Next Smile

Root canal  A root canal is a medical procedure done when a tooth root has been damaged by trauma or decay. The dentist numbs the tooth and creates a crown opening to access the pulp layer. The infection is cleaned out, and any unhealthy pulp is removed to prepare the tooth for the filler.  Permanent fillers are placed in the canals to prevent further disease or contamination.  Benefits of a root canal: One doesn't lose their natural tooth The patient maintains their original tooth. The patient may require a crown to fix significant decay. However, one will still have part of the original crown structure to attach to. It's an affordable procedure Compared to dental implants, a root canal is way cheaper. Dental insurance also often cover root canals and crown placement. The treatment time is less A root canal takes less time than a dental implant. All a patient needs is one or two appointments with the dentist and then wait a short period to get a permanent crown.  Co...

  Tooth decay is the teeth' continuous deterioration that leads to cavities and tooth loss. It is caused by built-up dental plaque. Plaque bacteria convert glucose into acid, resulting in teeth rot if unchecked.  Tooth decay occurs in stages: Stage 1: Initial demineralisation of enamel The outer layer of the teeth is the enamel. When the tooth gets exposed to bacterial acids and plaque, the enamel coating becomes weak. A white spot on a tooth is the first visible sign that tooth decay has begun. Stage 2: Enamel decay  The enamel deteriorates further and is symbolised by a white spot on the teeth turning dark brown. The weakened enamel cause formation of holes in the teeth. The holes are known as activities. They can be repaired by filling.  Stage 3: Decay of dentin Under the enamel is a tissue called dentin. Dentin is softer than enamel. It is more susceptible to deterioration when exposed to acids. Once the acids reach it, the decay accelerates. Dentin is comprised ...

   1.Firm and pink gums Healthy gums are an indicator that your teeth are healthy too. Pay attention to your gums. The gums should be pink. Red or white and swollen gums are signs that all is not well with your oral health. Wash your hands and glide a finger along your gums. Evaluate if your gums are firm and painless. If there is pain, consult your dentist immediately. The tissues in your mouth, including your tongue, should also be pink. Always remember to brush your tongue and remove any plaque on it. 2.Neutral-smelling breath Monitor your breath. A healthy mouth has a neutral smell. Mouths that emit foul odours indicate a sign of untreated tooth decay. If you notice that you are removing many smelly food particles, you could be in an early stage of gum disease. 3.No blood when brushing or flossing Healthy teeth and gums shouldn't bleed regularly. If you notice that you bleed a lot and often brush your teeth, do not ignore it. Consult your dentist. Also, monitor the pattern...

  After scheduling surgery, the dentist will give you some pre-surgery care instructions that you should follow. Apart from the dentist's rules, here are some tips on preparing for your dental surgery: 1.   Ask questions Individuals are afraid to ask the dentist questions about their surgery and treatment. Be unique and ask questions. Make sure you leave the dentist office with clarity. If the dentist gives you written instructions, read through them and ask questions for clarity. Ask questions like what you should eat before and after the surgery? When can you go back to work? Ensure you clarify everything. 2.   Ride home The dentist will use sedation during surgery. Don't drive yourself home after the procedure. Driving under the influence of sedatives can be dangerous. It is not also ideal for sharing a ride or using public transport. Therefore secure a ride with a friend or family member. Ask someone close to you to come and pick you up after the procedure. 3.   ...

  Dental implants and bridges differ in various ways, including: 1. Type of treatment An implant consists of a titanium post surgically placed in the jawbone to support a crown that resembles the natural tooth. The implant takes on the task of the natural tooth root. A dental bridge fills the opening where a tooth once was. It entails replacing a missing tooth with a false one bonded to the natural teeth on either side of the space. An implant can support a bridge to get an implant-supported bridge. 2. Functionality A dental implant takes on the function of the natural teeth, including stimulating the jawbone. However, a dental bridge doesn't have an implant; hence, it doesn't take on the full functionality of the tooth. 3. Surrounding teeth Dental bridges receive their support from the adjoining teeth. This can often lead to damage to the teeth. While fitting the bridge, the dentist will cut the side of the adjacent natural teeth. Implants are independent and don't require...

  There is no upper age limit. Older adults can get their implants as long as they are healthy, and the dentist has ensured that they are suitable for the procedure. To qualify for the procedure, a person needs to have good oral and overall health. People who smoke might not be eligible to have dental implants. Age is also not a key factor to having dental implant success either. The success rate is the same for an older patient with sufficient bone density as a younger patient. Dental implants have been successful in patients in their 80s and 90s. Most people over the age of 65 have missing teeth, making them an appropriate candidate for dental implants. However, dental implants have a lower age limit. The procedure requires a fully developed jaw. Therefore, an individual must be at least 18 years old to have a dental implant. However, 18 years is not a set number because everyone is different. Some people's jaws develop before the age of 18, while others are still growing even af...