Tips Instead of Tricks for the Kickoff of Sugar Season

The real danger this season is not the spooks and goblins, but the sugary treats they bring. Halloween ushers in the season of high sugar consumption as the winter holidays follow close on its heels. The season always ranks high in dentistry news because of the assault all the sugar brings to the teeth of children, making them at risk for the development of cavities.

So, what is the real danger of sugar anyway? Our mouths always have bacteria present in them, and when that bacteria comes in contact with sugar, they produce acids that can break down tooth enamel. After sugar is consumed, it can take up to 60 minutes for the saliva in the mouth to neutralize the acid. This means that teeth are under attack for almost an hour each time sugar is consumed. Break down of tooth enamel eventually causes the tooth decay that results in cavities.

You have probably heard of the campaign this holiday by dentists across the country offering to buy candy back from kids and donate it to soldier’s oversees. This is a good start, and makes great dentistry news, but cavity prevention begins at home, and NY dental professionals offer some tips to help protect your child’s teeth.

Since each exposure to sugar puts teeth at risk for up to an hour, do not let your child munch on candy throughout the day. When sugar is consumed continually, the mouth has no time to recover from the attack. If this takes place after the child has already started getting his permanent teeth, this can cause long term damage which could lead to serious dental issues later in life, including dental implants. NYC dentists recommend allowing your child to consume several pieces of candy in one setting versus spread throughout the day.

Another idea is to limit candy intake to around meal time. More saliva is flowing during a meal, allowing the mouth to neutralize acids more quickly. Make candy or dessert eating a special thing, reserved for a certain time of day following a meal. This will allow the mouth to recover quickly. It may also give mom a break from sugar-hyped kids all the time!Of course one of the biggest tooth decay fighters is proper brushing and flossing of teeth. Make sure that the busyness of the holidays does not cause a break in your child’s usual teeth brushing routine. This is a big factor in fighting tooth decay.

Finally, consider bringing your child in to see your dentist after the holidays. A quick check up will catch any tooth decay early, preventing major work later on. Follow these tips and keep the sugar goblins at bay this holiday season!

Grinding and Clenching

Unexplained soreness of the jaw or neck muscles and persistent headaches could be an indication that you are suffering from bruxism, or grinding and clenching of the teeth.  The problem is treatable and more common that you may realize, even though most people are completely unaware that they do it.

Frequently, people who clench and grind their teeth do so during sleep, and learn about it from their sleep partner.    Sometimes bruxism is discovered when clients ask their dentist about pain or an odd sensation that their teeth are loose. However, the habit can create a long list of symptoms from mild to significant and can be quite destructive to the teeth themselves as well as to supporting structures, causing the gum recession and bone loss which can eventually cause teeth to be lost. Among people who chronically grind, fractured teeth and damage to the nerves which can require root canal therapy are common.  Unfortunately, this treatable behavior can exist for a long time before it is diagnosed, because many of the symptoms can be easily overlooked or ignored, and may be thought to have another cause.  Consider bringing to your dentist’s attention any of the following symptoms:

• Earache
• Headaches or Migraines
• Loose teeth
• Changes in the way your teeth fit together
• Sensitive teeth
• Tinnitus
• Gum recession
• Neck pain
• Insomnia
• Soreness of the jaw or neck

Bruxism is thought to run in families but it is also be a common response to stress, anxiety and depression. Other causes of the habit include bite problems, eating disorders, excessive alcohol use, and medical conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and obsessive compulsive disorder.  Ideally, treating bruxism involves managing or eliminating the cause but obviously, this is not always possible andtreatment for the behavior and its symptoms often focuses on interruption of the grinding, relieving stress on the jaw joint and and preventing damage to the teeth .

Careful examination of the teeth may reveal fine cracks, wear facets in the tooth anatomy, and otherwise unexplained changes in the bone around the teeth. These findings, along with a thorough medical history will help your dentist diagnose bruxism and suggest a treatment plan.  Most frequently, a hard plastic occlusal splint is custom made to fit the teeth. Worn while sleeping, this “nightguard ”  protects the teeth by covering their surface and enabling them to  glide easily.  The night guard is form-fitting, covers all of the upper teeth and  prevents them from shifting over time which ultimately prevents gradual changes in how teeth  fit together.  A different type of  FDA approved appliance called an NTI(Nociceptive Trigeminal Inhibition system)  fits only over the upper front teeth and prevents the back teeth from touching at all.  Other treatment options including biofeedback, hypnosis, dietary supplements and (rarely) Botox injections are less well known and have had mixed or questionableresults.

