Frequently Asked Questions: Who is a Dentist?
Dentists are medical professionals that specialize in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral healthcare concerns. They receive at least 8 years of post-secondary schooling and obtain either a DDS or DMD degree (for a description of these degrees, please see the previous post).
Before entering dental school, dental students have completed a Bachelors of Science degree or an equivalent and passed a rigorous admissions exam called the DAT (Dental Admissions Test).
Dental school itself is very similar to medical schools with the first two years curriculum being essentially the same. Dental students complete biomedical science courses, including: histology, anatomy, biochemistry, microbiology, immunology, physiology, and pathology. Dentists take the same courses as medical students during this period but receive information specific to the head and neck area, ultimately receiving more specialized training in this area than a medical student. The second two years of dental training focuses on clinical practice. After earning their dental degree, dentists must pass a rigorous national written exam and a state licensing exam to be able to practice. The license requires that dentists meet continuing education requirements to keep them up to date on the latest developments in the field.
A dentist's education and expertise extends beyond a patient's teeth and gums. Areas covered by dentists include the muscles of the head, neck, and jaw, the salivary glands, the tongue, and the nervous system in the head and neck. Part of a routine dental check-up includes an exam by the dentist during which the dentist looks at the teeth and gums but also checks for swelling, lumps, discolorations, or ulcerations in and around the mouth. This examination allows for early diagnosis of diseases, screenings for oral cancer, and identification of other possible health concerns that manifest in the whole body.
Source: http://www.ada.org/en/about-the-ada/dentists-doctors-of-oral-health
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
Thursday, May 28, 2015
Tuesday, May 26, 2015
News You Can Use
Frequently Asked Questions: What is Dentistry?
For the next few posts, I thought I would touch on some frequently asked (or more regularly, frequently thought) questions that patients may have. Many of these questions are pretty basic but may help you to better understand why seeing a dentist on a regular basis, along with routine oral hygiene, is important.
The first question is: What is dentistry? Dentistry is the study, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, disorders, and other conditions in the oral cavity. Dentistry is not limited to the mouth but includes the teeth, gums, jaw, and surrounding tissue. It is becoming widely understood that good oral hygiene is necessary for good overall health, making dentistry increasingly important.
Dentistry is typically practiced in a team approach, promoting continuity of care in a setting that is comprehensive, convenient, efficient, and cost-effective. The dental team includes the dentists, dental assistants, dental hygienists, and lab technicians. Dentists have either a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or DMD (Doctor of Medical Dentistry) degree that indicates their completion of at least 4 years of post-undergraduate education at an ADA (American Dental Association) accredited institution.
The next post in this series will include information on what a dentist is and what exactly they do.
Source: http://www.ada.org/en/about-the-ada/dentists-doctors-of-oral-health
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
For the next few posts, I thought I would touch on some frequently asked (or more regularly, frequently thought) questions that patients may have. Many of these questions are pretty basic but may help you to better understand why seeing a dentist on a regular basis, along with routine oral hygiene, is important.
The first question is: What is dentistry? Dentistry is the study, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, disorders, and other conditions in the oral cavity. Dentistry is not limited to the mouth but includes the teeth, gums, jaw, and surrounding tissue. It is becoming widely understood that good oral hygiene is necessary for good overall health, making dentistry increasingly important.
Dentistry is typically practiced in a team approach, promoting continuity of care in a setting that is comprehensive, convenient, efficient, and cost-effective. The dental team includes the dentists, dental assistants, dental hygienists, and lab technicians. Dentists have either a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or DMD (Doctor of Medical Dentistry) degree that indicates their completion of at least 4 years of post-undergraduate education at an ADA (American Dental Association) accredited institution.
The next post in this series will include information on what a dentist is and what exactly they do.
Source: http://www.ada.org/en/about-the-ada/dentists-doctors-of-oral-health
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
Thursday, April 16, 2015
Dental Did You Know
Tooth Sensitivity vs. Gum Sensitivity
Sensitivity in the mouth can be quite painful but the cause of the sensitivity depends on where exactly in the mouth it occurs. I've outlined some of the symptoms and causes of two types of sensitivities below.
Gum Sensitivity
Gum sensitivity is irritation stemming from the gums which is typically felt at or below the gum line (where the teeth emerge from the gums). It is usually indicative of gingivitis which is the early stage of gum disease. Symptoms of gingivitis are swollen, red gums that easily bleed and bad breath. Advanced gingivitis (also called periodontal disease) may be accompanied by receding gums where the gum tissue begins to pull away from the teeth.
