Dentist

October 1st, 2007 - No Responses

Good news about progress against cancer. It is now easier than ever to detect oral cancer early, when the opportunity for a cure is great. Currently only half of all patients diagnosed with oral cancer survive more than five years.Your dentist has the skills and tools to ensure that early signs of cancer and pre-cancerous conditions are identified. You and your dentist can fight and win the battle against oral cancer. Know the early signs and see your dentist regularly.

You Should Know

  • Oral Cancer often starts as a tiny, unnoticed white or red spot or sore anywhere in the mouth.
  • It can affect any area of the oral cavity including the lips, gum tissue, check lining, tongue and the hard or soft palate.
  • Other signs include:
    • A sore that bleeds easily or does not heal
    • A color change of the oral tissues
    • A lump, thickening, rough spot, crust or small eroded area
    • Pain, tenderness, or numbness anywhere in the mouth or on the lips
    • Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving the jaw or tongue.
    • A change in the way the teeth fit together
  • Oral Cancer most often occurs in those who use tobacco in any form.
  • Alcohol use combined with smoking greatly increases risk.
  • Prolonged exposure to the sun increases the risk of lip cancer.
  • More than 25% of oral cancers occur in people who do not smoke and have no other risk factors.
  • Oral Cancer is more likely to strike after age 40.
  • Studies suggest that a diet high in fruits and vegetables may prevent the development of potentially cancerous lesions.

Regular Dental Check-ups Important

Regular dental check-ups, including an examination of the entire mouth, are essential in the early detection of cancerous and pre-cancerous conditions. You may have a very small, but dangerous, oral spot or sore and not be aware of it.

Your dentist will carefully examine all areas of your mouth. In about 10% of patients, the dentist may notice a flat, painless, white or red spot or a small sore. Although most of these are harmless, some are not. Harmful oral spots or sores often look identical to those that are harmless – testing can tell them apart. If you have a sore with a likely cause, your dentist may treat it and ask you to return for re-examination.

Dentists often will notice a spot or sore that looks harmless and does not have a clear cause. To ensure that a spot or sore is not dangerous, your dentist may choose to perform a simple test, such as a brush biopsy, which usually is painless and can detect potentially dangerous cells when the disease is still at an early stage.

If your dentist notices something that looks very suspicious and dangerous, a scalpel biopsy may be recommended. This usually requires local anesthesia. Your general dentist may perform this procedure or refer you to a specialist for it. ada resource

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Kirkland Dentist

September 19th, 2007 - No Responses

To fix a cavity, it is required that your Kirkland dentist remove the decayed portion of the tooth and then “fill” the area on the tooth where the decayed material once lived.

Fillings are also used to repair cracked or broken teeth and teeth that have been worn down from misuse (such as from nail-biting or tooth grinding ).

What Steps Are Involved in Filling a Tooth?

First, the Kirkland dentist will numb the area around the tooth to be worked on with a local anesthetic. Next, a drill, air abrasion instrument or laser will be used to remove the decayed area. The choice of instrument depends on the individual Kirkland dentist’s comfort level, training, and investment in the particular piece of equipment as well as location and extent of the decay.

Next, your Kirkland dentist will probe or test the area during the decay removal process to determine if all the decay has been removed. Once the decay has been removed, your Cosmeitc dentist will prepare the space for the filling by cleaning the cavity of bacteria and debris. If the decay is near the root, your dentist may first put in a liner made of glass ionomer, composite resin, or other material to protect the nerve. Generally, after the filling is in, your cosmetic dentist will finish and polish it.

Several additional steps are required for tooth-colored fillings and are as follows. After your cosmetic dentist has removed the decay and cleaned the area, the tooth-colored material is applied in layers. Next, a special light that “cures” or hardens each layer is applied. When the multilayering process is completed, your cosmetic dentist will shape the composite material to the desired result, trim off any excess material and polish the final restoration.

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Dentist

September 13th, 2007 - No Responses

periodontal (gum) disease

This condition can be diagnosed by a seattle dentist. If you have been told you have periodontal (gum) disease, you’re not alone. An estimated 80 percent of American adults currently have some form of the disease.

Periodontal (gum) diseases, including gingivitis and periodontitis, are serious infections that, left untreated, can lead to tooth loss. The word periodontal literally means “around the tooth.” Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth.

