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In the complex endeavor of treating diabetes, a set of modern diabetes drugs have shown great potential in providing additional cardiovascular benefits. Not only do they help regulate blood sugar levels, but they also positively affect key cardiovascular risk factors. According to the latest research, certain types of diabetes drugs can improve lipid profile and blood pressure, thus reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) among diabetic patients. This approach is now integrated into the philosophy of companies, including Border Free Health.

It’s important to note that the different types of diabetes drugs provide varying degrees of cardiovascular benefits. For example, drugs classified as SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists are highly associated with cardiovascular advantage. Along with blood sugar control, they show effectiveness in managing hypertension and dyslipidemia—common comorbid conditions with diabetes—thereby decreasing the incidence of heart diseases.

Antiplatelet Therapy in Diabetic Patients

Apart from managing blood glucose, blood pressure, and lipids, diabetes care also involves antiplatelet therapy. Some diabetic patients might have a higher risk of developing blood clots, which can eventually lead to a stroke or a heart attack.

One of the critical diabetes drugs used under this regimen is aspirin. Aspirin is capable of lowering the chances of forming a clot by inhibiting the platelet aggregation process. Therefore, physicians often recommend the use of low-dose aspirin as a preventive measure in patients with diabetes and who are at a high risk for heart disease.

However, the decision to implement aspirin therapy can at times be complex. Doctors will take into account the patient’s age, history of heart disease, and bleeding risk.

Interestingly, diabetes management options are being expanded owing to continual research and breakthroughs. A wide range of prescription medication is becoming forefront to not only manage diabetes but also concurrently address cardiovascular risks.

Treating diabetes requires continuous commitment and monitoring to manage blood glucose levels. But drugs that double up with cardiovascular benefits help lighten the burden. As our understanding the disease evolves, so do our strategies for managing it. In years to come, we expect treatment options to become more efficient, with a stronger focus on patient-centered care. For the most comprehensive and up-to-date information on diabetes and cardiovascular health medications, visit https://borderfreehealth.com/.

Resilience acts as an anchor in the turbulent waters of life, guiding us through difficulties and storms. Seeking mental wellbeing is more important than ever as we negotiate the complexity of today’s society. Among the many strategies that are accessible, hypnotherapy stands out as a potent instrument for developing resilience, a mental health arsenal that goes beyond traditional techniques.

Recognizing Resilience

Resilience is a trait that enables people to handle life’s ups and downs with grace and fortitude. It is often characterized as the capacity to overcome hardship. It entails developing a mentality that makes it possible to overcome obstacles, keep going in the face of failure, and come out of hardships stronger than before. Developing resilience involves more than just enduring the storm; it also involves turning it into an opportunity for development. But how the Vancouver Hypnotherapy helps? Here are some important ideas for you.

The Method of Hypnotherapy:

Based on the ideas of reaching the subconscious, hypnotherapy provides a special means of developing resilience. It works on the premise that a large number of our attitudes, coping strategies, and emotional reactions are firmly embedded in the subconscious. Hypnotherapy makes it easier to recognize and change thinking patterns that might be impeding resilience by accessing this mental resource.

Mark’s Path to Adaptability (A small example)

Take Mark’s example, a professional who struggles with ongoing stress and anxiety. Mark had a significant reduction in daily stress via stress-reduction and relaxation hypnosis sessions, and he also learned the underlying reasons of his anxiety. He developed a new resilience by resolving these underlying concerns, which enabled him to approach work-related obstacles with a calm and flexible perspective.

Stress Reduction and Improved Emotional Regulation

Hypnotherapy’s capacity to lessen stress and improve emotional regulation is the fundamental mechanism by which it influences resilience. If chronic stress is not managed, it may weaken mental resilience and increase vulnerability to the negative consequences of adversity. Hypnotherapy gives people the skills necessary to achieve profound levels of relaxation, which encourages a cool-headed response to stressful circumstances. The foundation for developing resilience in the face of life’s uncertainty is this newly discovered emotional control.

