Beaverton Dental Arts

Oral Hygiene Basics

2011-12-26T22:08:00.000-08:00

•Brush your teeth twice a day with an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste. Replace your toothbrush every three or four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed.
•Clean between teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner.
•Eat a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks.
•Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams.

Bisphenol A

2011-10-20T12:30:00.000-07:00

Bisphenol A (BPA) is widely used in the manufacture of many consumer plastic products. BPA is used in the manufacture of products such as hard polycarbonate water bottles, some baby bottles, and the lining of food cans and bottle tops. There is also evidence that some dental sealants, and to a lesser extent dental composites, may contribute to very low-level BPA exposure.

Some scientific studies have suggested that BPA, like soy and phthalates (chemicals added to plastics to increase flexibility and durability), may affect reproduction and development in animals by mimicking the effects of the female hormone estrogen. This has raised concerns about its safety. To date, these effects have not been observed in humans, and are questionable at the exposure levels resulting from consumer products.

The ADA believes any concern about potential BPA exposure from dental sealants or composites is unwarranted at this time. When compared with other sources of BPA, these dental materials pose significantly lower exposure concerns.

Benefits of Sugarless Gum

2011-09-04T15:50:00.000-07:00

The physical act of chewing increases the flow of saliva in your mouth. If you chew after eating, the increased salivary flow can help neutralize and wash away the acids that are produced when food is broken down by the bacteria in plaque on your teeth. Increased saliva flow also carries with it more calcium and phosphate to help strengthen tooth enamel. Clinical studies have shown that chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes following meals can help prevent tooth decay. It is not, however, a substitute for brushing and flossing.

Facts About Gum Disease

2011-07-22T16:45:00.000-07:00

- On average, about 50% of adults suffer from bleeding gums.
- Diabetics are 2x more likely to develop serious gum disease.
- Gum disease is the major cause of tooth loss in adults over 35.
- Factors contributing to gum disease include: smoking, crooked teeth, defective fillings, pregnancies and oral contraceptives.
- A diet rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (fish & nuts) can help lower the risks.

Oral Exam Can Indicate Serious Medical Conditions

2011-05-18T20:36:00.000-07:00

Regular dental exams not only help to decrease a patient's risk of oral diseases, such as cavities and periodontal (gum) disease, but they may also help to diagnose other, sometimes life-threatening, medical conditions such as diabetes, oral cancer, and eating disorders.

Diseases negatively impact your general health, but can also damage your oral health. Regular scheduled dental exams allow dentists to detect or monitor your health.

5 Tips for Dental Health

2011-04-20T10:46:00.000-07:00

1. See a dentist at least once a year.
2. Brush your teeth at least twice daily.
3. Floss at least once a day.
4. Practice good dietary habits by limitting sugar intake.
5. Take fluoride topically (for teeth already in the mouth) or through fluoridated water (for developing teeth).

What is Gum Disease

2011-03-16T09:33:00.000-07:00

Gum disease or periodontitis, is when your gums pull away from your teeth and form pockets that are infected with a variety of bacteria. Bacterial toxins and and your body's natural response to fight the infection start to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. If left untreated, the bones, gums, and fibers that support the teeth can be destroyed. Your teeth will eventually become loose and may need to be removed.

A Kiss is not Just a Kiss

2011-03-02T12:31:00.000-08:00

Just with one kiss, more than 500 different types of disease-causing germs and viruses can be transmitted. Some of the most common diseases and viruses that you and your partner can transmit to each other while kissing are: cold sores, mononucleosis, cold and flu.

Your Child's First Dental Visit

2011-02-17T14:20:00.000-08:00

When? Ideally 6 months after the child's first (primary) teeth erupt.
What will happen? A gentle examination of the oral cavity. Polishing of teeth to remove any plaque, tartar, or stains. Necessary x-rays. Demonstation on how to care for the mouth and teeth. Nutritional counseling, and assessment of the need for fluoride.
Frequency of visit? Like adults, children should see the dentist every 6 months.

Bruxism

2011-01-25T07:59:00.000-08:00

Bruxism is characterized by the grinding of teeth and is typically accompanied by clenching of the jaw. There are multiple causes including: bite problems, stress, medical conditions, or certain medications. Bruxism can result in abnormal wear patterns on the top of teeth, notching of the teeth at the gumlines, unusually sensitive teeth, as well as severe damage to teeth including fractures. It is also a significant cause of tooth loss, gum recession, and loosening of teeth.

