monroe, Author at Adam Brown Dentistry

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Invisalign for the Over-50 Crowd

monroe2025-05-01T13:58:09+00:00April 28th, 2025|Dentures, Invisalign, Teeth Cleaning|

Smart Seniors Are Holding Onto Their Real Estate—And Their Teeth!

Think braces are just for teenagers? Think again. Today’s confident, active adults—and yes, even grandparents—are turning to Invisalign to perfect their smiles without the hassle of metal brackets. Whether you’re looking to boost your confidence, improve your bite, or just want to look as young as you feel, Invisalign offers a nearly invisible, comfortable solution. Dr. Adam Brown, a seasoned expert in adult and senior orthodontics, understands the unique dental needs of mature patients and delivers personalized care that combines health, beauty, and function. Your smile is one of your greatest assets—why not make it one you’re proud to share?

Invisalign at Dr. Adam Browns office in Monroe for people over 50

Invisalign: Why Adults Are Joining the Smile Revolution

Braces aren’t just for kids anymore. In fact, nearly 20% of orthodontic patients today are adults, a number that’s steadily growing. More and more people over 18 are realizing that straight teeth aren’t just about a pretty smile—they’re essential for long-term oral health. Misaligned teeth can lead to uneven wear, jaw discomfort, and trouble keeping certain areas clean, increasing the risk of decay and gum disease.

For adults seeking a low-profile solution, Invisalign offers a clear advantage—literally. These transparent aligners are almost invisible when worn and can be removed during meals or while brushing and flossing, making them both practical and discreet. That convenience makes Invisalign especially attractive to adults who want to improve their smiles without drawing attention to the process.

A Proactive Approach to Aging Teeth

It’s natural for teeth to shift over time, even if you had braces when you were younger. As the years go by, you might notice crowding or overlapping that wasn’t there before. These subtle shifts can make it harder to clean between teeth, setting the stage for plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. Dental work like crowns or bridges can also unintentionally affect how your teeth align.

That’s where Invisalign comes in. By gently guiding your teeth back to better positions, it supports not only a straighter smile but also easier daily hygiene. For many adults, choosing Invisalign is a smart move—helping them avoid more invasive dental treatments down the road and protect their oral health for the future.

Invisalign corrects teeth that have moved over time, even if you had braces as a teen.

The Confidence That Comes With a Great Smile

A beautiful smile can do more than improve your appearance—it can boost your confidence and help you feel more vibrant and youthful. In fact, people with straight teeth are often viewed as healthier, more approachable, and even more successful. Many adults find that later in life is the perfect time to focus on their smile, as they now have the freedom and resources to invest in themselves.

Thanks to Invisalign, this transformation doesn’t have to come with the awkwardness of traditional metal braces. The clear aligners are subtle enough for professional and social settings, allowing you to go about your day while working discreetly on your smile. It’s a modern solution that fits seamlessly into adult life.

Protecting Your Investment: Why Aftercare Matters

Finishing Invisalign is a major milestone—but keeping your smile straight takes a little ongoing care. Many adults unknowingly grind their teeth at night, a habit called bruxism that can gradually undo the results of orthodontic treatment. A custom night guard offers a simple way to protect your new alignment and reduce wear on your enamel.

Along with a night guard, maintaining good daily habits—like brushing, flossing, and seeing your dentist regularly—will help ensure that your natural teeth stay strong and healthy. Invisalign isn’t just a short-term cosmetic fix—it’s a long-term investment in your overall oral wellness.

Experience You Can Trust: Dr. Adam Brown

Choosing the right provider makes all the difference when it comes to Invisalign. Dr. Adam Brown brings over a decade of experience in both Invisalign treatment and senior dental care, making him especially well-suited to treat adult patients with complex needs.

Dr. Brown takes a personalized approach to every case, considering each patient’s goals, oral history, and overall health. From your initial consultation to your final aligner, you’ll receive attentive, expert care focused on both function and aesthetics—because a great smile should feel as good as it looks.

invisalign for seniors - Adam Brown DDS Monroe

Your Smile, Your Future

Invisalign is a powerful tool for adults who want straighter teeth, better oral health, and a boost in self-confidence. Under the expert care of Dr. Adam Brown, you can take the first step toward a more radiant smile—without compromising your lifestyle or comfort.

Let’s Talk About Your Smile

Ready to explore what Invisalign can do for you? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Adam Brown and take the next step toward a healthier, more confident you—at any age.

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Understanding the Metallic Taste: Common Causes

monroe2025-03-17T13:31:48+00:00March 15th, 2025|Adam Brown DDS, Oral Health, Tooth Infection|

Experiencing a metallic taste in your mouth, medically known as dysgeusia, can be both perplexing and unpleasant. This condition can affect your enjoyment of food and overall quality of life. Understanding the potential causes and exploring effective home remedies and preventive measures can help alleviate this issue.

A metallic taste in your mouth

Understanding the Metallic Taste: Common Causes

A metallic taste can arise from various factors, ranging from lifestyle habits to underlying medical conditions. Here are some prevalent causes:

Poor Oral Hygiene

Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to dental problems such as gingivitis, periodontitis, and tooth infections. These conditions can contribute to a metallic taste in the mouth. Maintaining proper oral hygiene is essential to prevent such issues.

