Dentist offering Humanitarian Aid killed in Afghanistan posted on 8/27/2010

Dentists and cosmetic dentists dedicate their lives to helping their patients maintain good oral health, a bright smile and reduced risk of stress and heart disease that can result from unhealthy teeth and gums.  Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra Cosmetic Dentists can also use several methods to repair years of damage to your teeth.

Dentists across the country, however, are mourning the loss of a colleague who sacrificed far more to try to bring basic health measures to those less fortunate in a war-torn country.

51 year old Dr. Thomas Grams of Durango, Colorado, gave up his successful dental practice nearly four years ago to devote his time to help poor children in Nepal and Afghanistan get basic dental treatment.  He was killed earlier this month, along with a team of medical volunteers, by the Taliban, for allegedly violating religious law.

Along with members of the volunteer medical group, Grams brought thousands of toothbrushes and eyeglasses to poverty-stricken villagers of Northern Afghanistan who had never even seen a toothbrush.  He relished in watching the joy on kids faces after they brushed their teeth for the first time.

Global Dental Relief is a group from Denver which sends dentists around the world for such missions.  Grams was killed along with five other Americans, an Englishman and a German, in a remote area about 160 miles north of Kabul, by the Taliban, who alleged that they were on a mission to convert Muslims to Christianity.

According to representatives of Global Dental Relief and Grams' family, no one in the group discussed religion with any villagers on the mission.  The group was there solely to provide health aid.

Scientists studying new gel that could help Dentists regrow decayed teeth posted on 8/21/2010

A persons smile is an important part of their appearance since it is the first thing most people see when they look at you.  This is why people so often feel self conscious about their teeth and seek out professional help to fix natures imperfections. 

Cosmetic dentists use a variety of methods to help their patients repair years of tooth damage and give them a renewed smile in the process. This usually includes veneers, gum recontouring, and implants.  Soon, however, dentists could be given a new weapon to help their patients repair decayed teeth if some promising research results hold true.

Researchers in France are studying a gel that could help decayed teeth grow back.  According to scientists, the newly discovered gel works by prompting cells to multiply.  In teeth this causes healthy tissue to replace tissue damaged by decay.

The gel is based on MSH, or melanocyte-stimulating hormone.  This hormone has previously been known to determine the amount of pigment in our skin, however, scientists are discovering that it carries far greater benefits, such as possible bone regeneration.  In recent laboratory studies damaged teeth were returned to their original, healthy state after only four weeks of treatment.

Although initial testing results are remarkable, dentists caution that further research will be needed.  Also, even if MSH is shown to regrow decayed teeth, its effectiveness will most likely be restricted to treating small areas of dental decay.  Extensive damage or tooth loss will still require implants or serious dental work.

All the more reason to practice proper dental health. 

See your Dentist often to reduce risk of Alzheimer's? posted on 8/13/2010

While the results of a recent study will require more testing to gain widespread acceptance, they do offer evidence that gives yet another reason to maintain proper oral health and see your dentist or cosmetic dentist for regular check ups.  Researchers now believe gum disease may have a relation to reduced brain functioning.

Add mental ability to the laundry list of health concerns that can now be tied to gum disease and overall oral health.  For years dentists and doctors have spoken of the relation of gum disease to heart risks, stress and poor overall health.  It isnt entirely surprising, therefore, that healthy gums may also promote better mental functioning.

Researchers found a suggestion that gum disease may be linked to the risk of reduced mental functioning, such as with Alzheimer's disease, neuro-degeneration and brain inflammation.

The study, which was conducted at the New York University College of Dentistry, examined findings collected from 152 subjects who were measured for cognitive function as well as whether they suffered from gum disease.  The test group consisted of subjects who were either 50 or 70 years old and the mental functioning was measured using sections from a standard adult IQ test.

Surprisingly, those people who suffered from some level of gum disease were much more likely to test at a lower level than those with little or no gum inflammation. In fact, the 70 year old subjects were nine times more likely to test lower if they also had gum inflammation.  The same results held true for the 50 year old group, although with slightly less definitive results.

Although a follow up study is in the works to confirm the findings and better separate different degrees of affliction, these preliminary results were recently presented at the annual meeting of the International Association

Stay tuned for further updates.

