tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50040920454016288712024-03-08T08:29:11.835-08:00Discount Dental Plans - True Dental DiscountsUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger57125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-45951175217365753932015-03-18T12:48:00.000-07:002015-03-18T12:48:00.335-07:00Think before ordering hearing aids onlineAlthough it is possible to purchase hearing aids online or by mail order, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association advises people not to order their hearing aids through these methods. Instead, American Speech-Language-Hearing Association recommends that people with <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">hearing loss</a> schedule an appointment with an audiologist. <br /><br />Audiologists, like the ones available to you through True Dental Discounts, offer professional care and a host of services that mail-order companies cannot provide. For instance, patients who talk to an audiologist can learn how to properly use their hearing aid in different circumstances. They also have access to an audiologist’s repair and rehabilitation services and the follow-up care that is often required when facing issues of hearing loss. <br /><br />Finally, in some cases, patients with <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">hearing loss</a> require medical treatment, and an audiologist can give the proper referrals for those treatments. Hearing loss is a serious issue and should not be taken lightly. Fortunately, as a True Dental Discounts member, you have access to quality audiologists at a significantly reduced rate. Take advantage of that opportunity!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-80003632926558521402015-03-16T12:45:00.000-07:002015-03-16T12:45:00.716-07:00What is a periodontist?Just as it’s important to go to the dentist regularly, it’s also important to consult specialists like a periodontist if you notice symptoms of <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">gum disease</a>. Periodontists specialize in periodontal – or gum – disease and can help patients identify, treat and later prevent this type of disease. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, periodontists must receive an extra three years of training on top of regular dental school. <br /><br />This extensive training helps prepare them to use new techniques and perform cosmetic procedures. The Academy recommends that people schedule a periodontal evaluation regularly to check for signs of <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">gum disease</a>. Such signs include receding gums, bleeding after brushing or flossing, swollen gums, and persistent bad breath. By being proactive and consulting a peridontist, patients can avoid waiting until they are referred by their regular dentist for an existing problem.
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-25549206486498525922015-03-12T12:38:00.000-07:002015-03-12T12:38:00.248-07:00The importance of fluoride for childrenYou may have heard your dentist talk about the need for fluoride, but have you ever paused to consider exactly what it does? Fluoride is an element that is used to prevent tooth decay by strengthening a person’s teeth. By hardening <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">molars </a>and other teeth, fluoride helps to prevent cavities in adults and children alike. However, it is especially important for children to get enough fluoride because their teeth are still growing and are prone to decay. <br /><br />Fluoride is found naturally in water and some foods, but most people get supplements from products like toothpaste and mouth wash. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry suggests that most children up to age 16 may need some time of fluoride supplement. It’s important to talk to your dentist about your child’s dietary and oral hygiene habits in order to determine a need for extra fluoride. <br /><br />Children who consume large amounts of sugar or have a history of decay are especially at risk. If it is decided that a fluoride supplement is needed, a dentist will use one of several options. He may use water fluoridation or also suggest a topical treatment in the form of a gel or foam. These treatments are applied at the office and are considered to be both safe and effective. <br /><br />Only a small amount of <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">fluoride</a> is needed to make a difference, but the earlier a child’s teeth can be treated, the better. Keep this in mind as you consider asking your dentist about your children’s fluoride needs. A little treatment now could save them many cavities down the road.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-5670484195712173122015-03-10T12:33:00.000-07:002015-03-10T12:33:00.058-07:00Oral health and its link to adequate nutritionAs we age, it becomes increasingly important to maintain a healthy diet and consume the proper amount of vitamins in order to remain in good health. Older adults are particularly susceptible to nutrient-deficient conditions, such as osteoporosis and anemia. In response to this need, researchers for the Journal of the American Dental Association studied a group of seniors ages 79 and older and analyzed their diets. What they found has since shed more light on the need for oral hygiene. <br /><br />In this study, seniors who had fewer natural and healthy teeth were found to have poorer dietary habits and higher nutrient deficiencies. This same conclusion was drawn about older adults who do not have properly fitting dentures. In both cases, the seniors who maintained good oral hygiene and had either natural teeth or well-fitting <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">dentures</a> were more likely to eat a variety of foods and, consequently, consume a wider range of vitamins throughout the day.<br />
