Mallard Creek Family Dentistry

For the first time, fertility experts have shown that, from the time that a woman starts trying to conceive, poor oral health can have a significant effect on the time to pregnancy.
Professor Roger Hart told the annual meeting of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology that the negative effect of gum disease on conception was of the same order of magnitude as the effect of obesity.
Periodontal (gum) disease is a chronic, infectious and inflammatory disease of the gums and supporting tissues. It is caused by the normal bacteria that exist in everyone's mouths, which, if unchecked, can create inflammation around the tooth; the gum starts to pull away from the tooth, creating spaces (periodontal pockets) that become infected. The inflammation sets off a cascade of tissue-destructive events that can pass into the circulation. As a result, periodontal disease has been associated with heart disease, type 2 diabetes, respiratory and kidney disease, and problems in pregnancy such as miscarriage and premature birth. Around 10% of the population is believed to have severe periodontal disease. Regular brushing and flossing of teeth is the best way of preventing it.
Prof Hart, who is Professor of Reproductive Medicine at the University of Western Australia (Perth, Australia) and Medical Director of Fertility Specialists of Western Australia, said: "Until now, there have been no published studies that investigate whether gum disease can affect a woman's chance of conceiving, so this is the first report to suggest that gum disease might be one of several factors that could be modified to improve the chances of a pregnancy."
The researchers followed a group 3737 pregnant women, who were taking part in a Western Australian study called the SMILE study, and they analysed information on pregnancy planning and pregnancy outcomes for 3416 of them.
They found that women with gum disease took an average of just over seven months to become pregnant – two months longer than the average of five months that it took women without gum disease to conceive.
In addition, non-Caucasian women with gum disease were more likely to take over a year to become pregnant compared to those without gum disease: their increased risk of later conception was 13.9% compared to 6.2% for women without gum disease. Caucasian women with gum disease also tended to take longer to conceive than those who were disease-free but the difference was not statistically significant (8.6% of Caucasian women with gum disease took over one year to conceive and 6.2% of women with gum disease).
Information on time to conception was available for 1,956 women, and of, these, 146 women took longer than 12 months to conceive – an indicator of impaired fertility. They were more likely to be older, non-Caucasian, to smoke and to have a body mass index over 25 kg/m2. Out of the 3416 women, 1014 (26%) had periodontal disease.
Prof Hart said: "Our data suggest that the presence of periodontal disease is a modifiable risk factor, which can increase a woman's time to conception, particularly for non-Caucasians. It exerts a negative influence on fertility that is of the same order of magnitude as obesity. This study also confirms other, known negative influences upon time to conception for a woman; these include being over 35 years of age, being overweight or obese, and being a smoker. There was no correlation between the time it took to become pregnant and the socio-economic status of the woman.
"All women about to plan for a family should be encouraged to see their general practitioner to ensure that they are as healthy as possible before trying to conceive and so that they can be given appropriate lifestyle advice with respect to weight loss, diet and assistance with stopping smoking and drinking, plus the commencement of folic acid supplements. Additionally, it now appears that all women should also be encouraged to see their dentist to have any gum disease treated before trying to conceive. It is easily treated, usually involving no more than four dental visits.

Source:http://www.newsroomamerica.com/story/146889/gum_disease_can_increase_the_time_it_takes_to_become_pregnant.html

Every year, Dr Rogers and Dr. Gustafson, as well as some of the team donate their time and money to various charieties in our community. Charities such as Art With Heart, Operation Christmas Child and Harvest Food Bank.

Mallard Creek Family Dentistry is having an opportunity to give again by participating in this years NC Mom Dental Clinic.

The North Carolina Missions of Mercy (NCMOM) portable free dental program is an outreach program of the North Carolina Dental Society. NCMOM is a grassroots effort, dependent entirely on volunteers, including dentists, dental hygienists, dental assistants, and scores of general volunteers which donate their time and talents tirelessly. NCMOM is dependent on funding from charitable organizations, civic organizations, private corporate & personal donations as well as grants.

For more information on how you can help out please click here: NC MOM CHARLOTTE

Here in Charlotte, we have already had really hot temperatures this spring. Since many people will be out swimming this summer, We thought we would share a few tips on how to prevent dental injuries — keep your kids and their teeth happy by reading this article!
What many parents don't realize is that lots of dental emergencies happen at swimming pools. If you take a blistering hot day, add a few dozen kids, throw in a lot of hard concrete edges, and sprinkle in some water to make everything slippery, you've created the perfect recipe for a dental disaster!

Luckily, you can prevent many dental injuries by simply following these three guidelines:

1 - No Running! Make sure that your kids walk while in the swimming pool area. Most pools have No Running posted as one of their rules. This is because water often gathers around swimming pools which makes things extra slippery. By making your kids walk, they will be less likely to slip, fall, and injure their teeth.

2 - Talk to Your Kids. If your kids are old enough, tell them that they can hurt their teeth. Many children don't realize that teeth can chip, crack, and even fall out. If you tell them what can happen if they're not careful when climbing the ladder, or hanging onto the hard, concrete edge of the pool they will likely be more careful and this will prevent a dental injury.

