#Dentist in Mount Lofty

[northpointdentalcentres]

How to Maintain Your Smile: Dental Care Tips from Toowoomba Experts

A captivating smile is a universal language that radiates confidence and positivity. Maintaining that bright smile requires diligent dental care and guidance from experts. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into practical dental care tips offered by Toowoomba experts – Dentist Toowoomba, Dental Clinic, and Root Canal dentist – to help you achieve and sustain a captivating smile.

How to Maintain Your Smile: Dental Care Tips from Toowoomba Experts

Caring for your smile involves more than just brushing and flossing. Toowoomba's dental professionals emphasize holistic oral health practices that contribute to your overall well-being. Let's explore their advice on maintaining a vibrant smile:

Regular Dental Checkups for a Confident Smile

Visiting a reputable Dental Clinic in Toowoomba for regular check-up’s is paramount. These check-up’s not only ensure the health of your teeth and gums but also offer preventive care measures. Dentist experts recommend biannual check-up’s, enabling early detection and intervention for potential issues.

Embrace Consistent Oral Hygiene Habits

Root Canal dentist specialists stress the significance of consistent oral hygiene routines. Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily help prevent plaque buildup and maintain gum health.

Balanced Diet for Dental Wellness

A well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients benefits both your overall health and your smile. Dental Clinic professionals recommend consuming calcium-rich foods for strong teeth, vitamin C for healthy gums, and crunchy fruits and vegetables to naturally clean teeth.

Limit Sugary Treats for Optimal Oral Health

To maintain a captivating smile, limit your intake of sugary treats and beverages. Root Canal dentist experts caution that excess sugar can lead to tooth decay and other oral health issues. Opt for water or milk instead of sugary drinks.

Protect Your Teeth During Physical Activities

If you're engaged in sports or activities that pose a risk to your teeth, consider wearing a mouthguard. Dentist Toowoomba specialists advise using custom-fitted mouthguards to protect your teeth from potential injuries.

Say No to Tobacco Products

Both Dental Clinic and Root Canal dentist professionals agree: tobacco products are detrimental to your oral health. Smoking and using tobacco can lead to stained teeth, gum disease, and even oral cancer. Quitting these habits can significantly improve your smile's appearance and health.

Dental Care for Different Life Stages

Pediatric Dental Care: Setting the Foundation

Instilling proper oral hygiene habits in children is vital for their future oral health. Dentist experts suggest scheduling a child's first dental visit by their first birthday, promoting a positive association with dental care.

Teen Dental Care: Addressing Unique Needs

Teenagers face specific oral health challenges, including orthodontic treatment. Dental Clinic professionals recommend regular cleanings, addressing braces-related concerns, and discussing wisdom teeth development.

Adult Dental Care: Maintenance and Beyond

Maintaining your smile as an adult involves addressing lifestyle factors that can impact oral health. Root Canal Dentist specialists emphasize regular checkups, managing stress to prevent teeth grinding, and considering teeth whitening options for a confident smile.

Senior Dental Care: Aging Gracefully

As you age, dental care remains essential. Dentist experts suggest paying extra attention to gum health, considering dentures or implants if needed, and staying hydrated to prevent dry mouth

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can poor oral health affect my overall health?

A: Absolutely. Oral health is linked to various systemic conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes. Maintaining good oral hygiene can positively impact overall well-being.

Q: How often should I replace my toothbrush?

A: Dental Clinic professionals recommend changing your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed.

Q: Are natural teeth whitening remedies effective?

A: While some natural remedies can help remove surface stains, Dentist experts advise caution. Professional teeth whitening treatments provide safer and more predictable results.

Q: What should I do during a dental emergency?

A: If you experience a dental emergency, such as a knocked-out tooth, rinse the tooth gently, place it back in the socket if possible, and seek immediate dental care.

Q: How can I alleviate dental anxiety?

A: Root Canal dentist specialists suggest open communication with your dentist about your anxiety. Many dental practices offer techniques such as sedation to help anxious patients feel more comfortable.

Q: Is flossing really necessary?

A: Yes, flossing is essential. It reaches areas between teeth that a toothbrush can't, preventing plaque buildup and gum disease.

Conclusion

Maintaining your smile involves a combination of diligent oral care practices and expert guidance. By following the dental care tips provided by Toowoomba experts – Dentist Toowoomba, Dental Clinic, and Root Canal dentist – you can enjoy a captivating smile that exudes confidence and positivity. Remember, your oral health significantly contributes to your overall well-being, making it a worthwhile investment in yourself.

[genuine-history-blog]

Armenia - the oldest Christian nation in the world

HISTORICAL ARMENIA in Classical and Byzantine times covered a large area to the east of Asia Minor and to the south of the Caucasus range. To the south-east was the land of the Medes and Persians. The Black Sea lies north-west of Armenia, and the Caspian to the north-east. However, the Armenians have never enjoyed continuous access to these important seas.

The best known landmark of Armenia is Mount Ararat, on which according to the Book of Genesis Noah’s Ark alighted after its long voyage from Mesopotamia. Mount Ararat which the Armenians call ‘Masis’ is situated today a few miles inside the Turkish frontier, but is fully visible from many parts of Armenia. This fact helps to keep alive the feelings both of frustration and of national pride which are characteristic of Armenians everywhere.

The geographical name ‘Ararat’ is closely linked with that of Urartu, which is the name given by the Assyrians to the ancient kingdom which once existed on the territory of historical Armenia. This kingdom, originally a confederation of local tribes, flourished as a unified state from the ninth to the early sixth century 30; it constituted a formidable rival to Assyria for supremacy in the Near East.

