With everything in the news about soda in schools, I'm sure that you know that soda is bad for your teeth and waist-line. However, did you know that sports drinks are more damaging to your teeth than soft drinks? According to a study published in General Dentistry, sports drinks, bottled lemonade, canned ice tea, and energy drinks are 11 times more decay producing than colas. The reason for this surprise is that in addition to the sugar and acids in cola, these other drinks have flavor additives like malic acid that are more aggressive at eroding the enamel of teeth.
According to Anthony Fraunhofer, PhD, the author of the study, drinking sodas and other sugary drinks "at meal times is less injurious than when consumed alone and continuous sipping is more harmful than the whole drink taken at one time." A long sugar and acid challenge is more tooth decay producing than a short one.
Do your teeth care what you eat? The answer is a definite, "Yes!" At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, we believe that good nutrition leads to healthy teeth. Visit http://www.dulski.com/eat.html to learn more healthful tips from Dr. Dulski.
Tags: Tooth Decay, Gum Disease
Monday, January 31, 2011
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Mouth, Head and Neck Examination for Oral Cancer
At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, routine mouth, head and neck examinations are performed along with a review of your medical history at every dental visit. The examination takes just a minute or two. A review of the medical history is important to proceed safely with dental treatment at your visit and assess any risk factors for the development of oral cancer.
These questions relate to the use of tobacco (smoking, chewing, snuff or other forms of smokeless tobacco) along with the frequency and the amount of alcohol consumption. Recent studies have implicated Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) as being related to tongue and throat cancer. Cancer of the lower lip is strongly related to chronic exposure to sunlight. Nutritional deficiencies including Vitamin A and Iron may be related to an increased risk of cancer.
3% of all cancers are oral cancers with a slight male predominance of about 2 to 1. Early detection of oral cancer is important because delayed diagnosis and treatment yields a diminished survival rate from an already alarming rate of approximately 50% after 5 years. At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, Dr. Dulski performs a thorough examination intended to identify abnormalities with establishment of an early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. For a free screening examination which in the case of oral cancer may prove life saving, contact us at http://www.dulski.com/cancer.html.
Tags: Dental Examination, Oral Cancer
These questions relate to the use of tobacco (smoking, chewing, snuff or other forms of smokeless tobacco) along with the frequency and the amount of alcohol consumption. Recent studies have implicated Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) as being related to tongue and throat cancer. Cancer of the lower lip is strongly related to chronic exposure to sunlight. Nutritional deficiencies including Vitamin A and Iron may be related to an increased risk of cancer.
3% of all cancers are oral cancers with a slight male predominance of about 2 to 1. Early detection of oral cancer is important because delayed diagnosis and treatment yields a diminished survival rate from an already alarming rate of approximately 50% after 5 years. At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, Dr. Dulski performs a thorough examination intended to identify abnormalities with establishment of an early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. For a free screening examination which in the case of oral cancer may prove life saving, contact us at http://www.dulski.com/cancer.html.
Tags: Dental Examination, Oral Cancer
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Posterior Composite (White) Fillings Versus Amalgam (Silver) Fillings
Composite fillings are resin-based, tooth-colored materials used to restore defects in the structure of teeth. Composites for back teeth were first introduced in the 1970's and have been increasing in popularity ever since. Composites offer many advantages over the more traditional silver-mercury metal fillings.
Composites can be placed in conservative tooth preparations resulting in preservation of the tooth strength by conserving healthy tooth structure. The use of adhesive technology to bond the composite in the crown of the tooth can replace some of the lost tooth strength due to tooth decay or fracture. The bonded composite restoration, unlike an amalgam, is sealed against leakage which prevents new tooth decay and sensitivity or damage to the deeper pulp tissue resulting in nerve sensitivity or damage requiring a root canal procedure. Composites are tooth-colored, and can be virtually invisible when properly placed. Finally, composites contain no mercury which is a health and environmental concern.
However, composites are more difficult and time-consuming to place. Moisture control is critical to the integrity and longevity of the adhesive bond and the completed composite restoration. At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, Dr. Dulski has exclusively placed composite restorations as an alternative to amalgam fillings for the last 10 years. To learn if a composite restoration is the preferred treatment for your next filling, visit us at http://www.dulski.com/amalgams.html.