Negative thinking Pattern Transformation

One of the transforming tools provided by hypnotherapy for mental wellbeing is the ability to confront and reframe negative thinking patterns. Many people have self-limiting ideas that make them less resilient and confident. By substituting powerful narratives and positive affirmations for these constricting ideas, hypnosis effectively identifies and challenges them. By changing the internal conversation, people may better prepare themselves to face obstacles with a resilient perspective.

Cultivating a Growth Mindset

Developing a growth mindset, or the conviction that setbacks provide chances for growth and learning, is directly linked to resilience. Through hypnosis, people may develop a growth mindset by learning to see obstacles as opportunities for personal development. Hypnotherapy creates the perception that problems are opportunities for resilience and progress rather than insurmountable barriers via positive suggestion and imagery.

Conclusion

Hypnotherapy’s ability to help patients develop resilience stands out as a comprehensive and powerful strategy in the pursuit of mental wellbeing. Hypnotherapy offers a full toolset for people who want to strengthen their mental resilience by managing stress, changing thinking patterns, developing a growth mindset, and increasing self-efficacy. The mental health toolset provided by hypnotherapy becomes an essential resource as the world changes and presents new challenges, a compass pointing people in the direction of a robust and fulfilling existence.

Atherosclerosis, arterial plaque, causes most heart disease, strokes, and other cardiovascular issues. Genetics influence atherosclerosis, but diet and lifestyle affect its start and progression. Therefore, this article will cover how diet and lifestyle affect atherosclerosis and how informed choices may help prevent, regulate, and reduce its risks.

Know atherosclerosis causes

Firstly, the complex disease Atherosclerosis starts with endothelial damage. Oxidative stress, high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, and inflammation may cause this damage. The body heals vascular injuries via white blood cells and other chemicals.

Then again, calcium, cellular debris, cholesterol, and other substances near the damage site cause problems. Plaque forms from these deposits. Arteries constrict with plaque, limiting blood flow. A plaque rupture or blood clot may induce a stroke or heart attack.

Food Effects on Atherosclerosis

Secondly, diet affects atherosclerosis start and progression. Diet may considerably affect our risk of this sickness. The following food factors impact atherosclerosis:

Trans and saturated fats: Fats found in red meat, full-fat dairy, and many processed meals may raise LDL (low-density lipoprotein), the “bad” cholesterol. Increased LDL cholesterol causes most arterial plaque.

Consuming Cholesterol

Even when saturated fats have a bigger influence on blood cholesterol levels than dietary cholesterol, dietary cholesterol may still contribute to atherosclerosis, especially in people who are genetically predisposed to high cholesterol.

Prepared Foods

Certain foods may worsen atherosclerosis and inflammation.

Sugar and Hidden Sugars

Obesity, diabetes, and inflammation from sugar, particularly added sugars in processed foods and sugary beverages, may increase atherosclerosis risk.

So, high Salt Consumption Diets high in salt may damage endothelial, accelerate atherosclerosis, and raise blood pressure. Therefore, salt reduction is essential for blood pressure control.

Produce and Fruit

Fruits and vegetables provide nutrients, antioxidants, and fiber to prevent atherosclerosis. So, fiber lowers cholesterol, and antioxidants prevent oxidative stress.

Lifestyle influences atherosclerosis:

Lifestyle choices, along with diet, affect atherosclerosis’ beginning and progression. The following lifestyle factors may affect atherosclerosis:

Being fat

Weight, especially abdominal obesity, increases the risk of atherosclerosis. Weight loss via diet and exercise reduces this risk.

Emphasize

Stress may lead to smoking, sedentary lives, and bad diets, which can increase atherosclerosis risk. Therefore, yoga, meditation, and mindfulness may reduce stress.

Drinking Alcohol

Atherosclerosis and high blood pressure are both deadly. They may result from excessive alcohol usage.

