Take Care of Your Teeth While Wearing Braces

So, you just got your braces on, and you're wondering why you should continue visiting your general dentist since you’re seeing your orthodontist every other month. Patients always ask us if they should continue to see their dentist while in orthodontic treatment. In short, the answer is yes. While you are wearing braces, it is essential that you take care of your teeth and gums so it is crucial to keep up with your regular visits with your dentist in addition to going in for your regular orthodontic adjustments . 

One of the best reasons to visit your dentist while you undergo orthodontic treatment is to remove plaque and tartar. Having braces provides additional nooks and crannies in which food particles and bacteria can hide. Eventually, plaque and tartar can form around your brackets, bands or other appliances which can lead to cavities. Having your teeth professionally cleaned can help ensure most, if not all, plaque and tartar is removed. Even if you are undergoing clear aligner treatment, dental checkups and cleanings are equally as important.

The next reason to visit a dentist is to help protect your teeth from decalcification, or the loss of calcium in your teeth. A potentially serious condition in which white spots on your tooth surfaces, decalcification is irreversible and if left untreated, can lead to cavities. Decalcification is preventable; patients who cut down on sugary sweets and acidic foods, practice good oral hygiene, and visit their dentist regularly can help prevent decalcification.

The final reason we recommend visiting your dentist while you have braces is this: cavities can prolong your treatment. If you are interested in completing your orthodontic treatment on time and without any delays, visiting your dentist every six months or as recommended can go a long way toward making that a realistic goal. Your dentist can provide fluoride treatments or other treatments that strengthen your teeth and protect them from cavities. Making sure to visit your dentist will help ensure your teeth look their best once your braces come off.

DON'T BE CONFUSED ABOUT DENTAL CLEANINGS!

 

The different types of dental cleanings that we perform can be confusing and we are asked often about the differences in treatment and cost for getting teeth cleaned. Since it has become such a common question, I thought I would try to explain the differences here in not so abstract terms!

DENTAL CLEANINGS: According to the American Dental Association, this is the definition of an adult dental cleaning (technically a prophylaxis): "A dental prophylaxis performed on transitional or permanent dentition, which includes scaling and polishing procedures to remove coronal plaque, calculus, and stains. Some patients may require more than one appointment or one extended appointment to complete a prophylaxis.
MY Explanation: A lot of scary words in there, so let me break it down. A dental cleaning is done for people with healthy gums. It removes plaque and calculus (also known as tartar) from above the gum line. This is typically completed by a hygienist in one visit. The hygienist may use a scaler/curette (patients refer to them as metal picks) or an ultrasonic scaler (commonly referred to as the tool that "vibrates, buzzes and shoots water"). Lastly, the hygienist will polish your teeth with an air-driven slow-speed prophy cup filled with flavored pumice. The key: the patient has healthy gums (meaning no bone loss, no periodontal disease) and the teeth are simply cleaned in one visit.

ROOT PLANING: According to the American Dental Association, root planing (deep cleaning) is defined as follows: "This procedure involves instrumentation of the crown and root surfaces of the teeth to remove plaque and calculus from these surfaces. It is indicated for patients with periodontal disease and is therapeutic, not prophylactic, in nature. Root planing is the definitive procedure designed for the removal of cementum and dentin that is rough and/or permeated by calculus or contaminated with toxins or microorganisms. Some soft tissue removal occurs. This procedure may be used as a definitive treatment in some stages of periodontal disease and/or as a part of pre-surgical procedures in others."
MY  Explanation: This is not a cleaning. The patient getting root planing does not have healthy gums. It is therapy or treatment for diseased gums. Your teeth are probed/measured for the purpose of diagnosis. Patients with good oral hygiene can manage pocket depths at 3-4mm. Probing depths 5mm and above with evidence of plaque, calculus, inflammation or infection require treatment of the tooth and root surfaces. This is done typically one corner of the mouth at a time with dental anesthetic. It is always followed up with a reevaluation, to make sure the treatment was successful. The key: the patient has been diagnosed with periodontal disease (bone loss has occured and acute or chronic gingival inflammation is present). This treatment is completed 1/4 of the mouth at a time with dental anesthetic. The patient may leave with an antibiotic or an antimicrobial rinse.  

PERIDONTAL MAINTENANCE: This is the most confusing part of periodontal therapy. Periodontal Maintenance is defined by the ADA as follows: "This procedure is for patients who have previously been treated for periodontal disease. Typically, maintenance starts after completion of active (surgical or nonsurgical) periodontal therapy and continues at varying intervals, determined by the clinical diagnosis of the dentist, for the life of the dentition. It includes removal of supra and subgingival microbial flora and calculus, site specific scaling and root planing where indicated, and/or polishing teeth. When new or recurring periodontal disease appears, additional diagnostic and treatment procedures must be considered."
MY Explanation: This seems like a cleaning, except it's for patients who have previously had gum surgery or root planing...aka they do not have a healthy mouth. The hygienist will go after troubled spots, numb if necessary, and constantly evaluate the "state of disease." The name explains a lot: Periodontal Maintenance, in other words the dentist/staff are maintaining the current conditions and trying to prevent them from getting worse. They may be more frequent than dental cleanings too. The key: Not a cleaning, but it sure feels like one, because the whole mouth is treated in one visit. It is more active, more thorough and more involved.

