tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29651393117821116072024-02-20T12:02:29.296-08:00Cazenovia DentalAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-75217518831937004002015-09-27T12:54:00.000-07:002015-09-27T12:54:00.132-07:00PAINFUL SORES IN THE MOUTHSores in the mouth that last more than three weeks without healing should be evaluated by a dentist or oral surgeon. Period. Most non-cancerous sores should heal within a three-week time frame. There are two main groups of painful ulcerous lesions that form in the mouth. The first type is known as canker sores or recurrent aphthous ulcers. They are small whitish oblong sores. The second is cold sores or herpes simplex (type 1). These are viral lesions that are painful fluid-filled blisters and are extremely contagious. Both sores form ulcerous lesions that can be found at a single location or in groups. The differentiating factor is where the lesion is located. Canker sores form in the soft tissues not supported by underlying bone, such as the tongue, cheek and vestibule of the mouth. Cold sores typically form on tissue over bone such as the roof of your mouth and the gum tissue up to a half inch below where your teeth enter the gums. However, they can also be found around the surrounding lip surfaces.<br />
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Now let's look at how these two uniquely different sores are treated. Cold sores are viral lesions and can be treated with both topical and systemic corticosteriods. Since they are contagious, it is prudent that the lesions are treated in a timely fashion and are not able to spread. Both physicians or dentists can diagnose and prescribe this medication. Canker sores, on the other hand, are treated using over the counter medications. Examples of these products are: Kanca, Orabase B, Vitamin B12 and Anbesol. Although these medications will not expedite the healing of the lesions, they will numb them and make it more comfortable to eat and talk.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-41530766373064496352015-09-26T12:32:00.000-07:002015-09-26T12:32:00.311-07:00I STILL HAVE MY BABY TOOTH AS AN ADULTI bet you didn't know that five percent of adults are congenitally missing one or more permanent teeth. So this condition is not as rare as one might think. In my practice it is very prevalent; I see it all the time. The causes of this phenomenon vary; however, there is a strong genetic predisposition to congenitally missing teeth. I see patterns of this condition from parents to children and on down to their grandparents.<br />
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In most cases the baby tooth can stay anchored in your jaw decades longer than it was designed for. I have patients in their sixties and seventies that still have functioning baby teeth!!! Many individuals, however, lose their baby teeth as an adult much earlier in their lives. This is due to poor hygiene practices. Poor hygiene soon leads to large fillings in these teeth and they soon disintegrate or become loose. The bottom line: REMEMBER TO BRUSH AND FLOSS THIS TOOTH faithfully, as the enamel in a baby tooth is thinner and weaker than that of a permanent tooth.<br />
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If you do lose your primary tooth it is usually replaced with a dental implant and crown or a bridge, which is permanently anchored to the two teeth adjacent to the lost primary tooth space.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-49789690006680062492015-09-24T12:08:00.000-07:002015-09-24T12:12:53.840-07:00ADULT BRACES WITH CROWNSMany adults believe they're not candidates for braces because they have crowned teeth in their mouth. This simply isn't so anymore. Conventional braces, that is, braces with brackets and archwires bonded onto natural teeth enamel, can now be bonded to porcelain surfaces. Therefore, crowned teeth can move and straighten just as predictably as natural teeth. There is an alternative method to straighten teeth that doesn't involve wires or bonding brackets to teeth. This revolutionary method is known as Invisalign, which utilizes a series of crystal clear, comfortable and virtually invisible retainers or aligners. You wear each retainer for two weeks while it gently moves each tooth into position and then replace it with the next sequential aligner until the teeth are straight. No bonding brackets to teeth are needed!<br />
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Don't let your crowns stop you from having the beautiful smile of your dreams. It's never too late for a beautiful smile. The advances in cosmetic dentistry are truly amazing!!!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-90520806393230164222015-09-24T11:57:00.001-07:002015-09-24T11:57:46.185-07:00TEETH GRINDING IN ADULTSI deal with this problem almost every day with patients. When you wake up with a stiff, tired, achy jaw that gets better as the day goes on, you most likely are grinding your teeth during the night. Grinding at night, also known as bruxism, is a habit of tightly squeezing your top and bottom teeth together while at the same time sliding them back and forth over each other. Clenching, on the other hand, is when you squeeze your teeth tightly together only, without sliding them back and forth on each other. Bruxism can happen at any age to children or adults. Many children do this at an early age but outgrow the habit. Fortunately, when they do grind it is on their primary or baby teeth which will be lost anyway,<br />
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People who suffer from bruxism may have the following symptoms: (1) Facial pain. Grinding your teeth back and forth under high pressure will cause the muscles in your jaw and neck to contract and release 75% more than in normal use. This lends to lactic acid building up in your muscles, resulting in spasm. (2) Worn, broken and cracked teeth and fillings. Studies show that the pressure on your teeth during grinding is five times higher than the pressure from normal chewing. This extra force is pulverizing your teeth. Studies indicate that those who grind their teeth experience up to 80 times the normal wear per day compared with those who don't. (3) Loose teeth. If left untreated, this powerful force of rocking your teeth back and forth will loosen your teeth in the jaw. (4) Headaches and/or earaches from spasming muscles. (5) Cold sensitivity and/or sore teeth when chewing. The first symptom of an injured or inflamed nerve inside a tooth is cold sensitivity. This will be resolved if the forces on teeth are eliminated.<br />
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So what causes bruxism? Why do some individuals grind and others don't? One of the major causes of bruxism is stress. Bruxism can be a neuro-muscular reaction to stress. We don't know the full process, but if you go to bed with undue stress, there is a good chance you will grind your teeth for a portion of the night. Studies indicate it is during the deep REM part of your sleeping pattern that bruxism occurs. Abnormal biting, where teeth don't close correctly, can also lead to bruxism, as the body will try and grind the teeth down until it feels proper.<br />
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Bruxism is primarily treated with an acrylic nightguard that is worn while you sleep. This nightguard slips over either the upper or lower teeth, preventing the teeth from touching. It protects teeth and prevents them from wearing down. When a dentist fabricates this nightguard, he or she will adjust it so all teeth slide evenly over each other like a skating rink. The once tense muscles will begin to relax and muscle fatigue will be eliminated.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-16895088386554591422015-08-05T17:03:00.000-07:002015-09-26T17:04:12.873-07:00ENAMEL LOSSWhat the heck is enamel, anyways? Enamel is the thin, translucent, hard outer layer of the teeth that protects them from the daily stress of chewing, biting and grinding; temperature of hot and cold foods and drinks; and erosive acids. Despite being the strongest material in your body, a variety of factors can cause enamel erosion or loss of enamel. Loss of enamel increases teeth sensitivity, exposes stains on teeth, increases vulnerability to cavities and decay, and creates rough and irregular teeth edges and dents on teeth surfaces.<br />