The Urartian capital was the ancient city of Van, today in modem Turkey. Van is situated on the eastern shore of the large lake of that name. The plain of Van is very fertile, and this fertility was enhanced by magnificent aqueducts built by the ancient Urartians - some of the water channels remaining in use right up to modern times. Another Armenian granary is the broad Araxes valley, particularly in the vicinity of Erevan and near the ancient capital of Artashat. Some authors have even maintained that this region of Armenia was the original Garden of Eden.

Soon after 600 BC, Urartu was invaded by various warlike hordes, including the Scythians, the Medes (ancestors of the modem Kurds), and also a tribe known as the people of Hayasa. These Hayasa people came from central Anatolia, close to the old Hittite state. The Armenians call themselves ‘Hai-k’, and their country, Hayastan, and many modern scholars consider that this Hayasa element forms an important constituent in the makeup of the modern Armenian nation.

Less than a century after these invasions, we find the ethnic names ‘Armina’ and ‘Armenians’ or ‘Armenioi’ mentioned in Persian inscriptions and in Greek sources. Thus, the people of Armina were known to Great King Darius I Hystaspes of Iran (521 - 485 BC), who mentions them in an important royal inscription, and Herodotus, Father of History, was familiar with the Armenians.

The Armenian language is an independent, one-language subgroup within the Indo-European language family. However, the identification of ethnic origins with linguistic affinity is deceptive. It seems clear that the Armenians themselves, in the majority of cases, belong to an ancient population stratum of eastern Anatolia, akin to the ancient Hurrians and Urartians. We have only to look at ancient Hittite, Assyrian and Achaemenid sculptures to pick out the prototypes of the modern Armenians, praying, toiling, and bringing tribute to the Great Kings of the ancient world.

Up to the great dispersal between 1895 and 1915, Armenian life was generally marked by ethnic continuity and social conservatism. Considering the pressures which the Armenians have undergone over the centuries to become assimilated in various foreign environments, they have contrived to maintain a remarkable ethnic and cultural individuality, especially where they have been able to set up an offshoot of their ancient Apostolic Church. Some Armenian communities are in fact rather inbred, and many Armenians are still reluctant to tolerate intermarriage with non-Armenians, who are referred to rather contemptuously as ‘odars’ - an equivalent of the term ‘gentile’. Like the British in India under the Raj, Armenians have sometimes tended to create various taboos and erect invisible barriers to maintain their community ethos intact. This group solidarity has in turn helped to preserve over the centuries certain readily identifiable physical traits.

”The ‘Armenoid’ physical type is well known to anthropologists, and forms one of the three brunette subgroups of the broad-headed complex of white races This Armenoid type is quite conspicuous it has the skull abruptly flattened behind, while the head is characterized by a lofty vault, with what physical anthropologists call ‘outward-drooping orbits’. The hair is usually brown or black. The eyes are large, mostly hazel, brown or black in colour, often framed by bushy eyebrows. Occasionally one meets Armenians with lustrous blue eyes, which are very striking.

The Armenian physique is renowned for toughness and endurance. This befits the rugged terrain of most of the Armenian homeland. Although the Araxes valley and the Van region can be described as a land of milk and honey, more than half of historical Armenia consists of barren upland with a harsh climate. The landscape is cut up by enormous mountains, and prevailing weather conditions are more like those of the Scottish Highlands or the Rocky Mountains than those of most of the Fertile Crescent lands.

Nowadays, the Armenian mountaineers are athletic and relatively tall. However, the general type found in the older generations both in Armenia and the diaspora communities is rather short and compact. The nose is often prominent and bulbous or else aquilinc and high-bridged. The facial complexion is rather swarthy, and features are strongly marked. There is a tendency to chunky solidity in middle age. A bristling moustache, turned up at the ends, is often seen in the older generation of men.

Wherever fate may have led them, one is impressed by the Armenians’ intelligence and quick-wittedness. ‘Nothing escapes them,’ remarks that seasoned traveller, Sir Fitzroy Maclean. ‘They have read one’s thoughts almost before they have had time to take shape." Even in pagan times, two thousand years ago, Armenians were renowned as poets and musicians, as builders and sculptors, as orator: and philosophers, as generals and as hotel keepers.

In modern times, Armenians consistently display a high intelligence and are successful in a wide range of professional activities. They are renowned as scientists, mathematicians, doctors and dentists. They excel in the arts and in literature. Armenians are numbered among film directors, book illustrators, and among orchestral conductors and soloists. They are excellent cooks and famed for their hospitality. In spite of their tragic history, Armenians are noted for their sense of humour. They have also produced many outstanding administrators and military leaders.

A fine description of the manners and customs of ancient Armenia is provided by the Greek historian, philosopher and military adventurer Xenophon, who led his Ten Thousand followers through that country in the winter of 401-400 BC. After a gruelling march north wands through the wilds of Kurdistan, Xenophon’s men were happy to reach Armenia, west of Lake Van. The local Armenians offered the Greeks excellent wine, strong ale, lamb, kid, pork, veal and poultry. We learn that the Armenian aristocracy used beautiful drinking cups, and reclined on couches whose legs were cased in silver. The common people lived in houses partly tunnelled underground, both for security and to keep out the bitter winter cold. During this season, the family livestock was kept inside the houses, including goats, sheep, cattle and fowls together with their young. Such underground houses have continued to exist in Armenia and in Georgia right up to modern times.

After Alexander the Great overthrew the Persian Empire in 331 BC, the dynasty of the Orontids held sway in Armenia, until they were replaced by another ruling family, the Artaxiads, in 200 BC. In addition, there were smaller principalities and minor kingdoms in Western Armenia.

