Here is the bad news, avoiding to replace that missing tooth has consequences, and it is not just cosmetic. All of your teeth play an important role in maintaining the health of your teeth and gums, and missing teeth can even impact your overall health.

Here are some of the reasons you should always see a dentist to replace missing teeth as soon as possible;

Teeth may shift and loosen; If you’re missing a tooth, there is risk possibility of teeth shifting. Teeth can drift out of place, leading to a change in your bite, potential gum disease and possible tooth decay.

Your face could change; The jawbone and soft tissues like the periodontal ligament support the roots of your teeth. Surprisingly, this support goes both ways: tooth roots stimulate the jawbone so it can continually repair itself. When a tooth is missing, the lack of jawbone stimulation can result in jawbone deterioration or resorption. The ADA states that even the loss of a back tooth can cause your mouth to shift, potentially making your face look older. Every aspect of your face is intertwined, so the loss of a tooth can cause your bone to deteriorate and muscles to droop over time.

It may affect your mental health; If you’ve ever had a missing tooth, you may remember how difficult it can be to chew with a hole in your smile. Missing teeth can even affect your speech and this can affect even your confidence. Your tooth replacement may take some getting used to, but this is temporary and far-preferable to the constant discomfort of a gap in your grin. Patients who have dental implants placed often speak of how they not only look natural but also feel like their real tooth.

Poor Nutrition; No matter how important health and nutrition are to you, you can easily get discouraged from eating healthy foods if they are difficult for you to chew. Missing teeth can drastically reduce the range of foods that you can eat comfortably. Examples of nutritious foods that can pose difficulty include red meat, fruits and vegetables with thick or fibrous skins, and nuts. Why would you compromise your quality of life for missing teeth, when Emerald Dental has specialists and dental surgeons that are at your disposal to ensure you have the most natural smile.

N/B: Every aspect of your face is intertwined, so the loss of a tooth can cause your bone to deteriorate and muscles to droop over time. Replacing the missing tooth helps to keep the others in place, ensuring your mouth stays healthy (with good oral care!) and your face doesn’t change dramatically.

We are now in Nairobi and Kitui, visit our facilities for an assessment with our periodontist. Be brave enough to take back your life, regain your confidence and quality of life, because you deserve to put your best SMILE forward.

Sources

https://www.drscottmurphy.com/what-are-the-consequences-of-not-replacing-missing-teeth

https://www.mouthhealthy.org/~/media/ADA/Publications/Files/ADA_PatientSmart_Tooth_Replacement.pdf?la=en

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What are Dental Bridges?

Bridges and crowns are fixed prosthetic devices that are cemented onto existing teeth or implants by a dentist. Crowns are used most commonly to entirely cover or “cap” a damaged tooth or cover an implant. Bridges are commonly used to cover a space if you’re missing one or more teeth. They are cemented to natural teeth or implants surrounding the space where the tooth once stood.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Bridges?

Bridges can:

• Restore your smile
• Restore the ability to properly chew and speak
• Maintain the shape of your face
• Distribute the forces in your bite properly by replacing missing teeth
• Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position

What Types of Dental Bridges Are Available?

There are three main types of dental bridges:

• Traditional bridges involve creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic in between. Traditional bridges are the most common type of bridge and are made of either porcelain fused to metal or ceramics.
• Cantilever bridges are used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth. This is not very common any more and is not recommended in the back of the mouth where it can put too much force on other teeth and damage them.
• Maryland bonded bridges (also called a resin-bonded bridge or a Maryland bridge) are made of porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, or plastic teeth and gums supported by a metal or porcelain framework. Metal or porcelain wings often on just one side of the bridge are bonded to your existing teeth.

How to care for Dental Bridges

While crowns and bridges can last a lifetime, they do sometimes come loose or fall out. The most important step you can take to ensure the longevity of your crown is to practice good oral hygiene.

