Here’s what Orthodontists have to say on World Orthodontic Health Day

Here's what Orthodontists have to say on World Orthodontic Health DayHere's what Orthodontists have to say on World Orthodontic Health Day

May 15, 2017 was the first World Orthodontic Health Day, and the WFO created a special logo and posters that established the brand identity of this annual celebration. The logo, available in a variety of formats, is available for download (see below). WFO members should use this logo in all promotional materials for this celebration going forward. Read more.


Malocclusion which means teeth which are out of their normal positions in both upper and lowers jaws of an individual.  Malocclusion is associated with adverse Psychological & social effects including the longevity of the dentition & oral health overall & therefore adversely affecting the quality of life.

Malocclusion can manifest in a wide range & variations of malpositioning of teeth in the dental arch like – spacing/crowding/protrusion/retrusion /rotation and so forth.

Adverse consequences of Malocclusion

A person’s malocclusion can have a direct effect on his/her dental & facial aesthetics leading to poor social image & psychological disturbances. A person’s quality of life can be affected due to compromised functions of the oral cavity: chewing, breathing & speech.

Consequences of Malocclusion:

  1. Poor facial aesthetics

Negative body image

Psychological disturbances

  1. Compromised function of the oral cavity

Poor masticatory performance

Difficulty in articulation & lack of clarity of certain words

  1. Loss of tooth substance & attrition

Hypersensitivity of teeth

  1. Increased susceptibility to trauma
  2. More prone to dental diseases
  3. Obstructive sleep apnea

Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment:

  1. Improved smile/facial aesthetics
  2. Improved oral functions
  3. Positive psychological outlook
  4. Improved body image
  5. Reduction of Obstructive sleep apnea

The WFO Executive Committee chose May 15 for World Orthodontic Health Day as it marks the signing of the WFO’s charter in 1995 during the 4th International Orthodontic Congress in San Francisco. The main aim of celebrating this day – May 15th every year as the “World Orthodontist Day” is to promote the awareness of ill effects of malocclusion and promoting the science of Orthodontics to solve this problem.

  • The various treatment options available to the patients are:
  • Removable corrective appliances/plates
  • Preventive removable trainers
  • Functional jaw orthopaedic appliances

Fixed braces

Usually fixed orthodontic treatment commences at the age of 12-13yrs , i.e when all the permanent teeth have emerged in the mouth. But there are instances when the preliminary treatment has commenced as early as 8-9yrs due to the severity of the problem like severely displaced upper anterior teeth or any other jaw deformity or even a thumb sucking habit.

Habits such as thumb sucking have to be curtailed as early as possible. It is considered normal if a child sucks his/her thumb until the age of 4 yrs. But thereafter it poses a threat of deforming the dental arches by flaring up the upper front teeth and pushing back the lower front teeth.

To control this habit a Tongue crib is advised which has to be worn by the child for at least 6-8months depending on the severity of the problem.

Fixed braces treatment can commence after the full set of permanent teeth have emerged into the mouth.

The types of fixed braces are

  • Metal braces
  • Ceramic braces- Usually for adults who are more conscious about their appearance.
  • Lingual braces- which are invisible as they are placed on the inner aspect of the teeth
  • Invisalign/ Aligners – which involves a series of removable soft trays which the patient has to wear sequentially.

Usual duration of fixed braces lasts around one & half yr to two years depending upon the severity of the condition.




What are the first three most important patient factors for the
successful outcome of Orthodontic Result ?

Humans are complex and multiple patient, doctor, and appliance factors
are in play to give the resultant smile.

Three important patient factors which are mandatory to give best results

1. Maintenance of good oral hygiene.

2. Observing the appointment schedule.

3. Following dietary instructions to reduce appliance breakages.







Braces . . . a road map for a healthy lifestyle !

“What’s dental braces got to do with health ?!”

A lot ! Trust you are aware that your mouth is the gateway to your health. i.e. Whatever you put in your mouth has a big role to play in your overall health. Things put in the mouth, unless liquid, cannot be gulped down. It needs to be broken down in small pieces, so that the juices in the stomach may easily digest it. That job is delegated to your teeth, jaws and the muscles around your mouth.

“What difference does it make, if teeth are not ‘straight’ ?!”

If the teeth are not in the correct place, you think breaking down of food will happen evenly. In an attempt to break it down evenly, individual teeth undergo more than necessary strain. In the long run, teeth end up wobbly. One dial, of the many in a watch, if out of place, the time is never set right. Same with the teeth set.