The Best New Year’s Resolution You Can Make For 2013

 

A lot of New Year’s resolutions will be health related this year – we want to lose weight, quit smoking, etc. The sad reality of these good intentions is that once February rolls around, most of us will be done; we’ll get caught up in our busy lives and go back to our old routines. The reason why we don’t keep these well intentioned resolutions is this: We want to be thin before we’re fit, meaning, we want all the superficial benefits of good health without wanting good health itself. We’ll pay big bucks for a quick teeth whitening before our Vegas trip or wedding to look good, but we neglect to spend just minutes each day taking care of our bodies.

This year, why not make a New Year’s resolution that will actually change your life and give you back tenfold in health and happiness what you put into it. THAT’S a resolution you’ll have no problem keeping well into February and beyond, for your whole life! 

Do you value your smile? The more you smile, the longer you live – this has been proven by a UC Berkeley study that found that the width of a smile in a yearbook photo accurately predicted a person’s happiness and well-being 30 years later. Smiling wider has been proven over and over to improve happiness, salary, marriage, self-confidence, and longevity. The best way to smile more? Take basic preventative measures to take care of your teeth. It might sound like the least sexy, most boring New Year’s resolution you could make, but consider the following:

• Smiling is contagious. If you smile, others smile, even if they don’t want to, as we’ve found from many studies. Think of how this might affect you at work, or in that big interview, or in your marriage or dating life.
• Smiling immediately improves your mood. Imagine how resilient this will make you as you work towards your other New Year’s resolutions this coming year.
• Smiling causes production of endorphins, which are the same chemical produced by exercise. Endorphins boost your immune system, relieve stress, and lower your blood pressure, just like exercise does.
• Smiling causes the release of serotonin, which will allow your brain to work at optimum levels.
• Here’s the best part: Smiling makes you look more attractive and confident. Attractive and confident people have higher salaries, better marriages and friendships, and ultimately longer and more fulfilling lives, which leads to – more smiling!

So if any one of your New Year’s resolutions includes looking and feeling better, getting healthier, making more money, improving relationships, or becoming happier and more fulfilled – consider that little tube of toothpaste or that forgotten container of floss in the back of your bathroom cabinet. You can reap all of the benefits above by flossing daily, brushing after each meal, making sure to brush properly so you aren’t damaging tooth enamel, and making an appointment to see your dentist in the new year. These basic prevention methods are some of the simplest and most impactful things you can do for your health and happiness all year.

Teeth-Saving Thanksgiving Tips!

Thanksgiving is almost here, and that means holiday food. While traditional Thanksgiving foods will leave your stomach satisfied, they can leave a bitter aftertaste of dental woes – stained teeth and cavities. You don’t have to give up your favorite foods; just alter your recipes. Try these tasty variations on holiday staples that will keep your teeth, and the rest of your body, healthy.

Sweet Potatoes: These tasty tubers get their bright orange color from beta carotene, a powerful antioxidant. Look for varieties with darker orange flesh, as they’ve got more beta carotene. Traditional Thanksgiving sweet potato dishes often add marshmallows, sugar, and lots of butter. Cut the sugar and try making mashed sweet potatoes with a little butter, brown sugar, and a hint of rosemary. If your family is willing, try making oven-baked spicy sweet potato fries.
Cranberries: Like sweet potatoes, these berries get their bright color from antioxidants. Cranberries are bursting with Vitamin C, and also feature a hefty dose of Vitamins A and K, which prevent cavity-forming bacteria from sticking to your teeth. If you make cranberry sauce from scratch, use less sugar – most people don’t taste the difference. Add orange juice or zest to complement the tart and tangy tastes. Add a little apple or grape juice to unsweetened cranberry juice.
Berry Pies: Blueberries, cherries, blackberries, and black raspberries have many of the same health benefits of cranberries. Their deep colors indicate the presence of Vitamins A and K, manganese (an essential mineral), and compounds that may help lower cholesterol. Unfortunately, these bright colors can also stain your teeth, and most pie recipes call for quite a lot of sugar. Try reducing the sugar in your recipes, substituting some honey for sugar, or mixing some apples in with the berries. Rinse well with water after eating berries or drinking their juice.

Swish with water after having tea, coffee, or wine (red or white) to help prevent stains. Wait about an hour after you’re done eating to brush your teeth. Acid from food or drinks temporarily softens enamel; waiting gives it time to re-harden.

From Silver to White



Have you recently visited with a friend or coworker and had a flash of silver catch your eye? We’ve all seen them, and some of us may still have them. So what exactly are we referring to? Those unsightly silver amalgam fillings that used to be the standard way of filling all cavities.

Fortunately, today’s advances in dentistry and oral health awareness are causing these silver alloy fillings to gradually become a thing of the past. At our office, we now offer you, our valued patients, beautiful white composite fillings that match your teeth. When you open wide and visit with people, your fillings will no longer draw unwanted attention. In fact, it’s practically impossible to even tell the fillings are there!

If you still have silver amalgam fillings from your past, we may recommend that you consider having them replaced—and not just because of their less aesthetically-pleasing appearance. Silver amalgam fillings don’t bond as well to teeth—in order to make sure the filling is held in place, it has to be prepared with “undercuts” that can weaken the tooth structure and result in fractures. Amalgam fillings can also corrode over time as they swell and expand, putting you at risk for cracks. Additional problems can also occur as moisture and bacteria leak through microscopic spaces that develop between the tooth and the filling over time. Often, if not given immediate attention, this can cause a tooth to decay completely and/or break.

