Sudden unexpected trips to the dentist are costly. Finding an NHS dentist is difficult, while the cost of going private can be high, the average private checkup costs £44. Is dental insurance or a dental plan the answer?
Private dental insurance contributes towards routine treatment, dental emergencies and serious dental problems. Most dental insurance allows you to choose NHS or private treatment, but dental plans only allow you to use your own dentist.
Under a dental plan, in return for annual or monthly payments, you get a care contract/maintenance plan. The contract is between you and your dentist for a variety of routine treatments and check ups. Any treatment not covered by the maintenance plan has to be paid for by you to the dentist.
Cost varies hugely depending on how wide a plan you choose and the state of your teeth. You must have a pre-enrolment assessment of your teeth. Individual dentists set their own premium for each patient. Plans are for people with sound teeth, who are prepared to invest in preventative treatment and remedial work.
Dental insurance can be paid annually or by monthly payments for selected individuals or all the family, and you can use any dentist. Some policies only cover the costs of NHS treatment. Others cover the costs of private preventative, minor and major restorative dental treatments. There may be cover for dental emergencies and accidents overseas, too.
Tesco offers two insurances. Premium Cover for a family of 2 adults and 2 children provides cover for routine and restorative treatment for £49.50 a month; while Core Cover only covers all NHS treatment and is under half that price.
Dipa Mistry of Lorica advises: “Before purchasing any dental insurance you need to look at the limits for each type of treatment and what exactly is covered.”
The trend with dental insurance is towards paying for preventative care and regular checkups.
Dental insurance may not be cheap, but dental costs keep rising. CIGNA recently increased the limits on its top level Diamond plan after recording an increase in the cost of claims for preventative visits in London.
Get brushing!
From: Money Market
Saturday, July 31, 2010
A gel to replace dental fillings? Not quite, one professor says
Tooth decay means a longer time in the dentist’s chair -- but what if there’s a way to get around that?
Scientists in France say they’ve developed a gel that can help decayed teeth grow back in just weeks, according to an article in the Daily Mail.
The gel works by prompting cells in teeth to start multiplying. Those cells form new tooth tissue that gradually replaces what has been lost to decay, the Daily Mail said.
The gel contains a hormone that a team of scientists at the National Institute for Health and Medical Research in Paris tested to see if it could stimulate tooth growth.
Their findings were published in the American Chemical Society journal.
But the publicity that has followed has “missed the point,” according to Dr. David Pashley, a professor at the Medical College of Georgia.
“It blew it out of proportion and said it’s the biggest thing since fluoride. Not really,” Pashley told the AJC.
Pashley said what the scientists are doing -- tissue engineering -- will eventually work, but the process will take some time. He doesn’t expect any sort of whiz-bang replacement for traditional dental fillings for another five or 10 years.
In short, Pashley said there’s not an easy fix for cavities, which happen when bacteria invade a tooth’s enamel and dentin.
“You can’t just squirt a gel or put something in a cavity and hope something works,” he said.
How would Pashley know? He has published more than 500 papers in peer-reviewed journals -- and about two-thirds of them deal with the structure and function of dentin, according to the Medical College of Georgia’s Web site.
From: AJC
Scientists in France say they’ve developed a gel that can help decayed teeth grow back in just weeks, according to an article in the Daily Mail.
The gel works by prompting cells in teeth to start multiplying. Those cells form new tooth tissue that gradually replaces what has been lost to decay, the Daily Mail said.
The gel contains a hormone that a team of scientists at the National Institute for Health and Medical Research in Paris tested to see if it could stimulate tooth growth.
Their findings were published in the American Chemical Society journal.
But the publicity that has followed has “missed the point,” according to Dr. David Pashley, a professor at the Medical College of Georgia.
“It blew it out of proportion and said it’s the biggest thing since fluoride. Not really,” Pashley told the AJC.
Pashley said what the scientists are doing -- tissue engineering -- will eventually work, but the process will take some time. He doesn’t expect any sort of whiz-bang replacement for traditional dental fillings for another five or 10 years.
In short, Pashley said there’s not an easy fix for cavities, which happen when bacteria invade a tooth’s enamel and dentin.
“You can’t just squirt a gel or put something in a cavity and hope something works,” he said.
How would Pashley know? He has published more than 500 papers in peer-reviewed journals -- and about two-thirds of them deal with the structure and function of dentin, according to the Medical College of Georgia’s Web site.
From: AJC
'Pay as you go' dental patients most likely to cancel check ups
A new survey reveals that patients visiting the dentist on a 'pay as you go 'basis are twice a likely to delay or cancel a routine check up compared to those on a monthy pay plan [1].
The YouGov poll was commissioned by dental patient payment plan providers, Denplan.
These results, as well as feedback from Denplan’s 6,500 member dentists, show a significant change in the habits of ‘pay as you go’ patients across the country.
This could be due to a combination of factors including the recession, the rising cost of dentistry and a reduction of disposable income, but it poses a significant threat to dental practice income and possible future business plans - such as the introduction of new decontamination units.
August and September are historically the quieter months for dental practices, but a bigger drop in ‘pay as you go’ patients may not be evident until it’s time to review your accounts at the end of the year.
This may not be something dentists have been particularly worried about in the past, but with more time and money being taken up with increased regulations, such as HTM 01-05 and the CQC registration, a decrease in patients could put practices in a difficult situation over the coming year.
Roger Matthews, Denplan’s chief dental officer, says: 'Here at Denplan we always strive to be at the forefront of industry knowledge and to pass that information onto you, the practice team. We all know there are big changes on the horizon for dentistry and this research shows that there are already signs of change from PFPI patients.
'A total review of your practice during the holidays is a good idea to ensure the ongoing success of your practice and should include a review of all the support you are receiving from your providers and how this can benefit both you and your patients'
If patients’ financial circumstances change, 57% are more likely to continue paying into a dental payment plan that is nationally branded [2]. These figures demonstrate an increasingly consumer driven society and that people trust and rely on a large brands, especially during more difficult economic times when.
Roger continues: 'By aiming to move some of your patients onto a dental payment plan, you can not only be assured of a regular income, but by choosing a plan with a recognised brand name you can also take advantage of a host of other value-added services designed to help your practice thrive.'
From: Dentistry.co.uk
The YouGov poll was commissioned by dental patient payment plan providers, Denplan.
These results, as well as feedback from Denplan’s 6,500 member dentists, show a significant change in the habits of ‘pay as you go’ patients across the country.
This could be due to a combination of factors including the recession, the rising cost of dentistry and a reduction of disposable income, but it poses a significant threat to dental practice income and possible future business plans - such as the introduction of new decontamination units.
August and September are historically the quieter months for dental practices, but a bigger drop in ‘pay as you go’ patients may not be evident until it’s time to review your accounts at the end of the year.
This may not be something dentists have been particularly worried about in the past, but with more time and money being taken up with increased regulations, such as HTM 01-05 and the CQC registration, a decrease in patients could put practices in a difficult situation over the coming year.
Roger Matthews, Denplan’s chief dental officer, says: 'Here at Denplan we always strive to be at the forefront of industry knowledge and to pass that information onto you, the practice team. We all know there are big changes on the horizon for dentistry and this research shows that there are already signs of change from PFPI patients.
'A total review of your practice during the holidays is a good idea to ensure the ongoing success of your practice and should include a review of all the support you are receiving from your providers and how this can benefit both you and your patients'
If patients’ financial circumstances change, 57% are more likely to continue paying into a dental payment plan that is nationally branded [2]. These figures demonstrate an increasingly consumer driven society and that people trust and rely on a large brands, especially during more difficult economic times when.
Roger continues: 'By aiming to move some of your patients onto a dental payment plan, you can not only be assured of a regular income, but by choosing a plan with a recognised brand name you can also take advantage of a host of other value-added services designed to help your practice thrive.'
From: Dentistry.co.uk
For Most, Implants Beat Dentures, but at a Price
MARK PANKO still gets riled when he recalls the two years he suffered with traditional dentures.
“They fell out when I talked,” Mr. Panko, 56, a small-business owner in Woodridge, Ill., recalled. “I couldn’t taste my food — in fact, I could hardly chew. It was the most miserable time of my entire life.”
Mr. Panko, who lost his teeth in his early 50s because of a hereditary form of periodontal disease, eventually replaced his dentures with something better: dental implants. While many people wear dentures without discomfort, implants are now considered the preferred treatment for replacing lost teeth, said Dr. Robert Pick, an associate professor of surgery at the Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University.
The procedure is straightforward. A surgeon places a titanium screw in the jaw bone, and prosthetic teeth are secured to the implant. They don’t wiggle or slip, as dentures can, and are healthier for the gums and bone. Most patients find implants easier to maintain than dentures.
“Best decision I ever made,” Mr. Panko said of his implants. “I could chew beer cans now.”
If only paying for them were so easy. For all their advantages, implants are expensive. Insurance coverage is usually minimal, and patients often are surprised by high out-of-pocket costs.
An implant to replace a single tooth can cost $3,000 to $4,500, depending on where you live. Implants to replace a full or partial set of teeth can run from $20,000 to as much as $45,000.
Why so much? Implants typically involve the work of both a surgeon and a dentist. Several office visits may be needed to put in the screws and to add the prosthetic teeth.
More dental insurance plans are covering the costs, but the annual reimbursement limit is typically $1,500, an amount that hasn’t changed in four decades. That may be enough to cover half the cost of a single implant; you will end up paying the rest.
Still, many patients may find it a worthwhile investment. Implants typically last a lifetime, with a failure rate of less than 5 percent.
Let’s say you lose one tooth. If you opt for a bridge, which costs almost as much as an implant but is more often covered by insurance, the dentist will grind down the two adjacent teeth to create a structure that secures the replacement tooth.
The ground teeth become more vulnerable to decay and nerve damage, and there’s a good chance you will require a root canal in the future, said Dr. Karl Gruendl, a dentist in Fenton, Mo., who advises insurance plans.
