Electric Toothbrush: How do you choose?

Since the introduction of the power toothbrush in the 1960s, this tool has undergone many technological advances, from design and bristle motions to rotation oscillation and sonic vibration.

What is rotation oscillation? That’s when the head of the toothbrush alternately rotates in one direction and then the other. Power toothbrushes can deliver up to 50,000 strokes per minute, which is much more effective than the average 300 strokes per minute with a manual toothbrush.

A smaller brush head is available for hard-to-reach areas, which is a good alternative for small mouths. The brush heads are replaceable and should be changed every three to six months. Each member of your family should have his or her own brush head while sharing the base motor.  Check the handle size. A large handle is better for members of the household with arthritis, children, or family with other physical disabilities.

A rechargeable toothbrush is ideal. It should deliver enough power on a full charge for one week of brushing.

It is best to brush for a minimum of two minutes. Some electric toothbrushes include a signal you can hear, such as a beep every 30 seconds, to indicate it’s time to switch to a different area of the mouth. Others sound an alert after the full two minutes has elapsed.

Will an electric toothbrush harm the teeth or gums? Studies indicate that people tend to apply more damaging pressure to their teeth and gums during manual brushing than when they use an electric toothbrush. If you experience tooth sensitivity, choose a model with pressure sensors that stop the toothbrush any time you press too hard.

Who would benefit from an electric toothbrush? Everyone! Consumers with a physical disability may have specific needs that power toothbrushes can address. Children also tend to maintain better oral health hygiene when they use an automatic toothbrush. Plus, many of them find it fun to brush!

Automatic toothbrushes really do remove debris better than the old-fashioned way. You may have heard the term “biofilm.” Better known as plaque when it occurs in the mouth, biofilm is the debris and bacteria that cause infections to your teeth. It regenerates quickly, so healthy habits are the best defense for a healthier you! With a healthier mouth, you face a lower risk of gum disease and other conditions like heart disease: mouth health has been linked to heart health.

When you’re ready to make your decisions, be a wise comparison shopper. Consult with Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. to decide what is best for you! Call us today at (800) 223-0801.

The Truth About Chewing Gum

Chewing gum is a popular activity for people of all ages.  While chewing gum may be fun and a good way to kill time or stave off boredom, is it a healthy activity for your oral health?

Chewing Gum is Full of Sugar, Chemicals, and Artificial Sweeteners that Lead to Tooth Decay

Probably the number one reason to avoid most chewing gums is that they are loaded with chemical and synthetic ingredients. 

It is surprising how some caregivers who would never dream of giving a child a diet soda don’t think twice about doling out sugarless gum with similar neurotoxic sweeteners.

Sugared gums can with heavy use cause tooth decay, gum disease and cavities. This happens because sugar coats the teeth, and can slowly cause damaging of tooth enamel if they are not immediately brushed. To reduce harmful effects of sugared gums, seek out gum brands that use smaller quantities of sugar.

Chewing Gum Contributes to the Development of TMJ and Other Jaw Problems

Oral surgeons at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas contend that too much gum chewing causes jaw stress.  Dr. Sinn, a UT Southwestern oral surgeon, warns that jaw soreness, jaw “clicking” or pain in the jaw, head, or neck can be signs of TMJ syndrome and that gum chewing should be discontinued should such symptoms emerge.

Given that gum chewing is commonly used to relieve stress, Dr. Sinn suggests other methods for reducing tension such as squeezing a ball, relaxation techniques or regular exercise to avoid the risk of chronic jaw problems. If you think you may suffer from TMJ, contact your dentist for an exam.

Chewing Gum Releases Mercury from Amalgam Fillings

Probably the most important reason to abstain from chewing gum is that it releases mercury from dental amalgam fillings.  A Swedish study found that people with silver fillings who chew gum for 5 hours or more each day had significantly higher levels of mercury in their blood and urine than those people with silver fillings who chewed gum infrequently.

Mercury levels in the blood, urine, and breath at exhalation increased in proportion to the number of silver fillings each study participant had.

Given that mercury is neurotoxic in any amounts in the body, it seems that chewing gum is an activity that should be undertaken with extreme caution if one has even a single silver filling.

Skip the Gum if Pregnant with Silver Fillings

For pregnant women with silver fillings, chewing gum can prove toxic to the fetus if mercury is released into the bloodstream.  Many pregnant women chew gum to help relieve heartburn or indigestion and yet the dangers of this activity if one has dental amalgams are not readily provided at prenatal visits even though mercury easily crosses the placenta.

In some circumstances such as these, chewing gum can be therapeutic. In most cases, though, it should be avoided as an activity that really is not very health promoting.

Irregular development of facial muscles

Extensive chewing of gum in puberty may lead to the stimulation of jawbone and facial muscles and creation of larger face.

For more information about oral health call Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S., today at (800) 223-0801.

Heart and Oral Health

This is American Heart Month, sponsored by the American Heart Association. Did you know there may be a link between gum disease and heart disease? In 2012, the American Heart Association published a statement supporting that association. Research has shown how people with gum disease are more likely to also have heart disease.