White composite fillings don’t require undercuts in your teeth, making them much more proficient in bonding, and definitely superior. In fact, such fillings can actually help strengthen teeth. And of course they’re much more aesthetically pleasing. Still have questions about silver amalgam fillings and what to do about them? Set up an appointment with us! We’d love to go over all the options with you.

Don't Stress About Halloween Candy

 

It's almost Halloween! Costume stores are springing up, yards are decorated with ghoulish décor, and our day of sweet indulgence without guilt is almost here. Everywhere you look, there's your favorite candy or chocolate wrapped in scary yet appealing packaging. Well, to all the sweet tooth Halloween lovers -both adults and kids- here are some practical tips from a Dentist who shares your love for most things sweet.

Sort the candy. When you are raiding your five-year-old's candy bag at 2 in the morning, separate the stack into two parts. Place the taffy, the caramels, the gummy bears, anything that is sticky, chewy or sour into the first pile. All of the other candy goes into the second pile.

Avoid the first pile. Dental cavities have a proven cause-and-effect relationship with extended exposure to sugary or sour substances. Oral bacteria thrives in this environment and converts these substances to acid that can, in turn, lead to cavities.

Watch your family’s consumption of these sweet treats during this season. A great tip is to leave the candy wrappers in a visible area so that you remember how many of these ghoulish confections you’ve eaten. The greatest danger candy poses for teeth is when patients "graze" on it all day.

Chew sugar-free gum to help you ration your sweet intake. Ingredients like Xylitol and Sorbitol, low calorie sweeteners found in some gum, can actually be beneficial to your oral health. Research has shown that these sweeteners starve destructive bacteria, allowing your mouth to replenish minerals to your teeth. Get advice from your Dentist on the frequency and amount recommended.

Talk to your kids about oral health. This is a great time to reinforce the twice-a-day brushing routine and the daily 'oh-so-dreaded flossing regime. Always remember, children will mostly do as they see. The most ideal scenario would be to brush after the consumption of candy. If that’s not possible, then encourage your child to eat the candy within a few minutes instead of snacking throughout the day, and then wash away some of the sugar by drinking a glass of water. And remember, Halloween is a great time to call your dentist and get the family scheduled for a check-up!

In the words of Robert Louis Stevenson, "There is only one difference between a long life and a good dinner; that in the dinner, the sweets come last." Enjoy the sweets in moderation and have fun this Halloween!

The Miracle Smoothie for Recovering from Wisdom Teeth Surgery

 

 

 

Recovering from wisdom teeth surgery makes it hard to eat, but this is the when your body needs nutritious food the most so it can heal itself and build back immunity. A great and easy-to-make drink when you’re recovering from wisdom teeth surgery is a wheat grass smoothie. Wheatgrass is a superfood that will help you recover faster, provide instant relief, and give your body the nutrients it needs to repair itself. Preparation is easy. Just blend the ingredients below until smooth.

Ingredients

One orange, peeled
Splash of coconut water
One handful of wheatgrass
1/2 cup of ice
A few scoops of protein powder (optional)

Instructions

Throw the ingredients in a blender on the highest (or liquify) setting, until smooth. Make sure the ice is fully blended – you do not want any hard bits in your smoothie because you must avoid anything crunchy while recovering from wisdom teeth extraction. Do not use a straw to drink your smoothie – use a spoon instead! Using a straw can cause a dry socket.

Benefits of Wheatgrass for Healing

Chemicals in wheatgrass are said to increase the production of hemoglobin, which is the chemical in red blood cells that carry oxygen, thereby preventing tooth decay, improving wound healing, and preventing bacterial infections. Some studies have shown that wheatgrass helps with anemia and wound healing, but so far there isn’t enough scientific evidence to support this.
Wheatgrass is a nutrient dense food that is likely to make you feel better as you recover than eating a diet of strictly apple sauce and ice cream, as is the typical diet of people recovering from wisdom teeth extraction. Wheatgrass is dense in Vitamins A and C, which are scientifically proven to make your recovery from wisdom teeth extraction faster and smoother. Other vitamins in wheatgrass include Vitamins E, B12, K, Magnesium, Calcium, Iron, and Potassium.

After having wisdom teeth surgery, you must stick to a liquid or soft food diet for several days. Vitamin C aids in the maintenance and repair of gum and mouth tissues and getting plenty of Vitamin C is critical to having a shorter and smooth recovery.

Feeling puffy? Wheatgrass has anti-inflammatory chemicals that will soothe your inflamed, irritated gums from the wisdom teeth extraction. The ice in the smoothie will also provide instant relief for puffy, sore gums.

Benefits of Protein Powder

Throwing in a scoop or two of protein powder is a great way to feel full and get some protein while you’re stuck with an all liquid diet.

 

The High Price of Avoiding the Dentist

 

Many people cite cost as one of the main obstacles in their quest for dental care. However, skipping regular check-ups to save a few dollars can prove to be an expensive decision in the long run. An attempt to save money by limiting dental care to just brushing a few times a day, flossing, and restricting sugary foods may seem like a good idea at first. This is a mistake nobody should make though. One of the principal reasons for visiting a dentist is to prevent problems or stop existing dental issues from worsening. The long term expense and pain associated with avoiding regular dental visits far outweigh any costs associated with preventative care.

For example, if a cavity is not stopped early on, the tooth may become severely decayed resulting in pain and either the need for a crown or entire tooth extraction.

