Dental News and Views

The Link Between Gum Disease and Heart Attacks

2012-01-12T05:28:00.000-08:00

Gum Disease May Relate To Heart Attack Risk

Previous studies have found that the incidence of heart disease is about twice as high in people with periodontal (gum) disease, but until recently no plausible cause had been suggested. Now studies indicate that the most common strain of bacteria in dental plaque may cause blood clots. When blood clots escape into the bloodstream, there is a relation to increased risk of heart attacks and stroke.

People with periodontal disease (over half the adult population) have an infection that causes chronic inflammation of the gums. Also, it is a path for these bacteria to enter the bloodstream. A recent study describes the association between heart disease and gum disease to be at least as strong as the linkage of heart disease to cholesterol, body weight, or smoking.

Incidence of Periodontal Disease

Unlike most diseases that give us early warning signs, gum disease progresses silently, ofter without pain. It may develop slowly or progress quite rapidly. More that half of all people over 18 years of age have at least the early stages of periodontal disease. Even more alarming, after the age of 35, three out of four people are affected to some degree. Periodontal disease is an infection that destroys the gum surrounding your teeth and also destroys the supporting bone that holds your teeth in place.

Periodontal disease may increase your risk for a variety of health concerns including: weakened immune system, diabetes, stroke, lung disease, preterm, low-birth-weight babies, kidney disease, respiratory disease, osteoporosis, gastric ulcer, and prosthetic joint complications. Evidence is mounting relating gum disease to a variety of health concerns, some that are life threatening. By keeping regular re-care appointments with your dental team, you help increase your chances for a long and happy life.

Determining Periodontal Disease

We can help you better understand periodontal disease and how you can prevent it. We will painlessly check and monitor the condition of your gums during your re-care appointments. Your examinations may show signs of infection, such as bleeding or pockets (spaces between the teeth and gums) that are deeper than normal. Dr. Dulski may suggest a course of treatment that will stop any further damage to your gums and bones. We will then design a home-care regimen for your specific needs! Even healthy looking teeth may have gum disease. Visit Adult Dentistry of Rochester for a simple exam to learn the health status of your gums.

Tags: Gum Disease, Periodontal Disease, Heart Attack, Stroke

Cracked Tooth Syndrome

2012-01-11T06:05:00.000-08:00

You may have a very common problem in one of your back teeth - a cracked tooth. Teeth may crack when subjected to the stress of chewing hard foods or ice, or by biting on an unexpected hard object, like a popcorn kernel. Teeth with or without fillings my have this problem. Teeth restored with silver fillings (dental amalgam) are most susceptible. You may realize that you have a cracked tooth if you find yourself chewing on one side of your mouth, your teeth are sensitive to hot or cold, or sweet or sour food, or you feel a sharp pain when chewing or the pain that you feel is intermittent.

Treatment For Cracked Teeth:

!) Simple Crack: The majority of cracked teeth (about 90%) can be treated by placement of a crown on the tooth. When the tooth is prepared for the crown, and a temporary crown is placed, the pain usually is alleviated. If this is the case, then the final crown can be placed to resolve the problem.

2) Complex Crack: Occasionally (about 10%), the tooth cracks into the nerve of the tooth. If pain persists after placement of a temporary crown, then the crack likely involves the nerve of the tooth. The tooth then requires root canal treatment to resolve the pain. If the crack extends beyond the nerve into the root of the tooth, then there is no hope of restoring the tooth and the tooth needs to be removed. The best hope of avoiding tooth loss is early crown treatment to strengthen and protect the tooth from a progressively deepening crack. Visit Adult Dentistry of Rochester to learn if you have cracked tooth syndrome.

Tags: Cracked Tooth Syndrome, Cracked Tooth, Dental Crown, Dental Amalgam

Periodic Oral Exam

2012-01-10T06:57:00.000-08:00

Your dentist periodic oral exam is a necessary part of your re-care appointment with your dental hygienist to help keep your teeth and gums healthy. While watching television you probably noticed that gingivitis has made it to prime-time advertising. For millions of people, the emphasis in dental visits has sifted from treatment of tooth decay to prevention of gum disease.

Have you noticed any of the early warning signs of gum disease? Do the gums bleed when you brush? Are the gums red, tender or swollen or detach from the teeth? Does pus appear from the gum-line when the gums are pressed? Have teeth become loose or shifted? Is there any change in the way that your teeth fit together when you bite? Is there any change in the fit of partial dentures? Is there chronic bad breath? Your dentist can help you with any of these problems.

In addition to the periodic oral examination of your lips, cheeks, teeth, gums, tongue and palate for suspicious tissue changes, the probing of the gums during the periodontal exam is performed specifically to detect the early signs of the progression of gum disease to bone decay or periodontal disease. Dr. Dulski introduces the periodontal examination by stating, "Probing depths of ones, twos of threes with no tenderness or bleeding indicates healthy gums. Measurements of four or more with tenderness or bleeding is a sign of infection." This gives the patient the opportunity to learn the health status of the gums as Dr. Dulski calls out the measurements for the recording of the periodontal exam. At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, our goal is early detection of periodontal disease through your periodic oral examination. Our message is, "Healthy gums don't bleed. Early detection and treatment of periodontal disease avoids tooth loss."

Tags: Periodic Oral Exam, Dentist, Periodontal Exam, Gingivitis, Periodontitis

Feeding the Foe

2012-01-03T05:03:00.000-08:00

Research proves that there is a direct correlation between sugar intake and dental plaque formation. Tooth decay and gum disease are basically caused by dental plaque, it's really just that simple.

Dental plaque is the sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on the teeth. This dental plaque is a combination of bacteria, sugars, and foods. When left on the teeth, dental plaque will turn into destructive acids. It is these acids that cause damage in the mouth through tooth decay and gum disease. If the sticky foods which contain sugar were consumed less frequently, or preferably, eliminated from the diet, then tooth decay and gum disease would decrease significantly.

For your good dental health, be on the look-out for foods that have a high nutritional value and do not include sugar. Raw fruits and vegetables are good choices as well as snack foods like tomato juice, peanuts, celery, carrots, and popcorn. Get in the habit of checking product labels for added sugar. A close look at the label will tell you whether or not it contains sugars. When checking the labels, remember that sugar may also be listed as corn syrup, sucrose or dextrose.

Sucrose is the primary villain. Sucrose or table sugar is known to contribute greatly to dental plaque formation because it is so easily metabolized by bacteria. Plaque must be on the teeth in order for tooth decay and gum disease to begin. It is true that people need sugar for energy, however it is not necessary to get it from sucrose-laden foods. There are plenty of foods that have more complex natural sugars that bacteria cannot metabolize so readily to acids in the mouth. Substitute peanuts, popcorn, cheese, and fresh fruits and vegetables for candy, cookies, pies and soft drinks.

You are in charge of your dental health on a daily basis. Success in a lifetime of great oral health depends on you. Eat a balanced diet with good control of sucrose sugar intake to help build a healthy diet. And, visit Adult Dentistry of Rochester for regular check-ups to partner with your dental hygienist for the support that will assure success.

Tags: Dental Health, Dental Plaque, Tooth Decay, Gum Disease, Dental Hygienist

Don't Ignore Your Dental Health

2011-12-08T14:11:00.000-08:00

If we haven't seen you for quite some time, this could mean serious consequences for your teeth and gums, such as eventual tooth loss or worse, major gum surgery. Many types of dental problems require continuing care; the kind of care you can only get from your dentist. Without this continuing care, the problems can progress and worsen, and this can have dangerous effects on your dental health.

                                                           Gum disease, not one is immune.

For example, did you know that gum disease is blamed for approximately 50% of all missing teeth? Did you also know that some form of gum disease affects 87% of the population? And, did you know that gum disease can be prevented with proper care?

                                                      Know the warning signs of gum disease.

Healthy gums are firm and resilient. And, even though gum disease sometimes progresses without symptoms, there are some symptoms that almost always mean a problem with gum disease.

Warning sign checklist:

* Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
* Swollen, red and tender gums
* Gums that have separated from the teeth
* Loose teeth or teeth that look long because of receding gums
* Changes in the way teeth or partial dentures fit together
* Persistent bad taste or bad breath

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important that you come in right away.
when we catch it in its early stages, gum disease can often be treated non-surgically. Remember too, that gum disease doesn't always display symptoms. If you haven't been checked in awhile, it's important that you come in so we can find any problems in their early stages.

                                                   Don't wait until you have a problem to call.

Tartar that forms on the base of your teeth and under your gums can, and will, actually pull your gums away from your teeth. This process causes pockets in the fums where diseases flourish - and become harder to get to. Your teeth will become loose, and you may eventually lose them. We use the best gum care available. It's called soft tissue management, and it's a non-surgical approach that is less costly and far less painful than having gum surgery. Gum disease doesn't have to be a fact of life. And that's the message we want to get across to you. When we're able to detect gum disease early, you won't have to suffer painful surgery or the expense of replacing lost teeth. Remember, only the trained eye of your dentist can spot problems like these in their earliest stages, and prevent pain and discomfort later.

                                                Why you should replace those missing teeth.

If you're missing one or more permanent teeth, those empty spaces can lead to serious problems affecting your entire mouth. A lot of people think, "If it doesn't show, it doesn't matter." This is not true, however, because teeth are designed to support each other.   When a tooth is missing, adjoining teeth tend to move toward the open space to fill it in. In addition to serious bite problems, this tooth movement can contribute to cavities and gum diseases, and often results in even more teeth being lost. While our main goal is to prevent the loss of teeth, there are things we can do to replace them and prevent further problems. But, we can't help if you don't come in.

Now you can see what I see

Thanks to revolutionary advances in dentistry, new technology has made it possible for you to see the same things that I see when you come in for a check-up. We offer intra-oral video imaging. It looks like a wand with a light tip. That light is a video camera that magnifies the inside of your mouth and projects the image on a monitor. But what does all this mean to you? It means that when I talk about plaque and gum disease, you'll be able to see it. That may sound a little gruesome, but it will help you understand how important good dental hygiene and regular cleanings are to your teeth and gums.

Please call us for an all important exam.

Don't rely on your own eyes to spot problems. Or on your own judgement to diagnose conditions. Again, it takes training to spot most tooth and gum problems in their earliest stages. Remember: Only a dental professional can see many problems and know how to treat them. Before you have a problem that needs extensive care, visit the professionals at Adult Dentistry of Rochester. Preventive care is your best defense against tooth and gum decay, not to mention possible surgery.

Tags: Gum Disease, Tooth Decay, Intra-Oral Camera

Why Be Concerned About High Blood Pressure?

2011-12-05T15:25:00.000-08:00

Blood pressure is the amount of force that the blood exerts on the walls of the blood vessels as it passes through smaller and smaller branches to all parts of the body. The branches of the circulatory system eventually reach the organs where abnormally high blood pressure can harm the smaller branches of the circulatory tree. The body structures that chronically high blood pressure (hypertension) affects the most include the heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes. The diseases resulting from blood vessel damage in these organs are congestive heart failure, stroke, blindness, heart attack, and kidney failure.

For example, high blood pressure is a factor in 2/3rds of strokes, 2/3rds of heart attack, 3/4ths of heart failure, and 1/4th of kidney failure. High blood pressure is also a factor in Alzheimer's Disease. Many people do not have symptoms of high blood pressure until blood vessel damage in these organs causes disease, so the conditions in the early stages when these diseases could be prevented are ignored because there is no discomfort. Getting high blood pressure under control at an early stage can add years to a person's life. At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, we routinely check your blood pressure. Visit us to learn your blood pressure, what it means to your health, and what life style changes can improve your blood pressure and quality of life.

Tags: High Blood Pressure, Hypertension, High Blood Pressure

Esthetic Management of Extractions

2011-11-18T16:10:00.000-08:00

Tooth extraction typically leads to loss of tooth-bone width and height leading to a less than attractive tooth replacement with a dental implant. Studies show that tooth-bone preservation using Freeze Dried Bone Allograft (FDBA) and a collagen membrane improves tooth-bone height and width dimensions when compared to extractions alone. These dimensions retain the normal architecture of the tooth-bone for a more natural-appearing implant placement, especially in the smile zone.

