Make it fun! If you are enthusiastic about brushing your teeth, your children will also be enthusiastic. Children want to do the things their parents do. If your children see you brushing your teeth and displaying good dental habits, they will follow. Ask the dentist for other creative ways to get children to brush their teeth. Getting your children to brush starts with taking them to the dentist at an early age. All children should be seen by their first birthday or 6 months after the eruption of the first tooth.
The day after your surgery, you may brush your teeth, but avoid brushing near the surgical site(s) for 3 days. Rinse with ½ cup warm water and a pinch of salt beginning 24 hours after surgery. Swelling around the mouth, eyes and cheeks is normal following any surgery, and usually takes 2-3 days to fully develop.
A toothbrush will remove plaque bacteria that can lead to decay. Any EXTRA soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head, preferably one designed specifically for infants, should be used at least once a day at bedtime.
The ideal time for your child to meet the dentist is six months after their first (primary) teeth erupt. This gives your dentist a perfect opportunity to carefully examine the development of their mouth and catch problems such as baby bottle tooth decay, teething irritations and prolonged thumb-sucking early.
In order to prevent dental problems, your child should see a paediatric dentist when the first tooth appears or no later than his/her first birthday.
Paediatric dentists are the paediatricians of dentistry. A paediatric dentist has two to three years specialty training following dental school and limits his/her practice to treating children only. Paediatric dentists are primary and specialty oral care providers for infants and children through adolescence, including those with special health needs.
Primary, or "baby," or milk teeth are important for many reasons. Not only do they help children speak clearly and chew naturally, they also aid in forming a path that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to erupt.
First, rinse the irritated area with warm salt water and place a cold compress on the face if it is swollen. Visit us at Belle 32 for prescription and necessary relief as soon as possible.
Thumb and pacifier sucking habits will generally only become a problem if they go on for a very long period of time. Most children stop these habits on their own, but if they are still sucking their thumbs or fingers past the age of three, a mouth appliance may be recommended by us.
Avoid nursing children to sleep or putting anything other than water in their bed-time bottle. Also, learn the proper way to brush and floss your child's teeth. Take your child to a paediatric dentist regularly to have his/her teeth and gums checked. The first dental visit should be scheduled by your child's first birthday.
A check-up every six months is recommended in order prevent cavities and other dental problems. However, your paediatric dentist can tell you when and how often your child should visit based on their personal oral health.
The sooner the better! Clean your child’s gums with a soft infant toothbrush or muslin cloth and water. As soon as the teeth begin to appear, start brushing twice daily using fluoridated toothpaste and a soft, age-appropriate sized toothbrush. Use a "smear" of toothpaste to brush the teeth of a child 2 years of age and younger. For the 3-6 year old, dispense a "pea-size" amount of toothpaste and perform or assist your child’s tooth brushing. Remember that young children do not have the ability to brush their teeth effectively. Children should spit out and not swallow excess toothpaste after brushing. Toothpaste is not meant to swallow.
Make sure your child has a balanced diet, including one serving each of: fruits and vegetables, cereals and lots of water. Diet should be rich in fibre. Limiting the servings of sugars and starches will also aid in protecting your child's teeth from decay. You can also ask us to help you select foods that protect your children's teeth.
Sealants work by filling in the crevasses on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. This shuts out food particles that could get caught in the teeth, causing cavities. The application is fast and comfortable and can effectively protect teeth for many years.
Soft plastic mouth guards can be used to protect a child's teeth, lips, cheeks and gums from sport related injuries. A custom-fitted mouth guard developed by a paediatric dentist will protect your child from injuries to the teeth, face and even provide protection from severe injuries to the head.
The most important thing to do is to remain calm. Then find the tooth. Hold it by the crown rather than the root and try to reinsert it in the socket. If that is not possible, put the tooth in a glass of milk and take your child and the glass immediately to the paediatric dentist.
Parents should take their children to the dentist regularly, beginning with the eruption of the first tooth. Then, the dentist can recommend a specific program of brushing, flossing, and other treatments for parents to supervise and teach to their children. These home treatments, when added to regular dental visits and a balanced diet, will help give your child a lifetime of healthy habits.
Yes! Regular check-ups with your family dentist are important while in braces. Your family dentist will determine the intervals between cleaning appointments while you are in braces.
Dentistry is the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions, disorders, and diseases of the teeth, gums, mouth, and jaw. Often considered necessary for complete oral health, dentistry can have an impact on the health of your entire body.
A dentist is a specialist who works to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health problems. Your dentist has completed at least eight years of schooling, and received either a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) degree, or a DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) degree. If your doctor is a paediatric dentist, this means that he or she specializes in caring for children from infancy through their teen years. A paediatric dentist has received the proper education and training needed to work with young kids. Other specializations include: • Endodontics (root canals) • Oral and maxillofacial (including pathology, radiology, and surgery) • Orthodontics and dento-facial orthopaedics • Periodontics (gum disease) • Prosthodontics (implants) • Pedodontist (child dentist)
Visiting the dentist regularly will not only help keep your teeth and mouth healthy, but will also help to keep the rest of your body healthy. Dental care is important because it: • Helps prevent tooth decay • Protects against periodontal (gum) disease, which can lead to tooth and bone loss • Prevents bad breath – brushing, flossing, and seeing the dentist regularly will help reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth that causes bad breath • Gives you a more attractive smile and increases your self-confidence • Helps keep teeth looking bright by preventing them from becoming stained by food, drinks, and tobacco • Strengthens your teeth so that you can enjoy healthy, beautiful smiles for the rest of your life!
