SERVICE WITH A SMILE
By maintaining good oral-health practices at home and scheduling regular office visits, most patients can avoid many common dental problems. Daily brushing and flossing, and the application of sealants, can help youngsters avoid tooth decay. Adults can avert their most common problem, gum disease, with regular professional care. In cases where tooth loss, breakage, or misalignment does occur, the dentist is expert in a variety of advanced restoration and replacement techniques. In addition, there are a number of cosmetic procedures, including tooth whitening, veneers, and bonding, that effectively remedy chipped, discolored, and gapped teeth. The more patients know about dental health, the better their smiles. In the weeks and months ahead, this column will address all aspects of dental care.
GETTING YOUR TEETH INTO SHAPE
It only takes an irregularity or defect as seemingly slight as a small chip or worn edge on a front tooth to significantly detract from a smile. Fortunately, the dentist may be able to restore the smile to its former beauty through tooth contouring and reshaping. This cosmetic procedure involves changing the size or shape of the irregular tooth, thereby restoring it to its former appearance. The procedure typically entails one office visit, during which the dentist uses various tools to carefully polish small areas of the surface enamel. Then, the edges of the newly reshaped tooth are smoothed. After contouring, the treated tooth fits in better with adjacent teeth in terms of both shape and size.
IF PATIENTS HAD A WAND
If dental patients could wave a magic wand, many might wish that the discomfort associated with an injection of local anesthetic would disappear. In fact, it is not the prick of the needle so much as the pressure and volume of fluid being injected into the gums and soft tissues that some find so uncomfortable. Understanding this phenomenon can help patients realize why the computer-controlled local anesthesia injection system known as The Wand can provide a more comfortable and effective anesthetic delivery. The Wand utilizes a microprocessor to automatically compensate for different tissue densities and deliver anesthetic at a constant pressure and volume that is typically below the pain threshold of a patient, resulting in greater comfort.
JUST SCRAPING BY
Without proper treatment, older patients with periodontal disease face the potential for tooth loss. The object of treatment for periodontal (gum) disease is to remove plaque; calculus; and other products associated with plaque accumulation that have the potential to destroy gums, bone, and supporting structures around the teeth. To this end, the dentist and/or hygienist may scale (scrape) teeth to remove sticky plaque and calculus (hardened plaque) from exposed tooth surfaces. Accessible root surfaces may also be planed to make them smooth. As a result of these efforts, bacteria are removed and find it difficult to reattach to tooth surfaces. This, in turn, fosters the reattachment of connective tissue to the tooth, which serves to hold teeth in place.
GOING THROUGH A ROUGH PATCH
A comprehensive oral exam involves both an examination of the teeth and a close inspection of the soft tissues of the mouth. One condition the dentist or hygienist will be looking for are “leukoplakia.” This generic term applies to any type of white patch that occurs inside the mouth that cannot be easily scraped off. In some cases, these patches represent calluses or some other benign condition. In others, leukoplakia are associated with smoking and regular, heavy alcohol use. If so, they are considered to be a precancerous condition. Smokers and heavy drinkers may have tongues with white or brown coatings that are common manifestations of leukoplakia. Most cases are not serious, but others could be life-threatening if left untreated.
Your dentist has the skills and tools to ensure that early signs of cancer and pre-cancerous conditions are identified.
NERVOUS ABOUT SCHEDULING AN APPOINTMENT?
Many people experience dental anxiety to the point where they deny themselves the treatment they need to maintain good oral health. If the thought of sitting in a dentist’s chair makes you nervous, you are encouraged to call the office and schedule a consultation. During your visit, the dentist can discuss the various methods that can be utilized to make your visits as comfortable as possible. To begin with, sedation treatment is available, which can render the whole experience a pleasant one for patients. Beyond that, there is needle-free anesthesia and lasers that can take the place of drills. Both are designed to render treatment pain-free. Most importantly, the dentist can establish a truthful, trusting relationship that assures confidence.
We are sympathetic about these feelings, and you can ask us about ways to help. For all your dental concerns, we invite you to come see us at the office of MICHAEL T. COLLETTI. We provide a full range of dental treatments, including sedation, preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry. Our entire staff is dedicated to helping you look and feel better. Please call 630.620.8304 to schedule an appointment. We’re located at 237 S. Main Street, Lombard, where you’ll find our office to be as pleasant as it is professional every time you visit. Healthy teeth and gums for life.
PREGNANCY AND TOOTH LOSS
The old adage “for every child she has, a mother loses a tooth” has largely been disparaged by dentists as outmoded. However, recent research suggests that there is a bit of truth behind this old wives’ tale. According to the study of 2,635 women, those with no children had lost one to two teeth while women with children tended to lose more. Looking specifically at women in the 35- to 49-years age range, researchers found that those with just one child had lost an average of three teeth, and women with two children lost an average of four. The number of teeth lost increased to five for women with three children and seven for those with four or more children.
P.S. It’s not that tooth loss inevitably comes with pregnancy, but that pregnancy poses challenges (such as susceptibility to gingivitis) that women must adequately address in order to maintain good oral health.
NEW WAY TO END RECESSION
A promising new treatment may provide dental patients with another option for treating receding gums. The traditional treatment for this problem involves surgically grafting tissue from the roof of the patient’s mouth and transplanting it onto the patient’s receding gums. The alternate procedure, known as “guided tissue regeneration” (GTR), begins with drawing blood from the patient, from which blood cells known as platelets are retrieved. The value of these platelets to dental researchers rests with the fact that they are rich in proteins called “growth factors,” which promote tissue repair and wound healing. Researchers found that soaking a collagen membrane with the platelets, then suturing it over the exposed tooth root, provided results comparable to the grafting method.
