Dental Plaque Problems and How to Solve Them

When you roam inside a premium dental clinic in Makati, you will notice their company story, services and achievements up on their walls. However, what will truly get your attention are the posters with people who have perfect sets of pearly whites. How do you think they achieve that bright white and plaque-free teeth while you still have those yellow stains despite practicing proper oral hygiene? Does it have something to do with their genes? Is it magic or pure luck? Teeth discoloration can make you feel frustrated, insecure and hopeless sometimes. Fortunately, you don’t have to live with those negativities anymore! With today’s continuous development in dentistry and technology, finding an effective solution for you is a lot easier.

But before jumping into availing solutions (which we’ll tackle later on), it is very vital to understand the reasons behind your yellow-stained teeth first. Doing so will help you avoid future. Now go! Read on and learn.

WHY YOUR TEETH ARE PRONE TO YELLOWING AND PLAQUE

The dentin is one of the parts which is responsible for your tooth color. It can appear white, yellowish or grayish depending on your DNA and age. The other one is your tooth enamel. It is a semi-translucent protective layer that covers the dentin and your whole tooth. When the enamel is subjected to improper cleaning habits, vices and excessive intake of colored food and beverages, it becomes stained and damaged. A damaged enamel will then expose your dentin, which will eventually be stained and damaged too. Thus, the yellowing.

On the other hand, plaque is a biofilm (mass of bacteria) that grows in spaces between teeth and at the gumline. Its buildup is commonly caused by sugary and starchy foods, vices, medical conditions and usually, poor oral hygiene. When the plaque isn’t removed immediately, saliva hardens it and gives way to tartar, tooth decay and other complications.

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO REMOVE PLAQUE AND YELLOWING

The most important one is to keep practicing proper oral hygiene. Though people know how to brush their teeth,  many don’t follow the correct brushing technique.

We recommend using dental toothbrush instead of the traditional ones. A dental toothbrush is complete with a smaller head, softer bristles and a built-in tongue cleaner. It can go to hard-to-reach areas (like the tight spaces between teeth), remove stubborn plaque and give thorough cleaning without hurting the gums. Some dental clinics in Makati have this kind of brush so don’t be shy to ask your dentist.

For toothpaste, Colgate can is great for maintaining white teeth and reducing plaque buildup. They are also approved and recommended by the American Dental Association (ADA). Moreover, using a dental floss and rinsing with mouthwash after every meal to remove the food stuck between teeth and other plaque-causing bacteria.

However, some cases of plaque can’t be removed by brushing alone, especially the hardened ones. They require dental skills and tools. You can avail their teeth whitening (bleaching) and thorough cleaning services, designed to lighten the shade of your teeth and remove stubborn bacteria buildup.

THE TAKEAWAY

Your habits, the products you use, and your dentist’s procedures are the key to removing plaque and reduce yellowing. If you want to do more than just cleaning your teeth or have other dental issues, schedule your appointment at a premium dental clinic in Makati today. Your oral health solutions are just a few clicks away!

4 Products for Your Common Dental Problems

According to dentists in Makati, one of the first things that other people notice in us is our mouth. It is one of the most expressive parts of the face. We use it for smiling, communicating, eating and more. Our breath also leaves an impression on people. Due to that, we make sure our oral health is in good shape to avoid embarrassing situations and boost our overall confidence. We commit to practicing proper oral hygiene at home and work. However, when you’re on the go, keeping up with your oral hygiene habits is a challenge. Say, you’re on a date, an important meeting or an intimate dinner with your clients then you suddenly have food stuck in your teeth. Chances are, you don’t have your brush and toothpaste with you to clean your mouth. To help you with that, we have rounded up some handy products that can solve unexpected dental problems wherever you are and whenever you need it.

For bad breath

Bad breath is usually caused by poor hygiene, underlying medical conditions and hunger. But sometimes, it can also be due to the food you consume. For instance, you’re having lunch with your clients and the foods served are plates of seafood, while the other dishes are flavored with onion, garlic and spicy herbs. The distinct odor of these foods may linger in your mouth longer and cause bad breath. Avoid being a turn-off by bringing Watsons Sugar-Free Mint Breath Strips with you. You can take this breath strips after a meal to combat the strong odor and freshen your breath quickly.

