Enlighten With Hyten

Does Halloween Candy Affect Your Oral Health?

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 19:45:18 GMT

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Foods That Stain: The Top 7 Culprits

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 16:07:45 GMT

Foods That Stain: The Top 7 Culprits

Everyone wants a bright, gleaming smile. While whitening treatments can be an effective solution, you still want to do everything you can to prevent adding unnecessary stains to your teeth. Cosmetic dentistry can be a life-saver, but why create more work for your dentist and darken your smile between treatments more than you need to?

One of the biggest ways you can keep your smile looking fantastic is by avoiding foods that stain your teeth. Here are some of the biggest ones to watch out for.

Coffee

Who doesn’t love a hot cup of coffee in the morning? Unfortunately, coffee contains a chemical compound called tannins. Prolonged exposure to these tannins (in the form of a third cup of coffee to keep you awake during a work meeting) can encourage colors to stick to your teeth.

If you’re serious about preventing stains without sacrificing your caffeine habit, consider switching to iced coffee. Drinking through a straw limits the beverage’s contact with your teeth, which can help reduce stains. (And it’s iced coffee season right now anyway!)

Tea

Tea is a delicious way to get your caffeine along with some health benefits, but unfortunately it can stain your teeth even more than coffee . Black tea is the worst offender, but even herbal and white teas can wear away your enamel and cause stains.

Luckily, there’s a quick change you can make to your afternoon cup of tea that can significantly reduce tea’s staining ability: adding a splash of 2% milk . Researchers believe that casein, one form of protein found in milk, is to thank for this.

Richly-Colored Sauces

Soy sauce, tomato sauce, and curries all have ingredients that can stain your teeth over time. When you can, gravitate toward lighter-colored or creamier sauces, which have less staining power. And when you do indulge, brush your teeth and rinse soon after eating.

Sports Drinks

Exposure to anything acidic can erode your enamel over time. Consider fueling your workouts with water instead – it’s plenty for most workouts anyway.

Red Wine

Unfortunately, your delicious glass of pinot is also very acidic. That means it can roughen and open your enamel, letting your teeth take on the colors of the foods and drinks you consume. Brush your teeth after enjoying your glass of red.

Berries

Darkly-pigmented berries like blackberries, pomegranates, and blueberries can penetrate your teeth’s enamel. This also applies to darkly-pigmented juices like cranberry, beet, grape, and pomegranate.

Candy

Unfortunately, this includes chocolate. But sugary candies with lots of dyes can settle on the enamel. Think about how as a kid, if you ate too many Skittles, your tongue would turn red or blue. It’s the same basic principle.

You might not be able to avoid these foods entirely – and you shouldn’t expect yourself to. They’re delicious and many of them are nutritious. But knowing what foods stain teeth is valuable so you can enjoy them in moderation or take steps to prevent staining. And if all else fails, your dentist is always there to get your teeth back to their bright and shining state.

How to Perfect Your Smile Without Braces

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 15:53:00 GMT

How to Perfect Your Smile Without Braces

Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. When your smile doesn’t look the way you want it to, it can be frustrating. Luckily, if you weren’t born with the smile of your dreams, cosmetic dentistry is full of options to give you a smile that will have you grinning ear to ear.

Veneers

If you want to permanently straighten and whiten your teeth at the same time, veneers might be the perfect option for you. Veneers were originally invented as a quick fix for Hollywood stars’ teeth , but today anyone can get them.

The process involves your dentist fitting thin porcelain sleeves and slipping them over your natural teeth. The sleeves are then permanently cemented in place, giving your smile a whole new look. Veneers can be designed to fix gaps between teeth for a more uniform smile. By covering stained or discolored teeth, veneers are a whitening fix that accomplish what normal cosmetic whitening can’t.

Putting in veneers is a surprisingly quick process, considering it’s also permanent and dramatic. It mostly involves preparing your natural teeth so the veneers fit securely over them. The actual procedure is quick, easy, and painless. You won’t even need down-time to heal.

Composite Bonding

Composite bonding is most often used to repair chipped teeth, but it can be used for aesthetic purposes as well. The process involves adding composite resin or porcelain to your natural teeth to change their shape. For example, if you have a gap between 2 teeth, instead of moving the teeth using braces, your dentist can use bonding to make the teeth a little bit wider to shrink the gap. If you have any unusually-small teeth, composite bonding can give the appearance of uniformity.

Bonding doesn’t require an anesthetic or any healing time afterward. It normally only takes 1 visit to your dentist’s office. Even better, it’s usually more affordable than other cosmetic dental treatments.

Gum Contouring

Also called a gum lift, gum contouring involves reshaping the gums to reveal more of the tooth crown. It’s one of the most common ways to fix a gummy smile. Gummy smiles make the teeth look smaller than they are, which can give a person’s smile a more juvenile look than they may be comfortable with. Gum contouring makes your teeth appear longer without having to change the shape or position of your teeth. It can also give your gumline a more uniform look.

