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Why Do My Teeth Hurt?

Do you have sensitive teeth? Do your teeth or gums hurt? Only 1 out of every 8 people have naturally sensitive teeth, for the remaining 7 there is a reason behind the pain and sensitivity. The professionals at South Charlotte Dentistry have weighed in and offer their advice and best tips for dealing with sensitive teeth.
There are many reasons for sensitive teeth like brushing with the wrong tooth brush, brushing too hard, whitening too often, cavities, gum disease and more.  The most common, and the one South Charlotte Dentists see most often, is using a toothpaste, or whitening product, that erodes tooth enamel.
Know this dear readers!  It’s not your fault!  Grocery stores and drug stores are filled with trendy whitening products that are not necessarily good for your teeth.  Did you know that the majority of brands that include ingredients for whitening your teeth are harmful to tooth enamel! We sat down with Dr. James Wells, popular dentist in Charlotte, to find out how he addressed some of the most commonly asked questions about toothpaste and enamel loss.

Discussion with Dr. James Wells – South Charlotte Dentistry
Alex:  What does toothpaste have to do with enamel loss?
Dr. Wells:  The erosive ingredients in many popular toothpaste brands and over-the-counter whitening products expedite enamel erosion.  Advertisers promote clean teeth and whitening but prolonged usage of these products may not be the best choice.

Alex:  What toothpaste should consumers be using? 
Dr. Wells: I tell my patients that any toothpaste with ADA Approval and neutral sodium fluoride. When talking about controlling sensitivity, the choices become very slim. The two options are Colgate Sensitive Repair and Protect and Sensodyne Toothpaste. Both of these options are ADA approved and have active ingredients of potassium nitrate and sodium fluoride.

Alex:  Are all whitening toothpaste products bad for your teeth?
Dr. Wells: No. Any whitening toothpaste with the ADA seal of approval can be considered safe, if used in moderation.

Alex:  What ingredients in toothpaste are harmful, or erode enamel?
Dr. Wells: Depending on your toothpaste, these ingredients may differ. Different toothpastes can be more abrasive than others so it is important to know what is in your toothpaste. To find this information, you must look at your toothpastes’ RDA (Relative Dentin Abrasivity). A normal limit in a toothpaste is 250 RDA. But, the higher the abrasivity, the more sensitivity it can cause over time.

Alex:  Can you get enamel back that you have lost?
Dr. Wells:  Some toothpaste brands claim that they can restore the enamel in your teeth. In reality, it takes years for anyone to notice a difference. Prescription toothpaste could help to slow

down the loss of enamel, but it cannot help to rebuild what is already gone. Another option is dental work, like dental implants. This would be known as a quick fix. But, ONCE IT’S GONE, IT’S GONE.

Alex:  Is there a way to measure enamel loss?
Dr. Wells:  Yes. An x-ray could show you and the dentist how bad your enamel loss is. You can also tell by getting impressions of your teeth. Over time, we would be able to tell the loss.

Alex:  How long could it take to notice enamel loss?
Dr. Wells:  Everyone is different in terms of levels of plaque, tartar, and stain build up on your teeth. So, it can vary from person to person. Once you pass the layer of enamel on a tooth, you get to a section called, “Dentin.” Dentin is the layer of nerves in a tooth. Once you lose enamel, the dentin is exposed and can be irritated more easily. This is normally when someone would notice enamel loss.


Alex:  Can your diet affect your enamel loss?
Dr. Wells:  100%! What you eat affects your teeth. A diet that contains a lot of acidity and sugar are more likely to lose tooth enamel much more quickly. This is not to say you should not eat candy or not drink soda, but if you do, brush your teeth to stop that bacteria from forming.

Alex:  Are there other ways that people may be losing tooth enamel?
Dr. Wells:  Most enamel loss can be seen from grinding your teeth at night. This can be helped by wearing a night guard at night. Some say that the loss of enamel could be due to the decreased amount of fluoride people are drinking. Most people drink bottled water instead of tap water. Tap water contains fluoride, while bottled water does not. So, this could be a small factor. Enamel can also be lost naturally over the years. It’s just like getting older, it’s inevitable.

Alex:  Can you stop enamel erosion?
Dr. Wells:  Yes! By changing your diet, adjusting your bit, and better home care, your enamel loss could come to a halt. There are some toothpastes on the market that claim to be reparative, such as Sensodyne Pro Enamel Health.

Alex:  Did you know… the top three ingredients in most toothpaste is water, sugar alcohol and SAND!
Dr. Wells:  Yes!  If you are interested in finding a better solution.  Look for a toothpaste with the first ACTIVE ingredient of potassium nitrate. Potassium Nitrate is an anti-sensitivity ingredient that helps to desensitize the nerves and can help protect your enamel.

In summary, don’t risk your dental health any longer! You are now equipped with the knowledge and tools to stop enamel loss. Dr. Wells and his staff are excited to help you choose safe products that are affordable! Make an appointment today at South Charlotte Dentistry!

Article by Alex Watson, CCP Web Design


Sources:
“Colgate Sensitive Prevent and Repair (Paste, Dentifrice) Mission Hills S.A De C.V.” Drugs.com, 12 Apr. 2019, https://www.drugs.com/otc/128755/colgate-sensitive-prevent-and-repair.html.

Murphy, Caleb. “What Is Relative Dentin Abrasivity Scale (RDA)?: AuthorityDental.” Authority Dental, 9 July 2019, https://www.authoritydental.org/relative-dentin-abrasivity.

“Seal Product Shopping List.” Shopping List of All Products with the ADA Seal of Acceptance, https://www.ada.org/en/science-research/ada-seal-of-acceptance/ada-seal-shopping-list.

“Sensodyne.” Drugs.com, https://www.drugs.com/international/sensodyne.html.

Is Whitening Toothpaste Worth It? Why You Might Want to Explore Other Options

All of us like the thought of having a mouth full of glistening white teeth. Along with being a sign of good oral health, whiter teeth can enhance your appearance and boost your self-confidence, among other benefits. Plus, you’re likely to smile more often when you have a set of shining ivories to back it up, and smiling comes with its own set of physical, mental, and emotional benefits. But are we risking our health when using whitening agents?

That brings us to how one can achieve a darling smile with whiter teeth. Since you use toothpaste on a daily basis anyway, shouldn’t you use whitening toothpaste so that you can kill two birds with one stone—better oral hygiene and whiter teeth?
The answer is yes and no. Whitening toothpaste can remove certain amounts of surface stains from your teeth. However, if used incorrectly, it can also damage the enamel of your teeth in the process. Therefore, it’s important to understand what you’re getting into when you pick that tube of whitening toothpaste off the shelf.
To decide if whitening toothpaste is right for you, it’s worth considering a few factors: how it works, how to use it, what damaged enamel entails, and what alternatives there are to achieve whiter teeth.

