March 31, 2008

Cheap vs. expensive toothpaste - does it really make a difference?

Walk up and down the dental care aisle in any grocery or drugstore and you're bound to be bombarded with many choices when it comes to toothpaste. From whitening toothpastes to breath fresheners to desensitizers to cavity protection, there's a toothpaste available to fix virtually any condition. However, the prices of these toothpastes can vary considerably.

When it comes to cheap versus expensive toothpaste, does it really make a difference? Not necessarily. When it comes down to it, toothpastes need to have a few basic things:
1.    Fluoride. It's essential that your toothpaste contain fluoride. Fluoride works to strengthen the enamel of the teeth, making them less likely to decay and result in cavities and the need for fillings.
2.    Tartar-controlling agents. Your toothpaste should also contain ingredients that control tartar. Tartar is plaque build-up on the teeth that hardens and must be removed by a dentist or hygienist. If left untreated, it will cause tooth decay.
3.    ADA approval. Any toothpaste you get should also have the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval. This indicates the toothpaste has been approved by a board of experts as a safe and effective way to clean your teeth.

Beyond that, the type of toothpaste you choose is completely up to your own personal taste. A more expensive toothpaste does not necessarily mean it's the best. However, if certain toothpastes contain a number of agents, such as whitening and desensitizing and breath-freshening all in one, it's likely to be more expensive than other more basic toothpastes.

Now that you know it's not the price of the toothpaste that matters, from there you can decided which is best for you based on your individual needs. The following are some more common toothpastes:
    Whitening. Whitening toothpastes have become more popular and affordable in recent years with the popularity of teeth whitening. Whitening toothpastes will not whiten teeth significantly, however-typically they will only whiten about a shade, which only removes surface stains.
    Desensitizing toothpaste. Many people have such problems with sensitive teeth that tasting anything hot or cold can cause extreme pain. Tooth desensitizers in the form of toothpaste start to work after just a couple of weeks and can make teeth less sensitive to extreme temperatures.
    Flavored. The flavors in toothpaste are generally of a mint variety, but cinnamon and citrus are common as well. For kids, toothpaste comes in a much wider assortment of flavors. The flavor of your toothpaste is purely a personal decision and doesn't affect its effectiveness.
    Mouthwash. Some toothpastes contain many of the same ingredients found in mouthwash and are designed specifically to freshen the breath. This type of toothpaste is very effective.
    Cavity protection. All toothpaste with fluoride has cavity-protection, but it is not a bad idea to get a toothpaste that works to control tartar as well.

You don't need to break the bank when it comes to toothpaste. An effective toothpaste does not need to be expensive. Pricier toothpastes have the same ingredients as cheap toothpaste. Just make sure the toothpaste has fluoride and anti-cavity agents.

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March 24, 2008

Pros and cons of silver amalgam fillings

At some point in their lives, most people will need a filling. A dentist will give you a filling if your tooth has decay in it. Using a drill, he will drill away the decay and clean the area out, and then fill the part that has been drilled.

When it comes to what fillings are made of, they have evolved over the years. It used to be that all fillings were made of silver amalgam fillings, but now, composite fillings, which are white instead of silver, are available now and blend into the teeth.

If you need a filling and are trying to decide between silver amalgam and white composite fillings, consider the following pros and cons of silver fillings:

Pros
    Cheaper. As a general rule, silver fillings are typically less expensive because the materials are cheaper, the labor is less intensive, and they are easier to place than composite fillings. This all translates to less cost for the patient.
    Easier. Silver fillings take less time to place than composite fillings. In order to place a composite filling correctly, the area being filled has to be totally isolated from saliva. Depending on where that area is, it can be difficult to keep the tooth free from saliva, so it takes longer to put the filling in than it would a silver filling.
    Stronger material. The material in silver amalgam fillings is actually stronger than the material used in a composite filling. Studies have also shown that alcohol wears down composite fillings much faster, so if you drink alcoholic beverages on a daily basis, you may opt for amalgam fillings as the composite ones will wear down faster.

