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Showing posts from August, 2025

👶🦷 Why Pulpectomy is Important for Children’s Dental Health

Many parents believe that milk teeth don’t matter since they eventually fall out. But the truth is, untreated dental infections in baby teeth can cause pain, damage permanent teeth, and affect a child’s overall health. That’s where pulpectomy plays a vital role. 🔎 What is a Pulpectomy? A pulpectomy is a dental procedure (similar to a root canal for adults) where the infected pulp inside a baby tooth is removed, the canals are cleaned, disinfected, and then sealed with safe materials. It is a child-friendly treatment to save the tooth instead of removing it. ✅ Why Pulpectomy is Important 1. Saves the Baby Tooth Milk teeth act as natural “space maintainers” for permanent teeth. Losing them early can cause crowding and misalignment later. 2. Prevents Spread of Infection Infections from untreated pulp can spread to gums, bone, or even affect the permanent tooth underneath. Pulpectomy stops this progression. 3. Relieves Pain Children with pulp infections often suffer from severe toothache,...

No More Brushing Battles: How to Make Kids Love Brushing

Brushing your child’s teeth can often feel like a daily battle — the wriggling, the crying, and sometimes outright refusal. But good oral habits formed early in life set the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles. The good news? Brushing doesn’t have to be a struggle. With a few simple tricks, you can turn brushing time into bonding time. 1. Make It Fun 🎵 Children love play, so why not bring fun into brushing? Add songs, rhymes, or short stories while they brush. Many parents even use two-minute brushing songs or timers that keep kids engaged and laughing while they clean their teeth. 2. Give Them Choices 🪥 Kids feel empowered when they have a say. Let your child pick their own toothbrush — whether it’s a bright color, their favorite cartoon character, or even one that lights up. A fun toothbrush makes brushing feel less like a chore and more like an adventure. 3. Brush Together 👨‍👩‍👧 Children love to imitate parents. When you brush your teeth alongside your child, it becomes a gr...

When Do Baby’s First Teeth Appear?

  Watching your baby grow is a journey filled with exciting milestones—from the first smile to the first step. One of the most eagerly awaited moments for parents is the appearance of the first baby tooth. But when exactly does it happen, and what should you expect? Timeline of First Baby Teeth Average age: Most babies get their first tooth between 6 to 10 months of age. Earliest: Some infants may start as early as 4 months. Latest: Others may not show their first tooth until around 12 months or later. Both are usually normal. The very first tooth to appear is usually a lower central incisor (the two bottom front teeth). These are followed by the upper central incisors, and gradually the rest appear. Complete Baby Teeth Eruption Chart By around age 3 years, most children will have a full set of 20 primary teeth: 1. 6–10 months – Lower central incisors 2. 8–12 months – Upper central incisors 3. 9–13 months – Upper lateral incisors 4. 10–16 months – Lower lateral incisors 5. 13–19 mo...

🍪☕ Biscuits – The Hidden Tooth Enemy You Didn’t Expect

Biscuits are a favorite tea-time snack for millions. They seem light, harmless, and even comforting — but did you know that biscuits can secretly damage your teeth? At Shree Jayam Oral & Dental Clinic, Ambattur, we often see patients surprised to learn how much harm this “innocent” snack can cause. 🔎 Why Are Biscuits Harmful to Teeth? 1. Sticky Starch Turns Into Sugar When you chew biscuits, they break down into a sticky paste that clings to your teeth. This paste is rich in starch, which quickly converts into sugar. 2. Perfect Feast for Bacteria The sugar feeds the bacteria in your mouth. These bacteria produce acid as a by-product. 3. Acid Attack on Enamel The acid formed attacks your tooth enamel — the strong outer layer of your teeth. Over time, this weakens the enamel and makes teeth prone to cavities and sensitivity. 4. Long-Lasting Damage Unlike chocolates or sweets that wash away quickly, biscuits stick to teeth for a longer time, giving bacteria more opportunity to produc...

