Chewing Gum

CHEWING SUGARLESS GUM

(An Article from the American Dental Association)

What is chewing gum?

Chewing gum in various forms has been around since ancient times.  Today, the base used for most gum products is a blend of synthetic materials (elastomeres, resins and waxes in various proportions). Chewing gum is quite popular  and consumers may be used to thinking about chewing gum as a kind of candy.However, those chewing gums with the ADA Seal recognizes chewing gum that has demonstrated scientifically that it can protect the teeth. 

What does chewing gum do?

The physical act of chewing increases the flow of saliva in your mouth.  If you chew after eating, the increased salivary flow can help neutralize and wash away the acids that are produced when food is broken down by the bacteria in plaque on your teeth.  Over time, acid can break down tooth enamel, creating the conditions for decay.  Increased saliva flow also carries with it more calcium and phosphate to help strengthen tooth enamel. Clinical studies have shown that chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes following meals can help prevent tooth decay.  In the future, look for chewing gum that delivers a variety of therapeutic agents that could provide additional benefits to those provided by the ability of gum to mechanically stimulate saliva flow. For instance, some gum might contain active agents that could enhance the gum’s ability to remineralize teeth and reduce decay, or enable gum to help reduce plaque and gingivitis.

Does chewing gum replace brushing and flossing?

No, chewing gum is an adjunct to brushing and flossing, but not a substitute for either. The ADA recommends brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and cleaning plaque from between your teeth once a day with dental floss or other interproximal dental cleaner.

What is in chewing gum and how is it made?

Chewing gum typically consists of:

• Gum base    
• Artificial sweeteners (such as aspartame, sorbitol or mannitol)    
• Softeners (glycerin or other vegetable oil products)    
• Flavorings and colorings

The process for making chewing gum has six basic steps:

• Gum base ingredients are melted together   
• Other ingredients are added until the warm mix thickens like dough   
• Machines called extruders are used to blend, smooth and form the gum   
• The gum is shaped (flattened or molded into tablet shapes and coated)   
• The gum is cooled for up to 48 hours in a temperature controlled room   
• The gum is packag

How does chewing gum get the Seal?

A company earns the ADA Seal for its product by showing with scientific evidence that the chewing gum is effective for one or more specific indications, such as reducing plaque acids, promoting remineralization of tooth enamel, reducing cavities and/or reducing gingivitis.  Studies must also show that the gum is safe to oral tissues.  The manufacturer must provide the results of both laboratory studies and clinical studies in humans.

Does the ADA award its Seal to sugar-containing gum?

To date, the only gum with the ADA Seal are sugarless.  They are sweetened by non-cavity causing sweeteners such as aspartame, sorbitol or mannitol.  Chewing sugarless gum has been shown to increase the flow of saliva, thereby reducing plaque acid, strengthening the teeth and reducing tooth decay.  Of course, chewing sugar-containing gum also increases saliva flow, but it also contains sugar which is used by plaque bacteria to produce decay-causing acids. Further research needs to be done to determine the effects of chewing sugar-containing gum on tooth decay.

Why look for chewing gum that displays the ADA Seal?

The Seal is your assurance that the Sugar-free Chewing Gum has met the ADA criteria for safety and effectiveness. You can trust that claims made on packaging and labeling for ADA-Accepted products are true, because companies must verify all of the information to the ADA. Look for the ADA Seal because products with the ADA Seal say what they do and do what they say.

Oral Health and Pregnancy

Oral Health and Pregnancy

 Pregnancy is one of the most exciting times in a woman's life. To prepare for this adventure of motherhood, the body undergoes several changes particularly due to hormones. One of these changes in hormones result in an inflammatory response to the bacteria in the mouth. The gums in a pregnant woman can become red and swollen and bleed easily. 

Gum problems associated with pregnancy is known as pregnancy gingivitis. It could start as early as the second month of pregnancy and could become severe by the eighth month.

