Need Expert Advice?Our Gurus Can Help

Ans: Healthy gums do not bleed easily. So if your gums bleed it could be an indication of early gum disease. Kindly do not neglect it. Consult your dentist. Gum disease is easily curable. With proper treatment and personalised advice on gum care your gums will be strong and healthy again.

Ans: Tooth sensitivity can be caused by enamel thinning amd/or receding gums.

Tooth sensitivity can be managed and potentially reduced with some simple steps:

Oral Care Habits
1. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush: Gentle brushing can help reduce further irritation.
2. Choose a desensitizing toothpaste: Look for products containing potassium nitrate or strontium chloride.
3. Brush correctly: Use gentle circular or vertical motions, avoiding harsh scrubbing.

Dietary Changes
1. Limit acidic foods and drinks: Avoid or reduce consumption of citrus fruits, soda, and sports drinks.
2. Avoid extreme temperatures: Try to consume food and drinks at room temperature.

Additional Tips
1. Visit your dentist: Identify underlying causes and receive personalized advice.
2. Consider a fluoride varnish or gel: Professional applications can help strengthen tooth enamel.
3. Avoid grinding or clenching: Wear a mouthguard if necessary to reduce teeth wear.

By following these steps, you can help alleviate tooth sensitivity and prevent it from worsening. Consult your dentist for further guidance.

Ans: Hello
Your jaw pain and headache may very likely be due to your teeth grinding or jaw clenching when stressed or in your sleep. This is also usually accompanied by excessive wear of your teeth enamel. Your dentist will be able to pinpoint the cause. Of course, carious or infected teeth and gums need to be first ruled out.
Ask your dentist to give you a "night guard" which acts as a soft cushion between your upper and lower teeth and provides some relief.
But first you need to work on reducing your stress levels holistically and if necessary with your physician's help

Ans: Halitosis (bad breath) can be caused by:

1. Poor oral hygiene
2. Gum disease
3. Dry mouth (xerostomia)
4. Food particles trapped in teeth
5. Smoking/tobacco use
6. Certain foods (garlic, onions, etc.)
7. Medical conditions (sinusitis, diabetes, etc.)
8. Medications
9. Postnasal drip
10. Gastrointestinal issues

Maintaining good oral hygiene, keeping yourself hydrated, visiting your dentist regularly, and addressing underlying issues can help manage halitosis.
For underlying medical issues please consult your physician

Ans: Tooth sensitivity can be caused by:

1. Gum recession
2. Tooth decay
3. Cracked or chipped teeth
4. Worn enamel (due to acidic foods/drinks or grinding)
5. Gum disease
6. Dental procedures (temporary sensitivity)
7. Tooth whitening products
8. Aggressive brushing

If you're experiencing tooth sensitivity, consider consulting a dentist to determine the underlying cause and find the best solution.

Ans: Tartar, or dental calculus, forms when plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) on your teeth hardens over time. Even with regular brushing, tartar can form if:

1. Brushing technique is inadequate (e.g., not brushing along the gum line)
2. Brushing frequency or duration is insufficient
3. Plaque buildup isn't fully removed
4. Diet high in sugars, acids, or starches contributes to plaque formation

Regular dental cleanings (Scaling) can help remove tartar and prevent its buildup. Your dentist or hygienist can also provide personalized advice on maintaining good oral hygiene.

Ans: Hello
You have to examine why you want your teeth aligned.
Do you have a functional problem as a result of the mis-alignment?
Functional problems could be speech impairment, inefficient mastication, inadvertently biting your lip, and so on.
If you have none of these problems then the only outcome would be cosmetic

Ans: If you're experiencing tooth sensitivity, consider consulting a dentist to determine the underlying cause and find the best solution.

Tooth sensitivity can be caused by various factors. Here are some common causes:

1. *Gum recession*: Exposed roots can cause sensitivity.
2. *Tooth decay*: Cavities can expose nerves, leading to sensitivity.
3. *Cracked teeth*: Cracks can allow bacteria to reach the pulp, causing sensitivity.
4. *Worn enamel*: Acid erosion or grinding can wear away enamel, exposing dentin. Aggressive brushing or using generous amounts of toothpaste can also damage enamel.
5. *Gum disease*: Inflammation and infection can cause sensitivity.
6. *Dental procedures*: Sensitivity can occur after procedures like fillings, crowns, or teeth whitening.
7. *Tooth grinding or clenching*: Grinding or clenching can wear away enamel and cause sensitivity.
8. *Acidic foods and drinks*: Consuming acidic foods and drinks can erode enamel.

