Let’s break it down.

Common Causes of Toothaches

Not every toothache points to a dental emergency. In fact, some causes are relatively minor and easy to treat. Here are a few common (and often less serious) reasons you might feel discomfort:

• Tooth sensitivity: Triggered by hot, cold, or sweet foods — often caused by worn enamel or receding gums.
• Food stuck between teeth: A piece of popcorn or a seed can irritate your gums and cause pain until it’s removed.
• Minor tooth decay: Small cavities may cause discomfort when biting or chewing but are usually easy to treat with a filling.
• Sinus pressure: Sometimes what feels like upper tooth pain is actually sinus-related — especially during allergy season or a cold.

While these issues aren’t usually emergencies, they still need to be checked by your dentist to prevent them from becoming bigger problems.

Signs Your Toothache Might Be Serious

Persistent or severe pain is your cue to stop waiting. Here are red flags that your toothache may be a symptom of a deeper dental issue:

1. Sharp or Throbbing Pain That Won’t Go Away

If your toothache lingers for more than 1–2 days or keeps you up at night, it could be a sign of an infection or advanced tooth decay.

2. Pain When Chewing or Biting

This may indicate a cracked tooth, a deep cavity, or an issue with the tooth’s root. Left untreated, it could lead to tooth loss or a spreading infection.

3. Swollen Gums or Face

Swelling around your gums, jaw, or cheek is a classic sign of an abscess — a serious infection that can spread to other areas of the body if not treated quickly.

4. Foul Taste or Smell in the Mouth

A persistent bad taste or odor, even after brushing, could point to an abscess that is draining pus.

5. Fever or Feeling Unwell

If your toothache comes with a fever or swollen lymph nodes, your body may be fighting a bacterial infection. According to the Canadian Dental Association, these symptoms require prompt attention from a dentist to prevent the infection from spreading further.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait

Tooth infections don’t just stay in your mouth. If bacteria from an untreated abscess enter your bloodstream, it can lead to serious health complications. Even smaller issues like cavities or cracked fillings can worsen quickly.

That’s why it’s important to see a dentist when something feels off — even if you think it’s “just a toothache.”

What to Expect at the Dentist

When you visit a dentist in Salmon Arm, BC, your appointment will begin with a thorough exam and possibly an X-ray. Your dentist will check for:

• Cavities or decay
• Gum infection
• Cracked or damaged teeth
• Signs of abscess or infection in the jawbone

Based on what’s found, treatment could range from a simple filling to a root canal, or in some cases, an extraction followed by restorative work like a dental implant or bridge.

Home Remedies Until You Can See a Dentist

While you’re waiting for your appointment, you can ease your discomfort with these tips:

• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water
• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen
• Avoid extremely hot, cold, or sweet foods

But remember — these are temporary solutions, not substitutes for proper dental care.

Final Thoughts

Toothaches are never convenient, but they’re always important. Sometimes it’s a minor issue that can be resolved quickly. Other times, it’s your body warning you about something more serious. The sooner you act, the better your chances of saving the tooth and avoiding more complex treatments.

If you’re experiencing tooth pain — don’t wait. Book an appointment with a trusted dentist. Your future self (and your smile) will thank you.

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Why Straighten Your Teeth

Straightening your teeth isn’t just about appearance—it’s a step toward better oral health. Crooked or crowded teeth can make brushing and flossing more difficult, leading to plaque buildup and a higher risk of cavities or gum disease. Misaligned bites can also cause jaw pain, uneven tooth wear, and even speech issues. Orthodontic treatment helps correct these problems, creating a smile that looks great and functions properly. Whether you choose braces or Invisalign, the long-term benefits include improved confidence, easier maintenance, and a healthier mouth overall. It’s more than cosmetic—it’s an investment in your health and quality of life.

When Are Braces Needed

Braces are often recommended to correct various dental issues that can impact both oral health and aesthetics. According to the Canadian Association of Orthodontists, traditional braces are effective in treating a wide range of orthodontic problems, including:

• Crowded or crooked teeth: When teeth overlap or are misaligned.
  
