Tuesday, December 30, 2014

Chew On This

 
At Paducah Dental Care we take great pride in our state of the art equipment and extremely friendly and knowledgeable hygienists. Our trained eyes will search for any signs of disease or further problems including a thorough check for cavities, early signs of gum disease, or oral cancer. Our hygienists take a great deal of time with patients educating you on preventive care. We offer advice with your individual needs in mind.
 
Visit Paducah Dental Care to learn more! 

Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Holiday Dental Tip

At Paducah Dental Care we take great pride in our state of the art equipment and extremely friendly and knowledgeable hygienists. Our trained eyes will search for any signs of disease or further problems including a thorough check for cavities, early signs of gum disease, or oral cancer. Our hygienists take a great deal of time with patients educating you on preventive care. We offer advice with your individual needs in mind.

Visit Paducah Dental Care to learn more! 

Monday, December 1, 2014

What can I do for dry mouth?

What can I do for dry mouth?
 
Treatment for dry mouth depends on what is causing the problem. It is very important to see your dentist or health care provider to find what is causing dry mouth.

Once this is accomplished a treatment plan can be made specifically for you to treat it. There are however many temporary thing that can be done to help until the cause of the problem is found.

-Chewing sugar free gums or sucking on hard sugar free candy can help to stimulate saliva flow. The key here is making sure it is sugar free. Otherwise other problems can arise from consuming too much sugar, such as cavities.

-Limit caffeine and avoid anything containing alcohol. It’s important to find an alcohol free mouthwash. Both alcohol and caffeine have a drying effect on the mouth which only worsens the problem.

-Stop any use of tobacco products.

-Sip on water throughout the day. Avoid sipping any fluids that can be acidic to the teeth. This will put you at a higher risk of developing cavities because the teeth are exposed to acid all day long.

-There are over the counter saliva substitutes. Look for products that contain xylitol, carboxymethylcellulose, or hydroxyethylcellulose. For example, Mouth Kote, Oasis Moisturizing mouth spray, and Biotene products. There are also many mouthwashes that are designed for dry mouth. Biotene and ACT both have a mouthwash for dry mouth.

-Avoid antihistamines and decongestants and try to breath through your nose and not your mouth.

-Sleep with a humidifier by the bed. At night the mouth dries out more and this helps to keep moisture in the air.

It is very important to see your dentist regularly because dry mouth puts you at greater risk of developing cavities and other dental problems. Your dentist will help to ensure that preventive treatment is being used to avoid dental problems due to dry mouth.  Many dentists will prescribe a prescription tooth paste or mouthwash that is high in fluoride to help prevent cavities and recommend more frequent cleanings and exams.

 Visit Paducah Dental Care to learn more! 

Thursday, November 20, 2014

What are the signs and symptoms of dry mouth?

 
What are the signs and symptoms of dry mouth?
Dr. Matthew Mangino
 
Those with dry mouth typically complain that they have difficulty talking, eating, tasting food, swallowing, and a sticky feeling in the mouth. Dry mouth is more noticeable for most people at night, especially in people who breathe through their mouth during sleep.
 
Many people suffering from dry mouth will experience chapped or cracked lips, dry eyes, dry throat, pale gums, headaches, dizziness, bad breath or a persistent cough. Those affected may also complain of sores in their mouth, or a white tongue which is usually a yeast infection.
 
Many oral problems can arise from dry mouth including burning of the tongue, periodontitis, ulcers, and inflamed gums. Cavities became very common along the gum line because saliva is used to clean food and bacteria from the teeth. Without a sufficient amount of saliva this debris is allowed to remain along the gum line causing cavities.
 

 Visit Paducah Dental Care to learn more! 

Monday, November 17, 2014

Free Sedation and $750 off First Dental Implants


Dental Implants have changed the way patients have to cope with the loss of teeth. A dental implant is the most effective and long-lasting way to replace missing or broken-down teeth. They look and feel natural giving you your confidence back.

                            Visit Paducah Dental Care to learn more! 

