Let's All Eat Cheese

According to a study published in the May/June 2013 issue of General Dentistry, the peer-reviewed clinical journal of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), consuming cheese and other dairy products may help protect teeth against cavities.

The study sampled 68 subjects ranging in age from 12 to 15, and the authors looked at the dental plaque pH in the subjects' mouths before and after they consumed cheese, milk, or sugar-free yogurt. A pH level lower than 5.5 puts a person at risk for tooth erosion, which is a process that wears away the enamel.  "The higher the pH level is above 5.5, the lower the chance of developing cavities," explains Vipul Yadav, MDS, lead author of the study.

The subjects were assigned into groups randomly. Researchers instructed the first group to eat cheddar cheese, the second group to drink milk, and the third group to eat sugar-free yogurt. Each group consumed their product for three minutes and then swished with water. Researchers measured the pH level of each subject's mouth at 10, 20, and 30 minutes after consumption.

The groups who consumed milk and sugar-free yogurt experienced no changes in the pH levels in their mouths. Subjects who ate cheese, however, showed a rapid increase in pH levels at each time interval, suggesting that cheese has anti-cavity properties.

The study indicated that the rising pH levels from eating cheese may have occurred due to increased saliva production which could be caused by the action of chewing. Additionally, various compounds found in cheese may adhere to tooth enamel and help further protect teeth from acid.

"It looks like dairy does the mouth good," says AGD spokesperson Seung-Hee Rhee, DDS, FAGD. "Not only are dairy products a healthy alternative to carb- or sugar-filled snacks, they also may be considered as a preventive measure against cavities."

Why did the anesthetic not work at my dental appointment

Listed below are a few of the most common causes of local dental anesthetic failure:

1. Delivery Technique

Placement of the local anesthetic

The most common cause of not getting numb is when the dentist has missed the spot where he/she intended to deposit the local anesthetic.

Not waiting long enough for the local to work

The tooth has not been allowed enough time to go numb.

Giving the local too fast

Some local anesthesia techniques may not work as well if the local is given too quickly.

Choice of local anesthetic

Lidocaine or Septocaine with epinephrine works best for most situations. But if for some reason it does  not work for you, a different  anesthetic can be used.
If you have certain medical problems, an epinephrine-free solution might be preferred, such as Carbocaine.

Not giving enough local anesthetic

Sometimes it just takes a greater amount of local anesthetic to achieve profound numbing.

2. Anatomical Variation

Local anesthetic is usually effective if it is given in the right spot and has enough time to take effect. It works by blocking the nerve supply to the area being treated. 

However, there is huge anatomical variation between people. Some people have such an unusual anatomy that the “standard” dental injection does not work.

3.Infection/Inflammation

Local anesthetic is very pH sensitive. It requires a basic pH in which to work properly. Any time there is an area of acute infection and/or inflammation the pH drops and the environment becomes acidic, causing the anesthetic to not work well.

4.Fear/Anxitey

When a person is fearful or anxious, the local anesthetic may not work as well as when you’re relaxed. The hormones related to anxiety can prevent local anesthetic from working properly in some people. The actual neurophysiological mechanism by which stress hormones prevent the anesthetic from working properly is still unclear.

Does Teeth Whitening Harm My Enamel?

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), both over-the-counter (OTC) and whitening products you buy from the dentist are mostly safe and effective. However, the ADA recommends a dental consultation before self-treating in order to avoid making any existing problems with teeth and gums worse.

In addition, the ADA also acknowledges that whitening agents can cause irritation to the gums and tooth and sensitivity which usually goes away shortly after treatment ends.

Another consideration before whitening is whether or not your teeth will respond to whitening strips or another method of bleaching. Dentists can look at tooth discoloration and recommend the best whitening method. Gray and brown tinged teeth won't respond well, and sometimes not at all, to whitening strips, while yellow-stained tooth surfaces likely will improve with bleaching

One other important consideration is how well consumers follow the application recommendations and instructions when using whitening strips. If applied incorrectly or pushed into the gums, extreme sensitivity and soreness may result. Using the strips too often and for too long also can damage tooth enamel and lead to underlying tissue damage below the gums.