A study done for Washington Dental Service, the largest insurance carrier in Washington State, found that over a five-year period the maintenance costs for people with bridges were higher than for those who had implants.
“For a single tooth replacement, over the long run we think it’s more beneficial to get the implant,” said Dr. Ron Inge, dental director for Washington Dental Service. And that’s an insurance executive talking.
If you need to replace most or all of your teeth, dentures are clearly the cheaper alternative, costing around $2,500 for a set (upper and lower jaws). But the implants won’t move around, nor interfere with your sense of taste, as a denture might.
Implants also will help protect your bones over time. “The screw in your jawbone will trick the body into thinking you still have teeth,” said Dr. Ira Cheifetz, president of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. “The bone continues to grow and thrive.”
Implants aren’t appropriate for every patient, particularly those who smoke or already have substantial bone loss. If you are a candidate for the procedure, consider these cost-saving strategies.
YOUR PLAN BENEFITS If your dental insurance covers implants, bravo. If it does not, ask the carrier to give you an allowance toward what a bridge or conventional denture would have cost, Dr. Gruendl suggested.
See a dentist who belongs to your insurance network. Dental plans negotiate discounted rates with their network providers, which means the overall cost of the implant will be substantially less than the “retail” charge, said Evelyn Ireland, executive director of the National Association of Dental Plans.
How much less? Depending on the carrier, it might be as little as 5 percent of the standard price, or as high as 40 percent.
FINANCING OPTIONS Most dentists are willing to offer some kind of discount to patients who expect to have large bills. If you don’t have insurance or your plan doesn’t cover implants, ask your dentist for the rate provided to in-network insured patients.
Some dentists may let you pay them directly in installments. Mr. Panko, for example, is still paying off the $45,000 bill for the implants he got four years ago from Dr. Pick. Mr. Panko is pleased it worked out that way: “I have a longstanding relationship with my periodontist, and we worked out a payment plan.”
Many dentists also participate in financing programs, such as CareCredit and Wells Fargo Health Advantage, that let patients pay bills over time with no, or minimal, interest. With CareCredit, for instance, you pay no interest if you pay off your balance in full within two years. Ask your dentist about financing plans if you’re worried about paying your bills all at once.
AN ALTERNATIVE PROVIDER Dental schools sometimes have clinics where advanced students do implant procedures at reduced rates. Check the Web site of Oral Health America for help finding a clinic near you: oralhealthamerica.org.
START AN F.S.A. If you know you need one or more implants, but it’s not an emergency, fully fund your flexible spending account for next year. F.S.A.’s, offered by many employers, allow you to use pretax dollars to pay health care expenses. Depending on your tax bracket, pretax dollars can amount to an extra 20 percent to spend on the dental bill, compared to using taxed income.
From: New York Times
Paying for Dental Implants
Today’s Patient Money column focuses on dental implants, which are often a better option than dentures or other types of dental work for replacing lost teeth.
The procedure is straightforward. A surgeon places a titanium screw in the jaw bone, and prosthetic teeth are secured to the implant. They don’t wiggle or slip, as dentures can, and are healthier for the gums and bone. Most patients find implants easier to maintain than dentures.
The problem is that insurance plans typically don’t pay much toward the cost of dental implants.
From: New York Times
The procedure is straightforward. A surgeon places a titanium screw in the jaw bone, and prosthetic teeth are secured to the implant. They don’t wiggle or slip, as dentures can, and are healthier for the gums and bone. Most patients find implants easier to maintain than dentures.
The problem is that insurance plans typically don’t pay much toward the cost of dental implants.
From: New York Times
Monday, July 26, 2010
Fluoride in groundwater scourge of the dry zone
Access to clean water is every one's right. Water paradoxically, is a life saver as well as a killer. Millions of people mostly in the developing world die due to water-borne diseases. Clean water is therefore one of the prime necessities of life and every citizen of this country must have access to this precious commodity. While very strong emphasis is placed on pollution and contamination (both industrial and biological) of water bodies, far less emphasis has been placed on the quality of water in different terrains due to the natural chemical composition. Nearly 70 percent of the Sri Lankan population still depends on dug wells, deep wells, reservoirs, rivers and such water bodies for their water requirements. By far the majority of this 70 percent is from middle and low income groups and their general health is bound to be influenced by the quality of the water they drink.
As an example, a 65 year old person from a village who drinks the water he obtains from his own well in the garden, would have had his health influenced either beneficially or detrimentally depending on the chemical and biological quality of the water in his well. The dry zone of Sri Lanka has some unique features as far as the groundwater is concerned. Maps prepared jointly by the Institute of Fundamental Studies and the Department of Geology, University of Peradeniya with valuable support from the National Water Supply and Drainage Board have shown that the water quality of the dry zone is markedly different from that of the wet zone. The dry zone water generally tends to be higher in dissolved solids and hardness in addition to some other chemical parameters. Fluoride is particularly unique in that the dry zone has generally markedly enriched fluoride in the groundwater.
Fluoride is considered as the most reactive electronegative element of all the halides such as chloride, bromide and iodide. In the natural environment fluoride occurs as the fluoride ion. Fluorine, the element of fluoride, associates with many mineral deposits containing fluoride-bearing minerals such as fluorite, apatite and mica. Weathering, dissolution and other pedogenic processes can release fluoride from the rocks and minerals into the groundwater. The longer a rock stays in contact with the groundwater, the greater the dissolution and entry of fluoride into the water. Many deep wells therefore contain rather high quantities of fluoride. Even though fluoride is considered as an essential element for human health, especially for the strengthening of tooth enamel, excessive doses can be harmful. Among dental health concerns, dental fluorosis is the most common sign of excessive intake of fluoride rich drinking water. At the same time, low fluoride levels in the human body can lead to dental caries (decaying teeth and cavity formation). Presence of fluoride in water does not impart any colour, odour or taste. Therefore it acts as an invisible poison such as arsenic in groundwater.................
Read the rest of story here
As an example, a 65 year old person from a village who drinks the water he obtains from his own well in the garden, would have had his health influenced either beneficially or detrimentally depending on the chemical and biological quality of the water in his well. The dry zone of Sri Lanka has some unique features as far as the groundwater is concerned. Maps prepared jointly by the Institute of Fundamental Studies and the Department of Geology, University of Peradeniya with valuable support from the National Water Supply and Drainage Board have shown that the water quality of the dry zone is markedly different from that of the wet zone. The dry zone water generally tends to be higher in dissolved solids and hardness in addition to some other chemical parameters. Fluoride is particularly unique in that the dry zone has generally markedly enriched fluoride in the groundwater.
Fluoride is considered as the most reactive electronegative element of all the halides such as chloride, bromide and iodide. In the natural environment fluoride occurs as the fluoride ion. Fluorine, the element of fluoride, associates with many mineral deposits containing fluoride-bearing minerals such as fluorite, apatite and mica. Weathering, dissolution and other pedogenic processes can release fluoride from the rocks and minerals into the groundwater. The longer a rock stays in contact with the groundwater, the greater the dissolution and entry of fluoride into the water. Many deep wells therefore contain rather high quantities of fluoride. Even though fluoride is considered as an essential element for human health, especially for the strengthening of tooth enamel, excessive doses can be harmful. Among dental health concerns, dental fluorosis is the most common sign of excessive intake of fluoride rich drinking water. At the same time, low fluoride levels in the human body can lead to dental caries (decaying teeth and cavity formation). Presence of fluoride in water does not impart any colour, odour or taste. Therefore it acts as an invisible poison such as arsenic in groundwater.................
Read the rest of story here
Trends in dental care
Whitening
Whitening products take up half an aisle in some pharmacy departments, but dentists caution before whitening your teeth you may want to visit their offices.
"Generally it's best if teeth get cleaned first," said Dr. Pari Moazed, who works in Westminster.
Moazed offers professional whitening at her office where she can make custom trays for her clients.
Before embarking on a whitening routine, she said its best to get your teeth as clean as possible and to take care of any cavities prior to whitening so that the whitening will be as effective as possible.
Dr. Timothy Passarello, of Eldersburg, said not everyone is a good candidate for whitening, but in general it's not a bad thing.
Moazed, Passarello and Dr. E. Duston Mersinger, of Hampstead, agreed that the shade of your tooth does not determine its health and therefore whitening is not a substitute for brushing or flossing.
Veneers
Mersinger said Veneers, which are porcelain shells that are bonded to the front of the tooth, are helpful in many instances. The procedure is used to cover up a tooth that has bad coloration or to mask a gap. In order to put on the veneer, the dentist will shave off some of the enamel on the tooth to create an even surface.
While Dr. Passarello says this is a part of the business that might be trailing off with the economy, he said some cosmetic procedures are a great alternative.
He added that a patient avoiding orthodontics work by having veneers hide the natural crowding of their teeth may want to reconsider.
He said it may be worth the pain and time it takes to get orthodontics to fix the crowding, as opposed to getting veneers, which do not last a lifetime.
"Once [orthodontia] is done on your teeth, they are still your teeth," he said. But with the veneers, the enamel on your teeth does not grow back, he added.
Sedation Dentistry
For those who are apprehensive or fearful of the dentist, the lure of sedation dentistry might bring them in for a check up. Mersinger warns that you should make sure the dentist you see has certifications and you can check with the state Board of Dental Examiners.
"It's wonderful for the apprehensive, as long as it's administered properly," he said.
Post by Erica Kritt
Whitening products take up half an aisle in some pharmacy departments, but dentists caution before whitening your teeth you may want to visit their offices.
"Generally it's best if teeth get cleaned first," said Dr. Pari Moazed, who works in Westminster.
Moazed offers professional whitening at her office where she can make custom trays for her clients.
Before embarking on a whitening routine, she said its best to get your teeth as clean as possible and to take care of any cavities prior to whitening so that the whitening will be as effective as possible.
Dr. Timothy Passarello, of Eldersburg, said not everyone is a good candidate for whitening, but in general it's not a bad thing.