The most famous ruler of the Artaxiad dynasty was Tigrana the Great (95-55 BC), thanks to whom Armenia became, briefly, a world power. Tigranes built up an empire stretching from the Caspian Sea to the Mediterranean, and from the Pontic Alps near the Black Sea right down to northern Mesopotamia. He profited by the decay of the hybrid Greek and oriental Seleucid dynasty to take over Syria, which he ruled quite successfully for fourteen years, from 83 to 69 BC. Tigranes erected a magnificent new capital at Tigranokerta, close to present-day Farkin, in southern Turkey.

Emulating the conquerors of Assyrian times, Tigranes deported many thousands of Greeks, Jews and Syrians to populate his new capital. He grew arrogant and cruel as he got older: he used to humiliate vassal rulers by making them run along on foot beside his royal charger whenever he went out for ‘a ride. He was so bad-tempered and superstitious that he would kill any messenger who brought him bad news, so that nobody dared to tell him the truth. Seeing the Roman general Lucullus approaching with a well trained army of ten thousand men, Tigranes uttered the famous but ill-judged witticism: ‘If they are coming as ambassadors, they are too many; if as enemies, they are too few !’

The territory of Great Armenia much exceeded in size that of England and Wales combined it amounted to about 100,000 square miles. But much of Armenia has always been unfit for human settlement. In addition to the two great inland seas of Van and Sevan, there are mighty mountains and extinct volcanoes, some topped by eternal snow. Ravine: and canyons break up the landscape, and make comunication difficult. Earthquakes add to the hazards of life.

The average height of the Armenian plateau, often described as a ‘natural fortress’, is over 5,000 feet. Outside the Araxes valley and the plain of Van, the windswept uplands have a harsh climate, winter persisting for seven months of the year. The short, dry summer extends for little more than three months. A typical highland Armenian town, such as Gyumri, has an average winter temperature as low as 12° F, or minus 11 C.

Even more unfavourable to the development of Armenia as an independent country is the lack of convenient road and river transport, and of assured access to the sea. Armenia lies astride main invasion routes leading from Asia Minor into Iran, and from the Caucasian isthmus southwards into Mesopotamia. But the land itself is poor in trunk roads., Whereas three great river: the Tigris, the Euphrates and the Araxes -all have their source in Armenia, none of them is navigable for any but the smallest vessels while still flowing through Armenian territory.

Despite these natural handicaps, combined with remorseless Roman pressure, the Armenians survived remarkably well throughout the Classical period. They were helped by their strategic position and inaccessible strongholds, and also by support from the Parthians, the warlike ruling dynasty of Iran. In fact, the Roman emperor Nero invited the founder of the Armenian dynasty of the Arsacids, King Tiridates I, to come to Rome in AD 66, and solemnly crowned him in the Forum in spite of the fact that Tiridata was himself a scion of the ruling Parthian royal family. On his return to Armenia, Tiridates built a magnificent temple in the Classical style at his summer capital of Garni. Destroyed by an earthquake in 1679, this monument has recently been re-erected by the Armenian Academy of Sciences, under the direction of Dr A. Sahinian.

During the Classical era, the Armenians laid the foundations of their rich and splendid national literature. It is true that the distinctive Armenian alphabet was not invented until after the introduction of Christianity, but pagan Armenia was far from being illiterate. From Moses of Khorene, the national chronicler, we have the texts of ancient ballads and legends, which were earlier handed down by word of mouth. Official documents and inscriptions were written in Greek or else in Iranian using Aramaic characters an ancient form of the Semitic alphabet. King Artavazd II, son of Tigranes the Great, maintained a Greek theatre in his palace, and himself wrote dramas in Greek to be staged there. Roman legionaries brought Latin script with them, notably in the reign of Emperor Trajan, though this failed to take root among the local population.

A key event in early Armenian history was the conversion of the country to Christianity by St Gregory the Illuminator, a missionary from Parthia, during the reign of King Tiridates III. This event determined the entire future course of Armenian history. It occurred in or about the year 301, though according to hallowed legend Armenia is supposed to have been visited by the Apostles Bartholomew and Thaddeus much earlier, about twenty years after Christ’s crucifixion. Armenia is thus the oldest Christian nation in the world, if we except the now vanished Christian realm of King Abgar of Edessa.

[itsworn]

Starting Line: Fourth from Left After the Race. Legit

I’ll admit it, I watch YouTube drag-racing videos. In the garage, on the iPhone, at the dentist, and last year the kid’s Christmas pageant. The big antennae that is likely irradiating my neighborhood also brings me hours of this stuff, then cool kids like Kyle Loftis at 1320 Video does us all a solid by flying to Sweden to cover the Stockholm open so I can watch it at home. Whenever the office is lame all week, the Friday night crack is a Smart TV away.

With millions of internet views and subscribers for the taking, I’ve noticed there are now car guys popping up everywhere. They are trying hard, but they often reek of newness. Rather than turn this observation into hate, I can’t help but flashback to the days of drinking beer and racing dirt cars on warm Friday and Saturday nights at the local bullring in Phoenix when I was a newbie car guy.

Back then, it was alcohol-burning, iron-headed small-blocks on Camaro front subframes featured at locations like Manzanita and Canyon raceways. Manzy’s back straight was lined up against a wrecking yard, and if you got airborne and cleared the wall, your car disappeared in an explosion of metal debris. Complete Camaros were $200, so you ran them hard and rubbed your way to the front.

