South Florida Cosmetic Dentistry Blog, Taking Care of Your Teeth, Dental News

Football and your Teeth

Posted on February 3, 2012

Being that this weekend is the “Big Game” we thought it was important to talk about football injuries, your teeth and how to protect yourself from them. Football is an extremely popular game for both kids and professionals to both play and watch. Being that it is a very contact sport it can cause a lot of injuries including teeth fractures.

Tooth fractures can range from minor (involving chipping of the outer tooth layers called enamel and dentin) to severe (involving vertical, diagonal, or horizontal fractures of the root). Enamel and dentin are the two outer protective layers of the tooth. The enamel is the outermost white hard surface. The dentin is a yellow layer lying just beneath the enamel. Enamel and dentin both serve to protect the inner living tooth tissue called the pulp. The visible one-third of the tooth is called the crown, while the remaining two-thirds of the tooth buried in the bone is called the root.

The upper front permanent teeth are the most common teeth to be completely knocked out. If possible permanent teeth should be retrieved, kept moist, and placed back into their sockets (reimplanted) as soon as possible. The most important variable affecting the success of reimplantation is the amount of time that the tooth is out of its socket. Teeth reimplanted within one hour of the accident frequently reattach to their teeth sockets.

Mouth guards have been shown to reduce trauma not only to teeth, gums, and the surrounding jaw bone but also to reduce injury to the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) and to reduce the intensity and number of head concussions. Mouth guards also reduce pressure and bone deformation of the skull when a force is directed to the chin. Before the mandatory use of face masks and mouth guards for high school and college football players in 1963, 50% of all football injuries involved the face and the mouth. Since the mandatory use of these protective devices, dental injuries in football players have greatly declined.

To learn more about teeth injuries, caused by football and other sports and mouth guards to prevent such injuries call your local Gentle Dental Dentist by calling 1-888-513-7436. Enjoy the “Big Game”!

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What are Those Instruments That Go In Your Mouth?

Posted on February 2, 2012

Did you ever wonder what the tools are that your dentist puts in your mouth, when you go for a checkup? Dental instruments are the tools that dental professionals use to provide dental treatment. They include tools to examine, manipulate, restore and remove teeth and surrounding oral structures. Here are a few of the main tools, you see and feel during each dental visit and what they do:

Dental mirrors are used by the dentist and hygenist to view a mirror image of the teeth in locations of the mouth where visibility is difficult or impossible. They also are useful for reflecting light onto desired surfaces, indirect vision, and with retraction of soft tissues to improve access or vision.

A dental explorer or sickle probe is an instrument in dentistry commonly used in the dental checkup. A sharp point at the end of the explorer is used to enhance tactile sensation. Dentists use the explorer to help determine the presence of tooth decay on the tooth enamel.

The excavator is used by the dentist to remove decay from the tooth. They are also known as a spoon excavator because the tiny ends resemble spoons and enable the dentist to “spoon” out the decay.

These are just a few of the many tools, Gentle Dental dentists use to to help give a greater smile. To learn more about the various instruments and to make an appointment call 1-888-513-7436.

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Importance of Dental Checkups & Cleanings

Posted on February 1, 2012

Good oral hygiene is important, not only for looks, but for general health as well. Poor oral hygiene can lead to a variety of dental and medical problems. Regular check ups and cleanings can prevent these problems as well as provide you with good oral hygiene. Here are a few good reasons why you should make regular appointments for checkups with your local Gentle Dental office.

When you have a dental cleaning, your Gentle Dental dentist can also screen for oral cancer, which is highly curable if diagnosed early.

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.

Regular dental check ups and cleanings along with brushing and flossing are vital in preventing tooth decay. Keeping your teeth means better chewing function and ultimately, better health.

These are just a few of the obvious reasons why checkups and cleanings are so very important to maintain great oral health and memorable smiles. To make an appointment with your local Gentle Dental office call 1-888-513-7436.

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Toothpaste Spotlight – Sensodyne

Posted on January 31, 2012

If you have sensitive teeth you may want to look into the Sensodyne brand toothpaste. Sensodyne Sensitivity is known to relieve the pain of sensitive teeth by building protection to soothe the nerve and block the pain caused by hot, cold, acidic and sweet foods. Daily use of this toothpaste also keeps the sensitivity from coming back. Sensodyne contains an active ingredient, Potassium Nitrate, that is clinically proven to reduce painful sensitivity. This brand toothpaste can give relief, in as quickly as 2 weeks.