Preventing heart disease is another good reason to take care of your gums and to see your dentist regularly. Gum disease, or periodontitis, is an infection of the tissues that support the teeth and can lead to tooth loss. According to the American Heart Association, people with periodontitis often have risk factors that put both their mouth and their cardiovascular system at risk. Heart disease is the #1 killer of men and women in the U.S.

February is a good time to make sure you are taking care of both your teeth and your heart!

Many of the risk factors for gum disease are also risk factors for heart disease.

Those risk factors for both gum disease and cardiovascular disease that we can control include the following:

Ø  Diabetes

Ø  Diet

Ø  Physical activity

Ø  Tobacco use

Ø  Obesity

Ø  High blood pressure

Ø  High cholesterol

Knowing this connection, it isn't surprising to see how people who have chronic gum disease are people who are at a higher risk for a heart attack. But remember—that’s a list of risk factors we can control and manage through good habits.

To steps to take to avoid gum disease:

1.    Brush teeth at least twice a day

2.    Floss your teeth daily

3.    Eat a well-balanced diet

4.    Get regular dental check-ups and cleanings

To steps to protect your health:

1.    Do not smoke

2.    Manage your weight

3.    Control your blood pressure

4.    Stay physically active

To learn more about ways to help you oral hygiene and overall health call Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. today at (800) 223-0801. 

February National Children's Dental Health Month

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month and the American Dental Association and Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. encourage all kids to join the Super Smile Team and fight to good oral health!

Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease affecting children, and unfortunately, kids who develop cavities in their baby teeth are more prone to develop cavities in their permanent teeth as well.

How to protect children's teeth from decay?

Prolonged exposure to sugar containing liquids can cause tooth decay, so limit your child's consumption of beverages that contain sugar, such as soft drinks, sports drinks, and sweetened fruit juices. If you give your child a sippy cup for long periods of time, fill it only with water and do not allow them to take it to bed. Children should be encouraged to drink from a regular cup as early as possible. since it minimizes the duration of time that the liquid are in contact with the teeth.  Limit sugary or starchy snack, especially those that can remain stuck to or in between the teeth after eating.

When should my child see a Dentist?

It is a good idea to start bringing your child to the Dentist on a regular basis at the age of two, unless you notice obvious dark spots on the teeth before that time. Early visits help familiarize your child with the dental office, reducing anxiety and making future visits less stressful. At your child's visits to our office, we will examine the health and development of their teeth and mouth and review good and preventive oral habits which should be reinforced at home. Feel free to bring your child to your dental cleaning appointments, in order for them to see that mom and dad also get their teeth cleaned. 

If you have questions about your child's dental health or to make an appointment call Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. today at (800) 223-0801. 

Start the New Year with Whiter Teeth

How Flossing Can Whiten Your Teeth

Whitening floss is one the many options now available to you when choosing a dental floss.

This is because floss brands are looking to capitalize on the increasing popularity of tooth-whitening products, which also include whitening toothpastes and whitening mouthwash.

Whitening floss doesn't actually bleach the teeth. Instead, it makes your teeth look whiter by doing a better job of removing the particles between them, similar to the way that vacuuming or dusting rugs or furniture doesn't actually change their color, but the colors look brighter when you remove the dust and dirt.

Some types of whitening floss are coated with microscopic abrasive silica particles. Others are treated with compounds such as calcium peroxide that can help dissolve some of the excess proteins that saliva deposits on the teeth that can cause discoloration. But the main way that floss improves the appearance of the teeth is by removing food particles and bacterial plaque to keep your gums healthy. Your teeth will look brighter and healthier if you maintain healthy gums, which you can do by flossing daily with whitening floss or any other type of floss that you like.

Keep in mind that whitening floss, whitening mouthwash, and whitening toothpaste can only provide modest changes in tooth color. If you have severely stained teeth, tooth-colored crowns, or implants, you may require special attention to make them whiter. In that case, talk to your dentist.

Want a new white smile for the New Year come see Dr. Alina Bergan DDS.

Tooth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel and is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile.
Because having whiter teeth has now become the number one aesthetic concern of most patients, there are a number of ways to whiten teeth.  The most popular method is using a home tooth whitening system that will whiten teeth dramatically.  Since tooth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc.  Replacement of any restorations will be done after bleaching so they will match the newly bleached teeth.
Tooth whitening is not permanent.  A touch-up maybe needed every several years, and more often if you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or wine.

Reasons for tooth whitening:

·         Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during tooth development).

·         Normal wear of outer tooth layer.

·         Stained teeth due to medications (tetracycline, etc.).

·         Yellow, brown stained teeth.

What does tooth whitening involve?

This type of tooth whitening usually requires two visits.  At the first appointment, impressions (molds) will be made of your teeth to fabricate custom, clear plastic, trays.

At your second appointment, you will try on the trays for proper fit, and adjustments will be made if necessary.  The trays are worn with special whitening solution either twice a day for 30 minutes or overnight for a couple of weeks depending on the degree of staining and desired level of whitening.  It is normal to experience tooth sensitivity during the time you are whitening your teeth, but it will subside shortly after you have stopped bleaching.