These techniques improve both the quality and quantity of bone available to support the implant increasing the chance of implant success. Tooth implants are the most natural way to replace a lost tooth. For a free consultation to learn how these restorative procedures can restore your smile to its natural beauty, visit Adult Dentistry of Rochester.

Tags: Tooth Extraction, Dental Implants

Stop Bad Breath

2011-10-27T07:00:00.000-07:00

Chronic bad breath is a problem for millions of Americans. The American Dental Association recently did a survey that showed that over 90% of dentists see patients with bad breath.

Is there really a solution? Not when people use mouthwashes and mints to mask the odor. Many mouthwashes contain alcohol which worsens the condition by drying the mouth and mints are candy which promote tooth decay. To provide a real solution, one must investigate the causes of bad breath and eliminate them. At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, Dr. Dulski provides bad breath diagnosis and treatment in a comprehensive way. While transient bad breath caused by garlic, foods or burping is mainly a social problem, chronic bad breath can be an indicator of a health problem.

Anatomically speaking, the mouth is the dominant source of chronic bad breath, followed by the sinuses, lungs and in very rare cases, the stomach. Chronic bad breath is primarily caused by dying bacteria in the mouth and gums that give off sulfur based gases called Volatile Sulfur Compounds. The higher the number of bacteria present, the more dying bacteria there are generating these gases.

People try all kinds of breath tests to learn if they have this embarrassing condition. You may have tried to sniff a puff of your breath in your hand, or risked asking family or friends. However, the best test is asking your dentist.

Today, we know more about diagnosing and treating bad breath than ever before. Our professional dental team is equipped with the knowledge and equipment to provide you with effective programs to help you restore your sparkling fresh breath. We can determine the source of odor in the oral cavity by determining the health of the gums. Gum disease, or gingivitis is caused by the same bacteria that can cause bad breath. Another major source is the tongue which collects a coating on its surface that harbors bacteria. We can prescribe specialized aids that help in removing bacteria along the gums and on the tongue, as well as a mouth rinse that chemically neutralizes the odor in the mouth.

Got bad breath? Don't be the last to find out! You either have bad breath and don't know it, suspect you have bad breath, or want assurance that your breath will always be fresh and clean. Visit Adult Dentistry of Rochester to take the steps necessary fora sparkling fresh breath every day..

Tags: Bad Breath, Fresh Breath, Gum Disease, Gingivitis

What Every Person Needs to Know About Dental Care

2011-10-26T11:35:00.000-07:00

Teeth are meant to last a lifetime. Dentures are not a replacement for missing teeth in fit, comfort and appearance.

Fillings, veneers, crowns do not replace lost enamel. Enamel, in a healthy mouth, can last the life of the individual. Restorations, at best, are a short term substitute for lost enamel, needing to be replaced many times over a lifetime. The average life of a restoration is 8 to 10 years.

Advanced, tooth colored materials not only look better and feel better, they last longer. Newer composites and porcelains better mimic the expansion and contraction of the tooth due to hot and cold. The result is a restoration that does not shrink away from the tooth to create a gap or split the tooth.

Remember, enamel in a healthy mouth can last a lifetime. And, consider that without gaps or cracks, a better fitting restoration makes for a healthy mouth. Therefore, advanced restorations can last longer because they make for a healthier mouth.

The healthier the mouth, the longer lasting the natural and restored tooth. You can't reduce the cost of dental restorations, but you can reduce the cost of dental care to keep teeth for a lifetime by reducing the need for restorations and making restorations last longer.

Now, gums reflect the health of the mouth. Healthy gums are not red, tender or swollen. By measuring and scoring the health of gums, the effectiveness of teeth cleaning can be reported to optimize the result. Optimal teeth cleaning means a healthier mouth and longer lasting restorations.

Straight teeth are easier to clean and therefore cleaner. Crooked teeth are crowded or have gaps which are hard to clean areas. Straight teeth are healthier teeth and therefore last longer.

Straight, natural teeth are healthier than crooked teeth which are healthier than missing teeth. Straight, clean (white) teeth are a sign of healthy teeth which is physically attractive. Visit Adult Dentistry of Rochester for advanced dental care which conserves natural teeth in a straight, healthy environment for a lifetime of health and beauty.

Tags: Dentures, Fillings, Veneers, Crowns, Straight Teeth, Teeth Cleaning

Are You Neglecting Your Teeth?

2011-10-26T08:03:00.000-07:00

Fear, expense and inconvenience are the three dragons that keep half of the population from seeking more that emergency dental care until the pain of an emergency is unbearable. Afraid of the dentist? It's normal! At Adult Dentistry of Rochester we can help! We're absolutely dedicated to providing your family's dental care as comfortably as is modernly possible. We welcome cowards. Besides explaining the procedures before performing them and using a very gentle touch, we have nitrous oxide sedation available. Or if you prefer, we can write a prescription for a sedative or tranquilizer for you to take one hour before your appointment.

Nitrous oxide is a sedative gas that you breathe through a small mask over your nose. The relaxed and dissociated feeling disappears soon after the gas is turned off. You can drive back to your home or office responsibilities right away. However, if you prefer a deeper level of sedation, conscious oral sedation administers oral medication along with nitrous oxide. You must know that the effects of this combination lasts longer than nitrous oxide alone, so someone must drive you home.

Previously, your comfort during dental treatment was limited to local anesthesia and nitrous oxide. Now, we use vibratory anesthesia to assist your comfort during the injection process.

Afraid of the cost? Postponing needed dental care can result in more extensive and expensive procedures during a time that is most inconvenient to you. If you are postponing needed dental care because of finances, flexible payment plans, including interest free financing for 12 months will take the fear out of dental expense.

Afraid to take the time? The total cost of dental care is the fee plus the cost of your time away from home or office. To minimize the real cost of dental care, the flexible hours of early morning and evening hours minimize interference with your busy schedule. Visit Adult Dentistry of Rochester to learn how we tame these three dragons to help you receive the dental care you deserve.

Tags: Nitrous Oxide Sedation, Conscious Oral Sedation, Flexible Payment Plans, Flexible Hours

Infection Control in the Dental Office

2011-10-25T14:53:00.000-07:00

In this era of public concern and media coverage about infectious diseases, such as hepatitis B and acquired immuno-deficiency syndrome (AIDS), you should be aware that at Adult Dentistry of Rochester, we use numerous infection control procedures to prevent transmission of infectious diseases in our dental office.

Universal Precautions

You may be surprised to learn that the most frequently performed procedures in our office are not six month check-ups or even filling cavities, the most common procedures are designed to accomplish good infection control with every patient. This is called applying "universal precautions," infection control measures that are the same for every patient. These include: wearing gloves;, changing gloves and washing hands between patients; using instruments and other items that can be thrown out after use; and sterilizing equipment that can be reused.

What We Do

Before you enter the treatment room, the dental unit and chair are cleaned and disinfected with antimicrobial chemicals. All dental instruments are either sterilized or disinfected, as appropriate for the type of material. Most instruments can stand high heat. These are first ultrasonically cleaned and then sterilized by steam heat in an autoclave. Those few instruments that cannot be heat sterilized or disposed of after use are first cleaned and then disinfected with special high level chemical sterilizers. Both methods are approved by the Center for Disease Control and the American Dental Association (ADA).

Sterilization of Dental Hand-Pieces

For years, the ADA has recommended the heat sterilization of dental hand-pieces (dental drills) for equipment that can withstand repeated heat cycles. Modern technology has now made it possible to sterilize all re-usable hand-pieces. At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, all of our dental instruments and hand-pieces are cleaned, lubricated, and heat sterilized between each patient use.

Check-List for Patients

We care about the health and well-being of all of our patients and employees. To prove this for yourself, use the following check-list the next time you visit Adult Dentistry of Rochester and note how we perform each item:
* washing hands and changing gloves
* appropriate disinfection of surfaces and sterilization of equipment
* keeping office spotlessly clean
* using disposable items
* wearing protective clothing
* providing wrapped, sterile instrument for surgical procedures
* properly cleaning and sterilizing dental hand-pieces
* proper disposal of infectious waste

Safety is our concern. We take the responsibility of treating you and your family seriously. If you have any question, please do not hesitate to talk with Dr. Dulski or any member of the staff at your next visit or contact us at Adult Dentistry of Rochester.

Tags: Infection Control, Sterilizing Dental Hand-Pieces, Universal Precautions

Optimizing Your Dental Insurance Benefits

2011-10-24T06:58:00.000-07:00

Now is the time to plan for the completion of your dental treatment before the end of the year. All insurance plans have a yearly maximum. If you do not use this maximum amount, the remainder is lost.

If you have already met your deductible, and you have treatment to be completed, or to be started, then take advantage of your benefits this year. If necessary, we can use the maximum allowed this year, and complete the treatment next year with next year's allowance.

Good planning will allow you to take advantage of the full benefit of your policy. Please do not wait until the last few days of the year, when scheduling will make it difficult to appoint a convenient time for you.

At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, our goal is to provide you with quality dental services. If we can help you maximize your dental insurance coverage in the process, we will be very pleased. Visit Adult Dentistry of Rochester or give us a call at 585-442-1230 to schedule an appointment today!

Tags: Dental Insurance

Effective Pain Control

2011-10-11T06:42:00.000-07:00

At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, effective pain control is one of the most important aspects of patient care. Researching the dental history of new patients, Dr. Dulski asks the question, "Have you ever had a bad experience in a dental office?" He found the most common response is difficulty getting numb. The failure to completely numb a tooth prior to a dental procedure is the most serious difficulty facing patients in the dental office and is the patient's greatest fear.

This is a particular problem when teeth are abscessed and the lower molar is involved. The reason for this is the change in tissue chemistry caused by the infection making the anesthesia less effective on the nerve fiber and the increased density of the bone in the lower jaw making the penetration of the anesthetic solution through tissue to the underlying nerve more difficult. Numbing an upper tooth by depositing solution in the tissues next to the root of the tooth is sufficient to allow the solution to infiltrate to the nerve to stop the transmission of pain signals effectively numbing the tooth. Because of the thicker bone in the lower jaw preventing this infiltration, an injection is given more deeply in the tissue before the nerve enters the bone. And here is where the difficulty arises. Failure rates for this type of block injection versus an infiltration injection are caused by the absence of landmarks to help a dentist locate the proper site to deposit the anesthetic solution deeply in tissue. It is many times more difficult to deposit solution next to an elusive nerve in the back of the mouth than next to the roots of a visible tooth, thus, the higher failure rates for consistently completely numbing a lower tooth.

This difficulty in providing consistently reliable numbness for a lower tooth can be frustrating for most dentists. The term "mandibular slump" accurately describes the problem faced by dentists, when for no apparent reason, they endure periods of almost absolute failure when performing a mandibular block injection. Patients whose dentist were able to successfully numb their lower teeth now have to undergo multiple injection or suffer through incomplete numbness. The problem soon may become psychological, leading the dentist to doubt his abilities.

At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, we specialize in completely numbing patients who have had difficulty in the past and manage the associated anxiety of dental care with sedation. Dr. Dulski uses alternative injection techniques and devices to the traditional mandibular block injection should that prove necessary to completely numb lower teeth prior to dental procedures. Visit Adult Dentistry of Rochester to learn how we focus exclusively on your comfort, and assure that you are fully relaxed and anxiety-free. Dr. Dulski is committed to not even attempting a procedure unless you are 100% comfortably numb while in his care.

Tags: Pain Control, Mandibular Block Injection

The Problem With Dentures

2011-10-06T08:01:00.000-07:00

Some people believe that their dental problems will be solved if they have their teeth removed and get dentures. However, as many denture wearers have found, this is just the beginning of a new set of problems. Some of these problems include difficulty eating and tasting food, gagging, sore spots, loss of jaw bone, the need for ongoing denture adjustments and fabrication of new dentures to replace worn dentures, and changes in facial appearance.

Eating takes longer with dentures because you can only apply a fraction of the biting pressure that you can apply with natural teeth. This makes many foods more difficult to eat, particular high fiber foods like fruits and vegetables which are essential for good nutrition. Tasting foods is also a problem, particularly with upper dentures which cover the taste buds on the palate. Gagging is also a problem because many people gag when the back of the palate is touched making the upper denture difficult to wear.

