Missing Tooth@teeth???What should i do???

Figure above showed a case of dental implant.

What are dental implants?
An alternative to dentures, dental implants (small dental appliances that are inserted into the upper and lower jaws) help to restore the mouth that has little or no non-restorable teeth. Dental implants are slowly replacing dentures used by some people, as they provide many advantages of traditional dentures.

Advantages of implants over dentures:

For some people, particularly persons with loose or poor fitting dentures due to flat ridges, or persons with multiple missing teeth who need support for crowns and bridges, implants may be considered a more appropriate alternative to fix the appearance of missing teeth than dentures. According to the American Academy of Implant Prosthodontics, implants help to accomplish the following:
1.reduce movement of dentures, bridges, and/or crowns
2.facilitate proper chewing
3.provide support and improved stability for removable dentures or fixed bridge work
4.approximate the "feel" of natural teeth better than dentures
5.promote "denture self-confidence", as speech and appearance are often improved

Who are likely candidates for implants?

There are many variables to be considered before placing an implant:
1.the patient must be healthy
2.healing abilities affected by a disease may affect the successfulness of an implant
3.a proper diagnosis must be made before an implant can be placed
4.placement and technique is specific to each individual candidate
5.to further prevent complications, the implant(s) must be treated properly by the patient and the dentist
6.heavy smoking and drinking may affect the successfulness of an implant

What are the different types of dental implants?

There are many different types of dental implants from which to choose, including:
1. an artificial bone substitute

This type of implant involves a synthetic bone substitute being fitted on top of the bone to help rebuild the shrinking ridge and provide sturdy support for dentures. Because it is made of the same type of mineral found in natural bone, this type of implant bonds to the existing jaw bone.
2. endosteal implants

This type of implant is inserted into the jaw bone to serve as the tooth's root.
3. subperiosteal implants

This type of implant, usually an option for persons who can no longer wear conventional dentures, involves a specially-designed implant that fits directly on the existing bone.
Dental implants may either be inserted by a dentist specially training in implantology, or by an oral surgeon in a hospital.

Fluoride & Caries

Figure: Severe carious teeth

Over 50 years of extensive research throughout the world has consistentlydemonstrated the safety and efficacy of fluoride in preventing dental decay. Thescientific basis for the use of fluoride and its safety has been accepted by numerousscientific bodies, expert groups and Government agencies. The use of fluoride hasresulted in a substantial decline in the incidence and prevalence of dental decay andhas improved the quality of life for millions of people.

How Fluoride Inhibits Caries

The original investigations into the role of fluoride in the prevention of dental decaylinked its mode of action to its presence and concentration in the water supply. Itwas assumed that the beneficial effect of fluoride related to its systemic effect instrengthening tooth enamel during development.It has now become clear that the constant supply of appropriate levels of fluoride inthe mouth is the most important factor, as the presence of low levels of fluorideinhibits demineralisation and encourages remineralisation of the tooth enamel duringthe dental decay process.These findings are of profound importance with regard to the use of fluoride as apreventive or therapeutic measure. They have confirmed that the topical applicationof fluoride, or indeed any means of maintaining an adequate concentration of fluoridein the mouth, is of central importance in preventing dental decay.

Delivery systems for fluoride

Fluoridation of water supplies

Fluoridation of water supplies, where possible, remains the most effective publichealth measure for the prevention and treatment of dental decay. This is attributableto the fact that water is a dietary component required and used by everyone andtherefore benefits all sectors of the community. The only limitations to its use are areliable and controllable water supply, which almost invariably means a centralisedpiped source of water.The availability of fluoride from other sources needs to be known in order todetermine the most appropriate water fluoride levels for a given population orgeographical area.. Recommendations for the concentration of fluoride in waterdepend primarily on water consumption, which may be effected by climate. Inaddition, local cultural or dietary practices should also be taken into account.

Fluoridated salt

Administration of fluoride via salt intake is an alternative where the local situation isnot suitable for water fluoridation. Studies have produced consistent data indicatingits effectiveness in reducing dental decay. The production of fluoridated salt for aparticular country or geographical area should be centralised with strong technicalsupport to ensure controlled production.Concentration of fluoride in salt must be based on studies of salt intake and theavailability of fluoride from other sources. The fluoride concentration should appearon the salt packaging.

Fluoridated milk

Fluoridated milk has been used as a fluoride source, especially for young childrenthrough school programmes. A number of studies have shown it to be effective.However it has had limited exposure as a public health measure.