Some dentists report that individuals can overuse whitening products  When used in excess, however, teeth can become porous and enamel can break down.  Teeth can even become almost translucent rather than white, so heeding the recommendations of a dentist and the instructions for the product is advisable.

Diabetes and Dental Care

Whether you have type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes, managing your blood sugar level is key. The higher your blood sugar level, the higher your risk of: 

• Tooth decay (cavities). Your mouth naturally contains many types of bacteria. When starches and sugars in food and beverages interact with these bacteria, a sticky film known as plaque forms on your teeth. The acids in plaque attack the hard, outer surface of your teeth (enamel). This can lead to cavities. The higher your blood sugar level, the greater the supply of sugars and starches — and the more acid wearing away at your teeth.
• Early gum disease (gingivitis). Diabetes reduces your ability to fight bacteria. If you don't remove plaque with regular brushing and flossing, it hardens under your gumline into a substance called tartar (calculus). The longer plaque and tartar remain on your teeth, the more they irritate the gum tissue. In time, your gums become swollen and bleed easily. This is gingivitis.
• Advanced gum disease (periodontitis). Left untreated, gingivitis can lead to a more serious infection called periodontitis, which destroys the gum tissue and bone that support your teeth. Eventually, periodontitis causes your gums to pull away from your teeth and your teeth to loosen and even fall out. Periodontitis tends to be more severe among people who have diabetes because diabetes lowers the ability to resist infection and slows healing. An infection such as periodontitis may also cause your blood sugar level to rise, which makes your diabetes more difficult to control. Preventing and treating periodontitis can help improve blood sugar control.

To help prevent damage to your teeth and gums, take diabetes and dental care seriously: 

• Make a commitment to managing your diabetes. Monitor your blood sugar level, and follow your doctor's instructions for keeping your blood sugar level within your target range.
• Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Brush in the morning, at night and, ideally, after meals and snacks. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste that contains fluoride. Avoid vigorous or harsh scrubbing, which can irritate your gums. Consider using an electric toothbrush.
• Floss your teeth at least once a day. Flossing helps remove plaque between your teeth and under your gumline.
• Schedule regular dental cleanings. Visit your dentist at least twice a year for professional cleanings.
• Make sure your dentist knows you have diabetes. Every time you visit your dentist, remind him or her that you have diabetes. Make sure your dentist has contact information for your doctor who helps you manage your diabetes.
• Look for early signs of gum disease. Report any signs of gum disease including redness, swelling and bleeding gums to your dentist. Also mention any other signs and symptoms, such as dry mouth, loose teeth or mouth pain.
• Don't smoke. Smoking increases the risk of serious diabetes complications, including gum disease. If you smoke, ask your doctor about options to help you quit.

Managing diabetes is a lifelong commitment, and that includes proper dental care. Your efforts will be rewarded with a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

Toothpaste History

Toothpaste dates back as far as 5000 BC. Ancient Egyptians were using a tooth powder to maintain a clean mouth. They didn’t use a toothbrush; just their fingers. The Greeks and Romans improved upon the process, but it wasn’t until 1873 that toothpaste was first mass-produced.

• The toothpaste of the Egyptians was made of mashed salt, crushed pepper, wet mint leaves, and dried iris flower. 

• The Greeks and Romans used a more abrasive formulation containing bones and oyster shells. In Rome toothpaste also included flavoring to help improve breath, in addition to powdered charcoal and bark.

• The Chinese culture used a combination of herbs, water, salt, and flower petals.

• In India twigs containing sweet nectar were used.

• In the 1800s a powder  containing soap and chalk was developed, followed by paste formula  developed in the 1850s.

• By the turn of the century toothpaste packaged in the tube was invented and more than a century later remains the delivery method of choice.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a surgical device, most commonly used to replace one or more missing teeth by fusing to the bone and acting as an artificial tooth root. The term, dental implant, technically refers only to the portion of the structure that is in the bone. To become functional, however, other parts are attached including an abutment, that comes through the gums, an abutment screw that joins the abutment to the implant and the crown which attaches to the abutment.
    

