Manohar Dental Care Vizag

Monday, January 7, 2019

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What is considered normal as we age? 

There is a misconception that memory loss, dementia and even Alzheimer’s is a part of aging. The truth is healthy, normal, expected aging includes: 

Changes in skin, hair and nails. Skin’s elasticity decreases and dryness increases as oil glands produce less oil as we age. Nail growth slows and hair thins and grays.
Changes in hearing and vision. Visual sharpness begins to decline and high-frequency sounds become harder to hear.
Changes to bones. Some people will notice height decreasing as changes in posture and joint compression make adjustments. Mineral content loss in bones makes them less strong.
Changes to energy levels. As one ages, metabolisms slow and changes in circadian rhythm occur causing us to sleep less.
Changes in organs and internal systems. Blood flow decreases, effecting the brain’s memory, heart, lungs, kidneys, and hormones.

So, while minor memory loss is normal, dementia and Alzheimer’s are not part of normal, healthy aging.

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The Surprising Connection Between Alzheimer’s Disease and Dental Health

November is National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month. It is a time to wear purple to support the nearly 5.4 million Americans who live with Alzheimer’s disease as well as to support their caregivers. Designated by President Reagan in 1983, National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month was designed to bring visibility to a  disease that is impacting more and more people – you probably know one.  Surpisingly, there’s a connection between Alzheimer’s disease and dental health. 

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Complete Outstanding Treatment 

You may have seen the dentist this year and are aware of some specific treatments that are needed. This is a perfect time of year to get in and use your dental benefits before you lose them when the calendar turns to the New Year. Get started on your recommended treatment not only to maximize your benefits, but to perhaps jump start  a resolution of a healthier you in 2018.

Your dental office can help you maximize your insurance coverage. They will provide a treatment plan that works with your insurance, explain your out-of-pocket costs, and discuss financing options. Depending on your insurance coverages, some of the treatments which may be covered could include the following:

Deep cleanings
Root canals
Tooth repair
Dental fillings
Bridges, crowns
Dental implants
Night guards

If you’ve already met your deductible for this year, it is likely less expensive to get treatment done up to your plan’s yearly maximum than waiting until the following year.

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Checkups Twice a Year 

If you haven’t had a cleaning this year, or only have had one, come in for a visit and cross it off your self-care list. Regular, routine dental visits and good oral care habits provide preventive care that supports a variety of wellness benefits, and in many cases, are fully covered under your dental insurance coverage. The benefits of regular checkups with your dentist include:

Reducing or preventing gingivitis
Early oral cancer intervention
Reducing or preventing cavities
Lowering risk of heart disease
Reducing risk of Alzheimer’s Disease
Reducing inflammation in the body (which leads to a variety of disease)
Preventing bad breath
Prevention of tooth loss

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Perfect Teeth has your back- Our holiday hours allow you to use your dental benefits before the end of the year! 

The holiday season is upon us, and most people are busy with shopping, baking, addressing greeting cards even planning and attending parties.  We understand the last thing you’re probably thinking about is maximizing your dental benefits… and you’re not alone!

“…96 percent of all companies offer some kind of group dental benefits to employees, as many as one-third of dental plan members don’t actually use them…” Source: Benefits Bridge: Use Your Dental Benefits

If you don’t use your dental benefits, you most likely lose them.  Meaning you may not be taking advantage of free and reduced cost opportunities you and your employer are paying for.  Don’t lose out on the benefits you’ve paid for.  Instead, consider using that extra time off during the holidays to visit your dentist.

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World Diabetes Day 

Organizations worldwide will host Diabetes awareness events on November 14th for World Diabetes Day. Visit the International Diabetes Federation’s World Diabetes Day website to find events near you.

Whether adult or child, Type I diabetic or Type II, establishing and maintaining healthy oral habits including regular brushing, flossing, rinsing, and chewing are important. Seeing a dentist twice a year should also be a part part of  your routine. Find your next dentist at Perfect Teeth today!

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Preventing Gum Disease as a Diabetic 

Good oral health is critical for general health, whether or not you have diabetes. Following these guidelines will help you, and your mouth, teeth, and gums to stay healthy:

Brush your teeth twice a day for two full minutes. Tilt your brush towards your gum-line and brush in a circular motion.
Floss daily
Rinse daily with an ADA approved mouthwash
Consider chewing sugar-free gum to increase saliva levels
See your dentist twice a year for check-ups, more often if you are experiencing pain or have dental concerns

Before your appointment:

Maintain a health blood glucose level
Eat healthy and as normal before your appointment
Take your medication
Talk to your dentist about any medications you are taking and if they have changed
Bring your blood testing supplies
Let your dentist know if you feel unstable from low blood glucose levels
Make your appointment in the morning
Talk to your dentist about any concerns related to procedures that could affect your blood sugar levels (such as fasting for a procedure or not being able to eat after one)

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Diabetes affects nearly 30 million children and adults in the US. That’s 1 in 11 Americans. 

Gum disease is bacteria that builds up in the pockets of the gums that causes them to become red, swollen, and bloody when touched. Because diabetics are more susceptible to bacterial infections, and less able to fight them, is why good oral care to fight off gum disease is so important. 

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Oral Care for Type II Diabetics 

Just as Type 1, research shows an increased occurrence of gum disease (both gingivitis and periodontitis) in Type II diabetic patients, and that the two may be related. Those who struggle with glucose management are more susceptible to serious gum disease, and likewise, gum disease can affect blood sugar levels negatively. 

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Type I Diabetes and Dental Health 

Type I Diabetes affects up to 3 million Americans, and about 30,000 are diagnosed each year. According to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), about 15% of those with Type 1 diabetes are children. (Source: https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/facts-statistics-infographic)

Those with Type I Diabetes are more predisposed to gum disease. In fact, one study found periodontitis was 5x more prevalent in those with Type 1 diabetes than those without!

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National Diabetes Month – The Connection to Dental Health

November is National Diabetes Month, so we wanted to take a moment to address the specific dental concerns and needs of patients with diabetes. Self-advocacy and self-care is the priority for anyone with health concerns, and diabetes is no exception. A dentist should be part of your care team, and this is what your dentist wants you to know. 

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Erasers 

Cap erasers, or mini-scented erasers become like treasure coins in the hands of kids. 

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Puzzles 

Puzzles give the kids time to focus on a project and have a satisfying outcome from accomplishing a task. Make it a family activity, free from technology, for even more fun. 

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Writing Utensils 

 Kids love special pens, markers or even pencils. Find fun color packs, and unique features to get the kids excited. 

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Bubble bath 

Small, sample size bath products are great for kids. They give them a reason to stay in the tub and be creative. Cleanliness is next to godliness, they say. 

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Toothbrushes 

We aren’t talking garden variety here.  There’s a whole world of character-based, musical, or otherwise cool toothbrushes that make a great stuffer and encourage lifelong healthy oral carehabits! Buy yours early because stores tend to sell out before Christmas. 

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