If the upper and lower teeth are not in the correct place, the muscles around the mouth and jaws may shift the lower jaw such that it gets the teeth, as nearly in the correct place, as possible, to break down the food evenly. This shift can cause uneven wear of one or many teeth. It may weaken the teeth, cause pain in the gums around the teeth, pain in the jaw, pain in the jaw joint, pain in the head and neck, or, a combination of these.

“It’s alright doc. I brush my teeth twice a day. I wont have any such issues!”

If the teeth are not in the correct place, it becomes difficult to clean the teeth and gums thoroughly. Teeth and gums, dirty in some nook and corner of the mouth, not only gives a bad smell to those around you, but you end up having cavities on your teeth and gum infection around it. In the long run, you may end up losing few, or, many of your teeth.

“What, doc !! I have crooked teeth, but I have nothing, what you mentioned!”

If you don’t, thank your genes, and/or, your body’s capacity to deal with the situation. However, be aware, things will surface, given time. Meanwhile, in your best interests, do let a qualified orthodontist examine your pearly whites.

Orthodontic associations around the world, celebrate May 15, as WORLD ORTHODONTIC HEALTH DAY, to create awareness about the various possibilities with orthodontic treatment.


BDS,MScD (Phil.), MDS


As braces is not just for good looks

Let us raise awareness on this World orthodontist Day about the
increasing importance of teeth that are in line and bite properly.

Studies suggest. A single teeth that is not in its correct position can
cause interference in biting which can lead to temporomandibular joint
disorders and frequent headaches. Such cases are most commonly left
undiagnosed leading to patients taking painkillers for prolonged
periods.  These pain can be similar to migraines. Severe patients with
Migraine should go for a dental evaluation by an Orthodontist!!!

Maybe it was never a Migraine!!


An Orthodontist’s Message for World Orthodontic Day- 15th May 2018

 A confident smile can work wonders; it can inspire, motivate, exude charm and even give comfort and assurance.  It has the power of a thousand unspoken words. Such an uninhibited and radiant smile generally stems from good oral health.  Healthy teeth are often referred to as our “32 pearls” because of the immense esthetic value they add to the face when they are well aligned, correctly positioned in the jaws and disease free. The importance of celebrating 15th May as the “World Orthodontic Day” is aimed at creating awareness that orthodontic checkups beginning as early as 7 years of age can help create healthy, beautiful smiles with improved self esteem enhancing the psychosocial component of an improved quality of life.





DISCLAIMER : “Views expressed above are the author’s.”

Changing your mouth and teeth with age

Changing your mouth and teeth with ageChanging your mouth and teeth with age

Over time, there is loss of brightness and cracks in the enamel. Teeth also tend to turn yellow and wear away as a result of attrition, erosion or abrasion. With wear, the dentine of the tooth is more and more exposed and can cause hypersensitivity.

Gums and alveolar bone

With age, the gum loses its elasticity and becomes thinner. These changes make it more susceptible to bacterial infections and loosening (recession) thus helping to bare the roots of your teeth. This exposure of the roots can lead to dentin hypersensitivity.

The bone, for its part, may show signs of resorption thus giving less support and support to the tooth.

Mouth mucosa, cheeks and tongue

Becoming thinner and slimmer, they are more vulnerable to ulcers, trauma and different infections. The ability to heal is also slower.


Saliva has antibacterial and antifungal properties. The older we get, the less saliva we produce. This decrease in salivary flow may result in difficulty swallowing, chewing and digestion, impairing your speech and causing dry mouth (xerostomia). This lack of saliva can also be accentuated by various medications or treatments (radiotherapy), mouth breathing and certain diseases. In addition, xerostomia increases the carious risk.

Well sealant and cracks

If you look closely in your child’s mouth, it is possible to notice cracks on the top of the permanent molars and premolars. The presence of these furrows causes food debris and bacteria to accumulate more easily and promote the formation of tooth decay.

Preventative application of sealant inside pits and crevices helps protect the tooth against attack by decay-causing bacteria. For good dental hygiene, we recommend that you combine this process with the daily use of dental floss, as well as regular brushing.


DISCLAIMER : “Views expressed above are the author’s.”

Hygiene advice and tips for children

Dental hygiene for childrenDental hygiene for children

Children’s food contain a lot of sugar, so it is suggested to rinse the mouth and clean the teeth after consumption.

Change the toothbrush every three months or as soon as the bristles are frayed or bent by wear

Rinse the toothbrush after each use and let it air dry.

