Pelvic floor therapy is a type of physical therapy that works on the low back, abdomen, pelvis, and muscles of the pelvic floor. Each patient receives pelvic floor therapy in a one-on-one, customized, and private treatment setting. Pelvic health physical therapists will focus on enhancing awareness of the pelvic floor. Certain treatment programs can significantly help you in relieving your symptoms by relaxing and lengthening the muscles, while others will assist you in strengthening the muscles. Westlake Pelvic Floor Therapy is a first-line, low-risk, and minimally invasive therapeutic option for a variety of illnesses.

Pelvic floor disorders can manifest themselves in a variety of ways in both males and females. Pelvic pain, fecal or urine leakage—all of these are some common pelvic floor issues. The pelvic floor is made up of the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissue that surround the pelvic organs (such as the rectum, bladder, and in the case of the females, their vagina and uterus). Due to the location of pelvic floor disorders on the body, they can be particularly unpleasant or difficult to discuss about.

Westlake Pelvic Floor Therapy: Treating Prevalent Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Problems

Westlake pelvic floor therapy can help alleviate – and even cure – the following prevalent pelvic floor conditions:

• Urinary incontinence
• Fecal incontinence
• Pelvic and vaginal pain
• Urinary incontinence
• Fecal incontinence
• Pelvic and vaginal pain
• Pelvic nerve injuries
• Endometriosis
• Prostate inflammation
• Inability to urinate (urinary retention)
• Constipation
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Pre- or post-pregnancy pelvic or back pain
• Pelvic organ prolapses
• Orthopedic issues such as hip, lower back, joint, tailbone, or pubic bone pain

Westlake pelvic floor physical therapists collaborate closely with the gynecologist, urologist, urogynecologist, and other healthcare specialists to ensure that your therapy is coordinated and suitable for the optimum pelvic floor rehabilitation outcomes.

Treatment Regimen

 The treatment regimens are carefully customized to your specific illness and personal goals that may include the following:

• Changes in bowel/bladder habits, hydration intake, and eating patterns.
• Training to enhance posture, joint, and ligament movement, and body awareness.
• Diaphragmatic “belly” or “chest” breathing techniques – These breathing techniques are beneficial for musculoskeletal pain.
• At-home exercises that will relax, strengthen, or massage your muscles based on your condition.
• Exercises that assist with bladder control, like Kegels (constantly contracting your pelvic muscles, which control the flow of urination).
• Stimulating a muscular reaction using biofeedback sensors and a low-grade electrical current.
• Manual manipulations – The pelvic floor physical therapist would massage your muscles, mobilize your joints, and manipulate your joints.
• Muscle energy procedures – They use a series of muscle tension and relaxation activities to fully mobilize a restricted joint.

Westlake Pelvic Floor Therapy: What to Expect During The Initial Consultation

Pelvic floor therapy is the best alternative for treating pelvic disorders when you would not want to undergo surgery. However, bear in mind that there are certain conditions where surgery is really required. Nevertheless, Westlake pelvic floor therapy can still be done before and after surgery; this has been proven to be beneficial for faster healing.

During your initial evaluation, the pelvic floor physical therapist would evaluate your medical history and ask about your behaviors and health that may affect your condition, such as how much fluid you drink daily, your diet, and how frequently you have sex.

The exam will last for about an hour and will be conducted in a private room. The pelvic floor physical therapist will then perform a pelvic exam at your initial session if you are already comfortable to proceed with the procedure.

What Does an Internal Pelvic Floor Muscle Examination Entail?

The majority of people with pelvic floor disorders will require an internal examination of the pelvic floor muscles. The exam, which is conducted by the pelvic floor physical therapist, can aid in identifying any muscular, strength, or coordination issues that may be causing the patients pain, functional impairments, or discomfort.

The pelvic floor physical therapist would need to insert a finger into either the vagina or rectum to check the pelvic floor muscles as part of an internal assessment.

