Dental fillings are used to repair a hole or cavity within the tooth. They protect your tooth from additional damage that decay might cause. Patients mostly prefer composite dental fillings because they are specific to natural teeth' tone and shape. They can help safeguard your teeth, inhibit the growth of cavities, and keep the impacted tooth safe for years to come. Indeed, there are numerous advantages to receiving a tooth filling. Here are eight of the best-known. 

1. Fillings Can Last for Years

Depending on the material used, dental fillings can last a long time, often 7-10 years. Fortunately, your dentist can determine whether your filling is old, broken, or needs to be changed. If your teeth are evaluated regularly, your dentist can tell if you need a new filling.

2. It Prevents the Growth of Cavities

Dental fillings have the added benefit of preventing a cavity from developing more significantly. When your dentist cleans out your dental cavity, they remove the bacteria that cause tooth decay, preventing the tooth from forming a larger cavity and giving you the best chance of avoiding further deterioration in that area of the tooth. As a result, you should consider a filling more than just a cavity therapy; it is also important in attempting to prevent future tooth decay. 

3. Enhances the Strength of the Natural Tooth

First, examine the state of your tooth by the time you need a filling: decay will most certainly have grasped it to some level. The material used to restore a tooth will strengthen it once it has been filled. As a result, decay will diminish its inherent strength by eroding the tooth, making it more prone to fracture. 

4. Restores Function Of Broken Teeth

Tooth fillings can also heal fractured teeth or bruxism-induced tooth wear. Depending on the severity of the injury, a filling can be utilized in cosmetic dentistry to repair a tooth and restore it to its normal appearance and function.

Suppose you have deterioration on numerous teeth and need multiple repairs. Don't allow nervousness to keep you from getting the therapy you need. Consult your dentist about the anesthesia. It can be an excellent approach to guarantee you receive all the care you require in as few visits as possible.

5. Dental Fillings Can Improve a Tooth’s Appearance

Tooth troubles are a common source of anxiety for people. Depending on the tooth's decay or injury and the severity of the problem, damage to the front teeth can be extremely humiliating or cause anxiety. This problem can be solved with dental fillings, which fill a hole and improve the appearance of a tooth. Dental fillings can also cover and reshape front teeth, helping you obtain the smile you've always desired. 

6. Protect Your Teeth From Decay

Remember, a cavity indicates dental deterioration. Without proper care, decay can cause a dental cavity to spread, causing further difficulties and potentially infecting the tooth. A dental filling, on the other hand, effectively prevents a cavity from forming. Removing the decay and repairing the tooth prevents food from becoming stuck in and around the cavity, which makes cleaning easier and prevents the decay from spreading.

7. Fillings Can Release Fluoride Into The Tooth

One of the lesser-known advantages of dental fillings is that they may reintroduce fluoride into the tooth. This fluoride release is not always the case and is determined by the individual filling type employed. Fluoride release is an added benefit for tooth restoration and remineralizing decay after filling the tooth. Fluoride can assist to prevent tooth decay by inhibiting bacterial growth. In many cases, a filling will not only directly cure a tooth condition but will also help to strengthen the tooth generally, reducing the likelihood of future difficulties. 

8. Fillings Can Be Preventative

Again, this is dependent on the precise purpose of a dental filling. However, a dental filling might be preventative in other circumstances, reducing the need for larger fillings later. A dental filling can also release fluoride, which inhibits the growth of bacteria and so prevents additional tooth damage. You may require a prophylactic dental filling if your teeth have deep grooves or cracks or are worn or eroded. 

Modern hectic lifestyles, stress, poor nutrition, and many other factors can lead to problems with the gastrointestinal tract. It is important to notice the signals that your body sends and seek help from specialists in time. In this article, we will look at eight signs that indicate it is time to see a gastroenterologist as soon as possible.

1. Stomach pain and discomfort

One of the most obvious signs of stomach problems is pain and discomfort. This can manifest as sharp, stabbing pain or more dull but constant sensations of discomfort. If you regularly experience abdominal pain, especially after eating, this may be a sign of various stomach or intestinal diseases.

2. Stool disorders

Frequent diarrhea, constipation, or unusual changes in stool may be signs of intestinal problems. Irregular bowel movements, the presence of blood in the stool, or frequent pain during bowel movements are the most common symptoms that require the attention of a gastrointestinal specialist.