Periodontal disease can affect one tooth or many teeth. It begins when the bacteria in plaque (the sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth) causes the gums to become inflamed says a dentist.

In the mildest form of the disease, gingivitis, the gums redden, swell and bleed easily. There is usually little or no discomfort. Gingivitis is often caused by inadequate oral hygiene. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good oral home care.

Untreated gingivitis can advance to periodontitis. With time, plaque can spread and grow below the gum line. Toxins produced by the bacteria in plaque irritate the gums. The toxins stimulate a chronic inflammatory response in which the body in essence turns on itself, and the tissues and bone that support the teeth are broken down and destroyed. Gums separate from the teeth, forming pockets (spaces between the teeth and gums) that become infected. As the disease progresses, the pockets deepen and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed. Often, this destructive process has very mild symptoms. Eventually, teeth can become loose and may have to be removed.

Causes of Periodontal Disease

The main cause of periodontal disease is bacterial plaque, a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth. However, factors like the following also affect the health of your gums.

Smoking/Tobacco Use
As you probably already know, tobacco use is linked with many serious illnesses such as cancer, lung disease and heart disease, as well as numerous other health problems says a cosmetic dentist. What you may not know is that tobacco users also are at increased risk for periodontal disease. In fact, recent studies have shown that tobacco use may be one of the most significant risk factors in the development and progression of periodontal disease says a cosmetic dentist.

As you probably already know, tobacco use is linked with many serious illnesses such as cancer, lung disease and heart disease, as well as numerous other health problems says a cosmetic dentist. What you may not know is that tobacco users also are at increased risk for periodontal disease. In fact, recent studies have shown that tobacco use may be one of the most significant risk factors in the development and progression of periodontal disease says a cosmetic dentist. Genetics
Research proves that up to 30% of the population may be genetically susceptible to gum disease. Despite aggressive oral care habits, these people may be six times more likely to develop periodontal disease. Identifying these people with a genetic test before they even show signs of the disease and getting them into early interventive treatment by a cosmetic dentist or Seattle dentist may help them keep their teeth for a lifetime.

Research proves that up to 30% of the population may be genetically susceptible to gum disease. Despite aggressive oral care habits, these people may be six times more likely to develop periodontal disease. Identifying these people with a genetic test before they even show signs of the disease and getting them into early interventive treatment by a cosmetic dentist or Seattle dentist may help them keep their teeth for a lifetime.Pregnancy and Puberty
As a woman, you know that your health needs are unique. You know that brushing and flossing daily, a healthy diet, and regular exercise are all important to help you stay in shape says a cosmetic dentist. You also know that at specific times in your life, you need to take extra care of yourself. Times when you mature and change, for example, puberty or menopause, and times when you have special health needs, such as menstruation or pregnancy. During these particular times, your body experiences hormonal changes. These changes can affect many of the tissues in your body, including your gums. Your gums can become sensitive, and at times react strongly to the hormonal fluctuations says a cosmetic dentist and Seattle dentist. This may make you more susceptible to gum disease. Additionally, recent studies suggest that pregnant women with gum disease are seven times more likely to deliver preterm, low birth weight babies.

As a woman, you know that your health needs are unique. You know that brushing and flossing daily, a healthy diet, and regular exercise are all important to help you stay in shape says a cosmetic dentist. You also know that at specific times in your life, you need to take extra care of yourself. Times when you mature and change, for example, puberty or menopause, and times when you have special health needs, such as menstruation or pregnancy. During these particular times, your body experiences hormonal changes. These changes can affect many of the tissues in your body, including your gums. Your gums can become sensitive, and at times react strongly to the hormonal fluctuations says a cosmetic dentist and Seattle dentist. This may make you more susceptible to gum disease. Additionally, recent studies suggest that pregnant women with gum disease are seven times more likely to deliver preterm, low birth weight babies.Stress
As you probably already know, stress is linked to many serious conditions such as hypertension, cancer, and numerous other health problems. What you may not know is that stress also is a risk factor for periodontal disease. Research demonstrates that stress can make it more difficult for the body to fight off infection, including periodontal diseases says a cosmetic dentist.

As you probably already know, stress is linked to many serious conditions such as hypertension, cancer, and numerous other health problems. What you may not know is that stress also is a risk factor for periodontal disease. Research demonstrates that stress can make it more difficult for the body to fight off infection, including periodontal diseases says a cosmetic dentist.
Some drugs, such as oral contraceptives, anti-depressants, and certain heart medicines, can affect your oral health. Just as you notify your cosmetic dentist or Seattle dentist and other health care providers of all medicines you are taking and any changes in your overall health, you should also inform your dental care provider.