Gingivitis and other gum sensitivity occurs due to poor oral health. Plaque is the build up of bacteria and other microorganisms that, if not removed through brushing and flossing, causes gum irritation. I have previously blogged on ways to reduce plaque, which can be found here. Other causes of gingivitis may include diabetes, pregnancy, smoking, and crooked teeth.
Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity may be experienced in several ways. You may feel pain when brushing your teeth, eating/drinking something cold, or when you eat/drink something hot, acidic, or sweet. Tooth sensitivity may be due to gum disease but it could also be due to a variety of other things such as: fractured tooth, worn tooth enamel, exposed dentin, receding gums, cavities, and loose fillings. Grinding your teeth (called bruxism) or brushing too hard may also cause tooth sensitivity. Seeing your dentist is the best way to identify the cause and work on a treatment for tooth sensitivity.
Source:http://www.colgate.com/app/CP/US/EN/OC/Information/Articles/ColgateNewandNow/Community/2015/April/article/SW-281474979387236.cvsp
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
Sensitivity in the mouth can be quite painful but the cause of the sensitivity depends on where exactly in the mouth it occurs. I've outlined some of the symptoms and causes of two types of sensitivities below.
Gum Sensitivity
Gum sensitivity is irritation stemming from the gums which is typically felt at or below the gum line (where the teeth emerge from the gums). It is usually indicative of gingivitis which is the early stage of gum disease. Symptoms of gingivitis are swollen, red gums that easily bleed and bad breath. Advanced gingivitis (also called periodontal disease) may be accompanied by receding gums where the gum tissue begins to pull away from the teeth.
Gingivitis and other gum sensitivity occurs due to poor oral health. Plaque is the build up of bacteria and other microorganisms that, if not removed through brushing and flossing, causes gum irritation. I have previously blogged on ways to reduce plaque, which can be found here. Other causes of gingivitis may include diabetes, pregnancy, smoking, and crooked teeth.
Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity may be experienced in several ways. You may feel pain when brushing your teeth, eating/drinking something cold, or when you eat/drink something hot, acidic, or sweet. Tooth sensitivity may be due to gum disease but it could also be due to a variety of other things such as: fractured tooth, worn tooth enamel, exposed dentin, receding gums, cavities, and loose fillings. Grinding your teeth (called bruxism) or brushing too hard may also cause tooth sensitivity. Seeing your dentist is the best way to identify the cause and work on a treatment for tooth sensitivity.
Source:http://www.colgate.com/app/CP/US/EN/OC/Information/Articles/ColgateNewandNow/Community/2015/April/article/SW-281474979387236.cvsp
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. 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, March 30, 2015
News You Can Use
Dogs Know a Smile When They See One
A recent study from the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna found that dogs can differentiate between angry and happy faces when shown photos on a touchscreen.
To account for the possibility of the dogs choosing faces based off of conspicuous differences, such as teeth or frownlines, the researchers split the pictures horizontally so the dogs only saw either the area around the mouth or the eyes.
Most dogs were able to differentiate between happy and angry faces, even in face halves that were not shown to the dogs during training or ones in which a novel mood was indicated.
The authors of the study hypothesized that dogs draw on their memory for this exercise, pulling from stored images of facial expressions they had seen before. They supposed that dogs with limited human interaction would perform worse on this task or could not solve it at all.
Source:http://www.colgate.com/app/CP/US/EN/OC/Information/Articles/ADA/2015/article/ADA-03-dogs-know-a-smile-when-they-see-one.cvsp
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd. Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
A recent study from the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna found that dogs can differentiate between angry and happy faces when shown photos on a touchscreen.
To account for the possibility of the dogs choosing faces based off of conspicuous differences, such as teeth or frownlines, the researchers split the pictures horizontally so the dogs only saw either the area around the mouth or the eyes.
Most dogs were able to differentiate between happy and angry faces, even in face halves that were not shown to the dogs during training or ones in which a novel mood was indicated.
The authors of the study hypothesized that dogs draw on their memory for this exercise, pulling from stored images of facial expressions they had seen before. They supposed that dogs with limited human interaction would perform worse on this task or could not solve it at all.
Source:http://www.colgate.com/app/CP/US/EN/OC/Information/Articles/ADA/2015/article/ADA-03-dogs-know-a-smile-when-they-see-one.cvsp
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. 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, March 23, 2015
Dental Did You Know
The Benefit of Regular Dental Care
Going to the dentist regularly, mixed with brushing twice a day and flossing once, can really add up to big savings in the long run. Regular oral care decreases the chances of needing expensive restorative procedures. The infographic below outlines what is ideal for good oral care versus what most people actually do.
Going to the dentist regularly, mixed with brushing twice a day and flossing once, can really add up to big savings in the long run. Regular oral care decreases the chances of needing expensive restorative procedures. The infographic below outlines what is ideal for good oral care versus what most people actually do.
