KY Oral History

Cigarette Smoking Experience Unlike Before with Electronic Cigarettes

On a global basis, smoking can be considered an addiction.  As to whether most people deny it or not, there are a lot of smokers who just cannot just let go of smoking.  There are two popular reasons for this instance.  One of this is the act itself.  Most people like smoking because they like holding a piece of cigarette in their hands.  It can have something to do with the emotional attachment that they have to it but the idea of holding a cigarette completes them and that is a preference that can sometimes be difficult to let go.

Another reason to the addiction would have to be the elements that comprise every single piece of cigarette.  One notable ingredient of a cigarette is known as nicotine.  Nicotine (as shown in many researches) has been proven to be an extremely addictive substance.  This is because nicotine can trigger the hormone which produces the feeling of pleasure.  And once a person got into cigarette smoking, he or she may find it hard to resist all the time.  Now, you can blame it on the nicotine.

Sadly though, excessive smoking has its negative effects.  A lot of respiratory infections have been linked with smoking.  Examples of these would be asthma, tuberculosis, and lung cancer.  These conditions should be taken seriously because they are capable of taking your own life.  With the threats that smoking poses, does this mean that it should be avoided?  Not necessarily avoiding, but finding an ideal alternative to it.  Fortunately, there is an item called an electronic cigarette.

For some people, an electronic cigarette or an ecig may be something new.  However, it is a change that you should embrace most especially if you are a smoker.  It is a device that can simulate all the good things and experiences that a standard cigarette can provide but less the harmful stuff.  It is specially designed to look and feel like any other cigarette and it is definitely a tool that smokers who wish to quit can consider.

Most electronic cigarettes can be found in your nearest department stores.  They are sold by packages which contain other materials that can enhance your cigarette smoking experience like flavorings.  Yes, you have heard it right.  Electronic cigarettes have flavors.  They can be either chocolate, milk, vanilla or eve fruity.  If you want better deals though, a lot of online shops also sell electronic cigarettes and you will be assured of savings.  You will never see smoking the same way again with electronic cigarettes.

by  /  February 25, 2012  /  Posted in: Health
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Types of Periodontal Disease

A periodontal disease is kind of gum disease characterized by inflammation and infection of the ligaments and bones that support the teeth.  It takes over when a milder gum disease is left untreated.

There are two common types of periodontal disease:

  1. Gingivitis – The longer the plaque and tartar are on teeth, the more harmful they become.  Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums caused by bacteria.  The gums become red, swollen and bleeds easily.  But this is still a mild form of periodontal disease and it can be treated with regular cleaning by a dentist coupled with daily brushing and flossing using good quality dental products.  This type of periodontal disease does not include any loss of bone and tissue that hold the teeth in place.
  1. Periodontitis – If gingivitis is not treated, it can advance to periodontitis which is an inflammation around the tooth.  In this stage, gums pull away from the teeth and form spaces called pockets that become infected.  The body defense system then fights the bacteria as the plaque spreads and grows below the gum line.  The body’s natural response to infection and the clash with bacterial toxins cause break down of the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place.  It left untreated, the bones, gums, and tissue that support the teeth are destroyed.  Eventually, the teeth become loose and need to be removed.

In the earlier stages, periodontal disease treatment involves root planing and cleaning under the gum margins.  Plaque and inflamed soft tissue in the pockets around the tooth are removed to prevent further spreading of infection.  With the removal of bacterial colonies and chemical irritants, it is hoped that the disease can be eradicated.  The gum has to be reattached to the tooth or will shrink enough to eliminate the pocket.

In more advanced cases like periodontitis, the treatment may become more complex as fairly deep pockets remain.  Deep pockets can only be eliminated through minor surgical procedure called gingivectomy.  This procedure is done with anaesthesia and medicinal dressing to cover the wound area for a week or so while it heals.

In some cases, flap surgery and bone and tissue graft are needed to be done.  These procedures are more painful and cost more on the pocket.  You surely wouldn’t wish to undergo this painful surgical treatment.

