Ξ July 30th, 2009 | → Comments Off | ∇ Uncategorized |
Botox! You have heard the wonders of what it can do for wrinkles, but did you know that it does so much more.
Long before botox was used for easing lines and wrinkles, it was being used in the medical field on patients with spastic muscles or muscles that clench involuntarily.
Botox is now being used in the dental community to treat dental disorders such as TMJ disorder, teeth grinding and teeth clenching. If left untreated these disorders lead to joint, head and neck pain, including migraines. They also cause extreme stress on your natural teeth and crowns and veneers, causing chipping, cracking and breaking. Botox delivers targeted treatment to the problem area releasing you from pain and the destruction of chronic clenching.
Dr. Peck has received advanced training so he is able to provide his patients with either botox esthetic (lines and wrinkles) or therapeutic treatments (clenching jaw muscles).
Though botox esthetic and botox dental therapeutic treatments accomplish very different goals, you can be assured that you will receive superior results in the highly trained hands of Dr. Peck.
Dr. Peck has also received advanced esthetic training and is now offering dermal filler treatments to correct lines, wrinkles, and scars on the face and enhance features such as the lips and cheeks. Dermal filler treatments consist of placing collagen under the skin to fill in what has been lost by the natural aging process.
You may be wondering why Dr. Peck has chosen to be trained and provide treatments that you normally would receive from a plastic surgeon. As a esthetic dentist, Dr. Peck is extremely knowledgeable about the facial and jaw muscles and how they function. He also understands the need for symmetry and balance to create a natural look that will turn back the clock ten years or more.
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Ξ June 23rd, 2009 | → Comments Off | ∇ Uncategorized |
In the past, we took an impression when we created new crowns or bridges, with a putty-like material that was not very pleasant. Today, we have the capability to take an extremely accurate digital impression of your teeth. The system, “Lava COS” manufactured by 3M allows us to scan your teeth with a sophisticated optical wand that contains tiny camera lenses. These lenses capture detailed video images, ensuring precise impression replicas. The result is a superbly fitting restoration.
The image file is sent to the lab, where the digitally generated model replica is used to fabricate your final restoration. As time goes on, we will be able to use this scanner for even a wider variety of procedures to make restoring your smile, even more comfortable. Whenever there is new technology available, we always review it and determine if there is benefit to our patients. Count on us to be up to date on the latest procedures and technologies utilizing the finest materials 21st century dentistry has to offer.
In addition to this added convenience, we are adding a summer promotion to improve your smile with Invisalign. As you may be aware, Invisalign is a series of clear comfortable trays that enable us to move and straighten without traditional braces. Our summer promotion is a fixed monthly payment, with no down payment which allows you to treat yourself to a beautiful new smile. The cost range is from $141 to $229 per month with no interest.
We are so excited about all the new dental cosmetic enhancements that will be unveiled shortly.
Have a safe and happy 4th of July.
Dr. Peck and staff
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Ξ April 16th, 2009 | → Comments Off | ∇ Uncategorized |
During the last 40 years, the use of dental composites has grown incredibly. Today, dentists can choose from a variety of dental composite materials to produce the best smile for their patients. Dentists use composites to fill cavities, to fix broken teeth, or to reshape an unsightly smile.
Composites are very easy on the teeth, as they do not require the dentist to grind them down.
Usually a dentist can place a composite without the use of an anesthetic. Following preparation, the dentist places the composite in layers, using a light specialized to harden each layer. When the process is finished, the dentist will shape the composite to fit the tooth. The dentist then polishes the composite to prevent staining and early wear.
One of the principle advantages of composites is esthetics, since dentists can blend shades to create a color nearly identical to that of the actual tooth. Composites bond to the tooth to support the remaining tooth structure, which helps to prevent breakage and insulate the tooth from excessive temperature changes.
Additionally, a dentist can place composites faster than porcelain veneers or crowns because there is no need for a dental laboratory. This not only eliminates an extra appointment, it also greatly decreases the cost of the procedure.
The disadvantage with composites is that the appearance of the new tooth is completely dependent on the dentist’s skills. It is vitally important to ascertain that the dentist is artistically skilled with the use of composites. Only the most artistically inclined dentists use dental composites with the greatest success.
Copyright 2008
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Ξ March 17th, 2009 | → Comments Off | ∇ Uncategorized |
Bad breath (halitosis) can cause embarrassment, create social and psychological barriers, and even affect relationships. Some people with bad breath aren’t even aware there’s a problem. That’s because they probably used a mouthwash earlier in the day and the effects wore off.
The reason is that most over-the-counter products do not eliminate bad breath. They can only hide it temporarily. An independent study of fifteen mouthwash products showed that while they all masked bad breath after ten minutes, only a few were still working after a few hours. Additionally, most mouthwash products contain alcohol that dries soft oral tissue and ultimately leads to even faster formation of odor-causing bacteria.
