Dental Did You Know

The History of False Teeth

Presently, false teeth in the form of bridges or dentures are generally indistinguishable from real teeth. Modern technology has allowed dentists to offer an aesthetically pleasing alternative to tooth loss.  This wasn't always the case, though, as many of us have heard of the famous wooden teeth worn by President George Washington. His teeth were not actually made of wood because the corrosive properties of saliva would almost immediately begin to breakdown the wood. In fact, his denture consisted of mostly teeth extracted from human and animal corpses.

George Washington's False Teeth

Even before George Washington's time, dentists began attempting aesthetic restorations.  Various ancient civilizations used ivory or bone to carve new teeth.  This procedure fell out of practice until the mid 1800's.  Damaged teeth were just extracted and gaps were left untouched.  If the tooth was necessary, silk threads or coiled wire were used to hold the new tooth in place.  Generally, old extracted teeth that were placed in the mouth rotted quickly.  Those of a higher class tended to opt for teeth made of gold, silver, or ivory.

Finally, in 1774, two Frenchman (a dentist and a pharmacist) designed a set of porcelain teeth.  This procedure was improved upon by an Italian dentist who created a porcelain tooth with a platinum pin (not unlike today's modern implants).  These teeth made it to America in 1822 where they were continually toyed with until the modern technology was invented which includes teeth made of plastic or ceramic.


Source:http://www.knowyourteeth.com/infobites/abc/article/?abc=h&iid=305&aid=1256


R. Eric Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
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Diabetes and Dental Health

Diabetes is a disease in which the body has difficulty processing sugar.  It is relatively well-known that diabetes can effect the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart as well as lower the bodies resistance to infection.  How diabetes can affect a person's oral health is not as well-known but equally important.

People with diabetes are at a greater risk of developing several oral health problems.  The most common oral health problems associated with diabetes include but are not limited to:

Periodonal (Gum) Disease

Oral Candidiasis (Fungal Infection)

Infection and Delayed Healing

Dry Mouth

While gum disease is not that uncommon in people who do not suffer from diabetes, it tends to be worse in those with diabetes due to their decreased healing ability and lowered resistance. Periodontal disease appears more often and more severe in those with diabetes.  Good home care, including daily brushing and flossing, may help to lessen the chances of periodontal disease.

Diabetes has also been associated with oral candidiasis.  Due to the lowered resistance, people with diabetes have a higher chance of getting a fungal infection (typically in the form of a yeast infection) in the mouth.  The symptoms include painful sores and difficulty swallowing.  It also may be accompanied by a metallic taste in the mouth and the feeling of a burning tongue. If you suffer from these symptoms, call the office.  An antifungal medicine may be perscribed.

Those who have diabetes may also have instances of dry mouth.  Uncontrolled diabetes occasionally appears with decreased levels of saliva.  As with all appearances of dry mouth, the chances for decay may increase.  Good home care is recommended along with the implementation of fluoride rinses or gels.  If the dryness persist, call the office as an artificial saliva or other means to moistening the mouth may be suggested.

Source: http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/d/diabetes.aspx

Source: http://www.colgate.com/app/CP/US/EN/OC/Information/Popular-Topics/Diabetes-and-Oral-Care/article/Diabetes.cvsp

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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Tooth Discoloration

Occasionally, teeth can become discolored by stains on the surface or by changes to the material of the teeth.  There are three main types of tooth discoloration, each with a different cause and treatment option.

Extrinsic Discoloration

This type of discoloration occurs on the outer layer of the tooth (known as the enamel).  It occurs when the foods we eat and drink stain the outer layer.  Beverages such as coffee, tea, and red wine are known for staining.  Smoking is another cause for staining. 

Intrinsic Discoloration

This type of discoloration occurs when the inner structure of the tooth (called dentin) becomes discolored. The tooth tends to appear yellow or brown in color.  There are several instances during which this type of discoloration occurs.  The main reasons include overexposure to too much fluoride as a child, your mother used tetracycline antibiotics during the second half of pregnancy, you ingested tetracycline antibiotics before the age of 8 years old, you had trauma to the tooth in the form of a fall when you were little creating damage to the permanent tooth, you had trauma to the permanent tooth causing internal bleeding, or you were born with a rare condition called dentinogenesis imperfecta.

Age-Related Discoloration

This type is a combination of intrinsic and extrinsic discolorations.  The dentin naturally yellows with age as the enamel thins.  The enamel thinning allows the yellow dentin to show through.  Staining also tends to get worse as we age, making the effects of coffee, tea, red wine and other staining foods increase.

There are several ways to prevent extrinsic discoloration.  Refraining from drinking and eating staining foods will aid some.  Brushing after every meal and flossing once a day will also decrease the amount of staining that occurs.  Regular cleanings from a hygienist may remove some of the deeper staining. Intrinsic discoloration may be avoided in children by avoiding overexposure to fluoride and not administered tetracycline antibiotics before the age of 8. In adults, an intrinsically discolored tooth may be due to damage to the root of the tooth.  A visit to the office for a dental radiograph of the tooth may give a more definitive diagnosis.