Five Ways Your Dentist Recommends You Keep Your Smile Healthy posted on 8/7/2010

Regular consultations with your Jacksonville, Orlando or Boca Raton Cosmetic Dentist can give you that Hollywood-looking smile or erase years of dental problems.  However, it is also important to maintain good dental health for the benefit of those parts of your mouth and body that you cant see. Cosmetic Dentists have five tips to get you there.

First, focus more on neutralizing the pH levels in your mouth than on cutting sugar intake. Surprisingly, eating too much sugar is not what causes cavities.  Rather, they are caused by a bacterial infection called dental caries that come from having too high of an acidity rate in your mouth.  While brushing and flossing help, they arent enough.  You can now monitor the pH levels in your mouth with several products or by visiting your dentist.

Second, eat foods that fight the bacteria that cause dental caries. Foods such as onions, wasabi, celery, cheese and shitake mushrooms all help fight bacteria that are harmful to your teeth.  Pair these with a program to monitor your pH levels and youll do a lot to save your smile.

Next, start drinking.  Water, that is. Taking in a sufficient amount of water helps your gums stay hydrated and also lets your mouth produce saliva, which is used to fight bacteria.  You can also drink Green Tea, which has been called a superdrink because of its many health benefits. Among them is the fact that Green Tea contains catechins, which aid in fighting bacteria.

After you get your food and water intake under control, mix in xylitol to your daily diet. Xylitol is a 5-carbon sugar contained in many fruits, chewing gums, toothpastes and mouthwashes that is not broken down by bacteria into harmful acid. It also protects tooth enamel, keeps bacteria from sticking to your teeth, and fights the amount of acid-producing bacteria in the mouth. Try to take in 6-11 grams per day.

Finally, see your dentist or cosmetic dentist more regularly.  You should see these specialists at least twice a year to maintain good dental health.  In addition to the significant benefits of undergoing a professional cleaning by a dental hygienist twice a year, regular visits will help your dentist detect problems early while they can still be managed easily.  Letting any condition fester for a year between visits can lead to more serious treatment later.

Researchers studying the link between Gum Disease and Diabetes posted on 8/3/2010

While your local Jacksonville, Orlando or South Florida Cosmetic Dentist can perform painless procedures to correct years of unsightly damage to your teeth and smile, it is important for adults to also see a periodontist in order to ensure overall health.  The studies linking gum disease to heart disease, stress and other serious problems are numerous, but a new study is seeking to prove the link between gum disease and diabetes as well.

Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Dental School are currently recruiting volunteers for a clinical study to determine whether treatment for serious periodontitis, or gum disease, helps people reduce the risks of Type 2 diabetes.

According to experts, past research shows a definite link between chronic gum disease and type-two diabetes.  They also believe there is evidence that suggests controlling gum disease and infections helps control glycemic levels and in turn diabetes.  While results in prior studies have been promising, those tests were too small to be conclusive.

The current study will be the first of its kind large enough to produce definitive results, with approximately 600 patients and three separate testing facilities in Alabama, New York and Minnesota.

Study Shows Children not getting enough Dental Care posted on 7/12/2010

If you live in Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra, Orlando or Boca Raton, hopefully your children have access to a cosmetic dentist or periodontist to address their dental health.  However, a recent study in California shows children in that state do not have the same access to dentists as those in Florida.

The current condition of dental health for children in California is so bad that 25% of kids have never seen a dentist.

The study was conducted by the University of California at Los Angeles and the California HealthCare Foundation. The results were released last week in the July Journal of Health Affairs. Researchers looked at the level of dental care for children aged 11 and under.

Not surprisingly, the study showed that low income children, especially Latinos and African American kids, suffer the biggest gap in dental care.  This was true even if they had access to private or public insurance that covered regular visits. In families with health coverage, the study found that minority children still had longer periods between visits.

Based on these results, all families are urged to maintain proper dental health for their children, especially if health coverage is available.  Skipping dental visits now will have long lasting effects on children as they grow up, without giving them the choice.

New Handheld Devices Help your Dentist Screen for Oral Cancer posted on 6/30/2010

As if we needed another reason to see our dentist and cosmetic dentist for regular checkups and cleanings, they now will have technology to screen for oral cancers.  Studies have long maintained that a persons oral health is indicative of the whole body general health and can be an early warning sign.

Experts estimate that approximately 36,000 people will be diagnosed with a form or oral cancer this year.  The classification includes cancers of the lips, tongue, mouth and throat.  Numbers have been rising in the past four years and are expected to continue with that trend.

