Smile Makeovers for the New Year

As the old year comes to a close and we prepare to ring in the new, why not consider ringing in a new smile for the New Year? Chipped, stained, misshapen, and missing teeth can all be corrected through prosthodontic procedures. And while the name sounds daunting, these procedures are simply those done by a trained professional to restore stunning good looks to your pearly whites. Prosthodontic procedures are those that involve diagnosis, treatment planning, rehabilitation, and maintenance of the function, comfort, appearance, and health of your mouth. Many of these procedures have become very popular, involve little risk, and have stunning results. We’ll discuss a few of these procedures here, so you can begin to make plans for a stunning smile.

Porcelain veneers are a relatively easy and inexpensive solution for stained, misshapen, or chipped teeth. One of the best things about veneers is that they can usually be applied without anesthesia. Veneers can even be used to remove unwanted spaces, and correct crooked teeth.  Veneers are made from an impression done by your Dental Life professional, and are then glued to your teeth. Veneers will not stain, and are very strong and durable, lasting from ten to fifteen years. Porcelain veneers have been popular with celebrities who need a quick smile makeover.

If your teeth are good looking except for stains and yellowing, then a simple teeth whitening procedure may be your best smile makeover option. While there are many over-the-counter, do it yourself type products available, professional teeth whitening is much more effective and long-lasting. Also, beware of salon-type teeth whitening services, not all whitening products are created equal, and many operating these types of shops do not have the professional training equivalent to that of a cosmetic dentist. Manhattan area residents should choose their teeth whitening options carefully. It is always a good idea to consult with a professionally trained dentist for the safest and most effective whitening methods.

Obviously a little higher on the price range, dental implants are not as expensive as they used to be, and have improved dramatically in technology. Implants are a great option when missing teeth are involved. Nothing is worse than dealing with dentures to replace those missing teeth, and a well done implant can finish off that smile without any embarrassing slips!

Other options include tooth bonding, contouring and reshaping, fillings, bridges, crowns, and caps. Really, the path to a beautiful smile may be much easier than you think. Whether you need your teeth whitened or need some dental implants, Dental Life has the perfect solution for your mouth.  Maybe a smile makeover is just what Santa ordered for the New Year!

Planning on Losing Weight in the New Year?

Do you feel about as stuffed as that turkey that was on the table this Thanksgiving? In the height of holiday season the last thing we want to think about is our weight. Usually it isn’t until the new year approaches and we start feeling a little extra tightness in the waistband that we consider making a resolution to exercise, diet, and lose weight. However, weight loss is a good thing to keep in mind right through the holidays, especially as NY Dental professionals ponder new information from a recent study revealing an alarming connection between obesity and gum disease.

In the study, 31 overweight individuals who had gum disease were given the same periodontal care. However, a control group underwent gastric bypass surgery to facilitate weight loss. After a period of time, all participants’ gum conditions had improved some due to the periodontal care. However, those who had enjoyed weight loss due to the surgery showed far greater improvement in overall gum health, reduction of inflammation, and a marked decrease in glucose levels.

Inflammation of the gums can lead to harmful effects over time, causing bone erosion and tooth loss. It also allows harmful oral bacteria to enter the blood stream. This bacteria has been linked to diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and other conditions.

One of the theories scientists propose for the connection between obesity and oral health is that excessive fat cells, called adipocytes, create more cytokines which reduce the ability of insulin to properly deal with sugars in the body. The result is elevated sugar in the blood stream which presents a constant assault on the gums and teeth. Other studies show that the blood vessels in the mouth show thickening in obese individuals, which decreases blood flow to the tissues. Reduced blood flow allows bacteria to stagnate without being removed by the immune cells in the body.

In earlier dental news, previous studies confirm the findings of this latest research, and there are many convincing factors that explain the connection. Not only does obesity promote periodontal disease, but it also increases risk of adult onset diabetes, which in turn has its own gum disease risks.

So, as you enjoy your holiday goodies, keep in mind moderation is always a good habit. Start planning today for a weight loss program that includes healthy eating and regular exercise. A healthy wight not only makes you feel better, but your mouth will thank you as well. Making an appointment with your dental care professional wouldn’t be a bad New Year resolution either!