Internal pelvic floor examination is critical for formulating an accurate treatment strategy. However, doctors may test the pelvic floor muscles with a variety of additional procedures, including the following:

• Pelvic girdle assessments – The pelvic floor physical therapist would assess the condition of your pelvic girdle, a complex ring of joints, muscles, and ligaments that connects the skeleton to the lower limbs and the pelvic floor.
• Abdominal screening pre-and post-partum – Doctors will assess the abdominal muscles to identify if they have separated (abdominal diastasis).
• Biofeedback and Electromyography testing —They can utilize biofeedback sensors to induce a muscular reaction with a low-grade electrical current, which aids in the detection of neuromuscular disorders.

These other tests are frequently ineffective at determining muscle strength, coordination, or tone as an internal pelvic assessment would be. It is entirely up to you to determine which examination is most appropriate for your comfort and needs.

Westlake Pelvic Floor Therapy: Required Number Of Sessions

The duration of treatment will vary according to one’s severity of the problem and the personal efforts to adhere to the treatment plan. Typically,  patients who attend physical therapy consistently and adhere to their treatment plan carefully may notice a reduction in symptoms within the span of three months. They may, however, require additional treatment sessions based on their condition.

The therapy outcome will be determined by one’s personal goals, motivation, and diagnosis. A pelvic floor therapy is most effective when you commit to lasting lifestyle changes that improve the strength of your muscles and assist in symptom relief.

Westlake Pelvic Floor Therapy: Finding a Pelvic Floor Therapist

Westlake Pelvic Floor therapists are highly trained to assess and treat pelvic floor conditions. Their experienced therapists are committed to reestablishing your pelvic health.

Having a pelvic floor therapist would mean a personal relationship between the therapist and the client since they will be discussing some of the most intimate things of the latter’s life. Therefore, it is critical that you choose a therapist with whom you feel at ease and with whom you can work to enhance your condition.

Invisalign is truly a modern wonder. In just over a two-decade lifespan, it has become increasingly popular, standing as one of the dental world’s contemporary focal points. Serving over eleven million smiles thus far; Invisalign and its stealthy aligners have managed to correct a myriad of patients’ teeth by presenting a more seamless alternative to the traditional methods. 

Occupying such an undeniable presence in the dental world, people and patients alike are seeking more information regarding all things Invisalign. Let’s debunk some myths and misconceptions regarding the product, giving you some beneficial knowledge about Invisalign along the way. 

I Need Something Quick.

While many assume Invisalign would take longer than braces, since it’s less invasive and demanding, it’s actually the complete opposite. While it depends on a case-by-case basis, braces usually require anywhere from eighteen to twenty-four months to complete their process. 

Invisalign, you ask? The average timeframe sits at twelve months! This increased efficiency is due to the aligners being swapped out every one to two weeks. Granting the ability for new aligners to evolve in shape alongside your teeth as they shift formation. More crowded or complicated jaws will most likely require a little more time with Invisalign.

What’s The Limit?

Every smile is original and requires unique methods to ensure it’s brought to its optimal state. Invisalign is celebrated for its flexibility, but it also boasts a broad capability to correct almost any smile. 

Since Aligners are crafted to perfectly fit along the rows of your jaw, they can be perfectly customized to fit into mouths which suffer from gapped teeth, crossbites, overbites, open bites, underbites, overcrowded teeth and so on. In general, any issue which braces can correct so can Invisalign.

Rated R

While Invisalign is commonly marketed towards adults, it is not uncommon for younger patients to adopt the product as well. Though with the great freedom that Invisalign offers, comes great responsibility. Due to it being completely removable and managed primarily by the patient, only those capable of being fully accountable should utilize the product. 

Invisalign can be adopted by teenagers who showcase a strong sense of responsibility and maturity while being competent enough to follow the instructions of dental professionals. In terms of children though, Invisalign is not suitable.

Dental Implants are a long standing and celebrated procedure, capable of replacing teeth which may be broken, infected, or missing.

The More You Know

The procedure consists of a small titanium post being drilled into the patient’s jawbone- creating space for a fixed bridge, single crown, or full or partial denture to be installed. Allowing new artificial teeth to be completely joined into the rest of your smile; restoring its functionality and elevating its appearance.

