Tools and Techniques for a Healthy Smile

Robert D. Follweiler  D.D.S.,P.A. Periodontology and Laser Technology

Creating and Maintaining Foundations of Oral Health

901 East Ocean Boulevard  Stuart Florida 34994  772-283-1400-

Email PerioF1@BellSouth.net

Please visit our web site www.Follweilerperio.com

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There are unbelievable amounts of oral health care products on the market today. The array is overwhelming and it can be quite confusing. To prevent decay and gum disease the goal is to find a product that  will be used  faithfully to remove food particles and plaque from between teeth and gum tissue.

Find some products on this list to help get the job done:

1.       Electric tooth brush –no longer considered a luxury. Beyond a shadow of a doubt these powered brushes have been found to be much more effective in motivating reluctant brushers, removing plaque and protecting delicate gum tissue. Pay attention to the availability of brush heads and warranty information before choosing.

2.       Water irrigator – a must for patients with crown and bridge work and or tight spaces between teeth. Also helpful for patients with motor problems and difficulty holding a tooth brush. Great product used to help reduce inflammation from gingivitis.

3.       Rubber tips, end tuft brushes and interproximal brushes for cleaning between teeth, cleaning hard to reach places and massaging gum tissue.

4.       Dental floss – the main purpose of flossing is to break up bacterial colonies that form in the mouth around teeth and gums. This bacteria creates infection and inflammation that leads to gum disease and tooth loss. There are a variety of flosses to choose from including wax coated, for tight spaces, fluoride coated, to prevent decay between teeth and super floss that is used to clean under and around bridge work.

5.        Floss holders – a small fork like device for holding floss for those who struggle with flossing.

6.       Wooden toothpick shaped cleaner – slender wooden pics that clean between teeth as they stimulate circulation around the tooth and gum tissue.

7.       Mouth Rinses – antibacterial for preventing or reducing gum infection, fluoride rinses for preventing decay and decreasing sensitivity and rinses for dry mouth syndrome.

8.       Toothpaste – each one has a specific claim: preventing decay, fighting tarter, controlling sensitivity, whitening and tooth pastes that strengthen or remineralize the tooth surface.

Bottom line: Just do it! Brush twice a day for at least two minutes, floss and use whatever product necesssary to remove plaque and keep your smile for a lifetime!! Call the office for more information.

Sinus Infections & Gum Disease

 

Written by ehow contributor Shared by Dr. Follweiler

Sinus Infections & Gum Disease

Gum disease and sinus infections may seem like completely different ailments, and at times they are. But what most people don't realize is that there may often be a connection between the two. Knowing what that connection is, and how gum disease may cause a sinus infection, may help you avoid possible problems.

Oral Hygiene

Having poor oral hygiene may cause bacteria to grow and begin the process of gum disease. Some of the symptoms of gum disease are bleeding gums, receding gums and extra sensitive gums.

Maxiallary Sinus

The oral cavity and upper teeth connect to the maxillary sinuses. If your upper teeth roots become diseased or infected, the bacteria from the infection may travel up the maxillary sinuses and cause a sinus infection.

Bacteria

Bacteria that build up due to a gum problem such as gum disease or a dental abscess, may actually cause a sinus infection by causing the abscess to go up into the sinus cavity.

Pressure

It is a common complaint of people who have a sinus infection, to feel pain and pressure in their teeth. Usually it is the back teeth on top that will ache with a sinus infection, and is often called a sinus toothache.

Sinus Toothache Symptoms

Some of the symptoms you might experience if you have a sinus toothache, or a sinus infection caused by or affecting the teeth and gums, are swelling in the gums, tender cheekbones, swollen face, a headache, extreme tiredness and possibly some draining from your sinus.

 

For more information call us!  772-283-1400

 

Dental Fear and Anxiety

 Robert D. Follweiler  D.D.S.,P.A. Periodontology and Laser Technology

 Creating and Maintaining  Foundations of Oral Health

 901 East Ocean Boulevard  Stuart Florida 34994  772-283-1400-     Email   PerioF1@BellSouth.net                        

 Please visit our web site www.Follweilerperio.com

_____________________________________________________________________

                                                          

It is estimated that up to 40 million Americans don't go to the dentist because of fear and anxiety.  Many patients suffer because of old dental stories that have been shared by family and friends. Most of these tales of woe are from the past and have no bearing on dentistry as it is practiced today. Here are some confidence building bits of information that might make it easier to take care of dental concerns.

Dental tools and instruments have come a long way over the past few decades. Dental equipment is smaller than in the past and more efficient. Needles that inject numbing agents, for example, are super-thin compared with fatter versions of yesteryear. There are also a host of medications and new products that help reduce pain. Topical anesthetic gels and dental patches used to numb gums keep patients comfortable during injections and deep cleanings. Tooth repair and maintenance is now done in less time, with little or no discomfort and the results are longer lasting. Many procedures that once were only surgical, like periodontal treatment have greatly improved and become non-surgical events.

