Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ) are common but are more common in women than men. TMJ disorders impact the jaw joint and muscles that control the jaw and can be difficult to diagnose.
Key takeaways:
- The TMJ connects the lower jaw and the bone on the side of the skull.
- Symptoms of TMJ disorders include restricted jaw movement, pain and popping or clicking sounds.
- Treatment involves reducing jaw movements by eating soft foods and gentle exercises and massages.
Your dentist might recommend surgery, a mouth guard for teeth or steroid injections.
Find more information at:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317706.php

Our teeth can suffer from injuries or cavities that cause them to die. Symptoms include discolouration and pain. A professional dentist will be able to provide an accurate diagnosis. How will the dentist treat a dead tooth once it has been discovered?
- A x-ray will be performed to determine the extent of the damage.
- Assuming the exterior of the tooth can be saved, a root canal may be performed.
- In severe cases, the tooth itself could need to be fully extracted.
"If the dentist is unable to repair the tooth, they may have to remove it."
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319062.php

Promoting positive dental habits in your children from an early age establishes a solid routine to last a lifetime.

Key takeaways:

- As soon as your child's first tooth comes through, it can be brushed, and as soon as two teeth that touch emerge, flossing can be introduced.
- If you have more than one child, you can encourage the older one to teach younger siblings.
- Make dental check-ups fun and reward good oral care habits.
"Getting your kids to adopt healthy dental habits is crucial to having a strong smile for life!"
Read the full story here: http://yourdentalhealthresource.com/how-to-promote-healthy-dental-habits-for-your-children/

It is possible that you have been brushing your teeth the wrong way. Even people who have long brushing sessions are surprised when the dentist diagnoses dental problems like gum disease.
Key takeaways:

- The recommended time spent on brushing is 2 minutes, twice a day, every day.

- Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging gums and enamel.
- Use just a little pressure and short strokes.
- Don't forget to brush the backs of teeth – and your tongue.
Remember to ask your dentist for brushing tips during checkups.
Find more here:
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/reminder-the-way-you-brush-your-teeth-could-damage-your-gums_us_5988a6e9e4b07e7f21510f7d

Dental implants are the most common option when it comes to replacing missing teeth. Nowadays, there are several varieties to choose from. Your dentist will advise you which one is best in your particular case.
The main types of implants are:

-  Endosteal implants are usually the best option for most patients.

- Subperiosteal implants use a frame on the jawbone rather than an embedded post.

- Implant-supported dentures are for patients missing most or all of their teeth.
- Mini Dental implants for people who don’t have enough bone in their jaw.
In the end, you will have a beautiful implant – an artificial tooth – that matches your natural teeth. Dental implants will last a very long time if you practice good oral hygiene.
Further information can be found at http://yourdentalhealthresource.com/are-there-different-types-of-dental-implants/.

It has been known for some time that stem cells can be used to replace or repair damaged tissues. There may indeed come a day when dentist utilises these modern powerhouses to treat ailments and even to grow new teeth. What are some recent advancements worth noting?

-Stem cells are present in all adult teeth to a certain extent.

- These cells may be able to grow an entirely new tooth.

- Laboratory tests using animals have already provided promising results. Human clinical trials are in the near future.
"The big question with all of these studies is to reproduce the results in humans."
Read more:
http://www.impactlab.net/2017/08/11/will-stem-cells-replace-dental-implants/

Although no direct link has been proven between gum disease (periodontitis) and Alzheimer’s, researchers now believe there is a relationship between the two. Researchers estimate that people with long-term chronic gum disease are 70% more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than those with healthy teeth and gums.
Regardless of the possible risk of Alzheimer’s, it is best to maintain a proper dental health regime and visit the dentist regularly.
Untreated periodontitis can also cause:
- Inflamed and bleeding gums
- Damage to teeth
- Possible bone loss
The research highlights “the need to prevent progression of periodontal disease” and further information can be found at http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/long-term-gum-disease-linked-to-alzheimers-disease_us_59974d9de4b0a2608a6c768a.

A team of researchers have studied mice with diabetes and found an association between changes in bacteria in the mouth and the development of gum disease.
Key takeaways:
- This study suggests that diabetes may lead to changes in the bacteria in the mouth.
- These changes can lead to gum disease and jaw bone loss.
- Controlling blood sugar will help prevent these dental problems.
See your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams to prevent these problems.
Read the full story here: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/318447.php

The oral cancer screening process is simple. During teeth checkup, your dentist will check the lips, tongue, throat and neck for symptoms. So what is the right age to start screenings?
Key takeaways:
- At 18, if you have never smoked and don't have any symptoms.
- If you are a smoker or have any of the symptoms, start screenings the day you start smoking.
- Symptoms include; recurring sore throats, white and red patches on gums and tongue and incessant mouth sores.
Most oral cancer patients are smokers.
Learn more at:
http://yourdentalhealthresource.com/from-what-age-should-i-get-screened-for-oral-cancer/

Teeth grinding affects adults and people in their teens alike. Here's an overview of the most common causes.
Key takeaways:
- Researchers have found that teenagers who are bullied are four times more likely to grind their teeth

- Sleep disorders and anxiety problems are common triggers of teeth grinding

- Smoking and drinking are also associated with this habit
Because teeth grinding can cause serious dental problems, it's important to seek treatment from your family dentist as soon as possible.
Read the full story here: http://www.bbc.com/news/health-40593028