TMJ Problems - What are your choices?

A guest post by:

David A. Torkko, DC

Tigard Family Chiropractic

Dr. Justin Marostica and I have teamed up to help you better understand TMJ issues and what your treatment choices are. The TMJ (temporomandibular joint) is the joint where your lower jaw hinges to your occiput (head). It is a fairly complex joint that has a disc pad for cushion and has many powerful muscles that attach to it for chewing and grinding of food. In this blog I will share the options and approaches that have proven successful in my practice.

Common problems affecting the TMJ can manifest as headaches, night/day grinding, clinching, neck pains, jaw and facial pains, popping and pain with chewing, tightness in the neck muscles and shoulders, stress and fatigue. If you have been diagnosed and feel that TMJ is an issue, Dr. Marostica and I have some great options to help you recover. 

What I do for TMJ as a chiropractor:

1st – Thorough evaluation of the cervical spine (neck):

a) Why look at the neck? Out of the cervical spine come the nerves that control and power the TMJ joint and attach muscles. Pain is carried through nerves so the spine (human fuse box) is an overlooked but essential element to assess in TMJ issues. Abnormal spinal vertebra alignment irritates and compresses the delicate spinal nerves and causes pain that can show up in the TMJ = referred pain.

b) The TMJ muscles are controlled by the cervical (neck) nerves and improper nerve impulses ultimately create imbalances in the jaw muscles that open and close the jaw. Over time it wears on the TMJ and causes chronic inflammation and pain. 

2nd – Thorough evaluation at the TMJ:

a) Palpation and range of motion evaluation at the TMJ helps me understand the quality of the joint movement and alignment. When or where the TMJ catches, locks, or becomes painful is important in the assessment process. 

3rd – Radiography:

a) X-rays may be required to better understand the dynamic relationship between the TMJ and the cervical spine. This process would also identify any biomechanical pathologies

4th – Treatment - I use a multifaceted approach for TMJ care. Here is a basic outline of protocols 

that have proven successful:

1. Gentle spinal care to regain proper nerve function to the TMJ and adjacent muscles.

2. Gentle functional alignment of the TMJ through the use of the ArthroStim to regain balance of motion in the jaw.

3. FDA approved cold laser; class 3B laser utilizing the Med-X Laser to heal and regenerate damage and inflamed tissues within the TMJ.

This functional treatment program along with TMJ splints or other treatment techniques Dr. Marostica may implement provides safe, effective, and conservative approach to TMJ management and healing.

For further questions, please contact our office at 503-595-6777 or go to our website at www.TigardChiropractic.com. I personally look forward to helping you in your healing journey!

Yours in health, 

David A. Torkko, DC

Back to Dental Basics!

I get asked the same question everyday… “How can I keep from getting cavities?”   This is a simple question that deserves a simple answer, so I have broken it down into 5 simple and easy steps that everyone should take to prevent tooth decay. 

1. Brush your teeth twice a day—in the morning after breakfast and at bedtime.  This removes plaque, which can lead to damaged teeth, gums, and surrounding bone.   
2. Floss at least once a day, preferably at bedtime.  Saliva flow that protects teeth during the day shuts down at night and any plaque that is left between the teeth becomes food for the bacteria that cause cavities.
3. Use toothpaste that contains fluoride, which helps prevent tooth decay and cavities.   Ask your dentist if you need a mouthwash that contains fluoride or one with ingredients that fight plaque.   Look for toothpastes that have been approved by the American Dental Association.  If you are prone to cavities or have lots of dental restorations, prescription- strength fluoride toothpaste is available and can be prescribed.
4. Avoid foods that contain a lot of sugar. Late night snacks are especially destructive because they supply bacteria sugar at a time when your teeth are most vulnerable.
5. Schedule regular trips to the dentist based on how often you need exams, x-rays, and cleaning. Every 6 months is typical.

Other helpful but less critical tips to avoid tooth decay are to have sealants placed on all permanent molars and premolars when they erupt into the mouth, have the sealants maintained properly, and use an electric toothbrush.

Patients who follow these 5 steps on a daily basis will avoid getting cavities and will find that their dental appointments will go smoothly and quickly!

By Dr. Andrew Thompson
TenderCare Dental - Portland, Oregon
http://www.facebook.com/TenderCareDental

HPV - Do you have a growing risk factor for oral cancer?

