Don't Waste Your Time Taking Pain Medication Before A Dental Bleaching!

Did you know that taking an over-the-counter pain medication may not help with pain during or after professional dental bleachings?

 "According to a new systematic review published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, patients who took the drugs before having their teeth bleached experienced similar levels of sensitivity as those who did not."

I wish I had known this before but I learned the hard way! The first time I ever had my teeth whitened, I didn't think anything about it, it never crossed my mind that I would experience major tooth sensitivity afterward. This was one of the most painful experiences in my life, I swore that I would never do it again. 

Anyway, a few years later, I was told that they (my dental office) had a new bleaching product that was made for people with sensitive teeth.  I gave it another chance but this time I took Ibuprofen beforehand. Well, my experience was the same, I actually didn't complete the bleaching process and still had major tooth sensitivity.

In my opinion, dental bleachings are not worth the pain associated with it! 

Have you ever experienced major tooth sensitivity after dental bleaching? 

Can Baby Teeth Identify Possible Mental Disorders?

Did you know your baby teeth can reveal many clues about your childhood? If your answer is no, then you are in for a treat! Baby teeth can expose physical stress such as poor nutrition or disease. The enamel on the tooth is affected causing growth lines inside the tooth. Similar to the rings found inside of a tree! Interestingly, the thicker the growth rings, the more stress the individual has faced in their short life.

Eric C. Dunn, ScD, MPH created a hypothesis to see if the thickness of the neonatal line (NNL) had any effect on whether the infant's mother had higher levels of physiological stress during pregnancy. 

Mr. Dunn and two people from the Psychiatric and Neurodevelopment Genetics Unit conducted a study. This study consisted of mothers filling out a survey. Some of the questions asked were about stressful events during the prenatal period, maternal history of psychological problems, neighborhood quality, and level of social support.

After the mothers completed the survey Mr. Dunn and his team measured and analyzed the NNL on each tooth. 

Interesting findings emerged from this study!

Children who had mothers with depression, psychological problems, and/or anxiety during their pregnancy had thicker NNLs.

With this new information, Mr. Dunn believes "that the NNL and other tooth growth marks could be used in the future to identify children who have been exposed to early life adversity. Then we can connect those kids to interventions. So we can prevent the onset of mental health disorders and do that as early on in the lifespan as we possibly can."

Click here for the full article!

Help Your Child Build Strong, Healthy Teeth!

 Have you ever heard the old wives’ tale that women should expect to lose a tooth with each child?  Well as it turns out, long ago that belief was well rooted in reality! Now, however, this is a proven modern-day myth. Your baby actually gets the calcium he needs from your diet and if your diet does not contain enough calcium, the body will access the mineral from the supply in your bones, not from your teeth. But today, with careful management, most of us should be able to avoid losing our teeth. So what steps can you take to ensure that you keep your teeth in top condition, and what can you do for your child after he is born to keep his teeth healthy?

The following are some important points to remember for you and your child to ensure healthy teeth:

While you are pregnant:

Eat a healthy diet rich in calcium to keep the stores in your body at a healthy level. Dairy products and green leafy vegetables are good sources of calcium.

Brush and floss daily. It is important to keep plaque and tartar at bay. A healthy mouth will lead to a healthier baby!

Ages 0 To 10

STUDIES have shown that if we have tooth decay as babies, then we are more likely to get decay in our permanent teeth. Dental hygiene can and should begin with newborns. Bacteria can be removed by wrapping a piece of gauze around your finger and gently wiping the baby’s gum pads.

Apart from their food-processing function, baby teeth are important as space maintainers so that permanent teeth have a space to grow into. If these teeth are lost early through decay, the space may not be saved, so permanent teeth can drift - a problem more likely to lead to a need for braces later. Consequently, a baby’s sugar intake should be monitored, bearing in mind that even health foods such as milk and fruit contain sugars.

Baby toothbrushes with soft heads should be introduced as soon as teeth come through, along with specially formulated children’s toothpaste. These contain the optimal dose fluoride for youngsters.

Have their teeth cleaned regularly from the age of  2 years.  Regular dental screenings can prevent loss of teeth in early years, and helps get your child in the habit of practicing good dental hygiene.

