Xylitol! The Secret Is Out

By AustinDentalSpa on November 18, 2011

Posted in oral health

Dentistry has made many advancements. Xylitol has been making headlines in dentistry today for its powerful action to prevent cavities. Xylitol is a sugar substitute that is a five-carbon sugar alcohol traditionally found in some sugarless gums. It is an agent that has been known to reduce levels of the streptococci mutans (MS) bacteria that causes tooth decay. Now, new research results have come out through a clinical trial involving children between the ages of 6 months and 15 months who were given fruit flavored syrup containing xylitol to determine how xylitol can prevent tooth decay and dental cavities. The results of the research were remarkable.

Research results demonstrated that over 75% of the children did not have tooth decay by the end of the study when compared with over 45% of children that did not receive Xylitol. The Marshall Islands in the Pacific was the area where the children in the study were selected from because this area is known to have a very high cavity rate among children.

In 1963, The U.S. Food and Drug Administration deemed Xylitol safe. Today, it is available in sugarless chewing gum, lozenges and syrup. Today, Xylitol has become more widely known for its dental health benefits. Xylitol may an agent that becomes part of every type of candy one day. In the past, gummy bears posed an increased risk for tooth decay because of its sticky sugary substance that adheres to teeth. Now, you can find gummy bears containing Xylitol.  So, check your product labels and look for cavity preventing Xylitol!

If you are interested in dentistry, contact Austin dentist Dr. Mark Sweeney for a consultation at 512-380-1300.

Your Child’s Ammunition against Tooth Decay

By AustinDentalSpa on November 16, 2011

Posted in Oral Conditions

Dental hygiene must begin at home as soon as the first tooth erupts to reduce risks of tooth decay and other long term dental issues. In the beginning, you can wipe your baby’s teeth with a dental cot to remove excess debris and keep your baby’s mouth clean.  Secondly, your child should see a dentist within 6 months after the first tooth erupts or by one year old. There are also several other ways that your child’s teeth can be protected for optimal oral health.

• Fluoride Toothpaste may be purchased over-the-counter at your local pharmacy. It’s also wise to ask your dentist about any additional fluoride that your child might need.
• Water fluoridation may be offered in your local area water supply. Again, your dentist will know if your child will require additional fluoride.
• Your dentist will typically suggest dental sealants at the appropriate age. Dental sealants resemble a clear varnish that can be applied to teeth to protect the teeth from foods that trigger acid. Sealants are particularly beneficial for teeth with deep grooves or crevices that are at greater risk of tooth decay.
• Proper diet filled with lean proteins, fruits, vegetables and water consumption plays a role in your child’s oral health.

Recently, the American Dental Association (ADA) Council on Scientific Affairs published recommendations that sugar-free chewing gum, lozenges and hard candy that contain xylitol may prevent cavities when used in conjunction with traditional approaches for cavity prevention. Use of these treats may be particularly beneficial for people at high risk of cavities.  It has been recommended that children over 5 years of age who have been identified at high risk should chew sugar free gum containing xylitol for up to 20 minutes after meals to prevent tooth decay.

If you are interested in dentistry, contact Austin dentist Dr. Mark Sweeney for a consultation at 512-380-1300.

Foods that Combat Tooth Decay and Ones to Stay Away From

By AustinDentalSpa on November 14, 2011

Posted in Oral Conditions, oral health

Tooth decay has been drastically reduced in recent years. Yet, it’s still important to be mindful that dental plaque is the top culprit that is a leading cause of tooth decay. Dental plaque forms very quickly in your mouth and releases acid that penetrates tooth enamel. When not properly addressed in a timely fashion, dental plaque can form calculus, tartar and tooth decay. This is one reason why it is important to brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes, floss once a day and use mouthwash at bedtime.   In addition, there are some foods that can support your goals to fend off dental plaque.

• Fiber-rich fruits and vegetables offer deep cleaning for your teeth and may remove debris caught between your teeth.
• Cheese, milk, plain yogurt, and other dairy products stimulate saliva flow and help strengthen weakened teeth.
• Tea, both green tea and black tea, help prevent unhealthy bacteria from growing and producing acid that is responsible for tooth decay.
• Licorice has been identified to limit the growth of the bacteria Streptococcus mutans which is a big contributor to dental plaque.