With such an intricate procedure follows some knowledge that’s well worth learning. And information is something that’s always worth sharing! Let’s go over some interesting facts regarding dental implants, and hopefully, you’ll learn something surprising in the process.

Winning Streak

Dental Implants are an amazing feature of dentistry and have a long and successful history since they were invented in the 1960s. The reason for their enduring legacy is simple- they are almost always successful! Implants serve as superior alternatives to the limited lifespans of bridges, crowns, and dentures. While even some dentures may last longer in appearance than their intended timeframe, their functionality will wane quickly in comparison to implants. Implants, due to their formidable material and invasive process, seldom need replacements- commonly lasting a lifetime if maintained properly.

Titanic Titanium

Speaking of material, let’s dig a little deeper. Implants are created from titanium. A metal blessed with a lightweight composition, while also boasting more durability than steel and remaining resistant to corrosion. Meaning it will have no troubles adapting and operating within your jaw, as NASA commonly utilizes this substance to craft shuttles intended for galactic travel!

The durability of these implants is further improved with an additional layer of oxidized titanium. People who have complete upper dentures put in can vouch for the efficacy of this process – allowing them to chew and eat food they would normally not be able to manage with traditional dentures. This upgrade gives a heightened sense of security and confidence to those who may be worried about their implants moving or coming loose.

Cavity Free

What’s Cooler than Sci-Fi Space Teeth? Well, that’s hard to top. However, it’s definitely a bonus that implants are immune to cavities. Not being natural teeth, the durable material of implants proves resistant to decay. This doesn’t mean you should ease up on your oral care regimen, in fact, the most crucial part of the implant process is properly tending to them afterward. Conventional brushing and flossing habits are mandatory to ensure their success while protecting your natural gums and tissue in the surrounding vicinity.

The Freedom to Indulge

Another bonus is the ability to continue your eating habits as normal. The durability of implants is nothing to doubt- basically, any food ranging in texture from crunchy to squishy will likely result in zero complications when biting, chewing, and grinding. Consequently, they allow for patients to retain about 90% of their chewing abilities, which pales in comparison to dentures which offer only around 20%.

All Ages Welcome

If you’re in need of dental implants, visiting this dentist is worth considering. Aside from implants, they have other services as well like bonding, fillings, and teeth whitening in harrisburg.

Dental Implants don’t discriminate on the basis of age, while many associates the process with older individuals, this is simply a stereotype. The purpose they fulfill is universal and is applicable to any patient in need of a new tooth between the ages of sixteen and eighty-six. Of course, the factors which dictate your viability for the procedure remain more focused on your overall oral and bodily health, along with your capability to properly manage them once installed.

Orthodontic procedures celebrate a longstanding and reputable namesake within the world of dentistry. Both braces and Invisalign have successfully transformed countless lives by elevating both the aesthetic and function of every smile they embrace.

Considering such a life-changing procedure is often met with an array of questions and concerns, especially when deciding which orthodontic method would serve as the best fit for you. 

Ultimately, it’s best to receive a professional consultation beforehand. This will allow a dental professional to gain key insights into your unique situation and recommended the appropriate orthodontic method to reshape your smile.

Side by Side Comparisons     When considering between braces and Invisalign, the focus is placed on a handful of key circumstances unique to each option. To ensure you adopt the right choice for you, it may prove helpful to consider some of these core topics and relate them directly to your oral anatomy and lifestyle!

Appearances

The most common backlash braces receive are regarding their physical appearance. Typically metal or silver in colour, the steel brackets find a home on top of your teeth producing a bold appearance for all to see. There are various colour options for additional costs, with some patients opting into the clear white hue so they better camouflage into the teeth.

In stark contrast stands Invisalign. Consisting of removable and clear plastic aligners which embrace your teeth. The product is praised for its stealth, being nearly invisible to unsuspecting eyes.        Treatment Time

The average lifespan of the braces process stands at around two years. This is completely dependent on the situation of the patient, meaning it could be quicker or take longer. Moreover, braces are a fixed solution; meaning they cannot be removed and are permanently fused to your teeth for the duration of the treatment.

