Month: July 2023

When it comes to our kids, we are always worried about whether we are using the right tools to clean their mouths. We must start our kids with excellent oral habits right from the time they are born. As infants, we use soft-bristled finger teeth cleaners, and as they grow, we start introducing toothpaste and toothbrushes for their dental regime.

When we start brushing our kids’ teeth, we always choose those cleaners that are designed for their age. We also know that electric toothbrushes perform better than normal ones as they can better clean our teeth, and we do not need to apply manual force.

A common question that parents always have is whether they can use electric toothbrushes for their kids, and if so, at what age should they start? To answer that question, let us learn more about these battery-operated brushes and when you can use them for your kids.

What are Electric Teeth Cleaners

Electric toothbrushes are powered by batteries and use oscillating movement to clean your teeth.

• With parental guidance, a battery-operated teeth cleaner can be a fantastic oral care tool.
• These brushes can remove plaque, bacteria, and food particles even from the area along the gumline.
• They are easy to use, and kids will surely enjoy cleaning their teeth with battery-powered brushes compared to manual ones.
• An electric toothbrush looks much like a manual one, with a base for holding the brush and bristles at the top. Their head is slightly smaller. 
• As dentists recommend replacing your manual toothbrush every few months, the same applies to electric ones. You would need to replace the head of an electric toothbrush whenever the bristles show signs of wear and tear.

When Can My Kid Use a Battery-Operated Toothbrush?

Parents often wonder if a battery-powered tooth cleaner is safe for their kids and worth the money.

• Considering the safety point, children three years and above can use these brushes, provided their parents give them proper supervision and guidance.
• Children below the age of three should use only manual brushes. For such young children, the gums are not fully developed, and their teeth are more sensitive so a battery-operated brush could be a little harsh for their dental structure.
• If your child finds it fun and likes to brush his teeth with an electric tool, it helps develop consistent brushing habits, and parents should encourage that.
• Just like manual brushes, these power brushes also have special designs for kids. When buying a battery-operated brush for your child, look for soft bristles that are not too aggressive on your little one’s teeth and gums and have an easy grip to suit kids’ small hands.
• Proper technique of brushing is vital to using a power brush as the electric brush on its own can not do all the work. You must show your child how to place the brush (making a forty-five-degree angle with the gum) and move it back and forth to cover all areas in the mouth. 
• You must replace the toothbrush head every three months, but if the child has any infection, cold, or flu, then throw the head immediately as it can harbor bacteria, especially if the child chews on the brush.

Benefits Of a Power Brush For Kids

Electric toothbrushes have significant benefits over manual ones. Though ADA (American Dental Association) states that both manual and electric brushes can effectively clean your child’s teeth, there are many reasons which can make power brushes more compelling for you. Some of the obvious benefits include:

• The brushing process becomes a fun activity for kids when they use electric toothbrushes. It improves their brushing habit and gives them the motivation to brush. Many companies that make power brushes for kids design them with fun colors and character-themed styles too. 
• Studies show that battery-powered brushes can consistently remove more plaque than manual ones. Some of the power brushes also have a two-minute timer in them so that the kid knows that s/he has to clean their teeth for that duration.
• Kids gain more confidence in their brushing skills with electric toothbrushes as it is easier to hold and position.
• In general, kids love the sensation of a battery-operated brush, and kids with limited mobility can benefit greatly from these brushes. A word of caution here is that some kids with sensory issues might find the sound and vibrations of the brush scary; hence parents must be in tune with their child’s special needs and issues and ensure their child is not intimidated by a power brush.

Some of the Downsides of Electric Toothbrushes

There are not many disadvantages of a power brush except for a few mentioned below:

• They are more costly, and you need to replace their heads as well periodically, like normal brushes.
• You need to charge them or replace their batteries from time to time.

An electric toothbrush is a great tool for cleaning kids’ teeth. You can use it for kids above the age of three with proper guidance and supervision. A power brush makes brushing time fun for kids and helps in inculcating a consistent oral care regime.

 

As an adult, deciding to fix your teeth and wear aligners is not an easy one. You want to choose something which will not disturb your social obligations, not come in the way of enjoying food, and the list goes on. You get down to researching all the different types of orthodontic treatment options and finally decide that Invisalign is the aptest procedure to go ahead with.

Invisalign suits many of us because of its invisible nature, i.e., it gels completely with your natural set of teeth with its clear trays, and no one can make out you are wearing braces. Another wonderful aspect of these clear aligners is that they are removable, and you can take them off when you eat, need to play sports, or do any other activity where braces can come in the way or get damaged.

