Unfortunately, it’s a stressful world, even for youngsters.  So Dr. Thomas Gibbs recommends regular brushing and flossing and a deep relaxing breath!!!

Film Dental x-rays, what are those??? Do people still use film???  X-ray systems from the 1960???  We are living in the year 2012!!!

First off, we use “Digital” x-rays not film. The new digital sensors are so sensitive they require less radiation to generate an image. At Dr. Thomas Gibbs dental office we wanted to do some research on the dental x-ray systems we use. So, I called the dental x-ray companies and got the radiation exposure dosage that a person would get if we take the normal four bitewings.  At Dr. Thomas Gibbs office we take bitewings once a year and we take the panoramic full mouth x-ray once every five years. Once a year for the four bitewings you would be exposed to 20 microsieverts (how radiation is measured).  When you get the panoramic x-ray once every five years you would be exposed to 16.1 microsieverts.  These numbers are about 50% lower then film based x-rays, which make them much safer and make the risk of potentially harmful effects extremely small.

Every day we get questions about radiation exposure before we take the x-rays, and we love explaining to our patients, how advanced technology in digital dental x-rays have become.  So I am going to leave with a little information provided by the ADA- American Dental Association.

“The whole-body radiation exposure associated with four bitewing radiographs is approximately 38 microsieverts, for example.  By comparison, an airplane flight at 39,000 feet is associated with an exposure of about 5 microsieverts per hour.  This means the exposure during a set of four bitewing radiographs is roughly equivalent to a seven-hour flight.  These estimates are based on traditional film–based x-rays; many digital x-ray systems may require even less radiation.”

When looking at the digital system we use in our office, you would only have to fly four hours to get the same amount of radiation exposure as the four bitewing digital x-rays. So, when you take your children to Florida for vacation from Chicago the round trip will give you 30 microsieverts, less then what four digital bitewings would give you.

By studying the genetics in sharks and humans, scientists have discovered that a single gene exists in humans that actually PREVENT the regeneration of new teeth.  This gene ensures that our set of adult teeth is our only permanent set.

But when researchers bred mice that lacked the gene that prevents regeneration of new teeth, the rodent developed extra teeth next to their first molars — the same “spares” that sharks and other non-mammals grow.  These studies may help reveal how humans might be able to generate new teeth when a permanent tooth is lost.  Instead of getting partials, implants or even dentures we may someday be able to grow brand new teeth!!

10. A chicken bone

9.  Parts of a pen

8.  Interesting lip tattoos

7.  Pet hair

6.  The patient’s own dental techniques.  For example super glue and wire to hold broken loose teeth in place.

5.  Fragment of a blasting cap

4.  Fingernails

3.  Hot Wheels tire

2.  Insects; DEAD and ALIVE

1.  A blinking LED light installed in a patients tooth.

Another great source for fighting tooth decay or unhealthy dental issues, is Vitamin D. Vitamin D is a like an unsung hero because little attention is payed to it, but it aids in some very serious health issues. As far as dental issues are concerned, vitamin D dental caries speaks for itself. Both fluoride and vitamin D are great for teeth and gums, but vitamin D goes behind the teeth and into the rest of the body to do you good.

Vitamin D is known for promoting bone health, but it also helps combat heart disease and even cancer. It seems that we have overlooked it’s oral health benefits, but as studies have shown, there is definitely a link between healthier teeth and those who live in sunny areas. Since vitamin D comes from the sun naturally, we are getting a boost to our health from head to toe without having to do anything or pay anything. What a great incentive to spend time outside! You can be directly involved with your oral health by taking in the sun. The result of exposure is vitamin D dental caries.

Rather than receiving treatment for an ailment, it is much better to avoid the ailment and do all you can to prevent it. Oral health is very important. Adding some extra sun into your day or incorporating extra vitamin D are much better options than the alternatives: increased dental visits, possibly surgery, fillings, etc. It is not recommended that fluoride be increased in this way. Fluoridated water will not provide the health benefits that vitamin D can.

It is not just about vitamin D dental caries, but about what vitamin D can do for your overall health. Avoiding oral health issues is an added plus to having a healthier heart, stronger bones, and preventing numerous issues that will consume your money and your wellness. When the sun smiles on you, you can smile back because you are reaping from the healthy rays.

Even if you’re just afraid your breath might smell, wouldn’t you rather be sure before you go out on a date? We have tips for any Glen Ellyn resident to use before, during, or after any activity they have planned this holiday.

Mouthwash

Dr. Gibbs recommends that you use a mouthwash as part of your daily teeth-cleaning system, and you can also rinse your mouth anytime you feel a bout of bad breath coming on. You have to be very careful when selecting a mouth rinse, however: many are simply cosmetic, briefly covering up smells without getting at the root of the problem.