People who have been grinding their teeth for a long time may have significantly damaged their teeth;  in severe cases they can even be worn down to the gum line. The damage may have left teeth  sensitive and susceptible to cavities, and may have even caused changes in the shape of your face or the way you feel about your smile. The first step in addressing these issues is always to treat the  bruxism  so that no further damage occurs; and the good news is that there are several cosmetic options that can improve the function of your teeth as well as their appearance.      Your cosmetic dentist may suggest crowns, veneers or bonding as part of your complete treatment  plan.

Unexplained symptoms may not be as mysterious as you think… why not talk to your dentist about bruxism and what treatment options may be right for you?  You deserve a beautiful, pain-free smile!

The Implant Investment

According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial surgery, about 69% of adults between 35 and 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth due to an accident, gum disease, or other oral condition such as a failed root canal or tooth decay. Although people tend to be healthier and keep their teeth longer than they did in previous generations, about a quarter of adults have lost all of their permanent teeth by the time they reach age 74. Obviously, deciding how to replace a missing tooth is an issue many people encounter at some point in their lifetime. There are many good and reliable options that can be offered by a cosmetic dentist, but in many cases a dental implant may be the best choice – in fact, sometimes it is the only choice!

Traditionally, a missing tooth has been replaced by either a fixed bridge or a removable denture. Unfortunately, neither of these options is a permanent solution and typically need to be replaced about every 5 -10 years. Furthermore, since most prosthetic replacements are not as good as what Mother Nature created, these replacement options come with potential problems – even well designed prosthetics affect the teeth around them upon which they rest. Fixed bridges require that a dentist cut down adjacent teeth to form an anchor for the replacement tooth; and removable “plates” made of metal or plastic can rub or wear on the nearby teeth which serve as anchors. When there is no healthy, stable tooth to form an anchor or if the anchor fails, sometimes the tooth cannot easily be replaced.

Even when bridges and dentures are beautifully and carefully made, some consequences are just unavoidable. Over time teeth adjacent to removable dentures and bridgework become more vulnerable to decay or gum problems simply because there is a foreign body the (replacement crown or metal plate) that collects plaque. After a tooth has been lost, the bone which once held the tooth in place in the jaw is no longer needed, so it begins to slowly dissolve away in the area where the tooth once was. This natural body process, called “resorption” leads to unnatural looking spaces under bridgework and changes in the fit of a denture which can cause slipping, soreness and chronic maintenance issues. Just a couple of decades ago, these undesirable side effects were considered the lesser of two evils, and the benefits of replacing a tooth outweighed the disadvantages. Today, dental implants all but eliminate these side effects and can even restore the smile of people who once had no options. What a wonderful option for a young person who has, perhaps, lost teeth due to an accident!

A dental implant is a titanium post that is embedded into the jaw bone by a cosmetic dentist or oral surgeon in the place where a tooth is missing. Over a period of several months, the post bonds with the jaw bone to create a stable foundation upon which a final restoration is placed to achieve a natural, cosmetically appealing result… the implant stands alone and does not affect the teeth around it. An amazing feature unique to dental implants is that the body actually interprets the titanium post the same as it would the root of a natural tooth, so no natural bone loss occurs over time.

People often wonder if this procedure is right for them, and that is a good question to ask. Dental implants can be the ideal solution to replace one or more individual teeth; or they can be used to create anchors which firmly hold a full denture in place without the progressive bone resorption that is otherwise inevitable. However, not everyone is a good candidate for the procedure: Several factors must be evaluated by the dentist before deciding to place an implant. Your dentist may have to order a specialized x-ray or CT scan that provides a three dimensional image of the existing bone, to ensure that there is enough to support the titanium post. This can be particularly important if the tooth to be replaced has been missing for a long time, or if you were born without it. An implant is more likely to fail in someone who smokes because the bone does not bond as well to the implant. People with poorly controlled diabetes don’t heal as well and may require a medical evaluation to decide how best to proceed.

Everyone who considers a dental implant should be aware that good home care and plaque control are essential because gum and bone infections can -and do- develop around an implant just like they would around natural teeth that are not kept clean. This avoidable problem, known as peri-implantitis, is one of the most common causes of implant failure.