Nursing Bottle Syndrome - a condition which causes rampant decay in a baby’s teeth - can occur from six months, and constant sweetened drinks are often blamed. Studies have shown that 50% of five and six year old children may have erosion of their front milk teeth - a condition that can cause pain and sensitivity. At around the age of six, the first molar teeth start to appear. These can be sealed with a plastic coating, known as fissure sealant, to prevent decay.

Overall, good hygiene for both mother and baby is essential to healthy teeth. The better their teeth when they are young, the longer they will keep them as adults!! In my line of work, I encounter people almost daily in their 90's who still have their own teeth. In part because of a healthy lifestyle and partly because of amazing technology and advancement in dentistry.

Keep Smiling!

Are You Cleaning Your Electric Toothbrush?

Most people brush their teeth, rinse off the toothbrush, place it back in its holder, and hopefully replace it every 6 months.

Well, an electric toothbrush needs a little more TLC. It's still important to clean the head of the toothbrush after every use and replace it every 4-6 months. But, did you know that cleaning and caring for the electrical base is just as important?

Below are a few steps to keep your electric toothbrush kicking:

• Unplug the base and wipe it with a mild cleanser or bleach solution.
• Dip a cotton swab (q-tip) in the same solution and clean the area where the head attaches and around any buttons.
• If there is excessive gunk build-up, use a toothpick to gently loosen it. 
• Sanitize if possible. Sometimes electric toothbrushes come with a sanitizing machine, use it!
• To ensure the best battery life, use the toothbrush until it dies. Then recharge it, and repeat the process. *keeping the toothbrush constantly plugged in, will eventually ruin the battery*

Fun Trivia Facts About Animal Teeth

 Since we really cant focus on our own teeth right now given that most dentist offices are closed for routine care, I thought it would be fun to re-post this blog about animals. Here are some facts about different animals I collected from various sites on the web. Just a little fun trivia for everyone to read. Enjoy!

• Beavers, Gophers, Rats, Mice and Hamsters teeth grow continuously throughout their lives. They must grind their teeth down to keep them at a reasonable length.
• A dolphin has only one set of teeth to last throughout it's lifetime.
• An Armadillo has 104 teeth.
• A Blue Whale is the largest mammal on earth but it has absolutely no teeth!
• A Cat's jaws cannot move sideways.
• Turtles and Tortoises are toothless.
• Rabbits are born with their permanent teeth.
• African Elephants have only 4 teeth.
• Mosquitoes have 47 teeth. (They drink blood, what's to chew, lol?)
• A snail has thousands of tiny teeth, yet it's mouth is smaller than the head of a pin!

Keep smiling!!!

Healing with Aloe Vera Gel

  We've all heard or have read about the benefits of using Aloe Vera for healing...i.e., scrapes, scratches, burns and ailments such as stomach ulcers, etc. It's not surprising, therefore, that dentists have incorporated its uses into the field of dentistry.

Some dentists have found it useful in their own practices for healing and preventing dry socket following extraction, periodontal disease, mouth sores, canker sores, denture irritation...the list goes on and on!  This miracle plant has many, many uses.  Check with your dentist or at your local health food store for Aloe Vera gel or Aloe Vera toothpaste!
As always, keep smiling!

Possible New Oral Cancer Detection...

Did you know when you have your routine dental examination, your dentist examines your gums, and teeth and also checks for oral cancer?

Typically your dentist will check the inside of your mouth for any mouth sores and palpate the tissue inside the mouth checking for any lumps. Some dentists may even go a step further and check the throat and neck.

However, in the future, there may be a new way to diagnose oral cancer. 

In an article by Dr. Bicuspids Melissa Busch, the University of Birmingham in the U.K. is in the works of developing a lollipop that could aid in diagnosing oral cancer! See the full article below.

"Instead of getting a lollipop for good behavior at a dental appointment, clinicians may hand them out and ask for patients to hand them back so they can be tested for mouth cancer, according to the University of Birmingham in the U.K.

The school will use a smart hydrogel to develop a prototype flavored lollipop that could aid in diagnosing mouth cancer. Cancer Research UK and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) have awarded a three-year 350,000-pound grant ($442,347 U.S.) to fund the research, according to a university press release dated March 21.

"This project is an exciting first step towards an entirely new way to identify mouth cancers earlier," Dr. Iain Foulkes, executive director of research and innovation at Cancer Research UK, said in the press release.

