Children's Dentist in Gurgaon (Pedodontist)

Parts of Braces

2013-05-16T15:19:00.003+05:30

AN APPLIANCE can be defined as anything a dentist attaches to your teeth to move them or to change the shape of your jaw will be called an appliance. We have a long list of them as you read through this article.

ARCH WIRE - A metal wire that is attached to the brackets that move your teeth

BAND - A metal ring that is placed on some teeth to hold wires or other parts of braces

BITEPLANE - A removable appliance made of acrylic designed to open a deep bite.
Bracket - A metal or ceramic fixture that is bonded onto a tooth It serves as a way of connecting the arch wire to the teeth.

BUCCAL TUBE - A small metal tube that is welded to the outside of a molar band The buccal tube is a slots to hold arch wires, lip bumpers, headgears and other things your dentist uses to move teeth.

CHAIN - A stretchable elastic chain used to hold arch wires into brackets and to move teeth.

HEADGEAR - A Headgear is a wire apparatus used to move the upper molars back in the arch to create room for crowded or protruded front teeth. The headgear has two metal arcs that have been soldered. The inner arc goes in the mouth and is connected to the buccal tubes. The outer arc goes around the face, and connects to a pad with springs and a plastic safety strap that goes around the neck, or to a higher pull headgear that goes on top of the head. The inner bow is inserted into the buccal tubes, and the plastic strap is attached to both sides of the outer bow of the headgear.

HOOK - The place on the bracket or band where the elastics are attached

LIGATURE - A small elastic, shaped like a donut, which is used to hold the arch wires in the brackets.

LIP BUMPER - A lip bumper is used to move the lower molars back to create space for other teeth. The lip bumper consists of a metal arc that has plastic mold attached to the front. The wire is placed into the buccal tubes on the lower molars, while the plastic mold lies behind the lips. Pressure from the lip pushes the wire to move the molars back.

MOUTH GUARD - A soft rubber form that that covers the teeth to prevent injury while playing sports. All children playing sports should wear Mouth guards.

NECK PAD - A neck pad is a cloth-covered cushion that is worn around the neck with a headgear.

NICKEL TITANIUM OR (NITI) - An especially flexible orthodontic wire which allows for tooth movement over a longer period.

PALATAL EXPANDER - A fixed or removable appliance that is used to make the upper jaw wider

RETAINER - A plastic appliance that can be used to move teeth, or to wear after orthodontic treatment. The retainer attaches to the upper or lower teeth and helps them settle into a stable position. Retainers are worn full time at first and then at night only.

SEPARATOR - A rubber or metal part that creates space between teeth that will receive orthodontic bands.

WAX - Wax is used to prevent braces from irritating lips or cheeks when braces are first put on.

About the author:

Dr. Payal Chaudhuri B.D.S., M.D.S.

The author of this article is a Registered Dental Practitioner in India.

She is also associated with a Dental College in Gurgaon, India.

E-mail: dr.payal@hotmail.com

Pulp Therapy (for baby teeth)

2012-03-14T11:16:00.000+05:30

The pulp of a tooth is the inner, central core of the tooth and contains blood vessels and nerves. Dental caries (cavities) and trauma to the tooth are the primary reasons for children to undergo pulp therapy.

Your child may need pulp therapy if he/she has

Tooth pain for no apparent reason
A tooth that is sensitive to temperature changes
A broken tooth

The main purpose of pulp therapy is that the tooth is not lost. Primary teeth are needed for chewing and speaking and serve as space savers for permanent teeth. Without the primary teeth to guide them, existing neighboring teeth can crowd in, causing permanent teeth to grow in crooked or tilted.

The two forms of pulp therapy for children's teeth are:

Vital Pulp Therapy for Primary (Baby) Teeth [aka Pulpotomy]

Vital pulp therapy is for cases in which the tooth’s pulp may be salvaged. The main purpose is to maintain and protect existing healthy pulp by removing the diseased pulp tissue within the crown portion of the tooth. Next, an agent is placed to prevent bacterial growth and to calm the remaining nerve tissue. This is followed by a final restoration (usually a stainless steel crown).

Non-Vital Pulp Therapy for Primary (Baby) Teeth [aka Pulpectomy]

Non-vital pulp therapy is required when the entire pulp is diseased (into the root canal(s) of the tooth). During this treatment, the diseased pulp tissue is completely removed from all parts of the tooth. The canals are cleansed and filled with a special material meant to be naturally absorbed by the body while the root prepares for the primary tooth to fall out and be replaced by a permanent tooth. A crown is placed on the tooth to prevent fractures.

If the pulp is severely damaged then your doctor may recommend removing the tooth entirely. If this is a case ask if space maintainers are necessary for future development.

About the author:

Dr. Payal Chaudhuri B.D.S., M.D.S.

The author of this article is a Registered Dental Practitioner in India.

She is also associated with a Dental College in Gurgaon, India.

E-mail: dr.payal@hotmail.com

How to choose the right toothbrush?

