Dental Health Can Keep Heart Disease Away

Good oral hygiene is important for good general health. Poor oral hygiene can lead to various dental, as well as, medical problems such as gum disease (periodontitis), infection, bone loss, heart disease, strokes, oral cancer and more. Regular tooth cleaning and check-ups can help prevent some of these problems and provide you with good oral hygiene as well. Daily brushing and flossing and regular dental check-ups is the best way to prevent gum disease.

Recent studies have found a correlation between heart disease and strokes to gum disease. A professional dental cleaning twice a year will help keep your teeth and gums healthy and could lessen your risk for a heart attack or stroke.
Bacterial endocarditis is a common risk associated with gum disease. Bacterial endocarditis is an infection in the lining of the heart or heart valves. The bacteria from infected gums can migrate into the bloodstream and infect the heart.

There are two stages of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis refers to the early stage of gum disease which can be easily treated if diagnosed early. Gum disease at this stage is often undetected. Periodontitis refers to gum disease in its advance stage, which causes bone loss and is irreversible if left untreated. Studies have shown 80% of the population has some form of gum disease.

Some Symptoms of Gum Disease:

• Frequent bad breath
• Red and swollen gums that bleed easily
• Gums that separate from the teeth
• Loose teeth
• Tooth sensitivity
• Abscessed teeth
• Tooth loss

Source: Teeth Cleaning Helps Prevent Heart Disease

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Modern Technology Instant Orthodontics

In this age of fast food, drive-thru wedding chapels and microwave meals in 90 seconds, it’s no surprise that people want that speed in other areas of their lives. Why not in their orthodontia?

And, thanks to the progressive dental community, you can get a perfect, white smile now! It’s called Instant Orthodontics or a smile makeover and, compared to other treatments such as braces, it is fast.

With braces, you’d have to wait as long as two years while the metal wires on your teeth slowly correct a twisted tooth here, a small gap there. With instant orthodontics, you can have not only a set of straight teeth, but a beautiful white smile, in about two weeks.

It’s really simple, too. A wafer-thin shell known as a porcelain veneer is bonded, using dental adhesive, to the front of the each tooth. When finished, you have a smile that is full of straight, shiny white teeth.

Porcelain veneers can be used to cover up a lot that is wrong with your current smile, such as:

• Chipped or broken teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Stained or discolored teeth
• Fillings that are stained or washed out
• Uneven teeth
• Teeth that are inconsistent in size

Once your dentist determines that porcelain veneers are right for you, an impression of your bite will be taken so the veneers can be made in the correct size and shape for you. Temporary veneers are placed while the permanent set is created. Once they are ready, the dentist will use the dental bonding adhesive to permanently attach the veneers to your existing teeth.

The next step is the big reveal. You get to see yourself, and your beautiful smile, for the first time. There you have it – a perfect, white smile now!

You also get a renewed sense of self-confidence and will find yourself smiling more often. Not a bad side effect, right? See – you’re smiling!

Source: I Want a Perfect, White Smile and I Want it Now!

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Sugar Substitute Reduces Risk for Dental Cavities

Swedish researchers completed a study that found Xylitol, which is a sugar substitute has the ability to reduce bacteria that leads to dental cavities. In order to prevent cavities between teeth a relatively high intake would need to be available in order to reduce the acid production between the teeth. Pernilla Lif Holgerson will present her study at the at Umeå University in Sweden on February 23rd.

Xylitol in previous studies have shown reduction in cavities. You can purchase special chewing gum and candy with Xylitol as an ingredient. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol made sugar xylose also refered to as wood sugar. Xylitol is found naturally in fruits and berries such as pears and strawberries.

A series of studies of children and adolescents measured saliva samples for plaque. The studies found that 3.4 grams of xylitol consistently changed the bacteria levels. I did not however, reduce the amount of lactic acid in plaque. Another study found that a single higher dose of xylitol was able to reduce the acidity in the plaque in between the teeth.

In one study they gave 128 children ranging in age from 7 – 12 chewing gum with xylitol. They were instructed to chew a new stick of this xylitol chewing gum three times a day for a total daily dosage of 6.0 grams in one day. Initially, the amount of plaque and the production of lactic acid was reduced dramatically during the trial period. Over a four week time period, the cavity causing bacteria went down by around one-third. Six months later the values returned to the original levels. There were no side-effects reported from the xylitol.

The study concludes that xylitol can be beneficial and recommends the following:

If a person is at high risk for tooth decay they should supplement with a daily intake of xylitol.

Choose xylitol products that stimulate saliva secretion. They recommend xylitol chewing gum as the best method to introduce xyitol into the mouth.

You would need 6 grams of xylitol per day to cancel the production of acid which in turn will reduce the risk of cavities.

For optimal results, deliver the xylitol three times a day, instead of at one sitting.

The chewing gum or xylitol product should contain as much xylitol as possible and not be mixed with other sugars.