<br />Based on this study, the researchers at JADA concluded that it is important to encourage dental hygiene as a person ages in order to avoid needing dentures. In the event that a person does need dentures, however, it’s equally important that he is educated about the proper use and fit of false teeth. <br /><br />One way to achieve this is by encouraging a healthy exchange of communication between older adults and their dentists. If you or someone in your family seems to not be eating as well due to deteriorating or ill-fitting teeth, make an appointment with your <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">True Dental Discounts</a>, dentist to talk about your options. Your dentist will be able to give you suggestions on taking proper care of your teeth as you age and can also make sure any dentures you already have are the correct size and shape for your mouth. By taking advantage of this link between oral hygiene and nutrition, you can make maintaining your health both simple and affordable.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-49839497703321504682015-03-06T12:27:00.000-08:002015-03-06T12:27:00.714-08:00What is a generic medication?Generic medications are generally created after the patent of a name-brand medication has expired. At this time, pharmaceutical companies can get the approval of the FDA to sell an equivalent product under a new name. The Generic Pharmaceutical Association explains that in order for a pharmaceutical manufacturer to be approved to market a generic drug, the drug must contain the same active ingredient; be identical in strength and dosage; and be equal in strength, purity and quality. <br /><br />It also must be manufactured under the same strict regulations as the brand-name drug.
Generic drugs can be found by asking your doctor or pharmacist about their availability. In general, most prescriptions can be substituted with a generic alternative, but it's always a good idea to check ahead of time. The FDA website, allows consumers to search by drug name to get detailed information about each drug on the market. Because of the FDA's strict guidelines about the making of generic drugs, consumers should be assured that their generic drugs will be of the same quality and effectiveness as the brand name product. <br /><br />The Generic Pharmaceutical Association cautions people to not be thrown off by a difference in color or presentation; often, this is just to respect the patent of the original drug. Cosmetic differences will not impact the functionality of any prescription. For more information about purchasing generic medicines, talk to your pharmacist or doctor about the options available to you. Generic drugs are a great way to maximize your savings, especially when you combine them with your True Dental Discounts, <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">prescription discount card</a>.
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-90102652305586939902014-12-25T08:17:00.000-08:002014-12-25T08:17:00.186-08:00The advantages of X-rays at the dentistIf you’ve ever seen an X-ray photo of your mouth, you’ve probably noticed that your teeth appear much lighter than the rest of the surfaces. This is because <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/dental-procedures/discount-dental-xrays.php" target="_blank">X-rays</a> cannot penetrate hard surfaces like teeth as easily as they can gums and tissue. But why is it so important to get these high-tech photos of your mouth? The main reason is because many oral health problems cannot easily be detected during a normal examination. <br /><br />It’s possible for a patient to have spots of decay that are not visible to the dentist. By looking at an X-ray, dentists can look for signs of decay between teeth, gum disease, bone infections, and many other serious conditions, including hidden tumors. The American Dental Association suggests that children are especially good candidates for X-rays, as their teeth are still developing and are more prone to tooth decay. Another benefit of X-rays is that patients can save time and money by catching any hidden problems early. <br /><br />X-rays may even help someone avoid having to undergo the complicated procedures that advanced-stage conditions often require. Talk to your dentist about your <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/dental-procedures/discount-dental-xrays.php" target="_blank">X-ray</a> schedule and ask if you (<i>or your children</i>) are due for another screening. A little extra time in the chair at your next visit could pay off dramatically down the road.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-810624961719127162014-12-23T08:13:00.000-08:002014-12-23T08:13:00.494-08:00Biting your tongue and cheeksEveryone has accidentally bitten his tongue while eating or woken up with a small mark on the inside of his cheek. But what do you do if this nuisance becomes a common occurrence? Many people frequently bite the inside of their mouth during sleep or while eating, but the causes vary. In some cases, it is due to misalignment of the teeth or poor <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">denture</a> fitting. <br /><br />In that situation, the teeth can overlap with the person’s tongue, increasing the chance of a bite. In other cases, a person may constantly breathe with his mouth open, leading to a slightly swollen tongue, which can again lead to accidental bites. In some rare cases, a person may also have seizures, causing him to involuntarily bite his tongue or cheek. Regardless of the reason, though, constant wounds in the mouth can become more than just annoying.