2011-12-26T14:42:00.003+05:30

1. Pick one with a small head so that it reaches every nook and corner of your mouth

2. Pick one with soft or ultra-soft bristles

3. Change your toothbrush if it starts to show signs of wear and tear, or after every three months

4. Change your brush after you have suffered a bout of cold, since germs can collect on the bristles and cause repeat infection.

Precautions for Brushing Your Teeth

· Don’t apply a lot of pressure while brushing. If you thought that applying extra pressure will clean the teeth better, that’s not true, instead the sensitive tissues wear out to cause bleeding.

· Use a tongue cleaner to get rid of the bacteria on the tongue and keep your breath fresh.

· Use dental floss to clear out the food particles in between your teeth.

· Use Mouthwash: Use an effective mouthwash after as brushing does not reach all parts of your mouth. Gargle your mouth with a good mouthwash to get rid of food particles and harmful bacteria, best after brushing in night.

Wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous & Happy New Year in advance.

About the author:

Dr. Payal Chaudhuri B.D.S., M.D.S.

The author of this article is a Registered Dental Practitioner in India.

She is also associated with a Dental College in Gurgaon, India.

E-mail: dr.payal@hotmail.com

Dental Care in Children

2011-09-22T16:13:00.000+05:30

Seeing the need for an alternative and holistic approach for dental care in children, pediatric dentistry has come into existence as a specialized branch of dentistry. This branch deals with children from birth through adolescence, assuring both primary and comprehensive oral healthcare.

Importance is given to disease causality and prevention, diagnosis and treatment planning, growth, child psychology and behavior management. Children with special healthcare needs, such as in Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation, Autism etc. are given the much needed oral healthcare by expert pediatric dentists.

Playing a special role in preventing tooth decay, pediatric dentists ensure that the child’s primary teeth are kept healthy until they are lost naturally as these teeth perform important functions such as – mastication (chewing), speech and maintaining space for the permanent teeth, thereby guiding proper eruption of permanent teeth.

Contrary to the common belief that those milk teeth need no treatment as they will shed off and be replaced by their permanent counterparts; they need preventive care such as topical fluoride application and placement of pit and fissure sealant. In case the milk teeth are affected with dental caries treatment could vary from simple Restorations (Fillings) to Root Canal Treatments (RCTs) followed by placement of Stainless Steel Crowns. The required treatment would depend on the extent of dental caries diagnosed with radiography.

As a pediatric dentist, it pains me to see the lack of awareness among parents regarding their children’s teeth. The American Dental Association recommends that your child’s first dental visit be either 6 months within the eruption of the first tooth or when your child turns 12 months of age, whichever occurs first. But most commonly parents bring their child to a dentist only when they are under acute pain or with swelling.

Prevention is better than cure. Simple home care measures and oral hygiene habits can prevent the occurrence of dental caries such as supervised brushing twice a day with fluoridated tooth paste, flossing once daily and rinsing mouth after every meal. Last but not the least, visit a pediatric dentist once in every 3 months so that initial cavities can be detected and treated promptly.

About the author:

Dr. Payal Chaudhuri B.D.S., M.D.S.

The author of this article is a Registered Dental Practitioner in India.

She is also associated with a Dental College in Gurgaon, India.

E-mail: dr.payal@hotmail.com

Why Primary Teeth Are Important?

2011-07-25T17:43:00.001+05:30

A very common question I hear from most parents, “Why are the Milk/ Primary Teeth so important, when they eventually fall out on their own?”

Well the answer is simple to understand – Milk/ Primary Teeth stay in place until the Permanent Tooth from bottom erupts, pushing out the Primary Tooth and taking its place. These teeth are important to the natural development and growth of what becomes your child’s permanent smile. The growth of Permanent tooth would be crocked or misaligned in case the guiding factor of the Primary tooth is not in play. Emphasizing healthy oral habits at an early age would also promote good nutrition and encourage a positive self-image.

In some instances, when a child loses baby teeth too soon, a space maintainer may be recommended to prevent space loss and future dental damage. Consult your dentist to find out if this is an option for your child, in case the Primary teeth are missing or not aligned already.

You must also read about:

“What should I know about my child’s teeth and its development?” by clicking here http://gurgaondentist.blogspot.com/2011/01/what-should-i-know-about-my-childs_6933.html

“How to prepare my child for his/her dental visits?” by clicking here http://gurgaondentist.blogspot.com/2011/01/how-to-prepare-my-child-for-hisher.html

About the author:

Dr. Payal Chaudhuri B.D.S., M.D.S.

The author of this article is a Registered Dental Practitioner in India.

She is also associated with a Dental College in Gurgaon, India.

E-mail: dr.payal@hotmail.com

Your teeth don’t need to retire with you!

2011-06-27T12:25:00.001+05:30

Tooth loss is primarily the result of not being able to prevent oral disease and not a result of the aging process. Taking care of your teeth can help them last a lifetime. Yes you read it right, lifetime! Proper oral care can keep you smiling well into your retirement. Brushing twice a day with a medium-bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste is as important as ever. Further flossing can help you save your teeth by removing plaque between teeth and below the gum line, where your toothbrush is unable to reach.

