Preventive Dentistry
Why is preventive dentistry important? Read my patients statements that I have heard in my 17 years of working in the dental field and my responses to help them understand why Preventive Dentistry is really important.
Preventive Dentistry
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PREVENTIVE DENTISTRY

Over the last 17 years, working in the dental field, it amazes me that people still do not understand the importance of preventive dentistry.

As an office manager, I speak to patients daily whether on the phone or in person. Every day I hear the same thing from our patients.

"I don’t have insurance and can’t afford to come into the office every six months."

My response to this is… If you came in to our office on a preventive basis, we can evaluate the health of your teeth and gum tissue. We can find decay before it destroys more tooth structure.

"I’m not going to schedule now, it doesn’t hurt."

My response to this is… It doesn’t hurt now and that is a good thing. The reason it doesn’t hurt now, is that the decay is only in the enamel, if not treated it will spread into a tooth structure called dentin. Dentin is not as hard as enamel, therefore the decay will become rampant. Once the decay is into the dentin, that’s when it will hurt and more than likely will end up needing a root-canal and crown.

"If I need a root-canal and crown, I’ll just have it pulled."

My response to this is…. Keep in mind, when it is time to replace that missing tooth, with either a bridge or a dental implant in our office, your cost for replacing that tooth will be more expensive than a root-canal and crown.

"I don’t need to replace a missing tooth."

My response… No you don’t need to replace a missing tooth, but let me tell you the consequences that may arise. First, your teeth will shift, causing your bite to be off. Second, with your bite being off, this may cause TMJ problems. Third, opposing teeth will super-errupt, exposing dentin. Remember dentin is not as dense as enamel, being more sensitive and more likely to get decay. Fourth, as we age into our senior years, we need our teeth to chew our food. A lot of digestion problems arise because of missing teeth.

So I ask you, wouldn’t it be cheaper to come in for a check-up twice a year?

Coming up in the next article, "Periodontal Disease".

About the author:
Leigh Womble is the Office Manager for Lakeland Hills Dental
www.lakelandhillsdental.com
           By LEIGH WOMBLE
Published: 10/26/2006 

10 Things You Must Know About Teeth Whitening
Do you want whiter teeth? Maybe you have them already and want to make sure that they stay that way. Whatever the reason, here are 10 important things about teeth whitening that you should know.
1. There is a teeth whitening method out there that will work for you

Are you worried about stained or discolored teeth every time you smile? There is some good news. No matter your budget or your busy work schedule, you should be able to find a teeth whitening option that is a fit for you. From affordable, convenient, whitening strips to expensive dental whitening treatments, there is something out there for everyone. With just a small amount of research you should be able to find a method that fits your budget and lifestyle. Take the time…you will be glad you did.

2. Teeth whitening is worth the trouble

When you are confident that you have nice white teeth it will show through in your smile and make you appear confident and self-assured. Whiter teeth also make you look younger and minimize the appearance of facial wrinkles.A 1998 study by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry found that 85% of adults believe that an unattractive smile makes a person less appealing to the opposite sex. Teeth whitening goes a long way towards making sure that your not one of those people with an unattractive smile.

3. Teeth whitening is safe

The common methods of peroxide-based teeth whitening cannot damage your teeth. Some people may experience temporary side effects such as sensitive teeth or gum irritation. In most cases, gum irritation isn’t even related to the whitening formula, but instead is caused by a tray that doesn’t fit the mouth properly. What’s the bottom line? Teeth whitening is perfectly safe. In fact, the American Dental Association even has an official statement recognizing its safety and effectiveness.

4. You can minimize the side effects

As mentioned above, some people experience minor side effects from the tooth whitening process. If you experience tooth sensitivity, simply give it a break for a few days then start the treatments up again. If sensitivity persists, switch to a toothpaste that is made for sensitive teeth. These toothpastes contain ingredients that can help to soothe the nerve endings of your teeth. If the treatment involves a tray, wear it for shorter periods of time. It may take longer this way but you will end up with the same results.

5. You can get dental quality results at home

This may surprise you, but whether you use an at-home teeth whitening kit or go to the dentist you will generally end up with the same results. So why do people pay so much more to have their teeth professionally whitened by a dentist? Mostly because of the dramatic results they can see right away. At-home kits usually take a couple of weeks to get the results of one or two dental visits. The up-side for the kits is that they are much cheaper than a professional whitening done by the dentist.

