How Teeth Decay
Our goal is to help you prevent tooth decay and keep your natural teeth for a lifetime. That’s why we want you to understand the process of tooth decay, from start to finish. Armed with this knowledge, you can take steps to stop tooth decay in its tracks.
Bacteria and sugar are the culprits
Thousands of bacteria exist in everyone’s mouth. Most of these bacteria are beneficial. But there are two types of bacteria, mutans streptococcus and lactobacillus, that are the primary culprits in the tooth decay process. If you’re not brushing and flossing regularly, or if your oral environment is out of its natural balance, these bacteria reproduce quickly in your mouth, establishing huge colonies whenever they are given the opportunity to feast on foods that contain sugar.
Sugars, which are the building blocks of starchy foods like pasta, crackers, bread and sweets, can build up on your teeth if you don’t brush regularly. This sugar buildup is one component of plaque, a sticky film of saliva, food debris, and bacteria that’s constantly forming on your teeth. If it’s not removed, plaque mineralizes and can turn into rock-hard tartar in as little as 24 hours.
To survive and multiply in your mouth, the decay-causing bacteria feed off of the simple sugars that are produced from the starches you eat. This causes a chemical reaction in which the sugars ar broken down into simpler elements. One of these elements is an acid. As you probably know, acid breaks down many things, including your tooth enamel. Every time you eat a starchy food, your teeth are bathed in this acid for 20 minutes or more.
The process of decay
The acid slowly dissolves the hard, protective enamel layer on your teeth, forming a demineralized area that appears as a white or brown spot on your tooth. That spot is the first visible sign of tooth decay. If the area does not remineralize, it will progress until a hole, also known as a cavity, develops on the surface of your tooth. It’s vital that we treat your tooth decay early, before it can penetrate the surface of your tooth. Once a cavity has entered the softer dentin layer of your teeth, it can grow more quickly and may lead to a much more complicated and expensive set of problems.
How to avoid decay
You can cut down the frequency of acid production in your mouth by limiting the number of times you eat each day. Also, when you brush and floss properly and regularly, there’s very little plaque on your teeth. Consequently, the number of decay-causing bacteria on the surfaces of your teeth will be dramatically reduced, and in turn, they won’t be producing the enamel-destroying acid. You should also use toothpaste that contains fluoride, which will strengthen your tooth enamel so it’s more resistant to decay. And what about the times when you can’t brush? You’ll need to use other methods, like rinsing with water or a fluoride mouth rinse or chewing sugarless gum, to minimize the acid attacks and protect your teeth.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Hidden Dangers
Endodontic Abscess
An endodontic abscess forms at the root tip
An endodontic abscess is a pocket of pus that forms in the jawbone at the tip of a tooth root. An endodontic abscess is painful and can lead to much more serious conditions, but with prompt treatment, we can help you maintain a healthy mouth and body.
Symptoms of an endodontic abscess
You may realize that you have an endodontic abscess when:
The causes of an endodontic abscess
An endodontic abscess is caused by an infection of the pulp layer of the tooth. It becomes infected when bacteria, which are always present in the mouth, invade the pulp through deep cavities, a fractured or broken tooth, or an injury to the tooth. In some cases, there is no apparent reason. The infection can then spread from the pulp chamber, down the root canals, through the tip of the root, and into the jawbone, where the pus builds up and creates a hole in the bone. This is the abscess. The abscess creates pressure inside the bone and on the ligaments surrounding the tooth, and this can cause excruciating pain. Sometimes, the abscess drains near the infected tooth, forming a gumboil.
Diagnosis and treatment
It is important to treat an endodontic abscess because, if left untreated, the abscess can damage the adjacent soft tissue, lead to bone loss, be a continuing source of infection that drags down your immune system, and even be life threatening. To find an endodontic abscess, we perform a thorough examination, including x-rays. On the x-ray above, you can see a dark area at the root tip, which indicates an endodontic abscess. We may also use an electric pulp tester to determine whether the pulp is inflamed or infected. An infected tooth will never heal on its own, so we remove the infection with root canal therapy, which allows the abscess to heal. Occasionally, however, the infection continues to grow after treatment. In that case, we may re-treat the tooth with root canal therapy or use a minor surgical procedure to stop the infection and restore the health of your tooth.
An endodontic abscess forms at the root tip
An endodontic abscess is a pocket of pus that forms in the jawbone at the tip of a tooth root. An endodontic abscess is painful and can lead to much more serious conditions, but with prompt treatment, we can help you maintain a healthy mouth and body.
Symptoms of an endodontic abscess
You may realize that you have an endodontic abscess when:
- The tooth hurts when you tap or bite on it
- You have a bad taste in your mouth
- You experience pain and swelling
The causes of an endodontic abscess
An endodontic abscess is caused by an infection of the pulp layer of the tooth. It becomes infected when bacteria, which are always present in the mouth, invade the pulp through deep cavities, a fractured or broken tooth, or an injury to the tooth. In some cases, there is no apparent reason. The infection can then spread from the pulp chamber, down the root canals, through the tip of the root, and into the jawbone, where the pus builds up and creates a hole in the bone. This is the abscess. The abscess creates pressure inside the bone and on the ligaments surrounding the tooth, and this can cause excruciating pain. Sometimes, the abscess drains near the infected tooth, forming a gumboil.
Diagnosis and treatment
It is important to treat an endodontic abscess because, if left untreated, the abscess can damage the adjacent soft tissue, lead to bone loss, be a continuing source of infection that drags down your immune system, and even be life threatening. To find an endodontic abscess, we perform a thorough examination, including x-rays. On the x-ray above, you can see a dark area at the root tip, which indicates an endodontic abscess. We may also use an electric pulp tester to determine whether the pulp is inflamed or infected. An infected tooth will never heal on its own, so we remove the infection with root canal therapy, which allows the abscess to heal. Occasionally, however, the infection continues to grow after treatment. In that case, we may re-treat the tooth with root canal therapy or use a minor surgical procedure to stop the infection and restore the health of your tooth.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
What If? Wednesday
Space Maintainers
If your child's bite becomes irregular from early tooth loss, an option is available to ensure proper tooth formation in the future. Space maintainers are a valuable investment in the success of your child's oral health for years to come.
