Q: What is a periodontist?
A: A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of gum disease. The word itself comes from the Greek roots, "peri," meaning around, and "odont," the word for tooth. Periodontistry is one of several areas of dental specialty that require two to three years of training beyond the education required for a General Dentist. Since some 75 percent of tooth loss is due to gum disease and the deterioration of the tooth's support system, the periodontist is a critical part of our oral health care system.
If periodontal disease is caught early, there are many non-surgical ways to treat it. The periodontist, general dentist, or hygienist may be able to scrape plaque from tooth roots to reduce the amount of bacteria in these areas, which when combined with regular care can help to keep your periodontal disease stable. If the disease is more advanced, surgical techniques, including bone grafting, may be used to replace lost bone. It is important for your periodontal status to be stable to be a candidate for dental implants.
In the best of worlds, you'd like to not need the services of a periodontist, the best way to avoid that is to visit Chips Dental Associates regularly and observe a sound regimen of home care by brushing and flossing regularly.
Brought to you as a community service by Chips Dental Associates, LLC.
For more information or questions, please visit www.chipsdentalLLC.com
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Monday, May 10, 2010
What is the Pulp of the tooth?
Q: What is the pulp of the tooth?
A: Inside every tooth, protected by the casing of enamel, is a mass of tissue that holds the nerves and blood vessels that are essential to the health of the tooth. People generally refer to the pulp as the 'nerve' of the tooth because it's extremely sensitive and painful when exposed. Through tiny openings in the tips of the roots of the teeth, the vessels and nerves in the tooth connect with the arteries, veins, and nerves of the jaw, and on to the circulatory and nervous system of the body. The pulp brings nutrients that help with the ongoing formation of dentin, the highly calcified material that accounts for about 75% of the bulk of a tooth.
If the pulp becomes infected and dies, the dentin will not get the nutrition it needs. It will gradually dry up and the tooth will become brittle. If the dead pulp is not removed through a root canal therapy procedure, the tooth may turn yellow, gray, or black. Once a root canal therapy procedure is complete, since the tooth is without a nervous system or blood supply, it is a necessity to protect your tooth with a crown or 'cap' that helps to strengthen this tooth. The crown, once placed, reduces the risk of tooth fracture after a root canal therapy significantly. Without having the crown placed, your tooth would be at very high risk of fracture and may possibly need to be removed if it fractures. One of the goals of a good oral hygiene program is to prevent decay of the enamel and dentin that protect the pulp.
Brought to you as a community service by Chips Dental Associates, LLC.
For more information or questions, please visit www.chipsdentalLLC.com
A: Inside every tooth, protected by the casing of enamel, is a mass of tissue that holds the nerves and blood vessels that are essential to the health of the tooth. People generally refer to the pulp as the 'nerve' of the tooth because it's extremely sensitive and painful when exposed. Through tiny openings in the tips of the roots of the teeth, the vessels and nerves in the tooth connect with the arteries, veins, and nerves of the jaw, and on to the circulatory and nervous system of the body. The pulp brings nutrients that help with the ongoing formation of dentin, the highly calcified material that accounts for about 75% of the bulk of a tooth.
If the pulp becomes infected and dies, the dentin will not get the nutrition it needs. It will gradually dry up and the tooth will become brittle. If the dead pulp is not removed through a root canal therapy procedure, the tooth may turn yellow, gray, or black. Once a root canal therapy procedure is complete, since the tooth is without a nervous system or blood supply, it is a necessity to protect your tooth with a crown or 'cap' that helps to strengthen this tooth. The crown, once placed, reduces the risk of tooth fracture after a root canal therapy significantly. Without having the crown placed, your tooth would be at very high risk of fracture and may possibly need to be removed if it fractures. One of the goals of a good oral hygiene program is to prevent decay of the enamel and dentin that protect the pulp.
Brought to you as a community service by Chips Dental Associates, LLC.
For more information or questions, please visit www.chipsdentalLLC.com
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Importance of Mouth Guards
Q: Why are mouth guards important for athletes?