Sore spots occur from the transmission of biting pressure from the denture to the tender gum tissue pinched between the base of the denture and the bone beneath the denture. Gum tissue was never meant to assume the role of chewing that the hard tissue of the teeth was designed to support. The most serious problem is the loss of jaw bone from the pressure of the denture on tissue. Natural teeth are suspended in a ligament that applies tension to bone during chewing to stimulate the growth of bone. Without teeth, the direct pressure applied to bone by a denture causes the recession of bone. After many months of denture wear and bone recession, the denture will need to be relined. After many years of wear and refitting, the dentures will need to be replaced with a new set.

Bone recession and ill-fitting dentures is a particular problem with the lower denture. The rim of bone supporting the lower denture is narrower to begin with. The lower jaw moves during chewing and speaking and the tongue moves through the middle of the denture.

The loss of jaw bone also changes your appearance. Your nose gets closer to your chin and your lips lose support of the teeth and gums and collapse. This causes wrinkles and makes you look older. When you add up all the costs, dentures can be more expensive than the cost of treatment to save your natural teeth. The cost of dentures include removing your teeth, making the dentures and the periodic relines and cost of new dentures every 8 - 10 years.

For all these reasons, Dr. Dulski recommends that you choose treatment to keep all of your natural teeth. You will look better, feel better and be more confident. Visit Adult Dentistry of Rochester to learn how we can help you keep your natural smile.

Tags: Dentures, Preventive Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry

Controlling Chronic Inflammation

2011-10-03T08:23:00.000-07:00

Inflammation is from the Latin, inflammare, which means to set on fire and is part of the bodies response to disease causing bacteria and toxins. The body initiates healing from an injury like a cut with a reaction that produces red, tender and swollen tissue. This reaction allows healing cells from the blood stream to infiltrate the injured tissue to kill bacteria, remove damaged cells and grow new tissue. The inflammation of the typical healing process is temporary.

It is when inflammation is not quickly resolved with healing that local inflammatory factors can spread throughout the whole body. Inflammation can then become a wildfire that spreads out of control causing tissue destruction distant to the site of the original infection. This chronic inflammation can result in atherosclerosis, the blood vessel disease of heart attacks and stokes. Evidence of chronic inflammation in the mouth is the red, tender and swollen gums of periodontal disease. The earliest and easiest stage of periodontal disease to treat is gingivitis.

That's why your routine dental check-ups and cleanings are so important - not just for the health of your teeth and gums, but for your general health. Visit Adult Dentistry of Rochester for your next periodic dental check-up and cleaning where we check the health of the gums with a complete periodontal exam at every visit and thoroughly remove the deposits of bacterial plaque which fuel the fire of gingival inflamation.

Tags: Periodontal Disease, Gingivitis, Periodontal Exam

Periodontal Maintenance

2011-09-27T09:53:00.000-07:00

A routine oral prophylaxis (routine teeth cleaning) includes scaling or polishing procedures to remove plaque, calculus and stains from the crowns of teeth. A routine cleaning is performed on healthy tissue or in the presence of inflammation, gingivitis, the response of healthy tissue to the toxic deposits of bacterial plaque and calculus. A routine cleaning is performed every 3,4 or 6 months to maintain healthy gums or reverse a gingivitis to return the mouth to health.

Periodontal maintenance is initiated following the treatment of periodontal disease, the loss of tooth support to gum and bone decay resulting in unsupported and exposed root surfaces. Periodontal maintenance includes the removal of bacterial plaque and calculus from the crowns and exposed root surfaces of teeth above the gum-line and deposits on the root surfaces of teeth below the gum-line. Periodontal maintenance is performed every 3 months to prevent the progression of periodontal disease.

Once tooth support has been lost, it cannot be restored. Tooth loss in periodontal patients has been shown in studies to be inversely proportional to the frequency of periodontal maintenance. Ten years following completion of periodontal therapy, patients who had received periodontal maintenance had significantly less progressive gum and bone decay and reduced tooth loss compared to patients who had not received periodontal maintenance. In fact, numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of periodontal maintenance and have shown that progressive periodontitis can be prevented or limited by optimal personal oral hygiene and thorough periodontal maintenance. Since patients are rarely completely effective in removing plaque at home, 3 month periodontal maintenance eliminates or reduces the toxic effects of bacterial plaque on teeth and supporting tissues.

Patients with a history of periodontitis require continuing periodontal maintenance since brushing and flossing alone has not been shown to control the progression of attachment loss. Occasionally, despite the best efforts of the dentist and hygienist, some patients may suffer tooth loss despite continuous periodontal maintenance. Additional diagnostic information, such as microbial and genetic testing, as well as antimicrobial therapy and periodontal surgery my be required for these patients. For a free periodontal exam which includes an update of your medical and dental histories, extra-oral and intra-oral soft tissue examination, dental examination, periodontal evaluation, implant evaluation, and radiographic review, visit Adult Dentistry of Rochester.

Tags: Oral Prophylaxis, Periodontal Maintenance, Teeth Cleaning, Periodontal Disease, Gingivitis, Gum Disease

Are You At Risk For Periodontal Disease?

2011-09-01T14:26:00.000-07:00

There are several factors that increase the risk of periodontal disease, an infection that causes decay in the gum and bone supporting teeth. These risk factors are:

Smoking or chewing tobacco - not only is periodontal disease more prevalent in smokers, periodontal treatment is less successful in those individuals who smoke.

Diseases that affect the whole body - such as diabetes, blood cell disorders, and, HIV-AIDS are among the diseases that can lower resistance to infection, making periodontal disease more likely and severe.

Medications - steroids, anti-seizure drugs, cancer therapy drugs, blood pressure drugs and birth control pills - can affect the gums. Some of these medications have the side effect of reducing salivary flow which lowers the cleansing and buffering effect of saliva resulting in increased plaque accumulation and acid attack which causes tooth decay and gum disease.

Teens, pregnant women, and those taking birth control pills face changes in the body's hormone levels which can cause the gum tissue to be more inflamed by the toxins in bacterial plaque.

Genes play a role. Some patients may have a gene that causes the gums to become more inflamed in response to bacterial plaque. The result is more severe and rapid progression of periodontal disease. If your parents wear dentures or you have a family history of tooth loss due to gum disease, then you may carry this gene.

The specific types of bacteria that cause periodontal disease are passed from mother to children due to the intimate physical contact of child rearing, or between partners through the saliva. You help your children avoid gum disease by taking care of your own oral health. Some parents mistakenly think that they are caring for their children by neglecting their own health. For a free periodontal exam and consultation with Dr. Dulski to assess your risk for periodontal disease, visit Adult Dentistry of Rochester.

Tags: Periodontal Disease, Gum Disease

Dental Care For Senior Adults

2011-08-09T16:09:00.000-07:00

As we age, we notice graying hair, more frequent aches and pains and wrinkles. Our teeth and mouths are also affected by aging.

Dental cavities are not just for kids. As we age, receding gums can expose the unprotected root surfaces of teeth resulting in root cavities. Many seniors also have a number of old fillings. On average, fillings last 8 - 10 years. As fillings age, leakage and decay is a common problem.

Gum disease is the major reason for tooth loss in adults of all ages. Infected gums if left untreated slowly detach from the teeth. Deepening infection can involve the underlying bone resulting in bone decay. Eventually the teeth loosen and are lost. Some medical diseases, certain medications, dentures and bridges that don't fit properly, poor diets and poor oral hygiene can increase the severity of gum disease.

Dr. Dulski believes that every tooth in your mouth plays an important role in speaking, chewing and maintaining proper alignment of other teeth. Tooth loss is not an inevitable result of aging, but if you do lose teeth, they should be replaced for your mouth the function properly.

If most of the teeth are missing, a partial denture or complete denture can restore the mouth to function and improve appearance and restore personal self-esteem. A more natural option to replacing lost teeth in terms of fit, comfort and appearance is dental implants. Dental implants attach directly to the jawbone. Not everyone is a candidate for dental implants because the patient must be in good general and oral health and have adequate jawbone remaining to secure the dental implant. Dr. Dulski will advise you if this is an option for you.

What can you do to prevent dental problems? Sugars and starches are changed by bacteria in plaque to acids which attack tooth enamel. Limiting the number of times you snack along with brushing and flossing daily can help save your teeth from tooth decay. Studies show that fluoride is just as effective in preventing tooth cavities in adult as it is in children. Toothpastes containing fluoride can help reduce tooth decay even more that brushing and flossing alone.

Regular dental check-ups are important for seniors, whether or not they have their natural teeth. Besides evaluating and treating existing dental problems, Dr. Dulski also looks for more serious health problems such as oral cancer. The majority of oral cancers occur in people older than 45 years of age. Symptoms of oral cancer include sores, swelling or discoloration of the tongue, lips, cheek, throat, jawbone or salivary glands. If you notice any of these symptoms, call Dr. Dulski immediately for a examination.

Aging also yellows teeth. A number of cosmetic dental procedures can improve your smile. Bleaching can whiten stained teeth, bonding and porcelain veneers can cover stains, restore chipped teeth, close gaps or reshape malformed teeth. Visit Adult Dentistry of Rochester to learn how Dr. Dulski can keep you smiling for years to come.

Tags: Dental Cavities, Gum Disease, Partial Dentures, Complete Dentures, Dental Implants, Oral Cancer, Porcelain Veneers

The Early Warning Signs of Periodontal Disease

2011-08-08T11:50:00.000-07:00

Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the gums and bone caused in part by dental plaque, the soft and sticky substance that forms on the teeth. It is estimated to affect 4 out of every 5 people. If the plaque is allowed to remain and grow on the teeth, an inflammation of the gums called gingivitis occurs. As the disease progresses, the pockets infected with bacteria deepen by the decay of bone which holds the teeth in the mouth. This bone decay if left untreated results in the loss of teeth. Periodontal disease may progress painlessly and without warning until it is too late to save the teeth. Periodontal disease usually progresses slowly, but can have episodes of rapid progression. With this in mind, please be aware of the following signs and symptoms:

* Gums that bleed when you brush your teeth
* Gums that are red, tender and swollen
* Gaps forming between the teeth and gums
* Teeth that are loose
* Gaps forming between the teeth
* Changes in the bite
* Changes in the fit of a partial denture
* Pus between your teeth and gums
* Chronic bad breath or bad taste

If you or anyone you know is experiencing these symptoms, visit Dr. Dulski at Adult Dentistry of Rochester for a free exam and consultation.

Tags: Periodontal Disease, Gingivitis, Dental Plaque, Bad Breath

Evidence Based Periodontal Treatment

2011-07-28T13:09:00.000-07:00

At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, we do a periodontal examination at every oral health examination. With the new information on the association of periodontal disease and systemic diseases, Dr. Dulski puts a lot of emphasis on assuring that the gums are healthy. So, we routinely screen for the early warning signs of gum disease for all patients at the re-care visits with the hygienist.

We examine the gums with a blunt-end measuring device called a periodontal probe. Any bleeding during probing means that there is an infection in the gums. The infection is caused by bacteria. Any probe readings greater than three indicates the tender, red, swollen gums of disease. Larger numbers mean that the gum disease has spread from the gums to the supporting bone around the tooth and that the bone is beginning to deteriorate in that area.

Readings of ones, twos or threes with no bleeding indicates healthy gums. Two or three bleeding points with a reading of four indicates a local gum infection and commands special attention by the hygienist at the cleaning appointment. Special brushing and flossing instructions and a re-evaluation on a six month re-care schedule follows. Six or eight bleeding points indicate a more generalized gum infection called gingivitis and more intense hygiene therapy and a three month re-care schedule with the hygienist. Persistent gum infection can cause gum decay which can progress to the bone resulting in a condition called periodontitis. A persistent gum and bone cavity with a reading of five requires teeth scaling to remove root deposits of toxic plaque and tartar and disinfection of the site with an antimicrobial such as Arestin to promote healing. Healing and maintenance is closely monitored at three month re-care appointments with the hygienist.

