Nature of Abscessed Tooth

Abscessed tooth is an infection affecting the root of a tooth or that which is located between the tooth and the gum. This causes openings in the tooth enamel which allows bacteria to enter the center of the tooth, referred to as the pulp. As a result, infection further spreads to the roots of the tooth until its supporting bones.

Abscessed Tooth Pictures

Picture 1 – Image of abscessed tooth

Picture 2 :  Tooth Abscess

Picture  3 – Pathophysiology of abscessed tooth

Image source – aae.org

Causes of Abscessed Tooth

The main culprit for abscessed tooth is bacterial infection, but these microbes will have no chance of multiplying if patients follow proper dental hygiene, especially for patients who have undergone complex dental treatments in the past. Research shows that they are more susceptible to this type of infection because it is pretty much possible that the exposed pulp or gum of the tooth may have been invaded by the bacteria, thus it is absolutely important for that patients who have undergone crown, root canal or tooth filling treatment to follow the prescribed medication of their dentist after the dental procedure.

Another possible factor for abscessed tooth is age. The immune system of the body decreases as it age which makes elders more susceptible to this type of infection. It would be helpful if you can take additional Vitamin C supplements to further increase your tolerance to these types of microbial attacks. But in any case, following proper hygiene will still be very beneficial.

Symptoms of Abscessed Tooth

1. Pain- Common toothache will not result to gnawing, throbbing, shooting or sharp pain; but if you are experiencing this type of pain then it is more likely that this is already a sign that you have an abscessed tooth.
2. Pain on chewing-you may also experience pain while chewing
3. Bitter taste in the mouth
4. Teeth sensitivity to cold and hot foods
5. Swollen neck glands
6. Swelling and redness of the gums
7. General discomfort and foul smell to the breath.

Treatment for Abscessed Tooth

As a rule, the abscessed tooth has to be drained to reduce infection and preserve the tooth. This is commonly done using the root canal method, wherein the nerve and pulp of the tooth is removed while the inside of the tooth is cleaned before it is sealed once again. In certain occasions, root canal surgery may also be done wherein the diseased root tissue has to be removed and a replacement crown will be placed over it. Another option is tooth extraction which will easily allow drainage of the abscess through the socket. The last option is the process of incision through the swollen gum tissue for the dentist to get rid of the abscess contained in it.

Pain Management in Abscessed Tooth

The pain experienced because of the abscessed tooth will not immediately subside even after draining it, thus dentists prescribe antibiotics which will further prevent the spread of the infection. To help relieve the pain and discomfort because of the abscessed tooth, dentists recommend warm salt-water rinses and over the counter medication for pain like ibuprofen which includes Motrin or Advil.

Common Antibiotics

Abscessed tooth is a result of bacterial infection, so one of the best ways to combat it is through the use antibiotics like amoxicillin, metronidazole, clindamycin, co-amoxiclav, and penicillin.

Amoxicillin

This is used as both cure and prevention for abscessed teeth. It may not kill the bacteria causing the infection but it will certainly stop it from multiplying and further destroying the cell wall of your mouth. It is available in different types of brand names like Dispermox, Trimox and Amoxil and can be administered in forms of capsules, tablets, and powder. However, patients should be reminded that use of this antibiotic may result to vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea and itching.

Clindamycin

This antibiotic is given to individuals who are allergic to the penicillin group. It helps prevent and eliminate the infection and is available under popular brand names like Cleocin. However, it should be taken cautiously with equal intervals and a definite prescribed duration because sudden stop in its intake may result to rapid bacterial growth. Some of the common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea and nausea.

Metronidazole

Metronidazole is an antibiotic used against susceptible bacteria. It blocks some of its functions resulting to its elimination. This type of antibiotic is commonly found under the brand name Flagyl and is currently marketed by Pfizer in capsules, tablets and injection forms. Some of the possible side effects of this drug include headaches, nausea and loss of appetite.

Co-amoxiclav

Co-amoxiclav is a type of antibiotic which contains amoxicillin trihydrate and potassium clavulanate. It can be purchased under the brand names Synermox, Exclav and Augmentin and has very minor side effects like nausea and diarrhea.

Penicillin

Penicillin is another antibiotic which is commonly given to patients suffering from abscessed tooth. Nevertheless, it is to be combined with beta-lactamase inhibitors so it can be protected against the possible offense of these harmful bacterial. In this manner, it effectively blocks the bacterial walls until it ruptures these microbes.

Home Remedies for Abscessed Tooth

If the pain caused by your abscessed tooth happens in the evening, when it usually does, you are left with no other choice but to use the available home remedy which can help relieve you of the pain. One thing that you can do is to place Strepsil throat lozenges right next to the area of the gum suffering from tooth abscess. This will quickly take effect on the infection and ease you of the pain.

For more simple home remedy tips, you may use salt gargle or alcohol swish to slightly prevent the growth and spread of the bacteria which causes you too much pain. Some even recommend placing crush garlic on the infected gum for about five minutes to help minimize the spread of the infection while some would even try using onions and placing it inside their mouth just to relieve them of the pain.

Tooth Abscess Dangers

Although this home remedy tips may be used, it is still best to go see your dentist immediately in the morning to address this dental concern. If you leave this untreated then it is very much possible that an eruption on the skin will occur resulting to infection on the surrounding tissues of the mouth. The eruption may ease the patient of the pain but the future concern will be more damaging since you will have more than one tooth to worry about.

Abscessed tooth is one of the problems dentists face each day. Man is fortunate that certain dental technology, innovations and practices have been discovered and made to provide them convenience. However, everyone should take note that it is our responsibility to care for our teeth. We must see to it that it is well taken cared of because its health rests in our hands.

Wisdom teeth are the last set of teeth that grows in humans, which typically sprouts between ages 17 and 21. This is a normal biological cycle but there are certain instances wherein the wisdom teeth experiences difficulty in growing normally and it gets stuck under the gums. Some would even find it difficult to break through it. This results to what is now known as impacted wisdom teeth.

Factors resulting to an Impacted Wisdom Tooth

Some of the factors which results to an impacted wisdom tooth is the inability of the jaw to provide enough space for the growth of these last set of teeth. Because of this, the tooth forces its way out at the wrong angle.

Statistics

The rate of individuals who suffer from impacted wisdom tooth is relatively high. It is not to be considered a dental worry but some would wish to eliminate this because it becomes a hiding place for plaque, food, and other debris which may eventually result to tooth decay.

Picture : Impacted Wisdom Tooth Image

Photo source : Wikimedia.org

Types of Wisdom Tooth Impaction

Dental experts have three classifications for the position of impacted wisdom tooth: mesial impaction, distal impaction, vertical impaction and horizontal impaction.

1. Mesial impaction, also known as angular impaction, is the positioning of the wisdom tooth toward an angled forward directed towards the front of the mouth.
2. Distal impaction refers to the positioning of the wisdom tooth towards the throat.
3. The vertical impaction is the positioning of the wisdom tooth towards the head.
4. The horizontal impaction is the positioning of the wisdom tooth sideways.

Degree of Wisdom Tooth Impaction

Aside from classifying impacted wisdom tooth based on the direction of impaction, dentists further classify them depending on the degree of impaction. Soft tissue impaction refers to the impacted wisdom tooth which is slightly covered with a gum. Partial-bony impaction is the impacted wisdom tooth which is covered by the gum and a few portion of the jaw bone. The complete bony impaction is the impacted wisdom tooth which is covered under the gum including all the jaw bone.

Impacted Wisdom Tooth Infections and Complications

You are lucky if you will not have any impacted wisdom tooth. But for those who suffer from it are prone to inflammation, facial abscess, numbness, cyst, and occlusal malalignment. Below is a brief explanation of these complications:

Cyst

It is pretty much possible that impacted wisdom tooth infection will cause cyst because of the sac which holds has the capacity to be filled with fluid. When this happens, you are to experience more pain because it may result to the damage of your entire jaw bone affecting a wide area of your teeth and nerves.