But choosing Invisalign was just one step in the overall decision-making process. The right orthodontist for your Invisalign journey is vital to get the desired smile in the most effective manner. You would want to go for an orthodontist with a proven track record, as correction of malocclusion requires lots of time and money.

So what should one look for when choosing a doctor for Invisalign treatment? Let us find out all about that in this article.

Factors To Consider While Choosing an Invisalign Provider

Clear aligner therapy can be done only by licensed and experienced orthodontists. You might feel that choosing the cheapest alternative might be good enough, or you could go for “do-it-yourself” companies that provide Invisalign through the mail. Here are a few tips which can help you get the best solution in selecting an Invisalign provider:

• Select an orthodontist who is highly recommended and experienced in clear aligners treatment – Experience matters a lot when it comes to straightening teeth. Invisalign is something like a paintbrush, and many people can use the same paint but create different results. So an experienced person is much more effective in treating teeth with clear aligners and will give you results in a shorter time. To find a good orthodontist, first, create a list of all orthodontists in your area and then check their reviews online. You will find that many patients provide a detailed experience of their treatment online, and around eighty-seven percent of people trust online reviews as much as they trust reviews of their friends and family.
• Get referrals – Apart from doing your own online research, getting referrals from people you know is a great way to decide on the perfect orthodontist. Word of mouth matters a lot, so speak to patients who have availed services of the orthodontist that you have shortlisted. Invisalign is popular these days so you are sure to find someone who has gotten that treatment done. Try to get at least three to four recommendations, and then do your research. 
• Schedule a consultation – Once you have boiled down to a solid list of orthodontists, it’s time to meet them. You might find some consults are free while others might charge you. Despite the charges, meeting your orthodontist is an important step in the decision-making process. When you are at the premise, check the cleanliness of the place, get to know the waiting time, find out how well-equipped the waiting room is, and also be able to gauge the doctor’s manners. You must have a list of questions in hand when you meet the orthodontist. You should try to get as much information as possible, especially about their experience in Invisalign. You must ensure that the doctor takes time to clear all your doubts and is not hurrying you through the process. Meeting face-to-face is a big factor in zeroing in on your orthodontist.
• Costs comparison – If, even after meeting face to face, you are in a dilemma about the best orthodontist, comparing costs would give you that clarity. Dental work is quite expensive, and if you have a tight budget, the prices would be a major concern for you. Some providers might be lenient about monthly payments or have offers and discounts. You must mention your budget and get a quote when you meet the orthodontist.
• Certifications of the doctor – Invisalign is the buzz these days, and many doctors who are not qualified enough and lack credentials are trying to profit from the popularity of these clear aligners. Invisalign is not like other dental work and needs specific knowledge. So you can save a lot of time by researching all the required credentials of an orthodontist before fixing an appointment. An adequately trained provider in Invisalign would be the most apt for you.
• Customer service quality – When you reach out to the potential Invisalign provider, try to gauge the quality of their customer service. Check if they are polite to you on the phone and if they get back to you quickly. You would want to be with a provider whose customer care gives you time and patience and answers all your questions. If you are uncomfortable with the quality, you should look elsewhere.

When you are just starting to find an Invisalign provider, it might all seem overwhelming to you. But with the pointers mentioned in this article, you will be able to smoothly navigate the decision-making process and find the provider who will suit you in all respects.

Children are at high risk of developing bad breath and tooth decay due to their dietary habits. As parents, it is essential to educate and encourage them to adopt good oral hygiene practices. Fortunately, there are various treatments available to preserve their dental health, and one of them is dental sealants. 

What are dental sealants?

Dental sealants act as a protective barrier for molars, shielding them from harmful bacteria that can cause cavities. These thin coatings are applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth as part of preventive oral care. They are typically administered by oral healthcare professionals such as hygienists or dentists. 

Oral sealants are made from various materials by manufacturers, with medical-grade resins and glass ionomers being the two popular options. The materials create a smooth, transparent surface barrier that shields teeth from decay-causing bacteria and acidic erosion. This protection is especially crucial for children and teenagers.  

Popular preventative measures such as dental sealants are recommended for young patients, especially children and teenagers. It is advised to apply these sealants as soon as their permanent molars and premolars emerge, safeguarding their teeth during the cavity-prone years of ages 6 to 14. 