Single Tooth Replacement

To replace a single tooth, an implant is placed into the bone, where the previous root existed and is allowed to heal for a period of time. The time allowed for the implant to heal varies with the location, load, bone type and surgeon preference. Once the healing is complete a second piece, called an abutment, is secured to the implant with a screw. The crown is then cemented to the abutment.

Multiple Tooth Replacement

In multiple tooth replacement, the same concepts used in single tooth replacement apply. However, two or more implants may replace many teeth. In this case, the teeth that are directly over an implant are called the abutment teeth and the teeth without implants under them are called pontic teeth. Collectively, the fixture is referred to as an implant supported bridge or implant supported fixed partial denture.

Restoring an Entire Arch of Teeth

To restore an entire arch of teeth, the restoration can be either fixed or removable. In a fixed complete denture, a denture with a metal substructure is attached to four or more implants. Alternatively, a larger version of a dental bridge can be fabricated. A removable denture can also be created, where the implants have a small button or ball abutment and the denture houses a female adapter which grabs the abutment. In this case, the denture can be removed with finger pressure by the denture wearer. This is referred to as an implant supported overdenture.

Tooth sensitivity - causes and treatment

Tooth sensitivity is tooth discomfort in one or more teeth that is triggered by hot, cold, sweet, or sour foods and drinks, or even by breathing cold air.

What Causes Sensitive Teeth?

• Brushing too hard. Over time, brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down enamel and cause the under layer (dentin) and nerve endings to be exposed. It can also cause recession of the gums (the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth).
• Tooth decay near the gum line.
• Recession of the gums. As gums move away from a tooth due to conditions such as periodontal disease, the root surface becomes exposed.
• Gum disease. Inflamed and sore gum tissue may cause sensitivity due to the loss of supporting ligaments, which exposes the root surface that leads directly to the nerve of the tooth.
• Cracked teeth.
• Teeth Grinding. Grinding or clenching your teeth may wear down the enamel and expose underlying dentin.
• Tooth whitening products.
• Plaque build-up. The presence of plaque on the root surfaces can cause sensitivity.
• Mouthwash use. Long-term use of some mouthwashes. Some over-the-counter mouthwashes contain acids that can worsen tooth sensitivity if you have exposed dentin (the middle layer of the tooth). The acids further damage the dentin layer of the tooth. If you have dentin sensitivity, ask your dentist about the use of a neutral fluoride solution.
• Acidic foods. Regular consumption of foods with a high acid content, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, pickles, and tea, can cause enamel erosion.
• Recent routine dental procedures. Sensitivity can occur following teeth cleaning, root planing, crown placement, and tooth restoration. Sensitivity caused by dental procedures is temporary, usually disappearing in four to six weeks.

What Can I Do to Reduce Tooth Sensitivity?

• Maintain good oral hygiene.
• Use a soft bristled toothbrush.  Brush gently and carefully around the gum line.
• Use desensitizing toothpaste. There are several brands of toothpaste available for sensitive teeth. With regular use you should notice a decrease in sensitivity. You may need to try several different brands to find the product that works best for you. Another tip. spread a thin layer of the toothpaste on the exposed tooth roots with your finger or a Q-tip before you go to bed. 
• Watch what you eat. Frequent consumption of highly acid foods can gradually dissolve tooth enamel and lead to dentin exposure.
• Use fluoridated dental products. Daily use of a fluoridated mouth rinse can decrease sensitivity. Ask your dentist about available products for home use.
• Avoid teeth grinding. If you grind or clench your teeth, use a mouth guard at night.
• See your dentist at regular intervals. Get professional tooth cleaning, oral hygiene instructions, and fluoride treatments every six months (or sooner depending on your condition).

If you still have discomfort, talk to your dentist. There may be some dental procedures that may help reduce sensitivity, including the use of:

• White fillings to cover exposed root surfaces
• Fluoride varnishes applied to the exposed root surface
• Dentin sealers applied to the exposed root surface

Why do I need a crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped "cap" that is placed over a tooth to cover the tooth to restore its shape and size, strength, and improve its appearance.

