Rochester Advanced Dentistry - Health Edge Blog

The 8 Most Artery Clogging Cities

2011-12-02T03:41:00.000-08:00

These urban centers have the highest rates of heart disease and obesity in the country, perhaps because they seem to promote sedentary lifestyles and diets heavy on fast food but light on fresh produce. We sorted through the latest statistical research from the CDC on obesity and heart disease rates to come up with this list of eight metropolitan areas with a population of over 200,000 that are most likely to clog your arteries. And because studies show that unhealthy habits are contagious, anybody moving to or spending time in these places should be extra careful to take care of their tickers.

1. Detroit, MI Detroit residents report more heart disease diagnoses than any other big city in the nation, according to CDC data, and 33% of them are obese. One thing the city's hearts do have in their favor: A vibrant urban agriculture movement is transforming empty lots into veggie-filled community gardens, increasing access to fresh produce in neighborhoods where it was previously scarce.

Read the entire article

Rochester Advanced Dentistry 248.656.2020

Personalized Message from Santa

2011-11-30T16:14:00.001-08:00

Click on the link below to create a free personlized video from Santa:

http://www.portablenorthpole.tv/prepare-a-message

Happy Holidays

Does Whitening Toothpaste Work?

2011-11-26T07:14:00.000-08:00

Question
Whitening toothpaste: Does it whiten teeth?
Answer
Whitening toothpaste can whiten teeth slightly by removing surface stains, such as those caused by drinking coffee or smoking. Whitening toothpaste can also be used after a bleaching treatment to help maintain results. However, whitening toothpaste can't change the natural color of teeth or reverse discoloration caused by excessive exposure to fluoride during tooth development, penetrating surface stains or decay.

To remove surface stains, whitening toothpaste may include:

Special abrasives that gently polish the teeth
Chemicals, such as sodium tripolyphosphate, that help break down or dissolve stains
When used twice a day, whitening toothpaste typically takes two to four weeks to make teeth whiter. However, new research shows that whitening toothpaste containing the chemical blue covarine can make teeth appear immediately whiter. After use, blue covarine adheres to the surface of the teeth and creates an optical illusion that makes teeth appear less yellow.

Whitening toothpaste is generally safe for daily use, but excessive use might damage tooth enamel. If you're considering using a whitening toothpaste, look for a brand that has a seal of approval from a reputable dental organization — such as the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance, which indicates that the toothpaste is effective at removing surface stains and reducing tooth decay. If you're not satisfied with the effect of whitening toothpaste, talk to your dentist or dental hygienist about more effective tooth whitening options.

Rochester Advanced Dentistry 248.656.2020

Holiday Guide of Rochester Events

2011-11-22T14:42:00.000-08:00

Lagniappe

(and the start of the Big, Bright Light Show)

November28th 6pm

Kris Kringle Market

December 2 4-9pm December 3 noon-12pm

Santa's Visit on the Farm

December 3 9am-4pm

Hometown Christmas Parade

December 4 1:45 pm

Polar Express Celebration

December 9 6:30 - 9pm

Breakfast With Santa

December 10 9-11am

Lunch with Santa

December 10th and 11th 11am - 1pm

An Old-Fashioned Christmas

December 17th 1-4pm

Posted by Rochester Advanced Dentistry

New Treatment For Canker Sores

2011-11-14T18:17:00.000-08:00

A canker sore is a painful, open sore in the mouth. Canker sores are white or yellow and surrounded by a bright red area. The first symptom is usually a tingling or burning sensation that you feel before other symptoms develop.

Pain decreases in 7 to 10 days, with complete healing in 1 to 3 weeks. Particularly large ulcers (greater than 1 cm in diameter) often take longer to heal (2 to 4 weeks). Occasionally, a severe occurrence may be accompanied by nonspecific symptoms of illness, such as fever. Canker sores often return.

Canker sores can be triggered by emotional stress, dietary deficiencies (especially iron, folic acid, or vitamin B-12), menstrual periods, hormonal changes, food allergies, and similar situations. They occur most commonly with viral infections. In some cases, the cause can not be identified.

Dr. Doolin and Dr. Haddad are specially trained to use a dental laser to treat canker sores, resulting in decreased symptoms and shortened duration of the canker sore.

For additional information call Rochester Advanced Dentistry 248.656.2020

Listen To Dr. Haddad On The Radio

2011-11-07T06:32:00.000-08:00

News from Rochester Advanced Dentistry-Fall 2011

2011-10-27T02:30:00.000-07:00

Read our Fall 2011 newsletter-click here

Straighter Teeth

2011-10-23T10:32:00.000-07:00

The Inman Aligner is a fantastic, simple and hassle-free way of straightening your front teeth. It is the orthodontic treatment of choice for adult relapse.
In the past anyone with crooked teeth have had only a few choices. Fixed braces and clear braces work well but are slow and can also be costly.

However the Inman Aligner now gives us all a very real alternative. Because it works so quickly and efficiently, if you don't like the idea of having brackets stuck to your teeth or waiting months and months for a clear brace to work, you can now have your front teeth straightened in as little as 6 -16 weeks.

Even if veneers are necessary because your teeth are discoloured and mis-shapen, the Inman Aligner the perfect way to align the teeth first quickly before the veneers are prepared. This way you can get a far more conservative solution.
The Inman Aligner is not just an orthodontic appliance. Many cosmetic dentists are calling it the "missing link between orthodontics and cosmetic dentistry."
It has also been described as the "Greatest Innovation in Cosmetic Dentistry since the porcelain veneer".
Not every case is possible and of course there are limitations, but if you are suitable you could get a fantastic smile in a matter of weeks and at far less cost.

For additional information contact Rochester Advanced Dentistry 248.656.2020

Do your gums bleed?