• Keep your gums and teeth healthy by brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice a day and flossing daily
• See your dentist or hygienist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings
• To prevent damage to your new crown or bridge, avoid chewing hard foods, ice or other hard objects

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We recently discussed the psychological effects of missing teeth and the various methods we can go for to replace missing tooth/teeth. We went into details to discuss dentures. In this article we shall focus on dental implants. what are Dental Implants? Dental implants are replacement tooth roots. Implants provide a strong foundation for fixed (permanent) […]

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are replacement tooth roots. Implants provide a strong foundation for fixed (permanent) or removable replacement teeth that are made to match your natural teeth.  An implant doesn’t come loose like a denture can. Dental implants also benefit general oral health because they do not have to be anchored to other teeth, like bridges.

Oral Care Specifics to IMPLANTS

If you are considering implants, you must have healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant. If your bone is too thin or soft and unable to support an implant, you may require a bone graft. Or if there is not enough bone height in the upper jaw or the sinuses are too close to the jaw, you may require a sinus lift.

Types of Dental Implants

• Endosteal implants — these are surgically implanted directly into the jawbone. Once the surrounding gum tissue has healed, a second surgery is needed to connect a post to the original implant. Finally, an artificial tooth (or teeth) is attached to the post-individually, or grouped on a bridge or denture.
• Subperiosteal implants — these consist of a metal frame that is fitted onto the jawbone just below the gum tissue. As the gums heal, the frame becomes fixed to the jawbone. Posts, which are attached to the frame, protrude through the gums. As with endosteal implants, artificial teeth are then mounted to the posts.

What Are the Advantages of Dental Implants?

How to Care for Dental Implants?

Dental implants require the same care as real teeth, including brushing, flossing, rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash, and regular dental check-ups.

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Bridges and crowns are fixed prosthetic devices that are cemented onto existing teeth or implants by a dentist. Crowns are used most commonly to entirely cover or “cap” a damaged tooth or cover an implant. Bridges are commonly used to cover a space if you’re missing one or more teeth. They are cemented to natural teeth or implants surrounding the space where the tooth once stood.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Bridges?

Bridges can:

• Restore your smile
• Restore the ability to properly chew and speak
• Maintain the shape of your face
• Distribute the forces in your bite properly by replacing missing teeth
• Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position

How to care for Dental Bridges

While crowns and bridges can last a lifetime, they do sometimes come loose or fall out. The most important step you can take to ensure the longevity of your crown is to practice good oral hygiene.

• Keep your gums and teeth healthy by brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice a day and flossing daily
• See your dentist or hygienist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings
• To prevent damage to your new crown or bridge, avoid chewing hard foods, ice or other hard objects

What Types of Dental Bridges Are Available?

There are three main types of dental bridges:

• Traditional bridges involve creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic in between. Traditional bridges are the most common type of bridge and are made of either porcelain fused to metal or ceramics.
• Cantilever bridges are used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth. This is not very common any more and is not recommended in the back of the mouth where it can put too much force on other teeth and damage them.
• Maryland bonded bridges (also called a resin-bonded bridge or a Maryland bridge) are made of porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, or plastic teeth and gums supported by a metal or porcelain framework. Metal or porcelain wings often on just one side of the bridge are bonded to your existing teeth.

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Now that masks have become our new normal, Our Doctors would like you to be aware of smell that should not be treated normally. Especially if you can smell your breathe from within your mask and it is not pleasant. Sometimes the bad odor could be brought about by meals we consume but then again this could be the wake up call on other problems.

Bacteria drives odor, and if you’re smelling your breath, you may be starting a gum infection or maybe have a cavity and maybe have a tooth infection.

As much as you are protecting yourself from the virus, you should also make it a priority to maintain your oral hygiene by brushing and flossing.

Our Doctors urge you to stay as healthy as possible. You can use hydrogen peroxide as a rinse or use probiotic to help fight infection and viruses. Remember to drink lots of water which helps to fight bad breathe.

Remember to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth and flossing daily and report any unusual or bad smell to your dentist.

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What’s a Gummy Smile

It means that a large, abnormal portion of your gums are exposed when you smile. This excessive gum tissue is usually part of the upper jaw/upper lip area. There are many reasons a gummy smile can happen including; Genetics, poor oral hygiene, the use of drugs that cause hyper plastic effects, hormonal imbalances, hematological conditions, and sometimes even the way you age.

