Dry Mouth May Be Your Medications, Not Dehydration

In our August Newsletter we discussed the importance “dry mouth” and indicators that could impact your dental and oral hygiene. Of course many of us experience “cotton mouth” and dehydration during summer months. Obviously the dry heat and hot temperatures imposed by desert living can exacerbate the condition.

Nevertheless, what many patients do not realize, particularly if they do not read the fine print of prescribed medications, is that the very pharmaceuticals they ingest may be the cause “dry mouth” and have negative consequences on their oral diagnosis and dental visits.

According to a Drug Topics article in Modern Medicine Network this condition is raising awareness among dentists, and now “pharmacy and dental organizations are uniting to promote oral health and raise public awareness of dry mouth, a side effect commonly caused by taking prescription and over-the-counter medications.”

There are multiple issues that can occur, such as:

• Decrease in saliva production, which is necessary to breaking down food, washing away excess particles in the mouth and maintaining proper oral health.
• Patients who lack proper saliva production are at risk for developing xerostomia
• Dry mouth contributes to cavities that are formed along the gum line
• Over time, xerostomia can cause bad breath, erosion of enamel, decay and gingivitis.

The article released on August, 22, 2011 reveals an alliance between several associations to heighten professional and public awareness of this condition and the associated oral risks, which include

• The American Pharmacists Association (APhA)

• American Dental Association (ADA)

• Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)

• American Academy of Periodontology (AAP)

They are all collaborating to expand awareness of the impact of medications on dry mouth, a condition known to health professionals as xerostomia.

They proclaimed more than 500 medications can contribute to oral dryness and stated that nearly 50% of all Americans regularly take at least one prescription medication which produces “dry mouth” daily. In addition, more than 90% of these patients are adults over age 65.

Saliva is essential for maintaining oral health and studies show that “at least 25 million Americans have inadequate salivary flow or composition and lack the cleansing and protective functions saliva provides.”

The aligning dental and pharmacy organizations suggest that patients who experience dry mouth schedule dental exams to be evaluated and treated. They are also advised to alert their dentists of up-to-date prescribed medications with each visit to ensure proper care is provided to prevent dental damage and oral health risks.

Healthier Diets = Healthier Teeth and Smiles!

Even though our public schools and many private schools have made extra efforts to incorporate healthier snacks and beverages into their vending machines, it is still our responsibility, as parents, to ensure our kids and young adults maintain healthy eating habits. This not only benefits their health, but it benefits our wallets and purses when we take them to the dentist.

In our last post, we pointed out the “Modern Warfare” that takes place in our mouths, daily. Plaque is a big factor, but we also have to worry about the dreaded “acid attacks” caused by food and beverages that contain a lot of sugar and high-fructose corn syrup. When these two worlds collide, and when plaque caused from bacteria meets the sugary content from foods, acid forms and attacks the teeth for 20 minutes or more, after it forms.

Over time, this process takes a toll on teeth and forms decay. Decay is the number one reason for most dental issues in young children, which is due to poor eating habits and bad dental hygiene. It starts when we are young and will continue until we change these habits. The natural wear on our teeth is hard enough to ward off with brushing and flossing, but bad diet is a big contributing factor for children and young adults ages 4-18.

So many of the things we eat and drink contain high levels of sugar, like: candy, desserts, cookies, energy drinks, sodas and soft-drinks, and even some items that are considered healthier, such as: juice and yogurt.

Unfortunately, many of the yummy snacks and drinks that our kids love to eat can cause early tooth decay.

As parents, we too may not have the healthiest eating habits. Sometimes, we may purchase grocery items that are not so good for us. Most kitchen cabinets, pantries and refrigerators are stocked with more sugary foods than necessary. When they are readily available, no doubt, they will be consumed by hungry people in a hurry. I

n addition, we may not have the time to prepare balanced meals, so our families may substitute with fast food and snacks that are less nutritious. And let’s face it, life is busy. We cannot always be there to monitor what our kids are eating and if they are brushing and flossing as often as they should.

Here is a great program for you to review featuring Arizona nutrition standards and guidelines, so you know what is being instituted to help schools and families: http://www.healthologyaz.com/health-components/nutrition-services.

The best way to help your kids understand the value of their health is to get them engaged. Here is another great get your children involved in understanding the importance of proper diet and choosing healthier foods http://www.choosemyplate.gov. This will be good for you, them, and your pocket-book in the future when you visit the dentist.