Medical News Today

Medications

Certain medications are known to cause a metallic taste as a side effect. These include antibiotics like clarithromycin and metronidazole, blood pressure medications such as captopril, and medications like metformin used to treat diabetes. The body absorbs these drugs, and they can be excreted into the saliva, leading to taste disturbances.

Over-the-Counter Vitamins and Supplements

Multivitamins containing heavy metals like chromium, copper, and zinc, as well as prenatal vitamins and iron or calcium supplements, can cause a metallic taste. This typically occurs as the body processes these substances.

Infections

Upper respiratory infections, colds, and sinusitis can alter your sense of taste, resulting in a metallic sensation. These changes are usually temporary and resolve once the infection clears.

Cancer Treatments

Patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, especially for head and neck cancers, may experience taste changes, including a metallic taste. This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as “chemo mouth.”

Pregnancy

Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can lead to dysgeusia, causing expectant mothers to experience a metallic or sour taste. This symptom is typically most pronounced during the first trimester and often diminishes as the pregnancy progresses.

Neurological Conditions

Neurological disorders, such as dementia, can affect taste perception, potentially leading to a metallic taste. This occurs due to the degeneration of taste buds and changes in the way the brain interprets taste signals.

Home Remedies to Alleviate Metallic Taste

If you’re experiencing a metallic taste, several home remedies may help mitigate the sensation:

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Brush your teeth and tongue at least twice a day and floss daily. This practice helps remove food particles and bacteria that can contribute to taste disturbances.

Rinse with Baking Soda Solution

Rinsing your mouth with a solution of half a teaspoon of baking soda and half a teaspoon of salt dissolved in one cup of warm water before meals can neutralize acids and reduce a metallic taste.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water helps keep your mouth moist and can wash away substances that might be causing a metallic taste.

Chew Sugar-Free Gum

Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candies can stimulate saliva production, which may help wash away the metallic taste.

Use Plastic Utensils

Using plastic utensils instead of metal ones can help reduce the metallic taste, especially if it’s triggered by contact with metal cutlery.

Adjust Your Diet

Incorporate naturally sweet foods, such as citrus fruits, to help mask a metallic taste. For example, adding a spritz of orange to foods and drinks can be beneficial.

Quit Smoking

Smoking can dull your sense of taste and contribute to a metallic sensation. Quitting smoking can improve your overall oral health and taste perception.

Avoid Metal Cookware

Cooking with glass or ceramic cookware instead of metal pots and pans can help prevent a metallic taste in your food.

Marinate Meats

Marinating meats in sweet fruit juices or sweet wines, or cooking with plenty of herbs and spices, can help mask a metallic taste.

Preventive Measures

To reduce the likelihood of developing a metallic taste in your mouth, consider the following preventive strategies:

Regular Dental Check-Ups

Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Addressing dental issues promptly can prevent infections that might lead to taste disturbances.

Manage Medications

If you suspect a medication is causing a metallic taste, consult your healthcare provider. They may adjust your dosage or suggest an alternative medication.

Address Underlying Health Conditions

Managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, or liver disease can help prevent taste disturbances associated with these illnesses.

References:

Medical News Today – www.medicalnewstoday.com (Covers oral hygiene and its link to taste disturbances)
WebMD – www.webmd.com (Discusses causes, home remedies, and preventive measures for metallic taste)
Sendhil Dental – www.sendhildental.com (Explains hydration’s role in reducing metallic taste)
Harvard Health – www.health.harvard.edu (Provides dietary recommendations for managing taste disturbances)
Oral-B – www.oralb.co.uk (Covers the impact of smoking on taste perception)

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Microplastics in Teeth Aligners – Should We be Concerned?

monroe2024-10-09T00:20:04+00:00October 9th, 2024|Adam Brown DDS, Invisalign|

Almost One Billion Teeth Aligners End Up in Landfills Each Year

Now that you’ve thrown out your plastic containers and parted with your much-loved collection of vintage Tupperware, there’s another plastic to consider. While there’s little to no evidence that wearing teeth aligners is harmful during the corrective phase, there may be some issues with the disposal of these convenient dental tools. They are favorites of patients, dentists, and dental hygienists. No one is volunteering to go back to the metal, wax, and rubber bands, but there are some concerns about proper disposal due to the microplastics that are released as the aligners start to decompose.

Microplastics released from discarded aligners

For more information read this recent article Published on: 12 Sep 2024, 2:33 am by Vineeta Sharma

Discarded aligners often end up in landfills where they take decades to decompose, releasing microplastics into the environment.

Microplastics have been declared a global emergency thanks to their ubiquitous presence in all aspects of life: air, soil, food and now, human organs.

These particles can enter the human body by swallowing contaminated food and water or inhaling airborne particles, potentially leading to respiratory issues, cardiovascular problems and even cancer.

Their pervasive use raises concerns about their impact on ecosystems and human health.

The lack of information around potential threats of microplastic leaching into everyday items is concerning. A case in point is orthodontic aligners.

These clear, custom-made devices help straighten teeth discreetly and effectively and are a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional metal braces.

Aligners are typically designed to be changed every two weeks to ensure optimal alignment progress. However, the leaching of microplastics from these devices when discarded has emerged as a significant health and environmental concern.

And, with around 728 million units being produced each year, it is becoming a significant problem.

Microplastics explained

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles measuring less than 5 millimeters in diameter. There are two main types: Primary and secondary.

Primary microplastics are intentionally manufactured to be small, such as microbeads in personal care products and plastic pellets used in industrial processes.