Ultrasonic teeth scaling is one of the most effective procedures for removing plaque and tartar from the teeth. An ultrasonic scaler consists of a small wand that produces a gentle vibration and flow of water. As the tip moves along the tooth surface, its vibrations break up the plaque and tartar. These vibrations also cause millions of microscopic bubbles to form in the water. When the bubbles collapse, the energy that is released helps to dislodge the toxic deposits of plaque and tartar.. Ultrasonic teeth scaling can be more comfortable than using manual teeth scalers because the tip is extremely small and the action more gentle to the gums. In addition, we add an antibacterial solution, Peridex, to help disinfect the tissues to aid healing.

Arestin is used together with teeth scaling to kill the bacteria that cause gum decay. This is a cartridge filled with Arestin, an antibiotic in powder form. After scaling, we apply the powder to your periodontal pocket where it combines with the moisture in the pocket and adheres immediately to the infected gum tissue. The individual powder particles release a steady flow of the active ingredient, minocycline, a potent antibiotic. The medication helps fight your infection for 21 days. You should know that scaling and Arestin are not a cure for periodontal disease. Once bone is lost, no amount of medication will bring it back. And for periodontal therapy to be successful, you will need to be very thorough with your home care and continuous with your re-care schedule. Visit www.dulski.com for a free periodontal exam and recommendations for a periodontal therapy and re-care schedule designed to help you keep your healthy, beautiful smile.

Tags: Periodontal Exam, Periodontal Disease, Gum Disease, Hygienist, Periodontitis, Arestin, Periodontal Therapy, Ultrasonic Teeth Scaliing

Is Your Swimming Pool Safe for Your Teeth?

2011-07-11T10:39:00.000-07:00

This summer, many people will escape the heat with a dip in their backyard pool. However, researchers warn about the dangers of improper pool maintenance and enamel erosion.

"Improperly maintained pool chlorination in swimming pools can cause rapid and excessive erosion of dental enamel," says Dr. Leila Jahangiri , clinical associate professor and chair of the Department of Prosthodontics at the New York University College of Dentistry. "It is a difficult balance to maintain pools properly, and proper pool chlorine and pH levels need to be monitored and maintained on a weekly basis. If chemical levels are not properly maintained, pool water contact with teeth can cause serious enamel erosion."

Case studies show that serious enamel erosion occurs when the pH of the water ranges between 2.7 or acidic and 7.0 or neutral. The more acidic the water and the longer the exposure to the acidity of the water, the more likely the erosion of the enamel. The signs and symptoms of tooth erosion include teeth discoloration and tooth sensitivity. As the white enamel that protects the teeth is eroded away, the underlying dentin, the softer, yellow and sensitive part of the tooth, is exposed, making the teeth appear more yellow and feel more sensitive. If you notice any of these changes and swim frequently, visit Dr. Dulski at Adult Dentistry of Rochester for a free exam and consultation to learn how to minimize and repair the damage.

Tags: Enamel Erosion, Tooth Sensitivity

The Problem With Amalgam (Silver) Fillings

2011-06-22T12:39:00.000-07:00

The mouth in its ideal form is free of signs of decay and disease. Unfortunately, often our mouths can appear less than ideal with unsightly dark silver fillings. Now, there is a new kind of restoration available called composite fillings that replace dark silver fillings to make your mouth look natural and beautiful again.

In the past, when an old filling wore out or failed with new decay, the only option was to have another silver filling. Unfortunately, silver fillings have several disadvantages. First, with time, the edges of the fillings deteriorate and break through a process called metal fatigue. When a filling breaks, it no longer seals the tooth and tooth decay begins again. Second, silver fillings just fill holes. They don't add strength to decayed teeth. And, when they age, they expand which can further weaken and crack the remaining tooth structure. The result is tooth fracture which can result in the need for a crown to seal and protect the tooth. Finally, silver fillings cause unsightly metal stains of the teeth and gums.

With advances in materials and techniques, we now have a material that avoids these problems - composite fillings. Composite fillings are tooth colored acrylics that are adhesively applied to the teeth in a process called bonding. Composites not only look natural, they actually restore strength to the tooth while sealing and protecting the tooth. For strong and natural looking teeth, Dr. Dulski uses composites exclusively as filling material at Adult Dentistry of Rochester. For a free exam and consultation to discuss your alternative to silver fillings, visit http://www.dulski.com/.

Tags: Amalgam Fillings, Silver Fillings, Composite Fillings, Crowns

Common Questions About Porcelain Veneers

2011-06-06T10:09:00.000-07:00

In an interview with Dr. Dulski about porcelain veneers, Ms. Deborah Jeanne Sergeant of In Good Health asks:

Ms. Sergeant: What are the benefits that porcelain veneers offer?
Dr. Dulski: How we perceive our smile and appearance affects our self-esteem, our moods and how we function in social and business relationships. Common conditions that impact negatively on your smile include broken, cracked or worn teeth, discolored teeth, missing teth, crooked teeth, gaps between your teeth and/or "gummy smiles." Ceramic restoration is the most durable and life-like way to replace damaged or lost enamel. Veneers are more conservative of healthy tooth structure than full-coverage ceramic crowns.

Ms. Sergeant: What are the risks involved?
Dr. Dulski: As with any dental material that is used to restore teeth, there is limited useful life of the material. Worn material requires replacement over time. Consider a non-invasive procedure like orthodontics to close gaps to straighten teeth if the enamel is healthy and attractive.

Ms. Sergeant: I've read that sometimes part of the tooth is ground off before a veneer is applied. Wouldn't that harm the enamel?
Dr. Dulski: The tooth is only as strong as the original tooth structure. Healthy, intact enamel is necessary for a strong tooth that can chew comfortably and resist fracture. Veneers are the most conservative replacement for damaged or lost enamel. Thin veneers are the most conservative enhancement for unattractive enamel.

Ms. Sergeant: Can debris get trapped between tooth and veneer thus endangering the tooth?
Dr. Dulski: Porcelain veneers are bonded to the tooth using adhesive resins that seal out decay. Daily brushing and flossing are necessary to remove plaque, a film of bacteria that can build up on both natural and veneered teeth along the gum line.

Ms. Sergeant: How long do veneers last?
Dr. Dulski: Veneers, like crowns, last an average of 8 - 12 years. Frequent visits with your dental hygiene coach, the hygienist, can help you prolong the life of your porcelain restorations.

Ms. Sergeant: Once a veneer is applied, must the person have veneers for life?
Dr. Dulski: Once enamel is removed, it cannot be replaced with anything as long-lasting. Bonding damaged, lost or unattractive enamel with porcelain with the goal of preserving tooth structure is a reality today.

At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, Dr. Dulski supports the desirability of placing more conservative restorations to realize the financial and longevity benefits offered by more conservative restorative dentistry. Visit www.dulski.com to learn how contemporary methods give us the tools to give you a gorgeous, bright smile with minimally invasive treatments and fewer repeat visits.

Tags: Porcelain Veneers, Conservative Restorative Dentistry, Dental Bonding

Preventive Dentistry

2011-05-26T06:38:00.000-07:00

Preventive dentistry is a philosophy that takes advantage of the latest technology and techniques to help keep your teeth healthy and beautiful. The principles of preventive dentistry are to prevent tooth decay, detect and treat decay as early as possible, preserve the maximum amount of tooth structure, and restore your teeth comfortably with tooth-colored materials. These same principles of early detection and treatment to preserve supporting tissue also apply to gum disease to prevent tooth loss.

As a first step, we'll talk with you about your diet, home care routine, and health history to help you lower your risk for tooth decay. If you are at high risk, we may recommend special fluoride tooth paste, mouth rinses, sealants, or other treatments to help prevent decay. We'll also perform a thorough examination. And, if we suspect that the decay has already begun, we will use extremely small instruments to remove the decay in the pits and grooves or in-between areas of teeth where decay begins. Fortunately, these methods are gentle on teeth.

If teeth are at risk of decay, we may place sealants on the biting surfaces of teeth to prevent future damage. If teeth are already decayed, then we will remove the decay and bond in a small tooth-colored filling to protect and restore the tooth. At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, preventive dentistry techniques allow us to detect problems early and help you keep your healthy, beautiful smile. We invite you to visit http://www.dulski.com/ for a free comprehensive exam. We think this is the best way for you to get acquainted with our advanced, comfort-conscience,

Tags: Preventive Dentistry, Dental Sealants, Tooth-Colored Fillings, Dental Bonding, Diet and Risk of Tooth Decay

Seven Factors You Can't Ignore

2011-05-19T10:11:00.000-07:00

Gum disease is a chronic bacterial infection that triggers an inflammatory response in your body and can lead to tooth loss. Scientists believe that this inflammatory process my be linked to other inflammatory diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and Alzheimer's disease. The incidence of gum disease effects over 50% of the adult population. There are seven factors that could make you vulnerable to developing gum disease:

1) Tobacco and Alcohol. Smoking or chewing tobacco and drinking alcohol are leading causes of gum disease and can lead to oral cancer. Doing both could put you at 15 times greater risk that others.
2) Genetic Susceptibility. About 30% of the population inherits the tendency to be six times more at risk for gum disease.
3) Hormonal Changes. Life stages that bring natural changes in hormone levels include puberty, pregnancy, menopause, and andropause.
4) Stress. Stress can make it more difficult for you to fight off oral and other infections.
5) Diabetes. Diabetics are at higher risk for infections including gum diseases which can make it more difficult to control blood sugar.
6) Clenching or Grinding Teeth. Excess force on the supporting tissues of your teeth could speed their deterioration.
7) Avoiding Dental Visits. Regular exams and confirmation of proper home care techniques can help you prevent gum disease. At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, we can identify gum disease before you can and help you to halt its progression. It's critical to your health, and the health of your family, to have the condition of your teeth and gums checked now. Please visit us at http://www.dulski.com/ for your free exam and consultation.

Tags: Gum Disease, TMD, Preventive Dentistry, Periodontal Disease

Best Teeth Whitening

2011-04-27T14:54:00.000-07:00

There is a disagreement within dentistry about the effectiveness of bleaching lights and lasers to increase the effectiveness of dentist in-office bleaching solutions. Some dentists believe that teeth whitening is more effective with the use of light or lasers. While other dentists believe that the effectiveness of the bleaching solution is not increased by using lights or lasers.

Different manufacturers, all promoting their own light source, claim that their light used with their bleaching solution increases the effectiveness of teeth whitening. Bleaching lights look impressive and cost a few thousand dollars, making the set-up of a dentist in-office whitening system expensive to own and operate, increasing the cost of teeth whitening in the dentist office for the consumer.

Many recent studies show that the active ingredient in these teeth whitening solutions, peroxide, is effective without the use of a light. These studies were done by whitening the teeth on one side of the mouth with the light, and the other side of the mouth without the light using the same whitening solution on both sides of the mouth. The studies show that both sides of the mouth whitened equally well. Could the promotion of bleaching lights simply be a marketing gimmick?

At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, Dr. Dulski uses a leading professional in-office teeth whitening brand that does not use a light or laser. For the best value for your teeth whitening dollar, visit http://www.dulski.com/whiten.html.

Tags: Teeth Whitening, Dentist In-Office Teeth Bleaching, Professional Teeth Whitening, Cosmetic Dentistry

Initial Dental Exam

2011-04-26T10:24:00.000-07:00

During your initial visit to Adult Dentistry of Rochester, Dr. Dulski wants you to understand what's included in a thorough dental examination because we believe that it is vital to be an active participant in your dental care. When we examine your mouth, we look for signs of periodontal disease, tooth decay, and bite problems.

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gum and bone supporting the teeth causing loss of support and cavities or pockets between the gum, bone and tooth. Since you may have no symptoms with periodontal disease, we use visual examination, a periodontal probe and X-rays to look for it. During your exam, we look for red and swollen gums as in this example of early periodontal disease.

We also use a periodontal probe to measure the depth of the pocket from where the gums are attached to the tooth to the top of the gums. A probe reading of more that 3 mm is a sign of periodontal disease. And, the deeper the pocket, the greater the spread of the disease. Sometimes gums bleed when we probe. Bleeding is a sign of infection. Healthy gums don't bleed.