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Cosmetic Dentist

September 12th, 2007 - No Responses
Space Maintainers can prevent need for braces
One treatment that may reduce or eliminate the need for braces in the future is a space maintainer.
When a child reaches the sixth or seventh grade, one of the most common questions asked by parents is whether their son or daughter will need braces. Braces are an important part of modern dental care in that they straighten teeth and can help bring the lips and jaws into proper alignment during growth and development. They also represent a considerable expense (several thousand dollars) and require about two years of treatment for the child. Often, it is the family or pediatric (children only) seattle dentist who has cared for the child since age one or two that can have a big impact over his or her upcoming dental needs. One treatment that may reduce or eliminate the need for braces in the future is a space maintainer.
A space maintainer is a device that saves room in the mouth for the adult teeth when the baby teeth come out too early. Ideally, baby teeth should be preserved until the adult teeth push them out naturally. Baby teeth are important for a child to eat comfortably and also to save space for the adult teeth. When they must be removed due to extensive cavities or injury, a space maintainer is usually necessary. Space maintainers can be either permanent or removable. Although there are many types of space maintainers, one commonly used is called the band and loop. The procedure to make a band and loop space maintainer is relatively simple. The dentist takes a mold of the child’s mouth. A laboratory then makes the space maintainer, which consists of two parts. There is a band that fits around the tooth behind the missing one, and a loop or brace that goes over the gum where the missing tooth was and then rests against a tooth in front of it. When the band is cemented on the tooth, it prevents the teeth from moving into the space where the missing tooth was, and allows the adult tooth enough space to grow into the proper position. The space maintainer should then be evaluated by the dentist at every check-up appointment and should be removed when the adult teeth are visible and have poked through the gum.
Space maintainers are necessary when baby teeth are lost prematurely, usually up until a year or so before the adult tooth comes in. The decision of when to place a space maintainer is up to your dentist, but their use can sometimes reduce or eliminate the need for braces in the future.

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Dentist

September 11th, 2007 - No Responses

The term “TMJ Dysfunction” describes an imbalance in the relationship of the jaw to the skull. This imbalance causes two problems for those that suffer from it. First, it leads to improper alignment of the Temporomandibular Joints (TMJs) which connect these two bones. Secondly, it creates disharmony in the muscles which attach to the bones. The cascade of painful symptoms that arise solely from these two problems is staggering to most people. Although most times the pain is not actually in the TMJs themselves, you can feel your own by pressing your fingers just in front of your ears and opening and closing your mouth.

 

Testimonials

I have suffered from constant neck and back pain for 8 years. I have tried every manner of relief/cure that I could find. This has included extensive Chiropractic work, physical therapy, acupuncture, posture studies, massage and regime of anti-inflammatories and muscle relaxants.

The last doctor I saw is one of the premier neck and spine specialist in the Puget Sound region. After exhaustive testing that included a CAT scan and real-time, full motion X-Rays, he concluded that there were no structural problems with my spine or connecting soft-tissue. His advice was that I begin taking drugs for chronic pain management. In short, I was 34 and being told I would be on pain medication and at limited capacity for the rest of my life.

Shortly after this, I came to Dr. Keller’s TMJ clinic. I had cracks in three of my back teeth due to my long habit of grinding my teeth at night. Several of my officemates were patients of Dr. Keller and had recommended him to me.

During my initial consultation with Dr. Keller, he pointed out to me the unnatural orientation of my lower and upper teeth to one another. It was not something I had not noticed before. After the work for my cracked teeth was finished, he ran some additional tests on the neurology of my bite. After about 15 minutes of testing, he looked at me and asked “do you have chronic neck pain?”

During successive visits, Dr. Keller mapped the three dimensional relationship of my jaw to the corresponding muscular response. From this data, he made a retainer for my lower jaw that oriented my bite so that my jaw and neck muscles rested at neutral when I closed my mouth. Within 2 days of wearing the retainer, I was 100% pain free.

