Author: lynxbravo

Crossbite: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Do you feel your teeth are messed up? You could be having a crossbite. Crossbite, also known as an underbite, is a type of malocclusion, or bad bite, that causes rows of teeth to overlap improperly. Crossbite is common in both children and adults. You may have trouble chewing food, or your dentist may have mentioned it during a check-up. No matter your age, there are several options for correcting a crossbite. 

What exactly is a crossbite? 

When you bite, your lower teeth cover one or more of your upper teeth, which is known as a crossbite. In short, it is the irregular contact between the upper and lower teeth. This intermittent contact can occur in a variety of locations throughout the mouth. 

Crossbites are classified into two types, 

Anterior Crossbites: They occur when the lower front teeth (canine and incisors) protrude further than the upper front teeth. Crossbites can be treated with orthodontics, but for severe cases in adults, some crossbites require a combination of orthodontics and surgery to set back the lower jaw and achieve optimal results. 

Posterior crossbites: They are a type of improper back tooth bite in which the lower back teeth (the premolars and molars) protrude further than the upper back teeth. An expander, a common orthodontic appliance, can be used to correct posterior crossbites. 

Causes 

Crossbites can be inherited, but they can also be acquired. Crossbites in children can result from permanent teeth emerging before all baby teeth have fallen out. If this happens, the new teeth cannot grow properly, resulting in misalignment issues. 

It can be caused by various other factors like thumb-sucking, tongue-thrusting, and prolonged pacifier or bottle use. 

Symptoms and Risks 

A crossbite can cause headaches, jaw pain, and tooth decay. Crossbites can also impact the appearance of your teeth and lips. A crossbite in the back teeth can cause teeth grinding, abnormal facial development, and jaw problems. If left untreated, it could cause speech impediments, temporomandibular disorder (TMD), gum diseases, or tooth loss. 

Treatments 

Most crossbites can be corrected by adjusting the teeth or jaw with orthodontic treatments and appliances. Most dentists agree that the best time to fix a crossbite is when you are young. Adults can also be treated, but the earlier the crossbite is detected and treated, the better.  

Each case is unique and necessitates an examination to determine the best treatment. There are several options for treatment for correcting a crossbite: 

    • Removable Palatal Expander 
    • Braces 
    • Retainers 
    • Dental Restorations (bonding, capping) 
    • Teeth extraction 
    • Headgear 
    • In severe cases, surgery 

Many orthodontic professionals use a combination of expanders and braces therapy. The expanders work to create the proper amount of space between the teeth so the bites are correctly aligned throughout the mouth. A removable expander that is only worn at night may be prescribed in adults. However, everyone’s condition is different and will require a treatment strategy.  

As said before, untreated crossbites can lead to more severe health problems in the future. Make an appointment with Bravo! Dental today to correct your bite! The best place to begin is to speak with your dentist about crossbite correction and treatment options for you or your child. 

Everything you need to know about sensitive teeth

Have you ever experienced pain or discomfort after eating a scoop of ice cream or a spoonful of hot soup? Don’t be troubled! Many people experience such symptoms after consuming cold or hot foods. It is known as dentin hypersensitivity or tooth sensitivity. The sensitivity can be either chronic or temporary. It can affect one tooth, several teeth, or all of the teeth at the same time.  

In this blog you’ll get to know everything about sensitive teeth and how to treat it. 

 Symptoms of teeth sensitivity 

Here are a few symptoms that may help you become aware of the sensitivity and take preventive measures as soon as possible. 

  • Spontaneous tooth pain with no apparent cause. 
  • Tooth sensitivity particularly on a single tooth. 
  • Milder pain sharply raising suddenly. 
  • Staining on your teeth’s surface. 
  • Pain while biting or chewing. 

 Triggering factors of unexpected teeth sensitivity 

Many factors can contribute to the onset of sensitive teeth, such as: 

  1. Brushing too hard: Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down enamel and expose dentin over time. It can also lead to gum recession.
  2. Gum disease: Sensitivity may result from the loss of supporting ligaments, exposing the root surface and leading directly to the tooth’s nerve.
  3. Cracked teeth: Bacteria from plaque can enter the pulp of a chipped or broken tooth, causing inflammation.
  4. Teeth whitening products: These are significant contributors to tooth sensitivity. Use only dentist-suggested products.
  5. Age: You are likely to experience teeth sensitivity between the ages of 25 and 30.
  6. Plaque build-up: Cavities on the root surfaces can start causing sensitivity.
  7. Mouthwash: Some acid containing mouthwashes can aggravate tooth sensitivity. Discuss with a dentist if a neutral fluoride mouthwash can help you with your dentin sensitivity.
  8. Acidic foods: Consuming foods with a high acid content regularly, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, pickles, and tea, can cause enamel erosion.
  9. Recent dental procedures: Fillings, teeth cleanings, and dental restoration placement can all cause sensitive teeth.
  10. Bruxism: Grinding or clenching your teeth can wear down the enamel. 

