Dentist Dunwoody: Modern dentistry, Modern dentist

Today, more and more people are becoming aware of what cosmetic dentistry has to offer in their everyday lives. With this awareness, there appears to be an increase in the demand for general dentists to offer cosmetic dentistry in a fast and effective manner. More than ever before, dentists are challenged to create a beautiful smile utilizing various modalities of restorative dentistry.  But is the general dentist the right person to be trusted with your precious smile?  The majority of general dentist are trained to maintain your oral health care.  But when it comes to the cosmetic aspects joined with the functional aspects of your smile, you might want to see a specialist, i.e. a prosthodontist.

Prosthodontists are specially trained to blend modern aesthetic techniques with the other important aspect of your teeth, i.e. eating.  There is a lot more than meets the eye then just altering the way a smile looks.  It also has to function and the training to make that happen properly is what is taught in the two year post-dental doctorate speciality of prosthodontics.

Prosthodontics: (crown, bridge, and implants) A Prosthodontist has a dental specialty license pertaining to the diagnosis, treatment planning, rehabilitation and maintenance of the oral function, comfort, appearance and health of patients with clinical conditions associated with missing or deficient teeth and/or oral and maxillofacial tissues using biocompatible substitutes. Most dentists are not trained prosthodontic graduates of a dental school - rather they take short continuing education and utilize trial and error experience to be able to understand how size, shape, color and symmetry all work together to create what a prosthodontists is trained in their post graduate work.   On the other hand, the prosthodontist is trained at a university to create the smile that implements the use of veneers, crowns, bridges and the increasingly more common procedure of dental implants to ensure that the right smile is achieved, both functionally and aesthetically beautiful.  If anyone has a specialty in cosmetic dentistry, it would be the prosthodontist.  So when you are seriously looking for a cosmetic dentist, look for a prosthodontist.

Of the 170 thousand dentists in the United States, only 3200 are prosthodontists.

Check out our reviews by going to www.rightsmilecenter.com/reviews.html

Novy Scheinfeld, DDS, PC

290 Carpenter Drive, 200A

Atlanta (Sandy Springs), GA 30328

404-256-3620

info@rightsmilecenter.com

www.rightsmilecenter.com

 

Related articles

•Top Atlanta Prosthodontist - Novy Scheinfeld, DDS (therightsmile.wordpress.com)

•Dentist Sandy Springs - ADA Accredited Prosthodontist is Your Cosmetic Dentist (therightsmile.wordpress.com)

•Atlanta Dentist: A Beautiful Smile by a Prosthodontist Is Priceless (therightsmile.wordpress.com)

Dentist East Cobb: Women and Oral Health

As a woman, you know that your health needs are unique and this includes your oral health needs. And because your needs are unique, you need to take extra care of yourself.  While women tend to take better care of their oral health than men do, women's oral health is not significantly better than men's.  This is because hormonal fluctuations throughout a woman's life can affect many tissues, including gum tissue.  These fluctuations occur when you mature and change, as you do during puberty or menopause, or other times when you have special health needs, such as menstruation and particularly during pregnancy.

According to the Journal of Periodontology[1] at least 23 percent of women between the ages 30 to 54 have periodontitis.[2]  And, 44 percent of women ages 55 to 90 who still have their teeth have periodontitis.  Yet many women do not realize they have it until it reaches an advanced state, which is why regular hygiene check-ups are so important.

Stages of your life - steps to protect your oral health.

Puberty - an increased level of sex hormones, such as progesterone and possibly estrogen, causes increased blood circulation to the gums. This may cause an increase in the gum's sensitivity and lead to a greater reaction to any irritation, including food particles and plaque. Signs to look for in your teenage daughter are swollen, red and/or tender gums.[3]

It is particularly important during this time in your daughter’s life to make sure she follows a good at-home oral hygiene regimen, including regular brushing and flossing, and regular dental care. In some cases, a dental professional may recommend periodontal therapy to help prevent damage to the tissues and bone surrounding the teeth.[4]

Menstruation – can result in menstruation gingivitis.  Women with this condition may experience bleeding gums, bright red and swollen gums and sores on the inside of the cheek. Menstruation gingivitis typically occurs right before a woman's period and clears up once her period has started.  Sometimes it occurs concurrent with stressful situations and menstruation.

