Cupcake Toothpaste, Teeth Grinding, Mouth Guards & 15 Other Dental News Items - Dec. 2015

(1) Will cupcake flavored toothpaste get your child to brush for the  recommended 2 minutes, twice a day?



(2) If you suspect that you may be grinding your teeth as you sleep, I can do a quick check-up to determine if it's true.

http://www.stuff.co.nz/life-style/well-good/teach-me/74789044/how-teethgrinding-can-harm-your-health



(3) For the most pressing medical issue facing the NFL today—head injuries—a mouthguard acts as an early warning system.

http://www.wired.com/2015/12/how-the-humble-mouthguard-will-help-football-get-safer/


(4) Candy Canes. Hot Cocoa. Gingerbread Cookies. Sweets overload this holiday season? Hermey the Elf, Dental Do Gooder, can help with that!

"Have You Been Naughty or Nice With Your Teeth?"

http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/babies-and-kids/holiday-healthy-teeth-tips



(5) Hermey the Elf shows kids how important it is to care for their teeth in these fun, holiday coloring pages.

http://www.mouthhealthykids.org/en/activity-sheets/color-with-hermey



(6) WHAT IF YOU HAD ANIMAL TEETH? takes children on a fun, informative, and imaginative journey as they explore what it would be like if their own front teeth were replaced by those of a different animal.

Featuring a dozen animals (beaver, great white shark, narwhal, elephant, rattlesnake, naked mole rat, hippopotamus, crocodile, and more), this book explores how different teeth are especially adapted for an animal's survival.

At the end of the book, children will discover why their own teeth are just right for them. And they'll also get a friendly reminder to take good care of their teeth, because they're the only teeth they'll ever have.

Each spread features a photograph of the animal using its specialized teeth on the left and a humorous illustrated image of a child using that animal's teeth on the right.

http://www.amazon.com/What-You-Had-Animal-Teeth/dp/0545484383/



(7) Using sugary mints to mask bad breath is a bad idea. I recall when you could buy little bottles of peppermint oil at any grocery store, to squirt into your mouth. I don't know why they vanished.

But here are some herbal alternatives for fresh breath, plus foods that improve your overall body pleasantness.

https://sg.style.yahoo.com/post/134710912833/25-foods-that-make-you-instantly-sexier



(8) Prevention and early detection can help avoid pain, trouble eating, difficulty speaking and school absences.

“When people are beginning to do their pediatrician checks to make sure their kids are school-ready, make sure teeth are part of it,” says pediatric dentist and American Dental Association spokesperson Dr. Mary Hayes.

http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/babies-and-kids/back-to-school



(9) Teeth from a cave in south China show that Homo sapiens reached China around 100,000 years ago — a time at which most researchers had assumed that our species had not trekked far beyond Africa.

“This is stunning, it’s major league,” says Michael Petraglia, an archaeologist at the University of Oxford, UK who was not involved in the research. “It’s one of the most important finds coming out of Asia in the last decade.”

http://www.nature.com/news/teeth-from-china-reveal-early-human-trek-out-of-africa-1.18566



(10) "Foods that are high in cellulose--a strong starchlike compound found in celery, carrots, and apples--act as natural abrasives, cleansing teeth and removing surface stains naturally," says Jeff Golub-Evans, D.D.S., a cosmetic dentist in New York City.

And greens such as spinach, broccoli, and lettuce contain mineral compounds that form a film over the teeth, so pigments from other foods can't stain.

http://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/whiten-teeth



(11) Are you making any of these mistakes with your teeth, the jewels of your mouth?

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/healthcom/20-mistakes-youre-making_b_8247584.html



(12) You may be ruining your precious teeth and not even realize it.


http://www.medicinenet.com/habits_that_wreck_your_teeth_pictures_slideshow/article.htm



(13) Why do wisdom teeth get "impacted"? What are the symptoms of an impacted wisdom tooth?

http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/oral-health/conditions/wisdom-teeth/article/impacted-tooth



(14) Your teeth connect you to life via eating and society via talking and smiling. Ever wonder why your teeth come in different shapes?

http://healthyteeth.org/different-kinds-of-teeth/



(15) People are starting to realize that neglecting dental health can bring about a disaster to their overall health.

http://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2014/09/why-dont-we-treat-teeth-like-the-rest-of-our-bodies/380703/



(16) Healthy teeth are vital to overall health. They can also be a glamour status symbol to some people.

http://nymag.com/scienceofus/2015/06/why-is-america-obsessed-perfect-teeth.html



(17) I hate to have to say it, but soda is incredibly bad news for teeth. More and more research is showing this to be true.

http://www.cosmopolitan.com/health-fitness/news/a50116/diet-coke-harms-teeth/



(18) Illinois House approves greater role for dental assistants.

http://www.rebootillinois.com/2015/12/03/editors-picks/mark-fitton/illinois-house-expands-dental-care-bids-farewell-to-frank-mautino/49732/



(19) They had to chase Burge. When they caught up with him, he had hid items he stole from the store in his pants.

They found he had steaks, a bottle of Advil PM -- and a Crest Teeth Whitening Kit.

http://wnct.com/2015/12/03/kinston-police-say-repeat-criminal-stole-teeth-whitening-kit-steaks/



(20) Diabetics have special issues with dental care. They are twice as likely to lose teeth.

http://www.cbsnews.com/news/tooth-loss-is-higher-among-people-with-diabetes/

Teeth Care for Kids VIDEO

Sit down with your kids and watch this instructional cartoon video together. It teaches children about baby teeth and the importance of teeth.

Adventures of Wiggly Tooth VIDEO about baby teeth

This cartoon video entertains as it educates your children about baby teeth falling out.

Tips on Adjusting to Your New Partial Dentures

Partials are a type of denture that do not replace all your teeth, but act as a way to preserve remaining teeth, support your jaw integrity, and make smiling and chewing a lot better.

Pulling teeth is an extreme measure that should not be taken lightly. Whenever possible, a good dentist will try to save your remaining teeth, even if you have lost quite a few.

If any dentist tells you he or she has to pull all your bottom teeth, or any other extreme and expensive procedure, warning bells should go off in your head. ALWAYS get a 2nd or 3rd opinion. I can't stress this enough.

Your new partials will feel a bit strange at first. You may even think, "What have I done? This is kind of awkward getting used to." That's normal.

You've got some new hardware in your mouth. Chewing and talking will seem slightly odd at first.

