DeLand Smiles

A Heart to Heart

2012-02-14T06:47:00.000-08:00

This time of year, many people are giving their hearts to someone else—no, there’s not an organ donor convention in town, but the symbolism of unconditional love is in the air. Emotions are heightened with each chocolate savored, each flower received & each jewelry box opened. We prepare our hearts for one day out of the year, but is our heart ready for the other 364 days?

Relationships aside, the heart is a pretty amazing organ. It sustains our life, all while keeping constant rhythm. To many, this is taken for granted and goes unnoticed, but to those with heart disease or a heart defect, they are fully aware of its lifeline of importance.

This week honors many holidays that revolve around the heart… Valentine’s Day, Women’s Heart Day, World Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Day & Have a Heart Day—this one is of particular importance because it focuses on being more aware of your food choices.

We know that heart disease claims more lives than most--On average, one American dies of heart disease every 35 seconds! So, let’s consider 5 heart-healthy tips you can implement immediately to decrease your risk of heart disease & ensure your heart is ready for another year.

Tip #1: Floss Daily – The bacterial that causes plaque in your heart arteries is the same bacteria that causes plaque around your teeth. Flossing breaks up the bacterial colonies so they don’t multiply as fast & helps to decrease the inflammation in both your gums & your heart.

Tip #2: See Your Dentist – Regular dental visits (at least twice a year) provide you with an ability to catch things early. The visits not only include cleanings that use special instruments to decrease bacteria, but exams for oral cancer, and screenings for both tooth & gum health-- to help prevent tooth loss. (Studies have shown that people who keep their teeth live an average of 7-10yrs longer).

Tip #3: Create Good Eating Habits – “You are what you eat” truly applies. If you eat foods that are mostly healthy, then you will be mostly healthy…and this rule applies to anything you consume. (And No, if you eat a lot of sugar, it doesn’t make you sweeter!) Talk to your doctor about revising your eating habits and create a plan that best suites you.

Tip #4: Exercise – Organs are muscles, and the heart is no exception. Like muscles, the only way it becomes stronger is via exercise. Remember - everything in moderation and nothing without consulting your doctor first. If a sports activity is of interest, consult your dental provider to see what type of mouthguard would be best. Mouthguards not only protect teeth from injury, but can now be made to improve your strength & performance as well.

Tip #5: Rest – For our organs to grow & function properly, we must obtain an adequate amount of rest. For most, this amount is quantified as ~8hrs each day (ideally at night). Rest should not only come in a physical form, but emotional & spiritual as well. To renew ourselves as a whole, it is recommended we sleep for our physical well-being, relax for our emotional well-being & renew our spirit with a meditational, motivational, or devotional activity.

So don’t wait …implement the 5 heart-healthy tips above and let the next 364 days be a journey of love…for yourself..

Not a Tool of the Trade

2012-01-24T14:12:00.000-08:00

This week provides us with a couple of interesting days…Beer Can Appreciation Day & Peanut Brittle Day. Over the years, we have dealt with many teeth issues involving both beer cans & peanut brittle—both of which cause similar teeth problems, but since today is actually Beer Can Appreciation Day, we thought we would take the opportunity to discuss some of these teeth issues.

Beer Can Appreciation day began in 1935 to celebrate the day the 1^st beer was sold in a can. Beer can collectors from all over the world use this day to show off their assortment of beer cans. Beer can collectors must also be beer enthusiasts because these cans are not unopened. In order to preserve the integrity of the can, the beer collector carefully opens the can from the bottom, empties the contents (…into his/her mouth presumably), then keeps the can. For those of you that are not beer can collectors, and are a little less cautious when opening your beer, we offer a bit of caution …don’t use your teeth!

For some reason, people think of their teeth as tools! Some of our patients have used their teeth as bottle openers, scissors, flashlight holders, ice picks…and the list goes on. All it takes is one faulty move to break or damage a tooth, both of which bring about a great deal of pain and expense. A good rule of thumb is this—if it’s not food or drink, it doesn’t belong in your mouth (with the exception of floss & a toothbrush, of course).

So if you are a beer enthusiast, go find a great can of beer. If you are a beer can collector, show off your collection. Just remember, your teeth are only tools when chewing—food that is.

EAT THIS WITH CAUTION

2012-01-19T13:14:00.000-08:00

We’re a little over half way through the first month of the year, meaning most people are well into their new years resolution(s). Many have resolved to make lifestyle changes, most of which include diet.

I recently ran across a few articles about ways to “snack” healthier in the New Year. Items such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, etc, but there was one snack listed that appeared on all of the “healthy snack” lists…popcorn.

Now, don’t get me wrong…popcorn is a great snack food. It possesses many good qualities such as dense calories, protein, vitamins & minerals. These nutrients help to build bone, muscle, tissue & and, of course, teeth.

Teeth are composed chiefly of calcium and phosphorous. Popcorn supplies as much calcium as beef, potatoes & tomatoes and even more calcium than fresh liver! It is also ahead of eggs, beef & codfish when it comes to the amount of phosphorous. So as you can see, popcorn is very nutrient-rich & beneficial, but it also poses a serious health risk to your teeth.

There are three main issues that popcorn presents to dental professionals (& your teeth): 1) Lactic acid, 2) Old Maids, & 3) Husks.

Popcorn consists of carbohydrates and sugars, which combine w/ oral bacteria to result in lactic acid. When any acid is present on the teeth for any amount of time, it begins to erode the enamel, creating a pathway for cavities. It is important to brush your teeth within 10 minutes of eating any carb to lessen the damages of acid. If you can’t brush, swish with water to help dilute the acid.

We are all familiar with “old maids”—the unpopped kernels that fall to the bottom of the popcorn bowl. It only takes one bite to know you’ve hit one! Not only can these unpopped kernels cause a crack to form in a tooth, but they are great aids at worsening cracks that have already formed. These cracks can lead to much pain, extensive dental work & sometimes nerve damage. So make sure to pay attention to what you are eating…especially toward the bottom of the bowl!

The last issue involves popcorn husks. The husk is made of a hard cellulose fiber that doesn’t break down by itself over time & tends to get caught between the gum & back teeth. If left alone, the area becomes irritated and an infection is likely to form, known as a “popcorn abscess”. Flossing can usually dislodge the husk, but it is recommended you see a dental professional if irritation continues.

Popcorn is a healthy snack that can be thoroughly enjoyed & incorporated into a healthier lifestyle, as long as you resolve to eat it with great caution and practice good dental hygiene.

It's "Cigarettes are Hazardous to Your Health Day!"

2012-01-11T13:20:00.000-08:00

Chemicals in Cigarettes: What They Are and How They Harm Us

By Terry Martin, About.com Guide

[It's Cigarettes are Hazardous to your Health Day! Believe it or not, there is actually a day to remind us how harmful cigarettes are to our health as a smoker or a non-smoker. Terry Martin, from About.com Guide, wrote a great article about this very topic that we would like to share:]

Most smokers don't think about the chemicals in cigarettes. They think about how cigarettes help them cope with the stress of daily life, calm them down when angry, or help them to relax at the end of a long day.

The truth of the matter is that smoking does the opposite of just about everything we give it credit for. When the chemicals in cigarettes are inhaled, they put the body into a state of physical stress by sending literally thousands of poisons, toxic metals and carcinogens coursing through the bloodstream with every puff taken. And those chemicals affect everything from blood pressure and pulse rate to the health of our organs and immune system.

While researchers are still working to uncover all of the hazards cigarettes present to human life, we do know that air tainted with cigarette smoke is dangerous for anyone who breathes it -- smoker or not.

Let's take a closer look at some of the harmful chemicals in cigarettes and how they affect our health.

Chemicals in Cigarettes: Carcinogens

A carcinogen is defined as any substance that can cause or aggravate cancer. Approximately 60 of the chemicals in cigarettes are known to cause cancer.

TSNAs

Tobacco-specific N-nitrosamines (TSNAs) are known to be some of the most potent carcinogens present in smokeless tobacco, snuff and tobacco smoke.

Benzene
Benzene can be found in pesticides and gasoline. It is present in high levels in cigarette smoke and accounts for half of all human exposure to this hazardous chemical.

Pesticides
Pesticides are used on our lawns and gardens, and inhaled into our lungs via cigarette smoke.

Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a chemical used to preserve dead bodies, and is responsible for some of the nose, throat and eye irritation smokers experience when breathing in cigarette smoke.

Chemicals in Cigarettes: Toxic Metals

Toxic / heavy metals are metals and metal compounds that have the potential to harm our health when absorbed or inhaled. In very small amounts, some of these metals support life, but when taken in large amounts, can become toxic.

Arsenic
Commonly used in rat poison, arsenic finds its way into cigarette smoke through some of the pesticides that are used in tobacco farming.

Cadmium
Cadmium is a toxic heavy metal that is used in batteries. Smokers typically have twice as much cadmium in their bodies as nonsmokers.

Chemicals in Cigarettes: Radioactive Toxic Metals

There are a couple of toxic metals in cigarette smoke that carry an extra punch of danger for anyone breathing it in: they are radioactive.

Radioactive Cigarette Smoke
Lead-210 (Pb-210) and polonium-210 (Po-210) are poisonous, radioactive heavy metals that research has shown to be present in cigarette smoke.

Chemicals in Cigarettes: Poisons

Poison is defined as any substance that, when introduced to a living organism, causes severe physical distress or death. Science has discovered approximately 200 poisonous gases in cigarette smoke.

Ammonia
Ammonia compounds are commonly used in cleaning products and fertilizers. Ammonia is also used to boost the impact of nicotine in manufactured cigarettes.

Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is present in car exhaust and is lethal in very large amounts. Cigarette smoke can contain high levels of carbon monoxide.

Hydrogen Cyanide
Hydrogen cyanide was used to kill people in the gas chambers in Nazi Germany during World War II. It can be found in cigarette smoke.

Nicotine
Nicotine is a poison used in pesticides and is the addictive element in cigarettes.

A Word About Secondhand Smoke

Also known as environmental tobacco smoke, secondhand smoke is a term used to describe cigarette smoke that comes from two sources: Smoke that is exhaled by the smoker (mainstream smoke) and smoke produced by a smouldering cigarette (sidestream smoke). Secondhand smoke is known to contain at least 250 toxic chemicals, including 50 cancer-causing chemicals. According to the U.S. Surgeon General, there is no risk-free level of exposure to secondhand smoke. That means if you can smell cigarette smoke in the air, it could be harming your health.

If you smoke...

There is no time like the present to stop the madness that cigarette smoking is. You'll be rewarded with benefits beyond what you can probably imagine and they'll start to occur faster than you think. Within 20 minutes of your last cigarette, your body will begin to heal and improvements to your mental and physical health will continue to grow with time invested in smoking cessation.

It is never too late to quit smoking!

Why The Heck Do You Need To Know That?

2011-10-27T08:11:00.000-07:00

When you come in for your dental visit, you may notice that we do a lot more than examine your teeth & gums. One of the most important parts of your visit is when we ask you questions about your general health. But many people have said to us:

"What does that have to do with my dental check up?"
The answer -- a lot!

More and more research is being published linking dental health to overall health, and at DeLand Smiles, we are concerned about both!

A recent study by Columbia University concluded that "Gum disease is an early complication of diabetes." It continued to say, "70% of adults see a dentist at least once per year"-- this is a perfect opportunity to screen for diabetes and other diseases. According to a recent article in The British Dental Journal, it works the other way around too, as gum disease can be a contributing factor in heart disease, oral cancer, and other illnesses.

Are you taking any medications, either prescription or over-the-counter? Many of these can lead to dry mouth, gum inflammation, and other dental problems. And it's even more complicated for women, as hormonal changes, pregnancy, and oral contraceptives can cause many changes in dental health. (Isn't everything more complicated for women?)

So the good news is, unlike a visit to your physician - you get to keep your clothes on and won't be poked and prodded anywhere other than your mouth! But as you can see, it is extremely important that we know about your total physical health and any medications you are taking. Not only can we save your teeth -- we may actually save your life!

APPLE -- King of Technology or King of Fruit?

2011-10-12T11:37:00.000-07:00

Due to the unfortunate passing of Steve Jobs, the word “apple” has made its way into mainstream conversations. We have crowned Apple the King of Technology due to its numerous inventions that has changed the way we interact with the world and they continue to push the envelope of form & function, much like the area of dentistry. I don’t know about you, but when I was a kid, the words, “Apple” and “Blackberry” simply referred to fruits.

October is recognized as National Dental Hygiene Month, so let’s talk dental hygiene for a minute. You know to brush, you know to floss, but did you know there is a particular food you can use to your advantage when it comes to dental hygiene?…The apple.

Apples are known as Nature’s Toothbrush because of their fibers. These fibers act as mini toothbrushes when chewed, which helps kill bacteria in the mouth & reduce the risk of cavities. Apples are also high in water content, which helps to dilute the effects of their sugar & helps to stimulate the flow of saliva. In addition to water & fiber, apples contain acid that helps to clean & brighten your smile—but you must remember to rinse with water or an antibacterial mouth rinse after eating an apple so the acid & sugar is neutralized & doesn’t harm your teeth. Because apples are crunchy, they also help to naturally toughen up your gums.

You just read how apples effect your teeth on the outside, so now let’s talk about how they are effected on the inside. Believe it or not, apples are a good source of both calcium & phosphorus. Approximately 99% of calcium in the human body is held in the bones & teeth and is the mineral most likely to be deficient in the average diet. The bones store extra calcium, which the body can extract and use when too little calcium is consumed. The calcium housed in your teeth tends to stay there, but as your jawbone gives up its supply of calcium stores, your jaw becomes weak, your teeth get loose and gaps begin to form between the gums & teeth where bacteria hide & multiply-- causing infections, inflammation & bleeding. Amazingly enough, the first signs of osteoporosis are often found by the dentist.

Phosphorus is the 2^nd most abundant mineral in the body & about 80% is housed in the bones & teeth. This mineral adds rigidity to bones & teeth and plays an important role in stopping the progression of cavities.

Will an apple a day keep the doctor and dentist away? No, but it will certainly help to.

The King of Technology has provided us with life-changing technology, but the apple superfruit has continued to provide us with life-enhancing benefits since the beginning of time-- which is why I crown it, The King of Fruits!

Saturated Fat Linked to Gum Disease

2011-09-07T07:56:00.000-07:00

For years, doctors have informed us about the risks of a diet rich in saturated fats, but until recently, those risks did not include gum disease. The Journal of Dental Research recently published a study, conducted by a team of Japanese researchers. The study concluded that a high intake of saturated fatty acids (SFA) is associated with nearly double the rate of gum disease compared with a lower SFA intake, particularly in non-smokers.

So where do saturated fats come from & how do they effect gum disease? Foods that contain a high proportion of saturated fats are cream, cheese, meat fats, milk fat, butter, lard, chocolate, prepared foods (i.e. pastries) & certain oils. These fats are solid at room temperature & raise bad (LDL) cholesterol levels. According to the authors of the study, “Saturated fatty acids produce an inflammatory response. Hyperinflammation is now recognized as one of the key underlying etiologic factors in periodontal (gum) disease.”

If you read the above list & see many of your favorite foods, you are not alone. Fats are an essential part of your body & are needed for proper function, but never in excess. To ensure you don’t incur any unnecessary health problems, including gum disease, it is important to read the labels on your food products & avoid or limit the products that are high in saturated fats (some of which are mentioned above) – Saturated fat should never exceed 10% of calories.

Unfortunately, gum disease is not something that can be brushed away, but diet is a controllable contributing factor to gum disease & overall health. So, limiting the intake of saturated fats will not only benefit your gums, but your entire body as well.

New Dental Whitening App Released

2011-03-29T16:10:00.000-07:00

New Dental App Released

Apple released a new app last week, called Instant Teeth Whitener, available for iPhone, iPod Touch & iPad devices. Created by SmileRank Technologies, LLC, this application claims to be the world’s fastest and most natural way to see what you would look like with whiter teeth.

The application uses photographic technology to detect a person’s smile & allows you to use a slider bar to increase the level of whiteness, in a matter of seconds. It allows you to compare the before picture with the after picture side-by-side, save the enhanced image & even share it via Facebook or email.

Yes, photo technology apps can be lots of fun, but why not pursue the real deal? If you only care about how you look in photos, then purchase the app & stop here…but if your image beyond pictures is of interest, then let’s continue and pursue the options.