A crown is a tooth-shaped cover fashioned in a laboratory and fitted onto the damaged tooth which is shaped so the crown can securely be affixed to it. A crown will be at least $500 and easily up to $1000 or more depending on the necessary procedures and materials used.

When a tooth extraction is necessary, the cost of the actual extraction is tiny compared with the next step: Either an implant or a bridge to replace the missing tooth.

A bridge consists of the actual artificial tooth bridging the missing-tooth gap, as well as crowns (in most cases) on the adjoining teeth to add support. Bridges can cost as much as $1000 or more.
A dental implant, which often requires the expertise of an oral surgeon, consists of a metal post affixed to the bone which then can be fitted with an artificial tooth and can cost in excess of $2000.

More serious problems can develop as well, such as severe gum disease leading to breakdown of bone and support tissues, eventually culminating in tooth loss and the need for at least partial dentures or multiple implants, both running in the many thousands of dollars.

Crowns, implants, bridges, and dentures are not just financial burdens for people without dental insurance. Of course coverage varies from plan to plan, but those with dental insurance are generally not covered fully or even very much on these types of procedures and so must personally bear much of the cost.

Conversely, a check-up typically runs somewhere between $50 and $100. The cost of the restorative procedures outlined above clarifies the true dental bargain that a regular check-up represents.

Want Healthy Knees? Focus On Your Gums

Want healthy knees? Then you better floss your teeth. Yes, you read that right. Scientists have found traces of gum bacteria in the knees of people with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology, adds more evidence of the link between poor oral health and poor health in general.

Researchers from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland essentially traced the passage of bacteria in the mouth to the fluid surrounded the kneecap, called synovial fluid. By analyzing the DNA of the bacteria, the researchers could determine that gum bacteria entered into the bloodstream and settled in the synovial fluid, which was in a weakened state because of arthritis.  In healthy people, the synovial fluid is essentially sterile. Bacteria can make the diseased area much, much worse.

Although it is not conclusive that the gum bacteria caused or worsened the arthritis in the patients it studied, the finding provides a new wrinkle in the still controversial theory of gum disease's role in a host of ailments.

 

Knee and mouth disease?

Advanced gum disease, or periodontitis, has long been associated with heart disease. One example of this link is the accumulation of plaque in the arteries, called atherosclerosis, which may be exacerbated by the same bacteria causing plaque on the teeth. Another example is an inflamed heart valve, irritated by gum bacteria. That's the theory, anyway.

  

People with periodontitis are twice as likely to have cardiovascular disease. Researchers in this study have also said his group has unpublished data showing how periodontitis is more of a risk factor for heart attacks than LDL "bad" cholesterol levels or C-reactive protein levels, a measure of inflammation.

And now his group has data tying gum disease to arthritis. The bacteria found in the mouth and in the synovial fluid were genetically nearly identical, providing smoking-gun evidence of bacteria relocating. It is well known that advanced periodontitis can lead to harmful bacteria entering the bloodstream. Once it gets in, it can go anywhere.  The target is often a site of existing inflammation, such as the arteries or, in this case, the knee.

It wouldn't be such a bad idea to start brushing and flossing!

 

 

Stress Can Effect Your Smile



You've probably never thought about it, but did you know that when you’re stressed out, our team might be able to tell by the signs in your mouth? Stress can have a huge effect on your oral health.

1. Your Mouth Can Reflect How You Feel: Stress can manifest itself in physical irritations that include canker sores, dry mouth, or burning mouth.
2. When Stressed, Your Defenses Are Down: Stress can compromise your immune system, which could make it easier for decay-causing bacteria in your mouth to wreak havoc.
3. Stress Contributes To Teeth Grinding: Many people grind their teeth and don’t even realize it. The tension you feel during the day can manifest itself through grinding at night—severely damaging your teeth.
4. Your Sound Oral Health Routines May Slip: While people’s minds are consumed with all their other important “stuff”, some put their oral health on the back burner. That could end up becoming a double whammy when compromised oral health creates even more stress in their lives.

A Remedy That Can Help
Here’s the irony—stress makes you less apt to smile, when in fact smiling can actually help you diminish stress! A study by psychologists at the University of Kansas showed that even a forced smile in stressful situations can lower heart rates. And a genuine smile? Even more powerful. Smiles also release serotonin and endorphins, which are mood-boosters and stress-busters.

Don’t Let Oral Health Problems Add To Your Stress
Here at our practice, we try to help minimize your stress. If you experience anxiety over regular dental visits, a postponed treatment, or perhaps a toothache that you’re worried about having us look at, ask us about ways we can help you. We’re here to help keep the power of your smile in full force! Remember that a clean, healthy mouth can contribute to your total body health. And a healthy body helps you deal with the trials that life throws at each of us.

Dental Habits to Avoid For the Sake of your Chompers!

 

 

You know the routine: brush your teeth daily, floss regularly, and have your regular checkups with Dr. Goodin twice a year. For the most part, getting in the habit of completing these simple tasks will keep your teeth healthy and strong. However, there are a few less-than-desirable oral habits that can override your good habits and compromise your dental health! Here are some tips that can help you avoid those dental habits that can damage your teeth!

1. Crunching, Sucking, and Sipping:
After slurping down that ice cold and refreshing beverage, try not to crunch the leftover ice between your teeth. The cold temperature of the ice cubes can cause your teeth to fracture. Be careful when eating popcorn too! Sipping sugary soda is also bad for your teeth. The constant exposure to the acids and sugar can lead to tooth decay.
Solution: Switch to crushed ice & drink your soda through a straw!!