The retainer was a temporary “place holder” for were my jaw should rest permanently. Once Dr. Keller had determined that this was the correct orientation, he stabilized my jaw into a position that was healthy for my muscles and joints. I now have a comfortable bite, a stronger, more attractive jaw-line and above all a ticket back to the active pain-free life I had abandoned 8 years earlier. All of this accomplished with no surgery in merely a few appointments.

It is difficult to express the length of my gratitude towards Dr. Keller and his team. Aside from the relief of 8 years of pain, he and his team successfully balanced the ability to remain consummate professionals while keeping a warm and inviting personal relationship. It is the only clinic I have ever visited where I was greeted by name. They care about their work, their results and their patents. I could not recommend them any more highly.

 

For the past four years I’ve desperately searched for relief from my chronic headaches. I tried cold packs, nerve testing, MRI, anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxers, ultrasound, stellate ganglion blocks and the list goes on. Unfortunately nothing helped and I began to lose all hope. The suffering was effecting my life to the extent that I almost lost my job from missing too many days. Luckily for me I found Dr. Keller on the internet. He told me he’d had numerous cases of chronic headache sufferers that he’d successfully helped, so I decided to try his treatment. Within 4 days of Dr. Keller’s occlusion therapy I’d already noticed dramatic improvements in my symptoms. Now, 3 months later, my symptoms have vanished and it has changed my whole life back around. Thank you for your encouragement and skill in lifing this pain from my body and soul.

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Cosmetic Dentist

September 11th, 2007 - No Responses
How can my dentist improve my smile?
From subtle changes to major repairs, your seattle dentist can perform a variety of procedures to improve your smile. There are many techniques and options to treat teeth that are discolored, chipped, misshapen or missing. Your seattle dentist can reshape your teeth, close spaces, restore worn or short teeth or alter the length of your teeth. Common procedures include bleaching, bonding, caps, crowns, veneers, and reshaping and contouring.

These improvements are not always cosmetic. Many of these treatments can improve oral problems, such as your bite.

Bleaching
Bleaching is a common and popular chemical process used to whiten teeth. Some people get their teeth bleached to make stains disappear, while other just want a whiter shade.

Discoloration occurs in the enamel and can be caused by medication, coffee, tea and cigarettes. Discoloration also can be caused by your genetic make-up or simply getting older.

Bleaching can be performed by your seattle dentist in the office or, under dental supervision, at home. Many patients enjoy bleaching at home because it is more convenient. Treatment begins when your dentist creates a custom mouthpiece to ensure the correct amount of whitening solution-10 percent to 20 percent carbamide peroxide-is used and that your teeth are properly exposed. Typically, whitening at home takes two or three weeks, depending on the desired shade you wish to achieve. Whitening in the office may call for two to six 45-minute visits to your seattle dentist’s office.

Bonding
Bonding is tooth-colored material used to fill in gaps or change the color of teeth. Requiring a single office visit, bonding lasts several years. Bonding is more susceptible to staining or chipping than other forms of restoration. When teeth are chipped or slightly decayed, bonded composite resins may be the material of choice. Bonding also is used as a tooth-colored filling for small cavities and broken or chipped surfaces. Additionally, it can be used to close spaces between teeth or cover the entire outside surface of a tooth to change its color and shape.

Crowns, also known as caps, are used in cases where other procedures will not be effective. Crowns have the longest life expectancy of all cosmetic restorations, but are the most time consuming.

Veneers
Veneers are placed over the front teeth to change color or shape of your teeth. Veneers are used on teeth with uneven surfaces or are chipped, discolored, oddly shaped, unevenly spaced or crooked. Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain or plastic cemented over the front of your teeth. Little or no anesthesia is needed. Veneers are used to treat some of the same problems as bonding.

This treatment is an alternative to crowns, which are more expensive. The procedure requires your seattle dentist to take an impression of your tooth. Before the custom-made veneer is glued directly onto the tooth, your dentist will lightly buff the tooth to compensate for the added thickness of the veneer. Once the cement is between the veneer and your tooth, a light beam is used to harden it. Porcelain veneers require more than one visit because they are fabricated in a laboratory. Veneers have a longer life expectancy and color stability than bonding.

Contouring and reshaping
Tooth reshaping and contouring, is a procedure to correct crooked teeth, chipped teeth, cracked teeth or even overlapping teeth in a single session. Tooth reshaping and dental contouring, is commonly used to alter the length, shape or position of your teeth. Contouring teeth may also help correct small problems with bite. It is common for bonding to be combined with tooth reshaping.