How Whitening Toothpaste Works 
Most toothpaste has gentle abrasives, fluoride, and other ingredients to keep cavities and gum disease at bay. Whitening toothpaste typically has more abrasives, similar ingredients, plus low levels of bleaching chemicals. Some of the most commonly used of these mild abrasives include hydrated aluminum oxides, silica, magnesium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and sodium bicarbonate (baking soda). These abrasives work to scrub surface stains caused by coffee, tea, tobacco, and so on.
Additionally, common bleaching agents used in whitening toothpaste include hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. These chemicals usually come in such a low dose that the whitening toothpaste is unlikely to cause sensitivity or irritation. However, any brightening of the teeth is relatively minor and takes a significant amount of time.

How to Use Whitening Toothpaste
It’s likely that how you use whitening toothpaste is more important than if you use it. Any ADA-approved whitening toothpaste you find on the market is considered safe for teeth, as long as you apply proper brushing techniques and frequencies.
For instance, it’s advisable to use a soft-bristle brush and not to brush too vigorously. Also, you should never brush your teeth more than the toothpaste label or your dentist suggests. Some people may feel the need to scrub harder than necessary, thinking that it will help remove more stains, when in fact this can lead to the erosion of your enamel.

What Happens When Your Enamel is Damaged  
Enamel is a substance on the outer layer of your teeth, and it’s your teeth’s first line of defense against chemicals from food, drink, and bodily fluids. Fortunately, it’s also the toughest tissue your body has. Nonetheless, it can still experience wear and tear over time, especially if you fail to brush regularly (or brush too hard and frequently with whitening toothpaste). Once the enamel has eroded, it cannot grow back, but proper dental hygiene can prevent erosion from escalating.
Short-term symptoms of tooth enamel erosion include discoloration, heightened sensitivity, and cracks. Long-term erosion can lead to stains, rough edges, and shiny spots on your teeth. The most advanced enamel erosion can result in severe tooth decay and fractured teeth.

Alternatives to Whitening Toothpaste
Whitening toothpaste, when used properly, can make teeth appear slightly whiter over time. But it’s important to remember that it can only remove stains on the surface of your teeth and that the results will likely not be very noticeable.
If you want your smile to be significantly brighter and reduce the risk of enamel erosion, you are better off to go with a teeth-whitening system. You have two primary options here: over-the-counter products (e.g., gel trays, strips) or those administered by your dentist. Whitening gel can be especially effective, as it flows through the enamel tubules to reach the dentin—the tissue beneath the enamel that absorbs most of a stain.
Both over-the-counter and dentist-administered whitening systems contain higher concentrations of peroxide than whitening toothpaste, and either can provide more noticeable results. Generally speaking, over-the-counter products have 5-15% peroxide and professional dental-strength products have 25-40%. Before choosing a whitening product, be sure to consult your dentist.

The Verdict
ADA-approved whitening toothpaste may not be harmful in and of itself, but it can lead to enamel erosion if not applied properly, and it likely won’t yield the results you’re looking for. When it comes down to it, there are safer, more effective options on the market worth considering. Come by South Charlotte Dentistry to discuss your options with our team!

Update on Fluoride: Just How Safe is Our Water?

Though previous studies have touted the positive attributes to the addition of fluoride to our water—such as its inclusion of whitening agents and the reduction of tooth decay—a 2019 study is the first to suggest otherwise. This most recent finding indicates some possible dangers to fluoride, especially in adolescents.

The Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine cited a study done in 2019 that had some troubling findings. According to the study, “exposure to fluoride may contribute to complex changes in kidney and liver function among youth in the United States, where 74 percent of public water systems add fluoride for dental health benefits.” This is big news, considering just about every one of us is exposed to fluoride through our tap water.
It’s important to note who this seems to affect the most: adolescents. Why this group over any other? Well, the kidneys accumulate most of the fluoride we put into our bodies. What we have found is an adolescent's body actually only excretes 45 percent of fluoride through the kidneys, whereas an adult secretes fluoride at a rate of 60 percent, meaning adults can likely pass the chemical without any negative side effects.
This research also indicates that "adolescents with poorer kidney or liver function may absorb more fluoride in their bodies.” With potential side effects like renal system damage, thyroid dysfunction, liver damage, tooth disease, and impaired protein metabolism, people—particularly those with children—are beginning to seriously question if our water is safe.
Sure, we all grew up feeling just fine and we drank right from the faucet. But, there are those who feel the risk isn’t worth ignoring. So what can be done? Plenty, actually.

The Berkey Water Filtration System
Just because your fridge may filter your water, or you have a separate water container with a built-in filter, fluoride is still most likely in your water. It’s tough to get out, and filters can be anywhere from $30 to $300.
One option, though it will cost a bit more upfront, is the Berkey Water Filtration System. These systems range in price from $250 to around $700, but they provide gallons of crystal-clear, and fluoride-free, water.
They usually come in two stackable metal cylinders. The top is filled with water and gravity pulls the water through the four filters. And these heavy-duty filters only need to be changed every few years—if even then. These are perfect for big families. Everyone gets a water bottle and keeps it filled. This is also a great way to cut back on your plastic use, and it only takes a year or so (depending on how much water you typically buy) to pay for your new water system. Then it's free, freshwater for everyone.
But, if you’re not feeling up to spending a few hundred for a new water filtration system, there are other, less expensive, options. Check these two out:

• Priced at $70, the Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher cleans fluoride, Lead, Chloramine, and Chromium-6 from your water. The pitcher is BPA free and easily fits into the fridge.
• You can also go smaller with a $35 water bottle that has a fluoride filter attached. The Seychelle Extreme Water Filter Bottle is great for camping, travel, hiking, or backpacking, and it removes bacteria, viruses, radiological contaminants, and fluoride. It holds 28 ounces of water.

Fluoride-Free Bottled Water
Even if you don’t feel up to buying special water filtration systems, there are plenty of bottled waters out there for purchase that are fluoride-free. Here is a list of some of the most popular ones:

• Arbor Springs Drinking Water
• Arbor Springs Purified Water
• Arbor Springs Spring Water
• Deer Park
• Diamond Spring Water
• Evian
• Fresh Market
• Glacier Bay
• Hidden Valley Natural Mineral Water
• Nestle Pure Life
• Oasis Pure Drinking Water
• Oasis Sparkling Water
• Perrier
• Poland Spring
• Volvic

Until more studies come out that can provide more information on the possible dangers of consuming fluoride in adolescents, it is important not to panic. There are plenty of options to keep your little ones fluoride-free, and you don't have to break the bank to do it.

As always, at South Charlotte Dentistry, we care most about your health. If you have concerns for your children, or would like to know more about the effects of fluoride, stop in and see us. We are always happy to help.