Management/Prevention Strategies:

Diet and lifestyle modifications may prevent and manage atherosclerosis:

Giving Up Smoking

Quitting smoking is the best way to minimize your risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. So, stopping requires resources and support.

To manage daily stress, use stress-reduction techniques. Therefore, deep breathing, yoga, meditation, and mindfulness may promote emotional wellness.

Limit Alcohol Use

Alcohol should be consumed moderately. For most people, this means one drink for women and two for men each day.

Adequate Sleep Get 7-9 hours of restful sleep each night and practice good sleep hygiene. Maintain a sleep schedule and a comfy bedroom.

So, frequently Checked Monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and cardiovascular health with frequent medical exams. Risk factors must be identified early to prevent and manage them.

Conclusion

In conclusion, lifestyle and nutrition affect atherosclerosis, a major cause of cardiovascular disease. Making informed diet, exercise, smoking, and stress management decisions may greatly reduce our risk of atherosclerosis and its potentially deadly repercussions. Finally, prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis include a heart-healthy diet, frequent exercise, stopping smoking, stress management, and proper sleep. These steps will extend and improve life.

While chemotherapy serves as a crucial defense against cancer, it also brings about significant side effects that can pose challenges for individuals. One particular challenge faced during chemotherapy is maintaining a healthy diet, which is essential for the body to combat infections and maintain strength.

To ensure you keep a healthy diet during these difficult times, check out the guide below!

Healthy Diet Tips for Chemotherapy from Breast Cancer Car Donations, a car donation foundation in Florida

If you have been thinking about straightening your teeth you need to speak to your dentist and find out about the many different types of braces that are now available thanks to advances in dental technology. For over 100 years, teeth straightening has been carried out using traditional metal braces. These consist of metal brackets, wires, and elastic bands that work together to apply pressure on your teeth and push them into a neater formation. They help to straighten the teeth. However, the modern generation prefers discretion. This is where traditional braces are lacking. Rather they are highly visible in the mouth therefore many teenagers and adults are reluctant to have their teeth straightened. Now there has been a huge change in orthodontic treatment. You can straighten your teeth discreetly with invisible orthodontic options. No one will even notice that you are undergoing orthodontic treatment unless you wish to tell them. If this is what you are looking for then speak to your dentist and find out about Invisalign Sydney.

Invisalign Sydney

Invisalign Sydney is one of the most popular methods of teeth straightening at your discretion. Invisalign Sydney allows you to straighten your teeth without anyone noticing. Invisalign Sydney uses clear thermoplastic aligners to straighten your teeth rather than metal brackets wires and elastic bands. These clear thermoplastic aligners are made of a patented medical grade plastic, which is BPA free, latex free and are non-allergenic. Any reactions to Invisalign aligners are very rare and minor. They can be used in patients of all ages with no upper age limit.

They can be used in patients as young as 6 to 8 years old and they can be used in senior patients too. Invisalign can be used to address a huge range of orthodontic issues. At first, it was thought that they are simply cosmetic. However, with research and further development, Invisalign can now be used to improve the alignment of crooked, wonky teeth, protruding front teeth, overlapping teeth, overcrowded teeth, minor gaps between the teeth and it can be used to treat different types of bite disorders, including overbite, underbite and crossbite. If you are affected by these issues, then you need to speak to your dentist and find out about Invisalign sooner rather than later.

For patients with purely aesthetic orthodontic issues, you can straighten your teeth in as little as 3 to 6 months. For patients with mild, moderate orthodontic issues, you can straighten your teeth in 6 to 12 months and for those with more complex orthodontic needs you can straighten your teeth in 12 to 24 months. With lifelong results, the treatment time is not very long, the sooner you begin the quicker you can enjoy the benefits of straightening your teeth.

How does Invisalign work?