Secondary microplastics result from the breakup of larger plastic items due to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, mechanical wear and chemical processes.

Microplastics have been found in oceans, rivers, soils and even the air.

The environmental impact of microplastics is equally troubling. Marine and terrestrial animals can ingest these particles, leading to injury, digestive issues and exposure to toxins. This contamination poses a threat to entire ecosystems by disrupting biodiversity and food chains. It’s through the food chain that they can end up in humans.

The problem with dental aligners

Orthodontic aligners are commonly made from thermoplastic materials designed for durability and flexibility, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyurethane.

These materials are subjected to a rigorous regimen, as aligners are typically worn for 20 to 22 hours a day and are changed every two weeks to ensure continuous alignment.

Despite their intended durability, these materials can contribute to microplastic pollution in several ways.

The primary concern is degradation. Aligners are exposed to saliva, temperature variations from hot or cold food and drink and mechanical stress from chewing. This constant exposure can cause the aligner materials to degrade over time.

Initial studies indicate that this degradation could take place as early as one week of wearing.

The PET and polyurethane in aligners are susceptible to degradation through hydrolysis, where water interacts with the polymer structure, leading to its breakdown into smaller particles.

The physical stresses of daily use, including chewing and speaking, also contribute to this fragmentation.

Improper disposal of aligners exacerbates the problem. They often end up in landfills where they degrade slowly. As the plastic breaks down, it releases microplastics into the soil and groundwater.

The persistence of plastic materials in landfills means that microplastics can remain in the environment for decades, contributing to broader plastic pollution issues.

Incinerating plastic aligners can also release harmful substances and carcinogenic toxins.

Microplastics health risks

Microplastics also pose significant health risks due to their ability to induce inflammatory responses and oxidative stress, which occurs when there are too many free radicals, a type of unstable molecule, and not enough antioxidants to neutralize them, leading to cell damage.

Microplastics can contribute to this stress by releasing chemicals that increase free radicals in the body.

These effects arise from both their physical and chemical properties.

Microplastics, once ingested or inhaled, can cause inflammation. Chronic exposure can provoke respiratory or gastrointestinal inflammation, potentially leading to long-term health issues including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and certain cancers.

Microplastics also contribute to oxidative stress by creating reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are unstable molecules that can harm cells. ROS can damage cells by attacking cell membranes, altering proteins and causing changes or breaks in DNA. This damage can disrupt cell function and lead to health problems like disease and cell death.

This damage is linked to chronic diseases such as heart disease, neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimers and dementia and cancer.

Recycling may help

As more aligners are used and changed more often, the environmental burden of clear aligner therapy grows.

This massive volume of plastic waste means there is an urgent need for effective waste management solutions.

One possible solution is recycling.

An app, designed by researchers at Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies, helps promote responsible disposal by helping users find recycling centers or drop-off points for used aligners.

The used aligners are recycled into plastic pellets that can then be used as raw material for various plastic products.

AlignTrack offers detailed instructions on preparing the aligners for recycling, ensuring they are processed correctly, and valuable materials are recovered. Users can also report any health issues after using aligners. It also collects user feedback on aligner comfort and design for future design improvements.

A possible improvement is exploring orthodontic options made from sustainable or biodegradable materials to help reduce plastic use and environmental impact.

Research is emerging, such as the use of 4-D aligners to reduce the quantity of aligner use by patients, though its cytotoxicity or effects on human health hasn’t yet been established.

Ensuring not just the safety of materials used in aligners through rigorous testing but also increased research and investment in mitigating the adverse environmental effects of clear aligner therapy is essential for the well-being of both humans and the planet.

Swasti Verma, one of the co-founders of AlignTrack, is pursuing a PhD in biotechnology from Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies, Faridabad.

Vineeta Sharma is Associate Professor at the Department of Biotechnology, Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies, Faridabad. She is an epigenetics expert, researching gene secrets amidst climate change.

Originally published under Creative Commons by 360info™.

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Don’t Wait: Why Adults Should Visit the Dentist Regularly

monroe2021-08-15T01:47:16+00:00August 15th, 2021|Adam Brown DDS, Dental Anxiety|

Adult Dental Anxiety

As a kid, you may have learned the fundamentals of oral hygiene, such as brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and going to dental checkups every six months. Indeed, these practices are essential to maintaining a child’s oral health. But keeping a solid dental routine is just as vital for adults as it is for kids. Among other things, doing so helps you to prevent tooth decay and tooth loss, avoid expensive medical bills, and foster your all-around health and well-being.

What’s the moral of the story? Don’t outgrow your good dental habits! Below, Adam Brown DDS will discuss some of the best reasons for going to the dentist and practicing consistent oral hygiene as an adult. And we’ll also cover some of the most common adult dental problems, as well as how you can overcome dental anxiety.

Why Go to the Dentist as an Adult?

So, you know that taking your child to the dentist is important. Let’s discuss why you, an adult, should also make regular visits to your local dentist office:

Maintaining Strong Teeth

Dentists and dental hygienists have the expertise and equipment necessary to deeply clean your teeth. Even if you brush for two minutes, twice a day at home, you can’t eliminate the hardened plaque and biofilm (a.k.a. calculus) found in your teeth. And that’s especially the case if the calculus is located beneath your gingiva.

Along with following a dental hygiene regimen at home, going to checkups and cleanings at your dentist’s office every six months can help your teeth stay healthier and stronger than if you only use a toothbrush at home.

