health – Pearls dentistry | Best Dental Clinic in Chennai

03/May/2017

For part 1 of the same topic, click here.

Now that we have convinced you about the ill effects of stress on your teeth and hence your overall health, the next thing to do is to see how we can overcome this.

The obvious answer is to beat stress out. You may say, but my problems exist. How can I beat stress out? Try following what we recommend. These are easy to follow and will require just minimal efforts from your part. They will go a very long way in ensuring good oral hygiene and in preventing the hordes of health issues which you otherwise assail you!

Sleep: Yes, something as simple as sleep will help your body beat stress. When you sleep, all your body parts relax. They get rejuvenated and hence are in a better position to function with energy after the rest. Sleeping also calms your mind and hence stress is shoved out. Adequate sleep of at least 7 hours a day will promote your well being and keep stress at bay! Mind you, when we say 7 hours, we mean solid sleep of 7 hours.

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Drink lots of water: When you hydrate yourself regularly, you will be flushing out toxins. Stress induced toxins also get flushed out as a result. When toxins are cleared from your body, it feels fresher and hence better equipped to handle stress. Drinking water also cleanses your teeth. Whoever thought a humble glass of water has so many benefits?

Brush your teeth twice: Brush your teeth twice daily. Once as soon as you get up and once before going to bed. It will clear out all the bacteria which have accumulated in your mouth during the course of the day and night. Brushing twice is the first and most important step towards having very healthy teeth!

Avoid spicy, sweet, and junk foods: Your eating habits have a direct consequence on your teeth. Spicy foods, sweet and sticky foods, as well as junk foods are bad for both your teeth and overall health. Avoid them and your teeth will bless you! Seriously! Healthy food habits help in maintaining a good oral hygiene. Practise it! They also help in controlling stress and even vanquishing it!

Exercise and Meditate: Exercise and meditation help you combat stress successfully. They release endorphins which make you feel happier and hence less stressed. Incorporate exercise and meditation in your day and reap the benefits!

Summarizing, stress leads to a lot of oral complications. This as a result, also has an adverse consequence on the entire body. Beat stress and have a happy set of teeth. This will help you lead a healthy life, because clichéd as it may sound, happy teeth lead to a healthy life!

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Got any questions? Have any thoughts? Let us know through the comment section. Found the article useful? Share it please!

Pearlsdentistry

26/Apr/2017

“ Your teeth shine like stars”, said Ram to Shyam. “Absolutely! They come off at night! And mind you nothing to be proud of. I was letting everyday stress overtake my lifestyle and living. This resulted in my teeth getting affected and an entire gamut of consequent health issues. I had to get dentures to begin sorting my health troubles. Mark my words, take care of your teeth!” were the sage words of wisdom by Shyam to Ram.

This blog of ours is about how a stressful lifestyle and living have an impact on your teeth, which in turn has adverse consequences on your overall health.

A disclaimer, as ever… while the blog may get tad serious, we have every intention of getting you a little scared and make you take care of your teeth better!!!

Without further rambling, let’s dive headlong into the blog.

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Stress: The age old enemy!

Yes, you have heard about stress being the cause for just about every health hazard you face. The funny thing is it is true! Why would doctors keep harping on it otherwise?

Okay, question time. Are you dissatisfied with your work? Does your boss trouble you a lot? Worried about saving up enough to beat inflation? Family troubles besiege you? Is your answer to even one of these questions a a “Yes”? If so, then stress is slowly but steadily building up in your system. And know what? It has a huge negative impact on your teeth. Worries stress your body out and amongst the first things which get affected are your 32 pearls of wisdom!

Do you gnash your teeth often when you are stressed? (This was just an extra question and is not the reason for your teeth getting weaker! Unless you gnash really hard and break them!)

You are kidding! How does Stress affect my teeth?

Well before you think we are kidding, let us talk about the consequences. We all agree with the fact that stress is not good for the health. We will now elucidate how stress is related to oral health, and hence your holistic health.

First and foremost, if you are stressed out your brain conveys this to the entire body. All parts of the body work extra hard to handle the stress and still function optimally. Your teeth being the first step towards your getting energy (umm.. you eat food for energy, digestion starts from your mouth), have to work extra to help you beat the stress and still feel energetic. Now stress has a habit of piling up, the load on your teeth piles up to a point where they start weakening. What happens when your teeth start getting weaker? A whole lot of things!