But within a very short time, you'll get used to your partial dentures, popping them in and out of your mouth, and chewing up your favorite foods like before. Plus, you'll have a lot more confidence in smiling and talking.

Here is some advice on getting used to your partials.

(1) You will have more saliva production in your mouth for a brief amount of time. This will end soon.

(2) You will probably notice that food seems to stick to the partials, making you think you've got big gobs of cuisine jammed in them. It feels that way, but there will be far less food stuck in them that it feels like. Just pop them out, rinse out your mouth and rinse the partials, then pop them back in.

When convenient, brush and floss your remaining teeth and brush the partials, too, before popping them back in.

(3) Avoid dining in restaurants for a few days or weeks. You need to get adjusted to chewing with your partials before you'll want to eat in a public place.

Also -- avoid sticky foods and foods that require a lot of strenuous chewing at first. Go with softer cuisine. Cut up small sections and take your time getting used to eating your food.

(4) Keep telling yourself, "I have modern technology in my mouth now. I will be patient. Soon it will be no big deal and everything will be back to normal."

(5) Follow all instructions from your dentist.

(6) If your partials seem to not fit right after a few days, or there's a pinching when you pop them out, tell your dentist. He or she can probably get you in quickly to make some minor adjustments to increase your comfort and perfect the fit.

(7) NEVER use toothpaste or any abrasive cleansing agent to clean your partials. A mild liquid soap or dishwashing detergent, like Dawn, will be fine.

(8) Keep your partials away from pets like dogs or cats, because they may try to chew and eat them.

(9) Rinse off and gently brush your partials in cool water, NEVER hot water.

(10) Have a rubber mat or cloth towel in the sink, under your partials, as you clean them, to cushion their fall  in case you drop them.

(11) Take your partial dentures out every night before you go to bed. This will allow your gums to get air.

(12) NEVER force your partials into place by biting down or clenching your jaws. They should slip in and out with relative ease.

(13) Wear your partials a lot, especially at first, so possible problems can be more quickly identified.

(14) Avoid bending or breaking your partials.

(15) Store them in a glass of cool water overnight.

(16) If you have a bit of difficulty speaking clearly, practice reading a book or making a speech out loud to adjust your mouth to the new hardware in it.

(17) NEVER try to adjust or repair your partials by yourself. You could end up ruining them. Have only the dentist who fitted you for them do the adjusting or repairing.

(18) Never loan your partials to another person. [Okay, this is just a joke. I hope!]

Keep these tips in mind and you'll be on your way to full satisfaction with your new partial dentures!

How the Kavo DIAGNOdent Cavity Detector Works

I'm using a new technology that finds hidden cavities before they become major problems. It's the Kavo DIAGNOdent pen. It's a good example of high tech dentistry.

Kavo explains how the cavity detector pen works:

QUOTE

"The DIAGNOdent hand-held caries detection operates at a wavelength of 655 nm. At this specific wavelength, clean healthy tooth structure exhibits little or no fluorescence, resulting in very low scale readings on the display.

However, carious tooth structure will exhibit fluorescence, proportionate to the degree of caries, resulting in elevated scale readings on the display of the DIAGNOdent, enabling the practitioner to provide a more accurate dental caries treatment plan.

An audio signal allows the operator to hear changes in the scale values. This enables the focus to be on the patient, not solely on the device."

http://www.kavousa.com/US/DIAGNOdent/Classic/Benefits.aspx

END QUOTE

You see, fluoridation of water and toothpaste has many benefits, but one downside is that tooth enamel is harder. Thus, cavity-causing bacteria is now sneaking deep down below the tooth surface, where it's much more difficult to detect.

We end up with fewer cavities, but the cavities that do occur are more secretive. They can do a lot more damage in their clandestine condition. By the time we can detect them with old fashioned methods, a lot of trouble has already been created.

Not anymore. With the Kavo DIAGNOdent cavity detector, we can find these hidden cavities and make better decisions about stained grooves in teeth. You get dental diagnostics that are far more accurate.

Kavo states: "Dentists often experience anxiety when attempting to diagnose the phenomenon known as hidden caries. A suspicious-looking tooth presents a treatment dilemma for dentists. Should the tooth be opened up? What if no caries is found? Should the tooth just be watched, or does that give caries more time to destroy the tooth's surface?"

With the high tech DIAGNOdent tool, we don't have to probe and scratch at your teeth to look for cavities, which for many patients was uncomfortable. All we do is insert the DIAGNOdent pen gently into your mouth, scan the teeth, and we're done.

No x-rays are needed in this process.

It's fast. It's safe. And it's extremely effective. The precision and reliability of cavity detection has reached a whole new level of sophistication.

Kavo states: "In a study conducted by Dr. Lussi of Berne University, Switzerland, general practitioners correctly diagnosed hidden fissure areas by visual inspection in only 57% of all cases. The same group achieved an impressive success rate of 90% with the DIAGNOdent. In fact, DIAGNOdent was far more accurate than any other method in the study including bitewing X-rays."

Early detection of cavities is an enormous benefit for patients, reducing future costs and helping to preserve teeth. The absolute last thing we want to do is pull a tooth out. Any dentist who is eager to extract a tooth is a dentist you may need to worry about. Only in extreme cases should a tooth be removed.

Kavo DIAGNOdent cavity detection can mean you keep more of your teeth. Think about how great that is.

To the best of my knowledge, and I have searched on Google for "kavo diagnodent dentists peoria il" (you can do this, too), I am one of the only dentists in the Peoria area who is using this new technology. As best I can determine, there are only a few of us using it currently.

Visiting a dentist can be somewhat uncomfortable for some people. I try my best to use patient-centered, high tech, and affordable procedures that result in the best smile you've ever had.

Children's Dental Health Week on Jack Paar Show VIDEO

Watch the President of the American Dental Association explain Children's Dental Health Week in this public service announcement. You can't stress enough the importance of teaching your kids good dental hygiene.

Hobbit Teeth, Brushing in the Dark, and other teeth news

(1)

http://www.cbc.ca/news/technology/denisovans-molars-1.3318432

Scientists have uncovered new information about the Denisovans, a mysterious group of human relatives that interbred with ancient humans in Asia.

The Denisovans had very large and unusual teeth, unlike those of humans or Neanderthals, reports an international team from Germany, Canada and Russia.

While individuals have different tooth sizes, finding two teeth this large from two different, unrelated individuals suggests "the whole group probably had very large and weird teeth."

