Dental Tips For A Fantastic Mouth In 2012

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S.

The start of the new year is a great point to drop the bad habits and improve your lifestyle, so our dentists got together to give you tips on how to keep your mouth healthy in 2012!


Minimize soda pop drinking
No surprise there, right? High consumption of soda or other acidic beverages can lead to enamel loss, which you can’t replace.


Use an electric toothbrush
Remember when electric toothbrushes were expensive? Not anymore. There are several options of electric toothbrushes that are affordable and work great. Using an electric toothbrush causes less damage to your gums, requires you to use less force when brushing, and some even come with a timer so you meet the recommended brushing time.

Avoid chewing ice
Some people make a habit of chewing on ice, but biting on hard substances, such as ice cubes, may cause fractures to the teeth or damage fillings.

Mouth guards for active people
If you’re into active sports such as hockey, then cover those pearly whites. Mouth guards not only protect your teeth, but also other important parts of the mouth: cheeks, gums, and lips.

Protect yourself at night with a Bruxism guard
These are recommended for patients who grind or clench their teeth at night due to stress.

Refrain from using your teeth as tools
Who’s guilty of using their teeth to open a water bottle? No worries, in some way we’re all guilty of thinking our teeth are invincible; however, don’t forget your teeth are important and get a lot action as it is, so avoid using them as a tool. Grab someone with a stronger hand or an actual tool.


We hope these tips were helpful and will be useful in making sure your mouth is healthy in 2012! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at 760-323-2771.

Keeping Your Teeth Jolly In The Holiday Season

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S.

Cakes, pies, stuffing, the holidays are a time full of carbohydrate-rich, sugary foods. This can really do a number on your oral health, but there are some simple ways you can help combat cavities while still enjoying Grandma’s pumpkin pie.

If you can, eat those carb-heavy foods such as stuffing and rolls with a balanced meal consisting of some protein. This helps to counteract some of the acids produced when sugars and bacteria in the mouth come together.

Limit your consumption of sticky foods. These foods take longer to chew, meaning they stay in the mouth longer and increase cavity risk.

Carry a travel toothbrush with you to your holiday meal destination, even if you’re just going for the day. Can’t brush your teeth immediately after eating for some reason? Rinse your mouth out with water to remove as much debris and acid as possible.

And try not to graze so much. It’s easy to spend the entire day walking around a party eating snacks, but every time you pop something into your mouth, it creates acids. Spend some time NOT eating on Christmas day to cut down on the buildup of cavity-causing agents.

By following these simple holiday dental care tips, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy while still enjoying your Holiday goodies. Happy holidays!

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Soda: Worst, Best & Alternatives For Your Oral Health

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S.

Someone recently asked us which soda is worst for your teeth, and we realized that’s probably a common question. Everyone knows soda is “bad for your teeth,” but surely some are better than others. Here we’ll explore what it actually does to your teeth and if there are any alternatives.


Some people think that if they drink a diet soda, the lack of sugar eliminates the risk of cavities. Actually, sugar-free soda is not much better, because it still contains acid – in fact, diet soda often contains more acid than regular soft drinks. Phosphoric acid is primarily used in cola, while citric acid is typically found in citrus-flavored drinks. Phosphoric acid is stronger in most cases. the long-run.


Acid levels are ranked on the pH scale where the lower the number, the more acidic the substance is.Battery acid ranks 1.0 on the scale. Studies show that RC Cola ranked 2.39, and most sodas rank near or below a 3. Milk sits around 6.5 on the scale. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, adult fish die in levels 3-5. Acid rain is anywhere from 1-5. Pure water is pH 7, which is neutral.


It’s generally considered that darker-colored soda is slightly worse than light-colored or clear soda. However, both contain astronomically high levels of acid. All soda is destructive to your teeth.


Sugar feeds the bacteria in your mouth, which produces an acidic substance. Acid wears away your enamel, which exposes the softer layers of your teeth to dental decay. Whether you drink regular or diet drinks, they both contain high levels of acid, which essentially just skips a step and puts acid in direct contact with your teeth.

Do: Drink soda through a straw if you want to lower your risk of dental cavities.

Don’t: Brush your teeth right after drinking an acidic beverage, because you’re basically scrubbing the acid into your enamel. Wait a little while, or rise your mouth with water first.


While still containing high acid levels, root beer has been found to be less acidic than other soda, because it typically doesn’t contain phosphoric or citric acid. Some other drinks still contain acid, but they are typically a little better for your teeth because they are all-natural and/or made primarily with real fruit juice. This means that they probably have lower acid levels but also, they don’t contain high-fructose corn syrup or other tooth-destroyers. This includes drinks like:

IZZE Sparkling Juice
Hansen’s Natural Soda
Boylan’s “The Natural Kind”


Studies found that even fruit juice, which can be quite acidic, is still much less damaging than soda. No matter what you drink, the key is to consume it in moderation balanced by plenty of water. If you continue to brush your teeth, floss and swish with mouthwash every day, you will have a much better chance of fighting cavities and keeping your mouth sparkling clean.