Since bacteria can lodge at the bottom of the toothbrush between the bristles, it is recommended to change it after a high fever or contagious disease.

The supervision of brushing your child’s teeth is desired until age 8, the age at which he will have better dexterity. Despite good supervision, it is essential that you complete the brushing. It is also very important to make sure your child does not swallow fluoride toothpaste to prevent dental fluorosis.

All fluoride products (toothpaste, mouthwash and gels) should not be within your child’s reach and stored in a safe place.

Quantity of toothpaste recommended:
  • 5 and more: size of a pea
  • teenagers and adults: 1 cm or less


DISCLAIMER : “Views expressed above are the author’s.”

How to brush your teeth

Dental hygiene for seniorsDental hygiene for seniors

Brush your teeth two to three times a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush for three minutes.

You can divide your mouth into four quadrants: upper right quadrant, upper left quadrant, lower right quadrant, and lower left quadrant.

Each quadrant must be brushed for 45 seconds. It is advisable to have a watch or hourglass on hand.

The positioning of the brush depends on the area you are going to brush:

  1. Start with the inner and outer surfaces: Position the toothbrush 45 degrees at the level of the gum and make small movements from the gum to the tooth, as if you were painting a wall. Also remember to clean the back of the last tooth
  2. Go to the chewing surfaces: Hold the brush flat and rub these surfaces.
  3. Once you reach the inner surfaces of your anterior teeth, tilt the brush vertically and clean these surfaces with the tip of the brush.
  4. Brush your tongue back and forth to eliminate food residue and odor-causing bacteria and freshen your breath.

What type of toothbrush to choose

Manual toothbrush or electric toothbrush?

The manual brush may be sufficient if you know how to brush your teeth by making roller movements while brushing “red to white” during the recommended three minutes. The main advantage is its low price. In addition, she is never short of battery and can easily be carried on a trip. However, its effectiveness is less good.

Which types of bristle do you prefer?

For people with no particular pathology, it is recommended to use toothbrushes with soft bristles, with a diameter of very fine filaments, of the order of 20 hundredths of a millimeter. Hard brushes cause tooth abrasion and gum retraction that can lead to dental and cosmetic problems.

What are the benefits of an electric toothbrush?

For the same brushing time, the electric brush removes more dental plaque than the manual toothbrush. It works alone and therefore requires less effort. It is important to “let work” the electric brush and not to do more wrist movements. Some brushes are also equipped with a timer that allows to better respect the three minutes of brushing. For children aged 7-8, it may be easier to use because their manual dexterity is worse than that of adults.

What are the disadvantages of an electric toothbrush?

The electric toothbrush is more expensive to buy. Vibration can also put some people off and the need to recharge can be a problem when traveling. In addition, an electric brush is often a little heavier than a manual brush because of its battery, which can be annoying for some elderly people. Nevertheless, the larger size of the handle generally allows a better grip.

What are the differences between electric brushes?

The former made a vertical back-and-forth movement. With their tilt-and-turn movement, the news is more powerful: the round brush head rotates on its axis, while adding a three-dimensional back-and-forth movement, which eliminates more plaque. There are also “sonic” brushes, which create vibrations.

We do not recommend “low end” brushes, battery operated, less efficient.

Which models of toothbrush to choose for children?

Better to choose a manual brush with soft bristles that can be used from 12 months, once a day. “Junior” brushes, manual or electric, have a small head, adapted to the size of the mouth of the child. From 7 to 8 years old, the “playful” side of the electric brushes can help the child find the brushing less time consuming, for example by playing a small music.

Are there toothbrushes for certain situations?

During pregnancy, the risk of gingival inflammation is higher due to hormonal changes.

A thinner toothbrush with bristles of 15 hundredths of a millimeter can be used if the gums bleed or are swollen and painful.

After dental surgery, dentists prescribe brushes with even finer hairs (7 hundredths of a millimeter). Very gentle, they can brush your teeth without pain. Then, a brush of 15 hundredths can be used on the painful gums then one returns to the normal toothbrush.

In the case of dental hypersensitivity, an electric brush with a sensitive brush head or a manual brush with very fine filaments is recommended. But they should only be used for a limited time because they are insufficient for good brushing.

For wearers of orthodontic appliances , the same as above or special brushes can be used, with specific bristle implantations to pass between the rings.


DISCLAIMER : “Views expressed above are the author’s.”