Why is Brushing so Important

2011-01-11T10:02:00.000-08:00

Regular toothbrushing with toothpaste plays a major role in reducing the growth of plaque - a thin, sticky film of bacteria that creates cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease. Brushing also helps clean and polish your teeth, removes stain, freshens your breath, and leaves your mouth feeling clean.

Latex Allergy

2010-12-09T21:57:00.000-08:00

Latex allergy generally develops after repeated exposure to products containing natural rubber latex. When exposed to latex proteins, a latex-sensitive individual, whether a health care worker or a patient, may experience minor symptoms, such as hives or nasal congestion. Severe cases may result in anaphylaxis, a dangerous systemic reaction that causes a drop in blood pressure, difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, tongue and nose, and even loss of consciousness and could be life-threatening if unattended. Emergency medical attention is needed at the first sign of anaphylactic reaction.
For the safety of our staff and patients, our office uses only non-latex products.

Peanut Butter Fights Gum Disease

2010-11-10T08:25:00.000-08:00

Polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs), found in peanut butter and fish oil, have been shown to help prevent periodontitis (gum disease). PUFAs known to have anti-inflamatory properties, shows promise for the effective treatment and prevention of periodontitis. A recent study found that people who consumed the most fatty acids had a 30% reduced risk of gum disease.

Tongue Piercing

2010-10-20T10:25:00.000-07:00

Tongue piercing can result in serious injury - including chipped and fractured teeth, gum trauma, hemorrhage, and infection - there is now a new concern. According to a study by the University of Buffalo, tongue piercing can cause a gap in the front teeth that may cost thousands of dollars in orthodontic bills to fix. The presence of the barbell in the tongue encouraged habit in a very high percentage of cases wherein subjects pushed the metal stud against and in between their upper front teeth which lead to a formation of a gap.

Oral Cancer

2010-10-12T09:39:00.001-07:00

People can get lesions, sores or spots in their mouths for a variety of reasons and many times these sores go away on their own and pose no problem. However, if you havea sore or spot in your mouth that has been there for more than two weeks, it's important that it be evaluated.
The best way to prevent oral cancer is to avoid risky behaviors including tobacco and alcohol use.

What is Plaque?

2010-10-05T13:51:00.000-07:00

Plaque is a thin, sticky film that constantly forms on teeth. When you eat or drink foods containing sugar, the bacteria in plaque produce acids that attack tooth enamel. The stickiness of the plaque keeps these acids in contact with teeth. After many acid attacks, the enamel breaks down and a cavity forms.
If the plaque is not removed with daily brushing and cleaning between teeth, it eventually hardens into calculus, or tartar. This accumulation of calculus will eventually lead to periodontal disease and eventually tooth loss.

Bisphenol A (BPA)

2010-09-09T22:09:00.000-07:00

Some scientific studies have suggested that BPA, like soy and phthalates, may affect reproduction and development in animals by mimicking the effects of the female hormone estrogen, thereby raising concerns about its safety. To date, these effects have not been observed in humans and are questionable at the exposure levels resulting from consumer and dental products.

The ADA believes any concern about potential BPA exposure from dental sealants or composites is unwarranted at this time. When compared with other sources of BPA, these dental materials pose significantly lower exposure concerns.

Treatment For a Knocked Out Tooth

2010-08-24T22:22:00.000-07:00

What to do when your tooth is knocked out. Hold the tooth by the crown and rinse off the root of the tooth in water if it’s dirty. Do not scrub it or remove any attached tissue fragments. If possible, gently insert and hold the tooth in its socket. If that isn’t possible, put the tooth in a cup of milk and get to the dentist as quickly as possible. Remember to take the tooth with you!

Bottled Water

2010-08-11T20:42:00.000-07:00

For six decades, the American Dental Association has continuously endorsed the fluoridation of community water supplies and the use of fluoride-containing products as safe and effective measures for preventing tooth decay.
The majority of bottled waters on the market do not contain optimal levels (0.7-1.2 ppm) of fluoride. And, some types of home water treatment systems can reduce the fluoride levels in water supplies potentially decreasing the decay-preventive effects of optimally fluoridated water.

Oral Cancer

2010-07-20T11:14:00.000-07:00

One of the most common cancer is oral cancer. There were 35,000 new cases reported annually in the United States resulting in 7600 deaths reported in 2009. Tobacco use, excessive sun exposure, and alcohol consumption have been found to increase the risk of developing oral cancer. If not diagnosed and treated in its early stages, oral cancer can spread, leading to chronic pain, loss of oral function, irreparable facial and oral disfigurement following surgery, and even death. It's important ot regularly visist your dentist so he or she can perform a screening for oral cancer.