3. Changes in appetite and weight

Sudden changes in appetite or weight may be a sign of gastrointestinal problems. Losing or gaining weight for no apparent reason requires the attention of a specialist. This may be due to poor absorption of nutrients or, conversely, to their excess due to digestive problems.

4. Heartburn and acid reflux

Persistent heartburn and acid reflux may indicate problems with the digestive system, such as acid-related diseases, ulcers, or gastritis. If antacids don’t provide long-term relief, this may be a sign to make an appointment with a gastroenterologist.

5. Unexplained changes in liver and gallbladder function

In addition to the above-mentioned signs, it is necessary to pay attention to unusual changes in the functioning of the liver and gallbladder. Exacerbation of yellow coloration of the skin and whites of the eyes, as well as the appearance of dark urinary pigment, may indicate problems with liver functions. 

Gallbladder disorders can manifest as pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, especially after eating fatty foods. These symptoms may indicate various diseases, such as gallstones or hepatitis. Monitoring liver and gallbladder function is an important aspect of overall gastrointestinal health.

6. Pallor and anemia

Digestive problems can lead to iron deficiency and anemia. Symptoms of anemia include pale skin, weakness, and increased fatigue. A gastroenterologist can perform tests to determine iron levels in the body and identify causes of anemia.

7. Heredity and family history of diseases

If you have a family history of gastrointestinal diseases, you may be at increased risk of developing such problems. A gastroenterologist will be able to conduct the necessary examinations and recommendations to prevent or timely detect possible diseases.

8. Frequent gastrointestinal infections

Persistent infections in the gastrointestinal tract may indicate a weakened immune system or the presence of chronic diseases. If you experience frequent infections, a gastroenterologist may suggest a comprehensive examination to identify underlying causes and define the best treatment approaches.

The bottom line

It is important to understand that taking care of your digestive health plays a key role in your overall well-being. Regardless of age, regular consultations with a gastroenterologist can help prevent many diseases and improve your quality of life. If you notice at least one of the signs described above, do not delay visiting your doctor. 

A gastroenterologist will conduct the necessary research, make an accurate diagnosis, and offer treatment. In most cases, early detection of the problem leads to more effective and successful treatment. Taking care of your health is an investment in the future. Regular visits to a gastroenterologist, a balanced diet, and a healthy lifestyle will help you keep your gastrointestinal tract in great shape and enjoy a full life.

How Follicular Unit Excision and Extraction (FUE) Works 

FUE is a surgical hair harvesting process that extracts donor hair one graft at a time. Shaving the donor area is necessary to allow a good view of the grafts for extraction and improve precision during the crucial donor harvest step of the hair transplant surgery. The hair donor zone is on the back and sides of the head, and shaving this area allows surgeons to see the whole donor zone as well as individual hair transplants that will be harvested. This will ensure the quality of your hair loss treatment.

Technological advancement has led to more efficient graft harvesting tools. Punches are becoming smaller, reducing scarring and damage, while motorized punches have improved how surgeons score the surface layer of the skin while decreasing the depth of scoring. This protects the follicular unit grafts while minimizing the process's influence on the surrounding scalp tissue.  

Most surgeons use Dr. Jim Harris' SAFE System for manual FUE surgeries. It is a blunt, motorized dissection device that separates follicular units from the surrounding scalp. It allows surgeons to harvest them directly from the scalp while causing minimal damage to the follicles.

The Transplant Process

After the grafts are harvested, the Microscopic Follicular Unit Transplantation (MFUT) procedure commences. MFUT follows the same stages as Microscopically Dissected Elliptical Excision (MDEE), with the surgeon establishing recipient sites and gently but methodically placing the grafts at the right angle and orientation. 

FUE is a revolutionary harvesting procedure that is ideal for people seeking an alternative to the conventional MDEE approach. MDEE entails extracting an elliptical strip of tissue, dissecting it, and inserting the grafts into the recipient locations. In comparison, the FUE hair transplant method results in minuscule, pinpoint scars throughout the donor region. These are difficult to notice because the shaved hair begins to regrow. That process takes around two weeks. Furthermore, FUE is suitable for individuals who keep their hair very short and want to have fewer visible scars because donor region scarring is nearly unnoticeable at hair lengths less than 1 cm.

Does FUE Hair Transplant Hurt?