Monday, November 10, 2014

Wednesday, October 22, 2014

Free Sedation & 50% OFF Dental Implants


Isn't it great to know you can relax in the dentist chair? If you are interested in Sedation please give us a call at 270-444-6414. We'd be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Visit Paducah Dental Care to learn more! 

 

Thursday, September 25, 2014

What causes Dry Mouth?



By Dr. William Walden
           
         There are many causes of dry mouth, but the most common cause is medications. Dry mouth is the main side effect of many prescription and nonprescription medications, including drugs used to treat depression, anxiety, pain, allergies and colds (antihistamines and decongestants), obesity, acne, epilepsy, hypertension (diuretics), diarrhea, nausea, psychotic disorders, urinary incontinence, asthma (certain bronchodilators), and Parkinson's disease. Dry mouth can also be a side effect of muscle relaxants and sedatives. As well as many diseases themselves cause dry mouth, such as, Sjögren's syndrome, salivary gland diseases, sleep apnea, HIV/AIDS, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, anemia, cystic fibrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, hypertension, Parkinson's disease, stroke, and mumps. Eating disorders such as bulimia and anorexia can also lead to dry mouth. 

       People that undergo any type of chemotherapy or radiation therapy to the head or neck region will have dry mouth due to damage to the salivary glands. Nerve damage can also occur in the head and neck region from injury or surgery that can damage the function of salivary glands. Some individuals may even have to have their salivary glands surgically removed for different medical reasons. There are many lifestyle habits that can lead to dry mouth as well, such as, chewing tobacco, smoking, mouth breathing, being under a lot of stress or anxiety, and dehydration.

Visit Paducah Dental Care to learn more! 


Wednesday, September 10, 2014

Free Sedation and 50% off Implants, offer ends October 17, 2014


Do you experience fear, anxiety, or high stress just thinking about going to the dentist? You are not alone! Sedation Dentistry may be the solution for you as it has been for thousands of our patients over the years! By utilizing Oral Conscious Sedation or IV Sedation your dental treatment can be comfortable. Sedation also saves our patients time by allowing us to do a lot of dental work in just one visit.

Replace Those Missing Teeth and Ill-Fitting Dentures with a Natural Look. Dental Implants have changed the way patients have to cope with the loss of teeth. A dental implant is the most effective and long-lasting way to replace missing or broken-down teeth. They look and feel natural giving you your confidence back.

Are you missing teeth, have severely broken down teeth, or worried about your denture falling out of your mouth? If so, dental implants are the solution. At Paducah Dental Care, we offer our patients a variety of implants that are catered to their needs, lifestyle and the bone structure of your mouth.

One of the best things about dental implants is that they reduce the bone loss that occurs when a tooth is lost. When the implant fuses with the bone it prevents the bone from shrinking. Dental implants are highly successful and even more important, affordable.

 



Isn't it great to know you can relax in the dentist chair? If you are interested in Sedation please give us a call at 270-444-6414. We'd be happy to answer any questions you may have.


Visit Paducah Dental Care to learn more! 

Friday, August 1, 2014

Sedation

Do you experience fear, anxiety, or high stress just thinking about going to the dentist? You are not alone! Sedation Dentistry may be the solution for you as it has been for thousands of our patients over the years! By utilizing Oral Conscious Sedation or IV Sedation your dental treatment can be comfortable. Sedation also saves our patients time by allowing us to do a lot of dental work in just one visit.

 

Oral Sedation

Our dentists will prescribe a pill to take one hour before your scheduled appointment. You must have someone drive you to our office. When you arrive at our office you will be awake but feeling very relaxed. Throughout your dental appointment our staff will monitor your vital signs. When your treatment is completed, a friend or relative will need to drive you home. Do not operate a motor vehicle for 24 hours after receiving sedation. We do recommend that you take the day off and relax, making no major decisions. When you are fully awake you will probably remember very little about your dental treatment. Oral Sedation is easy and works well for most patients.

 

IV Sedation

You should not eat or drink anything eight hours before your appointment. IV Sedation medication is given through a very small needle inserted into a vein in your hand or arm. This form of sedation takes effect very quickly. As with oral sedation your vital signs will be monitored throughout your appointment. The main advantage of IV sedation is that your dentist can control the amount of medication given allowing for your sedation to be increased or decreased quickly and comfortably if necessary. You will be very relaxed during your appointment and will remember very little about the procedure. Most patients become alert once the medication is stopped, however someone must drive you home. You should not operate a motor vehicle for 24 hours after given the IV sedation.

