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Research Links Oral Health with Obesity

Tuesday, July 19th, 2011

Research Links Obesity with Oral HealthHolistic dentistry has linked oral health with just about every physical and nonphysical part of the human body.  Now, British researchers have discovered a link between oral health and obesity.  The study examined periodontal pockets and body mass index (BMI), concluding that higher BMIs are correlated with deeper periodontal pockets.  This research evidences the need for overall wellness reflection when considering oral health.

 

Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

Dr. Nigel Carter expressed his growing concern with oral health and obesity during the National Childhood Obesity week, stating “As almost 1 in 4 adults in the UK are classed as being obese, and gum disease is recognized as a major cause of tooth decay[…] there is definitely a case for doctors relaying information on how diet is directly affecting their oral health,” (i).

 

Dr. Nigel, current Chief Executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, supports the hallmark of holistic dentistry:  overall wellness is reflected through the mouth.  The human body is a complex and interconnected system that requires holistic attention from all medical professionals.  Doctors should better educate patients about nutrition and oral health, and dentists have a similar responsibility to explain the connection between oral health and overall wellness.

Miami Dentist Blog:  Holistic Wellness Articles

Our Miami dentist office has blogged about the importance of considering how oral health is tied to overall well being on numerous occasions.  The following articles explore this connection:

 

Why See a Holistic Dentist?:  This article contrasts traditional dentistry with the new holistic approach that a number of professionals are practicing.  Holistic dentistry seeks to identify the underlying causes for oral decay.  When it comes to dentistry, are you thinking holistically?

 

Miami Dentist Asks Patients About Heart Disease:  Are your teeth, gums, and heart connected?  You bet!  Join the Miami Dentist Blog for this exclusive on gum disease and heart disease.

 

What is Holistic Dentistry?:  The title says it all.  This article is a great overview of holistic dentistry for those who know very little on the subject.  A must-read!

A Miami Dentist and Twitter?

A great combination!  Follow the Dentist305 Twitter account for ongoing holistic health updates, new articles, and more!

 

(i) http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/230556.php

 

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Assure a Smile Exclusive: Potassium and Heart Health

Wednesday, July 13th, 2011

miami dentist exlusive sodium potassiumAs the center of the circulatory system, the heart is often hailed as one of our most vital organs.  Function would not be possible without this involuntary pump, which sends oxygenated blood throughout the body to facilitate everything from basic muscle movements to complex mental cognitions.  When it comes to extending the life of you heart, new research suggests that the mineral Potassium is just what the doctor ordered.

 

Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

As a Holistic Dentistry practice, Assure a Smile goes to great lengths to help patients stay on top of health news and medical research.  We believe that “staying in the know” is a critical component of making informed health decisions.  In this edition of the Miami Dentist Blog, we will explore new research that explains the role of Potassium in increasing overall heart health.

Sodium, Potassium, and the Heart

Yesterday, the Wall Street Journal reported on a study lead by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention that has been a whopping 15 years in the making.  Throughout the study, researchers followed over 12,000 participants and measured the diet and cardiovascular health of each.  In short, the study showed that (i):

 

1. High Sodium intake was associated with a higher rate of premature death from any cause, and

 

2. High Potassium intake was associated with a lower rate of premature death from any cause.

 

Researches took the study further, however, in an attempt to examine the specific relationship between sodium intake, potassium intake, and overall heart health.  They found that:

 

1. Sodium intake alone was not tied with higher premature death rates,

 

2. High Potassium intake was linked with a lower incidence of heart related fatalities, and finally

 

3. Consuming more Potassium than Sodium significantly reduced premature death.

The Sodium-Potassium Ratio

In the wake of the Center for Disease Control’s most recent findings, it is safe to assume that decreasing Sodium intake while increasing Potassium intake may help prevent the chances of developing high blood pressure, heart problems, and even premature death.