They also likely had a very large and robust jaw to support such long tooth roots. But aside from that, we know nothing about what they looked like.



(2)

Check out this Hobbit Human Teeth slideshow.

http://news.discovery.com/human/evolution/hobbit-human-teeth-reveal-surprising-history-photos-151118.htm



(3)

Teeth in the news again, and once again, it's sports related.

Sports, technology, and archaeology seem to be among the highest volume generators of newsworthy teeth topics.

http://www.sbnation.com/lookit/2015/11/18/9755016/alex-poythress-kentucky-alley-oop-duke-teeth-stuck-in-net-video



(4)

Watch what occurs to your teeth when you consume soft drinks.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJlDx2Nf1zc



(5)

Is "Light Accelerated Teeth Whitening" actually more effective?

http://www.instyle.com/news/teeth-whitening-kits-instagram



(6)

 Teeth whitening can have hidden dangers, if the one doing it is not properly informed and qualified.

http://masterherald.com/teeth-whitening-is-perfectly-safe-if-carried-out-by-a-qualified-professional-but-can-cause-damage-to-the-teeth-and-gums-if-done-by-unqualified-people/30796/



(7)

Why do some people get more cavities than others?

https://www.yahoo.com/health/some-people-get-cavities-more-than-others-heres-119282531022.html



(8)

Tips for How To Quit Cigarettes

http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/quit-smoking-slideshow



(9)

Wolfing down your meal prevents you from really tasting it. When a dog does that, we like to say, "Did you taste any of it?"

http://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2015/11/10/455475805/mechanics-of-eating-why-youll-miss-flavor-if-you-scarf-your-food



(10)

The germs that cause cavities in baby teeth can lead to cavities in permanent teeth, affecting your child's smile and overall health for a lifetime. Baby teeth need to be babied.

http://www.spokesman.com/sponsored/2015/nov/04/12-reasons-why-you-need-baby-your-baby-teeth/



(11)

As a high tech dentist, I use only what has been proven safe and effective in clinical trials. But the dental technology realm is exploding just like many other fields, as science advances inexorably.

http://news.usc.edu/88721/how-to-eliminate-pain-associated-with-tooth-decay/

From the article:

Dual discoveries at USC propose a promising method to regrow nonliving hard tissue, lessening or even eliminating pain associated with tooth decay, which the National Institutes of Health calls the most prevalent chronic disease.

Janet Moradian-Oldak, a professor at the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC, has investigated methods to regrow tooth enamel for the past two decades. The process is especially tricky because unlike bone, mature enamel cannot rejuvenate. Tooth enamel is a nonliving tissue.

The a-ha moment came Oct. 22 when, in collaboration with lead author Sauma Prajapati of USC and other colleagues, she published a study in the Biomaterials journal saying matrix metalloproteinase-20, an enzyme found only in teeth, chops up amelogenin proteins, which facilitate organized enamel crystal formation. MMP-20 clears the way for hard material to usurp vacated space.

Her team is the first to define the function of an enzyme for preventing protein occlusion inside a crystal, she said.



(12)

Sometimes a new dental technology arises, but a practicing dentist must wait to see if something is scientifically proven by unbiased clinical studies, and not rush into every new trend.

http://www.engadget.com/2015/11/09/dental-cavity-regrow-procedure/

Scientists in Britain have developed a new procedure dubbed EAER, or "Electrically Assisted Enhanced Remineralisation," that can repair a slightly decayed tooth before a deep cavity forms.

The supposedly painless procedure involves cleaning (not drilling) the tooth of any signs of mild decay, then flushing it with minerals and stimulating it with an electric pulse.

This pushes the minerals into the deepest part of the lesion and speeds up a naturally occurring process called "remineralization".

This is where minerals in your saliva and some foods enter the tooth enamel and make it stronger.



(13)

Does smoking in your home cause your children to get more cavities?

http://www.foxnews.com/health/2015/10/30/kids-get-more-cavities-when-live-with-smokers.html



(14)

Get better sleep by brushing your teeth in the dark at night.

http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/wellness/a35450/brush-teeth-in-the-dark/



(15)

Vermont’s deer hunting rifle season begins on Saturday morning.

This year, the Department of Fish and Wildlife is asking hunters to send them the middle incisor teeth of deer that are killed.

Middle incisor tooth is the standard for aging deer, says Deer Project Leader Nick Fortin. The teeth are sent to a lab, which cross section them and determine the age. It’s similar to counting the rings on a tree, Fortin explained.

http://digital.vpr.net/post/hunters-asked-collect-teeth-department-studies-deer-population#stream/0

Installing Your Partial Dentures VIDEO

Here's a good video on how partial dentures are prepared.

Don't Wolf Down Your Food

As a dentist, I keep in touch with the whole realm of teeth, jaws, eating, speaking and related issues. Scarfing down a meal too quickly is a topic that caught my eye recently.

Wolfing down your food, like a dog who barely chews anything, "inhaling" it without tasting much, is actually harmful from several perspectives.

From a dental point of view, you need to give your teeth and jaws the exercise of chewing.

To just bite off a chunk, chomp on it a few times, then gulp it down with a swig of milk, is not a good way to dine. You need to properly masticate, chew thoroughly, your food so it's easy for your digestive system to process what you consume.

Slamming through a plate of cuisine is also preventing you from fully experiencing the aroma and other qualities of your food. Plus, fast eaters tend to eat more than slow eaters, and tend to gain too much weight.

There's an interesting research study on this subject.

http://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2015/11/10/455475805/mechanics-of-eating-why-youll-miss-flavor-if-you-scarf-your-food

Teeth Whitening Does Not Replace Brushing

Today's tooth whitening products are capable of giving you a beautiful white smile. However, tooth whitening is not equal to tooth brushing. Learn how brushing your teeth twice a day helps remove food particles and plaque that can cause tooth decay. Be sure to schedule regular visits with your dentist to keep a healthy smile for a lifetime.

Teeth in the News for Early November 2015

Here are some interesting news item links related to teeth and dental health that were posted in early November 2015.

(1)

25% of working age adults are unemployed in Greece.

Even with their entitlement mentality, their dental needs were underserved. Now Greece is one of the most unhealthy nations on earth.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/childrens-dental-problems-are-the-latest-sign-of-greeces-decay_563b7532e4b0307f2cac4280


(2)

What's the difference between plaque and tartar? 