<br /><br /> Over time, biting can lead to scars and decreased sensitivity, so it is important to treat the bites properly and speak with a dentist about preventing future occurrences. He or she will help you identify the cause of the biting and hasten the time until you can eliminate the bites altogether.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-43505051329175474262014-12-19T08:11:00.000-08:002014-12-19T08:11:00.447-08:00Communicating openly with your eye doctorSometimes the things you don’t say can be just as powerful as the ones you do. In the case of going to the eye doctor, keeping an open and honest line of communication is vitally important to protecting your vision. Often, people will neglect to tell their <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/visioncare.htm" target="_blank">eye doctor</a> important information about their health, including problems with high blood pressure, diabetes and asthma. <br /><br />They may also remain silent about a family history with cardiovascular disease or stroke. While these health concerns may not seem immediately related to vision care, it is absolutely important to tell your eye doctor about your entire medical history. If an <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/visioncare.htm" target="_blank">ophthalmologist</a> is unaware of prior medical conditions, he or she may not be able to recommend the correct treatments or medications. This can lead to serious health consequences if you are prescribed medications with conflicting side effects or are allergic to a certain substance. <br /><br />Before you go to your next eye appointment, make a list of any questions you want to ask your doctor, and bring along a sheet that outlines your medical history. It’s normal to want to say everything is fine when the doctor asks how a current treatment is working, but doctors appreciate honesty about your health. Being open about your struggles and conditions will allow you to be treated more safely and effectively. So, the next time you visit your eye doctor, speak up. The health of your eyes and body depends on it. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-12021918248105847872014-12-17T08:06:00.000-08:002014-12-17T08:06:00.089-08:00When is it time to replace a filling?If you've ever gone to the dentist and were told you needed to get a <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">tooth filling</a>, you're certainly not alone. Millions of people receive fillings each year in order to replace a section of a tooth that eventually decayed. However, even with modern dental advancements, all fillings need to be replaced at some point. The Journal of the American Dental Association suggests that unless fillings are replaced in a timely manner, gaps can be created between the filling and the tooth, allowing bacteria to enter the tooth. <br />
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Left untreated, that bacteria can result in the need of a root canal, or worse, removal of the entire tooth. To avoid these unpleasant consequences, it's a good idea to visit your dentist regularly so he or she can test the strength of your current fillings. The American Dental Association makes it clear that early detection is vital because it reduces your chance of needing more intrusive and expensive procedures. Your dentist can tell you at your appointment if there has been excessive wear or cracks in a filling. In that case, you will need to get it replaced as soon as possible. <br />
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Talk to your dentist about what's right for you and how long it will be before you should expect to replace one or more of your fillings. Fortunately, modern technology has increased the quality and appearance of fillings, so if you do need to get a replacement, it will likely last longer and serve you better than your previous ones. And with your True Dental Discounts - <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">dental plan</a> you will be able to get the treatments you need for a price you can afford.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-32566714927257008782014-12-15T08:04:00.000-08:002014-12-15T08:04:00.650-08:00Recognizing and treating toothachesIn its most basic form, a toothache is described as having pain in or around a tooth. If you've ever experienced this type of pain, you know it can grow from a mere annoyance to being a full-fledged medical problem. Usually, toothaches are caused by tooth decay and cavities, but they can also result from an infection. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health, tooth decay is caused by a combination of poor dental hygiene and genetics.<br /><br /> However, a toothache can also be a sign of an earache, abscessed tooth, jaw or mouth injury, or even a heart attack. To treat the pain, it is recommended that you contact your dentist immediately to schedule an appointment. The benefit for you, as a True Care customer, is that you can be assured that you will get pain relief at a significantly reduced cost.