Source: DentalCareAlliance.net
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
Like us on Facebook!
Monday, February 9, 2015
News You Can Use
Flabby Gums are Worse than Flabby Abs
Since I recently wrote about the connection between gum disease and oral cancer, I thought I'd write a little about the assessment of gum health during routine hygiene appointments. Part of a regular dental visit includes the dentist reading off a set of numbers while pointing at your teeth.
That assessment is a quick check of gum health and ranges from 1 mm to 9 mm. Teeth with a reading between 1 and 3 mm is healthy, 4 mm are a warning, and anything over 5 mm is clinically significant. The millimeter reading refers to the space, called pocket, between the gum and the tooth/root. The larger the pocket, the more dental attention the mouth may need as the pocket is likely to catch food particles that can lead to inflammation and infection.
If the dentist finds teeth with a reading above 4 mm, they will normally recommend a deeper cleaning to help alleviate the possible infection in hopes of leading to healing. Additionally, it may be recommended that the patient come in for regular check-ups and cleanings every three months until the gum pockets have improved.
Gum disease and tooth decay cause up to 90% of tooth loss, according to the American Dental Association. Although it is common, it is easily preventable by regular brushing and flossing as well as regular dental exams. A few minutes of brushing and flossing a day can save hours of time needed for more intense dental treatment as well as the expenses associated with gum disease and tooth loss.
Source: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/01/150126124443.htm
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
Since I recently wrote about the connection between gum disease and oral cancer, I thought I'd write a little about the assessment of gum health during routine hygiene appointments. Part of a regular dental visit includes the dentist reading off a set of numbers while pointing at your teeth.
That assessment is a quick check of gum health and ranges from 1 mm to 9 mm. Teeth with a reading between 1 and 3 mm is healthy, 4 mm are a warning, and anything over 5 mm is clinically significant. The millimeter reading refers to the space, called pocket, between the gum and the tooth/root. The larger the pocket, the more dental attention the mouth may need as the pocket is likely to catch food particles that can lead to inflammation and infection.
If the dentist finds teeth with a reading above 4 mm, they will normally recommend a deeper cleaning to help alleviate the possible infection in hopes of leading to healing. Additionally, it may be recommended that the patient come in for regular check-ups and cleanings every three months until the gum pockets have improved.
Gum disease and tooth decay cause up to 90% of tooth loss, according to the American Dental Association. Although it is common, it is easily preventable by regular brushing and flossing as well as regular dental exams. A few minutes of brushing and flossing a day can save hours of time needed for more intense dental treatment as well as the expenses associated with gum disease and tooth loss.
Source: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/01/150126124443.htm
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. 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, February 2, 2015
News You Can Use
Bacteria-Causing Gum Disease May Lead to Oral Cancer Growth
A new study conducted by Case Western Reserve University illustrates a connection between the bacteria that causes gum disease and Kaposi sarcoma-related lesions and tumors. The researchers investigated how the fatty acids produced as a byproduct of the gum disease-causing bacteria lead to the growth of cancerous lesions.
The goal of the study was to identify who tends to develop this cancer from those that don't develop it. The participants with better overall oral health tended to have less of the fatty acid byproducts. Additionally, the researchers concluded that the byproducts impacted the replication of the Kaposi sarcoma lesions. The body is prevented from stopping the growth of the Kaposi sarcoma cells when there are higher amounts of fatty acids.
This research illustrates another connection between gum disease and overall health issues. Those that have already been established include the link between gum disease and rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and other ailments. Good oral health habits are recommended for both overall and oral health. The full research study can be found in the Journal of Virology.
Source: http://dentistrytoday.com/todays-dental-news/9944-bacteria-causing-gum-disease-may-lead-to-oral-cancer-growth
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
A new study conducted by Case Western Reserve University illustrates a connection between the bacteria that causes gum disease and Kaposi sarcoma-related lesions and tumors. The researchers investigated how the fatty acids produced as a byproduct of the gum disease-causing bacteria lead to the growth of cancerous lesions.
The goal of the study was to identify who tends to develop this cancer from those that don't develop it. The participants with better overall oral health tended to have less of the fatty acid byproducts. Additionally, the researchers concluded that the byproducts impacted the replication of the Kaposi sarcoma lesions. The body is prevented from stopping the growth of the Kaposi sarcoma cells when there are higher amounts of fatty acids.
This research illustrates another connection between gum disease and overall health issues. Those that have already been established include the link between gum disease and rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and other ailments. Good oral health habits are recommended for both overall and oral health. The full research study can be found in the Journal of Virology.