2. Using Your Teeth As “Tools”:
Some people rely on their teeth for odd jobs like opening a tightly screwed bottle of nail polish, tearing open a bag of chips, straightening a bent fork, or ripping a price tag off a new article of clothing. These actions are actually quite hard on your teeth and can even cause a weakened tooth to fracture or chip.
Solution: Keep some simple tools like scissors and pliers handy and leave the dirty work to them!

3. Grinding Your Teeth:
Grinding your teeth wears them down and weakens them.
Solution: During the day, be more aware of what you’re doing with your teeth when you feel stressed or anxious. Notice if your jaw muscles are often sore. For those of you who grind at night, ask your dentist about custom mouth guards

4. Using A Hard-Bristled Toothbrush:
It may be surprising, but a firm toothbrush is actually worse for your teeth than a soft-bristled one. A brush with bristles that are too firm can wear down tooth enamel more quickly and may irritate your gums and make your teeth sensitive.
Solution: Stick with soft-bristles and ask one of our team members about the best type of toothbrush for your particular mouth.

5. Not Brushing Or Flossing Properly:
Though you may brush and floss everyday, if you aren’t doing it correctly it could cause harm as well as good.
Solution: Make sure that you brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes TWICE a day. Be gentle. Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months, and consider purchasing an electric one. Ask one of our team members the most effective way to floss. Use an antibacterial mouthwash.

6.  Not seeing the dentist regularly: OK, so going to the dentist isn't as fun as going out for ice cream, but if you don't get your teeth cleaned and checked professionally twice a year, you're bound to end up with some serious and painful dental problems.
Solution: Schedule dental appointments in advance or have your dental office put you on a 6-month recall to set up an appointment!

If any of these bad habits apply to you, overcome them and develop a healthier oral routine! We promise you’ll see results and have more reasons to smile!

 

Is A "Dental Visit" On Your Kid's Back-To-School Checklist?

You've tucked away your kids' bathing suits and bought new backpacks. You've sharpened their pencils and visited their doctor. But have they seen their dentist yet? A dental exam should be part of the back-to-school checklist.

Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease in U.S. children, says the American Academy of Pediatrics. By the time they start kindergarten, more than 40 percent of kids have some tooth decay. Kids with toothaches have trouble focusing. They may also not want to join in class discussions. Just because your child's teeth look OK doesn't mean that they are OK. Your kids should have checkups even when they don't have symptoms. This can prevent certain problems. It can catch other problems when they're easy to treat. During a routine exam, the dentist will:

                                             *Review your child's dental and medical history

                                             *Examine your kid's teeth, jaws, and oral tissue

                                             *Clean and polish your child's teeth

                                             *Apply a fluoride solution.

A big part of the dentist's role is to monitor children as they grow. They see where things need to improve and can give you the tools to maintain and improve your child's oral health. Seeing the dentist isn't the only step to keeping your children's teeth healthy. These tips can help them steer clear of cavities:

                                            *Have kids brush their teeth at least twice a day with a pea-sized amount 

                                              of fluoride toothpaste. They should brush gently and pay special

                                              attention to the gum line.

                                            *Kids should floss at least once a day.

                                            *Give your kids healthy snack foods such as fresh fruit, veggies, and

                                              cheeses.

                                            *Limit sugary snacks and high-carbohydrate foods. The bacteria that

                                              cause tooth decay thrive on simple sugars, especially those in sticky

                                              foods and treats.

                                            *Don't let them snack too often.

                                            *If you kids like to chew gum, offer a sugar-free option.

                                            *Talk with your child's dentist about whether your child should have 

                                              dental sealants.

One of the main reasons for kids missing school is a sore tooth or tooth ache. I cannot stress enough the importance of parents scheduling their child's dental appointment before the start of school . This will not only keep your  kids from missing school but will avoid the stress of trying to get a dental appointment at the last minute.

Fascinating Facts About Saliva!



For most people the term “dentistry” brings to mind the mouth, teeth and gums. The term “saliva” or “spit” is not typically our first thought. I suppose the general population is kind of squeamish about that sort of thing, but as a family dentist, I had to get over that reaction long ago!

The salivary system is actually a complex environment and crucial to our oral and digestive health. It maintains the health of the soft and hard tissues in our mouths and assists our speech. It contains antioxidants and many disease fighting substances that repair cell damage, control microbe levels, and help inhibit the development of dental cavities. It’s an integral part of our digestive system, lubricating the mouth and throat so we can chew and swallow foods.

Most people probably think of saliva as the spit-like substance in the mouth that helps them to break down foods and maintain their mouths moisture levels. While these are certainly true and interesting aspects of the fluid there is more to saliva including important dental aspects as well as research that is using saliva to detect diseases in a more timely, efficient and safer manner. In fact, saliva may one day replace blood samples which is big news for scientists and doctors who see the potential of saliva screenings to save lives.

Saliva is secreted into the mouth by three major glands that are near the jaws and inside the lips, cheeks, mouth and throat. The saliva glands secrete a watery fluid that contains proteins, enzymes, minerals, and antibodies that help to perform some very helpful functions within our mouths:

Cleansing: Saliva helps to wash food particles from the mouth and helps to reduce the amount of sugars that cause cavities.

Protecting & Disinfecting: Saliva protects the mouth by fighting bacteria and other germ-causing organisms in the mouth.

