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Bleeding Gums After Brushing? 5 Signs You Need a Professional Cleaning

Does your gum bleed when you brush? Do not ignore it as a normal occurrence. Bleeding is a signal from your body that the gums need immediate attention. In most cases, bleeding starts when plaque builds up on your teeth. Over time, this worsens, leading to gum inflammation. Hence, if you are suffering from bleeding gums, then it’s definitely time for you to visit the dentist to get professional advice.

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Why do gums bleed while brushing?

Gums can be damaged for several reasons, especially when gum tissue becomes fragile or irritated. When the tissue is damaged, brushing can cause friction and blood eventually comes out. Most of the time, patients undergo situations like:

  • Bleeding in a single area where there is a decayed tooth, or if a food particle is stuck
  • Bleeding in the whole mouth due to plaque and gingivitis
  • Bleeding with pain or swelling
  • Bleeding after an aggressive brushing technique

Common reasons behind bleeding gums

Plaque buildup and gingivitis

One of the most common causes of bleeding gums is plaque buildup along the gum line, which can lead to gingivitis if not treated promptly. Plaque is a sticky layer of bacteria which stays on the teeth enamel and causes gingivitis in the long run.

Signs of gingivitis

  • Continuos bleeding whenever your bursh or floss
  • Redness or puffiness in the gums
  • Continuous bad breath issues
  • Tenderness in the gums
  • Discomfort while chewing

Brushing with a hard-bristle brush

Sometimes it is not about gum disease; rather, it is about the mechanical trauma caused by using a hard-bristle brush. Hard bristle brushes injure the gum margin and scrape the gum tissue. If you brush at the wrong angle, like scrubbing sideways, you risk damaging your gums.

Flossing or incorrect interdental cleaning

Sometimes people start flossing only after the gums start bleeding. However, in most of the cases, the bleeding might stop within a few days, and the situation might improve with consistent flossing. On the other hand, if the bleeding becomes heavy and gets out of hand and if you experience pain, swelling or pus-like discharge, then you must immediately get in touch with the dentist.

Periodontitis

If you leave gum disease untreated, it will progress to a condition known as periodontitis. In this situation, the infection will affect the deeper sections of the gum and bone. This becomes a serious dental issue. Here are a few signs of periodontitis that you need to look out for:

  • Unstoppable and continuous bleeding from the gums
  • Pus formation between the gums and teeth
  • Gaps are forming between the teeth
  • Loose teeth or teeth shifting
  • Problems like gum recession

Vitamin deficiencies

While the above-mentioned problems are common, gum bleeding also results from vitamin deficiencies. For instance, patients with vitamin C and K deficiency and having poor nutritional intake experienced gum bleeding. Moreover, if you have dehydration or dry mouth issues, then you will face bleeding issues.

Book your appointment with Avant Dental if you’re experiencing issues such as persistent bleeding from your gums. We can help you mitigate the problem at the earliest.

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How to Manage Wisdom Tooth Pain at Home until Your Appointment

Wisdom teeth, which are commonly known as the third molars, are the last set of teeth that emerge inside the mouth. Wisdom teeth generally appear between the ages of 17 and 25. While some individuals may never have problems with their wisdom teeth, others may experience pain and discomfort as the teeth grow.

Pain from wisdom teeth is often due to insufficient space in the mouth for the teeth to erupt fully. When they do not have enough space to break through the gum line, this can lead to infection and gum disease and may cause damage to adjacent teeth.

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What are the symptoms of wisdom tooth pain?

The most common symptom is pain and discomfort in the back of the mouth. You will notice a sharp, throbbing pain that radiates from the jaw to the ear and the head, persisting continuously. Other symptoms include redness or swelling of the gums and difficulty in opening the mouth completely. It can also cause bad breath and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Sometimes an individual can also experience a headache, neck pain and swollen face.

Home remedies for wisdom tooth pain relief

If you are experiencing wisdom tooth pain, several home remedies can provide temporary relief until you get an appointment with the dentist.

