Trauma to front teeth in kids.

 During childhood tooth and mouth injuries are very common. Nearly 50 percent of children have tooth injuries in childhood. In most cases, the injuries are not life-threatening but sometimes they can cause serious and long-lasting effects on a child’s appearance and self-confidence.

 

Causes:

·         Fight with other kids

·         Falls

·         Child trips down with an object in the mouth

·         Clashes with household furniture

 

Evaluation:

 Many parents wonder when to give attention to kids about normal tooth or mouth injuries,

·         If there is a broken, missing, or loose tooth after an injury.

·         If there is bleeding that doesn’t stop after 10-15 min.

·         If there is pain and sensitivity in the tooth.

·         Difficulty in mouth opening.

·         If the vision and speech are affected.

 

Treatment:

Dental injuries — the treatment for dental injuries depends upon the child's age, the type of injury, and whether the injured tooth is primary or permanent.

 

Long-term follow-up after injury — Injuries to the teeth, especially those involving permanent teeth, will require long-term follow-up and care. Even if the injured tooth appears healthy, it is still important for the parents to have their children evaluated by a dentist who is experienced in dental injuries.

 

Dislocated or loose primary tooth — The most common injury to the primary teeth is dislocation of the front teeth. The management of these injuries focuses on preventing future damage to the permanent teeth.

 

Broken primary tooth — Children with broken teeth should see a dentist promptly. Treatment may include smoothing the rough edges of the tooth, repairing it with a tooth-colored resin material, pulpectomy procedure, leaving the tooth in place, or removing it.

 

Dislocated permanent tooth — A permanent tooth that is knocked out is a dental emergency that requires prompt treatment. The tooth should be placed back into the tooth socket as soon as possible, ideally within 15 minutes and up to one hour or longer if stored in cold milk.

Because of the importance of replacing the tooth quickly, the following steps are recommended:

● Handle the tooth carefully by the top.

● Remove any debris by gently rinsing the tooth with saline or milk; the tooth should not be scrubbed or sterilized.

● Place the tooth by hand, back into the socket if possible. If not possible, then place it in a physiologic storage medium (Hank’s solution, Saliva, or saline).

● Keep the tooth in place by having the child bite on a clean towel or handkerchief.

·         See the dentist as soon as possible.

 

Teeth Care Centre understands that every child is special. So to treat them specially, we have a team of the best pediatric dentists in Ahmedabad. All the procedures are performed under the supervision of our chief dentist, Dr. Pankti Patel.

What is Bell’s palsy?

 

Bell’s palsy is a condition where episodes of facial muscle weakness or facial paralysis occur. This gets worse after 48 hours. It is usually on one side of the face. The 7^th cranial nerve is affected in this condition.

Symptoms of Bell’s palsy

·         Drooping face

·         Loss of expressions

·         Tears from one eye

·         No blinking of an eye

·         Loss of taste

·         Facial pain

·         Ear pain

·         Dry eyes

Causes of Bell’s palsy:

·         Bell’s palsy can occur at any age.

·         Commonly occurs at age 65 or above.

·         The ratio of males and females is equal.

·         Herpes simplex and Herpes zoster virus are common causes.

·         HIV/AIDS infection.

·         Middle ear infection.

The patient with Bell’s palsy is more susceptible to oral diseases such as:

·         Tooth decay

·         Salivary diseases such as xerostomia

·         Gum diseases like swollen gingiva

·         Salivary gland disorder 

Treatment:

To treat Bell’s palsy, meeting with a dentist can be beneficial. A dentist can perform routine cleanings to ensure a Bell’s palsy patient can avoid oral health problems. If the dentist identifies oral health issues, he or she can help the patient correct them, too. 

Here at TEETH CARE CENTRE, Dr. Pankti Patel who is the chief dentist and the most famous dentist in Ahmedabad performs an in-depth patient assessment to provide the best treatment possible.

Are teeth alignment only important for esthetic purpose ?

 

No, clinical evaluation of some factors would bring out the real necessity of teeth alignment.

Surpassing those advantages listed such as:

·         Better digestion-  Chewing is the foremost important step for digestion. Malalignment of teeth causes improper chewing which results in improper digestion and ultimately your body gets less nutrition.

·         Clean and healthy teeth-  Overcrowded teeth form a nida for clogged food particles and attraction of microorganisms. In the end maintenance of hygiene becomes an issue.