Whether it is a mild or advanced stage of periodontal disease, having one can be very uncomfortable – personally and socially.  Thus it is best prevented than cured.  An excellent daily dental hygiene will stifle the bacteria’s chance on forming camps on food particles.

by  /  February 1, 2012  /  Posted in: Uncategorized
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Natural Treatment Options for Tonsil Stones

It can be difficult looking for the best treatment for tonsil stones. This is true to most people especially if you do not have knowledge of what a tonsil stone is and what the ways of removing them are. There are many ways of getting rid of tonsil stones and they can even be removed by natural means. In order to understand how to remove your tonsillolith or tonsil stone, you need to know exactly just what they are.

Foremost is to learn how tonsilloliths are formed as you start to get rid of them. Actually, these tonsil stones are lumps of bacteria that develop and form at the back of your throat. It is a must that treatment should be found for the removal of the tonsil stones because the presence of these stones are very annoying as well as present discomfort to your daily living. In addition, there is a need to eliminate the bad smell associated with having tonsilloliths.

If you cannot find the right treatment for your tonsillolith at once, you will end up having very bad breath. The good news is that there are natural treatments available for those who want to have them removed before opting for surgery. Surgery should always be your last option hence; you should try everything first instead of consulting your doctor for operation. Here are some natural treatment options for the removal of tonsil stones.

1. Gargling is considered an easy way to remove tonsilloliths. Warm salt solution can be used as this works to get rid of the sore throat and lift the stones off your tongue and throat.

2. A mouthwash can be a substitute for the salt solution if it does not work. However, choose the mouthwash that doesn’t contain alcohol as an ingredient. Look for the mouthwash labeled “natural” mouthwash.

3. If neither one of the above works, try using turmeric powder, pepper, and fenugreek seeds. Together with warm water, this mixture gets rid of the bacteria causing tonsillolith.

4. The throat and back of the mouth can also be scrubbed using your toothbrush. This will loosen and nudge away tonsil stones that are difficult to remove.

5. Avoid carbonated and alcoholic beverages, junk food, and coffee since these substances can cause the build up of bacteria.

There are actually many diverse treatment options for tonsil stones that are natural. These are only a few and always remember that surgery should always be the last recourse when all these natural treatments will not work for you.

by  /  January 16, 2012  /  Posted in: Dental Care, Health
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The Different Stages of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is one of the most common ailments affecting adults in America.  Recent studies show that 80% of the American adult population has or has suffered from periodontal disease.  Poor oral hygiene is the number one cause of periodontal disease.  As you know, plaque, the sticky substance formed by the food particles that gets left behind on teeth and the waste product of bacteria, provides a good breeding place for bacteria.  If left unremoved, it could harden into tartar which could irritate the gums even further and cause infection on the gum tissues surrounding teeth.  Depending on the severity of your gum disease, the dentist may administer intrusive or topical periodontitis treatment.  The early stage is often easier to treat, however, they are often the hardest to detect.  But you can be able to stop periodontal disease dead on its tracks early on by knowing the different stages and their symptoms.

The first stage of periodontal disease is Gingivitis.  This is characterized by red and swollen gums which are often painless.  Most of the time, gingivitis is hardly noticeable unless one takes a good look at one’s gums or see blood on his or her toothbrush.  If you suspect that you have gingivitis, take a pocket mirror and look at your gums closely.  Healthy gums are pinkish in hue and are rippled in comparison to inflamed gums which are red, plump and smooth.  They are also tender to touch.  If you are able to catch them early on, you can treat them by maintaining good oral health practices and using antibacterial toothbrush and mouthwash to kill off bacteria and boost healing.

If gingivitis is left untreated, it then develops into periodontitis.  This is when the tartar buildup starts to reach beneath the gum line, creating a gap between the tooth and the gums.  As bacteria produce toxins, it could wear down the bone and gum tissue that support the teeth and cause it to become loose or give your teeth an elongated look.  If this is left untreated, an individual with periodontitis could risk losing his or her teeth at an early age.  However, as periodontitis is also at times, painless, most individuals with this gum disease won’t realize this until it is too late.  Most individuals with periodontitis often spend hundreds of dollars in expensive periodontitis treatment and operations.