Sedation is safe for most patients. We will ask you several questions regarding your health history and current supplements and medications you're currently taking. We will check and make sure sedation will not interact with your medications and if necessary we will consult with your physician regarding health concerns. Your safety is our number one priority.


Isn't it great to know you can relax in the dentist chair? If you are interested in Sedation please give us a call at 270-444-6414. We'd be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Visit Paducah Dental Care to learn more! 

How Do Tobacco Products Affect Your Oral Health?



Dr. Matthew Mangino
           

Tobacco products have a negative affect on oral health. Some effects tobacco products cause is bad breath, tooth discoloration, loss of taste and smell, and serious periodontal problems. Recent studies have shown that tobacco use may be one of the biggest risk factors in developing gum disease and that people who use tobacco develop more tartar on their teeth than non-tobacco users.

Smoking causes gumdisease to worsen and bone loss is more severe. The gums may not appear to be red or swollen and can give the false impression that the gums are healthy. This is because smoking interferes with the normal function of the gum tissues and impairs blood flow to the gums. Treatment becomes more difficult and less likely to succeed because smoking hinders the healing process in the mouth. 

 Smokeless tobacco is also known as "snuff", "spit" or chewing tobacco. It is held in the mouth between the teeth and cheek. Users spit out a black, tarry substance that forms when the tobacco joins with saliva. It is absorbed rapidly into the bloodstream through the lining of the mouth making it more addictive than smoking cigarettes. Users of chewing tobacco suffer permanent gum and bone loss even after they quit using it. Many people think of professional sports when they think of smokeless tobacco, but its use is increasing in teenagers.

No matter how long you have used tobacco products, quitting can quickly decrease your risk of developing:
•Oral cancer
•Cancers of the lungs and other parts of the body
•Heart disease and stroke
•Chronic bronchitis, emphysema (chronic lung disease)
•Periodontitis (gum disease) and tooth decay
•Premature aging
•Mouth sores or lesions that do not heal such as leukoplakia

Quitting is always the best option and there are many ways to help one quit. Talk to your dentist,dental hygienist, and your doctor about developing a strategy to quit. Have your dentist screen for early signs of oral cancer and periodontal disease. Anticipate triggers to smoking and prepare strategies on how to avoid them. Come up with a reward system and make goals for each day. Quitting is a very difficult process and it’s important to have loved ones as well as health professionals help along the way.

 Visit Paducah Dental Care to learn more! 



Friday, July 11, 2014

What can I do for my Bad Breath?


          
Bad breath (halitosis) can result from poor dental health habits, and may be a sign of other health problems. It can also be made worse by the types of foods one eats and other unhealthy lifestyle habits. All the food eaten begins to be broken down in the mouth. As foods are digested/ absorbed into the bloodstream, they are eventually carried to the lungs and given off in one’s breath. Brushing, flossing, and even mouthwash only cover up the strong odor and can be temporary. The odor will not go away completely until the foods have passed through the body.

A great place to start is at home by keeping the mouth clean. Bacteria are the most common cause of bad breath. Many people try to kill bacteria with mouthwash; however, this is only a temporary solution. The bacteria will grow back over time. The best defense is to brush the teeth thoroughly at least twice a day for two full minutes, and floss once a day; a Waterpik can also be used daily. This will help remove the food trapped between the teeth, as well as the food trapped in the gum line. It is also important to clean the tongue after brushing. This can be done with a toothbrush or a tongue cleaner. The rough surface of the tongue is a common place for bacteria to remain causing an odor. Rinsing the mouth after eating and drinking with antibacterial mouthwash or even plain water can help reduce odor.
 
