Bad Breath: More Than Just Embarrassing!

We've all experienced someone with bad breath and hopefully it's not our own!  But hey!  It happens. If you've been told you've got chronic bad breath, have no fear there are ways to overcome that doesn't involve a gas mask!

What causes bad breath?  We're not talking your typical you ate a heavy garlic cream sauce on your pasta!  This is chronic bad breath and there can be multiple culprits.

• Tobacco Use (may be time to quit)
• Dry Mouth (there isn't enough saliva to wash away excess food particles and bacteria)
• Infections (whether oral or elsewhere in your body)
• Conditions (Diabetes, repiratory issues, sinustis or bronchitis, liver or kidney problems)
• Dental cavities or gum disease

The best ways to improve your breath:

• Quit smoking
• Routine professional cleanings
• Excellent home care (brush twice a day, floss once a day, mouth wash)
• Xylitol products (excellent for people with diabetes but beneficial to every patient as it has bacteria fighting properties - gums, mints, oral spray, mouth rinse and toothpaste)

Research supports a link between lack of flossing and bad breath.  In a study of more than 1,000 adults conducted in Kuwait, never using dental floss was significantly associated with reports of bad breath, as was infrequent tooth brushing, being or having been a smoker.

It will never cost less or hurt less than it does today!

Do I Have To Go To The Dentist?

On a daily basis patients tell us, "I hate going to the dentist" or "I hate the dentist" or "I'd rather be anywhere but here".  We get it and try not to take it personal.  Here's the deal, you don't have to come but you need to know the risks of not coming.

We have patients who haven't been seen by a dentist in years.  Some of the most common reasons:

1) fear & anxiety

2) bad experience in the past

3) lack of insurance

4) lack of money

5) busy with life

The list goes on and on.  A fortunate few may have little to no cavities and little plaque buildup (how does that happen?!).  The majority will  have more pressing issues, from severe cavities to broken teeth, from bleeding gums to serious periodontal disease and possibly even oral cancer.

I've sat with many a patient in my office discussing their needed treatment and for some it can be very extensive.    The patient becomes upset at the amount of work that needs to be done and the costs associated with that work.  The root of the problem, they have neglected their teeth for 5+ years and are now unhappy that's it going to cost them heavily in time and money.  Had they just invested in their preventive care, the costs could be significantly less.  

This may not make me very popular but patients that give the reasoning that they didn't have insurance and that is what kept them from the dentist, isn't really a valid reason.  The "tooth" of the matter is: most times, we afford what we feel is important to us.  If the car breaks down we get it fixed or buy a new one.  The TV goes out, we get a new one, etc.  Most people do not make dental care a priority.  I don't mean that disrespectfully it is just a matter of fact.

For whatever you reason you put off going to the dentist you must understand the risks of not going. We just saw a new patient today.  It had been years since she's been to the dentist.  She came in for a broken tooth and thankfully she did.    To the left is the intraoral photo taken at her visit.  The patient informed the assistant she had a "skin tag".  We referred her immediately to an oral surgeon for a biopsy.  There is a high probability this is a cancerous growth.  

In the picture you can also see the calculus and plaque build up around the lower anterior teeth.  You can see the gums are swollen and are a darker pink.  Evidence of periodontal disease.  It really does break our hearts to deliver this type of new to patients but we must be honest about the findings and do our best to get them on the road to a healthy mouth.  It's never to late to start investing in your teeth and gums.  Make it a priority today.

It will never cost less or hurt less than it does today!

Closing The Gap: Options for Missing Teeth

Missing teeth, especially in the "smile zone", can really effect how we feel about our smile and our overall self confidence.  Your smile is an important part of who you are.  But our confidence isn't the only reason you may need to replace missing teeth.  There are anatomical reasons as well, namely receding gums and movement of adjacent teeth.

Once a tooth is lost, the bone around the empty socket has a tendency to collapse into the space.  The gums surrounding the space in turn will begin to recede changing the aesthetic appearance of adjacent teeth and possibly affecting the aesthetics of a bridge or future implant.  Bone Grafting in the area of tooth if you do not plan fill the gap immediately will keep the bone from collapsing into the hole.

What are the options for closing the gap?

Implant:  

This is the most natural route.  Placing the implant immediately after the tooth is removed allows the implant to be a permanent replacement, preventing bone loss.  If the tooth is already missing and an immediate implant is not an option you will need to speak to your dentist or oral surgeon regarding bone density for placement of an implant.

Cost wise this will most likely be more costly than other options.  Regular professional cleanings are critical in the life of this restoration.

Bridge:  

 A bridge can be the next best options next to an implant.  Bridges can include 3+ teeth, depending on how many teeth are missing.  The two adjacent teeth are considered anchor teeth for the missing tooth.  A pontic (fake tooth) fills in the gap between the two anchors.  It is a fixed prosthetic (not removable).  Regular professional cleanings are critical in the life of this restoration.

