Sports injuries and automotive collisions can sometimes impact the mouth with such force that it causes severe dental trauma. Some of these cases are so severe that a dentist like Dr. Aaron Bushong simply cannot save the affected teeth with a root canal or crown.
In a case this severe, the dentist might need to perform an emergency extraction to remove the tooth. This will help to alleviate the pain and prevent further complications. After the gums have fully healed, Dr. Bushong can help you understand your options for restoring or replacing your missing teeth. If you are averse to the oral surgery required for a dental implant or an implant-supported bridge, Dr. Bushong and his team might recommend a partial denture. A partial denture is a removable dental appliance that will be designed to effectively mimic the appearance and function of your missing teeth. It will be firmly set into a pink base that is designed to match the natural shape and appearance of your gum tissue. The partial denture might also include hardware to lock it in place with the adjacent teeth.
If you live in the Wausau, Wisconsin, area and have just suffered a severe dental trauma, you should not delay in calling 715-842-3933 to seek treatment at Wausau Smiles.
People often say, “Flossing is essential for good oral health,” but let’s be honest: not everyone likes the way flossing is usually done. Many people find it hard to floss every day, whether it’s because it takes too long, feel weird using string floss, or are just plain uncomfortable. There are options to flossing that can still help you keep your smile healthy, which is good news. This blog post will talk about five options to brushing for people who really don’t like it.
1. Brushes for between your teeth
These are small, cone-shaped brushes that are used to clean the spaces between your teeth. They are also called interproximal brushes. They come in different sizes to fit different spaces between teeth. It can be very helpful for people who have braces, bridges, or big gaps between their teeth (gaps). It’s simple to use them, and they get food and gunk out from between teeth well.
To Use: Put the toothbrush between your teeth slowly and move it back and forth. Do not push too hard, as this could hurt your gums or teeth.
2. Flossers for water
Oral irrigators are another name for water flossers. They use a stream of water to clean between your teeth and along the gumline. They get rid of food particles and germs well, and people with braces, tooth implants, or sensitive gums should use them more often.
How to Use It: Put water in the tank and pick a pressure setting that feels good to you. Make sure you get all of the places between your teeth and along the gumline with the water stream.
3. Fluff Picks
Instead of string floss, floss picks are easy to use and carry around. They have a small plastic handle with two hooks that hold a short piece of floss. Floss picks are popular with people who don’t like the fine motor skills needed for standard flossing because they are easy to use.
In order to use the floss pick, hold the handle and move the floss slowly up and down between your teeth to clean them all.
4. Tape for your teeth
Dental tape is like regular floss, but it’s wider and flatter. People with sensitive gums or bigger gaps between their teeth may find it easier to use. String floss can cut into your gums, but dental tape is softer and less likely to do that.
How to Use: To use, gently slide the dental tape between your teeth like you would regular floss. Then, clean the places between your teeth by moving it up and down.
5. Picks that are soft
Soft picks are bendable tools with rubber tips that are used to clean between teeth and touch the gums. They are a great alternative for people who have trouble using regular floss because of sensitive teeth, dental work, or problems with handling. Soft picks come in different sizes to fit gaps between teeth.
To Use: Put the soft pick between your teeth and move it back and forth slowly to remove food and plaque and massage your gums.
In conclusion
If you don’t like brushing, you don’t have to do it every day to keep your smile healthy. There are different ways to clean between your teeth and along the gumline besides brushing. The most important thing is to find the method that works best for you and your health needs. No matter which option you choose, remember that constant brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are necessary to get and keep a healthy smile. Don’t let the fact that you don’t like brushing stop you from taking care of your teeth—try one of these options!
Oral cancer, while sometimes overlooked by more common cancers, is a severe health issue that affects thousands of people each year. This blog article attempts to shine light on this sometimes overlooked health concern by discussing crucial topics such as risk factors, symptoms, early identification, and prevention. Understanding oral cancer is the first step towards successful prevention and management.
The Fundamentals of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer, often known as mouth cancer, can appear in the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and throat, among other places in the oral cavity. It is often caused by squamous cells that line these sites. These dangerous cells can grow uncontrolled, resulting in tumor development. While not as extensively addressed as other malignancies, mouth cancer can be fatal if not discovered and treated early.
Understanding the Dangers
A person’s chance of acquiring oral cancer can be increased by a number of variables. These risk variables must be recognized since they can influence your approach to prevention and early detection:
1. Tobacco Use: Smoking cigarettes and using smokeless tobacco products increases the risk of mouth cancer substantially. Tobacco carcinogens can harm the cells of the mouth and throat.
2. Excessive and Prolonged Alcohol intake: Excessive and prolonged alcohol intake is a known risk factor, and when paired with tobacco use, the risk increases.
3. Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Certain HPV strains are linked to an increased risk of developing oropharyngeal cancer, which affects the back of the throat and tonsils.
4. Sun Exposure: Prolonged sun exposure, especially without sufficient lip protection, might raise the risk of lip cancer.
5. Poor Diet: A diet poor in fruits and vegetables might deplete the body of important nutrients that defend against cancer.