Invisalign is often seen as a quicker alternative, on average completing its course between six to eighteen months- again depending on the patient. Best of all, Invisalign is completely removable! Offering flexibility and certain freedoms to those who adopt it. The aligners are designed to be worn between 20 to 22 hours a day.

Cost

On average, the braces cost anywhere between $1,800 to $5,000. The severity of how much shifting your teeth require is the major influencer on cost. Most dental insurance plans cover, in some part, a certain amount of the payment.

Due to its modern edge, Invisalign is on average much pricier. The usual treatment boasts a price tag of about $5,000. Again, insurance plans usually cover some extent of dental alignment procedures– so always inquire with them before making any commitments. 

Maintenance 

Braces, being fused onto your teeth, become an integral part of your oral anatomy. Meaning all oral health habits will have to take their presence into consideration. To upkeep their integrity, it’s mandatory to brush twice a day thoroughly, especially after meals, and floss daily! Ensuring the wires and brackets are spotless.    Invisalign requires an elevated sense of responsibility. Since the product is completely removable, it requires its own upkeep alongside your regular oral care habits. This includes following the instructions of dental professionals, adopting the Invisalign cleaning system, and brushing or rinsing trays in lukewarm water. 

Checkups

Braces require checkups about once a month. Granting dental professionals the ability to track your progress accordingly, ensuring any tweaks or adjustments may be made to continue to steer your teeth into the desired formation. 

Invisalign is a little less demanding in terms of required visits to your local dental office. Since new plastic aligners are crafted in advance to match alongside the shifting progress of your teeth, you will have to attend scheduled checkups every four to six weeks.                            

There May Be More 

There are a few other factors that contribute to your optimal orthodontic method beyond the ones listed above. It’s also commonplace to find Invisalign associated with more mature patients. 

Invisalign’s fate lies, in large part, within the patient’s hands. Its guaranteed success is reliant on the patient’s individual responsibility, as the process is so flexible.  Pre-teens in need of teeth realignment aren’t usually capable of reliably handling these demanding circumstances, and are best suited for braces instead.

For more information, contact a dental professional or schedule a consultation to get a better understanding of what method can effectively improve your smile!

The oral anatomy is prone to the presence and buildup of bacteria. Failing to combat this biological process is the most common harbinger of cavities, gum disease, tooth decay, and eventual tooth loss. Of course, the best strategy to eradicate this frequent buildup is through effective and frequent oral care habits. 

Many patients remain unaware of what plaque and calculus are and how dangerous they may be left to their own devices. Let’s go over their distinctions, how to prevent their formation, and why it’s so crucial to your oral health to do so!

What is Plaque 

Plaque is the gummy and transparent film which forms along your teeth and gumline. This substance consists of natural bacteria forming with proteins and food particles present in the mouth. Allowing plaque to rest and spread along your teeth and gums empower its bacteria to attack your teeth’s enamel. This can and will result in cavities; while even comprising your overall tooth structure and contributing to gum disease if left unchecked. 

Removing Plaque 

It’s quite simple, plaque can generally be removed by regularly and extensively brushing and flossing your teeth. Teeth should be thoroughly brushed at least twice a day, ideally after eating, while flossing is a highly recommended activity that should be performed daily! Utilizing mouthwash contributes in the elimination of harmful oral bacteria, as well as adopting a healthy diet that avoid excessive amounts of sugar and starches.

What Is Calculus 

Also referred to as tartar, calculus refers to the solidified plaque which cakes the teeth. Calculus, unlike its predecessor, cannot be removed by conventional brushing and flossing. With plaque not being removed over time, it hardens over time and binds into the very structure of the tooth! This is a more serious situation, and can only be remedied by a thorough dental cleaning! If left unchecked, calculus could lead to tooth decay, serious periodontal (gum) disease, and receding gums. 

Removing Calculus

As mentioned above, it remains only feasible for a dental professional to remove the calculus thanks to specialized equipment and expertise! Deep cleanings consist of identifying and scraping away the calculus, while also smoothing down the tooth structure which was once caked in tartar. Afterwards, patients are encouraged to fully commit to practicing the aforementioned oral care habits which remain crucial to blockading the development of calculus… brush and floss! 