What are some problems I should watch for?

· Gingivitis and Periodontitis: Most people don't realize how important it is to take care of their gums. Gingivitis is an early stage gum disease which is caused by the bacteria found in plaque that attack the gums. Symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen gums and possible bleeding when you brush. If you have any of these symptoms, see a dentist at once. If left untreated, Gingivitis can advance into Periodontitis. Three out of four adults over the age of 35 are affected by some sort of gum disease. In Periodontitis, the infection becomes severe. Your gums begin to recede, pulling back from the teeth. In the worst cases, bacteria form pockets between the teeth and gums, further weakening the bone. All this can lead to tooth loss if untreated. If regular oral care is too difficult, your dentist can provide alternatives to aid in flossing and prescribe medication to keep the infection from getting worse.

· Oral Cancer: Oral Cancer most often occurs in people over 40 years of age. You are advised to see a dentist immediately if you notice any red or white patches on your cheek lines, gums or tongue, and watch for sores that fail to heal within two weeks. Unfortunately, oral cancer is often difficult to detect in its early stages, when it can be cured easily. Your dentist can perform a head and neck exam to screen for signs of cancer. Since oral cancer is often painless in its early stages, many patients will not notice the signs until it is too late. Aged people, especially those who wear dentures, do not visit their dentists enough and problems goes unseen.

· Dry mouth or Xerostomia: This condition is presented when the salivary glands fail to work. This happens due to certain diseases, medications (ex: medicines used to treat some form of cancer) or even otherwise. This condition makes it difficult to taste, chew, swallow, and speak. Since saliva play a major role in preventing tooth decay, this condition needs medical attention and care. In certain cases, such as radiation therapy, dry mouth can lead to severe complications, which is why it is important for you see a dentist immediately before beginning any form of cancer treatment. Drinking lots of water and avoiding sweets, tobacco, alcohol and caffeine are some ways to fight dry mouth. Your dentist also can prescribe medications to fight severe dry mouth.

Are you having difficulties in brushing?

If you have arthritis, you may find it difficult to brush and floss. Ask your dentist for ways to overcome this problem. Certain dental products are designed to make dental care less painful for arthritis sufferers. You may want to try strapping the toothbrush to a larger object, such as a ball, to make the brush more comfortable to handle, or use an electric toothbrush.

Maintaining your overall health:

Good oral health will keep your body healthier and can help you to an extent from avoiding certain illnesses, such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, etc. It is important that you visit your dentist for a cleaning at least twice a year, to keep a check on your oral health.

About the author:

Dr. Payal Chaudhuri B.D.S., M.D.S.

The author of this article is a Registered Dental Practitioner in India

She is also associated with a Dental College in Gurgaon, India

Did you know of Dental Sealants?

2011-05-09T17:05:00.003+05:30

More than 35% of my cases would not have visited a dentist, in case they would have taken a small step to use dental sealant. I have been advocating the use of dental sealants to almost all my clients. It is a small investment to avoid quite a lot of risk of tooth decay.

With some back teeth (molars), even after brushing and flossing, there might be areas on the chewing surface that are not accessible with a toothbrush bristle. That would in turn be an area where the grooves are deep, and plaque (containing cavity causing bacteria) can penetrate and place the tooth at the risk of cavities, finally tooth decay. Sealant which is a resin based material, can act as a protective coverage placed by a dentist to reduce the chances of getting cavities on these areas. Sealant can be applied very easily using a brush and is hardened using a special dental light. Some sealant materials release fluoride and can further prevent from cavities to form.

Children between the ages of 5 and 15 benefit most from sealants, since it is best applied soon after the molars have erupted before the teeth have a chance to decay.

Sealants lasts for years, but some additional care can help them last even longer.

About the author:

Dr. Payal Chaudhuri B.D.S., M.D.S.

The author of this article is a Registered Dental Practitioner in India.

She is also associated with a Dental College in Gurgaon, India.

E-mail: dr.payal@hotmail.com

Is chewing gum a bad habit? Should I let my child chew gum?

2011-03-25T17:52:00.000+05:30

Lately, I have been asked this question by many parents. Therefore to get straight to the point, chewing gum is not a bad habit! However, too much of anything can lead to its abuse, which is definitely not good.

Studies have suggested that chewing gum stimulates salivary flow and inhibits bacterial activities that cause tooth decay. Chewing gum right after your meal can be considered a good habit, as in addition to protecting from tooth decay; this can help reduce that pungent mouth odour after a meal.

Dentists would not recommend chewing gum for:

- Those who have bad TMJ problems, so that one doesn’t aggravate their problems further

- Those who experience muscle fatigue or jaw joint pain from chewing

- Young children, who might choke themselves with wad of gum

- Those who get headaches due to the stress of chewing

You ought to pick a sugarless gum, that's a no brainer. In fact, gum with Xylitol has proven to be particularly beneficial. Here is a link to a research article for further reading – talking on the “Policy on the Use of Xylitol in Caries Prevention”. However if your chewing gum contains sugar, it should be chewed for at least 15 to 20 minutes, as only after this time, the sugar is gone, but the saliva is sufficiently stimulated to rinse away some of the sugar residue.

