A broken jaw refers to a jaw with a fracture in the bone, usually in the lower jaw, called the mandible. A dislocated jaw is when the lower jaw comes out of place at the joint. Learn the causes, diagnosis and treatment for both broken and dislocated jaws.
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A tooth infection is when bacteria enter the nerve and blood supply in the inner part of a tooth, infecting the tooth and causing an abscess. An abscess is a pocket of pus at the base of the root caused by bacteria accumulation. A tooth infection typically causes pain, swelling and tenderness in the area and requires treatment. If not treated, the infection will grow and potentially cause serious effects such as the jaw and even the brain. Tooth infections occur due to untreated cavities, old restorative work and trauma. It is essential to see your dentist immediately when you think you may have a tooth infection, and your dentist will likely recommend an antibiotic. The type of antibiotic recommended depends on the type of bacteria and the type of infection.
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Dental crowns are used to cover teeth with large cavities that fillings can’t repair. Dental crowns act as a protective covering over the tooth, preventing chips, fractures, breakage and future decay. Often if a child has a large cavity on a baby tooth, a silver crown will be required to fix it to save the tooth.
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We all know the recommendation, brushing at least twice a day and always before bed. But do we all know why the essential toothbrushing time of the day is the one before bed? In this article, we will explore why brushing before bed is a must and the consequences of neglecting that nighttime brush.
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When new teeth are erupting in your baby’s mouth, they can feel pain, discomfort and even flu-like symptoms. Teething can occur when any or all of your baby’s teeth erupt through the gums. The first baby teeth to erupt are the lower front teeth, around 5-10 months old, and the last will be the back molars around 2 ½ years old. The symptoms your baby is experiencing during teething are due to a small immune response in their body, which is why your baby might also experience a mild fever.
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Guided tissue regeneration is a procedure that utilizes barrier membranes to help grow back the gum and bone tissue in areas where it has become insufficient. Tissue and bone regeneration can improve the dignity, function, and appearance of healthy gum and bone support around teeth, restoring the bone height and attachments to adequate levels. Guided tissue and bone regeneration help to extend the lifespan of a tooth.
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A large factor in the risk for cavities is the foods and drinks we consume regularly. Foods and beverages can be categorized into being either good or bad for the teeth, and unfortunately, more foods are bad for the teeth than foods that are good for the teeth. This categorization is not about the nutritional value of foods concerning the body’s overall health. The most vital factor is whether the food/drink contains sugars or acids that are damaging to tooth surfaces. Let’s explore the relationship of certain types of foods and beverages on the health of the teeth.
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Many of us have experienced tooth sensitivity at one time or another. Tooth sensitivity typically occurs when external stimuli (such as cold drinks or sugary snacks) create a response in the nerve of a tooth/teeth. It creates this response by travelling through the microscopic channels that lead from the outside to the inside of the teeth. The tooth’s outside layer is called the enamel, and the inside layers are called the dentin and pulp. There are various causes why teeth may become sensitive over time.
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Technological advancements over time have lead to a broader range of options when it comes to straightening teeth. Long gone are the days that it was train track braces or nothing. Invisalign is a form of orthodontics that utilizes a series of clear plastic aligners to straighten your teeth and adjust your bite gradually. Invisalign works by applying force through the tray on small attachments bonded to the front surfaces of your teeth. These attachments help provide slow and effective movement. Based on your individual treatment plan, attachments are made from tooth-coloured resin bonded onto specific locations of your teeth.
The cost and the length of treatment depend significantly on the proposed treatment plan and the amount of movement that must be made. During your consultation appointment, all the important information will be discussed, as well as all of your questions answered.
After your consultation, you will visit your dentist/orthodontist to have your teeth and jaw impressions. A detailed, custom, digital treatment plan will be created, and a series of Invisalign trays will be fabricated at the Invisalign lab. The number of trays in your treatment plan will be based on how much movement must occur. After receiving your initial trays, you will see your dentist/ orthodontist every 4-6 weeks to receive the next tray and to assess results. You will also be instructed on how frequently to change your trays.
It is essential to discuss what outcome you hope to achieve with your dentist before starting your Invisalign treatment. During your consult, cost, length of treatment, and outcomes will be discussed. If you are interested in learning more about Invisalign treatment, we encourage you to contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Below is a review of many different tooth cleaning aids that can be found in any standard drug store. Learn what they are used for and how they can help you take care of your teeth and gums.
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