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Lasers have been used in a variety of medical procedures, such as those used by dermatologists to remove skin abnormalities, or cold lasers that treat pain, inflammation and headaches, for example. But you may not know that lasers are also used in dental procedures. You might think that use of lasers in dentistry is new technology, but lasers were actually first used in dental procedures way back in 1960. Of course, it took several years before the use of lasers became as commonplace as it is today, but by the 1990s many dentists were using lasers for a wide variety of dental procedures. Some of these include the following:

• Gum disease treatment – Lasers are often used to remove bacteria from gum tissue, such as in root canal procedures. Lasers are also very helpful in reshaping gum tissue, like removing a portion of the gums to correct a “gummy smile,” for example.
• Tooth decay removal – Lasers have been shown to be very effective in removing decay from teeth, such as in preparation for a filling or crown.
• Teeth whitening – Some teeth whitening services involve use of a laser to speed up the whitening process.
• Removal of lesions – Lasers are helpful in the removal of lesions inside the mouth, as well as removal of tissue for biopsy purposes.

Lasers provide several advantages for the dentist and the patient. Lasers are typically much less painful than use of invasive instruments to perform the same procedure. When patients know this, it can help to alleviate any anxiety they might be feeling. Procedures performed with lasers cause much less bleeding and swelling of the gum tissues. And lasers allow gums to heal more quickly since there is less bleeding and swelling, which means that it requires less time for the patient to recover afterwards.

Although many dentists use lasers for a variety of procedures – most with great success – you should know that the American Dental Association has still not awarded their Seal of Acceptance to any dental laser system or tool. The seal shows that a dental device or product has met the ADA’s standards for safety and efficacy. Lasers have been approved by the FDA, however, and even the ADA has stated that it is “cautiously optimistic” about the benefits of laser use in dental procedures.

For more information about how (or if) your dentist utilizes lasers during dental procedures, call your dentist office. They can explain which procedures involve lasers, and help you decide whether you would like your dentist to use laser treatment, or if you’d prefer a more traditional approach to the procedure.

Numerous studies conducted over the past several years have shown a connection between oral health and heart health. Although the two may seem totally unrelated, they are in fact very much connected, specifically with regard to gum disease. Patients with advanced periodontal disease have been shown to have a greater risk of developing heart disease than patients with healthy gums. The current state of your oral health can also provide warning signs to your doctor that you may have other more serious health issues, such as heart disease.

The Role of Inflammation

Just as gum disease caused by bacteria can result in your gums becoming swollen, bacteria can also cause inflammation of the heart. That can lead to cardiovascular diseases, such as clogged arteries or endocarditis (an infection of the heart lining). In fact, the same bacteria that causes gum disease can also travel through the patient’s bloodstream to other areas of the body, including the heart. Once that bacteria reaches the heart, the result is often heart disease or stroke.

People Who Are at Risk

Anyone who has advanced gum disease is at the highest risk of developing oral-health-related heart disease. This is especially true if the patient’s gum disease goes undetected and/or untreated. But even people who don’t have gum disease could have a higher risk for heart disease and stroke if they have poor oral hygiene and a buildup of plaque on the teeth. The bacteria present in plaque can also travel through the bloodstream to the heart.

Symptoms of Gum Disease

The good news is that gum disease is entirely treatable, especially if it’s caught in the early stages. Here are some indications that you might have periodontal disease:

• Gums that are swollen, dark pink or red, and sore
• Bleeding gums (particularly when you floss)
• Gums that are receding or pulling away from the teeth
• Persistent bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Infection of gums around teeth (often indicated by pus on gum tissue)

Treating Gum Disease

Your dentist may recommend any of a variety of procedures designed to treat gum disease, depending on how far the condition has progressed. Deep cleaning may be recommended for patients in the early stages. Prescribed medication and/or oral surgery may be required for more advanced cases. But patients play an important role in prevention and treatment of gum disease as well. Be sure to brush thoroughly at least twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, and floss at least once a day. Consider using an anti-gingivitis mouthwash as well. Combine these daily habits with regular trips to your dentist for professional exams and cleanings, and you might not only improve your oral health; you may improve your heart health as well!