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How Holiday Sweets Affect Your Teeth

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S.

The holiday season is in full swing, and you know what that means…cookies at the office, cakes at parties, and gift baskets full of sweet treats. But did you know these holiday delights can do more damage than just expanding your waistline? Sugary foods can have a not-so-sweet impact on your teeth too.

When sugars and starches from food (and drinks) get left behind on your teeth, acids formed from bacteria in your mouth digest these foods and build up to form plaque. This plaque then eats away at your tooth’s enamel, leaving holes—or “cavities”—in your teeth. Snacking on sweets during a holiday party can be especially harmful to your teeth, increasing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Here are a few tips you can use to keep your teeth in good condition throughout the holiday season:


Try to brush and floss after every meal, especially those rich in sugar. If that’s not an option for you, swish water around in your mouth to help rinse out some of the sugar and starch. This applies to treats besides just candy and sweets, it includes things like fruit and wine, as well.

Try to avoid long periods of snacking. This can be really difficult, especially at a party, but the longer those sugars and starches stay on your teeth, the higher your chances for tooth decay.

Come prepared. Bring a toothbrush—travel size will do—so you can freshen up after a party, work event, or snack session. Bonus! This strategy may even help you prevent further snacking. Avoid sticky and chewy foods. They may taste great, but these foods tend to be some of the worst for your teeth—even if they’re healthy!

For more information about how you can take care of your teeth and prevent cavities, or to schedule your next teeth cleaning, contact our office at 760-323-2771.

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Canker Sores, Cold Sores & Common Mouth Sores

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S.

They are annoying and painful and there are plenty of things that can cause them – infections from bacteria, viruses or fungus; a loose orthodontic wire; a denture that doesn’t fit; or a sharp edge from a broken tooth or filling. Mouth sores may be symptoms of a disease or disorder. A dentist should examine any mouth sore that lasts a week or longer. Among the most common mouth sores are:


Canker sores. Small ulcers with a white or gray base and a red border. Canker sores appear inside the mouth. They are not contagious. There may be only one canker sore or several and they can return frequently. Their exact cause is uncertain but some experts believe that immune system problems, bacteria or viruses may be involved.


Fatigue, stress or allergies can increase the likelihood of a canker sore. Some women may be more prone to them in their premenstrual cycle. A cut caused by biting the cheek or tongue, or reactions from hot foods or beverages may contribute to canker sore development. Intestinal problems, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, also seem to make some people more susceptible.


Treating Canker Sores: They usually heal on their own after a week or two. Over-the-counter topical anesthetics and antimicrobial mouthrinses may provide temporary relief. Stay away from hot, spicy or acidic foods that can irritate the sore. See your dentist if the sores do not heal or are painful. Antibiotics from your dentist and some oral bandages can reduce secondary infection.


Cold sores. Annoying and painful, cold sores, also called fever blisters, are groups of fluid-filled blisters. They often erupt around the lips and sometimes under the nose or around the chin. Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 and are very contagious. The initial infection (primary herpes), which often occurs before adulthood, may be confused with a cold or flu and can cause painful lesions to erupt throughout the mouth.


Once a person is infected with primary herpes, the virus stays in the body and causes occasional attacks. Recurring cold sores look like multiple tiny fluid-filled blisters that most commonly appear around the edge of the lips. For some people, the virus remains inactive or dormant. For others, cold sores can follow a fever, sunburn, stress, emotional upsets or a break in the skin.


Treating cold sores: Cold sore blisters usually heal in a week by themselves. Over-the-counter topical anesthetics can provide some relief. Your dentist may prescribe antiviral drugs to reduce these kinds of viral infections.


Leukoplakia.Thick, whitish-color patches that form on the inside of the cheeks, gums or tongue is known as leukoplakia. These patches are caused by excess cell growth and are common among tobacco users. They can result from irritations such as an ill-fitting denture or the habit of chewing on the inside of the cheek. Sometimes leukoplakia is associated with oral cancer. Your dentist may recommend a biopsy if the patch appears threatening.


Treating leukoplakia: The dentist examines the lesion and checks the biopsy results to help determine how to manage the disease. Treatment begins with removing the factors that contribute to the lesion: quitting tobacco or replacing ill-fitting dentures or bridges.


Candidiasis. This fungal infection (also called moniliasis or oral thrush) occurs when the yeast Candida albicans reproduce in large numbers. It is common among denture wearers and most often occurs in people who are very young, elderly, debilitated by diseases like diabetes or leukemia, or who have a problem with their immune system. People who have dry mouth syndrome are very susceptible to candidiasis. Candida may flourish after antibiotic treatment, which can decrease normal bacteria in the mouth.


Treating candidiasis: Control focuses on preventing or controlling the conditions that caused the outbreak. Good oral hygiene is essential. Clean dentures to remove Candida and remove the dentures at bedtime. Saliva substitutes and prescription medications may be helpful when the underlying cause of dry mouth is incurable or unavoidable.


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An Apple A Day Might Keep The Doctor Away, But Not The Dentist

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S.

