Dental Crowns: Purpose, Types, and Procedure

Our teeth can get damaged over time. It happens due to various reasons such as an injury, tooth decay, or over time. This results in our teeth losing their size or shape. One of the ways to restore your teeth to their former glory is by getting dental crowns. They are teeth-shaped caps which are placed over your teeth as the name suggests.

Dental crowns help restore the appearance, strength, size, and shape of your teeth. They are cemented into place and cover a visible portion of your teeth. According to My Dentist San Francisco’s website, a crown may be necessary if you have a broken tooth, a very large filling with additional decay, a worn down tooth, a root canal treated tooth, or a cracked tooth

Dental Crowns Purposes

Dental crowns are required for various reasons as mentioned below.

• To cover teeth which are treated with a root canal

• To cover dental implants

• To cover severely discolored or misshaped teeth

• To hold dental bridges in place

• To cover and support teeth with a large filling and which do not have much tooth remaining

• To restore broken teeth or severely worn out teeth

• To protect weak teeth from breaking or keeping them together

  

Dental Crowns Types

Now that you know about the reasons why people get dental crowns, let’s take a look at the different types of dental crowns that are commonly available.

1. Metal Crowns

When it comes to making dental crowns, several metals can be used such as chromium, nickel, palladium, and gold. Metal crowns have a much harder time breaking or chipping. This makes them long-lasting. Besides, only a small amount of the tooth needs to be removed when opting for metal crowns. They also withstand constant chewing and biting. However, their metallic colour is a drawback. 

2. Porcelain-Fused-Metal Crowns

If you are looking for dental crowns that match the colour of your teeth, porcelain-fused-metal crowns are as good as things get. They boast a more natural look. But, it is important to keep in mind that the metal under the porcelain cap can show sometimes. There is also a possibility of the porcelain portion breaking or chipping off. These crowns are suitable for back or front teeth.

3. Resin Crowns

For those of you who are looking for a more affordable option, resin crowns might be the perfect option. They tend to be more affordable. However, these crowns are more likely to break and wear down over time as compared to other dental crown types.

4. All-Porcelain or All-Ceramic

When it comes to the best natural look, all-porcelain and all-ceramic dental crowns do not disappoint in the very least. They are the perfect option for those of you who have experienced metal allergies. However, you should not expect them to be as strong as porcelain-fused-metal crowns. Hence, more care is required.

5. Pressed Ceramic

Pressed ceramic crowns have a hard inner core. The metal liner is replaced by pressed ceramic dental crowns which are commonly used in all-ceramic crowns. Porcelain is used to cap pressed ceramic crowns. These crowns are more long-lasting and offer the best natural color match.

Dental Crowns Procedure

When getting dental crowns, you normally need to visit the dentist twice. However, it is possible to get a dental crown made during the first visit. Let’s take a look at the procedure.

The First Visit

The tooth which requires a crown is examined and prepared during the initial visit. X-rays of the tooth also need to be taken as well as of the bone around it. A root canal treatment might also be required before starting the dental crown procedure due to the following reasons.

• Injury to the pulp

• Risk of infection

• Tooth decay

The tooth that will receive the crown has to be filed down from the sides and top. It will help leave some space for the crown to be fitted. The amount of tooth which would get filed depends on the type of crown one select. For instance, if you opt for metal dental crowns, not much tooth would be removed as they are thinner. A paste or putty would be used after the tooth has been reshaped to make an impression of the tooth that will get a crown. Then, the impressions would be sent to the dental laboratory where the crown would be made and delivered to the dentist within two to three weeks. A temporary crown would be made during the first visit to cover and protect the tooth that will get a crown.

The Second Visit

The permanent crown would be placed on your tooth during the second visit. To do so, the temporary crown will be first removed and a new crown will be permanently cemented after using a local anesthetic to numb the tooth.

The Interesting World of Skirting Boards In The UK

Skirting boards are typically overlooked when planning interior, renovating, or even when buying a home. The truth of the matter is, that they actually provide not only protection to walls but that they also add an additional design flair to any room. 

These wooden or vinyl features are actually much more interesting than you might think. In this article, we will look at the interesting world of skirting boards in the United Kingdom. 

What is a Skirting Board? 

