1.Dental Caries(Tooth Decay):
Tooth decay is the disease of the hard parts of the teeth, leading to disintegration.The only successful way to stop tooth decay is to cut down on the frequency of eating sugar.Adequate brushing alone will also not eliminate decay, but it does stop the plaque film from building up to a great thickness.
2.Plaque:The film of bacteria known as plaque forms very quickly on the tooth surfaces.Bacterial plaque is only one of the factors in the causation of dental caries.The areas of the teeth such as the pits and fissures in between the teeth where the brush cannot reach, are the places where plaque remains undisturbed despite frequent brushing.Flourides definitely helps to prevent tooth decay.Thus people who live in an area which has an optimal level of flouride in the water suffer much less from tooth decay.80%-90% of the toothpastes in the market today contain flouride.
3.Gum Inflammation:Gum Inflammation or Pyorrhoea is one of the commonest diseases in the world.The patient may sometimes notice bleeding of gums especially while brushing the teeth.Bad breath is most commonly caused by chronic inflammation of the gums.In this disease oral hygiene and interdental cleaning is the most important preventive measure.Smokers in general have a poorer oral hygiene as compared to nonsmokers.
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Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Diet And Teeth
1.Flourides:
Adequate intake of calcium, phosphorus, flouride and vitamins A, C, and D are essential.Most of these are present in adequate amounts in the normal balanced diet.Only Flourides tends to be deficient and needs to be suplemented.Teeth containing flouride are definitely more resistent to decay
2.Carbohydrates:
There is a definite relationship between caries(tooth decay) and the intake of refined carbohydrates like flour, sugar, and other carbohydrates which have been treated in order to make them whiter, less fibrous and tastier.Refined carbohydrates become sticky quickly and cling to the teeth for long periods.They are easily broken down to acids by the bacteria in the mouth, these acids are primarily responsible for tooth decay.The best would therefore be to stick to natural unprocessed foods-fats, cereals, meat, fish, eggs, vegetables, fruits and cheese.The sugar substitutes like saccharin also do not cause caries.
3.Other Foodstuffs:
Frequent consumption of acidic foodstuffs(like habitual drinking of carbonated drinks and excessive consumption of some fruit juices) is associated with erosions of the teeth.It is also suggested that one should end meals with fibrous foods such as carrots and other salads as fobrous foods might have a mild cleansing reaction as they remove food debris from the teeth.
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Adequate intake of calcium, phosphorus, flouride and vitamins A, C, and D are essential.Most of these are present in adequate amounts in the normal balanced diet.Only Flourides tends to be deficient and needs to be suplemented.Teeth containing flouride are definitely more resistent to decay
2.Carbohydrates:
There is a definite relationship between caries(tooth decay) and the intake of refined carbohydrates like flour, sugar, and other carbohydrates which have been treated in order to make them whiter, less fibrous and tastier.Refined carbohydrates become sticky quickly and cling to the teeth for long periods.They are easily broken down to acids by the bacteria in the mouth, these acids are primarily responsible for tooth decay.The best would therefore be to stick to natural unprocessed foods-fats, cereals, meat, fish, eggs, vegetables, fruits and cheese.The sugar substitutes like saccharin also do not cause caries.
3.Other Foodstuffs:
Frequent consumption of acidic foodstuffs(like habitual drinking of carbonated drinks and excessive consumption of some fruit juices) is associated with erosions of the teeth.It is also suggested that one should end meals with fibrous foods such as carrots and other salads as fobrous foods might have a mild cleansing reaction as they remove food debris from the teeth.
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Regular Cleaning Of Teeth
1.The Ideal Toothbrush:There are a multitude of different shapes and sizes of toothbrushes available.It is however, best to use a simply designed or slightly angulated tooth brush.A brush with a head approx 2.5com in length is ideal for use in an average adult.Nylon bristles are superior to natural bristles because they are more hygienic and are easier to maintain.Medium textured brushes are the best because they cause very little injury to the gums.
How Often Should You Replace Your Brush?
Generally, the bristles of the medium toothbrush splay in about4-6 weeks.This is when the brush needs to be replaced.
How Frequently Should You Brush Your Teeth?
Ideally teeth should be brushed immediately after each meal.The brushing before going to bed is important because during sleep the flow of saliva is reduced and any food that is retained in the mouth during the night causes the most damage.
2.The Toothpaste:Toothpastes are supplementary to the brush-they aid in the cleaning and polishing of accessible surfaces of the teeth.The main constituents of toothpastes are mild abrasives, soaps, detergents, colouring agents and flavouring agents.Additional substances such as ammonium salts, chlorophyll, flourides, and clove have been used with varying degrees of success.The value of flouridated toothpastes in preventing caries is now definite.If a commercial paste is not available, salt and bicarb of soda are very cheap and effective substitutes.It is, however a bad practice to rub lime juice on the teeth as it can damage the teeth.
