teeth whitening

How much does Teeth Whitening cost in  Kochi

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Teeth whitening also known as Dental Bleaching is a cosmetic procedure to whiten or bleach your teeth. Are you Looking for a brighter smile? A bright and white smile can be provided by this procedure. Teeth whitening is one of the most requested cosmetic dental treatments. So, let’s break down the teeth whitening cost in Kochi and what to expect at Dr. Bobby Dental Clinic.

What is Teeth Whitening

A simple cosmetic treatment that whitens your teeth. It helps attain your natural white  tooth shade or even go whiter. It is a useful procedure for those who prefer their teeth to be more white and those who don’t have the confidence to smile because of their tooth color. The whitening agents are mainly peroxides.

Types of Teeth Whitening in Dr Bobby Clinic

In-clinic whitening or Professional whitening

Professional teeth whitening is a clinical procedure wherein a dentist can bleach your teeth. It is a 1 hour procedure done by professionals. The procedure has quick results, is safe and effective.

At-home whitening kits

Home whitening kits are provided by the clinic and it is a kit with instructions which the patient can use to whiten their teeth at the convenience at their own home. It is easy to use with guidance. But it is less effective than professional whitening. Approximately 3 home whitening kits is equal to 1 Professional whitening.

What’s the Teeth Whitening Cost in Kochi?

  • In-clinic treatment: â‚ą10,000 – â‚ą25,000
  • At-home kit:  â‚ą 6,000-â‚ą8,000       
  • Costs may vary depending on the professional performing the procedure and type of armamentarium like lasers, tooth condition and number of sessions needed.

What Affects the Price Of Teeth Whitening?

Major factors affecting teeth whitening cost are

  • Type of whitening method used : All the teeth whitening procedures need chemicals like peroxides to whiten the teeth. But to enhance the whitening procedure, lasers can also be used which will enhance the whitening process.
  • Severity of stains or discoloration: This may need extra dental cleaning ( oral prophylaxis ) to remove the stains first and then in the subsequent appointment get the whitening done.
  • Customization of treatment: There may be cases where in the tooth is greyish or blackish which can indicate the tooth is non vital, This will require Non Vital Bleaching which can effectively correct the teeth whitening process

How Long Teeth Whitening Results Last?

  • In-clinic: Average 6-8 months but also longer if a patient avoids a diet with high turmeric, red sauces, artificial soda drinks.
  • At-home: Average 5 months
  • Regular dental check-ups help extend the effect by performing dental cleaning every 6 months

How to Keep Your Teeth White for Longer

  • Avoid tea ( without milk), coffee ( without milk), wine.
  • Avoid smoking and tobacco chewing.
  • Brush twice a day.
  • Schedule touch-ups if needed

Other Smile-Enhancing Treatments You Can Explore

If you’re considering teeth whitening, here are a few more treatments at Dr. Bobby Dental Clinic that help improve your smile:

  • Clear Aligners – It helps straighten teeth discreetly by Invisible braces
  • Braces (Orthodontics) – It helps for alignment and bite correction
  • Dental Implants – It helps to restore missing teeth
  • Pediatric Aesthetic Dentistry – It is a care for kids’ teeth especially for front teeth because many children have discoloured front teeth due to decay or caries or fracture. So for aesthetic reasons, it can be corrected.
  • Periodontic Therapy – Some patients have gummy smiles. So with the help of periodontists, the gums can be corrected with lasers.
  • Dentofacial Orthopedics – Procedure for early jaw correction which can improve the jaw alignment and improve the smile.

Teeth whitening cost in Kochi is affordable and worth the results. Whether you want a quick in-clinic session or a flexible at-home kit, Dr. Bobby Dental Clinic has options for you. Book your appointment today and take the first step toward a brighter smile!

 FAQ

  1. Are teeth whitening covered by insurance in Kochi?

No, it is not covered by standard health or dental insurance plans. This treatment is considered elective and purely aesthetic, so it’s typically excluded from coverage in both general health policies and dental riders.

2.How many sessions do I need for teeth whitening?

Most people need 1–3 sessions for noticeable teeth whitening, depending on the type of whitening, current stains, and desired shade.

3.How long does professional teeth whitening last?

Professional teeth whitening typically lasts 6 months to 3 years, but on average, about 1 year before noticeable fading. Lifestyle habits can shorten the effect. Oral hygiene helps maintain brightness. Touch-up treatments or whitening trays can extend results.

4.Do I need a dental cleaning before teeth whitening?

Yes, a dental cleaning is usually recommended before teeth whitening. Cleaning removes plaque, tartar, and surface stains, so the whitening gel works evenly. It helps prevent gum irritation during whitening. Your dentist can also check for cavities or sensitivity issues before treatment.