This procedure is ideal for candidates with normal healthy teeth, but who want subtle changes to their smile. Your seattle dentist will take X-rays to evaluate the size and location of the pulp of each tooth to ensure that there’s enough bone between the teeth to support them.

Which procedure is right for me?
Your dentist can answer many of the questions you may have about techniques used to improve your smile. The condition of your teeth and desired result you want often dictates the best procedure. If you are considering a treatment, there are a few questions you can ask your seattle dentist before deciding if a particular procedure is right for you.

What will the changes look like?
What should I expect through the course of treatment?
What type of maintenance will be required?
Your dentist will answer questions you may have about the procedure, maintenance and price to help you choose the treatment that best suits you.


What are “dental veneers”?
  Dental Veneers can be a less expensive and less invasive alternative to crowns. They are an ideal choice for people with severe staining and discoloration caused by coffee, soda or cigarettes. They can also be used to correct crooked, chipped, misshapen and oddly shaped teeth. Unlike tooth crowns, Veneers do not require the dentist to remove much of the tooth itself although in certain circumstances removing a part of the tooth might be necessary. Be sure to discuss these requirements with your dentist before the procedure. Veneers will not stain and they are very durable, lasting anywhere from ten to fifteen years and they are perfect for people looking to acquire a pleasant smile.

The first step in getting tooth veneers is to have your seattle dentist cast moldings of your teeth. Once these moldings are cast, the veneers themselves are created. Veneers are essentially thin slices of porcelain or plastic molded to the shape of your teeth. The dentist will then lightly buff the outer layer of your teeth to allow for the added thickness of the veneer. In certain cases, he may also have to remove a part of your tooth. The dentist will then use cement to bond the veneer to your tooth. Be sure to request a temporary placement in the beginning to make sure you are happy with the results. Once you are satisfied with your new smile, the cosmetic dentist will then cleanse your teeth with chemicals and replace your veneers using a permanent cement and a light beam to achieve a durable bond.

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periodontal disease

September 5th, 2007 - No Responses
Periodontal disease, most commonly known as gum disease, encompasses diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to damage of the bone around the tooth, known as the alveolar bone. Proper nutrition and dental practices are important in preventing the onset of gum disease.
A variety of symptoms accompany periodontal disease. Unfortunately, many Americans may already have the disease and not even know it. Because early stages of the disease do not exhibit symptoms to your, it is important to maintain proper dental care before it is too late.
Most commonly, pain, tenderness, and swelling of the gum areas are telltale signs of periodontal disease. If you experience bleeding, pus, or constant bad breath, a dentist should be consulted immediately as they are signs of worsening conditions. Gum disease should be detected early to prevent having to undergo painful procedures that may be irreversible.
Periodontal disease may be contributed by a variety of factors. Improper bite, such as an underbite or an overbite may irritate gums and cause gums to be inflamed. Also, excessive grinding of the teeth can lead to wear and tear of the gums and teeth. Preventative measures, such as wearing a rubber mouthgard, and of course proper brushing and flossing, are essential to maintaining healthy gums and teeth.    

    

Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. Your gum tissue is not attached to the teeth as high as it may seem. There is a very shallow v-shaped crevice called a sulcus between the tooth and gums. Periodontal diseases found by seattle dentist attack just below the gum line in the sulcus, where they cause the attachment of the tooth and its supporting tissues to break down. As the tissues are damaged, the sulcus develops into a pocket: generally, the more severe the disease, the greater the depth of the pocket.
Periodontal diseases are classified according to the severity of the disease. The two major stages are gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is a milder and reversible form of periodontal disease that only affects the gums. Gingivitis may lead to more serious, destructive forms of periodontal disease called periodontitis.
Some factors increase the risk of developing periodontal disease:
 Tobacco smoking or chewing
 Systemic diseases such as diabetes
 Some types of medication such as steroids, some types of anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, some calcium channel blockers and oral contraceptives
 Bridges that no longer fit properly
 Crooked teeth
 Fillings that have become defective
 Pregnancy or use of oral contraceptives
Several warning signs that can signal a problem:
 Gums that bleed easily
 Red, swollen, tender gums
 Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
 Persistent bad breath or bad taste
 Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
 Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
 Any change in the fit of partial dentures
It is possible to have periodontal disease and have no warning signs. That is one reason why regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are very important. Treatment methods depend upon the type of disease and how far the condition has progressed. Good oral hygiene at home is essential to help keep periodontal disease from becoming more serious or recurring. You don’t have to lose teeth to periodontal disease. Brush, clean between your teeth, eat a balanced diet, and schedule regular visits to your seattle dentist for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Periostat, a new drug for the war against gum disease
   