Source: http://dentistrytoday.com/todays-dental-news/9944-bacteria-causing-gum-disease-may-lead-to-oral-cancer-growth
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. 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, January 14, 2015
Dental Did You Know
How Not to Brush Your Teeth
I recently posted on how bad it is to skip brushing your teeth. In support of that post, this fun infographic provides more information on the most common mistakes people make when brushing their teeth.
Source: http://dailyinfographic.com/how-not-to-brush-your-teeth-infographic
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
I recently posted on how bad it is to skip brushing your teeth. In support of that post, this fun infographic provides more information on the most common mistakes people make when brushing their teeth.
Source: http://dailyinfographic.com/how-not-to-brush-your-teeth-infographic
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. 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, January 12, 2015
News You Can Use
The Vicious Cycle of Dental Anxiety
In 2007, Australian researchers looked into the effect of dental anxiety on dental visits with the hypothesis being that the more anxiety a person exhibits about going to the dentist, the less often that person will go.
The authors of the study surveyed over 6,000 people ages 16 and older from all over Australia while accounting for age and sex. The results indicated that there is, in fact, a self-perpetuating relationship between dental anxiety and reduced number of dental visits.
Those who exhibited higher anxiety regarding dental visits tended to put off going to the dentist for regular check-ups which resulted in more emergency visits when the patient was in pain or had another oral health issue (which is referred to as symptom-driven treatment). Overall all, 29.2% of people with dental anxiety reported delaying regular dental visits, poor overall oral health, and increased likelihood of symptom-driven treatment as compared to the 11.6% of people who did the same but reported no dental anxiety.
The tendency for those to delay regular dental visits because of dental anxiety may perpetuate that fear of the dentist as putting off check-ups leads may increase the work that needs to be done at each appointment. By going regularly, patients may actually decrease the more expensive (and possibly anxiety-provoking) procedures.
Dental anxiety is a very real struggle for many people. I have blogged before on some tips to reduce dental anxiety as well as alternative therapies for dental fear.
Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1784087/?tool=pmcentrez
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd., Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
In 2007, Australian researchers looked into the effect of dental anxiety on dental visits with the hypothesis being that the more anxiety a person exhibits about going to the dentist, the less often that person will go.
The authors of the study surveyed over 6,000 people ages 16 and older from all over Australia while accounting for age and sex. The results indicated that there is, in fact, a self-perpetuating relationship between dental anxiety and reduced number of dental visits.
Those who exhibited higher anxiety regarding dental visits tended to put off going to the dentist for regular check-ups which resulted in more emergency visits when the patient was in pain or had another oral health issue (which is referred to as symptom-driven treatment). Overall all, 29.2% of people with dental anxiety reported delaying regular dental visits, poor overall oral health, and increased likelihood of symptom-driven treatment as compared to the 11.6% of people who did the same but reported no dental anxiety.
The tendency for those to delay regular dental visits because of dental anxiety may perpetuate that fear of the dentist as putting off check-ups leads may increase the work that needs to be done at each appointment. By going regularly, patients may actually decrease the more expensive (and possibly anxiety-provoking) procedures.
Dental anxiety is a very real struggle for many people. I have blogged before on some tips to reduce dental anxiety as well as alternative therapies for dental fear.
Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1784087/?tool=pmcentrez
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. 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, January 7, 2015
News You Can Use
The Oral-Systemic Connection
Continuing the topic of improved oral health for the new year, it is important to note that good oral health is not just for keeping your teeth in good shape but also for good overall health.
Recent research suggests that the conditions in our mouths are significantly related to different diseases and health problems throughout the body. For example, gingivitis (later called periodontal or gum disease when advanced) is caused by bacteria that then has access to the bloodstream when the gums bleed. That bacteria, among others in the mouth, has been linked to several systemic health concerns, such as:
I have posted on the oral-systemic connection before and how it relates to diabetes, dementia, rheumatoid arthritis, and other health concerns. While more research is needed and currently being done to fully understand the oral-systemic connection, previous studies strongly suggest there is a potent relationship between oral health and overall health.
Source: http://www.dentaleconomics.com/articles/print/volume-101/issue-6/practice/the-oral-systemic-connection.html
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
Continuing the topic of improved oral health for the new year, it is important to note that good oral health is not just for keeping your teeth in good shape but also for good overall health.
Recent research suggests that the conditions in our mouths are significantly related to different diseases and health problems throughout the body. For example, gingivitis (later called periodontal or gum disease when advanced) is caused by bacteria that then has access to the bloodstream when the gums bleed. That bacteria, among others in the mouth, has been linked to several systemic health concerns, such as:
- Diabetes
- Heart Disease
- Stroke
- Osteoporosis
I have posted on the oral-systemic connection before and how it relates to diabetes, dementia, rheumatoid arthritis, and other health concerns. While more research is needed and currently being done to fully understand the oral-systemic connection, previous studies strongly suggest there is a potent relationship between oral health and overall health.