Xylitol is available as a sugar substitute sweetener at health and nutrition stores, as well as online. Xylitol chewing gum is available mostly online at this time. In the future, you might see it at health and nutrition stores.

Source: Xylitol Sugar Substitute Reduces Risk for Dental Cavities in Children

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Advanced Tooth Decay Detection Technology

We would all like to stop tooth decay before it affects the whiteness of our smile, and especially before it leads to painful cavities that may have to be drilled out. The problem is that dentists are only human and can only see with human eyes. Their eyes are trained, but by the time a dentist can see caries (tooth decay), so can anyone else, and by the time they can see the caries, the damage has already been done. Even worse, as surface dental health has improved through the fluoridation of water, caries has begun to appear below the surface where no one can see it until it is too late.

Until now, the only tool available to dentists to detect sub-surface caries was exploratory drilling. And who wants more drilling, especially in teeth that might be healthy?

But now a new solution is available. DIAGNOdent laser caries detection aid that can “see” safely through the enamel to detect caries that are too small or too deep for dentists using more traditional methods.

DAIAGNOdent is more effective than traditional detection methods

We have all suffered under the dentist’s pick. The grating metal against our enamel, the scraping, the (sometimes painful) probing. No one likes it, but we suffer through it because we assume that it allows the dentist to find all those caries that need to be treated to keep our teeth healthy, bright, and functional. What if you were told that a study showed dentists using the pick were only able to find caries 58% of the time? That means that if it were a test, dentists would get, at best, a D- in finding cavities.

What about x-rays? You remember biting down on that obnoxious plastic film while the dentist puts a led apron on you and then hides in the other room. With all that discomfort and radiation exposure, it must do a better job of finding caries. Yes, but not much. The same study showed that the x-ray bitewing only detected 67% of the caries: a C-.

But don’t you deserve A-level caries detection? Of course. And only one method allows that level of detection: DIAGNOdent. DIAGNOdent has proven 90% effective in finding dental fissures.

DIAGNOdent has none of the drawbacks of traditional methods

Not only is DIAGNOdent more effective than traditional detection methods, but think of all the unpleasantness associated with the dentist that you can do without:
NO scratching or probing with the pick
NO x-ray exposure or uncomfortable bitewing

And most of all:
NO exploratory drilling.

And even without all these painful nuisances, you’ll be getting unprecedented accuracy in the diagnosis of present and possible future caries.

Additional Benefits of DIAGNOdent

In addition to these appreciable benefits over traditional detection methods, DIAGNOdent allows numerous other, previously unanticipated benefits:

• Allows the use of minimally invasive treatments without unnecessary procedures by ensuring an accurate diagnosis of even hidden caries. Ideal for use with air abrasion and micro-rotary treatments.
• Allows dentists to track the development of caries over time to immediately identify problems to possibly isolate and remedy causes.
• Results are completely reproducible and documentable.
• Increased confidence and comfort mean you won’t dread returning to the dentist and can stop any problems before they get out of hand.

Source: Now Lasers Can Detect Invisible Tooth Decay

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About Different Types of Teeth Fillings

About Different Types of Teeth Fillings

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Main differences between metal, composite and porcelain fillings.

Fillings are materials placed in tooth cavities to stop additional damage and avoid having the tooth extracted. The decayed tissue is removed, along with bacteria and their toxic debris, and the filling material replaces it.

Metal Fillings:
Metal fillings are traditional and are made from a mix of about 50% mercury, with smaller proportions of silver, copper, tin and zinc. This mix of metals is packed tightly into the cavity and can last for a long time. Durability and strength are the main advantages.

One disadvantage is that they are highly visible, being dark gray and totally unlike tooth enamel. Many people consider them unsightly. Another disadvantage is that they weaken teeth in several ways:

• By exerting outward pressure on the tooth’s periphery, eventually causing fractures
• By expanding and contracting in response to hot and cold substances put into the mouth, and thus stressing the tooth tissue around them. This also contributes to eventual fractures

Composite Fillings:
Composite fillings are one of the offerings of modern cosmetic dentists. They are done with dental composite, also called dental bonding, white composite, and dental resin. This is a soft, pliable material that comes in a range of white shades. Your cosmetic dentist will choose a shade to match your natural teeth. It is placed directly into the cleaned-out cavity and then hardened with a curing light. This bonds it to the surrounding tooth structure, and makes it a part of the tooth.