Damage to nearby teeth

Impacted wisdom tooth may force its way to erupt which may damage the second molar. Once it is pushed, the second molar becomes more vulnerable to infection. Moreover, individuals may experience misaligned teeth because of the growth of the impacted wisdom tooth.

Tooth Decay

Since impacted wisdom tooth is hard to clean, it is more prone to tooth decay. The trapped food it receives may develop plaque which will result to the faster growth of bacteria in the mouth.

Gum Disease

One of the possible problems that you may experience with impacted wisdom tooth is gum diseases. This is closely tied with the difficulty of cleaning this impacted wisdom tooth, especially that of the partially erupted wisdom teeth, which results to more inflammatory gum problems like pericoronitis.

In some instances, it may even travel downwards to your body system resulting to an airway obstruction which eventually leads to a sudden death. Thus, it is absolutely important to get rid of the problem during your younger years because impacted wisdom tooth extracted during the elder years becomes all the more problematic.

Causes of Impacted Wisdom Tooth Pain

Many attribute the cause of impacted wisdom tooth pain to stress like the nearing of final exam, pregnancy and relocation. When this happens, it is a sign that you have to seek the dentist’s assistance because the next pain that you will experience may not be as simple as it is in the past.

The pain experienced because of impacted wisdom tooth is extra-ordinary. The pain is not limited to the gums but extends to the eyes and to the head. You will experience swelling around the jaw and tender bleeding in your gums. This will make it completely impossible to eat which will result to many inconveniences. If you feel any of these, then it is high time to rush to the emergency room of your dentist and seek impacted wisdom tooth extraction.

Evaluative Measures before the Impacted Wisdom Tooth Treatment

An ordinary dentist may not be able to handle the extraction on his own. You may be requested to see an oral surgeon for further evaluation of your mouth condition. This is necessary so unwanted complications may be prevented in the future. For one, they will require you to undergo dental x-rays so they can reveal the presence of the impacted teeth and think of the best solution for it to be removed. You may also be requested to submit a medical history and a thorough examination of your gums and teeth for the operation to be successful.

Treatment

The only way for you to be free from the inconvenience brought about by impacted wisdom tooth is extraction. During this extraction, the dentist or your oral surgeon will make an incision on the gums so it can easily extract the bone that blocks the impacted tooth. Due to the complexity of these, you will be given local anesthesia to numb your mouth area; otherwise the pain will be unbearable. Once the extraction is completed, it will be stitched back and you will be given the necessary medication which must be strictly followed.

Post Extraction Problems Related to Impacted Wisdom Tooth

Expect bleeding to last until three days, which means you will be restricted to eat certain types of foods for a short period of time. You will also be limited to brush your teeth because the slightest touch on this area will cause bleeding. Gauze pads will be placed on the extraction site and should be firmly bitten down to hasten the healing process.

Swelling may also be experienced by the patient in a day or two but this is not suppose to cause you any alarm. Consider it a good sign because it implies that the healing process is normally progressing. But if the swelling occurs after a few weeks, then it is a signal that you have to go ahead and visit your dentist once again.

Never allow an inexperienced dentist to handle your wisdom tooth extraction because it is more sensitive that the common extraction that they perform. It requires more skills and knowledge. Avoid having to suffer unwanted nerve injury and complications which will produce more damage to your health and follow their prescribed post medications.

Impacted Wisdom Tooth Extraction Controversy

Due to the complexity and the complications that may arise because of impacted wisdom tooth extraction, there are certain dentists who do not recommend its extraction. In any case, the decision to proceed with the treatment rests in the hands of the patient.

Reference

http://www.dentistry4all.com/pdfnew/wisdomteeth.pdf

http://www.cc.nih.gov/ccc/patient_education/pepubs/thirdmolar.pdf

http://clinicalevidence.bmj.com/ceweb/conditions/orh/1302/1302-get.pdf

What are Flipper teeth?

Flipper teeth are types of false teeth that are similarly designed to that of an orthodontic retainer. It is clasped to the mouth with the use of wrought wire clasps that are strategically cured into the denture base structure, naturally pink in color to resemble the natural base structure of the mouth.

What are Flipper teeth made of?

Flipper teeth are made up of acrylic, the same material which is used in the manufacture of standard full dentures. This material is preferred because it is strong yet easily resembles the natural color of the tooth which makes it more cosmetically appealing.

Who are recommended to wear flipper teeth?

Those who have lost a single tooth or have 4 or more missing teeth which have natural teeth in between them are suggested to wear flipper teeth. This type of denture will conveniently replace the missing teeth and clasp it in place using wire clasps, so you can still flash a perfect set of teeth every time you smile.

Difference between flipper teeth for kids and flipper teeth for adults

Flipper teeth are ideal for anyone who wants immediate partial denture without having to spend a fortune on it. Kids are more recommended to wear this since they are still expecting permanent teeth to grow on their mouth in a few months time, however some kids feel humiliated going to school without a tooth so parents requests that dentists help them remedy this dental problem. Flipper teeth for adults are also used because these individuals find it impractical to pay thousands of money just for a dental implant. Therefore, they prefer to use this type of partial denture.

Picture : Flipper Teeth

Image source : dental-health.com

How are flipper teeth made?

Individuals who wish to take advantage of the benefits that flipper teeth can provide their teeth are advised to visit their dentist, so he can make a dental evaluation of your mouth. Once he sees that it is the perfect choice for you to have wonderful set of teeth, he will then create an impression of the tooth. This will give him the pattern of the tooth that has to be replaced. After which, he will construct the plaster cast where the acrylic tooth or teeth will be placed.

The dentists are not the ones who create the actual flipper teeth which you will use, but he is the one who sends this specific specification to the dental laboratory. Once it has been completed, he will then fit it into your mouth to guarantee that it is secured.

How much do Flipper teeth cost?

At an average, flipper teeth cost $300 to $500. The prices vary because of the number of acrylic teeth that has to be constructed together with the type of materials that will be used. Some dental patient requests for a more secure flipper, thus the addition of wires with little ball ends attached to the wire clasps. Nevertheless typical dental flippers are secured by simply snapping the pink acrylic between their teeth.

What are the advantages of Flipper teeth?

Convenient

Flipper teeth are very convenient to use.

Less time of fabrication

You can easily request it from your doctor and he may provide the specifications to the dental laboratory without too much complications. As a result, you can quickly wear this partial denture in time for a big event or occasion you are planning to attend.

Improve esthetics

Many parents are considering this for their kids, especially those who enjoy joining beauty pageant for children. It gives their child a pleasant looking smile even if she may have lost one of her front tooth. It is a relief to know that you can take advantage of this type of dental innovation because you are now allowed to flash that gorgeous smile even if you have already lost a single tooth.

Affordable

Aside from the convenience that flipper teeth bring, it is also preferred by many because of its affordability. While dental implants and dental bridges may be more secure, these cosmetic dentistry solutions will cost you more than a thousand. Not too many patients have the luxury to pay this fortune. Flipper teeth will cost only $300 to $500 and with a bit of extra care, you will have your complete set of teeth once again.

Flexibility

Last of the many advantages one will get using flipper teeth include flexibility. If you lose another tooth within the year, the dentist can use the existing base structure and simply add an acrylic tooth into it so it can replace the missing tooth. This makes flipper teeth an immediate partial denture that anyone would enjoy. It is economical yet cosmetically appealing so there is no reason why you won’t take advantage of it.

What are the disadvantages of flipper teeth?

Those who remain hesitant in requesting for flipper teeth argue that its irregular shape makes it a bit brittle, so you have to mind your manner of eating. They do not have stable bridges which are provided by dental implants and bridges, but this is the least of your worries since you can remove it while eating especially if you are just at the convenience of your own house. You may be a bit cautious when dining with friends but this is one of the compromises you have to endure for the price that you are willing to pay for your cosmetic dentistry.