According to the CDC, more than 1,700 new cases of HPV-associated head and neck cancers are diagnosed in women and nearly 5,700 are diagnosed in men each year. 

Some Dentists are now offering a new, simple test of saliva that can determine your risk for oral cancer from the Human Papilloma Virus, more commonly known as HPV. The problem is, it costs $200, and the test is not covered by standard dental insurance. 

If you are an at risk patient, would you be willing to pay the entire cost of this test every few years?

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Halitosis (Bad Breath) FAQ’s Answered

What causes bad breath?

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.

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. Dentures that are not cleaned properly can also harbor odor-causing bacteria and food particles.

One of the warning signs of periodontal (gum) disease is persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth. Periodontal disease is caused by plaque, the sticky, colorless film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. The bacteria create toxins that irritate the gums. In the advanced stage of the disease, the gums, bone and other structures that support the teeth become damaged. With regular dental checkups, your dentist can detect and treat periodontal disease early.

Bad breath is also 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 an artificial saliva, or suggest using sugarless candy and increasing your fluid intake.

Tobacco products cause bad breath, stain teeth, reduce one's ability to taste foods and irritate gum tissues. Tobacco users are more likely to suffer from periodontal disease and are at greater risk for developing oral cancer. 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 (nose throat, windpipe, lungs), 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.

Eliminating periodontal disease and 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

Brush twice a day with a 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. If you wear removable dentures, take them out at night. Clean them thoroughly before replacing them the next morning.

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 mouthrinse. A fluoride mouthrinse, used along with brushing and flossing, can help prevent tooth decay.

What can I do about bad breath?

Regular checkups will allow your dentist to detect any problems such as periodontal (gum) disease, a dry mouth or other disorders that may be the cause. Maintaining good oral hygiene, eliminating periodontal (gum) disease and scheduling regular professional cleanings are essential to reducing bad breath.

Regardless of what may be the cause, good oral hygiene is essential. Brush twice a day and clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental cleaners. Brush your tongue, too. If you wear dentures, be sure to remove them at night and clean them thoroughly before replacing them the next morning.

What is the treatment for bad breath?

If your dentist determines that your mouth is healthy and that the odor is not of oral origin, you may be referred to your family physician or to a specialist to determine the cause of the odor and for treatment. Of course, if the odor is of oral origin, as it is in the majority of cases, your dentist can treat the cause of the problem.

If the odor is due to periodontal (gum) disease, your general dentist can either treat the disease or refer you to a periodontist, a specialist in treating gum tissues. Periodontal (gum) disease can cause gum tissues to pull away from the teeth and form pockets. When these pockets are deep, only a professional periodontal cleaning can remove the bacteria and plaque that accumulate. Sometimes more extensive treatment is necessary.

If you have extensive build-up of plaque, an invisible layer of bacteria, your dentist may recommend using a special antimicrobial mouthrinse. Your dentist may also recommend that when you brush your teeth, you also brush your tongue to remove excess plaque.


Guest Post By:
Justin Marostica, DMD

Teeth Whitening FAQ’S Answered

There are many causes of tooth staining.  Certain medications, tooth trauma, root fillings, and foods and beverages can cause tooth discoloration over time.  Some discolorations are superficial while others are more internal.  Both can be effectively treated by a dentist; professional whitening is the best option to safely whiten discolored teeth.

HOW DOES WHITENING WORK?

click to enlarge

The whitening process is possible due to the ability of whitening agent (carbamide peroxide and/or hydrogen peroxide) to freely pass through enamel and dentin and to permeate all parts of the tooth.  These peroxides break down into oxygen radicals, which migrate between the enamel prisms, breaking down any colored molecules that result in tooth discoloration.  The structure of the tooth is not altered.  The internal tooth color is simply made lighter

Whitening agents break down into tiny molecules and move in all directions so even if the entire tooth is not covered with bleach, the entire tooth is whitened.
Numerous studies have proven the effectiveness of peroxides in whitening teeth.  Enamel, dentin, existing fillings, and bonding materials are not affected by the whitening agents, nor are they harmed by the whitening materials.

HOW LONG DOES THE WHITENING LAST?

Whitening results are very stable, but depending on the patient’s nutrition and lifestyle habits, the procedure may need to be redone periodically.  Due to the safety of the whitening agents, this should not concern the dentist or patient.