3.Dental Floss:The toothbrush cannot adequately clean in between the teeth.Dental floss is the most efficient method to clean this area.Waxed and unwaxed floss is available.The floss is wrapped around two fingers and gently pulled backwards and forwards between the teeth, taking care to avoid damage to the gums.It is best to learn this technique from your dentist.
4.Dentist And Oral Hygiene:For good teeth regular visit to the dentist is necessary.His role is to ensure the complete elimination of decay and stagnation.This is done by scaling, polishing and filling the teeth, and carrying out corrective techniques as and when necessary.This ensures that there is no region in the mouth where food can lodge and cause problems.Further he would advise you on the techniques of oral hygiene.A visit once in 6 months is usually adequate.
Credit : www.101lifestyle.com
How Often Should You Replace Your Brush?
Generally, the bristles of the medium toothbrush splay in about4-6 weeks.This is when the brush needs to be replaced.
How Frequently Should You Brush Your Teeth?
Ideally teeth should be brushed immediately after each meal.The brushing before going to bed is important because during sleep the flow of saliva is reduced and any food that is retained in the mouth during the night causes the most damage.
2.The Toothpaste:Toothpastes are supplementary to the brush-they aid in the cleaning and polishing of accessible surfaces of the teeth.The main constituents of toothpastes are mild abrasives, soaps, detergents, colouring agents and flavouring agents.Additional substances such as ammonium salts, chlorophyll, flourides, and clove have been used with varying degrees of success.The value of flouridated toothpastes in preventing caries is now definite.If a commercial paste is not available, salt and bicarb of soda are very cheap and effective substitutes.It is, however a bad practice to rub lime juice on the teeth as it can damage the teeth.
3.Dental Floss:The toothbrush cannot adequately clean in between the teeth.Dental floss is the most efficient method to clean this area.Waxed and unwaxed floss is available.The floss is wrapped around two fingers and gently pulled backwards and forwards between the teeth, taking care to avoid damage to the gums.It is best to learn this technique from your dentist.
4.Dentist And Oral Hygiene:For good teeth regular visit to the dentist is necessary.His role is to ensure the complete elimination of decay and stagnation.This is done by scaling, polishing and filling the teeth, and carrying out corrective techniques as and when necessary.This ensures that there is no region in the mouth where food can lodge and cause problems.Further he would advise you on the techniques of oral hygiene.A visit once in 6 months is usually adequate.
Credit : www.101lifestyle.com
Common Nail Problems
1.Brittle Nails:
Brittle nails and flaking of nails are very common due to excessive dryness of the nail plate.The nail plate is made up of dead keratin cells held together by a natural glue of fats and water.Any loss of fats and water causes the cells to separate and results in flaking and brittleness of the nails.
A.Many of our domestic chores remove the natural fats from the nails resulting in brittle nails, so do wear gloves.
B.Nail polish removers also have a dehydrating effect.If you have brittle nails avoid removing your nail polish too frequently.You can use a colourless polish or a base-coat or a top-coat, because then you can keep touching it up quite happily, without having to use the remover very frequently.
C.Regular massage around the nail-base with cream can have a good effect on brittle nails.
2.Hangnails:Hangnails are tears in the skin of the nailfolds and the cuticle.The cuticle and the nailfolds have a tendency to stick to the nail plate as it grows forward; the stretched cuticle may eventually tear.Sometimes the skin of the nailfolds also cracks, particularly if it is dry.Nervous nail biting habits, chewing nails, and picking the cuticle all encourage the developement of hangnails.
A.To avoid such conditions, keep the cuticles soft by massaging in creams and regularly loosening it from the nail-plate.
B.Clip off existing hangnails.
C.Avoid pulling off slivers as this can be very painful and can even cause infection of the nailfolds.
3.In-Growing Toe-Nails:If the toenail is not cut properly, it penetrates into the nail-fold as it grows, causing redness, swelling and pain.
A.Don't cut them too short;
B.Don't ever cut down the side of the nail;
C.Always follow the shape of the toe;
D.Once the pain has started, try to push the nail-fold away from the sharp edge of the skin.
4.Fungal Infections Of The Nail:When fungus infects the nails, they become thickened, broken and discoloured.Fungal infection can be easily treated- griseofulvin is given for milder infection and ketoconazole for more severe types-but let your doctor treat you.