You may start getting inflammation in your mouth. This leads to the weakening of your jaws, a slight change in your looks, and a dent in your confidence levels. Not just this, there is an established link between inflammation in your mouth and inflammation in blood cells which lead to heart diseases!

Poor oral hygiene leads to a lowering of your body’s immunity levels and weakening of the body. Studies have established deep links between bad oral health and osteoarthritis.

Stress causes diabetes is a known fact. What compounds the problem is that people with Diabetes end up having weak teeth which lead to other health issues!

Lung diseases like pneumonia get worse when a person has poor oral hygiene. The increased presence of bacteria in the mouth increases the attack on the body which worsens a lung condition.

Poor oral hygiene which leads to mouth ulcers causes irritable bowel syndrome and immune disorders. Now this is scary because it shows that stress, which affects your oral health, causes a serious weakening of your body and overall general health!

Pearlsdentistry

09/Mar/2017

Most of us are aware that if we don’t brush our teeth regularly we may end up having cavities, gum diseases and bad breadth. These problems may eventually result in loss of teeth. Poor oral health may also lead to other serious diseases that affect the lungs, heart, kidney, and the brain!

Although studies show that people rarely start their day without brushing their teeth, the interesting news is that only 20% of the people brush before going to bed. The reason behind skipping this highly recommended routine could be that they are unaware of the consequences. If you fall into this category, then it is time now to understand why it is important to follow this routine.

If you go to bed without brushing your teeth properly, the germs in your mouth break down the food particles that are left on your teeth, making them acidic. Over a period of time, this damages the outer coating (enamel) of the teeth. Once the enamel is affected, problems such as cavities and gum diseases etc. follow. As mentioned earlier, these problems may lead to serious health concerns. That is why our mouth is a “gateway” to our overall health.

To avoid these problems, all we have to do is brush our teeth regularly, at least twice a day, once in the morning and the other, before hitting the bed. By brushing every night before going to bed, we avoid waking up with a mouthful of bacteria that have feasted on the food particles that remained in our mouth overnight. This solution is not only for those who don’t brush their teeth in the night, but also for those who prefer to have bed coffee/tea i.e., to drink coffee/tea even before brushing their teeth in the morning.

Hopefully you have realised by now that brushing your teeth regularly, twice a day, is very important to maintain your overall health.

Pearlsdentistry

09/Mar/2017

Have you ever wondered what was used to clean the teeth before toothpastes came into existence? People used neem sticks, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, ginger, cinnamon, clove, peppermint, and certain essential oils.

What motivated people to switch over to toothpastes? Well, though the natural ingredients are harmless, some of them are overly abrasive to the enamel. The essential oils, if not diluted well, could cause burning sensations and blisters.

Toothpastes contain mild abrasives that remove plaque. They also contain certain active ingredients like fluoride, which makes our teeth resistant to decay as well as prevent diseases related to teeth and gums. Furthermore, certain special ingredients that are added to toothpaste remove stains and polish our teeth over time, resulting in a ‘whitening effect’. Lastly, toothpaste leaves a clean feeling in our mouth after rinsing and keeps our breath fresh.

Choosing the right toothpaste can be overwhelming, considering the number of products that are displayed on multiple aisles in almost any supermarket. Which type of toothpaste would you opt for – whitening, fluoride, tartar control, or herbal?

Let us look at the basics first. Toothpastes come in paste, gel or powder form. All of them contain more or less the same ingredients and are as effective. Hence, the type of toothpaste that you prefer is more a personal choice than a recommended one! Is there any ideal toothpaste that suits all? The answer is ‘No’.

The toothpaste that you choose depends on your unique oral needs (sensitive tooth, ulcers, dentures, etc.), dental disorders (if you are suffering from any) as well as your susceptibility to dental issues (bad breath, cavities, etc.)

Whitening toothpaste is generally recommended for people having stained teeth as it contains mild abrasives that help to “polish” the teeth and also prevents build-up of stain and teeth discoloration.
Fluoride toothpaste is recommended for people who are susceptible to developing cavities, as it protects the enamel and also strengthens the teeth. Most toothpaste contains this ingredient.
Some people have sensitive teeth and gums and find it difficult (or nearly impossible) to consume foods that are hot (coffee, tea, soups) or cold (ice creams and soft drinks). In that case, toothpaste containing desensitizing ingredients such as potassium nitrate or strontium chloride is recommended.
Tartar control toothpaste is recommended to prevent plaque build-up as it contains anti-tartar ingredients such as zinc citrate or pyrophosphates.
Natural (herbal) toothpaste offers a combination of anti-cavity and whitening options.
People wearing dentures should also clean with effervescent tablets and solutions in addition to brushing.