To help ease the pain during the time it takes to get in for an appointment, over-the-counter pain medications can also be taken. If the <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">toothache</a> is caused by a decayed tooth, your dentist may suggest such treatments as antibiotics or a root canal.<br /><br /> As a final note, it's especially vital that you seek medical care if your toothache is causing you severe pain, if it lasts longer than one or two days, or if it is accompanied by a fever or earache. Your dentist will be able to treat the symptoms and can even take X-rays if the cause is not easily determined. Be prepared to answer questions about the frequency and strength of the pain, any associating symptoms, and factors that worsen the pain (<i>for instance: drinking, consuming cold liquids, or chewing</i>). <br /><br />If you have any doubts, the best course of action is always to seek the advice of a professional. This will save you from experiencing ongoing pain around your teeth and restore you to full health.
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-40469525003936180152014-10-31T10:33:00.000-07:002014-10-31T10:33:00.177-07:00Balancing: It’s all in your earsEven the simplest action, like walking, is affected by a person’s sense of balance. This balance comes from a complex combination involving the visual system and kinesthetic senses, along with one other important area: the inner ear.<br />
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According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, without those three parts working in concert, a person becomes dizzy and loses their sense of balance. The <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/aetna-dental-access.htm" target="_blank">inner ear</a> plays a critical role in balance, and any disturbances, such as calcium deposits, can affect a person’s balance. Some other causes of dizziness include Meniere’s Disease, certain drugs, and head trauma.<br />
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In order to determine what is causing a person to lose their balance, a doctor may conduct a balance assessment to monitor any changes and detect the site of the problem. Symptoms of balance issues include having rapid, involuntary eye movements; vertigo and dizziness; and difficulty or awkward walking/running.<br />
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If you suspect you may have problems with your balance, talk to your doctor about the health of your <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/aetna-dental-access.htm" target="_blank">inner ear</a>. He or she can assess your condition and determine the existence of any abnormalities. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-40518642697625322132014-10-29T10:30:00.000-07:002014-10-29T10:30:02.423-07:00Signs of a great toothbrushYou know how important it is to brush your teeth twice a day to fight plaque and cavities -- but are you using the right brush? In reality, every person’s mouth is different, which means everyone needs different traits in a <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/dental-procedures/how-to-select-toothbrush.php" target="_blank">toothbrush</a>.<br />
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For instance, look at the size of your mouth: If you have a generally small mouth, it’s a good idea to find a brush with a small head. Small-headed brushes allow you to angle the brush more effectively in a small space and can get into hard-to-reach corners. In terms of the handle of the brush, look for one with a good grip. Handles are made to fit in varying-sized hands, so make sure the one you pick fits nicely in yours.<br />
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If you have arthritis, pay special attention to the surface of the handle and select one that won’t slip easily. Finally, when it comes to the bristles, most people benefit from a brush that is soft, but not too soft. Packages specifically labeled “<i>soft</i>” are generally not the right choice, unless your dentist recommends it for you. Instead, look for ones that feature “<i>medium</i>” bristles. These ones will not be so rigid that they hurt your gums, but they will also stand up under pressure and remove plaque effectively.<br />
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If you have any questions about choosing the right brush, talk to a dentist on your True Dental Discounts - <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">dental plan</a>. He or she can recommend the right brush for your mouth and even give you pointers about improving your technique.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-87146123995762564502014-10-27T10:27:00.000-07:002014-10-27T10:27:00.084-07:00Your vision during nighttime drivingAs we age, our eyes naturally start to change. You may find it harder to read at a distance, have trouble seeing in low-light situations, or notice that your vision becomes blurred – all of which can dramatically affect your nighttime driving skills. To help keep you safe on the road, the American Optometric Association recommends driving only on familiar, well-lit streets.<br />
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Because darkness can make it harder to distinguish objects and determine distances, older drivers should be extra careful when approaching intersections. It is also important to remove any distractions while driving at night, including the radio and cell phones. According to the American Optometric Association, keeping the windshield clean – don’t forget the inside! – can also help your <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/visioncare.htm" target="_blank">vision</a>. In any situation, it is always better to stay home or call a friend if you have doubts about driving in the dark.<br />