The crowns, when cemented into place, fully encase the visible portion of a tooth. 

 

A dental crown may be needed in the following situations:

     1. If your cavity or filling takes up more than one third of the tooth surface.
     2. To cover a severely worn down tooth
     3. To cover malformed and or severely discolored teeth
     4. To cover a dental implant
     5. When having cosmetic work done
     6. After a root canal
 

 For children, a crown may be used on primary (baby) teeth in order to:

• Save a tooth that has been so damaged by decay that it can't support a filling.
• Protect the teeth of a child at high risk for tooth decay, especially when a child has difficulty keeping up with daily oral hygiene.
• Decrease the frequency of sedation and general anesthesia for children unable because of age, behavior, or medical history to fully cooperate with the requirements of proper dental care.

In such cases, a pediatric dentist is likely to recommend a stainless steel crown.

Continue reading below...

 

 

Why do I need a root canal?

A tooth's nerve and pulp can become irritated, inflamed, and infected due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on a tooth, and/or large fillings, a crack or chip in the tooth, or trauma.

When a tooth's nerve tissue or pulp is damaged, it breaks down and bacteria begin to multiply within the pulp chamber. The bacteria and other decayed debris can cause an infection or abscessed tooth. 

An abscess is a pus-filled pocket that forms at the end of the roots of the tooth. An abscess occurs when the infection spreads all the way past the ends of the roots of the tooth. In addition to an abscess, an infection in the root canal of a tooth can cause:

*Swelling that may spread to other areas of the face, neck, or head
*Bone loss around the tip of the root
*Drainage problems extending outward from the root. A hole can occur through the side of the tooth with drainage into the gums or through the cheek with drainage into the skin.
 

 

 A root canal is the treatment used to repair and save a tooth that has become  infected. During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp are removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and  sealed.

 

What Are the Signs That a Root Canal Is Needed?

Sometimes no symptoms are present; however, signs you may need a root canal include:

• Severe tooth pain upon chewing or application of pressure
• Prolonged sensitivity/pain to heat or cold temperatures (after the hot or cold has been removed)
• Discoloration (a darkening) of the tooth
• Swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums
• A persistent or recurring pimple on the gums

 

Why should I floss?

 

Brushing alone is not enough. Bristles of the toothbrush do not reach between the teeth.
Flossing does about 40% of the work required to remove bacteria, or plaque, from your teeth.

 Plaque generates acid, which can cause cavities, irritate the gums, and lead to gum disease.

Listed below are a few good reasons to floss:

1.To help prevent  bad breath (halitosis), cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease, all of which are caused by the bacteria between your teeth (where brushes can’t reach).

2.  To help reduce the risk of possible health issues such as Alzheimer’s disease, pancreatic cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and pneumonia, which can  be linked to the bacteria in your mouth.

3. To save money. Flossing is much cheaper than dental treatment!

Dental Humor

JUST TO MAKE                   YOU SMILE            
                                                             

Why do I need a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing)

 So your hygienist and/or dentist has informed you that you have periodontal disease and need a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing).




Periodontal disease is an infection in the gum tissue caused by the buildup of plaque and tarter (calculus). This infection destroys the bone which hold the root of your tooth in place. Left untreated, periodontal disease may result in tooth loss.

Periodontal disease is determined by probe readings (the measurement of the depth of the pocket between the tooth and gums) and x-rays. Probe readings greater than 3 millimeters and x-rays showing bone loss indicate infection in the gum tissue.

Scaling and root planing, otherwise known as  non-surgical periodontal therapy, or deep cleaning, is the process of removing plaque and calculus which cause inflammation/infection in the gum tissue.

Scaling and root planing is considered the basic treatment of periodontal diseases and may be the only treatment required to treat mild cases of periodontitis. However, in cases of more severe disease, surgical treatment may also be necessary.

Periodontal scaling procedures include the removal of plaque, calculus and stain from the crown and root surfaces of teeth. Root planing is a specialized skill involving scaling of the root of the tooth.

