Health

All You Need To Know...

May 11, 2023 admin No Comments

Are you considering getting braces? Or do you already have braces and want to know more about the process? At Astradental, we’re here to provide you with all the information you need. Here’s a breakdown of everything you should know about braces, from preparation to aftercare.

Preparation:

First, we’ll schedule an initial consultation to assess your dental needs and determine if braces are the best option for you.
If braces are recommended, we’ll take X-rays and impressions of your teeth to create a treatment plan.
We’ll also discuss the different types of braces available, such as traditional metal braces, clear ceramic braces, and lingual braces.

Application:

The braces will be applied to your teeth using a special adhesive.
The brackets will be attached to the front or back of your teeth, depending on the type of braces you choose.
If you choose metal braces, we’ll use wires to connect the brackets and apply pressure to shift your teeth into the correct position.
If you choose clear or lingual braces, we’ll use clear or tooth-colored wires and brackets for a more discreet look.

Adjustments:

You’ll need to visit our office regularly for adjustments, which involve tightening the wires to continue shifting your teeth.
We’ll also replace the wires and elastics as needed.
These adjustments can cause some discomfort, but it’s temporary and a sign that your teeth are moving as they should be.

Aftercare:

After your braces are removed, we’ll provide you with a retainer to wear to maintain the new position of your teeth.
It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene during and after your braces treatment, including brushing and flossing regularly and avoiding certain foods that can damage the braces.
We’ll also schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure the braces are working effectively.

Ready to take the first step towards a straighter smile? Contact us today to book your initial consultation and learn more about our braces options.

Don’t wait, call us today at 0727591579 or 0732561588 or book your appointment online via BOOK NOW FOR APPOINTMENT. We look forward to helping you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile!

Fluorosis: Causes, P...

March 15, 2023 admin No Comments

At Astradental, we know that a beautiful smile can change everything. That’s why we’re excited to offer masking, a cosmetic dental procedure that can help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. In this blog post, we’ll explain what masking is, what causes it, how to prevent it, and what treatment options are available. Plus, we’ll tell you about our current masking offer so you can save on this life-changing procedure.

What is Masking?

Masking is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves placing a thin layer of material over the surface of a tooth to change its appearance. This material can be made of a variety of materials, including composite resin, porcelain, or ceramic. Masking can be used to correct a variety of cosmetic issues, including tooth discoloration, chipped or broken teeth, gaps between teeth, and more.

What Causes Fluorosis?

There are several factors that can cause tooth discoloration and other cosmetic issues that can be corrected with masking. Some common causes of masking include:

Aging: As we age, our teeth can become discolored and worn down, leading to a less youthful appearance.
Genetics: Some people are born with teeth that are naturally discolored or misshapen.
Lifestyle factors: Certain foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, and red wine, can stain your teeth over time. Smoking and using other tobacco products can also cause discoloration.
Trauma: Teeth can become chipped or broken due to injury or trauma.

How to Prevent Fluorosis

While masking is an effective way to correct cosmetic dental issues, it’s always better to prevent these issues from occurring in the first place. Here are some tips to help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile:

Brush and floss regularly: Brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day to remove plaque and prevent tooth decay.
Limit your intake of staining foods and drinks: If you do consume coffee, tea, or red wine, rinse your mouth with water afterward to minimize the staining effect.
Quit smoking: Smoking and using other tobacco products can cause tooth discoloration and other oral health issues.
Wear a mouthguard: If you play sports or engage in other activities that could result in dental trauma, wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth.

Treatment Options for Fluorosis

At Astradental, we offer a variety of treatment options for Fluorosis, our masking options include composite resin, porcelain, and ceramic. Our team of experienced dental professionals will work with you to determine the best option for your unique needs and goals. The procedure is minimally invasive and can often be completed in just one visit to our office.

Take Advantage of Our Masking Offer

We’re currently offering a special promotion on masking. From now until May 31, 2023, you can save 20% on per tooth on masking. This is a limited-time offer, so be sure to book your appointment here https://astradental.co.ke/astradental-booking-form/ soon to take advantage of this incredible deal.

At Astradental, we’re committed to helping our patients achieve their best possible smiles. Contact us today to schedule your masking appointment and take the first step toward a brighter, more confident smile.

Health

Get Your Teeth Spark...

February 28, 2023 admin No Comments

Are you looking for a fun and educational way to improve your oral health? Join us at the Twinkling Smiles event on March 6th 2023, brought to you by Astradental Services and Curaprox. In this blog post, we’ll share all the details about this exciting event and why you won’t want to miss it.

What is Twinkling Smiles?

