Aching Joints Linked To Oral Bacteria

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There is new evidence suggesting that the same microorganisms responsible for chronic inflammatory gingivitis may also trigger rheumatoid arthritis. The latest research from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore has implications for the prevention and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

Periodontal disease and rheumatoid arthritis may by closely associated, as research indicates common factors that may link these two conditions. The John Hopkins team discovered that a process found in the joints of patients with rheumatoid arthritis called hypercitrullination, which regulates protein function, was also noted in the gingiva of patients with periodontitis. Although this is a natural process, it becomes overactive in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. This results in proteins that drive the production of inflammatory-inducing antibodies that attack tissues.

If you have a genetic susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis, then you may also be linked to an increased risk of gingivitis or periodontal disease.

 

New Year, New Smile: Achieve Optimal Oral and Overall Health

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Your Dental Team: Partners In Oral Health

Whether you have excellent oral health routines at home or not, regular trips to our office help ensure you maintain or achieve optimal oral and overall health.

The New Year is the perfect time to kick-start oral practices that will lead you to a confident smile and improved health.

Here are a few reasons why regular visits to the dentist are imperative:

  1. Plaque and tartar build up on your teeth, which could lead to gum disease. This tartar can’t be removed at home.
  2. Gingivitis and periodontal are diseases that pose a real threat to your oral health. We thoroughly check for any signs and keep your gums healthy.
  3. Oral cancer can be effectively treated if caught early. We know what to look for and can keep an eye on any spots that might look threatening.
  4. Crooked and crowded teeth are hard to keep clean and healthy, which is why we are here to help and ensure no decay occurs.
  5. Tooth decay can occur in anyone and if left unchecked can lead to more and more tooth decay. Regular appointments help us find that decay early and treat is as soon as possible to prevent further damage..

So if your New Year’s Resolution is to live a healthier lifestyle, then you better give us a call! Oral health IS the key to becoming more healthy!

More About Power Toothbrushes

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Power toothbrushes can help you do a better job of cleaning your teeth.

They get rid of more plaque from your teeth than a manual toothbrush.

There are two main types of power toothbrushes on the market: oscillating (rotating) and sonic (side-to-side).

oscillating-rotating power toothbrush - brian zuerlein dental - omaha cosmetic dentistOscillating-Rotating:

This kind of power toothbrush has a small, round brush head that oscillates back and forth in a circular motion to help remove plaque. A small brush head can be very good for cleaning the hard-to-reach areas of your mouth. When using an oscillating-rotating toothbrush, you should gently move the brush head from tooth to tooth, letting the brush do the cleaning.

sonic power toothbrush - brian zuerlein - omaha cosmetic dentistSonic:

This kind of power toothbrush uses a vibrating side-to-side cleaning motion to remove plaque. The shape of this brush head is a lot like a manual toothbrush.

Quick Facts:

  • Power toothbrushes provide a powered mechanical cleaning action to help remove plaque
  • There are 2 main kinds of power toothbrushes: oscillating-rotating and sonic
  • Power toothbrushes can include helpful features such as brushing timers, pressure sensors, brushing modes and specialized brush heads
  • A power toothbrush removes more plaque and improves gum health better than a regular toothbrush can

Ask us today how a power toothbrush can help you!

Gum Disease and Inflammation

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Dr. Jared Bolding - Bolding Dentistry - Omaha Preventative Dentistry

There is an evidenced link between periodontitis (gum disease) and other health issues. If you have chronic inflammation you are a higher incidence of gum disease.

It might be a casual relationship between gum disease and other health issues, however we aren’t 100% sure yet. All we know is that if you have chronic inflammatory disease, your chance of having other health issues increases significantly.

So what can you do? Keep a daily routine of brushing at least twice and flossing once and ensure regular dental hygiene visits.

Why Are The Frequency Of Teeth Cleaning Appointments Important?

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The Frequency of Teeth Cleanings

Your teeth should be cleaned as often as your hygienist or dentist recommends it for your particular dental needs, the health of your gums and teeth.

The frequency is determined on the severity of your gum health and how effective you are at home care. Essentially, the more you take care of your teeth at home, the less likely you are to need more than 2 routine dental hygiene cleanings per year.

Dental insurance plans only pay for two cleanings a year, but we urge you to not let your dental insurance dictate how many cleanings you should have. What they are willing to pay for has nothing to do with the frequency that our office determines for your individual dental needs.

At Brian Zuerlein Dental, we are more than happy to help you determine the best course of treatment on a case-by-case basis, as well as work with you on any dental insurance issues that might arise.

Our goal is to help you keep your teeth healthy for a life-time, it is proven that your overall health is affected by gum disease.

Help us, help you achieve your best and healthiest smile!

4 Natural Teeth Whitening Solutions For A Whiter Smile

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Even if you’ve been using our at-home bleaching treatments and seeing great results, it is important to make sure you are also practicing good oral hygiene as well as using natural teeth whitening solutions.