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Minimizing your driving from dusk to dawn can reduce the chance of getting in an accident or another unexpected incident. Talk to an eye doctor on your True Dental Discounts - <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/visioncare.htm" target="_blank">vision plan</a> about any concerns you may have about your vision as it relates to driving. The American Optometric Association recommends adults over age 61 schedule a comprehensive eye exam each year, so don’t wait.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-48434158764274855712014-10-23T10:23:00.000-07:002014-10-23T10:23:00.032-07:00My child has hearing loss – now what?Once a child has been diagnosed with any form of hearing loss, the parent’s next step is critical. In most cases, parents must work with a team of professionals to learn what to expect and how to adapt. According to the National Institute on Deafness and other Communicative Disorders, the child’s primary care provider can refer parents to an audiologist, an ear/nose/throat doctor, and a genetic specialist.<br />
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This team can help determine the cause of the <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">hearing loss</a> and recommend a course of treatment, if possible. Parents should expect to answer questions about the child’s pre-natal and birth history, as well as the family’s medical history. In addition to this information, specialists may recommend further testing of the child, including genetic tests and balance or eye examinations.<br />
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All of these tests can help narrow down the cause of the hearing loss and potentially point to a treatment plan. For this reason, it is very important that you talk to a medical professional about your child’s hearing. An audiologist can guide you through the needed appointments and help your family adapt to any changes. Call today to find out how you can save money on these appointments with your True Dental Discounts - <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">dental plan</a>.
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-8050489423645661262014-10-21T10:18:00.000-07:002014-10-21T10:18:00.075-07:00Latex allergies and your oral healthPeople who frequently come into contact with products containing natural rubber latex may develop an allergy to this common ingredient. While typically found in household products like balloons, pacifiers, tires, and shoes, latex is also found in many medical items like masks, gloves, and bandages. <br /><br />Because of this, it is important to identify any sensitivity you may have toward latex and inform your health care professional. According to the American Dental Association, people at increased risk of developing latex allergies include health care workers, those who have undergone numerous surgeries, and rubber industry workers. <br /><br />Someone with a sensitivity to latex products may exhibit symptoms ranging from minor irritations like nasal congestion to severe anaphylaxis that could be life-threatening if not treated. If you know or suspect you are allergic to natural rubber latex, be sure to tell your True Dental Discounts - <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">dental plan</a> dentist prior to your next appointment. <br /><br />He or she will then make a note to use latex-free alternatives at all subsequent visits to protect you from a reaction. For more information, talk to your doctor or dentist about your symptoms and their possible causes. Together, you can work to create the optimal environment for your health.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-67360846286045060662014-08-14T10:30:00.000-07:002014-08-14T10:30:01.106-07:00The connection between earaches and nervesAccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, earaches are one of the most common conditions in young children, with more than 70 percent experiencing at least one earache before the age of 3. In most cases, doctors treat this condition with antibiotics; however, new research has shown that the cause of many earaches is actually irritation of the small nerves in the spine. As described by Chiropractic America, “<i>When these nerve endings are irritated, an abnormal tension is produced in the small muscles of the neck. This muscle tension can place pressure on the lymphatic drainage ducts resulting in inadequate drainage from inside the ear, thus preventing the body from being able to naturally correct the problem</i>.”<br /><br />
A chiropractor will look for increased tension in the neck and any misalignment of the vertebrae. Often, these issues are caused by the normal wear-and-tear a child experiences during play. Through simple adjustments to the child’s neck muscles and spinal vertebrae, a chiropractor can help lymph drainage return to normal and remove the cause of the earache. This way, by visiting a chiropractor on their True Dental Discounts <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">hearing care plan</a> instead of filling a prescription, parents can avoid overmedicating their children and wasting money on ineffective antibiotics.