6. Whitening doesn’t last forever

Generally, a teeth whitening will last for 6 months to a year. Of course this depends on the individual and the method of whitening that was used. For instance, an expensive dental office whitening will last longer than a cheaper method such as whitening strips. Many people feel that whitening kits with a custom mouth tray are the most cost effective way to keep teeth white because once you have the tray made you can simply purchase more gel at any time.

7. Whitening toothpastes have a misleading name

"Whitening" toothpastes, in most cases, do not contain peroxide which is the active ingredient for effective teeth whitening. Instead, they use mild abrasives and polishing agents to clean your teeth and help remove surface stains. Extra clean teeth can appear brighter, but whitening toothpastes will rarely whiten your teeth by more than a shade.

8. Watch out for the foods that stain

Heavily pigmented foods such as soy sauce, most varieties of berries, and cherries will stain teeth. Drinks such as coffee, colas and other dark soft drinks, teas and cranberry juice can also cause staining.

You can do a few things to keep these foods from staining your teeth such as brushing your teeth as soon as possible after eating staining foods. Don’t forget to use a straw for drinks that stain. The straw will keep the staining liquid from getting on the front teeth.

9. Brushing your teeth hard and often will not make your teeth whiter

Actually the opposite is true. Brushing too hard or using a hard bristled toothbrush can actually brush away the enamel of your teeth over time. The thinner your enamel gets, the more the second layer of the tooth shows through. Unfortunately the second layer, called the dentin layer, is a yellow or brownish color. Yellow showing through on your teeth is certainly not the desired result. So, if you want to keep your enamel, brush gently and with a soft bristled brush.

10. Watch out for dangerous "natural tooth whiteners"

There is a lot of bad information out there about teeth whitening. For instance, some people say that brushing your teeth with lemon juice or rubbing lemon peel across your front teeth is a great way to whiten your teeth. It may whiten your teeth, but it is also eats away the calcium in your teeth which weakens the teeth and makes them much more prone to decay. Keep an eye out for these home remedies, most of them will do more harm than good.

Chris Winters is a contributing writer for MakeMyTeethWhiter.com an informational resource on teeth whitening.

By Chris Winters
Published: 9/29/2006
 

Gold Tooth to Shine on your Face
Removable tooth caps are customized individually as per the size. These caps fit on top of your existing teeth that visibly covers the entire tooth, which throws a perception that you have a permanent gold tooth. The best part is when you can put the cap on and remove is when you feel like.

Removable gold tooth caps are designed by measuring your mouth’s impression. This impression is nothing but size of your mouth which is taken by placing a mouth mold impression kit in your mouth. This kit is made up of a material that creates an impression of your mouth. With this impression we will be able to create gold and platinum tooth for you that will be fixed in your mouth which will only come out if you remove it.

Its really great to have removable tooth caps as you can use them on your will. Also, if you have more than one set of removable tooth caps then you can use them varyingly on differently occasions. The popularity of gold tooth has increased in the last few years. It was called with various different names like gold caps, gold slugs, gold fronts etc. Whatever name you like, the bottom-line is that we have it and we can offer it you. Gold tooth is in fashion today and who doesn’t want to race ahead and make a fashion statement of their own.

For more information visit - gold sites

The author is a freelance writer and associated with http://www.gold-sites.info

By Tima Ashar
Published: 6/23/2006 

Dental Plans: How To Choose The Best Dental Insurance For You
Find out how to choose the best dental plan or insurance for you...
Dental Plans: How To Choose The Best Dental Insurance For You
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You understand that you need dental insurance. After all, it is an essential part of life, no different than any other medical coverage. And, despite the fact that you hate going to the dentist, you know that, one day, you may need more than a simple check-up. If an extensive amount of work is done, you need to find yourself covered. So, you need the right plan to suit your lifestyle. Often, businesses will cover dental insurance and offer plans to their employees. This is how the majority pays for their dental work so, below, we will explain the must common plans used to give you an idea of where to start:

One: direct reimbursement plan. The most favored plan, this lets employees be reimbursed for any money they spend on dental care. If you have anything from a check-up to an operation, you will pay for it, and then your employers will give the money back. This makes it a simple process, hence its popularity. Not all companies can afford to do this, however. Small businesses may not be able to match larger bills.

Two: indemnity plan. Smaller businesses are more likely to use this plan. With it, they will pay one hundred percent of cleanings amount, eighty percent for basic work like getting a cap and fifty percent for surgical procedures. The employee will then pay the rest. While some find this an unfair plan, smaller companies can not afford to pay one percent of every visit. They just do not have the funding.Still, unless a major procedure is being done, the employee will have to pay very little.