The most important thing to do is visit a dentist for a thorough cleaning and examination.  Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth may be warning signs of gum disease. Gum disease is caused by the buildup of plaque on teeth. The bacteria cause toxins to form in the mouth, which irritate the gums. If gum disease continues untreated, it can damage the gums and bone around the teeth. Other dental causes of bad breath include poorly fitting dental appliances, yeast infections of the mouth, and cavities. Dry mouth is a medical condition that can also cause bad breath. Saliva is used to moisten and cleanse the mouth by neutralizing acids produced by plaque and washing away bacteria that accumulate in the mouth. Dry mouth may be caused by the side effects of various medications, salivary gland problems, or continuous breathing through the mouth. There are also many diseases and illnesses that cause bad breath.

A proper treatment plan can be made while visiting the dentist when suffering from bad breath. It is rarely life-threatening and the prognosis is good. If good oral hygiene does not eliminate bad breath, it may be a symptom of a medical disorder; therefore a medical doctor should also be seen. It is important to see your dentist regularly for a healthy lifestyle.
                           
 Visit Paducah Dental Care to learn more! 

                   

        

Thursday, June 5, 2014

Preventing Childhood Cavities

By Dr. William Walden

Early childhood cavities are an infectious disease defined as the presence of one or more decayed, missing or filled tooth surfaces in any primary tooth in a preschool-age child between birth and 71 months of age. Although dental cavities in children have declined significantly among school-aged children since the early 1970s, dental cavities have remained the most prevalent chronic disease of childhood and are a public health concern.

Early childhood cavities are an infectious disease that can start as soon as an infant’s teeth erupt. It can progress rapidly and may have a lasting impact on a child’s health and well-being. Cavities are a disease process initiated by bacteria. When food is consumed, bacteria are able to break down carbohydrates, producing acids that cause mineral loss from teeth. This mineral loss results in cavities when the attack is prolonged or if a person’s immune system is compromised. There are many factors that contribute to cavities in children, such as compromised immune systems, poor nutrition and feeding habits, genetics, medication, and poor oral hygiene.

Childhood cavities can be prevented with an emphasis on early preventive oral healthcare for children. With the onset of cavities beginning at such a young age, education needs to begin with the parents. Fluoride is safe and effective for preventing cavities in children. Community water fluoridation is a major factor responsible for the decline of cavities in children. Fluoride toothpastes, varnishes, mouth rinses, gels, and dietary supplements can also help prevent cavities. Good dietary counseling and oral hygiene practices need to be taught at a young age to start good habits that can be passed on to future children. There are many programs provided by health care facilities to help educate families with young children as well as programs to help low income families gain better access to dental care.

Parents are now being taught from health care providers how to prevent cavities in young children. Every child needs a well-balanced diet and unrestricted consumption of sugary liquids and foods should be avoided. It is also important to avoid putting a child to bed with a bottle. Infants need to have their mouth swabbed after each bottle, as well as, children need to have their teeth brushed every morning and night. It is always a good idea to take a child for their first dental visit by one year of age. This insures that any conditions can be monitored and found early on. Healthy children may only need exams once a year, however, children that are high risk for dental problems may need more frequent visits.

Early screenings are now being done in public school systems and as part of regular check-ups with a child’s regular physician. Some primary health care professionals are performing an oral health screening that includes the lips, tongue, teeth, gums, interior surface of the cheeks, and roof of the mouth. Health professionals can help ensure that infants and young children receive the care they need by referring infants to a dentist for an oral examination. With families being educated about the dangers and prevention of childhood cavities there is hope to begin seeing a decline in the number of children having to have dental work at such a young age.

Visit Paducah Dental Care to learn more! 



Tuesday, May 6, 2014

Diabetes Increases Risk of Oral Diseases

 Dr. Matthew Mangino


For the 26 million Americans diagnosed with diabetes each year, life can be very difficult. Diabetes affects all aspects of a person’s physical health and, if not managed properly, can lead to a host of other serious health problems.

In fact, persons suffering from diabetes are less resistant to infection and therefore are also at an increased risk of developing various oral diseases. The most common diseases include periodontal disease, gingivitis, salivary gland dysfunction, inflammatory skin disease, infections, delayed healing and taste impairment.