The American Dental Association (ADA) guidelines recommend visiting a dentist at least twice a year for a check-up and professional cleaning. If you have not seen a dentist for a while, schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
The American Dental Association (ADA) guidelines recommend visiting a dentist at least twice a year for a check-up and professional cleaning. If you have not seen a dentist for a while, schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
When you first arrive at BELLE 32, you will be welcomed by a friendly staff member who will work with you in gathering your medical and dental history. We will examine your teeth and gums, make X-rays of your teeth as needed and complete a TMJ (temporomandibular or jaw joint) exam, screen for oral cancer, if required. If treatment (such as a root canal, braces or oral surgery) is necessary, your dentist will thoroughly explain why it is recommended and the benefits of receiving and disadvantages of not receiving that treatment. The dentist will also answer any questions you have. If you decide to move forward, our treatment coordinator will discuss fee payment options and set up a treatment appointment so that you can be on your way to happier and healthier teeth. During regular follow-up visits, we will examine your teeth and gums, thoroughly clean your teeth and make plans for treatment, as needed. We will discuss any pain or problem(s) you may be experiencing and answer any questions you have.
Radiographic or X-ray examinations provide your dentist with an important diagnostic tool that shows the condition of your teeth, their roots, jaw placement and the overall composition of your facial bones. X-Rays can help your dentist determine the presence or degree of periodontal disease, abscesses and many abnormal growths, such as cysts and tumours. X-rays can also show the exact location of impacted teeth. They can pinpoint the location of cavities and other signs of disease that may not be possible to detect through visual examination (such as changes in the jaw bone structure as a result of systemic disease).
Exposure to all sources of radiation -- including the sun, minerals in the soil, appliances in your home, and dental X-rays -- can damage the body's tissues and cells and lead to the development of cancer. Fortunately, the dose of radiation you are exposed to during the taking of X-rays is extremely small. Advances in dentistry over the years have lead to the low radiation levels emitted by dental X-rays. Some of the improvements are new digital X-ray machines that limit the radiation beam to the small area being X-rayed, higher speed X-ray films that require shorter exposure time compared with older film speeds to get the same results, and the use of film holders that keep the film in place in the mouth (which prevents the film from slipping and the need for repeat X-rays and additional radiation exposure). Also, the use of lead-lined, full-body aprons protects the body from stray radiation (though this is almost non-existent with the modern dental X-ray machines.)
Immediately. Getting to a dentist within 30 minutes can make the difference between saving and losing a tooth. When a tooth is knocked out: • Immediately visit us at Belle 32 for an emergency appointment. • Handle the tooth by the crown, not the root. Touching the root (the part of the tooth below the gum) can damage cells necessary for bone reattachment. • Gently rinse the tooth in water to remove dirt. Do not scrub. • Place the clean tooth in your mouth between the cheek and the gum to keep it moist. • It is important not to let the tooth dry out. • It is not possible to store the tooth in the mouth of the injured person, wrap the tooth in a clean cloth or gauze and immerse in milk.
A root canal is a narrow passage in the tooth through which the blood vessel & nerves enter the tooth. They travel from the end of the root through the root canal to the pulp chamber in the centre of the tooth. These nerves send pain signals to the brain in response to decay as injury.
Removal of the infected nerves & blood vessels from the pulp chamber & root canal is known as Root Canal Treatment. It is professionally called an Endodontic Treatment.
There are various reasons for infection. Primary reason being Decay. Decay spreads from an unattended deep cavity to the pulp chamber & further down to the root canal leading to infection of the pulp known as Pulpitis.. This infection can further spread beyond the tip of the tooth leading to an Abscess around the tooth in the bone leading to a more severe infection. Root canal can also get infected in case of fractured or injured tooth. Sometimes in case of severe gum infection, the infection / pus travels from the gum to the tooth necessitating Root canal treatments.
Most common indication of your teeth requiring Root Canal Treatment is pain. Mostly teeth are sensitive to cold sensations or sometimes hot sensations. Sometimes there is tenderness on chewing or even continuous throbbing pain. However in case of severe chromic infection, tooth might not be painful but still necessitate Root Canal Treatment due to severity of infection as the infection deadens the nerves & leads to pus accumulation. Swelling in relation to the tooth is also an indication of tooth infection.
The treatment is generally not painful as a local anaesthetic is given prior to the procedure. This numbs the related area as a result of which one does not experience pain. Also it is essential to start a course of Antibiotics & Analgesics (Painkillers) prior to & after treatment. This brings the infection under control thus minimising pain.
The procedure varies depending on severity of the infection. In an acute infection - Single sitting root canal technique is carried out. In a chronic infection, Multiple sitting root canal technique may be required.
Visit us at Belle 32 as soon as possible. If you are not in any pain then make an appointment for tooth reconstruction, but try and keep the tooth as clean as possible and avoid biting hard on that tooth. If you have pain, then you will need to get the root canal and capping done for that tooth as an emergency.
When you face such a problem, do make an appointment with us at Belle 32 as an emergency. We shall reposition your teeth with minimal finger pressure. We may also consider the option of splinting your mobile tooth/teeth. Avoid biting force on that tooth/teeth.
Things happen – and not always on a weekday during normal business hours. To better serve our patients, we invite you to call our office as soon as a dental emergency happens. If it takes place on a weekday, we will be glad to schedule an appointment as quickly as possible. For emergencies after hours, over the weekend and during holidays, please call our doctor’s emergency contact number.
Our Teeth Jewels are glass crystals. Their flat back is surfaced with a special coating to create a sparkle and shine like a diamond.
A Tooth Jewel applied on a natural tooth will stay on until you decide to have it removed again. Based on our experience it will usually stay on for 6 months up to a few years.
The Tooth Jewel comes in various sizes and shapes. Initially something on your tooth will certainly make you feel different, but a few days after the application you will get used to the new feeling.
No! The Jewel is bonded to the enamel like a orthodontic bracket (braces) or a filling to your front tooth, without any drilling or pain. The procedure of gluing and removal of tooth jewel can be compared to the placement and removal of orthodontic brackets. When it is removed it it simply popped off and the tooth will be polished to remove any remaining bonding material.
No, the presence of the gem will not make any difference with teeth brushing. However, it is recommended not to use an electric tooth brush for the first 24 hours after the Jewel has been attached.
The Jewels are tiny glass crystals. They have no sharp edges. It will basically come out “the natural way”, the same as it went inside your body.
