Dental
caries (cavities) are the most common form of oral disease known to
man, and the process of getting caries is called tooth decay.
Tooth
decay is the destruction of your tooth enamel -- the hard, outer layer
of your teeth. This issue can affect children, teens and adults. Plaque,
a sticky film of bacteria, is constantly forming on your teeth. When
you eat or drink foods or beverages containing sugars, the bacteria in
plaque produce acids that attack tooth enamel. The stickiness of the
plaque keeps these acids in contact with your teeth, and over time the
enamel can break down, according to the American Dental Association
(ADA).
The types of caries formed can be broken down into two major groups:
Pit and fissure caries. These
are found most often on the chewing surfaces of the back (molar and
premolar) teeth, and the back of the front (anterior) teeth. Your teeth
are composed of several sections of enamel, and where these sections
meet, pits and grooves can trap plaque, causing decay. The proper
application of pit and fissure sealants, a hard plastic material applied
to seal the grooves and pits when the teeth have erupted, can prevent
this type of dental caries. The sealants also make it less likely that
you will need restorations (fillings) on those surfaces of the teeth.
Smooth surface caries. These
are found most often along the gumline or where two teeth touch
(interproximal or the space between teeth), if plaque forms in those
areas. With the proper use of dental floss, you can prevent most smooth
surface caries in the interproximal area, and using a manual or power
toothbrush along the gumline can prevent caries in that area as well.
To read the entire article written by Richard A Huot, DDS, please visit Colgate.com
Siranli Dental
Samantha Siranli, DMD, PhD, FACP
2112 F St. NW, Suite 605
Washington, DC 20037
(202) 466-4530
SiranliDental.com
Parents
are a child's first teacher in life and play a significant role in
maintaining his or her overall health. Providing oral health education
to mothers and families is essential to teaching children healthy habits
and preventing early childhood tooth decay, according to an article
published in the May/June 2010 issue of General Dentistry, the
peer-reviewed clinical journal of the Academy of General Dentistry
(AGD).
With
all of the challenges that new parents face, they may not think much
about the link between their child's oral health and overall health. In
fact, an understanding of oral hygiene can help parents to prevent tooth
decayóthe single most common chronic childhood disease in Americaóand
to create a lifetime of healthy habits for their child.
"Ideally,
the oral health education for any family will begin with prenatal
education and the establishment of a dental home by the time the child
is 12 to 18 months of age," says Tegwyn Brickhouse, DDS, author of the
study. "Many people don't realize that the oral health of the mother
affects both the infant's future oral health and the child's overall
health. In fact, some studies show that periodontal disease has been
linked to preterm labor. That's why pregnant women should be evaluated
for cavities, poor oral hygiene, gingivitis, loose teeth and diet."
After
the child is born, families should become familiar with their child's
dental and oral health milestones, which will be determined by
discussion with the family dentist or a pediatric dentist. Children
should have their first dental visit at age 1 or within six months of
the eruption of their first tooth. A dentist will be able to discuss
when parents can expect to see a child's first tooth and the best
technique for brushing his or her new teeth.
Diet
is another factor that affects a child's oral health. Frequent and
long-term exposure to liquids that contain sugars commonly results in
tooth decay. In addition to eliminating sugary drinks altogether from a
child's diet, parents can adopt other habits to prevent tooth decay due
to beverage consumption.
"Parents
should avoid giving their children milk, formula, juice or soda at
naptime or nighttime," says Bruce DeGinder, DDS, MAGD, spokesperson for
the AGD. "The sugars will linger on their teeth and gums for a prolonged
period of time, promoting decay."
Parents
are responsible for their child's oral hygiene practices and are
advised to meet with a general dentist to determine the best way to
establish and maintain their child's oral health. A general dentist also
can provide families with oral health literature that is designed to
educate both the parent and child. This education has multiple benefits;
as Dr. Brickhouse notes, "Healthy teeth in early childhood can provide a
positive self-image and improve the child's quality of life."
To read the entire article please visit KnowYourTeeth.com
Below is an excerpt from an article found on Colgate.com that was written by Elizabeth SanFilippo
Chances
are good that visions of cookies, desserts and candy canes may be
dancing in your children's heads this holiday season. While you will do
what you can to limit their intake of these sugary treats, your kids
will probably be eating their fair share of sugar at your family holiday
parties. Despite their consumption of sugar, there are ways to keep
your kids' healthy teeth and gums in shape and to minimize damage to
their dental health.
Why Is Sugar Bad for Dental Health?
