Posts Tagged ‘Holistic Dentistry 305’

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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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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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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: Eat Healthy for Healthy Teeth

Tuesday, March 22nd, 2011

miami-dentist-eating-for-healthy-teeth

Growing up you always heard about all of the things to avoid eating to keep your teeth healthy.  Candy will rot your teeth.  Gum is bad for your teeth.  Soda destroys your enamel.  Well, there is a flipside to the conversation.  Have you ever heard about what to eat for better dental health?  Today this Miami Dentist is going to continue coverage of National Nutrition Month with some insight on foods that will help create healthy teeth and gums for life.

 

 

Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

As a holistic dentistry practice, it is our belief that certain lifestyle changes increase oral health.  By adjusting our diet, we can reduce tooth decay and give our mouths a fighting chance of retaining our teeth throughout our lives.  Take a moment to review the following foods, and note how they benefit the teeth and gums in particular.

As always, please message feedback to our @dentist305 Twitter account!

What to Eat for Healthy Teeth

Citrus Fruits: You should be consuming lots of fruits that are high in vitamin C.  Vitamin C is extremely important for your dental health because it holds together the collagen network of your gums.   When this network falls apart, your gums become tender and vulnerable to periodontal disease.  Look for foods like strawberries, kiwis, and oranges.

 

Apples:  The tart flavor of apples causes an increased flow of saliva.  The saliva rinses away bacteria and keeps your mouth moist.

 

Vegetables:  Most vegetables are high in vitamin A.  This vitamin is responsible for the formation of tooth enamel.  This is obviously important to you dental health.  You can find a good amount of vitamin A in carrots, brussels sprouts, peas, pumpkins, spinach, and broccoli.  The crunchy vegetables have an added benefit of cleansing and stimulating your gums.

 

Dark Chocolate:  I’m sure you’ve always been told to avoid sweets for the sake of your dental health.  However recent studies have shown that dark chocolate has chemicals in it that fight plaque buildup.  If you are going to eat dark chocolate, do so in small portions and opt for at least 80% cocoa.

 

Milk and Yogurt: Getting enough calcium is important for strong teeth and bones.  Unsweetened milk and/or yogurt can boost your calcium levels for healthy teeth.  The low acidity and low sugar properties of milk and yogurt help to slow tooth decay as well.

 

Cheese: Another milk product chock full of calcium.  Cheese balances the pH levels in your mouth, fights bacteria in your teeth and gums, rebuilds tooth enamel, and produces saliva.

 

Green Tea: Green tea contains substances called catechins that kill the bacteria in your mouth that cause bad breath and is responsible for turning sugar into plaque.  Some green teas even contain fluoride which prevents tooth enamel decay.

 

Sesame Seeds:  These seeds help by naturally scrubbing the plaque off of your teeth and contain high amounts of calcium.

 

Water:  Water keeps your gums hydrated, washes away food particles stuck in your teeth, and helps stimulate saliva.  Saliva is your body’s strongest defense against the bacteria that threaten your dental health.

Foods That Are Bad for your Teeth

Just as a refresher, let’s review the most harmful foods for teeth and gum health:

 

Sugary Candies:  The bacteria that forms plaque uses sugar as its energy source.  Don’t feed this bacteria!  If you are going to have a sweet, avoid candies that last a long time in your mouth (caramels, cough drops, lollipops).

 

Starchy Foods:  Foods like breads and potato chips have a habit of getting stuck in the back of your teeth.  Bacteria in your mouth can use these carbohydrates as an energy source as well.

 

Soft Drinks:  Soft drinks are almost always loaded with sugar.  The phosphoric and citric acids also do a number on your tooth enamel.

 

Lemons:  The acidity in a lemon is known to erode tooth enamel quickly.

 

Alcohol:  Alcohol has plenty of sugars and also dries out your mouth.

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Teeth Grinding

Wednesday, March 2nd, 2011

miami-dentist-teeth-grindingTeeth grinding is most common among children.  However, grinding teeth is also a problem faced by many adults.  This habit, referred to as bruxism by medical professionals, involves the grinding and clenching of both the jaws and teeth.


Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

Holistic dentists and medical professionals are increasingly concerned with the prevalence of teeth grinding among both children and adults.  Grinding of the teeth is common among children; however, this habit can be detrimental to overall health if it persists.

What Causes Teeth Grinding?