Maintenance: Saliva helps to keep the balance in the mouth between acidity and alkalinity that can cause decay.

Re-mineralization: Saliva contain calcium and phosphate minerals which aid in the enamel building process.

Digesting: Saliva makes food easier to chew and breaks down starches.

Most recently saliva has been researched and tested to diagnose disease. It can be evaluated by health professionals and scientists for molecules that are indicators for disease. By looking into the composition of the fluid scientists are able to see if the molecules contained have indicators of harmful health conditions. The benefit of saliva is that it is easier and cheaper to collect, is easier to handle, and doesn’t expose healthcare workers to blood-borne diseases.

Root Canal Myths

Root canal therapy is considered to be the most feared dental procedure. Does that surprise you? A survey conducted by the American Association of Endodontists reveals that most people with a fear of the dentist base their fear on someone else's experiences, not their own.

The inaccurate information about root canal therapy prevents patients from making an informed decision regarding their teeth. There are many patients that go as far as requesting that a tooth is extracted, rather than save it with a root canal. Before you believe the hype, take a look at the top root canal myths, and learn the truth for yourself.

Myth #1: Root Canal Therapy Is Painful
Root canal therapy is almost always preformed because a tooth is causing pain from an irreversible condition. Pulpitis, an infected pulp, broken teeth, or a slowly dying nerve are all common reasons for root canal therapy. Root canal therapy is used to alleviate pain. Most people who have root canal therapy admit they did not experience any pain during the appointment and felt better afterward. If you are suffering from pain on the day of your appointment, your apprehension and fear may heighten the sensations you feel during the procedure.

Myth #2: Completing a Root Canal Requires Several Appointments
Root canal therapy may be completed in one to two appointments. Factors that determine the number of appointments necessary to complete a root canal include:

• The extent of the infection
• The difficulty of the root canal
• Whether a referral to a root canal specialist, known as an endodontist, becomes necessary

Restoring the tooth after root canal therapy is necessary in order to ensure the tooth functions properly. The appointments necessary to completely restore the tooth, in essence, should not be considered part of the root canal process.

Myth #3: Root Canal Therapy Causes Illness
The idea that bacteria trapped inside an endodontically-treated tooth will cause illness, such as heart disease, kidney disease, or arthritis, stems from research conducted by Dr. Weston Price from 1910 to 1930 -- almost 100 years ago. Recent attempts to confirm Dr. Price's research has been unsuccessful in proving that root canal treatment causes illness. Bacteria can be found in the mouth at anytime. Even teeth free from decay and gum disease have tested positive for bacteria.

Myth #4: Teeth Need to Hurt Before Root Canal Therapy Becomes Necessary
Teeth that require root canal therapy are not always painful. In fact, teeth that are already dead may require root canal therapy to prevent the tooth from becoming infected. Your dentist will examine your teeth thoroughly during your regular check-up. It is usually during this routine appointment where your dentist will discover a tooth that has died or is on its way. Tests used to confirm a dead tooth include:

• Temperature testing
• Percussion testing
• Using a pulp vitality machine

Myth #5: The Benefits of Root Canal Therapy Don't Last Very Long
A common misconception is that the benefits of root canal therapy don't last very long after the procedure has been completed. This myth originated after patients experienced their tooth breaking months after a root canal was performed on their tooth. When the nerve is removed from the inside of the tooth, the blood supply is eliminated from inside the tooth. The tooth eventually becomes brittle, and depending on the size of the filling used to close the tooth after the root canal, the forces from grinding, eating, and even talking may cause the tooth to break. Failing to have a crown placed on the tooth may cause this to happen. Technically, it is not the root canal that has failed; it is the restoration on the tooth that has failed.

As part of my team,  I have the pleasure of working with Dr. Kevin Gremillion, a dentist whose practice is restricted to endodontics, performing root canals in my office.  Having Dr. Gremillion on site eliminates the inconvienience of having to go elsewhere if a root canal is required during a visit.

What Are My Options For Missing Teeth?

Missing teeth can lead to multiple dental health issues from malocclusion (poor bite), to alveolar atrophy (jawbone shrinkage), on top of difficulty with speaking and eating. When it comes to tooth loss, the consequences can be overwhelming. That’s why my office offers relief with Dental Implants.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is much like other dental restorations in that the crown is shaped and colored to look like a natural tooth. However, what sets dental implants apart from other dental restorations like dental bridges, dentures, and partials, is the titanium rod. This tiny biocompatible piece of the dental implant bonds to the jawbone. The rod allows a dental implant to not only look like a natural tooth, but also feel like a natural tooth. By mimicking a tooth root, the dental implant rod holds the crown in place, giving it strength and stability.

What are the benefits of a dental implant?

This tooth replacement will allow you to enjoy your favorite foods without worrying if your restoration will slip out of place or feel awkward. Dental implants also give you the freedom of a normal oral hygiene routine. You can clean and maintain your dental implant like you would your natural teeth, instead of removing them to soak in cleaner at night, or using special interdental brushing methods, as with dentures and dental bridges. In fact, with proper oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings, you can expect your dental restoration to last for your lifetime. One hidden benefit of dental implants is their ability to replace the chewing stimulation to your jawbone, once provided by your missing tooth. This keeps your jaw healthy and prevents alveolar atrophy as well as holds your surrounding teeth in relative position, avoiding malocclusion.

Stop suffering from the effects of tooth loss by making an appointment with my office about your dental restoration options and to see if dental implants are right for you.

