Archive for October, 2009

Periodontal and Other Diseases

Thursday, October 22nd, 2009

To date, scientists have found associations between periodontal disease and a number of other problems, including:

  • Heart disease
  • Diabetes
  • Dementia
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Premature birth

What’s behind the links? Experts can’t say for certain, but they believe that oral bacteria can escape into the bloodstream and injure major organs.

Inflammation is probably a common denominator, experts say. Periodontal disease, marked by inflammation, may increase inflammation throughout the body. Inflammation, in turn, is an underlying problem in diseases including heart disease and rheumatoid arthritis.

Source: http://www.webmd.com/

Anderson Dental Group

Invisalign

Thursday, October 22nd, 2009

This is an option that is making adults smile even before their teeth are perfect. These are transparent aligners – similar to clear gum shields – which, when worn, will adjust tooth alignment over time. These are replaced every two weeks. Besides the fact that they are wonderfully see-through, you can remove them to eat and brush teeth.

Source: http://www.dentistry.com/

Anderson Dental Group

Stains on Teeth

Thursday, October 22nd, 2009

INTRINSIC STAINS

Stains beneath the tooth enamel are known as intrinsic stains. This type of staining is commonly caused by:

  • Aging
  • Defects within the tooth
  • Use of certain antibiotics during tooth development
  • Smoking

Also, your diet can affect the brightness of your smile. The following foods and beverages often contribute to tooth stains on or beneath tooth enamel:

  • Tobacco products
  • Coffee
  • Tea
  • Red wine
  • Colored juices
  • Curry
  • Soy
  • Cola drinks
  • Minerals in well water

WHITENING OPTIONS

If you are concerned about the color of your teeth, ask your dentist or hygienist about various options for tooth whitening, including:

CREST PROFESSIONAL WHITESTRIPS

Whitening Technology that gives you noticeably whiter teeth

Crest® Whitestrips contain hydrogen peroxide, which gets at stains beneath the tooth surface

Thin, clear, flexible strips adhere directly to teeth

Just 30 minutes, twice a day for 3 weeks

Color improvement over 21 days’ use

KEEPING TEETH WHITE

After any whitening procedure, daily care is key in keeping teeth bright. Brushing with a whitening toothpaste like Crest® Vivid White will help to maintain whiter teeth and ensure good oral health. Sodium hexametaphosphate, a key ingredient in Crest Vivid White, provides stain removal and protection benefits.

Source: http://www.dentalcare.com/

Anderson Dental Group