While screenings were traditionally performed by your dentist with the naked eye, this type of exam often doesnt catch symptoms until the cancer has progressed to the stage where serious surgery or treatment is necessary, which can cause deformities in the face.

Cancer screening lights such as the Identafi 3000 utilize white, violet and green lights to help your dentist with the exam. White light allow for greater inspection by eye.  If violet light is not reflected by your mouth it can be a sign of cancerous cells as they do not reflect light.  Green lights pick up tissue with increased blood flow, which often occurs around cancer cells.

People above the age of 35 are urged to add a regular dental screening with a cancer check to their yearly treatment.

Study shows most pacemakers and defibrillators not affected by dental tools posted on 6/23/2010

It is believed that many older Americans that have had pacemakers or defibrillators implanted dont seek out necessary dental care from their cosmetic dentist or periodontist out of fears that dental tools or equipment could affect their heart monitors.  However, a new study is showing that these concerns are largely unfounded.

Researchers at the University of Kentucky recently conducted a study to measure whether several different pieces of dental equipment caused electromagnetic interference. For the study they tested 9 different devices.

One concern experts have is that the testing was done only on the heart monitors directly rather than on patients with implants. 
However, out of the nine pieces of equipment tested, only two affected heart-pacing activity.  These were the ultrasonic scaler and the battery-operated composite (bonding) curing light.

Without further testing, patients are encouraged to check with their cardiologist and dentist before seeking major dental treatment. However, minor cosmetic dentist treatment and checkups should not present any problems.

Support Your Independent Dentist or Settle for Corporate Treatment posted on 6/17/2010

Are we seeing the demise of the independent dental office? If you listen to experts and statisticians, we may be.  With rising costs and constant pressure from insurance companies, more dentists and cosmetic dentists than ever are choosing to work for a corporate management firm rather than strike out on their own.

This could mean less choice and personal service for customers.  Thats why it is more important than ever to support an independent office rather than a corporate franchise. 

Dental management companies have gained popularity with professionals due to rising costs of operation and constant downward pressure on payment amounts by insurance companies. They typically purchase an existing small-sized practice from a dentist, then pay them a salary to continue to treat patients.

The company then manages office support, billing, collections, marketing and capital equipment purchasing for the dentist. Large management companies are also able to negotiate deals with insurance companies that bring more patients in the door with more favorable rates.

Some estimate around 80 percent of dentists still operate independent offices, but that in five years that number could drop to 65 percent with rising costs and pressure.

In many ways, the dental model appears to be following the path of medicine over the past 25 years, freestanding hospitals and sole practitioner doctors have joined larger health care organizations to gain economies of scale, greater leverage in negotiations with managed-care and decreased costs by purchasing supplies and equipment in volume.

Also, recently graduated dentists with an average dental school debt of $250,000 have found it much more difficult to open their own practices.  While ten years ago they could get a loan from any bank to start on their own that is no longer the case.

The biggest victim in this trend is the patient. In order to meet profit demands, dental chains often schedule their dentists and hygienists to see many more patients per day than before. 

Where independent hygienists typically would spend an hour per patient to clean teeth, do patient education and talk about (tooth decay) control, hygienists at the corporate dental clinics may see 16 patients per day, or one every half hour.

The largest of the corporate chains is Great Expressions, with more than 90 offices in Georgia and Florida.

See Your Cosmetic Dentist for a Growing Number of Teeth Whitening Options posted on 6/10/2010

Make no mistake about it people like to look good.  And a bright smile is one of the easiest ways to achieve that goal.  People often choose to whiten their teeth for special occasions such as weddings, graduations or other events where they know theyll be photographed. Now, their cosmetic dentist has more options to whiten their smile than ever before.

Based on figures compiled by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, in 2007, people in the United States spent approximately $2.75 billion on cosmetic dentistry.  About $140 million of this was for professional whitening procedures performed by dentists. Consumers spent even more on over-the-counter whitening products.

People have many choices when selecting a whitening treatment depending on how fast they need results, how effective the treatment will be, what dental work they've had in the past, and how much money they are willing to spend.

Very few insurance plans cover whitening costs, so the treatment is usually out of pocket. Most whitening methods can range from as little as $20 to thousands of dollars.

One common theme is that the least expensive methods like over-the-counter tooth pastes and whitening strips, require greater effort from the consumer and take more time to work.  Dentists liken these methods to a diet they only work over time if the consumer diligently sticks to daily use.

