INVISALIGN

Invisalign  has revolutionized the world of Orthodontics by providing a virtually invisible, predictable and removable treatment option for straightening teeth.

Invisalign involves the use of a custom made series of aligners that gradually shift teeth into better positions in the jaws and mouth. There are no uncomfortable metal brackets to attach or wires to tighten. A new set of sequential aligners are changed every two weeks until the teeth have moved into the pre-planned desired position.

Advantages to Invisalign

Virtually invisible teeth straightening

Easy access to brushing and flossing

Less irritation to gums and cheeks

Minimal disruption to daily life activities and socializing

Attractive orthodontic option for all age groups

Disadvantages to Invisalign

Patient compliance is a huge component in the success of Invisalign treatment

Conventional treatment may work more effectively in some orthodontic cases

Discuss your best option with the dentist.

Benefits of having properly aligned teeth extend far beyond a confident and beautiful smile. Swollen, red gums are often a result of teeth crowding. Unfortunately, they are also signs periodontal disease.Properly aligned teeth allow the healthiest defense against potential periodontal problems and other overall health hazards.

Most dental insurances provide coverage for Invisalign treatment just as they would other orthodontic treatment. In addition, flexible and comfortable monthly payments are also available with Care credit and other third party financing agencies. with

Over three million individuals of all ages enjoying beautiful and confident smiles after Invisalign treatment is a positive testament of its popularity, versatility, comfort and convenience. 

Call Janice at 909 627 6699 to schedule a complimentary consultation

Visit www.smileartistrychino.com for additional practice information.

Antibiotics and Dental Procedures

The mouth is packed with various strains of bacteria, which in a healthy individual maintain optimal oral health. During daily routines like chewing, brushing or flossing, the bacteria can enter the blood stream but don’t present a problem for most of us  when the immune system is healthy. In compromised health, bacteremia (bacteria entering blood stream) can cause infections elsewhere in the body.

Specific heart conditions and orthopedic implants such as artificial joints have known to be the more vulnerable sites for potential infections. 

Antibiotic prophylaxis, or preventative use of antibiotics prior to a dental visit is recommended in conditions like-

-Artificial heart valves

-History of infection of the lining of the heart or heart valves known as Infective Endocarditis

-A heart transplant

-Congenital heart conditions like Cyanotic congenital heart disease

-Defects repaired with a prosthetic device

The criteria for antibiotic prophylaxis is periodically updated by the American Heart Association and the American Dental Association depending on current research and development. Currently, the AHA recommends prophylactic antibiotics only on patients with a history of endocardial bacterial endocarditis.

American Associations of Orthopedic Surgeons in their revised guidelines no longer recommend antibiotics for patients with artificial joints.

In an abundance of caution, our office coordinates with the patient’s physician to determine the appropriate antibiotic protocol. 

Visit www.smileartistrychino.com to E mail us at lovemydentist@gmail.com

Preventing Bad Breath

Preventing and battling bad breath is essential to self -esteem. Halitosis or bad breath is an unpleasant condition that's a cause for embarrassment. Some individuals with bad breath are not even aware of the problem and interestingly, some who don't have bad breath are convinced that they do( a condition called halito-phobia).

Bacteria that reside in the mouth, especially on the back part of the tongue are primarily responsible for bad breath Teeth and dentures not cleaned properly harbor odor causing bacteria and produce the foul smelling compounds.

Certain foods like garlic and onions contribute to objectionable breath because they contain odor causing compounds that directly enter the blood stream and then transferred t the lungs where they are exhaled. Until the body eliminates these compounds, oral hygiene will only temporarily mask the odor.

Bad breath is also induced by tobacco products including cigarettes, cigars, pipes and smokeless tobacco.  These products also increase the risk for oral and lung cancer.

Dieters can experience bad breath a a result of the breakdown of reserve fat and protein for energy, releasing ketones (organic compounds) in the breath.

Dental and systemic disease are also causes of bad breath. Persistent bad breath and bad taste are warning signs for periodontal disease and may signal other medical disorders like chronic sinusitis, chronic bronchitis, diabetes, GERD ( frequent reflux of stomach contents), oral and pharyngeal cancer, liver and kidney disease.

Dry mouth is another condition associated with bad breath. Normal salivary flow cleanses the mouth and removes odor causing particles. Dry mouth occurs when salivary flow is reduced as a side effect of medications, salivary gland problems , auto immune conditions  and from mouth breathing.

TIPS for Preventing Bad Breath:

Avoid constant use of breath mints and other hard candies that temporarily mask malodor and lead to decay.

Discuss your medications with a pharmacist, physician and dentist to reduce dosage or substitute medications that cause drying of the mouth.

Adhere to dental hygiene recommendations made by dentist and hygienist.

Time to De-Stress

 Stress has become a common concern as more of us encounter stress in our daily lives. We do know of its negative effects on the body and mind. Our mouths too are just as likely to be affected by stressful situations as our bodies and mind.

Dental conditions associated with stress include-

Bruxism or night grinding: Teeth significantly wear and/or fracture due to heavy biting during sleep as  a result of internalizing stress.  Long term bruxism eventually can lead to facial and tempero-mandibular pain which is often debilitating.  A nightguard is recommended to protect the jaw and teeth.

Canker sores- Although the causes of these sores are still unknown, they are often brought on by stress. They are quite painful  and treatment is often symptomatic. Medications and laser treatment can  reduce the severity and duration of the sores.

Dry Mouth is often caused by stress reducing the salivary function  as well as with the use of anti depressants and other medications. Chronic dry mouth leads to a host of dental issues including increase in cavities, periodontal and gum disease, soft tissue conditions.  Improved oral hygiene and regular visits significantly reduce the potential for  loss of bone or teeth. 

Lichen Planus in the mouth is characterized by white lacy patterns, sores and ulcers. This condition is believed to be a reaction to viral infections caused by stress.

Gum disease- Long term stress suppresses the immune system  which in turn increases the susceptibility to infections including periodontal disease.

If you are feeling stressed, take proper measures to reduce the stress in your life such as eating well, exercising, getting plenty of sleep.  If you suffer from extreme anxiety or depression, seek timely professional help.

If you are concerned with stress affecting your mouth or teeth, our office can address your concerns and treat as necessary.

 Call  909 627 6699 or Visit www.mydentistchino.com to reach us.

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