Advantages of composite fillings:

• Aesthetically pleasing tooth-coloured appearance
• Done in one visit
• No sensitivity to hot and cold substances
• Strengthen the tooth by holding it together

Disadvantages of composite fillings:

• May not last as long as metal or porcelain fillings
• Susceptible to discolouration over time
• The tooth needs to be isolated from saliva when the bonding material is placed, but usually this is managed easily with wads of cotton or a rubber covering

Porcelain Fillings:
Porcelain fillings are another offering of cosmetic dentistry, and a very popular one. They are called indirect restorations because they are custom-made in a dental lab and then cemented to the tooth, rather than being applied directly to the tooth. They are called porcelain inlays and onlays. Porcelain inlays are smaller and sit within the cusps. Onlays extend over one or more cusps. Because they are made in a lab from impressions of your teeth, they fit precisely into the cavity.

Advantages of porcelain fillings are:

• Tooth-coloured ceramic material with a glossy surface like enamel
• Invisible as fillings, unlike metal fillings
• The strengthen the tooth, as they’re bonded to it, unlike metal fillings
• Stain resistant compared to composite fillings
• More durable and strong than composite fillings

There are no disadvantages of porcelain inlays and onlays except that they require two visits. They give you a strong tooth surface, they last as long as metal fillings and they look far nicer.

Source: What’s the Difference between Metal, Composite, and Porcelain Fillings?

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Get Perfect Smile For Adult Orthodontics

Orthodontics was once reserved for teens and preteens, but today over one third of orthodontic patients are adults. Today there are many options available to adults if they want to improve their smile, and the appearance of their teeth. The options available for adults include: invisible braces, porcelain veneers, and crowns. These options address specific issues, but all have adult lifestyle and needs in mind.

When the straightening of the teeth is the main concern then braces, invisible braces, or porcelain veneers may be suitable for adults. Making a determination on which of these approaches will be the best choice depends on the severity of the problem. For slight misalignment invisible braces or porcelain veneers may be the best choice.

If the misalignment of teeth is severe, then fixed braces, including invisible or porcelain types, may be more effective to address the correction of misaligned teeth. If fixed braces are needed they will have to be worn anywhere from one to three years to straighten teeth properly. These braces will need to be in place every day for the first year, and then a retainer can be used at night for the remaining amount of time.

Teeth that are only slightly misaligned can be corrected using invisible braces that are either tooth colored, or clear and removable. This helps to avoid situations where adults may be embarrassed by a mouth full of braces, and somewhat hides the fixtures. The degree of misalignment for teeth that can be effective treated with these braces is slight to moderate.

Adults that did not have an opportunity to straighten their teeth when they were young now have the opportunity as an adult. There are many options for the adult wishing to straighten out their teeth, and improve their smile. Their choice of treatment will depend on their personal needs, and the severity of the misalignment. A good first step is to schedule a visit with an orthodontist for an examination and recommendation of treatment.

Source: Adult Orthodontics: It Is Never Too Late To Achieve A Straight Smile

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Reality & Facts About Teeth Whitening Products

Latest Dental News: Why is it safer and important to have your teeth whitened by a dentist instead of hairdresser?

You’ve seen the ads on TV and the internet for tooth-whitening products that promise a brighter, more beautiful smile. But just how effective are tooth whitening products?

How tooth whitening products work:

Tooth whiteners are products that make teeth appear whiter. There are two general classes of tooth whitening products:

• Bleaching products containing chemicals like peroxides that can remove both surface and deep stains and can change a tooth’s natural color.
• Non-bleaching products don’t contain bleach but do contain ingredients that act physically or chemically to remove stains on the surface of teeth.

Carbamide peroxide-containing whiteners:
Tooth-whitening products approved by the American Dental Association (ADA) include those with 10 percent carbamide peroxide. In water, this chemical breaks down to product hydrogen peroxide and urea. It’s the hydrogen peroxide that will bleach your teeth. Products with 10 percent carbamide peroxide may also include other ingredients like glycerin and flavoring agents. Clinical studies indicate that at a neutral pH, products containing 10 percent carbamide peroxide are safe and effective. Some side effects of these products include:

• Tooth sensitivity
• Occasional irritation of the inside cheeks and gums

Hydrogen peroxide-containing whiteners:
Some tooth whitening products are gels containing 15-35 percent hydrogen peroxide. The tooth whitening effects of these products can be enhanced using a light or laser system to obtain more immediate results. The gum tissues should be protected with a neutral gel or shield prior to using these products.

Side effects can include:

• Tooth sensitivity
• Occasional irritation of the inside of the mouth and gums
• Tooth damage (rarely)

Tray-based bleaching systems versus gels:
Peroxide-containing products are available as tray-based systems or as gels that can be applied using a brush or painted on. In tray-based systems, the tooth whitening gel is placed in a tray that fits over your teeth. While you wear the tray (for example, overnight), your teeth are bleached. Over-the-counter products provide one-sized-fits all trays that can cause non-uniform bleaching and possible irritation. A dentist can provide you with a custom-fitted tray for better results.

Over-the-counter paints and gels also can be applied non-uniformly (particularly when brushed or painted on). There may be more potential for irritation of the gums and inside of the mouth with these products, since over-the-counter tooth whitening products don’t tend to come with shields to protect these sensitive areas.