An apple a day might well keep the doctor away, but the dentist is another matter. Eating apples and other acidic fruit, as well as drinking fruit juices, is roughly four times more potentially harmful to teeth than drinking pop, according to a study published by the U.K.’s Journal of Dentistry.

Surveying more than 1,000 men and women aged 18 to 30, the study found that apple eaters were 3.7 times more likely to suffer damage to their dentine (the layer of the tooth inside the enamel). At the same time, it was shown that fruit juice was four times as damaging as pop, and lager beer three times as harmful.

The research also showed that the speed of consumption was a factor. “Doctors quite rightly say that eating apples is good, but if you eat them slowly the high acidity levels can damage your teeth,” said study leader David Bartlett, a professor at the King’s Dental Institute. “The drinks most often associated with associated with dietary erosion, particularly cola, showed no increased risk in this study.”

“The results emphasize that dietary advice should be targeted at strong acids rather than some of the commonly consumed soft drinks.” The researchers did not advise giving up otherwise healthful fruits and juices, but recommended making short work of their consumption.

“Snacking on acidic foods throughout the day is the most damaging, whilst eating them at meal times is much safer,” Bartlett said. “It’s not what you eat, it’s how you eat it. An apple a day is good, but taking all day to eat the apple can damage teeth.”

Dr. Harry F. Hoediono, president of the Ontario Dental Association, responded to the study by stressing the healthful benefits of apples, but advised rinsing the mouth with water after eating fruit to neutralize the acid. “Also, don’t clean your teeth right after eating,” he said. “If you brush while the acid is still in your mouth you are removing some of your teeth’s surface. If you wait about an hour, the saliva helps remineralize the enamel and makes the enamel more resistant to acid attack.”

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Caring for Your Teeth At Any Age

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S.

Here's a little secret: It's possible to live 100 years and still have your natural teeth. Even if you grind them when you're stressed out, eat a lot of sugary foods, drink too much coffee (which can stain), or occasionally forget to brush and floss, you can still have healthy teeth for many years to come.


If, starting in the teen years, you develop good brushing and flossing habits, you are less likely to have dental problems as you age. People with healthy teeth will actually reduce their risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and have lower blood pressure, if they follow what we ask them to do.


I have some older people who have actually started crying, saying, "If only someone had really made me understand this. If only I had really understood how important a simple thing like brushing and flossing is, and what a difference it would have made.


Good dental care starts in infancy, before teeth even appear, and requires daily attention throughout your lifetime. Here is an easy guide to help you keep your teeth and your smile as healthy as possible.


Childhood


All children should be seen by a dentist by their first birthday, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. The dentist will instruct you on how to keep your baby's mouth clean and tell you how to avoid problems such as baby bottle tooth decay. There should be no bottles or sippy cups with milk or juice in bed. When children go to bed, they do not swallow as often. The teeth are then constantly bathed in a sugary substance. Decay can be so rapid that people think their baby's teeth came in that way.


Even before an infant has teeth, you should wipe his or her mouth daily with a washcloth or specially formulated dental wipes to help eliminate bacteria that can cause thrush, an oral yeast infection marked by irritation and white patches in the mouth. Move on to a soft toothbrush once teeth erupt, brushing at least once a day. As a rule, children cannot be expected to brush their own teeth properly until they have developed the fine motor control that allows them to write in cursive, around age 8. Flossing should start as soon as a child's teeth are touching, usually by age 3.


Schedule dental visits with us twice a year, and ask us about dental sealants, which can protect teeth against decay. If you use well water, be sure to ask whether fluoride supplements are necessary.


Adolescence


As children enter adolescence, their new set of adult teeth is at an increased risk for cavities and gum disease. That's because brushing and flossing has now become their own responsibility and they might not be so vigilant about it. While away from home, they may consume large amounts of sugary beverages that feed destructive oral bacteria.


We tend to see a lot of decay between the teeth of patients at that age. They know how to brush, but flossing to get rid of bacteria between the teeth becomes just as important for healthy teeth.


Wisdom teeth also become an issue in the teen years. They should be removed because most people simply don't have enough room in their mouths to accommodate them. The advantage of getting them extracted early is that they are fairly easy to remove because the roots are not formed and your bone is more pliable.


Young Adulthood


Young adults often believe that if their teeth aren't bothering them, they don't need to see a dentist. Nothing could be further from the truth. You may not know you have a cavity until you need a root canal because the tooth doesn't start to hurt until the nerve has been damaged.


Adults should brush twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste and floss once a day. Electric or sonic toothbrushes work well, but not everyone needs them. You can clean just as well with a manual toothbrush as you can with a mechanical toothbrush, but most patients have a tendency to brush longer with an electric toothbrush.


Dental care is extremely important for pregnant women because studies have shown a link between gum disease and low-birth-weight babies. Because of the hormonal changes that take place in your body during pregnancy, you are at a much higher risk of developing some gingivitis.


The frequency of dental visits depends on your dental history, hygiene skills, and genetics. Most people should have a checkup every six months.


