Healthy Smile Series: Water Flosser ~ Helping you achieve bacterial reduction

  It reduces the periodontal infection

One of the primary benefits of the Water Flosser is that the pulsating action creates a compression / decompression phase that expels subgingival bacteria from the pocket.

    It reduces the inflammation

Study after study, many of six months duration has shown that people who add the Water Flosser to daily self-care do better at reducing bleeding and gingivitis than people who do not use the Water Flosser.

   It helps people with diabetes

People with diabetes tend to be at greater risk for periodontal disease and often have more severe gingival inflammation. A study on people with diabetes found that those who used the Water Flosser for three months had a 44% better reduction in bleeding and a 41% better reduction in gingivitis over those who did not use the Water Flosser.

   It is safe and gentle around dental implants

Maintenance of implants is critical to their long-term survival.

    There is nothing better for cleaning around orthodontic (braces) appliances

Keeping orthodontic (braces) appliances clean can be tedious and challenging. Water Flossing makes it easier. Adolescents age 11 -17 who used a Water Flosser with the Orthodontic Tip very day for four weeks had three times the reduction in plaque versus those who used a manual brush and floss and fives times the reduction than those who only brushed.

    It gets deeper into the pocket that string floss

Findings indicate that using the Water Flosser with the Classic Jet Tip results in penetration of approximately 50% of the depth of the pocket. In contrast, it is widely accepted though not scientifically documented that ideally, floss reaches about 3 mm due to technique / anatomical constraints.

   It removes plaque

A study at the University of Southern California Center for Biofilms found that a three-second application of water flossing with the Classic Jet Tip at medium pressure removed 99.9% of the plaque biofilm from the treated area.

    It is easy to use

Using the Water Flosser is easier than string flossing because it requires less manual dexterity. It takes about one minute to cleanse the entire mouth. Beyond the initial investment, all you need is water, although the Water Flosser can accommodate most mouth rinses.

    It is a clinically proven effective alternative to string floss

Studies have directly compared the Water Flosser to string floss. The Water Flosser with the Classic Jet Tip was up to 93% more effective at reducing bleeding and up to 52% more effective at reducing gingivitis than string floss. Plaque removal was also better.

    It is evidence based

The Water Flosser has been evaluated more than 50 times since its introduction in 1962. Clinical findings reducing bleeding and gingivitis are supported by positive outcomes from more than 20 clinical trials.

 Reference: RDH magazine

For more information visit our website; Office of Brian Nylaan facebook page; or Brian S. Nylaan, D.D.S. facebook page.

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Healthy Smile Series: X-rays can detect dental problems early

Since many oral diseases cannot be spotted by just a visual or physical examination, X-rays are a valuable preventive tool to help your dentist identify oral health problems early.

X-rays provide information about your oral health, such as early-stage cavities, gum disease, infections or some types of tumors.

How often dental X-rays should be taken depends on your overall oral health condition, age, risk for disease and signs of oral disease that might be present. While a recent study suggests yearly or more frequent X-rays might increase the risk of developing meningioma, the most commonly diagnosed brain tumor, the American Dental Association reiterates its professional opinion that dentists should continue to order X-rays when necessary for proper diagnosis and treatment.

It is important to note that this latest study relied on patients’ memories of having X-rays taken years earlier. Studies of this type have shown that the ability to accurately recall information is often difficult. Therefore, the results of studies that use this design can be unreliable because they are affected by what scientists call “recall bias.”
Further, the study acknowledges that some of the subjects received dental X-rays decades ago, when radiation exposure was greater.

Radiation rates were higher in the past because of the use of old X-ray technology and slower speed film.

The West Michigan Dental Society urges patients to continue to see your dentist regularly and to talk with your dentist about the importance of X-rays and what standard safety precautions are used in the dental office.

How do dental X-rays work?

As X-rays pass through your mouth, they are mostly absorbed by teeth and bone because these tissues are thicker than cheeks and gums. When X-rays strike the film or a digital sensor, an image called a radiograph is created. Radiographs allow your dentist to see hidden problems, such as tooth decay, infections and signs of gum disease.

Patient safety

The American Dental Association recommends the use of protective aprons and thyroid collars on all patients. In addition, the ADA recommends that dentists use E- or F-speed film, the two fastest film speeds available, or a digital X-ray.

