In today’s unpredictable economic climate, investors are increasingly turning to precious metals as a means to safeguard their wealth and diversify their portfolios. Gold, in particular, has long been regarded as a store of value and a hedge against inflation and economic turmoil. When considering gold as an investment, individuals often face a critical choice: Should they invest in a Gold IRA (Individual Retirement Account) or acquire physical gold? Each option has its advantages and drawbacks, and understanding the nuances between the two is crucial for making an informed investment decision.

The Case for Physical Gold

Investing in physical gold means purchasing tangible gold coins, bars, or bullion. This form of investment has a long history, dating back to ancient civilizations, and it continues to be a favored choice for those who value the tangibility and security of owning physical assets.

Advantages of Physical Gold:

1. Tangible Asset: One of the most appealing aspects of investing in physical gold is the tangible nature of the asset. You can hold your gold in your hands, store it in a secure location of your choice, and have direct control over its ownership.
2. Privacy and Control: Acquiring physical gold offers a level of privacy and control that other investment vehicles, like Gold IRAs, may not provide. You are not required to report your holdings to any government agency.
3. No Counterparty Risk: Physical gold doesn’t rely on any financial institution or intermediary. This eliminates counterparty risk, making it immune to banking or financial crises.
4. Historical Value: Gold has maintained its value for thousands of years, which makes it a trusted hedge against inflation and economic instability. This long history of preserving wealth is a compelling reason for investors to hold physical gold.
5. Portfolio Diversification: Physical gold can be a valuable addition to a diversified investment portfolio, especially when used in combination with other assets like stocks and bonds. Its low correlation with traditional investments can help reduce overall portfolio risk.

Challenges of Physical Gold:

1. Storage and Security: Owning physical gold requires secure storage. Many investors choose to keep their gold in bank vaults or private safes, which may incur additional costs. Ensuring the security of your investment is crucial.
2. Illiquidity: Selling physical gold can be less straightforward than selling stocks or other financial assets. Finding a reputable buyer and negotiating a fair price can take time and effort.
3. Transaction Costs: When purchasing physical gold, you may encounter transaction costs such as premiums over the spot price, taxes, and shipping fees. These costs can impact the overall return on your investment.
4. Risk of Theft: Physical gold is susceptible to theft, which is why it’s essential to take security measures seriously. Investing in a high-quality safe and considering insurance coverage can mitigate this risk.
5. Lack of Income: Unlike some investments, such as dividend-paying stocks or bonds, physical gold does not generate income. Its value relies solely on price appreciation.

The Case for Gold IRAs

A Gold IRA, on the other hand, is a specialized retirement account that allows investors to hold precious metals like gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. These accounts are administered by custodians who specialize in alternative assets and adhere to strict IRS regulations.

Advantages of Gold IRAs:

1. Tax Benefits: Gold IRAs offer unique tax advantages that can help investors preserve more of their wealth. When structured as a Traditional or Roth IRA, investors can enjoy tax-deferred growth or tax-free withdrawals, respectively.
2. Professional Custodians: Gold IRAs are managed by experienced custodians who are well-versed in IRS regulations governing precious metals in retirement accounts. They ensure compliance with all reporting and storage requirements.
3. Diversification within Retirement Accounts: By including precious metals in your retirement portfolio, you can diversify your holdings within a tax-advantaged account. This diversification can help protect your retirement savings from market volatility.
4. Liquidity: Selling precious metals within a Gold IRA is typically more straightforward than selling physical gold. The custodian can assist in the sale process, making it easier to access your funds when needed.
5. Secure Storage: Gold IRAs require precious metals to be stored in approved depositories, which are often highly secure and insured. This eliminates the need for investors to worry about personal storage and security.

Challenges of Gold IRAs:

1. Custodial Fees: Gold IRAs may come with custodial fees, including annual maintenance fees and storage costs. These fees can vary depending on the custodian and the size of your account.
2. Limited Access: Funds held in a Gold IRA are intended for retirement, so early withdrawals can result in penalties and taxes. This limited access can be a drawback for investors who may need the funds before retirement age.
3. Complexity: Setting up and maintaining a Gold IRA can be more complex than purchasing physical gold. Investors must adhere to IRS regulations, and not all custodians offer the same level of service and expertise.
4. Market Risk: While gold is generally considered a safe-haven asset, its price can still fluctuate. A Gold IRA is not immune to market risk, and investors may experience gains or losses based on the performance of the precious metals.

Choosing the Right Option for You

The decision between investing in physical gold or opening a Gold IRA ultimately depends on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and personal preferences. It’s important to weigh the advantages and challenges of each option carefully.

If you value physical ownership and control over your assets, and you are comfortable with the responsibility of secure storage, then acquiring physical gold may align with your investment objectives. This approach can be particularly appealing if you seek privacy and wish to diversify your assets beyond traditional investments.

On the other hand, if you are primarily interested in the long-term preservation of wealth within a tax-advantaged retirement account, a Gold IRA may be the better choice. It offers tax benefits, professional custodians, and simplified access to liquidity while still allowing you to diversify your retirement portfolio with precious metals.

It’s worth noting that some investors choose a combination of both options, holding physical gold outside of their retirement accounts for immediate access and a Gold IRA for long-term retirement savings.

