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Oral cancer screening is an examination that a doctor or dentist performs to detect cancer signs. Precancerous conditions can also be detected through the screening. When mouth cancer is identified early, there is a high chance of curing it.

During routine visits, most dentists will examine our mouth for cancer. Some may use other tests to identify areas with abnormal cells inside your mouth.

Why Oral Cancer Screening is Done

The benefit associated with oral cancer screening is the detection of cancer in its early stages. The following factors will increase your risk of developing oral cancer:

• Tobacco use: This includes cigarettes, pipes, cigars, snuff, and chewing tobacco.
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Previous diagnosis of oral cancer
• History of sun exposure(significant): This increases lip cancer risk

Over the last years, there has been a rise in throat and mouth cancer patients. Many of these cases are closely-associated with Human Papillomavirus (HPV)- a sexually transmitted infection.

Preparing for the Screening

Since screening for oral cancer is done during routine appointments at the dentist’s, there is no need for special preparation.

What to Expect

During the exam, the dentist will check for mouth sores and white or red patches inside your mouth. The dentist, wearing gloves, will then feel your mouth tissues to see if there are any lumps or any other abnormalities. Your dentist in South Houston may also look out for any lumps in your throat and neck.

Additional Tests

Besides the routine exam, there are special tests used by some dentists for screening. They may involve:

Screening dye: The dentist may ask you to use a blue dye in rinsing your mouth before an examination. Abnormal mouth cells take the color of the dye and are distinguished from the others.

Screening light: During the exam, the dentist shines light in your mouth. Upon being hit by the light, the healthy tissue appears dark, making the abnormal one appear white.

Areas to Examine

For your dentist to ascertain that you are entirely free of oral cancer, these are the parts that should be examined:

Face: The dentist will look for masses, asymmetry, ulceration, or discoloration. An evaluation of pigmented, ulcerated, raised, or firm skin regions are done. Your facial bones, soft tissue, and skeleton will be palpated.

Eyes: It is essential to check for extraocular movements in every direction. This tests for the involvement of the cranial nerve. Swellings of the eyes can be an indication of a tumor in its late stages.

Nose and Ears: Examination of your nasal cavity should include palpating the paranasal region and the external nose. During the exam, the patient’s hearing is tested by talking to them and assessing their acoustic nerve’s integrity. An inspection of the auricle is done, noting any erythematous, ulcerous, or pigmented lesions.

Neck: For this examination to take place, the patient has to be level with the dentist’s eye. Here is what is done:

• The neck is palpated, comparing its sides for lymph node enlargement signs.
• The jugular vein is examined
• Palpating the supraclavicular spaces
• Examining the inferior and anterior parotid groups

The Thyroid: Because it isn’t easy to feel the thyroid gland, it is first inspected and then palpated. Any tenderness should be recorded.

Lips: Our dentist should evaluate your lips with your mouth, both closed and open. This way, it is easy to note abnormalities in contour, color, texture, or symmetry. Your labial mucosa should have color uniformity. It also has to be smooth. Look out for white or red discolorations and texture variations on the labial mucosa.

Tongue: Your dentist may ask you to stick out your tongue then move it sideways. It should be able to do this with ease, devoid of asymmetry. He or she may note any swelling, masses, or ulceration.

Mouth floor: With your tongue elevated, inspect this region. Pay close attention to the frenulum and submandibular glands.

Limitations of Oral Cancer Screening

Need for additional tests: Oral exams during those regular visits to the dentist may not be able to tell apart cancerous sores and noncancerous ones.

Detection Issues: Detecting regions with abnormal cells just by observing can prove to be complicated. Because of this, some cancers can go unnoticed.

If you are found to exhibit oral cancer signs, the dentist may recommend two things:

• Follow-up visits to check the state of the abnormal area.
• Biopsy procedure

At Espili Dental, we care about your oral health. Our extensive range of treatment options ensures you get high-quality treatment before your problem advances. Are you looking for a dentist near you? Our dentist in Houston, TX, can’t wait to meet you. Book an appointment with us today.

Botox injections are quite popular for treating cosmetic needs but can also be an alternative for treating some orofacial conditions. Some benefits when using Botox in dentistry have been observed as have the risks associated with these treatments. Therefore, before deciding to embark on Botox treatment all matters must be discussed with the patient in advance.

What is Botox?

Botox is a botulinum toxin drug obtained from Clostridium botulinum that is a bacterium. It may sound familiar because it is the same causing a rare but concerning foodborne illness known as botulism. The therapeutic neurotoxin which is active is harvested, separated, and purified in a laboratory for making it effective and safe for treatment.