Cons
    Weaken the teeth. While as a general rule the material used in silver fillings is stronger, it also weakens the tooth in which it is encased. As a result, the tooth with the filling is more prone to breakage after the silver amalgam filling has been placed.
    Mercury controversy. While the presence of mercury and its effects has been the topic of much debate, it's worth mentioning. Amalgam fillings are roughly 50% mercury, with less than 40% silver. However, evidence has shown that mercury is released into the mouth while chewing. So while the mercury fillings aren't going to cause any real illness, they are not 100% safe, either.
    Cosmetic purposes. Silver fillings do not blend into the teeth the way composite fillings do, making it much more obvious that the tooth has had work done. If you need a lot of fillings, the silver in amalgam fillings can make your mouth less attractive. Most people opt for composite fillings for this reason.

Whether you decide to get a silver amalgam filling or a composite is a matter of personal preference. You may want to discuss the full pros and cons with your dentist. As a general rule, composite fillings are increasing in popularity because they are mercury-free and because they are more attractive in the mouth.

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March 17, 2008

Benefits of replacing old fillings

Your old fillings are most likely made out of silver amalgam and many people suggest that you may want to have them replaced. However, the pros and cons of this procedure are many and it is not completely clear what is the best option. You should study the situation yourself and consult with your dentist to decide which option will be best for you.

Silver amalgam fillings actually have more mercury than any other substance. In fact, they contain more than 50% mercury. Additionally, mercury is toxic. Originally, it was believed that the filling did not release any mercury so they were perfectly safe as a filling in your mouth. However, these fillings do release mercury vapor and studies have shown that your body's content of mercury can be directly correlated to the amount of mercury fillings you have in your mouth.

Your first step in deciding whether to have your silver amalgam fillings replaced should be to consult with your dentist. If you dentist is the ones that installed the fillings, you may want to consult with a different dentist. Not all dentists have been trained on the newer white composite fillings so you need to make sure that you consult with a dentist that has been through the training. Remember that experience counts, so you will want to check your dentist's credentials.

You may also want to consult with your medical doctor. Many patients who have had silver fillings replaced have reported that they feel their ailments have improved after having the mercury removed. Your medical doctor can advise you if on whether they think you may be suffering from mercury toxins.

If you decide to have your fillings replaced, you will want to make sure that your dentist is trained to properly remove the mercury in your mouth. The procedure is not as easy as you may think. They need to take special precautions to make sure you don't swallow or inhale any of the toxic mercury. Just drilling the filling will create heat and release mercury vapor into the air which you will breathe unless proper precautions are taken. Talk with your dentist to see what training they have and what equipment they have to assist in the removal.

The following procedures should be used in a silver filling removal:
-    Keep the fillings cool so the mercury vapor released is minimized. This is done by maximizing the amount of water used during the procedure.
-    The filling should be removed in large pieces to minimize the amount of small pieces of mercury in your mouth.
-    A high volume suction aspirator should be used to evacuate mercury vapor as it is released into the air.
-    You should be provided an alternate clean air source so you are not subjected to the mercury vapor that is released and not evaporated quickly enough.
-    A rubber dam should be used around the tooth to catch the small pieces of mercury.
-    The dental office should have a filter on its air supply so that the remaining mercury vapor is cleansed from the air instead of recycling through the building.

You will enjoy several other benefits of replacing your mercury silver amalgam fillings besides knowing that you are no longer inhaling mercury vapor every day and night. First, the composites are white and much more natural looking. Also, the composite fillings bond better with your natural teeth so the tooth should actually be stronger than having a hard silver piece of metal in your tooth. Teeth with silver fillings break easier than a tooth with a properly installed composite filling.

In summary, your general health will be your number one concern when deciding to replace your silver amalgam fillings or not. You will have to decide if the risk of having them removed is worth the expense and the health risk of exposing yourself to the mercury during the procedure. Lastly, make sure you have a properly trained dentist perform the procedure to minimize your risks.

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March 10, 2008

Calcium and stronger teeth

Strong, healthy teeth have a number of benefits. Not only does keeping your teeth strong mean a brighter, healthier smile, but it also reduces your risk for tooth decay, tooth loss as you age, and other health problems related to your teeth and gums.

It used to be that dental experts said the best way to keep teeth strong is to brush and floss. While this is important, equally important in the health of your teeth is your diet. One way to keep your teeth strong is by getting enough calcium in your diet.