To begin with, it is very important that your teeth are clean and healthy. You may need to undergo professional cleaning before you begin. This will remove any excess plaque and tartar from your teeth. Your hygienist can carry out a scale and polish and even a deep clean where necessary. Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums carefully to make sure that there are no signs of tooth decay, or gum disease. Once your dentist is happy with the health of your teeth and gums, then they can put together an Invisalign treatment plan for you. To do this, they need to carry out a three-dimensional scan of your mouth. This will show a before and after picture of how Invisalign can transform your teeth. This picture is used to calculate the number of aligners you need, and the dentist will be able to design the aligners with accuracy and precision to help you achieve the exact results. You should be able to begin within a few weeks. You will need to visit the dentist for your initial appointment. You may require small attachments to be placed onto the surface of your teeth. Some patients have Invisalign attachments on all of their teeth, whereas other patients only need a few.

Invisalign attachments allow the aligners to grip your teeth providing better movement. The attachments are also invisible and will eventually disappear as a result of wear and tear. Each aligner is worn for two weeks and then you move onto the next liner in the series, until you have completed the process. With the last set of aligners, you can also whiten your teeth by inserting the whitening gel into your aligners. This will transform your smile completely. Speak to your dentist today to find out more about Invisalign and the advantages of straightening your teeth with Invisalign. If you have been avoiding orthodontic treatment, then this could be the ideal solution for you.

Disclaimer

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Vending machines London are a convenient method of buying food and drink and always seem to appear when you are hungry or in a rush and do not have time for a proper meal. Food dispensing machines are affordable and time efficient. You do not have to walk around a shop to find what you are looking for, rather you can stand in one place and purchase a selection of items very quickly. The products are brightly coloured and attractive and they are easy to eat whilst walking around or at your desk. This is why when people are in a rush they prefer to purchase a quick snack and drink from a vending machine than to stop and select a sandwich or healthier option from a nearby shop or similar.

Most vending machines function 24 hours a day as they are unmanned and are available in most public places here in the UK. Statistics show that there are more than half a million vending machines which means if you are looking for one it won’t take you long to find. The problem is that traditional vending machines are loaded with chocolate bars, crisps and fizzy drinks. These are detrimental to your health. Vending machines are accessible to customers of all ages including young children, teenagers, adults and the elderly. These machines can be found in schools and colleges, hospitals and workplaces, which means they are accessed by all groups of the population. The products found in vending machines may not be suitable for all these people and unfortunately with traditional vending machines you will not know the nutritional information, allergy information or the number of calories that the products contain until you have made your purchase. Most often these types of food and drink are high in calories and low in nutrients. They promote weight gain and obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, digestive issues, tooth decay and tooth loss and even different types of cancer.

Obesity in England

 Obesity is a major issue here in England. It affects all age groups including young children and teenagers. Statistics from the health survey for England found that 25% of adults in England are obese whilst a further 40% are overweight. These figures have risen significantly in the last 30 years. The main cause of obesity is having a high calorie diet from fatty and sugary foods. What is frightening is that obesity can result in almost 60 known chronic diseases and is responsible for approximately 30,000 deaths a year. By reducing the availability and accessibility of unhealthy food and drinks, obesity levels can be reduced, there will be fewer obesity-related deaths and people can enjoy better health and wellbeing as well as a better quality of life.

Replacing traditional vending machines

Traditional vending machines need to be replaced with healthy vending machines. If you have a traditional vending machine or you are in charge of a traditional vending machine then you need to find out about replacing it as soon as possible with a contemporary machine dispensing proper nourishment. If you do not have a vending machine in your venue, but you have a metre square of space and a working plug point then you need to find out about installing a healthy vending machine to provide the people around you with better food options that will encourage them to make preferable choices, enjoy healthy eating and promote good health and wellbeing. Most people turn to a vending machine when they are in a rush or they do not have time for a real meal. If they are presented with a healthy vending machine that is loaded with delicious, nutritious snacks then they will be encouraged to make better food choices. If they are presented with a traditional vending machine full of chocolate bars, crisps and fizzy drinks, that is what they will eat. Healthy vending machines not only promote better health and wellbeing, but they can cater for different types of allergies and dietary requirements. They offer a wide selection of delicious alternatives to chocolate bars, crisps and unhealthy drinks. This includes nutritious alternatives to popular desserts, baked vegetable crisps as an alternative to ordinary salty crisps, fruit juices and milk drinks rather than fizzy drinks. Healthy vending machines also have light meal options, for example breakfast options, noodles, soups and salads. They are smart vending machines which means that you can find out about each product before you make your purchase and the machines themselves are user-friendly and look attractive in the space.