Protecting Your Child’s Molars: Understanding Their Structure and Importance

A child’s teeth are delicate compared to an adult’s teeth. By age seven, they usually have a complete set of teeth, including the molars, essential for proper chewing. The molars’ strong structure makes them ideal for crushing tough food. However, they are also prone to bacterial attacks, leading to cavities and decay.

Due to crushing stubborn food, molars require adequate care to prevent decay. Their rough surface makes them more susceptible to corrosion compared to other teeth. Regular brushing and flossing are crucial to maintaining oral health. However, dental sealants are an effective option for removing stubborn food particles that may evade removal.

Who is qualified to administer dental sealants? 

Experts like dentists and hygienists apply oral sealants. Teeth are cleaned and examined before the sealant is applied. A material is put on the tooth and then rinsed off, followed by the sealant material, which is hardened with a light. It is a painless procedure, but it requires the patient to stay still. 

5 Benefits of Dental Sealants for Children:

Dental sealants are a valuable preventive measure that can benefit individuals of all ages, but it is particularly crucial for children. Opting for molar sealants is a straightforward and affordable solution that offers numerous benefits for your child’s oral health. These include:

1. 1. Healthy molars: Dental sealants are an excellent way to maintain your child’s molars health. Since molars are crucial to oral functionality, they are susceptible to plaque and cavity buildup. Sealants protect them from food particles and bacteria that can cause decay. If any debris accumulates, a simple rinse with mouthwash easily removes it in the presence of sealants.
   2. Protects against dental cavities: The formation of plaque on a child’s teeth can lead to the development of cavities, which are far from being a pleasant experience. Thankfully, dental sealants offer a viable solution to prevent such issues and safeguard your child’s oral health from the potential stress and discomfort of treating cavities or tooth loss.
   3. Ensuring fresh breath for Your Child: Plaque accumulation doesn’t just lead to tooth decay but can also cause unpleasant odors in the mouth. This buildup emits a harsh smell that can embarrass your child, potentially affecting their self-esteem in social situations. Dental sealants prevent this issue by controlling plaque buildup. 
   4. Quick and painless: oral sealants are a simple and painless procedure that takes just a few minutes to apply. Even fidgety kids can handle it! Your dentist will usually apply sealants after regular cleaning. Once the sealants are in place, they’ll dry in just a few minutes, and your child can return to eating normally.

• Prolonged durability: Sealants provide long-lasting protection for teeth, particularly during the cavity-prone childhood years. With proper care and maintenance, sealants can endure for many years. Regular oral check-ups will ensure the sealants are in good condition, and the dentist will suggest any needed repairs or re-application. 

Dental sealants are a quick, painless, and effective way to protect your child’s molars from decay and bad breath. With proper care, they can last for many years, ensuring your child’s oral health during their most cavity-prone years. 

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) behaves like a sliding pivot, interfacing your jawbone with your skull. The structure of jaws is designed in a way that it has two joints on each side. This disorder is a temporomandibular issue or TMD that can cause pain in your jaw joint and the muscles controlling jaw development.

The specific reason for an individual’s TMJ problem is frequently challenging to understand. The pain caused due to this issue is a blend of factors, like hereditary qualities, joint pain, or jaw injury. Some people with jaw pain will often grind or grate their teeth, although there are people who constantly grind or grate their teeth but never develop this disorder.

The pain and uneasiness related to TMJ disorder are usually temporary and can be cured with a doctor’s consultation or nonsurgical medicines. The surgical process is the last option for the treatment of this disorder. It is used when conservative methods fail, and this option offers the best relief. 

Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

Signs and symptoms of TMJ disorder might include:

• Pain or uneasiness in your jaw
• Pain in either of the temporomandibular joints
• Unbearable pain in and around your ear
• Trouble biting or pain while biting
• Hurting facial pain
• Deformed facial structure
• Difficulty in speaking 
• Locking the joint makes it challenging to open or close your mouth.

TMJ disorder can likewise cause a clicking or grinding sensation when you open your mouth or bite. However, if there’s no pain or movement associated with development related to your jaw clicking, in that case, you don’t require treatment for a TMJ issue.

In minor cases, TMJ relief from discomfort is possible with nonsurgical treatment choices. The following are a few different ways you can assist with easing pain in your TMJ and side effects without a medical procedure:

• Proper positioning of your jaw

To reduce TMJ pain, limit wide jaw developments, like biting, yawning, singing, and shouting. Give the effort to keep your muscles as loose as could be expected.