Whitening strips:
Whitening strips typically contain a thin coating of a peroxide gel. Whitening strips are usually applied for 30 minutes twice a day for about two weeks. Although they can produce visible whitening in a few days, strips whiten the surface of teeth and not the enamel between teeth, which can result in uneven whitening.

Whitening toothpastes:
Whitening toothpastes are not bleaching products. Those that bear the ADA Seal of Acceptance remove surface stains by polishing or by using chemicals to bind to the chemicals that cause staining. Whitening toothpastes don’t tend to be as effective as peroxide-containing products, but can be used as maintenance products after a bleaching procedure.

In-office treatment versus over-the-counter tooth whitening
Tooth whitening can be performed in-office by a cosmetic dentist or can be performed at home with an over-the-counter tooth whitening product.

There are advantages to professional treatment, including:

• More immediate results: A cosmetic dentist has access and the skill to use more concentrated bleaching products.
• Greater safety: A cosmetic dentist will be aware of your dental history and will take steps to protect your gums during the tooth whitening process.
• More uniform results: A cosmetic dentist will have the experience to apply a tooth whitening product uniformly for the best results.

Even if you choose an over-the-counter product, a cosmetic dentist will be able to tell you which product is right for you and advise you as to the safest procedures. If you are using a tray-based whitening system, a cosmetic dentist can provide you with a customized bleaching tray so that you can obtain more uniform whitening results.

Source: How Effective Are Tooth Whitening Products?

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No Dental Fear For Anxious Patients & Nervous Patients: Sedation Dentistry

Latest Dental News: Cleveland doctor practices sedation dentistry

Are you afraid of going to the dentist? If so, you are not alone. An estimated one-third of Americans do not go to the dentist because they are afraid of the potential pain and discomfort. This can lead to many problems because cavities, gum disease, and more go undetected and untreated. This can lead to root canals and tooth loss down the road once the pain becomes more than they can bear.

While many dentists claim to “cater to cowards,” even the nicest of dentists can still leave their patients nervous wrecks. Sedation dentistry is a completely different approach to treating patients and their teeth.

Sedation dentistry is used to provide a relaxing and calming experience for the patient. This is achieved by using varying levels of treatment depending on the patient and the procedure. The most common form is nitrous oxide which is administered throughout the procedure through a nasal mask or hood. The patient still knows what is going on around him, but is much calmer and more relaxed. It also serves to numb the gums, which can make injections easier.

Another option is IV sedation, which delivers the medication intravenously for an immediate result. Unlike nitrous oxide, it induces more of a sleep-like consciousness. It is best used when patients are extremely anxious or scared.

For those who do not like needles, a third option is oral conscious sedation. One benefit of this treatment is that patients do not remember the experience, although they are able to move and respond to the dentist throughout.

Because of the serious nature of the medication, people who use any of these treatments during their dental procedure will need to be driven home. The medication does not wear off quickly enough for the patient to have recovered sufficiently to drive.

If you are afraid of the dentist, that is not reason to put off the treatment that you desperately need for proper dental health. Talk to your dentist about whether he or she performs sedation dentistry. If not, you should look into finding someone else in your area that does.

Source: Sedation Dentistry: Solving Dental Care Concerns For Anxious Patients

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Dental Crowns & Materials Used For Crowns

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Has extensive wear and tear damaged your tooth to the point that its functionality is compromised? Than you need to consider a dental crown. A dental crown is essentially a cap placed over your tooth to:

• Prevent further damage
• Serve as a shell for a cracked tooth
• Replace a crown
• Allow a damaged tooth to regain functionality

Do I Need A Dental Crown?
While options such as porcelain veneers are another route you can take to prevent further tooth decay or repair a damaged tooth, if excessive damage has compromised your oral health, dental crowns are your only course of action. This is because unlike other smile restoration procedures, dental crowns provide a more fortified foundation for your teeth. Instances when this is required are:

• You’re the victim of periodontal disease, which would automatically disqualify you for porcelain veneers
• Grinding or clenching your teeth
• Major decay has eroded the foundation of your teeth
• Significant shape change is required to meet your goals

What’s The Procedure Like?
If you experience dental anxiety, many dental offices now practice sedation dentistry to alleviate any stress you may experience. However, compared to other smile restoration options, the dental crown procedure is rather simple and non-invasive:

• First, Dr. Jamie Sands and Dr. Jason Sands will prepare the tooth for receiving the crown. During this visit, an impression is made of your teeth and sent to the laboratory
• While the crown is being created, we will provide you with a temporary crown to protect your tooth
• Once the crown is finished, you return to the dental office to have the cap bonded to your damaged tooth

What Are My Options For A Crown?
There are three kinds of commonly used dental crowns:

• Porcelain
• Porcelain-fused-to-metal
• Gold

Depending on your cosmetic goals, financial restrictions, and oral health needs, you can discuss with your dentist the most appropriate route for you.