 

To do so, researchers suggest that adults reduce daily Sodium intake to about 2,300 milligrams (about a teaspoon of salt) while increasing Potassium intake to about 4,700 milligrams per day.  Some of the best sources for Potassium include:

 

Potatoes, 700-900 milligrams per serving

Spinach, 500 milligrams per each 100-gram serving

Prune Juice, 528 milligrams per 6 oz serving

Raisins, 598 milligrams per ½ cup serving

Bananas, 422 milligrams

Miami Dentist Blog Related Articles on Heart Health

Our Miami Dentistry Office has produced numerous online articles to help patients proactively increase their heart-healthiness.  The following articles are recommended for those patients interested in learning more about the health of the heart and the circulatory system from a holistic wellness perspective:

 

Holistic Dentistry Links Periodontitis with Heart Disease:  Periodontitis, better known as gum disease, is an infection that afflicts the gum tissue of the oral cavity.  Leading researchers say that the same bacteria that causes Periodontitis may also cause heart disease.

 

Holistic Wellness and Brown Rice:  The health benefits of brown rice are plentiful!  In this edition of the Miami Dentist Blog, read more about this healthy carbohydrate’s ability to reduce blood pressure.

 

A Heartfelt Plea for Mercury Filling Removal:  Dental amalgam, or traditional silver fillings, contain dangerously high levels of mercury.  Join the Miami Dentist Blog for this article on mercury poisoning and the cardiac system.

 

Miami Dentist Asks Patients About Heart Disease:  University of Minnesota Professor Mark Herzberg shares research with the American Association for the Advancement of Science on the link between gum disease and heart disease.

 

Dentistry News:  Brushing Habits Tied to Heart Health:  Are you brushing and flossing regularly?  If not, you may be placing your heart at risk!

 

(i) http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702304584404576440233075168872.html?mod=googlenews_wsj

 

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Danger: Fluoride May Cause Serious Illness

Wednesday, July 6th, 2011

danger fluoride may cause serious illnessA flurry of recent studies has Miami dental professionals—and their patients— concerned with the high concentration of fluoride in everything from tap water to toothpaste.  Formerly hailed as an anti-cavity treatment, fluoride has been added to public water supplies since the mid 1900s and reaches an estimated 300 million individuals worldwide (i).  Now, however, researchers are linking fluoride exposure with heightened incidence of serious side effects including abnormal brain development and Alzheimer’s disease.

 

Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

Fluoride is quickly becoming a concern for both Miami dentists and residents as growing research indicates that many individuals may be receiving highly toxic levels of the mineral.  The mineral was first added to American public water sources in the 1940s under the assumption that it would strengthen tooth enamel and reduce the occurrence of tooth decay.

Fluoride, Water, and Your Health

Fluoride is added to public drinking water at a ratio of 1 part-per-million, or ppm.  This means that each “part” fluoride is outnumbered by 1 million ”parts” of water.  Typically this equates to about 1 milligram of fluoride per quart of water (ii).

 

The 1 ppm standard is dangerous over time, however, according to research reported by the New York State Coalition Opposed to Fluoridation (NYSCOF).  Research states that ingesting water that contains 1 ppm fluoride may cause serious illnesses over the long haul, many taking up to 20 years to manifest (iii).

 

Researchers Valdez-Jimenez state “Fluoride is capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier, which may cause biochemical and functional changes in the nervous system,” (iv).  Studies have been conducted to further explore the effect of fluoride on the brain, and the results are alarming.  In animal studies, the side effects of fluoride trigger corresponding brain abnormalities that mirror those common to individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.

Fluoride Products:  Miami Dental Review

If the standard 1 ppm fluoride concentration of public drinking water can be toxic, then the following products seem downright deadly when ingested daily (v):

 

Fluoride toothpaste: about 1,000-1,500 ppm depending on the brand.  These products promise to strengthen tooth enamel with a fluoride-enriched formula.

 

Fluoride Mouth Rinse: about 200-900 ppm, available to children over 6 years in age.  Similar to toothpastes, fluoride mouth rinses claim to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay.

 

Fluoride Supplements: available in 1.0, 0.5, or 0.25 milligrams per serving.

 

Fluoride Gel/ Foam: as high as 12,000 ppm.

 

Fluoride Varnish: as high as 22,600 ppm.  Varnishes are typically applied by a dental professional directly onto the surface of the teeth and are not available through retail outlets.

Miami Dentist Blog:  Government Recommends Less Fluoride

The danger of fluoride-overload has been in the news for several months.  Our Blog cited the Wall Street Journal in January when reports of fluorosis in children reached a level of 41% between the years 1999 and 2004.  Having doubled since the 1980s, this new rate of fluorosis among children is a clear message to most health professionals that fluoride is too readily available and is being ingested in harmful concentrations.