Whether
your kids are eating chocolate cake, sugar cookies or peppermint candy,
they are ingesting sugar. According to the American Dental Association
(ADA), naturally occurring bacteria in the mouth feed on this sugar, and
the byproduct is acid. This acid can eat away at tooth enamel, which
can lead to tooth decay and cavities. The more time teeth spend exposed
to sugar, the higher the risk that your children will face dental health
problems. Hard candies, and sticky candies such as taffy and caramel,
can be worse for teeth than other treats such as cake and cookies.
Brush after Eating a Sugary Treat
In
general, the ADA recommends that everyone brush their teeth and gums at
least twice a day for at least two minutes each time. Flossing should
also be done at least once a day. During the holidays, encourage your
kids to brush and floss even more than this, particularly right after
they finish dessert. If a toothbrush is not handy, the next best thing
to do is rinse. Encourage your kids to rinse their mouths with water -
not soda or even sparkling grape juice ó which will help wash away
sugar, acids and any other food that may be stuck to their teeth.
To read the entire article visit Colgate.com.
The remainder of the article details the following:
- Limit Sugar Time
- Make Dessert a Part of the Meal
- Make Toothbrushing Fun
- Schedule a Dentist Visit
A mouthguard is a flexible appliance that is worn in athletic and recreational activities to protect teeth from trauma. The dental profession unanimously supports the use of mouthguards in a variety of sports activities.
Why should I wear a mouthguard?
A mouthguard can prevent serious injuries such as broken teeth, jaw fractures, cerebral hemorrhage and neck injuries by helping to avoid situations where the lower jaw gets jammed into the upper jaw. Mouthguards are effective in moving soft tissue in the oral cavity away from the teeth, preventing laceration and bruising of the lips and cheeks, especially for those who wear orthodontic appliances. They may also reduce the severity and incidence of concussions.
In what sports should I wear a mouthguard?
Anytime there is a strong chance for contact with other participants or hard surfaces, it is advisable to wear a mouthguard. Players who participate in basketball, softball, football, wrestling, soccer, lacrosse, rugby, in-line skating and martial arts, as well as recreational sports such as skateboarding and bicycling, should wear mouthguards while competing.
Why don't kids wear mouthguards?
Parents are sometimes uninformed about the level of contact and potential for serious dental injuries involved with sports in which the child participates. Some, though not all, schools reinforce the health advantage of mouthguards for their contact sports. Cost may be another consideration, although mouthguards come in a variety of price ranges.
What are the different types of mouthguards?
Stock mouthguard: The lowest cost option is a ready-made, stock item, which offers the least protection because the fit adjustment is limited. It may interfere with speech and breathing because this mouthguard requires that the jaw be closed to hold it in place. A stock mouthguard is not considered acceptable as a facial protective device.
Mouth-formed mouthguard: There are two types of mouth-formed mouthguards. The first is a shell-liner mouthguard that is made with an acrylic material that is poured into an outer shell, where it forms a lining. When placed in an athlete's mouth, the protector's lining material molds to the teeth and is allowed to set. Another type is a thermoplastic, or "boil-and-bite," mouthguard. This mouthguard is softened in hot water and then placed in the mouth and shaped around the teeth by using finger, tongue and sometimes biting pressure.
Custom-made mouthguard: The best choice is a mouthguard custom-made by your dentist. It offers the best protection, fit and comfort level because it is made from a cast to fit your teeth.
How should I care for a mouthguard?
- Clean your mouthguard by washing it with soap and cool (not hot) water.
- Before storing, soak your mouthguard in mouthwash.
- Keep your mouthguard in a well-ventilated, plastic storage box when not in use. Make sure the box has several holes so the mouthguard will dry.
- Heat is bad for a mouthguard, so don't leave it in direct sunlight or in a closed automobile.
- Don't bend your mouthguard when storing.
- Don't handle or wear someone else's mouthguard.
- Call your dentist if there are any problems.
Above article by: KnowYourTeeth.com
Siranli Dental Samantha Siranli, DMD, PhD, FACP2112 F St. NW, Suite 605Washington, DC 20037(202) 466-4530SiranliDental.com
Below is an article written by by Tracey Sandilands and found on Colgate.com
Antimicrobial therapy is a form of oral treatment used to eliminate or reduce the development of bacterial infections in the mouth. The therapy aims to prevent periodontal diseaseresulting from infections, which can cause painful, bleeding gums and loosening of your teeth.
