Dental Care for Seniors

Dental Care Program for Children and Adults with Autism

 

How To Keep Your Toothbrush Clean and Safe

How To Keep Your Toothbrush Clean And Safe

 

Because one of the main purposes of a toothbrush is to remove bacteria from your mouth, it’s important to keep your toothbrush sanitary and free of bacteria.

Keep these tips in mind to keep your toothbrush clean and safe:

 

Keep it covered on the road, but not at home. When you travel, put your toothbrush in a travel toothbrush holder-don’t let it roll around uncovered in your suitcase or toiletry bag where it can pick up dust, dirt, and bacteria. But don’t store a toothbrush in a toothbrush holder at home-the chronically moist environment can promote bacteria growth. If you must use a covered toothbrush holder frequently, look for one with small holes to let air in. When at home, store your toothbrush upright in a cup or a toothbrush holder that allows it to air dry and has several openings to keep multiple toothbrushes separate.

 

Consider a sanitizer. There are commercially available "toothbrush sanitizers," but there’s no solid evidence to suggest that they actually keep toothbrushes cleaner than simply rinsing them with water after use and allowing them to dry. If you want to try a sanitizer, look for one that has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for "reducing bacterial contamination that occurs naturally on toothbrushes." Be suspicious of sanitizing products that make unrealistic claims. And never try to clean your toothbrush by putting it in the dishwasher or microwave; the high temperatures can damage the brush.

What is a Dental Hygenist?

What Is a Dental Hygienist? Dental hygienists are licensed oral health professionals who focus on preventing and treating oral diseases-both to protect teeth and gums, and also to protect patients' total health. They are graduates of accredited dental hygiene education programs in colleges and universities, and must take a written national board examination and a clinical examination before they are licensed to practice. In addition to treating patients directly, dental hygienists may also work as educators, researchers, and administrators. What Do Dental Hygienists Do?

Each state has its own specific regulations and the range of services performed by dental hygienists varies from one state to another. As part of dental hygiene services, dental hygienists may:

• perform oral health care assessments that include the review of patients' health history, dental charting, oral cancer screening, and evaluation of gum disease / health;
• expose, process, and interpret dental radiographs (x-rays);
• remove plaque and calculus (“tartar”) from above and below the gumline using dental instruments;
• apply cavity-preventive agents such as fluorides and sealants to the teeth;
• administer local anesthetic and / or nitrous oxide analgesia;
• educate patients on proper oral hygiene techniques to maintain healthy teeth and gums;
• counsel patients about plaque control and developing individualized at-home oral hygiene programs;
• administer smoking cessation programs; and
• counsel patients on the importance of good nutrition for maintaining optimal oral health. 

Where Do Dental Hygienists Work?

Clinical dental hygienists may work in a variety of health care settings such as private dental offices, schools, public health clinics, hospitals, managed care organizations, correctional institutions, nursing homes or in a corporate environment. In addition to the clinical role, dental hygienists may also work in an administrative capacity in any of the above locations.

 

What Does the "RDH" Designation Mean?
The "RDH" means Registered Dental Hygienist. The RDH credential identifies a dental hygienist as a licensed oral health professional. State licensure requirements typically indicate that a dental hygienist must graduate from an accredited dental hygiene education program, successfully pass a national written examination and a state or regional clinical exam. (In Indiana, the designation LDH [Licensed Dental Hygienist] is used instead of RDH.)

First Trip to the Dentist

By 2 1/2 most children have cut all of their baby teeth, so toddlerhood is a great time to instill good dental habits. "Baby teeth are important because they hold space for permanent teeth," says Judy Ann Taylor, D.D.S., a pediatric dentist in Brooklyn. Decay in baby teeth also increases the risk of decay in permanent teeth.

Although dentists now recommend that kids see a dentist for the first time by their first birthday, twice-yearly dental checkups and proper care at home are the keys to ensuring pearly whites throughout childhood. For toddlers, however, the first dental visit can be a scary proposition. Strange instruments, loud noises, and new faces can upset even the most nonchalant 2-year-old. But with careful preparation (and plenty of prizes), a first trip to the dentist can actually be fun.

 

Before You Go

 

Your first impulse may be to take your child to your own dentist, but this is not a good idea, unless a sizable part of her practice is children. She can probably recommend a kid-friendly dentist, however. (Friends with children are another good source of recommendations.) Or call the American Dental Association (312-440-2617; www.ada.org) or the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (312-337-2169; www.aapd.org) for an accredited pediatric dentist in your area. Then make an appointment to tour the office with your child. Observe how the staff handles children, and make sure you're comfortable with all procedures. "Parents should be in the examining room with the child," says Judy Ann Taylor, D.D.S., "and a dentist should stop working if a child gets upset or nervous." Watch out for cleanliness: Dental tools should be wrapped in plastic, the staff should wear protective gloves and masks, and patients should wear protective glasses.

 

Provide the dentist with a list of any medical conditions your child has or medications he takes. Keep your pediatrician's phone number handy, too, in case the dentist needs additional health information.