• Overbites and underbites: Misalignments where the upper or lower teeth protrude excessively.
  
• Crossbites: When upper and lower teeth don’t align properly.
  
• Spacing issues: Gaps between teeth due to missing teeth or natural spacing.
  

These conditions can lead to difficulties in cleaning teeth, increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease, and can affect chewing and speech. Braces work by applying continuous pressure over time to gradually move teeth into their proper positions, improving both function and appearance.

What Are Invisalign Aligners

Invisalign aligners are a modern, discreet alternative to traditional metal braces. Made from clear, BPA-free plastic, these custom-fit trays gently shift your teeth into place over time. Patients typically wear each set of aligners for one to two weeks, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss. Invisalign is popular among teens and adults who want a nearly invisible treatment option without the dietary restrictions or visibility of braces. It’s best suited for mild to moderate alignment issues such as spacing, crowding, and minor bite problems. To learn more about how clear aligners work and who they’re best for, visit this Invisalign Langley Orthodontist resource for helpful insights and patient info.

Quick Comparison – Braces vs. Invisalign

Still unsure which option is right for you? Here’s a quick side-by-side look at how traditional braces compare to Invisalign aligners in terms of appearance, comfort, and lifestyle compatibility:

Take the Quiz – What’s Right for You

Not sure whether braces or Invisalign is right for you? Answer these 7 quick questions to get a better idea of which treatment might suit your needs. Keep track of your answers, then check your results below.

Quiz Questions

1. How important is it for your treatment to be nearly invisible?
   
   • A) Very important
     
   • B) I don’t mind if it shows
     
2. Are you disciplined enough to wear aligners 20–22 hours a day?
   
   • A) Yes, I can follow a routine
     
   • B) I might forget or remove them often
     
3. How complex are your dental issues?
   
   • A) Mild to moderate
     
   • B) More severe (e.g., bite issues, crowding)
     
4. Do you want to eat whatever you like during treatment?
   
   • A) Yes
     
   • B) I can avoid certain foods if needed
     
5. Do you prefer fewer clinic visits?
   
   • A) Yes
     
   • B) I don’t mind regular check-ins
     
6. How old are you?
   
   • A) Teen or adult with full responsibility
     
   • B) Child or young teen needing more supervision
     
7. Is cost a major deciding factor for you?
   
   • A) I’m willing to invest more for convenience
     
   • B) I prefer the most affordable option available
     

Quiz Results

• Mostly A’s – You may be a great candidate for Invisalign. You value comfort, flexibility, and appearance—and are likely responsible enough to wear aligners as instructed.
  
• Mostly B’s – Braces could be the better choice for you, especially if your orthodontic needs are more complex or you prefer a hands-off treatment approach.
  
• Mixed – You may benefit from a customized treatment plan. Book a consultation at Oman Dental College to discuss what’s best for your smile.

What to Do After the Quiz

Your quiz results are a great starting point, but they’re not a substitute for professional advice. Orthodontic treatment should always be tailored to your unique dental structure, lifestyle, and goals. At Oman Dental College, our orthodontic specialists will assess your teeth, answer your questions, and recommend the best solution—whether that’s braces, Invisalign, or another option. Book a consultation to take the next step toward a straighter, healthier smile with confidence and clarity.

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For detailed 3D models of tongue and dental pathologies referenced in this article, explore the VOKA 3D Anatomy & Pathology website and app.

What Does a Healthy Tongue Look Like?

The proper characteristics of a typical healthy tongue include the following properties:

• Pink color represents the normal appearance of the tongue while it may exhibit slightly different tones between either light or dark tones.
• Small papillae-shaped taste buds cover the tongue surface as its main textured element.
• Slightly moist due to saliva
• No persistent pain and discomfort as well as unusual or burning sensations.
• Minimal white coating but heavy coating might signal potential problems.

