Brush your teeth twice a day with an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste (Look for the ADA Seal on fluoride toothpaste). Replace your toothbrush every three or four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed. A worn toothbrush won't do a good job of cleaning your teeth.

Clean between teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner. Tooth decay–causing bacteria still linger between teeth where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. This helps remove the sticky film on teeth called plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line.

Eat a balanced diet, low in carbohydrates and limit between-meal snacks. Carbs are just as bad as sugar in causing dental problems. Mouth bacteria use the carbs and sugar to produce acid which dissolves the minerals of teeth, causing cavities.

Dr Loshin recommends regular preventive dental visits minimum every six months:

The early stages of most diseases of the teeth, gums and mouth do NOT cause pain or discomfort. It is always better to identify and treat problems early. Dr Loshin and his hygienists will examine for mouth cancer, decay, cavities, broken teeth or fillings, diseases of the gums and many other things.

A thorough dental teeth cleaning to remove plaque, polish teeth, provide professional fluoride treatment, and oral hygiene instructions.

Dental x-rays (4 bitewings once every year and a full- mouth set every five years)

What is fluoride and how can it help?

Fluoride is an important element for all mineralized tissues in the body. Appropriate fluoride exposure and usage is beneficial to bone and tooth integrity, and therefore, has an important impact on oral health. The proper use of topical fluoride and systemic (in water systems) fluoride has resulted in major reductions in dental cavities/tooth decay and its associated problems. Fluoride prevents oral bacteria from metabolizing sugars, therefore disrupting their ability to attack tooth enamel and create tooth decay. Fluoride also substitutes for lost tooth surface minerals (ie. calcium and phosphorus), thus hardening the surface to acid attack.

What causes bad breath?

There are many causes of bad breath. These include:

• Foods you eat- Certain foods, such as garlic, onions, and coffee, contribute to objectionable breath odors. When these foods are absorbed into the bloodstream, it is transferred to the lungs, where it is expelled. Brushing, flossing and mouthwash will temporarily mask the odor. The odor will continue until the body eliminates all of it. Dieters can develop unpleasant mouth odor from infrequent eating.
• Infrequent brushing and flossing- Particles of food will remain in the mouth, between teeth, on the tongue and around the gums, collecting bacteria and food rot, which can cause bad breath.
• Dry mouth- When the flow of saliva is decreased with use of some medications, salivary gland problems or mouth breathing, bad breath can occur. Saliva is necessary to cleanse the mouth and remove particles that may cause odor.
  If you are concerned about bad breath, see Dr. Loshin. He can help determine the cause and develop a plan to help eliminate it.

What causes teeth grinding (bruxism) ?

Teeth grinding can be due to both physical and emotional factors. These include stress, sleep disorders, abnormal bite and crooked or missing teeth. Recent studies have shown that almost all people clench or grind their teeth together during sleep. For some people this is only a momentary or very brief phase of the normal sleep cycle. For others, these movements, called “parafunction” can continue for minutes or hours. No one knows exactly why these differences in duration occur.

But we do know that bruxism can cause serious pain, headaches, and sore jaw muscles especially in the morning. These are often symptoms of the condition known as TMJ disorder. (see TMJ page LINK) If you have any of these symptoms, or think bruxism may be causing premature wearing away of your teeth, please let us know. Dr. Loshin will help you with a plan for treatment. Treatment might include relaxation techniques / life-style changes, muscle relaxants, or a plastic tooth guard to wear at night. Restorative dentistry might be needed in some cases, to rebuild the teeth damaged by bruxism. It is crucial to seek treatment for bruxism early to prevent more serious discomfort and problems.

Is bottled water good or bad for teeth?

Drinking bottled water by adults has no positive or negative affects on the teeth. Most bottled water has no fluoride mineral content. Many municipal drinking water systems have added fluoride mineral in the very small ideal amount of 1 part per million which has been proven over 6 decades to reduce cavities in children whose teeth are in the development stage. If you give your child only bottled water he or she will miss out on this beneficial affect. (The fluoride in the municipal water supply is too low a concentration to have any topical effect on adults’ teeth.)

