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Understanding Lip Ties: Causes, Impact, and Treatment

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In recent years, parents have become more attentive to their newborns’ oral anatomy, leading to an increase in reported cases of tongue and lip ties. According to a study by the Trilogy Society, awareness has contributed to more diagnoses. While mild lip ties may not cause significant health concerns, severe cases can lead to complications such as breastfeeding difficulties, speech issues, and dental problems. What is a Lip Tie? A lip tie is a congenital condition where the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gum, known as the labial frenulum, is unusually thick or tight. This restriction can limit upper lip movement, potentially affecting feeding, speech, and oral development. Lip ties often occur alongside tongue ties and tend to run in families, with boys being more commonly affected than girls. What Does a Lip Tie Look Like? A lip tie appears as a thick or tight band of tissue that tethers the upper lip to the gum. In some cases, the frenulum extends lower down the gum line...

Can Babies Be Born With Teeth? – Surya Dental Care

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Teeth usually start developing in babies a few months after birth. However, in rare cases, some newborns are born with teeth, known as natal teeth . While generally harmless, they require special care to prevent potential complications. Consulting a pediatrician or pediatric dentist can help ensure your baby’s oral health is well managed. What Are Natal Teeth? Natal teeth are teeth present at birth, often with weak roots, making them more prone to falling out prematurely. While there is no definitive cause, some experts suggest they may be linked to genetic factors or underlying conditions. A 2023 study found that approximately 1 in 289 newborns had natal teeth, whereas 1 in 2,212 babies had neonatal teeth, which emerge within the first month of life. Characteristics of Natal Teeth Commonly appear in the lower front gum area (incisors) Often have weak, underdeveloped roots, making them loose May be small, discolored, or irregular in shape Sometimes covered by soft tissue rather than ...

A Complete Guide to Permanent Retainers: Benefits, Drawbacks, and Alternatives

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After completing orthodontic treatment, your orthodontist will recommend retainers to maintain your newly aligned teeth. Retainers prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions. There are two main types: permanent retainers and removable retainers . In this blog, we’ll explore permanent retainers , their benefits, drawbacks, and alternative options. What Is a Permanent Retainer? As the name suggests, permanent retainers are fixed to the inner surface of the teeth and can only be removed by an orthodontist. They are also known as bonded retainers or fixed retainers . Since teeth naturally tend to shift over time, permanent retainers help preserve the results of orthodontic treatment, especially for patients with severe misalignment, spacing issues, or crowding. How Are Permanent Retainers Made? The manufacturing process of permanent retainers involves three key steps: 1. Custom Shaping and Fabrication The process starts with taking an ...

Rotten Teeth: Causes, Symptoms & Effective Treatment

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Rotten teeth are a serious dental condition that not only affect your oral health but also lead to bad breath and an unsightly smile. Many people experience bad breath due to tooth decay but rely on temporary solutions like mouth fresheners, chewing gum, or digestive aids. However, understanding rotten teeth, their symptoms, causes, and treatment options is essential to prevent severe dental issues. This blog covers everything you need to know about rotten teeth, helping you maintain good oral health and avoid complications. Keep reading to protect your smile from decay and bad breath. What Are Rotten Teeth? Rotten teeth occur when one or more teeth become severely decayed due to untreated cavities. This condition is primarily caused by poor oral hygiene and excessive consumption of sugary foods, leading to bacterial buildup. Over time, the decay can create holes in the teeth and even result in tooth loss. It is crucial to address tooth decay as early as possible beca...

Pericoronitis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

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Pericoronitis refers to the inflammation of gum tissue surrounding the third molars, commonly known as wisdom teeth. This condition can range from mild to severe, with symptoms including pain, swelling, pus formation, and bad breath. It primarily affects the lower jaw more often than the upper jaw and is most common among individuals in their early 20s, as this is when wisdom teeth typically begin to emerge. If left untreated, pericoronitis can lead to serious complications, making prompt dental care essential. Continue reading to learn more about home remedies for symptom relief and the professional treatment options available. Causes and Risk Factors of Pericoronitis Pericoronitis occurs when wisdom teeth partially emerge, leaving a flap of gum tissue that can trap bacteria, food debris, plaque, and bacterial film. This leads to inflammation and infection in the surrounding gum tissue. Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing pericoronitis, including: Being in your earl...

How to Remove Tooth Decay at Home & Prevent Cavities

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Tooth decay occurs when the enamel breaks down, leading to cavities—small holes in the teeth. While cavities require professional dental treatment, you can take preventive measures and even reverse early-stage tooth decay at home. Some home remedies, such as using fluoride toothpaste, won't remove existing cavities but can help prevent new ones from forming. If you already have a cavity, consulting a dentist is essential. Keep reading to discover how to stop early tooth decay at home and prevent cavities. What Is Tooth Decay? Tooth decay is the gradual destruction of the tooth’s outer layer (enamel) due to acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. These acids form when bacteria break down sugar and starch from food. Over time, they strip minerals from the enamel, leading to cavities. Symptoms of Tooth Decay In its early stages, tooth decay may not show noticeable symptoms. However, as it progresses, it can cause: ✔  Tooth sensitivity  (especially to hot...

Coconut Oil Pulling Dangers: Risks and Precautions

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Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice used to maintain oral hygiene by removing bacteria and stimulating saliva production. The practice involves swishing one teaspoon of oil around the mouth first thing in the morning for about 20 minutes and then spitting it out. Common oils used for oil pulling include: Coconut Oil: Popular for its taste, availability, and high lauric acid content. Sesame Oil: Traditionally used in Ayurveda, known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Olive Oil: Another option with antimicrobial and moisturizing benefits. In recent years, coconut oil has become the preferred choice due to its accessibility, pleasant taste, and lauric acid’s antibacterial properties. This article explores the benefits and risks of coconut oil pulling to help you practice safely and effectively. Benefits of Coconut Oil Pulling While the benefits of oil pulling are supported by limited scientific evidence, the following are commonly ...