Saltwater rinse

You can mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth with it. This helps reduce the inflammation associated with wisdom tooth growth, provides temporary relief, and gives you time to book an appointment.

Clove oil

You can apply a small amount of clove oil to the affected area with a cotton swab. Clove oil has natural anaesthetic and antibacterial properties that can help reduce pain and prevent infection simultaneously.

Cold compress

If you experience throbbing pain from the tooth to the head, use a cold compress or ice pack placed outside the cheek near the painful area for quick relief. The cold temperature will numb the area and reduce the pain. However, this provides temporary relief from wisdom tooth pain. For long-term relief, you need to contact a dentist for an extraction.

Over-the-counter pain relief

There are various non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs available over the counter at pharmacies without a prescription. They can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with the wisdom tooth. Ask the pharmacist to help you with the dosage instructions and follow them for quick relief.

When should you see a dentist for wisdom tooth pain?

While home remedies can provide temporary relief, for long-term pain relief, you need to see a dentist who will perform a proper evaluation and provide a treatment plan. Here is when you should get in touch with a dentist

  • When severe pain does not respond to home remedies
  • When there is a swelling or infection in the gum
  • When you face difficulty in opening your mouth or swallowing things
  • When there is a persistent bad breath or unpleasant taste in your mouth
  • When you develop facial swelling and / or fever

Are you stuck with a painful wisdom tooth? Book your appointment with Avant Dental for quick relief. Being one of the best dental clinics near you, we boast of having state-of-the-art dental equipment like a full mouth X-ray machine (OPG), intra oral scanner, dental laser, etc. Our team of doctors are well-trained to operate these, ensuring a precise diagnosis of the problem.

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How To Keep The Gums Healthy? Tips from Dentists

A sparkling set of white teeth is not enough to give you a healthy smile. Along with white teeth, you should also have healthy gums. Healthy gums provide the foundation for strong teeth, which in turn contribute to a beautiful smile. Gum problems are common and unavoidable. If you leave them untreated for a long time, it can lead to major oral health issues. Visit your nearest dental clinic if you’re facing gum-related issues.

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Why do you need healthy gums?

Helps to prevent gum disease

If your gums are healthy, then they will act as a protective barrier against all types of gum diseases. A healthy gum will protect you against issues like gingivitis and periodontitis. These conditions often lead to gum problems, including inflammation, bleeding, and even tooth loss.

Improving oral health

Maintaining healthy gums helps prevent oral infections and reduces tooth decay. If your gums are healthy, the frequency of cavities in the gum will also be reduced to a large extent.

Helps in general well-being

By keeping your gums healthy, you can prevent infections that may lead to heart disease, respiratory infections, and adverse issues during pregnancy.

What are the benefits of having healthy gums?

Get fresh breath

Unhealthy gums are the major reason behind bad breath. Maintaining healthy gums ensures fresh breath and enhances your oral hygiene.

Preserve natural teeth

When the gums are healthy, the likelihood of tooth loss is reduced. This will help you preserve all your natural teeth. Most of the tooth loss results from unhealthy gum problems. If you’re tired of getting ceramic teeth in place of the natural ones, then it’s time to take proper care of the gums.

How to maintain healthy gums?

Maintain proper oral hygiene

According to dentists, it is essential to brush at least twice a day. Additionally, flossing daily should also be part of the oral hygiene routine, as it helps to remove the food particles that are stuck between the gaps.

Rinse with mouthwash

Along with toothpaste, it is essential to use a mouthwash to keep the gums clear and healthy. Unlike toothpaste, mouthwash can effectively clean the gums and all areas of the mouth.

Limit sugar intake

Sugary and starchy foods, when consumed regularly in large quantities, can lead to problems such as plaque and result in gum disease. Limit your gum consumption for better health.

