Mental Floss - Fact of the Day!
With the Olympic trials on TV and all of the excitement building for the London Olympics, I thought this random fact would be a perfect little tidbit for St. Louisans!
Did you know the 1904 Summer Olympic Games, held in St. Louis, included greased pole climbing, rock throwing, and even mud fighting.
Source: http://mentalfloss.com/amazingfactgenerator/?p=776#520#ixzz1yvVZlo1l
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
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Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
News You Can Use
Waterlines in the Dental Unit
Water is transferred from one location to another through a series of waterlines. While making this journey, the water can pick up a few microbes or germs called biofilm. The more tubing the water goes through, the more likely it is that biofilm builds up.
The average dental unit consists of thin tubes that force the water through at an excellerated pace. Recent studies have shown that this, along with the number of waterlines that the water has to go through increases the amount of biofilm in the water UNLESS the dentist has filters in place to filter the water. The American Dental Association has stated that dentists need to hold the water in the dental units to the same standard as drinking water. According to the American Public Health Association, drinking water cannot contain more than 500 colony forming units per million.
Here at Smile Station Dental, we have filters that are maintained and replaced yearly to ensure the quality and health of the water being delivered at the dental units. Our patients continued good health is a priority of ours.
Source: Waterlines, Dental Unit - American Dental Association - ADA.org
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
Water is transferred from one location to another through a series of waterlines. While making this journey, the water can pick up a few microbes or germs called biofilm. The more tubing the water goes through, the more likely it is that biofilm builds up.
The average dental unit consists of thin tubes that force the water through at an excellerated pace. Recent studies have shown that this, along with the number of waterlines that the water has to go through increases the amount of biofilm in the water UNLESS the dentist has filters in place to filter the water. The American Dental Association has stated that dentists need to hold the water in the dental units to the same standard as drinking water. According to the American Public Health Association, drinking water cannot contain more than 500 colony forming units per million.
Here at Smile Station Dental, we have filters that are maintained and replaced yearly to ensure the quality and health of the water being delivered at the dental units. Our patients continued good health is a priority of ours.
Source: Waterlines, Dental Unit - American Dental Association - ADA.org
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
Monday, June 25, 2012
News You Can Use
DIAGNOdent - Diagnostic Tool
With the inception of embedding fluoride into tap water, dentistry has seen a decrease in dental caries (or cavities) over the past decade or so. Decreased dental caries means healthier, more esthetically pleasing teeth. In an effort to keep patient’s teeth healthy and beautiful, the dental field has developed new technology to detect caries earlier and more reliably.
There are many benefits to this alternative form of decay diagnosis. Dental decay can be diagnosed earlier and may save the patient the time and money it takes getting the cavity filled. Early detection also means the restoration necessary will be smaller and more of the natural tooth can be preserved. The DIAGNOdent also does not employ x-rays, therefore cutting down on the exposure to radiation (although this is not sufficient to detect all dental problems and therefore should not replace the use of radiographs). This technology is also fast, easy, and painless as the hygienist just runs the sensor over the teeth without the use of a dental explorer.
A study conducted in Switzerland by Dr. Lussi found that visual inspection only diagnosed 57% of hidden decay while the DIAGNOdent correctly diagnosed 90%. This technology is a safe, reliable way to diagnose hidden occlusal dental caries that would otherwise be missed until the decay progresses.
With the inception of embedding fluoride into tap water, dentistry has seen a decrease in dental caries (or cavities) over the past decade or so. Decreased dental caries means healthier, more esthetically pleasing teeth. In an effort to keep patient’s teeth healthy and beautiful, the dental field has developed new technology to detect caries earlier and more reliably.
While this technology is not new to Smile Station Dental, I thought I would take this opportunity to explain how it works and why we use it. The DIAGNOdent uses wavelengths to scan over the tooth. A healthy tooth will have little to no fluorescence. When the tooth has some decay, even decay hidden to the naked eye or not yet detectable by radiograph or explorer, the tooth will exhibit fluorescence relating to the degree of severity of the decay. The sound, along with the number reading, allows me to know the depth of the decay present in the tooth
A study conducted in Switzerland by Dr. Lussi found that visual inspection only diagnosed 57% of hidden decay while the DIAGNOdent correctly diagnosed 90%. This technology is a safe, reliable way to diagnose hidden occlusal dental caries that would otherwise be missed until the decay progresses.