Preparation and Treatment
If your dentist decides you will benefit from antimicrobial treatment, they will likely start with scaling and root planing. This process removes plaque and calculus (tartar) from the sulcus area around the teeth using either a scaler or instruments as well as an ultrasonic scaling device. In severe cases where there are periodontal pockets greater than 5-6 mm deep, the dentist may recommend that the patient be seen by a periodontist to evaluate the area with deeper pocketing and determine if gum surgery may be necessary. The scaling and root planing and gum surgery treatments require local anesthesia to reduce the patient's discomfort. The dental hygienist performs the scaling and root planing procedure.
During gum surgery, the periodontist makes an incision into the gum tissue, flaps the tissue back and cleans and scales the surface of the affected teeth and bone to remove the diseased tissue and infection. The gum tissue is then put back in place and sutured and the gum tissue will heal, and the periodontist will check the area a week or so after surgery. The use of an antiseptic mouthwash or antibiotic medication may be recommended for the next seven to 10 days.
Antiseptic Mouthwashes
Mouthwashes containing antiseptic ingredients help control the reproduction of the bacteria, which grow on the gum tissue in the mouth, and help to clean out the pockets around the individual teeth. The ingredients in antiseptic mouthwashes may include chlorhexidine, essential oils, and metal salts Sn11 and Zn11 to help control dental plaque and halitosis.
To read the entire article visit Colgate.com
The remainder of the article details the following:
- Antibiotic Medications
- After Treatment
A few years ago, a dental newsletter published what seemed like an unusual story. A boy snagged his teeth on a basketball net while doing a slam-dunk.A freakish accident? Not quite. After the article appeared, nearly 40 dentists wrote in with their own stories. They all told of would-be Michael Jordans who sacrificed their front teeth in pursuit of the perfect dunk.In older children and adults, sports injuries are common. Dentists estimate that between 13% and 39% of dental injuries occur while playing sports.About 80% of all dental injuries affect at least one of the front teeth. Damage to the tongue or cheek is common, too.Basic ProtectionEven if a tooth has been knocked out, it often can be saved if you get to a dentist quickly enough. Minor chips and cracks can be repaired. Dentists use tooth-colored materials that are nearly as strong as the original tooth. However, even "minor" injuries can cause serious and costly damage. If you enjoy sports or other high-risk activities, protect yourself. The use of mouth guards among football players, for example, is believed to prevent about 200,000 mouth injuries a year.Depending on the sport, two types of protection are available:
- Helmets- A helmet is a must for activities that involve speed or impact. These include football, hockey, skating and bike riding. The helmet should fit correctly. It should also be appropriate for the sport you are playing.
- Mouth guards - Wearing a mouth guard is one of the best ways to prevent injury to your teeth, tongue and lips. A custom-fit mouth guard from your dentist is recommended. This type of mouth guard usually fits better than a ready-made one (found in sporting-goods stores). That means it may protect your teeth better.
If a custom-fit mouth guard isn't an option, try a "boil-and-bite" mouth guard. You can buy one in a sporting-goods store. You place the mouth guard in boiling water. Once the plastic is soft (but not too hot), you bite down on the mouth guard and mold the softened plastic around your teeth. If the mouth guard doesn't fit comfortably the first time, you can reheat it and do it again.©2002-2013 Aetna, Inc. All rights reserved.09/25/2013The above article is from: Colgate.com
Siranli Dental Samantha Siranli, DMD, PhD, FACP2112 F St. NW, Suite 605Washington, DC 20037(202) 466-4530SiranliDental.com
Flossing helps control plaque. It can reach where a toothbrush can't, like between the teeth. Floss daily with floss and interdental cleaners that carry the American Dental Association (ADA) seal. Ask your dentist for tips if you're not sure how to floss. Like everything else, flossing gets easier with practice.
The above article is from: WebMD.com
Siranli Dental Samantha Siranli, DMD, PhD, FACP2112 F St. NW, Suite 605Washington, DC 20037(202) 466-4530SiranliDental.com
The habit: “Tooth enamel is a crystal. Ice is a crystal. When you push two crystals against each other, one will break,” Dr. Messina says. “Most of the time it’s the ice, but sometimes the tooth or a filling will break.”
The solution: Drink chilled beverages without ice, or use a straw so you're not tempted. “The risk of chewing ice is greater than any pleasure that comes from chewing it,” he says. “Besides, ice is really cold!”
To read the entire article please visit MouthHealthy.org
Siranli Dental
Samantha Siranli, DMD, PhD, FACP
2112 F St. NW, Suite 605
Washington, DC 20037
(202) 466-4530
SiranliDental.com
The habit: This nervous habit can chip teeth and impact your jaw. “Placing your jaw for long periods of time in a protruding position can place pressure on it, which is associated with jaw dysfunction,” says Dr. Ruchi Sahota.