What is calcium?
Calcium is a mineral necessary for a number of crucial functions in the body, and in particular the development of strong teeth and bones. It helps to prevent a condition known as osteoporosis, in which the bones weaken and become brittle.

How does calcium strengthen teeth?
Calcium helps strengthen teeth by building up the enamel on the teeth. Enamel is vital for strong teeth. When sucrose, the main ingredient in sugar, is consumed, it reacts with the bacteria in the plaque on the teeth and gums, which slowly erodes the enamel. If the enamel is already weakened through a calcium deficiency, the teeth are more prone to decay and gums are more apt to become diseased.

Calcium is also important for the health of the gums. Periodontal, or gum, diseases account for most cases of tooth loss in older adults, and people with osteoporosis are also at an increased risk for developing gum diseases. A diet rich in calcium will help to combat osteoporosis.

An adequate supply of calcium is especially important for the development of teeth in children. Strong primary, or baby, teeth are important for developing good speech and chewing habits. In addition, calcium helps to strengthen the jaw bone, where the teeth grow from. For this reason, it's important children receive an adequate supply of milk in their diets

How can I get more calcium?
Since 4 out of 5 people in the United States don't get enough calcium, chances are good you could stand an increase in calcium. There are a number of ways you can increase the calcium intake in your body. Foods that are rich in calcium include:
    Dairy products. Dairy products like low-fat milk, cheese, and yogurt are rich in calcium. Aim for several servings a day. Also, be careful to read labels; just because something has calcium doesn't mean it's good for the teeth. Ice cream, for example, is high in calcium but loaded with sugar, which can lead to tooth decay.
    Green leafy vegetables. This includes lettuces like romaine and leaf, as well as broccoli and spinach. As a general rule, the darker the green, the healthier the vegetable is.
    Legumes. Certain legumes, such as rice, beans, and almonds, are also high in calcium.
    Supplements. Most people get their calcium requirements from dairy products, but many people are lactose intolerant. If milk products are upsetting to your stomach, there are a number of calcium supplements available that will help you get your daily allotment.

A diet rich in calcium will help your teeth remain healthy and strong.

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March 3, 2008

Why you need semi-annual cleanings

Having your teeth cleaned on a regular basis is one of the most important preventative measures you can take when it comes to caring for your teeth. How often you should have your teeth cleaned depends on the condition of your teeth, but dentists recommend you have your teeth professional cleaned at least twice a year, or about every 6 months.

What is a cleaning?
A professional teeth cleaning is done by your dentist or the dental hygienist. The process takes about 15 to 20 minutes, during which the hygienist will use special tools to clean the food deposits and tartar build-up that accumulate on the teeth. It helps to prevent gum disease and tooth decay, as the tartar and food particles can cause tooth decay and gum disease.

Why you need semi-annual cleanings
There are a number of reasons you should be getting semi-annual cleanings at your dentist's office, including:
    Prevent diseases. During your cleaning, your dentist or the hygienist will also screen you for other conditions that are highly treatable if caught early on, such as oral cancer and gum disease. When teeth are left unclean and gum disease sets in, you place yourself at risk for more expensive, complicated procedures like root canals, extraction, and more. In addition, gum disease places you at risk for much more serious conditions. The presence of gum disease has also been linked to heart disease and diabetes, so keeping the teeth and gums clean is crucial, especially as you age.
    Determine risk-factors. During your cleaning, your dentist can also tell you if you are at risk for certain conditions. Once these risk factors are identified, you can go about determining how to minimize your risk for more serious problems.
    Put together a treatment plan. Your dentist can also show you the proper way to clean and care for your teeth during your cleaning, including proper brushing and flossing techniques as well as the best diet for healthy teeth. This is particularly important for children, as the dentist or hygienist will help you show how to care for baby teeth and can address any concerns you may have.
    Insurance purposes. Most insurance plans include two cleanings a year at no cost to you after your deductible, so there's really no reason not to.
    Prevent more painful procedures. A cleaning in itself is a painless procedure that involves no anesthetic, so people who are afraid of the dentist have no reason not to get a cleaning. However, neglecting to have your teeth cleaned regularly can cause tartar build-up and might result in the need for a much deeper cleaning, which can be painful on the gums. In addition, not getting your teeth clean can also lead to decay that require fillings or even root canals, which are neither pleasant nor painless.