Another concern raised by those who have tried it is the difficulty of concealing the clasp wires which ends up being revealed to the public. Many would be happy to wear the flippers if only it could be hidden from friends and colleagues. Some good dentists and dental laboratory professionals can achieve this result and assist you in hiding those unwanted clasping wires, but you do need to find excellent professionals who will do it for your.

How to take care of Flipper Teeth?

Take good care of your flipper teeth and it will not easily break. As a rule, do not wear it while sleeping because it is not healthy for your gums. Remove it and wash it under running water. Brush the acrylic portion like to remove any traces of oil. Clean the fake tooth using a soft toothbrush and tooth paste, just like what you will normally do with your normal teeth. Once done, rinse it in running water. Soak it in a glass of water overnight for it to be ready in the morning.

How about dental Flipper kits on sale online?

You may be taking good care of your flipper teeth, yet it still broke. How do you fix it? You can return to your dentist and request that he do the repair or you can buy flipper kits that are commonly sold online. Some are tempted to use this but if you do care for your dental health, then it is best that you let your dentist handle the repair for you. The formulation on this so called “super glue” may not be compatible with the materials used in your flipper teeth and can only result to dental complications.

Teeth grinding in children are growing to be one of the most annoying problems of parents. It is really irritating to hear your child grinding their teeth while you attempt to sleep peacefully in the evening. The least they can do is to cover their ears with the pillow and hope that it is part of the biological cycle their child is experiencing. Unfortunately, that is not the case. Teeth grinding or bruxism is an annoyance and must be properly addressed for it to stop.

Teeth Grinding Causes

Dentists believe that teeth grinding is caused by stress, but in case of little children they associate it with one of the following factors:

Emotional Factors

As mentioned above, your child may be experienced suppressed anger and frustration and may unconsciously vent out this emotions in their sleep manifested by teeth grinding in the evening.

Complications causes by other disease

Bruxism is not a major problem but it may be a hint that your child may be suffering from other diseases like Huntington or Parkinson’s disease. Although this is more associated with elders, it helps to bring your child’s condition to a physician so his condition will be properly evaluated.

Abnormal development of the jaws and teeth

This is one of the most feasible reasons why children experience bruxism. Their jaws and teeth are not yet fully developed and some are still in its growing stage. Your child may feel itchiness in the gum area and naturally responds to it through grinding.

Abnormal alignment of the teeth

Your child may have baby teeth but due to its weakness and abnormal alignment in the lower and upper teeth, it may also result to teeth grinding. This is an involuntary reaction of the mouth area as they try their best to make contact with one another.

Symptoms of Teeth Grinding

People suffering from teeth grinding will not be conscious of this problem, but those who live with them should be responsible enough to inform them about this issue. Take note of the following signs to identify if your child is suffering from one and should be brought to the attention of the dentist.

Intense clenching of the teeth

This is the primary symptom of children who suffer from teeth grinding in the evening. The child may be sleeping soundly but the teeth clenching is too extreme it wakes up other members of the family. At times, it can even be more annoying than snoring.

Worn down, flattened and chipped teeth

This is one of the worst things that your child may suffer if you will not attend to his problem of teeth grinding. He may end up with chipped teeth which can only be resolved through cosmetic dentistry.

Worn teeth enamels

The unconscious habit of teeth grinding will force your teeth to have worn teeth enamels. This is one of the things that you wish to avoid because once the teeth enamels get damaged then it will be more prone to tooth decay.

Teeth sensitivity

Due to the damage to the teeth enamel, most of the kids who suffer from bruxism will find tingling pain when they drink or eat very hot or cold foods.

Jaw pain and tightness

More of the pain experienced by the child is concentrated on the jaw and mouth area. Your child will certainly complain of these discomforts because of the pressure their jaw area experiences in the evening.

Several instances of earaches, headaches and facial pains

Teeth grinding also affect the muscular structures near the molars. This results to facial pains and recurring headaches which can only be relieved with aspirin treatment.

Damaged tissues of the cheek

Due to teeth grinding, the cheek will be prone to possible injury. So if your child complains of cheek wounds, this may be a sign of bruxism.

Picture : Teeth Grinding in Child

Diagnosis for Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding diagnosis rests in the hands of the dentist-in-charge. He will have a full examination of the mouth area together with the ear section for a possible temporomandibular joint disorder. This is necessary so the dentist can recommend the best form of treatment.

Treatment for Teeth Grinding

The treatments that will be used for teeth grinding vary. It depends on the possible cause of this abnormality. Here are some of the most effective methods that are highly recommended by dentists:

Stress Management

Since one of the possible reasons for bruxism in kids is stress, dentists will recommend an hour or two of session with a psychologist to help the child deal with daily stress.

Use of Dental Devices and Aids

Those who suffer from bruxism because of misalignment in the teeth and jaw and bone development issues are recommended to wear mouth guards, splints and similar dental devices before sleeping. Some of these mouth guards can be purchased over-the-counter, but it is always better to purchase these devices from a professional dentist to guarantee its result. It may be a bit expensive; but it will give you more assurance that your child’s bruxism will be lessened, if not completely cured.

Behavior Therapy

This is perfect for kids who find it difficult to control their anger or for those who don’t know how to release their frustrations. There are now lots of centers who specialize in behavior therapy for teeth grinding, so it will not be too difficult for parents to find one. Dentists may even provide you with the possible centers where you can go to.

Regular Medications

Muscle relaxants may also be provided by some doctors and dentists to help minimize bruxism. These drugs should be taken a few minutes before the bedtime. However there may be several side effects brought about by these drugs, so it remains one of the least options offered by these medical professionals.

Dental Surgery

This is rarely recommended for children suffering from bruxism, but for adults who are suffering from teeth grinding then this becomes the best options. Some of the dental procedures associated with it include use of crowns and overlays.

Home Remedies for Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding is expected to be outgrown by children as their permanent teeth erupts and their jaw fully develops. Due to this, some parents would prefer the use of home remedies like the following listed below:

Sleeping on your back

The best way to avoid suffering from teeth grinding in the evening is to sleep on your back. This is one of the most proven methods of fixing this dental problem. You just have to figure out how you will not end up sleeping on your sides in the middle of the night.

Use of warm wash cloth

Although a bit inconvenient, some children are used to placing warm washcloth around their face which will help prevent their jaws from clenching.

Use of warm massage and warm bath

Some parents would command their child to have a warm bath before sleeping. Some would even do the extra effort of massaging their child before sleeping to guarantee that they will have a relaxing sleep which is free from stress.

Use of magnesium and calcium supplements

The intake of additional food supplements like calcium and magnesium are also used by many as preventive measure to help lessen and stop teeth grinding.

Drinking of warm milk or herbal tea before sleeping

Warm milk or herbal tea before sleeping is one of the guaranteed ways used during the ancient times for a relaxing sleep. Many are still doing this to secure that their child’s teeth will not be making unnecessary sounds in the evening.

Performing deep breathing Techniques

This is a simple method with beneficial results. You can practice this technique before sleeping, so you will have a restful sleep.

Munching of apples and vegetables

You may chew all you want before sleeping in hope that your jaw will be so tired to involuntary work while you sleep. The foods you can enjoy munching includes apples, carrots and cauliflowers.

References

http://www.down-syndrome.org/updates/2048/updates-2048.pdf

http://www.journalsleep.org/Articles/290905.pdf

Teeth whitening are one of the most popular forms of cosmetic dentistry. It is readily available and can conveniently be bought in many stores. However, issues with regards to the use of hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide in teeth whitening products have been closely studied by various organizations. Below is a list of what they have to say in reference to the use of these chemicals.

What is Hydrogen Peroxide?

Hydrogen peroxide is a colorless liquid with a molecular weight of 34.0 which is often combined with phosphoric or mineral acid, pyrophosphate salts and stannate for it to become an effective whitening ingredient. It is commercially supplied in either 33% or 37% of aqueous solution with very low levels of organic impurities and inorganic impurities including heavy metals. It is miscible in water yet considered by many as a strong oxidant that can form free radicals through the process of hemolytic cleavage.