The Functioning of Botox

Botox functions by attaching itself to the nerve endings controlling a muscle after a few hours of being injected into the muscle. Over the next few days, the toxins function by blocking the transmission of nerve signals causing muscle contractions. It only affects the nerves with connections to motor neurons ignoring the nerves connected to sensory neurons which are the receptors needed to feel pain, temperature, and touch according to experts. The blocking of the signals continues for approximately 3 to 4 months and the patient administered the treatment will begin experiencing the signs and symptoms as Botox begins to wear off. In such cases, another dose of Botox can be administered if desired by the patient.

The Use of Botox in Dentistry

The usage of Botox in dentistry has become popular and more studies are being conducted to investigate better uses for orofacial requirements. The dentist in Houston, TX, is offering Botox for treating extracapsular myogenic TMJ disorders, trismus along with the headaches associated with this condition.

Botox cannot be used as a standalone procedure in a dental office and therefore patients searching for a dentist near me to get Botox treatments must understand it can only be used as part of an entire treatment plant within a dental scope of practice. The dental professional offering the treatment must have received the education necessary along with the training before administering Botox. The dentist in South Houston representing Espili Dental advises that the laws governing the use of Botox are different in every state making it necessary for every patient to inquire with the licensing board of the state about the laws and regulations governing how this drug can be used in a dental office.

The Importance of Botox in Dentistry

The Dentist in South Houston, TX, notes that Botox is an alternative when other treatments have not been successful. It is gaining popularity in dentistry because it is helping dentists to treat cosmetic and physical conditions. However, discussing the treatment with the patient is essential because numerous patients don’t have enough information about how Botox can alleviate certain dental concerns.

Is Botox Suitable for Dental Offices?

Dentist South Houston states many healthcare providers who are not trained in the maxillofacial area are offering Botox treatments. Dentists, on the other hand, are fully equipped to handle procedures riskier than Botox. They have acquired the training and education needed for performing these procedures safely and effectively to patients who may be affected by various conditions.

Why Discussions Must Be Held by Dentists with the Patient?

Keeping the patient in the dark about any treatment is never a good option for any medical practitioner. Patients must be provided with information about the procedure being recommended as well as the product. The dentist in Houston, TX, discusses the risks, the number of appointments, cost, benefits, and the need to maintain Botox with repeated visits to the dental office. Dentists can also inform their patients that Botox delivers instant results with minimum or no downtime. The patient must be informed that repeat injections will be necessary every quarterly along with the costs associated with the treatment. Dentists must be open to discussing alternative treatments with patients who may find Botox unsuitable for themselves because of financial implications.

Botox can be an added benefit for dentists to meet the needs of patients and can be used to treat different types of medical as well as cosmetic concerns. Additional research is necessary for the dental use of Botox for educating patients and dental professionals. However, it must be confirmed that Botox treatments offered by dentists who are qualified in the maxillofacial area are a better option than having the treatment from a healthcare provider.

Have you researched for the dentist near me to understand whether you should have your wisdom teeth extracted and the time you will need to recover from the procedure? You may have received information that wisdom teeth extractions are quite common and therefore is just a simple matter. However you must have all the information necessary before you undergo the procedure and understand what you can expect from Wisdom teeth extractions.

As you are unaware of the information about wisdom teeth extractions let us give you information of why wisdom teeth extractions are recommended and the time it will take to fully recover from the procedure. It should help you to prepare yourself before you visit the dentist South Houston for wisdom teeth removal.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are your back molars and have acquired the name “wisdom” because they are the last teeth to erupt in your mouth. They erupt in the top and bottom jaw on either side between the ages of 17 to 21. It is common for many people not to have sufficient space in their jaws to facilitate wisdom teeth without causing a shift in their other teeth. The shifting can lead to many problems.

If your dentist has recommended surgery to remove them you may have problems in your mouth because of the wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth removal is quite common and depending upon your specific case the recovery time would be about a week. However the recovery may take longer if your wisdom teeth are impacted indicating they haven’t emerged from below the gum line and are therefore not visible.

Wisdom Teeth Extraction Surgery

The surgery for wisdom teeth extraction is performed in an outpatient setting which means you can arrive and leave the clinic on the same day of the surgery. If you are administered local or sedation dentistry you will wake up in the dentists chair. However if general anesthesia is administered you will take longer to wake up and will be shifted to the recovery room. Inquire with your dentist about the type of sedation you can expect.