 

If your child has a sucking habit, be it thumb, pacifier, or bottle, let the dentist know, as it may affect your child's teeth and jaw. Also, be aware that sleeping with a bottle of milk or juice can cause tooth decay. "During sleep, liquids in the mouth -- which are full of sugar and bacteria -- pool around the teeth and erode them," says Dr. Taylor.

 

Talk to your child about what's going to happen. Practice brushing with your child beforehand, too, so she will be used to having a toothbrush in her mouth.

 

What to Expect

1. Meeting and Greeting

 "To make sure your child feels comfortable, formally introduce him to the dentist on his first visit," says Judy Ann Taylor, D.D.S. A good children's dentist will explain each step of the checkup with your child, show him the tools she'll be using, and assure him that he can sit on Mommy's or Daddy's lap and stop any procedure if he's nervous.

 

2. Learning the Facts

Using models, an oversize brush, and "cavity creep" finger puppets, the dentist will show your child how to brush with your help. "A dentist may also explain how the cavity creeps come out at night to harm teeth and how eating nutritious meals and drinking plenty of water keeps teeth healthy," says Dr. Taylor. She'll also use this time to address your questions and concerns.

 

3. Mastering the Machinery

Because the spitting cup may make some scary sucking noises, the dentist will show your child how it works and how to spit into it properly. Then she'll put on a mask and gloves to count your child's teeth, using the model -- or you -- to demonstrate before putting her fingers in his mouth.

 

4. Cleaning and Polishing

Next, the dentist will polish your child's teeth with a rotary toothbrush. "Make sure the staff provides him with goggles or sunglasses to protect his eyes in case a tool slips or toothpaste sprays," says Dr. Taylor. Letting the child see and hear the brush before it's placed in his mouth helps put him at ease.

 

5. Finishing Touches

As with the other procedures she performs, the dentist will show your child how the sucking straw works before she uses it to remove extra toothpaste and saliva. As a final step, the dentist may apply a coat of topical fluoride. "I always ask the parent if it's okay to use fluoride," says Dr. Taylor, "but the research shows that periodic fluoride treatments prevent decay." A child should not eat or drink for 30 minutes after a treatment.

 

6. Picking a Prize

Stickers, finger puppets, crayons, key chains -- the more varied the grab bag, the better. "Prizes are a wonderful way to get kids to think the dentist's office is a fun place," says Dr. Taylor. You may want to let your child pick a prize during the cleaning if he seems nervous. But if he gets genuinely upset, "he may not be ready for his first visit," says Dr. Taylor. "In that case, cut it short and try again in a few months."

Toothache Remedies

Toothache remedies are only short term solutions until you can see the dentist. Never delay seeing a dental professional to obtain an accurate diagnosis and treatment options. Remember the pain can go and things can become much worse without you realising until it is too late.

 

Cavities: dip a cotton pellet into clove oil (from the local pharmacy) and place this in the cavity. This contains a dental analgesic called eugenol.

 

Sharp teeth where fillings have fallen out: buy a temporary filling from the local pharmacy. Before you place it in the tooth, make sure the tooth is cleaned then dried so the filling sticks to the tooth.

 

Gum pain can be helped with good brushing technique even if it is painful. If this does not work then consider some topical anaesthetic from the pharmacy. Rub this onto the dried gums with cotton wool.

 

Jaw pain: If the jaw joints hurt, place ice cold substances next to it. If the muscles hurt, place warm substances next to it. Obviously do not burn or freeze the skin.

 

Visit a dentist as soon as possible to investigate the cause of any problems you may be having. We welcome you to inform us of any other toothache remedies which have not been mentioned.

The Three "F's" of Good Dental Care

Many people have heard that children no longer have cavities. It is true; many children do not have cavities, but 50% still do. In fact, 80% of the cavities nationwide are found in 20% of children. In many children, the first cavities occur at about 6 years of age when the first permanent molars erupt and the spaces close between the back teeth. Suddenly, the teeth contact, food collects, flossing is not done, and cavities start.

 

We have found cavities on your child?s teeth. These cavities are either in the grooves on the biting surfaces or in between teeth as noted on the cavity decaying x-rays. The tendency to develop this type of cavity can be a life long problem. There are numerous factors that contribute to the development of cavities.

 

Many of these factors are out of control; for example, the makeup of your child?s saliva, the shape of their teeth, and the type of cavity producing bacteria in their mouth. However, a number of contributing factors can be controlled. These include the amount of plaque buildup on the teeth, the types of food that are consumed, and exposure to fluorides. In order to minimize or prevent these cavities from continuing to develop, we recommend the following; the 3 F?s:

 

1) Flossing - this should be performed EVERY NIGHT after brushing. Most children are unable to perform this adequately without your assistance. Floss aids such as Johnson & Johnson?s Wild Flossers, Oral B Floss Aid, Butler Flossmate, or the Glide Flosspick make it fun and easy to perform.

 

2) Fluoride - rinse with a topical fluoride rinse such as ACT or Fluorigard or brush on a prescription high-potency fluoride gel after nighttime brushing and flossing. Also, apply fluoride containing sealants on the surfaces of the permanent molars.