During a gum lift, your dentist uses a local anesthetic to numb your mouth. The procedure most commonly involves using a dental laser. Expect some healing time after, but any soreness or sensitivity should subside within a few days. It’s a quick and dramatic way to shape your smile.

When Are Braces Necessary?

Most people think of braces for cosmetic reasons, but they’re most commonly used to treat improper alignment, which can lead to oral or jaw problems if left untreated. If you truly need braces to fix your alignment, cosmetic fixes won’t replace braces.

But if you just want your smile to shine a bit brighter so your lovely personality can take center stage, then cosmetic fixes may be just what you need. Talk to your dentist about your needs and options. They can guide you in the right direction.

TMJ and Oral Health

Tue, 25 May 2021 17:26:03 GMT

What is the TMJ and how does it affect oral health?

The TMJ (temporomandibular joint) are two joints located on each side of the head that connect the jaw with the skull, specifically with the temporal bone. They allow us to open and close the mouth and the sliding movements of the jaw, so that thanks to them we can speak and chew food.

The TMJ can present a series of problems or ailments known as temporomandibular disorders (TMD) that are of multifactorial origin, that is to say, they can be due to several reasons and among them we have:

-Injuries or trauma to the jaw or face.

-Arthritis, osteoarthritis or any condition that affects the cartilage.

-Alterations in the bite and malocclusions that produce harmful pressures on the TMJ.

-High states of stress which in turn lead to clenching and grinding of the upper and lower teeth (bruxism).

These conditions prevent the TMJ from performing its functions properly, but they not only affect the temporomandibular joint, but also cause damage to the teeth, gums, muscles of mastication and neck, jaw bone, etc.

In addition to this, temporomandibular disorders are accompanied by a wide range of symptoms that can be mild, moderate to severe, constant or appear from time to time, either spontaneously or under a trigger such as stress.

Signs and symptoms include:

· Pain either in the TMJ and/or surrounding areas, such as the temple.

· Pain and tension in the muscles of mastication or neck, which is exacerbated by palpation.

· Limited mouth opening and difficulty/pain in opening the mouth.

· Limited lateral jaw movement.

· Difficulty in closing the mouth.

· Headaches.

· Shoulder, back and neck pain.

· Noises in the ears/tinnitus.

· Bruxism, which increases the tension exerted on the muscles of mastication, which in turn causes inflammation.

· Clicking or grinding noises are perceived when opening and/or closing the mouth.

· Damage to the teeth such as wear of its structure and hypersensitivity.

· Alterations in the bite such as malocclusions and deviations (this causes difficulties when brushing the teeth, which increases the probability of developing tooth decay and periodontal disease).

· Displacement of the articular disc, lesions in the condyle of the jaw.

For the diagnosis of TMJ disorders it is essential for the dentist to take a medical history and ask a series of questions to find out when the symptoms began, the location and intensity of the pain (if any), among others.

An intraoral check-up should also be performed to evaluate the state of the oral structures, to know if there are any interferences in the bite, dental wear, very high restorations, etc. Other elements that are taken into account are the mouth opening and lateral movements of the jaw.

Similarly, the muscles of mastication, face and neck should also be palpated by means of an intraoral and extraoral examination to determine which are the painful areas, which are the trigger points and if there is joint noise (clicking, crunching, etc.).

Among the complementary examinations to reach an accurate diagnosis are imaging studies such as X-ray and MRI, which allow to visualize and evaluate the condition of the jaw (as would be to know if there is damage to the condyle, for example), or cartilage and soft tissues of the TMJ.

Treatments

The procedures to treat TMJ disorders range from conservative treatments to irreversible therapies. The difference between the two is that the first ones do not cause permanent changes in the structure of the TMJ, jaw or teeth, that is, they are not invasive. These can be:

-Pharmacological therapy with painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs or muscle relaxants.

-Psychological therapy to reduce and learn to manage stress and anxiety (closely related to bruxism).

-Physiotherapy, which is based on gentle stretching exercises of the jaw to increase its range of motion and apply massage to painful areas. It also includes hot and cold therapies.

-Stabilization splint, which aims to relax the masticatory muscles, reduce tension in the jaw and prevent wear of the dental structure due to grinding and clenching of the teeth (bruxism).

In relation to irreversible therapy this can be composed of:

-Occlusal adjustment in areas of occlusal interferences.

-Orthodontic treatment (braces) when the temporomandibular disorder is caused by bite problems (malocclusions).

-Surgical treatments such as maxillofacial surgery when the temporomandibular disorder is caused by bone alterations.

Although in many cases TMJ disorders resolve on their own, it is also a reality that they can worsen over time, so if you suspect you have a temporomandibular disorder, it is advisable to see your dentist without further delay, to prevent the condition from worsening and compromising your oral and general health.