Properties of Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide has various uses which includes the following:

• Bleaching of textiles and cellulose pulp
• Disinfection of eye contact lenses
• Disinfection of wounds
• Mouth washing

What are the products which commonly use hydrogen peroxide?

Some of the products which make use of hydrogen peroxide include:

• Hair bleaching
• Dentrifices
• Oral antiseptics
• Ear drops
• Hair relaxer
• Sore Treatments
• Tooth bleaching
• Oxidation of permanent waves

What are the classifications of hydrogen peroxide based on its tooth bleaching usage?

Hydrogen peroxide used in tooth bleaching is classified into three. These are based on the amount of concentration that includes (1) the use of 30% to 35% of the hydrogen peroxide which is strictly for professional teeth whitening use (2) the use of 10% of hydrogen peroxide commonly associated with products dispensed by the dentist for home teeth bleaching product formulation and (3) the use of 6% of hydrogen peroxide for over-the-counter teeth bleaching products.

How Hydrogen Peroxide is useful for Teeth Whitening

Hydrogen peroxide assists in the degradation of complex organic and high molecular weight molecules, which are reflected in particular wavelength of light, which results to the production of certain stain colors. This process of degradation helps lower the molecular weight of these molecules resulting to the reduction or elimination of tooth discoloration. Dentists include this in their teeth whitening formulation because it has seen to effectively lighten the color o f the dentin and the enamel due to the easy passage of urea and peroxide through the tooth.

How long will teeth whitening treatment using hydrogen peroxide last?

The fastest time for teeth to whiten using hydrogen peroxide is three months, but those who are suffering from heavy tobacco stains and tetracycline stains may need to wait for as much as six months of nightly treatment before they can see the evident change.

What are the dental techniques associated with hydrogen peroxide teeth whitening procedure?

There are various dental techniques associated with the teeth whitening treatment using hydrogen peroxide. Some are as follow:

• It can be placed in dentist produced or commercially created trays.
• It can incorporated in strips that are also commercially available for public use. These strips are to be worn twice a day for approximately 30 minutes within a 14 day period before you see its effect.
• It is used in paint on gels for teeth whitening which are also sold in most stores. The gel has to be placed on the teeth for an overnight period and in due time, users will see how their teeth will lighten.
• In some instances, dentists may recommend combined abrasion techniques or bonded restorations to these whitening treatments in order to adder non-esthetic white areas of the teeth.

What is the general consideration which has to be evaluated before dentists prescribe teeth whitening treatment to their patients?

Due to the strength of the hydrogen peroxide, a dental examination has to be performed by the dentist before authorizing any teeth whitening treatment to the patient.

• Tooth restorations performed on the patient has to be taken into consideration because hydrogen peroxide will have no effect on the color of porcelain teeth, tooth fillings, and other restorative materials.
• Expectations desired by the patient should be corrected by the dentist. In as much as teeth whitening solution will help lighten the teeth color, it cannot produce a perfect set of white teeth. It has its own limitations.
• The lifestyle and habits of the patient will also be requested. It is useless to perform teeth whitening treatment on someone who is proven alcohol drinker or smoker because it will produce counter-effects on the whitening solution treatment.
• Other dental concerns include cracks on the tooth enamel, exposed root surfaces, and tooth defects.

Side effects (Dangers)

The use of hydrogen peroxide in teeth whitening products have been declared safe by the FDA, as long as the concentration is strictly followed, yet patients who wish to take advantage of its benefits should also be aware of its possible side effects. Some of which are as follow:

Mild tooth sensitivity

Some users experience pain when drinking or eating hot and cold foods. This is one of the common side effects of teeth whitening products as a result of the teeth’s chemical reaction to the solution.

Throat soreness

This is most likely to occur if patients accidentally swallow the teeth whitening solution.

Gum pain and irritation

Minimal amount of hydrogen peroxide does not propose any threat to the oral health of the user. In fact, studies show that 1.5% of hydrogen peroxide contained in mouth wash products is proven effective in preventing gingival problems.

Tongue discoloration

Research studies show that excessive use of mouth wash which contains hydrogen peroxide also results to tongue discoloration.

Those who failed to follow the instructions of their dentists or the guide included in over-the-counter teeth whitening products suffer from damaged teeth enamel. Everyone should bear in mind that highly concentrated hydrogen peroxide is to be administered by professionals alone because overuse of the product will result to extreme gum irritation and mouth irritation. Strictly follow the prescription of your dentist to avoid any unwanted discomforts to occur.

What is the difference between hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide?

Carbamide peroxide is another chemical solution which can be used in teeth whitening. However it’s primarily role is to slow down the process of decomposition and is usually combined with hydrogen peroxide for a better teeth whitening effect and additional teeth shelf life.

What are the traits of carbamide peroxide?

Carbamide peroxide comes in the form of white crystals or crystal powder and is highly soluble in water. It has bigger molecular weight of 94.1 compared to hydrogen peroxide yet shares similar side effects like skin irritation and ulceration if swallowed in large amounts.

Points to remember

It is safer to use teeth whitening products that are prepared by your dentist but it is best if you will choose the more expensive in-house teeth whitening treatment. You will realize that it is more economical in the future because it will give you a higher assurance that you will not suffer from unwanted health complications related to hydrogen peroxide toxicity.

Reference

http://www.ada.org/sections/about/pdfs/HOD_whitening_rpt.pdf

http://www.saudident.com/album/data/media/17/The_bleaching_of_teeth-A_review_of_the_literature.pdf

Crigler Najjar Syndrome or CNS is a rare type of disorder that affects bilirubin metabolism. Bilirubin is a chemical that is produced as a byproduct of heme catabolism. Crigler Najjar Syndrome gives rise to a form of inherited non-hemolytic jaundice resulting in the production of large quantities of un-conjugated bilirubin. The syndrome frequently causes cerebral damage in infants.

Crigler Najjar Syndrome has two types, type I and type II. The Crigler Najjar Syndrome, type II is sometimes referred to as Arias syndrome.

Crigler Najjar syndrome, type I

This rare disease is an autosomal recessive disorder and it affects around 6 to 10 people in per 10 million of live births. The conditions of this disorder are further intensified by consanguinity. Patients suffering from Crigler Najjar syndrome, type I are found to have serum bilirubin levels normally above 345 µmol/L (310 to 755).

The hepatic tissue does not show any signs of UGT1A1 expression. As a result, the patients show no response to Phenobarbital treatment. Most of the patients tend to have mutations in one of the common exons and face considerable difficulties while conjugating additional substrates like xenobiotics and other drugs. Some patients have mutations on the bilirubin-oriented A1 exon. In these cases, the conjugation difficulties are mostly limited to bilirubin.

Before the advent of phototherapy, children suffering from Crigler Najjar syndrome, type I mostly died of bilirubin encephalopathy or kernicterus; only some of them survived till the early years of adulthood. However, the surviving children clearly showed signs of neurological impairment.

Crigler Najjar syndrome, type II

The signs of Crigler Najjar syndrome, type II condition differ a lot from type I. The principal differences are:

• Bilirubin levels are normally less than 345 µmol/L (100 to 430; thus, signs of considerable overlap are present). In some cases, the lower levels of bilirubin are detected only later in life.

• Occurrence of kernicterus is infrequent in Crigler Najjar syndrome, type II due to the lower levels of serum bilirubin.

• Unlike the pale coloration of bile as seen in type I, type II is characterized by pigmented or dark bile. Monoconjugates found in type II form the largest portion of bile conjugates.

• Signs of UGT1A1 expression are present in the hepatic tissue at a much reduced but detectable levels. This is due to single base pair mutations.

• Treatment with phenobarbital shows considerable signs of effectiveness and decreases the serum bilirubin levels by at least 25%. This is one of the major aspects of differentiation between type I and type II.

• There has been a lot of difficulty to determine the inheritance model of Crigler–Najjar syndrome type II. However it is normally considered to be an autosomal recessive disorder.