Message the Miami Dentist Blog on Twitter!

What do you think about this new research?  Message the @Dentist305 Twitter account and share your thoughts on fluoride!  Are there any products of which you are unsure?  Join the conversation on Twitter and learn more about fluoride, fluorosis, and ways to prevent ingestion!

 

(i)  http://www.fluorideinfo.org/top10facts.html

(ii) http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-study-fluoride-can-damage-the-brain—avoid-use-in-children-124299299.html

(iii) See above.

(iv) See (ii)

(v) Data provided by http://www.cdc.gov/fluoridation/other.htm

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Miami Dentist Blog: Holistic Dentistry Explored

Wednesday, June 22nd, 2011

Miami Dentist Blog Holistic ExploredCan non-physical things like attitude, stress, and anxiety affect your overall health?  Yes, it certainly may, according to Miami holistic dentists and other health professionals.  Non-physical mental or emotional states often lead to the development of habits that have a profound impact on overall physical health.  Join the Miami Dentist Blog, for this special look at holistic dentistry and the benefit of looking at the big picture when assessing health.

 

Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

 

Holistic dentistry hinges on the idea that knowledge is power.  Specifically, holistic dentists believe that well educated patients make informed health decisions that lead to an overall healthy lifestyle.  Such patients are far less likely to experience serious oral hygiene problems because they understand the big picture.  Holistic dentistry patients understand that many things contribute to physical health, including stress management, emotional well being, and exercise.  Though none of these elements of a healthy lifestyle directly affects oral health, they nevertheless have an indirect impact on the teeth and gums.

 

Holistic Dentistry:  Non-physical Affecting the Physical

 

To illustrate how the non-physical often impacts the physical, let us imagine an individual who suffers from anxiety and stress.  Though anxiety and stress have no direct impact on physical health, they ultimately cause unhealthy behaviors that compromise overall wellness.  An individual who suffers from high amounts of stress, for example, may seek the comfort of certain foods that help to curb stress.  Sugary candies and chocolate would be this individual’s first choice as each triggers a temporary endorphin release in the brain, causing the individual to “feel good” for a short period of time.  Despite the short-term benefit, sugary foods may trigger specific physical health problems like weight gain and tooth decay.  The short-term benefit of “feeling good” is far outweighed by the long term downfalls of weight gain and tooth decay, two serious developments that may lead to other serious illnesses.

 

In much the same way, an individual who suffers from anxiety is prone to develop certain habits that lead to decreased physical health.  For example, it is a common medical fact that anxiety causes tension.  Individuals with anxiety may become excessively tense over time and develop teeth grinding or clenching habits.  Clenching and grinding are two symptoms of bruxism, a dental condition that eventually leads to a destruction of tooth enamel.  Once weakened, the teeth are more susceptible to tooth decay and irritation.

 

Holistic Dentistry and Wellness

Understanding how non-physical things like stress and anxiety manifest themselves as physical conditions is the first step in developing holistic health awareness.  The human body is an intricately connected system in which each part is affected by the next.  Understanding the cause of the problem—often times a non-physical thing—helps patients to correct the problem to hedge against future damage.  An individual who understands that they suffer from stress and a consequential poor diet, for example, is empowered to make a change.  He or she may choose to seek the soothing comfort of daily yoga practice or meditation to reduce stress, saving their bodies from the destructive side effects of poor nutrition.

 

Do you practice holistic health management?  If so, we’d love to hear your advice on managing stress and anxiety!  Join the conversation by logging on to Twitter and send a Tweet to the @Dentist305 Twitter account!  To learn more about holistic dentistry, you may contact Assure a Smile to schedule an appointment and wellness consultation with one of our professionals today!

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Miami Invisalign: Preventing Tooth Decay and Gum Disease

Wednesday, June 15th, 2011

Miami Invisalign Prevents Tooth DecayDo you fear that a Miami Invisalign treatment may give you tooth decay?  It is true:  patients who wear Orthodontic treatments, those things we call braces, are more likely to develop tooth decay than are patients without braces.  What’s more, individuals who develop tooth decay while wearing braces are particularly susceptible to developing gum disease!  The Invisalign Invisible Braces system greatly reduces the chances of developing both tooth decay and gum disease, however, giving Miami residents one more reason to love the Invisalign treatment system.