Normal tongue view – 3D model by VOKA Anatomy & Pathology

Signs of an Unhealthy Tongue

An unhealthy tongue can exhibit changes linked to nutritional deficiencies, infections, or systemic diseases. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Color Changes

• Black Hairy Tongue:
  • Causes: Overgrowth of bacteria/yeast due to poor oral hygiene, smoking, or antibiotics.
  • Appearance: Dark, furry patches from elongated papillae trapping debris.
  • Note: Harmless but can be improved with tongue scraping and oral care.

Black hairy tongue  – 3D model by VOKA Anatomy & Pathology

• Bright Red Tongue (Atrophic Glossitis):
  • Linked to: Iron deficiency anemia or vitamin B deficiencies (B3, B12, folate).
  • Symptoms: Smooth, glossy texture due to papillae loss; may cause burning.

Iron deficiency anemia (atrophic glossitis)  – 3D model by VOKA Anatomy & Pathology

• White Patches:
  • Median Rhomboid Glossitis:
    • Cause: Fungal infection (often Candida).
    • Appearance: Smooth, red, diamond-shaped patch near the tongue’s center.

Texture & Surface Abnormalities

• Fissured Tongue (Scrotal Tongue):
  • Features: Deep grooves or cracks; often harmless but may trap food.
  • Associated with: Down syndrome, psoriasis, or Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome.

Fissured tongue  – 3D model by VOKA Anatomy & Pathology

• Geographic Tongue (Benign Migratory Glossitis):
  • Appearance: Map-like red patches with white borders; patches shift over time.
  • Cause: Unknown; linked to stress, genetics, or autoimmune triggers.
  • Note: Painless but may cause sensitivity to spicy foods.

Geographic tongue  – 3D model by VOKA Anatomy & Pathology

Pain & Inflammation

• Atrophic Glossitis:
  • From Iron Deficiency Anemia: Tongue appears pale, smooth, and swollen.
  • From Vitamin B12 Deficiency: “Beefy red” tongue with soreness.

Atrophic glossitis  – 3D model by VOKA Anatomy & Pathology

• Oral Thrush:
  • Cause: Candida overgrowth (common in diabetes or post-antibiotics).
  • Signs: White, cottage cheese-like patches that bleed when scraped.

Bumps & Sores

• Canker Sores: Small, painful ulcers (not contagious).
• Oral Cancer Warning Signs:
  • Persistent lumps, red/white patches, or non-healing sores.

For comprehensive peer-reviewed pathology descriptions, consult the VOKA Wikipedia Dentistry collection.

When to See a Doctor or Dentist

While some tongue variations are normal, certain symptoms warrant professional evaluation. Here’s when to consult a doctor or dentist:

Concerning Color Changes

Seek care for persistent discoloration that lasts more than two weeks, including:

• White patches that cannot be scraped away (potential oral thrush or leukoplakia)
• Unusual redness (may indicate vitamin deficiencies or infections like scarlet fever)
• Dark pigmentation (could signal medication side effects or poor oral hygiene)

Persistent Pain or Texture Changes

Medical assessment is needed for:

• Sores or ulcers that fail to heal within 14 days
• Lumps or thickened areas that persist or grow
• Smooth, glossy patches (possible sign of nutrient deficiencies)
• Deep cracks or grooves accompanied by pain

Functional Difficulties

Prompt evaluation is crucial if you experience:

• Trouble moving the tongue normally
• Swallowing problems or persistent discomfort
• Numbness or loss of sensation

Other Warning Signs

Don’t ignore:

• Unexplained bleeding without injury
• Sudden swelling that affects breathing or speech
• Foul taste or odor that persists despite oral hygiene

Why Timely Care Matters

Early intervention can address:

• Nutritional deficiencies before they worsen
• Infections that may spread without treatment
• Precancerous changes when most treatable

Trust your instincts – if something seems abnormal or persists, professional evaluation provides answers and peace of mind. Schedule an appointment promptly for any lasting tongue changes that concern you.

Final Thoughts

The condition of your tongue shows important signs about your physical well-being. Some changes in tongue appearance are insignificant whereas others require medical intervention. Good oral care combined with regular hydration and dental appointments will help you maintain healthy tongue conditions alongside a proper state of health.