What causes sensitive teeth?

Is a taste of ice cream or a sip of hot coffee sometimes a painful experience for you? Does brushing or flossing make you wince occasionally? If so, you may have the common problem of "sensitive teeth."

There are many causes of tooth sensitivity:

Cavities or fractured teeth can cause sensitive teeth. These can be repaired using restorative techniques like resins and crowns. In some cases, a referral to a endodontist may be needed for a root canal.

Exposed roots due to receding gums: Dr. Loshin might suggest trying a desensitizing toothpaste and/ or in office fluoride gel. Proper oral hygiene and brushing techniques can prevent gums from receding. If sensitivity still persists, Dr.Loshin can use agents that bond to the tooth root to seal the sensitive tooth.

Worn tooth enamel: Desensitizing toothpaste and fluoride gels can help this problem.

What are dental sealants?

Dental sealants are a plastic coating painted and chemically bonded on the grooved, hard to reach surfaces of the back teeth. Thorough brushing and flossing help remove particles of food and plaque from the smooth surfaces of teeth. However, toothbrush bristles cannot reach into the depressions and grooves to extract food and plaque. Sealants protect these vulnerable areas by “sealing out” food and cavity causing bacteria. Think of a sealant like the plastic coating on your driver’s license, making it hard and resistant to injury.

Children and teenagers are particularly susceptible to decay in the pits and grooves of back teeth. Sealants are very effective for this age group in preventing decay when applied shortly after the first permanent molars emerge, around age 6. Additionally, around age 12, when the second set of permanent molars emerge, another coating of sealants is recommended. All the early research on sealants was done with children and so insurance companies started to cover sealants for children first. Now we know sealants are effective at reducing decay for adults also, and many insurance companies now cover sealants for adults. Dr. Loshin recommends sealants for adults who want to prevent tooth decay and cavities over the long term.

Sealants hold up well under the force of normal chewing and usually last many years before a reapplication is needed. During a regular dental visit, Dr. Loshin will check the condition of the sealants and reapply them when necessary.

DDS vs DMD degrees – What is the difference?

In the United States, the DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) and DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) are equivalent degrees. They are awarded upon graduation from dental school to become a general dentist. The majority of dental schools award the DDS degree; however, some award a DMD degree. The education and degrees are the same.

In Latin, “surgery” means “to cut” and “dental” means “teeth”, so the early designation for dentists described “one who cuts on teeth.” In 1867 Harvard University added a dental school and Harvard being Harvard wanted to change the DDS designation to something more akin to the medical designation “Medicinae Doctor” (MD). They added the prefix “Dentariae” and thus DMD or Dentariae Medicinae Doctor was born.

By 1900 only two schools, Harvard and Oregon awarded the DMD degree. The other 55 schools awarded the DDS degree. Over the subsequent years more US dental schools adopted the DMD designation. Many felt this more accurately described a modern day dentist as a doctor of the oral cavity who does many more things than merely “cut teeth.” Indeed dentists are truly medical specialists of the mouth akin to podiatrists for feet or ophthmalogists for eyes. Currently about a third of US schools award DMD and the rest DDS.

How do I keep my child’s teeth healthy?

It’s easy to start your child on the path to a lifetime of strong, healthy teeth. As soon as your child’s teeth appear — as soon as four months after birth — they should be brushed. Each day, brush your child’s teeth with a soft, wet toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Choose toothpaste with the least flavoring. Try it yourself. If it is really bland, it will be good for your child. Young children may regard even medium flavored toothpaste as “spicy.” Do not fight with your child over holding the brush. Just get two brushes- one for him or her to hold and one for you to use.

By one year of age, tooth brushing should be part of the nightly routine and morning routine that does not ever vary. As soon as your child can stand up, buy a stool that brings him to a working level at the sink. Stand behind him and gently cradle his jaw with your left hand. Then brush his teeth with your brush as he “helps” with his. Make it fun, but if he is overtired and cranky, even a cursory effort on your part will establish tooth brushing as a necessary part of the bedtime routine that simply does not vary. ie. no brushing is not an option.