·         Improved and clear speech – Good aligned teeth play a major role in speech function, protruding or spaced teeth result in slurred speech which can lower self-confidence.

·        TMJ pain and headache-  Due to malalignment, the teeth are unable to give desire  bite registration which affects directly the temporomandibular joint. This pain also radiates to the head causing mild to moderate migraine headaches.

·         Less chances of wear and tear- Properly aligned teeth would exert less stress on the teeth which will timely reflect on how worn they can get due to malalignment.

·         Fewer cracks, breaks, and chips -  Due to uncontrolled forces, a portion of enamel can chip off or break from the tooth or the tooth might be diagnosed with a crack in it.

·         Increased self-confidence - Perfectly aligned teeth will create an attractive appearance that can have a good impact on others, presumably it will boost one’s self-confidence.

How to get a solution to this mostly common issue of malalignment :

So, the emerging era of Invisalign aligners has shown drastic results for the treatment of malalignment of teeth. These are basically removable, transparent orthodontic devices that move your teeth into their ideal position.

Teeth Care Centre is the pioneer and the best provider of Invisalign aligners in Ahmedabad. Dr. Nirav Patel, the best orthodontist in Ahmedabad provides the best clear aligner treatment.

What is a Dental Implant?

Dental implants are titanium screws surgically inserted into the jawbone beneath the gums. Acting as artificial tooth roots, they provide a sturdy foundation for the replacement of teeth or bridges. These implants fuse with the jawbone over time, creating a stable base for artificial teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, which sit on the gum line or are anchored to adjacent teeth, implants integrate with the jawbone, providing stability and mimicking the natural tooth structure.

 

The procedure:

1.       Consultation: The dental professional will do a thorough clinical evaluation along with some 3D x-rays like CBCT, to find if you are an ideal candidate for implant or not, and will further do the implant placement planning accordingly.

2.       Implant Placement: Under local anesthesia dental implant is placed in the jaw bone.

3.       Healing Phase: After the surgical implant placement in the jaw bone, approx. 4 to 6 months of healing period is required for the osteointegration process of the implant with the bone.

4.       Prosthesis: After the implant is completely healed inside the jaw bone, a prosthesis like crown, bridge or implant-supported denture is restored on implants along with abutments, as per requirement.

Benefits:

1.       Improved oral function.

2.       Natural Appearance.

3.       Preserved Jaw Bone.

4.       High Success Rate.

5.       Cost Effective in Long Term.

6.       Long Lasting.

7.       Adjacent teeth are not damaged.

8.       Comfort.

9.       Stability.

10.   Improved speech functions.

11.   Boosted Confidence.

Factors which affect implant candidacy are:

1.       Sufficient jaw bone

2.       Absence of gum disease

3.       Good oral hygiene

How to take care of an implant?

1.      Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing teeth 2 times a day.

2.      Visit your dentist regularly.

3.     Avoid habits like smoking, tobacco intake, and alcohol consumption, which can hamper the healing process.

Dental Implants are a ground-breaking solution for the replacement of missing teeth. TeethCare Centre, the best teeth implant clinic in Ahmedabad uses the latest technology and robotic guidance for placement of dental implants, which results in precise implant placement and faster healing.

 

What is Syncope?

Fainting, medically known as syncope, is a sudden and temporary loss of consciousness often triggered by various factors, including emotional stress, pain, or medical conditions. Syncope occurs when there is a temporary reduction in blood flow to the brain, leading to a loss of consciousness and muscle tone.

Causes:

1.       Pain or Anxiety: Dental procedures, particularly those involving injections or lengthy treatments, can induce anxiety or discomfort, which may trigger a fainting episode.

2.       Vasovagal Response: This is the most common cause of syncope during dental treatment. It occurs when emotional stress, pain, or other triggers stimulate the vagus nerve, leading to a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure.

3.       Fear of Needles or Dental Instruments: Some individuals may have a fear of needles or dental instruments, leading to a vasovagal response and subsequent fainting.

4.       Postural Changes: Rapid changes in posture, such as sitting up suddenly after lying flat during treatment, can also contribute to syncope by affecting blood flow regulation. 

Signs of syncope:

1.       Pallor (paleness) of the skin.

2.       Sweating.

3.       Nausea or light-headedness.

4.       Complaints of feeling faint or dizzy.

5.       Loss of consciousness.

How to manage syncope:

1.       Stop Treatment: Immediately cease the dental procedure and recline the patient's chair to improve blood flow to the brain.