P.S. While guided tissue regeneration for the purpose of treating receding gums is not yet widely available, it is expected to be performed much more often in the future.
DO MEN BRUSH AS OFTEN AS WOMEN?
When the American Dental Association recently conducted a national survey, they found that men and women differ when it comes to taking care of their teeth and gums. According to the nationally representative survey of 1,000 Americans ages 18 and older, 86 percent of women brush their teeth twice or more a day while only 66 percent of men make the same effort to keep their teeth clean. As far as flossing is concerned, there is room for improvement for both genders. Slightly less than half of those surveyed (49%) indicated that they floss their teeth once a day or more. One out of three people surveyed think that bleeding gums after brushing their teeth is normal—but it is not.
P.S. According to the survey mentioned above, women replace toothbrushes every three to four months on average while men retain theirs an average of five months.
CLOSING THE GAP
Gaps between the upper two front teeth may appear for the simple reason that there is more room than necessary to accommodate all of the teeth. Otherwise, it may be that the muscle attachment (frenum) that is found between the upper lip and the upper dental arch (in the area of the two front teeth) is too large or fibrous. If so, the front teeth may splay. A simple surgical procedure may be all that is necessary in this case to relieve the pressure exerted by the frenum. After that, the gap between the two front teeth may be closed using a bonding procedure that builds up tooth material on both sides of the space.
P.S. A frenectomy is a surgical procedure in which the frenum is cut away from the gum so that its attachment will be further away from the teeth.
INCORRECTLY PEGGED FROM THE BEGINNING
So-called “peg laterals” are small, cone-shaped teeth that develop on either side on the top two front teeth. These undersized teeth appear to be “baby teeth” surrounded by larger permanent teeth. As a result, the smile looks imbalanced. Fortunately, the dentist can restore peg laterals to the size of normally developed incisors by building them up with composite material. This tooth-colored resin restoration requires no anesthetic and can be accomplished in one visit. After the dentist acid-etches the tooth’s enamel so it can properly accept the resin, layer upon layer of resin is applied to the tooth. After the composite material cures properly, the augmented tooth is shaped and polished. The result compares favorably with surrounding natural teeth.
STICKING TO YOUR GUMS
Composite restoration restores a peg lateral to normal shape, color and position. There are an abundance of innovative technologies and devices available to help us improve the quality and comfort of care we deliver. Preventive care starts at home. At the office of MICHAEL T. COLLETTI, we stress preventive dentistry for the entire family. Be sure to regularly brush, floss, and have professional cleanings. When was the last time you had a dental checkup? Please call 630.620.8304 to schedule an appointment. Smiles are our business. We’re located at 237 S. Main Street, Lombard. We cater to your needs.
It is estimated that four out of five U.S. adults have some form of gum disease, which ranges from simple gum inflammation (gingivitis) to serious disease (periodontitis) that has the potential to damage bone and loosen teeth. For these reasons alone, adults have good reason to stop gum disease before it has a chance to cause severe damage. Without conscientious attention to brushing and flossing at home and regular professional cleanings, gums may become red and swollen, and bleed easily. In addition, the gums may form pockets around teeth that harbor bacteria-laden plaque. This colorless, sticky film can solidify as tartar, which has been likened to the barnacles on a ship and is similarly difficult to remove.
ADOPTING GOOD HABITS
Even before infants’ baby teeth erupt, parents can take steps to ensure their children’s oral health. Beginning with using a damp gauze pad to gently wipe baby’s gums, parents can remove residual milk, formula, and fruit juices from the mouth. These liquids contain sugars that bacteria feed on and produce acids that attack teeth. For this reason, a baby should not be allowed to fall asleep with a bottle of juice or formula in his or her mouth. Parents should start brushing their children’s teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of toothpaste as soon as the first tooth appears. Flossing to prevent cavities between teeth should start when two teeth have erupted next to each other.
February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. Primary teeth typically begin to appear when a baby is between age six months and one year. Primary teeth help children chew and speak. This column is brought to you in the interest of better dental health. At the office of MICHAEL T. COLLETTI, you can expect us to give you gentle, comforting care using the most up-to-date techniques and equipment. We’re located at 237 S. Main Street, Lombard, where our trained professional staff works as a team to make your visits pleasant. Please call 630.620.8304 to schedule an appointment. We will always discuss your treatment options with you. We cater to your needs.
MAKING THE CEREC CHOICE
CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) is CAD/CAM technology that utilizes a camera, computer, and milling machine to fabricate a precise tooth-colored, single-tooth restoration. This advanced computerized technique enables the dentist to create inlays, onlays, and full crowns in a single office visit without impressions, temporaries, or second office visits. This is accomplished by using a special camera to take a picture of the damaged tooth, the image of which is then displayed on a screen. The dentist next uses CAD (Computer Aided Design) technology to design a restoration that is then milled from porcelain using CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) technology. Within one hour, the patient can enjoy a beautifully restored tooth.
From common problems to gum disease, we provide an array of dental services to meet your needs all in one convenient location. Using the latest technology, such as described in today’s column, our experienced staff works together as a team to give you exceptional quality treatment from the time you walk in for your initial visit. At the office of MICHAEL T. COLLETTI, preventive dentistry is our goal for every patient. Please call 630.620.8304 to schedule an appointment. We’re located at 237 S. Main Street, Lombard, where we take pride in our ability to provide quality dental care in a relaxed and comfortable environment. Healthy teeth and gums for life.
