Dentists Journal

Top Ten Stories of the Week
10/17/2020

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Benefits of early orthodontic treatment

Timing is everything – even when it comes to your child’s orthodontic treatment. “Early” treatment, also called “interceptive” treatment, means treatment that is performed while some baby teeth are still present.

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that your child’s first check-up with an orthodontist be performed when an orthodontic problem is first recognized, but no later than age 7. Why age 7? By then, your child has enough permanent teeth for an orthodontist to evaluate the developing teeth and the jaws, which in turn can provide a wealth of information. AAO orthodontists are trained to spot subtle problems even in young children.

There are generally three outcomes of an initial check-up:

No treatment is expected to be necessary.

Treatment may be needed in the future, so the child will be followed periodically while the face and jaws continue to grow.

There is a problem that lends itself to early treatment.

While there are many orthodontic problems that orthodontists agree are best treated after all permanent teeth have come in, early treatment can be in a patient’s best interests if their problem is one that could become more serious over time if left untreated. The goal of early treatment is to intercept the developing problem, eliminate the cause, guide the growth of facial and jaw bones, and provide adequate space for incoming permanent teeth. A patient may require a second course of treatment after all permanent teeth have come in to move those teeth into their best positions.

The kinds of problems orthodontists may recommend treating while a child still has some baby teeth include:

Underbites – when the lower front teeth are ahead of the upper front teeth

Crossbites – when the jaw shifts to one side

Very crowded teeth

Excessively spaced teeth

Extra or missing teeth

Teeth that meet abnormally, or don’t meet at all

Thumb-, finger-, or pacifier- sucking that is affecting the teeth or jaw growth

Some of these orthodontic problems are inherited, while others may result from accidents, dental disease, or abnormal swallowing.

Early orthodontic treatment can take many forms. The orthodontist could prescribe a fixed or removable “appliance” – a device used to move teeth, change the position of the jaw, or hold teeth in place in order to bring about desirable changes. Sometimes no appliances are necessary. Rather, removal of some baby teeth may help the permanent teeth erupt better. The extractions will be timed to take best advantage of a patient’s growth and development.

Regardless of how treatment goals are reached, the bottom line is that some orthodontic problems may be easier to correct if they are found and treated early. Waiting until all the permanent teeth have come in, or until facial growth is nearly complete, may make correction of some problems more difficult.

To give your child the best opportunity for a healthy, beautiful smile, visit an AAO orthodontist. No referral needed! Most AAO orthodontists provide an initial consultation at no cost and with no obligation. Your orthodontist can alert you to potential problems and recommend treatment when it is most appropriate for your child. Remember, timing is everything.

he American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) is open exclusively to orthodontists – only orthodontists are admitted for membership. The only doctors who can call themselves “orthodontists” have graduated from dental school and then successfully completed the additional two-to-three years of education in an accredited orthodontic residency program.

When you choose an AAO orthodontist for orthodontic treatment, you can be assured that you have selected a specialist orthodontist, an expert in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics who possesses the skills and experience to give you your best smile.

(10/09/2020)
by AAO

More Information: https://www.mybestdentists.com/resources/AmericanAssociationofOrthodon


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Dr. Garima Talwar helps her community by providing pro bono services to patients in need

Dr. Garima K. Talwar brings not only many years of experience to Esthetique, in Ashburn Virginia but her dedication to cosmetic and full mouth reconstructive dentistry has won her many patients who have experienced life changing results.

Dr. Talwar received her Doctor of Dental Science from Loma Linda University and MS in Prosthodontics from the University of Maryland. She is a Diplomate of American Board of Prosthodontics and a Fellow of The American College of Prosthodontists. Prosthodontics is a Dental specialty which required three years of additional training after one has become a dentist. The specialty focuses on complex cosmetic and reconstructive Dentistry.

She takes extensive continuing education on a regular basis to further her expertise and be conversant with latest in her field and is also a Clinical Assistant Professor at the Post Graduate Program of Prosthodontics at the University Of Maryland School Of Dentistry. At Johns Hopkins, Dr. Talwar is involved in providing prosthodontic services to patients who have suffered from trauma or cancer, and also supervise the dentists enrolled in the general practice residency

The focus of her office is on the ‘age old concept of care’, the basis of all treatment at Esthetique Dentistry. This exceptional care and her dedication to Cosmetic and Reconstructive Dentistry has always been a life changing experience for her patients, and their Testimonials are self evident of that.

