What is Malocclusion? Before answering any of the questions regarding what one should expect from jaw surgery, the first thing that should be addressed is the reason for the procedure. In the vast majority of cases, the person undergoing the surgery is having it done to re-align the jaw because of a ‘poor bite’. That is to say that when the teeth are clenched tightly, they don’t line up correctly, which is often a result of the jaw not providing enough space for the teeth residing there. In some cases, a dentist can correct this problem with tooth extraction and/or braces. However, in severe situations, jaw surgery is required.

What Problems are Associated with Malocclusion? A misaligned jaw can create problems in everyday life, making it more of a challenge to eat, speak, and even sleep. A person may not even be aware of how severe the problem is until the dentist has taken action to correct it and he or she discovers how much easier these daily activities become. A common nighttime ailment known as sleep apnea has been linked to this condition. The misaligned jaw can also lead to bruxism, which is more commonly known as ‘teeth grinding’.

Will I Be Awake for the Surgery? No. Jaw surgery, which is also known as orthognathic surgery, is performed under general anesthesia, so you will sleep through the entire procedure. If you have experienced troubles with anesthesia in the past, this is something that should be discussed at length with the surgeon, prior to the operation.

Is it an Outpatient Procedure? Not necessarily. It is not uncommon for patients to be hospitalized overnight after having this type of procedure done.

How Long will it Take to Heal? In most cases, a person can expect the healing process to take several weeks. The bone must have time to recover and during that time, wires, plates, screw, or some combination of those things will be used to keep everything in place. Regular visits to the dentist after surgery are very important, so the teeth and jaw can be tracked for any problems in the future.

When Can I Return to Work or School? Though most find it possible to return to school not long after the procedure is done, there are restrictions made that could prevent full participation in your job. This includes limits placed on lifting. Anything over thirty pounds is generally restricted for up to one month. Similarly, contact sports should be avoided for three months after surgery.

What Complications May Arise? As with any major surgery, there are risks. However, the most common problems include parethesia, which is numbness of the lip, bleeding, swelling, and muscle spasm. In fewer than fifteen percent of cases, there may be some degree of infection.

Will There be Visible Scarring? Scars are not generally visible after jaw surgery. The incisions are made within the mouth, making them invisible to onlookers, except your dentist.

Do I Have to Have the Surgery? This is really a decision to be made between you and your orthodontist. However, jaw surgery is typically considered an elective procedure and is done for added comfort and improved appearance rather than emergency complications.

image via Flickr from (otisarchives4)

Going Gray

Perhaps the most commonly though of sign of aging is gray hair. Though genetics can cause a person to have gray hair in his or her twenties, this trait is typically associated with the older generations. Gray hair is the result of a reduction in melanin – cells responsible for giving hair its natural color. In order to disguise the color loss, many people turn to hair dyes. Though there are four types of hair dye – gradual, temporary, semi-permanent, and permanent – the vast majority of people use permanent. However, it should be noted that permanent hair dyes alter the chemical properties of the hair, which can cause it to be brittle and susceptible to damage. To minimize this, conditioners are generally recommended. It is also advised that a person wait at least four weeks between colorings to ensure the hair has time to recover.

In some cases, even if the hair does not turn gray, there may be a need for hair dye. Darker hair can begin to cause a person to looked ‘washed out’ due to changes in the skin as he or she ages. Microdermabrasion and other spa treatments can also assist with this issue.

New Hair in Unusual Places

Men are more susceptible to the problem of sudden hair growth as they age, but women too may notice this phenomenon. With men, the problem areas tend to be the back, nose, and ears, whereas women may begin to experience facial hair growth in their later years. Laser hair removal is quickly becoming a leading form of treatment for this issue. The reason for this sudden crop-up of hair in new places is not entirely understood, but most agree that it would be a result of fluctuations in hormone levels as we grow – most importantly, fluctuations in testosterone. Fortunately, it can be treated and erased for a more youthful, smooth appearance.