The daily worry list included beer, tires, and whether the track was dry-slick or sticky enough to clog just about everything on car and driver with gooey clay roost. The driver was Dave Kraft, an East Coast transplant with visions of NASCAR and some serious driving skills, a bulletproof work ethic, and plenty of willpower. The crew consisted of an assortment of characters that included myself and J.T. Batterson, a high-school gearhead friend who joined the adventure as we moved from our hometown to Phoenix to go to school and do some racing.

Manzy is long gone, and so are the cars, but we had laid the groundwork to become seasoned car guys, eventually leading me to HOT ROD, away, then back again, having launched its .com in 2000 then off to Car Craft for 10 fun years.

Today, even the boldest of young wrenches and internet trolls are a little nervous to disrespect HOT ROD and the legit car guys who started and run it. And while the new kids try to figure out what the swoops on the sides of a 1960 Corvette are called, I get to enjoy the energy and watch the world turn to LS Volvo swaps and Formula Drift. HOT ROD will always be calling; maybe someday one of these newbies will be up to the task.

Phillip

It’s funny what you get used to. When folks start wrenching, curiosity can beget self-doubt when it comes time to dive into a machine. After enough broken things and a few deadlines to fix them by, it’s not much different than pulling a dipstick—or, in this case, a valve on a “ran when pulled” long-block!

Jacob

It’s always amazing to see just how far technology has come in recent years with the materials and methods being used to build cars nowadays. In fact, I recently photographed a car with ¼-inch carbon-fiber plates mounting the engine and transmission to the chassis. How crazy is that?

Zach

Being intrigued by how your car works is a fundamental element of any project; you’ll stay motivated to keep wrenching and learning. That curiosity is an easily forgotten element of any car build and has a serious impact on your ability to retain general automotive knowledge and gain skills. Don’t forget to love your project!

Fourth from left after the race. Legit.

The post Starting Line: Fourth from Left After the Race. Legit appeared first on Hot Rod Network.

from Hot Rod Network http://www.hotrod.com/articles/starting-line-fourth-left-race-legit/ via IFTTT

[ralphmorgan-blog1]

Badiucao: A Chinese political cartoonist reinvents himself in Australia

Adelaide, Australia (CNN)Halfway up Mount Lofty, a squat, scenic mountain that overlooks the Australian city of Adelaide, Badiucao is uneasy.

Even for a millennial, Badiucao -- he uses a deliberately nonsensical pseudonym to protect his identity -- is tied to his phone. With it in hand he is constantly checking Twitter, staying connected with China thanks to a non-stop stream of posts from journalists and fellow dissidents.

After almost seven years in self-imposed exile in Australia, more than anything else he fears being cut-off from his homeland, becoming another irrelevant overseas critic fighting yesterday's battles.

"Around 2010-2011 when Weibo was becoming very active, it was a relatively free medium, and a few cartoonists became popular," said Sophie Beach, editor of the US-based censorship watchdog China Digital Times.

"Once the authorities started cracking down on Weibo, they specifically targeted several of these outspoken cartoonists and the environment shrunk for them."

By now living outside China, Badiucao decamped to Twitter, from where his cartoons could still occasionally spread to the other side of the Great Firewall -- China's sprawling internet censorship apparatus -- but there was no risk of account deletion.

Freed from worrying about what Chinese internet users sarcastically call "harmonization," his profile continued to grow.

Expression

Badiucao's cartoons meld the thick, blocky lines of German expressionism with the red-and-black punchiness of Chinese Communist propaganda posters.

"When I first saw Badiucao's work it resonated for me. It reminded me of Kthe Kollwitz's woodcuts," Canadian cartoonist Daniel Murphy said, referring to the early-20th century German artist.

According to Murphy, just as Kollwitz used posters and pamphlets to spread her political beliefs, Badiucao has taken advantage of social media.

"There's a power in pictures, they can immediately undermine some ruler on a golden throne in a golden hat and draped in ermine," he said. "It's the quickest way to yank somebody off a perch."

China Digital Times' Beach said that Badiucao's style lends itself to China's often opaque online discussions.

"Whereas a lot of the time people writing about politics in China use all this coded language, cartoons are a direct form of expression," she said.

Beach compared Badiucao to China's best-known dissident artist. "He has that same in your face manner as Ai Weiwei, of not caring what the authorities think," she said.

Outspoken Chinese artists often don't fare well at home. Ai was put under house arrest in 2010 and detained by the Chinese government in 2011 in a separate incident for tax evasion, and has claimed he found government listening devices in his apartment.

Cartoonist Wang Liming, better known as Rebel Pepper, fled to Japan in 2014 after what he said was prolonged harassment from the authorities.

"Maybe the Party wants to admonish people one by one as examples," Wang said in 2015. "If they don't throw you in jail, they'll make it impossible for you to live."

Expansion

Like Ai Weiwei, Badiucao creates work in a number of different formats. His first major art show opened in Adelaide, Australia, in September2016.

During that show, the artist stood silently in the corner in a prison jumpsuit with a hood over his head, both present and absent at the same time. A DJ played as attendees milled around, looking at brightly colored campaign posters stuck to the walls casting Chinese President Xi Jinping as a candidate in the recent Australian general election.

Under Xi's face, painted in thick, blotchy oils, were slogans like "China's Reds for the chairman," and "We'll put Party first."

On the floor, mounds of baby formula were piled on top of a black tarp and shaped to form the faces of six children killed in 2008 by a batch of milk powder contaminated with melamine, an industrial chemical used for making plastic tableware. Over the course of the two-month installation, the powder reacted with the moisture in the air, the faces of the children blurring and disappearing just as the story has faded from the headlines.

