Smile Video

 

Study: Brushing your teeth leads to healthier heart

German scientists presented a study yesterday in Vienna, Austria, that confirms a genetic link between gum disease and heart disease.

The association between periodontitis and coronary heart disease has been known for years, but a genetic link between the conditions hadn’t been confirmed.


Dr.Michael Mostofi
Aliso Viejo Dentist
www.HealthySmile360.com
949-831-5511

New Target In Fight Against Osteoporosis, Periodontitis Identified By Dental Researchers

In a paper published May 17 in the online edition of the journal Nature Medicine, Cun-Yu Wang, who holds UCLA's No-Hee Park Endowed Chair in the dental school's division of oral biology and medicine, and colleagues suggest that inhibiting nuclear factor-kB (NF-kB), a master protein that controls genes associated with inflammation and immunity, can prevent disabling bone loss by maintaining bone formation.

The findings could offer new hope to millions who struggle with osteoporosis and periodontitis each year. The National Institutes of Health estimates that in the United States alone, more than 10 million people have osteoporosis, and many more have low bone mass, putting them at risk for the disease, as well as for broken bones. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, mild to moderate periodontitis affects a majority of adults, with between 5 and 20 percent of the population suffering from a more severe stage of the disease.

Study Finds a Possible Link Between Denture Cream and Imbalance

Thirty- four million Americans rely on dentures to replace their missing teeth. But a small number of denture wearers have had difficulty with balance and walking -- a medical mystery that some experts have linked to their denture creams

Esthetic and Biomimetic Restorative Dentistry

Our mission for the new year

What is Biomimetic Dentistry ?
Biomimetic Dentistry saves much more of your natural tooth than traditional dentistry. In fact, in traditional dentistry, many times healthy and sound tooth structure has to be removed to place a restoration--as in the placement of a traditional crown. The restorations placed Biomimetically do not require this additional removal of healthy tooth structure. They do, however, require a strict following of a prescribed protocol which insures that the restoration will be a success. That is why we call this technique "Tooth-Conserving" dentistry.
Biomimetic dentistry is an approach where modern technology and engineering attempt to mimic nature. In the case of teeth, that means taking into account the unique shape and color of each patient’s tooth structure, their face and their skin color — not just giving every mouth a set of “perfect” teeth. The result is light-years away from the Chiclet-capped smile of yesteryear. In "Tooth-Conserving" Dentistry, only the portion of the tooth that needs replaced or reinforced to guard from fracture gets treated. And, the tooth is restored in a way that virtually assures that the tooth will not suffer a catastrophic failure in the future. In other words, once restored in this way, the tooth will not hurt, break or need a root canal in the future.

Zoom! Whitening

What is Zoom! tooth whitening?

Zoom! is a bleaching process that lightens discoloration of enamel and dentin. You may have seen the Zoom! process used on ABC’s Extreme Makeover.


How long does Zoom! Chairside Whitening take?
The complete procedure takes less than an hour. The procedure begins with a preparation period followed as little as by 45 minutes of bleaching. (A cleaning is recommended prior to the actual Zoom! whitening session.)

How does the Zoom! In-office system work?
The Zoom! light activated whitening gel’s active ingredient is Hydrogen Peroxide. As the Hydrogen Peroxide is broken down, oxygen enters the enamel and dentin, bleaching colored substances while the structure of the tooth is unchanged. The Zoom! light aids in activating the hydrogen peroxide and helps it penetrate the surface of the tooth. A study has shown that use of the Zoom! lamp increases the effectiveness of the Zoom! gel by 26% or more, giving an average improvement of up to eight shades.

What will I experience during the Zoom! In-Office Procedure?
During the procedure, patients may comfortably watch television or listen to music. Individuals with a strong gag reflex or anxiety may have difficulty undergoing the entire procedure.

How long do the results last?
By following some simple post whitening care instructions, your teeth will always be lighter than they were before. To keep your teeth looking their best, we recommend flossing, brushing twice daily, and occasional touch-ups with Zoom! Weekender or Nite White gel. These are professional formula products designed specifically to keep your teeth their brightest. They are available only through your dental professional.

Are there any side effects?
Sensitivity during the treatment may occur with some patients. The Zoom! light generates minimal heat which is the usual source of discomfort. On rare occasions, minor tingling sensations are experienced immediately after the procedure, but always dissipate. You can also ask your dentist to supply you with anti-sensitivity toothpaste for use prior to treatment.

What causes tooth discoloration?
There are many causes. The most common include aging and consumption of staining substances such as coffee, tea, colas, tobacco, red wine, etc. During tooth formation, consumption of tetracycline, certain antibiotics or excessive fluoride may also cause tooth discoloration.

Do many people whiten their teeth?
More people than you might imagine. A bright sparkling smile can make a big difference for everyone. The Zoom! Chairside Whitening System makes it easier and faster than ever before.

Who may benefit from tooth whitening?
Almost anyone. However, treatment may not be as effective for some as it is for others. Your dental professional can determine if you are a viable candidate for this procedure through a thorough oral exam, including a shade assessment.

Is whitening safe?
Yes. Extensive research and clinical studies indicate that whitening teeth under the supervision of a dentist is safe. In fact, many dentists consider whitening the safest cosmetic dental procedure available. As with any tooth whitening product, Zoom! is not recommended for children under 13 years of age and pregnant or lactating women.

Bruxism/Teeth grinding

Bruxism is the medical term for grinding, gnashing or clenching your teeth. The condition affects both children and adults.

Some people with bruxism unconsciously clench their teeth together during the day, often when they feel anxious or tense. This is different from tooth grinding or clenching that occurs at night, which is called sleep bruxism. Most children who are bruxers do so at night, while adults are either daytime or nighttime bruxers.

Bruxism may be mild and may not even require treatment. However, it can be frequent and severe enough to lead to jaw disorders, headaches, damaged teeth and other problems. Unfortunately, people with sleep bruxism usually aren't aware of the habit, so they aren't diagnosed with the condition until complications occur. That's why it's important to know the signs and symptoms of bruxism and to seek regular dental care.