During the extraction the dentist will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the tooth and bone. Any bone blocking access to the tooth root will be removed before dividing the tooth into smaller pieces making it easier for removal. The site of the surgery will be cleaned off any debris and a gauze placed over the extraction site to control bleeding and help the formation of a blood clot.

As you wake up you will slowly regain feeling in your mouth from the surgery. You may experience some pain and swelling which is quite normal. On your first day of the recovery you may notice some blood in your mouth but can begin using an ice pack on your face whenever you feel like it. The dentist in South Houston, TX, will provide you instructions on how and when to take medications which could be prescription painkillers or over-the-counter pain medications.

You will be able to go home once you wake up fully and feel ready. It would be a good idea to have someone drive you home from the dentist’s office especially if you have been administered general anesthesia because you wouldn’t be in a position to drive for an extended period. You can have soft foods after the surgery but must avoid caffeine, alcohol, and smoking. Using a straw will also be prohibited as it can lead to complications.

Long-Term Recovery from Wisdom Teeth Extractions

Three to 4 days are all that is required for you to recover from the surgery like most people. However if your wisdom teeth were impacted you may require a week for the recovery.

The wound of the extraction site will not heal for months and the potential for infections remain even weeks after the surgery. Therefore you must take care of yourself and watch out for any signs of trouble. The day after the surgery you can resume normal activities but must avoid any activity that can dislodge the stitches or the blood clot over the wound.

Home Care after the Surgery

You must do a good job caring for your mouth when you get home to avoid complications and infections. Your dentist would have provided you instructions on how to clean and protect your mouth after the procedure. This may be the only time your dentist advises you not to brush or floss for an entire day.

Wisdom teeth extractions are quite common to fix or prevent problems with your last set of molars. You can begin eating soft foods and return to regular activities the day after the surgery.

Sealants are thin and transparent plastic coatings which when painted on the chewing surfaces of the molars (back teeth) prevent cavities for up to 10 years. School going children between the ages of 6 to 11 without sealants have cavities on their first molars than the children with sealants.

The number of children with sealants in their mouths as increased significantly in higher-income households. Unfortunately, children from low-income households without sealants are twice as likely to have cavities that are not treated as in higher-income households. Cavities that are not treated can cause infections, pain, problems when eating, speaking, and learning. Many states are spending millions helping children prevent cavities by introducing or expanding programs to offer dental sealants in school.

Why Sealants Must Be Used?

Preventing cavities is easy with the help of sealants that are painless and can be applied in the mouths of children in a simple procedure. Children must have sealants applied on their back molars where almost 90 percent cavities occur. After application, the sealants can protect against 80 percent cavities for a couple of years and continue the protection against 50 percent cavities for another four years.

Sealants can eliminate the requirement of expensive and invasive treatments including fillings and dental crowns. Applying dental sealants in schools for approximately 7 million children from lower-income households can save up to $ 300 million in costs for dental treatments.

When Should Sealants the Applied?

If your child is of school-going age and in the age bracket of 6 to 11 you should consider taking him or her to the dentist in Houston, TX, to have the sealants applied. It is important for you only to consider taking your child to an experienced dentist who has the patience to work with children.

The procedure for applying the sealants despite being simple and painless requires the child to sit with an open mouth on the dentists’ chair until the tooth is cleaned and dried. Any compromise in this process can render the sealant a failure. This is the most difficult part of this procedure especially for dentists that are not accustomed to working with children.

Applying the Sealants

Applying the sealants is quite easy and painless as described earlier. If you research for a dentist near me for the application he or she will begin the procedure by cleaning your child’s teeth and removing any decay which may have formed. The tooth will be rinsed and dried after the cleaning process by placing cotton or swab in the area.

After a few minutes, an etching solution will be applied to the tooth receiving the sealant. The etching solution assists the sealing material to adhere to the tooth. The tooth will again be rinsed and dried thoroughly to prepare it for the sealant. This is the part where the experience of the dentist plays a huge role. The tooth must be thoroughly dried before applying the sealing material.

After a few minutes the dentist in South Houston, TX, will apply the dental sealant and cure it with a special light to harden it quickly. The procedure ends with the hardening and your child will be free to walk away from the dentists’ office doing everything he or she wants to do.

Are Sealants Expensive?

Dental sealants are affordable and cost between $ 30-$ 60 per tooth. Dental insurance companies are providing coverage for dental sealants for children and therefore you must have sealants applied on your child’s teeth without fail. Sealants can also be applied to adults but you may have to pay a higher price for the application and dental insurance companies will not reimburse the costs to you.

