Toothache is one of the most common dental problems encountered by many people. Although it is quite common and a mild concern for some, this dental problem indicates that there is a problem with your dental health, even at the very least.

There are various reasons why toothache occurs. Tooth decay, abscessed tooth or a more severe tooth decay that is already affecting the roots, and tooth fracture are just some of the most common causes of toothache. Other than these mentioned reasons, food can also contribute to the occurrence of toothache. Too much sweets or acidic food can affect the health of your tooth enamel and its root itself.

To help you out, here are some of the things that you should do when you have a toothache:

• Avoid hard, sweet, or hot meals and drinks as much as possible. Biscuits, chunks of beef or pork, and too much chocolates should also be avoided as these may further induce pressure and sugar deposits to your aching tooth.

• Gargle a mix of warm water and salt to at least give you a temporary relief if medication is not yet applicable.

• For toothaches caused by tooth trauma, apply a cold compress to at least alleviate the pain while waiting for further medical attention.

• Refrain from applying pain-relieving gels or paste as its chemical components may harm your teeth and gums even more.

• Keep in mind that when your kids have toothache, you must only give them the medication prescribed by their physician.

• Watch over your intake of antibiotics and antiseptics. Make sure that you only take in the right dosage for these may further worsen the situation.

• If these initial or temporary solutions do not work, book for a consultation with your dentist as soon as possible.

On the other hand, many of us associate some food that can relieve the pain of toothaches. Here are some of the food that you might consider eating while having toothaches:

• Ice Cream. For sure, most of us have experienced being offered with ice cream upon expression of toothache. Despite its sweetness, the coldness of this yummy treat is believed to lessen the pain.

• Yogurt. You do not have to starve yourself when you have toothache. There are certain foods that are effortless to chew and can be easily swallowed. Aside from its smooth and soft texture, yogurts are healthy and packed with vitamins.

• Soup. In support to what was mentioned above, hot meals are not good for throbbing tooth. So, letting it cool for a moment may help a lot. Soups are best for those who are having a hard time chewing food due to the pain in your teeth.

However, you must keep in mind that only dentists, like Dr. Rowena Marzo, know the best for your oral care. So if you have a nagging tooth, contact us and book for a consultation with Marzo Dental Clinic now! We offer the best and most reliable dental health care services in the country.

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Simple as we may see it but the universal solvent (H₂O) — known to mankind as water — is very important to all living things. It is a gospel truth that you need to drink at least 8 glasses of water everyday to keep your body well-hydrated in order to function easily. Aside from that, water also keeps us refreshed and quenches our thirst. But, did you know that water is also a very important agent on keeping your teeth healthy as well?

The human body is made up of 60% of water. Thus, staying hydrated is very vital in order to help our body system distribute healthy nutrients, clear out wastes, make our skin glowing, and keep muscles functioning properly. In fact, fluoridated water, like some of those mineral water bottles available in the market, is better than your usual tap water.

Here are the factors that make water your ultimate dental health companion:

1. It keeps your mouth clean. Food and drinks like soda and sports drinks can often leave some residue in your mouth. The food particles and unwanted sugar deposits can turn into cavity-causing bacteria that lead to oral problems. Water can wash the residue and clean up your mouth. That’s why it’s very important to drink plenty of water after meals. But, you have to remember that you still have to brush your teeth regularly as well.
2. It strengthens your teeth. One of the best minerals for your teeth is fluoride. Some mineral water contain fluoride, so it also helps on mineralizing your teeth. This mineral is vital on strengthening the tooth enamel to compensate with the damages caused by the acids from the food and drinks you intake.
3. It prevents you from having a dry mouth. When your mouth goes dry, saliva production stops. Your mouth becomes dry when you drink less water. Lack of saliva means being at risk of tooth decay. Furthermore, saliva is very vital in the mastication or chewing of food and the whole digestion process. It washes the food in our mouth, keeps our teeth strong through calcium, fluoride, and phosphate, and allows you to swallow your food with ease.
4. It is free from calories. Sodas, tea, and alcoholic beverages contain acid, sugar and added calories. Since water is free of these cavity-causing agents, it is definitely good for the mouth.

Indeed, water is essential to all living things especially to humans. It doesn’t just keep our body hydrated but also makes it healthy. And, aside from being available everywhere, water is also affordable and very practical. But, don’t forget that water and brushing your teeth is not enough to ensure your oral health. Make it a point that you visit your dentist regularly.