Here is a short list to post in a visible place to remind them daily:

TIPS FOR A HEALTHY SMILE – HEALTHY DIET + BRUSHING = HEALTHY TEETH!

* Brush twice a day – in the morning and at night. Your teeth will love you!
* Use fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss once a day to help your gums.
* Use mouth-guards when playing sports and rough activities.
* Drink more water and 2% milk and eat healthy snacks, like fruits, veggies and whole grain foods.

Your Mouth is a Battlefield … Fight It!

When keeping oral hygiene in mind, it helps to think of your mouth as a battlefield, as a reminder to take care of your oral health.

Modern Warfare is a dangerous game that takes place in your mouth every day. It is your “Call of Duty” to fight off the harmful bacteria and sticky plaque that attack your teeth and gums, day-in and day-out.

Simply stated, plaque is the enemy. It is a viscous threat to your tooth enamel and gums. If plaque builds up, and gets through the front line, it wears down the enamel and causes inflammation and infection of the gums. Think of yourself as the defender, and you have the armor. The only way to win the war is by brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist.

If you do not act as the protagonist on behalf of your oral health, there are serious consequences.

There is a growing body of research in the medical journals that reveal a true antagonist to your health – plaque, which can lead to major health issues.

Plaque and poor oral hygiene are the roots of many evils to your body. Studies and research find that bacteria and inflammation in your mouth can be associated with other problems, including:

• Periodontal disease
• Heart attack
• Diabetes
• Dementia
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Premature birth

Plaque constantly forms on your teeth, gum-line and dental work. Food and beverages containing a lot of starch and sugars release acids that attack enamel and gum tissue. Over time, without proper care, brushing and flossing, plaque causes decay and gets into the bloodstream of the body, causing greater harm to organs and your health.

Look for the beginning signs, like bad breath, gingivitis, tooth sensitivity, cavities, inflammation, and tender and swollen gums that bleed.

Inflammation is also a common denominator. If it exists in your mouth and around your gums, then it is more than likely leading to inflammation in other areas.

You are the first responder to your own health. It is important to fight the battle with good hygiene, brushing and flossing. Your dentist can only respond if you take the time to visit every six months for routine examinations.

American Dental Plan is here to help you fight that war, and make dental care more affordable, because we care about you and your health.

Summertime Advice: Water is the Best Source of Hydration for Dental Health

You know the song that was written for the graduating class of 1999 called “Everybody's Free (To Wear Sunscreen)” by Baz Luhrmann. It became so popular because it is true. Especially in Arizona, wearing sunscreen should be a part of our daily regime. Even more important, as the sun becomes more intense and the temperature rises, is hydration. I am trying to come up with the lyrics for a song right now, “H20 Hydrate: Drink More Water.”

This is particularly relevant when you understand the correlations between hydration and health, including oral health.

Sports and mind-blowing energy drinks, in addition to frothy, frozen coffee drinks with whipped cream and toppings have become a line-forming trend with youth and adults. Seriously, we should all have stock in the companies that keep us fueled and energized. I too enjoy an occasional sports beverage, soda or caffeinated beverage, but I limit my intake, because they can be very high in sugar, and they tend to be bad influences on teeth and gums. This has become increasingly evident to dentist and hygienists, and I hear about the negative consequences of these tasty beverages.

“According to a study from the University of Iowa, sports drinks can be more corrosive to teeth than colas and energy drinks. Researchers found that the high sugar content and acids in sports drinks can damage tooth enamel and the roots of teeth. With weakened enamel, the teeth are more susceptible to bacteria that can sneak into the cracks and crevices in the teeth. Sugar can intensify the situation and encourage the bacterial growth.”

True, we all need to stay hydrated during summer months, and sports events. Hydration prevents dry-mouth and promotes saliva production, which protects the teeth by neutralizing and rinsing away acids and debris. But sports drinks and sugary beverages should be minimized. The best way to quench your thirst and hydrate in the summer and during athletic events is to drink water, the good old-fashioned beverage from mother earth.

Dentists already have their work cut out for them trying to promote best practices to children, teens and adults when it comes to managing our mouths. Mass consumption of readily available convenience stores, soft drinks, junk foods and trendy beverages make their job more difficult and put your dental health at risk.
The best defense for dehydration during summer and during play is hydration, which is healthy for every part of your body.

