Tooth decay and sugary soft drinks are in the news again. On June 9, 2015 the San Francisco Board of Supervisors passed an ordinance that will require warning labels on advertisements for soda and other drinks. The labels will warn about the contribution these beverages have to obesity, diabetes and tooth decay. Here is the link to the CNN news article and more information: http//money.cnn.com/2015/6/10/news/san-francisco-soda-warning/index.html?iid=SF LN

As a side note, I always recommend to patients to minimize the consumption of sugary and/or acidic beverages. Excessive consumption of beverages with sugary and/or acidic contents, can contribute as well as hasten the development of tooth decay and enamel erosion. It is always wise to swish with plenty of water after consuming any sugary or acidic beverage (this goes for food products as well). Thorough swishing with water will help dilute the sugar or acid remaining on the teeth and thus help minimize the potential damaging effects. Put this tip into practice, particularly in situation when you are on the move and a toothbrush is not handy.

Thanks for reading,

Richard K Dimsdale, DDS  

In a recent article from Time magazine (5/21/15), American Dental Association spokesperson, Dr. Matt Messina, was cited extensively. Here is a brief synopsis of some common symptoms and potential causes of tooth sensitivity, as well as a few additional comments and observations I have made:

In general, cold sensitivity that lasts only briefly may not indicate a problem, however sensitivity that lingers or can be localized to a particular tooth or area of the mouth can be caused by a cracked tooth, a filling that is deteriorating or a cavity. Sensitivity in the latter case, that is more than an annoyance, should be checked by a dentist. Early diagnosis and treatment can many times help avoid more involved treatment down the road.

If the sensitivity is of a different nature, such as sensitivity to hot temperatures and biting pressure, this could indicate an infection in the tooth. Another scenario involves receding gums, where the root surfaces of the teeth become exposed to varying degrees. Gum recession can be caused by brushing too hard or as a result of gum disease (inadequate home care). Gum recession can result in temperature sensitivity (particularly to cold), because the root surface of a tooth has no protective layer of enamel. Having no enamel layer (insulating layer), leaves the more porous root surface of a tooth exposed to air, cold and temperature extremes.

Bottom line is, please check with your dentist particularly if sensitivity issues are more than a minor annoyance. Catching things early on is always a good plan.

Have a great summer,

Dr. Richard K Dimsdale

Message View

When brushing your teeth, spend the first few minutes using a dry toothbrush (without toothpaste). You will immediately notice a better sense of how well you are cleaning in and around the teeth and gum areas, because the feedback you are getting is not masked by the foam and slipperiness of the toothpaste. After doing a thorough initial brushing with the dry toothbrush, proceed to brush a second time with toothpaste applied to the brush as usual. For fresher breath, don’t forget to use a tongue scraper as well.

By using this method, you will likely find your brushing technique will yield better results and your teeth and gums will be cleaner and healthier. This is a great habit to get into, so resolve to start today! As always, don’t forget to floss at least once a day. The best time to floss is before going to bed at night. If you make this part of your routine, you will be less likely to forget.

Regards,

Richard K Dimsdale, DDS