We Won!

2017 Spectrum Award by City Beat News 

Today, Omni Dental Group was awarded the 2017 Spectrum Award by City Beat News! This award is given for excellence in customer service over multiple, consecutive years. In addition, we have earned a 5 star rating through City Beat News. We want to thank our patients for their unwavering loyalty throughout our 23 wonderful years in business!

Check out our award here: https://awards.citybeatnews.com/starpage/view/92558

5 Sneaky Dental Issues That Might Mean Big Trouble

You know all about the importance of brushing your teeth, as well as your kids' teeth. But the benefits aren't limited to your pearly whites. "Many physicians and dentists consider the mouth to be a window into the general health of the patient," says Scott Froum, D.D.S., a board-certified periodontist based in New York City. Our experts Dr. Froum and Sally Cram, D.D.S., a dentist and spokesperson for the American Dental Association, broke down five tooth-, gum- and tongue-related issues that could mean you've got a much bigger problem on your hands:

1. Consistent bad breath

Aside from scaring away friends and family, your not-so-minty-fresh breath could be an early sign of gum disease, says Dr. Cram. Gum disease is particularly sneaky because it doesn't cause pain in its early stages, so most people who have it may not realize it until lots o' damage has already been done. Luckily, it doesn't involve some torturous procedure to reverse. Just put a little more time and effort into brushing and flossing daily.

2. Red, swollen or bleeding gums

If your gums continue to swell or bleed despite your best brushing and flossing efforts, our experts say there's a possibility you could be dealing with diabetes. So, if your pesky gum problems persist and you're noticing other diabetes symptoms like extreme thirst or hunger, fatigue or blurry vision, go see your doc ASAP.

3. Stubborn tongue pain

Obviously if you down hot soup too fast or bite your tongue it's going to be a little sore, but prolonged pain in the tongue or throat (more than two weeks) is one of the most common early signs of oral cancer, says Dr. Cram. Next steps: Monitor those symptoms and look out for any sores, lumps or lesions that won't disappear. Pass that two week mark and to the doctor you go.

4. Spots or sores out of the blue

If clusters of tiny white spots have started popping up around your lower molars — womp, womp — you might have a viral infection in your near future, Dr. Froum says. Called "Koplik spots," these little sores have developed a reputation as a highly predictive sign of measles. Tack on other symptoms like a fever, cough or runny nose, and you may be a few days away from that itchy measles rash. (Alas, you guessed it, a doctor's visit is required.)

5. Hefty tooth discoloration

As tempted as you might be to blame yellow teeth on your coffee addiction, you might be looking at the wrong culprit: If your teeth have turned a shade of black or brown, it could mean you're dealing with some deep-rooted tooth decay, Dr. Froum says. The solve: You might need to get a cavity filled — or (shudder) undergo a root canal treatment.

 

By: Heather Finn, Good Housekeeping
http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/wellness/a40559/common-dental-problems/

 

If you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact Omni Dental Group at one of our three office locations listed below:

North Austin on Hymeadow Drive: (512) 250-5012
Central Austin on Jollyville Road: (512) 346-8424
South Austin on William Cannon: (512) 445-5811

8 Tips for a Brighter Smile

Want a brighter smile? Try these tips!

1. Avoid foods that stain
Avoid foods and beverages that are filled with sugar or are too acidic. If you're not careful, consuming these kinds of foods can damage and stain your teeth. It can be helpful to drink beverages that stain through a straw as well. This helps you circumvent those smile dulling liquids altogether! Brushing your teeth immediately after eating sugary foods may also help prevent staining. Be careful though, if a food is too acidic, you will want to wait at least thirty minutes before brushing your teeth in order to prevent enamel erosion. If you cannot brush your teeth for some reason, opt for swishing water in your mouth which is naturally filled with fluoride. (Water is not a substitution for your daily dental routine).


2. Use dental cleaners
Between brushing, use dental cleaners to minimize the food build-up between your teeth. These brushes are disposable and very handy if you find yourself away from home without a toothbrush. You can also use them to clean the areas between teeth and brace wires if you have braces. They're sold at most grocery stores and can even be found online. 



3. Try toothpaste for sensitive teeth
If your teeth are especially sensitive, try using a toothpaste created specifically for people with sensitive teeth. If you're wondering whether or not you have sensitive teeth, here's a simple way to tell: Do your teeth feel uncomfortable when they are exposed to extreme hot and cold temperatures? If so, be sure to ask your dentist for help and additional information. 

4. Regular dental checkups
This one might seem obvious, but it is so important! Be sure to visit your dentist regularly to have your teeth inspected and cleaned. Without regular dental checkups, you run the risk of facing disease and other problems in the future. Routine dental visits help prevent the advancement of such diseases and are always a good idea. 

5. Avoid chewing on hard foods
Ice cubes pose a particular threat to the safety of teeth. Never chew on ice. You could crack or chip your teeth! Be cautious when eating popcorn, nuts or any other tough to chew food. If you believe that your teeth are chipped or cracked, see a dentist immediately to prevent pain or even bacteria growth in the cracked tooth. 



6. Brush your teeth properly
Brush your teeth from the gum line moving towards the center of your mouth. This will help get rid of food bits that hide under your gums. Scrubbing side to side is always good, but don't forget to brush with an up and down motion as well. If your gums or mouth bleed while brushing, be sure to meet with a dentist or periodontist. Bleeding gums are often a sign of gum disease, which is a major issue when left untreated. 


7. Swirl that Mouthwash
One common misunderstanding regarding oral health is that brushing is all you need for a healthy mouth. Mouthwash is often neglected in daily dental practice, but it's an essential step towards your brighter smile. Mouth wash cleans, disinfects, and reaches places your toothbrush simply cannot. Rinse twice per day when you brush those pearly whites.




8. Drink your Milk! 
In addition to providing a good source of calcium, dairy has shown to help your teeth fight cavities. If you're lactose intolerant or simply dislike dairy products, don't worry! Dark leafy greens like kale or collards, broccoli, tofu, and even almonds are all excellent natural sources of calcium.



If you have any questions regarding the health of your teeth or simply want to see a doctor, call one of our three convenient locations to set up an appointment. We are here to provide excellent service in a friendly environment.  

North location on Hymeadow Drive: (512) 250-5012
Central location on Jollyville Road: (512) 346-8424
South location on William Cannon Drive: (512) 445-5811

X-Rays and the Dentist

If you've been to the dentist recently, then you have most likely had an X-ray done. While they aren't taken during every visit, they are very helpful for establishing a patient's oral health as well as predicting which areas need to be focused on. Today we are going to give a brief overview of what exactly they are and why they are necessary. 

1.  What are X-rays? 

In 1895, Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen was working in his lab conducting research when he accidentally discovered X-rays. Since then, science and technology have evolved to use X-rays in a beneficial manner. During an exam, a patient is exposed to short bursts of radiation. This allows the doctor to view teeth in a more thorough manner than an examination. Some people are nervous about getting X-rays, however, it is important to note that the doses of radiation are too minute to cause adverse effects. In fact, during a dental X-ray, patients are only exposed to the same amount of radiation as a short airplane flight. 

2. Do I have to get X-rays?

Whether you need to look for fractures in bone or simply to check in on teeth, X-rays are the best way to do it. Dentists rely on this technology because it allows them to perceive problems before the naked eye is able see them. Some examples include, but are not limited to: periodontal disease, bone infections, hard to see tooth decay, and even some tumors. X-rays are an important part of preventative care and are nothing to be afraid of.

3. What if I'm pregnant?
This is always a great question to ask! It is best to consult your physician before exposing yourself to small quantities of radiation. Informing your dentist of this is an absolute necessity, but there is no need to forgo X-rays altogether. With pregnant patients, a thyroid collar and a leaded apron are used to prevent radiation exposure.

Source: Mouth Healthy by the American Dental Association

If you have questions concerning X-rays and the health of your teeth, feel free to call one of our three offices to schedule a consult. We are here to address any of your concerns and to provide you with a stress-free dental experience.

North location on Hymeadow Drive: (512) 250-5012  
Central location on Jollyville Road: (512) 346-8424  
South location on William Cannon Drive: (512) 445-5811

Happy Valentine's Day!

Roses are red

Violets are blue

Watch out for gummy bears

and jaw breakers, too

Valentine's Day will be here in nearly a week! Whether you're spending the day with a loved one, having a fun party with your friends, or simply relaxing before the work week, you are sure to encounter a few yummy desserts and candies. While everyone enjoys something sweet once and again, it is always good to consider how they impact your health. Here are a few tips for keeping your mouth in good shape during Valentine's Day.

1. Not all candy is created equal. 

• Some candies are worse than others. Tough candy that stays in your mouth for a prolonged period of time such a jawbreakers and suckers can lead to cavities or even chipped teeth. The best option for this type of sweet is to opt for a sugar-free alternative. This way, you are satisfying your sweet tooth without the risk of tooth decay. 
• Also, be on the lookout for chewy candies like gummy bears, taffy, and caramel. Even though these treats are sure to satisfy, they are stubborn and tend to stick to your teeth. This makes these chewy confections more difficult to break down with saliva.  

2. Select your beverages with care.

• While they might be packed full of vitamin C, it is best to avoid drinks that have too much citrus like orange grapefruit juice. The acid from these beverages can erode away your enamel and weaken your teeth.  
• If you are wanting a soda with your meal, keep in mind that its carbonation and sugar can also damage your enamel. Sugar-free sodas are a better alternative, but water is always the best option. 
• Even though most people enjoy a nice cup of coffee in the morning, the caffeine coupled with its dark color can dry out your mouth and stain your teeth. Consume it in moderation and try drinking with a straw to avoid some of those stains. 
• If you find yourself wanting to a cold drink, try refrigerating it instead of adding ice. Chewing ice can lead to dental emergencies and isn't the safest way to go. 

3. Look out for your pearly whites.   

The best way to prevent cavities and other dental health diseases is to take care of your teeth. Remember to brush your teeth twice per day and floss once. If you decide to eat or drink anything too acidic, try waiting at least thirty minutes before brushing your teeth.



Source: Mouth Healthy by the American Dentist Association

Our aim is to treat all patients with respect and provide a stress-free experience for the whole family. If you would like to schedule a cleaning after eating Valentine's Day sweets or have any questions, feel free to call one of our three convenient locations.

North location on Hymeadow Drive: (512) 250-5012  
Central location on Jollyville Road: (512) 346-8424  
South location on William Cannon Drive: (512) 445-5811

Dental Insurance Coverage

Your employer, management, or union has purchased dental insurance coverage from a selection of plans offered by an insurance company or broker. Each insurance company offers many different plans. 

What is covered?
The type of dental benefits that are covered relate to the dollar amount spent on the benefit package. Generally, the more money spent on a plan, the more services are covered. Most dental insurance covers only 50% to 80% of the cost of the treatment. Major services (crowns, bridges, etc.), which are the most expensive dental procedures, are usually only covered at a 50% rate. For example, some dental benefit packages will not cover the fees for porcelain (tooth-colored material) crowns on teeth that are not visible when you talk or smile; they will only pay for a metal crown. Under this type of plan, you must pay the full amount of the cost of the porcelain on those teeth. According to insurance companies, fillings in front teeth have both functional use and cosmetic components. They will pay for the functional part but not the full amount for the cosmetic restorations.

Who is responsible for payment?
The fees charged for dental treatment reflect the many different parts of a particular procedure or procedures. Treatment for your particular needs may or may not fall within the limits set by your particular dental plan. Many dental procedures may not even be listed in your insurance's procedure/payment schedule. If your dental procedure falls into this category, you may not receive any insurance reimbursement for that procedure. You are ultimately responsible for paying the entire fee for an accepted dental treatment, regardless of your insurance coverage.

Choosing Treatment Options
Our goal through your examination, diagnosis, and treatment phases is to provide you with the best possible oral health. We do not allow the insurance company to tell us how to treat you. We recommend to you those treatments that we believe you need and we will discuss alternative plans with you. Whether or not the recommended treatment is a covered dental benefit is between you and your employer and the insurance carrier.

Submitting the Claim
We are happy to help you receive the maximum benefits you are allowed from your dental coverage. In order for us to submit your insurance claim, we will need an insurance form with your portion completed and signed. We deal with dental insurance companies on a daily basis; therefore, we have a great deal of experience submitting these claims to insurance carriers. We take great care in submitting claims properly the first time. 

There are three things we cannot do: 
1) Alter the date of treatment; 
2) Submit a claim for more than the actual fee; 
3) Submit a claim for procedures that have not been performed. 

Because it is not at all uncommon for the insurance carriers to make a mistake, we would prefer to submit the claims ourselves, and then verify proper payment. Insurance carriers may respond to requests for payment of preauthorized treatment in as little as a week or as long as 45 days. Please be patient; we have no control over the post office or the speed with which the insurance carrier processes your claim.

Our office cannot negotiate with your insurance company for reimbursement of dental expenses. Only the purchaser of the plan (your employer) can negotiate better coverage. If you would like better or more coverage, you will need to talk with your plan purchaser about the features you want in your dental plan.

If you have any questions about your dental insurance coverage, please feel free to ask us. 

Remineralization Device Could Soon Come to Market

A new device being developed by dental researchers at King's College London could soon bring to market an electronic tool that would encourage teeth to remineralize. 

Demineralization and remineralization have a crucial impact on the hardness and strength of tooth enamel.

What is demineralization?
Poor hygiene, bad brushing techniques, as well an inappropriate diet can lead to tooth decay due to changed acid levels in the oral cavity. Demineralization occurs at a low pH (acidic) when the oral environment is UNDERsaturated with mineral ions. Acids demineralize the tooth structure by dissolving calcium, phosphorus, etc. The enamel is dissolved by these organic acids (lactic and acetic acids) that are produced by the cellular action of plaque bacteria in the presence of dietary carbohydrates. This enamel erosion leads to dental cavities. 

Demineralized surfaces are porous and adherent, thus becoming favorable to bacteria growth that causes dental cavities and decay. In other words, enamel demineralization equals the beginning of cavity formation. Often, as a result of smoothness reduction, the tooth surface may suffer from superficial pigmentation, which can be visually unpleasant and impossible to remove with the toothbrush. 

Demineralized teeth are very sensitive to diverse stimuli: sensitive to hot and cold foods and drinks, as well as sensitive to the touch; brushing can be uncomfortable, even painful, and the patient can be tempted to skip brushing or cut it short, which is usually fatal for his or her teeth. When demineralized hypersensitive teeth are not properly cleaned, severe dental cavities affect the entire dental structure. Treatment becomes difficult. Patients need to understand that this condition appears as a result of an infection that can easily get out of control if hygiene is neglected.

What is remineralization?
Remineralization allows the loss of calcium, phosphate, and fluoride ions to be replaced. 

How do dentists fix cavities now?

With 2.3 billion affected annually, dental caries is one of the most common preventable diseases globally. Tooth decay normally develops in several stages, starting as a microscopic defect where minerals leach out of tooth. Dentists normally treat established caries in a tooth by drilling to remove the decay and filling the tooth with a material such as amalgam or composite resin. 

What can this tool do?
Reminova Ltd, a company that emerged from King's College London Dental Innovation and Translation Centre, takes a different approach - one that rebuilds the tooth and heals it without the need for drills, needles, or amalgam. By accelerating the natural process by which calcium and phosphate minerals re-enter the tooth to repair a defect, the device boosts the tooth's natural repair process.

How would the tool work?

Electric currents already used to check pulp/nerve of a tooth

The two-step method developed by Reminova first prepares the damaged part of the enamel outer layer of the tooth and then uses a tiny electric current to "push" minerals into the tooth to repair the damaged site. The defect is remineralized in a painless process that requires no drills, no injections, and no filling materials. Electric currents are already used by dentists to check the pulp or nerve of a tooth; the new device uses a far smaller current than that currently used on patients and cannot be felt by the patient. The technique, known as Electrically Accelerated and Enhanced Remineralization (EAER), could be brought to market within 3 years.

What is the company?
Reminova Ltd will be based in Perth, Scotland, to benefit from the strong life sciences and dentistry base. It will commercialize the work of Professor Nigel Pitts and Dr. Chris Longbottom, based in the Dental Institute at King's College London. With a combined 80 years' experience in dentistry, they have previously brought dental devices to market to detect tooth decay. The company, formed in collaboration with Innova Partnerships, is currently seeking private investment to develop their remineralization device. 

Who are the designers?
Kit Malthouse, chair of MedCity and London's deputy mayor for business and enterprise, commented, "It's brilliant to see the really creative research taking place at King's making its way out of the lab so quickly and being turned into a new device that has the potential to make a real difference to the dental health and patient experience of people with tooth decay."

Sources:
https://wwww.dentalaegis.com/news.php?id=15411
http://www.dentfix.ro/en/2011/10/demineralization/ 
http://www.dentistryiq.com/articles/wdj/print/volume-4/issue-9/focus-on-orthodontics/demineralization-and-remineralization-the-battle-to-keep-teeth-strong-and-healthy.html