Brush Twice a Day to Keep Heart Disease Away!

By AustinDentalSpa on July 29, 2010

Posted in Dentistry FAQ's, Oral Conditions, oral health

That’s right. According to a report published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) in May 2010, people can significantly reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease if they brush their teeth twice daily.

Previous studies have already demonstrated the link between cardiovascular disease and gum disease (periodontal disease). It has also been well documented that inflammation of the gums and mouth, which may be undetectable to individuals, is a significant contributor to plaque that can limit blood flow and block arteries. According to the results of Professor Richard Watt from University College London, and the rest of the research team in the Britan,  number of times individuals brush their teeth has a significant impact on the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

Over 11,000 adults who participated in a Scottish Healthy Survey provided information about their lifestyle habits including: physical activity, oral health routines, smoking, and dental visit regimens.  Then, medical history and family history information was gathered from hospital admission and death records to compare the degree of body inflammation, one of the biggest contributors to heart disease.   The totals, as follows:

• Over 60% of the participants visit their dentist every six months
• Over 70% brush their teeth twice a daily.
• Participants who had poor oral hygiene tested positive for inflammatory markers such as the C-reactive protein and fibrinogen.

Then, this data was compared to cardiovascular disease risk factors such as social class, smoking, obesity and family history of heart disease to find that people who brushed their teeth less than twice daily were at a 70% increased risk for heart disease compared to individuals who brushed their teeth twice a day. These study results are not considered conclusive to date, but do suggest the need for further studies to support the validity of claims. In the meantime, we have another reason to be certain to have a perfect oral health day.

If you are interested in identifying your risk factors for oral inflammation, call Dr. Mark Sweeney, an Austin Texas dentist at (512) 452-9296.

Ying and Yang of Mouth Bacteria

By AustinDentalSpa on July 26, 2010

Posted in Biofilm Treatment, Dentistry FAQ's, gum disease, Oral Conditions

We all have good and bad bacteria microbes that inhabit our bodies. Our immune system is responsible for fending off harmful organisms like bacteria, fungi and viruses while maintaining a healthy balance of good and bad bacteria. Our immune system may fail to maintain a natural bacterial balance when the immune system is weakened, hormones change, smoking, good bacteria is destroyed, dry mouth syndrome occurs, and ph balance and acidity levels are thrown off kilter. Certain medications such as chemotherapy, antibiotics and steroids can trigger an imbalance in bacteria. Medical conditions such as diabetes and anemia may foster a bacterial imbalance. Denture wear may also put you at risk for imbalance of your bacteria.

Bacterial imbalance is also a root cause for diseases and oral conditions such as thrush and gum disease. In the end, our bodily systems are not immune to the concept of Ying and Yang.
For these reasons, it’s important to know how to maintain your balance of good and bad bacteria.

To maintain the proper balance of good and bad bacteria in your mouth, consider these tips:

• Drink plenty of H2O and rinse your mouth at least twice daily and more often following the use of medications and asthma inhalers.
• Brush you teeth twice daily and floss to remove bacteria causing food debris between your teeth.
• Limit intake of sugar and yeast-containing foods to prevent the growth of fungal Candida. Eat fresh culture yogurt containing lactobacillus acidophilus or bifid bacterium. Ask you physician about acidophilus capsules if you are taking antibiotics.
• Visit your dentist for general dentistry check ups at least twice a year or more often when recommended by your dentist.
• Maintain a healthy balance of biofilms, a layer of bacterial, fungal and viral pathogens,   in your mouth. A select number of dentists offer biofilm treatment if your biofilms are out of order.

If you are interested in fighting off your biofilms, call Dr. Mark Sweeney, an Austin Texas dentist certified in biofilm treatment at (512) 452-9296.

Gum Disease Causing Bacteria May Provide Hints about Neurodegenerative Disorder Treatments

By AustinDentalSpa on July 24, 2010

Posted in Biofilm Treatment, gum disease, Oral Conditions

At the annual meeting of the American Society for Microbiology in San Diego recently, researchers from the University of Florida announced a study of the mutant strain called P. gingivalis (PG0717) and how this mutant may affect  Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and other neurological diseases.