Sensodyne also has a product called Sensodyne ProNamel. This protect is known to protect the enamel from acid erosion. One of ProNamel’s active ingredients, fluoride, is widely endorsed, not only for cavity protection but to make teeth more resistant to acid attacks and to repair previous acid decay.

Being around for over 40 years, Sensodyne definitely has many supporters and happy customers. Speak with your Gentle Dental dentist today by calling 1-888-513-7436 to see if it is the right toothpaste for you and your family.

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Become A Fan on Facebook And Win Dental Care Benefits

Posted on January 30, 2012

Everyone loves to win something and everyone loves Facebook. Well if you are on Facebook there are three easy things you can do to win a Free Adult VIP Discount Membership. All you need to do is “Like” the Gentle Dental page www.facebook.com/GentleDentalFL on or before February 14th, 2012 and post on its wall an answer to the question: “Can you name a TV show or Movie that features a scene about going to the dentist or practicing oral health care?” Oh yes after you post it you have to share your post with your friends. It is that simple!

The membership valued at $149 is good for one year and will be chosen at random by a Gentle Dental staffer after February 14th, 2012. The Gentle Dental VIP Program is ideal for patients without insurance, those who have exhausted their annual dental insurance benefits and those who seek discounts on cosmetic dental treatments. The Gentle Dental VIP Program is simple and easy and offers many benefits, including:

- Personal choice of any general dentist, specialist, or hygienist in any of Gentle Dental South Florida dental offices.
- Discounted fees on all dental treatment offered in all 19 Gentle Dental South Florida dental offices, including general, cosmetic and specialty dentistry.
- No referrals, pre-approvals or authorization required.
- No waiting period for any services; all discounts are available to you immediately.
- No limits, maximums, or excluded treatments.
- No insurance claims, paperwork, or hassles.
- Same-day care for true dental emergencies.
- Never a charge for second opinions!
- A team who REALLY CARES about you and your dental health.

So have fun and tell us your favorite TV show or movie that involves teeth. It can possibly lead you to a much bigger smile! For more information on the rules and regulations click here or call 877-343-3253.

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Dental Implants Give You A Natural Smile

Posted on January 27, 2012

Surgically placed below the gums, dental implants fuse to the jawbone and serve as a base for individual replacement teeth, bridges or a denture. Unlike other options, dental implants offer true stability. Integration of the implants into your jaw also helps your replacement teeth feel more natural.

If you decide to go with the dental implant option, surgery is performed to place the anchor. After the gums have had several weeks to heal, the artificial teeth are made and fitted to the post portion of the anchor. Because several fittings may be required, this step can take one to two months to complete. A local or general anesthetic may be used. Usually pain medications and, when necessary, antibiotics are prescribed.

To be eligible for dental implants you need to have healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant. A thorough evaluation by your Gentle Dental Oral Surgeon or Periodontist will help determine whether you are a good candidate for dental implants. To make an appointment call 1-888-513-7436.

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The Facts About Mouthwash

Posted on January 26, 2012

Did you know that the first general mouthwash product was sold in 1914? It has been saving breaths for a long time and is often bought and used to combat embarrassing bad breath (halitosis). But mouthwash is more than just a good mask for a lunchtime garlic & onion fest. Mouthwash contains active ingredients that are a great supplement to brushing your teeth and regular dental checkups.

Mouthwashes can be purchased in three basic varieties: antiseptic, fluoride rinse or combination. Antiseptic mouthwashes are formulated to help fight bacteria that cause bad breath. They are also used to treat dental diseases such as gingivitis, a disease of the gums. Fluoride rinses are intended to aid in prevention of tooth decay. Combination mouthwashes, as the name implies, are designed to minimize tooth decay and keep breath fresh.

Everyone knows the importance of brushing the teeth and periodic dental exams, but regular use of mouthwash can provide additional benefit for good oral hygiene. A daily rinse can get into the hard-to-reach areas that a toothbrush often misses. It can kill the odor-causing bacteria and prevent germs that lead to tooth decay.