A: For athletes engaged in certain high-contact sports like hockey and football, the benefits of wearing a mouth guard are obvious. Dental injuries can be permanent and, in some cases, though, they are costly.
The American Dental Association advocates the wearing of mouth guards as the most effective defense against sports-related dental injuries. They cushion blows that might otherwise result in chipped or broken teeth and severe lacerations to the lip or tongue. Additionally, the ADA notes that athletes at all levels, organized or unorganized, recreational or competitive, are at risk for dental injury. Even individual recreational activities like skating and gymnastics can expose a person to a mouth injury.
Ideally an athlete should be wearing a mouth guard during any physical activity, from riding bikes to playing football. The standard "boil-and-bite" type mouth guard offers the minimum protection required to help prevent dental and other injuries, but are not the most effective and can be uncomfortable to wear. The most comprehensive protection and comfortable fit is achieved by a custom made mouth guard. These are made from an impression or mold of your teeth taken at Chips Dental Associates. The dental laboratory technician can then manufacture a mouth guard just for your teeth. It will stay in on it's own and does not obstruct breathing. Although these are more costly than those available in the sporting goods store, they more than make up for the added costs with added protection. As mentioned before, if it prevents one dental injury, it has paid for itself.
Mouth guards also play a role in minimizing the occurrence or severity of concussion. Some experts maintain the shock absorption quality of a mouth guard can take the sting off some blows that cause concussion.
Chips Dental Associates, LLC is committed to helping our community protect their teeth and reduce the risk of concussions. We have partnered with local schools to provide custom mouth guards for student athletes at a reduced fee. If you are a student or parent from a local school, please contact our office for more information.
Brought to you as a community service by Chips Dental Associates, LLC.
For more information or questions, visit www.chipsdentalLLC.com
A: For athletes engaged in certain high-contact sports like hockey and football, the benefits of wearing a mouth guard are obvious. Dental injuries can be permanent and, in some cases, though, they are costly.
The American Dental Association advocates the wearing of mouth guards as the most effective defense against sports-related dental injuries. They cushion blows that might otherwise result in chipped or broken teeth and severe lacerations to the lip or tongue. Additionally, the ADA notes that athletes at all levels, organized or unorganized, recreational or competitive, are at risk for dental injury. Even individual recreational activities like skating and gymnastics can expose a person to a mouth injury.
Ideally an athlete should be wearing a mouth guard during any physical activity, from riding bikes to playing football. The standard "boil-and-bite" type mouth guard offers the minimum protection required to help prevent dental and other injuries, but are not the most effective and can be uncomfortable to wear. The most comprehensive protection and comfortable fit is achieved by a custom made mouth guard. These are made from an impression or mold of your teeth taken at Chips Dental Associates. The dental laboratory technician can then manufacture a mouth guard just for your teeth. It will stay in on it's own and does not obstruct breathing. Although these are more costly than those available in the sporting goods store, they more than make up for the added costs with added protection. As mentioned before, if it prevents one dental injury, it has paid for itself.
Mouth guards also play a role in minimizing the occurrence or severity of concussion. Some experts maintain the shock absorption quality of a mouth guard can take the sting off some blows that cause concussion.
Chips Dental Associates, LLC is committed to helping our community protect their teeth and reduce the risk of concussions. We have partnered with local schools to provide custom mouth guards for student athletes at a reduced fee. If you are a student or parent from a local school, please contact our office for more information.
Brought to you as a community service by Chips Dental Associates, LLC.
For more information or questions, visit www.chipsdentalLLC.com
Monday, April 26, 2010
Salivary Glands
Q: Where does saliva come from?
A: Saliva, a mixture of water, mucous and other substances, is secreted into your mouth through your salivary glands. You have three pairs of major salivary glands - the parotids, which are the largest and are in your cheeks; the sublingual, which are under your tongue, and the submandibular, which are under your jaw. Additionally, numerous minor glands inside your lips and cheeks also contribute to what is normally a steady, small flow of saliva. The presence of - and sometimes just the anticipation of - food, can stimulate the glands to produce a heavy amount, hence the descriptive phrase "mouth-watering."