Fluoride-Containing Dentifrices

Of all the delivery systems in use at the present time, fluoride dentifrices have beenthe subject of the most comprehensive testing. A wide range of well-controlledstudies has been carried out and almost all of these have demonstratedconsiderable reductions in dental decay resulting in greatly improved oral health.Fluoride dentifrices are therefore a most important public health measure and effortsshould be made to extend their use.Excessive swallowing of toothpaste by young children may result in an increase inthe prevalence of very mild dental fluorosis (enamel opacities). In order to reducethis possibility the ingestion of toothpaste by children should be minimised. In someregions of the world low concentration fluoride-containing dentifrices (550ppmfluoride), especially for children, are available. There is conflicting evidence of theireffectiveness in reducing dental decay.Dentifrices should be used at least twice per day with a minimum amount of waterused to rinse the mouth after brushingDentifrice containers must display the fluoride concentration and a notice thatchildren under 6 years of age should be supervised during brushing, and only use asmall amount (e.g. pea-sized portion) of toothpaste.

Fluoride Supplements

Fluoride tablets may be recommended for at-risk individual patients and can also beconsidered for general use in at-risk groups in the community when other fluoridesources are not available. The effectiveness of fluoride tablets is not as clearlydocumented as other delivery systems. In view of the recognition of the importanceof the topical effect of fluoride it is recommended that supplements should besucked, chewed or dissolved in the mouth before being swallowed. There is also thepossibility of an increased risk of opacities/ fluorosis if supplements are usedinappropriately.Dosage must take into account local fluoride availability particularly in the watersupply. Dosage schedules should, where available, be consulted. There are severalnational dosage schedules available which differ somewhat in theirrecommendations. These must be monitored carefully and updated regularly in thelight of other sources of fluoride.

Fluoride Mouthrinses

In at risk individuals and populations fluoride mouthrinses may be an effectivemeasure. Mouthrinses can be used on a daily basis or at other intervals as dictatedby local needs. Fluoride mouthrinsing is not recommended for children under sixyears of age.Commercially available fluoride mouthrinses intended for individual use have beendemonstrated to be effective and should be used according to the specific needs ofthe individual.

Professionally applied gels

Professionally applied gels are indicated for individuals at-risk of dental decay.Concentrations are usually high. In view of this they must be handled with care.

Fluoride Varnishes

Fluoride varnishes are indicated for individuals at-risk of dental decay or for patient’sat increased risk due to dental or medical treatment.Fluoride exposure from multiple sources

Fluorides are found naturally throughout the world.

They are present to some extentin all foods and waters so that all humans ingest some fluoride. Fluoride has become more available via food and drink, fluoridated water, dentifrices,mouthwashes etc. This can be extremely beneficial in terms of the prevention of dental decay. It can also increase the risk of the milder forms of dentalopacities/fluorosis. Because of this there should be a co-ordinated approach tofluoride delivery. It is imperative that fluoride availability from all sources is takeninto account before embarking on a specific course of fluoride treatment.

Health risk assessment

It is clear from a vast amount of scientific evidence that, if used properly, and at theconcentrations appropriate for the prevention of dental decay, fluoride is safe andeffective. However enamel opacities / fluorosis can be caused by excessive fluorideingestion during the pre-eruptive development of teeth. At the fluoride levels usedto prevent decay opacities/fluorosis only occur in a relatively small proportion of thepopulation and the changes are very mild and are primarily of aesthetic interest.Recent studies have shown that the public generally do not notice or find objectionable these minor changes on teeth.Provided that levels of intake are carefully monitored, fluoride is considered to be amost important public health measure in maintaining oral health.

adapted from FDI Statement Fluoride and Dental Caries June 2000.

Online Degree Anyone??

Nowadays..you can do almost everything from the internet...except dental check up i guess...Well...i knew that in dentistry, you can also do your postgraduate via online from university in UK. On of the course that are available is Master In Clinical Dentistry. I actually plan to do my post grad in paediatric dentistry. However..in Malaysia i have to work with the government for 3 years.
Ok..so, what are the benefit of an online study???