Porcelain
Porcelain dental crowns (also known as all-ceramic) are the most aesthetically pleasing and natural looking dental crown, as it is completely metal-free. However, there are drawbacks, such as it is not as strong or durable as its counterparts and thus should not be used in heavily used areas of the mouth.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are the most commonly used dental crowns today. They are more durable than pure porcelain and remain a very natural looking option. However, as time peels back your gum line, more of the metal collar will show.

Gold
While not as popular as porcelain dental crowns, gold crowns are still used today under specific circumstances. For instance, if a patient grinds or clenches their teeth, gold crowns are the best route as they are more durable than porcelain options. Additionally, they provide more longevity than their porcelain counterparts.

Source: Dental Crowns: All You Need To Know

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Stress, Jaw Problems & Headache Due to TMJ Disorder

Latest Dental News: Jaw Problems & Headaches

“All this stress – it’s giving me a headache!” How many times have you heard someone say something similar, or even said such a thing yourself? It’s a common sentiment, and it’s based in reality. Stress can manifest itself in all sorts of physical symptoms.

Work, money, relationships, and just life in general can all cause stress. And stress can cause headaches, joint pain, eyestrain and other problems. But experts suggest that, often times, headaches are not caused by stress. Rather, the headaches are caused by a condition known as Temporomandibular Joint Disorder. It’s this condition – referred to as TMJ – which is actually causing the headaches, joint pain and other supposed stress-related conditions. It’s a vicious circle – the TMJ creates the headaches, persistent headaches lead to stress, and the stress then further intensifies the headaches.

“TMJ can cause an unending cycle of pain and stress for the sufferer,” says Dr. Dennis Ikuta, a Reedley, California neuromuscular dentist. “By going to a neuromuscular dentist to treat the symptoms of your TMJ, you can alleviate the pain and stress it may be causing.”

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder: What is it?
Some estimates place TMJ as the third most common health problem in the United States today, yet not many people have actually heard about it. The problem with TMJ is that it is hard to diagnose, and has a myriad of symptoms. Some of the most common ones include headaches, toothaches, blurred vision, tingling in the arms, neck pain, and a clicking sound in the jaw.

So what is TMJ? TMJ is a disorder that arises when the jaw is improperly aligned, and it can cause many different painful symptoms. It can be a genetic condition, or the result of an accident. Regardless, when your jawbones and muscles are “out of whack,” problems can occur throughout your body.

So why, if TMJ is so common, is it so commonly misdiagnosed? The answer is surprising. The experts in TMJ aren’t typically doctors. Rather, the experts are neuromuscular dentists.

Neuromuscular Dentists Know TMJ
Neuromuscular dentists have additional, post-dental-school training at neuromuscular dentistry schools. Aside from learning about veneers, bleaching, and other traditional dental procedures, neuromuscular dentists also learn how to prevent these procedures from affecting the temporomandibular joint, as well as diagnose and treat TMJ and other structural disorders of the neck and jaw.

Diagnosing TMJ requires both expertise and special equipment. A computer model is made of your jaw and bite pattern, which allows your dentist to see exactly what’s wrong. Treatment for TMJ depends on the severity and extent of the individual’s condition. It could involve something as extensive as surgery, or something as simple as custom-made mouth apparatus. Typically, most cases are treated – at least partially – by the TENS system, which uses electrical pulses to eliminate the TMJ pain.

Say Goodbye to Stress
If you suffer from persistent headaches, you owe it to yourself to visit with a neuromuscular dentist. You might be suffering from TMJ. If so, you deserve treatment – treatment for TMJ will relieve the symptoms, and the subsequent stress that is often associated with chronic pain.

Diagnosing and treating TMJ is usually simple – if you know where to look! Often, that means scheduling an appointment with a neuromuscular dentist. They’re the TMJ experts! So if you suffer from unexplained headaches, jaw pain and the like, just remember: it might not be stress, it might be TMJ.

Source: Stress; the cause of TMJ?

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Jaw Pain, Headache & Temporomandibular Joint Disorder Treatments

http://www.feel-younger.co.uk/

Latest Dental News: New York clinic develops new technique to treat bruxing

Millions of Americans suffer from headaches, shoulder and neck pain, and ringing in the ears without even knowing they may be suffering from a disorder of the jaw. These people often live with the pain and discomfort thinking that stress is the cause, relief is often sought through painkillers and heating pads. However, these symptoms may be the result of a medical condition called Temporomandibular Joint Disorder or TMD.

While over the counter medication can temporarily alleviate some of the pain associated with TMD, the symptoms usually recur and can progress to debilitating proportions that alter quality of life. Blurred vision, back pain, anxiety, and insomnia can negatively affect the life of someone suffering from TMD. However, there is sound treatment available that not only alleviates the symptoms but corrects the root cause.