X-rays also show us allot about periodontal disease. In a healthy mouth, the bone completely covers the roots of the teeth and is even throughout the mouth. In advanced periodontal disease, the bone level is much lower and uneven.

During an exam, we also look for tooth decay. Tooth decay is produced by acids which is caused by certain types of bacteria in the mouth. The acids dissolve tooth structure and cause cavities in the tooth. Some cavities are easy to see, but for hard to see cavities, we may use a dental explorer and X-rays. A dental explorer sticks slightly when it contacts decayed surfaces on the top and sides of teeth. We also use X-rays to look for cavities. Cavities between the teeth show up as dark spots.

During your check-up, we also inspect your bite. When you chew, a healthy mouth allows all of your teeth to hit simultaneously, chewing muscles to contract evenly, and your jaw joint to be seated in it's proper position. However, misaligned teeth can trap bacteria leading to periodontal disease and tooth decay. Bite problems can also contribute to difficulties with your jaw joint, the TMJ. It can also cause tooth grinding and clenching, resulting in the loss of enamel near the gum line.

At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, we believe that it is important to monitor the health of your mouth regularly because dental problems can grow quickly and lead to worsening infections, tooth loss, and an unattractive appearance. For a free smile saving exam with Dr. Dulski, visit http://www.dulski.com/.

Tags: Dental Examination, Gum Disease, Periodontal Disease, Tooth Decay, TMJ Disorder, Dental X-rays

Root Canal Treatment

2011-04-05T07:03:00.000-07:00

When tooth decay progresses beyond simple restoration with a filling, to infect the nerve of the tooth, root canal treatment is necessary to save the tooth. The infected nerve is removed and replaced with a root canal filling, likely a rubber material gutta-percha cemented in place.

The procedure usually requires one or two appointments and is not painful once the tooth is thoroughly numbed. After completion of the root canal, the tooth is weak and brittle, requiring a crown to restore the natural strength and beauty of the tooth.

The alternatives to root canal treatment are not favorable. Delay in treatment often means increasing pain and swelling as the infected nerve deteriorates into a dental abscess infecting the surrounding jaw bone and face. The tooth can be extracted and replaced with an implant crown. This alternative is twice as expensive and time consuming than simply saving the tooth with root canal treatment.

At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, Dr. Dulski believes that the best root canal treatment is one that never need be done. With routine X-rays and examination, tooth decay can be restored with a simple composite filling for one-tenth the cost of a root canal and crown. To learn how Dr. Dulski can help you avoid the time and expense of complex restorative care, visit http://www.dulski.com/rootcanals.html.

Tags: Root Canals, Tooth Pain, Root Canal Treatment, Crown

Invisalign

2011-02-02T15:59:00.000-08:00

Invisalign works by using a series of aligner trays that are made of clear plastic that are virtually invisible when worn over the teeth. Wearing the aligners gradually and gently shifts your teeth into place based on the movements that Dr. Dulski has planned. There are no metal brackets to attach and no wires to tighten. You simply snap in a new set of aligners every two weeks until your treatment in complete and you achieve the confident smile that you've always wanted. The best part about the whole process is the most people won't even know that you're straightening your teeth.

Michael Burn's Success Story:

“I went through a six-month Invisalign treatment and am very pleased with the results. My bite is well-rounded, and my teeth have straightened very nicely. I am really happy with my smile and have enjoyed working with Dr. Dulski, as he really made the process very easy and painless.”

Michael Burns

Shamara Ferguson's Success Story:

Dear Dr. Dulski,

"When I first came to you seeking help for my teeth, I thought they were beyond repair. You always were positive and encouraging. You worked with me and I was able to get Invisalign. Quickly I saw improvement with my teeth.
Now my teeth are perfect! I never thought my smile could be so beautiful! Thanks for being patient and kind! You are a wonderful dentist. I will always recommend you to whomever may need dental treatment! Thanks again!"

Shamara Ferguson

To summarize the comparative benefits of Invisalign over braces, Invisalign uses clear aligners that are virtually invisible unlike unsightly metal brackets and wires of traditional braces. The smooth plastic aligners are comfortable to wear unlike the wires of braces which can irritate the mouth. Aligners are removable for easy cleaning unlike braces which require much effort when brushing and flossing. Finally, with Invisalign, you can eat whatever you want because the aligners are removable whereas braces have many food restrictions. For a free consultation with Dr. Dulski to learn if Invisalign is right for you, contact us at http://www.dulski.com/invisalign.html.

Tags: Teeth Whitening, Invisalign, Cosmetic Dentistry, Porcelain Veneers, Dental Bonding, Closing Spaces, Braces

Porcelain Veneers Transform Lives

2011-02-02T15:32:00.000-08:00

At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, Dr. Dulski can restore chipped, discolored, gaps, or short or poorly shaped teeth to give you a beautiful, natural-looking smile. Porcelain veneers are thin shells of porcelain bonded to the teeth. The procedure can be accomplished in just two visits.

Doug Hammond's Success Story:

"My problems started with gum recession. I was biking, had an accident, and chipped a lateral tooth. When I asked advice, Dr. Dulski and crew assisted in restoring, whitening, and rebuilding my entire smile for me. It has been a painless and thrilling experience for me. My smile has transformed my life."

Doug Hammond

Nick Benedetto's Success Story:

"I am happy with my new smile! Since I was twelve years old I've had to deal with stained teeth, because of tetracycline that was give to me. Through the years I've tried different ways to lighten my teeth, but nothing really worked. Dr. Dulski informed me about porcelain veneers which are bonded to the teeth. I have to say I am very happy with the results, I look better and feel better about myself. Most of all I'm not afraid to smile! It's a great feeling being able to smile freely. I am getting married soon so smiling for the camera will be easy! Hats off to Dr. Dulski and his team, you guys are true professionals!"

Nick Benedetto

Porcelain veneers are custom crafted in a dental laboratory to meet Dr. Dulski's exacting specifications. A model of your temporary veneers are sent to the lab as a prescription for your new porcelain veneers. Your facial structure, existing teeth, and skin tone are considered when planning the porcelain veneers. Visit Adult Dentistry of Rochester to learn how Dr. Dulski can transform your life, http://www.dulski.com/veneers.html.

Tags: Porcelain Veneers, Invisalign, Teeth Whitening, Cosmetic Dentistry

Smile Makeovers

2011-02-02T15:09:00.000-08:00

At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, you can have the smile of your dreams with a smile makeover. Dr. Dulski begins the process with a thorough oral exam and discussion about what you want your new smile to look like. Dr. Dulski develops a design for your new smile after considering factors like the shape of your face, eye color and skin tone, and the shape and contour of your lips. Computer imaging software with a gallery of smile designs creates a before and after simulation of the proposed changes.

Advances in cosmetic and restorative dentistry allow Dr. Dulski to give you a dazzling smile. Teeth whitening is the simplest and least expensive cosmetic procedure. Tooth-colored fillings and porcelain restorations can repair decay and wear. Porcelain veneers and cosmetic bonding can straighten the appearance of front teeth and repair cracks, chips, gaps and lighten deeply stained teeth. Dental implants can replace missing teeth and restore a lost bite. To learn how Dr. Dulski can create your unique new smile, visit http://www.dulski.com/services.html.

Tags: Smile Make0ver, Teeth Whitening, Tooth-Colored Fillings, Porcelain Veneers, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants

Cosmetic Bonding

2011-02-02T14:40:00.000-08:00

Cosmetic bonding is a cosmetic restorative procedure where a tooth-colored composite acrylic is applied to the tooth and hardened with a special blue activating light. A special dental adhesive is used to retain and seal the restoration to the tooth.

Indications for cosmetic bonding include: filling decayed teeth; repairing chips or cracks; lighten discolored teeth; close gaps between teeth; lengthen or reshape poorly shaped teeth; replace amalgam (silver-mercury) fillings; and, seal exposed and sensitive tooth roots. Cosmetic bonding allows little tooth preparation, preserving the strength of the remaining tooth. The dentist uses a shade guide to select a color of composite that will most closely match the color of your tooth.

Katie's Success Story:

I broke my front tooth in half and was really scared to get it fixed. It hurt because the nerve ending was exposed. When I went into Dr. Dulski's office, everyone was so friendly and helped me alot. Dr. Dulski talked to me through the whole entire thing, reassuring me every step of the way. He also made sure I was comfortable with the entire team. Now, thanks to Dr. Dulski and his team I have a beautiful, natural smile again and I don't have to be ashamed to open my mouth."

Katie DeFranco

Cosmetic bonding is a one-appointment procedure that is less expensive and more conserving of tooth structure than a two-appointment porcelain veneer or crown. Cosmetic bonding is best limited to small cosmetic changes because composite is less stain and fracture resistant than porcelain. As with any cosmetic restoration, avoid habits such as biting fingernails, pens, or ice to assure a long lasting restoration. Cosmetic bonding is an ideal procedure to address the cosmetic embarrassment of an emergency front tooth fracture. To learn more about Dr. Dulski's cosmetic services at Adult Dentistry of Rochester, visit http://www.dulski.com/cosmetic-dentist.html.

Tags: Cosmetic Dentistry, Porcelain Veneers, Teeth Whitening

Cosmetic Dentures

2011-02-02T13:54:00.000-08:00

At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, Dr. Dulski makes a fair number of removable dentures. We specialize in patients who have had: problems getting numb, advanced dental problems, negative dental experiences, and, no treatment for many years. You who have suffered the loss of all your natural teeth need a dentist who understands and caters to your fears and has the cosmetic training to know how to design a smile that will be attractive and will fit your facial characteristics.

Their are many benefits to having a cosmetic dentist make your denture. Cosmetic dentists offer artistic designing with the aid of a video-imaging computer program that simulates how you will look with your new teeth. There are many facets of smile design that a cosmetic dentist will incorporate into your new denture to make your new smile the best that it can be. Cosmetic dentists also offer try-ins that allow you to preview the smile and function of the denture to make any changes before the dentures are finished to assure your satisfaction.

You are not alone. Everyone has problems and fears concerning denture dentistry. To learn more about Dr. Dulski's full offering of denture services, visit Adult Dentistry of Rochester at http://www.dulski.com/dentures.html.

Tags: Dentures, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, Bridges

Soft Drinks and Tooth Decay

2011-01-31T14:55:00.000-08:00

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

Mouth, Head and Neck Examination for Oral Cancer

2011-01-25T12:18:00.000-08:00

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

Posterior Composite (White) Fillings Versus Amalgam (Silver) Fillings

2011-01-19T15:38:00.000-08:00

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

Risk of Tooth Decay

2011-01-19T07:36:00.000-08:00

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

Bad Breath

2011-01-12T08:49:00.000-08:00

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

Dry Mouth

2011-01-10T14:23:00.000-08:00

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

Tooth Brush Abrasion

2011-01-06T08:37:00.000-08:00

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

The Pain of TMD

2010-12-23T16:01:00.000-08:00

The nerves and muscles of the jaw control opening and closing and cause separation as pressure is applied between the teeth. Pressure sensitive receptors in the tiny ligaments suspending the teeth in the jaw bone and the receptors in the chewing muscles cause a reflex to occur during biting to minimize the duration and magnitude of the forces on teeth.

Dysfunction in the jaw joint occurs when this reflex control of the jaw movement is over-ridden by higher brain centers during clenching and grinding (bruxism). During bruxism, tooth contact occurs for extended periods of time and with much greater magnitude. These pressures measure ten times greater than the force commonly exerted on teeth. These excessive pressures can result in severe tooth wear, cracking and fracturing of teeth and fillings and pain during chewing due to incomplete fracture of the tooth (Cracked Tooth Syndrome). A crown is necesary to splint a cracked tooth to prevent further separation of the crack.

The excessive forces of bruxism can also cause jaw pain from fatigue of the jaw muscles and inflammation from damage to the cartilage and ligaments of the jaw joint. These sign and symptoms are referred to as Temporal Mandibular Dysfunction, or TMD. If you believe that you are experiencing any of these changes, then visit http://www.dulski.com/jawbite.html to learn how Dr. Dulski at Adult Dentistry of Rochester can help.