Patients are encouraged to talk to their dentist if they have questions about their dental treatment. As a sciencebased organization, the ADA fully supports continuing research that helps dentists deliver high-quality oral health care safely and effectively.

Benefits of dental X-rays

Since many diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissues cannot be seen when your dentist examines your mouth, an X-ray can help reveal: Small areas of decay  between the teeth or existing fillings; Infections in the bone;   Gum disease;  Abscesses or cysts; Developmental  abnormalities; Some types of tumors.
Finding and treating dental problems early can save time, money and unnecessary discomfort.

Dental X-rays vs. other radiation sources

The amount of radiation patients are exposed to from dental X-rays is very small compared to daily exposure from cosmic radiation and naturally occurring radioactive elements.

Radiation exposure is measured in millisieverts (mSv), a unit of measure that allows for some comparison between radiation sources that exposure the entire body (natural background radiation) and those that only expose a portion of the body (dental X-ray).

For example, a dental bitewing X-ray yields 0.038 mSv, while radiation from outer space yields 0.510 mSv per year. In addition, the average radiation in the U.S. from natural sources each year is 3.0.

Pregnancy and dental X-rays

In some cases, a dental X-ray might be needed for dental treatment that cannot wait until after a baby is born. Because untreated dental infections might pose a risk to the fetus, dental treatment might be necessary to maintain the health of the mother and child.

The use of a leaded apron minimizes exposure to the abdomen and should be used when any dental radiograph is taken.

The use of a leaded thyroid collar is recommended for women of childbearing age, pregnancy women and children.

Also, dental X-ray exams do not need to be delayed if a patient is trying to become pregnancy or is breastfeeding.


Reference: West Michigan Dental Society

LINKS:

Dental X-Rays

Digital X-Rays

Panoramic X-Rays

Children's Dentistry

Healthy Smile Series: Don’t cry foul!

Bad breath is treatable

A lot of people are embarrassed by bad breath, but it is a problem that can usually be solved. Certain foods and beverages can cause bad breath. When strong foods like onions and garlic are the cause, bad breath is only temporary. However, some people suffer from more permanent and lasting breath problems.

The causes of bad breath

Most bad breath, also known as halitosis, is caused by incomplete or insufficient oral hygiene, along with eating foods that contribute to bad breath. What you eat affects the air you exhale. Certain foods contribute to bad breath. Once the food is absorbed into the bloodstream, it is transferred to the lungs, where it is expelled.

Brushing, flossing and mouthwash will mask the odor only temporarily. Odors continue until the body eliminates the food. Dieters may develop unpleasant breath from infrequent eating.

Dry mouth

Another common cause of bad breath is dry mouth, which happens when the flow of saliva decreases. Saliva is necessary to cleanse the mouth and remove particles that may cause odor. Dry mouth happens naturally when you sleep. You may refer to it when you wake as “morning breath.” It is generally worse in those people who are “mouth breathers” or sleep with their mouths open and those who tend to snore more often.

Dry mouth also may be caused by certain medications, salivary gland problems, cancer chemotherapy, or head and neck radiation treatments. It also is simply more common to have dry mouth as you age. If you suffer from dry mouth, your dentist may prescribe artificial saliva or suggest using sugarless candy and increasing your fluid intake.

And smokers? Almost all people who use tobacco have bad breath. Talk to your dentist about ways to kick the habit.

Gum disease

Bad breath also may be a sign that you have other mouth issues, such as tooth decay or gum disease. One of the warning signs of gum disease is bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth. Gum disease is caused by plaque, the sticky, colorless film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth.

The bacteria create toxins that irritate the gums. In the advanced stage of the disease, the gums, bone and other structures that support the teeth become damaged. With regular dental checkups, your dentist can detect and treat gum disease early. Sometimes, bad breath can be a sign of a more serious health issue. If your bad breath has a particular reoccurring odor; perhaps fishy, fruity or like ammonia, you might need to see your physician.

Diagnosis and treatment

When you eat, minute particles of food get trapped between your teeth and in tiny grooves and bumps on your tongue. That’s why proper brushing and flossing are the first line of defense against bad breath.