How to Fix a Gummy Smile

Gummy Smile Surgery

The goal of a gummy smile surgery is to reposition the gum line on the teeth to improve the appearance of your smile. This often requires a combination of cutting, reshaping and laser removal of excess gum tissue. Sometimes the underlying jaw bone requires reshaping, as well, to bring complete balance to your face.

It may be managed by an orthodontist, who specializes in straightening the teeth and jaw. They may use orthodontic appliances to push the teeth upward, or they may work with surgeons to surgically move the teeth upward, if necessary.

Ultimately, if you have a gummy smile that you would like treated, speak to your dentist. Depending on the cause, they will be able to advise you on the most appropriate treatment option.

Sources

https://aedit.com/concern/gummy-smile

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/basics/mouth-and-teeth-anatomy/3-treatment-options-for-a-gummy-smile

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The De-mineralization Process

The enamel of your teeth is made of a crystalline structure of minerals – primarily calcium, but also phosphorous and magnesium. It is the hardest substance in the human body, but it is not impervious. It can break down and lead to cavities, infection, and even the loss of a tooth. The degradation of minerals, or decay, stems from bacterial activity on the surface of the enamel. There is a clear sticky substance on teeth called plaque. It is a mixture of saliva, bacteria, and food particles left on teeth after each meal. The bacteria trapped in the sticky film feed on the sugars and starches, and produce an acid by product. These acids have the ability to degrade the strong structure of the enamel. The process starts with reducing the mineral content in the enamel and weakening of the outer layer. Eventually a hole (cavity) forms in the protective layer and infection can rapidly spread. This is why it is so important to know and recognize that initial stage of decay, and what you can do to prevent the problem from getting worse.

What are the Stages of Tooth Decay?

There are five key stages of dental decay, characterized by the symptoms exhibited. They include:

Stage 1: Initial Lesion

This is the earliest form of a cavity often categorized by a white or brown spot lesion on the surface of the enamel. This dull spot is where de-mineralization has taken place at a microscopic level. The tooth is still hard to the touch and the cavity is not yet visible on dental x-rays. Routine dental exams every six months are designed to catch this exact stage of decay. Then the dentist can take proactive steps towards remineralizing the surface of teeth and preventing decay from progressing any further. At this stage patients can repair the damage by limiting sugary foods, brushing with fluoride tooth paste after every meal, and flossing at least once a day.

Stage 2: Enamel Decay

If the process of tooth decay is allowed to continue, enamel will break down further. You may notice that a white spot on a tooth darkens to a brownish color.

As enamel is weakened, small holes in your teeth called cavities, or dental caries, can form. Cavities will need to be filled by your dentist.

Stage 3: Dentin Decay

Decay now progresses beyond the enamel and starts to infect the dentin. This layer of your tooth, though still made of minerals, is far more porous. This means decay progresses more quickly. The hole in the tooth gets bigger, faster. Levels of discomfort and sensitivity will intensify. The dentist can still use a filling to repair the damage, or larger cavities may require inlays or onlays, a more extensive restoration.

Stage 4: Pulpal Decay

Once decay works through the dentin it continues deeper into the tooth until it reaches the soft tissue, the pulp. This portion of the tooth is the nerve chamber and includes the blood vessels and nerves of the tooth. Because of bacteria, the pulp gets infected, pus begins to form, and the nerves and tissue begin to break down and die. This is a serious condition, and the only treatment option is root canal therapy. The dentist must go in, remove all the decayed pulp and clean out the innards all the way down into the root canals of the tooth. Then the dentist disinfects the inside of the tooth, fills it, and seals it off.

Stage 5: Formation of an Abscess

If patients do not take action at pulpal decay, the infection travels deeper into the tooth, all the way to the root tip. From there infection can spread to the bones and other supporting structures of teeth. So not only does the infected tooth die, but surrounding teeth could be at risk as well. Patients often experience severe pain, swelling, and inflammation along the infected side. Patients should deal with an abscessed tooth immediately. Otherwise infection can rapidly spread to the rest of the body and cause serious systematic problems. The dentist will perform a root canal or complete extraction depending on the severity of infection.