Source: DIAGNOdent Classic (2010). In KaVo. Retrieved June 25, 2012, from http://www.kavousa.com/US/DIAGNOdent/Classic/Benefits.aspx
R. Eric Emery, DDS
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
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Thursday, June 21, 2012
News You Can Use
Alternative Therapies for Dental Anxiety
Many people experience some anxiety during a visit to the dentist. While this anxiety can be assuaged by explanations of procedures for some people, others continue to feel apprehensive during all types of visits to the dentist. The American Dental Association recently published an article on alternative therapies for dealing with dental anxiety, namely guided imagery, relaxation exercises, and hypnosis.
Guided Imagery includes visualizing a pleasant, restful place. Concentrating on all of the sensory experiences that accompany the place, such as the smell along with the sights, helps you to be transported to the image created. Breathing deeply and slowly while pushing away any other thoughts that try to intrude will allow you to concentrate on this peaceful place and maintain relaxation.
Relaxation Techniques include focusing on breathing, mindfulness meditation, and body scan. These techniques will help you slow your heartrate and bring you to a state of relaxation, easing dental anxiety. An example of these techniques would be to sit comfortably in the dental chair. Breathe deeply and slowly with your eyes closed if necessary and focus on the word "calm" or "peace" while keeping other thoughts from entering your mind. Keep concentrating on the word and your breathing until a feeling of relaxation occurs. Another example is to focus exclusively on breathing. Place your hand just below your naval so you can feel the rise and fall of your breathing. Breathe in deeply and slowly, counting to three. Hold it for a count of three and then breathe out for another three counts. Continue to do this until feeling relaxed.
Hypnosis is a useful technique for those who want to control pain but cannot tolerate anesthesia due to health reasons. It is also successful for those who cannot tolerate needles. Self-hypnosis is possible with the guide of a hypnotherapist.
These techniques are just suggestions for extras ways to help control anxiety experienced during a visit to the dentist. They may not work for everyone. For those who experience extreme dental anxiety, a licensed therapist may be a better option.
Source: Dental Health for Adults: A Guide to Protecting Your Teeth and Gums. Copyright © by Harvard University. All rights reserved.
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
Many people experience some anxiety during a visit to the dentist. While this anxiety can be assuaged by explanations of procedures for some people, others continue to feel apprehensive during all types of visits to the dentist. The American Dental Association recently published an article on alternative therapies for dealing with dental anxiety, namely guided imagery, relaxation exercises, and hypnosis.
Guided Imagery includes visualizing a pleasant, restful place. Concentrating on all of the sensory experiences that accompany the place, such as the smell along with the sights, helps you to be transported to the image created. Breathing deeply and slowly while pushing away any other thoughts that try to intrude will allow you to concentrate on this peaceful place and maintain relaxation.
Relaxation Techniques include focusing on breathing, mindfulness meditation, and body scan. These techniques will help you slow your heartrate and bring you to a state of relaxation, easing dental anxiety. An example of these techniques would be to sit comfortably in the dental chair. Breathe deeply and slowly with your eyes closed if necessary and focus on the word "calm" or "peace" while keeping other thoughts from entering your mind. Keep concentrating on the word and your breathing until a feeling of relaxation occurs. Another example is to focus exclusively on breathing. Place your hand just below your naval so you can feel the rise and fall of your breathing. Breathe in deeply and slowly, counting to three. Hold it for a count of three and then breathe out for another three counts. Continue to do this until feeling relaxed.
Hypnosis is a useful technique for those who want to control pain but cannot tolerate anesthesia due to health reasons. It is also successful for those who cannot tolerate needles. Self-hypnosis is possible with the guide of a hypnotherapist.
These techniques are just suggestions for extras ways to help control anxiety experienced during a visit to the dentist. They may not work for everyone. For those who experience extreme dental anxiety, a licensed therapist may be a better option.
Source: Dental Health for Adults: A Guide to Protecting Your Teeth and Gums. Copyright © by Harvard University. All rights reserved.
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Dental Did You Know
Smokeless Tobacco Use
While some may believe smokeless tobacco is healthier than cigarettes or other tobacco products, the American Cancer Society estimated that more than 39,000 people were diagnosed with oral cancer in 2011. Nearly 8,000 died of the disease in the same year. Smokeless tobacco use is thought to be behind many of these oral cancer cases.