Currently, a mouth cancer diagnosis requires biopsies and nasoendoscopies. However, the procedure is invasive, time-consuming, and requires an endoscopist. In addition to these factors, these tests are unpleasant for patients.

A hydrogel functions like fishing nets. It absorbs lots of water while catching larger molecules like proteins and the "net" can be opened, releasing larger molecules for analysis.

Therefore, to test for cancer, a patient would suck on a lollipop, transferring their saliva to the hydrogel. The proteins caught in the hydrogel lollipop can be blasted with a ultraviolet light, and the liquid can be analyzed for saliva proteins that are indicators of the early stages of mouth cancer, according to the release.

"We're hoping that we can be the first to make a device which is much kinder for diagnosing mouth cancer for patients," Dr.  Ruchi Gupta, associate professor of biosensors at the university, said in the press release."

You Should Never Ignore Dental Pain - Even When You Wear Dentures or Have a Bridge

  I recently heard about someone who went to the dentist with severe pain in the area of her bridge. This pain had been present for a couple years but only when she chewed, so she didn't think much of it. Eventually it got worse and worse until the pain was unbearable, she was sick, her face was swollen and she couldn't eat.

As it turned out, for 2 years the bridge was actually broken. There was decay in a tooth underneath it allowing for trapped food to get in, which led to a major infection. This made her really sick.
After almost 3 hours in the dentist chair and some oral surgery, they finally got her taken care of and had a new bridge on its way to her.

Just because a crown, implant or bridge is not "real" per-say, doesn't mean that it should be ignored! If something goes wrong, it should be treated and maintained just like a real tooth at all times.

If you have questions as to how to properly care for your bridge, be sure to consult with your dentist.

Keep Smiling!

Is it Possible to Regenerate Receding Gums?

The quick answer is no. There are many theories out there that suggest you can repair and regrow gums once they have receded.  You can find almost anything on the internet. Unfortunately, once your gums have pulled back from your teeth, there is no magic that will help to grow them back. What you can do, however, is to see a dentist regularly to have your teeth cleaned in order to prevent further gum loss and loose teeth.  It is never too late for preventive treatment. 

Don't fall for gimmicks and false promises.  So many people do!  If you notice that your gums are receding or if you have redness, swelling and pain in the gums around your teeth or chronic bad breath, see your dentist immediately for treatment to prevent further deterioration.  

Keep Smiling!  

Type 2 Diabetes & Mouthwash

 Do you have type 2 diabetes? If so, check out this article by Dr. Bicuspid's Ava Barros.

"Gargling with mouthwash may hold significant promise in mitigating the incidence of periodontitis, as well as managing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), according to a study published in Scientific Reports.   

Additionally, younger patients and those with higher initial levels of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) experienced notable decreases in their HbA1c and oral bacterial species levels after rinsing with mouthwash, the authors wrote.  

"Patients with T2DM complicated by periodontitis have more red complex species, and poor glycemic control is thought to be associated with increased levels of red complex species in the oral cavity," wrote the authors, led by Dr. Saaya Matayoshi of Osaka University in Japan, (Sci Rep, February 2, 2024, Vol. 14, 2777).  

The research team investigated how using mouthwash affects the levels of certain harmful bacteria known as red complex series, like Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis), Treponema denticola (T. denticola), and Tannerella forsythia (T. forsythia), as well as HbA1c levels in patients with T2DM, the authors wrote.  

A total of 173 patients were first asked to gargle with water for six months followed by six months of gargling with a mouthwash containing chlorhexidine gluconate. During each visit to the clinic, the team collected saliva samples and extracted bacterial DNA to detect the presence of these harmful bacteria using a polymerase chain reaction lab technique. Furthermore, HbA1c levels were measured using a blood sample to understand the impact of mouthwash gargling on blood sugar control, they wrote. 

They found that younger patients or males who gargled with mouthwash experienced a significant decrease in the number of red complex series. Additionally, among younger patients or those with higher initial HbA1c levels, gargling with mouthwash led to a significant reduction in HbA1c levels, they wrote.

The study, however, had limitations. Different patients showed various trends in the change of bacteria and blood sugar control as they gargled with mouthwash potentially due to individual differences, including having other systemic diseases, taking certain medications, and periodontal status, they wrote.

"In summary, T2DM patients can decrease red complex species by gargling with mouthwash two or three times a day, leading to possible improvement in glycemic control, especially in younger patients," Matayoshi et al wrote."

