Posts Tagged ‘Miami Dentist Family Dentistry’

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Miami Dentistry News: Government Recommends Less Fluoride

Tuesday, January 11th, 2011

miami-dentist-news-government-recommends-less-fluorideIt’s nearly everywhere:  in our water, mouth rinses, and now toothpastes.  Fluoride has been the go-to chemical for cavity prevention for over 50 years.  Now, however, the Center for Disease Control warns that the chemical may be too prevalent.  Too much fluoride may lead to serious oral health problems including hidden caries and fluorosis.


Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

Miami dentists have warned patients of fluoride overload.  Our Miami Dentist Blog wrote of this issue in late November.  The article is titled Warning:  Too Much Fluoride and it serves as a good information source for further details on the effects of excessive fluoride intake.


The warnings have gone national; this weekend’s installment of the Wall Street Weekend Journal features an article on the harmful effects of excessive fluoride.  The Federal government now warns Americans that the mineral may cause fluorosis in young children, a condition whereby the enamel of the teeth becomes streaked with off-white discoloration.  This news is in light of a recent Center for Disease Control study conducted between 1999 and 2004.  The study found that a whopping 41% of children ages 12-15 exhibit signs of dental fluorosis.  This rate has nearly doubled since 1986, when levels were only about 23%.


Miami Dentistry Fluorosis FAQ

The Miami dentists at Assure a Smile have created the following Frequently Asked Questions guide to assist parents in learning more about fluorosis prevention:

What is fluorosis?

Fluorosis is a discoloration of tooth enamel.

What causes fluorosis?

Fluorosis is caused by excessive ingestion of the mineral fluoride.  The mineral is most readily available in unfiltered tap water, however, is becoming widely applied to a variety of dental products.

When is my child most at risk?

Children are most at risk around age 8.  This is a critical moment in the child’s life, as the permanent teeth are developing below the gums.

Am I at risk?

Survey your smile.  Those at risk of excessive fluoride intake will notice that their teeth have developed vertical, off-white colored streaks.  Also consider the frequency with which you use or consume the following:  tap water, fluoride supplements, fluoride mouth rinse, and fluoride enriched toothpaste.

What may I do to prevent fluorosis?

Limit your intake of fluoride.  Consider purchasing a water filtration device to remove the fluoride from your tap water.  Also, avoid toothpastes, supplements, and mouth rinses rich in fluoride.


Holistic dentists have been aware of the potential for fluoride overload for some time.  If you are searching for a dentist in Miami, you may wish to find a professional who takes the holistic approach to dentistry. 

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A Miami Dentist Recap: Healthiest Foods 2010

Friday, December 31st, 2010

miami-dentist-recap-healthiest-foods-2010Dentists in Miami are very concerned with the foods their patients eat.  For holistic dentists, food takes on even greater importance.  As the old adage tells us:  you get what you put in.


Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

Eating well balanced, nutrient packed meals pays benefits well beyond merely satisfying your hunger.  When you eat well, you feel well.  As 2010 draws to a close, let’s take a moment and reflect on the healthiest foods of the past year.  Some may look familiar, but take a closer look and you will find that the past year saw an increase in exotic foods that lead to better health.


  1. Salmon—salmon is a great source of both protein and healthy fats.  This heart-healthy food is recommended by the American Heart Association because it is rich in Omega 3 fatty acids.
  2. Soy—vegetarian, vegan, or plain meat-eater, soy is derived from soy beans and packed with nutrients like zinc, omega 3s, magnesium, and B vitamins.
  3. Green Vegetables—broccoli is the MVP of this food group, toting vitamins A and C, iron, calcium, and fiber.
  4. Acia Berries—2010 saw a surge in this exotic fruit, and it’s no secret why.  Acia berries are loaded with antioxidants (over 2x that of blueberries).  Antioxidants nutralize free radicals in the body, preventing cellular damage and leading to overall better health.
  5. Whole Grains—consume the recommended 4-5 servings of this food group each day and you’ll get an army of complex “good” carbohydrates, as well as vitamin B, E, magnesium, iron, and fiber.

Increasing the frequency with which you consume the above foods will better your overall health in several ways.  First, each of these foods contains a substantial amount of high quality calories, with the exception of green vegetables.  It is important to ingest plenty of calories throughout the day to minimize those late-night hunger pains that usually lead to sugary snacks.  Second, each of the above foods is rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, or omega 3 fatty acids.  These nutrients are essential in promoting longevity and vitality, helping your body to stay healthy.  Omega 3s, in particular, have the added benefit of lowering LDL, or bad cholesterol.