Yes, you should have your teeth cleaned by your dentist. Teeth Jewellery will not cause a problem for the dentist cleaning your teeth. The area underneath the Jewel is sealed like a filling and will not let in any bacteria. The dentist can easily polish on top and around the Jewel with a soft point.
The tooth jewel is removed the same way as an orthodontic bracket is without affecting the enamel. After your dentist removes the gem, the tooth needs to be polished, which takes away any remaining bonding materials.
Brushing and flossing are definitely the first steps to eliminating bad breath. Brushing and flossing remove bacteria responsible for creating odorous sulphur compounds and the food they feed on. However, bacteria hide not only on and around the teeth (on the tartar) but also on the tongue under a layer of mucous. Here they are free to create odours. It is best to brush your tongue daily or you may want to consider a tongue scraper. Both are extremely effective at removing this protective mucous layer from the back of the tongue. Also, bacteria reside on tartar which creates odour. Hence, the removal of tartar is mandatory by professional teeth cleaning with us at Belle 32.
As the plaque and calculus accumulate, the periodontal disease continues. Supporting tissues around the teeth (gums, periodontal ligaments, bone) are lost. Periodontal pockets form which trap additional plaque. Bad breath often accompanies this condition. Once the bone that supports the teeth is lost, it will not regrow without surgical intervention.
Treatment will depend upon the type of disease & how far the condition has progressed. • Non surgical treatment options includes: Professional scaling and polishing Root planning or Curettage This is most done in cases of gingivitis & Mild Periodontitis. • Surgical treatment options includes: Flap surgery Soft tissue graft Bone graft This is done in moderate to severe Periodontitis.
This procedure involves the meticulous removal of plaque, tartar & stains around & below the gum line to the bottom of the periodontal pocket. This procedure is carried out in patients with gingivitis. It is a painless procedure.
This procedure involves smoothening the root surfaces of your teeth so as to remove the tartar that is accumalated below the gum level. The gum tissue can more firmly rettach to the roots that are clean & smooth to prevent tooth loss & sensitivity problems. Because this procedure goes deeper than a regular cleaning your mouth may be numbed or anesthetised by a local anesthetic. The cleaning may take two or three visits to complete. It is done in cases with mild periodontitis to prevent further deterioration.
Teeth are held firmly by the supporting tissues of the periodontium including bone. Bad oral hygiene results in the deposition of tartar/calculus on the tooth surface. These deposits irritate the gums and can cause inflammation and bleeding of the gums. If the tartar is not removed, the gums may recede and the supporting tissues of the teeth. However, patients may experience slight mobility of the teeth after tartar is removed as it kind of binds the teeth together. Professional cleaning removes this tartar and arrests further destruction of supporting bone. Removal of tartar deposits only helps to recover the health of supporting structures. This chain of events does not take place in people who have dental checkup regularly.
Bleeding gums is a sign to see your dentist as soon as possible. You can brush your teeth with extra soft toothbrush.
We are proud to say that at Belle 32, we have successfully treated a lot of cases of gum disease which were diagnosed as gum surgery cases by fellow dentists, Non-Surgically. It is our expertise to treat surgical gum cases Non-Surgically.
Gingivitis is an infection within the gums caused by bacteria found in plaque. A diabetic’s body doesn’t respond as quickly to infection as a non-diabetic. If the infection persists, it can spread to the underlying bone that supports and anchors the teeth. It has been shown that diabetics who keep their condition under control and maintain good oral hygiene have a far better chance of combating infections than those who are poorly controlled.
The black filling material used in your teeth is amalgam. It has been used as a filling material for over a hundred years; it’s still one of the strongest materials available. However, it’s about as unattractive a filling material as you can get. There are a number of other tooth-colour restorative materials currently available that can be used to replace old amalgams.
A cavity is a small hole that forms inside the tooth because of tooth decay. Cavities are formed when plaque build-up on the outside of the tooth combines with sugars and starches in the food you eat. This produces an acid that can eat away the enamel on your tooth. If a cavity is left untreated, it can lead to more serious oral health problems. Cavities can be prevented by remembering to brush your teeth at least two times a day and floss between teeth at least once.
A filling is a synthetic material that your dentist uses to fill a cavity after all of the tooth decay has been removed. Fillings do not generally hurt because your dentist will numb your mouth with an anaesthetic. Fillings are made from a variety of different materials, including composites, gold, or ceramic. If you need a filling, be sure to talk to your doctor about what type is best for you and your teeth.
The composite restoration is named after material that is used, namely composite resin. Composite resin is a plastic tooth-coloured material that is used as a filling. It is also called a white or plastic filling. It is aesthetic and durable.
The process of repairing a tooth with a composite filling is called bonding. The composite material is placed into the cavity in layers until the tooth is restored to its original form. The filling is permanently fused or bonded to the tooth with the help of UV Light. This is a major advance for dentistry. There is no longer the need to cut a slot into a tooth to hold a filling in place, as is necessary for an amalgam filling. The preparation for an amalgam filling entails the removal of the decayed part and a small amount of healthy tooth. Less tooth needs to be cut away with bonding, as only the decayed part is cut out. An ultraviolet light is used to harden it, & it can be chewed on immediately after it has been completed. It has this advantage over an amalgam filling which takes a few hours to harden.
A tooth is repaired to protect the part of the tooth that has become exposed by the decay or injury. Restoration can prevent the loss of a tooth, since decay may spread and destroy the tooth. Restoration permits normal eating and chewing. Restored done on the front teeth, fillings improve, the appearance of teeth and the face.
Composite Restorations can be used in the repair of front teeth in the following situations Discoloured teeth, Decayed teeth, Chipped / fractured teeth, Spaces between teeth can be reduced / closed by composite fillings done on the teeth on each side of the gap. Visible surfaces of front teeth can be resurfaced with composite fillings. This will however be less durable than a Veneer.
Visit us at Belle 32 as soon as possible. If you are not in any pain then make an appointment for tooth reconstruction, but try and keep the tooth as clean as possible and avoid biting hard on that tooth. If you have pain, then you will need to get the root canal and capping done for that tooth as an emergency.