 Treatments for teeth sensitivity 

 Use desensitizing toothpaste and fluoride mouthwash to reduce pain associated with sensitive teeth after several applications. Consult your dentist to determine which product is best for you. Exposed root surfaces can occasionally be treated by applying bonding resin to the sensitive root surfaces. Maintaining a proper oral hygiene regimen is always advisable. Wearing a mouth guard can help if you tend to grind or clench your teeth at night. In the worst-case scenario, if other treatments are ineffective and your sensitive teeth are causing severe pain, your dentist may recommend a root canal. And above all visit your dentist regularly for professional exams, cleanings, and fluoride treatments. 

 If you have any of the above symptoms or have discomfort in your gums, feel free to get in touch with our dental experts at Bravo! Dental. We can assist you with your sensitive teeth and recommend the appropriate treatment. 

Don’t let your teeth sensitivity get in the way of experiencing the flavours of life 

The connection between oral problems and heart disease

It’s becoming more common to hear that good oral health is important for overall health. Most of us have periodontal or gum disease, which often goes undiagnosed. This could be because we avoid going to the dentist because our teeth feel fine. 

Recent research, however, suggests that there are two distinct links between oral health and heart disease. For starters, the study indicates that people with moderate or advanced gum disease are more likely to develop heart disease than those with healthy gums. Second, your oral health can provide doctors with early warning signs for various diseases and conditions, including heart disease. 

What is the connection between the heart and teeth? 

Bacteria and other germs from your mouth spread to other parts of your body via the bloodstream, thus connecting oral health and heart disease. When these bacteria enter the heart, they can attach to damaged tissue and cause inflammation. Endocarditis, an infection of the inner lining of the heart, can result from this. In addition, inflammation caused by oral bacteria can be linked to other cardiovascular conditions such as atherosclerosis (clogged arteries) and stroke. 

Who is at risk? 

Patients with chronic gum conditions such as gingivitis or advanced periodontal disease are at the highest risk of developing heart disease as a result of poor oral health, especially if the condition goes undiagnosed and untreated. Bacteria associated with gum infection live in the mouth and can enter the bloodstream, where they attach to blood vessels, increasing your risk of cardiovascular disease. Even if you don’t have visible gum inflammation, poor oral hygiene and plaque build-up put you at risk for gum disease. The bacteria can also enter your bloodstream, causing an increase in C-reactive protein, a marker for blood vessel inflammation. This can increase your chances of developing heart disease or having a stroke. 

Symptoms of oral condition: 

You may experience these few symptoms if you are having an oral condition; 

  • You may have gum disease if your gums are red, swollen, and sore to the touch. 
  • When you eat, brush, or floss, your gums bleed. 
  • Pus or other signs of infection are visible around the gums and teeth. 
  • Your gums appear to be pulling away from your teeth. 
  • You have bad breath on a regular basis or notice a bad taste in your mouth. 
  • Some of your teeth are loose or appear to be moving away from the others. 

Preventative measures 

The best way to avoid gum disease is to practice good oral hygiene and have regular dental examinations. Dentists recommend brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush that fits comfortably in your mouth and adequately reaches every tooth surface. You should also floss daily and schedule regular professional cleanings with your dentist. Above all, if you happen to find any abnormality in your teeth or gums, visit your dentist without delay at once. A regular dental check-up is highly recommended to maintain your oral health which in turn maintains your overall health. 

Book an appointment and talk to our dental experts at Bravo! Dental to ensure that your oral health is benefiting your overall health. Your heart counts on it! 

Do I need to go to the dentist while pregnant?

It’s an old wives’ tale that going to the dentist while pregnant is risky for the growing babies and mothers-to-be. In fact, the opposite is true: good dental hygiene is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle for everyone. It is absolutely essential to take good care of your teeth and gums while pregnant. Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that raise the probability of developing a gum disease, which can impact the health of your growing baby. 

Mothers with the most severe periodontal disease tend to give birth at the earliest, around 32 weeks. However, it is still not sure that treating gum disease lowers the risk of premature birth. Anyway, seeing a dentist during pregnancy is pivotal for your and your child’s health. 