Moazed, Passarello and Dr. E. Duston Mersinger, of Hampstead, agreed that the shade of your tooth does not determine its health and therefore whitening is not a substitute for brushing or flossing.
Veneers
Mersinger said Veneers, which are porcelain shells that are bonded to the front of the tooth, are helpful in many instances. The procedure is used to cover up a tooth that has bad coloration or to mask a gap. In order to put on the veneer, the dentist will shave off some of the enamel on the tooth to create an even surface.
While Dr. Passarello says this is a part of the business that might be trailing off with the economy, he said some cosmetic procedures are a great alternative.
He added that a patient avoiding orthodontics work by having veneers hide the natural crowding of their teeth may want to reconsider.
He said it may be worth the pain and time it takes to get orthodontics to fix the crowding, as opposed to getting veneers, which do not last a lifetime.
"Once [orthodontia] is done on your teeth, they are still your teeth," he said. But with the veneers, the enamel on your teeth does not grow back, he added.
Sedation Dentistry
For those who are apprehensive or fearful of the dentist, the lure of sedation dentistry might bring them in for a check up. Mersinger warns that you should make sure the dentist you see has certifications and you can check with the state Board of Dental Examiners.
"It's wonderful for the apprehensive, as long as it's administered properly," he said.
Post by Erica Kritt
Oral health can reveal many early symptoms of other health problems
Dentists can tell a lot about your health by the condition of your teeth.
Research has shown that the mouth can reveal some of the first symptoms of heart disease, diabetes and osteoporosis.
Dr. Pari Moazed, a general dentist who practices in Westminster, said she has referred people to get checked for diabetes after treating their teeth. And she has had two patients come back with a positive diagnosis for the high blood glucose disease.
"The uncontrolled diabetic will bleed more. A diabetic is more prone to abscesses," she said.
According to the National Institutes of Health, high blood glucose, which is a direct problem with diabetics, can cause bacteria growth. This means the bacteria inside the mouth can cause the gums to get red, sore, swollen and bleed easily.
Read the rest of this story here .
Five Reasons That Regular Dental Cleanings Are Important
Many folks find going to the dentist once or twice a year extremely hard and bothersome, and also they think routine flossing and also brushing of the teeth will be adequate. However, in order to be safe from costly and painful dental problems, regular dental cleanings are necessary. Irrespective of how very carefully you clean your mouth, or you use the most high-priced of products such as tongue cleaners, oral irrigators, waxed dental floss, electric toothbrush, dental chewing gums, mouthwash, fluoride toothpastes, etc. you need to have regular dental cleanings from a dentist.
Here, I will explain you 5 reasons why one should go for regular dental cleanings to their dentist. To avoid pricey dental treatments and painful process of treatment is the first reason. Even if in case you don’t feel the ache or toothache of the big dental problems, your teeth need to be checked by a dentist, to ensure that the person could save them while they are effortlessly treatable. These conditions can get worse if you ignore it and you will end up with gum surgery, tooth extraction and root canal treatments.
The next good reason for having regular dental cleanings is to take good care of your overall health. Oral health is not only the care of your mouth. Many recent researches have shown that the higher stage of periodontitis (gum disease) is connected with health problems such as bacterial pneumonia, high blood sugar level, pancreatic cancer, and even heart disease. Moreover, bad condition of your oral health can be very dangerous for pregnant women, as researches show that it can cause low birth weight and premature birth.
The third good reason for getting regular dental cleanings is to be tested from the oral cancer. As per Oral Care Foundation; it is possible to identify the deadly disease cancer just by screening. It only takes a matter of five minutes in which usually neck, head, and also oral cancer examinations are taken. In order to avoid oral cancer, regular check-up campaigns are set up by the dentists to check their patients. This is one of the greatest factors for getting regular dental cleanings.
Fourth reason for regular dental cleaning is that you improve your self-confidence and personality . Having regular dental cleanings from your dentist not merely gives you with a fresh breath however also offers the surety of a glowing, attractive, and also assured smile. Moreover, no matter what costly products you use, you cannot have those white teeth which you have dreamed of. Regular dental cleanings will as well allow in removing the teeth stains you have obtained by the use of tobacco, tea, or coffee.
Take maximum advantage of dental insurance plan, and this is the fifth reason for regular dental cleaning. Every person among us wants to save cash from the pricey and also sore dental problems, however it is more helpful to make the use of those available resources that most of the others cannot. Your dental insurance plan can help you considerably. All the dental insurance plans present you, with every six months, your dental cleanings, and also checkups. This is why; it is possible to afford dental care plans easily.
From: Lon's Article Directory
Here, I will explain you 5 reasons why one should go for regular dental cleanings to their dentist. To avoid pricey dental treatments and painful process of treatment is the first reason. Even if in case you don’t feel the ache or toothache of the big dental problems, your teeth need to be checked by a dentist, to ensure that the person could save them while they are effortlessly treatable. These conditions can get worse if you ignore it and you will end up with gum surgery, tooth extraction and root canal treatments.
The next good reason for having regular dental cleanings is to take good care of your overall health. Oral health is not only the care of your mouth. Many recent researches have shown that the higher stage of periodontitis (gum disease) is connected with health problems such as bacterial pneumonia, high blood sugar level, pancreatic cancer, and even heart disease. Moreover, bad condition of your oral health can be very dangerous for pregnant women, as researches show that it can cause low birth weight and premature birth.
The third good reason for getting regular dental cleanings is to be tested from the oral cancer. As per Oral Care Foundation; it is possible to identify the deadly disease cancer just by screening. It only takes a matter of five minutes in which usually neck, head, and also oral cancer examinations are taken. In order to avoid oral cancer, regular check-up campaigns are set up by the dentists to check their patients. This is one of the greatest factors for getting regular dental cleanings.
Fourth reason for regular dental cleaning is that you improve your self-confidence and personality . Having regular dental cleanings from your dentist not merely gives you with a fresh breath however also offers the surety of a glowing, attractive, and also assured smile. Moreover, no matter what costly products you use, you cannot have those white teeth which you have dreamed of. Regular dental cleanings will as well allow in removing the teeth stains you have obtained by the use of tobacco, tea, or coffee.
Take maximum advantage of dental insurance plan, and this is the fifth reason for regular dental cleaning. Every person among us wants to save cash from the pricey and also sore dental problems, however it is more helpful to make the use of those available resources that most of the others cannot. Your dental insurance plan can help you considerably. All the dental insurance plans present you, with every six months, your dental cleanings, and also checkups. This is why; it is possible to afford dental care plans easily.
From: Lon's Article Directory
Smiling with relief: I finally have my adult teeth - at the age of 28
The Tooth Fairy failed to show up for the young Emily Cheeseman - but she is happy to finally have a full set of adult teeth at the age of 28.
Although she had a full set of baby teeth as a youngster, six of them failed to fall out as she grew older. This was because a rare medical condition called hypodontia that meant she was missing the adult teeth needed to replace them.
Now after seven years of dental treatment Emily has had her milk teeth replaced with adult-size implants.
'It's wonderful to have a full set of teeth at last,' said Emily, a travel agent from Tunbridge Wells, Kent.
'They took out my baby teeth under general anaesthetic so I didn't get to keep them and put them under my pillow.'
Emily's four upper front and two lower back teeth were half the size of her adult ones, and fragile by comparison.
She was self-conscious, rarely smiled, talked with a hand over her mouth and had great difficulty eating.
When she got to 21 one of the milk teeth chipped and needed filing down. She became worried she could lose them and embarked on years of dental treatment.
'It was very hard at first when I had the teeth removed and I felt very self-conscious. I would avoid people,' she said.
'It was a very hard time. Now I can smile broadly, which I never could do before.'
Emily had the teeth taken out at hospital in Birmingham, then needed braces to widen the gaps for adult-size teeth.
She said: 'I lived with milk teeth alongside my adult teeth until I was 22, when I decided that if I didn't opt for some sort of solution I would have to deal at some point with my baby teeth perishing, as they're not designed for lifelong use.
'I qualified for dental treatment on the NHS to have them removed and preparatory work done on my gums to create 'pegs' for implants to be secured to, but then I went travelling to New Zealand and on my return the NHS would not fund the further work, so I had to fund the rest myself.
'I had to undergo orthodontic treatment first to get all the teeth aligned correctly so that the implants would sit properly next to my other teeth, and also to create the right sized gap for the new teeth to sit in. I also had some whitening treatment and permanent dental implants.
'I used to have to use temporary ones, which were a real pain as they would often come loose and come out - I even lost them once while travelling! I also lost weight as eating certain foods became difficult.'
Oliver Harman, lead clinician at The Harman Clinic in Tunbridge Wells, where Emily was treated, said: 'Hypodontia is rare and is thought to be linked to genetic factors, although the actual cause of the condition is unknown.
'Although many patients can live with the look of their milk teeth, the reality is they are just not strong enough to stand the test of time. Dental implants have advanced which mean that strong teeth can be implanted which will last a lifetime and look real.
'Emily feels she's been given a new lease of life and bags of confidence as a result of her treatment. Emily came to see us following 18 months of Invisalign braces to align her lower teeth and open space for implants to replace her two upper canine teeth.
'The lower teeth had been moved very successfully but unfortunately, owing to her lack of jaw width and the splayed roots of adjacent teeth it had proved technically impossible to create enough space for her implants.
'Her general dentist was therefore unable to help her and so we were able to devise a plan to remove the old ones and replace them with pairs of teeth fitted to each implant post.'
From: Daily Mail
Friday, July 23, 2010
Underweight kids have higher tooth decay risk
Underweight children are at three times' greater risk of tooth decay as normal weight children, according to a new Swedish study released on Thursday.
The study made at Malmö University examined the dental health of more than 900 five-year olds in central Skåne through records from child health and public dental clinics.
One reason cited by the researchers as to why underweight children are at a high risk for tooth decay can be due to parental concerns about their child's weight development. As a consequence, they allow their children to eat what they want at irregular hours, resulting in the diet that contains more sugar.