These over-the-counter products usually take at least two to four weeks to yield noticeable results.  This is because their active ingredients are weaker than those available to professional dentists.

People will often have to visit their dentist for a more immediate, dramatic improvement in their smile. The most-common in-patient methods involve bleaching the teeth beneath the surface. These methods typically require one or two office visits and cost between $250 and $700 or more.

An in-office bleaching, such as Zoom, BriteSmile or Sapphire, can whiten teeth by several shades and last a couple of years or longer. With custom tray bleaching, dentists prepare a custom-fitted tray for the patient's mouth and syringes of a peroxide gel.  The patient then uses the trays for several minutes twice daily for a few weeks.  This yields results close to an in-office bleaching, and is usually less expensive.

How long any whitening results will last depend on several things like diet and the condition and health of the patients teeth before whitening. Dentists usually say the in-office bleaching methods last for at least two years.

The Internet is also filled with claims about home remedies that whiten teeth using cheap, easily available ingredients such as bicarbonate of soda. You wont likely find a dentist endorsing these unproven methods.

No matter what method they choose, dentists caution that patients should follow proper oral hygine practices such as brushing and flossing before they consider any cosmetic or whitening procedure.

Studies Show Periodontists may help with research on Alzheimer's posted on 5/28/2010

A current study at the University of Florida is researching the link between a bacteria that causes gum disease and treatment theories for Alzheimers Disease.  Some day, the preventative treatment you undergo with your Periodontist or Cosmetic Dentist could prevent diseases such as this from developing later in life.

Scientists at the university are researching a defective, mutant strain of the bacteria which is responsible for gum diseases, to see how the cells dispose and recycle of unwanted material.  They believe this could give some insight into how to fight Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and many other diseases.

Autophagy is an important part of how cells survive and defend against invading organisms. Diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's are characterized with a build up of polypeptides within neurons. Scientists believe if they can clue into how Gingivitis cells turn on autophagy to break down plaque build-ups it could significantly increase a patient's chances of recovery.

"Although we do not yet completely understand how these diseases develop, we do know that the proteins clump together and form a plaque buildup in affected patients' neurons," researcher Ann Progulske-Fox, of the University of Florida College of Dentistry in Gainesville, was quoted as saying. "If we can direct the cell's own ability to break down waste products against the plaques, we could keep them from forming and potentially intercept the development of these and other diseases."

"Understanding how P. gingivalis turns on autophagy in host cells could lead to novel therapeutics for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders as well as advancements in the general understanding of the autophagic pathway," Progulske-Fox said. "Study of the mutant will facilitate this understanding and the development of new potential strategies for the treatment of multiple diseases."

New Study shows dental treatment can benefit diabetics posted on 5/20/2010

According to the results of a new study, if you are one of the millions of diabetics in the United States, your cosmetic dentist or periodontist might be able to help you with more than teeth whitening, fixing your smile or treating your gums. 

Based on the study, diabetics who see a professional to manage or treat their advanced gum disease will also benefit from reduced blood sugar levels.

Researchers from the University of Edinburgh examined the correlation between periodontal diseases and diabetes.  They discovered that diabetics who control inflammation in their gums can reduce the chances of developing other significant complications linked to the disease, including vision problems and heart disease.

The researchers caution that additional studies are needed to fully understand the link between the conditions. Also, dental care is certainly no substitute for formal diabetic treatments such as insulin.

However, this appears to be yet another benefits of good oral hygiene.  Other studies have shown relations between periodontal disease, stress and heart conditions even in non-diabetic patients.

Unlicensed Dental Treatment Becoming More Prevalent in Some States posted on 5/13/2010

Investigators in Florida, Texas and California are noticing a shocking trend – an increasing number of people practicing dentistry without a license. The practice doesn’t appear to have reached into cosmetic dentistry yet, however abuses in general dentistry are becoming more prevalent and are putting people’s health at risk.

The activity is illegal in all three states, however unlicensed providers and their “patients” seem to be skirting the laws in underground settings.  People often meet in homes, apartments or secret back rooms of businesses.  Investigators report that the “offices” utilize real dental chairs, drills, supplies and painkillers.

For the most part, these unlicensed providers are targeting low income families who do not have insurance.  Often they are illegal immigrants.  The procedures, however, seem to have no boundary – reports of root canals and cavity filling are common. The unlicensed dentists even use anesthesia or heavy drug sedatives on the patients.