Dr. Garima Talwar has been recognized as the country’s top dentist in cosmetic and reconstructive dentistry by Consumers Research Council of America since 2013. Dr. Talwar is a member of American Dental Association.

Dr. Talwar participated in Smiles Across Loudoun event in October 2014 and assisted local community with free dental services including cleanings, fillings and extractions.

(10/10/2020)

More Information: https://www.mybestdentists.com/GarimaTalwar


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Are you having jaw pain?

Jaw pain described as an aching pain or throbbing. It can start off mild and start to get more intense. Recognizing the underlying issues is the initial step in treating jaw pain. Here are a few conditions to look out for.

When considering your teeth and gums at home, it’s also important to recognize new problems in your mouth. They can be warning signs of more dangerous conditions in your body. Signs to look out for cover:

Bleeding gums

Gum, tooth, or jaw pain

Random loose or teeth that have fallen out

Reappearing bad breath

Sores, unusual patches, or bumps in your mouth.

Toothaches along with jaw pain are the most common types of dental complaints when visiting Troy Family Dental. There can be bad pain or sensitivity to hot and cold drinks, along with food. Once you have finished eating or drinking the pain may last for 15 seconds. The more inflammation, the more severe the pain may become. Pain may be present in the cheek or ear as well, along with the jaw.

Grinding of the Teeth

Grinding may cause damage to your teeth. Teeth grinding is one of the main jaw pain causes. Also known as clenching the teeth. People may grind their teeth when they are stressed, some grind their teeth while sleeping, they may not be aware of it. Grinding your teeth can likely lead to some major dental problems. Reducing stress or wearing a mouthguard at night is one way to prevent grinding.

Osteomyelitis

Osteomyelitis moves through the bloodstream attacking bones and surrounding tissues. It is an infection. When someone has osteomyelitis in the jaw, temporomandibular joint, known as TMJ. is affected. This may create jaw pain, possible fever, and inflammation. Osteomyelitis is treatable with antibiotics or surgery to extract the parts of the bone that have been contaminated.

TMJ Disorder

Temporomandibular disorder, also identified as TMD, affects the temporomandibular joint in the jaw. In addition to discomfort, this disorder can cause the jaw to produce a clicking noise when opening the mouth or chewing. In critical cases, the disorder can even cause the jaw to shift permanently adhered in an open or closed position.

Jaw and mouth pain is a sign of stress.

Pain or discomfort in the jaw are also symptoms to having a heart attack. It is important to seek medical advice as soon as possible. It could help save your life or that of a family member.

Nearly nine in ten types of diseases can produce symptoms in your mouth. That puts Troy Family Dental in the St. Louis Metro East on the front line for spotting severe health conditions growing silently in your body. This is one reason it’s so essential to see a dentist two times annually for dental cleanings and checkups.

 

(10/12/2020)

More Information: https://www.troyfamilydental.com/family-dentist/jaw-pain-may-be-caused-by-dental-problems/


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The reasons why you Shouldn’t wait to restore your damaged teeth

It doesn’t matter how or why your tooth was damaged. If you have a tooth that’s cracked, chipped, or may have a serious cavity, you shouldn’t wait to get help. The sooner you restore your damaged tooth, the better. Fresh Smiles offers a wide range of restorative options that will get your smile back to optimal health.

YOU CAN GET RELIEF FROM PAIN AND DISCOMFORT:

First and foremost, restoring your damaged tooth will eliminate pain and discomfort. A cracked tooth or a tooth with a serious cavity can become infected, causing a painful toothache. And, even minor chips and damage to your enamel can cause sharp, harsh edges on your teeth, which may cut your lips, gums, and tongue. Restoring your tooth will help you avoid pain and discomfort, and keep your smile healthy.

WAITING TO TREAT A DAMAGED TOOTH WILL CAUSE MORE ORAL HEALTH ISSUES:

If you don’t treat a damaged tooth right away, you may not be able to save it, even with a dental crown or root canal therapy. This means that you may end up needing a tooth extraction in addition to restorative care. In the most severe cases, your damaged tooth may end up falling out. The longer you wait, the less likely you are to be able to save your tooth.

EARLY DETECTION AND PREVENTION SAVES YOU TIME AND MONEY:

Fixing a damaged tooth with a dental crown is much more affordable than replacing a missing tooth. Not only that, but extracting and replacing a tooth is usually much more time-consuming and invasive compared to treatment with a root canal and crown. By getting treatment early, you can save quite a bit of time and money.