 

Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

Orthodontic treatments, or braces, are very common among both children and adults.  This is because both children and adults may experience teeth alignment issues as they grow and age.  There are many schools of thought on this subject, and a growing number of medical professionals are linking irregular teeth development with diet and lifestyle.

 

Whatever the reason, it is important to realize you are not alone!  There are an estimated 5 million Americans who are currently straightening their teeth (i).  More and more individuals are realizing the benefits of a beautiful smile.  In fact, the following A-lister celebrities have had a braces treatment of some kind since 2002 (ii):

  • Tom Cruise
  • Danny Glover
  • Gwen Stefani
  • Alyssa Milano

One major problem, however, is that braces often lead to tooth decay.  Tooth decay, in turn, increases a patient’s chances of developing gum disease.  This is an important issue, and not just because patients don’t like getting cavities!  Gum disease has been linked with other serious illnesses like heart disease and anemia.  This has Miami residents wondering:  is there a way to straighten my teeth without increasing my chances of developing tooth decay, gum disease, and other serious illnesses?

Miami Invisalign:  A Removable Solution That Prevents Tooth Decay

Invisalign in Miami has become more popular over the past decade because it offers a removable teeth-straightening solution.  The main benefit of Invisalign is that the system uses clear plastic aligners to gently shift the teeth into parallel alignment.  While a majority of professionals offer Invisalign because the system’s aligners are clear and inconspicuous, a growing number of Miami dentists are recommending the treatment because it helps patients keep their teeth and gums clean.

 

Invisalign offers convenience to patients.  Individuals who wear Invisalign have the ability to remove their “braces” (really, they are aligners that resemble thin mouth trays for both the upper and lower teeth).  Removing Invisalign aligners to eat a meal, a snack, or prior to brushing and flossing gives patients two advantages over those with metal braces.  First, the patient is free to eat normally.  This means that sharp metal brackets will not agitate their cheek and gum tissue; more importantly, it means food will not get stuck in the tiny spaces between braces brackets, wiring, the teeth, and the gum line.  This greatly reduces the possibility of developing tooth decay, as fewer food particles are left wedged throughout the teeth and gums to fuel the creation of plaque and bacteria.

 

Second, Invisalign patients are free to remove their aligners to brush and floss as if they were not wearing braces at all.  In this way, patients are able to clean their teeth thoroughly.  The likelihood that a patient will miss bacteria-causing food particles is greatly reduced, and the chances of developing tooth decay and gum disease are consequently reduced as well.

Miami Residents:  Do You Wear Invisalign?

Are you a Miami Invisalign patient?  We would love to hear your thoughts on the Invisible Braces system!  Send a Tweet to the Dentist305 Twitter account and share your experience with Assure a Smile!

 

(i) http://www.neatorama.com/2011/05/05/biting-facts-about-braces/

(ii) http://www.bodycare.becomegorgeous.com/top_to_toe/celebrities_wearing_braces-1064.html

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Miami Invisalign Treatment in 2011

Friday, June 10th, 2011

Miami Invisalign 2011 Miami Invisalign professionals encourage patients to consider an Invisible braces system over traditional metal models.  The new braces system uses two clear aligners that are designed to fit snugly over the patient’s teeth, gradually shifting teeth into beautiful alignment.  But why choose Invisalign over traditional metal braces?  Professionals say Invisalign offers comfort, confidence, and real results to patients in search of a inconspicuous means of straightening their teeth.

 

Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

Miami dentists recommend teeth straightening treatments to patients for many reasons, most of all to increase patient happiness and health.  To illustrate, consider a 2008 study of nearly 10,000 Australian residents that researchers say indicates “Everything else being equal, if you are happy and satisfied with your life now, you are more likely to be healthy in the future,” (i).

 

As a Miami dental professional, I recommend Invisalign to my patients because it is a minimally invasive, comfortable, and effective dental treatment.  What’s more, the removable nature of Invisalign allows patients to clean their teeth thoroughly.  This convenience helps to reduce tooth decay among Invisalign patients, which is particularly important in a world where nearly half the population skips out on nightly teeth and gum care (ii).