Why is this Important

 There is evidence suggesting that oral health, particularly gum disease, may have an impact on the occurrence of preterm births, resulting in low birth weight babies. Pregnant women with (gum) disease may be seven times more likely to have a baby that’s born too early and too small.The exact connection between poor oral health and preterm birth is unknown. It is thought that gum disease may lead to premature birth by the bacteria in the mouth spreading to the placenta or amniotic fluid, and also that systemic inflammation caused by gum disease may lead to preterm labor and membrane rupture. The likely problem is a chemical found in oral bacteria called prostaglandin, which can induce labor and which occurs in very high levels in severe cases of gum disease.

About half of women experience pregnancy gingivitis, beginning in the second or third month of pregnancy that increases in severity throughout the eighth month. This condition can be uncomfortable and cause swelling, bleeding, redness or tenderness in the gum tissue. In some cases, gums swollen by pregnancy gingivitis can react strongly to irritants and form large growths, called “pregnancy tumors”, which are not cancerous and are generally painless. If a tumor persists, it may require removal by a dentist.

It is very important for pregnant women to maintain their oral health.

What Should a Pregnant Woman do

Follow these steps to prevent gum and teeth problems during pregnancy:

1. Brush and floss your teeth every day.
2. Get your teeth cleaned by a dentist or dental hygienist while you are pregnant.
3. Call your dental hygienist or dentist if your gums bleed or are
swollen.
4. Eat healthy foods like milk, yogurt, carrots, cheese, broccoli and oranges. These foods have vitamins to help your teeth and gums be healthy
5. Limit sweet drinks and avoid refined sugars
6.Drink Fluoridated water

 Myth vs. Fact
There are many myths about dental health and pregnancy.

It is important that during pregnancy moms visit their dentist regularly and take especially good care of their teeth and gums.

• Is it safe for pregnant women to go to the dentist?It is not only safe for pregnant women to visit their dentist it is an integral part of ensuring a healthy pregnancy. Hormone fluctuations during pregnancy can affect the gum tissue, making it red, inflamed and sore, a condition called pregnancy gingivitis. This can be made even worse by plaque and bacteria that has accumulated along the gumline and between the teeth. Generally preventive treatments like dental cleanings are recommended after the first trimester of pregnancy and will help to keep gums healthy.

• What if I have a dental emergency and need x-rays?It is always best to check with your medical provider for his/her recommendations and guidelines regarding additional dental procedures. However untreated dental decay or infection can pose a risk to you and your baby. Radiation from taking x-rays is very low and dental health professionals are trained to take every precaution to minimize any risk. Dental radiographs are not contraindicated if one is trying to become pregnant or is breast feeding.

• If I have morning sickness or lots of indigestion during pregnancy can it affect my teeth?
  Yes, excessive vomiting due to morning sickness and the acids related to indigestion can harm your teeth. Acids from the stomach can remove minerals from tooth enamel and cause decay. Your dental health professional may give you a prescription strength topical fluoride or recommend an over the counter fluoride rinse to use during pregnancy. Topical fluorides have been proven effective in reducing decay. 

• Is it true that an unhealthy mouth can impact the health of my baby?There is some evidence suggesting oral health, particularly gum disease, may have an impact on the occurrence of preterm births, resulting in low birth weight babies. The exact connection between poor oral health and preterm birth is unknown.

• If I crave sweets during my pregnancy what can I do to keep my teeth healthy? Eating sweets and snacking more often between meals can cause dental decay. It is important to limit sweets to mealtime and choose healthy snacks between meals. Brushing twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing at least once daily and visiting your dental health professional regularly will ensure healthy teeth and gums before, during and after pregnancy.

References
1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Division of Oral Health. Links Between Oral and General Health. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Office of the Surgeon General. October 4, 2004. http://www.cdc.gov/OralHealth/publications/factsheets/sgr2000_fs4.htm
2. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Oral Health in America: A Report of the Surgeon General. Rockville, MD: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, 2000.
3 Wisconsin  Department of Health

Esthetic Orthodontics

 Esthetic Orthodontics

As an adult, I wanted to straighten my teeth for esthetic and oral  health reasons. I researched different orthodontic treatment modalities and decided I wanted a removable and discreet option. There are several ways to correct occlusal and bite problems with orthodontics and depending on the severity of the a persons occlusion, surgery might even be indicated.

