Leveza e Autoconhecimento

Dental wax is a soft, pliable material commonly used in dentistry to protect oral tissues and improve patient comfort. Though small and often overlooked, dental wax plays an important role in managing irritation caused by orthodontic appliances, dental restorations, and temporary dental procedures.

The most common use of dental wax is in orthodontics. Braces, wires, and brackets can rub against the cheeks, lips, and gums, causing soreness and small cuts, especially during the initial adjustment period. Dental wax acts as a protective barrier, covering sharp or protruding parts and reducing friction against soft tissues.

Dental wax is typically made from natural or synthetic waxes that are safe for oral use. It softens when warmed by the hands or mouth, allowing it to be molded easily. Once applied, it adheres gently to dental surfaces without damaging appliances or teeth.

Beyond orthodontics, dental wax is also used after dental procedures. Patients may…

Metastatic spinal tumors occur when cancer cells spread from their original site to the spine. They are far more common than primary spinal tumors and represent a serious complication of advanced cancer. The spine is particularly vulnerable because of its rich blood supply, which allows circulating cancer cells to settle and grow.

Most metastatic spinal tumors originate from cancers of the breast, lung, prostate, kidney, or thyroid. Once cancer cells lodge in the vertebrae, they can weaken bone structure, compress the spinal cord, and interfere with nerve function. This can lead to pain, neurological deficits, and reduced mobility.

Symptoms often begin with persistent back pain that worsens at night or during rest. As the tumor grows, patients may experience numbness, weakness, difficulty walking, or loss of bladder and bowel control. These symptoms indicate spinal cord compression, a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.

Diagnosis involves imaging studies such as MRI, CT…

Dental infections occur when bacteria invade the tooth, gums, or surrounding tissues, often as a result of untreated cavities, gum disease, or dental trauma. These infections can range from mild discomfort to severe, life-threatening conditions if not properly treated. Understanding how dental infections develop and how they are treated is essential for maintaining oral and overall health.

The most common types of dental infections include tooth abscesses, gum infections, and infections of the surrounding bone. Bacteria enter through cracks, cavities, or weakened gum tissue and multiply, leading to inflammation, pain, swelling, and pus formation. Symptoms may include throbbing tooth pain, facial swelling, fever, bad breath, and difficulty chewing.

Treatment of dental infections begins with accurate diagnosis. Dentists use physical examination, dental X-rays, and patient history to determine the source and severity of the infection. Once identified, treatment focuses on eliminating the infection and preventing its spread.

Antibiotics are often prescribed…

Drug allergy is an adverse immune response that occurs when the body mistakenly identifies a medication as harmful. Unlike common drug side effects, allergic reactions involve the immune system and can range from mild symptoms to life-threatening emergencies. Understanding drug allergy is essential for patients and healthcare professionals alike to ensure safe and effective treatment.

When a person is allergic to a drug, their immune system produces antibodies or activates immune cells that react upon exposure to the medication. Common drugs associated with allergies include antibiotics, pain relievers, anticonvulsants, and certain chemotherapy agents. Even medications considered safe for the general population can trigger allergic reactions in susceptible individuals.

Symptoms of drug allergy vary widely. Mild reactions may include skin rashes, itching, or hives. Moderate reactions can involve swelling of the lips, face, or throat, fever, or joint pain. Severe reactions, such as anaphylaxis, can cause difficulty breathing, low blood pressure,…