 

3) Foods- avoid in between meal snacks that have high sugar content and are sticky. Many snacks that are thought to be ?healthy? such as raisins, Fruit Roll-ups, Fruit by the Foot, Fruit Gushers, Fun Fruits, etc. are actually candy due to their tackiness and high sugar content. Of course, candies such as Skittles, Starbursts, Gummy Bears, Gummy Worms, and Blow Pops are extremely sticky and can result in dental decay. The use of prepackaged juices as between meal drinks also exposes your child to the risk of cavities. Remember, the frequency of consuming foods, especially sugary ones, can be as important in producing cavities as the sugar content of the food. Keep snacking to a minimum and offer your child healthy snacks such as fruits and vegetables.

 

Having regular 6-month check ups and periodic bitewing x-rays will help to prevent and detect these problems in the future, but remember prevention starts at home!

Do You Really Need to Visit Your Dentist Every 6 Months?

Have you ever wondered why the American Dental Association and your dentist recommend you come back every six months? It’s because regular dental visits are essential for the maintenance of healthy teeth and gums. And in between those examinations, it’s important that you work to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. If you need additional help, your dentist may even suggest more frequent visits.

What Goes On During A Regular Visit

Checking your teeth for tooth decay is just one part of a thorough dental examination. During your checkup appointment, your dentist (or dental hygienist) will likely evaluate the health of your gums, perform a head and neck examination (to look for anything out of the ordinary) and examine your mouth for any indications of oral cancer, diabetes or vitamin deficiencies. Don’t be surprised if your dentist also examines your face, bite, saliva and movement of your lower jaw joints (TMJs). Your dentist or dental hygienist will then clean your teeth and stress the importance of you maintaining good oral hygiene at home between visits.

Many dentists will pay special attention to plaque and tartar. This is because plaque and tartar can build up in a very short time if good oral hygiene is not practiced between visits. Food, beverages and tobacco can stain teeth as well. If not removed, soft plaque can harden on the teeth and irritate the gum tissue. If not treated, plaque can lead to gum disease.

During your regularly scheduled dental appointments, your dentist will likely look at your gums, mouth, tongue and throat. There are several routine parts to a dental examination.

The Head And Neck Examination

Your dentist will start off by:

• Examining your face
• Examining your neck
• Checking your lymph nodes
• Checking your lower jaw joints (TMJs)

The Clinical Dental Examination

Next, your dentist assesses the state of your teeth and gums by:

• Examining the gums
• Looking for signs of gum disease
• Checking for loose teeth
• Looking at the tissues inside of your mouth
• Examining your tongue
• Checking your bite
• Looking for visual evidence of tooth decay
• Checking for broken teeth
• Checking for damaged fillings
• Looking for changes in the gums covering teeth
• Evaluating any dental appliance you have
• Checking the contact between your teeth
• Taking X-rays

The Dental Cleaning

During the final part of the dental visit, your dental professional cleans your mouth using these methods:

• Checking the cleanliness of your teeth and gums
• Removing any plaque and tartar
• Polishing your teeth
• Flossing between your teeth
• Reviewing recommended brushing and flossing techniques

Once your examination and cleaning have been performed, they’ll tell you about the health of your teeth and gums and then make any additional recommendations. It’s important that you see your dentist every six months and that they give you routine examination and cleaning. Remember, by seeing your dentist on a regular basis and following daily good oral hygiene practices at home, you are more likely to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Wisdom Tooth Removal - What is Involved?

Are your back molars painful? Are you wondering why your wisdom teeth never grew in? Is the back of your mouth getting crowded? If you have experienced any of these, you may want to ask your dentist to take a second look at your wisdom teeth.

 

Wisdom teeth are your final set of molars, usually not appearing until your late teens or early 20s. When they grow in properly, they can improve the efficiency of your chewing and are an asset to your mouth. More often than not, however, these teeth are misaligned and must be removed, which could be an expensive procedure if you do not have dental insurance. Sometimes the wisdom teeth can even be stuck deep in the jaw bone, or even simply remain below the gum, and will never grow in. Wisdom teeth that will not grow in are “impacted.”

Your dentist will visually examine the area as well as take X-rays to assess the situation under the gum line. This helps determine if and how the wisdom molars need to be extracted. Dentists recommend extracting them by age 18 if they look like they could be problematic. Patients aged 35 and up have a greater risk of complications from the procedure, because the impacted teeth fuse to the jaw bone as people age. An extraction may be necessary if it looks like the wisdom teeth might interrupt normal sinus functionality or cause the other teeth to shift. Third molars that never emerge from the gum can be painful as well.

 

If one or more of your wisdom teeth must be taken out, the procedure can vary from a simple extraction to full surgery under anesthesia. The type of procedure typically depends on the position of each wisdom tooth. 

 

• If the tooth is fully visible and completely erupted through your gum, a general dentist can quickly and easily remove it without surgery.