Twinkling Smiles is an event that provides valuable dental training to people of all ages who want to improve their oral hygiene techniques. Our team of experienced dental professionals will guide you through the proper way to brush and floss your teeth, as well as other important dental care topics.

Why Attend Twinkling Smiles?

By attending Twinkling Smiles, you’ll learn how to properly care for your teeth and gums, which can help prevent dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. You’ll also learn about the best foods to eat for healthy teeth and how to prevent common dental problems.

In addition to the informative training session, you’ll also receive special gifts and have the opportunity to meet other people who are interested in improving their oral health.

How to Register for Twinkling Smiles

To register for the event, simply give us a call at 0727591579 or 0732561588. You can also send us a text message for more information. Spaces are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot early.

Who Should Attend Twinkling Smiles?

Everyone is welcome to attend Twinkling Smiles! Whether you’re a child or an adult, if you’re interested in improving your oral health and learning more about dental care, this event is for you.

What to Expect at Twinkling Smiles

When you arrive at the event, you’ll be greeted by our friendly team of dental professionals. You’ll then be guided through the various training sessions, where you’ll learn how to properly care for your teeth and gums. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have about dental care.

During the event, you’ll also receive special gifts to help you maintain good oral hygiene at home. And after the event, you’ll leave with a better understanding of how to take care of your teeth and gums.

Location

The event will be held at Astradental Main Clinic, located at Mpaka Plaza, 1st Floor, Mpaka Road, Westlands Nairobi, from 9am to 4pm.

Cannot wait to see you…

At Astradental Services, we’re committed to providing the highest quality dental care to our patients. The Twinkling Smiles event is just one way we’re giving back to the community and helping people improve their oral health. We hope to see you at the event, where you can learn valuable dental care techniques, meet other people who are interested in oral health, and have a fun and educational time.

Children Oral

Dental Care for Chil...

January 26, 2023 admin No Comments

Why is it so important?

Dental health is an important aspect of overall health and well-being, especially for children and teenagers. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups can help prevent a wide range of dental problems, from cavities and gum disease to tooth loss and jaw problems.

What can Parents do?

One of the most important things parents can do to promote good dental health in their children is to teach them the basics of proper oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing. Children should be taught to brush their teeth twice a day, using a fluoride toothpaste, and to floss daily. Parents should also supervise children’s brushing and flossing until they are able to do it on their own.

Healthy Diets…

Another key aspect of dental health for children and teenagers is a healthy diet. A diet that is high in sugar and processed foods can lead to cavities and other dental problems. Parents should encourage their children to eat a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and other nutrient-dense foods.

Regular Dental Checkups…

Regular dental check-ups are also essential for maintaining good dental health. Children should see a dentist at least once a year, and more often if they have any dental problems or are at high risk of developing them. During these check-ups, the dentist will examine the child’s teeth, gums, and jaw, and will clean the teeth as needed. They may also apply fluoride treatments or sealants to protect the child’s teeth from decay.

Do not forget about special needs too…

In addition to these basic preventive measures, parents should also be aware of any special needs their child may have. Children with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or a weakened immune system, may be at higher risk for dental problems and may need extra care and attention.

In conclusion, dental health is an important aspect of overall health and well-being, especially for children and teenagers. Proper oral hygiene, a healthy diet, and regular dental check-ups are all key to maintaining good dental health. Parents can help promote good dental health in their children by teaching them the basics of proper oral hygiene, encouraging a healthy diet, and scheduling regular dental check-ups.

Oral

Dental Floss

November 19, 2022 admin No Comments

Did you know?

Regular flossing plays a crucial role in your dental hygiene. When you skip flossing, plaque can build up between your teeth and along your gumline. Over time, this can increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), interdental cleaners such as floss play a vital role in removing plaque and debris from areas that a toothbrush can’t reach.

Read on to learn more about the key benefits of flossing and how often and when you should floss. If you’re looking for alternatives to floss for interdental cleaning, we have that covered, too.

What are the benefits of flossing?

Digging out a lingering piece of popcorn or removing some leftover spinach from between your teeth feels really good.

But, in addition to helping your teeth and gums look and feel good, flossing also has many other benefits. Let’s look at these benefits in more detail.

1. Gets rid of plaque

Plaque is a colorless sticky film that collects around and between your teeth and along your gumline. Although it’s difficult to see, plaque isn’t something you want lingering in your mouth for very long.

Plaque forms on and around your teeth when bacteria in your mouth mix with starchy or sugary foods and drinks. These bacteria release acids that break down carbohydrates. If you don’t brush your teeth, the bacteria, acids, and carbohydrates can mix together to form a film of plaque on and around your teeth and gumline.

