Baking Soda for treating Failing Kidneys

Baking soda is known to be useful for cooking, cleaning, treating sunburn and kidney health? New research suggests sodium bicarbonate, or baking soda, may slow the progression of chronic kidney disease.

Researchers studied 134 patients with advanced chronic kidney disease and low bicarbonate levels. Patients were divided into two groups, one receiving a small daily dose of sodium bicarbonate in tablet form, and the other continuing their routine treatment. In the group receiving the baking soda tablets, the decline in kidney function was reduced by two-thirds. Only 9 percent of those taking the tablets experienced a rapid progression of kidney disease, compared with 45 percent in the second group.

Baking soda may be an inexpensive and simple way to treat patients with chronic kidney disease. However, researchers note during the study, they were aware of which patients received the tablets and there was no placebo group. Future studies will be necessary for validation.

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Dental implants

Dental implants are changing the way people live! They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth which look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved.

What are Dental Implants?
The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts which are inserted into the jawbone where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Small posts are then attached to the implant which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.

Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration which occurs when teeth are missing.

The Surgical Procedure
For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants integrate with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, your dentist is forming new replacement teeth.

After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. The dentist uncovers the implants and attaches small posts which will act as anchors for the artificial teeth. These posts protrude through the gums. When the artificial teeth are installed, these posts will not be seen. The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients do not experience any disruption of their daily life.

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