Opposite the powder, in a small glass case, lay the catalyst for the show, and Badiucao's desire to push beyond his previous work. A passport, its dark red cover embossed with the emblem of the People's Republic of China, with the top right corner sliced off. After years overseas, Badiucao is no longer a Chinese citizen.

Upbringing

Badiucao's parents hoped he would not be political. He said his grandparents were imprisoned during Mao Zedong's Anti-Rightist Movement and his father grew up an orphan.

His parents encouraged him to be a dentist or hairdresser -- "jobs that never get in trouble with the authorities" -- but instead he went to law school, dreaming of joining the ranks of China's incredibly brave and often arrested human rights lawyers.

At university, a roommate acquired a copy of the 1995 film "The Gate of Heavenly Peace," about the Tiananmen Square massacre of June 4, 1989.

"The guy who downloaded the documentary is now a public security officer," Badiucao said. "There's no room for that kind of thought outside university. China makes it just hard enough to achieve that people have to censor and watch themselves to get ahead."

# #badiucao Performance Art One Tankman 27th Anniversary for Tiananmen Massacre # #tiananmensquare #tiananmen1989 # # # # # #tiananmen #tiananmensquare #art #artwork #performance #public #China #Adelaide #australia PhotographerAlycia Bennett

A post shared by badiucao (@badiucao) on Jun 4, 2016 at 7:45pm PDT

The film had a profound effect on Badiucao however, one that is still visible in his work today.

On the 2016 anniversary of the massacre, he re-created the famous Tank Man moment in Adelaide's city center, standing impassively dressed in black-and-white, with shopping bags at his side and a mask covering his face, until security guards forced him to leave.

His parents sensed the danger in his talent and rebelliousness. "It was a constant struggle as I was growing up," he said. "There were lots of fights."

Thinking of home

Even as he gets further away from the country of his birth -- becoming an Australian citizen and getting more involved in local politics and issues -- Badiucao has strived to maintain his relevance in China.

His latest show -- "Home Thoughts From Abroad," which ran until April 6 -- is a collaboration with two other artists who exist at the crux of two countries, Afghan refugee Elyas Alavi and Filipina-Iranian Aida Azin.

Badiucao's contributions to the show include a selection of his political cartoons, a giant air-pollution mask made from a Chinese flag, and a bed (the first he ever slept on when he came to Australia), with the mattress replaced by 4,000 individually-sharpened pencils.

He sharpened all the pencils, ordered in bulk from a Chinese website, by hand. "First they were all the same, after I sharpened them, I gave them individuality, made them different," he said.

He then took it away, with the piece representing his fear of fading back into the mass of China writ large: "On the bed they become united again, the personal characteristics of each pencil disappears, as if the individual is coming back under the control of the nation."

While Badiucao's installation work is based on his cartoons, curator Joanna Kitto said that creating 3D versions of the work added a layer of complexity not always visible in print.

"Cartoons must be very direct in the way they speak about issues, when you (create installations) you need to leave a degree of space for the audience," Kitto said.

Badiucao agreed. "People can feel that cartoons are exaggerations," he said.

"By making it into a real object, it will bring audiences back to reality. This is not a joke, this is something happening in the real world."

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Badiucao: A Chinese political cartoonist reinvents himself in Australia was originally posted by A 18 MOA Top News from around

[northpointdentalcentres]

Toowoomba’s Top Emergency Dentists: How to Choose the Right One for You

When facing a dental emergency, finding a reliable and skilled emergency dentist becomes crucial. In the city of Toowoomba, there are several outstanding emergency dentists who provide prompt and effective care. However, choosing the right dentist for your specific needs can be a daunting task. This article aims to guide you through the process of selecting the best emergency dentist in Toowoomba by highlighting important factors to consider.

Qualifications and Expertise:

The first and foremost factor to consider when choosing an emergency dentist is their qualifications and expertise. Ensure that the dentist has the necessary education and training in emergency dental care. Look for dentists who have completed advanced courses or have specific certifications in emergency dentistry. Their experience in handling dental emergencies will give you confidence in their ability to provide the appropriate treatment.

Accessibility and Availability:

During a dental emergency, timely treatment is crucial for pain relief and to prevent further complications. Consider the accessibility and availability of the emergency dentist. Find out their office hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, to ensure they can accommodate your emergency needs. Additionally, check their location and proximity to your home or workplace to minimize travel time during emergencies.

Range of Services:

Evaluate the range of emergency dental services offered by the dentist. Dental emergencies can vary from toothaches and broken teeth to severe infections or injuries. Choose a dentist who can handle a wide range of emergencies and provide comprehensive care. This ensures that you can receive the necessary treatment without being referred to multiple specialists.

Advanced Technology and Equipment:

A reputable emergency dentist should have access to advanced technology and modern dental equipment. This includes digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, and state-of-the-art diagnostic tools. Advanced equipment aids in accurate diagnosis and ensures efficient and effective treatment. It also reflects the dentist’s commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in emergency dentistry.

Patient Comfort and Care:

Dental emergencies can be stressful and anxiety-inducing. Look for an emergency dentist who prioritizes patient comfort and provides a caring and supportive environment. Pay attention to aspects such as the dentist’s communication style, their ability to explain treatment options, and their willingness to address any concerns or questions you may have. A compassionate dentist can help alleviate anxiety and make your emergency dental visit more comfortable.