 

Most importantly, however, I recommend Invisalign to help patients create smiles of which they are proud to show.  Over 75% of Americans are embarrassed to smile, yet nearly 80% of Americans know that smiling is intricately tied with overall health (iii).

Comparing Invisalign to Metal Braces

Assure a Smile has created the following list to compare Invisalign Invisible braces to traditional metal ones to assist patients in finding an ideal teeth-straightening solution.

 

Invisalign aligners are made of clear plastic.  For patients, this gives two major benefits over traditional metal braces.  First, clear braces give patients confidence through every day life.  You may wear Invisalign and rest assured that most others won’t notice that you are straightening your teeth!  Moreover, clear plastic aligners are more comfortable to wear than are metal braces.  Invisalign patients do not have to worry about sharp metal edges and wiring agitating the delicate areas of their inner mouth.

 

Invisalign is removable.  Again, this gives patients two direct benefits.  First, patients may remove their Invisalign aligners when eating.  This adds comfort and familiarity to mealtime, eliminating the annoyance of food particles becoming wedged throughout traditional braces.  A second benefit results:  patients are able to more easily maintain oral hygiene while using Invisalign.  Individuals may remove Invisalign aligners to brush and floss their teeth as normal.  Patients with metal braces, on the other hand, must buy unique tools to help them carefully clean around brackets, wires, and soft gum tissue.

Invisalign in Miami:  Many Problems, One Solution

The Miami Dentist Blog has covered several specific conditions that Invisalign may solve for patients.  We will review them here, as well as provide links to prior articles that explain these conditions in-depth.

 

Miami Invisalign Treatment for Overcrowded Teeth:  Most common in children, overcrowded teeth are those that grow close to one another and overlap.

 

Bring Teeth Closer Together with Invisalign:  There are several reasons that explain why an individual may develop spaces between their teeth.  Read about them here, and discover how Invisalign helps to close the gaps.

 

Consult Miami Invisalign Providers for Crossbite Treatment:  A Cross-bite is created when teeth are irregularly spaced horizontally.  Invisalign may help to correct this problem, offering a comfortable solution for misaligned teeth.

 

Treating an Overbite with Invisalign:  When the teeth of the upper jaw fall too far over those of the lower jaw, an overbite exists.  Patients are encouraged to read this article about overbites, Invisalign, and the creation of healthy smiles.

 

 

(i) http://www.webmd.com/balance/news/20080829/happiness-satisfaction-boosts-health

(ii) http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/227763.php

(iii) http://www.prweb.com/releases/Miami-dentist/Invisalign-Special/prweb5047924.htm

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Gluten Free Bread Recipe

Thursday, May 26th, 2011

Gluten Free Bread RecipeMiami dentists are beginning to see an increasing amount of patients concerned with gluten.  The question Is gluten bad for you? has received a lot of attention over the past year as health professionals and researchers continue to study this interestingly complex protein.  Holistic dentistry professionals see a link between gluten and tooth decay, a topic that will be covered in next week’s Miami Dentist Blog article.  Today, we set aside the questions and research surround gluten to instead focus on something fun:  a gluten free bread recipe!

 

Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

Is gluten a bad part of your diet?  In short, the answer is yes.  Recent research at the University of Maryland suggests that gluten may contribute to gastrointestinal distress for nearly 1 in 133 Americans (i).  What’s more, gluten was previously thought to have an adverse health effect on only 1 in 10,000 Americans.  Indeed, the gluten problem is one that has been underestimated, affecting many more individuals than previously anticipated.

 

However, “yes” is just the short answer.  Although an alarmingly high 1 in 133 Americans may be adversely affected by gluten, a remaining 130 or so individuals experience no negative side effect from gluten ingestion.  These individuals are not clear of danger, though, as gluten allergy may be developed over time.  As you may imagine, exploring the nature of gluten, gluten allergy, and the effect it has on the body is a discussion that is as long as it is interesting.  We will cover gluten in-depth next week on the Miami Dentist Blog, focusing today on a topic that many Assure a Smile patients have inquired about:  gluten free bread.

 

Bread is a food staple of Western culture.  Unfortunately, bread contains a high amount of gluten.  Gluten gives bread the soft, sponge-like texture that many of us enjoy.  Panera, Atlantic Bread Company, Einstein Bagels, and other cafes have capitalized on this guilty pleasure with the promise of daily fresh-baked bread, successfully positioning themselves to capture huge market segments from traditional fast-food chains.