Stay Away Foods

• Candy, especially ones that remain in your mouth a long time, can adhere to your teeth because they are sugary and sticky. When candy remains on your teeth, sugar contents have time to churn out acid that is the cause for tooth decay. If you must have candy, try those that do not remain in the mouth long and brush your teeth afterwards.
• Breads and potato chips, including other complex carbohydrates, trigger bacteria to feed on the carbs. Too, complex carbohydrates are more likely than fruits and vegetables to get caught between your teeth, making those areas prone to cavities. Don’t forget to floss at least once a day to remove debris.
• Carbonated soft drinks and energy drinks contain tooth eroding phosphoric and citric acids that may lead to tooth decay. It’s best to use a straw when drinking these drinks and limit use as much as possible.
• Alcohol and certain medications dry out your mouth which inhibits saliva flow’s special deep cleaning action that would otherwise protect your teeth. If you must take this type of medication, ask your dentist about a prescription fluoride toothpaste, rinse or gel. You may also want to consider dry mouth sprays which are sold over-the-counter at your local pharmacy. Drink plenty of water as well.

If you are interested in dentistry, contact Austin dentist Dr. Mark Sweeney for a consultation at 512-380-1300.

Oral Bacteria and Heart Disease

By AustinDentalSpa on November 12, 2011

Posted in Oral Conditions, oral health

Oral health is a top priority for many Americans today. Oral bacteria is linked to heart disease and researchers have discovered more about this link recently. In the June issue of Infection and Immunity, a report published by microbiologists at the University of Rochester Medical Center demonstrated the means in which bacteria known as Streptococcus mutans is used to spread to the heart, causing a sometimes deadly infection called endocarditis. It is a protein that has been surmised to be responsible transporting Streptococcus mutans to the heart. Endocarditis is characterized by inflammation of heart valves, typically due to Streptococcus mutans infection.

The Streptococcus mutans bacterium has long been known to cause cavities.  It is this bacterium, found in dental plaque, which produces the acid that penetrates tooth enamel and creates tooth decay.  In many cases, the bacterium enters the bloodstream where it is typically abolished by the immune system. In other cases, the immune system does not destroy the bacterium and it colonizes in the heart’s tissue and valves causing endocarditis.  The results of this study offers hope for the development of a screening process that may one day be developed to identify people at risk of developing endocarditis.

For now, we know that the best way to reduce the risk of endocarditis is through proper oral hygiene. This includes brushing for two minutes in a small circular motion and along the gum line twice a day, flossing once a day, using a mouthwash at bedtime, as well as, limiting and using a straw for soft drinks. People prone to excessive plaque build-up may require additional professional dental cleanings throughout the year. People with gingivitis or gum disease may require root planing and scaling, as well as, bio film treatments available at Dr. Mark Sweeney’s office. Bio film treatment is focused on maintaining a healthy balance of good and bad bacteria in the oral cavity to prevent the progression of gum disease.  There are more advanced therapies available   for moderate to late stage gum disease.

If you are interested in dentistry, contact Austin dentist Dr. Mark Sweeney for a consultation at 512-380-1300.

What to Look for in Your Cosmetic Dentistry Experience

By AustinDentalSpa on November 10, 2011

Posted in cosmetic dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry is an inviting idea. Composite dental fillings offer tooth colored dental fillings that eliminate the appearance of silver from your mouth. Tooth whitening offers a bright white smile for all times of year. Dental veneers create a well aligned, bright smile for all to see.  Dental implants are a worthwhile alternative when compared to dentures and dental bridges. Even the advanced esthetics used in restorative dental procedures has made dentistry appealing to many today. Yet, how do you know what to look for in your dental treatment? Let’s explore some of the factors that make an ideal dental experience.

Trust and Security

Dentists must participate in continuing education courses if they are interested in keeping up-to-date with leading edge techniques and technology in dentistry. This is because there have been a great number of advancements over the past decade that offer advantages in cosmetic dentistry treatment.  Whether it’s better materials that provide greater aesthetic appeal and durability or advanced early detection tools that prevent more invasive treatment, there are many ways that you can benefit from advancements in cosmetic dentistry treatments.

Experience

While there are now over 10,000 dentists that are members of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, there are only a select number of cosmetic dentists with extensive experience in cosmetic dentistry. Cosmetic dentistry requires both artistic and technical expertise that requires time to acquire.

Comfort

Comfort offers the opportunity for you to feel good about your dental treatment. Whether it’s the ambiance of the dental practice or the offering of sedation dentistry so you can relax through treatment, comfort plays a role in the outcome of your dental experience.

Austin Dental Spa typically exceeds expectations for an ideal dental experience.  For trust and security, experience and comfort, we invite you to contact us today at 512-380-1300!

