Dr. Aarav Patel is a leading periodontist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease, as well as in the placement of dental implants. Dr. Patel is known for his gentle approach and commitment to using minimally invasive techniques to achieve the best outcomes for his patients. When not in the clinic or lab, Dr. Patel enjoys photography and exploring the great outdoors.
Humans typically have two sets of teeth over their lifetime. As children, they develop 20 primary or baby teeth, which begin to appear around six months of age. As adults, they have 32 teeth, including incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. This adult set includes four wisdom teeth, which may emerge in the late teens or early twenties. The total can vary if wisdom teeth are removed or never develop.
Putting on braces typically takes about one to two hours. This process starts with cleaning and drying your teeth, followed by applying an adhesive to attach the brackets. Once the brackets are in place, the orthodontist will thread the archwire through them and secure it with elastic bands. The procedure is straightforward and doesn’t cause pain, though you might feel some pressure or minor discomfort.
To immediately reduce braces pain, you can apply a cold compress to numb the area and decrease inflammation. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to soothe sore gums. Use orthodontic wax on any brackets that are causing irritation, and consider taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen as directed.
Flossing with braces requires a floss threader. Thread floss above the wire, guiding it between teeth, and gently move it back and forth. Glide it along the gum line to remove plaque and food debris. Repeat between each tooth and under the wire for thorough cleaning. This routine helps keep your teeth clean and prevent issues like gum disease during orthodontic treatment.
Mandibular tori are bony growths on the inside of the lower jaw that often cause no symptoms. In some cases, though, they can irritate the tongue or nearby tissues, leading to discomfort or ulcers. Large tori might interfere with dentures or speech. If you experience these issues, a dentist can advise on management or removal.
Infected gums after wisdom tooth removal can cause increasing pain, swelling, fever, bad taste in your mouth, and even discharge. Don't ignore these signs! See your dentist immediately. They'll likely prescribe antibiotics and clean the area to fight the infection. Early treatment is key for a quick recovery.
There is no direct link between vitamin deficiencies and the development of mandibular tori, but maintaining a balanced diet rich in these vitamins and minerals is still important for overall bone health and may indirectly influence bone density and growth.
Consider gum grafts for receding gums! This procedure protects teeth, enhances smiles, and boasts high success rates (76-98.4%). Be aware of the signs of failure (ongoing recession, pain, etc.) and risk factors (smoking, poor hygiene). Learn how to minimize risk and achieve successful gum graft healing.