Remember that no toothpaste is effective if you do not follow a healthy oral routine – brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. But, choosing the right toothpaste can be a long-term solution to maintaining strong and healthy teeth in addition to preventing serious dental disorders.

Furthermore, stay away from toothpastes that promise the ‘magic’ of claiming to be an ‘all-rounder’ of all dental issues.

Pearlsdentistry

09/Mar/2017

Just like we have a family doctor who we primarily consult for general check-ups, it is advisable to choose a dentist who we visit regularly for routine dental check-ups. This way, your dentist is well aware your individual needs, right from your medical history, anxieties and allergies. Furthermore, developing a rapport with your dentist goes a long way in him/her taking responsibility in case any emergency arises in the future.

However, with numerous dentists (not to mention their different specializations) practicing all around, it can be quite challenging and confusing to find the right dentist who is suitable for you!

What factors should you take into account to choose your dentist?

Referrals: There is hardly anything more secure and trustworthy than a ‘word-of-mouth’ recommendation.Consult your known circle (friends, family, colleagues, etc.) to shortlist a few recommended names from which you can choose your dentist.

Logistics: It is advisable to choose a clinic that is located near you. Find out the working hours to evaluate whether that would be convenient for you. Also, enquire whether the clinic has provision for emergency procedures, late appointments (if you are working) or consultations during weekends.

Training and experience: Inquire about the dentist’s experience in effective diagnosis as well as handling special dental procedures.

Services: Clinics differ in the range of services that they offer. Check out whether these services match with your requirements. For example, if you are looking for cosmetic dental procedures, what options do they have? Do they meet your needs?

Ambience: Pay a visit to the clinic and check out whether the waiting room is well-organized. Is the ambience amicable? Does the staff behave courteously?

Patient-friendliness:It is extremely important that your dentist is approachable enough to address your queries patiently and also handle you anxieties. Talk directly to the dentist to find out his/her approach to treatment. Does he/she believe in preventive care?

Fees and insurance: Though this should not be the only or ultimate factor to finalize your dentist, it is important to find out the approximate estimates for dental check-ups and few common procedures and review whether it is affordable for you. Also, find out if the clinic accepts payments through dental insurance. Do they have special payment plans for expensive procedures? Remember that certain dental procedures are not covered by insurance, and hence, you have to incur these costs yourself.

Pearlsdentistry

09/Mar/2017

So you have planned to embark on a trip to Chennai. Yes, you need to have your appointment with the dentist and get your teeth in top condition. However, a trip to Chennai need not just stop with a visit to the dentist. Chennai has much more to offer than just high quality and cost effective dental care! This write-up of ours will focus on some of the places which you can visit in Chennai.

# 1 Beaches: A melange of colours and food!

Sunshine and sea waves are available in abundance in Chennai! Home of the second longest beach in the world, The Marina Beach, Chennai also has many other smaller beaches which dot her coastline. Edward Elliots Beach or commonly referred to as Bessie Beach in Besant Nagar is another beautiful beach which is a must visit, if you like watching the sea! There are smaller beaches in areas such as Tiruvanmayur, Ennore, Neelankarai, Foreshore Estate, Royapuram, and Santhome.

While one can happily watch the waves, the beaches in Chennai are also a small potpourri of eateries. You can munch on hot chilli bajjis, tasty bondas, or healthy sundals (boiled groundnuts seasoned with raw mangos, onions, and salt). You can also have your future predicted by charming lady astrologers who read your palm or by parrots (kili josiyum) too!

# 2 The Theosophical Society

Founded by Annie Besant, The Theosophical Society in Adyar is a must visit for anyone travelling to Chennai. Nestled in greenery by the banks of the Cooum River, The Theosophical Society in Adyar is the headquarters of the International Theosophical Society. You can take a tour of The Theosophical Society by walking around the lush surroundings, interacting with the members in the society, and visiting the library to read more. It is a historic place which provides a lot of food for thought and serenity for the soul!

# 3 Temples, Churches, and Mosques

Chennai has many historic places of worship which attract travellers, irrespective of if they want to pray or not. The Kapaleeshwar Temple in Mylapore, The Parthasarathy Swami Temple in Triplicane, Santhome Church in Santhome, and The Thousand Lights Mosque on Mount Road are just a few of the heritage sites which add colour to Chennai’s geography.

