Thursday, May 30, 2013

Shocking information on how Carbonated soda can damage your teeth just as bad as meth and cocaine.

Addicted to soda? You may be shocked to learn that drinking large quantities of your favorite carbonated soda could be as damaging to your teeth as methamphetamine and crack cocaine use. The consumption of illegal drugs and abusive intake of soda can cause similar damage to your mouth through the process of tooth erosion, according to a case study published in a recent issue of General Dentistry, the peer-reviewed clinical journal of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD).

Tooth erosion occurs when acid wears away tooth enamel, which is the glossy, protective outside layer of the tooth. Without the protection of enamel, teeth are more susceptible to developing cavities, as well as becoming sensitive, cracked, and discolored.

The General Dentistry case study compared the damage in three individuals' mouths - an admitted user of methamphetamine, a previous longtime user of cocaine, and an excessive diet soda drinker. Each participant admitted to having poor oral hygiene and not visiting a dentist on a regular basis. Researchers found the same type and severity of damage from tooth erosion in each participant's mouth.

"Each person experienced severe tooth erosion caused by the high acid levels present in their 'drug' of choice - meth, crack, or soda," says Mohamed A. Bassiouny, DMD, MSc, PhD, lead author of the study.

"The citric acid present in both regular and diet soda is known to have a high potential for causing tooth erosion," says Dr. Bassiouny.

Similar to citric acid, the ingredients used in preparing methamphetamine can include extremely corrosive materials, such as battery acid, lantern fuel, and drain cleaner. Crack cocaine is highly acidic in nature, as well.

The individual who abused soda consumed 2 liters of diet soda daily for three to five years. Says Dr. Bassiouny, "The striking similarities found in this study should be a wake-up call to consumers who think that soda - even diet soda - is not harmful to their oral health."

AGD Spokesperson Eugene Antenucci, DDS, FAGD, recommends that his patients minimize their intake of soda and drink more water. Additionally, he advises them to either chew sugar-free gum or rinse the mouth with water following consumption of soda. "Both tactics increase saliva flow, which naturally helps to return the acidity levels in the mouth to normal," he says.

Article via http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/261136.php 

Wednesday, May 29, 2013

Top tips on how to keep your breath fresh

Having great teeth and an attractive smile is always a priority, but often we forget that what we can’t see makes a difference too! Of all the five senses, scent is perhaps the most evocative. Fresh cut grass on a summer afternoon, the aroma of warm bread just out of the oven, a pot of coffee bubbling on the stove… Our sense of smell even plays a part in how we select potential partners and of course, in one of the great human mating rituals: kissing!

But just as good smells can bring back wonderful memories, unpleasant odours are equally powerful. That’s why it’s essential to maintain a thorough dental hygiene routine that not only protects our teeth and gums from disease and decay but also keeps your breath fresh. In addition to regular brushing and flossing, what we eat and drink can also make a big difference.

Here are some top tips for making sure what you eat and drink helps keep your breath fresh:
The tongue test
One of the worst things is discovering your breath is less than fresh from someone else. According to Dr Harold Katz, founder of the California Breath Clinic it’s the bacteria on the tongue rather than the teeth that is often the cause of bad breath. He suggests rather than blowing into cupped hands the way to test is to lick the back of your hand and sniff it once it’s dry.
Hydration, hydration, hydration!

It’s every model’s not-so-secret weapon. It wards away wrinkles and keeps us looking young, but did you know that drinking plenty of fresh water also helps keep our breath fresh? This is because keeping the mouth and tongue hydrated is an essential part of any oral care routine, helping to flush away food debris and bacteria. Green tea is also great because it’s full of flavonoids, which are thought to reduce levels of sulphur compounds that can give rise to bad breath.
Vitamins are vital
Foods rich in Vitamin C such as citrus fruits, berries and melon are great as it helps kill bacteria, though it’s good to mix it up with other, less acidic options such as kale, sweet red pepper and even cauliflower to make sure we’re still kind to our teeth enamel.
The American Dietetic Association reports that Vitamin D also creates an inhospitable environment for bacteria in the mouth, which is one of the reasons why eating yoghurt can help. Yoghurt is also good for the gut, where many breath-related odours can originate.
Helpful herbs

Eating fresh veg with plenty of fibre, aids digestion and also aids the release of saliva, which is effective in keeping bacteria levels low. Herbs and spices also come into play. Fresh coriander, parsley, eucalyptus and spearmint can all be steeped to an infusion or chewed to help release their breath freshening properties.
There’s no doubt that a healthy diet and lifetstyle (yes, smoking is still public enemy number one when it comes to oral healthcare!) are important, but don’t forget the basics either. Keeping up with a thorough flossing and brushing routine, alongside regular trips to the hygienist are also vital.