For mouth sores

Accidentally biting your cheek, lip and tongue can induce stubborn mouth sores. These lesions are painful and can make your mouth swell. Severe cases can also affect your speech, change your eating habits and make brushing a hard task. When ignored, the salivary glands can also be at risk and make way for bigger bumps or mucoceles. To prevent these sores from getting worse, promptly apply Orajel Mouth Sores Gel. This product is formulated with astringents and antiseptics which provide instant pain relief and is proven to soothe sores.

For dentin hypersensitivity

When you eat food (hot dishes) or drink beverages (cold, sweet and acidic drinks) that trigger dentin hypersensitivity, sharp pain may follow. It is embarrassing to suddenly say ouch in the middle of an intimate dinner and a bad shot to refuse the food that you are served. Fortunately, Sensodyne Rapid Relief Toothpaste can now beat tooth sensitivity and let you enjoy the food you want. This toothpaste is recommended by dentists in Makati and works by soothing the nerve and sealing off the exposed dentine (bony tissue behind the protective layer of the teeth). Just brush with this before leaving your home to have long hours of protection.

For unexpected stains

Imagine being on a date, drinking a glass of wine, then flashing your smile. Instead of your charming smile, what your date sees is your yellow-stained teeth. Avoid this awkward scenario with the handy Crest 3D White Professional Effects Teeth Whitening Strips. Just excuse yourself, go to the washroom, apply it to your teeth for a few minutes, retouch your look, then remove it. Voila! Those yellow stains are now gone and you’re ready to flash those pearly whites again!

For stubborn food particles

Getting food stuck in your teeth is a challenge especially when there are no toothpicks to be found. It can lead to discomfort and tooth damage. Bring an Oral-B Waxed Mint Essential Floss with you to gently eliminate food particles, prevent excessive plaque build-up and keep tooth decay at bay.

Those are some products you can use to keep your good oral health. On top of that, regularly visit your dentist in Makati for premium dental care.

Factors Affecting When You Can Get Your Braces Off

A Filipino dentist does not only specialize in tooth extractions, dental cleaning and producing dentures. He is also well-versed in different procedures and do more than just concentrating on the teeth and gums. He improves and maintains one’s oral health, correct and cure dental issues and help in boosting the patient’s confidence. More importantly, a reliable Filipino dentist values the overall structure of the oral cavity (including the teeth, gums, bones, jaws and salivary glands). Thus his commitment is on giving the premium smile makeover to people who need it.

Talk about a smile makeover, one common procedure that they perform is affixing dental braces. Braces are suitable for people with crooked, overlapping or overcrowding teeth. These can also fill gaps, correct misaligned bites and improve dental aesthetics. However, many people find them to be a hassle because getting braces is a long-term treatment and requires high maintenance. Bands, brackets, adhesives, wires and elastics work by gradually moving the teeth and influencing the gums to a more aesthetically pleasing pattern. It can also hinder normal eating habits and subject the cheeks, tongue and lips to sores. The overall process also includes a series of examination, x-rays, the actual application of dental braces, adjustments, cleaning, and removal. It usually takes three (3) years before it’s advisable to take it off.

On the contrary, Filipino dentists say that this is not always the case as the duration of treatment varies depending on the oral cavity situation of the patient. Here, we will tackle several factors which may shorten or prolong the treatment.

1. Appointment

How many appointments do you make and how many do you miss? Regular visits are essential for the dentist to check your oral health, clean your cavity and adjust your wires. It can also be the key to prevent underlying conditions that can worsen and affect your braces. Missing your appointment leads to loose wires, bacteria build-up, yellowing of teeth and longer treatment. It also invites further complications. Treatment means commitment.

 

2. Hygiene

Having braces requires extra care. This means avoiding hard-to-chew foods, choosing non-acidic drinks, refraining from contact sports and dangerous activities, brushing your pearly whites regularly, flossing those thin spaces between teeth, and rinsing with mouthwash. Practicing proper oral hygiene keeps your oral cavity healthy and makes it easier for braces to do their job. Failure to do so can lead to infections and additional dental treatments that may delay your braces work.