Periodontal or gum disease is an infection that causes bleeding gums, bad breath, loose teeth, and teeth that fall out. A bacterial film visible to your seattle dentist called plaque that continuously forms around the teeth and gums causes gum disease. An estimated 56 million Americans suffer from gum disease, the main reason people lose their teeth.
The leading treatments for gum disease are scaling and root planing (deep cleaning of the gums) and surgical gum treatment in more advanced cases. Antibiotics are sometimes used in conjunction with these other therapies, often with the goal of killing bacteria that is causing the gum disease. Recently, there is a new drug, which instead focuses on controlling our body’s reaction to these bacteria. The new drug is called Periostat.
To understand how Periostat works, we need to have some understanding of how bacteria in the mouth cause the loss of gum tissue and bone around the teeth. Oral bacteria cause a chronic infection in the mouth of people with gum disease. This infection causes the body to release chemical substances called cytokines, which in turn cause a cascade of reactions within the gum and surrounding tissue. One of the substances released is a family of enzymes known as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). One of the MMPs is collagenase, an enzyme that breaks down the gum and bone.
Periostat is a new application of a not so new drug, doxycycline. Doxycycline is a derivative of tetracycline. Periostat is a 20mg. capsule of doxycycline that should be taken twice a day over several months. Periostat helps to inhibit the body’s production of the destructive collagenase. Unlike higher doses of doxycycline or tetracycline that can be used to prevent the multiplication of some bacteria associated with gum disease, Periostat protects our body’s “over-reaction” to bacteria, and its lower dose has far fewer side effects.
Periostat is not intended to replace the need for excellent oral hygiene, or other traditional gum treatment. It is a drug that clinical research has shown will modestly improve gum disease when taken in conjunction with professional deep cleaning at your seattle dentist of the gums and a thorough oral hygiene regimen.
     

How to Prevent Baby Bottle Cavities
Your one-and-a-half year-old can’t tell you what’s wrong yet, but recently he has started crying during meals and pointing to his front teeth. He has trouble falling asleep, and wakes up crying, touching his teeth. At first you think he must be teething again, but then you remember that his upper front teeth have been there for more than half a year. With a little effort, you lift up your child’s lip and see, to your amazement, brown and black discoloration and small chips on the sides of his front teeth. You thought that taking your baby to the dentist was something you could wait to do until he was four or five. Now, out of desperation, you call your seattle dentist to set up an appointment.
This situation is more common than you might expect. The main culprit for this condition, called “baby bottle cavities”, is the habit of putting a baby to sleep with a bottle containing milk, juice, or other sweetened beverage. Most often, it is the upper teeth are involved in “baby bottle cavities” because the tongue usually protects the lower teeth during bottle-feeding. As a parent of a small child myself, I can certainly understand the temptation of giving your crying child the bottle to get him or her to go to sleep. The problem is that milk or other carbohydrate containing liquids stay on the teeth and allow bacteria that are normally present in the mouth to attack the teeth by forming “plaque acids”. These acids create holes in the teeth (cavities) and can lead to deeper infections of the tiny nerves within them. The susceptibility to cavities is also increased because the flow of protective saliva is greatly reduced during sleep (that is why it is so important to brush your teeth before bed). These infections can cause your child pain, and will require immediate treatment.
The most effective way to deal with this potential problem is by recalling Benjamin Franklin’s adage, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. Prevention, in this case, involves not putting your child to bed with a bottle that contains milk or any other sweetened beverage. If your child must use a bottle, try using water or something unsweetened, otherwise use a pacifier to substitute for the bottle. You should also clean your baby’s teeth with a moist cloth (from 6-12 months) or a child-sized toothbrush with a tiny amount of toothpaste (from 1-4 years) before bed. seattle dentist Your dentist should evaluate teeth damaged from “baby bottle cavities” as soon as possible. In some cases, the cavities can be repaired with tooth-colored fillings or small child-sized crowns (caps). Teeth that are badly infected may have to be extracted. It is also a good idea to have your child evaluated by a seattle at the time of his or her first birthday.