Tags: TMJ Problems, TMD

Pain Control In Dentistry

2010-12-15T08:54:00.000-08:00

Pain is a protective response to tissue injury and has two components. The first is the propagation of the sensory impulse along the nerve to the brain where the impulse is recognized and described in terms of location, nature and intensity. The second is the emotional response to pain which involves the interpretation of pain and the fear triggered by this interpretation. The experience of pain is therefore the product of the magnitude of the sensory input and its psychological processing.

In dentistry, pain control often requires analgesic drugs. Adjunctive measures can augment the effectiveness of these drugs in the dental office. Studies show that the sensation of pain is increased as anxiety increases. This relationship suggests that efforts to reduce anxiety can lessen pain both in the dental office and at home after the procedure.

At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, Dr. Dulski uses the following simple measures with each patient to optimize patient comfort:

     1) Present a calm, well-organized staff and treatment environment.

     2) Provide information both about the procedure and what sensations to expect.

     3) Assure the patient that no treatment will be initiated unless the patient is 100% completely numb.

     4) Discuss the patient's previous experiences of pain management in other dental offices.

     5) Assure the patient that effective pain control will be provided with medication after the procedure.

And, for patients with a heightened sense of fear, Dr. Dulski provides a range of sedation to meet every need. To learn more about effective control of the pain and anxiety of dental procedures, visit http://www.dulski.com/oral.html.

Tags: Dental Injections, Pain Control, Dental Anesthesia, Sedation Dentistry

Oral Health and the Geriatric Patient

2010-12-07T14:17:00.000-08:00

Several factors influence the planning of treatment for the older adult. More than any other age group, some patients may benefit from complex and invasive treatment such as implant restorations while limited supportive care may be the optimal choice for others. The factors which influence this decision include:

      1) Patient desires and expectations

2) Type and severity of the patient's dental need

      3) The problem's impact on the patient's quality of life

      4) The probability of positive treatment outcomes

      5) The availability of reasonable and less extensive treatment alternatives

      6) Ability of the patient to tolerate the physical, mental and emotional stress of treatment

      7) The patient's capacity to maintain oral health

      8) The patient's financial resources

9) The dentist's skills and facility access

     10) Other issues such as life expectancy, family desires and bio-ethical issues

Treatment outcomes are optimized by incrementally prioritizing treatment. Initially, care should center on emergency care such as control of pain and infection; extraction of hopelessly decayed teeth; removal of deposits of plaque, stain and tartar; fillings to prevent further decay ; and repair of broken dentures. Then treatment of periodontal disease and simple restorations such as root canals, crowns and temporary dentures should be pursued. Finally, complex restorations such as implant crowns and bridges, and partial or complete removable dentures can be provided.

An informed discussion with the patient includes the advantages, disadvantages, risks and alternatives to any proposed treatment along with the staging of care. All treatment questions are answered before the treatment plan is finalized at the dental chair and a written plan with associated fees is presented at the reception desk for signature by the patient. To learn more about the special care for older adults provided by Dr. Dulski at Adult Dentistry of Rochester, visit http://www.dulski.com/.

Tags: Oral Health, Geriatric Dentistry, Gum Disease

Denture Care

2010-12-07T07:53:00.000-08:00

Determination of a patient's capacity to chew adequately is an important part of the periodic denture exam. Studies in the United Kingdom and Japan have found that maintaining 20 or more natural teeth represents an important cut-off for adequate nutrition.

In addition to tooth loss, chewing effectiveness may be impaired by pain; crooked , worn or loose teeth; dry mouth; loss of tooth or bone support for the bite; joint dysfunction; or ill-fitting dentures. Complete denture wearers have about one-fifth the chewing ability of persons with natural teeth and take more laxatives and anti-reflux drugs for gastro-intestinal problems.

Existing dentures need to be carefully evaluated for fit, comfort and function. Dr. Dulski evaluates dentures for stability, retention, support for the bite and esthetics of the face, bite contacts and alignment, tissue extension and pressure. For a free comprehensive denture examination by Dr. Dulski to spot problems, visit Adult Dentistry of Rochester at http://www.dulski.com/banner.html.

Tags: Denture Exam, Dentures, Dental Implants

Warning Signs of Periodontal Disease

2010-12-07T04:48:00.000-08:00

The American Dental Association lists eight warning signs of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease in its early stages is often painless. It is the most common cause for tooth loss for adults age 35 years or older and it affects 75% of this age group. Don't wait till it hurts. The eight warning signs are:

      1) Gums that bleed when you brush.

      2) Gums that are red, tender or swollen.

      3) Gums that have pulled away or receded from the teeth.

      4) Pus between teeth and gums when the gums are pressed.

      5) Permanent teeth that are loose or separating.

      6) Change in the way your teeth fit when biting.

      7) Any change in the fit of partial dentures.

      8) Persistent bad breath.

If one or more of these warning signs apply to you, bring it to the attention of your dentist or hygienist. Act now to save your teeth for a life-time. For a free comprehensive dental examination by Dr. Dulski to screen for periodontal disease, visit Adult Dentistry of Rochester at http://www.dulski.com/banner.html.

Tags:  Periodontal Disease, Warning Signs of Periodontal Disease

The Link Between Diabetes and Gum Disease

2010-12-06T13:17:00.000-08:00

Did you know that gum disease is often linked to the control of diabetes? If you are a person with diabetes, ask your dentist to show you how to keep your teeth and gums healthy because persons with diabetes get gum disease more often than people who do not have diabetes, and gum infections can make it harder to control blood sugar. Conversely, good blood sugar control can prevent gum disease.

Because diabetes reduces the body's resistance to infection, the gums are among the tissues likely to be affected. Gum or periodontal disease is an infection of the gum and bone that hold your teeth in place. Keeping your own teeth is important for healthy eating. Natural teeth help you chew foods better and easier than you can with dentures. Good nutrition is another way that healthy teeth and gums can make it easier to control blood sugar.

Persons with diabetes with inadequate blood sugar control appear to develop periodontal disease more often and more severely, and lose more teeth than persons who have good control of their diabetes. It is possible to have periodontal disease and not be aware of it. An early warning sign of periodontal disease is bleeding gums. Healthy gums do not bleed. A later warning sign is loose teeth. Unfortunately, at this later stage of periodontal disease, so much supporting bone has been lost that there is no alternative than to remove the teeth.

Because of lowered resistance and a longer healing process, periodontal disease often appears more frequently and more severely among persons with diabetes. That's why good maintenance of blood sugar levels, a well-balanced diet, good oral care at home, regular dental check-ups and periodontal examinations at each appointment are important. For a free comprehensive dental examination by Dr. Dulski to spot problems which could affect the control of your diabetic condition, visit Adult Dentistry of Rochester at http://www.dulski.com/banner.html.

Tags: Gum Disease, Periodontal Disease, Diabetes, Dental Examination

Top 10 Critical Things You Should Know Before You Select A Sedation Dentist

2010-11-29T10:42:00.000-08:00

Sedation dentistry is a great option for patients with dental phobias, patients requiring large amounts of dental work, and patients who just prefer to sleep through their appointment. However, sedation is a powerful tool, and you don't want to entrust your safety to just anyone. These guidelines can help you choose the practitioner who's right for you.

1) Check the doctor's credentials. Unlike other dental specialties (oral surgery, orthodontics, ect.) sedation dentistry is not recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA) as a specialty. However, sedation dentists receive certification through The University of the State of New York Education Department. The sedation dentist should also be licensed through the New York State Dental Board.

2) Investigate the doctor's training. The best sedation dentistry practitioners didn't just go to dental school; they also completed extensive post-graduate training programs that focus specifically on issues of sedation dentistry. In addition, the best dentists regularly attend continuing education classes to stay up-to-date on new procedures and materials. Is the dentist a member of professional organizations such as the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) which promotes quality continuing education courses to its members?

3) Start with a consultation. Going in for a consultation is a great way to learn more about a dentist and dental practice. Consultations are generally inexpensive, and are sometimes even offered for free. Talk to the dentist before you commit to anything. Remember, it's your job to make an educated decision.

4) Look for sedation experience. Sedation dentistry is as much an art as it is a science. In general, the more sedation dentistry that the dentist has performed, the more comfortable and safe will be your sedation dentistry experience. And sedation dentistry is more than just the health of your teeth; the dentist should also consider the health of your gums and supporting bone.

5) Communication is key. It's essential that you be able to talk to your dentist - and that your dentist will listen to you! There's a lot of dialogue that needs to go into an individual long-term treatment plan. If you feel bullied, pressured, or rushed, then that's probably not the right dentist for you.

6) Review before and after photos and testimonials. Take a look at the dentist's portfolio before you make up your mind. What do patients report about their experience? Pay specific attention to cases that are similar to yours. Make sure that the photos are of actual work done by the dentist, not just stock photos.

7) Don's pay too much - or too little. Some dentist charge more marketing themselves as high-end cosmetic dentists offering Hollywood smile makeovers. Other dentists try to make up for poor materials and shoddy work by offering low prices. Beware of extremes.

8) An honest dentist sets realistic expectations. Watch out for doctors who promise more that they can deliver. You want a dentist who will tell you what can and cannot be done for your smile. You need to know how long the process will take, any complications that could occur, expected longevity of the restoration, and cost. Get a written fee estimate.

9) Technology is cool, but it's not the only thing. A dentist with high-tech modern equipment like digital x-rays and intra-oral cameras is more likely to be up-to-date on modern techniques. At the same time, however, don't let yourself be dazzled by a dentist's fancy tools; what really matters is that the dentist knows how to use them properly.

10) A good lab technician is a valuable asset. The dentist might decide on the treatment plan, but it's the lab technician who'll actually fabricate the porcelain veneers, crowns or dentures used to restore your smile. Great dentists are proud of their lab technicians and the materials that they use.

We know that selecting a sedation dentist is not easy. Here at Adult Dentistry of Rochester, we want you to know that you can contact Dr. Dulski personally with any questions or concerns at http://www.dulski.com/contact.html.

Tags: Sedation Dentistry, Dental Phobias, Sedation Dentistry, Sedation Dentist

What Does Dental Insurance Cover?

2010-11-16T12:13:00.000-08:00

Dental insurance is a benefit plan, unlike your medical insurance. Dental insurance is an agreement made between your employer and the insurance company to help pay for some of your dental needs. The more that your employer pays for coverage, the lower your out-of-pocket expense will be.

The services covered by the policy are totally arbitrary and have no relation to the treatment that you need or want. At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, Dr. Dulski's responsibility is to advise you what treatments are available and the risks and benefits of each. Your insurance contract is designed by lawyers and accountants to control costs for the insurer.

We can only estimate your insurance benefit prior to service. At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, we deal with thousands of plans and hundreds of types of treatment each year. Most insurance carriers refuse to release the details of their plans. They change policies and reimbursements constantly and without notice.

Occasionally, we are asked to send a written request to the insurance carrier for an estimate. This pre-authorization is rarely required, despite contract language that is designed to suggest otherwise. The process is so long and frustrating for patients that statistically nearly 70% of the planned treatment never gets done. Plus, carriers rarely disclose what the actual dollar amount of the reimbursement will be. Even after all that time and effort, the carrier is not obliged to honor the pre-authorization once treatment is completed. That's why Adult Dentistry of Rochester does not submit pre-authorizations. Honestly, if you can't afford the risk of the insurer not paying the estimated portion, then you can't yet afford to proceed with the planned treatment.

We are happy to process your paperwork for you. To accept insurance, we ask you to keep a credit card on file. Before treatment, we will approximate your coverage and ask for your estimated co-payment. After insurance pays, we will credit or charge your card to reconcile the difference. Whether your insurer pays some, all, or none of the estimated coverage, remember that you are ultimately responsible for payment. To learn the financial options that are available at Adult Dentistry of Rochester to pay for your dental needs, visit http://www.dulski.com/affordable.html.

Tags: Dental Insurance, Payment Plans

Conditioning And The Origin Of Dental Phobia

2010-11-15T14:31:00.000-08:00

If you dread the dentist, then you are not alone. 50% of Americans are afraid of the dentist. How does this common fear of the dentist become the disabling disorder of dental phobia?