1. Convenience - It is possible to study entire courses all from the convenience of your own home, public libraries or workplace. Online course information, tutors and fellow students can be accessed at any time using e-mail or FirstClass. Assessment can be submitted at any time.
2. Up to date Information - The Internet is very quick to update. So you can be sure information in your Online Course Study Guides is the latest, most relevant information
3. Flexibility - The study sites have been designed to be easily navigated. You are able to study Online in the order you choose.
4.Totally self-paced - Some Online degree courses are designed to be entirely self paced. The amount of information learnt, when assessment is taken, how much you network with other students, all these components can be arranged for your individual needs, and around your current commitments. The self-paced Online degree nature is very important for mature aged students, who have many commitments that can change from week to week. Easy, fast and cheap communication with your teachers, class supervisors and fellow students via e-mail, TAFEVC or FirstClass.
5. Convenient communication - You don’t have to organise communication around the availability of your teacher being on-site at the Institute. Online Degrees are convenient.

so...what are the differences between distant learning and online study???
Both distance and online education provide you flexibility for where and when you study. However, studying online is totally interactive with immediate correction of the exercises.Studying online offers you additional opportunities for interaction through email, discussion boards and chat rooms, enabling you to communicate with your personal tutor and thereby enchancing the learning experience.
Using Online Degrees Today, you can prepare for a successful career in the online subject of your choice. Whether you are interested in online degrees in the areas of Business, Accounting, Technology, Nursing, Criminal Justice, Web Design and more, there is a online degree education program available. Online Degrees available for Associates, Bachelors, Masters & Certificate programs in most fields.

well..i guess that should cover the basic.For more information, please visit www.online-degrees-today.com

Pregnancy & Oral health

Having a baby is a happy event. However every part of a women's body is affected by pregnancy including the teeth and gums. Changes in a women's body especially hormonal changes may affect her oral health as the altered level of hormones ( oestrogens and progesterones ) may make it easier for bacteria to grow which can lead to gum problems. Many women and their dentists have reported this connection for years. More research is needed to explain what exactly is going on but there is little dispute that some women's oral health suffers during menstruations, in pregnancy, menopause and oral contraceptive use. The old wives tale of "losing a tooth per pregnancy" does not hold because with proper care and attention, a women can maintain a healthy dentition for a lifetime


Apart from other bodily changes directly related to pregnancy, 60 to 75% of pregnant women will experience increased gingivitis, beginning in the second or third month of pregnancy, which increases in severity through the eight months and begins to decrease in the ninth month. This condition known as pregnancy gingivitis is characterized by swelling, bleeding and redness in the gum in response to only small amounts of plaque or calculus. In addition the pyogenic granuloma ( pregnancy epulis or pregnancy tumour ) of pregnancy is well recognised. There are growths at the gum margins which sometimes enlarge to substantial size and bleeds easily on trauma necessitating surgical removal.
Morning sickness, food cravings and general malaise during the first Trimester can result in poor oral health resulting in fresh caries in certain susceptible teeth. Pregnancy - related oral care problems can be prevented or controlled by good oral hygiene habits. Notify your dentist when you find out that you are pregnant because the dentist may schedule more frequent cleanings, reinforce brushing and flossing habits or recommend products like oral irrigation or mouth rinses that will help ensure you are getting a good cleaning at home.
It is advisable to reschedule any elective medical or dental treatment during the first trimester of pregnancy where the body systems and organs of the foetus is starting to form. To protect you and the foetus from unnecessary drugs or x-rays, your dentist can schedule elective procedures during the second trimester where the foetus is less vulnerable ( and you are likely to be more comfortable ) than in the late stages of pregnancy. Should there be a history of miscarriage it may be advisable to delay treatment ( within reason ) until after you deliver. If there's an emergency, dental X-rays are permissible because of the low doses of radiation used. Wearing a lead apron will further insulate the baby from exposure. Request your dentist to use ass little local anaesthetic as possible to limit the foetus exposure to chemical and to substitute safer alternative drugs known to be detrimental to the developing foetus. Studies have shown that a mother-to-be's nutrition is important to the baby's oral and facial development. A pregnant women's diet should include sufficient amounts of nutrients especially Vitamin A, C and D with Calcium, Phosphorus and the recommended amount of protein. This is taken over and above a normal balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and fibre. A recent study indicated that gum infections in a pregnant woman may lead to a seven fold increase in the risk of delivering a premature low birth weight baby. There is a suggestion that untreated periodontal disease may account for a large number of unexplained premature deliveries.