Is It Possible To Brush Too Much?

Toothbrush bristles underneath the microscope - notice their soft, rounded edges that make them less abrasive

Yes...it is possible to over brush. I would estimate many of us in this country are overbrushing. We’re obsessed, but we’re brushing incorrectly and we’re brushing with the wrong toothbrush. Everyday I see people in my practice that have brushed away tooth structure and worn their teeth away using a toothbrush. There is absolutely such a thing as too much of a good thing when it comes to brushing your teeth. Think about, for a moment, what a toothbrush is and how it is made. A toothbrush is manufactured by taking a grouping of nylon bristles and inserting them into a molten nylon handle. A machine cuts these bristles to make them all the same height. At this point in the manufacturing process, if you were to look under a microscope with extreme magnification, you would see thousands of little cylindrical nylon tubes with sharp and serrated edges, waiting to scrape away precious dentin and enamel.

Fortunately, there’s another step in this manufacturing process that most (not all) quality toothbrushes undergo. After the bristles are cut to be the same height, they are treated in such a way that the sharp edges of the nylon bristles are rounded into hemispherical, soft domes – this, too, is visible underneath the microscope. This process makes the toothbrush bristles safe to use. After being rounded, they are far less abrasive than when they are freshly cut and safe to use because they don’t scrape away tooth structure. Certain toothbrush manufacturers do a better job of this than others. The toothbrushes made by manufacturers that don’t do a great job rounding the bristles are not safe to use out of the box. This cannot be seen with the naked eye.

The smoothness of your bristles also gets worn away back to its original jaggedness via brushing, which is why you may have heard that dentists recommend you replace your toothbrush often. The key is to throw away your toothbrush before the bristles splay, because by that point, it’s too late. Splayed bristles mean you’ve been using a worn toothbrush that is too abrasive and has been wearing away your tooth structure. I recommend replacing your toothbrush every four weeks for people who brush twice a day. The analogy I like to use is this one: would you wax your car with an old rag with dirt on it? Never, because that would scratch the finish.

The same goes for your teeth. If you use proper techniques in brushing, use a high quality toothbrush, and you throw it away before it becomes this dangerous, abrasive device I’ve described, you should be able to eat frequently and brush frequently without guilt. And remember...you can never floss too much – you can only floss too little!

Safeguard Your Child With Toothprints

One of the greatest fears of being a parent today is either a child getting lost or, worse yet, abducted. Although all states have implemented the AMBER Alert system issuing statewide public alerts about missing children, more on an individual level can be done. As a parent, you play a pivotal role in providing a proven means of identifying your child or, better yet, DNA and saliva samples for tracking them. Each person's set of teeth is unique...even in identical twins.

Toothprints is a simple, cost-effective way of documenting your young child's unique tooth characteristics. Toothprints is an arch-shaped thermoplastic wafer you soften in hot water, and place on the child's lower arch. The child bites into the wafer for 20 seconds. After allowing a 2-3 minute cool-down period in the plastic bag provided. Making a Toothprints bite impression takes only a few minutes. It’s comfortable for young children and will give you, their parent, peace of mind.

Recommended Toothprints Schedule:
 Initial impression: Age 3 (or after all primary teeth have erupted)
Update: Age 7 or 8 (or after the upper and lower incisors and the first permanent molars have erupted)
Update: Age 12 or 13 (or after all permanent teeth, excluding 3rd molars, have erupted).
The following website provides more info:
http://yoursafechild.com/parents-toothprintsr.html

Vitamins and Minerals For Oral Health

For years, we’ve been told how vitamins and minerals have a beneficial effect on our bodies. For example, how vitamins B1, B2 and B3 supports energy metabolism, the health of your skin, normal vision and aids your digestive system…and how minerals like Iron carry oxygen throughout the cells of the body. But little mention had been given to the fact that both vitamins and minerals can have such an advantageous effect on oral health.

Now, before you run out to your local drug store, vitamins and minerals that promote oral health are widely available in what we eat, so try getting them from natural foods. I have included a chart  which you may find helpful. If you are currently incorporating these foods into your meals…great! If not, it will take very little effort to do so. Not only will your mouth thank you, but it may mean fewer visits to the dentist…and wouldn’t you all love that!

Mom sure knew what she was talking about when she forced you to eat your meals, especially your vegetables, when you were a kid!

Vitamin	How it affects your mouth	Found in these foods
Vitamin A (carotene)	Prevents dry mouth and oral cancer	Broccoli, brussell sprouts, green leafy vegetables (spinach, collard greens, kale, etc.)
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)	Prevents soft, bleeding gums, and loose teeth Prevents oral cancer	Citrus fruits, cantaloupe, strawberries, green leafy vegetables, bell peppers
Vitamin D	Promotes strong teeth and jaw bones	Oily fish, milk, eggs, cereals, sunshine
Vitamin E	Prevents growth of thick white patches in the mouth (leukoplakia). Prevents oral cancer	Vegetable oil, nuts, peanut butter, wheat germ
B2, Niacin, B6, B12 Folic Acid	Prevents soreness, redness and bleeding of the gums, cracking and sores in the corners of the mouth and on the tongue	Salmon, beef, liver, chicken, fish, yogurt, nuts and beans. Breakfast cereals, spinach, navy beans, orange juice, pasta, rice.
Calcium Phosphorous Magnesium	Needed for tooth development, prevents loss of jaw bone and teeth, rebuilds hard surface of the teeth (enamel)	Milk, cheese, yogurt, seafood, dark green leafy vegetables
Fluoride	Prevents tooth decay, helps repair enamel	Fluoridated water, black tea, sardines
Zinc	Needed for digestion, healing cold and canker sores	Liver, various meats, eggs, seafood, whole-grain cereals
Iodine	Needed for tooth development	Iodized salt, seafood, kelp, saltwater fish
Copper	Absorbs iron. Helps produce blood and nerve fibers	Liver, kidney, seafood, nuts, seeds, tap water
Iron	Protects against oral cancer and helps the immune system	Liver, eggs, fish, seafood, various other meats, enriched breads & cereals, green leafy vegetables
Potassium	Needed for nerve function and muscle contractions	Vegetables, legumes, fruits, milk, cheese, various meats, whole grains