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Enamel loss is primarily caused by erosive acids that wear away enamel over time. Excessive consumption of soft drinks, which contain high amounts of phosphoric and citric acids, and other acidic drinks and foods such as fruit drinks and sour foods or candies, is the leading cause of acid-related enamel loss. Coke, for example, contains citric and phosphoric acids. Frequent consumption of medicines and supplements containing high acid content, including aspirin, antihistamines and vitamin C supplements also cause enamel loss.<br />
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Environmental factors in the mouth, or the physical wear and tear from daily friction and stress on the teeth, are another contributing factor of enamel loss. Environmental causes of enamel loss include friction from clenching or grinding your teeth, especially during sleep, and wear and tear from brushing your teeth too hard, improper flossing, biting hard objects or chewing tobacco.<br />
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Low saliva production is also another cause of enamel loss. Saliva strengthens both your teeth and their enamel by coating them with calcium and other strengthening minerals. Saliva also protects against enamel loss by diluting and washing away erosive acids and other wastes left over from foods and drinks and also by producing substances that fight against mouth bacteria and disease that can cause enamel loss. While a healthy amount of saliva production can protect enamel from erosive effects of acidic foods and drinks, excessive consumption of acidic foods and drinks decreases saliva production and saliva's ability to strengthen teeth and enamel. Excessive plaque can also contribute to enamel loss, so regular brushing, flossing, dental checkups and cleanings are essential!!! Toothpastes with fluoride in them can strengthen and remineralize slight to moderate enamel breakdown; a great way to protect your enamel!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-36266758381339100792015-08-04T13:56:00.000-07:002015-09-24T13:57:40.636-07:00HELP, MY TONGUE IS BURNING!!!This painful condition is called burning mouth. This is a painful sensation felt in almost all the areas of the tongue. Usually the burning sensation worsens as the day progresses. Some of my patients experience a tingling or numb sensation in their mouth or on the tip of the tongue. Some experience dry mouth, increased thirst, a general soreness in the mouth and a bitter or metallic taste in the mouth. Other names are scalded mouth syndrome, burning tongue syndrome, burning lips syndrome, glossodynia and stomatodynia. Burning tongue basically affects the tongue, gums, lips, inside of the cheeks, roof of the mouth and other areas of the mouth. Sometimes people affected with burning tongue lose their sense of taste temporarily. Some causes of burning tongue are: hormonal abnormalities, diabetes, menopause, medications, tobacco use, and the list goes on and on.<br />
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Now the most important part of this week's subject. What should people do who are experiencing this very bothersome syndrome? Unfortunately, there's no one sure way to treat burning mouth syndrome. Good solid research on how to treat it is lacking. Your treatment depends solely on your individual symptoms. We also need to take into consideration any underlying conditions that may be causing your discomfort.<br />
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Obviously, replacing poorly fitting dentures or correcting a vitamin deficiency may help. If you are lucky enough to pinpoint the cause and can get it treated, your burning mouth syndrome symptoms should improve.<br />
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If your cause can't be found, treatment can be extremely challenging. Unfortunately, there's no known cure for the syndrome. So, like many medical conditions, practitioners are left with controlling the symptoms. Treatment options could include: saliva replacement products, medications that block nerve pain, certain antidepressants, cognitive behavioral therapy, specific oral rinses or lidocaine, capsaicin (a pain reliever made from chili peppers).Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-90974631806744721072015-08-03T13:03:00.000-07:002015-09-24T13:03:34.708-07:00DENTURE AND PARTIAL UPGRADESOver a period of time, your denture will need to be relined or rebased. I will discuss these procedures below. In general, a full denture (which replaces all your teeth) or partial (which hooks onto at least a couple remaining teeth) will remain functional for a period of approximately seven to ten years. At that time, they should be evaluated for possible replacement.<br />
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Let's take a look at why dentures and partials loosen with time,. First, when teeth are lost, jawbone starts to melt away or atrophy, leaving a gap or space under your partial or denture. When the jawbone is no longer directly stimulated by the chewing pressure a tooth provides to the bone, the bone, as a result, atrophies. As the bone atrophies, the space under your denture and partial cause it to shift and become loose. Extra food will also pack into this newly created space.<br />
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As long as the space isn't too large, it can be filled in with new acrylic (a process called a reline). When the space gets excessive a denture may need rebasing. Rebasing means making a new plastic base while keeping the existing denture teeth. On the other hand, when the denture teeth become worn, a new denture or partial should be made.<br />
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As a side note, I highly recommend people with full dentures have an oral cancer evaluation once a year. Sores, irritations and new found red or white lesions under dentures that don't heal should be evaluated by a dentist.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-33906436843940864232015-06-03T07:05:00.000-07:002015-06-03T07:05:26.475-07:00BAD BREATH IIas promised, here is the continuation of my blog on bad breath. points 6-10 follow! <div>
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6. Our lungs can play a part in bad breath. In most cases, bad breath from the lungs has one of two causes: either some kind of disease or infection, or something you ate or drank that enters the bloodstream and releases odors when the blood enters the lungs. Obviously, a lung disease or disorder can and usually will result in bad breath. Lung cancer causes a distinct breath, as well as cystic fibrosis and asthma. When we exhale, we're actually removing carbon dioxide carried to our lungs by the blood. Diabetes causes a distinct "sweet and fruity" bad breath smell. Again, breath that is so distinct that it can be a clue in diagnosing diabetes. Kidney and liver disorders can send unwanted smells to the blood. Getting the disease diagnosed and under control may be the only defense against the bad breath associated with it.</div>
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7. Last blog I discussed foods that contribute to smelly breath. Onions, garlic and meat are big culprits. But did you know there are certain foods that make your breath smell good, too? Take fruits high in vitamin C, for example. Melons, berries and citrus fruits such as oranges are packed with vitamin C, something that doesn't get along with the bacteria in your mouth. Rather than continuing to reproduce, the bacteria will begin to die off. So, the more vitamin C-laden fruits you eat, the more nasty mouth germs you kill. Other foods that help: raw, crunchy fruits and veggies. Celery, carrots and apples are all good options to munch after a meal, as these fiber-packed foods help remove food that's stuck in your teeth. They also stimulate saliva, which is detrimental to bacteria. Try chasing your meal with green tea or simply sip it throughout the day. It has antibacterial compounds that fight the germs in your mouth. Mint, parsley, basil, cilantro and dill release scented essential oils when chewed or crushed. Chlorophyll is the green pigment that allows plants to photosynthesize energy from light. It also helps neutralize internal body odors-including bad breath. Parsley may not be your idea of a great dessert but chewing a little after a meal could do wonders for your breath!</div>