 

Find out more about getting a healthy vending machine for your venue and providing better food options for the people around you without delay.

The popularity of cosmetic dentistry has been steadily increasing in Australia thanks to the advances in dental technology and the range of treatments available now. For the last 4 to 5 years, enquiries specific to cosmetic dental treatment have been increasing by approximately 40% each year. Celebrities and social media influences flash their beautiful smiles across the screen, and a recent study found that ‘#veneers’ attracted over 3.9 billion views on TikTok alone. This shows that social media has a huge role to play in building interest in cosmetic dentistry as more and more people want to smile like their favourite stars.

Starting cosmetic dental treatment

If you are thinking about having cosmetic dental treatment, visit your dentist for an examination of your teeth and gums to ensure that they are clean, healthy and free of decay or disease. If you have underlying dental conditions, then cosmetic dental treatment may not be safe straight away; instead, you will have to undergo dental treatment to address your issues and then think about improving the appearance of your teeth.

Factors affecting the appearance of your teeth

Many different factors can affect the appearance of your teeth, one of the most common being stains. Stains can be of two different types: extrinsic stains, which are the most common type, and intrinsic stains, which affect the internal structures of the teeth and are less common and more difficult to treat. Extrinsic stains occur as a result of poor dental hygiene, missed dental checkups, poor lifestyle choices, such as smoking and excessive drinking, and poor dietary choices, such as increased sugary snacks, fizzy drinks and pigmented food, for example, curries and tomato-based sauces. Extrinsic stains can be removed by teeth whitening, but intrinsic stains are different; they affect the dentin, which means they cannot be removed and have to be disguised. To disguise intrinsic stains and combat stubborn extrinsic stains, find out about veneers Gordon from your dentist.

Veneers

Veneers are porcelain shells that can be attached to the front surface of teeth to disguise any imperfections, including teeth stains. Veneers are ideally matched to the white of your eyes to create the right balance and prevent them from looking fake. Veneers can also be used for other aesthetic purposes, such as to improve the appearance and alignment of misshapen teeth. Depending on your preferences, veneers can be used to make teeth longer or wider or fill gaps between teeth to create a uniform smile.

The veneering process is minimally invasive, which is why veneers are a popular choice of cosmetic dental treatment amongst dentists and patients alike. You can achieve stunning aesthetic results with little or no preparation of your natural teeth. Your natural teeth remain intact, with only a thin layer of enamel removed to fit the veneer securely in place. Your natural teeth remain protected underneath the veneers, safe from further external stresses; this reduces the wear and tear of your natural teeth and strengthens chipped or cracked natural teeth.

The entire process takes two or three weeks, depending on how long it takes to manufacture your veneers and whether or not you have any dental health issues that need to be addressed beforehand. Applying the veneers takes approximately one to two hours, again depending on how many veneers you need. Once in place, the veneers can last up to 20 years, depending on how well you look after them. After a while, your veneers will feel like your natural dentition, and although you may have to avoid certain hard foods, you should be able to continue as normal. You must maintain excellent dental hygiene with veneers as you would with your natural teeth because your natural teeth are still likely to develop cavities or tooth decay if you do not look after them properly.