Going to the dentist to get regular semi-annual cleanings is important for your overall oral health. By getting your teeth cleaned every 6 months, you can prevent more serious problems down the road.

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February 25, 2008

Advantages of dentist teeth whitening systems

If your goal is to get whiter teeth, you probably won't have any trouble finding a product that will help you accomplish your goal. You need only walk up and down the tooth care aisles at your local drugstore to find an assortment of whitening products like whitening strips, paint-on gels, trays, toothpastes, and more.

While these products are inexpensive and will yield visible results, teeth whitening systems from your dentist are more effective than anything you can purchase over the counter. In-office whitening systems have a number of advantages over off the shelf whitening systems, including:
    Whiter teeth. Products from the stores like whitening strips or toothpastes will only whiten teeth a shade or two, which won't be enough for people who have deep stains, very discolored teeth, or those who want very white teeth. A dentist's whitening system can lighten teeth up to 8 shades, which will result in a very noticeable difference.
    Faster whitening. Off the shelf products will take at least a week or two to notice results. A whitening system from your dentist can take as little as an hour to notice much whiter teeth that will also have significantly more noticeable results.
    Longer-lasting results. Off the shelf whitening products typically don't last as long as dentist's whitening systems. With a dentist, the whitening penetrates deeper into the tooth, rather than just on the surface, as a toothpaste or strip would typically do. Some whitening systems never discolor, so the white smile is permanent.

Types of dentist teeth whitening systems
There are two main types of teeth whitening systems dentists use to bleach or whiten teeth - bleaching trays and Laser whitening.

Bleaching trays typically involve 2 appointments. The dentist takes impressions of your teeth and mouth, and from there a lab creates custom trays designed to fit your mouth. On your next appointment, your dentist will give you your trays and a high-power bleaching gel. You fill the trays with gel and wear them in your mouth for a specified period of time for the next couple of weeks, and will typically see results after a couple of days.

With laser whitening, there is only one appointment. The dentist places a special tool in your mouth that keeps your lips from touching your teeth. Then, he or she will paint a whitening gel onto your teeth and shine a laser onto your teeth. The light reacts with the bleach, whitening the teeth dramatically. The entire process takes about an hour.

There are other options for whitening teeth that the dentist can provide, such as porcelain veneers. These are much more costly than bleaching and laser whitening and involve bonding a thin sheet of porcelain to the teeth, changing the color and appearance of your teeth permanently. Porcelain veneers never change color or stain, either.
If you're looking for a dramatic whitening system for a brighter smile, a dentist can provide you with a number of systems that can help you get longer-lasting, more noticeable results.

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February 18, 2008

How diet affects dental health

There are many things that affect your overall dental health. How often you brush and floss, whether or not you visit the dentist regularly, smoking habits, and a number of other factors all contribute to the well-being of your teeth and gums.

One major contributing factor to dental health is your diet. What you eat and drink plays a huge role in how healthy your teeth and gums are. Poor nutrition is one of the leading causes of gum disease and tooth decay.

Foods that harm dental health
Foods and drinks that should be limited include those high in sugar, especially juices and hard candies. The main ingredient in sugar, sucrose, works by clinging to the plaque on the teeth and gums. The reaction eats at the enamel on the tooth, leading to decay. Decayed teeth can only be fixed by having the decay drilled out and then filled, or in worse cases, root canals or extraction if the decay is deep enough.

In addition, dark drinks like colas, coffee, and tea will stain your teeth, making them appear discolored and unhealthy.

Children are particularly susceptible to poor dental health as a result of nutrition. Children who have decayed or damaged teeth early in life will have trouble chewing and learning to speak. A diet full of high-sugar juices are the biggest culprits in dental health for children. In addition, children should to bed with a bottle. While it may be a convenient way to get the baby to fall asleep, the sugars found in juice and milk stay on the baby's teeth for hours and erode the enamel, leading to bottle mouth, which results in discolored or puckered baby teeth. If children are going to be fed juice, parents should wipe their gums with a damp cloth afterward, or brush any teeth with a soft-bristled infant toothbrush.