Because periodontal pockets are deeper than healthy gum pockets,  scaling and root planing are often referred to as deep cleaning, and may be performed using a number of dental tools, including ultrasonic instruments and hand instruments, and is normally done using a local anesthetic.

For the procedure to be considered effective, the patient must be able to be maintained at a level of periodontal health that will prevent reinfection. This requires optimal home care and ongoing periodontal maintenance therapy, usually every three to four months to sustain health.

Why should I have my teeth cleaned?

                                               




Good oral hygiene is important for the health of your teeth and gums and for your general health as well. Poor oral hygiene can lead to a variety of dental and medical problems such as gum disease, infection, bone loss, heart disease, strokes and more. Regular check ups and cleanings can help prevent these problems as well as help you to maintain good oral hygiene.

• Gum disease is an infection in the gum tissues and bone that keep your teeth in place and is one of the leading causes of adult tooth loss. If diagnosed early, it can be treated with scaling and root planning. If treatment is not received, a more serious and advanced stage of gum disease may follow which may require surgery to treat. Regular dental cleanings and check ups, flossing daily and brushing twice a day are key factors in preventing gum disease.

• Recent studies have linked heart attacks and strokes to gum disease, resulting from poor oral hygiene. A dental cleaning every 6 months helps to keep your teeth and gums healthy and could possibly reduce your risk of heart disease and strokes.  

• When you have your dental cleaning, your dentist/hygienist is also screening you for oral cancer, which is highly curable if diagnosed early. 

• Your dental hygienist will help to ensure that you are maintaining your good oral health by checking the health of your gum tissue, visual examination and comparing your previous dental check ups. If you are falling off track with your oral hygiene he / she will help put you back on the right path. 

• Your dental hygienist can remove most tobacco, coffee and tea stains. During your cleaning, your hygienist will also polish your teeth resulting in a whiter and brighter smile!

• Your dentist and hygienist will be able to detect any early signs of problems with your teeth or gums. Early detection of cavities, broken fillings and gum disease are easily treatable. If these problems go untreated, root canals, removal of teeth, or gum surgery could become the only treatment options available.

• Dental studies show that about 85 percent of people with persistent bad breath, also known as halitosis have a dental problem that is to blame. Good oral hygiene is essential in preventing bad breath. Regular check ups and cleanings are the best way to make sure that you are maintaining good oral hygiene. 

• Dental insurance plans usually pay for all or most of the cost of dental cleanings and check ups every six months. Take advantage of this and save a lot of money in the long run by avoiding costly dental procedures that can result from poor oral hygiene.

 

Laguna View Family Dental, Elk Grove Ca

MEET OUR DOCTOR

LEO W. TOWNSEND, DDS

Leo W. Townsend, D.D.S., is originally from Southern California and graduated from the University of California at Berkeley. He has been practicing dentistry since 1989 after graduating from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee and completing a GPR residency at the University of Rochester in Rochester, New York. He continually updates his dental techniques through classes and hands-on seminars. The doctor and his family have lived here in the Elk Grove / Laguna area for over 18 years.

CONTACT INFO
7915 Laguna Blvd., Suite 120
Elk Grove, CA 95758
Phone: (916) 683-1335
Fax: (916) 683- 4506
E-mail: info@lagunaview.com

OFFICE HOURS
Monday & Tuesday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Wed. & Thursday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

MEET OUR STAFF

Our office is committed to providing you with the highest quality dental care in the most gentle and efficient way. Located in the Laguna Creek area of Elk Grove, the office is near all major roadways, making locating us very easy and convenient to you. With a highly trained and experienced staff, Dr. Townsend will be able to tend to the dental needs of you and your family.
 Threca Wilson, RDH

Threca has been a hygienist for 17 years. She graduated from Sacramento City College Hygiene Program in 1996. Threca enjoys spending time with her husband and family. She enjoys playing golf, camping, fishing, and traveling. She looks forward to meeting you soon.