2011-10-19T07:40:00.001-07:00

One of the major signs of gum disease is bleeding gum tissue. Often times people think that bleeding gums are something you don't need to worry about. The following information may change your mind:

Gum disease increases the risk of head and neck cancer ~American Academy of Oral Systemic Health

Tooth loss and gum disease increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease~ Mayo clinic

Cavities are caused by a germ that spreads while kissing and sharing food~AAOSH

Gum disease increases pancreatic and kidney cancer risk by 62%~Harvard

Bacteria in your mouth travel to other parts of your body in your bloodstream~AAOSH

Diabetes and bleeding gums increases your risk of premature death by 400-700 percent~AAOSH

93% of people with gum disease are at risk for diabetes~AAOSH

Pregnant women with gum disease have only a 1 in 7 chance of giving birth to a healthy child of normal size~AAOSH

Research has found an association between gum disease and rheumatoid arthritis~American Academy of Family Physicians

People with gum disease are twice as likely to die from heart disease and three times as likely to die from a stroke~ Mayo Clinic

The Surgeon General reports that at least 80% of American adults have gum disease~AAOSH

For additional information or treatment options please contact Rochester Advanced Dentistry 248.656.2020

Best and Worst Candy for Teeth

2011-10-14T05:43:00.000-07:00

Halloween candies divided into five distinct types and rated, on a scale from 1-10 (1 being good for your teeth, 10 being the absolute worst cavity-causers)
Taffy and hard candy are the two worst offenders. Use this Halloween guide to safeguarding your children's teeth, as always, be wary of excess consumption of any trickery treat.

Taffy
Fear Factor Score: 9 out of 10
Traditionally, dentists have always known that the longer a food sticks to the teeth the longer bacteria has to feed on it to produce cavity-causing acid.One of the best ways to avoid cavities during Halloween is to avoid the sticky candy that can plaster your teeth and wedge itself into the nooks and crannies of your mouth.

Hard Candy
Fear Factor Score: 8.5 out of 10
Although hard candies like Jaw Breakers and Everlasting Gobstoppers don't have that stick factor, they hurt your mouth from the amount of time they take to dissolve,The longer food sits in your mouth, the more acidic the environment becomes.

"People naturally assume that if they can't feel the candy sticking to their mouths, they are okay, but that isn't true. If you leave a hard candy in your mouth for a lengthy period of time, this can be even worse than a sticky candy."

Peanut Butter Cups
Fear Factor Score: 6.5 out of 10
Safer than candies like taffy, the ever-present peanut butter cup is still a hazard to your mouth. Studies have indicated that chocolate is especially good at creating acid buildup in your mouth and the stickiness of peanut butter doesn't help.

Candy-Covered Chocolate
Fear Factor Score: 6 out of 10
Most people assume that when chocolate lacks the sticky peanut butter, it has to be better for their teeth. Again, while it lacks that attribute, it suffers from the time factor. Candy-covered chocolate is typically consumed in a bag where the consumer is continually chewing on the candy. While a peanut butter cup is typically consumed in one or two bites, a bag of M&M’s can last for minutes. This extra time gives the bacteria plenty of time to generate cavity causing acid.

Sugar Sticks
Fear Factor Score: 5 out of 10
Most parents automatically toss out their kids' Pixie Stix with the assumption that a little bag of sugar must be awful for teeth. Contrary to popular belief, these little sacks of sugar are some of the safest Halloween treats out there.

Pixie Stix are typically poured directly onto the tongue, avoiding chewing and your teeth altogether. They are then quickly consumed and out of the mouth before any major damage can been done. So while it may not make sense, those sacks of sugar may be the best candy for your teeth.

Read this entire article

Dry Mouth

2011-10-03T18:22:00.000-07:00

Lack of saliva is a common problem that may seem little more than a nuisance, but a dry mouth can affect both your enjoyment of food and the health of your teeth. The medical term for dry mouth is xerostomia (zeer-o-STO-me-uh).

Dry mouth can cause problems because saliva helps prevent tooth decay by limiting bacterial growth and washing away food and plaque. Saliva enhances your ability to taste and makes it easier to swallow. In addition, enzymes in saliva aid in digestion.

Although the treatment depends on the cause, dry mouth is often a side effect of medication. Dry mouth may improve with an adjusted dosage or a new prescription.

If you suspect that your medications may be contributing to your dry mouth additional information is available at: http://pdrhealth.com/home/home.aspx

Contact Rochester Advanced Dentistry 248.56.2020

Are your teeth giving you a headache?

2011-09-27T15:24:00.000-07:00

Do you suffer from headaches? Have you been diagnosed with migraines? Many people live their daily lives with severe headaches or facial pain without any relief. Other symptoms common to headache sufferers are ear pain and congestion, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), dizziness, and even neck tension or pain. Unfortunately, many people have been treated by numerous physicians throughout their lives without any improvement in their symptoms. The last person most people would turn to for a cure would be their dentist; however your bite could be the cause of your chronic headaches!

Many headaches can be part of undiagnosed Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder or an abnormal bite. 90% of all headaches are considered “muscle tension headaches,” and can be directly related to a person’s unbalanced bite. Many people diagnosed with migraines can actually be suffering from these muscle tension headaches.

This syndrome is the source of chronic pain for many, and can result in severe wear, or fracturing, of your teeth and restorations, leading to tooth loss. This viscous cycle results in an even more unbalanced bite causing a person’s headaches and pain to worsen over time. Most people would never think that their dentist could help with headaches, but we are improving the lives of our patients every day.

CLICK HERE to read the Oakland Press Article

Depending on a dentist’s training and experience in this area, they should be able to determine if a patient has a poor bite through a thorough exam and precise measurements. People are often frustrated because previous forms of treatment have been unsuccessful. Fortunately, we are able to tell if a person is a candidate for this type of therapy before any action begins. This makes people very comfortable with pursuing this treatment when they are confident they will benefit from it.

Dental Tip of the Month
Are you experiencing any of these symptoms on a regular basis? Looking for answers?
Dr. Doolin and Dr. Haddad will be giving a presentation that includes discussing the latest techniques in headache and TMJ treatment at the Women’s Lifestyle’s Extravaganza October 22nd and 23rd at 1:00pm at Macomb CC Sports and Expo Center.
Their presentation:
“”Exploring the Hottest Topics in Dentistry: Cosmetics, TMJ/Headache treatment, and Sleep Apnea,” will be given both days of the event. The doctors will be available throughout the day answering questions and providing additional information for attendees.