You can educate and send a healthier message to your kids and teens by reminding them to replace sports drinks, soft drinks and energy drinks with more water. Communicate, write notes and send texts to remind them to stay healthy and drink H20. Of course they can still drink those beverages, but just cut down on them – and look at them as a reward.

Try it, your dentist and pocket book will smile, I assure you.
When I make a hit song, I will post it to my blog and let you know. But for now, the message is yours to share. H2O is the way to go!

The Discount Dental Deal that Keeps Giving, Year-Round

A new online marketing trend has gained popularity in the last year, featuring daily coupon deals for those who sign up to purchase 24 hour vouchers. Providers like www.Groupon.com and www.livingsocial.com present daily discount coupons from businesses looking to gain new customers with awesome voucher specials, and limited-time-offers. This is a great way to save a few dollars, but buyers should consider a few things before switching loyalties when it comes to certain services.

These programs are great if you want to try out a new restaurant, yoga class, spa or local store, but here is some advice if you are thinking of taking advantage of discount dental exams, cleanings, whitening treatments or other services:

1. Dental providers are like healthcare providers, once you make an appointment to visit a new dentist, he or she will more than likely do an initial exam and take x-rays to build a profile for your dental records.

2. Unless you are re-locating, you want a second-opinion or you do not want to continue to see your current dentist, going to another dental provider may not be in your best interest, especially if there are differences in professional experience and treatment plans.

3. It is wise to build good rapport with your healthcare providers, so that you can follow a recommended treatment plan for the healthiest outcomes, long-term.

4. Your relationship with your overall health takes commitment, which requires committed relationships with your providers.

The nice thing about American Dental Plan is that the same great savings exist every day of the year. Members pay one annual fee for individual or family plans and receive receive one exam per membership year and four x-rays at no charge. In addition, they save up to 40% on all services, such as: cleanings, fillings, extractions, root canals, crowns and dentures, and orthodontics!

Check out our schedule of dentist in AZ: Phoenix Metro and Tucson, Rural Areas, Orthodontics).

And finally, American Dental Plan offers a $5 coupon voucher to any member who refers a friend, family member or co-worker. Share the news of our great benefits and receive a voucher for five bucks off your annual renewal!

Everybody loves a great deal and you should too. So, take advantage of the Groupons and coupons, but just make sure you use your best judgment before putting your health in new hands.

Are There Different Types of Teeth Cleaning? Yes … and the Type of Dental Cleaning Depends on You.

“Why can't I just get my teeth cleaned?” Many people have asked this question, not realizing the complexities of various types of dental cleanings. When you present yourself at the dental office, the dentist, or hygienist, must first determine the amount of calculus and/or tartar that is present in the mouth. Based on this information, along with possibly performing a periodontal probe on each tooth, the correct type of cleaning can be diagnosed and performed.

The reason there are different types of teeth cleaning is because there are different types of people and different reasons why people may need more invasive cleanings.

Obviously, we are all unique, and our dental needs will depend on many factors. Aside from genetics, environment, tooth and bone structure and other physical reasons, the main reason there are different types of teeth cleaning really depends on us, for the most part.

In the world of dentistry, there seem to be three types of patients:
1. Those who are fanatics about brushing, flossing, getting cleanings, check-ups and having good hygiene and a great smile. This type schedules appointments for the year, and often purchases additional products like fluoride rinses and whiteners to ensure their pearly whites look fabulous.
2. Those who have a healthy, but intermittent routine of brushing, flossing, getting their cleanings and visiting the dentist. This type of person may wait an extra couple of months between appointments or only see the dentist once a year, instead of two.
3. Those who do not take their oral hygiene seriously at all. In fact, they ignore the importance of their teeth and gums, and forget that their mouth and teeth are the gateway to their health and body. These folks rarely brush or floss and they may only see the dentist in case of an emergency.

So, when you visit the dentist and/or hygienist, the type of teeth cleaning they recommend may depend on what type of patient you are and how you care for your teeth between visits.

Here is a list of the types or cleanings:

Superficial Cleaning and Polish:
This is the most common type of cleaning. It is a routine cleaning, which is necessary to remove surface stains and other debris only on tooth surface above the gum line. This type of cleaning is performed with an ultrasonic instrument or prophy jet.