Foods that aid in dental health
In order to have strong, healthy teeth, the body needs to get an adequate supply of calcium. If not, the teeth will become brittle and more susceptible to breakage and decay. Foods that are high in calcium, like low-fat yogurt and skim milk, will help keep your calcium levels high enough to promote strong teeth and healthy gums.

Minimizing the effect of unhealthy foods
For most people, it isn't realistic to completely avoid foods that contain sugar. There are ways, however, that you can minimize the effects of certain foods on your teeth.
    Brush. If possible, brush your teeth after consuming foods with high sugar contents, such as soda, juice, and candy. Brushing will help rid the teeth and gums of the sugar as well as the plaque the sugar likes to cling to.
    Floss. Flossing is important as well. Floss picks are easily portable and make it easy to get rid of plaque build-up or objects stuck in the teeth.
    Chew gum. Chewing sugarless gum is one way to help promote the flow of saliva and rid the teeth of sugar particles and plaque that collect on the teeth.

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February 11, 2008

Preventing bone loss

As we age, our bones become less dense, making them weaker and more prone to breakage. This is true for the bones in the mouth as well. Weakened jaw bones and brittle teeth, in conjunction with gum disease, can result in lost teeth. However, there are a number of ways that bone loss can be prevented as we age.

Take care of your gums
Bone loss and gum disease go hand in hand. One of the best ways to avoid bone and tooth loss is to take proper care of your gums. Brushing regularly and flossing your teeth are the best ways to keep the gums healthy. You should brush at least twice a day for two minutes with a toothbrush that is approved by the ADA and toothpaste that contains fluoride. In addition, annual visits to the dentist for professional cleanings are important for the health of the gums as well.

Eat a healthy diet
Calcium and vitamin D are essential for the prevention of bone loss. There are a number of ways you can increase the calcium intake in your body. Foods that are rich in calcium include:
    Dairy products. Dairy products like low-fat milk, cheese, and yogurt are rich in calcium. Try and aim for several servings a day. Also, be careful to read labels; just because something has calcium doesn't mean it's good for the teeth. Ice cream, for example, is high in calcium but loaded with sugar, which can lead to tooth decay and eventual bone loss.
    Green leafy vegetables. This includes lettuces like romaine and leaf, as well as broccoli and spinach. As a general rule, the darker the green, the healthier the vegetable is.
    Legumes. Certain legumes, such as rice, beans, and almonds, are also high in calcium.
    Supplements. Most people get their calcium requirements from dairy products, but many people are lactose intolerant. If milk products are upsetting to your stomach, there are a number of calcium supplements available that will help you get your daily allotment.

A diet rich in calcium will help your teeth remain healthy and strong and prevent bone loss in the future. The best sources of vitamin D are natural sunlight, so make sure you're outside in the sunshine when possible (but wear sunscreen!).

See the dentist
Regular visits to the dentist are crucial to preventing bone loss. During the cleaning, the hygienist will use special tools to clear away the food deposits and tartar build-up that accumulate on the teeth and around the gums. It helps to prevent gum disease and tooth decay, as the tartar and food particles can cause these conditions. The dentist can also pinpoint any problems you may have, as well as identify your risk factors, so he or she can treat any problems with bone loss before they become worse.

Preventing bone loss is easily done by simply taking care of your teeth, eating healthy, and seeing the dentist on a regular basis. By doing these things, you can ensure your bones and your teeth will remain strong and healthy as you age.

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February 4, 2008

5 tips for choosing an off-the shelf whitening system

When it comes to whitening teeth, there are many different options. Gels, strips, and toothpastes you can buy at the store all work in a different way and have different strengths.

Types of off-the-shelf whitening systems
Before you decide on a whitening system, you should be aware of what is available. Some of the more common ones are:

Whitening toothpastes
The majority of toothpastes have some sort of whitening agents in them, and these are probably the least effective of all the over the shelf products. They typically only whiten teeth about a shade, which in most cases isn't enough to notice a difference. This is because toothpastes don't contain bleaching agents that other whitening products have, so they only work to remove surface stains, not the deeper staining that causes discoloring.
Whitening Strips
Perhaps the most popular off the shelf tooth whitening system, whitening strips come in a variety of brands with a variety of different strengths and times you spend applying them. Typically, you put them on twice a day from anywhere between 3 days to 14, with results noticeable after several days. These products contain peroxide, which will help to whiten the teeth to some degree (more than toothpaste but less than a dentist's visit). Results typically last at least six months.