Tags: Tooth-Colored Fillings, Amalgam Fillings, Composite Fillings
Composites can be placed in conservative tooth preparations resulting in preservation of the tooth strength by conserving healthy tooth structure. The use of adhesive technology to bond the composite in the crown of the tooth can replace some of the lost tooth strength due to tooth decay or fracture. The bonded composite restoration, unlike an amalgam, is sealed against leakage which prevents new tooth decay and sensitivity or damage to the deeper pulp tissue resulting in nerve sensitivity or damage requiring a root canal procedure. Composites are tooth-colored, and can be virtually invisible when properly placed. Finally, composites contain no mercury which is a health and environmental concern.
However, composites are more difficult and time-consuming to place. Moisture control is critical to the integrity and longevity of the adhesive bond and the completed composite restoration. At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, Dr. Dulski has exclusively placed composite restorations as an alternative to amalgam fillings for the last 10 years. To learn if a composite restoration is the preferred treatment for your next filling, visit us at http://www.dulski.com/amalgams.html.
Tags: Tooth-Colored Fillings, Amalgam Fillings, Composite Fillings
Risk of Tooth Decay
Tooth decay has many factors to consider when determining the risk of disease. The strongest indicator of future decay is recent or existing tooth decay, and to a lesser extent, a history of past decay as evidenced by filled or missing teeth. A diagnosis of active decay lesions indicates an active infectious process and a patient at risk for spreading tooth decay.
Other risk factors include: the presence of decay producing Streptococci and Lactobacilli bacteria; a diet high is sugar; dry mouth from drugs such as anti-depressants or systemic disease such as diabetes; inadequate brushing and flossing to remove plaque; limited fluoride exposure in drinking water or toothpaste; and gingival recession exposing vulnerable root surfaces. Any one or a combination of these factors can dramatically increase a patient's risk for tooth decay.
The management of tooth decay in adults is best managed by a program of prevention based on the assessment of risk for tooth decay. Such an approach recognizes that tooth decay is a bacterial infection and that individuals vary in their susceptibility to disease. Accordingly, prevention strategies are targeted to those individuals with specific risk indicators and regimens that address the underlying causes of disease. Here at Adult Dentistry of Rochester, Dr. Dulski custom fits each patient's preventive program to meet their specific risk areas and needs.
The goal of risk-based management of tooth decay requires, a decrease in levels of bacteria, hardening or shielding of susceptible tooth surfaces, and the limit of sugars in the diet. An effective caries risk intervention program incorporates the use of various prescription strength fluoride formulations; non-decay producing sweeteners such as Xylitol which disrupts acid production of bacteria; sealants; anti-bacterial rinses such as Clorhexidine; and, a clinical and radiographic examination and professional cleaning schedule customized to the patient's level of tooth decay risk. To schedule an appointment for a complimentary customized tooth decay risk assessment and treatment plan, visit http://www.dulski.com/.
Tags: Tooth Decay
Other risk factors include: the presence of decay producing Streptococci and Lactobacilli bacteria; a diet high is sugar; dry mouth from drugs such as anti-depressants or systemic disease such as diabetes; inadequate brushing and flossing to remove plaque; limited fluoride exposure in drinking water or toothpaste; and gingival recession exposing vulnerable root surfaces. Any one or a combination of these factors can dramatically increase a patient's risk for tooth decay.
The management of tooth decay in adults is best managed by a program of prevention based on the assessment of risk for tooth decay. Such an approach recognizes that tooth decay is a bacterial infection and that individuals vary in their susceptibility to disease. Accordingly, prevention strategies are targeted to those individuals with specific risk indicators and regimens that address the underlying causes of disease. Here at Adult Dentistry of Rochester, Dr. Dulski custom fits each patient's preventive program to meet their specific risk areas and needs.
The goal of risk-based management of tooth decay requires, a decrease in levels of bacteria, hardening or shielding of susceptible tooth surfaces, and the limit of sugars in the diet. An effective caries risk intervention program incorporates the use of various prescription strength fluoride formulations; non-decay producing sweeteners such as Xylitol which disrupts acid production of bacteria; sealants; anti-bacterial rinses such as Clorhexidine; and, a clinical and radiographic examination and professional cleaning schedule customized to the patient's level of tooth decay risk. To schedule an appointment for a complimentary customized tooth decay risk assessment and treatment plan, visit http://www.dulski.com/.