Remember: A healthy tongue means a healthier you. Don’t ignore the signs!

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Understanding Invisalign and Traditional Braces

Dr. Williams, an orthodontist in Langley, BC, at South Surrey Smiles, explains, “Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to gradually shift teeth into place, offering a more discreet alternative to traditional braces.” But how does it compare to conventional metal braces?

How Invisalign Works

Invisalign aligners are custom-made from clear, BPA-free plastic. Patients wear a series of trays, changing them every one to two weeks to guide their teeth into proper alignment. The aligners are removable, making eating and oral hygiene easier than with braces.

How Traditional Braces Work

Braces use metal or ceramic brackets attached to the teeth, connected by wires that are periodically adjusted to shift alignment. While effective for complex cases, they require careful maintenance and dietary restrictions to prevent damage to the brackets.

Top Reasons Why Canadians Prefer Invisalign Over Braces

More Canadians are choosing Invisalign over traditional braces due to its convenience, aesthetics, and effectiveness. Here’s why:

• Nearly Invisible Appearance – Unlike metal braces, Invisalign aligners are clear and discreet, making them a popular choice for professionals and adults who want a subtle orthodontic solution.
• Removable for Eating and Cleaning – Invisalign trays can be taken out when eating, drinking, or brushing teeth. This eliminates food restrictions and makes oral hygiene much easier compared to braces.
• More Comfortable to Wear – With smooth plastic trays, Invisalign avoids the discomfort of metal brackets and wires that can cause mouth irritation. There are also no painful tightening appointments.
• Fewer Orthodontic Visits – Traditional braces require frequent adjustments, but Invisalign patients typically visit their orthodontist less often, making it more convenient for those with busy schedules.
• Effective for Many Cases – While braces are still the best option for complex orthodontic issues, Invisalign is effective for mild to moderate misalignments, closing gaps, and straightening crowded teeth.

Cost Comparison: Is Invisalign More Expensive in Canada?

When considering Invisalign versus traditional braces, cost is a major factor for many Canadians. On average, Invisalign treatment ranges from $3,000 to $8,000, while metal braces typically cost between $3,000 and $7,000. The final price depends on the complexity of the case, treatment duration, and the dental provider.

One reason Invisalign is sometimes more expensive is the advanced technology used to create custom aligners and the convenience of fewer in-office visits. However, many provincial healthcare plans do not cover orthodontic treatment, meaning patients must rely on private insurance or out-of-pocket payments. To check coverage options, visit Canada.ca or your provincial health service website.

Some insurance providers cover a portion of Invisalign costs, just as they do for braces. To explore financial assistance or payment plans, consult the Canadian Dental Association (cda-adc.ca) or speak with a local orthodontist.

Who Should Consider Braces Instead of Invisalign?

While Invisalign is a popular choice, traditional braces may be a better option for certain individuals. Braces are often recommended for patients with severe misalignment, complex bite issues, or significant tooth rotations, as they provide stronger corrective force.

Additionally, younger patients or those who may struggle with wearing aligners for 20–22 hours a day might find braces more effective, as they are fixed in place. Braces can also be a more affordable option for those without insurance coverage for Invisalign.

Conclusion

Both Invisalign and traditional braces offer effective solutions for achieving a straighter smile, but Invisalign’s discreet design, comfort, and convenience make it a preferred choice for many Canadians. However, braces remain the better option for complex dental issues. If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, consult a professional to determine the best solution for your needs. No matter which option you choose, investing in your smile is always a step toward better oral health and confidence.

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Tartar and plaque: what’s the difference?

Plaque is soft, and the patient can remove it on their own when brushing their teeth.

Tartar is the last stage of plaque, which was not removed in time, it rebelled and began to strengthen.

It is like snow that is not removed in time, which will sooner or later turn into ice.

What can tartar lead to if it is not removed?

• Provokes the occurrence of caries, gum disease / periodontitis /, which can lead to tooth loss
• Teeth begin to darken and become dull
• Provokes the appearance of bad breath
• Can cause diseases of the gastrointestinal tract

In order to keep your teeth healthy, you need to brush your teeth thoroughly and regularly and have professional hygienic comprehensive dental cleaning done twice a year with professional dental equipment.