Many people use mouthwash to combat bad breath, but most over-the counter rinses are just a temporary mask and do not solve the underlying problem. Your local West Michigan Dental Society member dentist may recommend a medicated mouthwash instead. With good care on your part and professional care from your dentist, you can combat bad breath and enjoy life with confidence.

Brought to you by the 600 members of the West Michigan District Dental Society in Kent, Ottawa, Ionia, Montcalm and Mecosta counties. West Michigan District Dental Society dentists are also members of the Michigan Dental Association.

For more information visit our website; Office of Brian Nylaan facebook page; or Brian S. Nylaan, D.D.S. facebook page.

Schedule an appointment.

What your mouth reveals about your health

If left untreated, this oral health problem can damage more than your gums. Gum disease has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke and other health problems.

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a chronic infection that can result in a number of health problems, from mild inflammation to severe gum damage to tooth loss, if left untreated. In addition, gum disease can affect your overall health, and has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.

Gum disease develops in the space between your gum line and your teeth. It causes tissue inflammation and damage that can eventually cause your gums to recede. The severity of gum disease is determined by the depth of the excess space, or so-called "pockets," that form as your gum tissue recedes.

The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research estimates that 80 percent of adults in the United States have some degree of gum disease.

Types of Gum Disease

Gum disease is classified as either gingivitis or periodontitis. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease and is reversible with treatment. But it can also develop into the more serious oral health problem, periodontitis.

·    Gingivitis results in swollen, irritated gums that bleed easily. Good oral health habits, including daily flossing and brushing, as well as getting regular professional teeth cleanings can prevent and help to reverse this disease, which typically doesn't result in the loss of gum tissue or teeth.

·    Periodontitis occurs as a result of untreated gingivitis. In periodontitis, the gums significantly recede from the teeth, leading to the formation of infected pockets. As your body's immune system struggles to fight off these infection, tissues and bones may start to break down. Without proper treatment, the gums, connective tissue, and jaw bones that support your teeth may all deteriorate and begin to compromise your overall oral health. Eventually, the teeth will loosen and either fall out or have to be removed.

Signs of Gum Disease

Your oral health is critical to your overall health. If you notice any of the following symptoms, seek care from a dentist who is knowledgeable about treating gum disease:

·      A sour taste in your mouth or persistently bad breath

·      A change in how your partial dentures fit

·      A change in how your teeth fit together when you bite   down

·       Bleeding gums

·      Gum tissue that pulls away from your teeth

·      Loose teeth or increasing spaces between your teeth

·      Pain when chewing

·     Unusually sensitive teeth

·      Swollen and tender gums

Causes of Gum Disease

In addition to poor oral health habits, other factors associated with gum disease include:

·    Smoking and chewing tobacco — tobacco products irritate the gums and make gum disease more difficult to treat.

·    Systemic diseases that affect the immune system, such as cancer, diabetes, and HIV/AIDS

·    Taking certain medications, including some blood pressure drugs, antidepressants, steroids, and oral contraceptives, that can cause dry mouth. The lack of saliva in your mouth makes you more susceptible to gum disease since one of its main functions is to help wash away food particles and bacteria.

·    Crooked teeth

·    Dental bridges that don’t fit properly

·    Old and defective fillings

·    Hormonal fluctuations, particularly those that occur during pregnancy

·    Genetic differences may make some people more susceptible to gum disease

·    Stress, which can reduce your body's defenses when it comes to fighting off any infection, including gum infections

Consequences of Untreated Gum Disease

Untreated gum disease has been associated with an increased risk for heart disease and stroke, and for women, an increased chance of delivering a baby with a low birth weight. Gum disease has also been linked to trouble controlling blood sugar among diabetics.

Gum Disease Treatment Options

Gum disease can be treated in several ways, depending on whether you have gingivitis or periodontitis. The primary goal is to manage the chronic infection that leads to gum damage. Treatment options include:

·    Regular professional deep cleanings

·    Medications that are either taken orally or are inserted directly into infected tissue pockets

·    Surgery, in more severe cases of gum disease. One type, called flap surgery, involves pulling up the gum tissue in order to remove tartar and then stitching the tissue back in place for a tight fit around the teeth. Tissue grafts can also be used to replace severely damaged bone or gum. In bone grafting, for instance, a small piece of mesh-like material is placed between the bone and gum tissue, enabling the supportive tissue and bone to regenerate.

