Regular Dental Checkups for Kids 6-8 Years Old

Written by: Dr. Chantal Kengo, Specialist Pedodontist

In the health sector, the well-proven rule is, it is better to prevent than cure, and this of course, is just as relevant when it comes to oral health.

So for all of us, and particularly children, regular dental checkups are the key to healthy teeth.

As a matter of fact, children aged 6 to 8 undergo an important change in terms of mouth development and teeth growth. They move from having baby teeth to having a mix of baby and adult teeth. And these adult teeth will then stay in the child’s mouth forever.

This major mouth transformation of the child will most of the time create position problems and cavities for which professional attention will be needed.

The major changes

• The child will replace his 8 front teeth; the 4 upper and the 4 lower baby incisors with permanent incisors.
• The child will also undergo the growth of 4 molars behind his baby molars (2 up and 2 down). These teeth are called: the 6-year-old molars. Molars are the teeth located at the back of the mouth.

Dr. Chantal Kengo, Pediatric Dentist

Why Regular Checkups?

Regular checkups should take place every 6 months and during this key childhood period, they will allow the Pediatric Dentist:

1. To prevent wrong bites (malocclusions)
   Indeed, the 8 new permanent incisors are much larger than the baby ones. That will create a lot of position problems as these new teeth won’t have enough space for all of them to fit properly.
   The Pediatric Dentist will therefore intercept these wrong positions in order to prevent malocclusions.
2. To prevent cavities
   The 6-year-old molars arrive silently and without pain, as they don’t replace any teeth. They are very prone to damage and as a matter of fact, children may not include these teeth (the teeth are too far back) in their brushing routine if they are not taught to do so.

A visit to the Pediatric Dentist will make the child and his parents aware of the new teeth and teach them how to effectively clean and brush them. The Pediatric Dentist will eventually apply sealants and fluoride on these new teeth for protection.

Life After Orthodontics: Do I Really Need Retainers?

Written by Dr. Argiro Kechagia

So you’re finally nearing the finish line of your orthodontic treatment. How can you make sure you can keep and maintain your brand new smile?

Our Specialist Orthodontist Dr. Argiro Kechagia talks about the six most commonly asked about dental retainers. What are they for and do you really need them? Find out today!

1. What are orthodontic retainers for? 
The retainers are a part of the last phase of orthodontic treatment and are very important since they are responsible in maintaining and holding the alignment of the teeth, and the improvement of the bite after the completion of active orthodontic treatment.  

Teeth that have moved orthodontically have an inherent tendency to return to their original malocclusion positions.

The need of retention is very important to maintain the stability of the occlusion achieved by the orthodontist and the patient, and the retainers are doing exactly this.

2. Are there different kinds of retainers? 
There are two different kind of retainers and they are both frequently used:

Fixed retainers 
Fixed retainers are usually wires bonded to the back surfaces of lower anterior teeth for aesthetic and prolonged retention. These may be fabricated directly in the mouth or indirectly from an accurate stone model.

Removable retainers 
 Retainers that are made from stainless steel wire and acrylic (Hawley and WrapAround retainers)  Clear vacuum formed retainers. These retainers are comfortable and aesthetic because of their invisible appearance.

Dr. Argiro Kechagia
Specialist Orthodontist at Dr. Michael's Dental Clinic

3. How often and how long do I have to wear them?
It is recommended that all the patients have retention maintenance for at least 1 year. Most of the orthodontists use a removable retainer for the upper arch, as most of the relapse occurs in the first 6 months following braces removal, the maxillary retainer is worn full time for the first 6 months. After the first 6 months, the patient can go to night wear only and gradually reduce this if there is no pressure areas when seating the retainer. The lower retainer is usually a fixed retainer, which it should be left in place for a longer period even a lifetime.

Always remember that the answer to the question of long-term stability is long-term retention.  