Often, when people seek help from their primary care doctor for these symptoms and a host of others associated with TMD, their primary care physician is unable to determine the problem. That’s because only a trained neuromuscular dentist can accurately diagnosis and treat TMD. As a result, patients often hear from their PCP that the problem is stress related.

Now is the time to seek appropriate help for TMD. No one has to continually suffer the painful symptoms of this chronic, degenerative disease when advanced treatment is available. The first step is a thorough examination to properly determine if you have TMD.

State-of-the-Art Treatment Options

Your dentist may need to take X-rays to determine your jaw’s alignment. A sonogram may also be required to determine other malfunctions such as popping and clicking sounds. State-of-the-art computer technology is used to determine how your jaw functions in various positions. These include resting, opening and closing, and a variety of other movements the jaw undergoes such as talking or yawning. Once jaw tracking is complete, your dentist then determines the optimal position for your jaw, and works with you on developing the best options for treatment.

Depending on the severity of your condition, your dentist will prescribe a plan of action that works best for you. There are many options available to correct TMD once it’s been properly diagnosed. Orthodontics specializes in the treatment of misaligned bites. Invisalign is a new treatment that straightens teeth by using clear plastic molds. This invisible option eliminates the need for unattractive metallic braces. Oral surgery may also be necessary.

Source: Headaches and jaw pain? You may have TMD

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Facts & Difference Between Colored Dental Fillings & Silver Fillings

Latest Dental News: Dental amalgam is safe, but needs warning on product label

A silver glint in your smile reveals a great deal about your dental history. When you have a cavity, cosmetic dentists use fillings to support and protect the tooth from further decay. For many years, silver amalgam fillings have been the filling of choice. Recently, however, more and more patients have been choosing composite resin or tooth-colored fillings because of their attractiveness and durability.

Silver vs. Tooth-Colored

Silver amalgam contains approximately 35% silver, traces of tin and zinc, and approximately 50% mercury. Mercury is thought to be toxic to humans, and, in the past, has caused some concern in the dental field. This concern has sparked a controversy over the safety of the metal fillings used in the last two decades.

The American Dental Association (ADA) has deemed the much-relied-upon alloy as harmless; however, the ADA warns that those with allergies or a weakened immune system should avoid it.

However, many dentists remain unconvinced of mercury’s safety, arguing that mercury vapor gradually escapes from the filling endangering the patient.

According to dentists, mercury poisoning has been linked to a number of other health problems, including:

· Reduced excretion of porphyrins, which promote oxygen transport in the blood
· A buildup of mercury in various glands in the body
· Sleep disturbances
· Gastrointestinal problems
· Memory problems
· A possible contributory factor to Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease, and Alzheimer's Disease

Silver amalgam fillings have also been known to expand over time, which can sometimes cause teeth to crack causing discomfort and a need for further dental work.

Resin (tooth-colored) fillings involve none of these health risks. They do not expand or damage the tooth. Instead, they are bonded to the tooth, providing strength and support. The resin is composed of a material similar to that used in dental bonding, another procedure that supports tooth structure.

Resin fillings also require less removal of the original tooth to make room for the filling and are considered a less radical alteration to the natural tooth.

Aesthetically Pleasing

Rather than making teeth look healthy and pristine, silver fillings can checker them with a patchwork of repairs. Often, a grayish color can leak from the filling to the surrounding tooth, worsening the appearance. This is especially noticeable if the cavity affects one of the front teeth. “Resin fillings are becoming the norm,” says Dr. Kevin B. Sands, a Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist, “They are better for you and much better-looking.”

With composite resin fillings, people will not even know that you have fillings. The resin mimics the color and translucency of your teeth. The resulting smile is as white and brilliant as it is strong.

Resin fillings cost a bit more, about $150 to $200 per filling, but often the extra expense is covered by insurance. When it comes to dental health, the least expensive option can become more expensive in the long run. Resin fillings last up to ten years before needing replacement.

If you currently have silver amalgam fillings, replacing them with resin composite fillings is a relatively simple procedure.

Source: Tooth-Colored Fillings

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Get Rid of Jaw Problems & Headaches Through Latest & Advanced Dental Treatments

Latest Dental News: Jaw Problems & Headaches

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is a condition in which your bite becomes misaligned causing serious and often very painful problems of the head and face area. Many times you will see the acronyms TMJ and TMD used interchangeably, but you should note that TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint itself, while TMD stands for the painful disorder that results from a problem with the TMJ.