Clear aligner bite correction

How Clear Aligners Can Help Improve Your Bite and Jaw Alignment

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Clear Aligners is a breakthrough in the field of Dentistry and Orthodontics. It is a comfortable alternative to normal braces. Bite correction with clear aligners is possible. It is definitely a modern technology and helps in bite correction in this world of demand for extra comfort. It offers a non-invasive solution but it is also not completely non-invasive. But it will help in achieving proper function and aesthetics. Patients seeking comfort and precision in orthodontic treatment can rely on Dr. Bobby Dental Clinic’s trusted clear aligner.

Understanding Bite and Jaw Alignment Issues

What Is Bite Alignment?

Malocclusion is a deviation from normal bite (Occlusion) which can affect the aesthetics, function and structural balance of the jaws and teeth as a whole. So correcting bite and teeth alignment is beyond just aesthetics. It will improve the function of teeth ( chewing efficiency), speech and as a bonus it will boost one’s confidence.

Causes of Bite and Jaw Misalignment

Genetics: Genetics has a major role in the occurrence of a malocclusion. We acquire genes from our parents and grand parents. So a mixture of genes causing jaw and teeth alignment have been given to us by which our jaws and teeth are aligned.

Environmental: Environmental will be any reason caused after birth. Habits ( thumbsucking, nail biting, mouth breathing, abnormal swallowing), trauma ( accidents, fall), lack of proper nutrition are certain environmental factors causing malocclusion. 

Health Risks of Ignoring Bite Issues

Certain malocclusion if left unattended, can lead to Joint symptoms like jaw pain, tightness, clicking. Also it can cause teeth wear which can lead to teeth sensitivity. Certain bites can affect proper speech delivery and can make pronunciation of certain words difficult. Chewing inefficiency usually is seldom not realised by an individual because he gets accustomed to the particular chewing ability for many years . But it can be improved as the malocclusion is corrected.

How Bite Correction with Clear Aligners Works

What Are Clear Aligners?

Clear Aligner is a type of orthodontic braces which is transparent and looks like a plastic tray. But each aligner is designed for certain tooth movement and is customised for each patient. Invisalign is a type of Clear aligner. Likewise there are Spark aligners, Flash aligners,etc. So a customized 3D scan along with a personalized treatment plan is created for each patient. These are discussed with the patient and after approval from the patient, the aligners manufacturing starts. This will help you get the aligners quicker and with more accurate fitting.

Clear Aligners for Bite Issues: The Process

Aligners may or may not need attachment on teeth. Attachments are placed on the tooth (tooth coloured) for tooth movements and aligner retention. Controlled tooth movement is needed to improve bite alignment. In the period during the onset of aligners, simple tooth movements could only be executed by aligners. As advance in technology has taken place, aligners are being more efficient in complex tooth movements .Each aligner is programmed for a certain movement. Patients are required to wear each aligner for an average of 7-10 days 22 hours per day for the desired movement to occur. 

Types of Bite Issues Clear Aligners Can Fix

  • Open bite : Such bite corrections have to be carefully planned as certain movements are difficult movements when concerned with aligners.
  • Underbite : Underbite can be corrected.
  • Crossbite: Such bites are responsible for tooth wear and jaw shifting. Such corrections may need use of elastics also.
  • Mild to moderate crowding or spacing: Clear aligners for such bite issues can be used for crowding or spacing correction.
  • Extraction cases: Cases needing tooth removal and straightening teeth can also be corrected by Aligners.

Benefits of Bite Correction with Clear Aligners

  • Discreet appearance and removable design: Invisibility is the most important advantage of clear aligners. Only if a person closely examines the teeth, can she or he identify the presence of aligners.
  • Improved jaw function and reduced discomfort: Reduced discomfort is mainly due to programmed tooth movement per aligner making it predictable and comfortable in tooth movement.
  • Easier oral hygiene during treatment is also a bonus. Aligners are removable so it can be removed and cleaned at your convenience.
  • Reduced need for invasive orthodontics in many cases.

Clear Aligners vs. Braces for Bite Correction

  • Effectiveness for mild-to-moderate cases: Aligners are equally effective in mild to moderate cases when compared to normal braces. Proper treatment planning is the key to success in aligner treatment.
  • Aesthetic appeal and comfort: As mentioned, aligners are a highly invisible and aesthetic appliance.
  • Fewer office visits and shorter adjustment periods: Aligner patients need not come for check ups every month. But follow-ups are a must for proper treatment finish.
More about Choosing Between Clear Aligners and Braces.

