Maintaining a Health Mouth

What does the health of your mouth have to do with your overall health? 

Your mouth is a window into what's going on in the rest of your body. Experts suggest that oral symptoms can help detect more than 90% of all systemic diseases - a disease that affects or pertains to your entire body.

Taking good care of your mouth, teeth and gums should be a priority, as they are the first point of contact for the impact you are going to make on the world. While a healthy mouth helps you ward off medical disorders, an unhealthy mouth, especially if you have gum disease, may increase your risk of serious health problems. Some of the risks you face include:

Cardiovascular disease: Bacteria can travel from your mouth, through your bloodstream, to the arteries in the heart, causing atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). This leads to an increased risk of heart attack or stroke. If you want to put your heart into everything you do, you need it to stay healthy.

Diabetes: It’s a vicious circle, where diabetes makes you more prone to gum disease, and serious gum disease contributes to diabetes as it affects blood glucose control. This two-way link should be a wake-up call to take care of your teeth, given the rising incidence of diabetes in the region.

Lung infections: Periodontal disease basically means you have more bacteria breeding in your mouth, and are therefore more likely to inhale germs, leading to lung infections like pneumonia.

Tongue health: Did you know that your tongue is actually covered in tiny bumps, called papillae. This surface can harbour a lot of bacteria, more than in the rest of your mouth, which can lead, not only to bad breath, but can affect your sense of taste. Overgrowth of bacteria can turn your tongue yellow, white, or even black and hairy-looking.

Minimising risks

An able body can help you stay adventurous. In order to take life head on you need to:

• Brush and floss your teeth daily, following it up with a swish of antiseptic mouthwash.

• Visit your dental professional regularly to have your mouth examined.

• Maintain a healthy diet and limit between-meal snacks.

Poor dental care can have consequences far beyond a simple toothache or some unsightly stains that affect your appearance. Good dental health provides the assurance you need to face the world head-on, confident in the knowledge that you are healthy, inside and out.

Simvastatin chitosan gel: A new approach for extraction socket healing and alveolar bone preservation

Youmna M Sherif 
Alexandria University, Egypt 

Healing of the extraction socket has been the area of concern of many studies over the past years, due to the occurrence of post extraction bone resorption and therefore, in many cases, the failure of implant placement, fixed or removable prosthesis. There have been many studies demonstrating the bone-promoting effect of simvastatin local application in animal models. Simvastatin in combination with chitosan is shown to increase bone volume, bone formation rate, and bone compressive strength along with inhibiting the osteoclastic activity, thus inhibiting alveolar bone resorption. The first experimental evidence in an animal model of the osteo-modulador effect of statins was reported by Mundy et al who demonstrated that treatment with simvastatin resulted in a significant increase in the rates and bone formation markers, and that the effect of statins were comparable to that induced by treatment with bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) and fibroblast growth factor, which are known stimulants of bone metabolism. Thus, this study aims at examining the influence of simvastatin chitosan gel on bone healing in extraction socket of first molar in rat mandibles and developing an injectable affordable material that preserves the alveolar bone architecture by enhancing bone regeneration and preventing bone resorption, where the specimens were processed for scanning electron microscopy and detection of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Fibronectin immunohistochemically.

Low level laser therapy to reduce pain and treatment times in orthodontics

Julio Rodriguez Lepage

Teaching Medical Center La Trinidad ,Venezuela

The fundamental aspect that drives this work is the importance of pain reduction and work times during orthodontic treatment. Almost in its entirety the patient who attends consultation does so primarily for an aesthetic demand and later for a functional demand. This is how perhaps few professionals in our specialty have given the necessary importance to pain management and treatment times. However, information from surveys applied to patients from different ethnic groups and social levels is handled in locations in the US, France and Spain, finding that 60% of the universe of potential orthodontic patients refers fear of starting treatment because they believe that this generates PAIN. We cannot ignore the clinical circumstances that generate a high level of sensitivity and pain, among these the most important: the beginning of the use of arches, bands and the mechanics of closing spaces.

This work seeks to demonstrate the various properties of the laser beam, specifically the low power diode laser (LLLT), evidencing its importance and usefulness in the field of current dentistry. The low-intensity radiation and its biomodulatory capacity is still under study. Specifically, in these tests, we sought to delve into the subject of the response of periodontal fibers, the nervous vascular bundle and support bone, thus increasing irrigation by accelerating the apposition-resorption process. We hope to open the way to future deepening in the increase of the adaptive response of periodontal tissue to orthodontic forces.

Materials and methods​. In principle an informed consent was made for the patient, making clear the benefits of the same and that this does not have any negative effect on their tissues or their systemic state. The laser application was made during the installation period of the fixed appliances to the group of selected patients (30 patients). The application of the laser was designed to a selected hemiarcade and to the other half to perform an application simulation to evaluate the placebo response. The results were observed and information gathered to be exposed in the work. The information collected guided us to evaluate the study data to conform to the characteristics of low-power laser therapy and its possible use in the different phases of treatment. The sample size was 30 people in ages between 20 and 40 years. Both hemiarchies to irradiate must have equal conditions for therapy. The group had 15 men and 15 women. The Caucasian race was chosen since they present a lower pain threshold than males and females of Asian and African origin.