While it's good to know there are treatments, it's better to avoid gum disease in the first place, by brushing and flossing at least twice a day, eating a balanced diet, and visiting your dentist regularly for exams and cleanings.

Reference: Everyday health

Brushing your teeth for two full minutes is the best for your health. Here are some great ways to encourage your child, and yourself, to brush for two minutes.

Just in time for new back to- school routines, the Ad Council, along with the American Dental Association, has launched Kids’ Healthy Mouths to teach parents and children about the importance of oral health.

It is part of The Partnership for Healthy Mouths Healthy Lives, a coalition of leading oral health organizations committed to improving children’s oral health so that they can develop into healthy, productive adults.

The Kids’ Healthy Mouths website, 2min2x.org, features fun facts, lots of helpful resources and links to 14 two minute videos produced by Cartoon Network and My Kazoo.

This new public service campaign stresses the importance of brushing for two minutes twice a day.

Many people do not know that tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease, with more than 16 million kids are suffering from untreated tooth decay in the U.S. The mouth is the gateway to a person’s overall health, and an unhealthy mouth can be associated with obesity, diabetes, oral cancer and other medical conditions.

Parents report their children usually waste more than two hours each day playing video games, texting or watching videos online. The campaign highlights the necessary balance of children’s time: If your child spends hours on playtime, why shouldn’t they spend two minutes taking care of their teeth?

“The dental profession hopes that this simple message will have a positive and long-lasting impact on children’s oral health and overall health,” according to the local dental society president, Dr. Tyler Wolf. “Most oral health problems are preventable using steps that can easily become a part of every child’s daily routine,” Wolf said. “This campaign will help parents learn how easy it is to protect their children, give them healthy mouths and help them lead healthy lives.”

Sesame Street has created videos for its “Healthy Teeth, Healthy Me” campaign. One features Elmo singing to kids, reminding them to “Brushy Brush” their teeth every day.

Not all of the videos are directly related to healthy teeth. These videos feature Looney Tunes and Tom and Jerry stories, along with entertainment by Dream Jam Band, to entice children to spend two full minutes brushing their teeth.

There is also the Brushytime App that can be downloaded to your smartphone. This application allows you to choose a video and customize the time for brushing.

 

Parents are encouraged to have their children watch the videos on a smartphone or computer while they brush their teeth. Since kids are accustomed to using their electronic devices throughout the day, it’s a great way for the kids to use them for something as productive as brushing their teeth.

In addition to brushing and flossing at home, it’s important to eat healthy foods and have regular dental checkups, because a healthy smile leads to a healthy body.

References:

West Michigan District Dental Society
2min2x.org
Brushytime applicaiton
Healthy teeth; Healthy me
nylaandental.com

 

Join the Fight to Save Antibiotics; Preventing Super bugs

As you learned in our blog post last week, Misusing antibiotics can mess with your immune system and make it impossible for your body to fight against lethal infections. Here are five simple things you can do to help prevent superbugs.

1. Use antibiotics correctly. Work with your doctor to determine if an antibiotic will truly help what's ailing you, then follow her instructions. Any time you skip doses, don't finish a course, or drink alcohol when you're on the meds, you make the antibiotic less effective and give bacteria a chance to become resistant.

2. Buy meat labeled "raised without antibiotics" or "organic." Those exact phrases mean that antibiotics were not given to the animal needlessly. Watch out for wording; labels that say "all natural" guarantee nothing. Some good, antibiotic-free brands: Applegate Farms, Murray's Chicken, Bell & Evans, and Niman Ranch. Can't find these in your market? Tell your grocer to stock up and that you and your friends will buy! Also ask your kids' school to serve meat that was raised without antibiotics. Chicago Public Schools just became the largest district in the country to do this.

3. Ask your favorite restaurants if they use meat raised without antibiotics. If a company like Chipotle can do it, why can't others? "Things will only change if we ask for changes," says Gail Hansen, a public health advocate with the Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming.

4. Spread the message. "Like" the group Save Antibiotics on Facebook, and get friends to do the same. Awareness is key: Most people have no idea which illnesses require antibiotics, nor do they know how much the drugs are used in food animals. "Unless you grew up on a farm, why would you know that?" says Hansen.

