Lifestyle... 14
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
May 4 -10, 2013
The Dentist and you Mark Osmond BDS (Lond) LDS RCS (Eng). Mark Osmond Dental Clinic - (649) 432 3777, drmosmond@gmail.com or Find us on Facebook
Cosmetic dentistry
COSMETIC Dentistry is a general phrase used to cover any dental procedures that are performed for aesthetic reasons, that is to improve the appearance of teeth- rather than for clinical or medical purposes. In this article and the following one, I will discuss the various treatments that can be performed to cosmetically improve the appearance of your smile. Tooth Coloured Fillings: Although I have not personally placed a metal, mercury based filling for well over 15 years, this material is still commonly used both in USA and UK. (Some European countries have now banned it due to its potential to break down and be harmful.) From a cosmetic perspective, metal fillings look ugly and unnatural and for some people can be clearly seen in the mouth when talking or smiling. It is a simple procedure to remove the metal fillings and replace them with toothcoloured (white) filling material. A range of colours are available which ensure a perfect match can be found
Dr Mark Osmond for your teeth and once complete, your teeth will look completely natural and as though you have no fillings. Occasionally the grey colour of a large metal filling can actually leach deeply into the dentine of the tooth and discolour the whole tooth. A white filling will not eliminate this problem and the best solution in this case may be to crown the tooth. Dental Whitening: Dental whitening or bleaching can be performed when the teeth appear dull and grey. The whitening eliminates discolouration and brightens and whitens the smile. From a clinical perspective, there are two types of tooth discoloration, extrinsic (on the surface) and intrinsic (within the tooth itself).
Apricot friends
Ingredients: • 3 egg whites , whisked to soft peaks • 100g unsalted butter , melted and cooled • 125g icing sugar • 40g plain flour • 100g ground almonds , sifted together with the icing sugar and flour • 3 apricots, very ripe, stoned and diced (if you want some on top, as pictured, keep back a few pieces to add with the almonds) • 3 tbsp flaked almonds Directions: 1. Heat the oven to 200C/fan 180C/gas 6. Fold the egg whites and butter into the dry ingredients, followed by the apricots. Spoon into 8 well-buttered friand or muffin tins. Sprinkle with almonds. 2. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Allow to cool before serving.
Superficial extrinsic stains can largely be removed by regular brushing at home and professional cleaning at your dentist. Intrinsic staining is when the dentine inside of the teeth has changed colour and this is where dental whitening can really make a difference. Dental Whitening Solutions:
- In-office:
The procedure takes about an hour, and because it uses a relatively high concentration of bleaching gel requires a dentist to administer it. The lips and gums are protected and the bleaching gel is painted into the teeth. A 'laser' light can then be
used to help activate the gel. This accelerates the bleaching effects of the gel and generally improves whitening results. The gel is removed after approximately 15mins and the procedure is repeated another one or two times. This method produces the most rapid results; you will see an immediate, significant colour change at that first appointment. For 3 days after this procedure it is recommended that you do not eat or drink anything highly coloured. If the patient chooses, this can be followed up with the same in-office
treatment around 7 days later or by using the home-use kit. Professionally dispensed whitening kits for use at home This method is still effective but uses a lower concentration of hydrogen peroxide so results are achieved more gradually over a period of days. The kit contains pre-loaded trays which are applied onto the teeth for a period of an hour. I recommend repeating this for 4 or 5 days although the kits I stock contain enough for a 10 day course.
health Tip
Apricots APRICOTS are those beautifully orange colored fruits that have many benefits. Cancer Prevention: The powerful antioxidants found in apricots help protect the body from free radical activity and damage to cells and DNA. Though controversial, recent studies say that apricot seeds fight cancer due to their laetrile content. Laetrile, also known as B17, is a controversial substance found in the seeds (also known as "pits" or "kernels") of apricots. B17 has been noted for both its cancer-fighting potential as well as its supposed toxic effect on humans. The FDA banned laetrile in 1971 because it contains cyanide, a well known poison. However, recent studies have questioned its level of toxicity and many researchers claim that laetrile kills cancer cells without serious side effects. More research is still needed and individuals should consult a doctor before consuming apricot seeds. High In Antioxidants: Apricots are a good source of vitamin C and a great source of vitamin A, providing 20% of one's DV per serving. Heart Health: The beta carotene found in apricots is now considered by many studies to play a positive role in cardiovascular health and heart disease prevention. They help prevent oxidation to LDL cholesterol
and detoxify the blood. High In Fiber: The high fiber content in apricots offers a variety of health benefits. It may be essential in colon health, is great for digestion and helps balance the metabolism and maintain a healthy body weight. Eye Health: Fruit like apricots, high in vitamin A and carotenoids, are now considered by many to help strengthen the eyes. One report stated that eating 3 or more servings of these fruits per day may help to prevent age related eye disease like
macular degeneration. Anemia: Apricots contain a good amount of iron and copper, both of which may help in the formation of hemoglobin. Skin Health: Rubbing apricot oil on the skin may help relieve the symptoms of conditions like eczema and scabies. Weight Loss: Apricots are a low calorie, nutrient rich food source that may be a great addition to any weight loss program. In addition, the fiber in apricots may help to maintain a healthy weight level. The apricot is often overlooked in favor of other common fruits such as the apple, pear, orange or banana. But the apricot is just as healthy as those other fruits, in some cases even healthier.