• If the tooth is impacted under your gum or embedded in your jaw bone, it will require more complicated intervention. An oral surgeon or dentist will make an incision in the gum, and any bone covering your tooth will be removed. The impacted tooth is then taken out, often in small sections to minimize the amount of overlying bone that must be sacrificed. This complex procedure often requires an oral surgeon.

 

Most dental insurance will help lower the cost of your wisdom teeth extraction if you have met your deductible. You you have reached your maximum, or if you have no dental insurance, a discount dental plan could lower the cost even more. 

 

One other cost-saving tip: Follow your dentist’s instructions! Recovery from a usually takes no more than a few days to a week, but if you ignore the dentist’s directions for how to take care of the area, you could face additional problems. Dry socket, for example, is a painful situation where the blood clot comes out instead of closing the wound where the tooth originally was. This occasionally happens completely on accident, but more often than not, it occurs when the patient fails to clean the area or doesn’t eat soft food. If you want to avoid expensive complications, listen to your dentist or oral surgeon.

Cavity Protection Begins with Baby Teeth

For hundreds of years the tooth fairy has traded gifts for baby teeth left under pillows while children sleep. Unfortunately, the tooth fairy does not take bacteria or infection that the cavity may have left behind. The American Academy of Pediatrics reports that one out of 10 2-year-olds are already infected with at least one cavity.

 

From the time a child is born, plaque can build up on the gums. Plaque is formed from the combination of acid, saliva and bacteria present in the mouth. While a baby’s teeth are not yet visible, an environment of bacteria sets the stage for poor oral health once the teeth begin to grow in. Children are born with their teeth developed below the gum line and, according to the American Dental Association, decay can begin as soon as a tooth appears.Unlike adults, a child gets a “second chance” with his teeth, but just because children’s primary teeth fall out and are replaced does not mean that care for the first set should be neglected.

 

Cavities lead to tooth decay and even tooth loss, as a result of bacteria left in the mouth. They are also contagious; meaning that a cavity in a primary tooth can easy spread to a neighboring permanent tooth. An infection in the root of a primary tooth may spread to the upcoming permanent tooth. Even more serious, premature tooth loss can cause long term problems for a child’s oral health.

 

Establishing good habits with children at a young age is crucial for ensuring future oral hygiene. It is encouraged for persons of all ages to brush and floss twice a day. Kids need to understand that brushing and flossing is not a “chore,” but a chance to protect their teeth and overall health.

 

The biggest enemies of tooth-brushing for kids are sugary snacks. Packed with sugars that promote plaque and tooth decay, their consumption counteracts the efforts of tooth-brushing. Forming the habit of brushing is also a challenge because kids may become frustrated for many reasons. Brushing can feel like a chore, especially when they’re being forced to do it twice a day. If a child doesn’t like the taste of his toothpaste he certainly won’t be eager to brush, especially if he is using too much. For a kid-sized mouth, only a drop of toothpaste the size of a pea is needed. Too much will result in excess froth, and a mess all over the bathroom counter.

 

Most kids don’t get excited to brush their teeth, and parents can have a hard time obtaining cooperation. Kids will be kids, so make brushing fun! Try turning the task into a game or using a reward system to generate excitement. Let kids pick out their own toothbrush at the store so that they feel some ownership with their own brush. Also choose “kid-friendly” toothpaste. Many types of toothpaste that adults use may be too spicy for little taste buds, so choose bubblegum or another flavored kid’s paste. 

Are Dental X-Rays Safe?

Dental  X-rays have been in the news recently. You may have heard a report raising some concerns regarding their use, which may have you wondering how safe are they?

 

The answer is, very safe.  It is important to remember that the level of radiation exposure today in x-rays is considerably lower than in the past.  With the increasing use of digital X-rays over film, the level of exposure is dropping every year.  According to a report by the Canadian Dental Association the level of radiation exposure during an x-ray is comparable to the amount you are exposed to in a transatlantic flight.

 

X-rays are an important part of early detection and treatment of oral diseases since often it is difficult to diagnosis from visual examination alone.  If you have questions or concerns regarding x-rays feel free to ask us. 

How To Deal with a Dental Emergency

Like cavities and gum disease, many dental problems develop gradually after months (or years!) of dental-health neglect. But sometimes, pain or tooth sensitivity can come on suddenly, and you may need immediate dental care, either at the emergency room or from your dentist.

It's not always easy to know whether a tooth, gum, or mouth problem requires emergency care — or what to do about it. In fact, most Americans are unprepared to handle a dental health emergency, according to a survey of 1,000 participants.