Tips for Keeping Braces & Retainers in Good Condition

Tue, 25 May 2021 17:18:37 GMT

Orthodontic Maintenance Tips

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Good Dental Health Habits in Children

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 19:37:51 GMT

How to teach children healthy oral care habits?

Oral hygiene in children is as important as body hygiene, since having good oral care habits favors the health of the teeth and the rest of the structures that make up the mouth.

In addition, having a good oral health allows the correct performance of food chewing, digestion (keep in mind that the digestion process begins with chewing), the phonation of words, etc., in other words, it favors the general health.

Their oral hygiene routine should include the following:

Tooth brushing

The correct way for children to develop the habit of brushing their teeth is to instill it in them from a very early age, as it would be from the moment they get their first tooth, in this way it will become something daily and routine.

They should be taught to brush their teeth when they wake up, after every meal and before going to bed. The idea is that brushing should last at least 2 minutes. As it may be difficult for them to keep their mouth open for so long, they can brush for 10 seconds, pause and continue. And do this until they reach 2 minutes.

Dentists recommend using a toothpaste with fluoride in concentrations of 1,000 to 1,500 ppm, since fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and is an ally in the prevention of caries.

Adults should watch the amount of toothpaste used, as it should not exceed the size of a grain of rice. It makes no difference whether they brush their teeth with a children's toothpaste or an adult toothpaste, as long as they use the indicated amount and the correct concentration of fluoride.

The toothbrush they use should have soft bristles and a small brush head that adapts to the size of their mouth. And when it comes to brushing, we should tell them to exert light pressure and that the movements should not be too fast, this way they will not injure the gums or enamel.

An important point is that brushing should be assisted by an adult until the child is approximately 8 years old, since when they are very young they do not have the necessary motor skills to do it correctly.

A good option is to let them brush themselves first and then let the adult brush their teeth, this way they will learn the correct way to perform the movements.

We must not forget that children learn by imitation, so it is important for them to observe that their caregivers also brush their teeth and take care of their oral health, so it is a good opportunity for parents and children to perform a joint activity that benefits both.

Tooth brushing technique

As adults and caregivers we can teach them 3 very simple movements so that they can correctly eliminate any food and dental plaque, these are:

1. The first is a back and forth sweeping motion on the occlusal surfaces of the teeth, which are the ones used to chew food.

2. The second consists of making circular movements from the area where the tooth meets the gum. This is done on the front side of the teeth, that is, the one we see when children smile.

3. The last movement is a sweep from inside to outside on the back side of the teeth, that is, the one in contact with the tongue and around the palate.

Finally, the tongue is brushed with an outward sweeping motion.

Flossing

Sometimes there may be food debris between the teeth after brushing, one of the reasons being that the space is too narrow for the bristles of the toothbrush to fully penetrate. Therefore, flossing should be used as soon as the child's teeth come into contact. This can be done after every meal or at least before the child goes to bed.

Healthy eating habits

A key factor for the child to achieve good oral health is to avoid excessive consumption of sugars, as these are used by oral bacteria to produce acids that damage tooth enamel, which can eventually lead to the development of tooth decay.

Therefore, as sugar is the essential dietary factor for the formation of cavities, the WHO postulated that it is ideal for children under 2 years of age not to consume it, since this is a period in which they are beginning to form their eating habits and it is preferable that they do not develop a dependence on sugar.

This includes products with added sugars, sweets or candies, fruit concentrates or sweetened juices. In addition, the latter have no fiber and do not provide any nutritional contribution to the body and have large amounts of artificial flavorings.

Regular visits to the dentist

It is advisable for the child to go to the dentist once the first tooth has erupted, regardless of age. In order to achieve good oral health, it is essential that visits are mainly preventive, that is, to avoid the development of any oral disease.

The earlier they visit the pediatric dentist, the faster they will learn the importance of taking care of their teeth and this, in turn, will improve their daily hygiene habits. It is recommended that children visit the dentist once or twice a year, depending on their personal needs.

In order for children not to be reluctant to go to the dentist, it is essential that they have a positive image of them, so adults should try as far as possible not to transmit their fears or anxieties to the dentist, as this could create an erroneous perception in children.

We must bear in mind that the pediatric dentist is the specialist in charge of children's oral health, so this professional has the necessary knowledge to provide them with the best care according to their age and needs. They also have the necessary techniques to adapt the child to the consultation and thus create a bond of trust and collaboration.

In addition to a thorough clinical evaluation of the teeth and surrounding structures, among the procedures for preventive purposes that can be performed by the pediatric dentist we have:

Cleanings , known as prophylaxis. In order to eliminate the accumulation of dental plaque and calculus.

Fluoride therapy . Makes tooth enamel more resistant to acid attack by bacteria. It also remineralizes enamel and reverses the first sign of decay, which is a chalky-looking white spot.