New Research on Teething Gels

2011-09-23T11:16:00.000-07:00

The FDA has recently advised against teething pain relievers containing benzocaine (the active ingredients in most over-the-counter teething gels.) The FDA says it can cause a rare but serious condition called methemoglobinemia, which reduces the amount of oxygen in the blood stream.

Try these tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the FDA:

Offer your child a chilled (not frozen) teething ring made of firm rubber
Gently massage your child's gums with a clean finger
Should benzocaine use be necessary, use the gel or liquid sparingly- not more then four times a day

Try: Baby Orajel has a new Naturals line that's benzocaine-,alcohol- and dye-free.

For additional information contact Rochester Advanced Dentistry 248.656.2020

Caring for your child's teeth

2011-09-19T17:34:00.000-07:00

Healthy teeth are important to your child's overall health. From the time your child is born, there are things you can do to promote healthy teeth. For babies, you should clean teeth with a soft, clean cloth or baby's toothbrush. Avoid putting the baby to bed with a bottle and check teeth regularly for spots or stains.

For all children, you should

* Brush teeth with a fluoride toothpaste

* Provide healthy foods and limit sweet snacks and drinks

* Provide low-fat milk and dairy products high in calcium

* Schedule regular dental check-ups

Forming good habits at a young age can help your child have healthy teeth for life.

For additional information contact Rochester Advanced Dentistry 248.656.2020

Why Your Dentist may be the most important Doctor you see this year…

2011-09-10T05:47:00.000-07:00

The days of a dental cleaning consisting of a quick “buff and polish” are over. Today’s dental visit should be more like a physical. Many findings during a dental visit can have a major impact on your overall health.

1. Blood Pressure: At every dental appointment, your blood pressure should be taken. High blood pressure is a sign that your heart is working too hard. If your blood pressure is too high, a visit to your medical doctor is recommended.

2. Oral Cancer Detection: At every dental cleaning, a thorough cancer screening should be conducted. Oral cancers are on the rise and are easier to treat and survive the earlier they are detected.

3. Sleep Apnea Diagnosis: Sleep Apnea is a very serious condition that involves a person stopping breathing several times throughout the night. Small airways, large necks, and snoring are good indicators that sleep apnea is present, or may be present in the future. Some dentists have screening equipment that can actually test you for sleep apnea. At that time, a referral to a sleep physician or a sleep appliance made by the dentist may be recommended.

4. Gum Disease : Bacteria in your mouth leads to bleeding gums and bone loss around your teeth. According to the ADA, 78% of the adult population has some form of periodontal (gum) disease. In addition, periodontal disease is not just an infection that affects your mouth, it affects your entire body. Periodontal disease has been linked to heart disease, strokes, diabetes, and a weakened immune system. Therefore, your dentist should be measuring and monitoring your gums with each cleaning, and when necessary, treating your gum disease accordingly.

Dental Tip of the Month:

Want to live longer…Floss!

In today’s society, we are rushed, stressed, and over committed and it comes as no surprise that we are all looking for ways to save time. Many of my patients feel that they have no time to floss. While this seems like a valid excuse, you may have less time on your hands if you don’t floss.

• If you start flossing today, you could add up to 6 years on to your life!

• 6 years would be an additional 3.1 million minutes.

• Let’s say you are a REALLY slow flosser and it took you 5 minutes per day.

• Let’s say you floss every day of your 100 year life- you would spend 182,500 minutes of your life flossing.

• This would leave you with an additional 5.6 years to do whatever you want!!

To Chew, or Not to Chew?

2011-09-08T00:27:00.000-07:00

click "here" to read the Right Bite article

The great debate over chewing gum-

Here are some pro's and con's, you decide what you think:

PRO's

Relieves Dry Mouth- stimulates the salivary glands
Sugar free gum helps fight decay by stimulating salivary production and neutralizing acid in the mouth
Xylitol and other ingredients in brands of gum help to remineralize teeth, again fighting decay
Freshen breath
Satisfies snack cravings
Reduces ear discomfort while flying

CON's

Sugary gum can promote tooth decay by bathing the teeth in sugar
Although gum can freshen breath temporarily it can mask underlying problems
Aggravates the TMJ

Please contact Rochester Advanced Dentistry for additional information 248.656.2020

Have you ever thought about changing your smile?

2011-09-01T04:50:00.000-07:00

Are you self-conscious when smiling for pictures? Do you ever put your hand up in front of your mouth when you laugh to hide your teeth? Do you want to regain that healthy, youthful smile you used to have? Maybe it’s time for you to finally invest in yourself and transform your teeth into the beautiful smile you have always wanted.

Cosmetic dentistry is performed to fix a variety of problems. Maybe you are uncomfortable with the size, shape or spacing of your teeth and are interested in porcelain veneers or bonding. Maybe you have crowding or crooked teeth because you never had orthodontics or stopped wearing your retainers. You may also be an excellent candidate for porcelain veneers, sometimes referred to as “instant orthodontics.” Maybe years of wear and tear dulled your once-bright smile, and you would like to rejuvenate it with advanced whitening techniques. Or maybe you have older dental work that looks unnatural and keeps you from smiling as much as you would like.

Whatever factors may be inhibiting your smile, Dr. Doolin and Dr. Haddad can help. Both Dr. Doolin and Dr. Haddad have been committed to excellence through continuing education. They are two of the few dentists in the area who have completed post-graduate training at the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. “We feel that because of the rapid pace of change in Dentistry, our patients deserve to have their doctors learning these new and improved techniques. Our goal is to keep improving ourselves to better serve our patients,” says Dr. Haddad. By undergoing this intense cosmetic training, Dr. Doolin and Dr. Haddad have achieved clinical abilities that few dentists in the country possess, allowing them to provide their patients with only the best restorations and care possible.

Here are some things for you to consider when choosing the right cosmetic dentist… because not all cosmetic dentists are the same!