Drinking Coffee May Reduce Risk of Oral Cancer

 t's quite possible! Although this idea is still being researched and is yet to be confirmed, the study appears to be promising. 

A brief on oral cancer:

People who use tobacco or alcohol are naturally at a higher risk of developing oral/pharyngeal or mouth cancer. People who have HPV (human papillomavirus) are also at a high risk as recent studies have shown. Oral cancer is difficult to detect in its early stages due to the fact that the symptoms can easily be mistaken as something else.  Common symptoms include mouth sores that don't seem to heal, or pain that will not go away.

Where coffee comes in:

There have been many studies over the years linking coffee to a reduced risk of mouth cancer.  The study which brings us here today actually began in 1982.  Nearly 1 million people took part, submitting their health and lifestyle information, including their tea and coffee intake.  When the study began, all participants were cancer free.  After nearly 30 years of monitoring and follow up, the results of the study were astonishing.  Out of the near million people who participated, 868 people died from oral/pharyngeal or mouth cancer.  When the relation to these deaths with coffee and tea consumption was analyzed, it was found that participants who reported drinking 4 or more cups of caffeinated coffee a day had a 49% reduced risk of death from oral cancer than those who reported drinking less or only having an occasional cup.  Gender, alcohol and tobacco were not a factor.  The link to decaffeinated coffee was insignificant and the link to tea drinkers was non-existent.

What that means now:

While we would all love to believe that coffee is the cure for oral cancer, unfortunately, more research needs to be done.  There are many factors that would need to be considered before they can determine coffee as a guaranteed treatment.  There are also many other types of cancers, this study only focused on one.  So, for now, myself and my fellow coffee drinkers can simply feel a little bit better about our consumption.  As more research and studies unfold, however, I imagine we can expect to see a breakthrough on this idea soon.

Until then, Cheers to coffee!

Dental Check-Ups!

How often do you see your dentist for a routine dental check-up? Most people go every six months, but did you know that your dental health will determine when you will be asked to come back for another check-up?

For me personally, it's best that I get a dental check-up and cleaning every 4 months!

Here are some frequent questions about check-ups!

Why do we need dental check-ups?

Dental check-ups are very important to our dental health, the dentist will do an examination of your mouth and detect any occurring problems you might have. Leaving any problems untreated will cause major problems in the future.

What does a dental check-up include?

During the visit, your dentist will:

1. Examine your mouth (teeth and gums).
2. Ask questions about your dental health, and see if you are having any problems.
3. Give you advice for a healthy mouth.
4. Tell you when they want you back.

What about dental treatments?

Once you have had your check-up, you may receive a treatment plan. A treatment plan is an outline of what procedures you may need to do. *Remember this is not set in stone, this is to show you what should be done to prevent any further problems that could occur.*

Digital X-rays Offer Many Advantages

 Technology is such a wonderful thing!  We've definitely come a long way in the advancement of diagnostics and diagnostic tools in both the medical field and the dental field.  Some may ask what the benefit is of digital x-rays vs. traditional x-rays.  Well, in terms of preventive care,  the difference is huge!  The following are some points of interest regarding digital x-ray machines.

     ~ The images produced by a digital machine are a much higher quality.
     ~ The images can be adjusted so that the doctor can see imperfections in the teeth early in            

         the diagnostic process.
     ~ There is significantly less radiation with a digital x-ray, which limits your exposure.
     ~ There is no chemical developer involved .
     ~  The images can be transferred from one office to another via email, saving time for the                             doctor and the patient.

On the flip side,  the only real negative aspect to this is the cost of the machine, which falls on the dentist. A digital x-ray machine is very expensive.  Consequently, many practitioners do not have them available as yet.  More and more, however,  it is becoming a regular fixture in dental offices throughout the US.  Ask your dentist if digital x-rays are part of their routine.  It's a better option all the way around!

Keep Smiling!!!

Teledentistry - How Does It Work?

 Teledentistry is considered to be the dental form of telemedicine.

Teledentistry:  

• ·         Offers live streaming for face-to-face visits with a dentist or practitioner
• ·         Provides patients a secure patient portal to access data you share
• ·         Offers secure messaging so they can start clinical conversations
• ·         Offers live video consultations for visual evaluations and assessments
• ·         Ability to pre-screen for dental visits and emergencies
• ·         Check-ins
• ·         Treatment planning
• ·         Remote Triage

And many more options… 

It can also be used to transfer documents and information and consult with other providers in the industry.  It’s HIPAA compliant, mobile friendly and secure.  Who knew? 