In today’s day & age, teeth whitening procedures are fairly common, and as long as they are not abused, they can provide a range of results. There are 3 main types of teeth whitening procedures on the market today & we will order them according to effectiveness & long-term investment, starting with the least effective & least investment..

1) Over-the-counter: These products come in an assortment of slimy strips to generic trays.

a. Advantage:

· Lowest cost.

· Fairly safe to use for most adults & teenagers

b. Disadvantage:

· Product strength is not as strong

· Can do damage to teeth if product directions are abused.

2) Custom Trays: This product can only be provided by a dental professional. After a complete examination by a dentist to ensure only healthy teeth are present (if teeth are unhealthy, whitening products can cause damage and/or pain to occur during wear), impressions are made. An appliance for the upper teeth, and one for the lower teeth are then made. These trays closely fit to the teeth, ensuring the whitening product will remain on the teeth for the recommended amount of time.

a. Advantage:

· Better results due to custom fit of trays

· Greater product strength means less wear time (~3mins)

· Appliance can be kept for years

b. Disadvantage

· More expensive than over-the-counter products

· Product strength may cause sensitivity

3) In-Office Whitening: This procedure begins by painting a strong whitening material on the teeth, & in conjunction with a special light, jump starts the whitening process in ~1hr. Most dental offices also provide custom trays for you to leave with.

a. Advantage:

· Best results due to jump start

· Instant gratification

b. Disadvantage:

· Most expensive

· Product strength may cause sensitivity

If you like gadgets & are interested in whitening your teeth, download the app to see what your possible results would be. If you are serious about whitening your teeth, contact your dental professional to discuss your best whitening option(s). Options today go beyond the 3 types of whitening procedures mentioned above, so contact a professional today.

The 10 Most Common Causes of Bad Breath & How To Eliminate Them

2011-03-03T10:01:00.000-08:00

As we discussed in the previous blog, the main cause of bad breath is bacteria. So what if your oral hygiene is impeccable? Could there be other causes of bad breath? Let’s continue the discussion by reviewing at the Top 10 Most Common Causes of Bad Breath.

Gum Disease (aka Periodontal Disease)

Without going into lengthy detail, gum disease is basically a disease that affects your gums and teeth that, if left untreated, can cause your teeth to become loose or fall out. Gum disease is caused by bacteria that sticks to your teeth (plaque) and releases acids and toxins that damage your teeth and gums. This bacteria feeds on left-over food particles on/around your teeth and gums, resulting in the release of VSC’s (volatile sulfuric compounds). These VSC’s comprise the “bad” in bad breath. The bacteria multiplies at an exponential rate so that brushing and flossing can no longer reduce or eliminate the millions of bacteria at a fast enough rate. As the bacteria continues to multiply, the crevice becomes so deep that even toothbrush bristles cannot reach to clean them out. If caught early enough, periodontal disease can be kept at bay by your dental hygienist, if seen on a regular basis… And most patients experience a decrease in bad breath with the decrease in oral bacteria.

Nasal Problems

People with nasal problems are more prone to bad breath because the bacteria breakdown proteins in food particles, and in certain circumstances, the protein in mucus. The breakdown of mucus proteins produces a VSC (volatile sulfuric compound) that produces a bad smell. People with post-nasal drip have a collection of mucus on the back of their throat and on their tonsils—both of which have many nooks and crannies. Because it is hard to clean these places, the bacteria continue to breakdown the mucus proteins and continue to produce the VSC’s causing bad breath.

Dirty Tongue

Many dental offices provide a tongue cleaner/scraper with the supplies that are provided to you at your cleaning appointments. Tongue cleaners can also be found on toothbrushes and in the toothbrush aisle of your local pharmacy; however, many people don’t really know what to do with them. JUST SCRAPE! Yep, that’s it! When you use this special tool, you are scraping any left-over food particles and bacteria off the surface of your tongue. Your tongue is a great hiding place for bacteria and small food particles because of its grooves and crevices, thus a great playground for VSC production if left unscraped. Using your toothbrush bristles to brush your tongue will also have the same effect.

Prescription Medication

All prescription medications have side effects. One of the most common side effects is a dry mouth (xerostomia). Dry mouth occurs when you do not produce enough saliva to keep your oral tissues (gums, tongue, etc) moist. This often feels, and is referred to as, “cotton mouth.” Saliva is the main proponent for bacteria reduction in your mouth. Saliva helps plaque not stick to your teeth and washes away other bacteria and food particles everytime you swallow. A person with a dry mouth does not produce enough saliva to wash anything away, so bacteria rapidly multiplies and sticks to your teeth, collects in your nooks and crannies, and excretes many VSC’s that stay in your mouth.

Tooth Decay

The words, “tooth decay”, basically mean cavities in your teeth. This can be big cavities leading to crowns, root canals or extractions, or it can be small cavities leading to fillings. Cavities are caused by bacteria feeding off left-over food particles or sugars in your mouth causing acid to form and eat away at your teeth. Cavities are an infection of the tooth because of the high levels of bacteria eating your teeth causing them to breakdown. The tooth is very porous beyond the outer layer of enamel. So once the bacteria break through the hard part of the tooth (enamel), it begins to eat away at the softer part of the tooth. This leaves behind rotting tooth particles eaten by the bacteria in addition to food traps. Cavities often form in places that you miss when brushing, thus leaving food particles to rot and bacteria to multiply resulting in an overload of VSC’s.

Food We Eat

As you learned earlier, VSC’s are basically waste products from the bacteria in our mouth after digesting the proteins in the foods we eat. Some foods we eat already smell a certain way before they even enter our mouths (i.e. fish, cheese, onions, etc). These foods carry the smell with them during digestion and the smell is excreted throughout our body on a cellular level, which is why it takes a couple of days for us to exfoliate these smells. Most people don’t brush and floss immediately after eating a meal either, which seems to compound the issue. Even if they do, it is virtually impossible to completely rid our mouth of small food particles; however, we can brush and floss to minimize the amount so as to decrease the amount of VSC’s produced, thus decreasing bad breath. Bacteria, mostly anaerobic, will always live inside our mouth—but we need to make sure we aren’t voluntarily feeding them.

Smoking

This section doesn’t need much explanation. Apart from smoking being carcinogenic and staining to your teeth, it also makes your breath smell bad. When someone smokes, it dries out the mouth and causes you to produce less saliva…and as we discussed earlier, a dry mouth leads to bad breath due to the increased growth of bacteria due to the lack of saliva washing the bacteria and other food away. Tar and nicotine also tend to build-up on the teeth and cheeks (or any other hideaway) due to the lack of saliva flow. Smoking also exacerbates nasal problems and gum disease, both of which were discussed earlier.

Stomach Problems

Most stomach problems are caused by bacteria being absorbed into your body and excreted through your breath. The most common is acid reflux disease where stomach acid works its way up from the stomach into your throat and the odor is then excreted in your breath. (It is best to see a medical professional if you are experiencing any type of stomach problem). Stomach acid, whether it be from bulimia, acid reflux, or something else, also causes tooth enamel to erode, leading to increased cavity formation.

Mouth Breathing

Mouth breathing can be a difficult habit to change because it is almost an auto response to your body being dehydrated. When the body is the least bit dehydrated, the nasal passages are one of the first to feel the effects. When the nasal passages dehydrate, they become more sensitive, causing your body to react via the only other way it can still inflate your lungs – through your mouth. Upon breathing solely through your mouth, your mouth begins to dry out even more causing a decrease in saliva flow (as discussed earlier). The saliva that is produced is thicker, thus making it a less effective lubricant for your teeth and certainly less effective in washing away any bacteria. Needless to say, as you mouth breathe, the bacteria continue to multiply at high rates while excreting the foul smelling VSC’s.

Dentures / Partials

The same bacteria and debris that collect on natural teeth and gums is also collected on and/or under dentures/partials. The same bacteria produce the same VSC’s. This bacteria is collected on a person’s tongue, cheeks and underneath the dental appliance. Since the appliance sits against the gums, it is a great place for bacteria and food particles to hide, causing significant bacterial reproduction. Most people experience a decrease in bad breath after cleaning their tongue in addition to cleaning their appliance thoroughly after each meal. (An ill-fitting appliance will cause a collection of much debris in addition to damage to the tissues, so it is best to see a dental professional if your appliance is causing problems.)

How Can I Prevent / Eliminate Bad Breath?

