Advance Family Dental

Fastbraces

2012-02-22T13:15:00.000-06:00

Traditional braces move the crown of the tooth in the first year, and the root of the tooth in the second year, thus requiring two years of treatment.
Fastbraces are specifically designed to move the crown and root of the tooth at the same time, from the beginning of the treatment, reduing time in half in most cases.

Still Using a Hard-Bristled Toothbrush??!

2012-02-17T08:33:00.000-06:00

One of the biggest things that goes into great oral hygiene is patient education. This week I’ve selected one of my preferred topics to share. This is one of my favorite concepts to discuss because it is so important to the home care routine and the information is still surprising people.
It is normal to assume when thinking toothbrush bristles that harder is better. Is it? No. Using a hard-bristled toothbrush is abrasive to the tooth and the gums. Let’s get on a smaller level. Harder bristles are stiffer. The stiffer the object in motion the more pressure going on the surface of the tooth and gums. This has shown to remove micro layers of the enamel and gum tissue. Much like a green scratchy pad would remove paint from a car. If you were to remove dirt or dust from your car after getting it wet, would you rather use a sheep skin washcloth or a Brillo pad?? The same goes for your teeth. When brushing twice a day every day, imagine the damage that can be done to your teeth on a microscopic level.

A soft-bristled tooth brush is designed to give your teeth a clean surface without being abrasive. The flexibility of the bristles allow the bristles to clean 2-3 millimeters underneath your gum tissue, rather than just rubbing the top surface , which is harsh for your gums. When using a soft-circular motion at a 45 degree angle, a soft-bristled brush can actually form suction to your gums and pull out plaque below the surface. A hard bristled brush is not flexible enough to do that so there would be a whole area that got missed brushing.

This final observation is my favorite. Everything that builds up on the surface of your teeth that can be removed by brushing is soft. Yes, soft. Meaning plaque and food could just as easily be removed by something as soft as a cotton ball. What is the point of scrubbing away with a hard brush? Tartar builds up or calcium deposits are meant for a professional to mechanically remove at hygiene appointments and are much too stubborn for any toothbrush to remove.

In conclusion, a toothbrush’s only job is to stimulate the gums and remove soft-deposits. Let your hygienist do the tough work. Your responsibility is the maintenance- The removal of the daily build up with a brush that will get your teeth cleaner, while being nicer.

Annie Lutterman, RDH

We are all excited about Fastbraces!

2012-02-08T08:30:00.000-06:00

I am so excited to announce that at Advance Family Dental we are going to be a part of Fastbraces. This is an exciting time for us here at AFD. Fastbraces is going to change how people look and talk about braces. Fastbraces is just what it says braces done fast. It can usually be done in half the time of traditional braces. This is achieved by the unique design of the brace. Traditionally braces have been a square design that limited the amount of moves the brace could achieve. But with the new triangle design, we are able to now move the teeth in 4 directions instead of 2. What this does for you, it makes braces now fast, safe and affordable. Please contact out office for a free orthodontic consultation with Dr. Zollinger and myself. We are looking forward to seeing you and sharing Fastbraces with you.

Michelle

ANNOUNCING FASTBRACES®!

2012-02-02T16:08:00.001-06:00

I am proud to announce my practice has joined the Fastbraces® network of worldwide dentists.

Science most often advances in small refinements of already known technologies. Every once in a while we blow by previously insurmountable barriers.

The Wright brothers did it with the airplane. Edison did it with the light bulb.

Fastbraces® is similar in that things we previously thought were impossible are now done every day; comfortably, safely and effectively.

In my 30 years in Dentistry, seldom have I discovered anything so transformative.

Fastbraces® can often straighten teeth in half the time of traditional braces. Because of the time savings, it can be less expensive than traditional braces.

It has been my goal to be among the first to adopt leading technologies to offer my patients. I am excited to join the Fastbraces® network of dentists that can ensure your smile for a lifetime.

Come see for yourself what FASTBRACES® can do for you. Call today for a free consultation.

What makes Fastbraces® different than traditional braces?

Fastbraces®: The patented triangular design of the braces used for Fastbraces® gently allows for movement of the crown and root of the tooth at the same time.

Traditional braces: The crown of the tooth is moved in the first year and the root of the tooth in the second year of treatment. With the Fastbraces® technology, both of these movements are done at the same time- cutting treatment time in half.

To see real results and consumer testimonials click on the following links:
http://www.fastbraces.com/stories/beforeafter/

http://vimeo.com/33245554

http://vimeo.com/34150288

http://vimeo.com/34150338

For more information, visit www.fastbraces.com

Dr. Z

Waxed, Ribbon, Rope or Tape??

2012-01-30T09:00:00.001-06:00

A Hygienist’s Guide to Choosing the Right Floss

By Annie Lutterman R.D.H.

Let’s admit it; when it comes to flossing, we have options. In fact, we have several choices that may cause one to become confused on the mosh pit of different floss varieties. For most, flossing is a chore all in itself. Wouldn’t you want to know you are using the kind that is most beneficial for your teeth? When you walk down the dental aisle at the store, you will see that is home to numerous products meant to make a mouth healthy. Where do you start? Which product is best for you? I’m choosing to write this article to help select the type of floss that meets your individual needs.

“I have really tight teeth!” Very commonly I notice that a patient’s main reason for not flossing is because their teeth are so tight that the floss shreds/breaks easily. In this case, I recommend dental floss that is moderately to heavily waxed. Wax allows the floss to glide though tight contacts easily while removing anything below the gum surface. When using waxed floss, it is important to remember to use a different segment of floss between each interproximal space. For example, if you aren’t rotating your segment of floss, it may slide though easily on one tooth and when you move it to the next tooth, it shreds- Most of the wax was used on that first contact, therefore when you used the same piece, it was basically wax-less. If your teeth are ‘snaggy’ and tight, waxless equals worthless. I like Oral- B Glide Pro Health floss.

“I always have to floss the same tooth 10 times just to get food out!” This is also a very familiar situation for a hygienist to encounter when discussing floss options. Typically, someone who complains of food-trapping areas cannot seem to keep certain spaces free of debris and should be using thicker floss. Generally, if you are trapping food than it is likely you have extra spacing between your teeth. When you floss a tooth that has more room between contacts, there is naturally more room for food to get stuck. Thicker floss is meant to grab more plaque/debris between the teeth because it covers more area while being in the interproximal space. When you cover more ground, the less you have to sweep through. I like Johnson & Johnson Reach Gum Care- Mint Woven floss.

“I have too many crowns and rough, catchy areas to get floss though!” It is true that someone with several restorations such as crowns, fillings, and bridges might have a tougher time flossing routine than others. Need not despair! Dental tape is here to the rescue! Dental tape is formulated to wince over rough edges and rough margins while still getting to the depth of the gums pocket to remove plaque/food left-overs. Its’ stretchy and textured band allows a seamless glide between tight teeth with crowns and other restorations. I like Johnson and Johnson Reach Total Care.

“I just don’t do floss at all.” This is a common comment I hear often in the hygiene profession. Sometimes no matter how hard you try, your fingers are just too big to get to the back of your mouth. Maybe you just can’t get the hang of wrapping the floss though your fingers without them turning purple! Sometimes the angulation of the floss to your teeth leaves you wrapped up like a spider web. In this situation, I suggest picking up a good pack of floss picks- There are several different types/brands to adapt to the shape of your mouth- Generally speaking, floss picks are the most convenient way to floss. This is also a great product to pick up if you need to floss on-the-go. Floss picks are shaped like a plastic toothpick that has a pre-threaded band on one end. This is meant to squeeze between all teeth- Whether they are in the far back or just a tighter spot. I like Plackers Twin- Line Flossers.

To sum it up, everyone is different. Different mouths call for different measures. I know that for most patients, dental care isn’t considered ‘fun’. (Even though I think it is.) Nonetheless, I’ve discovered there are several ways to make your job easier at home, and in turn, making my job easier when you come in for check-ups! Happy flossing!