Midlife


This is the time when your teeth really start showing their age. Fillings you received decades ago start to break down. We start to see more root canals and tend to see more crowns because these teeth have been filled to capacity because of repeated cavities and fillings.


Gum disease becomes a formidable foe in middle age. You need to focus on daily flossing and brushing to keep your gums as healthy as possible — gum disease has been linked with a risk of heart disease, according to the American Academy of Periodontology.


Oral cancer becomes a concern as well, especially among smokers. If you have a sore in your mouth that does not go away within two weeks, it needs to be looked at by your dentist.


Senior Years


As we age, medications can lengthen our lifespan and improve our quality of life. Unfortunately, a common side effect of many drugs is dry mouth. Saliva is a natural tooth protector, so having less of it increases the risk of cavities. Many people use candies or gum to combat dry mouth, but such a habit can actually add fuel to the fire — sugar feeds bacteria in your mouth. To stimulate saliva, we prefer gum with the natural sugar substitute xylitol, because it mimics the action of fluoride. Sugarless candies and gum are also recommended.


If a condition such as arthritis or declining vision is making it difficult for you to brush, try an electric toothbrush. Continue to see our office twice a year.


By taking care of your teeth, you're not just ensuring a pretty smile. Tooth loss can affect your self-esteem and make it hard to enjoy the foods you love. And if you aren't eating properly, you're putting yourself at risk for nutritional deficiencies. In addition, poor dental hygiene can cause bacteria to enter the bloodstream, which puts you at a higher risk for heart disease, lung infections, diabetes, and osteoporosis.


For these reasons, being proactive about your dental care is worth the effort. "It takes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting a dentist on a regular basis. The rewards are worth it — good oral hygiene can help you keep your teeth for a lifetime.


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Oral Cancer Recurrence Predicted By Gene Signature

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S.

Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) is responsible for nearly a quarter of all head and neck cancers. It is one of the leading causes of cancer death - largely due to the failure of current histological procedures in predicting the recurrence of the disease. New research published in BioMed Central's open access journal BMC Cancer shows that a four-gene signature may accurately predict which patients are at higher risk of OSCC recurrence.

A team of researchers, including Drs. Patricia Reis and Levi Waldron, and led by Dr Suzanne Kamel-Reid and Dr. Igor Jurisica, from the Ontario Cancer Institute at University Health Network (UHN) Toronto, Canada collected cancerous and noncancerous oral tissue samples from patients with OSCC from Toronto General Hospital at UHN. They then used a meta-analysis of five published microarray studies along with their own microarray analysis to reliably identify 138 genes commonly over-expressed in both OSCC and normal margin tissues. Of these genes, a four-gene signature with the highest predictive risk of recurrence was selected. This signature contained cell invasion related genes MMP1, COL4A1, P4HA2 and THBS2.

The researchers explained, "Our data suggest that histologically normal surgical resection margins that over-express MMP1, COL4A1, THBS2 and P4HA2 are indicative of an increased risk of recurrence in OSCC. Patients at higher risk of recurrence could potentially benefit from closer disease monitoring and/or adjuvant post-operative radiation treatment, even in the absence of other clinical and histopathological indicators. Our findings may be applied to develop a molecular test, which could be clinically useful to help predict which patients are at a higher risk of local recurrence."

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I Brush, Do I Really Need To floss?

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S.

YES! Flossing is the single most important weapon against plaque, perhaps more important than the toothbrush. Dental floss removes plaque and debris that adhere to teeth and gums in between teeth where the toothbrush can't reach. It also polishes these surfaces, and can help control bad breath. Many people simply don't spend enough time flossing, and may have never been taught to floss properly Next time you come in for a visit, ask Debbie to show you the best technique. Dental floss also comes in many forms: waxed and unwaxed, flavored and unflavored, wide and regular. We can help determine what type is best for you. You may also prefer a prethreaded flosser or floss holder. These are handy for people with limited dexterity, for those who are just beginning, or for caretakers who are flossing someone else's teeth. Remember...An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. So no more excuses. By flossing your teeth DAILY, you increase the chance of keeping your teeth a lifetime, and decrease your chance of having gum disease and tooth decay.

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5 Top Toothpaste Myths

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S.

1. Everyone should use only fluoridated toothpastes
Studies and research indicate a strong correlation between the use of fluoride and the reduction of dental caries. In fact, as a result of those findings, many schools began adopting fluoride programs and community water fluoridation was instituted.

Today, 67 percent of the U.S. public water systems use fluoride to help prevent decay. The decision to use toothpaste with or without fluoride should be determined mutually by you and your dental professional, taking into consideration your community water fluoride content and your risk for dental caries.

2. Toothpastes are essentially all the same
Toothpastes are NOT all created equal. Toothpastes carry various levels of abrasivity which, if too abrasive, can lead to sensitivity and premature wear on teeth. Many toothpastes contain colors and dyes that can stain; alcohol that is harsh and dries the mouth; saccharin and artificial flavorings.