6. Age and Gender: Oral cancer is more common in older people, and males are twice as likely as women to acquire it.
Identifying Symptoms
Early identification is critical in the treatment of oral cancer. Knowing possible warning signals can make all the difference.
1. Mouth Sores: Mouth sores that do not heal within two weeks should be taken seriously.
2. Red or White spots: Unexplained red or white spots on the tongue or mouth lining should be evaluated by a doctor.
3. Lumps or Thickenings: Any lumps or thickenings in the mouth, neck, or throat that are unexplained should be evaluated as soon as possible.
4. Trouble Swallowing or Speaking: Persistent trouble swallowing, chewing, or moving the tongue or jaw may indicate a problem.
5. Numbness: If you have prolonged numbness in any region of your mouth or face, don’t ignore it.
6. Unexplained Bleeding: Unexplained bleeding in the mouth requires a careful examination, especially if it persists.
Oral Cancer Prevention
Treatment is always preferable to prevention. Here are some things you can do to lower your chance of developing mouth cancer:
1. Stop Smoking and Using Tobacco: This is the single most effective approach to lowering your risk.
2. Limit Alcohol Consumption: Drink in moderation if you wish to drink. Abstinence is the most secure option.
3. Healthy Diet: Include fruits and vegetables in your diet since they are high in antioxidants, which can help prevent cancer. Limit your intake of processed meals and sweets.
4. Safe Sun Exposure: Wear a wide-brimmed hat and minimize excessive sun exposure, particularly during peak hours.
5. Frequent check-ups: Schedule frequent dental check-ups and self-exams to spot any problems early.
Conclusion
Oral cancer is less often acknowledged than other malignancies, yet its consequences can be terrible. Understanding the dangers, recognizing the symptoms, and taking a proactive approach to prevention may all have a significant impact. By taking these precautions and advocating for your own health, you can reduce your chances of developing oral cancer and contribute to early discovery, which is critical for effective treatment and recovery. Your commitment to oral health and knowledge can save lives.
Mouthguards are a staple in the world of dentistry, and for good reason. Though often associated with athletes, they serve a broader purpose than just shielding against sports-related injuries. Whether you’re a professional sports player, a weekend warrior, or someone grappling with nighttime teeth grinding, mouthguards offer invaluable protection.
Why Use a Mouthguard?
A mouthguard, as its name suggests, is a protective device that covers the teeth and gums to prevent and reduce injury to the teeth, arches, lips, and gums. A variety of risks can be mitigated using these devices:
1. Sports: Dental injuries are among the most common type of facial injury in sports. For those involved in contact sports like football, hockey, or boxing, and even non-contact sports where falls or contact with equipment is possible, such as gymnastics or skating, mouthguards are essential. They cushion blows that could cause broken teeth, injuries to the lips and tongue, and even jaw fractures.
2. Bruxism: Nighttime teeth grinding, or bruxism, can wear down teeth, leading to sensitivity, chipping, and other dental problems. Mouthguards can protect teeth from this unintentional grinding.
3. TMJ Disorders: Some people use mouthguards to alleviate symptoms of TMJ disorders or to prevent the clenching that can cause or exacerbate TMJ pain.
Benefits of Wearing a Mouthguard
1. Protection from Costly Dental Repairs: Treating dental injuries can be expensive. A cracked or knocked-out tooth can lead to procedures like root canals, crowns, or even dental implants. In comparison, mouthguards are a cost-effective way to prevent these injuries.
2. Prevention of Severe Injuries: A blow to the lower face can transmit force to the upper face, potentially leading to more severe injuries. Mouthguards help absorb and distribute the force of a blow.
3. Prevent Tooth Movement: For those who’ve had orthodontic treatment, a mouthguard can help prevent unintentional tooth movement, especially during high-impact sports.
4. Better Sleep: For those using mouthguards due to bruxism, the device can lead to a more restful sleep by preventing grinding and the associated discomfort.
Types of Mouthguards
1. Stock Mouth Protectors: Readily available at sports stores, these are pre-formed and are usually the least expensive. However, they are often bulky and can make breathing and talking difficult.
2. Boil and Bite Mouth Protectors: These can be bought at many sporting goods stores and offer a better fit than stock mouth protectors. They are made from thermoplastic and can be shaped around the teeth after being warmed in water.
3. Custom-fitted Mouth Protectors: Made by a dentist or a dental technician to fit your teeth precisely, these are more expensive than the other types but provide the most comfort and protection.
Conclusion
Mouthguards are a dental industry mainstay, bridging the gap between prevention and intervention. Their varied uses, from sports protection to preventing nighttime grinding, make them a versatile tool in the arsenal of dental health. With the right type and fit, anyone can benefit from the protection that mouthguards offer. Always consult with your dentist to choose the best option for your specific needs.