While seemingly out of place on the Miami Dentist Blog, nutrition information is nevertheless a cornerstone of dental education.  Holistic dentistry takes the approach that dental problems may actually be manifestations of other deeply rooted problems.  Often times, these problems stem from poor nutrition.  By taking the holistic approach and identifying causal factors, holistic dentists are better able to educate patients and ensure the problem does not persist.


To learn more about holistic dentistry and the perceived interconnectedness of the body, visit our interactive Meridian Tooth Chart.  There, you will find that each tooth is thought to be linked to specific organs, glands, and other body elements.

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A Miami Dental Concern: Cookies and Cavities

Sunday, December 26th, 2010

miami-dental-concerns-cookies-cavities

The only thing worse than receding holiday cheer is discovering you have a cavity in February!  It is not as uncommon as you may think.  The holidays bring family, friends, and sweet treats together for days on end.  High spirits overshadow daily routine, and you may find yourself taking a nap with a mouth full of cookies!  Take a moment to review the basics with Assure a Smile, and make a cavity free start in 2011.



Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

There are many reasons to let your oral hygiene suffer during the holidays.  Whether you are traveling, napping  after dinner, or overwhelmed with activities, finding a moment to care for your teeth and gums may seem impossible.  So, keep it simple!  Follow these 3 basic guidelines and help your teeth and gums stay healthy this winter.


Opt for Healthy Cookies

More than likely, you will not make it through the holidays without indulging your sweet tooth.  This is fine, but should be done with tact.  Choosing a healthy alternative to sweets is tough, especially when you are the guest.  When attending a dinner party, save the cookies and other desserts for after dinner.  This will ensure you eat only a couple, instead of ravenously devouring a village of helpless gingerbread men.

When hosting, remember that not everyone enjoys healthy sweets.  Prepare plenty of options using both traditional recipes and low sugar alternatives.  To illustrate, consider making a dozen or so sugar cookies with frosting and sprinkles.  Recreate that same recipe, but substitute applesauce for the sugar.  Lightly top them with non-fat vanilla yogurt, and enjoy!


Brush and Floss Regularly

It is all about the basics, especially when it comes to cavity prevention.  Brushing and flossing is the best way to remove the plaque from your teeth and protect from infection.  Flossing is particularly important; it takes only 48 hours for the food particles between your teeth to infect your gums.  Skip your nightly regiment twice in a row, and you may be in trouble.


Schedule a Dental Appointment for 2011

Start the new year with a dental appointment to make sure all is in order.  This should include a thorough dental cleaning, x-rays, and inspection by a licensed DMD.  Holistic dentistry practices may also include a TMJ scan, additional digital photographs, and additional dental education to arm you with the knowledge necessary to prevent future problems.


Don’t let your oral health suffer in the midst of this holiday season!  Be mindful of sugar intake, brush and floss as normal, and schedule a dental appointment with a local Miami dentist to make sure 2011 gets off to a good start!


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Holistic Holiday Wellness with 5 Power Foods

Thursday, December 23rd, 2010

miami-dentist-holistic-holiday-wellness

Are you eating enough power foods?  If you are feeling tired, sick, or unusually stressed, that answer may be no!  Eating power foods is easy, effective in boosting immunity to colds, and downright delicious!  Take a moment to review these power food recommendations from your local Miami dentist.


Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

Staying healthy through the winter is usually lost in the midst of holiday planning, gift giving, and travel.  Nevertheless, the combination of cold weather, natural stress, and poor diet makes this time of year ripe with infection.  This season, take a holistic approach to the holidays.  Anticipate getting run down before it happens, and safeguard against sickness by incorporating these 5 power foods in your diet!

Garlic

Yes, it makes your breath smell.  But this cooking-essential is packed with antioxidants to help your body fight the free radicals that lead to sickness.  Garlic is a natural anti-inflammatory, as well.

Suggested Use:  Chop garlic and sauté over medium heat in coconut oil.  Add onion, cooking until onion becomes clear.  Next, add broccoli, carrots, snap peas, or your favorite vegetables.  Cook until vegetables become tender.  And Voila!  This garlic vegetable medley goes well with chicken, beef, and pork entrees.

Broccoli

These tiny tree-like vegetables are a triple threat.  Loaded with naturally occurring vitamin A, C, and glutathione (a high powered antioxidant), broccoli is an absolute must this Holiday Season.