Balding

A large portion of our population is more concerned with bringing hair back than they are with hair removal. Baldness is a genetic trait that most people would rather not inherit. Unfortunately, we don’t get to pick our own genes. As people age, hair growth slows, which means that hair appears thinner. There continues to be a great deal of research done on the topic of reversing hair loss, but that has not yet been done successfully. Men and women who face the problem have a few options, including surgical hair restoration and non-surgical hair replacement. There is hope that the future will bring an even better solution to the large number of people troubled with hair loss. Until then, professionals continue to offer the best possible solutions.

Cadiz Laser Spa
115 Sundance Pkwy #230
Round Rock, TX
(512) 733-2639

Cadiz Laser Spa
5656 Bee Caves Rd #E201
Austin, TX
(512) 306-1619

In Texas drug rehab has come a long way in providing all the necessary ingredients to make it more likely that addicts can get well, break the addiction, and learn how to live life without taking the drug which has become their downfall. The approach which seems to work best for most people is a residential program which will make sure the focus is on clinical treatment. The program recommended centers around a 12-step recovery which will help the entire person: spiritual, physical, mental, and emotional. The program features aspects which will help with developing integrity, taking responsibility for yourself, and holding yourself accountable for your own actions.

Whether you are in Texas and wish to participate in cocaine rehabilitation or another type of drug prevention program, everything you need is available. There is a live-in program that is able to help you, no matter what your drug addiction. Locations include proximity to Dallas and Austin, which may make it convenient for anyone.

Getting through the process of enrolling in a long term meth rehab is the first step to recovery from meth abuse. Life will be better than ever when you can look yourself in the mirror and know you are no longer going to give in to the pull drugs have had on your life. Because this is a live-in program, you will be learning how to live a normal life without the drug. You will have highly trained and compassionate counselors to encourage sober living, and help you along the way. You will learn what it means to once again have self respect and feel great about yourself with no sense of a dulling influence.

Drug rehab is possible, no matter how long you have been living the lifestyle that got you addicted and kept you that way up until now. Our counselors are licensed in chemical dependency and there is also a heroin relapse prevention program administered by licensed professionals who are trained to help patients in several aspects. We offer family programs, too, to help the entire family through the recovery process. Because we work with families, going home will be easier when it’s time.

Addiction has had its way long enough. When you say no more, you can be free of cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine drugs, alcohol, and any other substance which you may have been abusing. Your recovery is important. Our program can help you get there, one step at a time and with long term help. Living life at its best will begin when you are on your way to being well, with total recovery. The program is here for you and your family, and the time to take that step is now.

An Emergency

You know about an emergency doctor, but an emergency dentist? Yes, there definitely is an emergency dentist, and have the same type of function as an ER doctor – to help those who need immediate help when they can’t get any. So why would you go to an emergency dentist? There are a number of reasons. If you got a tooth chipped or knocked out some weekend or evening when the dentist’s office has closed, or if you suddenly find that you’re dealing with a large amount of pain that you can’t handle. These are classic reasons for why someone would visit the emergency dentist’s office. As a good note, if you are not sure if you should visit one, but feel that you should, give them a call. They will be able to tell you if you should come right in or if your situation can wait until your regular dentists office opens up.

Screenings

So we all visit the dentist to get our teeth cleaned twice a year, and to sit nervously as we wait to see if there are any cavities, but did you know that your dentist’s office can do much more than just clean your teeth? When you visit the dentist they’re also checking not only your teeth, but also your gums. Your gums are the perfect place for periodontal disease and other diseases to hide, and if there is something to be found, your dentist can find them there. Not only can you be checked for disease, but also for cancer.

Even if you’ve never smoked, you may be at risk for oral cancer. There are many different risk factors for this type of cancer, and when you visit your dentist it is a good idea to ask to have an oral cancer screening done. The screening is quick and relatively painless but it can be a lifesaver. If your dentist diagnoses you with oral cancer they can treat it, and the faster it’s treated, the more likely you will be to keep the teeth that are in your mouth and to avoid having the cancer spread to other locations.

The dentist’s office may be scary for some people, but it is a great place to get a number of different things done, aside from simply cleanings and cavity checking. The next time you go to the dentist’s office, ask to have a cancer screening and discuss periodontal disease, because the more you know, the better care you can take of your teeth.