How many teeth am I supposed to have? 

What does the inside of a tooth look like?

http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/picture-of-the-teeth

(3) 

Your body gives you hints that something's not right. 

Do you have any of these low-key indicators of potential dental problems? 

Catch tooth and gum issues them early -- and treatment will tend to be more comfortable and less costly.

http://www.local10.com/news/health/subtle-signs-of-dental-problems/35582304

(4)

Compassionate, competent dentists do exist. I enjoy seeing news articles about my colleagues who are helping to improve the world.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/downers-grove/news/ct-dgr-dentist-artist-tl-0924-20150916-story.html

(5)

Victoria's Secret model turns wisdom tooth into gold pendant.

http://www.etonline.com/news/175597_behati_prinsloo_dips_wisdom_tooth_gold_wears_it/

(6)

Health insurance often treats dental coverage as not very important.

http://www.bradenton.com/news/local/health-care/article43722282.html

(7)

Rotting teeth of babies is a big concern all over the world. 

Here's the problem being faced in Australia.

http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/kids-as-young-as-18-months-needing-rotten-teeth-pulled-because-of-bad-decay-20151013-gk817r.html

(8)

Baby's have very thin enamel on their teeth, so they can get cavities quite easily. Many parents are not aware of how vulnerable their infant's teeth are.

http://www.chieftain.com/life/health/3964357-120/teeth-health-tips-baby?

(9)

Current day rats are cute compared to ancient rats with teeth 10 times larger!

http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/technology-science/science/terrifying-ancient-super-rats-huge-6783071

(10)

Some points to keep in mind regarding teeth bleaching.

https://www.bostonglobe.com/lifestyle/health-wellness/2015/10/09/things/yI7bkwDzIRUJQSDAxCb0WJ/story.html

(11)

Glistening on the pebble-strewn bottom, in shades ranging from deep blue to black, the teeth are everywhere you look. 

The largest are nearly two inches long, and the smallest so tiny you can barely pick them up.

This particular spot, perhaps 20 feet long, sits below a small Sepulga River waterfall near Evergreen, Alabama. It ranks among the most fossil-rich places in the United States.

http://www.al.com/news/index.ssf/2015/11/scuba_diving_scientists_find_s.html

(12)

Oral health can ward off Alzheimer's dementia.

More reasons to keep your mouth clean and healthy all during your life, and especially as you age.

http://davisdentaldiary.blogspot.com/2015/10/oral-bacteria-linked-to-alzheimers.html

(13)

Here's a bird being a dental hygienist, giving a fellow creature a teeth cleaning.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/howaboutthat/11976883/Just-a-check-up-Bird-acts-as-dentist-to-clean-giraffes-teeth.html

(14)

10 myths about brushing and flossing.

http://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/616343/How-do-you-floss-teeth-brushing

(15)

What's the big deal about gum disease? 

How do I know if I have it? 

What happens if I don't get it treated?

http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/g/gum-disease

Challenging Smile Fix for a Bride To Be VIDEO

A wonderful story about a woman, about to get married, who had bad teeth, but will be corrected by a compassionate dentist on The Doctors TV show. Very nice.

2 Minutes Twice A Day VIDEO

This video helps you motivate your children to practice good oral health habits.

It's nice to have tools like this for educating our kids. Good dental hygiene will be their protector as they age into mature adults. They'll thank you for taking the time to show them videos like this and explaining why a good smile gives self esteem, more romantic options, and popularity.

Dental Make Over Surprise VIDEO

A heart warming video on how a woman got her teeth fixed, so that they look beautiful and natural. Her face had been sunken in, making her look a lot older than she really was. A procedure that costs $60,000 to $80,000 normally, "the biggest make over ever!" -- done for no charge.

Tooth Fairy Teaches Kids Dental Hygiene VIDEO

Here's a cute little video Public Service Announcement for kids, to help teach them the importance of brushing and flossing. In the "2 minutes, twice a day" themed video series. Your children will look back and thank you for instilling good dental hygiene habits in them. That is a precious gift that you as a parent have given. It will accompany them throughout their lives, making them more self-confident, happier, and healthier overall.

Times Are Tough, But Keep Your Teeth Healthy Anyway

I recently read that the national unemployment rate for September was 5.1%. But the percentage of working age people (25-65) that are actually employed is only at 62.5%.

That means that more than one out of three adults is not working.

And many people are:

• underemployed, working part-time
• underpaid for their education and/or experience 
• working in a lower paid occupation, not in keeping with what their education or experience warrants. 
• not counted as being unemployed because they've given up looking for work. 

In Peoria it was listed that the unemployment rate for September 2015 was 5.7% vs. 7% for September 2014.

It also stated that there were 2,600 less people employed since September of 2014. That means that many have either given up or moved away.

With the recent news of Caterpillar cutting thousands of jobs and Mitsubishi closing in Bloomington there well be less people employed locally. Obviously, there will be less disposable income or money for restaurants, movies, entertainment, etc.

Some people will skip going to the dentist to save money.

Our office tries to help our patients in our practice that have lost their jobs.

(1) Patients can ask our hygienists if it is possible for them to have their teeth cleaned every nine months instead of the usual six month interval.

(2) Sometimes, we can patch a broken tooth with a large filling, instead of restoring the tooth with a full crown. The tooth can be preserved and hopefully in the future the economy will improve and the patient saves the tooth. 

(3) For some families our office has done dentistry at reduced usual and customary fees and sometimes we have done dentistry for family members at no charge. We can usually work a plan to help our patients keep their teeth and have good oral health.

(4) We also have local service agencies that can help especially for children and emergency dental care. I have volunteered my time at various agencies in Peoria and continue to assist the needy.

(5) You may qualify for monthly payments via our CareCredit program.

Most people want to keep a healthy smile and people who have a good looking smile feel better and look better.

They also will be more apt to be hired versus someone who shows missing teeth when smiling or talking.

Your oral health is important to us.

Eventually, the economy will improve and people’s income and lives will improve.

I look forward to helping you keep a good healthy smile, regardless of your current financial situation.

All About Baby Teeth and more dental health news

Here's a roundup of interesting recent news items related to dental issues.