Stopping Plaque from Progressing

If left unchecked for long enough, pesky plaque can evolve into more threatening tartar. Stopping calculus from forming is not a complex matter- just strive to stop as much plaque from forming as possible. Engrave these tips into both your minds and routine, and you will surely maintain a smile absent of both excess plaque and eventual calculus:

• Brush at least twice a day, especially after meals.
• Floss daily, ideally at night time.
• Commit to routine dental checkups, usually once every 6 months.
• Drink water to ensure you’re hydrated! A moist mouth is ideal to combat bacteria.
• Limit sugar and starch intake.
• Avoid the use of all tobacco products! Both smoking and chewing.

With a longstanding history of almost sixty years, dental implants have proven to be effective and reliable procedures restoring smiles, look, and function. While they receive praise from both dentists and patients alike, the truth remains that they are not a widespread solution for all. Your eligibility for such a demanding procedure is based on a multitude of factors. By taking these into consideration, dental professionals may confidently decide if a dental implant is a suitable option for you, or if you’d be better off with alternative options instead.

Not Quite the Right Fit

Dental Implants are invasive and significant procedures, requiring a titanium post to be drilled into your jawbone, permanently fusing artificial teeth into the very fabric of your smile. With that in mind, there are some qualifications a patient must meet in order to ensure the procedure is not only feasible but will remain successful in the long run. Some of the indicators we consider are:

• Previously having implants installed which failed.
• Missing bone throughout critical parts of the oral anatomy.
• Medical conditions and lifestyle choices like severe osteoporosis or heavy smoking. Leading to high risk or unpredictable outcomes in the bone grafting process.
• Periodontal (gum) diseases, such as gingivitis or periodontitis.
• Genetically thin gums and bones, leading to an increased risk of losing more bone and gum around the implants as time progresses.
• Front teeth experiencing vertical bone loss and leading to an unnaturally high smile. 
• How responsible is the patient? Will they do what’s necessary to maintain the post procedure results?

When determining if implants are the appropriate method to correct your smile, a dental professional will take these points, among others, into careful consideration. 

If it is ultimately decided upon that dental implants are not a feasible feat for your jaw to handle, a dentist will recommend similar alternatives which may be less taxing on your smile. If you fall into this category for whatever circumstance, it’s important to become familiar with your other options. 

You Have Options

Dentures are another staple in the world of dentistry, providing a removable substitute which restores a sizable amount of functionality. 

Full Dentures

Full mouth dentures are an excellent method to remedy a jaw which is missing all of its teeth or anticipating getting all remaining teeth removed due to damage or disease. Providing the façade of having a full set of straight teeth, they also grant patients the renewed ability to properly chew their food. Dentures are not as effective as one’s natural teeth or implants, meaning some restrictions towards diet may be commonplace. 

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures operate similarly to their more encompassing counterparts. These are intended for patients who have several missing teeth which need substitutes, while still maintaining some of their natural teeth as well. Partial dentures are attached to a plastic base matching the color of your gums, allowing them to blend in aesthetically with your gums. Leaving gaps to leave room for your natural teeth to operate properly. However, they are sometimes uncomfortable and may be less reliable than other methods since they require frequent repairs as time carries forward. 

Fixed Bridges

Fixed Bridges, unlike dentures, are fixated in place with a unique bonding material by a dental professional. While technically a permanent option, they are not as intrusive as implants and offer more functionality than dentures. They quickly become an integral part of your oral anatomy, being non removable. This means they have potential to be problematic if not cleaned or cared for correctly, leading to damage among adjacent teeth which could be already healthy. 

Let Us Take a Look

Avoid feeling discouraged if dental implants aren’t the right fit for you! A dental professional will be more than happy to analyze and further discuss your situation and land on the best option suitable for your smile. 

While these options may seem to be less effective alternatives at face value, it’s important to remember that dental implants have their potential downfalls as well. Nothing is absolutely perfect; as long as you maintain your oral care and follow the guidance of your dentist, we can bring your smile to its optimal state no matter the procedure your smile adopts.