Many pregnant women are concerned about the safety of dental care during pregnancy. It’s understandable; mothers want to do the best for their children, and there’s a lot of misinformation out there. 

Here are some pointers to maintaining good oral health before, during, and after pregnancy. 

Before Pregnancy 

Make an appointment with your dentist beforehand if you are planning to become pregnant. That way, your teeth can be professionally cleaned, your gum tissue can be thoroughly examined, and any oral health issues can be addressed before your pregnancy. 

During Pregnancy 

If you are pregnant, notify your dentist about your pregnancy and your medications. Dental care can be performed at any time during pregnancy. However, all elective dental procedures should be postponed until after the delivery. 

Dental X-rays can be taken while pregnant. To protect you and your baby, your dentist will use extreme caution, such as shielding your abdomen and thyroid. In addition, technological advancements have made X-rays much safer today than in previous decades. 

Don’t put off your dental check-up just because you’re pregnant. Regular exams are more important than ever before because pregnancy causes hormonal changes that increase your risk of pregnancy gingivitis. At some point during their pregnancy, 42.62% of pregnant women will develop gingivitis. If you already have severe gum disease, pregnancy can exacerbate it. 

Pay close attention to any changes in your gums while pregnant. If you experience tenderness, bleeding, or gum swelling during pregnancy, consult your dentist as soon as possible. 

If you have morning sickness and frequent vomiting, rinse your mouth with water or a mouth rinse. 

If morning sickness prevents you from brushing your teeth, switch to a bland-tasting toothpaste during pregnancy. Ask your dentist or hygienist for brand recommendations. 

Sugary snacks should be avoided. Cravings for sweets are common during pregnancy. Keep in mind, however, that the more frequently you snack, the more likely you will develop tooth decay. 

Consume a well-balanced diet. Around 3 months into the pregnancy, your baby’s first teeth appear. Healthy diets rich in dairy products, cheese, and yogurt are high in these minerals and beneficial to a baby’s developing teeth, gums, and bones. 

After Pregnancy 

If you had gum problems during pregnancy, see your dentist as soon as possible after delivery for a full oral health check. 

While some dental care will be limited during pregnancy, maintaining good oral health prior to or during pregnancy will help prevent emergencies with limited pain relief options and provide additional health benefits for the mother and baby. As the need for dental care for pregnant women can differ from person to person, it is suggested to consult your dentist, what’s the right time to visit for a dental checkup and follow their advice. If you are thinking about starting a family, make sure to book an appointment with our dental experts with our experts at Bravo! Dental. 

6 Proven Ways to Stop Gum Bleeding

Bleeding gums are extremely common, to the extent that 90% of the population can have Gingivitis (Gum problem that causes bleeding). 

Bleeding gums are one of the first signs of gum disease and serve as a warning sign that something needs to be changed in our oral health routine. However, just because your gums bleed seems normal doesn’t mean you should ignore it. Quite the contrary, in fact. That is why we have compiled six ways to prevent bleeding gums. 

Brush Twice a Day 

This is listed first for a reason. Brushing our teeth for two minutes twice a day with a doctor-recommended toothpaste is essential for gum health and helps protect against other oral diseases. Brush your teeth last thing at night and once more during the day for the best results. 

Use Interdental Brush or Floss 

Another critical piece of a good oral health routine is the use of interdental brushes or floss. This is because a toothbrush cannot reach the gaps between your teeth. It is essential to get into these areas as cavities can form, potentially causing gum problems. 

Apply an Ice Pack 

Hold a small ice pack or an ice cube against the bleeding gums for about 10 minutes to help relax the gums. Ice packs are very effective at reducing bleeding and swelling in the mouth caused by minor mouth injuries or gingivitis. 

Use Fluoride Mouthwash 

Fluoride mouthwash is beneficial to oral health because it aids in the removal of debris from the mouth. It also aids in the prevention of plaque build-up. Moreover, it can help to freshen our breath by killing the bacteria causing bad breath (halitosis). When selecting a mouthwash, make sure it contains fluoride to help protect your teeth throughout the day. 

Healthy Living 

This is important not only for bleeding gums but also for overall health. A healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables nourishes your body from inside out. When reading labels, remember that ‘no added sugar does not always imply that the product is sugar-free. It simply means that no additional sugar has been added and excludes the presence of naturally occurring sugars. Smoking and drinking alcohol are two lifestyle factors impacting your oral health. Smokers are more likely to develop gum disease. 