3 - Don't Play too Rough. If you are throwing your kids around in the water, they will be more likely to accidentally hit something that could hurt their mouth. Even accidentally colliding with another child in the pool could be forceful enough to cause a dental injury! So be aware of your surroundings and find safe games and activities to do in the water.

What to Do When a Dental Injury Occurs at the Pool

You also might want to put our phone number (704)596-0021 into your cell phone so that you'll have it in case a dental emergency occurs. We have a system to reach us after hours if needed.

Most Importantly: Have Fun

Have a lot of fun and be safe at the pool this summer! With a little extra caution, you can enjoy hours of water fun and stay injury-free.

Do you have any questions, comments, or concerns about dental accidents at the swimming pool? Speak your mind in the comments section below.

According to the National Confectioners Association, Americans spend more than $1.5 billion on Easter candy each year, second only to the $1.77 billion spent on Halloween. This means that on average each American will eat the equivalent of 25 pounds of candy, plus an additional 2 pounds of gum each year. Dear Doctor magazine encourages moderation to parents and caregivers. We strongly encourage you to become an educated consumer and monitor the amount of candy your children consume, and if they do eat candy to confine it to mealtimes, also ensure a healthy diet, brushing with fluoride containing toothpaste, chewing xylitol gum, which reduces the risk of cavities. Another idea is to modify the treats you (or the Easter Bunny) include in Easter baskets as there are many great things to give children that do not contribute to tooth decay or to childhood obesity. Some great ideas include giving some arts and crafts supplies, music CDs, books, and electronic gadgets.

Charlie the Horse from Dr. Arkle and Dr. Harris' Office came for a visit!
After staying with us a few days, he accompanied Dr. G while she visited a local school to talk about Dental Care with a preschool class!
Everyone had a great time!

Charlie has headed back to Drs. Arkle & Harris' office & we will miss him :)
We are grateful for them letting Charlie come and visit!

Mallard Creek Family Dentistry is proud to anounce that we are an Invisalign Preferred Provider again for 2011! We received that honor due to the significant number of patients we have helped using Invisalign.

With over 25 Continuing Education hours  already completed for 2011, we look forward to sharing new advancements in Invisalign technology with our patients!

Great teeth and tip-top oral hygiene can make any Valentine's Day kiss even sweeter.
While Cupid supplies the romance, experts at the Academy of General Dentistry offer tips for a whole new love affair with healthy teeth and gums:
Brush and floss. Kissing couples can share up to 500 species of germs, including some that cause gum disease. You should brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes and floss once a day to eliminate bacteria that lurk between your teeth.

Pucker up. Kissing itself can actually help prevent tooth decay because it stimulates saliva, which helps reduce the incidence of cavities.

Have a chocolate (or two, or three). You don't need to worry too much about Valentine's chocolates when it comes to your teeth. Unlike hard or gummy candies, chocolate doesn't cling to your teeth and your saliva is able to wash the sugar away. But you still have to consume chocolate in moderation. Constantly eating chocolate will harm your teeth over time.

Whiten and brighten.Tooth whitening may be one way to impress your favorite person. You can contact your dentist to obtain a proper diagnosis and to learn about treatment options.

Great smiles attract other great smiles, the experts add. According to the AGD, people with noticeable dental neglect are 32 times more likely to have a partner with noticeable neglect. People without visible dental neglect are 5.4 times more likely to have a comparable partner.

You can here more about this at your next dental visit at Mallard Creek Family Dentistry.

The holidays are a time for fun, festivities and family ... not dental emergencies! Unfortunately, a dental emergency can happen any time, regardless of the season.


Imagine breaking a tooth on a bone during Christmas dinner or waking up on Christmas morning with a toothache! Would you be prepared if a family member got a tooth knocked out while playing with a new football during the holidays?
It is a good idea to make dental appointments for your whole family to have check ups and cleanings before the holidays to make sure that there are no immediate problems present.
If you or your family members have cavities, go ahead and get them filled. A cavity left untreated can become painful and could also cause your tooth to need a root canal once the decay reaches the pulp of the tooth.
The following tips can help you during a dental emergency until you can get to the dentist:
Knocked Out Tooth

•Call your dentist immediately. OUr number is (704) 596-0021.

•Place a wash cloth in the sink (so the tooth doesn’t go down the drain) and rinse it very gently handling only the top of the tooth. Do not scrub any tissue that may be attached to the tooth.

•Gently place the tooth back into the socket. If this is not possible, place the tooth in a small container of milk. It’s very important to keep the tooth moist, and you will need to take the tooth to your dentist.

Broken Tooth

•Call your dentist immediately.

•Clean your mouth out by rinsing thoroughly with warm water.

•Apply a cold compress to the area to minimize any swelling.

Possible Broken Jaw
•If you think that your jaw might be broken, apply a cold compress to the area to minimize any swelling.

•Call your dentist immediately or go to the emergency room of a nearby hospital.