5. Tell Congress to pass a law. The Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act would withdraw the use of antibiotics that are vital to humans from food-animal production unless the animals are diagnosed with illnesses. Says U.S. Representative Louise M. Slaughter, who introduced the bill: "Send a letter to your member of Congress — along with this article! — and tell them to sign the bill and get it passed." Personalize your own letter at saveantibiotics.org/moms/action., then get your reps' addresses at senate.gov and house.gov.

 Author:  Erin Zammett Ruddy; Redbook Magazine

How "preventive care" pays you during tough times.

Most of us get through tough times by cutting back or delaying "unnecessary" expenses. However, in order to save your teeth, your health and your money make sure you are not postponing your dental care.

You can have serious dental problems without having pain. Dental issues do not go away by themselves. They will eventually turn into more complex, painful and costly problems.

"During tought economic times, we know that health and health care can suffer, especially for those individuals who lose their insurance coverage. We want to encourage utilization of services - like preventive care - that are highly effective and relatively inexpensive.", says Brian C. Quinn, PhD of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

Do not allow limited or lack of dental insurance coverage stop you from making healthy decisions. Your best dental insurance is your daily home care, getting routine preventive exams and having regular professional dental cleaning performed.

Remember these exams are highly effective and relatively inexpensive. Preventive measures will save you a lot of money in the long run. No dental plan coves all dental costs and your coverage may not cover conditions that existed before your plan became effective. However, this does not mean your condition does not need to be treated.

Do not confuse what your dental plan will cover with  the dental services you need to have performed. Your dental coverage is determined by your insurance carrier; your dental care is determined by your dental professional here at Dr. Nylaan's office.

Trying to save a few dollars by skipping preventive examinations, professional cleanings, or necessary dental work is not a wise decision.

Routine preventive care is the smart solution for your dental health and overall health!

Another smart solution is enrolling in our Dental Health Investment Plan. Our commitment to you through this plan is that we will increase your monthly investment in yourself by 20%.

It’s vital to visit dentist during pregnancy

You have so much to think about during pregnancy, but don’t overlook your oral health, which can be affected by the hormonal changes you will experience during this time.

It is important to continue to see your dentist during pregnancy for oral exams and professional teeth cleaning. Be sure to tell your dentist you are pregnant and about any changes you have noticed in your oral health.   

For example, women are more likely to develop gingivitis during pregnancy. Gingivitis is an infection of the gums that can cause swelling and tenderness.

Your gums also may bleed a little when you brush or floss. Left untreated, gingivitis can affect the supporting tissues that hold your teeth in place. Your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings to prevent gingivitis.

Sometimes, lumps appear along the gum line and between teeth. These swellings are harmless, but they bleed easily and have a red, raw-looking berry-like surface. Although these growths are sometimes called “pregnancy tumors,” they are not cancerous. They usually go away on their own after pregnancy, but they can be easily removed if they bother you.

Total health important    

Your oral health is an important part of your overall health, and untreated dental disease may be harmful to you and your baby.

Be sure to let your dentist know about any medications or supplements you are taking. Your dentist may need to use or prescribe medication as part of your treatment. Some medications are safe for limited use during pregnancy while others should not be used at all.

For example, if you develop an infection, your dentist might prescribe penicillin or amoxicillin. However, pregnant women should not be treated with tetracycline because it can stain the fetus’ developing teeth. Once the teeth come in, they make look gray or brown permanently as a result of these stains.

Talk to your dentist or physician about medications that are safe to use during pregnancy.

X-rays during pregnancy

Although X-rays often may be delayed until after your baby is born, your dentist may need to have an X-ray as part of your dental treatment. To minimize your exposure and that of the fetus to X-rays, your dentist will cover your abdomen with a protective apron and place a thyroid collar over your throat.

Your baby’s teeth

Your child’s baby teeth are important too. Children need strong, healthy teeth to chew their food, speak and have a goodlooking smile. Baby teeth also hold a space in the jaw for the adult teeth. If a baby tooth is lost too early, the teeth beside it may drift into the empty space. When it’s time for the adult teeth to come in , there may not be enough room.

Starting infants off with good oral care can help protect their teeth for decades to come. The American Dental Association recommends a dental visit for your child by the first birthday. Your child’s baby teeth are at risk for decay as soon as they first appear — which is usually around 6 months of age.