See your dental professional on a regular basis

Have a dental hygienist clean your teeth every three - six months
Make sure you are seen by your dentist regularly
Tell your dental office each medication you are taking

See your medical professional on a regular basis

Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing a dry mouth due to medications or if you are experiencing stomach problems
See your doctor if nasal problems are not eliminated by over-the-counter medicines

Decrease the intake of food/drinks that cause water loss & increase dehydration (i.e. alcohol, coffee)
Consume more water to keep your body hydrated throughout the night
Clean any dental appliance after each meal
Eliminate/reduce smoking
Brush/floss after each meal
Use a tongue cleaner or brush your tongue daily

So as you can see, bad breath can be prevented. .. But, please remember, if you are having a chronic problem with bad breath, please seek professional dental and/or medical help.

Take the Sniff Test

2011-02-14T08:00:00.001-08:00

It’s Valentine’s Day. The day millions of people around the world put forth an effort to become more kissable & pay closer attention to their breath. Mouthwashes will be swished, gum will be chewed—and for some, it will work…but for others, they will be masking one, if not many, underlying problems. To find out which category you fall into, do a Sniff Test.

A Sniff Test is something you can perform on your own, in the privacy of your own home. All you have to do is floss your teeth, then sniff your floss. Yes, I said, Sniff Your Floss! If your floss doesn’t have an odor, then you fall into the healthy category of people who brush & floss daily, reducing oral bacteria. This category of people can use supplemental, over-the-counter breath freshening items more effectively in their oral hygiene regimen & can mostly likely, expect kissable, fresh breath. If your floss has an odor, you fall into the unhealthy category of people & it is important that you continue reading.

The main cause of bad breath is bacteria. We have thousands of bacteria living in our mouth that are both good & bad. The job of bacteria is to help neutralize pH & foster a healthy environment by breaking down (eating) anything that doesn’t belong. Bacteria feed on left-over food particles on/around your teeth, gums & tongue…and, like people, what goes in, must come out…resulting in the release of volatile sulfuric compounds (VSC’s). VSC’s are not only smelly (like passing gas), but are also acidic and toxic, causing damage to your teeth and gums.

For those who brush, floss & clean their tongue on a daily basis, they are removing left-over food particles & bacteria. Therefore, they are minimizing the number of bacteria that produce smelly VSC’s that cause bad breath. If brushing, flossing & cleaning the tongue is not done on a daily basis, bacteria begin to multiply at an exponential rate, causing bad breath to get worse & irreversible damage to your teeth & gums. At a certain point, a toothbrush & floss can no longer reach the places bacteria is hiding & you must seek help from a dental professional.

For now, understand that the easiest way to eliminate bad breath is to reduce the amount of oral bacteria by brushing, flossing & cleaning your tongue on a daily basis. If bad breath continues, contact a medical or dental professional, as other problems may be the cause.

If you are looking for fresh breath this Valentine’s Day, you should start with a Sniff Test. The greatest gift is the gift of good health…and remember, good health begins with good oral hygiene (daily brushing, flossing & tongue cleaning.) What’s a better Valentine’s Day present than that?

(Next week we will discuss the 10 leading causes of bad breath & how to eliminate them, so stay tuned…)

21st Century Energy Crisis Affects Teeth

2011-01-31T15:22:00.001-08:00

As many of you are aware, Starbucks rolled out their new 31oz “Trenta” sized cup a few weeks ago, available only for iced coffee, iced tea & lemonade drinks. For Starbucks groupies, the announcement was a godsend, but it left many wondering how much is too much? Convenience stores provide cups of larger sizes for their iced beverages & no one bats an eye, so why is Starbucks in the hot seat?

There are two common threads of concern in a beverage this size: caffeine & sugar—and both are contributors to tooth decay.

Caffeine is a drug that stimulates the central nervous system, alleviating fatigue & increasing wakefulness. According to Stephen Cherniske in his book, Caffeine Blues, the drug begins its effects by initiating uncontrolled neuron firing in the brain. The excess neuron activity triggers the pituitary gland to secrete a hormone that tells the adrenal glands to produce adrenalin, the source of our “fight or flight” response. Once the high wears off, you experience fatigue once again, and long for another “high”. By continuing to supply the “high” with “hits” of caffeine, the roller-coaster effect is continued, leaving your body in a constant state of alert, called “caffeinism”.

Over a period of time, caffeinism pushes the adrenal glands to the max, causing adrenal exhaustion. Thus, it begins to take more and more caffeine to make up for less and less adrenalin production, which is why, over a period of time, it takes more coffee to get the same result.

A normal cup of coffee is considered to be 6-8oz, meaning the Trenta offers 4-5 cups of coffee in one serving. According to the Mayo Clinic, 4+ cups of coffee per day is considered heavy daily caffeine use, and can result in one or more of the following symptoms: Insomnia, nervousness, restlessness, irritability, nausea or other GI problems, fast/irregular heartbeat, and muscle tremors.

Sugar, on the other hand, is also a strong contributor to adrenal exhaustion. There is a viscious cycle that occurs with a sweetened beverage: Sugar stimulates & weakens the adrenals, which creates fatigue. Then we reach for another caffeine “hit” to continue the “high”, which further depletes the adrenal glands and results in fatigue. Most then respond by drinking more caffeine with sugar…and the cycle continues.

In addition to its contribution to adrenal exhaustion, sugar is a concern related to increased obesity in America, or around the world for that matter. When it comes to beverages, most people order the sweetened varieties of both the iced coffees, iced teas and iced lemonades, increasing their caloric intake with each increase in cup size. [For those who are thinking that caffeine increases metabolism, that is correct; however, the Trenta may pack extra caffeine, but not enough to burn off its potential extra 600 calories.]

As far as teeth are concerned, there are a few areas of concern regarding both coffee & sugar. Coffee is an acidic substance that changes the pH in the mouth, creating an acidic environment. As the pH becomes more acidic, Calcium & Phosphate can be pulled from tooth enamel, weakening the tooth structure. And as you know, weakened tooth structure results in increased cavity formation.

Caffeine, the drug found in coffee, tea, etc, is also a diuretic that results in dehydration & decreased saliva flow. Saliva flow is essential to, not only maintaining a balanced oral pH, but also helps to wash away bacteria. An environment with a decrease in saliva flow creates a breeding ground for bacteria that eat away at both your gums & teeth.

Now add sugar to the mix…Acidic substances, such as coffee, tea, lemonade, weaken tooth enamel, and the caffeine reduces saliva flow, so sugar hits the teeth & basically dives right into the tooth!

Think about how long it takes to drink a 31oz Trenta sized beverage—916 milliliters. The human stomach, on average, has a 900 milliliter capacity, so it would be hard to literally gulp this size drink, and most people would take their time consuming it. Think about how long your mouth would be in an acidic environment, sucking the Calcium from your teeth. Think about how long sugar would be eating away at the weakened teeth surfaces. Think about how quickly the amount of stain would build-up on your teeth by bathing them in coffee or tea for such a long period of time.

I know, I know, everything in moderation…but is Starbucks pushing the limits & contributing to the already existent energy crisis or creating a new one? Only time will tell, I suppose.

Maybe one day Starbucks will offer an IV drip that would not only save time in line, but would bypass the mouth altogether & save your teeth as well. It would take the term “docking station” to a whole new level.

Beans, Beans Good for Your ... Teeth?

2011-01-06T13:29:00.000-08:00

Happy Bean Day! Yes, there is actually a day dedicated to beans, thanks to Gregor Johann Mendel. According to FoodReference.com, “Mendel was an Austrian botanist whose work was the foundation of the science of genetics. Working mainly with garden peas (some 28,000 plants over 7 years), he discovered what was to become known as the laws of heredity.” Mendel’s work (the basis of the study was the bean) was so important to the study of genetics that National Bean Day was said to have commemorated in his honor.

Let’s talk beans for a minute. Beans (legumes) are high in fiber & protein and are a great source of many nutrient-rich vitamins & minerals, such as Calcium, Zinc, Iron, Selenium, Vitamin B, C and Folate, to name a few. They also may help to prevent certain types of cancer. [There is some preliminary research that suggests that certain legumes may help to prevent colon cancer. Another study found an association between legume ingestion and decreased likelihood of cancer of the esophagus, oral cavity, and larynx.]