1. Continuing Education and experience: Dentists NEED to stay trained and educated in the latest technology and materials. Achieving great cosmetic outcomes takes a combination of artistry, proper technique, and an eye for detail. There are materials available today that are far superior to those used in the past; however, these materials are extremely technique-sensitive. Accordingly, your dentist needs to be specifically and properly trained on their use.

2. Before and After Smile Gallery on their website: Every dentist has their own approach and style, however seeing examples of smile makeovers they have performed on other patients should be a huge deciding factor for you. The goal for all smile enhancements should be a healthy, beautiful, and most importantly, a natural smile. No one should know that you have dental work in your mouth. They should only know that you have an attractive smile that exudes confidence and beauty. Make sure that the examples of the cosmetic dentist you are considering demonstrate that.

3. Comfort, Service, and the overall experience: Very few people truly enjoy going to the dentist, and many may even be fearful when considering especially larger cosmetic procedures. Therefore, some dentists choose to offer services that aid in making the experience more comfortable. Some of these amenities may include: refreshments before or after your appointment, massage chairs, headphones, nitrous oxide gas, and oral sedation or other relaxation methods. If these are services that you would value as a dental patient, inquire at the office you are considering to learn if they are offered.

Dr. Doolin and Dr. Haddad have changed the lives of hundreds of patients in the area by giving them the smile of their dreams. This is your opportunity to have them do the same for you. For more information, please visit www.rochesteradvanceddentistry.com or call our office at (248) 656-2020 for your personal smile consultation.

Family Dentistry

2011-08-11T11:40:00.000-07:00

Through out life our dental needs are always changing. At Rochester Advanced Dentistry we pride ourselves on providing the best and most advanced treatment options for our patients from birth through their golden years.

Weather you or your family need preventative services, cosmetic services or restorative dental treatment we are able to help.

Children

Adults

We enjoy getting to know our patients and their families. It is rewarding to see patients that we have known since they were in diapers go away to college, get married, start careers and then bring in their children.

Getting to know our patients also allows us to identify problems as soon as they arise. Often times we can identify problems such as sleep apnea, tonsil problems, changes in diet and the need for orthodontic treatment by changes in behavior or appearance.

Oakland Press Article

For additional information or to schedule an appointment please contact Rochester Advanced Dentistry 248.656.2020

Clenching and Grinding Your Teeth at Night: Fact or Fiction

2011-08-03T13:05:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been told you grind your teeth at night? Ever wonder why your dentist is making these claims but you have never noticed any symptoms or never been told by your significant other that you do grind?Did your dentist recommend a night guard that you didn't think that you really needed? Hopefully the following information will answer all of you clenching/ grinding questions.

I have been clenching and grinding my teeth since I was a teenager. I had many symptoms of a grinder including morning headaches, muscle tension, temperature sensitivity on my teeth, receding gums and chipping teeth. I attributed these to other things in life like stress.

The thought of wearing an appliance every night for a problem that I didn't think I had did not seem appealing. Then I cracked my first tooth...

At that point I realized that I was grinding my teeth. I made myself a bite guard ( a perk of being in dental school) After wearing my bite guard for about two weeks I noticed that my headaches were gone, my muscles in my jaw no longer felt tired and the sensitivity on my teeth was greatly reduced.

FACT or FICTION

Fiction: I don't grind my teeth, my spouse would tell me

Fact: Most of the time your grinding is very quite, often undetectable by the person sleeping next to you

Fiction: I can't be grinding my teeth- I snore

Fact: It is common for people to alternate grinding and snoring through out the night.

Fiction: The divots of enamel missing at the gum line are from aggressive tooth brushing

Fact: Unless you are brushing with a Brillo pad you did not wear away your enamel with your tooth brush. Your enamel is the strongest substance in your body, stronger then your bones. Try to imagine brushing away your leg bone with your toothbrush- you couldn't do it. This damage is caused by grinding.

Fiction: An over the counter bite guard will do the same thing that a custom made guard will- and save me money

Fact: Although an over the counter bite guard may protect your teeth from grinding it does not protect your muscles or your TMJ (jaw joint)- since the over the counter bite guard it a "one size fits all" it is typically very bulky and hard to wear. They are soft which causes patients to chew on it since your brain registers it as food- often times wearing these guards cause damage to your jaw muscles and joint, treatment for the damage caused is very expensive when compared to the minimal investment in a custom guard to prevent the problem.

For additional information please contact Rochester Advanced Dentistry 248.656.2020

What is a dental implant?

2011-07-28T05:50:00.000-07:00

Before and after picture of patient with implants

Click here for our smile gallery

If you are in jeopardy of losing a tooth your dentist may give you the option of having a dental implant placed. A dental implant is a device that replaces a missing tooth root and supports crowns, bridges or dentures.

The most important requirement for placing dental implants is availability of adequate bone for support. If teeth are lost to trauma, or have been missing for a long time, the bone volume in the area may be compromised. Today's bone grafting procedures can recreate the missing bony tissue at the site of the missing teeth so that implants can be placed. Your Dentist can recommend one of many types of grafting procedures that is right for your situation.

For additional information please contact Rochester Advanced Dentistry 248.656.2020

www.rochesteradvanceddentistry.com

Are your teeth giving you a headache?

2011-07-21T08:14:00.000-07:00

View this news story

Headaches can be a major problem effecting a persons life drastically if they persist and are frequent. There are many causes of headaches; allergies, fatigue, stress...

One common cause of headaches that is commonly overlooked is teeth grinding.

When a person grinds their teeth it stresses the jaw muscles, it can also damage the TMJ (jaw joint) this can often result in headaches.

Your dentist is often able to diagnosis your grinding just by looking at your teeth-

The signs that show that you are grinding your teeth include:

Extreme wear on the teeth
Large bone growths (your bodies way of protecting your teeth)
Chipping away bone and enamel at the gum line as well as gum tissue recession
Chipping enamel

Many treatment and preventative options are available depending on your symptoms

For additional information or to schedule an appointment please contact

Rochester Advanced Dentistry 248.656.2020

Lasers in Modern Dentistry

2011-07-14T11:01:00.000-07:00

There are many uses for lasers in modern dentistry. Lasers can be used as a cosmetic procedure to improve your smile. If you are self conscious about a gummy smile, we can use laser therapy to reshape the gums and improve the appearance of your smile!