Saliva has many functions. The most important is to moisten the food we eat so that we can shape it into a ball, called a bolus, for swallowing. Saliva also helps us taste food. Our taste buds react only to moist food. Saliva also is important in helping to fight tooth decay. It helps your tongue wash away food particles and because saliva is slightly alkaline, it neutralizes some of the acids produced in your mouth by bacteria.
Patients who have had cancer in the head and neck region and have received radiation therapy are at risk for developing xerostomia or chronic dry-mouth. This happens because the function of their salivary glands has been reduced due to this treatment. Patients who are on a variety of medications can also develop this problem as a side effect or from the interaction of multiple medications. When this happens, patients are at risk for developing a higher rate of decay and may benefit from a fluoride preventive program. Chips Dental Associates has an excellent program to help these patients. Additionally there are many saliva replacement products available. If you are suffering from chronic dry-mouth or think you are, ask your hygienist or one of the doctors the next time you visit Chips Dental Associates for more information and some samples.
Brought to you as a community service by Chips Dental Associates, LLC.
For more information or questions, please visit www.chipsdentalLLC.com
A: Saliva, a mixture of water, mucous and other substances, is secreted into your mouth through your salivary glands. You have three pairs of major salivary glands - the parotids, which are the largest and are in your cheeks; the sublingual, which are under your tongue, and the submandibular, which are under your jaw. Additionally, numerous minor glands inside your lips and cheeks also contribute to what is normally a steady, small flow of saliva. The presence of - and sometimes just the anticipation of - food, can stimulate the glands to produce a heavy amount, hence the descriptive phrase "mouth-watering."
Saliva has many functions. The most important is to moisten the food we eat so that we can shape it into a ball, called a bolus, for swallowing. Saliva also helps us taste food. Our taste buds react only to moist food. Saliva also is important in helping to fight tooth decay. It helps your tongue wash away food particles and because saliva is slightly alkaline, it neutralizes some of the acids produced in your mouth by bacteria.
Patients who have had cancer in the head and neck region and have received radiation therapy are at risk for developing xerostomia or chronic dry-mouth. This happens because the function of their salivary glands has been reduced due to this treatment. Patients who are on a variety of medications can also develop this problem as a side effect or from the interaction of multiple medications. When this happens, patients are at risk for developing a higher rate of decay and may benefit from a fluoride preventive program. Chips Dental Associates has an excellent program to help these patients. Additionally there are many saliva replacement products available. If you are suffering from chronic dry-mouth or think you are, ask your hygienist or one of the doctors the next time you visit Chips Dental Associates for more information and some samples.
Brought to you as a community service by Chips Dental Associates, LLC.
For more information or questions, please visit www.chipsdentalLLC.com
Monday, April 19, 2010
Does Gum Disease Affect my Overall Health
Q: Does Gum Disease affect my overall health?
A: Current literature suggests a strong relationship between gum disease or periodontal disease and overall health. There are relationships between gum disease and heart disease, diabetes, pregnancy outcomes, kidney function, and even Alzheimer's disease.
Periodontal disease is a chronic infection inside the gums. The disease has a hereditary component but is also contageous. The hereditary component is immune mediated and is a shortfall of certain functions of the immune system. This allows bacteria to infiltrate this delicate area and slowly breaks down the tissues that connect your tooth to your mouth. The contageous component shows up in families or couples. The exchange of the virulent bacteria through utensils and personal contact will inocculate those closest to you and potentiate the process of developing periodontal disease.
The following diagram shows the progression of the disease from healthy gums and tissues through advanced periodontal disease. It was taken from an ADA pamphlet published about Periodontal disease.
Patients with diabetes are at higher risk for developing periodontal disease. Their immune system is less able to handle the chronic inflammation and therefore their tissues are more succeptible to this disease. With good oral hygiene and regular check-ups there is no additional risk, however when proper oral hygiene protocol and regular check-ups are not maintained, the risk of developing periodontal disease increases significantly. This maintenance can help patients with diabetes to better maintain their blood sugar levels as well.