These unlicensed providers are often lab technicians or dental hygienists who are working beyond their qualifications.  Other times they are dentists who are licensed in other countries but have not been approved to practice in the U.S.

According to dentists, the risks of improper care can include infection, sickness, worsening of dental problems or even death.

Law enforcement officials also warn that the cash-only operations attract crime.

Japanese study shows green tea may help you save your teeth posted on 5/6/2010

Cosmetic dentists from Jacksonville to Orlando to Miami are looking into the results of a new study which suggests some of their patients may make their job easier with their drinking habits.

A Japanese study released recently indicates there may be a connection between drinking green tea and keeping your teeth.

Researchers at the Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine studied over 25,000 Japanese men and women who were between the ages of 40 and 64. Their findings were that males who consumed at least one cup of tea a day were 19 percent more likely to have retained more than 20 teeth than those who did not drink green tea.

Women who were daily tea drinkers had 13 percent better odds than their non-drinking counterparts. A full set of teeth including wisdom teeth, is 32 teeth.

Green tea contains antimicrobial molecules known as catechins that researchers believe may improve oral health.

American dentists caution, however, that while drinking green tea, or even coffee, may be shown to help your teeth, drinking either with sugar would have the opposite effect and actually lead to cavities.

Experts advise flossing may lower risk of heart disease posted on 4/30/2010

Dentists have always stressed proper oral hygiene in order to keep your mouth healthy and prolong your dental life.  Experts from Jacksonville to Orlando to Palm Beach are now joining in to promote proper oral hygiene, including flossing, as a way to prevent heart disease.

81 million people in the U.S. suffer from a form of heart disease.  While much of these cases are caused by smoking, poor diet and lack of exercise, gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontal disease may heighten the risk as well.

Gum diseases are due to bacterial infection and they lead to chronic inflammation. A shocking 75% of American adults suffer from some form.  This inflammation, in turn, has been shown to raise the likelihood of heart disease. Dentists and doctors now maintain that the health of your mouth can be an indicator to the rest of your body’s health as well.

The American Dental Association recommends brushing at least two times per day, flossing, eating a balanced diet and having regular professional cleanings.  With better oral health we could have a healthier country overall.

New chewing gum could help your Dentist protect your teeth posted on 4/30/2010

People have always trusted their dentist to help maintain the health of their teeth or a cosmetic dentist to fix years of dental problems.  A study released recently, however, shows that a new type of chewing gum that is hitting the market may help your dentists keep your mouth even healthier.

A recently released Scandinavian study found that probiotic chewing gums can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease by attacking the harmful bacteria that causes problems in your mouth.  The probiotics do so with Lactobacillus which attaches to the bacteria Streptococcus mutans, the main bacteria to cause cavities.  This in turn keeps the bad bacteria from sticking to your teeth.

The study involved 42 people and found that chewing gum with probiotics increased the local immune response in the mouth as well which can lower the risk of gum disease.  This is important since gum disease has been shown to lead to health problems in other parts of the body.

Several chewing gums on the market today already contain the sugar alcohol xylitol, which can also help lower tooth decay and improve oral health. 

Newer options should contain probiotics as well to give even more defense.

Don’t Trust Just Anyone for Your Teeth Whitening, Experts Warn posted on 4/21/2010

Teeth whitening treatments are just one of many services offered by cosmetic dentists.  However, as the practice has become more popular, more and more vendors have come to the table offering treatment alternatives.  Spas and tanning salons even offer whitening treatments now as add-on cosmetic services.  But are consumers giving up the safety of their teeth but trusting them to someone other than a licensed dentist?

Teeth whitening has become a multi-billion dollar industry over the past decade.  From over-the-counter strips, to whitening trays, to laser treatments, everyone it seems is now offering whitening techniques.  But it is important to keep a few things in mind. 

First, the right whitening option is best determined by the severity of your tooth discoloration.  You must also match existing crowns and fillings. Only your dentist is professionally trained to address this.

Also, you should have a complete dental exam before subjecting your mouth to high strength teeth whitening techniques.  Spa or salon employees are not trained to identify infections or other oral issues that should be addressed before commencing treatment.

The American Dental Association has in fact issued a warning, stating, "Patients considering OTC products should have a dental examination, and should be reminded that they may unknowingly purchase products that may have little or no beneficial effect on the color of their teeth and may also have the potential to cause harm."

