Diabetes and your dental health: How your dentist can help

If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, it’s important that you let your dentist know so that they can give you the best care possible.

As more than 15 million Americans have diabetes, your dentist will be familiar with the issues and will give you the specialist care you need.

This is important because diabetes can lower your resistance to infection and slow the healing process.

It’s important to tell your dentist:

– If you have been diagnosed with .diabetes
– If the disease is under control
– If there has been any other change in your medical history
– Names of all prescription and over-the-counter drugs you are taking

The most common oral health problems associated with diabetes are:

– Tooth decay
– Periodontal (gum) disease
– Salivary gland dysfunction
– Fungal infections
– Infection and delayed healing
– Taste impairment

If you have regular dental checkups – and keep your dentist informed about your status – they’ll be able to help you reduce and manage these risks.

Diabetes and your dental health: How your dentist can help

If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, it’s important that you let your dentist know so that they can give you the best care possible.

As more than 15 million Americans have diabetes, your dentist will be familiar with the issues and will give you the specialist care you need.

This is important because diabetes can lower your resistance to infection and slow the healing process.

It’s important to tell your dentist:

– If you have been diagnosed with .diabetes
– If the disease is under control
– If there has been any other change in your medical history
– Names of all prescription and over-the-counter drugs you are taking

The most common oral health problems associated with diabetes are:

– Tooth decay
– Periodontal (gum) disease
– Salivary gland dysfunction
– Fungal infections
– Infection and delayed healing
– Taste impairment

If you have regular dental checkups – and keep your dentist informed about your status – they’ll be able to help you reduce and manage these risks.

Solving the problem of bad breath

Bad breath – which is also known as halitosis – is a worrying problem that can also be embarrassing.

But there's no need to put up with it. If you suffer from bad breath, your dentist will be able to suggest a range of solutions.

Your dentist will be able to spot problems such as gum disease, dry mouth or other disorders. That's why its important to maintain good oral hygiene, schedule regular visits to the dentist and have professional cleaning.

Make sure you brush your teeth twice a day and clean between your teeth each day using floss or interdental cleaners. Don’t forget to brush your tongue, too!

If your dental check up shows that your mouth is healthy, your dentist may refer you to your family physician as sometimes bad breath can be a sign of other health problems.

If the odor is due to periodontal (gum) disease, sometimes professional periodontal cleaning is needed to remove the bacteria and plaque that accumulate. And your dentist may recommend a special antimicrobial mouth rinse.

Keeping your mouth healthy and stopping periodontal disease are essential to reducing bad breath.

So make sure you schedule regular dental visits for a professional cleaning and checkup.

Building a strong relationship with your dentist

You’ll give yourself the best chance of good oral health if you build a strong relationship with your dentist.

That can sometimes mean asking the right questions and helping them to assist you in the best way possible.

So you want to make sure you have a dentist who will first of all explain techniques that you should use to help prevent dental health problems. They should be willing to show you step-by-step what you need to do.

You should also choose a dentist who is willing to take time to answer your questions, especially when they are recommending a course of treatment.

If you don’t understand any part of what your dentist recommends, don’t be afraid to ask for more information.

You may want to ask if there are other options to the solution they recommend. For example:

– How do the options differ in cost?
– Which solution will last the longest?
– Do all the options solve the problem?

Ask the dentist which treatments are absolutely necessary, which are elective and Which are cosmetic.

Ask which procedures are urgently needed, and which ones are less urgent. Your dentist will help you prioritize between problems which need immediate attention and those that are less urgent.

Often, treatment can be planned over a period of time but make sure you understand any consequences of delaying treatment.

It’s naturally also important to make sure that you are given full information about fees and payment plans before treatment is scheduled.

What to do if your tooth cracks

While our teeth are normally very strong, they can crack for a number of reasons.

Reasons could include tooth decay, trauma/injury, grinding of the teeth or a stress fracture.

Sometimes, our jaw may be stronger than our teeth and the teeth can fracture when we bite heavily on food.