Pregnancy - increase gingivitis or pregnancy gingivitis beginning in the second or third month of pregnancy that increases in severity throughout the eighth month. During this time, some women may notice swelling, bleeding, redness or tenderness in the gum tissue.[5] As a result of varying hormone levels, between 50%-70% of women will develop gingivitis sometime during their pregnancy - a condition called pregnancy gingivitis.[6] In some cases, gums swollen by pregnancy gingivitis can react strongly to irritants and form large lumps. These growths, called pregnancy tumors, are not cancerous and generally painless.

Studies have shown a possible relationship between periodontal disease and pre-term, low-birth-weight babies. Any infection, including periodontal infection, is cause for concern during pregnancy. In fact, pregnant women who have periodontal disease may be more likely to have a baby that is born too early and too small!

To prevent pregnancy gingivitis it's especially important to practice good oral hygiene habits, which include brushing at least twice a day, flossing once a day, and using an antimicrobial mouth rinse. If you are due for a professional cleaning, don't skip it simply because you are pregnant.  Now more than ever, professional dental cleanings are particularly important.

Oral contraceptives – while women are taking drugs to help treat periodontal disease, such as antibiotics, may lessen the effect of an oral contraceptive.  So be sure and consult your dentist about all the medications you are taking.

Menopause and Post-Menopause – not surprising given all the changes happening within your body, but you may experience changes in your mouth as well.  You may notice discomfort such as dry mouth, pain and burning sensations in the gum tissue and altered taste, particularly to salt and pepper.

In addition, menopausal gingivostomatitis affects a small percentage of women. Gums that look dry or shiny or bleed easily and range from abnormally pale to deep red may indicate this condition. Most women find that estrogen supplements help to relieve these symptoms.[7]

Bone loss is potentially associated with both periodontal disease and osteoporosis. Women considering Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) to help fight osteoporosis should note that this may help protect their teeth and your jawbone as well as other parts of the body.

What Should You Do?

See a dental professional for cleaning at least twice a year – you need to monitor your oral health.

If referred, see a periodontist in your area. Problems may include: Bleeding gums during brushing, red, swollen or tender gums.   Other issues such as persistent bad breath or pus between the teeth and gums.  If you’re a denture wearer a change in the fit of your dentures may occur.

Keep your dentist informed about any medications you are taking and any changes in your health history.

Brush and floss properly every day.  Review your techniques with a dental professional.

If there any questions that you might have, please call us to discuss them.

Novy Scheinfeld, DDS, PC

290 Carpenter Drive, 200A

Atlanta (Sandy Springs), GA 30328

404-256-3620

www.rightsmilecenter.com

info@rightsmilecenter.com

Related articles

·    Dentist Sandy Springs: 8 Windows your overall health sees through dentistry. (therightsmile.wordpress.com)

·    Dentist East Cobb: Top 4 Reasons Not to play hooky from Your Dental Cleanings (therightsmile.wordpress.com)

·    Dentist Dunwoody: How Often Should I See the Dentist? (therightsmile.wordpress.com)

·    Dentist Roswell: Brush and Floss if you want to keep 'em. (therightsmile.wordpress.com)

·    Dentist Sandy Springs: Healthy smile, healthy you! (therightsmile.wordpress.com)

---

[1] January 1999 issue of the Journal of Periodontology

[2] Periodontitis is an advanced state of periodontal disease in which there is active destruction of the periodontal supporting tissues.

[3] Women and Gum Disease: http://www.perio.org/consumer/women.htm.

[4] Ibid.

[5] Ibid.

[6] WebMd. Pregnancy Gingivitis and Pregnancy Tumors.

[7] Women and Gums: American Academy of Periodontology Journal. http://www.perio.org/consumer/women.htm.



Dentist Sandy Springs: Dental Care and Your Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is preeminent in maintaining your overall health.   Poor oral health has been linked to heart and lung disease, diabetes, stroke, extremely high-birth weight, and premature births.  Often, diseases give their first warning signs in the form of oral problems.

There are four basic steps to maintain good oral health:

1. Brush at least twice daily.
2. Floss every day.
3. Limit your consumption of junk food.
4. Visit the dentist regularly.

When brushing and flossing, the proper technique is important.  Also, using the right products is equally important.[1] Without consistent care, several oral health problems can result.  Risks of gingivitis, cavities, tooth decay, and other gum diseases can lead to oral cancer or tooth loss.[2]

 Here are some simple lifestyle changes that will improve oral health:

1. Set an example for your children by practicing good oral health care habits.
2. Check your children’s mouth for bleeding gums, swollen gums, gums receding away from teeth.
3. Check for bad breath.
4. Eat a balanced and nutritional diet.
5. Educate your children about the health risks of tobacco use.[3]

Age-specific recommendations.