What Happens When You Ignore Sealants?

You can ignore sealants just as millions of other people are doing in the country and are leaving their children exposed to dental problems such as cavities and tooth decay. You may believe brushing and flossing are sufficient to keep such problems away from their mouths. However, cavity-causing bacteria and food particles find hiding places in the crevices of the molars to play havoc with the tooth and create major dental problems. The problems will heap upon you and your child the need to become involved in extensive and invasive dental work spending a significant sum of money. Ignoring sealants may sound easy but ignoring the pain being experienced by your child will be difficult and also hurt your wallet. Therefore it is suggested that you don’t consider ignoring sealants for your children for any reason.

There are several ways used to replace missing teeth. You can go for dentures, dental crowns, or dental bridges. Alternatively, you can go for dental implants which have become very popular in recent years. This article will help you understand more about them.

What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is an effective dental option for replacing lost teeth. This method involves the use of artificial root made of titanium and a crown that matches the color of your teeth. It is a perfect and permanent solution.

Pros

Let’s have a look at why people prefer dental implants compared to other methods of replacing teeth.

More Comfortable

Compared to the other methods of replacing missing teeth, dental implants are much comfortable. They look and feel like your natural teeth. In fact, no one can know you had lost some teeth if you don’t tell. Chewing with them is more comfortable than with dentures. Dentures can move while eating and implants are fixed.

You Can Eat All Your Favorite Foods

Some replacements require you to avoid certain foods if you want them to last for a long time. With implants, you can eat anything as long as you maintain proper dental hygiene. They are more of the same as your natural teeth.

Durable

Dental implants are very durable. No other option can last as long as they can. They are a permanent solution to your lost teeth. Take good care of them and watch them last as long as you live.

Easy to Take Care Of

Taking care of dental implants is easy. They don’t require any additional care. You just need to brush them twice a day and floss them daily. You should also visit your dentist, as usual, every six months.

Also, implants are not as strong as your natural teeth, so avoid chewing things like pencils, pens, nails, candies, and ice, among other hard things. You may chip your implants or break them if you are not careful enough. Don’t smoke with implants either. It reduces their lifespan.

Are They Safe?

You don’t want to choose an option if you are not sure if it is safe, right? Well, you don’t have to worry about anything with dental implants. They have been around for about 50 years, and in the last 20, more than a million implant surgeries have been performed.

Statistics show that the success rate of the surgeries is 95%. You just need to find yourself an experienced dentist, and the whole procedure will be conducted with zero mistakes. You can count on us if you are looking for a dentist in South Houston, TX.

How Long Does the Treatment Take?

The procedure requires you to be patient. It is not something you will visit a dentist today, and in the evening, you have an implant. The procedure may take up to six months or more. It also requires at least three dental visits.

During the first visit, your dentist will explain everything you should expect during the procedure. You will discuss the cost of treatment, and if you have any tooth that needs extraction, it will be extracted. The dentist can move to the second phase if your bone is enough.

However, if the bone needs grafting, the surgery will be conducted, and you will be sent home to heal. The healing time is normally between three and six months.

The second phase will begin after you heal. The dentist will drill your gum and place a titanium root in your gum. You will be sent home to heal. It takes between three and six months to heal completely.

The third phase begins after you heal. The dentist will take impressions of your teeth and send them to the lab. An artificial tooth will be made for you. You will have to wait for up to 14 days for the tooth to be ready. Visit the dentist afterwards, and the tooth will be fixed.

How Much Does it Cost

The cost of dental implants varies from one place to another. For a rule thumb, it costs between $1000 and $5000 for a single tooth. For a full mouth implant restoration, be prepared with about $100, 000.

Espili Dental

We are the dentist near you if you are looking for an emergency dentist in South Houston. We accept walk-ins, so don’t panic if you don’t have an appointment. Our procedures are conducted professionally, and since we use the most advanced equipment, you can be sure they are painless. Contact us today!

The very first thing you should do if you are experiencing any dental problem is to call your dentist. However, sometimes your dentist may not be available or maybe it’s at night. At times like those, what should you do?

Well, the first thing you need to do is determine if it is a dental emergency or not. There are some issues that can wait till morning while others need to be attended to immediately. If it is an emergency, you need to contact an Emergency Dentist near you.

How to Determine If It Is an Emergency

Dental emergencies are very common. Statistics show that over 22% of Americans have experienced dental pain in the last six months. However, not every problem is a dental emergency. To help you determine if it’s an emergency or not, ask yourself these questions:

Is the Pain Severe?