Clear aligners for bite issues provide a modern, aesthetic and comfortable alternative to traditional braces. If you have any doubts about bite correction or need a specialist opinion, please consult an Orthodontist who can help you make the right decision. Also you can get to know if Clear Aligners will work for you.

For a specialist opinion, you can book a consultation on our website. We can help you arrive at the best solution to obtain your dream smile.

FAQ

1.How effective is bite correction with clear aligners compared to braces? 

Certain movements are still not as effective as braces. But compared to the past, aligners have become much more advanced and research is still being done to make complex movements possible for aligners.

2.How long does it take for aligners to fix a misaligned bite?

Depending on the type of correction to be obtained. Eg: if 20 aligners are needed , each aligner will need 10-15 days of wear so the total number of days is approximately 200-300 days for the treatment duration.

3.Is Invisalign the best clear aligner for bite correction?

It is not entirely true but Invisalign is much advanced in their research and development so they are much advanced. Moreover, Invisalign are among the pioneers of Clear Aligners so they have a credit in that respect. But majority aligners can be used to correct malocclusions.

4 .Are aligners comfortable for people with jaw pain or TMJ?

If a patient has TMJ or jaw pain, aligners need not help them to be more comfortable.

5.Can clear aligners fix bite issues like overbites and underbites?

Yes Clear aligners can correct such malocclusion but it has to be carefully assessed by an Orthodontist for proper treatment planning.  

dental implant imag

How Long Do Dental Implants Last? Lifespan & Maintenance Tips

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Dental implants are a prosthetic replacement of missing tooth or teeth and is a popular and long-lasting tooth replacement option.Many patients ask this question “How long do dental implants last?” or “what is the dental implant Lifespan? Dental Implants are meant to last for lifetime provided you take care of it as suggested by your Implantologist and you have no relevant medical history. Implants after placing help in naturally replacing just the missing tooth without touching the adjacent tooth. If you’re considering a Dental implant service, understanding its lifespan and care requirements is essential.

How Long Do Dental Implants Typically Last?

For replacing missing tooth or teeth, the current available treatment is 

1)Dental Implants 

2) Crown and bridge.

The implant ( the underlying screw) is made of titanium and can last 25+ years or even a lifetime with good care. Certain guidelines have to be followed by every Dental implant patient . The dental crown (the visible tooth portion of implant) usually lasts 5–10 years, sometimes longer.

Factors That Affect Dental Implant Longevity

  • Oral hygiene and regular dental checkups – Regular checkups and regular professional teeth cleaning (scaling once in every 6-8 months ) have to be done for proper maintenance
  • Lifestyle habits – Smoking is a contraindication to Dental Implants and can lead to dental implant failure if not stopped.
  • Placement site – There is not much distinction in lifespan for front or back teeth. But front teeth replacement is technique sensitive and positioning is very important when compared to back teeth implants.
  • Dental professional’s skill – The quality of surgery sterilization and implant materials used play a crucial role in the lifespan and stability of implants.
  • Overall health – Gum disease (Periodontitis), diabetes or bone related diseases can adversely affect the stability and lifespan of implants. Any such ailments must be properly under control or shown to the respective medical professional.

How to Maintain Your Dental Implants

  • Brush twice and floss daily to prevent food lodgment and gum problems
  • Use a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Such a habit is very good for proper oral hygiene maintenance. Clean around the implant and crown properly
  • Avoid biting hard objects (ice, pens, hard candy). Nothing can happen to an adequately placed implant when biting on hard objects but it is always better to avoid.
  • Visit your dentist every 6 months for cleanings and checkups
  • Consider night guards for teeth grinders: Soft night guards can be useful for teeth grinder when sleeping to avoid trauma to teeth.

When Do Implants Need Repair or Replacement?

Implant rarely fails if bone and gums remain healthy. The crowns may need replacement due to wear, chips, or loosening. Usual signs of problems include pain, movement, gum swelling, difficulty biting. Early intervention prevents full replacement. But the final decision will be taken by constant follow ups and necessary radiographs.

Why Choose Dr. Bobby’s Dental Clinic for Long-Lasting Implants?

We always believe in Speciality Dentistry . Implantology is a Specialty Dentistry and needs to be handled by Experienced and well trained Implantologists and use of high-quality implant systems. Also personalized care and follow-ups help in proper maintenance and prolongs the lifespan of the implant.Check our instagram for more details on success stories of dental implant.

 

So to conclude, Implants can last decades with proper care and maintenance.So “Do you Think you’re ready to restore your smile for the long haul?”If it is a YES, “Schedule your free dental implant consultation at Dr. Bobby’s Clinic today!”