Suggested Use:  Sautee broccoli in garlic and coconut oil (see above).  Add egg whites, scrambling until all contents are cooked thoroughly.  The result:  a broccoli omelet with enough vitamins and antioxidants to power through the toughest December morning.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are more than just a great energy source.  These guys contain high concentrations of vitamin A and beta carotene, an antioxidant known for disarming malicious free radicals.

Suggested Use:  Rinse potato well in water.  Slice into thin circular disks.  Sautee in garlic and coconut oil (see above).  Serve as is, or combine with egg whites, peppers, and onion for a hearty potatoe-scramble.

Acai Berries

It’s hard to visit the grocery store without finding 101 different acai juices, nutrition bars, pills, or powders.  Acai berries are more than just a fad, however, containing overwhelming amounts of antioxidants per serving.  Opt for the whole berries, whenever possible.  This will give you the added benefit of consuming the berry’s skin and pulp, which is naturally rich in fiber.  If you cannot find whole berries, choose a quality Acai juice.

Suggested Use:  Consume 1 cup of whole berries, or a single 8 oz glass of juice, with breakfast and dinner.

Mushrooms

We saved the best for last.  Mushrooms are a necessity when it comes to building a strong immune system because they naturally have high amounts of B vitamins, niacin, and riboflavin.  Moreover, the selenium in mushrooms helps the immune system fight off viruses and bacteria.

Suggested Use:  Sautee mushrooms in garlic and coconut oil (see above).  Add your favorite vegetables, and serve over brown rice.

Don’t let the hectic Holiday Season get you run down.  Simple additions to your daily diet can fuel your body with the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants necessary to ward off infection and keep you healthy.  Happy Holidays, from this Miami dentist and Assure a Smile team!

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Miami Dentistry and Safe Mercury Removal

Thursday, December 9th, 2010

miami-dentistry-safe-mercury-removal Safe mercury removal is in the public spotlight.  With West Coast communities banning the use of toxic dental amalgam, patients nationwide are wondering:  Should I have my fillings replaced?


Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

Costa Mesas became one of the first communities in the United States to ban the use of dental amalgam in dentistry procedures last month.  Now, California policymakers hope to spread the legislation to other Orange County communities.  Their goal:  To trigger a domino effect that someday bans silver fillings and other uses of dental amalgam nationwide.

Why Ban Dental Amalgam?

Dental amalgam, known most commonly to patients as silver fillings, poses serious health risks to both patients and dentistry professionals.  The compound is considered highly toxic by most holistic dentistry professionals because it contains upwards of 50% mercury.  Mercury is a very toxic poison that is odorless and tasteless, making the chemical a nearly undetectable hazard.  The World Health Organization has spoken out of the dangers of dental amalgam use, warning that the fillings contribute more to mercury accumulation in the body than any other known source—combined (i).

Safe Mercury Removal

If you have silver fillings and wish to have them replaced, consult a local Dentist in Miami immediately.  Be sure to inquire about special techniques the practice employs to safeguard against accidental mercury ingestion.  Mercury removal can be safe, given proper safety precautions, including:

  • Using a dental dam to make sure dental amalgam is not swallowed
  • Proper disposal of mercury rich dental amalgam

Assure a Smile uses these precautions, as well as others, to ensure patient safety during mercury removal procedures.  Of particular importance is disposal:  Assure a Smile uses filtration devices to prevent mercury from entering the public water system.

The buzz surrounding this issue has many thinking safe mercury removal is merely a trend.  This is simply untrue.  Researchers the world over have been studying mercury, its harmful effects on the body, and its prevalence in dental amalgam.  The issue is just now garnering mainstream attention in the United States, thanks in part to Costa Mesas and their leading legislation.



(i)  http://www.dental–health.com/amalgam_fillings_mercury.html

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Waterlase Dentistry Miami: Comfortable, Convenient, Precise

Wednesday, November 17th, 2010

miami-dentist-waterlase-dentistryWhen we think of dental procedures, what typically comes to mind?  If you’re like most people, you think of drilling, jaw-shaking vibrations, and uncomfortable heat.  And you cringe.  However, times have changed.  Dentists in Miami, and professionals nationwide, are now employing exciting new technologies that provide the very same dental procedures with added comfort, convenience, and precision.  And patients couldn’t be happier.


Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

The laser has revolutionized medical procedures, offering a solution for most anything from tattoo removal to vision correction.  Dentistry has likewise benefited since the advent of the laser.  Waterlase Dentistry, for example, is a favorite among dental professionals when it comes to new technology.  Waterlase combines the gentle sensation of water with the precision of laser technology to deliver a means of plaque removal that most patients will find extremely comfortable.