Article via http://www.richardcasson.com/blog/top-tips-on-how-to-keep-your-breath-fresh/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+DrRichardCasson+%28Dr.+Richard+D.+Casson%29

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Can That Dental Procedure Wait?

Technically, the recession is over. But dentists say that many people are still holding off on dental spending -- either by not going to the dentist at all or putting off the more expensive treatments. Even insurance holders (50 percent of Americans) typically pay more than half of the dental charges for anything other than cleanings and checkups, according to the latest data from Dental Market Research. That means many procedures are still expensive: A dental crown, for instance, generally costs patients approximately $450 out of pocket, even after a 50-percent reimbursement from their insurance carrier.
“Financially, it’s a hard world these days,” says Dr. Shehzad Sheikh, founder and director of Dominion Dental Care in Sterling, Va. “It’s not that people don’t want to get dental work done; it’s just that a little chip on a tooth that’s asymptomatic is a low priority. But it’s a mistake to defer the procedures you really need, because the problem could get worse and more painful -- and end up requiring more extensive and expensive treatment.” Here is a guide to help you figure out what can wait and what can’t.
A Filling (for a chipped filling or tooth)
Can it wait?
Maybe
“If a filling has a chip in it but you don’t have a cavity, or if you have a chipped tooth without any symptoms, you might be able to wait a while for a new filling -- but only your dentist can tell for sure,” says Sheikh. Keep in mind that with a chipped tooth, bacteria are more likely to get stuck in the tooth’s crevice, which can lead to decay.
Regular Cleanings
Can it wait?
No
“You don’t want to miss those twice-a-year hygiene appointments, because small problems could get worse,” says Sheikh. “If your dentist catches something early, it can be a quick and easy fix.” Also keep in mind that fluoride treatments, which aren’t always covered by insurance, are worth the money because they help re-mineralize the teeth and protect them from decay.
Cosmetic Work
Can it wait?
Yes
If you want to bleach your teeth or get veneers to improve your smile, those procedures can wait because they’re not a necessity. Plus, they won’t make a difference to your long-term oral health.
Deep Cleanings
Can it wait?
Maybe
“Sometimes you absolutely have to have scaling and root-cleaning done,” says Sheikh. But in some instances, you might be able to defer the procedure (which can cost more than $1,000 for the entire mouth) if you have regular cleanings every three months instead of every six. “That way, you may be able to get some semblance of control over the gum tissue,” says Sheikh.
A Root Canal
Can it wait?
No
“For a root canal, there aren’t any options: If you don’t do it now, you’ll end up losing the tooth. And if there’s infection, it could spread to other parts of your body,” explains Sheikh.
A Crown for a Serious Chip or Cavity
Can it wait?
No
“The longer you wait, the more prone you are to getting bacteria stuck around the tooth,” which can accelerate the rate of decay, Sheikh warns. In addition, if you need a crown to relieve pain (from a nerve that’s affected, for example), the pain could get worse and you could end up needing a root canal.
Ultimately, you’ll need to see your dentist to determine what can wait and what can’t. “If you come in for cleanings and X-rays, we can get a more realistic picture of what’s going on and can assess which procedures can wait,” says Sheikh. Ultimately, it’s a judgment call better made with your dentist’s advice.


Article via http://www.completelyyou.com/feature/oralcare/dental_procedures_that_can_wait/index.html#.UZ4eRkp6RZN

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Chris Hadfield Brushes His Teeth in Space

Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield has a big Twitter following, now hes a YouTube sensation as well, with "Chris Hadfield Brushes His Teeth in Space" receiving thousands of hits. Hadfield filmed the video aboard the International Space Station in answer to a viewer's question: "Is it challenging to brush your teeth in space without getting toothpaste up your nose?" In the video, Hadfield demonstrates how to maintain oral hygiene in a weightless environment (once you've corralled your floating toothbrush). And no, Hadfield says- toothpaste doesn't get up your nose, since there's no force to push it up there.

