Coconut Oil for Toothpaste – Is it the Right Choice

TariqDrabu, a leading dentist and specialistic oral surgeon has advised that there has been a lot of hype about coconut oil recently. Coconut oil has become a favoured choice with people for all types of applications from cooking to using it as a hair conditioner. Coconut oil is brimming with healthy goodness, which is also effective for your teeth. If you are consideration using an organic toothpaste and it contains coconut oil, then here are a few things you need to know.

No chemicals 

 

Coconutoil is completely natural and Tariq Drabu advised that the one benefit is that it does not contain dangerous chemicals which can harm your teeth. He wants patients to note that the tooth is made up of various sections with the hard enamel, which is the hardest substance in the body, being the outer coating which protects the sensitive dentine and pulp found inside the tooth. Chemicals are abrasive and can start to harm the enamel, making it thinner and eventually making it easier for dangerous bacteria to make their way into the tooth and cause irreparable damage.

Fights cavities 

 

Coconut oil has proven to be effective in fighting cavities. When brushing your teeth the focus is to remove sugars, plaque, bacteria and more. You want your teeth to be clean when you have finished your two minutes of brushing. Coconut oil with all its' healthy benefits is effective in fighting cavities so if you are looking at organic toothpaste, it's worthwhile to ensure it contains this important ingredient.

 

Affordable

 

You will be surprised at how affordable coconut oil really is. Most people are under the impression that something with so many health benefits is going to break the bank but this is not the choice. TariqDrabu does recommend patients speak to their dental professional before moving away from their regular toothpaste, bearing in mind that coconut oil does not contain fluoride which is essential in protecting the hard enamel to reduce the risk of tooth decay.

 

Brushing technique

Tariq Drabu also recommends that patients ensure that they are brushing properly and are taking the flu two minutes twice daily to brush. Each tooth must be focused on individually and brushed inside and out holding the brush at a forty five degree angle to ensure that the gums also enjoy a soft brushing.

Toothpaste and Mouthwash – What you Need to Know

Tariq Drabu is the owner of the successful Langley Dental Practice in Middleton and a leading dentist and specialistic oral surgeon. He advises that many people not only don't know how to brush and use mouthwash properly, but they don't know what the label says, they don't understand the products found in the products.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

This is what makes your toothpaste foam when brushing, which gives you the impression the toothpaste is working. What some people may experience is some irritation from the foam. This is something that should be discussed with your dentist so that they can recommend an alternative for you that can reduce the irritation.

Alcohol

Yes, Tariq Drabu has advised that many toothpastes and mouthwashes contain alcohol. This is what gives that slight burning sensation, again making you think the toothpaste or mouthwash is working. The problem with alcohol is that it destroys good bacteria in the mouth.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is effective in cleaning teeth and gums. If your toothpaste has this on the label then there is nothing to be concerned about. TariqDrabu has mentioned that it's not advisable to get rid of your regular toothpaste and use baking soda only, you need all the essential ingredients to kill germs, remove plaque and freshen breath.

Read the label

Tariq Drabu urges patients to read the label on their toothpaste and mouthwash before making a purchase. Identify the ingredients and understand what they are. If in doubt, your dental professional can make recommendations and help you choose the best products to improve your oral health moving forward.

Brushing

He also recommends that patients learn to brush effectively. Your teeth should be brushed twice a day with a good toothpaste. This means putting some toothpaste on the brush and then concentrating on each individual tooth, both inside and out to ensure you remove all the plaque and any food debris, not to mention the dangerous bacteria lurking in your mouth. Tariq Drabu also wants to ensure patients understand that using a toothbrush with worn or frayed bristles will not be effective and will simply move the bacteria around the mouth rather than removing it.

Using mouthwash

Many people don't read the instructions on the mouthwash bottle and simply rinse the liquid around their mouth and believe it has worked. Tariq Drabu mentioned that every mouth wash is different, so read the label to ensure you are using it properly.

Dental Veneers – How Can They Benefit You?

Tariq Drabu, the owner of the successful Langley Dental Practice, is a leading dentist and specialist oral surgeon. He has advised that dental veneers are effective options for those who are suffering with a number of cosmetic dental imperfections that want to improve their smile appearance and boost their confidence.