Managing Tooth Sensitivity
If you're experiencing tooth sensitivity, consider:

1. Using a desensitizing toothpaste
2. Avoiding acidic foods and drinks
3. Practicing good oral hygiene
4. Visiting your dentist for a check-up and advice

Your dentist can help determine the underlying cause and recommend the best course of treatment.

Ans: Hello
Teeth shifting and causing gaps to appear at your age (where there were no gaps earlier) strongly suggests weakness of gums.
Kindly consult a dentist to have your gum condition assessed and treated. Proper gum treatment can stop teeth shifting further and the gaps getting bigger. But cannot reverse the shifting that has already occurred.
Once the gums have been stabilised you may need to undergo corrective orthodontic treatment.
Tooth aligners, also known as clear aligners, can be used by people to have their teeth straightened or to have gaps between teeth closed. Thanks to advancements in dental treatment there is no strict upper age limit for using tooth aligners. Many adults in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, have successfully used aligners to straighten their teeth.

However, before using tooth aligners, it's essential to consult with an orthodontist or a dentist to determine if aligners are suitable for your specific needs and age. And please use aligners only under an orthodontist's supervision.

Ans: According to the Indian Dental Association (IDA), it's recommended to bring your child for their first dental visit within six months of the eruption of their first tooth or by their first birthday.

Early dental visits can help:

1. Get your child accustomed to the dentist's chair and instruments. To be brought to a dental clinic for the first time when the child is already in pain can be very intimidating.
2. Identify any oral health issues early on, such as tooth decay or gum problems.
3. Provide guidance on proper oral hygiene and diet.
4. Establish a lifelong habit of regular dental check-ups.

Some signs that your child may need to visit the dentist earlier than the recommended six months to one year include:

- Visible signs of tooth decay
- White or brown spots on the teeth
- Gum inflammation or bleeding
- Difficulty feeding or swallowing

Consult with a pediatric dentist (also called pedodontists) for personalized advice.

Ans: Namaste
Aapka last dant bachane layak hai ki nahi woh pehle dekhna padega.
Last ka dant bachana aksar mushkil hota hai kyon ki hamari drilling machine wahan tak aasani se pohochti nahi.
Agar bachana mumkin hai to dant ko avashya bachane ki koshish Karni chahiye.
Agar na mumkin hai toh usko nikalva lijiye

Ans: Hello
The condition you describe is rather common and usually linked to poor oral hygiene. Mobility of teeth and exposure of the roots is caused by abnormal recession of gums and simultaneous bone loss.
Please consult a Periodontist (a dentist who has specialised in treatment of diseases of the gums and jawbone). Provided the condition is not severe, it may be possible to save her teeth with periodontal surgery which may involve placement of bone grafting material or bone substitutes.

Ans: Hello
Only a few of us are lucky enough to be born with pearly white teeth. The rest of us have to make do with teeth which have a naturally creamish, greyish or brownish tinge of varying degree. I am, of course, not referring to those who choose to have poor oral hygiene or are addicted to smoking or chewing tobacco.
I'm afraid brushing well - or even brushing obsessively - is not going to make your teeth any whiter. On the contrary, brushing excessively or brushing hard can make your teeth look even more discoloured by unintentionally wearing away the enamel (the hard, outermost and whitest of the tooth's layers)
Over-the-counter whitening products are essentially mild versions of chemical bleaching agents (intentionally kept mild because such products are used unsupervised) which have limited effect or may take a long time to show results.
Your dentist, on the other hand, can bleach your teeth using suitable agents of stronger concentration which will show quicker and more visible effect.
In some cases, where the discoloration cannot be corrected by bleaching, you may need to have veneers made for your front teeth which will 'hide' the discoloration.
Please consult your dentist to know your best option.