Think your mouth issue is a dental health 911? Here’s a handy guide to situations that are generally considered dental emergencies:

• Lip or tongue bite with excessive bleeding. If you accidentally bite your lip, tongue, or other soft tissue in your mouth, clean the area and apply a cold compress to decrease swelling. If the bleeding is severe, or will not stop, go to the emergency room.
• Broken or cracked tooth. In the case of a broken or cracked tooth, call your dentist immediately. Until you can get to your dentist's office, rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress outside the affected area.
• Damaged braces. If your braces become damaged, call your orthodontist right away. Some instances of damaged braces need to be fixed immediately; others can wait until your next appointment.
• Injury to your jaw. If you suspect you may have broken your jaw, apply a cold compress to the area and immediately go to your dentist's office or to the emergency room.
• Loose tooth. If one of your teeth is partially dislodged, see your dentist right away — they may be able to save the tooth. Until you can get to your dentist's office, take an over-the-counter pain reliever and apply a cold compress to the affected area to relieve pain.
• Tooth that has been knocked out. Grasp your lost tooth by the crown and rinse its root if it is dirty, avoiding scrubbing the tooth or removing pieces of tissue that may be attached. You can attempt to reinsert the tooth into its socket in your mouth, but if that doesn't work, you'll need to see your dentist quickly. The American Dental Association recommends placing the tooth in milk, which acts as a preservative until you can get to a professional.
• Lost filling or crown. When one of your fillings or crowns falls out, put the filling or crown in a safe place and call your dentist to make an appointment. Applying clove oil to the sensitive areas in your mouth and dental cement from the drug store on your tooth's surface can help decrease sensitivity, but check with your dentist before doing these things.
• Object lodged between your teeth. If something gets stuck between your teeth, try to gently remove it with dental floss. If the object still won't come out, call your dentist. Depending on the situation, he or she may want to see you quickly.
• Painful swelling. Call your dentist to schedule an appointment if you have painful swelling in your mouth, as you may have an abscess, an infected pocket of pus that can lead to a serious systemic infection. Until you can see your dentist, try rinsing your mouth with saltwater to relieve the pain and pressure.
• Pericoronitis. This is an infection that occurs when your wisdom teeth don't come into your mouth properly. If you experience symptoms of pericoronitis, which may include swollen and irritated gums, a bad taste in your mouth, or bad breath, or you are not able to fully open your mouth, see you dentist as soon as you can.
• Sudden or severe toothache. If your tooth is aching, rinse out your mouth with warm water and gently floss around the tooth to make sure there is nothing lodged between your teeth. Call your dentist if your toothache does not go away.

Some dental emergencies can lead to life-threatening infections or permanent damage if not treated rapidly, so if you're in doubt, always call your dentist. The earlier you seek treatment for a dental problem, the better your chances are for a full recovery and continued dental health. 

The Gag Reflux

The gag reflex, located on the back wall of the throat, helps keep objects from going down your windpipe. If you have ever put your fingers too far back in your mouth and felt like gagging or throwing up, you've discovered the gag reflex. Some people have a very sensitive gag reflex. This makes going to the dentist very difficult.

If you are one of these people, talk with your dentist about your concerns. Sometimes, a new dentist or hygienist may place instruments in a sensitive spot, touching the soft palate (the entrance to your throat). If you warn the dentist or hygienist ahead of time, they should be able to avoid certain sensitive areas.

It's also possible that something you are doing makes the problem worse. For example, some patients draw their tongue back to give the dentist room to work, but they end up gagging themselves. You and your dentist or hygienist can work together to find ways to avoid gagging movements.

Distraction may also work. Patients who are highly concerned about gagging become tense in the chair. This can make you even more sensitive. Bring a portable music device and listen to music, practice meditation or focus on trying to keep your feet elevated one inch off the chair. These kinds of distractions can help keep your mind off your throat.

Can Stess Affect Your Dental Health

You already know that stress affects your smile. It ceases to be genuine and warm when you are stressed. But did you know that stress affects your dental health? What stress does not affect, you would ask. True, it is an all-pervasive problem. And it can trigger many more – psychological, physical, social. We will restrict our discussion to stress and dental health. Let’s look at the connection closely.

People who are stressed ignore a lot of important things including oral care. This makes the mouth susceptible to various dental problems and gum diseases. Some start smoking or drinking more in order to ‘de-stress’ themselves. This increases the chances of being affected by gum diseases and other dental problems.

Some people start grinding their teeth when stressed. This habit causes their teeth to chip or break.

If stress prolongs for too long, it makes it difficult for the body to fight infections, making you prone to the gum diseases – gingivitis and periodontitis.

Stress is directly responsible for conditions like dry mouth, canker sores, burning mouth, temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ), and myofacial pain dysfunction (MPD).

Some anti-depressants and stress-relieving medicine can cause dental problems such as dry mouth. Also, one of the side effects of such medication is vomiting which can cause erosion of the teeth enamel.

Don’t stop paying attention to yourself because you are stressed about something. Don’t miss your appointments with the dentist. Maintaining a smile will not only help reduce your stress but also brighten others’ days.

Keep smiling!

Is There a Correlation Between Periodontitis, Cancer, and General Health?

Yes, there is!

 

Our immune system continuously produces substances (charged proteins called defensins) whose job it is to fight against bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

 

The immune cells release these defensins into bodily fluids, where the “defensin cocktail” protects the body from assailants such as bacteria, fungi, and/or viruses.