Bi-Annual Normal Routine Cleaning:
This is necessary for regular dental maintenance, usually at six month intervals (sometimes three depending on whether you build tarter and plaque along the gum line quicker than others). This type of cleaning is performed using an ultrasonic scaler and hand instruments on the entire tooth above the gum line and below to remove any tartar, plaque and mineral deposits. This type of cleaning is combined with superficial cleaning and polish of the tooth surface with a prophy jet.

Extensive "Debridement" Cleaning:
Again this type of cleaning is usually only necessary when an individual has not had his/her teeth cleaned in more than a year, or if there is heavy calculus/mineral deposits under the gum line fused to the tooth and roots. This type of cleaning is may require a longer appointment or two visits and is performed using an ultrasonic scaler and hand instruments followed by superficial cleaning and polish.

Deep Scaling and Root Planing:
This type of cleaning is more invasive and may be more painful. It is necessary in moderate or advanced stages of gum disease when bone loss and pocketing occur and when mineral deposits have fused deeper down the root surface. This procedure may require a form of anesthesia for patient comfort and is performed in quadrants and will require one-quarter of the mouth to be done at a time. Followed by a normal cleaning and evaluation appointment 2-4 weeks after treatment, these periodontal maintenance visits will need to take place in three month intervals until normal tissue health is achieved.

Advanced Periodontal (Gum) Disease Requires a Specialist, a periodontist: Routine Periodontal Cleaning:
This type of cleaning is necessary for regular dental maintenance, usually in three to six month intervals, following a diagnosis of periodontal disease, where bone loss and gum tissue damage are extensive due to lack of care or other reasons. A periodontist will perform scale root planing to avoid tooth loss. This treatment is also necessary if the patient accumulates plaque and calculus far in excess of normal levels which must be removed for adequate oral health.

So there you have it, the gamut of teeth cleaning possibilities. This is just a friendly reminder that taking care of your teeth in gums should a healthy part of your daily routine. In addition, regular dental visits and check-ups are also very important to avoid the more invasive, painful appointments.

Once your teeth have been cleaned and returned to a "normal" state of hygiene, only then can the dentist perform a simple prophy cleaning.

Who’s Afraid of the Big Bad Dentist … Got Dental Fears? Don’t Let Them Keep You Or Your Children From the Dentist!

Do you have fear of going to the dentist? It may rub off and impact how your kids feel about the dentist, too. Many adults and children despise the dental chair and have severe anxiety when faced with dental visits. Research suggests that this fear may be passed down from elders or adults who express fear of dentists and perhaps other emotional anxieties.

The recent research carried out at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden found that children with oral care management issues not only suffered more frequently from dental fears which correlated to parents with a similar approach to dental care. Many of the youngsters typically lived in financially struggling families.

The American Dental Association suggests that parents teach their children the importance of daily oral health care at early ages, including the need for bi- annual cleanings and dental checkups. Anyone who avoids the dentist may develop cavities, tooth decay and gum disease, which will only get worse and cause more dental issues, if not treated by a dentist.

In addition, the article suggested, “parents who are averse to the dentist's office may need to be better aware of how their own dental fears can negatively impact the long-term oral health of their children.”

Similarly, another story reveals how many kids fear going to the dentist, especially if they have a cavity, because of the intimidating sound of the drill. This can be a problem if the anxiety keeps a child in need of treatment from the dentist’s chair. Cavities do not heal, they just get worse, so to get to the root of the problem, before the decay leads to a root canal, the fears need to be eradicated, early on.

One way to help kids overcome the fear and eliminate aversions is to have them listen to music on their iPod or MP3 or you can download story on a mobile music device to cancel out the noise. In addition, “British researchers have just finished development of a device that eliminates the drill’s irritating sound. Plugged in like headphones into a MP3 player, the gadget produces inverted waves to target, then cancel out the unwanted sounds. If the drill sound’s frequency and amplitude change, the device removes it using adaptive filtering.”

According to the American Dental Association, children lost over 51 million hours of school due to dental illnesses in 2009. Routine dentist visits are essential for oral health and to avoid bigger issues and bills and more absences. Dentists monitor the development and growth of young teeth, create treatment plans, and diagnose and treat gum disease and cavities.