Setting the Record Straight on Dental X-Rays

The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) is taking issue with the findings of a study published this week in the journal "Cancer" that suggests a link between frequent dental x-rays and the risk of developing meningioma, a largely benign brain tumor.

According to the AGD, the study's findings do not apply to modern dentistry, because the study was based upon an examination of outdated radiographic techniques, which produced considerably more radiation than patients would be exposed to today.

"Modern radiographic techniques and equipment provide the narrowest beam and shortest exposure, thereby limiting the area and time of exposure and reducing any possible risks while providing the highest level of diagnostic benefits," said AGD President Howard Gamble, DMD, in a press release. "Today, patient safety is always maintained with the recommended use of thyroid collars and aprons."

The article, which received attention from many reputable news outlets, could cause the public to decide to limit or even refuse x-rays in an effort to keep their families safe, the AGD noted.

"It is regrettable to think that an article based on outdated technology could scare the public and cause them to avoid needed treatment," said Dr. Gamble. "With the radiography techniques in use today, the amount of radiation exposure is reduced and more controlled than it was in years past."

The Cancer study also contained many inconsistencies and possibilities for error, including the fact that its findings were based upon a population-based case-control study, according to the AGD. This means that it relied upon the patients themselves to recall and self-report past events, many of which were from decades earlier. I don't know about anyone else...but I have a difficult time remembering what I did last week, let alone 10 years ago!

The AGD supports radiographic guidelines provided by the ADA and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and agreess with the ADA that dentists should order dental radiographs for patients only when necessary for diagnosis and treatment.

Dental radiographs, or X-rays, are an important part of a thorough dental examination. They can expose hidden tooth decay; reveal a tooth abcess, cyst or tumor; show impacted or extra teeth; and also help determine the condition of dental fillings, tooth crowns and dental bridges and root canals. Dental X-rays can also reveal bone loss from peridontal gum disease, locate tarter buildup, find foreign bodies within the gum or bone, and see if there is enough bone for the placement of dental implants.  These are just some of the many reasons why dentists rely on dental X-rays.

I utilize Digital Imaging Technology in my office which offers the following benefits: It's faster, images can be viewed instantly on a computer monitor, up to 90% less radiation and we avoid the chemicals used in the traditional developing process.  But what our patients love about the digital system is that Digital x-rays don’t require film. Instead, we capture the images via a small sensor placed directly in your mouth. Most people find this technique more comfortable, even when we must take the images at difficult angles.

In addition, the AGD encourages dentists to communicate with their patients and address any unexpressed concerns of radiographic risks in order to reduce fear and promote a better understanding of the benefits and the risks associated with the specific needs of each patient.

Your Dentist is the First Line of Defense In Oral Cancer Detection

The dental community is the first line of defense in early detection of Oral Cancer. According to The Oral Cancer Foundation, someone dies from oral cancer every hour of every day in the United States alone. This cancer, found in the mouth, lips or throat, is often highly curable if diagnosed and treated early. Unfortunately, in its early stages, oral cancer can go unnoticed.

Those at high risk for oral cancer include tobacco users, African-American men and heavy drinkers, but anyone can develop oral cancer. According to the Oral Cancer Consortium, 25 percent of people diagnosed with oral cancer have no risk factors. Studies have also determined there may be a link between HPV (human papilloma virus) and oral cancer.

Your dentist and hygienist usually screen you for any signs of oral cancer at your regular checkups, but some symptoms of oral cancer can be invisible to the naked eye. Our office utilizes an FDA approved device to detect oral cancer called a VELscope. The VELscope is non-invasive and uses a bright blue light to emphasize any changes in the mouth that a dentist or hygienist could not normally see.

The problem, for the most part, is that early oral cancer looks like everything else. It looks like a million other injuries and changes in the tissue in the mouth. It's a red spot or a white spot. We see them all the time. But using the VELscope to detect oral cancer can make abnormalities stand out like sore thumbs.

The Oral Cancer Foundation estimates that 34,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year alone, with only 50 percent still being alive in 5 years. The problem is much larger worldwide. Even with these statistics, the experts agree that early diagnosis pushes the five-year survival rate to an astonishing 80 percent. Since oral cancer can affect anyone, without regard to age or gender, it is very important to have regular screenings for this deadly disease. Talk with your dentist about the latest developments and technologies for diagnosing oral cancer.

If you have a mouth sore that doesn't go away and is accompanied by unexplained numbness in the face, mouth, or neck and/or problems chewing, speaking, or swallowing, call my office immediately!  Don't let fear keep you from getting a check-up -- oral cancer that is caught early is treatable and curable.