The solution: Bitter-tasting nail polishes, stress reduction and setting small, realistic goals can help. If certain situations are triggers, hold something to keep your fingers busy.
To read the entire article please visit MouthHealthy.org
Siranli Dental
Samantha Siranli, DMD, PhD, FACP
2112 F St. NW, Suite 605
Washington, DC 20037
(202) 466-4530
SiranliDental.com
Below is an excerpt from an article found on Colgate.com that was written by AM Hopkins
Everyone knows that brushing their teeth plays a major role in their overall health, but they may not be aware of the correct way to brush their teeth. The American Dental Association recommends that you brush your teeth at least twice each day; here is a quick guide to ensure you know how to do it properly.
Purchase the right toothbrush. Before you even begin the process of brushing your teeth, it's important that you have the right toothbrush. The type of toothbrush you select depends on your specific needs. If you need a toothbrush mostly for removing plaque, a soft-bristled brush is best. On the other hand, if you are concerned about reaching hard-to-reach spaces, you should consider a toothbrush with a smaller head. in the Colgate Oral Care resources.
Take your time. You should spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth. This may seem like a long time - the average person usually falls short of this goal - but it is necessary ensure that your teeth are clean. If you're worried about reaching this goal, consider investing in a toothbrush that has an automatic timer or use a stopwatch.
Be thorough. Tilt your toothbrush to a 45 degree angle and ensure that you are cleaning both the outer and inner surfaces of your upper and lower teeth. It is equally important to clean the chewing surfaces of your teeth, as well.
Be gentle. When brushing your teeth, it's important to use short, precise strokes. This ensures that you don't cause any trauma to your mouth and that you reach the specific areas you are trying to target. You should brush the entire surface of the tooth in a gentle back and forth motion.
Don't forget your tongue. Brushing your tongue is an essential part of maintaining proper oral care. Many people often overlook this step, but it is important to both your overall oral hygiene and the freshness of your breath.
To read the entire article visit Colgate.com.
Learn more about what the American Dental Association has to say about Periodontal Screening!
The association between gum diseases and heart disease is not a secret anymore. It has always raised a question in my mind if maintaining good oral health can help me achieve good overall health. Well, the answer is “yes.” Maintaining good oral health can save us from spending thousands of dollars on preventing heart diseases. We can say that proper brushing and flossing can help us maintain a healthy heart. According to the American Academy of Periodontolgy, people with gum diseases are twice as likely to develop coronary artery disease, one of the leading causes of heart attacks.
Atherosclerosis also known as “hardening of arterial wall” is one of the major etiological factors of heart disease. This occurs due to deposition of plaque (formed by accumulation of fat and other blood substances on the arterial wall). This can eventually clog the artery leading to complete blockage of coronary arteries precipitating into stroke.
To read the entire article written by Swati Yadav, please visit ASDABlog.com
Siranli Dental
Samantha Siranli, DMD, PhD, FACP
2112 F St. NW, Suite 605
Washington, DC 20037
(202) 466-4530
SiranliDental.com
Reduce the Risk
You don’t hear about it often, but oral cancer causes one American death each hour. This mortality rate hasn’t changed in 40 years. However, there is some good news. Early detection means a 90% cure rate!
That’s why we conduct visual screenings for oral cancer at each six-month checkup or cleaning. This examination includes all of the soft tissues of your mouth, as well as your throat, neck, and head.
If the hygienist or doctors see anything that causes concern, they’ll refer you to an oral surgeon. This type of screening could literally be lifesaving!
Siranli Dental
Samantha Siranli, DMD, PhD, FACP
2112 F St. NW, Suite 605
Washington, DC 20037
(202) 466-4530
SiranliDental.com
What Is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease caused by the buildup of plaque bacteria on the tissues that surround the teeth. Plaque, a naturally occurring biofilm containing bacteria, can lead to gingivitis if not removed by daily brushing.
Who Can Get Gingivitis?Gingivitis is quite prevalent. But while almost 80% of adults will experience some symptoms of gingivitis, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s inevitable. It’s important to note that occasionally there might be no noticeable pain or apparent signs, leaving people unaware that they have it. That’s another good reason to schedule regular checkups with your dental professional every six months so he or she can identify it and suggest treatment options.
Gingivitis SymptomsSome symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Chronic gingivitis can lead to periodontitis and chronic bad breath. If these symptoms persist, it's important to talk with your dental professional to determine the best treatment. In the meantime, learn what you can do to protect against gingivitis.
To read the entire article visit OralB.com.
Siranli Dental Samantha Siranli, DMD, PhD, FACP2112 F St. NW, Suite 605Washington, DC 20037(202) 466-4530SiranliDental.com