There once was a time not too long ago when the only choice you would have as far as teeth straightening options was traditional metal braces. While these tried and true dental appliances were (and still are) definitely effective, modern technology now provides us with other options as well – such as clear braces, for example. But, as is always the case with any dental procedure or appliance, clear braces may not be the best choice for everyone. Here are some facts to consider when deciding whether or not clear braces are right for you.

• Clear braces are actually aligner trays. Although they’re referred to as “clear braces,” these dental appliances are custom-made, clear aligner trays that slip over your top and bottom teeth. Although you can remove the aligner trays yourself, you’ll have to wear them at least 22 hours a day in order for them to be effective.
• You’ll receive a new set of aligner trays from your dentist or orthodontist every two weeks or so. Gradually, over the course of about a year (the exact time varies from one patient to the next), the trays move your teeth into their new, straighter positions.
• Clear braces are virtually invisible. For many dental patients, one of the biggest advantages of clear braces is the fact that they are very hard for other people to see. Metal braces can be embarrassing to wear, but that’s simply not an issue with clear braces.
• Cleaning your teeth and gums is easier with clear braces. Because you can remove the aligner trays to brush and floss, keeping your teeth and gums in tip-top shape is easier than it is with traditional metal braces. You can simply brush and floss as you normally would.
• There are no food restrictions with clear braces. Again, because you can remove the aligner trays when you eat meals, you don’t need to avoid many of the foods that you would need to stay away from if you wore metal braces.
• Most patients report that clear braces are more comfortable than traditional braces. Metal braces can irritate the wearer’s gum tissue and can be uncomfortable. But aligner trays are generally considered to be less irritating than traditional braces.

While clear braces are an excellent choice for people with less serious dental issues – such as those with a slight underbite or overbite, or people with crowded teeth or gaps in between their teeth — they may not be recommended for people with extremely crooked teeth. Your dentist or orthodontist can provide you with more information to help you decide whether you are a good candidate for clear braces.

Having a beautiful smile can play such an important role in the quality of our lives. Just think about it. A nice smile makes you feel more confident about yourself, and can even change the way other people view you for the better! So it’s no wonder so many people are opting for cosmetic dental procedures to improve the appearance of their smiles. Modern cosmetic dentistry provides patients with many options, so we’ve collected information about a few of those procedures to help you decide which one might be best for you.

Teeth Whitening

One of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures is also one of the simplest and least expensive – teeth whitening. There are plenty of over-the-counter products available in your local drug store, but to really see a dramatic difference that whitening can make in your smile, you’ll need to have your teeth professionally whitened by your dentist. Keep in mind, however, that whitening is not the right choice for everyone. It is not recommended for children. People who have sensitive teeth may find that whitening increases that sensitivity to the point that it is painful or uncomfortable for a brief period of time. And people with a large amount of restorative dental work (i.e., fillings, crowns, etc.) should keep in mind that whitening products only work on natural tooth enamel and not on dental material.

Dental Veneers

One relatively simple cosmetic procedure can produce truly dramatic improvements in a patient’s smile. Dental veneers are made of an extremely thin layer of dental porcelain material that is applied over the top of each tooth using an adhesive material. Veneers are often an effective way to resolve a variety of minor dental issues, such as cracked teeth, permanently stained or yellowed teeth, and teeth with wide gaps in between, to name just a few. When you see picture-perfect celebrity smiles, many of them are the result of this popular cosmetic dentistry procedure.

Dental Bonding

Bonding is one of the most economical ways to repair teeth that are damaged or discolored. The results are impressive and the procedure is quick and easy. Your dentist simply applies a bonding material over the surface of your existing tooth, then uses a special light to harden the material. Bonding may be relatively inexpensive, fast and simple, but it does have some limitations. Bonded teeth can be stained in much the same way as your natural teeth. The bonding material will need to be replaced every few years. And bonded teeth are susceptible to damage, so patients are advised to avoid some problematic foods.

If you’d like to improve the appearance of your smile, ask your dentist about these and other cosmetic dentistry procedures. There’s nothing like a beautiful smile to make you feel good about yourself and improve the quality of your life!

Healthy gums and good oral health go hand-in-hand. In fact, you can’t experience good oral health if you don’t have healthy gums. Periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and has even been associated with more serious ailments, such as diabetes and heart disease, for example. Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take every day to ensure that your gums remain healthy.