Dental hygiene for the pregnant woman

Mar 13, 2018
Dental hygiene for the pregnant womanDental hygiene for the pregnant woman

The development of the teeth of the embryo begins towards the 5th and 6th weeks of intrauterine life, so it is sometimes even before the confirmation of your pregnancy! From the beginning, a special importance to food is required. Sticky and sugary foods should be avoided and if they are consumed, immediate brushing is indicated.

The sugars and the absence of brushing cause the lowering of the pH of the saliva below the critical threshold where the production of acid triggers the demineralization process of tooth enamel, the first stage of tooth decay. The more the consumption of sugars is frequent, the more the involvement of the enamel will progress towards the less calcified parts of the inside of the tooth (dentin and pulp).

Vitamins and minerals

Pregnancy requires a sufficient amount of vitamins (A, B, C, D, etc.) as well as minerals (phosphorus, iron, calcium, etc.). The calcium in your teeth is stable and the baby can not change that structure. However, if your calcium intake is insufficient (eg dairy products), the embryo will draw calcium from your bones.

Dental treatments during pregnancy

During the first trimester, a consultation with your dental hygienist is recommended. By knowing your condition, she will evaluate your oral condition and advise you appropriately. The hygienist will completely clean your teeth, removing all deposits responsible for dental caries and gum disease (bio-film or plaque, tartar, stains).

Even if dental X-rays are safe, they will not be taken until after your pregnancy, except in emergency situations (eg, abscess, fracture, etc.). If this is the case, the lead apron covering the abdomen will still be used. When curative treatments are required, they can usually be planned during the second trimester of pregnancy and the products used (eg, anesthetic) have no adverse effect on the fetus. Some treatments will however have to be postponed after pregnancy (ex: bleaching).

Pregnancy gingivitis (or pregnancy)

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause a reaction in the gums and the presence of bio-film (dental plaque) can aggravate this situation. Swelling, redness, tenderness and spontaneous bleeding are possible. It is important to maintain good daily oral hygiene by brushing, using a soft bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste, and using dental floss. With good care, the condition of your gums will recover after delivery.

Premature birth and low birth weight babies

Many studies show that toxins present in periodontal disease (tooth support: gums and bones) cause the risk of premature birth and low birth weight babies. These children have lower resistance to infections and more often have birth or developmental abnormalities.


Brushing with a soft-bristled brush and rinsing the mouth with water or a fluoride mouthwash helps to reduce the stomach acid deposited on the teeth and mucous membranes, as well as in the mouth. saliva.


DISCLAIMER : “Views expressed above are the author’s.”

Dental hygiene for seniors

Mar 6, 2018
Dental hygiene for seniorsDental hygiene for seniors

Although tooth loss increases with age, the main cause is not age-related. Periodontal diseases and root caries are the main culprits. Fortunately, with improved oral hygiene and regular visits, seniors now have the opportunity to keep their natural teeth healthy throughout their lives.


As with any age, it is appropriate for seniors to consume enough dairy products and each of the food groups.

Oral hygiene

It is important to maintain good daily oral hygiene by brushing with a soft bristle brush and a fluoride toothpaste. When motor skills are reduced, the toothbrush can be adapted to ensure better grip and the use of an electric toothbrush can sometimes help.

No brush can reach the contacts between the teeth and the space between the gum and the tooth. Because cavities and gum disease can develop, only dental floss can complete the cleaning of these surfaces. The market offers a wide variety of wire carriers that simplify this task. The cracks in the tongue contain dead cells, biofilm (dental plaque) and food debris that can only be removed with a toothbrush or tongue cleaner.

Visit to the dental hygienist

Visits every six or twelve months, to the dental hygienist, can detect beginner caries, gum disease and other oral diseases (defective fillings, oral lesions, etc.). It is important for you to mention all your health problems, medications used, diseases diagnosed, symptoms, etc. The advice, the preventive methods, the proposed treatments and the frequency of the visits will thus be personalized according to each one.

Periodontal diseases (gums and bones of the tooth support)

In the beginning phase, gum disease is often painless and not easily detectable by yourself. Early detection and management can prevent the progression of inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) to the tooth support (periodontitis). The loss of estrogen from the post-menopause causes a loss of bone density that can accentuate the predisposition to periodontitis. Untreated periodontitis results in bone resorption and may worsen until tooth loss. The control of periodontal diseases preserves the dentition and also helps prevent the progression or complications of other diseases (eg diabetes).

Many studies show that microorganisms in periodontal disease can migrate into the bloodstream and be involved in heart disease, stroke and lung disease.