🍼 Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: What Every Parent Must Know

  Introduction As parents, we all want to protect our child’s smile. But one common bedtime habit—giving a bottle of milk or juice—can silently damage those tiny teeth. This condition is called Baby Bottle Tooth Decay, and it can lead to pain, infections, and even crooked permanent teeth later in life. What is Baby Bottle Tooth Decay? Baby Bottle Tooth Decay happens when sugary liquids (milk, formula, juice) cling to a child’s teeth for long periods, especially overnight. Bacteria in the mouth turn these sugars into acids that attack the enamel, leading to cavities in baby teeth. Why is it Dangerous? Pain & Discomfort – Cavities cause severe toothache, even in toddlers. Early Tooth Loss – Losing baby teeth too soon affects chewing and speech. Crooked Permanent Teeth – Damaged baby teeth can misguide adult teeth as they erupt. How Can Parents Prevent It? ✅ Only give water at bedtime – avoid milk or juice bottles in bed. ✅ Brush teeth twice daily – start as soon as the first toot...

What Happens to Your Teeth 20 Minutes After Eating Sugar?

We all love a sweet bite. But what happens in your mouth right after that chocolate, cake, or sweet tea is the real story. Within minutes, your smile faces an “acid attack” that can weaken enamel and raise cavity risk. Here’s the simple timeline—exactly like your posters. 1) The First Bite: Sugar Enters the Scene That satisfying bite coats your teeth with sugary, sticky residue. Anything that clings—chocolate, cookies, sweets, sweetened drinks—stays on enamel longer and becomes food for mouth bacteria. 2) Sugar Sticks to Enamel Sugar granules and starches adhere to the tooth surface, especially in grooves and between teeth. This sticky layer is the perfect base for plaque to form. 3) Bacteria Feast Natural bacteria in your mouth love simple sugars. As they feed on sugar, they rapidly multiply and begin producing acids as a by-product. 4) Acid Attack Begins Those acids start dissolving minerals from your enamel (demineralisation). You won’t feel it, but the surface gets softer and more ...

Surprising Foods That Can Harm Your Teeth (Even If They’re “Healthy”!) 🦷

When it comes to your teeth, not all “healthy” foods are as safe as they seem. Some everyday favourites can quietly damage your enamel, feed harmful bacteria, or increase your risk of decay — even while they benefit the rest of your body. At Shree Jayam Oral and Dental Clinic, Ambattur, we want you to enjoy your favourite foods and protect your smile. Let’s uncover some surprising culprits. 1️⃣ Apples – Nature’s Sweet Acid Apples are packed with vitamins and fiber, but they’re also acidic and full of natural sugars. This combo can temporarily soften enamel, making it more vulnerable to erosion. Pro tip: Eat apples with meals and rinse your mouth afterward. 2️⃣ Dried Fruits – Sticky Sugar Traps Raisins, dates, and figs cling to teeth and feed plaque-causing bacteria. Their stickiness means sugar stays on your enamel longer. Pro tip: Enjoy them in moderation and floss soon after. 3️⃣ Flavored Yogurt – Sugar in Disguise Many fruit yogurts have more sugar than a can of soda! While calcium ...

Your Smile Ages Too — 5 Ways to Keep It Young Forever

When we talk about aging, most people think about wrinkles and grey hair. But did you know your smile can reveal your age even faster? Teeth naturally change over time — enamel wears down, gums recede, and discoloration sets in. The good news? With the right care and treatments, you can keep your smile looking fresh, youthful, and radiant for years to come. Here are five dentist-approved tips to turn back the clock on your smile. 1. Fight Stains Before They Stick ☕ Tea, coffee, wine, and tobacco are the top culprits for tooth stains. Over time, these pigments settle deep into the enamel, dulling your smile. Tip: Rinse your mouth with water after consuming stain-causing foods and drinks. For a deeper clean, schedule professional teeth cleaning at least twice a year. 2. Protect Enamel from Wear & Tear 🍋 Acidic foods, sodas, and aggressive brushing can thin the enamel — the protective layer of your teeth. Once it’s gone, it won’t grow back. Tip: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, fluori...