There are higher risks of lower birth weight and pre-term birth in patients with periodontal disease. There is a documented relationship between the periodontal status of an expectant mother and her newborn baby's weight as well as the incidence of premature birth. This simply means that if you are expecting, it's important to maintain your oral hygiene for the health of your child. Regular check-ups and good oral hygiene will help to reduce this risk.
It is clear that kidney function and Alzheimer's disease are both related to periodontal disease, however the link is still being studied. The link is particularly noticeable in patients with impaired kidney function or if they are on dialysis.
Another relationship to realize is that each of these diseases can have a multiplier effect on your risk of developing the other. For example, a patient with uncontrolled diabetes and rampant periodontal disease will be at much higher risk of having heart disease.
Most Physicians are not trained to recognize the signs of periodontal disease, recognizing the diseases associated with periodontal disease can be an important method of screening patients who are at risk for periodontal disease. If your Physician diagnoses you with one of these other diseases it would be beneficial to schedule a periodontal screening with Chips Dental Associates. The staff at Chips Dental Associates are highly trained at recognizing the signs of periodontal disease and can help you to maintain your oral and overall health.
Brought to you as a community service by Chips Dental Associates, LLC.
For more information or questions, visit www.chipsdentalLLC.com
A: Current literature suggests a strong relationship between gum disease or periodontal disease and overall health. There are relationships between gum disease and heart disease, diabetes, pregnancy outcomes, kidney function, and even Alzheimer's disease.
Periodontal disease is a chronic infection inside the gums. The disease has a hereditary component but is also contageous. The hereditary component is immune mediated and is a shortfall of certain functions of the immune system. This allows bacteria to infiltrate this delicate area and slowly breaks down the tissues that connect your tooth to your mouth. The contageous component shows up in families or couples. The exchange of the virulent bacteria through utensils and personal contact will inocculate those closest to you and potentiate the process of developing periodontal disease.
The following diagram shows the progression of the disease from healthy gums and tissues through advanced periodontal disease. It was taken from an ADA pamphlet published about Periodontal disease.
Patients with diabetes are at higher risk for developing periodontal disease. Their immune system is less able to handle the chronic inflammation and therefore their tissues are more succeptible to this disease. With good oral hygiene and regular check-ups there is no additional risk, however when proper oral hygiene protocol and regular check-ups are not maintained, the risk of developing periodontal disease increases significantly. This maintenance can help patients with diabetes to better maintain their blood sugar levels as well.
There are higher risks of lower birth weight and pre-term birth in patients with periodontal disease. There is a documented relationship between the periodontal status of an expectant mother and her newborn baby's weight as well as the incidence of premature birth. This simply means that if you are expecting, it's important to maintain your oral hygiene for the health of your child. Regular check-ups and good oral hygiene will help to reduce this risk.
It is clear that kidney function and Alzheimer's disease are both related to periodontal disease, however the link is still being studied. The link is particularly noticeable in patients with impaired kidney function or if they are on dialysis.
Another relationship to realize is that each of these diseases can have a multiplier effect on your risk of developing the other. For example, a patient with uncontrolled diabetes and rampant periodontal disease will be at much higher risk of having heart disease.
Most Physicians are not trained to recognize the signs of periodontal disease, recognizing the diseases associated with periodontal disease can be an important method of screening patients who are at risk for periodontal disease. If your Physician diagnoses you with one of these other diseases it would be beneficial to schedule a periodontal screening with Chips Dental Associates. The staff at Chips Dental Associates are highly trained at recognizing the signs of periodontal disease and can help you to maintain your oral and overall health.
Brought to you as a community service by Chips Dental Associates, LLC.
For more information or questions, visit www.chipsdentalLLC.com
Monday, April 12, 2010
A Primer on New Dentures
Q: What are some common problems with new dentures?
A: New dentures are most likely going to feel a bit awkward for the first few weeks. The muscles of your cheeks and tongue have to learn to keep them in place. Soreness and irritation are also not uncommon at the beginning. Eating will also take a little getting used to. Dr. Chips will probably suggest you start off with soft foods cut into small pieces. As you become more comfortable, you can return all your favorites to your diet.