 

Defensins are about as old as insects, so they form an old component of our immune system; this means that they can be found throughout the entire animal kingdom. The immune cells release these proteins in high concentrations, for example, to the eye fluid, the saliva, and the lung and vaginal mucus. These proteins can be found wherever our body has to fight intruders!

 

The development of defensins only functions well in a healthy body. A healthy body is understood as balanced interaction among our organs. Thus, for example, the non-microbial digestion of food takes place in the small intestine, which the microbial digestion dominates in the colon. The colon is a fermentation organ, so to speak. When an "imbalance" develops between the colon and the small intestine, it may negatively affect defensin production. A decreased defensin level results in less resistance against microorganisms.

 

So how does an imbalance develop?

 

For example, intolerance against carbohydrates leads to excessive fermentation in the colon, which in turn leads to excessive flatulence. Flatulence means that the colon is – figuratively speaking – inflated; the closing mechanism between the small intestine and the colon doesn’t function properly anymore, and bacteria migrate from the small intestine to the colon. This causes an infection of the small intestine and, together with reduced production of defensins, this combination frequently leads to colon cancer over time.

 

Our cells use various substances to communicate among themselves – the umbrella term for these substances is "cytokines"; the defensins are a group of cytokines. These cytokines lead to the activation of signaling pathways in the cell.

 

Try to imagine it this way: Cell A (an immune cell) tells Cell B (an oral mucosa cell): "Produce more mucus, because there are bacteria present." However, Cell A doesn’t talk to Cell B, but releases signaling molecules called cytokines.

 

Like a key-lock system, these cytokines have the effect that signaling pathways are activated in Cell B; in the end, this leads to increased production of mucus. Think of the signaling pathways as a factory where the boss gives the foreman an order, which the foreman then announces over the microphone. Right away, the workers get busy, etc... The same signaling cascade takes places in the cell.

 

Interestingly, it was found that similar signaling pathways are activated by bacteria in the gingival pockets (in patients with periodontitis) as with cancer patients. Hence, there may be a correlation between these diseases.

The Basics of Flossing

 

It may sound like a simple question, but do you really know the basics about how to floss your teeth properly?

This video may help you refresh your memory, and subsequently refresh your oral health.

 

Now your day, and your smile can be brighter!

 

What You Should Know about Tooth Whitening

In the blossoming world of cosmetic dentistry, teeth whitening reigns supreme. Universally valued by men and women alike, whitening (or bleaching) treatments are available to satisfy every budget, time frame and temperament. Whether in the form of one-hour bleaching sessions at your dentist's office, or home-use bleaching kits purchased at your local drugstore, teeth whitening solutions abound. Yet only 15 percent of the population has tried the cosmetic procedure, and there is a lot of misinformation.

The long and the short of it is that teeth whitening works. Virtually everyone who opts for this cosmetic treatment will see moderate to substantial improvement in the brightness and whiteness of their smile. However, teeth whitening is not a permanent solution and requires maintenance or "touch-ups" for a prolonged effect.

Bleaching vs. Whitening

According to the FDA, the term "bleaching" is permitted to be used only when the teeth can be whitened beyond their natural color. This applies strictly to products that contain bleach – typically hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.

The term "whitening," on the other hand, refers to restoring a tooth's surface color by removing dirt and debris. So any product that cleans (like a toothpaste) is considered a whitener. Of course, the term whitening sounds better than bleaching, so it is more frequently used – even when describing products that contain bleach.

Teeth Whitening Options

Three major teeth whitening options are available today. All three rely on varying concentrations of peroxide and varying application times.

In-Office Whitening

Significant color change in a short period of time is the major benefit of in-office whitening. This protocol involves the carefully controlled use of a relatively high-concentration peroxide gel, applied to the teeth by the dentist or trained technician after the gums have been protected with a paint-on rubber dam. Generally, the peroxide remains on the teeth for several 15 to 20 minute intervals that add up to an hour (at most). Those with particularly stubborn staining may be advised to return for one or more additional bleaching sessions, or may be asked to continue with a home-use whitening system.

In-office teeth whitening cost: $650 per visit (on average) nationwide.

Professionally Dispensed Take-Home Whitening Kits

Many dentists are of the opinion that professionally dispensed take-home whitening kits can produce the best results over the long haul. Take-home kits incorporate an easy-to-use lower-concentration peroxide gel that remains on the teeth for an hour or longer (sometimes overnight). The lower the peroxide percentage, the longer it may safely remain on the teeth. The gel is applied to the teeth using custom-made bleaching trays that resemble mouth guards.

Take-home teeth whitening kit cost: $100 to $400.

Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening

The cheapest and most convenient of the teeth whitening options, over-the-counter bleaching involves the use of a store-bought whitening kit, featuring a bleaching gel with a concentration lower than that of the professionally dispensed take-home whiteners. The gel is applied to the teeth via one-size-fits-all trays, whitening strips or paint-on applicators. In many cases this may only whiten a few of the front teeth unlike custom trays that can whiten the entire smile.

Over-the-counter teeth whitening cost: $20 to $100.