About the Author: Denver Smith has extensive experience in the dental field and actively consults in this industry

For the athlete that is forced to seek out sports medicine in Austin TX due to an athletic injury, one of the greatest fears can be the loss of muscle while healing and having to quickly regain that afterward. A recent study, though, found that muscle-building can be quicker and easier with the help of fat-free chocolate milk. When this liquid was ingested in the place of high-carb sports drinks, the results were astounding. The high concentrations of carbohydrates and protein are good indicators that this beverage would be a good one for refueling after a grueling workout. Studies also found that, as compared to those that stuck with the sports drinks, those who drank chocolate milk had increased muscle protein synthesis – that is that their muscles showed the ability to rebuild faster. The muscles tested in milk drinkers also showed a higher concentration of something called glycogen. This is a form of carbohydrate storage – body fuel – which is transformed into glucose when the body needs an additional pick up (like after a workout and during the muscle rebuilding process).

For those who fear that their athletic trainer might be upset over their athlete’s weight gain as a result of chugging chocolate milk, there is even better news to be reported. Chocolate milk has also been linked to weight loss when combined with an otherwise healthy lifestyle. It has been found that three eight-ounce glasses of chocolate milk per day – one in the morning, one before a workout, and one after the workout – can actually help a person shed body fat. Though losing fat doesn’t necessarily mean that you will lose weight, it is relatively certain that your trainer won’t mind the added muscle. Milk delivers a number of very essential vitamins and nutrients that lead to easier muscle building. The added Vitamin-D to your diet will improve energy levels and help prevent injury. The same vitamin is the one that helps break down the much needed dose of calcium that also comes with that tall glass of sweet and succulent goodness. Finally, in the effort to shed pounds – or keep them off – a person must turn to cardio exercise. In the same study it was found that athletes and non-athletes showed improved endurance and were able to walk, bike, or run almost fifty percent further with a steady intake of chocolate milk.

These are the bits of advice – the very tasty bits of advice – that can come with a trip to the nutritionist. So, next time it is suggested, don’t cringe, for you might just find that it is a delicious offering.

About the Author: Todd Keating is an expert in the sports medicine and is an active athletic trainer and sports coach

There’s one question that most people utter at least once in their lives: “Where do I go to get my car fixed?” While the specifics of which automobile repair shop depends on where you live, there are some things to look for in a quality repair facility. For instance, does the service center have a good reputation? Is it affiliated with AAA or does it have technicians certified by ASE? Is the service center clean and is it managed competently by a friendly staff?

If you live in Austin, Texas, you have a lot of choices in terms of auto mechanics. Some might say there are too many service repair shops from which to choose. First and foremost, you may want to get your car back to the dealer for repairs if your vehicle is still under warranty. Most new cars and even some used vehicles come with a bumper-to-bumper warranty that covers just about anything that can go wrong with a car. The length of time for these warranties depends on the manufacturer and dealership where you purchased the vehicle.

The problem for most people comes when the warranty period ends. When that happens, it’s not necessary for you to take the car to the dealership for repairs or maintenance. That’s when you can find an independent Austin mechanic that may be a little less expensive or one of the franchise of repair shops, like Monroe Muffler or another Automatic Transmission Repair in Austin, Texas. They tend to be more competitively priced than dealerships.

An independent car repair shop in Austin and custom repair shops are usually smaller, family owned and operated businesses. You tend to get a more personal level of service with these shops and you may even get the chance to talk with the technician yourself. You need to be careful though when choosing one of these car shops because they may not have the latest tools and equipment to work with, especially if you have a problem with your car that nobody seems to be able to diagnose. For the most part, these shops are great for the basic repairs and maintenance that your vehicles need.

What you need to avoid are the service and repair shops that don’t seen too concerned about their reputation or getting repeat customers. They are the ones that try to scam the most people possible in the shortest period of time. These businesses won’t be around a long time and are set up only to make money fast. They are often found in high-traffic areas where they can draw a lot of customers who happen to drive by. You need to watch out for them because the mechanics in these places try to scare customers into getting more repairs done than is required to fix the cars. Avoid these repair shops at all costs!

The best advice anyone can give you is to patronize an auto repair shop that your friends and family have recommended and keep returning to them if you are satisfied with the work they perform. That way, you’re getting to know them and they’re getting to know you and your car.