Annie

Fast Braces information is coming soon.

2012-01-25T10:07:00.001-06:00

At AFD we are always trying to find more and better treatment options for our patients. This week, Dr. Zollinger, Trista and myself will be attending a hands-on seminar on Fast Braces. We are excited about offering another treatment option to our patients who are in need of Orthodontics. Check back in a couple of weeks, when we will fill you in on what we learned about Fast Braces.

Michelle

Want to avoid a Dental Emergency?

2012-01-24T09:26:00.000-06:00

The Two Most Common Reasons For Dental Emergencies

Nobody likes a dental emergency. They tend to happen at the most inopportune times. We have had patients that are heading out on vacation and end up rushing in to get emergency treatment. I suppose that is better than being on vacation and needing treatment. Yes, that has happened before too. The cost involved with a dental emergency can also be an unpleasant surprise for our patients. When a problem has gotten to the point of being an emergency, the needed treatment is generally more comprehensive and more expensive.

Our treatment coordinator, Kelly, has come up with the two easiest ways to avoid a dental emergency.

As a treatment coordinator and dental assistant I see people every day because of some kind of dental emergency and there are a few similarities in almost all cases.

1. Not coming in for a hygiene appointment every 6 months

This is significant because at your cleaning appointment a lot more happens then getting your teeth polished.

First of all your hygienist is trained in what teeth and gums are supposed to look like so they can tell if there are any problems now or any signs of problems that you may have in the future. So even if you are not scheduled for an exam with Dr. Zollinger, your hygienist can detect if there is an issue that they want the doctor to take a look at or that may need an x-ray. Your cleaning appointment is the most crucial point for us to detect any future dental issues and work with you to prevent them from turning into emergencies later.

Second, most people may not realize this but your cleanings by your hygienist are what keep your teeth in your mouth. You cannot do at home what your hygienist does even if you brush and floss 3 times a day. The hard calculus/tartar that builds up on your teeth above and below your gum line, are like slivers that eat away at your gum tissue and bone that holds your teeth in place. Brushing and flossing does not remove this calculus it removes the soft plaque. The calculus and tartar is far too hard to be removed at home. Did you know that in most places in our bodies the bone will regrow but not the bone that is lost due to gum disease? We can stop you from further bone loss, but your body will not replace what is already lost. So the best option is to not lose any in the first place. This process of losing bone around your teeth is called gum disease or periodontal disease. THIS DOES NOT HURT AT ALL. If you only see your dentist when you have pain, it is very likely that you could have bone loss around your teeth.

Coming to your regular cleaning appointments, is the least expensive way to keep your teeth healthy.

2) Letting small issues get big

Most dental issues start out small and will not heal by itself. Usually it starts as a small cavity that at our office can be fixed without anesthetic or even a drill. If not fixed the decay will continue to get deeper and larger until now you need a large filling with anesthetic drill and is more expensive. If this is still not fixed, you will eventually need a crown. Also, the danger is that the decay will reach the nerve and you will need root canal treatment and a crown. You could even lose the tooth.

We see patients all the time with large, old worn out fillings with decay underneath or large fracture lines. In these cases, we inform the patient that they need a crown on the tooth. Several months later, the patient comes in for emergency treatment because the tooth either broke or it hurts. For some crazy reason these things always seem to happen on the weekend or a holiday! We see teeth everyday so we see patterns and we can usually predict what will happen. We know that a tooth with a little decay that is not treated will eventually need a root canal. We also know that filling material is only meant for small areas. Large fillings will break and need crowns someday. The reason it’s important to get your tooth fixed before it breaks is because the more tooth structure we have to work with the longer the crown will last.

Dr. Zollinger’s recommendations are to give you the healthiest teeth with the least amount of problems in the future. As partners in your dental care, to avoid dental emergencies, we suggest that you see your dental hygienist every six months and take care of your dental issues before they become big problems.

Our goal at Advance Family Dental is for you to have the least amount of dentistry possible. We want you to have healthy teeth and gums and to avoid the inconvenient and more costly dental emergencies.

What is a Cerec Crown?

2012-01-16T12:15:00.000-06:00

CEREC is an acronym for Chair side Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. CEREC technology can provide you with any number of porcelain restorations in just minutes, rather than having to wait weeks and return to the dentist office multiple times.

At the moment, almost everyone has a filling that is made of metal or some other type of material that doesn't match the color of the rest of your teeth, and may need to be replaced. CEREC provides you with the option of having your next dental restoration permanently corrected in just one visit to the dentist office.

During a CEREC dental restoration, your teeth will be examined to determine what treatment will best provide you with the results you need. If a CEREC restoration is recommended, your tooth will be prepared for the restoration you are receiving and an optical impression of your tooth will be made. This high-resolution optical impression will be used to create a ceramic restoration that perfectly fits your tooth and matches the rest of your teeth.

In about 15 minutes, the CEREC milling machine will sculpt your ceramic restoration from a block of porcelain. Once the restoration has been tested for proper fit and so that it does not interfere with your bite, it is permanently bonded to your tooth. The end result is a ceramic restoration that looks and feels just like your natural teeth.
CEREC technology can be used to create:
· Inlays
· Onlays
· Posterior Crowns
· Anterior Crowns
· Partial Crowns
· Veneers

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tara_Pingle

Haiti Trip- Part 1

2012-01-05T09:11:00.002-06:00

(Dont miss the link at the bottom of page to see pictures from Haiti)
There are many places where one can go to help. Right here in the United States there are hungry and poor and depressed and hopeless. One might ask why Haiti.

A year ago, my daughter Karen, mother of three beautiful children and a wonderful husband living in Shoreview, came up to me bubbling about the best experience of her life. A mission trip to Haiti. She had visited orphans, helped bring water to those who had none in an amazingly hot climate, and held babies in Mother Theresa's home for sick and dying children.   She had done so much good in such a short time, and it was so fulfilling.

This is the same daughter that 15 years ago said, Dad, let's run a marathon together. Well, I'd never run more than 2 miles in my life before.   She is the one that when there is an accident and a crowd gathers around to watch, dives in to help.

She is a special gal and so when she invited me to go, I knew I was on my way...

Because of her, I've run a marathon and now am forever connected to the people of Haiti. The beauty of her people and the tragedy of their plight.   You come home with more questions than answers.

But what is clear is, the children of Haiti need our help with the basic needs of food, water, healthcare, education, safety and hope. Good people from around the world are trying to help on a massive scale. There is much more to do. Aid that is provided directly by us, gets to those who need it.   If we don't supervise the materials, they often don't make it to the right place.

Haiti, once called the Pearl of the Caribbean, more wealthy than the United States, is now the most desperate place on the planet.   Of eight million people, 80% are in poverty, 50% are in abject poverty. This was true before the recent earthquake and hurricanes.   While I seek for answers of why, I must continue to help where I can....

Haiti pictures

To be continued....

Dr Z.

New Years Resolution to Smile about!

2011-12-29T14:00:00.000-06:00

With the new year approaching, you may have already begun to think about your New Year’s resolutions. You may be considering resolving to save money, get a better job or lose weight. Many people set new goals about having a healthier lifestyle in the new year. Why not make one of your New Year’s resolutions improving your dental health?Healthy resolutions can keep your teeth healthy, and any of the following strategies will go a long way toward giving you a brighter, healthier smile in the coming year:

Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.

Eating well is important for your dental health. Poor nutrition can affect the entire immune system, increasing susceptibility to many common oral disorders, including gum (periodontal) disease. Antioxidants and other nutrients found in fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts improve your body’s ability to fight bacteria and inflammation, helping to protect your teeth and gums. In addition, crisp fruits and raw vegetables like apples, carrots and celery help clean plaque from teeth and freshen breath.

Quit smoking or using other tobacco products.