Bottled Water

2010-07-09T22:03:00.001-07:00

Pregnancy and Your Oral Health

2010-06-04T23:58:00.000-07:00

Changes in hormone level during pregnancy can exaggerate the way which gum tissues react to plaque leading to "pregnancy gingivitis". If you already have gingivitis, the condition is likely to worsen during pregnancy. Untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease that includes bone loss.

Research suggests a link between pre-term delivery, low birthweight babies, and gingivitis. Excessive bacteria can enter the bloodstream through your gums; the bacteria can travel to the uterus, triggering the production of chemicals called prostaglandins, which are suspected to induce premature labor.

Brighten Your Smile

2010-05-22T22:01:00.000-07:00

The most effective and safest method for a brighter smile is tooth bleaching that is supervised by your dentist. It is generally successful in 90% of patients, though it may not be an option for everyone. Tooth bleaching is most effective for yellow, brown or orange teeth that have darkened from age, coffee, tea or smoking. Gray stains caused by fluorosis, smoking or tetracycline use can be lightened, but results are not as dramatic. If you have sensitive teeth, periodontal disease or teeth with worn enamel, your dentist may discourage bleaching.

Making Brushing Easier with Arthritis

2010-05-10T22:52:00.000-07:00

Flossing and brushing for good oral health may be more difficult when you have arthritis. Certain dental products are designed to make dental care less painful for arthritis sufferers. Strapping the toothbrush to a larger object, such as a ball, to make the toothbrush more comfortable to handle, or electric toothbrushes can help by doing some of the work for you. Floss handles or flossers can help make flossing easier and back teeth more accessible.

Symptoms of Oral Cancer

2010-04-14T08:37:00.000-07:00

- A sore in the mouth that doesn't healed within 14 days.
- A lump or thickening in the mouth, neck or face.
- Hard spots on the tongue, particularly on the lateral borders.
- Hoarseness lasting for a long time.
- Numbness in the oral/facial region.
- Pain or difficulty swallowing, speaking, chewing, or moving the tongue or jaw.
- Persistent sore that does not reponse to treatment.
- Wart-like masses in the mouth.
- Unilateral persistent earache.
- Painless but hard lymph node without an infectious cause.
- Denture patients: swelling that cause the denture to not fit normally.

Xylitol - The Sweet Facts

2010-04-05T10:34:00.000-07:00

Xylitol is a sugar alcohol sweetener from birch tree bark, beets, corncobs, raspberries, mushrooms, other natural resources. It has about 40% fewer calories and is considered safe by several agencies including the US Food and Drug Administration. Pet owners should be aware that xylitol is harmful to dogs.

Xylitol helps prevent cavities by preventing the cavity causing bacteria from attaching to teeth and tissues in the mouth. It cannot be metabolized by bacteria therefore the process that creates harmful, enamel-eating acids is drastically slowed. For it to be most effective, xylitol containing products should be used 3-5 times a day (total intake of 5 grams). Dentists recommend using xylitol immediately after meals and snacks to help reduce cavities.

Xylitol can be found in chewing gums, toothpastes, mouthwashes and other oral care products, candies and some pharmaceuticals. On food labels, xylitol is classified broadly as a carbohydrate and more specifically as a polyol.

Vegetarian Diet and Dental Health

2010-03-25T22:31:00.000-07:00

Although vegetarian diets vary, some vegetarians, can experience deficiencies in calcium, vitamin D, riboflavin, vitamin B12 or complete protein. A prolonged period on a vegetarian diet can increase the risk for periodontal (gum) disease from a lack of vitamin D and calcium.

Teeth may soften when there is a shortage of vitamin D, becoming more susceptible to decay and periodontal disease. Vitamin D is produced in the body with sun exposure, so deficiencies are rare, but it can develop in those who do not consume milk or fish. Adding vegetable margarines or soy milk to the diet may solve the problem.

What's in Toothpaste?

2010-03-09T11:09:00.000-08:00

Toothpaste is available in paste, gel or powder form. Despite the many types of tooothpaste, some ingredients are common to most varieties:
1. Abrasives: polish teeth and remove stains.
2. Fluoride: make teeth more resistant to decay and stronger.
3. Antimicrobial agents (xylitol, triclosan): fight the bacteria of dental plaque and gum disease.
4. Surfactants: carry away debris from the mouth and in between teeth.
5. Anti-tartar agents: prevent the formation of tartar.
6. Desensitizing agents: relieve tooth sensitivity.
7. Binding agents: bind all the components of the toothpaste together.
8. Humectant: prevent the toothpaste from drying up.
9. Flavor: make the brushing experience more enjoyable.
10. Sweetening agents: make the formulation more suitable for oral use.