Picture : Crigler najjar syndrome (Chances of Inheriting)

Symptoms of Crigler Najjar syndrome

The most common symptoms of this disorder are the development of neonatal jaundice and signs of icterus. The skin and the white portions of the eyes become yellow. The signs of jaundice start to show a couple of days after birth in Type I which continues to worsen over time. Type II patients may not show signs of jaundice until late infancy or early childhood. In some older patients, Crigler–Najjar syndrome can lead to confusion and sudden changes of thought patterns.

Crigler Najjar syndrome type 1 should be properly identified and dealt with at birth. If not, excessive presence of bilirubin may even cause brain damage, which is known as kernicterus or bilirubin encephalopathy. Symptoms of kernicterus include hypotonia or low muscle tone, lethargy and deafness. Severe cases may also lead to permanent brain damage or death.

Causes of Crigler Najjar syndrome

Crigler Najjar syndrome is an autosomal recessive disorder. Every individual genetically produces the enzyme called glucuronyl transferase. This liver is essential for the removal of bilirubin from blood. A range of probable genetic defects can diminish or halt the production of the enzyme glucuronyl transferase. When both genes producing this enzyme get defected, removal of bilirubin gets either partially or completely stopped. This increases the bilirubin levels in the blood to an alarming rate thus resulting in the development of Crigler Najjar syndrome. Crigler Najjar syndrome type I is the early form of the disorder while type II is a later form.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

You should seek medical counsel if you are considering pregnancy and your family has a history of Crigler Najjar syndrome. Alternately, you can consult your doctor if you find your newborn child is having a persistent case of jaundice.

Diagnosis of Crigler Najjar syndrome

Crigler Najjar syndrome is characterized by large quantities of bilirubin in the blood serum. Diagnosis involves various tests of liver functioning. Infants having Crigler Najjar syndrome, Type 1 have jaundice with their bilirubin levels between 17 and 50 mg/dL. Infants with Type 2 are also jaundiced with bilirubin levels ranging between 6 and 22 mg/dL. However in Type 2 cases, the occurence of jaundice may be seen at a somewhat later stage.

Neonatal jaundice may occur along with the presence of severe disorders like sepsis, hypoglycemia, hypoxia, hypertrophic pyloric stenosis, hypothyroidism, fructosemia, galactosemia and many others.

The probable factors responsible for the development of hyperbilirubinemia characterized by unconjugated bilirubin are as follows:

• Increased production of bilirubin caused by

1. Hemolysis or hemolytic disorder of the newborn, sickle cell disease, hereditary spherocytosis
2. Large hematomas or massive tissue necrosis
3. Ineffective erythropoiesis

• Decreased clearance of bilirubin caused by

1. Use of drugs
2. Neonatal cases of jaundice and prematurity
3. Liver disorders such as cirrhosis or advanced hepatitis
4. Lucey-Driscoll syndrome and breast milk jaundice
5. Gilbert syndrome occurring at the same time with Crigler–Najjar syndrome

The various tests conducted to evaluate the proper functioning of liver include

• Conjugated or bound bilirubin
• Un-conjugated or unbound bilirubin in the blood serum
• Total bilirubin level
• Enzyme assay
• Liver biopsy

In Crigler–Najjar syndrome, tests for checking liver functioning and hepatic histology are routinely conducted. There is no comprehensive evidence for hemolytic disorders. Symptoms which are triggered by the use of drugs normally regress after the medication is discontinued. Physiological neonatal jaundice can rise between 85-170 µmol/L. The high levels usually decline within two weeks and reach normal adult concentrations.

Crigler–Najjar syndrome Prevention

Couples looking forward to have children should go for genetic counseling and get blood tests done if either of the parents have a history of Crigler Najjar syndrome in their family.

Crigler Najjar syndrome Treatment

Dosage of phenoarbital can be administered to newborn children with Crigler Najjar syndrome type 2. In some cases, these children do not even require any treatment. However, children with type 1 Crigler Najjar syndrome need to be promptly treated for jaundice and kernicterus to avoid further potential complications. The various ways to treat this syndrome are listed below:

• Treatment of bilirubin encephalopathy is normally done with plasma exchange transfusion. This process involves removal of bilirubin-saturated albumin and introduction of free protein that removes bilirubin from the affected tissues.
• Plasma exchange should also be accompanied by long term light treatment or phototherapy. This converts bilirubin to easily soluble isoforms which can then be excreted through urine. Phototherapy in infants is done by using bilirubin lights or ‘blue’ lights. Phototherapy should be conducted for at least 12 hours per day; the process should be continued regularly throughout adult life. This procedure becomes less effective after age 4 as the skin of the growing child thickens, thus blocking the light.
• Phototherapy should be followed by oral doses of calcium phosphate as they help to remove bilirubin content from the gut.
• Liver transplantation can be used to treat some infants having Crigler Najjar syndrome type 1.
• Although largely experimental at present, therapies like cell and gene transfer may greatly enhance the treatments of Crigler-Najjar syndrome in future.
• Heme oxygenase inhibitors such as tin-mesoporphyrin or tin protoporphyrin can prove to be useful in reducing bilirubin on a short term.

Crigler–Najjar syndrome Prognosis

Milder forms of Crigler Najjar syndrome type 2 normally do not produce effects such as liver damage, severe toxicity or change of thought patterns during childhood. Patients still suffer from jaundice but show less symptoms and the risks of organ damage are much less.

Patients having severe cases of Crigler Najjar syndrome type 1 may suffer from jaundice even as adults and require regular treatment. Type 1 syndrome when left untreated may lead to brain damage and death. Even when the adult patients are treated regularly, they will suffer from brain damage caused by jaundice. The average life expectancy for patients having type 1 syndrome is around 30 years.

Crigler-Najjar syndrome is an autosomal recessive disorder that requires immediate medical attention upon detection. With treatment, this syndrome can sometimes be kept under control and the patient may lead a comparatively healthy life.

Blockage of the nasal cavity is the universal problem. People from all over the world suffer from the blockage of nose in minimum twice a year. Blocked nose or nasal stuffiness is one of the oldest problems that human beings are confronted with. Reaction of people against it has always been different as for some people it is only a nuisance and for others it has always been a source of discomfort.

Any how whatever the reaction of the people may be towards it, it is undeniable that this blockage of nose has always been very disturbing as it creates difficulty in breathing. Nose is a very vital organ for breathing and most of the breathing is being processed through it so the blockage of nose means interruption in breathing. For those people who breathe through mouth this nasal stuffiness values nothing.

What causes Blocked nose

Mostly it is observed that people suffer from blockage of nose in winter season but this is a mere observation. There are certain reasons that cause blocked nose and they are

• Infection
• Structural abnormality
• Allergy
• Sinus Infection
• Pregnancy

Infection

The foremost important reason of blocked nose is infection by virus. This infection is known as “common cold” normally every human being suffer from this cold thrice a year. These viruses very easily transmitted in human beings sometimes through air and mostly by contacting with the sufferer.

These viruses compel body to secrete certain chemical like histamine that increases the blood flow of the nose and causes the nasal tissue’s swelling resulting into the formation of excessive amount of mucus which blocks the nasal air way resulting into blockage of nose.

Structural abnormalities

Structural abnormality is very rare case of blocked nose. In such cases the divider membrane and bone of the nose may get injury and creates obstruction in the air path. There are few reasons of this abnormality.

• Through any kind of accident
• Nasal tumors

Allergy

Allergy is a condition that makes a person become ill or develop skin or breathing problems because they have eaten certain foods or been near certain substances.

In the blockage of nose allergy plays a very vital role. In Those people who are allergic with anything, it may be mold, pollen, dust or animal hair the production of histamine is higher than others which cause the increase in congestion and mucus.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy many women suffer from blocked nose because of the high rate of blood transmission in the body.