The bacteria in plaque can release acids that attack your tooth enamel. If these acids aren’t removed with brushing and flossing, it can, over time, lead to cavities.

What’s more, a buildup of plaque can harden and turn into tartar, which collects along your gumline. When this happens, you increase the risk of developing gum disease, according to the ADA.

Regular flossing can help remove food particles from around your teeth, as well as plaque that’s built up between your teeth.

2. Reduces the risk of cavities

Tooth decay can result in a cavity, which causes a tiny opening or hole in the hard surface of your teeth known as enamel.

Although this process takes time, the more plaque you have on the enamel of your teeth, the higher your risk of developing a cavity.

Flossing between your teeth at least once a day can help get rid of hidden food particles and plaque buildup, and lower your risk of tooth decay.

3. Helps prevent gum disease

Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease. One of the first signs of gingivitis is inflammation around your gums. Your gums may also bleed when you brush or floss your teeth.

If gingivitis isn’t treated, it can lead to a more serious infection known as periodontitis. This can cause your gums to recede or pull away from your teeth. Your teeth may lose bone support and become loose. If not treated, periodontitis can cause an inflammatory response throughout your body.

Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day can help reduce your risk of gum disease. Professional cleanings done by your dentist every 6 months can also help keep your gums healthy.

4. Reduces bad breath

Bad breath (halitosis) is a common problem. But flossing is one of the tools you can use to keep bad breath away.

When food gets trapped between your teeth, it slowly starts to decay. If you don’t remove the food particles, it can cause you to have foul-smelling breath.

Also, if plaque builds up around or between your teeth and starts eroding your tooth enamel, it can cause cavities and gum disease, which contribute to bad breath.

5. May help your heart health

Good dental hygiene doesn’t only benefit your teeth and gums. It may benefit your heart health, too.

According to a large 2019 study, participants who adhered to a high standard of oral hygiene had a decreased risk of atrial fibrillation and heart failure.

That said, the American Heart AssociationTrusted Source says a connection between oral health and heart health may have more to do with a link between the health of your mouth and the overall health of your body.

Regardless, flossing your teeth is a simple, low-cost way to help boost your oral hygiene as well as your overall health.

How often should you floss and when?

The ADA recommends brushing your teeth for 2 minutes twice a day and flossing at least once a day. Some people prefer to floss during their morning routine, while others like one final cleaning before bed.

It’s generally recommended that you floss your teeth before brushing them. When you floss, you typically loosen food particles and plaque around your teeth. The brushing action then helps to remove the plaque and particles that you’ve removed from your teeth and gum line.

Types of floss

Standard dental floss generally comes in two varieties: waxed and unwaxed. Choosing between the two often comes down to personal preference, especially since the ADA claims there’s no difference between the effectiveness of the two types. If your teeth are closer together or crowded, a wax coating may make it easier to get into those tight spaces.

Floss also comes in tape form, which is broader and flat and works well if you have gaps in your teeth.

Additionally, if you have braces, bridges, or gaps, you may want to try a super floss. This type of floss has a regular floss thread, spongy floss, and a dental floss threader with a stiff end.

If you find traditional floss hard to use, there are some floss alternatives you can try, such as:

water flossers
air flossers
interdental brushes

These tools allow you to use water, air, or small brushes that are similar to a mascara wand, to clean the sides and between your teeth.

According to the ADA, these are all acceptable tools for removing food and debris from your teeth.

Flossing instructions for Normal Teeth

Break off about 18 to 24 inches of dental floss. To hold the floss correctly, wind most of the floss around both of your middle fingers. Leave only about 1 to 2 inches of floss for your teeth.
Next, hold the floss taut with your thumbs and index fingers.
Place the dental floss in between two teeth. Gently glide the floss up and down, rubbing it against both sides of each tooth. Don’t glide the floss into your gums. This can scratch or bruise your gums.
As the floss reaches your gums, curve the floss at the base of the tooth to form a C shape. This allows the floss to enter the space between your gums and your tooth.
Repeat the steps as you move from tooth to tooth. With each tooth, use a new, clean section of floss.

Flossing instructions for braces

Break off about 18 to 24 inches of waxed dental floss.

Stand in front of a mirror so you can make sure the floss is going where you need it to.

Start by threading the floss between your teeth and the main wire. Twist the loose ends of the floss around your index fingers so you can move the floss around easily.

Press the floss between the two teeth as gently as you can. Then, move the floss up and down along the sides of both teeth.

When working on your top teeth, try to make an upside-down U with the floss. To do this, go up the side of one tooth until you get to the gumline. Then, glide the floss down the side of the other tooth.