Quit smoking and drinking

Smoking and drinking significantly increase the risk of gum problems. To ensure that your gums and your teeth stay healthy, you need to quit smoking completely. Occasionally, drinking might not cause harm; however, if you’re already suffering from a gambling problem, you should quit drinking as well.

Go for professional dental checkups

Sometimes a gum problem might go unnoticed for a long time. To minimise the issue from the very beginning, book an appointment with a dentist. They will examine the condition of your gums and provide suggestions for improvement.

Are gum problems bothering you? Book your appointment with Avant Dental for gum depigmentation and cosmetic dental procedures. Contact us for more details.

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Root Canal Treatment – Uncover the Truth about the Treatment

Since 1766, root canal treatment has been prevalent in dentistry. However, initially the process was painful due to improper anesthesia techniques and lack of advanced equipment’s.

Is RCT excruciatingly painful? What is the mystery behind the RCT procedure? Before you opt for the treatment, here are a few pieces of information about the process that will surely reduce your stress and make you more confident.

Why do you need a root canal treatment?

If the pulp is severely decayed or you have an abscessed pulp, dentists say RCT is the only method that can save your tooth. With modern techniques, RCT is painless and has no side effects. However, in the fear of getting RCT if you leave the tooth untreated, you will probably lose it.

What are the signs indicating that you need a root canal treatment?

If you notice the following issues, do not delay. Book an appointment at the earliest for an RCT.

  • Sudden discolouration in teeth and gums
  • Swelling, redness and consistent pain in the gums
  • Severe and persistent pain in a tooth affected by a cavity
  • High sensitivity to sudden temperature changes
  • Small bumps on the gums leading to continuous tooth pain
  • Dental decay causes pain, swelling, and redness

When you notice one or more of the above symptoms, you must contact a dentist and more specifically an Endodontist for RCT.

What are the questions to ask about root canal treatment?

If your dentist has recommended root canal treatment, here are a few questions you can ask before starting the process.

  • Does the RCT pose any risks during or after the process?
  • Will I have pain during the process?
  • Do you provide anaesthesia before starting?
  • How long will it take to get completed?
  • Will I get insurance coverage for the same?

What is the process of root canal treatment?

Detection

This is the initial step where you visit the dentist and share your problem. The dentist will use X-rays to check the extent of decay in the roots and gums.

Begin the process

The dentist will administer anaesthesia to numb the area around the tooth. Then they will drill an opening into the top of the tooth to access the damaged pulp.

Remove pulp

The next step involves removing the pulp, cleaning the damaged area, and disinfecting it. The canals will be cleaned and filled with gutta-percha, a byproduct of rubber.

Crown and restoration

The dentist will make a mold of the tooth and send it to the dental lab for a permanent crown fabrication. Based on the material you’ve chosen, the dental lab will make the crown and it will be cemented on the RCT tooth.

Book your appointment with Avant Dental for root canal treatment and save your tooth. We use advanced anesthetic techniques and modern equipment’s to ensure that there’s no pain throughout the treatment. Contact us for more details.

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How To Maintain A Healthy Mouth After A Root Canal Treatment?

If your tooth nerve has been affected by cavities or injuries, root canals help restore the tooth and surrounding gum tissue in a safe, painless manner. Root canal is a safe and simple dental treatment and a minimally invasive procedure; however, the risk of infection and discomfort increases if you do not follow preventive measures after the treatment. By booking with the best dental clinics in New Town, you can get rid of the tooth pain.

What to expect during a root canal treatment? 

The dentist will take an X-ray to assess the tooth’s condition before starting the treatment. The X-rays show the extent of the damage. Before starting the process, they will dispel your fear of getting hurt by applying a numbing gel on the gums. This acts as a local anaesthetic, blocking all types of pain impulses from your gum. 

At the beginning of the process, the dentist will drill an access hole in the tooth and expose the infected pulp. They will remove the pulp and clean the inside of the tooth. Then they will fill the tooth space with biocompatible rubber-like material and will seal the hole. This acts like a temporary filling. 

How to manage discomfort after a root canal? 