You may be able to spot some chewing gums containing fluorides, which can be a good thing for kids or adults who are prone to high cariogenic (caries forming) activities. However, you are advised to consult your dentist on this before starting to consume fluoride contacting chewing gums.

Be informed and remember not to give Xylitol to dogs, it can be lethal for them.

About the author:

Dr. Payal Chaudhuri B.D.S., M.D.S.

The author of this article is a Registered Dental Practitioner in India.

She is also associated with a Dental College in Gurgaon, India.

E-mail: dr.payal@hotmail.com

Wisdom can be painful – talking of Wisdom Tooth!

2011-03-03T22:00:00.000+05:30

The third molar is known as the “Wisdom Tooth” which most of us get in our late teens or early twenties. Rarely these teeth can be a valuable asset (only if healthy and properly aligned), but most often, they are misaligned and require extraction.

Most of us are inclined to comfortably hold a set of 28 teeth out of the 32, and thus the new entry for a wisdom tooth seldom has any space for it. The lack of space further adds to the problem as the eruption of wisdom tooth are strained to be misaligned - they can position themselves horizontally, be angled toward or away from the second molars or be angled inward or outward the jaw line. Misaligned teeth crowds around the adjacent teeth and increases the probability of damage to these teeth. The damage can advance to the jawbone and sometimes to the nerves. Wisdom teeth that lean toward the second molars make those teeth more vulnerable to decay, by entrapping plaque and debris.

Other notable problems with a wisdom tooth are that, it can be entrapped completely within the soft tissue and/or the jawbone. These erupt only partially through the gum, and are termed as "impacted". A wisdom tooth that partially erupts allow an opening for bacteria to enter around the tooth and cause infection, which results in pain, swelling, jaw stiffness, and general illness. Partially erupted teeth are more prone to tooth decay and gum disease because they are hard-to-reach and awkward positioning makes brushing and flossing difficult.

The painful condition warrants an immediate removal of the wisdom tooth, though sometimes it is advisable to go for an extraction immediately. It is important to understand that your wisdom tooth has no function in the modern times, and it can only increase your problem. It is believed that the skulls of human ancestors had larger jaws with more teeth, which were possibly used to chew down plants to compensate for a lack of ability to efficiently digest the cellulose. As human diets changed, smaller jaws gradually evolved, yet the third molars, or "wisdom teeth", still commonly develop in human mouths.

During your check-up, your dentist may take an orthopantomogram x-ray to diagnose the need for removal of the wisdom tooth. This x-ray gives the dentist a clear view of the area around the wisdom teeth, to determine the type of extraction necessary for each tooth.

An extraction of wisdom tooth is mandated when:

- They are erupting into an abnormal position, such as tilted, sideways or twisted

- They are trapped below the gum line due to lack of space

- An infection has developed from trapped food, plaque and bacteria, known as pericoronitis

- The way the teeth bite together has changed, causing misalignment of the jaws

- The erupted wisdom tooth lacks proper hygiene, because it is hard to reach, resulting in tooth decay

Some believe that the extraction of wisdom tooth can be a painful encounter, as this part of the mouth is not easy to access and this being the third molar has deep roots which will make it difficult to extract. However it is important to give credit to the latest developments and sedation dentistry which can make this experience completely contrary to one’s imagination.

Life is not always about being able to bear the pain!

About the author:

Dr. Payal Chaudhuri B.D.S., M.D.S.

The author of this article is a Registered Dental Practitioner in India.

She is also associated with a Dental College in Gurgaon, India.

E-mail: dr.payal@hotmail.com

Wasting your teeth in love for Soft drinks?

2011-01-27T20:50:00.000+05:30

For many of us, a glass of soft drink has become a part of our meals, whereas there are others who are hooked on to sodas throughout the day. While a sip of it can be very tasteful and refreshing, it can cause tooth decay and erosion.

Believe it or not, some even consider it to be a style statement to drink sodas in place of water, but I urge you to think over it once. Can you believe that every ingredient of a soft drink is against your oral well-being?

A 300 ml bottle of soft drink contains more than 10 teaspoons of Sugar, which is as detrimental for an obese patient as much it is injurious to your teeth. Tooth Decay is caused by sugar, simple. The bacteria in the mouth use this sugar for their metabolism, and the by -product of this process leads to formation of acid. This acid in turn causes demineralization of the tooth, consequently dental caries (or tooth decay). Click here to read more about Dental Caries!

Diet soda saves you from the above affect of sugars but they contain Phosphoric Acid and Citric Acid. Most soft drinks are acidic, with pH of 3.0 or even lower. Drinking acidic drinks over a long period of time and continuous sipping can erode the tooth enamel.

Most sodas contain Caffeine in addition to sugar and acids. The caffeine is a great stimulant that many of us like, but it dries out your mouth. Salivation helps washing away of the sugar and bacteria, which is affected adversely when consuming large volume of Caffeine. People who combine caffeinated sodas and smoking (a disastrous recipe), can anticipate rampant tooth decay.