Several different options are available to change the shape of teeth, make teeth look longer, close spaces between teeth or repair chipped or cracked teeth. Among the options are bonding, crowns, veneers, and recontouring. • Dental bonding is a procedure in which a tooth-coloured resin material (a durable plastic material) is applied to the tooth surface and hardened with a special light, which ultimately "bonds" the material to the tooth. • Dental crowns are tooth-shaped "caps" that are placed over teeth. The crowns, when cemented into place, fully encase the entire visible portion of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line. • Veneers (also sometimes called porcelain veneers or dental porcelain laminates) are wafer-thin, custom-made shells of tooth-coloured materials that are designed to cover the front surface of teeth. These shells are bonded to the front of the teeth. • Recontouring or reshaping of the teeth (also called odontoplasty, enameloplasty, stripping, or slenderizing) is a procedure in which small amounts of tooth enamel are removed to change a tooth's length, shape or surface. Each of these options differ with regard to cost, durability, "chair time" necessary to complete the procedure, stain resistant qualities, and best cosmetic approach to resolving a specific problem. Talk to your dentist to see if one is right for you.
We understand that going to the dentist can make some people feel anxious. Painless dentistry is a means of ensuring your total experience in our office is as stress-free and pain-free as possible.
At Belle 32, we have specially trained staff who has had numerous such experiences to support and work with patients nervous about undergoing dental treatment. It is not unusual to be anxious about the dental treatment. There is absolutely no need to think that you are making your dentist’s job difficult. We, at Belle 32 make sure that you certainly have a comfortable, almost pain free and happy dental treatment experience. It is in fact a part of our job.
Yes. It is unfortunate to say that most of the dentists in their clinics fail to give time in explaining the reason about their discomfort to their patients in detail, the steps involved in treatment, the pros and cons of treatment and its alternatives, if any and lastly the pros and cons of getting and avoiding the treatment done. When you walk in at Belle 32, we assure you that the dental treatment experience is going to be different but happy. We shall be more than happy to provide help to you at every step. We strongly believe that it is the right of our patient to know every minute detail of their treatment.
At belle 32, we primarily focus on few behaviour management techniques that can be used to help you overcome your dental treatment fear. Only after the patient is comfortable with our team and the armamentarium, we start with the dental treatment.
At Belle 32, we have seen countless people with extremely poor oral health. You will certainly be nowhere near the worst that we have seen. We are trained to help you correct the bad condition of your mouth in a professional manner. If you feel that your mouth is in bad condition, then it is a great reason to visit us at Belle 32.
Several different options are available to change the shape of teeth, make teeth look longer, close spaces between teeth or repair chipped or cracked teeth. Among the options are bonding, crowns, veneers, and recontouring. • Dental bonding is a procedure in which a tooth-coloured resin material (a durable plastic material) is applied to the tooth surface and hardened with a special light, which ultimately "bonds" the material to the tooth. • Dental crowns are tooth-shaped "caps" that are placed over teeth. The crowns, when cemented into place, fully encase the entire visible portion of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line. • Veneers (also sometimes called porcelain veneers or dental porcelain laminates) are wafer-thin, custom-made shells of tooth-coloured materials that are designed to cover the front surface of teeth. These shells are bonded to the front of the teeth. • Recontouring or reshaping of the teeth (also called odontoplasty, enameloplasty, stripping, or slenderizing) is a procedure in which small amounts of tooth enamel are removed to change a tooth's length, shape or surface. Each of these options differ with regard to cost, durability, "chair time" necessary to complete the procedure, stain resistant qualities, and best cosmetic approach to resolving a specific problem. Talk to your dentist to see if one is right for you.
An attractive smile and improved self-image is just one of the benefits of orthodontic treatment. Alleviating and preventing physical health problems is just as important. Without treatment, orthodontic problems can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, bone destruction, chewing and digestive difficulties, speech impairments, tooth loss, and other dental injuries.
Orthodontics are not only for pretty teeth. A good healthy bite helps eliminate other health problems in later years. It also helps save teeth from excessive wear.
Orthodontic treatment can be started at any age, however the American Association of Orthodontists recommends all children get a check-up with an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7. Orthodontist can spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth while some baby teeth are still present. . Early treatment may mean that a patient can avoid surgery and more serious complications.
About 45% of orthodontic patients today are adults because they are correcting problems that were never treated when they were children, and can now experience the satisfaction of a perfect smile.
Yes. A tooth with a crown will move just like a tooth with a simple filling. When teeth are missing, orthodontic treatment will aid in the alignment of the remaining teeth.
TMJ Dysfunction is a condition of the jaw that occurs when the Temporo Mandibular Joint is misaligned or malfunctioning in a way that subjects the joint to excess pressure. TMJ can seriously affect how your mouth works and often includes side-effects such as blocked nasal passages, neck pain, headaches and difficulty chewing.
Costs vary depending on the type of treatment. It depends on various factors like patient’s age, duration of the treatment, type of the braces kit preferred, requirement of any other orthodontic appliance, need for orthodontic implants, etc.
Upon arriving, our friendly treatment coordinator will greet you and take you to our patient room. We will take the necessary photographs of the face and teeth and x-rays to allow our Orthodontist to make a proper diagnosis. Our team will discuss the necessary treatment needed, answer any questions you may have, inform you about the treatment fees and options available.
There are five essential questions that we will cover during the initial examination: • Is there an orthodontic problem, and if so, what is it? • What must be done to correct the problem? • Will any teeth need to be removed? • How long will the treatment take to complete? • How much will the treatment cost?
The time needed to undergo orthodontic treatment will vary for each patient, and always depends on how much your jaw needs to change and how far your teeth must move. We are committed to making your treatment as swift and effective as possible.
Appointments are scheduled according to each patient's needs or once a month. If there are specific situations that require more frequent monitoring, we will schedule appointments accordingly.
Most orthodontic patients experience some discomfort the first week after their braces are put on, and right after the braces are adjusted. You can use pain reliever as prescribed to ease the discomfort.