(1) "Everything You Need to Know About Baby Teeth"

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/andrew-swiatowicz/everything-you-need-to-know-about-baby-teeth_b_8277752.html




(2) "Dentist Asks Kids to Give Back Halloween Candy To Help a Good Cause"

http://wtkr.com/2015/10/13/dentists-office-asks-kids-to-give-back-their-candy-for-a-good-cause/




(3) Did the people of doomed Pompeii have better dental health than we do?

http://www.cnn.com/2015/10/04/health/roman-sugar-healthy-teeth/




(4) "Water Pick or Floss?"

http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/expert-answers/dental-floss/faq-20058112




(5) "Dentistry not covered in Obamacare, but needs to be included"

http://www.buffalonews.com/opinion/another-voice/another-voice-aging-nation-needs-to-focus-more-on-dental-care-20151013




(6) "Best and Worst Foods for Healthy Teeth"

http://www.charlotteobserver.com/living/health-family/article40649997.html




(7) "Debunking 10 Popular Myths About Children's Teeth"

http://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/609471/Children-dental-care-truths-myths





(8) "Good Oral Health Gets Harder As We Get Older"

http://www.northernstar.com.au/news/oral-health-for-seniors/2789050/





(9) Newborns who breathe tobacco smoke are 50% more likely to suffer poor dental health.

http://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2015/oct/21/passive-smoking-babies-doubles-risk-later-tooth-decay




(10)  Discovery of 47 teeth in Chinese cave changes picture of human migration out of Africa.

http://www.latimes.com/science/sciencenow/la-sci-sn-human-teeth-china-cave-20151014-story.html

Oral bacteria linked to Alzheimer's

We all dread becoming senile when we get old. It's a very sad and tragic health problem.

But by keeping your teeth and mouth healthy, you may be able to prevent or at least greatly delay the onset of cognitive impairments like Alzheimer's.

An article in the Journal of Oral Microbiology states that oral infections can be a potential contributing factor to the onset of dementia or Alzheimer's disease.

http://www.journaloforalmicrobiology.net/index.php/jom/article/view/29143

QUOTE

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a scourge of longevity that will drain enormous resources from public health budgets in the future. 

Currently, there is no diagnostic biomarker and/or treatment for this most common form of dementia in humans. 

AD can be of early familial-onset or sporadic with a late-onset. Apart from the two main hallmarks, amyloid-beta and neurofibrillary tangles, inflammation is a characteristic feature of AD neuropathology. Inflammation may be caused by a local central nervous system insult and/or by peripheral infections. 

Numerous microorganisms are suspected in AD brains ranging from bacteria (mainly oral and non-oral Treponema species), viruses (herpes simplex type I), and yeasts (Candida species). 

A causal relationship between periodontal pathogens and non-oral Treponema species of bacteria has been proposed via the amyloid-beta and inflammatory links. Periodontitis constitutes a peripheral oral infection that can provide the brain with intact bacteria and virulence factors and inflammatory mediators due to daily, transient bacteremias. 

If and when genetic risk factors meet environmental risk factors in the brain, disease is expressed, in which neurocognition may be impacted, leading to the development of dementia. 

To achieve the goal of finding a diagnostic biomarker and possible prophylactic treatment for AD, there is an initial need to solve the etiological puzzle contributing to its pathogenesis. 

This review therefore addresses oral infection as the plausible etiology of late-onset AD (LOAD).

.......

As for diagnostic biomarkers, increased antibody levels to specific oral pathogens in particular to P. gingivalis may be used as a monitoring tool years before clinical manifestation of AD. This is important because treatment will probably have to start early.

END QUOTE

The importance of good dental hygiene and oral health hits home when we consider how keep our mouths clean and free of infections can have an impact on our mental health and cognitive functioning as we age.

Dentistry Today provides this information about oral infections and their link to dementia issues.

QUOTE

Severe systemic fungal infections have dramatically increased among the elderly during the past 30 years, the researchers noted. 

Oral yeasts can be found in periodontal pockets and root canals, as well as on the mucosae and underneath dentures. 

Also, fungal molecules including proteins and polysaccharides were detected in peripheral blood serum. Fungal proteins and DNA were demonstrated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in the brain tissue of AD patients as well.

END QUOTE

How To Find a Dentist You'll Love and more news

Here's a roundup of some of the most interesting recent news reports related to dentists and dental health.



(1) "How To Find a Dentist You'll Love"

http://www.dailyherald.com/article/20151012/entlife/151019992/




(2) "A Life Saving Trip to the Dentist"

http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/story/news/local/2015/10/13/life-saving-trip-dentist/73774230/




(3) "Dentist Helps Syrian Refugees"

http://wivb.com/2015/10/19/ub-dentist-professor-supports-syrian-refugees-with-clinics-education/




(4) "Zimbabwe Won't File Charges Against Dentist Who Shot Cecil the Lion"

http://www.cnn.com/2015/10/12/africa/zimbabwe-cecil-lion-walter-palmer-no-charges/





(5) "Dentist Donates Money for Every Selfie Posted to His Facebook Page"

http://www.kvewtv.com/article/2015/oct/16/local-dentist-office-trending-selfie-esteem-challe/





(6) "3D Printed Teeth?"

https://uk.news.yahoo.com/dentist-could-3d-printing-teeth-134237691.html#7q2O1c1

https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg22830442-000-3d-printed-teeth-to-keep-your-mouth-free-of-bacteria/




(7) "The Best and Worst Halloween Candy for Your Teeth"

http://www.9news.com/story/news/health/2015/10/20/best-worst-halloween-candy-smarties-milk-duds/74299562/

Peoria dentist on how to avoid dental service scams

Doing it Right and Doing the Right Thing

I've enjoyed my profession as a dentist since 1975. I've met a lot of nice people and helped improve the smiles and oral health of many patients.

The technical improvements in dentistry have advanced the standard of care.

When I first started as a dentist, I wasn’t allowed to advertise. There were state regulations prohibiting any advertising. Even the signage listing your name was regulated.

I believe that lawyers were the first profession to advertise. Then physicians, dentists, hospitals and everybody else started advertising.

I have mixed feelings about professionals advertising their services, due to the many abuses I see.

It's important for people to be exposed to new services targeting their needs. Advertising is a major way for dentists to make known and explain their services.

Dentists also use it to seek new patients for their practice.

However, there are some ads that are borderline deceptive and give some people unrealistic expectations. 

For example, and I'm sure you've seen them, ads that promise dentures delivered in the same day.

While this can be done, all of the records and laboratory procedures have to go exactly right.

In our office, we usually schedule separate appointments for impressions, bite records, and do a tr-in of the denture(s) to check the accuracy of the bite records and check the aesthetics with the approval of the patient.