Scientists do not know how these neurodegenerative diseases surface, but researchers Progulske-Fox and her colleagues know that clustered proteins form plaque build up that can affect people’s neurons. The researchers believe that if cells can be directed to breakdown cell waste products, plaque build up will not develop which would potentially prevent the advent of such neurodegenerative diseases as well as assist in the recovery from such diseases.

Previous study evidence demonstrates that the ability for affected cells to break down plaque build-ups has a very significant impact on the recovery from neurodegenerative diseases. The researchers believe that ability to activate autophagy within these cells can be priceless in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. Autophagy is a naturally occurring biological process in which cells degrade and stimulates the recycling of cell derivatives into amino acids that can be used by the body. Researchers believe that their study of P. gingivalis will help identify how this mutant strain ignites autophagy in host cells which would potentially lead to innovative treatments for neurodegenerative disorders. In previous Porphyromonas gingivalis studies, these researchers found that the bacterium Porphyromonas gingivalis can activate autophagy when exposed to a human cell line.

Scientists in the dental community have already established that biofilms, comprised of bacteria and fungal pathogens, which exist in the mouth can trigger gum disease and are linked to a variety of serious medical conditions. You can fight off biofilms with treatments offered by a select number of dentists certified in biofilm treatment. Biolfim treatment can be a step in the right direction to fight off inflammatory markers that are linked to diseases.

If you are interested in fighting off your biofilms, call Dr. Mark Sweeney, an Austin Texas dentist certified in biofilm treatment at (512) 452-9296.

Veterans in Several States Exposed to Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV pathogens during Dentistry

By AustinDentalSpa on July 22, 2010

Posted in Forty Plus Dentistry, Oral Conditions, Thirty Plus Dentistry

Veterans who received dental treatment from February 1, 2009 to March 11, 2009 at certain VA Centers may be at risk for Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV due to a breach in sanitation processes. It is estimated that 18,000 veterans in Missouri, Illinois and other states have been exposed to these disease pathogens during treatment for oral health conditions within the date above mentioned range. It is not known if Texas is one of those states.  However, Texan veterans can contact the VA to identify if they may be affected by this breach and may request a blood test to rule out the presence of Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV pathogens.

To date, the St. Louis VA Medical Center at the John Cochran Division has sent nearly 2,000 letters to veterans announcing the breach in dental practices and risk for Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV. So, not all affected veterans may be aware of these disease risks at this point in time. Congressman Russ Carnahan of Missouri has demanded a formal investigation and has contacted the White House, the Veterans Administration, and the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs regarding this matter.

If you feel you have been affected, you can contact a veteran medical center near you to schedule an appointment for blood tests that can identify and rule out the risk.

Sterilization is an important process for all dental professionals. Dentists take precautions to avoid the risk of transmitting disease ridden pathogens to patients. In fact, many private dentists have been on the forefront of going green to prevent pollutants from contaminating dental equipment and our environment.

If you are interested in learning more about precautions taken at dental practices to prevent the risk of disease, contact Dr. Mark Sweeney, an Austin Texas dentist at 512-380-1300.

Choosing Your Cosmetic Dentist

By AustinDentalSpa on July 20, 2010

Posted in cosmetic dentistry, Dentistry FAQ's

Whether you are deciding on tooth whitening, composite fillings, bonding, veneers or dental implants, one of the most important aspects in your decision is in the selection of your dentist. When you go for a dentistry consultation, you may be equipped with intraoral photos, before and after photographs, tooth impressions, study models and the like, and the details about your dentist can play a role in the success of your treatment.

Advanced Training and Experience: Training varies among cosmetic dentists. Those that are sustaining members of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry are more likely to have the most experience performing cosmetic dentistry procedures. Advanced cosmetic dentists also tend to use the latest technology to perform procedures such as laser dentistry and sedation dentistry. Full mouth reconstruction experience is also highly desirable in cosmetic dentistry professionals because procedures like dental crowns, root canals, and bridges can affect your bite which can impact the longevity of cosmetic dentistry procedures.  So, it’s wise to ask your dentist about the organizations they participate in, the technology that they have been trained to use, and the types of procedures they have focused on.

Proof in Results: Cosmetic dentists with experience in such procedures usually have a gallery of before and after photos that you can view to obtain an idea of the outcome you can expect to receive from treatment. They may also use imaging technology and study models to provide a preview of the results you can achieve. If you are interested in dental veneers, you may receive temporary veneers until the permanent veneers are made so you can experience firsthand the comfortable fit, color and shape of your new teeth.