Most patient with neglected mouths including some pregnant women blame their poor oral condition with the following common excuses.
a)
I don't have time for the whole brush-and-floss routine.
b)
My mouth hurts when I brush.
c)
I am too embarrassed to brush in publish rest room after lunch. Flossing hurts and is too awkward for me.
d)
The taste of toothpaste turns my stomach.
e)
I don't feel well and I have jaw pain that prevents me from opening wide enough to floss and brush my back teeth.
Please see your dentist who will resolve all these issues in no time at all

Yucks...I have yellowish teeth!!!

Fig 1: severe tooth discolouration Fig 2: after veneer placement


Why do my teeth have stains and discolorations?
Most stains are caused by age, tobacco, coffee, or tea. Other types of stains can be caused by antibiotics, such as tetracycline; or too much fluoride.
What treatments are used for stained teeth?
Ask your oral health care professional about tooth-whitening options. They include a number of over-the-counter whitening systems, whitening toothpastes, and the latest high-tech option--laser tooth whitening. For maximum whitening, experts agree that peroxide is usually the way to go.
Supervised bleaching procedures that are done in-office and at-home have become among the most popular treatment options. In some cases, the procedure is performed entirely in the office, using a light or heat source to speed up the bleaching process. In other cases, an oral health care professional gets the procedure started during an office visit and then gives you what you need to complete it at home. Still another popular procedure is one that you complete entirely at home.
At-home procedures, sometimes called nightguard vital bleaching, consist of placing a bleaching solution, usually a peroxide mixture, in a tray (nightguard) that has been custom fitted for your mouth by an oral health care professional. The bleaching solutions may vary in potency and may be worn for an hour, or throughout the night. Your oral health care professional can advise you on the appropriate type of application and the length of time needed to whiten your teeth, based on the severity of tooth discoloration and your specific needs.
How effective are bleaching systems?
Bleaching is effective in lightning most stains caused by age, tobacco, coffee, and tea. Based on clinical studies, 96 percent of patients with these kinds of stains experience some lightening effect. Other types of stains, such as those produced by tetracycline use or fluorosis (too much fluoride), respond to bleaching less reliably. And one cosmetic dentist points out that bleaching systems are not fully predictable. If you have a tooth-color filling when your teeth are bleached, the filling will stay yellow dental restorations do not change color when tooth whitener is applied.
Are there any side effects to tooth bleaching?
In some studies, patients have experienced uncomfortable short-term side effects when having teeth bleached. Hydrogen peroxide can increase temperature sensitivity in the teeth, particularly at higher concentrations, and nightguards often cause gum irritation. And overzealous use of over-the-counter home bleaching products can wear away tooth enamel, especially with solutions that contain acid. Therefore, bleaching is a procedure best done under the care of an oral health care professional. Still, the general health risks of bleaching systems are minimal as far as your body is concerned. Applications are controlled so that you don't swallow hydrogen peroxide.
What's Available?

While research continues into all types of bleaching systems, tooth bleaching is sure to continue to grow in popularity. Here's a selection of what's currently available.
1. At-home bleaching kitshe most popular whitening option. Mouth trays are usually made in one office visit, and your oral health care professional will provide a whitening brand suitable to your needs. Some trays are worn for an hour, others through the night. Kits range from price from $300 to $500.

2. Bonding composite resin that is molded onto the teeth to change their color and to reshape them. The resin material can stain and chip over time. Bonding can usually be done in one office visit for $300-$700 per tooth.

3. Porcelain veneers?these shell-like facings can be bonded onto stained teeth. They are used to reshape and/or lengthen teeth as well as to whiten. Veneers require at least two office visits and cost $700 to $1,200 per tooth.

4. Whitening Toothpastes?While some whitening toothpastes effectively keep the teeth cleaner and, therefore, looking whiter, some are more abrasive than others. The stronger toothpastes rely on abrasion to remove external stains as opposed to actually changing the color of teeth. The key is to study a product's ingredients, look at your teeth to see if it changes their color, and consult your oral health care professional for customized advice.

Ipod

I definitely want an iPod....Santa...Can u hear me????

Cancer in the mouth???Is it possible???

Mouth cancer can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks and throat. There are 4,400 new cases and 1,700 deaths every year in the UK, and those figures are increasing each year. Survival chances are much improved with early detection, so the number of deaths could be greatly reduced if people were more aware of the symptoms. The first sign of mouth cancer is often a non-healing mouth ulcer or a red or white patch in the mouth. It is important that you examine your own mouth on a regular basis. If you have a mouth ulcer that hasn’t healed after three weeks, or you notice any unusual changes in your mouth you should visit your dentist as soon as possible for an examination. Mouth cancer is most common in people over 40 who smoke or drink alcohol. It is also twice as likely to strike men as women. However, the number of young people and women developing the condition has been increasing in recent years. You can cut your risk of developing mouth cancer by living a healthy lifestyle.If mouth cancer is diagnosed in its early stages it can respond well to treatment and the chances of a complete cure are good. This is why regular dental check-ups are so important.

