Soda and Cavities

Dentists can usually spot a soda drinker because they are often prone to cavities and white spots on their teeth known as decalcification, which are actually the start of new cavities. Sweetened soda contains a high amount of sugar, a carbohydrates that can promote cavities. Soda may even be more damaging to the teeth than other sugar containing beverages because it is also acidic. This in itself erodes tooth enamel. When the bacteria in our mouths are exposed to sugar they metabolize and produce acid. As "sugary foods" are eaten (candy, sugar frosted cereal, ice cream, soda)and other carbohydrates this acid begins to dissolve the hard enamel coating on the outer surface of your teeth. Every exposure to these foods allows an acid attack on the teeth for about 20 minutes! Several studies were done on sweetened soda and mineral water. Teeth exposed to cola, orange and lime soda had significantly more decalcification than those exposed to mineral water. Of all sodas tested, cola caused the most. The easiest way to prevent cavities is by brushing your teeth at least three times a day, especially after eating or drinking your favorite foods. And its always important to brush before bed. Also using a straw with your favorite drinks helps sugar pass you teeth. So have fun eat and drink you favorite foods and soda "just brush"!

Watch your mouth! For health warning signs that is.

As we head into the New Year, here is a list of general health-related conditions that show warning signs in your mouth. Sure you want to keep your dental health strong and many people know that gum disease is connected with heart disease. I encourage you to have more awareness of your dental health in the new year and that includes these warning signs.

Flat, worn teeth and headaches are signs of stress and TMJ. People often grind their teeth in their sleep when they are experiencing stress. This stress level, left unchecked, can lead to other physical and emotional issues. And, TMJ… you’ve seen plenty about TMJ treatment on my blog. If you have worn teeth and bruxism, please see me for a TMJ evaluation.

Cracking teeth is a warning sign for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Stomach acid is a major factor in tooth erosion. Of course not brushing away sugars will cause your tooth enamel to erode, too. But if you take good care of your mouth with brushing and flossing and you still have tooth erosion, you may want to look for treatment for GERD.

A mouth sore that don’t heal is a sign of oral cancer. An oral cancer screening is part of your regular checkup and it is a good reason to keep your appointments for cleanings and check ups.

Gums that grow over teeth are a sign of issues with prescription medication. Your medication for seizures, heart disease or autoimmune diseases could be causing this reaction if the medication is not adjusted properly.

And, a dry mouth is a sign of diabetes. There are many early warning signs of diabetes and one small tip that you might need to see a doctor for a diabetes screening is a persistent lack of saliva.

Watch for these warning signs as you manage the home care of your dental health. Please see me regularly for check ups this year as well, so we can make sure your dental health is at its peak.

Gum Disease and Smoking

As you probably already know, tobacco use is linked with many serious illnesses such as cancer, lung disease and heart disease, as well as numerous other health problems. What you may not know is that tobacco users also are at increased risk for periodontal disease. In fact, recent studies have shown that tobacco use may be one of the most significant risk factors in the development and progression of periodontal disease. The chemicals in tobacco also slows down the healing process in the body. Also when calculus builds up in the mouth it makes it harder for you to keep it clean. If not removed by a trained hygienist your mouth builds up with disease and bacteria which destroys gum tissue and causes boneless. It can also cause toothloss, bad breath, loss of taste and mouth sores. For more info on smoking and gum disease go to WWW.Perio.Org.

From Numb to Normal

Do you hate being numb after your dental appointment? It sometimes takes three hours for your mouth to wake up. That's such a drag. Well Dr. Rose has a new product called OraVerse. This great invention can rapidly reverse the effects of your local dental anesthetic. It is scientifically proven to accelerate the return of normal sensation and function following a routine dental procedure. The average person is numb 3-4 hours. OraVerse can help you return to normal in half the time. This breakthrough changes your measure of comfort by creating an easy and expedient return to your normal activities. Dr. Rose and his team of professionals want you to have the most comfortable experience as possible. Its a commitment that begins when you walk in the door and extends long after you leave. So talk, smile and drink normally in about half the time because OraVerse will bring you back. Call for an appointment 866-76-SMILE

The Magic Wand

Who hates going to the dentist? I bet your favorite part of your dental visit it the shot, right? Ha ha very funny you say. Well Dr Rose has a new way to get your tooth sleepy. Its called Single Tooth Anesthesia "The Magic Wand". This is the first computer controlled local dental anesthetic system where just one injection at a single tooth is all that's needed to scientifically, safely and predictable ensure single-session injection precision. Its evenly effective for multi-quadrant cases. This machine is the only system of its kind. Dr. Rose is now using this amazing machine and our patients are loving it. It's easy, simple and practically PAINLESS! Go to there website http://www.milesci.com to watch CBS News report on this amazing invention.