 

why early dentofacial treatment in kids

Why Early Dentofacial Orthopedic Treatment Matters for Kids

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Dentofacial Orthopedics is the treatment used in growing children to redirect jaw growth in a more favourable and aesthetic manner. It is important to start certain treatment in children as it helps in better outcomes. Dentofacial Orthopedics in children is a Dental Speciality practise done between ages 8-14.

What is Dentofacial Orthopedics?

Dentofacial orthopedics helps guide the growth of a child’s face and jaws. It is entirely different from braces treatment. This type of treatment is done in children between 8-14 years of age. It is basically used to improve jaw position, improve unaesthetic and improper bite and also improves facial aesthetics.

It is important to start early because

  • It is easier to fix jaw position when the child is in the growing phase.
  • The results are much faster and better
  • For certain children, it helps improve breathing and even speech.
  • It boosts your child’s confidence and helps them smile better
  • In certain children with protruding upper front teeth , it can definitely help in avoiding front tooth fracture and trauma.

Why Start Treatment Early?

Starting treatment early, ideally between ages 7 and 12, allows orthodontists to guide jaw growth while bones are still developing. This makes it easier to correct facial imbalances and can help avoid more complex treatments later. Early intervention also improves key functions like breathing, chewing, and speaking, and protects protruding front teeth from injury.

In addition to health benefits, early treatment can greatly boost a child’s confidence. A well-aligned smile not only looks better but also encourages good oral habits and self-esteem—giving your child a strong foundation for lifelong dental health.

Signs Your Child May Need Treatment

  • Mouth breathing or snoring: Breathing through the mouth is not a good sign unless a child has a cold or blocked nose. Nose or nasal breathing is the best way of breathing and it helps in proper jaw growth. 
  • Crooked jaw or bite problems: Certain children have teeth jutting out, buck teeth, or lower front teeth jutting out. These are signs of improper jaw growth.
  • Narrow dental arches: Certain children have narrow arches which can affect dental teeth alignment and bite. 
  • Such signs can even go unnoticed as parents mostly only see the front teeth . So It’s best to check around age 6–8.

What Happens During Treatment?

Gentle removable or fixed devices or appliances  are used to help guide jaw and teeth as your child grows. Treatment duration depends from 6 months to 1 year. Treatment is also done in phases. It is also a safe, comfortable, and kid-friendly treatment. The child has to be educated about the importance of the treatment. The parents also must understand the relevance and goals of the treatment. So the doctor, parent and child act as a team for the treatment. Patient cooperation is very important.

Why Choose Dr. Bobby’s Dental Clinic?

At Dr Bobby’s Orthodontics & Dental Specialty Care we have  a Specialized care for Dentofacial orthopedics in children. We mainly focus on age related malocclusions, dental habit correction, stage by stage correction of your child’s teeth problem. 

We have a professional and at the same time a friendly team to cater to your child’s dental problem with modern tools and equipment so that we can provide a customised and personalized treatment plan.

Early treatment can make a big difference for your child’s health and smile. We encourage parents to get a dental check-up early, preferably from the age of 5 when jaw growth, teeth eruption and dental habits like finger/ thumb sucking, mouth breathing are concerned.

Book your child’s visit with Dr. Bobby’s team today and we can guide for a better smile for the future

Dr. Bobby Blog-1 (1)

 What’s the Difference Between a Dentist and an Orthodontist

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When I started my studies at a Dental college, I only knew Dentist was the doctor who treats teeth problems. Then as my studies progressed, I realised that Dentistry had 9 specialities.So in dentistry certain treatments are done by the Specialists who are trained for 3 years at the Postgraduate level. So they have a better knowledge about the current trends and updates of the treatments. Out of the 9 specialties, Orthodontics is one of them. Many people assume Dentists and Orthodontists are the same but they are not.Both dentists and orthodontists care for oral health, their roles are different.

Main Difference Between a Dentist and an Orthodontist

Dentist: General oral health professional. They are trained to do basic treatments like dental fillings, dental scaling, dental extractions. In India the degree name is BDS ( Bachelor in Dental Surgery) or Dental Surgeon.

Orthodontist: Specialist who are trained to align and straighten teeth with braces and jaw alignment. In India the degree name is MDS in Orthodontics.

Orthodontist vs. Dentist : What You Need to Know

Dentist vs Orthodontist

Education and Training

 In order to obtain a dental degree, a person has to undergo 5 years of dental training including 1 year internship at a Dental College during which he/she is trained about the different aspects of Head, neck and teeth.After attaining a basic dental degree, the dentist has to undergo 3 years of postgraduate training to obtain a Master degree ( MDS in Orthdontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics).

