Laughing off your Dental Fear

Posted on February 24, 2012 by

We know our patients look forward to visiting our merry and charming team, but that doesn’t mean we expect them to excitedly anticipate the dental chair. Dental fear was recently ranked second-greatest in a survey conducted by the British Dental Health Foundation. It beat out snakes, spiders, needles and flying.

Clearly, if you feel anxiety before stepping through our office doors, you are not alone. Last year the Adult Dental Health Survey revealed that about 50 percent of folks, especially women, experience moderate to extreme dental anxiety, with 5 percent severely affected.

So how do you banish this fear of drills and pokes? We can certainly help you out by either prescribing medicine for you to take before your appointment that will relax your nerves or providing in-house sedation with nitrous oxide, which will make your visit a laughing matter.

If you’d rather use your own resources to combat the stress of your appointment, new Swedish research released this week suggests that comedy, optimism and prayer are among the best options.

“Psychological barriers can be broken down by humor, both as a result of the patient and the dentist coming together more as equals, and as a result of humor reducing stress, increasing well-being and creating a pleasant atmosphere,” says Jenny Bernson, a researcher at the University of Gothenburg.

Lucky for our patients, our staff includes Barbie and Patti, some of the most talented, non-invasive smilemakers you’re likely to meet! And Drs. Allen and Hamilton are both gentle, approachable West Texans who will focus on your comfort throughout the entire procedure, and might even throw in a wisecrack or two for good measure.

Staying optimistic by looking forward to eventual outcomes or simply the rest of your day might also quell your unease.

“The study has shown that patients who adopt an optimistic mindset cope with dental treatment significantly better and they visit the dentist more regularly than patients who spend their time in despair or catastrophizing,” Bernson says.

Our team is dedicated to focusing on the positive. Whether discussing your goals for treatment or how you plan to finance the visit, we’re here to cheer you on while we help you achieve the very best results. For you, staying positive while in the chair might mean thinking about how strong and long-lasting your teeth will be, how your current pain will be eradicated, what a gorgeous smile you’re going to have, or the ease with which you’ll go eat that chicken fried steak for lunch!

Distracting yourself with counting, playing games in your mind or listening to our in-office radio iPod might also help you manage the stress by allowing you to distance yourself mentally. Praying continually throughout your visit could calm and comfort you as well. If you’re feeling severely apprehensive and would like a member of our team to pray with you, please ask!

To discuss more ways to manage dental anxiety, please call our office at (817) 274-7764 to reserve an appointment.

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Flowers, Candy, and Halitosis

Posted on February 13, 2012 by

Tomorrow is Valentine’s Day, which means you’re likely preparing for some cuddling, snuggling and romance. But don’t let putrid breath kill your blissful smooches! Halitosis, the technical term for bad breath, is preventable and treatable – even in a time crunch.

Many blame foul mouth odor on smelly food or poor dental hygiene. Yes, pungent scents from food like coffee, garlic, onions and fish are absorbed into your bloodstream and linger until the food is fully digested. But even mouths with the cleanest of teeth can reek like rotting eggs. The problem is the more than 600 types of bacteria on the tongue, the worst of which is anaerobic, sulfur-producing bacteria. This type grows rapidly when the mouth is dry.

Dry mouth, therefore, is the main cause of bad breath. The best way to prevent it is pretty simple – drink some water! Not only will it rinse your mouth of any lingering, smelly food particles, it also encourages saliva to flow in your mouth, which helps fight bacteria. You’ll also want to avoid smoking and alcohol to promote a better moisturized mouth.

The proteins in mucus also fuel bacteria growth, so you might notice increased foulness of breath when you’re congested or experiencing post-nasal drip. Dairy and sugar can also interact with sulfur-producing bacteria to exacerbate bad breath. Because V-day is second only to Halloween in candy consumption, you might think twice before gobbling up handfuls of Sweethearts and assorted chocolates. Gum and mints are also just short-term masks for halitosis and should be traded for spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, which are antioxidant-rich and have antibacterial properties.

Taking a good hard look at the surface of your tongue will do a fine job of indicating whether or not you have fresh breath. Is it pink and shiny? Chances are good. White and scaly? Not so likely. Another solid way to check for halitosis is to lick the back of your hand, wait a few seconds for the saliva to dry, then smell the surface.

If either of these methods lead you to believe your breath is a problem, it might be time to invest in a good tongue scraper. You can pick up a plastic scraper at our practice for $4, a metal, dishwasher-safe model for $10, or receive a free toothbrush equipped with one, the Colgate 360, as part of your regular dental cleaning.  

For more information about how to achieve your freshest possible breath, please contact our office at (817) 274-7764 to reserve an appointment with Dr. Allen or Dr. Hamilton.