Using tobacco can harm your mouth in a number of ways, increasing your risk for tooth discoloration, cavities, gum recession, gum disease and throat, lung and oral cancer. Smokers are about twice as likely to lose their teeth as non-smokers. It’s not just smoking tobacco that has negative effects on your oral health: use of smokeless tobacco can be just as harmful to your oral health. The good news is that the risk of tooth loss decreases after you quit smoking or using smokeless tobacco.

Limit your alcohol intake.

You may already know that excessive alcohol intake can have an effect on your overall health, but did you know that it may also affect your oral health? According to the Academy of General Dentistry, those who smoke, eat poorly and consume excessive alcohol also have increased gum recession (periodontal pocketing). Their studies show that smokers who regularly consume alcohol are less likely to brush their teeth on a regular basis and are less concerned about their basic health than nonsmokers.

Brush at least twice a day and floss at least once a day.

Brushing and flossing protect your teeth from decay and gum disease, which is caused by your teeth’s most persistent enemy, plaque – a sticky, colorless, invisible film of harmful bacteria that builds up on your teeth every day. Both brushing and flossing are equally important for good oral health: according to the Academy of General Dentistry, only flossing can remove plaque from between teeth and below the gum line, where decay and gum disease often begins.
Without proper brushing and flossing, you may develop bleeding gums, which may worsen to severely swollen, red, bleeding gums (gingivitis) and, eventually, gum disease. Because diseases of the mouth can affect the rest of your body, it is especially important to maintain good oral health.

See your dentist for regular checkups.

By seeing your dentist at least twice a year, you can help prevent any dental health problems before they cause discomfort or require more comprehensive or expensive treatment. Regular visits allow your dentist to monitor your oral health and recommend a dental health regimen to address areas of concern.
For this new year, resolve to treat your mouth right: improve your diet, quit smoking and improve your oral hygiene habits – your teeth and your body will thank you for it!

All you want for Christmas...

2011-12-22T08:28:00.000-06:00

…are good dental tips (and your two front teeth)! Christmas is around the corner and all the preparations should have started long before; the Christmas cards, year-end updates, family trip, parties, etc … but Christmas would not be complete without food.

Some people may have started restraining their food consumption one or two months before Christmas to create some space that would be filled during the festive season.

If you have prepared yourself to eat to your heart’s content, make sure that your teeth are also in good shape. The last thing that you want is to have unwanted surprises, such as broken fillings, sensitive teeth, chipped tooth, or a major toothache in the middle of the holiday season.

Having your teeth checked is the simplest thing that you could do to give you some peace of mind, especially if you have not seen a dentist for more than 6 months. With many insurance policies based on a calendar year, this is also a good time to ensure that your teeth are maintained in good condition. It would also be a bonus to start the new year with pearlie white teeth !

Some other useful holiday dental tips include:

Choosing the right snacks! Avoid sticky, acidic and sugary dishes. Also, moderate the consumption of food that requires more time to chew or suck, such as sweets and hard nuts.
Watch what you drink. Soft drinks, frizzy beverages, or drinks that are too hot or too cold may not be friendly to your teeth. Whenever possible, use a straw, as it may help to reduce the contact of the drink with your teeth.
Brush after meals or the least gargle with plain water after eating. Most importantly, at the end of the day, do not go to sleep before brushing and flossing your teeth.
Prepare the young ones! Most adults are capable of taking care of their oral hygiene. However, if you have little ones at home, bring them along when you visit your dentist and ensure any underlying issues are addressed early. You can help to watch their diets by introducing them to healthier snacks such as; cheese, carrot sticks, or fruits.
Keep the right contacts handy,such as your dentist’s emergency contact number and the hospital’s Accident and Emergency number.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!

End of the Year Dental checklist

2011-12-09T08:34:00.000-06:00

Do you have left over insurance or flex money for 2011?
Let’s maximize your insurance!

Review your remaining insurance benefits for 2011

Use up flex money for 2011

Take advantage of special year-end ortho financing

Call Stacey, our insurance specialist for help reviewing your remaining benefits

Plan for treatment that needs to be done next year

Get kids in for orthodontic consult for next year’s flex and insurance planning

Talk to AFD staff to see what treatment needs to be done next year

Need more help planning? Schedule a free consult to review your treatment needs.

Fun stuff!

Pick up some great dental products for Xmas gifts

Like us on Facebook to get the latest product discounts, be eligible for special drawings and receive a $10 Target gift card at your next hygiene appointment.

Protecting teeth before they are there.

2011-12-05T10:06:00.000-06:00

New parents have one more reason to pay attention to the oral health of their toothless babies. A recent University of Illinois study confirms the presence of bacteria associated with early childhood caries (ECC) in infant saliva.

ECC is a virulent form of caries, more commonly known as tooth decay or a cavity. Cavities are the most prevalent infectious disease in U.S. children, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

"By the time a child reaches kindergarten, 40 percent have dental cavities," said Kelly Swanson, lead researcher and U of I professor of animal science. "In addition, populations who are of low socioeconomic status, who consume a diet high in sugar, and whose mothers have low education levels are 32 times more likely to have this disease."

Swanson's novel study focused on infants before teeth erupted compared to most studies focused on children already in preschool or kindergarten - after many children already have dental cavities.

"We now recognize that the "window of infectivity," which was thought to occur between 19 and 33 months of age years ago, really occurs at a much younger age," he said. "Minimizing snacks and drinks with fermentable sugars and wiping the gums of babies without teeth, as suggested by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, are important practices for new parents to follow to help prevent future cavities."

In addition, his team used high-throughput molecular techniques to characterize the entire community of oral microbiota, rather than focusing on identification of a few individual bacteria.

"Improved DNA technologies allow us to examine the whole population of bacteria, which gives us a more holistic perspective," Swanson said. "Like many other diseases, dental cavities are a result of many bacteria in a community, not just one pathogen."

Through 454 pyro-sequencing, researchers learned that the oral bacterial community in infants without teeth was much more diverse than expected and identified hundreds of species. This demonstration that many members of the bacterial community that cause bio film formation or are associated with ECC are already present in infant saliva justifies more research on the evolution of the infant oral bacterial community, Swanson said.

Could manipulating the bacterial community in infants before tooth eruption help prevent this disease in the future?

"The soft tissues in the mouth appear to serve as reservoirs for potential pathogens prior to tooth eruption," he said. "We want to characterize the microbial evolution that occurs in the oral cavity between birth and tooth eruption, as teeth erupt, and as dietary changes occur such as breast feeding vs. formula feeding, liquid to solid food, and changes in nutrient profile."

Swanson said educating parents-to-be on oral hygiene and dietary habits are the most important strategy for prevention of dental cavities.

Poor Oral Health a Contributing Factor in Sinus Infections

2011-11-28T15:39:00.002-06:00

Oral health could be a contributing factor in sinus infections. Upper sinus infections can be worsened by gum disease or cavities. Patients and dental professionals may forget how close the sinus cavities are to the mouth and teeth. For these reasons dental health and regular checkups are an important part of diagnosing and treating upper sinus infections.

Sinuses have several pairs of left and right sinuses including ethmoid, frontal, maxillary sinus cavities and sphenoid. Maxillary sinuses are the largest of the paranasal sinuses. They are located in the upper jaw areas under the eye sockets and at the back of the cheekbones.

When the flow of mucus gets blocked, a sinus infection may result. Colds and influenza are common causes of maxillary sinusitis. A deviated septum, an abnormality in the ridge which obstructs the nasal passage, causing drainage problems and poor ventilation can cause a sinus infection. Another cause is an enlarged turbinate’s. If these conditions are not the root of the problem, dental origins should be examined.

Frequent sinus infections or a sinus infection that will not go away, even after treatment, may have a possible oral link. Dental causes of maxillary sinusitis are often over looked by general practitioners accustomed to finding bacterial infection and allergies as the origin of the sinus infection. A thorough dental exam should be considered.