About the Author: Brandon Adams is the author of man popular articles on the automotive repair industry.

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Leonard’s Garage & Service Center
4401 South 1st Street
Austin, TX 78745-1924
(512) 445-2892

Leonard’s Garage & Service Center
4401 South 1st Street
Austin, TX 78745-1924
(512) 445-2892

Managing fibromyalgia and all of its related symptoms is often overwhelming and depressing for sufferers. So, even with the assistance of an Austin pain doctor, some patients have to look in other places for the answers they seek. Many of those answers are being found in the vitamin and supplement market. Congress has even recognized this movement and has created the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM). This group is in charge of evaluating many of the supplements and helping to define their actual areas of effectiveness.

5-HTP and Fibromyalgia Many fibromyalgia patients report that two major problems concerning them are their inability to sleep and daily fatigue. 5-HTP, which is more formally known as 5-Hydroxytryptophan has been reported to improve sleep, lessen nighttime pain, decrease fatigue, and help with the symptoms of depression and anxiety. As with all medications and supplements, it is wise to consult your primary care physician, fibromyalgia or headache specialist, as this and other supplements can react poorly with other medications and it has had a history of causing problems such as eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome (flu-like symptoms and rash). Though, it is thought that this latter side effect was due to contaminants in the supplement, rather than the product itself.

Melatonin and Pain ManagementThe natural hormone is winning some acclaim in circles of fibromyalgia patients. Melatonin is sold over the counter and is meant to create drowsiness, which assists with sleep. It is thought that sufferers of fibromyalgia have luck with this supplement because it improves sleep and cuts down on fatigue, which often causes the pain to be more unbearable. This medication should be taken at night, as it does cause drowsiness. It is also wise to avoid driving until the effects of the drug are clear.

St. John’s Wort, the Savior? Though depression is often deemed a symptom of fibromyalgia, there have been no reports that suggest that this supplement helps a fibromyalgia sufferer. In fact, some who have tested it have found patients complain of increased neck, head, and back pain. However, some still claim that it has been very effective in some patients and that it can be of great assistance to those who are suffering from depression as a result of the disease. Most trials have pointed to the fact that this supplement is as effective in fighting depression as some of the most commonly used prescription medications. It can, however, cause upset stomach, fatigue and rashes in some people, and it should never be mixed with prescription anti-depressants.

Alkaline Boosters and Pain Another supplement that is gaining ground in the fibromyalgia community is the alkaline booster. These supplements are intended to improve the pH balance of the body. A poor pH balance has been shown to be linked to infertility, increased illness, and mood alterations, among other things. It is even thought that an out of balance pH can cause a person to be more susceptible to cancer. Reports have shown that restoring the natural balance through diet and these supplements, energy levels are improved, pain levels are lowered and over-all mental well being is enhanced.

About the Author: Karen Prior has written extensively about the pain management industry and works hard to keep patients informed about the newest developments in pain management

Understanding the Eye The first step in understanding eye allergy is understanding the eye. Over the white of the eye and under the lids, there is a clear mucus membrane that is called the conjunctiva. For a glaucoma specialist, this is a mere window to what really matters, but for the allergy sufferer, it is that protective coating that is the target of the attack. Because the surface is constantly exposed to the environment around you, it is susceptible to anything that is airborne, including pollen, mold cells, and dander that are allergens. Because it is so exposed, it naturally has more histamine releasing cells, which means, that reaction can be instant. Other than this mucus layer, there are also the tear glands and the cornea, which can be affected when allergy attacks occur. The lacrimal glands (tear glands) are responsible for tear productions. Their job is to keep the eye clear of irritants, which means when those airborne, allergy inducers make their way to the conjunctiva, the glands go into full force. Finally, there is the cornea, which is the clear layer over the black lens of the eye. Fortunately, due to a lack of blood vessels in this area, few experience and bothersome effects in that region of the eye.

