Advancements in modern tools and techniques make root canal therapy today a painless procedure. A root canal is now very similar to having a cavity filled by your dentist.

Key takeaways:

• The tools a dentist uses for a root canal today are specially designed for the procedure and are high-precision to minimize the impact on your teeth.
• A local anesthesia is used to numb the tooth prior to a root canal to make the procedure painless, although the area may feel sore afterwards.
• It is far more common today to apply a dental crown after a root canal to help protect the tooth from further complications.

“In addition, dentists now have microscopes to properly see inside the tooth and ensure it is fully cleaned out before sealing the chamber. The contemporary instruments dentists use also allow them to finish the root canal in a much shorter period of time and with higher success rates.”

Read the full story here

https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/how-has-root-canal-therapy-advanced-over-the-years/

Our tongues can tell us a lot about our health and general well-being. So how can we check our tongues for signs and symptoms of illnesses? 

Key takeaways:

• A red or shiny-looking tongue could signify that you lack enough iron or Vitamin B.

• A tongue with creamy white patches could indicate that you have a condition called oral thrush.

• A tongue that feels fuzzy or appear yellow can be the result of poor oral hygiene.

Visit your dentist regularly and when brushing your teeth, remember to gently clean your tongue.

For more, read here https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/what-your-tongue-can-tell-you-about-your-dental-health/

As we age, our smile can suffer — as chipped, stained or missing teeth can make you appear much older. Some people become self-conscious, avoid smiling or having photographs taken. 

Fortunately, there are some things you can do to keep your teeth healthy. There are also cosmetic options you can consider if you need to restore your smile.

Key takeaways:

– Reduce enamel erosion by reducing the sugary foods you eat — and remember to brush twice a day.

– Your teeth remain strong if you look after them — so maintain a regular schedule of check-ups with your dentist.

– Be careful with crunchy or hard foods, ice or sweets, as they can cause a chipped tooth

– See your dentist for advice if you grind your teeth

If your teeth and smile seem to have aged, ask your dentist about professional teeth whitening, or suitable cosmetic options like veneers to restore your youthful smile.

Full article:

https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/smile-reveal-age/

Mouthguards are common sporting equipment and are useful in protecting teeth and gums from damage. Available in most sports shops, they are relatively inexpensive — but there are distinct advantages to be had in paying a little more for a custom-made mouthguard. 

There are many benefits in having a dentist construct a customised mouthguard as they:

• Are more comfortable to wear as they are created to match your teeth and bite

• Offer a higher protection level against the effects of impact on the teeth

• Can considerably reduce the risk of getting a concussion

Custom-made mouthguards are also very helpful for people who suffer from teeth-grinding as they are a perfect fit for each individual mouth.

Read more at https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/why-is-a-custom-mouthguard-better-than-store-bought/

Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth, but traditional dental implants may not be a suitable option for everyone. Mini dental implants may provide a solution if cost or bone density is an issue. 

As the name suggests, mini implants are much smaller than traditional implants and the method of attachment is non-invasive. This means that healing time is faster and fewer trips to the dentist are needed.

Key takeaways:

• Mini implants are suitable for people who have a lower bone density in their jaw.

• Mini implants are less expensive that traditional dental implants.

• Mini implants can be inserted in a day, so you have results very quickly.

Mini dental implants have the same benefits over dentures that traditional implants have. They provide a secure and permanent option to replace missing teeth. Ask your dentist if mini dental implants are a suitable option to restore your smile.

More here:

https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/when-are-mini-dental-implants-the-best-option/

Your dentist will likely install a temporary crown while you wait for a custom-made dental crown. Dental crowns take around two weeks to make, and in the meantime a temporary crown is used to help protect the tooth.

Key takeaways:

• When possible, avoid chewing on the side of the mouth where the temporary crown is, as the cement used is not as durable.
• Try to avoid sticky or hard foods like candy, gum, nuts and crunchy bread, which risk dislodging your temporary crown.
• Continue to gently brush your teeth, preferably using a manual toothbrush rather than an electric toothbrush as it can be gentler.

“If you have any issues with your temporary dental crown, or if your crown becomes loose or even falls out, don’t wait to call your dentist, and don’t try to make it until your appointment for the placement of the permanent crown.”

Read the full story here

https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/how-to-care-for-a-temporary-crown/

Sleep apnoea is a chronic condition in which airways are blocked intermittently during sleep — greatly reducing oxygen flow to the body and brain. 

It’s a serious condition that can lead to heart disease, diabetes and stroke. Loud snoring is a primary symptom of sleep apnoea.

Do you suffer from sleep apnoea? If so, an orthodontist or dentist may be able to help. There are times when this condition can result from teeth that become temporarily misaligned during the overnight hours. 

As a result, the position of your tongue changes and temporarily impedes your breathing. There are still a handful of options to consider. Let us examine some possibilities:

• An orthodontist can provide a sleep apnoea screening.
• Mouthguards can be used to adjust the position of your teeth.
• A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine may help to keep your airways open.

“Remember that your orthodontist can screen you for sleep apnoea.”

Learn more here:

https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/can-orthodontics-treat-your-sleep-apnea/

Genetics may have an impact on oral health, with a family history of an oral condition placing you at an increased risk. However, maintaining good oral health habits, including regular dentist appointments, will have a larger impact on the health of your teeth and gums.

Key takeaways:

• A family history of gum disease is one of a number of risk factors for the condition, as you are more likely to have the bacteria which contributes to gum disease.
• Bacteria which may cause tooth decay could be passed on to children through shared utensils, but diet and oral health care will be a more significant factor.
• Tooth enamel formation is influenced by genetics, and therefore it is possible to be at increased risk from cavities due to hereditary reasons.

“As with gum disease, shared environmental factors such as diet and lack of fluoride are more likely to contribute to the formation of cavities than genetics.”

Read the full story here

https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/is-poor-oral-health-hereditary/

A dental hygienist and a dental assistant are two separate roles within a dental practice, both helping to support the dentist. Each role performs different tasks in assisting the dentist in the overall care of the patient’s teeth and gum health.

Key takeaways:

• A dental assistant will assist a dentist during procedures which includes prepping the required instruments, while also being responsible for administrative tasks within the practice.
• A dental hygienist works directly with the patients and can carry out tasks such as teeth cleanings, periodontal exams and taking x-rays.
• The dentist is the only professional in a practice who can diagnose oral health issues and perform procedures like cavities, teeth extractions and restorative dental work.

“Dental hygienists must be licensed and graduate from an accredited program for dental hygienists to practice. These professionals can apply fluoride and sealants and monitor your dental health for signs of disease.”

Read the full story here

https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/whats-the-difference-between-a-dental-hygienist-and-dental-assistant/