Florida is one of seven states that has recently taken legal action to limit the risks of tooth bleaching in non-dental settings. Currently, Texas has not enacted any regulations.

Dentists caution those going South of border for care posted on 4/12/2010

While your local cosmetic dentist or general dentist here in Jacksonville, Orlando, Boca Raton or Palm Beach Florida is highly trained to keep your mouth in beautiful, healthy shape, some people are heading South of the border for cheaper care.  Dentists have a few words of caution for those patients: you may get what you pay for.

Although most Americans still prefer the security of treating with a dentist in their home town, more people are heading south of the border.  Medical tourism, or traveling somewhere for cheaper procedures thought to be too expensive at home, has exploded in popularity in recent years.  Dentists in Mexico have jumped on for the ride.

These dentists now offer everything from cleanings and fillings to more complicated procedures such as implants and full mouth reconstructions.  The problem arises as dentistry is increasingly marketed as a commodity, downplaying the qualifications of the caregiver to emphasize the savings.

You can count on your local dentist to adhere to North American standards of care, training, sterility, and licensing that you know are enforced and that you can easily check on. Also, they will be close by in case any complications arise after your treatment. Finally, you’ll build a history with your dentist and have access to other patients who’ve seen them and can share experiences similar to your own.

Compare all this to the experience of having a procedure done in Mexico. The standards of care, training, sterility, and licensing  are all much different or non-existent at all.  You may not be able to access, comprehend, or confirm their certification and licensing.  You can’t be sure that their instruments are sterile.  And how will you deal with any complications that may arise after you get home, possibly years from now?

Although there are excellent dentists and doctors in every country, it is important to remember that different standards of care exist everywhere.

Robot designed to help in training Dentists posted on 4/7/2010

Cosmetic dentists across Florida in Jacksonville, Orlando, Boca Raton and Palm Beach may soon be training and practicing their craft in a different way thanks to some Japanese engineers.  Researchers at several universities there joined together recently to design a robot that can be used to train dentists.

The result of their efforts is a robot named Hanako, who is a very authentic looking female.  Hanako is programmed to act like a patient visiting the dentist, using random actions such as sneezing and production of saliva, as well as reactions to the dentist doing something painful to her mouth.

Hanako is able to sense pain thanks to built in touch sensors throughout the mouth. These sensors communicate with a computer program which controls her actions.  For example, Hanako will elicit a gag reflex if the dentist makes a mistake. Perhaps the most helpful tool, however, is that the robot is designed to communicate with the dentist as well.

Hanako has the ability to answer and ask dozens of questions. It can challenge a practicing dentist to diagnose a set of symptoms that are presented to them.  This can be a very valuable tool in teaching dentists or keeping their skills sharp.

New procedure dubbed the Dental Facelift posted on 3/31/2010

Cosmetic dentists throughout Florida from Jacksonville to Orlando to Boca Raton have been improving the look of their patients smile for decades with implants, veneers and promotion of good dental health.  A new procedure by a dentist in New York, however, may actually give patients the results of a facelift without going under the knife.

Patients who whish to look years younger may soon have the option of visiting their local cosmetic dentist rather than going to a plastic surgeon.

Manhattan dentist Dr. Irwin Smigel invented the procedure, which he is calling the “dental facelift.”  He was recently honored by the Smithsonian Institute for his contributions to the field.

As we get older, Dr. Smigel says our facial muscles and teeth begin to wear down. As this happens and our mouth structure and positioning are changed on the inside, the outside will begin to cave inward. The result can be a dramatic change in our facial appearance such as droopy cheeks or even jowls.

"You can undo all of that," Dr. Smigel said. "I look at someone and I see how I can change their looks and change their facial structure," Dr. Smigel said. 

Using a variety of different techniques such as bonding, implanting veneers, or dentures, Smigel can build onto the teeth in the mouth to provide new support that lifts the face. Patients experience fuller, more youthful looking faces.

The procedures usually require at least two visits and can cost several thousand dollars.  Also, results are typically much more subtle than a surgical procedure.  However, the fact that patients can forego traditional surgery and recover without scars or bandages has many considering this option.

Study shows dental bright spot for kids despite recession posted on 3/25/2010

Dentists across Florida and the rest of the country have seen the unfortunate results of families going without dental insurance as jobs are lost in America.  However, a recent study shows that parents are still thinking of their children’s dental health more than in the past.

