications for your overall health.

Your dentist and physician both want your treatment to be as safe and effective as possible.

Diabetes and your dental health: How your dentist can help

If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, it’s important that you let your dentist know so that they can give you the best care possible.

As more than 15 million Americans have diabetes, your dentist will be familiar with the issues and will give you the specialist care you need.

This is important because diabetes can lower your resistance to infection and slow the healing process.

It’s important to tell your dentist:

– If you have been diagnosed with .diabetes
– If the disease is under control
– If there has been any other change in your medical history
– Names of all prescription and over-the-counter drugs you are taking

The most common oral health problems associated with diabetes are:

– Tooth decay
– Periodontal (gum) disease
– Salivary gland dysfunction
– Fungal infections
– Infection and delayed healing
– Taste impairment

If you have regular dental checkups – and keep your dentist informed about your status – they’ll be able to help you reduce and manage these risks.