• Brush and floss every day. It may sound obvious, but brushing and flossing each and every day is the foundation for good oral health. Remember to change your toothbrush on a regular basis (usually every 3 to 4 months) and to brush as thoroughly as possible every time. After you brush, use floss to remove any remaining food particles between teeth. Most dentists recommend that you brush at least twice a day and floss at least once a day, but if you feel the need to floss more often, your gums will benefit from the extra effort. Just be careful not to damage your gums with flossing, since lesions in the gum tissue can become infected.
• Remove any sticky residue left on teeth. If you notice leftover food particles along your gum line even after brushing and flossing, use a toothpick or other over-the-counter dental instrument to remove as much of the residue as possible, taking care not to harm your gums in the process. This sticky residue is the early stages of plaque formation, so it’s helpful to remove it whenever you notice it.
• Use an antiseptic mouthwash. One excellent way to remove any remaining food debris between teeth is with an over-the-counter antiseptic mouthwash. Find a brand that includes “anti-gingitivis” on the label to ensure that you’re using a formula designed to promote gum health.
• Maintain a healthy diet. Certain foods are particularly good for your oral health. These include dairy products that contain high amount of calcium, such as cheese. Other foods actually help to clean your teeth, massage your gums, and neutralize acid inside your mouth – celery and apples are two good examples. And, of course, don’t eat too much sugar. You may have a sweet tooth, but unfortunately bacteria does too, and sugary foods feed the bad bacteria inside your mouth.
• Visit your dentist regularly. No matter how careful you are about your oral hygiene routine at home, you’ll never remove all the plaque and tartar that build up on teeth both above and under the gum line without frequent professional cleanings. You should visit your dentist for an oral exam and cleaning at least twice a year, or as often as your dentist recommends.

Healthy gums are much like the foundation of a house: without a good foundation, the house will crumble. Fortunately, by following these simple steps and visiting your dentist on a regular basis, you can achieve good oral health that will last a lifetime.

There are so many healthy habits we can engage in to help promote our good oral health – habits like brushing and flossing every day, eating a healthy diet, and visiting your dentist on a regular basis for oral exams and professional cleanings. While it’s always a good idea to keep these healthy habits in mind, it’s also important to remember what NOT to do. The unfortunate fact is that there are many habits that can damage your teeth and gums, so think twice before you engage in any of these.

• Watch what you drink. Although it’s important to stay hydrated, some drinks can wreak havoc with your teeth and gums. Sugary sodas come in at the top of that list. In fact, even sugar-free sodas are bad for your oral health. The acidity of sodas damages your teeth. If there’s sugar involved, that’s even worse. Alcohol has the same problem – the acidity erodes the enamel of your teeth. Alcohol also decreases saliva production, which means you’ll be less likely to wash away any remaining food particles or bacteria inside your mouth.
• Stay away from sugar. No surprise here. Eating sugary foods and drinking sugary beverages is one of the worst things you can do for your teeth. And the more time your teeth are exposed to sugar, the worse it becomes. That means that foods that are likely to remain for a long time inside your mouth (like hard candies, for example) and others that are likely to stick to the surface of your teeth (such as caramel candy) are the worst of the worst. Limit your intake of foods and beverages containing sugar. If you have a sweet tooth, fruit is a great option; apples in particular.
• Don’t smoke. It’s just as simple as that. Smoking is a nasty habit that causes your teeth to turn yellow and can eventually lead to oral cancer. Chewing tobacco is much worse than smoking because the tobacco stays in direct contact with your teeth and gums for long periods of time. If you chew tobacco or smoke, your teeth and gums will suffer the consequences.
• Watch out for medications that can cause a dry mouth. Several different types can fall into this category, including both over-the-counter and prescription medication. Reduced saliva production can make you more prone to tooth decay.
• Don’t grind your teeth. This may sound like simple advice, but it’s a habit that’s difficult to break on your own. Teeth grinding can wear down your teeth and also lead to pain in your jaw and other issues. If you grind your teeth while you sleep, talk to your dentist about methods that can help with this problem. Mouth guards, for example, can alleviate the symptoms of bruxism (teeth grinding).
• Your teeth are not tools. There are many instruments designed for opening bottles or removing clothing tags, but your teeth don’t fall into that category.