 

3. Teeth Alignment

The positioning of your teeth mainly determines when you should take your braces off. According to Filipino dentists, some treatments may last up to only six (6) months if there are only minimal issues. Others can last for three years or more for patients that have a more complicated set of teeth. It also depends on how your oral cavity and body will respond to treatment. Every patient’s body is different and can respond to braces in different ways. Some are allergic to components of the braces which makes the treatment even harder and longer.

 

4. Overall Health

Your overall health is an important factor too! When one doesn’t have any vices and lives a healthy lifestyle, the person is not easily susceptible to infections or other systemic health issues that may affect the oral cavity. This can make the treatment take less time.

Above all these factors, your Filipino dentist has the final say on when exactly should you remove your braces as they are the ones who are skilled to do so. Just keep in mind that braces don’t give out instant results. It requires patience and commitment if you want your treatment to be successful.

5 Struggles of Having Metal Braces and How to Ease Them

We are not born with the same teeth. Just like our fingerprints, our oral cavity also has unique characteristics. The length, width, color and structure widely vary from person to person. According to the top orthodontists in Manila, the factors that affect how our teeth grow, as well as their position and appearance, are genes, injuries, tooth loss and habits.

Although our pearly whites are different from one another, we have the same goal of achieving a healthy mouth. Therefore, we strive to keep our oral cavity clean and correct other irregularities.  Fortunately, dental professionals introduced various products, tools and treatments that can help us achieve properly-aligned teeth. One of the most sought after procedures is having corrective metal braces.

Metal braces consist of brackets, wires and rubber bands that wrap around teeth to correct crooked teeth and misaligned bites (such as overbite, underbite, open bite, crowding and crossbite). These fixed appliances work by applying continuous gentle pressure to the teeth, gums and jaw to gradually move misaligned teeth to a different and more appropriate position. As the teeth move, the bone changes shape and results in better facial alignment and overall healthier mouth.

However, this is a meticulous treatment as one is required to go through three phases: the initial placement of metal braces, monthly adjustments and wearing of retainer after the removal of braces. Plus, struggles also come in the way and are experienced by millions of people who wear these fixed appliances. If you are one of those people, here are the solutions that will help you ease your discomfort:

For stubborn mouth sores

The brackets of metal braces usually rub to the surface of the lips and cheeks and result in superficial wounds and mouth sores. Accidentally biting the inner area of your lips and cheeks also induces these problems. To quickly cure them, it’s advisable to keep on practicing proper oral hygiene and use ointments rich in triamcinolone acetonide. Gels such as Oramedy and Orajel promises relief and gets rid of mouth sores in around 1-3 days.

For sensitive teeth

Braces make your pearly whites more sensitive to certain foods and drinks. Orthodontists remind their patients to avoid solid foods and acidic drinks as these may cause pain and stain in the teeth. Moreover, instead of eating a whole apple, chop it into smaller pieces. The same goes for other kinds of fruits which are hard to chew. To avoid damaging your braces and causing more pressure to your teeth, go for softer food choices such as soups, noodles, bananas and bread.

For continuous pain

It is normal to feel pain when one has braces especially after periodic adjustments as the teeth are moving gradually. However, if the pain is too much to tolerate that it gets in the way of your daily activities, you can get over-the-counter medicines to ease the pain. Mefenamic acid is the commonly prescribed relief by dentists. Make sure to consult your dental professional first to know the correct dosage and how often you can take it.

For having food stuck in between teeth and brackets

Another common dilemma is having food stuck in between your teeth and braces. Always brush your teeth and bring a toothpick or floss with you to get rid of those immediately.  If ignored, these food particles will cause further discomfort and bacteria buildup.

For excessive bacteria buildup

Since the oral cavity is harder to clean when wearing braces, patients are more prone to plaque buildup and eventually, tartar. This sticky film of bacteria can cause discoloration and may breakdown the bone supporting the tooth. To prevent these complications in the future, make sure to schedule your monthly adjustment, cleaning and check-up with your orthodontist. You can also avail deep cleaning and whitening procedures in various clinics of Manila to ensure that your dental health is in an optimal state.

Metal braces are effective in correcting the irregularities of the teeth. However, the success of the treatment still lies in the skills of the orthodontist and personal efforts of the person wearing braces. I it is best to avail services from top dental clinics of Manila and follow proper dental care instructions. Remember, having dental braces always require extra oral health care.