Go to the Dentist 

The dental office is the best place to go for any oral health issues, including bleeding gums. If your gums continue to bleed after 7-10 days, you mustn’t wait for your routine appointment and visit your dentist at once. A deep dental cleaning may be required to remove plaque and tartar and help heal gum. In addition, your doctor may prescribe lab work to rule out any vitamin deficiencies that could be causing gum bleeding. 

Healthy gums are necessary for healthy teeth. Studies have linked gum health to a lower risk of heart disease in recent years, so the benefits extend beyond our gum health. If you are experiencing discomfort in your gums or the bleeding has not stopped, then make your Bravo! Dental appointment right away. Say goodbye to gum pain! 

How to overcome your Dental Anxiety?

Are you afraid of visiting the dentist? You are not alone. In a global survey, 6 out of 10 participants reported having dental anxiety. Almost 4% of people say they have never seen a dentist, and 16% say they only do so in an emergency. It is, in fact, a global phenomenon. 

Regular dental visits are essential for keeping teeth and gums healthy. However, in general, needles, drills, and the dental environment can trigger dental anxiety. When dental anxiety is severe and causes irrational fear or avoidance of going to the dentist, it is known as Dental phobia or Odontophobia. 

Dental anxiety patients may experience the following symptoms: 

  • Sweating 
  • Palpitations or a racing heart 
  • Low blood pressure and the possibility of fainting 
  • Visible distress, crying, or panic 
  • Withdrawal, use of humor or aggression to mask anxiety. 
  • Sleeping difficulties, the night before the dental exam 
  • Suddenly finding it difficult to breathe 

Dental anxiety or phobia can have a detrimental effect on your oral health. How long can you avoid seeing a dentist? It is necessary to overcome your dental anxiety for your oral wellness. 

Before you try to overcome it, identify what makes visiting a dental office terrifying for you. Some of the most common reasons are: 

  • Fear of pain 
  • A traumatic dental experience  
  • Fear of injections or worry that it won’t work 
  • Fear of side effects 
  • Trust issues 
  • Helplessness and a sense of loss of control 
  • Embarrassment and loss of personal space 

However, the wonderful thing about phobias is that they can be overcome. Here are a few tips for coping with your dental anxiety. 

Express your concerns to your dentist: Being open about your fears allows your dentist to guide you through comfortable dental care, which can help to calm your nerves. 

Plan ahead of time: Schedule an appointment on a day when you won’t be too busy or in a hurry to get somewhere else. This gives the body a chance to unwind. 

Watch what you eat or drink: Avoid foods high in sugar or caffeine before your appointment, as they may make you jittery and trigger your nerves. Instead, opt for something with calming properties, such as caffeine-free tea. 

Don’t go by yourself: If you know someone you care about is waiting for you in the lobby, you’ll feel more at ease. 

Ask questions: Don’t be afraid to ask the dentist to explain what they’re doing throughout a procedure. Explaining everything has a calming effect. 

Take breaks to rest: Stop whenever you need to. Practice deep breathing. When necessary, a sensitive dental team will allow you to relax. 

Try to visit your dentist regularly: Fear of what might be wrong with your teeth may prevent you from seeing the dentist. The more you visit the dentist, the sooner you overcome the fear. 

Consider appropriate sedation options: The calming quality of nitrous oxide or other oral sedatives may be recommended by your doctor during more extensive procedures to calm nerves and make the process go more smoothly. 

Use our dentist anxiety tips to help you get through your dental appointment. We at Bravo! Dental ensure to put your health and comfort as our priority. Talk to our experts if you are facing any dental anxiety. We are always here to help! Call us at 1-888-682-7286 and get rid of your fears! 

 

Permanent Retainer VS Removable Retainer: Its Pros and Cons

Getting that flawless smile requires a lot of hard work. From keeping up with the dental appointments to avoiding certain food. With all these fusses the only idea you’d have from the day you have fitted your braces is when they’d be gone. Getting that flawlessly straight smile is always a thrilling event that is worthwhile. 

However, this is not the end of the process. In reality, the most crucial portion of the journey begins when the braces end. 

The second stage is termed retention, a key follow-up stage that keeps your teeth in their new position. Teeth can take a year or more to settle after braces, making them prone to movement. 

After your braces have been removed, your orthodontist will fit retainers. To keep the teeth from moving, your retainer will be custom-made to fit. Without a retainer, all of the progress you’ve made with braces over the last few years will be undone pretty quickly. Here is everything you need to know about retainers.  

 There are two types of retainers: Permanent Retainers and Removable Retainers. 