Waterlase Dentistry has patients smiling for many reasons, including:

  1. Waterlase uses a combination of water bursts and a laser to perform many dental procedures, instead of high pressure drilling.
  2. Waterlase is minimally invasive, removing tooth decay without excessive pressure and heat.
  3. Because plaque is removed without excessive drilling, more of the tooth structure is left in tact, promoting superior oral health and longevity.
  4. Because Waterlase is gentle, patients require less anesthetic.  This means fewer needles, and fewer post-op numb lips.
  5. Waterlase technology has a wide range of applications including the removal of tooth enamel decay, bone, and gum tissue.


Comfortable, convenient, and precise, Waterlase technology has expanded the ability of Miami dentists to treat their patients.  Patients now receive comfortable and precise treatments from their family dentist, instead of being referred to another professional with whom they are unfamiliar.  Assure a Smile excitedly offers Waterlase Dentistry and we encourage patients to contact one of our professional for more information on available procedures.  

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Minimally Invasive Dentistry with the Diagnodent Laser

Tuesday, November 16th, 2010

miami-dentist-diagnodent-laser-dentistryMinimally invasive technology is exciting for both medical professionals as well as the patients they treat.  These new technologies allow professionals to conduct traditional procedures, often times with more precision and less pain.  When searching for a Miami dental provider, you may wish to find a professional who uses minimally invasive technologies so your visit is as painless and comfortable as possible.

Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

We take pride in providing the highest quality of service at Assure a Smile.  Ensuring our patients receive the latest in holistic dental and minimally invasive treatments is our top priority.  Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the Diagnodent Laser, one of our leading minimally invasive treatment options.

Miami Dentistry and the Diagnodent Laser

How does the Diagnodent Laser work?

In a lot of ways, the Diagnodent Laser works like a radar, detecting bacteria cultures and plaque accumulation on the enamel of the teeth.  The laser is shown on the surface of the tooth and is reflected back towards the instrument when it encounters even the slightest areas of decay, identifying the problem areas.


How does the Diagnodent Laser compare to X-rays and other cavity?

This method is far superior to X-rays and manual exploration because the Diagnodent’s fluorescent laser detects areas of plaque and bacteria that are nestled deep within the tiny cracks and valleys of a tooth, known as hidden carries.  As the name suggests, these areas of decay are hard to detect because they are nearly invisible to both the naked eye and X-rays.

Should I be concerned with hidden caries?

Yes, hidden caries may be extremely detrimental to long term oral health.  Because they are hidden, they can grow undetected and eventually penetrate into the soft tissue of the tooth before they can be identified and properly treated.  This sets into motion a high level of tooth decay that may result in major cavities, root canals, and ultimately gum infection.


The Diagnodent Laser is just one of the leading technologies we offer to our patients.  This laser treatment has many benefits and is virtually pain-free, making it an ideal choice for young children and patients with dental anxiety.  We encourage you to contact Assure a Smile for more information on Diagnodent Laser treatment sessions.

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What is Holistic Dentistry?

Wednesday, November 3rd, 2010

miami-dentist-what-is-holistic-dentistry

Whether new to Miami or simply in search of a new health care professional, you may notice an increasing number of doctors, dentists, and other specialists who claim to be holistic.  Like many, you may be confused as to how holistic health professionals differ from traditional ones, and you may be wondering if a holistic professional is right for you.


Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

To understand holistic medicine, and holistic dentistry in particular, we must first look at the origin of the word itself.  Holistic comes from the Greek word holism, a term that means total, whole, and entire.


Holistic dentistry, like other holistic practices, looks at an individual as if they were a puzzle.  Like a puzzle, patients are an intricate system of different pieces that are interconnected, each one affecting the next.
This also reflects the idea that a single system, like a human being, is more than the sum of several individual parts.   Holistic medicine uses this concept when treating patients.  For holistic dentists this idea means looking at much more than simply the teeth and gums.   At Assure a Smile, we like to think of holistic dentistry as being people dentistry; an examination of the entire patient.


Dental cleanings for example, begin with a full TMJ scan to better understand the entire head, neck, and jaw area of a new patient.  This is important because a patient may experience pain or discomfort in their mouth that is actually caused by a problem located outside of their mouth.  These problems are often overlooked by traditional dental cleanings that do not inspect the head, neck, and jaw.  Patients are often referred to other specialists as a result, prolonging diagnoses of the problem.


Holistic dentistry also seeks to preserve teeth in the most natural state possible.  Excessive drilling, grinding, and tooth removal are avoided and typically reserved as a measure of last resort.  Instead, non-invasive procedures are used to straighten, strengthen, and enhance oral health.