• Right posture

Sitting in an unideal position for significant periods can make you feel more pain in your jaw.

• Get a good night’s sleep

Rest is important for good health. To assist with limiting TMJ pain, rest on your back and use cushions to help your neck. You need to avoid sleeping on your stomach, and if dozing on your side, don’t put your hand on your jaw.

• Use a hot or cold pack.

Ice helps reduce swelling and pain, while heat can increase blood flow and loosen jaw muscles. Applying a hot or ice pack can give instant relief and reduce the pain.

• Relief from stress

Try meditation techniques that help to release and loosen up your jaw. Yoga offers relief with less muscle pain, and other activities that relax your brain are also necessary to properly function facial muscles. 

However, it depends upon the situation. If you’ve had a TMJ disorder because of an impermanent time of pressure, your symptoms will probably reduce once the stress is not there. However, pain caused because of misalignment of teeth can continue the TMJ disorder if not cured within a proper time. 

Jaw pain may not be a serious cause, but it’s a matter of concern. If you have TMJ symptoms, consult your dentist and schedule an appointment for a thorough checkup. Proper treatment can assist you with dealing with the condition.

With proper medication, TMJ Disorder can be effectively treated. The critical step is seeing the medical consultation for an assessment, which helps reduce the effect before any harmful situation arises. 

Mainly there are different types of veneers used in the dental industry. They are made to fit over teeth to improve the appearance of a smile, and they can also change the shape of the tooth, size, color, and length. These cosmetic solutions are highly recommended for cosmetic dental procedures. 

Veneers are an excellent way to cover discolored, crooked, and damaged teeth. Even for tooth gaps and deep stains, they are the best option. Depending on your tooth color and desired outcomes, they are available in many shades. 

Most types of veneers are permanent and can not be removed after placement. Choosing a veneer depends on the budget, comfort level, and tooth condition. These also have subcategories, which help the patient select according to their need and requirement. 

Types Of Veneers And Their Advantages 

The main objective of veneers is to provide a natural-looking appearance to the teeth. In the procedure, the dentist bonds them directly onto the teeth. These are available in different kinds of material as well. Some of the common veneers used in dental procedures are:

• Porcelain Veneers

Patients choose these veneers for slight alterations or to change the teeth’ shape, size, and color. Some of its benefits are: 

1. They are thinner compared to other cosmetic solution
2. Give a natural appearance to the tooth
3. Durable in nature

Porcelain Veneers are designed in such a way that they do not cause any harm to gums or any other soft tissues. These are also used to resist the teeth from stains. 

• Composite Veneers

These are the alternative to porcelain veneers. They are made with a mixture of inorganic and organic materials. The bonding material used in the composite ones is the same as the tooth’s color. They are primarily used in the chipped area. Some of their advantages are:

1. Natural in appearance
2. Ability to mimic natural teeth
3. Budget-friendly

• Lumineers

They are ultra-thin or translucent veneers and replicate the shape and color of natural teeth. Some of their advantages are:

1. Require minimal tooth preparation
2. Do not require tooth reduction
3. Refurbish the old tooth

Why Do People Get Veneers?

People are more likely to have veneers to enhance the teeth’ appearance and make the crooked, broken, or stained teeth look new. They are the only solutions that give a natural look to the teeth. Some of the reasons to have them are:

• To change the length, shape, size, and color of the teeth
• To fix the broken, chipped, and crooked teeth
• To fix the white spots or stains on the teeth
• To cover up the discolored spots 

What To Tell a Dentist Before Choosing Veneers?

It is vital to consult with your dentist before choosing any veneer, as they suggest the appropriate one according to the condition. And it is also important to share certain information so that your dentist can tell whether you are suitable for the procedure. Some of the points are as follows.

• Budget 

It is essential to talk about your budget so that the dentist can tell you the right choice within that budget. Setting a budget is also the way to pick the right kind of veneer. 

• Issues

Discuss all the issues with your dentist. Explaining your dental needs before getting veneers is very important. 

• Side Effects

Ask about the side effects that veneers can cause and how to overcome that. Also, please discuss with your dentist the intensity of side effects, whether extreme or minimal. 

• Share Medical History

Do tell your dentist about your medical history before getting veneers. As it can also help the dentist to take precautions during the procedure. 

Before getting any veneer, consult your dentist for the best advice. Though various options are available, choosing the appropriate one is very important.