Many high-quality toothpastes contain no artificial flavorings or dyes; they are alcohol-free and saccharin-free. They may contain safe and unique ingredients such as Xylitol and sucralose, herbs, essential oils and may offer fluoride and fluoride-free options. Read labels to ensure you and your family are using a toothpaste that is safe and effective and meets your individual needs.

3. Whitening toothpastes will whiten my teeth
Contrary to what advertisers lead us to believe, it is simply not possible for commercial whitening toothpastes to actually whiten teeth. Whitening toothpastes are not formulated with the same active ingredients or concentrations found in professional whitening systems.

These toothpastes are only able to remove some surface staining caused by foods and beverages through the action of abrasive agents. The high rate of abrasion found in most of these whitening toothpastes can lead to increased sensitivity and premature wear on teeth and cosmetic surfaces.

4.The more toothpaste I use, the cleaner my teeth
More is NOT better; it’s usually a waste. Toothpaste is designed to assist in cleaning and removing plaque, stains and food debris. Most of the cleaning action actually comes from the mechanical efforts your toothbrush provides, along with proper technique, and not how much toothpaste you’re using.

When overloading your toothbrush with toothpaste, most of it usually finds its way down the drain. Additionally, children using fluoridated toothpastes should always be supervised to apply a controlled amount of toothpaste and to avoid swallowing.

5. Using toothpaste will keep my breath fresh
Many commercial-brand toothpastes contain strong artificial flavorings that can very often illicit a mild to intense burning sensation, giving it a “fresh” feeling and providing a temporary cover-up for odorous bacteria. Simply because it feels strong in the mouth does not necessarily mean it is killing the bacteria responsible for bad breath.

There are toothpastes that contain ingredients that actually neutralize a specific group of bacteria referred to as Volatile Sulfur Compounds (VSCs). This group of bacteria is responsible for oral malodor. And, when these VSCs are neutralized, the bacteria becomes ineffective and longer lasting fresh breath is achieved — safely, effectively and without the burn!

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Bummed Out About Home Bleaching Agents

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S.

Home Tooth whitening products are available for use to remove external stains from teeth by abrasion or  bleaching. Their safety and effectiveness can come into question. Kits that contain abrasive agents can give you a white smile initially by removing surface stains, but they can be harmful over the long run because they accelerate the natural aging process.These kit may cause the enamel of teeth to be worn away to reveal the yellow dentin behind it. Such kits can also cause recessions on gums (meaning the roots will be exposed) and consequently cause tooth abfraction on the roots of teeth concurrent with sensitivity to cold and air.


It is of utmost importance to have the abfraction checked by our office, so the sensitivity be stopped. There is various treatment that can help further breakdown and abfraction of the roots, including dental bonding or  dental veneers.


IF YOU DO HAVE ANY EXISTING SENSITIVITY, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THAT YOU NOT DO ANY TEETH WHITENING OR BLEACHING OF TEETH until all the necessary treatment for the sensitivity is rendered.


Teeth bleaching or tooth whitening products are usually carbomide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide derivatives with different concentration. You should be screened for your gums, root sensitivity, any micro cracks, micro leakage possibly from your fillings , or abfractions by our office before you put whitening and bleaching products in your mouth.


In closing, I highly advise you to have a full check up and consultation with our office before you do any kind of teeth whitening to avoid further damage to your precious teeth and smile.


760-323-2771

The Effects Of Aging On Teeth And Gums

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S.

As the average lifespan of our nation’s population is increasing, so too is the need for maintaining proper oral health care.  The goal, of course, is to retain our teeth for all of these extended years.  Though aging can have some negative effects on our teeth, I am encouraged to report that many of my elderly clientele are even more diligent and knowledgeable in the area of oral hygiene than some of their younger cohorts.  While dentures are still available, their prevalence in the dental office is significantly reduced from years in the past. 

It is important for the aging population to pay attention to certain scenarios that may present in the oral environment with age.  The saying, “He’s a bit long in the tooth,” originates from the fact that gum recession over time tends to expose more and more of the root surfaces of one’s teeth.  Often associated with this root exposure is increased sensitivity to cold and hot liquids and air brought in through the mouth.  A simple solution to this problem is to have us bond a desensitizing agent to the tooth or to place a filling on the exposed surface.  These treatments are incredibly effective at eliminating tooth sensitivity both painlessly and immediately.  Patients are thus free to enjoy ice cream, coffee and cold beverages that same day.

Exposed roots are also more predisposed to cavities, or “root caries” as we call them.  This is because the tooth structure below the gum line consists of a softer mineral than the more resistant enamel on the outer portion of a tooth.  Routine cleanings and check-ups, sometimes with even greater regularity than the typical six-month recall, can serve to head off at the pass any cavities that may otherwise run amuck. 

Decreased salivary flow can result with age as well.  Our saliva contains a buffer against the acids that result when foods breakdown in our mouths.  The absence of this saliva leaves our teeth more susceptible to tooth decay.   Certain medications can interfere with normal salivary production as well.   We may elect to counteract this decreased salivary flow with other medications.  The best defense against the harmful effects of low salivary flow is the same as that for most age-related dental challenges: immaculate oral hygiene and regular visits to our office!