The procedure of professional teeth cleaning is carried out in three stages

1. Ultrasonic cleaning / ultrasonic scaling and cleaning of interdental spaces /.
   Ultrasonic cleaning is the most effective method for removing tartar.
   Usually, the hardest tartar is located under the gums and due to the ultrasonic vibrations, it is cleaned and washed out with water.
   Even hard-to-reach areas of the teeth from the outside and inside are treated with ultrasound.
2. Removal of plaque with Profiflex or Air Flow devices
   At this stage, a special abrasive mixture is used to remove plaque.
   The procedure is carried out by a special device that generates a powerful jet of soda, water and air.
   A moving air stream with abrasive particles under high pressure removes plaque.
3. Teeth polishing
   Teeth polishing is carried out with abrasive pastes, polishing systems using special brushes and various granular pastes.

This stage is designed to prevent further rapid deposition of stone and plaque. Teeth become glossy, and a person can clean plaque with a regular brush on their own
Finally, a fluoride gel is applied to the teeth.

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Oral diseases are common non-communicable diseases that bring discomfort and pain to people throughout their lives.

Caries is the most common among the evaluated disorders. The pathological process is accompanied by a change in the color of enamel, softening of hard tissue. The presence of a wide range of harmful products, constant stress, consumption of alcoholic beverages and smoking have led to the fact that 95-98% of the population has such a problem.

The main causes of dental caries:

• A favorable environment for the development of bacteria, which is formed due to the lack of regular proper cleaning;
• malnutrition with an excessive consumption of carbohydrates;
• damage to internal organs and systems;
• constant stress, up to the development of depression.

Lack of oral prophylaxis leads to periodontitis – a disease of the periodontal tissues. It is accompanied by bleeding, gingivitis (swollen gums), loose and shifting teeth, and bad breath.

Untreated tooth decay can lead to periodontitis, an inflammatory process that gradually destroys the bone tissue near the root of the tooth. It is manifested by lingering pain in a certain place, throbbing painful sensations, pus discharge, tooth mobility, fever and general deterioration of the condition.

Chronic periodontitis often proceeds without any symptoms. The patient seeks help too late, when the affected tooth can no longer be saved. That is why we emphasize proper nutrition and oral hygiene. These simple methods can keep your smile healthy and beautiful.

For home brushing, be sure to choose the right toothbrush. It is desirable to choose a medium hard toothbrush to clean the oral cavity well without traumatizing the gums. You need to change it every 1-4 months, depending on the specific variant.

Pharmacies and stores sell two main types of toothpastes: hygienic (have a purely cleansing and refreshing effect) and therapeutic and prophylactic (designed to prevent caries, periodontal diseases and oral mucosa). The composition of the latter includes biologically active additives, so you should choose toothpaste carefully, following the recommendations of the dentist.

Instead of the usual toothpicks, after eating, it is better to use a floss. Dental floss made of synthetic fibers cleans the interdental spaces well, prevents tooth decay and inflammation of the gums.

In addition, take care of what to rinse your mouth for prevention. It is enough to fill your mouth with plain water and make short baths. It is more effective to use special rinses, but it is safer to choose them with your doctor.

If you often consume drinks with coloring pigment, rarely or incorrectly carry out hygienic procedures, then it is worth resorting to professional cleaning.

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Vitamins are not a panacea: proper and regular oral hygiene is important
Of course, eating a healthy diet is important, but it’s much more important to spend enough time on oral hygiene.

In most cases, oral hygiene involves brushing your teeth in the morning and evening. On one hand, this is better than not brushing at all at night, but on the other hand, it’s not enough to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Doctors’ oral hygiene tips for patients:

It is a top priority for every person, regardless of lifestyle, hobbies, or religion, to maintain a thorough oral hygiene routine.

At the same moment, it is also important what products are included in the diet, because the lack of useful microelements also affects the health of teeth and gums.

What happens if there are not enough vitamins and minerals in the body?