Visit Marzo Dental Clinic now and get the most out of the best dental care services they offer. Book for a consultation now!

Sources:

Smile Care Team

Mouth Healthy

Joy Bauer

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Are you not contented with your smile because your gums rest too high or too low on your teeth? Worry no more, gum contouring is now being offered by various dental clinics in the country including Marzo Dental Clinic of Dr. Rowena Marzo.

Gum contouring or gingival reshaping is a cosmetic dental procedure that can mend an uneven gum line, giving way to a better smile.

Uneven gum lines are often caused by either genetics, a particular health problem, and prescription drugs. You must know that gums that are too high will make your teeth appear longer. This is usually caused by gum recession or the condition in which the gum tissue pulls back from a tooth and exposes its root.

In addition, gum recession can also result to tooth decay and even tooth loss. It may also be a sign of an existing periodontal disease whereas the supporting structure of teeth that includes gums and bones are deteriorating. Hence, gum recontouring may be suggested by your personal dentist.

Although gum contouring is not medically necessary, some people still undergo this procedure to enhance their smiles.

Here’s how it is being done:

A mild anesthesia will be administered to numb your gums while using a soft tissue laser to remove the excess gum tissue. This laser will be used to recontour and seal the tissue on to create the ideal shape for your gums while preventing it from continuously bleeding.

To avoid infections, your dentist may also use the laser to remove the hollows which can trap bacteria and later cause infection.

In Marzo Dental, an Epic Biolase is being used to remove the portion of the gums in order to reshape and contour it.

Things you need to do after the surgery:

1. Taking up some over-the-counter pain relievers after the surgery may be recommended by your dentist. But, avoid aspirin because it may cause too much bleeding.

2. For the first few days after your treatment, eat soft, cold foods (i.e. eggs, pasta, yogurt, cheese, soft vegetables, or even ice cream). As much as possible, refrain from eating spicy and seedy food.

3. Be diligent on what your dentist has advised you. In case of any other side effects, you should consult your doctor immediately.

***

To know more about the expertise of Dr. Rowena Marzo, visit our website and see dental excellence at its finest!

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There have been no proven benefits to smoking. If anything, it’s a means to reduce stress but in a way that also reduces your life span. Time and again it has been demonstrated that smoking cigarettes or tobacco takes off at least seven to eight years of your life. But that’s not all there is to smoking.

Smoking has a lot of effects to the system. And that includes your dental hygiene. One of the earliest and most common manifestations of smoking is bad breath. Cigarettes contain chemicals that build up in the mouth, causing bad breath. Unfortunately, that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Here are all the other ways your dental health may suffer due to smoking:

1. Tooth discoloration. Tobacco stains the teeth, causing these to turn yellow. This is due to the nicotine and tar present in tobacco.
2. Inflammation of the salivary gland openings located on the roof of the mouth
3. Buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth. Due to the tar and nicotine, plaque and tartar starts building up on the sides of the teeth.
4. Gum disease risks. If you have been smoking for a long time, you’re most likely to develop periodontal diseases or infections of the gum that affect even the bone structure of your mouth.
5. Tooth loss. Once your gum starts to show signs of suffering due to smoking, it weakens. The weakening of the gums is a bad sign as this can now cause your teeth to fall out, thus, tooth loss.
6. Slow recovery following an oral surgery. Smoking delays the healing process so expect your tooth extraction, oral surgery or other gum treatment to not heal anytime soon when you’re smoking.
7. Oral cancer risks. Smoking hits two birds with one stone. Aside from lung cancer, continuous smoking also increases your exposure to oral cancer.

Actually, it doesn’t stop there. Smoking is far too dangerous to your health, that the effects of it dentally are just a few of the scares that you should prepare yourself for if you’re a regular smoker.

If you can’t quit smoking altogether at once, be sure to visit your dentist regularly to be able to monitor how your teeth are doing and to be prepared for any dental diseases that might come along your way.

Entrust your dental health to only the best. Visit Dr. Rowena Marzo for utmost supervision when it comes to your dental needs and concerns. Clinic is located at Unit 1607 Medical Plaza, Amorsolo cor Dela Rosa St., Legaspi Village, Makati. You may also phone for reservation over at (63)9175293203, (63)9178176635 or email at info@marzodental.com.