Sipping on a beverage is probably like stoking the fire of tooth decay. It would be better to drink the soda promptly and then rinse your mouth with water to wash away the sugars that the plaque loves. Don’t underestimate the value of rinsing your mouth with water. While use of bottle water is in vogue, but it is probably the second best choice as it does not contain fluoride.

I came across one interesting video the other day, though unrelated to this blog topic, but is an interesting one.

Quick Fact: It has also been suggested that brushing teeth right after drinking soft drinks should be avoided as this can result in additional erosion to the teeth due to the presence of acid.

Drinking through a straw is advised as the drink is then swallowed from the back of the mouth and does not come into contact with the teeth as much. Otherwise, I strongly recommend limiting the use of sodas.

Youngistaan is informed, isn’t it?

About the author:

Dr. Payal Chaudhuri B.D.S., M.D.S.

The author of this article is a Registered Dental Practitioner in India.

She is also associated with a Dental College in Gurgaon, India.

E-mail: dr.payal@hotmail.com

Teeth Whitening – it’s result-oriented, easy, safe and cost-effective...

2011-01-24T22:01:00.000+05:30

People today are far more cognizant of their looks, and therefore one of the most sought after treatment procedures in the field of Cosmetic Dentistry is Teeth Whitening. Teeth whitening is considered as one of the safest and most conservative dental cosmetic procedures. Even individuals with healthy teeth try whitening systems for brighter smile, while others with stained teeth are looking for some solution.

Drinking coffee, tea, cola and smoking are the most common causes of teeth stains, whereas it can also result from your genetic make-up, ageing, antibiotic (tetracycline) use, excessive fluoride use or those old fillings.

The first step to teeth whitening is getting your teeth cleaned regularly – brushing and flossing twice a day. Toothpaste typically has small particles of silica, aluminum oxide, calcium carbonate or calcium phosphate to grind off stains from the teeth. However a professional cleaning occasionally will help keep stains out of micro-cracks in the enamel.

There are many products to whiten teeth, e.g., Whitening Strips, Whitening Pen, Whitening Gel, Laser Whitening, and Natural Whitening.

Power Bleaching (Laser Bleaching), uses light energy to accelerate the process of bleaching in a dental clinic. Different types of light can be used, such as Halogen, LED, or Plasma Arc.

One of the less know types of teeth whitening system is Internal Bleaching (Walking Bleach), which is performed on the tooth that has undergone root canal treatment but is discolored due to internal staining of the tooth structure. Unlike other teeth whitening methods which brightens tooth from the outside, internal bleaching brightens tooth from inside out.

Gel bleaching is performed with high-concentration gel in the dental clinic however low-concentration agents are advised at home. Hydrogen peroxide is typically used in treatments done in professional clinics while the Carbamide Peroxide is slow-acting and found in most over-the-counter products. These products can be applied by wearing customized thin flexible trays filled with the bleaching agent.

It is however most important to get your teeth checked by a dentist before using any of these whitening systems. Your dentist will examine your health and dental history, examine the hard and soft tissues, any placements and conditions of restoration, and sometimes perform an x-rays investigation to determine the nature and depth of possible irregularities.

It is wrong to assume that – all teeth whiten the same, as some of those stains which are deep-seated will not go even with professional cleaning. Moreover crowns and fillings will not change its color when considering teeth whitening. All whitening gels are not the same, and that sometimes it requires weeks to see the results. It is best that you see dentists first, even if you are just considering over-the-counter methods. Your dentist can show you what you can hope to expect.

Lastly, if you are planning to undergo the whitening or bleaching process, remember the following:

· Bleaching agents cause sensitivity and can aggravate gum diseases.

· It may be painful if you have "sensitive teeth" caused by open dentinal tubules.

· Crowns, fillings and veneers will not be bleached. If you have veneers on the front teeth, they may need to be replaced in order to match your other teeth.

· Some teeth whitening methods could end you up with unnaturally white teeth. Over-bleaching is known in the profession as "over-white teeth" aka "Hyperodonto-oxidation".

· Rebound, or teeth losing the bleached effect, particularly with the intensive treatments (products that provide a large change in tooth color over a very short treatment period, e.g., 1 hour).

So remember to trade carefully, between looks and health.

About the author:

Dr. Payal Chaudhuri B.D.S., M.D.S.

The author of this article is a Registered Dental Practitioner in India.

She is also associated with a Dental College in Gurgaon, India.

E-mail: dr.payal@hotmail.com

What you eat can affect your dental health!

2011-01-13T20:44:00.001+05:30

In my previous post, I elucidated the importance of regular tooth care to avoid cavities; however your diet can be the culprit too. Eating healthy is just as important as routine brushing and flossing.

The teeth has to go through a cycle of de-mineralization and re-mineralization, which means that they slowly breakdown and then repair themselves, and your dietary intake is in charge to strike the balance.