It’s well known that adults are more prone to plaque buildup and periodontal disease. Oftentimes, such issues slowly progress and go unnoticed until they’re severe. If you skip your dental visits, gum disease and other problems can go undetected, eventually leading to tooth decay and tooth loss.

Reducing the Likelihood of Expensive Bills

As with other health problems, issues with your teeth and gums will be easier and safer to treat when you catch them early. And that means that you won’t have to spend as much money fixing those problems. For example, say you have a minor cavity. If you allow, even unknowingly, that cavity to keep spreading, it can enter the dental pulp over time and ultimately lead to infection. To put it into perspective: Your $175 filling just turned into a $2,000 root canal and crown, if not a $4,000 implant procedure.

Be proactive about being preventative. Get regular exams at the dentist so that any potential issues are addressed before they turn into emergencies.

Benefitting Your Overall Health

It’s well established that your oral health is strongly linked to your overall health. A number of diseases are often discovered through oral health issues. For instance, pneumonia and endocarditis, as well as pregnancy complications, are sometimes identified when patients come in with a dental problem. In fact, it is recommended that any woman planning to get pregnant should get a dental exam and address any issues as soon as possible.

Health issues outside of your oral health can also impact your oral health. Heart disease, diabetes, and HIV/AIDS, for instance, tend to leave your body more prone to infection. This, in turn, can cause a variety of oral health problems. You won’t necessarily become diabetic because of poor oral health, but any oral health complications you have could be exacerbated by diabetes. Moreover, going to the dentist regularly can help you foster your mental health by boosting your self-esteem and giving you peace of mind.

Minimizing Bad Breath

Anyone can have bad breath every now and then. But if you notice that your bad breath has become regular and cannot be mitigated by strong mouthwash or breath mints, you might have something a little more serious going on.

Enter halitosis—the fancy medical term for chronic bad breath. Factors like dry mouth, leftover food particles, and tobacco use are common causes of halitosis. But severe health issues like sinusitis, chronic bronchitis, diabetes, and liver or kidney disease can also be the culprit. If you think you might have this problem, it’s advisable to visit the dentist so that you can be examined and determine whether your bad breath is or is not related to your oral health.

Detecting Oral Cancer Early

We mentioned that going to the dentist is an excellent way to detect tooth and gum problems, and that includes oral cancer. Oral cancer comes with a higher death rate than some other types of cancers, primarily because it frequently goes undiscovered until it is well developed. And with each year you age, your chances of getting oral cancer become higher.

Don’t rely on yourself to be able to identify oral cancer because it’s almost impossible. Oftentimes, there is no alarming pain or symptoms when oral cancer begins to develop, and it can appear in any area of the mouth and throat.

A professional dentist or dental hygienist has the education and training necessary to recognize the signs and symptoms of oral cancer early in development. By going to the dentist every six months, you stand a much better chance of detecting the onset of oral cancer.

Increasing Your Self-Confidence

There’s no getting around the fact that straight, white teeth make for a great smile, which can add some major self-confidence. As we’ve said before, brushing and flossing each day can go a long way in maintaining your smile, but going to the dentist is the surest way to get rid of the plaque under your gum line, clean the hard-to-reach places between your teeth, and take care of stains. A deep cleaning, not to mention professional whitening services, will promote a healthier and brighter smile than you can attain by yourself.

Yes, poor oral health can have a negative impact on your self-confidence. But, like it or not, it can also play a role in how others perceive you. It’s unfortunate, but bad teeth can negatively impact an individual’s personal and professional life. Going to the dentist to correct any dental problems and returning for regular checkups is the best way to keep your oral health in excellent shape. And doing so will inevitably shine through your smile and increase your self-esteem.

Getting Checked for Things You Can’t See

Many people may choose not to go to the dentist every six months because they brush and floss religiously, and their teeth and gums appear to be fine. However, even if everything seems good on the surface, you never know what underlying dental health issues—those which can only be diagnosed by a dentist—are developing in your mouth. Therefore, the safest bet is to attend regular checkups and to get any necessary exams, X-rays, and other simple procedures that can help you stay ahead of potential health issues.

How Age Impacts Your Dental Health

All of your body’s cells, tissues, and organs are impacted by the aging process. The changes that come with age affect every part of your body, and that includes your teeth and gums. Here are some of the most common dental health issues that adults face:

Cavities

Essentially, cavities are caused by bacteria in the mouth that convert sugars and starches into acid. The acid then goes to work at eating away tooth enamel and, thus, cavities form. And these cavities often develop at the tooth’s root because of gum recession.

Moreover, bacteria build-up occurs more easily if you suffer from dry mouth, which can also lead to tooth decay or tooth loss. There are several reasons older adults are more prone than younger people to get dry mouth. For some, it’s simply because of age. For others, it’s due to particular medications they take. And specific health conditions can lead to dry mouth as well.

Gum Disease

Dry mouth is a serious condition because of how critical saliva is to oral health. Saliva helps your gums remain healthy and protects your teeth from decay. So, when your mouth is not producing enough saliva, it can put you at risk for a number of issues. Gum disease, tooth decay, mouth sores, thrush, and difficulty chewing, swallowing, and tasting are some of the most common examples.

Dry Mouth

It’s normal for the salivating glands in your mouth to produce less saliva as you progress in age. But dry mouth more often occurs in older adults as a result of medical problems.