A dental phobia is a persistent and unreasonable fear that results in a compelling desire to avoid the dreaded object, activity or situation. There are three characteristics that distinguish a phobia from ordinary, everyday fears. First, you are persistently afraid of the situation over a long period of time. Second, you know that your fear is unreasonable, even though this recognition does not help to dispel it. Finally, what is most characteristic of a phobia is your avoidance of the feared situation. Being unreasonably afraid of something is not yet a phobia; the phobia begins when you actually start avoiding what you fear.

Only when you start to avoid that situation do you "learn" to be phobic. A cardinal principle in behavioral psychology is that any behavior that is rewarded tends to be repeated. Avoiding a situation you're anxious about is obviously rewarded - the reward being the reduction of anxiety. Each time you avoid the situation, the reward of being relieved of anxiety follows, and so your behavior gets strengthened and tends to be repeated. Your avoidance works very will in saving you from anxiety. Learning to stay away from a fearful situation because it is rewarding to do so is what constitutes conditioning by avoidance. Avoidance conditioning is the most critical process in the formation of any phobia.

The most effective way to overcome a phobia is simply to face it. Continuing to avoid a situation that frightens you is, more that anything else, what keeps the phobia alive. Having to face a particular situation you have been avoiding for years may at the outset seem an impossible task. Instead of entering a situation all at once, you can do it gradually in small increments. Here at Adult Dentistry of Rochester, we practice the process of desensitization, or exposure, which is the unlearning of the connection between anxiety and the dental experience. The goal is to unlearn the connection between a phobic situation and re-associate feelings of relaxation and safety with that particular situation. We can train you to relax and feel safe in response to the dental experience so that you will no longer feel anxious about it. Relaxation and anxiety are incompatible responses, so the goal of desensitization is to learn to remain in the phobic situation and be calm at the same time.

Exposure therapy demands a strong commitment on your part. If you're genuinely committed to overcoming your dental phobia, then (1), you'll be willing to take the risk to start facing the dentistry that you may have been avoiding for years, (2), tolerate the initial discomfort that entering the dental office, even in small increments, often involves, and (3), persist in practicing exposure on a consistent basis, despite probable setbacks, over a long enough period of time to allow your complete recovery. Generally, this takes from six months to two years. If you're ready to make a genuine commitment to real-life desensitization, then you will recover from your dental phobia. For practical, step-by-step directions for mastery of these techniques, refer to Dr. Edmund Bourne's, The Anxiety And Phobia Workbook. For Dr. Dulski's help overcoming dental anxiety and phobia at Adult Dentistry of Rochester, visit http://www.dulski.com/oral.html.

Tags: Dental Phobia, Dental Anxiety, Sedation Dentistry

Tooth-Colored Fillings

2010-11-12T13:09:00.000-08:00

Thanks to advances in dental materials and techniques, tooth-colored ceramic-polymer composites now substitute for the black mercury-metal amalgams of the last 150 years. These tooth-colored fillings not only look like natural teeth, they are bonded to the tooth with dental adhesive to seal out leakage and decay.

Composite fillings are a mixture of glass or quartz filler in a resin medium that provides the tooth color. Composites provide good durability and resistance to fracture in small-to-medium-size restorations. Less tooth structure is removed in preparing the tooth for restoration, resulting in conservation of tooth structure and strength. The strength of a filled tooth is proportional to the percentage of remaining tooth structure. For larger restoration, crowns are placed to restore the tooth to its original strength to resist fracture under the load of chewing forces.

Several factors influence the performance, durability, longevity, and cost of dental restorations. At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, Dr. Dulski evaluates the patient's oral and general health, the components used in the restorative material, where in the patient's smile the restoration is to be placed, and the direction and force of chewing forces that the restored tooth will bear. To help you decide which restoration is right for you, visit http://www.dulski.com/restorative-dentistry.html.

Tags: Amalgams, Silver Fillings, Composites, Tooth-Colored Fillings, Cosmetic Dentistry

Digital Imaging

2010-11-08T10:11:00.000-08:00

At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, we feature some of the most advanced equipment and procedures available. Our intra-oral digital cameras produce high-resolution images of your teeth and gums for a more thorough evaluation to better help Dr. Dulski devise appropriate treatment. The biggest hurdle for patients to accept treatment is that they do not understand their condition. With our intra-oral digital cameras, patient education is simplified by being able to help patients see what Dr. Dulski sees.

Digital imaging has also revolutionized the making of dental X-ray images. X-rays have long been used to detect dental cavities and damage below the gum invisible to the eye. The difficulty has been reading the negative image produced on conventional dental film. Adult Dentistry of Rochester uses a Computed Dental Radiography System which captures the image utilizing a digital sensor and displays the image on a computer screen. The digital image is instantaneous and can be magnified and enhanced for improved diagnostics and patient education. This new system requires 90% less radiation than the old film X-rays, and can magnify the image up to 300 times. Now it's as easy as reading a photograph. When Dr. Dulski discusses something that he sees in your mouth, you'll be able to view it right along with him.

Finally, Adult Dentistry of Rochester couples these images with our digital patient education system that displays a menu of video presentations that gives you valuable information on today's latest dental techniques to correct any dental problem. It's 21st-Century dental care that revolves around you and it's available at Adult Dentistry of Rochester. To learn more about this advanced technology, visit http://www.dulski.com/dental-technology.html.

Tags: Digital Dental X-rays, Intra-oral Camera

Choosing A Dental Crown

2010-11-03T07:03:00.000-07:00

Dental crowns are applied to strengthen a weak, decayed or fractured tooth. Dental crowns can also cover dental implants. When a broken or decayed tooth does not have enough healthy structure to support a filling, you may need a dental crown. Dental crowns can be made of different materials.

Porcelain dental crowns are ideal for front teeth due to their natural tooth color. Porcelain fused-to-metal crowns combine the esthetics of a porcelain outer surface with the strength of a metal core and are used primarily on the back teeth to withstand the increased forces of chewing.

In the United States, all metals used in dental crowns and implants must get the approval of the FDA. In recent times, some imported dental crown were found to contain lead. Patients are therefore advised to check with their dentist to learn if FDA materials are being used in their restoration.

Our office uses a local dental laboratory in Seneca Falls, NY, BonaDent, which guarantees that all of your restorations whether crowns, bridges, implants, partial dentures, or complete dentures, are made in the United States. Some labs in the United States ship work overseas to reduce the cost of materials and labor. Our exclusive use of BonaDent ensures you that all materials used to fabricate your restoration comply with all federal guidelines.

We also guarantee that every restoration is made using FDA registered materials for your safety, health and well-being. Our practice is committed to providing you with the highest quality restorations made in the United States by American workers. To learn more about our commitment to you and the local community, visit Adult Dentistry of Rochester at http://www.dulski.com/restorative-dentistry.html or visit BonaDent at http://www.bonadent.com/.

Tags: Dental Crowns, Porcelain Crowns, Porcelain and Metal Crowns, Dental Implant

Non-Surgical Periodontal Treatment

2010-11-01T16:09:00.000-07:00

Periodontitis is a destructive inflammatory disease leading to the decay of gum and bone supporting the teeth. This destruction is attributed to the development and maturation of a bacterial plaque or biofilm. The maturation of this biofilm in the sulcus between the tooth root and gum results in an increasing prevalence of particularly virulent bacteria triggering inflammation and the resulting tissue destruction which is periodontal disease. With the progression of periodontal disease, there is an accumulation of mineralized deposits of bacterial plaque called calculus which contributes to the progression of the disease. The removal of calculus and its associated bacterial plaque is critical to treatment success.

Several factors increase the risk of periodontits. Tobacco smoking is the number one contributing factor, followed by diabetes. These factors compromise the immune response of the individual which can promote the progression of the disease. Non-surgical periodontal treatment is the primary therapy for restoring the health of periodontal tissues.

Plaque removal is the ultimate goal of therapy. Beyond the removal of plaque on the crowns of teeth during a routine hygiene cleaning appointment, non-surgical periodontal treatment removes the bacterial deposits along the root surfaces by scaling and root planing for a successful treatment.

Studies strongly support both manual and ultrasonic scalers to remove deposits below the gum. Local delivery of antibiotics as an adjunct to the gold standard of scaling is moderately supported. However, the use of lasers to treat diseased root surfaces as an alternative to scaling is questionable.

Treatment success is dependent on sufficient cleansing of the root surface to allow for the return of tissue health. The healing response requires the diminished presence of bacteria and their toxins, the resolution of inflammation , and the reattachment of gum and bone to the root surface. The clinical end-points of non-surgical periodontal treatment are reduction of sites with bleeding on probing and reduction of probing depths.

It appears that studies strongly support a non-surgical initial periodontal therapy, and that probing depths greater the 6 mm following non-surgical therapy may benefit from a surgical approach. The optimal outcome rests on prevention and early detection and treatment of periodontal disease to maintain healthy roots in supporting gum and bone. To learn more about non-surgical periodontal treatment as a treatment option, visit www.dulski.com/gum-disease.html.

Tags: Periodontitis, Periodontal Disease, Bacterial Plaque, Calculus, Non-Surgical Periodontal Treatment, Treatment of Periodontal Disease

Fish Oil Might Help Fight Gum Disease

2010-10-27T14:48:00.000-07:00

A study published in the November issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found that eating moderate amounts of omega-3 fatty acids seemed beneficial in preventing gum disease. The American Heart Association recommends eating fatty fish at least twice a week. So it appears that omega-3 is a good idea for heart and gum health.

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums caused by the accumulation of plaque and tartar along the gum line of teeth. The bacteria of plaque release toxins which cause inflammation, the body's attempt to heal and repair itself. This chronic inflammation causes decay in the surrounding gum and bone causing pockets or cavities. About half of the adult population over 35 years of age experiences gingivitis, an infection limited to the gums, while 10-20 percent experience the more advanced form of periodontal disease effecting the gum and bone called periodontitis.

The usual treatment of periodontal disease is good home care involving daily brushing and flossing with supportive professional care by the dentist to remove the hard deposits of tartar and applying local antibiotics to kill the bacteria. This study supports incorporating fish into one's diet for the anti-inflammatory effects of omega-3 to limit the destruction of gum and bone as a result of periodontitis. Dietary sources of omega-3 are sardines, herring, salmon, along with walnuts and flax seed. For more information on periodontitis and the relation to heart health, refer to my September 29, 2010 blog post or visit www.dulski.com/gum-disease.html.

Tags: Prevention of Gum Disease, Periodontitis, Periodontal Disease, Treatment of Periodontal Disease

Cosmetic Dentistry

2010-10-23T18:54:00.000-07:00

Innovations in dental technology have made a trip to the dentist an entirely new experience thanks to the advances of cosmetic dentistry. The main goal of traditional dentistry is to keep teeth healthy and free of decay. Cosmetic dentistry takes the profession to a whole new level with the goal of enhancing the appearance of your smile and consequently your self-esteem. With cosmetic dentistry, even getting a cavity filled can be an opportunity to improve your smile.

For over 150 years, cavities were filled with a metal called amalgam, a mixture of silver and mercury. You may have seen these black filling on the back teeth of an individual when they laughed. Today, cavities are filled with composites which are made of resins that are matched to the tooth color for a natural appearance. Composite fillings also provide an excellent seal since they are bonded to the tooth using a strong dental adhesive.

Bonding technology is also used to restore severely discolored or decayed teeth with porcelain veneers or crowns. One of the more popular developments in cosmetic dentistry is the use of porcelain veneers to close gaps or straighten crowded teeth. The result is a new smile which can be accomplished in as little as one week.

Stained teeth are very common among adults of all ages and come from foods such as coffee, tea, tobacco, red wine and soda. Teeth whitening is a safe, effective and fast procedure. The key to a long-lasting, dazzling white smile is to have them whitened by a cosmetic dentist using a prescription strength agent applied using the technologies available in a professional office.

Teeth whitening used in conjunction with Invisalign uses a series of clear plastic aligner to close gaps and straighten healthy teeth without the metal brackets and wires of conventional braces. 3-D computer imaging technology allows you to see the results of your beautiful new smile right at the chair. It's one thing for me to tell you the services available through the advances of cosmetic dentistry. Why not see the results for yourself and hear patients relate their success stories by visiting www.dulski.com/success.html.