Services They Provide

Dentist: Dentists provide the basic treatment services like dental cleanings, fillings, crowns, preventive care in children, and removable dentures.

Orthodontist: Orthodontists provide the Specialist treatment like Dental Braces, Clear aligners (like Invisalign), retainers and skeletal jaw correction in children above 12 years.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Specialist

When Human health is concerned, it is always imperative to know whom to get treatment advice regarding any form of ailments because better outcomes comes from targeted care. Likewise in Dentistry, for speciality treatment like orthodontic braces  or aligners, it is very important to consult an Orthodontist. It ensures there are no delays or unnecessary treatments. It helps boost our own confidence by seeing the right expert from the start. Dr Bobby’s Orthodontics & Dental Specialty Care provides advanced orthodontic services.

All orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists. So if you feel misaligned or crooked teeth to be corrected, it is important to consult a Specialist Orthodontist. A Specialist is also the right person who can say NO to a treatment because certain treatments can be useful for one person but may be harmful to another. Contact Dr. Bobby’s Dental Clinic to learn which provider is right for you.

Dental implant

Why More People Are Choosing Dental Implants for Missing Teeth

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Do you have a missing tooth or teeth?. So the frequent questions are, How can I replace it? Can I get a fixed alternative for my lost tooth?. Yes, of course it is possible.Dental Implants for missing teeth are the best available fixed or permanent alternatives for your lost teeth. Missing teeth can affect your smile, speech, and ability to eat comfortably. So implants are what majority patients prefer, be it front or back teeth.

What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is a prosthesis that interfaces with the bone of the jaw to support a dental prosthesis such as a crown, bridge, denture. Dental implants are anchored to bone and after it integrates with bone ( known as Osseointegration), it can help support the tooth crown and hence it replaces your lost natural tooth. When compared to other options. It does not need support from other teeth. Dental implants, once placed properly by an Implantologist after a proper diagnosis and treatment plan, can last a lifetime.

Key Benefits of Dental Implants

Natural Look and Feel: Dental implants are placed in such a manner that it has a natural look and feel. The artificial look is very less compared to other options.

Durability and Longevity: Duration and longevity, mainly depends on proper diagnosis, treatment planning and proper placement. Even patient factors play a major role such as the patient has to take good care by properly brushing and keeping it neat and clean.

Prevention of Bone Loss: When a tooth is lost, usually bone supporting the tooth tends to reduce in thickness and volume over time. But when an implant is placed into the bone , the width and thickness of the bone is maintained. 

Improved Functionality: After placement of implant, the patient can confidently eat, chew any food he/she wants.

Enhanced Self-Confidence: If a patient loses his/her front teeth , it causes lack of confidence to smile. But when it is replaced, it greatly enhances confidence and self esteem.

Why People Are Choosing Dental Implants

People around the world prefer dental implants , mainly because

  •  It has high success rate ( if there is no other unfavourable medical history)
  • People are more aware of the importance of replacing missing teeth and improving their quality of life. 
  • Better use of technology and ease of replacing the tooth 

Dr. Bobby Dental Clinic offers personalized Dental Implant Care tailored to your dental needs.

Who Can Get Dental Implants?

 In order to understand about selection criteria for candidates who are ideal to  get dental implants, I can put down the points of which conditions can cause failure of implants.

  • Before going ahead with the implant procedure, CBCT radiograph (3D radiograph) is taken to assess the bone volume and density. If the bone density and volume is unfavourable, the implants tend to fail.
  • Habits like smoking can cause implant failure.
  • Medical conditions like severe diabetes can cause implant failure.
  • Inorder to place an implant, the first sitting is a minor surgical procedure, so the patients who are unfit for a minor surgery is also unfit for implant procedure. 
  • Age is not at all a factor as long as the above conditions are favorable.

 

Dental implants are a reliable and natural-looking solution for missing teeth. It is a favourable fixed solution to replace your natural looking teeth. It majorly helps in normalizing the speech, function and aesthetics. With expert care more people are choosing  Dr. Bobby Dental Clinic to provide personalized dental care. 

Tooth Sensitivity in children

How to Recognize and Treat Signs of Tooth Sensitivity in children

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Teeth sensitivity is very common among adults as well as children. But the difference is children seldom realize the difference between sensitivity and pain. Sensitivity in layman terms can be described as a shock to teeth which is very uncomfortable when having cold or hot drinks or food items. Early detection and treatment as recommended by a dentist is very important.