To learn more about mouth rinse and to figure out which type is best for you and your family speak to your Gentle Dental dentist by calling 1-888-513-7436.

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Allergies To Latex

Posted on January 25, 2012

Natural rubber latex is a common ingredient found in many medical or dental supplies and devices, such as masks, gloves, syringes, catheters, dressings, tape and bandages. Unlike some consumer goods made from synthetic (man made) latex, such as house paint, natural rubber latex is derived from a milky substance found in rubber trees. While many people come in safe contact with latex-containing products every day, some people have developed hypersensitivity from natural rubber latex, which can cause allergic reactions.

When exposed to a natural rubber latex, a latex-sensitive individual, whether a health care worker or a patient, may experience minor symptoms, such as hives or nasal congestion. Severe rare cases may result in anaphylaxis, a dangerous systemic reaction that causes a drop in blood pressure, difficulty breathing and swelling of the throat, tongue and nose.

Athough anyone can develop an allergy to latex, the number of people who do is quite small considering the millions who are exposed every day to consumer products that contain natural rubber latex. Individuals with an increased risk are those who have spina bifida and those who have undergone numerous surgeries. Someone who is prone to general allergies and has regular contact with latex may also develop the allergy.

If you feel or know you are allergic to latex please advise your Gentle Dental office and/or dentist when you arrive, so alternative methods can be taken. For more information and to make an appointment call 1-888-513-7436.

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Anesthesia & Sedation in Dentistry

Posted on January 24, 2012

If you are heading to the dentist or oral surgeon for a procedure such as a wisdom tooth extraction or a root canal there is a good chance you will get some type of anesthesia or sedation. There are several medications that are available to help create a more relaxed, comfortable experience. Some drugs control pain, some help you relax, and others put you into a deep sleep during dental treatment.

You and your Gentle Dental dentist can discuss a number of factors when deciding which drugs to use for your treatment. Choosing the right sedation for you or your child is based on a number of factors including the type of procedure being performed, your overall health, history of allergies and your anxiety level. Each are considered when determining which approach is best for your particular case.

Non-narcotic analgesics are the most commonly used drugs for relief of toothache or pain following dental treatment. This includes drugs such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen. Narcotic analgesics, such as those containing codeine, act on the central nervous system to relieve pain. They are used for more severe pain.

Topical local anesthetics are applied to mouth tissues with a swab to prevent pain on the surface level. Your Gentle Dental dentist may use a topical anesthetic to numb an area in preparation for administering an injectable local anesthetic. Topical anesthetics also may be used to soothe painful mouth sores.

General anesthesia involves anti-anxiety agents such as Nitrous Oxide and other sedatives. They can lead to deep sedation which can cause a loss of feeling and reduces consciousness in order to relieve both pain and anxiety.

With advances in dental techniques and medications you can greatly reduce—even eliminate—discomfort during a dental treatment. To learn more about sedation and to see which is the solution for you call your local Gentle Dental office today at 1-888-513-7436.

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Sour Candy and Your Teeth!

Posted on January 23, 2012

Sour candies have become an increasingly popular treat, especially among children, teens and young adults. But, did you know what maybe a harmless treat you pick up at the grocery store check out line can have a devastating effect on teeth? The high acidity of these fruity/sour candies can weaken and wear away tooth enamel, which is essential to healthy teeth. In some cases, the damage can be very severe and lead to permanent tooth loss.

Sour candies are very acidic, with a low pH level. Some are so acidic that it can actually burn gums and cheeks. Acid weakens and wears away tooth enamel and teeth without protective enamel are prone to tooth decay. When you continue to suck and chew on these candies continuous acid attacks your mouth.

You can protect your teeth in a variety of ways including reducing or completely eliminating consumption of sour candies. If you eat this type of candy, don’t chew and suck on it for long periods of time. Also, you may want to swish your mouth with water, drink milk or eat cheese afterwards to neutralize the acids. Chewing sugar-free gum also helps protect the tooth enamel by producing saliva.

After eating sour candy or other acidic foods or drinks, wait one hour before brushing teeth. Brushing right away increase the harmful effects of acid on teeth. Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft toothbrush to protect your teeth. Lastly, speak with your Gentle Dental Dentist about ways to reduce sensitivity or minimize enamel loss if erosion has begun. To make an appointment call 1-888-513-7436.

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