Poor oral function and inferior self-esteem are just a couple of the many difficulties associated with tooth loss. Complete or partial dentures, often the solution to the problem of tooth loss, may not restore oral function completely because of poor fit due to jaw bone deterioration. Bridges, often the solution to single tooth loss, have their drawbacks too, because placing a bridge requires the teeth surrounding the missing tooth to be ground down and compromised.

To improve the aesthetics and function of tooth replacement, dental implants were developed and have gained popularity in recent years. Dental implants are titanium “screws” which are placed in the jawbone replacing the root of the lost tooth. Dental implants provide an alternative to standard removable complete and partial dentures and bridges while improving chewing function almost completely.

The Problem

In order to be a candidate for the dental implant placement procedure, a patient must have sufficient bone height and width to support the titanium post or artificial tooth root. Unfortunately, if a patient has been without a tooth or teeth for a prolonged period of time, the bone that once supported the teeth becomes weakened and deteriorates, resulting in a lack of bone height to sustain a dental implant. This is especially true when tooth loss occurs in the maxillary (upper) jaw bone. Because the maxilla rests against the sinus, when bone loss occurs, the sinus expands to fill the space once occupied by jaw bone.

The Solution

To solve this issue, sinus augmentation (lift) procedures have been developed allowing bone in the upper jaw to be regenerated providing ample space to place a dental implant. The sinus lift procedure, invented in the mid 1970′s has been refined and is now frequently successfully performed. Different versions of the sinus lift procedure have evolved over time, each successful in different cases.

Successful, predictable dental implant placement in the posterior maxilla typically requires a minimum of 10mm of vertical bone height. Moreover, bone density in the posterior maxilla is often poor, which could lead to complications during implant fixation. To address these problems, maxillary sinus elevation surgery was developed to increase the amount of bone available for implant placement and has proven successful and become popular, allowing patients with insufficient bone to undergo dental implant surgery. The type of sinus augmentation that a surgeon chooses to use on a given patient depends on the surgeon’s preference as well as patient anatomy.

Types of Sinus Augmentation (Lift) Procedures:

The Lateral Window Technique (LWT)

Implant placement can be performed simultaneously with the sinus elevation procedure or following a healing period that can last 6-9 months. Immediate placement during sinus elevation reduces overall healing time and eliminates another surgical procedure, which can be desirable to patients. The decision to place an implant during sinus augmentation is dependent on the presence of adequate bone volume and quality to provide for initial stability of the implant. Rosen and colleagues (1999) recommended at least 5mm of native bone for immediate implant placement during sinus augmentation. However, more recent studies have found that implant stability can be achieved with less than 5mm (Peleg 2006).

Lateral Window Sinus Augmentation: The lateral approach involves a modified Caldwell-Luc operation to gain access to the sinus cavity. A bony window is created in the lateral maxillary wall, the Schneiderian membrane is elevated, and bone grafting material is a combination of autogenous bone and allograft. An absorbable collagen membrane is placed between the bone graft and the membrane as well as over the bony window.

This technique is usually the preferred method of sinus elevation in situations of poor bone quality and minimal residual bone height because it allows for direct visualization and accurate bone placement and volume at the position of the implant. Also, tearing of the membrane can be easily treated, minimizing contamination of the graft during healing.

The Crestal Core Elevation (CCE)

The Crestal Core or Crestal Window Elevation technique is an alternative to the traditional Lateral Window technique typically used in Sinus Elevation surgeries. While usually successful, the Lateral Window technique may cause patients to withstand post-operative pain, bruising and swelling. This limitation of the Lateral Window technique may be due to the “blind” nature of the procedure and the lack of visibility when the clinician is manipulating the Schneiderian Membrane and opening the sinus floor. To combat the associated post-op complications, the Crestal Core technique was developed.

The Crestal Core technique for sinus augmentation is reportedly less invasive than the lateral window technique. In an August 2010 study posted in the Journal of American Periodontology, 45 patients who had undergone the CCT were retrospectively evaluated over a 1-11 year period of time. The Crestal Core technique was successful in 31 of 45 sites (68.9%) and partially successful in 6 sites (13.3%). Surgical failures were reportedly due to core detachment which resulted in large tears of the sinus membrane. Implants placed in successful sites presented 100% survival rate during the duration of the study.

The conclusion was made that the Crestal Core Technique, when implemented simultaneously with molar extraction provided therapeutic benefits to the patient post-operatively. The subsequent dental implant placements using CCE showed a fantastic survival rate as well in the evaluated population.

The Crestal Window approach to sinus augmentation is simple, predictable technique which results in very low patient morbidity. It is, therefore, a suitable alternative to traditional sinus augmentation, giving clinicians a choice of techniques when approaching cases of varying degrees of difficulty and complication. The Crestal Core Technique may be the best option for elevating the sinus for many patients.

The Osteotome Technique (Summers Technique)

One of the more conservative methods of sinus elevation is the Osteotome or Summers Technique. This technique involves sinus elevation immediately followed by dental implant placement. During the osteotome technique, a tiny hole is made in the jaw bone and bone grafting material is inserted into the area between the sinus floor and the bone, increasing the distance between the sinus and the jaw. This technique allows for immediate implant placement and allows for shorter post-treatment waiting times. The Osteotome technique is considered one of the least invasive of the sinus augmentation techniques.

Balloon Sinus Elevation

The minimally invasive Zimmer Sinus Lift Balloon allows for improved vertical sinus elevation results and gives clinicians added security when performing a traditional lateral wall sinus lift procedure — protecting the Schneiderian membrane from tearing, which can significantly disrupt an implant case. The balloon instrument is also well-suited for effectively measuring the required bone grafting material. For example, 1cc of saline, which is used to inflate the balloon, is equal to 1cc of grafting material.