We can protect our teeth in some circumstances – for example it may be advisable to wear a mouthguard during sports.

Taking proper care of the teeth and regular visits to the dentist will help keep your teeth in good shape.

If a tooth cracks, it may become painful if the nerve is exposed and the area can become tender.

If this happens, rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Then call your dentist immediately.

Treatment will depend on where the tooth has fractured, how close it is to the nerve and the overall condition of the tooth.

A cracked tooth may be repaired with silver alloy, gold, porcelain or plastic. Or it may require a crown or overlay or bonding, which applies porcelain or enamel to the fractured tooth.

If you contact your dentist quickly, they will be able to take the most approriate action to preserve the tooth as much as possible.

The facts about oral cancer

Oral cancer is not as well known as other types of cancer but it can represent a life-threatening risk if not identified early.

– It strikes an estimated 35,000 Americans each year
– More than 7,500 people (5,200 men and 2,307 women) die of these cancers each year
– More than 25% of Americans who get oral cancer will die of the disease
– On average, only half of those diagnosed with the disease will survive more than five years
– African-Americans are especially vulnerable; the incidence rate is 1/3 higher than whites and the mortality rate is almost twice as high

Although the use of tobacco and alcohol are risk factors in developing oral cancer, approximately 25% of oral cancer patients have no known risk factors.

There has been a nearly five-fold increase in incidence in oral cancer patients under age 40, many with no known risk factors.

The incidence of oral cancer in women has increased significantly, largely due to an increase in women smoking. In 1950 the male to female ratio was 6:1; by 2002, it was 2:1.

The best way to prevent oral cancer is to avoid tobacco and alcohol use.

Unusual red or white spots can form in and around the mouth. These are often harmless but they can be cancerous or pre-cancerous.

Identifying and removing these early enough is a major factor in reducing the incidence of cancer.

So knowing the risk factors and seeing your dentist for regular examinations can help prevent this deadly disease.

Action steps to prevent gum disease

Gum disease is a major cause of tooth loss in adults but it can be prevented or reversed if you take the right steps.

Its caused by plaque a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on the teeth. These bacteria create toxins that can damage the gums.

However, you can help avoid gum disease by caring properly for your teeth and having regular dental checkups. These are some steps you can take to keep your teeth and gums healthy:

Brush your teeth well twice a day: This removes the film of bacteria from the teeth. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush that is in good condition. Toothpastes and mouth rinses containing fluoride strengthen the teeth and help prevent decay.

Clean between your teeth every day: You need to remove the bacteria and food particles that a toothbrush can’t reach so you should clean between your teeth with floss or interdental cleaners every day. Your dentist will show you how to do this properly without injuring your gums.

Even if you already have early stage gum disease, it can often be reversed by daily brushing and flossing.

Eat a balanced diet: A good diet based on a variety of foods from the basic food groups, such as grain products; fruits; vegetables; meat, poultry and fish; and dairy products will help your teeth. Its also a good idea to limit snacks between meals.

Visit your dentist regularly: To prevent gum disease, its important to have regular dental checkups and professional cleaning.

Taking the right steps will help you avoid gum disease and can even reverse it if you catch it in the early stages.

Invisalign Straightens Teeth Without Braces!

Endre Selmeczy, D.M.D. is certified and offering the popular Invisalign system which uses a series of clear, removable aligners to adjust your teeth over time, eliminating uncomfortable and undesirable metal braces.

The Invisalign treatment consists of a series of aligners that you switch out about every two weeks. Each aligner is individually manufactured with exact calculations to gradually shift your teeth into place. It is custom-made for your teeth and is the best way to transform your smile without interfering with your day-to-day life. Check out the benefits below:

-Custom-fitted aligners for maximum performance

-Effective, with improvement noticeable during treatment process

-Removable for eating, flossing or special occasions

-Comfort with smooth edges

-Clarity so no one knows you are straightening your teeth

Your custom-made smile program. Your treatment plan begins with a consultation with Dr. Selmeczy where you will discuss the options to treat your particular issue. When you begin treatment, you’ll wear each set of aligners in approximately two-week increments. The aligners gently move your teeth into position, and at the end of each two-week period, you “graduate” to the next set of custom aligners. You will have occasional checkups – often as little as once every six weeks – in order to gauge your progress and you can usually see positive changes to your smile early in the process.