FAQ about Mouth Cancer

What is mouth cancer?
Most people have heard of cancer affecting parts of the body such as the lungs or breasts. However, cancer can occur in the mouth, where the disease can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks and throat.

Who can be affected by mouth cancer?
Anyone can be affected by mouth cancer, whether they have their own teeth or not. Mouth cancers are more common in people over 40, particularly men. However, research has shown that mouth cancer is becoming more common in younger patients and in women. There are, on average, over 4,300 new cases of mouth cancer diagnosed in the UK each year. The number of new cases of mouth cancer is on the increase.

Do people die from mouth cancer?
Yes. Nearly 1,700 people in the UK die from mouth cancer every year. Many of these deaths could be prevented if the cancer was caught early enough. As it is, people with mouth cancer are more likely to die than those having cervical cancer or melanoma skin cancer.

What can cause mouth cancer?
Most cases of mouth cancer are linked to tobacco and alcohol. Cigarette, cigar and pipe smoking are the main forms of tobacco use in the UK. However, the traditional ethnic habits of chewing tobacco, betel quid, gutkha and paan are particularly dangerous. Alcohol increases the risk of mouth cancer, and if tobacco and alcohol are consumed together the risk is even greater. Over-exposure to sunlight can also increase the risk of cancer of the lips.

What are the signs of mouth cancer?
Mouth cancer can appear in different forms and can affect all parts of the mouth, tongue and lips. Mouth cancer can appear as a painless mouth ulcer that does not heal normally. A white or red patch in the mouth can also develop into a cancer. It is important to visit your dentist if these areas do not heal within two weeks.

How can mouth cancer be detected early?
Mouth cancer can often be spotted in its early stages by your dentist during a thorough mouth examination. If mouth cancer is recognised early, then the chances of a cure are good. Many people with mouth cancer go to their dentist or doctor too late.

What is involved in a full check-up of the mouth?
The dentist examines the inside of your mouth and your tongue with the help of a small mirror. Remember, your dentist is able to see parts of your mouth that you cannot see easily yourself.

What happens if my dentist finds a problem?
If your dentist finds something unusual or abnormal they will refer you to a consultant at the local hospital, who will carry out a thorough examination of your mouth and throat. A small sample of the cells may be gathered from the area (a biopsy), and these cells will be examined under the microscope to see what is wrong.

What happens next?
If the cells are cancerous, more tests will be carried out. These may include overall health checks, blood tests, x-rays or scans. These tests will decide what course of treatment is needed.

Can mouth cancer be treated?
If mouth cancer is spotted early, the chances of a complete cure are good, and the smaller the area or ulcer the better the chance of a cure. However, too many people come forward too late, because they do not visit their dentist for regular examinations.

How can I make sure that my mouth stays healthy?
• It is important to visit your dentist at least once a year, even if you wear dentures. This is especially important if you smoke and drink alcohol.• When brushing your teeth, look out for any changes in your mouth, and report any red or white patches, or ulcers, that have not cleared up within two weeks.• When exposed to the sun, be sure to use a good protective sun cream, and put the correct type of barrier cream on your lips. • A good diet, rich in vitamins A, C and E, provides protection against the development of mouth cancer. Plenty of fruit and vegetables help the body to protect itself, in general, from most cancers. • Cut down on your smoking and drinking. Regular visits to your dentist could save your life.

Ouch.....