4. How do I know when I need new ones? 
With fixed retention, if you feel that the glue has come off on one or more teeth and that your bonded retainer has become loose, go and see your orthodontist as soon as possible.

The removable retainers will need replacement when:
 you wear through the plastic
 part/s of wires or acrylic break off
 they became very loose and your orthodontist is unable to tight them up again
 they just get very dirty like anything else that you wear everyday
 the position of your teeth changes enough that your retainer does not fit properly

In general, if your retainer doesn’t look or fit like it used to, it is time for an adjustment, repair, or replacement. Don’t delay and pay your orthodontist a visit right away.

5. How do I effectively clean my retainers? 
Fixed retention can make cleaning in between teeth more challenging. However, with good flossing procedures and regular hygienist appointments, the fixed retainers can be kept in place until adulthood or indefinitely if necessary.

With removable retainers, both types should be cleaned as follows:
 You can brush your removable retainers with a toothbrush (not the one that you are using to brush your teeth) with either liquid soap or a non-abrasive toothpaste. Just remember to rinse them well.
 Once a week, soak the retainers in denture cleaning solution. Dissolve the tablet and put the retainer in the solution for 10 minutes to 20 minutes maximum. Please only use cold water to soak your retainer.

6. Does my orthodontist still need to check my retainers regularly?
Regardless of the type of orthodontic retainer you have, you should always continue to arrange regularly check-ups with your orthodontist for at least 2 years post treatment.

Dr. Argiro has extensive training and experience in treating children, teens and adults using the latest techniques in orthodontics including lingual braces, invisible braces, the Damon system and mini implants. She is a certified provider of Invisalign, Eon and Incognito braces. She is also trained to manage patients with cleft lip and palate along with oral and maxillofacial surgeons.

To book a consultation with Dr. Argiro, please give us a call at 04-3949433 today. 

Digital Smile Design: Empowering Beautiful Smiles

Written by Dr. David Donelson, DMD FAGD

In today’s society, people desire having naturally beautiful smiles that are in harmony with their physical characteristics and expressive of their personalities. As a doctor that utilizes Digital Smile Design, we must be acutely aware of the many factors associated with developing a smile that goes beyond traditional dentistry. It takes an artistic vision and the ability to harness new technology to become a great designer of digital smiles.

Digital Smile Design is a systematic approach to consistently achieve functional and esthetic dentistry. It allows for diagnosis, communication, treatment planning and execution in a proven predictable way.

The concept is based on analysis of the patient’s facial and dental proportions. By using a series of high resolution digital photos and videos we are able to develop a deep understanding of the relationship of the teeth, gums, and lip with the rest of the face. Facial features that express emotion are analyzed to design the smile. Drawings are made on the digital photos to record measurements that translate to the desired characteristics of the smile. These photos are then used to communicate with the laboratory to fabricate a mold that is used to show the patient their new smile in their mouth.

Dr. David Donelson DMD FAGD

The DSD concept is customized for each individual patient. No two patient’s smiles are alike. The beauty of Digital Smile Design is the emotional response people have from the process of trying on their new smile. The patient becomes the co-author of their smile, allowing them to have input in their desires, expectations, color, shape and ultimately the end result.

The initial appointment for a Digital Smile Design takes about 45 minutes to an hour. The appointment consists of taking high resolution digital photos and videos, as well as impressions for study models. A week later at the follow up appointment the patient will see almost exactly what the end result will look like through the use of a “trial smile”. This is a direct replica of the smile design that temporarily goes over the existing teeth in order to test drive the new smile. At the end of the appointment the smile design is removed from the mouth before the patient leaves the office.

This “trial smile” is unique in that before committing to treatment the patient is able to see before and after photos. It allows for the doctor and patient to analyze the smile and make any improvements if necessary before beginning with treatment. The patient can then accept the case and make appointments to start work on their new smile.