Prevent Nursing-bottle mouth, also known as baby-bottle tooth decay or baby-bottle syndrome, can cause a baby’s front teeth to rapidly decay, which can lead to a lifetime of dental difficulties. Preventing nursing bottle mouth is easy: If you give your baby a bottle at nap or bed time, simply fill it with plain water rather than formula, milk, or juice—never let your child fall asleep with a bottle filled with a liquid other than water. Periodically, check your child’s teeth for brown spots near the gumline because they are a warning sign for tooth decay.
Dr. Loshin and our hygienists will gladly discuss dental health issues and strategies for preventive dentistry for your child when you come in for your own checkups. If we can dialog about this on an ongoing basis from shortly after your child’s birth, there is no need to actually see your child in the office until about age 3. At that time make an appointment for him or her and we will get started with preventive dentistry in a child-friendly, fun way before any problems arise.

Do you recommend replacing old silver/amalgam fillings?

We practice a “conservative philosophy” when it comes to replacing old fillings. This means that there should be distinct and observable symptoms, decay, defects, or other problems requiring replacement of the filling, to be included as an immediate treatment recommendation.

As fillings age, dimensional changes occur as a result of thermal changes and the stresses of use. Metals corrode and turn black. Fillings crack and begin to leak. Adjacent enamel can crack and decay. If you have teeth that are likely to experience these problems and would like to consider replacements let us know. We can plan to replace these after your initial treatment of any immediate problems is completed.

Old silver amalgam fillings do contain mercury. The potential harm from the mercury in old fillings is controversial and unproven. Nevertheless many people do want to replace old fillings for this reason. There are often many other good reasons to replace old fillings so the decision rarely centers on the mercury issue.

Because any tooth can become sensitive or have other problems after replacing a filling, it is wise to proceed cautiously when replacing fillings in symptom-free teeth. Literally each tooth requires a separate decision and careful diagnosis.

What makes a great smile?

There are many elements to a great smile. To create something beautiful, and cosmetically stunning, we use symmetry, form, dimension, color, shading, textures and proportion … to create an appearance and an emotion. We look at other elements of the face, shape, skin tone, and hair color, childhood photos and favorite celebrity smiles.

Dr. Loshin is an artist and photographer as well as a cosmetic dentist. Fine art, photography and cosmetic dentistry have much in common. The artist viewing his subject visualizes many things – shapes, tones, contrast, brilliance, distance, horizontal, vertical, layers, lines, opacity, shadows, warmth, or coolness. Then he uses the tools of his craft – various media for the artist, shutter speeds and lens for the photographer, porcelain, lasers, polymers for the dentist – to create something nice to look at. The viewer doesn’t know why the smile or the picture looks so nice, and certainly has no idea of all the behind-the-scenes work to create it. But the emotion registers, great smile, or great photo.

A stunning new smile is a gift to yourself. But it is a gift that you can “give away” to others everyday. It is on display for all to see. Your smile should be a masterpiece that gives you the confidence to smile more often and feel great about yourself. We can help you create that smile and that feeling.

Replacing missing teeth can improve your appearance and dental health. When teeth are missing, it can affect the way the rest of your teeth bite together. The remaining teeth may tilt and drift into the gaps and food can get trapped in the spaces, increasing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease and bone loss. When many teeth are missing, your facial muscles can become saggy, affecting your speech and appearance.

Dr. Loshin can provide many modern options for replacing a single or multiple missing teeth, providing function and a beautiful smile. Options include crowns, bridges, partial or full dentures and implants, all having their advantages and disadvantages. The most appropriate treatment will depend on the number of teeth that are missing, where they are in your mouth and the condition of any remaining teeth. Dr Loshin will carefully evaluate your situation and help you decide which option is best for you.

Dental Implants- Who is a good candidate?

Crowns and conventional bridges or dentures may not be your only options when replacing missing teeth. Many people who are missing one or more teeth, and desire a superior, long lasting aesthetic result are good candidates for dental implants.

Implants offer stability because they fuse to your bone. Integration of the implants into your jaw also helps your replacement teeth feel more natural and some people also find the secure fit more comfortable than conventional substitutes. Surgically placed below the gums over a series of appointments, implants fuse to the jawbone and serve as a base for individual replacement teeth or bridges.