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When Should My Child First See The Dentist?

Dr Jay Jorgensen D.D.S.

Parents frequently ask me when their young child should first see the dentist. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that children be seen shortly after their first tooth erupts and no later than their first birthday. As any parent knows, many babies and toddlers are not ready to cooperate with a full dental exam at this young age. 


Our dental office may perform visual exams on children who are very young while the child sits comfortably in the parent’s lap. In the first couple years, the mouth is so small and the teeth are so few that a quick visual exam may be able to tell us what we need to know without having to perform a full exam with tools. At this age, we find it most helpful to have a discussion with the parents on proper dental care for young teeth and how to avoid any major problems, like baby bottle tooth decay.

In our office we try to keep these first few dental appointments calm and fun so that the child can associate the dentist with a positive experience. We don’t force young children to cooperate in ways that make them fearful because dentistry is often associated with anxiety anyway. I have treated many adult patients who still have dental anxiety due to unpleasant childhood experiences at the dentist. As a team, parents and our office can work together to make going to the dentist an enjoyable and fear free experience for their children.

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Pregnant Moms & Dental Health

A few of our patients are new mom's to be. When a woman is pregnant, there are a lot of obvious hormonal changes. Dentally this can manifest as bleeding gums. The best preventative there is closer attention to good oral hygiene and a good diet.

Sometimes ladies develop a red purple bump or swelling on the gums called a pregnancy tumor (which sounds scary, but is benign).

It is best to avoid x-rays or medications especially during the first trimester, so we may delay any treatment or routine diagnostic x-rays a few months. Hopefully the patient has good oral health so that little problems will not turn into bigger ones because of treatment delay. There are many other good sites with information for expectant moms. In fact, here is one from the: ADA. Things are not always so easily planned but, if you are thinking about starting a family, make sure your dental treatment needs are in good order beforehand.

Oh, and don't forget to schedule your baby for their first dental visit by age one!

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Dangers Of An Abscessed Tooth

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S.

You woke up in the morning, put your clothes on and went to take your small breakfast. Everything seemed to be the same except an unpleasant feeling in your oral cavity accompanied by a general discomfort. You went to the bathroom, found a mirror and opened the mouth.

That moment you realized what was the cause of the pain you had had while chewing, the cause of that bitter taste in the mouth, the sudden and unknown sensitivity of the teeth to hot and cold, and that unpleasant bad breath that could be easily felt the first moments of that day.

Dentists call it “tooth abscess“. At first abscess looks like a swelled area that turned red. It hurts and you can feel how the temperature increased. Abscess usually appears when a tooth cracks or develops a deep cavity and the pulp is exposed.

Then bacteria invades the center of the tooth and the pulp starts to die. As the tooth infection progresses, pockets of pus form at the root of the tooth. Sometimes a patient will not even know abscessed tooth exists until he has a routine exam and x-ray.

An abscessed tooth must be treated. If it is ignored then complications are inevitable. Here are some of really frequent dangers of tooth abscess:

1. Loss of the tooth –  It is a painful process and you need to avoid it.

2. Spread of infection to the jaw bone – mandible or maxilla are strongly effected by abscessed tooth infection.

3. Spread of infection to soft tissue – tooth abscess can cause facial cellulite or Ludwig’s angina, a rare disease that is accompanied by fever, deviation of the pharyngeal walls, an impending airway disaster, including muffled voice, inability to tolerate secretions, and protruding tongue.

4. Sinusitis – any infection or inflammation of the sinus cavities behind the nose and eyes. Symptoms vary according to which sinus cavity is infected.

5. Brain abscess – this very important organ is situated close to the infected area. Tooth abscess and abscesses in and around the nasal sinuses, face, ears, and scalp may work their way into the brain.

6. Blood infection – the blood flow increases to the trouble area. If the abscess ruptures into neighboring areas or permits the infectious agent to spill into the bloodstream, serious or fatal consequences are likely. It is called blood poisoning – a term commonly used to describe an infection that has spilled into the blood stream and spread throughout the body from a localized origin. Blood poisoning, known to physicians as septicemia, is also life threatening. In this case important organs are affected like heart, for example.

7. Death – indubitable it is the worst and dangerous complication of abscessed tooth and it must be avoided.

Now you know that the abscessed tooth danger is big enough and next time when you feel uneasiness and dental pain, you should not ignore it and pay us a visit. This reduces the risk of tooth abscess and eases you from its dangers.


760-323-2771

Cavities Are Preventable

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S.

Cavities are preventable and caused by certain types of bacteria (germs) that live in your mouth.  Bacteria stick to the film on your teeth called plaque. The bacteria feed on what you eat, especially sugars (including fruit sugars) and cooked starch (bread, potatoes, rice, pasta, etc.).  About 5 minutes after you eat, or drink, the bacteria begin making acid as they digest your food.  This acid can break down the tooth’s outer surface and dissolve valuable minerals that protect your teeth.  The result is cavities. 