What about the cost? Obviously that is an important factor to consider in any investment. The good news is that the cost of creating and placing an implant is often similar to the cost of making a fixed bridge, and with good care and maintenance the titanium post will never need to be replaced. Occasionally the porcelain crown that is visible in the mouth may need replacement for cosmetic reasons, and this can be done relatively simply. The not-so-good news is that not every insurance company pays for dental implants at the same level that they might pay for a bridge or denture, so in some cases there can be a larger out of pocket cost. Don’t let that be a deal breaker… think of it as an investment and weigh the out of pocket cost of replacing a bridge one or more times, remaking and refitting a loose denture, or costly complications should adjacent teeth become involved.

At one time, dental implants were considered by many to be a luxury, and many insurance companies considered them to be an “experimental” procedure. Today, the procedure is common and state-of-the-art… not a luxury, but a worthwhile investment in your oral health. What are your thoughts about investing in dental implants as a tooth replacement option? Would you like to learn more about the procedure? Have you had a positive experience with implants? You might be surprised to discover that in the long run, the dental implant that costs a bit more up front is much more cost effective over the long haul, not only in terms of dollars but also in terms of your oral health and happiness.

Oral Piercing: The Price of Beauty

Body piercing is a popular form of self-expression these days, but it isn’t as safe as you may have been told. The American Dental Association opposes the practice of piercing the tissues in and around the mouth and you may want to research and think about some of the consequences that the local piercer may not know about…

Even if the piercing salon is reputable and the equipment is sterile, the human mouth is a warm, moist environment with a rich blood supply and home to literally millions of bacteria. A piercing site is an open wound, and the perfect place for bacteria to enter the blood stream and cause serious or life threatening infections such as septicemia. When these bacteria multiply in the blood stream and colonize in distant parts of the body such as the heart, they can cause endocarditis, a serious (and sometimes fatal) inflammation of the heart valves and tissues.

Common problems following piercing in and around the mouth include scar tissue, excessive drooling and speech problems. Oral jewelry may interfere with chewing or swallowing, and excessive sensitivity to metals such as eating utensils – and even your own fillings- is not uncommon. Jewelry that is accidentally bitten will likely fracture or chip tooth enamel or fillings, damage which is not just cosmetic- it can necessitate a root canal and crown or even an extraction. When jewelry consistently rubs against gum tissue, recession that exposes the roots and sometimes the bone can occur. Unfortunately, these effects are often permanent and require surgery to correct. In practical terms, some other undesirable effects of an oral piercing include

Complications of tongue piercing are very possible: Damage to the blood vessels in the tongue can cause serious blood loss; and the nerve can be easily punctured causing numbness, loss of taste or movement – damage that is sometimes temporary, but can also be permanent. After a piercing the tongue will swell, as you might expect- but occasionally the swelling is serious enough to block the airway.
If your mind is made up, and you are still sure that you want an oral piercing, there are some precautions that can make your choice safer:
• Plan ahead: Speak to your dentist (the expert in oral anatomy) for advice about the location you have chosen.
• Be sure your piercer has good references and is professional and competent. Sterile equipment and a clean environment are essential.
• Get instructions for aftercare, and follow them. Kissing, alcohol, or touching the site with unwashed hands are out of the question until it has healed, and good oral hygiene is imperative to minimize the risk of infection. There are several good over the counter, alcohol free mouth rinses that are effective at reducing bacteria. If it becomes necessary, the dentist can prescribe an effective antiseptic rinse.
• The piercing procedure and your oral jewelry should use surgical grade stainless steel, which is hypoallergenic. However, watch for inflammation (redness, swelling and pain) that doesn’t go away- this could be an indication that you are allergic to the metal in your jewelry, and you will need to remove it.
• When the tongue has been pierced, a short length of barbell is best, because it moves less and is less tempting to play with. Even tapping of jewelry against your tooth enamel can create tiny fractures

• Plastic jewelry is always preferable to metal because it is gentler and kinder to the enamel.

• As with anything else in the mouth, oral jewelry collects plaque and food particles. Remove and clean it regularly, and replace it if it becomes damaged.

• Don’t wear oral jewelry during a dental visit because it can interfere with x-rays, but do be sure to tell the dentist or hygienist about your piercing so that they can examine the site and look for possible problems.

• Most importantly, if your piercing causes any sensitivity or discomfort don`t hesitate to remove it.
• See your dentist or doctor right away if you experience symptoms of illness!

Fashion trends come and go and although most are harmless and fun, the price of being trendy may be higher than you expected. The potential cost of an oral piercing can be anything from minor cosmetic issues and sensitivity to thousands of dollars worth of repairs to the teeth, or permanent damage to the nerves and skin in the mouth. Ask yourself if the fashion statement is worth the potential long term cost. Have you experienced any negative effects as a result of oral (lip, tongue, cheek, etc.) piercings?