For most adults, treatment time is just under one year. Of course, your total treatment time depends on your particular situation. Before you schedule your consultation with Dr. Selmeczy, it’s a good idea to take the self-assessment at www.invisalign.com to figure out if the Invisalign system is for you. Then take the results with you to your initial consultation.

Offers Sedation Dentistry

Sedation Dentistry

If you're afraid to go to the Dentist, you're at the right place. We can take care of your dental needs with no discomfort at all. With Sedation Dentistry, you'll feel like you slept through your appointments. You'll be sedated just enough to be unaware of the treatment, as if you were asleep. You'll wake up refreshed, with little or no memory of what was accomplished. Because you are completely comfortable, we can do years' worth of dental treatments in one or two visits. People with very busy schedules can get the dental care they need, easily and quickly.

 

How Does Oral Sedation Work?

 

You are given a small pill to take an hour prior to your dental appointment. Your companion will accompany you to the office. By the time you arrive, you will be very drowsy. When you arrive in our office, you will be escorted to the comfort room and covered with a thick, warm blanket. You will be placed on a monitor so that we can watch your vital signs. You may be asked to take an additional pill, depending upon how sleepy you are. After you are comfortable, we will take care of your dental needs. When your treatment is completed, your companion will return you home to finish your comfortable, relaxing day.

It is safe! You take a small pill prior to your treatment - there are no intravenous tubes or needles. Complex Dental Treatments that usually require up to eight appointments can be completed in a little as one or two appointments. People who have difficulty getting numb find that Sedation Dentistry eliminates this problem. Sedation dentistry is a safe way to reduce the fatigue of extended dental treatment requiring long visits.

Good candidates for oral sedation are people who:

* have a high fear level
* have had traumatic dental experiences
* have difficulty getting numb
* experience a severe gag reflex
* have very sensitive teeth
* have complex dental problems
* have limited time to Complete Dental Care
* hate needles and shots
* hate the noises, smells, and tastes associated with dentistry
* are afraid or embarrassed about their teeth

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will I feel pain?

No, you won't.

2. Will I be unconscious?

No. you will be in a deeply relaxed state, and you will be responsive.

3. Will I be monitored?

Yes, one of our team members is always with you and your vital signs are monitored during the entire visit. You are never alone.

4. How long will I be asleep?

Depending upon your needs, from two to six hours.

5. Will someone need to accompany me?

Yes, due to the sedative effects of the medication, you will need someone to drive you to our office and home again.

Offers General Dentistry

Our caring staff believes in providing a comfortable atmosphere during your visit to our office. We provide gentle, family-oriented Dental Care to adults and children.

Our services cover all aspects of Dentistry and utilize state-of-the-art equipment and sterilization techniques. We can take care of all of your family members' dental needs.

Advice To Keep Your Teeth Healthy And Clean

There is a lot more to proper dental hygiene than just brushing, flossing, and going to the Dentist. These are important, of course, but they are just a starting point. If you really want to keep your teeth strong and healthy, you need to use the advanced tips found in this article.

If you are worried about getting work done on your teeth, speak to the dentist prior to your appointment. This will give him or her a heads up on how you are feeling, and they can figure out how to best reassure you. Try to be specific about exactly what it is that you don't like about the process.

For the sake of your teeth, cut down on your sugar intake! Your teeth will suffer from these items. It can be helpful to drink teeth-staining drinks with a straw, in order to bypass your teeth completely. You can also protect your teeth by brushing as soon as you can after eating.

Teach your kids proper dental habits from the beginning. When your children get their first teeth in, brush the teeth for them. Once your child is old enough, teach him how to brush teeth on his own. Get a big timer and put 2 minutes on it for your child to make sure he is brushing for long enough, and take him to his first dental appointment when he turns three.