Lasers can also be used to effectively treat gum disease. The laser removes bacteria from gum pockets and encourages the natural healing process.

There are also different types of hard tissue lasers and CO2 lasers the can effectively prepare teeth for restoration, although, in most cases the restoration must be for initial placement. In some cases, the need for anesthetic is eliminated. After the teeth are prepared, a composite or porcelain filling can be placed to properly restore the tooth to proper function.

To find out how laser dentistry can benefit you, contact Rochester Advanced Dentistry or call (248)656-2020.

Teeth Grinding and Clenching

2011-07-07T09:28:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been told that you clench or grind your teeth? You may be unaware of this habit until you visit the dentist. Most of the time bruxism, which is the technical term for teeth grinding, usually occurs while you sleep.

Common symptoms clenchers and grinders experience include:

chipped teeth

tooth sensitivity

dull headaches

TMJ soreness

"notching" at the gumline, also known as abfractions

recession of the gum tissue

not getting a good nights sleep can also be be a symptom of grinding.

Occlusal guards, which are hard acrylic appliances custom made to fit the teeth, help to prevent any further damage by protecting your teeth. The appliance is worn on the upper teeth while you sleep, or during your most stressful times of the day. Occlusal guards do not fix any damage that has been done to the teeth, it is more of a way to prevent any further damage that may be done while clenching and grinding. The occlusal guards absorb the forces of your bite. Over the counter guards are uncomfortable and can make you grind more because they are soft and your brain registers that as food. Only the custom made occlusal guards are recommended by us at Rochester Advanced Dentistry.

The Truth about Snoring

2011-05-19T12:04:00.000-07:00

Most of us have had some experience with snoring, either personally or with stories told by others. In addition to being a nuisance snoring can be a sign of a bigger problem; sleep apnea.

Often people who snore experience "apnea" episode where they completely stop breathing.

When you stop breathing your oxygen levels go down making your heart work harder. These episodes put a person at a higher risk for heart attack, stoke and many other life threatening conditions.

If you or someone you know snore they should be tested for sleep apnea.

In years past testing for this condition required spending the night in a sleep clinic. Today monitoring can be done in the comfort of your own home.

A small sleep monitor is worn over night and records your sleeping pattern.

Information obtained such as blood oxygen level, breathing, and apneatic episodes are evaluated to determine if you are at risk for sleep apnea.

If you are at risk for sleep apnea there are many options available to treat this condition.

To schedule your sleep apnea monitoring contact Rochester Advanced Dentistry 248.656.2020

Improve Your Smile

2011-05-13T10:43:00.000-07:00

Veneers are a great option for many people who are looking to improve the aesthetics of their smile. When looking for a cosmetic dentist there are many things to consider, one question that you want to ask the dentist is what laboratory they use for their dental work.

Many dentists place "Lumineer" veneers. Lumineers are a brand of veneers and are made by specific laboratories, often in other states.

At Rochester Advanced Dentistry we choose to use a local laboratory. We feel that providing our patients with the highest quality materials and aesthetics is our top priority. Since our lab is only a few miles from our office Dr. Doolin, Dr. Haddad, the laboratory technician and patient are able to work hand in hand creating the perfect smile.

For a smile consultation please contact Rochester Advanced Dentistry 248.656.2020

Rochester Advanced Dentistry Smile Gallery

Healthy Gum Tissue

2011-05-05T06:44:00.000-07:00

At Rochester Advanced Dentistry we strive to maintain and promote healthy gum tissue. In the past "silver fillings" were often placed in teeth, in addition to being unattractive these fillings have also shown to cause irritation to gum tissue often due to less then ideal margins and/ or metal allergies

We only use materials that are of the highest quality and that have been proven to promote ideal tissue response.

All of our materials are BPA free.

For more information on tooth colored fillings please contact

Rochester Advanced Dentistry 248.656.2020

Sleep Apnea Treatment Options

2011-03-17T04:37:00.000-07:00

Sleep apnea has become a very common diagnosis for many Americans. In years past snoring was merely something people were embarrassed of or annoyed by depending on if you were the snorer or the person trying to sleep next to the person struggling to breath.

It is now known that snoring is more than a nuisance and can actually be shortening a persons life span. Often times people who snore also experience apnea episodes in which they completely stop breathing. These episodes can occur 5 - 50 times an hour.

When you stop breathing, the oxygen levels in your blood go down and carbon dioxide levels go up. This makes your heart and blood vessels work harder increasing your risk for heart attacks, high blood pressure and death.

Numerous treatment options are available depending on the severity of your sleep apnea;

Option 1: Surgery

Tissue if removed from the back of the throat to open the airway.

Option 2: C-PAP (continuous positive airway pressure )

Air forces the airway to remain open via a hose to a nasal pillow, nose mask, full-face mask, or a combination.

Option 3: A dental appliance

Opens the airway by minimally advancing the lower jaw while sleeping

For more information on sleep apnea screening and treatment options contact

Rochester Advanced Dentistry 248.656.2020

Migraine Free

2011-03-10T05:27:00.000-08:00

I have had Migraines since I was a teen, I was given my orthotic in September and pretty much knew right away that my headaches were better. I wasn't until a few weeks later that when I would take my orthotic out that other symptoms would arise. I would notice ringing or clogging in my ears especially the right one, pain behind my eyes , dizziness, and fatigue in my face a jaw. All symptoms of TMD or TMJ disorder when i put the orthotic back in the symptom would go away,I would also get a headache as soon as twenty min of the orthotic being out. I now know how important my "proper" bite is. I wear my orthotic 24,7, because I like the way "normal" feels

Dental Overhangs

2011-03-01T09:52:00.000-08:00

An overhang is an excess of dental filling material beyond the normal tooth contour. Older silver fillings can expand and shrink over time causing overhangs. A poorly done filling can also have an overhang. These poor margins can cause bad breath, bleeding and food traps
which can lead to bone loss.