Happy 44th UAE National Day

"As we celebrate the national day, we salute our heroes of the armed forces and stress our pride of the martyrs."
- H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan

8 Tips on Getting Your Child to Brush His Teeth

Brushing your child’s teeth should not be a daily rendition of an atrocious horror story. If it’s such a struggle getting your child to brush his teeth, you are not alone.

Having your young one embrace the early habit of cleaning his teeth may be a challenging task, but it is certainly an important one. Your child may respond differently to the usual brushing techniques other children his age would, so you may need to add a dose of creativity to get your child brushing in no time.

Here are a few tricks that may encourage your children to enjoy brushing:

1. Make toothbrush shopping special. Let your child pick out his own toothbrush. Colored, cartoon themed or even those that light up when squeezed - there are plenty of choices available in the market. Alternatively, you can buy identically colored toothbrush just for you and your little one.
2. Practice makes perfect. Let your child enjoy brushing the teeth of his favorite stuffed animal. You may even let him brush yours! When he’s done, give him a chance to brush his own teeth. Be sure to follow up with ‘polishing touches’ to make sure his teeth and gums are thoroughly cleaned.
3. Show your child that brushing is fun. If he’s hesitant about letting you brush his teeth, let him watch you as you carefully brush yours. Children love to copy what adults do and this could be the key to getting him engaged in taking care of his own oral health.
4. Add spice to the routine. While he tries to brush his teeth, make up silly words and dance along!
5. Brush away the pinky plaque. Give chewable tablets that turn plaque pink a try, and playfully persuade him to brush away the color with his toothbrush.
6. Name that tooth. Make him understand that each member of his pearly whites is important. Let your child give each tooth a nickname and remind him that not a single toothy character should be left out.
7. Be your child’s very own tooth fairy. Don’t forget to praise your child and reward him for a job well done!
8. Flavor counts. Let him choose the flavor that appeal to his taste. This could be the single most important key to getting him hooked on brushing. Also, be sure to use toothpaste that's specially made for kids.

Brushing should not be a chore. Don’t lose your heart if your child doesn’t develop a liking to brushing right away. Make the habit so much fun that he won’t be able to resist the urge to pick up his toothbrush next time!

Dr. Michael's Joins Thousands at the Beat Diabetes Walk 2015

22nd November 2015, Dubai, UAE: Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic’s team joined over 17,000 participants last Friday at the Beat Diabetes Walk at Zabeel Park.

Gulf News reports that the event organized by the Landmark Group raised almost Dh350,000 and the proceeds will be donated to Al Jalila Foundation, a Dubai-based philanthropic organization that promotes medical education and research.

According to the International Diabetes Foundation, there were 803,900 cases of diabetes in UAE in 2014. There are more than 37 million people in the MENA Region who have diabetes and by 2035 this will rise to 68 million.

What do we know about diabetes?

Here are some data from the World Health Organization.

• Diabetes is a chronic, metabolic disease characterized by elevated levels of blood sugar, which leads over time to serious damage to the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, and nerves.
• The most common is type 2 diabetes, usually in adults, which occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't make enough insulin. Type 1 diabetes, once known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, is a chronic condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin by itself.
• In 2014, 9% of adults 18 years and older had diabetes.
• In 2012, diabetes was the direct cause of 1.5 million deaths. More than 80% of diabetes deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries.
• Diabetes increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. In a multinational study, 50% of people with diabetes die of cardiovascular disease (primarily heart disease and stroke).
• Diabetes is among the leading causes of kidney failure.
• The overall risk of dying among people with diabetes is at least double the risk of their peers without diabetes.

Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic Begins 2016 Massive Abu Dhabi & Dubai Expansion

22nd November 2015, Dubai, UAE: Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic, the premier dental health care provider in Dubai, is set to embark on the largest expansion in the UAE.

The company is rolling out two new fully-digital branches in Abu Dhabi and two new branches in Dubai in 2016. Together, these offices will house 35-chair multi-speciality surgeries for both children and adults.

Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic invites application from Western educated and trained professionals for the following positions:

• General Dentists
• Orthodontists
• Endodontists
• Pediatric Dentists
• Periodontists
• Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons
• Implantologists
• Dental Hygienists
• Dental Assistants
• Receptionists
• Insurance Coordinators

Apply today! 

10 Commonly Asked Questions About Cavity Treatment

Cavities, dental caries or tooth decay, is the destruction of your tooth enamel, the hard, outer layer of the teeth. Around the world, 60–90% of school children and nearly 100% of adults have dental cavities. This makes cavity treatment one of the most common procedures dentists do on a day-to-day basis.

Here, Dr. Chris Johansson answers the 10 most commonly asked questions patients ask about cavities and how they are treated.

Be Safe, Drink More Water: Fact or Myth?

Author: Dr. Thomas Lyth, Dr. Michael's Dental Clinic

Do you have bad conscience about drinking water? Do you think you’re not drinking enough?

ExpatWoman Review: Visit to Pediatric Dentist Dr. Chantal Kengo

4th November, Dubai, UAE: ExpatWoman’s Sarah visited our Specialist Pediatric Dentist Dr. Chantal Kengo with her 7 year old daughter Sassy last Saturday. Here are some tidbits from their experience.

First visit: General checkup and fluoride application

“Dr. Chantal Kengo personally came to get us and we all sat down on chairs and talked about the reason for the visit. Sassy was to have a general checkup and Fluoride wash. Once the purpose of the visit had been established Dr. Chantal explained to Sassy that she would need to sit in her special chair so she could get a good look at her teeth.

The whole experience was stress-free and verging on fun. Sassy was given a mirror, watching as Dr. Chantal counted her teeth and got her involved in each procedure and action. Dr. Chantal has a natural easy way with kids and explained each and every instrument or tool she was to use. It made Sassy feel really comfortable. She introduced Shower and Mr. Thirsty as she did a good clean on her teeth after exposing the plaque left on Sassy’s teeth and a few stubborn sticky bananas.”

Second visit: Fillings

“Dr. Chantal’s child-oriented approach shone through as she explained about the sugar bugs that have made homes in Sassy’s teeth and now that there are so many of them they need more homes and were taking over more teeth.

I didn’t even see Sassy flinch as Dr. Chantal administered the injection! Dr. Chantal and her assistant, Christina, worked quickly and calmly mending the holes in Sassy’s teeth.”

Read Sarah’s full review.

Press Release: Distinguished Dentist Joins Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic

31^st October 2015, Dubai, UAE: Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic, the leading and most advanced dental health care provider in the region, is proud to welcome Dr. David Donelson to its team of general dentists. Dr. David is an active member of the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Implant Dentistry and is recently awarded with the prestigious Fellowship from the Academy of General Dentistry.

Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic’s Guatemala Mission

29th October 2015, Dubai, UAE: Dr. Christina Friis Møller and dental hygienist Dulene Swanepoel team up with healthcare providers and volunteers from around the world to provide exodontic treatments for indigent children and adults in Xela, Guatemala.

They will be there from the 24th – 30th of October completing rigorous training and utilizing stringent standards in delivering free access to dental care to the local community.

Teeth Whitening Aftercare Tips

Written by Thana Al-Tahan, Dental Hygienist at Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic

So you finally made the decision to go through with that teeth whitening procedure you’ve been thinking about all year. Your smile looks great, albeit your teeth are a bit sensitive for the time being, but what now? You certainly invested quite a bit of money to get rid of the years of daily tea, coffee, and tobacco stain. How are you going to make sure it was all worthwhile? 

Whitening only begins in the dental chair. Onward, it is up to you, the patient, to do your best in maintaining the oh-so-desired pearly whites you have just achieved, while simultaneously maintaining the integrity of your teeth. 

It is important to note that bleaching solutions are often very acidic. Acids (whether they come in the form of whitening agents or sour food/drink) temporarily soften enamel. For this reason, it is crucial to hold off on brushing your teeth as it may cause damage to your enamel. Wait at least half an hour before brushing your teeth after any whitening treatment. 