Once the effect of the anaesthesia wears off, there can be discomfort and pain. Dentists generally prescribe painkillers and antibiotics to help keep the pain under control. The antibiotics are given to prevent the infection. Dentists also advise using ice packs on the cheeks in case there’s swelling resulting from the root canal treatment. 

You will also need to avoid eating spicy, crunchy, and chewy foods for a few days to keep the infection and pain at bay. 

Brushing teeth after a root canal – what is the process?

According to the dentists, it is absolutely normal to brush the teeth after a root canal. This helps in eliminating the infection. However, you must remain careful with brushing, and it is better to avoid harsh, hard bristles during this time. The space is generally filled temporarily until the dental crown is placed there. Thus, following the recovery instructions is essential until you receive the crown. 

Is it feasible to gargle after a root canal?

According to the dentists, it is feasible to gargle after the root canal. However, you should not use any over-the-counter mouthwash without consulting the dentist. It is always recommended to rinse the mouth with simple salt water as it contains antiseptic properties. You can gargle at least three to four times a day. 

If there’s swelling after the treatment that does not subside, contact the dentist immediately. However, wait for 72 hours before contacting the doctor. If you’re looking for the best dental clinics in New Town, book your appointment with Avant Dental. 

Book root canal treatment with us. We boast having state-of-the-art dental equipment, including a full-mouth X-ray machine (OPG), an intraoral scanner, and a dental laser.  Our staff is well-trained to operate these, ensuring a precise diagnosis of the problem. For cosmetic dentistry, we offer a range of dental treatments, including dental veneers, Tooth Whitening, Smile Design, Gum Depigmentation, braces, and Invisalign. These will protect your teeth from further damage and enhance your smile.</h2id=”heading1″>

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Is Root Canal Treatment Painful? – Myths You Need To Debunk

Root canal treatment (RCT) has been shrouded in misconceptions because of its reputation for causing pain. This was when there were no advancements in dental technology. However, with advances in dental techniques, RCT has evolved into a comfortable and safe solution for saving your teeth. Hence, now it’s time to debunk the myths and embrace the reality. Understanding root canal treatment is essential before you choose to book an appointment with a dentist for root canal treatment. 

What is root canal treatment? 

A root canal treatment is done to treat the infection and the damage that has taken place in the tooth’s pulp due to cavities. The process involves removing the infected pulp and cleaning the tooth by removing bacteria and debris. Once the infected pulp is removed, the tooth is sealed to prevent future infections. 

The primary goal of RCT is to reduce persistent pain and preserve the tooth’s natural structure. 

What are the common myths about root canal treatment? 

Myth 1: RCT is painful 

Many think RCT is excruciatingly painful. However, in reality, the process involves applying anaesthesia to the jaws to make the process relatively painless. The anaesthesia will wear off once the treatment is over, leaving the area numb for some time, making the patient comfortable. 

Myth 2: Extraction is better than RCT

Many patients believe extraction is a simpler solution than RCT. However, RCT helps to save the natural tooth structure. It also prevents complications associated with extraction like bone loss and migration from the adjoining teeth. 

Myth 3: The Tooth root is being removed 

Patients believe that during RCT, the roots of the teeth are also being extracted. However, this is a false statement. Only the ineffective pulp tissue is removed, and the roots are preserved. The roots remain intact and support the tooth and its complete functions. 

What are the advancements in root canal treatment? 

Dentistry has evolved over the years, and RCTs are now performed with advanced equipment to ensure complete patient comfort. Some of the notable advancements are as follows:

Digital imaging

Cone-beam computed tomography provides detailed images of the RCT process for the dentist, helping them make more accurate diagnoses and plan treatment more effectively. 

Laser technology

Laser technology is now used by dentists to clean and disinfect the roots during the RCT process. These technologies have been more successful compared to traditional methods. Using laser technology helps reduce discomfort and shorten recovery time. 