Dental sealants . They create a mechanical barrier that covers the retentive areas of the biting surfaces of molars and premolars. This, in turn, facilitates brushing and prevents food accumulation in the fissures.

Another method used by pediatric dentists when treating children is to first perform non-invasive or complicated procedures so that the child can become accustomed to them. Therefore, it is important that the child attends periodically to treat any possible disease in a timely manner, when its stage is early and therefore its treatment less traumatic.

As we can see, habits for good oral hygiene begin at a very early age, always accompanied by a correct diet and regular visits to the dentist.

Teeth Whitening for Cosmetic Improvement

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 19:31:10 GMT

How teeth whitening can be used in cosmetic dentistry

Let's be honest, one of the main places to which we direct our attention during a conversation is the mouth of our interlocutor and more specifically their teeth, and a white smile always produces a better impression than one with stained teeth.

Dental pigmentations can generate complexes in people who suffer from them because they do not feel comfortable with the state of their teeth, so they avoid laughing or put their hand to their mouth when speaking to cover them. But the worst thing is that their self-esteem and confidence are greatly affected, which can compromise their interpersonal relationships.

This is where cosmetic dentistry comes in, which aims to correct those imperfections that affect the aesthetics of the smile, such as dental pigmentation. And by perfecting oral aesthetics, it also improves the aesthetics of the entire face.

One of the most requested aesthetic procedures and with increasing popularity in recent years is teeth whitening, which is based on the modification of the color of the teeth.

What is teeth whitening?

It is a treatment performed with the objective of eliminating dental pigmentations and stains. To carry it out, non-abrasive and biocompatible whitening substances with dental tissue are used. When performed correctly, it reduces the color of the teeth by several shades, making them look whiter.

In which cases is it indicated?

Teeth whitening can be performed in those stains and discolorations resulting from the ingestion of dark carbonated beverages, coffee, tea and/or red wine. It is also a consequence of aging, prolonged use of the oral antiseptic Chlorhexidine, drugs such as tetracyclines, blows or fractures in the teeth, root canals, smoking, among others.

How is teeth whitening performed?

Currently there is a wide range of teeth whitening procedures, the main ones being:

In-office procedure

First of all, for whitening to be feasible, the patient must have a completely healthy oral cavity, that is, free of diseases such as tooth decay and periodontal disease.

To perform the procedure, a whitening agent, which can be hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, is applied to the front surface of the anterior teeth after isolating and protecting the surrounding soft tissues.

Another option is light or power bleaching, in which after applying the hydrogen peroxide whitening gel, the teeth are exposed to a light source (LED or halogen) for a few minutes to accelerate the whitening process.

It is a dental treatment that is not painful, although there are some people who may experience dental and gingival sensitivity, so it should be performed following the manufacturer's instructions to the letter.

At-home procedure

In this procedure, the patient performs the whitening at home following the dentist's instructions. A custom-made tray (to avoid contact with the gums and possible injury) is used to apply the whitening agent carbamide peroxide.

There are other products available on the market whose purpose is to whiten teeth, such as toothpastes and strips, but most of them are not as effective as whitening performed by a dentist.

Please note that teeth whitening should only be performed and supervised by a dentist, since its indication is performed following a protocol of clinical evaluation, diagnosis and planning of the procedure, in relation to the condition of each patient.

How often can it be performed?

The effects of whitening can last from several months to years, much will depend on the care taken by the patient in the maintenance stage. Therefore, you should follow measures such as brushing your teeth properly after every meal and moderating/avoiding the consumption of foods and beverages with a lot of coloring.

Tooth whitening treatment can also be accompanied and enhanced with the performance of other minimally invasive oral aesthetic procedures, these are:

Gingivectomy, in which the gingival margin of anterior teeth is reshaped to increase the length of their crown, thus achieving a more proportionate and aesthetic size.

Contouring of incisal edges, in this treatment only the incisal part of the anterior teeth is contoured (with composite) to modify their length and shape.

It should be taken into account that dental restorations such as composites and crowns do not suffer the effect of dental whitening, so when both treatments (whitening and restoration) are indicated in a patient, whitening should be performed first and then the restoration.

As we can see, teeth whitening is a very viable and affordable option for those who want to improve and enhance their smile and facial aesthetics without having to undergo more invasive dental procedures. After the procedure, they look younger and project more self-confidence.

Oral Health Tips

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 19:58:07 GMT

Oral Health Tips

Good oral hygiene habits are essential to maintain healthy teeth and gums. In turn, by having oral health we favor the performance of the functions of chewing and digestion of food.

First of all, we must be clear about the concept of oral health , which is the absence of any disease or injury that affects the integrity of the teeth, gums and other structures that make up the oral cavity.

These diseases, besides producing pain, also affect the chewing function, the phonation of words and the digestion process (which begins with the chewing of food and the formation of the bolus), etc.