After whitening gels are removed, your teeth become slightly dehydrated; they will absorb from their surroundings similar to how a sponge does, and that includes color. Make sure your teeth are absorbing color from water, milk, and coconut, rather than tobacco, marinara sauce, and green tea. Your teeth will become very sensitive to stain for the first two days after in-office whitening and for about an hour after each home whitening session.

Lastly, you will want to maintain the shade you have achieved in the long run. Although professional whitening provides you with the most optimal, long lasting results, whitening is not forever; as all the things you may eat, drink, and smoke over the years will change the color of your teeth, inevitably, over the coming years. What stains teeth? Simple. Anything that has the potential to stain a white T-shirt will stain your teeth. If you absolutely must have that cup of Earl Grey in the morning or those cigarettes (which you’re going to quit soon, right?), alternate with sips of water and/or rinse very thoroughly several times after you are finished. Also, it may catch some stares but drink through a straw to prevent excessive contact with your teeth.

Be sure to keep up with your dental exam and cleanings. Throughout your visits, we will monitor the shade of your teeth here at Dr. Michael’s.

May your smile always be a source of confidence!

To schedule your whitening consultation, reach us at 04-3495900, 04-3949433 or 04-3397700 today. 

Abscessed Tooth Awareness: Causes, Dangers & Treatments

7th October 2015, Dubai, UAE: Dr. Marwan Al-Obeidi, Clinical Head at Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinics, talks about the causes of tooth abscess, its dangers and treatment.

Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic in Dubai Opens Doors to New Dentist

4^th October 2015, Dubai, UAE: Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic, the leading and most advanced dental health care provider in the region, welcomes Dr. Ladan Sahirad to its team. She is an accomplished dentist with over 10 years of private practice in London, UK.

“Dentistry is a career that provides plenty of rewards and challenges as well as an opportunity to help people and make communities healthier by restoring oral health and transforming the lives of the patients,” Dr. Ladan said. “Plus, it’s fairly independent and flexible and you can exercise creativity in your daily work.”

She earned her Doctorate in Dentistry from Tehran Dental University in 2003 and pursued advanced trainings in GKT Dental Institute in London and Sheffield Dental School prior to gaining full UK Registration as a General Dentist in 2005. In 2012, she successfully completed a year-long Smile Makeover and Full Mouth Rehabilitation by the Advanced Dental Seminars, the UK’s most prestigious program on Cosmetic and Aesthetic Restorative Dentistry for dentists from all over the UK and Europe.

Dr. Ladan’s expertise centers on cosmetic and restorative dentistry serving patients who seek high standard full mouth restoration, full ceramic crowns, veneers as well as pediatric and preventative therapy. Her robust experience also includes dental emergency treatments, working with adults with special needs and young children under general anesthesia.

“I found Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic a very pleasant and friendly environment that gives me the opportunity to work with a very supportive and knowledgeable team whose main aim is to provide patients with the best experience and care as possible.”

Dr. Ladan covers weekday afternoons and late evenings, and is available all day on Thursday and Saturday for the convenience of her patients. To schedule an appointment with her, please visit www.drmichaels.com to book an appointment online, or call Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic Umm Suqeim office at 04-3949433.

About Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic

Founded in 1997, Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic represents the most comprehensive, state-of-the-art, multispecialty dentistry in Dubai, UAE. It has assembled a team of international dental specialists, hygienists and support staff for general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, oral and maxillofacial surgery, implantology, orthodontics, prosthodontics and pediatric dentistry, serving nearly 40,000 patients in and around Dubai.

ENDS

Media enquiry

For further information, please contact:

Maria Cristina Cubacub

Marketing Manager

Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic

cristina@drmichaels.com

Contact No: +971564423078 

Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic Welcomes New Specialist Orthodontist

1^st September 2015, Dubai, UAE: Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic, the leading and most advanced dental health care provider in the region, welcomes Dr. Argiro Kechagia to its team of dental experts.