Yes. There is no reason to miss school because of an orthodontic appointment.
Yes. It is recommended, however, that patients protect their smiles by wearing a mouth guard when participating in any sporting activity. Mouth guards are inexpensive, comfortable, and come in an exciting variety of colours.
No. However, there may be an initial period of adjustment. In addition, brace covers can be provided to prevent discomfort.
Yes. Once treatment begins, we will explain the complete instructions and provide a comprehensive list of foods to avoid. Some of those foods include: ice, hard candy, corn chips, popcorn and nuts, raw fruits and vegetables (you can eat these if you cut them up) and all sticky foods (i.e. gum, caramel and taffy). You can avoid most emergency appointments to repair broken or damaged braces by carefully following our instructions.
Braces create small ledges, nooks and crannies for food deposits, which can lead to cavities and gum problems if you don’t do a good job of brushing and flossing. Brush and floss thoroughly, but gently, so you do not break or loosen your arch wires or brackets. Patients should brush their teeth at least four times each day - after each meal and before going to bed. We will show each patient how to floss their teeth with braces and may also provide a prescription for a special fluoride, if necessary.
Be sure to brush your teeth after every meal and before you go to bed with a fluoride toothpaste. We may prescribe a fluoride mouth rinse. Brush like this: • Starting by brushing the outside of each tooth at least 10 times. • Then brush where your gums and teeth meet, using a circular motion. • Brush the inside surface of each tooth at least 10 times. • Brush the chewing surfaces of your teeth last.
Your toothbrush can’t reach between your teeth, so you need to floss as well. A floss threader helps you floss with braces. Floss daily, like this: • Thread floss through the threader and slit up behind your archwire. • Pull the floss between two teeth and up under your gums. • Rinse with clean water.
A bite plate lifts your front teeth up, so the you do not knock off any of your lower brackets.
• Grab two pieces of floss. • Thread the two pieces of floss through the separator, and then wrap the floss strings around your first wrist. • Pull fingers away from each other so the separator is now almost flat and tension is created. • Gently work the separator between your teeth, like you do with floss. After you have pushed the separator between the teeth, pull the floss out, making sure that you can see half of the separator above the point of contact between the teeth. Sometimes it is necessary to hold your fingers over the separator when you pull the floss out.
No, you must wear your headgear at least 14 hours a day (unless otherwise instructed), but you can do that at night when you are at home. You do not need to wear your headgear to school, work or during active sports. Do not rough house with headgear on.
When you are wearing headgear you may feel some pressure when the strap is attached to the face bow, and relief of the pressure when the strap is detached. Your molars may ache and be slightly loosened as tooth movement occurs, and may have a little difficulty sleeping at first. You might also experience dry, chapped lips. If you feel extreme pressure or discomfort from your headgear, contact us at Belle 32.
Bring your headgear so we can check and adjust it.
A Rapid Maxillary Expander (RME) helps widen a patient’s upper jaw over time by widening the patient’s palate. A parent or patient adjusts the Expander daily according to our Orthodontist’s instructions. Once the palate has been widened enough, the expander is left in place for about four months without further adjustment.
When the Expander is first placed the patient may feel some discomfort and pressure. You may also: • Feel a tingling or itch under the expander. • Experience a tingling sensation across the bridge of the nose. • Feel pressure in the cheek area. • See a space appear between your upper two front teeth.
When the Expander is first placed the patient may feel some discomfort and pressure. You may also: • Feel a tingling or itch under the expander. • Experience a tingling sensation across the bridge of the nose. • Feel pressure in the cheek area. • See a space appear between your upper two front teeth.
A special key is used to activate the Rapid Maxillary Expander: • Loop the string on the key around your finger or wrist to prevent the possibility of it being swallowed. • Insert the key in its slot, it will not touch the roof of the mouth. • Push the key all the way from front to back. • Remove the key. • Turn as per orthodontist has instructed.
Brush as usual but also use a Proxabrush and regular toothbrush. Be certain to use water rinse to flush under the expander when you are done brushing.
A retainer is a device worn full or part-time after braces have been removed. The retainer is designed to prevent your teeth from drifting or moving while the bone around your teeth hardens and stabilizes. The longer you wear your retainer, the better your chances that your teeth will not relapse. Retainers provide assurance that your teeth will stay in perfect alignment while your jaw continues to grow or develop. We recommend that retainers are worn a lifetime.
During the first year and a half of retention, you will still visit our orthodontic offices periodically. After that period, you no longer need to visit our offices, but it is your responsibility to wear your retainer as we prescribe.
Protect your retainer — store it in its case given by us so that it does not get damaged. If your retainer does become damaged, call for a repair appointment.
Yes! In fact, it's even more important that patients receiving orthodontic treatment visit their dentist regularly. With braces, food may be caught in places that your toothbrush can't reach. This causes bacteria to build up and can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist will work closely with your orthodontist to make sure that your teeth stay clean and healthy while wearing braces.
Several different options are available to change the shape of teeth, make teeth look longer, close spaces between teeth or repair chipped or cracked teeth. Among the options are bonding, crowns, veneers, and recontouring. • Dental bonding is a procedure in which a tooth-coloured resin material (a durable plastic material) is applied to the tooth surface and hardened with a special light, which ultimately "bonds" the material to the tooth. • Dental crowns are tooth-shaped "caps" that are placed over teeth. The crowns, when cemented into place, fully encase the entire visible portion of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line. • Veneers (also sometimes called porcelain veneers or dental porcelain laminates) are wafer-thin, custom-made shells of tooth-coloured materials that are designed to cover the front surface of teeth. These shells are bonded to the front of the teeth. • Recontouring or reshaping of the teeth (also called odontoplasty, enameloplasty, stripping, or slenderizing) is a procedure in which small amounts of tooth enamel are removed to change a tooth's length, shape or surface. Each of these options differ with regard to cost, durability, "chair time" necessary to complete the procedure, stain resistant qualities, and best cosmetic approach to resolving a specific problem. Talk to your dentist to see if one is right for you.