Blame it on the Sugars:

If you have read my previous blog on Caries, you already know that the dietary components that contribute mostly in development of caries are fermentable carbohydrates. The food products containing sugar and sticky food are fermented by bacteria present in the mouth to produce acids responsible in erosion of the tooth. Sucrose has been identified as the arch-criminal in inducing dental caries. Sucrose refined from sugar canes or sugar beets is the most common dietary sugar and is largely responsible for the effects of sugar as described here. In addition to well-known sweet products such as candies, cakes, desserts, jam, dried fruits and soft drinks, surprisingly a large variety of other common foods contain added sucrose, e.g. most breakfast cereals, many milk products, some meat and fish products, salads, dressings, ketchup, etc.

Again it is important to remember that the frequency of sugar intake is more important than the amount of sugar consumed, so one has to cut down on frequent eating/snacking.

The Balancing Act:

The caries inducing effect of sugar is modified (either increased or reduced) in several ways by other foods. Caries reducing effect of phosphates, which are found naturally in many foods (especially unrefined cereals) or which could be added to foods has been demonstrated to be effective and safe. Nuts (cashews, peanuts, almonds and walnuts) are rich in calcium, magnesium and phosphate, which are important nutrients for the tooth and are vital in re-mineralization of teeth. Vitamin A (sources: mango, peach, carrot, spinach, apricot) and Vitamin C (sources: citrus fruits, muskmelon, strawberry, broccoli, potato, tomato) play a role in maintaining healthy teeth. Fluoride, proteins and fats also prevents in development of caries.

Guru Mantra: Drink plenty of water which will help flush food particles from your mouth.

For the little ones:

American Dental Association recommends:

· Limiting the frequency of consumption of drinks with sugar.

· Avoid giving baby bottles filled with milk or juices to put the infants to sleep (if unavoidable, give water instead).

· Mothers/ Caregivers should avoid sharing utensils and cups with their infants to prevent transfer of bacteria from their mouth to the children.

Preventive Care:

As discussed in the previous post “Sealants” are a great way to avoid cavities, as they form a protective layer and saves from the acid attack. Sealant is a liquid resin used to fill those grooves in the enamel of a tooth, where the food usually gets stuck and is difficult to clean. Sealants usually are long lasting, but they may sometime need replacement if damaged.

Your dentist can advice you further on a diet plan.

About the author:

Dr. Payal Chaudhuri B.D.S., M.D.S.

The author of this article is a Registered Dental Practitioner in India.

She is also associated with a Dental College in Gurgaon, India.

E-mail: dr.payal@hotmail.com

Dental Caries is common!

2011-01-11T22:50:00.000+05:30

Dental Caries or Tooth Decay or Tooth Cavities is one of the most common of all disorders, second only to the common cold. It is a common cause of tooth loss in younger people.

Caries are visible region of the tooth in brownish black color and soft to touch. In severe cases dental caries progresses to surrounding soft tissues and results in swelling of the facial region around the mouth.

How can one get these?

To put this in a simple form, the bacteria in the mouth convert food debris in the plaque into acids. The acids dissolve the enamel of the tooth to create a hole. Plaque is formed rapidly after eating and this is the time when bacterial activities are also at its peak.

Take action, before it’s late!

As you may be aware that when these cavities are left untreated they develops further and destroys the internal structures of the tooth and may cause loss of the tooth. Cavities are usually painless unless they impinge on the nerves as they grow deep, and therefore a routine dental checkup is so critical. A dental x-rays can help detect cavities even before they are visible to the eyes.

It’s advisable to spend a few hundred rupees every 6 months and save thousands!

Cavities are usually treated using restorative measures – cleaning and filling with tooth color composite. However, in advance stages a Root Canal Treatment may be required. Please do not forget the crown after the Root Canal Treatment.

Prevention is better than cure:

Maintaining good oral hygiene is the key to stay away from painful cavities and subsequent tooth loss. Here is an eye chart to uphold that oral hygiene:

· Brush well for 2 mins, two times a day – Don’t neglect those teeth which are not reachable effortlessly.

· Floss once a day.

· Pea size toothpaste is enough, as use of excess toothpaste will erode the teeth. Gel toothpaste contains silica which is more abrasive.

· Fluoride is known to protect against dental caries as it can neutralize the acids. Fluoride toothpaste or mouthwash is common, however topical fluoride application during routine dental visits may be advised.

· Rinse your mouth with Chlorhexidine mouthwash, occasionally.

· Rinse your mouth well after meals.

· Cut down on frequent snacking.

· Avoid constant sipping of sugary drinks.

· Avoid sticky foods, candies and mints, else rinse your mouth after you are done with the treat!

· Cut down on those alcohol parties.

· A professional cleaning every 6 months, with a dental check-up.

Infants should not be put to sleep with a bottle of juice and milk, as both contains sugar. The sugar remains on the teeth overnight resulting in the formation of "Nursing Bottle Caries". If it is unavoidable to put the baby off to sleep without a bottle, put some water in the bottle instead.

Dental caries is the most chronic disease of the childhood, which begins when bacteria are passed from mothers or caregivers to children.

Notable:

Sugars increase the risk of tooth decay.