We cater to your needs.
P.S. Because CEREC porcelain crowns contain no metal, there is no dark line at the gumline.
SUFFICIENT BONE FOR AN IMPLANT?
One of the primary requirements for successful dental implant surgery is a sufficient amount of bone to accommodate the titanium implant. In most cases, bone will usually fill in the socket left by an extraction within three months. However, if the walls of the socket are particularly thin, there may not be enough bone to accept the implant. This is particularly true of the upper and lower front teeth, where there may be only a thin ridge of bone (unlike the wide area of jawbone at the back of the mouth, where the molars reside). If so, a bone graft can be placed in the socket to help the body fill the hole left by the tooth root with bone.
Almost any adult in reasonably good health is a candidate for dental implants. We invite you to come see us for all of your dental needs. Good experience with dentistry is based on making the right choice in a family dentist and in taking the right steps to keep dental costs at a minimum through self-care at home between visits. At the office of MICHAEL T. COLLETTI, we strive to teach good oral hygiene. In the long run you will have better dental health and, of course, spend far fewer dollars. Please call 630.620.8304 to schedule an appointment. We’re located at 237 S. Main Street, Lombard, where we’re currently accepting new patients. Healthy teeth and gums for life.
ROOT CAUSE
The reason that so many patients regard root canal (endodontic) treatment as painful is that they confuse the condition that makes treatment necessary with the treatment itself. If dental decay is not dealt with promptly, bacteria may infect tooth pulp. This inflammation or infection can, in turn, lead to an abscess if left untreated. Symptoms include aching or throbbing pain in the tooth. At this point, endodontic treatment is indicated. This procedure, which relieves painful symptoms, involves removal of the nerve and vascular tissue (pulp) from the root and pulp chamber, as well as any associated decayed tooth structure. After the inside of the tooth is carefully shaped and cleaned, it is filled, sealed, and ready for a crown.
Modern root canal therapy can usually be performed with little or no discomfort. At the office of MICHAEL T. COLLETTI, our experienced dental and support staff takes pride in providing the most comprehensive care possible for all members of your family in a relaxed, comfortable setting. Remember, when you look good, you feel good. We have the technology that can give you a confident and beautiful smile. When you come to visit us at 237 S. Main Street, Lombard, you can expect the highest level of restorative dentistry available. Call us at 630.620.8304 for an appointment. Healthy teeth and gums for life.
WISE CHOICE?
“Wisdom teeth,” which are the last teeth to erupt in the mouth, are somewhat controversial. While some people retain these teeth their whole lives, others choose to have them extracted, sometimes before they emerge from beneath the surface of the gums. The decision to remove wisdom teeth or leave them alone is one that should be made with the dentist. During an evaluation between ages 16 and 19 years of age, the dentist may recommend extraction if a wisdom tooth is crowding other teeth, causes pain, or has become impacted (stuck below the surface). Infection is another good reason to have a wisdom tooth extracted. Impacted wisdom teeth are often extracted by age 20 to prevent potential future problems.
The relative ease at which your dentist can extract your wisdom teeth depends on their position. The entire staff of the office of MICHAEL T. COLLETTI encourages your questions about comprehensive dental care. We supply superior oral health care for the entire family. For answers to your oral health issue questions we invite you to call our office at 630.620.8304. Your health is our first priority. We are pleased to provide you with state-of-the-art dental care at 237 S. Main Street, Lombard. Our goal is to make each visit to our office a comfortable and positive experience. Healthy teeth and gums for life.
CORROSIVE EFFECT OF EATING DISORDER
The eating disorder known as bulimia poses a problem for the teeth that may be overlooked. Repeated purging of stomach acids can cause significant loss of tooth enamel. In one such case, a person with a history of bulimia began treatment to correct a closed bite, characterized by decreased vertical tooth dimension and an abnormal overbite in which the lower jaw protrudes. Due to stomach acid-induced enamel loss, the patient’s incisors lost one-third to one-half of their original length. The closed bite was caused by over-eruption of the lower incisors into the space created by eroded teeth. Fortunately, treatment of the eating problem led to aesthetic correction involving porcelain veneer crowns that could be used to restore the damaged teeth.
Many people suffering from bulimia are able to hide the disorder from others but it is more difficult to keep it a secret from their dentists. Changes inside the mouth of a bulimic can be detected during the course of a routine dental examination. A good experience with dentistry is based on making the right choice in a family dentist. If you don’t have a dentist at this time, at the office of MICHAEL T. COLLETTI we’re currently accepting new patients. Please call 630.620.8304 to schedule an appointment. We’re located at 237 S. Main Street, Lombard. Healthy teeth and gums for life.
PLASMA JETS INSTEAD OF DRILLS?
The future of dentistry may be more akin to science fiction than patients might ever have believed. In fact, it seems that new research involving streams of bacteria-killing plasma may replace today’s drills in the near future. Plasma is formed when electrons are emitted by energized gases. In this case, researchers used a relatively cool beam of purple plasma to eliminate oral bacteria in dental cavities. The plasma beam removed dentin (the material beneath the enamel that comprises the majority of the tooth) more selectively than a conventional drill. While this research is preliminary, researchers believe that plasma jets can be ready for removing tooth decay in as few as three to five years.