It is often easy to confuse gingivitis with periodontitis as both have similar symptoms.  However, periodontitis is often accompanied by itching or some discomfort on the gums.  The more sever cases of periodontitis are often identified by the elongated teeth or receding gum line as it is often referred to.  That is why if you notice the tell-tale sign of gingivitis, it is important to see a dentist right away as he or she is the only one who could properly diagnose your gum infection and administer the right treatment.  Apart from checking up with the dentist, maintaining good dental health rituals can help reverse or at least slow down the debilitating effects of periodontal diseases.

by  /  December 21, 2011  /  Posted in: Dental Care, Health
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Great Lakes Spas Hot Tub Covers Makes Spa Experience More Enjoyable

When we think of spas and hot tubs, we think of respite from rigors of daily life.  It is a welcoming thought to be going home and have the hot tub waiting for us at the end of the day.  Or let’s think of it in a less laborious manner – we can use the spa as a setting for entertaining friends.  You may also do some bonding moments with family members.  And if you want moments with yourself, you may be able to achieve that when owning your own spa at home.

Great Lakes Spas hot tub covers are perfect accessories for your Great Lakes Spas to ensure that tub is covered and protected when not in use and if being used, water is insulated properly.  Although the tub is designed to have Thermoshield™ insulation, having a cover would be able to supplement that function and in turn lower the operation cost of the spa.  The tubs are energy efficient making it an ideal investment.

Enjoy the hydrotherapy each shoot of jet gives you.  With Great Lakes Spas, you have a variety of jet system that can be interchanged as per preference.  You can get the therapeutic massage you want on specific areas by changing the spa jets for more effective results.  If you want a tranquil moments in the tub, you can switch the jet to the calmer jet.  However if you want intense massage select one that best serves the purpose.

Getting unconventional, high quality Great Lakes Spa covers will let you enjoy your tub more.  Unlike the traditional rigid foam spa cover that gets saturated over the course of time, covers made from marine-grade, top caliber fabric will ensure the cover will stay light as when it was purchased.  This will encourage you to use your tub more compared to dragging a heavy cover which could quite be discouraging.  And the covers made from fabric makes for a good insulator as it sits directly on top of the water in contrast to rigid foam where the space between the water and bottom of cover can create room for cooling of the water.

Enjoy your tub for its health benefits.  Enjoy the advantage of spa covers, as well because it lessens operational costs at the same time protects your spa from unwanted dirt.  Also, the cover will shield your tub from the elements, snow in particular.  It will keep the snow out without having to worry about the cover breaking.  Grab the perfect cover to get the pleasure from  using your spa on a regular basis.

by  /  November 9, 2011  /  Posted in: Spa Cover
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The Relation of Diabetes and Dental Diseases

People suffering from diabetes unfortunately have a lot of things to worry about and it’s bad enough that they have to deal with dental health problems. It affects everyone, young or old, rich or poor, and most especially the sickly as the body have lower defenses against infection. This is why people who have diabetes have rigid diets. Gum disease is a common oral problem that affects many of us, including those who are diabetic, because it makes them susceptible to infections.

The start of oral infections is usually the bacteria that settle in various areas of the mouth, most especially in between the teeth, on the cheek walls and a big concentration on the tongue. Even at its earliest stages, oral symptoms can be accompanied by a sharp pain that doesn’t go away overnight and may require medium to strong doses of painkillers to temporarily subdue the pain.

Periodontitis is another name for gum disease, and it usually starts with red gums. This means that there is something wrong with the tissue to get discolored like that. Red gums simply mean that the gums is irritated by something foreign invading the mouth and attacking the tissues and teeth. In the case of people with diabetes, they are most susceptible to these kinds of oral infections. In this problematic oral scenario, usually a red gum is accompanied by swelling or bleeding, or in the most unfortunate of cases, both.

Another infection that diabetics are vulnerable to is called “thrush”, a fungal infection caused by poor health and constant use of antibiotics. Aside from red, swollen gums, a person with thrush may develop very painful ulcers in the mouth. It is also said that high blood sugar can result to thrush. There is very little over the counter medicine that can help with this unless you only want a temporary respite. For more permanent solutions, you need to visit the dentist and have him or her look around and provide an answer to your dental problems immediately.