Understanding Tooth Sensitivity in Children

What is Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity can be described as a shock like pain which is very fast and can stay on for a few seconds. It creates an uneasiness while having cold or hot foods or drinks. Tooth layers are enamel, dentine and pulp. The dentin layer is a sensitive layer. And sensitivity actually occurs when the tooth decay or tooth wear reaches the dentin layer.

Why it’s Important to Address Tooth Sensitivity Early

Teeth sensitivity is an early sign of cavity or tooth decay or tooth wear. It is better treated at the earliest since if left untreated it can lead to pain. So whenever a child complains of sensitivity, it is better to be addressed at the earliest to prevent further complications by consulting a Pediatric dentist and if treatment is recommended.

Common Signs of Tooth Sensitivity in Children

  • Complaints of Pain or Discomfort
    Children do not know how to explain sensitivity. So the common signs are avoidance of food owing to fear that pain can occur and during brushing children tend to avoid brushing that area and also pain while having hot or cold foods.
  • Changes in Eating Habits
    Children tend to change eating habits when they have pain or sensitivity. The foods they have commonly will be refused or not eaten at all.
  • Complaints of Sensitivity to Temperature
    Tooth tends to be very sensitive to hot or cold foods. So children tend to avoid icecreams, sour candies,etc.
  • Increased Irritability or Distress
    It is very common that when children are asked to brush their teeth, the parents notice fussiness or irritation due to brushing and if they complain of tooth pain, it can be a sign of tooth sensitivity or pain.
  • Visible Signs of Tooth Damage
    Tooth damage also causes tooth sensitivity, signs of worn off teeth, eroded teeth can be positive indications of tooth sensitivity.

Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity in Children

  • Enamel Erosion
    Soft or aerated drinks are the main causes of enamel erosion in children. After enamel gets worn out, the dentine layer gets exposed, which aggravates the tooth sensitivity.
  • Tooth Decay (Cavities)
    Due to sugary diet and improper tooth brushing, tooth cavities can occur in children which also mostly leads to tooth pain rather than sensitivity.
  • Teething and Gum Recession
    Teeth grinding is very common in some children. This is also a very common reason for wearing off the tooth. Such conditions must be addressed at the earliest.
  • Dental Trauma or Injury
    Dental trauma or injury if mild and leads to enamel chipping off then that can cause tooth sensitivity. 
  • Use of Incorrect Toothbrushes or Techniques
    Aggressive brushing can also cause tooth sensitivity. So utilising medium or soft brush twice daily is the optimal method to brush your teeth.and also your child’s teeth.

Preventing Tooth Sensitivity in Children

  • Teach Good Oral Hygiene Habits
    As soon as the milk teeth erupts , tooth brushing must begin for a child. Teaching proper oral hygiene habits is very essential in avoiding dental problems like dental cavity, teeth sensitivity and teeth pain.
  • Regular Dental Check-ups 
    Regular dental checkups ( twice a year, preferable from the age of 4) by a Pediatric dentist is very essential  
  • Protecting Teeth from Injury
    During contact sports it is very essential to use mouthguards for children to avoid the risk of dental injury.
  • Healthy Eating Habits
    Always promote a healthy diet with fruits, vegetables, and calcium and Vitamin D rich foods like milk, cheese, paneer. It is always good to avoid sugary snacks.
  • Avoiding Abrasive Toothpastes or Brushing Too Hard
    It is not advisable to use tooth powder and never brush too aggressively. For children with milk teeth, it is always recommended to brush in circular motion on the sides of the teeth and linear motion while brushing the chewing tooth surfaces.

Always keep in mind Tooth Sensitivity is one of the first signs of tooth damage. If seen in children, the parents must be vigilant and consult a dentist. Early detection can help in treating the patient with ease and not much complications. Prevention is always better than Cure , so always take care of your teeth by following proper brushing, having a proper diet, and avoiding injuries. Proper dental care now can ensure better oral health in the future for your child. For any expert opinion, you can consult us at Dr. Bobby’s Dental Clinic

FAQ

  • How do you treat sensitive teeth in children?
    Depending on the condition appropriate treatment can be undertaken. Tooth cavities can be filled. Anti sensitive paste is not recommended for children unless it is very severe.

    If the cavity is very deep , Pediatric consultation must be undertaken for the appropriate treatment.

  • How to stop sensitive teeth pain immediately?
    For emergency or severe situations, painkillers can help. If the sensitivity is due to any food or drink, completely avoid it unless the treatment is recommended. 

  • What is the difference between tooth pain and tooth sensitivity?
    Tooth pain is usually an aching type of pain and duration can be for long. Tooth sensitivity is a shock type of pain and mostly of very brief duration. Tooth pain can occur randomly but tooth sensitivity can occur when you have either cold foods or drinks.