So how do beans affect your oral health? Although healthy teeth & gums require a balanced diet, there are specific vitamins & minerals that are vital to healthy teeth & gums: Calcium, Iron, & Vitamins A, B, C and D (all of which are in beans, I may add). Let’s take a look at how each of these can affect your oral health…

Calcium: Teeth & jaw bones are made mostly of calcium. When combined with phosphorous, it forms calcium phosphate, the dense, hard material of the teeth & bones. Without enough calcium in your diet, you are at risk for gum disease & tooth decay (cavities). If your jawbone is not healthy, the chances are your whole mouth is not healthy.

Iron: Iron deficiency can cause your tongue to become inflamed, and sores can form inside your mouth.

Vitamin A: Vitamin A has a lot to do with the formation of healthy teeth, gums & skin. It aids in the formation and maintenance of mucous membranes and soft tissues, and has antioxidant properties. These antioxidants help to destroy free radicals that cause your body to decay.

Vitamin B3 (niacin): A lack of Vitamin B3 can cause bad breath and canker sores in the mouth.

Vitamins B2 & B12 (riboflavin): Mouth sores can also develop when you don’t consume enough B2 & B12.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that promotes healthy teeth & gums and assists in the absorption of iron. A deficiency will lead to bleeding gums and loose teeth.

Vitamin D: Vitamin D is created in the body after exposure to sunshine. It helps your body absorb calcium—necessary to develop and maintain healthy teeth & bones. A diet low in Vitamin D will cause burning mouth syndrome. Symptoms include a burning mouth sensation, a metallic or bitter taste in the mouth, and dry mouth.

The following is a summary statement published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition on the benefits of legumes:

“…Dry beans supply protein, complex carbohydrate, fiber and essential vitamins and minerals to the diet, yet are low in fat and sodium and contain no cholesterol. Both protective and therapeutic effects of bean intake have been documented. …Including dry beans in a health-promoting diet is especially important in meeting the major dietary recommendations to reduce risk for chronic diseases such as coronary heart disease, diabetes mellitus, obesity and cancer.”

As you can see, beans are not only good for your heart. The nutrient-rich contents they house are good for your entire body. So in honor of National Bean Day, I think I’ll have a bean burrito, lentil soup, or maybe some hummus…oh the possibilities!

DeLand Dentist puts a New Spin on an Old Christmas Favorite

2010-12-23T10:43:00.000-08:00

‘Twas the day before Christmas & all through DeLand,

Not a single tooth was hurting, not even my drilling hand.

With models all trimmed, and lab cases ready,

We patiently waited for mail carrier Betty.

Into the office she walked, with a man by her side.

We had not seen him before, maybe he was her ride.

She greeted us nicely, then said with a pause,

“This is my friend Santa…Santa Clause.”

“Mr. Clause has a toothache & needs help right away.

Can you help him,” she said. “Let’s get started, don’t delay.”

The first step was blood pressure…Santa’s was high.

“I didn’t take my medicine today,” he said with a sigh.

He sat in the chair & opened his mouth wide.

We couldn’t believe what we found inside.

A broken tooth, cavities and gum problems aplenty.

Good thing I was masked…oh, boy how stenchy!

A cleaning, some fillings & crowns done same-day…

But we knew that Santa must be on his way.

“One thing I must tell you,” Dr. Mathias said with a smile,

“Because I know we probably won’t see you for awhile.”

“Eating candy & cookies & sugar is alright,

As long as you brush & floss after, and don’t eat them all night.

And don’t’ forget that fruits, veggies and exercise are good for you.

Your heart will be happy & your blood pressure will go down, too.”

Santa gave him a hug and said, “Doc, you’re alright!”

“I’ll do everything you said, and I’ll begin tonight.”

He told us goodbye & said, “Betty, Let’s go!

We’ve got packages to deliver…Ho, Ho, Ho!”

We sat & reflected of the days events,

And couldn’t believe how our day went.

We’re headed home now with a new year in sight…

Merry Christmas to all & to all a goodnight!

All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth

2010-12-15T07:08:00.000-08:00

"All I Want for Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth", according to Wikipedia, is a novelty Christmas song written in 1944 by Donald Yetter Gardner while teaching music at public schools in Smithtown, New York. He asked his second grade class what they wanted for Christmas, and noticed that almost all of the students had at least one front tooth missing as they answered in a lisp. Gardner wrote the song in 30 minutes. In a 1995 interview, Gardner said, "I was amazed at the way that silly little song was picked up by the whole country." The song was published in 1948 after an employee of Witmark music company heard Gardner sing it at a music teachers conference.

A few weeks ago, when little Faye Armstrong of Waterloo, Liverpool was born, she actually received two front teeth! Faye is considered a rarity because she was born with two front teeth…and has two more appearing!

Teeth begin to develop before birth, along with other organs in your body; however, they don’t usually erupt until ~6mos to one year of age. The first teeth to erupt are normally the top and bottom 4 front teeth, and by age 3, approximately 20 baby teeth are present. These baby teeth will begin to fall out & make way for larger adult teeth around the age of 5yrs.

But baby Faye’s case is a little different. She represents 1 in ~3000 babies who have natal / neonatal teeth. Natal teeth are teeth that are present at the time of birth. Neonatal teeth are teeth that erupt during the fist 30 days after birth. Natal teeth usually develop in the lower front gum area and are attached to the gums by soft tissue. Most are mobile and do not have adequate root formation, but can cause irritation to the infant’s tongue or a nursing mother. Most natal teeth are removed shortly after birth, especially if they are mobile, to prevent aspiration of the tooth.

No one really knows for sure why these teeth erupt so early, but several sources suggest a possible hereditary connection. For instance, the Tlinget Indians in Alaska show a prevalence of 9% of their newborns having natal or neonatal teeth, 62% of them had affected relatives. Other environmental factors, such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), used in pesticides, coolants, carbonless copy paper, etc, have all been sited as other possible sources, and are associated with other symptoms as well. Some also indicate correlations between natal teeth and various syndromes.

Regardless of the cause, there can be complications with the tooth enamel on these teeth, causing the teeth to turn a yellow-brown color or cavity formation to begin. So, if your child has natal or neonatal teeth, it is imperative that you seek professional advice from your dentist to ensure proper tooth development can occur in the future.

So in the spirit of the holidays, you can continue singing Mr. Gardner’s lyrics…that is, unless you are an expectant mother due in the month of December.

Tooth Transplant Cured Blindness

2010-11-30T15:16:00.000-08:00

We all know the saying, “An eye for an eye & A tooth for a tooth”, but what about “A tooth for an eye!” If you ask Kay Thornton, “A tooth for an eye” isn’t figurative, but quite literal. Kay was diagnosed with a disease called Stevens-Johnson Syndrome 31 years ago & the symptoms led to blindness.

Advancements in medical treatments gave Kay hope in seeing again one day…a day that came recently. Kay sought medical advice from her eye doctor, who found her to be a good candidate for a relatively new type of transplant procedure to cure her blindness. But little did she know that the person used to facilitate her cure would be her own dentist.

Her eye doctor explained that she would need something special to hold the optical lens in her eye…her very own tooth! Kay’s canine tooth was removed by her dentist, then it was converted into a special holder for her optical lens by drilling holes in it. After several hours of surgery, the tooth was inserted into her eyeball. And voila…sight once again.

The mouth, teeth and gums were once thought of as a separate entity from the rest of the body by the general population, but that’s not the case anymore. More and more studies are finding that good oral health can prevent many diseases, such as heart disease, stroke & diabetes. So taking the time to see your dentist regularly, in addition to brushing & flossing daily, is not only important, but a necessity to maintain good oral health.

Fortunately, Kay had a healthy, stable tooth that was required for the procedure. If you are unsure of the health or stability of your own teeth, see your dentist…it could be an eye-opening experience.

Sink Your Teeth Into This...

2010-11-18T06:23:00.000-08:00

Last week, a man named Conrad Feasel was arrested for biting his 3yr old daughter on the arm—2yrs ago. It was said that the bite was intended to teach his daughter a lesson, but investigators say it was a hard enough bite that the girl needed medical treatment. And why did it take 2yrs for the arrest?—Officials say it was due to a backlog at the police department, and the father had since moved.