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

What is Periodontal Disease?

 
Dr. Sree Bodapati, B.D.S,  M.S. is Omni Dental group's  Periodontist
 
Dr. Bodapati obtained her dental degree from Manipal College of Dental Surgery, India, in 2002 obtained masters in Public Health (Public Health Education) from Western Kentucky University, KY.
Attended the University of Texas Dental Branch at Houston for her Master's and specialist training in Periodontics and Implant dentistry. She has extensive surgical experience in gum surgery, gum grafting, bone grafting, placing implants and other advanced surgical techniques. She also provides various sedation dentistry techniques for anxious patients including enteral (oral) and IV sedation.
Dr. Bodapati, her husband, and a son, currently live in Northwest Austin.
  • Diplomat of the American Board of Periodontology
  • Nitrous Oxide Sedation
  • Enteral (oral) Sedation
  • IV Sedation
  • Accreditation and Certification
Professional Memberships:
  • Member, American Academy of Periodontology (AAP)
  • Member, Greater Houston Society of Periodontists (GHSP)
  • Member, American Dental Association (ADA)
  • Member, Southwest Society of Periodontists (SWSP)
Call Omni Dental Group Today 512-250-5012 or vist our website www.omnidentalgroup.com

Monday, May 13, 2013

The Importance Of Six Month Dental Visits

Why do most dentists want you to come in for a cleaning at least every 6 months?? While it might not seem like it is necessary, these regular and routine dental visits are
Cosmetic Dentist Marielaina Perrone DDS
Regular Dental Visits Are The Key To Good Dental Health
essential  for monitoring and maintaining healthy teeth and gums.Earlier changes can be detected, and they can be addressed. Recent research has also shown how important it is to maintain a healthy mouth for our general health as well. There are many disease states related to poor dental health. These systemic diseases include heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and even, alzheimer’s disease.

The Six Month Dental Visit

What goes on in the dental office is only a small portion of oral health maintenance. Most of the work is done at home through maintaining a good oral hygiene regimen to keep our teeth and gums as clean and healthy as possible. A six month dental visit will include a professional cleaning as well as a thorough dental examination. There are many facets to this appointment. Most people would be surprised at how many different items the dentist and hygienist are actually checking.

What Does The Dental Examination Include?

Your teeth are just one part of a routine, thorough dental examination. Your dentist will evaluate the health of your teeth, your gums, TMJ, and entire inner tissues of the mouth and upper throat. They will also examine your mouth, tongue, lips, and skin for any signs of  disease, like oral cancer or diabetes.

The Head And Neck Examination

Your dentist will start off by looking for symmetry, irregularities, swellings, etc. by:
-Examining your face
-Examining your neck
-Checking your lymph nodes. They are specifically looking for any abnormal swellings or changes to one side and not the other. Also noting the presence of any tenderness.
-Checking your Temperomandibular Joint (TMJ) for any clicking, popping, or irregularities. As we age, the TMJ, like any joint can begin to deteriorate and give us issues. A good dentist will be able to note the presence of TMJ disorder even without symptoms developing.

 The Teeth And Gums Examination

Next, your dentist examine the state of your teeth and gums by:
-Taking x-rays ( radiographs) as needed. Radiographs are generally taken once per year. These radiographs allow the dentist to see some areas that are not visible to the naked eye and are not felt by an instrument. This allows for early detection of tooth decay, as well as determination of infection, or bone loss. Unfortunately, fillings and crowns, depending upon location of breakdown,  still hide many areas of decay or fracturing., Such areas are generally found later due to discomfort, discoloration, or other changes.
-Examining the gum tissue for the presence of periodontal disease, infection, systemic disease. The symptoms can include bleeding, inflammation, recession, redness and irritation, swelling, sloughing tissue, and bone loss around the teeth.
-Checking if any teeth are becoming loose or show any sense of movement.
-Looking at the tissues inside of your mouth. This will include all sides of the tongue, the tonsils, the hard and soft palate, and inside your cheeks and lips. The dentist will look for tissue abnormalities that could be suspected to be oral cancer. Many dentists use the VELscope to detect oral cancer as early as possible. The VELscope is a special light that allows the dentist to see changes in tissue that occur when oral changes, such as cancer, are present.
-Checking the way your teeth fit together, how well you bite, if you clench or grind, signs of sleep apnea.
-Looking for the presence of tooth decay. This is achieved through the use of radiographs and by checking each tooth individually to see if there is any decay visibly, tactilely, or radiographically, present or beginning to form.
-Checking for broken teeth, fracture lines, chipping, wear.
-Checking for older dental restorations that need to be replaced. Generally when an older dental restoration begins to fail there is staining present around the margins where food and bacteria are leaking inside the restoration. Also, the dentist will examine any dental crowns present to check for decay and to see that the fit is still acceptable.
-Evaluating any previous dental appliances you might have. This can include retainers, nightguards, sport guards, dentures or snore/apnea appliances. The dentist will ensure they are still fitting properly and that they are in good condition.