Why are baby teeth important?
Normally, as a permanent tooth comes in under a baby tooth, the roots of the baby tooth dissolve away, and the permanent tooth replaces the baby tooth. In addition to being important for chewing, the baby tooth holds the adjacent teeth in place. When a baby tooth is lost early, due to decay or injury, the adjacent teeth may drift together, causing loss of space in the dental arch.
Placing a space maintainer
When a baby tooth is lost early, this shifting and loss of arch space can be prevented by placing a space maintainer. It generally takes two appointments to complete a space maintainer. During the first appointment, an orthodontic band is carefully placed and an impression is taken. A model of the child’s mouth is made from this impression so that the dental laboratory can form the space maintainer to the exact contours of the mouth. During the next appointment, the space maintainer is tried in, adjusted if necessary, and then cemented in place.
Caring for a space maintainer
Space maintainers are used until the permanent teeth begin to break through the gums. While wearing a space maintainer, it is important to avoid chewing gum, sticky candies, and hard foods like nuts or ice. Following up with periodic checks of the space maintainer here in our office will make sure it’s still functioning properly and keeping all the teeth in their proper position.
If your child's bite becomes irregular from early tooth loss, an option is available to ensure proper tooth formation in the future. Space maintainers are a valuable investment in the success of your child's oral health for years to come.
Why are baby teeth important?
Normally, as a permanent tooth comes in under a baby tooth, the roots of the baby tooth dissolve away, and the permanent tooth replaces the baby tooth. In addition to being important for chewing, the baby tooth holds the adjacent teeth in place. When a baby tooth is lost early, due to decay or injury, the adjacent teeth may drift together, causing loss of space in the dental arch.
Placing a space maintainer
When a baby tooth is lost early, this shifting and loss of arch space can be prevented by placing a space maintainer. It generally takes two appointments to complete a space maintainer. During the first appointment, an orthodontic band is carefully placed and an impression is taken. A model of the child’s mouth is made from this impression so that the dental laboratory can form the space maintainer to the exact contours of the mouth. During the next appointment, the space maintainer is tried in, adjusted if necessary, and then cemented in place.
Caring for a space maintainer
Space maintainers are used until the permanent teeth begin to break through the gums. While wearing a space maintainer, it is important to avoid chewing gum, sticky candies, and hard foods like nuts or ice. Following up with periodic checks of the space maintainer here in our office will make sure it’s still functioning properly and keeping all the teeth in their proper position.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Hard Tissue Laser
At Riverside Dental, we are always seeking out the newest technology to make your visit more effective and comfortable. As part of our ongoing commitment to patient education, an explanation of hard tissue lasers follows. If you have any questions about your treatment, feel free to discuss them with any member of our staff on your next visit.
Healthy smiles go high tech with lasers
A laser uses a focused beam of energized light and water that is concentrated on the treatment area. A laser does not touch the teeth like a handpiece does, so there is no vibration to cause pain. Some people need a little anesthetic, but most do not need any at all. That means no shots, no numbness. Your procedure can be faster because you are not waiting for anesthesia to affect or wear off. A laser is quiet. The most you will hear is a low popping sound.
Usually the only preparation you need is to wear protective eyeglasses. When removing tooth decay, for example, the laser targets dead tissue. The bacteria absorb the light and infected cells explode. The laser also sterilizes the tissue, leaving it free from disease. Because the laser removes the decay – and only the decay, it leaves more of the healthy tooth structure than a handpiece would. Often, the repaired tooth is stronger because the laser is used.
A laser is a great breakthrough for working on hard tissue such as teeth and bone.
Like any tool, a laser cannot do everything.
The FDA has approved the use of lasers on everyone of every age.
Dentistry is keeping up with scientific advances, and that makes it easier for you to have a healthy, beautiful smile.
Healthy smiles go high tech with lasers
A laser uses a focused beam of energized light and water that is concentrated on the treatment area. A laser does not touch the teeth like a handpiece does, so there is no vibration to cause pain. Some people need a little anesthetic, but most do not need any at all. That means no shots, no numbness. Your procedure can be faster because you are not waiting for anesthesia to affect or wear off. A laser is quiet. The most you will hear is a low popping sound.
Usually the only preparation you need is to wear protective eyeglasses. When removing tooth decay, for example, the laser targets dead tissue. The bacteria absorb the light and infected cells explode. The laser also sterilizes the tissue, leaving it free from disease. Because the laser removes the decay – and only the decay, it leaves more of the healthy tooth structure than a handpiece would. Often, the repaired tooth is stronger because the laser is used.
A laser is a great breakthrough for working on hard tissue such as teeth and bone.
- It can work with little or no anesthesia
- It can sterilize infected tissue
- It eliminates the heat, noise, and vibration of a traditional handpiece
- If your do not need anesthesia, you spend less time waiting to get numb, and your recovery time can be faster.
Like any tool, a laser cannot do everything.
- It cannot remove silver fillings
- It cannot remove porcelain onlays or crowns
- It won’t completely eliminate the need for traditional handpieces
The FDA has approved the use of lasers on everyone of every age.
Dentistry is keeping up with scientific advances, and that makes it easier for you to have a healthy, beautiful smile.
Monday, May 24, 2010
TMI - The Monday Inquiry
Hygienists
When you come to our office for professional dental cleaning, you can be assured that we have some of the most highly qualified hygienists working for us. Always eager to increase the efficacy of our practice, we use top of the line instruments and technology to keep your mouth healthy.