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

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Halitosis

June 28th, 2007 - No Responses

Halitosis

Most bad breath (halitosis) comes from something in the mouth. Food sticks between your teeth, around the gums and on your tongue. If you don’t brush and floss your teeth every day, this food can rot. The rotten bits of food cause a bad smell in your mouth. Rotten food also helps bacteria to grow in your mouth. This bacteria can cause gum disease, or gingivitis. Gingivitis also causes bad breath.

The things you eat and drink affect your breath. Common examples of foods and beverages that may cause bad breath include onions, garlic, cheese, pastrami, certain spices, orange juice and soda. Once food is digested and its oils are absorbed into the bloodstream, they’re carried into the lungs. The odor is given off in your breath. Bad breath may also be a sign of a health problem. Chronic lung infections, liver or kidney diseases and diabetes are some conditions that may cause bad breath.

Whether you call it bad breath or halitosis, it’s an unpleasant condition that’s cause for embarrassment. Some people with bad breath aren’t even aware there’s a problem. If you’re concerned about bad breath, see your dentist. He or she can help identify the cause and, if it’s due to an oral condition, develop a treatment plan to help eliminate it.

What you eat affects the air you exhale. Certain foods, such as garlic and onions, contribute to objectionable breath odor. Once the food is absorbed into the bloodstream, it is transferred to the lungs, where it is expelled. Brushing, flossing and mouthwash will only mask the odor temporarily. Odors continue until the body eliminates the food. Dieters may develop unpleasant breath from infrequent eating.

Certain foods, such as garlic and onions, contribute to objectionable breath odor. Once the food is absorbed into the bloodstream, it is transferred to the lungs, where it is expelled. Brushing, flossing and mouthwash will only mask the odor temporarily. Odors continue until the body eliminates the food. Dieters may develop unpleasant breath from infrequent eating.If you don’t brush and floss daily, particles of food remain in the mouth, collecting bacteria, which can cause bad breath. Food that collects between the teeth, on the tongue and around the gums can rot, leaving an unpleasant odor.

Bad breath can also be caused by dry mouth (xerostomia), which occurs when the flow of saliva decreases. Saliva is necessary to cleanse the mouth and remove particles that may cause odor. Dry mouth may be caused by various medications, salivary gland problems or continuously breathing through the mouth. If you suffer from dry mouth, your dentist may prescribe anartificial saliva, or suggest using sugarless candy and increasing your fluid intake.

, which occurs when the flow of saliva decreases. Saliva is necessary to cleanse the mouth and remove particles that may cause odor. Dry mouth may be caused by various medications, salivary gland problems or continuously breathing through the mouth. If you suffer from dry mouth, your dentist may prescribe anartificial saliva, or suggest using sugarless candy and increasing your fluid intake.Tobacco products cause bad breath. If you use tobacco, ask your dentist for tips on kicking the habit.

If you use tobacco, ask your dentist for tips on kicking the habit.Bad breath may be the sign of a medical disorder, such as a local infection in the respiratory tract, chronic sinusitis, postnasal drip, chronic bronchitis, diabetes, gastrointestinal disturbance, liver or kidney ailment. If your dentist determines that your mouth is healthy, you may be referred to your family doctor or a specialist to determine the cause of bad breath.

, such as a local infection in the respiratory tract, chronic sinusitis, postnasal drip, chronic bronchitis, diabetes, gastrointestinal disturbance, liver or kidney ailment. If your dentist determines that your mouth is healthy, you may be referred to your family doctor or a specialist to determine the cause of bad breath.Maintaining good oral health is essential to reducing bad breath. Schedule regular dental visits for a professional cleaning and checkup. If you think you have constant bad breath, keep a log of the foods you eat and make a list of medications you take. Some medications may play a role in creating mouth odors. Let your dentist know if you’ve had any surgery or illness since your last appointment.

