The Most Confusing Aisle In The Store???

If you have been shopping for toothpaste lately, you know that it can be very confusing.

Unlike the old days when the choices were few, these days it seems that there are way too many options! Whitening toothpastes, tartar control, paste or gel, gum health, desensitizing, – which is best? This is a question we get asked all the time. Sometimes it seems like the best thing to do would be to forget the labels and buy whatever is on sale!!

The fact is – buying a particular type or brand of toothpaste is usually not as important as the way you brush and how often you do so. But in any case, here is a quick run-down.

Tartar control toothpaste:  Tartar is calcified plaque which naturally forms and can wreak havoc on your teeth and gums. While tartar control toothpaste has been shown to reduce the formation of new deposits, it can’t remove current ones and does nothing to prevent these formations where they are the most dangerous – underneath the gum line.

Paste vs. gel: No significant difference here; it’s more of a personal preference.

Desensitizing toothpaste: These pastes have ingredients in them which block the small tube-like channels that connect to the nerve tissue inside of your teeth. If you have exposed roots due to gum recession or teeth that are generally sensitive to hot and cold, this may be a good solution for you. But please be patient – it takes 4 to 6 weeks for the magic to kick in.

Whitening pastes: The abrasiveness of these products may reduce surface stains, but they do little to treat the actual yellowing of teeth from the inside. The good news is that most teeth can be whitened with the right treatment. Be sure to ask us what the proper whitening method is for you.

“Gum Care” toothpaste: Studies have shown these to be questionable at best, and they may not be as valuable as standard toothpastes in preventing cavities.

Expensive or bargain brand? The good news here is that price doesn’t seem to be related to effectiveness when choosing a toothpaste. As a matter of fact, recently Consumer Reports magazine rated an expensive paste near the bottom of their list with bargain basement Ultra-Brite near the top in several categories!

So which brand should I use? Most studies are fairly inconclusive on this one. Your best bet is always a brand that contains fluoride and has the American Dental Association seal of approval. And if that brand happens to be on sale – all the better!!

In the end, the most important thing is to brush often (morning, night-time, and after every meal), use a soft brush, try to reach every surface of every tooth, and spend two minutes doing so.

The proper technique is important as well, and we will be glad to demonstrate this to you at your next visit to Comprehensive Dental Care! If you have any more questions or would like to set up a visit, please give us a call at 352-371-9831. We are here to help you!

Did you know that we are now on Facebook? Please “like” our page at www.facebook.com/MyFavoriteGainesvilleDentist for great dental health tips, contests, giveaways, and great special announcements!

Do I Really Need to Floss?

   

Yes, Floss removes plaque and debris that sticks to teeth and gums in between teeth, polishes tooth surfaces, and controls bad breath. Plaque is a sticky layer of material containing bacteria that accumulates on teeth, including places where toothbrushes can not reach. This can lead to gum disease. By flossing your teeth daily, you increase the chance of keeping them for a lifetime and decrease the chance of getting gum disease.

For more information about keeping your teeth clean and healthy, please call our office to set up an appointment with Dr. Loyce A. Jones.

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Teeth Health facts you should know

In addition to brushing and flossing, a healthful diet (with natural or added Fluoride) protects teeth from decay and keeps the gums healthy. Read the article link below and discover how to keep your smile safe and strong.

If you have any questions please contact our office and make an appointment with Dr. Loyce Jones.

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Read this article link below and learn 3 surprising ways to keep your teeth healthy.

http://www.rd.com/health/3-surprising-ways-to-keep-your-teeth-healthy/

Oral Appliances in Dentistry

Oral appliances in dentistry and particularly in the Comprehensive Dental Care Practice of Dr. Loyce Jones fall into a couple of categories:

SLEEP DISORDER APPLIANCES:

Sleep disordered breathing and all the various categories has been said to be one of the most significant health problems in the U.S. and maybe the world. In some studies it has been stated that a drop in sleep from 7 to 5 hours can double the risk of cardiovascular death. It is for this reason that your physician and your dentist may ask you questions about your sleep habits and how rested you feel. Sleep disorders can be snoring, upper airway problems, obstructive apnea and a multiple of other apneas. Having your physician informed of your sleep habits is very important. A sleep study may be recommended that can let you see what happens when you sleep. Often a device that gives you the proper amount of oxygen is prescribed (ie CPAP, VPAP). These devices are the gold standard in helping you with breathing while asleep and treating your sleep disorder.