Hygienists’ education and training
A registered dental hygienist is a highly trained, licensed oral health professional who specializes in providing you with clinical, therapeutic and educational services to enhance your oral and overall health. Hygienists receive intensive, specialized education and training that includes courses in chemistry, physiology, nutrition, microbiology, head and neck anatomy, oral pathology, pharmacology, and radiology. Additional courses also include advanced dental science and dental hygiene. Prior to graduation, a hygienist must pass rigorous tests and complete hundreds of clock hours of supervised instruction in clinical practice.
What hygienists do
A hygienist serves many functions in the dental office. The hygienist carefully examines your teeth, mouth, and gums and looks for any signs of decay, periodontal disease, oral cancer, or other problems. A hygienist also takes dental x-rays so the dentist can view them and quickly diagnose any problems that may exist. As part of the preventative function of the job, your hygienist uses specialized instruments and techniques to thoroughly clean all surfaces of your teeth. These procedures comfortably remove plaque, tartar, and stains from above and below your gumline. A hygienist is often involved with the specialized treatment of gum disease, such as scaling and root planing. A hygienist may also apply fluoride gels or other treatments. Your hygienist will teach you how to effectively care for your teeth at home to help you prevent decay, gingivitis and periodontal disease, show you how to select the proper toothbrush and dental floss, and demonstrate the most effective techniques for brushing and flossing. A hygienist can also explain the relationship between a healthy diet and dental health, offering suggestions about which foods select and which to avoid. Your hygienist is an excellent educational resource who can help you and your family keep your healthy smiles for a lifetime.
When you come to our office for professional dental cleaning, you can be assured that we have some of the most highly qualified hygienists working for us. Always eager to increase the efficacy of our practice, we use top of the line instruments and technology to keep your mouth healthy.
Hygienists’ education and training
A registered dental hygienist is a highly trained, licensed oral health professional who specializes in providing you with clinical, therapeutic and educational services to enhance your oral and overall health. Hygienists receive intensive, specialized education and training that includes courses in chemistry, physiology, nutrition, microbiology, head and neck anatomy, oral pathology, pharmacology, and radiology. Additional courses also include advanced dental science and dental hygiene. Prior to graduation, a hygienist must pass rigorous tests and complete hundreds of clock hours of supervised instruction in clinical practice.
What hygienists do
A hygienist serves many functions in the dental office. The hygienist carefully examines your teeth, mouth, and gums and looks for any signs of decay, periodontal disease, oral cancer, or other problems. A hygienist also takes dental x-rays so the dentist can view them and quickly diagnose any problems that may exist. As part of the preventative function of the job, your hygienist uses specialized instruments and techniques to thoroughly clean all surfaces of your teeth. These procedures comfortably remove plaque, tartar, and stains from above and below your gumline. A hygienist is often involved with the specialized treatment of gum disease, such as scaling and root planing. A hygienist may also apply fluoride gels or other treatments. Your hygienist will teach you how to effectively care for your teeth at home to help you prevent decay, gingivitis and periodontal disease, show you how to select the proper toothbrush and dental floss, and demonstrate the most effective techniques for brushing and flossing. A hygienist can also explain the relationship between a healthy diet and dental health, offering suggestions about which foods select and which to avoid. Your hygienist is an excellent educational resource who can help you and your family keep your healthy smiles for a lifetime.
Friday, May 21, 2010
FYI Fridays: HIPAA
HIPAA regulations
HIPAA stands for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. It is a set of standards created by the US Congress to streamline the flow of information in the healthcare system and to protect your personal health information. HIPAA regulations apply to most health plans and to any healthcare provider who electronically transmits healthcare information.
Your rights under HIPAA
Your rights and the privacy of your healthcare information are important to us. Under HIPAA, you have the rights to:
The HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices
As part of our compliance with HIPAA, we provide you with a Notice of Privacy Practices. We ask you to sign a form acknowledging your receipt of the Notice. Your rights and the privacy of your healthcare information are important to us. We are always glad to answer any of your questions about our privacy practices or your rights under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act.
HIPAA stands for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. It is a set of standards created by the US Congress to streamline the flow of information in the healthcare system and to protect your personal health information. HIPAA regulations apply to most health plans and to any healthcare provider who electronically transmits healthcare information.
Your rights under HIPAA
Your rights and the privacy of your healthcare information are important to us. Under HIPAA, you have the rights to:
- Confidentiality regarding your healthcare information
- Access your protected healthcare information
- Copy, amend and restrict access to your protected healthcare information
- File a complaint with the US Department of Health and Human Services about how your healthcare information has been used
- An accounting of how your healthcare information has been disclosed
The HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices
As part of our compliance with HIPAA, we provide you with a Notice of Privacy Practices. We ask you to sign a form acknowledging your receipt of the Notice. Your rights and the privacy of your healthcare information are important to us. We are always glad to answer any of your questions about our privacy practices or your rights under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Dentures Series
Life with Dentures
Adjusting to new dentures
Now that you have your new dentures, here are some suggestions for living comfortably with them. Some temporary problems are a normal part of adjusting to new dentures. However, with time and practice, you will make the adjustment to dentures and be eating and talking with confidence.
Regular dental visits
Plan on regular visits to our office so we can monitor the health of your mouth and the fit of your denture. We will also let you know when it is time to adjust, reline, or replace your denture.
When to call us
Call us if your bite feels uneven, your dentures become loose, you have persistent discomfort, you have any gagging that persists beyond the initial adjustment period, or if you have any questions or concerns.
Chewing and eating
For the first few months, while you are learning to chew with your denture, start with soft foods, then gradually add more variety. Continue to eat a healthy diet, including plenty of fruits, vegetables and proteins. To make this easier, cut your food into small bites. Bite into foods with the side teeth, not the front teeth. If your denture tips when you chew, try keeping some food on both sides of your mouth to help balance the denture. Occasionally, small pieces of food will work their way under your denture while you eat. Simply remove your denture and rinse it with water. To protect your denture, avoid chewing ice or other hard objects.