We will delve deeper into the practical considerations and steps involved in both investing in physical gold and establishing a Gold IRA. We will provide insights into the purchasing process, storage and security measures, as well as the nuances of managing a Gold IRA within the framework of IRS regulations. By the end of this guide, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision regarding your precious metals investment strategy.

We explored the advantages and challenges of investing in physical gold versus opening a Gold IRA (Individual Retirement Account). Now, let’s delve deeper into the practical considerations and steps involved in both approaches, helping you make an informed decision about your precious metals investment strategy.

Investing in Physical Gold: Practical Considerations

When choosing to invest in physical gold, there are several practical aspects to consider:

1. Purchasing Physical Gold:

• Bullion Dealers: To acquire physical gold, you can turn to reputable bullion dealers, local coin shops, or online precious metals retailers. Ensure that the dealer is well-established and has a track record of integrity.
• Coins or Bars: You have the option to invest in gold coins or bars. Coins, like American Eagles or Canadian Maple Leafs, are often more recognizable and easier to trade. Bars, however, may have lower premiums over the spot price.
• Authentication: Be cautious of counterfeit products. It’s advisable to purchase gold from trusted sources and verify the authenticity of the items you acquire.

2. Secure Storage:

• Home Storage: If you choose to store your gold at home, invest in a high-quality safe. Consider installing security measures such as alarms and surveillance systems to safeguard your investment.
• Bank Safe Deposit Box: Some investors prefer storing their gold in a bank safe deposit box. While this option provides security, it may come with limitations on accessibility.

3. Insurance:

• Consider insuring your physical gold against theft, damage, or loss. Insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection in case of unforeseen events.

4. Record-keeping:

• Maintain detailed records of your physical gold purchases, including invoices, certificates of authenticity, and any relevant documentation. This documentation may be essential for insurance claims or resale.

5. Selling Physical Gold:

• When selling your physical gold, research reputable buyers or dealers. Obtain multiple quotes to ensure you receive a fair market price.
• Be prepared to pay any applicable capital gains tax on any profits from the sale, depending on your local tax laws.

Investing in a Gold IRA: Practical Considerations

Opening a Gold IRA involves a more structured process, and there are specific steps to follow:

1. Choose a Custodian:

• Select a reputable precious metals custodian that offers Gold IRAs. Ensure they are well-versed in IRS regulations governing precious metals in retirement accounts.
• Research and compare custodial fees, including annual maintenance fees and storage costs. These fees can vary among custodians.

2. Fund Your Gold IRA:

• Transfer Funds: If you already have an existing IRA or retirement account, you can transfer funds into your Gold IRA. This is known as a “rollover” or “transfer.”
• Contribute: If you don’t have an existing retirement account, you can contribute to your Gold IRA annually, following IRS contribution limits.

3. Select Precious Metals:

• Work with your custodian to choose the specific precious metals you wish to hold in your Gold IRA. Ensure they meet IRS purity standards.

4. Storage and Reporting:

• Precious metals held in a Gold IRA must be stored in approved depositories. The custodian will handle storage arrangements, which are typically secure and insured.
• Maintain records of your Gold IRA transactions for tax reporting purposes. Custodians often provide regular statements.

5. Distributions:

• Keep in mind that Gold IRAs are intended for retirement savings. Early withdrawals before the age of 59½ may result in penalties and taxes unless they meet specific IRS exceptions.

6. Stay Informed:

• Stay updated on changes in IRS regulations and precious metals market trends. Your custodian should assist with compliance, but it’s essential to be aware of any updates that may affect your Gold IRA.

Conclusion

In summary, the choice between investing in physical gold and opening a Gold IRA depends on your individual financial goals, risk tolerance, and preferences. Physical gold offers tangible ownership and control but requires secure storage and may be less liquid. In contrast, a Gold IRA provides tax benefits, professional custodians, and easier access to liquidity but comes with custodial fees and limited early withdrawal options.

Some investors opt for a combination of both approaches to diversify their precious metals holdings. Whichever path you choose, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research, work with reputable sources, and maintain a clear understanding of IRS regulations and tax implications.

Ultimately, the decision should align with your long-term financial objectives and retirement planning. By carefully considering the advantages and challenges of each option and following the practical steps outlined in this guide, you can make an informed and strategic choice for your precious metals investment journey.

In an ever-changing global economic landscape, diversifying one’s investment portfolio is not just a strategy; it’s a necessity. One of the most intriguing and historically resilient forms of investment is precious metals, specifically gold and silver. For those with a 401k plan, the idea of converting some or all of its value into these tangible assets can be both appealing and daunting. In this article, we’ll delve deep into the process, benefits, and considerations one must keep in mind when making this transition.

Understanding the Basics of 401k and Precious Metals

So many new customers that have their retirement with companies like Vanguard are scrambling to get exposure to precious metals and they are wanting to know, does Vanguard offer gold and silver backed IRAs?  Well, before making any rash decisions, they should learn more about diving into the conversion process, it’s crucial to understand the foundational elements of both the 401k plan and precious metal investments.

A 401k is a retirement savings plan sponsored by employers. It allows workers to save and invest a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out. The funds in a 401k are typically invested in a mix of stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. Over time, the goal is for these investments to grow and provide a nest egg for retirement.

On the other hand, gold and silver are tangible assets. Their value doesn’t rely on a company’s performance or the promises of a government. Historically, they’ve served as a hedge against inflation and currency fluctuations. In times of economic uncertainty, their value often remains stable or even increases, making them an attractive option for those looking to safeguard their wealth.