One of the most popular ways for removing extrinsic discoloration is the implementation of bleaching products.  This will only help extrinsically discolored teeth as it removes stains on the enamel and will not affect the dentin. Smile Station Dental offers a reward program for patients who keep up with their regular hygiene appointments called the White for Life program.  Patients that come in at regular intervals receive free whitening trays specifically made for their teeth and free bleach tubes to whiten to their desired shade in the comfort of their own home.  Ask your hygienist on your next visit for more information on this reward program.

Source: Tooth Discolorization - Common Causes of Tooth Discolorization

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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July is National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month!

July supports a spotlight for the awareness and prevention of cleft and craniofacial defects and conditions. A cleft lip is a birth defect in which the parts of the face that normally seal together before birth remain separated. This cleft can also occur in the palate, called a cleft palate.  A cleft lip and palate can occur individually or in unison in the same person. They normally occur early on in pregnancy and can be genetic as well as due to maternal environmental exposure.

A cleft lip or palate can influence the appearance of the face and create difficulties in speech and eating.  Due to the connection between the ear and throat, a cleft lip or palate can cause ear infections.  Both can be corrected through surgery, which is normally done between three and six months of age.

During July, National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention month is observed by an alliance of organizations that offer education and support services related to cleft and craniofacial conditions.  More information on this observance can be found at the link below:

http://nccapm.org/

Source: http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/c/cleft-lip-palate.aspx

Source: http://www.colgate.com/app/CP/US/EN/OC/Information/Articles/ADA/2012/article/ADA-07-Cleft-craniofacial-conditions-focus-of-July-observation.cvsp


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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Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Stress is a common occurrence in our society. Few people know that stress can manifest itself physically through teeth grinding, called bruxism, and occurs generally while we sleep. Not only can it be caused by stress, but can occur as a result of a sleep disorder, an abnormal bite, or missing/crooked teeth.

When a person is a bruxer, they grind their teeth or clench their jaw while sleeping. The symptoms of this include headaches and a sore jaw. Bruxism can have adverse effects for oral health. Grinding the teeth can break the teeth down, creating painful and/or loose teeth. It also degrades the enamel on the teeth, opening them up to decay and possible fracture.

Smile Station Dental can have a night guard created specifically for your mouth that will protect your teeth while you sleep. This mouth guard cannot stop the bruxing and stress management may be suggested to approach the overarching issue from a different angle.
　

Source: Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) - American Dental Association - ADA.org


R. Eric Emery
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)-821-7100
smilestationdental.com
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Dental Did You Know

Fun Uses for Floss!

Although traditionally floss is utilized to clean between teeth, there are many other useful applications for this durable thread. I've listed a few below:

1. Fishing line - the tough fiber of the floss is resistant to breaking
2. String popcorn for Holiday decorations
3. Reattach a broken bra strap
4. A belt for pants in a pinch
5. Silence a leaky faucet - tie a string around the top and the water drops will follow the floss to the sink, eliminating the annoying drip sound
6. Support climbing plants - use floss to tie the plant to the trellis
7. Cut soft cheese or cake - be sure to use the unflavored floss!
8. Make homemade jewelry
9. Use it as a hair tie - if you don't have a rubber band, floss makes a great hair tie in an emergency
10. Improvised ruler - measure out 12 inches of floss for a handy and flexible ruler

Of course, the best use for floss is including it daily in your oral health routine but these are a few reasons it might be handy to keep floss around the house. For more fun uses for floss, follow the link below!


http://voices.yahoo.com/useful-things-dental-floss-3075314.html?cat=6


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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Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

Healthy oral habits generally start at a young age. Teeth can start to decay as soon as they come in which may be around six months. Infant tooth decay is generally referred to as baby bottle tooth decay and tends to appear in the upper front teeth. If caught early, the decay may be stopped but in severe cases, the teeth may need to be removed. A child’s deciduous (or baby) teeth are important for the permanent teeth to develop and come in correctly. If the child has to have a primary tooth taken out, that space may be taken up by the surrounding teeth which leads to overcrowding when the permanent teeth come in.

One of the most common causes of this decay is prolonged exposure to a liquid containing sugar, such as fruit juices, milk, and even breast milk. In most cases, the decay occurs because the child is put to sleep with a bottle of liquid. The sugary liquid pools around the teeth, allowing the bacteria in the mouth to flourish.

This decay is almost completely preventable. Wiping the gums down with a clean, soft cloth after feeding and brushing the teeth with a child’s size toothbrush when they start to emerge are recommended. Filling bottles with formula, milk, or breast milk instead of sugar water, juices, and soft drinks is also recommended. Finally, encouraging the child to drink from a cup by the age of one and not allowing prolonged use of the training (sippy) cup will also help reduce the appearance of baby bottle tooth decay
　

Source: Baby Bottle Tooth Decay - 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
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Dental Did You Know

Toothbrush Trivia!

The earliest toothbrush on record was discovered in Chinese literature around 1600 AD. The bristles of this brush were taken from the necks and shoulders of pigs.

The first modern toothbrush was created by William Addis of Clerkenwald, England around 1734.