Speaking and staying comfortable
You may have difficulty speaking for a short while. If this happens, practice by reading aloud in front of a mirror until you are comfortable. You can also try speaking more slowly and quietly. While your mouth gets used to the new denture, it may seem bulky, you may notice increased salivary flow, and your tongue will feel crowded. These sensations should pass with time. An upper denture causes some people to gag. Call us if this continues beyond the initial adjustment period.
Cleaning and using adhesives
Clean your mouth and denture daily. We will give you complete instructions. Denture adhesives are often not necessary with dentures that fit well. If you would like to try one, ask us about the best kind for your situation. If you do choose an adhesive, it is important to apply it to clean dentures and to thoroughly remove it every day.
Adjusting to new dentures
Now that you have your new dentures, here are some suggestions for living comfortably with them. Some temporary problems are a normal part of adjusting to new dentures. However, with time and practice, you will make the adjustment to dentures and be eating and talking with confidence.
Regular dental visits
Plan on regular visits to our office so we can monitor the health of your mouth and the fit of your denture. We will also let you know when it is time to adjust, reline, or replace your denture.
When to call us
Call us if your bite feels uneven, your dentures become loose, you have persistent discomfort, you have any gagging that persists beyond the initial adjustment period, or if you have any questions or concerns.
Chewing and eating
For the first few months, while you are learning to chew with your denture, start with soft foods, then gradually add more variety. Continue to eat a healthy diet, including plenty of fruits, vegetables and proteins. To make this easier, cut your food into small bites. Bite into foods with the side teeth, not the front teeth. If your denture tips when you chew, try keeping some food on both sides of your mouth to help balance the denture. Occasionally, small pieces of food will work their way under your denture while you eat. Simply remove your denture and rinse it with water. To protect your denture, avoid chewing ice or other hard objects.
Speaking and staying comfortable
You may have difficulty speaking for a short while. If this happens, practice by reading aloud in front of a mirror until you are comfortable. You can also try speaking more slowly and quietly. While your mouth gets used to the new denture, it may seem bulky, you may notice increased salivary flow, and your tongue will feel crowded. These sensations should pass with time. An upper denture causes some people to gag. Call us if this continues beyond the initial adjustment period.
Cleaning and using adhesives
Clean your mouth and denture daily. We will give you complete instructions. Denture adhesives are often not necessary with dentures that fit well. If you would like to try one, ask us about the best kind for your situation. If you do choose an adhesive, it is important to apply it to clean dentures and to thoroughly remove it every day.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Dentures Series
Caring for your Dentures
Now that you have received your denture, it is important to follow these recommendations to ensure its success.
Chewing and eating
To protect your denture, avoid chewing ice or other hard objects. If small pieces of food work their way under your denture while you eat, simply remove your denture and rinse it with water.
Brushing and flossing
Brush your tongue, gums, palate, and any remaining teeth at least twice a day to keep them free of plaque and bacteria. Brushing also massages the gums and keeps your breath fresh. In addition, we may recommend dental floss, mouth rinses, or other chewing aids.
Cleaning your denture
Clean your denture over a sink full of water to prevent your denture from breaking if it is accidentally dropped. Use a denture brush and a denture cleaning product at least once a day to thoroughly clean all of the surfaces of your denture. We may recommend special denture cleansers or brushes. Also, soak your denture periodically in a commercial soaking solution, or, if you denture has no metal parts, you can soak it in a solution of half white vinegar and half water. After soaking, rinse dentures thoroughly in cool water.
Sleeping and storing your denture
Unless we tell you otherwise, remove your denture for sleeping or for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. Store your denture in a soaking solution whenever it is out of your mouth, so it does not dry out.
When to call us
Call us right away if your denture breaks, cracks, or chips, or if a tooth becomes loose, so we can properly repair it. Also call us if your bite feels uneven, your dentures become loose, you have sore spots, irritation, swelling, or discomfort, or if you have any questions or concerns.
Now that you have received your denture, it is important to follow these recommendations to ensure its success.
Chewing and eating
To protect your denture, avoid chewing ice or other hard objects. If small pieces of food work their way under your denture while you eat, simply remove your denture and rinse it with water.
Brushing and flossing
Brush your tongue, gums, palate, and any remaining teeth at least twice a day to keep them free of plaque and bacteria. Brushing also massages the gums and keeps your breath fresh. In addition, we may recommend dental floss, mouth rinses, or other chewing aids.
Cleaning your denture
Clean your denture over a sink full of water to prevent your denture from breaking if it is accidentally dropped. Use a denture brush and a denture cleaning product at least once a day to thoroughly clean all of the surfaces of your denture. We may recommend special denture cleansers or brushes. Also, soak your denture periodically in a commercial soaking solution, or, if you denture has no metal parts, you can soak it in a solution of half white vinegar and half water. After soaking, rinse dentures thoroughly in cool water.
Sleeping and storing your denture
Unless we tell you otherwise, remove your denture for sleeping or for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. Store your denture in a soaking solution whenever it is out of your mouth, so it does not dry out.
When to call us
Call us right away if your denture breaks, cracks, or chips, or if a tooth becomes loose, so we can properly repair it. Also call us if your bite feels uneven, your dentures become loose, you have sore spots, irritation, swelling, or discomfort, or if you have any questions or concerns.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Overdentures
The dentures series continues with information about overdentures, an alternative to conventonial partial dentures, that may be easier for you and living with dentures.
Overdentures
There is a difference
When most of your teeth are missing or must be removed, an overdenture can be a good treatment for replacing them. From the top, an overdenture looks like a conventional denture, but unlike a conventional denture, some teeth are retained, and the overdenture fits over these teeth. With regular adjustments and careful attention to proper homecare, an overdenture can provide a functional bite and a natural-looking smile.