Diabetes’ patients may also suffer from other mouth ailments including thrush, an infection caused by fungus that grows in the mouth, and dry mouth, which can also lead to ulcers, soreness, cavities and other infections.

Because diabetes weakens the body’s ability to fight bacteria, tissues and bones in the mouth are vulnerable to infection. The disease often causes individuals to produce high levels of glucose in their saliva, which then speeds the growth of bacteria in the mouth. As bacteria grow, tartar begins to build up above the gum line. If left untreated, this build up can lead to chronic mouth infections and inflammation.

Although, everyone should practice good oral hygiene habits, those living with diabetes should pay particular attention to changes in their mouth. It is imperative that diabetes patients schedule regular dental check-ups in order for their dentists to detect early stages of gum disease and other infections of the mouth.

Some signs to watch for include:*

  • Red, swollen or tender gums
  • Gums that bleed easily
  • Gums that are pulling away from the teeth
  • Pus that is produced between the teeth and gums when pressed
  • Chronic bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth
  • Teeth that have become loose or have begun to separate
  • Changes in the way an individual’s teeth fit together
  • Changes in the fit of an individual’s partial dentures

The good news is that most of these problems are preventable through good oral health care habits. A healthy routine includes brushing twice daily and flossing at least once during the day. Patients might also consult their dentists about using an appropriate mouth rinse in order to more effectively prevent the growth of bacteria known to cause gum disease.

It’s also important that patients inform their dentists that they have been diagnosed with diabetes. They should make them aware of any prescription or over-the-counter medications they may be taking to control the disease.

Living with diabetes presents enough challenges without the added stress of oral infections and diseases. Taking control of an individual’s oral health will save time and money in the long run, while dramatically improving the quality of one’s life. Contact your physician and your dentist for more information.


Visit Paducah Dental Care to learn more! 

Tuesday, April 29, 2014

Is it important to see my dentist during pregnancy?



By Dr. Matthew Mangino

 
             It is recommended to see a dentist before, during, and after pregnancy. It is important to maintain a healthy mouth during pregnancy because hormonal changes can increase the risk of developing dental health issues. The dentist and dental hygienist will help in making the best decisions in keeping you and your mouth healthy.

            If you are planning to have a baby, it is important to make a dental appointment to have a professional cleaning and a thorough examination of the mouth. This ensures that any dental issues, such as gum disease or tooth decay, can be treated before becoming pregnant. The dentist should be informed of pregnancy before appointments as a precautionary measure. Dental appointments during the first trimester and the second half of the third trimester should be avoided if possible. The best time for routine dental care is during the second trimester and all elective dental treatment should be postponed until after delivery. Be sure to inform the dentist of any medication, including prenatal vitamins, and any specific medical instructions given by the OBGYN.

Another appointment for a cleaning and exam should be done during pregnancy as well as right after delivery. Do not skip dental appointments because of pregnancy. Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that increase the risk of developing gum disease which causes the gums to become tender, swollen, and to bleed easily. Good oral hygiene habits at home can help to decrease the effects of gum disease. If morning sickness causes problems with brushing then it is important to change to bland-tasting toothpaste. Brushing after having morning sickness is damaging to the teeth, instead, rinse with water or mouthwash and allow 30 minutes before brushing. It is important to also avoid sugary snacks to lessen the risk of developing tooth decay and try to eat a healthy, balanced diet.

There are times that dental treatment is considered an emergency and must be done during pregnancy. If dental work is needed, the amount of dental anesthesia administered should be as little as possible, but still enough to make the mother comfortable. Sometimes antibiotics are required for infections in the mouth and there are several that can be prescribed that are safe to take during pregnancy. If any treatment can be postponed it should be, however sometimes the risk of treatment is less than the risk of leaving infection in the mouth. Tooth whitening and other cosmetic procedures should be postponed until after delivery. Routine dental x-rays are also postponed until after delivery, however, in an emergency situation an x-rays may be needed to perform a dental procedure. If possible this should be done during the second trimester.

Maintaining healthy teeth and gums while pregnant through regular preventative dental check-ups is an important step in avoiding oral infections and making sure the baby is healthy. Never hesitate to talk to the dentist or dental hygienist about any concerns or questions regarding the health of the mouth and how it relates to the development of the baby. Dentist and dental hygienist are there to help make the best decisions for a healthy and safe pregnancy.