Why Convert 401k to Gold and Silver?

1. Hedge Against Economic Uncertainty: As mentioned, gold and silver have historically been safe havens during economic downturns. When stock markets are volatile, the value of precious metals tends to remain more stable. By converting a portion of your 401k into gold and silver, you’re diversifying your portfolio and potentially protecting it from severe market downturns.
2. Protection Against Inflation: Precious metals, especially gold, have been known to keep pace with inflation. As the cost of goods and services rises, the purchasing power of paper currency can decrease. However, gold and silver can act as a store of value, ensuring that your wealth doesn’t erode over time.
3. Tangible Assets: Unlike stocks or bonds, gold and silver are tangible assets. You can hold them in your hand, store them in a safe, or keep them in a secured vault. This tangibility provides a sense of security that paper assets can’t offer.

The Conversion Process

Converting your 401k to gold IRA isn’t as straightforward as selling stocks and buying bullion. There are specific steps and considerations to keep in mind:

1. Check Your 401k Plan: Not all 401k plans allow for investments in precious metals. Before making any moves, review your plan’s documentation or speak with your plan administrator to determine if such a conversion is possible.
2. Consider a Gold IRA: If your current 401k doesn’t support precious metal investments, you might think about rolling over your 401k into a Gold Individual Retirement Account (IRA). A Gold IRA is a self-directed IRA that allows for investments in physical gold, silver, and other precious metals. This rollover is a tax-free process, but it’s essential to ensure that the transition is done correctly to avoid any penalties.
3. Choose a Reputable Custodian: For a Gold IRA, you’ll need a custodian to manage the account. This entity is responsible for the storage, security, and insurance of your precious metals. It’s crucial to choose a custodian with a solid reputation, transparent fee structure, and excellent customer service.
4. Select Your Precious Metals: Once your Gold IRA is set up, you can choose the specific gold and silver products you want to invest in. These can range from bullion bars to coins. Ensure that the products you select are IRA-approved, as not all gold and silver products qualify.
5. Storage Considerations: Your Gold IRA custodian will typically offer storage solutions. Most investors opt for segregated storage, where their gold and silver are stored separately from other investors’ assets. This type of storage might come at a higher cost, but it ensures that your precious metals are uniquely identifiable and not co-mingled with others.

In the journey of converting your 401k to gold and silver, knowledge is your most valuable asset. By understanding how to invest in gold with a 401k the reasons for such a conversion and the steps involved, you’re well on your way to making informed decisions that can potentially safeguard your wealth for years to come.

The Nuances of Converting 401k to Gold and Silver

As we continue our exploration into the realm of converting your 401k to gold and silver, it’s essential to delve into the more intricate details. This transition, while potentially beneficial, is not without its complexities. Let’s tackle some of the more nuanced aspects and address common questions that arise during this process.

Tax Implications and Penalties

One of the primary concerns when making any significant changes to a retirement account is the potential tax implications. When done correctly, converting your 401k to a Gold IRA can be a tax-free process. However, missteps can lead to unnecessary penalties.

1. Direct Rollover: This is the most straightforward method. If your 401k plan allows for a direct rollover to a Gold IRA, the funds move directly from one account to the other without you ever touching the money. This method ensures that no taxes or penalties are incurred.
2. 60-Day Rollover: If a direct rollover isn’t possible, you might receive a check for your 401k funds. You then have 60 days to deposit this amount into a Gold IRA. Failing to do so within this timeframe can result in taxes and early withdrawal penalties.
3. Age Considerations: Remember, IRAs, including Gold IRAs, have rules about withdrawals. Typically, you can’t withdraw funds without penalties until you’re 59½ years old. There are exceptions, but it’s crucial to be aware of this to avoid unexpected costs.

The Importance of Market Timing

While gold and silver are historically stable investments, their prices do fluctuate. When considering a conversion, it’s essential to keep an eye on market trends. Converting when precious metal prices are lower can maximize the amount of gold and silver you receive for your funds. However, predicting market movements is more art than science, blending economic insights with a touch of intuition.

FAQ Section

• Q: Can I convert only a portion of my 401k to gold and silver?
  • A: Absolutely. You don’t need to convert your entire 401k. Many investors choose to diversify by allocating a specific percentage of their 401k to precious metals while keeping the rest in traditional investments.
• Q: Are there annual fees associated with a Gold IRA?
  • A: Yes, Gold IRAs come with annual fees, which can include storage, insurance, and custodian fees. It’s essential to understand these fees upfront to make an informed decision.
• Q: Can I store my gold and silver at home?
  • A: While you might feel a certain allure to holding your assets physically, IRS regulations require that precious metals in an IRA be stored in an approved depository. Storing them at home could lead to disqualification of the IRA and potential tax implications.
• Q: What happens when I want to liquidate my Gold IRA assets?
  • A: When you’re ready to make withdrawals or liquidate, you can sell your precious metals through your IRA custodian. They’ll handle the sale, and the proceeds can be either disbursed to you or reinvested into other assets within the IRA.
• Q: Are there any risks associated with a Gold IRA?
  • A: Like all investments, there are risks. While gold and silver have historically held their value, there’s no guarantee of future performance. It’s essential to view a Gold IRA as a long-term investment and part of a diversified portfolio.