Placing an overdenture
The process of making an overdenture varies in each case, and it usually involves a series of steps and appointments. The first step is to prepare the supporting teeth by removing the portion above the gumline. Second, to prevent inflammation and infection, we perform root canal treatment of the teeth. We may also cover the teeth with small caps or attachments that help the denture stay in place. In the third step we take impressions of your mouth, including the prepared teeth. An accurate model is made from these impressions and the lab uses the model to create the overdenture base. Fourth, in many cases, a wax rim is mounted on the base for you to try in. This helps confirm that the upper and lower teeth are correctly aligned. Fifth, after the try in, the lab creates a wax-up, which is a replica of the final denture. You try in the wax-up, and we note any changes to the fit of the base and to the color, shape and placement of the teeth. We send the wax-up back to the lab, and they process it to create the final overdenture. Finally, when the overdenture is ready, you try it in, and we make any necessary adjustments here in the office.
The benefits of an overdenture
Overdentures have several advantages. Keeping some of your own teeth helps hold the denture in place and makes the denture feel more secure and natural. In addition, because we are able to retain some of your natural teeth, the overdenture slows the loss of jawbone that naturally occurs when teeth are missing. Dentures also provide support for cheeks and lips which give you a more attractive and youthful appearance.
Overdentures
There is a difference
When most of your teeth are missing or must be removed, an overdenture can be a good treatment for replacing them. From the top, an overdenture looks like a conventional denture, but unlike a conventional denture, some teeth are retained, and the overdenture fits over these teeth. With regular adjustments and careful attention to proper homecare, an overdenture can provide a functional bite and a natural-looking smile.
Placing an overdenture
The process of making an overdenture varies in each case, and it usually involves a series of steps and appointments. The first step is to prepare the supporting teeth by removing the portion above the gumline. Second, to prevent inflammation and infection, we perform root canal treatment of the teeth. We may also cover the teeth with small caps or attachments that help the denture stay in place. In the third step we take impressions of your mouth, including the prepared teeth. An accurate model is made from these impressions and the lab uses the model to create the overdenture base. Fourth, in many cases, a wax rim is mounted on the base for you to try in. This helps confirm that the upper and lower teeth are correctly aligned. Fifth, after the try in, the lab creates a wax-up, which is a replica of the final denture. You try in the wax-up, and we note any changes to the fit of the base and to the color, shape and placement of the teeth. We send the wax-up back to the lab, and they process it to create the final overdenture. Finally, when the overdenture is ready, you try it in, and we make any necessary adjustments here in the office.
The benefits of an overdenture
Overdentures have several advantages. Keeping some of your own teeth helps hold the denture in place and makes the denture feel more secure and natural. In addition, because we are able to retain some of your natural teeth, the overdenture slows the loss of jawbone that naturally occurs when teeth are missing. Dentures also provide support for cheeks and lips which give you a more attractive and youthful appearance.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Dentures
Dentures
Everything you ever wanted to know about dentures will be coming in the next few posts, part of our ongoing series postings. Today, an introduction to dentures and the most common - the partial denture. In the next post, overdentures will be discussed - followed by information about caring for your dentures and how they impact your oral care routine. As always, if you have any questions feel free to contact us at any time.
Conventional Partial Dentures
Removable appliances
When many teeth in your upper or lower arch are missing, a partial denture is a good treatment for replacing them. Conventional partial are removable appliances that are held in place by clasps that fir around some of the remaining teeth. With proper home care and regular adjustments and relines, your partial denture can provide a functional bite and a natural-looking smile.
Placing a partial denture
The process of making a partial denture varies in each case, and it usually involves a series of appointments. The first step is to shape the supporting teeth. Next, we take impressions of your mouth, including the prepared teeth. An accurate model of your mouth is made from these impressions, and the lab uses this model to create the denture framework. In some cases, a wax rim is mounted on the framework for you to try in. This helps confirm the correct relationship between the upper and lower teeth. After the try in, the lab creates a wax-up, which is a wax replica of the final denture. Depending on the circumstances, we may have you try in the wax up, and we note any changes to the fit and to the color shape and placement of the teeth. We send the wax-up back to the lab, and they process it to create the final partial denture. When the partial is ready, you try it in, and we make any necessary adjustments here in the office.
Everything you ever wanted to know about dentures will be coming in the next few posts, part of our ongoing series postings. Today, an introduction to dentures and the most common - the partial denture. In the next post, overdentures will be discussed - followed by information about caring for your dentures and how they impact your oral care routine. As always, if you have any questions feel free to contact us at any time.
Conventional Partial Dentures
Removable appliances
When many teeth in your upper or lower arch are missing, a partial denture is a good treatment for replacing them. Conventional partial are removable appliances that are held in place by clasps that fir around some of the remaining teeth. With proper home care and regular adjustments and relines, your partial denture can provide a functional bite and a natural-looking smile.
Placing a partial denture
The process of making a partial denture varies in each case, and it usually involves a series of appointments. The first step is to shape the supporting teeth. Next, we take impressions of your mouth, including the prepared teeth. An accurate model of your mouth is made from these impressions, and the lab uses this model to create the denture framework. In some cases, a wax rim is mounted on the framework for you to try in. This helps confirm the correct relationship between the upper and lower teeth. After the try in, the lab creates a wax-up, which is a wax replica of the final denture. Depending on the circumstances, we may have you try in the wax up, and we note any changes to the fit and to the color shape and placement of the teeth. We send the wax-up back to the lab, and they process it to create the final partial denture. When the partial is ready, you try it in, and we make any necessary adjustments here in the office.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Diabetes and Your Health
Diabetes and periodontal disease
If you are diabetic, you are at a greater risk of suffering from oral infections and diseases, including periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is an infection of the teeth, gums, and bone that surrounds your teeth. It is caused by the bacteria that lives in plaque, the sticky film of food and bacteria that forms constantly on your teeth. The bacteria infect the tooth roots and cause pockets of infection to form in the gums. The bacteria also produces toxins, and these toxins, combined with your body’s reaction to them, destroy the bone around your teeth.