Speak to your dentist today and find out more about veneers and other types of cosmetic dental treatments available to improve the appearance of your smile. Your smile plays a great role in your self-confidence, and by addressing your dental aesthetic issues, you can bring positivity into your life. By smiling more happily and confidently, you will improve your mental health and well-being and bring positivity to those around you. Find out more about cosmetic dental treatment and start enjoying the benefits of a smile makeover.

Disclaimer

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

In the quest for youthful and rejuvenated skin, many individuals are turning to non-invasive facial aesthetic treatments. These procedures have gained immense popularity for their ability to combat the signs of ageing without the need for surgery. While you may think that a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon is your best bet for these treatments, you might be surprised to learn that a dentist in Tunbridge Wells can be your ideal choice.

The expert in facial anatomy

One of the primary reasons why a dentist is well-suited for facial aesthetic treatments is their deep understanding of facial anatomy. Dentists spend years studying the intricate structures of the face, including muscles, nerves, and bone structure. This in-depth knowledge is invaluable when performing delicate procedures like dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle injections, as it ensures precise and safe treatment. Understanding the underlying facial anatomy is essential to achieve the desired aesthetic outcome while avoiding potential complications. Dentists are uniquely positioned to provide this level of expertise, as they are intimately familiar with the facial structures that can impact the results of these treatments.

Accustomed to delicate procedures

Dentists are no strangers to performing delicate and intricate procedures within the oral cavity. From tooth extractions to gum surgeries, they have honed their dexterity and precision over years of practice. These skills seamlessly translate to the administration of facial aesthetic treatments. Typically, dentists offer facial aesthetic treatments such as dermal fillers and anti wrinkle injections. The delicate nature of dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle injections calls for a steady hand and a keen eye for detail. Dentists are well-versed in managing fine instruments and ensuring patient comfort during procedures. Their experience in these areas makes them a reliable choice for individuals seeking safe and effective facial rejuvenation treatments.

High standards of cleanliness

Dental practices adhere to some of the highest standards of cleanliness and infection control in the medical field. This commitment to hygiene is a significant advantage when it comes to facial aesthetic treatments. Patients can rest assured that the environment in which these treatments are performed is clean, sterile, and rigorously maintained. The use of sterile instruments, disposable materials, and stringent infection control protocols ensures that the risk of complications or infections is minimised. Dentists are accustomed to maintaining these high standards, providing an added layer of safety for patients seeking facial aesthetic treatments.

Types of facial aesthetic treatments

Dermal fillers

Dermal fillers are injectable substances that are used to add volume and fullness to various areas of the face, effectively reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. These fillers typically consist of hyaluronic acid gels. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body and the gels are made from non-animal sources and are FDA approved. The procedure involves injecting the filler into specific areas to restore lost volume and create a smoother, more youthful appearance. The treatment time for dermal fillers is relatively quick, typically taking around 15 to 30 minutes per session. Patients can return to their daily activities immediately after treatment, making it a convenient option for those with busy schedules.

2. Anti-wrinkle injections (Botulinum Toxin Type A)

Anti-wrinkle injections, commonly known by the brand name Botox, contain botulinum toxin type A, which temporarily relaxes the muscles responsible for causing wrinkles and lines on the face. By doing so, these injections smooth out existing wrinkles and prevent the formation of new ones. The administration of anti-wrinkle injections is a swift process, usually taking around 10 to 15 minutes per session. Patients may experience minor discomfort during the injections, but this subsides quickly. The effects of anti-wrinkle injections become noticeable within a few days and can last for three to four months, depending on individual factors.

Longevity of results

The longevity of results for both dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle injections varies from person to person. Factors such as metabolism, lifestyle, and the specific product used can influence how long the effects last. However, on average, dermal fillers can provide instant visible results that last anywhere from six months to two years, with some formulations offering even longer-lasting effects. Anti-wrinkle injections typically maintain their effectiveness for three to four months before gradual muscle movement and the reappearance of wrinkles occur. You should see the results within 4 to 7 days of treatment.