If you have made it this far, congratulations.  Now you know about adding a sparkle to your portfolio with a gold investment.  In the intricate dance of financial planning, converting a 401k to gold and silver is a move that requires both knowledge and finesse. By understanding the deeper nuances and addressing common concerns, you equip yourself with the tools to navigate this journey with confidence and clarity. Remember, in both the world of finance and martial arts, knowledge, preparation, and timing are key.

As wars, economic crises, and other forms of geopolitical unrest hit the world, most people are devastated but not gold investors. If anything, such calamities are all favorites among gold investors. Not because they are atrocious, but because they want to see their metal appreciate in value.

Investors, like all other people, are terrified of civil wars, border conflicts, and terrorist attacks. This prompts them to place their money in safe havens like gold and reliable government debt, the most popular being US Treasuries. And they are shrewd in doing so. How so?

Looking at the past, Gold has proven to appreciate in value amidst global tragedy. A perfect example of this is the period between 1970 and 1980, a time when there was a series of upheavals in the Middle East. Some calamities included the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, the Iran-Iraq War, and the Iranian Revolution.

Consequently, gold surged in value by 23 percent in 1977, 37 percent in 1978, and a whopping 126 percent in 1979, the year of the Iranian hostage crisis! That’s not all. After the United States launched bombs in Libya in 1986, gold soared in value. This happened shortly after the Gulf War in 1990, and when ISIS attacks threatened Middle Eastern oil supply

Even in the 21st century, history repeats itself. In September 2020, gold hit a new high of $2,034 per ounce, owing to fears of the coronavirus spreading and wreaking havoc on the economy.

Fortunately for savvy investors there is an option to benefit from this trouble and to do so in a tax efficient manner with a gold IRA.  A gold IRA is a tax deferred savings account that allows you to hold precious metals.  While there are many companies that can help you set up a gold IRA, there is one that is better than the rest and that is Blanchard Gold.  To understand how you can benefit from rising gold prices from political chaos, read this Blanchard Gold review.  Alright, now back to the article.

Besides COVID-19, there are many hot spots across the world today that might quickly erupt into a conflagration that grows into a shooting war or even the dreaded scenario of missiles being launched.

Notable ones include a migrant crisis in Belarus, which Ukrainian officials believe is a tactic devised by Russia to stage a Ukrainian invasion. This replicates what happened in 2014 when Russian forces annexed Crimea. Others are tensions between the US, China, and its neighbors over Taiwan; and finally, the threat of a war between North and South Korea, which would naturally draw in the US.

Here’s a formula for starting a war with a high chance of success: send thousands of migrants to your border, push them into the neighboring country, then fire warning shots as your neighbor’s forces try to keep the migrants out of their nation. In such a stressful circumstance, soldiers from the opposing countries may mistake the shots and shoot back, resulting in a war.

Unfortunately, such an accidental clash is now a real possibility on Belarus’s border with Poland. What will NATO’s response be if this occurs? As fears grow that Russia is ready to attack Ukraine, the subject has baffled the US and other NATO members. Following war games in western Russia earlier this year, officials claim Moscow has retained approximately 90,000 troops in the area.

Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraine’s president claimed that his country’s intelligence service had discovered plans for a Russian-backed coup, an allegation Moscow rejects. Denys Shmygal, Ukraine’s prime minister reiterated the situation at hand by saying that a Russian military build-up on Ukraine’s border, the second since May, was part of a larger Russian campaign to derail Ukraine’s progress toward EU membership.

How did it all start? The problem began some weeks ago when Belarus began flying in Middle Eastern migrants to the capital, Minsk. They transported the migrants to the border, where they have been attempting to enter neighboring counties like Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia, while living in appalling conditions.

On November 9, the Polish Ministry of Defense published a video showing 3,000 to 4,000 migrants camped on the Belarusian side of the border fence, waiting to cross into Poland, which is a member of the European Union. After video footage, the day before showed migrants cutting razor wire and attempting to climb over walls. In response, border guards and Polish police were outfitted with anti-riot gear.

As if that’s not enough, the military is also involved in the situation. Belarusian soldiers threatened to fire on Polish forces but instead fired blanks following the incident. Soldiers from Poland retaliated by firing into the air. Consider that Belarus’s long-serving president, Aleksandr Lukashenko, is a close ally of Russia and appears to relish challenging NATO.

Russia and Belarus declared on November 11 that they will begin combat alert patrols along their borders with Ukraine, Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia. On the same day, Russian nuclear bombers flew over Belarusian airspace on a monitoring mission.

Ukraine is said to have sent 8,500 troops to the Belarusian border in preparation for a confrontation with Russia. Even though Russia invaded Ukraine and annexed the Crimean peninsula nearly eight years ago, we must remember that the battle is far from done.

Russian backed a separatist conflict that erupted in Eastern Ukraine weeks after Ukraine’s Moscow-friendly president was thrown from power by huge demonstrations in 2014. According to ABC News, more than 14,000 people have perished in the conflict, which has ravaged Ukraine’s eastern industrial heartland known as Donbas for seven years.

Luckily, large-scale conflicts ceased, all thanks to a 2015 peace accord signed by France and Germany, but efforts to reach a political settlement have failed, and isolated clashes have occurred along the sensitive line of contact. Moreover, Russia has turned down recent offers to meet with France and Germany.