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Dental Themes for Mobile Screens

Posted on February 6, 2012 by

Did you know you have access to the world of teeth through your mobile device or tablet? Whether you need immediate advice in a dental emergency, want to banish your dental fears or blast cartoon tartar off a monster’s crusty smile, you’re only a few taps away. Here are our favorite dental apps of the moment, available on iTunes:

Tooth First Aid by Rainmaker

  • Description: This app provides quick solutions to dental emergencies and everyday oral concerns. It is designed to help users diffuse their dental situations by offering immediate first aid and directing them to nearby dentists if they happen to be out of town.
  • Price: $0.99
  • Keep in mind: Very clear information and simple instructions for a plethora of dental emergencies

BrushyTime by LaserBoy

  • Description: Rated the #1 Healthcare & Fitness App August 2010, BrushyTime is a customizable toothbrushing timer. The app’s Classic Theme features a digital clock counting down the seconds, and its Pirate Theme passes the time with a moving ship and squawking parrot to let you know when it’s time to switch arches.
  • Price: $0.99
  • Keep in mind: Great to motivate kids to brush, no advertisements, timing can be customized

iBracesHelp by The Dental Specialists

  • Description: iBraces Help is an excellent resource for braces wearers and parents of children undergoing orthodontic treatment. It includes helpful descriptions, photos and videos on caring for your braces and dealing with discomfort or other problems.
  • Price: Free
  • Keep in mind: Lots of practical information, some users had trouble navigating back to the main page

Monster Mouth DDS by Breaktime Studios

  • Description: As dentists for monsters, users perform procedures as quickly and painlessly as possible before the massive monster mouth slams shut. Each monster patient presents with a unique dental affliction, prompting users to remove plaque by rubbing the teeth, check for cracks with x-rays and remove mischievous cavity monsters with animated tongs.
  • Price: Free
  • Keep in mind: A fun game for kids with optional competition mode, obviously inaccurate treatment such as bombing cracked teeth and chasing down mobile cavities

Dental Phobia by Dr. Jeff Sherer

  • Description: Use the power of knowledge to quell your dental anxiety! This application aims to ease users’ fears by explaining the nature of dental phobias, coping mechanisms and the options for sedation available at most dental practices.
  • Price: $0.99
  • Keep in mind: In-depth FAQ section plus a feature that allows users to connect directly with a dental professional and ask additional questions

For a complete list of various dental mobile applications, click here. For any questions or concerns you might have, please contact our office at (817) 274-7764 to reserve an appointment with Dr. Allen or Dr. Hamilton.

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Old School Candy, Modern Tooth Decay Preventative?

Posted on January 31, 2012 by

Excessive sugar consumption will rot your teeth. It’s a truth we know and swear by. However, a new study shows that the essence of one candy could actually support your oral health: licorice.

According to the Journal of Natural Products, compounds found in the dried root of licorice plants might help prevent and treat both tooth decay and gum disease. But don’t go adding a Twizzler twist to your oral health maintenance! Licorice candy sold in the U.S. is now flavored with anise oil rather than licorice root.

The two predominant compounds in licorice, licoricidin and licorisoflavan A, were found to be the most effective in inhibiting the growth of plaque and tartar that cause cavities. They were also shown to prevent the growth of bacteria associated with periodontitis, an inflammatory disease that can damage the bones, gums, and tissue surrounding teeth.

If you happen to use a toothpaste by Tom’s of Maine, a manufacturer of natural-ingredients-only personal care products and independent subsidiary of Colgate-Palmolive, you might already be experiencing the dental health benefits of licorice root. Stefan Gafner, PhD, primary author of the study, is a researcher at Tom’s of Maine, which uses licorice root as an ingredient in some of their products.

If you’re thinking about adding a licorice root supplement to your healthcare regimen, be sure to study the risks. Forms of the supplement, which contain glycyrrhizin, can raise blood pressure, lower potassium levels and cause salt and water retention when taken in large amounts. Women who are pregnant should avoid licorice supplements and limit ingestion of the root.

Tooth decay is the most prevalent chronic disease in the United States. To discuss preventative strategies such as home care and regular cleanings, please call our office at (817) 274-7764 to reserve an appointment with Dr. Hamilton or Dr. Allen.

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Community Water Fluoridation: Protecting Your Smile Everyday

Posted on January 23, 2012 by

On January 25, 1945, 67 years ago this week, Grand Rapids, MI became the world’s first city to adjust the level of fluoride in its water supply.  Since that time, community water fluoridation has drastically improved the oral health of more than 195 million Americans.   

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has named water fluoridation as one of 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century.  The most comprehensive systematic review of water fluoridation found that it is associated with a decreased proportion of children with cavities and with a decrease in decayed, missing and filled primary teeth.  Community water fluoridation prevents an estimated 40% of cavities.

Water that has been fortified with fluoride is similar to milk fortified with Vitamin D, table salt with iodine, and bread and cereals with folic acid. Approximately 72.4% of the U.S. population served by public water systems receive the benefit of optimally fluoridated water.