This would certainly make visits to the dentist's office a bit less nerve-racking. Talk to us at the office of MICHAEL T. COLLETTI about any dental concerns. As your dental professional, we pride ourselves on providing the highest quality dental care for you and your family, in a relaxing and comfortable environment. A good experience with dentistry is based on making the right choice in a family dentist and in taking steps to keep dental costs at a minimum through self-care at home between visits. Please call 630.620.8304 to schedule an appointment. We’re located at 237 S. Main Street, Lombard. Healthy teeth and gums for life.
LASER TOOTH-DECAY DETECTION
While x-rays and probing instruments are important tools for identifying tooth decay, a laser that detects cavities can uncover even the smallest amounts of decay in the hardest-to-reach places. The DIAGNodent utilizes a laser-probe hand piece that emits pulsed light of a known wavelength on tooth surfaces. Once a baseline measurement of the patient’s healthy tooth surfaces is established, further examination of potentially problematic areas creates changing levels of fluorescent light, which the unit’s internal processor interprets. An audible signal warns of an indication of caries (tooth decay). The laser unit can also be used to keep track of early symptoms of tooth decay, which translates into earlier treatment and better tooth preservation.
DIAGNOdent is the revolutionary new way to find even the smallest areas of tooth decay. By using this new technology, the office of MICHAEL T. COLLETTI is able to target and treat all of your small problem areas before they turn into larger issues that require more complicated procedures. At your next appointment we’ll be happy to discuss all your dental options in detail with you. We are a highly qualified and experienced team of professionals who want you to look and feel your best. Call us at 630.620.8304 and we’ll gladly answer any questions you may have. We’re located at 237 S. Main Street, Lombard. Come smile with us! Healthy teeth and gums for life.
DENTURE-ADHESIVE ADVISORY
Denture-wearing patients should know that GlaxoSmithKline has ceased manufacture of their denture adhesives Super Poligrip Original, Ultra Fresh, and Extra Care over concerns of “potential health problems associated with the long-term excessive use of our zinc-containing denture adhesive products.” While the manufacturer states that their products are safe when used as directed, use of excessive amounts of the product over a period of years may pose a threat of neurological symptoms and blood problems (such as anemia) linked with ingestion of the adhesive. It should be noted that zinc is not absorbed through the mouth, but only when swallowed. As a precaution against unwanted effects arising from misuse of the product, GlaxoSmithKline plans to reformulate their products without zinc.
Do you use denture-adhesive? As is the case in many products, there are a number of options consumers have regarding denture adhesives. Complete denture treatment needs to be customized for each patient's particular needs. At the office of MICHAEL T. COLLETTI, we are currently accepting new patients. If you know of anyone in need of quality dental care we would appreciate your referrals. We’re located at 237 S. Main Street, Lombard, where our purpose is to help people reach and commit to the highest level of dental health personally appropriate to them. Please call 630.620.8304 to schedule an appointment. Healthy teeth and gums for life.
PROFESSIONALLY SUPERVISE TOOTH WHITENING
Even if you’re considering using an over-the-counter tooth whitener, the American Dental Association recommends that you consult with your dentist. This recommendation is made because tooth-whitening systems containing carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide can be uncomfortable for those with sensitive teeth or gum recession. In addition, most products will only whiten natural tooth enamel, which means that the presence of tooth-colored filings, veneers, crowns, or partial dentures may yield uneven results. With this in mind, the dentist can evaluate whether tooth-whitening is a good idea for your teeth. While tooth whitening usually reduces most stains caused by age, smoking, and regular coffee/tea drinking, it will not remove tooth discoloration caused by the use of tetracycline in children under age 8.
We’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have on the subject of tooth whitening. Your smile care needs deserve an exceptional dental office, with a professional care team who provides leading-edge care and more comforts than you ever thought possible in a dentist’s office. At the office of MICHAEL T. COLLETTI, we want to do more than meet your expectations – we want to exceed them. We’re located at 237 S. Main Street, Lombard, where we make it a point to get to know you and the specific needs of your family. It’s important to us. Please call 630.620.8304 to schedule an appointment. Having nice looking teeth gives a boost to health and happiness. Healthy teeth and gums for life.
FULL MOUTH RECONSTRUCTION
In some cases, patients’ teeth may be so decayed, injured/fractured, or worn/eroded that they may require extensive treatment known as “full mouth reconstruction.” Also known as “full mouth restoration” and “full mouth rehabilitation,” this rebuilding/restoring process typically involves every tooth in both the upper and lower jaws. The process begins with a thorough examination and evaluation of the patient’s teeth, gums, and occlusion (bite). It continues with an assessment of the color, shape, size, and proportion of the teeth with respect to how they relate to the gums, lips, mouth, side profile, and face. Then, after taking x-rays, impressions, and photographs, the dentist (in conjunction with specialists, if necessary) can recommend procedures and techniques for totally restoring the teeth.
P.S. Full mouth restoration can include procedures such as crown lengthening; gum recontouring; jaw surgery; permanent restorations (crowns, bridges, inlays/onlays, veneers, and implants); and orthodontics.
ON PINS AND NEEDLES
Thanks to a host of technical and procedural developments, most patients view a visit to the dentist with little, if any, trepidation. However, if you are wary of going to the dentist, you are not alone. It is estimated that one in 20 people suffers from severe anxiety about dentistry (known as odontophobia), and about one-third of all people say they experience moderate anxiety when visiting the dentist. Fortunately, the dentist can effectively work with anxious and fearful patients who make their concerns known. Patients can avail themselves of treatments such as relaxation techniques and tranquilizers/sedation to lower their tension levels. Recent research shows that the ancient Chinese treatment of acupuncture also effectively quells patient anxiety and pain.