Credit : www.101lifestyle.com
Brittle nails and flaking of nails are very common due to excessive dryness of the nail plate.The nail plate is made up of dead keratin cells held together by a natural glue of fats and water.Any loss of fats and water causes the cells to separate and results in flaking and brittleness of the nails.
A.Many of our domestic chores remove the natural fats from the nails resulting in brittle nails, so do wear gloves.
B.Nail polish removers also have a dehydrating effect.If you have brittle nails avoid removing your nail polish too frequently.You can use a colourless polish or a base-coat or a top-coat, because then you can keep touching it up quite happily, without having to use the remover very frequently.
C.Regular massage around the nail-base with cream can have a good effect on brittle nails.
2.Hangnails:Hangnails are tears in the skin of the nailfolds and the cuticle.The cuticle and the nailfolds have a tendency to stick to the nail plate as it grows forward; the stretched cuticle may eventually tear.Sometimes the skin of the nailfolds also cracks, particularly if it is dry.Nervous nail biting habits, chewing nails, and picking the cuticle all encourage the developement of hangnails.
A.To avoid such conditions, keep the cuticles soft by massaging in creams and regularly loosening it from the nail-plate.
B.Clip off existing hangnails.
C.Avoid pulling off slivers as this can be very painful and can even cause infection of the nailfolds.
3.In-Growing Toe-Nails:If the toenail is not cut properly, it penetrates into the nail-fold as it grows, causing redness, swelling and pain.
A.Don't cut them too short;
B.Don't ever cut down the side of the nail;
C.Always follow the shape of the toe;
D.Once the pain has started, try to push the nail-fold away from the sharp edge of the skin.
4.Fungal Infections Of The Nail:When fungus infects the nails, they become thickened, broken and discoloured.Fungal infection can be easily treated- griseofulvin is given for milder infection and ketoconazole for more severe types-but let your doctor treat you.
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Cosmetics To Disguise Nail Defects
If your nails are deformed, the first thing to do is to visit your dermatologist-a number of nail problems are temporary and improve as the new nail appears and only a very few are permanent.The appearance of your nails can also be improved considerably by the use of cosmetics-for instance, ordinary nail enamel can camouflage a number of nail defects.A broken or split nail can be mended using what are called nail-mending fluids.To do this, a piece of thin tissue is placed over the crack or break in the nail.The nail mending fluid is thenm applied.When the product dries and sets, the nail can be painted with the nail enamel.
Credit : www.101lifestyle.com
Credit : www.101lifestyle.com
Nail Damage And Prevention
1.The simplest way to avoid nail damage is to wear gloves.
2.If you can't wear gloves, you could at least use a long handled mop-this allows you to keep your hands off water and your nails will definitely benefit.
3.If you do get your hands wet, remember to rinse them well and dry them carefully after the work is done.
4.Then apply ample amounts of a moisturising cream.
5.You must also take certain other precautions:
A.Use a pencil to operate the dial;
B.Use a tin-opener to open tins;
C.Use gardening gloves;
D.Avoid contact with strong chemicals;
E.Use moisturisers liberally.
6.Wear Polish-It works as a barrier for your nails and use acetone-free nail polish remover.
7.File in one direction only-Filing back and forth is bad because this frays and weakens the nails.File your nails in one direction only for the best results.
8.Keep your nails short.
9.Manicure after a bath.It is best to do your manicure after a bath because your nails are soft.
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2.If you can't wear gloves, you could at least use a long handled mop-this allows you to keep your hands off water and your nails will definitely benefit.
3.If you do get your hands wet, remember to rinse them well and dry them carefully after the work is done.
4.Then apply ample amounts of a moisturising cream.
5.You must also take certain other precautions:
A.Use a pencil to operate the dial;
B.Use a tin-opener to open tins;
C.Use gardening gloves;
D.Avoid contact with strong chemicals;
E.Use moisturisers liberally.
6.Wear Polish-It works as a barrier for your nails and use acetone-free nail polish remover.
7.File in one direction only-Filing back and forth is bad because this frays and weakens the nails.File your nails in one direction only for the best results.
8.Keep your nails short.
9.Manicure after a bath.It is best to do your manicure after a bath because your nails are soft.
Credit : www.101lifestyle.com
Regular Care Of Hair
Taking care of hair is in fact much the same as taking care of skin.An effective hair care discipline involves cleansing, toning and conditioning routines carried out with religious regularity.