The Zimmer Sinus Lift Balloon is available in three convenient, single-use configurations for optimum efficiency and ease-of-use. The angled design is ideal for lateral window procedures, the straight model is well suited for a crestal approach, and the popular micro-mini design can be used for either of these indications.

Conclusion

Numerous studies have shown that dental implant survival rate is higher in patients whose dental implants were placed in grafted sinuses than the dental implants placed without sinus lifts. The sinus augmentation procedure provides a way to increase the amount and quality of available bone and allows for the placement of longer implants, leading to increased stability. Many different techniques exist for effective bone augmentation below the sinus, a few of which were discussed earlier in this report. Which approach is used is largely dependent on the extent of the patient’s bone loss and the specific procedure that is slated to be performed for the dental implant and final restoration. Given the many options available for sinus augmentation, it stands to reason that only a highly trained dental specialist can decide which procedure is the most suitable option for proper, successful treatment.

If you enjoyed this article on maxillary sinus augmentations, there is a good chance you will like these articles from my blog as well:

• “What Are Dental Implants“
• “Dental Implants Information“
• “Answers To Common Questions About Dental Implants“
• “Dental Implant Time Lapse Video“
• “Dental Implant Success Rates”
• “Metal Free Ceramic Dental Implants“

Thanks for Reading !!

Even though toothpaste (in some form or another) has been around as long as the Ancient Greeks have, the formula (as we know it) did not become popular until World War I. As soon as companies began manufacturing toothpaste, people began to purchase the magical concoction – guaranteed to produce glistening teeth! White teeth were all the rage after World War I had ended, and toothpaste quickly became a product that most people simply couldn’t live without.

Toothpaste is one item that nearly everyone uses today, but what makes this concoction so special? Whether you brush your teeth once per day or three times per day, chances are that you’ve never taken the time to read that ingredient list. Some believe that the ingredients contained in a standard package of toothpaste are essential – others believe that water may be just as effective. In the end, there’s a good reason why most toothpaste packages warn: “Do Not Ingest!”

10. Formaldehyde

That same ingredient that coroners can’t live without can be found inside of your toothpaste tube. Formaldehyde kills all of those small bacteria that climb onto your teeth after eating or sleeping. If a large amount of formaldehyde is accidentally ingested, the result could be fatal. Severe formaldehyde ingestion results in jaundice, kidney damage, liver damage, and death.

9. Detergent

Foam, suds, activation! What would toothpaste be without that satisfying soapy feeling? Manufacturers use regular detergent in order to appease the masses that prefer bubbly toothpaste. While bubbles may be fun, be careful if you accidentally ingest a large amount of this stuff – swallowing detergent can cause digestive tract burning.

8. Seaweed

Stretchy and slimy, seaweed holds that paste together. Without this green stuff, toothpaste would simply fall apart! The good news is that seaweed isn’t toxic. In fact, seaweed has a number of nutritional benefits, though hitting the sushi bar is a better way of gaining those benefits.

7. Peppermint Oil

Minty, minty, minty! Fresh breath can only be kept fresh with the help of peppermint oil! While refreshing when brushing your teeth, peppermint oil can cause a slow pulse, heartburn, and muscle tremors if it is consumed.

6. Paraffin

As slick as the petroleum that it is derived from, paraffin creates a smooth paste that oozes onto your toothbrush. As you might imagine, paraffin wasn’t meant to be eaten. If you happen to swallow this ingredient, you may end up with abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and severe constipation.

5. Glycerine Glycol

Never heard of this ingredient before? Sure about that? Glycerin glycol is added to toothpaste in order to prevent the paste from becoming too dry – it’s also found in antifreeze. Even though glycerin is not toxic, this additive may cause nausea if swallowed.

4. Chalk

That’s right – chalk. Thanks to the fact that chalk is made from exoskeletons, it’s hard enough to remove all of that caked on gunk from your pearly whites. Chalk dust may cause lung problems if inhaled, and swallowing a bit of chalk could cause bleeding.

3. Titanium Dioxide

This is another common toothpaste ingredient, though it’s usually found in white paint. When added to toothpaste, titanium dioxide has the safe effect on your teeth as it does on walls – it keeps them nice and white (for a few hours, at least!). Ingesting titanium dioxide won’t hurt you, but it isn’t recommended either.

2. Saccharin

Something has to combat that terrible detergent taste! Saccharin is sweet, but not too sweet – just the way that most people like their toothpaste! Saccharin has been a hot topic of debate every since Theodore Roosevelt was in the White House. The USDA tried to ban the substance in 1972, though it is considered “safe” to ingest today.

1. Menthol

One last ingredient to add a minty note to your breath. Without menthol, toothpaste might taste like, well, chalk, glycerin, paraffin, detergent, titanium dioxide, and seaweed! Go ahead and ingest menthol if you like, but sipping some tea containing menthol is a far better idea than chewing on your tube of toothpaste.

My advice is to always buy toothpaste that has the ADA seal of approval on the box and has fluoride as an active ingredient.

If you enjoyed this article on the dangerous toothpaste ingredients, then there is a good chance you will enjoy these articles as well:

• “Tom’s Of Maine Organic Toothpaste Review“
• “How To Properly Clean Your Teeth“
• “Soladey Ionic Toothbrush: Eliminates The Need For Toothpaste“
• “Toothpaste That Changes Flavor Depending On The Weather“
• “The Environment Impacts Of Dentistry“
• “4 Ways Green Dentistry Can Save Green For A Dental Practice“

Thanks for reading !!

• “6 Things Your Teeth Say About Your Health“
• "Diabetes And Oral Health"
• “The Mouth Is A Window To Your Overall Health“
• “Tooth Loss Linked To Memory Loss“
• “Healthy Gums Healthy Heart“

Invisalign braces are the most modern technology used in orthodontics, redefining orthodontic treatment. Invisalign straightens your teeth by using some plastic “mouthguard” like trays, you change every 2 weeks, for as long as needed till the end.