To further bolster your courage for dental treatment find a dentist that is easy to talk to. Express your concerns on the VERY FIRST VISIT. Hiding this information makes a mutually satisfying outcome impossible. Ask questions about exactly what will be done and how long it should take. Establish a  “STOP” signal so that you can take a time-out from the procedure when you need to.

 

Next schedule your appointment early in the day so that you don’t spend the entire day worrying. Bring headphones to distract you and have a friend drive with you if that makes you feel more comfortable. Practice deep breathing and imagery techniques to make  the  appointment less stressful and inquire about medications that will help calm you before and during your appointment if necessary.

And finally remember that treatment for gum disease does not have to involve surgery because of the amazing PerioLase laser that treats the problem with no cutting, no stitches and no fear. Stay in control of your dental visits and diminish your dental anxiety.

 

Your Tongue May be Telling Tales About Your Health

      Robert D. Follweiler  D.D.S.,P.A. Periodontology and Laser Technology

      Creating and Maintaining  Foundations of Oral Health

        901 East Ocean Boulevard  Stuart Florida 34994  772-283-1400-       Email PerioF1@BellSouth.net 

         Please visit our web site www.Follweilerperio.com

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Take a look in the mirror and notice your tongue. Most of us don’t give our tongue a second thought unless we bite the side of it or burn it with hot food or drink. The tongue is an undulating muscle covered with 10,000 taste buds that recognize sweet, salty and bitter sensations. Taste buds are collections of nerve like cells that connect to nerves running into the brain. The tongue is vital for chewing and swallowing food as well as speech.

A healthy tongue is pinkish and sits comfortably in your mouth. Sometimes however the tongue changes in appearance or size possibly indicating a mild or more serious health concern.

Changes in the color of the tongue may be due to irritation, or a condition called glossitis or geographic tongue. The tongue may also turn dark brown or black and these conditions usually can be corrected with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications.

Pain in the tongue may occur with glossitis and geographic tongue. Tongue pain may also occur with diabetic neuropathy, mouth ulcers and oral cancer. Anemia, neuralgia, oral herpes and dentures that are ill fitting sometimes cause tongue discomfort.

Tongue swelling may be due to several things and the most common is an allergic reaction to a food or medication. Tongue swelling also occurs with pituitary gland problems, cancer of the tongue, Down Syndrome, leukemia, hypothyroidism, anemia, strep infections and other serious health conditions.

After menopause, some women have a sudden feeling that their tongue has been burned. This is called burning tongue syndrome or idiopathic glossopyrosis. There is no specific treatment for burning tongue syndrome, but capsaicin (the ingredient that makes peppers spicy) can offer relief to some patients

If noticeable changes occur with your tongue stop using all mouth washes, whitening toothpastes and bleaching products. If the problem persists see your dental professional ASAP.

 

Dental Problems From Eating Disorders

   Robert D. Follweiler D.D.S., P.A.

  Periodontology and Laser Technology

  901 East Ocean Boulevard

  Stuart,  Florida    34994  772-283-1400

  Please visit our Web Site @ Follweilerperio.com

 

 

 

The summer is coming soon. This brings an abundance of activities as well as added pressure for many students. For some young people going back to the beach represents renewed attention to clothes and body image. Adolescents as well as adults may be susceptible to embracing our cultural obsession with weight. Unfortunately the media often sends the message that it is more important to be thin than to have a healthy attitude toward body image and eating.

 

As dental professionals we often are confronted with the first signs of an unhealthy diet or an eating disorder.  An estimated 1-2 million Americans meet the diagnostic criteria for anorexia and bulimia.   An increased number of males are seeking treatment for these disorders as well. When someone develops and eating disorder, the entire body is affected by the lack of vitamins and minerals. This can lead to problems with their bones and soft tissue which includes the teeth and gums.   If the body is nutrient deficient it cannot fight against normal bacteria and the bad bacteria that is responsible for gum problems and tooth decay will flourish. This will result in tooth loss, periodontal disease and other systemic problems.

During regular dental visits the symptoms spotted in the oral cavity may allow early intervention and treatment before the problems become life altering. One of the first symptoms of an eating disorder may be tooth sensitivity and tooth erosion (wearing away). There also may be signs of chipping especially on the biting edges of the teeth. Unhealthy eating and regurgitation may also contribute to decalcification of the teeth and increased dental decay.  Other symptoms of eating disorders include dry mouth, sores in the corners of the mouth and generalized gingival inflammation with sore or bleeding gum tissue.

 

The real number of people afflicted with eating disorders is hard to determine because this group of diseases is characterized by secrecy and denial. If an eating disorder is suspected a trip to the dentist may be the first step to getting the help needed. While treatment is in progress there are ways to minimize the damage to the mouth caused by this dangerous disease. Please call our office for more information.

 

 

 

 

Are You Or Your Loved Ones At Risk For Periodontal Disease?

                                               Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

  

  

 If you think a friend or loved one is at risk for periodontal disease? Here are some signs and symptoms that are typical for periodontal disease.