Infants:

• For mothers to be, tetracycline is a no no.[4]
• Teething usually starts at around 6 months and should be brushed and flossed daily.
• Avoid baby bottle decay by not allowing your baby to fall asleep with a bottle full of juice or milk.[5]
• If your water is not fluoridated, ask your doctor about daily fluoride supplements.[6]

Toddlers/Children:

• Thumb sucking is a natural reflex for toddlers, but the habit may result in permanent bite issues.[7]  
• Make sure to use a pea-size amount of fluoride toothpaste when brushing your child’s teeth.
• At age two (2) schedule regular dental appointments.

Teenagers:

• Emphasize the importance of oral hygiene.
• Again, set a good example by practicing good oral hygiene yourself.
• Keep junk foods to a minimum for snacking.
• Discourage oral piercings as they increase the risk for oral infections and can cause injury to their teeth.

Adults:

• Brush twice daily, maybe more when possible.
• Floss at least once a day
• Watch for signs of gum disease such as redness, swelling or tenderness.[8]
• Visit the dentist at least twice each year for regular check-ups.[9]
• Limit sugary foods and soft drinks.

While practicing good oral hygiene is vital to your health, there is only so much that personal oral maintenance can do, so visiting your dentist for regular checkups is vital to your global health.[10]

The following is a list of reasons why you should visit your dentist frequently:

1) To prevent gum disease[11]

2) To prevent oral cancer[12]

3) To avoid losing your teeth[13]

4) To prevent dental emergencies[14]

5) To help maintain good overall health[15]

If we can be of service or answer any of your concerns, please call our office for a complimentary consult.

Novy Scheinfeld, DDS, PC

290 Carpenter Drive, 200A

Atlanta (Sandy Springs), GA 30328

404-256-3620

www.rightsmilecenter.com

info@rightsmilecenter.com

Article Sources:

Colgate World of Care http://www.colgate.com/app/Colgate/US/OC/Information/OralHealthBasics/GoodOralHygiene/OralHygieneBasics/FamilyGuideOralHealth.cvsp

Learn4Good http://www.learn4good.com/health/dental_health.htm

Caucus Educational Corporation http://www.caucusnj.org/caucusnj/special_series/oralhealth/importance.asp

U.S. Surgeon General http://www.perio.org/consumer/children.news.htm

“Top 5 Reasons to Visit the Dentist” by Tammy Davenport http://dentistry.about.com/od/dentalhealth/tp/visit_dentist.htm

The Oral Cancer Foundation http://www.oralcancerfoundation.org/

The American Dental Association http://www.ada.org/

Colgate Family Guide to Oral Care http://www.colgate.com/app/Colgate/US/OC/Information/OralHealthBasics/GoodOralHygiene/OralHygieneBasics/FamilyGuideOralHealth.cvsp

About the ADA seal of acceptance. (2005, March 14). Retrieved February 7, 2009, from American Dental Association Web site: http://www.ada.org/ada/seal/index.asp

American Dental Association News Releases. (2008, February 4). A reminder to parents: Early dental visits essential to children's health. American Dental Association. Retrieve February 6, 2009, from http://ada.org/public/media/releases/0802_release01.asp

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2006, December). Oral Health for Adults. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Division of Oral Health. Retrieved February 6, 2009 from http://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/publications/factsheets/adult.htm

Oral health in America: Summary of the surgeon general's report. (2006, April 16). Retrieved February 7, 2009, from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web site: http://www.cdc.gov/Oralhealth/publications/factsheets/sgr2000_05.htm

---

[1] When buying any dental products, look for the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance. The ADA seal is an important symbol of the dental product's safety and effectiveness (ADA Seal, 2005).

[2] This “silent epidemic” (U.S. Surgeon General) can be avoided by regular treatment at home and dental visits twice each year.

[3] Smoking is the number one preventable risk factor for gum diseases.

[4] A common antibiotic that causes tooth discoloration to your child and should not be used by nursing mothers or by expectant mothers in the last half of pregnancy.

[5] Try water or a pacifier and make sure to wipe teeth and gums with a gentle cloth or gums after feeding

[6] Fluoride is very important even before teeth start forming.

[7] Buck teeth or overbite.

[8] Contact your dentist if you experience any of these symptoms.

[9] Generally, plaque begins forming to maturity about every 3 months.

[10] "Routine dental exams uncover problems that can be easily treated in the early stages, when damage is minimal" (American Dental Association [ADA], 2008).