Children Fluoride Intake

2010-02-20T22:11:00.000-08:00

The amount of fluoride children intake is very important. Too much fluoride can cause tooth discoloration, and too little fluoride can cause teeth to be susceptible to cavities. Parents should be aware of the amount of fluoride in bottle water and local water source. When introducing toothpaste, the Academy of General Dentistry recommends using a small pea-sized dab. Until the age of six or when the child is able to spit, parents should be brushing their child's teeth.

Your Toddler's Teeth

2010-02-07T06:54:00.000-08:00

February is National Children Dental Health month. Most parents often wait too long before taking their toddler to the dentist. Most children get their first between 3 and 6 months. The Academy of General Dentistry recommends taking your child to the dentist 6 months after the eruption of the first tooth.

It is important to begin a cleaning routine as soon as the firtst tooth is erupted. Use a warm washcloth or a moistened cotton swab to clean your child's teeth after every meal. This get the child used to having something in his or her mouth. After this, graduate to a small, soft toothbrush. You don't need to add toothpaste into the regimen until your child is 2 years old; use only a pea-sized amount.

Teeth Whitening

2010-01-27T21:29:00.000-08:00

Although teeth whitening may be one of the safest, non-invasive and cost-efficient ways to improve your smile, cautions should be taken prior to using do-it-yourself kits or a trip to the mall. Proper whitening depends upon the use of a custom-made bleaching tray, which only a dentist can properly fit. Some Internet companies sell the materials that allow consumers to make their own whitening tray. But only dentists can assure the proper use of these materials. Without supervision and expertise, these materials can cause damage to existing dental work or the teeth themselves. A dental exam should be done prior to starting any bleaching procedure.

Dental Health and Your Heart Health

2010-01-13T13:46:00.000-08:00

Researchers are finding possible links between periodontal (gum) infections and other diseases throughout the body. Current studies suggest that there may be a link between gum disease adn cardiovascular disease. In fact, some research suggests that gum disease may be more serious risk factor for heart disease than high blood pressure (hypertension), smoking, high chloresterol, gender and age. People who have gum disease seem to be at a higher risk for heart attcks.

Vegetarianism and Dental Health

2009-12-29T23:00:00.000-08:00

A vegetarian diet can experience deficiencies in calcium, vitamin D, riboflavin, vitamin B12, or complete proteins. An adult on a vegetarian diet for a prolonged period of time can be at an increased risk for periodontal (gum) disease from a lack of vitamin D and calcium. Teeth may soften when there's a shortage of vitamin D, becoming more susceptible to decay. Deficiency in vitamin D is rare, however, since it is produced in the body with sun exposure, but it can develop in those who do not consume milk or fish.

Dental Implant

2009-12-11T19:44:00.000-08:00

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is surgically anchored into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge in place. The benefit is that implants do not rely on neighboring teeth for support and they are very stable. Implants are a good solution to tooth loss because they look and feel like natural teeth.

Once in placed, implants can now be used to support bridges, crowns, dentures or eliminating the need for dentures altogether. The cost tends to be greater, but the implant supported crowns and bridges more closely resemble real teeth.

Why Do I Need X-rays?

2009-11-13T23:34:00.000-08:00

Radiographic, or x-ray, examination provide your dentist with an important diagnostic tool that shows the condition of your teeth, its roots, jaw placement and the overall composition of your facial bones. X-rays can help your dentist determine the presence or degree of periodontal (gum) disease, abscesses and many abnormal growths, such as cysts and tumors. They can pinpoint the location of cavities and other signs of disease that may not be possible with a visual examination.

Dental x-rays require exposure to very low levels of radiation, which makes the risk of potential harmful effects very small. Precautions are always taken to minimize your exposure to radiation.

So You Want to Pierce Your Tongue?

2009-11-05T22:39:00.000-08:00

Oral piercing can cause pain, swelling, infection, drooling, taste loss, scarring, chipped teeth and tooth loss. Most dentists discourage oral piercing because of these risks.