Any orthodontics treatment starts with the initial consultation and this doesn’t break the rule. Your orthodontist will check you with great care and, should you “qualify” for Invisalign, you’ll be ready to undergo the first step to the trays: your molds. For the Invisalign specialists to really be able to create your patient specific trays, they will need to obtain perfect dental impressions. So, don’t be scared if your orthodontist is that determined to have them perfect. They are needed this way, since your entire treatment for all these months will depend on them. At Align Technologies your impressions, the information about the course of treatment and all other initial materials, will be taken by other orthodontic specialists. They will make a positive out of your dental impressions; the plaster molds helping them see your teeth in their normal form. Because your orthodontist was so careful with those impressions, now, the Align Technologies specialists almost have your “teeth” there, and you won’t have to travel thousands of miles just so they can also do your consultation.

The plaster models are checked again and cleaned. Any residue or imperfection is manually checked and solved, so that the plaster can enter the other stage: 3D processing. State of the art scanners are able to create a three dimensional version of these plasters, and these can now be processed on the computer. A barrier coating is applied to protect it from the possible damage it can take on the next stage. Once sealed, the models get placed into a chase, then in a mixture of urethane resin and hardener. They spend some hours in a vacuum pressure chamber the resin hardens and makes them look as blocks. Each tray gets into a destructive scanning machine. This removes paper thin slices 3000 of an inch, while a digital camera takes two dimensional images of each of these slices. The computer gathers more than 300 such images to create the 3D model.



These materials get sent to the technicians, who check once again if all is correct, the teeth and also the bite as the patient has it. The graphic designers will use a proprietary 3D application to cut each tooth and save it as a separate geometrical unit. The teeth are now separated and re-grouped on each arch in the position they will have once the treatment is complete. From the initial stage to the final result, there are many intermediate stages that make up the entire treatment. These are carefully considered since the treatment is different for each patient and the entire orthodontic process needs time. As in traditional braces case, we cannot have straight teeth over night, so all these stages are just the normal tooth movement created with each aligner till the teeth are straight and the bite corrected.

The quality check process is next, so that all the process, the teeth movement, prescribed treatment etc. are correct. The orthodontist who takes care personally of the patient is the one to decide if the treatment is a “go-go”, together with the patient him/herself. This application form is called “clincheck” After all the treatment was checked and approved the aligners will be created. A series of models are created of photo sensitive thermo plastic, each of them will then be turned into an aligner. The thermo plastic sheet is pressed over each model by the use of heat. Trimming comes next so that the aligners come half a millimeter under the gum line, reducing the chances of sores and making the removal easier for the patient.

The aligners are polished and disinfected in a series of cleaning tanks, each set being then packaged, labeled and shipped to the prescribing orthodontist.

If you enjoyed this article on invisalign braces, there is a good chance you will like these articles from my blog as well:

• “How To Shorten Time In Braces“
• “How And Why Teeth Move During Orthodontic Treatment“
• “What Are Clear Ceramic Orthodontic Braces“

Bleaching vs. Whitening

In Office Tooth Whitening

Professionally Dispensed Take Home Whitening Kits

Over The Counter Whitening

• Tooth Whitening Strips: Out of the other effective teeth whitening procedures available, tooth whitening strips may be the most economical. Most of these strips are available commercially, over the counter. The effectiveness of the result achieved depends on the brand used. These strips contain peroxide of a low concentration 6-15%, and should be worn for about an hour once or twice a day for a particular number of days. It is said to achieve a shade three times lighter than that of the teeth originally present. The strips are generally comfortable when worn and may produce only mild difficulty while talking.

• Tooth Whitening Toothpastes: Tooth whitening toothpastes seem to be one of the easiest dental tooth whitening types and are available over the counter. They are used just like normal toothpastes and may cost a little higher than the regular toothpaste. However they are not very effective and do not cause any obvious whitening effect on the teeth; though they function as well as any other toothpaste. The disadvantage may lie in the case of overeager individuals who may brush vigorously and many times a day hoping to achieve a productive result, which may do more harm than good to their teeth.

• Tooth Whitening Chewing Gum: Most commonly advertised are tooth whitening chewing gums which contain bicarb soda, also used in the tooth whitening toothpastes. May be considered the best teeth whitening products available since they are easy to use. They do not contain any bleaching agent as that used in normal bleaching systems which are more effective. The gum should be chewed for around 20mins each, four times a day. Any difference in shade would take up to four weeks to appear.

Hydrogen Peroxide vs. Carbamide Peroxide

Teeth Whitening Risks

• Sensitivity: Bleaching can cause a temporary increase in sensitivity to temperature, pressure and touch. This is likeliest to occur during in-office whitening, where higher-concentration bleach is used. Some individuals experience spontaneous shooting pains down the middle of their front teeth. Individuals at greatest risk for whitening sensitivity are those with gum recession, significant cracks in their teeth or leakage resulting from faulty restorations. It has also been reported that redheads, including those with no other risk factors, are at particular risk for tooth sensitivity and zingers. Whitening sensitivity lasts no longer than a day or two, but in some cases may persist up to a month. Some dentists recommend a toothpaste containing potassium nitrate for sensitive teeth.
• Gum irritation: Over half of those who use peroxide whiteners experience some degree of gum irritation resulting from the bleach concentration or from contact with the whitening trays. Such irritation typically lasts up to several days, dissipating after bleaching has stopped or the peroxide concentration lowered.
• Technicolor teeth:Restorations such as bonding, dental crowns or porcelain veneers are not affected by bleach and therefore maintain their default color while the surrounding teeth are whitened. This results in what is frequently called "technicolor teeth."