WILL WHITENING CAUSE TOOTH SENSITIVITY?

Tooth sensitivity is a relatively common side effect of whitening.  If sensitivity occurs, it is transient and disappears after the completion of the whitening.  However, most whitening products contain desensitizing agents like potassium nitrate and fluoride for additional comfort.  Research has shown that just as hydrogen peroxide penetrates through the enamel and dentin into the pulp, so does potassium nitrate.  Potassium nitrate acts more like an analgesic or anesthetic by keeping the nerve of the tooth from sending pain signals to the brain.  Fluoride acts primarily as a dentin tube blocker, plugging the holes and slowing down the fluid flow that causes sensitivity.

WILL WHITENING WEAKEN THE TOOTH’S ENAMEL?

Findings presented at the American Association of Dental Research confirm that whitening will actually minimize sensitivity, provide anti-caries benefits, increase enamel microhardness, and improve overall enamel health.

WILL OVER-THE –COUNTER  WHITENING PRODUCTS WORK AS WELL AS PROFESSIONAL WHITENING?

Self-treatment with the use of over-the –counter (OTC) products often does not provide the results desired.  Professional tooth whitening treatments are safe if they are used appropriately and with the correct materials.  This includes an initial diagnosis, professional teeth cleaning, briefing on the chosen whitening process, and monitoring the patient during the treatment phase.

By Dr. Andrew Thompson
TenderCare Dental - Portland, Oregon
http://www.facebook.com/TenderCareDental

Dental Implant Cost: Comparison of a Three-Unit Bridge -vs- Single Dental Implant

Tooth implants are considered the ultimate dental restoration solution for tooth replacement, especially when only a single tooth needs to be replaced.

Traditionally, the best dental restoration for a single missing tooth was a three-tooth bridge, better known as a three-unit bridge. This type of restoration worked by linking three crowns together. The middle tooth was used to bridge the gap. Even though this type of dental restoration was considered state-of-the-art for many years, it had its limitations.


For instance, the fabrication of a three-unit bridge required the teeth on both sides of the gap to be whittled down to allow for the false teeth to be slipped over the top of the teeth. Because the three teeth were linked together, they could not be cleaned in the same way as normal teeth. In addition, they required special dental cleaning tools in order to maintain healthy gum tissue.


Today, dental implants are the first choice to replace missing teeth and dental restoration. In the case of a single missing tooth, a tooth implant can be placed by the implant dentist in the area of the missing tooth. The implant will serve as a replacement for a tooth root and an individual dental crown. The total apparatus is referred to as a single-tooth implant crown.


Once in place, the dental implant crown will look, feel and function like your natural teeth. They are cleaned and flossed just like your natural teeth, and best of all, they do not require any special tools to clean around them, like bridges. Although tooth implants will not decay, they require that you maintain impeccable oral hygiene.

Does a Dental Implant Crown Last Forever?

Even though dental scientists are developing advanced materials to create a more durable crown, the old adage "nothing lasts forever" also applies to dental implant crowns. Because each patient is different, dental implant crowns last a varied amount of time depending on the patient.
Dental crowns that were thought to last only 3 to 5 years can last 10 to 20 years if meticulously cared for. On the other hand, dental crowns that should last for ten or more years can last only two years in a mouth that is neglected.
The bottom line is that no one can tell you how long a tooth implant will last, but if you take excellent care of your mouth and see your dentist every six months, you stand a better chance of extending the life of your dental implant and other dental restorations.

How Does the Cost of a Dental Implant Crown Compare to a Three-Unit Bridge?

The cost of a three-unit bridge can range from $3,000 to $3,500. The cost of single tooth implants is approximately $3,500 to $4,000. If teeth associated with a dental bridge fail due to recurrent decay or periodontal disease, ordinarily, dental restoration must be done on the entire dental bridge and possibly add a new filling or build-up of the teeth.


The cost of any foundations under a new dental bridge will add to the dental restoration and tooth replacement cost. If and when a dental implant crown has to be reconstructed, most likely, it would be due to the wearing away of the dental crown material.