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8. What you drink can cause bad breath, too. Consuming an acidic drink, including soda, coffee or alcohol, will release compounds into your bloodstream that will, in turn, release odors through your breath. Plus, they lower the pH level in your mouth. A lower pH allows bacteria to flourish and release foul sulfur compounds, smelling similar to a rotten egg. Yuck. Even if you can't stand the thought of giving up your morning latte, you can still freshen your breath by doing one simple thing: Rinse your mouth with plain water after drinking it. This will aid in re-balancing your mouth's pH levels. Try rinsing with water after meals, too. It will help to remove food particles left in your mouth after a meal, preventing bad breath from setting in.</div>
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9. Cigarettes just plain stink. If you're one of the 46.5 million Americans who still smoke cigarettes, you no doubt battle bad breath daily. Not only do cigarettes release a cocktail of chemicals into your mouth, but they also cause a host of other problems. People who smoke cigarettes are much more likely to experience oral infections and disease. In addition, they often have excessive plaque buildup on their teeth, and plaque is the perfect place to harbor odor-causing bacteria. In a nutshell.......DO WHATEVER IT TAKES TO QUIT!!!</div>
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10. One of the most common causes of persistent bad breath is also one of the most overlooked: a lack of regularly scheduled visits to your dentist. The American Dental Association recommends that children and adults have a professional cleaning regularly. For most, twice a year should be enough. For others who experience tartar buildup more quickly, four times a year may be necessary. The professional cleaning process not only removes tartar from the teeth which, if untreated, could lead to gum disease, but it also can identify any infected areas that need treatment.</div>
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REMEMBER, GETTING TO THE ROOT OF THE PROBLEM WILL, IN MOST CASES, ENSURE SWEET-SMELLING BREATH!!!</div>
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Hope you've enjoyed the subject. Now here's to better breath!!!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-4983330789576188452015-05-28T11:18:00.000-07:002015-05-28T11:18:05.156-07:00BAD BREATH II want to discuss ten ways to get rid of bad breath. I'll discuss five in this blog and the last five in the next.<br />
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<li>The most obvious one is brush and floss! Your mouth contains millions of bacteria. In fact, there are probably more bacteria colonized in your mouth than there are cells in your entire body. Of the some 700 kinds of bacteria that thrive in the mouth, scientists have identified and studied fewer than half - which makes it difficult to know exactly how to combat the odors that all those bacteria give off as a byproduct when they digest their food. Regardless, there are a few things you can do to beat the bad breath caused by germs. Start by keeping your mouth clean. Your food supply is their food supply. Although you can try to kill bacteria with mouthwash, this is only a temporary solution. The bacteria will grow back over time. Your best defense is to brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day, and floss once a day. This will help remove the food trapped between your teeth, as well as the food trapped in the gum line. Otherwise, both of these areas would provide breeding grounds for bacteria. If food particles are left to linger, bad breath is imminent.</li>
<li>Scrape your tongue. Scientists suspect bacteria, particularly bacteria located on the top of your tongue closest to your throat, actually protect against foul-smelling breath. Other types of bacteria, however, produce a pungent odor as they multiply. What does this mean for you? The type of bacteria most prevalent on your tongue could mean the difference between good and bad breath. Unfortunately, researchers don't yet know how to tip the bacterial balance so that you'll always have naturally sweet breath. So....get yourself a tongue cleaner. This handheld device is designed to scrape the surface of the tongue and remove the odor-causing debris from its surface.</li>
<li>Hydrate your mouth. After a good night's sleep, you no doubt get a whiff of your morning breath. Why is morning breath so awful? You produce less saliva when you're asleep. Saliva contains oxygen, and oxygen deters the growth of bacteria. Actually, your mouth can become dry during the waking hours for myriads of reasons. Saliva cleans your mouth, it's naturally antibacterial, and it washes away food particles. So, brush and floss, scrape your tongue, rinse with clear nonalcoholic mouthwash, and drink drink drink water throughout the day. Water is so important to the body for so many reasons, so drink up. You'll feel great and it deters energy slumps.</li>
<li>Don't mask the mess. Relying on a mint to mask bad breath works as well as using perfume to mask body odor. The smell breaks through eventually. Mints and gum don't kill the bacteria that's causing the stench. It's also possible that your stinky breath is caused by a medical condition. Although mouth odor is often associated with gum disease or tooth decay, it can occasionally signal health problems such as respiratory or sinus infections, bronchitis, diabetes or kidney or liver malfunctions. If checkups with your dentist or physician don't uncover a medical condition, AND if you're cleaning your teeth and tongue on a regular basis, the cause could be as close as your dinner plate. Which leads me to number 5.</li>
<li>Eat right smell right. The foods you ingest can exert lots of influence on how your breath smells. The obvious culprits are garlic or onions. Some bad breath causing foods may surprise you. Meat particles are known for sticking around, even after you've swallowed your steak and washed it down with liquid. They collect at the gum line, get stuck between teeth and sometimes make their way under fillings or crowns - and are especially attractive to reproducing bacteria. High protein and low-carb diets aren't great for your breath. Eating fewer than 100 grams of carbs a day causes a condition known as ketosis. While this condition forces your body to burn fat instead of sugar, ketosis is notorious for causing bad breath.</li>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-31356622609181128562015-05-18T09:25:00.000-07:002015-05-18T09:25:02.278-07:00TEN EASY STEPS FOR HEALTHY GUMSI wanted to touch on this subject because I get asked about gums A LOT! So many people are fanatics about caring for their teeth and forget about their gums. And don't get me wrong, properly caring for your teeth is vital for your overall health. But did you know gum health is just as important? Gum issues can very painful and can lead to other health risks or possibly the loss of one tooth or multiple teeth. Here are ten easy ways to keep your gums their healthiest:<br />
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<li>Brush twice a day for two minutes at a 45-degree angle. Brush gently in a circular motion.</li>
<li>Floss daily. No excuses! This not only removes food left in your teeth but also removes unwanted plaque. AND daily flossing also wards off gum disease, even if your gums bleed when you floss.</li>
<li>Use alcohol-free mouthwash. This will prevent your mouth from getting too dry. And remember, a high saliva level fights tooth decay and overall gum health.</li>
<li>Eat right. Balanced nutrition is great for your overall health, and, most importantly, keeps you away from sugary foods and drinks that cause tooth decay.</li>
<li>Take in more vitamin C. Eating vegetables and fruits daily provides a good source of vitamin C. When our bodies are low in this vital nutrient, it can cause our gums to bleed and also sabotages our body's ability to perform maintenance and repairs in our system. Vitamin C is abundant in sweet potatoes, red peppers, oranges and strawberries.</li>