Cavities do not crop up overnight. Instead it takes days, weeks, and months of repeated exposure to sugars and acids to fully break down the enamel and lead to infection or decay. And fortunately there are several things patients can do to stall the progress of decay. Prevention starts with proper oral hygiene at home. It also includes regular visits to your dentist every six months. Then, if a patient notices a symptom linked to the stages of decay, he or she should seek treatment early, to stop the problem before it progresses into something more serious.

Sources

https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/tooth-decay-stages#pictures

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Dental anxiety is a term used to describe fear, anxiety or stress in a dental setting. Being scared to visit the dentist can result in delaying or avoiding dental treatment. 

Dental anxiety can be associated with certain triggers such as needles, drills or the dental setting in general. 

When dental anxiety is severe and results in irrational fear and complete avoidance of going to the dentist, it can be classified as a dental phobia. 

Some mental health conditions including generalized anxiety disorder, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, or a previous history of head and neck trauma can increase the risk of a person experiencing dental anxiety. This is according to https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au

According to https://www.webmd.com/oral-health -Dental phobia is a more serious condition than anxiety. It leaves people panic-stricken and terrified. People with dental phobia have an awareness that the fear is totally irrational, but are unable to do much about it. They exhibit classic avoidance behavior; that is, they will do everything possible to avoid going to the dentist. People with dental phobia usually go to the dentist only when forced to do so by extreme pain. Pathological anxiety or phobia may require psychiatric consultation in some case.

Signs and symptoms of dental anxiety

People with dental anxiety may experience:

• sweating
• racing heartbeat
• low blood pressure and possible fainting
• visible distress, crying or signs of panic 
• withdrawal, or using humor or aggression to mask anxiety

Some anxious patients will routinely miss dental appointments, and may find it difficult to undergo dental treatment regardless of whether it is simple or complex.

What Causes Dental Phobia and Anxiety?

There are many reasons why some people have dental phobia and anxiety. Some of the common reasons include:

• Fear of pain. Fear of pain is a very common reason for avoiding the dentist. This fear usually stems from an early dental experience that was unpleasant or painful or from dental “pain and horror” stories told by others. Thanks to the many advances in dentistry made over the years, most of today’s dental procedures are considerably less painful or even pain-free.
• Fear of injections or fear the injection won’t work. Many people are terrified of needles, especially when inserted into their mouth. Beyond this fear, others fear that the anesthesia hasn’t yet taken effect or wasn’t a large enough dose to eliminate any pain before the dental procedure begins.
• Fear of anesthetic side effects. Some people fear the potential side effects of anesthesia such as dizziness, feeling faint, or nausea. Others don’t like the numbness or “fat lip” associated with local anesthetics.
• Feelings of helplessness and loss of control. It’s common for people to feel these emotions considering the situation — sitting in a dental chair with your mouth wide open, unable to see what’s going on.
• Embarrassment and loss of personal space. Many people feel uncomfortable about the physical closeness of the dentist or hygienist to their face. Others may feel self-conscious about the appearance of their teeth or possible mouth odors.

Easing Dental Anxiety in Adults

The key to coping with dental anxiety is to discuss your fears with your dentist. Once your dentist knows what your fears are, he or she will be better able to work with you to determine the best ways to make you less anxious and more comfortable. If your dentist doesn’t take your fear seriously, find another dentist.

If lack of control is one of your main stressors, actively participating in a discussion with your dentist about your treatment can ease your tension. Ask your dentist to explain what’s happening at every stage of the procedure. This way you can mentally prepare for what’s to come. Another helpful strategy is to establish a signal — such as raising your hand — when you want the dentist to immediately stop. Use this signal whenever you are uncomfortable or simply need to catch your breath.

Our Doctors at Emerald Dental are very much aware you could be suffering from anxiety and therefore from professional experience they know how to ease your fears. Talk to the Doctors before any procedure, they certainly have dealt with so many patients like you and would definitely have ways of easing your pain.