Keep Smiling!

Prepping Children For The Dentist

Do you have a young child who needs to visit the dentist? Are you worried about how they will handle the visit?

Preparation is the best method when it comes to going to the dentist.

Here are a few tips on preparing your child for their first trip:

• Choose a dentist wisely - Seek out a dentist that will fit your child's needs. You may want to consider a pedodontist (pediatric dentist) these dentists specialize in children's dentistry and usually their offices are very inviting to children such as they have games while waiting, a theme throughout the office. etc.
• Let them observe - Take your child to one of your dental appointments and let them watch. The best observation is a dental cleaning!
• Sunglasses - This will help keep the bright out of their eyes and allow them to keep their eyes open to reduce anxiety.
• Trust the staff - This is not the first time they have worked with children, they will have tricks up their sleeve to help make the experience go smoothly. 

Always remember that the office staff wants you to have a great experience!

Before you Consider a Dental Insurance Plan...Read This!

 I read a really good article recently 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, a Dental Plan can be extremely beneficial. Dental insurance companies pay little to nothing and put a cap on your benefits.

Now, when I say Dental Plan, I don't mean the ever growing "in-house" type of plan that some dentists are trying to promote; those will save you very little money overall 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.

Dental plans go far beyond what insurance companies do in terms of savings.  More procedures are covered, there is no limit to benefits, coverage is immediate and there is no waiting 12 months for a large procedure...Seriously, why would one NOT consider a dental plan? Do your homework, but at least check it out. You'll find that the savings and a small investment for a membership are well worth the effort, especially now, in an uncertain market.  Everyone needs dental work at some point.  Be prepared with a good dental plan.

** Additionally, Medicare Advantage Dental Plans are NOT what they are cracked up to be.  Sure, $4000 looks good on the brochure, but trust me, you are not likely to get anywhere near that amount in coverage.

Don't wait for a toothache!!

Natural Ways To Heal Canker Sores

We all know how uncomfortable and painful canker sores can be, right? I'm sure you have tried Orajel and Canker X to help heal the pain but have you tried any natural remedies? 

Lists below are some natural remedies to help heal those painful sores:

• Alum Powder (kitchen spice) - Place a small amount of alum directly on the sore, allow it to sit for 1 minute then spit it out. *Do not swallow*.
• Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) - Soak a cotton ball in ACV and apply it to the sore.
• Vitamin E - Open a vitamin E casual and apply directly on the sore.
• Aloe Vera - Put some fresh aloe Vera juice on the sore 3-4 times a day.

Hopefully, with the help of these, you will get some relief from the pain and discomfort.

To help prevent Canker sores you should brush your teeth after every meal and floss twice a day to keep your mouth free of food particles that trigger these painful sores.

If you still end up with a canker sore, use a soft toothbrush such as a perio-toothbrush to prevent irritation while brushing, and avoid toothpaste and mouth rinses that contain sodium lauryl sulfate. 

Tooth Enamel Will Not Regenerate by Using an OTC Product!

There are alot of "snake-oil" treatments out there that claim to be able to regenerate tooth enamel and heal cavities.  Don't fall for it!

Dental enamel, unlike bones, does not regenerate or "heal" once it is damaged. Dental enamel is formed during the original growth of the tooth underneath the gums. While there are many factors that can contribute to the loss of dental enamel, such as poor dental hygiene or certain hereditary conditions, there is good news. Researchers are actively seeking treatments and therapies that could change everything. Of course, proper hygiene and regular visits to your dentist are the best way to combat any kind of dental dilemma, but for dental enamel in particular, there are now certain treatments that can help slow the process of enamel degeneration that can be applied during your regular dental visits as part of your preventative maintenance regimen. 

Keep Smiling!

Post Teeth-Whitening Pain - Is There A Solution?

Have you ever had your teeth professionally whitened? If so, you probably have experienced the post-whitening pain. I know I have and it was not a pleasant experience!

While scrolling the internet, I came across this article by Dr. Bicuspids Meliss Busch.  