Cosmetic Dentistry for Worn and Uneven Teeth

By AustinDentalSpa on November 7, 2011

Posted in cosmetic dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry can be a refreshing change, particularly when it involves replacing worn uneven teeth with a beautifully well aligned smile. Both women and men seek out cosmetic dentistry for these reasons because of the effects on their social and professional life.  Whether you go to the supermarket or a restaurant, you’ll likely see many people that have a beautifully well aligned smile.  You may notice the enthusiasm they transfer to you with a zest for a fulfilling, healthy lifestyle. After all, cosmetic dentistry has been known to boost confidence, self-image and self-esteem!

For people interested in repairing worn teeth through cosmetic dentistry, there are considerations. First, the reason for the wear and tear on teeth must be identified and the outcome expected from treating this issue must be evaluated to see if the person can qualify for cosmetic dentistry treatment. The treatment plan is individualized for each patient. In some cases, a night guard can adequately protect the teeth from harm. In other cases, new teeth may offer an adequate solution to relax the chewing muscles which would stop the teeth from grinding against each other. You’ll also want to be certain you select a dentist who has extensive experience with cosmetic dentistry because you’ll want to use similar materials and have the same outcome in your follow up procedure as you did in your initial procedure. In this way, your results are comparable, offering seamless beauty.

If you are interested in dentistry, contact Austin dentist Dr. Mark Sweeney for a consultation at 512-380-1300.

Taking Fear Out of Cosmetic Dentistry Sights, Sounds and Smells

By AustinDentalSpa on November 7, 2011

Posted in cosmetic dentistry, sedation dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry probably conjures up images of the refined new you ready for any new social or professional activities with a greater vibrancy for life. Whether it is tooth whitening, dental veneers, or dental implants, you’ve probably been intrigued by the outcome that people who have had such procedures. When you are at the shopping mall, you’re likely to see cashiers who have had tooth whitening. When you are at a business meeting or dinner party, you’ve probably seen someone who has had dental veneers or dental implants. After all, cosmetic dentistry is commonplace today. Yet, you still may refrain. Something is holding you back. You know it’s not finances. You know it’s not that there isn’t enough time to take out for one or two dental visits to enhance your life.  On the other hand, you think it may be that you are afraid of cosmetic dentistry sights, sounds and smells.

If so, it’s no surprise. It’s common for people to have fear about dentistry sights, sounds and smells.  In fact, sometimes this fear may bring about feelings of anxiety and panic.  However, there is no need to worry at Austin Dental Spa.  We’ve got you covered. Instead of the sterile smell like might make you wince when you come to our office, we use aromatherapy to counteract medical scents. In addition, you need not be concerned about smelly materials in your mouth because we can protect your sensory triggers from going into this mode with sedation dentistry tools available in our practice.

In terms of sights, seek out spa like practices. Ask yourself, “Would you feel more comfortable going into an office that looks like a resort, living room, or one that looks like a medical office?” Spa like practices tend to offer the best in ambiance which omits the risk that an unpleasant sight will trigger fearful emotions. You can usually get an idea of what the practice focus is by viewing their website.  Better yet, go in for a consultation!

Finally, sounds. Offered at the right dental practices, you’ll find calming pleasant music, television and even maybe your favorite movies to distract you from bothersome sounds. In fact, the instruments used in dentistry today have been improved so quieter instruments may be available at a dentist’s modernized office.

There may be other sights, sounds and smells that are troublesome for you. Yet, there’s no need to delay your dental care.   With the right dental practice, you can feel great while receiving your dental care and soon you’ll feel enhanced with your results from cosmetic dentistry.

If you are interested in a consultation, contact Austin dentist Dr. Mark Sweeney at 512-380-1300.

Our Dental Veneer Advantage

By AustinDentalSpa on November 6, 2011

Posted in cosmetic dentistry

Dental veneers are offered by many cosmetic dentists across the U.S. Yet, there are a select number of cosmetic dentists across the U.S. that fabricate their own veneers for a much smoother transition into your new beautiful well aligned smile.  To have a dentist who fabricates their own veneers is a superior way to go. At Austin Dental Spa, Dr. Mark Sweeney goes out of his way to not only see all of his patients interested in veneers, but also fabricates veneers. In this way, he can take the firsthand knowledge he acquired during the dental visit and apply his superior skills to fabricate beautiful dental veneers for his patients.