Teeth Whitening Risks

Teeth whitening treatments are considered to be safe when procedures are followed as directed. However, there are certain risks associated with bleaching that you should be aware of:

• Sensitivity: Bleaching can cause a temporary increase in sensitivity to temperature, pressure and touch. This is likeliest to occur during in-office whitening, where higher-concentration bleach is used. Some individuals experience spontaneous shooting pains ("zingers") down the middle of their front teeth.
  
  Individuals at greatest risk for whitening sensitivity are those with gum recession, significant cracks in their teeth or leakage resulting from faulty restorations. It has also been reported that redheads, including those with no other risk factors, are at particular risk for tooth sensitivity and zingers.
  
  Whitening sensitivity lasts no longer than a day or two, but in some cases may persist up to a month. Some dentists recommend a toothpaste containing potassium nitrate for sensitive teeth.
• Gum irritation: Over half of those who use peroxide whiteners experience some degree of gum irritation resulting from the bleach concentration or from contact with the whitening trays. Such irritation typically lasts up to several days, dissipating after bleaching has stopped or the peroxide concentration lowered.
• Technicolor teeth: Restorations such as bonding, crowns, or porcelain veneers are not affected by bleach and therefore maintain their default color while the surrounding teeth are whitened. This results in what is frequently called "technicolor teeth."

Maintaining Your Teeth Whitening Results

To extend the longevity of newly whitened teeth, dentists are likely to recommend:

• At-home follow-up or maintenance whitening – implemented immediately or performed as infrequently as once a year.
• Avoiding dark-colored foods and beverages for at least a week after whitening.
• Whenever possible, sipping dark-colored beverages with a straw.
• Practicing excellent oral hygiene – brushing and flossing after meals and at bedtime.

Having Dental Issues? Let's Review the Basics of Dental Care

Having Dental Problems? Its time to brush through the fundamentals of Dental Care

We often get to hear that eyes speak a lot about a person. They of course do! But what about teeth? I believe they contribute a lot in making or marring the personality of an individual. One glossy smile empowers you to win hearts very easily.

A smile flashed from a healthy set of teeth tends to attract and leave an impression. On the other hand, you may find bad breath and yellow teeth equally repulsive.

No other make-up effect can throw the same impact as clean pearly white teeth and fresh smelling breath.

Dental care is an integral part of hygienic and healthy living. Dentistry deals with dental care diagnosis, impediment, and management and curing of dental infections including gums, tooth decay, associated structures of mouth and flawed teeth. Considering dental care as a tooth whitening system is a safe and gentle way of curing discolorations and blemishes on teeth or enhancing and maintaining the natural color. Other than keeping your teeth in good condition, maintaining good oral health also builds self-confidence in overall appearance. Teeth cleaning appear more tempting if the result promises a brighter smile.

Several people are suffering from dental illness due to absolute idleness or lack of knowledge for adequate dental health. They fail to comprehend that teeth, gums and related mouth structures are extremely important for a sound health, physical appearance and overall well-being. Any dental condition, if not treated properly and in time, can lead to a bad situation. In fact, dental conditions are indicators of some other serious health problems, such as diabetes and HIV infection.

Following some simple techniques of personal hygiene can go a long way in preventing severe dental disorders in human beings.

1. Brushing your Teeth – You can enjoy FREE dental healthcare just by practicing the conventional way of brushing your teeth. Brushing teeth, twice a day, is a necessary and priority exercise for preventing tooth decomposition and gum ailments. However, it is also important to brush your teeth using the proper motion with your toothbrush.

2. Toothbrush Power – Your toothbrush is your key weapon to fight dental ailments. Remember to change your brush regularly and pay attention to form and size of toothbrush. Coarse bristles can pose extreme damage to your tooth enamel and injure your sensitive gums.

3. Submitting to Fluoride – Fluoride assists in protection from tooth decay. Using appropriate toothpaste containing fluoride is the best remedy for dental care.

4. Regular Check-ups – Proper and in time diagnosis of dental problems can save you a lot of physical and monetary loss. Regular visits to your dentist can be one of the surest means to have perfect dental health. Experts recommend visiting your dentist’s office regularly every 6 months.

5. Flossing your teeth – Regular flossing post brushing is another simple way for preventing any gum disease. The accurate way to floss your teeth is to place the floss very gently amidst your teeth along the gum portion. Flossing discards the debris / plaque from the gum area of your teeth which cannot be reached and removed by your toothbrush. First time flossing may lead to slight bleeding, which will eventually cease once you start flossing your teeth regularly.

6. A Good Balanced Diet – Eating a well nourished and balanced diet is another criterion for securing good dental health. Make sure that your everyday diet contains enough of calcium, iron and vitamins in proper quantity. You may even consume pill supplements of vitamin and calcium if your diet is not carrying enough proportion.

7. Mouthwash Backing – Always remember to use mouthwash daily if you are concerned about your oral health, but only after recommendation from your dentist. Mouthwash is an excellent solution for maintaining excellent oral health as it keeps your mouth clean and fresh. Most dental specialists insist on the use of a fluoride-based mouthwash. Fluoride prevents and destroys bacteria responsible for causing plaque that leads to cavities and other gum diseases.

