Brushing Up on Healthy Teeth

By Deb Lehman

According to the Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention’s (CDC) National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health, dental decay is one of the most common chronic infectious diseases among U.S. children. By the age of 8, approximately 52 percent of children have experienced decay, and by the age of 17, 78 percent.

PROMOTING GOOD ORAL HEALTH IN CHILDREN AND ADULTS
“At Overlook’s Dental Care Center, we show patients how maintaining care of their teeth and their children’s teeth can protect their health and smiles,” says its proud director Dr, Brian Silverman, DMD. “Our hospital-based practice adheres to the highest standards of sterility and infection control.”

Melanie Miller, Manager Overlook Dental Care Center, emphasizes the value of regular dental cleanings, at least twice a year, in addition to home care.

“People should brush and floss their teeth several times a day,” says Miller. “Gingivitis, inflammation of gums from plaque, can be reversed by proper brushing and flossing.”

Besides vigilant brushing and flossing, the use of electric toothbrushes can be helpful in managing gum disease, especially for children with braces, people with arthritis or other difficulties with dexterity, and those who don’t floss as frequently as they should.

“I’m in favor of anything that makes brushing more fun for kids,” says Miller. “Whether it’s battery-powered spin brushes or character toothbrushes. Novelty is a powerful motivator.”

Sometimes Miller suggests a long-term treatment known as dental sealants, a clear plastic-like substance painted onto the grooved and pitted surfaces of the molars, which have proven to be effective in preventing cavities in children and teenagers ages 6 to 19.

Dr. Silverman says adolescents are motivated to brush and floss when they start dating. Bad breath that results from building up plaque is a social taboo.

“There are other medical causes for tooth decay,” observes Dr. Silverman. “Saliva acts as a buffer to reduce cavity formation. Certain medications and radiation treatments for cancer reduce the flow of saliva. Age also decreases the formation of saliva.”

“I’ve noted an increase in tooth decay among senior citizens,” Miller reports.

Dr. Silverman reports on another disturbing trend. “Females in their twenties who drink lots of diet soda with high acidity (or a low pH level) are more prone to tooth decay. Eating disorders such as bulimia, which are more prevalent in young women, also have a deleterious effect on teeth. Gastric acids unleashed by constant purging erodes the enamel.”

According to the American Dental Association, fluoride is probably the single most
effective agent to defend against tooth decay when used along with brushing and flossing, says Dr. Silverman. While more than half of the United States has access to fluoridated water, just 21 percent of New Jersey residents receive it from public water systems. Fluoride can be found in most toothpastes, several mouthwashes and bottled
water brands. Oral hygienists often administer topical fluoride treatments to children at the conclusion of each of their visits.

COSMETIC DENTISTRY
Whitening treatments continue to gain popularity, according to area dentists.

“I’ve seen an increase in patients of all ages requesting tooth whitening treatments,” says Kenneth Arida, DDS. Dr. Arida has a general and cosmetic practice located in Westfield that almost feels like home, with a coffee and juice bar in the waiting area, DVDs, and a friendly, competent staff practiced in the art of distraction.

“Teeth whitening or bleaching doesn’t involve any alteration of the enamel, it’s a safe procedure,” says Dr. Silverman. “The effects may last years, depending upon the individual.”

The procedure can be performed in the office or at home.

“One of the biggest benefits to having your teeth whitened in the dentist’s office is instant gratification,” Dr. Silverman notes.

The alternative is to acquire a whitening package from the dentist and do it yourself. It takes a little longer, but is cheaper and just as effective.

“What it boils down to is convenience and comfort,” notes Dr. Arida. “The in-office whitening treatment takes about one to two hours. Some people may not want to sit still for that long. Patients who use the take-home kits can wear them for 15 minutes a day while exercising or driving to work. Today, people can choose the method that best
suits their lifestyle.”

Unfortunately, the results are mixed. Some individuals require two touch-ups in one week to get super white teeth. The first procedure conditions the teeth, but on the second and third visit, you can really see the teeth respond to the whitening treatment.

“Although expensive, I’ve found that people are more concerned with results,” says Dr. Arida. “Money is secondary. Whitening does require maintenance. I offer my clients a sliding scale.”

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