Many adult patients could benefit from Orthodontic treatment not just for improving the look of how teeth are aligned, but also to alleviate problems associated with malocclusion such as gum disease, bone loss, tooth decay, chewing and digestive problems. However, one of the reasons Adults opt out of  getting orthodontic treatment is the thought of having to wear traditional metal braces. With this in mind, the field of Orthodontics has evolved to include esthetic options that are specifically targeted  to help the Adult patient. There are different esthetic treatment options available. These include ceramic braces, sapphire braces, lingual braces and clear aligner trays/ retainers.

Importance Of Orthodontic Treatment
 
1) It can boost a person's self-image as the teeth, jaws and lips become properly aligned,
2)It can alleviate or prevent physical health problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, bone destruction, chewing and digestive difficulties. 
3) It can correct speech impairments, tooth loss, chipped teeth and other dental injuries.

Types of Esthetic Orthodontics

 Ceramic Braces. 
Typically more esthetic than traditional metal braces. Typically tooth colored ceramics or transparent ceramics that aim to blend with your existing tooth shade.

Pros

They blend in with most teeth, particularly if they are not perfectly white.
Some people feel that they are more comfortable than metal and irritate your gums less.
 They are very strong, and usually do not break

Cons
The clear or white ligatures (little elastics that hold the arch wire to the brackets) can stain, which defeats esthetics of the ceramic braces.
Ceramic brackets are are usually more expensive than traditional metal brackets.
Treatment can take a few months longer in ceramic braces.
From a purely esthetic point of view, they are a bit larger than metal brackets.
If you have severe problems, they may not be strong enough to withstand the forces of some types of treatment.

 

Clear Sapphire Inspire! Brand Braces

 




  


They are manufactured by Ormco, are made of pure monocrystalline sapphire and are very translucent. 

Pros
They are very strong and do not stain.
If your teeth are already very white, they look invisible as they are translucent

Cons
Can Stand out if your teth are not as white

The pros and cons for Sapphire brackets are the same as those for Ceramic brackets.



Lingual braces.
These braces are typically placed behind your teeth and are not visible to people.



 




  


  Pros

Virtually invisible to other people, based on wear it is placed


 Cons

They tend to hurt your tongue and make it difficult to speak at first.
More expensive than traditional metal,  because treatment is specialized.
Treatment can take a few months longer than traditional braces.
If you have severe problems, or need certain types of appliances, lingual treatment may not be applicable.




Invisalign or Clear Aligner

 Invisalign braces are great for people who do not have severe occlusal and bite problems. The "braces" consist of strong removable plastic trays that are custom fabricated. They look invisible and are barely noticeable when worn.

 
 Pros

They are virtually invisible.
They are easier to clean than traditional braces.
They don't irritate your gums as much as traditional braces.
They do not stain at all.



 Cons

Similar cost to traditional braces. In certain cases, could cost more..
Treatment can take as long as traditional braces.
In some cases, you may still need traditional braces for a few months after  Invisalign treatment, to correct certain problems.
Typical discomfort associated with traditional braces are still present with clear aligners





           Before and After Pictures

10 Foods For Protecting Your Teeth And Gums 

An article from worlddental.org

A beautiful smile and healthy mouth actually can come from in addition to regular brushing and flossing a daily diet that does not lack the essential vitamins and minerals that make vital contributions to a persona’s oral health. Many people overlook the importance of good nutrition in keeping their smile beautiful and their mouth healthy. Find out 10 foods for making your smile more healthy and beautiful

1. Celery – Protects Teeth from Cavities

Celery protects your teeth in two ways, says Lana Rozenberg, D.D.S., a holistic dentist and founder of Rozenberg Dental Day Spa in New York City. The extra chewing it requires produces plenty of saliva, which neutralizes the bacteria Streptococcus mutans that causes cavities. Additionally, chomping on naturally abrasive foods massages gums and cleans between teeth. Try This: Snack on a handful of raw celery or carrots once a day for protect gums and teeth.