As your dentist we will work closely with your physician. If the CPAP or other nighttime devices can not being worn, sometimes, your physician will recommend an appliance made by us. There a more than 40 different oral appliances available. It is very important that if you decide to use an oral appliance to help with your sleep disorder that a dentist monitors its use.  All appliances have their risk and benefits. The benefit is there is an improvement in your quality of sleep 61-79% of the time, depending if you have mild or severe obstructive sleep apnea. The side effects can be jaw joint problems, tooth movement, change of your bite, sore teeth, dry mouth, over salivation, etc. Buying an appliance over the counter can cause many problems that if left undetected cannot be reversed.

Bottom line SLEEP APPLIANCES have their place in improving your quality of life when used under the watchful eye of your dentist and physician.

IF you have more questions please contact us at Comprehensive Dental Care, 352-371-9831

Dental Trivia is fun and pretty eye opening

Dental Trivia is fun and pretty eye opening

    Kick the Habit:

 

      Keeping your teeth longer is another reason to quit smoking.  According to the American Dental Association, 42% of daily smokers age 65 or older were completely toothless, compared with 29% of occasional smoker, 26% of former smokers and only 20% of never - smokers in the same age group.

 Eat the Whole Thing: 

You will get fewer cavities if you eat a bag of candy in one sitting and then rinse your mouth with water than if you eat the candy a piece at a time all day.   

Step Away from the Chips:

Sugar is not the only enemy of the teeth. Americans eat too much, too often, and the habit of “day snacking” is causing more dental disease than sugary foods alone.  Every time you put a carbohydrate in your mouth (cracker, apple, grapes, candy etc.) it remains in solution for 20 minutes bathing your teeth. SO if you eat or graze all day long do the math - you could be bathing your teeth in sugary acid for hours.

Your Child's First Visit to the Dentist

It is generally recommended that an infant be seen by a dentist by the age of 1 or within 6 months after his or her first tooth comes in.

What Happens at the First Dental Visit?

The first dental visit is usually short and involves very little treatment. This visit gives your child an opportunity to meet the dentist in a non-threatening and friendly way. Some dentists may ask the parent to sit in the dental chair and hold their child during the examination. The parent may also be asked to wait in the reception area during part of the visit so that a relationship can be built between your child and your dentist.
During the exam, your dentist will check all of your child's existing teeth for decay, examine your child's bite, and look for any potential problems with the gums, jaw, and oral tissues. If indicated, the dentist or hygienist will clean any teeth and assess the need for fluoride. He or she will also educate parents about oral health care basics for children and discuss dental developmental issues and answer any questions.
Topics your dentist may discuss with you might include:

1. Good oral hygiene practices for your child's teeth and gums and cavity prevention
2. Fluoride needs
3. Oral habits (thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, lip sucking)
4. Developmental milestones
5. Teething
6. Proper nutrition
7. Schedule of dental checkups. Many dentists like to see children every 6 months to build up the child's comfort and confidence level in visiting the dentist, to monitor the development of the teeth, and promptly treat any developing problems.

You will be asked to complete medical and health information forms concerning the child during the first visit. Come prepared with the necessary information.

Article is from WebMD

What is Tooth Decay?

Tooth decay, also known as caries or cavities, is an oral disease that affects many people. Unlike other diseases, however, caries is not life threatening and is highly preventable, though it affects most people to some degree during their lifetime.

Natural bacteria live in your mouth and form plaque. The plaque interacts with deposits left on your teeth from sugary and starchy foods and produces acids. These acids damage tooth enamel over time by dissolving, or demineralizing enamel, which weakens the teeth and leads to tooth decay.