The Exclusion Criteria. ​Normal psychological state, healthy systemic state (there should be no presence of Horner's syndrome or patients in terminal state); patients should not be consuming drugs such as analgesics, opiates, iontophoresis treatment, bisphosphonate intake or corticosteroids. Most of the studies consulted maintained that size or body weight do not influence the perception of the stimulus.

Results​.8 and a half month we were performing the tests with the low-level laser device, in this period it was possible to determine after a previous stage of planning and call of the patients that the previous psychological evaluation not only served to reduce

the levels of apprehension, but we also obtained a similar response in all patients in relation to treatment time and painful sensation. Of the 30 patients evaluated, it was determined that after the installation of the brackets and the application of the laser, the stage of greatest discomfort occurred in 20 patients between the 1st to the 4th hour and in 10 in all the first 24 hours. 25 of 30 patients evaluated responded after the applications that the treatment regardless of the phase had been reduced. Of the 20 patients completed during the study period in 18 of them, the orthodontic treatment was reduced from 2 years to 8 months.

Photofunctionalization of implants

Francisco José Portela León 
Universidad Autónoma De Chile, Chile

Statement of the Problem: There are investigations in the area of ultraviolet light that aim to improve that body assimilation more effectively. The photofunctionalization removes hydrocarbons that inevitably contaminate the surfaces of titanium or zirconium, causing that the interaction with the body is diminished and for that reason we have BIC (Bone Implant Contac) of 75 or 80%. This technology achieves a super-hydrophilicity like other surfaces as the SLA active that the affinity with the body is improved, being able to achieve osseointegration with 100% BIC, quadrupling the rate of osseointegration, achieving a bacteriostatic effect and without GAPs between bone and implant surface. 

It is also known that it is a biological seal of the attachments of our implants with the gum, for this the photofunctionalization also creates super-hydrophilic surfaces that better adhere to the fibroblasts of the gum. To be able to irradiate all our attachments that are in contact with the gum and to carry out more aesthetic and lasting treatments over time, would be that we would all like to achieve. 

Conclusion & Significance: Innovation, to be able to deliver superhydrophilicity to implants, abutments, meshes, etc, without the need of any chemical treatment, without incorporating Calcium, hydroxyapatite or phosphate to the surfaces; only with the light of an LED, LEDs that exist in the market for a long time and other industries use it for disinfection of water, surfaces and air; dry printing inks, etc. It only requires joining two industries of ultraviolet light with implants (Dental and orthopedic). My proposal is to achieve a package for implants that contains LEDs that photoactivate the surfaces at the moment before the surgery and the surfaces have their greatest potential. 

Things You Didn’t Know About Your Teeth

1. A tooth can come into the mouth with a cavity.

2. A cavity is one of the few things the body cannot heal. It just gets larger with time, unless a dentist removes the decay and places a filling.

3. A tooth can grow in upside down, sideways or backward.

4. Baby teeth hold space for the permanent teeth that follow – it’s important to hang onto them until they’re ready to come out on their own.

5. While we’re on the subject of baby teeth, they’re also called “deciduous” teeth – from the Latin word “decidere,” which means to fall off or be shed.

6. Teeth by the numbers: we get two sets of teeth – 20 baby teeth and 32 permanent teeth – unless you get extra teeth (supernumerary teeth), or some teeth never develop.

7. Research suggests that some sweet flavors in e-cigarette liquids may increase the risk of getting cavities.

8. Back teeth are called “molars.” They are used for grinding food when you chew.

9. Diet soda and sports drinks can be just as tough on teeth as regular soda. Both contain acid. Acid attacks the enamel surface of your teeth and can lead to cavities. Some bottled waters and flavored bubbly waters can be acidic enough to cause cavities.

10. The part of the tooth you see, the crown is only about a quarter to a third of the entire tooth. The rest of the tooth is under the gums.

Common Bite Problems in Children and Adults

1. Crossbite
When upper teeth fit inside of lower teeth. Can be caused by misalignment of teeth (including baby teeth) or a misalignment of the bone; can affect a single tooth or groups of teeth.
Posterior crossbite: If the back teeth are affected, upper teeth are to the inside of bottom teeth.
Anterior crossbite: If the front teeth are in crossbite, the top teeth are behind the bottom teeth.
Possible consequences if not corrected: The jaw shifts to one side; lopsided jaw growth; wearing down of outer layer of the tooth called “enamel”.

2. Underbite
The lower jaw sits in front of the upper jaw.
Possible consequences if not corrected: Face has “bull dog” appearance; tooth wear; stress on jaw joints.

3. Open bite
Anterior open bite: Occurs when the back teeth are together, and the upper and lower front teeth do not overlap. This can result from excessive sucking, tongue thrusting or mouth breathing.
Posterior open bite: Occurs when the front teeth meet, but the back teeth do not.
Possible consequences if not corrected: Swallowing problems; tongue pushes through teeth when swallowing. Possible speech problems.