Maintain your healthy teeth and gums by engaging in healthy habits every single day. When it comes to good oral health, remembering what NOT to do is important!
 

We all know someone who brags about their report from the dentist. “No cavities, once again!” he says, as he flashes that million-watt smile. If you get cavities from time to time, his candor may make you wonder: have I mastered the art of the 45 degree toothwide brushstroke? Perhaps I need a flouride treatment? Do I need to defer to superstition and prayer along with regular check-ups?

Yes and no.

The truth is, your friend may have been born with a great predisposition to oral health. Along with your dad’s sense of humor, you may have inherited his jaw size and susceptibility to gum disease. But your genetic disposition only goes so far. Routine cleaning and check-ups, proper dental care, and early diagnosis and treatment can ensure you give yourself the best chance for a great report and an enduring smile.

What can be inherited, and what can I do about it?

When people say they have “bad teeth,” they’re likely referring to three problems: misalignment, gum disease and tooth decay.

Misalignment. Since genetics determines the shape of your jaw, you can thank your predecessors for crowding, under bites, and overbites.

Getting braces on our kids early can positively alter the structure of their teeth and help to develop their bones. For adults, the benefits are more than aesthetic. A proper bite, straight teeth, and an aligned jaw can enhance long-term oral health.

Periodontal disease: About one-third of the population is predisposed to gum disease. This is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place, and is characterized by inflammation and sensitivity, and can lead to decay.

For those who are predisposed to gum disease, proper dental hygiene and early detection can slow and reverse its advances. If you know your parents or other family members have had gum disease, tell your dentist.

Tooth decay: More than half the risk of decay is linked to genetic factors and researchers have linked tooth decay to variations in one gene. Our genetic profile can describe the flavors we prefer, our enamel, the strength of our saliva, even the way our immune system reacts to bacteria in our mouth.

But about 40% of tooth decay issues are environmental. This confirms the value of regular cleanings and checkups, proper brushing, and a low-sugar diet. If you are disposed to tooth decay, you can also talk to your dentist about sealants, fluoride treatments, and prescription toothpastes and mouth rinses.

Your soda-drinking, candy-eating friend who boasts about his perfect report may just be lucky, but there is no reason to despair–so much is actually in our control.

If you grew up in the 1980s or 1990s getting clunky metal braces was almost a rite of passage. You’d show up to school one day, and instead of pearly whites you’d have a cumbersome metal track in your mouth accented with dayglow rubber bands. This rite of passage is no longer necessary. In recent years, more people have chosen to go with Invisalign, a more comfortable a discreet option that works faster and is also safer for your teeth. If you’ve made this choice or are thinking about opting for Invisalign, the following are fundamental tactics to get the most out of your treatment:

Keep your teeth extra clean

Since the aligners enclose your teeth, saliva cannot easily rebuild the enamel surfaces. Also, the trays can also hold in the matter that is made loose by your brushing routine. Because your enamel is comprimised and you may have gunk enclosed in the tray, you are more susceptible to cavities. Devote yourself to regular flossing, opt for a whitening toothpaste and be prepared to get cleanings more frequently. You’ll also want to rinse your tray each time you remove and replace it.

Follow your doctor’s plan

Orthodontists recommend you keep them on for 20-22 hours a day. Because Invisalign is a removable plastic tray, it may be tempting to take them off often. Try to keep them on unless you’re eating or caring for your teeth. This is especially important for the first 48 hours, when you put on a new aligner. While you change aligners around every two weeks, you’ll want to commit yourself to following the doctor’s orders. This can mean taking one aligner out early or leaving it in for a few extra days. Do not take it upon yourself to hurry the process.

Modify your diet and drink lots of water

Follow the dietary plan outlined by your doctor. When you feel tenderness in your mouth you’ll want to avoid crispy, crunchy, or chewy food. The mouth may respond to the aligner by producing more saliva, which can be dehydrating. So you’ll want to drink a lot of water and clear, sugar-free fluids during your treatment. When wearing your aligners, you’ll also want to avoid hot drinks, which can warp the plastic, and light liquids, which can stain your teeth.

Go with the flow

Like all orthodontic treatments, Insvisalign takes various adjustments as it enhances your smile. You may notice a lisp at the beginning, but practice speaking with the tray in your mouth and you’ll get used to it. There are also some tricks for reducing soreness. When starting with a new aligner, for example, you’ll want to mitigate your discomfort by putting it in when you go to bed. In all phases of the treatment, trust the process. Do not hurry it along or slow it down, and you will see marked results in short order.