Tags: Tooth Decay
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Bad Breath
If you suffer from severe and persistent bad breath, then it is important to identify the cause to plan appropriate treatment. The possible causes of bad breath include: smoking or chewing tobacco, eating certain foods such as garlic or strong cheeses, dry mouth, and, infections. If you use tobacco, then quit. Besides a likely cause of bad breath, tobacco use can lead to cancer. Although foods cause bad breath only temporarily, once eaten they are absorbed into the bloodstream and are expelled by the breath. Cupping your hand over your mouth and sniffing your breath can give you a sign to lay-off certain foods. Saliva is nature's mouthwash. If your mouth is dry, then there is not enough saliva to wash away food particles and bacteria which can cause an unpleasant smell as the bacteria ferments retained food releasing sulfur gases. Finally, bad breath unresolved by addressing the above causes can be the result of infection either in the mouth or elsewhere in the body.
At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, Dr. Dulski takes a complete health history and performs a thorough examination to determine the best treatment for your bad breath. Using a breath analyzer that quantifies volatile sulfur compounds, the level of bad breath is measured and recorded. Typically, the best way to treat bad breath is good oral care including brushing and flossing twice daily to remove food particles and bacteria. Routine professional cleanings with the hygienist and examination by the dentist assure that no tooth decay or gum disease is a source of oral infection as a source of bad breath.
Bad breath that seems to have no other cause may indicate an infection elsewhere in the body. If you have chronic bad breath and Dr. Dulski rules out any oral problems, he will refer you to an Ear, Nose and Throat Physician for an evaluation. Bad breath can be a sign of a range of conditions including respiratory tract infections, chronic sinus infection or bronchitis, diabetes, or kidney or liver disease. Since it's important not to ignore the problem of persistent bad breath, contact us by visiting http://www.dulski.com/.
Tags: Bad Breath, Halitosis, Fresh Breath
At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, Dr. Dulski takes a complete health history and performs a thorough examination to determine the best treatment for your bad breath. Using a breath analyzer that quantifies volatile sulfur compounds, the level of bad breath is measured and recorded. Typically, the best way to treat bad breath is good oral care including brushing and flossing twice daily to remove food particles and bacteria. Routine professional cleanings with the hygienist and examination by the dentist assure that no tooth decay or gum disease is a source of oral infection as a source of bad breath.
Bad breath that seems to have no other cause may indicate an infection elsewhere in the body. If you have chronic bad breath and Dr. Dulski rules out any oral problems, he will refer you to an Ear, Nose and Throat Physician for an evaluation. Bad breath can be a sign of a range of conditions including respiratory tract infections, chronic sinus infection or bronchitis, diabetes, or kidney or liver disease. Since it's important not to ignore the problem of persistent bad breath, contact us by visiting http://www.dulski.com/.
Tags: Bad Breath, Halitosis, Fresh Breath
Monday, January 10, 2011
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is a condition that occurs when the salivary glands of the mouth cannot produce enough saliva. Symptoms include a sticky, dry feeling in the mouth and throat; bad breath; difficulty chewing, swallowing and tasting food; a bad taste in the mouth; plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth; mouth sores; and, difficulty wearing dentures.
Dry mouth can be caused by medical conditions such as diabetes and medical treatments like chemotherapy and radiation treatment to the head or neck. Most commonly, dry mouth is caused by medications which list dry mouth as a possible side effect.
Dry mouth is a serious condition because if it is not treated, it can lead to deep and widespread tooth decay. Without saliva, plaque builds up on your teeth and produces acid which dissolves the enamel causing decay. Sugared gum, candies or beverages used to ease the dryness only makes matters worse by fueling the acid production of plaque.
At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, Dr. Dulski takes a complete health history and performs a thorough examination to determine the best treatment for your dry mouth. A professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar. Decayed teeth are restored. And, we will discuss steps that you can take at home such as brushing and flossing twice a day with a prescription strength fluoride to strengthen the enamel of teeth; use of a humidifier a night to moisten tissues; avoiding caffeine, alcohol and tobacco which dry the mouth; and, using sugarless gum sweetened with Xylitol which inhibits the acid production of plaque. For proper treatment to ease dry mouth, visit us on line at http://www.dulski.com/preventive-dentistry.html.