Russia, unsurprisingly, sees the situation through a different lens, accusing NATO of behaving forcefully in Moscow’s backyard. According to Reuters, Putin reportedly outlined out Russia’s “red lines” on Ukraine, saying that if NATO put powerful missile systems on its neighbor’s soil, Russia would be forced to respond. Recent NATO drills with nuclear-capable aircraft flew as near as 20 kilometers from the Russian border.

The country asserts its right to station troops anywhere it wants on its own soil. According to a report by the Council on Foreign Relations, Ukraine is critical to Putin’s plans to revive the old empire and provide “strategic depth” against Western invasion.

Defense One, on the other hand, claims that Russia is unlikely to invade and occupy Ukraine, noting the fact that Kiev now has a capable military and that Russia does not desire another costly guerilla war like Afghanistan in the 1980s.

Note that the only countries invaded by Putin are Ukraine and Georgia, both of which are non-NATO members. Ukraine’s pro-Western President Zelensky has attempted but failed, to persuade NATO to include Ukraine. Most members, including the United States, do not want to expand the alliance into a country that is embroiled in a conflict with Russia for fear of being sucked into the conflict.

In terms of what the US, as the unofficial NATO leader and a Ukraine ally, can do to assist Ukraine without providing an Article V guarantee, the country has continued to send military aid ($2.5 billion) since 2014. According to the Council on Foreign Relations, the US should use economic power as well, by reimposing sanctions on the recently built Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline.

The Biden administration removed sanctions on the business developing the pipeline that will transport gas from Russia beneath the Baltic Sea to Germany earlier this year, deeming the project a done deal.

Different Tools Dentists Use

Being able to maintain a healthy mouth requires a lot of dedication on behalf of yourself. Maintaining an effective and consistent brushing and flossing routine is key. However, it is also important to get professional cleanings throughout the year. Typically, it is recommended that you get at least two professional cleanings throughout the year. That being said, some might need more depending on their genetics and oral health. When you visit the dentist, you will be greeted with a lot of tools and instruments that dentists use. By being familiar with the tools that are used during teeth cleanings and other dental procedures, you might be less anxious when the time comes. Below, we will be going over some of the different tools that dentists use during checkups, cleanings, and other procedures.

Dentist Tools:

1. Scaler

This is one of the tools that dentists use during professional cleanings. A scaler might look intimidating, but it is a very safe and effective tool used for scraping off tartar and plaque buildup on the teeth and along the gumlines. There is a pointed end that is meant to clean anything above the gum line and the curved edge is meant to clean effectively below it without injuring the gums. These tools are used to manually scrape the teeth unlike some of the other tools. Thus, they are usually used at the end of cleanings to ensure that everything that is remaining is removed.

A dental scaler is going to be very effective at not only removing stains, tartar, and plaque from the surface of the teeth, but it will also be a very effective tool that can be used to prevent periodontal disease.

2. Ultrasonic Scalers

These are what is most commonly used throughout a majority of the treatment. Ultrasonic scalers like the ones used at your local dentist are meant to get rid of the majority of the plaque and tartar buildup because it is very effective at doing so. Along with this, this automatic scale is much more efficient due to the ultrasonic vibrations.

3. Mirror

Another tool that is typically used throughout the entire cleaning is a mirror. A dental mirror is one of the most important (if not the most important) tools that will be used throughout the entire cleaning. The reason a mirror is so important is that it gives the hygienist and dentist the ability to look around the surfaces of your teeth and along your gumline. Without having a mirror, you wouldn’t be able to see the back of your teeth or throughout other areas of your mouth. These mirrors are typically used in conjunction with reflecting light which can help to maximize visibility throughout your entire mouth allowing the hygienists to be able to see where there are plaque and tartar buildup much easier.

4. Explorer

Another common tool that a dentist uses when you are getting a checkup would be an explorer. This is regularly used in order to check for the density of your tooth and to look for cavities. When the dentist is going through after getting your tooth cleaning and checking your teeth individually, they are using an explorer. This allows them to check for fractures, plaque, and more.

5. Suction

This is another device that you should be familiar with as it is used throughout your dental cleaning. A suction device is used to help vacuum out the excess saliva in your mouth. Along with this, it is used to help vacuum out the excess water that is used throughout the entire treatment. That way, it can help to keep your mouth dry during the treatment so they will be able to perform the cleaning properly. It can also make it much more comfortable during the cleaning because the device will be vacuuming out saliva and water that might otherwise cause you to swallow frequently during the cleaning.

6. Water and Air Syringe

This is another tool that is used throughout the treatment which is meant to help squirt water onto your teeth and into your mouth. The hygienist is going to use this device when they are needing to spray your teeth and gums during the cleaning. They will need to spray in order to get rid of debris that needs to be removed. This is why during the cleanings you might have the hygienist sprat your mouth and ask you to close it so the suction can get rid of it. The air spray portion of the device is used to effectively dry your mouth and your teeth when needed.

You can learn more about Air and Water Syringes here.

7. Polisher

This is a tool that is used in order to apply the polishing paste to your teeth. The hygienist will put the polishing paste on it to polish your teeth. The paste is mildly abrasive which will allow it to effectively remove hard to get rid of plaque and stains on your teeth. Because of its design, it is not going to harm your teeth and it is painless and effective at making your teeth cleaner.