Once upon a time, if you had a tooth with a diseased nerve, you'd probably lose that tooth. Today, with a special dental procedure called a root canal therapy you may save that tooth. Inside each tooth is the pulp which provides nutrients and nerves to the tooth, it runs like a thread down through the root. When the pulp is diseased or injured, the pulp tissue dies. If you don't remove it, your tooth gets infected and you could lose it. After the dentist removes the pulp, the root canal is cleaned and sealed off to protect it. Then your dentist places a crown over the tooth to help make it stronger.
Most of the time, a root canal is a relatively simple procedure with little or no discomfort involving one to three visits. Best of all, it can save your tooth and your smile!
Figure A is when infection reaches the root canal system.Figure B is the procedure which the dentist drill the tooth to drain the pus and Figure C is the filling for the tooth after completion of RCT.
The procedure
Here is what you can expect when you schedule a root canal treatment.
On the initial visit:Local anesthetic usually is given, to maintainpatient comfort
The affected tooth is isolated from saliva with arubberlike sheet called a dam.An opening is made through the crown of thetooth. The pulp is removed, and then the root iscleaned and shaped. Medication may be added tothe pulp chamber and root canal(s) to help eliminatebacteria.A temporary filling is placed in the crownopening to keepsaliva out. Antibioticsmay be prescribedif an infectionis present andhas spread beyondthe end of theroot(s).On the nextvisit:The temporaryfilling is removed.The root canalis filled and permanentlysealed.(A metal or plasticrod or post may beplaced in the rootcanal for structuralsupport.)If an endodontistperforms theprocedure, he orshe usually willsend you back to your general dentist for preparationof a crown to be placed on the tooth. Crownsare made from a variety of materials, dependingon the location of the tooth, the color of the toothand the amount of natural tooth remaining. Discusswith your dentist which option is best foryou.THE REST IS UP TO YOUThe restored tooth can remain healthy as long asits roots are nourished by the surrounding tissues.Good oral hygiene at home and regulardental visits can help prevent tooth decay andgum disease. If you take good care of it, therestored tooth could last a lifetime.

Thinking of Getting Braces

Top: After braces treatment

Before braces treatment











Can you be too old for braces?
There is no age limit for braces. As long as you have good periodontal health, braces can be used to straighten your teeth and correct your bite. More people over age 30 are getting braces today than ever before. Most ArchWired readers are between the ages of 30 and 55!
What is a malocclusion?
Occlusion is another word for your bite -- how the teeth in your top and bottom jaw meet with each other. So, a malocclusion means a bad bite -- a bite with problems.
What are the "classes" of malocclusion?
Malocclusion is most often caused by hereditary factors such as an abnormal relationship between the size of the teeth and the size of the jaws. Malocclusion may also result from missing teeth or habits such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting.
Malocclusions are classified based on the relationship of the maxillary (upper jaw) and mandibular (lower jaw) first permanent molars.
There are three basic classes of malocclusion, Class I, Class II, and Class III:

Class I malocclusion involves crowding, spacing, or overlapping of the teeth. In this classification the upper jaw is in a normal relationship to the lower jaw; that is, neither jaw protrudes.

Class II malocclusion occurs when the bottom jaw is in a more posterior (backward) position than normal. The top teeth appear to protrude out over the lower teeth. One example of this type of malocclusion is often referred to as "buck" teeth.

Class III malocclusion occurs when the lower jaw is in a more anterior (forward) position than normal. The lower teeth protrude out beyond the upper teeth. This is often the most difficult type of malocclusion to correct.
How much do braces cost?
The average cost for a full set of braces in a typical two-year treatment is about $5,000 US. The cost varies depending on where you live. Major metropolitan areas tend to be slightly higher in cost than rural areas. Generally, metal braces cost less than ceramic. Invisalign treatment can be just as costly as traditional braces, and sometimes is even slightly more expensive.
Can I get braces just on the top or bottom?
That depends on your case. Orthodontics isn't just about making your teeth straight or making them look better. Most dentists and orthodontists take a lot of things into consideration when recommending treatment, such as:
1.how the top and bottom teeth meet with each other (i.e., your bite)
2.how well you can chew your food
3.whether you have a tongue thrust problem
4.whether extraction or surgery will be necessary to correct your problems
5.whether you will need any appliances in your treatment, such as a palate expander or headgear (yes, some adults do wear headgear)
So you see, it isn't just a matter of making your teeth look pretty. There are lot of other factors to take into consideration. This is why you sometimes need a full set of braces, even if you think that you only need them on top or bottom. Of course, some people are lucky. Their bites are good and perhaps they only need a bit of straightening. People in this position often can get braces only on top or bottom
When will I begin to see changes in my teeth after the braces are put on?
According to a recent ArchWired poll, most people begin see changes in their teeth in the first 2 to 6 weeks of treatment.
Should I get teeth extracted as part of my orthodontic treatment?
It depends on your specific case. When we are young and our jaws are still growing, dentists/orthodontists can work with our growth to straighten the teeth without extraction.
But once we are adults, dentists are limited to what is already in place. If your orthodontist recommends extraction, it may be wise to get at least one more (if not two more) opinions before going through with the procedure -- once the teeth are gone, they're gone! Sometimes, depending on your unique case, extraction may be the only way to successfully straighten your teeth and correct your bite.
How long does it take to close gaps between teeth after an extraction?
That depends on your unique physiology. Gaps in teeth on the lower jaw tend to close slower than on the upper jaw. It can take anywhere from a few months to a year to close extraction gaps.