Visit Paducah Dental Care to learn more! 



Thursday, April 17, 2014

Nighttime Brushing Is More Important Than You Think

By Dr. William Walden, Paducah Dental Care

 
It’s late and you’re ready to call it a day. You just don’t feel like dragging yourself
into the bathroom to brush and floss those pearly whites before going to sleep.
But while brushing your teeth in the morning is important to protect your teeth and gums, brushing before bedtime is perhaps even more crucial to good oral health.

The reason for this is simple. Our teeth and gums are more vulnerable to harmful bacteria as we sleep. During the day, our mouths produce saliva that neutralizes acids produced by bacteria, thus providing a shield of protection for our teeth and gums. However, as we sleep our bodies produce less saliva, which leaves our teeth more vulnerable to bacteria that causes tooth decay and gum disease.

Perhaps you never realized it, but brushing at bedtime is also a strong defense against “morning breath.” You may have noticed that you wake up feeling thirsty in the mornings. You’ve probably also detected a hint of bad breath upon first waking up. This happens because your body produces less saliva during sleep.

Brushing at bedtime reduces the amount of bacteria known to cause bad breath and helps to prevent against infections that can create foul mouth odors.

Nighttime brushing also helps to reduce plaque, that nasty yellow film that builds up between teeth and along the gum lines. Plaque bacteria use sugar to produce acids. If left untreated, plaque can lead to painful oral health care problems, including the erosion of tooth enamel.

Breaking bad habits is never easy, but here are some tips for establishing a healthy nighttime oral health routine.

  1. Each night as you settle in to watch your favorite television program or to read a good book, remember to set an alarm as a reminder to brush and floss before heading to bed.
  1. Brush your teeth before you are too tired or forget to do so.
  1. If you watch nighttime television, try brushing during a commercial break.
  1. Consider keeping floss next to your armchair as a reminder to brush and floss before hitting the sack.

A couple of extra minutes every night can make a big difference in your oral health. To prevent oral healthcare problems brush your teeth twice daily, include flossing in your routine and make appointments for routine check ups with your dentist. These simple things can save money and a lifetime of poor oral health.

Visit Paducah Dental Care to learn more! 

Thursday, March 27, 2014

Healthy Smiles Make Healthy Hearts


By Dr. William Walden


We’ve always known that brushing our teeth and flossing regularly are effective in preventing tooth decay and gum disease. But there may be more to brushing and flossing than we previously thought, as studies now show a connection between heart disease and an individual’s oral health.

Although the exact relationship between the two is still under examination, it seems that people who take good care of their teeth are less likely to suffer from heart-related illnesses. In fact, research done by the American Academy of Periodontology found that individuals who suffer from gum disease are twice as likely to develop heart disease. One study even indicated that problems found in the mouth, such as cavities, gum disease and missing teeth, are almost as accurate at predicting heart disease as examining cholesterol levels can be.

Researchers have provided a couple of explanations worth considering. We already know that bacteria in our mouths enter the bloodstream. Therefore, it is possible that these bacteria may cling to fatty plaque contained in the arteries. This could cause blockage that affects an individual’s heart.

We also know that when the body is fighting against an infection, it will react by swelling or will become inflamed. This is the body’s natural defense mechanism. So another thought is that as bacteria circulate through the body, the body may recognize them as a threat, thereby causing blood cells to swell in defense against the bacteria. The swelling will cause the arteries to narrow, thus increasing the risk of blood clots.

Studies continue to be examined by the American Heart Association and the American Dental Association. More research needs to be done in order to determine the exact correlation linking heart disease and oral health, but we have enough evidence to support the idea that good oral health care habits are very likely an effective tool in helping to prevent heart disease.

Good oral health care daily habits should include brushing one’s teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing and replacing one’s toothbrush every three to four months. Regular checkups with a dentist should also be a part of an effective oral health care plan, as dentists are often able to detect early signs of various health problems based on the health of a person’s mouth.