Ans: Hello
I'm happy to know you brush and floss regularly. Please continue to do so.
While poor oral hygiene is the leading cause of bad breath, it is definitely not the only cause. Please be informed that it can be caused by various other factors, too.

Here are some of the most common causes of bad breath, also known as HALITOSIS.

Oral Health Issues
1. _Poor oral hygiene_: Infrequent brushing and flossing can lead to the buildup of bacteria, plaque, and tartar, causing bad breath.
2. _Gingivitis and gum disease_: Inflammation and infection of the gums can cause bad breath.
3. _Tooth decay and cavities_: Bacteria in the mouth can break down food particles, especially sugars, and release volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) that cause bad breath.

Food and Drinks
1. _Onions and garlic_: These foods contain sulfur compounds that can be released in the mouth and cause bad breath.
2. _Coffee and tobacco_: These substances can dry out the mouth, leading to an increase in bacteria and VSCs.
3. _Spicy or acidic foods_: Foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and spicy dishes can irritate the mouth and cause bad breath.

Medical Conditions
1. _Diabetes_: Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to dry mouth, which can contribute to bad breath.
2. _Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)_: Stomach acid can flow up into the mouth, causing bad breath.
3. _Sinus infections and respiratory issues_: Postnasal drip and respiratory infections can cause bad breath.
4. _Kidney disease and liver disease_: These conditions can cause a buildup of toxins in the body, leading to bad breath.

Lifestyle Factors
1. _Smoking and tobacco use_: Tobacco products can dry out the mouth and cause bad breath.
2. _Alcohol consumption_: Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to dry mouth and bad breath.
3. _Medications_: Certain medications, such as antidepressants, antihistamines, and decongestants, can cause dry mouth and bad breath.
4. _Hormonal changes_: Hormonal fluctuations during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause can lead to bad breath.

Other Factors
1. _Dry mouth_: A lack of saliva can contribute to bad breath.
2. _Mouth breathing_: Breathing through the mouth instead of the nose can dry out the mouth and cause bad breath.
3. _Poor digestion_: Undigested food particles in the stomach can be released into the mouth, causing bad breath.


If you're concerned about bad breath, it's essential to consult your dentist so that he can examine your teeth and gums thoroughly to rule out local factors and address any underlying medical conditions.

Mouthwashes definitely help by keeping the oral bacteria under control. At least temporarily. They mask mouth odours and give you a feeling of freshness.
But the root cause of the problem still needs to be identified and suitably treated. Also, please note that mouthwashes are not a substitute for regular brushing and flossing.
Your dentist will guide you on what mouthwash suits you best depending on your lifestyle, oral hygiene and medical history.
Meanwhile, here are some good attributes to look for in a mouthwash:

Active Ingredients
1. _Antibacterial agents_: Chlorhexidine, triclosan, or essential oils (e.g., tea tree oil) to combat bacteria and plaque.
2. _Anti-inflammatory agents_: Ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile to reduce gum inflammation.
3. _Antifungal agents_: Ingredients like domiphen bromide to combat fungal infections.
4. _Fluoride_: To strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay.

Additional Benefits
1. _Anti-plaque and anti-gingivitis properties_: To help prevent the buildup of plaque and reduce the risk of gingivitis.
2. _Bad breath prevention_: Ingredients like chlorine dioxide or zinc to help eliminate volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) that cause bad breath.
3. _Sensitivity relief_: Ingredients like potassium nitrate or strontium chloride to help desensitize nerves and provide relief from tooth sensitivity.
4. _Whitening agents_: Mild abrasives or hydrogen peroxide to help remove surface stains and whiten teeth.

Safety and Comfort
1. _Alcohol-free_: To avoid drying out the mouth and reducing saliva production.
2. _Sugar-free and artificial sweetener-free_: To make the mouthwash suitable for people with dietary restrictions or preferences.
3. _pH balanced_: To ensure the mouthwash doesn't disrupt the natural pH balance of the mouth.
4. _Gentle and non-irritating_: To minimize the risk of mouth irritation, especially for people with sensitive teeth or gums.