Whitening gels
Whitening gels typically involve a small container of peroxide that you paint over the surface of your teeth with a small brush twice a day and leave on. The entire procedure takes about 2 weeks. These gels are generally effective as the gel manages to stay on the teeth longer than other products.

At-home bleaching trays
At-home bleaching trays consist of a one-size-fits-all mouth tray and a peroxide-based bleaching gel. The gel is applied to the tray and the tray is worn an hour or so a night for a week or two, depending on the level of whitening desired. While these will also achieve some degree of whitening, they can lead to uneven whitening.

Tips for choosing an off-the-shelf whitening system:
The following tips will be helpful to you when choosing an off-the-shelf whitening system:

1.    How strong is the bleaching agent? Each product has a different strength. Whitening toothpastes only whiten teeth about a shade, where whitening strips can whiten several more and will be more noticeable.
2.    How long will it take? Some products take 2 weeks before you will see results, others promise results in as little as three days.
3.    Are there side effects? The most common side effects of whitening products are sensitivity to the mouth and gums. Make sure you are aware of the side effects before purchasing an off-the shelf whitening system.
4.    Will it work for me personally? Generally speaking, some whitening systems, especially those that have a mouth tray, are pretty ineffective. The tray is a one-size-fits all type, so the whitening may occur unevenly.
5.    Is it recommended? Certain whitening systems you can purchase over the counter are recommended more than others. It pays to take some time and do a little research or read reviews before purchasing a whitening system.

The above tips should help you find the perfect whitening system for your individual needs.

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January 28, 2008

How to prevent gum disease

Gum disease can turn into a serious condition that, if left untreated, can result in loss of teeth. The main cause of gum disease is a build-up of plaque around the teeth and gum line. This plaque is loaded with bacteria, so if teeth and gums are not kept clean and in good health, the bacteria begin to infect the area.

Some of the more common types of gum, or periodontal, diseases include gingivitis and peridontitis. Gingivitis is the less serious and more common type and is characterized by swollen and bleeding gums. There are several different types of periodontitis, which can result in infection and ultimately, bone and tooth loss.

Fortunately, gum disease is completely preventable, and if caught early enough, treatable without any harmful or long-lasting effects.

How to prevent gum disease
In order to prevent gum disease, it's important to first understand the causes. Most of the time, gum disease results from inadequately cleaning the teeth and gums, but other factors such as stress, smoking, grinding teeth, pregnancy, certain medications, and poor nutrition can lead to gum disease as well.

The following tips will help you to prevent gum disease:
    Brush regularly. You should be brushing at least twice a day for two minutes each, a minute on the top and a minute on the bottom, brushing in a circular motion and concentrating on the gum line. Your toothbrush should be changed at least once every 3 or 4 months, as the bristles will begin to wear down and become less effective. You may also consider purchasing and electric toothbrush, which have shown to be more effective for removing plaque around the gum line.
    Floss. Neglecting to floss will not only lead to tooth decay in between the teeth, but especially around the gums as well, no matter how often you brush. You should floss once a day before you brush your teeth. Make sure to floss gently, and avoid snapping the floss into your gums; this can cause damage and bleeding to your gums, making them more susceptible to becoming infected.
    See the dentist. Regular check-ups that include cleanings can help spot problems before they turn into something more serious. Your dentist can also help you know if you're at risk for developing gum disease.
    Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Poor nutrition is one cause of gum disease. Foods and drinks that should be limited include those high in sugar, especially juices and hard candies. In addition, dark drinks like colas, coffee, and tea will stain your teeth. Foods rich in calcium, like low-fat yogurt and skim milk, will help keep your calcium levels high enough to promote strong teeth and healthy gums.
When left untreated, gum disease can be painful and expensive to correct. More serious cases of gum disease can cause damage to the bones in the jaw and the eventual loss of teeth. But taking the time to brush regularly, floss, and visit the dentist will help to prevent gum disease.

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