<li>Get enough calcium daily. Rich sources are milk, yogurt and cheese. Calcium protects your gums from disease as it strengthens your teeth and jaw bone.</li>
<li> Drink more water. Enough water encourages good saliva levels. Water also rinses away pieces of food, decreasing chances of tooth decay.</li>
<li>Stop using tobacco. This might be the single most important way to avoid gum disease. Tobacco causes additional calculus to form on your teeth. Smokeless products cause your gums to recede, affecting your jaw bone, leading to tooth loss.</li>
<li>Manage your stress! Here's another important way to keep your overall health the best it can be. Stress leads to increased cortisol release, leading to overall swelling and inflammation all over your body, even in your gums.</li>
<li>Here's another biggie! See your dental team twice a year for exams and cleanings. Gum issues can be caught early and we can help you with preventive care. </li>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-69371987668619890572015-05-07T14:22:00.000-07:002015-05-07T14:22:27.163-07:00TOP HOME DENTAL REMEDIES Part 2As promised last time, today's blog offers three more dental remedies you can try at home if you have a toothache. Cavities often cause tooth pain, along with fillings that have come loose, an abscess (pocket of infection at the gum line), cracked tooth, or a sinus infection. One caveat before I begin, however, is that you should ALWAYS contact your dentist and arrange for an appointment at the very first sign of severe oral pain. Never wait. That being said, here are a couple of very popular tried and true remedies:<br />
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<li>CLOVE OIL TO THE RESCUE - Cloves are traditionally used for numbing nerves; the primary chemical component of cloves is eugenol, a natural anesthetic. You need to be careful to keep the oil off sensitive gum tissue and your tongue. Put a couple drops on a cotton ball and place it against the tooth itself until the pain subsides. You can also use powdered cloves or place a whole clove on the painful tooth. Chew the whole clove gently to release its oil and keep in place for up to 30 minutes or until pain subsides.</li>
<li>SWISH SOME SALT WATER - A teaspoon of salt dissolved in a cup of boiling water makes a painkilling mouthwash, which helps to clean away irritating debris and help reduce swelling. Swish for about 30 seconds. Salt water cleanses the area around the tooth and draws out some of the fluid that causes swelling. Repeat as needed.</li>
<li>COVER A CRACKED TOOTH WITH GUM - If you've broken a tooth or have lost a filling, you can relieve some pain by covering the exposed area with softened chewing gum. This might work with a loose filling as well, to hold it in place until you can get to the dentist. To avoid further discomfort, avoid chewing anything with that tooth until you can have it repaired.</li>
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These are a few of the most popular ideas you can use at home when experiencing tooth pain. I hope you find this informational. Remember, contact your dentist if you are experiencing severe pain.<ol>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-58182165057762092652015-05-04T09:15:00.000-07:002015-05-04T09:15:28.822-07:00MOST POPULAR HOME DENTAL REMEDIES Part 1I often get asked about natural dental remedies so decided to share this very popular topic. I'm going to start with dry sockets. A dry socket occurs when the blood clot safeguarding the gap created by a missing/removed tooth is dislodged from its place. When this happens, the gap opens up to expose the nerves and bones beneath the gums. This would cause food particles, fluids and other residues to collect in the gap and irritate the exposed bones and nerves, causing immense pain, swelling, dizziness, recurrent headaches and even fever. The top three most effective remedies to treat this painful condition follow:<br />
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<li>Placing ice packs on the face above the dry socket can reduce the pain. Placing the ice pack or cold towel on the face for about 15 minutes three times a day can provide relief.</li>
<li>Rinsing the mouth with lukewarm saline water solution four to five times a day can provide relief from a dry socket and its symptoms. The warmth of the saline solution reduces the pain and swelling, while the salt content would destroy any bacteria or virus present.</li>
<li>Applying some clove oil on the dry socket can reduce the pain and swelling caused by the condition. <i style="font-weight: bold;">Clove oil can sting a bit, so it is best to dilute it beforehand. </i>Accordingly, you can soak a wad of cotton in water and then squeeze it to remove the water. Dab some clove oil on the soaked cotton and place it on the dry socket for instant relief. You can also place the cotton wad on the neighboring teeth if they hurt. Follow this remedy two times every day to get relief from the symptoms of a dry socket.</li>
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In my next blog I will discuss toothache remedies to help you until you can get to your dentist.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-14806555755745298272015-04-30T11:38:00.002-07:002015-04-30T11:38:40.347-07:00MANUAL VS. ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSHES Manual vs. Electric Toothbrushes<br />
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Many people ask my opinion of using manual vs. electric toothbrushes, so I decided to write a blog addressing this subject. Brushing for the same amount of time, the electric toothbrush will be more effective at removing plaque than a regular toothbrush. That being said, it doesn't mean a regular toothbrush can't be as effective at removing plaque. It will take more time and effort on your part.<br />
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Children especially benefit from using an electric toothbrush. My personal favorite is the Oral-B Braun electric toothbrush. Kids' use of an electric toothbrush makes up for their lack of skill and motivation when brushing! Electric toothbrushes are very effective for folks wanting to remove teeth staining.<br />
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There are a couple downsides to electric toothbrushes. Most importantly, you need to be careful to move the brush lightly over each tooth, not spending too much time on each one. Because of the rotation of the brushes, you can damage your gums if you are too aggressive. Be sure to purchase the highest quality and softest bristle heads available. Also, the heads need to be replaced as often as your regular brush, every three months. If you're on a budget this can be pricey! If you are in need of a complimentary toothbrush, stop by our office! We'd love to meet you!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-13665172985351724062015-03-11T12:15:00.000-07:002015-09-24T12:42:19.583-07:00HELP, I KNOCKED MY PERMANENT FRONT TOOTH OUT!In the case of an adult tooth being knocked out, the sooner a tooth is put back the greater chance of success. Two actions are critical: that it be put back into its socket as soon as possible and that you see a dentist as soon as possible to secure the tooth.<br />
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If there is a competent person who is able to place the tooth back into its socket, place it back into the socket without delay. Don't wait to see a dentist. If the tooth is clean, do it immediately. Hold the tooth by the crown (the white shiny part normally seen in the mouth) and not the root (the tapered, yellowish part). The root has delicate cells needed to reattach the tooth so try not to touch this part. Pay attention to get the tooth placed correctly. Look at the shape of the adjacent tooth. Push the tooth gently back into position. Once the tooth is back in place, get the injured person to bite gently on a cloth until they can see a dentist.<br />
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If the tooth is dirty, rinse the tooth in cold water or milk. Do not scrub the tooth or try to disinfect it. This will damage the delicate cells on the root needed to reattach the tooth to the gum. The tooth must be kept moist. Milk is the ideal liquid to keep the tooth in. Do not store the tooth in anything except milk (ideal) or water (next best). Do not wrap the tooth in anything. If there's no milk or water available, put the tooth in the injured person's mouth between their cheek and gum (unless of course it's a child). If the tooth is kept moist until it's replaced in the socket, there is a greater chance of permanent recovery. It may still be successful up to 24 hours after the accident.<br />