The Dental Cleaning

The dental cleaning is generally completed by the hygienist but some dentists do clean teeth as well. This part includes the following:
Cosmetic Dentist Marielaina Perrone DDS
6 Month Dental Visits For The Whole Family
-Checking the state of your teeth and gums.
-The use of an ultrasonic device to remove the pellicle, plaque, and tartar. The pellicle is a protein layer, much like a cuticle, that allows plaque and bacteria to more easily wick up and under the gum. The hygienist uses both an ultrasonic cleaning tool (called a cavitron) as well as using hand instruments. These tools allow the hygienist to remove substantial plaque and bacteria, and all of the pellicle, from above and below the gumline.
-Polishing your teeth with prophylaxis paste. This paste is slightly abrasive to remove any extrinsic stains that might be present. Polishing also helps to smooth surface roughness so that plaque will not stick as easily.
-Fluoride treatment. This is not just for kids! There are many types of fluoride with many different applications. Some of us are more susceptible to cavities, some of us have white spots, sensitive spots, or stubborn periodontal pockets. Different types of fluorides can help with all of these.
-Reviewing oral hygiene instructions for you to practice at home away, and from the office. This includes recommended brushing and flossing techniques as well as what products might work best for you.

Conclusion

Upon completion of the examination and cleaning, your dentist will be able to advise you of any further treatment needed. If nothing abnormal is found, you will set up your next appointment in 3- 6 month,s knowing you have been doing a great job at home with your dental care. If something is found, you should have it taken care of as soon as possible. You should try not to put off  dental work, as it will get worse over time. Remember, by seeing your dentist every 6 months and following daily oral hygiene practices at home, you have a better chance of keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Being healthy will  save you time, discomfort, and money in the long run. Prevention is always the goal!
© 2013, Marielaina Perrone DDS. All rights reserved. Henderson Cosmetic Dentist
 

Wednesday, May 8, 2013

How do you brush?



Brushing Patterns


Brushing TechniqueHave you ever noticed that when you brush your teeth that you typically start in the same place each time?  Or, are you like many, and are on auto pilot while you brush and perhaps also get other things done like tidy the house, make the bed etc?
I am typically tickled when people tell me they have honestly no idea how they actually brush.  However, if you give them a toothbrush and ask them to demonstrate their technique, they usually go to the same exact spot.  The upper left outside for the right handed folk, and the upper right outside for the left handed folk.  This isn’t a bad or good place to start, but it just seems funny that most people actually start there.  So much of our habits stem from childhood, it makes me curious who actually started this trend of brushing, and why it has remained so popular for the general public.

A Few Tips That Will Help You to Be Really Effective with Your Toothbrush

  • Typically, most people “build up” plaque and tarter on the tongue side (inside) of the lower teeth, if you want to be really effective with your toothbrush, you may find it beneficial to start there.  It also means that when you are rushing to finish up, you have at least gotten the hardest area first
  • Also, “dry brushing” with either a dry tooth brush or one wet with water only can really help you access the areas that tend to be the site for build up, especially the lower front inside area.
  • Lastly, holding your toothbrush with a Vulcan death grip will not get the plaque off any quicker or easier, honestly the only thing that it will do is perhaps brush the tooth or gum away.  Try holding your toothbrush as if it were a paintbrush and go easy on the strokes.  Plaque is soft, gum stimulation is softer and no matter how hard you try, you will not take out your aggression from yesterday’s frustration with your brush, for that you need to roll around with your little one on the ground, take a walk outside or go to a gym and punch a bag.  Those tend to be my personal favorites.