Sedation dentistry enables patients with special needs to undergo treatment without anxiety. We believe that a patient who understands his dental care options will make the best choices, so patient education is an important part of our practice. At the office of MICHAEL T. COLLETTI, we take time to listen to your concerns and develop a personalized plan to enhance your smile. Everyone wants a beautiful smile – and everyone should have a healthy one. We’re located at 237 S. Main Street, Lombard. Call 630.620.8304 to schedule an appointment for professional, gentle dental care. Healthy teeth and gums for life.
P.S. According to a recent study, dental patients who underwent five minutes of acupuncture treatment saw their Beck Anxiety Inventory scores drop from 26.5 to 11.5.
COSMETIC BENEFIT OF DENTAL IMPLANTS
Aside from restoring biting and chewing capability to the mouth, dental implants also serve a cosmetic function. The most obvious benefit to an implant patient’s appearance is that the replacement tooth fills in the gap left by the lost tooth with a natural-looking substitute. On a deeper level, dental implants help patients avert bone loss. Without implants, missing teeth and associated bone loss cause the lower third of the face to collapse and shrink inward. As the anchoring portion of a dental implant forms a strong bond with the jaw, it stimulates the surrounding bone and preserves it. As a result, the bone loss that would otherwise be inevitable with missing teeth is avoided.
If you have any questions about your chances for replacing lost teeth through the latest techniques call the office of MICHAEL T. COLLETTI at 630.620.8304. We can provide you with implants, dentures, bridges and crowns, as well as general dental treatment for the entire family. We offer complete dental health services for the whole family. We want you to look and feel your best. For a happy, healthy, and good-looking smile, we urge you to have a check-up soon. We’re located at 237 S. Main Street, Lombard. Healthy teeth and gums for life.
P.S. One of the factors that is used to assess a patient’s suitability for a dental implant is the amount and density of underlying bone in the jaw.
GUM TREATMENT MAY HELP DIABETICS
Recent research has uncovered links between gum disease and other parts of the body that previously may have seemed unlikely. For instance, periodontitis has been associated with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke, which makes a good case for addressing gum inflammation. More recently, researchers have discovered another potential benefit of keeping gum disease at bay. According to research, it has been found that treating periodontal disease in diabetics may lower their insulin levels. Researchers suggest that the connection is based on bacterial infections of the mouth that cause inflammation, which results in chemical changes that reduce the effectiveness of insulin produced in the body. As a consequence, diabetics find it more difficult to control their blood sugar.
P.S. Previous research has found that 90 percent of patients with periodontal disease were at risk for developing Type 2 diabetes.
STRINGING ALONG
The reason that dentists insist that their patients floss (as well as brush) their teeth is because flossing does nearly half the work necessary to remove “plaque.” Unless this sticky bacteria-laden substance is removed from between teeth, where toothbrush bristles may not reach, tooth decay and gum disease will result. Patients with receding gums or large spaces between their teeth are advised to use a flat, wide dental tape. If teeth are closely spaced, thin floss is best, especially non-shredding floss. Patients with bridges and braces are likely to find it necessary to use a floss threader to get underneath restorations or wires between teeth. There is also floss with a stiff end that does the job equally well.
P.S. Patients who do not have the dexterity needed to use dental floss may want to try soft wooden plaque removers.
GETTING TO THE ROOT
In the event of a tooth becoming abscessed (due to infection) or traumatized (due to injury), it is often necessary to perform root canal therapy to remove the dead or damaged root pulp. The goal of the procedure is to save the crown (white outer portion of the tooth). The pulp is the area inside the crown that extends down into the gums with nerves and blood vessels. The dentist can check to see if the tooth is alive by testing whether the patient can feel cold on the tooth or reacts to an electrical stimulation on the tooth. The procedure involves removing the pulp from the non-vital tooth and filling and sealing the area and securing the crown.
P.S. A tooth’s pulp tissue contains not only nerve fibers, but also arteries, veins, lymph vessels, and connective tissue.
IS TOOTH REGENERATION IN THE FUTURE?
Each year, dentists treat millions of cavities that result from the enamel-eating acids emitted by sugar-eating bacteria missed by flossing and brushing. While drilling out tooth decay and filling cavities with amalgam or composite fillings has proven extremely effective in preserving the remaining healthy tooth structure, patients often wish they could somehow magically eliminate any decay and simply regenerate the tooth back to its previous healthy state. That wish may someday be a reality because scientists have identified a peptide known as MSH (melanocyte-stimulating hormone) that encourages cells within decayed teeth to regenerate in about one month. When introduced into the teeth in a gel or film in the laboratory, cavities disappeared and were replaced by healthy tooth structure.
Drilling teeth and filling them is safe and effective. However, though we numb the tooth, many patients still rue the sound of that drill. This column has been brought to you in the interest of better dental health by the office of MICHAEL T. COLLETTI. Call us today at 630.620.8304 for an appointment. Have you been putting off seeing a dentist? We’re located at 237 S. Main Street, Lombard, where we’re currently accepting new patients. We provide cosmetic, functional, and preventive dental care for all ages. You can rely on us to answer all your questions about dental treatments and procedures. Healthy teeth and gums for life.