Toothaches

•Do not put any pain killers, including aspirin, on the gum because it can burn the gum tissue.

•Clean your mouth out by rinsing thoroughly with warm water.

•Gently floss around the tooth to remove any food particles that may be caught there.

•Call your dentist.

•Use ibuprofen to help minimize any pain.

Bitten Tongue or Lip

•Gently wipe the area clean with a cloth.

•Apply a cold compress to the area to minimize any swelling.

•Go to the emergency room of a nearby hospital if bleeding does not stop.

Something Caught Between Your Teeth
•Gently insert a piece of dental floss or a dental flosser.

•Be very careful not to cut the gum tissue.

•Never use a sharp object to try and remove something that is stuck in between your teeth

Be sure to talk with your dentist to find out if he/she will be available after hours during the holidays. If not, ask them to refer you to a dentist that will be handling their emergencies.

If you experience any pain from a dental problem, try taking ibuprofen. Aspirin should be avoided because it is an anticoagulant, which can cause too much bleeding during a dental emergency.

Okay, maybe eating all that Halloween candy in one night won't cause any new cavities, but let's face it, over time sweet treats can certainly do some damage. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) knows it can't compete with the excitement of Halloween, but does offer parents a few tips to protect their little monster's teeth.

1.Keep your child's diet balanced by adding in cheese, fruits, vegetables, grains, lean meat, milk and yogurt. Dole out Halloween candy sparingly along with healthy snacks.

2.Believe it or not, there are kids who don't actually like candy. It's true. Be the tooth-healthy house on the block. Yes, in the past those who gave out apples usually got "tricked" later on in the evening, but these days, there are many healthy snacks that kids would love to get. Look for cracker snack packs, raisins, trail mix, rice crispy treats, granola bars, etc.

3.Avoid chewy treats that tend to stick to teeth and cause more damage. If your kids prefer these candies, make sure they drink plenty of water and get in a good brushing when done.

4.Monitor candy consumption. Remember when you were a kid? Not only did you sneak in candies while you were going from house to house, but after you dumped everything on the floor, it was a smorgasbord. Keep younger kids busy by sorting and counting candy by color of wrappers, brands, favorites, etc. If you have more than one child in the house, encourage trading. When it's time for bed, put all the candy away. Make sure it doesn't mysteriously appear in their bedroom. Keep an eye out for empty wrappers around the house! After Halloween, treat your kids each day with one piece of candy in their lunch box or as an option for dessert. Also, consider donating a portion of their candy to a local shelter.

5.Now is an excellent time to review the basics of flossing.

6.Brushing your teeth used to be incredibly boring. Now kids have all sorts of options - whether it's a favorite cartoon character, a catchy tune or blinking lights, it's very entertaining. Use the fun of the holiday to get your kids excited about taking care of their teeth. Consider slipping in a new, fun toothbrush in you little one's pumpkin.

7.If your kids haven't been to the dentist in a while, consider October or November a good time to schedule an appointment for a thorough cleaning. Besides, after seeing so many creepy ghosts and ghouls on Halloween, the dentist won't seem that scary!
Give us a call today at (704)596-0021 or click here to request an appoinment.

Source:the examiner.com

It comes in a small package -- about the size of a matchbox -- and often smells minty fresh. And if you put it in your mouth, it just might save your neck.



The minty little gift in question? Dental floss. New research findings suggest that flossing -- and brushing -- daily could decrease your odds of developing neck cancer.


How Tooth Troubles Hurt

Flossing and brushing are so very good for you because they may help prevent oral diseases that somehow open the door to bad things like cancer. When researchers recently looked at a study sample of people with periodontitis -- a form of gum disease in which the bones that hold the roots of teeth in place start to break down -- they found that for each millimeter of supporting bone that was lost, head and neck cancer risk increased more than fourfold. (Did you know? Having healthy gums could equal a healthy heart, too.)
Not Your Average Gum Disease

Dental experts aren't quite sure of the exact causes of periodontitis. A not-so-clean mouth may not necessarily lead to it, but it can make periodontitis worse. Poor oral hygiene can also lead to another mouth disease called gingivitis, which causes gums to become red, puffy, and tender. So brush and floss daily, and see your dentist regularly. Choose your foods wisely. Here are the foods that help keep your gums healthy.



Good oral hygiene habits start when you're little. Having trouble getting your kids on board with personal hygiene? Get strategies for your hygienist at Mallard Creek Family Dentisty


RealAge Benefit:
Brushing and flossing your teeth daily can make your RealAge as much as 6.4 years younger. Take the RealAge Test!
References
Chronic periodontitis and the incidence of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Tezal, M. et al., Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention 2009;18 (9):2406-2412.

Smoking and Oral Health


Besides the link between tobacco and heart disease, stroke, emphysema, and cancer (especially lung and throat cancers), smoking leads to the following oral health consequences:

• Bad breath

• Tooth discoloration

• Inflammation of the salivary gland openings on the roof of the mouth

• Increased build up of plaque and tartar on the teeth

• Increased loss of bone within the jaw

• Increased risk of leukoplakia, white patches inside the mouth

• Increased risk of developing gum disease, a leading cause of tooth loss

• Delayed healing process following tooth extraction, periodontal treatment, or oral surgery

• Lower success rate of dental implant procedures

• Increased risk of developing oral cancer



How Does Smoking Lead to Gum Disease?

