.

1. Cavities Are Inevitable
For many years, the focus had been primarily on repairing teeth as problems developed. However, in more recent years, with advancements in research and understanding, there is much attention given to early intervention.

Now, the focus in dentistry when it comes to cavities is examining the process of de-mineralization (cavity formation process) and re-mineralization (strengthening process to provide resistance to decay). With education, water fluoridation, access to care and continued research, this generation of children can potentially escape the battle in fighting cavities.

2. Cavities Are Just For Kids
Adults, even after a long period of having little or no difficulties, may find some challenges in preventing cavities, particularly where there is a presence of gum recession (exposing the root surface of the tooth) and changes in salivary flow. The root surface of the tooth is not as “hard” and “strong” as the enamel of the tooth and is much more easily damaged in the de-mineralization process.

Salivary flow is a concern because it provides essential minerals that aid in the re-mineralization process of the enamel. Salivary flow may be reduced significantly due to the natural changes that occur as we age. Additionally, it may be interrupted by the regular use of products that tend to dry out the mouth, including home care products (ie: alcohol-based mouthrinses).

3. Decay Begins On The Inside Of The Tooth
This myth dates back to the 1700’s when it was believed that “tooth worms” originated from within the tooth and ate their way through to the outside. It is now understood that dental decay is an infectious transmissible disease that starts with the de-mineralization process of the tooth surface.

4. Cavities Are Caused By Eating Candy Alone
While eating candy and sweets is not healthy for our teeth, it is not the sole culprit in tooth decay. Research has shown it is fermentable carbohydrates which specific bacteria in the plaque thrive on, resulting in the acidic environment in the mouth which dissolve the minerals in the tooth surface leading to de-mineralized areas. Fermentable carbohydrates would include cooked starches, simple sugars, and natural sugars in foods such as fruit.

5. In Pregnancy, The Mother’s Teeth Are Left Weak
This originated as the myth that a woman loses a tooth for every child she has. The myth continues on to claim that the unborn child draws the calcium out of the teeth leaving them brittle and weak. It is true, many changes may occur in a pregnant woman’s mouth. However, it is factors related to the pregnancy which can predispose certain conditions, not the pregnancy itself.

Certain factors that would predispose a pregnant woman to cavities include poor oral hygiene, frequent snacking and morning sickness. Hormone changes can affect the gum tissue causing the gums to become more easily irritated by the bacteria and plaque that accumulate in the mouth, leading to gingivitis. Therefore, practicing meticulous oral hygiene, balanced nutrition and seeing your hygienist for a professional teeth cleaning (even in pregnancy) is essential in minimizing, perhaps eliminating, dental health concerns.

To learn more about a Simple Daily Regimen which could help you keep your teeth young and healthy – for a lifetime click here.

For less than the price of a teeth cleaning, you can purchase everything you need to prevent gum disease and its associated health risks.
Wouldn’t it be nice to have the peace of mind that comes from knowing that you have the potential to create the healthiest mouth you’ve ever had?

For direct links to order these items online, just click on the picture below.

.

Do you think this information might also benefit your children, friends and family? If so, please pass it on!

Anti-Viral Solutions, Choosing a Waterpik, Oxyfresh Mouthrinse, Tongue Scrapers, Toothbrushes, A Note from the Oral Health Coach

.

1. Everyone should use only fluoridated toothpastes
Studies and research indicate a strong correlation between the use of fluoride and the reduction of dental caries. In fact, as a result of those findings, many schools began adopting fluoride programs and community water fluoridation was instituted.

Today, 67 percent of the U.S. public water systems use fluoride to help prevent decay. The decision to use toothpaste with or without fluoride should be determined mutually by you and your dental professional, taking into consideration your community water fluoride content and your risk for dental caries.

2. Toothpastes are essentially all the same
Toothpastes are NOT all created equal. Toothpastes carry various levels of abrasivity which, if too abrasive, can lead to sensitivity and premature wear on teeth. Many toothpastes contain colors and dyes that can stain; alcohol that is harsh and dries the mouth; saccharin and artificial flavorings.

Many high-quality toothpastes contain no artificial flavorings or dyes; they are alcohol-free and saccharin-free. They may contain safe and unique ingredients such as Xylitol and sucralose, herbs, essential oils and may offer fluoride and fluoride-free options. Read labels to ensure you and your family are using a toothpaste that is safe and effective and meets your individual needs.

3. Whitening toothpastes will whiten my teeth
Contrary to what advertisers lead us to believe, it is simply not possible for commercial whitening toothpastes to actually whiten teeth. Whitening toothpastes are not formulated with the same active ingredients or concentrations found in professional whitening systems.

These toothpastes are only able to remove some surface staining caused by foods and beverages through the action of abrasive agents. The high rate of abrasion found in most of these whitening toothpastes can lead to increased sensitivity and premature wear on teeth and cosmetic surfaces.