Blocked nose associated symptoms

• stuffy nose
• headache
• fatigue
• mild fever
• pain in upper jaw

How to clear a blocked nose

• Usage of Vicks on your nostrils
• If you are facing this problem try to breath slowly.
• Try to keep your chest and nose warm. It will help you in clearing the nose.
• Nasal saline spray
• Use steam and take long breaths into it.
• Never allow mucus to gather in your nose. Whenever required blow your nose gently.

Blocked nose remedies

As far as the blockage of nose with cold is concerned there is no remedy for it. Body takes its time against viral infection anyhow anti biotic may give you comfort in releasing pain and discomforts.
For those patients who are allergic certain anti allergic medicines are available that must be taken after the prescription of the doctor.
For those patients who suffer from structural abnormality surgery is recommended.

There are certain house hold tips for its remedy and they are;

• Use salt water
• Apply Vicks on your nostrils
• Drink as much water as you can to keep your nasal membrane well hydrated
• Do more exercise it will help in changing your body temperature resulting into the opening of your nose.
• In case of allergy try to avoid that thing which causes it.
• Eucalyptus essential oil is very useful and handy. Try to smell it
• Do not lay straight on bed rather than take a side. If you turn towards left it will clear your right nostril and when you turn towards right it will clear your left nostril.
• Try to breathe through your mouth
• Use steam of hot water after mixing some tea, eucalyptus or menthol.
• Drink hot water or tea with lemon. Try to take sip very slowly by keeping your nose as close to it as you can.
• Take a warm shower
• Try to keep your chest and nose warm.

References

http://www.entnet.org/HealthInformation/stuffyNose.cfm

http://www.ent-surgeon.co.uk/symptoms/nose.htm

http://www.wikihow.com/Clear-a-Stuffy-Nose

Coagulopathy is commonly referred to as hemorrhage or clotting disorder. It is any deficiency in the human blood system responsible for coagulation that results to a disposition towards very slow or rapid coagulation process.

In some instances, coagulopathy can show up with an increased hemorrhage or a propensity towards thrombosis.

Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (Consumptive Coagulopathy)

Disseminated intravascular coagulation is a serious blood disorder in which the proteins that control the blood clotting mechanism become over active.

Normally after an injury, the blood clotting proteins are activated and form a clot to stop the bleeding. In case of consumptive coagulopathy or disseminated intravascular coagulopathy disorder or DIS, the over activated proteins form clot within the blood vessels and clog them. This clogging of blood vessels cut off the blood supply to major organs thereby interfering with their normal functions.

Dilutional coagulpathy

Dilutional coagulopathy is caused by platelet defects and deficiency of clotting factors v and vii .

Hepatic coagulopathy

Liver plays an important role in the production of clotting factors and absorption of vitamin k. Changes in fibrinolytic and clotting systems, and impairment in the function of platelets lead to hepatic coagulopathy.

General indicators of coagulopathy

Apart from direct coagulopathy symptoms, there are other signs which may arise later when it persists for long without administration of coagulopathy treatment. These secondary coagulopathy symptoms regularly affect the brain, joints and also the other inner delicate organs. They vary in level of severity, which entirely depends on the particular cause of the dysfunction. The general pointers are:

• Hemorrhage on the gum or mouth region
• Recurrent nosebleeds
• Predisposition towards bleeding and bruises even with the mildest fall.

. Though minor bleeding can occur after slight injury, extensive hemorrhage is a clear indication of coagulopathy. Fast medical attention must be seeked in the event of heavy bleeding, or when hemorrhage becomes repetitive and difficult to stop.

Coagulopthy can cause ones joints to be painful, tight, and excessively hot. It also leads to minimized mobility in the joint’s movement range.

When to seek medical attention ?

In extreme cases, coagulopathy can result to brain hemorrhage which is life threatening. It’s advisable to seek direct medical care incase you presents any of the below symptoms.

• Recurrent vomiting
• Visual impairment
• Constant seizures and convulsions.
• Resounding difficulty in walking and talking, memory failure, tingling and severe fatigue.
• Blood stained or crimson-tainted urine
• Bloody feces, this blood can be black, scarlet or mildly tarry in complexion.
• Bewilderment and loss of perception, which may be repetitive and accompanied by headaches.

Common causes of coagulopathy

Coagulopathy can either be genetically inherited or acquired coagulopathy in due course of someone’s life. Any of the proteins responsible for coagulation may turn to be scarce or dysfunctional, thereby resulting to inability in forming protective blood clots when it is most needed.

Congenital coagulopathy- missing of genes that produces the coagulation factors normally.

Hemophilia A & B

Both of these are hereditary conditions. They result to insufficiency of ones blood structure towards deriving considerable ratios of Xa chemical at the exterior surface of any platelet, thereby resulting to inability to form a simple clot.

• Type A Hemophilia results from shortage of element VIII in the body. On the other hand, Hemophilia B occurs due to shortage of component IX. Nonetheless, the occurrence of this innate illness doesn’t necessarily mean that the particular clotting aspect is wholesomely absent. It may be in your blood system but at decreased levels.
• Hemophilia will slow down ones clotting course; someone suffering from hemophilia will experience repeated joint inflammation, soreness and stiffness as a result of the internal bleeding.

Deficiency of clotting factor chemicals

Deficiency of certain clotting aspects like fibrinogen and elements VII, II, V and X may also lead to inefficacy in the coagulation system. Patients suffering from coagulopathy require special attention as the condition can result to severe trauma if left unchecked for long.

Acquired coagulopathy

vWd disorder

The vWD disorder can also successively lead to Coagulopathy. This condition causes delay in the process of platelets sticking at the standard blood lining wall at the axis of injury, such is cased by minimal platelet concentration in the affected region.

Platelet deficiency

The inefficiency of platelets is also commonly referred to as thrombocytopenia. This condition happens when ones bone marrow generates lesser platelets than the required standard minimum.  When this happens hemorrhages at the skin surface along with other severe complications can result.

Vitamin shortage

The vitamin K is required in appropriate synthesis of several body clotting factors. If the supply of this vitamin is insufficient as a result of inappropriate absorption at the intestine, several coagulation aspects can turn out to be deficient thereby leading to internal hemorrhage.

Anticoagulant therapeutic prescriptions or Coumadin induced coagulopathy

This particular treatment is approved in common thrombosis for simple treatment and also prevention of the same.

Since anticoagulant medicines like warfarin or Coumadin are small molecular mass, heparin will specifically obstruct the procedure of clotting, their actual presence in your blood would cause coagulopathy. Concurrent flow of thin blood caused by these drugs can partly block up platelet aggregation, and further increase ones risk. Low oral vitamin K doses are proved to be effective in case of Coumadin coagulopathy.

Useful ways of reversing coagulopathy

Coagulopathy may be rooted from a variety of factors. For this reason, each individual’s case has to be approached on unique grounds. This is dependant on ones particular bleeding problem, along with the patient’s health background and present condition.

However, there are some simple measures which may be employed to reverse this situation.

• The first thing to do is seeking a medic’s advice to decide whether coagulopathy is the main basis of your hemorrhage disorder. Coagulopathy may come in several fashions which can include cuts not able to stop, extreme bleeding from the nose, gum bleeding, and intense skin bruising in the event of a fall.
• Abnormal menstrual flow for women can also occur. To wholesomely rule out any likelihood of coagulopathy it’s imperative to seek your physician’s diagnosis.   You need to corporate with the medic to ascertain the real cause of your condition by giving relevant information whenever necessary. It can necessitate lots of work and numerous therapeutic tests to establish the main cause of your disease. This disorder can be caused by subsidiary factors such as immune inefficiency, liver and also kidney disease. Insufficient count of blood platelets can also result it.
• One must also refrain from taking whichever medication that can hamper his/her bloods knack to clot; this is only if allowed by your personal medic. Some of these medications such as Asprin may lead to thinning of blood. High dosage pills of the vitamin E as well as green tea are also culprits when it comes to destructive thinning of one blood. Other medications such as Dalteparin, Heprin and Coumadin may only be approved by qualified physicians and nobody else. Practical removal of blood thinners would automatically reverse coagulopathy.