Some of the most common symptoms of an upper sinus infection are foul smelling yellow-ish-green mucus discharge from the nasal passages and a toothache from the molars of the upper jaw. Most people have difficulty in distinguishing the difference between a toothache and a sinus infection because the roots in the upper teeth are near the maxillary sinus cavities.

To determine whether a sinus infection is the cause of a toothache, it is necessary to see a dentist, who can determine the location of the pain. Where the pain is located indicates whether or not it is a sinus infection. Research has shown a connection between maxillary sinus infections and impacted wisdom teeth, cavities, crown fractures and unfinished dental work.

It is necessary to seek advice of a dentist or an ear, nose and throat doctor to know the right treatment. Several treatments are available depending on the reason of the nasal problem that causes toothache, including allergy medication, nasal drops, antibiotics or nasal wash regimen. In addition, dental treatment is necessary to treat areas affected by sinus infection.

For more information check out www.sinusinfectionhelp.com.

What kind of account best fits you?

2011-11-21T10:14:00.000-06:00

What type of an account do you have? FSA or HSA?

A Flexible Spending Account (FSA), and its related Health Savings Account (HSA), are employer-sponsored benefits that enable you to pay for eligible medical/dental expenses on a pre-tax basis. An FSA or HSA saves you money by reducing your income taxes. And contributions you make to your flex spending account (or health savings account) are deducted from your check before any of your taxes are calculated and are never reported to the IRS. The overall result? You decrease your taxable income and increase your disposable income which can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars a year. If you expect to incur medical/dental expenses not reimbursed by your current health insurance, you should definitely think about participating in an FSA or HSA if one is offered.

Caution: Potential Downsides to a Flexible Spending Account “FSA”

But before you jump at enrolling in one of these cafeteria plan type programs, there is a potential downside to a Flex Spending Accounts and it has to do with not using all of the money you set aside.

That's right – every month you set aside funds to cover your medical/dental costs with an FSA. But what happens if you're getting to the end of the year and a chunk of change is still sitting in your FSA? Here comes the bad news … studies have shown that employees on average lose approximately $100 annually in forfeited balances within their employee health care flex spending accounts because any money remaining in your flexible spending account on Dec 31 disappears – right into the pockets of your employer.

The Good News with Health Savings Accounts “HSA”

However, this "use it or lose it" issue with FSA's is not an issue with HSA's. Unlike a flex savings account, you don't lose your money at the end of the year with health savings accounts. It simply rolls over and continues to grow...year after year, to be used for eligible medical expenses, especially those times when you have higher than expected health care costs. Also, an HSA is portable. If you leave your employer, no problem. The HSA is yours; you take it with you.

We know these health care savings and spending plans can get confusing. We hope it helps you sort through the choices and make a decision which is best for your family. If you need to review your treatment needs for your flex account planning, please call our office and talk to Kelly (651) 482-1122.

Never too Late!

2011-11-15T11:08:00.000-06:00

Am I too old for braces? The answer is NO! Braces don’t have an age limit. There are many benefits to straightening your teeth at any age.

Healthier Teeth: Straight teeth can help with cleaning of your teeth. If you have crowding or crooked teeth, you know how difficult it can be to brush and floss in those crowded spaces. This can lead to decay or gum disease. If you are unable to successfully clean all surfaces of your teeth due these issues, straightening the teeth can keep your teeth and gum tissue healthier and stronger.

More Confidence: People want to look and feel great. Many adults choose to straighten teeth because they dislike their smile. Crooked teeth can make people feel uncomfortable and insecure about smiling. At our office, we have seen the confidence that a new smile can provide. Don’t let your smile hold you back from your full potential.

Increase Attractiveness: What do people find most attractive in others? The smile. According to a national survey from the American Dental Association and Crest® and Oral B® finds that the smile outranked eyes, hair and the body as the most attractive physical feature. If you are still looking for that special someone and wish your smile was better, give us a call.

Improve Job Opportunities: In this economy, adults are seeking any opportunity to gain an advantage in the job market. More than ninety percent of Americans feel that an attractive smile increases their chances of being better perceived in personal and professional situations.

Eliminate Chronic Pain: If you suffer from chronic headaches or jaw pain, it could be that your teeth are misaligned. Orthodontics might just be the thing to eliminate the pain.

We would love to work with you to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Please call to schedule an appointment for an orthodontic consultation. Your beautiful and healthy smile is just a few steps away. If you would like a better smile but don’t want orthodontics, stop in and see us anyway. You may be a candidate for veneers. A quick and easy way to fix your smile in a couple of hours.

Michelle

Does Candy = Cavities?? A parents guide

2011-11-08T09:09:00.001-06:00

1) How does one get cavities in the first place? What causes them?

Cavities are caused by millions of bacteria that are present in the mouth. They become very active when an individual eats certain foods, especially those containing sugar -- processed sugar and natural sugar, such as is present in fruit and fruit drinks. Carbohydrates and starches also cause the bacteria to become active. When bacteria are on the teeth too long, they produce an acid that eats away at the tooth and causes cavities to form. You cannot get rid of these bacteria, which aid in digestion.

2) Do certain candies cause cavities more so than others?

Certain candies and foods are more likely to cause cavities, not because of greater sugar content, but because they leave a sticky residue on teeth that makes it easier for the bacteria to attach and have an "acid attack" on the teeth. Candies such as caramels, gummy bears, and even fruit roll-ups, which are marketed as "healthier," fall into this category.

3) Is there any candy out there that is good for teeth?

The only candy that is good for teeth is sugarless gum that has Xylitol as an ingredient. Some hard candies also may have Xylitol but probably would also be marketed as helping to prevent decay.

4) What type of oral hygiene are suggested for kids to prevent getting cavities from their Halloween and Christmas candy?

One of the most important practices to adapt is regular home care routines. Paying attention to your child’s mouth is the number one suggestion for prevention of decay. Bleeding of the gums usually is a sign that bacteria have been there too long and are causing irritation. Keep after those areas more often until there is no more bleeding after a few days. Brushing after breakfast, and brushing and flossing just before going to bed each day, is adequate to keep the mouth healthy for most kids. A fluoride rinse that is available in supermarkets is a good idea for any child who has had even a single cavity — just follow the directions.

Another suggestion be done to prevent decay is to stay regular on hygiene visits so a dentist can evaluate your teeth every 6 months. Catching cavities when they are little can prevent them from becoming a larger hassle, and in turn, a larger cost.

Another important practice of hygiene is to allow your child to brush his/her own teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush, prior to the parent doing it first; this aids in education and the parent can then follow up to be sure an adequate job was done.

Information provided by: Annalisa Harangozo, Annie Lutterman RDH

Keeping up with the Kids

2011-11-01T11:59:00.004-05:00

Among parents with school‐aged children, 17 percent say that their child has missed at least one day of school due to dental related pain or illness1 – the most common chronic childhood disease in America.2 In fact, tooth decay (cavities) affects one fifth (21.1 percent) of children 6-11 years of age, over half (59 percent) of children 12 to 19 years of age, and over 90 percent of adults 20 years and over.

But when it comes to healthy mouths, there is a reason to smile. Tooth decay really is preventable, beginning with daily care and education at home. Sixty‐eight percent of parents say teaching children to brush and floss twice daily is among the most important health care concerns for their children.4 While we recognize that teaching a child to take proper care of his or her teeth is no easy task, Oral Health America has some simple ideas and suggestions to share with your kids to help keep their teeth and mouth happy and healthy.

Brush

Dr. Zollinger will tell you that brushing teeth may be the most important thing you can do to ensure a healthy smile. Advance Family Dental wants you to remind children to brush their teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time, using less than a pea‐size amount of fluoride toothpaste. With younger children, use a child‐size soft‐bristle toothbrush, and brush the front, back, inner and outer surfaces and tops of their teeth, as well as their tongue, with short, gentle, back‐and forth motions. Then let them practice brushing.
Keep an eye on older children to make sure they are reaching all of their tooth surfaces, as well
as gently brushing along the gum line. Children with braces need to spend extra time on hard to-reach spots!