The gums are be swollen because of the activities of the bacteria which destroys and chips at one’s dental health bit by bit. Their attack is manifested in pus pockets, which come in reddish or whitish color around a certain area. You will need to see a dentist as soon as possible to remedy this. You should do everything you can when it comes to treating red gums and oral hygiene should always be the top most priority.

by  /  September 17, 2011  /  Posted in: Dental Care, Health
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Knowing what causes Gum Disease and Mouth Infections

Some of us may have experienced having gum disease during adult age. This however is dependent upon how we treat our teeth and mouth and on how we take care of them. Regular brushing, flossing and rinsing with mouth wash are the key to a healthy oral system. Although, there are some cases that no matter how much we take care of our mouth, there are still circumstances that trigger mouth diseases.

What are the factors that cause gum disease? One of the most common causes of this ailment is plaque. Plaque buildup develops from food particles and debris retained in the mouth after drinking or eating. This is prevented with regular brushing and flossing. This is the most common cause sighted however, there also other reason for having gum disease. Hormonal change is also known to be a contributing factor. The imbalances that occur mostly in women happen during the different stages in a woman’s life which are puberty (menstruation), pregnancy and menopause.

This hormonal imbalance makes the gum really sensitive causing the gums to be very prone to abrasion and therefore, gingivitis. Another reason known to precede gingivitis are illnesses. Being sick makes the body’s immune system weak and unable to fight disease causing bacteria. Examples of these would be cancer and HIV which damages the body’s immune system. Another example is diabetes which makes patients more prone to developing mouth infections and gum disease as the body’s ability to use sugar is disrupted.

In addition to illness, medication may also be noted to cause gum disease and other abnormalities in the mouth. These drugs may be in a way triggering your allergens and the body reacts by showing signs on the mouth and gums. Others have the effect of lessening saliva which acts as protective coating of the teeth and gums. If you see the mentioned symptoms after taking the medication, immediately consult your physician that he may possibly have an alternative for it.

Genes may also be one reason for being prone to gingivitis. The habit that is the most common issue causing gingivitis that is second in line from poor oral hygiene is smoking. This is a very damaging habit to the body in a holistic point of view. It damages not only your mouth or gums but also other organs such as the lungs, throat and tongue to name a few. The chemicals contained in the tobacco bring these damaging effects to the body.

by  /  August 20, 2011  /  Posted in: Dental Care, Health
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Bleeding Gums as a Condition in Gingivitis

The first sign that you will notice when you have gum infection is bleeding gums. Sometimes, the disease where this is apparent is gingivitis. When this is neglected and not treated the proper way, this may develop into a more severe condition called periodontal disease. This is an infection caused by bacteria present in the tissues of the gums. In the advanced stage, this may result to tooth loss.

The individual is to be blamed for problems such as this. The dilemma will start when the person is not vigilant with oral hygiene practices. Oral hygiene and proper dental care must start from childhood to avoid the occurrence of any gum disease as well as the condition of bleeding gums. Plaque is a layer of bacteria which cause build-up on the teeth over time. This gradually forms on the teeth and is speeded up when sweet drinks and foods are not properly removed from the teeth after brushing. This will encourage the growth of plaque which will develop into bleeding gums.

However, when one practices good oral hygiene, bleeding of gums can be avoided. When the teeth is brushed and flossed regularly especially after meals, this will stop plaque from forming on the teeth and prevent bleeding gums. This condition is also very common for pregnant women. Hormonal changes during pregnancy make the supporting and connective tissue in the gums softer and weaker. This increases the flow of blood which makes bleeding more likely especially in the gum area.

There are some people who are more susceptible to bleeding gums than other people. Factors such as stress, poor diet, and smoking triggers gum bleeding, as well as crooked or rough teeth. Certain drugs that have side effects and uncontrolled diabetes will also cause bleeding gums. Bleeding gums are also caused by hemophilia, scurvy or the deficiency in vitamin C, and leukemia, which are accompanied by other symptoms.