This is why it is important to learn and maintain proper oral hygiene habits that are adapted to our needs, systemic and oral condition, etc. The good news is that to achieve the above you can put into practice the following tips and recommendations:

It is necessary to brush our teeth when we wake up, after every meal and before going to sleep. It is recommended that we brush for at least 2 minutes, use a fluoride toothpaste and a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small head to have better access to the back teeth. Tooth brushing should be done by exerting light pressure on the teeth to remove food debris. Care should be taken that this pressure is not excessive since it can damage the dental enamel and gums.

We must not forget to use dental floss , since it is the fundamental complement after tooth brushing. It should be used after every meal or at least once a day before going to bed to remove food debris that is trapped between the teeth and at the gum margin and that cannot be removed by the bristles of the toothbrush. In addition to the above, we can use a mouthwash , which is indicated to eliminate bacteria and help control dental plaque and dental calculus deposits.

We must keep in mind that a proper tooth brushing technique helps prevent the development of dental caries and periodontal diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis, which cause inflammation, redness and bleeding of the gums. If we observe that our gums bleed when brushing or spontaneously, this is due to inflammation caused by the accumulation of dental plaque. This is a condition that, if not treated in time, can lead to the destruction of the structures that surround and support the teeth.

Since oral health is reflected in the general state of the whole organism, lifestyle changes should also be made when necessary: it is essential to drink a good amount of water during the day and we should also avoid the consumption of food containing high amounts of sugar, since it is the main cause of the development of dental caries (which is enhanced by poor oral hygiene). At the same time, consuming very acidic foods too often can erode and weaken tooth enamel.

Smoking should be avoided because the heat, the smoke produced and the substances released are harmful to the health of oral tissues.

Bad breath can result from the accumulation of food debris and bacterial deposits on the teeth, gums, tongue and cheeks, or by oral or systemic diseases. It can be treated by practicing proper brushing technique, flossing and visiting the dentist periodically for a thorough dental cleaning.

In those patients who clench or grind their teeth when sleeping it is necessary to use mouthguards, which prevent wear and loss of dental tissue (which in advanced stages causes pain and sensitivity when chewing and / or ingesting hot or cold drinks) and reduce the tension of the muscles involved in chewing.

With respect to people who suffer from dental anxiety, it is recommended that they go to a dentist who is academically well trained and with whom they feel comfortable and can establish effective communication. Likewise, it is important not to postpone visits to the dentist since it is preferable to treat conditions when they are beginning to develop and therefore the treatment to be performed is less invasive and complex.

And last but not least, we should visit the dentist at least twice a year, so that they can evaluate our oral health status and perform preventive treatments such as a dental cleaning or restorative treatments like removing tooth decay.

Tooth Extraction

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 16:38:27 GMT

TOOTH EXTRACTIONS

A tooth extraction is a procedure by which one or more teeth are removed from their dental alveolus (socket), that is, from the bone that surrounds and supports them. There are several reasons why a tooth extraction is indicated, some of them may be:

· Advanced caries with considerable loss of tooth tissue, where it is no longer possible to keep the tooth in the mouth.

· Destruction of the bone surrounding the affected tooth.

· Lack of space in the dental arch.

· When it is no longer feasible to perform a restorative treatment in the tooth.

· Fractures or complicated trauma.

· Advanced periodontal disease where there is very pronounced tooth mobility.

· Supernumerary teeth (when there are one or more additional teeth in the oral cavity).

· Teeth associated with tumors and cysts.

· Partially erupted tooth, as is usually the case of third molars.

It is important to mention that tooth extractions are usually the last resort used by dentists when treating an infected tooth. They usually opt first for more conservative treatments that are intended to keep the tooth in the mouth, such as a dental restoration or root canal treatment.

When these options fail or due to the characteristics and progression of the lesion are no longer viable, is when it is decided to perform tooth extraction also called exodontia.

Before the dentist performs the extraction, it will first indicate blood tests such as hematology, x-rays and will inquire about the patient's medical history. This in order to evaluate that there is no medical condition that could compromise the performance of the extraction.

Likewise, with x-rays it is possible to study the position of the tooth (vertical, horizontal, inclined) in relation to the surrounding bone and neighboring teeth. It also allows to know the length and shape of the tooth root or roots (convergent or divergent), and thus determine the level of complexity of the procedure.

Dental extractions can be:

Simple, in which the tooth is visible in the mouth (no longer under the gums) so it is easily accessible. It is usually performed in cases of advanced caries, trauma or lack of space in the arch (an example of this is when the patient is about to start orthodontic treatment).

Surgical, is performed on teeth that have not yet broken through the gum line or those that have fractured below the gum line, when the roots are curved, etc. Here the dentist must make an incision in the gum surrounding the tooth and even remove a small portion of bone to access it.

How they are performed?