“I come from a family of orthodontists and dentists. My father was one of the first orthodontists to practice back in my home country, Greece. I was raised next to dental chairs, listening to him talking to patients, explaining the treatment and sharing the joy with his patients at the end of each appointment. My love for orthodontics became even stronger in the U.K. in my early days of dentistry. It was then that I realized how passionate I am about developing healthier and brighter smiles.”

Invisalign: What You Need To Know

Have you ever wondered what Invisalign can do to correct your smile? What is the treatment like and how long does it take? Find out from Dr. Teertha today.

How to Repair a Fractured or Broken Tooth

Written by Dr. Omar Aldaoudi

A broken or chipped tooth is a common type of dental injury. Dr. Omar Aldaoudi, Specialist Prosthodontist in Dubai, gives us advice on how to deal with it and how to prevent further damage.

Dry Socket: What Is It & How Is It Treated?

Dry socket or alveolar osteitis is a very painful condition that sometimes follows difficult tooth extractions. To give you an idea of just how painful it can be, people who have had toothache, say it is the worst pain imaginable. Dry socket can be more painful than toothache! Some patients with dry socket are convinced that the wrong tooth has been removed because they still feel “toothache” type pain. 

Dr. Zia tells us what we need to know about this condition and how it can be treated. 

Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic in Dubai Welcomes New Specialist Pediatric Dentist

Dr. Shadi Alkhatib Specialist Pediatric Dentist at Dr. Michael's Dental Clinic

6th August 2015, Dubai, UAE: Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic, the leading and most advanced dental health care provider in the region, welcomes Dr. Shadi Alkhatib to its team of dental experts.

Dr. Shadi is a licensed a Specialist Pediatric Dentist with years of experience centered on providing individualized dental care for children.

Up Close & Personal with General Dentist Dr. Zia Ul Haq

Get to meet Dr. Zia as he talk about the most common misconceptions about oral health, his career
philosophy and many more in this interview.

Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic in Dubai Announces New General Dentist

Dr. Zia Ul Haq, General Dentist at Dr. Michael's Dental Clinic

23rd June 2015, Dubai, UAE: Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic, the leading and most advanced dental health care provider in the region, is proud to announce the arrival of Dr. Zia Ul Haq, the newest general dentist to join their practice.

Dr. Zia graduated from the University of Birmingham in 1999 with a Bachelor of Medical Science B.Med.Sc. (Hons). He completed his BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) from the University of Sheffield in England in 2006 with distinctions in Advanced Restorative Dentistry.

“Dentistry is a creative profession, which combines both science and art. I chose it as a career because I have a passion for the sciences,” he said. “Couple this with a creative streak and a love of art; it made sense to choose dentistry as my career.”

Before joining Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic, Dr. Zia worked in Kent, England and has garnered many years providing high-end, complex restorative and cosmetic solutions for his patients.

“I am passionate about advanced Restorative Dentistry. It deals with the restoration of diseased, injured or abnormal teeth to normal appearance and function. I like it because it is challenging, it requires a high level of expertise and it brings together the art and science of dentistry. The satisfaction comes from seeing the transformation in the patient’s smile and improved confidence.”

“Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinics are world class. It has created sanctuaries for dental care with complete focus on people. Staff support and opportunities to grow and develop are second to none. I am very privileged to be working with such esteemed colleagues in such beautiful surroundings. “

Dr. Zia covers most weekday evenings and his surgery is open every Saturday and Sunday for the convenience of his patients.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Zia by calling Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic in Umm Suqeim at 04-3949433. For more information on the clinic’s services and procedures, visit www.drmichaels.com.