The Truth About Oral “Health”

In reality, oral health isn’t that difficult to achieve and maintain, we are just conditioned in using the same products, tools and techniques that are not the most effective.  The good news is that there is someone who helps you overhaul your routine.  That someone is an oral health coach.  Working with an oral health coach helps you to learn how to effectively become your own daily hygienist and use dental visits for exams, screenings and a big pat on the back for doing such a good job at home.
So take a look when you brush, where do you start?  I dare you to pick up a tool near you and pretend to brush and tell me where you started. Leave a comment and let’s see how many people brush in different ways.

Article via http://blog.naturalgumption.com/2013/04/a-brushing-technique-thatll-save-you-time-and-money/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+NaturalGumption+%28Natural+Gumption%29

Monday, May 6, 2013

Zoom! Teeth Whitening


When you meet someone, your smile is the first thing they see. We have all seen people who smile and laugh, yet cover their mouth because they are not happy with the way their smile looks. A vibrant white smile not only helps make a positive impression, but it makes you feel better about yourself and your appearance.

There are a number of things that cause stained teeth, and it is difficult if not impossible to avoid them all. Aside from the aging process, coffee, tea, soda, red wine, smoking, and certain foods are a few of the common culprits of teeth stains. This is why many people choose to whiten their teeth. With revolutionary Zoom! Whitening, you can turn back the clock and transform your smile.
  Treatment Time Improvements What to Expect
ZOOM! In-Office Whitening 45 minutes Average of 8 shades Immediate results
Long lasting
Less fade-back
Safe and comfortable
Performed by a dental professional
Take Home Trays 7-14 days 6 shades Self-applied Trays,
No immediate results
Whitening Strips/Paint-on Gel 7-30 days 3-4 shades Inconsistent tooth whitening,
No immediate results
Toothpaste 1 month or more 1-2 shades Results fade if you stop using the toothpaste,
Superficial stains only

How does it work?

Unlike other whitening systems, Zoom! Whitening is a simple and short procedure performed by your dentist. Not only is it safe and comfortable, but the results are immediate and long-lasting. One 45-60 minute session of Zoom! Whitening is all it takes to brighten your smile up to eight shades.
  1. Your lips and gums are covered so that only your teeth are exposed.
  2. Your dentist applies the Zoom! whitening gel and uses the specially designed Zoom! light on your teeth. Together, the light and gel gently break up and remove any stains and discoloration.
  3. This is repeated 3-4 times in 15 minute increments.
After the procedure, your dentist may provide you with touch-up trays to maintain your new smile. Then, you are finished and can enjoy a brighter and whiter smile!

Do you live in or around Austin, TX? Make an appointment today for your Zoom! Teeth Whitening. 512-250-5012

Teeth Whitening in Austin, in-office whitening, teeth bleaching - Omni Dental - Austin Dental Group - Omni Dental Group - Dr. Marc Amsili - Dr. Michelle Amsili

Thursday, May 2, 2013

New evidence on how fluoride fights tooth decay

In an advance toward solving a 50-year-old mystery, scientists are reporting new evidence on how the fluoride in drinking water, toothpastes, mouth rinses and other oral-care products prevents tooth decay.

Their report appears in the ACS journal Langumir.
Karin Jacobs and colleagues explain that despite a half-century of scientific research, controversy still exists over exactly how fluoride compounds reduce the risk of tooth decay. That research established long ago that fluoride helps to harden the enamel coating that protects teeth from the acid produced by decay-causing bacteria. Newer studies already found that fluoride penetrates into and hardens a much thinner layer of enamel than previously believed, lending credence to other theories about how fluoride works.
The report describes new evidence that fluoride also works by impacting the adhesion force of bacteria that stick to the teeth and produce the acid that causes cavities. The experiments -- performed on artificial teeth (hydroxyapatite pellets) to enable high-precision analysis techniques -- revealed that fluoride reduces the ability of decay-causing bacteria to stick, so that also on teeth, it is easier to wash away the bacteria by saliva, brushing and other activity.

Article via: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/05/130501112855.htm