Days before the intervention, some dentists prescribe antibiotics to their patients to prevent the development of bacterial infections.

At the time of extraction, the first thing that is done is to infiltrate local anesthesia, which depending on the patient's preferences may or may not be accompanied by conscious sedation.

If the tooth is still under the gum, a procedure called a flap is performed, in which an incision is made in the gum to separate the mucosa and connective tissue covering the tooth. A small portion of the alveolar bone is then cut away so that the tooth is exposed and can be extracted.

If the anatomy of the tooth requires it, the dentist may perform another step called odontosection, in which the tooth is divided into several parts to facilitate its extraction.

In cases where the tooth is completely visible, after anesthesia, the dentist proceeds to separate it from the ligaments that hold it to the bone. The tooth is then loosened with an instrument called an elevator and then a series of careful but firm movements are made from one side to the other with an instrument called forceps in order to extract the tooth from the socket.

Once the tooth has been extracted, the socket is irrigated with physiological saline solution and a gentle curettage is performed to favor blood irrigation and the formation of the clot. And in those patients in whom a flap has been made, the wound area should be sutured.

After the intervention, it is essential that the patient follows the indications given by the dentist, since all oral surgery procedures can lead to minor or major complications. It is also a way of minimizing inflammation and avoiding the development of infections or the opening of the stitches.

Postoperative indications:

-Stick to analgesic treatment.

-Bite the gauze over the surgical area for 30 minutes.

-Do not spit or make sucking movements as this may dislodge the blood clot.

-Perform oral hygiene in the area involved with care.

-Do not smoke for at least 7 days after the procedure since the smoke generated delays healing.

In case the patient presents prolonged or severe pain, bleeding or fever, the dentist should be consulted immediately.

Dentures, Their Characteristics and Benefits

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 20:08:15 GMT

Dentures to Replace Missing or Removed Teeth

Dentures are devices intended to replace a patient's missing teeth. This loss may be the result of extensive caries, dental trauma, advanced periodontal disease or failed root canals treatments that resulted in the need to perform a tooth extraction.

Dentures or dental prostheses are made of a variety of materials such as acrylic, plastic, metal, porcelain, etc. And depending on their characteristics, they are more or less similar to natural tooth tissue and gums.

Among the reasons for which the use of dental prosthesis is indicated to a patient are:

· To restore masticatory function.

· Improve phonetics.

· Avoid the development of dental occlusion alterations such as crowding. This is due to the fact that a tooth will always seek contact with an adjacent tooth, which is why dental migrations occur.

· Improve dental and facial aesthetics and in turn enhance the patient's confidence and self-esteem.

· Some prostheses are indicated to correct the shape and position of the teeth. And also to strengthen the remaining tooth structure after a cavity or fracture.

Dentures can be intended to replace one tooth, several of them or all teeth. And that is why there are different types of prostheses, which are adapted to the needs and requirements of each patient.

Mainly prostheses are divided into two categories:

Fixed prosthesis

As its name indicates, it is fixed to the remaining structure of the tooth and is not removed (unless this is necessary due to a specific circumstance: poor adaptation, injury to the surrounding soft tissues, etc.). They are usually durable and comfortable.

This prosthesis can be placed on natural teeth or on the abutment of a dental implant. Here you will find:

- Dental crowns: Are usually used after root canal treatment (especially in posterior teeth) or in cases of considerable loss of dental tissue due to caries or fracture. For their placement there must be a good crown-root proportion. Among the most commonly used crowns are those made of metal-ceramic.

In addition to restoring the affected tooth, they provide protection in teeth with high sensitivity due to a great loss of enamel. They are also used when a composite restoration is not feasible.

- Dental bridges: Which replace one or more teeth and are made up of at least two crowns. The bridge is cemented on the teeth adjacent to the missing teeth.

-Fixed prosthesis on dental implants: In this case the prosthesis -which can be a crown or a bridge- is not placed on a natural tooth but on the abutment of a dental implant, which is a titanium screw-shaped device whose function is to serve as a dental root, which is why it is used in cases of missing teeth.

Removable prosthesis

Unlike the fixed prosthesis, this one has the possibility of being removed every day, which facilitates its cleaning. Its use may be indicated in those patients who due to lack of bone support are not suitable for dental implants and also because it is a more economical option.

They should be cleaned at least once a day and should be removed to sleep in order to allow the tissues to rest from the pressure that the prosthesis can exert. They are custom-made and adapted to the patient's anatomy so that it does not move or dislodge.

Removable prostheses can be partial or complete:

-Removable partial prosthesis: Is attached to the neighboring teeth of the edentulous space (known as abutment teeth). They are indicated for patients who have lost some of their teeth. They can be made of metal-resin.

-Removable complete prosthesis: Unlike the previous one, it is indicated when the patient is totally edentulous, that is to say, there is absence of all the teeth of one or both dental arches.