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-45020505253246502722014-08-13T10:24:00.000-07:002014-08-13T10:24:00.214-07:00The link between chiropractic care and a healthy immune systemChiropractors have known for years that taking care of your spinal health can lead to better physical health, as well. Now, research is uncovering the same link. A study in the Journal of Physiological and Manipulative Therapeutics showed that the health of a person’s immune system may be directly affected by the health of a person’s nervous system. <br /><br />In the study, white blood cells were shown to have receptor sites for chemicals produced by the nervous system. According to Chiropractic America, this suggests that white blood cells can communicate with the nervous system. Researchers concluded that spinal misalignments can cause harm to a person’s immune system by interrupting the link between the nervous system and immune system. <br /><br />People who visit their chiropractor regularly may be able to stay healthier by restoring that communication and correcting any interruptions. Use your <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">True Dental Discounts</a> plan to find a chiropractor who can help you learn more about the connection between a healthy immune system and chiropractic care. By using your plan, you can save a lot of money on preventative care that can help increase your overall wellness and happiness.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-85658743974135046602014-08-12T10:23:00.000-07:002014-08-12T10:23:00.239-07:00What should I know about sedation at the dentist?Although most dental visits are for preventative purposes and require no anesthesia, in some cases, you may need to undergo a more complex procedure. In such an instance, your dentist may recommend using anesthesia. Depending on the procedure, you may need just a simple sedative to help you relax. These include anti-anxiety agents and can be applied along with a local sedative, according to the American Dental Association. <br /><br />Once provided, a patient will become moderately sedated but will still be responsive to touch or verbal instructions. For more complex procedures – such as tooth extractions – your dentist may recommend drugs to induce a deep sedation. Under this type of sedation, a patient loses feeling in the intended area and reaches a reduced state of consciousness. Some patients also elect to undergo general anesthesia, which causes the patient to lose complete consciousness for the duration of the procedure. <br /><br />This is often used during wisdom tooth extraction, but the American Dental Association suggests it can also be used for children who have extreme anxiety at the dentist or for people with disabilities that make it difficult to control movement. In order to make safety the highest priority during procedures with anesthesia, you as the patient should be sure to communicate the following information to your <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">True Dental Discounts</a> dentist ahead of time:<br />
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<li>Any current or past illnesses or health conditions; </li>
<li>Any medications taken, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements; </li>
<li>Any allergies to medications. </li>
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With this information, your dentist can help you make informed decisions about your dental care.
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-72633871425367784682014-06-30T10:27:00.000-07:002014-06-30T10:27:00.487-07:00Does your child need space maintainersOne of the primary purposes of a child’s “<i>baby teeth</i>” is to reserve space for the adult teeth growing underneath. Typically, baby teeth fall out once the adult tooth begins pushing its way through the surface and is ready to emerge. However, in some cases, children may have a baby tooth removed early if they get it knocked out in an accident or have it removed due to dental decay. When this happens, there is a chance that the tooth underneath is not yet ready to emerge, causing a gap to be present in the tooth line. Unfortunately, some adult teeth do not grow in until the child is 12-14 years old, and your pediatrician may be concerned about later problems with the permanent teeth that could be caused by the gap. <br /><br />According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, when baby teeth are lost too soon, adjacent teeth may try to fill the space by tilting or drifting toward the gap. This is a problem because baby teeth often guide the permanent teeth into place, meaning a child may end up with a crowded or crooked smile once their adult teeth have emerged. To avoid this scenario, a pediatric dentist on your True Dental Discounts <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">dental plan</a> will likely suggest space maintainers. Space maintainers are made out of either metal or plastic and are custom-made to fit into a child’s mouth. The purpose of a space maintainer is to keep the gap left by a baby tooth open and to prevent movement of the other teeth. The AAPD suggests that it is much easier to correct the problem in advance with space maintainers than to fix it afterward with extensive orthodontic treatment. <br /><br />Once a child’s adult tooth has successfully emerged and taken its natural place, the space maintainer is removed. Until then, it is important that the child: avoids gum and sticky foods; keeps the space maintainer clean with regular brushing and flossing; does not pull or try to adjust the space maintainer; and continues visiting the dentist regularly. That way, your <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">pediatric dentist</a> can monitor the progress of the child’s tooth growth and ensure he or she has a beautiful – and permanent – smile!