Composite Restorations can be used in the repair of front teeth in the following situations Discoloured teeth, Decayed teeth, Chipped / fractured teeth, Spaces between teeth can be reduced / closed by composite fillings done on the teeth on each side of the gap. Visible surfaces of front teeth can be resurfaced with composite fillings. This will however be less durable than a Veneer.
We offer several options for bleaching teeth: In-office, Overnight or Daily. One session of in-office bleaching generally lasts one to two hours, and you can read or relax during the treatment. For overnight bleaching, we make an impression of your teeth and create a mouth guard that fits your bite. You fill the mouth guard each day with a small amount of bleaching gel and wear it overnight or for a few hours during the day. The overnight bleaching process takes approximately two weeks. Other over-the-counter daily bleaching products are available, too, but it is important to use any bleaching product only under the supervision of a dentist. To achieve the whitening results you want, the ADA recommends that you seek the professional advice of a dentist, including exam and diagnosis of tooth discoloration before you begin any bleaching program.
Although teeth whitening seems to be relatively new, whitening agents have been used in dentistry for many years. They are usually peroxide based, and can be very successful when used as directed. Some patients with nerve exposure notice sensitivity, but this can be managed by our dental team’s expertise. Don’t wait for that beautiful smile any longer.
Over the counter products are milder vs in office whitening products. It is always advisable to have an assessment done to see if you are a candidate for vital whitening procedures.
Modern teeth whitening methods like laser teeth whitening have minimal harmful effects. Nevertheless, one must remember that teeth whitening cannot be recommended for many people, especially for those who have sensitive teeth, problematic enamel, underdeveloped tooth asa well as for pregnant and nursing women.
On average, the effect can last for about a year or so, but after every following bleaching procedure the duration of the effects usually decreases.
No it is not a painful procedure. But however, it can sometimes lead to temporary sensitivity, which goes away in a few days.
Many people do not see a dentist on a regular basis. They only go when they have a problem. This is known as "crisis treatment" versus "preventive treatment." While these patients may feel they are saving money, it often ends up costing much more in dollars and time. This is because many dental problems do not have symptoms until they reach the advanced stages of the disease process. An example is tooth decay. It is typical to hear, "Nothing hurts... I don't have any problems."
Flossing reduces the number of bacteria in your mouth. There are millions of these microscopic creatures feeding on food particles left on your teeth. These bacteria live in plaque which can be removed by flossing. Brushing your teeth gets rid of some of the bacteria in your mouth. Flossing gets rid of the bacteria the toothbrush can't get to. That's the bacteria hiding in the tiny spaces between your teeth. If you do not floss, you allow plaque to remain between your teeth. Eventually it hardens into tartar. Plaque can be removed by brushing. Only the dentist can remove tartar. Ask your dentist to show you the proper way to floss. You will both notice the difference at the next cleaning appointment.
No. Regular check-ups at least twice a year is mandatory according to ADA. You may think that your teeth are fine, but a visit to the dentist to make sure of the state of your mouth is always advisable. It is always less painful and less costly to treat at an early stage. Always remember, prevention is better than cure. To visit a us at the time of any dental discomfort is what is rightly termed as Crisis Treatment. Preventive treatment must always be preferred over Crisis treatment.
It is not difficult to maintain good dental health, but you do have to be pro-active about it and assume that everything is fine. Simple things like brushing twice a day, flossing teeth after every meal, seeing dentist regularly and having good balanced diet helps to keep good dental health.
Visiting our clinic for regular check-ups and professional teeth cleaning is absolutely crucial in making sure that you have good oral health. It helps to prevent cavities, root canals, gum disease, surgery, oral cancer and other dental conditions. This is termed as Preventive Treatment.
No. If you experience a dental problem, leaving it alone and taking pain killers will not suffice. You should visit us at Belle 32 and get to the bottom of the problem. Leaving it untreated will only worsen the problem. You may also be forced to undergo much more lengthy, painful and expensive treatment than you would have if you had visited us at Belle 32.
The ideal time for your child to meet the dentist is six months after their first (primary) teeth erupt. This gives your dentist a perfect opportunity to carefully examine the development of their mouth and catch problems such as baby bottle tooth decay, teething irritations and prolonged thumb-sucking early.
According to your dentist and the American Dental Association, you should brush your teeth at least two times a day. Brushing keeps your teeth, gums, and mouth clean and healthy by removing bacteria-causing plaque. It is also recommended that you use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste that contains fluoride when you brush your teeth. You should spend at least a minute on the top teeth and a minute on the bottom teeth, and remember to brush your tongue; it will help keep your breath smelling fresh!
This is a good question, which we hear daily. The brand of the toothbrush is not nearly as critical as the type of bristle, the size and shape of the head and how frequently you replace your brush. We recommend a soft bristled brush with a small head. The soft bristles are most important for the health of your gums. A small head allows you to get around each tooth more completely and is less likely to injure your gums. Daily frequency of brushing and replacement with a new brush are much more important issues than the brand you choose. We recommend replacing your brush at least once a month. Keeping in mind your busy schedule, we recommend you brushing twice a day at a bare minimum.
Your toothbrush will eventually wear out, especially if you are brushing your teeth twice a day for two to three minutes each time. Your dentist recommends that adults and children change their toothbrush every three months. If you are using an electric toothbrush, be sure to read the directions because you may not need to change toothbrush heads as frequently. Patients with gum disease are encouraged to change their toothbrush every four to six weeks to keep any bacteria from spreading. After brushing, rinse your toothbrush with hot water to kill germs and keep the bristles clean. If you've been sick, be sure to change your toothbrush as soon as possible.
Dental powder removes plaque and debris as they have more amount of abrasives. Use of more abrasives is injurious as it results in sensitivity and gum problems. Secondly, people use powder with their finger which do not clean the interdental area and lead to periodontal problems and proximal caries.