In Closing

• No amount of bleaching will yield "unnaturally" white teeth.
• Whitening results are not fully seen until approximately two weeks after bleaching. This is an important consideration if you are about to have ceramic restorations and want to be sure the color matches that of your newly bleached teeth.
• If cosmetic bonding, porcelain veneers or other restorations are part of your treatment plan, they should not be placed until a minimum of two weeks following bleaching to ensure proper adhesive bonding, function and shade matching.
• To avoid the technicolor effect, tooth-colored restorations will likely need replacement after bleaching.
• Recessed gums often reveal their yellowish root surfaces at the gum line. That yellow color has proven difficult to bleach.
• Pregnant or nursing women are advised to avoid teeth whitening. The potential impact of swallowed bleach on the fetus or baby is not yet known.

• “Technology Developed For Predicting Shade Color After Teeth Bleaching“
• “The History of Teeth Whitening“
• “Whiten Your Teeth With Strawberries“
• “Improve Your Life With Tooth Whitening“

Reversing cavities

Uses in dentistry

Most minimally invasive

Allowing repair

Differences of delivery

• “Why Some People Are More Prone To Dental Cavities Than Others“
• “New Inventions To Take The Pain Out Of Dentistry"
• “Tooth Regeneration Could Replace Dental Fillings“

From Grills to Tooth Jewels

Are Tooth Jewels Safer Than Dental Grills

The Best Bling: Regular Care From A Dental Hygienist

• “Kanye West's Dredded Diamond Studded Teeth“
• "Iced Out Gold Teeth Grillz"
• “Ancient Gem Studded Teeth“

• Severe gum pain
• Bleeding from gums when they're pressed even slightly
• Red or swollen gums
• Pain when eating or swallowing
• A gray film on your gums
• Crater-like sores (ulcers) between your teeth and on your gums
• A foul taste in mouth
• Bad breath
• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes around your head, neck or jaw

Trench Mouth Disease Treatment (ANUG)

• “Gum Disease In a Nutshell“
• “Whoopi Goldberg's View On Gum Disease“
• “Gum Disease Is The Leading Cause Of Tooth Loss“

The finding that the effects of Gatorade on teeth are worse than Coke and Red Bull doesn't mean that Gatorade and other sports drinks are necessarily harder on your teeth than are Coke and other soft drinks. But it may be a surprise that they aren't any better.

I don't think everybody realizes how erosive these things are, especially Gatorade and Red Bull.  People need to be aware that all sorts of beverages can be causing dental erosion.  More and more dentists now think sugary drinks are the major culprit in tooth decay, says Brian Burt, PhD, professor emeritus of epidemiology at the University of Michigan School of Public Health.

"There is pretty good evidence now that this is not just sports drinks, but soft drinks and juices in general," said Burt.  "They have become the main source of sugars in the diet. It comes down to the more sugar in the drink, the more risk of [cavities] to the person drinking it."

Effects Of Gatorade On Teeth

The University of Iowa researchers covered extracted teeth with nail polish. They left bare two patches on each tooth, one on the enamel and one on the root. Then they dunked the teeth in test tubes filled with regular Coke, Diet Coke, Gatorade, Red Bull, or 100 percent apple juice.

Every five hours, the researchers refreshed the beverages. After 25 hours, they examined the teeth with a microscope. All of the beverages eroded the bare spots on the teeth. But different beverages had significantly different effects.  On the enamel, Gatorade was significantly more corrosive than Red Bull and Coke. Red Bull and Coke, in turn, were significantly more corrosive than Diet Coke and apple juice.

Sports Drinks and Cavities

Because of their acidity and sugar content, researchers have studied the role of sports drinks in the development of cavities. Most of the studies, however, exonerate the sports drinks.

Craig Horswill, PhD, senior research fellow at the Gatorade Sports Science Institute, in 2005 reported a study of saliva flow in endurance athletes who drank Gatorade, diluted orange juice, a homemade sports drink, or water. The study showed that if the sports drinks had any effect, it was to decrease dehydration and increase saliva flow, which reduces cavity formation.

More to the point, a 2002 Ohio State University study of 304 athletes found no link between sports-drink use and dental erosion. The study was sponsored by Quaker Oats, which makes Gatorade.  "Dental erosion among users of sports drinks in the Ohio State study was the same as it was in nonusers," said Hoswill. "And they averaged 10 years of sports drink use."  Ignelzi says that what matters most isn't which beverage people drink. It's how and when they drink it.

"A lot of things can cause cavities, including sugared drinks. It is the way they are taken that is most important," he says. "The frequency of exposure is key. If you sip a Pepsi all day, that is very harmful. But if you are taking any sweet or carb -- cheese puffs, bread, raisins -- if you take it during meals, it is a good thing. Because the saliva stimulated by your chewing buffers the acid. But if you are constantly snacking on sweets or sipping a sweet beverage, your teeth are exposed to acid all day long."

If you enjoyed this article on how Gatorade erodes teeth, there is a good chance you will like these articles from my blog as well:

• “How A Mouthguard Can Change The Game“
• “Mouthguards And Concussion Prevention"
• "Dental Trauma In College Athletics"

Thanks for Reading !!

1. Tongue and floor of the mouth

• Look in a mirror and stick out your tongue.

• Examine the upper surface of the tongue for any unusual lumps or obvious changes in color. Dark blotches, for example, on the upper surface of the tongue should be examined.

• Pull the tongue forward and examine the sides for lumps, bumps, masses and, again, obvious changes in skin color or texture. If you discover any obvious swelling, see a doctor. Oral cancers are often painless, making them difficult to diagnosis based on pain. But you can see oral cancer, in many instances, early enough to solve the problem as an out patient. How cool is that?!