 Kimberly Arbuckle, Office Manager

Kimberly Arbuckle has been our Office Manager for over 5 years and has been a Registered Dental Assistant for the past 20 years.
She has a great sense of humor and  loves to make people feel at ease in the dental chair, and will assist you in all your dental needs. Kimberly is also very knowledgeable in insurance billing and will be able to help you maximize your insurance.
She is a wonderful mother of 2 grown girls. She enjoys cooking and spending time with her friends and  family. She looks forward to meeting you soon.

 Tina Ochoa, Scheduling Coordinator

Tina Ochoa has been our Scheduling Coordinator for 7 years. She has over 30 years experience working in the administrative doctor’s offices. She enjoys making sure all of our patients scheduling needs are met.
 Tina is bilingual in Spanish. She has been married for 34 years and has 2 adult sons. She enjoys reading and spending time with her family.
When calling or visiting our office Tina will be there to assist you promptly and professionally.

Erin Beatie, R.D.A.

Erin has worked in the medical field since 2003. She went back to school at Carrington College in 2010 to pursue a career in the dental field.
Erin enjoys spending time with her boyfriend and her 2 dogs. She enjoys riding quads, going to sprint car races, playing golf, and traveling. She is very active in the community and does a lot of volunteer work. She looks forward to meeting you.

Cavity Detection With DIAGNOdent

DIAGNOdent is an instrument used in our office that uses lasers to detect any signs of tooth decay. The benefit of such a device is that it is able to identify signs of tooth decay earlier than many other diagnostic techniques. This is a positive step in the treatment of teeth, as the sooner signs of tooth decay are found the better prepared we are to deal with them.  Because the decay is detected earlier, the number of dental procedures - and hence, the cost - can often be reduced. It's a great way to keep little problems from becoming big problems.

In the past tooth decay predominated in between teeth. With the widespread use of fluoride, the very nature of tooth decay has changed. The outer surfaces of teeth are strengthened and more resistant.

Today most tooth decay starts in the hard-to-see valleys and canyon-like anatomy of the tooth surface. Pit and valley cavities are traditionally the most difficult to detect using x-rays due to the direction the images are taken from. Images are taken from the side of the tooth, which essentially hides the cavity from the dentists view. An almost undetectable area of decay can aggressively penetrate inward towards the soft surfaces of the tooth and literally destroy the tooth from the inside out. This can happen before a cavity is even visible to the naked eye.

X-rays and DIAGNOdent complement each other. X-rays are good at finding cavities in between teeth and on the roots. DIAGNOdent is good at finding cavities on the biting surfaces of the teeth.

DIAGNOdent works by way of a laser which is calibrated to each individuals teeth.
The light of the laser is shone onto the teeth and a numerical reading appears on the unit. Teeth that are of good quality will show little to no reading (0 to 24 in our office), but those that are showing signs of decay will show a reading of 25 or higher. The DIAGNOdent measures laser fluorescence within the tooth structure. As the incident laser light is propagated into the site, two-way handpiece optics allows the unit to simultaneously quantify the reflected laser light energy. At the specific wavelength that the DIAGNOdent laser operates, clean healthy tooth structure exhibits little or no fluorescence, resulting in very low scale readings on the display. However, carious tooth structure will exhibit fluorescence, proportionate to the degree of caries, resulting in elevated scale readings on the display. Studies have shown the unit is equally accurate in both primary and permanent teeth.

DIAGNOdent is completely painless  and takes only a few minutes. It's energy level similar to that of a laser pointer, the laser beam is harmless to surrounding tissues. The DIAGNOdent laser is used as a routine part of exams and there is no additional fee associated with the scan.





 

Digital X-rays

Dentists consider x-rays one of the most helpful tools in helping patients maintain good oral health. X-rays help dentists diagnose  common disorders such as cavities, periodontal disease and infections, and some of the more uncommon problems, such as cysts, abscesses and tumors.

X-rays can also allow your dentist to determine whether a child's permanent teeth are erupting properly. In general, children need x-rays more often than adults because their mouths grow and change rapidly, and they are more susceptible to tooth decay than adults

An advance in x-ray technology is digital x-rays which uses sensors that feed the images to a computer.The digital x-ray system is more sensitive than the traditional dental x-ray film systems, so exposure to x-rays is cut by as much as 90 percent.