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-64855200249888741612014-06-26T10:25:00.000-07:002014-06-26T10:25:00.660-07:00Could your child’s toys negatively impact his hearing?Walk around your local toy store and you’ll see millions of different toys for your child to play with. Many of them include a sound component, which, in addition to being annoying to parents, can also pose a risk to a child’s hearing. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, some children’s toys – like sirens or squeaky rubber toys – can actually emit sounds of 90 decibels. <br /><br />To put that in perspective, adults experiencing that level of noise at work would have to wear ear protection! Worse, when held up to a child’s ear during play, these toys can actually reach up to 120 decibels – a painful level that can result in permanent hearing loss. The Association suggests that some of the most dangerous toys for hearing include cap guns, vehicles with sirens, walkie talkies, vacuum toys, and even talking dolls. Before buying a new toy, be sure to test out its sound component; if you already have dangerous toys at home, take out the batteries to ensure they stay quiet. <br /><br />Healthy hearing practices begin at a young age, so start protecting your child at all times – even during play time. Talk to a doctor in your True Dental Discounts <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">hearing plan</a> if you have any questions or concerns about toys around your house.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-19608365235372599542014-06-24T10:23:00.000-07:002014-06-24T10:23:00.945-07:00Retinal examinationsEye exams can include many different vision tests that measure the health and functioning of your eyes. One of these tests is a retinal examination, which looks at the retina, optic disk, and blood vessels in the back of your eye. According to the Mayo Clinic, eye doctors may use one of three techniques to look at the back of your eye. First, however, he will likely need to dilate your pupils with eye drops that may give you a slight stinging sensation. After the drops are in place, he may conduct a direct examination, an indirect examination, or a slit-lamp examination. <br /><br />In a direct examination, a beam of light is shined through the pupil so that the doctor can view the back of the eye with an ophthalmoscope. This exam may cause you to temporarily see afterimages once the light is gone. For an indirect examination, the patient usually lies down on a chair while the doctor shines a light strapped to his head into the patient’s eye. This technique allows the doctor to see the eye in three dimensions and is also likely to result in temporary afterimages. Finally, the slit-lamp examination has the ability to show the doctor the most detail about the back of the eye. <br /><br />In this exam, the doctor uses the slit lamp as well as a condensing or contact lens. Each of these three exams takes only about five to 10 minutes, but depending on the use of eye drops, your vision will likely be blurry for several hours. Before your appointment at your True Dental Discounts <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">vision plan</a> doctor, ask someone to drive you home and make any necessary arrangements at work.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-82637452257539668662014-06-20T10:21:00.000-07:002014-06-20T10:21:00.102-07:00Congenital hearing loss in childrenAlthough it is more common for people to acquire hearing loss through age or exposure to loud noises, between one and six of every 1,000 newborn babies are born with congenital (or present-at-birth) hearing loss. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, more than 50% of all congenital cases are caused by genetics. There are thought to be at least three separate genetic causes of congenital <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">hearing loss</a>, including situations in which at least one parent has genetically caused hearing loss. In this situation, the chance of the affected gene being passed to a child is much higher (at least 50%) than in cases where neither parent has hearing loss. <br /><br />In some cases, both parents may carry a recessive gene for hearing loss, meaning that although neither of them has lost their hearing, they still have the ability to pass that gene on to their children. In this case, there is about a 25% chance of the child being born with hearing loss. Finally, there is also the chance that the mother can pass a hearing loss gene to her child through the X-chromosome, meaning it can only be passed on to male children, who have just one X chromosome (females have two). Hearing loss is also a known characteristic of Down syndrome and other genetic conditions.
<br /><br />However, there are also several causes of congenital hearing loss that are not related to genetics. These generally include infections or toxins in the mother during pregnancy or conditions affecting the baby shortly after birth. For instance, babies who are exposed to German measles or herpes while in the womb can develop congenital hearing loss. It’s very important to talk to your True Dental Discounts <a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">hearing plan</a> doctor about your chances of passing on hearing loss to your child so you can be as educated as possible prior to the birth.