Several things contribute to the formation of this habit.  Typically, teeth grinding is an unconscious attempt to reshape the alignment of teeth.  This is most evident in children because baby teeth tend to be misaligned.  Other causes include:

  • Stress. Many health professionals feel that stress is the number one cause of teeth grinding.  These professionals feel that grinding of one’s teeth is a means of de-stressing.
  • Anger suppression. Other health professionals feel that teeth grinding is a method of anger suppression.  Just as one may clench a fist when angry, so too may they clench their jaw.
  • Aggression. Another widely held view is that individuals clench their jaw and grind their teeth as an unconscious way of intimidating another individual.  This view holds that teeth grinding is a byproduct of showing aggression.
  • Misalignment of Teeth. This view, most common among Miami dentists and other dental professionals, holds that individuals grind their teeth because they simply do not fit together comfortably.  Individuals who undergo dental procedures that leave their teeth misshapen or uneven may grind them into alignment slowly, often in their sleep.

Effect on Overall Health

Teeth grinding may cause several health problems because it involves a large portion of the overall head area, specifically the teeth and jaw.  Headaches are a common side effect of persistant teeth grinding.  However, this link is not quite clear because stress may be the underlying reason for teeth grinding, headache, or both.  Individuals who grind their teeth habitually may also develop pain in their facial muscles.  TMJ disorders are also likely to develop in patients who exhibit periods of prolonged teeth grinding.  Most importantly, consistent teeth grinding will damage tooth structure.  Those who grind their teeth slowly destroy the outer enamel of the tooth.  Once destroyed, teeth become particularly susceptible to plaque formation and decay.


As a Miami dental professional, I strongly urge adults to stay aware of teeth grinding and the damage it causes.  Parents are smart to talk openly with children about grinding of teeth, as the habit typically forms at an early age and becomes more difficult to break over time.

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TMJ Symptoms

Wednesday, February 16th, 2011

miami-dentist-tmj-symptomsTMJ is a painful condition that may significantly inhibit one’s ability to chew, bite, and even hear.  Many body tissues may be affected by the condition, including muscles, nerves, tendons, ligaments, and teeth.  The teeth, particularly, may have a strong affect on the development of the disorder, making TMJ an area of special interest for holistic dentists.  This article is a basic overview of the disorder, its symptoms, and treatment options.


Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

Temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ, can be an extremely painful condition.  TMJ disorder is actually a broad term used to describe several different conditions.  Each condition, however, relates to the swelling of the temporomandibular joint.  This joint connects the mandible, or jaw, to the skull.  The disorder may be characterized by either an acute or chronic inflammation of the joint, resulting in discomfort ranging from mild to severe.

Several factors may contribute to the formation of TMJ.  Often times, the temporomandibular joint is strained due to excessive lateral movement.  For example, an individual may experience TMJ resulting from experiencing trauma that causes that jaw to slide laterally in an abrupt and forceful manner.  Other times, TMJ may develop slowly over time due to a misalignment of teeth.

On the Lookout:  TMJ Symptoms

TMJ symptoms come in a variety of forms.  Patients with TMJ typically experience some of the following:

- Pain throughout the neck and shoulder area

-  Perception of sounds that do not actually exist (Tinnitus)

-  Decreased ability to either open or close the jaw

- Migraine headaches, particularly in the early hours of the morning

- Partial or total loss of hearing

- Headache

- Earache

- Dull aches and pains in the facial region

- A clicking or popping noise when opening or closing the mouth

- Discomfort while biting or chewing

TMJ Treatment

Dentistry professionals have a long history of helping TMJ patients because of their knowledge of the jaw, teeth, and surrounding connective tissue.  At Assure a Smile, patients receive a full TMJ scan as part of a comprehensive holistic dentistry teeth cleaning and consultation.

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Dentistry News: Brushing Habits Tied to Heart Health

Wednesday, February 2nd, 2011

miami-dentist-news-brushing-habits-heart-health Dentists in Miami have written many articles on gum disease, heart disease, and the link the two diseases share.  According to research, those with gum disease are place at higher risk of developing heart problems than are those without gum disease.  Now, it seems, the problem may start well before gum disease takes shape.  New research indicates that your habit of brushing may significantly affect your chances of developing serious heart disease.


Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

Holistic dentistry is beginning to see some of the spotlight when it comes to new age medicine and research.  Bodies of evidence are mounting, indicating that each of our body systems is connected.  The role of the mind and the affect it has over physical health is just one example of this school of thought.  Another example is the connection between the mouth and the rest of the body.  The mouth is a gateway, providing easy entryway for disease and bacteria alike.  A new study from the University College London asserts that teeth brushing is an important piece of this equation, significantly lowering the chance of serious disease among those who brush their teeth regularly.

Miami Dentists Look at Oral Hygiene

If the mouth is the gateway through which bacteria and disease may enter the body, then oral hygiene is a critical factor in determining overall health.  Bad oral hygiene leads to many different health problems.  Most dental patients are aware of the most common:  cavities.  Cavities result from an excessive accumulation of plaque on the surface of teeth.  This plaque allows acid-producing bacteria to grow on the teeth, slowly eating away at the enamel of the tooth over time.  In this light, bacteria is one of the most harmful foreign agents that may enter the mouth.