For instance, a wide range of medications can decrease saliva production, including those used to treat pain, depression, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. You can also get dry mouth when undergoing cancer treatment, and many different health conditions (e.g., stroke, diabetes, Sjögren’s syndrome, etc.) can be the culprit.

Some of the most common dental health issues that occur in adults have to do with the gums. In the simplest terms, gum recession refers to when your gum tissue begins separating from your tooth; this exposes the root of your tooth and leaves you more vulnerable to bacteria build-up, which can result in inflammation and decay.

Oral Cancer

Perhaps the most severe dental health condition is oral cancer, which is most common in individuals over the age of 45 and twice as common in men than women. Lifestyle choices can play a big role in the development of oral cancer. People who smoke and/or use other forms of tobacco are the most susceptible. And people who add excessive drinking into the mix increase their risks even more.

But those are not the only factors at play. Poor dental and oral hygiene, regularly taking immunosuppressants, and gum damage from rough teeth, fillings, or dentures can also cause cancer. Certain infections like the human papillomavirus virus (HPV) can be a cause as well.

Overcoming Dental Anxiety

It’s no secret that a lot of children dread going to the dentist. But dental anxiety is also common in adults. Rather than allowing your anxiety to keep you from maintaining your oral health, consider this information and advice:

The Most Common Culprits

There are many reasons why adults struggle with dental anxiety. In most cases, the fear of going to the dentist stems from childhood—usually because of an unpleasant or painful experience that is permanently imprinted on the mind. The good news is that there have been many advances made in dentistry over the last few decades, and most modern dental procedures cause much less pain (if any) than they used to.

Another common culprit of dental anxiety is the fear of needles. A lot of people hate needles in general, while others are afraid that the anesthesia used in a procedure will not be effective. And sometimes, people are simply scared of being embarrassed.

Say, for instance, that you’ve been dealing with a toothache for a while and are hesitant to visit the dentist because you’re embarrassed about your teeth or dread receiving bad news. Don’t worry—the team at Adam Brown DDS doesn’t judge or shame anyone!

Practical Steps to Take

If you’re struggling with dental anxiety, the best thing you can do is speak to your dentist. Chances are whatever is causing your anxiety is something that your dentist has heard many times before. And the only way they can help you is if you explain your fear and remain open to their suggestions.

One thing you can do is to ask your dentist to thoroughly explain each stage of the appointment or procedure at hand so that you can mentally prepare. You could also agree on a stop signal such as raising your index finger or tapping your leg to notify your dentist that you need a break.

Some individuals cannot stand the drilling or buzzing sounds during a dental procedure. If this is the case with you, consider bringing headphones to your appointment. In severe cases of anxiety, nitrous oxide or IV sedation can be administered; but those options are only chosen when the patient agrees to it.

Conclusion

The necessity of going to regular dentist visits doesn’t stop when you enter adulthood. The older you get, the more susceptible you become to dental health problems, and visiting the dentist is the surest way to prevent or mitigate them.

Don’t let dental anxiety keep you from going to the dentist and getting any procedures necessary to keep your teeth and gums healthy. If you’re ready to make your next appointment, or if you have any questions, feel free to contact Adam Brown DDS today!

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Should You Be Smooching Your Dog?

monroe2020-06-11T13:19:15+00:00March 24th, 2020|Oral Health|

We love our pets, and as we find ourselves spending more time at home these days, an upside is being able to hang out with our little (or big) furry friends. But, if you are a dog owner could your oral health be at risk? Studies indicate those sweet doggy kisses we look forward to every day might be negatively impacting our gums and teeth.

Recent research shows that pets, such as dogs and cats, share the same type of bacteria as humans that causes periodontal (or gum) disease. However, despite the fact we share the same or similar oral bacteria, there is no scientific evidence showing that humans can actually develop gum disease directly from a pet. In fact, there have been certain defenses found in the mouths of humans that actually combat outside germs, such as those from dogs and cats, and prevent them from developing into gingivitis, cavities, gum disease, etc. But, simply knowing there is a chance of contracting something like gingivitis from your dog means we should look into it more.

Gingivitis is not something anyone wants, as it is a mild form of gum disease that is fairly common among American adults. If you notice your gums beginning to recede and turn white, gingivitis is most likely the culprit. A few other signs include swollen and bleeding gums, even painful irritation and loose teeth. The most common cause of gingivitis is poor oral care, so if you have fallen off the wagon a bit, it’s best to get right back into the routine of brushing and flossing regularly to keep from this uncomfortable situation, especially if you are a pet lover.

The fact is, your dog’s mouth is disgusting and teeming with germs. Simply relying on your body’s own defense systems to keep you healthy may not be wise. And it’s not just your oral health that could be at risk.

What You Could Catch

The odds are slim you will get sick from kissing your pet, but there is still a chance. So what could you catch?

According to the CDC, campylobacteriosis is the most common infection given to humans from their pets. Campylobacteriosis sounds like a good time, but it is actually an infection transmitted by the stool of an animal—an animal that may or may not seem or look sick. As we all know, animals tend to lick their rear-ends causing them to pick up particles of stool into their saliva, and well…there you go.

Once this is transmitted to a human, it can cause diarrhea, fever, and stomach pain.

Giardia is another infection that can be transmitted from our pets. This is a tiny, intestinal parasite that can cause the following:

Diarrhea
Stomach Pain
Nausea
Gas
Vomiting

Giardia is spread by the animal swallowing stool particles containing the parasite and passing it on to you; however, the risk of contracting this infection from your dog or cat is extremely low.