4. Deep biteWhen the bite is closed, the upper front teeth cover the bottom teeth too much.
Possible consequences if not corrected: Upper teeth can bite into lower gums; lower teeth can bite into the roof of the mouth. Possible gum disease, early enamel wear.

5. Crowding
Insufficient space for the teeth. This can be a result of big teeth or inadequate space in the jaw or both. This may result in teeth that overlap, are rotated, or take on a crooked/staggered appearance.
Possible consequences if not corrected: Hard to clean; possible cavities, especially in between the teeth; gum disease.

6. Spacing
Too much space between teeth. It can result from missing teeth, undersized teeth, oversized jaws, or a combination of these conditions.
Possible consequences if not corrected: Food gets stuck in open areas. Possible cavities, gum disease.

7. Protrusion

Front teeth that stick out (“buck” teeth). Teeth may appear protrusive because the upper jaw is too far forward, the lower jaw is too far back, the teeth grew in at an angle, or a combination of these conditions. Sometimes people who have protrusive front teeth also have a deep bite.

Possible consequences if not corrected: Upper teeth are prone to accidental breaking; hard to comfortably close the mouth and lips, leading to dried out oral tissues followed by tooth decay. Speech problems. Long, narrow face.

The fact is that if any of these common bite problems exist in a child’s mouth, they likely will not self-correct. Untreated problems tend to get worse with time. Many times, the bite problems are best treated while the child is still growing, so make an appointment with an orthodontist today. You don’t need to wait until your dentist refers you.

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments offering a quick, non-invasive and affordable way to enhance a smile. Universally valued by men and women alike, whitening (or bleaching) treatments are available to satisfy every budget, time frame and temperament. Whether in the form of professionally administered one-hour whitening sessions at a dental office or cosmetic spa, or home-use bleaching kits purchased at your local drugstore, solutions abound.

Virtually everyone who opts for a teeth whitening solution sees moderate to substantial improvement in the brightness and whiteness of their smile. That said, it’s not a permanent solution to discoloration and requires maintenance or “touch-ups” for a prolonged effect.

In this article we break down everything related to teeth whitening, including the process of tooth discoloration, what causes staining, the various treatment options available, and their associated risks and costs.

Bleaching vs. Whitening: What’s the Difference?According to the FDA, the term “bleaching” is permitted to be used only when the teeth can be whitened beyond their natural color. This applies strictly to products that contain bleach — typically hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.

The term “whitening” on the other hand, refers to restoring a tooth’s surface color by removing dirt and debris. So technically speaking, any product that is used to clean the teeth (like a toothpaste) is considered a whitener. Of course, the term whitening sounds better than bleaching, so it is more frequently used — even when describing products that contain bleach.

The bleach preference for in-office whitening, where time is limited, is powerful and fast-acting hydrogen peroxide. When used in bleaching teeth, hydrogen peroxide concentrations range from approximately nine percent to 40 percent.

By contrast, the bleach of preference for at-home teeth whitening is slower-acting carbamide peroxide, which breaks down into hydrogen peroxide. Carbamide peroxide has about a third of the strength of hydrogen peroxide. This means that a 15 percent solution of carbamide peroxide is the rough equivalent of a five percent solution of hydrogen peroxide.

An Examination of Tooth Enamel
Most of us start out with sparkling white teeth, thanks to their porcelain-like enamel surface. Composed of microscopic crystalline rods, tooth enamel is designed to protect the teeth from the effects of chewing, gnashing, trauma and acid attacks caused by sugar. But over the years enamel is worn down, becoming more transparent and permitting the yellow color of dentin — the tooth’s core material — to show through.
During routine chewing, dentin remains intact while millions of micro-cracks occur in the enamel. It is these cracks, as well as the spaces between the crystalline enamel rods, that gradually fill up with stains and debris. As a result, the teeth eventually develop a dull, lackluster appearance.
Teeth whitening removes the stains and debris, leaving the enamel cracks open and exposed. Some of the cracks are quickly re-mineralized by saliva, while others are filled up again with organic debris.

Tooth Discoloration: Extrinsic vs. Intrinsic Staining
There are two categories of staining as it relates to the teeth: extrinsic and intrinsic.

Extrinsic stains are those that appear on the surface of the teeth as a result of exposure to dark-colored beverages, foods and tobacco, and routine wear and tear. Superficial extrinsic stains are minor and can be removed with brushing and prophylactic dental cleaning. Stubborn extrinsic stains can be removed with more involved efforts, like teeth whitening. Persistent extrinsic stains can penetrate into the dentin and become ingrained if they are not dealt with early.

Intrinsic stains are those that form on the interior of teeth. Intrinsic stains result from trauma, aging, exposure to minerals (like tetracycline) during tooth formation and/or excessive ingestion of fluoride. In the past, it was thought that intrinsic stains were too resistant to be corrected by bleaching. Today, cosmetic dentistry experts believe that even deep-set intrinsic stains can be removed with supervised take-home teeth whitening that is maintained over a matter of months or even a year. If all else fails, there are alternative cosmetic solutions to treat intrinsic staining, such as dental veneers.