But with community water fluoridation’s great acclaim comes great controversy as well. Many who oppose water fluoridation consider it to be a form of compulsory mass medication. The opposition argues that all water consumers cannot give consent, nor can water suppliers accurately control the exact levels of fluoride that individuals receive, nor monitor their response.

According to the CDC, peer-reviewed scientific evidence does not support an association between water fluoridation and any adverse health effects or systemic disorders. The only recorded adverse effect is cosmetic – a change in the appearance of the tooth’s enamel called dental fluorosis. Dental fluorosis only affects teeth in development under the gums, and therefore the population at risk is limited to children younger than 8 years old.

Although other fluoride-containing products are available, water fluoridation remains the most equitable and cost-effective method of delivering fluoride to all members of most communities. To get a better understanding of Tarrant county’s water fluoridation efforts, you can access the CDC’s data by clicking here.

If you would like to discuss tooth decay prevention with Dr. Allen or Dr. Hamilton, please contact our office at (817) 274-7764 to set up a consultation.

 

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Five Reasons to Consider Dental Implants

Posted on January 16, 2012 by

Drs. Allen and Hamilton are committed to listening to our patients’ dental wants and framing treatment around their individual goals. For our patients who face the problem of missing teeth and want a long-term solution, dental implants are the absolute best method of tooth replacement. Here’s why:

1. They won’t disturb the neighbors - Traditional procedures to replace teeth require bonding to natural teeth, which prohibits flossing or causes the the need for a removable partial. Because implants stand alone like natural teeth, there is no need to bond to neighboring teeth.

2. Eat what you want - Dental implants are anchored securely in your jaw so that you can comfortably eat all your favorite foods with neither pain nor worry.

3. A perfect match - Drs. Allen and Hamilton design implants to fit perfectly in your mouth, making it next to impossible to distinguish your real teeth from your dental implant(s).

4. Keep face! - Tooth loss is typically followed by shrinkage of the jawbone, which may cause you to look older. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants stimulate bone growth just like natural teeth. They are comfortable, attractive and promote a healthy jawbone.

5. Teeth that last a lifetime - Dental implants are a permanent solution to tooth loss that never have to be removed. Their success as a tooth restorative has now been recorded for more than 40 years!

If you are interested in dental implants and would like to receive more information or set up a consultation, please contact our office at (817) 274-7764.

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Vegetarianism, Veganism, and Vibrant Teeth

Posted on January 5, 2012 by

With your new year might come new exercise routines, revamped cleaning schedules or healthier eating habits. If you’ve decided to accept a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle in 2012, Drs. Allen and Hamilton encourage you make nutritional choices that bolster your oral health.

Although their diets can vary quite a bit, many vegetarians and most vegans experience deficiencies in calcium, fat-soluble vitamins, riboflavin, and/or complete proteins. Such deficiencies can put vegans and vegetarians at an increased risk for tooth decay and periodontal disease, due to softening of the teeth, and other health problems. The following is a list of fat-soluble vitamins that will need to be supplemented if you say no to animal byproducts:

Vitamin D is necessary for your body to absorb calcium and phosphorous. It helps to prevent fractures from osteoporosis and prevent rickets and diseases that cause weak bones. Because vitamin D is produced in the body with sun exposure, deficiencies are typically rare but can develop in those who do not consume milk or fish.

Vitamin A is needed for vision, healthy skin and mucous membranes, tissue repair, bone growth and development of fetuses. It also protects the body from damaging substances.

Fat-soluble vitamin E is needed for circulation, tissue repair and healing. The powerful antioxidant also works with trace elements, particularly selenium and zinc, to intercept free radicals and clean out the waste products in your body. It also seems to help in the treatment of fibrocystic conditions, sterility, PMS and muscular dystrophy, and seems to slow down the aging process.

Vitamin K - you need it to have strong bones and it is essential for blood clotting. Signs of deficiency include bleeding gums, blood in urine, and things like that. Vitamin K2 helps to support tooth mineralization.

You also can develop mouth sores when you do not consume enough of the vitamins B12 and B2. Red meat, chicken, liver, pork, fish, as well as dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese, are good sources of vitamin B12. Vitamin B2 is found in foods like pasta, bagels, spinach, and almonds.

Many of the aforementioned vitamins can be supplemented by eating avocado, edamame, cold pressed olive oil, coconut oil, and nuts. Lesser amounts are found in grains, seeds, legumes and dark green leafy vegetables. Adding vegetable margarines, ghee (clarified butter), and/or soy or almond milk to the diet might also help solve the problem of vitamin deficiencies, and taking a multi-vitamin daily is certainly advised.

Drs. Allen and Hamilton recommend that anyone considering adopting a vegetarian or vegan diet seek counseling from a nutritionist to learn about substituting foods to get all the necessary nutrients. For more information about how to strengthen or maintain healthy teeth, contact our office at 817-274-7764.

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