The connection to diabetes
Diabetes contributes to periodontal disease in three ways: it lowers your body’s ability to fight off infection, results in high blood sugar levels, and causes dry mouth. Diabetes lowers the body’s resistance to infection by causing blood vessels to thicken and become less elastic. This decreases the flow of white blood cells, oxygen, and nutrients to the body’s tissues and slows the removal of harmful wastes. This can weaken your mouth’s resistance to infections like periodontal disease. Having poorly controlled diabetes means that there are often excess levels of glucose in the blood and saliva. The harmful bacteria in your mouth that are responsible for periodontal disease thrive on this sugar. Diabetics who do not successfully control their blood sugar levels also frequently experiences a decrease in the flow of saliva which can lead to a condition called dry mouth, or xerostomia. Saliva is vital for helping wash away the bacteria that cause periodontal disease. A lack of saliva allows plaque to build up easily on teeth.
Preventing periodontal disease
If you are a diabetic, it is important for you to prevent or control periodontal disease. Infections, such as periodontal disease, can cause blood sugar levels to rise, making it much harder for you to control your diabetes. To help prevent bacterial infections in your mouth, you should brush and floss every day to remove the plaque and visit us regularly for dental cleanings. We may prescribe antibiotics, medicated mouth rinses, and more frequent dental exams. With good dental and medical care, your gums and teeth can remain health and free of periodontal disease.
If you are diabetic, you are at a greater risk of suffering from oral infections and diseases, including periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is an infection of the teeth, gums, and bone that surrounds your teeth. It is caused by the bacteria that lives in plaque, the sticky film of food and bacteria that forms constantly on your teeth. The bacteria infect the tooth roots and cause pockets of infection to form in the gums. The bacteria also produces toxins, and these toxins, combined with your body’s reaction to them, destroy the bone around your teeth.
The connection to diabetes
Diabetes contributes to periodontal disease in three ways: it lowers your body’s ability to fight off infection, results in high blood sugar levels, and causes dry mouth. Diabetes lowers the body’s resistance to infection by causing blood vessels to thicken and become less elastic. This decreases the flow of white blood cells, oxygen, and nutrients to the body’s tissues and slows the removal of harmful wastes. This can weaken your mouth’s resistance to infections like periodontal disease. Having poorly controlled diabetes means that there are often excess levels of glucose in the blood and saliva. The harmful bacteria in your mouth that are responsible for periodontal disease thrive on this sugar. Diabetics who do not successfully control their blood sugar levels also frequently experiences a decrease in the flow of saliva which can lead to a condition called dry mouth, or xerostomia. Saliva is vital for helping wash away the bacteria that cause periodontal disease. A lack of saliva allows plaque to build up easily on teeth.
Preventing periodontal disease
If you are a diabetic, it is important for you to prevent or control periodontal disease. Infections, such as periodontal disease, can cause blood sugar levels to rise, making it much harder for you to control your diabetes. To help prevent bacterial infections in your mouth, you should brush and floss every day to remove the plaque and visit us regularly for dental cleanings. We may prescribe antibiotics, medicated mouth rinses, and more frequent dental exams. With good dental and medical care, your gums and teeth can remain health and free of periodontal disease.
Cardiovascular Health
What is periodontal disease?
Researchers have discovered that if you have periodontal disease, you may have an increased risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, and infective endocarditis. Periodontal disease is an infection of the teeth, gums and bone that live in plaque, the sticky film of food and bacteria that forms constantly on your teeth. The bacteria infect the tooth roots and cause pockets of infection to form in the gums. This results in red and swollen gums that bleed when you brush or floss.
The connection to cardiovascular health
Even with early periodontal disease, bleeding gums can create an open doorway that allows harmful bacteria to enter your bloodstream. More advanced periodontal disease can be even worse. It can be compared to a nine-square-inch open wound around your teeth, offering significant opportunity for harmful bacteria to enter your blood. Research indicates that the bacteria associated with periodontal disease may cause inflammation in the arteries. This inflammation could lead to the build-up of fatty deposits and the formation of blood clots that can block your arteries and even trigger a heart attack. These deposits may also build up in the carotid arteries in your neck. In serious cases, if these fat deposits break apart and are carried away in your bloodstream, they can lodge in your brain, block a blood vessel, and cause a stroke. Additionally, some studies have also shown that when plaque bacteria enter the bloodstream through infected gums, you may develop a heart condition called infective endocarditis. This is a potentially fatal bacterial infection that inflames the sac around the heart, the valves of the heart, and the heart muscle itself.
So, as you can see, it is vital to your overall health, as well as your oral health, to keep your gums healthy. If we determine that you have periodontal disease, we will see you for frequent professional cleanings and re-care appointments, and we will work with you to create a suitable oral hygiene.
Researchers have discovered that if you have periodontal disease, you may have an increased risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, and infective endocarditis. Periodontal disease is an infection of the teeth, gums and bone that live in plaque, the sticky film of food and bacteria that forms constantly on your teeth. The bacteria infect the tooth roots and cause pockets of infection to form in the gums. This results in red and swollen gums that bleed when you brush or floss.
The connection to cardiovascular health
Even with early periodontal disease, bleeding gums can create an open doorway that allows harmful bacteria to enter your bloodstream. More advanced periodontal disease can be even worse. It can be compared to a nine-square-inch open wound around your teeth, offering significant opportunity for harmful bacteria to enter your blood. Research indicates that the bacteria associated with periodontal disease may cause inflammation in the arteries. This inflammation could lead to the build-up of fatty deposits and the formation of blood clots that can block your arteries and even trigger a heart attack. These deposits may also build up in the carotid arteries in your neck. In serious cases, if these fat deposits break apart and are carried away in your bloodstream, they can lodge in your brain, block a blood vessel, and cause a stroke. Additionally, some studies have also shown that when plaque bacteria enter the bloodstream through infected gums, you may develop a heart condition called infective endocarditis. This is a potentially fatal bacterial infection that inflames the sac around the heart, the valves of the heart, and the heart muscle itself.