Because implants require surgery, patients must be in good health, have healthy gums, have adequate bone to support the implant and be committed to meticulous oral hygiene and regular dental visits. If you are considering implants, a thorough evaluation by Dr. Loshin will help determine if you would be a good candidate.

For more information click on Dental Implants in the Dental Services section.

Teeth Brushing (Cleaning your teeth and gums)- What is the Best Way?

Good oral hygiene starts at home with proper brushing of your teeth.

• Brush at least twice daily, using a soft-bristle toothbrush with an ADA-accepted flouride toothpaste.
• Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gums.
• Move the brush back and forth gently in short (tooth-wide) strokes.
• Brush the outer tooth surfaces, the inner tooth surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
• Use the "toe" of the brush to clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, using a gentle up-and-down stroke.
• Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
• Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months when the bristles get frayed.
• Clean between the teeth with floss to clean those areas that the toothbrush cannot reach and where decay-causing bacteria lingers.

Oral cancer- What are the symptoms?

It is now easier than ever to detect oral cancer early, when the opportunity for a cure is great. Dr. Loshin and his hygienists have the skills and tools to ensure that early signs of cancer and pre-cancerous conditions are identified.

Oral Cancer often starts as a tiny, unnoticed white or red spot or sore that bleeds easily or does not heal. It can affect any area of the oral cavity including the lips, gum tissue, cheek lining, tongue and the hard or soft palate. Oral cancer most often occurs in those who use tobacco in any form or combined with alcohol use.

There can be a color change, a lump, thickening, rough spot, crust or small eroded area of the oral tissues, with or without pain, tenderness, or numbness in the mouth or on the lips.

Oral cancer is more likely to strike after age 40.

Studies suggest a diet high in fruits and vegetables may prevent the development of cancerous lesions.

What about canker sores?

Canker sores (cold sores) are painful and annoying. They are small ulcers with a white spot or gray base and a red border. They are not contagious. They can appear alone or several at a time and return frequently.

Many factors can spark the development of canker sores: infections from bacteria, viruses, or fungus; immune system problems; routine dental treatment, loose orthodontic wire; a denture that doesn't fit properly; or a sharp edge from a broken tooth or filling; fatique, stress or allergies; premenstrual cycle; intestinal problems such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, though usually just an innocuous irritation, sometimes they can be a symptom of a disease or more serious disorder. Any mouth sore that lasts two weeks or longer should be examined by Dr. Loshin.

Canker sores usually heal on their own after a week or two. Over-the-counter topical anesthetics and antimicrobial mouth rinses may provide temporary relief. Common tea (not herbal) either hot or cold, is soothing to the sores. Stay away from hot, spicy or acidic foods that can irritate the sore.

How can I fix my crooked teeth without braces?

Crooked or malaligned can present both health and cosmetic problems. Orthodontic treatment with braces, clear aligners, (Invisalign) or even jaw surgery is sometimes not possible or desired. In such cases, when it is not possible to change the position of teeth, we simply accept the existing position of the teeth and treat the health and cosmetic problems in others ways. Luckily we have several tools to do this.

Teeth that present at awkward angles with extra space between them can be restored with porcelain crowns or veneers that recreate the ideal angles, symmetry and proportion, with little difficulty.

Teeth that present at awkward angles but are crowded together, can also be restored with porcelain crowns or veneers that recreate the ideal angles, symmetry and proportion, but with more difficulty. The lack of space makes the dentistry more difficult. Accurate diagnosis and planning, including our use of preview wax mock-ups of the intended result, allow for routine success with these cases.

Using dental veneers and many new types of porcelain crowns in these situations is often referred to as "instant orthodontics."

"Instant orthodontics" has the advantage over conventional orthodontics, of a beautiful "smile makeover" result produced quickly and efficiently with fewer appointments. If the teeth are compromised with old, discolored fillings or other defects, straightening alone with conventional orthodontics does not result in a beautiful smile. The teeth are still poor in appearance even though they may be straight. In such cases instant orthodontics may be the better route to a beautiful smile.