Three: managed care plan.This is often the most common, though not always the most favored plan. For businesses with little money to spend on dental insurance, this plan will suffice. Employees pay a co-payment. This, in turn, helps pay for procedures. The more involved the procedure, the higher the co-payment. This allows employers to pay for only some of the bill. Of course, this plan is not popular with most employees as they may end up paying the majority, but it must be understood that, for smaller businesses, dental insurance is more luxury than necessity.

These three plans are the most common found in the work place, and you will--in all likelihood--deal with them. If you have the fortune to work in a larger business, expect the first plan and, therefore, the best plan. Smaller companies will rely more on the other two. While all plans provide coverage, direct reimbursement provides the best and most wide-spread. Of course, because of this, it takes a company with a solid financial ground, Employers lose money with it. Your smaller businesses cannot afford to do that; they need every cent to pay the bills.

Do learn all you can about your company's care plan, however. Never simply sign anything without understanding what it offers and entails. Learn all you can about benefits and stipulations.

Richard Cussons is a prolific and diverse writer. You will find out more about dental plans at the Just Dental Plans website.

By Richard Cussons
Published: 6/3/2006
Dental Plans: How To Choose The Best Dental Insurance For You
Find out how to choose the best dental plan or insurance for you...
Dental Plans: How To Choose The Best Dental Insurance For You
Enlarge Image
You understand that you need dental insurance. After all, it is an essential part of life, no different than any other medical coverage. And, despite the fact that you hate going to the dentist, you know that, one day, you may need more than a simple check-up. If an extensive amount of work is done, you need to find yourself covered. So, you need the right plan to suit your lifestyle. Often, businesses will cover dental insurance and offer plans to their employees. This is how the majority pays for their dental work so, below, we will explain the must common plans used to give you an idea of where to start:

One: direct reimbursement plan. The most favored plan, this lets employees be reimbursed for any money they spend on dental care. If you have anything from a check-up to an operation, you will pay for it, and then your employers will give the money back. This makes it a simple process, hence its popularity. Not all companies can afford to do this, however. Small businesses may not be able to match larger bills.

Two: indemnity plan. Smaller businesses are more likely to use this plan. With it, they will pay one hundred percent of cleanings amount, eighty percent for basic work like getting a cap and fifty percent for surgical procedures. The employee will then pay the rest. While some find this an unfair plan, smaller companies can not afford to pay one percent of every visit. They just do not have the funding.Still, unless a major procedure is being done, the employee will have to pay very little.

Three: managed care plan.This is often the most common, though not always the most favored plan. For businesses with little money to spend on dental insurance, this plan will suffice. Employees pay a co-payment. This, in turn, helps pay for procedures. The more involved the procedure, the higher the co-payment. This allows employers to pay for only some of the bill. Of course, this plan is not popular with most employees as they may end up paying the majority, but it must be understood that, for smaller businesses, dental insurance is more luxury than necessity.

These three plans are the most common found in the work place, and you will--in all likelihood--deal with them. If you have the fortune to work in a larger business, expect the first plan and, therefore, the best plan. Smaller companies will rely more on the other two. While all plans provide coverage, direct reimbursement provides the best and most wide-spread. Of course, because of this, it takes a company with a solid financial ground, Employers lose money with it. Your smaller businesses cannot afford to do that; they need every cent to pay the bills.

Do learn all you can about your company's care plan, however. Never simply sign anything without understanding what it offers and entails. Learn all you can about benefits and stipulations.

Richard Cussons is a prolific and diverse writer. You will find out more about dental plans at the Just Dental Plans website.

By Richard Cussons
Published: 6/3/2006
 

 Home teeth whitening tips
Home teeth whitening tips
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About a decade ago, people knew only one way of getting their teeth whitened- that was through dental in-office whitening. It was a wearisome procedure but slowly when people started showing a compulsive concern of having a whiter set of teeth, the impulsion goaded a number of different bleaching formulas and teeth whitening kits started flooding the every day market.

Nowadays, dental in-office teeth whitening aren’t the only option. Numerous home teeth whitening kits are now dominating the market with unprecedented rate, as they are more beneficial products of teeth whitening treatments. Home teeth whitening system uses different teeth whitening kits like whitening strips, teeth whitening trays with whitening gels, and brush-on whitening.

Some of the basic home teeth whitening tip or methods of teeth whitening, used by people around the world are as follows:

1. Application of a paste of lemon juice and salt in the yellowish tint of the teeth is a wonderful way of eradicating that dull color of the teeth.