Also known as a mopboard, baseboard, skirting, base molding, or floor molding, the skirting board is a vinyl or wooden feature that covers the part of the wall closest to the floor. It can be cut into different lengths to fit the room’s layout and are typically screwed, nailed, or glued to the wall. 

First designed in the Victorian era as the elite’s decorative pieces for their homes. Because the area where the floor and the wall met would usually have bad painting jobs and uneven brick textures, the area would be covered with moldings to create a more luxurious and appealing look. Watch this video to discover more about the history of these underrated pieces: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=75sQvwZ_PIA&feature=emb_logo. 

They are not only made from different materials, but they can also be found in many different designs and molds. Depending on the design you are going for, baseboards can measure up to a height of 1.5 meters high. These higher skirting boards are named wainscots and covers between 1-1.5 meters of the lower part of the wall. 

Characteristically, baseboards cover only up to ankle height (less than 20 centimeters) of the wall.  

Skirting Material 

Materials used for baseboards vary between price, durability, texture, and color. Here is a list of the most typically used materials when manufacturing them: 

• PVC: The most commonly used plastic when manufacturing baseboards is PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride). It is used because it is hard, flexible, and durable.  These designs are typically found in white or other shades of white. Owners do have the option to paint and repaint vinyl models too. They are a popular choice because they can fit any kind of wall, no matter the uneven texture, compared to wood which isn’t as flexible.
  
  Because they are glued to the wall with strong adhesive, they can be difficult to replace and remove. Regardless, Vinyl is durable and can last for a very long time without any maintenance. Furthermore, they are much more affordable than expensive timber types.
  
  

• Wood: Traditionally, wood was used to create different molds in Victorian homes. Today, it’s still a material of choice for many builders and home owners. The type of wood used to create these baseboards are usually softwoods like Pine, Spruce, Cedar, Cypress, and Yew. Hardwoods like Birch, African Blackwood, Maple, Oak, Teak, and Walnut can be bought raw to be stained or lacquered.
  
  Boards made from wood are either sold as one single piece or are finger jointed to create a longer unit. Recently, more home owners have
  
  

• Engineered Wood: Different woods that are engineered and combined like plywood, wood-plastic composite, glue laminated, hardboard, MDF (Medium-density fiberboard), cross-laminated, and OSB are also popular material choices.
  
  

Function

Its main function is to provide protection to the area of the floor where the wall and the floor meets. This area can easily get damaged because of walking, furniture being pushed against it, abrasion, and accidental kicks against it. When left unprotected, the area can easily look unpleasant. Floorboards, carpet, or tiles can lift up and will need to be replaced much more often if there isn’t any skirting protecting that area. 

Furthermore, it can also be used for decorative purposes. Either casing the door or windows, crowning the area between the ceiling and the wall, as well as placed running through the middle of the wall as a chair rail. Check out this illustration for an example of its different decorative molding purposes. 

Different Treatments

To treat the skirting boards in order for them to fit a specific design aesthetic, manufacturers use different treatments. The treatment of the skirting will have an effect on the overall price. Different treatments can include: 

• Oil

• Paint striped

• Thermal 

• Varnish

• Waxing

• Adhesive

• Heat bending

• Wood stain

• Wood preservation, finishing, and drying

• Steam bending

• French polish

Design 

The United Kingdom is known for different design and architectural eras. Derived from these different eras, skirting is usually named according to the era in which it was designed. Periods like the Edwardian and Victorian eras are popularly used in modern designs today. 

There are loads of different wooden and plastic designs available for home owners, interior designers, and builders to choose from. Here is a list of the most popular designs available:

• Chamfered: This design features a subtle rounded middle that is sleek and polished. It remains a go-to design because of its simplicity and clean shape. They are popularly used in the UK.
  
  

• Bullnose: Another very popular design is the bullnose. It features a thick top and a gradual decline to the floor. It’s popular in many modern homes because of its simplicity and adaptability to any design aesthetic.
  
  

• Torus: The Torus is an ornate skirting board that features a half circle design at its top and an angular downward cut to the floor. This design looks great in MDF material, like the ones found at Metres Direct skirting boards.
  
  

• Ogee: Perfect for all classically styled dining rooms, living rooms, and bedrooms, the ogee is an extremely ornate design that can be made from hardwoods, softwoods, and engineered woods. 

