What are the best basic cleaning products?

There are literally hundreds of brands/kinds/styles of toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss and other cleaners out on the market today, all with their special shape, color, style, marketing, flavor, ect.  Even I feel overwhelmed when I go to the toothbrush/toothpaste aisle in the store! Most dentists have different preferences as to brands, ect. 

Is an electric toothbrush better? Which one is the best?

This all depends on which study you read.  There are many studies on electric vs manual toothbrushes and on which electric toothbrush is the better than the other.  In my opinion, an electric toothbrush is easier to use and can help get areas clean that is more difficult to get with a manual toothbrush.  I recommend an electric brush.  There is good solid research that rotary electric brushes are easier on your gums.  Hopefully, this will aid in your decision.

Why do my gums bleed when I floss?

When the gums get irritated by plaque, bacteria or food, they call the defense cells in the blood for help.  The cells travel in the blood, consequently bleeding occurs.  Try flossing for 2 weeks everyday, if the gums still bleed on the 3rd week, consult your dentist.

Do sensitive toothpastes work?

Make sure when buying a sensitive toothpaste it contains potassium nitrate, which has been clinically proven to reduce tooth sensitivity, if sensitivity last more than 3 weeks consult your dentist.

Should I brush or floss first?

The sequence makes no difference as long as you do a thorough job.  Brush for at least 2 minutes.  Mouthwash last.

Does Whitening Toothpaste Work?

If you read on the back of most whitening toothpastes, it will say, “whitens by gently removing stains.”  I have not seen any whitening toothpaste that contains a whitener.  Since most all toothpaste have the word whitening on them and they are all around the same price, get it and remove those stains! 

Does Whitening gum work?

It has not shown to be effective with normal chewing.  It is slightly effective if you chew 3-4 packs of it a day and on your front teeth.

Do over the Counter Whiteners Work?

Yes, but they take a while.  They are about a fourth to a half as strong as professional whitening. With the constant cycle of tooth staining while trying to whiten with a lower strength, it’s hard to see a drastic improvement in over the counter whitening. I recommend a dental visit before trying to whiten.  What many people do not consider is that, if tooth colored fillings are present; these filling do not bleach like the teeth do. 

Is Listerine as good as floss?

The research does show Listerine is effective as floss, but there is a catch.  It is considered effective in reducing bacterial levels around the gum line, which would be picked up with floss.  Where the study is somewhat misleading is it does not remove plaque and bacteria that get trapped between contacts of the teeth.  This plaque, which contains bacteria between the teeth can lead to tooth decay between your teeth that can only be detected by x-ray and a through exam.  I recommend not to skip out on the flossing, do both.   The marketing campaign by Listerine that stated using their product was as good as floss was shut down within 3 months. 

What is a deep cleaning?

Deep cleaning  (Known as scaling and root planing) is a procedure done to remove plaque and tartar underneath the gum line.  Brushing and flossing will not remove the tartar from underneath the gum line, only a deep professional cleaning can.

What is dental probing?

A dental probe is a measuring device that measures the depth of your gums. It is measured in millimeters on 6 sites of the tooth. These numbers aide the dentist in seeing progress after a deep cleaning.  The numbers should decrease. 

If I have a cavity and it does not hurt why do I need to fix it?

When a cavity starts to hurt, that is when it is almost too late!  Cavities do no hurt until they get close to the nerve in the tooth. The tooth has 2 layers to protect the nerve, the enamel and the dentin.  The enamel is one of the hardest elements of the human body, its amazing to think microscopic bacteria can destroy it.  Once the bacteria sets up in the dentin of the tooth, the tooth can literally become an eggshell and still look like nothing is wrong. The longer the bacteria sit inside the tooth, the more they destroy.   The bacteria work its way through the dentin to the nerve. This is when we start to feel the pain. By then the nerve has bacteria in it and an infection develops at the root tip of the tooth. The only way to save this tooth now is a root canal and crown, when a filling would have been more simple and cost effective.

Extracting vs. Root Canal and Crown?

Yes, it's costly to save a tooth, but if the tooth is extracted, this disrupts the balance of the oral cavity.  Pulling the tooth will can cause teeth to shift and drift.  There is a ligament around each tooth, this ligament caries a nerve channel called proprioception. Propreoception allows us to unconsciously know if we are biting on something hard or soft.  It also gives us a sense of knowing when we are going to hit something such as the tooth above or below. When extracting a tooth, this proprioception is lost.  By saving the tooth with a crown and root canal, the harmony of the oral cavity is not disturbed, neither is the proprioception.

Is Fluoride Toxic?