1. Family history of tooth loss and gum disease.
2. Bad breath, a peculiar taste or metallic taste in your mouth that is constant and not brought on by food or drink.
3. Gums that bleed when you floss or brush.
4. Gums that are sensitive sore or have a burning sensation.
5. Loose teeth, teeth that have become sensitive or spaces widening between your teeth.
6. Gums that appear to be shrinking or teeth that appear to be longer or shorter than they were.
7. Spaces between your teeth that frequently trap food.
8. Change in your bite or the way your bridges or partial dentures fit.
9. Continual dry mouth.

Some factors that directly contribute to periodontal disease: 

1. Use of tobacco products of any kind.
2. Grinding and clenching your teeth.
3. Immune systems disorders, radiation and chemotherapy treatment.
4. Pregnancy, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.
5. Taking any medication that causes your gums to get swollen or enlarged. Blood pressure medications, anti-depressants, and allergy medications are just some of the many medications that contribute to gum problems and periodontal disease.

 

Any of these symptoms alone or together may be an indication of a gum problem.

 

Call our office for your examination today!

 

Acid Indigestion and Dental Health

Robert D. Follweiler D.D.S., P.A.

Periodontology and Laser Technology

901 East Ocean Boulevard

Stuart,  Florida    34994  772-283-1400

Please visit our Web Site @ Follweilerperio.com 

      

 

From time to time most people experience indigestion in one form or another. Heartburn or acid indigestion is usually treated successfully with antacids such as Tums or Rolaids. However there are some people that suffer more severe frequent heartburn and indigestion leading to a condition called GERD or Gastro- esophageal Reflux Disease.

With GERD stomach acids come up into the esophagus irritating the lining. These same stomach acids may come into the mouth as well. Some symptoms of reflux disease are: an acidic taste in the mouth, bad breath, inflamed gum tissue, problems swallowing, a feeling of hoarseness in the voice, a burning tongue, or burning belches after eating. Untreated GERD may lead to more serious problems, even esophageal cancer.

When tooth enamel is exposed to acidic conditions over time the enamel may etch and wear away. This etching makes teeth more sensitive to hot, cold, sweet and sour foods. Exposure to acidic secretions may decalcify the teeth making them more prone to decay. This is especially true in areas of exposed root structures due to gum recession caused by periodontal disease. 

 

 

 Many patients who clean their teeth faithfully are frustrated by the fact that they frequently develop tooth decay. They are mystified that even with their best efforts they still are getting cavities. One explanation may be that acid reflux is making them more susceptible to dental decay. Twenty percent of patients with GERD are unaware they have a problem.

 

 Dental hygienists are often the first member of the dental team to notice that teeth are being decalcified. Frequent dental examinations, diet changes, night guards, small frequent meals and not eating at least two to three hours before bed may help. There are many medications to control GERD and a physician referral may be necessary if GERD is going untreated. Protect you periodontal health and prevent dental decay by understanding GERD.

 

Cavities… Not Just Kid Stuff !!!!!

Robert D. Follweiler D.D.S.

                         Periodontology                                

901 East Ocean Boulevard Stuart, Florida 34994

772-283-1400                772-283-1401  FAX

 Visit us on the web at www.Follweilerperio.com        

                             Cavities…

When children are growing up a certain amount of dental decay is a fairly regular occurrence.  As we become adults and have better oral hygiene cavities should become less of a problem.  Believe it or not there is a period of time when there is a reoccurrence of the “cavity prone years”.  According to the American Dental Association “ Dental decay is the most prevalent decease affecting humanity. Teeth  decay due to a combination of causes that include bad oral hygiene, stagnation of food on or around the teeth, presence of plaque on the tooth structure and the presence of caries causing microorganisms.” A large percent of dental caries in adults start on root surfaces and at the gum line.

Two primary causes of adult dental decay in people who perform basic oral hygiene techniques at home are the presence of gum recession and changes in a person’s saliva. Gum recession may occur because of periodontal disease, improper brushing or bruxism (excessive tooth grinding and clenching).

When gum tissues recede plaque collects along the root surfaces. These root surfaces are made of dentin, a material much softer than enamel. This erosion of the root surface is where the decay occurs. In any location  of the mouth where gum recession has occurred a tooth’s root will be exposed. It is difficult to keep these areas clean and plaque free without special instructions  and equipment  from your periodontist  or dentist.

Changes in saliva may also contribute to dental decay in adults. Saliva contains a buffering agent that can neutralize the acid created by the bacteria that  cause tooth demineralization (tooth decay). Saliva also contains antibacterial agents that can inhibit the proliferation of oral bacteria.

Any alterations in the quantity and quality of one’s saliva will reduce the benefits saliva provides. Reduction in saliva or dry mouth syndrome (xerostomia) may be caused by the aging process, medications or illness. To prevent cavities in the presence of reduced saliva one should: chew sugarless gum, take extra care with oral hygiene before bed when saliva flow is the lowest, drink plenty of fluids on a frequent basis and check with your physician regarding the possible side effects of your medications.

Tooth decay  affects young and old alike. To keep your teeth cavity free see your dental professional on a regular basis and be prepared to take extra measures as you mature.

 Cavities are not just kids stuff.

For more information please call our office or visit our web site.