Sticky foods are more harmful than non-sticky foods.

Frequent snacking increases the time that acids are in contact with the surface of the tooth.

Did you know?

Dental sealants can prevent some cavities. Sealants are thin plastic-like coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the molars. This coating prevents the accumulation of plaque in the deep grooves on these vulnerable surfaces. Sealants are usually applied on the teeth of children, shortly after the molars erupt. Older people may also benefit from the use of tooth sealants.

Be informed and take good care of your white pearls.

About the author:

Dr. Payal Chaudhuri B.D.S., M.D.S.

The author of this article is a Registered Dental Practitioner in India.

She is also associated with a Dental College in Gurgaon, India.

E-mail: dr.payal@hotmail.com

What should I know about my child’s teeth and its development?

2011-01-07T20:38:00.001+05:30

It is important for the parents to be aware of the development of the Milk Teeth (or Primary or Baby Teeth) and the Permanent Teeth for their child. An accurate chronology of primary and permanent tooth calcification is of great significance and requires monitoring by a qualified dentist for early signals of anomalies if any. The formation of tooth is an intricate and complex phenomenon which involves five stages, namely:

ü Initiation (Bud Stage)

ü Proliferation (Cap Stage)

ü Histodifferentiation or Morphodifferentiation (Bell Stage)

ü Apposition

ü and Calcification (Crown Stage)

Development starts in utero: Primary teeth begin to form prenatally about 14 weeks in utero. The first tooth usually erupts by the 6th or 7th month, but some may not get their first tooth until after the age of 12 months. Usually the lower teeth grow out before the upper teeth. At 18 months, babies usually have 12 teeth and by 3 years, all 20 primary teeth will have erupted. Review the chart in the end of this blog to understand the tooth development timelines, further.

Teething problems: Babies often start drooling a month or two before the first tooth erupts. While teething, they may be uncomfortable. This can be soothed by use of pacifiers (teething ring). Please be cautious to buy a branded and approved one. If the baby is still uncomfortable, acetaminophen drops can be started in consultation with your dentist. Myth, myth, myth: Fever, Cold, and Diarrhea are not caused by teething. If indeed these symptoms exist they should not be assumed to be due to teething and a pediatrician should be consulted.

Primary teeth are to shed: Yes, the primary teeth are not permanent; however they play a vital role. They are necessary for chewing and eating until 6 yrs or more, maintain space and guide the eruption of the permanent teeth in position, and allow the jaw bones and muscles to develop normally. Especially the molars are not replaced until the teenage years and so they will serve a child for 10 years or more.

Human tooth development timeline
(Source: Wikipedia)

Neither should one worry more if the primary teeth appear late or if they appear early, however consulting your dentist is advisable.

Signing off!

About the author:

Dr. Payal Chaudhuri B.D.S., M.D.S. (Pediatric Dentist)

The author of this article is a Registered Dental Practitioner in India.

She is also associated with a Dental College in Gurgaon, India.

E-mail: dr.payal@hotmail.com

How to prepare my child for his/her dental visits?

2011-01-05T10:00:00.000+05:30

The visit to the dentist can be a pleasant adventure for your child.

It is imperative to inform the child prior and talk about the upcoming visit in a positive, matter-of-fact manner. To make the dental visit an enjoyable outing, don't let the child know of your own anxieties or fears with dentistry, if you have any. It is advisable to not relate dentistry to pain as with modern techniques, the treatments are almost painless. Come may what, but don’t portrait dental visits as a way to punish your child for their bad behavior.

You can reward your child for good behavior during the dental treatment. You should not bribe them, as children generally believe that bribes are related to their negative experiences. A well-trained pediatric dentist is usually an expert to tackle your child’s behavior during the dental procedure, and to reinforce positive attitude towards dentistry. Moreover your encouraging approach can strengthen a positive dental experience for the child, leading to a lifetime of healthy teeth.

During the first visit the teeth and gums will be examined for dental problems like decay, improper alignments, bad breath, etc. Simple procedures like teeth cleaning and fluoride application could be done in the first visit. Depending on the severity of dental problems, a treatment plan is decided. Home care skills should be discussed to help the teeth stay strong and healthy.

Noteworthy: The primary teeth or “milk teeth” are very important for the future development of the permanent teeth. They maintain the space that is needed so that the permanent teeth can erupt in a normal alignment. Other than this vital role of the primary teeth, it has other important functions like mastication (or chewing), speech & aesthetics. The first visit should be after the first milk tooth erupts (that is by 6 months of age) and no later than 1 year of age.

Stay connected and informed!

About the author:

Dr. Payal Chaudhuri B.D.S., M.D.S.

The author of this article is a Registered Dental Practitioner in India.

She is also associated with a Dental College in Gurgaon, India.

E-mail: dr.payal@hotmail.com

Do I need a crown after a root canal?

2011-01-02T15:48:00.001+05:30

Welcome New Year 2011. I wish endless smiles for everyone this year!