<br />
A dentist will then bond a splint to the reattached tooth and the adjacent teeth to prevent any movement. The splint should stay in place for two to three weeks. The tooth will then be evaluated to see if root canal therapy will be necessary. It is also recommended a tetanus shot be administered if it's been a while since you've had one.<br />
<br />
In the case of a recent patient's front permanent tooth being knocked out, fortunately, her tooth was saved and healed nicely. I was able to put the tooth back in its socket in perfect alignment with her adjacent teeth. This scenario can have a happy ending if you know how to handle it!!!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-11478829419072083022015-01-21T15:38:00.000-08:002015-01-11T10:15:52.653-08:00SMILE SAFETY FOR ACTIVE KIDS<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
While helmets, goggles and knee pads
protect your kids’ bodies, it’s also important to protect their teeth. A mouth guard is an easy, reliable way to
safeguard your child’s teeth during sports and play.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mouth guards are especially crucial during contact sports
such as football, hockey or boxing, where blows to the body and face are
regular occurrences. But even
non-contact sports, such as gymnastics, and recreational pastimes, such as
skating or biking, pose a risk to the teeth.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In addition to cushioning your child’s teeth, using a mouth guard
can prevent injury to the tongue, lips, face and jaw. Kids who wear dental braces should be especially
careful to protect their mouths during physical activity.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A trip to the dentist can help you choose a mouth guard
that’s right for your child. In general,
there are three types of mouth guards to choose from:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
</div>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Stock Mouth guards.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">These pre-made protectors can usually be
bought wherever sporting equipment is sold.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Most dentists do not recommend their use because they cannot be adjusted
to your mouth and provide only limited protection.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Boil-and-Bite Mouth guards.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Boil-and-Bite guards are softened with hot
water and then molded over your child’s teeth.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">This somewhat custom fit leads to better protection and greater ease in
talking and breathing.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">These are also
available at most sporting goods stores.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Custom Mouth guards.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Your dentist can create a custom mouth guard
designed specifically for your child’s teeth.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">These offer the best fit, comfort and protection, but may be more costly
than store-bought varieties.</span></li>
</ol>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-13470565125165996682015-01-07T15:30:00.002-08:002015-01-07T15:30:36.459-08:00START THE NEW YEAR BY QUITTING!!!<div class="MsoNormal">
Looking for another reason to quit? Recent studies at Boston University’s Goldman
School of Dental Medicine reveal that your gender, how much you smoke and how
long you’ve been smoking can significantly multiply your need for root canal
treatment. To sum up the findings, men
and women are distinctly different when it comes to dental health.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Men, it turns out, have the odds stacked against them when
it comes to cavities, gum disease and oral cancer. Smoking puts men at twice the risk for
developing these dental problems than women.
Men who smoke also need more root canals.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Our study has shown that men have almost twice the risk of
having root canal treatments if they smoke cigarettes, compared to men who
never smoke,” said Elizabeth Krall Kaye, author of the Boston University study
and professor in the department of health policy and health services.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So does that mean women are in the clear? Not really, says Kaye. Historically, women haven’t smoked as long or
as much per day as men but Kay believes that the risk associated with smoking
and root canals still applies.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Although it might seem obvious, why smoking makes men and
women more susceptible to dental problems is still somewhat of a mystery. Kaye and her associates think the answers lie
in what smoking does to your overall health:
It affects your ability to ward off infection, increases inflammation
and damages your circulation system.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The good news is you can greatly reduce your need for root
canals by quitting cigarette smoking and staying smoke-free. In fact, if you stay smoke-free for at least
nine years, your chances of needing a root canal treatment can drop as low as a
non-smoker’s.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-13020796944666640452014-12-03T16:54:00.000-08:002015-01-11T10:14:27.598-08:00FLOSSING CAN ADD YEARS TO YOUR LIFEI ran across this research lately and know it will encourage those of you who don't floss to start!!!<br />
<br />
Flossing is a staple of the oral hygiene routine recommended by everybody's dentist. But, unfortunately, many folks blow off this vitally important daily habit. Overlooking the importance of one little strand of floss is an easy mistake to make in a day and age of high-powered electric toothbrushes, tongue scrapers, and laser whitening. With so many high-tech gizmos available to get your mouth futuristically clean, the humble minty string tends to get lost in the shuffle. With all the high-tech stuff out there, there is still no viable alternative to flossing. You see, flossing cleans the inner surfaces of your teeth and gum line that other oral care modalities simply cannot reach. How about this word picture? Not flossing is the same as leaving one-third of your mouth unwashed. Gross to think about, right? This will shock you: Those who do floss have been proven to enjoy a longer life expectancy.<br />
<br />
Flossing every day is a vital step to prevent gum disease, as well as being an aesthetic life-saver when stubborn foods such as spinach or broccoli get lodged between your teeth. I hate when that happens! Believe it or not, flossing plays a very important role in protecting your heart. By flossing, you are effectively scraping harmful bacteria away in an effort to prevent it from inflaming your gums. If left to multiply, this bacteria enters your cardiovascular system and accumulates in your arteries. Plaque formation there leads to clogged arteries. Then, to make matters even worse, gum inflammation signals your body to trigger an immune system response, narrowing the arteries.<br />
<br />
Estimates vary on the exact length of time that flossing can add to your life. Scientists can't determine an exact figure, considering the myriad of variables that they must account for when calculating life expectancies. Doctors and dentists agree that reducing the body's exposure to bacteria and limiting its immune response results in the addition of anywhere between six and nine years. I said six to nine years. Unbelieveable, right?<br />
<br />
Flossing your teeth should be a daily habit, and should never take more than 20-30 seconds once you're proficient. Products such as preloaded floss on a handle make this procedure a total snap. And remember, when it comes to intensity, less is more Aggressive flossing can recede the gum line which, ironically, increases your risk of gum disease.<br />
<br />
