Oral Cancer: The Scary Truth Part One
June 9th, 2011The Dr. Oz Show – Oral Cancer: The Scary Truth Part One
Dr. Oz devoted half of his program yesterday to raising oral cancer awareness. Our dentists conduct an oral cancer screening as a part of every periodic examination; and we utilize the brush biopsy procedure, referred to in Dr. Oz’s program, as a first-line test whenever something looks unusual. If you are not sure that you are being screened at least annually, please bring it up with your dentist.
Elite Athletes at Higher Risk of Tooth Decay
May 29th, 2011If you train hard, be sure to see your dentist to assess your risk for dental disease that may be related to your athletic regimen. A study published in the International Journal of Sports Medicine in May, 2011, suggests that elite triathletes exhibit a general high-risk profile for tooth decay and erosion. This is believed to be due to a combination of long training sessions resulting in decreased salivary flow, and the intake of fermentable carbs and acidic sports drinks to meet high energy demands during training and competition.
How To Whiten Teeth
May 13th, 2011We get asked frequently about tooth whitening options. Historically, there have been three alternative processes for whitening your existing, natural teeth: in-office whitening; dentist-made whitening trays for home use; and over-the-counter applications, the most popular of which is a pre-formed strip.
The benefits of in-office whitening: it is the quickest and most effortless option. The drawbacks: it’s the costliest option; and the incidence and severity of short-term tooth sensitivity is greatest.
Whitening trays made by your dentist for home use are the gold standard. Benefits include lower cost than the in-office procedure; optimal control, as results are typically assessed daily over a period of a couple of weeks; optimal longevity; and you can whiten again at a later time at a very low cost. The drawback: it requires time, usually about two weeks the first time you whiten, and compliance, whether a couple of hours a day or overnight.
OTC whitening’s benefit is its low point of entry. It is a low-risk way to try whitening; and it produces satisfying results for some. The drawback is that for most, it will not meet even modest expectations.
An additional option now exists to whiten potentially as effectively as with trays, and nearly as inexpensively as with an OTC option. It is available only from a dentist. Please contact us if you’d like more information.
Thyroid Guards: Do You Need One for X-Rays?
April 19th, 2011Regarding “Dr. Oz” and thyroid guards during dental x-rays: he’s right. It should be standard practice to have one in place. Our office utilizes them for every intraoral film. In fact, we use an advanced, lead-free shield with a thyroid collar attached.
April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month
April 11th, 2011April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month. If you haven’t seen your dentist in a while, please find a way to do so. The survival rate for oral cancer is encouraging when it is detected early (before it spreads elsewhere) and very discouraging when it is not. Historical risk factors include tobacco use, alcohol use (>3 drinks/day), and age; but the fastest-growing demographic is among young nonsmokers and is believed to be initiated by the human papilloma virus (HPV). If you have been diagnosed with HPV, please inform your dentist. If you notice any unusual firmness, or a red or white patch of ANY size or significance in your mouth or throat, which does not heal within 14 days, please have it examined by your dentist.
Caring For Your Child’s Oral Health
March 25th, 2011National Children’s Dental Health Month has passed, but we continue to field a lot of questions about caring for children’s teeth. Please consider these suggestions:
- Have your child seen by your dentist (or a pediatric dentist) when the first tooth erupts or by age one, whichever comes first. Many dentists, including this one, will perform an initial exam at no charge. A year later will be too late for many children to prevent tooth decay. After that first visit, they should receive regular check-ups, just like you.
- Consider a power toothbrush for your toddler or older child, preferably one with a replaceable or rechargeable battery and a replaceable brush head. We think “Sonicare for Kids” is the best in the field, and can last for years to justify the premium cost. Any brand that offers a small, soft brush head is likely to be superior to a manual toothbrush. Remember to help them use it properly.
- Finally, question your child’s pediatrician or dentist about the use of fluoride supplements, especially if your children are currently using them. Supplements may be indicated for some, but not for others. Federal guidelines changed in 2011.
Toothpaste Recommendations: Sensodyne ProNamel
February 26th, 2011Our team’s favorite is Sensodyne ProNamel and ProNamel for Kids. One that we can’t recommend currently: Colgate Total products (search “FDA” & “triclosan.”) But we can recommend that you simply find a fluoridated toothpaste that you like, don’t use too much of it (just a pea-sized amount), and brush gently for two minutes at least twice daily. And, “whitening” toothpaste is fine; but don’t pay any extra for it.
Xylitol and Gum
February 17th, 2011If you like to chew gum, look for products containing xylitol. It’s a natural sweetener that is effective in the prevention of tooth decay. But be careful if you own a dog: xylitol is highly toxic to canines.
New Gums With Vitamins, Herbs and Varied Claims – New York Times
Welcome!
February 9th, 2011Welcome to our blog!
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