*Sources:
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/08/190808091358.htm

Re-Growing Lost Gum Tissue & Other Repair Techniques for Gum Loss

South Charlotte Dentistry sees many cases of periodontal disease, ranging from early mild stages to late severe stages, but mainly those moderate cases of gum degeneration. Our patients, alongside half of all American adults, are eager to find out about how or if they can re-grow lost gum tissue, or otherwise repair gum loss. South Charlotte Dentistry delivers the latest news on exciting findings in the dentistry field, and discusses gum repair techniques available to our patients to ensure that they have the best information available for advocating for a healthy, happy smile.

In March 2019, the American Chemical Society journal, Nano released an article titled, "New technique could help regrow tissue lost to periodontal disease." This report discussed exciting new findings where researchers have found that the development of a membrane can help periodontal tissue regenerate when implanted into the gums of rats.

What are the takeaways from this study?

Scientists have been trying to regrow lost gum tissue and bone from periodontal disease for ages. They tried implanting pieces of polymers (a small piece of mesh-like material) at the root of the tooth, in the aims of generating new gum and bone cells.

So what was the issue? A second surgery was required to remove the polymeric membrane that could get in the way of the healing process. When scientists developed more biodegradable membranes, they didn't work as well for re-growing that periodontal tissue.

The current study featured a new, nano-fibrous membrane of poly(ε-caprolactone), a biocompatible polymer. This was coated in polydopamine (PDA), which is a synthetic polymer with sticky consistency that can attach to wet surfaces. When this new membrane was implanted into the gums of rats with periodontal defects, bones at those defected sites regenerated to normal levels within weeks, and the membranes degraded. Researchers are now working to add more components to the membrane that further aid healing and prevent infection.
 

Why is this study so important?

We're not just nerding out at South Charlotte Dentistry, honest! As periodontal disease is associated with age, and Americans are living longer and keeping more of their natural teeth, more and more adults are suffering from the effects of the disease. This means that for our practice and for dental practices everywhere, periodontal disease will become a more prominent issue for the overall health of our population.

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal, or gum disease, is an inflammatory condition of the gum and bone support (periodontal tissues) surrounding the teeth, in which the gums, ligaments, and bone become infected. This damages the soft tissue and the bone that supports your tooth. "Periodontitis" literally means "inflammation around the tooth."

On a scale of common to rare, where does periodontal disease fall?

Periodontal disease is very common. In fact, the US sees more than 3 million cases per year. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about half of all Americans will have periodontal disease during their lifetime.

A study titled "Prevalence of Periodontitis in Adults in the United States: 2009 and 2010" estimates that 64.7 million American adults (42.7% of the adult population, or one out of every two adults aged 30 and over) have mild to moderate or severe periodontitis. Of that 42.7 %, 30% have moderate periodontitis, with 8.7% being mild, and 8.5% severe. Among adults aged 65 years and older, the rates of periodontitis increase to 70.1%.

What is the main cause of periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease occurs when bacteria and plaque build-up around the tooth, and as a result, the immune system launches into action against it.

How do I know if I have periodontal disease, and how do dentists diagnose periodontal disease?

An annually comprehensive periodontal evaluation is the best way to identify the disease.
This happens once a year during one of your scheduled dental cleanings. A dental professional will examine each tooth above and below the gum line. You may not have realized this was happening beforehand, but the hygienist or dentist will use a periodontal probe (a tool with a ball end, a colored band at 3.5-5.5mm, and another colored band at 8.5-11.5mm) and call out a number between 0 and 4 for each tooth, measuring how deep the gum line is. This is the standard clinical examination of the periodontium or gums.

What are the symptoms of periodontal disease?

• inflamed or swollen gums, and recurrent swelling in the gums
• bright red, sometimes purple gums
• pain when the gums are touched
• receding gums, which make the teeth look longer
• extra spaces appearing between the teeth
• pus between the teeth and gums
• bleeding when brushing teeth or flossing
• a metallic taste in the mouth
• halitosis, or bad breath
• loose teeth

Who is at risk?

Those who have a more weakened immune system or partake in the following risk factors are more susceptible to periodontal disease:

• Smokers
• Females undergoing hormonal changes (i.e. from puberty, pregnancy, or menopause)
• Diabetic people
• People with AIDS
• Cancer patients, or those undergoing cancer treatment
• People medicated with drugs such as antihypertensive, vasodilating agents, or immunotherapy, that reduce saliva and increase chances of gum disease
• People genetically predisposed to gum disease

What are the treatment options?

Good oral hygiene is part of both treatment and prevention. For moderate and severe cases of periodontitis, medicated mouthwashes and medications can be used to treat periodontitis, including:

• Prescription antimicrobial mouth rinse, such as chlorhexidine
• Antiseptic chip
• Antibiotic gel
• Antibiotic microspheres
• Enzyme suppressant
• Oral antibiotics

Periodontal scaling is a nonsurgical procedure to treat your teeth and gums against plaque, bacteria, and tartar deposits. The dental professional targets the area below the gum line and along the roots using an ultrasonic scaling device and/or manual instruments to gently remove plaque and tartar. Scaling can also involve delivering an antimicrobial agent into the pocket to treat and reduce bacteria.
Next, root planing goes deeper to remove cementum and surface dentin, smoothing out affected root areas in order to decrease gum tissue inflammation and allow your gums to reattach to your teeth. A properly planed root surface helps fight against bacteria, tartar, and plaque when they want to relocate under your gum line, and promotes root healing.

When good oral hygiene and non-surgical treatments aren't effective, sometimes surgery may be necessary. Those options can include:

• Flap surgery to lift and remove deep pockets, and remove tartar
• Bone and tissue grafts to regenerate bone or gum tissue that has been destroyed, using new natural or synthetic bone, which promotes growth
• Guided tissue regeneration (GTR), which as we mentioned before, uses barrier membranes to direct the growth of new bone and gum tissues to regenerate tissue and repair defects from periodontitis

Success in a periodontal treatment really can depend on how advanced the periodontal disease is, how well the patient adheres to a proper oral hygiene program, and other health and activity factors (i.e. smoking, or other preexisting conditions).

What happens if periodontal disease goes untreated? Can periodontitis kill you?

Because periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease, it has been associated with other chronic inflammatory diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Is there a home remedy?

Sure there is! It may not be what you are picturing, it is not all that glamorous, and it definitely doesn't involve fancy polymers inserted in your teeth. Here it is:

• Brush your teeth with a suitable toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily for at least two minutes, carefully cleaning the chewing surfaces, sides of the teeth, and all of the hard-to-reach places (including—very gently!—on the gum line) around your mouth
• Consider using a manual or electric toothbrush with soft bristles, and replace this toothbrush every 3 to 4 months
• Do not share toothbrushes—bacteria can pass from person to person
• Floss every day! Consider using an interdental brush to clean gaps around the teeth and those small spots where a toothbrush cannot reach. Dental floss is great for small gaps, but a dental brush is really useful for larger spaces in your mouth
• Uneven surfaces are more susceptible to periodontal disease, so take extra care in cleaning around closely-packed teeth, crooked teeth, crowns, dentures, fillings, etc.
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash to help prevent bacteria from growing and reduce inflammatory reaction in the mouth. Plus, you'll be taking that extra step to freshen your breath after brushing and flossing!