Additionally, designers and builders can choose different architrave designs to add an extra touch of design to door and window frames. Just like skirting boards, architraves are made from all kinds of materials and can be customized to fit the shape and size of any room. 

When you are planning to renovate an old room or design a new room’s interior, be sure to add skirting boards to the plan. 

4 Beauty Tips to Try For Better Health

As the holidays approach us, life can feel a bit hectic. It’s hard to find time for self-care when you’re juggling family obligations, your work schedule, and coordinating holiday gifts. Beauty starts with a healthy body, and that means nourishing yourself inside and out.  

Here are four fabulous beauty tips to help you look and feel your best all season long!  

#1 Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize

If you live in a cold climate, you know that winter means dry skin and hair. Give your skin some love, and make moisturizing part of your daily routine. 

For sensitive skin, use gentle, hypoallergenic moisturizers for hydration. If you’re extra dry and in need of deeper hydration, treat yourself to a revitalizing face mask.

Part of an effective skincare routine is exfoliation. Make homemade sugar scrubs or use a pumice stone to remove layers of dead skin. You only need to devote a few minutes a day for glowing, vibrant, skin. 

#2 Turn Down the Heat

Blow drying, straightening, and curling are all highly dehydrating for your hair. If you suffer from a dry scalp and brittle hair, it’s time to revamp your hair-care regimen. 

Here are a few tips for luscious locks all winter long: 

• Take Cooler Showers – Although hot showers are comforting, dousing your hair with hot water is extremely dehydrating. When you wash your hair, turn down the heat a little to nourish your scalp.
  
  

• Go Easy on the Products – Dry shampoos and hairsprays, although incredibly useful, may increase scalp irritation and dryness. Try to use these products in moderation and go au naturel for a change.
  
  

• Use Moisturizing Oils – It might feel counter-intuitive to put oil in your hair, but this is a great way to introduce some moisture into lackluster hair. Jojoba or almond oils are versatile and give hair a healthy shine when massaged into your ends. 

#3 Get Enough Sleep 

Sleep is the secret to radiant beauty and excellent health. When you’re well-rested, your skin will be fresh, your eyes bright, and your demeanor relaxed and focused. 

We know sleep can be hard to come by, especially when your schedule is overloaded. To relax, draw a bath before bed and add soothing lavender essential oil.

For extra comfort and relaxation, take a vegan CBD tincture before bed. CBD reduces anxiety and diminishes aches and pains. This will help you get the restful night’s sleep you need (and deserve) to feel your best. 

#4 Use Natural Makeup 

Instead of using chemical-heavy makeup, opt for natural alternatives. This will give your skin a much-needed break, and add glamour to your everyday style. 

• Mascara – Use natural, chemical-free mascara for striking lashes. 

• Lip Balm – A beeswax-tinted lip balm adds a subtle hint of color to your look.

• Blush – Add a rosy flush to your cheeks with mineral based blush.

• Highlighter – Vegan, cruelty-free highlighter gives you a glow inside and out.

Above all, embrace your natural beauty. Remember, makeup should enhance your natural elegance, and you don’t need to apply layers of makeup to look beautiful. 

Love Your Body

We can’t say it enough—wellness begins with self-love. Drink plenty of water. Meditate. Spend quality time with your family. Reflect on everything that makes you beautiful, as those are the same reasons why you’re unique. 

When you love your body, you love yourself. Incorporate these tips into your beauty routine and remember that it’s okay if everything isn’t perfect. Wellness is a journey, and with a few simple lifestyle changes, you can make the world of difference. 

Tips for a Safe Move During a Pandemic

Moving is always a stressful and overwhelming situation, but moving during a pandemic may take your stress and frustration to a whole new level. Whether you had a planned move or you have to move unexpectedly, as long as it’s done responsibly, moving during a pandemic with the help of moving services Ottawa is a possibility. It is important to take extra precautions and to be as prepared as possible before moving day arrives. Here are a few tips to help ensure your move is as safe and smooth as possible. 

DIY or Hire a Moving Service?