Smoking and other tobacco products can lead to gum disease by affecting the attachment of bone and soft tissue to your teeth. More specifically, it appears that smoking interferes with the normal function of gum tissue cells. This interference makes smokers more susceptible to infections, such as periodontal disease, and also seems to impair blood flow to the gums — which may affect wound healing.

Do Pipe and Cigar Smokers Experience Fewer Oral Health Risks Than Cigarette Smokers?

No, like cigarettes, pipes and cigars do lead to oral health problems. According to results of a 23-year long study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, cigar smokers experience tooth loss and alveolar bone loss (bone loss within the jawbone that anchors teeth) at rates equivalent to those of cigarette smokers. Pipe smokers also have a similar risk of tooth loss as cigarette smokers. Beyond these risks, pipe and cigar smokers are still at risk for oral and pharyngeal (throat) cancers – even if you don't inhale – as well as face the other oral health downsides of smoking – bad breath, stained teeth, and increased risk of periodontal (gum) disease.

Are Smokeless Tobacco Products Safer?

No. Like cigars and cigarettes, smokeless tobacco products (for example, snuff and chewing tobacco) contain at least 28 chemicals that have been shown to increase the risk of oral cancer and cancer of the throat and esophagus. In fact, chewing tobacco contains higher levels of nicotine than cigarettes, making it harder to quit than cigarettes. And one can of snuff delivers more nicotine than over 60 cigarettes.

Smokeless tobacco can irritate your gum tissue, causing it to recede or pull away from your teeth. Once the gum tissue recedes, your teeth roots become exposed, creating an increased risk of tooth decay. Exposed roots are also more sensitive to hot and cold or other irritants, making eating and drinking uncomfortable.

In addition, sugars, which are often added to enhance the flavor of smokeless tobacco, can increase your risk for tooth decay. A study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association showed that chewing tobacco users were four times more likely than nonusers to develop tooth decay.

Smokeless tobacco also typically contains sand and grit, which can wear down your teeth.

Kick the Tobacco Habit

Regardless of how long you have used tobacco products, quitting now can greatly reduce serious risks to your health. Eleven years after quitting, former smokers' likelihood of having periodontal (gum) disease was not significantly different from people who never smoked.

Even reducing the amount you smoke appears to help. One study found that smokers who reduced their smoking habit to less than half a pack a day had only three times the risk of developing gum disease compared with nonsmokers, which was significantly lower than the six times higher risk seen in those who smoked more than a pack and a half per day. Another study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association found that the mouth lesion leukoplakia completely resolved within 6 weeks of quitting in 97.5% of patients with these lesions who used smokeless tobacco products.

Some statistics from the American Cancer Society present some other sobering reasons to quit smoking. They state that:

• About 90% of people with cancer of the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat use tobacco, and the risk of developing these cancers increases with the amount smoked or chewed and the duration of the habit. Smokers are six times more likely than nonsmokers to develop these cancers.

• About 37% of patients who persist in smoking after apparent cure of their cancer will develop second cancers of the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat compared with only 6% of those who stop smoking.

How Can I Quit Tobacco?

To stop using tobacco, your dentist or doctor may be able to help you calm nicotine cravings with medications, such as nicotine gum and patches. Some of these products can be purchased over-the-counter; others require a prescription. Other medications (such as Zyban) require a prescription.

Smoking cessation classes and support groups are often used in tandem with drug therapy. These programs are offered through local hospitals in your community and sometimes through your employer or health insurance company. Ask your doctor or dentist for information on similar programs they may be familiar with.

Herbal remedies as well as hypnosis and acupuncture are other treatments that may help you kick the habit.


 
Source: www. webmd.com

Dental X-ray examinations provide valuable information that helps your dentist evaluate your oral health. With the help of radiographs (the term for pictures taken with X-rays), your dentist can look at what is happening beneath the surface of your teeth and gums. If you have questions about your dental X-ray exam, talk with your dentist.

How do dental X-rays work?

As X-rays pass through your mouth they are mostly absorbed by teeth and bone because these tissues, which are called hard tissues, are denser than cheeks and gums, which are called soft tissues. When X-rays strike the film or a digital sensor, an image called a radiograph is created. Radiographs allow your dentist to see hidden abnormalities, like tooth decay, infections and signs of gum disease, including changes in the bone and ligaments holding teeth in place

How often should radiographs be taken?

How often X-rays (radiographs) should be taken depends on your present oral health, your age, your risk for disease, and any signs and symptoms of oral disease you may be experiencing. For example, children may require X-rays more often than adults. This is because their teeth and jaws are still developing. Also their teeth are more likely to be affected by tooth decay than those of adults. Your dentist will review your history, examine your mouth and then decide whether or not you need radiographs.