Source: http://www.dentaleconomics.com/articles/print/volume-101/issue-6/practice/the-oral-systemic-connection.html
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. 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, January 5, 2015
Dental Did You Know
Falling Asleep Without Brushing Your Teeth
Happy New Year! While brushing your teeth may feel like a chore, its important to start the year off right with a routine of brushing twice a day. Skipping even one brushing can be detrimental as brushing helps disturb the bacteria on teeth that becomes cavity-causing plaque. The article posted below discusses in more detail how bad it may be to miss brushing your teeth:
Teeth brushing is one of the best ways to ensure you start the new year off right. Dental professionals recommend using a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste twice a day, with flossing once a day.
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
Like us on Facebook!
Monday, December 1, 2014
News You Can Use
A Beautiful Smile for the Holidays
Give the gift of a healthy smile this holiday season! Smile Station Dental is now selling the Oral-B Professional Care Smart Series 5000. Not only will you get a great price on the product but you will receive one of the best electric toothbrushes on the market.
Electronic toothbrushes are a great way to ensure a better daily cleaning! 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).
More information on the brush can be found at Oral-B's website here.
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!
Give the gift of a healthy smile this holiday season! Smile Station Dental is now selling the Oral-B Professional Care Smart Series 5000. Not only will you get a great price on the product but you will receive one of the best electric toothbrushes on the market.
Electronic toothbrushes are a great way to ensure a better daily cleaning! 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).
More information on the brush can be found at Oral-B's website here.
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, November 24, 2014
News You Can Use
Cosmetic Dentistry
Going to the dentist does not just have to be for your regular check up or when you have a problem. There are several options for cosmetically improving your smile. The infographic below outlines the basics and potential benefits to each method.
Going to the dentist does not just have to be for your regular check up or when you have a problem. There are several options for cosmetically improving your smile. The infographic below outlines the basics and potential benefits to each method.
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
Like us on Facebook!
Thursday, November 6, 2014
News You Can Use
Cavity Prevention in Children
A recent publication of Family Circle contained an article with a shocking statistic: The most common chronic disease among children is tooth decay. According to national reports, about half of the children in the United States have a cavity and one in eight adolescents currently have one that is untreated. Here are a few recommendations to reduce the chances of tooth decay:
1. Encourage your children to brush, recruiting help if necessary
Children are notorious for bad brushing habits. You can encourage your child to brush through one of the many popular music techniques circling the web. It may also help your child to use an electronic toothbrush. They work more plaque loose and may help your child brush longer.
2. Sugar sticks around so swish with water
It takes about twenty minutes for your mouth to breakdown and wash away sugar. Having your child drink water after eating something sugary helps with this process, especially if the sugar came from a soda or lollipop that took more than a few minutes to consume.
3. Don't share utensils
Recent studies suggest that some people just have more decay-causing bacteria than others. Sharing utensils, giving your child some food off of your utensil, or sharing water bottles or other drink vessels may help to introduce new bacteria to your child's mouth. Reducing the sharing of utensils could help make sure your child doesn't get as much exposure to decay-causing bacteria.
These techniques are a few easy ways to change habits but may make an enormous difference in cavity prevention.
Source: http://www.familycircle.com/
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
A recent publication of Family Circle contained an article with a shocking statistic: The most common chronic disease among children is tooth decay. According to national reports, about half of the children in the United States have a cavity and one in eight adolescents currently have one that is untreated. Here are a few recommendations to reduce the chances of tooth decay:
1. Encourage your children to brush, recruiting help if necessary
Children are notorious for bad brushing habits. You can encourage your child to brush through one of the many popular music techniques circling the web. It may also help your child to use an electronic toothbrush. They work more plaque loose and may help your child brush longer.
2. Sugar sticks around so swish with water
It takes about twenty minutes for your mouth to breakdown and wash away sugar. Having your child drink water after eating something sugary helps with this process, especially if the sugar came from a soda or lollipop that took more than a few minutes to consume.
3. Don't share utensils
Recent studies suggest that some people just have more decay-causing bacteria than others. Sharing utensils, giving your child some food off of your utensil, or sharing water bottles or other drink vessels may help to introduce new bacteria to your child's mouth. Reducing the sharing of utensils could help make sure your child doesn't get as much exposure to decay-causing bacteria.
These techniques are a few easy ways to change habits but may make an enormous difference in cavity prevention.