If the pain is serious, that’s an emergency. Contact an emergency dentist near you and have him take a look at it. If the pain is manageable, take some painkillers and wait until morning to see a dentist.

Is it a Case of Lost Tooth?

A knocked-out tooth is a definite emergency and you need to contact the dentist ASAP. Try to attach the tooth back as you make your way to the dentist.

Are You Bleeding?

If you are bleeding from the mouth, it can be a sign of an emergency. If the bleeding is not serious, maybe you can wait till morning.

Is It An Infection?

A serious infection in your mouth can even be life-threatening. This is not something that should wait. Some signs of an infection include swelling around the mouth and face, knots on your gums, and severe pain. If you see such signs, contact your dentist ASAP.

What is Not an Emergency?

Some dental problems don’t qualify to be considered as dental emergencies and can wait a bit. You can wait for a few days as you assess the problem. You can even take care of some problems yourself. An example of a dental problem that is not an emergency is a painless chipped tooth.

Toothache can also last the night and see the dentist in the morning. However, if the pain is severe, visit an ER for a checkup.

A lost crown or filling can also wait a few days. In the meantime, stick gum on the cavity. The gum should be sugar-free. You can even try putting the crown back where it is supposed to be. Denture adhesive or dental cement can help you stick the crown back. Never use super glue!

Handling Common Dental Emergencies

Contacting a dentist should always be the first thing to do. But before you get there, there are some things you can do to alleviate the pain or save a tooth. Here are some effective ways of handling common emergencies:

Knocked-out Tooth

A knocked-out tooth can be saved if you react fast. To increase the chances, ensure to do the following:

• Pick the tooth from the ground by the crown and don’t touch the root
• Rinse it and don’t scrub it
• Try to insert the tooth back to the socket
• If it’s too painful, put the tooth in a small container containing milk or water with some salt in it
• Use the fastest means possible to get to the dentist. The faster you arrive there, the higher the chances of saving the tooth.

Chipped or Cracked Tooth

A serious and painful fracture is a dental emergency. Clean your mouth with warm water and then use the cold compress method to alleviate pain. Take Acetaminophen if the pain is not improving. Avoid numbing gel at this time. It may damage the gums.

Abscessed Tooth

Rinse your mouth with salty water a few times. The mild salt water may help alleviate pain and can draw the pus to the surface.

Broken Wires and Braces

Try using a pencil on the eraser end of it to try to push the wire to a comfortable position. Then cover the place with orthodontic wax or small cotton. Get to the dentist’s office as soon as possible. Avoid cutting the wires because you may swallow it unintentionally.

If you are looking for Dentists in South Houston, TX, Espili Dental is the place to be. We use the most advanced technologies to ensure all the procedures are as painless as possible. We accept walk-ins and emergencies in case you don’t have an appointment. Your smile is in safe hands with Dr. Espili. Contact us today!

A dental emergency can strike at any time no matter how careful you are. While the emergency wouldn’t have given you the time and location when it would hit you certainly have the option of being prepared for it by gathering the information that will prove beneficial for you.

Many people have dental insurance but most are not aware of what they are covered for and the matter that is often ignored is dental emergencies. For unknown reasons people have developed the impression that dental emergencies can only affect them at home and not when they are away for any reason.

In this article, we are looking at some important information you should be having in your possession if you ever come across a dental emergency in any place. The information will not only help to save your teeth but also make it possible for you to reduce unnecessary costs. Let us look at the information that you should have.

Understand the Dental Insurance You Have Properly

Dental insurers cover emergency dental care provided by dentists or emergency dental clinics. The annual maximums, co-pays, and deductibles remain the same as standard care. Dentists are also aware that an emergency can strike at any time and therefore provide after hour contact numbers to their patients. Therefore during your next appointment take notes about your dentists after hours contact numbers that will become useful in an emergency. Make it a point to check your coverage in detail because out of network dentists may not be covered depending on the plan you have purchased.

If you plan to travel your coverage will largely depend on the location you traveling and the insurer that is covering you. Having a policy from a nationwide insurance company is essential for any emergencies that may occur when you are traveling. Some dental insurance companies even offer coverage outside the United States but many do not. Dental insurance often does not apply to an emergency room or urgent care visits before we covered by the medical plan. It would be a good idea to check both your dental plan and medical plan to understand how well you covered in case of an emergency.

What You Can Do When Confronted with a Dental Emergency?