Facts about Coagulopathy treatment

• You must take care to use the vitamin K just as it has been prescribed by the physician. Remember that lack of this vitamin may turn to be the main cause of your situation. One must always take medication precisely as it has been prescribed for guaranteed prevention of coagulopathy.
• Also consider taking wide-spectrum antibiotics that have been prescribed by the physician for health dysfunctions like liver disorder which can result to coagulopathy.  Appropriate removal of this health condition can wholesomely deal with the blood issue.
• In some instances you may be required to submit over to a simple clotting transfusion just like it has been outlined by ones physician. This procedure is more often dependant on the total amount needed, alongside the kind of delivery structure that is to be utilized. It can incorporate several trips to a physician’s office, the outpatient center or a simple clinic. When your blood has been perfectly balanced, it can surely turn over to the regular clotting process that is meaningful.
• The patient should have either one or an extra blood transfusion, just as it has been ordered by the personal physician. In some circumstances, blood merely requires a fresh combination so that the condition may be corrected. Whether this process is repetitive or done once the person will have to effectively report to a simple outpatient center or hospital to complete this process.
• You should use fresh plasma to appropriately jump-start the system’s normal clotting procedure. This may necessitate more than one plasma infusion that will be carried out in an operational clinic, hospital or standard outpatient facility.

Characteristic diagnostic medical analyses which may be carried out include CBC, thromboplatin duration and also platelet number. Inadequate clotting can lead to hemorrhage problems which range from mild all the way to those that are life-threatening.

Basic medical therapies that can work

• Aminocaproic acid also known as (Amicar) would work very well in preventing breakdown of some blood clots. It can also be utilized to cease mouth hemorrhage in the course of dental action.
• Delivery control pills can further assist in controlling unwarranted menstrual blood flow in women suffering from coagulopathy.
• Desmoperessin acetate which is also simply known as DDVAP or also Stimate can be utilized in discharging blood thickens protein, which is regularly stored in your body to deal with minor cases of coagulopathy.
• Plasma derivative component concentrates along with conventional recombinant elements can effectively be used to replace particular missing clot elements.

Summary of Coagulopathy

• Receiving prompt treatment immediately bleeding commences is vital in thwarting or limiting extra injury and also damage.
• These complications can be life threatening if not properly dealt with. Nonetheless, one can always minimize risks through following set treatment plans that have been specifically prepared by his/her own physician.

References:

http://www.ornac.ca/conference/presentations/Truth_Consequences_of_Coagulopathy-Porter-Chang.pdf

http://www.pathology.vcu.edu/clinical/coag/DIC.pdf

What Is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is a disease that is marked by the perception of sound without the presence of an actual source of sound. In other words, this condition causes sufferers to hear noises even in the absence of a sound source.

Tinnitus ear disease is a rare condition that is becoming very common these days thanks to the overuse of earphones.

What Causes Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is usually caused by exposure to loud sounds. Unusually high sounds for even the slightest duration may affect the ear canal and result in a number of ailments like ear infection, drainage from ear and wax build up in aural drums. Tinnitus is one of these diseases.

Natural loss of hearing capabilities due to ageing and congenital hearing defects are also causative factors of this disease. Tinnitus can also arise as a side effect of using certain medications.

Tinnitus Symptoms

The typical symptoms of Tinnitus are the perceptions of ringing, whistling, clicking, whining and buzzing sounds in the ear despite the lack of ay external stimuli that can be held responsible for producing these noises.

People with Tinnitus also suffer from a brief amount of hearing loss. They are unable to hear many actual external sounds clearly.

Persistent Tinnitus can also give rise to mental problems in patients. Individuals with the condition may suffer from fatigue, clinical depression and irritability. Many people also have musical delusions, which indicate that they have a perception of hearing musical sounds even in the absence of such sources.

Tinnitus Treatment

The treatment of Tinnitus involves detecting the underlying condition. If the causative factor is found to be loud noise, treatment may involve use of sound-masking equipments and hearing aids. These are some effective cures for Tinnitus caused by loud noise.

Tinnitus remedy also includes use of Tinnitus medications. Administering Lidocaine injection into the ear has been found to temporarily reduce Tinnitus symptoms. Using Tricyclics like Amitriptyline and Nortriptyline in small doses has been found to produce similar effects.

Use of medicines like Acamprosate, Sertraline and Acamprosate has also proved quite effective in curing the symptoms resulting from Tinnitus hearing loss.

Objective Tinnitus can be treated with the aid of Botulinum Toxin and Gamma Knife Radiosurgery. In case of earwax plug, clearing the ear canal can be highly useful to stop Tinnitus ringing.

In people with Tinnitus vitamin or zinc deficiency has been often pinpointed as causes. This type of mineral deficiency can be cured with the help of Vitamin and Zinc supplements.

Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medicines are very useful in patients who develop Tinnitus due to mental illnesses.

Tinnitus Natural Cures

Want to know how to cure Tinnitus naturally? Some of the popular Natural Tinnitus Cures involve

Avoiding caffeine

Increased intake of caffeine is believed to be a reason for Tinnitus development. Sufferers are often advised to avoid caffeine for faster recovery.

Avoiding smoking

Over intake of nicotine is also associated with Tinnitus symptoms. Cutting down smoking has been found to be quite effective in curing Tinnitus symptoms.

Limiting salt intake

Over consumption of salt is also attributed to this disorder. It is best to limit your salt intake to a minimum for early recovery from this syndrome.

Herbal Remedies for Tinnitus

Is there a cure for Tinnitus the herbal way? Good news is, there are certain effective natural remedies for Tinnitus. Any of the following methods can be used to treat Tinnitus.

Pineapple intake

Eating fresh pineapple every alternate day can reduce inflammation in the ears and cure Tinnitus after a point of time.

Magnesium consumption

In case of loud-noise induced hearing loss Tinnitus patients should consume 500-1,000 mg magnesium every day. This has been proved quite effective in reversing hearing loss due to loud sounds such as listening to music for long hours in high volume.

Ginkgo biloba application

Direct application of Ginkgo biloba, the maidenhair tree extract, has been seen to expand blood vessels thus increasing the flow of blood and restoring audibility. It is one of the most trusted Tinnitus remedies.

Pulsatile Tinnitus

Pulsatile Tinnitus is one of the more severe kinds of Tinnitus. This medical syndrome is marked by a rhythmical noise that beats with the pulse rate of a person. It is a rare form of Tinnitus that arises in people suffering from problems like vein abnormality, hypertension, Eustachian Tube disorder and abnormal artery.

Pulsatile Tinnitus is said to result from an increase in blood flow in areas like the base of the skull, veins and large arteries in the neck and smaller blood capillaries in the ear.

Tinnitus Retraining Therapy

Tinnitus Retraining Therapy is a popular medical therapy aimed at people who suffer from ringing sensation in the ears. Noise generators are used in this Tinnitus therapy to make a background noise. Prolonged exposure to this sound helps cure the condition. Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) is a new treatment for Tinnitus. In this therapy Tinnitus patients often make a slow progress.

Tinnitus Test

Tinnitus diagnosis involves playing sounds of particular amplitude before a person suffering from Tinnitus. Sample sounds are played at under-5 decibels and over 70 decibels to gauge the extent of Tinnitus in sufferers.

Tinnitus Association

The American Tinnitus Association (ATA) is the biggest non-profit organization in America that is working to treat Tinnitus. Founded in 1971, it is headquartered in Portland, Oregon and serves and operates in the United States.

If anyone in your family is having Tinnitus or you are suffering from the condition yourself, it is advisable that you go for an early treatment. Delay in treating the condition can give rise to complications like chronic Tinnitus and make the disease a permanent problem. So it is best that you go for an early treatment to get Tinnitus relief and faster recovery from the condition.