Gently remove the floss and carefully unthread it from behind the wire. Avoid popping the floss out of your tooth, as you could dislodge a wire.

Now, move on to the next two teeth, and use the same technique until you’ve flossed between all your teeth.

When should you floss?

Knowing the right time to floss also contributes to good oral health. Some people have a routine of brushing their teeth first and then flossing. However, it’s generally recommended to floss and then brush your teeth.

Flossing helps lift and release food and plaque stuck in between your teeth, while brushing removes these particles from your mouth. If you brush first and floss afterward, food and plaque remain in your mouth until the next time you brush.

The American Dental Association recommends flossing at least once per day and brushing twice per day.

Types of dental floss

Dental floss comes in many varieties. Which type of floss is best for you depends on your preferences, the amount of space in between your teeth, and whether you have braces or bridges.

Some dental floss is easier to use in wider spaces, whereas other types of floss are easier to use in tighter spaces.

Different types of dental floss include:

Dental tape. This type of dental floss is broader and flat like a ribbon, making it easier to handle if you have braces, gaps, or large spaces in between your teeth.
Standard floss. This is a thin, nylon strand that can fit in between teeth. It comes flavored or unflavored as well as waxed or unwaxed. If your teeth are crowded or closer together, dental floss with a wax coating can make it easier to get in between them.
Super flosses. This dental floss threader can work with braces, bridges, and gaps. It has three components: a stiffened end for flossing underneath appliances, spongy floss to clean around your appliances, and regular floss to eliminate plaque underneath your gumline.

Other tools to make flossing easier

In addition to dental tape, waxed floss, and floss threaders, other tools can make flossing easier and faster.

One option is to use an electric flosser or a water flosser, which uses water and pressure to remove plaque and food from in between teeth. Both are great options if you have trouble using regular floss. A water flosser is also useful if you have braces. This device can clean in between brackets and wires.
Another option is to use disposable floss picks. They’re easy to maneuver and can help you floss hard-to-reach teeth in the back of your mouth.

Final thoughts…

Good oral hygiene involves more than just brushing your teeth. It also involves flossing and knowing how to floss correctly.

Flossing helps remove bacteria, plaque, and food from between your teeth, and it reduces the likelihood of tooth decay and gum disease. Along with regular brushing and flossing, make sure you also schedule regular dental cleanings at least twice a year.

Health Oral

Bad Breath(Halitosis...

September 18, 2022 admin No Comments

What is bad breath?

It is also known as halitosis or fetor oris. Bad breath can cause significant worry, embarrassment, and anxiety but it is relatively easy to remedy.

Fast facts on bad breath

Here are some key points about bad breath. More detail and supporting information is in the main article.

Bad breath is estimated to affect 1 in 4 people globally.
The most common cause of halitosis is bad oral hygiene.
If particles of food are left in the mouth, their breakdown by bacteria produces sulfur compounds.
Keeping the mouth hydrated can reduce mouth odor.
The best treatment for bad breath is regular brushing, flossing, and hydration.

What is halitosis?

Share on PinterestAlthough bad breath is associated with certain diseases, oral hygiene is the most common cause.

Bad breath is a common problem that can cause significant psychological distress. There are a number of potential causes and treatments available.

Anyone can suffer from bad breath. It is estimated that 1 in 4 people have bad breath on a regular basis.

Halitosis is the third most common reason that people seek dental care, after tooth decay and gum disease.

Simple home remedies and lifestyle changes, such as improved dental hygiene and quitting smoking, can often remove the issue. If bad breath persists, however, it is advisable to visit a doctor to check for underlying causes.

Treatment

The best method to reduce halitosis is good oral hygiene. This ensures that cavities are avoided and reduces the likelihood of gum disease.

It is recommended that individuals visit the dentist for a check-up and cleaning twice a year.

The dentist may recommend a toothpaste that includes an antibacterial agent or an antibacterial mouthwash.

Alternatively, if gum disease is present, professional cleaning may be necessary to clear out the build-up of bacteria in pockets between the gums and teeth.