Mouthwashes are generally cosmetic and do not have a long-lasting effect on bad breath. If you must constantly use a breath freshener to hide unpleasant mouth odor, your problem may be more serious. So if the mouthwash cycle hasn’t been working for you, and you’re still concerned about bad breath, see your dentist. He or she can help identify the cause and, if it’s due to an oral condition, develop a treatment plan to help eliminate it.
Copyright 2008
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Ξ February 16th, 2009 | → Comments Off | ∇ Uncategorized |
February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. It’s sponsored each year by the American Dental Association (ADA) and we feel that it is of critical importance that children of all ages establish good oral health practices and maintain them.
The best way to ensure that your child does not get cavities or gingivitis is to instill proper oral habits early. Even before teeth begin to erupt, thoroughly clean your infant’s gums after each feeding with a water-soaked washcloth or gauze pad to stimulate the gum tissue and remove food. When the baby’s teeth begin to erupt, brush them gently with a small soft-bristled toothbrush. At age two, you can begin to teach your child proper brushing techniques, but must continue to follow up your child’s attempt with your own thorough brushing.
Schedule regular oral health appointments starting around your child’s third birthday. Our office will check for cavities and watch for developmental problems, as well as help create a positive experience so your child will look forward to future visits.
We all know that candy causes cavities, however, the most damaging things for your teeth are soda and sports drinks such as Gatorade and Red Bull. They are extremely acidic and contain lots of sugar. A 12 oz. can of Mountain Dew contains 46 grams of sugar. 4 grams equal one teaspoon, so that means that one can of soda contains 11_ teaspoons of sugar! A can of Coke has 8 teaspoons of sugar. Having these treats once in a while is not a big deal, but if you or your child has them every day, you are sure to end up with cavities. As you continue to sip that can of soda, you are constantly bathing your teeth in sugar. This is becoming very prevalent not only in children and teens, but into adult life.
Here is a simple science experiment you can do with your child. Find two old tarnished pennies that are about the same color. Put one in a glass of any cola and turn the penny over after one day. Do not do anything to the other penny. After two days, the acid of the cola will have eaten away all the oxidation and dirt on the penny. The color of the untreated penny will be used as a comparison to show just how much the penny in the soda has changed. If the acid from soda can erode a copper penny, imagine how much damage it could do to your teeth!
As your dentist, our goal is to help you keep your teeth for your entire life. We are always available to answer any questions you may have and we look forward to seeing you at your next appointment.
Dr. Fred Peck and staff
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Ξ December 17th, 2008 | → Comments Off | ∇ Uncategorized |
Tooth loss is the result of an advanced state of periodontal disease, in which the gums become so infected they cannot hold the teeth any longer.
When teeth fall out, it is more difficult to eat, and people without teeth–even those who wear dentures–are the most vulnerable to digestive and other related problems.
Research indicates that changes in food preferences and subsequent nutrient deficiencies are associated with tooth loss. Even those with dentures do not always obtain the necessary nutrients. One study of denture-wearers found that their chewing efficiency was about one-sixth that of a person with natural teeth.
Poor chewing has been associated with a decrease in vitamin A and fiber intake and an increase in cholesterol, saturated fat and calories, ingredients that increase the risks of cancer and heart disease. This study concluded that most of the patients with dentures showed a low chewing performance classification. They also took more medication for gastrointestinal disorders than those with a higher chewing performance.
Denture wearers are not the only people at risk for poor digestion. A person with a poor bite, also known as malocclusion, is at risk for digestive problems. Malocclusion can influence an individual’s food choice and ability to chew food properly. The lack of a wide variety of food in a diet can result in poor nutrition.
Cavities can also lead to digestive problems. If a person is in pain because of a cavity, then proper chewing may not be possible. Proper chewing is essential for food to be broken down enough for good digestion. The right amount of chewing also allows for the nutrients of food to be maximized for absorption. It also allows for a more efficient digestion process.
One way to prevent this escalation of problems is to have your teeth cleaned and examined regularly. During a routine visit, a dentist can also determine if periodontal, or gum, disease had developed. Periodontal disease can cause pain and loose teeth and eventually lead to the loss of teeth if not treated. The onset of periodontal disease can lead to poor chewing habits and digestion. A dentist will recommend periodontal therapy to eliminate any infections in the gums, which will help you keep your teeth for life. This, in turn, will help you eat better, look better, feel better, and live longer.
Copyright 2008Tooth loss is the result of an advanced state of periodontal disease, in which the gums become so infected they cannot hold the teeth any longer.
When teeth fall out, it is more difficult to eat, and people without teeth–even those who wear dentures–are the most vulnerable to digestive and other related problems.
Research indicates that changes in food preferences and subsequent nutrient deficiencies are associated with tooth loss. Even those with dentures do not always obtain the necessary nutrients. One study of denture-wearers found that their chewing efficiency was about one-sixth that of a person with natural teeth.