Shockingly, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s 2009 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Study found that 11% of males in high school are using smokeless tobacco and four percent of male middle school students.
Believed to be a big influence in young men picking up the habit, Major League Baseball has begun to phase out the tobacco product, no longer allowing players to chew it or carry it in their uniforms while fans are in the stands. Follow the link below for the news release about the cessation of smokeless tobacco in MLB players.
http://www.deltadental.com/Public/NewsMedia/NewsReleaseMLBToQuitTheSpit201204.jsp
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Tobacco Use Among Middle and High School Students-United States, 2000-2009. MOrbidity and Mortality Weekly Report 2010;59(33):1063-8
Source: Delta dental encourages major league baseball to quit the spit (tobacco) (2011, April 23). In Delta Dental. Retrieved June 20, 2012 from http://www.deltadental.com/Public/NewsMedia/NewsReleaseMLBToQuitTheSpit201204.jsp
R. Eric Emery, DDSSmile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
While some may believe smokeless tobacco is healthier than cigarettes or other tobacco products, the American Cancer Society estimated that more than 39,000 people were diagnosed with oral cancer in 2011. Nearly 8,000 died of the disease in the same year. Smokeless tobacco use is thought to be behind many of these oral cancer cases.
Shockingly, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s 2009 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Study found that 11% of males in high school are using smokeless tobacco and four percent of male middle school students.
Believed to be a big influence in young men picking up the habit, Major League Baseball has begun to phase out the tobacco product, no longer allowing players to chew it or carry it in their uniforms while fans are in the stands. Follow the link below for the news release about the cessation of smokeless tobacco in MLB players.
http://www.deltadental.com/Public/NewsMedia/NewsReleaseMLBToQuitTheSpit201204.jsp
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Tobacco Use Among Middle and High School Students-United States, 2000-2009. MOrbidity and Mortality Weekly Report 2010;59(33):1063-8
Source: Delta dental encourages major league baseball to quit the spit (tobacco) (2011, April 23). In Delta Dental. Retrieved June 20, 2012 from http://www.deltadental.com/Public/NewsMedia/NewsReleaseMLBToQuitTheSpit201204.jsp
R. Eric Emery, DDSSmile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
News You Can Use
Secondhand Smoke and Periodontal Disease: Atherosclerosis Risk in Community Study
Did you know that secondhand smoke can increase your chances for periodontal disease? The American Journal of Public Health recently published a study comparing periodontal health of nonsmokers with little to no exposure to second hand smoke and nonsmokers with a few hours of exposure to secondhand smoke daily. Those exposed to some amount of secondhand smoke had a higher prevalence of severe periodontitis. Check out the link below for the full article.Source: Sanders, A. E., Slade, G. D., Beck, J. D., & Ágústsdóttir, H. (2011, December). Secondhand smoke and periodontal disease: Atherosclerosis risk in communities study. American Journal of Public Health, 101(S1), 336-346. doi:10.2105/AJPH.2010.300069
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
Monday, June 18, 2012
News You Can Use
Sports, Energy Drinks are Causing Irreversible Damage to Teeth
Source: Sports, energy drinks are causing irreversible damage to teeth (2012, June 13). In Colgate Oral And Dental Health Resource Center. Retrieved June 18, 2012, from http://www.colgate.com/app/CP/US/EN/OC/Information/Articles/ADA/2012/article/ADA-06-Sports-energy-drinks-are-causing-irreversible-damage-to-teeth.cvsp
A recent study on the increase in the consumption of energy and sports drinks is causing concern within the dental community. These drinks contain high acidity which erodes the enamel on the teeth leaving it more open to decay, sensitivity, and other dental problems. The age group who tend to consume the most sports drinks is adolescents. Considering the irreversible damage that these drinks can cause, it is even more alarming that younger generations are the ones consuming them the most. For more information on this, follow the link to the full article below:
Source: Sports, energy drinks are causing irreversible damage to teeth (2012, June 13). In Colgate Oral And Dental Health Resource Center. Retrieved June 18, 2012, from http://www.colgate.com/app/CP/US/EN/OC/Information/Articles/ADA/2012/article/ADA-06-Sports-energy-drinks-are-causing-irreversible-damage-to-teeth.cvsp
R. Eric Emery, DDS
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
(314)821-7100
Like us on Facebook!
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