Smile, kiss, and laugh

Invisalign allows you to align your smile without the inhibition and discomfort of metal braces. You can look directly at the camera, laugh, take selfies, and kiss your partner spontaneously and without reservation. If you follow the habits described above, listen to your doctor, and lean into the process, you may find yourself smiling and laughing more freely than ever.

Most of us have at least heard the term “stem cell therapy.” Researchers have been studying the use of stem cells for several years. This remarkable science has been applied to a large variety of medical issues, such as injuries to the spinal cord, insulin production in diabetes patients, repairing of heart muscle cells after a heart attack, Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, Parkinson’s disease and other conditions. But you may not have heard how stem cell therapy is connected to oral health. Experts are now extending stem cell research into the field of dentistry. While these studies are just in the beginning phases, the possibilities for how stem cells may change dental technology are exciting and hold much promise for future advancements. It all revolves around root canals.

A root canal is a procedure that is often recommended by a dentist when an infection has spread into the pulp of the tooth. The process involves drilling deep into the affected tooth, removing the pulp, then filling the tooth and sealing it off. Although the tooth remains functional since a tooth doesn’t require pulp to function like other teeth, a root canal does in effect kill the tooth since nerves, connecting tissue and blood vessels (pulp) are removed during the procedure.

But now, researchers from Harvard and the University of Nottingham may have developed a method of using stem cell therapy that may completely eliminate the need for root canal procedures. These researchers are working on a process that involves injecting a material made partly from stem cells into an affected tooth. After this mixture is injected, the stem cells will theoretically allow the tooth to heal itself, as opposed to a dental professional having to remove the pulp of the tooth in a root canal procedure. This new technology, if proven true and made available to dental professionals, could mean a significant reduction in the need for root canals and other procedures such as dental implants, for example.

Although much work needs to be done before stem cell treatment is routinely used in your dentist’s office, the future looks promising. This should come as particularly good news for people who are fearful of dental procedures. A patient with dental anxiety will undoubtedly cringe at the thought of having a root canal or implant, but someday before too long those procedures may be a thing of the past, thanks to stem cell research.

As parents, the one thing we would give to our children if we could is good health. If only that were possible! Actually, when it comes to good oral health, there are several ways you can help your children enjoy a lifetime of healthy smiles.

• Get your child accustomed to oral care from the very beginning. Once your child’s first tooth erupts, gently clean the tooth and gums with a soft, damp cloth. Not only will this clean your child’s mouth; it will also help your little one to feel more comfortable with oral hygiene in general. As more baby teeth begin to erupt, continue this same routine, switching from a damp cloth to a very soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Teach them to take care of their teeth and gums every single day. With the help of your dentist, show them the proper way to brush and floss their teeth. Make it part of their daily routine, morning and night. When these everyday routines become a habit for children, they’re much more likely to continue them throughout their lives.
• Take your child in for his or her first dental visit by the age of one. That may sound early, but getting your little ones accustomed to visiting the dentist at a very early age will make it easier to take them in as they grow older. It also allows your dentist to identify any dental or gum issues that may be present at an early age, so they can be resolved quickly. After that first visit, continue with follow-up visits every six months, or as often as recommended by your dentist.
• Make sure your child eats a diet that is healthy for teeth and gums. And remember that it’s not just candy and baked goods that contribute to tooth decay – otherwise healthy foods like dried fruits and juice can also be culprits. Encourage your child to eat as much fresh and cooked produce as possible, along with lean protein. Water is the best beverage, since it works to neutralize acidity in your child’s mouth.
• Maintain your own oral health as well. Bacteria present in your mouth can easily be transferred to your child if you share saliva on an eating utensil or by snuggling with your little one, for example. If you maintain your own daily oral hygiene regimen, not only are you acting as a good role model for your child; you’ll also be reducing the amount of bacteria you unknowingly pass on to your little one.

We may not be able to protect our kids from certain childhood diseases or the occasional fall on the playground, but thankfully we can have a positive influence on their oral health. With some encouragement from an early age, your child will learn how to enjoy healthy teeth and gums for many, many years!