Rotary instruments 

Dentists use rotary instruments to allow precise and faster cleaning of canals during the RCT treatment. These instruments make the patients comfortable, causing less trauma to the surrounding tissues. 

For pain free RCT using advanced technologies, book your appointment at Avant Dental. Our goal is to help our patients achieve and maintain optimal oral care.

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Amazing Teeth Whitening Tips That You Can Follow

Are you unable to flaunt a sparkling white smile? Do you long for white teeth? More than 90% people globally are opting for professional teeth whitening services. Dull, yellowish and stained teeth are a constant source of nuisance irrespective of age and gender. While professional teeth whitening is expensive and time-consuming, there are DIY options available as well. 

However, with a few smart and simple tips you can prevent your teeth from getting discoloured. Here are a few teeth-whitening tips you should definitely follow to get sparkling white teeth. 

What are the common teeth whitening tips that you should follow?

Stop smoking

Smoking is not only injurious to health but also injurious to your teeth. The nicotine and tar present in cigarettes stain your teeth over time. The longer you smoke, the more stains you will develop. Although professional teeth whitening options will help you get white teeth, if you start smoking again, the stains will come back on the surface of your teeth. 

Limit beverage consumption

Limit consumption of coffee, tea, acidic fruit juices and wine so that you can avoid stains on the tooth enamel. Moreover, if you’re addicted to tea and coffee, make sure you drink them in a single sitting instead of drinking them over a prolonged period. Keeping the liquid in the mouth for a long time exposes the enamel to the beverage, causing long-lasting stains on the surface. 

Use whitening toothpaste

Some toothpastes contain whitening ingredients like baking soda and peroxide. Book an appointment with dentists. Ask them to list the pastes and start using them. Although this will not give you sparkling white teeth, it will remove the stains from coffee, tea, and wine from the surface of your teeth. 

Brush and floss everyday

Brushing every day is a daily hygiene habit. However, do you floss daily? Flossing is not a common practice. 9 out of 10 people do not floss their teeth daily. Unlike brushing, flossing helps remove food debris and encourages a brighter smile. Book an appointment with dentists, and they will guide you on the proper flossing technique. 

Use custom-fitted teeth whitening trays

Custom-fitted whitening trays are available in almost all pharmacies. These trays have a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide. Use them and get instantly whiter teeth. With these trays, you can visit the dentist, and within two sittings, they will fix the issue. 

Change your diet

Include foods like watermelon and strawberries in your diet, as they contain malic acid, which helps whiten your teeth. Avoid eating pineapples, as they dissolve the pellicle, which can lead to tooth discolouration. Some other teeth-whitening foods include apples, cauliflower, and green tea, which help increase saliva secretion in the mouth and help remove acids generated by bacterial deposits. 

While there are many viable options, visiting a professional dentist is always the best choice. Book your appointment with Avant Dental. We can help you with professional teeth whitening services. Contact us for more information.

Faqs

Does teeth whitening work on all types of stains?

Whitening is effective on stains from coffee, tea, and wine; however, if there’s internal enamel discolouration, professional whitening might not be effective.

How long will my teeth whitening last?

Professionally treated teeth will last for around 3 years; however, you need to follow the tips to ensure that the teeth remain white.

Are DIY whitening kits effective?

Professional treatments will deliver better, faster results than DIY techniques. However, for short-term solutions, you can use DIY kits containing peroxide.

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How Professional Teeth Whitening Can Help Get A Smile Makeover?

A warm, beautiful smile not only enhances a person’s personality but also makes them approachable and confident. However, discoloured teeth dampens even the most beautiful smiles. Over time, teeth can lose their colour for various reasons. This is where the magic of professional teeth whitening comes into play. Teeth whitening treatment is a cosmetic treatment that restores confidence and helps retain white, dazzling teeth. Are you planning a smile makeover? Whitening often works wonders in one or two sessions. 

What is a smile makeover?