Keep in mind that if a fear of the dentist keeps you from seeking treatment, your oral health may deteriorate over time.

Experience Tender, Loving, Care at our facility.

Source

https://www.dentalassociates.com/dental-topics

https://www.webmd.com/oral-health

https://www.dentalassociates.com/dental-topics/dental-anxiety

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Good Dental Habits for Mothers

Breastfeeding mothers are at an increased risk of tooth decay if they don’t brush and floss regularly and drink plenty of water. Cavity prevention is very important for new moms because it’s easy to transfer bacteria from a mother’s mouth to the baby’s mouth. Even something as simple as sharing a spoon could spread harmful bacteria from a cavity to the baby.

Nursing mothers should also watch out for teeth grinding, which can occur as a result of neck and facial tension after breastfeeding.

Breastfed Babies Can Still Get Cavities

This may sound as a surprise, but yes breastfed babies are also at risk of cavities. Although natural, breast milk, just like formula, contains sugar. That is why, breastfed or bottle fed, it’s important to care for your baby’s teeth from the start. A few days after birth, begin wiping your baby’s gums with a clean, moist gauze pad or washcloth every day. Then, brush her teeth twice a day as soon as that first tooth emerges.

Advise to breastfeeding mums

All moms need to stay hydrated, especially if breastfeeding. Failure may cause dry mouth, gum disease, or cavities and so many things.” Also remember to take good care of yourself. “If you’re not healthy, you will not have the time and the energy to make sure your children are also healthy.”

Sources

The post Breastfeeding and Dental Health appeared first on Emerald Dental Clinic Nairobi.

Poor oral hygiene leads to a host of serious medical issues like bone loss, cancers, strokes, and cardiovascular disease. That is why it is important to brush your teeth twice a day and floss regularly. That goes a long way when it comes to improving your oral health.

Regular brushing and flossing will not be enough and will only be effective with regular visits to the dentist at least twice a year. Not sure what all the fuss about dental cleaning is all about?

Why you should consider professional Dental Cleaning;

Prevents Cavities

One of the most significant benefits of dental cleaning is the fact that it prevents cavities. Tooth decay is induced by plaque build-up, which can attack tooth enamel and lead to cavities. Thus, removing plaque by brushing and flossing daily is more than necessary. And frequent dental cleanings done by a professional can offer you the best oral health. 

Prevents Tooth Loss

The principal cause of gum disease is plaque build-up. If left unattended, this build-up leads to tooth loss in adults. Still, if you want to decrease the chances of experiencing gum disease, it is always best to go for regular appointments at your dental clinic. Regular dental cleanings and good oral hygiene can protect your teeth and oral health.

Can Make Your Smile Beautiful

Another benefit of dental cleaning is the fact that it can remove stains and offer your teeth a freshly polished appearance. Also, it can lead to a whiter and brighter smile, as it can remove the side effects of foods or beverages that stain your teeth. 

Improves Your Health

In case you didn’t know already, regular dental cleaning can aid you to prevent several health problems. Studies show that dental cleaning can assist in lowering the risk of developing heart disease or diabetes. So, if you want to improve your overall health, you should start with a visit to your dental clinic.

Prevents Bad Breath

Everyone fears that moment when they start experiencing bad breath. But did you know that excellent oral health can avoid this problem? Well, besides brushing and flossing daily, you should have regular dental cleanings with your dentist. It is the best approach to keep your oral health up and prevent unwanted odors, as it will deal with bacteria in your mouth.

Professional dental cleanings give your dentist or hygienist an opportunity to compare the state of your oral health to that of previous visits. If you’re moving in the wrong direction, immediate intervention can put you back on track. Regular check-ups and dental cleanings help prevent and resolve persistent bad breath. To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist, Emerald Dental Surgery should be your best bet. We offer affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care

Sources

https://www.todaysdentistrysanjose.com/blog/7-reasons-a-dental-cleaning-is-necessary

https://www.dentalone-ga.com/blog/7-important-benefits-of-dental-cleanings

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