The Role of Dentists in Curing Your Oral Cancer

There are many types of cancer, and this makes it harder for health professionals, scientists and chemists to find a single cure that can defeat all cancer cells once and for all. Today, although our knowledge of cancer prevention and treatment is continuously increasing, the possibility of having cancer is not completely eliminated. According to health professionals, even cancer survivors are still at risk of experiencing cancer recurrence.

In a report presented by the World Health Organization, 9.6 million deaths last year are all due to cancer making it the second leading cause of death globally. Here in the Philippines, 96 cancer patients die every day. This number is higher compared to other countries as the lifestyle of Filipinos makes them more prone to risks to their health.

One of the most common types of cancer here in the Philippines is oral cancer, which is not surprising as millions of Filipinos are smoking cigarettes and drinking alcoholic beverages. These certain vices highly increase the likelihood of developing cancer. According to the top dentists of Manila, Philippines, the risk of having oral cancer and experiencing its severe stage can be significantly lowered if people have the initiative and the resources to live a healthy lifestyle. However, another mistake that people commonly do is to ignore the symptoms of oral cancer and then go to health professionals when it’s already a little too late.

If oral cancer is discovered earlier, it can be treated easily. That is why your dentists play a huge role in treating oral cancer. Dentists are not just about keeping your teeth and gums healthy, they can also uncover important clues about your overall well-being. A regular appointment with a dentist can save you money, time, and most importantly, your health. They can help us in our journey on preventing and curing oral cancer.

Screening and Prevention

Premium dental clinics in Manila, Philippines have advanced tools which dentists use to carry out oral cancer screening. This examination is performed to look for signs of cancer and other precancerous conditions in your mouth such as lesions, bleeding gums and abnormal patches. The goal of this screening is to identify the presence of oral cancer immediately so that there will be a bigger chance to cure and prevent it from reaching a critical stage.

Treatment

Upon finding dental issues that may be linked to oral cancer, you will undergo a biopsy to have your cells checked and then the treatment begins. In Manila, Philippines, several dentists have extended their studies and became licensed oral surgeons who specialize in removing tumors. They can tell you what other tests or treatments you may need. They can also work closely with your primary doctor to help manage your follow-up care.

Reconstruction

Amid the huge damage on your oral cavity caused by cancer, your dentist can still perform different procedures to restore it. Their tools, equipment and skills can aid your tooth loss, afflicted gums and misaligned bones.

You and your dentist can create the best strategy for fighting oral cancer. From screening and prevention to treatment and reconstruction, your dentist can help you all the way. Hence, make sure to find time to regularly visit your dentist in Manila, Philippines to check your dental health and overall well-being!

Products and Dental Services To Cure Bad Breath

Bad breath, medically known as halitosis, is a common oral issue that people experience in the form of minor and superficial breath problems or as a medical condition. Anyone can suffer from it! According to reports, this dental issue affects 1 in 4 people globally. Aside from giving the unpleasant odor, halitosis can also cause significant psychological distress such as worrying, embarrassment, anxiety, and even social withdrawal. Fortunately, there are several dental products and services which can help eliminate bad breath and keep the mouth healthy.

Here are some of the products and services which are highly recommended by premium dental clinics in Makati.

Products

1. Toothbrush (with a cheek and tongue cleaner)

Studies show that brushing cleans around sixty percent of the surface of the tooth. Hence, bacteria still find a way to stay in the cheeks and coat the tongue. To scrape away bacteria effectively, try using a toothbrush with a cheek and tongue cleaner. It cleans better than a regular toothbrush as it is specially designed to clean the smooth surface of the teeth and the rough exterior of the tongue.  You can get them at stores nationwide. You can also order through online shopping sites such as Lazada.

 

Check the features and advantages of this toothbrush:

 

 

2. Dental Floss

The tiny gaps between the teeth are hard to reach and clean and that’s exactly what floss is for. Floss prevent plaque buildup by accessing hard to reach areas and removing food particles. It is advisable to properly floss once a day to improve the health of teeth and gums. Here’s a step-by-step guide provided by the American Dental Association.