You will receive care instructions for your teeth and trays, and be encouraged to visit your dentist regularly to help maintain a beautiful, healthy, white smile.

Call us to schedule your teeth whitening appointment call Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S., today at (800) 223-0801

New Year, New You: New Year’s Resolutions for a Healthy Smile

With the New Year approaching, you may have already begun to think about your New Year’s resolutions. You may be considering resolving to save money, get a better job or lose weight. Many people set new goals about having a healthier lifestyle in the New Year. Why not make one of your New Year’s resolutions improving your dental health?

Healthy resolutions can keep your teeth healthy, and any of the following strategies will go a long way toward giving you a brighter, healthier smile in the coming year:

Eat Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables

Eating well is important for your dental health. Poor nutrition can affect the entire immune system, increasing susceptibility to many common oral disorders, including gum (periodontal) disease. Antioxidants and other nutrients found in fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts improve your body’s ability to fight bacteria and inflammation, helping to protect your teeth and gums. In addition, crisp fruits and raw vegetables like apples, carrots and celery help clean plaque from teeth and freshen your breath.

Quit Smoking or Using Other Tobacco Products

Using tobacco can harm your mouth in a number of ways, increasing your risk for tooth discoloration, cavities, gum recession, gum disease and throat, lung and oral cancer. Smokers are about twice as likely to lose their teeth as non-smokers. It’s not just smoking tobacco that has negative effects on your oral health: use of smokeless tobacco can be just as harmful to your oral health. The good news is that the risk of tooth loss decreases after you quit smoking or using smokeless tobacco.

Limit Your Alcohol Intake

You may already know that excessive alcohol intake can have an effect on your overall health, but did you know that it may also affect your oral health? According to the Academy of General Dentistry, those who smoke, eat poorly and consume excessive alcohol also have increased gum recession (periodontal pocketing). Their studies show that smokers who regularly consume alcohol are less likely to brush their teeth on a regular basis and are less concerned about their basic health than nonsmokers. Try to brush your teeth after drinking alcohol, especially red wine.

Brush at Least Twice a Day and Floss at Least Once a Day

Brushing and flossing protect your teeth from decay and gum disease, which is caused by your teeth’s most persistent enemy, plaque – a sticky, colorless, invisible film of harmful bacteria that builds up on your teeth every day. Both brushing and flossing are equally important for good oral health: according to the Academy of General Dentistry, only flossing can remove plaque from between teeth and below the gumline, where decay and gum disease often begins.

Without proper brushing and flossing, you may develop bleeding gums, which may worsen to severely swollen, red, bleeding gums (gingivitis) and, eventually, gum disease. Because diseases of the mouth can affect the rest of your body, it is especially important to maintain good oral health.

See Your Dentist for Regular Checkups

By seeing your dentist at least twice a year, you can help prevent any dental health problems before they cause discomfort or require more comprehensive or expensive treatment. Regular visits allow your dentist to monitor your oral health and recommend a dental health regimen to address areas of concern.

For this New Year, resolve to treat your mouth right: improve your diet, quit smoking and improve your oral hygiene habits – your teeth and your body will thank you for it!

For more information about oral health call Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S., today at (800) 223-0801.

Give Yourself the Gift of Good Oral Health this Holiday Season

'Tis the season for giving, but remember to give yourself the most important gift of all this holiday season: a healthy smile! Maintaining good oral hygiene during the holiday season is more important than ever, advises Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. 

Holiday get-togethers tend to lead people to consume sugary treats and drink alcoholic beverages more than usual. Additionally, with busy schedules and increased stress levels, many peoples' oral hygiene suffers. Many forget the most basic of oral hygiene tasks that can counteract the effects of sugary snacks and drinks.

 If all you want this holiday season is to keep your two front teeth, or all of your teeth for that matter, then check out Dr. Bergan's tips on how to save your smile.

Wine

Whether red or white, the high acidity levels in wine can eat away at a tooth's enamel. Tooth enamel is critical in the protection against decay and cavities. To avoid damage, refrain from swishing the wine around in your mouth, and drink water in between beverages to rinse the teeth of the acid. Cheers! 

Sugary Treats

Bacteria in the mouth thrive on the sugars found in candy canes, chocolate, and holiday goodies, increasing the likelihood of developing cavities. If you are not able to brush and floss after munching on sweet treats, drink water or chew a piece of sugarless gum. This will boost saliva flow in the mouth and help wash away bacteria. 

Stress

Holiday anxiety can cause people to grind or clench their teeth, causing jaw pain, headaches, and chipping. "Finding ways to alleviate your anxiety can help, but it's also important to see your dentist, who can recommend solutions like a custom night guard," advises Dr. Bergan. "Wearing a guard at night will prevent you from taking out the holiday stress on your teeth while you sleep."

 Remember that the gift of oral health is one that keeps on giving all year long!

 "A healthy smile should always be at the top of your wish list," says Dr. Bergan. "Brush and floss your teeth twice daily and schedule an appointment to see your general dentist at least twice a year."

For more information about holiday oral health call Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S., today at (800) 223-0801.