What are the stages of periodontal disease?

There are two stages. First, gingivitis occurs. Gingivitis is basically gum inflammation, whereas periodontitis refers to gum disease, or the destruction of tissue and bone.

Gingivitis occurs when bacterial plaque builds upon the surface of the tooth and causes the gums to become red, inflamed, and susceptible to bleeding. With gingivitis, there is no irreversible damage occurring to the bone or tissue, just irritated and bothersome gums.

As gingivitis progresses, it leads to periodontitis. This is when the gum and bone pull away from the teeth and form large, deep pockets where debris and bacteria can collect. Bacteria between the gum and teeth leads to an infection, as the plaque is now below the gum line. But, it isn't just the plaque and bacterial toxins destroying bone and tissue—it's your immune system. Your immune system's response to the infection in the pockets is to fight the infection, all leading to the destruction of gum and bone.

What can periodontitis lead to?

Periodontitis can lead to serious medical issues and even death. For example, when someone with periodontitis chews or brushes their teeth, bacteria can potentially enter the bloodstream, which increases the clotting risk and risk of stroke. Healthy teeth and gums can also decrease the chances of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, preterm pregnancies, prostate cancer, and breast cancer.

Will I lose my teeth if I have periodontal disease?

Not in a mild or moderate case, but left untreated, this chronic inflammatory disease badly affects the gum tissue and structures supporting the teeth, leading to eventual tooth loss.

Can South Charlotte Dentistry tell me more about gum loss and gum repair?

Absolutely! Our team is always here at South Charlotte Dentistry, located conveniently in the Ballantyne area of South Charlotte to help you with any questions you might have. You may also be interested in our limited-time New Patient Special that includes a comprehensive dental exam and full x-rays for only $69.00. Our existing patients can tell you all about our friendly and welcoming team that ensures a low-stress, but high-quality dental experience.

If you're looking for a highly rated, clean, and patient-centered dentist in the South Charlotte area, then look no further! South Charlotte Family and Cosmetic Dentistry will provide you the best dental care in South Charlotte—whether you're in the market for gum regrowth and repair, or just a simple dental cleaning!


-Tayler Green

The Fascinating Story Inside Our Teeth

We all know that teeth exist in our mouths as a way to chew and digest food. What may come as a bit more of a surprise is that our teeth don’t exist for the sole purpose of eating. Actually, it’s quite the contrary. They are, in fact, a vast window into everything from our personalities to our genetics. Teeth can reveal many characteristics about us from the type of diet we consume to whether or not we’re prone to anxiety and depression. Essentially, a person’s teeth are like a fingerprint of their soul; no two sets are exactly alike.

Teeth and Personality

You’ve probably heard the saying, “A Smile is Worth a Thousand Words.” But have you ever heard that a “Smile is Worth a Thousand Personality Traits?” While that exact saying may not sound familiar, the words themselves ring true. Your teeth can reveal everything about you from your dominant personality traits to your gender. Here are just a handful of the ways your pearly whites can help uncover what makes you, “you.”

• Male vs. Female - Male incisors are longer and more square in shape, whereas female incisors are shorter and rounder.

• Old vs. Young - Younger teeth tend to look more rectangular whereas older teeth will be more square. This is because the average human will lose between 1-5mm of their tooth length throughout their lifetime.

• Passive vs. Aggressive - People with longer, sharper incisors tend to be more aggressive than those with rounder, shorter incisors.

• Clenching and Grinding - Whenever there is evidence of clenching and grinding of teeth, there is a good chance that someone is suffering from anxiety, long-term stress, and/or depression. This can also be an indication of an aggressive personality.

• Four Personality Types - First coined by Hippocrates around 460BC, the four original personality types were determined through the shape of the teeth.
  • TRIANGLE (at the top of the tooth, not the base) equals traits such as extroverted, communicative, and impulsive.
  • RECTANGLE represents passion, determination, and objectiveness.
  • OVAL represents someone who is artistic, organized, and reserved.
  • SQUARE shaped teeth tend to represent people who are diplomatic, spiritual, and discreet.

Teeth and Evolution

Similar to personality, our teeth can tell us a lot about the history of humans and how we’ve become the people we are today. For example, did you know that when we are young, carbon from the food we eat becomes part of our enamel, essentially providing a “window” into our diet? Scientists can use this carbon to determine the diets of ancient humans and animals which, in turn, helps us to better understand the evolution of our planet along with the people and creatures that inhabit it.
Another tool used by researchers to learn about our ancestors is the growth lines that are formed on enamel. Similar to the way a tree adds a ring for every year of its life, enamel typically adds a growth line every eight days, although it can sometimes be as fast as once a day depending on your stage in life. By researching growth lines in ancient humans, scientists can better understand how fast people developed throughout different periods in history and whether that growth is speeding up or slowing down in today’s modern society.

Teeth and Genetics

At this point, it probably shouldn’t come as a surprise that genetics and teeth are also interrelated. Here are a few of the ways that genetics can affect your smile:

• If your parents had crooked teeth when they were kids then the chances are higher that you will have similar issues as well.
• Yellow teeth can also be partially caused by genetics. The thickness of your enamel, which hides the yellow inner layer of your tooth, is handed down from your parents. So if you’re born with less enamel, you will tend to have yellower teeth because the thinner enamel will show the tooth hiding behind it.
• If your teeth came in early or late when you were a baby, then your children will most likely have a similar experience. Incidentally, boys tend to follow their father’s teeth pattern and girls follow their mother’s.
• Your genetics can also help determine if you’re at higher risk for dental issues such as periodontitis, tooth decay, and oral cancer.

Teeth are a fascinating window into who we are and where we came from. They not only allow us to better understand our personalities, but they also educate us on where we came from and where we’re headed in the future. To learn more, visit us at https://southcharlottedentistry.com

-Julie Mastbrook

Works Cited

 “Are Oral Health Issues Genetic?” Are Oral Health Issues Genetic? - 5 Conditions That Can Run in the Family, June 2016, www.deltadentalins.com/oral_health/are-oral-health-issues-genetic.html.

Craig, Jeffrey, et al. “Bad Teeth? Here's When You Can and Can't Blame Your Parents.” The Conversation, 27 June 2019, theconversation.com/bad-teeth-heres-when-you-can-and-cant-blame-your-parents-83887.

Guatelli-Steinburg, Debbie. “Your Teeth Are a Window to Your Evolutionary History, and Your Future.” The News Minute, The Ohio State University, 6 Mar. 2017, www.thenewsminute.com/article/your-teeth-are-window-your-evolutionary-history-and-your-future-58184.

“The History of Humanity in Your Face.” ScienceDaily, Arizona State University, 15 Apr. 2019, www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/04/190415113813.htm.
Sunstein, Dr. Robert. “What Do Your Teeth Say About Your Personality?” La Jolla Light, La Jolla Light, 18 July 2013, www.lajollalight.com/sdljl-what-do-your-teeth-say-about-your-personality-2013jul18-story.html.