You might also find pronouncing certain words to be challenging. Reading out loud and repeating the troublesome words can help. Dr. Chips will advise you on how long to wear your dentures. At the outset, he may recommend that you wear them most of the time, including while sleeping. After an initial adjustment period, your dentist will most likely want you to remove your dentures at night.
For whatever minor inconveniences your new dentures might cause, just remember that they are going to improve your smile and help you eat properly. The Drs. Chips will be able to answer whatever other questions you may have about dentures. Many patients are very happy with a new set of dentures as tooth replacement therapy, however make sure that you investigate all of your options before deciding upon which tooth replacement is the best for you. Crowns, bridges, implants and partials are all acceptable and beneficial for replacing any teeth that are in poor condition and in need of replacement.
Brought to you as a community service by Chips Dental Associates, LLC.
For more information or questions, please visit www.chipsdentalLLC.com
A: New dentures are most likely going to feel a bit awkward for the first few weeks. The muscles of your cheeks and tongue have to learn to keep them in place. Soreness and irritation are also not uncommon at the beginning. Eating will also take a little getting used to. Dr. Chips will probably suggest you start off with soft foods cut into small pieces. As you become more comfortable, you can return all your favorites to your diet.
You might also find pronouncing certain words to be challenging. Reading out loud and repeating the troublesome words can help. Dr. Chips will advise you on how long to wear your dentures. At the outset, he may recommend that you wear them most of the time, including while sleeping. After an initial adjustment period, your dentist will most likely want you to remove your dentures at night.
For whatever minor inconveniences your new dentures might cause, just remember that they are going to improve your smile and help you eat properly. The Drs. Chips will be able to answer whatever other questions you may have about dentures. Many patients are very happy with a new set of dentures as tooth replacement therapy, however make sure that you investigate all of your options before deciding upon which tooth replacement is the best for you. Crowns, bridges, implants and partials are all acceptable and beneficial for replacing any teeth that are in poor condition and in need of replacement.
Brought to you as a community service by Chips Dental Associates, LLC.
For more information or questions, please visit www.chipsdentalLLC.com
Monday, April 5, 2010
Dental Care and Overall Health
Q: Does dental health carry implications beyond the mouth?
A: The simple answer to this is a resounding YES. Studies have shown that taking good care of your teeth and gums can lower your risk for heart disease. Researchers have found that people who suffer from gum disease, also called periodontal disease, are twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease as those without gum disease. The bacteria that breed under the gums can spread to other parts of the body, including the blood vessels of the heart.
Also, earlier this year, the journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology cited the case of a California woman who had a stillborn birth. Doctors determined that the baby's stomach and lungs contained the same strain of oral bacteria that the 35-year-old mother had in her untreated gum disease.
It's not uncommon for pregnant women to experience bleeding gums as a result of hormonal changes. If you're in that situation, check with the Drs. Chips about the cause of bleeding. For the rest of us, it's a good idea to talk with the Drs. Chips and your primary care physician about the importance of oral health in overall well-being.
Brought to you as a community service by Chips Dental Associates, LLC.
For more information or questions, visit www.chipsdentalllc.com
A: The simple answer to this is a resounding YES. Studies have shown that taking good care of your teeth and gums can lower your risk for heart disease. Researchers have found that people who suffer from gum disease, also called periodontal disease, are twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease as those without gum disease. The bacteria that breed under the gums can spread to other parts of the body, including the blood vessels of the heart.
Also, earlier this year, the journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology cited the case of a California woman who had a stillborn birth. Doctors determined that the baby's stomach and lungs contained the same strain of oral bacteria that the 35-year-old mother had in her untreated gum disease.
It's not uncommon for pregnant women to experience bleeding gums as a result of hormonal changes. If you're in that situation, check with the Drs. Chips about the cause of bleeding. For the rest of us, it's a good idea to talk with the Drs. Chips and your primary care physician about the importance of oral health in overall well-being.
Brought to you as a community service by Chips Dental Associates, LLC.
For more information or questions, visit www.chipsdentalllc.com
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