Senior Oral Health: Smiles For A Lifetime

Like the rest of the body, our mouth and likewise our oral health needs change as we get older; and just a few generations ago, oral disease and eventual tooth loss were expected parts of the aging process. Thanks to advancements in medicine over the past fifty years, adults expect to live longer healthier lives… and when seniors and the people who care for them are aware of their unique oral health needs, it is not unrealistic to expect to keep teeth in great shape for a lifetime of smiles!

Normal or not?

Changes in the skin, bones, circulation and immune system that affect the body also affect the mouth; and even the teeth undergo normal changes with age. Do you know what to expect?

A decline in the function of the immune system is a natural part of aging, but it is significant because it makes the body less capable of fighting infection. Everyone has both good and harmful bacteria in their mouth but as a result of the aging immune system, there is a gradual shift toward a greater number of the harmful bacteria which are responsible for gum disease, tooth decay and fungal infections such as yeast or thrush.

• The Enamel: the outer shell of the tooth is the hardest substance in the body, and it is not replenished over time. Normal wear and tear over the life span causes it to be gradually worn away, which can expose the softer dentin underneath, making teeth more vulnerable to decay. Professional fluoride treatments may be recommended to strengthen the enamel. White fillings protect exposed dentin and cosmetically enhance your appearance… a stronger and more youthful smile is possible!
• The Dentin: is the yellower, softer layer that underlies the enamel and covers the nerve of the tooth. Dentin is continually produced over the life of the tooth, and over time the tooth will naturally become darker and less sensitive to temperature. Older adults can and do have their teeth whitened with outstanding results. Usually, a cosmetic whitening procedure performed in the dental office is preferable to an over the counter product when the teeth have darkened significantly.
• The Pulp: is the core of the tooth where the nerve and blood supply are found. The pulp shrinks as we age, making teeth less sensitive overall. Cavities may be much deeper and larger before they are felt. Many people mistakenly believe that dental checkups are less important as we get older but in reality, they are more important than ever!
• The Bone: that supports the teeth should not change just because we get older. However, a person’s oral hygiene over their life span will directly impact the health of the bone over time. Periodontal (bone and gum) examinations are an important part of a routine dental checkup appointment for everyone. People who have had gum disease should have their bone level monitored more frequently, especially if they have difficulty fighting infections.
• The Gums: lose collagen and connective tissue with age. Just like the skin of the rest of the body, the gums become thinner, more fragile, more susceptible to injury and infection, and may take longer to heal.

Common problems

Normal physiological changes may leave older adults vulnerable to oral complications… declining eyesight, failing memory and even arthritis may make self-care more challenging and those professional checkups much more critical. Chronic conditions such as diabetes, osteoporosis, and circulatory problems are often associated with aging and these can these have a major impact the health of the mouth as well. Regular checkups can alert your dentist to the possibility of underlying medical conditions that you may not be aware of; and just in case you still need to be convinced, here are some surprising facts about oral health problems commonly experienced by seniors:

• Among those over 75 years of age, about 50% of have cavities on the roots of their teeth (root caries) and may not be aware of it. Untreated decay can progress into the pulp of the tooth causing pain and serious blood infections, such as septicemia.
• About 25% of seniors ages 65 to 74 have severe periodontal disease. Research has linked this condition with other serious health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, respiratory illness and pneumonia in institutionalized patients.
• Oral cancer is diagnosed most frequently in people over age 65. Each year 30,000 new cases of oral and throat cancers are diagnosed and about 8,000 individuals die from these diseases. Early cancers are treatable, but since they are usually painless they often remain undetected until they have reached the later stages. Do you know about your risk factors for oral cancer? There are many… including tobacco and alcohol use, but some oral cancers develop in people with no known risk factors at all. When was the last time you were examined by a dental professional?
• Dry mouth is a major side effect of over 400 medications, many of which are taken by older adults. Blood pressure medications, cholesterol-lowering drugs, medicines for Alzheimer’s disease and antidepressants are just a few examples. Don’t underestimate the importance of this treatable condition… it contributes to tooth decay, gum disease, denture discomfort and it makes eating and speaking difficult or painful.

No matter what your age, a healthy mouth is important for general health and quality of life… and many older adults are choosing to cosmetically enhance their teeth for a real self esteem boost! Your personal oral health needs might include preventive checkups, fixing or replacing teeth or a brighter and younger looking smile. Whatever the case may be, your dental team has the expertise and the products that will allow you to look your best and love your smile for a lifetime! What types of services would you be most interested in learning more about?