Whenever you experience mouth pain or a tooth injury you must look for the emergency dentist near you to get immediate attention to the problem you are facing. You will require some time to reach your regular dentist even if you have his or her after hour contact number. In the meanwhile, you should make every attempt to ensure some care has been provided to your tooth and mouth. It can mean the difference between having all your teeth or looking for expensive replacements for lost teeth.

Knocked-out Tooth

If you have managed to knock out a tooth should gently pick it up by holding the crown, making attempts not to touch the roots before trying to place it back in its socket. If you are unable to or are scared to do so you can place it in a container of milk and attempt to see your dentist within 30 minutes. If you adhere to the period the dentist may be able to place the tooth back into your mouth.

Toothache

A toothache is not something that should be ignored because it could be an indication of a problem you may not be able to identify. You should rinse your mouth with warm water after eating and exercise care when flossing. If you observe any swelling use an ice pack in the area that is hurting. Contact your dentist to schedule an appointment if swelling is present around the tooth.

Sore Mouth

Avoiding acidic foods like tomatoes and oranges must be your goal if you have a sore mouth. These foods can cause more pain in the area. If you notice any white patches in your mouth along with unusual lumps and the sores remain in your mouth for about two weeks contact your dentist immediately.

You need to understand what constitutes a dental emergency and how you can deal with it effectively with the dental insurance plan in your possession or by visiting the dentist in Houston for proper attention. Being prepared for it is also a requirement besides learning preventive care which can help you to avoid dental emergencies altogether. Practicing proper oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice a day, flossing, and visiting your dentist for regular exams and cleanings can educate you about dental emergencies and make you prepared to deal with them effectively. If dental emergencies have a habit of striking without warning you should develop a habit of remaining alert for the emergency and ready for a battle right away with all the information you need in your hand.

A month before Christmas is perhaps the best time for you to consider wisdom tooth extraction if you have been recommended the procedure by your dentist. Dentists are looking forward to making the festive season happier for you by offering discounts on the procedure along with spending some time with you to dispel any misunderstanding or myths that exist about wisdom tooth extraction. Therefore, if you have been recommended wisdom tooth extraction for any reason we suggest you consider the same seriously because you may find financial relief because of the discounts available.

Why Do Dentists suggest Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

This procedure is recommended to remove one or more wisdom teeth out of the four adult teeth located in the back of your mouth the upper and lower jaw. When wisdom teeth do not have sufficient space to grow they can result in pain, infection, and other dental problems. They could even become impacted in which cases your dentist or an oral surgeon will recommend extraction of the tooth.

In many cases, dentists recommended wisdom tooth extraction despite no problems being reported by the patient leading to misunderstandings that the dentist was only attempting to subject the patient to a painful procedure or for generating some extra revenue for himself or herself.

Why Wisdom Teeth Are Extracted?

The third molars are the wisdom teeth and the last permanent teeth to appear in the mouth. Wisdom teeth generally appear between the ages of 17 to 25 and some people never developed them. The eruption is normal for many but many people develop impacted wisdom teeth that do not have enough room to develop normally. The impacted tooth may erupt partially or not at all. It can also cause some problems as mentioned below:

• Grow at an angle towards the next teeth.
• Grow towards the back of the mouth.
• Grow at an angle towards the other teeth as though it is lying down inside the jawbone.
• Stay trapped within the jawbone.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth Can Cause Problems

If you are experiencing problems such as the following if it becomes necessary for you to have the wisdom teeth pulled out. The problems are:

• Pain.
• Infection or gum disease.
• Food and debris trapped behind the wisdom tooth.
• Damage to a tooth nearby and surrounding bone.
• Development of a cyst filled with fluids around the wisdom tooth.
• Problems with orthodontic treatments for straightening other teeth.

Dental specialists disagree about the need to extract wisdom teeth that are not causing any problems. However, as they are unable to predict problems in the future they are expecting them as a preventive measure. However, it must be understood that even impacted wisdom teeth that are asymptomatic can cause problems and harbor disease making it difficult for the individual to clean around it properly. Younger adults may face serious complications with wisdom teeth less frequently, unlike older adults who experience difficulties with and after the surgery for the removal.

Are there Risks Associated with Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Long-term complications are not expected with wisdom teeth extraction. However, extracting wisdom tooth that is impacted may require a surgical approach causing the oral surgeon to make incisions in the gum tissue and removing the bone. Complications can sometimes include:

• A painful dry socket or exposure of the bone if the post-surgical blood clot is lost from the site.
• Bacteria could infect the socket which could have trapped food particles.
• Damage to the nerves, teeth, sinuses, and jawbone.