You can also watch how to do it here:

 

3. Mouthwash

Many find it difficult to maintain fresh breath. Though candies and mints temporarily help, these don’t typically improve oral health as they have sugar compounds which encourage tooth damage. Mouthwash is an effective product for controlling plaque, removing food particles and improving breath. It also contributes to preventing tooth decay and cavities. What’s also great about it is that it also comes in a handy bottle; bring it wherever you are! Check some brands of mouthwash here.

(Source: Lazada)

Services

1. Tooth Extraction

Tooth decay is known as the softening of the tooth enamel leading to tooth damage. This is commonly caused by acids and bacteria that encourage plaque and mineral loss. If not immediately treated or extracted, it may lead to complications such as bad breath and infections. Visit the best dental clinics in Makati regularly so that damage teeth may be cleaned out, saved if possible or extracted if they’re too far gone.

2. Dental Cleaning

Stains, tartar and yellowing on the teeth are hard to remove even with a thorough brushing.  The good news is dental clinics are now armed with state-of-the-art equipment and high-end products that will help alleviate these problems. The lasers and bleaching agents used by dentists are guaranteed to clean the mouth, whiten the teeth and kill bacteria thereby lessening or eliminating bad breath. And the greater news is that one session only takes 30 minutes! It’s a quick and easy way to ensure good oral health.

Make sure to avail these products and services recommended by premium dental clinics in Makati so you can keep halitosis and other dental problems at bay!

What Are Common Causes of Bad Breath?

 

Bad breath (halitosis), defined as an unpleasant smell coming from the mouth, is a common problem in the Philippines. According to statistics, fifty percent of adults have had bad breath at some points of their lives. What’s more alarming is that twenty-five percent of people around the world are also affected. Some experience it during mornings, when hungry and when ill. Although people think that bad breath is a normal issue, dentists in Makati remind that it’s important to know the other underlying causes to prevent further dental problems. After all, halitosis can also be a symptom of other serious medical conditions.

But first, how will you know if you currently have halitosis? One way to assess is to ask a close friend or relative to gauge your mouth odor. But if you find this act uncomfortable, you can check your breath through licking your wrist, leave it to dry and then smell it. If you find the smell unpleasant, then it suggests that you have halitosis. Here are some of the reasons why:

1. Improper Oral Hygiene

According to dentists in Makati, the primary root of dental problems is improper oral hygiene. This is characterized by poor brushing habits and improper flossing which lead to faster and thicker bacteria build-up (plaque, tartar and decay). If neglected, it will also eventually cause severe issues such as bleeding gums, chewing problems, infections and in some cases, tooth loss. In line with this, dentures and braces that are also not cleaned regularly also contribute to halitosis.

 

2. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

Ever wondered why halitosis is commonly experienced during mornings, hunger and sickness?  This is because these three events cause a decrease in saliva production. Saliva is a natural mouth cleaner and works around the clock to help remove particles that cause bad odors. However, if one’s mouth doesn’t produce enough saliva, it would leave a parched feeling and would also contribute to bad breath.

 

3. Diseases

If you practice proper oral hygiene, regularly see the dentist and keep your mouth hydrated but halitosis still persists, then you probably have an underlying condition. Diseases such as sinus infections, diabetes, gastric reflux, cancer and bronchitis may trigger bad breath.

 

4. Food and Drinks

What you eat and drink highly influence the air you exhale. Garlic, onion, spicy foods, cheeses, fish and acidic beverages leave a lingering smell. This happens because after these foods are digested, their breakdown products are carried in the blood and then to the lungs. Most of the time, the unpleasant odor caused by these foods is short lived. However, if these foods are stuck in the teeth and got the chance to coat the tongue, bacteria build-up and dental plaque will increase, and your breath will also stink.

 

5. Smoking

Smoking also risks dental health. Tobacco products stain the teeth, reduce your ability to taste foods, irritate gum tissues, and leave you with bad breath. Smoking also increases the chances of developing mouth infections and diseases.

Those are some of the reasons why one likely has halitosis. Make sure to practice good oral hygiene, keep the mouth hydrated, monitor your overall health, watch what you eat, prevent vices and regularly see your  dentist in Makati to eliminate bad breath and keep your dental health in the best state.