What is micro-conservative dentistry?

Micro-conservative dentistry is the combination of specialized dental materials with new micro-dentistry techniques for the purpose of saving more tooth structure and strengthening teeth when treating tooth decay. The new materials work together with new methods and philosophy.

Epoxy-like filling materials known as light-cured composite resins have the unique ability to chemically bond to natural teeth. Because of this, it is no longer necessary to make large openings with "retention undercuts" in order to make a filling stay in a tooth. It is the retention undercuts that have notoriously weakened silver/mercury fillings over time leading to teeth fractures and the need for crowns.

Thus less drilling is necessary to restore a tooth. But since everything is on a smaller scale we need special techniques to see and accomplish the tooth restoration. The special glasses you may notice Dr. Loshin wearing are actually microscopes which help to make possible the new "micro"-conservative techniques.

For these reasons we are following a new "less is better" philosophy in regard to dental restorations, thus the designation "micro-conservative."

What's the difference between "cosmetic dentistry" and "regular (general) dentistry?"

Cosmetic dentistry is a term often used to describe dental procedures for improving the appearance of your teeth or smile. Many options exist for creating a more pleasing appearance when teeth are mishapen, discolored, chipped, aysmmetric, spaced out, too small, missing or crooked.

Some of the procedures used include a variety of porcelain crowns, veneers, and white fillings created with new technology that enables better simulation of original untouched teeth in the ideal smile. Great cosmetic dentistry makes the underlying original problems virtually undetectible, as well as the fact that anything "artificial" is even present.

Actually most good dentistry today involves a "health component" and a "cosmetic component." For example, a newer white filling effectively treats the health problem of a cavity while at the same time restoring a tooth cosmetically. This compares favorably to the old silver-mercury fillings which turn black with age. Besides the white color, there are other big advantages, such as bonding to the tooth and the need for less drilling. A good cosmetic result does not compromise the health result. Both are important. Of course our first priority is health, and we never want health to be compromised by cosmetics.

Thus "cosmetic dentistry" and "regular (general) dentistry" are intertwined in today's modern good dentistry.

What's the difference between a "cosmetic dentist" and a "general dentist?" What is an "excellent dentist?"

Please read the question directly above discussing the difference between cosmetic and general dentistry. An excellent dentist of today combines both. An excellent dentist is highly skilled in cosmetic procedures, but also able to make good decisions in the appropriate application of those procedures. An excellent dentist does not limit his practice to cosmetic procedures and ignore the important health aspects.

Many dentists use the moniker "cosmetic dentist" to emphasize their interest in cosmetic dentistry and for marketing purposes. Cosmetic dentistry is NOT one of the recognized specialties of dentistry such as orthodontics, endodontics or periodontics. It does not require an advanced degree and "cosmetic dentists" are not recognized specialists.

That being said, some dentists are truly more skilled in the cosmetic procedures. Dr. Loshin has been doing state-of-the-art cosmetic procedures since the mid 1980's when it first became acceptable for dentists to even use the words cosmetic and dentistry together. Prior to that time dentists strived to become the doctors of the oral cavity and most emphasis was on patient's oral and general health. In more recent years, with the advent of TV shows like Extreme Makeover, and heavy marketing of teeth whitening, cosmetic dentistry has become a marketing buzzword.

Dr. Loshin is a member of the AACD, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and spends many hours of continuing education in this area. He is a very experienced cosmetic dentist with hundreds of successful cases. But his emphasis first and foremost is your health. Keeping your natural teeth for your entire life is the goal. You can have both - health and good looks. An excellent dentist, Dr. Loshin, can help you achieve both.

How does diabetes affect dental health?

Diabetes can cause problems with your eyes, nerves, kidneys, heart, lower resistance to infection and slow the healing process. Oral health can be affected because of a higher risk of tooth decay and infection and delayed healing.

• Diabetes and tooth decay - Your teeth are covered with plaque, a sticky film of bacteria. After a meal, especially of sugars and starches, the bacteria release acids derived from dietary sugars that attack tooth enamel. Repeated attacks can cause the enamel to break down and result in cavities. When diabetes is not controlled properly, high glucose levels in saliva may help bacteria to thrive, causing tooth decay.