Preparing for the Extraction

Dentists perform wisdom tooth extraction as an outpatient procedure indicating that you will be able to go home the same day. You will be provided with instructions from the dental staff about what you should be doing before the surgery on the day of the procedure. However, you can be prepared with any questions you have especially if you believe you need help after the wisdom tooth has been extracted. Questions such as Will you need to make arrangements to be driven back home? Do you need to fast before arriving for the procedure? Should any prescription medications be avoided before the surgery? These are questions you must be prepared to ask for your good because anesthesia of some kind will be administered to you during the procedure.

After The Procedure

If you’re administered sedation anesthesia or general anesthesia you will be required to rest in a recovery room after the procedure. The recovery time after local anesthesia is brief and will remain the same as the dental chair. You must follow the post-treatment tips provided by your dentist as you begin to heal from the surgery. You may notice some bleeding from the site after the day the wisdom tooth was extracted. Try to avoid excessive spitting to avoid dislodging the blood clot from the socket.

You will be suggested over-the-counter painkillers like acetaminophen or prescription painkillers from your oral surgeon. These medications are particularly helpful if some bone has been removed during the procedure. Using an ice pack against your jaw will also help to alleviate the swelling. It is recommended that you rest for a day before returning to your normal activities but avoid strenuous activity because it can be a cause for the building in your mouth again.

For the initial 24 hours after the procedure to not brush or rinse your mouth, quit smoking for at least 72 hours and hard foods for at least a week to avoid affecting the wound.

You can call your dentist if you are facing any problems such as difficulties with breathing and swallowing, fever, severe pain, pus or swelling that worsens after a couple of days, and persistent numbness or loss of feeling. Your dentist will recommend the steps you need to take or even visit him or her for an appointment to evaluate your condition.

The recovery period after wisdom tooth removal is just about a week and you should be back to normal in about seven days. With an entire month left for Christmas to arrive this is the appropriate time for you to approach your dentist for wisdom tooth removal and take advantage of any discounts being offered by the dentist.

Your wisdom teeth are an unwanted problem in your mouth because there is no reason for them to be there. However, they do erupt and can unleash chaos on your body. It is the reason why many dentists recommend wisdom teeth removal even when they are not causing any problems. The advice from dentists is often ignored especially when people are not bothered by them. They can, however, cause trouble for you and your mouth later in life if you do not take any action against them.

Wisdom Teeth Are Chaotic And Better Removed

You may not even remember where the wisdom teeth are located because they are not necessary for your overall chewing ability. It is possible that many people do not even develop them but if you have already developed the teeth you can expect some problems to arrive your way at some time.

Wisdom teeth can erupt into a spot where there is insufficient space crowding the rest of your teeth. This can happen when they erupt at an angle but get trapped within the jawbone. These problems can lead to complications like fluid-filled cysts, pain, or damage to the adjacent teeth and bones.

Wisdom teeth can make it difficult for you to clean your teeth properly leading to symptoms of periodontitis which could leave you with bad breath, swollen and bleeding gums. They can also cause difficulties in opening your mouth. One may believe the information provided does not sound painless because it is not. They can cause discomfort when they erupt even if the eruption is proper. People who face infections will, unfortunately, be the victims of concerning pain and soreness. It is at this stage that the dentist will recommend wisdom teeth removal before they can cause more trouble even when people are not exhibiting any signs of pain.

Dentists Will Conduct an Examination Before The Extraction

People that want to understand what to do before treatment are advised a visit to the dentist will be required for examinations and an x-ray to understand how their teeth are positioned and whether any space is available for them to grow. People who are experiencing symptoms or the dentist foresees problems with the wisdom teeth will schedule an appointment for the wisdom teeth removal.

The Procedure For Removing These Teeth

The procedure for removing these teeth is not as difficult or painful as it is made out to be. Dentists are fully qualified to administer sedation dentistry along with local anesthesia to make people comfortable during the removal even as they are awake. They are unlikely to remember the procedure because of the sedation dentistry. In some cases, they may be administered general anesthesia that completely knocks them out. In such cases, people will be requested not to have foods before the procedure for avoiding any complications.

After people have been fully sedated the dentist or oral surgeon will use special instruments to loosen the tissue around the wisdom teeth before popping them out. The procedure does not require any force on the part of the dentist but just finesse.