A recent study released by Delta Dental in Minnesota showed that the Tooth Fairy is paying more for baby teeth now than a year ago.  The survey of 1500 parents across the country discovered that 86% of them are not letting the current economic downturn affect the Tooth Fairy’s rewards. In fact, kids are now receiving an average of $2.13 per tooth this year, which is up 13% from last year.

Delta established the poll to track prices over history, learn about baby tooth traditions in other countries and compare Tooth Fairy prices here with other areas.  Experts are saying the recent increase in tooth value matches recent changes we have seen in the stock markets.  Some wonder if this may be a new economic indicator.

While stress from the current recession has brought more people to the dentist as a result of jaw clenching and tooth grinding, this is a touch of positive news.

New Dental Laser Device cleared for use by FDA posted on 3/17/2010

Dentists in your area of Florida may soon be getting a new tool that will make it much more comfortable for them to perform regular dental and cosmetic dentistry procedures.  Regulators for the Food and Drug Administration this week approved the use of a hand held cordless laser device for dentists.

California-based medical device manufacturer Biolase Technology Inc. developed the device, which is the size of a large pen has no foot pedals or cords.  They are calling it the iLase, after a genre of other handheld devices growing in popularity.

Shares of the company, which makes laser devices used in various dental procedures, closed up 19% Tuesday after news of the clearance by the FDA.

The company claims iLase can be used in 25 different dental procedures, including cleaning between the gums and teeth to treat periodontal disease.

Biolase hopes to begin delivery of the device to dentists as early as April.

Dentists recommend good eating habits for Dental Health posted on 3/16/2010

Dentists in Florida and elsewhere have been telling their patients for decades to avoid sugary foods in order to save their teeth from cavities.  We all grew up with our parents telling us to brush after meals when possible.  But some new advice says it is also important when and how often we eat in order to keep out teeth healthy.
 
Eating foods that are high in sugar produces an acid which makes it more likely for a cavity to develop.  According to the American Dental Association, as food passes through the mouth it meets the bacteria that lives there.

Dentists now say it’s not only what you eat but also when you eat that makes a difference in good dental health.  The more often you eat and the longer food remains in your mouth, the more damage it can cause.  When you don’t clean your teeth after eating, the bacteria uses the sugar to produce acids that can destroy enamel, the hard surface of the tooth.

Also, foods eaten as part of a meal cause less harm.  More saliva is released during full meals, which flushes food from the mouth and lessens the effects of acids. If you can’t brush following a meal, you can also chew sugar free gun to help fight cavities. Certain foods like nuts, cheese, or apples can also help clean your teeth naturally, so it is important to maintain a balanced diet.

New certification program allows Dentists to go green posted on 3/3/2010

A new association launched recently will offer guidance and certification for dental practices in Orlando, Florida and elsewhere wishing to operate in a more environmentally friendly way.  Dentists across the country are learning how they can make minor adjustments to the services and products they offer to make a difference in their environmental impact.

The Eco-Dentistry Association (EDA) is an international association which promotes environmentally sound practices in dentistry.  The recently announced their GreenDOC, or Dental Office Certification Program, which is currently the only green business certification designed specifically for dentistry.

The program encourages an examination of an offices’ products and services in several categories including Sustainable Location; Waste Reduction; Pollution Prevention; Energy Conservation; Water Conservation; Patient Care, Workplace Policies, and Community Contribution; Leadership, and Innovation.

Center urges dentists, professionals to teach kids proper dental care posted on 2/26/2010

A national health organization is echoing what Orlando dentists have been telling kids for years: taking care of your teeth now will prevent cavities and other serious dental problems later.  Now local dentists, periodontists and nurses are being urged to go spread the message in area schools.

With the recession leaving many parents without proper dental treatment for their children, it is even more important that kids know how to take care of their own teeth.

According to studies by the Pew Center, almost 20% of children in the United States do not have access to dental care. Without proper care, health problems with teeth can lead to other issues such as blood infections and heart problems.

The Pew Center, which promotes proactive health awareness and practices, claims that tooth decay is the most common disease in children, and affects almost 60 percent of kids. A shocking 80% of all dental disease in children is concentrated in kids from the poorest 25% of families who have a tough time getting care, a recent study said.

Florida recently received a failing grade for its overall dental care, which doesn’t bode well for generations to come unless something changes.