Foods containing carbohydrates (starches and sugars), such as soda pop, candy, ice cream, milk, and even some fruits, vegetables, and juices, may contribute to tooth decay.

If you would like more information and would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jones please contact us @ 352-371-9831.

Gentle & Caring Dentist

I know these are buzz words that every dentist would like to describe the care they and their staff provide. I guess I’ve never has anyone as for a mean and abusive dentist. So what should you truly look for when picking a gentle and caring dentist?

1. A good start is to ask your friends who they go to.

2. If the same name keeps surfacing call and talk to the staff. If what you are hearing on the phone does not sound like the rave reviews your friends gave, ask if you can have some time just to meet the dentist and sit down and talk with them. Dr. Loyce Jones loves meeting patients and will always find time at the end of her day to talk with you about your concerns. She’ll meet you at no charge because she wants you to fine the place you are most comfortable with.

Okay you found your dentist, you’ve done your interview and you are sure they are the one.

3. A comprehensive dental examination is the first appointment you should have. The time spent on this examination will give you some indication on how caring the dentist is. Dr. Loyce Jones allows 90 minutes for her comprehensive examination. She know this is the only way to get the necessary information about you, your dental history, dental concerns, and gather necessary information to answer all your dental questions. I know quantity does not always mean quality, but it does take time to do this well.

Okay, I know you are saying this is way to much, but think about it, if the dentist cares enough to spend this much time gathering a very thorough history they will care about you. GIVE US THE TIME, it makes a difference!

4. REVIEWING THE FINDING OF YOUR EXAMINATION. This is when Dr. Loyce Jones, or your dentist reviews with you the condition of your mouth and all that supports the mouth. She will review the appearance of your mouth, if this is one of your concerns. She reviews how your teeth, muscles, and joints all function together. Next she will discuss the structure of the teeth. Are they strong enough to make the journey? Lastly she will discuss the biology of your mouth, which includes the bone and gums that support the teeth.

This REVIEW may only take minutes at the end of your Comprehensive Examination or you may return for a separate appointment so you are not rushed. If you return for this second appointment, there is never a charge.

Gentle and caring dentist begins with giving you the time to be you from the very first visit!

If you have any questions please visit our website http://www.loycejonesdental.com/ or give our office a call 352-371-9831.

* Help for your teeth and gums *

PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Bacteria in your mouth form a sticky film (plaque) on teeth and gums. If not removed, this hardens into a crust (tarter). The bacteria in plaque and tater can cause an infection called periodontal disease. This can lead to pain, gum damage, bone loss, and even tooth loss. Scaling and root planing is a special type of cleaning done by a general dentist, dental hygienist, or periodontist. This cleaning removes plaque and tartar from beneath the gums. This restores health to your gums and teeth.

YOUR EVALUATION

Your dentist looks at your gums for color changes, bleeding, swelling, and recession. Your teeth are checked for looseness and sensitivity. Full month x-rays show if a medical condition, like diabetes, is contributing to your periodontal disease.

PERIODONTAL PROBING

Periodontal probing helps measures how advanced your disease is. During probing, a tool (probe) measures the death of space (called the pocket) between the tooth and the surrounding gum. The deeper the pocket, the more severe the problem.

THE PROCEDURE

Scaling and root planning removes plaque and tartar from below your gum line. This controls the growth of harmful bacteria. It also helps gums reattached firmly to the teeth. Because this procedure goes deeper than a regular cleaning, your mouth may be numbered. The cleaning may take 1 to 4 or more visits to complete.

AFTER YOUR PROCEDURE

Your mouth may feel sore and tender after treatment. Keep brushing and flossing teeth after each meal. Your dentist may tell you to rinse with warm saltwater every few hours. Pain medication may be suggested if you need it. Ask your dentist if you should use an antibacterial rinse.

Please call our office today to set up your evaluation @ 352-371-9831 or visit our website http://www.loycejonesdental.com/.

What Can I Do to Reduce Tooth Sensitivity?