PAYMENT PLANS AND FINANCING MAKE IT EASY TO AFFORD RESTORATIVE TREATMENTS:

Most treatments for damaged teeth are covered by dental insurance, so it’s easy to afford the cost of the procedure. And, even if you don’t have dental insurance, or you don’t have enough coverage for the entire procedure, most dentists can set up low-interest financing and payment plans to keep the procedure within your budget.

A damaged tooth does more than just negatively affect your smile and your self-esteem. Tooth decay and other damage can easily progress into an infection, which will eventually result in the loss of your tooth. So, if you think one of your teeth is damaged or infected, don’t wait!

(10/10/2020)
by Fresh Smiles

More Information: https://freshsmilesplymouthmeeting.com/4-reasons-you-shouldnt-wait-to-restore-your-damaged-teeth/


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5 Ways to Replace a Missing Tooth

It is unfortunate when someone loses a tooth; however we now have several options to replace it. Listed below are five of the most common ways to replace a missing tooth.

1.- Removable Partial Denture:

It can be very embarrassing when missing front teeth. A removable partial denture, which is worn during the day, can replace one or many missing teeth.  Sometimes a partial denture may need metal clasps to help it stay in the mouth.  Unfortunately, these metal clasps may be visible when speaking or smiling.  Another disadvantage of a removable partial denture is that they can move a little when speaking or eating, which can be uncomfortable.  We recommend taking them out at night and soaking them in a cleaning solution.  With a partial denture there is no need to file down any teeth, and this option is the most economical.  A full denture can replace all missing teeth.

2.- Temporary Denture:

A temporary denture is a short term solution for a missing tooth. We call it a “flipper” because it flips in and out easily.  This is used when the tooth will be restored in the future with a bridge or an implant, but we are waiting for the site to heal.  These are much like a removable partial denture, but usually less sturdy, less bulky, and less expensive.  We do not alter surrounding teeth when we make a flipper.

3.- Bridge:

A bridge is an option when there are teeth on either side of the missing tooth. A bridge is a fixed solution that stays cemented in the mouth and does not come out.  This method involves cutting down the teeth on either side of the missing tooth to be able to connect them together.  We recommend floss threaders, which slide under the bridge, to keep it clean.  The disadvantages for bridges are cutting down teeth that might be perfectly healthy, and sometimes bridges in the lower jaw do not last as long since the jaw flexes and the unbendable bridge can spring a leak on one side or the other that allows for decay or bacteria to seep in.  Sometimes the teeth next to the gap need a filling or a crown and this method can kill two birds with one stone; filling the gap and fixing the adjacent tooth at the same time.  A bridge can replace one or two missing teeth easily, and sometimes more if there is enough support.

4.- Dental Implant:

An implant is a great way to replace a missing tooth. This solution feels and acts the most like a natural tooth when chewing, brushing or smiling.  The implant replaces the actual root of the missing tooth and heals in the bone for several months.  We then place an abutment, to which a crown will be cemented.  A major advantage is no need to alter any other teeth when placing an implant.  An implant is a great solution for a single missing tooth, and even more implants can replace many missing teeth.  When smiling or talking there is no way to tell the difference between an implant and a natural tooth.

5.- Do Nothing:

There is always the option to do nothing. When a tooth is removed, the bone melts away and the other teeth in the area will shift to fill the gap.  This can sometimes create a difficult place to clean and lead to other problems like bone loss or decay around the existing teeth.

(10/11/2020)
by Alexis R. Oristian, DDS

More Information: https://vadentist.com/5-ways-to-replace-a-missing-tooth/


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Your smile is the signal of your health and happiness says Dr Michelle Torres

No wonder it gets noticed. That’s why the flash, function and feel of your teeth matter, and why perfecting them is the best way we know to brighten your shine.

You’re in charge of how. We’re instinctively conservative in our approach and fastidiously thorough in exams and conversations, because smart choices start with understanding all your options.  

We start each exam by getting the clearest possible view of your bite, using magnification loops (glasses that work like microscopes) to assess your teeth and screen for periodontal disease and oral cancer. We’ll discuss the relationship between your oral and overall health and talk through what your digital radiographs mean. 

Making every visit this comprehensive and complete helps us avoid issues before they arise, plan treatments most effectively, and stay sure of the state of your smile, in the moment and for a lifetime. 

Dr. Cesar Escudero and Dr. Michelle Torres grew up in the SF South Bay and received their doctorates in dental surgery from UCSF School of Dentistry in 1993, having matriculated, respectively, from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and San Jose State University.

