The Plus Side of a Good Dental Plan!

I found a really good article on Yahoo yesterday that makes a good argument for Dental Plans! Not directly, of course, but if one considers that dentistry is among the most expensive in terms of healthcare, and that there is no regulatory agency that holds dental prices in check, and the insurance companies pay little to nothing and put a cap on your benefits, then a Dental Plan can be beneficial. I don"t mean the recent "in-house" type of plan that some dentists are trying to promote; those will save you very little and if a problem arises...well, where are you going to go? The plan would not be accepted by another facility! No, I'm suggesting a bonafide, BBB accredited discount plan. Do your homework, but at least check it out. You'll find that the savings and a small investment for a membership are worth the effort .
I found that every word of this article rang true based on my own experiences and those of the people I've worked with in the business for 19 years. You can click here for the link, and enjoy!

8 Amazing Dental Facts!

Here are some interesting facts that people don't know.

1. The commonly used practice of putting a cap on toothbrush is actually more detrimental. The moisture entrapped in the cap favors bacterial growth.


2. You are not supposed to brush within 6 feet of a toilet. The airborne particles from the flush can travel up to a distance of 6 feet.


3. 75% of the United States population suffers from some stage of periodontal gum disease.


4. People who tend to drink 3 or more glasses of soda/pop daily have 62% more tooth decay, fillings and tooth loss than others.


5. The first toothbrush with bristles was manufactured in China in 1498. Bristles from hogs, horses and badgers were used. The first commercial toothbrush was made in 1938.


6. Fluoridated toothpastes when ingested habitually by kids can lead to fluoride toxicity.


7. You are supposed to replace your toothbrush after you have an episode of flu, cold or other viral infections. Notorious microbes can implant themselves on the toothbrush bristles leading to re-infection.


8. New born babies do not have tooth decay bacteria. Often, the bacteria are transmitted from mother to baby when she kisses the child or blows in hot food/drink before feeding the baby.

The Controversy over Dental X-rays and the use of Thyroid Shields

There was an episode on Dr. Oz recently that seems to have thrust the issue of radiation exposure and thyroid cancer into the spotlight. Having been in the dental profession for 20 years or so, I've heard many arguments about the effects of x-rays on the body, and not just dental x-rays....mammograms and chest x-rays surround the controversy as well. Many of our members have questioned whether dental x-rays are really necessary. The answer, absolutely, is yes! Now, at such a small dosage ,whether they pose a danger or not is questionable as there have been many studies done over the years and all of them provide a different outcome. An intelligent way to approach this issue is to weigh the evidence; consider that there is a minimal risk, but also consider the very small percentage of people who have contracted thyroid cancer that may be related to radiation from x-rays, then, if you feel you would prefer to minimize your risk, by all means ask for a thyroid shield prior to having your dental x-ray! The bottom line is that your safety and piece of mind should matter. When it comes down to choice, it is never unreasonable to err on the side of caution.
Keep Smiling!

What is Plaque?

Plaque is a complex biological soil that can lead to dental problems like tartar, gum trouble and tooth decay. It's a soft, sticky bacterial coating that is constantly forming on your teeth-every day. When plaque comes into contact with the sugars and starches in the foods you eat, it produces acids that can cause cavities.The best way to avoid problems often associated with plaque is by making regular visits to your dentist. See your dentist at least once every 6 months for a complete checkup and a thorough cleaning.Toothbrushing is the most effective way to remove plaque at home. It is recommended that you brush your teeth after every meal, and especially before you go to bed at night. Also try and replace your toothbrush every 3 or 4 months -using an old or worn toothbrush is less effective. It is also recommended that you use dental floss to remove additional plaque below the gum line and between teeth areas where a brush cannot reach. A pre-brushing rinse might help to loosen and detach plaque for easier removal during brushing.

Dental Jewelry- A New Fad

It's the newest thing in the body art revolution, and it's catching on! You can now purchase small jewels and have them bonded to your teeth to give your smile an extra sparkle! It doesn't come cheap, however! The procedure is simple, the jewels are bonded with the same type of glue that is used to secure braces to your teeth. More and more people are trying it. Here is a link to a website where you can view some pictures and learn a little bit about this fast growing fad. Keep Smiling!

What are Mini Implants?

I've had many people ask me this question and it was always a difficult one for me to try to explain, probably because I didn't have a clear understanding of it myself! While surfing the web this morning, I found a site that explains this procedure perfectly! A Mini Dental Implant is a process by which small posts are installed in the jawbone in order to stabilize dentures or other dental prosthetics. People who have problems wearing their dentures or whose bone structure has deteriorated over a long period of time due to the wearing of dentures are generally good candidates for mini implants.The procedure is less time consuming and less expensive than traditional implants. Many times it can be done in one day! If you wear dentures and are having difficulty securing them or if eating has become difficult and it is affecting your health, check with your dentist to see if mini implants would benefit you! Here is a link to an exceptional article (with illustrations) that explains the mini implant procedure. Keep Smiling!