Dental Newsletter Samples
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LUDWIG'S ANGINA
Q: What is Ludwig's angina?
A: Ludwig's angina is the name of a type of cellulitis - an infection and inflammation of tissue beneath the skin - that occurs on the floor of the mouth, under the tongue. It often occurs after an infection of one or more roots of the teeth or after some kind of trauma to the mouth. The condition is sometimes called submandibular space infection or sublingual space infection. The condition is serious because the swelling that accompanies is rapid and can block the airway or prevent swallowing saliva. This is an emergency situation that requires prompt action by you. It may be necessary for a health provider to put a breathing tube into your throat. Symptoms can also include swelling, pain and redness of the neck, fever, ear ache and drooling as a result of not swallowing saliva. The tongue also may be swollen and pushed up toward the roof of the mouth by the swelling beneath it. Regular treatment would involve the use of antibiotics to eliminate the infection. The best way to avoid getting Ludwig's angina is by visiting your dentist regularly and getting prompt treatment for the conditions, like an abscessed tooth, that put you at risk.
PRIMER ON BRACES
Q: What is the value of braces?
A: While their cosmetic role is obvious, straightening teeth into an orderly smile, there are other reasons for braces. Crooked teeth are harder to keep clean, a problem that can lead to tooth decay, gum disease and, down the road, tooth loss. Misaligned teeth can also be an impediment to talking and chewing and over time can cause abnormal wear on tooth enamel. Today's generation of braces, also known as orthodontic appliances, can be as visible or as inconspicuous as a patient likes. For instance, some brackets, which are affixed to the tooth to hold wires and elastics, are clear or tooth-colored. Advances in the equipment also make braces more comfortable and more efficient than they were in the past. There are two basic categories of braces: fixed, which are installed and removed by the dentist, and removable, which the patient can put in and take out according to the dentist's instructions for duration of wear. A person generally will wear braces from one to three years, followed by a shorter period of wearing a retainer to hold teeth in place. Talk with your dentist about whether you a re a candidate for braces.