Consultation with a dentist

If you’re considering facial aesthetic treatments, booking a consultation with a dentist is the first step towards achieving your desired results. During this consultation, your dentist will assess your facial anatomy, discuss your goals, and create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.

In conclusion, a dentist’s expertise in facial anatomy, experience with delicate procedures, and commitment to high standards of cleanliness make them an excellent choice for administering facial aesthetic treatments. Dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle injections offer effective alternatives to invasive surgery, and their relatively quick procedures and noticeable results make them attractive options for those seeking a more youthful appearance. To learn more and take the first step towards a rejuvenated look, schedule a consultation with a qualified dentist who specialises in facial aesthetic treatments. Your journey to a more youthful and refreshed appearance starts now!

While oral cancer is not one of the more commonly known forms of cancer, it is still prevalent amongst both men and women. Most people are diagnosed with oral cancer when they are above the age of 60, however it is not unheard of for it to occur in people who are younger. Unlike most cancers which are usually detected by your GP, did you know that oral cancer is mostly detected by your dentist Navan at a simple routine dental appointment, which is why it is absolutely crucial to keep on top of all your dental appointments, making sure to visit your dentist at least twice every year.

What is oral cancer and what causes it?

Oral cancer is also known as mouth cancer. It mainly occurs in the mouth, gums, the upper palate, tongue and the inside of the cheeks – these are the areas that make up the oral cavity. Oral cancer develops due to mutations in the DNA of cells located inside the mouth or on the lip. When the mutation occurs, the DNA continues to cause cells to multiply and divide forming abnormal cells which turn into a tumour. Over time, these can accumulate and migrate to other surrounding regions such as the head, throat and neck.

While the ultimate cause of oral cancer is still unknown, there are many factors which increase your risk of developing the cancer; these include:

  • Using tobacco products such as cigarettes. It is important to avoid chewing on tobacco too as this contributes to developing cancer
  • Prolonged sun exposure to your tongue or lips
  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • The HPV virus which is transmitted sexually
  • A compromised immune system
  • Poor oral hygiene and health

Unfortunately, not enough people are educated on the importance of oral health and hygiene and the implications that come with neglecting your teeth and gums. Did you know that poor oral health has a negative impact on the rest of your body and is actually linked to developing severe health issues such as coronary heart issues, strokes and even cancer?

This is why it is essential that you stick to a strict oral hygiene regimen to ensure that you keep your mouth clean and healthy. In turn, this will decrease your risk of developing oral cancer, and other common dental infections and diseases. It is important to brush your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste twice a day and to rinse out your mouth after each meal with a fluoride rinse to eradicate any food residue that can come into contact with harmful bacteria. It is also imperative to live a healthy lifestyle that is free of tobacco, limited in alcohol consumption and sugars and starches as these factors contribute to poor oral health. But above all, we believe the best way to ensure your mouth remains healthy is by visiting your dentist regularly.

What are the signs and symptoms of oral cancer?

There are several signs to suggest you may have oral cancer, and we recommend that you check for them frequently so you can contact your dentist for confirmation straight away. Common signs of oral cancer include:

  • Sores located on the lip or in the mouth that do not disappear within a week or so
  • White or red patches inside the mouth that do not disappear
  • A noticeably new lump or bump in your mouth
  • Sudden difficulty in swallowing
  • Loose teeth with no other symptoms of gum disease

How can my dentist detect signs of oral cancer?

As mentioned above, it is crucial that you visit your dentist on a regular basis; this does not entail undergoing invasive procedures, but rather for check-ups as it is at these appointments that dentists most commonly detect signs of oral cancer. By visiting your dentist regularly, they will be able to identify early signs of the cancer and refer you for treatment straight away making it easier to treat had they noticed it in its later stages.