2. Rubbing the inner white part of an orange peel in the discolored teeth gives a lovely white shine.

3. Regular use of paste of bi-carbonate of soda with water removes the surface stain from the teeth.

4. Dried and powdered Bay leaves combined with dried orange peel also acts as an excellent whitener.

All these home teeth whitening methods when done regularly can give an excellent result.

Nowadays, people lack patience and time and so they frequent the chemist’s shop to purchase teeth whitening kits. These kits include whitening strips, whitening sprays, brush-on gels and whitening toothpastes. But before using such teeth whitening kits, one should follow certain guidelines to get a perfecta teeth whitening. He should use oxygenating toothpaste to brush the teeth because it contains substances that strengthen gums and prevent sensitivity from occurring in the teeth. Before purchasing teeth whitening kits containing bleaching gel, one should confirm that the formula has 21 percent concentration and is carbamide peroxide based. After using Home teeth whitening kits, one should rinse their mouth with an oxygenating oral wash to get that perfecta teeth whitening.

We have made the most comprehensive research to find the best teeth whitening products. Find it only on the Methods of teeth whitening resource. All about teeth whitening on LeanderNet - http://www.leandernet.com

By Oliver Turner
Published: 5/22/2006

A quick look at the methods of teeth whitening
A quick look at the methods of teeth whitening
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Tooth whitening, also called bleaching, is a process of lightening and removing stains from a tooth. This process bleaches the enamel and dentin, the principal mass of a tooth, and brightens the discolored teeth.

Dentists advise on the many methods of tooth whitening available in the market. Some of the methods of tooth whitening are the use of over-the-counter whitening systems; dentist dispensed at-home products, laser tooth whitening method; Loaded Tray Teeth Whitening method and in-office whitening methods. Dentists consider tooth bleaching using peroxide chemical as the best option for maximum whitening result.

The simple and straightforward method of tooth whitening is the use of over-the-counter topical teeth whitening products that includes whitening toothpastes and gels, whitening strips, a band aid containing peroxide to place directly on the teeth, are most effective among all other over-the-counter products.

In the Loaded Tray method of Tooth Whitening, dentists load prescribed bleaching or whitening gel Carbamide Peroxide inside the custom-made or ready-made tray and fix it with the gum. The chemical reacts with saliva to release Hydrogen Peroxide and substantial whitening is noticed after two to three weeks of wearing the tray.

In the Laser Teeth Whitening method, Carbamide Peroxide, a bleaching agent, is applied directly to the teeth together with laser to quickly activate the reaction between the teeth and the peroxide. This clinical treatment is costlier than all other methods of teeth whitening.

In the Blue Light Teeth Whitening method, a blue light is used to quickly activate the reaction between Hydrogen Peroxide and the teeth. The effect of this professional treatment lasts for several years. Users of this professional method of teeth whitening visualize the effect immediately after few clinical sitting with the dentist.

In Home-based methods of teeth whitening, home-based gels containing a solution of carbamide / hydrogen peroxide is used which give good result after prolonged usage.

People dedicated to a busy lifestyle should use professional methods of teeth whitening for perfecta teeth whitening, while others can patiently bleach at home using home-based methods.

We have made a research to find the best teeth whitening products. Find it only on the Methods of teeth whitening research. All about teeth whitening on LeanderNet - http://www.leandernet.com

By Oliver Turner
Published: 5/8/2006
 

Teeth whitening frequently asked questions
All you wanted to know about teeth whitening - Methods of tooth whitening, teeth whitening kits, laser tooth whitening and much more...
Teeth whitening frequently asked questions
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->What is tooth whitening?

Tooth whitening, also called bleaching, is a process of lightening and removing stains from a tooth. This process bleaches the enamel and dentin, the principal mass of a tooth, and brightens the discolored teeth.

-> What are the different methods of teeth whitening?

Some of the teeth whitening options are over-the-counter whitening systems; dentist dispensed at-home products, laser tooth whitening method; Loaded Tray Teeth Whitening method and in-office whitening methods.

-> Are the whitening effects permanent?

Whitening effects are never permanent.

-> How do the teeth whitening kits work?

The peroxide chemical is the main ingredient of every whitening product that bleaches the tooth enamel. About 10% carbamide peroxide are present in dentist dispensed products whereas 15 to 35 percent hydrogen peroxide is present in professionally applied tooth whitening products. When these products are used with laser, it speeds up the whitening process.

-> Who are not recommended to undergo teeth whitening?

Tooth whitening is not recommended for children below 16 and for lactating and pregnant women. Further, individuals with gum disease, worn enamel, cavities, and exposed roots should not undergo any tooth whitening procedure.

->How long does the methods of tooth whitening take?