Don't forget back teeth when brushing. It's easy to only stick with the teeth that you're able to see in a mirror, but your teeth will start to decay if they don't get any attention paid to them. Spend some time on each tooth when brushing and flossing.

A healthy diet is one of the best things you can do to make sure your teeth stay health. Avoiding sugary drinks and foods is important to avoid harming the enamel of your teeth. Fresh fruits and vegetables are the best choice when it comes to promoting healthy teeth and gums.

You can efficiently prevent tooth decay by using a mouth wash that contains fluoride. You should check the labels of the products you buy and look for fluoride. Do not take a fluoride supplement if you decide to use some mouth wash or toothpaste that is already enriched in fluoride.

If you have gum inflammation or you are susceptible to it, it is important that you avoid hot foods and drinks. These foods and beverages only cause gum inflammation and irritate problems you already have. If this is a problem for you, stick to either cool or warm foods and beverages.

To help protect your children from swallowing too much toothpaste supervise their brushing. Use only a small amount of toothpaste. Dentists generally recommend using a small pea sized amount of toothpaste for children under six years old to help protect their health. During your child's tooth brushing routine, explain the importance of brushing each tooth properly.

After reading this article, you should realize that there is a lot more to proper dental hygiene than you ever realized. By arming yourself with this advice, you can make sure that your teeth stay in good shape for years to come. Incorporate this advice into your daily dental care routine for the best results.

Healthy Smile Makes You Happier!

Are you interested in improving your Dental Care but don't know where to begin? Maybe you already practice good dental care habits but would like additional information? Either way, the following article is here to help anyone looking for a cleaner mouth to help avoid any costly dentist trip. Keep reading for tips on dental care.

Brush two times a day. The ADA recommends doing this, so it's based on sound advice. This is the bare minimum you should do to protect your teeth, so make it a part of your daily routine. These are also great times to floss.

Use another toothpaste if your teeth are sensitive. However, before switching toothpaste, visit your dentist. Your dentist can rule out other sensitive teeth causes.

If you're nervous about having procedures done, practice deep breathing. Breathe through the entire experience. Being honest with your Dentist about your fears can help you feel more comfortable during your visits.

Eat as many citrus fruits as possible to keep your teeth healthy. Vitamin C helps your teeth stay strong, so you are less likely to have tooth decay if you eat plenty of oranges, lemons limes and other citrus fruits each day. However, sucking oranges or lemons can put your teeth in contact with acid that contributes to decay.

Choose some waxed floss if you are having a hard time with flossing. This type of floss is easier to hold. You could also get a floss-holder to help you clean your teeth efficiently or replace floss with a dental pick to clean between your teeth. You will still have to use floss to remove the plaque from your teeth.

Brush your teeth twice a week with baking soda. Use it just like you would toothpaste normally. Baking soda will help whiten your teeth over time. You can also use regular salt as a replacement. Just remember never to swallow either, otherwise your sodium levels might get higher than they should.

Flossing once daily is an important part of your dental hygiene routine. Flossing really does make a difference. Place the floss between your teeth. Move the floss back and forth to clean the gap thoroughly. Don't allow your floss to slide under your gums. Instead, keep it at your gum line. Carefully make the floss go back and forth to clean every tooth.

Try rinsing your mouth after you eat. Brushing is still the best way to clean teeth after meals, but sometimes you can't do that. This is where rinsing can be handy. When rinsing, you're removing leftover food on your teeth and in your mouth. You're also helping to neutralize your mouth's pH levels.

A toothache has been said to be right up there, if not worse than labor pains. For this reason, it is important to address a toothache at the very first sign of pain. Don't assume that the pain will just pass. Get it checked out to make sure there is not something more serious going on like an abscess, which can turn serious rather quickly.

After reading the above article you should fully understand what is needed to help care for your mouth. Follow the steps in this article and use it as a guide each day to give you that cleaner mouth. Tell your family about these great tips so everyone around you can have a whiter smile.