If you have flagged to your dentist that you have noticed signs to suggest you may have oral cancer, they will carry out an oral cancer screening which involves looking into your mouth to check for mouth sores or patches and using their fingers to check for lumps or lesions. If your dentist suspects that you are displaying signs of oral cancer, they may also use an oral cancer screening dye which will stain abnormal cells in your mouth blue, making them more apparent for a biopsy to be taken. Furthermore, they can use an oral cancer screening light which will darken the healthy cells in your mouth and make any cancerous cells appear white. Based on their results, your dentist can then refer you to an appropriate healthcare provider who specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of oral cancer.

Conventional metal braces can be extremely unsightly, and the treatment time may feel like it’s taking forever, so it is not surprising that most people prefer not to have metal braces fixed on their teeth for the purpose of straightening them. However this can result in having to live with crooked or uneven teeth which can also be an eyesore, and it can leave you wondering what possible solution there is to fix the dilemma you are in. Fortunately, there is a solution that offers you the same results as braces but without any need to have obvious wires fixed onto your teeth. What is this solution you may ask? It is a cosmetic dental treatment known as Invisalign Clapham, and by the end of this blog you will understand why it has become such a popular treatment amongst adults and teenagers alike!

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign are clear, removable braces composed of medical grade BPA plastic; they are designed to be virtually invisible as their name suggests, making them a more discreet alternative to conventional braces. They work like metal braces by applying pressure to your teeth causing them to gradually move and align together. Unlike metallic braces, with Invisalign treatment, your dentist assigns you a number of aligners or “trays” which are made bespoke for your teeth and for the manner in which the dentist anticipates your teeth to progress over the course of the treatment. Each tray should be worn for a set number of weeks before changing to the next set of trays and this should be repeated until your teeth are levelled at the end of your treatment.

Why should I get Invisalign?

Invisalign has become increasingly popular in recent years; with the rise of social media influence and the number of benefits that comes with getting Invisalign, it comes as no surprise that more and more people are opting for Invisalign over traditional braces. There are numerous benefits to having Invisalign, these include but are not limited to:

  • Transparency – Invisalign aligners are made from virtually invisible plastic, meaning they look clear when they are worn, giving you a more subtle look
  • Removable – Invisalign aligners can be easily removed, which makes it easier to eat food without food getting stuck in your teeth
  • Better oral hygiene – because your Invisalign aligners are easily removable, it is significantly easier to keep up a good oral hygiene routine as you are able to brush and floss your teeth properly with no metal obstructions
  • Boost in confidence – uneven teeth can make you self-conscious, so with Invisalign aligners you can achieve a more cohesive and appealing look thereby boosting your confidence

What problems does Invisalign help to treat?

Invisalign is one of the most popular forms of cosmetic dentistry; the treatment aims to solve a number of dental issues, these include:

  • crooked or uneven teeth
  • overbites
  • gaps between the teeth
  • underbites
  • crowded teeth
  • crossbites
  • rotated teeth

If you feel as though you may be suffering with any of the above-mentioned issues, you may benefit from getting Invisalign, so it is worth contacting your dentist for a consultation.

What is the process of getting Invisalign?

The Invisalign process is a lot more straightforward compared to getting metal braces fitted or any other teeth straightening procedure, as you do not require any surgery.

When you get Invisalign, your dentist will first have to carry out a physical examination of your teeth to make sure your smile can benefit from the treatment. They will also have to take a number of 3D scans of your teeth and mouth so that they can produce a set of custom-made aligners in the lab by visualising how the alignment of your teeth will progress and change over the course of treatment. Once the aligners arrive from the lab, your dentist will call you in for a fitting where any minor changes will be made to your aligners to ensure they fit appropriately. You are expected to wear your aligners every day for a minimum of twenty two hours a day to ensure maximum results. The aligners are changed every two to eight when there is a shift in the position of your teeth, until your treatment is complete and your teeth have straightened to the desired effect.

How soon can I see results?

If worn properly, the outcome of wearing your aligners can be felt in the first three months of the treatment and can be seen within six. The length of the treatment differs for each individual, with the average treatment time being twelve months.