According to an article recently published by the Washington Post, scientists are repeatedly seeing a connection between oral health and heart conditions. In the milder form of gum disease, gingivitis, infection leads to inflammation and left untreated is a precursor to more advanced stages of periodontal disease.

The bacteria that cause these diseases release toxins that can circulate in the body. Especially in the body’s arterial system. The more advanced the gum disease, the thicker and harder the walls of the arteries become, thus causing narrowing of the arteries and this is a key factor in heart disease.

Gum diseases have been shown to contribute to diabetes, kidney disease, pre-term labor, osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s and certain types of cancer.

With proper deep cleanings and removal of these bacterial build-ups on a regular basis, caught in early stages, may help prevent or lessen the effects of these conditions and lead to a healthier heart.

- Trenna Nelson, RDH

Hygienist’s Advicewritten by Our RDH Natalya Whittington

Dental floss (or dental tape) helps remove debris between the teeth and prevent plaque formation by removing the film of bacteria before it has a chance to harden into plaque. Flossing also reduces the likelihood of gum disease and tooth decay. Brushing alone cannot clean effectively between these tight spaces. Once made from silk fibers, today’s floss is usually made from nylon filaments or plastic monofilaments. It may be treated with flavoring agents, such as mint, to make flossing more pleasant.

The ADA does not recommend using a floss strand more than once. Used floss might fray, lose its effectiveness or may deposit bacteria in the mouth.

You can floss before or after brushing your teeth as long as you do a thorough job. If you use dental floss before you brush, the fluoride from the toothpaste has a better chance of reaching between teeth. Some people brush their teeth and unfortunately skip flossing for any number of reasons. That’s not a good idea.

Interdental cleaners are special wooden or plastic picks, sticks or brushes that are used to clean between teeth. Here are some of our favorites:

Proxabrush cleans between the teeth and also can be used to clean around the implants. It can have cylindrical or tapered shape, and is available in thin or ultra thin size.

Stim-U-Dent Plaque Removers are soft wooden cleaners that clean between the teeth and gently invigorate gums.

Squirt Brush is cylindrical proxy brush tip that attaches to a liquid reservoir that can be filled with an antibacterial rinse or your favorite mouthwash. Helps irrigate the interdental area between teeth during use to help flush away debris. Replaceable brush tips are available below and should be changed after each use.

Rubber tip stimulator is designed for gingival (gum) massage and interdental (between the teeth) cleaning. The rubber tip is latex free.

Floss Threaders can be used to remove plaque around bridges, braces and implants. Designed to slide easily between tooth surface and appliances.

Tooth decay is a spot on a tooth where enough of the mineral content has been lost and a hole has formed. The process of deminerali-zation takes place because of the presence of acids on a tooth’s surface.

The acids that cause cavity formation are produced by specific types of bacteria that live in dental plaque. The bacteria that cause tooth decay utilize sugars as their food source. The waste products created from digesting these sugars are the acids.

Decreasing Tooth Decay
Fluorides have been used worldwide to fight cavities. In the United States, many cities have fluoridated drinking water. Additionally, our office is equipped to provide specific fluoride treatments.

An Ounce of Prevention

• Avoid sugary sodas – Refrain from constantly sipping on sugary drinks. This bombardment of sugary solution bathes your teeth and creates the perfect food source for cavity causing bacteria. It’s much better to drink a serving of a sugary beverage in one sitting and then brushing your teeth or rinsing your mouth. Another option is to switch to sugar free diet drinks.
• Snack on an apple - Substituting fresh fruit or vegetables as a snack instead of soft and sugary foods can help to prevent dental decay. The friction of the chewing process helps break up bacterial colonies living on your teeth and this makes them easier to wash away with a simple glass of water.
• Brush Often - It’s always a good idea to brush your teeth after every meal, but we all know that in our busy society, time for teeth brushing isn’t always available. Another option is to rinse your mouth after eating or drinking cavity promoting foods. A simple swig of water can help to protect your teeth and prevent cavity formation.
• Chew sugarless gum – Another cavity fighting step is to chew sugar-less gum. Chewing gum encourages natural saliva production and helps keep tooth surfaces free of bacterial buildup. Keep a pack of gum handy for use after meals or sugary snacks.
• Regular dental visits – Regular dental visits go a long way in preventing tooth decay. Many procrastinate and put off their trips to the dentist for a number of reasons. However, dental techniques have changed for the better and regular dental care can help prevent the onset of cavities and dental disease.

by Natalya Whittington, RDH

What are dental sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings painted on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. Getting sealants put on is simple and painless. Painted on as a liquid, they quickly harden to form a shield over the surface of the tooth. The most important reason for getting sealants is to avoid tooth decay and save time and money in the long run by avoiding fillings, crowns and gaps.

Who should get sealants?
Children should get sealants on their permanent molars as the teeth come in, before decay gets an opportunity to attack the teeth.
The first permanent molars (the 6 year molars) come in between the ages of 5 and 7.
The second permanent molars (the 12 year molars) come in when a child is between 11 and 14 years old.
Other teeth with pits and groove also might need to sealed.
Teenagers and young adults who are prone to decay may also need sealants

Should sealants be put on baby teeth?
Baby teeth save space for permanent teeth. It is important to keep baby teeth healthy so they don’t fall out early. Sealants can last up to 10 years but they need to be checked at regular dental check-ups to make sure they are not chipped or worn away. The dentist or dental hygienist can repair sealants by adding more sealant material.