8. X-Ray Machine

If you visit the dentist, you are likely going to be asked to get x-rays frequently. X-rays are used to identify issues with your mouth and your oral health. X-rays can be very effective at identifying issues with your teeth and gums. They can even be used to spot problem areas and to identify tooth decay or impacted teeth. Because of the number of problems they can help a dentist identify that they wouldn’t be able to without, they are a very important component of proper oral care and maintenance. You will get an x-ray performed yearly to ensure that your mouth is completely healthy. They might even request that you get x-rays done even more frequently if you have specific risk factors. Some of the common risk factors might be signs or genetics pointing to oral disease, your age, a history of cavities or gum disease, or even the current state of your oral health.

9. Excavators

A dentist will use excavators when they are dealing with cavities or tooth decay. A spoon excavator will be used to remove soft decay. Whereas, dental hatchers will be used in order to widen the entrance of a cavity to get rid of some of the enamel.

10. Local Anesthesia

This is an anesthetic drug that is used to effectively numb the mouth. This is likely to be used for various procedures including but not limited to tooth extraction or something else. It is meant to minimize the pain or discomfort that a patient would experience from the procedure. With local anesthesia, the patient remains in an awake state while sedated.

Overall, there are so many different kinds of instruments and tools that are regularly used throughout your dental cleanings. If you are someone that has always been curious to know about them or even fearful of the dentist because of the unknown, you should feel at ease. Each of these tools are safe and effective. Each tool serves a specific purpose and when combined together form a very powerful arsenal for your hygienist and dentist to use to keep your mouth as healthy as possible. Maintaining a healthy mouth is crucial to your overall health. A lot of diseases is rooted in dental problems. Thus, keeping your oral hygiene as optimal as possible is key to maintaining your general health. Because of this, you want to visit your dentist a minimum of every six months to ensure that you are getting professional cleanings to keep your oral hygiene in optimal shape.

Being able to maintain a healthy mouth requires a lot of dedication on behalf of yourself. Maintaining an effective and consistent brushing and flossing routine is key. However, it is also important to get professional cleanings throughout the year. Typically, it is recommended that you get at least two professional cleanings throughout the year. That being said, some might need more depending on their genetics and oral health. When you visit the dentist, you will be greeted with a lot of tools and instruments that dentists use. By being familiar with the tools that are used during teeth cleanings and other dental procedures, you might be less anxious when the time comes. Below, we will be going over some of the different tools that dentists use during checkups, cleanings, and other procedures.

You Need To Floss Your Teeth

Everyone has heard that you need to floss your teeth a million times.

You have been hearing it from the dentist and the dental hygienist your entire life, every time you go in to have a regular cleaning.

And if you are like most people, you do not floss your teeth regularly.  You completely forget about flossing your teeth until about a day or two before your next dentist cleaning.  You try to floss your teeth and your gums bleed.

Your gums bleed because you do not floss your teeth regularly.  And your gums bleed when the dentist flosses your teeth and you think going to the dentist is painful.  Because you never floss your teeth.

You have no one but your self to blame.

Flossing your teeth is the single most important thing you can do to prevent cavities.  No matter how much you brush your teeth, you can not get the food matter that gets wedge between your teeth from eating, out.  The only way to get the stuff stuck between your teeth is to FLOSS.

If you do not floss, that food material breaks down and essentially starts to rot.  This rot infects the enamel in the two teeth it is stuck between.  The next thing you know, you have not just one, but two cavities.

All because you would not floss your teeth.

So how can you overcome your ability to not floss your teeth.  How can you start the habit of flossing everyday.

Well, I do not know for sure.  I don’t think there is one fool proof way that will work for everyone.  I think most folks won’t floss their teeth no matter what.

The best idea I’ve ever heard to get someone to start flossing is to start with one tooth.

Just start flossing one tooth.  Not very complicated, eh?

Start flossing one tooth every night.

The idea is that you will start to see how nice and clean that one tooth feel and you will start to floss your other teeth.  Eventually you will start flossing all your teeth and the next thing you know you will have developed a healthy habit.

This may work for you, it may not.

Just remember, figure out what works for you, to get you started flossing everyday.

Your smile will be better, your teeth cleaner, and you’ll be happier, the sooner you start flossing.

Good luck!

People need to be aware of taking care of their teeth on a regular basis. They should brush and floss their teeth twice a day and visit their dentist for checkups and cleaning. Since this is what they need to do for good oral health, it is important that they follow these suggestions to deal with tooth decay in a proper way.

Healthy Teeth

People that have healthy teeth are usually taking good care of them. They brush them twice a day and they floss properly. Since this is known to keep the mouth and teeth in good shape, they don’t get cavities as much as the people that do not follow these suggestions.

Tooth Decay

When people do not brush their teeth or floss them regularly, they have a greater chance of getting cavities because of tooth decay. This is when the food particles are left on the teeth and they cause permanent damage on the hard parts of the teeth. It will affect the enamel of the teeth and cause a hole which is a cavity. When this happens, the cavity will need to be filled.

Why Does This Happen To Teeth?

The major reason that cavities occur is because a person doesn’t brush and floss their teeth. They are caused by eating and drinking sugary foods, sticky foods, and beverages that are filled with carbohydrates and sugar. This sticks to the enamel of the teeth and eventually wears a hole in it.

Every time that a person eats a snack that is filled with sugar, it stays there for 20 minutes. Eating lots of these snacks will give cavities a chance to form.