Ans: Mild gingivitis can be treated and managed at home with good oral hygiene practices and some natural remedies. However, if the condition persists or worsens, it's essential to consult a dentist for professional treatment.

Home Treatment and Prevention:

1. *Brushing and Flossing*: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once a day to remove plaque and food particles.
2. *Saltwater Rinse*: Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater several times a day to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.
3. *Antibacterial Mouthwash*: Use a commercial hydrogen peroxide/chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation.
4. *Dietary Changes*: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and avoid sugary and processed foods.
5. *Vitamin C* plays a significant role in gingival health. So make sure you have fresh citrus fruits (preferably unrefrigerated) on a regular basis. The other option is to take Vitamin C supplements.

When to Consult a Dentist:

1. *Persistent Gingivitis*: If your gingivitis persists despite good oral hygiene practices and home remedies.
2. *Severe Symptoms*: If you experience severe symptoms like bleeding gums, pain, or swelling.
3. *Gum Recession*: If you notice gum recession or exposed roots.
4. *Loose Teeth*: If your teeth become loose or mobile.


Remember, while home treatment and natural remedies can help manage mild gingivitis, regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are essential to prevent and treat gum disease.

Ans: Hello
This type of tooth decay is rather common in children. Most parents dismiss it as inconsequential because "milk teeth fall off anyway" and do not seek professional advice. I am happy to note that you are concerned and have already consulted a couple of dentists.
As long as your son's decayed teeth are asymptomatic, I would agree with your local dentists that, for now, no procedures should be done.
The logic is simple. A visit to the dentist is stressful even for adults. I imagine it would be even more so for a child of 4 or 5!
If the teeth in question are free from pain or underlying infection, we (the dental fraternity) would rather not expose the child to procedures which could potentially instill in him a lifelong fear of dentists and dental clinics.
However I strongly urge you to take your child for periodic check ups to ensure the decay doesn't spread unchecked and/or can be treated in time if the need arises. Please note if these teeth get infected and the infection is left untreated, the permanent teeth can also get damaged.
Also, you (the parent) need to inspect the said teeth and surrounding gums regularly to spot gum boils or swellings. If you spot any of this or if the child complains of pain please consult your dentist at once.
It goes without saying that he should brush his teeth with even more care. Ideally after every meal. Children cannot be fully trusted to brush their teeth well, so it's always wise for a parent to supervise.
If your son is a fussy eater you could consider giving him Calcium supplements. This will not help his current teeth in any way, but the permanent teeth which are due to erupt a few years later will hopefully be more resistant to decay.
Hope this answers your question.

Ans: Hello
I understand your anxiety. A visit to the dentist can be stressful, especially if you have had a bad experience.

Here are some key factors to help you identify a good dentist:

1. *Qualifications*: Check for a degree from a reputable dental school and valid licenses.

2. *Experience*: Consider a dentist with extensive experience in general dentistry or specialized fields like orthodontics or oral surgery.

3. *Communication*: A good dentist listens attentively, explains procedures clearly, and answers questions patiently.

4. *Chairside manner*: A caring and compassionate attitude can make dental visits less stressful.

5. *Up-to-date technology*: Modern equipment and digital X-rays indicate a commitment to quality care.

6. *Sterilization and hygiene*: Ensure proper sterilization techniques and a clean environment.

7. *Continuing education*: A good dentist stays updated on the latest techniques and advancements.

8. *Patient reviews*: Research online reviews and ask for referrals from satisfied patients.

9. *Professional affiliations*: Membership in organizations like the Indian Dental Association (IDA) or local dental societies indicates a commitment to ethical standards.

10. *Comfort level*: Trust your instincts and choose a dentist with whom you feel comfortable discussing your concerns and treatment options.

11. *Clear treatment plans*: A good dentist explains procedures, costs, and alternatives clearly.

12. *Emergency care*: Find out their policy for handling dental emergencies and after-hours care.

13. *Office hours and location*: Consider a dentist with convenient office hours and a location that suits your needs


By evaluating these factors, you can find a skilled and caring dentist who meets your oral health needs.