Bacteria accumulation may cause more than cavities, however.  The 150th meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science declared a potential correlation between the bacteria that causes gum disease and the bacteria that causes heart disease.  The bacteria, according to research, seemed to be identical.  In other words, the same bacteria that causes gum disease may travel from the oral cavity to other major organs by way of the bloodstream and cause serious illnesses.  When the bacteria reach the heart, for example, it may cause swelling that contributes to artery blockage and heart disease.


This new research places added emphasis on the importance of sound oral hygiene.  Brushing and flossing are more than just ways to prevent cavities.  Keeping your mouth clean is proving to be instrumental in maintaining long term health and wellness.

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Holistic Wellness Requires Detoxing!

Thursday, January 20th, 2011

miami-dentist-holistic-wellness-requires-detoxingThe Miami Dentist Blog has covered heavy metal toxins before.  These metallic chemicals are everywhere, and we ingest them more frequently then we think.  To make matters worse, heavy metals accumulate in the body.  Over time, this accumulation may lead to serious health conditions.


Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

Holistic dentistry is thought of as people dentistry.  The idea that a patient is a complex, interconnected puzzle is at the very core of the holistic approach to dentistry.  Not surprising, this approach involves an assessment of the nutrients an individual ingests.  The things we eat have a profound impact on the overall wellness of our bodies, an impact that extends far beyond the teeth and gums.

It is important to remain attentive to the foods we eat.  Unfortunately, heavy metal toxins are abundant in the water and processed foods we consume most often.  This is bad:  heavy metals are being linked to serious illness.  With increased exposure to heavy metals comes an increased risk of developing lung cancer, impaired respiratory system, anemia, liver damage, and stomach or intestinal irritation (i).

Holistic Dentistry Guide to Heavy Metals

The first step in limiting exposure to heavy metals is to know what they are and where they come from.  Three of the most common heavy metals include aluminum, lead, and mercury.  Assure a Smile has posted this quick reference guide to help you identify these metals in their most common forms (ii):


Aluminum

Aluminum is a chemical element of the Earth’s crust.  It is most recognizable in the kitchen; sold in rolls, aluminum foil is often used to cover food before refrigeration.  The material is also common in sporting goods like baseball bats and golf clubs.  However, this metal is also prevalent in a number of consumable goods including antiperspirants, milk, table salt, seasonings, American cheese, and bleached flour.


Lead

Lead is another one of the Earth’s natural elements.  This material is used in building construction, weights, and lead-acid batteries.  This metal is extremely dangerous and has been linked with nervous system and brain disorders.  What many people will find surprising, however, is how many sources of lead there are in our environment:  car exhaust, lead based paint, canned fruits and juices, and even toothpastes.


Mercury

Mercury is one of the most toxic materials of which we know.  Increased exposure to this material may cause serious illness as well as nervous system defects in developing babies.  Of great concern to holistic dentists is the use of mercury in dental amalgams.  Dental amalgam, or silver fillings, may be as much as 60% mercury.  Safe amalgam removal is highly recommended for patients who have this dangerous chemical in their teeth.


Once identified, these common sources of heavy metals can be avoided.  Limiting exposure to unfiltered drinking water, food seasonings, canned foods, and lead paint is the only way to safeguard against the development of serious illness.  Dental amalgam removal is further advised by holistic dentists to rid patients of a major source of heavy metal exposure, limiting long term health risk.



(i) http://www.tip2000.com/health/waterpollution.asp

(ii) Junger, Alejandro. “Appendix.” Clean. New York: HarperCollins, 2011. 292-93. Print.

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Give Your Love the Smile of Their Dreams

Saturday, January 15th, 2011

miami-dentist-give-smile-of-dreams-1The 60 degree chill may have come to rest over Miami, but warmth still burns as Valentine’s Day approaches!  February 14th is just around the corner; this year, consider giving the gift of beauty and confidence.  Beginning January 15th, Assure a Smile will offer the Valentine’s Invisalign Special, your chance to enroll yourself or a loved one in the clear braces system that has created over a million smiling faces nationwide!


Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

Our 2010 Miami Invisalign Special was a great success!  We are proud to welcome so many new patients to our practice, and we know you will enjoy your new smiles!  2010 may have ended, but our commitment to creating healthy and beautiful teeth is still alive.  Starting February 1st, new Invisalign patients will receive a special promotion:


$500 off Invisalign clear braces treatment, and a $500 credit towards a teeth whitening treatment upon Invisalign completion!