"Giving patients ibuprofen plus potassium fluoride prior to in-office bleaching may be effective in reducing tooth sensitivity and pain, according to a study published on January 22 in the Journal of the American Dental Association.

However, using ibuprofen and potassium fluoride separately before tooth whitening was inconclusive, the authors wrote.

“It provides a superior analgesic effect,” wrote the authors, led by Dr. Raniel Peixoto, PhD, an adjunct professor with the department of restorative dentistry at the Federal University of Ceará in Brazil.

Easing the pain

Despite breakthroughs made in the field of teeth whitening, a standard protocol for reducing post-bleaching tooth sensitivity does not exist. It has been established that, when given preemptively, ibuprofen can reduce the inflammatory process generated by free radicals that reach the dental pulp. Desensitizing agent potassium fluoride 2% decreases the amount of peroxide that diffuses through dental tissues by sealing dentinal tubules.

Though teeth whitening sensitivity isn’t completely understood yet, the authors hypothesized that there is a synergistic effect involving the mechanisms of action of ibuprofen and potassium fluoride that may help cut tooth sensitivity.

To explore the analgesic effect of preemptively administered ibuprofen -- either alone or in combination with a 2% potassium fluoride -- on post-bleaching tooth sensitivity, a triple-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial was completed with 15 patients. Researchers used a crossover design for drug administration and a split-mouth design for the desensitizer agent.

Patients were either given ibuprofen and potassium fluoride, ibuprofen and placebo potassium fluoride, placebo ibuprofen plus potassium fluoride, or placebo ibuprofen and potassium fluoride. Tooth sensitivity was measured using the visual analog scale, and data was collected at baseline and after six, 30, and 54 hours, according to the study.

Compared to the placebo group, 400 mg of ibuprofen in addition to 2% potassium fluoride appeared to be more effective in decreasing sensitivity after tooth whitening (p < .05). In the placebo group, the risk of experiencing moderate or severe tooth sensitivity was about four times higher than in patients who were given ibuprofen plus potassium fluoride (relative risk, 4.00; 95% confidence interval, 1.01 to 15.81; p = .025), the authors wrote.

However, preemptively using ibuprofen and potassium fluoride separately were inconclusive. Statistically, their results were like a placebo, they wrote.

More to study

Nevertheless, the study had limitations, including that only one drug and bleaching agent were used at conventional levels, the authors wrote. In the future, new studies with varying drug and bleaching agents, as well as different concentrations, need to be completed, they wrote.

“The synergistic effect of the mechanisms of action of IBU (ibuprofen) and the desensitizer may justify the preemptive use of IBU plus KF2 (potassium fluoride 2%) in reducing levels of sensitivity to tooth bleaching,” Peixoto and colleagues wrote."

Is Your Mouth Always Dry? There is Help For That.

 You might be surprised by how many people suffer daily from a condition known as Xeristomia or Dry Mouth. Dry mouth can be brought on by any number of medical maladies and various prescription drugs. 

Some causes include: 

• Medications such as antihistamines, sedatives and diuretics,  
• Chemotherapy
• Dehydration
• Diabetes
• Poor hygiene and tooth decay
• Autoimmune diseases such as Sjogren's disease, MS and Lupus
• Dry, arid climate

Most sufferers can find little relief from this condition and find themselves constantly drinking more water in hopes of quenching their thirst.

New studies have shown that gums, candies, rinses and sweeteners containing Xylitol offer comfort to those suffering from dry mouth. Xylitol coats the soft tissues of the mouth sealing in moisture and stimulates saliva flow.
A plethora of amazing over-the-counter products are endorsed by dentists for treating dry mouth. Some products worth checking out are Biotene, Oasis and Sensodyne for Dry Mouth.
Be sure to check with your doctor if you have the symptoms of dry mouth.  Make sure you find the cause before you use any OTC treatments! 

As always, Keep Smiling!  

What's In A Smile?

A great smile can help you to look and feel your best. 

A smile radiates beauty, and a dazzling smile has the power to boost your self-confidence and project a picture of health. 

A smile is ageless and it never goes out of style.

The smile has taken center stage as the ultimate symbol of beauty-more than beautiful eyes, great hair, and even more than a sexy body. 

There's a reason why the smile is the universal language. 

If you want to improve your smile and need some dental work to do that, check out Savon Dental Plan to help get you that smile you have always wanted and deserve!