You are not born with the bacteria that cause cavities. These bacteria are usually transferred to you at a young age by your primary care taker, most often your mother.  To reduce the chances of passing the bacteria to your children, avoid sharing utensils, straws or other items that may have saliva on them.    


How to Prevent Decay 
• Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste 
• Clean between teeth daily with floss 
• Eat a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacking 
• Visit us regularly for professional cleanings and exams  
• Ask us about:  
Dental sealants
Xylitol gum and mints  
Fluoride treatments including varnish 


Call us today: 760-323-2771

Dental Care May Prevent Heart Attacks

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S

How can teeth, a part of the body so relatively insignificant, that it can even be pulled out almost at will, have an effect on one of the most important and almost irreplaceable body parts – the heart?

For decades, most scientists and reflexology practitioners have argued how each part of your body is connected to others, and how proper treatment of some of the most unnoticed body parts can have huge benefits on the most invaluable ones. Being one of the most complex systems in the world it is invariable that there are little known links within the body.

This is true when it comes to teeth as well. Professor Howard Jenkinson of the Bristol University, along with the Royal College of Surgeons, has identified the link between poor dental health and heart disease through their studies.

The risks of poor dental care

The mouth has almost 700 different types of bacteria living in it. Some bacteria are the harmful kind. But, there are harmless bacteria as well. These bacteria help in breaking down food particles. Every time you eat, drink or even open your mouth the numbers of bacteria in your mouth increase. Through regular brushing and proper dental care the bacteria are kept under control.

However, improper dental care can result in gum infections, gingivitis and similar oral diseases. This causes the harmful bacteria to enter the blood stream. Streptococcus gordonii and Streptococcus sanguinis are some of the bacteria causing oral infections. Such bacteria have been identified to be factors resulting in heart disease.

How to prevent heart disease

It has been the case that certain antibiotics do not seem to work against heart disease. It is possible that oral bacteria could be the reason. Professor Jenkinson and Dr Steve Kerringan are working to find a solution to this. Until such time, prevention of oral diseases and maintaining proper dental hygiene and care is the best possible method in protecting yourself.

Regular brushing, especially after meals, is the main method of keeping mouth disease at bay. Protection can be further enhanced by the use of dental care products such as anti-bacterial sprays and mouthwash. This will help to prevent against oral bacterial diseases. In turn, this would also protect against one of the causes of heart attacks.

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S. 760-323-2771

Grinding Your Teeth Can Give You A Headache

Does your wife or partner complain, every morning, about your teeth grinding or teeth clenching keeping her awake? The very fact that your wife complained about it keeping her awake made you aware about your habit. It is always the person sleeping at the side of you who will be able to tell you you have a problem with teeth grinding. This habit of grinding and clenching the teeth is known as bruxism.

People with irregular or infrequent bruxism are not  affected very much. They do not really show significant damage done to the jaws and teeth. It is those who are habitual grinders who get affected. In severe cases it can also damage one’s jaw or hearing.

The question arises as to how would one know if he or she grinds or clenches their teeth? If detected how bruxism can be treated? It has been studied that some people make a noise when grinding their teeth thus making it detectable while some do not make a single sound making it hard to detect.
There are two ways one can know if they have bruxism, first is when your partner complains about it and second is when after a night’s sleep you get up with an ache in your jaws or a slight, persistent headache. Whatever the case, a checkup by our office is pertinent.

Consequences of teeth grinding or clenching:

There are many outcomes to teeth grinding two of which are mentioned above:

• Severe toothache
• Sensitive to biting food
• Sensitive to hot or cold food
• In advanced cases the teeth can break or result in fractures
• Tooth loss

Precaution And Treatment

People visiting our office usually complain of severe toothache. To stop this toothache the very habit has to be put to an end. Otherwise there are other factors that could cause it and have to be contained:

• Lower stress and relax daily
• Reduce alcohol consumption and intake of caffeine
• If grinding becomes a problem at night ask us about our recommendations for a nightguard
• It may be caused by an irregular bite, then we would need to perform teeth alignment.

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S. 760-323-2771

What Causes Gingivitis?

The most common cause of gingivitis is poor oral hygiene that encourages plaque to form. Plaque is an invisible, sticky film composed mainly of bacteria. Plaque forms on your teeth when starches and sugars in food interact with bacteria normally found in your mouth. Brushing and flossing your teeth each day removes plaque. Plaque requires daily removal because it re-forms quickly, usually within 24 hours.

Plaque that stays on your teeth longer than two or three days can harden under your gumline into tartar (calculus). Tartar makes plaque more difficult to remove and creates a protective shield for bacteria. You usually can't get rid of tartar by brushing and flossing, you need a professional dental cleaning to remove it.

The longer that plaque and tartar remain on your teeth, the more they irritate the gingiva, the part of your gum around the base of your teeth. In time, your gums become swollen and bleed easily.