So, as you can see, it is vital to your overall health, as well as your oral health, to keep your gums healthy. If we determine that you have periodontal disease, we will see you for frequent professional cleanings and re-care appointments, and we will work with you to create a suitable oral hygiene.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Arestin
How is Arestin used?
As part of our therapy for periodontal disease, we have an effective treatment called Arestin that helps us control the infection in your mouth. Arestin is used together with scaling and root planing to significantly reduce the depth of the infected pockets and prevent the progression of the disease. Arestin in an antibiotic in powder form. After scaling and root planing, we apply the powder to your periodontal pockets, where it combines with moisture in your mouth and adheres immediately to the infected gum tissue. The individual powder particles release a controlled, steady flow of the active ingredient, minocycline, a potent antibiotic. The medication helps fight your periodontal infection for at least 21 days.
Arestin and your periodontal therapy
In certain conditions, Arestin may not be the right treatment for you. The active ingredient in Arestin is in the tetracycline family, so we won’t use it for patients who are allergic to tetracycline, pregnant or nursing, or under the age of eight. You should also know that Arestin is not a cure for periodontal disease. Once bone is lost, no medication will bring it back. For periodontal therapy to be successful, you still need to be very thorough with your daily oral hygiene and come see us regularly for exams. Arestin is an important part of the overall periodontal therapy program that we have designed for you to restore health to your gums.
As part of our therapy for periodontal disease, we have an effective treatment called Arestin that helps us control the infection in your mouth. Arestin is used together with scaling and root planing to significantly reduce the depth of the infected pockets and prevent the progression of the disease. Arestin in an antibiotic in powder form. After scaling and root planing, we apply the powder to your periodontal pockets, where it combines with moisture in your mouth and adheres immediately to the infected gum tissue. The individual powder particles release a controlled, steady flow of the active ingredient, minocycline, a potent antibiotic. The medication helps fight your periodontal infection for at least 21 days.
Arestin and your periodontal therapy
In certain conditions, Arestin may not be the right treatment for you. The active ingredient in Arestin is in the tetracycline family, so we won’t use it for patients who are allergic to tetracycline, pregnant or nursing, or under the age of eight. You should also know that Arestin is not a cure for periodontal disease. Once bone is lost, no medication will bring it back. For periodontal therapy to be successful, you still need to be very thorough with your daily oral hygiene and come see us regularly for exams. Arestin is an important part of the overall periodontal therapy program that we have designed for you to restore health to your gums.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
What If? Wednesdays
If you think you have a soft spot in a tooth, or an area that is sensitive to hot/cold or sweet foods - you may have a cavity. Only your dentist can make this diagnosis, but follow the guide below to help you determine if your increased pain and sensitivity are the result of a cavity or something else.
What are cavities?
Plaque, a sticky film of food and bacteria that is constantly forming on your teeth, is the culprit when it comes to tooth decay. Bacteria that naturally exist in plaque break down the starches and sugars in the food you eat. A chemical reaction occurs, and as a result, an acid is produced. Like all acids , the acid produced in your mouth is corrosive, which means that it dissolves other materials. Your teeth are the victims of this corrosive action. The acid dissolves their protective outer enamel layer, eventually creating holes in your teeth, also known as cavities.
Regular checkups are a must
Cavities first form in the hard, protective enamel layer of your teeth. Beneath the enamel is a softer layer called dentin. If a cavity wears through the enamel and reached the dentin, it can grow much more quickly and threaten the inner layer of the tooth, containing its nerves and blood vessels. This part of your tooth is called the pulp chamber.
If the decay is allowed to penetrate the enamel and dentin gets into the pulp chamber, it’s likely that we’ll need to perform root canal treatment. That’s why regular checkups and professional cleanings are so important. They allow us to restore your tooth while the cavity is still small and confined to the outer enamel layer.
Diagnosing cavities
Sometimes, we can detect cavities just by looking at your teeth, but to find cavities in their early stages when they are very small, we use a dental explorer and x-rays. A dental explorer finds cavities on the surfaces of your teeth, and the explorer catches or sticks in the tiny pits created by cavities. X-rays locate cavities between teeth where the explorer can’t reach.
Repairing and preventing cavities
To repair a tooth with a cavity, we usually remove the decayed portion of the tooth and replace it with a filling, provided the damage is not extensive and there is still plenty of healthy tooth structure remaining. However, preventing tooth decay in the first place is the preferred solution. We’ll be happy to work with you, so you’ll learn to keep your teeth free of plaque and decay.
What are cavities?
Plaque, a sticky film of food and bacteria that is constantly forming on your teeth, is the culprit when it comes to tooth decay. Bacteria that naturally exist in plaque break down the starches and sugars in the food you eat. A chemical reaction occurs, and as a result, an acid is produced. Like all acids , the acid produced in your mouth is corrosive, which means that it dissolves other materials. Your teeth are the victims of this corrosive action. The acid dissolves their protective outer enamel layer, eventually creating holes in your teeth, also known as cavities.
Regular checkups are a must
Cavities first form in the hard, protective enamel layer of your teeth. Beneath the enamel is a softer layer called dentin. If a cavity wears through the enamel and reached the dentin, it can grow much more quickly and threaten the inner layer of the tooth, containing its nerves and blood vessels. This part of your tooth is called the pulp chamber.
If the decay is allowed to penetrate the enamel and dentin gets into the pulp chamber, it’s likely that we’ll need to perform root canal treatment. That’s why regular checkups and professional cleanings are so important. They allow us to restore your tooth while the cavity is still small and confined to the outer enamel layer.