• Examine the underside of your tongue by placing the tip of your tongue on the roof of your mouth. Same procedure. See any unusual bumps, lumps, swelling or changes in skin color.

• Your tongue should have a uniform texture and uniform color. Glide you finger along the underside of your tongue to feel for unseen bumps. Any deviation should be examined by your family doctor first to see if a visit to an oncologist is step #2.

2. Examine the roof of your mouth

3. Check your cheeks

4. Head and Neck

5. Lips

6. Neck Area

7. A Persistent Cough

As a periodontist, I am asked on a daily basis what toothpaste, floss and mouth rinse I recommend. My patients are typically surprised when I recommend Tom's of Maine organic oral health products.

Tom's of Maine was founded in 1970 by Tom Chappell and his wife, Kate, on their farm near Kennebunk, Maine. Tom, a 1966 graduate of Trinity College in Connecticut, and Kate, an artist and poet, had moved to Maine from Philadelphia in 1968 after Tom quit his job as a benefits counselor at Aetna. Both were intent on living closer to the land and raising their children in a more natural environment. Tom's of Maine was one of the first green companies on the scene to develop commercial organic toothpaste. Today they have a variety of organic mouth care products on the market.

Tom Chappell, whose deep concern for the environment and his employees' well-being have been key factors in determining the company's path. Tom's products contain no artificial ingredients, are not tested on animals, and are packaged in recycled materials. One unusual byproduct of Tom's of Maine was the decision to "tithe" 5 percent of Tom's of Maine's profits and donate the money to environmental, arts, and human needs causes. This figure soon became 7 percent, and then 10. In addition to public giving, the company also looked after the welfare of its employees, offering them retirement savings and profit-sharing programs, childcare benefits, and parental leave, and even free fruit to eat on the job. Factory workers rotated stations every hour to avoid fatigue and boredom, and all were encouraged to perform volunteer work in the Kennebunk community on company time

In 1995, after a seven-year effort, Tom's became the first natural toothpaste to win the approval of the American Dental Association (ADA), allowing it to put that organization's seal on its products. This was a crucial endorsement, as all of the company's major competitors had long sported the ADA seal, which served to assure consumers that their products were effective. The process had taken far longer than usual because the ADA had no standards for natural products, and also because Tom's did not allow testing on animals, which meant new methods of testing had to be devised and certified. The three most popular flavors, spearmint, cinnamon and fennel, were approved first, and the company continued to seek ADA certification for the rest of its fluoride line. Tom's products contain no artificial ingredients, are not tested on animals, and are packaged in recycled materials. Another very important point to mention is that Tom’s of Maine tests their products for safety without the use of animals.

Organic Mouth Care: Tom's of Maine

Tom's of Maine is one of the better known established organic and environmentally friendly companies on the green scene today. The company first began developing organic mouth care in 1975. Tom's of Maine single natural toothpaste was the spark that lead to the organic creation of several types of natural toothpastes, mouth washes and dental flosses. Today they have developed a total of seventeen organic mouth care products, all which now have expanded distribution through a joint venture with Colgate-Palmolive.

Toothpaste

The Tom's of Maine line of organic toothpaste products contains thirteen different types of pastes. While a few of the pastes focus on general mouth health, there are other pastes that have been created for specific mouth related issues . One Tom's of Maine toothpaste is the Anti-plaque Propolis and Myrrh paste created without fluoride to promote healthy teeth and gums while fighting plaque. They also have developed a paste for sensitive teeth and gums called Sensitive CareSLS-free. The Sensitive Care paste uses a purified form of licorice root as an alternative SLS, which is an ingredient in non organic pastes that can sometimes cause more sensitivity when used over an extended period of time. They also have an organic, all natural toothpaste that does contain fluoride.

Mouthwash

The natural mouthwash line from Tom's of Maine only contains two forms of wash for organic mouth care. The first one is the Natural Cleansing mouthwash that uses witch hazel as an astringent and is alcohol and saccharin free. The second one is the Natural Anti-Cavity mouthwash made from Green Tea, Chamomile, Aloe Vera leaf juice and naturally sourced fluoride.

Dental Floss

The organic dental floss that Tom's of Maine offers is made from nylon filaments that are woven together, making a stronger floss. Currently, they have only two products of the same type but where one floss is rounded the other is straight. Both flosses are coated in a combination of natural waxes to help the nylon slid through the teeth easier and be less abrasive to the gums.



I have always believed that it's what's inside that counts. Tom's hopes you'll apply that same rule to their products. They strive to use naturally sourced, wholesome ingredients that just make you feel right when you choose them.

They are proud of their ingredients and they feel like you deserve to be informed, so they post every ingredient on their website. Every ingredient in their products is posted along with their reason for using it and where it's sourced. Here is the link to a list of their incredients: Click Here

• “Making a Dental Practice Eco-Friendly“
• “Dentists Going Green: Eco-Friendly Dental Offices“
• “4 Simple Ways Dentistry Can Help The Environment“
• “The Environment Impacts Of Dentistry“
• "4 Ways Green Dentistry Can Save Green For A Dental Practice"

What Are The Advantages Of Using A Mac Over A PC

Operating System:

Operating System Flexiblity:

Design:

Security:

Compatiblility With Other Mac Products:

MacPractice DDS:

Here is a list of the software abilities:

• Electronic Dental Records

• Digital Radiography

• Periodontal Charting

• Restorative Charting

• Attachments: Insurance, patient intake forms, etc..

• Scheduling

• eClaims

• RX

• ePrescrbe

• Notes

• iPhone and iPad interface. Both remotely and in office.

• Patient Web Interface

• Reports

• Reminders

• Managers

• References

• Help. This is a nice touch. You simply touch the question mark on the software, type in a question you may have and you will get a phone call withing an hour to resolve the problem or answer your question. And this service is not an additional cost.