Hate Going to the Dentist? - They Have Their Dislikes Too!

The following is a serious (but humorous) accounting of information I have gathered over the years...believe me, the dentists have horror stories too, they just don't complain as much...to us, that is! Here we go:

1. The number one complaint is: "No Shows". That's right, this is the flip side of us having to wait for an hour past our appointment time. When we don't show for an appointment, it costs them money in the form of what we call "chair time". Not that they don't welcome the break....I once witnessed a dentist who had some free time on his hands dancing up and down the hallway wearing reindeer antlers (made out of plastic gloves) and singing Christmas Carols. And he was very out of tune!

2. They hate it when they've done a treatment plan, recommended a root canal or filling and then the patient doesn't follow the professional advice and a year down the road, oh oh...it's abscessed, and the patient declares an emergency! Know what the dentist is thinking? Something like this: "Lack of planning on your part does not constitute an emergency on my part....." But of course he/she would never tell you that so the office receptionist graciously sets an appointment and the dentist quietly fixes your tooth because that is what he/she was trained for... (and yet we still dread the dentist!)

3. They dread being bitten, kicked and spit at...and I'm not talking about children! There are adults out there who literally cannot control themselves. I swear, someone should publish a book with some of the stories I've been told. It would be a #1 Bestseller.

4. Frivolous complaints to the dental board. My goodness...you would not believe some of the things that are brought up in front of the Board. Some years ago I was given a copy of a complaint filed by an elderly woman against her dentist because during her treatment she was cold and he didn't have a warm blanket in his office to offer her. True story!

5. The proverbial "dental jokester". Seriously, do you know how many times in their career a dentist hears the words "I hate the dentist", or, "that was expensive, am I helping to pay for your Mercedes?". Now, there are a few dentists out there with a sense of humor but....really?

Well there it is...the other side of the coin. In retrospect, the dentist really does get a bad rap. Trained to heal, just like a doctor, and dedicated to the patient, most of them anyway. I guess it's important to consider that Dentists are people too!

Keep Smiling! 

Would You Be a Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

In a way, it's been around for years but in different forms.  Oral Medications,  Laughing gas, even Hypnotism.  But the art of sedation has come a long way in recent years. 

If you are dental phobic, anxious because you have a long complex procedure ahead of you or are having oral surgery, conscious sedation may just be right for you! What if you could have your dental procedures done while "consciously asleep" and wake up with no memory or trauma whatsoever? It sounds too good to be true but it is becoming a safe and efficient way for a dentist to treat severely anxious or phobic patients.
Conscious sedation allows you to relax in the chair while allowing the dentist to complete long or complex procedures without further distressing you. Now, please don't confuse this with general anesthesia, because it isn't! You will still be able to respond to questions and follow instructions. You will typically still be given local anesthesia such as lidocaine, but won't remember the shot. While you are not actually physically asleep through the procedure, you may think that you were because of the mind-erasing effect.
The process is rather simple. A small pill, such as triazolam, is given approximately an hour before the procedure. More medication may be given depending on the patients response to the first pill. Everyone is different. It is advised to ask someone to drive you to and from the appointment.
Now, keep in mind that not every doctor is able to use this form of sedation. It requires special training and certification.  This includes Cardiac Life Support training to help ensure the safety of the patient in an emergency.
It is becoming a more popular way to treat anxious and fearful patients, but as always, do your homework first. Check the doctors credentials and make sure he/she has had the proper training, or has a qualified, licensed anesthetist on staff.

Now this is something to smile about! So, Keep Smiling!

Are You Suffering From Keto Breath?

The Ketogenic (Keto) diet is known for its extremely low carbohydrates and high-fat foods. People who have followed and stuck with the Keto diet have been very successful.

One major side effect of starting keto is "keto breath". This has been described as a fruity or sweet smell that often disappears once the body is in ketosis. It can take about 21 days for the body to adapt so try these tips for better-smelling breath:

• Staying hydrated
• Increased carb intake
• Chewing gum or sucking on mints
• Brushing teeth frequently

 As gross as "keto breath" sounds, it's an indication that the keto diet is working!

The Different Types of Teeth in a Human Mouth

Humans actually have four different types of teeth, and each has a distinctly different function:   

     -Incisors (Front Teeth) for cutting off bites of food.