Patient Comforts: Cosmetic dentists may offer relaxing music, special comfort chairs and the like to help you be relaxed for your procedure. Some dentists offer sedation dentistry for total relaxation. Some incorporate a dental spa atmosphere to allow for the most comfortable experience.

Aftercare Support: Since you may have questions following treatment, it’s nice to know your dentist’s policies for after-hour support. Cosmetic dentists may be personally available to address any questions that may come up following treatment.

It might now be time to know more about the types of procedures available in cosmetic dentistry. You also may want to know the frequently asked questions about these types of treatment. With a bit of due diligence, you can soon be ready to enjoy the benefits of cosmetic dentistry!

If you are interested in learning more about cosmetic dentistry, call Dr. Mark Sweeney, an Austin Texas cosmetic dentist at (512) 452-9296.

Cosmetic Dentistry FAQ

By AustinDentalSpa on July 18, 2010

Posted in cosmetic dentistry, Dentistry FAQ's

To bring your teeth back to a beautifully whitened color, repair tooth decay with tooth-like composite fillings, bond or veneer chips, cracks and gaps, or implant a tooth to compensate for tooth loss, you’ll want to consider cosmetic dentistry. But, of course, the first consideration is the most frequently asked questions that people have about cosmetic dentistry.

1. How does cosmetic dentistry focus on the aesthetic appeal of the teeth?
Compared to traditional dental procedures, cosmetic dentistry offers aesthetic appeal because of the materials used during the procedures. Whitening solutions containing peroxide gel transform discolored teeth into attractive whitened teeth. Compared to silver metal dental fillings, composite fillings use a composite resin material that mimics the appearance of your natural tooth color. Bonding also uses a composite resin material to fill in little chips, uneven edges, cracks, grooves, and gaps.  For more serious imperfections and severe tooth discolorations, veneers are comprised of laminate sheets of porcelain or composite resin to create a white well aligned smile. For tooth loss, dental implants provide strong and durable metal roots with tooth colored crowns for a permanent solution.

2. Are these treatments painful?
These treatments are not considered painful. Some people experience temporary tooth sensitivity following tooth whitening. Sedation dentistry may be used to prevent discomfort during a composite filling, bonding veneer or dental implant procedure.

3. Are these treatments long lasting?
Teeth whitening may last up to six months Composite dental fillings may last seven to ten years. Bonding may last a lifetime.  Porcelain veneers last 10-15 years and composite resin veneers last 5-7 years. The longevity in the results of the above mentioned procedures may be affected by lifestyle, chewing and bite habits, but can be maintained with follow up treatments for a reasonable cost. Dental implants are permanent.

4. Are these treatments expensive?
Costs for cosmetic dentistry are sensible when considering the benefits.  For $400.00 or more, in-office tooth whitening can be performed. From $200.00 to $20.00, you can choose from a host of professionally dispensed and over-the-counter whitening kits that produce results over time instead of in one session with in-office whitening. Your out-of-pocket expense for composite dental fillings is roughly one half of the cost of the filling.  Veneers cost between $250.00 and $2500 per tooth, depending upon the type. Dental implants range from $2,000 to $6,000, depending upon your insurance, your dentist, and the type of materials used. Dental financing is available for cosmetic dentistry procedures to help you manage the costs.

Now that you’ve gotten the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions, it may be time to receive the rest of the answers that you need in order to make a well educated decision. So, perhaps, it’s time to consider a consultation with a dentist. After all, treatment can usually be complete in one to two visits and you’ll be able to enjoy wonderful results right after treatment.

If you are interested in cosmetic dentistry, call Dr. Mark Sweeney, an Austin Texas cosmetic dentist at (512) 452-9296.

Senior Dental Care Top Five Tips

By AustinDentalSpa on July 16, 2010

Posted in Senior Dentistry

Here is a refresher course on the basics for a senior’s dental wellness:
1) Make and keep general dentistry appointments. Your dentist is your friend, advocate and “mouth mechanic” to make sure you can keep your teeth for a lifetime.  With all teeth in place, you’ll be able to keep yourself chewing, swallowing and talking properly.