Keeping Your Mouth Clean

The good news is there are ways to build up your own defenses against these nasty infections, and the best way to maintain a healthy relationship with your pet is by maintaining your own oral health. Follow these procedures and keep your mouth clean!

Begin by brushing correctly. The best way is to brush in small, circular motions. This will keep the toothbrush bristles from pushing your gums away from your teeth, which causes irritations that can lead to any of the conditions previously listed.

Floss every day. Flossing is incredibly important for your oral health. This keeps food from resting between your teeth, which begins to rot and aid in gum disease. Floss every morning or at night right before bed. Be sure not to jam the floss down on your gums. Use soft, clean motions, going back and forth. Hit every area between the teeth and rinse with water or mouthwash after.

Watch your diet. Sugary drinks and foods, alcoholic beverages, even fatty meats can all have negative effects on your gums. You don’t necessarily have to cut these things out of your diet completely, but if you are the type of person who enjoys these on a regular basis, try and cut back a bit. At the very least, make sure you brush your teeth right after eating or drinking sugary or fatty substances.

Carolina’s Dental Choice wants you to keep up on your oral health and show your pets the attention they need.

*Source: https://www.self.com/story/kissing-pet-health-effects

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Staff Spotlights: Meet Your Dental Hygienists

monroe2020-06-11T13:20:23+00:00February 24th, 2020|Adam Brown DDS|

At Carolina’s Dental Choice, we know that excellent dentistry is all about the people serving you. A great dental hygienist can truly make all the difference when it comes to how your dental experience will go. Your hygienist will spend the most time working one-to-one with you, developing your baseline and initial care plan, and assessing your overall oral health and conditions related to your oral health. Because our hygienists are dedicated to providing quality dental care and getting to know their patients, we figured that our patients should get to know our hygienists.

Without further adieu, meet your Carolina’s Dental Choice hygienists, Kristi Eudy, RDH, and Donna Young, RDH.

What inspired you to choose dentistry? How did you come into healthcare?

Kristi: Growing up, I was actually one of those kids that loved going to the dentist! I was never afraid of a dental appointment, and I really liked my dental hygienist. She was a big inspiration for why I chose this field.

When I was in college, I was exploring another career path and finding that it wasn’t my thing. So after I went to UNCC for a year, I had a dentist appointment and my hygienist chatted with me about her career and why she entered the field, and that’s how I came to pursue dental hygiene! I love that my career comes back to having a really great experience with my own hygienist.

Donna: When I was a student at Wingate University, I took a part-time job cleaning dental patient rooms after treatment and working sterilization. The dental assistant actually started training and teaching me more about the field. The more time I spent there, it became clear to me that I really wanted to pursue dental hygiene. After I finished my Bachelor of Science at Wingate, I went onto dental hygiene school, obtained my license, and I’ve worked here ever since!

What’s the best part of your day?

Kristi: The best part of my day is making my patients smile and ensuring that they leave happy from our office. Even just a cleaning can make such a difference in a patient’s day; it’s so rewarding to see how a smile they’re confident in can bring out their personality.

Donna: The best part of my day, by far, is interacting with my patients! Sometimes it may be catching up on what has been going on in their lives the past six months, or sharing joys and concerns. It’s like reconnecting with longtime friends. The rewarding part is when trust is established in a relationship with a patient. Then, you have the opportunity to be real. I think patients appreciate that. They appreciate the truth, especially when it comes from an honest place.

And best of all, it’s rewarding to know I made a difference in someone’s smile, which speaks volumes.

How do you make people more comfortable at the dentist?

Kristi: At the start of an appointment, I always talk to my patients and assess if they have any fears about the dental visit. For example, if someone has a deadly fear of needles, I assure them that the appointment won’t include any needles, and the patient can see what equipment we’ll be using before we start actually using it. Just talking patients through what the appointment will entail can make them more at ease. We want to ensure our patients are comfortable for their entire experience, so if you’re ever uncomfortable or unsure about something, let your hygienist know!

Donna: The fear of dentistry is real! Dental anxiety could stem from something someone told them about the dentist or a bad experience as a kid, but we’re here to make our patients comfortable, ease them into the appointment, and talk them through their experience while they’re with us. Most often, I help talk patients through their fear. The biggest way to make our patients more comfortable is simply by talking to them.

Best dental product or technique you’d recommend?

Kristi: I recommend an electric toothbrush for all of our patients! An electric toothbrush tends to remove more plaque from your gums and teeth without you having to do more work. Even if you’re brushing thoroughly with a manual toothbrush, an electric toothbrush covers more hard-to-reach places and does a better job overall.

Donna: My top recommendations are electric toothbrushes and flossing. I really like the Oral B electric toothbrush; it does so much more than a manual brush can do. Flossing might sound simple, but it does so much more for your oral health than people think it does. There are many effective dental tools available for use, but they should be used in addition to a quality electric toothbrush and daily flossing.

Any tips or tricks for children to have better dental routines?

Kristi: I like setting a timer on their phone or having some sort of hourglass in the bathroom for brushing their teeth. Then, as long as the timer or hourglass is going, they have to brush their teeth. You want them to brush their teeth for at least 2 minutes, and make sure they brush their teeth at least every morning and every night.