“The Surprising Things Your Teeth Reveal About You.” Carrington College, Carrington College, 6 Dec. 2013, carrington.edu/blog/dental/surprising-things-teeth-reveal/.

Chronic Cheek Biting: Here’s What We Know

About 750 out of every 1 million people are chronic cheek biters, according to a recent study done by the US National Library of Medicine. Now, we have all accidentally clamped down on the side of the cheek, and we know how bad it hurts. So why would anyone choose to chronically nibble at such a sensitive area of the mouth? Turns out there are a number of reasons so many of us are habitual biters.

750 Out of Every 1 Million

There is no simple cause evident for chronic cheek biting. Studies do provide a number of possible reasons for such behavior, and it seems the most regularly noted reason for cheek biting, linked across studies, is stress. 

There were a few other similarities in the studies. It turns out chronic cheek biting is seen more in females than in males. And, it is a behavior found to be more prevalent in children than adults. Though these two important findings are not reasons for chronic cheek biting, they do provide specific groups from which we can, hopefully, derive specific answers.

The Psychology Behind Chronic Cheek Biting

Even though we don’t yet completely understand why chronic cheek biting occurs, there are a lot of respected ideas and opinions on the topic.

Some researchers believe this chronic behavior is due to genetics, and if we make the efforts to research our own histories we can find out how likely we are to raise our own little cheek biters. Critics have combated this reasoning with the notion that even if genetics are to blame, we still don’t have a source or clear reason for the behavior. Plus, even if genetics do play a part, there can still be other factors at play, such as stress, environment, and emotional imbalance.

Many agree stress is related to chronic cheek biting; most believe it is the source for the behavior. For those who are chronic biters, test this theory by taking note when you are biting—are you stressed? Anxious or nervous? Try and pin down that most common state-of-mind you find yourself in when biting. This could be the culprit.

The Dangers of Cheek Biting

So what’s the big deal anyhow? Nobody has died from biting the inside of his cheek. This is true, but we don’t know a whole lot on the topic, so to rule out the dangers—beyond the obvious ones—might not be wise. What we do know is that when chronic cheek biting occurs, the biting is superficial; these are not deep bites that bleed and become sore—at least not right away. The bites are tiny and painless, but after time when the membrane has been worn down, sores can begin to form. Research also indicates that those who bite chronically usually have their “favorite” spots to chew.

Here is what happens when chronic cheek biting occurs:

• The bitten area becomes scarred and tough and inflamed. This becomes uncomfortable and makes chewing and talking difficult.
• Once the area is bitten most people find themselves biting more in the attempt to create a smooth surface; this, however, just exacerbates the problem.
• Extreme cases can leave open sores in the mouth—which can then become infected.
• Research is not completely clear on the connection between the two, but some researchers believe cheek biting can lead to cancer.

Stopping the Act

The good news is that chronic cheek biting is a behavior and can be corrected. The first step is to pay extra attention to when you are eating. Often times we begin biting an area that has already been chomped on by accident. Also, if you have a misalignment this could greatly increase your chances of accidentally biting the inside of your mouth.

One way to stop biting once you have already started is to substitute the habit every time you catch yourself in the act. Sugarless gum and mints are good substitutes, but you might try and stop the habit without a replacement—it could be easier than you think.

Remember that cheek biting is a behavior, a habit, and one that can be stopped. It may take a few times to get there, but you can do it. And if you find yourself biting due to a misalignment, or you just need some extra advice, come see us at South Charlotte Dentistry.

-Andrae Bergeron

*Sources:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325985.php;

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/cheek-biting-_b_818047

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3793567/

Mouthwash

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The Benefits of Intermittent Fasting on Your Oral Health

Whether it’s the Keto, Paleo, or low-calorie and no-sugar, there always seems to be a new dieting craze around the corner. Fasting (abstaining from food for a period of time) is the latest fad diet, but, with a possibility for physical and oral health benefits, this method may be more than just a flash in the pan.

At first thought, it makes sense why fasting would be beneficial both physically and orally. Though there are many types of fasts—dry fast, absolute fast, partial fast—physically you are, well, starving yourself. So it makes sense your body would react by burning fat for energy. Orally, by having fewer bacteria and saliva in the mouth due to constant eating, or rather not constantly eating, the teeth and gums have a chance to grow and heal and thrive.

Effects on Oral Health

There may be a good case for the physical effects of fasting, but what about how it affects our oral health? Is it truly good for our teeth and gums to go that long without food?

According to the famous naturopath Dr. Herbert Shelton, fasting can have dramatically beneficial effects on eradicating tooth decay and gum disease, but he also notes that a poorly planned and executed fast can cause damage to oral health.

Fasting relaxes the body by giving it a chance to rest from all the chewing and swallowing and digesting. We forget that our bones and gums are living things that need to be used, but also need breaks. The absence of food lets our teeth and gums repair, and by drinking water during a fast you are able to have a thorough rinse during the process.

So if you’ve had it with the fad diets, and you would like to give your oral health a chance to improve, look into intermittent fasting. Here are a few tips to get you going:

1. Start by fasting for twelve hours and count your sleep time towards these hours. So if you were to stop eating by 7 pm, you could eat breakfast at 7 am. Not too bad, right? You don’t even have to do this every day. Pick a few days a week to get you going.
2. Next, move up to sixteen hours. Typically people at this step stop eating around 8 pm, skip breakfast the next morning, and eat again around noon.
3. Once you have gotten used to fasting the 16:8 method (16-hour period fasting: 8- hour period eating) for a few days a week, move on to alternating the days you fast—one off, one on.
4. From here, vary the way you fast to see which fits into your lifestyle best. You can fast every day, every other, or go weeks where you fast and then take weeks off. It’s really up to you.

A Bit More on Intermittent Fasting

As we increasingly become aware of our physical health and the aging process, we find ourselves mining for new methods, new understandings of how we can feel and look our very best, all the time. Cynthia Thurlow, an experienced nurse practitioner and functional nutritionist, challenges our common dieting practices (i.e., three meals a day, and snacking throughout the day) in a recent Ted Talk by providing cause for what she calls “intermittent fasting.” She begins her presentation by stating that breakfast is not the most important meal of the day and that the recent encouragement to snack throughout the day is not what we should be doing. The most beneficial meal we can get might be no meal at all.

She goes on to cite numerous examples where she has seen people integrate intermittent fasting into their lives only to find themselves much healthier and happier.

Her key points:

• Eating three meals a day/snacking throughout overtaxes our organs. This overworking of our body makes us age faster and lose energy quicker. 
• Intermittent Fasting, the “absence of food during a prescribed time period,” gives your body time to react and rejuvenate itself. She suggests fasting for a period of sixteen hours and then taking a period of eight hours when you can eat. Begin by fasting for ten to twelve hours then move up to sixteen. During the fasting period, you are able to drink coffee and tea and, of course, water.
• Thurlow suggests trying intermittent fasting for thirty days before deciding if it is truly beneficial or not for you.