As cooky as this story may seem, it actually reminded me of my own childhood-- I remember my younger sister going through a ‘biting phase’. Only separated by two years, I recall one evening I upset her, causing her to bite an arm-- just like Mr. Feasel; however, in this case, she didn’t bite my arm…she bit her own…then blamed it on me!!! Being the middle child I am, I pled my case to my mother explaining how I wouldn’t do such a thing, how my little sister was such a liar, and of course, how I get blamed for everything. The jury came back GUILTY. So I was sent to bed as my sister sat with a smirk on her face.

Fortunately, the story doesn’t end there. It wasn’t long before my mother entered my bedroom with an apology, accompanied by my sister...now wearing a frown. Apparently my futile attempt at pleading my case actually worked. I found out that my mother began a little “discovery” of her own and began looking at teeth marks. Fortunately, these incriminating marks left a deep enough wound for the evidence to remain in existence long enough for the truth to be revealed.

Most people have never measured the amount of force used when biting, so the following numbers may seem a little surreal. Adults with their natural teeth can bite with ~200 lbs of force. Young children, with their primary teeth, can bite with ~50 lbs of force or less. As a child’s permanent teeth erupt, their biting force increases. These biting forces allow us to not only chew our food, but to chew our food well. Those that do not have a full complement of teeth (denture wearers) can only bite with ~50 lbs of force, and those that have been wearing dentures for more than 15yrs can only bite with ~6 lbs of force.

Basically, the more teeth you have, the stronger you can bite, the more you can chew your food, and the longer you will live—(denture wearers have a 10yr shorter life span).
The circle of life takes us from childhood to adulthood, then back to childhood again as our body wears out & ages…but your teeth only wear out because of poor habits or trauma. They can stay in adulthood with proper care and at least 2 annual visits to your dentist.

So the next time you want to bite your child to teach them a lesson (and if you haven’t done it already, I know it’s crossed your mind), remember the power of your adult teeth…and the power of the law.

Flu Increases Risk of Heart Attack

2010-11-04T07:55:00.001-07:00

Recent studies, conducted by Dr. Andrew C. Hayward of University College London, reveal a correlation between influenza and heart attack. Dr. Hayward led a total of 39 studies between 1932 and 2008, and what he found was pretty astonishing…35-50% of cases in which people who had the flu died, the cause of death wasn’t from influenza…it was from a heart attack or other cardiovascular related events!

We all know that the flu causes inflammation throughout our body, which is why the symptoms are usually fatigue, fever, and other unsightly emissions. This inflammation is theorized to alter the plaque in your arteries, thus triggering clot formations that lead to heart attacks. And did you know that the bacteria that creates the plaque on your teeth is the same bacteria that is found in the plaque in your arteries?

Dr. Hayward also found that people who were vaccinated against the flu were at a significantly lower risk for cardiac related death and other studies have shown that a decrease in oral plaque is indicative of a decrease in arterial plaque as well.

So what can you do to prevent the flu from affecting your heart? 1) See your dentist to ensure your oral plaque is maintained, 2) See your doctor for a flu vaccine if you have a history of heart disease or ailments, are over the age of 65, or have a compromised immune system.

Don’t get heartsick over the flu… See your dentist & your doctor today!

Oddity Removed from Man's Ear

2010-10-25T11:38:00.000-07:00

In recent history, we heard much about the 33 Chilean miners and their 66 day ordeal trapped inside the earth…from heroic measures by their team leader to an outed affair upon rescue, we certainly know more about these miners than they ever dreamed. Many have been offered movie deals, book deals, and many other tell-all deals for their stories from beneath the earth’s surface. These miners will have to get used to the limelight, seeing they’ve now adjusted to the sunlight.

So much focus was put on the Chilean miners that one miner in particular almost went unnoticed. This miner, named Stephen Hirst, was not a Chilean miner, but a 47yr old ex-miner that had spent the last 33yrs living w/ excruciating pain in his ear & constant ear infections. Mr. Hirst had been to several doctors over the 33yrs, but no one was able to diagnose his problem or help ease the pain. Mr. Hirst continued to seek help & finally found it from the Doctors at the Royal Hallamshire Hospital in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, England. They were determined to find the problem and offer a solution….and they did.

“The nurse put a suction tube in my ear and cleaned it, then (tried) a microscope probe,” Hirst said. “Finally, she used some tweezers and got it out.” So what was “it”? A TOOTH! To this day, no one knows why it was not found sooner, but Mr. Hirst says his ear pain is now gone for the first time since he was a teenager and theorizes that the tooth became lodged during one of his childhood accidents.

Although now deaf in one ear, due to years of constant ear infections & pain, Mr. Hirst is grateful he listened to the still-small voice of perseverance.

Are There Bugs in Your Grill?

2010-10-04T09:25:00.000-07:00

Are There Bugs in Your Grill?

As most Floridians know, it is Love Bug season. These creatures don't sting like bees, or buzz like mosquitos, but gently swarm their way to death by air conditioning or death by car. There are a few urban legends as to how love bugs came into existence, but the fact of the matter is--these gentle creatures do a lot of damage--to your vehicle.

Someone recently stated a love bug has the life expectancy of 6 days....and they must know it. I was driving down the road at 55mph and noticed a pair of love bugs on my driver's window. The funny thing was that only one of them was hanging on for dear life as the other fluttered in the wind--at 55mph. And yes, this lasted for a significant amount of time before they were whipped through the air to their probable death of a car grill. Poor bug, poor car!

The "bug juice" from any insect can be significant if left untreated, but the quantity of "bug juice" during love bug season combined with the hot sun of Florida can do a lot of paint damage in a short amount of time--if not cleaned immediately. "Bug juice" produces acid, which eats through the paint, eventually causing other problems, such as holes in your vehicle.

Your car grill isn't the only grill that has "bug juice". Your mouth actually has thousands of bacteria swarming in it everyday. These bacteria live on particles of food on your teeth and gums & in the crevices of your tongue & cheeks. These bacteria, like love bug juice, produce acid that eats through the enamel and bone of your teeth, causing cavities, gum disease, bone loss, bad breath, and many other problems. So like your vehicle, your mouth must also be cleaned immediately, by brushing & flossing, to decrease the acid-producing bacteria & prevent any significant damage.

Love bugs are seasonal, but oral bacteria are a constant presence that must be kept under control by brushing after meals, flossing at least once a day & seeing your dentist at least twice a year. We may not have control over our external environment, but a toothbrush and floss can certainly help us to control our internal one.

What's on Your Toothbrush?

2010-09-16T10:01:00.000-07:00

Three things come to mind when I hear the word "toothbrush"--1) Clean teeth, 2) Dentist and 3) Bathroom bacteria. A toothbrush is great because it brushes away the bacteria on your teeth & in your mouth, but having an unclean toothbrush causes you to actually brushyour teeth WITH bacteria.

Studies have shown that several micro-organisms (tiny organisms that include bacteria, fungi, viruses, etc.) remain on toothbrushes. Some of them include:

Mutans Streptococcus: the main bacteria that causes cavities
Beta-Hemolytic Streptococcus: the main bacteria that causes strep throat
Candida Albicans: the main fungus that causes thrush in babies
Coliform: the main bacteria found in the bathroom (we'll call this "toilet-bowl" bacteria, if you know what I mean)
Herpes Simplex Virus: the virus that causes cold sores

Becuase these micro-organisms can cause multiple viruses and/or infections, and can also spread to others upon contact, it is extremely important to change your toothbrush frequently--probably more frequently than you think.

A toothbrush should be changed every 3 months, according to the American Dental Association. They should also be changed when the bristles begin to show wear (see picture below) and as soon as possible after a sickness, or cold, to prevent re-infection or infection of someone else.

Because bacteria and micro-organisms love a warm, moist environment, NEVER store your toothbrush in a container. It should be stored in a well-ventilated environment at least 6ft from a toilet (studies have shown that aerosols from a toilet flush can migrate up to 6ft). And anyone with children should label or clearly identify each child's toothbrush so that sharing is avoided.

Other interesting facts include:

Parainfluenza virus can survive on toothbrush bristles for over 24 hours (Dr. Kim Loos - Clinical instructor University of Pacific School of Dentistry)

A New Zealand study found that toothbrush sharing was a risk factor for transmitting the Hepatitis B virus between children (New Zealand Medical Journal)

Within only 48 hours, even a new toothbrush becomes infected with potentially disease-producing bacteria, viruses, and fungi, some of which can remain alive and multiply on a toothbrush for hours and even days. (Dr. John Rippin - Head of Oral Pathology at the University of Birmingham {UK})

So don't wait for another toothbrush from your dentist. Better health can be achieved easily just by changing your toothbrush more frequently...and better yet, it may even save you a trip to the doctor!