Dental Clinic Spotlight: Dental World Manila

With over 5 clinics around Manila, all having state-of-the-art equipment, Dental World Manila ensures patients that they will enjoy their time under the clinic’s relatively affordable services and procedures.

The clinic is headed by Dr. Malony L. Santos of St. Luke’s Medical Center who is a registered member of the Philippine Dental Association, American Association for Functional Orthodontics, Philippine Academy of Esthetic Dentistry and other reputable dental organizations.

Dental World Manila not only caters locally but also to foreign travelers who keep coming back to have their dental treatment done. These people are often called ‘dental tourists,’ and they’ve received the best dental care here—the primary reason why they are returning to the country.

See: Elpheal’s Dental World Manila Review

Dental World Manila was actually three separate clinics which were MLS Dental Clinic, ML Santos Dental Cosmetics, and the TMJ center. So if you’ve visited any of these before, they are Dental World Manila now, consolidated into one brand.

 

Their Services

Dental World Manila’s services are plenty and are relatively cheap for the high-quality services. Services are cheap considering that all their services are state-of-the-art quality and with professional dentists at the ready.

The services in general are:

• Cosmetic Dentistry
• Prosthodontics
• Orthodontics
• TMJ Dysfunction
• Restoration
• Endodontics
• Dental Implants
• Oral Exams
• Oral Surgery
• X-Ray Services
• CBCT Scan

You can inquire now and get discounts for doing so. You needn’t worry about the quality of the procedures as they have dentists trained both locally and abroad and only operate on the latest equipment and facilities.

Their services in detail can be seen here.

As mentioned, Dental World operates 5 clinics across Metro Manila which is very convenient since you’re getting the same quality treatment with the added benefit of convenience if a clinic happens to be near you.

These clinics are located in the following areas:

• Luke’s Medical Center Quezon City
• Glorietta Mall Makati
• Centuria Medical Makati
• SM Mall of Asia Complex
• SM City North Edsa

Now you can reach them wherever you are around Metro Manila. Go ahead and try their dental services and you’d be surely satisfied with the results and come home with a beautiful smile!

Be sure to check their website and Facebook page right here:

http://www.dentalworld.com.ph/

https://www.facebook.com/DentalWorldManila/

 

The Secret to Xander Ford’s Celebrity Smile: Dental Veneers

Marlou’s Dental Veneers

Former Hasht5 member Marlou Arizala recently shookt the Philippines with his major transformation. Now Xander Ford, the social media personality has finally achieved his #ArtistaGoals, flashing his improved look and killer smile in front of fans during the big revelation. And if you’re wondering how Xander achieved his celebrity smile, it’s all thanks to his new dental veneers.

(Screengrab from Rated K: Meet Xander Ford segment)

Xander underwent a dental procedure wherein wafer-thin shell materials called dental veneers were placed on the surface of his teeth. These shells, according to WebMD, are bonded to the teeth to improve one’s appearance by changing their color, shape, size, or length.

These custom-made shells are applied to fix certain dental issues including discolored, worn down, chipped, or broken teeth. It can also fix gapped, misaligned, uneven, or irregularly shaped teeth.

In Xander’s case, having DIY braces for long, which was a craze among teens in the Philippines a few years back, has caused him improper bites. Improper bites due to misaligned teeth can interfere with proper chewing, increase the risk of tooth decay, cavities & gingivitis, and increase the risk of breaking a tooth. With dental veneers, the internet sensation did not only improve his appearance but also fixed the said dental problem.

The dental procedure often requires three trips to the dentist. During these visits, the patient undergoes diagnosis & treatment planning, preparation of the veneers, and bonding them to the surface of the teeth. The dentist will also need to remove about half millimeter of the tooth surface where the veneers will be bonded.

By undergoing the dental veneers procedure and other cosmetic surgeries, Xander Ford was able to achieve the celebrity smile and look he’s been dreaming of (as compared with the old Marlou). He’s decision to undergo such excruciating process to improve his appearance sure created a buzz in the Philippines. The people may have received the transformation differently, but if it satisfies Marlou—or Xander, rather—and made a huge impact to his confidence, who are we to judge? We’re glad the operation was a success & he got the looks he wanted.