If you are a new patient, the dentist may recommend radiographs to determine the present status of your oral health and to help identify changes that may occur later. A new set of X-rays may be needed to help your dentist detect any new cavities, determine the status of your gum health or evaluate the growth and development of your teeth. If a previous dentist has any radiographs of you, your new dentist may ask you for copies of them. Ask both dentists to help you with forwarding your X-rays.

What are the benefits of a dental radiograph examination?

Because many diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissues cannot be seen when your dentist examines your mouth, an X-ray examination can help reveal:
•small areas of decay between the teeth or below existing restorations (fillings);

•infections in the bone;

•periodontal (gum) disease;

•abscesses or cysts;

•developmental abnormalities;

•some types of tumors.

Finding and treating dental problems at an early stage can save time, money and unnecessary discomfort. Radiographs can help your dentist detect problems in your mouth that otherwise would not be seen.

How do dental X-rays compare to other sources of radiation?

The amount of radiation that we are exposed to from dental X-rays is very small compared to our daily exposure from things like, cosmic radiation and naturally-occurring radioactive elements (for example, those producing radon).
The table below compares our estimated exposure to radiation from dental X-ray with other various sources. As indicated below, a millisievert (mSv) is a unit of measure that allows for some comparison between radiation sources that expose the entire body (such as natural background radiation) and those that only expose a portion of the body (such as X-rays).


Man Made
Dental X-rays
Bitewing radiographs 0.038

Full-mouth series 0.150
Medical X-rays
Lower gastrointestinal tract radiography 4.060

Upper gastrointestinal tract radiography 2.440
Chest radiograph 0.080


Natural
Cosmic (Outer Space) Radiation
Average radiation from outer space In Denver, CO (per year)
0.510
Earth and Atmospheric Radiation
Average radiation in the U.S. from Natural sources (per year)
3.000

Source: Adapted from Frederiksen NL. X-Rays: What is the Risk? Texas Dental Journal. 1995;112(2):68-72.

What if I'm pregnant and need a dental radiograph examination?

A radiograph may be needed for dental treatment that can’t wait until after the baby is born. Because untreated dental infections can pose a risk to the fetus, dental treatment may be necessary to maintain the health of the mother and child. Radiation exposure resulting from dental X-rays is low. However, every precaution is taken to ensure that radiation exposure is As Low As Reasonable Achievable (the ALARA principle). A leaded apron minimizes exposure to the abdomen and should be used when any dental radiograph is taken. Also, a leaded thyroid collar can protect the thyroid from radiation, and should also be used whenever possible. The use of a leaded thyroid collar is recommended for women of childbearing age, pregnant women and children. Dental X-ray exams do not need to be delayed if you are trying to become pregnant or are breast feeding.

Source ADA.org

Overview

While many people think this trend looks cool, it has many possible and harmful side effects.

Common symptoms after oral piercing include pain, swelling, infection, an increased flow of saliva (“spit”) and injuries to the gums:
•Millions of bacteria (“germs”) live in your mouth, so oral piercings may become infected easily

•Swelling of the tongue is a common side effect but it is possible for the tongue to swell large enough to block your airway and prevent breathing.

•Piercing can cause uncontrollable bleeding and nerve damage. If a blood vessel was in the path of the needle during the piercing, severe and difficult-to-control bleeding can result.

•Blood clots or blood poisoning can occur

And the jewelry itself can be hazardous or cause other problems:
•You can choke on the studs, barbells or hoops that become loose in your mouth.

•Teeth can chip or crack from contact with the jewelry.

•Bacteria that breeds around the piercing can cause bad breath.

•The jewelry can prevent you from speaking clearly or cause problems with chewing and swallowing food.

•The metals may cause an allergic reaction.

Since oral health is important for overall health, the effects of an oral piercing may have a greater impact than one may think. Unfortunately, many people with oral piercings don't realize that these side effects could happen to them.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How can oral piercing be bad for your health?

Because your mouth contains millions of bacteria, infection is a common complication of oral piercing.
Pain and swelling are other side effects of piercing. Your tongue—a popular piercing site in the mouth—could swell large enough to close off your airway. Piercing also can cause uncontrollable bleeding or nerve damage.

The jewelry itself also presents some hazards. You can choke on any studs, barbells or hoops that come loose in your mouth, and contact with the jewelry can chip or crack your teeth.
source: ADA.org

Soda Attack: Soft Drinks, Especially Non-colas and Iced Tea, Hurt Hard Enamel

As summer temperatures rise so will people's thirst. Unfortunately, many people will grab a pop or iced tea instead of water. It isn't just cola's empty calories – about 150 per 12-ounce can – you should worry about. Many of these beverages harm enamel, the protective shell around teeth.

A pilot study of the effects some of these beverages had on enamel, appearing in the July/August 2004 issue of General Dentistry, the Academy of General Dentistry's (AGD) clinical, peer-reviewed journal, found that over time, exposing dental enamel to carbonated beverages and non-carbonated canned iced tea weakens and permanently destroys enamel.