• “3D Digital Scanning Of Teeth May Soon Replace Plaster Models“
• “New Inventions To Take The Pain Out Of Dentistry“
• “Chip Implanted In Tooth Stores Your Medical History“

Charlie Sheen appears to have had his porcelain crowns replaced with gold crowns.  The Two And Half Men star was recently released from rehab after going on a 36 hour drug binge with porn stars.  But his continued drug use has meant that it appears his porcelain crowns and/or veneers have had to be replaced with gold crowns.

How Drugs Can Cause Dental Problems

• Cracked teeth: One of the signs of drug induced dental decay is cracked teeth. This happens when drug users grind and clench their teeth. This can happen both while under the influence of the drug and in the aftermath while experience withdrawal symptoms.
• Dry mouth: Xerostomia, which is known more commonly as dry mouth, results when there is a reduction in the saliva that is formed. Saliva provides natural protection for teeth and gums. The use of drugs reduces the production of saliva, and that means that there is lower protection. This condition can be exacerbated by the fact that many drug users sometimes sleep for more than 24 hours at time - often with the mouth open.
• Indifference to oral hygiene: One of the hallmarks of an addiction is an increasing indifference to matters of hygiene. This includes oral hygiene. Many drug users do not bother to brush or floss their teeth, or eat foods that can help strengthen and protect them. This leads to a situation in which the mouth is vulnerable to weak teeth, gum disease and other problems.

It is important to note that the problem of drug induced dental decay can be enhanced by tobacco use, consuming sugary drinks, and the fact that drug users rarely eat (many drugs are appetite suppressants), meaning that there is less of a change for saliva to be produced and used in the mouth.

You should also realize that drug induced dental decay can result from the use of many different drugs.  Even though it is called typically know as "meth mouth", those who are addicted to other substances, including cocaine and even alcohol, may experience a similar oral condition. Additionally, those with problems related to saliva production - even if drug abuse is not an issue - can exhibit the signs of drug induced dental decay. Children, teenagers and adults who do not properly care for their teeth can also, over time, develop what appears to be meth mouth, even without going anywhere near drugs. However, in drug abusers, the characteristic signs of drug induced dental decay generally develop much fast.

If drug induced dental decay is not addressed, and the situation is allowed to continue, it can lead to a number of serious problems. It is possible for gum disease to develop, and for teeth to begin falling out. Additionally, oral cancer is a possibility. Another concern is that disease in the mouth can spread to other parts of the body. Also, poor oral hygiene can weaken the immune system, leaving someone with cavities more vulnerable to colds and the flu, and other attacks on the respiratory system.

I truly hope Charlie Sheen gets his life back on track. The point of this blog was not to bash Charlie Sheen, it was to educate the public of what drug use can do to your oral health.

If you enjoyed this post there is a good chance you will like these posts from my blog as well:

• “Whoopi Goldberg's View On Gum Disease“
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Pictures of grinning kids may reveal more than a happy childhood: a study from DePauw University shows that how intensely people smile in childhood photographs, as indicated by crow’s feet around the eyes, predicts their adult marriage success.

According to the research, people whose smiles were weakest in snapshots from childhood through young adulthood were most likely to report being divorced in middle and old age. Among the weakest smilers in college photographs, one in four ended up divorcing, compared with one in 20 of the widest smilers. The same pattern held among even those pictured at an average age of 10.

The paper builds on a 2001 study by psychologists at the University of California, Berkeley, that tracked the well-being and marital satisfaction of women from college through their early 50s. That work found that coeds whose smiles were brightest in their senior yearbook photographs were most likely to be married by their late 20s, least likely to remain single into middle age, and happiest in their marriage; they also scored highest on measures of overall well-being (including psychological and physical difficulties, relationships with others and general self-satisfaction).

The scientists speculate that one’s tendency to grin—an example of what psychologists call “thin slices” of behavior that can belie personal traits—reflects his or her underlying emotional disposition. Positive emotionality influences how others respond to a person, perhaps making that individual more open and likely to seek out situations conducive to a lasting, happy marriage.

But there could be a more cynical explanation, according to Matthew Hertenstein, a psychologist at DePauw who led the new study. “Maybe people who look happier in photos show a social face to others,” he says. “Those may be the same people who are likely to put up with partners because they don’t want to appear unhappy.”

If you enjoyed this article, there is a good chance you will like these articles from my blog as well:

• Thumb Sucking Prevention In Children
• Five Signs Your Baby Is Teething
• Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

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• “6 Things Your Teeth Say About Your Health“
• “Tooth Loss Linked To Memory Loss“
• “Healthy Gums Healthy Heart“

Researchers have found that elderly people who lose their teeth may be at increased risk for dementia.

The new study included more than 4,000 Japanese participants, 65 and older, who underwent a dental examination and a psychiatric assessment. Compared with participants who still had many of their natural teeth, those with fewer or no teeth were much more likely to have experienced some memory loss or have early-stage Alzheimer’s disease.

The findings were published online Dec. 31 in Behavioral and Brain Functions.

Participants with symptoms of memory loss tended to report that they had visited the dentist rarely, if at all. Dr. Nozomi Okamoto, the study’s principal investigator, said that this may be one explanation for the study’s findings but suggested that there may be other links between tooth loss and memory problems.

“Infections in the gums that can lead to tooth loss may release inflammatory substances, which in turn will enhance the brain inflammation that cause neuronal death and hasten memory loss,” she said in a news release from the journal’s publisher. “The loss of sensory receptors around the teeth is linked to some of the dying neurons.”

Gum Disease Can Lead To Tooth Loss

This may lead to a vicious cycle, Okamoto explained. The loss of these brain connections can cause more teeth to fall out, further contributing to cognitive decline.