Previous studies have shown that overweight children have an increased risk of tooth decay, but in the current study, the scientists did not see the link.
According to Lars Matsson, professor of paedodontics at the Faculty of Odontology at the university, the research results were surprising. The study was initially undertaken to examine overweight children, but it was the underweight children who turned out to have the most tooth decay.
"We have found a risk group that we did not recognise before," said Matsson. "In dental care, we must be more attentive to these children, examine them carefully and inform parents so they can give them a good and healthy diet. Child care centres must also pay attention and help these children."
The study used height and weight data from child health care authorities to calculate the children's BMI, or body mass index, which determines health status and the chances of a long life. These were then compared with the the tooth decay data from public dental clinics.
"The underweight children had significantly more tooth decay than children of normal weight," said Matsson. "Among these little kids, we know that there are some who are picky and may not eat as much and parents become anxious. As such, they can eat whenever they want instead and choose what they want. Often, it is sweet."
A modified diet pattern is key to improving dental health, he said.
"It's the same old," said Matsson. "We want the parents to give their children three main objectives for the day and snacks that consist of sandwiches and fruit rather than candy and ice cream. Sweet juice should also be avoided. Milk and sandwiches are better than sweets."
From: The Local
Why you need an affordable family dental plan
An affordable dental plan is important. First, it is obvious as to why people need one that is not expensive. Many people do not have a lot of extra money to spend nowadays, and they cannot afford an expensive plan. Some reasons why it is important to get such a plan include the following.
Dental costs can be expensive
It can be very expensive to get dental work done. Dental work can cost in the hundreds and even thousands of dollars. Insurance can cover a great deal of this cost. With many dental insurance plans you pay nothing for your regular cleanings. You may otherwise pay $100 or more for these. Multiply that by twice a year and then for every family member. Add in the cost of x-rays and any other procedures that you have and you can save quite a bit of money. You do not want to have to make a decision about whether to lose a tooth or pay more money than you can afford.
Your family may not go to the dentist as often when you are not insured
Unfortunately, a lot of people do not realize how important good dental care is. Not only can it help your teeth, but a dental problem such as an infection can affect your body as a whole. Without insurance, some people may just put off such work for themselves or their families. When people let their teeth go, they may end up missing something that is small that could be easily repaired like a cavity. When dental problems are allowed to fester they often become much worse and require a lot more work. It could even get to the point where the tooth needs to be pulled. With dental insurance you may be more likely to get proper preventative care for you and your family. This is very important for children. You do not want them to have problems at such a young age. Also, even if you go for your regular checkups, you may not be able to afford dental work that you might need such as a crown or a root canal.
There are many affordable dental plans out there. Oftentimes the best deal is to get one through your job, but there are private companies as well. For the above reasons, you should try to find such a plan for yourself and your family.
From : Helium
Dental costs can be expensive
It can be very expensive to get dental work done. Dental work can cost in the hundreds and even thousands of dollars. Insurance can cover a great deal of this cost. With many dental insurance plans you pay nothing for your regular cleanings. You may otherwise pay $100 or more for these. Multiply that by twice a year and then for every family member. Add in the cost of x-rays and any other procedures that you have and you can save quite a bit of money. You do not want to have to make a decision about whether to lose a tooth or pay more money than you can afford.
Your family may not go to the dentist as often when you are not insured
Unfortunately, a lot of people do not realize how important good dental care is. Not only can it help your teeth, but a dental problem such as an infection can affect your body as a whole. Without insurance, some people may just put off such work for themselves or their families. When people let their teeth go, they may end up missing something that is small that could be easily repaired like a cavity. When dental problems are allowed to fester they often become much worse and require a lot more work. It could even get to the point where the tooth needs to be pulled. With dental insurance you may be more likely to get proper preventative care for you and your family. This is very important for children. You do not want them to have problems at such a young age. Also, even if you go for your regular checkups, you may not be able to afford dental work that you might need such as a crown or a root canal.
There are many affordable dental plans out there. Oftentimes the best deal is to get one through your job, but there are private companies as well. For the above reasons, you should try to find such a plan for yourself and your family.
From : Helium
One in three Plymouth five year olds have tooth decay, according to new report
ONE in three Plymouth five-year-olds have suffered from tooth decay, a shocking new report reveals.
City health experts said the scope of children's dental problems has improved but there is an urgent need for further action.
Outlining a citywide plan to tackle the issue, they said poor diet and 'sugar shock' from sweets are the number one culprits.
Plymouth's NHS Oral Health Strategy outlines a range of schemes including treating children's teeth with fluoride varnish, promoting oral health and improving access to dentists.
The latest figures show that around 7,500 Plymouth people are on the waiting list to access an NHS dentist regularly — with patients who registered in September currently being allocated a place.
The dental strategy states 29.1 per cent of five-year-olds surveyed in 2009 had suffered from obvious tooth decay — with only 11 per cent of decayed teeth filled.
It is less than the national average of 31 per cent, and significantly better than Plymouth's 2000 figure of 41.7 per cent.
Dr Gill Jones, Plymouth consultant in dental public health, said: "Things have got better — the city is doing well in many areas — but there's an urgent need for further improvement.
"This strategy is the ideal way forward, with prevention the key.
"Sugar is absolutely the culprit. Sugar at mealtimes is fine, but it's snacking in between when the damage is done.
"We have to help parents understand that sugar shock to teeth needs to be reduced.
"A lot of parents don't know how to clean their children's teeth properly — to clean them well twice a day.
"And we've got to get children used to coming into the dentist, giving them fluoride and brushing advice. It's about raising awareness."
The plans specifically target the city's poorer areas — such as the city centre, Stonehouse, Devonport, Stoke and Morice Town.
Children's tooth decay is up to 50 per cent worse in the most deprived areas than the least.
Plans include painting three to five year olds' teeth with fluoride varnish, promoting the use of fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash among all ages, smoking prevention, wider health education programmes and increasing access to dentists.
Fluoride compounds are used to strengthen teeth.
The report states that 55 per cent of Plymouth's population have accessed a dentist in the past two years — compared to 54 per cent across the South West and 55 per cent nationally.
The target is to increase the Plymouth figure to 65 per cent by March 2011.
Dr Jones said: "We would always like to have more but the dentists we have are excellent and work very hard to provide every bit of care they can.
"What we have to do is continue our emergency urgent care so nobody is in pain and move patients through the system more quickly.
"The dental school is helping with that by providing thousands of appointments."
She said schemes run by the Peninsula Dental School's Devonport facility, of which she is director of community-based dentistry, are already reaching out to more residents.
To find a local NHS dental practice, there are 28 in Plymouth, go to www.nhs.uk or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.
Free dental treatment application available
As health-care costs continue to soar, more and more Americans are stepping up to actively manage their health.
They are hunting down information, storing it, using it – and doing it all on the go. To help, Dental Optimizer has announced the launch of a free dental treatment application that lets Apple iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad users get a better handle on their oral health.
The dental treatment application, available from the Apple iTunes App store, builds on the popularity of dentaloptimizer.com, a free application designed to help patients:
• Understand what they can do to prevent dental disease
• Learn the latest about what dental treatments are the most effective
• Enjoy less time in the dentist’s chair
• Lower out-of-pocket costs
This new dental treatment application also gives users an option to rate their dentists or to review ratings by other patients.
“We launched the dental treatment iPhone application in response to our customers’ needs,” said Robert Gootee, president and CEO of ODS, the Oregon-based parent company of Dental Optimizer. “Our users live in a mobile world, and we want to expand their ability to manage their care regardless of their location.”
Aded Dr. William Ten Pas, DMD, former president of the American Dental Association who is now a senior executive at ODS: “A healthy mouth is vital to maintaining overall health. This new dental treatment application enables consumers to have easier access to care and allows them to make better informed decisions about their health.”
Acording to Rachel Picado, president of Dental Optimizer: “We are excited to be able to give iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad users increased access to one of the most comprehensive and informative resources on oral health. Our users will now be able to use our dental treatment tools as questions arise without having to wait until they get back home to their computers.”
The Dental Optimizer dental treatment tools are available from the App store on iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad. Consumers can also learn more about the web version of Dental Optimizer at www.dentaloptimizer.com.
From: DentistryIQ
They are hunting down information, storing it, using it – and doing it all on the go. To help, Dental Optimizer has announced the launch of a free dental treatment application that lets Apple iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad users get a better handle on their oral health.
The dental treatment application, available from the Apple iTunes App store, builds on the popularity of dentaloptimizer.com, a free application designed to help patients:
• Understand what they can do to prevent dental disease
• Learn the latest about what dental treatments are the most effective
• Enjoy less time in the dentist’s chair
• Lower out-of-pocket costs
This new dental treatment application also gives users an option to rate their dentists or to review ratings by other patients.
“We launched the dental treatment iPhone application in response to our customers’ needs,” said Robert Gootee, president and CEO of ODS, the Oregon-based parent company of Dental Optimizer. “Our users live in a mobile world, and we want to expand their ability to manage their care regardless of their location.”
Aded Dr. William Ten Pas, DMD, former president of the American Dental Association who is now a senior executive at ODS: “A healthy mouth is vital to maintaining overall health. This new dental treatment application enables consumers to have easier access to care and allows them to make better informed decisions about their health.”
Acording to Rachel Picado, president of Dental Optimizer: “We are excited to be able to give iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad users increased access to one of the most comprehensive and informative resources on oral health. Our users will now be able to use our dental treatment tools as questions arise without having to wait until they get back home to their computers.”
The Dental Optimizer dental treatment tools are available from the App store on iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad. Consumers can also learn more about the web version of Dental Optimizer at www.dentaloptimizer.com.
From: DentistryIQ
Dental first aid kit set to hit the shelves
A new, do-it-yourself dental emergency kit is set to be launched by the American company, TRDX.
The company is targeting holiday-makers and is set to put the product on the market in time for the summer holidays. School nurses and sports coaches and doctors are also likely to have an interest in the new kit.