A smile makeover is a cosmetic dental procedure which is designed to improve the appearance of the teeth through a combination of orthodontic treatments. It involves restorative treatments such as teeth whitening, veneers, crowns, and bonding, as well as gum contouring to enhance aesthetics. Orthodontists also consider factors such as lip line and skin tone to improve the patient’s smile. 

Why do bright teeth make a difference for confident smiles?

Bright teeth are not only a necessity for a beautiful smile, but it is also a psychological concern. Bright teeth make the person confident. Bright teeth give the impression of healthy, hygienic teeth. Hence, it creates a positive impression in many people’s minds. Especially in professional, business, and interview settings, dull and discoloured teeth are a source of embarrassment. Hence, dental bleaching can help you flaunt dazzling white teeth.

Different teeth whitening options for a smile makeover

In-office whitening 

This is the most consistent method, which is performed directly at the dental clinic. It helps in achieving fast results. The dentist will remove the discolouration from your teeth with chemicals and whitening gel, making them several shades brighter. 

Dentist-supervised kits

Those who prefer gradual but consistent changes can opt for dentist-supervised kits. These are customised kits recommended by the dentist based on the extent of whitening required for the teeth. These kits include trays that patients need to wear for days or even weeks to align their teeth properly. This option is often chosen by patients who prefer flexible treatment options.

Over-the-counter products

Dental bleaching can be done with over-the-counter products like whitening toothpaste, strips, and gels. These OTC products generally help remove minor stains. However, the results are inconsistent and short-lived. If you’ve insignificant stains on the enamel and the enamel looks discoloured, it can be resolved with OTC products. 

What are the benefits of professional teeth whitening treatment? 

Professional teeth whitening is a better option because of its effective results. Dentists generally use a solution that penetrates deep into the enamel and removes stains. This is not possible with OTC products. Moreover, under professional care, dentists will monitor the whitening process and the patient’s progress and discomfort. Along with professional teeth whitening, oral care is also available. With smile makeover treatments, you can restore the brightness in your teeth and gain complete confidence. 

For the best teeth whitening treatment in Kolkata, book your appointment with Avant Dental. Our goal is to help patients achieve and maintain optimal oral care. We strive to provide high-quality dental care in a relaxing and comfortable environment.

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Dental Braces Treatment – A Comprehensive Guide For First-Time Visitors

Dental braces are a popular orthodontic treatment used to correct misaligned teeth, bite issues, and jaw irregularities. Are you stuck with crooked teeth? Then, dental braces treatment is the best option for you. The dentist will work by applying continuous pressure to the misaligned teeth and will gradually shift them to align with the other set of teeth. 

What Are Dental Braces? 

Dental braces are devices used by orthodontists to straighten teeth. With the help of braces, the dentist will also correct bite issues and improve overall oral health. The braces are non-invasive and are attached to the misaligned teeth. The dentists generally advise the patient to wear the brace all the time. The braces apply gentle pressure continuously, moving the teeth to their ideal positions over time. 

When Do You Need a Brace?

Braces are recommended when individuals face issues like :

  • Crooked or misaligned teeth 
  • Problems with overbite and underbite
  • For fixing gaps between teeth
  • Problems with crowded teeth
  • Jaw misalignment 

What Are The Different Types of Dental Braces? 

The braces are available depending on the patient’s needs and preferences. There are various types of dental braces available that are used to address the aforementioned dental issues. 

Metal Braces 

These braces are made with stainless steel and are a cost-effective option. They are durable and used to correct misalignments within the mouth. 

Ceramic Braces 

These braces are similar to the tooth’s colour and are less noticeable or visible compared to the metal braces. However, they are more expensive compared to the metal versions. Since they are almost invisible hence they are preferred by many. 

Clear Braces / Aligners (Invisalign)

These are transparent braces with removable trays, which help gradually shift the teeth into their correct position. They are ideal for moderate or mild misalignments. They are comfortable and discreet, making them the most preferred choice. If you want to undergo alignment treatment, then invisalign is the best option for you. Moreover, clear aligners have the additional benefit of being completely removable and hence are very easy to clean and maintain oral hygiene 

Lingual Braces 

These braces are generally placed behind the teeth, which makes them almost invisible. They can be customised according to the patient’s needs. They are easy to clean; however, they can sometimes be challenging for the wearer. 