Yes, but so is the chloride that is in a swimming pool or hot tub. In both examples, these things are beneficial at certain levels. Fluoride does do harm on teeth past certain levels. But at the right level, it’s very beneficial to us.  Many studies have proven the success fluorides (at certain levels) have on enamel of teeth. There is also a new strengthener called Amorphous Calcium Phosphate (ACP) that is showing promise.  Research is showing decay if caught early enough can be reversed with the use of Fluorides and ACP.

Is Mercury toxic?

This is the biggest question in dentistry, even among dentists and the FDA. The FDA is currently conducting its own research about mercury / metal as a tooth restoration material and its effects on the body. This is supposed to be released in a few years.  I believe metal restorations are good and serve their purpose; however, today’s  bonded tooth colored restorative materials have great strength. The esthetics and strength of these materials have made these the material of choice over a metal restoration. The ultimate restoration is the new, thin, strong,  porcelains out now. I don’t advocate the removal of a good metal restoration, but will be glad to take out these at the request of the patient; after all it's your body and your decision.

What is Halitosis?

Bad Breath (halitosis) can be caused by several different factors. The primary element that causes halitosis is gum disease.  (See gum disease) Other contributors of halitosis are, but not limited to, dry mouth, acid reflux disease, alcohol, smoking, all requiring different methods of treatment.  Every treatment for halitosis should be started with a good thorough cleaning and hygiene instructions.

What do I do if I need a transplant or chemo and radition therapy?

If starting any kind of transplant, I strongly recommend a dental exam to rule out dental infections. High bacterial levels in the mouth, lead to high blood bacteria levels.  These bacteria from the mouth seek places to live such as heart or an irregular biological surface that is found in any surgically placed prosthesis.  High bacterial levels also complicate the body’s acceptance of a transplant and post surgical healing. Many transplant specialists will not even put a transplant case on a waiting list until the case has had dental clearance. Before beginning cancer therapy a dental evaluation with a full set of mouth x-rays should be performed. Any decay, gum disease or abscesses should be treated, if time permits, prior to chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy.  The oral cavity can undergo serious changes during and after therapy. It is best to have the patient's mouth in optimal health prior to beginning anti-cancer therapy. Each year about 400,000 people with cancer develop treatment-related complications in the mouth ranging from chronic dry mouth to bone disintegration.  If serious, these complications can be life threatening.  While many are unavoidable, some can be prevented or minimized if good oral health is achieved.

What is included in Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry involves any type of dentistry that helps improve ones self image, esteem, and confidence. This is a very rewarding part of dentistry, both for patient and dentist.   Cosmetic Dentistry can embrace many different areas of dentistry which include: Braces, Crowns, Veneers, Tooth Colored Fillings, Whitening, Gum Surgeries, Tooth Recontouring, ect.  Growing in popularity, cosmetic dentistry has a very bright future.  A new smile can change an appearance drastically.

Do you offer Dentistry for Children?

Yes, we offer full dental services for children.  All kids are unique, some are more fearful than others.  Children’s experiences, good or bad, with a dentist can last a lifetime. I encourage parents not to force kids to brush with threats about the dentist.  Also watch them brush or brush with them until they reach a trustworthy age.   Positive encouragement about the dentist on a child will lead to a lifetime of good oral health.  When children reach a certain age, I will begin to ask the parents to stay in the waiting room. Studies show kids use parents for a crutch to get out of many different situations.  If a child is not responsive, I will refer the child to a specialist being in the best interest of the child long term.

How can I deal with Common Mouth Sores?

Do you get those annoying, painful cold sores that have a very long healing time?  What about those painful tiny ulcers in your mouth?  Bit your cheek or tongue?  These oral lesions appear in our lives at the wrong time. There is lots of research being done about these sores. If there is a sore that comes up for the first time or something new, please don’t hesitate to consult your dentist for an exam.  There may be something we can do to help you.  Some sores show up in your mouth from systemic problems, in which we can refer you to the appropriate place to have it treated.

What is a Crown?

A Crown (known as a cap) is a structure made either of metal, porcelain or both.  A crown is made to prevent the tooth from cracking, chipping, ect. The main reason a crown is needed is if a tooth has had a root canal.  Another common reason a crown is needed is if a tooth has a very large filling in it.    If a tooth has a large filling or root canal and a crown is not placed, the tooth is very susceptible to a break or fracture.  These fractures are unpredictable and can not be restored, causing you to lose that tooth.

How can I curb Dental Anxiety?

Many people are frightened of the dentist. This usually stems from a bad experience in the past.  If a bad incident has been experienced, please let your dentist know. There are many ways we can help you relax.  Something as simple as bringing headphones to the appointment may help tremendously. Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas) is another option.  There are also oral sedatives one can take before the appointment to aide in relaxing.  I encourage open communication to the dentist and his staff about the anxiety.  Everyone person is different and need different ways to help them. Take a look at our Facing Dental Anxieties page.