Regardless of how used to fasting you are, if you ever find yourself getting dizzy or nauseous, it is a good idea to eat something. Good luck!

-Andrae Bergeron

*Sources:

•    https://www.healingteethnaturally.com/dr-herbert-shelton-fasting-effects-on-teeth.html

•    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A6Dkt7zyImk

Symptoms & Solutions: Maintaining Good Oral Health

Unexpected dental pain can be alarming, not to mention painful! The level and length of pain vary and there are also ongoing issues (such as bad breath) that may have underlying causes that need to be addressed. Fillings, crowns, dentures, and orthodontic work can come loose or occasional break as well. The following is a guide of common dental issues to be on the lookout for.

Top Ten Dental Symptoms from www.mouthhealthy.org and the American Dental Association:

1) Symptom: Toothache

If your mouth or jaw hurts, it could be from a toothache. Toothaches usually indicate a cavity but they can also signal gum disease. In some cases, a toothache is a sign of an abscess or impacted tooth. A toothache should be evaluated by a dentist right away to determine the cause of the problem and prevent the tooth from dying.

An abscessed tooth (toothache) is an infection caused by tooth decay, periodontal disease, or a cracked tooth. These problems can let bacteria enter the pulp (the soft tissue of a tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue) and can lead to pulp death. When pus builds up at the root tip in the jaw bone, it forms a pus-pocket called an abscess. If the abscess is not treated, it can lead to a serious infection in the jawbone, teeth, and surrounding tissues.
Symptoms of an abscess include:

• pain
• swelling
• redness in the gums
• bad taste in the mouth
• fever

An abscessed tooth can be treated with various treatments, depending on the severity of the infection.


2) Symptom: Sensitive Teeth

If your teeth hurt when you drink hot or cold beverages, you may have sensitive teeth. This can be the result of tooth decay, fractured teeth, worn fillings, gum disease, worn tooth enamel, or an exposed tooth root due to gum recession. Treatment will depend on the source of sensitivity.
Possible causes include:

• tooth decay (cavities)
• fractured teeth
• worn fillings (or damaged dental work)
• gum disease
• worn tooth enamel
• exposed tooth root

In healthy teeth, a layer of enamel protects the crowns of your teeth—the part above the gum line. Under the gum line, a layer called cementum protects the tooth root. Underneath both the enamel and the cementum is dentin.

Dentin is less dense than enamel and cementum and contains microscopic tubules (small hollow tubes or canals). When dentin loses its protective covering of enamel or cementum these tubules allow heat and cold or acidic or sticky foods to reach the nerves and cells inside the tooth. Dentin may also be exposed when gums recede. The result can be hypersensitivity.
Sensitive teeth can be treated. The type of treatment will depend on what is causing the sensitivity.

3) Symptom: Bleeding or Sore Gums

Bleeding or sore gums can be a sign of gingivitis, an early and reversible stage of gum disease, or simply the result of brushing too hard or starting a new flossing routine. If your gums bleed regularly, or enough to worry you, make an appointment with your dentist or physician, it could be a sign that something else is wrong.

There are many reasons your gums could bleed. In some cases, bleeding gums can be a sign of gingivitis, the early stage of periodontal disease. If your gums bleed easily or bleed when you brush, talk to your dentist about your oral health. Gingivitis is reversible and preventable.
If you’ve just started a new flossing routine, for instance, your gums may bleed at first as they get used to cleaning between the teeth. This usually goes away on its own in about a week. Some pregnant women develop a condition known as “pregnancy gingivitis,” an inflammation of the gums that can cause swelling and tenderness. Gums may also bleed a little when brushing or flossing. If you take blood thinners, these medications may cause your gums to bleed as well. Contact your physician if the bleeding does not stop quickly. Your gums could also be bleeding if you brush too hard. Use an extra-soft or soft-bristled toothbrush when brushing your teeth.
If your gums bleed regularly or enough to worry you, make an appointment with your dentist or physician. It could be a sign something else is wrong.

4) Symptom: Mouth Sores

Types of mouth sores include canker sores, cold sores, leukoplakia, and candidiasis. These vary in their severity and causes. Mouth sores could be the symptom of a disease or disorder; infection from bacteria, viruses or fungus, or result from irritation caused by braces, dentures or the sharp edge of a broken tooth or filling. Your dentist should examine any mouth sore that lasts a week or longer.

5) Symptom: Bad Breath

Bad breath can be caused by what you eat, not cleaning your mouth, dry mouth, smoking, or other medical conditions. Persistent bad breath can also be one of the warning signs of gum disease. Brushing twice a day and flossing daily are essential to reducing bad breath and preventing gum disease. Brushing your tongue can help too. If you’re concerned about what’s causing your bad breath, see your dentist.

Bad breath happens. If you’ve ever gotten that not-so-fresh feeling on a date, at a job interview, or just talking with friends, you’re not alone. Studies show that 50 percent of adults have had bad breath, or halitosis, at some point in their lives.

What Causes Bad Breath?

There are a number of reasons you might have dragon breath. While many causes are harmless, bad breath can sometimes be a sign of something more serious.

Bacteria
Bad breath can happen anytime thanks to the hundreds of types of bad breath-causing bacteria that naturally live in your mouth. Your mouth also acts like a natural hothouse that allows these bacteria to grow. When you eat, bacteria feed on the food left in your mouth and leave a foul smell behind.

Dry Mouth
Feeling parched? Your mouth might not be making enough saliva. Saliva is important because it works around the clock to wash out your mouth. If you don’t have enough, your mouth isn’t being cleaned as much as it should be.  Dry mouth can be caused by certain medications, salivary gland problems, or by simply breathing through your mouth.

Gum Disease
Bad breath that just won’t go away or a constant bad taste in your mouth can be a warning sign of advanced gum disease, which is caused by a sticky, cavity-causing bacteria called plaque.

Food
Garlic, onions, coffee… The list of breath-offending foods is long, and what you eat affects the air you exhale.

Smoking and Tobacco
Smoking stains your teeth gives you bad breath and puts you at risk for a host of health problems. Tobacco reduces your ability to taste foods and irritates gum tissues. Tobacco users are more likely to suffer from gum disease than non-tobacco users.

Medical Conditions
Mouth infections can cause bad breath. However, if your dentist has ruled out other causes and you brush and floss every day, your bad breath could be the result of another problem, such as a sinus condition, gastric reflux, diabetes, or liver or kidney disease. In these cases, see your healthcare provider.

6) Symptom: Jaw Pain or Popping/Clicking in the Jaw

Many things can cause these symptoms, which can make it difficult to diagnose. Possible causes include sinus problems, toothaches, arthritis, injury, teeth grinding, gingivitis, or problems with your jaw like TMJ. Your dentist will conduct a thorough exam, which may include X-rays, to determine the source of the pain.

