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

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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 

     Adolescents in America are participating in sports at unprecedented levels today.  That’s a wonderful thing.  It is estimated that 20-25 million kids are now active in athletics.  Unfortunately, millions of teeth are being damaged each year during these sporting events.  Not only are dentists seeing teeth broken and lost during contact sports, we are also seeing many dental injuries involving non contact sports such as gymnastics and skating.

     It is estimated that 10-20% of all dental injuries are dental/facial.  Athletes are 60 times more likely to sustain injuries when not wearing a mouth guard. Teeth can be fractured, knocked out,  or simply moved within the socket causing permanent damage when guards are not worn.  The damage can be expensive to repair.  A lifetime cost of $10,000 – $15,000 for a single lost tooth is a common estimate.  A tooth lost at a young age will need follow up work many times during the injury victim’s life.

     Dental injuries while playing sports can be prevented!  The American Dental Association estimates 200,000 high school and collegiate football injuries are prevented each year by the use of mouth guards.  Football players have the highest percentage of participates wearing mouth guards. Hopefully other sports will increase the use of mouth guard protection as well.  If that were to happen we should see a dramatic decrease in sports related dental injuries.

There are three types of mouth guards:

1. Stock Guards:  These guards are the least expensive and basically a one size fits all sort of guard.  This guard must be held in place by biting down on it. So there is a high probability this guard will be dislodged just as sporting contact is made. Avoid this type of guard.

2. Boil and Bite Guards: This is the most common type of guard worn. Of the athletes that wear guards about 90 % wear this type.  These guards are readily available and relatively inexpensive. These guards are only slightly better than stock guards.  Because the guard is formed by boiling and biting to form the guard, the thickness of the material is extremely variable and often too thin in spots to provide proper protection.  Also this type guard does not typically fit securely enough to stay firmly in place as a blow is delivered during contact sports.

3. Custom Fitted Guards:  This is the guard that provides the most protection. After we make impressions at the dental office. The guard is custom made at a dental lab so it has uniform thickness and a secure and proper fit.  Athletes report this guard is the most comfortable and lasts the longest. For fun, team logos and colors can be designed into the guards if desired. Most importantly these guards provide the utmost in protection.

     Once  a tooth is damaged, it is damaged for life.  Make sure your child’s teeth are properly protected during sports. Only custom made guards provide the protection athletes need.

    If you have questions about any of the information presented please feel free to ask any of our team members. All of our team members at Carolina Mountain Dental here to serve as a resource for your dental needs.

Thanks for reading.

Sincerely

Jeff Efird DDS

About Dr. Efird

Dr. Jeff Efird has practiced dentistry for over 20 years. His love and respect for the dental profession continues to grow as he sees patients positively affected by proper oral health and quality treatment under his care. Dr. Efird understands a relationship with a dentist is a lifelong endeavor and values the respect and trust his patients extend.

Dr. Efird began his training as an undergraduate at UNC Chapel Hill. He attained a degree in chemistry before continuing his education and graduating from the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry in 1987.

Dedicated to expanding his own knowledge and that of his practice, Dr. Efird has completed over 1000 hours of continuing education since graduating from dental school. Over the last decade he has focused most of his education of advanced restorative techniques and implant restorative solutions. Much of the training has been associated with the renowned Spear Education center in Scottsdale.

A member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, North Carolina Dental Society, and Buncombe County Dental Society, Dr. Efird is committed to providing outstanding quality care to patients in Western North Carolina. He lives in Asheville with his wife and son, and loves to fish and build handcrafted boats.

Awareness of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has increased over the last few years.  Many patients are now seeking treatment for this very common and potentially life threatening condition.

Sleep apnea occurs when the tissue in the back of the throat collapses and blocks the airway.  This results in a severe drop in oxygen levels in the blood stream. Basically the person stops breathing and is oxygen deprived.  The condition may be mild (less than 15 episodes per hour), moderate (15-30 episodes per hour), or severe (greater than 30 episodes per hour).

SLEEP APNEA SYMPTOMS;

• Day time drowsines
• Sleepiness while driving
• Restless sleep
• Diminished mental capacity
• Loud snoring (about 50% of loud snorers have OSA)
• Waking from sleep chocking or gasping

TREATMENT of OSA and SNORING:

• The first step in treating OSA and/or snoring is an evaluation and diagnosis from a physician.  A sleep study (polysomnogram) is the test used to determine if you have OSA or primary snoring with no OSA.  After your physician has diagnosed your condition treatment may begin.
• Patients diagnosed with primary snoring and no OSA can be referred to a qualified dentist to construct a snore guard.
• Patients diagnosed with severe OSA will typically be advised to begin CPAP treatment.  
• Patients diagnosed with mild to moderate OSA have the option of CPAP treatment or oral appliance therapy.  If you choose oral appliance therapy, a dentist trained in dental sleep medicine can construct an appliance at the request of your physician.  Many patients find the dental appliance easier to tolerate than the CPAP.  

If you have any of the symptoms associated with OSA you should see your physician for evaluation.  OSA has been linked to memory loss, higher risk of stroke, heart attacks, congestive heart failure, and hypertension.  Don’t be one of the millions of Americans who go undiagnosed.

I have completed numerous hours of education in dental sleep medicine and trained with one of the top dental sleep medicine clinicians in the country.  If you have concerns or questions about OSA or snoring contact one of our offices at Carolina Mountain Dental for a free preliminary consultation.  We are here to help you.

Sincerely,

Jeff Efird DDS

About Dr. Efird

Dr. Jeff Efird has practiced dentistry for over 20 years. His love and respect for the dental profession continues to grow as he sees patients positively affected by proper oral health and quality treatment under his care. Dr. Efird understands a relationship with a dentist is a lifelong endeavor and values the respect and trust his patients extend.

Dr. Efird began his training as an undergraduate at UNC Chapel Hill. He attained a degree in chemistry before continuing his education and graduating from the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry in 1987.

Dedicated to expanding his own knowledge and that of his practice, Dr. Efird has completed over 1000 hours of continuing education since graduating from dental school. Over the last decade he has focused most of his education of advanced restorative techniques and implant restorative solutions. Much of the training has been associated with the renowned Spear Education center in Scottsdale.

A member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, North Carolina Dental Society, and Buncombe County Dental Society, Dr. Efird is committed to providing outstanding quality care to patients in Western North Carolina. He lives in Asheville with his wife and son, and loves to fish and build handcrafted boats.