Utilizing the experience of moving services Ottawa will make the process much easier, but doing it yourself may be the safest method. During a pandemic, the fewer people you and your family interact with the less risk there is of spreading the virus. If you are concerned about hiring a full-service moving company, there are ways to utilizing their services while limiting contact. For instance, instead of hiring packing labor, pack everything yourself, and have all items in one room, close to the front door of your current home. This will prevent labors and movers from going in and out and limit contact between you and the movers. The same concept applies when your items are delivered to the new house; just have the movers put as many items in one central location.

Consider Using a Portable Moving Container

If you are concerned about contact with others, consider using a portable moving container. This will allow you to move items from your current house, put them in the moving container, and then the moving service will pick the full container up and transport it to your new home. This will help you to get your items transported without any social contact, which significantly decreases the safety risks and ensures that your items won’t be touched by others. Keep in mind that when you use a moving container, you are responsible for loading and unloading the container and you will need to thoroughly clean the container once it’s empty.

Disinfect Throughout the Day

The pandemic has everyone on edge, so do not feel embarrassed or awkward about taking extra precautions. On moving day, keep hand soap, paper towels, and hand sanitizer available for both you and the movers. Also, be sure to routinely disinfect counters and other frequently touched surfaces throughout the day. As each room is emptied, be sure to wipe surfaces, such as light switches and doorknobs with a disinfectant cleaner. As uncomfortable as it may be, remember to wear a mask and encourage the movers to do the same. 

The most important thing you can do for your safety and the safety of those from the moving company is to postpone the move if anyone in your household has been recently sick or if they are showing signs of the virus. Moving may be important, but remember that the movers that are helping would be exposed as well, so it’s better to be safe and postpone the move than put your family and others at risk of getting sick.

Step-By-Step Guide on What to Do After A Car Accident

Have you or your loved one ever been involved in a car accident, got stranded, and wondered what to do? Car accidents can be traumatizing and cause confusion on what to do or whom to contact.  Statistics show that 20-50 million individuals get injured in car accidents each year. Some of these injuries are major, while others are minor.

Here is a step by step guide on what to do after being in a car accident. 

Go to A Safer Area

If you've been involved in a car crash, ensure your safety first together with that of your passengers.

Get out of the car if you are not severely hurt and identify a safe area where you can stay. Consider calling the police to help you request medical help if you or your passenger are severely injured.  The police will also help you protect the evidence from being tampered with if you are going to make an injury claim with the insurance company.

Check for Injuries

In case you are involved in a car accident, check for injuries before anything else. Some injuries may be physical or even internal, which may be critical. Ensure you visit a doctor after the accident for a checkup to identify the injuries' extent and avoid any complications that may arise from the sustained injuries.  Even when there are no visible injuries on your body, going for a checkup will ensure that any underlying problems are detected.

Visiting a doctor after a car accident is important if you are thinking of filing an injury claim.

Document the Accident

If you are not severely hurt, consider taking pictures of the accident scene, the damages, people involved, and anything else that may be relevant to support your claim. Taking photos immediately after an accident is vital as they show exactly how and what transpired. If you have severe injuries, you can ask for help from a reliable person.

Get Legal Advice

Consult a car accident lawyer who will guide you on the legal steps you will need to take. Before filing your claim, ensure the lawyer is there with you since the insurance company may use the information you provide against you.

A car accident attorney Detroit (or wherever you are) will help you ensure you get compensated fairly for the losses incurred during the accident. This will enable you to sort out any financial struggles/burdens resulting from the accident.  These losses may be in terms of medical bills, lost wages, punitive damages, and decreased earning capacity.

Don't forget to inform your attorney of everything you can remember about the accident that may assist in the compensation negotiations.

Report the Accident

Many insurance providers require the insured to report the accident immediately.  After being involved in an accident, you may tend to relax and think that your insurance company will compensate for the injuries and damages. Ensure you inform them about the accident as soon as possible.

The insurance company will need to have evidence of injury before engaging in any claim compensation negotiations. Check with your insurance provider whether your policy offers any medical benefits. Ensure you cooperate and disclose any information you think will be relevant to the insurer. Avoid giving false information because this can lead to you not being compensated.

Sometimes, car accidents can be unpreventable. After being involved in a car accident, it's crucial to take the above steps. They will protect you from problems like adverse health conditions and a lack of compensation from your insurance company. That way, your financial burdens will be eased. Don't let lack of knowledge lead you to problems that could easily be avoided.