Donna: I always recommend to parents that when their children are old enough to sit in a tub, to give them an age-appropriate toothbrush to hold. Kids might chew on a toothbrush and get used to the feel of it in their mouth, and adapt to the feel of toothbrush in their hand.

I also like the idea of parents and children making a routine of brushing their teeth, side-by-side, together! Maybe put on a song for the duration of brushing, and really make it a positive routine for the child. It’s important not to skip a night of brushing your child’s teeth because you’re tired or heading to bed late because then it becomes easier to fall out of routine.

So my advice overall is to always start young with your children and be consistent! And don’t forget to visit the dentist sooner rather than later with your young children, especially for preventative care – don’t wait until they have a problem to go to the dentist for the first time!

What’s a misconception that people have about dental hygiene?

Kristi: I think a common misconception is that people see us as an elective. We’re not always treated along the same line as other careers in the medical field, and I think people tend to think of hygienists in the cosmetic side, rather than as a necessity. But being a dental hygienist is so much more than plaque and tartar being scraped off every six months – dental hygiene correlates directly to the health of your whole body, not just what’s in your mouth.

Donna: Some people think we’re just cleaning their teeth, but in reality, dental hygiene is truly preventative care for much larger issues they could encounter down the road. We’re doing a whole lot more than cleaning off what you can’t do with your toothbrush.

What’s a cool part of your job that most people don’t know about? /What do you wish people knew about your position?

Kristi: Dental hygienists are always learning! We’re required to take six hours of continuing education a year in North Carolina, that you can do online or in the classroom. I’m one of those people that would be a perpetual student if I could, so being a dental hygienist means I always get to pursue my love of learning. Outside of those six hours, I also like to read weekly updates from the Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) Magazine and Dimensions of Dental Hygiene journal.

Donna: I think what’s cool is really becoming engaged with the patient and their life, and their families. You develop deep relationships with people. I’ve been a hygienist here for 22 years and I’ve seen patients, watched their children grow, and experienced whole generations in this practice. We get to know our patients as real people and become part of their lives too – we’re not just working in their mouth every six months. It’s really incredible. Plus, when we get to know people and serve them for that many years, you already know their likes and dislikes when they’re in the chair and we can just work seamlessly together.

What’s the next big thing that makes you excited about dentistry?

Kristi: I’m really looking forward to sub-gingival air polishing! It probably doesn’t sound very cool or mean anything to people outside of dentistry, but it’s exciting because it actually goes below the gum line to remove the biofilm that hangs out under the gums and the base of the pockets. A lot of the continuing courses I take are talking more and more about this, and I’m hoping we’ll be able to implement it soon into our own bio-film removal processes.

Donna: That’s a tough question! It’s hard to pinpoint one specific thing because dentistry is always changing, and we’re constantly learning better techniques to serve our patients, and learning about new products to be more in tune with our patients’ needs. Honestly, the constant change and innovation in the field is what makes dentistry exciting to me!

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Water: The Best Beverage for Your Health

monroe2020-06-11T13:20:37+00:00February 24th, 2020|General, Oral Health|

It is remarkable the role water plays in our lives when you stop and think about it. Hydrating ourselves has become so habitual it’s second nature to fill a glass of water and chug it down. But do you ever stop and think about the importance water plays in our lives? And as it turns out, more and more people are thinking about the importance of hydration these days, and rightly so since our bodies are made up of 60% water and it is a necessary component to our survival.

In a recent episode of “Man vs Wild” host and survivalist, Bear Grylls mentioned what he called “The Rule of 3s,” which is this: humans can survive three weeks without food, three days without water, three hours without shelter, and three minutes without oxygen.

One of the most famous football players to ever play the game, Tom Brady, claims to drink anywhere from 14 to 37 glasses of water a day! Of course, he is a professional athlete, and this could be highly dangerous for a non-athlete to drink this much, but Brady’s water intake is just another indication of the importance of drinking water.

Despite what we know about the important relationship we, humans, have with H20 there are still those who fail to see the necessity for regular hydration. Even those of us who do drink water every day, we are probably not drinking enough. Part of the problem is most people know water is important, but they don’t really know why. Sure, it hydrates—but what does that even mean? How much water does it take to be hydrated? And is that all water does—are there other benefits?

What role, more specifically than, “important!” does water play in our lives? In particular, what is its effect on our oral health?

The Basics

Here are just a few of the important things water does when we drink it:

Creates Saliva. Saliva is mostly water mixed with electrolytes, enzymes, and mucus and it helps breakdown food particles and keeps your mouth healthy. By drinking water, on a regular basis, you are able to maintain the correct amounts of saliva in the mouth. As we get older, however, the amount of saliva in our mouths begins to reduce, which is all the more reason to drink water—even more of it as we get older.
Regulates Body Temperature. When we get hot, either from weather conditions or physical excursion, our bodies begin to sweat as a method of cooling the body temperature down. The sweat produced is from the water in our bodies, and if we do not replenish that water we become dehydrated. This is why it’s so important to drink plenty of water when you find yourself sweating.
Helps Protect Your Body. Water actually lubricates your cushions your joints, spinal cord, and body tissues. This, in turn, helps to keep your body young and spry and helps keep you from becoming injured during physical activity.
Aids in Ridding Your Body of Waste. Our bodies need water in order to sweat, urinate, and have bowel movements. By drinking plenty of water, your kidneys are better able to break down waste so that it can be properly excreted.
Allows for Maximum Physical Performance. While performing in physical activity, it is common for the body to perspire up to six to ten percent of body weight. Drinking water during these times keeps your body regulated. Water also keeps up your strength and endurance while performing.