In-office procedures require two or more visits to the dentist and each visit lasts for thirty minutes to one hour. Whereas the at-home products purchased from a dentist or medical store and over-the-counter products take several hours to four weeks to show the result.

-> What are the side effects of tooth whitening?

Some feel temporary discomfort, such as gum or tooth sensitivity. But these symptoms disappear within 1 to 3 days after the treatment is completed.

-> How much does the different methods of tooth whitening cost?

The charges vary with location, types of treatment and product used. But Laser or power whitening treatment is always expensive than professional bleaching and home based bleaching.

-> How to look after the teeth once they have been whitened?

One should eliminate those foods and drinks that stains the teeth and at the same time should stop smoking. He should brush his teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and visit the dentist at least once a year.

We have made a research to find the best teeth whitening products. Find it only on the Methods of teeth whitening research. All about teeth whitening on LeanderNet - http://www.leandernet.com

By Oliver Turner
Published: 5/3/2006 

Dental Hygiene – If I had known then what I know now….
Dental Hygiene – If I had known then what I know now….
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Hello all you wonderful people out there. Have you ever thought, "If I had known then what I know now…." or "If I had my life to live over again I would change…..."?

Actually there is not too much I, personally would have done differently. But there is definitely one health related subject I would like to have known more about and adhered to: early childhood hygiene practices.

I had problems with my teeth from the minute go. I had to have fillings, root canal work, tooth extractions. You name it, I had it. Even eating all those taffy apples and other candy (especially at Halloween) would have been alright if only I had known about and practiced proper (and I mean proper) gum and health hygiene. Call it hindsight.

Ironically, at this stage in my life I frantically take care of the few teeth I can still call my own. I brush my teeth (and gums) as soon as I get up in the morning and after every meal. I use mouthwash regularly. I go for biannual dental checkups. I make it a point to get to a dentist as soon as I suspect the slightest dental problem.

In our day and age anything can happen. My next statement may sound a little bizarre - like something out of science fiction - but so did reaching the moon fifty years ago. I visualize people in this lifetime cutting a third set of teeth. Wouldn’t that be something! So let’s not waste time. Let’s brush up on gum and mouth hygiene practices. Let’s promote dental hygiene whether through annual dental hygiene week for kids or dental hygiene shirts or whatever.

And don’t forget folks– keep smiling!

Our experts have executed a research to find the best dental plan. Find the results on Big discount dental plans . More web content on http://www.tigilet.com

By Oliver Turner
Published: 3/12/2006 

Teeth Whitening Products origins - Beverly Hills teeth whitening
Teeth whitening products have become one of the country’s obsessions for a beautiful smile like the movie stars.
Teeth Whitening Products origins - Beverly Hills teeth whitening
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Beverly Hills teeth whitening has become the nation’s way of dealing with the horrible consequence of yellow teeth. Teeth whitening products have arisen that use many different methods to achieve a brilliant and bright smile. Intelligent and science driven teeth whitening products and services have been created to alleviate the stress and low-esteem that can be caused from an unattractive or unhealthy looking smile.

The professional teeth whitening systems of Beverly Hills teeth whitening has pushed through amazing innovations in teeth whitening products. Teeth whitening gels and bleaching agents have been replaced with complex laser treatments to rid the mouth of horrible yellow teeth – teeth that scare dates or little children!

Bleaching teeth is the usual method of attack for teeth whitening products. The usage of peroxide or other oxygen based chemicals on the enamel of the teeth can be used to remove the appearance of yellow teeth by removing the build-up of many years of stains and aging of the teeth. Thank goodness you do not have to run to get Beverly Hills teeth whitening for good professional services. Now services to remove the look of yellow teeth can be found throughout the world.

Teeth whitening products are important for anyone who is tired of looking in the mirror at horrible and unattractive yellow teeth. Some procedures, such as laser teeth whitening, can be very expensive. These procedures have more immediate results by using a laser to increase the effectiveness of a tooth whitening gel placed over the teeth. While more expensive, the results of the teeth whitening products are even better when combined with the professional results from laser teeth whitening.

Besides Beverly Hills teeth whitening and other beauty treatments sought from teeth whitening products, the ability to smile at someone you care about without the worry and doubt of yellow teeth could be said to be worth almost any expense. Luckily, the science to achieve a healthy and bright smile has only increased with time to allow more people to reap the benefits and enjoy the look and feel of their beautiful teeth.

Find more about teeth whitening on Teeth whitening products. http://www.tigilet.com – Web content experts.

By Oliver Turner
Published: 1/25/2006