2.       Maintain Airway: Ensure the patient's airway is clear and unobstructed. If necessary, administer oxygen to support respiration.

3.       Monitor Vital Signs: Check the patient's pulse and blood pressure regularly. If the patient remains unconscious or experiences prolonged symptoms, consider seeking medical assistance.

4.       Reassure and Comfort: Offer reassurance and support to the patient once consciousness is regained. Discuss the incident with empathy and address any concerns or fears they may have. 

How to prevent syncope:

1.       Creating a calm and supportive environment to minimize patient anxiety.

2.       Using topical anesthetics or distraction techniques to minimize discomfort during injections or procedures.

3.       Providing frequent breaks during lengthy procedures to allow patients to rest and recover.

4.       Ensuring proper hydration and blood sugar levels before and during treatment.

5.       Patient education.

Syncope is a common dental emergency that can occur during lengthy procedures and in anxious patients. To ensure no such event occurs, all the management and prevention techniques should be done by a dental professional beforehand to ensure maximum patient comfort. At Teeth CareCentre, Dr. Pankti Patel, the best dentist in Ahmedabad, makes sure all her patients are fear free and relaxed. To avoid any such happenings like syncope, we use inhalation-conscious sedation techniques and a painless injection system for all the patients, so that any dental anxiety gets dismissed and the patient is comfortable.

Heart and oral health

Traditionally, dentistry and cardiology have been considered separate fields, each with its own distinct focus. However, recent research has revealed a significant correlation between poor oral health and various cardiovascular conditions. This link is often referred to as the oral-systemic connection.

The link between oral health and heart:

The mouth and its health serve as a gateway to the body. Studies have revealed an association between gum disease (periodontitis) and cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease and stroke. While the exact mechanisms behind this connection are still not known precisely, several theories suggest the following:

·         Inflammation: Gum disease is characterized by inflammation caused by bacterial infection. Chronic inflammation in the gums can trigger a systemic inflammatory response throughout the body, potentially contributing to the inflammation seen in cardiovascular diseases.

·         Bacterial Spread: The bacteria responsible for gum disease can enter the bloodstream through inflamed gum tissue. Once in the bloodstream, these bacteria may travel to other parts of the body, including the arteries of the heart. This bacterial presence could contribute to the formation of arterial plaque, increasing the risk of heart disease.

·         Shared Risk Factors: Poor oral health habits, such as infrequent brushing and flossing, unhealthy diet choices, and smoking, are common risk factors for both gum disease and cardiovascular diseases. Addressing these risk factors can positively impact both oral and heart health.

Collaborative Care: Recognizing the connection between oral health and systemic health, healthcare professionals are now moving towards a collaborative approach to patient care. Dentists and physicians are working together with a focus on both oral and cardiovascular wellness. This approach may involve joint screenings, joint treatment planning, and patient education.

Importance of Oral Hygiene

1.       Brushing and Flossing: Brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth and along the gumline.

2.       Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings to detect any signs of gum disease early and receive professional care to keep your gums healthy.

3.       Avoid Tobacco Products: Smoking and using other tobacco products not only stains your teeth and contributes to bad breath but also significantly increases the risk of gum disease and cardiovascular diseases.

4.       Healthy Diet: Limit sugary foods and drinks, which can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. Instead, opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

Conclusion:

As the research continues, more aspects of this oral heart link will open. Teeth Care Centre, the best dental clinic in Ahmedabad, always suggests to their patients to get a routine oral evaluation, to prevent any such possibilities and guides them on how to maintain oral hygiene in a better way.

 

Why should you choose Metal-free Crown only?

 

Dental crowns have been used in dentistry for a long time now. Dental crowns are used to restore or save damaged teeth or weak tooth structures. Dental crowns are of many types, namely, all-metal crowns, porcelain fused-to-metal crowns, gold crowns, ceramic crowns, etc.

 

When should you get a crown?

1.       Severe tooth wear

2.       Dental Implants

3.       Cosmetic enhancements

4.       Broken tooth

5.       Severe tooth decay

6.       Post root canal treatment

7.       Protection of weaker tooth structure.

What is a metal-free crown?

Metal-free crowns are dental restorations, made from biocompatible, high-strength, durable materials like lithium disilicate glass, aluminum dioxide, zirconium dioxide, etc. Metal-free crowns like empress crowns, e-max crowns, feldspathic crowns, and zirconium crowns have gained popularity due to their highly exceptional strength along with their natural and aesthetic appearance and biocompatible nature with the human body.