Ans: Hello
Dark stains on front teeth can be caused by various factors, including:

1. Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to plaque and tartar buildup, causing stains.
2. Coffee, tea, and wine consumption: Chromogens in these beverages can bind to tooth enamel, causing discoloration.
3. Tobacco use: Smoking or chewing tobacco can cause significant staining.
4. Trauma or injury: Blood from the injury can seep into the tooth, causing discoloration.
5. Medications: Certain medications, like tetracycline and doxycycline, or iron supplements can cause tooth discoloration as a side effect.
6. Other factors include enamel hypoplasia (caused by a deficiency of Calcium) or fluorosis (caused by exposure to an excess of fluoride during the tooth developmental stage)

To address dark stains on front teeth, consider the following options:

1. Professional scaling and polishing. In severe cases teeth whitening or bleaching may be necessary.
2. Dental bonding or veneers
3. Enamel microabrasion (for fluorosis or enamel hypoplasia)
4. Improved oral hygiene habits
5. Avoiding stain-causing beverages or using a straw
6. Quitting tobacco

Consult a dentist to determine the best course of treatment based on the underlying cause and severity of the stains.

Ans: Hello
For toddlers and young children, it's essential to choose a toothpaste that is safe and effective for their developing teeth and gums. Here are some recommendations:

1. *Fluoride-free toothpaste* (0-2 years): For infants and toddlers, a fluoride-free toothpaste is recommended. Look for a toothpaste specifically designed for this age group, like "Baby Toothpaste" or "Training Toothpaste". Please note that Fluoride, although extremely beneficial when used locally can lead to fluorosis if accidentally ingested. This is the reason toddlers need to use fluoride-free toothpastes.

2. *Children's toothpaste with low fluoride* (2-6 years): For young children, a toothpaste with a low fluoride concentration (around 500-600 ppm) is suitable. This helps prevent fluorosis (white spots on teeth) while still providing cavity protection.

3. *Gentle ingredients*: Opt for a toothpaste with gentle ingredients, to minimize irritation.

5. *Flavor and texture*: Select a toothpaste with a child-friendly flavor and texture to make brushing teeth a fun experience!

Most popular toothpaste brands offer multiple options for toddlers and young children.
In addition to these there are a few brands specially formulated for children which are ethically promoted (not commercially advertised, but sold through chemists on dentists' prescriptions) You may speak to your child's dentist for specific recommendations.

Remember to always supervise your child while brushing teeth and teach them proper oral hygiene habits from an early age!

Ans: Identifying a capable and honest dentist is crucial for your oral health and well-being. Here are some tips to help you find one:

1. Ask for referrals: Ask friends, family, or coworkers for recommendations. They can provide valuable insights into a dentist's work quality and chairside manner.

2. Check credentials: Ensure the dentist has the necessary qualifications, certifications, and licenses. You can verify this information with your state's dental board or professional organizations like the American Dental Association (ADA).

3. Check online reviews: Look up the dentist on review platforms. Pay attention to the overall rating and read the comments to understand the strengths and weaknesses. At the same time, do not rely on reviews alone as these can be manipulated, fake reviews can be easily generated.

4. Evaluate their communication style: A good dentist should listen to your concerns, explain procedures clearly, and answer questions patiently. Ensure you feel comfortable asking questions and discussing your treatment.

5. Assess their facility and equipment: A well-organized and modern dental office with up-to-date equipment is a good sign.

6. Check their approach to preventive care: A capable dentist emphasizes preventive care, including regular cleanings, exams, and education on oral hygiene.

7. Be wary of over-treatment: A honest dentist will not recommend unnecessary procedures. Be cautious if you feel pressured into extensive treatments.

8. Trust your instincts: If something feels off or you don't click with the dentist, it's okay to explore other options.

10. Schedule a consultation: Many dentists offer initial consultations or meet-and-greets. Use this opportunity to assess their approach, ask questions, and gauge your comfort level.

By following these steps, you can increase your chances of finding a capable and honest dentist who prioritizes your oral health and well-being.