What Can Dental Veneers Be Used for?

The first question asked by patients is why should they choose dental veneers. Tariq Drabu advised that they use dental veneers for a number of different scenarios to help patients improve their smile and confidence in the long run. The dental veneers can be used for:

• Misaligned teeth – teeth that are not one hundred percent uniform in the mouth.
• Chipped teeth – rather than extracting the tooth, the veneer can cover the chip and provide a natural finish.
• Gaps in the teeth – patients who have a gap in their front teeth may want to hide the gap, the veneer can provide this option.
• Discoloured teeth – those with badly stained teeth may choose veneers to hide the unwelcome stains.
• Lightening – veneers can also be used to lighten the tooth colour on a permanent basis.
  

What are Veneers?

Dr Tariq Drabu advised that anyone thinking of veneers need to know what these are, how they work along with the negative implications involved.

Tariq Drabu stated that a dental veneer is a porcelain shell which is wafer thin and used to cover the front of the tooth. The process is relatively simple, the veneers are made based on a mould of the patients mouth to ensure that they are correct and can be used on one or all of the teeth with ease and confidence.

He did advise that patients need to be aware that in order to fit the veneers, some of the hard enamel which coats the tooth needs to be removed. The enamel is the hardest substance in the body and protects the delicate dentine inside the tooth. Enamel does not regrow, which means once the process is started for veneers, you can never go back and have them removed. He wants patients to understand this, as this is the only negative implication and should the veneer break, it must be replaced.

Once some of the enamel has been removed the veneer is bonded into place on the front of the tooth to provide a beautiful smile.

Overcoming Dental Fear – What You Need to Know

Tariq Drabu has advised that he sees a high number of patients each year at the Langley Dental Practice that suffer from dental fear. He mentioned that dental fear is not a reason to avoid the dentist and his main concern is that patients that fear the dentist will only go to the dentist when they are in serious pain, by then the damage is done and it can work out more expensive to treat.

Worry = Fear

TariqDrabu advised that worry will result in fear. Worrying can be due to a bad experience with a dentist in the past, being claustrophobic or even being embarrassed about the state of their teeth. He also mentioned that some patients are scared of injections or they don't like the sounds of the drill that they need to use. There are no excuses to not visit the dentist and he advised that there are ways patients can reduce their stress, by simply letting the dental team know their fears in advance.

How to cope with dental fear

Tariq Drabu mentioned that the first thing patients who suffer from dental fear will want to do is find a compassionate practice. A dental practice that understands that there are people who fear the dentist and go out of their way to reduce this fear. Speaking to the receptionist and advising them of the fear is the first step, the receptionist should make them comfortable and help them make their appointment without any hassle, while ensuring the dental team are advised before the patient sits in the dental chair.

Another option is to tell the dentist as you walk into the surgery. Tariq Drabu advised that by knowing a patients fear, he is able to work with the patient, giving them the treatment they need at a pace that is comfortable for them. Ignoring the fear only makes matters worse. He also advises that patients that fear the dentist should bring a friend or loved one with them to sit with them while they wait. Ideally the friend or loved one should not suffer from dental fear, so they are able to keep the patient calm.

Tariq Drabu also advises that patients that suffer from dental fear should ask for breaks throughout their treatment. A minute or two can give them the time they need to breathe deeply and use their relaxation techniques. A final alternative that he can provide is sedation, so the patient is only aware of the treatment being completed by the time they come around.

How a Cosmetic Dentist Can Help you Improve Your Tooth Appearance

Tariq Drabu is a leading dentist and specialist oral surgeon, he is also the owner of the successful Langley Dental Practice in Middleton that offers cosmetic dentistry to patients on a daily basis. He advised that many patients aren't aware of how a cosmetic dentist can help them, help them improve their smile, boost their confidence and make them feel better about themselves in the long run.

Tooth Whitening

The first thing Tariq Drabu mentioned that is growing in popularity throughout the world is tooth whitening. He advised that he has more patients approaching him for this service as they want to showcase pearly whites like their favourite celebrities that they see on the television or in the movies. He mentioned that tooth whitening must be carried out by a professional dentist to reduce the risk of sensitivity, staining and problems in the long run.