P.S. MSH (melanocyte-stimulating hormone) has not demonstrated any ability to prevent cavities, which means that it is no substitute for flossing and brushing.
EAT BETTER, AGE BETTER
While seniors generally consume fewer calories because of their slowing metabolisms, they must be sure to get sufficient calories to sustain their health. Weight loss at an advanced age for whatever reason may lead to malnutrition and/or worsening of existing health conditions. With this in mind, seniors should make sure their teeth (or dentures) and gums are in good working order. If it hurts to chew, people eat less. Healthy teeth and properly fitting dentures ensure that seniors can avail themselves of all the nutrition in healthy meals. The National Institutes of Health is funding research to determine how oral health may affect memory. It is thought that a healthy diet may be linked with less cognitive decline among seniors.
P.S. Oral health should be viewed in an overall context because it is an important component that contributes to the health of other bodily systems and organs.
THE GUM DISEASE/PRETERM BIRTH LINK
While research has already established a link between periodontal (gum) disease in pregnant women and an increased risk of giving birth to babies of low birth weight prematurely, a new study provides additional news on the link between gum disease and premature birth. According to researchers, pregnant women who undergo successful treatment are less likely to give birth early. This finding is based on a study of nearly 900 pregnant women, with and without gum disease, who were pregnant for between six and twenty weeks. This study provides a good argument for women to incorporate dentists into their prenatal healthcare team. Maintaining good oral health before and during pregnancy is in the best interests of both mother and child.
P.S. So far, research suggests that periodontal disease triggers increased levels of biological fluids that induce labor.
COSMETIC CONCERNS
It hardly comes as a surprise that cosmetic, or aesthetic, dentistry has grown to be so popular among patients. After all, straight, white teeth are as essential to appearance as nice skin and coiffed hair. The most sought-after procedure is tooth-whitening, which can be performed in-office, at home, or a combination. The most aggressive yet painless tooth-whitening techniques result in smiles several shades whiter in one office sitting. Next on the list of patient popularity are veneers used to correct cracked, chipped, discolored, and worn teeth. These ultra-thin tooth coverings made of porcelain or composite materials look like natural teeth, only they are perfect. If a less-expensive option is desired, resin bonding provides a simple, effective method of tooth supplementation.
P.S. Because porcelain and ceramic tooth replacements look like real teeth, they blend beautifully with existing teeth.
SAME-DAY TOOTH IMPLANTS
While traditional dental implants usually require up to six months for the titanium implant to successfully bond with the surrounding bone ("osseointegration"), same-day dental implants don't require a long waiting period. The ability of these "immediate-load" tooth implants to be readily available as foundations for replacement teeth is a direct outcome of their advanced design. As a result, patients can leave the dental office with an immediate-load implant on the same day they have a tooth extracted. With preplanning, it is even possible to have a permanent replacement tooth in place instead of a temporary. Same-day tooth implants cut down on office visits, spare patients the embarrassment of enduring visible gaps, and ensure excellent gum interface with the replacement tooth.
P.S. As with dental implants, immediate-impact implants are not suitable for all patients. Consultation with the dentist can help patients make the tooth-replacement decision that best suits their needs and circumstances.
FLOSSING FOR APPEARANCE'S SAKE
After brushing but not flossing, about 40% of tooth surfaces will continue to harbor sticky bacteria (plaque) that give rise to tooth decay and gum disease. If this percentage does not motivate everyone to floss daily, it should be noted that failure to floss can also make a person look older. Overgrowth of plaque creates gum inflammation that can lead to gum recession and bone loss. In fact, the term for aging "long in the tooth" derives from receding, uneven gumlines that make people look older. On top of that, when gum disease leads to bone loss, lips and cheeks cave in and wrinkles form. This puckered, hollowed-out look cannot necessarily be fixed with cosmetic surgery. Prevention is best.
P.S. Once a tooth is lost, there is no reason for the underlying bone to continue to exist.
BRIDGE BUILDING
A "bridge" is a fixed dental restoration that is commonly used to replace no more than four adjacent front teeth or two side teeth. Much like a highway bridge, it is supported by two abutments, which are structurally healthy teeth on either side of the gap. The span, or "pontic," is a metal framework attached to the abutments at each end with the necessary number of attached artificial teeth. When properly crafted, the artificial teeth and abutment crowns should match the contour and color of natural teeth and appear to be growing out of the gums. However, the pontic should barely touch the gums because exerting unnecessary pressure on the gums and underlying bone can damage them.
P.S. There should be sufficient space on the underside of the pontic of a dental bridge so that dental floss can be passed beneath it to keep it clean.
INFLAMMATORY SITUATION
Not only does the buildup of the sticky, bacteria-laden material known as "plaque" increase the incidence of decayed tooth enamel, it also promotes "gingivitis" (inflammation of the gums). When these sticky deposits of bacteria, mucus, food particles, and other irritants accumulate around the base of the teeth, they exert a toxic effect that causes the gums to become irritated, red, and swollen, and to bleed more easily. These symptoms are all signs of gum disease. Left untreated, gingivitis can develop into the more serious condition called "periodontitis," inflammation of the membranes around the base of the teeth, which can lead to erosion of the bone holding teeth in place and resultant tooth loss. To avert these potential problems, brush and floss daily.
P.S. Because plaque collects on teeth on a daily basis, it is necessary to brush and floss at least twice daily to rid teeth of this potentially harmful material.
YOU KNOW THE DRILL! OR DO YOU?