Tooth decay in infants and toddlers most often occurs in the upper front teeth. The good news is that decay is preventable. To reduce the risk of tooth decay, avoid frequent, prolonged exposure of the baby’s teeth in liquids that contain sugar, such as sweetened water and fruit juice.

Tooth decay can occur when the baby is put to bed with a bottle, or when a bottle is used as a pacifier for a fussy baby. The sugary liquids pool around the teeth while the child sleeps. Bacteria in the mouth use these sugars as food and produce acids that attack the teeth. After multiple attacks, the teeth can decay.

Infants should finish their bedtime and naptime bottles before going to bed.

Visit our website for more information about your baby's teeth. 

Brought to you by the 600 members of the West Michigan District Dental Society in Kent, Ottawa, Ionia, Montcalm and Mecosta counties. West Michigan District Dental Society dentists are also members of the Michigan Dental Society.

HPV, which causes cervical cancer can also fuel oral cancer

WASHINGTON — A prolonged sore throat once was considered a cancer worry mainly for smokers and drinkers. Today there's another risk: A sexually transmitted virus is fueling a rise in oral cancer.
The HPV virus is best known for causing cervical cancer. But it can cause cancer in the upper throat, too, and a new study says HPV-positive tumors now account for a majority of these cases of what is called oropharyngeal cancer.

If that trend continues, that type of oral cancer will become the nation's main HPV-related cancer within the decade, surpassing cervical cancer, researchers from Ohio State University and the National Cancer Institute report Monday.

"There is an urgency to try to figure out how to prevent this," says Dr. Amy Chen of the American Cancer Society and Emory University, who wasn't part of the new research.
While women sometimes get oral cancer caused by the HPV, the risk is greatest and rising among men, researchers reported in the Journal of Clinical Oncology. No one knows why, but it begs the question of whether the vaccine given to girls and young women to protect against cervical cancer also might protect against oral HPV.

HPV vaccination is approved for boys to prevent genital warts and anal cancer, additional problems caused by human papillomavirus. But protection against oral HPV hasn't been studied in either gender, says Dr. Maura Gillison, a head-and-neck cancer specialist at Ohio State and senior author of the new research. That's important, because it's possible to have HPV in one part of the body but not the other, she says. A spokeswoman for Merck & Co., maker of the HPV vaccine Gardasil, said the company has no plans for an oral cancer study.

Monday's research was funded by the NCI and Ohio State. Gillison has been a consultant to Merck.
There are nearly 10,000 new cases of oropharyngeal cancer a year, and overall incidence has risen by 28 percent since 1988 even as other types of head-and-neck cancer have been declining.

Tobacco and alcohol have long been the main causes of these tumors, which occur in the tonsils, base of the tongue and upper throat. But over the past few years, studies have shown HPV is playing a role in that rise, probably due to an increase in oral sex even as tobacco use was dropping.

The new study took a closer look, tracking HPV over time by directly testing tumor tissue from 271 patients that had been stored in cancer registries in Hawaii, Iowa and Los Angeles. The proportion that were HPV-positive rose from just 16 percent in the late 1980s to nearly 73 percent by the early 2000s.
Translate that to the overall population, and the researchers concluded that incidence rates of the HPV-positive tumors more than tripled while HPV-negative tumors dropped by half.

Oral cancer has always been a bigger threat to men than women. Gillison says women account for only about 1 in 4 cases, and their incidence is holding steady while men's is rising. That raises questions about gender differences in sexual behavior or whether oral HPV infection is likely to linger longer in men.

While HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection, studies show women's bodies usually clear the virus from the cervix quickly; only an infection that persists for years is a cancer risk. It's not known if oral HPV acts similarly or even is as common.

Nor is it clear if oral sex is the only way it's transmitted, cautions Dr. Gregory Masters of the American Society for Clinical Oncology, an oncologist at Delaware's Helen Graham Cancer Center.
Regardless, just over 11,000 cases of cervical cancer will be diagnosed this year, a number that has been dropping steadily thanks to better Pap smears. (It's too soon to know what difference vaccination will make.) Gillison's team calculated that annual cases of cervical cancer will drop to 7,700 by 2020 – compared with about 8,700 cases of HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancer by then, about 7,400 of them in men.