Dental hypersensitivity

Gingival recessions and tooth wear (attrition, abrasion or erosion) cause exposure of tooth surfaces with narrower nerve endings (cementum and dentin). This often causes the hypersensitivity of the teeth to hot, cold, sweet, citrus acidity, brushing, pressure and touch. The dental hygienist can help you identify the cause and advise you on excellent solutions.

Removable dentures

Removable dentures (partial or complete) should be brushed after each meal with a soft brush. It is advisable to remove them at least four hours a day, massage the gums with a soft toothbrush and clean the tongue. Poor hygiene and the presence of microscopic fungi, such as Candida albicans, can cause inflammation of the tissues under the prosthesis (prosthetic stomatitis). The continuous wearing of the prosthesis aggravates this type of inflammation.

There are several factors that can affect mouth retention of prostheses (dry mouth, osteoporosis of the jaw bone, weight loss, etc.). Poor retention leads to premature resorption of the bone, and difficulty chewing can lead to digestive disorders. The annual office visit is desirable in order, among other things, to check and correct the fit of the prostheses. Nonprescription adhesive products in pharmacy are only a temporary solution.

During an extended stay in an establishment, it may be appropriate to engrave on the prostheses the name and first name of the wearer.

Halitosis (bad breath)

Halitosis can be occasional or chronic, that is, it persists despite good oral hygiene. Hormonal changes, medical problems or medications can alter your breath. However, the most common causes come from the oral cavity: poor hygiene, dental problems (eg tooth decay, abscess, gum disease, etc.), dry mouth, certain foods, alcohol, tobacco, etc. Good daily oral hygiene, healthy lifestyle habits and professional cleaning and care in the office eliminate many of the causes of halitosis.

Xerostomia (dry mouth)

With its antibacterial and antifungal properties, saliva also regulates oral pH. The decrease in saliva therefore creates discomfort and deprives precious natural protection against oral diseases. In some cases, the use of saliva substitute or fluoride may be beneficial. Xerostomia is caused by a variety of factors: medical conditions, medication, hormonal changes, radiotherapy, etc.


You may be part of the 75% of smokers who want to quit this habit but need help. Like all health professionals, the dental hygienist has information on this subject (documentation, help centers, etc.). And, as the very first signs of the harmful effects of tobacco are manifested at the level of the mouth, the smoker will be informed of its oral state.

Oral cancer

The predisposition to oral cancer is more pronounced from the age of 45 and the main risk factors are smoking, alcohol, sun, a poor diet, heredity, etc. Cancers of the mouth and throat have the particularity to evolve quickly and be fatal if they are not detected early. Regularly check the inside of your mouth and consult your professionals every year.


DISCLAIMER : “Views expressed above are the author’s.”

Dental hygiene for children

Dental hygiene for childrenDental hygiene for children
The eruption of teeth

The last teeth of milk finish their eruption between 20 months and 33 months and these will remain in the mouth until the age of 11 or 12 years. Primary teeth play an important role in permanent dentition as they prepare and maintain the location of the teeth until the eruption occurs between 6 years and 13 years.


Brushing should be done at least twice a day, using a soft bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste (the size of a pea toothpaste is sufficient). If the child has a susceptibility to tooth decay, brushing should also be followed by every meal and every sweet or sticky snack.

You are a model

The young child observes and seeks to imitate. Encourage him to hold the brush and brush himself. However, you must always complete the brushing because the child does not acquire the dexterity required until the age of 6 years and sometimes even 8 years! Children under 6 must always be accompanied by an adult when brushing their teeth to ensure that every surface is cleaned, to make sure the child does not swallow toothpaste and rinses properly his mouth.

Some children have spaced teeth and others have tighter teeth. No toothbrush can clean properly when two teeth are in contact. The decay can develop there, only the dental floss will make it possible to complete these places. To do this, at least once a day, your child will need your help until he has the required skill. The sooner you start flossing, the better your dexterity and the sooner you’ll be inclined to include that excellent habit in your daily routine.

Visit to the dental hygienist

Your child should continue to visit the dental hygienist every six or twelve months, depending on the frequency established to ensure optimal follow-up, according to his needs. It is always good to prepare the child well before the visit: history books and role plays will help you. Prefer an appointment in the morning because the child is at this time well rested. The visits will mainly consist of a polishing of the teeth, a fluoride application and personalized advice from the dental hygienist.