Tags: Dry Mouth, Tooth Decay, Gum Disease
Dry mouth can be caused by medical conditions such as diabetes and medical treatments like chemotherapy and radiation treatment to the head or neck. Most commonly, dry mouth is caused by medications which list dry mouth as a possible side effect.
Dry mouth is a serious condition because if it is not treated, it can lead to deep and widespread tooth decay. Without saliva, plaque builds up on your teeth and produces acid which dissolves the enamel causing decay. Sugared gum, candies or beverages used to ease the dryness only makes matters worse by fueling the acid production of plaque.
At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, Dr. Dulski takes a complete health history and performs a thorough examination to determine the best treatment for your dry mouth. A professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar. Decayed teeth are restored. And, we will discuss steps that you can take at home such as brushing and flossing twice a day with a prescription strength fluoride to strengthen the enamel of teeth; use of a humidifier a night to moisten tissues; avoiding caffeine, alcohol and tobacco which dry the mouth; and, using sugarless gum sweetened with Xylitol which inhibits the acid production of plaque. For proper treatment to ease dry mouth, visit us on line at http://www.dulski.com/preventive-dentistry.html.
Tags: Dry Mouth, Tooth Decay, Gum Disease
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Tooth Brush Abrasion
Tooth brush abrasion is the damage that can occur to teeth and gums from improper tooth brushing. Improper tooth brushing results from using improper brushing technique or too hard a tooth brush damaging the teeth and gums. This destructive brushing causes receding gums, excessive root wear, sensitive teeth, and weaker teeth. Proper tooth brushing requires a soft tooth brush, a non-abrasive fluoride tooth paste, and a gentle brushing technique.
First, choose a soft tooth brush. A soft tooth brush is gentle on gums and more effectively removes plaque from below the gum line where gum disease starts. Tooth pastes labeled whitening or tartar control are too abrasive on teeth, gums and exposed roots. Abrasive brushing can wear away the root's protective layer causing sensitivity to hot and cold. A tooth paste labeled for sensitive teeth is non-abrasive.
Next, use proper brushing technique. Angle the bristles of the brush along the gum line at a 45 degree angle and apply just enough pressure to slide the bristles below the gum line. Jiggle the brush in small circular stokes as you move the brush along the gum line. Don't brush too hard! Pressure sufficient to hold the brush with thumb and second finger is ideal.
Finally, if you are having difficulty brushing gently, then use a power tooth brush. Soft bristles and the proper brushing stroke are built right in the device. Avoid carbonated and sugared beverages which soften teeth and make them more susceptible to tooth brush abrasion. If you need further help avoiding tooth brush abrasion, contact Dr. Dulski at Adult Dentistry of Rochester by visiting http://www.dulski.com/ to schedule an appointment for a free exam and tooth brushing instruction.
Tags: Tooth Brush Abrasion, Tooth Brushing
First, choose a soft tooth brush. A soft tooth brush is gentle on gums and more effectively removes plaque from below the gum line where gum disease starts. Tooth pastes labeled whitening or tartar control are too abrasive on teeth, gums and exposed roots. Abrasive brushing can wear away the root's protective layer causing sensitivity to hot and cold. A tooth paste labeled for sensitive teeth is non-abrasive.
Next, use proper brushing technique. Angle the bristles of the brush along the gum line at a 45 degree angle and apply just enough pressure to slide the bristles below the gum line. Jiggle the brush in small circular stokes as you move the brush along the gum line. Don't brush too hard! Pressure sufficient to hold the brush with thumb and second finger is ideal.
Finally, if you are having difficulty brushing gently, then use a power tooth brush. Soft bristles and the proper brushing stroke are built right in the device. Avoid carbonated and sugared beverages which soften teeth and make them more susceptible to tooth brush abrasion. If you need further help avoiding tooth brush abrasion, contact Dr. Dulski at Adult Dentistry of Rochester by visiting http://www.dulski.com/ to schedule an appointment for a free exam and tooth brushing instruction.
Tags: Tooth Brush Abrasion, Tooth Brushing
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