Your dentist or hygienist will monitor your fillings through routine exams and x-rays and recommend the proper treatment when necessary.

Open Up and Say Ahhh

2011-02-17T05:18:00.000-08:00

Tonsillectomies, once a rite of passage for children, may be making a comeback.

Most remember the sore throat and never-ending supply of ice cream, though today this surgery is a rarity. Rochester dentists Kurt Doolin, and Jeff Haddad say the benefits of tonsillectomys should be re-examined

Haddad says, "It may be worth having your children's tonsils checked if they have poor sleeping habits including sleeping in odd positions, earaches, sore throats, visits to the hospital to have tubes installed in their ears, and subsequent visits when those fall out."

The doctors say common treatments, such as tubes in the ears, focus on the symptoms only, not the cause."Tubes are like putting a Band-Aid on a wound," Doolin says. They just relieve pressure and drainage, and don't address the underlying cause.

Complications from enlarged tonsils or adenoids can be developmentally devastating to dental health, choking off a child's - even an adult's - airway."The tongue shoots up to the roof of the mouth, causing the teeth to collapse inward in the lower jaw and the palette to push upwards from the force of the tongue."

Catching the problem early enough, before the mouth becomes too distorted, could prevent future orthodontic treatment, or at least lessen a child's time in braces, the dentists say.

"Children and adults can have problems with obstructive sleep apnea," "Sometimes it can lead to behavioral problems. With children it can affect their ...

The entire "Open Up and Say Ahhh" Oakland Press article

Five Ways to Keep Your Childs Teeth Healthy

2011-02-16T09:56:00.000-08:00

Limit the bottle and sippie cup

As soon as teeth start to erupt they are susceptible to decay. Sipping on juice or milk frequently lead to cavities at any age.

2. Start good habits early

From birth until the first tooth erupts wipe your child's gums with a wash cloth. Once the first tooth starts to erupt introduce a tooth brush. Lead by example- make dental care a family event, let your kids see you brushing and flossing.

3. Regular visits to the dentist

By three years of age your child should be on a twice a year cleaning and exam schedule with your dentist

4. Fluoride

Have your water checked to make sure your child is getting optimal fluoride. Talk to your dentist or pediatrician about fluoride supplements.

5. Protect their teeth while playing sports

If your child is playing a contact sport make sure they are wearing a protective mouth guard

Schedule for Childrens Dental Care

2011-02-11T05:00:00.000-08:00

Primary teeth eruption

Birth- 3 years old

Wiping gums with clean cloth after every feeding

First dental appointment- ADA recommends 6 months after first tooth erupts, many parents choose to wait until there child is closer to the age of 3 and are more cooperative

As soon as the teeth begin to appear brushing with a pea-sized amount of toothpaste

Fluoride free until at least 1 year old (this depends on the individual child)

Talking to your dentist and physician about fluoride supplements

3 - 5 years old

Start regular dental visits twice a year

fluoride and xrays will be recommended when your dentist thinks it is right for your child

tooth brushing should be taking place morning and night

by the age of 4 thumb sucking should be a thing of the past

your child's tonsils, airway and jaw/ palate formation should be evaluated

6 - 12 years old

the first permanent molars will erupt around 6 and the second molars around 12 years of age these molars develop with deep grooves that should be evaluated for sealants

an orthodontic consultation and treatment if necessary

12-18 years old

Education on dietary choices and decay

Evaluation for wisdom tooth removal

Permanent teeth eruption

Dry Mouth Syndrome

2011-01-25T15:43:00.000-08:00

Did you know that dry mouth can be caused by medications, medical conditions, emotional stress and anxiety, and different products that we use in our mouths. Dry mouth can be a temporary or chronic condition. The dryness can lead to decreased saliva in the mouth. Our saliva plays a very important role in our mouth, it helps with digestion, speaking, chewing and preventing bacteria growth in the mouth. Chronic dry mouth can lead to tooth decay, gum infection, gum disease and other health conditions. If you have dry mouth, you need to follow good dental hygiene habits-brushing, flossing and visiting your dentist regularly.

Some of the signs of dry mouth are:

Difficulty speaking or swallowing or chewing

Sore Throat

Altered sense of taste

An infection in the mouth

A burning sensation

Bad breath

A rough, dry tongue

Not enough saliva

A dry, sticky feeling in the mouth or throat

Signs of dryness, such as cracked lips, sores, split skin at the corners of the mouth

Fungal infection of the mouth

Increased plaque, decay and gum disease

Did you know, there are also other things that you use that maybe are contributing to the dryness in your mouth? Your toothpaste (the foaming agent called sodium lauryl sulfate or SLS) and and your mouthwashes(ones containing alcohol) both have ingredients that can cause the dryness.

There are many things you can do to help with the dry mouth:

Drinking plenty of water-frequent sips of water

Make sure you have good dental habits

Avoid mouth washes that contain alcohol or peroxide

Stay away from salty foods

Stay away from drinks containing alcohol or caffeine

Using over-the-counter rinses and creams (Biotene , Cloysis) to help restore moisture

Sugar-free candy, sugar-free gum, or gum made to stimulate saliva flow

Artificial saliva(saliva substitutes)

Dental Sealants

2011-01-24T14:41:00.000-08:00

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends placing dental sealants on the first permanent molars when they come in the mouth(around 6 years of age). They also recommend placing sealants on the second permanent molars( which will come in around 12 years of age). Dental sealants help reduce cavities on the chewing surfaces of the tooth. Tooth decay affects nearly one-fifth of the 2-4 year olds. More than one-half of the 8 year olds, and nearly three-fourths of 17 year olds.

Dental sealants are one of the preventative procedures that can be done to reduce the incidence of dental decay. The material is a plastic coating that is applied to the chewing surfaces. The sealants are placed on a clean tooth surface. The application if fairly simple, the technique is important. The tooth is isolated,cleaned, and and then a slightly acidic solution is applied and rinsed to roughen up the surface. This roughness allows the sealant material to adhere better. The sealants are checked on each hygiene visit to ensure that they are still present. On occasion the sealant needs to be touched up to for it to be effective. Sealants can last for years. Even though dental sealants are placed, they do chip and wear off after years, and dental decay can still form. Following good dental hygiene habits along with sealants, will help to the children have healthy teeth and gums.