The Right to Wear White

2010-09-07T15:41:00.000-07:00

Labor Day has come and gone...and so has the wearing of white for some people. In years past, the wearing of white was considered poor etiquette. It began with white bags & pumps and progressed into other clothing garments until fashion designers began incorporating a "winter white" into their fall/winter collections. Although the reason is not clear, most assume the ritual began due to white shoes not mixing with messy winter weather and slim dry-cleaning budgets of the past. In either case, the color white continues to still have a stigma associated with it post-Labor Day. But there is one place on the body that white is encouraged to be worn all year 'round---the teeth!

No one likes to have dingy whites (proven by the Clorox campaign for years), so why would you have dingy white teeth? There are many products and services today that have the ability to whiten or substantially whiten your teeth, ranging from in-office whitening procedures to simply eating more fruits and vegetables. Whatever your budget, whiter teeth can still be in your future.

In-office teeth whitening procedures are done at the dental office, using a high strength whitening agent and, most often, are accompanied by custom fit trays so you can continue whitening at home. This option tends to deliver the greatest whitening results with the greatest investment. Over-the-counter products are not custom fit and tend to be a bit messier. Since these products can be bought over-the-counter, and don't require supervision by a dentist, the concentration of whitening agent is less. The whitening results are often less than in-office whitening, but so is the investment. The least expensive option, eating more fruits and vegetables, actually comes with health benefits, too. Eating fruits with seeds, such as strawberries, or biting into crunchy vegetables, such as carrots or celery, actually help to remove stains from your teeth. The hard vegetables and seeds act as abrasives (like toothpaste) for your teeth and fortify your body at the same time.

So Labor Day or not, white is always in fashion...you just have to know where to wear it.

Early Detection of Oral Cancer in One Easy Step

2010-09-01T12:32:00.000-07:00

Last night, Michael Douglas announced to America that he had stage 4 throat cancer, diagnosed only 3 weeks ago. Symptoms? Yes-- pain, dry throat, hoarse voice, ear pain--all which he told to many doctors, many months ago. Only after a biopsy did they determine it was stage 4 throat cancer, attributing it to previous cigarette & alcohol use. He is now undergoing radiation & chemo treatments 5 days per week for the walnut-sized tumor located under his tongue.

Pathologies in the mouth & throat tend to grow & spread fairly quickly due to the constant reproduction of cells in the oral cavity. Most aren't even visible until they are already a stage 3 or stage 4 (the worst). Even worse, the 5 year survival rate for oral cancer is only 50%.

So why is this important? Every hour of every day in America, someone dies of oral cancer. As dental providers, we now have ways to screen for early detection of oral cancer--early enough to catch at a stage 1 (the earliest) or 2. One of these screening tools is called Velscope. It is "a technology platform based on the direct visualization of human tissue fluorescence and the changes in fluorescence that occur when abnormal tissue is present"--meaning it uses a special light filter that enables us to see beneath the tissue inside your mouth, allowing us to see any abnormalities beneath the surface (see below). Being able to see beneath the suface provides us the ability to diagnose pathologies earlier, which means a greater success rate & survival rate for the patient. If an abnormality is found via Velscope, the dentist should recommend a follow-up evaluation of the area 2 weeks later. If the area is still diagnosed abnormal via Velscope, a biopsy of the area should be recommended to determine or rule out the pathology.

No apparent lesion

Irregular, dark area visible with Velscope

Biopsy-confirmed: Carcinoma in Situ (CIS)

Velscope uses a special light only--no bad tasting rinses, no brushing away of gum tissue--just a light. The dentist should be trained to diagnose abnormalities through the special filter & the entire oral cavity examination with the Velscope should take less than 2 minutes.

Did Michael Douglas see his dentist on a regular basis? I don't know. Did he have an oral cancer screening regularly? I don't know. What we do know is this...Early diagnosis is key to preventing & saving lives. So ask your dentist for a Velscope oral cancer screening at least once a year.

2010-08-18T14:37:00.001-07:00

Unbelievable Item on Craiglist

Roger Miller’s King of the Road came to mind after I read an article about a Pennsylvania woman who put an ad on Craigslist for some used dentures. “Trailers for sale or rent, rooms to let..fifty cent”…but dentures? Really?

The story detailed how the elderly woman was on a fixed income, had medical issues & had patched her old set to the point of no repair. The ad was placed in hopes of using the used pair until a new set could be purchased. This story may sound unconventional, but unrealistic?—no.

The power of the internet is at our fingertips daily. From simple research, to purchases of all sizes, the internet seems to put everything “at arms length”….even dentistry. There are searches for providers, searches for education of dental services, even sites to bid on treatment! But remember…even though the power is at our fingertips, we must first be good stewards of the power.

Searching for a dental provider that fits you is almost like shopping for clothes. They have to fit your personality, make you feel comfortable and have the ability to create a final product you would wear. This can sometimes be a long & tedious search, so I’ve created an article titled, 10 Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Dentist. Answering these questions will help guide you in the direction of the dental provider that best fits you and your goals.

Unfortunately, the elderly lady did not have my article. No one responded to the Craigslist denture ad & the woman continues her search. The power of the internet reminds us that commodities can be purchased online by anyone. But a well-educated consumer knows that dentistry is not a commodity, but a value-driven service that is personally customized to each individual….so click here & do your research!

The Skinny on Mini's

2010-07-27T12:49:00.000-07:00

As new technological advancements grow bigger & bigger, the results tend to be thinner & thinner. Microwaves, iPods, TVs & even hamburges have all maintained their original functions, but have shrunk quite a bit in size.

Electronics & food aren't the only advancements making waves. The dental industry has also changed with the advancement of implants--and now mini implants. Although mini dental implants (MDI's) have been around for a couple of decades, it is only in recent years they have made their mark mainstream.

Dental implants are used to replace a missing tooth/teeth or to secure a loose denture. Mini dental implants are basically a smaller version of a traditional implant, having the same components for function (screw & abutment), just in smaller form. The screw is what anchors to the bone & the abutment is placed on top of the screw to connect it to a crown, in the case of replacing a missing tooth. If a MDI is used to secure a loose denture, chances are, there will be at least 2-4 mini implants recommended. The implant screw is still anchored into the bone, but in a denture case, a special attachment is used to connect the screw to the denture. This special attachment allows the denture to snap into place for security.

Becasue MDI's are smaller and take less time to place, they are approximately half the cost of a traditional implant. And best of all, most patients have the crown & implant ,or the implants & denture placed in the same day with little to no discomfort.

In addition to providing replacement for missing teeth or security for loose dentures, both MDI's & traditional dental implants provide a way to help keep your bone. Over time, if a tooth is lost & no implant has been placed, the bone shrinks and begins to cause other problems.

So if you have a missing tooth/teeth or have loose or ill-fitting dentures, contact your dentist to see if you are a candidate for mini dental implants. Your frustrations aren't shrinking, but your bone is... so call today!

2010-07-19T09:10:00.000-07:00

Dentistry - Key Identifier in Cancer Treatment Success

Picture any visit to the doctor resulting in a converstation about the need for cancer treatment. A myriad of questions begin to form, with the primary one asking, "what do I do now?" If this ever happens to you in the future, there are two key healthcare professionals that must immediately become your best friends...your oncologist & your dentist. Your oncologist, for obvious reasons, and your dentist to help prevent serious problems.

Chemotherapy and radiation treatments are used to kill cancer cells. But these treatments also harm and/or kill normal cells as well. Some of the side effects cause serious problems in the mouth--some serious enough to delay or stop treatment. Some of these side effects include: Dry mouth, Increase in cavities, Loss of taste, Sore gums, Increased infections, Jaw stiffness & bone changes. Because the side effects often happen when a person's mouth is not healthy, it is recommended that you see a dental professional at least 2 weeks prior to undergoing any form of radiation or chemotherapy treatment.