2. Cheese – Preserves and Rebuild Tooth Enamel

Studies from the last decade show that cheese, with its low carbohydrate and high calcium and phosphate content, provides several benefits for your teeth. It helps balance your mouth”s pH (an acidic pH encourages the growth of dental cavity-causing bacteria). Cheese also preserves and rebuilds tooth enamel and produces saliva, which kills the bacteria that cause dental cavities and gum disease. Try This: Enjoy a 1-inch cube (about 1/2 ounce) of cheese after dinner instead of a sweet dessert.

3. Green Tea – Removes Plaque and Bad Breath

Green tea (Camellia sinensis) contains substances called catechins that kill the bacteria in your mouth that turn sugar into plaque (a sticky mass of bacteria, sugars, proteins, and fats that produces cavity-causing acid when it comes in contact with sugary or starchy foods). Catechins also wipe out the bacteria that cause bad breath. Try This: Drink 2 to 5 cups of green tea (regular or decaffeinated) a day, says Mindy Green, director of research at the Herb Research Foundation in Boulder, Colo. Consider making a thermos of green tea to drink at work. The night before, steep 3 to 4 green tea bags in 4 cups of boiling-hot water in a covered thermos for three to five minutes. Remove the bags. Serve the tea the next day over ice or after reheating it.

4. Kiwis – Prevents Gum Disease

For their size, kiwis pack more vitamin C than any other fruit. In fact, one large kiwi supplies more than 100 percent of your recommended daily amount. If you don”t get enough vitamin C, research shows that the collagen network in your gums can break down, making your gums tender and more susceptible to the bacteria that cause periodontal (gum) disease. Try This: Instead of topping your morning oatmeal with brown sugar, use a sliced kiwi.

5. Onions – Kills Bad for Mouth Bacteria

Onions contain powerful antibacterial sulfur compounds. In a 1997 test tube study, onions killed various types of bacteria, including S. mutans. Research indicates that they are most powerful when eaten freshly peeled and raw. Of course, raw onions can do a number on your breath, so be sure to have some fresh parsley on hand (see below). Try This: Add a few onion slices to salads and sandwiches each day.

6. Parsley – Bad Breath Remedy and Sweet-Smelling Breath Creator

Chewing parsley or mint leaves after a pungent meal will help you maintain sweet-smelling breath. These herbs contain monoterpenes, volatile substances that travel quickly from your bloodstream to your lungs, where their odor is released via your breath. Try This: Top zesty dishes with a few tablespoons of minced fresh parsley or garnish dessert with a few sprigs of fresh mint.

7. Sesame Seeds – Cleaning Teeth and Removing Plaque

According to fossils, our Paleolithic ancestors had great teeth. Anthropologists suggest that this is partly due to the cleansing action of primitive foods like seeds, which slough off plaque and help build tooth enamel. Sesame seeds, for example, are also high in calcium, which helps preserve the bone around your teeth and gums. Try This: Sprinkle a tablespoon of sesame seeds on salads and steamed vegetables a few times a week for a gentle teeth cleaning and 87 mg of calcium.

8. Shiitake Mushrooms – Prevents from Creating Plaque
A 2000 study in Caries Research showed that lentinan, a sugar found in shiitake mushrooms, prevents mouth bacteria from creating plaque. Try This: A few times a week, add four to five sliced shiitakes to soups or stir-fries. Buy fresh shiitakes or dried ones, which can be reconstituted by soaking them in hot water for about 25 minutes before use.

9. Wasabi – Protect Teeth from Cavities

Otherwise known as Japanese horse-radish, this condiment not only provides zing to sushi, it also protects your teeth. A 2000 study in Biofactors revealed that the substances that make wasabi taste hot, called isothiocyanates, also inhibit the growth of cavity-causing bacteria. Try This: Eating wasabi a few times a week will protect you from cavities. For a smile-saving salad dressing, combine 3 tablespoons rice wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon wasabi paste, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil.