What your bad breath is trying to tell you

2011-01-24T05:58:00.000-08:00

Bad breath (halitosis) can be a serious problem . It's no wonder store shelves are overflowing with gum, mints, mouthwashes and other products designed to help eliminate this problem. But many of these products are just temporary fixes.
Certain foods, health conditions and habits are among the causes of bad breath. In many cases, you can improve bad breath with proper dental hygiene. If recommended hygiene measures don't solve the problem, you may want to see your dentist or doctor to be sure a more serious condition isn't causing your bad breath.

Most bad breath originates in your mouth. There are many causes of bad breath :

Food- The breakdown of food around your teeth can cause a foul odor. Eating foods containing certain oils is another source of bad breath. Onions and garlic are the best-known examples, but other vegetables and spices also can cause bad breath. After these foods are digested and absorbed into your bloodstream, they're carried to your lungs and are given off in your breath until the foods are eliminated from your body.

Dental problems. Poor dental hygiene and periodontal disease can be a source of bad breath. If you don't brush and floss daily, food particles remain in your mouth, collecting bacteria and decomposing

Dry mouth. Saliva helps cleanse your mouth, removing particles that may cause bad odors. Dry mouth can occur during sleep, leading to morning breath. Some medications can lead to a chronic dry mouth, as can a problem with your salivary glands.

Diseases. In about 10 percent of bad breath cases, the bad odors do not come from the mouth . For example, illnesses, such as some cancers and digestive disorders, can cause breath odor as a result of chemicals they produce.

Diabetes and kidney or liver failure can lead to a fishy smell.

Chronic reflux of stomach acids (GERD) has been associated with bad breath.

Tobacco products. Smoking dries out your mouth as well as having an unpleasant smell

Is sleeping, killing you?

2011-01-20T07:33:00.000-08:00

It is well known that sleep is one of the basic human needs. Not getting adequate sleep can negatively effect every aspect of your life. But you may not know that if you are suffering from snoring or sleep apnea you are likely causing harm to your body and shortening your life span while sleeping.

What is sleep apnea? Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that occurs when a person's breathing is interrupted during sleep. People with untreated sleep apnea stop breathing repeatedly during their sleep, sometimes hundreds of times.

When you miss a breath or take an abnormal breath, the amount of oxygen in your blood drops to an abnormal level. The reduced oxygen levels can lead to a variety of medical problems including high blood pressure.

There are two types of sleep apnea:
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA): The more common of the two forms of apnea, it is caused by a blockage of the airway, usually when the soft tissue in the back of the throat collapses during sleep.

Central sleep apnea: Unlike OSA, the airway is not blocked but the brain fails to signal the muscles to breathe due to instability in the respiratory control center.

Am I at Risk for Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea can affect anyone at any age, even children. However, risk factors for sleep apnea include:
Having a large neck size (17 inches or greater in men and 16 inches or greater in women)
Certain shapes of the palate and jaw
Having larger tonsils
Having a large tongue
Narrow airway
Nasal obstruction
Having a family history of sleep apnea
Male gender
Being overweight
Over the age of forty

What are the symptoms of Sleep Apnea?
Excessive daytime sleepiness, including falling asleep at inappropriate times
Awakening unrefreshed in the morning
Depression (possibly)
Poor concentration
Loud snoring
Observed episodes of breathing cessation
Awakening with a dry mouth or sore throat
Morning headaches
Difficulty staying asleep
What are the Effects of Sleep Apnea?
If left untreated, sleep apnea can result in a growing number of health problems including:
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Stroke
Heart failure, irregular heart beats, and heart attacks
Impotence

In addition, untreated sleep apnea may be responsible for poor performance in everyday activities, such as at work and school, motor vehicle crashes, as well as academic underachievement in children and adolescents

There are many treatment options available for sleep apnea.

To learn more about sleep apnea, set up appointment to be monitored for sleep apnea or to discuss treatment options please contact Rochester Advanced Dentistry at 248.656.2020

Whats eating your teeth?

2011-01-17T03:55:00.000-08:00

Your teeth are made out of enamel, this is the strongest material in your body.

What could have the ability to put holes in this very strong material? Acid.

The holes that I am referring to are cavities or decay. A cavity starts when an area of the tooth is weakend by an acid, once the initial breakdown is started it is easier for bacteria and other acids to attack the tooth and spread deeper into the tooth.

This process is more complicated then this simplified explanation but the short and sweet version is:

You eat food, or drink a beverage (esentially everything has sugar in it with the exception of water. Milk has lactose, apples have fructose- you can't completely illiminate the sugar)

To break down the food your body produces acid,the acid begins to breakdown your enamel

Your saliva rushes in to wash away the food and neutralize the acid

If any of these factors go haywire decay starts to appear

If you eat and/or sip drinks all day the sugar and acid are allowed to remain on your teeth for longer periods of time allowing them to do more damage

If your body is allowing too much acid in contact with you teeth-AKA acid reflux it starts to break down tooth structure

If you don't have adequete saliva, "dry mouth" your body isn't able to neutralize the acid

Other factors that effect the decay process

Home care: If you aren't brushing and flossing daily food and bacteria are allowed to sit on the teeth and eat away at it
Poor dental restorations: If you have failing dental work it is the perfect place for bacteria to hide and eat away at your tooth.