Do you handle Dental Emergencies?

Dental emergencies can range from a toothache to getting a tooth knocked out.   Usually dental emergencies can be prevented.  If participating in any kind of contact sport, I would recommend wearing a mouth guard.  I encourage parents of active children to be cautious of potential dental hazards and to be aware of what to do in dental emergencies.  Don’t hesitate to ask questions about dental emergencies.   If a dental emergency occurs, I encourage a call to a dentist as soon as possible.  Many emergencies are time dependent in their outcomes.  For example, if a tooth is knocked out, it can be re-implanted with an encouraging success rate if under an hour after getting knocked out.  Keep all parts of a tooth, always hold a displaced tooth by its crown, store in milk or clean water. Click here for more details. (http://www.ada.org/public/manage/emergencies.asp 

Does Ascent Dental offer Dentures?

Dentures (False Teeth) are needed with the loss of all teeth.  Complete dentures have  20% of the efficiency of natural teeth, but will allow mastication of most foods.  Dentures are made out of an acrylic base with resin teeth.  A new denture wearer will take about a month to completely get used to dentures.  The upper denture regularly will have a good fit.  Most denture wearers have problems with the lower denture, due to bone height and muscle attachments.  For lower denture to fit well, I recommend implants placed to keep the denture stabilized.

What is an Extraction?

An extraction is the removal of a tooth.  Two common reasons for extractions are gum disease (periodontitis) and unrestorable tooth decay (cavities).  Extracting a tooth will usually complicate the balance of the oral cavity, which can lead to teeth shifting and drifting. A major decree in dentistry is that all teeth have to touch, both side to side and when biting. I recommend that after tooth removal and healing, a false replacement tooth be put in as soon as possible to restore the harmony of the oral cavity and jaw joints.

How important is Diet to Oral Health?

Teeth constantly undergo mineralization cycle on a molecular level.  The stronger the acidic content of your food (sugars, cokes, lemons, ect), the more the teeth lose its strong mineral content which cause them to be weaker and softer.  When we eat and drink neutral foods (water, cheese, apples, ect) this causes the tooth to build its mineral content, making it stronger.  The fluoride in toothpaste actually combines with the minerals of the tooth and makes the mineral complex very strong.  Its important that after eating something acidic to  not brush right away, swishing with water is best to neutralize the acid on the tooth.  Some believe oral cavity health is a good monitor to overall health.

Do you Treat Dry Mouth?

Dry Mouth (Xerostomia) is a condition where salvia glands don’t produce enough salvia or stop working completely.  This can be caused by several things such as  medications, age, radiation therapy, immunocompromised patients, alcoholism, diabetes, ect.  There are 3 main salivary glands and lots of minor glands in the oral cavity. Salvia is a very important cleaning tool for the mouth.  Saliva aides in swallowing, digestion, buffering, cooling and cleaning of the oral cavity.  Salvia is made of water, electrolytes, mucus and enzyme that helps keep our mouths at a certain pH.  When normal unstimulated salvia is low the oral cavity does not get cleansed, thus causing lots of plaque build up which leads to rampant tooth decay and many other problems. Treating dry mouth is determined by how much salvia is being produced.

What are the Different Types of Gum Disease?

Gum Disease is a condition in which the gums around the teeth become inflamed.  There are two types of gum disease.

Gingivitis – Gingivitis occurs as a result of plaque (soft) and tarter or calculus (hard) adhering to the teeth around the gum line. The bacteria and debris in plaque and tarter cause the gums to get inflamed.  The inflammation of the gums is a result of the body putting up a defense mechanism to fight these bacteria.  This is why gums bleed, the cells that fight bacteria are in the blood. Gingivitis is generally reversible through regular dental cleanings and thorough hygiene. 

Periodontitis -  If gingivitis is left untreated the bacterial complex of plaque and tarter start working its way underneath the gum line. Once underneath the gum line the bacteria become more aggressive and cause an infection that destroys the bone teeth are anchored into. Once the bone is lost, the teeth begin to loosen and eventually will fall out.  Periodontitis is the number one cause of adult tooth loss.  The bone loss associated with periodontitis is not reversible.  However, periodontitis if treated aggressively can be stopped and maintained, to prevent further bone loss.   Periodontitis patients will require a cleaning called scaling and root planing, which involves going under the gum line to clean away the bacterial complexes of plaque and tarter.  Once the deep cleanings are completed, periodontitis patients need to be re-evaluated to see how the tissues responded to the deep cleanings.  Periodontitis patients usually need to come in for maintenance cleanings every 3 to 4 months.

Does Ascent Dental Offer Implants?