Source: http://www.familycircle.com/
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
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Monday, October 27, 2014
News You Can Use
Keeping Little Smiles Sparkling Through Halloween
Halloween, in all of its candy-filled glory, starts the season for holiday celebrations that normally include lots of food. We don't want to discourage anyone from enjoying these occasions and, in fact, have a couple of recommendations to ensure that your little ones teeth are protected through this holiday season.
The two most common childhood dental problems are tooth decay and periodontal disease, both of which are preventable. Regular oral check-ups and cleanings are recommended to ensure the future of your child's healthy smile. Especially around Halloween, it is important to consider the effect of sugary treats on children's teeth. I have blogged before on the best and worst candy for your teeth.
A couple ways to help stave off tooth decay may be to inquire about dental sealants and fluoride at your child's next visit. Dental sealants cover the grooves of your child's molars to protect the hard to reach places and make sure sugars and bacteria cannot get in. Fluoride supplements can fortify tooth enamel and remineralize teeth.
Halloween is a fun time to be a kid. We want all children to enjoy the festivities but we also want to make sure their teeth are protected for Halloweens to come. Regular dental visits, fluoride supplements, and sealants are all great ways to make sure your child's teeth are on the right track!
Source: http://bestdentistnews.com/2014/10/preventive-dentistry/
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
Halloween, in all of its candy-filled glory, starts the season for holiday celebrations that normally include lots of food. We don't want to discourage anyone from enjoying these occasions and, in fact, have a couple of recommendations to ensure that your little ones teeth are protected through this holiday season.
The two most common childhood dental problems are tooth decay and periodontal disease, both of which are preventable. Regular oral check-ups and cleanings are recommended to ensure the future of your child's healthy smile. Especially around Halloween, it is important to consider the effect of sugary treats on children's teeth. I have blogged before on the best and worst candy for your teeth.
A couple ways to help stave off tooth decay may be to inquire about dental sealants and fluoride at your child's next visit. Dental sealants cover the grooves of your child's molars to protect the hard to reach places and make sure sugars and bacteria cannot get in. Fluoride supplements can fortify tooth enamel and remineralize teeth.
Halloween is a fun time to be a kid. We want all children to enjoy the festivities but we also want to make sure their teeth are protected for Halloweens to come. Regular dental visits, fluoride supplements, and sealants are all great ways to make sure your child's teeth are on the right track!
Source: http://bestdentistnews.com/2014/10/preventive-dentistry/
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. 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, October 13, 2014
News You Can Use
Sleeping with Dentures Increases Pneumonia Risk
A recent study published in the Journal of Dental Research suggests that individuals who sleep with their dentures in their mouth are at a higher risk for pneumonia than those who remove dentures before going to sleep.
Poor oral health is a risk factor for pneumonia in older adults so the authors of this study compared 524 randomly selected seniors and analyzed them in regards to their oral health. Overall, 453 participants wore dentures and 186 wore them at night. The results indicated that those who wore dentures at night were at an increased risk for pneumonia.
The higher risk of pneumonia was related to higher risks of cognitive impairment, respiratory disease, and history of strokes. Those who wore their dentures at night were also more likely to have gum inflammation and denture plaque.
Denture wearers may want to consider removing dentures at night and soaking them in a denture cleaner or other non-abrasive cleaning solution that is safe for dentures.
Source: http://dentistrytoday.com/todays-dental-news/10697-sleeping-with-dentures-increases-pneumonia-risk
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd. Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
A recent study published in the Journal of Dental Research suggests that individuals who sleep with their dentures in their mouth are at a higher risk for pneumonia than those who remove dentures before going to sleep.
Poor oral health is a risk factor for pneumonia in older adults so the authors of this study compared 524 randomly selected seniors and analyzed them in regards to their oral health. Overall, 453 participants wore dentures and 186 wore them at night. The results indicated that those who wore dentures at night were at an increased risk for pneumonia.
The higher risk of pneumonia was related to higher risks of cognitive impairment, respiratory disease, and history of strokes. Those who wore their dentures at night were also more likely to have gum inflammation and denture plaque.
Denture wearers may want to consider removing dentures at night and soaking them in a denture cleaner or other non-abrasive cleaning solution that is safe for dentures.
Source: http://dentistrytoday.com/todays-dental-news/10697-sleeping-with-dentures-increases-pneumonia-risk
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd. Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
Thursday, October 2, 2014
News You Can Use
Dental Insurance
So many of our
patients are coming in with questions about the changing dental insurance
environment and voicing their frustrations with their dental insurance. The dental insurance environment has changed
drastically in the past two years.
Hopefully this information will help answer some questions.