1.Care Of Oily Hair And Scalp Condition:
The principle of care for oily hair and scalp condition is the same as used for oily skin condition.The routine aims at removing the excess oil and to exfoliate skin cells which clogs up and suffocate the hair follicles in our scalp.The emphasis is laid on cleansing and toning routines.Since the hair has to be washed as frequently as it gets dirty and oily, a natural shampoo on a formulation of herbs such as amla, shikakai, trijla is ideal.Massaging hair and scalp is important for the well being as well as good growth of the hair.For dry hair, scalp massaging with oil is recommended.For oily hair massaging with toning lotion is suitable.
Home-made Cosmetics For Oily Hair:
A.Take some dry soap nuts(reetha) and soak them in water overnight.Mash them in the morning and strain the soapy solution.Add a tsp of shikakai powder and wash your hair.
If you are unable to make the shampoo cleanser at home, use this infusion recipe.Prepare it and mix in the shampoo you use.
B.To make the infusion, boil two handful of mint leaves in one and a half glass of water for 20 minutes.Strain the solution and mix in a 300ml bottle of shampoo.
Toning Lotion For Oily Hair:
Mix a tbsp of Malt Vinegar in a glass of water.Add a pinch of salt in it.Use 2 tbsps of it on your scalp and massage it with your finger tips twice a week.Leave the lotion on for one hour.Rinse with cool water, brush and set your hair.
2.Care For Dry Hair:
Dry hair tends to be thin and rough.It is susceptible to tangles, damage, breakage and split ends.The primary aim is to replenish the oil and the moisture in the hair.
Home-made Cosmetic Care For Dry Hair:
Below are given few natural recipes that are time-tested.
The Gentle Cleanser:
Beat an egg in a cup of the skimmed milk.When the foam becomes consistent, rub it into the scalp.Leave it on for 5 minutes.Rinse the hair thoroughly with water.Carry out this routine twice a week.
The Protein Conditioner:
Beat one tbsp of castor oil, one tbsp of glycerine, one tbsp of cider vinegar and a tsp of mild herbal shampoo.Apply it on scalp and leave it on for 20 minutes.Rinse with clear water.
A Special Massage Oil Toner
Buy a bottle of castor oil or coconut oil.Add a tsp of lavender essential oil in it.Heat a little and massage it gently on your scalp at night.Rinse or shampoo it out in the morning.Follow this routine at least twice a week.
Credit : www.101lifestyle.com
1.Care Of Oily Hair And Scalp Condition:
The principle of care for oily hair and scalp condition is the same as used for oily skin condition.The routine aims at removing the excess oil and to exfoliate skin cells which clogs up and suffocate the hair follicles in our scalp.The emphasis is laid on cleansing and toning routines.Since the hair has to be washed as frequently as it gets dirty and oily, a natural shampoo on a formulation of herbs such as amla, shikakai, trijla is ideal.Massaging hair and scalp is important for the well being as well as good growth of the hair.For dry hair, scalp massaging with oil is recommended.For oily hair massaging with toning lotion is suitable.
Home-made Cosmetics For Oily Hair:
A.Take some dry soap nuts(reetha) and soak them in water overnight.Mash them in the morning and strain the soapy solution.Add a tsp of shikakai powder and wash your hair.
If you are unable to make the shampoo cleanser at home, use this infusion recipe.Prepare it and mix in the shampoo you use.
B.To make the infusion, boil two handful of mint leaves in one and a half glass of water for 20 minutes.Strain the solution and mix in a 300ml bottle of shampoo.
Toning Lotion For Oily Hair:
Mix a tbsp of Malt Vinegar in a glass of water.Add a pinch of salt in it.Use 2 tbsps of it on your scalp and massage it with your finger tips twice a week.Leave the lotion on for one hour.Rinse with cool water, brush and set your hair.
2.Care For Dry Hair:
Dry hair tends to be thin and rough.It is susceptible to tangles, damage, breakage and split ends.The primary aim is to replenish the oil and the moisture in the hair.
Home-made Cosmetic Care For Dry Hair:
Below are given few natural recipes that are time-tested.
The Gentle Cleanser:
Beat an egg in a cup of the skimmed milk.When the foam becomes consistent, rub it into the scalp.Leave it on for 5 minutes.Rinse the hair thoroughly with water.Carry out this routine twice a week.
The Protein Conditioner:
Beat one tbsp of castor oil, one tbsp of glycerine, one tbsp of cider vinegar and a tsp of mild herbal shampoo.Apply it on scalp and leave it on for 20 minutes.Rinse with clear water.
A Special Massage Oil Toner
Buy a bottle of castor oil or coconut oil.Add a tsp of lavender essential oil in it.Heat a little and massage it gently on your scalp at night.Rinse or shampoo it out in the morning.Follow this routine at least twice a week.
Credit : www.101lifestyle.com
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