Its fixation is not through the oral hard tissues (teeth) but in the mucosal tissues. Although it should be noted that this type of prosthesis can also be used in conjunction with the use of at least three dental implants, which is known as overdenture.

In order to determine the most appropriate type of denture for a patient, the prosthodontist must first perform a thorough examination of the oral cavity, and thus know the conditions in which their structures are.

In addition to this, it will indicate radiographic studies to evaluate the state of the dental roots and/or the bone that supports the teeth. With this, the dentist is in a position to make a correct diagnosis and will be able to propose the most appropriate treatment.

After this, it will take impressions of the patient's mouth, in order to obtain a cast model that replicates their structures and serve as a guide for the realization of the denture, and that is why it is manufactured based on the characteristics of each patient so that it adapts correctly to the tissues without dislodging.

The base of the prosthesis is usually made of acrylic, which when it is well polished is similar to gum tissue, giving it a fairly natural appearance.

A properly fabricated and well-fitted denture largely prevents the development of long-term problems such as inflammation of the surrounding tissues. This can also be avoided with an adequate daily routine of oral and denture hygiene and following the recommendations of the dentist.

Likewise, the use of cleaning tablets for removable prostheses that combat the action of microorganisms and eliminate stains is usually indicated. Also, the patient should have regular check-ups, especially in the case of fixed prostheses that cannot be removed for cleaning.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 17:50:12 GMT

Use of Dental Veneers in Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry aims to correct those imperfections or alterations that affect oral esthetics. Although it is mainly focused on perfecting the smile of patients, it also seeks to ensure that the soft tissues surrounding the tooth, i.e. the gums, are healthy and in good condition.

The importance of cosmetic dentistry lies in the fact that, by bringing harmony to the patient's smile, it also achieves a balance between the elements that make up the oral cavity and the facial structures, thus improving the patient's overall appearance.

Among the reasons for which a patient's dental esthetics may be affected are:

· Dental caries.

· Trauma or fractures.

· Diastema, which is a space or gap between two adjacent teeth.

· Dental absences, whether they are due to dental extractions or congenital.

· Tooth discolorations due to the consumption of coffee, red wine or dark carbonated beverages.

· Alterations in the size and shape of the teeth, where they may be tilted to one side, front or back, or smaller than neighboring teeth.

· Gummy smile.

In addition to compromising masticatory function, phonation and esthetics, these alterations also affect self-esteem and can produce complexes and insecurities in those who suffer from them, thus affecting their quality of life and overall health.

There are several treatments carried out in order to improve facial aesthetics, these can be:

● Restorations with materials of high aesthetics and good properties of resistance and durability.

● Clinical or ambulatory dental whitening, in which substances are used to eliminate the pigmentations of the dental enamel.

● Fixed or removable prostheses, such as crowns, bridges, partial or complete dentures. These reproduce the structure of natural teeth, thus restoring function and esthetics.

● Dental implants, which have excellent esthetic properties and resistance to adequately reproduce the shape and function of lost teeth.

● Gingivectomy, which aims to achieve a more proportionate size of the tooth in relation to its length and width. To achieve this, the gingival margin is reshaped, thus increasing the height of the dental crown.

One of the most popular treatments in recent years are veneers, which correct discolorations, wear, trauma, diastema and alterations in the shape of the teeth.

Veneers are very thin layers that can be placed on the tooth directly or indirectly, and are located on the front surface of the front teeth. Depending on the way they are placed, they can be made of composite or porcelain.

Porcelain veneers are made to fit the patient's teeth by a laboratory technician, that is, they are made indirectly. They are then bonded to the tooth tissue by means of adhesive systems.

The advantages of porcelain veneers include the following:

-High esthetics in the long term, since ceramics allow a good transmission of light and achieve an excellent similarity with the natural tissues of the tooth, which is why they tend to go unnoticed.

-Good resistance to fracture, wear (they are resistant to attack by chemical substances, acids and solvents such as alcohol) and to pigmentation by coffee, tea and tobacco. The latter is due to the fact that the surface of the porcelain does not have micro porosities.

-Corrects occlusal deficiencies such as those generated in the presence of short teeth (microdontia) and / or alterations in the alignment of the teeth.

-Minimally invasive technique, and thanks to the new adhesive systems, the dental preparation to be performed for its placement is quite conservative.

-It helps to strengthen the remaining dental structure after a fracture, dental caries or in cases of wear due to bruxism (clenching and / or rubbing of the upper teeth with the lower teeth).

-It enhances the patient's self-esteem.

On the other hand, highly esthetic composite veneers are made by the dentist directly on the surface of the tooth. They are usually indicated when the correction to be made is not very extensive.

Among its advantages we have:

-It is a quick procedure, so they are performed in a single visit to the dentist.

-The procedure is easier and has the possibility of being corrected or reshaped if necessary.

-They have a lower cost.

-Good esthetic results.

