Frequently Asked Questions
What is ViziLitesPlus?
One American dies every hour from oral cancer. The American Cancer Society estimates a 5.5% increase in new cases of oral cancer and a 1.5% increase in deaths associated with oral cancer. ViziLite Plus is a simple and painless technology that assists dental professionals in the early detection of oral abnormalities including premalignant lesions and oral cancer. When oral cancer is found early, treatment is 90% successful. Because of all the vascularity and lymph nodes in the oral area, oral cancer can metastasize quickly. Early detection can save lives. Those at highest risk for oral cancer are individuals age 40 and older with tobacco and or alcohol use and those with a family history of oral cancer. More than 20% of oral cancer cases have been attributed to the sexually transmitted infection of the human papilloma virus (HPV). 25% of oral cancers occur in people who don’t smoke and have no other lifestyle risk factors. We are excited about offering this oral cancer screening to our patients.
What is Holistic Dentistry?
Holistic Dentistry is an approach to dentistry that promotes health and wellness instead of treatment of disease. This approach encompasses both modern science and knowledge drawn from the world’s greatest traditions in natural healing sometimes called “Biological” or “Biocompatible” dentistry. We use many different products that are in harmony with your teeth and gums. We help support your bodies natural balance so bacterial, viral and yeast infections of your soft tissue, tongue and teeth can be minimized. This is done by increasing awareness of how stress, nutrition, and lifestyle can affect your well being. Imbalances in these areas may lead to loss of tooth structure, bone, and gum recession, bleeding, headaches, and indigestion.
Is there a link between gum disease and other health problems?
Recent research suggests there may be a link between gum disease and other health problems. Studies by the American Heart Association show evidence that bacteria in the mouth, which is associated with gum disease, may be linked to heart disease, artery blockages, and stroke. Studies have shown the incidence of heart disease is about twice as high in people with periodontal (gum) disease. Additional research suggests that the bacteria that cause gum disease can be a contributing factor in weakening the immune system. This can make a person more susceptible to bacterial pneumonia, slow wound healing, and diminish a person’s response to hepatitis B and flu vaccines.
Studies also indicate that pregnant women who have gum disease may be at increased risk for delivering prematurely, as well as having an increased risk of low birth weight babies. People with diabetes often have gum disease and a higher incidence of infection so it is important to visit their dentist regularly. If periodontal disease is treated in diabetics, their sugar control can improve.
We use truly natural hygiene products.
We use natural products free of alcohol, chemical preservatives, dyes, or sweeteners, and that don’t stain teeth. They help aid in controlling gum disease, which is rampant in this country. They are also effective in providing long lasting relief of bad breath. The Dental Herb Company has products that deal with both the infection and the healing process. Working together effectively the time-tested botanical remedies contain antimicrobials, connective tissue rebuilders, and tissue conditioners, which establish an environment in which inflamed, swollen, or bleeding gums will often respond to in just a few weeks. Ingredients include Green tea, Echinacea, Gotu Kola, peppermint, red thyme, cinnamon bark, eucalyptus, lavender and more.
The Dental Amalgam Controversy
The dental amalgam controversy is a debate over the use of mercury containing amalgam as a dental filling. Based on the Dental Material Fact Sheet of the California Dental Association, amalgam contains 34-54% mercury. Studies have proven that mercury vapor almost constantly leaks from amalgam fillings (silver colored) intensifying after eating, drinking hot liquid, chewing gum, teeth grinding and even tooth brushing. A review published in 2005 by the Freiburg University Institute for Environmental Medicine found that “ mercury from dental amalgam may lead to kidney toxicity, neurobehavioral changes, autoimmune diseases, oxidative stress, autism, skin and mucosa alterations and possibly Alzheimer’s disease or multiple sclerosis. The debate continues. A good source to read is Dr. Hal A. Higgins; It’s All In Your Head, The link Between Mercury Amalgams and Illness.
We do not use mercury in our restorations. High-speed suction and rubber dam also helps in the removal of existing amalgam restorations if they need to be replaced.
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