  Brushing twice a day and flossing between the teeth can prevent tooth decay. If not prevented, chronic inflammation and infection can result. This is serious, as diabetics can be slow to heal.

• Diabetes and gum ( periodontal) disease - Because diabetes reduces the body's resistance to infection, the gums are among the tissues likely to be affected. Periodontal Disease is infections of the gums and bone. Inadequately controlled diabetics develop this disease more often and more severely and therefore lose more teeth than do people with good control of their diabetes.

• Other oral infections and conditions in diabetes - Oral candidiasis, a fungal infection in the mouth, appears to occur more frequently among people with diabetes, including those who wear dentures. Additionally, if you smoke, have high glucose levels, or take frequent antibiotics, you are more likely to have a problem with fungal infections in your mouth. Diminished salivary flow, and an increase in salivary glucose levels, are common in diabetes, creating an attractive environment for fungal infections such as thrush. Thrush produces white (and sometimes red) patches in the mouth and tongue that may be sore and become ulcers. Taste and swallowing could become difficult. Dr. Loshin can prescribe antifungal medications to treat this condition.

Good oral health and preventative dental visits are critical.

Preventing oral health problems if you have diabetes?

Along with good oral hygiene at home, regular dental check ups are important to prevent or control tooth decay and control the progression of periodontal disease and other oral diseases in diabetics. Dr. Loshin may recommend more frequent evaluations and preventive procedures to maintain your oral health. It is imperative that you let Dr.Loshin know if you have been diagnosed with diabetes, status of the control of the disease, side affects and medications you are taking.

What are the causes and problems of chronic dry mouth?

Reduced saliva flow, resulting in a dry mouth, is a common problem among older adults. Sometimes it is caused by certain medical disorders and medications, but can also simply be the result of aging, less productive, salivary glands. Chronic nasal congestion with the inability to breath through your nose when asleep can also cause a drying effect, due to mouth breathing. Smoking cigarettes also has a severe drying effect.

Drying irritates the soft tissues of the mouth which can cause them to become inflamed and more susceptible to infection. Also, without adequate saliva to wash away food, lubricate the teeth and neutralize the acids produced by plaque, extensive decay can occur.

Dr, Loshin can recommend various methods to restore moisture. Sugar-free gum or candy stimulates saliva flow. Artificial saliva and oral rinses can also be prescribed.

What is a dry socket?

A dry socket is a condition that sometimes occurs after a tooth is extracted. It is a failure of the socket to hold an adequate blood clot that forms the structure for healing and protects the bone. The socket can be slow to heal, causing pain for three to five days.

Use of alcohol and cigarettes increase the incidence of dry socket, but dry socket sometimes occurs for no apparent reason. Be sure to follow all post-op instructions carefully to lessen the risk of dry socket.

Dr. Loshin might clean the site and place a medicated dressing in the socket to relieve the pain and discomfort until the socket begins to heal. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or other pain relievers might be recommended.

How do eating disorders affect oral health?

It is estimated that over 10 million Americans are affected by eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia and binge eating. Eating disorders can cause numerous health problems such as kidney failure and heart conditions. Each disorder can rob the body of adequate minerals, vitamins, proteins and other nutrients. Eating disorders can also greatly affect oral health.

Without proper nutrition, gums and other soft tissues inside the mouth may bleed easily, saliva glands may swell, and individuals may develop chronic dry mouth. Throwing up, in bulimia, causes strong stomach acids to flow over the teeth, eroding away the protective enamel. This causes the teeth to change color, shape and length. The edges of the teeth become thin and break off easily. Sensitivity to hot and cold food and drink can develop.

Treatment for these oral health consequences involve good oral hygiene. Immediately after throwing up, do NOT brush teeth. Rinse instead with baking soda to help neutralize the effects of the stomach acid. See Dr. Loshin and his hygienist regularly to help prevent problems and monitor oral health.