Fractured teeth are a commom problem for people with oral piercings. People chip teeth on tongue piercings while eating, sleeping, talking and simply chewing on the jewelry. It is not unusual for the tongue to swell after being punctured, and in some cases the tongue swells so much that it can cut off your breathing. Infection can result from piercings. The tongue is covered with bacteria, so any infection can be serious. Bacteria can find its way into the bloodstream at the site of puncture.

Maintaining your piercing will decreased complications. Keep the piercing clean with antiseptic mouthwash after meals and brush the jewelry the same as you would your teeth. After the tongue as healed, take the piercing out and brush it daily.

Diabetes and Your Oral Health

2009-10-25T22:16:00.000-07:00

How Does Diabetes Affect Oral Health?

Studies have shown that diabetics are more susceptible to the development of oral infections and periodontal (gum) disease than those who do not have diabetes. It is often more severe in diabetic patients.

How are gum disease and diabetes related?

Because diabetes reduces the body's resistance to infection, the gums are at risk for gingivitis, an inflammation usually caused by the presence of bacteria in plaque. Without regular dental check-ups, gum disease may result if gingivitis is left untreated.

What other types of problems could I experience?

Diabetics may experience burning mouth syndrome and fungal infections, such as thrush and oral candidiasis. Dry mouth (xerostomia) also may develop, causing an increased incidence of decay.

Why Do I Need X-ray?

2009-10-07T23:28:00.000-07:00

Radiographic, or X-ray, examinations provide your dentist with an important tool that shows the condition of your teeth, its roots, jaw placement and the overall composition of your facial bones. X-rays can help your dentist determine the presence or degree of periodontal (gum) disease, abscesses and many abnormal growths, such as cysts and tumors. X-rays also can show the exact location of impacted and unerupted teeth. They can pinpoint the location of cavities and other signs of disease that may not be possible to detect through a visual examination.

Brushing with Toothpaste...Why?

2009-09-19T19:54:00.000-07:00

Brushing with toothpaste is important for several reasons.

Toothpaste and a correct brushing action work to remove plaque, a sticky, harmful film of bacteria that grows on your teeth that causes cavities, gum disease and eventual tooth loss if not controlled.
Toothpaste contains fluoride, which makes the entire tooth structure more resistant to decay and promotes remineralization, which aids in repairing early decay before the damage can even be seen.
Special ingredients in toothpaste help to clean and polish the teeth and remove stains over time.
Toothpastes help freshen breath and leave your mouth with a clean feeling.

Biting Off More Than You Can Chew

2009-09-02T22:42:00.000-07:00

In our fast-paced lives, many of us may be eating in a hurry, taking giant bites of our food to get done quickly and on to the next task. Fast-food restaurants advertise giant burgers and sandwiches as a selling point, but often those super-sized delicacies are larger than a human mouth.

Taking bites that are too big to chew could be bad for your jaw and teeth, says the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), an organization of general dentists dedicated to continuing education. At particular risk are people with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), which can restrict the range of acceptable bite size.

Cautions should also be taken with biting into hard food. People should always avoid chewing ice, popcorn kernels and opening nuts with their teeth, which can lead to chipping and breakage of natural teeth and restorations.

Wisdom Teeth

2009-08-12T22:15:00.000-07:00

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to grow in the back of the mouth. The third molars usually will try to grow in at around age 17 to 21 years. Since that is considered to be the age when people become wiser, third molars gained the nickname, "wisdom teeth."

Actually, they are no different than any other tooth except that they are the last teeth to erupt, or grow into the mouth. They are just as useful as any other tooth if they grow in properly, have a proper bite relationship and have healthy gum tissue around them. Unfortunately, this does not always happen.

Common reasons for wisdom teeth removal include impaction, pain and crowding of the other teeth. Complications also can arise when wisdom teeth partially erupt. The broken gum acts as a breeding ground for bacteria.

Unless they grow in properly, third molars should be evaluated for extraction before complications arise.

Dental Sealants

2009-08-05T21:37:00.000-07:00

By age 19, tooth decay affects nearly 70 percent of America's children, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Left untreated, tooth decay, also known as cavities, may result in pain and infection. Surveys show the majority of all cavities occur in the narrow pits and grooves of a child's newly erupted teeth because food particles and bacteria are not easily cleaned out.

One highly effective option to help prevent cavities is dental sealants – a thin plastic film painted on the chewing surface of teeth. Dental sealants have been proven a safe and cost-efficient dental procedure for patients prone to cavities. Sealants act as a barrier to "seal-off" space between the tooth surface and any small food particles or bacteria that may otherwise cause a cavity in an "unsealed" tooth.