Eat

Nutritious foods are an important part of keeping children’s smiles healthy and their teeth strong. Foods such as fruits, vegetables and cheese help build strong muscles and bones in their bodies and also help build strong healthy teeth and gums. Try chewing a sugar free gum, like Trident, after meals to help fight cavities.

Floss

Have children gently floss once a day to remove food that can get stuck between their teeth and sticky plaque that forms on their teeth. Brushing alone cannot reach all of the surfaces on a tooth—and flossing is very important in maintaining healthy gums, which provide vital support for each tooth. How do you make flossing simple for children? Use helpful tools like Plackers, Kids Flossers to make flossing fun and easy to remember! If you begin to run out of your much needed floss come in to Advance Family Dental and get some more.

Avoid

Avoid soda, juice, and sticky and sugary foods. Bacteria that live in our mouths love these sugary substances and turn them into acids that cause tooth decay. When kids do have a special treat, make sure they brush and floss afterwards. Sharing spoons, cups, straws, and cleaning pacifiers by mouth can also cause bacteria to be passed on from parent or caregiver to child. Do not put a child to bed with a bottle!
Routine
The more you help kids incorporate healthy dental care habits in their everyday life, the more likely they will initiate self‐care on their own as they grow. Parents should set a great example by taking care of their own mouths, too. Remember—you are your child’s biggest role model and influence.

Oral Health America encourages daily dental care as part of back to school and fall routines
because there’s no better time to start than right now. How will your family Fall for Smiles this
season?

Find more information at www.oralhealthamerica.org/fallforsmiles.

Oral Health Challenge: 5 Tricks for Dealing with Halloween Treats

2011-10-24T13:34:00.002-05:00

Children’s Halloween dream -- to get lots of candy -- can be their parents ‘nightmare. But pediatric dental experts say Halloween can be a time to teach your children good oral health habits for life, without depriving them of Halloween treats (think moderation). Here are their five best tricks for healthy teeth.
Halloween Candy vs. Cavities: Don’t Make Kids Choose

Don't deny your children the Halloween experience. That can send the entirely wrong message -- deprivation -- and make candy seem even more irresistible, leading to other problems. They may end up sneaking sweets or eating too much candy once they're out on their own. Instead, let them have the joy of Halloween in all its sticky goodness and the experience of going to a party or trick-or-treating.

After your children get back from trick-or-treating or a party, go through their bags of Halloween candy together. Tell them to each pick the 10 or so (whatever number you decide, based on factors such as age) treats they want the most.

Get the unpicked treats out of sight. You can donate them to a food bank or freeze them if you can't bear to throw them out.

This can also be a good time to teach (or remind) children that it isn't just excess sugar that can lead to cavities. Snacks such as pretzels, with starches that stay in the mouth longer, can also lead to cavities, as can fruit juices.

Letting children help decide what is a reasonable amount of candy to keep has benefits beyond good oral health. The message isn't "candy is bad," but that candy and other sweets, in excess, can lead to cavities. Children learn two important lessons:

How to control their diets
That what they eat relates to oral health, not just physical health

Preventing Cavities in Children: Set a Treat Time
With your child, set a time of day to eat Halloween candy. This ritual“treat time” may last long after Halloween and help promote healthy thinking about treats:

Children learn that eating sweets shouldn’t be an all-day feast. Moderation is key.
Knowing they have a specific sweet time can help make children less inclined to think about eating sweets at other times of the day.

Children’s Oral Health: Set Up a Teeth Brushing Schedule
No matter when treat time is, it's crucial to brush soon after. If it is nighttime, for example, brushing and flossing teeth before bed will help sweep away the recent sweets. Fluoride mouth rinses for kids also help prevent tooth decay, according to the American Dental Association.

Until a child is 7 or 8 years old, a parent should help with teeth brushing, not simply supervise. Even after age 8, parents should supervise brushing. That includes friendly reminders to older children to brush and floss until they get to high school, when it should be a habit.
Use Disclosing Tablets, Swabs, or Solution
Some dentists use ''disclosing tablets” to spot bacterial plaque on teeth. These chewable tablets temporarily stain the plaque that builds up on teeth.

Parents can also use disclosing tablets, solution, or swabs to show children how well they are brushing or flossing their teeth -- especially if they already have a cavity or two. A 12-pack of disclosing tablets is available over the counter and online for about $5.

You may want to schedule a disclosing session once a week or so, to keep your child on his toes.

Keep Teeth Brushing Fun

You should replace toothbrushes every three or four months anyway, so make Halloween an occasion for getting your child a new brush. Dentists say that when children like the toothbrushes, they are more apt to enjoy brushing. Children can choose from a variety of kid-sized brushes that feature cartoon characters and colorful designs. Young children typically can't wait to use a new toothbrush.

Children also like to pick out their own toothpaste. Give your child the freedom to pick from gels or pastes, different colors, and different flavors. Just check the tube label to be sure it contains fluoride.

Check the condition of your child's toothbrush from time to time. If it doesn't look worn after weeks of use, he may not be brushing well.

Insurance Benefits

2011-10-17T12:08:00.000-05:00

At Advance Family Dental, nothing is more important to us than your satisfaction, comfort & dental health. Particularly this year, we want to help you stretch your budget a little further!

Your 2011 insurance period is ending and the next year’s insurance is about to begin. As the year ends, it is frequently a very cost-efficient time for you to receive comfortable & state-of-the-art dental care that will make your life more enjoyable… and your smile brighter…for many years!

At this time of year, your care can usually be structured so that you can receive more of the finest dentistry that your family needs while maximizing your remaining insurance benefits.

So please, don’t put it off any longer! We’ll help you make the absolute most of your remaining 2011 insurance.

At Advance Family Dental your comfort and absolute satisfaction with your dental health is our primary concern. Please call us today for your October, November or December appointment! We’re looking forward to seeing you soon!

What kind of Power brush do you need?

2011-10-10T10:31:00.000-05:00

Power Toothbrush Vs. Manual Toothbrush
Wondering if that hi-tech power toothbrush on display at your dentist’s office is really better than the regular ones? What about a power toothbrush that uses AA batteries? What’s the difference between them all?
In addition to things like your brushing technique, how often you brush and the length of time you spend doing it, experts believe that the type of toothbrush you use will directly affect how well you remove plaque.1 In order to decide which type of power toothbrush is right for you, it’s helpful to understand exactly what kinds are available to you and how they differ from one another.

Knowing the Three Types of Power Toothbrushes

The three types of power toothbrushes on the market are rechargeable electric (including sonic), regular manual and battery power.

Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush: A rechargeable electric toothbrush, also known as a “power toothbrush”, is the kind you plug into the wall to recharge, keeping the handle and replacing the brush head every three months. Rechargeable electric toothbrushes differ among the kind of cleaning technology they use, such as oscillating-rotating (3D Cleaning Action) or sonic technology.
Regular Manual Toothbrush: In contrast, regular manual toothbrushes are the basic toothbrushes you’re probably accustomed to with a plastic handle and various nylon bristle designs on the brush head. This is the most common type of toothbrush, and it doesn’t require any power sources.
Battery Power Toothbrush: Those who want a dose of power but are weary of electric toothbrushes may like battery power toothbrushes. Like electric toothbrushes, battery power toothbrushes are sometimes simply called “power toothbrushes” due to their use of an AA battery. While similar in design to regular manual toothbrushes, battery power toothbrushes have just enough vibration to add some extra cleaning action.