# 4 Amusement Parks

Chennai also houses many theme parks and amusement parks like VGP Golden Beach Resort, MGM Dizzee World and Kishkinta. These places have a plethora of adrenaline pumping rides and are a big hit, especially with children. These amusement parks have green locales and are built on a vast area, hence making them a great spot to spend the entire day.

# 5 Bird Watching at Vedantangal and Pallikaranai Marshland

Vedantangal and Pallikaranai Marshlands are home to many migratory birds. You can spend time in these places in the company of exotic birds which make Chennai their abode during early summer. Siberian Cranes are the most popularly spotted birds. Grab those binoculars and do some bird watching!

# 6 Popular places of interest: Egmore Musuem, Guindy Park, and Fort St.George

The Egmore Museum, Guindy Park, and Fort St.George are three popular tourist spots which give a glimpse of the history of the city. Educative and entertaining, a visit to these places is bound to enthral every kind of traveller!

Not to forget you can watch a movie in Satyam Cinemas or catch an IPL( or a cricket match) in the MA Chidambaram stadium! Chennai, formerly (and fondly) called as Madras, is a confluence of tradition and modernity. No matter what kind of a tourist you are, you will be able to find enjoyable things to do in this warm tropical city. Pack your bags and head here!

Pearlsdentistry

09/Mar/2017

You and your family need dental care: at least once in 6 months. Many people shy away from regular visits to their dentists because of a plethora of reasons. Two main reasons why people refrain from periodic dental check-ups are the humongous cost of the treatments and the lack of finding a suitably efficient dentist with whom the patient is comfortable with.

Chennai, as a city, offers the ideal panacea for these two causes which prevent people for undertaking good care of their teeth. The premise of this note is to provide you with three solid and attractive reasons on why you should be visiting Chennai for all your dental treatments.

# Reason 1: Low Costs of Treatment:

Dental treatments in Chennai cost a fraction of what they cost elsewhere in the world. A single tooth implant which would cost at least 1000 USD in other Asian countries and above 2000 USD in the West, will cost only around 600 USD in Chennai. Whether it is doing a root canal or removing a wisdom tooth, Chennai is way more affordable than any other place. If you are residing in the USA or any of the European nations, you will find that dental treatment costs are significantly lesser in Chennai, and by significant we are talking of fractions like 1/10, 1/9 etc.

# Reason 2: Internationally Trained and Educated Dental Surgeons:

Chennai is home to many internationally educated and recognized dental surgeons. All these dental surgeons have studied abroad, undergone trainings and certifications to be abreast with the latest in the dental world, and have now set up their clinics and hospitals in Chennai. Remember these surgeons originally hail from India and have gotten back to their roots. Talk about the best of both the worlds: a confluence of Eastern empathy with Western efficiency. Such dental surgeons located in Chennai not only make you and your family feel comfortable, but are also well-versed with the latest in technology and hence render a world class treatment at purse-friendly rates.

# Reason 3: State of the Art Infrastructure:

Chennai plays home to many an internationally acclaimed dental surgeon and their hospitals or clinics. This has also translated into the ready availability of all the world class equipments and devices within the precincts of these clinics and hospitals. The dental surgeons and doctors are not only abreast with the latest news in the dental world, but also have ready access to the best cutting edge technology tools. Suffice to say the dental treatment provided is amongst the best in the world.

Summing up…

Apart from these three very pertinent reasons which make the case for opting for Chennai as THE place to undergo dental treatments, there are some more reasons which act in favour of Chennai. Some of these include the lower costs of living, the presence of a good network of public and private transport system(well, the recently launched Metro is there too… 🙂 ) , and the general English fluency of the local populace.

You may say that you will be spending money on your tickets to get to Chennai, but we assure you that you will still be saving on costs! Furthermore, you can also use the savings to give yourself a holiday. Chennai is city which offers many multifarious sources of entertainment, learning, and unwinding to every kind of traveler. Read through the rest of blogs to know what you can do in Chennai. No matter how many times you visit the city, you will always have a bundle of fresh memories to create!

In our next blog we will let you know the places you can visit in and around Chennai. Stay tuned and have a great oral health!

Have any questions or clarifications on taking your dental treatment in Chennai? Leave us a comment!

Stress and oral health – Part 2

Stress and oral health – Part 1

Frequent brushing!

Choosing the right toothpaste

How to choose a dentist?

Places to visit in Chennai

Why is Chennai THE BEST for a dental treatment?

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