 

There’s no doubt about it:  we love our bread.  Americans, especially, enjoy thick bread sandwiches, breaded down-South comfort foods, and the always-welcomed bread and butter appetizer that Western restaurants serve as a complementary start to most meals.

 

Regardless of whether you think gluten is bad or not, most individuals can benefit from reducing gluten intake.  That sacrifice, however, does not have to mean giving up on bread!

Gluten Free Bread Recipe

This gluten-free bread recipe yields about 3 large loaves.  Expect each loaf to weigh about 1 to 1.5 lbs.  This soft-textured bread derives a its sweetness from all-natural honey and vanilla ingredients,

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup brown rice flour
  • 1 cup tapioca starch/ tapioca flour
  • 3 ¾ cups cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons granulated yeast
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons xanthan gum
  • 2 ½ cups milk
  • 1 cup honey
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup neutral-flavored oil
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
  • Egg wash, 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for brushing loaf prior to baking)
  • Raw sugar (for sprinkling atop as crust)

 

Preparation:

  1. Mix together flour, tapioca starch, cornstarch, yeast, salt, and xanthan gum in a 5-quart mixing bowl.  Note:  use whisk for thorough mixing.
  2. Combine all liquid ingredients and mix them, gradually, into the dry ingredients from above.  Note:  mix until there are no signs of flour.  May require the use of a 14 cup food processor and dough mixing attachment.
  3. Cover mixing bowl and leave to rest at room temperature for 2 hours.  Note:  do not make covering air-tight.
  4. Dough may be used immediately, or you may cover and use within 5 days.  When storing, leave covered and place in refrigerator.

 

When Baking:

  1. Grease either a brioche pan or a 8 ½ by 4 ½ nonstick loaf pan.
  2. Use wet hands to break off a small piece, about 1 ½ lbs in weight.  Shape in to ball, and remember that this dough need not be stretched prior to baking—it contains no gluten!
  3. Elongate the ball into a narrow oval and place in the center of the baking pan.  Cover loosely with plastic wrap and allow dough to rest.  Note:  allow dough to rest for 90 minutes if refrigerated, 40 minutes if fresh.
  4. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  5. Brush the loaf’s top crust with egg wash and sprinkle with raw sugar.
  6. Place loaf in the center of the oven and bake for approximately 40 to 45 minutes.  Note:  loaf is down baking when caramel brown and firm.
  7. Remove from oven.  Cool on baking rack prior to serving.
  8. Enjoy with all-natural peanut butter, jam, or with some of your favorite foods!

Gluten Free Bread:  Tweet About It

Have you tried our gluten free bread recipe?  If so, message the Dentist305 Twitter account and tell us about it! You may also share this article on Facebook by clicking the “Like” button at the top of this page!

(i) http://www.care2.com/greenliving/is-gluten-bad-for-you.html#

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Miami Dentistry News: Dental Needs Among Children Are Growing

Friday, May 20th, 2011

miami-dentistry-news-dental-needs-children

Our Miami dental practice is fully committed to helping children develop strong oral hygiene habits at an early age.  Studies show that good brushing habits, for example, significantly reduce the chances of developing serious illnesses like heart disease.  Good habits start at an early age, however.  Young children with good hygiene habits grow in to young adults with strong and healthy smiles.  But is this happening?   According to recent research, it is not.  In fact, recent research indicates that over 80% of the Los Angeles area’s children are in need of immediate dental care (i).

Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

The results are in, and they are alarming.

 

Over 2,000 children of migrant or minority families in the Los Angeles area were surveyed recently by dental professionals from the University of Southern California (USC).  Of the children surveyed, over 70% had dental caries while an overwhelming 81% were in need of general dental care (ii).  This signals an overwhelming rise in substandard oral hygiene among individuals at a very early age.

 

This lack in proper hygiene is emphasized by USC Associate Dean Dr. Roseann Mulligan.  Dr. Mulligan explains that over half of the children examined already had already received fillings, crowns, or some kind of dental procedure.  Despite already having received care, about 72% were found to need additional dental work.  About 9% of children had an oral health condition that required attentive treatment within 24 hours.

 

“It is not enough to repair the destruction caused by the disease process of tooth decay,” Dr. Milligan explains.  “We must work harder at preventing it,” (iii).