The dental emergency kit, known simple as ‘the dental kit’, contains a variety of instruments and essential items, which can be used to treat everything from a broken brace to toothache or a chipped tooth. The kit has been designed to deal with emergency situations in the absence of an emergency dentist; in most cases, dental injuries or problems occur when the patient is not near their dentist.
TRDX are adamant that the product will be a great success, with holiday-makers becoming increasingly conscious about including first aid kits and health products away with them. The dental kit is small and will not take up much space in the suitcase; the company is under the impression that families will buy the product just in case something goes wrong on holiday. In years to come, the dental kit could appear on the ‘to pack’ list alongside the first aid kit and sun cream.
TRDX are also launching a luxury dental kit, which contains a larger range of products. The company is also launching a website to promote and market their product.
From: Cosmetic Dentistry Guide
The company is targeting holiday-makers and is set to put the product on the market in time for the summer holidays. School nurses and sports coaches and doctors are also likely to have an interest in the new kit.
The dental emergency kit, known simple as ‘the dental kit’, contains a variety of instruments and essential items, which can be used to treat everything from a broken brace to toothache or a chipped tooth. The kit has been designed to deal with emergency situations in the absence of an emergency dentist; in most cases, dental injuries or problems occur when the patient is not near their dentist.
TRDX are adamant that the product will be a great success, with holiday-makers becoming increasingly conscious about including first aid kits and health products away with them. The dental kit is small and will not take up much space in the suitcase; the company is under the impression that families will buy the product just in case something goes wrong on holiday. In years to come, the dental kit could appear on the ‘to pack’ list alongside the first aid kit and sun cream.
TRDX are also launching a luxury dental kit, which contains a larger range of products. The company is also launching a website to promote and market their product.
From: Cosmetic Dentistry Guide
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Big burgers 'damage jaws', say dentists in Taiwan
Fast food restaurants in Taiwan have been urged to drop big burgers from their menus amid a growing number of jaw injuries, according to a report.
Patients have had difficulty opening their mouths after munching giant burgers, said Professor Hsu Ming-lung, of National Yang-Ming University.
Problems can arise when tucking into burgers higher than 8cm (3ins), Hsu was quoted as saying by the China Post.
Hamburger-related injuries are on the rise, he warned.
He called on fast food restaurants to limit the size of their hamburgers to prevent the public from quite literally biting off more than they can chew.
From: BBC News
Poor dental care leads to increase in ER cases
A hospital in Springfield has revealed that dental pain is one of the most common reasons for admission to the emergency room.
Staff at St John’s hospital say that several cases of severe tooth pain are reported each day and the problem is becoming increasingly common. Many patients end up in hospital because they can’t afford dental treatment at a private practice and they don’t have dental insurance; consequently, most people haven’t seen a dentist in years and their oral health problems have become so bad that they end up in the emergency room.
Currently, dental patients make up 7 percent of ER admissions, 10 percent of Medicaid admissions and 37 percent of uninsured admissions. The figures demonstrate the problem faced by patients without dental insurance, with rising dental costs making it impossible for many patients to get the treatment they need.
Dr Ted McMurray, from the St. John’s Emergency Trauma Center, said there was a huge problem with access to dental services in the area and the centre was consequently treating an increasing number of dental patients.
Access to dental services is a problem in Green County; however, Jordan Valley Community Health Center is helping to ease the strain. The centre’s register is made up of 90 percent Medicaid patients and offers a sliding scale system to provide those with a low income with reduced rate dental treatment. Last year, the clinic cared for 11,500 patients. The centre is working beyond capacity and resources and staff are overstretched; the demand is growing each year and dentist Laurel Pritchard said they were so busy that they could employ five more dentists.
Despite the excellent work of Jordan Valley Community Health Center, there are still hundreds of people struggling to access affordable dental care in the region and this is confirmed by the worrying number of uninsured patients ending up in emergency rooms.
From: Cosmetic Dentistry Guide
Staff at St John’s hospital say that several cases of severe tooth pain are reported each day and the problem is becoming increasingly common. Many patients end up in hospital because they can’t afford dental treatment at a private practice and they don’t have dental insurance; consequently, most people haven’t seen a dentist in years and their oral health problems have become so bad that they end up in the emergency room.
Currently, dental patients make up 7 percent of ER admissions, 10 percent of Medicaid admissions and 37 percent of uninsured admissions. The figures demonstrate the problem faced by patients without dental insurance, with rising dental costs making it impossible for many patients to get the treatment they need.
Dr Ted McMurray, from the St. John’s Emergency Trauma Center, said there was a huge problem with access to dental services in the area and the centre was consequently treating an increasing number of dental patients.
Access to dental services is a problem in Green County; however, Jordan Valley Community Health Center is helping to ease the strain. The centre’s register is made up of 90 percent Medicaid patients and offers a sliding scale system to provide those with a low income with reduced rate dental treatment. Last year, the clinic cared for 11,500 patients. The centre is working beyond capacity and resources and staff are overstretched; the demand is growing each year and dentist Laurel Pritchard said they were so busy that they could employ five more dentists.
Despite the excellent work of Jordan Valley Community Health Center, there are still hundreds of people struggling to access affordable dental care in the region and this is confirmed by the worrying number of uninsured patients ending up in emergency rooms.
From: Cosmetic Dentistry Guide
When blacksmiths were dentists
Growing your own teeth from stem cells might seem blue-sky thinking, but dentists are confident this will become a reality within the next 50 years.
It all seems a far cry from the days when just pulling a tooth was fraught with danger and when barbers, wig makers and even blacksmiths would dabble in dentistry.
This year the dental establishment celebrates 150 years since the first dental licence.
To mark the occasion, the Hunterian Museum at the Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) in London is holding an exhibition to mark the life and career of Sir John Tomes, the first person to officially register himself as a 'dentist'.
Continue reading the main story
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Sometimes the jaws were also broken during an extraction by untrained people”
Stanley Gelbier
Milly Farrell, assistant curator of the museums department at the RCS, said Tomes had been a true pioneer in all aspects of dental care - from plotting biology of the teeth to developing instruments and furniture.
He even kept a register at the hospital of every case he treated and used these to analyse which teeth were most at risk of disease.
"Tomes developed a dental chair as well as many different instruments to deal with each tooth. He made the whole process much easier," she said.
Painful procedure
Stanley Gelbier, professor in the history of dentistry at King's College London Dental Institute, said that before Tomes, things could be very painful.
"Extractions were by forceps or commonly keys, rather like a door key," he said.
"When rotated it gripped the tooth tightly. This extracted the tooth - and usually gum and bone with it.
"Sometimes the jaws were also broken during an extraction by untrained people."
Professor Derrick Wilmott, dean of faculty at the RCS, said that after the 19th century dentistry became more organised. But he said one of the big advances had been anaesthetics.
"When I qualified at the end of the 1960s it was very different," he said.
"We used to give anaesthetics with the patient still sitting up, which is quite dangerous. Now they either give local anaesthetics or sedation."
He said even in the 1960s treatment was reactive and patients would usually only turn up when they were in pain.
"Now most decay can be prevented," he said.
Future hopes
Paul King, consultant and specialist in restorative dentistry at Bristol Dental Hospital, agreed the emphasis had moved to prevention.
"A generation before it was about getting rid of disease mainly by extraction and replacing teeth where appropriate with plastic dentures," he said.
"Now, partly because we have a generation coming through who have managed to retain their teeth, there is an increasing demand not just to accept teeth extraction which has driven innovative techniques regarding materials and things like that.
"There has been more emphasis on rebuilding teeth with white fillings and replacing missing teeth with dental implants."
But he said the future hopes were even more exciting.
"The real blue-sky thinking over the next 20 years is increasing the role of the computer to make it more accurate," he said.
"X-ray scanners now do 3D scans of mouth and bone and tissues, and from that you can computer manufacture missing teeth.
"We are already using quite a lot of that, but that will become commonplace.
"But if you are looking at 50 years on, I think we will become more knowledgeable about restorative dental techniques. They have already grown teeth, albeit only in mice. If we have to replace teeth the blue sky is we will be doing it by biological regeneration."
From: BBC News
Thursday, July 15, 2010
How to Choose the Best Dentist for Dental Implants
Dental implants have become a very popular choice for numerous patients who want to replace their missing teeth with the most natural option that is possible.
Selecting the best dentist for dental implants will make all the difference in the success and comfort of your implant procedure.
The first question that you need to ask about a dental implant dentist is how much experience the dental implant dentist has in performing the procedure.
While the success rate for this type of procedure is relatively high, it is important that you find a dental implant dentist who has performed numerous dental implants. This will help to make sure that your procedure will result in osseointegration.
The process of osseointegration is when the new implant root integrates itself with the jawbone. If the procedure is done properly, it will be hard to distinguish the rest of the teeth from the implant.
The very next question that you need to ask about the best dentist for dental implants is if the dental implant dentist does a thorough screening process before the procedure.
The reason for this is that there are some medical conditions that may lower the success rates. These may include current conditions such as diabetes and previous treatments such as radiation therapy. It is important that you find the best dentist for dental implants who carefully screens patients prior to performing a dental implant.
It is also important to inquire from the dental implant dentist about how the procedure works. Not all dental implant dentists care the same about the comfort of the patient. It is important that you find a dental implant dentist who will answer your questions and listen to your concerns.
You should also find a dental clinic that is comfortable and clean that has a staff that is friendly and helpful. These things will make for a much easier implant process. Since you will be seeing this clinic over a period of the next few months before the procedure is complete, therefore it is important to feel comfortable there.
The final question about a dental implant should be about the cost. Although you don’t want to select a dental implant dentist for your dental implant by the cost alone, you do want to know what the price will be up front. It is also important to inquire about any financing options that may be available.
Many dentists provide some sort of financing in order to make it easier for the patient to pay for the procedure. A dental implant can be the best way to obtain a more beautiful smile. It is important that you find the best dentist for dental implants to perform your procedure.