When you are trying to choose a mouthwash, there are a few things to look for. Pay close attention to the alcohol content, because more than a 20 percent concentration can actually increase bad breath by further drying out your mouth. Also, pH balanced products are better, which includes anything with a pH of about 5.5 or higher. Brands that fit within these guidelines include CariFree®, Cepacol®, and Act®.

Mints and Gums

If you would prefer to use a mint or a gum, you should make sure that the first ingredient is xylitol, a natural sweetener that does not harm teeth the way common sugar does and may actually prevent cavities from forming. Here at Smile Glen Ellyn, our favorites are Tic Tac® Chill mints, Spry® mints and gums, and Trident® gums.

Don’t forget that while it is not bad to cover up foul-smelling breath, you need to make sure that Dr. Gibbs is aware of this problem so that we can rule out any serious diseases that may cause this condition.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. Dr. Gibbs’ office is working to celebrate healthy teeth for all of our young patients this month. The American Dental Association (ADA) and dental professionals across the country work together every February to educate our communities on the importance of developing early healthy dental hygiene routines.

Dr. Thomas Gibbs and his staff are working to teach children the basic of oral health, the dangers of sweets and sugars, and the benefits of regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Developing strong dental habits at a young age, like brushing their teeth at least twice a day and flossing once a day, can ensure a beautiful, healthy smile that will last a lifetime.

For the entire month of February, children are invited to Dr. Thomas R. Gibbs Dental Office for a FREE oral health screening and complimentary dental health care kit. Stop by and visit our team to book your child’s appointment!

For more information about National Children’s Dental Health Month, or to book your child’s appointment, please contact Dr. Thomas Gibbs Dental Office today!

630.858.8800
650 Roosevelt Rd
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
www.SmileGlenEllyn.com

No one wants to have bad breath on Valentine’s day right? Smile Glen Ellyn wants to explain where stinky breath comes from and what Glen Ellyn and Wheaton residents can do to keep it from ruining their romantic moments.

Dry Mouth = Bad Breath

There are many things that could contribute to a dry mouth, such as how long it has been since you’ve eaten or drank, what you last ate or drank, the amount of physical activity you’ve participated in, or even what time of day it is. Other factors can include medication, systemic diseases, body chemistry, and overall health.

Halitosis affects nearly everyone in the population at some point in their lives and is estimated to be the third leading cause for dental appointments. Dr. Gibbs is certainly no stranger to discussing this issue, so don’t be afraid to mention it at your appointment. Bad breath is not a new problem either: there are historical records mentioning it dating all the way back to 1550 BC.

How to Know if You Have Bad Breath

A huge problem with bad breath is simply figuring out whether or not you have it. If you are too scared to ask your dentist or hygienist at our Glen Ellyn location, you can also check with a trusted friend or family member. If that is still too intimidating, try licking your wrist or scraping the back of your tongue with a plastic spoon, waiting a minute for it to dry and then smelling the results. Keep in mind that self-tests only give approximations and that your breath changes hundreds of times throughout the day.

If you have breath that is extremely foul or persistent, it may be a sign of a serious underlying medical issue. At your appointment our Smile Glen Ellyn staff will be able to rule out any life-threatening causes and help you discover ways to treat the problems.

So You Have Bad Breath

You have officially figured out that you have bad breath. Now what? The best solution is, as always, to maintain a proper dental hygiene routine, but you can’t brush your teeth all day every day. When you brush your teeth, don’t forget to clean off your tongue, where 80-90% of all bad breath issues reside.

Sipping water is the perfect way to keep your mouth from drying out and it encourages salivary flow as well. Stay away from offending foods such as garlic, onions, fish and cheese. If you do eat one of these, or find that your breath is suddenly stinky, use a mint, mouthwash, or gum. See our next blog post for which brands Dr. Gibbs recommends the most!

Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that affects the tissues and the bone in the mouth that support teeth. Periodontal disease causes the tissue to pull away from each tooth. When periodontal disease worsens, the gum tissue and bone begin to disintegrate, causing tooth loss.

How do I know if I have periodontal disease?

Signs and symptoms of periodontal disease include:
- Gums that bleed when you brush your teeth or floss.
- Red, swollen or tender gums.
- Gums that have pulled away from your teeth.
- Bad breath that doesn’t go away.
- Loose or spreading teeth.

You can have periodontal disease without any signs or symptoms. Routine checkups and cleanings are important because it makes it possible for Dr. Gibbs and your hygienist to catch and treat periodontal disease at its early stages.

What do you mean by early stages of periodontal disease?

Healthy Gums: Gum tissue and bone hold teeth firmly in place.

Gingivitis: Swelling and inflammation of the gums. Bacteria toxin irritates the gum tissues causing them to be tender, swollen to the touch and likely to bleed easily.