Many adults suffer from chronic jaw and facial pain. Some common symptoms include pain in or around the ear, tenderness of the jaw, pain when biting, or headaches. Many things can cause facial pain, which can make it difficult to diagnose and treat. Your dentist will conduct a thorough exam, which may include X-rays, to determine the cause of the pain.
Possible causes of jaw pain or facial pain include:

• sinus problems
• toothache
• infections
• arthritis
• injury
• tooth grinding
• periodontal disease
• problems with your jaw or the temporomandibular joint

7) Symptom: Dry Mouth
If you have dry mouth it may be the symptom of a medical disorder or a side effect of certain medications. Saliva is the mouth’s primary defense against tooth decay. It washes away food and other debris, neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth, and provides disease-fighting substances throughout the mouth. Your dentist can recommend ways to restore moisture.

Dry mouth—also called xerostomia—results from an inadequate flow of saliva. It is not a disease, but a symptom of a medical disorder or a side effect of certain medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, pain killers, diuretics and many others.

Saliva is the mouth’s primary defense against tooth decay and maintains the health of the soft and hard tissues in the mouth. Saliva washes away food and other debris, neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth, and provides disease-fighting substances throughout the mouth, offering first-line protection against microbial invasion or overgrowth that might lead to disease. Without saliva, extensive tooth decay can also occur.

Some of the common problems associated with dry mouth include a constant sore throat, burning sensation, trouble speaking, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, or dry nasal passages.

8) Symptom: Oral Piercing Infections
Oral piercings can create a wide range of problems for your health, oral and otherwise. Your mouth is home to huge amounts of bacteria, creating an ideal place for infection to start.

9) Symptom: Cracked or Broken Tooth
A cracked or broken tooth can happen for a variety of reasons—brittle teeth, teeth grinding, injury. The crack may be invisible to the naked eye and even an X-ray, but it can be incredibly painful and create bigger problems if left untreated. If you experience pain when chewing see your dentist.

10) Symptom: Stained or Discolored Teeth
Over time your teeth can become stained and change color. This is often the result of taking in certain liquids, such as coffee or tea, smoking, aging, genetics, injury, or certain medications. Whitening options can include over the counter or in-office treatments.

Causes:

Food and Drink
Coffee, tea, and red wine are some major staining culprits, due to their intense color pigments called chromogens that attach to the white, outer part of your tooth (enamel).

Tobacco Use
Two chemicals found in tobacco create stubborn stains: tar and nicotine. Tar is naturally dark. Nicotine is colorless until it’s mixed with oxygen.

Age
Below the hard, white outer shell of your teeth (enamel) is a softer area called dentin.  Over time, the outer enamel layer gets thinner with brushing and more of the yellowish dentin shows through.

Trauma
If you’ve been hit in the mouth, your tooth may change color because it reacts to an injury by laying down more dentin, which is a darker layer under the enamel.

Medications
Tooth darkening can be a side effect of certain antihistamines, antipsychotics, and high blood pressure medications. Young children exposed to antibiotics when their teeth are forming may have discoloration of their adult teeth later in life. Chemotherapy and head and neck radiation can also darken teeth.

What if you are having a Dental Emergency?
Accidents and sudden toothaches happen and knowing what to do when one occurs can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth.

Here are some tips for common dental emergencies:

• For a knocked-out permanent or adult tooth, keep it moist at all times. If you can, try placing the tooth back in the socket without touching the root. If that’s not possible, place it in between your cheek and gums, in milk, or use a tooth preservation product that has the ADA Seal of Acceptance. Then, get to your dentist’s office right away.
• For a cracked tooth, immediately rinse the mouth with warm water to clean the area. Put cold compresses on the face to keep any swelling down.
• If you bite your tongue or lip, clean the area gently with water and apply a cold compress.
• For toothaches, rinse the mouth with warm water to clean it out. Gently use dental floss to remove any food caught between the teeth. Do not put aspirin on the aching tooth or gum tissues.
• For objects stuck in the mouth, try to gently remove with floss but do not try to remove it with sharp or pointed instruments.

Until you can get to the dentist:
If you are having issues with loose or broken dental work (like a crown or veneer) or orthodontia, avoid chewing in the area if possible. If a piece of dental work has come unattached entirely, save it for the dentist to inspect. Avoid hard and sticky foods, such as candy or chewing gum, as well as straws or any food that requires sucking (like a lollipop or popsicle). You may have a sensitivity to hot or cold during this time as well. Over the counter pain relievers and topical pain relievers may help until you see your dentist.

Here at South Charlotte Dentistry, we know it’s scary when you have a dental issue or emergency and we’re here to help. Call our office for an appointment as soon as possible if you have any of these symptoms or an emergency.

The Truth About Mouthwash – Reviews by South Charlotte Dentist

It is an age-old lesson. When we were kids, our mothers always told us to brush our teeth twice a day and rinse with mouthwash. And since we trust our mothers, this is what we have done for years, maybe even decades. What if our mothers were wrong? What if rinsing with mouthwash actually has hidden dangers to it? Sounds crazy, right? Well, it is actually true.

Our entire body, especially inside the mouth, functions on a balance of good and bad bacteria. Having a healthy balance of bacteria in your mouth helps lessen your chance of getting sick, it regulates your blood pressure, and it keeps you from contracting certain diseases; using mouthwash can upset that balance. How does this even happen? If all of this is true then why did our mothers tell us to use mouthwash so often?

Mouthwash contains a chemical mixture called chlorhexidine, also known as chlorhexidine gluconate. This mixture is a disinfectant and antiseptic that is used for disinfecting the skin before surgery and then to sterilize surgical instruments. Sounds pretty powerful, right?

When used in mouthwash, this chemical compound can destroy the good bacteria in your mouth, not just the bad stuff. For example, good bacteria is used to produce nitric oxide, which is naturally made by your body and is important for many aspects of your health. One of its most important functions is that it helps relax the muscles of your blood vessels to help them widen to increase blood circulation as necessary. However, since mouthwash eliminates that bacteria, your body is not able to produce as much nitric oxide as it normally should, which can eventually put you at risk for hypertension and even Alzheimer’s disease.

So, you want fresher breath, but now you are afraid to use store-bought mouthwash? There are some natural options out there that are much safer for your mouth. Instead of deleting mouthwash from your daily routine, try a different option:

• Oral Essentials is a mouth rinse made with Dead Sea salt, which is rich in minerals. This rinse was actually made by dentists to help aid in remineralization and reduce stress levels.

• Auromere is a mouthwash that was created using ancient medical practices. It is made with neem, which is known as the “Indian toothbrush tree.”

• Make your own! Homemade mouth rinses are a great alternative and you get to control what goes into them. Ask your dentist for their professional opinion before trying anything.

Mouthwash is not the only thing that our mothers falsely promoted; there are other habits that we have been conditioned to believe are healthy that can actually have negative effects on our overall health. 