8. Dental Insurance – Dental care maintenance can be a costly affair. Therefore, acquiring dental insurance from a sound dental insurance company can mitigate the worries and hassles of otherwise expensive rate oral or dental care. Check for the dental insurance that covers the cost of dental treatment, from a regular dental health check to a severe or urgent situation.

Making the small effort that it takes to follow the basics of good dental care can pay off greatly over the years, giving you not only a beautiful smile, but a strong and healthy mouth that will last you a lifetime.

Toothbrushing Songs for Children

Without understanding the serious consequences of poor dental health, children have no compelling incentive to stand there and swipe that toothbrush around for more than just a few obligatory seconds. Singing a song is a classic solution, but how many tooth songs do you know offhand? That’s what I thought.

Here are some great songs with familiar tunes, listed below, to help teach children the value of healthy teeth (this Preschool Education website is a great resource). Here are some of our favorites:

Are Your Teeth Clean and White

(To the tune of “Do Your Ears Hang Low”)

Are your teeth clean and white?
Do you brush them every night?
Do you brush them in the morning?
Do you brush them right?
Do you brush them side to side?
Are your teeth clean and white?
Do you floss them good
To remove the bits of food?
Do you floss them every day
Like you know you should?
Do you take good care of
The teeth that are there?
Do you floss them good?

(Disclaimer: As somewhat of a word nerd, I do not advocate poor grammar. Use that song at your own discretion. If you are a normal person, please ignore this disclaimer.)

Got My Toothpaste

(To the tune of “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star”)

Got my toothpaste, got my brush,
I won’t hurry, I won’t rush.
Making sure my teeth are clean,
Front and back and in-between,
When I brush for quite a while,
I will have a happy smile.

I've Been Brushing

(To the tune of “I’ve Been Working on the Railroad”)

I’ve been brushing with my toothbrush,
Brushing every day
I’ve been brushing with my toothbrush,
It’s how I fight decay.
All my teeth are gonna sparkle,
How proud I will be.
Every time I want to smile, my
Teeth will shine for me!
Always brush your teeth,
Every single day.
Keep those cavities away!
Use your brush and paste,
Just the way you should,
Keep your smile a-lookin’ good!

Feel free to visit the Preschool Education website for even more ideas, and watch your little ones look forward to brushing their teeth.

Manual or Electric Toothbrush?

While manual toothbrushes are still popular nowadays, some people have already been upgrading to electric toothbrushes. There are certain reasons why people choose to use electric toothbrushes. These fancy toothbrushes will not replace the traditional one, so there should be no hype. A quality manual toothbrush can still surpass even the best electric toothbrush in terms of convenience and cost. Any toothbrush will function well if the person knows how to use it properly.

Do you really need an electric toothbrush?

The manual toothbrush cannot be easily replaced by its electric counterpart, because it has performed very well since the time it became commercially available.

The cost of the usual toothbrush is its biggest advantage. For most people, it is absurd to spend too much for a toothbrush. There is something that you could use every day that costs only a few dollars and is effective in cleaning your teeth, so why go for the more expensive one when the cheaper one is good enough? At the same time, manual toothbrushes are available everywhere.

Another disadvantage of electric ones is their bulkiness. The usual one can be conveniently stuffed into even a small bag of toiletries when you travel.

Your dexterity plays a key role when you are brushing your teeth. When you hold your toothbrush you automatically determine how much pressure you need to apply on your teeth when brushing. This is something you would work a little bit harder with on electric toothbrushes. Chances are you could place too much pressure on your teeth. Too much pressure on teeth causes fast erosion of the tooth enamel. This is why the usual toothbrush is the safer option.

When can you use an electric one?

Just because manual toothbrushes have more plus factors, does not mean that electric ones are completely useless. For people who cannot manually brush their teeth for some reason, the electric type is the better option. People with disabilities, arm injuries, and other conditions that affect their ability to use their hands may benefit from electric toothbrushes.

Electric toothbrushes have diverse features. Some only have the basic rotating feature, while others have pressure sensors and timers. But regardless of the features, the most important thing is the bristles. They should be soft enough to not damage the gums or erode the tooth enamel. They should also be properly arranged for effective cleaning. There are special types that have been designed to reach difficult areas.

Certain types of electric toothbrushes are better at cleaning teeth than other kinds. The ability to remove plaque and prevent gum problems depends basically on the motion of the bristles. Some electric ones have bristles that move in one direction only. The best electric toothbrush is one whose bristles move in alternate directions where the bristles move first in one direction and then rotate in the opposite direction. This alternating clockwise and counterclockwise rotation cleans the teeth better than a one-direction rotation.

Unless you have a fractured arm, it's probably better to stick with the manual toothbrush and learn how to brush properly. You also need to floss your teeth to remove debris in-between teeth. Brush your tongue and the insides of the cheek too. Follow every dentist's advice: brush your teeth at least twice daily. Also, you must replace your toothbrushes once the bristles have worn out, which usually would be every two months.