What is a root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment (or endodontic therapy) is a sequence of procedures to save a tooth with a diseased nerve from further infection or loss of that tooth. Inside each tooth is the pulp which provides nutrients, blood vessels and nerves to the tooth. When the pulp is diseased or damaged, the pulp tissue dies. If you don't have it removed, the tooth will become infected. Root canal treatment involves the removal of the pulp, cleaning, shaping and decontamination of the area with tiny files and irrigation solutions. Then, the canals are filled with a material that seals and protects it. Most of the time, a root canal treatment presents little or no discomfort. The pain is greatest before the procedure, due to the infection or absessed tooth.

Do oral piercings cause dental problems?

Although piercing the tongue, cheek or lip may be a popular trend, there are serious oral health risks. Bacteria in the mouth can cause an infection to the new pierced site. Handling the jewelry in the piercing can introduce additional bacteria. When teeth come in contact with the mouth jewelry while eating, sleeping, chewing or even talking, they can chip, crack and break. This can necessitate fillings. If the fracture is deeper, a root canal , extraction or crown might be needed. People with oral piercings are at greater risk for gum disease. The long stem jewelry, like barbells, can come in contact with the gums, causing the gum tissue to be irritated, recede and can lead to loose teeth and tooth loss.

Make an appointment with Dr. Loshin if you suspect a problem or have a concern. It is critical for him to check your teeth, gums, tongue, and soft tissues for early signs of any problems.

What is a partial denture?

A partial denture is a removable appliance with replacement teeth attached to a pink or gum-colored plastic base. A metal framework is also attached to this base. Metal clasps or nearly invisible precision attachments attach the denture to some of your remaining natural teeth. It is one of many ways to replace missing teeth.

The partial denture might feel awkward or bulky for the first few weeks. Your mouth, however, will grow used to wearing it. After wearing it for a short time, some parts of the denture might need adjustment. If the denture puts too much pressure on a particular area, it can cause a sore spot. Dr. Loshin can easily make an adjustment.

Handling a partial denture takes practice and care. Initially, it's a good idea to stand over a towel just in case you accidently drop it. The denture needs to be brushed with a soft bristled brush every day to remove food and plaque and prevent staining. Apply an ADA approved denture cleaner to the brush. Store the denture at night in a container with water to keep it moist so it doesn't lose its proper shape.

How do I know if I should have my wisdom teeth removed?

Wisdom teeth, the third and final set of molars, are prone to problems that often require their removal. Wisdom teeth can remain below the gumline or in the bone, never erupting into the mouth (impacted) when the jaw isn't large enough to accommodate them. Some erupt sideways or emerge only partially.

Extraction of wisdom teeth is recommended in the following situations:

• Wisdom teeth only partially erupted leave an opening for bacteria to enter around the tooth and cause an infection.
• Poorly aligned wisdom teeth can damage or crowd adjacent teeth, damage the jawbone or nerves. They can lean on adjacent teeth, trapping food and plaque, causing decay.
• A cyst (fluid-filled sac) can form, destroying surrounding structures such as bone and root tips.

Wisdom teeth are prone to decay and gum disease because they are hard to clean so far back in the mouth and/or awkwardly positioned. Dentists often recommend extracting wisdom teeth before they erupt or have problems in order to avoid a more painful or complicated extraction later. Removal is easier in young persons when the wisdom teeth roots are not fully developed and the bone is less dense.

How does pregnancy affect dental health?

During pregnancy, the hormone levels rise. Plaque on teeth can cause an exaggerated response of sensitivity in the gums. Gum inflammation (gingivitis) can cause red, puffy and tender gums. Dr. Loshin may recommend more frequent cleanings during your 2nd and third trimester when progesterone levels are higher and problems can more easily occur.

Untreated dental infections can pose a risk to the mother and fetus. Good oral hygiene and regular check-ups help prevent oral problems (decay, infections) during pregnancy and assure the health of the unborn.

Eating a balanced diet will assure enough calcium and nutrients to keep your teeth healthy. Your baby's teeth begin to develop between the third and sixth month of pregnancy. It is important to get sufficient amounts of calcium, phosphorous, vitamin A, C and D to nurish the baby's developing teeth.

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