Childhood Decay on the Increase...Three Keys to Control the Problem

A recent New York Times article "Preschoolers in Surgery for a Mouthful of Cavities" highlighted the growing problem of severe tooth decay among youngsters. Putting off routine exams and unhealthy habits can lead to an expensive solution for mostly preventable problems. There are three keys to keeping a kid's mouth (and grown-ups too!) healthy in a cost effective manner.

1. Early Detection - Modern diagnostic techniques such as high magnification, Diagnodent laser decay detection, or Spectra fluorescence decay detection help the dentist to find decay at its earliest. These systems detect decay long before the old fashioned dental explorer detect the proverbial "stick".
2. Early Intervention - Early decay can be managed a multitude of ways once detected. These techniques include non -invasive approaches such as topical fluoride, topical calcium, sealants, and dietary changes. More advanced caries that need fillings are much easier to provide with a better prognosis the sooner they are detected. We treat most of these in our office using the laser and no needle or drill is required. This approach is much less traumatic for the child.
3. Healthy Habits- Frequent carbohydrate exposure such as juice in sippy cups is a primary culprit in the explosion of childhood decay. Decay bacteria need frequent carbohydrates to create the acid that destroys enamel. A healthy diet and good oral hygiene habits help kids grow and keep strong teeth. It is no accident that the rise in childhood obesity has accompanied this increase in dental problems.

Photos of the new office.....

We've been in the new office for four months now and we love it....for a photo tour click here

Important Warning from the FDA......

Spinbrush Powered Toothbrush by Arm and Hammer or Crest: Safety Communication - Choking Hazard and Serious Injuries

[Posted 02/16/2012]

AUDIENCE: Comsumer, Dentist

ISSUE: FDA notified parents, caregivers, consumers, and dental care professionals about reports of serious injuries and potential hazards associated with the use of all models of the Spinbrush. These reports indicated that while turned on, the brush head has either “popped off” or broken off in the user’s mouth or near the face, causing cuts to the mouth and gums, chipped or broken teeth, swallowing and choking on the broken pieces, and injuries to the face and eyes. When the unexpected release of any part of the powered toothbrush occurs, there is a potential for serious injury. This risk is higher for unattended children or adults who may need assistance while using this device.

BACKGROUND: The Spinbrush line of powered toothbrushes is currently sold as the Arm & Hammer Spinbrush and until 2009 was sold as the Crest Spinbrush. The Spinbrush line is manufactured by Church & Dwight Co., Inc.

RECOMMENDATIONS: FDA recommends that consumers:

• Inspect the Spinbrush for any damage or loose brush bristles prior to using. If you notice any damage or loose brush bristles, DO NOT USE.
• Check to be sure that the headpiece is connected properly to the handle of the brush and test your brush outside of the mouth prior to using. If you notice the connection feels loose or the headpiece easily detaches from the handle, DO NOT USE.
• Supervise children and adults who need assistance when using the Spinbrush.
• Do not bite down on the brush head while brushing.

See the FDA Safety Communication for FDA/manufacturer recommendations and product photos.

Prompt reporting of adverse events can help the FDA identify and better understand the risks associated with medical devices. If you suspect a problem with a Spinbrush, we encourage you to file a voluntary report through FDA's MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program:

• Complete and submit the report Online: www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm
• Download form or call 1-800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178

Beyond Fluoride

Topical fluoride has been a mainstay of preventive dentistry for decades. Modern biomedical research is taking topical decay prevention to the next level. New formulations actually can replace calcium lost in the tooth structure due to early decay.

MI Paste- This paste has "amorphous calcium phosphate" a bioavailable calcium that is absorbed by the tooth like a sponge. It is edible and is a great preventive paste for at risk kids.There is also a form available with fluoride. This paste is also very effective at improving the appearance of irregular enamel. For more information click here.

ClinPro - Tri-calcium Phosphate is combined with prescription strength fluoride in this paste by 3M. It is an excellent choice for people with dry mouth, high decay rate patients, and during orthodontic treatment. For more information click here.

pHlourigel HA Nano - Xylitol is combined with prescription strength fluoride in a pH balanced formula in this product by Oral Bio Tech. The natural sweetener xylitol has been shown to inhibit decay causing bacteria in multiple studies. For more information click here.

Athletic Mouth Guards Protect Teeth and Your Brain Too!

No Mouthpiece Led to Vick's Injury?
Research has shown that a properly fitted athletic mouth guard not only protects your teeth and jaws from injury, but help prevent concussions as well. Many concussions are due to the lower jawbone slamming into the base of the skull during contact. Even the best helmets don't protect from this type of injury. A mouth guard helps cushion these lower jaw blows and help reduce the risk of concussion.

Digital Impressions for comfort and accuracy

We have recently added some really cool technology to the office. The 3M Lava COS digital impression device makes crown and bridge impressions much more comfortable. Instead of gooey impression material this machine takes a digital 3D image of the teeth. These digital impressions are highly accurate and result in better fitting crowns and bridges.

Prevention Tips

Good tips on prevention from WebMD....

15 Ways to Damage Your Teeth