Ans: Hello
You have not mentioned whether you have consulted a dentist for your gum inflammation and were treated in the past for the same.
The most common cause for gum inflammation is poor oral hygiene. Inadequate or improper brushing can lead to accumulation of tartar or calculus which in turn leads to gum inflammation. This tartar or calculus has to be cleaned (the process is called scaling) periodically by a qualified dentist in order to maintain gum health. The recommended frequency can be determined by your dentist after periodic check ups.
If you have gum inflammation despite regular check ups and cleaning, other factors could be responsible.
Certain medicines which need to be taken on a regular basis are known to cause swelling of the gums. Hormonal imbalances can also affect the gums. To rule out these extra-oral factors, your medical history and medication will have to evaluated and adjusted by a General Physician.

Ans: Hello Venkatesh
Please consult your dentist.
In my opinion gum polyps cannot be treated with medicines alone. They may require surgical removal. Please do not be intimidated. It's a very, very minor procedure.
Also the cause has to be identified and suitably treated to prevent recurrence. So please do not rely on home remedies or medicines alone.

Ans: Hello
You are not alone.
Tooth erosion refers to loss of natural tooth structure (enamel/dentine) due to acidic action. Tooth erosion is relatively common as many of us suffer from hyperacidity in varying degrees. Hyperacidity can be caused by a variety of factors. Stress, lack of sleep, irregular meal timings, poor dietary choices, etc
Enamel erosion can make your teeth extremely sensitive to hot, cold, sweet or sour elements in our diet.
Enamel loss due to acidic erosion can be exacerbated by aggressive brushing, use of excessive or abrasive toothpastes. This is referred to as tooth abrasion.
While loss of natural tooth structure due to erosion or abrasion can never be got back, there are ways to treat the symptoms of erosion. Kindly consult your dentist who can evaluate the extent of damage and suggest a suitable remedy. It could be as simple as using a desensitising medicated toothpaste to "desensitise" your teeth. Or could require the placement of fillings, laminates or crowns.
You may also need to consult your General Physician to control your hyperacidity.
For starters, you should cut down on all acidic food and carbonated drinks. And also learn to brush your teeth gently with a minimal amount of toothpaste.
Hope this answers your query

Ans: Hello sir/M'am,
How often you need to change your toothbrush depends entirely on your tooth brushing habits. If you're inclined to brush vigorously, exerting a lot of pressure (which is not good, you need to be gentle) then you may need to change your brush frequently.
If you use a HARD brush, it will last you longer. SUPER SOFT brushes will last the least. I normally recommend MEDIUM brushes if your gums are healthy.
The Golden rule, however, is to change your toothbrush when it starts to "flower". When the bristles curl outwards like the petals of a blossoming flower.

Ans: Hello
You can safely go ahead with whatever dental treatment you need. But please inform your dentist about your medical history and what medication you take. Also consult your physician about the planned dental treatment and what medication your dentist thinks you may need to take during the course of the treatment.

Ans: Hello
It’s sad that you've been suffering for the past 4 years and no lasting solution has been provided. It is quite possible that your problem is not dental in origin. You have clearly stated that you have consulted several dentists (including a TMJ specialist) so it is safe to assume that you no longer have any untreated dental infection or abnormality.
My advice to you would be to consult a reputed Neurologist or Pain Management specialist.

Ans: Hello,
Please visit your dentist for a basic consultation. If the enamel of your teeth has worn away due to acidic erosion or excessive abrasion he will likely recommend a suitable desensitising toothpaste.
If you suffer from hyperacidity or acid reflux please consult your physician for proper guidance

Ans: Hello Suresh
To answer your second question first, milk teeth (also called Deciduous teeth) are usually shed by the age of 12-13 yrs. So in all likelihood all the teeth currently visible in your son's mouth are permanent teeth. Please note his wisdom teeth (or third molars) will erupt at a later stage. Typically, between 18 and 25.
Please consult your dentist to find out why your son's teeth are discoloured and whether they need cleaning or whitening

Ans: Hello
Please see your dentist first. Let him rule out decayed teeth/ infected gums/ mouth breathing as being the likely causes of your problem. If he finds no abnormalities he may ask you to consult an ENT Surgeon who will take the investigation forward.

Ans: Xerostomia, though not life-threatening, is serious enough to warrant examination and treatment. The symptoms, though trivial and manageable at first, could worsen if left untreated. So please do not neglect it. Please consult a dentist to rule out oral causative factors. Once those are ruled out it may be necessary to consult an ENT Surgeon and perhaps an Endocrinologist until the cause is known and suitable treatment initiated.