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Tooth extraction is one of the most common dental procedures available in the practice today. Although it is still well-advised that permanent teeth should last for a lifetime, there are some reasons why this procedure is needed to be done.

Here are some circumstances that need tooth extraction:

• Damaged teeth due to decay. Tooth decay is one of the main causes why a tooth or even a set of teeth needs to be extracted. This is to prevent other teeth from being infected too. Most of the time, if a tooth decay extends to the pulp or the center of the tooth that contains the nerves and the blood vessels, bacteria can enter and may cause infection. Hence, tooth extraction is advised.

• Periodontal diseases. An infection of the tissues and bones that surround and support the teeth is called a periodontal disease. It can cause loosening of teeth, that’s why tooth extraction is being done as well.

• Other dental procedures. Orthodontia, a process to align the teeth, sometimes includes extraction for those teeth that cannot break through the gum for there is no room in the mouth for it. Same goes with applying dental braces.

Before the extraction

There are a few things that you need to tell your dentist prior to tooth extraction. People who have the following health concerns should seek for medical clearance from their physicians first before undergoing such crucial dental operations:

• People with damaged or artificially-made heart valves
• People with congenital heart defects
• People who have weak immune system
• People who have liver disease or cirrhosis
• People with man-made joints (like those who had hip replacement)
• People who have a history of bacterial endocarditis

Moreover, you should also advise your dentist on the medications and supplements that you are taking.

After the extraction

Recovery will be the next step after the operation. The patient must be adherent to the advice of the dentist on taking care of your mouth after the extraction.

Take painkillers as prescribed by your dentist and take a 24-hour rest after the treatment. It is also advised that you avoid doing rigorous activities for the next two days.

If in case you start experiencing some signs of infection such as fever, chills, nausea, or vomiting, it is best to call your dentist right away to know what to do. Always remember that it is very important to consult a well-rounded dentist, especially in this case.

When it comes to the best dental services in the country, trust the expertise of Dr. Rowena Marzo of Mazo Dental Clinic. Book for a consultation now!

Sources:

• http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/pulling-a-tooth-tooth-extraction#1
• http://www.allarounddentalcare.com/blog/reasons-for-tooth-extraction/

The post Things You Should Remember About Tooth Extraction appeared first on Dr Rowena Marzo Esthetic and Dental Implants Makati.

Myths are everywhere. May it be about health, taking care of your kids, or even about the food that you eat. Hence, the dental industry is not an exception to these bunch of misconceptions. To resolve this, the gap created by busting these dental health myths should be filled in by factual and well-researched data based on the industry experts.

Here are the top 5 dental health myths that should be debunked from now on:

MYTH #1: Using hard-bristled tooth brush is more effective

Truth: Using the right toothbrush, as prescribed by your personal dentist, is a must. However, soft-bristled brush is still best recommended to make sure that your gums will not be damaged and that the health of the tooth enamel will be maintained upon brushing your teeth. Soft-bristled toothbrushes are much more effective on cleaning as these can clean the hard-to reach parts of your mouth and are even gentle to your teeth and gums.

MYTH #2: Brushing your teeth more than two times a day will be better

Truth: Definitely, nope. Always make it a point that you brush your teeth regularly, at least two times a day, and just that frequent. Brushing your teeth too often can affect the tooth enamel that protects your teeth. In addition, there are also instances of gum bleeding due to excessive brushing.

MYTH #3: Teeth whitening treatments are dangerous to your teeth

Truth: This is quite ironic. Teeth whitening solutions are meant to give you healthier teeth, so, this is not true. Whitening treatments and bleaching are both safe and effective as these remove stains on your teeth that can develop into plaque – thus, giving way to oral health problems. These can also restore the natural whiteness of your teeth without causing any actual damage to your teeth.

MYTH #4: “Sugar-free” drinks are good for your teeth

Truth: Looks like your favourite cola provider kind of… got you there. Carbonated drinks will always be corrosive to your teeth regardless if it is “sugar-less” or “sugar-free”.  Why? These beverages still contain acid such as phosphoric and citric acid that can still damage your tooth enamel. Therefore, controlling the amount of your carbonated drink intake is really advisable.

MYTH #5: Seeking for dental health services is too much expensive.

