Two of the biggest fears when visiting the dentist are pain and radiation from dental X-rays. While sedation dentistry
options have quelled many concerns over pain from dental procedures,
dental X-ray radiation worries still tend to creep up from time to time.
This post will discuss the some of the misconceptions about radiation
from dental X-rays.
How Safe are Dental X-rays?
Very safe. Dental X-rays require very little exposure to radiation
and the regularity for which dental X-rays are needed is so infrequent
that the risk associated with dental X-rays is very, very small. How
often X-rays are performed is determined by your individual risk factors
for decay and gum disease. Even in extreme cases, you still won’t be
exposed to as much radiation as people who live in high altitudes and
experience natural radiation on a regular basis.
Dental X-ray’s Biggest Risk
The biggest risk surrounding dental X-rays is not getting them. Dental
X-rays are performed to help determine hidden tooth decay and gum
problems. The risk to these types of problems going undetected is much
greater than the miniscule effects of an X-ray. The University of
Maryland Medical Center reports that over 75% of adults in the United
States have gum disease in some form, but only 60% are even aware that
they have a problem.
X-ray Equipment Matters
At Silver Screen Dental we use that latest technology when it comes to our equipment.
This enables us to have some of the lowest radiation X-ray equipment
available. Technological advances have improved X-ray equipment
tremendously over the years. With high-speed film and digital X-rays
being used, a patient today will receive up to 80% less radiation
exposure than older generation equipment.
Anyone who wants to ensure that they are as safe as possible when
getting dental X-rays should make sure that the machines used are as
advanced as possible.
Trust Your Dentist
In the end, your dentist should be your trusted advisor when it comes to any kind of concern relating to your dental needs.
Under the care of a highly qualified dentist, dental X-rays are
nothing to be squeamish about. In fact, your decision to get a dental
X-ray may be the most important step in ensuring your current and
continued oral health.
Gum disease, is the process that
begins when bacterial growth in your mouth begins to lead to the corrosion of
your teeth and gums. If left untreated, long-term effects include extensive gum
deterioration, along with early tooth loss.
There are two stages in gum
disease of which include: gingivitis (gum inflammation) followed by
periodontitis (gum disease). Within the stages of gingivitis, the bacteria
in hardened plaque pockets build up causing the gums to become irritated and
swell. When brushing your gums may appear red or may bleed easily. Despite gum
irritation, the roots of your teeth are still firmly in their place.
If left
untreated, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis. During this process, the
gums begin to pull away from the tooth creating pockets where bacteria can
collect and spread. Toxins produced by the bacteria, along with enzymes present
in your body’s natural defense of infections, begin to eat at the bone and
tissue that anchor your tooth. As the process continues, the corrosion spreads
and more gum tissue and bone are damaged. When this happens, teeth are no longer
anchored in place, thus resulting in permanent tooth loss. While tartar
buildup is the leading cause of gum disease, there are additional contributing
factors. Some of these include: illnesses that affect the immune system (HIV,
diabetes), poor lifestyle habits such as smoking or a diet high in sugar, poor
oral hygiene habits or a family history of periodontal disease. Some
symptoms of gum disease include:
Gums that are susceptible to bleeding
Red, swollen, or tender gums
Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
A
receding gum line
Loose or shifting teeth
Some progression of gum
disease may be present in your gums despite not having any symptoms. This is a
reason why regular dental check ups are important in the prevention and
treatment of gum disease. Only a dentist or periodontist will be able to
recognize symptoms of gum disease.
If you live in or around Austin
and you suspect you may be in need of gum
disease treatment or if you have any questions, contact us or fill out an
appointment request form today to schedule a consultation with one of our
periodontists. Our specialists are experts in evaluating your oral health and
will advise you along the appropriate treatment process.
Bad
Breath: Haltosis also known as bad breath is very common. According to
dental studies, about 85% of people with persistent bad breath have a
dental condition that is to blame. Gum disease, cavities, oral cancer, dry
mouth and bacteria on the tongue are some of the dental problems that can
cause bad breath.
Tooth
Decay: Tooth decay is the process that results in a cavity (dental
caries). It occurs when bacteria in your mouth make acids that eat away at
a tooth. If not treated, tooth decay can cause pain, infection, and tooth
loss.