Sometimes, I require additional one or two appointments to take another impression or re-set the denture teeth for another try-in. It takes time and patience to get it right. It also takes time for the laboratory technician to get it right.

You want your dentist to use the best materials for you. There are some cheaper acrylics (plastics) and cheaper denture teeth that some dentists prescribe.

Our office only uses IVOCAP processing.

Our lab technician desires 3 working days to process a denture. It actually takes twenty four hours of time to process the denture.

Most people do not want their dentist to “rush” their dental service. When a case is rushed, there's no opportunity to really perfect the fit, make adjustments, or redo the case.

"Fast food" type dental services emphasize, unrealistically, the extreme frustration of waiting for quality dental work. The ads make it seem like everybody wants dentures, or implants, immediately. Right now. No waiting.

Ads will state that implants can be done in one day.

Yes, in certain cases it is physically possible.

What is disclosed in fine print, is that most patients are not ideal for immediate placement of implants with the final prosthesis (crowns) and there is a lower success rate in these immediate cases.

I aim for a high success rate for all my Peoria, IL patients.

Happy patients tend to engage in word of mouth advertising for a good dentist -- telling their friends and family members about their positive experience.

You expect me to know what I'm doing. You expect me to recommend what's in your best interests, not to meet some corporate quota. You don't want to be treated like a cash cow.

You expect me to keep your real interests as my top priority, not a fast dollar using speeded up processes, cheap material, and shoddy workmanship.

I sleep better at night knowing that I treat my patients the way I'd want to be treated by a dentist.

I feel confident knowing I have taken the ideal amount of time in preparation or fitting, used the best materials, and provided high quality workmanship for my patients.
Sometimes, I have seen patients in my office seeking a second opinion. They have seen a corporate dental center for a dental exam and have shown me their proposed treatment plans.

I had one patient that was told that she had eleven (11) cavities.

After my exam, I told her that she had no cavities. I recently had a patient who was told that her proposed treatment would be $6,500.00.

She was referred to me for a second opinion and I informed her that her dental treatment should be approximately $2,500.

About twenty years ago, I had a patient who was a school teacher. She was purchasing towels in a local department store in the evening. She noticed that inside the department store that there was a dental clinic. 

She had one lower tooth that was sensitive to cold temperature.

She decided at that evening to just stop in the clinic and find out what could be done to help her sensitivity. She was examined and told that her tooth needed a root canal.

She then had the root canal done.

She came to my office a couple of days later with numbness of her lower left lip and part of her lower left jaw.

She stated that the went to the clinic because it was open at night and convenient.

I informed her that my records showed that that tooth had gum recession and the exposed root surface was likely causing the sensitivity to cold.

Prior x-rays showed no deep fillings or evidence of a cavity on that tooth. I informed her that that the tooth likely did not need root canal therapy and only needed Sensodyne tooth paste applied to the root surface. 

This story gets worse.

The material used to fill the root canal was not the standard material, gutta percha, to fill the canal. The dentist used a new type of acrylic, over instrumented the canal, and injected the acrylic past the end of the root into the mandibular nerve canal.

 This caused the numbness in her lower left side.

I referred her immediately to a local oral surgeon, who then referred her to the University of Chicago oral surgery department.

After much professional consideration, it was determined to leave the material in place, due to the risk of causing more trauma by attempting to remove the acrylic from the nerve canal.

Eventually, most of her numbness abated, but there was no guarantee of future complications.

As a dental consumer, you have to be careful of advertising. You cannot read the fine print in the television ads. If you do not trust the recommended treatment, or can't understand the reasons given for it, be bold and assertive.

You owe it to yourself. Avoid unnecessary grief and expense.

 Get a second opinion.

Call my office for a free consultation.

Update on Cecil the Lion

News media are reporting that Walter Palmer, the dentist who killed Cecil the Lion, will not face criminal charges in Zimbabwe.

I have stated here:

http://davisdentaldiary.blogspot.com/2015/08/cecil-lion-peoria-dentist-responds.html


... that this dentist should offer to provide free dental services to the Zimbabwe people as a gesture of true apology and making amends.

A wonderful creature is gone. An apology seems like not enough.

http://www.cnn.com/2015/10/12/africa/zimbabwe-cecil-lion-walter-palmer-no-charges/

Do Whitening Toothpastes Really Work? VIDEO

Many of my Peoria, IL dental patients have questions about making their teeth whiter.

One of the potential solutions is toothpaste that is advertised as "whitening" -- but do they actually chemically lighten your teeth?

10 Dental Health Tips VIDEO

Here are 10 good tips on how to take better care of your teeth. An oral health video that my Peoria, IL dental patients will like. It's simple and clear, but good for reminding us about good dental habits.

Partial Dentures Explained VIDEO

Explanation of how partial dentures are made, delivered, and tested by your dentist.

How To Teach Kids About Dental Health VIDEO

A dentist explains to children how to take care of your teeth. My Peoria, IL patients enjoy anything that will help educated their kids -- and this video is very good.

Basic Services Provided by Dentists VIDEO

 Expert Village dentist explains fundamental services that are provided by dentists today.

Healthy teeth and gums are vital for life, success, and love

Dogs use their mouth like a hand. They need strong teeth to grab things, bite for self-defense, and chew their food.

Teeth are important for humans, too.

Keep yours in vibrant health and they'll serve you well all your life.

The medical world is increasingly emphasizing the impact that dental health has on many aspects of our lives.

Healthy teeth & gums =


* brighter smile

* more attractive facial structure

* fresher breath

* increased self confidence

* enhanced social relations

* clearer speaking

* more dates and better chances for marriage

* improved chewing of food

* better digestion

* stronger biting when necessary (like emergency situations when you have no knife or scissors

* improved heart health

Videos About Partial Dentures

Here are some well produced and narrated videos dealing with Partial Dentures. If you have more questions about partials, contact my office. I'll be happy to answer your questions.


 

 Dr. Burquez "Partial Dentures"




 

 Polident "Partial Dentures and Full Dentures"





 

 Sebastian Gonzales DDS "Types of Partial Dentures"





 

 Collins Family and Implant Dentistry, Vancouver, WA "Partial Dentures and Bridges: Hidden Attachment Systems"

Roundup of Dental Health Videos for Kids

Being a parent or daycare provider can be difficult. Getting children to pay attention and commit to good practices is not easy.

What if it could be made fun?