Tags: Cosmetic Dentistry, Compposite Fillings, Porcelain Veneers, Dental Crowns, Teeth Whitening, Invisalign

Teeth Whitening

2010-10-14T15:49:00.000-07:00

A smile is one of the first things that you notice about people. A bright, beautiful smile catches your attention. Stained or discolored teeth are very common among adults of all ages, and comes from a variety of sources, such as smoking or drinking coffee, tea, or red wine.

Those with stained teeth tend to brush more vigorously which can cause gum recession and expose and damage tender root surfaces. Others use over-the-counter whitening kits which don't have the prescription strength and lasting effects of professional teeth whitening.

The key to a long lasting, bright, naturally white smile is to have teeth whitened by a cosmetic dentist. I have found blue light activated teeth whitening to be safe, gentle and effective. Blue Light Teeth Whitening works by the dentist carefully applying the whitening gel to the teeth. The gel is then activated by a gentle blue light for 20 minutes while you relax and watch a video or listen to music. The process is repeated before you go home with a naturally dazzling new smile.

There's no laser, no heat and no scraping; only gel and light to achieve dramatic results in one hour. To learn more about what teeth whitening can do for you, visit /www.dulski.com/whiten.html.

Tags: Teeth Whitening, Cosmetic Dentist, Blue Light Teeth Whitening

Why Dental Implants?

2010-10-11T14:37:00.000-07:00

There are plenty of reasons to replace a missing tooth. A gap between your teeth if in your smile is an embarrassment. A missing tooth can also impair your speech. Missing back teeth, although not noticeable, diminish your bite.

When a back tooth is lost, the biting force on the remaining teeth increases and adjacent teeth collapse into the gap. These extra pressures if distributed to the jaw joints can lead to dysfunction and pain. If a missing tooth is not replaced, the shifting teeth open gaps at the gums which accumulate plaque which can lead to tooth decay, periodontal disease and further tooth loss. The need for many dentures began with the loss of a single tooth.

Dental implants are an excellent treatment for replacing a missing tooth. Implants are small titanium posts that replace the roots of missing teeth. Custom crafted crowns are secured to the implant which then restore the bite and hold the adjacent teeth firmly in place. Single tooth implants are not removable.

The placement of an implant has several phases. First, we determine if an implant is right for you by discussing your health and treatment goals. We do a comprehensive examination to check the health of your gums and the supporting jaw bone.

To begin the procedure, we shape a shaft in the bone, then place the implant in the prepared space. Over the course of the next two months, the implant will become fused in the bone. The last step is to secure the crown for final restoration.

Implants have several benefits. They stimulate the jaw bone when you chew preserving the jaw bone and keeping it healthy. Implants are comfortable and secure, and they have the look and feel of natural teeth. With good home care and regular check-ups, implants can be a good long-term solution for missing teeth. For more information, visit www.dulski.com/implants.html or www.ada.org/public/topics/implants.asp.

Tags: Dental Implants, Single Tooth Implants

Key Reason Found for Gum and Heart Disease Link

2010-09-29T13:46:00.000-07:00

Scientists say they have established one reason why gum disease may increase the risk of heart disease. The link between gum and heart problems has long been recognized but it is unclear if poor oral health is simply a marker of a person's general well-being. UK and Irish experts now say bacteria enter the bloodstream via sore gums and deposit a clot forming protein. The findings are being presented at a meeting of the Society for General Microbiology. Earlier this year a Scottish study of more than 11,000 people found that people who did not brush their teeth twice a day were at increased risk of heart disease. It backed up previous findings suggesting a link, but researchers stressed the nature of the relationship still needed further analysis.

Scientists from the University of Bristol working with the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland now suggest it is the Streptococcus bacteria responsible for causing tooth plaque and gum disease which may be to blame. Their work shows this bacteria once loose in the bloodstream makes a protein known as PadA which forces platelets in the blood to stick together and clot.

"When the platelets clump together they completely encase the bacteria. This provides a protective cover not only from the immune system, but also from antibiotics that might be used to treat infection," said Professor Howard Jenkinson, who led the research. Unfortunately, as well as helping out the bacteria, platelet clumping can cause small blood clots, growths on the heart valve, or inflammation of blood vessels that can block the blood supply to the heart and brain." While maintaining good dental hygiene could minimize the risk, the team is also investigating how the platelet activating function of the protein PadA can be blocked.

Professor Damian Walmsley, scientific adviser to the British Dental Association, said, "Research such as this makes a welcome contribution to further understanding the nature of the relationship between gum disease and heart disease. It also underlines the high importance to the relationship between gum disease and heart disease. It also underlines the high importance of brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, restricting your intake of sugary foods and drinks and visiting the dentist regularly in order to maintain good oral health."

The British Heart Foundation said that other factors besides oral health had a greater impact on heart health. But their senior cardiac nurse Cathy Ross added that combining good oral health care "with a healthy diet, not smoking and taking part in plenty of physical activity will go a long way in helping you reduce your overall risk of heart disease." To learn what dental services are available in Rochester, New York to maintain a healthy heart, visit http://www.dulski.com/services.html.

Tags: Gum Disease, Heart Disease, Oral Health, Risk of Heart Disease, Healthy Heart

Anethesia and Sedation

2010-09-27T15:25:00.000-07:00

The question often arises from an anxious patient whether sedation such as nitrous oxide can substitute for "a shot." I think the anxious patient often poses the question in the hope of avoiding "the needle." The question can be answered by understanding the difference between anesthesia and sedation.

The purpose of local anesthesia is to eliminate pain during dental treatment. A topical anesthetic is sprayed to the area to make the injection more comfortable. Local anesthetics are injected into the tissues to block the nerves that transmit pain thereby numbing the mouth tissues. The numbness lasts during the one to two hour dental procedure.

Anti-anxiety agents, such as nitrous oxide, or sedatives, help you relax during dental visits and are used along with local anesthetics. Nitrous oxide provides a light level of sedation. The advantage is being able to drive to home or office shortly after the procedure. Conscious oral sedation uses oral medications in addition to nitrous oxide to produce a deeper level of sedation where a friend or relative will need to drive you home to recover after the procedure. The range of sedation is used to match the severity of the dental anxiety presented by the patient.

To better understand the range of sedation choices available to relieve anxiety, visit /www.dulski.com/oral.html. Anxiety need not be a barrier to safe and comfortable dental visits to keep your smile healthy.

Tags: Conscious Oral Sedation, Local Anethetics, Nitrous Oxide

The Value of Conservative Tooth Restorations

2010-09-20T14:26:00.000-07:00

The Value of Conservative Tooth Restorations

Has there been a movement away from conservative tooth restorations in recent years towards large, deep, aggressive preparations and full crowns? Dr. Gordon Christensen, co-founder and senior consultant of Clinical Research Associates in Provo, Utah believes so ("What Has Happened to Conservative Tooth Restorations?" Gordon Christensen, DDS, J am Dent Assoc, Vol 136, No 10, 1435-1437).

The belief is that too many full-coverage restorations are provided when less radical restorations could have been placed. As an example, a popular speaker at a continuing education course taught that a tooth with any restoration to be replaced, regardless of the restoration size, should be replaced with a full crown. Instead, Dr. Dulski believes that conservative restorations should be encouraged. This report discusses some of the reasons full crowns are being accomplished more commonly than in the past, the rationale for returning to more conservative restorations, the financial implications of crowns versus conservative treatment, and the potential longevity differences between small and large restorations.

The rationale for conservative restorations is preservation of tooth structure. Assuming that a given tooth has a significant amount of tooth structure remaining and that the structure is not discolored or cracked, conservative restorations have some significant advantages. Among these advantages is long-term esthetic acceptability for the tooth restored with a conservative tooth-colored restoration. When a tooth-colored full crown is placed in the smile zone of the mouth, the esthetic desirability of the crown is usually good for only the first years. Eventually, the gums around the crown begin to shrink and recede, and the margin joining the crown and the remaining tooth structure is revealed. The overall esthetic result is then unacceptable.

Most dentists agree that preservation of tooth is a desirable goal. Once enamel is removed, it cannot be replaced with anything as long-lasting. If tooth structure and restorative material can be bonded successfully, the result achieves the goal of preserving tooth structure. Bonding tooth structure, especially enamel, to restorative materials is a reality today.

It is well-known that restorations, including full crowns, have a finite life expectancy. People are living longer than ever before. At some point in the life of every restoration, replacement is inevitable. Why not restore teeth conservatively for a filling or two before a full crown is required? Full crowns can be placed in the future.

What are the financial implications of conservative tooth restorations? If a full-crown costs about $1000, a typical three surface white filling costs about one-sixth or $167. If the conservative filling can be placed with the confidence that it has a reasonable chance of achieving adequate longevity, such conservative placement allows several replacements before the patient's financial outlay reaches the cost of a crown.

There is a tendency in dentistry to place more full crowns than may be necessary. This report has discussed the rationale for a reduction in the use of full crowns and a preservation of enamel. Dr. Dulski supports the desirability of placing more conservative restorations to realize the financial and longevity benefits offered by more conservative restorative dentistry. Visit www.dulski.com to learn how contemporary methods give us the tools to give you a gorgeous, bright smile with minimally invasive treatments and fewer repeat visits.

Tags: Conservative Tooth Restorations, Crowns, Tooth-Colored Restorations, Conservative Restorative Dentistry, Minimally Invasive Dentistry

Choosing A Rochester Dentist

2010-09-14T09:04:00.000-07:00

What Should You Look For When Choosing A Rochester Dentist?

You may wish to consider several Rochester dentists before making your decision. During your first visit, you should be able to determine if this dentist is the right dentist for you. Consider the following:

Is the appointment schedule convenient for you?
Is the office easy to get to from home or job?
Does the office appear to be clean, neat and orderly?
Was your medical and dental history reviewed by the dentist with you?
Was your pulse and blood pressure checked?
Do you fully understand the nature of any discovered dental problems, the recommended treatment and the consequences of no treatment?
Are your questions encouraged and fully answered?
Is the dentist available for emergency calls after office hours?
Are fees quoted for recommended care and payment options presented in writing before treatment is scheduled?
Is the dentist a member of professional organizations such as the American Dental Association (ADA) and the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)? ADA members agree to abide by the highest ethical standards of patient care. AGD members are dedicated to the highest level of continuing education as a condition of their membership.

You and your dentist are partners in maintaining your oral health. Contact this Rochester dentist www.dulski.com or search the ADA directory of member Rochester dentists www.ada.org to schedule a new patient appointment.

Tags: Rochester Dentist, Rochester Dentists

Bonding Breakdown? Time for Porcelain Veneers

2010-09-08T14:28:00.000-07:00

How we perceive our smile and appearance affects our self-esteem, our moods and how we function in social and business relationships. Common conditions that impact negatively on your smile include broken, cracked or worn teeth, discolored teeth, missing teeth, crooked teeth, gaps between your teeth and/or "gummy smiles." Each patient and each specific circumstance must be evaluated on its own merits. Factors such as occlusion (bite), oral habits, available space, health of the gum tissue, severity of the problem and patient expectation must be taken into consideration while planning your cosmetic makeover. While in many circumstances bonding teeth with resin composites has its advantages, the resin materials are not as long lasting as ceramic materials. Porcelains won't darken and their surface doesn't wear like acrylic resins might.

If there have been cracks, chips or discolorations in your composite restorations, they need to be redone or replaced with ceramic restorations. When possible using porcelain veneers that are bonded to the teeth are less invasive than ceramic crowns that necessitate the removal of greater amounts of tooth structure. This person chose to have a porcelain veneers to mask teeth discolored by tetracycline stains which typically will not respond to bleaching (teeth whitening) procedures. www.dulski.com/gallery3.html

Visit us on-line at www.dulski.com or call our office at 585-442-1230 if you think that you are a candidate for this type of procedure.

Tags:Porcelain Veneers, Porcelain Crowns, Teeth Whitening, Cosmetic Dentistry