Diagnosing cavities
Sometimes, we can detect cavities just by looking at your teeth, but to find cavities in their early stages when they are very small, we use a dental explorer and x-rays. A dental explorer finds cavities on the surfaces of your teeth, and the explorer catches or sticks in the tiny pits created by cavities. X-rays locate cavities between teeth where the explorer can’t reach.
Repairing and preventing cavities
To repair a tooth with a cavity, we usually remove the decayed portion of the tooth and replace it with a filling, provided the damage is not extensive and there is still plenty of healthy tooth structure remaining. However, preventing tooth decay in the first place is the preferred solution. We’ll be happy to work with you, so you’ll learn to keep your teeth free of plaque and decay.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
How Teeth Decay
As part of our ongoing commitment to you and your oral health, we want to keep you as informed as possible about your mouth. One of the biggest keys to successful oral health is building a knowledge and understanding of how your mouth works. While we can tell you to brush and floss daily, avoid sugary drinks, etc., until you as a patient understand the why our efforts will not be as beneficial as they could be.
The following information is meant to help you prevent tooth decay and keep your natural teeth for a lifetime. That’s why we want you to understand the process of tooth decay, from start to finish. Armed with this knowledge, you can take steps to stop tooth decay in its tracks.
Bacteria and sugar are the culprits
Thousands of bacteria exist in everyone’s mouth. Most of these bacteria are beneficial. But there are two types of bacteria, mutans streptococcus and lactobacillus, that are the primary culprits in the tooth decay process. If you’re not brushing and flossing regularly, or if your oral environment is out of its natural balance, these bacteria reproduce quickly in your mouth, establishing huge colonies whenever they are given the opportunity to feast on foods that contain sugar.
Sugars, which are the building blocks of starchy foods like pasta, crackers, bread and sweets, can build up on your teeth if you don’t brush regularly. This sugar buildup is one component of plaque, a sticky film of saliva, food debris, and bacteria that’s constantly forming on your teeth. If it’s not removed, plaque mineralizes and can turn into rock-hard tartar in as little as 24 hours.
To survive and multiply in your mouth, the decay-causing bacteria feed off of the simple sugars that are produced from the starches you eat. This causes a chemical reaction in which the sugars ar broken down into simpler elements. One of these elements is an acid. As you probably know, acid breaks down many things, including your tooth enamel. Every time you eat a starchy food, your teeth are bathed in this acid for 20 minutes or more.
The process of decay
The acid slowly dissolves the hard, protective enamel layer on your teeth, forming a demineralized area that appears as a white or brown spot on your tooth. That spot is the first visible sign of tooth decay. If the area does not remineralize, it will progress until a hole, also known as a cavity, develops on the surface of your tooth. It’s vital that we treat your tooth decay early, before it can penetrate the surface of your tooth. Once a cavity has entered the softer dentin layer of your teeth, it can grow more quickly and may lead to a much more complicated and expensive set of problems.
How to avoid decay
You can cut down the frequency of acid production in your mouth by limiting the number of times you eat each day. Also, when you brush and floss properly and regularyly, there’s verylittle plaque on your teeth. Consequently, the number of decay-causing bacteria on the surfaces of your teeth will be dramatically reduced, and in turn, they won’t be producing the enamel-destroying acid. You should also use toothpaste that contains fluoride, which will strengthen your tooth enamel so it’s more resistant to decay. And what about the times when you can’t brush? You’ll need to use other methods, like rinsing with water or a fluoride mouth rinse or chewing sugarless gum, to minimize the acid attacks and protect your teeth.
The following information is meant to help you prevent tooth decay and keep your natural teeth for a lifetime. That’s why we want you to understand the process of tooth decay, from start to finish. Armed with this knowledge, you can take steps to stop tooth decay in its tracks.
Bacteria and sugar are the culprits
Thousands of bacteria exist in everyone’s mouth. Most of these bacteria are beneficial. But there are two types of bacteria, mutans streptococcus and lactobacillus, that are the primary culprits in the tooth decay process. If you’re not brushing and flossing regularly, or if your oral environment is out of its natural balance, these bacteria reproduce quickly in your mouth, establishing huge colonies whenever they are given the opportunity to feast on foods that contain sugar.
Sugars, which are the building blocks of starchy foods like pasta, crackers, bread and sweets, can build up on your teeth if you don’t brush regularly. This sugar buildup is one component of plaque, a sticky film of saliva, food debris, and bacteria that’s constantly forming on your teeth. If it’s not removed, plaque mineralizes and can turn into rock-hard tartar in as little as 24 hours.
To survive and multiply in your mouth, the decay-causing bacteria feed off of the simple sugars that are produced from the starches you eat. This causes a chemical reaction in which the sugars ar broken down into simpler elements. One of these elements is an acid. As you probably know, acid breaks down many things, including your tooth enamel. Every time you eat a starchy food, your teeth are bathed in this acid for 20 minutes or more.
The process of decay
The acid slowly dissolves the hard, protective enamel layer on your teeth, forming a demineralized area that appears as a white or brown spot on your tooth. That spot is the first visible sign of tooth decay. If the area does not remineralize, it will progress until a hole, also known as a cavity, develops on the surface of your tooth. It’s vital that we treat your tooth decay early, before it can penetrate the surface of your tooth. Once a cavity has entered the softer dentin layer of your teeth, it can grow more quickly and may lead to a much more complicated and expensive set of problems.
How to avoid decay
You can cut down the frequency of acid production in your mouth by limiting the number of times you eat each day. Also, when you brush and floss properly and regularyly, there’s verylittle plaque on your teeth. Consequently, the number of decay-causing bacteria on the surfaces of your teeth will be dramatically reduced, and in turn, they won’t be producing the enamel-destroying acid. You should also use toothpaste that contains fluoride, which will strengthen your tooth enamel so it’s more resistant to decay. And what about the times when you can’t brush? You’ll need to use other methods, like rinsing with water or a fluoride mouth rinse or chewing sugarless gum, to minimize the acid attacks and protect your teeth.
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