What Is The Process of Dental Brace Treatment? 

Initial Consultation

If you’ve a crooked or misaligned set of teeth, then schedule your appointment with an orthodontist. They will thoroughly examine the condition of the teeth, take an X-ray, and discuss the treatment plan. 

Placing The Braces 

Once the type of dental brace treatment plan has been identified and the type of braces has been decided, the dentist will attach the brackets carefully and bond them to the teeth using a dental adhesive and a wire. This step marks the beginning of applying relevant pressure to the misaligned teeth. 

Regular Adjustments 

With monthly checkups, the dentist will check the progress and make the necessary adjustments. They might tighten the wires and change the bands to keep the teeth moving. 

Completion and Retainers

Once the desired alignment has been achieved, the braces are removed and the retainers are prescribed to prevent the teeth from shifting back. 

Do you need braces to fix your misaligned teeth? Book an appointment with Avant Dental. We offer general and cosmetic dentistry. We also help with dental implants and tooth braces.

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Why Oral Health Care is an Important Matter for Seniors?

Oral health for seniors is a significant concern. With age, the gums and teeth undergo significant structural changes, making proper oral healthcare more important than ever.  Poor oral hygiene can lead to issues like diabetes, heart problems and respiratory troubles. For seniors, oral health is of particular importance, as it significantly impacts their health, quality of life, ability to eat, speak, and socialise. 

Moreover, unhygienic oral conditions can lead to rapid tooth decay, tooth loss, and persistent gum problems, such as bleeding gums, in older people. 

Why oral health matters for seniors? 

The oral health of seniors is directly related to other aspects of healthcare. Poor hygiene will not only cause tooth and gum problems but will also cause heart disease and diabetes. For seniors, these are the reasons that encourage them to practice good oral care. 

  • Preventing tooth decay and gum disease
  • Reducing risks of cavities and periodontal disease
  • Managing chronic pain and stopping illnesses like diabetes and dental problems 
  • Improving digestion capacity by having healthy teeth
  • Getting rid of discomfort leads to better well-being

Common oral health issues in elderly people

Dry mouth: This illness is also known as Xerostomia. This is often caused by medications that the elderly person consumes. Consistent dry mouth can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

Gum disease: This is also known as periodontitis, is a serious condition that can cause tooth loss. This is also linked with other health problems like persistent heart disease. 

Tooth loss: Missing teeth in elderly people can affect their eating, speaking, and self-esteem. 

Oral cancer: The risk of oral cancer in old people generally increases with age. Thus, they are required to make regular dental check-ups. This will help in understanding the sensitivity. 

Tooth sensitivity: With age, the enamel of the tooth starts to wear out, which in turn leads to receding gums. This causes the tooth to become sensitive. When you eat or drink hot or cold food items, this sensitivity can become difficult to bear. 

How can seniors maintain oral health?

Through regular dental appointments

Every elderly patient is required to make a dental appointment at least twice a year and have their entire mouth, including teeth and gums, examined. Regular visits help in detecting the problems and treating them early. 

Proper brushing and flossing

Dentists advise elderly people to brush their teeth twice a day with toothpaste that contains fluoride. For more effective results, they can use an electric toothbrush as well. This helps in thorough cleaning. 

Stay hydrated 

It is essential to stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet that includes sufficient vegetables, dairy products, and fruits to strengthen teeth and gums. 

Quit smoking and drinking

Smoking and drinking can increase gum and tooth problems. For elderly people, it is advisable to quit the same. 

Denture care

If the elderly person is wearing dentures, they should remove them at night to prevent infections and maintain gum health. 

Book your appointment with Avant Dental for general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and tooth braces.Â