Ends

About Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic
Founded in 1997, Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic represents the most comprehensive, state-of-the-art, multispecialty dentistry in Dubai, UAE. It has assembled a team of international dental specialists, hygienists and support staff for general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, oral and maxillofacial surgery, implantology, endodontics, orthodontics, prosthodontics and pediatric dentistry, serving nearly 40,000 patients in and around Dubai.

Media enquiry
For further information, please contact:

Maria Cristina Cubacub
Marketing Director
Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic
cristina@drmichaels.com
Contact No: +971564423078  

Bleeding Gums: A Clear Sign of Trouble

There are lots of misconceptions about bleeding gums and there are some people who would stop brushing when it happens. We asked the help of one of our dental hygienists, Felicia, and here are her answers to the most common questions we get from our patients about bleeding gums.

Why do gums bleed? Is it normal?
When people don't practice proper dental hygiene, bacteria in the mouth form plaque on the teeth. These bacteria may cause your gums to become inflamed, which results in red, swollen, or bleeding gums. For many people with gingivitis, this inflammation is not painful. If you catch gingivitis early, it can be reversed and healed with proper oral hygiene. But left untreated, gingivitis can worsen and ultimately lead to the patient losing teeth.

My gums bleed while I brush my teeth. Should I be concerned? What should I do?
Gums bleed because you are not able to clean their teeth properly, nor your gums in this case. Bleeding gums, known as gingivitis, are very common, and nothing to be scared off. But it is the initial phase of gum disease (known as periodontitis) therefore should not be ignored. A lot of patients would stop brushing as soon as they see bleeding, but as a matter of fact they should keep on brushing, and actually brush more thoroughly and for longer time.

Read more here.

Eid Mubarak!

Ramadan and Oral Health: What You Need to Know

Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam, and all throughout the Holy month of Ramadan, Muslims fast every day from early dawn to sunset. All physically, mentally healthy and mature Muslims around the world abstain from eating, drinking, smoking and all other physical needs.

When it comes to oral hygiene and dental treatments, what should dental providers and fasting patients know about Ramadan?

Our specialist prosthodontist Dr. Omar Aldaoudi gives us insight on oral health and dental procedures during the Holy Month. In terms of dentistry, which acts are permissible and which ones would nullify the fast? Find out here.

Dr. Ines Ioana Sandhof, Up Close & Personal

Dr. Ines Sanshof joins Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic with nearly 14 years of private dental practice in Germany and KSA. Find out why she chose to be a dentist and what her philosophy is below.

Why did you choose to be a dentist?

From a very young age I was fascinated by art, science in general and medicine in particular. I believe dentistry unites all 3 of them and if one finds content and joy in helping others, then you can say that those are the reasons why I chose to be a dentist and also explains why I (still) enjoy to be one, although I’m practicing now for almost 14 years.

What do you like most about what you do?

The fact that I work with my hands, it’s real and the results are visible. You need imagination, creativity and skilled hands. You meet all kinds of people in their worst and in their best shape. Sometimes you are a dentist, sometimes a psychologist, sometimes a friend. It’s the multitude of facets and the daily challenge.

Read more.

ExpatWoman Dubai Dental Hygiene Visit Review

Dental Hygienist Alessandro

26th May 2015, Dubai, UAE: Chrissie from ExpatWoman visited our dental hygienist Alessandrofor teeth cleaning – scale and polish. Here’s an excerpt from her experience.

“Most dental clinics feel all too sterile for me, when I arrived at this haven I couldn’t believe my eyes – bright and airy, lots of greenery, fishes happily swimming around in their fish tank, comfortable seating with lots of cushions, tea and coffee making facilities and the beautiful gardens resembling serenity with water features and play areas for children.

Never before have I experienced such attention to detail from a dentist, for me - just because my teeth are okay it doesn’t mean they don’t need special attention once in a while. I felt Alessandro gave my teeth that little extra care which hopefully means (with my help flossing) that they’ll stay healthier for longer. It’s recommended every six months to visit the hygienist and seeing the difference in service offered at Dr Michaels I’ll definitely be returning for my next 6 monther!”