A grin that is both straight and confident possesses not just aesthetic appeal but also serves as an indicator of optimal dental health. The presence of malocclusion or dental misalignment can give rise to various dental problems and have a detrimental impact on an individual’s self-confidence. For those contemplating the appropriateness of orthodontic treatment, this all-encompassing manual aims to elucidate the significance of such treatment, identify the indicators that need it, outline the many treatment alternatives, and expound upon the advantages associated with achieving a more aligned dental appearance.
Orthodontic treatment holds significant importance in the field of dentistry.
Orthodontic therapy extends beyond cosmetic considerations and assumes a pivotal role in the comprehensive maintenance of oral well-being. The significance of orthodontic treatment in aligning one’s teeth:
1. One significant benefit of maintaining good oral hygiene is the improvement of oral health. Malpositioned or maloccluded teeth can result in interdental gaps that pose difficulties in achieving thorough oral hygiene, hence increasing susceptibility to dental caries, periodontal disease, and halitosis.
2. Improved Functionality: The alignment of teeth plays a crucial role in facilitating efficient biting and chewing processes, hence positively impacting an individual’s dietary intake and nutritional status.
3. One important benefit of practicing good oral hygiene is the ability to prevent dental issues. The act of addressing misalignment has the potential to mitigate the occurrence of several difficulties, such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, bruxism (teeth grinding), and the excessive wearing down of tooth surfaces.
4. Enhanced Self-Assurance: The presence of a properly aligned dental arch can contribute to an individual’s self-confidence and provide a sense of ease in both interpersonal and occupational environments.
Indicators Evidencing the Necessity of Orthodontic Intervention
Orthodontic treatment offers several advantages across various contexts. However, discernible indicators exist that suggest the opportune moment to contemplate tooth alignment.
1. The condition known as “crowded teeth” refers to a dental malocclusion when there is insufficient space in the oral cavity for all the teeth to align properly. When teeth exhibit proximal contact, the process of maintaining oral hygiene through cleaning and flossing may become challenging, hence augmenting the susceptibility to dental caries and periodontal disease.
2. Dental Spacing Concerns: The presence of gaps or spaces between teeth can give rise to cosmetic considerations and could impact one’s occlusion.
3. The topic of discussion pertains to the conditions known as overbites and underbites. These aforementioned concerns have the potential to give rise to difficulties in mastication and may result in discomfort in the temporomandibular joint.
4. Crossbites refer to a dental condition when the upper and lower teeth do not align properly in a horizontal manner. The presence of a crossbite has the potential to result in dental misalignment and discomfort in the jaw region.
5. Dental Malocclusion: Evident dental misalignment can have a significant impact on an individual’s self-confidence and general oral well-being.
The many treatment options available for orthodontic interventions.
The field of orthodontics has made significant advancements, resulting in a wide range of treatment choices that may be tailored to accommodate individual requirements and preferences. The prevailing orthodontic interventions encompass:
1. Conventional Orthodontic Treatment: Conventional orthodontic treatment involves the use of metal brackets and wires, which are frequently adjusted to facilitate the movement of teeth towards the intended alignment.
2. The topic of discussion is Invisalign. Invisalign provides a discreet alternative to conventional orthodontic braces. The process entails utilizing a sequence of transparent, detachable aligners that progressively reposition the teeth.
3. Ceramic braces are a type of orthodontic appliance that are commonly used in the field of dentistry. These orthodontic appliances have resemblance to conventional braces, although they employ brackets and wires that are tooth-colored or transparent in order to harmonise with the natural appearance of one’s teeth.
4. Lingual braces are a type of orthodontic treatment that involves the placement of brackets and wires on the inside surface of the teeth, as opposed to the traditional method Lingual braces are affixed to the lingual surface of the teeth, rendering them inconspicuous when viewed from the anterior perspective.
The Advantages of Dental Alignment in Achieving a More Aligned Dentition
Opting for orthodontic treatment to align your teeth has a multitude of advantages, including:
1. Enhanced Oral Health:The alignment of teeth plays a pivotal role in facilitating effective oral hygiene practices, hence mitigating the likelihood of dental complications.
2. One notable benefit of this intervention is the improvement in self-assurance. The presence of an aesthetically pleasing grin has the potential to enhance an individual’s self-confidence and positively impact their interpersonal and occupational engagements.
3. Improved Functionality: The alignment of teeth in a correct manner has the potential to enhance an individual’s bite, resulting in increased comfort during activities such as chewing and speaking.
4. One important aspect to consider in maintaining oral health is the prevention of dental issues. The mitigation of misalignment can contribute to the prevention of subsequent dental complications.
In conclusion, it can be inferred that the information presented supports the notion that the given argument
The decision to undergo orthodontic treatment is a commitment towards enhancing one’s dental health, bolstering self-assurance, and promoting overall holistic welfare. If individuals are exhibiting any of the aforementioned indications or are seeking to enhance their dental aesthetics, it is advisable to seek guidance from an orthodontic specialist in order to assess and choose the most suitable course of treatment. The accessibility of having a straight and confident smile has significantly increased due to recent improvements in orthodontics. We encourage you to promptly initiate the initial action towards achieving a state of improved oral health and enhanced aesthetic appeal for your smile.