Emergency Protocols and Procedures:

Inquire about the emergency protocols and procedures followed by the dental practice. Ask about their response time, triage system, and how they handle urgent cases. A well-organized emergency dental practice will have established procedures to ensure efficient and prompt care. It is important to choose a dentist who is well-prepared to handle emergencies and can provide immediate attention when needed.

Patient Reviews and Testimonials:

Consider the experiences of other patients by reading online reviews and testimonials. Look for feedback on the emergency dentist’s expertise, professionalism, and quality of care. Positive reviews and recommendations can provide valuable insights and help you gauge the dentist’s reputation in the community. However, it’s essential to consider a range of reviews to form a balanced opinion.

Insurance and Payment Options:

Check if the emergency dentist accepts your dental insurance or offers flexible payment options. Dental emergencies can be unexpected and often come with associated costs. Having clarity about insurance coverage and payment options beforehand can alleviate financial concerns. Contact the dental office or review their website to understand their policies regarding insurance claims and payment plans.

Conclusion:

Selecting the right emergency dentist Toowoomba is a decision that can significantly impact your dental health and overall well-being during an emergency situation. By considering factors such as qualifications, accessibility, range of services, technology, patient care, emergency protocols, patient reviews, and insurance/payment options, you can make informed.

FAQ

Q: What should I consider when choosing an emergency dentist in Toowoomba?

A: When choosing an emergency dentist in Toowoomba, consider factors such as their qualifications and expertise, accessibility and availability, range of services offered, advanced technology and equipment, patient comfort and care, emergency protocols and procedures, patient reviews and testimonials, and insurance and payment options.

Q 2: How do I know if an emergency dentist is qualified and experienced?

A  : To determine if an emergency dentist is qualified and experienced, research their educational background, certifications, and any specialized training in emergency dentistry. Additionally, look for reviews and testimonials from other patients to gauge their expertise and the quality of care they provide.

Q 3: Is the emergency dentist available outside of regular office hours?

A  : When faced with a dental emergency, it’s crucial to know if the emergency dentist is available outside of regular office hours. Inquire about their after-hours availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Having access to an emergency dentist who can provide timely care is essential for prompt relief and treatment.

Q 4: What types of dental emergencies can an emergency dentist in Toowoomba handle?

A : An emergency dentist in Toowoomba should be equipped to handle a wide range of dental emergencies. This may include toothaches, broken or chipped teeth, dental abscesses or infections, lost fillings or crowns, severe gum pain or swelling, and dental trauma resulting from accidents or injuries. Ensure that the emergency dentist you choose can address your specific emergency needs.

Q 5: How can I determine if an emergency dentist is covered by my dental insurance?

A: To determine if an emergency dentist is covered by your dental insurance, contact your insurance provider or check their website for a list of in-network dentists. You can also directly contact the dental office and inquire about their acceptance of your insurance plan. Additionally, ask about any flexible payment options they may offer for emergency treatments.

Remember, these FAQs provide general guidance, and it’s always advisable to contact the specific dental office directly for more detailed and up-to-date information regarding their services and policies.

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Achieving a Dazzling Smile: Cosmetic Dentistry in Toowoomba

A beautiful smile can make a significant impact on one's overall appearance and self-confidence. Cosmetic dentistry offers a range of treatments designed to enhance the aesthetics of your smile. In Toowoomba, there are skilled and experienced dentists who specialize in cosmetic dentistry, providing various procedures to help you achieve a dazzling smile. In this article, we will explore the different cosmetic dentistry options available in Toowoomba and how they can transform your smile.

1.       Teeth Whitening: Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments in Toowoomba. Over time, our teeth can become stained or discolored due to various factors such as aging, tobacco use, or consumption of certain foods and beverages. Professional teeth whitening treatments offered by dentists Toowoomba can effectively lighten the shade of your teeth, giving you a brighter and more radiant smile.

2.       Dental Veneers: Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are bonded to the front surface of the teeth. They are an excellent solution for individuals with chipped, cracked, or severely stained teeth. Toowoomba dentists use high-quality porcelain or composite resin veneers that mimic the natural appearance of teeth, resulting in a flawless smile.

3.       Dental Bonding: Dental bonding is a procedure in which a tooth-colored resin material is applied and hardened with a special light, bonding it to the tooth. This treatment is ideal for fixing minor imperfections such as small chips, gaps, or discoloration. In Toowoomba, dental bonding is a quick and cost-effective way to enhance the appearance of your smile.

4.       Invisalign Clear Aligners: Invisalign is an innovative orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear aligners to gradually straighten your teeth. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible and can be easily removed for eating and cleaning. Many dentists in Toowoomba offer Invisalign as a discreet and comfortable alternative for achieving a perfectly aligned smile.

5.       Dental Crowns : Dental crowns, also known as caps, are custom-made restorations that cover the entire visible surface of a damaged or decayed tooth. They not only strengthen and protect the tooth but also improve its appearance. Toowoomba dentists use high-quality materials like porcelain or ceramic to create natural-looking dental crowns, ensuring a seamless blend with your existing teeth.

6.       Dental Implants: Dental implants are a long-lasting solution for missing teeth. They consist of artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for a dental crown or bridge. Toowoomba dentists skilled in implant dentistry can restore your smile by replacing one or more missing teeth with lifelike dental implants, giving you the confidence to smile and eat comfortably again.

7.       Gum Contouring: Uneven or excessive gum tissue can detract from the overall appearance of your smile. Toowoomba dentists offer gum contouring procedures to reshape and sculpt the gumline, creating a more balanced and harmonious smile. This treatment is often combined with other cosmetic dental procedures to achieve optimal results.