Holistic Dentistry:  Proactive Prevention

Assure a Smile echoes Dr. Milligan’s words of caution.  We must work harder to spread awareness for the importance of proactive health care.  This includes oral hygiene, dietary awareness, and any other activity that contributes to increasing overall mind and body wellness.  Of course, this requires the formation of good habits.

 

Many people fail to consider that forming a new habit requires breaking an old one.  This can be extremely challenging, especially when it comes to oral hygiene.  With this in mind, we can safely say that helping young people to develop good oral hygiene habits is critical in helping them preserve their teeth for life.  The Miami Dentist Blog assembled an easy guide to help parents achieve this end, titled National Childrens Health Month.  In summary, a few tips include:

 

1) Early enforcement of good habits

Good habits start during infancy when parents clean their child’s mouth and gum area with a soft bristled toothbrush and water.

 

2) Continue enforcement

Continued enforcement of good habits is crucial in their becoming well-rooted ways of life.  This includes daily brushing, flossing, and healthy snacking.

 

3) Provide ongoing reward and punishment

Reward and punishment systems are critical in creating motivation to learn and maintain good habits.

Miami Dentistry:  Find Us on Twitter

If you are as surprised with Dr. Mulligan’s findings, message the Dentist305 Twitter account and share your thoughts!  Assure a Smile will field questions, concerns, and other thoughts on how to best approach the subject of oral hygiene.  Together, we can help spread awareness for oral and holistic health!

 

(i) http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/224534.php

(ii)  See above.

(iii)  See above.

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Miami Dentistry News Update: Gum Disease May Cause Anemia

Monday, May 9th, 2011

miami-dentistry-news-gum-disease-may-cause-anemiaThe Miami Dentist Blog has covered the relationship between oral health and wellness extensively.  We’ve explored studies that previously have shown gum disease to increase risk of heart disease.  We’ve also discussed the importance of holistic stress management, and the ways it helps to strengthen immunity to disease and overall health.  Now, recent research shows a possible connection between gum disease and the blood disorder anemia.  It is alarming, providing yet another word of caution to patients who do not take care of their teeth and gums on a daily basis.

 

Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

The dangerous nature of gum disease is in the news again.  This time, researchers in Britain say gum disease triggers chronic inflammation that may significantly contribute to decreased red blood cell count, or anemia.  The study has been published in the Journal of Periodontology at the end of this past April, reigniting interest in gum disease and its effect on the rest of the body.  Findings show that patients with chronic gum disease exhibit red blood cell counts significantly below normal levels (i).

 

Further investigation points an accusatory finger at inflammation, or swelling.  Gum tissues become swollen, and often times bloody, in response to the influx of bacteria caused by gum disease.  Inflammation of the gums causes a drop in erythropoietin production, a hormone primarily responsible for controlling red blood cell production (ii).  Red blood cell production decreases, leading to the development of anemia in individuals with gum disease.

Miami Dentist Cautions Patients to Get Proactive

Of course, the best way to avoid both chronic gum disease and the serious illnesses it can trigger is to get proactive!  No—we are not talking face wash here.  We are talking about actively taking care of your teeth and gums, rather than re-actively brushing harder after your dental exam uncovers a few cavities (Side note:  Never brush ‘hard.’  While tooth enamel is incredibly strong, your gums are not.)

 

Proper tooth and gum care include the following:

 

Proper nutrition: Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to satiate hunger and help suppress your natural sweet tooth.  Eating fewer sugary foods means there’s less to clean off your teeth, a win-win in terms of overall wellness and proactive oral hygiene.

 

Regular brushing: Individuals should brush their teeth twice each day, at a minimum.  Some may find it beneficial to brush a third time at mid-day, cleaning food debris from the teeth and gums following lunch or late-afternoon snacks.

 

Flossing: This is perhaps the most underappreciated and under practiced of all oral hygiene acts.  Flossing extracts the food particles that regular brushing cannot.  Failing to do so prompts the growth of plaque, bacteria, tooth decay, and gum disease.  It’s a slippery slope, so be sure to floss daily!