There are many symptoms associated with this very common and painful disorder:

• Limited jaw movement
• Clicking and popping noises of the jaw
• Locking of the jaw
• Stiff or tight jaw muscles
• Facial pain
• Ringing in the ears
• Pressure in the ears
• Neck, shoulder and back pain
• Numbness and tingling in the fingers
• Difficulty swallowing
• Insomnia

People who suffer with TMD often present this set of symptoms to their general doctor, however and accurate diagnosis of TMD is often missed because physicians often do not have the specialized training this difficult diagnosis requires. A neuromuscular dentist, on the other hand, does have the specialized training to not only diagnose this difficult disorder, but also to treat it. Neuromuscular dentistry is the dental specialty that treats the cause of the painful headaches that accompany a misaligned jaw. A good neuromuscular dentist will work to place your jaw in its optimal position, thereby virtually eliminating all of your symptoms.

Migraine Like Headaches

One of the most painful symptoms of TMD is a headache that sufferers compare to a migraine. TMD causes these powerful headaches because the trigeminal nerve is one of the most complex nerve systems in the body. This nerve is responsible for the function of the TMJ and accounts for approximately forty percent of the brain’s processing. The trigeminal nerve got its name because it has three branches, all affecting various parts of the face, head, arms and shoulders. Because of the vastness of this nerve’s processing, TMD sufferers may also have numbness and tingling in the hands and fingers.

The headaches associated with TMD may be dull and constant or sharp and searing. If you have suffered with headaches for years, even decades, your solution may be found at your neuromuscular dentist’s office.

TMD Treatments

Fortunately for TMD sufferers, there are many treatment options available. Your dentist, after a thorough evaluation, will decide on a treatment plan based on your unique symptoms. Treatment options may include any of the following:

• Occlusal splints (also known as mouth guards or mouth pieces). These are typically worn at night, but in more severe cases daytime wear may also be necessary.
• Pain medication and/or anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed
• Moist heat will help to relax your jaws sore muscles by promoting blood flow to the area
• Jaw exercises and/or physical therapy will relax your muscles and increase joint flexibility
• Behavioral changes such as not chewing gum, not biting your nails and avoiding crunchy foods will almost always be recommended.
• In the most extreme cases, surgery may be necessary.

If you live in the Braintree, Massachusetts area and would like to learn more about TMD related headaches, please visit the Aesthetic Dentist.

Source: Jaw Disorder Results in Painful Headaches

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Dentists have been traditionally feared by many because of their nasty reputation. Reputation rather than anything else is actually responsible why many people fear a trip to the dentist. If you get seriously tensed up at just the thought of visiting a dentist, you are most likely to be suffering from Dental Anxiety or Dentophobia which is the fear of receiving dental care or the dentist himself. People affected with dental anxiety might get filled with a deep sense of insecurity and fear when they visit a dentist.

Quite a majority of the people, around 75% suffer from varying degrees of dental anxiety. Around 20% of these will only visit a dentist if they just have to as in case of extreme pain or emergencies. It is however natural to feel a little anxious before a dentist appointment.

This article discusses the causes of dental anxiety.

1. Embarrassment: Many people are embarrassed at the condition of their mouth and are worried about how the dentist will react after seeing their teeth. They think they have the worst set of teeth in the world. Be assured that dentists see such cases on a daily basis. It’s their job to help you overcome such conditions.

2. Prior Experiences: These can be the most powerful reason for the fear of dentists. A person with a bad past experience might strongly oppose the idea of ever visiting a dentist again. Although bad experience is a valid reason for fearing something, it might be worthwhile to have a check on why you had a bad experience. If your visit has been quite a few years back, be informed that dentistry is a constantly developing field and old methods have been replaced by painless advanced methods.

You might have had a really bad experience while undergoing a procedure and you hate your dentist after that. What you don’t realize that there were 10 other people the same day that got treated by the same dentist with out any problem. You just happened to have a bad day. Just as if you were driving and had a crash, you wouldn't quit driving because you know you just had a bad day and it doesn't happen all the time.

3. Immediate surroundings: If you fear the dentist, it is very likely that you passed this on to your children as well. This is because children learn by what they see. If they see you fearing the dentist, obviously they would too. Not just parents, children can imbibe such a fear from any one close to them such as relatives, friends.

4. Others experience: We often tend to relate to emotions of others. If your best friend had a terrible encounter with a particular dentist and cried in front of you for the same, you will be definitely affected by such an incident. Or simply if someone close to had a painful ordeal while undergoing a RCT and told you and your dentist informed you in your next appointment that you should get an RCT done, its highly likely you would want to run away from your dentist.

5. Dentist’s fault: Some dentists remain insensitive towards the patients and this can immensely affect a patients opinion especially kids. Dentists ought to know that not the treatment itself is part of their profession but also caring and making the patient comfortable. Mocking at the patient or making insensitive comments directed at the patients is also responsible for people developing hate for the dentist.

6. The Instruments: Some people are driven nuts just at the site of "The drill". Although, it does appear intimidating the drill is not actually painful. In many cases, you are given an anesthetic which makes you insensitive to any possible pain. Besides this, there is an advanced alternative to the drill which is known as laser dentistry. A few dentists trained in laser dentistry offer this.