Conscious that knowledge is always advancing, they maintain a commitment to education and membership in the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association and the Santa Clara Dental Association.

The doctors have each earned far-reaching reputations in aesthetic dentistry, with Dr. Escudero choosing implant and reconstructive dentistry as his areas of expertise and Dr. Torres focusing on total family care.

While Dr. Escudero discovered his love for dental artistry as a student, Dr. Torres knew she wanted to care for people and their teeth since age nine. They are fiercely devoted to their patients, having enjoyed their trust and friendship for nearly two decades (and counting). Today, you’ll find Dr. Escudero in Los Gatos and Dr. Torres with our team in San Jose.

The doctors live in Los Gatos with their two children, at whose schools Dr. Torres is an active parent volunteer (when not providing free or low-cost dental services to at-risk kids), and Dr. Escudero coaches wrestling (when not at the Los Gatos Wrestling Club).

Together, these seasoned partners take pride and pleasure in vitalizing oral health for neighbors of every circumstance.

(10/14/2020)

More Information: https://mybestdentists.com/DrMichelleTorresCesarEscuderoDDS


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The current treatment model for many dentists is a disease model that rewards aggressive dental treatment

In contrast, Dr. Gary Umeda and his team operate from a health model that emphasizes proper diagnosis with risk assessment and uses minimally invasive treatments with quality materials. 

Doing a proper risk assessment helps identify and prevent the development or progression of dental problems. By taking preventive measures, you will save costs over time.

Preventive dentistry includes in-office services such as full exams (including oral cancer screenings), x-rays, teeth cleaning, polishing, and sealants to protect children’s teeth from decay. We work with you to establish a personalized at-home care plan to keep your teeth and gums healthy in between visits.

We also perform periodontal (gum) disease therapy to assess and monitor risk and prevent decay. When it comes to gum disease, patients often do not even realize that they have a problem until it is very far advanced. Early symptoms are usually minor. However, gum disease is closely linked to overall health. When left untreated, it can cause problems not just in your mouth but in other areas of your body, including heart disease. We regularly screen you for signs of inflammation and bone loss in order to detect signs of early gum disease.

Our approach to dental health and overall wellness is to prevent serious dental problems before they develop so we can keep your teeth and gums healthy in the long-term.

Dr. Gary Umeda (second photo) brings you excellence with the most current procedures that are available in the dental community. He believes in ongoing education and strives to be at the forefront of cutting edge technology and procedures. Always passionate about sharing his experience and knowledge with other dentists, Dr. Umeda serves as a mentor for several dental associations and organizations.

Dr. Umeda obtained his Bachelor of Science from UCLA in 1971 followed by his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of the Pacific in 1975. He holds several other respected credentials, including Fellowship of the International Congress of Oral Implantology, Academy of Dentistry International, and American College of Dentists. Of his many achievements, the honor Dr. Umeda continues to take the greatest pride in is the positive results seen in his patients, many of whom he has served for decades.

(10/09/2020)

More Information: https://mybestdentists.com/GaryTUmeda


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What Exactly is Laser Dentistry?

Laser dental care professionals use laser energy to reshape the gums and remove overgrown tissues. Laser technology is also used for simple issues like teeth whitening. Pediatric dental care has been majorly improved by the innovations of laser dentistry; dental care professionals are now able to help children who were afraid to undergo treatment for their dental problems.

‍Scope of Laser Dentistry

Laser Dentistry can:

• Regenerate damaged nerves

• Relieve pain from cold and canker sores

• Remove benign oral tumors

• Treat infections that occur after a root canal procedure

• Remove throat tissues that lead to sleep apnea

• Treat gum disease

• Expose hidden wisdom teeth

• Remove gum inflammation

• Perform biopsies related to cavities

• Reshape gums for better health

‍Advantages of Laser Dentistry

Laser dentistry offers many advantages to patients and medical professionals alike. Here are some of the advantages offered by laser dentistry compared to other kinds of treatments:

• The laser beams make the procedure a ‘no blood loss’ type of surgery

• The areas of the mouth treated by laser beams undergo little to no damage, which speeds up the healing process

• No anesthesia

• A ‘no-cut’ type of surgery

• Precise laser beams ensure that healthy tissues go unaffected by the procedure

• The lasers sterilize the tissues around the affected area and help prevent infection post-surgery

‍Types of Lasers Used in Laser Dentistry:

Different types of lasers are used by dental care professionals to treat different conditions. The two types of lasers usually used in dental treatments are hard tissue lasers and soft tissue lasers. Dental care professionals treat these issues by altering laser pulse and wavelength.