Some steps you can take to prevent tooth sensitivity include:

• Maintain good oral hygiene. Continue to follow proper brushing and flossing techniques to thoroughly clean all parts of your teeth and mouth.
• Use a soft bristled toothbrush. This will result in less toothbrush abrasion to the tooth surface and less irritation to your gums. Brush gently and carefully around the gum line so you do not remove more gum tissue.
• Use desensitizing toothpaste. There are several brands of toothpaste available for sensitive teeth. With regular use you should notice a decrease in sensitivity. You may need to try several different brands to find the product that works best for you. Another tip. spread a thin layer of the toothpaste on the exposed tooth roots with your finger or a Q-tip before you go to bed. Do not use a tartar control toothpaste; rather, use a fluoridated toothpaste.
• Watch what you eat. Frequent consumption of highly acid foods can gradually dissolve tooth enamel and lead to dentin exposure. They may also aggravate the sensitivity and start the pain reaction.
• Use fluoridated dental products. Daily use of a fluoridated mouth rinse can decrease sensitivity. Ask your dentist about available products for home use.
• Avoid teeth grinding. If you grind or clench your teeth, use a mouth guard at night.
• See your dentist at regular intervals. Get professional tooth cleaning, oral hygiene instructions, and fluoride treatments every six months (or sooner depending on your condition).
• If you still have discomfort, talk to your dentist. There may be some dental procedures that may help reduce sensitivity, including the use of:
  
  • White fillings (bonding) to cover exposed root surfaces
  • Fluoride varnishes applied to the exposed root surface
  • Dentin sealers applied to the exposed root surface

If you would like to make appointment with Dr. Loyce Jones, please contact our office.
http:www.loycejonesdental.com

Reference: WebMD.com

Sensitive Teeth

There are many factors that may lead to sensitive teeth

·   Brushing too hard. Over time, brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down enamel and cause the dentin to be exposed. It can also cause recession of the gums (the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth).

• Tooth decay near the gum line.
• Recession of the gums. As gums move away from a tooth due to conditions such as periodontal disease, the root surface becomes exposed.
• Gum disease (gingivitis). Inflamed and sore gum tissue may cause sensitivity due to the loss of supporting ligaments, which exposes the root surface that leads directly to the nerve of the tooth.
• Cracked teeth. Chipped or broken teeth may fill with bacteria from plaque and enter the pulp causing Inflammation.
• Teeth grinding. Grinding or clenching your teeth may wear down the enamel and expose underlying dentin.
• Tooth whitening products or toothpaste with baking soda and peroxide. These products are major contributors to sensitive teeth.
• Your age. Tooth sensitivity is highest between the ages of 25 and 30.

·   Plaque build-up. The presence of plaque on the root surfaces can cause sensitivity.

·   Mouthwash use. Long-term use of some mouthwashes. Some over-the-counter mouthwashes contain acids that can worsen tooth sensitivity if you have exposed dentin (the middle layer of the tooth). The acids further damage the dentin layer of the tooth. If you have dentin sensitivity, ask your dentist about the use of a neutral fluoride solution.

·   Acidic foods. Regular consumption of foods with a high acid content, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, pickles, and tea, can cause enamel erosion.

·   Recent routine dental procedures. Sensitivity can occur following teeth cleaning, root planing, crown placement, and tooth restoration. Sensitivity caused by dental procedures is temporary, usually disappearing in four to six weeks.

Reference: WebMD.com

If you would like to make appointment with Dr. Loyce Jones, please contact our office.
http:www.loycejonesdental.com

Bread of The Mighty!

Each year we chose a community service to be part of. We have choosen the Bread of the Mighty Food Bank. They have been part of our community for 25 years and serve Alachua, Dixie, Gilchrist, Lafayette, & Levy counties.

We would love to be able to get our patients and friends involved.

We ask if you have a dental appointment or happen to be in the neighborhood to drop off items from can goods to personal hygiene items (shampoo, soap, deodorant, etc.).

We will be collecting food for all of 2012.

We started this in November of 2011 and so far with your help we have donated 238 pounds of food! We are so thankful to everyone that has helped us.

To learn more about the Bread of the Might Food Bank go to
http://www.breadofthemighty.org/index.html