The best advice to people suffering from dental anxiety is to visit a dentist who expertises in treating such patients.

Dentistry is not about giving pain to you but preventing any pain to you.

Source: The 6 Main Causes of Dental Anxiety (Dentophobia)

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For over 150 years, metal fillings have been the status quo to repair teeth. The metal in these fillings is mercury, or an amalgam of mercury, copper, and silver. What now seems like common sense – mercury is not something you want to carry around in your mouth – is still a relatively new concept. In something known as the “mercury controversy,” a debate is raging about exactly how bad mercury is for you. The Food and Drug Administration has linked mercury to harming pregnant women, children, and fetuses. On a related note, people are concerned about mercury in the fish they eat, so it makes sense they’d feel concern about the metal fillings or restorations in their mouth. Several countries, including Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Sweden, have banned or advised against the use of metal fillings.

Health Complaints

Health problems associated with metal fillings are reported every year. The problems these people associate with the mercury in their fillings include:

• Autoimmune disorders
• Birth defects
• Chronic illnesses
• Degenerative brain and nervous system problems
• Mental disorders
• Lesions in the mouth

Replacing Metal Fillings

Due to the advent of porcelain and composite fillings, replacing metal-based fillings leaves you with options. Even if you are not feeling ill, if you want to replace your fillings with metal-free fillings, you can do so with a dentist who has a metal-free practice, like Oklahoma City, Oklahoma area dentist Dr. Terry Bass. Replacing your mercury fillings may be done for several reasons, such as:

• Metal fillings obviously do not look like your other teeth, which makes them standout negatively when you smile
• Metal expands and contracts with temperature changes, which cracks and damages the enamel on your teeth
• Any illness you have or feel you have may be because of the presence of mercury in your mouth

Metal restorations are inferior for these reasons. There is no substitute for your natural teeth, but when you need fillings, dental crowns, or veneers, you shouldn’t have to worry about your overall general health, too. By giving dental patients the option for metal-free restorations, dentists in metal and mercury free practices are not only creating better smiles. They are creating healthier smiles.

If you want to improve the aesthetic appearance of your smile, consider having your metal-based fillings replaced with metal-free porcelain. If you are in the Oklahoma City, Oklahoma area, please contact Terry Bass, DDS to set up an initial consultation.

Source: Go Metal Free for a Healthier Smile

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Green New Deal for the NHS: Pay for Itself in the Medium Term

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Today, the Green Party will launch a powerful bid to influence the health agenda towards the next general election.

The Green New Deal for the NHS proposes an extra £500m a year for maternity services, plus £1.8bn a year for dental care. Most of this would be paid for by savings of £1bn on getting rid of Independent Sector Treatment Centres, and a further £1bn or more saved by scrapping the health care market.

There would be one-off costs of £1bn for reorganisation and at least £12bn to buy back the private finance initiatives, but liberating the NHS from PFI payments would save £1bn a year. So the Green New Deal for the NHS would pay for itself in the medium term, say the Greens.

On maternity services, the Greens' £500m stimulus would create a single-tier approach for all mothers:

* A wider range of birth choices - including home birth for all women who want it.
* All women to be entitled to support from a single midwife throughout each pregnancy.
* A major recruitment drive for midwives.
* Medical interventions to be significantly reduced.
* Culture change throughout the NHS so that birth is treated as a normal event - not an illness - in which mothers are empowered and able to be in control.

The extra £1.8bn a year for dentistry would restore the principle of dental care free at the point of access, with an end to the severe difficulties many people are now facing in attempting to find an NHS dentist.

Dignity, compassion and accountability

But improving the health service isn't just about wise spending and better access to services, say the Greens. The Green New Deal for the NHS would also improve the accountability of those services, along these lines:

* The NHS to be accountable to local government and thus to local people.
* An end to the purchaser/provider split so that public health, service planners and providers of care are under local government.
* The NHS to have centrally-defined minimum standards and national agreement on which treatments are available.
* Local people and clinicians to have a real say in how and where these services are delivered.

Finally the Green New Deal for the NHS would restore and develop a culture of dignity and compassion in the UK's health service, the Greens say:

* Health services must meet the needs of patients, not the needs of the market and corporate shareholders.
* Maternity care must meet the needs of women and their babies.
* Patients suffering with poor mental health must get a real say in the way they are treated. They must be told their diagnosis and must be able to set advance directives that spell out what type of care they want when they are ill.
* There must be legislation to prevent discrimination against people with mental illness.

Caroline Lucas MEP, Green Party leader - who is widely tipped to become the first Green MP at Westminster in the next general election - said today: "We need to protect and improve the National Health Service, and we need to stop it being used as a vehicle for private profit. We believe the public wants this too. So we're throwing down the gauntlet to the other parties, to match the Green Party's commitment to the NHS."

Resource: Green New Deal for the NHS

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