Hard tissue lasers are generally used in cavity detection, base work for dental fillings, and around sensitive teeth. Soft tissue lasers are used for lengthening crowns, treating tongue movement issues, gum reshaping, and removing folds caused by dentures.

‍Laser dentistry offers painless relief to patients with many different dental issues.

(10/12/2020)
by OMDental

More Information: https://www.omdentalllc.com/post/what-is-laser-dentistry


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Dr Reagan Carroll has developed a unique protocol that aids him in determining an individualized treatment plan

Dr. Reagan Carroll has spent many years developing a unique protocol that aids him in determining an individualized treatment plan for each patient.  

The initial examination appointment may take up to 1-1/2 hours, and may consist not only of a clinical evaluation, but an update of x-rays, initial diagnostic impressions of your teeth, and digital photographs.  It is critical to evaluate a patient's needs based on their periodontal (gum & bone) health, the biomechanical (existing tooth structure and previous dentistry) considerations, function (joint, bite and chewing), and dentofacial (smile) characteristics. 

For the past nineteen years Dr. Reagan L. Carroll has been practicing dentistry in The Woodlands Montgomery County area. He and his family have made The Woodlands their home since 1999. Dr. Carroll is interested in sports, reading, current events and is a member of the local Bible Study Fellowship International men's group.

Dr. Carroll is a member of the American Dental Association, the Texas Dental Association, and the Greater Houston Dental Society. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch School of Allied health Sciences in 1991, and a Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Texas Dental Branch Houston in 1998.

(10/13/2020)

More Information: https://www.mybestdentists.com/in-the-news/ReaganLonnieCarroll


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Dental issues from cigarettes, coffee and alcohol

Coffee, alcohol, and tobacco can wreak havoc on your teeth and mouth. Everyday use of these products can lead to tooth staining and loss, and in some scenarios, gum disease and cancer.

Each time you inhale, the toxins in the smoke will stain the enamel and weaken your teeth. Excessive smoking can lead to gum disease and different forms of cancer. This includes the effects of smoking marijuana as well as tobacco.

Smokeless tobacco products are even worse for your teeth and gums because of the direct contact the tobacco has with the teeth and gums and inner lips.

Coffee and alcohol products are acidic and will weaken and stain your teeth. Coffee, especially, will stain your teeth a brownish color. The darker you drink your coffee; the more prominent the staining will be on your teeth.

Reversing These Side Effects

Of course, the best way to treat the side effects of these products is to limit or discontinue use. However, since this may not always be feasible, proper care of your teeth is mandatory to help reduce the effects these products will have.

You should use toothpaste that is geared towards removing stains. Add a mouthwash that cleans your teeth and removes stains to the mix. Finalize the treatment plan with thorough flossing each day.

Follow this cleaning plan with routine dental checkups. Your dentist will be able to professionally clean your teeth to help them stay white and remain healthy. In addition, if the staining is severe, the dentist can professionally whiten your teeth.

It is very important that you have routine checkups when you use these products regularly. Your dentist can check for signs of different mouth cancers or gum disease during the checkup. By having these exams regularly, if there is a problem it will be caught early and much easier to treat.

Other Tips And Tricks

Of course, the best dental resolutions you can make is to quit or cut back on these habits. However, if you are going to continue to use any of these products, there are a few things that you can do that may lessen the staining side effects.

Using a creamer in your coffee can help reduce the staining effects of this drink, but it will not eliminate it altogether. Mixing alcohol with other beverages generally does not reduce the effects alcohol has on teeth because juices and soda are generally high in sugar or acids. If you consume alcohol, you should rinse our mouth out with water when you are done to reduce the amount of beverage left on your teeth. The only tips or trick to reduce the effects tobacco has on your teeth or moth is to avoid the product altogether.

Home whitening products vary greatly from product to product. Most dentists will tell you that each of these products come with some type of risk, and many times the results that are promised are never achieved. If you want to have your teeth whitened, the best thing that you can do is make an appointment with your dentist. Your dentist will have the professional materials and the knowledge on how to whiten your teeth effectively.

(10/14/2020)
by Absolute Dental

More Information: https://www.absolutedental.com/blog/dental-issues-cigarettes-coffee-alcohol/#:~:text=Coffee%2C%20alcohol%2C%20and%20tobacco%20can,scenarios%2C%20gum%20disease%20and%20cancer.


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