Periodontitis: Loss of tissue and bone. As the disease progresses, pockets tend to become deeper, allowing plaque to build up below the gum line.

Advanced Periodontits: Severe damage to supporting tissues and bone. If the disease is not treated, gum tissue and bone is destroyed. Teeth become loose and may fall out or require removal.

If you can have periodontal disease without sign or symptoms, how can the doctor tell that I have it?

When you come in for your routine checkup, Dr. Gibbs or the hygienist will examine your gums. A periodontal probe is used to measure the depth of the pockets surrounding each tooth. This probe can indicate whether you have developed any pocket depths that are deeper than what is considered healthy. If it is determined that you have periodontal disease, dental X-rays will be used to show if any bone loss occurred.

How did I get periodontal disease in the first place?

Healthy gum tissue hugs around each tooth. As tartar and bacteria film develops on teeth, it produces toxins that can irritate and break down the oral tissue and bone. If daily home care and 6 month routine checkups are not consistent, the toxins can inflame the gums.

Now that I found out I have periodontal disease, how can I treat it?

Periodontal treatment depends on the type and severity of the disease. If the disease is caught at an early age (gingivitis), you may simply have a professional cleaning. The hygienist will also give you instructions on how to improve your daily oral maintenance.

In later stages of periodontal disease, it may require a special cleaning called scaling and root planing. In this procedure, plaque and tartar are removed from underneath the gum-line. Scaling and root planing smoothes the tooth’s surface so the gum tissue can heal and reattach to the tooth.

So, I had my recommended procedure to get rid of my periodontal disease… Am I cured?

Periodontal disease is not 100% curable. However, Dr. Gibbs and your hygienist can help prevent it from coming back! Once your periodontal treatment is complete, your hygienist may recommend that you visit more often for cleanings and checkups than the average 6 months.

Home care is also important to keep periodontal disease from coming back or becoming more serious. Brushing and flossing twice a day is all it takes. Your hygienist can also advise for you to buy a SoniCare (electronic toothbrush) to help you reduce tartar buildup.

The WaterPik Water Flosser may also be suggested by your hygienist. Waterpik provides a unique combination of water pressure and pulsation to massage and stimulate gums. It cleans deep between teeth and below the gum line where traditional string floss can’t reach.
 

What if I opt not to get periodontal therapy?

Your oral health may affect, be affected by or contribute to various diseases and conditions including: diabetes, heart disease, HIV, cancer, Endocarditis, premature birth and low birth weights, Osteoporosis and some eating disorders are linked with oral health problems.

What is Hydrogen Peroxide?

Hydrogen peroxide is a common household product that can be found for very cheap at your local pharmacy or grocery store.Chemically, it is two oxygen molecules with two oxygen molecules, and it appears as a clear liquid with about the consistency of water. In the solution you can find in stores, it is diluted with water to only 3%.

1) To Ease a Toothache

If one of your teeth starts to hurt and you can’t make it to our Glen Ellyn office right away, try putting a capful of hydrogen peroxide in your mouth and holding it there for ten minutes, then spitting it out. This can be repeated several times a day until the pain subsides.

Much of the pain people experience in toothaches is caused by swelling and infection, which hydrogen peroxide helps fight. However, remember that this should only be used as a short term solution and you should see Dr. Gibbs as soon as possible.

2) To Help Treat Gingivitis

Hydrogen peroxide is a great way to kill germs, and germs are the force that leads to gingivitis. After you floss and brush your teeth, vigorously swish with an ounce of hydrogen peroxide, making sure to get all of the gum lines, including behind the upper lip. Swish for 5 or 6 seconds, then spit the chemical out and rinse with water.

3) To Clean Your Toothbrush

Once a week or more, soak your toothbrush bristles in a freshly poured cup of hydrogen peroxide. After about five seconds, watch it bubble as it kills the germs!

Leave your toothbrush in the cup for a few minutes to ensure it is properly cleaned, then rinse it off with water. Make sure to always use a fresh cup of hydrogen peroxide, as the chemical degrades when it’s exposed to light.

4) As a Toothpaste Substitute

Ever forget to buy toothpaste and find yourself without even that last little bit? Mix together one part hydrogen peroxide to four parts baking soda and brush your teeth with that. It may be a little grittier than you’re used to, but it works in mostly the same way.

Don’t forget though, that hydrogen peroxide degrades with light, so you can’t make large batches of this solution to store for later use.

5) To Propel a Rocket

Okay, so you can’t actually do this with the diluted, 3% concentration of hydrogen peroxide that is sold at stores. And you certainly shouldn’t put rockets in your mouth. But the chemical was used at 70-98% concentrations to propel rockets during World War II, and is still used for some satellites. How cool is that?