From : Dental Health Magazine
New drug could lead to a quick recovery after dental treatment
Almost all of us are familiar with the unpleasant, numb feeling we get after dental treatment; however, this feeling could soon be cut short by a new drug.
Many patient experience numbness for up to three hours following dental treatment; however, a new drug may halve this. Oraverse, the newest drug on the market produces numbness for around an hour and a half, compared to novocaine, which causes numbness for up to three and a half hours.
Dr Edward Molyneux said the drug would make recovery much more manageable for patients and help to eradicate the unpleasant feeling of having a numb mouth. The new drug means that people can get back to their daily lives after having dental treatment, without slurring their words, feeling like they are dribbling or feeling like they look strange.
From: Cosmetic Dentistry Guide
Many patient experience numbness for up to three hours following dental treatment; however, a new drug may halve this. Oraverse, the newest drug on the market produces numbness for around an hour and a half, compared to novocaine, which causes numbness for up to three and a half hours.
Dr Edward Molyneux said the drug would make recovery much more manageable for patients and help to eradicate the unpleasant feeling of having a numb mouth. The new drug means that people can get back to their daily lives after having dental treatment, without slurring their words, feeling like they are dribbling or feeling like they look strange.
From: Cosmetic Dentistry Guide
New dental programme set to help children and pregnant women
A new dental programme is set to benefit around 1,000 pregnant women and up to 3,000 children in San Bernardino County over the next three years.
The programme is being funded by a 1.2 million dollar grant from First Five San Bernardino and will be run by the Oakland-based Dental Health Foundation. The foundation will work alongside healthcare providers, including Care in the High Desert and Molina Health Care.
The programme will offer dental care to expectant mums and children and will also run educational sessions for both parents and children to ensure they have all the information they need to be able to look after their own and their children’s teeth. The sessions will be interactive and fun and will be designed to make people aware of the benefits of good oral health and the dangers associated with poor oral health.
Pregnant women are prone to gum disease and this can affect the development of the baby; recent research studies have revealed a link between the bacteria that cause gum disease and premature labour and even stillbirth. Studies have also revealed a link between poor oral health and a large number of other health issues, including an increased risk of heart disease and strokes.
The sessions and treatment will be given in the San Bernardino County Women, Infants and Children Program’s offices, which are located across the county in Chino, San Bernardino, Rancho Cucamonga and Redlands.
It is hoped that treatment will be available at the Molina clinics from September onwards.
From: Cosmetic Dentistry guide
The programme is being funded by a 1.2 million dollar grant from First Five San Bernardino and will be run by the Oakland-based Dental Health Foundation. The foundation will work alongside healthcare providers, including Care in the High Desert and Molina Health Care.
The programme will offer dental care to expectant mums and children and will also run educational sessions for both parents and children to ensure they have all the information they need to be able to look after their own and their children’s teeth. The sessions will be interactive and fun and will be designed to make people aware of the benefits of good oral health and the dangers associated with poor oral health.
Pregnant women are prone to gum disease and this can affect the development of the baby; recent research studies have revealed a link between the bacteria that cause gum disease and premature labour and even stillbirth. Studies have also revealed a link between poor oral health and a large number of other health issues, including an increased risk of heart disease and strokes.
The sessions and treatment will be given in the San Bernardino County Women, Infants and Children Program’s offices, which are located across the county in Chino, San Bernardino, Rancho Cucamonga and Redlands.
It is hoped that treatment will be available at the Molina clinics from September onwards.
From: Cosmetic Dentistry guide
Mouthing off: How to halve your dental bills
SHOPPING around for dental treatment is a relatively new thing for most people in this country. Until a few years ago, most people would have entrusted all their dental work to their local dentist without question.
But since information began to filter through that dentists in Northern Ireland and other EU destinations were offering treatment for considerably less than their counterparts in the Republic, the numbers of people opting to travel for treatment or do "dental tourism" have increased significantly.
Dentists in Banbridge, Co Down, for instance, recently claimed that 50pc of their business was now from the Republic.
But it seems that dentists in the Republic are making a stronger effort to win back customers by freezing or cutting prices, but also by displaying them more prominently.
Until recently, it was very difficult to compare prices for routine and specific treatments such as check-ups, polishes, crowns, dental implants, root canals and veneers from dentists in the State.
By contrast, such price information was very easy to obtain from dentists in Northern Ireland and elsewhere.
Variations
A recent National Consumer Agency (NCA) price survey showed that just 32pc of dentists displayed a schedule of fees on their premises, up from 28pc in 2009.
The Dental Council of Ireland (to which all practising dentists must register) has recently revised its code of practice following talks with the Competition Authority.
It strongly recommends displaying prices as prominently as possible in dental clinics.
The survey also looked at the actual prices, and revealed huge variations in fees charged for basic procedures.
For instance, in south Dublin city, the price charged for a check-up ranged from zero to €86.
Depending on where you live, you could get a scale and polish for as little as €25 or as much as €90, while a simple tooth extraction varies from €40 to €150.
Overall, Dubliners pay most for their dental services, though there are significant variations in cost within the city.
The Irish Dental Association (IDA) responded to the survey by claiming it was evidence of "real competition" in dentistry in Ireland.
The NCA has now written to the IDA asking it to draw up a code of practice on pricing.
However, Dermott Jewell, chief executive of the Consumers' Association of Ireland (CAI), says prices are still too high.
"Three years ago the Competition Authority reviewed the Irish market and found that fees had increased by 24pc more than the rate of inflation, so let's be clear, any changes since then are only tinkering with those seriously over-inflated prices," he said.
Mr Jewell added that the removal in the last Budget of the PRSI (pay related social insurance) entitlements to two free examinations and a teeth cleaning session every year means that the flow of people travelling outside of Ireland for dental treatment is unlikely to slow down by much.
Last year the CAI's 'Consumer Choice' magazine ran a small survey comparing the costs of routine dental examination and polish in Dublin and Belfast, which found that Dublin-based dentists were quoting prices that were 29pc higher than those in Belfast.
"That may be reduced slightly now in certain areas if the NCA survey is to be believed," said Mr Jewell. "However, I believe also that Northern Ireland dental professionals have been just as competitively minded.
"As I understand it, in cash terms, it means that the two examinations and cleaning that were free but which now cost as much as €270 can be had for at least €100 less."
Mr Jewell adds that going further afield is still mostly for those in need of more serious and costly treatments such as root canals, implants and veneers.
"They literally can save thousands by getting the work done elsewhere."
However, Fintan Hourihan, chief executive of the IDA, says he doesn't expect more patients to travel abroad for treatment previously covered by the PRSI scheme because it covers only routine items of treatment rather than 'high-end' treatments.
"It's unlikely that patients will travel abroad for routine items of treatment," he said.
Mr Hourihan adds that the recent strengthening of sterling against the euro has made travelling to Northern Ireland for dental work less attractive to consumers from a cost point of view.
He also points to a recent survey commissioned by his organisation which claims that some 6,000 people who travelled abroad (mostly Britain and Eastern Europe) for dental treatment have had to receive corrective treatment on their return to Ireland.
While the IDA now supports greater price transparency in terms of displaying prices for routine procedures, it believes that a range of fees is more appropriate than fixed prices for more complicated types of treatment.
"Precise estimates can only be provided on the basis of a proper assessment by attendance by the patient at the dental surgery," says Mr Hourihan.
"The association view is that a detailed treatment plan and cost should be provided to patients after this initial examination."
From: Irish Independent
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
The Early Diagnosis of Tooth Decay is the Key to Good Dental Health
The prevention of cavities remains a primary goal for the dental profession.
A recent study that was published in the Value in Health highlights the disparity between the normal practice of a dental clinic and the model of care that is based on evidence in terms of prevention intervention and diagnosis.
The primary objective of the study was to review the cost effectiveness and efficacy of a non invasive approach to the management of dental cavities within numerous private dental practices that were located in Australia.
This program, which was non invasive, proved effective in the reduction of recurrent cavities as well as the incidence of new cavities during the 3 years the study was conducted by over 40%.
These results were independent of previous history of dental cavities, fluoride history, medical status, gender, or age in a population of patients that received dental treatment in private dental practices.
In addition, it would appear that the program was also somewhat cost effective when it is compared to the existing dental care practice for patients that were categorized at medium to high risk of developing dental cavities.
It is unfortunate that dental care has moved towards more of an interventionist model. The current remuneration and payment rebate process is weighted more towards rewarding the number of the crowns that are fitted and the fillings that performed. This system that has only recently been adopted for the early diagnosis of cavities and has created the opportunities for the action that is necessary to prevent cavities.
There is a current shift in the resources towards the more expensive cosmetic procedures, and although understandable, it is creating an access issue and a resource that will require the collaboration of all who are in the profession including researchers, dental funders, and patients. This study is very much as a first step towards defining and hopefully addressing the problem.
From: Dental Health Magazine
A recent study that was published in the Value in Health highlights the disparity between the normal practice of a dental clinic and the model of care that is based on evidence in terms of prevention intervention and diagnosis.
The primary objective of the study was to review the cost effectiveness and efficacy of a non invasive approach to the management of dental cavities within numerous private dental practices that were located in Australia.
This program, which was non invasive, proved effective in the reduction of recurrent cavities as well as the incidence of new cavities during the 3 years the study was conducted by over 40%.
These results were independent of previous history of dental cavities, fluoride history, medical status, gender, or age in a population of patients that received dental treatment in private dental practices.
In addition, it would appear that the program was also somewhat cost effective when it is compared to the existing dental care practice for patients that were categorized at medium to high risk of developing dental cavities.
It is unfortunate that dental care has moved towards more of an interventionist model. The current remuneration and payment rebate process is weighted more towards rewarding the number of the crowns that are fitted and the fillings that performed. This system that has only recently been adopted for the early diagnosis of cavities and has created the opportunities for the action that is necessary to prevent cavities.