Tariq Drabu mentioned that the Langley Dental Practice offers two options, the first is done in the dentist chair and the second is carried out at home using a specialised kit custom made for the patient.

Veneers

Dental veneers are a way to improve misalignments, cracks and chips on teeth. The veneers is a porcelain shell which is bonded to the front of the tooth. This can also be done in a lighter colour, so the patient is able to lighten their teeth at the same time. This process requires some of the enamel to be removed from the front of the tooth to make space for the veneer.

Implants

Tariq Drabu advised that dental implants are a way to replace missing teeth without having to remove them. The implant consists of a titanium screw which is placed into the jaw bone and topped with a false tooth, known as a cap. They are completely natural and comfortable and don't effect the patients speech or eating.

Braces

He also mentioned that as a cosmetic dentist he is able to advise and assist patients with clear plastic braces which are used to straighten teeth. Most people wear braces in their teens if they have skew teeth, but adults are also looking to improve their smiles. The clear braces are barely noticeable and don't affect confidence, while enabling the patient to have their teeth straightened effectively.

Bottled Water or Tap – What is Your Preference?

Tariq Drabu, the owner of the successful Langley Dental Practice has recently been discussing water options with his patients, to identify if they are drinking tap or bottled water and which one they prefer and why.

Tariq Drabu mentioned that water is imperative to good oral health and all patients should be sipping on plain water throughout the day to reduce the risk of dehydration. He stated that everyone sees that they should be drinking plenty of water each day, but often believe it to be hype. The fact of the matter is, if you love your teeth and you want to preserve them for as long as possible, you will start drinking water.

Dehydration

Tariq Drabu advised that dehydration is a serious problem when it comes to oral health. We rely on our saliva, which is an alkaline solution, to wash the mouth. When you get thirsty, your saliva dries up,

leaving your teeth exposed to harmful sugars, acids and bacteria. Drinking water throughout the day reduces the risk of dehydration, ensuring excellent saliva production to protect your teeth moving forward.

Clean mouth

Of course with each sip of water you take, you can swirl it around your mouth, which can help to keep your teeth clean. Rinsing with water helps to remove food particles which may have stuck to the teeth, thereby protecting the tooth and reducing the risk of tooth issues later on.

Replace sugar drinks

Tariq Drabu advised that there has been so much discussion regarding sugared drinks over the past few years. Sugar is one of the most dangerous things when it comes to oral health and is one of the leading causes for tooth decay in children nationwide. Replacing sugared drinks with water can only improve your overall oral health.

He also wanted to advise parents that water is completely safe for children. Children do not need fizzy drinks or fruit juices, in fact he advised what many parents don't realise is that fruit juices are also brimming with sugars which could have a negative impact on oral health in the long run.

So what is your preference?

Tariq Drabu advised that the majority of people prefer bottled water because it is filtered mineral water and doesn't have a taste but what he wants patients to understand is that most areas of the United Kingdom do not have fluoridated water, which is protective for the teeth. So when you next grab a glass for water, consider the tap water before bottled water, even if bottled is your preference.

What Flossing Option is Right for You?

So many people skip the important oral health routine of flossing. Dental floss isn't something you should miss out on. Everyone should be flossing at least once a day, according to Tariq Drabu, a leading dentist and specialist oral surgeon.

TariqDrabu owns the successful Langley Dental Practice in Middleton in the United Kingdom where he often discusses the importance of flossing with his patients. He advised that many patients will brush their teeth, but they don't floss. When they visit their dentist with tooth pain, they soon learn how flossing can help improve their oral health in the long run.

Dental floss enables you to get into the hard to reach places between the teeth that is missed by basic brushing. Tooth brushing cannot get in between the teeth, which is also prone to plaque, tartar, bacteria and food debris. Flossing at least once a day cleans between the teeth reducing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.

Traditional Floss

Traditional floss is dental floss that has been used for years. It comes in a roll and there are flavoured options, if you want something different. To use you pull a long piece of floss, tearing it off using the cutter provided. Wrap the floss around your forefinger on one hand and the other side to the other hand and then gently wiggle the floss between each tooth. Concentrate on the inside of the tooth and gently along the gum line. Use a clean piece of floss for between each tooth to reduce the risk of spreading any infections you may have.