Many patients think that drilling away decay and filling cavities in teeth is an all-or-nothing matter. Those patients who hold this view may be surprised to learn that they have it in their power to reverse some instances of dental decay and avoid the drill entirely. The key point to remember is that regular dental checkups enable the dentist to identify tooth decay in its earliest stages. At this point, when the acid produced by bacteria-laden plaque has only partially penetrated the outer enamel surface, the damage can be reversed with better adherence to home oral care (brushing and flossing) and applications of fluoride that encourage calcium and phosphates in the saliva to "remineralize" the tooth surface.
P.S. A drill-less procedure recently introduced to the United States from Germany, called Icon, treats "intermediate" cavities with a clear resin that prevents the cavity from progressing.
2 + 2 = HEALTHY TEETH AND GUMS
By adhering to the "two plus two" rule, patients can help better their oral health. Most dentists recommend that at least "two" minutes of tooth-brushing is required to thoroughly clean teeth. Although many people think they are following the two-minute tooth-brushing regimen, actual timing of their routines may prove otherwise. If necessary, patients should use an old-fashioned egg timer to time themselves. Flossing is also a must at least once a day because it reaches between teeth where toothbrush bristles cannot go. Regarding regular visits to the dentist, "two" visits a year is acceptable for most patients, while visits every three to four months is preferable for those with bridges, crowns, or a history of gum disease.
P.S. Brushing the tongue is important because that is where the bulk of bacteria collect that cause bad breath.
BABY-BOTTLE TOOTH DECAY
Few things relax infants more than sucking milk or fruit juice from a bottle. When babies are allowed to suck on a bottle at bedtime until they go to sleep, however, this habit can prove to be potentially harmful. Bathing teeth in a sugary liquid in this manner promotes tooth decay. According to various studies, as many as 11% of pre-school children have cavities caused by sucking on a bottle. If a bottle-fed child's mouth is not properly cleansed after sucking on a bottle by lightly swabbing his or her teeth and gums with a water-dampened cloth, plaque will accumulate to cause cavities. If your child must have a bottle at bedtime, provide one filled with water.
P.S. Mothers who breast-feed their children must also clean their babies' mouths with a damp cloth.
TAKING IT ON THE JAW
A serious potential consequence of periodontitis (advanced inflammation or infection of the gums) is tooth loss due to jaw-bone shrinkage and damage. The latest effort to counter this threat comes in the form of a drug called teriparatide, which has recently been proven to regrow bone in jaws. According to one study, patients with tissue damage caused by periodontitis developed nearly ten times more bone with teriparatide treatment than those receiving daily placebo injections. The significant gains in bone produced by the drug developed over a relatively short six-week period. These improvements were sustained, and even improved upon, over a succeeding 12-month period. This jaw-regrowing ability may also prove useful for potential tooth implant patients, who need more foundation bone.
P.S. Periodontitis is a major cause of tooth loss that affects more than one in five U.S. adults.
GETTING THE FULL TREATMENT
Fluoride treatments during regular professional cleanings make sense for adults because they still get cavities. This is especially true at the root surfaces and under crowns, which become exposed as adult gums recede. Particularly susceptible to cavities are root surfaces because they lose mineral faster than enamel does. With this in mind, higher concentrations of fluoride provided by topical treatments may be needed for adequate protection. It should also be noted that many adults take certain medications and have medical conditions that cause dry mouth, which is a condition that increases the risk of cavities in adults. Fluoride makes teeth more resistant to acids produced by bacteria and helps remineralize tooth surfaces that are under attack.
P.S. Getting too much fluoride can be as harmful as getting too little. The dentist assesses the need for fluoride on an individual basis.
THE DENTAL FACELIFT
The "dental facelift" is a non-surgical approach to improving the contours and dimensions of the face, with the comprehensive and coordinated application of veneers on tooth surfaces. As a result of this cosmetic procedure, patients not only emerge with more youthful, whiter smiles, they have added volume to their faces that helps fill in sunken cheeks and shrunken lips and jaws. To understand how this can be accomplished, it is important to look at the teeth as playing a major role in the framework of the face. As we age, teeth wear down and the jaw recedes, which leads to decreasing facial height and a ¬slackened appearance. By building up tooth surfaces with veneers, the face can be subtly reshaped.
P.S. A dental facelift restores the cusp tips of the teeth to rebuild the bite, which increases facial height and improves chewing ability.
DIABETICS AND GUM DISEASE
Diabetics should be conscientious about visiting the dentist as often as recommended. According to a recent review of data from seven studies, patients with both diabetes and gum disease who were treated for their periodontal conditions over a four-month period displayed better glucose control than diabetic patients whose gum disease was left untreated. Periodontal disease, a bacterial infection of the gums that induces redness and inflammation, can be effectively treated with antibiotics and plaque removal by the hygienist. Plaque is the bacteria-laden, sticky substance that collects on tooth surfaces. This buildup may cause chemical changes that weaken diabetics' ability to metabolize glucose. Thus, diabetic patients should be scrupulous about brushing and flossing at home and scheduling regular professional tooth cleanings.
P.S. Because plaque reforms on the gums on a continual daily basis, brushing and flossing daily is essential to staving off tooth decay and gum disease.