Night-time Eating Habits & Dental Health: Why Your Bedtime Snack Matters

When it comes to oral health, most people know that brushing and flossing are important. But did you know your night-time eating habits can have a big impact on your teeth? The last thing you eat or drink before going to bed could either protect your smile — or silently harm it. Why Night-time Is Risky for Your Teeth While you sleep, your saliva production slows down. Saliva helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids in your mouth. Less saliva means bacteria can work undisturbed for hours, producing acids that damage tooth enamel. If you go to bed after eating sugary or starchy foods without brushing, you’re giving bacteria an overnight feast. Common Bedtime Mistakes 1. Sugary Snacks – Cookies, candy, or even sweetened drinks before bed feed harmful bacteria. 2. Skipping Brushing – Even healthy snacks can leave residue that turns into plaque overnight. 3. Sipping on Sweet Beverages – Juices, sodas, or flavored milk before sleep can cause acid attacks on enamel. Tooth-Friendly ...

"Braces Aren’t Just for Looks – The Real Power of Orthodontic Treatment!"

When most people think of braces or aligners, they imagine a picture-perfect smile. But orthodontic treatment is not just about aesthetics – it plays a key role in maintaining your oral health. Why Orthodontics? Misaligned teeth can lead to: Difficulty in cleaning between teeth Gum problems due to plaque accumulation Jaw pain and TMJ issues Uneven tooth wear or damage Speech difficulties Early intervention = Long-term benefit Treating orthodontic issues at the right age helps prevent complicated treatments later. Whether it's traditional braces or clear aligners, your orthodontist creates a custom plan for your smile and bite. Bonus: A confident smile boosts your social confidence and mental well-being! Visit Shree Jayam Oral & Dental Clinic Smile straight, smile right—with expert care tailored to you. 📍 21/2, Devarajulu Street, Ambattur, Chennai - 600053 📞 9150990462 / 7550090462

🦷 Myth: "Braces are only for kids and teens!"

👊 Busted! 🎯 Fact: Braces work for adults too! Age is never a barrier to a beautiful smile. Whether you're 15 or 50, orthodontic treatment can align your teeth and improve your bite. ✅ Adult braces are now more comfortable and less visible — thanks to clear braces and aligners! 🦷 Shree Jayam Oral and Dental Clinic 📍 21/2, Devarajulu Street, Ambattur, Chennai - 600053 📞 9150990462 | 7550090462

🦷 Does a PFM Crown Interfere with an MRI Scan? Myth or Fact?

Introduction Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a powerful diagnostic tool that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of internal organs and tissues. But if you have dental restorations—especially PFM (Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal) crowns—you might wonder: Will it interfere with my MRI scan? Let’s break the myth and find the facts! Understanding PFM Crowns A PFM crown has a metal base covered with tooth-colored porcelain. It’s commonly used in restorative dentistry because of its durability and aesthetics. But the metal content can raise concerns when undergoing scans like MRI. Myth or Fact? ✅ FACT: Most PFM crowns do NOT significantly interfere with MRI scans. While it’s true that the metal in PFM crowns can sometimes cause minor artifacts (distortions) in MRI images, especially of the head and neck, they do not pose any safety risk or contraindication for getting an MRI. What You Should Know 🧲 MRI Safety: Most dental materials, including PFM crowns, are MRI-saf...