Truth: This myth has been in circulation around the world for many years. However, it seems that this one is inevitable for some people who think that money is more important than their health. Nevertheless, most dental services are still affordable. The cost may vary depending on the case of your dental health or the oral problem that you have, but, you will definitely find a way or another to solve it by seeking professional help. Most dental clinics now offer affordable yet quality dental services so this should not be a problem anymore.

For more extensive consultation and solutions for your oral health, trust the expertise of Dr. Rowena Marzo of Marzo Dental Clinic! Call +632 843 7125 or 0917 817 6635 now!

Sources:

• https://www.citydentists.co.nz/dental-blog/dental-treatment/9-dental-health-myths-busted/
• http://cliniqueavenir.com/common-cosmetic-dentistry-myths-busted/?lang=en

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Dentures are aesthetic replacements for missing teeth, usually almost similar to the color of your natural teeth that can be taken out and put back in your mouth anytime. Needless to say, it is one of the most economic and practical solutions for missing teeth. As compared to dental implants, dentures are cheaper and much more available to many dental clinics.

However, just like normal teeth, your dentures also need proper care in order to maintain not just the quality of the dentures but also the health of your mouth.

To help you out, here are some useful tips on taking care of your dentures:

1. When handling your denture, make sure that you are standing over a folded towel or a sink full of water to make sure it will not break in case it drops.
2. Clean your denture thoroughly with a soft-bristled brush but without toothpaste. The substance in the toothpaste can be abrasive and create microscopic scratches where food stains may build up causing plaque.
3. Always make it a point that you rinse your denture every after eating your meals.
4. Make use of a denture cleaner, a hand soap or a mild dish washing liquid to clean your dentures. Using bleach is not advised as it may whiten the pinkish portion of your denture, thus, wear down its strength. Ultrasonic cleaners are bathtub-like devices that contain cleaning solutions for your dentures.
5. Remember the proper way of keeping your dentures if you will not wear it. It has to be kept moist when not being worn so it will not dry out or lose its shape. Place your dentures in a cleanser soaking solution or in water. But, if your dentures have some metal on it, it’s better to consult your dentist on the proper ways of storing it when not worn.

In addition, don’t forget that complete dentures can be used for 5 to 7 years only. Replacements can be done upon reaching this span of time wearing the denture you have.

Furthermore, wearing dentures also requires proper care for your mouth and gums. Brushing your teeth regularly is always a must and rinsing your mouth with lukewarm salted water is ideal to ensure the cleanliness of your mouth.

Need some repair or a replacement for your current denture? Consult Dr.  Rowena Marzo of Marzo Dental Clinic now for better results! Her clinic specializes in various dental services including Orthodontics and Dental Implantology. Book a consultation now and see dental excellence at its finest!

Sources:

WebMD.com

Colgate

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Wearing braces is both a gift and a curse. Sure, after number of years you will reap the benefit of having a perfect set of teeth and a killer smile, but the journey to it is a war-like ordeal.

It’s a battle of many-a-food proportions, and taking care of your teeth is extra special too.

Now, if you are wearing braces or seriously considering getting a set, you might be thinking if there is a kind of toothpaste you should be using for having braces.

Here’s what you should be looking for in a toothpaste if you have braces or about to get some.

1. Fluoride

In fact, even if you don’t have braces, you need a toothpaste that contains fluoride. Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens the enamel on your teeth, making the teeth less likely to decay. This mineral also helps minimize acid damage on teeth which is caused by acidic food and drinks.

2. Tartar Control

Wearing braces is a pain when you love food since bits and pieces of food can get stuck in your dental braces. Chewing food is one thing, removing them is another. Without proper care, plaque buildup can happen and lead to tartar. Tartar is a hard substance that causes tooth decay and other periodontal disease. And if you have braces, chances are it’s harder to remove tartar given the scenario.

3. Non-whitening Chemical

We all want whiter teeth, but if you have braces, you should stray away from toothpaste brands that have whitening chemicals. Why? Simple. You are wearing pieces of metal or ceramic bonded tightly to your teeth, and given the attachment, the toothpaste may not touch the places where the braces are attached. You might end up with unevenly white teeth once the braces are removed.

Wearing braces can be both a gift and a curse. But if you want to have a nice set of teeth ready to show the world that smile of yours, it’s definitely worth it. Trust Dr. Rowena Marzo to help you get just that. Visit her clinic at the Medical Plaza in Makati, located at Amorsolo corner Dela Rosa St., Legaspi Village.