Schedule regular dental visits for a professional cleaning and checkup. If you think you have constant bad breath, keep a log of the foods you eat and make a list of medications you take. Some medications may play a role in creating mouth odors. Let your dentist know if you’ve had any surgery or illness since your last appointment.Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove food debris and plaque. Brush your tongue, too. Once a day, use floss or an interdental cleaner to clean between teeth.

to remove food debris and plaque. Brush your tongue, too. to clean between teeth.Mouthwashes are generally cosmetic and do not have a long-lasting effect on bad breath. If you must constantly use a breath freshener to hide unpleasant mouth odor, see your dentist. If you need extra help in controlling plaque, your dentist may recommend using a special antimicrobial mouth rinse. A fluoride mouth rinse, used along with brushing and flossing, can help prevent tooth decay.

and do not have a long-lasting effect on bad breath. If you must constantly use a breath freshener to hide unpleasant mouth odor, see your dentist. If you need extra help in controlling plaque, your dentist may recommend using a special antimicrobial mouth rinse. A fluoride mouth rinse, used along with brushing and flossing, can help prevent tooth decay.

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Gingivitis

June 28th, 2007 - No Responses

Gingivitis

Background: Gingivitis is an inflammatory process limited to the mucosal epithelial tissue surrounding the cervical portion of the teeth and the alveolar processes. Gingivitis has been classified by clinical appearance (eg, ulcerative, hemorrhagic, necrotizing, purulent), etiology (eg, drug-induced, hormonal, nutritional, infectious, plaque-induced), and duration (acute, chronic). The most common type of gingivitis is a chronic form induced by plaque.

Gingivitis is an inflammatory process limited to the mucosal epithelial tissue surrounding the cervical portion of the teeth and the alveolar processes. Gingivitis has been classified by clinical appearance (eg, ulcerative, hemorrhagic, necrotizing, purulent), etiology (eg, drug-induced, hormonal, nutritional, infectious, plaque-induced), and duration (acute, chronic). The most common type of gingivitis is a chronic form induced by plaque.Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG, ie, trench mouth) is an acute infectious gingivitis. The term trench mouth was coined in World War I when ANUG was common among trench-bound soldiers.

Pathophysiology: The most common type of gingivitis involves the marginal gingiva and is brought on by the accumulation of microbial plaques in persons with inadequate oral hygiene. Gingivitis proceeds through an initial stage to produce early lesions, which then progress to advanced disease.

The most common type of gingivitis involves the marginal gingiva and is brought on by the accumulation of microbial plaques in persons with inadequate oral hygiene. Gingivitis proceeds through an initial stage to produce early lesions, which then progress to advanced disease.The initial stage of an acute exudative inflammatory response begins within 4 or 5 days of plaque accumulation. Both gingival fluid and transmigration of neutrophils increase. Deposition of fibrin and destruction of collagen can be noted in the initial stage. At approximately 1 week, transition to early lesions is marked by the change to predominately lymphocytic infiltrates. Monocytes and plasma cells also may be present. With time, lesions become chronic and are characterized by the presence of plasma cells and B lymphocytes. As chronic local inflammation progresses, pockets develop where the gingiva separates from the tooth. These pockets deepen and may bleed during tooth brushing, flossing, and even normal chewing. As this persistent inflammation continues, periodontal ligaments break down and destruction of the local alveolar bone occurs. Teeth loosen and eventually fall out.

ANUG is a completely different syndrome caused by acute infection of the gingiva with organisms such as Prevotella intermedia, alpha-hemolytic streptococci, Actinomyces species, or any of a number of different oral spirochetes. ANUG may result in accelerated destruction of affected tissues, as well as local or systemic spread of infection.

Noma (cancrum oris) is a syndrome in which ANUG spreads beyond the gingiva. The infection invades local tissues of the mouth and face.

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Cleft lip and palate

June 28th, 2007 - No Responses

Cleft Lip and Palate

Each of us had a cleft lip and cleft palate during the early weeks of development in our mother’s womb. Normally, the tissues that form the palate (the roof of your mouth) and the upper lip come together in the middle and join (fuse). You can see the lines of fusion in the “Cupid’s bow” under your own nose, and feel the ridge and line in the middle of your palate (the roof of your mouth). If your baby has a cleft, this fusion did not happen when he or she was developing.

In most cases, we simply don’t know why lip and palate development go wrong. About 1 in 600 babies has a cleft lip or cleft palate.

Race and gender play a small role. Clefts are most common in Asians. They are less common in whites and least common in blacks. Boys are more often affected than girls.

In some families, clefts appear in several family members, so heredity is important. Sometimes substances in the environment, called teratogens, may be associated with clefts. But most babies with clefts have no known relatives with clefts and no known exposure to teratogens. A few babies with clefts also have other abnormalities. Your baby’s doctor will look for these other abnormalities and tell you what

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