🦷 Dental Sealants – Protection for Cavity-Prone Teeth

 😁 Want to protect your child’s teeth from cavities? Hi, today we’re talking about a simple, painless treatment that can help kids and teens avoid tooth decay — dental sealants! 🛡️ What Are Dental Sealants? Sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars), where most cavities occur. They block out food and bacteria, making it easier to keep teeth clean. 🦠 Why Do Kids Need Sealants? Molars have deep grooves that trap food and germs Even with brushing, it's hard to clean every corner Sealants help prevent cavities before they start ⏳ When Should Sealants Be Applied? Around age 6 (when first molars come in) Again around age 12 (when second molars erupt) Teenagers and adults can also benefit if they have deep grooves or are cavity-prone ✅ Benefits of Sealants Painless and quick procedure Cost-effective cavity prevention Lasts several years with good oral care No drilling or anesthesia needed 🏥 Protect Your Child’s Smile Today! Ask us...

🍬 One Sugar Habit That’s Secretly Damaging Your Smile

Do you enjoy sipping sugary drinks like cola, juice, or energy drinks throughout the day? That one sweet habit could be silently harming your teeth — more than you realize. 😱 What’s the Danger? Most people think sugar is the villain. But the real culprit is how often and how long sugar sits on your teeth. When you sip sugary beverages slowly or frequently, your teeth are constantly bathed in acid — a result of bacteria breaking down the sugar. This weakens your enamel and leads to: Cavities Sensitivity Yellowing Gum irritation 🧪 The Science Behind It Each sip restarts an acid attack that can last up to 20 minutes. So if you’re sipping a cola for 1 hour? That’s multiple acid attacks — giving bacteria the perfect opportunity to grow. ✅ How to Protect Your Smile Here are 3 smart habits to beat the damage: 1. Finish sugary drinks quickly — don't sip them over time. 2. Rinse your mouth with plain water after any sweet beverage. 3. Limit your intake of sugary or acidic drinks. Try usin...

About the doctor

About Dr. R.J. Vijayashree, M.D.S. Founder & Chief Dental Surgeon – Shree Jayam Oral and Dental Clinic, Ambattur, Chennai Dr. R.J. Vijayashree is a highly accomplished Dental Surgeon and Oral Pathologist with over 14 years of clinical and academic experience. She founded Shree Jayam Oral and Dental Clinic with a clear vision: to offer affordable, hygienic, and personalized dental care without compromising on quality or compassion. What began as a sincere pursuit of excellence in dentistry has grown into a trusted clinic known for ethical practice, transparency, and comprehensive dental solutions. 🎓 Academic Excellence & Awards University First Rank in M.D.S. with the Dr. B. Sivapathasundharam Gold Medal – a prestigious recognition of academic distinction. Recipient of the IDA Molaris Award twice for Best Academician . Honoured with the Best Paper Award at Microsummit 2024 , an International research conference. Recognized with multiple research contribution awa...

Disclaimer

Medical & Health Information Disclaimer The information provided on this website/blog, including all text, graphics, images, videos, and other content, is for informational and educational purposes only . It is not intended as a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment . Always seek the advice of a qualified dental professional, such as Dr. R.J. Vijayashree M.D.S. , or your own dentist regarding any questions you may have about a dental condition or treatment. No Doctor-Patient Relationship Use of this site or communication through it (including comments, messages, or appointment forms) does not establish a doctor-patient relationship . A doctor-patient relationship is only formed after a physical consultation and clinical evaluation at Shree Jayam Oral and Dental Clinic. Accuracy of Information While we strive to ensure the content is current and accurate, Shree Jayam Oral and Dental Clinic and Dr. R.J. Vijayashree make no representations or war...

"Beyond Crooked Teeth: Common Orthodontic Issues You Didn't Know You Had"

“Orthodontic Problems Go Beyond Misalignment – Here’s What Patients Often Complain About” When people think of orthodontic treatment, the first thing that comes to mind is crooked teeth. But at Shree Jayam Oral and Dental Clinic, we see that orthodontic issues go far beyond simple malalignment. Patients frequently come in with less obvious, but equally important concerns. Let’s explore what these are—and how braces, aligners, or other orthodontic tools can help. 🤐 1. Speech Problems Did you know that malocclusion (improper bite) can affect how you pronounce certain sounds? Lisping or difficulty with letters like "S" and "T" can sometimes be improved with orthodontic treatment, especially in growing children. 😫 2. Jaw Pain or Clicking (TMJ Disorders) A misaligned bite can strain the jaw joint (TMJ), leading to: Clicking or popping sounds Headaches Jaw fatigue Pain near the ears or temples Orthodontic treatment can relieve the pressure and improve jaw function. 😮‍...