Floss Wands / Sticks

Floss sticks or wands are growing in popularity according to Tariq Drabu. For some people these are much easier to use and have a handle with the floss at the top, ideal for those with fine motor skill issues. You use the floss want the same as dental floss, working it between the teeth and along the gum line.

Prevention

Tariq Drabu advised that prevention is always better than cure when it comes to your teeth and you want to preserve your teeth for as long as possible. He prefers if his patients floss twice a day with brushing, but once a day is better than nothing. You can reduce your risk of gum disease and tooth decay by making sure you don't skip this important step of your oral health routine.

Tariq Drabu Advises Why Oral Health in Older Adults is So Important

Tariq Drabu is a leading dentist and specialist oral surgeon and the owner of the Langley Dental Practice in Middleton in the United Kingdom. He has advised that more focus is being placed on older adults oral health these days and wants patients to understand why a good oral health routine is so important in older years.

Higher risk

Older adults are at a higher risk of tooth decay, tooth loss, gum disease and more. As we get older our hands don't work as well, making it harder to hold a toothbrush or stand to brush our teeth for a full two or three minutes. Many patients in their older years find that they start suffering with tooth sensitivity and unwelcome gum disease, which can be detrimental to their oral health in the long run.

Routine dental check-ups

A very high percentage of older adults have not seen a dentist in the past year. This is something that cannot be cancelled or postponed. Tariq Drabu advised that there is a reason why dentists get their patients to come back for a follow up or check-up. The routine appointment is an opportunity for the dentist to identify if there are any underlying problems or dental issues that are just starting, this helps them put an effective treatment in place without delay, reducing the risk of the issue getting any worse, which could cost the patient more in the long run.

Relying on carers

Tariq Drabu stated that a large percentage of older adults in the United Kingdom rely on their carers to provide them with the oral care that they need. There has been a lot of focus on this of late and a guide book has been made available for carers on how to effectively care for their seniors teeth as part of their personal care plan.

Good routines

It is important, according to Tariq Drabu, that children and adults get into the habit of following a good oral health routine which can enable them to form a habit. This habit can be followed well into their senior years.

A good oral health routine should be:

1. Brush teeth twice daily. Once before bed and once in the morning.
2. Brush for a full two to three minutes focusing on each individual tooth.
3. Use a fluoride based toothpaste.
4. Change your toothbrush every three months or earlier if brush becomes frayed.
5. Floss daily
6. Attend routine dental check-ups.

Dental Crowns – What You Need to Know

Tariq Drabu is a leading dentist and specialist oral surgeon who works with private and NHS patients in Manchester in the United Kingdom. He is the owner of the successful Langley Dental Practice in Middleton and provides patients with dental crowns to preserve their natural teeth and help them improve their oral appearance.

What are crowns used for?

Tariq Drabu advises that dental crowns are used as a restorative procedure and is also effective to restore bone tissue. Instead of extracting a tooth, which could possibly be saved, the crown is placed over the tooth. When a tooth is extracted the bone tissue starts to deteriorate from the minute the tooth is removed, which can lead to other complications over time.

Dental crowns are used to correct flaws in a tooth, such as chips, breaks and cracks. It is also used to help preserve any damaged tooth and ensure that the patient keeps their adult or permanent teeth for as long as possible.

Technology has advanced so much over the years and Tariq Drabu mentioned that dental crowns are made to blend in naturally with surrounding teeth, so they look natural and the only person that knows their tooth is covered will be the patient.

Dental crowns are used to conceal implants. Implants are used when a tooth or teeth have been extracted. It comprises of a titanium screw which is put in place into the jaw bone and over time the bone fuses with the screw, which preserves the bone tissue. They are also used to change the shape of a tooth, when there is flaws or misalignment that the patient wants corrected in an affordable way.

In addition to this, Tariq Drabu also mentioned that dental crowns can hide discolouration, they can also help restore, protect and support a permanent tooth.