If you don't have a dentist, ask your oncologist for a recommendation. If you do have a dentist, contact the office to schedule a quick exam and consultation. At this visit, the dentist will check your teeth, take any necessary xrays, and show you how to care for your mouth during your treatment. Make sure the dentist can contact your oncologist for questions regarding your cancer treatment. They may also want to confer regarding any dental treatments you may need prior to starting any cancer treatment.

One of the keys to cancer treatment success is looking at your mouth on a daily basis, keeping it moist with lots of water, saliva substitutes, or sugarless candies/gum, brushing & flossing daily and contacting your dentist about any mouth problems that may occur during or after cancer treatment.

Regardless of where the cancer is located in the body, your dentist is a key part of your cancer treatment success team.

2010-07-13T15:25:00.001-07:00

A Dish Best Served Cold

Fortunately, I'm not talking about revenge...but I am referencing the coveted all-american treat of ice cream, in honor of National Ice Cream Month! This crazy commemoration was created for us by Ronald Reagan back in 1984--(you just can't beat a president with a great sense of humor....and sweet tooth!) Like many others, I assume he probably topped his favorite flavor with, you guessed it, jelly beans. Apparently jelly beans brought him much intuition & wisdom, for he once said, "You can tell a lot about a fellow's characher by the way he eats jelly beans." (He noticed some would eat only one color, while others would eat many flavors at once.) Well, I am here to tell you that you can also tell a lot about a person's teeth by the way he/she eats jelly beans (and other candy as well).

Ever experience a burning sensation in your gums or in between teeth when eating something sweet like candy? Ever experience pain or sensitivity when eating something cold like ice cream? These symptoms are indicative that there is something unhealthy about the tooth/teeth. Depending upon the severity of the pain or sensitivity, the treatment is usually something small, common & routine, such as a filling. Recognizing these symptoms early and seeing a dental professional for treatment will eliminate the pain/sensitivity, restore the teeth back to health & help ensure you don't have any suddent toothache-style interruptions to your summer. Just remember...teeth that need treatment get worse over time, which means the treatments become bigger..as does the price.

Enjoy the hot summer days with a cold beverage, a popsicle or a cold bowl of ice cream. And if you experience any pain or sensitivity when you do, contact a dental professional. The summer's long from over, so ensure you can enjoy the rest of it with a pain-free healthy mouth.

To BP or not BP?

2010-06-16T08:02:00.000-07:00

As the oil continues to wash closer & closer, encroaching upon the livelihood of surrounding towns, the anticipation of devastation has Gulf Coast cities low on both tourism & optimism. Military response efforts have helped defray some time & expense, helping to streamline the claims process on land & stave off the oil at sea. So how does this relate to dentistry?

Bacteria, like gushing oil, continues to multiply until something stops it or removes it. Small amounts of bacteria can be removed by a toothbrush and can die with the use of a Fluoride mouthrinse; however, small amounts of bacteria quickly multiply into large amounts of bacteria if not stopped or removed on a daily basis. The only way for bacteria to survive is to eat something nutritious—and in the mouth, nutrition comes from healthy teeth & gums.

The livelihood of a tooth is its nerve and bone. The nerve is in the middle of the tooth and it is joined to the bone at the base of the tooth. Bacteria begins eating on the outside of the tooth and migrates toward the most delicious part—the nerve. It has a great blood supply with many nutrients that keep bacteria strong & multiplying. At this point, the bacteria have eaten a hole in the tooth, are sucking the life out of the tooth by eating the nerve, and are working their way to the bone. Like the Gulf Coast communities feel the affects of the oil spill via a decrease in tourism & trade, a person’s livelihood will be affected by pain & swelling.

Dentists to the rescue! Although there is still no cure for the BP gusher, there is a cure for a person in such a condition. A dentist has the skills and tools to remove and kill the bacteria causing the acute problem so your mouth doesn’t become a “BP Situation.” The key is to see your dentist regularly so that gushers don’t continue to erupt all over your mouth.

I don’t know if BP had any foresight into the effects of their actions, but as responsible adults, we know the consequences of our own actions. If a dental professional informs you about a cavity-- in relation to BP, it means the oil is bubbling and if you don’t have it treated, it will become a gusher. If he/she suggests anything larger, (ie crown, root canal, etc), it means you already have a “BP Situation” and there is a system in place to resolve the problem. If you are told there are multiple issues throughout your mouth that need to be addressed…it means you definitely have a “BP Situation” –and in order to resolve the problem, we, as engineers will devise a plan for treatment & you, the patient, will have to join the clean-up crew.

If only BP could make it so easy…

Are Your Teeth On Acid?

2010-05-11T09:57:00.001-07:00

Every morning, children across America hear the words, "Finish your orange juice...Now go brush your teeth!" Orange juice is good for the body, and brushing is good for the teeth, but orange juice (and other acidic beverages) immediately followed by brushing is catestrophic to teeth. Could mom be wrong after all these years?

Enamel Erosion- A number of studies have shown that beverages with a low pH (acidic) have an influence on the softening and erosion of tooth enamel. One of the studies exposed a cow tooth to an acidic soft drink for 5 minutes and reported that the tooth surface--after only 5 minutes--was 31% less hard. The study also reported that the tooth regained only 86% of its strength back after a 24hr period of time.

Dental Abrasion- Another study revealed that brushing teeth immediately after consuming acidic products accelerates enamel erosion. Once the enamel is softened by the acid, it becomes more susceptible to abrasions by toothbrush bristles.

Most people tend to sip their beverages, submersing their teeth for a total time of several minutes. So a recent study chose to immerse teeth at times of 5 seconds, 1 minute or 10 minutes in one of the following four beverages: Coca-Cola, Pepsi One, Diet Mountain Dew or Tropicana Pure Premium Low Acid Orange Juice. Micrographs showed that the appearance of the tooth enamel was altered after only 5 seconds. The altered appearance showed the noticeably softer enamel surface. Brushing with toothpaste induced even greater surface changes and caused some enamel to be brushed away.

So how much time should elapse after drinking acidic beverages before brushing can occur? Well, that has yet to be determined. What we do know is that the plaque around teeth becomes acidic within 2 minutes of drinking a beverage containing sugar and that more than 30 minutes must elapse before normal pH is restored. Until a protocol is determined, I tell my patients to swish with water after drinking an acidic beverage and wait 30 minutes before brushing.

All acidic beverages aren't bad for the body, but most are bad for the teeth if not cared for properly...so don't leave your teeth on acid--Swish, Wait, then Brush!

Does Size Really Matter?

2010-04-28T09:55:00.000-07:00

I remember feeding my nephew shortly after he began eating solid foods. This child loved to play & loved to eat, which in most cases isn't a big deal; however, the quantity of food eaten was out of the ordinary. Like most active little boys, he enjoyed playing so much that eating became somewhat of a chore. In the excitement of wanting to return to playing, he would eat so quickly that the results, sometimes in whole, would show up later in his diaper.

As children, most of us can remember our parents reminding us to chew our food. I even remember my grandmother advising us to chew each bite 32 times. Well, as a child--and even as an adult, 32 times takes forever--even getting to 10 is a stretch. Most often people reference chewing longer for fear of choking, but there's another reason why we must remember to chew our food well.

Our back teeth are made for chewing. Their design and position in the mouth are all indicators for chewing. We have also known for years that digestion begins in the mouth, and not the stomach. For example, before a bite is taken, saliva is produced, which hydrates & prepares the mouth to begin digesting the food. Saliva begins this process because it contains special enzymes. When eating, back teeth come together and a great force is placed on the food, causing the food to start breaking down. The jaw moves, causing a chewing action, and the food is broken down even further. The food is swallowed and progresses into the stomach and then the small intestines, both of which continue breaking down the food into even smaller particles to aid in digestion.

Food is made up of nutrients, minerals, etc. that provide our bodies with energy and nutrition. Once food leaves the mouth, it has a limited amount of time to go from stomach, to intestine, to well, how should I say it?...porcelain. This means that if food is not chewed enough, the stomach doesn't have enough time to break it down and extract all the nutrients inside. So the stomach does what it can in the limited amount of time it has with the food and then the remaining food is sent to the small intestines to take over. Again, there's a limited amount of time in the small intestines before the food remnants are "out the door". In essence, the larger, and less chewed, pieces of food provide less nutrition for the body than the well-chewed, broken-down, smaller versions.

So the next time you prepare to take a bite of food, ask yourself...Does Size Really Matter? I think men and women would both agree that it does--At least in this case.