The good news is that the operation itself should be painless. Follicular Unit Extraction can be labor-intensive because each donor follicle must be retrieved with a tool. Furthermore, the outcomes of the procedure can appear uncomfortable and painful. During the process, however, a local anesthetic numbs the scalp area where the surgery will be performed. Patients may experience some discomfort initially, but once the anesthesia has taken effect and the area is fully numb, they should no longer feel pain. 

Pain tolerance indeed differs from person to person. You can tell your surgeon how you're feeling during the hair transplantation procedure so that they can make any required adjustments.

Post-Operative Care and Comfort

After the FUE hair transplant procedure, a light dressing is placed on the operating site and then removed once the patient arrives home. To encourage healing, the scalp is left open as much as possible on the first night. The next day, patients should go back to the clinic for a hair wash and scalp examination. After that, no dressing is usually required. Minimal scalp soreness and swelling are usual after FUE, and most patients will be given prescriptions for oral pain medication to take post-operatively if necessary. 

Each unique patient heals at their rate. Some people may feel minor pain for a few days, while others may have sore scalps for several weeks. The amount of grafts that patients have received also influences the healing process. More grafts placed will necessitate longer recovery durations. Your doctor may administer growth factor injections containing Z-Factors to aid in the healing process and boost early hair regeneration.

Healing usually takes seven to 10 days. Patients who experience prolonged discomfort following their procedure, or who find that their scalp is not healing properly, should see their doctor as soon as possible to rule out any other underlying concerns interfering with the healing process. 

Part B of Medicare covers various preventive care services, such as wellness checkups and screenings for various diseases. STD testing is included.

Sexually transmitted diseases are caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which is why STD testing is sometimes also called STI Testing.

If you are at high risk for an STI, you can be tested once a year. As long as you meet the standards, Medicare will cover the entire cost of testing.

If you have original Medicare, your coverage will be through Part B or your Medicare Advantage plan if you have one.

When does Medicare cover STD testing?

You can get Medicare coverage for STD testing services, but you must meet Medicare's conditions. Depending on the test you require, Medicare has slightly varying restrictions.

If you require an HIV test, Medicare will pay for it if you meet the following criteria:

• You’re pregnant

• You’re between the ages of 15 and 65

• You’re over age 65 but at an increased risk

• You’re under age 15 but at an increased risk

During your pregnancy, Medicare will fund up to three prenatal tests. In all other circumstances, HIV testing will be covered once a year.

Other STD testing is covered by Medicare once a year if you are at high risk or during your pregnancy.

Some more STD testing covered by Medicare include screenings for:

• hepatitis B

• chlamydia

• syphilis

• gonorrhea

What does Medicare consider an increased risk for an STI?

For a variety of reasons, Medicare may consider you to be at elevated risk for an STI. You can get screened if you've engaged in any of Medicare's "high-risk" sexual activities.

This includes if:

• You’ve had multiple sex partners.

• You’ve had sex without a condom or other barrier method.

• You’ve had sex under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

• You’ve had sex in exchange for money or drugs.

Medicare will also consider you at increased risk if:

• You had an STI in the past year.

• You live in a community that has a high prevalence of any STI.

• You’re a male who has had sex with another male and engaged in one of the practices above.

Furthermore, if you are a sexually active woman under the age of 24, Medicare considers you to be at high risk for chlamydia and gonorrhea.

Finally, if you use intravenous drugs, Medicare considers you to be at high risk for hepatitis B.

If any of these criteria apply to you, or if you have any other reason to believe you may have been exposed to an STI, consult your doctor. Your doctor can issue you an STI test order.

If your doctor prescribes the test and you are at a greater risk, Medicare will fund it.

Does Medicare cover STI testing for LBGTQIA people?

For the LGBTQIA community, Medicare provides STI tests.

As previously stated, Medicare will fund STI testing for any male who has had sex with another male, regardless of gender identification.

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has also extended coverage and protections. 

Some new safeguards that can aid in STI testing include:

• The gender specified on your Medicare card does not affect the covered services. This allows transgender people who have not legally altered their gender to receive proper care, such as STI testing.

• Medicare provides coverage for same-gender spouses. You can now qualify for Medicare based on your spouse's employment credits, regardless of whether your spouse is male or female.

• You have the right to be free of discrimination while seeking medical care. Medicare providers must give the same level of service to all patients. You can submit a complaint with Medicare if your provider does not comply.

How much does the average STI test cost?