  • How can I test my teeth sensitivity at home?
    If you suspect tooth sensitivity, the best home test is to take ice and place it on that tooth. Normal tooth will feel a mild sensitivity but a sensitive tooth will experience immediate shooting sensitivity.

Children-Oral-Health-1600x900

Tips for Children’s Oral Health

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Oral Health like any other part of our body has to be taken care of with utmost care and from an early age. Children at an early age should be educated on the importance of oral health and ways to keep it clean. Neglecting oral health can lead to effects like tooth decay , teeth pain, bad mouth odour, inability to eat food properly and gum infections. So it is very important that children start taking care of their teeth and teaching kids to brush teeth from a very early age and dental check ups every 6 months at the best dental clinic for preventing cavities in children. Let’s have an idea about best practices for kids dental hygiene.

Establishing a Good Oral Hygiene Routine

How to take care of kids’ teeth?

For a baby without teeth , cleaning the gums with a sterile cotton cloth or gauze dipped in normal water in the morning and night will suffice. But as soon as teeth erupt, it is very important to teach a child how to brush. A parent can start off with finger cap brushes as the bristles are softer and if a child bites, the parent’s finger does not get injured. It is advisable to guide your child until the age of 6 to clean every tooth (back and front) and inform them to look into the mirror while brushing otherwise certain areas of the mouth will be neglected. 

After the age of 6, children should be able to clean their teeth independently with constant reminders about the importance of keeping their teeth healthy. Then as the child ages the length of the brush can be modified as per the child’s convenience and dexterity. 

If a parent’s question or doubt is “How to get my toddler to brush their teeth” , the key factor is to start at an early age with details as mentioned above because the earlier the brushing habit is taught to the child , they will develop it as a routine daily procedure rather than a forced procedure.

Kids dental care tips

  • Brushing Techniques

Considering the method of brushing , circular motion works best for children as it is very effective in cleaning. Always remember it is the method of brushing and NOT the type of brush or paste that matters to keep your teeth healthy. 

Soft or medium brush is better and fluoridated paste can help in giving a tooth an extra protection for your tooth. But many food items or drinking water can help with regards to fluoride nourishment. Get in touch with a nutritionist for more details.
So the best toothbrush for kids will be a soft or medium bristles brush and a handle which the child can hold properly. Never cover the head of the brush during storage unless it is properly dry.

  • Flossing

Flossing is a very important habit and method to remove plaque and food particles especially in between teeth. If spaces are present between teeth , interdental brushes are available and are useful for children’s oral health.

  • Mouthwash

I would never recommend mouthwash for children unless prescribed by a dentist, since proper brushing and rinsing of mouth after every meal can prevent usage of mouthwash.

Healthy Dietary Habits for Strong Teeth

When considering healthy dietary habits for children for maintaining strong teeth , always give priority to fresh fruits and vegetables. Also milk, diary products like cheese, paneer and fish are useful supplements. A Balanced Diet is very important for keeping healthy teeth. Vitamin D and calcium are very good for bones and also for your teeth. Avoiding sugary / fizzy drinks is advised as these have acidic content and regular use of such drinks can compromise the strength of children’ s as well as adult teeth.

The Importance of Regular Dental Visits:

Prevention is better than Cure is apt for every aspect of health care. Likewise it applies for dental health as well. Regular dental check up every year from the age of 3 is recommended . Before the age of 3, parents can themselves monitor the child’s teeth on a regular basis and can do a checkup if they suspect any abnormality. From the age of 3, dental check ups every 6 months can prevent many future dental ailments like tooth cavities, unerupting teeth.

So ideally First dental visit for kids should be at least when the child turns 3

Common Oral Health Issues in Children

Tooth Decay:

  • Signs of tooth decay in children are usually black or brown lines or dots during early stages and in advanced stages it usually presents as a cavity. It may get confused with bacterial stains( commonly found in children). Cause of tooth decay or caries are usually as explained before improper brushing habits, having sugary snacks ( like chocolates, candy ,etc) just before bed. 
  • Treatment options for such tooth caries are teeth fillings.

Gum Disease:

  • Good oral hygiene is very important in preventing gum disease as well. But gum diseases are very rare in children considering age and better healing capacity of children compared to adults unless and until the child has a very poor oral hygiene. Major gum problems in children are directly related to tooth infections like pus 
  • Other gum related symptoms are bleeding gums, red or swollen gums

Tooth Injuries:

  • Tooth injuries and fractures are a common occurrence amongst children as they are always involved in some physical activities. The children who are majorly affected are those who have proclined upper front teeth. 
  • Such children can be treated at an early age by seeking treatment from an orthodontist or pedodontist to prevent further teeth trauma or injuries.
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How to prepare your Kid for a Dental Check-up?