Paired with twice-daily brushing with a fluoridated toothpaste, a healthy diet and visiting the dentist twice a year to monitor the sealants' placement or bond on the tooth, properly applied dental sealants are 100-percent effective in preventing cavities.

Why Should I Floss?

2009-07-26T22:28:00.000-07:00

Floss removes plaque and debris that adhere to teeth and gums in between teeth, polishes tooth surfaces and controls bad breath. By flossing your teeth daily, you increase the chances of keeping your teeth a lifetime and decrease your chance of having periodontal (gum) disease and tooth decay.

Flossing is the single most important weapon against plaque, perhaps more important than the toothbrush. A toothbrush cleans the tops and sides of your teeth. Dental floss cleans between them. Some people use waterpicks, but floss is the best choice. Many people just don't spend enough time flossing and many have never been taught to floss properly. When you visit your dentist or hygienist, ask to be shown.

(Courtesy of AGD)

Sport Drinks: Good for Thirst, Bad for Teeth

2009-06-27T21:09:00.000-07:00

A New York University College of Dentistry research revealed that the acids in sports drinks can eat away at the tooth's hard enamel coating and eventually damage the bonelike material underneath, which will cause the tooth to become soft and weak.

In the study, researchers bisected cow teeth and placed one half of the sample in a popular sports drink and the other half in water. The teeth were immersed in the liquids for 90 minutes to simulate the effects of continual sipping throughout the course of a day. They found significant amounts of erosion and softening of the teeth placed in the sports drink. Researchers also noted that brushing after consumption of sports drinks can compound the problem of erosion because the softened enamel can be damaged by the abrasive properties of toothpaste.

Tooth Erosion

2009-06-22T23:15:00.000-07:00

Tooth erosion, or tooth wear, is the loss of tooth structure. Basically, tooth erosion refers to the wearing away of the hard part of your teeth, which is called the enamel.

Many people consume carbonated beverages, fruit juice, and highly acidic foods every day but probably don't realize that they might be harming their teeth. The acid in the foods we eat and drink can cause tooth enamel to wear away, making teeth sensitive, cracked, and discolored. Diseases such as bulimia and acid reflux also contribute to tooth erosion due to stomach acids.

Signs of Tooth Erosion:
- sensitivity - mild to severe
- discoloration
- rounded teeth
- transparency - especially near the biting edges
- advanced discoloration
- cracks
- cupping (small dents) on the chewing surface of teeth

What is a Composite Resin (White Filling)?

2009-06-03T23:14:00.000-07:00

A composite filling is a tooth-colored plastic and glass mixture used to restore decayed teeth. Composites are also used for cosmetic improvements of the smile by changing the color of the teeth or reshaping disfigured teeth.

How is it placed?

Following preparation, composite is placed in layers, typically using a light specialized to harden each layer. It is then shaped and polished to fit the tooth and to prevent staining and wear.

What are the advantages?

Aesthetics are the main advantage of composites since various shades can be blended to a color nearly identical to the actual tooth. Composites bond to the tooth to support the remaining tooth structure, which helps to prevent breakage and insulate the tooth from excessive temperature changes.

What are the disadvantages?

Postoperative sensivity is not uncommon. Composites can also pick up stain from drinking tea, coffee or consumption of staining foods. It can also wear out sooner than silver filling in larger cavities, although they hold up as well in small cavities.

Recession Has a Sweet Tooth

2009-05-18T21:48:00.000-07:00

The New York Times (March 23, 2009) reports that as unemployment rises and investment porfolios shrink, Americans - particularly adults - have been consuming a growing volume of candy. There are several theories as to why Americans are appeasing their sweet tooth more frequently. The Times suggests that the sugar might lift the spirits of those bogged down by the bad economy. For others, the Times says candy provides a nostralgic reminder of the good old days. Analysts say that when times are tough, many people feel the need to indulge themselves.

AGD Impact (May 2009)

Why Brush with Fluoride Toothpaste?

2009-04-29T21:15:00.000-07:00

Brushing with toothpaste is important for several reasons. First and foremost, a toothpaste and a correct brushing action work to remove plaque, a sticky, harmful film of bacteria that grows on your teeth that causes cavities, gum disease and eventual tooth loss if not controlled. Second, toothpaste contains fluoride, which makes the entire tooth structure more resistant to decay and promotes remineralization, which aids in repairing early decay before the damage can even be seen. Third, special ingredients in toothpaste help to clean and polish the teeth and remove stains over time. Fourth, toothpastes help freshen breath and leave your mouth with a clean feeling.