By Dr. Andrew Thompson
TenderCare Dental - Portland, Oregon
http://www.facebook.com/TenderCareDental

Replace a Missing Tooth With a Dental Implant

Patients ask me about dental implants all the time, so I thought I would take some time to explain what a dental implant is and how it is different than other traditional tooth replacement options

Compared to previous generations when tooth loss was common, modern dentistry has made it possible for people to keep their teeth healthy and attractive for their entire lives. But for people who have experienced tooth loss, there are 3 basic replacement options:

1. A bridge
2. A partial or full denture
3. A dental implant

But bridges and dentures have drawbacks.   Teeth adjacent to the missing tooth or teeth must be altered in order to place a bridge or partial denture.  Food gets caught under bridges, partials, and dentures with resulting sore gums. Or a denture can loosen and cause embarrassment.

Today, dental implants can replace missing teeth. Although the concept of a tooth implant is not new, advances in technology have improved the treatment process and the longevity of implants.

Modern day dental implants are made of pure titanium and are surgically inserted in the jawbone. The tooth implant is covered with gum tissue and allowed to heal for three to six months. During this time, the titanium meshes with the bone (osseointegration), becoming part of the jawbone itself. After the gums are healed, the implants are uncovered and permanent tooth replacements are attached to the implants.

Dental implants can be used for single tooth replacements, support for a permanent bridge, or as attachments to anchor a full denture securely to the jaw.

If you think a tooth implant could help you or someone you know chew more comfortably, speak more clearly, or look better, call our dental office for more details.

By Dr. Andrew Thompson
TenderCare Dental - Portland, Oregon
http://www.facebook.com/TenderCareDental

Teeth Whitening - Explore The Revolutionary Advanced Dental Techniques Bright, White Teeth.

Advanced dental techniques now provide consumers with exciting, new options for enhancing their smiles. Revolutionary methods are now available for teeth whitening to make smiles sparkle!

Teeth whitening lightens the color of teeth whether darkened from age, coffee, tea or tobacco. The brightening effects of teeth whiteners can last up to five years after the treatment depending on your personal habits, such as smoking or drinking coffee or tea.

Is Tooth Whitening Right for You?

Teeth whitening has a higher than 90% success rate. It is tough on stains but gentle on your teeth! Results vary depending on several factors such as teeth stained from smoking; from taking certain medications such as tetracycline during tooth development; or from fluorosis, a condition occurring in the presence of too much fluoride.

Teeth whitening will not lighten fillings or artificial materials used in dental repair such as crowns, porcelain veneers, etc. Your dentist may discourage treatment if you have sensitive teeth, periodontal disease, and teeth with worn enamel or if you're pregnant or breast-feeding.

Tooth Bleaching - Several Options Available

Some teeth whitening treatments are performed in the dental office using an in-office bleaching system, such as Zoom! In-office Teeth Whitening. This method lightens teeth instantly. The same results may be obtained more economically through dentist-supervised at-home teeth whitening, but take longer to achieve. Some teeth whitening systems, which whiten your teeth while you sleep, work in 10 to 14 days (or more accurately nights)! Others whiten your teeth from two to four hours a day requiring three to six weeks to complete.

It's important to know that certain types of stains respond better to different types of whitening materials. In such cases, your dentist may recommend one tooth whitener method over the other.

Teeth Whitening - The Steps to Bright, White Teeth

• We will first examine your teeth and gums and discuss the procedure best suited to your individual needs. Any cavities or gum problems must be treated before teeth whitening can begin.
•  The in-office method generally takes one to three hours and results in an immediate noticeable change in most cases
• For the at-home method, special molds will be made of your teeth. These will be used to make custom-fitted flexible trays that will hold the whitening gel comfortably in your mouth.
• When you get your tooth whitening trays, you'll receive instructions about wearing them. These directions must be carefully followed. Only the materials provided by the teeth whitening dentist can be safely used.
• After completing the treatment, your teeth will be checked by your dental provider to discuss the results.
• Smile! Your new white teeth will radiate a bright look!

Safety

Research over the last five years has proven that teeth whitening is both safe and effective. The American Dental Association's seal of approval has been given to a wide range of teeth whitening products. Generally, the only side effect from treatment may be some sensitivity to hot and cold foods. If this occurs, sensitivity normally disappears within 48 hours

By Dr. Andrew Thompson
TenderCare Dental - Portland, Oregon
http://www.facebook.com/TenderCareDental

Three Reasons Why Good Dental Care Is A Wise Choice

Most of us think that taking care of our teeth is about having a great smile and avoiding the discomfort of a toothache. Having a great smile and avoiding toothaches are valid and important reasons for maintaining a good oral health program, there are three other equally strong reasons to consider.