Conclusion: Cosmetic dentistry in Toowoomba provides a range of solutions to transform your smile and boost your confidence. Whether you are seeking teeth whitening, dental veneers, orthodontic treatments, or restorative procedures, the skilled dentists in Toowoomba can help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Consult with a cosmetic dentist in Toowoomba to discuss your concerns and find the most suitable treatment option that will enhance the natural beauty of your smile. Invest in your smile and unlock the potential of a dazzling and radiant new you.

FAQ :

Q: What is cosmetic dentistry?

Answer: Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on improving the appearance of your smile. It includes various treatments and procedures aimed at enhancing the color, shape, size, alignment, and overall aesthetics of your teeth. Cosmetic dentistry can address issues such as discoloration, chipped or cracked teeth, gaps between teeth, misalignment, and more, helping you achieve a dazzling smile.

Q: What are some common cosmetic dentistry procedures?

Answer: Cosmetic dentistry in Toowoomba offers a range of procedures to enhance your smile. These may include teeth whitening, dental veneers, dental bonding, Invisalign clear aligners, dental crowns, gum contouring, and dental implants. Each procedure is tailored to address specific concerns and can be customized to suit your unique needs and goals.

Q: Are cosmetic dentistry procedures painful?

Answer: Most cosmetic dentistry procedures are performed under local anesthesia, ensuring that you experience minimal to no discomfort during the treatment. Dentists in Toowoomba prioritize patient comfort and use advanced techniques to minimize any potential discomfort. After the procedure, you may experience mild sensitivity or discomfort, but it is usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary.

Q: How long does it take to see results from cosmetic dentistry treatments?

Answer: The timeline for achieving your desired results depends on the specific cosmetic dentistry procedure you undergo. Teeth whitening treatments usually provide immediate results, while procedures like dental veneers or Invisalign may require several visits over a few weeks or months. Your dentist will discuss the expected timeline with you during the initial consultation, ensuring you have a clear understanding of the treatment process and the anticipated timeframe for achieving your dazzling smile.

Q: Is cosmetic dentistry covered by insurance?

Answer: In general, cosmetic dentistry procedures are considered elective and primarily focus on improving the aesthetics of your smile rather than addressing medical or functional issues. As a result, they may not be covered by dental insurance. However, it's recommended to check with your dental insurance provider to understand the extent of coverage for specific procedures. Some cosmetic dentistry treatments may have a functional component, and in those cases, a portion of the treatment cost may be covered.

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Why you should try for porcelain veneers to get pretty smile?

Porcelain veneers are a cosmetic dentistry solution gaining popularity over the years as more people have demanded to enhance their smile and increase their self-confidence using Porcelain/Ceramic Veneers. You might have questioned whether you are an ideal candidate for veneers.

What are porcelain veneers?

A porcelain veneer – also referred to as a ceramic veneer – is a thin covering applied to the front surface of a tooth. Patients can acquire a single veneer or a whole set that covers all the teeth that show while they smile. Porcelain veneers are custom-made for each patient so that they can be a perfect fit for them. Dental veneers provide quick transformation for a patient’s smile. Dentists may utilize dental veneers for many cosmetic fixes from orthodontic adjustments to teeth whitening.

How can porcelain veneers transform my smile?

Porcelain veneers can alter the shape, size, and color of a patient’s teeth and fully abolish many cosmetic imperfections altogether, including:

Stains that don’t respond to bleaching

Chips

Cracks

Gaps

Slightly misshapen or undersized teeth

Slightly crooked teeth

Discolored teeth

Just a small crack or chip in one tooth can disturb the whole appearance of your smile. No matter how minor a crack or chip it is, injury can get worse over time and threaten long time health of your teeth. Porcelain veneers can be the ideal choice for rapidly repairing a cracked or chipped tooth. A single porcelain veneer can be placed over the damaged tooth will quickly enhance its appearance strengthening it and protecting it from any future damage.

If your natural teeth became discolored and professional teeth whitening treatment is not responding very well for you then veneers are the best choice for instantly whitening those teeth. Your dentist can apply veneers over the teeth which have become discolored which provides you a better smile.

What is the procedure like?

Like other cosmetic dentistry treatments, dentist will take time to comprehend your particular needs. During evaluation for porcelain veneers, the dentist will think about your natural teeth, paying attention to enamel coverage.  An essential consideration for veneers is the amount of enamel on your teeth will affect veneer bonding and durability.

Once the dentist has determined that porcelain veneers are appropriate for you, they will start the process. This includes the preparation of customized veneers using a mold of your tooth or teeth.

We at Northpoint dental will give assurance of using top-quality materials. Porcelain veneers are more long-lasting, stronger, and thus less likely to chip or discolor.

Who is not an ideal candidate for porcelain veneers?

Healthy gums and teeth are essential for those patients who desire porcelain veneers. Patients who have conditions like gum disease, tooth decay, and root canal infection are normally not appropriate candidates for veneers.

About NorthPoint Dental

The team of dentists at NorthPoint Dental offers lots of dental services that aim to give patients gorgeous and healthy smiles. If you’re looking for porcelain veneers or any other cosmetic treatment, please contact us at (07) 46383384.

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How to identify if you have gum disease?

“Periodontal Disease”, in common words gum disease is the reason behind the inflammation of the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth. It is due to a particular kind of bacteria infecting and gums. It is a serious dental condition and if not treated then it can lead to serious oral health conditions. Many people don't understand that gum disease can be treated prior to its detection. Having routine check-up appointments with the dentist is the best approach to confirm if you are suffering from gum disease.

Sign of gum disease:

• Gums that bleed after brushing.