I hope I have convinced all of you out there who haven't flossed before to GET GOING!!! It's simple, fast, and can add years to your life!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-66739652948458183662013-07-24T12:27:00.000-07:002015-01-11T12:56:36.991-08:00FILLING THE GAPSick of looking at that gap caused by having lost a tooth years ago? You have two excellent options. First of all, nothing can take the place of a healthy natural tooth. The next best solution, knowing what I know, you can't beat a dental implant. A dental implant is a titanium (same as used in hip and knee replacements) cylinder that is surgically placed in the upper or lower jaw. It is a freestanding unit, meaning it is not connected to any teeth. Your jawbone actually fuses to the titanium metal, making it actually stronger than your natural tooth. The beauty of this implant is because, being metal, it is NEVER susceptible to decay. Furthermore, it is more resilient to gum disease, since it doesn't develop the same "pocketing" as natural teeth. A crown or cap is then placed over the implant, and you have a strong, stable and comfortable tooth, allowing you to bite and chew naturally. A dental implant looks good, feels good and lasts a long time.<br />
<br />
The second way to fill in your missing tooth is known as a bridge. A bridge utilizes the two natural teeth on either side of the space where your missing tooth was extracted. A bridge depends on the health and strength of these two supporting teeth. Therefore, a dentist needs to determine whether these two teeth have solid bone support and have good tooth structure and no gum disease. A bridge is then fabricated by placing a crown over the two natural teeth on either side of the missing tooth and connecting a replacement tooth to these crowns therefore bridging the gap. It is then "permanently" cemented over the natural two teeth. Today, these bridges can be fabricated from a stunningly beautiful and strong material called zirconium. No metal is used in the fabricating process, producing a lifelike and natural restoration. The advances in dentistry are AMAZING!!!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-67796990671423356182013-07-17T10:55:00.000-07:002015-01-11T11:12:07.271-08:00TOP TEN REASONS TO SEE A DENTISTWe all love top-ten lists, so here you go!<br />
<br />
1. Fight cancer. Every hour in the U.S., a person dies from oral cancer. Only a dentist can do a thorough oral exam and catch the signs of oral cancer early. Please, leave this diagnosis to the professionals and don't forget that physicians don't substitute for a dentist for this diagnosis.<br />
<br />
2. Maintain your teeth and bones. A dentist will help enable you to keep your teeth longer. Maintaining the bony ridges that support the teeth is important for the health of your teeth. Plus, if you've lost teeth, this leaves the possibility of implant placement in the future.<br />
<br />
3. Have a whiter and more dazzling smile. This is pretty obvious, right? A visit to the dentist can remove the common causes of staining. Plus, if you choose, you can take it a step further and go for whitening treatments as well.<br />
<br />
4. To set good standards for your children. Having children see the dentist early on in their life allows them to develop a positive attitude toward dentists, prevent future fears from forming, as well as other important issues. Orthodontic issues can be settled early, sealants can be placed, and early decay can be detected. Sadly, by the time children are in third grade, 50-70% of children have at least one cavity.<br />
<br />
5. Periodontal diseases (gum disease or pyria) can be prevented. Regular dental cleanings can prevent this serious gum disease from starting or spreading to other places.<br />
<br />
6. If periodontal or gum diseases start, they can be treated. Why is this so important? Because they are time dependent. Even the best dentists can't reverse severely progressed periodontitis. Since treatment is usually a painless process, it's important to see a dentist to determine whether or not these diseases are starting to affect you. Earlier the better, ALWAYS!!!<br />
<br />
7. Periodontal disease can be reversed in its early stages. Early detection provides benefits to your overall health way beyond your oral cavity. Periodontal diseases have been noted clinically to contribute to the development of heart disease, increase the risk of stroke, as well as increase a woman's risk of having a preterm, low birth weight baby. If that's not enough, it poses a threat to people who have diabetes, respiratory conditions, and osteoporosis.<br />
<br />
8. Your dentist can detect other systemic conditions that may be brewing earlier than a family doctor, including hypertension and diabetes. A dentist can spot issues that a physician, who doesn't examine the mouth, often can't. Furthermore, infections in the jaw and gums, including abscesses, that go undetected, can lead to heart attacks and strokes.<br />
<br />
9. To save money. If decay is detected and treated in its early stages, it prevents the need for costlier treatment later. For example, if decay reaches the tooth's pulp, it would result in the need for root canal therapy. If that same decay was caught earlier, just a small filling would have been all that was needed.<br />
<br />
10. Seeing a dentist regularly will save lost time from work. Surveys have shown that poor dental health results in lost productivity. Dental pain prevents folks from going to work. Secondary infections can result in serious illnesses that take more time away from work.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-31517288750661050862013-07-03T10:19:00.000-07:002015-01-11T10:47:36.364-08:00DENTAL INSURANCE 101I decided to put this in question form so it's easier to follow. The questions below are the ones I hear most frequently when it comes to dental insurance in our office.<br />
<br />
Q: Why doesn't my insurance cover all the costs for my dental treatment?<br />
A: Dental insurance isn't really insurance at all. It is actually a money benefit typically provided by an employer to help their employees pay for routine dental treatment. Another way to look at it is a coupon to use to pay a portion of your costs.<br />
<br />
Q: My plan says that my exams and certain other procedures are covered 100%.<br />
A: That 100% is usually what the insurance carrier allows as payment toward the procedure, not what your dentist or any other dentist in your area may actually charge. For example, say your dentist charges $145 for an examination. Your carrier may allow $100 as the 100% payment for that examination, leaving $45 for you to pay.<br />
<br />
Q: If I always have a balance to pay, what good is my insurance?<br />
A: Even a benefit plan that doesn't cover a large portion of the cost of needed dentistry pays something. Any amount covered reduces what you have to pay out of pocket! Those who don't have dental insurance, which is typically 40-60% of the population, have to pay the TOTAL amount. So be thankful if you do have dental insurance benefits.<br />
<br />
Q: How does my insurance carrier come up with its allowed payments?<br />
A: Many carriers refer to their allowed payments as usual, customary and reasonable or UCR. However, usual, customary and reasonable does not really mean exactly what it seems to mean. UCR is actually a listing of payments for all covered procedures negotiated by your employer and the insurance company. It has no bearing on what your dentist's fees are. It doesn't mean your dentist is charging more than others are. This listing is related to the cost of the premiums and where you are located in your city and state. Your employer has likely selected an allowed payment or UCR payment that corresponds to the premium cost they desire. UCR payments could be more accurately called negotiated payments.<br />
<br />
Q: I received an Explanation of Benefits from my insurance carrier that says my dental bill exceeded the usual and customary, UCR. Does this mean that a dentist is charging more than he/she should?<br />
A: Remember that what insurance carriers call usual and customary is really just what your employer and the insurance company have negotiated as the amount that will be paid toward your treatment. It is usually less and frequently much less than what any dentist in your area might actually charge for a dental procedure. It does not mean that your dentist is charging too much.<br />