There is a current shift in the resources towards the more expensive cosmetic procedures, and although understandable, it is creating an access issue and a resource that will require the collaboration of all who are in the profession including researchers, dental funders, and patients. This study is very much as a first step towards defining and hopefully addressing the problem.
From: Dental Health Magazine
Those with stress are more likely to develop dental problems
People who are live high-stress lifestyles can benefit from re-evaluating their situations in order to prevent many health complications, include dental care problems.
One dental-related issue linked to too much stress is developing mouth sores. Bacteria and viruses that develop in the mouth can lead to fatigue, allergies and immune system complications, according to WebMd.com
Dealing with too much stress can also lead to teeth grinding, which can cause joint degeneration in the jaw and the breakdown of enamel. If the problem persists, it is recommended to see a dentist and have them mold a custom mouth guard.
Being overly busy can also cause people to put proper dental care at the bottom of their busy schedules, the website reports. This could include postponing or canceling dental appointments, and if a person isn't taking preventative measures at home, they could develop more severe dental problems, such as gum disease.
For example, more than 8 percent of all adults in the U.S. aged 20 to 64 years have been diagnosed with gum disease, DentalGuideUSA.org reports.
High-stress people with little or dental insurance who have time to improve their dental care can benefit from dental discount plans. Patients who are in need of a dental exam or extensive dental care will be able to receive these treatments at an affordable cost.
From: DentalPlans
Dental tip: Don't crunch your ice
Here is a short list of dental-health tips that most patients have either forgotten or never knew:
* Don't eat ice cubes. It is the season for this refreshing pastime, but it can result in fractured teeth. Many older fillings are made of silver, which doesn't bond to teeth like the white amalgams and can cause tiny cracks because of the stress of chewing hard items like cubes, candy or unpopped popcorn kernels.
* To clean the sulcus (the space between the gumline and the point where gum attaches to the tooth), turn your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and get the bristles in there.
* A normal depth for the sulcus is 2-3 millimeters, but if it reaches 7-8 it's time to start worrying.
* To clean in a particularly deep pocket, try tying a single or double knot in your floss to catch any food particles.
* When flossing the back teeth, curve the thread around the tooth and push it underneath the gumline.
* When the outer bristles of your brush start to flare, it's time to change it.
* If you eat a sweet snack and can't get to your toothbrush for a while, rinse with water to delay the sugar's activity.
* Stop smoking. Smoking is so destructive to teeth and gums that many periodontists won't even treat these patients because the prognosis for recovery is so poor.
From: Charleston Gazette
* Don't eat ice cubes. It is the season for this refreshing pastime, but it can result in fractured teeth. Many older fillings are made of silver, which doesn't bond to teeth like the white amalgams and can cause tiny cracks because of the stress of chewing hard items like cubes, candy or unpopped popcorn kernels.
* To clean the sulcus (the space between the gumline and the point where gum attaches to the tooth), turn your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and get the bristles in there.
* A normal depth for the sulcus is 2-3 millimeters, but if it reaches 7-8 it's time to start worrying.
* To clean in a particularly deep pocket, try tying a single or double knot in your floss to catch any food particles.
* When flossing the back teeth, curve the thread around the tooth and push it underneath the gumline.
* When the outer bristles of your brush start to flare, it's time to change it.
* If you eat a sweet snack and can't get to your toothbrush for a while, rinse with water to delay the sugar's activity.
* Stop smoking. Smoking is so destructive to teeth and gums that many periodontists won't even treat these patients because the prognosis for recovery is so poor.
From: Charleston Gazette
How Much Can Dental Implants Cost
The cost of a dental implant can frequently be considerable more than that of a simple cap or crown because it is form of elective surgery.
The cost can depend on the expectation of the patient, the doctor, and on the specific procedure. The cost of a single implant can cost as little as several hundred to as much as several thousand dollars.
Some individuals will even spend as much as tens of thousands of dollars for a complete rehabilitation. Usually, a patient can expect to spend around $1500 for each tooth for a high quality dental implant.
This process is twofold, and involves the insertion of the implant within the patients jawbone, and then the restoration of the mission tooth with an artificial one.
The end result is a safer, longer lasting and more natural, safer, and healthier looking smile. If all these facts are considered, the additional costs of dental implants normally make more sense.
From : Dental Health Magazine
The cost can depend on the expectation of the patient, the doctor, and on the specific procedure. The cost of a single implant can cost as little as several hundred to as much as several thousand dollars.
Some individuals will even spend as much as tens of thousands of dollars for a complete rehabilitation. Usually, a patient can expect to spend around $1500 for each tooth for a high quality dental implant.
This process is twofold, and involves the insertion of the implant within the patients jawbone, and then the restoration of the mission tooth with an artificial one.
The end result is a safer, longer lasting and more natural, safer, and healthier looking smile. If all these facts are considered, the additional costs of dental implants normally make more sense.
From : Dental Health Magazine
Children's dental health improving in Glasgow
Research has shown that standards of dental health amongst children are improving in Glasgow for the first time in many years.
Figures released by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde confirmed that rates of tooth decay have fallen significantly, with 60 percent of children aged 11 getting a clean bill of health during dental check-ups; this is a 19 percent increase since 2005.
The new figures are thought to be down to a significant investment in dental health in the area; since 2005, seven million pounds have been ploughed into the Glasgow and Clyde region after it was revealed that a large proportion of children were suffering from oral health issues, including tooth decay.
Glasgow has suffered from poor oral health for decades and is historically linked with having the worst standards of oral health in Western Europe; however, the new statistics show a marked improvement and standards are now the highest they have ever been.
The money has been used to provide preventative treatments and improve education for children; professionals have been spending time in nurseries and schools teaching children how to brush their teeth and a new fluoride varnish programme to protect the teeth and promote good oral health. Now, 97 percent and 94 percent of primary one and two classes hold teeth cleaning sessions to talk to children about cleaning their teeth and teach them about oral hygiene.
As a result of the investment, the number of children being admitted into hospital for dental treatment has fallen significantly and the number of children registered with an NHS dentist in the Greater Glasgow and Clyde area has increased to well above the Scottish average.
Representatives from the Greater Glasgow and Clyde health board and local dentists have welcomed the latest figures and are ecstatic that standards have improved so significantly in tandem with NHS investment; however, there are still many children with tooth decay and the board must continue to work to reduce levels of decay and promote better oral health.
From: Cosmetic Dentistry Guide
Monday, July 5, 2010
The hazards of chewing ice cubes and other dental dos and don'ts
Here is a short list of dental-health tips most patients have either forgotten or never knew:
•Don't eat ice cubes. It is the season for this refreshing pastime, but it can result in fractured teeth. Many older fillings are made of silver, which doesn't bond to teeth like the white amalgams and can cause tiny cracks because of the stress of chewing hard items such as cubes, candy or unpopped popcorn kernels. "The older we get, the more brittle our teeth become," Anderson said.
•To clean the sulcus (the space between the gumline and the point where gum attaches to the tooth), turn your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and get the bristles in there.
•A normal depth for the sulcus is 2 to 3 millimeters, but if it reaches 7 or 8 it's time to start worrying.
•To clean in a particularly deep pocket, try tying a single or double knot in your floss to catch any food particles.
•When flossing the back teeth, curve the thread around the tooth and push it underneath the gumline.
•When the outer bristles of your brush start to flare, it's time to change it.
•If you eat a sweet snack and can't get to your toothbrush for a while, rinse with water to delay the sugar's activity.
•Stop smoking. Smoking is so destructive to teeth and gums that many periodontists won't even treat these patients because the prognosis for recovery is so poor.
By LANDON HALL in PressofAtlanticCity.com
•Don't eat ice cubes. It is the season for this refreshing pastime, but it can result in fractured teeth. Many older fillings are made of silver, which doesn't bond to teeth like the white amalgams and can cause tiny cracks because of the stress of chewing hard items such as cubes, candy or unpopped popcorn kernels. "The older we get, the more brittle our teeth become," Anderson said.
•To clean the sulcus (the space between the gumline and the point where gum attaches to the tooth), turn your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and get the bristles in there.
•A normal depth for the sulcus is 2 to 3 millimeters, but if it reaches 7 or 8 it's time to start worrying.
•To clean in a particularly deep pocket, try tying a single or double knot in your floss to catch any food particles.
•When flossing the back teeth, curve the thread around the tooth and push it underneath the gumline.
•When the outer bristles of your brush start to flare, it's time to change it.
•If you eat a sweet snack and can't get to your toothbrush for a while, rinse with water to delay the sugar's activity.
•Stop smoking. Smoking is so destructive to teeth and gums that many periodontists won't even treat these patients because the prognosis for recovery is so poor.
By LANDON HALL in PressofAtlanticCity.com
Hospitals ban sugar in tea and coffee
Hospital will see a ban on sugar in tea and coffee due to possible health risks, health officials revealed this week.
The NHS in Wales is planning to stop the sale of hot drinks containing sugar from vending machines in its hospitals.
The ban is being put in place as sugar in tea or coffee offers no nutritional value, and can have a negative impact on dental health.
Chief executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, Dr Nigel Carter, said: 'It is positive news that the NHS in Wales is looking into ways to improve dental health within hospitals.
'Sugar does have a damaging impact on teeth – it can cause tooth decay. But it would be unreasonable to expect people to go to an extreme and cut all sugar out of their diet, the important thing is to try and cut down how often they have sugary foods and drinks.
The ban comes after schools were targeted by a health push by the Welsh Assembly. It was suggested children should not be allowed sugar in their tea during their break as part of a plan to tackle childhood obesity and poor health.
The Welsh Assembly, who recommends the sale of water and healthy snacks as an alternative, said: 'Hospitals are visited by a very broad cross-section of society and, as such, the whole hospital environment should reflect the importance of healthy living.'
From: Dentistry.co.uk
The NHS in Wales is planning to stop the sale of hot drinks containing sugar from vending machines in its hospitals.
The ban is being put in place as sugar in tea or coffee offers no nutritional value, and can have a negative impact on dental health.