Sealants are a thin, plastic coating that is painted on the chewing surfaces of teeth -- usually the back teeth (the premolars, and molars) -- to prevent tooth decay. The painted on liquid sealant quickly bonds into the depressions and groves of the teeth, forming a protective shield over the enamel of each tooth. Typically, children should get sealants on their permanent molars and premolars as soon as these teeth come in. In this way, the dental sealants can protect the teeth through the cavity-prone years of ages 6 to 14. However, adults without decay or fillings in their molars can also benefit from sealants. Sealants can protect the teeth from decay for many years, but they need to be checked for chipping or wear at regular dental check-ups.
First, when purchasing a toothpaste for you or your child, select one that contains fluoride. Fluoride-containing toothpastes have been shown to prevent cavities. However, one word of caution : Use only a very small amount for children under age 6 (the size of one green pea). This is because young children swallow toothpaste, and swallowing too much fluoride can lead to tooth discoloration in permanent teeth. It is also wise to select a product approved by the Indian Dental Association. The IDA's Seal of Acceptance means that the product has met IDA criteria for safety and effectiveness and that packaging and advertising claims are scientifically supported. Some manufacturers choose not to seek the IDA's Seal of Acceptance. Although these products may be safe and effective, these products' performance have not been evaluated or endorsed by the IDA. Next, when considering other properties of toothpaste -- such as whitening toothpastes, tartar-control, gum care, desensitizing, etc. -- the best advice for selecting among these products may be to simply ask your dental hygienist or dentist what the greatest concerns are for your mouth at this time. After consulting with your dentist or hygienist about your oral health's greatest needs, look for products within that category (for example, within the tartar control brands or within the desensitizing toothpaste brands). Finally, some degree of personal preference comes into play. Choose the toothpaste that tastes and feels best. Gel or paste, wintergreen or spearmint all work alike. If you find that certain ingredients are irritating to your teeth, cheeks or lips, or if your teeth have become more sensitive, or if your mouth is irritated after brushing, try changing toothpastes. If the problem continues, do visit us at Belle 32.
An adult should use a fluoridated toothpaste that is the size of a small green pea; unlike the large, swooping ribbon of paste that is shown on commercials. Most toothpastes are abrasive and too much may cause tooth sensitivity.
According to American Dental Association, A dental implant is a cylindrical and/or tapered post, usually made of titanium that serves as a substitute for the tooth root. Dental implants are often the best treatment for missing teeth when you use an experienced implant dentist. Answer 3 easy questions to know if dental implants are right for you. • Do you want the most natural-looking smile? A dental implant feels, fits and functions like a natural tooth. Other options such as dentures may interfere with your normal everyday eating, smiling, and speaking. An experienced, implant dentist can describe the difference. Dental implants look so good because they are customized for your mouth. • Do you want an easy, hassle-free smile? Dental implants allow you to bite naturally, eat virtually anything, and brush normally. Other options can feel uncomfortable when eating, limit food choices, and need to be removed for cleaning. A dentist with experience in tooth replacement can describe how easy dental implants are compared to dentures. • Do you want a smile that won’t embarrass you? Dental implants are fixed in place, so they won't move, click or shift. Other options may slip when eating, talking or even laughing. That can be embarrassing. Dental implants from an implant dentist let you relax and enjoy visiting with friends and family. If you answered “Yes” to 1 or more, Congratulations! Dental implants are the right choice for you. When a damaged or decayed tooth is removed, both the visible part of the tooth, called the crown, and the root are lost. A dental implant is placed in the jawbone so that it can fuse with your natural bone and become a strong and sturdy foundation for replacement teeth. Implants can be used to replace an individual tooth or for an implant-supported bridge or denture containing multiple teeth. Dental implants are the closest you can get to healthy, natural teeth. They will allow you to confidently eat, smile, laugh, talk, play and enjoy all of your regular activities of everyday life without worrying about your teeth. Learn if dental implants your best choice.
Chances are, you are a candidate for implants. To find out for sure, however, you will need to make a consultation appointment so your teeth and mouth can be examined and your condition evaluated. As part of the evaluation process, different types of x-rays will be require in order to ascertain bone quality and quantity. A CT scan may also be required.
Dental implants are the most natural-looking and natural-feeling replacement for missing teeth. Unlike many other tooth replacement options, dental implants do not slip or click when talking, laughing or eating, making for greater confidence in social situations. Dental implants are also considered a healthy option because they help to maintain the jawbone, keeping the facial structure intact.
There are many advantages to dental implants, including: • Improved appearance - Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth. And because they are designed to fuse with bone, they become permanent. • Improved speech - With poor-fitting dentures, the teeth can slip within the mouth causing you to mumble or slur your words. Dental implants allow you to speak without the worry that teeth might slip. • Improved comfort - Because they become part of you, implants eliminate the discomfort of removable dentures. • Easier eating - Sliding dentures can make chewing difficult. Dental implants function like your own teeth, allowing you to eat your favourite foods with confidence and without pain. • Improved self-esteem - Dental implants can give you back your smile and help you feel better about yourself. • Improved oral health - Dental implants don't require reducing other teeth, as a tooth-supported bridge does. Because nearby teeth are not altered to support the implant, more of your own teeth are left intact, improving long-term oral health. Individual implants also allow easier access between teeth, improving oral hygiene. • Durability - Implants are very durable and will last many years. With good care, many implants last a lifetime. • Convenience - Removable dentures are just that; removable. Dental implants eliminate the embarrassing inconvenience of removing dentures, as well as the need for messy adhesives to keep them in place.
Teeth restored with dental implants look, feel and function just like natural teeth. You brush, floss and visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings, same as you would to care for a natural tooth. After meeting with a dental implant dentist to develop your treatment plan, the placement of a dental implant usually involves several steps: • The dental implant, usually a cylindrical and/or tapered post made of titanium, is placed surgically into the jawbone. • As you heal, your implant will osseointegrate, or fuse with, your natural jawbone, with the two growing together to form a strong and long-lasting foundation for your replacement teeth. This healing process can take weeks to months while you proceed with your everyday life in between appointments. • Once the implant bonds with the jawbone, a small connector – called an abutment – is placed on top of the dental implant to connect the implant to the replacement tooth or teeth. • An individual tooth, an implant-supported bridge or dentures containing multiple teeth are then attached to the abutment.