Sometimes early signs of heart disease are difficult to detect because an individual will not feel his arteries clogging. However there are signs that appear in one’s oral health that are much more obvious and may lead to earlier detection if followed up with a visit to one’s physician.

Check with your physician for more information on the warning signs of heart disease.

Visit Paducah Dental Care to learn more!

Tuesday, March 18, 2014

Do You Think Cavities Are Just a Part of Life?

Dr. Matthew Mangino
             While brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups with your dentist are essential to maintaining healthy teeth and gums; there are other factors that you may not be aware of which also affect your oral health. One factor in particular is high levels of infectious bacteria is in your saliva and plaque.

           Saliva and plaque are everywhere in your mouth. With poor oral hygiene, infectious bacteria in your mouth can rise to high levels and cause dental cavities on the teeth to grow at a more rapid rate. This in turn can cause one’s mouth to become a “danger zone” quickly.

            People wonder, how does my mouth reach an unsafe level? Many of the risk factors are obvious: plaque, dry mouth, dental appliances, medications, and soda consumption.

           There is good news; at Paducah DentalCare we offer a simple evaluation to measure the presence of a dental cavity environment through a simple sample of your plaque and saliva. This test will allow us to measure the presence of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the universal energy molecule found in all animals, plants, bacteria, yeast, and mold. ATP measurements have a strong statistical association with the bacteria number in you plaque and saliva. The higher the reading of ATP, the higher your risk is for tooth decay.

This simple one-minute test is done in our office to check your risk for infectious bacteria. If one is at a high risk we have prescription toothpaste and mouth rinses that will begin to help neutralize the saliva and bring the mouth to a “healthy zone”. Some ways to maintain and avoid high levels of this infectious saliva are to maintain good oral hygiene habits at home, consume less soda, chew gums and mints with Xylitol in them, and last but not least maintain regular dental check-ups.

Visit Paducah Dental Care to learn more!





Thursday, February 27, 2014

Flossing or using a Waterpik, which is better?



           Both flossing and using a Waterpik have many great benefits. In many situations it depends on the person and the condition of their mouth. If patients are doing an effective job with floss they should continue using floss. However, some patients have areas that are hard to reach with floss or the patient may have dexterity issues. For patients who have braces, bridges, implants or have gum disease the Waterpik benefits them a great amount in hard to reach areas.  The water stream has a pulsating action that allows plaque biofilm to be removed and it is easier to maneuver the water stream into these areas than it is the floss. The water stream should be moved along each tooth at the gum line for a full 5 seconds to be effective in removing the plaque biofilm.

Patients with braces, bridges, implants and gum disease usually have to use floss threaders to be able to floss around each tooth. This is a very time consuming and difficult process. There are specially designed inserts for the Waterpik with brushes on the end to allow these areas to be cleaned around quickly and easily without having to thread floss through the teeth. Patients with gum disease will have areas of bone loss and recession leaving large spaces in-between all their teeth making it hard to clean the area effectively with a thin piece of floss. The water actually works by flushing these spaces with a thick stream of water clearing out all the plaque and food particles.

People that have dexterity limitations are recommended to use a Waterpik. Men can have troubles due to having large hands, elderly people could have difficulty using their hands from arthritis or other ailments, and small children have not developed the motor skills needed to maneuver floss throughout the mouth.  Many of these patients cannot effectively remove the plaque in their mouth with floss alone. The Waterpik allows them to only have to insert a small tip into the back of their mouth giving them much better coverage of all their teeth. Using floss can be very tedious and takes a high level of motor skills to use in the mouth. The Waterpik has a large handle that is easier to grip and is much like using a power toothbrush. This allows more area to grip for the patient and a lower level of motor skill is needed to remove plaque on the teeth.

Ideally it is recommended to use floss and a Waterpik; however, for some this is very difficult. As long as a patient is working hard at home and coming in to see their dentist regularly they should have great results with either method. It may take time and effort on the Dentist and patient’s part but eventually, together, they can come up with a home routine that fits each individual patient the best. There is not a “Cookie Cutter” answer; therefore, it strictly depends on each person as an individual

Visit Paducah Dental Care to learn more!