<br />
Q: Why are you, Dr. Fauth, not on my benefit plan?<br />
A: The dentists on the list have agreed to a contract with the benefit plan.. These contracts have restrictions and requirements. For instance, I don't join plans when I'm not comfortable with the restrictions or their payments are so low I can't continue to provide the best quality dentistry I desire for my patient. I don't want to cut any corners when it comes to doing it right.<br />
<br />
Q: Why won't my plan pay anything toward some procedures?<br />
A: Your employer or group has decided how many procedures and how much they will pay annually. As in many areas of life, there are good dental plans and, quite frankly, not so good ones.<br />
<br />
Q: Why do some benefit plans require me to select a dentist from a list?<br />
A: Usually a dentist on the list has agreed to a contract with the benefit plan. These contracts have restrictions and requirements. Many insurance companies call these lists "preferred providers". This is a misnomer. They aren't better dentists; they are dentists the carriers prefer you go to. If your dentist is not on the list it doesn't mean that something is wrong with the dentist or the office. It usually means the insurance company's benefits pay too low to continue providing the kind of quality dentistry they desire.<br />
<br />
Q: What should I do if my insurance doesn't pay for treatment I think should be covered?<br />
A: Because your insurance coverage is between you, your employer and the insurance carrier, your dentist does not have the power to make your plan pay. If your insurance doesn't pay, you are responsible for the total cost of treatment. Sometimes a plan may pay if patients send in a claim for themselves. The Employee Benefits Coordinator at your place of employment may be able to help. Patients may also lodge complaints with the State Insurance Commission.<br />
<br />
Hope this sheds some light on this subject!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-55173459053182044942013-06-26T09:48:00.000-07:002015-01-11T10:04:36.457-08:00X-RAY RADIATION 101One question I get asked a lot is: Why do dental staff leave the room when x-rays are taken? Are x-rays dangerous? While the average patient has an x-ray taken once a year with a lead apron on, a dentist, hygienist or dental assistant takes dozens of x-rays all day long, day after day. This equates to a thousand or more a year. It would be a serious health concern for dental personnel to stay in the room with the patient while the x-ray is taken. So it is simply a safety protocol.<br />
<br />
Let's further look at the amount of radiation dental x-rays emit and why patients fear and resist dental x-rays. Many dentists, including myself, have invested in digital x-ray systems, the latest technology, which drastically reduces the already small amount of radiation conventional dental x-rays emit.<br />
<br />
The digital x-rays we utilize reduces radiation 80 to 90% over the film based x-rays everyone has experienced through the years. Let's compare the radiation one would receive from a digital x-ray to a medical chest x-ray or lower GI x-ray segment. A full set of dental x-rays has 50 times less radiation exposure than a GI series and 15 times less than a chest x-ray.<br />
<br />
As one of my dental school professors taught me, dentists' x-ray machines are like little pop guns compared to medical radiography, which more resemble howitzers. Dental radiography is truly safe. In dentistry, radiation from our x-ray units is emitted through a round tube or collimator that reduces scatter radiation to a 2 1/2" area. Furthermore, dentists place a lead apron over your lower extremities as an added precaution. In the days of high scatter radiation machines, a lead shield was very important. Today the lead apron offers more peace of mind than actual protection, because stray radiation from modern digital x-ray machines is almost nonexistent. Dental x-rays taken in a judicious fashion provide the dentist with an invaluable tool to diagnose hidden cavities between teeth, abscesses, cysts, jawbone cancer and tumors, and gum disease, to name some of the benefits. My day is filled with scores of patients who could have saved hundreds and sometimes thousands of dollars if they had had regular dental x-rays taken in a timely fashion.<br />
<br />
Utilizing dental x-rays is like seeing not only the tip of an iceberg which floats in the ocean, but the total extent of the ice structure below the water surface. We all know how that turned out for the Titanic! The captain couldn't see, and therefore didn't have, the total picture to avert a terrible disaster!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-26666224399075412692013-06-19T09:21:00.000-07:002015-01-11T10:12:19.101-08:00BRUXISM (TEETH GRINDING/CLENCHING)I deal with this issue almost daily with patients in my practice. When you wake up with a stiff, tired, achy jaw that gets better as the day goes on, you most likely are grinding your teeth during the night. Grinding at night, also known as bruxism, is a habit of tightly squeezing your top and bottom teeth together while at the same time sliding them back and forth over each other. Clenching, on the other hand, is when you squeeze your teeth tightly together only, without sliding them back and forth on each other. Bruxism can happen at any age to children or adults. Many children do this at an early age but outgrow the habit. Fortunately, when they do grind it is on their primary or baby teeth which will be lost anyway.<br />
<br />
People who suffer from bruxism may have the following symptoms: 1) Facial pain. Grinding your teeth back and forth under high pressure will cause the muscles in your jaw and neck to contract and release 75% more than in normal use. This lends to lactic acid building up in your muscles, resulting in spasm. 2) Worn, broken and cracked teeth and fillings. Studies show that the pressure on your teeth during grinding is five times higher than the pressure from normal chewing. This extra force is pulverizing your teeth. Studies indicate that those who grind their teeth experience up to 80 times the normal wear per day compared with those who don't. 3) Loose teeth. If left untreated, this powerful force of rocking your teeth back and forth will loosen your teeth in the jaw. 4) Headaches and/or earaches from spasming muscles. 5) Cold sensitivity and/or sore teeth when chewing. The first symptom of an injured or inflamed nerve inside a tooth is cold sensitivity. This will be resolved if the forces on teeth are eliminated.<br />
<br />
So what causes bruxism? Why do some individuals grind and others don't? One of the major causes of bruxism is stress. Bruxism can be a neuro-muscular reaction to stress. We don't know the full process, but if you go to bed with undue stress, there is a good chance you will grind your teeth for a portion of your sleep. Studies indicate bruxism occurs during the deep REM part of your sleeping pattern. Abnormal biting, where teeth don't close correctly, can also lead to bruxism, as the body will try and grind teeth down until it feels proper.<br />
<br />
Bruxism is primarily treated with an acrylic night guard that is worn while you sleep. This night guard slips over either the upper or lower teeth preventing the teeth from touching. It protects teeth and prevents them from wearing down. When a dentist fabricates this night guard, he or she will adjust it so all teeth slide evenly over each other like a skating rink. The once tense muscles will begin to relax and muscle fatigue will be eliminated.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-47828413267039338352013-06-12T11:45:00.000-07:002015-01-11T10:13:12.124-08:00DENTAL SEALANTS<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sealants are thin
protective coatings that <span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;">dvances in
dentistry are awesome!!</span>are bonded to the chewing surfaces of your teeth;
usually the back molars, where food and bacteria pack into the biting
surfaces.<br />
<br />
Sealants are a thinned down
liquid version of the hard white material called composite, like we use for
fillings, with a bonding agent mixed in.