Poor chewing has been associated with a decrease in vitamin A and fiber intake and an increase in cholesterol, saturated fat and calories, ingredients that increase the risks of cancer and heart disease. This study concluded that most of the patients with dentures showed a low chewing performance classification. They also took more medication for gastrointestinal disorders than those with a higher chewing performance.
Denture wearers are not the only people at risk for poor digestion. A person with a poor bite, also known as malocclusion, is at risk for digestive problems. Malocclusion can influence an individual’s food choice and ability to chew food properly. The lack of a wide variety of food in a diet can result in poor nutrition.
Cavities can also lead to digestive problems. If a person is in pain because of a cavity, then proper chewing may not be possible. Proper chewing is essential for food to be broken down enough for good digestion. The right amount of chewing also allows for the nutrients of food to be maximized for absorption. It also allows for a more efficient digestion process.
One way to prevent this escalation of problems is to have your teeth cleaned and examined regularly. During a routine visit, a dentist can also determine if periodontal, or gum, disease had developed. Periodontal disease can cause pain and loose teeth and eventually lead to the loss of teeth if not treated. The onset of periodontal disease can lead to poor chewing habits and digestion. A dentist will recommend periodontal therapy to eliminate any infections in the gums, which will help you keep your teeth for life. This, in turn, will help you eat better, look better, feel better, and live longer.
Copyright 2008
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What exactly is plaque?
Plaque is a colorless, sticky film composed of undigested food particles mixed with saliva and bacteria that constantly forms on the teeth. Left alone eventually it turns in to tartar or calculus and is the main factor in causing dental caries and periodontal disease.
Ξ November 17th, 2008 | → Comments Off | ∇ Uncategorized |
Bad breath (halitosis) is a common problem, which often comes from the activity of bacteria in the mouth. Although there is no way of knowing for sure, most adults probably suffer from bad breath occasionally, with perhaps a quarter suffering from it on a regular basis.
There are two types of bad breath. Transitory, or occasional, bad breath is caused by foods like garlic and onions and generally only lasts from 24 to 72 hours. It might be referred to as “morning breath,” which goes away after you brush your teeth.
Chronic, or regular, bad breath does not improve over time. In some instances, chronic bad breath is actually caused by underlying medical conditions like diabetes, sinusitis or emphysema. And in those rare situations, treating the disease could possibly eliminate the cause of the bad breath.
The odor of chronic bad breath results when bacteria in the mouth and on the tongue cause the formation of volatile sulfur compounds (VSC’s) in the form of hydrogen sulfides. The back of the tongue is the prime breeding spot for anaerobic bacteria that creates odor-causing Volatile Sulfur Compounds. This may be an ongoing problem requiring professional breath management.
Talk to your dentist about bad breath. He or she may have a treatment that fights both the cause and effect of bad breath.
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Ξ October 10th, 2008 | → Comments Off | ∇ Uncategorized |
As with all diabetic complications, an ounce of prevention is worth its weight in gold. By far the most important step that can be taken is to brush and floss regularly. It is advisable to discuss proper brushing and flossing techniques with your dental team. Some of the fundamentals might surprise you. For example, it is recommended that you brush for a minimum of three minutes, which, when put into practice, is longer than one might imagine.
In the Chair
Prevention also includes making and keeping the often-dreaded dental appointment. See the dentist twice a year, or as often as necessary. If you are avoiding the dentist due to fear and or loathing, there are some strategies to make it a little easier to deal with.
It is best to schedule dental appointments, about an hour and a half after breakfast so that the appointment does not interfere with regular meal times. Test your BGs before you go to the dentist and test them while you are at the dentist’s office. Make sure to stick to your regular insulin and/or oral medication schedule to avoid BG problems. It is also important to discuss your diabetes with your dental team.
Taking Precautions
The dental team needs to know if their patients take oral agents or insulin because that means special precautions must be taken. Dentists caring for patients with diabetes should have a calibrated glucose meter, glucose tablets or fruit juice, and a glucagons kit available.
They should also be familiar with the common signs of hypoglycemia such as loss of coordination, blurry vision, palpitations, rapid heart rate, sweating and shaking. They must also know if a patient with diabetes has hypoglycemic unawareness, a condition in which they experience few if any signs and symptoms of low blood sugars.
A common situation leading to hypoglycemia at the dental office is a patient skipping breakfast before an appointment but taking the regular amount of insulin.
Severe hyperglycemia may occur as well, but less frequently. Acetone breath and dehydration dry mucous membranes and changes in mental status are signs that blood glucose is too high and dental procedures should be postponed.
Be Aware
The relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease is well established. Preventive oral health care, including professional cleanings at the dental office, is important if you are to control the progression of periodontal disease and other oral health problems.
The key thing to remember is that diabetes can cause additional problems so those with diabetes need to take additional care to keep their teeth and gums healthy.
Copyright 2008
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What does a dentist do on a roller coaster?
He braces himself
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