Feeling the Difference in Plaque Removal

According to a 2005 independent study, “Brushes that worked with a rotation oscillation action removed more plaque and reduced gingivitis more effectively than manual brushes in the short and long-term... No other powered brush designs were consistently superior..."2 Oral-B pioneered this oscillating-rotating power technology in 1991 and has incorporated it into its premium power toothbrush range ever since. Recently it has also incorporated this technology into lower cost options, like Oral-B Vitality.

Assessing Technology and Features

Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush: Generally rich in technology and features, electric toothbrushes provide the many oral health benefits. Some can even enable you to improve your brushing habits. Hi-tech features include:

Numerous brushing modes specialized for sensitive teeth, whitening benefits or gum-massaging action
Pressure sensors to signal when you’re brushing too hard
Timers to help you keep track of how long you’re brushing each quadrant of your mouth
Digital reminders to replace your brush head
Oscillating-rotating or sonic technology
Multiple brush head compatibility so you can choose which kind of bristle design you prefer

Most electric toothbrushes also come with features for added convenience, like a brush head or toothbrush holder, bathroom-counter storage units and travel toothbrush chargers.
Regular Manual Toothbrush: While ordinary toothbrushes don’t nearly provide the benefits and features of rechargeable electric toothbrushes, the technology featured in their brush heads, bristles and handle designs can be quite advanced, for example:

Crisscrossed, extra-long or multi-level bristles
Polished or rounded bristle tips
Textured bristles
Cupped-bristle design for whitening benefits
Ergonomically designed handles with special grips
Tapered or angled brush head
Gum stimulators
Tongue cleaner pads

Battery Power Toothbrush: While similar in features to regular manual toothbrushes, these kinds of toothbrushes also vibrate to provide additional cleaning action. In addition to those of manual toothbrushes, features include:

Built-in AA battery that can be replaced in some models
“On/Off” or “+/-“ button located on the handle
Bristles or split brush heads specially designed to pulsate along with the vibrations

Modifying Brushing Technique

Proper brushing technique varies when using different kinds of toothbrushes. Both regular manual toothbrushes and battery power toothbrushes require you to provide all or most of the brushing action, moving the brush back and forth along all sides of your teeth and gums. In contrast, rechargeable electric toothbrushes provide the cleaning action while you need only guide it along all surfaces. Once they get the hang of it, many people find this method of brushing easier.

Understanding Power Toothbrush Value

Rechargeable electric toothbrushes tend to have a higher price value than battery power and regular manual toothbrushes, but you can find some for as low as $22 MSRP, like Oral-B® Vitality. Keep in mind that they offer more health benefits and features. Regular manual toothbrushes cost the least, and they are often sold in multi-packs as well as individually. Battery power toothbrushes are usually only a few dollars more than ordinary manual toothbrushes.

Trying Out a Power Toothbrush

It’s understandable to want to test-out a rechargeable electric toothbrush before buying a hi-tech one for the first time. While your dental professional is the best person to ask for a recommendation, you may also consider some affordable, entry tier options like Oral-B® CrossAction® Power Max or Oral-B® Vitality. They’re ideal for people who are curious about giving power a try but want a taste of what it’s like first.

Dr. Z

Resources

1 Egelberg J and Claffey N. In: Proceedings of the European Workshop on Mechanical Plaque Control. Quintessence Books. 1998; 169 - 172
2 Robinson PG, et al., Manual versus powered toothbrushing for oral health, The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2005; Issue 2. This study did not endorse, and is not affiliated with, Oral-B products.

Power Toothbrushes

2011-10-03T10:09:00.002-05:00

Features of a Power Toothbrush
Simply stated, rechargeable electric toothbrushes (or “power” toothbrushes) provide superior plaque removal to regular manual toothbrushes. And because they provide the brushing action for you, many people find using power toothbrushes easier than using regular manual ones. Additionally, with so many different types and features available, it’s easy to find one that suits your specific oral health needs.

Superior Plaque Removal

According to a 2005 independent study, “Brushes that worked with a rotation oscillation action removed more plaque and reduced gingivitis more effectively than manual brushes in the short and long-term... No other powered brush designs were consistently superior..."* Oral-B pioneered this oscillating-pulsating and cupping power technology in 1991 and has incorporated it into its premium power toothbrush range ever since.

* Robinson PG, et al., Manual versus powered tooth brushing for oral health, The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2005; Issue 2. This study did not endorse, and is not affiliated with, Oral-B products.

Ease of use where as you have to move a regular manual toothbrush back and forth along your teeth, power toothbrushes provide the cleaning action for you. That means you need only guide it along the surfaces of your teeth. Once they get the hang of it, many people find this method of brushing easier. Likewise, people with arthritis or other similar conditions may find using a power toothbrush less painful. Power toothbrushes may also help kids brush their teeth more effectively, but sure to check the age recommendations on an electric toothbrush before letting your child use it.

Technology and features generally rich in technology and features, some power toothbrushes can even enable you to improve your brushing habits. And most come with convenient features like a brush head or toothbrush holder, bathroom-counter storage units and travel toothbrush chargers. Hi-tech features may include:

·         Numerous brushing modes specialized for sensitive teeth, whitening benefits or gum-massaging action Pressure sensors to signal when you’re brushing too hard
·         Timers to help you keep track of how long you’re brushing each quadrant of your mouth
·         Digital reminders to replace your brush head
·         Oscillating-pulsating and cupping, oscillating-rotating or sonic technology

·         Multiple brush head compatibility so you can choose which kind of bristle design you prefer.

Credit Care Financing

2011-09-28T16:24:00.001-05:00

WHAT IS CARECREDIT FINANCING? Care Credit is accepted by over 140,000 providers and is the nation’s leading patient financing program. Care Credit, is a part of GE Capital and offers healthcare financing for consumers through a network of over 140,000 providers. It is a healthcare credit card that can be used as a payment option for certain expenses not covered by insurance or to bridge situations when desired care exceeds insurance coverage. Care Credit is a simple way to consolidate and manage certain out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, because it is a credit card it gives you a revolving line of credit that can be used repeatedly and for any family member. Care Credit offers two basic payment plans to meet an individual’s financial needs. Each month you only need to pay the required minimum monthly payment and pay off the remaining balance within the promotional period to avoid interest. Care Credit is widely used for:

·         Dentistry
·         Veterinary medicine
·         Hearing care
·         Cosmetic treatments and surgery
·         Vision Correction

WHY USE CARECREDIT?
No introductory rates. No application fees. No pre-payment penalties. Just Special Financing every time. Need more time or want a lower monthly payment? We offer Extended Payment Plans with low fixed monthly payments and a competitive interest rate.

Use your cash and major credit cards for other expenses and use this great option to pay for your treatment.

We offer interest free financing plans from 6 to 12 months. We also have longer term plans for up to 60 months with lower monthly payments and a competitive interest rate.

How do I qualify for Care Credit?
Approval is based on information from your credit application and past credit history. This includes information from the primary applicant as well as any co-applicant.

Fast, easy and secure! You can complete the 5 minute application either at the office or in your own home.

Find out instantly if you are approved and start using your account immediately — even before your card arrives!

Visit Carecredit.com to get more information or to complete a quick application.

In-Office VS. At Home Tooth Whitening

2011-09-19T11:40:00.001-05:00

Besides maintaining a healthy weights and having clear skin, the importance of clean, white teeth has been raised to the top of most everyone’s appearance agenda.
Teeth tend to stain for many reasons such as smoking, drinking coffee, tea, or pop. But stains can also be caused by certain antibiotics, such as tetracycline or too much fluoride.

While there are a number of over-the-counter whitening systems including toothpastes, mouth rinses, stripes and trays, there are also many in-office treatments available including bleaching, bonding and the latest high-tech option laser tooth whitening which we call Zoom.

Supervised bleach procedures that are done in-office and at home have become the most popular treatment options. In some cases, the procedure is performed entirely in the office, using a light or heat source to speed up the bleaching process. In other cases, impressions are taken in the office and the patient does the bleaching at home.