A jaw dropping, pure white smile is more affordable than ever this year, and just in time for Valentine’s Day.

Invisalign vs. Metal Braces

Many are hesitant to try Invisalign over traditional metal braces.  New technology usually causes apprehension; it is normal to hesitate.  After all, clear plastic aligners seem ineffective compared to heavy duty metal and wiring.  However, the company proudly boasts the creation of over a million smiles since its founding.  And it is easy to see why Invisalign is so popular.  The clear braces system offers many comforts that you simply do not receive when being treated with metal braces.  These include comfort, cleanliness, and effectiveness:


Comfort

Invisalign aligners are made of smooth, clear polyurethane plastic.  These durable mouth pieces are safe to place in your mouth and, best of all, they do not agitate the insides of your cheeks and gums.


Cleanliness

Invisalign aligners are removable, so you can brush and floss normally!  Simply remove the aligners in the morning, during the afternoon (if you brush in the afternoon), and in the evening to clean your teeth as usual.  The removable nature of Invisalign allows patients to completely clean the hard-to-reach areas of the teeth and gums with ease, decreasing the likelihood of developing excessive plaque and tooth decay during treatment.


Effectiveness

Many dentists, including myself, have seen patients achieve dramatic results with Invisalign.  For an additional professional opinion, we turn to Michael Ayzin, DDS.  Dr. Ayzin, a cosmetic dental professional operating in Orange County, California, reports that each patient he has treated with Invisalign has been “completely happy with their results,” (i).  Dr. Ayzin and myself are not alone.  Thousands of professionals  have helped patients nationwide to achieve the smile of their dreams with Invisalign.

Miami Invisalign Providers

Assure a Smile is a leader in providing Miami Invisalign services.  Our practice has a depth of experience in helping patients create healthy, beautiful smiles that breed confidence.  Beginning February 1st, take advantage of our Valentine’s Invisalign Special!  Don’t forget to Follow us on Twitter to keep in touch with future promotions and holistic health news!



(i) http://www.realself.com/question/does-invisalign-really-work

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Holistic Health Management

Friday, January 14th, 2011

miami-dentist-holistic-health-managementHolistic dentists and alternative health professionals have a common ground:  each sees the big picture.  Holistic health practitioners see the human body as one giant puzzle.  When disassembled, the puzzle is merely a pile of random pieces.  When assembled, however, the puzzle creates a picture that is in itself greater than any one piece.  In this way, holistic dentists and other alternative health professionals pay particular attention to patients’ mental, physical, and social needs, recognizing that each contributes to overall health.


Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

Holistic health is all about the big picture.  It asserts that human beings have certain needs, and these needs must be addressed with physical, mental, and social dimensions in mind.


Consider:  If you wake up in the morning with a bad head cold, can you be absolutely certain that it is because of a physical ailment?  Modern medicine has shown time and time again that sickness, like the common cold, can be caused by stress.  Individuals with high stress levels show signs of weak immune systems, making them particularly vulnerable to sickness.  Stress is the mental piece of the equation; sickness is the physical manifestation.  In other words, certain mental conditions may cause physical things to happen.


Holistic Dentistry

Holistic dentistry varies from traditional dentistry in the attention it pays to patients’ mental and social needs, in addition to the physical.  Traditional dentistry, on the other hand, focuses on the patients’ physical needs only.  For example:  a patient with a cavity needs a filling.  Traditional dentistry stops here, reacting to the physical problem only.

Holistic dental practices focus on the comprehensive big picture.  To illustrate, consider the same aforementioned patient with a cavity.  Holistic dentists will absolutely note a physical need—the patient needs a filling.  They go further, however, and dig into why the patient needs a filling.  Why has this patient developed plaque that has been untouched for so long that it had a chance to eat away at the enamel of their tooth?  More often than not, these questions are answered through the assessment of the patient’s mental and social needs.

Poor Oral Hygiene and Stress

One reason for poor oral hygiene may be stress.  To illustrate, consider that individuals with high stress levels seek various different comforts to alleviate that stress.  This can lead to excessive sugar intake, going to sleep without brushing and flossing, teeth grinding, and jaw clenching.  These things slowly break down tooth enamel, making teeth more susceptible to cavities.  Stress is just one example of a mental state that can alter a physical state.  Anxiety, paranoia, fear, and different emotions can likewise affect the physical being of a person.


To care for your oral health in the best way possible, consider visiting a holistic dental professional.  Holistic dental experiences are more comprehensive than traditional ones.  Cleanings at Assure a Smile, for example, provide a thorough insight into your specific oral conditions, including jaw bone density, mouth acidity, and more.  If you are interested in a more inclusive and insightful visit to the dentist, take advantage of our New Patient Cleaning Special and schedule a dental appointment online!

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