🦷 Baby Bottle Tooth Decay – Protect Your Child’s Smile Early!

 👶 Did you know babies can get tooth decay too? Hi, today we’re talking about Baby Bottle Tooth Decay — a common but preventable problem that affects infants and toddlers. 🍼 What Is Baby Bottle Tooth Decay? It’s tooth decay that happens in infants and young children, especially when sweetened liquids like milk, formula, or juice stay in the mouth for too long — especially at bedtime. The sugars feed bacteria in the mouth, which produce acid and damage the baby teeth. 🚫 Common Mistakes That Lead to It Sending baby to sleep with a bottle Frequent or prolonged bottle feeding Dipping pacifiers in honey or sugar Not cleaning baby’s gums/teeth ✅ Toothy’s Tips for Parents 🍼 Never let your baby sleep with a bottle 🪥 Start cleaning gums with a soft cloth before teeth appear 👶 Begin brushing with a soft baby toothbrush once teeth come in 🧃 Avoid sugary drinks — give only water at bedtime 🦷 First dental visit by age 1 🏥 Early Care = Lifelong Smiles We offer gentle, caring first denta...

Say Goodbye to Bad Breath! (Causes, Myths & Simple Fixes)

😮‍💨 Embarrassed by bad breath? You’re not alone — and it can be treated! Hi,  I’m talking about bad breath (also known as halitosis) — what causes it, how to fix it, and when it could be a sign of something more serious. ❓ What Causes Bad Breath? 1. Poor oral hygiene — leftover food, plaque, and bacteria 2. Dry mouth — less saliva = more bacteria 3. Tongue coating — the tongue traps odor-causing bacteria 4. Food choices — garlic, onions, coffee, and spicy food 5. Smoking or tobacco use 6. Dental issues — gum disease, cavities, infected teeth 7. Medical conditions — diabetes, tonsil stones, sinus infections, stomach issues 🚫 Common Myths ❌ Mouthwash alone cures bad breath ❌ If you can’t smell your own breath, it must be fine ❌ Brushing teeth is enough ✅ Toothy’s Tips to Stay Fresh Brush twice daily AND clean your tongue Floss once a day to remove trapped food Stay hydrated — drink lots of water Chew sugar-free gum to boost saliva Avoid smoking Get regular dental checkups 🦷 Pro T...

What Are Cavities and How to Prevent Them?

 🍭 Got a sweet tooth? You might have a cavity too! Hi again! I’m here from Shree Jayam Oral and Dental Clinic, Ambattur, to help you understand cavities — what causes them, what they do to your teeth, and how to keep them away! ❓ What Is a Cavity? A cavity is a small hole in your tooth caused by tooth decay. It starts when sticky plaque builds up and bacteria feed on sugar, producing acid that slowly eats away the enamel (outer layer of your tooth). ⚠️ Signs You Might Have a Cavity Toothache or spontaneous pain Sensitivity to sweets, cold, or heat Visible holes or pits in the teeth Brown, black, or white staining Pain when chewing Don’t wait until it hurts — many cavities don’t cause pain until they are deep. 🍬 What Causes Cavities? It’s a mix of 4 factors! 1. 🦠 Plaque bacteria 2. 🍭 Sugar and acidic foods 3. 😴 Poor brushing and flossing 4. ⏳ Skipping regular dental checkups 🪥 How to Prevent Cavities ✅ Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste ✅ Floss daily ✅ Reduce sugary an...