Gum
(periodontal) disease: Gum disease, is the process that begins when
bacterial growth in your mouth begins to lead to the corrosion of your
teeth and gums. If left untreated, long-term effects include extensive gum
deterioration, along with early tooth loss.
Oral
Cancer: Oral Cancer can occur in any part of the mouth; the lips, on the
surface of the tongue, inside of the cheeks, in the tonsils, in the
salivary glands, and the roof or bottom of the mouth. The Oral Cancer
Foundation estimates that over 42,000 people are diagnosed with Oral
Cancer every year and 8,000 die annually, that is roughly 1 person per
hour in a 24 hour day.
Mouth
Sores: Different types of sores can appear anywhere in the mouth. Some
different types of mouth sores are Canker sore, cold sore, herpes simplex,
stomatitis and thrush.
Tooth
Erosion: Acid erosion, also
known as dental erosion, is
the irreversible loss of tooth structure due to chemical dissolution by
acids not of bacterial origin.
Tooth
Sensitivity: Often caused by eating or drinking something hot, cold, sweet
or acidic. Under normal conditions, the underlying dentin of the tooth
(the layer that immediately surrounds the nerve) is covered by the enamel
in the tooth crown, and the gums that surround the tooth. Over time, the
enamel covering can get thinner, thus providing less protection. The gums
can also recede over time, exposing the underlying root surface dentin.
Toothache:
A toothache refers to pain around the teeth or jaws primarily as a result
of a dental condition. In most instances, toothaches are caused by tooth
problems, such as a dental cavity, a cracked tooth, an exposed tooth root,
or gum disease. However, disorders of the jaw joint (temporomandibular
joint) can also cause pain that is referred to as "toothache."
Moreover, sinus infection can mimic a toothache.
Unattractive
Smile: Lots of people are unhappy with their smiles; due to yellowing of the
teeth or missing teeth. Dentures, Implants, Veneers and teeth whitening
are simple fixes to
Saliva is produced in the salivary glands, 98% water, but
contains many important substances, including Antibacterial Compounds, Mucus,
Electrolytes and various enzymes.
Saliva plays an important role in oral health, without
enough saliva, our teeth suffer tremendously. Not only does saliva make it easy
to swallow and begin digesting food right in our mouths, but it has special
neutralising, remineralising and antibacterial qualities. For instance, when
plaque or acid attacks a tooth surface, calcium and phosphate in saliva can
actually repair early damage. This can mean the difference between having
normal healthy teeth or teeth that are decayed or eroded.
Saliva is created when you chew, the harder you chew, the more
saliva is produced. Sucking on a hard candy or cough drop helps produce saliva,
too.
The glands that make saliva are called salivary glands. Salivary
glands sit inside each cheek at the bottom of the mouth near the front teeth by
the jaw bone.
There are six major salivary glands and hundreds of minor ones. Saliva moves
through tubes called salivary ducts. Normally, the body is always making saliva, up to 2 to 4 pints a day.
Usually, the body makes the most saliva in the late afternoon. It makes the
least amount at night. But everyone is different. What doctors consider to be a normal amount of
saliva varies quite a bit. That makes diagnosing saliva problems a bit of a
challenge.
What causes too little saliva?
Medications
and diseases affect how much saliva is produced. If not enough saliva is
produced, the mouth can become dry, this condition is called dry mouth
(xerostomia).
Dry
mouth causes the gums, tongue, and other tissues in the mouth to become
swollen. Germs thrive in this type of setting which leads to bad breath. Dry
mouth also makes the mouth acceptable to developing rapid tooth decay and gum
(periodontal) disease. That's because saliva helps clear food particles from
the teeth, this also helps reduce the risk of cavities. Dry mouth also changes
the taste buds. Dry mouth is common in older adults, although the reasons are
unclear. Diseases that affect the whole body (systemic disorders), poor nutrition,
and the use of certain drugs are thought to play a key role.
Too little saliva and dry mouth can be caused by:
Certain diseases such as HIV/AIDS,
Sjogren's syndrome, Diabetes and Parkinson's
Blockage in one or more tubes
that drain saliva (salivary duct obstruction)
Chemotherapy and radiation therapy
Dehydrarion
"Fight or flight"
stress response
Structural problem with a
salivary duct
Smoking cigarettes
Hundreds of commonly used medicines are known to affect saliva flow and
cause dry mouth, such as:
Antihistamines
Anxiety medicines
Appetite suppressants
Certain types of blood
pressure drugs
Diuretics (water pills)
Most antidepressants
Certain pain medicines
(analgesics)
Always ask your health-care provider about side effects you might have when
taking a medication.
A simple tour through the treatment of choice with expert Dr. Misch-Dietsh.
MIAMI BEACH, FL, June 14, 2013 /Dental PR News/ -- In the US
alone 70 % of the population are missing at least one tooth.
There are different treatment options, yet the treatment of choice today
are dental implants. While there are many advantages to this option,
many people are unsure of what is involved, what they should expect and
if they are a good candidate.
Prosthodontist and clinical professor of Oral Implantology at Temple
University Dr. Misch-Dietsh sheds light into this process and helps
simplify the steps involved.
"Dental implants are a man made replacement for the natural tooth root.
The implant is inserted into the bone and allows a person to return to non removable teeth."
Misch-Dietsh, who has worked as a Prostodontist for 24 years, explains
that the material used is Titanium, which is bio compatible and is
traditionally used for various implants in the body. It has been safely
used since the 1960s due to its reliable reaction with the body.
The first step in considering dental implants is a thorough evaluation,
which includes the patient's medical history and dental examination
complete with X-rays ect. Only THEN the treatment is decided with pros
and cons of different strategies. "A very strong evaluation before
starting treatment is essential and consists of a full intro and extra
oral exam and evaluation of the patients needs and desires."
Misch-Dietsh explains that her office uses the Cone beam computerized
imaging program to get the most detailed view. "This is basically the
Rolls Royce of imaging. Here we look for possible bone atrophy to make
sure we have enough bone volume and quality to ensure adequate support."
Some of the relative factors in deciding if a patient is a good
candidate are age, state of the gums and bone structure, as well as the
overall health of the patient. "For example I just finished working with
a lovely 89 year old lady with great success, so age is not a critical
factor."
In fact, many elderly people choose dental implants to improve quality
of life, not just esthetics. Dr. Misch explains that tooth loss can
often impede speech, the ability to chew and causes many self esteem
issues.
Osteoporosis is another relative contra indication. Significant bone
loss might require an additional step before the implants can be
inserted. In this case Bone grafting is used to rebuild a more favorable
structure.
Smoking has been recognized as a major obstacle for dental implants,
causing inflammation in the mouth and periodontal disease. However, if
the person quits, these effects are fully reversibly and after a short
waiting period we can proceed with the procedure.
"One critical factor to maintaining dental implants is proper care," explains Dr. Misch-Ditsh.
Many people think that because the implant itself is not affected by
bacteria they can loosen dental hygiene. As she points out, quite the
opposite is the case. "The soft tissue (gums) around the implant are not
as resistant, and less able to fight bacteria. There is a need for a
serious regiment! When you brush, you disturb the plaque and it can't
stick. Here it helps to have the proper tools such as an electric or
ultra sonic toothbrush, small brushes for the spaces and of course
dental floss."
She explains that around the implant the tissue is very weak, because
there are not as many fibers as in a natural tooth structure. If you
don' t give it the right defense, you open the road for infection to go
to the bone and further propel bone loss.
So what makes for a good implant?
According to Dr. Misch-Ditsh at the heart of it is sound engineering.
She explains that Prosthodontics uses many of the principles of
mechanical engineering and is in fact Bio mechanical engineering. "For
example if there are not enough beams, the construction will not hold
and that is the same principle for dental implants. We treat patients to
provide a predictable, long-term satisfactory result that will enhance
their quality of life. It is key not to present them with an under
engineered plan, just because it is cheaper and faster. What is needed
is a treatment that is predictable long-term, not a quick fix."
Dr. Misch-Dietsh, who is also an associate editor of the official
publication of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists
Implant Dentistry, feels that in order to provide the most adequate care
one needs to stay current with the most updated technology and
developments. "You find a lot of borderline and not predictable
treatment plans out there, and its important to base treatment on sound
principles."
Many patients considering the pros and cons are trying to evaluate if
this type of treatment would fit their needs and budget. Of course the
apparent disadvantage is the high cost and the time needed. However,
from the moment you are going to loose a tooth or have lost several
teeth, the road leads down hill, and the only way to intervene are
dental implants.
Only implants will maintain the bone and enhance the long-term survival
of the neighboring teeth. What many patients fail to consider is that
once a tooth has been lost, the bone starts deteriorating and the
neighboring teeth are in danger of being lost as well. Dr. Misch-Dietsh
points out that if you look at it short term, cost is high, but after a
certain number of years it will be the more cost effective choice,
because it will ensure the health of the neighboring teeth that would
otherwise require treatment.
According to Dr. Misch-Dietsh' s experience little can offset the
superior feeling of having what feels like one' s own teeth. With this
comes the ease of chewing function, speech, health and maintenance of
the bone and of course the confidence of a beautiful smile. "I don't
have one patient who had the treatment and regretted it. It is a long
term investment that has become the treatment of choice!"
“You will brush your teeth 1,000 times per year or more, and each
time you do, you will ingest some toothpaste. If you think that is not a
problem, think again. Some of the ingredients in many commercial types
of toothpaste are undeniably bad for you.” Dr. Harold Katz, DDS,
Founder of the California Breath Clinics.
Let’s face it, toothpaste is BIG business. I mean, have you looked
at the dental isle in the markets? With one paste claiming great for
sensitivity, one for whitening, one for remineralizing teeth, and even
ones that do a quick all in one, it’s honestly baffling and mind blowing
to try and choose what one is best…..I know I feel that way, and I’m a
hygienist!!
This is a big topic for me. Personally, I feel the least amount of
ingredients in toothpaste the better, I find that rarely do toothpastes
“deal” with the problem; instead they mask the issue at best. Here is a
list of the most frequent dangers in traditional toothpastes.
Ingredients to Avoid in Toothpaste
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (most toothpaste on the market)
Sodium lauryl sulfate is a surfactant, detergent and emulsifier used
in thousands of cosmetic products, as well as in industrial cleaners. A
study appearing in Exogenous Dermatology confirmed SLS to be a very
“corrosive irritant” to the skin—irritation which persisted in research
subjects for 3 weeks.SLS damages the tissues by stripping the skin of its protective oils and moisture.
SLS dries the tissue, and is thought to cause canker sores, and in lab
rats, the ingredient led to depression, diarrhea and death. The U.S.
National Institutes of Health recommends using other ingredients in
toothpaste because of the side effects of sodium lauryl sulfate.
Fluoride
Fluoride is a naturally occurring element found in the earth. It is
found in small amounts in the air, water and in some plants. Just
because it is a naturally occurring component of the environment does
not mean it is good for humans to ingest. A study by B.K. Drummond and
M.E.J. Curzon, published in the 1985 issue of the “Journal of Dental
Research,” on the ingestion of toothpastes by children, found that the
fluoride was absorbed into the body through the mouth from brushing with
fluoride toothpastes. The conclusion was that parents should closely monitor the use of fluoride toothpaste in their children. The EPA considers fluoride a toxin.
Exposure to high levels (30 times the amount found in fluoridated water)
of fluoride can cause skeletal fluorosis causing joint pain, limited
range of joint movement and more brittle bones with a higher rate of
fracture. Much of the concern over fluoride in toothpaste arises from
the combination of higher amounts of fluoride in water, fluoride
products used to protect tooth enamel and naturally occurring fluorides
in plants for an overall increase of total ingested fluoride. If you must use fluoride toothpaste, consider one with sodium fluoride.
Stannous Fluoride (Crest Pro Health)
Stannous fluoride found in pastes can stain teeth, affect your taste
buds, cause gum reactions and may interfere with permanent repair
(remineralization) of the tooth.
Triclosan (Colgate Total)
Triclosan is an anti-microbial and antifungal agent listed as a
pesticide and is used in everything ranging from antibacterial soaps,
deodorants, acne medications, and Colgate Total tooth paste. The
Environmental Protection Agency demanded more research be conducted
because of Triclosan’s negative effects on thyroid and estrogen levels.
Troubling results from animal studies showed that it could reduce levels
of thyroid hormones, which play a key role in regulating metabolism.
Other recent studies suggest that long-term use of products containing Triclosan can increase bacteria’s resistance to antibiotics.
Sorbitol
Sorbitol is used as a preservative and a sweetener in toothpaste. It is a non-nutritive sweetener that can have a laxative effect.
Sorbitol draws water into the large intestine and stimulates bowel
movements, and is thought to be partially responsible for acid reflux.
Tartar Control Toothpastes
Many tartar control toothpastes are acidic, which often leads to increased sensitivity.
They may dissolve some of the buildup, but the acidity pulls calcium
from the teeth which can actually form more buildup. The acidity also
encourages more plaque to grow.
FD&C blue dye No. 2
FD&C blue dye No. 2 is in many toothpastes, but the Center for
Science in the Public Interest warns against it as it might be related
to learning and behavioral issues, severe allergic reactions and other
health problems.
Now it seems as if it is doom and gloom for poor old toothpaste,
but fear not, there are quite a few brands that go out of their way to
create toothpastes that are effective and healthy. What nutritionists
recommend you stick to with food should apply to oral care products as
well.
Look for toothpaste with natural ingredients like essential oils. The Tooth and Gums line has a great antiseptic toothpaste, Vita-Myr has a line of toothpastes that are herbal and contain things like xylitol and CoQ10 for both children and adults. Xylitol is an excellent cavity fighting sweetener used by companies like Vita-Myr, Branam and Squigle. Weleda oral care products are good alternatives as well. Tell us below in the comments: What toothpaste do you use?
If you are missing all of your teeth, an implant-supported full bridge or
full denture can replace them. Dental implants will replace both your lost
natural teeth and some of the roots.
What are the advantages of implant-supported full bridges and
implant-supported dentures over conventional dentures?
Dental implants provide several advantages over other teeth replacement
options. In addition to looking and functioning like natural teeth,
implant-supported full bridges or dentures are designed to be long lasting.
Implant-supported full bridges and dentures also are more comfortable and
stable than conventional dentures, allowing you to retain a more natural biting
and chewing capacity.
In addition, because implant-supported full bridges and dentures will
replace some of your tooth roots, your bone is better preserved. With
conventional dentures, the bone that previously surrounded the tooth roots
begins to resorb (deteriorate). Dental implants integrate with your jawbone,
helping to keep the bone healthy and intact.
In the long term, implants can be more esthetic and easier to maintain than
conventional dentures. The loss of bone that accompanies conventional dentures
leads to recession of the jawbone and a collapsed, unattractive smile.
Conventional dentures make it difficult to eat certain foods.
How will the implants be placed?
First, implants, which looks like screws or cylinders, are placed into your
jaw. Then, over the next two to six months, the implants and the bone are
allowed to bond together to form anchors for your artificial teeth. During this
time, a temporary teeth replacement option can be worn over the implant sites.
Often, a second step of the procedure is necessary to uncover the implants
and attach extensions. These temporary healing caps, along with various
connecting devices that allow multiple crowns to attach to the implants,
complete the foundation on which your new teeth will be placed. Your gums will
be allowed to heal for a couple of weeks following this procedure. There
are some implant systems (one-stage) that do not require this second step.
These systems use an implant which already has the extension piece attached.
Your periodontist will advise you on which system is best for you.
Depending upon the number of implants placed, the connecting device that
will hold your new teeth can be tightened down on the implant, or it may be a
clipped to a bar or a round ball anchor to which a denture snaps on and off.
Finally,
full bridges or full dentures will be created for you and attached to small
metal posts, called abutments, or the connecting device. After a short time,
you will experience restored confidence in your smile and your ability to chew
and speak.
Every case is different, and some of these steps can be combined when
conditions permit. Your dental professional will work with you to determine the
best treatment plan.
Two of the biggest fears when visiting the dentist are pain and radiation from dental X-rays. While sedation dentistry
options have quelled many concerns over pain from dental procedures,
dental X-ray radiation worries still tend to creep up from time to time.
This post will discuss the some of the misconceptions about radiation
from dental X-rays.