Medical
versus Dental Insurance
Medical
insurance is designed to protect you in a worst-case scenario. You pay a monthly premium but tend to be
covered in case something serious comes up, such as an emergency or an
unforeseen surgery. Dental insurance is
significantly different. Instead of
having copays and monthly premiums, many dental insurance plans only cover a
percentage of certain dental procedures on top of the monthly premiums. Most plans (although not all plans are this
way) cover 100% of preventative care, such as cleanings and x-rays, 80% of
basic procedures, such as fillings and root canals, and 50% of major
procedures, such as crowns.
Additionally, dental insurance plans tend to have a yearly maximum around
$1000 - $2000 that requires the patient to pay the whole amount of procedures
done after reaching the yearly maximum.
Most dental
insurance plans cover a percentage of certain dental procedures (that
percentage being anywhere from 10% to 100% depending on the procedure and the
plan). That percentage is only covered
after the plan’s yearly deductible is met (this usually runs about $50-100 but
can be as large as $300-500 for some plans).
Most plans used to cover 100% for preventative treatment; it is now
evident that this is no longer the norm.
We are seeing more plans that have dropped their preventative coverage
to 80% and their basic coverage to 50%.
Best
Case Scenario
During a good
year, you may only need preventative care in the form of cleanings, exams, and
x-rays but you will still lose $200 by having dental insurance. Although these services are typically paid by
insurance plans, you would probably still be losing money overall by having the
insurance. For example, two hygiene
appointments for the year would amount to about $400 if you paid out of pocket
for these services. The insurance
company’s premiums for the year, without needing more than just preventative
services, would amount to about $600 alone.
Worst
Case Scenario
Now, you might
be thinking that insurance may still be worth losing $200 a year if you are covered
on the years when you need more than just a check-up. Unfortunately, that may still be untrue. Let’s consider a patient who needs two
fillings, a root canal, and a crown on top of normal, yearly cleaning
appointments. One would hope that
insurance would cover more of those services since you pay about $600 in
insurance premiums but the plan also has a yearly maximum of $1000. That means
that once you meet the $1000 max, you are stuck paying the rest completely out
of pocket.
Although you
may receive lower negotiated rates for basic and major services due to
insurance, those rates aren’t much lower than the dentist’s normal fee. For
example, if the dentist charges $150 for a filling, your insurance company may
only have negotiated the rate to $100. In this case, your exams, cleanings, x-rays,
and basic work such as the fillings would most likely utilize your insurance
yearly maximum. That leaves you to pay
the $1000-$2000 extra for the crowns and root canals, which is all on top of
the $600 in annual premiums.
Waiting
to Get Insurance or Services
It
may seem like a good idea to wait to get dental insurance until you really need
it but insurance companies have a clause for individuals who do just that. There is what is called a “waiting” or “probationary”
period where they will not cover certain services for the time period after you
get the insurance. Most plans will not
cover crowns or any other major work for at least twelve months after getting
the insurance and for some plans this also includes basic work like fillings or
root canals (which are often needed in emergency situations).
Waiting
to get the services may not be such a good idea either. Many of the situations that require a crown or
other major work are cases in which it is impossible or possibly detrimental to
your overall health to wait. For
example, if a tooth were cracked, crowning it is a way to reduce the pain it is
causing, as well as strengthen the tooth to prevent possible future fracture. If the tooth were to fracture it often times
fractures in such a way that the fracture extends up under the bone level where
it can no longer be reached and fixed, therefore the tooth has to be extracted
and then you are looking at trying to replace that tooth, which could many
anything from removable partial dentures to fixed bridges to implants, none of
which are inexpensive options. Insurance
companies know that certain services are unavoidable, hence the reason they
have the waiting periods to discourage people from getting the insurance only
when they need major work.
Closing
Thoughts
Dental
insurance is continually changing and not necessarily to the benefit of the
patient. Many individuals have begun to
see how having dental insurance may not be beneficial, but instead may cost
more money and cause more headaches.
This post is in no way intended to persuade readers to refrain from
going to the dentist but is instead to discuss the current field of dental
insurance. As always, it is recommended that individuals brush twice a day and
floss once as well as engage in other activities that help keep your oral
health on track so as to not need the more invasive dental procedures.
We, as
providers, often receive complaints about a patient’s dental insurance and the
coverage they receive for the dental treatment they need. While we will try to answer the questions to
the best of our ability, sometimes your insurance carrier is the best place to
go for an answer. If you are not happy
with the answer you receive from carrier, you should take your questions and
concerns to the Human Resources Department of your employer. Dental insurance plans and their benefits are
chosen by the employer. If the employer
does not know of coverage issues, they will not be able to select a plan that
better covers the needs of their employees,
Source:
Fontinelle, A. (2014). Should you
bite on dental insurance. In Investopedia .