I found this research extremely interesting and it is the first study that I am aware of that has linked periodontal disease to memory loss.

If you enjoyed this post there is a good chance you will like these posts from my blog as well:

• “6 Things Your Teeth Say About Your Health“
• “Healthy Gums Healthy Heart“
• “Diabetes And Oral Health“

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An immediate dental implant requires planning and skill, in fact it requires team work between the patient – restorative dentist, implant surgeon and laboratory technician. 

There is no question that given the current state of the art in dentistry, that dental implants are pretty much the best way to replace teeth; they are stand alone tooth replacement systems that look and function just like regular teeth. They do not attach to adjacent teeth like dental bridges and don’t have to be taken in and out like removable partial dentures.

A dental implant is a tooth root replacement made of titanium, which has the unique property of being osteophilic (osteo-bone, philic-loving) and actually fuses to bone. A dental crown, the part of the tooth that you see in your mouth, is attached to the implant. And the great thing about implants is they are not susceptible to decay or periodontal (gum) disease in the same way that teeth are.

Now here are a few important pointers, which hold for dental implants generally and are especially important in cases when replacing a front tooth for an imminent event like a wedding in which you need to look your best.

A photograph showing a fractured tooth broken off at the gum line. A photograph showing an immediate implant and the abutment replacing the fractured tooth. A photograph showing the final crown on top of the implant 3 months after the original surgery.

Many times, a periodontist, oral surgeon or specially trained dentist can place an implant directly into the extraction socket immediately following tooth removal. It is imperative that the extraction of the failing tooth be performed very carefully and without damage to the surrounding gum and bone tissue. This is known as an “immediate” replacement implant. Traditionally the socket is allowed to heal and fill in with new bone first before an implant is placed into it.

The benefit to having an implant placed “immediately” is that only a single surgical procedure is necessary as opposed to two separate procedures. Dental implant success is dependent upon initial stabilization and immobilization in the bone, meaning there should be no movement of the implant at all. This is critical to the fusion of the implant with the bone. Initially, the implant is held securely in place by mechanical forces. As the implant heals, it forms a microscopic bond with the surrounding bone which is known as osseointegration (osseo-bone, integration – to become one with).

It is more difficult to place and secure an implant at the time of tooth extraction because there is less bone available, and the security comes from being able to fit the implant as closely as possible into the remaining socket and to the bone beyond it (where the extracted tooth root ended). This is especially important in the front of the mouth where the teeth show more in what we dentists call the “esthetic zone”.  The procedure carries some risk, but is quite predictable in the hands of an experienced surgeon.

A crown, usually “provisional” in nature can also be placed immediately. This makes it all the more critical to have an initially stable, non-movable implant, because a crown placed immediately will tend to destabilize the implant with biting forces. The provisional crown therefore needs to be made so that it really doesn’t contact the teeth in the opposing jaw so you can’t bite or eat on it for a period of time – this means the new tooth is initially there just for social appearances. We call it a “provisional” crown, since we need to wait until we know that the implant has fully osseointegrated, a matter of 2 – 6 months, before making a final permanent crown. That way we can be assured that not only the bone, but also the gum tissue are stable and fully healed; that the gum level and the “papillae”, the little pink triangular gum that adequately fills the space between the implant crown and adjacent teeth. This can indeed result in a very esthetic, functional and long term tooth replacement.

If you enjoyed this article, there is a good chance you will like these articles from my blog as well:

• “What Are Dental Implants“
• “Dental Implant Success Rates”
• “How To Make Dental Implant Crowns Look Natural“
• “Metal Free Ceramic Dental Implants“

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What if your toothpaste could tell you whether you needed to leave the house carrying an umbrella? Or how hot the day was going to be?  Odd as it may sound, David Carr of MIT's Media Lab is working on just such a prototype product, "Tastes Like Rain."Carr and his colleagues are focused on super-mechanicals, or the idea of taking a basic object and giving it dynamic properties (consider, for example, the Proverbial Wallets, also out of MIT Media Lab, that know your financial state and prevent over spending).

In this case, toothpaste is modified to dispense one of three flavors depending on the weather. If it's mint, you know it's colder out than yesterday. Cinnamon means it's hotter. Blue stripes indicate precipitation.

The prototype is currently hooked up to a small Linux computer that pulls forecasts, using custom software to compare previous and current temperatures and divvy up the flavors.

Then, linear actuators squeeze out the proper variety of toothpaste through a heavily modded Mentadent dispenser.

Eventually, the technology could be pared down so "Tastes Like Rain" shows up on store shelves alongside the Colgate and Crest. Minus the computer, Carr hints it could be powered on a low-cell battery.

The prototype is in the early stages and Carr is still working out technical specifications. Perhaps selling a base unit that plugs into the wall and serves as a both a communications hub and mixing valve would be a viable option with refill tubes available.

Of course, we're not sure how much reach Carr's device would have given today's easy access to weather apps on phones and computers. But the idea itself is remarkably creative and hints that we're likely to see many more super-mechanical innovations in the future. Cloudy with a chance of potentially awesome.

If you enjoyed this article, there is a good chance you will like these articles from my blog as well:

• “How Sensodyne Toothpaste Decreases Tooth Sensitivity“
• “Why Teeth Whitening Toothpastes Aren't Whitening Your Teeth“
• “Whiten Your Teeth With Strawberries“
• “Chocolate Toothpaste…Cocoa Extract Fights Tooth Decay“

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An innovative device which cancels out the noise of the dental drill could spell the end of people's anxiety about trips to the dentist, according to experts at King's College London, Brunel University and London South Bank University, who pioneered the invention.

It is widely known that the sound of the dental drill is the prime cause of dental anxiety, and some patients avoid trips to the dentist because of it. This new device could help address people's fears and encourage them to seek the oral healthcare treatment they need.