Results from the study, which exposed healthy dental enamel to a variety of popular beverages over a period of 14 days, found that non-colas and canned iced tea were especially harmful. They contain flavor additives, such as malic, tartaric and other organic acids, which are more aggressive at eroding teeth. Root beer, which contains the least amount of flavor additives, was found to be the "safest soft drink to safeguard dental enamel."

About 27 percent of the beverages consumed by Americans are soft drinks, the study notes. Overall soft drink consumption has steadily increased over the years and remains on the rise, contributing to an increase in oral health problems, namely cavities. In 1977, 12- to 19-year-olds drank 16 ounces of soda a day. In 1996, this same age group consumed an average of 28 ounces a day.

Soda consumption has increased from approximately 20 gallons per person per year in 1970 to more than 50 gallons per person per year in 2004. The American Beverage Association has stated that soft drinks account for 28 percent of overall beverage consumption.

Soft drinks and canned beverages are constant features of daily life, and the approximately $50 billion the industry rakes in each year suggests it won't go away anytime soon. However, soda can be enjoyed in limited quantities. J. Anthony von Fraunhofer, MS, PhD, FADM, FRSC, lead author of the study, says that soda consumed "at meal times is less injurious than when consumed alone and continuous sipping is more harmful than the whole drink taken at one time."

According to AGD spokesperson Cynthia Sherwood, DDS, soda's combination of sugar and acidity can be damaging to teeth. Though the level of risk varies from person to person, Dr. Sherwood says, "Repeated exposure of soda through sipping over a long period of time increases the risk of getting a cavity."

Dr. Sherwood adds that drinking soda through a straw may help reduce the amount of soda that comes into direct contact with the teeth. She also recommends that soda drinkers rinse their mouths out with water after drinking and use toothpaste that contains fluoride.

Fact:

A typical 12-once can of regular soda contains approximately 10 teaspoons of sugar.

Why is Oral Health Important for Men?
Men are less likely than women to take care of their physical health and, according to surveys and studies, their oral health is equally ignored. Good oral health recently has been linked with longevity. Yet, one of the most common factors associated with infrequent dental checkups is just being male. Men are less likely than women to seek preventive dental care and often neglect their oral health for years, visiting a dentist only when a problem arises. When it comes to oral health, statistics show that the average man brushes his teeth 1.9 times a day and will lose 5.4 teeth by age 72. If he smokes, he can plan on losing 12 teeth by age 72. Men are also more likely to develop oral and throat cancer and periodontal (gum) disease.

Why is periodontal disease a problem?

Periodontal disease is a result of plaque, which hardens into a rough, porous substance called tartar. The acids produced and released by bacteria found in tartar irritate gums. These acids cause the breakdown of fibers that anchor the gums tightly to the teeth, creating periodontal pockets that fill with even more bacteria. Researchers have found a connection between gum disease and cardiovascular disease, which can place people at risk for heart attacks and strokes. See your dentist if you have any of these symptoms:

Bleeding gums during brushing

Red, swollen or tender gums

Persistent bad breath

Loose or separating teeth
Do you take medication?

Since men are more likely to suffer from heart attacks, they also are more likely to be on medications that can cause dry mouth. If you take medication for the heart or blood pressure, or if you take antidepressants, your salivary flow could be inhibited, increasing the risk for cavities. Saliva helps to reduce the cavity-causing bacteria found in your mouth.

Do you use tobacco?

If you smoke or chew, you have a greater risk for gum disease and oral cancer. Men are affected twice as often as women, and 95 percent of oral cancers occur in those over 40 years of age.

The most frequent oral cancer sites are the tongue, the floor of the mouth, soft palate tissues in back of the tongue, lips and gums. If not diagnosed and treated in its early stages, oral cancer can spread, leading to chronic pain, loss of function, irreparable facial and oral disfigurement following surgery and even death. More than 8,000 people die each year from oral and pharyngeal diseases. If you use tobacco, it is important to see a dentist frequently for cleanings and to ensure your mouth remains healthy. Your general dentist can perform a thorough screening for oral cancer.

Do you play sports?

If you participate in sports, you have a greater potential for trauma to your mouth and teeth. If you play contact sports, such as football, soccer, basketball and even baseball, it is important to use a mouthguard, which is a flexible appliance made of plastic that protects teeth from trauma. If you ride bicycles or motorcycles, wear a helmet.

Taking care of your teeth

To take better care of your oral health, it is important to floss daily, brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice daily and visit your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings. Here are some tips to better dental health:

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to reach every surface of each tooth. If the bristles on your toothbrush are bent or frayed, buy a new one.

Replace your toothbrush every three months or after you've been sick.

Choose a toothpaste with fluoride. This can reduce tooth decay by as much as 40 percent.

Brush properly. To clean the outside surfaces of your teeth, position the brush at a 45-degree angle where your gums and teeth meet. Gently move the brush in a circular motion using short, gentle strokes. To clean the inside surfaces of the upper and lower front teeth, hold the brush vertically. Make several gentle strokes over each tooth and its surrounding gum tissue. Spend at least three minutes brushing.