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-24196399174963622792014-02-05T09:59:00.000-08:002014-02-05T09:59:00.605-08:00Musicians may need extra hearing protectionEveryone knows it can be dangerous to your hearing to go to noisy concerts or blast music in the car, but did you know it can also be harmful to the one playing the music, as well? According to the American Hearing Research Foundation, the most damage comes from high-frequency sounds, such as those produced by violins and violas.<br /><br /> This is especially true for the left ear because it is held close to the instrument during performances. Many violinists face a conundrum because they need to have excellent hearing to adjust the instrument’s pitch levels while playing, yet their hearing is gradually damaged by playing. For non-string instruments like trumpets, experts recommend musicians use mutes to muffle the sound and protect their hearing. <br /><br />Other musicians, including violinists, have the option of wearing special “<i>vented</i>” ear plugs that help protect the ears without distorting the musician’s perception of the pitch. A doctor on your <b><a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">discount hearing plan</a></b> can make specialized recommendations to fit your instrument and situation, so protect your hearing by scheduling an appointment before your next performance. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-725952344248543272014-02-03T10:50:00.000-08:002014-02-03T10:50:00.332-08:00Is your tooth cracked?Believe it or not, it’s possible to not be aware of a cracked tooth in your mouth. Many cracks are so small that they cannot be seen with the naked eye, or sometimes even an X-ray. To determine which tooth is cracked, dentists often ask patients where they are experiencing sensitivity to temperature as well as sticky, sweet, or sour food. They make also ask where the pain is centralized while chewing. According to the American Dental Association, cracked teeth hurt because “<i>the pressure of biting causes the crack to open.</i>” Once that pressure is released, the crack quickly closes, and the person feels a sharp sensation of pain. <br /><br />Even further, cracked teeth can cause the pulp inside the tooth to become irritated or even damaged. In advanced cases, a dentist may have to perform a root canal to save the tooth. Treatments for cracks range from bonding to complete extraction, depending on the severity of the crack. Teeth can crack for a variety of reasons, including chewing on hard candy, nuts or ice; uneven chewing pressure; grinding of the teeth; and experiencing an accident that involves a hit to the mouth. <br /><br />The American Dental Association (ADA) suggests that the most important thing to remember is that regular dental checkups help prevent tiny cracks from becoming a large problem. If you experience pain or sensitivity in a tooth, do not continue to chew on that side of your mouth. Call your discount <b><a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/" target="_blank">dental plan dentist</a></b> and have him or her identify the source of your pain. Treated early, cracks can be easily repaired without stress to your mouth or your wallet.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5004092045401628871.post-4269333204440931352014-01-23T09:56:00.000-08:002014-01-23T09:56:00.873-08:00Are you a good candidate for contactsThe popularity of contact lenses has skyrocketed over the last decade. It is not unusual to be unaware that someone you work with – or even one of your friends – has corrective lenses. But contacts are not for everyone. Many factors go into the decision to wear contacts, so be sure to talk to an eye doctor on your <b><a href="http://www.truedentaldiscounts.com/visioncare.htm" target="_blank">discount vision plan</a></b> about your individual situation. In general, the Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology suggests that people who have the following issues may not be a good candidate for contact lenses:
<br />
<ul>
<li>Severe allergies
</li>
<li>Frequent eye infections
</li>
<li>A dusty work environment
</li>
<li>Dry eyes that are resistant to treatment</li>
<li>
An inability to handle or properly care for the lenses
</li>
</ul>
If you do get contacts, it is important to learn the proper method of cleaning and disinfecting the lenses. Dirty contacts can increase your chance of getting an eye infection, so make sure to thoroughly clean both the lenses and their cases. Also, anytime a lens is removed from the eye, it should be cleaned again before being reinserted. <br /><br />If your eyes become irritated while wearing contacts, talk to your eye doctor and find a way to alter your routine. The fix could be something as simple as changing your wetting drops or, in some cases, it might be best to stick to wearing glasses. Your doctor will let you know which option is healthier for your eyes.
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0