Chief executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, Dr Nigel Carter, said: 'It is positive news that the NHS in Wales is looking into ways to improve dental health within hospitals.
'Sugar does have a damaging impact on teeth – it can cause tooth decay. But it would be unreasonable to expect people to go to an extreme and cut all sugar out of their diet, the important thing is to try and cut down how often they have sugary foods and drinks.
The ban comes after schools were targeted by a health push by the Welsh Assembly. It was suggested children should not be allowed sugar in their tea during their break as part of a plan to tackle childhood obesity and poor health.
The Welsh Assembly, who recommends the sale of water and healthy snacks as an alternative, said: 'Hospitals are visited by a very broad cross-section of society and, as such, the whole hospital environment should reflect the importance of healthy living.'
From: Dentistry.co.uk
Dental healthcare is child's play
A project to promote children's oral health care through play has been expanded by the charity Action for Sick Children.
The north west of England has particularly bad statistics with regard to dental care – many children go through the unnecessary pain of having decayed milk teeth extracted.
The project currently covers areas in the North West, including Cheshire, Derbyshire, Staffordshire and Manchester.
The Dental Play Box scheme supports the Early Years Foundation Stage and involves a visit from a play facilitator.
It is a free service available to schools, clubs, nurseries and other pre-school settings.
The main aim of the visit is to explore through play the importance of looking after your teeth and visiting the dentist.
A box of resources, which include role play uniforms, hand puppets, games, stories, toothbrushes and a teachers' pack is left for a week after the session for the children to play with.
Feedback has been extremely positive.
Many children have gone on to develop good habits and after hands on experience with the Play Box, a visit to the dentist is now much less daunting.
To arrange a visit contact the Dental Play box team at enquiries@actionforsickchildren.org or phone 01663 763004.
From: Dentistry.co.uk
The north west of England has particularly bad statistics with regard to dental care – many children go through the unnecessary pain of having decayed milk teeth extracted.
The project currently covers areas in the North West, including Cheshire, Derbyshire, Staffordshire and Manchester.
The Dental Play Box scheme supports the Early Years Foundation Stage and involves a visit from a play facilitator.
It is a free service available to schools, clubs, nurseries and other pre-school settings.
The main aim of the visit is to explore through play the importance of looking after your teeth and visiting the dentist.
A box of resources, which include role play uniforms, hand puppets, games, stories, toothbrushes and a teachers' pack is left for a week after the session for the children to play with.
Feedback has been extremely positive.
Many children have gone on to develop good habits and after hands on experience with the Play Box, a visit to the dentist is now much less daunting.
To arrange a visit contact the Dental Play box team at enquiries@actionforsickchildren.org or phone 01663 763004.
From: Dentistry.co.uk
Nine out of ten able to see NHS dentist
Nine out of ten (92%) people who tried to access a NHS dentist in the past two years were successful, suggests a new survey from the Department of Health.
While some regional variation exists - 95% of people in the North East managed to get an appointment compared to 90% in the South Central region - the results suggest that progress has been made in the NHS.
However, the results suggest the public's perceptions about access may remain negative. The second most frequent response given for not trying to get an NHS dentist appointment was the belief that it would not be possible to get one. In a survey of 1,500 workers carried out by dental benefit provider Denplan in March, 67% said they believed there are issues accessing NHS dentistry at the moment.
In total,147,600 people responded to the questions about access to dentistry as part of the quarterly survey of GP adult patients, carried out on behalf of the Department of Health. Of this number 59% had tried to obtain an NHS dentist appointment.
Surveys by insurers tend to suggest more prevalent access problems. Simplyhealth's 2010 dental survey of 1,000 people carried out between February and March of this year found that 39% of respondents had struggled to find an NHS dentist.
From: Health Insurance Magazine
While some regional variation exists - 95% of people in the North East managed to get an appointment compared to 90% in the South Central region - the results suggest that progress has been made in the NHS.
However, the results suggest the public's perceptions about access may remain negative. The second most frequent response given for not trying to get an NHS dentist appointment was the belief that it would not be possible to get one. In a survey of 1,500 workers carried out by dental benefit provider Denplan in March, 67% said they believed there are issues accessing NHS dentistry at the moment.
In total,147,600 people responded to the questions about access to dentistry as part of the quarterly survey of GP adult patients, carried out on behalf of the Department of Health. Of this number 59% had tried to obtain an NHS dentist appointment.
Surveys by insurers tend to suggest more prevalent access problems. Simplyhealth's 2010 dental survey of 1,000 people carried out between February and March of this year found that 39% of respondents had struggled to find an NHS dentist.
From: Health Insurance Magazine
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Dentist trip is a pre-holiday essential, say dental experts
A flying visit to the dentist before your summer holiday could help you avoid difficulties when travelling abroad – according to the UK's leading oral health charity.
The British Dental Health Foundation advises that if you are planning to go overseas this summer – and have not had a check-up recently – you should book to see a dentist beforehand as a precaution and to eliminate potential long-term damage to your oral health.
Chief executive of the Foundation, Dr Nigel Carter, said that a trip to the dentists should be a part of everyone's pre-holiday preparations.
Dr Carter said: 'Going to the dentist may not be at the forefront of your mind when preparing to go on holiday but it should not be ignored. When abroad, we tend to eat more sugary foods and drinks and be more relaxed with our dental routine so it is vital that you know your teeth are in good shape before you leave.
The Foundation has also recommended that you take steps and plan for any dental emergencies that could arise while you're away.
'Packing any prescribed medications and personal identification, as well as having searched for where all the best hospitals or health centres are, is just as important as remembering all your travel essentials.
'Emergency dental care in other countries can also be both expensive and of variable quality.
'Although dental emergencies can develop at anytime, it can be a draining experience and ruin your plans if they occur during a holiday.
'The message, cliché though it may be, is ‘better to be safe than sorry' and even though all your pre-planning will not prevent the emergency, it will make it easier for you if something does go wrong,' Dr Carter adds.
Emergencies can range from painful toothaches to broken, loosened or knocked-out teeth. Whenever dental pain or trauma occurs, it is critical to seek immediate treatment to maintain oral health and possibly save teeth.
The Foundation advises that you take extra care and keep to a strict dental routine while away, brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
If you need any tips on handling dental emergencies or further advice on dental precautions before going abroad, contact the National Dental Helpline on 0845 063 1188 or helpline@dentalhealth.org.
From Dentistry.co.uk
The British Dental Health Foundation advises that if you are planning to go overseas this summer – and have not had a check-up recently – you should book to see a dentist beforehand as a precaution and to eliminate potential long-term damage to your oral health.
Chief executive of the Foundation, Dr Nigel Carter, said that a trip to the dentists should be a part of everyone's pre-holiday preparations.
Dr Carter said: 'Going to the dentist may not be at the forefront of your mind when preparing to go on holiday but it should not be ignored. When abroad, we tend to eat more sugary foods and drinks and be more relaxed with our dental routine so it is vital that you know your teeth are in good shape before you leave.
The Foundation has also recommended that you take steps and plan for any dental emergencies that could arise while you're away.
'Packing any prescribed medications and personal identification, as well as having searched for where all the best hospitals or health centres are, is just as important as remembering all your travel essentials.
'Emergency dental care in other countries can also be both expensive and of variable quality.
'Although dental emergencies can develop at anytime, it can be a draining experience and ruin your plans if they occur during a holiday.
'The message, cliché though it may be, is ‘better to be safe than sorry' and even though all your pre-planning will not prevent the emergency, it will make it easier for you if something does go wrong,' Dr Carter adds.
Emergencies can range from painful toothaches to broken, loosened or knocked-out teeth. Whenever dental pain or trauma occurs, it is critical to seek immediate treatment to maintain oral health and possibly save teeth.
The Foundation advises that you take extra care and keep to a strict dental routine while away, brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
If you need any tips on handling dental emergencies or further advice on dental precautions before going abroad, contact the National Dental Helpline on 0845 063 1188 or helpline@dentalhealth.org.
From Dentistry.co.uk
RCT to Be Improved By a Nano-Sized Dental Film
According to a report published in the monthly journal ACS Nano, dentists would soon be able to improve the root canal treatment with the help of a nano-sized dental film.
This film would be instrumental in bringing the ailing tooth back to life. The report was written by Nadia Benkirane-Jessel and her co-workers.
It states that every year the root canal procedures are helpful in preventing tooth loss in millions of people around the world.
In the root canal treatment the doctor removes the sore and swollen pulp. Pulp is the soft tissue present inside the ailing or injured tooth which has blood vessels and nerves.
Regenerative endodontics will make it possible to give a ground breaking substitute to pulp removal. This technique focuses on the growth and delivery of tissues which are used to substitute the damaged or sick dental pulp.
The researchers revealed that the film will contain a material that could help in regenerating the pulp. The nano -sized film has 1/50,000th thickness of a human hair.
The studies conducted earlier have shown that the substance which is known as alpha melanocyte stimulating hormone, has anti inflammatory properties.
From: Top News
Scientists Develop Root Canal Treatment
The scientists have come up an advanced gel formula which can treat tooth decay in unique way. The treatment will undertake root canal therapy for improvising diseased teeth, making them healthy and living again.
The most striking part of the treatment is that it doesn't leave the any dead tooth in the mouth. Nadia Benkirane-Jessel of Inserm, said that root canal treatments save millions of people from tooth loss every year.
The process involves the dentist in the removal of the deteriorated, dead pulp developed in the form of a cavity. The cavity develops within the soft tissue in the damaged tooth.
Regenerative endodontics is a procedure of enlargement and the improvisation of the tissues for the replacement of deteriorated or damaged dental pulp.
It is capable of serving as a striking substitute for pulp removal.
Scientists are suggesting the evolution of a multilayered, tiny film which is only 1/50,000th of the width of a human hair. It constitutes a core, which rejuvenates the dental pulp.
It's not like toothpaste. "Here we are really trying to control cavities",said Benkirane-Jessel, a scientist at the Institute National de la Sante et de la Recherche Medicale.
From: Top News
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