Floss properly. Gently insert floss between teeth using a back-and-forth motion. Do not force the floss or snap it into place. Curve the floss into a C-shape against one tooth and then the other.

How Does Diabetes Affect Oral Health?

It is estimated that up to 20 million people have diabetes, but only two-thirds of these individuals are diagnosed. Studies have shown that diabetics are more susceptible to the development of oral infections and periodontal (gum) disease than those who do not have diabetes. Oral infections tend to be more severe in diabetic patients than non-diabetic patients. And, diabetics who do not have good control over their blood sugar levels tend to have more oral health problems. These infections occur more often after puberty and in aging patients.

How are gum disease and diabetes related?

Because diabetes reduces the body's resistance to infection, the gums are at risk for gingivitis, an inflammation usually caused by the presence of bacteria in plaque. Plaque is the sticky film that accumulates on teeth both above and below the gum line. Without regular dental check-ups, gum disease may result if gingivitis is left untreated. It also can cause inflammation and destruction of tissues surrounding and supporting teeth, gums, bone and fibers that hold the gums to the teeth.

What other types of problems could I experience?

Diabetics may experience burning mouth syndrome and fungal infections, such as thrush and oral candidiasis. Dry mouth (xerostomia) also may develop, causing an increased incidence of decay. To prevent problems with bacterial infections in the mouth, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics, medicated mouth rinses and more frequent cleanings.

How can I stay healthy?

Make sure to take extra good care of your mouth and have dental infections treated immediately. Diabetics who receive good dental care and have good insulin control typically have a better chance at avoiding gum disease.

Diet and exercise may be the most important changes that diabetics can make to improve their quality of life and their oral health. Diabetic patients should be sure both their medical and dental care providers are aware of their medical history and periodontal status. To keep teeth and gums strong, diabetic patients should be aware of their blood sugar levels in addition to having their triglycerides and cholesterol levels checked on a regular basis. These may have a direct correlation on your chances of avoiding gum disease.

What is the best time to receive dental care?

If your blood sugar is not under control, talk with both your dentist and physician about receiving elective dental care. Dental procedures should be as short and as stress free as possible. Also make morning appointments because blood glucose levels tend to be under better control at this time of day. If you have a scheduled appointment, eat and take your medications as directed. See your dentist on a regular basis, keep him or her informed of your health status and keep your mouth in good health.

source: Knowyourteeth.com

Do I Really Need to Floss?


Yes. Floss removes plaque and debris that sticks to teeth and gums in between teeth, polishes tooth surfaces, and controls bad breath. Plaque is a sticky layer of material containing bacteria that accumulates on teeth, including places where toothbrushes can't reach. This can lead to gum disease. By flossing your teeth daily, you increase the chance of keeping them for a lifetime and decrease the chance of getting gum disease.

Why should I floss?

Floss removes plaque and debris that adhere to teeth and gums in between teeth, polishes tooth surfaces and controls bad breath. By flossing your teeth daily, you increase the chances of keeping your teeth a lifetime and decrease your chance of having periodontal (gum) disease and tooth decay.

Flossing is the single most important weapon against plaque, perhaps more important than the toothbrush. A toothbrush cleans the tops and sides of your teeth. Dental floss cleans between them. Some people use waterpicks, but floss is the best choice. Many people just don't spend enough time flossing and many have never been taught to floss properly. When you visit your dentist or hygienist, ask to be shown.
Which type of floss should I use?

Dental floss comes in many forms: waxed and unwaxed, flavored and unflavored, wide and regular. Wide floss, or dental tape, may be helpful for people with a lot of bridge work. Tapes are usually recommended when the spaces between teeth are wide. They all clean and remove plaque about the same. Waxed floss might be easier to slide between tight teeth or tight restorations. However, the unwaxed floss makes a squeaking sound to let you know your teeth are clean. Bonded unwaxed floss does not fray as easily as regular unwaxed floss but does tear more than waxed floss.

How should I floss?




There are two flossing methods: the spool method and the loop method. The spool method is suited for those with manual dexterity. Take an 18-inch piece of floss and wind the bulk of the floss lightly around the middle finger. (Don't cut off your finger's circulation!) Wind the rest of the floss similarly around the same finger of the opposite hand. This finger takes up the floss as it becomes soiled or frayed. Maneuver the floss between teeth with your index fingers and thumbs. Don't pull it down hard against your gums or you will hurt them. Don't rub it side to side as if you're shining shoes. Bring the floss up and down several times, forming a "C" shape around the tooth and being sure to go below the gumline.
The loop method is suited for children or adults with less nimble hands, poor muscular coordination or arthritis. Take an 18-inch piece of floss and make it into a circle. Tie it securely with three knots. Place all of the fingers, except the thumb, within the loop. Use your index fingers to guide the floss through the lower teeth, and use your thumbs to guide the floss through the upper teeth, going below the gumline and forming a "C" on the side of the tooth.

How often should I floss?

At least once a day. To give your teeth a good flossing, spend at least two or three minutes.