Beverage - Acid*(Low = Bad ) Sugar (per 12 oz.Serving )

Pure Water 7 (neutral) - 0 tsp
Barq's Root Beer 4 - 11 tsp
Orange Juice 3.8 - 9 tsp
Propel Fitness Water 3.4 - 1 tsp
Red Bull 3.3 - 10 tsp
Sprite 3.3 - 10 tsp
Mountain Dew 3.3 - 12 tsp
Diet Coke 3.1 - 0 tsp
Gatorade 2.9 - 12 tsp
Sobe Energy Citrus 2.6 - 12 tsp
Lemonade 2.6 - 10 tsp
Pepsi 2.5 - 11 tsp
Battery Acid 1 - 0 tsp

For additional information visit http://www.rochesteradvanceddentistry.com/

Why Your Dentist May be the Most Important Dr You See This Year

2011-01-14T09:00:00.000-08:00

The days of a dental cleaning consisting of a quick "buff and polish" are over.
Today's dental visit is more like a physical. Many findings during a dental visit can have a major impact on your overall health:

1)Blood Pressure
At every cleaning appointment your blood pressure is taken. High blood pressure is a sign
that your heart is working too hard. If your blood pressure it too high a visit to your medical
doctor is suggested

2) Oral cancer detection
At every dental cleaning appointment a thorough oral cancer screening is conducted. Oral
cancers are on the rise and are easier to treat and survive the earlier they are detected

3) Sleep apnea diagnosis
Sleep apnea is a serious condition where a person stops breathing while sleeping.Your dentist
may suspect that you suffer from sleep apnea, at Rochester Advanced Dentistry we are able
to test you for sleep apnea as well as offer treatment options

4) Infection
Dental infections if left untreated can spread into the deeper tissues of the face and neck.
This kind of infection can be life threatening

5) Gingivitis and Periodontitis
Mild gum infections, called gingivitis, may lead to red swollen gums, it can advance into
periodontitis which is a chronic infection that destroy bone around the teeth. If the bacteria
associated with this disease enters the blood stream it can cause infection in the heart.

6) Pregnancy
If you are pregnant or thinking about getting pregnant good oral health is especially
important as many dental problems can cause problems with the pregnancy including
preterm and/ or low birth weight babies

To schedule an appointment at Rochester Advanced Dentistry call 248.656.2020

Want to live longer? FLOSS!

2011-01-13T09:19:00.000-08:00

In today's society we are rushed, stressed and over committed, it comes as no surprise that we are all looking for ways we can save time. Many of my patients feel that they just don't have time to floss- while this seems like a valid excuse it turns out you may actually have less time on your hands if you don't floss.

If you start flossing today you could add up to 6 years onto your life!

6 years would be an additional 3.1 million minutes

Lets say you are a really slow flosser and it takes you 5 minutes a day

Lets say you floss every single day of your 100 year life- you would spend 182,500 minutes flossing

This would leave you with an additional 5.6 years to do whatever you want!

The risk of heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory disease is significantly higher in people who have periodontal disease which can be a result of poor home care including inadequate flossing.

Oral Cancer linked to HPV

2011-01-13T06:38:00.000-08:00

In years past smoking has been the number one cause of oral cancer. Over the past 10 years the number of people smoking has been on a steady decline while the number or new oral cancer victims has been holding steady if not increasing.
It has now been established that there is another major causative agent in oral cancer; HPV.

The human papilloma virus (HPV) is one of the most common virus groups and it affects skin and mucosa. There are over 120 different types, most are very harmless and easily treatable.
Two types are known to cause a vast majority of cervical cancers.

In the oral environment HPV 16 is linked to oral cancer.
It typically manifests in the back of the throat, at the base of the tongue and tonsil area.
This cancer is effecting a younger group of individuals then we saw with tobacco related cancer.

The CDC is recommending
ANYONE OLD ENOUGH TO HAVE ENGAGED IN SEXUAL BEHAVIORS NEEDS TO BE SCREENED ANNUALLY FOR ORAL CANCER

Oral cancer is easier to treat and survive the earlier it is detected.

To schedule a dental exam including an oral cancer screening please contact Rochester Advanced Dentistry 248.656.2020

Why Choose an Electric Toothbrush?

2011-01-12T08:02:00.000-08:00

The majority of dental problems people experience including cavities, gingivitis, and bad breath are caused by the presence of "plaque" or bacteria that lives in the mouth. This bacteria gets more aggressive and harder to remove the longer it is left undisturbed.

For many patients dental cleaning are scheduled twice a year. As soon as the cleaning is completed the bacteria begins to rebuild in your mouth.

So how do we keep the bacteria under control the other 363 days a year?

Good Home Care is the Answer!

Flossing at least once a day to remove bacteria and food from in between the teeth
Using a tongue scraper to remove bacteria from crevices
Brushing at least twice a day for at least two minutes

In recent years electric toothbrushes have proven to be superior to manual tooth brushes.
In studies electric tooth brushes have shown to remove 11% more plaque, reduced gingivitis by 6% and decreased bleeding which is a sign of infection by 17%.

The drastic improvement in oral health can be attributed to a few factors:

The bristles of electric tooth brushes move much faster then the human hand, the faster moving bristles are more likely to remove more plaque and break up more tenacious bacteria
A good electric tooth will have a timer that alerts you when you have been brushing for the recommended time
For children compliance is often better with electric toothbrushes
For children and elderly patients or patients with medical conditions that effect dexterity electric toothbrushes are often able to clean hard to reach areas more effectively

Periodontal Disease

2010-10-22T10:16:00.000-07:00

Periodontal disease is a condition that results in the loss of bone around the teeth. If left untreated it can lead to tooth loss and contribute to numerous health problems including heart disease, preterm low weight babies and stroke.

Causes/ contributing factors of periodontal disease include:

-poor oral hygiene

-smoking

-genetic factors

-diabetes

-osteoporosis

-occlusal disease

-faulty dental restorations

How is periodontal disease diagnosed?

A periodontal screening should be conducted at every dental appointment. A documentation of the current status of your teeth and the surrounding structures is noted.
We carefully measure the bone support and tissue height around each tooth allowing us to identify any abnormal changes as soon as possible allowing us to intervine and stop any further changes.

Patients may notice bleeding gum tissue, bad breath or loose teeth.

Treatment options for periodontal disease:

-More frequent cleanings/ deep cleanings

-Laser treatments

-Gum surgery

If you would like any additional information about laser cleanings please contact Rochester Advanced Dentistry 248.656.2020