How much toothpaste?

Contrary to what toothpaste commercials show, the amount of paste or gel needed on your brush for effective cleaning does not have to be a heaping amount. Simply squeeze a pea-sized dab of paste on the top half of your brush. If you brush correctly, holding the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and brush inside, outside and between your teeth, the paste should foam enough to cover all of your teeth. Children under age 6, however, should be given a very small, baby pea-sized dab of toothpaste on their brush.

What type of toothpaste?

As long as your toothpaste contains fluoride, the brand you buy really does not matter, neither does whether or not it is in paste, gel or even powder form, or containing a certain flavor. All fluoride toothpastes work effectively to fight plaque and cavities and clean and polish tooth enamel. Your toothpaste brand should bear the ADA (American Dental Association) seal of approval on the container, which means that adequate evidence of safety and efficacy have been demonstrated in controlled, clinical trials

What is Dental Amalgam (Silver Fillings)?

2009-04-02T23:04:00.000-07:00

Most people recognize dental amalgams as silver fillings. Dental amalgam is a mixture of mercury, silver, tin and copper. Mercury, which makes up about 50 percent of the compound, is used to bind the metals together and to provide a strong, hard, durable filling. After years of research, mercury has been found to be the only element that will bind these metals together in such a way that can be easily manipulated into a tooth cavity.

The main concern with most patients is of the mercury element in amalgam fillings. Mercury in dental amalgam is not poisonous. When mercury is combined with other materials in dental amalgam, its chemical nature changes, so it is essentially harmless. The amount of mercury released in the mouth under the pressure of chewing and grinding is extremely small and no cause for alarm. In fact, it is less than what patients are exposed to in food, air and water. Claims of diseases caused by mercury in amalgams have not been proven scientifically.

Dental amalgam has withstood the test of time, which is why it is the material of choice. It has a 150-year proven track record and is still one of the safest, durable and least expensive materials used to a fill a cavity. Alternatives to amalgam, such as cast gold restorations, porcelain and composite resins are more costly. Gold and porcelain restorations take longer to make and can require two dental appointments. Composite resins, or white fillings, are aesthetically appealing but require a longer time to place the restoration.

Xylitol - Chewing Away Cavities

2009-03-04T23:31:00.000-08:00

Xylitol is a natural sweetener found in plants and fruits, xylitol was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1986 as a food additive and is now appearing in sugar-free gum, mints and toothpaste.

Xylitol touting sweet-as-sugar taste that is low in calories may reduce and prevent cavities. Research confirms that of all factors studied, xylitol most likely inhibits the growth of Streptococcus mutans, the oral bacteria that causes cavities, according to Allen Otsuka, PhD, one author of a study in the July/August 2002 issue of General Dentistry, the clinical, peer-reviewed publication of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD).

Hormones Happen: Women and Dental Health

2009-02-01T21:55:00.000-08:00

Why women are more prone to cavities? A comprehensive review of dental records found that women have more dental health issues than men do. This disparity is due to reproduction and fertility issues linked to female-specific hormones.

Food and societal changes have been linked to increased cavities among women. However, new research published in Current Anthropology (Oct '08) suggests that internal and external factors are to blame. Three main changes contribute to women's higher rates of cavities:

Female sex hormone. Estrogen can significantly impact cavity formation and dietary changes.
Saliva. Women naturally produce less saliva than men, reducing the removal of food residue. The chemical composition of saliva changes, reducing saliva's antimicrobial capacity.
Food cravings during pregnancy. Women often crave high-energy, sweet food during the third trimester.

Women can help avoid oral condition associated with hormonal changes by maintaining a balanced diet and practicing good daily oral care...brushing at least twice daily with toothpaste containing fluoride and flossing twice a day.

Smoking and Tooth Loss

2009-01-04T23:17:00.000-08:00

The new ban on smoking in all indoor places in Oregon is one of the many reasons to quit smoking in the new year. Studies find that smokers are more likely to loose their teeth than their non-smoking counterparts

A one-pack-a-day smoking habit can cost you the loss of at least two teeth every 10 years, reports the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Smokers are about twice as likely to lose their teeth than non-smokers, according to the results of two separate 30-year studies that investigated the relationship between smoking and tooth loss among males and females at Tufts University in Boston. Reports tooth loss due to smoking at the rate of 2.9 teeth every 10 years for men, while non-smokers lost an average of 1.3 teeth after 10 years. For women, there's an average of 1.5 teeth loss every 10 years, twice as likely as their non-smoking counterparts.