[11] Gum disease, specifically gingivitis, is a leading cause of tooth decay and tooth loss. If gum disease is discovered and diagnosed early, it can be treated. However, if left untreated, gum disease can become periodontitus, a more severe and irreversible stage. This may lead to serious damage of the gum tissue and jaw bone, causing your teeth to fall out. This late stage of gum disease can also increase your risk of developing a heart attack or stroke.

[12] According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, a United States citizen will die from this type of cancer every hour of every day. Of similar concern is the fact that out of the 34,000 newly diagnosed Americans every year, only half of these people will be alive in the next five years. However, while attending your regular dental checkup, your dentist and oral hygienist screen you for this specific cancer. If diagnosed early, there is a good chance that oral cancer can be treated successfully.

[13] Without your teeth, normal eating habits can obviously be far more difficult. Also, taking care of your natural teeth now will help you avoid paying for dentures later. As stated previously, gum disease can easily lead to adult tooth loss, but regular visits to your dentist and good oral hygiene can prevent it.

[14] Toothaches, a broken jaw, chipped teeth, and other dental emergencies can be easily avoided with regular dental visits. Early signs or symptoms of these unpleasant conditions can be detected and treated by your dentist. If left untreated, you may have to endure root canals or forced tooth removals- these treatments are significantly more expensive than preventative care such as regular check-ups (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2006).

[15] Since gum disease is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and certain forms of cancer, regular visits to your dentist can help prevent and treat this disease. By treating conditions early and learning from your dentist how to prevent oral damage, you can achieve better health and ultimately better quality years of life.



Dentist East Cobb: Teeth Whitening

More and more the esthetics of teeth are of great importance to patients, including tooth color.  The color of the teeth is influenced by a combination of their natural color and the presence of any external stains that may form on the tooth surface.   The type of natural stain and initial tooth color can play a significant role in the ultimate outcome of tooth bleaching.  Where oral health care used to be the primary function of a dentist, in the past 10 years the importance of tooth whitening for patients has seen a dramatic rise in the number of tooth whitening products and procedures to come onto the marketplace.  The relationship of the doctor and patient has changed.  And the demand by the consumer to kind of cookie cutter the results of esthetic dentistry is supplanting the traditional approach to oral health care.

There are a number of approaches to measuring tooth color changes following tooth whitening; each with their own advantages and disadvantages; and given the consumer’s demand for continued esthetic emphasis, tooth whitening will continue to demand further research and perfection.  The key factors that affect tooth whitening efficacy by peroxide containing products are a function of peroxide concentration, to a limited degree, light exposure and the allocation of application time.  In general, higher concentrations provide results faster than lower concentrations. While lower concentrations approach a similar degree of results as higher concentrations with extended treatment times, what appears to be a demand for immediate gratification by the consumer apparently drives a propensity to develop systems that deliver higher concentrations of peroxide with shorter application time periods.

Your smile is the first thing people notice. And our goal is to help you smile, but we want to make sure it's the right smile, one that's natural and comfortable for you.  If chipped, stained, or crooked teeth are "hiding" the real you, it's time for what is commonly referred to as a smile make over. It is understood that a beautiful smile can brighten your lifestyle every day, both professionally and socially.  And unlike plastic surgery, teeth whitening isn't a major operation.  Imagine coming in for a single appointment or two and emerging with the smile you've always wanted. The results are immediate and dramatic. There are many ways you can receive a youthful, attractive, natural looking smile.

You can be assured that as a prosthodontist, I understand the functional mechanics as well as the cosmetic artistry needed to evaluate and create the right smile for you. Your goals for achieving the smile you want and the dental health you need are my first priority in our Sandy Springs office.

Novy Scheinfeld, DDS, PC

290 Carpenter Drive, 200A

Atlanta (Sandy Springs), GA 30328

404-256-3620

info@rightsmilecenter.com

www.rightsmilecenter.com

Related articles

·    Dentist Sandy Springs: Should You See a Specialist? Probably Yes. (therightsmile.wordpress.com)

·    Dentist Sandy Springs: A Beautiful Smile Is Precious And Priceless (therightsmile.wordpress.com)

·    Dentist Sandy Springs: Should You See a Specialist? (therightsmile.wordpress.com)

·    Dentist Atlanta: Why you might be better off seeing a Prosthodontist (therightsmile.wordpress.com)

·    Sandy Springs Dental: Cosmetic Dentistry Helps Self-Esteem of Children (therightsmile.wordpress.com)