Perio protect is one such system Assure a Smile recommends to patients with gum disease.  Invisalign clear braces are another non-invasive treatment Assure a Smile offers, specifically to patients who wish to realign their teeth for both aesthetic and hygienic reasons.  These treatments are safe relative to other traditional chemical and invasive treatments, respectively, helping to preserve long term oral health.

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Treating an Overbite with Invisalign

Thursday, October 28th, 2010

Overbite-treatment-with-InvisalignOverbites occur when the teeth of the upper jaw fall too far over those of the lower jaw.  As a holistic dental practice, Assure a Smile offers the Invisalign treatment plan for patients who wish to gently correct their overbite while preserving their teeth.  Miami Invisalign patients now receive $1,000 off treatment plans, making today the day to start forming the smile of your dreams!


Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

Overbites, like Crossbites, are common in both young children and adults.  Depending on the severity of the overbite, health risks include the development of periodontal disease and TMJ.  Patients often wish to correct overbites for aesthetic reasons as well.  Assure a Smile prefers to offer patients the Invisalign Clear Braces treatment for several reasons, including:

Invisalign Is Clear

Invisalign uses state-of-the-art aligners that are molded to fit around both the upper and lower jaw of the patient.  They are almost exact replicas of the patient’s teeth, except they are tweaked slightly to shift teeth into alignment.  Best of all, these aligners are clear, offering a orthodontic treatment plan that is discreet.

Increased Oral Hygiene

Invisalign aligners are removable.  The days of brushing, flossing, and delicately cleaning around metal brackets and wires are long gone.  The removable nature of Invisalign makes it easier for patients to clean their teeth as if they never started an orthodontic treatment plan.  No special brushes.  No special floss.  Patients are able to maintain excellent oral hygiene without having to change their cleaning routines.

Miami Invisalign Offers Convenience

Unlike traditional orthodontic procedures, Invisalign Clear Braces are mailed to the patient at set intervals.  Patients progress through their treatment regiment without excessive office visits, making Invisalign both convenient and comfortable.

Miami Invisalign Special:  Assure a Smile now offers $1,000 off Invisalign Clear Braces treatments!  Call or email today!

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Consult Miami Invisalign Providers for Crossbite Treatment

Tuesday, October 26th, 2010

consult-Miami-Invisalign-Providers-for-Crossbite-TreatmentA crossbite occurs when one or more teeth are irregularly positioned horizontally; the teeth in question are either too close to the outside or inside of the mouth.  This is a common irregularity that can be caused by several factors.  When seeking to correct this irregularity, look no further than Assure a Smile!  Our office has been a Miami Invisalign provider for years, and we are excited to now offer $1,000 off all Invisalign Clear Braces treatments!



Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:

Crossbites are common among both children and adults.  Several things may contribut to the formation of a crossbite, including the following:

Keeping Baby Teeth Too Long:

It is common for some people to keep their baby teeth for a prolonged period of time.  Permanent teeth end up developing as the baby teeth are still in the mouth, causing the Permanent teeth to grow outward.  This can occur on one side or both sides of the jaw.

Excessive Mouth Breathing:

For children with serious allergies, nasal problems, and snoring tendencies, crossbites may occur because of too much mouth breathing.  As the mouth of a child grows, it is important for the mouth to remain in a natural and closed position through most of the day and night.  This closed position keeps the tongue pressed lightly against the roof of the mouth, encouraging it to grow outward in a natural fashion.  Mouthing breathing, on the other hand, keeps the mouth open for prolonged periods of time.  This pulls the tongue away from the roof of the mouth, allowing it to grow narrowly.

Narrow Roof of the Mouth:

The roof of your mouth is formed by the combination, or fusion, of a couple different bones.  Sometimes these bones do not grow in sync with the lower jaw, creating an upper jaw that is narrower.  As a result, the molars of the upper jaw are misaligned along the interior edges of the molars of the lower jaw.

As a Holistic Miami Dental practice, Assure a Smile strives to preserve the teeth and gums of our patients.  Drilling, chemical treatments, and tooth removal are conducted as a last alternative only.  For Miami patients, Invisalign offers the perfect solution for treating a crossbite.  These clear braces are comfortable, molded specifically for each patient, and can be removed at the convenience of the individual.  Most of all, they can correct misalignments without resorting to tooth removal or uncomfortable metal braces.

Special:  Miami Invisalign patients save $1,000 with Assure a Smile!

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