To be a candidate for veneers, your teeth must be evaluated. In addition, information derived from this evaluation must be applied to the design of the veneers. After all, everyone’s current and desired tooth shape and color varies. So, accurate detailed information is critical. Since veneers fabrication requires artistic talent, a scientific background and technical skill, you can be assured that Dr. Mark Sweeney has extensively participated in continuing education courses to be kept up-to-date with the latest advancements in dental veneers.  A dentist who has the benefit of seeing the patient and being able to fabricate their won veneers clearly offers advantages.  Dr. Mark Sweeney exceeds expectations in this area, working well independently to screen people for candidacy of veneers and to fabricate veneers.

Your smile is your first impression. So, you want to take the time to investigate everything you need to know about veneers. In this way, you’ll be able to make a well-educated decision. Dr. Mark Sweeney  offers a state of the art facility to provide you with all of the information you need to make a well informed decision. He is available for consultation to answer any questions you may have about dental veneers.

If you are interested in a consultation, contact Austin dentist Dr. Mark Sweeney at 512-380-1300

Got Pain With Your Wisdom Teeth? Get a Cure

By AustinDentalSpa on November 4, 2011

Posted in Dentistry FAQ's, General Dentistry

Wisdom teeth that are impacted, meaning that they do not erupt, can be discomforting over time. Many people with impacted wisdom teeth find themselves at their dentist’s office by mid-twenties with complaints of pain and discomfort. In addition, impacted wisdom teeth can crowd surrounding teeth, offsetting your bite. Finally, it is not too uncommon for wisdom teeth to become infected over time.  In fact, infections can become serious so it’s important to address wisdom tooth pain right away. It is for all of these reasons why you may experience discomfort with your wisdom teeth.

Wisdom tooth removal is often the call to action. The procedure on impacted teeth is usually performed before the bone fully matures.  The beauty in today’s solution for wisdom tooth removal is that there have been advancements made in anesthetics so they people won’t feel or recollect the surgery. Typically performed under IV sedation with the use of a local anesthesia in the treatment area, wisdom tooth removal may be a minimal type of surgery or more extensive depending upon several factors.  The position of the tooth plays a role in the extent of surgery. The maturity of the root is a factor in surgery. The person’ age is another factor in the decision for the approach to surgery. For more minor surgery, local anesthesia may be suffice.  Following the procedure, patients return home with anti-pain medication to stay ahead of discomfort.

If you are interested in a consultation, contact Austin dentist Dr. Mark Sweeney at 512-380-1300

Why One Visit to Your Austin Dentist Seems to Turn Into Two

By AustinDentalSpa on October 31, 2011

Posted in Dentistry FAQ's

Your Austin dentist may always seem to need to see you for more than one visit for a variety of reasons. You may think you’ve followed all of the proper oral hygiene recommendations from your dentist so why bother? You may feel that you have maintained a proper diet to support your oral health. You may feel that your breath is fresh and your oral cavity is free from cavity causing debris. Yet, sometimes you may not seem to be able to get away from a second dental visit after you visit your dentist for a preventive dental visit. The oral cavity can be tricky to manage at best.   Though you may receive lessons about proper tooth brushing and dental flossing during your first dental visit, you may notice that you receive repeat lessons over the years for reinforcement.  Just like your body, the oral cavity must thrive through many changes each day and each year. So, your dentist will highlight specific areas that need extra care and methods for focusing on those areas.

Sometimes, your dentist may request you come back for an additional visit in three months instead of six. Sometimes, your dentist may request you return to the office for deeper cleaning through root planing and scaling. Sometimes, your dentist may request you return to the office for restorative dental work, such as, dental fillings, root canals and dental crowns. Let’s explore the details…

• When it comes to having extra professional cleanings throughout the year, this request may occur if you have excess or speedier plaque build-up. Excess or speedier plaque build-up may be caused by failure to brush and floss properly, dry mouth syndrome, certain medications or medical conditions.
• Root planing and scaling is popular because 75% of the population has the precursor to gum disease or gum disease itself. Root planing and scaling helps to control the progression of the disease. This is very important because there is no cure.
• The need for dental fillings is usually identified in the first visit. So, there is not enough time for dental fillings. To perform a root canal, typically antibiotics must be taken over the course of days before root canal treatment.  Dental crowns require the fabrication of the crown after an impression is made of the treatment area.

There may be one or more reasons why you need additional dental visits.  The important point is that regular preventive visits reduce the risk of follow up visits.

If you are interested in a consultation, contact Austin dentist Dr. Mark Sweeney at 512-380-1300.