Patient-Specific Treatment and Preventative Care Crucial to Prevent Tooth Loss

A recent study performed by researchers at the University of Michigan, offered new insights into the correlation between number of annual dental cleanings and tooth loss resulting from the gum disease periodontitis. By evaluating dental claims data from over 5,000 adult patients who had received regular preventative care check-ups for 16 straight years and comparing them to three specific risk factors (smoking, diabetes and interleukin-1 genetic variations), the researchers were able to determine each patient's risk for progressive periodontitis and offer them a personalized preventative care dental plan.

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Tooth Decay In Children and Adults Impacting General Health

 According to a new U.K.-based study published in the Journal of Dental Research, over half of the international population, an estimated 4 billion people, suffer from "untreated oral conditions."  The overwhelming presence of tooth decay in both children and adults can be attributed to poor nutritional choices, such as sugary juices and sodas, and overall oral health neglect.  Costly procedures, fear of the dentist and a general lack of concern are a few reasons why patients avoid preventative dental care.  Unfortunately, poor oral health can significantly impact a person’s general health.

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How Are You Proctecting Your Oral and Overall Health?

Studies have repeatedly shown that unhealthy diets can lead to dental health problems such as cavities and gum disease as well as overall health concerns including heart disease, diabetes and cancer.  The Mayo Clinic suggests that inflammation of the body caused by oral bacteria can cause heart disease, stroke and clogged arteries. To protect one’s dental health, experts recommend an organic diet full of calcium- and phosphorous-rich foods such as dark leafy greens, yogurt, broccoli, garlic, nuts and beans.  Ignoring your dental health will not only lead to dental decay, but it can also cause serious damage to your body’s overall health.  

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Limited Access to Dental Care Leave Many Unemployed

In a world obsessed with physical perfection, those suffering from bad teeth frequently experience discrimination in the employment world.  Employers are often so distracted by a person’s crooked smile that they fail to recognize the potential assets the interviewee may possess.  This prejudice is most often witnessed when the job in question requires face-to-face interactions with other people.  Unfortunately expensive procedures and especially limited access to dental care is often the root of the problem for patients in California.  In order to address this issue, programs like the California Dental Association's "CDA Cares" offer dental care free of charge to individuals suffering from serious dental problems. 

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Increase Community Awareness, Stop the Dental Divide Now!

http://www.healthcanal.com/oral-dental-health/38759-targeting-the-dental-divide.html

According to a report outlined by the American Dental Association, the US is currently experiencing a serious dental health crisis due to a “dental divide” among lower-income and middle- and higher-income adults.  At a recent conference, the ADA unveiled the new “Action for Dental Health: Dentists Making a Difference” campaign that focuses on reducing the number of adults and children with untreated dental disease by increasing community awareness and providing improved care to afflicted Americans. If you are experiencing tooth or gum pain and sensitivity or if it is time for your regular dental check-up, then call Sonoma Smiles in Rohnert Park at (707) 200-1191.

Wisdom Teeth: When It's Time to Say Goodbye

http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2013/06/02/wisdom-teeth-surgery/2369593/

Removing one’s wisdom teeth has long been deemed a rite of passage, however recent reports suggest a different approach to the emergence of wisdom teeth.  Due to the possible risks of anesthesia and surgery, critics believe keeping healthy wisdom teeth is the safest option for patients.  But the oral surgeon’s group warns that seemingly harmless wisdom teeth may ultimately cause disease or infection down the road.  Because it is impossible to predict which teeth will remain healthy and which teeth will cause problems, some believe it’s better “safe than sorry”.  If you are experiencing pain, bleeding or swelling of the gums, call Sonoma Smiles today to discuss your options.  Call Sonoma Smiles at (707) 200-1191.

Rohnert Park Dentistry: Ensure Your Child's Oral Health

http://www.cnn.com/2013/05/28/health/baby-dental-health/index.html

Although a baby’s tooth may not have surfaced, it is still developing beneath the gums and requires dental attention to prevent tooth decay. Tooth decay is a leading chronic childhood disease and through regular brushing and routine dental check-ups it can be easily prevented.  In order to ensure your child’s teeth remain decay-free, pediatric dentists recommend a child’s first dental visit occur no later than age one.  These visits allow dentists to examine the child’s teeth and gums and offer parents crucial tips for protecting their child’s dental health. Book your baby’s first dental check-up today!  Call Sonoma Smiles in Rohnert Park at (707) 200-1191.

Is Diet Soda Impacting Your Oral Health?

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-204_162-57586640/diet-soda-erodes-teeth-as-much-as-meth-crack-case-study/

A recent study found that heavy consumption of diet soda can be just as harmful to teeth as habitual use of crystal meth and crack cocaine.  The study compared the teeth of three individuals: a meth user, a cocaine user and a woman who drank 2 liters of diet soda every day for three to five years.  The results showed all three individuals had severe tooth erosion due to the high acid levels present in both drugs and diet soda.  While not outright banning diet soda, the Academy of General Dentistry encouraged people to drink diet soda in moderation and to brush or rinse their teeth after consumption.  Keep your teeth healthy and beautiful by visiting your Rohnert Park dentist today! Call Sonoma Smiles at (707) 200-1191.