Holistic Dentistry:  Looking at the Big Picture

Holistic dentistry is characterized by its belief in the interconnected nature of the human body.  The oral cavity in particular plays a vital role in the delivery of oxygen, water, and other nutrients to the rest of the body.  In this way, the health of tooth and gum tissues tells a story about the overall health of the body.  Signs of poor hygiene, stress, and destructive habits are reflected through the mouth.  Holistic dental professionals are highly educated in identifying and diagnosing such signs, arming them with knowledge to help patients regain control of their health.

 

Schedule an appointment with Assure a Smile and learn firsthand how a holistic dental exams differ from traditional check ups.  Take advantage of our New Patient Cleaning Special and receive a full TMJ scan, professional teeth cleaning, dental x-rays, digital photos, and a comprehensive one-on-one holistic wellness consultation.

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Miami Dentistry with the iTero Scanner

Thursday, May 5th, 2011

miami-dentistry-with-the-itero-scannerMiami dental professionals have the advantage of practicing medicine in a hub for international research and technological innovation.  Often referred to as the Gateway to the Americas, the city of Miami is home to leading medical professionals and organizations from around the world.  The medical industry in Miami is exciting and fast paced, exposing local professionals to the latest and greatest high-tech toys.  This Miami dentist office is excited to introduce the newest member of the Assure a Smile family:  The iTero Scanner.

 

Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

The iTero Scanner represents an exciting achievement in modern dentistry.  Convenient, comfortable, and incredibly accurate, the iTero Scanner is capable of creating a digital “map” of the mouth to help dental professionals serve patients more effectively.  This digital map can be used to create crowns, bridges, in-lays, and more with nearly flawless precision that makes for a comfortable fit every time.  The iTero Scanner has also revolutionized the way dental impressions are taken:

 

Out with the Old

Traditionally, taking impressions of a patient’s oral cavity is time consuming and uncomfortable.  It required clenching large metal trays of liquid plaster against both upper and lower jaw, with extra liquid plaster spilling over the impression trays and into the patient’s mouth.  This part of the process was most uncomfortable, with many patients feeling anxious over the danger of gagging, swallowing, or choking on the excess plaster “goop.”

 

In with the New

Patients no longer have to endure the discomfort and anxiety of old impression-taking methods.  The iTero Scanner takes digital images of the oral anatomy of the mouth, eliminating the need for liquid plaster entirely.  Patients may watch as these images are gathered on the in-office computer display, gaining insight on the structure of their teeth and gums like never before.

 

After the iTero Scanner gathers images of the entire oral cavity, the images are used to construct a 3-dimensional landscape of the patient’s oral cavity with unparalleled detail and accuracy.

 

Patients may now sit comfortably while their dental professional takes digital images of their teeth and gums, one section of the mouth at a time.  Patients may break from the procedure periodically to rest, if they choose to do so, and pick up right where they left off.  All in all, the scan takes only 5 minutes!

Frequently Asked Questions About the iTero Scanner*

What does the name “iTero” mean?

The word “iTero” is Latin in origin and means “to repeat.”  Align Technology Corporation, the proprietors of this revolutionary new device, coined this name to symbolize its ability to exactly replicate the oral anatomy of a patient’s mouth.

 

Is receiving a dental impression from the iTero Scanner comfortable?

Absolutely.  Studies conducted with patients indicate that iTero scans are more comfortable and less time consuming than traditional impression methods.  With the iTero Scanner, there is no need for a patient to clench cold metal trays in their mouth for long and uncomfortable periods of time.  Instead, the patient simply opens their mouth as if they were receiving a typical examination.  Digital images are taken of each section of the upper and lower jaw area.  Once those images are recorded, the patient may relax!  The iTero computer software will finish the impression process by constructing a precise replica of their unique oral anatomy.

 

Why would a dental professional choose to use the iTero Scanner over traditional impression trays?

It’s all about precision.  The iTero Scanner uses advanced digital imaging technology to create a map of the tooth and gum tissues of the mouth that is much more accurate than traditional impression methods.  This helps to create crowns, bridges, and surface in-lays that fit almost perfectly within the patient’s natural tooth and gum landscape.

 

Are patients exposed to radiation during the iTero digital impression?

No, the iTero Scanner does not emit any radioactive waves whatsoever.  Rather, the scanner uses visible light to take digital images.

 

 

*iTero FAQ courtesy of http://www.cadent.biz/itero/itero.php?section=Patient&page=FAQs

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