The cancer society's Chen urged caution about those numbers, saying more data is needed. But she says two things are clear: First, patients with HPV-linked oral tumors have better survival odds than those with other types of this cancer, possibly because they tend to be younger. Studies are beginning to test if they can scale back today's treatment and thus suffer fewer long-term side effects such as problems with speech and swallowing.

And "just because you're not a smoker or drinker doesn't mean you can't get throat cancer," Chen says – so get checked for symptoms like a throat that's sore for longer than two weeks.

~ Lauran Neergaard - Huffington Post

Our office offers The OraRisk^® HPV Salivary Diagnostic Test

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common virus groups in the world. According to the Centers for Disease Control, at least 20 million people in the United States are infected with HPV and there are approximately 6 million new cases each year.

Oral HPV is a manifestation of the HPV virus in the mouth, and is primarily found in the oropharyngeal complex. Specific types of oral HPV are now considered to be separate and serious risk factor for developing oral cancers. Early detection and identification of the presence or absence of oral HPV is important, as early oral HPV infections do not typically cause any clinical signs or symptoms.
The OraRisk^® HPV test is a non-invasive, easy-to-use screening tool to identify the type(s) of oral HPV, a mucosal viral infection that could potentially lead to oral cancer. OraRisk^® HPV enables the clinician to establish increased risk for oral cancer and determine appropriate referral and monitoring conditions.

Who should be tested?

• Patients with traditional risk factors for oral cancer
• Patients who are sexually active
• Patients with signs and symptoms of oral cancer
• Patients with suspicious oral lesions

Schedule an appointment for your OraRisk^® HPV Salivary Diagnostic Test

"Look Mom - no cavities!" remember that Crest advertisement?

Are you one of the people that have never had a cavity in your lifetime, or are you the person that feels lucky to only have a few cavities at each dental visit?

So what's the difference between the "no-cavity" person and the multiple cavity person?  In general the "no-cavity" person has reduced risk factors compared to those who need a lot of dental treatment. These risk factors can include hereditary factors, dietary factors, anatomic factors and personal habits. There isn't necessarily a single reason that will put you at risk for dental problems. It is almost always a combination.

• The grooves in your back teeth, or molars, can be deep or shallow. This is determined by genes. People with deeper grooves are at a much greater risk to develop cavities in the grooves, or chewing surface of the teeth.
• You almost always get your oral bacteria from your mother. If she suffered from a lot of cavities and gum disease, you probably inherited the same troublesome oral bacteria.
• If you have reduced saliva flow, or dry mouth, you are more likely to have dental problems. Reduced saliva flow can come with age, illness, and is a side-effect of some medications.
• If you grind your teeth you are much more likely to have dental problems. Most tooth grinding takes place while you sleep. Tooth damage depends on how hard and how often you grind your teeth. Your level of stress, size of your jaw and chewing muscles can influence tooth grinding.
• Your diet also has a lot to do with dental problems. If you eat a lot of sticky, sugary foods, drink a lot of sugary drinks or consume a lot between meal snacks your dental problems can increase. The oral bacteria turn sugar into acid and that acid causes cavities. If you eat a lot of acidic foods this can cause the enamel to errode as well.

If you brush correctly and often you are less likely to have cavities. If you are a regular flossser your gums will be more healthy and you will have less cavities. You can control a few of these factors and there are things you can do to change the hereditary factors. You can have dental sealants placed to fill in the deep grooves, wear a bite splint to alleviate nighttime grinding, and control your diet.

If you are a "Look Mom - no cavities" person that is awesome. Everyone tries to be just like you! Does this mean you do not need to visit your dental office as frequently ? No, it does not. Your dental history makes you a lower risk for dental problems, but things can change and finding a problem while it is small or much better than finding it later, or too late.

• Medication changes can cause changes in your mouth. Dry mouth is a side-effect of many medications.
• Changes in your diet effect your mouth and can cause dental problems to start occuring.
• Aging. Unfortunately we all get older. Your natural saliva flow decrease as you age and medications usually increase causing changes in your oral bacteria and further reducing saliva flow. This increases your risk for tooth decay.

Moral of this story: Visit your dental office and work with your dentist or hygienist to maintain your smile which helps to maintain your overall health.

For more information visit our website.