At-home procedures include the use of mouth trays and consist of placing a bleaching solution, usually a peroxide mixture, in a tray that has been custom fitted for the patient’s mouth.

Bleaching solutions vary in potency and patients are instructed to wear the trays for only an hour of throughout the night, depending on the severity of the tooth discoloration. Some patients ask about the side effects or discomfort they may experience during the whitening process. A few side effects that some have experienced include increased temperature sensitivity in the teeth or slight gum irritation from the use of mouth trays.

We caution our patients against using exorbitant amounts of the over-the-counter home bleaching products. These products can and will wear away tooth enamel, especially with solutions containing acid.

The systems we use and recommend help out patients to achieve a bright, white smile. As with any procedure, it is best to consult with us to determine the best course of treatment for you personally.

Dr. Z

Smoking and Gum Disease

2011-09-07T13:02:00.000-05:00

How Does Smoking Affect Gum Disease? Smoking is one of the major causes of gum disease and other oral diseases. Smoker's gum disease is an infection in the gums that is caused by smoking.

1. Prevalence

· Statistics show that smokers lose more teeth during their lifetime than nonsmokers. In fact, more than 40 percent of people over the age of 65 who have lost all of their teeth are smokers. Also, smokers are five times more likely to get gum disease than nonsmokers.

Effects

· Smoking also causes gums to not heal as well after dental treatment. This can be prevented by quitting smoking before starting treatment.

Reasons

· Smoking can lead to gum disease by causing tartar to build up in the teeth, destruction of gum tissue and bone loss. Smoking also causes the immune system to not work as well against fighting the infections of gum disease.

Symptoms

· Smoking can actually hide some of the symptoms of gum disease, so you should check your gums frequently and carefully. Symptoms of gum disease are red, swollen and tender gums that bleed easily, spaces between the gums and teeth and receding gums.

Prevention/Solution

· The only way to prevent gum disease caused by smoking is to quit smoking. Quitting smoking can also reverse the symptoms of gum disease.

CHANCE

Welcoming a New Family Member!

2011-08-30T13:09:00.001-05:00

Melissa, her husband Cory and daughter Camden are excited to announce their newest addition. Sawyer Todd was born on August 12th weighing 8lbs 6oz. Congratulations Melissa

What is Orthodontics?

2011-08-29T08:50:00.000-05:00

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The technical term for these problems is "malocclusion," which means "bad bite." The practice of orthodontics requires professional skill in the design, application and control of corrective appliances, such as braces, to bring teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment and to achieve facial balance.

What causes orthodontic problems (malocclusions)
Most malocclusions are inherited, but some are acquired. Inherited problems include crowding of teeth, too much space between teeth, extra or missing teeth, and a wide variety of other irregularities of the jaws, teeth and face.
At what age can people have orthodontic treatment?
Children and adults can both benefit from orthodontics, because healthy teeth can be moved at any age. Because monitoring growth and development is crucial to managing some orthodontic problems well, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have an orthodontic screening no later than age 7. Some orthodontic problems may be easier to correct if treated early. Waiting until all the permanent teeth have come in, or until facial growth is nearly complete, may make correction of some problems more difficult.
Michelle

Facts on Flossing

2011-08-22T08:47:00.000-05:00

How important is flossing? According to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), flossing is the single most important weapon against plaque.
Floss removes plaque and debris that sticks to teeth and gums in between teeth, polishes tooth surfaces, and controls bad breath. By flossing your teeth daily, you increase the chance of keeping them for a lifetime and decrease the chance of getting gum disease.

Most people cite lack of time as a reason for not flossing. However, the AGD says flossing even two or three times a week has its benefits and is far better than not flossing at all.

Choosing your floss:

Whether waxed or unwaxed, flavored or unflavored, wide or regular size, floss of any type helps clean and remove plaque. Here are some tips about the characteristics of different types of flosses:

Wide floss, also known as dental tape, may be a better choice for people with bridgework. Dental tape also is recommended when people have wider-than-average space between their teeth.

Waxed floss can be easier to slide between closely spaced teeth.

Unwaxed floss will squeak against cleaned teeth, indicating plaque has been removed.

Bonded unwaxed floss does not fray as easily as regular unwaxed floss, but does tear more than waxed floss.

Which type you use depends upon your mouth, personal preference and dentist's recommendations.

Do not substitute water picks for brushing and flossing. Unlike flossing, water picks do not remove plaque. They are effective for people who have orthodontic braces, which may retain food in areas a toothbrush cannot reach.

How to floss:

Break off about 18 inches of floss, and wind most of it around one of your middle fingers.

Wind the remaining floss around the same finger of the other hand. This finger will take up the floss as it becomes used.

Hold the floss tightly (without any slack) between your two hands, with about an inch of floss between them. Guide the floss between your teeth using a gentle sawing motion.

When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a C-shape against the tooth. Gently slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth until you feel resistance.

Hold the floss against the tooth. Gently scrape the side of the tooth, moving the floss away from the gum.

Repeat this technique on all of your teeth, including the teeth in back.

Chance

Tooth Decay

2011-08-15T08:39:00.000-05:00

Tooth decay starts when bacteria that produces acid surrounds the tooth, this bacteria can also be called plaque. Fluoride in your teeth is an important tool in helping to kill decay before it starts to eat your teeth. Healthy teeth have fluoride in the enamel designed to beat the plaque buildup.

Practice of poor hygiene and only brushing teeth once or every other day will result in significant tarter and plaque buildup around the teeth. Your mouth is full of bacteria that are always there, but only one type of bacteria will produce the acid that corrodes teeth. Decay causing bacteria can be passed from one person to another by sharing the same drink, kissing, or eating from the same plate.

Once decay has set in your tooth's enamel the process will move slowly. The decay will then make its way through your second layer of enamel; it will be heading to the pulp at an increased speed. The part of your tooth that contains your tooth's nerves and blood source is called the pulp. The most crucial area of your tooth is the pulp, and the decay will try to infect the pulp quickly. The pain of your tooth's decay will be most apparent when the decay reaches this point, because the decay will be eating the nerve endings in your tooth.

Tooth decay will typically take around two or three years to make its way through your tooth's enamel. It can take less that even one year, or in some cases six months to reach the pulp. Once the tooth decay reaches the dentin the decay will eat away most of the actual tooth in a matter of months or even weeks. A very preventable type of tooth decay is called smooth decay. Smooth decay begins with a white spot on your tooth; the bacteria will then start to dissolve the enamel of your tooth. Smooth decay generally targets young adults at the ages of twenty through thirty.

Another serious type tooth decay is root decay, which starts out on the surface of your tooth's root. Root decay is usually the result of having a dry mouth, generally not taking good care of your teeth, or eating lots of sugar. Root decay targets those in their middle ages, and if very difficult to prevent. Most people that have root decay have their teeth removed because the decay moves so quickly.

Fissure decay or pit decay is a moderately serious type of tooth decay that begins in the narrow divots near your molars. This kind of decay moves quickly, significantly faster than smooth decay. Most people, during brushing, miss the small grooves because they are hard to reach with every day brushing. Even if you take good care of your teeth a dentist is recommend cleaning in these areas during routine checkups.

Tooth decay is very serious, and precautions should be practiced to help prevent it. Some preventive tips included; regular dentist cleaning and checkups, good oral hygiene, and less sugary foods. Using mouthwash is another great way to help prevent tooth decay by killing the bacteria in your mouth. The good news is that regular checkups should keep you from getting one of these extremely serious tooth decay infections in the future. Finding tooth decay sooner rather than later can be the difference in saving your tooth or not, so it is highly recommended to see your dentist regularly.

Annie

Fluoride Facts

2011-08-08T10:18:00.000-05:00

Fluorine, from which fluoride is derived, is the 13th most abundant element and is released into the environment naturally in both water and air.