HEROES AND VILLAINS
One villain responsible for tooth decay is the bacterium streptococcus mutans, which breaks down sugar and produces the sticky molecules (glucans) that are responsible for allowing bacteria to cling to our teeth. This villainous bacterium also produces an enamel-eroding acid responsible for cavities. The heroes that counter these effects are called "polyphenols," which are found in the fermented stems, seeds, and grape skins left over from wine production. These compounds, which are also found in cranberries, block streptococcus mutans' ability to produce glucans. As helpful as polyphenols are, however, no one is suggesting that we drink wine or sugary cranberry drinks to prevent tooth decay. Instead, scientists hope to isolate these compounds and put them in toothpaste and mouthwashes.
P.S. The beneficial compounds found in wine leftovers and cranberries mentioned above are called "A-type proanthocyanidins."
FAT CHANCE!
Not only does gum disease afflict a large portion of the adult population and pose the threat of tooth loss, this inflammatory condition has also been linked with an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious conditions. With this in mind, patients should be scrupulous about oral care at home and scheduling regular dental appointments. It may also pay to increase consumption of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish. New research indicates that omega-3s significantly decrease the risk of gum disease. People consuming the most DHA (one of the principal omega-3 fatty acids found in fish) were 22 percent less likely to suffer periodontitis; EPA (the other important fish-oil omega-3) also lowered the risk, but not as much.
P.S. Four of every five Americans suffer from some form of gum disease, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, which is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
MISSING LINK UNCOVERED
Proline is one of a number of amino acids that serve both as "building blocks" of proteins and as intermediates in metabolism. What has recently come to the attention of dentists is the fact that, in addition to amino acids' role as the building blocks of muscles, tendons, organs, glands, nails, and hair, proline has been identified as the amino acid responsible for making teeth strong and resilient. Researchers have found proline to be repeated at the center of proteins found in tooth enamel, which is the hardest substance found in the human body. This new finding may lay a foundation for future research that helps dentists replace damaged parts of the outer-tooth layer with healthy layers of new enamel.
P.S. Other animals, such as frogs, do not have proline repeats as long as those found in humans' teeth, which causes frogs' teeth to be softer than those of humans.
PLAQUE DETECTION
Although your teeth may seem clean, they still may be encrusted with germ-laden plaque, especially between teeth and at the gum line. To detect just how effective tooth brushing and flossing are in removing the sticky substance that causes both tooth decay and gum disease, patients can undergo a plaque detection test either at home or in the dental office. The home version of the test utilizes special tablets that contain red dye. Once the tablet is chewed and mixed with saliva, the dye is swished around in the mouth for about 30 seconds. After a water rinse, the teeth are examined. Any pink residue on the teeth indicates remaining plaque, which poses a threat to teeth and gums.
P.S. The dentist or hygienist can perform a plaque detection test in the office using special fluorescent solution and an ultraviolet plaque light.
PLACE-SETTING TEETH
"Baby" (or deciduous) teeth may begin to fall out and be replaced by permanent teeth starting at approximately six years of age, but that does not mean that they are expendable. Baby teeth play an important role in aligning the spacing of subsequent permanent teeth. They also serve to support the upper and lower jaws in proper alignment. Thus, parents will want to join the dentist in doing everything possible to preserve the health of their children's baby teeth. If these place-setters are lost prematurely to injury or decay, it may adversely affect the positioning of the teeth that will replace them. For this reason and others, children should adopt healthy oral care habits at an early age.
P.S. As emerging permanent teeth push against the roots of overlying deciduous teeth, the roots of the baby teeth dissolve and become absorbed by the forming permanent teeth.
ROOT CAUSE OF PAIN
When a deep cavity or crack causes infection that damages a tooth's pulp (which contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue), severe pain results. If left untreated, the damage can spread to the surrounding bone, causing further problems. For this reason alone, patients with an infection in the pulp of a tooth need to undergo endodontic treatment that involves drilling to the core of the tooth; removing the damaged pulp; and then cleaning, shaping, filling, and sealing the tooth. A "root canal" procedure derives its name from the fact that the pulp branches down each root through canals that stop just short of the bottom tip of the tooth. Endodontic treatment preserves teeth and circumvents the need to extract them.
P.S. Root canal treatment removes the source of pain caused by an infected pulp; because the procedure is performed with local anesthetic, it does not cause pain.
CHOOSING SUITABLE REPLACEMENTS
While fluoridated drinking water has helped ensure that people under age 50 have an excellent chance of keeping all their teeth, older individuals may not be so fortunate. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that one-quarter of American adults over the age of 65 have lost all their teeth; the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research indicates that 58% of Americans over age 50 have fewer than 21 of the normal 32 teeth. Missing teeth lead to poor nutrition as well as a possible collapse of the vertical dimension of the lower face. To avert these potential problems, dental implants provide the best functioning, and most natural-looking, replacements.
P.S. Dental implants are rooted inside the jawbone, which prevents the bone resorption that causes the bone underlying lost teeth to shrink.
TEETHING REMEDY WARNING
The FDA recently issued a safety announcement that warns parents against using benzocaine teething products in children under the age of two years. The use of these products (including Orajel, Baby Orajel, Orabase, and Anbesol) can lead to a serious condition known as "methemoglobinemia," which involves the inability of the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells to transport oxygen to the body's cells and tissues. Fortunately, there are a number of alternative treatments to benzocaine teething gels, including chilled rubber rings that babies can chew on to soothe their teething discomfort. Solid frozen rings, on the other hand, should be avoided since they can cause injury to baby's tender gums. Parents can also massage their baby's gums with clean fingertips.
P.S. A good teething remedy is a wet washcloth that is twisted into a rope and set in the freezer for a few minutes. Teething babies can chew on the washcloth until it returns to room temperature.