What are floss holders?
You may prefer a prethreaded flosser or floss holder, which often looks like a little hacksaw. Flossers are handy for people with limited dexterity, for those who are just beginning to floss or for caretakers who are flossing someone else's teeth.

Is it safe to use toothpick?
In a pinch, toothpicks are effective at removing food between teeth, but for daily cleaning of plaque between teeth, floss is recommended. When you use a toothpick, don't press too hard, as you can break off the end and lodge it in your gums.
Do I need a waterpick (irrigating device)?
Don't use waterpicks as a substitute for brushing and flossing. But they are effective around areas of dental restorations and orthodontic braces, which retain food in areas where a toothbrush cannot reach. However, they do not remove plaque. Waterpicks are frequently recommended by dentists for persons with gum disease.

What Are Invisalign Braces?

Invisalign braces are the invisible way to straighten your teeth without metal braces.
These braces use a series of clear removable aligners to straighten your teeth without metal wires or brackets like traditional dental braces.


Invisalign invisible braces have been proven effective in clinical research and in orthodontics practices nationwide. In fact, over 70% of all U.S. orthodontists & some dentist are certified to treat patients with Invisalign clear braces. We are proud to be one of these practices.

How Do Invisalign Braces Work?

You wear each set of aligners for about 2 weeks, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss.


As you replace each Invisalign aligner with the next in the series, your teeth will move - little by little, week by week - until they have straightened to the final position your orthodontist has prescribed.


You'll visit our office about once every 6 weeks to ensure that your Invisalign braces treatment is progressing as planned.


Total treatment time averages 9-15 months and the average number of Invisalign aligners worn during treatment is between 18 and 30, but both will vary from case to case.

How Are Invisalign Aligners Made? You'd Be Amazed...

The Invisalign aligners are made through a combination of your dentist's expertise and 3-D computer imaging technology.

Are you ready to schedule? Give us a call at 704-596-0021 or request an appointment by going to our website at: http://www.mallardcreekfd.com/

Everybody loves a bright white smile, and there are a variety of products and procedures available to help you improve the look of yours.

Many people are satisfied with the sparkle they get from brushing twice daily with a fluoride-containing toothpaste, cleaning between their teeth once a day and the regular cleanings at your dentist’s office. If you decide you would like to go beyond this to make your smile look brighter, you should investigate all of your options.

You can take several approaches to whiten your smile:

•In-office bleaching;
•At-home bleaching;
•Whitening toothpastes

Frequently Asked Questions

What should you ask your dentist?
You may want to start by speaking with your dentist. He or she can tell you whether whitening procedures would be effective for you. Whiteners may not correct all types of discoloration. For example, yellow-ish hued teeth will probably bleach well, brownish-colored teeth may bleach less well, and grayish-hued teeth may not bleach well at all. Likewise, bleaching may not enhance your smile if you have had bonding or tooth-colored fillings placed in your front teeth. The whitener will not affect the color of these materials, and they will stand out in your newly whitened smile. In these cases, you may want to investigate other options, like porcelain veneers or dental bonding.


What is in-office bleaching?
If you are a candidate for bleaching, your dentist may suggest a procedure that can be done in his or her office. This procedure is called chairside bleaching and a visit may take up to 2 hours.

During chairside bleaching, the dentist will apply either a protective gel to your gums or a rubber shield to protect the oral soft tissues. A bleaching agent is then applied to the teeth, and a special light may be used to enhance the action of the agent. Lasers have been used during tooth whitening procedures to enhance the action of the whitening agent.


What are at-home procedures and products?
There are several types of products available for use at home, which can either be dispensed by your dentist or purchased over-the-counter.

Bleaching solutions. These products contain peroxide(s), which actually bleach the tooth enamel. These products typically rely on percent carbamide peroxide as the bleaching agent, carbamide peroxide comes in several different concentrations (10%, 16%, 22%).


You also may want to speak with your dentist should any side effects become bothersome. For example, teeth can become sensitive during the period when you are using the bleaching solution. In many cases, this sensitivity is temporary and should lessen once the treatment is finished. Some people also experience soft tissue irritation—either from a tray that doesn't fit properly or from solution that may come in contact with the tissues. If you have concerns about such side effects, you should discuss them with your dentist.

Toothpastes. All toothpastes help remove surface stain through the action of mild abrasives. "Whitening" toothpastes in the ADA Seal of Acceptance program have special chemical or polishing agents that provide additional stain removal effectiveness. Unlike bleaches, these ADA Accepted products do not alter the intrinsic color of teeth.


How should I choose a whitening product?
When selecting a whitener or any dental product, be sure to look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance—your assurance that they have met ADA standards of safety and effectiveness.

Mallard Creek Family Dentistry offers Zoom AP In Office Whitening.
Click on the link above to to view an interactive demo of Zoom! Simply select your current tooth shade on the interactive demo to see what a difference Zoom! safely whitens teeth an average of 8 shades.

Are you ready to schedule? Give us a call at 704-596-0021 or request an appointment by going to our website at:http://www.mallardcreekfd.com/

Source: www.ada.org &  Zoomnow.com