Types of gum diseases

Well...just like other diseases, gum disease also consist of a few types. There are many forms of periodontal disease. The most common ones include the following.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the mildest form of periodontal disease. It causes the gums to become red, swollen, and bleed easily. There is usually little or no discomfort at this stage. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good at home oral care.
Aggressive Periodontitis
A form of periodontitis that occurs in patients who are otherwise clinically healthy. Common features include rapid attachment loss and bone destruction and familial aggregation.
Chronic Periodontitis
A form of periodontal disease resulting in inflammation within the supporting tissues of the teeth, progressive attachment and bone loss and is characterized by pocket formation and/or recession of the gingiva. It is recognized as the most frequently occurring form of periodontitis. It is prevalent in adults, but can occur at any age. Progression of attachment loss usually occurs slowly, but periods of rapid progression can occur.
Periodontitis as a Manifestation of Systemic Diseases
Periodontititis, often with onset at a young age, associated with one of several systemic diseases, such as diabetes.
Necrotizing Periodontal Diseases
An infection characterized by necrosis of gingival tissues, periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. These lesions are most commonly observed in individuals with systemic conditions including, but not limited to, HIV infection, malnutrition and immunosuppression.
Figure on the left shows the differernces between healthy gums (a) and gum with disease (b). So remember..take care your oral hygiene to prevent gum disease!!!

Proper brushing technique

Proper Brushing
Proper brushing is essential for cleaning teeth and gums effectively. Use a toothbrush with soft, nylon, round-ended bristles that will not scratch and irritate teeth or damage gums.
1.Place bristles along the gumline at a 45-degree angle. Bristles should contact both the tooth surface and the gumline.

2.Gently brush the outer tooth surfaces of 2-3 teeth using a vibrating back & forth rolling motion. Move brush to the next group of 2-3 teeth and repeat.

3.Maintain a 45-degree angle with bristles contacting the tooth surface and gumline. Gently brush using back, forth, and rolling motion along all of the inner tooth surfaces.

4.Tilt brush vertically behind the front teeth. Make several up & down strokes using the front half of the brush.

5.Place the brush against the biting surface of the teeth & use a gentle back & forth scrubbing motion. Brush the tongue from back to front to remove odor-producing bacteria.

3G craze

Nowadays..people are into these high tech handphone that has multifunction.The latest craze in Malaysia i guess is the 3G phone.I myself admit that fascinated with these handphones.However..most of the 3G enabled phone that are currently in the market are quite huge and heavy for a girl i must say...Thank god..samsung recently just released their 3G enabled phone i.e SGH-Z500.This HP has full 3G functions i.e video telephone,video streaming and video messaging..minus the bulkyness and weigh of other powered 3G phone.The best part about this HP is that it not only just good looking but have all the neccesary fuction.It also light weight at 95g,with dual camera,64 polyphonic and mp3 ringtones,bluetooth techonology and with 50MB memory.It is also affordable as it is sold at RM 1,2999 ( about $350) here in Malaysia.
Another handphone that worth notice is the Sony Ericsson walkman phone.W600i Walkman?is a mobile phone for music lovers. FM radio, an advanced digital music player inside and everything you need to enjoy your music on the move. CD ripping software is included in the kit to get your favorite songs into your phone. Drag and drop using Disc2Phone? Swivel-action W600i has a 1.8?color screen for best possible video viewing and gaming experience and dedicated gaming buttons for fast and action-packed 3D gaming on the go. When you want to catch some action, W600i is also an impressive 1.3 megapixel camera with video recording and digital camera menus.Key feature are.... Walkman?media playerMega Bass?and stereo widening Stereo headset, USB cable and Applications Suite supplied 1.3 megapixel camera Bluetooth,infra red,USB support
Not only that it has 256MB memory but u can upgrade it because this HP uses sony memory stick.This HP is perfect for music lover like me.However..the only drawback is that it is quite bulky and heavy..