Success rates of dental implants vary, depending on where in the jaw the implants are placed but, in general, dental implants have a success rate of up to 98%. With proper care (see below), implants can last a lifetime.
Conventional dentures can often fit poorly. This is because once natural teeth are gone, the jawbone begins to shrink and change in shape. This can result in discomfort, pain, impaired chewing and difficulty in speaking. Dental implants overcome these challenges by permanently securing your dentures in place so they perform exactly like your real teeth. With implants in place, your jawbone is less susceptible to change because the implants make it seem like your real teeth are still there.
At Belle 32, we have various systems to provide local anaesthesia including local anaesthetic gels of different flavours, flavoured local anaesthetic spray, local anaesthetic injection. We believe in pre-operative prescriptions to avoid any kind of dental discomfort. We also practice several behaviour management techniques to distract our patients while giving anaesthesia.
Avoid rinsing or spitting forcefully for 24 hours after the extraction to avoid dislodging the clot that forms in the socket. After 24 hours, rinse with your mouth with a solution made of 1/2 teaspoon salt and 8 ounces of warm water. Do not drink from a straw for the first 24 hours.
• Applesauce. The smooth, pureed texture of applesauce makes it a great soft food to eat after wisdom teeth removal. ... • Vanilla Ice Cream. After surgery, it is okay to spoil yourself a bit! ... • Soup. ... • Jell-O or Pudding. ... • Mashed Potatoes. ... • Yogurt. ... • Smoothies or Milkshakes. ... • Instant Oatmeal. • Khichdi
A dental surgeon can remove wisdom teeth in few minutes with recent techniques. Healing, however, takes at least two weeks if all goes well. Patient can go back to work the next day.
Keep the mouth clean. No vigorous rinsing should be performed until the day following surgery. You can brush your teeth the night of surgery, but rinse gently. The day after surgery you should begin rinsing at least 5-6 times a day, especially after eating, with a cup of warm water mixed with a teaspoon of salt.
After tooth removal if tooth pain becomes intense and doesn't go away after a few days, it may be a symptom of a condition called dry socket, or alveolar osteitis. Only a very small percentage of about 2% to 5% of people develop dry socket after a tooth extraction. In those who have it, though, dry socket can be uncomfortable. Fortunately, it's easily treatable. The socket is the hole in the bone where the tooth has been removed. After a tooth is pulled, a blood clot forms in the socket to protect the bone and nerves underneath. Sometimes that clot can become dislodged or dissolve a couple of days after the extraction. That leaves the bone and nerve exposed to air, food, fluid, and anything else that enters the mouth. This can lead to infection and severe pain that can last for 5 or 6 days. Some people may be more likely to get dry socket after having a tooth pulled. That includes people who: • smoke • have poor oral hygiene • have wisdom teeth pulled • have greater-than-usual trauma during the tooth extraction surgery • use birth control pills • have a history of dry socket after having teeth pulled Rinsing and spitting a lot or drinking through a straw after having a tooth extracted also can raise your risk of getting dry socket. If you look into the site where the tooth was pulled, you'll probably see a dry-looking opening. Instead of a dark blood clot, there will just be whitish bone. The pain typically starts about 2 days after the tooth was pulled. Over time it becomes more severe and can radiate to your ear. Other symptoms of dry socket include bad breath and an unpleasant smell and taste in your mouth. What you can do before surgery? You can take these steps to help prevent dry socket: • Seek a dentist or oral surgeon with experience in tooth extractions. • If applicable, try to stop smoking before your extraction because smoking and using other tobacco products increase your risk of dry socket. Consider talking to your doctor or dentist about a program to help you quit permanently. • Talk to your dentist or oral surgeon about any prescription or over-the-counter medications or supplements you're taking, as they may interfere with blood clotting. What your dentist or oral surgeon may do? Your dentist or oral surgeon will take a number of steps to ensure proper healing of the socket and to prevent dry socket. These steps may include recommending one or more of these medications, which may help prevent dry socket: • Antibacterial mouthwashes or gels immediately before and after surgery • Oral antibiotics, particularly if you have a compromised immune system • Antiseptic solutions applied to the wound • Medicated dressings applied after surgery What you can do after surgery? You'll receive instructions about what to expect during the healing process after a tooth extraction and how to care for the wound. Proper at-home care after a tooth extraction helps promote healing and prevent damage to the wound. These instructions will likely address the following issues, which can help prevent dry socket: • Activity. After your surgery, plan to rest for the remainder of the day. Follow your dentist's or oral surgeon's recommendations about when to resume normal activities and how long to avoid rigorous exercise and sports that might result in dislodging the blood clot in the socket. • Pain management. Put cold packs on the outside of your face on the first day after extraction and warm packs after that, to help decrease pain and swelling. Follow your dentist's or oral surgeon's instructions on applying cold or heat to your face. Take pain medications as prescribed. • Beverages. Drink lots of water after the surgery. Avoid alcoholic, caffeinated, carbonated or hot beverages for as long as your dentist or oral surgeon recommends. Don't drink with a straw for at least a week because the sucking action may dislodge the blood clot in the socket. • Food. Eat only soft foods, such as yogurt or applesauce, for the first day. Be careful with hot and cold liquids or biting your cheek until the anesthesia wears off. Start eating semisoft foods when you can tolerate them. Avoid chewing on the surgery side of your mouth. • Cleaning your mouth. After surgery, you may gently rinse your mouth and brush your teeth, but avoid the extraction site for the first 24 hours. After the first 24 hours, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt several times a day for a week after your surgery. Mix 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 milliliters) of table salt in 8 ounces (237 milliliters) of water. Follow the instructions of your dentist or oral surgeon. • Tobacco use. If you smoke or use tobacco, don't do so for at least 48 hours after surgery and as long as you can after that. Any use of tobacco products after oral surgery can delay healing and increase the risk of complications.