Over time, the hole in the tooth can get bigger and bigger until the tooth is destroyed. This can result in a lot of pain for a person and they may also have trouble when they are eating.

Fixing Cavities

The person that has problems with their tooth will notice pain probably that will have them seeing their dentist. After a thorough checkup, they will remove the parts of the tooth that have the decay and they will use a filling to the repair the hole in the tooth. People that do not have their teeth filled when they need to have them filled will have more problems down the line. They will deal with a lot more pain and gum disease if they do not get the work that is needed completed.

People need to make sure that they take the proper care of their teeth. By setting up a routine for when they get up in the morning and before they go to bed at night, they will brush and floss their teeth on a regular basis. By also visiting their dentist, their teeth should stay good and strong for a long time to come. By developing these good habits when a person is young, they will carry them with them into adulthood so that their oral health will be kept at its best.

Photo by Timothy Dykes on Unsplash

Many people use mouthwash to make their breath smell cleaner. They feel more confident about themselves when they are out in public for personal and professional events when they have to be up close to other people with breath that smells fresh. In some cases, people use mouthwash because their dentists have advised them to for their oral health.

What Is Mouthwash?

It is a liquid that is held in the mouth and swilled around or it can be gargled. Most of the mouthwashes are antiseptics that help to get rid of the bacteria in the mouth that can cause bad breath. It is common for people to use it once or twice a day. When they get up in the morning, they brush and floss their teeth first and then they use a mouthwash.

There Are Many Kinds Of Mouthwash

Many people have heard of Listerine and Scope but there many other types of mouthwash that they can also use. They should go by what their dentist says to use. Their dentist may want them to use a special mouthwash that can assist them with the oral health.

It Can Assist With Protection From Tooth Decay And Cavities

People can use mouthwash as an aid in helping to prevent tooth decay and cavities. This doesn’t take the place of brushing and flossing. They will want to do all three in order to keep their teeth free from cavities. They should also make sure that they visit a dentist for cleanings and checkups. This is important so that the dentist can make sure that there are not any problems with their gums or teeth.

Mouthwashes Have A Flavor To Them

In order to make them easy for people to use, the mouthwashes will have a flavor to them. This makes it easier for some people when they are rinsing their mouths out. They like the flavor that it gives to them so they will remember to do it often. In many cases, mouthwashes contain alcohol and without the flavoring, they give a bland taste in the mouth. They are not meant to be swallowed but people can buy non-alcohol based mouthwashes too.

The Costs Of Mouthwashes

People will find that the mouthwashes on the market are reasonably priced. They can also shop for discounts, use coupons, take advantage of promotions and special offers to bring the price down for mouthwash when they want to buy it. Sometimes, they can find a buy one and get one free offer so that they can stock up on their favorite mouthwash so they always have some on hand for the future.

For a lot of reasons, people are using mouthwash more and more so that they can have fresh smelling breath. Since it also helps in ways to protect from germs that can linger in the mouth, it is also good for their oral health. By brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash, they will be able to have a great smile for a long time to come.

Mouthwash Instructional video from Carbon Coco on Vimeo.

Activities

Activities of APERA aim to promote educational research, knowledge advancement and policymaking such that reform efforts and education practices in the new century are optimized and rationalized, substantively and instrumentally, through concerted efforts of researchers, educators, and policy-makers for the benefits of our next generation.

APERA offers its members many opportunities for networking, collaboration, research and publication. Examples of activities include participation and contributions to APERA annual conference, journal publications, book series publications, research handbook publications, research students awards, research interest groups, electronic newsletter.

APERA-TERA 2016 Conference

The 2016 International Conference of Asia Pacific Educational Research Association & Taiwan Education Research Association (APERA-TERA 2016), which was successfully held in National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan from 10-12 November 2016. The conference theme was “Towards a Future Utopia: 21st Century Educational Revolution. For details, please visit the APERA-TERA 2016 website:

APERA-HKERA 2014 Conference

The Asia Pacific Educational Research Association & the Hong Kong Educational Research Association (APERA-HKERA) 2014 International Conference, which was successfully held in the Hong Kong Institute of Education, Hong Kong from 19-21 November 2014. The conference theme was “Managing Global Changes and Education Reforms: Asia and Pacific Responses”. More than 500 participants from 41 countries and regions gathered in this 3-day conference to share their insights and discuss the difficulties they experienced in education. For details, please visit the APERA-HKERA 2014 website:

APERA 2008 Conference

We warmly invite you to participate at the APERA 2008 conference hosted by Educational Research Association of Singapore (ERAS). The APERA 2008 conference will be held at the National Institute of Education, Singapore on 26-28 November 2008. The Conference Theme is: Educational Research for Innovation & Quality in Education: Policy & Pedagogical Engagements Across Contexts. For details, please visit the APERA 2008 Conference website :
APERA 2006 Conference

The APERA 2006 conference was hosted by Asia-Pacific Centre for Education Leadership and School Quality (APCELSQ) of The Hong Kong Institute of Education and Hong Kong Education Research Association on 28-30 November 2006. It was co-organised and sponsored by 20 other national and international organisations. It was organized for researchers, educators, and policy-makers in the Region and other parts of the world to share their innovative initiatives, frontier experiences, cutting-edge findings, and noble visions of education reforms. The theme of the Conference was: Educational Research, Policy, and Practice in an Era of Globalization: The Asia Pacific Perspectives. There were 613 participants from 31 countries participated at the 2006 Conference. Participants mainly comprised educators, researchers and policy makers from the Asia-Pacific Region. Over 600 parallel sessions (paper presentation, poster presentation, symposia and workshops) in about 14 sub-themes were presented at the conference.
Organizers:
Asia-Pacific Educational Research Association
Hong Kong Institute of Education-APCELSQ
Hong Kong Educational Research Association