References:

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/tinnitus.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tinnitus

http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/sym/tinnitus.htm

http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-tinnitus.htm

The knee joint has a fibrocartilaginous crescent-shaped structure that serves to distribute the weight of the body uniformly across the three bones that compose the knee joint namely the tibia (shin bone), femur (thigh bone) and the patella (knee cap). This structure is called the meniscus and aside from providing stability, it also acts as a spacer between the knee bones allowing them to move effectively without resulting to any damage.

There are two menisci in each knee between the surfaces of the articular cartilage: the medial meniscus (at the inner section) and the lateral meniscus (at the outer section). These structures also act as shock absorbers during jumping, running or walking between the tibia and femur. A meniscus tear would produce an unequal distribution of the body weight. The large central portion of the meniscus is not supplied directly by blood vessels, thus, any injury to this area would often fail to heal since oxygen and nutrients would not reach it.

Meniscus Tear

When the knee is forcefully rotated while supporting weight, a meniscal tear would develop.  This usually happens among athletes who play contact or field sports like football and soccer; or any vigorous pivoting or twisting activities or sports such as basketball, tennis, skiing or martial arts. The risk of meniscal tear also increases with age due to deterioration or degenerative tear.

Torn Cartilage

Both the meniscus and the covering of the knee bone peripheries are cartilages making the problem quite confusing. When people would speak of “cartilage”, they would be referring to either the meniscus or the articular cartilage. However, when a torn knee cartilage is being referred to, they are discussing a meniscus tear. When they are talking about deterioration of cartilage or arthritis, they are referring to the articular cartilage.

A torn cartilage in the knee would happen when the femoral condoyle is forcefully rubbed to the tibial plateau during a vigorous twist or abrupt stop. Another reason for a torn knee cartilage is when a person does deep squatting or kneeling particularly when lifting up a very heavy weight. An increasing body weight would add additional stress to the meniscus and would eventually end up with a torn cartilage in the knee.

Medial Meniscus Tear

Between the two menisci, the medial meniscus is more likely to be injured ten times more than the lateral meniscus. This is because it is attached to the joint capsule and medial collateral ligament, giving it less mobility. Any force coming from the external environment can cause a severe medial meniscal tear and would usually necessitate surgical intervention.

A torn medial meniscus can be caused by an application of any abnormal pressure to the medial meniscus pushing it between the knee bones. This would usually happen when a bent knee is twisted when the force is applied.

There are different types of torn medial meniscus: Bucket handle (longitudinal bucket-shaped tear), horizontal, radial (from the edge to the inside), complex and parrot beak tears. The severity of the medial meniscal tear would depend on the type, the zone of injury and size of the tear. If the injury occurred at the area where there is less blood supply, then the healing process is encumbered.

Lateral Meniscus Tear

The lateral meniscus has fewer attachments therefore it can slip around the top of the tibia. So a torn lateral meniscus is less likely to occur if abnormal pressure is applied to it as this cartilage can move more freely. But, nevertheless, a lateral meniscal tear can still occur with repetitive direct pressure to the knee joint or abrupt changes in direction and sudden twisting movements especially in combination with too much bending or straightening of the knee while the foot is flat on the ground.

There are two types of lateral meniscal tear: the longitudinal and the bucket-handle tears.

Torn Meniscus Pictures

Picture 1:  Torn Meniscus

Image source: uvahealth.com

Picture 2: Types of Meniscal tears

image source : nutritiousfoodie.com

Torn Meniscus Symptoms

The common symptoms of torn meniscus are swelling and pain. Individuals experiencing this problem would also complain of joint locking or the inability to straighten the knee joint completely which is usually a result of a torn cartilage interrupting the knee’s joint mechanism. Some would also feel a popping sensation.

Other symptoms of torn meniscus include:

• Tenderness at the joint line
• A generally weak knee that buckles with weight
• Limited knee joint motion

These symptoms of torn meniscus would usually resolve over time for slight injuries. But if the knees are severely inflamed and the pain is severe, medical help should be obtained.

Torn Meniscus Pain

The pain felt with meniscus tear is usually caused by the inflammation of the surrounding tissues of the knee. A small tear can cause minimal pain during the initial stage of the injury. As swelling develops, pain might increase slightly and is felt during movement such as rising from a seat, lifting or squatting. The pain usually fades away in two to three weeks or if the swelling has subsided.

Torn Meniscus MRI

The MRI is particularly effective in inspecting glitches in the meniscus. It would give high-quality images of the size and location of the meniscal tears. This diagnostic test is painless and would not require needles or any special dyes.

Torn Meniscus Treatment

Initial treatment for torn meniscus is RICE: Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. This would help lessening the inflammation. Anti-inflammatory medicines may also be given to help relieve the inflammation and the pain that goes with it. Once the inflammation has been resolved, exercises that help strengthen the surrounding muscles should be started to support and stabilize the knee joint. Use of arch supports or shoe inserts would help facilitate the distribution of the weight equally around the knee and decrease the stress on the affected part.

Larger tears would need a different treatment plan. In cases like these, the treatment for torn meniscus would require surgical intervention. Regrettably, only around one in four meniscal tear can be mended by surgery.

Torn Meniscus Surgery

A good number of operations are made by arthroscopy where a minute camera is introduced into the knee joint via a small incision and surgical tools are inserted on another small incision. The camera allows the surgeon to see the whole joint and repair or remove the frayed meniscus. The surgeon would try to save as much as possible a bigger portion of the original meniscus.

Other surgical treatment for torn meniscus would include partial meniscectomy where a part of the torn cartilage is cut out or trimmed to even out the surface.  Sometimes, the worn meniscus is stitched back together with tacks or sutures. Rarely will the entire meniscus be removed.

Meniscus transplant are now slowly being introduced. In this procedure, the cartilage is replaced with a donor tissue. An innovative procedure where meniscal implants is being introduced. Implants from natural substances are made and the person’s cells are allowed to proliferate into it.  This procedure is not available or done in most health facilities.

Torn meniscus surgery recovery time would depend on the extent of the damage on the meniscus. Some people could quickly get back to their routine activities while others may have less joint inflammation but still find it difficult to perform normal activities of daily living.

Torn Meniscus Recovery

After an arthroscopic surgery, a person with a sedentary job may return a week or two after the surgical procedure and full recovery is often experienced after 4 to 8 weeks. An athlete that needs a great deal of physical activity would need 3 to 4 months of torn meniscus surgery recovery time before the full function of the knee is recovered.

Partial meniscectomy would require 4 to 6 weeks rest period before an individual can go back to doing their normal activities.  It the meniscus was partially repaired, 4 to 6 months recovery time is expected. For ACL reconstruction, aggressive rehab program is needed and full recovery is expected after 6 to 9 months.  However, if the person has a desk job, returning to work would be allowed within one to two weeks.

Torn Meniscus Exercise

A person is encouraged to perform regular moderate exercises even before the knee has fully recovered. Activities that would place further stress or weight on the affected knee is not allowed until it has fully recovered. Non-weight bearing exercises such as swimming and cycling are firmly encouraged.

Knee Exercises for Torn Meniscus

Knee exercises can help in the recovery of a torn meniscus. The initial phase of the exercise should be slow and free of pain – do not wear out the knee. Keep in mind that the exercises are done to lessen the pain so they should be done progressively.

Stretching exercises would include: hamstring stretch, quadriceps stretch, heel slide and knee press. Strengthening exercises should also focus on hamstring, quadriceps, and abductor muscles. Static contractions on these muscles would help prevent their degeneration and weakening especially on the acute phase of the injury. Other strengthening exercises would include straight leg raises, knee extension, leg curl, hip and calf raises, hip adduction and abduction exercises, and squatting.

If inflammation starts to come back, the exercise should be discontinued for at least two to three days to give the muscles some rest. If no relief is felt after eight to ten days of doing these exercises then proper consultation should be done.

References:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/torn-meniscus/DS00932

http://www.medicinenet.com/torn_meniscus/article.htm

http://www.intelihealth.com/IH/ihtIH/c/9339/25679.html