Sealing of pits and fissures (sealent)

The troughs and furrows of the chewing surface of the permanent teeth easily trap food debris and bacteria from the bio-film (dental plaque), thus promoting the development of decay. As soon as the first permanent molars have erupted (around the age of six) and according to the morphology that they will present, sealing may be advisable. This resin will fill the hollows and furrows and, combined with good hygiene, prevent the development of cavities.


The choice of snacks is important for your child’s dental health. Fresh fruits and vegetables and some cheeses are great snacks for his dental health. 100% pure fruit juices are preferable to fruit drinks or cocktails, which are very high in sugar and low in vitamins. However, a large amount of juice promotes an acidic environment, conducive to cavities. Nothing better than water to appease big thirsts. Finally, make sure your child consumes enough dairy products.


DISCLAIMER : “Views expressed above are the author’s.”

Smiles, attracts. Nice smiles? Even more.

Smiles, attracts. Nice smiles? Even moreSmiles, attracts. Nice smiles? Even more

Oral hygiene
A healthy mouth is characterized by pink gums, without swelling and that do not bleed when brushing. Hormonal changes however, cause a reaction in the gums and the presence of bio-film (dental plaque) can aggravate this situation. Swelling, redness, tenderness and spontaneous bleeding is possible. This condition of the gums is abnormal but can redeemed quickly when you maintain good oral hygiene daily, by brushing with a toothbrush with soft bristles and a fluoride toothpaste.

Since no toothbrush can reach the contact surfaces between the teeth and the gap between the gum and tooth, where tooth decay and gum disease is more likely to develop; flossing is recommended.

Cracks in the tongue contain dead cells, bio-film (dental plaque) and food debris that can only be removed with a toothbrush or a tongue cleaner.

It is vital to consume enough dairy products and each of the other food groups; fresh fruits, vegetables and some cheeses are great snacks for your teeth.

Sweetened energy drinks as well as sticky and sweet foods should be limited. If such foods are consumed, brushing/rinsing is necessary. The sugars and the absence of brushing promote the production of acid and thus initiates the first stage of tooth decay. The more frequent the consumption of sugars, the more enamel involvement progresses towards the inside of the tooth (dentin and pulp) and the more the decay spreads.

Visit a dentist!
A dental visit is mandatory every six to twelve months, which can help to detect beginner caries, gum disease and other symptoms (oral lesions, wisdom teeth, etc.). Oral hygiene advice, preventive methods, proposed treatment plan and the frequency are personalized to the individuals oral condition.

The friction of piercing in the cheek, tongue or lip can create wear or fracture of a tooth, as well as irritation, bleeding and loosening of the gums. In addition, piercings are an open door to bacteria and risks of infection which can affect the general health and leave after effects for several years.

You may be one of the 75% of smokers who want to quit this habit but need help. Like all health professionals, dentists have information about it. The very first signs of the harmful effects of tobacco are manifested in the mouth, so the smoker is informed of the condition of his mouth at each visit.

Halitosis (bad breath)
Halitosis or bad breath can be occasional or chronic, however it can persists in spite of a good oral hygiene; hormonal changes, medical problems or even medications can alter your breath.

The most common causes come from the oral cavity: poor hygiene, dental problems (e.g. tooth decay, abscesses, gum infection, etc.) , mouth breathing, tobacco, certain foods, etc. Good daily oral hygiene, healthy lifestyle habits, proper cleaning and dental care eliminate many of the causes of bad breath.

Stains caused by tobacco and soda can usually be removed during professional cleaning. In a healthy person whose teeth are mature and healthy, the hue can be changed through bleaching. The result varies according to the color of the tooth and its response to the whitening product. A dentist must first provide the patient with all the required information:

It’s very challenging to maintain good oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment. In order to facilitate the control of the bio-film (dental plaque), specially designed toothbrushes are available (orthodontic brushes), an electric toothbrush can be used and the use of small brushes to clean between the rings.

Wisdom teeth
When present, the wisdom teeth (third molars) erupt between 17 and 22 years. Depending on their position or the space available, the third molars must sometimes be extracted if malpositioned, lack of space, etc.

Sealing of wells and cracks
Hollow areas and furrows in the chewing surface of permanent teeth easily trap food debris and bacteria from the bio-film (dental plaque). This promotes the development of cavities. When the premolars and the second permanent molars finish their eruption (between 11 and 15 years old) and the furrows are deep, the sealing may be advisable. Combined with good hygiene, this treatment performed by the dental professionals, helps to prevent decay of masticatory surfaces.

Energy drinks
These are very sweet drinks, responsible for caries and dental erosion.



DISCLAIMER : “Views expressed above are the author’s.”