In the later and advanced stages of the disease, the teeth may become loose. At the worst stage, the gums will develop abscesses which cause the teeth to fall out. The best thing to do in the treatment of bleeding gums is to practice good oral hygiene. This is done by cleaning your teeth properly by brushing with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily and especially before going to bed at night. When the act of brushing the teeth makes the gums bleed, you may be brushing too vigorously. Spend two minutes gentle and circular brushing of the teeth to remove the plaque. This is accomplished not only on the surface of the teeth but also in-between them. Use dental tape or floss to remove the hidden particles of food stuck in the crevices of the teeth. Some people use mouthwash to refresh the breath and to dislodge any food particles that are still trapped in the teeth.

by  /  July 19, 2011  /  Posted in: Dental Care, Health
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Employing proper dental care for preventing gum diseases

According to statistics, gum problems in general affect more than half of the world’s population. And it is also a fact that most of the people affected have little or no knowledge about their condition. When diagnosing gum diseases, you must always see if you are experiencing any of the symptoms that make up gingivitis – the first stage of gum disease. Gingivitis is a type of gum disease accompanied by gums that easily bleed, gums that are discolored or ones that are swollen.

Gingivitis is just the start of gum diseases, when it progresses, it turns into periodontitis wherein the conditions worsen and eventually, the gums would recede or move away from the teeth, exposing more of the teeth’s roots and giving them the impression that they look sharp or long. All these could happen to any person because of improper dental care. How exactly must one brush their teeth or floss in order to acquire healthy gums and reverse gum disease? We’re going to discuss the basics in this article.

Receding gums could either be a result of gum infection through gum disease or overly aggressive dental care. Since most of these causes are related to dental care, we must be more conscious of how often we brush or floss and even if we do it frequently, it’s never enough unless the proper methods are used.

Brushing and flossing are two of the most important dental routines that must be established in order for one to cure receding gums and gum diseases in general. How exactly must one do it? Brushing must be done using the three rule – three means brushing the teeth three times a day, three minutes every time. And if that’s not enough, it must be done in a smooth circular motion and using a soft bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, making sure to cover all surfaces.

Flossing on the other hand must be done every after meal as it is your means of cleaning out food debris in between the teeth, ridding yourself of the risks of getting bacterial infection. Flossing must be done gently, making sure to cover the gaps between each pair of teeth.

A couple last basic tips a person needs to look out for treatment of receding gums and gum diseases is to first watch out for your diet – avoid sweets and if you must, just consume fruits as they can help build up your immune system, reducing the risks of gum diseases. Lastly, you must visit your dentist every 6 months for regular dental checkup and cleaning. This ensures you’re aware of whatever risks you may currently have on your gums.

by  /  June 27, 2011  /  Posted in: Dental Care, Health
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Treating gum disease with Natural remedies found at your home

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease in the medical world, is a condition in which the gums become swollen because tissue that supports the teeth becomes infected. This is caused by the sticky white substance that coats the teeth called plaque. Plaque is formed when bacteria in the mouth mixes with saliva and the residues from any starchy foods or sugar in the diet. If plaque is not properly removed, it will accumulate and hardens forming tartar. Over time, it will lead to the inflammation of the gums or gingivitis which then leads to tooth loss. There are a lot of treatments for gum disease like getting professional cleaning from your dentist. Other natural remedies can also be used to stop gum disease and most of them can be found at home.

Tea can be used as a gum disease treatment. A lot of people use tea bags on puffy eyes however, not all knew about the capability of a soaked tea bag to cure swollen gums and gum abscesses. The tannic acid found on the tea bag can lessen the swelling and eases gum tenderness. Just steep the tea bag in a hot water, let it cool for a while and then place it on the swelling gums or abscess.

Baking soda is a time-tested gum disease remedy. It is a popular ingredient in toothpaste due to its capacity to purify and freshen the mouth while gently cleaning the teeth. A little bit of baking soda can be dissolved in one cup of warm water to create a solution. Rub the solution to your gum line to soothe the gums and remove the bacteria that makes gum disease worse.

Adding green tea and fresh ginger can help in treating gum disease.  Drinking a few cups of green tea everyday will help soothe the gums. Eating small pieces of fresh ginger neutralizes mouth acid and can help in both healing and preventing gum disease. Essential oils can also be used as a home remedy. A few drops of these oils on our water, like clove, peppermint and sage, can be used as a regular mouthwash.

Aloe Vera gel is known to have a slight numbing effect and helps quicken the healing of gum tissues. This is very helpful for people with extra sensitive gums and teeth. It is also believed that aloe vera gel can increase the moisture in the mouth a which lessens bad breath.

by  /  June 20, 2011  /  Posted in: Dental Care, Health
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