Ans: Hello
1.Yes, this is a permanent solution. Please note she'll have to continue wearing braces for some time even after the gap has closed. This is to ensure that the teeth have stabilised in their new positions and will not return to their original positions. If the braces are discontinued abruptly there is a chance of the gap reopening.
2. After the active treatment period and the stabilisation period are over there will be no restrictions and she can start eating and drinking like normal

Ans: Hello
The toothpaste you mentioned is a desensitizing toothpaste. It helps by forming a chemical barrier over the sensitive dentine, thus reducing the discomfort you feel when you have anything cold, sweet or sour. But it should be used daily for a sufficiently long period (typically a few weeks) to have the desired result.

Ans: Hello,
Tooth cleaning (Scaling and polishing) will not damage ceramic or natural tooth enamel. Please do not have any apprehensions on this issue. The equipment used for scaling (ultrasonic/piezo scalers) are designed to be very gentle and your dentist has the necessary skills to avoid causing any damage.

Ans: Hello
You can easily become a member of the Indian Dental Association (IDA) regardless of your current location of residence or practice.
Just follow this link and register
https://membership.ida.org.in/

Ans: Hello
Hypersalivation (excessive saliva production) can be caused by many factors. To find the root cause of your condition these factors will have to be systematically ruled out.
For a start, you could try switching your sleeping position and check if saliva still accumulates in your mouth. Like when you sleep on your back, for instance.
Next would be to consult your dentist to rule out tooth decay or gum infection. If that is ruled out you should consult your General Physician to check for other infections, allergies, other underlying conditions like acid reflux, respiratory infection, etc
The underlying cause, once determined, can easily be treated.

Ans: Hello

Please always buy toothpastes and toothbrushes marketed by reputed companies only. Because then you can be assured of some basic quality control.
Please note that most good toothpastes have nearly the same composition. The basic differences between them being colour and flavour. Please do not be carried away with tall claims or gimmicks such as addition of charcoal, clove or cooling crystals.
Ultimately, how healthy your teeth and gums remain will depend upon how regularly and how meticulously you brush your teeth. Not on the brand of toothpaste or toothbrush!
A few hints:
# Toothpastes containing *Fluoride* may reduce incidence of tooth decay.
# A pleasant tasting toothpaste may motivate you to brush regularly.
# Transparent (gel) toothpastes are less abrasive and cause less damage to tooth enamel.

# Toothbrushes with shorter heads (lesser number of bristles) have better access to nooks and crannies and may actually clean better than brushes with more bristles!
If your teeth are misaligned or crooked using a baby brush may help!
# Use *Medium* brushes. If your gums bleed, please consult your dentist. It is a sign your gums are not healthy. Do not automatically switch to Soft or Supersoft brushes.
# Change your brush when it "flowers" (when bristles curl)

Ans: Hello
Please always buy toothpastes and toothbrushes marketed by reputed companies only. Because then you can be assured of some basic quality control.
Please note that most good toothpastes have nearly the same composition. The basic differences between them being colour and flavour. Please do not be carried away with tall claims or gimmicks such as addition of charcoal, clove or cooling crystals.
Ultimately, how healthy your teeth and gums remain will depend upon how regularly and how meticulously you brush your teeth. Not on the brand of toothpaste or toothbrush!
A few hints:
# Toothpastes containing *Fluoride* may reduce incidence of tooth decay.
# A pleasant tasting toothpaste may motivate you to brush regularly.
# Transparent (gel) toothpastes are less abrasive and cause less damage to tooth enamel.

# Toothbrushes with shorter heads (lesser number of bristles) have better access to nooks and crannies and may actually clean better than brushes with more bristles!
If your teeth are misaligned or crooked using a baby brush may help!
# Use *Medium* brushes. If your gums bleed, please consult your dentist. It is a sign your gums are not healthy. Do not automatically switch to Soft or Supersoft brushes.
# Change your brush when it "flowers" (when bristles curl)

Ans: Hello
Please have her oral health evaluated by a dentist. There can be many causes for bad breath. It could be something simple like dehydration, or inadequate brushing. Or something a little more serious like decayed teeth, infected gums or even infections of the respiratory or digestive systems. Once the exact cause is determined it can easily be treated.