The first electric toothbrush was not introduced until over 200 years later in 1939.


Source: Dental Tips and Trivia


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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Mouth Sores

Many people occasionally suffer from mouth sores. I’d like to use this space to discuss the different types and the remedies that can be utilized for each. Canker sores and cold sores are the most common types of mouth sores. I will outline each in detail below.

Canker Sore
A canker sore is characterized as a small ulcer with a white or gray base and a red boarder. They appear inside the mouth and are not contagious. They are thought to be due to immune system problems, triggered by a viral infection, fatigue, stress, and even allergies. The best way to treat a canker sore is the over-the-counter topical anesthetics (follow instructions for use on the package) or antimicrobial mouth rinses (follow instructions for use on the package). Abstaining from eating hot or spicy foods is also recommended. For more information on tips for canker sores, click on the emergency dental tips tab above. If the sore persists for more than a week, contact the office.

Cold Sore
A cold sore is a fever blister that appears outside the mouth, generally around the lips, under the nose, and on the chin. They are very contagious and occur due to the herpes simplex virus type 1. These sores can appear at any time. We can prescribe antiviral medication to speed the healing.

Other types of common sores include leukoplakia and candidiasis. If a sore appears that does not fit the description above, contact the office for more information.


Source: Canker Sores, Cold Sores & Common Mouth Sores - 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
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New Electric Toothbrush

At Smile Station Dental, we are always striving for better patient education and prevention of dental problems.  To help us do this, we are now selling the Oral-B Triumph electric toothbrush in our office.  Not only will you get a great price on the product but you will receive one of the best electric toothbrushes on the market. 

 The package includes the electric toothbrush, charger, and a wireless smart guide system.  This smart guide system gives the user feedback as they brush, aiding them in brushing better.  It times how long the user brushes and signals every 30 seconds, telling the user to switch to the next quadrant which ensures a more even cleaning.  It also lights up and stops if the user is brushing too hard, helping the user to understand what pressure is appropriate (as brushing too hard can be damaging to the teeth). 



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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Dental Did You Know

Flossing

If you do not floss, you miss cleaning about 35% of your tooth surfaces.

More dental problems are caused by inadequate flossing than any other activity.

90% of the general population once they reach the age of 35 has some form of gum disease. Proper daily flossing and brushing would dramatically reduce this.

In North American alone, over three million miles of floss is purchased over the course of a year


Source: http://www.advanticabenefits.com/ResourceCenter/facts.aspx


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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FDA Warns Against Using Benzocaine Products on Children Under Two

The Food and Drug Administration recently released a warning against using oral products that contain benzocaine on children under the age of two.  Most parents attempt to make teething easier on their toddlers by using gels or sprays that contain an anesthetic but using the wrong products could have serious side effects.  The FDA found that benzocaine, the anesthetic commonly found in most oral gels, is associated with a rare but serious condition called methemoglobinemia.  To simplify, methemoglobinemia is a disorder where the blood cannot carry as much oxygen and can be serious and sometimes fatal.  The disorder can occur in adults and children over two but is extremely rare.  It is much more common in children under the age of two.

Many of the over-the-counter gels specifically state that they are not to be used in children under two.  The American Dental Association approves of two oral gels but both are not to be used in children under two as well.  Only products specifically aimed at reducing teething pain should be used on toddlers.  I also recommend the teething toys (especially the ones that can be frozen as they offer the most relief) and children's Tylenol (follow the label for dosing instructions) to help soothe the pains associated with teething.


Source: Dental News - Dental Care Concerns - MouthHealthy


R. Eric Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
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Amalgam Versus Composite Restorations

Two of the most popular materials used for filling restorations include amalgam and composite.  I would like to take the time during this post to outline some of the characteristics of each material. 

Dental Amalgam is a stable alloy made up of a combination of silver, mercury, tin, copper, and possibly other metals.  It has been a popular restorative material for some years now as it is durable, easy to use, and resistant to wear.  They can withstand a lot of chewing and therefore are used more commonly on posterior molars.  Some of the disadvantages of amalgam include the silver color, which is more noticable in the tooth, as well as the sensitivity to hot/cold.  The metal filling might expand and contract with hot and cold foods, causing temporary discomfort.

Dental Composite is a mixture of a quartz filler with a resin base with the result being a more tooth colored restoration.  The composite restoration is durable and resistant to fracture.  The dentist also does not need to remove as much of the natural tooth therefore the resulting restoration is smaller than with amalgam.  Composite restorations are also bonded directly to the tooth as compared to amalgam restorations that are a mechanical retention.

Recently, there has been a concern about the fact that amalgam restorations contain mercury.  While the mercury level is minimal and it has not scientifically been found to be a health concern, it is continually brought up and revisited. 

Here at Smile Station Dental, we use primarily composite to complete restorations.  One of the main reasons is that the metals in the amalgam restorations expand and contract with hot and cold temperatures leading to more spontaneous fractures of the tooth while composite expands and contracts as a normal tooth would.  Our experience has been that most people prefer the appearance of composite over more noticeable metal restorations.


Source: Amalgam (Dental Filling Options) - 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
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