4.The more toothpaste I use, the cleaner my teeth
More is NOT better; it’s usually a waste. Toothpaste is designed to assist in cleaning and removing plaque, stains and food debris. Most of the cleaning action actually comes from the mechanical efforts your toothbrush provides, along with proper technique, and not how much toothpaste you’re using.

When overloading your toothbrush with toothpaste, most of it usually finds its way down the drain. Additionally, children using fluoridated toothpastes should always be supervised to apply a controlled amount of toothpaste and to avoid swallowing.

5. Using toothpaste will keep my breath fresh
Many commercial-brand toothpastes contain strong artificial flavorings that can very often illicit a mild to intense burning sensation, giving it a “fresh” feeling and providing a temporary cover-up for odorous bacteria. Simply because it feels strong in the mouth does not necessarily mean it is killing the bacteria responsible for bad breath.

There are toothpastes that contain ingredients that actually neutralize a specific group of bacteria referred to as Volatile Sulfur Compounds (VSCs). This group of bacteria is responsible for oral malodor. And, when these VSCs are neutralized, the bacteria becomes ineffective and longer lasting fresh breath is achieved — safely, effectively and without the burn!

To learn more about a Simple Daily Regimen which could help you keep your teeth young and healthy – for a lifetime click here.

For less than the price of a teeth cleaning, you can purchase everything you need to prevent gum disease and its associated health risks. Wouldn’t it be nice to have the peace of mind that comes from knowing that you have the potential to create the healthiest mouth you’ve ever had?

For direct links to order these items online, just click on the picture below.

.

Do you think this information might also benefit your children, friends and family? If so, please pass it on!

Anti-Viral Solutions, Choosing a Waterpik, Oxyfresh Mouthrinse, Tongue Scrapers, Toothbrushes, A Note from the Oral Health Coach

.

Tips on how to keep your teeth young and healthy for a lifetime.

Tongue Scraper – Remove bacteria from the top of your tongue every day.

Fold the plastic strip in half and hold it between your thumb and forefinger to create an arch, then comb it across the top of your tongue, gathering up dead skin cells.  The strip has two edges: one that grabs more bacteria and one that produces a gentler sensation but requires more use to be effective. With either edge, your goal is to remove all of the white, beige or brown film coating the upper surface of your tongue.  When the white plastic strip no longer removes any material, you’re done!

Cleaning farther back on your tongue is important but as it commonly engages the gag reflex, you may wish to scrape this area only once a week.

*Note: If bleeding occurs, you are scraping too hard! Repetition is more effective than overly vigorous scraping.

Gum Brushing – Clean under the gum line and along the margins of the teeth, every day.

Using the toothbrush dry and without toothpaste, angle the brush to the gum line and gently insert the long fine bristles under your gums.  Rock the brush side-to-side, allowing the tips of the bristles to sweep under the gums like a windshield wiper.

Spend about 10 seconds on each area, cleaning two teeth at a time. To do a thorough job, the entire process of cleaning each side of your teeth should take at least two minutes.

*Note: apply firm pressure but not so much that the bristles flare out and away from the teeth.

Mouth-Rinse – Eliminate potentially harmful microorganisms that can live on your tongue, teeth and under your gums.

Use one-to-two capfuls of undiluted Oxyfresh Anti-Microbial Mouthrinse, “swishing” vigorously for 60 seconds before spitting it out.

Note: A capful may also be used in your Waterpik for extra cleaning power!

Waterpik – Clean between teeth and along the margins of fillings or crowns every day.

The Waterpik comes with a removable charger that allows you to use the unit for up to three weeks between recharges. Read the included instructions to learn about its care and maintenance. Before its first use, charge the Waterpik for a couple of hours.

Once the unit is fully charged, unplug it from the charger before filling the water reservoir with hot bath temperature water. If desired, add a capful of Oxyfresh Mouthrinse.

Select the clear tube as the Waterpik’s attachment head. Close your lips around the tube and turn the unit on while leaning over a sink. Direct the stream of water towards your gums as well as  into the spaces between your teeth. Spend about two seconds on each tooth as you slowly walk along the margin of your gumline.

Every so often, open your mouth to allow the water to drain into the sink.

**Note: Never use the unit while it is plugged into the charger!

To summarize:
1.    Tongue Scraper – every day (clean back of tongue once a week)
2.    Gum Brushing –dry brush angled toward the gums every day
3.    Mouth-Rinse – “swish” vigorously for 60 seconds every day
4.    Waterpik – use with hot water and/or mouth-rinse every day

Amazingly, this simple process can ensure your oral health for years to come!

For less than the price of a teeth cleaning, you can purchase everything you need to prevent gum disease and its associated health risks. Wouldn’t it be nice to have the peace of mind that comes from knowing that you have the potential to create the healthiest mouth you’ve ever had?
.

For direct links to order these items online, just click on the picture below.

.

Do you think this information might also benefit your children, friends and family? If so, please pass it on!