Why choose metal-free crowns only?

1.       Strength and Durability: Durability: Metal-free crowns are known for their strength and resilience, making them suitable for long-term use.

2.       Natural Aesthetics: Metal-free crowns can be color-matched to natural teeth, providing a more natural appearance, for a seamless blend with natural dentition.

3.       Biocompatibility: Metal-free crowns are made of biocompatible material, reducing the risk of allergic reactions or sensitivity in the mouth and body.

4.       Precision: These crowns can be fabricated using advanced CAD/CAM technology, ensuring a precise fit.

5.       Minimal Tooth Reduction: Compared to some other types of crowns, metal-free crowns may require less tooth reduction, preserving more of the natural tooth structure.

6.       Longevity: With proper oral hygiene measures, metal-free crowns can last up to many years. 

Placement Procedure:

1.       Consultation and Examination: Your dentist will assess your oral health and discuss your treatment goals to determine if metal-free crowns are the right option for you.

2.       Tooth Preparation: If necessary, the dentist will prepare the affected tooth by removing any decay or damaged structure and shaping it to accommodate the crown.

3.       Impression: An impression of the prepared tooth will be taken using dental putty material or digital scanning technology to ensure an accurate fit for the crown.

4.       Crown Fabrication: The impression or digital scan will be sent to a dental laboratory where skilled technicians will fabricate the crown to match the precise specifications.

5.       Placement: Once the crown is ready, it will be bonded securely to the prepared tooth using dental cement, restoring function and aesthetics to your smile. 

In conclusion, a metal-free crown is a significant advancement in dentistry, being a combination of strength and aesthetics. At Teeth Care Centre, Dr. Pankti Patel, the best cosmetic dentist in India, only recommends metal-free crowns for all her patients, when it comes to strength and aesthetics. 

Smoking and Oral Health

Smoking has long been recognized as a major public health concern, contributing to a lot of diseases and health complications. Among its many adverse effects, smoking significantly impacts oral health, often leading to serious dental issues and oral diseases.

Effects of Smoking on Oral Health:

1.       Periodontal Disease: Smoking significantly increases the risk of periodontal (gum) disease. It interferes with the normal function of gum tissue cells, making smokers more susceptible to infections. Moreover, smoking weakens the body's immune system, making it harder to fight off gum infections. This leads to symptoms such as swollen, bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, and eventual tooth loss.

2.       Oral Cancer: Perhaps one of the most serious consequences of smoking on oral health is the increased risk of oral cancer. Tobacco smoke contains numerous carcinogens that can damage cells in the mouth, leading to the development of cancerous lesions. Smokers are at a much higher risk of developing cancers of the lips, tongue, cheeks, and throat compared to non-smokers.

3.       Staining and Discoloration: Smoking stains teeth due to the presence of tar and nicotine in tobacco. Over time, this can result in yellow or brown discoloration of the teeth, which can be difficult to remove even with regular brushing and professional cleanings. The aesthetic impact of smoking on one's smile can be profound and may significantly affect self-confidence and social interactions.

4.       Delayed Healing: Smoking slows down the body's natural healing processes, including those in the mouth. This means that smokers may experience delayed healing after dental procedures such as tooth extractions, gum surgeries, or dental implants. Slower healing increases the risk of complications such as infections and can prolong recovery times.

5.       Halitosis (Bad Breath): Smoking contributes to persistent bad breath, also known as halitosis. The chemicals in tobacco smoke linger in the mouth, throat, and lungs, producing an unpleasant odor that is difficult to mask with oral hygiene practices such as brushing, flossing, and mouthwash use. Bad breath can be a significant source of embarrassment and social discomfort for smokers.

Prevention & Treatment:

1.       Quit Smoking.

2.       Take behavior counseling.

3.       Nicotine replacement therapy.

4.       Support groups.

5.       Prescription medications.

6.       Regular dental check-ups.

Quitting smoking is the best way to protect oral health and reduce the risk of associated diseases. By prioritizing oral hygiene and seeking regular dental care, individuals can mitigate the harmful effects of smoking and maintain a healthy smile for years to come. Teeth Care Centre, the top dental clinic in Ahmedabad, always provides the best advice to their patients and guides them towards better oral health.