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
Like us on Facebook!
Monday, September 8, 2014
Dental Did You Know
Sugar Consumption
Americans consume more than the recommended sugar intake on a daily basis. How much more we consume, on average, is not a well-known statistic. The infographic below outlines the sugar content of popular foods as well as the recommended average sugar intake for men, women, and children.
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
Like us on Facebook!
Wednesday, September 3, 2014
News You Can Use
Picking the Right Head for Your Power Toothbrush
A new study published in the Journal of Dental Hygiene suggests that the kind of head you put on your power toothbrush may influence the amount of bacteria on the brush. The results indicated that the hollow head attachment retains up to 3,000 times more bacteria on it than the solid head attachment.
Most toothbrushes retain some amount of bacteria, which is normal and has not been associated with the transmission of any systemic issues but the hollow head design for the power toothbrush is retaining significantly more bacteria. A power toothbrush can be better than a manual toothbrush but picking the right head is essential. Hollow head versus solid head is not normally labeled on the packaging but you should look for a design where the head attachment (the part that goes into the base) that is mostly solid from where it attaches to where the bristles are located.
To further reduce the amount of bacteria on your toothbrush, it is generally recommended to allow your toothbrush to dry in between uses. The common practice of putting a cap on your toothbrush does not allow for the toothbrush to dry and actually creates a good environment for bacterial growth. You can also try soaking the toothbrush in mouthwash for 20 minutes after use to help disinfect it.
Source: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/08/140828115226.htm
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
A new study published in the Journal of Dental Hygiene suggests that the kind of head you put on your power toothbrush may influence the amount of bacteria on the brush. The results indicated that the hollow head attachment retains up to 3,000 times more bacteria on it than the solid head attachment.
Most toothbrushes retain some amount of bacteria, which is normal and has not been associated with the transmission of any systemic issues but the hollow head design for the power toothbrush is retaining significantly more bacteria. A power toothbrush can be better than a manual toothbrush but picking the right head is essential. Hollow head versus solid head is not normally labeled on the packaging but you should look for a design where the head attachment (the part that goes into the base) that is mostly solid from where it attaches to where the bristles are located.
To further reduce the amount of bacteria on your toothbrush, it is generally recommended to allow your toothbrush to dry in between uses. The common practice of putting a cap on your toothbrush does not allow for the toothbrush to dry and actually creates a good environment for bacterial growth. You can also try soaking the toothbrush in mouthwash for 20 minutes after use to help disinfect it.
Source: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/08/140828115226.htm
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. 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, August 25, 2014
News You Can Use
Surviving with Sensitive Teeth
Sensitive teeth occur when the outer layer of the teeth (called enamel) is worn down and the middle layer (called dentin) is exposed. The dentin is a porous layer that, when exposed, leaves the nerve endings inside the tooth open to cold, hot, touch, and air sensations. Sensitive teeth may occur due to normal aging, injury, or grinding (also called bruxing). Improper brushing can also expose the dentin and create sensitive teeth.
After dentin is exposed, there isn't really a way to reverse the effects but there are some techniques to reduce the pain associated with sensitive teeth. A soft-bristled toothbrush and brushing more gently will help keep gums from receding further. Using toothpaste that is specially formulated for sensitive teeth may also help as it will block the nerve endings from exposure. It may take several weeks for the sensitive toothpaste to take effect. During that time, try to avoid extreme temperatures for food (extremely hot or extremely cold foods). If you have ongoing problems with teeth sensitivity, be sure to talk to you dentist about other options.
Source: http://smilestationdental.mydentalvisit.com/newsletterReader?aid=359553
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
Sensitive teeth occur when the outer layer of the teeth (called enamel) is worn down and the middle layer (called dentin) is exposed. The dentin is a porous layer that, when exposed, leaves the nerve endings inside the tooth open to cold, hot, touch, and air sensations. Sensitive teeth may occur due to normal aging, injury, or grinding (also called bruxing). Improper brushing can also expose the dentin and create sensitive teeth.
After dentin is exposed, there isn't really a way to reverse the effects but there are some techniques to reduce the pain associated with sensitive teeth. A soft-bristled toothbrush and brushing more gently will help keep gums from receding further. Using toothpaste that is specially formulated for sensitive teeth may also help as it will block the nerve endings from exposure. It may take several weeks for the sensitive toothpaste to take effect. During that time, try to avoid extreme temperatures for food (extremely hot or extremely cold foods). If you have ongoing problems with teeth sensitivity, be sure to talk to you dentist about other options.
Source: http://smilestationdental.mydentalvisit.com/newsletterReader?aid=359553
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
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