Partial (removable prosthetic):

There are two options when it comes to partials.  Your dentist will cover which option is best for you. 

One option is a flexible partial (does not contain any metal).  This can be the most comfortable of the two due to its flexibility.  They are stain and odor resistant and virtually unbreakable.  It is the least expensive option.

The second option is a metal partial.  The metal utilizes an existing tooth as an anchor.  This option is extremely stable and retentive.

There is a third option known as a "flipper" which is a temporary prosthetic that allows the gums and extraction site to heal prior to replacing a missing tooth.

It will never cost less or hurt less than it does today! 

Dentures: Are They Right for You?

Not everyone needs a full set of dentures.  It is a viable option and can be the least costly option when compared to the extensive cost of repairing existing teeth.  It is a decision that should not be taken lightly as it really does change everything.

We have patients that come into our office who have extensive treatment needs and feel their only option is dentures.  Finances are a big part of the decisions we make when it comes to dentistry.  We understand and do our best to help patients navigate these waters.

Keeping our natural teeth as long as possible is always the best option, though there are conditions that may invalidate that option.

1. Can teeth be saved?  There are times when teeth are just too far gone and extraction is the only option.
2. Professional cleanings.  If a patient is not getting regular professional cleanings as it is, restorations may not be ideal.  Restorations need to be professionally cleaned twice a year to protect their integrity and extend their life.  It is a small investment to protect a large investment.
3. Home care:  If a patient currently does not have good home care habits, again, restorations can become compromised.  Good home care is critical to the life of any restoration.
4. Commitment:  Is the patient committed to professional cleanings and excellent home care?  If not, dentures may be the most ideal option.  The patient must also be committed to the possible lengthy process of restoring their teeth.  As this may be the most expensive option, how long will it take to get through the process.

How does the process work?

• Once the denturist has made your immediate (temporary) dentures, you will make an appointment with us for extractions.  You will bring the denture into the extraction visit and we will deliver it the same day.
• You'll want to schedule your extractions so that you'll be able to have them adjusted within 24 hours and again within 48 hours as you will develop sore spots.
• As the gum tissue heals and the bone reduces, your dentures will become loose.  You will need to schedule relines with our office.  You will drop off the dentures in the morning and receive them back in the afternoon.
• It is possible you may require additional services, such as, tissue conditioning - an effort to restore the health of the tissues  of the denture foundation area before final denture impressions are made.
• Within a year you will need a permanent (final) set of dentures.

What you need to know about life with dentures:

Adjustment period:  They can be awkward to get used to.  You may need to learn how to talk again in a sense.  Learning to eat certain foods can be an adjustment, especially until healing is complete.You will need to get your dentures relined at least twice within the first year as gums will shrink while healing.  This causes your denture to be loose fitting.

It will never cost less or hurt less than it does today.

Oral Cancer

According to The Oral Cancer Foundation, Close to 45,750 Americans will be diagnosed with oral or pharyngeal cancer this year.  It will cause over 8,650 deaths, killing roughly 1 person per hour, 24 hours per day.

Oral cancer is particularly dangerous because in its early stages it may not be noticed by the patient, as it can frequently prosper without producing pain or symptoms they might readily recognize, and because it has a high risk of producing second, primary tumors.  This means that patients who survive a first encounter with the disease, have up to a 20 times higher risk of developing a second cancer.1

Risk Factors:

• Tobacco use: Smokeless (chewing/spit), Cigarettes
• Age 40+
• Alcohol (those who smoke and drink have a 15% greater risk of developing an oral cancer)
• Persistent Viral Infections (ex. HPV - 200 strains)

Signs and Symptoms:

• Tissue changes
• White or red patch of the soft tissue
• Ulcers (look like a common canker but persist longer than 7-10 days)
• Lump or mass inside the head or neck
• Pain or difficulty swallowing, speaking, chewing
• Wart like masses
• Hoarseness
• Numbness
• Unilateral persistent ear pain

If you have any of these risk factors or signs and symptoms, be seen immediately.  Regular check ups and cleaning by the dentist can often identify suspicious lesions visible in the oral cavity.  Your regular medical doctor should be seen  as well if you have no visible symptoms.

It will never cost less or hurt less than it does today!

1. The Oral Cancer Foundation 

Dental Phobia: Climbing That Mountain

For some people, they'd rather hang off a sheer cliff than come to the dentist.  Some have had a bad dental experience, yet some just flat out have a fear.  Whatever the cause of your dental anxiety, know that you are not alone.

Statistics estimate 10% of the population suffers from a dental phobia, but we believe the percentage to be much higher.  We get calls daily: "I'm a chicken", "I hate dentists", "I had a bad experience" or "I've put off coming because I'm afraid".  We've had folks call in tears, just making the phone call to schedule!