First, dental health is part of your overall health. Second, choosing good dental care is a wise investment of your time and financial resources.

Finally, your emotional well-being is influenced by how you think and feel about yourself. Your smile is a big part of your self-image. Let's examine each of these areas more thoroughly.

Good Physical Health Equals Good Dental Health

It is easy to forget that your teeth, gums, and mouth are essential parts of your physical body. Periodontal disease, bone and gum loss, and infections all affect the overall picture of your physical health. The ability to chew your food well helps digestion and reduces stress on the gastrointestinal system.

Like any physical system, each part of the body plays a role in the overall health of the system; taking care of your teeth and gums is a part of an intentional plan for physical health. In collaboration with your dentistry team, you can create a dental plan that will contribute to your overall health plan.

A Good Dental Plan is a Wise Investment

There are two important resources that you use and allocate in your everyday life: your time and your money. When it comes to your dental care, they are closely related.

The time you take everyday to invest in your dental health is also an investment in your financial health. When treatment is necessary, dentistry is also an investment in your financial future. Proper treatment today prevents more costly complications and uncomfortable problems tomorrow.

For those who seek to maintain their dental health for life, it is a wise investment to get the most value from the knowledge and skills your dentist and good dental care offers you.

Good Dental Health Equals Emotional Well-Being

How you feel and think about yourself is an important part of your emotional well-being, and a pleasant smile plays a big role in this. In addition, when you take an active role in caring for yourself, it also contributes to your overall sense of competence in managing your life and maintaining a positive lifestyle. The habit of good dental care and regular hygiene examinations reinforces taking positive steps for yourself in other areas of your life.

Smile because good dental care can provide you with innovative and effective ways to create and maintain a pleasant smile that you feel good about. When it comes to feeling good about yourself and your smile, dentistry offers many exciting and effective options.

By Dr. Andrew Thompson
TenderCare Dental - Portland, Oregon
http://www.facebook.com/TenderCareDental

Computerized Dental Radiography

These days, computers are really changing the way we live and work. You've probably experienced their impact in your own home. And believe me, technology is also helping raise our dental practice to a new level of safety, accuracy, and comfort.

Keeping up with all these advances is a full-time occupation that's as important as my work at chairside. One of the most promising of these breakthroughs is an improvement on the oldest evaluation technology we have - dental x-rays.

For close to a century, dentists have used x-rays to detect cavities and damage invisible to the eye. We've long been aware of the drawbacks. Though x-ray radiation is slight, many patients find it a cause for concern. And reading the negative requires a skilled, professional eye-which means my patients can't see what I see.

That's why I’m excited to announce that my office now uses a Computed Dental Radiography System as an x-ray alternative. A computer enhances a "photo" of your teeth and shows it instantly on a screen. This new system requires 90% less radiation than the old film x-rays, and can magnify the image up to 300 times. It's as easy to read as a snapshot. When I discuss something I see in your mouth, you'll be able to view it right along with me.

This is an exciting time to be a dentist. We're re-thinking and refining virtually every aspect of our dental practice, and I wanted to pass a bit of it along to you.

By Dr. Andrew Thompson
TenderCare Dental - Portland, Oregon
http://www.facebook.com/TenderCareDental
 

Straight Teeth in 6 Months? It's Possible!

If you could have straight teeth by about the time of your next dental cleaning, would you do it?  It’s possible, thanks to Six Month Smiles®.

Six Month Smiles® - A natural, beautiful smile in just six months!

Are you one of the millions of adults who are unhappy, self-conscious, or even embarrassed of your smile?  Many adults spend their entire lives covering their mouths when they laugh, smile or talk.  They feel stuck because they do not want to wear metal braces for years or they are concerned that other corrective procedures could be too invasive or too expensive.  Now, there is an effective, safe and affordable cosmetic solution that fits your lifestyle.

A revolutionary combination of proven orthodontic techniques, modern materials, and innovative thought - Six Month Smiles® utilizes nearly invisible clear braces to gently straighten and align teeth in an average time of just six months.

What is Six Month Smiles®?