Allergic Eye Disease- The Facts There are more than one million allergy sufferers in the United States today and half of those report eye irritation during attacks. The statistics are equally as impressive right in Austin. Those symptoms are collectively known as allergic eye disease and are often associated with conditions like hay fever and eczema. The people that develop allergic eye disease typically have a history of one of these two conditions, or have come from a family with a history of allergy. Most will experience the first attach before the age of thirty. The severity of the condition can vary by a wide degree from person to person. Some will experience slight itching, burning, watering, or redness, while others can suffer such extreme swelling of the conjunctiva and eye lids that the eye can swell shut. By rubbing and itching, a sufferer can make the results worse, as well as the inflammation of the blood vessels, resulting in the look of blood shot eyes.

The Dangers There are a number of forms that this disease can take and even conditions that can result. The most common form of allergic eye disorder is allergic conjunctivitis. This is a seasonal condition that follows the same trend as hay fever. While most allergens that spur the eye reaction caused by this condition exist outdoors, the condition can take a slightly different form for those allergic to dust, mold and household pets. The histamine released causes the host of symptoms already discussed. The condition can be treated. There are a number of histamine blockers in the form of topical medications. Some people also resort to decongestants, or even the newest player, mast-cell stabilizers. There are also general antihistamines that can have a positive effect, including the well known Claritin and Zyrtec.

Conjunctivitis with atopic dermatitis is a mouthful to say, but is a second major disease causing annoying eye symptoms. This condition will result in swelling of the conjunctiva and the cornea. It is most common in young boys who have had a past history of eczema. The eye reacts by swelling severly. Red patches, scales, and crust may appear on the eyelids as well. This condition must be monitored because it can result in permanent changes in vision. These reactions are typically brought on by food allergies or airborne allergens. Topical antihistamines and mast-cell stabilizers are typically prescribed for patients suffering from this condition. Occasionally steroids are found to be needed. It is also important to note that a small percentage of cases, cataracts can form, leading to the need for surgery procedures like LASIK.

Another disease that is common in young men is vernal keratoconjunctivitis. This disease is not as common as the others, but does occur and is not pleasant. Fortunately, the condition is typically outgrown. The seasonal disease causes extreme itch, light sensitivity, and droopy eyelids. The eyes produce a stringy discharge and the results can be permanent visual impairment. Low does steroids can be used for short term periods and glasses should be worn to protect the eye from dust, debris and wind.

In most cases, eye allergies are easily treated without need for an Austin, TX, eye surgeon, but they should be cared for properly so no lasting damage can form. It is also wise for allergy sufferers to ensure the condition is under control before considering eye procedures, such as LASIK surgery.

About the Author: Mark Masters has authored may pieces on the eye care & surgery industry and enjoys keeping his readers up to date in this field

SXSW – A Quick Primer

SXSW stands for South by Southwest. It is a set of interactive, music, and film festivals, and conferences. These take place every spring in Austin and have since 1987. There are three different parts of SXSW – one for music, one for film, and one for the interactive conferences. Each part runs independently and has different start and end dates.

Since its start, SXSW has become one of the largest music festivals in the United States. It has over 2,000 performers who play in over 90 venues all over the downtown Austin area. And this all takes place in just four days in March! It is known as the highest revenue event for the Austin economy and has brought in millions upon millions of dollars. In 1994 the creators added the film and interactive conferences, and now it is on its way to becoming one of the premiere film festivals in the nation, due to focusing on new directing talent. The interactive conferences are designed for web creators and entrepreneurs and puts a spotlight on emerging technology. In fact one of the most well-known and recent social media applications, Twitter, actually launched at the SXSW interactive conference in 2007!

So how can you enjoy SXSW? If you’re new to the city, and just visiting for SXSW, one thing that you may want to keep in mind is that there will be many people who are also visiting the city at the same time. In order to truly make the most of the city, it is a good idea to get there a day early, or to plan on leaving a day after what you’ve come for is all over. This will give you a bit of time to familiarize yourself with the city and to see some of the other amazing things that Austin has to offer.

If you’re a native of the city, make sure you know what’s going on and where it’s going on. Keep a schedule with you of the events and plan out your parking, so that you don’t have to worry about getting into the middle of the city and having to pay outrageous prices to park your vehicle. Or, better yet, book a hotel room for yourself for the weekend – this will give you easy access to everything that is going on and will be almost like a mini-vacation as well!