2) Practice proper dental hygiene per your dentist’s instructions. This includes: regular brushing, flossing and mouthwash rinsing techniques to ensure food particles and possible build-up go down the drain instead of remaining in your mouth. Ask for a recommendation on preferred toothpastes, flossers, and other dental appliances to keep your teeth clean and gums healthy.

3) Again, you and your caregiver, if you have one, are the best monitors of your dental care. If your teeth are sensitive or loose, gums bleed or if you have pain, sores, swelling, grinding, swallowing or chewing difficulties, or jaw alignment issues (popping or clicking), immediately consult your dentist.

4) If you have dentures or bridges, do not neglect their ongoing care. Visit your dentist for regular alignments to accommodate for changes. If you are having problems with your dentures or bridges, you may want to consider cosmetic dentistry.

5) Be sure to communicate with your dentist about any medications that you are taking or changes to medication as these can impact your mouth and dental procedures. For some medical conditions, especially heart-related, it is recommended that patients have a course of antibiotics prior to dental work.

Seniors, keep making positive decisions each day to keep eating, smiling, and enjoying your latter years free from unnecessary dental pain and problems.

If you are interested in senior dental care, call Dr. Mark Sweeney, an Austin Texas dentist at (512) 452-9296.

Laser Dentistry Takes the Pain and Anxiety Out

By AustinDentalSpa on July 13, 2010

Posted in Uncategorized

For precision, comfort, effectiveness and safety, you’ll want to consider the use of a laser in your dental procedures.  Since only 6% of all dentists use a laser for dentistry procedures, it’s important to ask your dentist if he or she has a laser so you can enjoy the benefits and beautiful results.

The Laser Advantage
• Eliminates the need for stitches in some dental procedures.
• Eliminates the need for anesthesia is some dental procedures, while still providing a virtually pain free experience.
• Limits blood loss that can otherwise be discomforting.
• Reduces damage to surrounding tissue.
• Seals off wounds to speed up healing.
• Stimulates tissue regeneration.
• Reduces the risk of bacterial infection.

Lasers serve needs for many areas in dentistry, including: general dentistry, restorative dentistry and cosmetic dentistry.   Aside from helping you to feel more comfortable without anxiety, lasers offer a wealth of possibilities. This state-of-the-art technology is used in a wide variety of dentistry procedures, including:

• Cavity Detection
• Dental Filling and Tooth Preparation, except for the replacement of amalgam fillings, onlays or crowns.
• Tooth Sensitivity
• Crown Lengthening
• Gummy Smile
• Muscle Attachment (Frenula)
• Speech Impediments
• Soft Tissue Folds (Epulis) from Ill Fitting Dentures
• Benign Tumors
• Cold Sores
• Nerve Regeneration
• Sleep Apnea Due to Tissue Overgrowth
•Teeth Whitening
• Temporomandibular Joint Treatment

If you are interested in laser dentistry, call Dr. Mark Sweeney, an Austin Texas dentist who incorporates the use of a laser in his dental treatments at (512) 452-9296.

Gum Disease Prevention, Detection and Treatment

By AustinDentalSpa on July 12, 2010

Posted in Biofilm Treatment, Dentistry FAQ's, gum disease, Oral Conditions

If you are like many people that know they are at risk for periodontal disease, you can have comfort in knowing that there are advanced technologies to identify your risk, simple ways to prevent it and improved techniques for treatment. One thing is for certain. A multi-prong approach focusing on detection, prevention and treatment offers the best opportunity for you to prevent the condition from progressing over time. Check out the details!

Detection

• Micro-IDent® Plus Technology: This technology allows for simple early detection of bacteria that may cause periodontal disease. It’s a pain free treatment that is offered by a select number of dentists and can be performed during your dental check up.

• GenoType PST™ Plus Testing: This diagnostic tool can detect if you are at risk for periodontal disease and helps to develop a comprehensive treatment plan. This technology is often available at dental practices that focus on periodontal disease.

Prevention

• Plaque Removal: Plaque can be removed at home by having the perfect oral health day. Plaque must also be removed at a higher level at least twice a year through professional general dentistry cleanings twice a year or more often, when necessary.