10. Water – Keeps Teeth and Gums Health

Drinking water keeps your gums hydrated and is the best way to stimulate saliva – your body”s greatest defense against the bacteria that cause plaque and cavities. Rinsing your mouth with water also helps wash away trapped food particles that decompose in the mouth and cause bad breath. Try This: Aim to drink six 8-ounce glasses of purified water throughout each day to keep your gums (and whole body) hydrated and to stimulate saliva. If you can”t brush your teeth after eating, be sure to rinse your mouth with water.

HOW TO GET TODDLERS TO BRUSH THEIR TEETH

   

Your toddler will be more likely to brush his/her teeth if you make the entire experience fun. I recommend  buying colorful power toothbrushes that will do a lot of the cleanup work and mesmerize them with the noise it makes at the same time.

 Regular toothbrushes can also be used if you prefer. It would help if your toddler is involved in the process of selecting their toothbrush. You could take them to the drugstore and let them choose their own toothbrush. Some feature cartoon characters on them that children love.

It is important to remember that children under 2 should not use fluoridated toothpaste. In addition, only a pea sized amount should be used when brushing their teeth.

With younger toddlers, it works best to start brushing their teeth right away, even if they only have a few of them. This way dental hygiene becomes a part of their daily routine.  Let your child watch you as you brush your own teeth, make it a fun family activity.Toddlers will usually respond with enthusiasm when you make it an entertaining experience

SOME HELPFUL TIPS  

DR WILLIAM SEARS, PARENTING MAGAZINE

Play copycat.  Bring your child into the bathroom with you to watch you brush your teeth.Toddlers like to mimic adults. Place the toothbrush where it it can be reached. While you're brushing, exaggerate a show of excitement. He'll likely be encouraged to copy what you're doing.

Make the toothbrush a toy. Let him play with it. For example, show him how to brush his teddy bear's "teeth," or even let him brush yours. Create the impression that toothbrushes are fun to use

.

Play show and tell. While you are showing your child how to "play" with the toothbrush, tell him why tooth brushing is important. Say: "Sticky stuff collects on your teeth. The sugar bugs like the sticky stuff, and if they stay there long enough, they'll eat into your teeth, and then your teeth won't be strong and white." If you have a cavity that's filled, show it to him to reinforce this point.

Use your finger as a toothbrush. If he still doesn't seem enthralled by his toothbrush, wrap a piece of gauze around your finger (you can actually purchase slip-on gauze pieces for this purpose) and use your finger to clean his teeth. Some toddlers find this less frightening than a long, plastic toothbrush. If you use toothpaste, choose one that has a flavor he likes. A word of caution: If you choose a toothpaste with fluoride, as most dentists recommend, use only a pea-size dab no more than once a day. Many children this age will swallow toothpaste. As a preventative medicine, the mineral fluoride has a narrow risk/benefit ratio: Just the right amount of fluoride (via brushing) can help protect against tooth decay, but too much (via digestion) can contribute to weakened enamel

.

When nothing else will work: Try the two-person technique we resorted to in our family to successfully brush the teeth of our resistant toddler. Have your child lie on your lap with his head facing you, while your partner sits in front of you knee-to-knee, supporting your child's body in his lap. Have your partner lean forward and hold your child's arms and legs while you gently brush his teeth from above (a position that will give you easier access and a better view).

Your child will eventually catch on that brushing his teeth is a regular and necessary part of taking care of his whole body - and he'll enjoy doing it.

Welcome

Thanks for visiting our blog. The Anchor Family Dentistry blog is an extension of our Dental Office, and allows our readers be part of our practice. 

Our Practice Philosophy is to provide Health focused dentistry to our patients and to treat our Patients as we would like to be treated. 

Our Blog will highlight articles on Nutrition, Common myths in Dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, Emergencies in dentistry, Children's Dental care, Charity Dental Care. 

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