Diabetes and Oral Health
September 29, 2013
Tooth and gum problems can happen to anyone when plaque builds up. High blood glucose helps germs, grow in plaque. Then you can get red, sore, and swollen gums that bleed when you brush your teeth.
If you have diabetes, make sure you take care of your mouth. People with diabetes are at risk for mouth infections, especially periodontal (gum) disease. Periodontal disease can damage the gum and bone that hold your teeth in place and may lead to painful chewing problems. Some people with serious gum disease lose their teeth. Periodontal disease may also make it hard to control your blood glucose (blood sugar). Smoking increases likelihood of developing gum disease, especially if you have diabetes and are 45 or older. (more…)
What is Prosthodontics?
September 15, 2013
Prosthodontics is one of nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA). It involves the restoration of missing or misshapen teeth with artificial structures (prostheses), including crowns, bridges and dentures. To become a prosthodontist, a dentist completes an additional three years of advanced training after dental school and is therefore prepared to treat cases of the utmost complexity. The post-dental degree program includes in-depth training in biomedical and biomaterial sciences, bite function, head and neck anatomy, and esthetics. Patients requiring full-mouth rehabilitation or reconstruction as well as those who suffer from conditions such as temporomandibular joint disorder and sleep apnea will often see a prosthodontist as part of their treatment. Cosmetic dentistry, while not a specialty in itself, is taken to an advanced level within the specialty of prosthodontics. (more…)