When a root canal procedure is done, a crown is most often suggested to be placed on the tooth. It is advisable to wait for a few weeks, if possible, before having a crown placed. The reason is you want to make sure the tooth is healing well after the root canal therapy procedure. Should there be any problems with the tooth, it is much easier for your dentist to retreat the tooth. In most cases, a composite filling can be placed on the tooth until a more permanent restoration, such as a crown, can be placed.

A lot of patients do not return to have a crown placed subsequent to a root canal treatment procedure, and believe me this is an awful choice to make. The usual reason for patient not returning for a crown being placed is the cost, but let me advise you that it is worth the money you spend in long run.

Read further to learn about the two essential reasons that you need to consider a crown:

1. Save that brittle thing: You do not want the tooth to crack, break, or crumble into pieces from the stress you oral cavity undergo daily. After a root canal treatment the tooth becomes brittle which leaves the tooth in a vulnerable condition and placing a crown on the tooth will protect the fragile tooth and gives the tooth some added strength and durability for chewing.

2. Save from infections: The aim of root canal therapy is “Hermitic Sealing” – which is to make the tooth sterile and free from infections in the future. During the final stages of the root canal therapy the inside of the tooth is filled with root canal cement. If the infection re-occurs, the root canal therapy has failed and the tooth will either need to be retreated or extracted. A crown covers the entire outside of the tooth, acting as a protective barrier against bacteria and debris, thus helping to prevent the root canal therapy from failing.

Be informed and take good care of your white pearls.

About the author:

Dr. Payal Chaudhuri B.D.S., M.D.S.

The author of this article is a Registered Dental Practitioner in India.

She is also associated with a Dental College in Gurgaon, India.

E-mail: dr.payal@hotmail.com

Don’t be scared, it’s good to be informed!

2010-12-31T12:34:00.000+05:30

Oh dear! Found this slide show regarding food and drinks that are notorious for staining your teeth.

http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/healthy-teeth-10/slideshow-foods-stain-teeth

Take care.

About the author:

Dr. Payal Chaudhuri B.D.S., M.D.S.

The author of this article is a Registered Dental Practitioner in India.

She is also associated with a Dental College in Gurgaon, India.

E-mail: dr.payal@hotmail.com

What are those alcohol parties doing to your oral health?

2010-12-31T10:10:00.000+05:30

We are all set to welcome the New Year 2011, with a great bash. Some of you have plans to host a grand party at your home and some are going out to those happening pubs and discotheques in the city. By now you might have decided which brand of liquor to pick and what sizzlers to order. The main course usually is decided later, only if you don’t feel like skipping it after stomach full of spirit.

Alcohol, though is enjoyable in a drunkard state, it is known to damage many internal organs and your TEETH as well. Alcohol is a napalm bomb of sugars, which, when metabolized by the saliva in the mouth, turns into plaque. Gin, Rum, Vodka, Whiskey, Brandy and all sorts of alcohol (and not to mention beer) have high concentrations of sugar. Alcohol gets metabolized into sugar, and then the sugar into plaque faster than you can wake up from a hangover. The situation gets worse because almost every drunkard forgets to brush his/her teeth after drinking a bottle full of spirit. I know you must be laughing – “Who cares to brush after a drink or two, huh?”

Wine talk: Consumption of wine is rising in India, and more so in the metro cities like ours, Gurgaon. Some of the serene celebrations this New Year eve would be at a classy restaurant with some wine raised to toast. Grapes and apples are two of the primary ingredients used in wine. Both of these fruits, when fermented, convert sugar into alcohol. Some of the fruit will not be fermented, turning some of the extract into residual sugar, which is another danger to teeth, even at a measly 1% to 3% content – meaning not even dry wine is completely free from sugar. Winemakers have also been deliberately adding sugar to boost its alcoholic content. Excuse me, my dear brewer friends!

Gum disease is also very widespread in alcohol drinkers. Middle-aged men are prone to periodontal disease, gingivitis and bad breath. The discouraging part is one brushes their teeth only for less than a minute without even gargling thoroughly. Overnight liquor stains on teeth can’t be scraped off with just a few brush strokes. If a drinking party can’t be helped, be sure to brush well and the mouthwash after the party is over.

Humble submission: The chances of contracting cancer are higher if the person is a day drinker, because the metabolism of the body is highest during the day. The basic knowledge that we salivate more during the course of the day than at night gives us the notion that drinking during day is more likely to speed up the deterioration of our teeth, regardless if we brush or not.

Wine has been an essential part of the lifestyle of many people and generations to come. It’s a sinful treat to bust off a week’s heavy workload in a weekend alcohol party. People like it – Women find it refreshing, Men indulge in it, Teenagers try every means to sneak it into a party, Old people enjoy wine-tasting. But beyond the acclamation alcohol receives, it still gets no unanimous praise from the medical fraternity, especially from the dentists. So be warned.

Wish you all a very Happy & Health New Year 2011 ahead!

About the author:

Dr. Payal Chaudhuri B.D.S., M.D.S.

The author of this article is a Registered Dental Practitioner in India.

She is also associated with a Dental College in Gurgaon, India.

E-mail: dr.payal@hotmail.com