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Having yellow teeth can definitely affect your confidence and of course, the brightness of your smile. A lot of people nowadays tend to forget the importance of having clean white teeth which makes them less conscious with their habits and food diet. Without them knowing, this makes them vulnerable to the risk of having yellow teeth.

Although you can actually prevent this from happening by means of brushing your teeth at least two to three times a day and flossing once a day, it is also important that you know what causes it. To help you out, we have listed down the six reasons why your pearly white teeth turn to a yellowish color.

1. Genetics – There is a great chance that you inherit the natural color of your parents’ teeth. The natural shades of the teeth when it’s not white are yellowish, greyish, brownish hue and more orange. If the color of the teeth runs in the family, there’s a possibility that you adapt the same hue of your parents’ teeth. In this matter, aesthetic whitening treatments may be applied to gain that pearl white color.
2. Visibility of dentin due to thin tooth enamel – Dentin is made up with 70% of mineral hydroxylapatite, 20% of organic material and 10% water. It is being protected by the tooth enamel and is naturally yellow-colored. That’s why when the tooth enamel is thin, the dentin becomes more visible. Thus, some teeth whitening treatments cannot guarantee the desired level of whiteness.
3. Aging and accidents – As we age, our teeth become weaker and turn yellow naturally because of the wear endured over time caused by food and acidic drinks. In addition, accidents can also affect the color of your teeth as trauma can crack tooth enamel that will lead to the discoloration. Thus, a proper medication from a dentist is greatly needed.
4. Smoking – Needless to say, smoking is really dangerous for your health and also your teeth. The substance called nicotine can harmfully damage not just the health of your teeth but also its color. It leaves a yellowish or brownish stain that can stick on your teeth for a very long time causing it to look dirty and irritating.
5. Food and drinks intake – The food that you eat and drink are very crucial to the color of your teeth. Various foods leave stain to the teeth causing it to appear yellowish. Extra-chewy candies can also greatly contribute to the discoloration of your teeth because of the large sugar-deposits it can induce to your teeth. Even coffee and tea, just like soda, can affect the color of your teeth due the citric and phosphoric acids that these contain. (See our blog about the Top 3 Food Groups that are Good for Your Teeth)
6. Fluorosis – Cliché as it may sound but too much can be really bad. One of the minerals that is greatly beneficial to the teeth is fluoride as it helps on “remineralizing” your teeth. But, too much fluoride can cause fluorosis. It is the yellow to brownish yellow spots that are caused by the excess fluoride deposits.

On the other hand, yellowish teeth can still be treated. You just have to find the right expert to do the job for you. If you’re looking for the best dentist based in Makati, come and visit Dr. Rowena Marzo’s clinic at Medical Plaza, Amorosolo corner Dela Rosa St. Legaspi Village, Makati City.

Source: 

• Colgate
• Smile Brilliant
• Mouth Healthy – ADA
• Live Science

The post The Six Reasons Why Your Teeth Turn Yellow appeared first on Dr Rowena Marzo Esthetic and Dental Implants Makati.

Aside from brushing your teeth, there is also another way of keeping your teeth and gums healthy – flossing.

Dental floss is a soft, strong, waxed or unwaxed thread that is usually made of nylon. This is made to go in between teeth in order to remove food particles and avoid the build-up of plaque (a sticky, bacteria-laden film build-up on your teeth).

Dentists recommend brushing your teeth two to three times a day and so as flossing your teeth at least once a day. But despite this important recommendation, many still forget to floss.

Flossing your teeth helps to remove food particles in between your teeth and under the gums that cannot be removed with normal brushing, keeping your mouth clean of cavity-causing bacteria and reducing your chances of periodontal disease and preventing gingivitis.

On the other hand, it is very important that your oral health is being monitored by a dentist because they can educate you on taking care of your dental needs. It is important that you regularly visit your dentist for him/her to assess and provide solutions to your existing oral health problems.

The key in the successful maintenance of your oral health relies on you following your dentist’s advice, especially if it concerns the proper way of cleaning your teeth like brushing and flossing.

Dr. Rowena Marzo of Marzo Dental Clinic can provide you with the best dental care services through her trusted and proven effective expertise. Book for a consultation now! Call (+632) 843 7125!

Sources:

• How Stuff Works
• Dictionary.com
• Delta Dentalins
• Dental Health
• Colgate

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