Six Month Smiles® is a modern twist on tried-and-true orthodontics.  There is little debate within the orthodontic community that braces are the most widely used and most effective method to give patients straight, healthy teeth and a beautiful smile.  Six Month Smiles has taken the best aspects of braces and modified the treatment and the materials to give adults a common-sense, cosmetic solution that fits your lifestyle.  Here is what makes Six Month Smiles so innovative …

·                Average treatment times of only six months

·                Six Month Smiles’ clear brackets and tooth-colored wires are barely visible

·                Use of braces has shown to provide the most conservative and predictable final result

·                Six Month Smiles Patient Tray Kits™ ensure that your appointments are fast and comfortable

·                Low forces and short overall treatment time increases safety and hygiene

·               Six Month Smiles is typically less expensive than traditional braces, aligner therapy, or   veneers

Call us today for a free consultation to find out if Six Month Smiles® is right for you!


By Dr. Andrew Thompson
TenderCare Dental - Portland, Oregon
http://www.facebook.com/TenderCareDental

Unique Way To Prevent Cavities - Sealants

Patients often ask me how they can prevent cavities.  Next to brushing and flossing, sealants are a great way to prevent tooth decay. I am a big believer in sealants!

 

A sealant is a plastic material that is painlessly applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth--the molars and premolars. Most tooth decay begins on these chewing surfaces because they have many small grooves where germs and food can hide, and toothbrush bristles cannot reach to clean. This plastic resin bonds into these grooves and acts as a barrier to protect these surfaces from food, plaque, and acids. Prevention is better than treatment. Preventing decay by sealing out the bacteria and acids that contribute to caries/cavities is much easier and much less expensive that the trauma and cost of dental treatment, such as fillings, extractions, or crowns!

There are no shots and almost no drilling when applying sealants! The tooth is first cleaned, a chemical etchant is applied, a liquid plastic material is painted on, and then "cured" (made hard) with a special light. It takes only minutes, and is easy for both the clinician and the patient! The hardest part about the entire procedure is keeping the tooth dry so that the sealant will stick.

Ideally sealants are applied upon the eruption of the first permanent molars, usually at age 6 years, and upon the eruption the second permanent molars, usually at age 12 years. Although traditionally sealants are applied to children of these ages, they are effective preventative measures for adults as well, especially if your teeth have deep grooves, or if you are prone to decay.

Just like tires on cars and roofs on houses, sealants don't last forever, and they tend to wear out over time due to normal chewing and eating.  For this reason, sealants need to be evaluated every 6 months and replaced when they wear out.  The average life of a sealant is 3-5 years, and most insurance companies will cover the cost of replacement within certain restrictions.


By Dr. Andrew Thompson
TenderCare Dental - Portland, Oregon
http://www.facebook.com/TenderCareDental

A Child's First Visit to the Dentist

New parents often ask me what age is appropriate for their child's first dental visit. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that all infants receive an oral health risk assessment by six months of age by either a dentist or pediatrician. Infants at a higher risk of early tooth decay should be referred directly to a dentist as early as six months of age.  Otherwise, infants should see a dentist for that first visit no later than six months after the first tooth erupts or by age one (whichever comes first).

Dental problems often start early, so the sooner the visit occurs, the better. To protect against problems such as baby bottle tooth decay, teething irritations, gum disease, and prolonged thumb-sucking, the dentist can provide or recommend special preventive care. Children, like adults, should see the dentist every six months.  Some dentists may schedule interim visits for every three months when the child is very young to build up a comfort and confidence level, or to treat a developing problem.

According to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), many general dentists treating children are designing their offices to be more child-friendly by providing their young patients with age-appropriate books, video games and movies.  Dentists recognize that they can make a child’s (and the parent’s) dental experience more positive by providing a fun environment so that the child is excited about coming to the dentist’s office.

The AGD offers the following recommendations on how to prepare for the visit and on how to keep your child from being anxious about seeing the dentist:

Parents should ask the dentist about the procedures of the first appointment so there are no surprises. The first visit usually includes a gentle but thorough examination of the teeth, jaw, bite, gums and oral tissues to monitor growth and development and observe any problem areas. The dentist may also have your child’s teeth cleaned, particularly if your child's teeth have a stain that commonly appears in infants.

Very young children may be fussy and not sit still. Talking to the dentist beforehand about the best way to communicate with your child about dental visits is often helpful. It is important that parents are reassuring and calm when communicating with their child about the dental visit. Be positive when speaking with your child about what to expect and build excitement about the visit.

