Not all dentists are created equal

You may be forgiven for thinking that all dentists are the same when it comes to the qualifications they possess and the treatments they are able to offer; however, this is not always the case.

 
While most dentists are able to provide general dentistry services, from regular check ups to teeth cleaning and polishing and the performing of fillings, other treatments require expert knowledge and additional training.  One example of a more specialised procedure is a root canal.

 

 

Finding a root canal specialist
 

Root canal treatment is one way of saving a tooth that may have developed an abscess or has become infected or damaged in some way.  Performing such treatment is often preferred to simply having the affected tooth removed, and in the long run, this is far more cost effective and beneficial for the patient.  Implants and dentures will never be as effective as the real thing.

However, your general dentist may not be able to perform such a treatment, and will have to refer you to a root canal specialist instead.  This is because root canals involve more than just dealing with teeth, they also involve removing damaged or dead nerves and blood vessels that a general dentist may not have significant knowledge of.

A root canal specialist will have undertaken an additional two years of training to become qualified as an endodontist.  This often means that not only do they have training above and beyond what your general dentist will have, but they will also have more experience in dealing with root canal treatments, making them better able to predict the need for a particular course of actions.

Root canal specialists will also have more specialised equipment on hand to help in the diagnosis of your condition.  This can include the use of operating microscopes and scanning equipment which your day to day dentist may just not have access to.

If your dentist has advised you that you need root canal treatment they will be able to discuss with you whether or not they can provide the treatment for you.  Alternatively they may advise you that it would be in your best interests to seek a second opinion from a specialist, and they can make this referral for you.

If you are referred to a specialist it is important to remember that this does not mean that your dentist is inferior in any way – it is exactly the same process as with your GP who may refer you to a specialist for further assessment if they think it is valid.  Your dentist will always want you to have the best level of care possible, as this will have a positive effect on your general oral health in the long run.

Author Bio :

 

Jayden Willis writes blogs on general oral health, as well as information on root canal specialists. His articles on the subject inform readers of all aspects of dental health.

Do You Need Help Locating Pediatric Dental Specialists?

Dental visits are some of the most traumatic events for children. For this reason, it is important they get used to a good pediatric dental specialist very early in life. Hence, it is advisable to familiarise your child with a dental specialist as soon as their milk teeth appear. Make each visit a positive, pleasant, and cheerful experience so your child will not be distressed during later visits.

Bhandal Dental Practice offers many convenient facilities in the Coventry area, and has many well-trained and experienced pediatric dental specialists. They warmly welcome children who get free care under the NHS. Bhandals are also reputed for their traditionally friendly and personalised care. The ambience and equipment in their clinics are child-centric and puts your child at ease immediately.

What kind of pediatric dental specialties do they offer?

• Interceptive Orthodontics: A special approach is taken to guide a child’s dental progression with proper alignment, spacing etc.

•  Endodontics: Treats infected teeth, including milk teeth, with root canal therapy.

• Periodontics: Prevention and treatment of gum disease and surgical placement of dental implants is also offered.

• Services for children with special needs: A variety of services designed for children with special needs are available.

• General Dentistry: Includes but not limited to carrying out restorative, preventive, and cosmetic dental needs.

• Fillings: Both composite and amalgam fillings are offered.

• Protective Services: Sealants or fluoride treatments are carried out to reduce the risk of decay in later years.

How should you prepare your child for a visit?

Although you might personally be more comfortable with your family dentist, it is advisable to take your child to a pediatric dental specialist. A pediatric dentist is specially trained to be sensitive to the developmental, behavioral and treatment needs of children. He or she is trained in handling young children from basic preventive dental needs to complex medical and restorative requirements.

The atmosphere and apparatus are also focused on making your child’s visit more comfortable and pleasant. Local anesthesia is usually administered by a computer-controlled delivery system that eliminates big syringes and reduces pain.
 

Schedule the visit when the child is otherwise healthy and in good spirits. Do not use negative or scary words like pain, injections etc. Impress on your child the importance of having good oral health and a happy, cheerful life.  Promise a treat after the dental exam and explain that good teeth are essential to enjoy ice cream and candies.

It is advisable for you to talk to your child about any fears he or she may have. Anxiety increases the pain response and make your child feel confident and at ease. Unless unavoidable take your child to the same pediatric dentist to make visits as friendly and stress free. Follow up visits should be done within six months unless special conditions require frequent visits.

You have probably gone through the rigours and pain of dental exams and procedures, and it is understandable if you are worried and apprehensive of your child’s well-being and potential suffering. However, technology, equipment, and training have vastly improved and with so many good pediatric dental specialists, you can be assured of excellent results.

Teeth whitening – A perfectly safe way to a dazzling smile

There is a common concern amongst many individuals across the globe related to discolored or stained teeth. This factor becomes quite frustrating every time the concerned person smiles. However, this is not something dreadful and definitely has a solution. Whatever your budgetary concerns may be, or however tight your work schedule is, the only thing needed to be done is finding a good dentist. If you are a resident of West Midlands, it can be quite easy to locate a good dentist. Once this is accomplished, finding the right solution for teeth whitening will not be difficult. Remember, you will not repent on your decision to go ahead with teeth whitening.

 

#1. Worth the effort

You may wonder why to take so much effort for searching a good teeth whitening dentist in West Midlands. However, every time you smile post the whitening effort, you will feel pleased and people will love your smile. This will boost your self-esteem and make you confident. Further, white shining teeth are a sign of young age. Good teeth also minimize attention towards any wrinkles on your face, thus enhancing your appearance. Studies have proved that people with stained teeth are never liked by opposite sex. This is all the more important to direct your attention towards engaging in a teeth whitening session.

 

#2. It is perfectly safe.

There are various methods adopted by dental clinics to whiten your teeth. It needs to be mentioned here that all these methods are extremely safe and will not do any damage to your teeth. Though temporary side effects may be experienced, these are not a cause of worry. So the bottom line for everything is that, teeth whitening is a safe bet to obtain that perfect smile.

#3. Minimizing side effects if any.

As was mentioned above, there are some individuals who may encounter some side effects due to teeth whitening. If these are with regards to teeth sensitivity, taking a small break before resuming treatment can work. If the issue persists, you can start using some toothpaste that is especially manufactured for such problems. Again, a good dentist will help you better in this regards. This is just one example of side effects and your dentist is a better judge of the treatment method that will suit your cause. Overall, this is not a major concern and hence, engaging in teeth whitening is safe.

 

Avoid foods which cause stained teeth

Once you complete treatment for teeth whitening, it is necessary that you stay away for indulging in foods which can again cause stains on your teeth. High pigmented items such as berries, soy sauce and drinks like colas and coffee can cause staining. Even if you do have such food stuff, remember to immediately brush. While drinking colas, using a straw is recommended. Along with all this, recommendations from your dentist need to be followed strictly if you intend to sustain teeth whitening for longer duration.

Finally, everything boils down to finding the right source; a good dentist, and everything else will fall in place and you will get a shining smile.

About the Author:

 

Jayden Willis is a known dental practitioner, who associates with a teeth whitening West Midlands clinic. He often pens down informative articles for the  benefit of readers.