STI testing can range from $0 to $300. The cost of an STI test is determined by several factors, including the procedure and where you go for testing. Because many providers provide sliding-scale fees for STI tests, your income may also be an issue.

When you use Medicare, you will not be charged for resting.

There is no copayment or coinsurance with Medicare for testing. Medicare will cover the entire cost of your test if a doctor orders it and you are eligible.

Omega-3 fatty acids are like superheroes of the nutrient world, silently working wonders within our bodies. Beyond their well-known role in promoting heart health, these incredible compounds offer many benefits for overall well-being. Let's explore these fantastic health perks that make omega-3 fatty acids a star among dietary supplements.

1. Promoting bone and joint health

Maintaining strong bones and flexible joints becomes increasingly crucial as the years pass. Omega-3 fatty acids step in as formidable allies in this journey. Aging often leads to a decline in connective tissues around joints, making them susceptible to inflammation and pain. Omega-3s, however, exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, alleviating symptoms associated with joint issues.

Moreover, these fatty acids contribute to calcium absorption, a vital element for bone health. Calcium, essential for bone strength, relies on various nutrients for efficient absorption. Omega-3 fatty acids play a pivotal role in reducing the risk of conditions like osteoporosis.

2. Alleviating depression symptoms

In the realm of mental health, omega-3 fatty acids offer a shield against depression, a widespread concern globally. Depression manifests through feelings of sadness and a pervasive loss of interest in life. Individuals who incorporate sufficient omega-3-rich foods or supplements into their diets showcase a reduced vulnerability to depression.

For those grappling with depression, the inclusion of omega-3 supplements is a potential game-changer. Fatty fish, nuts, seeds, plant oils, and fortified foods like eggs and yogurt stand as rich dietary sources of omega-3.

3. Nurturing skin health

Our skin, the body's largest organ, battles environmental onslaughts daily. Factors like sun exposure, allergens, and toxins can compromise its defensive capabilities, leading to discomfort through flare-ups, dryness, and irritation. Omega-3 fatty acids come to the rescue by supporting skin membranes, aiding repair from environmental damage, and preventing dryness.

The anti-inflammatory nature of omega-3 contributes to preventing skin issues like acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Consistent consumption of omega-3-rich foods significantly alleviates the symptoms associated with these skin conditions.

4. Safeguarding heart health

Omega-3 fatty acids emerge as guardians against the world's leading cause of death – heart disease. Those who incorporate sufficient omega-3s into their diets enjoy a reduced risk of heart-related ailments such as heart attacks and strokes. The benefits extend to lowering triglyceride levels, elevating good cholesterol, and preventing blood clots by inhibiting excessive blood clotting.

Crucially, omega-3's anti-inflammatory prowess addresses a significant risk factor for heart disease – overall body inflammation. Individuals with heart disease risk factors should consult a skilled cardiologist about the suitability of omega-3 supplements.

5. Preserving vision health

DHA, a type of omega-3 fatty acid, emerges as a critical player in maintaining vision health. As a structural component of the retina, insufficient DHA intake may lead to vision issues and increase the risk of macular degeneration, a primary cause of vision deterioration and blindness globally.

Foods like fish, seaweed, and algae serve as rich sources of DHA. Including these in your regular diet contributes to preserving eye health and reducing the likelihood of permanent vision damage.

6. Boosting cognitive function

Amidst its health benefits, omega-3 fatty acids are renowned for their positive impact on cognitive function. These essential fats play a crucial role in brain health, supporting nerve cell communication and aiding in the formation of cell membranes. Adequate omega-3 intake has been linked to a lower risk of cognitive decline and conditions like Alzheimer's disease.

Research suggests that omega-3s, particularly DHA, are vital for maintaining brain structure and function. Regularly consuming foods rich in omega-3s or appropriate supplements can enhance memory, sharpen cognitive abilities, and lower the risk of age-related cognitive disorders. As we age, prioritizing omega-3s becomes a proactive measure for sustaining mental acuity and cognitive well-being.

The bottom line 

The multifaceted benefits of omega-3 fatty acids extend far beyond cardiovascular health. From bolstering bones and combating depression to nurturing the skin and preserving vision, these remarkable nutrients deserve a place of prominence in our daily diets. Whether through dietary adjustments or supplements, unlocking the potential of omega-3s is a step towards a healthier, more resilient you.