More here.

Dr. Gun Ingrid Norell Trains UAE Dentists for the Inman Aligner Certification Course

Dr. Gun Ingrid Norell

24^th May 2015, Dubai, UAE: We would like to congratulate Dr. Gun Ingrid Norell for the very successful Inman Aligner Certification Course held earlier this month at the Radisson Royal Hotel in Dubai. Dr. Gun and Dr. James Russell were selected to train 23 dentists from all over the UAE.

Saving Your Natural Teeth on Root Canal Awareness Week

If you need a root canal, see an endodontist.

Root canals don’t cause pain – they relieve it.

March 23, 2015, Dubai, UAE – In support of the Root Canal Awareness Week which runs from March 22-28, 2015, Dr. Yasmin Al-Zoubaidy, Root Canal Specialist at Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic aims to dispel myths about root canal treatment (RCT) and advocates the special role of the Endodontist on the dental team.

A root canal is a procedure done to treat and save a tooth that is damaged, infected or badly decayed. The treatment involves the removal of the inflamed or infected nerves and pulp inside the tooth. That area inside the tooth is then cleaned, disinfected and sealed. After restoration, a root-canaled tooth continues to function like any other healthy tooth.

Endodontists are dental specialists with two or more additional years of specialized training following dental school. They are the experts in root canal treatments and they use their training in treating even the most complex and unusual root canal cases.

“As Endodontists, on average we perform 25 root canal treatments in a week, while general dentists perform less than two in the same period.”

Dr. Yasmin states that one of the most common misconceptions is that root canal treatment causes pain. “Root canal treatments alleviate pain and does not cause nor trigger it. Toothache is caused by damaged and infected tissue within the tooth and removing this damaged tissue through root canal relieves the pain patients feel.”

“As an Endodontist, my aim is to save teeth because nothing can replace your natural tooth. If you have an infected toe, you would not amputate the whole leg.”

“Another big myth is the link between root canal and cancer. Root canal treatments are safe and effective and there is no valid, scientific evidence linking root canal-treated teeth and disease elsewhere in the body. A research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that a patient’s risk of cancer doesn’t change after having a root canal treatment; in fact, patients with multiple endodontic treatments had a 45 percent reduced risk of cancer.”

“In my practice here in Dubai, I find that patients lead a very hectic lifestyle. They are in and out of the country a lot. Root canal treatment is a safe, pain-free, quick and efficient procedure, and in comparison to tooth extractions, root canal treatments allow teeth to function as they normally would. My patients can resume their daily activities right after the treatment – they can drive, get back to work and even be on their scheduled flights.”

To know more about the Root Canal Awareness Week, click here.

If you wish to book a root canal consultation with Dr. Yasmin, please call 04-3949433 or visit www.drmichaels.com today.

About Dr. Yasmin Al-Zoubaidy

Dr. Yasmin Al-Zoubaidy is a specialist endodontist at Dr. Michael's Dental Clinic. She is an American Board Certified (ABE) and Michigan Board Certified Endodontist. She became one of fourteen American Board Certified Endodontist Diplomats (ABE) in the state of Michigan and the only practicing Diplomate in the area listed by the American Board of Endodontics. Dr. Yasmin is a member of the American Association of Endodontist, American Board of Endodontics College of Diplomates and the American Dental Association.

About Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic

Founded in 1997, Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic represents the most comprehensive, state-of-the-art, multispecialty dentistry in Dubai, UAE. It has assembled a team of international dental specialists, hygienists and support staff for general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, oral and maxillofacial surgery, implantology, orthodontics, prosthodontics and pediatric dentistry, serving nearly 40,000 patients in and around Dubai.

ENDS

Media enquiry

For further information, please contact:

Maria Cristina Cubacub

Digital Marketing Manager

Dr. Michael’s Dental Clinic

cristina@drmichaels.com

Contact No: +971564423078