• Biofilm Removal: Most everyone has some degree of biofilms which consists of layers of bacteria pathogens, fungi and toxins in the mouth. When biofilms penetrate pockets between gum tissue and the teeth, periodontal (gum disease) occurs. A select number of dentists offer Perio Protect in which a mouth tray containing oxygenating agents can be used to kill bacteria in the mouth. If you are interested in a home approach, Carie Free offers a variety of gel toothpastes, mouth rinses and gums that combine fluoride, xylitol and pH neutralizing agents to prevent and treat dental infections.

• Metabolic and Hormonal Balance: Pregnancy, puberty and menopause may alter the organic balance of the oral cavity which can contribute to periodontal disease. See your physician to learn how you can maintain a steady metabolic and hormonal balance.

• Medical Condition Management: Certain medical conditions can affect metabolic balance and nutrients in the oral cavity so it’s important to see your dentist regularly if you are being treated for a medical condition. Certain medications that are used to treat medical conditions may adversely affect the gums such as overgrown gums (common in kidney patients) and dry mouth syndrome (a side effect associated with many medications).

• Dry Mouth Syndrome Prevention: If you feel you have dry mouth syndrome , work on creating saliva flow. Poor saliva flow prevents natural fluid from cleansing the teeth. In fact, saliva contains an enzyme that fights off bacteria in your mouth.

• Oral Condition Management: If you are a tooth grinder or clencher, obtain a mouth guard because grinding and clenching pose a risk for periodontal disease. Tend to tooth decay immediately. Do not postpone dental fillings, root canals or other tooth restoration procedures. Managing oral conditions will reduce your risk of periodontal disease.

Treatment

• Root Planing and Scaling: If your gums are not properly adhered to your teeth or your roots have tartar, root planing and scaling is usually performed to deep clean between the gums and teeth, down to the root. Your dentist may also fill your gum pockets with antibiotics to prevent infection.

• Laser Treatment: Some dentists perform laser treatment to seal the exposed pockets between the gums and teeth. This is usually performed following root planing and scaling.

If you have more advanced periodontal disease, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist. Yet, the first step is your primary dentist. So, go for it! Gum disease detection, prevention and treatment do not have to be uncomfortable or problematic. Instead, you can move on to rewards with a healthy mouth that is fresh and clean!

If you think you have signs of periodontal disease, call Dr. Mark Sweeney, an Austin Texas  dentist at (512) 452-9296. Dr. Sweeney is certified in biofilm treatment and offers advanced technology for the early detection/treatment of periodontal disease.

Oral Health Tips for People with Eating Disorders

By AustinDentalSpa on July 11, 2010

Posted in Dentistry FAQ's, Oral Conditions, oral health

Eating disorders are medical conditions that are diagnosed and treated by physicians, psychologists and other medical professionals. However, dentists can also play a role in the diagnosis and treatment of several types of eating disorders. For example, bulimia and anorexia are both characterized by self induced vomiting. Since the substances in the digestive system are highly acidic and can attack the teeth when vomiting, symptoms of eating disorders can become very apparent on your teeth and to your dentist, including:

• Bad breath
• Tooth enamel loss
• Dry mouth syndrome
• Sensitive teeth
• Change in the shape, color and length of the teeth
• Tooth decay, cracks, chips and tooth loss

The good news is that dentists can provide treatment for the oral symptoms associated with eating disorders. There are both restorative and cosmetic dentistry options to explore, including:

• Bad breath can be treated with oral rinses, sprays and gum. As well, there are proactive measures that you can take to reduce your risk of bad breath.
• Dry mouth syndrome may be prevented (link to story). There are also a variety of treatments for dry mouth syndrome.
• Sensitive teeth can be treated with fluoridated toothpastes, mouthwashes, gels or varnishes.
• Tooth enamel loss that weakens the teeth may be reversed with fluoride treatments.
• Tooth decay, root damage and other general dentistry concerns can be treated with dental fillings, root canals and crowns
• Chipped or cracked teeth can be treated with bonding or dental veneers, depending upon the severity of the condition.
• Tooth loss can be treated with dental implants.
• Changes in the anatomy of the teeth can be prevented with mouth guards and improved through dental veneers.

If you think you have an eating disorder, call Dr. Mark Sweeney, an Austin Texas dentist at (512) 452-9296 to schedule an appointment and develop a comprehensive treatment plan.