You are exposed to many sources of radiation every day, from the sun,  your home appliances etc. Radiation can damage the body's tissues and cells and can lead to the development of cancer, but fortunately, the radiation to which you are exposed during the taking of digital x-rays is extremely small.

Without the ability to see inside a tooth and beneath the gums, some disease would go undetected and more teeth would be lost because needed treatment wasn't started in time. If dental problems are found and treated early, dental care is more comfortable and affordable. Digital x-rays are not without risk, but the risk is minuscule compared with the huge diagnostic benefit of keeping your natural teeth healthy and disease free.

Pain Free Dental Injections

Let us introduce you to the DentalVibe

The DentalVibe is an instrument we use in our office to eliminate/reduce pain from dental injection. It somewhat looks and sounds like an electric toothbrush.

It is placed at the injection site.




The DentalVibe transmits vibration at the site. This sensation reaches the brain and blocks most if not all of the discomfort associated with the injection.


We have had very positive feedback from our patients.

Dental Phobia

How many times have you heard someone say "I hate going the dentist"? People who are very fearful of dental care often experience a "cycle of avoidance", in which they avoid dental care until they experience a dental emergency requiring invasive treatment, which can reinforce their fear of dentistry. 75% of US adults experience some degree of dental fear, from mild to severe. Approximately 5 to 10% of US adults are considered to experience dental phobia to the degree they avoid dental care at all cost. Women tend to report more dental fear then men and younger people tend to report being more dentally fearful than older individuals. There are two categories of dental fear direct and indirect.

Direct experience is the most common. Most people will say that their dental fear began after they experienced a painful or difficult treatment.

Indirect experiences are when a person hears of some else's traumatic experiences and/or negativity towards dentistry. A person may also preceive a sense of helplessness and/or loss of control. Mass media and cartoons may also contribute to dental fears. Fear caused by indirect experiences become a self-fulfilling prophecy "you believe it therefore it is".

Signs of dental phobia:
     Trouble sleeping the night before the dental appointment.
     Feelings of nervousness that escalate while in the dental office waiting room.
     Crying or feeling physically ill at the thought of visiting the dentist.
     Intense uneasiness at the thought of, or actually when, objects are placed in your mouth during 
     dental treatment or suddenly feeling like it is difficult to breath.

To help our patients overcome either types of these fears:
     We take intraoral photos to help explain the need for treatment.
     Explain exactly what the procedure is and how it will be done.
     Make sure to administer local anesthetic slowly and pain free with the use of the DentalVibe.
     Provide dark glasses and music of your choice.
    Allow our patient to stop any time during a procedure to take a break or disuss any concerns.

Toothbrushes

Various excavation sites over the world have uncovered chew sticks, tree twigs, bird feathers, animal bones and porcupine quills used to clean teeth.

A recent archaeological dig has found that the earliest use of toothbrushes may have occurred in India and Africa. It was discovered that a bristle toothbrush had been used there as early as 1600 B.C

The first bristle toothbrush found was in China and used hog bristle.  The bristle toothbrush spread to Europe by travelers. Many mass-produced toothbrushes, made with horse or boar bristle, were imported to England from China until the mid-20th century.

A photo from 1899 showing the use of a toothbrush.

By 1840 toothbrushes were being mass-produced in England, France, Germany, and Japan. Pig bristle was used for cheaper toothbrushes, and badger hair for the more expensive ones.

Mass production in the United States only started in 1885. The rather advanced design had a bone handle with holes bored into it for boar hair bristles.

Animal bristles were replaced by synthetic fibers, usually nylon, in 1938.

The first electric toothbrush was invented in Switzerland in 1954.

Oral health linked to your overall health

Your oral health is more important than you might realize. Get the facts about how the health of your mouth, teeth and gums can affect your general health.

Did you know that your oral health can offer clues about your overall health — or that problems in your mouth can affect the rest of your body?  Understand the intimate connection between oral health and overall health and what you can do to protect yourself.

What's the connection between oral health and overall health?