Deficiency of useful elements in the body leads to weakening of gum tissue and worsens blood circulation in them, as a consequence, teeth become brittle and vulnerable to disease: caries develops, chipping occurs.

In addition, the patient develops a mild inflammation of soft tissues – gingivitis, which is accompanied by bleeding and bad breath. Further, if the patient ignores the problem, gingivitis develops into periodontitis, and then into periodontal disease.

What vitamins and minerals strengthen the teeth

So that you do not get confused about what vitamins are useful for teeth and gums, we will divide them into two groups: the first for maintaining healthy bones and tissues of the teeth, the second – for gums and mucosa.

Calcium
Calcium for teeth is an essential micronutrient.

99% of the calcium in the human body is found in the bones and teeth. It is calcium that makes teeth strong, and its deficiency – leads to chips and cracks.

Phosphorus
Like calcium, most of the phosphorus is found in bones and teeth. Moreover, phosphorus participates in the metabolic processes with calcium: they form insoluble salts that strengthen teeth.

In our diet there are enough foods that contain phosphorus (which ones – read below), so in most cases, the human body always has enough of this trace element.

Vitamin D
Vitamin D is important for maintaining healthy teeth and increasing their mineral density.

Also, vitamin D plays another important role. It acts as a catalyst for the absorption and entry of calcium into the bloodstream. On its own, calcium is not absorbed, so if there is not enough vitamin D, the bones weaken.

Vitamin D enters the human body when exposed to sunlight, so in clear weather, you don’t have to worry about a lack of it.

Magnesium
Like vitamin D, magnesium improves the absorption of calcium and contributes to the proper formation of the structure of the teeth and the entry of useful elements into the dentin.

Lack of magnesium in the body leads to incomplete absorption of calcium and an increased risk of periodontitis.

Vitamin C
Vitamin C supports the connective tissues of the gums and bone health.

A deficiency of the vitamin in the body causes even healthy teeth to loosen and gums to become weak, inflamed and bleeding. In other words, gingivitis develops.

Also, vitamin C prevents the formation and accumulation of plaque around the teeth.

Vitamin A
The vitamin maintains the health of tooth enamel and the mucous membrane that covers the gums and cheeks.

Deficiency of the vitamin leads to tooth mobility and gum disease.

Vitamin K2
Strengthens the gums and promotes the production of the protein osteocalcin, which keeps bones and teeth strong.

Deficiency of the vitamin leads to gum disease and all its associated factors (bleeding, bad breath, loose teeth).

Vitamin B9 and folic acid
Vitamin B9 and folic acid are practically the same thing. The difference is that vitamin B9 is natural and found in foods, while folic acid is an artificially synthesized supplement.

Regardless of the origin (artificially created supplements or natural elements in foods), folate has a positive effect on the processes in the circulatory system and strengthens the gums.

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The power of proper nutrition

To maintain the attractiveness of the smile, it is important to follow a few simple rules. These include daily hygiene, regular visits to the dentist, and a balanced diet. A well-balanced diet can solve many problems. Consumption of the right foods has the following effects on oral health:

• prevents the destruction of bone structures;
• is the prevention of dental caries and other diseases;
• fights plaque and pathogenic bacteria;
• massages the gums;
• improves mucosal function.

Food is not a panacea for all ills, it does not guarantee that the teeth will be strong and healthy. However, it is an important part of the prevention of dental problems, together with other methods gives impressive results.

What to include in the menu to preserve enamel

Poor hygiene and poor diet are often the cause of enamel thinning. To prevent or suspend the process of destruction of the protective shell of the teeth, you need to add to the diet:

• Green vegetables. Many of them contain a large number of useful elements and fiber. At the moment of chewing vegetables, saliva is produced, which washes away bacteria, naturally cleaning teeth from plaque.
• Natural yogurt and cheese. Dairy products are rich in casein, which is a source of calcium and phosphorus. These two minerals are especially important for strengthening the hard shell of the teeth.
• Fish and seafood. Dentists believe that the effects of regular consumption of omega-3 fatty acids are comparable to deep fluoridation. Seafood contains many vitamins and trace elements. Shellfish are especially rich in iodine, calcium, phosphorus and fluoride. Therefore, to prevent the destruction of enamel, it is necessary to necessarily consume salmon, trout and other varieties of fish, as well as a variety of seafood.
• Green tea. It contains catechins (strong antioxidants), 20 amino acids, fluoride, calcium and other trace elements. The drink has a positive effect on enamel, freshens breath, kills pathogenic microbes, protects the surface of the teeth.
• A separate point is worth emphasizing the useful properties of water. Properly adjusted drinking regime promotes the secretion of saliva, neutralizing harmful microorganisms.

Foods and beverages that color enamel

There are many factors that affect the color of teeth, and one of them is food dyes. The list of beverages and foods that can negatively affect a whiter smile includes:

• Coffee and black tea. These two favorite drinks of many people are the “real enemies” of white enamel. Coffee contains cocoa butter, saturated carbohydrates, sugars, and tea contains a large amount of tannins. All these substances have a negative effect on the teeth. Coloring pigments actively penetrate into the porous structure of the protective layer, and the enamel gradually becomes yellow or dark brown.
• Carbonated drinks. A huge amount of sugar and acids wash out calcium, gradually destroying the upper layer of teeth. In addition, dyes settle in the dental tissue, because of which microcracks and caries appear.
• Natural juices. Drinks from freshly squeezed fruits and berries are of great benefit to the body, but at the same time can adversely affect tooth enamel. This is because of the acids that can lead to loosening and discoloration of the tooth surface.
• Beets. Despite the fact that the vegetable is useful, it contains a lot of chromogens that will instantly stain the surface, and if you do not brush your teeth immediately after use, the whiteness of the smile will not return for a long time.
• Candy, gum, and fruit ice. The amount of artificial colors and sugar in these products is simply off the scale. Therefore, it is better not to consume them at all, if you want to save your health.
• Wine (both red and white) also has a bad effect on enamel. The first includes tannins, which quickly color the surface, leaving ugly stains. Drinks from white grape varieties have a lot of organic acids that contribute to microcracks and susceptibility to temperature fluctuations.

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Dental implants and bridges may seem similar, both options are very different technically. When looking for the right solution to replace missing teeth, it’s important to know more about these differences and the main benefits of each.

A dental implant is a titanium post that acts as a tooth root and supports a crown. It is surgically inserted into the jawbone. It then fuses with the bone and provides a secure fixation in the desired position. After the osseointegration process is completed, an abutment is attached to the post framework. It protrudes above the gum line to provide space for the dental crown.

A dental bridge is also used to fill the space of a missing tooth. As the name implies, it bridges the gap between the teeth created by a missing tooth. The bridge must be anchored to one or more neighboring healthy teeth, which must be pre-sharpened to provide support. This allows the structure to withstand daily chewing loads. Unlike implants, dental bridges do not replace the root.

It is worth noting that placing a dental implant or bridge involves dental intervention. And before any intervention to restore the dentition, the teeth and gums are treated. Because, there should be no inflammatory processes in the oral cavity. Let’s take a closer look at the difference between a dental bridge and implantation.

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN IMPLANTATION AND DENTAL BRIDGES

Implantation and bridge placement are two different methods for replacing missing teeth. The main differences are summarized below:

1.PERFORMING THE PROCEDURE
As stated, a dental bridge is attached to healthy teeth. During your first visit for a dental bridge, the dentist prepares the neighboring teeth. Preparation includes removing some of the enamel and grinding to reshape the contour. This is done to make room for the crown that the dentist puts on them.

The next step is to take impressions of the teeth to use as a model from which the dentures are made in the laboratory. A temporary bridge will be placed for this period. During the second visit, the dentist will remove the temporary and install the fabricated permanent bridge. He will also check it and adjust it to ensure a proper fit. A dental bridge allows you to restore one or more lost teeth.