• Gums that Appear Red and Swollen

• Gum discoloration

• Constant bad breath.

• Sores in your mouth

• Loose teeth

• Painful chewing

• Sensitive teeth

Gingivitis vs. Periodontists

Gingivitis is the reason behind the gums to be red, swollen and bleed. Too much plaque buildup is the reason of Gingivitis. If plaque is not eliminated, it generates toxins that can inflame the gum tissue, which leads to gum inflammation and bleed.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease mostly results from bad oral hygiene, diabetes, use of particular medications, tobacco , poor diet. Despite that, most gum disease starts as simple gingivitis, which can be treated and prevented effortlessly.

How to Prevent Gum Disease?

Gum disease can be prevented by maintaining good oral hygiene which includes brushing two times per day for two minutes. Gum disease can be prevented by going to your dentist twice a year and maintaining a healthier diet.

It’s best to treat Gum Disease Early

Gum disease is treated in its initial stages making an early diagnosis leads to successful treatment. Schedule an appointment with our office so that we can evaluate your oral health, and provide you with a treatment plan that will help fight with gum disease

Gum Disease Treatment at Northpoint Family Dental

If you are experiencing any signs described above then it is sensible to visit your dentist for a comprehensive examination. Treating gum disease early can effectively stops the symptoms. Contact one of our friendly practices or book an appointment online today.

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Do I require to Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Pain in the backside of the upper or lower jaw many times is the early indication that your wisdom teeth are creating trouble. You can experience pressure on the backside of the mouth. Gum tissue nearby erupting wisdom tooth often happens to be sensitive and inflamed. Many people don’t have any symptoms. That’s why you should have your wisdom teeth inspected by a dentist to decide if extraction is required.

Is removal always necessary?

If your wisdom teeth are impacted taking sufficient care of your oral hygiene becomes difficult, it’s better to have them removed. Many dentists will recommend keeping your wisdom teeth in place if they’re not creating any issues such as decay or gum disease. However, even wisdom teeth that come in correctly can create problem later, So if you keep your wisdom teeth, be sure to regularly brush and floss them well. Dentist may suggest having them removed if:

• There is no space for them to erupt

• The soft tissue in the area gets infected

• They’re hard for you to keep clean

• The impacted teeth are causing pain

What happens when a wisdom tooth is affected?

Wisdom teeth are buried, either partially or completely, in the soft tissue or jaw bone, and are more susceptible to disease and other problems. You cannot clean impacted wisdom teeth appropriately, so they begin to decay and cause disease.

What problems can occur after removal?

Mild to moderate pain is common and likely after an extraction. Some pain and swelling are possible to happen with all extractions. In most cases, pain killers help manage the pain and swelling. Ice is suggested for the first 24 hours to lower swelling.

apart from maintaining oral hygiene and visiting the dentist on a regular basis, there’s not many patients can or need to do to help them with their wisdom molar pain and problem

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General Dental Problems of Children

Kid’s teeth are delicate and thinner compared to adult teeth and can be easily exposed to dental disease leading to damage. Helping children in taking good care of their teeth and gums could set up good oral hygiene practices for life. Parents prefer to have best available care for their kid's teeth. Once the teeth erupt, it’s vital to maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine to prevent common dental problems. Dental-related issues are common in children of all ages, this is the reason preventative and proactive care is so significant. Tooth decay is an illness that is mostly seen in childhood and young age. It's easy to ignore our children’s oral health needs. Here are the most common dental problems that children experience:

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is the most common dental disease that influences children of all ages. The oral cavity has bacteria this bacteria breaks down sugars of food and drinks into acids weakening the teeth over time, resulting in cavities. Tooth decay may be treated in its initial phase with the help of fluoride treatments and improving oral hygiene. If a cavity is already existing, your dentist can restore it with a white filling. If decay is left unaddressed, it gets to a point where it cant be saved and it may need extraction. Young children aren’t skilled at brushing and flossing without guidance. Parents should guide and help their kids to brush their teeth until they control a toothbrush on their own. Ensuring removing plaque, bacteria, and food particles from teeth daily will assist to stop initial tooth decay.

Gum Disease

You may have believed that gum disease is a dental problem found in adults. Unluckily for parents, this is not the case. Gingivitis and gum disease can take place in children and are actually quite normal in pediatric dental patients. If your child’s gum seems to be red or swollen, feel itchy, bleed when brushed, these could be indications that gingivitis exists. Gum disease is more aggressive in children with bad oral hygiene. It includes pain in the mouth and areas of swelling. In most instances, gingivitis and gum disease can have been prevented if more care was taken during brush and floss daily.

Dental Emergencies

Dental emergencies can occur at any time. While playing sports, riding a bike, playing in the park dental-related accident can occur. These accidents can lead to the fracturing of teeth. If your kid’s permanent tooth has fallen out, quickly call the dentist for an appointment. Custom mouthguard is a better choice to help prevent sports-related injuries.

Orthodontic Problems

Children often don’t have perfectly straight teeth. Fortunately, there are many orthodontic treatments to aid your child to gain a smile with confidence. Common Orthodontic problems include the size and shape of teeth size of the jaw and their alignment. Some general misalignment problems found in kids include overbite, underbite, open bite, and spacing problems. Orthodontic problems can mean more than just a crooked smile. Significant overcrowding and malalignment of your child’s teeth can result in jaw problems, sleeping disorders, and oral hygiene issues.

Talk to a family dentist in Northpoint, Toowoomba

If it’s time for your child’s dental check-up or you need to talk to a dentist, contact us today. Call our Northpoint dental at (07) 46383384 or book an appointment at our clinic.