The good news is that, the risk of losing teeth will decrease by stopping the use of tobacco.

Bruxism...Teeth Grinding and Clenching

2008-12-25T22:52:00.000-08:00

One in three people suffer from bruxism. Untreated, bruxism can lead to facial pain and teeth damage. People unintentionally bite down hard at inappropriate time such as in their sleep or while in deep concentration. Bruxism may be more noticeable during time of stress, anger or pain. Personality types may also be associated with bruxism such as highly competitive or agressive people.

Bruxism is often undiagnosed until it's too late because people don't realize they have the habit. Physical signs of bruxism may indicate that the habit has been ongoing for a prolonged period of time. Therapy may be simply becoming aware of the problem and changing behavior. For some people, a plastic mouth appliance is needed to absorb the force of biting. This appliance, commonly known as a nightguard, is usually worn during sleep. It can prevent future damage to the teeth and helps change the patient's destructive behavior. Biofeedback is another method used on daytime grinders by using electronic instruments to measure muscle activity and to teach patients how to reduce muscle activity when the biting force becomes too great.

What are the signs of bruxism?

- Tips of the teeth look flat

- Extreme sensitivity due to the inside of the tooth being exposed from grinding

- Jaw pain due to popping and clicking of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)

- Tongue and cheek indentations

Damaging Effects of Dental Plaque

2008-12-20T00:04:00.000-08:00

Dental plaque is biofilm (usually colorless) that builds up on the teeth. If not removed regularly, it can lead to dental cavities or periodontal problems (such as gingivitis). Microorganisms present in dental plaque are all naturally present in the oral cavity, and are normally harmless. However, failure to remove plaque by regular tooth brushing means that they are allowed to build up in a thick layer. Those microorganisms nearest the tooth surface convert to anaerobic respiration; it is in this state that they start to produce acids.

Acids released from dental plaque lead to demineralization of the adjacent tooth surface, and consequently to dental caries. Saliva is also unable to penetrate the build-up of plaque and thus cannot act to neutralize the acid produced by the bacteria and remineralize the tooth surface.
They also cause irritation of the gums around the teeth that could lead to gingivitis, periodontal disease and tooth loss. Plaque build up can also become mineralized and form calculus (tartar).

Frequency of brushing and flossing with good technique is important, because the nature (i.e., composition) of the microorganisms change as the plaque ages. Therefore, plaque which is 12 hours old for example is much less damaging than plaque which has not been removed in days.

Mouthwash use is also beneficial in conjunction with regular brushing to combat dental plaque. Antiseptic and anti-plaque mouth rinse claims to kill the bacteria that cause plaque, gingivitis, and halitosis. Anti-cavity mouthwash contains fluoride, protecting against tooth decay.

Dental Sealants...Preventing Decay

2008-11-26T09:02:00.000-08:00

Dental sealants are a dental treatment consisting of applying a plastic material to one or more teeth, for the intended purpose of preventing dental caries (cavities) or other forms of tooth decay.

Teeth in the back of the mouth (molars and premolars) have numerous pits and fissures on their biting surfaces, certain areas of these teeth are often difficult to clean even with vigorous tooth-brushing.

Dental sealants are usually applied in a dentist's office. The dentist, dental hygienist or assistant first cleans and dries the tooth to be treated, then paints a thin layer of liquid plastic material on the pits and fissures of the tooth. After application of the plastic liquid, blue spectrum natural light is shined on the applied material for a few seconds to cure the plastic. Alternatively, some brands of sealants self-cure via a chemical process.

After curing, the plastic becomes a hard, thin layer covering the treated portions of the tooth. Despite the incredible pressures effected on teeth during chewing each day, dental sealants may remain effective for five years or longer, although sealants do wear naturally and may become damaged over time. Bacteria and food particles may eventually become entrapped under the dental sealants, and can thus cause decay in the very teeth intended to be protected.

Period dental examinations are essential in monitoring the integrity of the sealants placed. Although, dental sealants are often placed in children, they can also be placed in adult dentition.

Focus of the Month - Implants

2008-11-17T08:33:00.000-08:00

We hope the following article will help answer any questions you may have about implants. This increasing popular treatment option for replacing missing teeth is becoming the treatment of choice for many of our patients.
http://www.agd.org/public/OralHealthFacts/files/pdfgenerator.aspx?pdf=FS_Implants.pdf&id=