Although the dental bridge procedure itself is less invasive than implants, the classic method of placing a bridge involves grinding down healthy teeth. Therefore, they are more vulnerable to decay. If the life of the bridge ends, cracks may appear in it. Bacteria penetrate through them and infect the teeth. This is why modern dentistry recommends dental implants as an alternative to restoring lost teeth.

2.DURATION OF TREATMENT
Implants can take 3-6 months, as the implant must fuse with the jaw bone before an abutment and dental crown can be added. If the patient has insufficient jawbone density, a sinus elevator or bone augmentation may be required. This will increase the length of treatment.

3.TYPES OF DENTAL IMPLANTS AND BRIDGES
There are different types and brands of implants. However, irrespective of the type, the implants and more specifically the stem and abutment are made of bioinert titanium. The crown can be made of ceramic, metal-ceramic or zirconia.

4.NATURAL LOOK.
When choosing a dental bridge or implant, one of the main things to consider is appearance. Dental implants have a more natural look. They fit perfectly against the gum, whereas a bridge can be noticeable. In addition, implants are the most comfortable solution. Once placed, they feel just like natural teeth and are just as durable.

5.DURABILITY
Another key factor in comparing a bridge to an implant is durability. Implants are securely anchored in the jawbone, and will last the patient for more than 20 years.

Dental bridges need to be replaced about every 10 years and require careful oral hygiene. Healthy teeth on which the bridge is fixed may be damaged by decay.

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TYPES OF IMPLANTATION FOR COMPLETE AND PARTIAL TOOTH LOSS

A huge advantage of implantation is that it helps to restore both a single missing tooth and an entire tooth row. If one or more teeth need to be restored, a separate implant (artificial tooth root) is used for each tooth unit. In cases where there are no teeth at all, this technique can be too traumatic. Therefore, implantation of edentulous jaws takes a different approach. There are two main methods:

All-On-4 implantation. Only 4 artificial roots are implanted per jaw. After that, 10-12 crowns are attached to the implants. To calculate exactly where to place the artificial roots, a computer scan is performed and a 3D model is made. This type of dental implantation is suitable if the bone loss due to jaw atrophy is small.
All-On-6 implantation. The principle of this technique is similar. Only crowns are fixed on 6 implants. Due to the fact that there are 6 implants, the “stability” of artificial teeth is increased. This type of implantation is suitable in cases where bone atrophy is already quite pronounced.

Each method of implantation has its own indications and contraindications, nuances of execution. Your dentist will help you to choose the method that is ideally suited for you.

TYPES OF IMPLANTATION ACCORDING TO THE TERMS OF EXECUTION

Depending on the method of implant placement, it may take several weeks, months or just a couple of days to restore a tooth.

CLASSIC BIPHASIC TECHNIQUE

This technique is considered the gold standard and is suitable for almost all patients. It is performed in two phases. First, the dentist cuts the gum, places the titanium implant and sutures it in place. After 10-14 days, the sutures are removed, and then wait for the artificial root to take root. Gradually, bone cells grow into the surface of the implant and securely fix it. This usually takes 4-6 months.

The time frame depends on the type and size of the implant and the individual characteristics of the body. When the artificial root has taken root, a crown is placed on it. If there is not enough bone tissue in the root due to atrophy, it is augmented. This is done with the help of an operation called a sinus elevator.

The main disadvantage of this technique is a very long interval between the installation of the implant and the crown. Thanks to the development of dentistry and the emergence of new varieties of implants, the classical technique has been modernized. This is how the following type of implantation came into being.

EXPRESS IMPLANTATION OR ONE-STAGE TECHNIQUE

It is excellent in cases where the implant is placed immediately after tooth extraction. It is placed directly on the root without cutting the gum. This helps to save time and minimize the number of interventions. After 1-2 hours, the patient leaves the dentist’s office with the implant and crown in place.

This implant technique is suitable in such cases:

• there is enough bone tissue for implantation and there are no signs of bone atrophy;
• there is no inflammation or infection of the gum;
• the neighboring teeth are healthy.

In one-stage implantation, classical implants, which consist of an artificial root and crown, and so-called monoblocs – one-piece non-disposable structures – can be used.

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