Dentistry by Doc Val

31/10/2025

Halloweening

Why You Shouldn't Be Scared of Going to the Dentist ...
You shouldn't be scared of the dentist because modern technology and techniques have made procedures less painful, dentists are trained to be compassionate and help you feel comfortable, and regular visits prevent more serious and painful problems from developing. Open communication with your dentist about your anxieties can help manage fear and ensure you feel in control of the process.

28/10/2025

Can I get dentures that look like my real teeth?

Well‑made dentures not only look like natural teeth but also help you eat, talk, and smile without worrying about movement or artificial appearance.

How long do dentures last?

Dentures typically last between 5 to 10 years, but this can vary depending on factors like the type of denture, how well they are cared for, and natural changes in your mouth. You may need a reline, repair, or replacement sooner if you notice a poor fit, pain, difficulty chewing or speaking, or damage like cracks and chips.

28/10/2025

When a tooth is lost, the bone beneath it starts to shrink. This happens because the jawbone only stays strong when it’s being used — the tooth’s root transfers chewing pressure that keeps the bone alive and dense. Once that root is gone, the body thinks the bone isn’t needed anymore, and it begins to dissolve slowly.

Within a few months, that empty space starts to change shape. The gums collapse inward, and the neighbouring teeth tilt toward the gap. The opposing tooth may even grow longer, trying to “find” its missing partner. What was once a simple replacement soon becomes complicated — less bone to hold an implant, less space to fit a new tooth, and a distorted bite that strains the remaining teeth.

The longer the delay, the bigger the problem: bone grafts, orthodontic corrections, and multiple procedures may be needed later. Early replacement — whether by an implant, bridge, or graft at extraction — preserves the bone, space, and smile.

A missing tooth isn’t just an empty spot — it’s the beginning of bone loss, shifting teeth, and a harder future fix. Replace it sooner, and save yourself years of trouble.

🔹 Disclaimer: This post is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional dental advice.

26/10/2025

Gingivitis Vs Periodontitis

21/10/2025

Read on --- discover the wonders of Baking Soda. Dental aspect included ... and other health benefits

16/10/2025

Do Braces Change Your Face?

Yes, braces can change your face shape, but the effects are usually subtle and depend on your specific bite and alignment issues. By correcting problems like overbites, underbites, or crossbites, braces can improve facial symmetry, slightly define the jawline, and make your profile appear more balanced. Changes occur gradually as teeth and jaw alignment are adjusted, and are more noticeable when significant jaw misalignment is corrected.

14/10/2025

Pediatric Dentistry FYI

Many parents let their baby fall asleep with a milk bottle in the mouth — thinking it’s harmless or comforting. But what begins as a sweet bedtime habit often ends with severe tooth decay called Baby Bottle Caries or Nursing Bottle Caries.

When milk or juice stays pooled around a child’s teeth during sleep, bacteria in the mouth feed on the sugars. This produces acid that slowly erodes the enamel — especially on the upper front teeth, which are most exposed. Over time, these teeth turn brown, crumble, and may decay down to the roots, often before the child even turns two.

Pediatric dentists now call this a silent epidemic. Studies show that early childhood caries can affect a child’s nutrition, speech, and confidence — and even increase the risk of dental problems later in life. The decay is often rapid and painful, requiring extractions or crowns under general anesthesia.

The solution is simple yet powerful: Never put a baby to bed with a bottle containing milk, juice, or sweet liquids. Offer only plain water after brushing at night. Clean your baby’s teeth and gums daily, and schedule their first dental visit by age one. Early prevention saves not just teeth — it preserves smiles, confidence, and health.

13/10/2025

F Y I

Most people recover from a cold or flu and go right back to using the same toothbrush — but that simple habit can bring the same germs right back into your mouth.
Toothbrush bristles can trap bacteria and viruses, including Streptococcus, Influenza, and even Staphylococcus aureus. Research shows these microbes can survive for days, especially in a moist bathroom environment.

Every time you brush after being sick, you risk reintroducing those pathogens to your mouth — or even spreading them to family members if toothbrushes are stored close together. The result? A higher chance of reinfection, sore throats that come back, and delayed healing.

Experts recommend tossing your toothbrush after any illness involving fever, sore throat, cold, flu, strep, or COVID-19. Replace it with a fresh one once you’re fully recovered. It’s a small but powerful hygiene upgrade that keeps your immune system focused on recovery — not fighting the same infection twice.

🪥 Pro Tip: Always store your toothbrush upright, uncovered, and away from others. A clean brush equals a cleaner mouth — and a stronger body defense.

06/10/2025

Everyone knows i'm not playing favorites ... but i'm just grateful for the opportunity to care for someone so talented, now an icon in his field, yet very humble. Wishing him a smooth and swift recovery from his injury ... so we can all see him back on the court. 🙏🏽

06/10/2025

Dental FYI ☝🏽

Sleeping with the mouth open isn’t just uncomfortable — it can silently harm oral health. When the mouth stays open for hours, saliva quickly evaporates. Saliva is the body’s natural defense against tooth decay, washing away food particles, neutralizing acids, and protecting enamel. Without it, teeth are left vulnerable.

Research has shown that people who regularly sleep with their mouths open have higher cavity risk compared to those who breathe through their nose. A dry environment in the mouth accelerates bacterial growth, leading not only to cavities but also gum inflammation and bad breath. Over time, this simple habit can turn into costly dental problems.

The reasons behind open-mouth sleeping vary — nasal blockages, allergies, deviated septum, or even just a sleeping posture. Regardless of the cause, the result is the same: teeth and gums are left unprotected through the night. Identifying and addressing the reason is crucial for long-term dental and overall health.

Practical steps matter: stay hydrated, address nasal breathing issues with a doctor, and schedule regular dental check-ups. If cavities or gum issues are spotted early, they can be treated before they become serious. Protecting the mouth while sleeping is just as important as brushing and flossing during the day.

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Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace a professional medical advice or diagnosis.

06/10/2025

Replacing crowns for esthetic reasons is common due to discoloration, wear, gum recession, changing preferences, or outdated materials. Modern advancements offer more natural-looking options like porcelain and zirconia that mimic natural teeth, resulting in a more beautiful and harmonious smile. The replacement process involves consultation, removal of the old crown, preparation of the tooth, and placement of a new crown, often made from more advanced, translucent materials.

03/10/2025

DENTAL FYI 😊
BRACES take time because they rely on a slow biological process called bone remodeling, where bone breaks down and rebuilds to allow teeth to move safely and hold them in their new positions. Applying excessive force to speed up this process can damage your teeth, gums, and jawbone, which is why orthodontic treatment must be gradual and consistent to ensure stable, healthy results.