Factors that can increase your risk of gingivitis include:
Poor oral health habits 
Tobacco use 
Diabetes
Older age 
Decreased immunity as a result of leukemia, HIV/AIDS or other conditions
Certain medications
Certain viral and fungal infections 
Dry mouth
Hormonal changes, such as those related to pregnancy, your menstrual cycle or use of oral contraceptives 
Poor nutrition
Substance abuse
Ill-fitting dental restorations                                     


Untreated gingivitis can progress to gum disease that spreads to underlying tissue and bone (periodontitis), a much more serious condition that can lead to tooth loss. Periodontitis and poor oral health in general may also affect your overall health in ways that aren't completely understood. Studies link periodontitis to an increased risk of heart attack, stroke or lung disease. And women with periodontitis may be more likely to give birth to premature babies or babies with low birth weight than are women with healthy gums. Although more research is needed, these studies highlight the importance of taking good care of your teeth and gums.


Prevention 


The best way to prevent gingivitis is a program of good dental hygiene, one that you begin early and practice consistently throughout life. That means brushing your teeth at least twice daily — in the morning and before going to bed — and flossing at least once a day. Better yet, brush after every meal or snack or as your dentist recommends. A complete cleaning with a toothbrush and floss should take three to five minutes. Flossing before you brush allows you to clean away the loosened food particles and bacteria.


Also, see us regularly for professional cleanings, usually every six to 12 months. If you have risk factors that increase your chance of developing gingivitis, you may need professional dental cleanings more often.


www.mydentistinpalmsprings.com

How Your Diet Affects Your Oral Health

To prevent cavities and maintain good oral health, your diet -- what you eat and how often you eat -- are important factors. Changes in your mouth start the minute you eat certain foods. Bacteria in the mouth convert sugars from the foods you eat to acids, and it's the acids that begin to attack the enamel on teeth, starting the decay process. The more often you eat and snack, the more frequently you are exposing your teeth to the cycle of decay.

Mouth-Healthy Foods and Drinks

The best food choices for the health of your mouth include cheeses, chicken or other meats, nuts, and milk. These foods are thought to protect tooth enamel by providing the calcium and phosphorus needed to remineralize teeth (a natural process by which minerals are redeposited in tooth enamel after being removed by acids).

Other food choices include firm/crunchy fruits (for example, apples and pears) and vegetables. These foods have a high water content, which dilutes the effects of the sugars they contain, and stimulate the flow of saliva (which helps protect against decay by washing away food particles and buffering acid). Acidic foods, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and lemons, should be eaten as part of a larger meal to minimize the acid from them.

Poor food choices include candy -- such as lollipops, hard candies, and mints -- cookies, cakes, pies, breads, muffins, potato chips, pretzels, french fries, bananas, raisins, and other dried fruits. These foods contain large amounts of sugar and/or can stick to teeth, providing a fuel source for bacteria. In addition, cough drops should be used only when necessary as they, like sugary candy, contribute to tooth decay because they continuously coat the teeth with sugar.

The best beverage choices include water (especially fluoridated water), milk, and unsweetened tea. Limit your consumption of sugar-containing drinks, including soft drinks, lemonade, and coffee or tea with added sugar. Also, avoid day-long sipping of sugar-containing drinks -- day-long sipping exposes your teeth to constant sugar and, in turn, constant decay-causing acids.

Sugar Substitutes and Sugar-Free Products

Sugar substitutes are available that look and taste like sugar; however, they are not digested the same way as sugar, so they don't "feed" the bacteria in the mouth and therefore don't produce decay-causing acids. They include: erythritol, isomalt, sorbitol, and mannitol. Other sugar substitutes that are available in the U.S. include saccharin, aspartame (marketed as Equal), acesulfame potassium (marketed as Sunett), and sucralose (marketed as Splenda).

Sugarless or sugar-free food sometimes simply means that no sugar was added to the foods during processing. However, this does not mean that the foods do not contain other natural sweeteners, such as honey, molasses, evaporated cane sugar, fructose, barley malt, or rice syrup. These natural sweeteners contain the same number of calories as sugar and can be just as harmful to teeth.

To determine if the sugarless or sugar-free foods you buy contain natural sweeteners, examine the ingredients label. Words that end in '-ose' (like sucrose and fructose) usually indicate the presence of a natural sweetener. On the label, look under sugars or carbohydrates.

Is Chewing Gum OK for Teeth?

Chewing sugarless gum is actually beneficial to your teeth as chewing helps dislodge food that becomes stuck to your teeth and also increases saliva flow to buffer (neutralize) mouth acids. Gums that contain the sugar substitute xylitol even reduce cavities. Chewing gum can be a problem, however, if you have jaw pain or other issues with your jaw.

Teeth and Gum Care Tips

These are some basic tips for caring for teeth and gums:

• Brush your teeth regularly. Brush at least twice a day and preferably after every meal and snack.
• Use a fluoride-containing toothpaste.
• Floss at least once a day.
• Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings -- typically twice a year.
• Eat a variety of foods to maintain overall health. Eat fewer foods containing sugars and starches between meals. If you must snack, choose nutritious foods, such as cheese, raw vegetables, plain yogurt, or a firm fruit (such as an apple).