Fluoride is naturally present in all water. Community water fluoridation is the addition of fluoride to adjust the natural fluoride concentration of a community's water supply to the level recommended for optimal dental health, approximately 1.0 ppm (parts per million). One ppm is the equivalent of 1 mg/L, or 1 inch in 16 miles.

Community water fluoridation is an effective, safe, and inexpensive way to prevent tooth decay. Fluoridation benefits Americans of all ages and socioeconomic status.

Children and adults who are at low risk of dental decay can stay cavity-free through frequent exposure to small amounts of fluoride. This is best gained by drinking fluoridated water and using fluoride toothpaste twice daily.

Children and adults at high risk of dental decay may benefit from using additional fluoride products, including dietary supplements (for children who do not have adequate levels of fluoride in their drinking water), mouth rinses, and professionally applied gels and varnishes.

Good scientific evidence supports the use of community water fluoridation and the use of fluoride dental products for preventing tooth decay for both children and adults.

Adjusting the level of fluoride in drinking water first used fluoride as a preventative for tooth decay in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Fluoridation of drinking water has been used successfully in the United States for more than 50 years.

Fluoridation of community water has been credited with reducing tooth decay by 50% - 60% in the United States since World War II. More recent estimates of this effect show decay reduction at 18% - 40%, which reflects that even in communities that are not optimally fluoridated, people, are receiving some benefits from other sources (e.g., bottled beverages, toothpaste).

Fluoride's main effect occurs after the tooth has erupted above the gum. This topical effect happens when small amounts of fluoride are maintained in the mouth in saliva and dental plaque.

Fluoride works by stopping or even reversing the tooth decay process. It keeps the tooth enamel strong and solid by preventing the loss of (and enhancing the re-attachment of) important minerals from the tooth enamel.

Of the 50 largest cities in the United States, 43 have community water fluoridation. Fluoridation reaches 62% of the population through public water supplies, more than 144 million people.

Water fluoridation costs, on average, 72 cents per person per year in U.S. communities (1999 dollars).

Consumption of fluids--water, soft drinks, and juice--accounts for approximately 75 percent of fluoride intake in the United States.

Children under age six years may develop enamel fluorosis if they ingest more fluoride than needed. Enamel fluorosis is a chalk-like discoloration (white spots) of tooth enamel. A common source of extra fluoride is unsupervised use of toothpaste in very young children.

Fluoride also benefits adults, decreasing the risk of cavities at the root surface as well as the enamel crown. Use of fluoridated water and fluoride dental products will help people maintain oral health and keep more permanent teeth.

Annie, RDH

MI Paste

2011-08-01T13:14:00.000-05:00

MI Paste is specifically formulated toothpaste meant for people with many well-known problems with teeth including sensitivity, fluorosis, white spots, and high decay risk. MI paste contains elements such as Sodium fluoride and calcium phosphate. We need these minerals for the health of our teeth and prevention of cavities. MI paste works with your saliva to seal the tubules in your teeth making the tooth stronger, therefore, more resistant to cavities and sensitivity. It also helps re-calcify any areas of the teeth that have begun to break down or turn to a white-chalky color. This is common after orthodontic treatment. Discuss with your dentist or hygienist today to see if MI Paste is right for you!

What makes an automatic toothbrush better than a manual toothbrush? I like to recommend automatic tooth brushes for the simple fact that it covers more ground in less time and in a more thorough action than a regular brush. The Rotadent toothbrush is a toothbrush that is dispensed only by a dental office. It has specially designed heads to fit the different shapes of the teeth and gums. The head of the toothbrush does full rotations completely eliminating plaque from hard- to- reach nooks and crannies. As the brush spins it stimulates the gum tissue leaving your mouth feeling fresh and smooth. Ask about our Rotadent toothbrush and its special heads today!

Annie, RDH

What is Gum Disease?

2011-07-25T11:09:00.001-05:00

Often taken for granted, the monotonous task of brushing and flossing our teeth daily has never been more important in order to avoid gum disease and the risks gum disease place on our overall health. It has been estimated that 75% of Americans have some form of gum disease, which has been linked to serious health complications and causes various dental problems that are often avoidable.

What is Gum Disease?

Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is mainly caused by bacteria from plaque and tartar build up. Other factors that have the potential to cause gum disease may include:

Tobacco use

Clenching or grinding your teeth

Certain medications

Genetics

Types of Gum Disease Include:

Gingivitis - The beginning stage of gum disease and is often undetected. This stage of the disease is reversible.

Periodontitis - Untreated gingivitis may lead to this next stage of gum disease. With many levels of periodontitis, the common outcome is chronic inflammatory response, a condition when the body breaks down the bone and tissue in the infected area of the mouth, ultimately resulting in tooth and bone loss.

Signs of Gum Disease Include:

Red, bleeding, and/or swollen gums
Bad breath
Mobility of the teeth
Tooth sensitivity caused by receding gums
Abscessed teeth
Tooth loss

Recent studies suggest gum disease may contribute to or be warning signs of potentially life threatening conditions such as:

Heart Disease and Stroke - Studies suggest gingivitis may increase the risk of heart disease and stroke because of the high levels of bacteria found in infected areas of the mouth. As the level of periodontal disease increases, the risk of cardiovascular disease may increase with it. Other studies have suggested that the inflammation in the gums may create a chronic inflammation response in other parts of the body which has also been implicated in increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Diabetes - People with diabetes often have some form of gum disease, likely caused by high blood glucose, according to the CDC. People with diabetes need to take extra care to ensure proper brushing and flossing techniques are used to prevent the advancement of the gum disease. Regular check-ups and cleanings with your dental hygienist should be followed.

Chronic Kidney Disease - A study, conducted by Case Western Reserve University, suggests that people without any natural teeth, known as edentulous, are more likely to have chronic kidney disease (CDK), than people with natural teeth. CDK affects blood pressure potentially causing heart disease, contributed to kidney failure, and affects bone health.

Preterm Birth - Babies that are born premature -- before 37 weeks of gestation -- may face numerous health complications. Research indicates that women with periodontal disease are three to five times more likely to have a baby born preterm compared to women without any form of gum disease. Women are more susceptible to gingivitis when pregnant and should follow their regular brushing habits, and continue with dental cleanings and examinations.

Treatments for Gum Disease:

Removal of plaque and calculus by way of scaling done by your dental hygienist or dentist.

Medications such as chlorhexidine gluconate, a mouth rinse prescribed by your dentist or hygienist to help kill the bacteria in your mouth, along with frequent cleanings.

Surgery may be necessary in certain cases to stop, halt, or minimize the progression of periodontal disease. Surgery is also used to replace bone that was lost in advanced stages of the disease.

What Can I Do to Prevent Gum Disease?

Proper brushing and flossing is the easiest way to reduce and prevent gum disease, but regular cleanings with your dental hygienist or dentist are necessary to remove calculus and treat advanced gum disease. If you are concerned that you may have gum disease, contact your dentist.

Chance

6 Reasons NOT To Put Off Your Dentist Appointments

2011-07-19T14:54:00.003-05:00

So if you have been putting off visiting the dentist for your regular hygiene treatments think about these 6 reasons not to put it off any longer.
When you have your dental cleaning, your dentist is also screening you for oral cancer, which is highly curable if diagnosed early.

Gum disease is an infection in the gum tissues and bone that keep your teeth in place and is one of the leading causes of adult tooth loss. If diagnosed early, it can be treated and reversed.

Recent studies have linked heart attacks and strokes to gum disease, resulting from poor oral hygiene. A dental cleaning every 6 months helps to keep your teeth and gums healthy and could possibly reduce your risk of heart disease and strokes.

Early detection of cavities, broken fillings and gum disease are easily treatable. If these problems go untreated, root canals, gum surgery and removal of teeth could become the only treatment options available.

During your cleaning, your hygienist will also polish your teeth to a beautiful shine. The result? A whiter and brighter smile!

Dental insurance plans usually pay for all or most of the cost of dental cleanings and checkups every six months!