For parents who feel their child will be anxious about the visit, ask the dentist if he/she will schedule a pre-visit. Ask the dentist to take your child on a tour of the office, explain the equipment and tools, allow them to sit in the chair and even demonstrate on a family member to help them become comfortable. Ask if the dentist what his/her policy is on allowing a relative to accompany the child in the treatment room. 

Be sure to bring to the child's complete medical history records to the appointment. 

In addition to the overall dental examination, the first dental visit is about establishing a relationship with a dental team you feel comfortable with for you and your child.

By Dr. Andrew Thompson
TenderCare Dental - Portland, Oregonhttp://www.facebook.com/TenderCareDental

Flossing, How often? Which ones? Is it necessary?

I often get asked questions such as how often should I floss, is flossing necessary, and what teeth should I floss? My response is the cliché used by dentists the world over. You should only floss the teeth you want to keep! Besides brushing, flossing is the most important thing that you can do to ensure good oral health. 

The purpose of both brushing and flossing is to reduce the number of bacteria which inhabit our mouths. Normally, millions of these microscopic bacteria call your mouth home,  feeding on food particles left on our teeth.


These bacteria produce acid as a result of their feasting, and it is this acid which eats into tooth enamel creating cavities.  If this wasn't bad enough, the bacteria also pour out volatile sulfur compounds creating embarrassing bad breath.


Normally bacteria are found within a mesh of mucus and debris known as plaque. Regular brushing removes the plaque and the bacteria plaque contains. Unfortunately, many people only brush, forgetting that flossing is a key component to any good oral hygiene program.


Flossing removes the bacteria that escape the toothbrush by hiding in the tiny spaces in between teeth. Brushing without flossing is like washing only 65% of your body. The other 35% remains dirty! The American Dental Association recommends that you floss at least once a day.

If you do not floss and allow plaque to remain in between teeth it eventually hardens into a substance known as tartar. Unlike plaque which can be easily removed by brushing and  flossing, tartar can only be removed by your dentist. 


Over time, levels of more dangerous types of bacteria build up within tartar. These bacteria produce toxins which irritate and inflame the gums. This condition is known as gingivitis. If gingivitis is left untreated it can progress to periodontal disease - a condition where bacteria and their toxins invade not only the gums but also the bones and the structures supporting the teeth. This can lead to bone loss, loose teeth, and teeth which fall out.


I recommend Glide or any other coated dental floss because they slide easily between teeth. However, any floss that you can get between your teeth and which does not fray or break easily is good. 
Alternatively, if you don't like using dental floss, consider an interdental cleaner (electric flosser) which makes flossing easy and convenient.


If you haven't flossed in a while, you may see a little red tinge of blood on the floss after you use it. This indicates that your gums are slightly inflamed and vastly in need of flossing to remove bacteria. With a regular regimen of flossing this red tinge should go away.


By brushing and flossing we help to eliminate the bacteria which can lead to bad breath, gingivitis, and periodontal disease thus creating smiles which last a lifetime.


By Dr. Andrew Thompson
TenderCare Dental - Portland, Oregonhttp://www.facebook.com/TenderCareDental

Pregnancy, Periodontal Disease and Gingivitis. What you need to know...

When I was in dental school back in 1998, I was taught that risk factors such as smoking, alcohol use, and drug use contribute to mothers having babies that are born prematurely at a low birth weight.

Now evidence is mounting that suggests a new risk factor – periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is bacterial infection of the bone and gums that support teeth. 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 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.

Pregnant women who have periodontal disease may be seven times more likely to have a baby that is born too early and too small.

More research is needed to confirm how periodontal disease may affect pregnancy outcomes. It appears that periodontal disease triggers increased levels of biological fluids that induce labor. Furthermore, data suggests that women whose periodontal condition worsens during pregnancy have an even higher risk of having a premature baby.

All infections are cause for concern among pregnant women because they pose a risk to the health of the baby. I recommend that women considering pregnancy see their dentist every 6 months for a comprehensive dental exam that includes necessary x-rays and a periodontal evaluation in order maintain good oral health and prevent the onset of periodontal disease.

By Dr. Andrew Thompson
TenderCare Dental - Portland, Oregon
http://www.facebook.com/TenderCareDental