Braces have come a long way in recent years. This is why a growing number of parents are choosing to have early orthodontic work performed on their children. Also, at an early age, it’s much easier and quicker to adjust the position of teeth.

Early orthodontics can prevent the need for braces later on -- so your child grows up with a beautiful smile -- along with self-confidence.

What unique options are now available and how might these benefit the child?
- Brightly coloured elastics have become standard practice.
- A child can choose his or her favourite colours.
- This allows them to feel more involved in the procedure itself.

"To make braces more acceptable and fun for young people, manufacturers have made brightly coloured elastics."

Take a look at the other advantages associated with early orthodontics:
https://www.colgate.com/en-ph/oral-health/cosmetic-dentistry/early-orthodontics/early-orthodontics-may-mean-less-treatment-later

If you have ill-fitting dentures you may want to consider getting implants instead:

- Dental implants comprise a titanium post that is screwed into your jaw and topped by a crown and look just like natural teeth.
- Dental implants can be a practical alternative that permanently replace missing teeth; they can prevent bone loss from within the jaw and look and feel like a natural tooth.
- You can also get dental implants to keep your dentures secure - a treatment called All-on-Four.

"If you are considering options to replace uncomfortable dentures, schedule a consultation about dental implants today."

Read the full story here:

 https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/dental-implants-solution-shifting-ill-fitting-dentures/

One of the most important components of healthy teeth involves the foods that we eat. This is why it is critical to maintain a healthy diet if you hope to avoid cavities and other potentially serious issues.

What are three foods which should be eaten sparingly?

- Sour candies can easily stick to your teeth; leading to decay over time.
- The sugars in bread can cause tooth decay if consumed in excess.
- Alcohol can reduce the amount of saliva within your mouth; leading to oral issues.

"Cavities are the most common chronic disease faced by people aged six to 19 years old."

Read more about foods to avoid here:
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/worst-foods-for-your-teeth#1

Your dentist will sometimes perform an X-ray during your check-up:

- X-rays can highlight cavities between teeth, assess damage to a tooth, help visualise the position of erupting wisdom teeth or identify jaw problems.
- The X-ray machine will be positioned by your side and sometimes spacers are placed inside your mouth to help obtain the image.
- It is perfectly normal for the operator to step outside of the room while the X-ray is taken.

"Tell your dentist if you believe you are pregnant, because radiation is not considered safe for developing fetuses."

Read the full story here:

https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-x-rays

E-cigarettes for vaping contain ingredients including glycerin, flavoring, and nicotine which may impact on oral health. Consult with your dentist about the potential issues vaping can cause to teeth and gums.

Key takeaways:

- As propylene glycol used in e-cigarettes breaks down, the products produced contain acids toxic to teeth enamel.

- E-cigarettes contain a liquid which is heated and the viscosity of this liquid allows cavity-causing bacteria to stick to teeth.

- These products have a lot less nicotine than traditional tobacco products, but it still has the potential to affect oral health.

"Although the percentage of nicotine is much lower (0.3%–1.8%) than traditional tobacco products, one electronic cartridge (200–400 puffs) can equal the smoking of two to three packs of regular cigarettes. The dangerous effects of nicotine on gum tissue are well known."

Read the full story here
https://www.perioimplantadvisory.com/articles/2019/01/vaping-and-oral-health-it-s-worse-than-you-think.html

Gum disease is a serious condition which requires the help of your dentist. However, did you know that your teeth and gums might not be the only systems to be affected? A growing body of evidence suggests a link between gum disease and Alzheimer's disease.

Interesting observations include:

- Certain oral bacteria are linked with Alzheimer's disease.
- This bacteria may be able to spread from the mouth to the brain.
- Early intervention is the best way to avoid future complications.

"Some studies even suggest your risk doubles when gum disease persists for ten or more years."

Additional research-related information can be found here:

https://healthminute.org/2019/02/alzheimers-is-linked-to-gum-disease-but-bad-oral-health-is-not-the-only-culprit/

It's never too early to start taking the steps needed to guarantee your children's dental health. Here's what you should be doing as a parent as soon as your child's teeth come in.

Key takeaways:

- Use a toothpaste that contains fluoride.
- Prevent decay by limiting or avoiding sugary treats or beverages.
- Food or drinks containing sugar should not be given before bedtime.

Pediatric dentists specialise in offering dental care to children, so you should keep regular appointments with them too.

Read the full story here
https://www.drmichaels.com/blog/why-does-my-child-have-cavities-despite-regular-brushing

The incorrect use of soothers or dummies can lead to future problems with a child’s teeth and even jaw and mouth development. A dentist should always be consulted at the first sign of dental problems but using a soother properly can reduce the risk of later dental issues.

Basic guidelines to follow when using a soother are:

• Try limiting its use to when the child is sleeping or napping
• Do not dip the soother in sweet solutions
• Wean the child off the soother by the age of two or earlier

A soother should be used “only as a last resort” after the first twelve months.

Read the full story here
https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/how-does-a-pacifier-impact-your-childs-oral-health

Veneers are an effective procedure that can improve your smile even if you have multiple dental problems. Here are a few things to keep in mind about this treatment.

Key takeaways:

- Veneers can be as strong as your natural teeth, and are highly resistant to staining.
- In some cases, veneers can last for up to 20 years.
- Veneers can get damaged by teeth grinding, sports injuries, or bad habits like chewing on ice.

Your dentist is the best source of information on this treatment and on how to make it work for you.

Check out more information here:
https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/dental-veneers/

During pregnancy the body undergoes hormonal changes and this can impact on both bodily and dental health. While physical changes are obvious the effect on dental well-being may go almost unnoticed until it becomes a problem. Some possible adverse affects of pregnancy are:

- Sensitive teeth
- Sensitive and swollen gums
- Increased risk of periodontal (gum) disease

Looking after the body is vital during pregnancy but so is maintaining good dental health. Seeing your dentist while pregnant is safe and is important “not only for your health but for the health of your baby” as gum disease has been associated with premature births.

Read more at https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/gumsensitivity/.