-Minimally invasive treatment because it does not require extensive grinding of the tooth enamel.

Although it is an excellent option to change the color, shape and position of teeth, this technique has certain disadvantages in relation to ceramic veneers:

-They have a lower resistance to wear and tear and less durability.

-They require continuous maintenance.

-They are susceptible to pigmentation with the passage of time, especially in those patients who smoke or drink coffee or wine very frequently.

These treatments, when performed correctly, achieve beneficial changes in the color, shape and position of the teeth, favoring the esthetics and dental and facial harmony of the patient. They also achieve stability in the contact between the upper and lower teeth during closing and chewing.

The dentist will evaluate parameters such as the shape and size of the teeth, amount of healthy dental tissue available, shape of the face, sex and age to determine which procedure is the most appropriate for each patient.

Dental implants, an alternative for the replacement of missing teeth

Fri, 21 Aug 2020 14:47:28 GMT

In addition to compromising aesthetics, missing teeth can also cause the migration of neighboring teeth, compromising the image and chewing function. An alternative to this problem is the placement of dental implants.

What are dental implants?

A dental implant is a metal (titanium) screw-shaped device, whose function is to replace the root of a missing tooth. It is attached to the jawbone and then a dental prosthesis is placed on top of it (usually a ceramic crown).

This device, in conjunction with the prosthesis that is anchored on it, is used to replace teeth when there are one or more absences due to an oral pathology (e.g. very extensive caries whose only viable treatment was tooth extraction ) or trauma.

Its purpose is to achieve oral rehabilitation by restoring lost teeth in order to recover functionality, health and aesthetics, since they adequately reproduce the appearance of natural teeth.

The implants act as a prosthetic abutment, in which fixed ceramic restorations ( crowns or bridges ) are positioned, or they are also a means of fixing the total prosthesis, becoming an implant supported total prosthesis.

In contrast with the removable total prosthesis, since it is placed in a fixed way it ensures a better adjustment and retention, avoiding the removal or displacement that can occur with the removable prosthesis, it also provides greater comfort and safety to the patient.

Benefits

• Excellent aesthetic properties in conjunction with the crown or total prosthesis.

• Restores dento-facial harmony.

• Restore masticatory function.

• Favors the phonation of words.

• Good fixing and retention capacity.

• Resistance and durability.

• Returns the contour of the tissues.

• Avoid further bone loss (bone resorption) in the area of missing teeth due to lack of stimulation.

• Prevents dental migrations of neighboring teeth into the edentulous space which generates alterations in the bite (dental mal-positions, crowding) and in the way the upper and lower teeth mesh.

How is its fixation?

The union of the implant to the bone is achieved through a process called osseointegration, in which there is direct contact between the implant and the bone, that is, without having soft tissue between them, unlike the natural union between the tooth and the bone tissue where the ligaments are interposed.

Once the tissues have healed and after a period of time that lasts approximately 4 months, it is guaranteed that this device is correctly anchored, providing an excellent fixation for which it is already suitable for positioning the rest of the prosthetic apparatus on it.

As mentioned above, the dental implant is positioned and inserted into the bone by means of a surgical intervention (under conscious sedation/anesthesia), so it is essential that there is a good quantity and quality of jawbone before the implant is placed.

If this is not the case, the specialist can resort to performing a bone graft prior to placing the equipment to increase the height and width of the bone so that there can be a good support.

Also, it is necessary that the soft tissues that will surround the implant are healthy, this in order to avoid complications in the healing process, and/or the proliferation of microorganisms that lead to an infection. Therefore, it is important to take a multidisciplinary approach and work hand in hand with a periodontist.

The procedure for placing a dental implant is simple and does not involve any major complications (it also depends on the situation of each patient and the expertise and skill of the specialist dentist), lasting approximately 30 minutes in the case of a single implant.

An important fact to take into account is that despite being an artificial element, it is equally important to have an adequate oral hygiene in order to avoid the accumulation of food remains and bacteria in the tissue that is in contact with the implant, which could generate irritation and inflammation of the gum and this in turn could compromise the state of the implant.

The oral hygiene routine must be integrated by a correct tooth brushing technique plus the use of dental floss. In other words, exactly the same as with your natural teeth, which is why it does not require any major maintenance, apart from periodic visits to the dentist not only to evaluate the state of the implant but also of the entire oral cavity.

Following the above recommendation also extends and promotes the durability of the dental implant, which itself has a considerably longer lifespan.

A dental implant is not only a device that allows to recover the aesthetics of the smile, it also restores the oral health and therefore promotes a better quality of life for the patient.

If you are missing teeth and are interested in prosthetic rehabilitation through implants, here at Dr. Hyten's dental office we have the most qualified staff to offer you guidance and the best treatment according to your needs and clinical history.

We invite you to visit us, we are waiting for you! If this blog was helpful please feel free to share with others.