• Brushing after you eat. Growing up, our parents always told us to brush our teeth after breakfast or dinner. Now that we have matured more, our morning routine might naturally consist of grabbing our toothbrush immediately after breakfast. While developing a regular brushing routine is great, running to brush too quickly can actually cause more trouble. Some foods, like oranges, can weaken the enamel on your teeth, so when you brush right away, your teeth are taking a harder hit. Brushing too forcefully at times like this can even remove that protective enamel! In the future, it is good to wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth.

• Chewing on ice. When you were young, your parents probably let you have a snow cone, or if you have ever had surgery, they probably gave you ice chips to munch on, but those crunchy, cold cubes are not good snacks! Even though ice is free of calories and sugar and can help cool you down, the stiffness of the ice can cause damage to your teeth when it is chewed. This happens by causing cracks and fractures in the enamel on your teeth. Also, if you have fillings, crowns or any other restorations, it can crack those, too.

• Exercising without dental protection. When you go to the gym, what is the first thing you grab to take with you? It likely is not a mouth guard or retainer, but it should be, especially if you are participating in a high-impact sport, such as hockey, martial arts or football. When there is a risk of physical contact, you should always wear mouth protection, no matter how dorky it might look. Not wearing is mouth guard often results in teeth chipping or being knocked completely out! Not only is that unappealing, but that kind of serious damage can take a lot of work and money to repair correctly.

Author: Morgan Evans

South Charlotte Dentistry Products

South Charlotte Dentistry Products

Sonicare Toothbrush
Inspired by the technology in dental offices, Sonicare toothbrushes are designed to provide a dynamic cleaning experience. The Sonicare toothbrush creates a high-velocity movement which reduces plaque along the gumline while also being gentle on teeth and gums. We also carry replacement brush heads for Sonicare electric toothbrushes. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends you change your toothbrush head every 3 months or after you are sick.

Waterpik
A Waterpik water flosser is an alternative to traditional flossing. This system creates a stream of water to flow from the special water flosser tip. This stream of water targets plaque, leftover food, and bacteria effectively. If you struggle with traditional flossing techniques, a Waterpik is easy to use. It even makes flossing with braces easy. Add a Waterpik water flosser to your daily dental hygiene routine!

Crest Whitening Strips
Have you ever wished for a whiter smile? South Charlotte Dentistry offers patients quality teeth whitening treatments. Not sure if you want to sit through a Whitening treatment? You can also get Crest Whitening Strips for take-home use. These strips are great to help you decide on a more permanent teeth-whitening treatment.


Opalescence Whitening Products
In addition to teeth whitening treatments, South Charlotte Dentistry also provides a take-home teeth whitening option. Opalescence is only available through a licensed dental professional. These take-home whitening trays and gel are custom made for your teeth and can provide a less expensive alternative to a teeth whitening treatment.

Prevident Toothpaste
Prevident toothpaste is prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste. This toothpaste cleans your teeth and gums while also providing a dose of fluoride. This is especially important in younger patients, who need a stronger fluoride defense than adults. South Charlotte Dentistry can provide Prevident toothpaste to better protect your smile.

Obagi Skincare Products
Our priority at South Charlotte Dentistry is helping you achieve the smile you want. In addition to that, we also provide a variety of Obagi skincare products. Obagi products are designed to heal your skin and prevent lasting damage from the sun and/or acne. For more information on the Obagi products we offer, ask your dentist next time you visit us!

The Future of Teeth Whitening: Dental Whitening Lamps

When it comes to brightening that smile, using LED lighting for whitening teeth seems to be the wave of the future.

With its popularity quickly growing, due to spectacular results, dentists and patients are beginning to take a closer look at this advanced method of removing coffee, nicotine, and wine stains from the teeth. But is using LED lighting—or, blue lighting, as it is often called—for whitening teeth a safe practice? Though the results of this particular whitening method are positive, patients are still citing some enamel loss and increased sensitivity. Luckily, doctors have just recently discovered an even newer method, still using LED lighting, to whiten teeth but without the negative effects.

For a lot of people looking to whiten their teeth, they find the strips and gels and paints too damaging and painful. You don’t need to have sensitive teeth to feel the sharp pain of some of the modern whitening plans. The increased sensitivity we have seen rise right along with the sales and popularity of take-home whitening products is due to a lethal procedure: hydrogen peroxide robs your teeth of electrons and enamel begins to break down. The result is that hateful sting that comes at first contact of cool air or liquid.

LED Lighting

Here’s how it works: A gel is applied to the teeth then LED lights are used to trigger photocatalysts in the teeth, which then brighten and whiten. The gel is used to speed up the process and make the LED light more effective.

Though the chemicals in the gel used in conjunction with the LED lighting may not be quite as powerful as what’s used in other strips or gels, this process can still be harsh on the teeth—especially sensitive teeth. This has caused a bit of backlash, but this method is still seen as a step in the right direction, as it is not as intense as other take-home whitening products. But, new developments have been made, and the results are quite impressive.

A New Way of Whitening

According to the American Chemical Society, “researchers have now developed a new, less destructive method” of whitening. A gel is still applied to the teeth, and LED lights are used, but the effect is much more impressive.

Dr. Xiaolei Wang and colleagues have found an alternative compound to use in conjunction with LED lights to effectively brighten teeth, but without the negative side effects. Dr. Wang and his team wanted to eliminate the use of the hydrogen-peroxide base due to its damaging agents, so they took titanium dioxide nanoparticles and modified them so they could be triggered by blue lighting. The result? The team found that there was no significant enamel erosion and the teeth tested were significantly whiter.

Before You Whiten

Though it is tempting to buy the most popular take-home whitening products on the market—I mean, they must work if people are buying them, right?—be careful. Just because your friend has found a product that works without causing sensitivity and enamel loss, it doesn’t mean the results will be the same for you.

Your first step is to come in and meet with Dr. Wells and his team. They can successfully assess your teeth and gums to forecast which method(s) might be best for you. But, if you absolutely must start the whitening process immediately, follow these tips until you can come see us at South Charlotte Dentistry:

1.      Keep away from trays and gels. The problem with this method is that it can take weeks for results to show. And, most people who use the tray and gels report having teeth sensitivity afterwards. 

2.      Use caution with whitening strips as well. Though results can show in about a week, over time, this can cause irritation. Also, if you use the strips too often, your teeth can become sensitive.

3.      When you have the time to wait, use paint-ons. The paint-on method solves the problem of the whitening agent interacting with interior soft tissues, such as the gums and inner cheek. You simply brush the whitening gel on each tooth and let it sit for a short period of time. The only down side to this method is it can take months before results can be seen, and you have to be diligent in getting the gel on each tooth daily.

4.      Whitening devices are your best option. Go ahead and do a little research and find an LED lighting kit to order—you can get them off Amazon.


Andrae Bergeron
CCP Web Design
South Charlotte Denistry