Exercising without hydrating can be fatal. Blood pressure can decrease, hyperthermia can set in, and in extreme cases, extreme dehydration can cause seizures.

Keeps You Regular. A healthy intake of fiber helps prevent constipation, but drinking plenty of water is important as well. Bowel movements need to contain a certain amount of water in order for the movement to work successfully (that is, ridding your body of waste left over from what has been taken in). Without enough H20, constipation can set in.

*(Tip: if you are experiencing constipation, drinking carbonated water can help.)

Aids in Digestion. Experts have recently confirmed that drinking water before, during, and after a meal will help your body break down food more easily, which helps your body successfully pull out the most nutrients.
Helps You Lose Weight. Studies show that, particularly for young girls and women, drinking plenty of water helps the body rid itself of extra fat cells. So drinking water while dieting is even more powerful, which is why it’s so important to have a glass of water before, during, and after every meal—even if that meal is a healthy one.

The list of benefits to staying hydrated goes on and on, and as experts pay more attention to the effects of water on our health, even more revelations come to light. Let’s take a closer look at the effects water has on our teeth.

Water and Your Teeth

Drinking water, on a regular basis, actually strengthens your teeth. What’s more, drinking water with fluoride is one of the easiest ways to prevent cavities (but more on fluoride in a bit).

By keeping your mouth hydrated, you are able to strengthen the teeth by keeping them clean and clear from leftover food particles, which can cause decay and disease. Water will also wash away excess sugar left over from meals or drinks. This sugar, when left in the mouth, can combine with other chemicals to create a dangerous acid that eats away at the enamel on your teeth. But a quick glass of water can keep this from happening—remember, water before, during, and after each meal!

The same goes for the gums inside your mouth as well. Food and the chemicals from the food we eat love to attach themselves to our gums. This is why it’s a good idea to swish the water around in your mouth when you drink, especially after meals.

Fluoride: A Dangerous Chemical, or A helpful Agent?

It’s tasteless, odorless, and it prevents tooth decay—it even has whitening agents to help keep your smile nice and bright. So why would anyone want to remove fluoride from water? Well, ever since the mass introduction of fluoride into our pubic water systems back in the 1940s, there just hasn’t been much hubbub about it. Sure, there have been the naysayers since the beginning, but they never got loud enough to cause any real question. But now, in 2020, new findings are being revealed about the effects of fluoride, and the information coming to light may be worth your time.

What really seems to have gotten people to start questioning the benefits of fluoride is the popularity of home water filtration systems. People are becoming much smarter about their health these days, and the foundation for any healthy human being is a pure water source. At the same time we want to keep healthy, we also want to reduce our use of plastics, which has caused many to look elsewhere for freshwater, besides buying plastic bottles every week.

What Studies Show Us About Fluoride

According to the Harvard Public Health Magazine, a study done shows that fluoride does indeed help prevent tooth decay from children; however, there was absolutely no evidence that it had any positive effects on adults. The study also indicated that the research done back when fluoride was first introduced (the 1940s) is quite flawed, which indicates we don’t have clear evidence for the overall effectiveness of this (natural) chemical added to our water.

The Harvard article goes on to question that just because we have superficial evidence of fluoride helping to prevent tooth decay and cavities—for youngsters, at least—why are we drinking it? By ingesting fluoride we are allowing it into our bloodstreams, our brains! We are, and have been for some time, drinking a chemical of which we do not know everything about. Could there be negative side effects we’ve been living with for years?

The Good and the Bad

The truth is we just don’t know enough about the effects of fluoride—which does seem a bit ridiculous, as we have been incorporating it into our diets for decades. But, we can give a quick breakdown of what we do know. Here’s what is good about using fluoride:

As mentioned above, it has been proven to help prevent tooth decay.
It protects from cavities.
Even though we do not know a lot about the effects of fluoride, in the past seventy years of its implementation, it has been endorsed by numerous U.S. Surgeons General, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the American Medical Association, and the American Academy of Pediatrics.
It saves money and trips to the dentist.
Fluoride, in and of itself, is a natural chemical found in groundwater and the ocean.

Now, here’s the bad:

Excessive intake can cause Dental Fluorosis. This can visibly show as white spots on the teeth, or in more serious cases, as brown spots that can weaken the teeth.
Ingesting excess amounts of fluoride can also cause skeletal Fluorosis. This type of fluorosis is actually a bone disease created by an accumulation of fluoride in the bone and is known to be very painful.
In some cases, taking in excess amounts of fluoride has caused major thyroid problems.

The Result

Research on the effects of fluoride seems to be a bit shaky. But even though reports conflict—some say it’s useful for children but of no use for adults, while others say it’s good for all—Carolina’s Dental Choice does have some advice for you:

Don’t overdo it. If you have fluoride in your water, maybe get toothpaste that doesn’t have it.
Try incorporating fluoride-free water into your diet as a change and see if you notice any differences.
Since this is a topic growing in popularity, it’s a good idea to keep up on what research has been, and continues to be, done.
See your dentist. The most important thing to do is see a professional who can look at your teeth and their reaction with fluoride and then advise on what to do moving forward.

If you have any questions regarding your water intake, or the effects fluoride is having on your oral health, don’t hesitate to contact us at Carolina’s Dental Choice. And in the meantime, keep drinking water!

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