Anti-Viral Solutions, Choosing a Waterpik, Oxyfresh Mouthrinse, Tongue Scrapers, Toothbrushes, A Note from the Oral Health Coach

.

5 reasons to use Xylitol as part of your daily home care

1. Xylitol reduces the risk of cavities

Cavities are typically formed when there is a highly acidic environment in the mouth. This can occur through many different means, including eating and/or drinking acidic beverages and foods (mostly sweets) and fermentable carbohydrates (breads, pastas); using products that are high in alcohol content, contain sugar or are acidic in nature; or simply by failing to remove the bacteria which thrives in this environment. The presence of xylitol has an effect on this acidic environment by bringing the pH to a safe and neutral level, thereby reducing the risk of decay. In fact, studies have clearly demonstrated that regular use of xylitol in dental products can reduce tooth decay by up to 80 percent.

2. Xylitol keeps your mouth moist and healthy

Xylitol actually encourages healthy salivary flow, which is instrumental in washing away food particles. This not only aids in keeping the mouth cleaner, it promotes longer-lasting fresh breath by bathing your teeth and tissues. Increasing salivary production is especially important for people suffering with dry mouth, which can be caused from aging, illness, cancer treatment and medications.

3. Xylitol repairs enamel

Xylitol can actually help build stronger, healthier teeth by restoring essential minerals to the tooth structure. With a healthy neutral pH and salivary flow, calcium and phosphate ions are freely delivered to the enamel — including areas of weakened enamel. These minerals support the tooth in repair and remineralization. In fact, research has shown a reversal of early stages of damage to the enamel with a prolonged use of xylitol.

4. Xylitol is a safe and unique alternative to fluoride

Xylitol is naturally occurring and found in many fruits and vegetables including berries and mushrooms. Xylitol has been used in Europe as a popular sugar substitute since the 1970s and has been approved for use in over 35 countries. Due to the controversial attention fluoride has received over the years there are those who prefer an alternative in their home care products, Xylitol has given us that option.

CLOSING THOUGHTS
As studies continue to pour in supporting the efficacy, health benefits and unsurpassed safety record of Xylitol, Oxyfresh Anti-Microbial Mouthrinse is proud to be a pioneer in the formulation of professional-grade dental products that contain the increasingly popular natural sweetener. Oxyfresh is the only proven breath management system to offer xylitol in a customizable, long-term Periodontal Management Homecare Program that also supports cosmetic dentistry, while providing effective relief for dry mouth sufferers.

For less than the price of a teeth cleaning, you can purchase everything you need to prevent gum disease and its associated health risks. Wouldn’t it be nice to have the peace of mind that comes from knowing that you have the potential to create the healthiest mouth you’ve ever had?

For direct links to order these items online, just click on the picture below.

.

Do you think this information might also benefit your children, friends and family? If so, please pass it on!

Anti-Viral Solutions, Choosing a Waterpik, Oxyfresh Mouthrinse, Tongue Scrapers, Toothbrushes, A Note from the Oral Health Coach

The results are in, and the patients at WLA Dental are getting healthier! Yes, after 12 months of adopting the new Anti-Viral Protocol at this dental office, the patients are showing a significant reduction in the signs and symptoms of gum disease.

USC DENTAL SCHOOL GRADUATES
The entire professional staff are graduates of the USC School of Dentistry. Many currently teach, or have at some time taught, at the Dental School. In 209 a Continuing Education Lecture, outlining Jorgen Slot’s latest recommendations in the treatment gum disease was given to the USC faculty and WLA Dental Center used it to totally re-invent their dental hygiene department protocol.

THE NEW PROTOCOL
After an initial evaluation of pocket depth and inflammation, prior to scaling, each patient is irrigated with a Piezo scaler and Oxyfresh Anti-Microbial Mouthrinse, and then polished to remove the soft bacterial plaque bio-film. (so as to reduce the possibility of introducing bacteria into their blood stream during scaling)

Then, hand instruments are used in a traditional manner to remove the hard calculus deposits. Lastly, the teeth are painted with Povidone Iodine, along with using a delicate blunt tipped needle to introduce Povidone Iodine into deeper areas of pocketing.

The Patient Home Care Routine

A major key to the success of this protocol was the Home Care Routine. All patients with bleeding gums are encouraged to rinse daily with Oxyfresh Anti-Microbial Mouthinse. Patients were also being given a Tongue Scraper, with a hands on demonstration on how to effectively remove dead skin cells from the back-most part of the tongue. Lastly, if the patient struggled with flossing, or had a significant number of dental restorations, they were given instructions on the use of a Waterpik.

If you would be interested in learning how to implement this program in your dental office, please feel free to contact me.

For direct links to order these items online, just click on the picture below.

.

.Do you think this information might also be of benefit to your children, friends and family? If so, please pass it on!

Tags: Free, Bleeding Gums, Cure, Waterpik Dental Water Jet, Nimbus toothbrush, tongue scraper, Oxyfresh Mouthrinse