When to choose a dental crown

Tariq Drabu advises that tooth loss in adults is not a normal occurrence and if you are facing a tooth extraction it is advisable to see if a dental crown cannot help you preserve your own tooth.

Having teeth extracted can lead to numerous problems from bone tissue degradation to sunken cheeks, which is often seen in patients who have numerous teeth removed on one or both sides of their mouths.

To restore, protect and support the natural tooth, dental crowns are an effective and efficient solution for patients to consider.

Tooth Loss in Adults is Not Normal

Tariq Drabu, a leading dentist and specialist oral surgeon, is the owner of the successful Langley Dental Practice in Middleton in the United Kingdom. He is concerned at the number of adults who believe that tooth loss is completely normal once they reach their adult years. He advises that the only time tooth loss is normal is when children's baby or milk teeth fall out to make way for their permanent teeth.

Once that permanent tooth comes through, it is for life and it's up to you to ensure you take care of your teeth and preserve them for as long as possible.

What causes tooth loss in adults?

TariqDrabu advises that the most common cause of tooth loss in adults is poor oral hygiene. By not taking care of your teeth by brushing them twice daily for two minutes each brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once a day, the tooth is prone to cavities and decay, which results in tooth loss as the tooth cannot be saved.

Tariq Drabu reminds patients that food particles get caught between the teeth and plaque builds up to become hard tartar, which is sticky and attracts and catches dangerous bacteria which eats away at the hard tooth enamel which covers the tooth. Enamel does not regenerate, which means once damaged, the only repair is with the help of a dental professional.

Another cause of tooth loss in adults is poor diet. Eating sugared foods and drinks, alcohol, coffee and smoking are all associated with poor oral health and decay.

Then there is the adults that avoid the dentist. He mentioned that routine dental appointments are so the dentist can check the mouth, gums and teeth looking for any potential problems and catching them early, which could save the tooth and save the patient money in the long run.

Finally, a rare cause of tooth loss in adults, which cannot be helped is an accident. Taking a blow to the mouth which results in the tooth falling out.

How to prevent tooth loss in adults

Tariq Drabu advises that there are three rules patients should be following to preserve their permanent teeth for as long as possible. The first is brushing twice daily, then flossing at least once a day, though twice a day is preferable and finally, do not avoid the dentist they are here to assist you in enjoying good oral health moving forward.

What is the Cost of You Not Replacing a Missing Tooth?

There are thousands of patients around the United Kingdom who have one or more missing teeth. This is not uncommon, according to Tariq Drabu, the owner of the Langley Dental Practice, in fact most patients don't realise that a missing tooth or a few teeth can have a negative impact on your oral health and your personal experiences.

Tariq Drabu advised that there are numerous reasons why a patient should always consider having their missing tooth replaced if possible. Ideally it won't come to the tooth having to be extracted and possibly the dentist will be able to preserve the tooth for that bit longer. But in the event that you do have to have a tooth extracted, do you know what the cost is?

Confidence

TariqDrabu advised that one of the costs of not replacing a missing tooth is a lack in confidence. Many patients start feeling self-conscious, especially when they have a front tooth missing. This lack of confidence can affect the patient in their business and private life.

Smiles

While a patient may have smiled, showing all their teeth and feeling good about themselves, with a noticeable tooth removed, the same patient can stop showing their teeth when they smile, some even cover their mouths because they are aware that their missing tooth is noticeable.

Bone loss

In addition to personal experiences, Tariq Drabu advised that there are also medical reasons why a patient will want to consider replacing their missing tooth. Bone loss is one of the reasons why a patient should always try and see what alternatives there are rather than leaving them with an open gap. The bone loss can result in sunken cheeks after a while and can make the nearby teeth become unstable.

Speech

When a patient has a front tooth missing, there speech is affected. This is also not uncommon, according to Tariq Drabu where patients will suddenly talking with a slight lisp.

Treatment

Tariq Drabu advised that patients should discuss the options with their dentist before making the final decision to extract the tooth. Many patients are in pain and just want the tooth removed to ease the pain, but there are often alternatives for the patient where the tooth could possible be preserved.

The other option is a dental implant, which is a titanium screw with a crown (false tooth) on top. Over time the bone fuses with the screw to reduce the risk of bone loss.