Florida fails in national dental rankings posted on 2/24/2010

Dentists from Jacksonville to Orlando to Boca Raton are no doubt frustrated at the ranking of their state in a recent national study which claims to rate dental hygiene and awareness in each area. 

The Pew Research Center in Washington DC conducted the study, which looks at several criteria like state dental policies, school programs, dental services and the promotion of dental health.  Floridians received an "F" grade for their below-acceptable dental hygiene.

While 8 other states received a similar failing grade in the study of eight benchmarks, Florida still lagged among the bottom of those states by meeting only two of the eight.

And although we can also boast some of the most beautiful smiles in the country, a shocking finding showed that 75% of children here receive no dental care.

The study concluded our state will need we need approximately 750 more dentists to service these kids.

Study shows children’s dental visits linked to their parents posted on 2/3/2010

Orlando dentists are cautioning parents to set a good example for their children’s dental health after a new study revealed that a child’s likelihood of receiving regular dental care is strongly tied to whether their parents maintain regular dental care.

The report, which recently appeared in the Journal of Pediatrics, was the first to analyze the relationship between parents’ and their kids’ visits.  The researchers also noted that tooth decay is among the most common diseases in children and is more prevalent in minority and low-income kids.

"We also found that the children of parents who have put off their own dental care for financial reasons are more likely to have their care deferred due to cost as well. It looks like strategies to promote oral health should focus on the whole family," the author said.

Dentists see people putting off routine check ups during recession posted on 1/27/2010

Dentists in Orlando and elsewhere are noticing a disturbing trend: people putting off routine dental care to try to save money.  In the long run, however, this could end up costing more.

Dentist studies indicate an increasing number of people are delaying basic dental care during these tough economic times to save a few dollars. But this can lead to bigger problems. A small cavity may be treated with a relatively inexpensive filling. A larger one that is missed without regular dental visits could require a crown, or a root canal. The tooth might even need to be extracted.

A dentist is trained to notice problems with their patients’ teeth before they know it themselves. An X-ray exam at regular visits can also detect dental problems patients cannot see or feel.

Studies have shown that dental disease also plays a role in heart disease as well as other diseases of the body. Dentists look for oral cancer, a particularly aggressive disease, among others.

Dentists say stress can also affect general health and, in turn, dental health. Many dentists also see an increase in tooth clenching and grinding during stressful times.

Lawsuit blames Florida's Medicaid reimbursement rates for poor dental care posted on 12/13/2009

This week, three Florida mothers are slated to testify in a class action lawsuit which claims the state does not provide their children with adequate access to quality dental or medical care.

Various associations, including the Florida Academy of Pediatric Dentists, the Florida Dental Association and the Florida Pediatric Society, have joined the parents in their legal dispute.

The lawsuit claims that in 2007 about 390,000 Florida children did not get a medical checkup and more than 750,000 were denied dental care, the Associated Press reports.

Specifically, the plaintiffs are asking state officials to raise Medicaid reimbursement rates to dentists and doctors, which are among the lowest in the country.

"This case applies not just to the dozen or so named plaintiffs, but also to the approximately 1.6 million children currently covered by Florida Medicaid during the course of a year," a representative from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) commented.

In testimony submitted to the U.S. House of Representatives by the AAPD during the healthcare reform debate, the organization claimed that "Medicaid's dental programs that reimburse at market-based rates will succeed in meeting children's oral health needs.

In underserved communities, families have the option of purchasing discount dental plans to access care and save on costs.

Dental Sealants help prevent cavities for children posted on 12/13/2009

Dentists in cities like Orlando, Dallas and Los Angeles are finding that using Dental sealants can be a great tool in fighting emerging cavities in children’s teeth. Plus, the treatment is simple and pain-free.

Dental sealants were developed in the 1970s, but have become more popular in the recent decades. Essentially, they are plastic coatings that keep cavities from forming on teeth.

According to Dr. Dan Shaw of the University of Minnesota, "They're a really good preventative benefit.”

The application is simple: first, a tooth is cleaned and dried. Then, a special gel is applied. The tooth is then washed and dried again, after which the sealant is painted on the tooth.

Usually the back eight teeth are targets for the sealants. "The chewing surfaces of those teeth are really rough and groovy and that's where you're likely to get the cavities," Shaw said.

Another plus is that the sealant is virtually undetectable. It is available in clear, white or tinted shades. Studies have shown they are effective at preventing cavities and last at least five years. They are currently covered by some insurance plans.