Like many areas of the body, your mouth is teeming with bacteria — most of them harmless.  Normally the body's natural defenses and good oral health care, such as daily brushing and flossing, can keep these bacteria under control. However, without proper oral hygiene, bacteria can reach levels that might lead to oral infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease.

In addition, certain medications — such as decongestants, antihistamines, painkillers and diuretics — can reduce saliva flow. Saliva washes away food and neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth, helping to protect you from microbial invasion or overgrowth that might lead to disease.

Studies also suggest that oral bacteria and the inflammation associated with periodontitis — a severe form of gum disease — might play a role in some diseases.  In addition, certain diseases, such as diabetes and HIV/AIDS, can lower the body's resistance to infection, making oral health problems more severe.

What conditions may be linked to oral health?

Your oral health might affect, be affected by, or contribute to various diseases and conditions, including:

Endocarditis. Endocarditis is an infection of the inner lining of your heart (endocardium). Endocarditis typically occurs when bacteria or other germs from another part of your body, such as your mouth, spread through your bloodstream and attach to damaged areas in your heart.  Cardiovascular disease. Some research suggests that heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke might be linked to the inflammation and infections that oral bacteria can cause.  Pregnancy and birth. Periodontitis has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.  Diabetes. Diabetes reduces the body's resistance to infection — putting the gums at risk. Gum disease appears to be more frequent and severe among people who have diabetes. Research shows that people who have gum disease have a harder time controlling their blood sugar levels.  HIV/AIDS. Oral problems, such as painful mucosal lesions, are common in people who have HIV/AIDS.  Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis — which causes bones to become weak and brittle — might be linked with periodontal bone loss and tooth loss.  

How can I protect my oral health?

To protect your oral health, practice good oral hygiene every day. For example:

Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Floss daily. Eat a healthy diet and limit between-meal snacks. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if bristles are frayed. Schedule regular dental checkups.  Also, contact your dentist as soon as an oral health problem arises.  Remember, taking care of your oral health is an investment in your overall health.

Did you know?????

• Paul Revere, in addition to earning a living as a silversmith and copper plate engraver, also worked as a dentist. Revere , in fact, is the first person known to use dental forensics, to identify the body of a colonial colonel killed at the Battle of Bunker Hill by the bridge appliance he wore.

• Brushing teeth used to be a rather disgusting activity, as toothpaste was made from various combinations of ash, charcoal, and/or tobacco, sometimes sweetened with honey. Some cultures actually used urine as a whitening mouthwash (urine contains urea, which somehow helps whiten teeth).

• During the Middle Ages, wealthy Europeans used twigs made out of sweet-smelling wood to clean their teeth.In 1498, the Emperor of China implanted hog bristles in a bone handle. This style of toothbrush became popular throughout Asia and Europe. However, because of the cost of hog bristles, poor people could not afford individual toothbrushes, so a whole family would share the same toothbrush. Believe it or not, most Americans didn't brush their teeth until soldiers brought the Army's enforced brushing habit back home from World War II.

Dental History

18th-century

Tooth extraction keys were named because of their resemblance to skeleton door keys. This 18th century iron key is about 6 inches long.

Mid 1800s

Traveling dentists, moving from town to town to provide dental care, would have transported their instruments in a leather roll.

1893

The Favorite Dental Chair, manufactured by the Ritter Dental Manufacturing Company.  It was put on the market on January 1, 1901 and cost between $150 and $172 depending on whether the upholstery was ordered in seal leather, cane, or mohair plush. The sectional headrest was $10 extra. The range of the Model No. 1 Favorite Chair was from 18 inches at the lowest position to 35 inches at the highest position. The lowest position of the chair when tilted back was 12 inches.

Late 1800s

Eight months after the discovery of the x-ray was announced in 1896, Louisiana dentist C. Edmund Kells demonstrated the first dental application of this new technology in the U.S (Pictured x-ray tube, Machlett Company, 1913)

1958

The Den-Tal-Ez Chair was the first successful reclining dental chair.  Within a decade of its introduction almost all dentists were using reclining dental chairs.