Permanent Retainers 

Permanent retainers are mostly recommended after extensive orthodontic work and for extra protection while the teeth settle into the new position. A custom-fit wire will be glued to the back of the teeth to suit your bite, alignment, and comfort. 

Pros 

  • Helps prevent front tooth movement, which is a risk factor for relapse. 
  • You needn’t worry about removing them regularly for eating and cleaning. 
  • The permanent retainer is not visible from the outside because it is glued to the back of your teeth. 

Cons 

  • You must be cautious about what you eat. Hard, gritty, sticky, or gummy foods may cause the retainer to break. 
  • You must be diligent in keeping the retainer clean as it can form tartar. 
  • They do not give any protection against relapse for the back teeth. 
  • As it would be hard to floss, it could easily welcome microbes and form tartar. 

Removable Retainers 

Removable retainers can be used only during treatment hours and can be removed when you eat, brush, or as directed by your orthodontist. Removable retainers have an effect on your teeth only when you wear them. You’ll most likely need to wear them every day and night. 

There are two types of removable retainers: Hawley and Essix. 

A Hawley retainer is made of a plastic or acrylic plate. It covers the roof of your mouth with a wire across the front of your teeth, allowing you to personalize the retainer. 

The Essix retainer is made of molded clear plastic and easily glides over your teeth to keep them in place. This is a popular retainer as it is almost invisible. 

Pros 

  • Clear, practically invisible, and comfortable to wear. 
  • Covers teeth and keep them from shifting. 
  • Easy to clean because retainers can be removed to brush and floss. 
  • Can help protect dental restorations (fillings, crowns, etc.) 
  • Protects your teeth from grinding or clenching. 
  • Serves as a bleaching tray to help whiten their teeth after treatment. 

Cons 

  • You must be responsible and always keep in mind to wear the retainers as directed.  
  • If you lose your retainers, you will have to pay to have replacements created. 

To get your desired straight teeth, a good bite, and a gorgeous smile, consult our experts at Bravo! Dental. We provide a unique retainer replacement plan in our office just for you. 

So why wait? Get the smile you have always desired! 

Can orthodontics treatments help with an impacted tooth?

Most people believe that extraction or surgical removal is the most common treatment for an impacted tooth. But, here’s some exciting news: Simpler orthodontic braces can be used to treat an impacted tooth.

Orthodontics is used to treat or enhance a wide range of dental health issues. Many usually think of visible problems like a crooked or crowded tooth, but braces can also help with the ‘invisible’ issues of an impacted tooth.

What is an impacted tooth?

An Impacted tooth is any tooth that is hindered from reaching its natural position in the mouth by tissue, bone, or another tooth. The impacted tooth has been prevented from breaking through the gum or sometimes partly impacted, which means it has begun to break through the gums. If the damage is severe and untreated, the impacted tooth can loosen and fall out, causing a neighboring tooth to loosen and fall out as well.

Many people are unaware they have an impacted tooth until they visit the dentist. An exam or x-ray verifies that a tooth is impacted. Some may experience sore or swollen gum, a headache, or even difficulty opening their mouth completely.

How orthodontics can help with Impacted tooth?

Orthodontic treatment done at the earliest is an effective technique to treat an impacted tooth. The treatment strategy is chosen based on the tooth’s growth direction, age, and intricacy.

Also, if adequate space for tooth eruption exists, the impacted tooth would erupt. Surgical intervention may be required if the impacted tooth is in a difficult site. Braces are the preferable alternative for minimizing tooth damage and controlling the eruption course.

Orthodontic treatments for Impacted tooth

Here are a few effective ortho treatments that could correct your impacted tooth.

Orthodontic Braces Treatment

If you have an impacted tooth, a set of metal or ceramic braces can be used to rearrange the tooth and make more room for the impacted one. If an impacted tooth has an overcrowded or crooked tooth, braces can move the tooth into the right position, ensuring that the entire arch of tooth is straight and properly spaced. Braces are used not only for aesthetic purposes but can also enhance oral health by making a tooth simpler to clean.

Ortho Aligner

Unless the problem is mild, ortho aligner is not commonly utilized to treat an impacted tooth. Clear aligners lack the pulling power of braces when it comes to getting an impacted tooth out of the gum and into the ideal position. Ortho aligner can be used to straighten a crooked tooth that has been pushed out of place by an impacted tooth.

If you have completed your braces treatment but have not had your wisdom tooth removed, you should see a dentist regularly to ensure the tooth does not become impacted or create overcrowding as they may emerge.

If you still need to know more about treating an impacted tooth and improving your overall dental alignment, talk to our experts at Bravo! Dental today.