Bleach is a solution of a compound called sodium hypochlorite; sometimes calcium hypochlorite is called bleach as well. Both compounds dissolve readily in water and are highly alkaline. The Material Safety Data Sheet for Clorox regular bleach, for example, lists the pH of its product as 11.9. Chlorine bleach (a solution of approximately 3–6% sodium hypochlorite, NaClO) and ammonia, when used together, can have very harmful effects on the body. It is especially important to avoid exposing the skin or eyes to bleach when handling it, as such an exposure can cause severe tissue damage. Continue reading
Author Archives: chzechze
The Disadvantages of Porcelain Crowns
A porcelain crown
Teeth can become weak due to extensive damage to the teeth, or certain dental procedures, or worn from age or neglect. When this happens your dentist can fit a crown, which will protect the tooth against future damage for up to 20 years. Crowns then are ‘covers’ for our teeth that fit over the chewing surface and over and around the outside surfaces like a glove. This can be used then to cover abscesses thus protecting exposed nerves and preventing food from getting trapped inside the gaps between the cusps in our teeth. Continue reading
The History of Gold Dental Castings
Gold metal framework in dentures
Where and when gold was first used in connection with the care of teeth as opposed to their decoration are matters of doubt and disagreement. However, it is generally agreed that gold was first used in dentistry over 2500 years ago, and its dental applications have increased steadily, especially during the past 100 of years, to the point where they now absorb over 80 tons of gold per annum. In some cultures, gold teeth and gold teeth caps are a sign of wealth or a means of protecting fortunes, but gold also has its place in the modern history of dental castings. Continue reading
The Effect of Bruxism on Dental Implant Success
Dental implant can be used to replace a missing tooth
If you lose a tooth because of trauma or disease, a dental professional can create a dental implant to replace that tooth. Implants are titanium rods that replace the root section of the missing tooth and serve as a base for either a porcelain or an acrylic plastic tooth. Continue reading
The Effects of an Impacted Canine Tooth
Canine teeth are the sharp, pointy teeth that are located between the incisors and the premolars. An impacted canine means the tooth has only grown partially through the gums and have not yet erupted into the regular position, even after the normal eruption period. The canine tooth is a critical tooth in the dental arch and plays an important role in your “biteâ€. The canine teeth are very strong biting teeth because they have the longest roots of any human teeth. They are designed to be the first teeth that touch when your jaws close together so they guide the rest of the teeth into the proper bite. It is also important for aesthetic reasons as it is a front tooth, and can be seen during talking or smiling. Continue reading
The Disadvantages of Metal in Tooth Caps
A metal tooth cap
Dental caps in general add a good deal of strength to a weakened or worn tooth, and if all conditions are favourable, a good tooth cap can last ten to fifteen years. Depending on your habits and the condition of your gums, there may be some drawbacks or benefits for you. Your dentist will advise which is best for you given several factors, such as how important appearance is to you. A tooth cap, also known as a dental crown, is a covering placed over a tooth and cemented into place. Materials used to make tooth caps include metal, resin, porcelain, or a combination of ceramic and metal. Continue reading
The Disadvantages of Chewing Gum
Inconsiderate users will simply dispose of their chewing gums
Chewing gum has been around since the time of ancient Greece, where people made a chewable substance from the resin of the mastic tree. Chewing gum has evolved over time to where it is now sold in a variety of types and flavors. Adults and children alike enjoy chewing gum, but while chewing gum can have its advantages, such as freshening breath, it can also have its disadvantages. Being aware of the detrimental effects of gum can help consumers make healthful decisions when next purchasing and planning on chewing gum. Continue reading
The Effects of Lip Rings on Teeth
Many types of lip piercing
Piercing is a popular way to decorate the body and enhance features. While the trend is popular, lip piercing does present some problems for the mouth and gums. If you wish to get a piercing, always visit a professional who follows proper sanitary practices. Make sure the piercing and the mouth is cleaned with mouthwash regularly to avoid infection. Good and effective tooth brushing methods must also be establish as it is the fundamental requirement for good oral hygiene. Continue reading
The Effects of Accutane on Bleached Teeth
Isotretinoin, commonly known as Accutane, is a prescription drug used in the treatment of extreme acne cases. Taken in pill form, the medication can clear up acne in four to six weeks for most users. However, Accutane is also known for causing a side effect that damages work on bleached teeth. The drug reacts to bleached teeth by causing a grayish lines on gum lines and staining the work of the bleach on the teeth, making the teeth yellowish. Continue reading
What Can You Use to Whiten Dentures?
When a denture is fabricated, the patient is asked to choose the shade of the teeth along with the dentist at the chair side. The patient would be given a face mirror to hold, and different variety of shades of teeth can be held up for the patient to see through the reflection of the mirror. The shade the approximated the adjacent tooth most should be chosen, and not the most desired shade by the patient. Therefore, choosing the shade of the teeth of the denture is always a delicate balance between what the dentist thinks is suitable, and what the patient wants. Continue reading