Causes

Potential causes of bad breath include:

Tobacco: Tobacco products cause their own types of mouth odor. Additionally, they increase the chances of gum disease which can also cause bad breath.
Food: The breakdown of food particles stuck in the teeth can cause odors. Some foods such as onions and garlic can also cause bad breath. After they are digested, their breakdown products are carried in the blood to the lungs where they can affect the breath.
Dry mouth: Saliva naturally cleans the mouth. If the mouth is naturally dry or dry due to a specific disease, such as xerostomia, odors can build up.
Dental hygiene: Brushing and flossing ensure the removal of small particles of food that can build up and slowly break down, producing odor. A film of bacteria called plaque builds up if brushing is not regular. This plaque can irritate the gums and cause inflammation between the teeth and gums called periodontitis. Dentures that are not cleaned regularly or properly can also harbor bacteria that cause halitosis.
Crash diets: Fasting and low-carbohydrate eating programs can produce halitosis. This is due to the breakdown of fats producing chemicals called ketones. These ketones have a strong aroma.
Drugs: Certain medications can reduce saliva and, therefore, increase odors. Other drugs can produce odors as they breakdown and release chemicals in the breath. Examples include nitrates used to treat angina, some chemotherapy chemicals, and some tranquilizers, such as phenothiazines. Individuals who take vitamin supplements in large doses can also be prone to bad breath.
Mouth, nose, and throat conditions: Sometimes, small, bacteria-covered stones can form on the tonsils at the back of the throat and produce odor. Also, infections or inflammation in the nose, throat, or sinuses can cause halitosis.
Foreign body: Bad breath can be caused if they have a foreign body lodged in their nasal cavity, especially in children.
Diseases: Some cancers, liver failure, and other metabolic diseases can cause halitosis, due to the specific mixes of chemicals that they produce. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause bad breath due to the regular reflux of stomach acids.

Rarer causes of bad breath

As mentioned earlier, the most common reason for bad breath is oral hygiene, but other situations can also be to blame.

Rarer causes of bad breath include:

Ketoacidosis: When the insulin levels of a person with diabetes are very low, their bodies can no longer use sugar and begin to use fat stores instead. When fat is broken down, ketones are produced and build up. Ketones can be poisonous when found in large numbers and produce a distinctive and unpleasant breath odor. Ketoacidosis is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition.
Bowel obstruction: Breath can smell like feces if there has been a prolonged period of vomiting, especially if a bowel obstruction is present.
Bronchiectasis: This is a long-term condition in which airways become wider than normal, allowing for a build-up of mucus that leads to bad breath.
Aspiration pneumonia: A swelling or infection in the lungs or airways due to inhaling vomit, saliva, food, or liquids.

Symptoms

The specific odor of breath can vary depending on the cause of the problem. It is best to ask a close friend or relative to gauge your mouth odor, as it can be difficult to assess it yourself.

If no one is available, one way of checking the odor is to lick your wrist, leave it to dry, and then smell it. A bad smell on this area of the wrist is likely to suggest that you have halitosis.

Some individuals are concerned about their breath even though they may have little or no mouth odor. This condition is called halitophobia and can lead to obsessive mouth-cleansing behavior.

Home remedies

Share on PinterestOral hygiene is the key to most bad breath issues.

Other lifestyle changes and home remedies for bad breath include:

Brush the teeth: Be sure to brush at least twice a day, preferably after each meal.
Floss: Flossing reduces the build-up of food particles and plaque from between the teeth. Brushing only cleans around 60 percent of the surface of the tooth.
Clean dentures: Anything that goes into your mouth, including dentures, a bridge, or a mouth guard, should be cleaned as recommended on a daily basis. Cleaning prevents the bacteria from building up and being transferred back into the mouth. Changing toothbrush every 2 to 3 months is also important for similar reasons.
Brush tongue: Bacteria, food, and dead cells commonly build up on the tongue, especially in smokers or those with a particularly dry mouth. A tongue scraper can sometimes be useful.
Avoid dry mouth: Drink plenty of water. Avoid alcohol and tobacco, both of which dehydrate the mouth. Chewing gum or sucking a sweet, preferably sugar-free, can help stimulate the production of saliva. If the mouth is chronically dry, a doctor may prescribe medication that stimulates the flow of saliva.
Diet: Avoid onions, garlic, and spicy food. Sugary foods are also linked to bad breath. Reduce coffee and alcohol consumption. Eating a breakfast that includes rough foods can help clean the back of the tongue.

If breath odor persists despite controlling these factors, it is recommended that an individual visits a doctor for further tests to rule out other conditions.

Diagnosis

Often, a dentist will simply smell the breath of a person with suspected halitosis and rate the odor on a six-point intensity scale. The dentist may scrape the back of the tongue and smell the scrapings as this area can often be a source of the aroma.

There are a variety of sophisticated detectors that can rate odor more precisely.

They include the following:

Halimeter: This detects low levels of sulfur.
Gas chromatography: This test measures three volatile sulfur compounds: Hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, and dimethyl sulfide.
BANA test: This measures levels of a specific enzyme produced by halitosis-causing bacteria.
Beta-galactosidase test: Levels of the enzyme beta-galactosidase have been found to correlate with mouth odor.

Our dentists at Astradental services will then be able to identify the likely cause of the bad breath.