That would help a lot.

Taking good care of teeth and gums is a high priority in educating our kids. Good dental hygiene will have a major impact on their appearance, chewing, digestion, talking and other important aspects of life and socializing.

Nice teeth and gums can even have an influence on their careers and companionship.

Brushing, flossing, and other oral health disciplines are taught to children in these funny, short but powerful videos. A lot of creativity and imagination went into these charming videos, but the message comes through loud and clear. Enjoy these videos with your children. As you laugh together, your kids will also learn.

Dental Health Videos for Kids

"Stop Zombie Breath"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hfiZaEjrsfQ

"Mike the Polar Bear"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8OK_xO1I2UE



"Casper the Friendly Ghost on Brushing and Flossing"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dF-gK7lZtPI



"Going to the Dentist is Better Than the Movies"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i5FpE16lZdM



Dee Dee the Dinosaur "Love a Healthy Smile"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UKfLdWMqPQI



"The Haunted Mouth"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V6A_iuZORQQ



Dudley the Dinosaur "Miles's Toothache and Gramps"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Gl_vzL3PPE



"Family Nutrition and Dental Health"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NvM2bJQNnz0




Crest "Dental Defenders vs Cavity Creeps"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0NOwyxvEmjU



Colgate "How to Have a Bright Smile"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ij_8iM4ybl0



Billy Blue Hair "Why Do I Have to Go to the Dentist?"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mShcqNnZ9Ao



"Dudley Visits the Dentist"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TkSQCyl_rfY



"Ed Meets the Dentist"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7IqMwZCLMTI



Colgate "Adventures of Wiggly Tooth"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z6W5jCvS7Wg



"Sad Tooth, Happy Tooth"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qqWbc4SyKkI



"Going to a Special Doctor Called the Dentist"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xa4MH09Jw14



"Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist -- Part 1"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lcv0WbaN7cw



"Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist -- Part 2"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Wa56PVGT_I



1955 ADA Public Service Announcements (20 minutes)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OS0ik-ut-8U



"The Modified Scrub" (1979)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfWr3oRhMow



"New Baby Dino" (Preventing baby bottle tooth decay)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YHHbkYzxBgE



"Daughter's First Time at the Dentist"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f5xeLK3Ijno



"Smile Power"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xbd2u-Jvbwk



"The Value of a Smile" (1940s)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agWzmosxJek



"Bad Tooth Gang"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nwRFfjsTwq8



"Maxwell Boy Explorer"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=30hH76bHZEk



"Lost Tooth"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pHLj-jE92zs



"Island Jams"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FBa6INaWQg4




"Healthy Teeth"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aUlvpmcNPJM



"First Dental Appointment"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aReo5sgHENU



"Witch's Brew"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6NhWVhJvKE



"Mouth Guards"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TiCftPHtX4w



"Types and Functions of Teeth"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fsqki4EwIdM



"How To Brush Your Teeth Correctly"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hDZXSMU2lAk



"It's Time to Brush Your Teeth"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OHxTyGlmxh0

CareCredit lets you make monthly payments on dentist bills

Care Credit is an easy way to pay for your dental work, in monthly installments.

Many people think you must pay the full amount of a dentist bill upon completion of the services. That's not necessarily true. With a CareCredit medical credit card, you can get the word done immediately, then pay it off a certain amount each month.

With CareCredit, you can now go ahead and get that treatment, since it can pay for such healthcare costs as:

* dental care
* teeth whitening
* braces
* hearing aids
* vision exams
* eyeglasses and contacts
* LASIK surgery
* dermatology
* cosmetic procedures
* chiropractic care
* veterinary care for your pets
* co-payments and deductibles

What a relief it is, knowing that when a medical need arises, you can get needed care without worrying about paying the whole bill all at once.

It's easy to apply for your CareCredit card. Once approved, you can start your treatment right now, without waiting for your card to arrive.

You can use your CareCredit healthcare credit card to pay for any dental treatments that improve your mouth health -- like preventative check-ups, cleanings and root canals. You can also use it for cosmetic procedures like whitening, veneers, dental implants and ceramic crowns.

At my practice, James Lynn Davis, DMD, we accept CareCredit as a payment option for those who qualify for the service.

If you have any questions, contact my office or got to the CareCredit website:

http://www.carecredit.com/

Dental Care for US Troops in Kabul, Afghanistan VIDEO

Deployment Dentistry. Video by Cameron Currie | American Forces Network Afghanistan | Date: 11.25.2012. Dental care is a part of life for service members at home station and down range is no different. Senior Airman Cameron Currie tells us how dental clinics downrange keep the "fight" in the war fighter. Also available in high definition. Soundbite from Maj. Walter Dimalanta

Dental Care Issues for Seniors VIDEO

 Published on Jan 4, 2013 Periodontist Dr. Lee Sheldon in Melbourne, FL talks about dental care for seniors.

Dr. Sheldon goes over teeth-in-a-day restorations, periodontal disease and other oral health issues and their treatments.

Helping Seniors of Brevard County's mission is to improve the awareness of senior care services and programs as well as help lead the way in assisting seniors get the health care that they need.

Action for Dental Health VIDEO

Great video on Action for Dental Health. Education, prevention and treatment to get people out of the ER and into the dentist's chair. A nice example of the American Dental Association working with communities to strengthen and expand the local dental health care network.

Don't Let a Bad Dentist Bully You

Your teeth, gums, and oral health are very serious. 

Don't let a volume-oriented dental service try to push you into treatments that are profitable for them, but not really needed. Seeing dental patients as cash cows is a common reality in some dental practices that are heavily advertised.

Sometimes the treatments these clinics are pressuring people into getting can do more harm than good. The wrong dental procedure can be difficult or impossible to undo and fix.

Many of my Peoria, IL patients have dental problems but worry about how to afford treatment. And sometimes those treatments recommended by a dental chain or clinic may not be the best way to deal with an issue.

We accept a variety of payment options and offer monthly payment programs through CareCredit.

In some cases, the expensive treatment you thought you needed may not really be necessary.

For example, instead of pulling teeth and replacing them with bridges, implants, or dentures, it may be possible to save that tooth and preserve it as a functioning part of your chewing apparatus. That is the preferred approach, save instead of pull, whenever possible.

So these and other issues are important to consider. There are many dental services and fly-by-night clinics who are not as professional as they should be. Some are trying to lure people in to make a lot of money off each patient, recommending extreme treatments and unnecessary procedures.