Wisdom Teeth Removed — What Next

What to do after treatment of wisdom teeth removal is another question that often haunts people because they have heard various stories from others about the difficulties they faced. People will be advised to take things easy and let the surgical wound healing. The type of sedation used may require people to have someone around them for the drive back home. Some swelling and pain after wisdom teeth removal are quite common but it does not mean that people have an opportunity to stay off work. People may be in a difficult situation if they have had all four wisdom teeth removed at one time.

People must understand the area of the wisdom teeth will be sore for about a week but the pain subsides in a day or two. The dentist will prescribe medications to relieve the pain and help the patient. The patient can also make inquiries with the dentist about using ice packs to relieve swelling, pain, and bruising. The patient can expect to be recommended to have soft foods for some days after the extraction.

Wisdom Teeth Extraction — Dentists To Contact

It is recommended that people search for a qualified dentist or oral surgeon that understands this procedure because not many dentists despite being amazing are conducting these procedures frequently. Therefore the neighborhood dentist people were visiting may not be the professional for this task. It would, therefore, be beneficial for people to request a referral to an oral surgeon that can provide better treatment and advice about the things that should be done before and after the procedure of wisdom teeth removal.

With Halloween approaching fast the tips for healthy teeth are observing an unprecedented demand. Dentists may be happy that people are suddenly waking up to understand those healthy teeth are an essential requirement which cannot be ignored. They may be pleased to talk about orthodontics because it focuses on modifying facial growth which is also known as dentofacial orthopedics. They may, however, be perplexed with the demand being observed for tips for healthy teeth. To overcome any concerns being faced by people we provide a few tips which can contribute to healthy teeth. Continue reading to understand how you can succeed in your objective.

Caring Of Your Toothbrush

Healthy teeth require a toothbrush which is maintained properly. This indicates you should be caring for your toothbrush just as you do with your teeth. Rinsing well after brushing is a suggestion we can make. Storing it in an upright position in the open with plenty of airflow around it will help the bristles dry up and prevent microorganisms from growing on your toothbrush and thriving in the moist and amendment. This method will become ineffective after some time when you are suggested to purchase a new toothbrush. The American Dental Association recommends replacing toothbrushes every 3 to 4 months but children may need faster replacements.

Brushing Your Tongue

If you intend to fight the bacteria in your mouth you should also be brushing your tongue. This does not only help to keep your teeth healthy but it can also prevent the problem of halitosis. Attempt to use a toothbrush with a cheek and tongue cleaner which can help you to easily remove the bacteria from your mouth every time you brush.

Have a Discussion With Your Dentist

Do not forget to discuss with your dentist or dental hygienist about any care you may require. Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and also to talk about sealants or veneers which you consider are essential for you or your children. Your dentist can provide you all advise needed while also creating a daily brushing and flossing plan suited to the specific requirements of your teeth.

Choose Your Beverages Carefully

The health of your teeth can be affected by the beverages you drink. Soft drinks and sugary juices are considered as the main culprits of tooth decay. Avoiding soda and increasing your consumption of water, fresh juices, and milk can offer your teeth the protection they need.

Do Not Forget To Use Fluoride

Many people believe fluoride is just required for children without realizing this natural mineral can harden tooth enamel which is helpful to prevent cavities. You can obtain the fluoride needed from your toothpaste and some mouth rinses. Dentists can provide you in-office treatments or suggest at-home treatments to manage this problem. However, you must discuss with your dentist about the type of fluoride treatment best suited to your needs.

Most importantly do not be under the false impression that tips for healthy teeth are only beneficial during Halloween. Halloween is a time when many people and mainly children are exposed to the problems of not having healthy teeth because they receive treats that leave a residue in the mouth after being consumed. Children in the age group of 11 to 13 who may not have had sealants placed on the fissures on their teeth become susceptible to tooth decay. Adults participating in Halloween festivities with teeth that are discolored may realize their smile would benefit if they had veneers in their mouth. People need to consider every problem they could encounter before researching for tips for healthy teeth just before Halloween.

Practicing dentists are always willing to share the tips for healthy teeth with the recommendation that they are followed throughout the year. Maintaining teeth properly is not just a one time job. Trying to accomplish this task occasionally will only increase dental visits with inquiries about maintaining proper oral hygiene. Instead of spending additional time and money behind orthodontics appointments it is recommended that people use the suggestions provided as it can help them maintain their teeth in a healthy condition throughout the year. Of course, they can certainly visit their dentist before Halloween asking for “trick or treat”. However, the likelihood of them being treated with more tips for healthy teeth are high as dentists are not the Masters of tricking their patients.