     -Cuspids (sometimes called canines because of their long sharp points) for tearing food.

     -Bicuspids (have two points) to tear and crush food.

     -Molars (Back Teeth) they have large, relatively flat surfaces to crush and grind food.

Now that you know each of your teeth serves a purpose,  be sure to take care of them with check-ups at least twice a year. (:  

Remember:  if you take care of your teeth, they will take care of you!

Keep Smiling! 

So, What Do Our Taste Buds Do, Exactly?

When you're taking a bite of a big, juicy burger or sipping on a milkshake, you know one thing... It tastes good, right? Did you ever think about why that is? 

Your tongue and the roof of your mouth are covered in thousands of these tiny little buds. When you eat, your saliva helps break down food. Your taste buds send little messages to your brain which tell you all kinds of information like whether or not the food tastes good, if it's hot, cold, sweet, sour, etc.

Taste buds are most important because they play the biggest part in how we enjoy different foods and flavors. As a child, you would have been more sensitive to different foods because your taste buds were not only on your tongue, but on the roof and the sides of your mouth. As an adult, you may notice that certain foods you were unable to eat as a child taste better. This is because your taste buds are more centered to your tongue area and are now less sensitive.

Here are some tidbits of information about your taste buds:

-Buds that taste bitterness are located at the back of the tongue. Sour taste buds are located on either side of the tongue, with salty/sweet buds on the tip. The center of the tongue does not have many taste buds. There is research that disputes this theory.  Some believe that there are no "zones" in your mouth for sensing specific tastes.  Who knows?  Things (and theories) are always changing!

- The five taste categories are salty, bitter, sweet, sour and umami (savory).

- If you get fat, so does your tongue!  This is believed to be a contributing factor in Sleep Apnea.

- Taste buds are not visible to the naked eye.

-Taste is the weakest of the 5 senses.

- Girls have more taste buds than boys.

-We have approximately 2000-4000 taste buds inside our mouths.

Taste on, and Keep Smiling!

How To Keep Your Teeth Clean This Year!

We all brush and hopefully floss our teeth daily. But did you know that there are other important questions you should ask, so you can keep your mouth as clean and healthy as possible?

When should I brush my teeth?

1. You should brush your teeth at least two times a day, once in the morning before breakfast and once at night before you head to bed.
2. Try to avoid brushing your teeth right after a meal because this could damage your teeth, especially if you just had anything containing acid. *This is because the acid softens the enamel on your teeth*

Should I use a manual or electric toothbrush?
This depends on what you feel comfortable using. (They both are equally good.)

What type of toothpaste should I use?
Use a toothpaste that contains fluoride. (Fluoride helps prevent and control cavities.)

How to brush your teeth?

1. Your toothbrush should be at a 45-degree angle, brush in small circular movements several times on all surfaces of the tooth.
2. Brush the roof of your mouth
3. Brush your tongue, this will freshen your breath.

How to Floss?

1. Take a section of floss
2. Slip the floss between your teeth
3. Floss up and down about 10 times
4. Floss at least once a day, best time is right before bed.

You can use normal floss (waxed or unwaxed) or you can use the floss picks/gliders.

After brushing and flossing you should use a mouthwash. Mouthwash helps get rid of any last bits of bacteria or leftover food that you may have missed while brushing and flossing.

Dentistry is Becoming an All-Inclusive Art

 Technology is rapidly advancing, particularly in the dental industry. So, it is no surprise that dentists are branching out into other fields. Simple dental caries, bruxism, orthodontic malocclusion and misalignment of the jaw have long been treated by the dentist, while treatments for varying ailments such as sleep apnea, migraine headaches, ringing in the ears and even Tourette’s syndrome have always fallen into the purview of an MD or a medical specialist.  However, by advancement of technology, dentists are now able to integrate dental treatments for things like TMJ or structural Maxillofacial problems with the jaw into treatments for these ailments, among other things. 

Devices such as TMD splints, night orthotics and post-orthodontic appliances are proving to be useful for a variety of ailments.  It seems that misalignment of the jaw can contribute to a myriad of ailments...including sleep apnea, digestive issues, poor body posture, muscle spasms, decreased strength overall along with muscle aches and pains, to name just a few. 
If you suffer from any of these ailments, you might consider consulting with your dentist as well as your healthcare provider.  There may be a simple solution out there for you!

Keep Smiling!