The prototype device works in a similar way to noise-cancelling headphones but is designed to deal with the very high pitch of the dental drill. Patients would simply unplug their headphones, plug the device into their MP3 player or mobile phone, and then plug the headphones into the device, allowing them to listen to their own music while completely blocking out the unpleasant sound of the drill and dental suction equipment. The patient can still hear the dentist and other members of the dental team speaking to them but other unwanted sounds are filtered out by the device.

Containing a microphone and a chip that analyses the incoming sound wave, the device produces an inverted wave to cancel out unwanted noise. It also uses technology called 'adaptive filtering' where electronic filters lock onto sound waves and removes them, even if the amplitude and frequency change as the drill is being used.

The device was initially the brainchild of Professor Brian Millar at King's College London's Dental Institute who was inspired initially by car maker Lotus' efforts to develop a system that removed unpleasant road noise, while still allowing drivers to hear emergency sirens. Then with over a decade of collaboration with engineering researchers at Brunel University and London South Bank University, a prototype has been designed, built and successfully evaluated.

Although the product is not yet available to dentists, King's is calling for an investor to help bring it to market. Professor Brian Millar said: "Many people put off going to the dentist because of anxiety associated with the noise of the dentist drill. But this device has the potential to make fear of the drill a thing of the past.

"The beauty of this gadget is that it would be fairly cost-effective for dentists to buy, and any patient with an MP3 player would be able to benefit from it, at no extra cost. What we need now is an investor to develop the product further, to enable us to bring this device to as many dental surgeries as possible, and help people whose fear of visiting the dentist stops them from seeking the oral healthcare they need."

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• “Acupuncture Helps Ease Dental Anxiety“
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We know how and why implants successfully fuse to bone, but making the crowns (the parts of the teeth that attach to them) look real is another matter. That is where art really meets science. What drives the result is how the tooth or crown shape actually emerges through the gums, and the ability to identically match the color to the adjacent teeth. What follows are some of the predictive factors and criteria for success that dentists involved in implant dentistry have learned through evidence based research, clinical practice and experience over the years.

The Bone Sets The Tone

The first factor is that there needs to be an adequate volume of bone and gum, in the right position to anchor or support a tooth implant. This means that when a tooth is lost, the remaining bone of the tooth socket has to be managed delicately so as to retain as much bone as possible, avoiding the natural tendency of the socket to collapse and resorb (melt away). This can be done by:

* Minimizing trauma during tooth removal, especially important if an immediate implant is to be placed the same day with a temporary crown;
* Using “bone grafting” materials and techniques to minimize resorption;
* Rebuilding bone where lost with regenerative surgical techniques.

These techniques allow an implant to be optimally positioned in order to place a crown in perfect position.

Good Neighbors

Believe it or not the second factor is the amount of bone on the adjacent tooth/teeth. Maintaining a normal volume and height of bone attached to the adjacent teeth actually controls the height of the “papillae,” the little pink triangles of tissue that fill the spaces in the areas beneath where the teeth contact each other. If bone is lost on either side of an implant against a natural tooth, there is no guarantee that the papillae (those small, pink triangle of gum tissue between teeth) will regenerate fully, leading to what we dentists refer to as “black hole disease.”

Tissue Is The Issue

The third factor to consider is the genetic tissue type you are born with. It is a lot more difficult to achieve a great result with genetically thin tissue than it is with thicker tissue types. Think of the gingival tissues like a curtain, the thicker the curtain, the more wear and shrink resistant it will be. Thin tissues are more delicate to work with surgically, tending to recede, and are more see-through, making it difficult to hide the metal of an underlying implant or other implant crown materials. Thicker gum tissues are more robust and resilient, easier to work with surgically, and hide more.

“Emergence Profile” — From Bud Into Flower

The seamless transition from implant into exact tooth replica is almost akin to the transformation of a bud into a flower — it involves the way the crown, which attaches to the implant seemingly emerges through the gum tissue, exactly like a natural tooth. This “emergence profile” involves both the implant shape and how far it is placed below the bone and gum tissues relative to the adjacent teeth. This is dependent upon good planning, surgical experience and skill during dental implant placement, allowing space for the “emergence profile” to be developed.

Work Out The Final — In The Temporary

Where aesthetics is of paramount importance as in the front of the mouth, a customized temporary crown acts as a template or blueprint for a final crown. This allows several of the criteria for success to be worked out ahead of time, including: color, shape and regeneration of papillae. This includes compatibility with the gum tissues and smile line, speech, and biting function. Choice of crown materials, color matching, even the dental laboratory technician — are all mechanical and artistic ingredients that go into the mix before baking this particular pie, and lead to good matching of the implant supported crown to adjacent natural teeth. These factors in and of themselves demand their own skill sets, expertise and experience to achieve optimal success.

Implant to Tooth Versus Implant to Implant

The picture changes when it comes to placing implants next to implants, in addition to adjacent teeth. The distance between the implants and the shape and size of the implants then become even more critical, and in fact it may not be possible to completely regenerate natural looking papillae between the implants relative to the natural teeth.

All Things Considered

There are in fact many more factors to consider in this special situation, but this consultation gives you a flavor for the variety. Good surgical manipulation (in the best sense of the word), experience and skill are all pre-requisites for great implant aesthetics in the most critical places, in the smile line or “aesthetic zone.” As with most of the endeavors discussed, pre-surgical assessment, diagnosis, and team planning (surgeon placing the implant, restorative dentist and laboratory technician making the crown), all go into both the planning and realization of success.

If you enjoyed this article, there is a good chance you will like these articles from my blog as well:

• “What Are Dental Implants“
• “Dental Implant Success Rates”
• “Metal Free Ceramic Dental Implants“

Thanks for Reading !!