Ans: Hello
A bridge is an economical option to replace missing teeth provided you have strong, healthy anchor teeth on either side of the gap. But if, as you say, the remaining teeth are also not in good shape then implants should be considered. Please note your gums and jawbone should be healthy in order to support implants. Please consult a good Prosthodontist (a dentist who specialises in teeth replacement) to get your oral health evaluated and find the best solution

Ans: Hello
Orthodontic treatment (realignment of crooked teeth) should ideally be done by the late twenties or early thirties. As results are more predictable in younger patients. But it may still be possible at this stage. Please consult a competent Orthodontist who will evaluate the condition of your gums and bone and guide you

Ans: Hello.
No. A dentist is not supposed to prescribe hypertension medicines. He would ask you to consult a general physician for the same

Ans: Hi Arijit
A white coating on the tongue is usually caused by food debris, dead cells or bacteria. It can look scary but it usually isn't. Please use a soft brush or tongue scraper to clean the tongue and it should be good in a few days.
Bad breath or "halitosis" can have many causes such as decayed teeth, infected gums or even respiratory or gastrointestinal infections. A mouthwash can give only limited and transient relief. Please consult a better qualified dentist, or an ENT surgeon who should be able to identify the cause and find a permanent solution

Ans: Dear Rohit
Teeth cleaning done by trained dental professionals DOES NOT damage teeth or enamel. Even for removal of hard deposits (tartar/calculus) which have collected on teeth we use vibrating instruments known as ultrasonic or piezo scalers which cannot damage tooth enamel. Unlike the high-speed rotating diamond-tipped tools which we use for procedures that need cutting tooth structure. Hope this puts your doubts to rest.

Ans: Hello
The cost of treatment ranges from ?150000 to ?350000. The exact estimate can be given by a trained dental professional after a careful clinical evaluation. Please note that "Invisalign" is a brand. There are other brands of aligners and the cost of treatment may vary across brands

Ans: Hi Amol,
I understand your concern. Dry or chapped lips though usually not painful are expected to heal in a few days. Creams can only give temporary relief. The reason for your dry lips could be one of many. Dry weather or dehydration, for instance. Allergies, vitamin deficiency, hormonal imbalance or a mild infection.
A dermatologist (skin specialist) would be better qualified to diagnose and treat your condition.
Please consult a competent dermatologist. I'm sure your condition is treatable.

Ans: Hello
The most common causes for chapped lips are dry weather or dehydration. They should heal with a little self-help in 2 to 3 weeks. If they don't, there's a possibility of underlying conditions causing it. Such as vitamin deficiency or infection.
The same holds true for gum bleeding. If the bleeding was caused only by local factors such as build-up of tartar and poor oral hygiene then the bleeding should stop or at least reduce substantially after scaling. If it hasn't, we need to rule out underlying causes.
Both problems are easily treatable once the cause is identified. Please consult a competent dermatologist/dentist.

Ans: Hello
The burning sensation in your mouth raises the suspicion of a chronic infection. But this can be easily treated with the right medication (tablets and oral creams) which your dentist will prescribe after a thorough clinical examination.
Since you say you've had this for the last 2 months I suggest you see your dentist immediately.

Ans: Hello,
First of all your dentist will have to determine the cause of the discolouration after a careful examination. Only then can he advise you how it can be corrected. You may have to get your teeth cleaned (Scaling and polishing) by your dentist. In some cases, bleaching may be necessary. Do consult your dentist.

Ans: Hello Imran,
From your description it appears that your dentist built up and restored the damaged part of your tooth with bonded composite restorative material. It's normal for this material to fade, discolour or weaken over the years. The same procedure can be repeated if necessary

Ans: Hello Mahesh,
It is absolutely essential to chew on both sides. If you use only one side to masticate you are subjecting the teeth and muscles of that one side to undue pressure. It could lead to pain in the jaw muscles or joint.
If something is preventing you from biting on the other side kindly consult your dentist and get corrective treatment.