Before the dental visit, explain to your child the reason for your dental visit. Never scare the child with details like “ doctor will inject if you do not listen” ,etc which will cause unwanted fear in the child’s mind. But otherwise if a child is already scared, the dentist can well handle the situation. During the initial visit, only a check up is done to check the dental condition of the child. Procedures are usually not undertaken until an emergency arises.

Conclusion

So always remember taking care of oral health is equally important like any other body part. Brushing is equally important like bathing your body. From an early age,  proper and effective brushing is the key to good oral health. Parents must consider it their responsibility for initial care of their children’s teeth. Proper education about the importance and value of good oral health plays a crucial role in the child’s overall growth and development.

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What is the Right Age and Stage to Opt for Braces?

by Uncategorized

A great smile can boost your confidence to the next level, and don’t worry – you can create it easily! Orthodontic treatments including braces are a great way to straighten your teeth and improve your smile. However, the right time to opt for braces can be confusing.  When is the right time to start thinking about getting braces? Let’s discuss the ideal time to get braces, when it’s best to have them, and how important timing is to the outcome of your treatment.

Importance of Early Orthodontic Evaluation

The Benefits of Early Evaluation: An orthodontic evaluation at an early age might have a significant impact. What are the benefits of early orthodontic treatment? It helps detect possible issues with the jaw and teeth early on, enabling you to avoid concerns later on that may call for complex treatments. Additionally, early orthodontic treatment directs the growth of the jaw and guarantees that teeth emerge in the proper alignment.

The Ideal Age for Initial Consultation: According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should see an orthodontist for the first time by the age of 7. Why is it so? Identifying any potential problems early is important, even though children at this age typically do not require braces, doing so, treatment can be offered when it is most effective.

Factors to Consider When Timing Braces Treatment

Age and Development: One of the most important questions raised to orthodontists is What age is best to get braces? Although there is no “one size fits all solution,” the best time to get braces is mostly determined by how your jaw and teeth develop. The ideal orthodontic treatment age is usually between 11 and 14 when the most permanent teeth have erupted. In certain situations, particularly when major alignment problems exist, earlier interventions such as palate expanders or Phase 1 treatment may be necessary.

Severity of the Dental Issue: Early treatment is very important if the dental problem is serious. Early braces may be necessary for severe malocclusions (misalignments) to avoid further problems. However, less serious problems can frequently be observed until the child is older and then ready to begin treatment.

Child’s Cooperation and Maturity: As kids get older, they usually cooperate better and take more responsibility for keeping their braces in good condition. Making sure that younger kids strictly adhere to the care guidelines might be hard. But by the time they reach their teens, they are usually more responsible and able to manage their braces.

Common Orthodontic Treatments and Their Timing

Early Orthodontic Treatment: Early medical treatment, commonly referred to as interceptive orthodontics, is mostly advised by orthodontists to help regulate the jaw and teeth development. Early-phase treatment or palate expanders may be used in this situation, which helps address issues before they worsen.

Traditional Braces: The majority of permanent teeth develop between the ages of 11 and 14, making this the ideal age range for traditional metal or ceramic braces. Since the jaw and teeth are still developing during this period, treatment is highly effective. Although metal braces remain the most popular option, ceramic braces are becoming increasingly popular among those seeking a less noticeable alternative. Choosing braces for teenagers can be difficult because most of them prefer Invisalign to avoid the discomfort in looks.

Invisalign: Invisalign clear aligners are an excellent option for adults and teenagers. They fit persons with fully grown teeth the best and are invisible and detachable. Teenagers may benefit from Invisalign, but regular use of these braces requires a certain amount of maturity. For this reason, those who are at least 16 years old are only advised to use them. The right Invisalign age therefore can only be determined with the maturity of the person. So, is it too late to get braces at 30? Since invisalign is most suitable to term as adult braces, you can get it at any age according to your oral health and alignment. And the answer to this question is definitely a no!

In conclusion, the child’s age, the severity of the tooth problem, and their level of cooperation during treatment influence in having braces. Early orthodontic evaluation is essential to address any possible issues before they create more involved care.

Scheduling an initial visit with an orthodontist around the age of 7 is the best option to know when braces are needed. Based on your child’s unique needs, orthodontists can recommend the best solutions.
 Are you prepared to start down the path to a more confident, healthy smile? To find out when treatment for you or your child is most proper, get in touch with an orthodontist right now!