Whether you are in need of a routine cleaning or a more advanced procedure such as dental implant surgery, you will need to find a dentist who you can trust with your smile. There are many different types of dentists who are out there practicing today, so it’s helpful to first sit down and think about the criteria for choosing a dental healthcare professional that will be just right for you. One of the first things to think about is what type of dentistry you are interested in. Some dentists specialize in cosmetic procedures, meaning that they can help with hygiene issues but will also be concerned with the aesthetics of your smile.

Some of the typical cosmetic dentistry treatments offered by this type of dentist include dental implants, porcelain veneers, orthodontic treatments, tooth whitening, bonding, and shaping of teeth. Other dentists work as part of a larger healthcare organization, and will focus on hygiene and oral health issues, such as filling cavities, root canals, restorative gum work, and routine cleanings. To get started with finding out more about a dentist’s services, you can look at their websites or call the office for a list. This will give you some idea of what is offered by each healthcare professional.

Another factor to take into consideration is insurance and fees. If you have a healthcare plan that includes a dental policy, you will need to choose a dentist that accepts this form of plan. Many people do not have any dental insurance, and they will need to find a professional who works for affordable fees. Some types of cosmetic dentistry are not covered under regular insurance plans. When looking at any list of services, it’s also a good idea to ask for the corresponding fees associated with each procedure. Some dentists will allow you to pay on an installment plan or work out other payment alternatives.

Experience is one of the most important facets of choosing any new dentist, as you want to go to an office where you feel that you are in safe hands. Other factors to take a look at include the types of equipment in the office. It’s best to go to a dental professional who stays up to date with the latest procedures and forms of technology, for the safest, fastest results. Some dentists will also have onsite X-ray facilities and laboratories for advanced dental work, which is also something to think about. Read the rest of this entry »

When we talk about the word ‘contagious’, most people tend to think about the ‘flu. Seldom do we realise that tooth decay and gum disease can bring on a host of oral health problems not only for us but for those in the family as well.

The Dirty Truth About Tooth Decay

To put it simply, if bacteria is present in the mouth, it will eat away at the teeth. If left untreated this could result in a cavity and cause pain, infection and even loss of a tooth. Normally it is the combination of food and bacteria that causes decay as plaque forms on the gums and the teeth. When you eat or drink something sweet, the bacteria feed off these sugars and create acids. Over time your tooth enamel breaks down and this is the start of tooth decay and poor oral health.

Normally as parents we are considered the first line of defence when it comes to our children. However, unknowingly we can actually pass along tooth decay. By drinking from the same cup or brushing with the same toothbrush, bacteria can transfer from one person to another. Often it is mum’s bacteria that are passed to the child and hence if mum has lots of fillings we need to be very vigilant as this can happen with the child.

Tooth decay in children causes pain and fever, it can also disrupt school and education. Speech and eating habits are also affected along with mum and dads sleep. Regular examinations can help prevent all of this and often remove the need for expensive dental treatment.

The Dangers of Gum Disease

Periodontal disease which is commonly called gum disease happens when the bone and the tissues that support the teeth get infected. When there is a build up of plaque, the bacteria contained inside it produce toxins that damage and irritate the gums. Apart from flossing and brushing every day, it is important to visit your dentist for regular teeth cleaning sessions above and below the gum margins. If your gums bleed, look discolored, are red or swollen or if you suffer from bad breath, then these are warning signs that you may have gum disease. Unfortunately untreated gum disease is the most common reason adults lose teeth and end up with dentures or false teeth. Read the rest of this entry »