1) Drink Water

This one may seem obviously, however it is commonly missed. Drinking water helps wash away any food debris and potential stain causing particles.

2) Eat Strawberries

Strawberries have what is called malic acid. Malic acid helps remove discoloration on your teeth.

3) Eat Dairy

Dairy products, like milk, cheese and yogurt have calcium, which promotes strong bones and teeth. However, what you might not know if dairy helps fight off any harmful bacteria in your mouth.

4) Eat Crunchy Fruits and Veggies

Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, celery and carrots are natural stain removers, increasing saliva production and helping to wash away debris.

These 4 natural teeth whitening solutions do work over time and are great practices to go along with our at-home professional teeth-whitening solution.

Contact us today and get one step closer to a whiter smile!

The Effects Of Bruxism or Teeth Grinding

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What Is Bruxism?

Bruxism or teeth grinding, is the habitual grinding and clenching of teeth that typically occurs at night.

There are varying levels of teeth grinding. Severe bruxism can lead to jaw disorders, headaches, damaged teeth and other problems. Milder cases might not require treatment.

It is important to be able to identify the causes and symptoms in order to address it.

The Causes:

  • Stress, Anger, Frustration or Tension
  • Abnormal alignment of upper and lower teeth (malocclusion)
  • Sleep Apnea
  • Acid Reflux
  • A Focusing Habit

The Signs and Symptoms:

  • Teeth grinding or clenching
  • Teeth that are flattened, fractured, chipped or loose
  • Worn tooth enamel, exposing deeper layers of your tooth
  • Increased tooth sensitivity often resulting in tooth recession
  • Jaw or face pain or soreness
  • Tired or tight jaw muscles
  • Dull headache
  • Damage from chewing on the inside of your cheek
  • Indentations on your tongue

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or are concerned you may be suffering from bruxism, we can help you address this condition with a custom fitted night guard. Ask us at your next appointment!

Keep Your Child’s Smile Protected With A Mouthguard

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Prevent Childhood Mouth Injuries and Trauma With A Mouthguard

A mouthguard is the first line of defense against dental emergencies and should be worn whenever your child is participating in sports or other recreational activities.

Studies show that athletes are 60 times more likely to suffer harm to the teeth if they are not wearing any form of protection, which could be offered with a mouthgaurd. This applies to more than just contact sports. Activities like gymnastics and skating run the risk of dental injury as well. This is especially important if your child has braces or any types of orthodontic work.

The best mouthguard is one that has been custom-made to fit your child’s mouth by your dentist. We are happy to discuss your options when it comes to mouthgaruds and protecting your child’s mouth again s sports related trauma.

To Floss or Not To Floss: The Goal Is To Remove Plaque

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Importance Of Flossing - Omaha Cosmetic Dentist - Dr. Bolding

Importance Of Flossing - Omaha Cosmetic Dentist - Dr. Bolding

Why floss might not be enough in the removal of plaque, but cleaning between teeth is still critical.

We want to address the recent articles, news reports, and social media blog posts regarding the need to floss and the lack of scientific evidence to support it’s benefits.

This is what we do know:

  • Brushing alone is not enough.
  • A majority of people are flossing ineffectively if they floss at all.
  • People DO need to clean between their teeth.
  • Disruption of plague is the end goal.
  • We need to find easier and more effective ways to help patients clean between their teeth.

At this office, we have always recommended the Airflosser, Waterpik and Power Brushes to our patients as a means to remove plaque from your teeth. These methods are more effective at removing plaque if they are being effectively used.

We also recommend fluoride treatments and take home fluoride for adults, which is another way to reduce decay and tooth sensitivity.

Now, we are NOT telling you there is no need to floss or clean between your teeth. You need to remove the plaque buildup that occurs between your teeth in some manner to prevent inflammation (gingivitis) and tooth decay. We have several tools we can recommend to help accomplish this.

Regular oral hygiene appointments will also serve great benefit in addressing issues early. We know there is a direct correlation between your oral health and your overall health.

Is Snoring Keeping You Up At Night?

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Correct Snoring and Sleep Apnea - Brian Zuerlein DDS - Omaha Cosmetic Dentist

Correct Snoring and Sleep Apnea - Brian Zuerlein DDS - Omaha Cosmetic Dentist

Do you or someone you love snore? Does snoring keep you up a night?

Dr. Bolding is a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, specializing in snore appliance therapy and sleep apnea.

Here are some facts about snoring:

  • Researchers have found increased risk of stroke and heart attack.
  • Whole families including young children can snore.
  • Virtually all those who snore associate sleep loss with impaired work performance.
  • Snoring by a spouse or partner is the leading reason for sleep loss.

A solution to end snoring may be a well-made, well-fitted dental appliance. Contact our office today for a complimentary evaluation!