It's real!  We believe you!  Outside of a bad experience, most people's dental anxiety comes from lack of control.  First, your having to trust what the dentist is telling you is the issue and because you didn't go to dental school you don't know if he/she is telling you the truth.  Some dentists don't take the time to explain what options you have, they just tell you "this is what I have to do".  Of course, there may only be one solution to the problem at hand, but walking a patient through a discussion helps patients overcome so much of their fear.

Secondly, you're lying prone, the dentist is hovering over you and his/her hands are filling up your mouth with a number of dental tools to boot!  You can't breath, talk and feel ultimately out of control. There is hope!

A good dentist gets to know his/her patients.  They discuss together what the current issues are, what options are available and what treatments are best for the patient.  There are times when a dentist just has to be blunt honest with a patient regarding the status of their oral health, but can be sensitive doing so.  Covering and educating the patient on what to expect during upcoming procedures can greatly reduce anxiety.  During treatment, checking with the patient to ensure they are doing ok and aren't feeling any pain is another way to relieve stress.

At Gilmore Dental, our entire philosophy revolves around the patient experience.  From the moment you get us on the phone, to your first visit and through your treatment needs, we work hard to ensure that you will leave having an entirely new perspective about your trips to the dentist.

It will never cost less or hurt less than it does today!

Testimonials:  

My best dental experience so far! Went in with issues with my teeth from a previous dentist and Dr. Gilmore and his staff were so friendly and welcoming and most of all honest. My experience getting my crown replaced was painless and a great dental experience. I highly recommend Gilmore Dental :)  Ashlie C.

A year a ago when I came to Dr. Gilmore, I had multiple problems. The doctor and his staff are simply the best! My healing is all done, and I am now able to order things off the menu that I haven't been able to eat for a long time. My smile is very pretty again. I was so lucky to have chosen Dr. Gilmore. My son is also very pleased with you and your whole staff. Thanks so much.  Joe B.

Dr. Gilmore helped me out with some great reconstructive work recently. I am so grateful for him and the time he spent on me- I really can't tell you enough great things about him. He was the perfect mix of acting very professionally while having a great sense of humor. Rosie W.

I have finally found a dentist I love. When you go to Dr Gilmore you don't feel like you are going to the dentist, they make you feel so welcome from the very beginning. I was terrified of the dentist but since I have been going here I have had more work done in the last year than I have my whole life. He even has a sense of humor, I haven't found a dentist yet with a good bed side manner. Dr Gilmore and his staff has it all. I couldn't imagine going anywhere else. Wendy C.

Check Engine Light: Dealing with Dental Emergencies

Dental emergencies can happen anytime to anyone.  Typically they happen when the dentist office is closed which is highly inconvenient to the patient.  Being prepared for dental emergencies and what to do in certain situations can mean the difference in saving or losing a tooth.

First let's discuss what is constituted as a "TRUE" dental emergency.

• Trauma sustained to a tooth from an accident
• Excessive swelling of the face
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Fever
• Bleeding

We often get calls on Friday afternoons (or occasionally on weekends) from patients who have had an ongoing tooth ache or broken tooth for weeks (or even months) who now are now in state of extreme pain and do not want to go through the weekend in pain. Procrastination is not your friend.  Ignoring prolonged tooth pain (hoping it will go away) or a broken tooth is like ignoring the engine warning light on your car. It ultimately results in complete failure and the costs to repair rise exponentially.   With routine maintenance, your car will function and be reliable.  Run it out of oil and you'll have serious problems.

The same principles apply to your teeth.  Routine maintenance with your dentist alerts you to possible problems and affords you the ability to get issues taken care of before they become an "emergency", saving you pain and money. With that being said, we are aware that problems arise out of the blue, or trauma to a tooth results as an accident.

What should you do if you experience a true dental emergency?  

• Call your dentist at the first sign of an issue:  tooth pain, loss of filling, broken tooth
• Swelling: go to the emergency room if you are experiencing problems breathing or swallowing.  See your dentist right away.
• Tooth knocked out: keep moist at all times.  If you can put the tooth back in the socket without touching the root, that's ideal.  If not place the tooth between your cheek and gums or in milk and get to the dentist right away.
• Cracked tooth: rinse with warm salt water, cold compress may help with swelling.  See the dentist right away.
• Inflamed gums:  try flossing to remove food particles that may be lodged between teeth. Rinse with warm water.  If it persists see your dentist.
• Tooth ache: DO NOT place an aspirin on aching tooth or gum as it may burn the gum tissue.  Contact your dentist.
• Broken Jaw:  After hours go directly to the emergency room at the hospital.  Many times they have oral surgeons on call.  Otherwise see your dentist ASAP and he/she will give you a referral to an oral surgeon.

It will never cost less or hurt less than it does today!