Co-organizers:
The Hong Kong Baptist University (Department of Education Studies)
The Chinese University of Hong Kong (Faculty of Education)
City University of Hong Kong (Comparative Education Policy Research Unit)
The Hong Kong University (Faculty of Education)
The Open University of Hong Kong (School of Education and Languages)
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (Educational Development Centre)

Journal Sponsors:
International Journal of Educational Management
Asia-Pacific Educational Review (APER) in Korea
Educational Research for Policy and Practice (ERPP) in Australia

International Sponsors:
UNESCO-UNEVOC, International Centre for Technical and Vocational Education and Training
UNESCO-Asia-Pacific Programme of Educational Innovation for Development
UNESCO-Asia-Pacific Network for International Education and Values Education
The Australian Council for Educational Research
The British Council (Hong Kong)
The China National Institute for Educational Research
Education Research Association Singapore
Korean Educational Development Institute
National Institute for Educational Policy Research, Japan
National Institute for Education Strategy and Curriculum (NIESAC) of Viet Nam
The New Zealand Council for Educational Research
APERA-ERPP AWARD FOR YOUNG RESEARCHERS

We are pleased to share that the recipient of the APERA-ERPP Young Researcher Award for the year 2006 is Ms. Intan Azura Mokhtar. A Certificate and AUD $500 was presented to her at APERA 2006 Conference. Congratulations to Ms. Intan Azura Mokhtar.

The APERA-ERPP Award was established at the instigation of Professor Colin Power, for the best article submitted each year by a young researcher (that is, under 35 years) for publication in ERPP (Educational Research for Policy and Practice). The initiative is in line with APERA and ERPPˇ¦s vision in supporting young researchers from the Region in the dissemination of their research endeavour.

The Award comprises a certificate and $AUD 500 for researchers coming from a developing country in the Asia-Pacific region, and/or a certificate and $AUD 200 for researchers from a developed country. Submissions to ERPP will be judged by a panel from the APERA Executive and the ERPP Editorial Board in terms of the quality of the research and the level of potential impact on educational policy and practice. ERPP welcomes manuscripts on both quantitative and qualitative research studies, focussing either on system-wide reforms and policymaking, or on specific educational issues facing teachers and learners in the Asia-Pacific region.
The APERA journal of the Association, Educational Research for Policy and Practice

Educational Research for Policy and Practice (ERPP) is the official journal of the Asia-Pacific Educational Research Association. ERPP aims to improve education and educational research in Asia and the Pacific by promoting the dissemination of high quality research which addresses key issues in educational policy and practice. The journal is an international, professionally refereed journal targeted at education professionals with an interest in the ways in which educational research can inform, and be informed by, educational decision making and practice in the Asia-Pacific region.

We are pleased to announce that Professor Oon-Seng Tan, National Institute of Education, Singapore, is the new Editor-in-Chief of Educational Research for Policy and Practice as of January 1, 2008. He is assisted by Dr Pak-Tee Ng, National Institute of Education, Singapore, as Executive Editor.

APERA would like to express our sincere gratitude to Professor Colin Power, Editor-in-Chief for the journal since 2002. Professor Power is founder of the ERPP journal. APERA is profoundly grateful for the leadership of Professor Power.

APERA publications serve to disseminate major research efforts in key areas of education, and contribute to knowledge advancement and evidenced-based policymaking in the Region. Examples of publications are:

Educational Research for Policy and Practice
Educational Research for Policy and Practice (ERPP) is the official journal of the Asia-Pacific Educational Research Association. ERPP aims to improve education and educational research in Asia and the Pacific by promoting the dissemination of high quality research which addresses key issues in educational policy and practice. The journal is an international, professionally refereed journal targeted at education professionals with an interest in the ways in which educational research can inform, and be informed by, educational decision making and practice in the Asia-Pacific region.

We are pleased to announce that Professor Nock, National Institute of Education, Singapore, is the new Editor-in-Chief of Educational Research for Policy and Practice as of January 1, 2008. He is assisted by Dr Scott Williams, National Institute of Education, Singapore, as Executive Editor.

APERA would like to express our sincere gratitude to Professor Brad Astrotun, Editor-in-Chief for the journal since 2002. Professor Power is founder of the ERPP journal. APERA is profoundly grateful for the leadership of Professor Power.

Asia-Pacific Handbook on Educational Research
Members are invited to contribute to a new edition of the Asia-Pacific Handbook on Educational Research. The official publication of the Asia-Pacific Handbook on Educational Research is the most comprehensive source of education research information in the Region. The Handbook has 92 chapters and nearly 100 authors (Editors-in-Chief: Professor Kims Hover & Dr. Atam Morrison). Please visit the following site for further information:

The “Education in the Asia-Pacific Region: Issues, Concerns and Prospects” book series
Six books of this series have been published, covering key issues of education in the Region (Editors-in-Chief: Dr. Raylean Edwards & Dr. Juan Valdez). Please visit the following site for further information: