My Dental Health Companion

Anti-Aging Dental Procedures? Yep!

2012-01-21T12:57:00.000-05:00

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DENTAL NEWS
Your dentist's office is increasingly becoming a place where people visit to get anti-aging procedures performed. Falling under the term "cosmetic dentistry", there are three major procedures for removing yellowish or brownish hue from one's teeth which, according to most cosmetic dentists anyway, can make you look up to 10 years younger.

Nonetheless, there's no question that having a whiter and brighter smile will make someone look and probably feel younger and more vibrant. To that point, here are the three most common anti-aging procedures that your dentist can perform in their office:

Anti-Aging Dental Procedure #1: Dental Veneers
Did you know that if your teeth are crooked and/or misshaped, you will look several years older than you actually are? This is because if the tooth structure is lost, the shape of your lips will be transformed, and so will the entire lower structure of your face. With dental veneers, you can look even up to 10 years younger! The veneers are made of porcelain and they are meant to transform the shape and color of your teeth.

Moreover, if your dentist is truly an expert in cosmetic dental procedures, by re-building the shape of your teeth with the dental veneers the'll also make those fine wrinkles around your mouth disappear.

Anti-Aging Dental Procedure #2: Professional Teeth Whitening
Even if your teeth are relatively healthy, they might loose their bright and white structure if you drink large amounts of coffee and/more tea on a daily basis. Although there are teeth whitening kits that you can use at home, nothing compares to a professional teeth whitening procedure by a dentist. Your teeth can become 5 to 6 shades lighter after only one hour of professional treatment.

Before performing this procedure, dentists advise their patients to use toothpaste for sensitive teeth about one week before the treatment as a way of preventing their teeth from feeling extremely sensitive after the whitening treatment is finished. In addition, is advisable to purchase a good teeth whitening toothpaste that you will use at home, in order to maintain your pearly white smile for long months to come.

Anti-Aging Dental Procedure #3: Dermal Fillers
Cosmetic dentists are experts who can make those naso-labial folds disappear with the help of dermal fillers. After the application of the veneers is done, the dentist will use the dermal filer in order to smooth out the appearance of your skin between your lips and nose. This way, your skin will look smooth and healthy, and this will being forward even more your beautiful teeth and smile.

More Dental Visits = Less Diabetes Hospitalization

2012-01-16T11:22:00.000-05:00

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DENTAL NEWS
The Journal of the American Dental Association recently reported that patients with diabetes who received regular dental care were roughly 33% less likely to visit an emergency room or be hospitalized because of that disease.

The study appeared in the January 2012 issue is the latest among several that have associated dental care with better systemic health. Similar findings have emerged for cardiovascular disease, preterm birth, and other disorders.

Dental/Diabetes Debate Not Over
However, the report's lead author David Mosen, PhD, MPH, an affiliate investigator at Kaiser Permanente Northwest in Portland, Oregon, cautioned that the retrospective study could not prove that dental care directly reduced the patients' risk for a diabetic emergency. "We don't know if it's because of the dental care, or if it's just because people with good dental care also have good general healthcare," he said.

Nevertheless, Dr. Mosen said the researchers did use statistical methods to adjust for such factors as visits to primary care physicians, and still found a strong association with dental visits. Although the association does not prove causality, the relationship of diabetes to dental care is worth further investigation, said Dr. Mosen. In separate research, some evidence is emerging that inflammation from periodontal disease and affects glycemic control, he added.

Who's Afraid of the Big Bad Dentist?

2012-01-07T11:09:00.000-05:00

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DENTAL NEWS
If the prospect of a painful dental experience makes you cringe, fear not because the good news is that the Consumer Reports' survey found that serious dental pain is rare. Perhaps even more surprising is that the survey found that those who put off needed dental treatment were less satisfied with the outcome than those who bit the bullet.

"Not going to your dental appointments may lead to more extensive and more costly dental treatment in the long run", said Nancy Metcalf of Consumer Reports'. "Only 5% of people who had a root canal said the procedure was severely painful, and only 6% of people who had a tooth pulled. So if you're worried about pain, that's really not a good reason to avoid the dentist."

Fearing The High Cost Of Dental Care
However, the cost of dental care was a top concern as it was the most frequent reason cited for delaying dental treatment while the second biggest concern was that their insurance wouldn't cover said treatment. Nevertheless, the survey found good news on that front as well; "Our survey found that you can negotiate for a better price. Among our readers who tried it for costly procedures - like an implant or a full denture - more than half were successful at getting the price reduced" said Metcalf.

You can also reduce your dental bills by doing some research before making a dental. Websites like FairHealthConsumer.org and HealthCareBlueBook.com claim to give the typical cost of both dental and medical procedures in your area.

Additionally, there are other ways to save one dental care. "Many people don't realize that community health centers often provide dental care for fees based on your ability to pay," says Nancy Metcalf. "And it turns out, people who brush twice a day and floss every day were more likely to be happy with their smiles than those who don't."

Our Top Dental Story of 2011

2011-12-31T13:47:00.000-05:00

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DENTAL NEWS
As this is our blog's last post of 2011, we thought it would be interesting to review what we consider to be the biggest dental story of the year. However, unlike previous years, 2011's top story doesn't involve dental health but rather a ruling by the Federal Trade Commission which could pave the way down the road for more non-dentists performing dental health services.

Although every state has its own dental board that licenses and regulates both dentists and dental practices in that state, in 2011 the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) concluded the North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners restricted trade by trying to stop nondentists from providing tooth-whitening services.

This ruling angered dentists throughout the country as they see the application of bleaching products on teeth as the practice of dentistry. The FTC ruling was triggered by the North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners sending letters to various beauty salons in the state telling them that they were illegally practicing dentistry and ordering them to stop.

Although the FTC's ruling was directed at North Carolina, it's decision will affect how other states regulate tooth whitening.

Typical Oral Health Problems For Women

2011-12-24T11:40:00.000-05:00

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DENTAL NEWS
Very often there is a direct correlation between a woman's oral health and an underlying medical condition she may be experiencing. Below is some of the more common examples of this type of health issue.

Dry Mouth
Dry mouth, also called xerostomia, when someone doesn't have enough saliva in the mouth making it hard to eat, swallow, taste, and speak. If left untreated, dry mouth can lead to cavities because saliva helps break down bits of food and helps stop acid from forming plaque on the teeth.

For women who are pregnant, dry mouth, thirst and dehydration are considered early signs of the increases in blood volume, urination volumes, and fluid demands triggered by the hormonal fluctuations occurring during pregnancy. Other common causes for dry mouth include medicine side effects, diabetes, Sjogren’s syndrome, Parkinson’s disease and/or a blocked salivary glands.

Treatment for dry mouth depends on the cause and can range from medicines to diet changes. To minimize the dryness, suck on sugarless candy, avoid smoking, avoid drinking alcohol, and use a humidifier at night when sleeping, especially during the drier winter months.

Canker Soars
Canker sores, which can also result from hormonal changes occurring during pregnancy, can be a symptom of certain nutritional deficiencies and/or underlying medical conditions, such as anxiety, depression, taste problems, use of blood pressure medicines such as ACE inhibitors, and/or fungal infections. Other possible causes of canker sores include fatigue, stress, hormones, allergies, Crohn’s disease, and/or Celiac disease.

Canker sores are small ulcers inside the mouth. Women are more likely than men to have issues with recurring canker sores. Fortunately, canker sores generally do not require treatment and usually heal on their own in one to three weeks. Large canker sores (e.g., a half inch or larger) may, however, require medicine for treatment.
In an effort to minimize pain from canker sores, it’s best to avoid hot and/or spicy foods, use salt water or mild mouthwashes, and use over-the-counter pain medicines.

Burning Mouth
Burning mouth is a condition that involves a burning feeling in the mouth and/or the tongue. While the cause of burning mouth is unknown, it is relatively common when women experience the hormonal changes associated with menopause.

Losing Teeth
Tooth loss can be a very serious oral health problem. And, osteoporosis, a disease causing bones to become less dense over time, can be the culprit. Jaws, for example, are often referred to as the anchor for the teeth. Accordingly, a weakened jaw makes losing teeth becomes more and more likely. For example, the risk of tooth loss is three times greater for women with osteoporosis than for women who do not have the disease.

Women are encouraged to take calcium and vitamin D, exercise, eat right, and do all of the things necessary to help prevent osteoporosis. This is an important tool in preventing tooth loss and maintaining overall oral health.

"Open Up And Say Ahhh. Now Rinse."

2011-12-17T11:52:00.002-05:00

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DENTAL NEWS
The American Journal of Public Health recently published a report that finds 20 million more Americans see a dentist each year then visit a general physician suggesting that dental offices could be used in the near future to screen the public for chronic health problems.

In other words, the next time you visit the dentist, don't be surprised if they check out more than your teeth. This is because by asking a few questions or administering quick health testthis rigid patients, dentists could identify those who are at risk for diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, substance abuse and even obesity.

"The dental office might be a really good venue for identifying or screening for diseases. The dentist, in turn, could refer patients to a primary care provider for further workup," said Shiela Strauss, a professor at New York University College of Nursing who was lead author of the study.

Early Screenings = Early Treatment
But getting dentists to screen patients won't be easy. Andrei Barasch, chairman of dental medicine at Winthrop University Hospital in New York, acknowledged there are barriers to bringing screening programs to dental offices as dental education has changed little over the past decades, and instructors are hesitant to add courses that seem off-topic to oral health. Moreover, insurance companies don't reimburse dentists for the extra time they spend screening patients' general health.

"Getting dentists to screen patients for such health conditions might not be easy. "The dental world and the medical world are separated by a fairly large chasm right now," said Barasch. "Both these tendencies need to change."

However, both Barasch and Strauss believe that this chasm might be close in the near future. "This paper will be a boon to our case, simply because it's evidence as to how much help dentists could provide. We're talking about millions of people here," Barasch said. "Diseases could be detected earlier; patients could be brought into the medical system earlier."

Dentist Cleanings = Less Heart Disease

2011-12-10T12:08:00.000-05:00

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DENTAL NEWS
Scientists in Taiwan found that people who had their teeth cleaned by a dentist (i.e. tooth scaling) reduced their chances of having a heart attack by 24% and their chance of stroke by 13% than those who never had their teeth professionally cleaned. The results of the study were presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2011 meeting.

The study included more than 51,000 adults who had received at least one full or partial tooth scaling and a similar number of people matched with gender and health conditions who had no tooth scaling. Scientists who did the study consider regular tooth scaling to be at least twice or more in two years while occasional tooth scaling was once or less in two years.

"Protection from heart disease and stroke was more pronounced in participants who got tooth scaling at least once a year," said Emily (Zu-Yin) Chen, M.D., cardiology fellow at the Veterans General Hospital in Taipei, Taiwan.

In a separate study presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2011 meeting, researchers found that the value of markers for gum disease predict heart attack, congestive heart failure and stroke in different ways and to different degrees. Senior consultant of the study, Anders Holmlund, D.D.S., Ph.D. Centre for Research and Development of the County Council of Gävleborg in Sweden, studied about 8,000 people with periodontal disease and found the following:

* People with fewer than 21 teeth has 69% higher risk of heart attack compared to those with the most teeth
* People with the least amount of teeth had a 2.5 increased risk of congestive heart failure compared to those with the most teeth.
* People with highest incidence of gum bleeding had a 2.1 increased risk of stroke compared to those with the lowest incidence.

Dry Mouth More Common Than Ever

2011-11-27T12:05:00.000-05:00

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DENTAL NEWS
According to the journal Gerodontology, researchers in Sweden found that dry mouth has become more prevalent, especially in women over age 50.

The conclusions of the report work product of the 19-year-old study where researchers found that in every age group, dry mouth was more common in women than in men. The authors speculate that the higher prevalence of dry mouth in women may be the result of decreased saliva production in the mouth following menopause. Dry mouth occurred more often as people got older, and more at night than during the day.

People who had burning mouth syndrome were 17 times as likely to report dry mouth. People with burning mouth syndrome feel as if their mouths have been scalded. The syndrome can affect all parts of the mouth. Burning mouth syndrome is a rare disorder that is more common in older women. This syndrome has been associated with diabetes and nutritional deficiencies.

Gaining Weight Gains Gum Disease

2011-11-19T11:36:00.000-05:00

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DENTAL NEWS
The Journal of Periodontology recently reported that the conclusions of a pilot study done at the Case Western Reserve School of Dental Medicine which found that the less fat cells the human body has the better at fighting gum disease it becomes.

Nabil Bissada, chair of the department of periodontics at Case Western Reserve School of Dental Medicine and lead author of the study, suggests that this is because fat cells trigger inflammation of the gums. Inflammation that continues to brew in the body can have harmful effects over time, and inflammation from gum disease can erode bone and cause tooth loss. It can also cause breaks in the gums where harmful oral bacteria can enter the blood stream.

This study raises two hypotheses about why the surgery group improved. The first theory is that excessive fat cells (adipocytes) secrete more cytokines (such as TNF and IL-6), which make insulin more resistant to doing its function. As a result, more accumulation of sugar in the blood (hyperglycemia) occurs. Losing weight, therefore, makes insulin less resistant and improves the diabetic status which in turn helps in the response to periodontal treatment.

The other theory relates to the presence of the leptin hormone that regulates appetite. Leptin plays a role in regulating metabolism and has been linked to inflammation by increasing the production of cytokines and the -C-reactive protein, which is also linked to inflammation. Bissada said leptin production was reduced after bariatric surgery and may be one explanation for the better outcomes in the periodontal treatment.

Completion Time For Porcelain Veneers

2011-11-12T12:06:00.000-05:00

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DENTAL NEWS
Palm Beach Florida dentist Dr. Mitchell Josephs, DDS writes a regular column in the local newspaper where he answers questions from patients. Below is the latest question and it's answer;

Q: I have been considering veneers and would like them to be finished in time for Christmas and New Year’s. Is this possible? - Mariah in Boynton, FL

A: I get this question every year in mid November. Basically, it’s the old lyric; "All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth" but I think the request works for Chanukah and Ramadan as well. For a typical full smile, ten-tooth upper case veneers procedure, expect three separate visits spread out over four weeks.

Visit #1: Preliminary impressions and photos for the lab with all design notes and any photos of yourself from your past or models cut out from magazines.

Visit #2: The teeth are made numb, shaped with diamond drills, impressed (with a digital impression scanner called iTero, or traditional “goop” impressions, depending on your doctor’s choice), followed by placement of temporary acrylic veneers.

Visit #3: Temporaries are photographed and impressed to send to the lab with final design notes and shade choice. Three weeks from this point, your veneers should be back from the lab for insertion.

Holistic Dentistry? Really?

2011-11-05T11:20:00.001-04:00

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DENTAL NEWS
Alternative medicine (i.e. acupuncture, therapeutic massage, etc.) is a rapidly growing industry in the United States and at least one dental practice in San Diego says it has expanded into dentistry as well.

The Center for Natural Dentistry (CND) is a holistic dental office which claims that it integrates natural, whole body wellness procedures with traditional or science-based dental methods to deliver a more effective dental care experience to its patients.

"Many of our patients have tried traditional medicine with unsatisfying results. We offer an alternative look - a look into how their mouth affects their overall health - with some amazing results," said Marvin Pantangco, D.D.S., of the CND.

What Is Holistic Dentistry and How Does It Differ
"Being a holistic dental office, we never use mercury fillings," says Dr. Pantangco (a.k.a. "Dr. Marvin"), "but it goes beyond that. We never perform root canals, we follow a strict extraction protocol to prevent bone infection, we use non-surgical methods to treat gum disease, we are extremely cautious when removing mercury fillings, and we never use metals in our restorations. We also test our patients for biocompatibility before using any new materials... we are holistic dentists in every sense of the word."

In addition, the CND recently added ozone therapy to the practice's alternative dental offerings. Sometimes referred to as oxygen therapy, the CND claims that ozone therapy not only disinfects the area being treated but can increase blood flow, enhance the immune response, and provide a more rapid healing experience to the patient. The CND most often uses ozone therapy as an alternative method of fighting cavities and periodontal disease.

Winning New Patients Over To The 'Holistic Side'
The CND claims that its holistic dentistry practitioners work without the use of toxic chemicals, expensive surgeries, and needless drilling. To that end as well as to educate new patients to the concept of holistic dentistry, the CND offers a free 30-minute phone consultation (1-760-536-1199) to anyone who would like to see if holistic dentistry is right for them or to patients who have long-standing, systemic dental issues and are looking for a new way of being treated.

"At the Center for Natural Dentistry, many of our patients have tried traditional medicine with unsatisfying results. We offer an alternative look -- a look into how their mouth affects their overall health -- with some amazing results," says Dr. Pantangco.

Gingivitis Increases Kidney Problems For The Elderly

2011-10-29T12:11:00.000-04:00

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DENTAL NEWS
The American Journal of Kidney Diseases has published the results of a study that found that older people who suffer from periodontal disease (a.k.a. gingivitis) twice as likely to develop kidney problems.

The study was conducted by researchers in Japan who followed 317 people, each 75 years old, over a two-year period and found that those with with inflammation of the gums were twice as likely to develop kidney problem as the rest of the people in the study. Inflamed gums are the most common condition associated with gingivitis and is the body's reaction to bacteria found in plaque that builds up on the below the gum line.

Previous studies have also linked periodontal disease with kidney disease. A 2010 study focused on people with both conditions and found that periodontal treatment also improved kidney disease symptoms.

This report comes on the heels of another report by researchers at Duke, Wake Forest and the University of North Carolina (Greensboro) which found that fewer adult Americans were toothless in 2008 than in 1999, due to both increase awareness about dental health as well as better access to dental care.

Sugar-Free Maybe Bad For Good Dental Health

2011-10-22T12:02:00.000-04:00

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DENTAL NEWS
The British Dental Journal recently published a report from a team of US researchers which found that many sugar-free foods, beverages and confectionary products often contain additives that are as harmful to one's dental health as sugar.

"The public's perception is that (sugar-free foods) will never cause any dental harm. However, that may be a misconception when those products contain acidic additives," says study author Sok-Ja Janket, Research Associate Professor at Boston University's Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine. "Acids dissolve the calcium in the enamel and cause erosion. Whether sugar-free or sugar-containing, if the products contain acidic additives, we are delivering these acids on a platter."

The researchers stress that it's not the substitutes themselves (a.k.a. polyols) such as onesorbitol and xylitol that cause the damage, but rather the additional ingredients that give many of these products their fruity or sour taste. They recommend that consumers check the list of ingredients to see if they contain acids including, but not limited to, ascorbic, tartaric, mallic or phosphoric; all of which cause your mouth's pH levels to fall below the critical stage where dental erosion can occur.

Not All Bad News
However, it should be pointed out here that not all sugar-free foods are bad for your teeth. Researchers involved in the above study concluding that if there's an absence of these additives, and they are consumed in moderation, consumers can avoid much of the negative impact.

"Let's not throw the baby out with the bath water," says Janket. "Most sugar-free products are tooth-friendly. Only those flavoured with acidic additives are potentially dangerous as far as dental erosion is concerned. Like everything else, the public should be informed and read the ingredients."

Is The American Dental System In Decline?

2011-10-15T12:53:00.000-04:00

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DENTAL NEWS
Two separate recent incidents involving the dental care delivery system in America bring into question whether the American system really delivers the best quality dental care in the world like it is generally believed.

The first incident was the death of an unemployed man from Ohio who died from a tooth infection because he couldn't afford antibiotics, something which highlights how many poor and working class people are not able to get basic dental care because they don't have or cannot afford dental insurance.

Unfortunately this is not the only example of a person dying due to lack of proper dental care as back in 2007 a 12-year-old boy passed away from an untreated bacterial tooth infection that eventually spread to the boy's brain.

The second incident highlighting a possible decline in the American dental care system was when a man from West Orange, NJ tried to set fire to a dentist office in nearby Bloomfield because he was unhappy about a dental procedure he underwent five years earlier. The the man suspected of the crime, Gray Harewood, is being held in Essex County Jail and the case is under investigation by the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office.

But the list of American dental system failures doesn't stop there. According to the California Dental Hygienists' Association, almost 80% of nursing home patients and 20% of American children don't receive any professional dental care whatsoever yet there is little if any public outcry, despite the fact that tooth decay is five times more common than asthma among US children aged 5 to 17. This lack of dental care is not without cost to the American taxpayer, however, as it'sI estimated that we spend over $33 million a year to treat patients in hospital emergency rooms of periodontal disease related illnesses.

"People are hurting financially throughout our state and nation," said California Dental Hygienists' Association president Lisa Okamoto, "Unfortunately, many people still view oral care as an optional cosmetic service even though the mouth is the mirror of health and disease and the entry point for a lot of bacteria into our body."

Okamoto said that oral health and dental hygiene are now considered essential components of overall patient care provided by nurses, physicians, hygienists and dentists because oral health not only reflects general health conditions but may worsen or complicate existing conditions - pregnancy, respiratory, cardiovascular, coronary, diabetes, immune disorders and other inflammatory disease.

Plaque-Fighting Mushroom Mouthwash? Holy Shiitake!

2011-10-08T12:55:00.001-04:00

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DENTAL NEWS
The September issue of the Journal of Biomedicine and Biotechnology reported the results from a recent study which found that using a mouth rinse made from shiitake mushrooms significantly reduced plaque and gum inflammation in test subjects.

Researchers from Italy's University of Verona did the study because previous laboratory experiments using this type of mushroom extract suggested that it controled the growth of oral bacteria. Mushroom extracts also appear to kill oral bacteria and make it more difficult for the bacteria to stick to teeth, even though the researchers did not find that the mushroom rinse destroyed bacteria that commonly occur in dental plaque. However, researchers did find evidence that the mushroom rinse did slow the growth of some bacteria responsible for the progression of gum disease to periodontal disease.

The study involved 90 volunteers who were asked not to brush your teeth for 18 days but instead thoroughly rinse their mouths out twice daily with either the shiitake mushroom mouthwash, a water-based mouth rinse containing no active ingredients and regular Listerine mouthwash. Researchers found that after only 12 days, the subjects rinsing with the mushroom rinse had significantly less plaque than those in the water-based rinse group did, and significantly less gum inflammation than people in both the Listerine or the water-based rinse groups.

New Alternative To Dentures?

2011-10-01T12:37:00.000-04:00

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DENTAL NEWS
The Journal of Oral Implantology is reporting a new alternative treatment to dentures that can be put in the same day of surgery. Called the "All-on-Four", this new type of treatment for teeth removal uses four implants attached using four screws that support a fixed prosthesis.

The success of the All-on-Four treatment over dentures is judged not only by its comfort and usability for the patient, but also by its longevity. To that point, the Journal of Oral Implantology cited the results of a 29-month study that used the All-on-Four implant design which found that it had a higher survival rate (92% to 99.6%) then regular implants did.

The need for a denture alternative is driven by clinical studies which have found that patients with dentures have reported only a marginal improvement in the quality of their life as they routinely complain of discomfort, poor stability and difficulty eating. Dental professionals have long seen the need to offer their patients a long-term replacement option for natural teeth that allows for a higher quality of life then dentures have traditionally offered.

With the ever-increasing number of senior citizens in the United States, it is projected that 37 million Americans will need dentures by the year 2020, which is why this latest advancement in dental implants may prove to be an important alternative to traditional denture therapy.

Do-It-Yourself Dental Care Increasing

2011-09-23T16:14:00.000-04:00

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DENTAL NEWS
With the tough economic timeswe live in, people are increasingly practicing dentistry on themselves -- a.k.a. do-it-yourself dental -- and end up doing more damage to their teeth than doing nothing would've done. All too often this results in these do-it-yourselfers spending far more money as they're forced to seek treatment from a real dentist to correct problems resulting from their "do-it-yourself dental care" attempts.

"Self dental care is on the rise" says Jenny Englerth, executive director of Family First Health clinics in the southern part of Pennsylvania. "People go online and try to find out how to do their own dental work. Unfortunately, people (are looking) to save money and decline to pay for optional dental coverage through their employers' health insurance", said Englerth.

During economic hard times, dental care is one of the first things cut from family budgets and the Family First Health dentists have seen a marked increase in patients who required corrective dental work because they tried repairing chipped teeth or filling cavities on their own to save money, reported Englerth. Similarly, many patients are waiting until infections in their mouths cause intolerable pain or their rotted teeth have to be immediately pulled.

"Our dentists are certainly seeing more people going without dental care and needed restoration work after many years (of neglecting their teeth)," said Englerth.

Last year, Family First clinics offered discounted dental services to nearly 6,000 uninsured patients, said Englerth. The clinics had nearly 19,000 combined dental office visits last year. In 2011, however, Family First Health has experienced a 30% increase in uninsured people seeking dental treatment at their clinics.

Southern Charm Not Including Dental Hygiene These Days

2011-09-16T15:48:00.000-04:00

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DENTAL NEWS
Residents who live in the southern part of the US and was likely to visit the dentist according to a recent Gallup poll. In fact, 9 of the bottom 10 states for dental visits were in the South with an average of less than 56% of its residents visiting the dentist in the past 12 months compared to the national average of 65%, the latter which hasn't changed in the past few years.

Poor dental health has been linked to variety of serious medical problems including heart disease, stroke, atherosclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes and even preterm (i.e. premature) births.

Massachusetts and Connecticut led all US states in dental visits with 75% of residents in both states reporting that they visited the dentist in the last 12 months while Mississippi (51.9%) and Louisiana (54.8%) were at the bottom of the list. This disparity is likely the result of poverty as more than 72% of residents of the top 10 states for dental visits have health insurance compared to an average insurance rate of 56% for the bottom 10 states as lack of health insurance is frequently an indicator of poverty.

Despite the hard economic times facing the nation, many Americans who haven't seen the dentist in a while are now returning, not because they're in any better position to afford it but because their teeth hurt too much. According to The St. Petersburg Times, this has resulted in these patients paying more for dental care because dentists have to perform more complex procedures after years of neglect.

How Often Should You Get Dental X-Rays?

2011-09-03T12:58:00.000-04:00

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DENTAL NEWS
Dental x-rays are perhaps the most valuable tool a dentist has in their battle to keep your teeth and gums healthy. But no matter how good one's dental insurance coverage is, no one can afford to get x-rays every week to say nothing of the inconvenience such a regiment would incur.

So exactly how often should X-rays be done on your teeth? The answer depends on your dental history as some people, like those with chronic dental problems, may need X-rays every six months while others who visit the dentist regularly and have excellent oral health may need X-rays only every three years or so.

To see if you or your family members should get regular dental X-rays (i.e. every 6-12 months), follow these guidelines as they are based on information from both the American Dental Association and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Those who need frequent X-rays are;

* Children & Teenagers - Children and teens at high risk of decay and those who have a history of many cavities, may need X-rays every six months or every year, depending on age. X-rays also help to keep track of tooth development.

* Adults With Many Fillings, Crowns, Bridges or Other Restorations - X-rays help the dentist find decay beneath your fillings and crowns or in new locations.

* People With Periodontal (Gum) Disease - X-rays can reveal signs of bone loss. If this has happened, then periodontal or gum surgery may be needed.

* People With Dry Mouth (Xerostomia) - Saliva helps keep your mouth and teeth healthy by regulating the acid levels (pH) in the mouth. In a dry mouth, the pH decreases. This causes the minerals in the teeth to break down, resulting in more cavities. Many medicines can cause dry mouth. It also can be a result of cancer treatment or a long-term disease.

* Smokers - Smoking increases the risk of periodontal disease (as well as many, many other of health-related problems)

If you or a loved one falls into any of the five above categories, just remember that catching a dental problem while it's small and still in the early stages can prevent major (and costly) dental problems later on.

Do Probiotics Fight Tooth Decay In Kids?

2011-08-27T13:29:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
The European Archives of Paediatric Dentistry has reported that a study done in India found that probiotics might help combat tooth decay in children.

However, the authors of the Indian study say that additional research is necessary to determine if probiotics are definitively beneficial in reducing the amount of cavities in children as previous studies examining whether probiotics prevent tooth decay have had mixed results.

The Indian researchers studied 150 children between the ages of 7 and 14 who did not have any tooth decay. The tested children were asked to mix a powder with water and swish around their mouth before swallowing for two weeks. The children were then tested for levels of Streptococcus mutans (the species of bacteria that causes cavities) and were found to have significantly less amounts of S. mutans compared with those children that received a non-probiotic powder.

emPOWER-ing Young Dental Protégés

2011-08-20T11:58:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
Dr. Preet Sahota, DDS -- a dentist in Fremont, CA -- has launched a unique mentoring program to encourage children to study science, health and dentistry. Called emPOWER One, the program sponsors monthly learning and motivational study sessions and is available to patients of Dr. Preet's family practice and other young people in the Bay area who have an interest in science and/or dentistry.

Children Using Dental Instruments?
The program allows young dental patients, from four years through teens, to use dental instruments and includes hands-on activities and talks that are intended to be fun and interesting, not just dry lectures about science and dentistry. While it may sound unusual for a young child to be using a dental instrument, that is a big part of the program. "Generally," says Dr. Sahota, "with every well check routine visit, each kid or young adult is engaged in dialogue and is allowed to try out our instruments under supervision. Lasers, CAD cams, impression doughs and plaster are very stimulating."

Playing Dental Assistant
Older children in the program also get the opportunity to be a dental assistant, whether they intend to become a dental professional or not. "We would like for dentistry to be on the list of things our patients would 'love' to do. We hope that our passion for it will be infectious! Work and play should have no distinction" Dr. Sahota explained.

For more information on the emPOWER one mentoring program, contact Smile Matters at (510) 744-1414.

Sugar-Free Lollipops Fight Tooth Decay

2011-08-13T11:25:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
The European Academy of Pediatric Dentistry just published a study that strongly suggests sugar-free lollipops containing a licorice root extract significantly reduced the bacteria that causes tooth decay, especially in pre-school children with a higher than normal risk of tooth decay.

The study analyzed 66 preschool students ages 2-5 who were enrolled in the Head Start Program in Lansing, Michigan and gave each student a sugar-free lollipop for 10 minutes twice daily for three weeks.

"This study is important not only for dental caries prevention research, but also demonstrates the feasibility of a classroom protocol using a unique delivery system suitable for young children," said Jacqueline Tallman, R.D.H., B.S., M.P.A., principal investigator of the study. "Early prevention is key for lifetime oral health and effective innovative protocols are needed."

The study was funded by the Research and Data Institute of the affiliated companies of Delta Dental of Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Tennessee, Kentucky, New Mexico and North Carolina.

Depression Linked To Poor Oral Health

2011-08-06T13:11:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
The Journal of Psychosomatic Research recently published a study which found that homeless people with tooth decay or missing teeth are more prone to depression than those with healthy teeth. Roughly 850 homeless people were surveyed by Scottish researchers to see if bad dental health was an early indicator of depression.

The researchers suggest that providing dental care to homeless individuals can improve their mental and physical functioning and help them to become more self-competent and improve their ability to integrate into society. In addition, homeless people with decayed and missing teeth also tended to have lower quality of life and more dental anxiety. Both of these could lead to depression, said the authors of the study.

To date, only one other research paper has been published on dental health in the homeless. That study, done in northern Ireland in 2007, found that nearly half of homeless men were self-conscious or ashamed about the way their teeth looked. That study also found that 1 in 3 homeless men had mental health issues, including depression but the Scottish study is the first to link poor oral health with risk of depression.

FYI, the Journal of Psychosomatic Research is the official journal of the European Association for Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatics and affiliated with the external link International College of Psychosomatic Medicine.

More Medicaid Money Means More Child Checkups

2011-07-30T13:00:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
The more Medicaid pays dentists, the more at-risk children visit a dentist says a study appearing in a recent issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.

The study looked at nationwide data for the years 2000 through 2008. Researchers focused on Medicaid payment levels to dentists. They also looked at whether children had visited a dentist in the last 6 months. For each $10 increase in Medicaid payments, children on Medicaid were about 4% more likely to have a recent dental visit.

Nevertheless, children on Medicaid are less likely than those with private insurance to have regular dental visits. Only about 55% of children on Medicaid see a dentist regularly. This compares with 68% of children who have private insurance. Medicaid appears better than no insurance, however, as only 27% of uninsured children saw a dentist regularly. Among children ages 2 to 8, about 25% have untreated tooth decay.

Medicaid covers about 1 in 4 U.S children. Dentists and physicians do not have to accept Medicaid. About 73% of pediatric dentists participate in the Medicaid program. Nearly all pediatricians (93%) participate. Low payment for services provided is often cited as the principal reason for the lower level of dentist participation. Other studies have linked higher payments with increased dentist participation.

Although Medicaid is a federal program, it also receives state funding. So Medicaid payments to dentists vary by state. In 2008, payments to dentists for a child preventive visit ranged from less than $20 to about $60. The average payment, all states combined, was about $30 per child visit.

Sports Drinks Cause Cavities In Kids

2011-07-21T16:40:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has issued a warning to parents about sports and energy drink consumption being bad for children because ingredients in these flavored drinks that can contribute to tooth decay and lead to a variety of other health problems.

The AAP findings, published in the June issue of Pediatrics, stated that dental erosion from sports and energy drinks are 'of concern' in children and adolescents, and pointed to a common ingredient 'citric acid' that is 'highly erosive' because it continues to eat away at tooth enamel even after a drink containing citric acid has been consumed.

The high carbohydrate content of these drinks can also hasten tooth decay, which affects five times more children than asthma and has been called a 'silent epidemic' by the U.S. Surgeon General. Tooth decay is twice as prevalent among children from low-income families than among their more affluent peers, raising concerns that the increase in sports drink consumption will disproportionately affect at-risk children.

"Many of the children we treat are suffering from rampant tooth decay," said Dr. Anupama Rao Tate, a CSHM Advisory Board Member and Director of Oral Health Advocacy at Children’s National Medical Center. "Soda and sugary juice are already major obstacles in the fight for dental health in our communities. We must raise awareness among parents that certain sports and energy drinks have the potential to become another barrier between their children and they healthy smiles they deserve."

Chief among the AAP’s recommendations was that water, not sports or energy drinks, should be aggressively promoted as the principal source of hydration for children and adolescents.

Robotic Dental Patients; WTF!

2011-07-08T11:20:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
To say it's difficult to find human volunteers willing to be worked on by first-year dental students just might be the understatement of the year. Just imagine nervous, unsteady hands using needle-sharp probes and drills working on an area in your mouth that's been causing you excruciating pain? No thanks.

Thankfully, robotic scientists at Japan's Showa University say they have developed the perfect dental patient; a life-like dental training robot that blinks and flinches just like a human dental patient would. Named "Showa Hanako 2", this robotic entity is slated to go on sale in Japan in late 2011 for an as yet unspecified amount of money.

But Showa Hanako 2's worth goes beyond the dental chair. After the check-up is finished the robot is not only capable of storing and analyzing each student's performance, but able to provide feedback through a computer link.

First developed 10 years ago by a research team, this eerily life-like robot is capable of sneezing, head shaking, coughing, mimicking gagging and snapping a mouth shut like a real patient's involuntary reflex. This dentist "trainee tool" can even hold down simple conversations as it is equipped with voice recognition technology.

But perhaps the most convincing element of the robot's appearence is the skin, made of silicone. Designers consulted with Japan's top sex doll manufacturer, Orient Industry, to help make Showa Hanako 2's skin, tongue and mouth.

Gum Disease Linked To Erectile Dysfunction

2011-07-02T13:08:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
In a recent study carried out on 70 male subjects showed a correlation between gum disease and the ability to achieve an erection. The data indicates that as the severity of erectile dysfunction increased, so did the prevalence of chronic periodontitis (gum disease). Overall, more than four out of five men (81.8 per cent) with severe erectile dysfunction had gum disease. In comparison, in cases of mild erectile dysfunction, the incidence of gum disease was less than two in five men.

Chief Executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, Dr Nigel Carter, believes the stigma attached to the subject could be forcing men up and down the country to turn a blind eye on their oral health. "To associate gum disease, the major preventable cause of tooth loss in adults, with such a taboo subject amongst males is not something that should be taken lightly" said Dr. Carter. "It is a well-known fact that gum disease has been linked to many conditions in the past that can have a detrimental effect on your general health such as heart disease and diabetes."

The best way to combat oral health problems is to think prevention and develop a good routine to keep your teeth and gums healthy at home. By brushing for two minutes twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste, reducing the frequency of how often you have sugary foods and drinks and by visiting your dentist regularly, you stand a far greater chance of having good oral health.

Black/White Dental Care Disparities Still Persist In The US

2011-06-18T11:43:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
According to a recent study published in the online edition of the American Journal of Public Health, black Americans receive poorer dental care than white Americans, even when they have some dental insurance coverage.

Researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health and the College of Dental Medicine, surveyed 118 black American adults living in New York City who had recent oral health symptoms and found that despite 75% of of them having at least some type of dental insurance coverage, this was largely limited to Medicaid (50%) rather than private coverage (21%) or other types of dental insurance (4%).

In addition, the study found that those surveyed indicated several insurance-related dental care problems such as insufficient coverage for needed treatments, inability to find a dentist who accepts their insurance, and having to wait usually long for their coverage to take effect.

Dr. Eric Schrimshaw, assistant professor of Sociomedical Sciences at the Mailman School, described it this way; "For the 25% of respondents who reported having no dental insurance coverage, the costs of dental care and the lack of insurance coverage were consistently noted as critical barriers to obtaining quality dental treatment of their dental symptoms. Even among those who had some dental insurance - such as Medicaid - it was often not enough to eliminate the obstacles to obtaining needed dental treatment."

The authors also report that even when participants were able to see a dentist with the limited insurance they had or while uninsured, many believed that because of their lack of private insurance they received a poorer quality of care than did others.

Breakthrough For Sufferers of Dry Mouth

2011-06-12T10:54:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
Researchers at the University of Louisville announced this past week that they are one step closer to helping millions of people who suffer from dry mouth because their salivary glands no longer work or because of disease. The salivary glands are essential for lubrication, defense and beginning digestion in the mouth.

The scientific discovery could form the basis for advanced therapies for patients whose salivary glands are damaged or no longer function due to radiation therapy, prescription drugs or Sjogren's Syndrome - a disorder often defined by its two most common symptoms - dry eyes and a dry mouth.

The scientific finding of Douglas Darling, PhD, professor, Department of Oral Health and Rehabilitation, UofL School of Dentistry, and his team identified a protein sorting mechanism used by the salivary gland. The National Institutes of Health supported study published on-line first this past week in the Journal of Dental Research.

Dental Phobia Tips For Dentists

2011-06-06T15:20:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
In an effort to better combat the condition known as Dental Phobia (a.k.a. the fear of being treated by a dentist), the International Organization for Dental Phobia Treatment (IODPT) has developed a special website for both patients and dental professionals alike that provides information on ways to improve the treatment of this condition.

In a nutshell, IODPT has identified five key areas dentists should be aware of so as to better empathize with and treat their patients who suffer from this condition. These areas are:

(1) Explanation Of All Procedures
If you have a question about a procedure, your dentist should answer it. By asking questions, you can empower yourself with knowledge to alleviate fear of the unknown.

(2) Comfortable & Friendly Environment
Your dentist should do everything to ensure that you are greeted by a smiling, friendly staff in a quiet, orderly environment.

(3) Assurance Of Minimal Or No Pain
You won't have to worry about feeling pain or discomfort during treatment. Newer techniques and better anesthetics make this possible.

(4) Sense Of Control
A simple signaling system, such as raising your left hand can be used to stop your dentist for any reason.

(5) Relaxation Techniques
A relaxed body promotes a clear and relaxed mind. The dental environment, in and of itself, can often induce phobias. Your dentist should design his or her office to calm you, and can also have specific well-established techniques to help you relax during your visit. These can include deep breathing, distractions like television, iPods, virtual reality glasses, and aromatherapy.

Travel Tips For Maintaining Good Dental Care

2011-05-27T14:41:00.001-04:00

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Dental News
Some people treat their vacations as if they're leaving their teeth at home by forgetting that maintaining good oral health habits during their trip will lead to cleaner and whiter teeth, giving them more confidence when being in vacation-related videos and photographs.

No matter whether you have all your original teeth or used dentures, below is a list of oral health tips from DentureLiving.com to make it easier to maintain your good smile during your next vacation.

1. When making the preparations for your trip, venture down the travel aisle at your local convenience store to pick up some travel-sized toothpaste, floss and mouthwash containers. It might also be a good idea to buy a toothbrush you can dedicate specifically to travel, along with a travel container to avoid making a mess in your luggage.

2. Be sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist before your vacation if you haven't made it to your regular checkup or have a toothache that's been causing you trouble. The last thing you want is to have your vacation sidelined due to an emergency visit to the dentist.

3. You may find yourself eating more candy or drinking more soda than usual, especially if you are on a road trip spending lots of time in your car. If possible, consume in moderation. Take extra care to brush and floss thoroughly and regularly if you do consume a lot of sugary foods and beverages.

If you're a denture user, there are also several things you can take to help prevent problems that could knock you off your your vacation itinerary:

1. Always pack backup dentures in case your primary dentures break or get lost. That way, you can deal with any replacements or repairs when you get home.

2. Be sure to pack the appropriate denture-care products for your trip. Pack a cleanser like Fixodent Denture Cleanser Plus Scope to maintain fresh breath throughout your vacation or one with whitening abilities like Fixodent Denture Cleanser Advanced Whitening to maintain your bright smile while you're meeting new people. Many cleansers and adhesives also come in travel-sized containers.

3. Bring a container that you can fill with warm water to clean your dentures. This can help eliminate hassles if the hotel where you are staying doesn't have the appropriate-sized container.

New Website For Easy Comparison of ADA Approved Dental Products

2011-05-21T11:21:00.001-04:00

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Dental News
The American Dental Association (ADA) has launched it's "ADA Seal of Acceptance Web area" webpage it claims is designed to allow consumers and dental professionals to easily review detailed information on all ADA Accepted products.

The new Web area lets visitors look at product photos and read a question-and-answer section on how products earn the ADA Seal of Acceptance and what it means. The new Web area also allows consumers to easily print individual product information sheets and product comparison pages for reference when purchasing oral care products.

"The ADA designed the new ADA Seal of Acceptance Web area to provide information that will be helpful to the public in selecting dental products and to dentists when discussing products with their patients," said Dr. Ada Cooper, an ADA Consumer Advisor spokesperson and a practicing dentist in New York City.

The new ADA Web area includes product photos and read-a-question-and-answer section on how products earn the ADA Seal of Acceptance and what it means. The new Web area also allows consumers to easily print individual product information sheets and product comparison pages for reference when purchasing oral care products.

Women's Dental Hygiene Better Then Mens

2011-05-13T14:38:00.004-04:00

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Dental News
New research published in the April 2011 edition of Journal of Periodontology says that women are far better at maintaining healthy teeth and gums because they are more proactive than men are. The study included over 800 participants between the ages of 18 and 19. Participants were given an oral examination as well as asked to complete a questionnaire concerning lifestyle, dental knowledge, dental attitude and oral health behaviors which found the following;

    * Women are 26% more likely to floss on a daily basis than men are
    * 74% of women would be embarrassed by a missing tooth compared to only 57% of men
    * Women are almost twice as likely to have received a regular dental check-up in the past year
    * Women are almost twice as likely to notice missing teeth on another person than men

Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the gum tissue and other structures supporting the teeth. Left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and has been linked to chronic inflammatory diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.

"Never has it been more important to ensure the health of your teeth and gums. You cannot be healthy unless you are periodontally healthy," says Donald S. Clem, DDS, a periodontist in private practice in Fullerton, California and President of the American Academy of Periodontology.

Easy Tips To Fight Bad Breath

2011-05-06T11:27:00.002-04:00

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Dental News
Even though every dental professionals (practically) in existence says that good oral health care means brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing regularly, a recent article in USA Today suggests that these dental care habits alone probably aren't sufficient to combat halitosis (i.e. bad breath).

While the American Dental Association (ADA) says that people with persistent bad breath where nothing they do seems to work should see the dentist as their chronic bad breath may lead to serious health threats (i.e. respiratory tract infections or diabetes), the most people only need to practice a few simple techniques to ensure that their breath will not 'stink to high heaven'.

    (1) Drink Plenty Of Water. Halitosis-producing oral bacteria thrive in dry environments but consuming non-caffeinated beverages frequently throughout the day washes this bacteria away as well as stimulates the production of saliva, which in turn maintains a moist environment in your mouth.

    (2) Brush Your Tongue. A little known fact is that brushing your time while you clean your teeth activates your body's natural halitosis-fighting defenses. Many people ignore brushing their tongue, which allows food residue and bacteria to build up on its surface.

    (3) Avoid Using Mouthwash. Many commercially available mouthwashes actually cause more halitosis-producing bacteria then they kill us they does alcohol than that which tends to dry out the mouth. While some mouthwashes do help kill stench-causing bacteria, those who experience chronic bad breath should seriously consider consulting with their dentist on which mouthwash and they should use... or even if they should use mouthwash at all.

Two Types of Halitosis
There are actually two types of halitosis; physiological and pathological. Physiological halitosis can be caused by what you eat (i.e. onions or garlic) as the result of chemical processes generated by anaerobic bacteria in the mouth or throat. Pathological halitosis is more serious as it's the result of some type of functional disorder or disease and therefore can pose a serious risk to your health.

Does Dentist Gender & Experience Matter?

2011-04-29T11:37:00.002-04:00

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Dental News
A study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association (April 2011) has found there are some differences in treatment a patient receives depending upon whether the dentist is male or female as well as if the dentist has been in practice for awhile or a recent graduate of dental school. However, the differences are small and probably won't impact the quality dental care someone receives all that much.

The study included 393 male and 73 female dentists in four different countries (United States, Norway, Sweden and Denmark) were surveyed on several aspects of the care they provided. While the study found the both male and female dentists were the same when he came to assessing risk for tooth decay and spent equal amounts of time on fillings and root canals, there were some differences;

* Male dentists were more likely to do in-office fluoride treatments for children while female dentists were more likely to recommend at-home fluoride treatments for children

* Female dentists were more likely than males to offer any type of fluoride treatment to adults, although female dentists who had been practicing dentistry the longest were the least likely to offer fluoride to adults

* Male dentists tended to recommend filling a tooth in response to tooth decay while female dentists were a bit more conservative than male dentist by instead recommending preventive treatment

* Female dentists tended to treat more children than male dentists

In addition to differences based on gender, researchers found there were differences based on the experience of the dentist as well as recent dental school graduates were less likely to recommend fillings for early decay on chewing surfaces of teethcommentary regardless of whether a dentist was male or female.

Dental Appointment Reminders: Voice Vs Text

2011-04-22T11:45:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
Remember when you got a postcard in the mail to remind you of your next dental appointment? Well, those days are fast disappearing as technology is making it faster, easier and less expensive for dental offices to remind patients of the appointment.

The only question left to resolve is whether voice messages or text messages work better, and that debate might have been partially answered by a recent study done at the University of Washington, Seattle which found that voice messages are twice as effective as dental appointment reminders when it comes to getting children to show up at their nextt dental appointment.

Them study, which appeared in the April issue of the Journal of the American Dental Association, involved 318 parents of children who were patients at the university's dental clinic and found that 18% of parents who received text messages had missed their kid's appointments but only 18% of parents who received text messages missed their kid's appointment.

The study also found for that in both the text message and the voice message groups, younger parents were more likely to have their kids miss their dental appointments than older parents were.

Dental Sales Tactics & Unethical Practices

2011-04-15T11:36:00.001-04:00

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Dental News
Ever felt pressured by your dentist (or dental specialist) into having expensive dental work done? It turns out you may have been right as a lawsuit recently brought by Pennsylvania's Attorney General office against Allcare Dental & Dentures (a now defunct chain of dental offices spanning 13 states) suggests that this type of deceptive sales tactic was routinely used and even encouraged by corporate higher-ups.

The lawsuit alleges that Allcare used high-pressure sales tactics to get consumers to buy expensive dental procedures, only to not provide those services. The lawsuit also alleges that the dental chain forced customers to pay in advance for their dental work. Allcare then acted as a credit-services organization, applying for credit on their behalf to pay for the services but failed to safeguard or escrow the money as required by state law.

In addition, Allcare is also accused of engaging in unfair and deceptive business practices, as well as violating a March 2009 settlement with the Attorney General's Office over complaints about --among other things-- its corporate practices of encouraging expensive dental work when less costly procedures would be routinely performed by other dentists.

How Your Lungs Benefit From Regular Flossing

2011-04-09T12:04:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
It has long been known that regularly flossing your teeth is one of the best ways to prevent gum disease, but now it appears that it also helps to prevent lung problems such as pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Emerging research is showing that bacteria from gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis can easily slip into your airways when you inhale. Once this bacteria has entered the bloodstream, warm and moist conditions in your lungs act as a breeding ground for bacteria which leads to inflammation; inflammation can obstruct blood flow, which prevents oxygen from traveling to the brain and this can result in a heart attack or stroke.

Even though the most effective way to remove this type of bacteria from your mouth is to brush twice a day, daily flossing is also required due to the fact that brushing can not always reach all areas of your mouth, resulting in plaque development along the gum line.

Reasons Why Dental Insurance Sux So Much

2011-04-01T15:36:00.001-04:00

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Dental News
Recently, the Huffington Post ran an article by New York cosmetic dentist Thomas P. Connelly, D.D.S. titled, "The Trouble With Dental Insurance" in which he attempted to explain why so many patients and dentists alike feel that the current dental insurance system is lousy (i.e. too many procedures not covered, co-pays are too high, overly strict limitations, etc.).

In his article, Dr. Connelly believes that there are many reasons why dental insurance in this country sux so much, but basically it comes down to for the fact that dental insurance simply isn't profitable enough for insurance companies. As evidence, Dr. Connelly sites these four factors he feels are responsible for the poor level of dental coverage being offered by insurers these days;

1. The "use factor". In plain terms, dental insurance almost always gets used, oftentimes, right up to the max. This is not so with other types of insurance. In fact, the entire profit model of insurance is based on a certain percentage of people not using it. Contributing to this is the built-in "twice yearly" cleanings and such that are recommended.

2. Pre-existing conditions. Many dental problems are often ignored for years. So the feeling is that many people will "save up" their problems until they get dental insurance. Then voilà; three root canals, two crowns, and a bridge. This happens so often that many dental insurance providers have a waiting period of one year for any major work (and lower caps on maximum coverage). I can tell you from personal experience that I have seen countless patients with a mouthful of problems that really should have been handled earlier, but weren't due to lack of funds.

3. Dental problems are more commonplace than many other health problems. There are very, very few people out there with no need for dental work at all. This relates to my first point -- use. Almost all people with dental insurance will use it to a certain degree every year. Conversely, looking at typical health insurance as a comparison, a great number of healthy people will often go years without seeing a doctor.

4. The total cost of dental work is lower than most medical procedures, making it difficult for an insurance company to charge a high enough rate to offset the "people using it" factor, but also for the rate to be low enough to be "worth it" to the typical consumer. Put another way, you have health insurance not only for routine doctor visits, but for "catastrophic" events. After all, an operation/hospital stay could bankrupt you. Thus, even at high premiums, health insurance is a must have for most people whereas with dental insurance, the most you would probably ever have to spend in a year on necessary work might be $5,000.

So, it seems that we're all sort of stuck with a system that patients, dentists and insurance companies don't like. I wish I could say that the discount dental plans I sell are the ultimate answer to this dilemma, but the truth is they simply provide discounts --not actual insurance coverage-- on all types of dental work, making it extremely difficult for working-class families to afford even the most basic of dental care.

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Five White Lies of Cosmetic Dentistry

2011-03-25T15:05:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
AOL's website for money and financial matters --DailyFinance.com-- recently reported on five secrets of the cosmetic dentistry industry which is estimated at $2.75 billion in the US alone, with the most common cosmetic-related dental procedure being veneers estimated by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) at over $371 million.

DailyFinance.com suggested that before you plunk down cash to a dentist for a cosmetic-related dental procedure (especially veneers), here are five secrets (a.k.a. "little white lies") the dental industry would rather you didn't know:

White Lie # 1: There Is No Specialty Known As "Cosmetic Dentistry."
Any general dentist can call herself a "cosmetic dentist." Since cosmetic dental procedures are such big ticket items, general dentists have resisted efforts to have the procedures designated as a specialty, which would require certification and training. Patients are left to try to figure out who is really qualified.

White Lie # 2: Not All Dentists Who Perform Cosmetic Procedures Have Advanced Training.
Not all dentists who hold themselves out as "cosmetic dentists" have significant advanced training in the procedures they will be performing, but such training exists. Meaningful credentials include accreditation by the AACD or extensive training at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies, the Pankey Institute, the Dawson Academy, the Kois Center or the Spear Education Center.

There are currently fewer than 350 dentists and laboratory technicians accredited by the AACD, was only 53 of them holding the highest credential no one has a 'Accredited Fellow'.

White Lie # 3: The Dental Laboratory That Makes The Veneers Is As Important As The Dentist.
Patients considering cosmetic procedures should be as focused on the lab as they are on the dentist as the porcelain veneers that will define your smile will probably not be fabricated at your dentist's office. They are usually sent to outside laboratories specializing in this kind of work. There is a vast difference in the quality of work done by these labs. According to Bob Clark, president of Williams Dental Laboratory, a high-quality lab will employ technicians with training similar to the training required for highly qualified cosmetic dentists, and will work in close partnership with the dentist.

White Lie # 4: Your Cosmetic Dentist May Be Using a Foreign Or Non-Certified Laboratory.
Many dentists use laboratories located in China or in other foreign countries. These laboratories offer far lower prices than U.S.-based labs. The lower cost isn't always passed on to patients. Furthermore, foreign labs may not use FDA-approved materials. Some crowns and bridges manufactured abroad have been found to contain lead. The American Dental Association and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, however, are not concerned. They believe the "trace amounts" of lead are "extremely unlikely to cause adverse health effects."

If your dentist is using a foreign laboratory, you have a right to know. Just because he sends his work to an address based in the U.S. doesn't necessarily mean it's not being outsourced to China or Mexico. If this is a concern, ask your dentist to show you "point of origin" and "list of materials" used for your lab work. This information should be maintained in your patient records, although in most states it is not required to be.

White Lie # 5: There Are Risks To Having Porcelain Veneers Placed On Your Teeth.
The advantages of porcelain veneers are compelling but they can be damaged or worn down over time, and may need to be replaced. By reducing the tooth structure, the tooth is more vulnerable to trauma or sensitivity. In extreme cases, root canal therapy may be required.

While cost isn't technically a risk, the procedure is very expensive. Industry experts advise patients to expect to pay a qualified cosmetic dentist from $1500 to $2500 per tooth. "Cheap" can be very expensive. A cosmetic dentist charging $800 a tooth is probably not using a first class laboratory and may be inexperienced. You could be very disappointed with the results.

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If Teeth Could Talk, What Would They Tell You To Eat

2011-03-19T10:34:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
Traditionally, dentists have told their patients to avoid foods that can damage their teeth and gums. However, in recent years dental research has revealed that are also foods and beverages that can improve your oral health. Experts from Western Dental Services, Inc. (a chain of dental offices on the West Coast) suggest including the following foods in your diet to help maintain your smile's health and beauty.

1. Sugar-Free Gum: Though most chewing gum is a sticky, sugary dental disaster, sugar-free brands containing the natural sweetener xylitol can improve dental health. "The bacteria that contribute to tooth decay, Streptococcus mutans, feed on the sucrose--the sugar--that we eat. As they multiply, the bacteria release acids that lead to tooth decay," says Dr. Louis Amendola, D.D.S., Western Dental's Chief Dental Director. "But bacteria can't digest xylitol, so they can't multiply or release the decay-causing acids. Xylitol also increases saliva and its pH level, which helps remineralize tooth enamel and fight plaque buildup," says Dr. Amendola, who keeps a steady supply of xylitol gum in his Western Dental offices.

Health food stores typically carry the gum or mints sweetened with enough xylitol to be effective. Experts suggest consuming a daily minimum of four grams of xylitol-sweetened mints or gum, preferably immediately after meals and snacks.

2. Brewed Tea: Drinking green or black tea may provide protection from several diseases, including dental cavities. Though scientists know that tea delivers naturally occurring fluoride to the mouth, they are still determining the most beneficial amounts and types of tea to drink to attain additional benefits. For example, University of Illinois at Chicago researchers found that chemical components in black tea called polyphenols inhibit the growth of glucosyltransferase, an enzyme that helps plaque adhere to tooth enamel. Tea's anti-bacterial properties also help prevent plaque from forming and weakens existing plaque and bacteria.

3. Tap Water: If your primary source of water comes from bottled or highly filtered water, you may be missing out on the protective effects of fluoridated water. According to the American Dental Association, the majority of bottled waters on the market don't contain enough fluoride to be beneficial to oral health. Further, some types of water treatment systems in homes can reduce fluoride content, potentially erasing the decay-preventing benefits of the mineral. Water in any form is kinder to your teeth, and waistline, than sugary sodas, sports drinks and many sweetened fruit juices. "The fluoridation of community water supplies helped to significantly reduce tooth decay, so it's important not to entirely abandon that source of fluoride," says Samuel H. Gruenbaum, President and Chief Executive Officer of Western Dental, a California-based company with 250 dental offices.

4. Cheese: Having cheese for dessert could be good for you. A growing body of evidence shows that consuming cheese, particularly at the end of a meal, could help prevent tooth decay and help repair tooth surfaces. Research indicates that cheese may reduce enamel demineralization, neutralize acids formed in plaque and, through increased saliva flow, flush away sugars.

5. Raw Vegetables: Sometimes called "nature's toothbrush," crunchy, crispy fresh fruits and vegetables such as carrots, apples and cucumbers help protect teeth by stimulating the gums and boosting the production of saliva, which helps flush away sugars and food particles. Fibrous, fresh fruits and vegetables help reduce the buildup of cavity-causing plaque and help neutralize saliva before it can erode dental enamel. In addition, carrots, spinach, tomatoes, broccoli and cantaloupe contain beta carotene and Vitamin C, which are essential to healthy teeth and gums.

Related Blog Posts
Super Foods For Super Dental Health ( January 28, 2011 )

Healthy Teeth Latest Victim Of Smoking

2011-03-11T14:28:00.001-05:00

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Dental News
A research study from the Harvard School of Dental Medicine has linked second-hand smoke to a higher risk of cavities in otherwise healthy teeth.

According to Dr. Taru Kinnunen, director of the Tobacco Dependence Treatment and Research Program at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, smokers will lose their teeth much earlier than non-smokers, and their second-hand smoke could be causing cavities in children.

"What we associate tobacco use with is cancer," said Dr. Kinnunen, "but tobacco use can cause lesions in the mouth and cause deterioration in (the) gums. When someone exhales, smoke still gets into your nasal cavities and oral cavities and it changes the constitution of saliva."

Speaking at the University of Manitoba (Canada) annual research day, Dr. Kinnunen said that a global epidemic of cigarettes still exists, and even in North America and Western Europe where cigarette smoking has declined, there is an increasing use of products such as smokeless tobacco and snuff.

Related Blog Posts
Smoking Hurts Long-Term Effects of Oral Surgery ( April 15, 2008 )

Fixing Root Canals That Fail

2011-03-04T11:03:00.001-05:00

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Dental News
It's a fact that some root canals just don't take. But now a new study done at Columbia University compared several ways to treat a root-canals-gone-bad and found that the most cost-effective way was to surgically repair the tooth.

The study appears in the March issue of the Journal of Endodontics and found that the least cost-effective treatment for failed root canals was removing the tooth and placing an implant in the bone. Although success rate in this option was quite high, it was also the most expensive.

Surgically repairing a root canal (called a apicoectomy) is a procedure performed by either an endodontist or oral surgeon and involves cutting into the gum to access the root tip of the affected tooth. The root tip and any infected tissue are then removes and the end of the root canal is cleaned and sealed.

Columbia University researchers compared four of the most common options for failed root canals in permanent molars, the options being:

* Redoing the root canal and placing a crown on the tunes
* Surgical repair of the tooth (endodontic microsurgery)
* Extraction of tooth and placement of a new bridge with a false tooth
* Extraction of tooth and replaced with a single-tooth implant in the bone

Treating a root canal involves removing the pulp tissue inside the affected tooth's root pulp root which has usually become infected. The pulp is replaced with a non-living material and a crown is then placed on top of the tooth.

Related Blog Posts
Common Myths About Root Canals ( July 2, 2010 )
Saving A Tooth Not Always Better Than An Implant ( September 2, 2009 )
Dental Implants = More Visits Than Root Canals ( November 22, 2008 )

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Super Glue, Painless Root Canals & "Too Perfect" Smiles

2011-02-25T10:48:00.000-05:00

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Dental News
The Chicago Dental Society just released the results of a survey of 300 of their members with some extremely interesting findings including;

* Almost 70% of dentists had a patient who tried to self-treat themselves before visiting the dentist. Among these self-treatments were using Super Glue to repair broken crowns or dentures and filing chipped teeth with an emery board. Several dentists also reported treating patients after they attempted to give themselves a root canal with a power tool

* Dental Myth #1 among the majority of dentists surveyed is that root canals are painful. Those dentists surveyed feel that advancements in dental technology have made this comment in dental procedure almost pain-free nowadays

* Basketball causes more dental injuries than any other sport. Over 30% of dentists reported treating patients who suffered an injury from playing basketball while 20% said they treated patients who got injured playing hockey. Only 15% of dentists surveyed claimed to treat dental injuries related to either baseball or softball.

* Over 50% of dentists surveyed believe that smiles are getting "too perfect" these days to the point where they look artificial

* Sweet tooths' aren't just for dental patients as almost 25% of dentists surveyed admitted that ice cream is her favorite treat, followed closely by cookies and pie. Surprisingly barely 6% of dentists claim they don't like sweets at all

* Most people (nearly 70%) are avoiding getting needed dental treatment because of the economy. However, this amount is down from last year's figure of over 75% who delayed visiting the dentist for economic reasons

The Chicago Dental Society conducted the survey in advance of it's 146th annual Midwinter Meeting which brings together 30,000 dental professionals. The Midwinter Meeting is a forum for dentists to learn about new products, technologies, and methods in dental care.

Dental Plaque In Your Salt Shaker?

2011-02-20T10:38:00.003-05:00

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Dental News
Don't be surprised if one day you salt your food with dental plaque as scientists the University of Nottingham (England) have discovered an artificial salt substitute from the crusty substance that forms on our teeth after eating.

Researchers have found that compounds called Dextrans --a starch like molecules made by certain types of bacteria found in dental plaque-- have the ability to trick the human brain into thinking food is salty than it actually is, giving researchers hope that it will one day enable food manufacturers dramatically reduce the amount of salt used in pre-prepared meals.

The Plaque Thickens
Food scientists have long known that thickening agents enhance the taste of saltiness in food, but can only be used in low concentrations to avoid making sauces and soups too thick. Professor Bettina Wolf and her research team at the division of food science at University of Nottingham found, however, that high concentrations of certain dextran molecules can increase the sensation of saltiness without dramatically thickening food.

"Though reducing the salt content in processed food could significantly improve the health of the population, the detrimental change in flavor presents a major challenge as consumers generally find low salt products unacceptable", said Professor Wolf. "High concentrations of low molecular weight thickeners could be used to enhance saltiness perception in low salt products."

Related Blog Posts
Dental Plaque More Dangerous To Blacks Than Whites? ( September 25, 2009 )

Cleaning Dentures Just Got Easier

2011-02-11T12:36:00.001-05:00

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Dental News
There's a new dental product that is designed to quickly and easily assist denture wearers with the unpleasant tasks of removing and cleaning their dentures and its associated adhesive.

Developed by Brian Williams of Decatur Illinois, the 3-in-1 Dental Tool, as it's called, is about the same length as a disposable razor and could be a potential replacement for commercial denture adhesives which some dental health experts say can cause zinc poisoning.

Williams inspiration for developing the tools was actually his own experience with dentures, in particular when he first got them and found it almost impossible to remove them. In addition, trying to remove the adhesive loose from the dentures made him gag.

"I was issued directions and a sample of the Fixodent," he said. "I started thinking: I can't do this every single day of my life. It wasn't working."

This tool comes in two versions, one each for the retail market and one for the medical supply market, and is particularly and useful for those who have to remove dentures from other people, such as medical personnel in nursing homes who generally have to do this with their hands. With a patient suffering from dementia or Alzheimer's, for example, medical personnel risk getting bitten by the patient, something which this tool eliminates.

The 3-in-1 Dental Tool is sold by his company Here to Help Products Inc., a name he chose because the reason he invents is to help others. "I just want to assist people," Williams said. "It's all in the name. We're here to help, and all the products we will make will be biodegradable and as earth-friendly as possible."

The fact that Williams device makes cleaning dentures easier doesn't hurt, either.

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Too Much Teeth Brushing Bad For Your Bowels

2011-02-04T10:53:00.003-05:00

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Dental News
Can too much brushing and flossing of your teeth be irritating your bowels? A recent study published in the journal Digestive Diseases and Sciences suggests that people who brush and floss a lot may be more likely to develop inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) which affects about 600,000 Americans.

Researchers from the Chicago-based Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science surveyed 137 people and found that compared to people with healthy digestive systems, those suffering from Irritable Bowel Disease;

            * Brushed and flossed more often
            * Visited the dentist more often
            * Were more likely to use breath freshener
            * Had increased tooth decay, dry mouth & oral sores

The researchers suggest that brushing and flossing more may alter the types and numbers of bacteria in the mouth. This could cause imbalances in the bacteria further down the digestive tract. The results are symptoms usually associated with IBD. Previous studies have suggested a link between IBD and changes in digestive bacteria.

Not So Fast
However, the researchers pointed out that the findings is not necessarily mean that frequent (i.e. too much) teeth brushing and flossing leads to IBD. "Patients with IBD have a higher incidence of dry mouth, mouth ulcers and periodontal disease and therefore tend to pay greater attention to their oral hygiene", said David A. Albert, DDS, MPH, of the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine. "These results do not imply that the hygiene practices caused the IBD."

Super Foods For Super Dental Health

2011-01-28T11:31:00.003-05:00

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Dental News
The term 'dental health' refers to all aspects of the health and functioning of our mouth, including the food we eat. Although food is frequently a contributing factor in unhealthy teeth and gums, there are also some types of food that can also help improve your dental health. Based on the latest research, below is a summary of the who, what, why and wherefore on good 'dental food';

Eat Salmon & Peanut Butter
Foods richh in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) on real cavity funders. The latest research shows people whose diets were rich in PUFAs, specifically DHA and EPA fatty acids, were up to 20% less likely to have periodontitis. Periodontitis is a common inflammatory condition in which the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, allowing bacteria to build up and potentially lead to bone and tooth loss. Polyunsaturated fats have been shown to reduce inflammation.

Eat Fish & Flax Oil
Foods containing Omega-3 fatty acids are the most potent anti-inflammatory nutrients which reduces swelling in the gums. This form of fat is found abundantly in in fish and flaxseed oil. Studies have shown that people who consume diets high in omega-3s are more resistant to inflammation and infection, and probably even gum disease.

Don't Ditch Dairy
Cheese and milk protect tooth enamel and ward off cavities in several ways. First, they encourage saliva production, which neutralizes acids in the mouth. The protein, calcium and phosphorous in cheese and milk also buffer acids, protecting enamel from erosion. Studies suggest that cheese and milk may even help strengthen the protective minerals in teeth surfaces.

Drink Green Tea
It helps protect against heart disease and cancer. It boosts weight loss and lowers cholesterol. And according to research published in the Journal of Periodontology, it helps keep your mouth healthy. The study showed that for every cup of green tea participants drank, there was a decrease in indicators for gum disease.

Skip Midnight Munching
Late-night eating does more than add inches to your waistline. It also can increase your chances of gum disease, tooth decay and tooth loss, according to two recent studies. Saliva flow dries up at night, which may be a reason. Saliva is important for removing food debris from your mouth.

Chew Sugarless Gum
Doing so for about 20 minutes after a meal can help prevent tooth decay, the American Dental Association says. That's because the physical act of chewing gum increases the flow of saliva, which can help neutralize and wash away acids that are produced when food is broken down by bacteria in your mouth. Otherwise, the acids eat away at tooth enamel, resulting in decay.

Go Cuckoo For Cocoa
Good news for chocoholics: Substances found in cocoa appear to dampen inflammation and may help protect against erosion and decay. Even chocolate milk, although it contains some sugar, doesn’t seem to increase the risk of cavities compared to snacks like cookies, chips, and raisins. Dark chocolate is a good choice, since it is lower in sugar than milk chocolate.

Nonetheless, is not so much what you eat that will improve your overall dental health but what you should be eating. Just ask House of Representatives member Dennis Kucinich (D-Ohio) who is suing the congressional cafeteria for "...permanent dental and oral injuries" as a result of them accidentally slipping an olive pit into the politician's sandwich wrap back in 2008.

Thankfully, Delta Dental of Massachusetts has an online dental tool to help you assess your diet as to it causing dental caries or tooth decay as a result of the not-so-super dental food you may or may not be eating.

Related Blog Posts
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Dental Trends 2011: What To Expect

2011-01-21T14:38:00.003-05:00

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Dental News
One of my most popular blog entries I've ever had was titled Top Trends In Dentistry For 2010 as many people are interested in reading about the latest in "anything dental". Not to be outdone this year, here is my annual "Dental Trends" article compiled from several experts on dental health and technology forecasting.

1. Smile Makeovers To Include Botox & Injectables
Expect to see an increase on the number of people visiting dentists to receive injections of dermal fillers and Botox as part of routine "smile makeovers". As experts in smile and facial esthetics, dentists are in a unique position to offer facial injectable fillers in order to provide patients with comprehensive anti-aging and rejuvenation procedures.

2. Educating Patients To Maximize Treatment Experience
Don't be surprised if your dentist texts or emails you remind you of your next appointment, or perhaps tell you of your need for one before your annual dental benefits expire. Better patient reminders, new mobile apps with helpful dental health information, and more conveniently scheduled and phased treatments to relieve financial burdens are among the patient-centered and technology-driven efforts to help you get the dentistry you need and want.

3. Better, Less Invasive Treatments For Sleep Disorders
Expect more people to seek out their dentist to resolve problems resulting from sleep apnea such as excessive snoring as dentists are increasingly able to treat this medical condition. Increasingly, dentists are playing a role in screening, diagnosing and treating snoring and sleep-disordered breathing using various oral appliances that are clinically proven, effective alternatives to expensive and cumbersome CPAP machines.

4. More Precision / Efficiency From Digital Dentistry
Dental treatments will become increasingly convenient and comfortable as more dentists incorporate digital devices and techniques in their procedures. Look for advances such as digital impressions that don't require traditional "slimmy" impression materials, in-office CAD/CAM equipment that lets dentists make metal-free crowns and other restorations during one same-day office visit, and digital radiography that produces less radiation exposure than traditional dental X-rays.

5. Improved Denture Esthetics, Stability & Comfort
Cosmetic smile makeovers are now a reality for both bull is younger and older patients as well. Thanks to more affordable and same-day implant procedures, as well as dentures made from materials that are as natural and beautiful looking as real teeth and gum tissue, dentists can offer a better variety of options to make eating, chewing, smiling and feeling comfortable with dentures easier than ever before - no matter what age a patient is.

6. Straighter Smiles In Six Months
Shorter-term orthodontics (i.e. six months or less) to help straighten out crooked teeth and improve patient's smiles will become increasingly available using both clear brackets and tooth colored wires for patients 15 years of age and up.

7. Stronger, Better (But Not Cheaper!) Implants
Sometimes known as "Implants Plus", more and more dentists are able to provide patients with titanium-based implants coated with high-tech materials that allow for faster healing and quicker attachment of permanent crowns, bridges and dentures. Naturally, these ultramodern dental products come at a premium price.

8. 'Puterized Periodontal Probing
Ultra new, digital probes and sensors that accurately record pocket measurements during visits with the hygienist, leading to early diagnosis of periodontal (gum) disease.

Related Blog Posts
Top Trends in Dentistry for 2010 ( December 14, 2009 )

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New Guidelines on Fluoridation of Water

2011-01-14T16:25:00.000-05:00

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Dental News
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have announced a change in standards and guidelines on the fluoridation of American drinking water. Water fluoridation and fluoride toothpaste are largely responsible for the significant decline in tooth decay in the U.S. over the past several decades.

The HHS is proposing that the recommended level of fluoride in drinking water can be set at the lowest end of the current 0.7 milligrams of fluoride per liter of water replacing the current recommended range of 0.7 to 1.2 milligrams. This updated recommendation is based on recent EPA and HHS scientific assessments to balance the benefits of preventing tooth decay while limiting any unwanted health effects.

There are several reasons for the changes of the EPA and HHA are suggesting, most notably of which is the fact that Americans today have access to more sources of fluoride than they did when water fluoridation was first introduced in the United States in the 1940s. Drinking water is now only one of several sources of fluoride including toothpaste and mouth rinses, prescription fluoride supplements, and fluoride applied by dental professionals.

"One of water fluoridation's biggest advantages is that it benefits all residents of a community-at home, work, school, or play," said HHS Assistant Secretary for Health Howard K. Koh, MD, MPH. "Today's announcement is part of our ongoing support of appropriate fluoridation for community water systems, and its effectiveness in preventing tooth decay throughout one's lifetime."

HHS and EPA reached an understanding of the latest science on fluoride and its effect on tooth decay prevention and the development of dental fluorosis that may occur with excess fluoride consumption during the tooth forming years, age 8 and younger. Dental fluorosis in the United States appears mostly in the very mild or mild form - as barely visible lacy white markings or spots on the enamel. The severe form of dental fluorosis, with staining and pitting of the tooth surface, is rare in the United States.

Related Blog Posts
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Red Wine & Cranberries Help Prevent Cavities

2011-01-06T13:58:00.001-05:00

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Dental News
Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center in New York State have found that compounds in red wine and cranberries can prevent cavities and plaque build-up. The antioxidant compounds known as polyphenols block a molecule made by the bacteria streptococcus mutans which is found in our mouths.

Although this bacteria is essential to our digestive system because it breaks down sugar we eat so it's easier to digest for our stomachs, this bacteria also produce an acid that erodes the tooth enamel leading to cavities.

But the fermented grape stems, seeds and skins left over from wine production contain high amounts of polyphenols. The polyphenols can block the ability of streptococcus mutans to make glucans (a sticky residue left on teeth) letting the good bacteria in the mouth thrive, while disabling the bad bacteria from sticking to the teeth.

Researchers hope to find a way to add these compounds to mouthwashes, toothpastes or chewing gum to combat plaque and cavities within the next four years.

Beverages containing 25% cranberry juice also inhibited bacteria from binding and accumulating on an artificial tooth by 67% to 85% leading researchers to suggest that cranberry dental floss and toothpaste might give you a healthier smile.

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Alaska's Rural Dental Care Improving

2010-12-30T10:12:00.001-05:00

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Dental News
Alaska’s efforts to deliver quality dental care to its underserved rural population via The Dental Health Aide Therapy program (DHAT) has been so successful that is being heralded as a model for other states according to a study done by RTI International of Research Triangle Park in North Carolina with funding from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, and Alaska’s Rasmuson Foundation and Bethel Community Services Foundation.

The study was an independent evaluation of the DHAT program in confirmed that dental therapists at work in five Alaska communities are providing safe, competent, appropriate dental care to children and adults. Based on the Alaska study, the W.K. Kellogg Foundation announced a $16 million initiative back in November to fund similar programs in Kansas, New Mexico, Ohio, Vermont and Washington.

The DHAT program utilizes a new category of dental care professionals known as Dental Therapists whose primary job is to provide preventative dental treatments such as placing sealants on children’s teeth, preparing fillings, placing stainless steel crowns, and giving oral health instruction to patients. All of the dental therapists in the program work under the general supervision of dentists and must receive at least two years of training before they are certified as therapists.

Alaska’s program was modeled after one in New Zealand that started in 1921 and has been adopted by many countries worldwide. In fact, Alaska’s first 10 dental therapists were trained in New Zealand.

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Could Dental Anxiety Be Exaggerated?

2010-12-23T13:30:00.000-05:00

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Dental News
Does dental anxiety cause your heart to start pounding and your palms start sweating before you even sit in the dentist's chair? Well, you're not alone. The latest Adult Dental Health Survey from England found that 18% of adult women and 10% of adult men are classified as having "extreme dental anxiety".

However, these people's level of dental anxiety may have more to do with prior memories of pain they experienced in the past than with the dental procedure they're about to undergo according from a study recently published in the Journal of Dental Research. The study was conducted by researchers at the University of West Virginia who surveyed 79 people in need of an emergency tooth extraction at the oral surgery clinic.

Study participants were asked about their fear and pain before the extraction, during it and two weeks later. Before having the tooth pulled, highly anxious people expected to feel more pain than those with low anxiety did. Two weeks later, everyone in the study exaggerated how much pain they had felt during treatment, even subjects who did not report that they were anxious about the treatment. That is, they recalled feeling more pain during treatment than they said they did at the time. People with high levels of dental-related anxiousness also recalled feeling more anxious than they said they were at the time.

The authors suggest that controlling dental anxiety levels before treatment may be helpful. This can be done with medications or behavioral strategies.

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Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Florida FamilyBlue Joins DentalPlans.com

2010-12-16T09:59:00.000-05:00

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Dental News
DentalPlans.com, the definitive source of discount dental plans in the USA, announced the addition of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida FamilyBlue Discount Plan joining the list of 30+ affordable regional and national discount dental plans DentalPlans.com offers.

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida FamilyBlue Discount Plan grants members access to a network of providers across the state of Florida, each agreeing to offer their dental services at a discount of 10% to 50%. Plan members will be able to save on everything from cleanings and checkups, to root canals, braces, crowns and some cosmetic procedures.

"Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida is one of the most trusted and recognizable healthcare providers in the country," says Buddy Johnson, CEO of DentalPlans.com. "We're excited to announce this addition to our diverse offering of discount dental plans, so we can make dental care more affordable and accessible to people throughout the state of Florida."

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida FamilyBlue Discount Plan does not have health restrictions or annual limits, and can be used as often as needed. In addition to dental care, the plan also provides discounts on other health services such as vision care, hearing care, diabetic supplies, chiropractic services, prescription drugs and a 24-Hour NurseLine and vitamins (including beauty, wellness and pet products) are also offered at a discount for the convenience of its members.

Musical Toothbrushes? Are You "Kid"ding Me

2010-12-09T10:11:00.000-05:00

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Dental News
The San Diego-based company Plackers has introduced the first line of musical toothbrushes aimed at getting kids to brush their teeth more by making the experience both fun and educational.

Called Brush & Learn, these new types of toothbrushes utilize original melodies and upbeat, catchy lyrics, each toothbrush plays an entertaining, educational song that encourages healthy dental care habits by making brushing fun for children. Parents can choose from four Brush & Learn toothbrushes with songs that help teach children their ABCs, 123s, farm animal sounds, as well as proper teeth brushing techniques for children.

"The Brush & Learn toothbrushes are a great way for parents to encourage a daily brushing routine at an early age that's both entertaining and educational," said Tom Barman, Director of Marketing for Plackers. "Children will look forward to brushing their teeth with Brush & Learn's melodic, interactive songs and will establish a foundation of healthy oral care habits that will last a lifetime."

In addition to encouraging kids to brush your teeth more, having a toothbrush that makes sounds also allows parents to monitor their children's brushing habits without having to be in the bathroom with them when as they're doing so.

Tooth decay is the #1 chronic childhood disease in the U.S. according to the U.S. Surgeon General and causes children to lose over 51 million school hours each year due to dental related illness. The best way to prevent tooth decay in kids is to have them brush their teeth two to three times a day in addition to avoiding sugary snacks as much as possible.

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Dr. Ronald McDonald : D.D.S.

2010-12-02T10:21:00.001-05:00

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Dental News
For some residents of the greater Columbus, Ohio area, their dental health will now be in the hands of Ronald McDonald. Well, sort of.

Ronald McDonald House Charities has unveiled a new mobile dental unit which will provide no-cost general and preventive dental treatment services to qualifying children in the Columbus, Ohio area. The mobile dental clinic is funded by the Ronald McDonald House Charities and represents the 43rd such mobile dental unit to hit the roads.

This new dental van is outfitted with state of the art equipment and technology and will be staffed by professionals from the Nationwide Children’s Hospital. In addition to providing routine dental care, the unit will also be providing limited primary care for children, including immunization programs, vision and hearing tests and general health checkups.

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Does Being Poor Or Stressed Cause Cavities?

2010-11-24T10:48:00.000-05:00

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Dental News: Cavities
The November issue of the Journal of Social Science and Medicine just published in a groundbreaking study that showed that there are psychological and/or social factors associated with poverty that seem to increase the risk of tooth decay in small children.

Researchers from the University of British Columbia (Canada) who did the study tracked 132 kindergarten children for two years and found that almost half of the children had tooth decay. The study authors hypothesized that this increased rate of tooth decay was the result of stress levels accelerated the process that creates a cavity in a tooth.

Children with the most cavities had high levels of decay-causing bacteria in their mouths. They also had high levels of cortisol in their saliva. Cortisol is released in response to stress. It aids in the body's digesting of sugars.

The researchers also examined any baby teeth that were normally lost during the study. Children with more cortisol in their saliva had baby teeth with thinner, softer enamel which is your mouth's first-line defense against cavities.

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"Fluoride Phobia" Takes Hold In Canada

2010-11-18T10:39:00.006-05:00

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Dental News
Fluoride phobia chalked up another victim this week as the City Council of Waterloo in Ontario, Canada promised to stop fluoridating the city’s water supply, something it's had for the past 43 years. The change was a result of a nonbinding public referendum which saw a slim majority of 50.3% of the public voting to end fluoridation.

While the referendum was not binding, the mayor and regional council members had said they would honor the wishes of the majority which could come as soon as November 29, 2010. Two previous referendums on the issue in the 1980s saw Waterloo voters say 'Yes' to fluoridation.

Anti-fluoridation activists cite studies that have linked fluoride to cancer, thyroid disease and improper arthritis diagnoses. However, future head of the Ontario Dental Association, Dr. Harry Hoediono, says that this is due to widespread misconceptions about fluoride, which actually helps to protect teeth and adding fluoride in drinking water has been some commonplace across North America for the past 60 years.

Dental health professionals going to evidence of fluoride being an element that is naturally occurring and having a long history of being and inexpensive way to prevent tooth decay. "We do see first hand the benefits of water fluoridation. Water fluoridation in the right amounts is safe and effective", said Dr. Matt Facica of the Waterloo Wellington Dental Association.

Related Blog Posts
Fluoridated Water Benefits People Of All Ages ( January 27, 2008 )
Fluoride In Nevada's Drinking Water? Them's Fighting Words! ( May 28, 2009 )

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What Causes Dry Mouth At Night While Sleeping

2010-11-11T11:24:00.001-05:00

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Dental News
Now that winter is almost here, having a dry mouth at night while sleeping is a common complaint for many Americans. According to Dr. Harold Katz, this is because during the colder months, most people spend far more time than indoors with very dry air courtesy of the heat provided by gas or oil furnaces. For those individuals who are exposed to this type of climate almost 24 hours a day for several months, extreme dry mouth can be the result.

How Dry Mouth Affects Your Oral Health
"Dry mouth causes bad breath and other dental problems because it becomes an ideal environment for bacteria to grow" says Dr. Katz. "They (bacteria) thrive and multiply in the warm dry recesses of the mouth. Once they have reproduced to such large numbers, even brushing and flossing may not be enough to completely eradicate them. Once these microbes have gotten a foothold in the mouth, they may begin to cause halitosis, gingivitis and tooth decay."

Leaving sugar in the mouth for extended periods of time can lead to an accumulation of sticky plaque on the teeth. This also encourages the growth of bacteria. Its effects may be worse than those of dry mouth in the long run.

How To Improve "Winter Dry Mouth"
Dental health experts agree that the most effective way to avoid this is to stay well hydrated and keep the mouth moist. HealthDay News recently reported that the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) recommends keeping water or other hydrating beverages handy at all times during the winter.

The NIDCR also suggests avoiding drinking beverages containing elements known to dehydrate the mouth (i.e. caffeine and alcohol) and consider running a humidifier (especially when sleeping) to help neutralize the effects of dry winter air. During the day, chewing gum is recommended for keeping your mouth moist.

With winter approaching, the problems of dry mouth loom large. Practicing the simple steps above aimed at eliminating the root causes of dry mouth will go a long way to improving your oral health as well as preventing halitosis during wintertime.

Related Blog Posts
Dry Mouth Linked To Prescription & Over The Counter Drugs ( July 12, 2009 )
How Often Should Teeth Be X-Rayed? ( October 7, 2007 )

Pilot Program In New Jersey County Might Lower Dental Bills 50%

2010-11-04T14:25:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
Atlantic County New Jersey residents will be able to participate in a unique program aimed at improving dental care for County residents. Referred to as a dental discount program, county officials say residents will be able to save on average 50% on all types dental care including oral exams, cleanings, root canals, dentures and even braces.

Atlantic County is one of 38 counties nationwide selected for the pilot program that will utilize more than 400 local dentists and specialists. The program launches at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 9, at the John H. Cronin Dental Center, 235 Dolphin Avenue in Northfield, New Jersey.

Related Blog Posts
Dental Insurance Or Discount Plan? ( April 1, 2010 )
The 'Maine' Difference Between Dental Insurance & Discount Plans ( May 19, 2009 )
How to Manage Dental Costs, With or Without Insurance ( September 5, 2009 )

Could Eating Fish Prevent Gum Disease?

2010-10-28T09:41:00.001-04:00

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Dental News
The Journal of the American Dietetic Association has published the results of a new study that suggests fish oil could help prevent gum disease, a.k.a. Periodontitis.

Researchers studied nearly 9,200 adults aged 20 between 1999 and 2004 and found that people whose diets are full of omega-3 fatty fish oil are 30 percent less likely to have gum disease. The high levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids help decrease inflammation.

Periodontitis Defined
Periodontitis is a common type of gum disease in which the gum tissue separates from the teeth and allows bacteria to build up. If untreated, the condition can lead to bone and tooth loss.

Dental exams showed study participants in the middle and upper third for omega-3 fatty acid consumption were between 23 percent and 30 percent less likely to have gum disease than those who consumed the least amount of omega-3 fatty acids.

And Now Some Quotes
"Eating a very feasible amount of fatty fish seems to have a lot of benefit," said senior study author Dr. Kenneth Mukamal, an associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School. "But we found no benefits to eating tons of this stuff." Sources high in omega-3 fatty acids include sardines, mackerel and swordfish, along with some nuts and seeds such as walnuts and flax seed.

In an accompanying commentary, Elizabeth Krall Kaye, a professor in the department of health policy and health services research at Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, said the study supports incorporating fatty fish into one's diet, but not necessarily fish oil supplements.

Related Dental News Posts
How Bad Is Your Gum Disease? This Quiz Will Tell ( November 1, 2008 )

Dental Surgery Might Trigger A Heart Attack

2010-10-21T15:01:00.001-04:00

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Dental News
People who get dental surgery have a higher risk of developing a heart attack or stroke for a few weeks after the procedure, British researchers have revealed in an article published in the peer-reviewed journal Annals of Internal Medicine, which is published by the American College of Physicians.

However, this elevated risk no longer exists after six months. The authors explain that periodontal disease treatment may in the long-term lower cardiovascular risk.

Why This May Occur
Invasive dental procedures, such as having a tooth taken out, could cause inflammation and allow bacteria to get into the bloodstream, which may explain the extra risk. However, the overall chance of problems was fairly small, and dropped back to normal within six months.

The researchers looked at data from Medicaid-based insurance claims, which included 1,152 people who’d had a heart attack or stroke, and who’d also had invasive dental work. After adjusting the figures to take into account people’s ages, the researchers worked out that the risk of a heart attack or stroke in the month after dental surgery was one-and-a-half times the person’s normal risk.

WebMD Recommendations
The British version of the medical device website -WebMD Boots- points out that the above study was done using medical records which don't take into account if any of the people whose medical records reviews were taking aspirin at the time of the dental surgery. Aspirin can prevent heart problems or strokes by making blood clots less likely, but it can also increase the risk of bleeding. Some dentists ask people to stop taking aspirin before dental surgery, to prevent problems with bleeding. So if your dentist suggests stopping aspirin or a similar drug before dental surgery, check that it really is essential. In addition, get regular dental check-ups, brush your teeth, and avoid sugary foods and drinks, to help prevent the need for dental surgery.

Related Blog Posts
Smoking Hurts Long-Term Effects of Oral Surgery ( April 15, 2008 )

How Good Dental Health Benefits the Body & Mind

2010-10-14T15:46:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
People tend to think of beautiful straight teeth as a purely cosmetic concern - a luxury rather than a necessity. However, teeth that are crooked, stained, or have other problems can cause both physical and physiological problems for people who neglect their dental health.

On the other hand, there are a host of health benefits to seeing your dentist regularly may avoid such as infections in the mouth that could spread to the rest of the body, a problem much more regular and people in low-income families, especially children. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 32% of American children between the ages of 6 and 19 who are from low-income families are left to suffer from untreated cavities.

"Crooked and crowded teeth are hard to clean properly, potentially leading to tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss," notes Miami dentist Dr. Charles Nottingham who specializes in restorative and cosmetic dentistry. "A bad bite can also cause abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, poor speech, and excessive stress on the jaw bone and gum tissue."

Poor bites can also influence chewing and swallowing and food selection - leading to nutritional problems. Pain in the jaw or teeth can lead to pain in the head, neck, shoulders, or elsewhere in the body. Oral pain often leads to diminished activity, lost work days, depression, sleep problems, and missed school for children.

"In addition, problems with your teeth can be an indicator of whole-body health issues," points out Dr. Nottingham. "Scientific research indicates a link between gum disease and many other overall health problems including: high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, arthritis, premature births and many more."

Sometimes teeth can reveal a previously unknown health condition. Conditions that can be detected in the mouth include diabetes (causesgum infections), acid reflux (teeth are much more prone to decay), some auto-immune disorders (the soft tissue in the mouth and salivary glands can be affected), liver diseases (the soft tissue in the mouth is jaundiced) and many more.

Related Blog Posts
Dental Hygiene Care: Not Just In Dental Offices ( April 25, 2009 )
Poor Oral Health May Lead To Memory Loss ( June 23, 2009 )

Less Calcium Could Lead To Tooth Loss

2010-10-08T14:57:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
The Journal of Nutrition reported that researches at Copenhagen University Hospital did a study which found that having lower calcium intake is linked with having fewer teeth, or tooth loss.

Adults who took in less than the recommended amount of calcium had higher odds of having fewer than 26 teeth. Women had 44% higher odds. Men had 57% higher odds. Adults normally have 32 teeth, including 4 wisdom teeth.

The study involved a total of 2,113 adults between the ages 30 to 60, most of whomo kept a seven-day record of what they ate while some had their tooth loss history examined from the years 1982 to 1994. During that time, lower calcium intake increased the odds of tooth loss in men, but not in women.

Many of the adults who participated in this study did not get the recommended amount of daily calcium. Only 45% of women got enough calcium. About 55% of men did.

Related Blog Posts
Eating Yogurt Reduces Childhood Tooth Decay 22% ( June 3, 2010 )

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Toothpaste "Breakthrough" For Sensitive Teeth?

2010-09-30T20:25:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
Colgate-Palmolive has introduced a new toothpaste called "Colgate* Sensitive Pro-Relief" which for people who suffer from tooth sensitivity. Colgate* Sensitive Pro-Relief is currently available only in major retailers across Canada.

Colgate-Palmolive claims that the new Colgate* Sensitive Pro-Relief is the first and only toothpaste clinically proven to deliver instant and lasting sensitivity relief. While most of the sensitive toothpastes currently marketed primarily numb sensitivity pain, Colgate* Sensitive Pro-Relief formula effectively plugs the channels that lead to sensitive tooth nerves, thereby blocking the transmission of heat, cold, air and pressure that stimulate pain receptors within teeth.

"Sensitivity is more than just an inconvenience, it's a common condition that can cause unwanted pain," said Dr. William DeVizio, VP, Global Technology, Colgate-Palmolive. "Colgate* Sensitive Pro-Relief can be directly applied to a sensitive tooth, using your fingertip to gently massage for one minute, to deliver instant relief from sensitivity. And regular brushing with Colgate* Sensitive Pro-Relief toothpaste builds a long-lasting protective barrier that acts like a seal against sensitivity."

For more information about Colgate* Sensitive Pro-Relief toothpaste, the company suggests you visit their website.

Related Blog Posts
Sensitivity From Whitening Treatments ( November 3, 2007 )
Choosing a Toothpaste: More Than Just Mint ( September 14, 2009 )

Kentucky Kids Must Now Get Dental Screenings Before Going To School

2010-09-23T11:04:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
A new law in Kentucky takes effect this September that requires children to present proof of a dental screening or examination by Jan. 1 of the first year they enter school as 5- or 6-year-olds.

The legislation --which was passed back in 2008-- places the mandate on the state's families because an estimated 43% of Kentucky children between the ages of 2 and 4 have untreated tooth decay.

"We know that there are children out there with unmet need, and hopefully, by making this now part of the requirements for entering school, we'll find those children and they will be treated, and hopefully, (it will be) a pleasant experience and they won't fear going to the dentist in the future," said Michael Porter, executive director of the Kentucky Dental Association which pushed for the new law to be passed.

Free Screenings For Kentuckians
To help families comply with the law, University of Louisville dental school is offering free dental screenings for 5- and 6-year-olds, perhaps until the end of the year. The screenings --which are a look-see inside the mouth (not a full exam)-- take about 10 minutes and provide an opportunity to educate families about good dental hygiene.

"Originally we had said until the end of October, but we'll do them as long as there's a need for them; there's no time limit," said Dr. Ann Greenwell, program director for the pediatric dental residency program of the University of Louisville's dental school.

Related Blog Posts
What Does 'Sugarless' Really Mean? ( February 11, 2007 )
Dental Therapists To Help Rural Dental Care Crises ( December 18, 2009 )

Gum Disease Linked To Higher Premature Birth Rates

2010-09-16T15:31:00.004-04:00

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Dental News
The International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BJOG, reported that a strong link has been found between successful gum disease treatment and the likelihood of giving birth prematurely.

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania Dental that women with untreated gum disease were roughly 8 times more likely to have a premature baby than those women who received successfully treated for gum disease via scaling and root planning (cleaning above and below the gum-line). However, the study's results also suggest that pregnant women who were resistant to scaling and root planning were significantly more likely to deliver preterm babies than those where it was successful.

"Our research group is very excited about these results. First these data show that pregnant women can receive periodontal treatment safely in order to improve their oral health. Second in a high risk group of pregnant women, such as those patients who participated in this study, successful periodontal treatment, when rendered as an adjunct to conventional obstetric care, may reduce the incidence of preterm birth." said Marjorie Jeffcoat, Professor of Periodontology at the University of Pennsylvania and lead author of the report.

Professor Philip Steer, BJOG editor-in-chief, said: "This new study shows a strong link between unsuccessful gum disease treatment and preterm birth. However, we need to bear in mind that 69% of women failed to respond to the dental treatment given. Therefore more effective treatment will need to be devised before we can be sure that successful treatment improves outcome, rather than simply being a marker of pregnancies with a lower background level of inflammation that will go to term anyway."

Related Blog Posts
5 Biggest Myths About Oral Health ( Nov 27, 2007 )
New Perinatal And Infant Oral Health Guidelines ( June 14, 2009 )

Most Dentists Think They Should Be Orthodontists Too

2010-09-09T15:04:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
In a survey conducted by The Wealthy Dentist dental marketing firm, 75% a general dentists think it is appropriate for general practitioners (GPs) to perform orthodontic procedures, but only 4% of orthodontists surveyed think it's appropriate.

"Case selection is critical and should be based upon the knowledge and skill of the GP," said a Florida dentist who responded to the survey.

A prosthodontist survey argued, "With proper training, any GP should be able to perform any procedure, whether it is endo, ortho, dental implants, etc."

However, 41% of the orthodontists surveyed say they are the ones who should be doing virtually all orthodontic work.

"Every orthodontist is being asked to help bail out GP cases, as they often underestimate the complexity of cases or are tackling more complex cases than they should due to economic pressures," said one California orthodontist.

Related Blog Posts
Need A Dentist? How About A Specialist? Can't Decide? ( Dec 20, 2008 )

Parents: "Schools Should Teach Dental Health"

2010-09-03T10:08:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
According to a recent survey conducted by Oral Health America, almost two thirds of American parents (65%) say that it is extremely important for schools to teach kids about the importance of taking care of their teeth, even though they agree with dental health professionals when they say that parents are the first role models from whom their children can learn proper dental hygiene.

"If we want our children to be in school, ready to learn, both parents and schools have a vested interest in working in partnership with dental care providers to teach good habits that will last a lifetime, and keep teeth and mouths healthy." says Beth Truett, president of Oral Health America, "Schools could see better student performance if they begin teaching children about dental health."

Tooth decay is the most prevalent chronic childhood disease in the U.S., and children lose more than 51 million school hours to the condition each year.

Related Blog Posts
Back To School Means Back To The Dentist Too ( July 27, 2008 )
Dental Therapists To Help Rural Dental Care Crises ( Dec 18, 2009 )
Americans Want More Money For Kid's Dental Care ( May 20, 2009 )

Increased Death Among Toothless Diabetics

2010-08-26T10:21:00.002-04:00

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Dental News
According to the journal Diabetologia, a recent study revealed that people with diabetes who have lost all of their teeth have a 50% greater risk of death than similar-aged diabetics who have most of their teeth. The study was conducted by researchers at The George Institute for International Health (Sydney, Australia) using data from almost 11,000 people, ages 55 to 88 who have type 2 diabetes.

People's teeth were counted at the start of the study. They also answered questions about how often their gums bled. Researchers kept track of the people for 5 years and recorded deaths and the causes of death. Bleeding gums were not linked with an increased risk of death. But compared with people who had at least 22 teeth, diabetics with no teeth had greater risks of:

* Death from all causes combined (48% higher)
* Death from heart and blood vessel disease (35% higher)
* Death from causes other than heart/blood vessel disease (64% higher)

Diabetics are already more than twice as likely to have heart problems as those without diabetes. This risk is even higher if blood-sugar levels are not well controlled.

Severe periodontal disease can cause tooth loss. There are other causes, however, including tooth decay and injury. The people in this study were not asked why they were missing teeth.

Related Blog Posts
Oral Health Problems Associated With Diabetes ( Mar 31, 2008 )
Periodontal Disease Especially Dangerous To Diabetics ( Nov 04, 2009 )
Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease & Oral Health ( Dec 11, 2009 )

11 Alternative Uses For Dental Floss

2010-08-19T12:21:00.000-04:00

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By Marlene Alexander of Walletpop.com

There are so many more ways to use dental floss than just to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Because it's made with nylon or Teflon fibers, floss is stronger than string or thread, easier to work with than wire and you can get it cheap at most dollar stores. Here are just a few of the many alternative uses for dental floss:

Hang Time - Use dental floss to hang pictures, sun catchers or Christmas ornaments. In fact, you can use it to hang just about any smallish object in need of string or wire.

Sew Neat - I love this one. If you've ever had a coat button that keeps coming off, and who hasn't, try dental floss instead of thread the next time you sew it on. Floss is also strong enough to repair tears in mess on things like playpens, beach bags and laundry bags.A cut above - If you wrap a length of dental floss around one finger on each hand, you can cut perfect cake slices. It's cleaner and neater than using a knife. You can cut fruit, soft cheese, bread and hard-boiled eggs this way, too.

Picture Perfect - All it takes is a little moisture and pictures can become stuck together and ruined. But maybe not. You may need an extra pair of hands for this operation but you can try separating photos by slowly working some floss in between them.

Cookie Saver - Crumbling cookies got you down? Slide some floss underneath your baked goods to easily lift them off the baking tray.

With This Law - Somehow or other that ring on your finger has shrunk and now you can't get it off. Try this nifty little trick using waxed dental floss: Wrap the floss around your finger from the tip down to the ring. The idea here is to reduce the size of your finger without cutting off the circulation. The ring will then slide over the floss so you can easily remove it.

Clothes Call - Forgot the rope on a camping trip? Use a length of unwaxed dental floss as a clothesline. Many hotels already have pull-out clotheslines over the tub. However, if you find yourself in one that doesn't, just whip out the dental floss. You could tie one end to the showerhead and the other to the far end of the curtain rod.

The Silencer - Quiet a dripping faucet by tying a piece of floss around the opening and letting it hang down into the sink. The drips will slide noiselessly down the floss. It's a great quick fix until you can repair the taps and save on your water bill.

Ivy league - Support climbing plants by using a piece of dental floss to tie them to a trellis.

It's A Wrap - Use dental floss, instead of twine, to securely tie packages for mailing.

Gone Fishing - If you happen to break your fishing line, dental floss makes a sturdy replacement.

Could Your Dentist Help You Quit Smoking? Maybe... One Day

2010-08-12T16:28:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
The Journal of the American Dental Association reports that both dentists and dental hygienists can help people to stop using tobacco, but success rates still are low. The report came from a joint research project conducted by the University of Arizona, the University of Mississippi (Jackson), and the Oregon Research Institute involving 2,160 adult tobacco users who were all regular patients at 68 different private dental clinics in Mississippi.

At the beginning of the study half of the people said they were seriously considering quitting in the next 30 days while 54% had tried to quit in the last year. One year after the study began, researchers asked the people if they had quit and found that the two dental office tobacco intervention groups (5As and AAR) had quit more successfully, compared with the dental offices in the service as usual group.

People in AAR or 5A's were more likely than those in usual care to report that their dentists or hygienists:

* Discussed tobacco-related oral health
* Discussed a quit date
* Talked about quitting tips
* Talked about nicotine patches, lozenges or gum
* Provided prescriptions for patches, lozenges or gum
* Gave written materials on tobacco cessation

There were few differences between the 5As and the AAR interventions. People in the AAR group were more likely to get referred to a quitline and to receive a call from the quitline. About one-third of people in the AAR group were referred to a quitline, and most of them received quitline calls. However, most people did not actually receive telephone counseling. People who did receive counseling were about 4 times as likely to stop using tobacco (smoking or smokeless tobacco) for at least nine months.

Piercing Your Tongue Can Cause Gapped Teeth

2010-08-05T11:13:00.003-04:00

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Dental News
The Journal of Clinical Orthodontics has published a case study involving a 26-year-old woman who needed braces -costing thousands of dollars- to correct a gap in her teeth caused by a tongue piercing she received 7 years early.

The case study is considered to be common among those with metal studs inserted into their tongues according to dental researchers at the University of Buffalo which collected photos from the patient that showed she had no diastema, or space, between her upper central incisors prior to receiving the tongue piercing.

A previous survey by the university's dental school found that tongue piercings caused high school students in Buffalo to pick up this habit, which the students called "playing."

Pierce The Tongue Today; Pay The Orthodontist Tomorrow
Based upon the position of the space, the researchers concluded that the young woman created the midline gap by pushing the barbell-shaped stud against her upper front teeth every day for seven years.

"It is a basic tenet of orthodontics that force, over time, moves teeth," said Swansan Tabbaa, an assistant professor of orthodontics at the university's School of Dental Medicine and lead researcher on the case study.

"The barbell is never removed because the tongue is so vascular that leaving the stud out can result in healing of the opening in the tongue," Tabbaa said. "So it makes perfect sense that constant pushing of the stud against the teeth every day with no break will move them or drive them apart."

Related Blog Posts
Oral Piercings Cause Dental Problems In Teens ( July 5, 2008 )
The Health Risks of Oral Piercings ( July 9, 2009 )

Painless Dental Fillings Just Got A 'Hole' Lot Closer

2010-07-29T16:44:00.001-04:00

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Dental News
French researchers have developed a gel that they say can help decayed teeth grow back in just weeks, a method that could very soon put an end to traditional dental fillings used to fill holes left by teeth that have decayed.

The gel works by prompting cells in teeth to start multiplying as it contains a hormone that a team of scientists at the National Institute for Health and Medical Research in Paris tested to see if it could stimulate tooth growth. Their findings were published in the American Chemical Society journal.

Pulp Fiction For Dentists
The researchers rubbed the gel on dental pulp fibroblasts taken from human tooth tissue and found that the gel triggered growth of new cells and adhered to each other. Earlier, they experimented with the gel on mice with dental cavities and the cavities disappeared within one month. It took the same amount of time to restore the human samples to form healthy new tooth tissue.

Although the researchers claim that practical applications of this gel won't be available for three to five years, teeth that are treated with this gel will look just like your original; essentially you'll have a brand new tooth.

Not So Fast, Frenchies
However, not all dental experts are excited about the new gel and those people who think that this will eventually replace going to the dentist to get a filling have 'missed the point,' according to Dr. David Pashley, a professor at the Medical College of Georgia who has published more than 500 papers in peer-reviewed dental journals.

"(The media) blew this research out of proportion (making it sound like) it’s the biggest thing since fluoride. Not really," Pashley told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Dr. Pashley went on to say that this type of tissue engineering will eventually work, but the process will take some time. He doesn’t expect any sort of whiz-bang replacement for traditional dental fillings for another five or 10 years.

In short, Pashley said there’s not an easy fix for cavities, which happen when bacteria invade a tooth’s enamel and dentin. "You can’t just squirt a gel or put something in a cavity and hope something works," he said.

Related Blog Posts
Dental Fillings That Will Turn Your Stomach ( May 21, 2009 )
FDA Says Mercury (Amalgam) Fillings Are Safe ( July 29, 2009 )
British Dentists Might Have To Ration Fillings, Crowns, Etc. ( December 2, 2009 )

World Wide Weird Dental News

2010-07-23T15:49:00.001-04:00

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Giant Burgers Causing Injuries In Taiwan
The global news agency AFP reports that a growing number of jaw injuries in Taiwan have have forced Taiwanese dentists to recommend that fast food chains drop over-sized hamburgers from their menus.

Several dental patients in Taiwan have developed sore jaws or had difficulties opening their mouths after consuming giant burgers, the China Post quoted professor Hsu Ming-lung of the School of Dentistry at National Yang-Ming University as saying, "Problems can arise when fast-food fans tuck into hamburgers larger than three inches high. The human mouth is designed to gape over objects measuring up to 3.33 inches, and overextending can hurt the joint between the jawbone and the temporal bone in front of the ears".

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Dentist Pulls Wrong Tooth... And Pays For It
A dentist in India who had removed a wrong tooth of a patient has been ordered to pay more than Rs 57,000 (whatever that is - Editor) by a consumer forum.

Poonam Devi, a resident of the India town Chandigarh, had gone to Dr Ashima Kohli complaining of pain in her lower jaw. The patient had earlier consulted another doctor who suggested that the pain would subside once the sixth tooth of the lower jaw was removed while Dr Kohli said that she will be extracting the seventh tooth.

Mrs Poonam said that the pain did not subside even after extracting the tooth and then she consulted a government doctor who said that the cause of pain was indeed the sixth tooth. When the patient and her husband tried to contact Dr Kohli on the issue, she is said to have been misbehaved with the patient, which led them to lodge a complaint with the consumer forum.

The district consumer disputes forum agreed with the complainant and ordered Dr Kohli to pay the patient Rs 50,000 as a compensation for mental agony and harassment while Rs 5,000 was to be paid to cover the legal fees and an additional Rs 2,200 was to be paid to reimburse their medical expense.

Black Tea Has More Fluoride Than Once Thought

2010-07-16T11:44:00.002-04:00

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Dental News
Black tea, one of the world's most consumed beverages, may contain higher concentrations of fluoride than previously thought, which could pose problems for the heaviest tea drinkers, Medical College of Georgia researchers say.

Most published reports show 1 to 5 milligrams of fluoride per liter of black tea, but a new study shows that number could be as high as 9 milligrams. The average person ingests a very safe amount --say 2 to 3 milligrams daily-- through fluoridated drinking water, toothpaste and food.

"The additional fluoride from drinking two to four cups of tea a day won't harm anyone; it's the very heavy tea drinkers who could get in trouble," said Dr. Gary Whitford, Regents Professor of oral biology in the School of Dentistry.

Is Fluoride Good Or Bad?
Although fluoride is known to help prevent dental cavities, but long-term ingestion of excessive amounts could cause bone problems. It would take ingesting about 20 milligrams a day over 10 or more years before posing a significant risk to bone health.

Most published studies about black tea have traditionally used a method of measuring fluoride that doesn't account for the amount that combines with aluminum to form insoluble aluminum fluoride, which is not detected by the fluoride electrode. Whitford compared that method with a diffusion method, which breaks the aluminum-fluoride bond so that all fluoride in the tea samples can be extracted and measured.

The new information shouldn't deter tea drinkers, as the beverage is safe and some teas even have health benefits, Dr. Whitford said. "The bottom line is to enjoy your favorite tea, but like everything else, drink it in moderation."

Editors Note: If you live in a state or county that does not mandate fluoride in drinking water, you have almost nothing to fear about consuming significant amounts of black tea. In fact, the vast majority of dental professionals will tell you that any dangers posted by the consumption of large amounts of fluoride pale in comparison to the health benefit fluoride provides by reducing oral disease in people, especially for those in low-income families that rarely get to see a dentist.

Related Blog Posts
Tea For Two Is Good For You ( Oct 16, 2008 )
What Is Fluoride and What Does It Do? ( Aug 7, 2009 )
Fluoridated Water Benefits People Of All Ages ( Jan 27, 2008 )

Aflac Unveils Dental Insurance Option

2010-07-08T15:36:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
Insurance-Business-Review.com is reporting that supplemental insurer Aflac has introduced a dental insurance option to companies that it says will reduce the hassle of network restrictions, deductibles or annual premium reviews for employees.

According to Alfac, its new voluntary insurance product provides efficient benefits to employees at no cost to employer and also with no administrative burden. The employers will not have to negotiate deductibles, copayments or provider networks using new voluntary offerings.

The features of this dental plan include: no networks where policyholders have freedom to choose any dentist without restriction; no deductibles for any qualifying treatment; and no annual premium reviews as policy rates do not increase based on utilization or group demographics.

Tom Giddens, SVP and co-director of sales at Aflac, said: "An increasing number of employers are looking at dental insurance as a key factor in a benefits package and Aflac's dental offering helps them provide excellent options for their employees without any direct cost to the company. In addition, Aflac's dental product eliminates many of the administrative headaches associated with traditional insurance offerings and lets employers stay focused on running their business. It also helps keep employees productive and feeling secure knowing they have benefits they can rely on."

Related Blog Posts
Dental Insurance Or Discount Plan? ( April 1, 2010 )
Dental Insurance Can Actually Save You Money ( September 18, 2009 )
Dental Insurance vs. Orthodontist Insurance ( July 12, 2008 )
The 3 Most Important Tips When Selecting a Dental Plan ( May 17, 2007 )

Common Myths About Root Canals

2010-07-02T15:10:00.000-04:00

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Root Canals Are Usually Painful.
The root canal procedure itself is painless. A local anesthetic numbs the tooth and the surrounding area. Many people may be afraid to have a root canal because they are anxious about having dental work done. Dentists can provide calming medications, such as nitrous oxide.

"When people are told that they need a root canal treatment, they usually think about pain," says Gunnar Hasselgren, D.D.S., Ph.D., professor of endodontics and director of endodontics at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine. "However, the pain they feel is caused by an infection in the tooth, not by root canal treatment. A root canal is done to eliminate that pain."

Root Canals Are Useless Because I'm Just Going To Need The Tooth Taken Out Eventually?
"It is not correct to assume that the treated tooth will eventually need to be extracted," Dr. Hasselgren says. "The whole point of root canal therapy is to try to save a tooth, not to remove it. In fact, most root canal treatments are successful and result in the tooth being saved."

I Don't Need A Root Canal Because I'm Not Feeling Any Pain.
"Most teeth that need root canal therapy will not cause pain. But that does not mean the tooth is OK," Dr. Hasselgren says. Your dentist and endodontist have ways to see if the tooth's pulp is damaged or infected. If it is, then you will need root canal therapy, even if the tooth doesn't hurt.

If you see something near a damaged tooth that looks like a pimple, see your dentist. This "pimple" -called a sinus tract- is a tunnel of tissue draining pus from an infection. It can come and go. The infection must be treated, and the tooth probably needs root canal therapy. Without treatment, nearby tissues may be damaged.

A Root Canal Means I'm Having The Roots Of My Tooth Removed.
Your tooth and roots are not removed. The canals are cleaned and shaped on the inside only. "During root canal treatment, the inside of your tooth is treated, not the outside," Dr. Hasselgren says. "The endodontist removes the pulp, located in the center of the tooth."

Related Blog Posts
Saving A Tooth Not Always Better Than An Implant ( September 2, 2009 )
Dental Implants = More Visits Than Root Canals ( November 22, 2008 )

Are Dentists Drilling Teeth When They Don't Need To?

2010-06-24T11:34:00.005-04:00

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Dental News
The University of Sydney (Australia) Dental School just concluded a three-year controlled trial and concluded that many private practice dentists persist drilling and filling tooth surfaces which have the capacity to heal, leading to repeated and costly dental treatment, despite over 30 years of research implying the contrary.

The controlled trial found that a non-invasive program was effective in reducing the incidence of new and recurrent decay over the three years of the study by more than 40 percent. These results were independent of age, gender, medical status, fluoride history, or previous history of dental caries, in a population of patients attending for treatment in private dental practices. Further, it appears in patients categorized at medium to high risk of developing dental decay, that the program was reasonably cost-effective when compared to existing dental care practice.

The objective of this randomized controlled trial was to review the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of a non-invasive approach to the management of dental caries within a variety of private dental practices in Australia.

Related Blog Posts
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Lavender Scent Calms Dental Patients ( September 8, 2008 )

Dental Health's Online "Cool Tool"

2010-06-17T16:17:00.000-04:00

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Dental Health News
I recently came across an interesting online tool which one can use to improve their overall dental health as it helps them understand what they can do to prevent dental disease, what treatments are the most effective and what typical dental procedures will cost them in their State.

It's called the Dental Optimizer and it can be used to learn how prevention will directly benefit their - whether it means fewer oral health issues, less time in the dentist's chair, or lower out-of pocket costs.

Developed by Dentists Management Corporation (DMC), this free online oral health application is regularly updated and recently added a pharmacy module that allows patients to find out if the medications they are taking may impact their oral health such as learning about the side effects of their medications.

However, it should be noted that I found the recommendations generated by the website's questionnaire -which I accessed using my personal dental health information- to be fairly generalized and certainly not as detailed as you would get from visiting your dentist. Still, I found the feature that compares the average dental pricing in a given State to be quite useful, especially because it gives you three prices; an average high, and average low and a median price.

Also, it should be noted that DMC is a subsidiary of ODS which provides, among other things, dental insurance benefits so if you choose to use the website's "Dental Directory" option, it's very likely going to list only those dentists that they have a financial incentive to list, not necessarily the best, most experienced dentists.

I'm just saying.

Related Blog Posts
How Bad Is Your Gum Disease? This Quiz Will Tell (November 1, 2008)

Survey Finds 45 Million Americans Lack Dental Insurance

2010-06-10T11:37:00.004-04:00

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Dental News
A survey done by the U.S. National Center for Health Statistics found that almost three-quarters (73%) of Americans under 65 years old had some type of dental coverage in 2008, leaving 45 million with no coverage.

The survey found that among those with dental coverage, one third (33%) had a comprehensive health insurance plan that covered dental care, 26% of those surveyed had a stand-alone dental plans while 14% had both types of dental coverage. Among those with employer-sponsored care, just 20 percent lacked a dental plan.

The survey revealed that about 80% of people with employer-based private health insurance had dental including in their coverage while only 30% of those who purchased health insurance privately had dental coverage in their plan.

The survey also confirmed the widely held belief among health care professionals that the higher a person's income and/or education level, the more likely they were to have dental coverage with roughly 40% of those without a high school education having no dental insurance coverage of any kind. When broken down by ethnicity, the survey found that blacks were more likely to have dental insurance than whites, Asians or Hispanics.

"A primary indicator of access to dental care in the United States is dental insurance. Previous studies have shown that persons with private dental insurance have more dental visits in the previous year than persons without private dental insurance," wrote Barbara Bloom and Robin A. Cohen of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Center for Health Statistics, Division of Health Interview Statistics.

Related Blog Posts
Could Health Care Reform Make Family Dental Coverage Worse? (Oct 14, 2009)
Dental Insurance Can Actually Save You Money (Sept 18, 2009)
How To Deal With Dental Exclusions (Jan 10, 2009)
The 3 Most Important Tips When Selecting a Dental Plan (May 27, 2007)

Eating Yogurt Reduces Childhood Tooth Decay 22%

2010-06-03T11:11:00.001-04:00

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Dental News
New research published in the Journal of Dentistry, about a young children who consumed yogurt or times a week or more reduce the chances of developing cavities by 22% compared to those who needed less than once a week. The report came from a Japanese study which was investigating earlier claims that dairy foods generally could ward off dental decay in children.

The research, by experts at Fukuoka University and the University of Tokyo, supports earlier work by Australian scientists who exposed extracted teeth to yogurt and found it kept decay at bay.

Only Yogurt, Though
The results showed a clear link with yogurt but not with other popular dairy products as butter, cheese and milk appeared to have no major benefit, high consumption of yogurt did have a protective effect in young children.

It's not clear why yogurt reduces the need for fillings. But one theory is that it contains proteins that 'bind' to the surface of teeth and seals them against attack from harmful acids. This seal means the calcium and phosphate which makes up tooth enamel is not broken down over time.

Be Warned, Though
But British Dental Health Foundation chief executive Dr Nigel Carter warned parents not to jump to any final conclusions. "It should be remembered that many yogurts in the UK contain added sugar and it is well established that increasing the frequency of sugar containing foods and drinks leads to an increase in dental decay," said Carter. "Yogurts are also quite thick and will tend to coat the teeth for longer which can also lead to problems. If parents wish to increase their children's yogurt intake it is therefore important that this be confined to meal times."

Related Blog Posts
Parents Don't Realize Their Kid's Teeth Are Eroding ( June 11, 2009 )

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New York Mechanic's Lien Law
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New Teeth Can Now Be Grown In 9 Weeks

2010-05-29T10:46:00.000-04:00

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Dental News
A revolutionary new technique based on the use of stem cells promises in just nine weeks to rebuild a tooth “true” anatomically perfect.

The technique has been presented in the Journal of Dental Research by a team of doctors at the College of Dental Medicine. This is a promising development for the use of stem cells which, according to the authors, allows reconstruction of biological substitutes in all respects the same as our teeth have been lost. It ‘a technique both for advanced tissue engineering is the so-called regenerative medicine laboratory, prepared by Dr. Jeremy Mao and Dr. Edward V. Zegarelli, who, through the use of stem cells and their subsequent growth on a three-dimensional scaffold, will take around 9 weeks in the perfect anatomical shape of a tooth which is then implanted in the mouth.

The people who have lost some or all of their teeth in adulthood, usually opting for a rack, or, more recently, for dental implants. Indeed, living without teeth is not only an aesthetic problem but may also bring a range of serious gastrointestinal diseases, since the first stage of digestion happens in your mouth. Moreover, both the dentures, and implants are patterns, usually made of synthetic material, that emulate the lost tooth but they are obviously real teeth. Moreover, no sensitivity at all (in some cases, as in many sadly know, not always a disadvantage). Moreover, the most recent installations include the anchor teeth to the jaw or jaw by screws, but are unable to remodel as do natural teeth with changes that would be required during the life of the facial bones.

A study of an animal model showed that stem cells infused and cultivated orthotopically in a scaffold made of natural materials and integrated into surrounding tissue, reinforcing perfectly with the surrounding tissue, which instead not the case with metals or other hard materials.

While the implant surgery can be performed as an outpatient procedure, timing of planting is very variable and require more visits to general dentists and oral surgeons. Generally, to complete the operation will take anywhere from two to six months, unless further complications. In this case, including the necessary care and subsequent replanting may also pass 18 months.

Green Dentistry Tripling Dentists Bottom Line

2010-05-21T10:14:00.001-04:00

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Dental News
In 2003 dentist Dr. Fred Pockrass and his wife Ida embarked upon a path to create a profitable model for dental offices with the goal of reducing waste, lowering operating costs and improvement their patient’s health interests. Today their pioneer efforts are an example of an emerging market segment called green dentistry.

Just The (Bottom Line) Facts
Natural Logic’s analysis of the Pockrass green dentist office found $50,000 of annual cost savings sourced from $2,237 a year achieved by converting to reusable cloth items, $601 a year by switching to energy efficient lighting, and $37,000 a year by abandoning amalgam filling materials, which contain 50% mercury. The Pockrass also experienced a revenue upside from marketing to value based consumers. Their green dental office now ranks among the top 5% of all American dental offices in annual revenue.

"Green dentistry has finally arrived," explains Ina Pockrass, CEO of Transcendentist, Inc., a professional green dental products company and co-creator of the country’s first green dental office. Green dentistry is pioneering innovations in the following key areas:

1. Reusable alternatives to plastic sterilization items and patient barriers reduce this waste and lowers dental office operating costs. "Our reusable sterilization pouches cost only $.10 per use while disposable versions cost $.20 per use. That’s a win for the environment and the pocketbook," Ina explains. In addition, a typical dental practice using conventional x-ray systems will generate a waste stream of lead foil and toxic x-ray development chemical waste. Green dental offices use digital imaging that eliminates the x-ray waste stream while also reducing a patient’s radiation exposure by 75% to 90%.

2. Green dentistry offices also focus on reducing energy consumption and related emissions through deployment of energy efficient lighting, installation of energy efficient heating/cooling equipment and the expanded use of natural light.

3. Rather than the typical wall of paper patient charts, green dentists use digital patient records and electronic patient communications. They use email and text to confirm patient appointments and conduct their patient outreach through electronic rather than paper newsletter. To the extent paper is used, the goal is to use 100% recycled paper and to set the office copiers to run double-sided.

The Growth Of Eco-Dentistry
Based upon this growing level of benefits documentation dentists are increasingly viewing green dentistry as an emerging opportunity. Today there is an Eco-dentistry Association (EDA). The EDA is a resource for dentists on best practices in green dentistry including a GreenDoc green dental office certification program focused upon waste reduction, pollution prevention, energy and water conservation, and wellness. The EDA also offers educational outreach to consumers on the benefits of earth-friendly dental practices and a website-listing of members enabling a consumer’s search for a nearby green dentist. Currently, EDA’s membership has grown to 500 participating members.

Nasal Spray Could Replace The Anesthetic Needle

2010-05-15T15:44:00.002-04:00

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Dental News
How Paying Through The Nose Can Be A Good Thing
The American Chemical Society's journal Molecular Pharmaceutics is reporting in the May/June issue that a common local anesthetic, when administered to the nose as nose drops or a nasal spray, discovery could lead to new intranasal drugs for noninvasive treatment for dental pain.

The approach could provide a more effective and targeted method for treating dental pain/anxiety, trigeminal neuralgia (severe facial pain), migraine, and other painful conditions, the scientists say.

Having A Nose For Advances In Dental Pain Treatment
Researcher Neil Johnson, working in the labs of Frey and Leah R. Hanson, Ph.D. at Regions Hospital in Minnesota, found that lidocaine or Xylocaine, sprayed into the noses of laboratory rats, quickly traveled down the trigeminal nerve and collected in their teeth, jaws, and mouths at levels 20 times higher than in the blood or brain.

William H. Frey II, Ph.D., and colleagues note that drugs administered to the nose travel along nerves and go directly to the brain. One of those nerves is the trigeminal nerve, which brings feelings to the face, nose and mouth. Until now, however, scientists never checked to see whether intranasal drugs passing along that nerve might reach the teeth, gums and other areas of the face and mouth to reduce dental pain in the face and mouth.

Related Blog Posts
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How Wall Street Reform Can Hurt Those Getting Braces, Expensive Dental Work

2010-05-06T16:32:00.003-04:00

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Dental News
The financial regulation reform bill proposed by the Obama administration includes some hurtful provisions for dental providers and their patients according to Senator Jim DeMint (R-SC), an outspoken opponent of the President.

According to Senator DeMint, the current bill will force dental providers that allow customers to make payments in more than four installments or who charge any type of late fees to be treated the same terms as AIG and Goldman Sachs. This will have the greatest impact on those receiving expensive dental procedures such as braces, dentures and other types of cosmetic-related dentistry.

In addition, the bill before Congress will creates a new Consumer Financial Protection Agency, housed in the Federal Reserve, which will regulate these types of transactions and could subject dental providers to further regulatory burden.

Senator DeMint contends that the financial regulation bill was supposed to crack down on Wall Street abuses but will instead hurt Main Street health care providers as well as those Americans who struggle to find ways to pay for expensive dental work.

According to BracesInfo.com, the average price for orthodontic braces in the United States is $5,400. Many if not most patients receiving braces usually pay for them in installments, thereby allowing them to avoid putting the braces on their credit card with their double-digit interest rates.

Related Blog Posts
Could Health Care Reform Make Family Dental Coverage Worse? ( October 14, 2009 )
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Periodontal Disease Linked To High Blood Pressure & High Cholesterol

2010-04-29T13:34:00.002-04:00

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Dental News
The Journal of Periodontology recently published a study that found that people with signs of periodontal disease are more likely to develop high blood pressure and risky cholesterol levels.

Researchers from the Nihon University School of Dentistry in Tokyo conducted the study that included 1,023 adults who had both dental and medical checkups between 2002 and 2006 and showed no signs of metabolic syndrome (defined as a group of factors that increase the risk of heart disease and stroke). The study also revealed that test subjects with periodontal disease (a.k.a. gum disease) were even more likely to develop high blood pressure during the study itself.

Other studies have linked periodontal disease with metabolic syndrome. A study in 2008 looked at nearly 14,000 American adults. Metabolic syndrome was found in 18% of people with mild gum disease. It was found in 34% of those with moderate gum disease and 37% of those with severe disease.

Previously, studies have linked periodontal disease with risks for artery disease, heart disease and stroke.

Related Blog Posts
Periodontal Disease Especially Dangerous To Diabetics ( November 4, 2009 )
New Study Further Strengthens Link between Gum Disease and Early Indicators Of Cardiovascular Disease ( March 9, 2007 )

How To Get Free Dental Care? Just Don't Pay!

2010-04-23T10:12:00.004-04:00

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Dental News
Everyone is looking for ways to save money at the dentist (I even wrote an article about this on my website), but one Georgia woman took the idea of dental discounts way too far.

Employees at Downtown Dental --a dental office in Augusta, Georgia-- filed a theft of services report with the Richmond County Sheriff's office alleging that Kathleen Noreika, 38, of Graniteville, Georgia left the office without paying after having $646 worth of dental work done on April 8, 2010.

An employee of Downtown Dental told the sheriff's office that Ms. Noreika executed her theft by claiming she had to go out to her car for her purse in order to pay the dentist's bill but after leaving, never returned.

Related Blog Posts
Where To Find Free/Low Cost Dental Care ( October 5, 2009 )
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"Finding a Dentist" Meets Smartphones

2010-04-15T10:02:00.003-04:00

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Dental News
Assurant Employee Benefits has introduced a new applications to help its dental plan members find a participating dentist. Known as Find-a-Dentist, the application uses GoogleMaps technology to connect iPhone®, Android and (very soon) BlackBerry® users with dentists in proximity to their location. This new application is a first of its kind in the employee benefits industry.

Industry-First Application
Currently Assurant Employee Benefits is the only insurance benefits carrier offering smartphone technology in this way. Find-a-Dentist is a free download available to all Assurant Employee Benefits customers with smartphones and provides updates on Company news as well as Twitter feeds.

"We always look for ways to keep our products and communications relevant to our customers and sales force, and the way they use technology is always changing," says Todd Rever, vice president of professional services. "It's very gratifying to be able to provide an industry-first tool that will help Assurant Employee Benefits connect in a new and meaningful way."

Related Blog Posts
The Death Of 1-800-Dentist ( August 31, 2007 )

Electronic Tooth Decay Detector May Be Better Than A Real Dentist

2010-04-07T10:02:00.001-04:00

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Dental News
A new tooth decay detector device may help dentists detect tooth decay earlier than traditional methods.

The device, called CarieScan PRO, was developed by scientists in Scotland and clips onto the mouth and passes a small electrical current through the teeth. Traffic light type colours then turn on to indicate the level of decay, which give health experts a correct status of the problem.

"What I've been able to do is diagnose decay early and make sure it's treated with fluoride varnish rather than putting in a filling", said London-based dentist Dr. Martin Delahaye after using the CarieScan PRO.

"The CarieScan PRO is an interesting innovation, and it's great too, that the concept and design comes from a UK company", said Professor Damien Walmsley, scientific advisor to the British Dental Association. "We look forward to seeing the results of future clinical trials to establish its benefits."

Related Blog Posts
Soundwaves May Detect Early Dental Decay (August 24, 2009)

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Dental Insurance Or Discount Plan?

2010-04-01T10:18:00.002-04:00

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Tamara E. Holmes of Bankrate.com

Dental care is expensive, making dental insurance almost mandatory if you want a healthy mouth.

But Medicare doesn't include a dental insurance plan, and many employers either do not provide dental insurance or they are scaling back their offerings, leaving consumers to pay for dental care on their own. As a result, many consumers are going without. A 2009 poll by Harris Interactive and HealthDay found that 30 percent of U.S. adults with health insurance did not visit a dentist because of the prohibitive costs. Of those who were uninsured, more than half required dental care, but costs kept them away.

If your employer doesn't offer dental insurance, you can buy an individual policy, paying anywhere from $225 to $396 per year in premiums. However, another alternative is the discount dental plan, a membership-based network offering discounted dental services from select providers.

Analyzing The Differences
With dental insurance, consumers typically pay a monthly premium and a deductible before insurance kicks in, but even after the deductible, "policies vary widely on co-pay requirements. Some policies have no co-pay while others require the consumer to pay a substantial portion," says Lou Geremia, president of InsureMe.com.

Dental insurance plans also often come with a coverage cap, meaning consumers are only insured for about $1,200 to $1,500 per year. Once the dental patient exceeds that amount, he or she pays out of pocket. Consumers who go the insurance route also get the benefit of oversight from their state department of insurance, which could prove helpful if they have insurance complaints.

With discount dental plans, consumers typically pay an enrollment fee and an annual fee of about $80 to $120 per year and get access to discounted services from member providers. Discounts can range anywhere from 10 percent to 60 percent, says Buddy Johnson, chief executive officer of DentalPlans.com, a discount dental plan provider. Because there are no deductibles or caps to worry about, consumers aren't limited by the number of services they receive in a given year, and there's also no paperwork to fill out for reimbursements. For those seeking cosmetic services, discount dental plans may be the way to go since they often cover cosmetic dentistry, while insurance plans typically don't.

Different But Still Similar
When it comes to selecting an insurance plan or a discount dental plan, some of the same rules apply.

"Because the differences between plans are so great, it is important for the consumer to completely research and understand what services are covered before signing anything. It is also important to verify that any preferred dentist is part of the plan selected," says Geremia.

Related Blog Posts
Tips on Buying Dental Plans Online ( July 4, 2007 )
Dental Insurance vs. Orthodontist Insurance ( July 12, 2008 )

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Teledentistry Is (Almost) Here

2010-03-25T13:27:00.008-04:00

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Dental News
Technology is improving dentistry in every way except getting people to go to the dentist more often. Now even that is going to change because of Teledentistry which is --at least for the moment-- the process by which either a dental hygienist or dental assistant visits a school, nursing home or community center and then have a dentist review patients' dental records remotely at the office.

"This couldn't have been done five years ago, because the technology wasn't there yet," said Dr. Paul Glassman, professor of dental practice at Pacific's Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco and director of the Virtual Dental Home project which is using teledentistry to provide dental care to underserved communities throughout California.

Teledentistry Pilot Project
The goal of this four-year pilot project is to demonstrate that less costly teledentistry can be with registered dental hygienists using portable X-rays and specialized digital cameras to take images of the patient's teeth as a way to improve the dental health of the community by providing education, preventive care, interim therapeutic restorations triage and case management.

After reviewing the patients' records within 48 hours, dentists will then be able to recommend a plan for providing care. The dental hygienists and dental assistants can then perform some preventive and restorative treatments for patients in the community setting. Patients needing further treatment by a dentist will be provided assistance in getting to a dentist's office or clinic for completion of the recommended treatment.

"There are large numbers of people that are not getting good access to dental care. As we age, the number is getting larger and we're getting further behind. And more people are keeping their teeth as they get older," Glassman said. "The solution is not going to be doing the same things we've always done in the future. We need to build a bridge between the traditional model and future services. This can become a mainstream part of the way we do things."

Related Blog Posts
Therapists To Help Rural Dental Care Crises ( December 18, 2009 )

Tooth Fairy Payouts at an All-Time High?

2010-03-20T11:23:00.002-04:00

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Dental News
In the fairy world, the economy is apparently just fine, thank you.

According to Delta Dental of Minnesota which polls 200,000 people across the country, nationally the tooth fairy is leaving $2.13 per tooth. That’s a 13% increase over last year’s average of $1.88. Some have said that if you look at how much the tooth fairy is leaving children it tends to match the trend of the economy.

So how much does the tooth fairy leave at your home? Add your thoughts below by taking part in the tooth fairy poll.

Related Blog Posts
The Tooth Fairy: A History ( November 21, 2009 )

ADA Trying To Improve Access To Dental Care

2010-03-12T10:46:00.000-05:00

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Dental News
Earlier this month, American Dental Association (ADA) President Dr Ronald Tankersley testified before the Institute of Medicine Committee on Oral Health Access to Services (IOM), explaining the ways that the organization is working to improve access to dental care for underserved populations.

Before outlining the ADA's new initiatives, Tankersley heavily criticized the IOM for its recent decision to exclude private practice dentists from two U.S. Department of Health and Human Services panels put together to study the nation's oral health delivery system.

"The nation's 167,000 private practice dentists represent some 92% of professionally active dentists in the United States," he stated. "Without them, there can be no significant impact on access to oral health care, regardless of the delivery system."

Tankersley recommended that the IOM create a public health advisory committee to study dental health policy as well as implement an association-wide initiative to address dental health needs of the vulnerable elderly as well as lobbying the committee to support federal programs that could effectively improve access to dental care for the underprivileged.

Another way for underserved populations to have better access to dental care is to make it less expensive such as with a "discount dental plan" rather than the much more expensive dental insurance policy. For more information on the differences between dental insurance and discount plans, call DentalPlans.com at 1-888-571-3856.

Related Blog Posts
ADA Hosts Summit On Access To Dental Care ( March 28, 2009 )

Does Your Dental Work Taste Funny Lately?

2010-03-04T16:29:00.003-05:00

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Dental News
Did you know that according to the American Dental Association, 20% of all dental implant devices are manufactured outside the United States and that an increasing number of dental bridges and crowns are being manufactured in countries with little or no laws to restrict the materials they are he used in their manufacture?

Chances are, you didn't.

"This is very dangerous in my opinion and we don't have any idea of the ramifications and we won't for many years from now," says Dr. Craig Spodak of Delray Beach, FL. "A lot of these crowns have nickel and beryllium, two caustic, potentially cancer-causing metals."

Dr. Spodak's Delray Beach office is one of the few left in the country, he says, where customized lab-work is still being done on the premises. That, he says, gives him control over the materials being used.

The US Food and Drug Administration and the ADA are both investigating reports that materials used by some of those foreign manufacturers may contain high levels of lead and other dangerous metals. Although the FDA says it does not believe imported crowns pose a significant public health risk, the head of the ADA says he's actually worried that the growing number of reports on the topic may cause some patients to skip treatment that they really need.

The best advice is to speak with your dentist, and if you have concerns, ask where your dental work is being manufactured. Dr. Spodak believes more patients must be informed they have that right and urges all dental patients to ask your dentist the following question; "What lab are you using and where it's located?"

Related Blog Posts
Dental Tourism: More Costly Than Going To Your Dentist? ( January 10, 2010 )

Setting the Record Straight on Dental Amalgams

2010-02-25T10:55:00.000-05:00

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( Reprinted from the Huffingtonpost.com )
By Ronald L. Tankersley, D.D.S., Pres. American Dental Association

The American Dental Association (ADA) disputes many of the health claims made in Mark Hyman's February 20th post, "Mercury: How to Get This Lethal Poison Out of Your Body."

The author's characterization of dental amalgam is factually inaccurate. Dental amalgam, made by combining elemental mercury with other metals such as silver, copper and tin, has been used effectively by dentists to fill cavities for more than a century. Dental amalgam is the most thoroughly researched and tested restorative material among all those in use.

After reviewing hundreds of scientific studies, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in July 2009 decided not to place any restriction on the use of dental amalgam and categorized dental amalgam as a class II medical device. This designation places dental amalgam in the same class as gold and tooth-colored composite dental fillings. In addition, the FDA noted that clinical studies have not established a causal link between dental amalgam and adverse health effects in adults and children age six and older.

Many other U.S. and international scientific and health bodies such as the National Institutes of Health, the U.S. Public Health Service, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization have stated that based on peer-reviewed scientific evidence, dental amalgam is a safe, durable and effective cavity-filling material. In its 2009 review of the scientific literature on amalgam safety, the ADA's Council on Scientific Affairs reaffirmed that the scientific evidence continues to support amalgam as a valuable, viable and safe choice for dental patients. In addition, because dental amalgam sets quickly, it can be the best filling material for some children and people with special needs to limit their treatment time, thereby avoiding the need for anesthesia.

The author skews the conclusions of published scientific research in order to make his headline appear credible, but the fact is the story is grossly inaccurate. The ADA is a science-based organization. The facts culled from years of scientific research, coupled with the FDA's recent decision, underscore what the ADA has long supported -- dental amalgam is a safe and effective dental filling material.

The ADA encourages patients to talk to their dentists about the treatment options so they can make educated decisions regarding their dental care.

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Dentists Could Soon Be Able To Detect Pancreatic Cancer

2010-02-18T15:21:00.000-05:00

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Dental News
In a just-released study, researchers successfully linked changes found in human saliva to the presence of early-stage pancreatic cancer putting dental health professionals on the front line in the battle against the so-called "worst cancer" pancreatic.

A multidisciplinary group of investigators at the UCLA School of Dentistry, the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, the UCLA School of Public Health and UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center has demonstrated the usefulness of salivary diagnostics in the effort to find and fight the disease.

"Worldwide, the prevalence of pancreatic cancer is so high, and the disease is so deadly, that it calls out for a reliable means of early diagnosis," said the study's senior investigator, David Wong, UCLA Professor of Dentistry and associate dean of research at the dental school. "The ability to implement safe, cost-effective, widespread screening could be the answer to saving thousands of lives each year."

"Not only are these saliva-based diagnostic methods for pancreatic cancer simple and noninvasive, they may also represent an improvement in specificity and sensitivity over currently used procedures, such as blood tests, for early pancreatic cancer detection," said James Farrell, Director of the Pancreatic Diseases Program at UCLA.

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How Dental Science Affected This Year's Super Bowl

2010-02-12T12:11:00.000-05:00

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DENTAL NEWS: Did you know that 35 members of the Super Bowl winning New Orleans Saints wore custom mouth guards that utilized the latest in Neuromuscular dentistry science?

Did you know that these cool new mouth guards probably played little if any role in helping the Saints beat the Colts 31-17 last Sunday?

Last September, these 35 New Orleans Saints players were fit using the J5 Myomonitor -- a special unit designed by Myotronics, Inc. -- to relax the muscles of the face so as to better to find the optimal biting position. Once this 'perfect position' is pinpointed, a dental impression is taken and the mouth guard is fabricated. With the jaw in the optimal position athletes have reported better range of motion, flexibility and balance as well as improved body posture.

This isn't the first time Neuromuscular dentistry has been in the spotlight. The Myotronics, Inc. company's Neuromuscular dentistry system has been featured in both the USA TODAY newspaper and on Monday night football by ESPN football commentator Jon Gruden.

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DENTAL VIEWS: Maybe my beloved New York Giants football team will utilize these new mouth guards next year to improve upon their dismal record they had this past season.

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Baby Oral Health Tips Via The ADA

2010-02-04T10:47:00.001-05:00

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Dental News
Seeing as how February is National Children's Dental Health Month (and you thought it was only Black History month), the American Dental Association (ADA) has issued several tips on the importance that proper dental care plays in the future health of children, in particular when they're still babies.

The ADA recommends that parents act proactively in this critic stage of a child's development to insure the health of their children's teeth because attitudes and habits established at such an early age are critical in maintaining good oral health throughout life.

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
Baby bottle tooth decay can destroy your child's teeth. It occurs when a child is frequently exposed to sugary liquids such as milk, including breast milk, fruit juice and other sweet liquids. The ADA recommends the following steps to prevent your child from getting baby bottle tooth decay.

* Begin clearing your baby's mouth during the first few days after birth. After every feeding, wipe the baby's gums with a damp washcloth or gauze pad to remove plaque.

* Never allow your child to nurse or breast feed for prolonged periods and don't give him or her a bottle with milk, formula, sugar water or fruit juice during naps or at night in bed.

* Help your child develop good eating habits early and choose sensible, nutritious snacks.

* Encourage children to drink from a cup by their first birthday.

* Discourage frequent use of a training cup.

Baby's First Dentist Visit
The ADA recommends regular dental check-ups, including a visit to the dentist within six months of the eruption of the first tooth, and no later than the child's first birthday. Preventive care such as cleanings and fluoride treatment provide your child with "smile" insurance. Routine dental exams uncover problems that can be treated in the early stages, when damage is minimal and restorations may be small. When necessary, X-rays are taken to see how the teeth are developing and to spot hidden decay.

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Medical Screenings & Dental Cleanings

2010-01-28T12:19:00.005-05:00

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Dental News: New survey says dentists don't mind "playing doctor" with their patients.
Don't be surprised if the next time you visit your dentist you hear words uttered such as "Are you getting enough exercise" or "Have you had any unprotected sex lately or shared any dirty needles" in addition to the usual "Open wide" and "Okay, rinse".

According to the January issue of the Journal of the American Dental Association, a new study finds that dentists are willing to screen their patients for common medical conditions and, if necessary, refer them to a general physician.

Survey Says...
Most of the dentists surveyed said it was very or somewhat important for dentists to conduct screenings for high blood pressure (86%), cardiovascular disease (77%), Diabetes (77%), Hepatitis (72%) and HIV (69%). Most were willing to collect saliva samples, measure blood pressure and take a patient's blood by finger stick. Nearly all (96%) were willing to refer patients to a physician for follow-up.

In addition, nearly three quarters of those dentists surveyed were willing to discuss the results of these screenings with their patients during the same dental visit... as well as recommending sugarless gum for their patients who chew gum.

(Note: That last sentence about chewing gum was not part of the study. I added it for humor sake.)

Researchers from two universities and the American Dental Association performed this study. The 1,945 dentists who were surveyed were roughly 85% male, white and had been practicing for more than 10 years. Why the survey asked dentists their gender and racial identity eludes this writer but... whatever.

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