Yes.  Dental implants are biocompatible metal screws that are surgically placed in the jaw.  The implant acts as a tooth root.  After the implant has had time to heal, a crown is placed on the implant and now can be treated like a tooth.  Implants also can be used with complete dentures to help the denture be more stable.  Implant prosthesis can either be fixed or removable. Implants have had great success and continue to be one of the best ways to replace a missing tooth.  However, heavy smokers do not have a good success rate with implants.

Do you test for Oral Cancer?

It is our job to detect and notify you of any kind of oral pathology.  If we see anything abnormal, I will refer you to the appropriate specialist to get another opinion on it. I urge you to complete that appointment to get it resolved.   As with anything, we feel most problems if caught early can be resolved more simply. Please visit this link for more information about Oral Cancer. http://www.oralcancerfoundation.org/

Do you offer Partial Dentures?

Yes, we do.  Partial Dentures are removable appliances that replace multiple missing teeth.  As with complete full dentures it will take time to get adjusted to partial dentures.  Partial dentures should not be viewed as a stepping-stone to complete dentures.  With care and maintenance of teeth remaining, a partial denture can have great success.  New materials allow partial dentures to be stronger and lighter than ever.

Do you treat pregnant patients?

Pregnancy patients experience oral changes during and after pregnancy. Hormonal changes have been shown to affect the oral cavity.  Pregnancy associated gingivitis is common.  If in your first and second trimester, I urge not to have  x-rays done unless its absolutely necessary.  Cleanings are safe during all trimesters.  Other work during pregnancy needs to be on a case by case basis.  If women are in the childbearing years be sure the dentist’s staff takes caution to protect you from x-ray radiation.  Dental x-rays are not a significant source of radiation, but feel caution should always be used. After pregnancy a baby’s first dental visit should be when the first tooth comes in or at 12-18 months.  This dental visit will mainly be for mothers to ask questions, to be informed on what to expect and hygiene instructions for the infant.

Do you offer Root Canal Treatment?

When a tooth has a very large cavity that has invaded the nerve, bacteria travel down the inside of the root and cause an infection at the bottom of the root.  The only way to heal a tooth like this is to clean out the root canal of the tooth, which kills the bacteria.  Once the root canal has been cleaned out, it is filled and eventually a crown is put on the tooth to protect it. The cleaning of the canal allows the infection to heal at the bottom of the root. The crown placed on top of the root protects the tooth from fracturing and seals the tooth from bacteria getting back into the root.

What can you do about Teeth Grinding?

Get stressed and grind your teeth? Grind your teeth while you sleep? Wake up with sore facial muscles? These are all questions for a good evaluation of teeth grinding know as bruxism.  Bruxism can cause teeth to be worn, sensitive, weak, and eventually break.  If I see lots of wear on teeth, I will start to ask lots of questions to figure out what is causing it. If I feel bruxism is the case, I will suggest a night mouth guard to protect your teeth.

Do you treat Tooth Decay?

Yes, we do.  Tooth Decay (Caries, Cavities) is caused by bacterial acid production.  Bacteria turn sugar/starchy foods into acidic waste. This acid dissolves tooth enamel (the hardest element in the body).  Cavities do not hurt till they are close to the nerve, by then they are very large.  We recommend sealants to children to prevent decay. Sealants are a plastic like material that is flowed into the groves on the tops of their teeth.  Toothbrush bristles are to large to clean out these grooves we seal off.  This will prevent decay from getting in the tooth from the top, one of the most common places decay starts.

What are your thoughts about Tobacco Products?

Smoking, chewing, dipping are all very harmful to the oral cavity.  Tobacco users  have a high rate of periodontal disease.  Oral tobacco products have sugars in them, which not only hurt the gums, but cause cavities too.  I am always open to discuss and help aide in quitting.  Quitting is a difficult process that all starts with determination of wanting to quit. Click on the following links for details: www.dipstop.com, www.quitsmokeless.org, www.stopsmoking.com  

Do you offer Whitening Products?

Teeth bleaching or whitening lightens the color of teeth whether darkened from age, coffee, tea or tobacco. Its brightening effects can last up to five years after the treatment depending on your personal habits, such as smoking or drinking coffee or tea. Bleaching has a higher than 90% success rate. Bleaching is tough on stains but gentle on your teeth! Results vary depending on several factors such as teeth stained from smoking; from taking certain medications such as tetracycline during tooth development; or from fluorosis, a condition occurring in the presence of too much fluoride. Bleaching will not lighten fillings or artificial materials used in dental repair as for crowns, porcelain veneers, etc. Your dentist may discourage treatment if you have sensitive teeth, periodontal disease, teeth with worn enamel or if you're pregnant or breast-feeding.  Generally, the only side effect from treatment may be some sensitivity to hot and cold foods. If this occurs, sensitivity normally disappears within 48 hours.