That makes them strong and durable.
This painted on liquid fills into the depressions and grooves on the
biting surface of teeth, forming a protective shield over the enamel of each
treated tooth. The procedure is quick,
with no discomfort associated with it.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
First, each tooth is washed and primed with an etching
solution for a few seconds. The sealant
material is then painted over all the biting surfaces of the tooth and hardened
in place with a curing light<span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;">econd. The sealant material is then painted over all</span>
that activates and finalizes the hardening process. The whole process only takes a few minutes
per tooth.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Typically, children six years and older who have catches in
the grooves of their teeth should have sealants. However, not all children need sealants. Many children have flat, smooth strong enamel
that will never develop a cavity. It is
the nooks and crannies in the enamel, that catch bacteria and sugars, that lead
to cavities. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sealants will protect children’s teeth through the cavity
prone years of six-eighteen. I have even
seen sealants last on patients’ teeth well into their thirties.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Furthermore, in our office, we will place sealants in adults
when we find a catch in the enamel that our cavity detecting laser (known as
the Diagnodent) indicates is not through the enamel. In the event it does penetrate the enamel,
the tooth would need a filling. Advances in dentistry are awesome!!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A fee is charged for each tooth treated with a sealant. A
portion of this fee is usually paid by dental insurance. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-59526149469993086062013-06-05T10:49:00.000-07:002015-01-11T10:11:16.360-08:00SEDATION DENTISTRYFor many, even the thought of having their teeth cleaned makes their entire body tense with fear. They would rather endure the agony of a toothache than step foot in a dentist's office. A lot of people are so phobic about going to the dentist that they prefer not to have any treatment until it's too late. Three words are the answer: ORAL SEDATION DENTISTRY. For people who avoid dentists like the plague, oral sedation dentistry may take away some of their anxiety. Sedation can be used for everything from invasive procedures to a simple tooth cleaning. How it's used depends on the severity of the fear.<br />
<br />
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It's sometimes referred to as "sleep dentistry," although that's not entirely accurate. Patients are usually awake.<br />
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One type of sedation used in dentistry is called inhaled minimal sedation. You breathe nitrous oxide, otherwise known as laughing gas, combined with oxygen through a mask that's placed over your nose. This gas gives you an incredibly relaxed, enjoyable feeling. Your anxiety is totally released. Your dentist can control the amount of sedation you receive, and the gas wears off quickly once your procedure is over. This is the only form of sedation where you may be able to drive yourself home after the procedure. Another type of sedation is called oral sedation. Depending on the dose given, oral sedation can range from minimal to moderate. For minimal sedation, you take a pill. Typically, the pill is Halcion, which is a member of the same drug family as Valium, and it's usually taken about an hour before the procedure. The pill will make you drowsy, although you'll still be awake. A larger dose may be given to become groggy enough to actually fall asleep during the procedure. Patients usually can, though, be awakened with a gentle shake. There are no intravenous tubes or needles, just a pill. Total relaxation. If my patient knows they will toss and turn all night just thinking about their appointment, I will prescribe an extra pill at bedtime so they will have a great night's sleep.<br />
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The best part is you will have little memory of the entire experience, as the sedative pill has an amnesic property. I promise you can be relaxed and confident in a dental chair. The power of advanced dentistry is AMAZING!!!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2965139311782111607.post-14998700802789522762013-05-29T12:34:00.000-07:002015-01-11T10:17:09.912-08:00DENTAL IMPLANTS 101<div class="MsoNormal">
The top reasons patients in my practice opt
for dental implants are: to replace one
or more teeth, to provide support for a partial denture, to increase stability
of full upper or lower denture, to enhance chewing comfort, to increase
confidence while smiling, talking or eating, to improve their overall
psychological health, and to improve their overall appearance. All great reasons, right?<br />
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Dental implants are typically always successful. Their success is related to the dentist’s
skill, quality and quantity of the bone available at the site of the
implantation, and the patient’s oral hygiene.
The average success rate is around 95%. <o:p></o:p></div>
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One of the most important factors that determine implant
success is the achievement and maintenance of implant stability. Other contributing factors to the success of
dental implant placement, as with most surgical procedures, include the
patient’s overall general health and compliance with post-surgical care. Because a dental implant functions like a
real tooth, they are much more natural than you would likely expect. Each tooth in the mouth has a specific
duty. Losing just one tooth can
seriously alter your bite and chewing ability.
When teeth are lost, the bone supporting these teeth melts away, which
causes a shortening of the height of the face as time goes on. Dentures do not solve any of these problems
because they are removable.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Furthermore, since an implant is made out of a titanium alloy, it can't decay like a natural tooth. NO MORE FILLINGS!!! Many of you will say amen to that feature. Also, implants don't contain any nerves, so there is not cold, hot or sweet sensitivity. EVER!!! All great benefits of this outstanding procedure. The placement of the implant takes no more than an hour and is really non-traumatic. Many of the dental "cowards" in our office have found this procedure to be no more than having a filling done. The advancements in dentistry have been nothing less than awesome. One of the best reasons for going ahead with dental implants is because they are permanent, while dentures can obviously be taken out. So, not only do dental implants help improve your smile, they also help maintain the overall tone and muscles in your face, and help prevent your remaining teeth from shifting our of place.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05978939451689404179noreply@blogger.com1