Get a 2nd and 3rd opinion when it comes to major dental work.

Call me anytime you have a question. 

I love meeting new patients, including the tragic cases of those who had bad experiences from unprofessional dentists.

I'm anxious to give good advice to patients who are seeking a competent and experienced dentist.

What is a Cavity? VIDEO

Checkdent provides a nice, concise explanation of dental caries, commonly called cavities.

Caries means rotten or foulness in Latin. Dental caries, also known as cavity, refers to a decayed or rotting portion of a tooth; Caries is a tooth disease caused by bacteria and leeds often to tooth ache.

Basic Facts About Dental Implants

Implants are one of the biggest success stories in the evolution of dental technology. My Peoria, IL patients are often full of questions about this topic.

For many years, if you had missing teeth, your only options were bridges, partials, or full dentures. Now you can replace missing teeth with dental implants, which are a way to approximate the functionality of real teeth.

Dental implants attach directly to your jaw by way of an anchor, a post, and an artificial tooth.

Teeth replacements are not going to perform as well as your natural teeth. They take some getting used to. But for many folks, they're far better than having unsightly and embarrassing gaps between teeth.

Also, because they require extensive surgery, dental implants are only for patients who are in good health, have healthy gums, and adequate bone in the jaw. Such issues as diabetes, heart problems, and immune system deficiencies may rule out implants as a solution for a person.

The American Dental Association provides this information about dental implants:

QUOTE

First, the dentist surgically places the implant into the jawbone. Your dentist may recommend a diet of soft foods, cold foods and warm soup during the healing process.

Next, the bone around the implant heals in a process called osseointegration. What makes an implant so strong is that the bone actually grows around it and holds it in place. Osseointegration means “combines with the bone” and takes time. 

Some patients might need to wait until the implant is completely integrated, up to several months, before replacement teeth can be attached to the implant. Other patients can have the implants and replacement teeth placed all in one visit.

Finally, it’s time for the placement of the artificial tooth/teeth. 

For a single tooth implant, your dentist will customize a new tooth for you, called a dental crown. The crown will be based on size, shape, color and fit, and will be designed to blend in with your other teeth. If you are replacing more than a single tooth, custom-made bridges or dentures will be made to fit your mouth and your implants. 

(Note: The replacement teeth usually take some time to make. In the meantime, your dentist may give you a temporary crown, bridge or denture to help you eat and speak normally until the permanent replacement is ready.)

If you are interested in dental implants, it's a good idea to discuss it carefully with your dentist first. If you are in good general health this treatment may be an option for you. In fact, your health is more of a factor than your age. You may be medically evaluated by a physician before any implant surgery is scheduled.

Chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or leukemia, may interfere with healing after surgery. Patients with these issues may not be good candidates for implants. Using tobacco can also slow healing.

END QUOTE

If you're interested in dental implants, please contact me. I'll be happy to explain them in greater detail.

Love a Healthy Smile VIDEO

A nice video for children "Love a Healthy Smile" by DeeDee the Dinosaur, from the American Dental Association. This video teaches kids to skip the candy and go with fruits and vegetables. It emphasizes how a good smile is important.

Rushed Dentures Can't Be Good Dentures

A recent TV commercial makes it seem like waiting "a few weeks" for dentures is an intolerable burden.

The slick ad states that you'll have to sip your food through a straw until your dentures are done. A character in the commercial acts shocked and defiantly rejects such a scenario.

The "fast food" type dentures provider makes it seem like getting a new pair of dentures is something that doesn't need much time at all. This appeals to the modern tendency to be impatient and want everything right now.

Viewers are left with the erroneous impression that dentures should be designed and delivered quickly, so you can get back to eating food like a normal person with a full set of healthy teeth.

But consider this: you'll live with your dentures many years. They will be the tools that enable you to talk and chew your food. To rush the process, delivering your dentures the same day, or in very short time, is not necessarily the best way to get dentures.

Another false aspect of these TV commercials is the idea that once you get your new dentures, you'll be eating any kind of food easily. It skips over the fact that it takes some time and practice to get used to dentures. Your chewing and speaking will be a bit challenging at first. 

It's smart to take such dubious advertising with a grain of salt. Don't allow yourself to be tricked into going with the fastest, cheapest pair of dentures that some corporate chain or fly-by-night dentist is trying to sell you.

Need more information?

If you have questions about these "fast food" type dental services, please contact my office.

Tooth Enamel and Fillings VIDEO

A nice animation that explains how teeth with cavities are filled with bonding agents and composite fillings for durability and strength. Technical language is used, but the presentation is interesting.

Dental Service Scams are Rampant

All of a sudden, it seems like the public is being inundated with dental services ads by dubious providers.

When you keep seeing ads from dental service chains, you may start thinking they must be providing good dentistry to patients.

However, sometimes a scam company will flood the internet, radio, and TV with ads, then disappear, due to customer complaints, and law enforcement cracking down on them. What may seem popular and successful today can be nowhere tomorrow.

Don't let a con artist dentistry company ruin your mouth and raid your wallet!

Dentistry is an opaque subject to most people, a real mystery. Few understand how to tell if a dentist is telling the truth or trying to exploit them.

But your teeth are the jewels of your mouth. You need them to chew food, uphold the structure of your face, and display a nice smile. Serious mistakes related to teeth and oral health can be very dangerous.

Unfortunately, big corporate dental service chains are preying on people, even in the Peoria, IL area.

You should do some online research into dental services, treatments, and practices before choosing a dental provider. You can also contact other dentists to get a second and third opinion if an expensive dental treatment or a costly series of treatments is being recommended.

A poorly executed dental service or oral surgery can disfigure your face and lead to grim consequences, like infections and jaw problems.

Con artists use common tricks. They promise fast results and mock how long it takes traditional dentists to do work. They'll promise discounts, but may pull a fast one, adding hidden charges and even engaging in fraudulent insurance claims.

Bank Rate quotes James Quiggle, a spokesman for the Coalition Against Insurance Fraud:

"The most frequent dental scams are inflating claims, delivering worthless treatment that patients don't need and billing insurers for phantom treatment that the dentist never delivered," he says. "Dentists also may have a staffer do procedures that only a dentist is licensed to perform, yet bill as if the dentist had done the work."

READ MORE:

http://www.bankrate.com/finance/insurance/dental-scams-1.aspx

http://www.insurancefraud.org/scam-alerts-dental.htm