Dr Michael Rogers

Stop Being So Darned Sensitive !

2011-04-19T12:12:00.000-07:00

We’ve all noticed it from time to time – have some ice cream followed by good hot coffee and OUCH! – Your tooth is telling you not to do that! But how do you know if your tooth sensitivity is a sign of (pardon the pun) a deep rooted problem?

Let’s start with a little quiz. What is the hardest substance in the human body?

a) Fingernails

b) The thigh bone, also known as the femur

c) Your hard-headed uncle’s skull

d) Tooth enamel

If you guessed tooth enamel, you’re not only on your way to a winning appearance on Jeopardy but you’re ready to understand tooth sensitivity.

The enamel that covers your teeth is an extremely hard substance and acts as a great protectant. Inside the enamel is something called dentin, which is a bit softer and actually has small hollow tubes leading right into the nerve chamber. Irritate that layer and your tooth will let you know! So if the enamel on your teeth is worn away, sensitivity can set in. The roots of your teeth are in a similar situation, and receding gums which cause the roots to be uncovered can cause sensitivity as well. So what can you do?

First of all, be gentle when you brush and always use a soft toothbrush. Lots of pressure and stiff bristles don’t clean your teeth any better and actually can wear away enamel and gums.

Some people find that acidic foods such as citrus fruits and tomatoes can cause sensitivity, so avoid those if you are in that category.

Also, there are over-the-counter products, such as special toothpastes and rinses; that can help. Let us know and we’ll be glad to recommend the right one for you.

Unfortunately, many of the causes of tooth sensitivity are also signs of much larger dental problems. Things such as cavities, defective fillings or crowns, receding gums due to gum disease, grinding, and many other conditions can cause sensitivity and all of these things definitely need attention from a dental professional.

At Fairlington Dental we want you to be comfortable and have healthy teeth and gums! If tooth sensitivity or any other dental issues are causing you concern, please give us a call at 703-671-1001 and we will be glad to see how we can help. We want to get you comfortable again!

Overdue For Relaxation? Take A Break At Your Dentist!

2011-03-22T12:34:00.000-07:00

Sedation Dentistry offers patients the ability to conquer their fear of the dentist. If you break into a cold sweat when someone mentions the word ‘dentist’, Sedation Dentistry may be the solution you’ve been waiting for. Best of all – no needles! It’s all accomplished with a pill.

Many adults today, continue to put off seeing the dentist; some for up to several years. This is generally the case due to the fear and discomfort generally associated with dental restorations. Sedation Dentistry offers the solution to patients suffering from dental anxiety.

You may benefit from Sedation Dentistry if you;

- Dislike dental Injections
- Detest the noise of dental equipment - drills, suction hoses, etc.
- Gag easily and hate the taste during dental procedures
- Have sensitive teeth
- Cannot handle pain well

-Dislike the smell associated with a dental practice

-Are unable to get numb for procedures

- If you need to undergo a complex dental procedure or a treatment that will consume a long period of time

Sedation dentistry enables patients who have a fear of the dentist to undergo dental treatment. Most patients, who have utilized Sedation Dentistry during a procedure, have no memory of their treatment. Sedation Dentistry can be highly beneficial to patients who have deferred seeing a dentist, yet wish to attain healthy teeth and gums.

So, if this sounds familiar or if your spouse, parent, or friend has been avoiding the dentist because of fear or time constraints, please let them know about Sedation Dentistry. It’s changing lives and smiles daily!

Worried About Gum Disease? Would You Prefer Cabernet Or Merlot?

2010-09-21T06:35:00.000-07:00

Cabernet or Merlot - More benefits than you think!

For many years now scientists have linked the beneficial positive effects of moderate amounts of red wine consumption with prevention of heart disease and cancer. But now they have also discovered that drinking the fruit of the vine could help with the prevention of gum disease!

The heroes here are compounds called polyphenols (found in grape seeds and red wine) which appear to have very strong anti-inflammatory properties. By reducing inflammation, it is theorized that polyphenols may limit the amount of inflammation in the gum tissue, helping to prevent the common disease known as gingivitis.

"Our findings demonstrate that red wine polyphenols have potent antioxidant properties," concluded the study authors from the Université Laval in Quebec, Canada, who presented the study at a meeting of the American Association for Dental Research.

Eighty percent of Americans have some type of gum disease, and it is estimated that 15 percent of Americans between the age of 21 and 50 suffer from an advanced form of gum disease known as periodontitis. After age 50, 65 percent of Americans will suffer from this chronic gum disease and the risk is higher in smokers, diabetics and people who take steroids and oral contraceptives.

The author of the study, Dr. Fatiha Chandad, stated that more investigation is needed to determine exactly how effective the beverage will be in fighting gum disease. "Consumption of any fruits or vegetables rich in polyphenols could have beneficial effects on the maintenance of good oral health," she adds.

So should you drink up now and not worry about proper brushing, flossing, and visits with your dental hygienist? We sure don’t think so! But it is nice to know that red wine enjoyed in moderation could have a positive effect on your dental health.

At Fairlington Dental, we take your oral health very seriously and want to make sure that gum disease does not rob you of your teeth as it has done to millions of Americans. We check for this condition every single time we do an examination. If you are due to see us or have any questions about gum disease or any other condition, please give us a call right away at 703-671-1001. We’re here for you!

And remember – along with the possible positive effects of red wine, it can really stain your teeth!! Brush and floss often and don’t forget your professional cleanings!!

Sleep Apnea Linked to Heart Disease | National Sleep Foundation - Information on Sleep Health and Safety

2010-09-08T06:34:00.000-07:00

Sleep Apnea Linked to Heart Disease National Sleep Foundation - Information on Sleep Health and Safety

Sleep Apnea Linked to Heart Disease | National Sleep Foundation - Information on Sleep Health and Safety

2010-09-08T06:33:00.000-07:00

Sleep Apnea Linked to Heart Disease National Sleep Foundation - Information on Sleep Health and Safety

Stop Being So Darn Sensitive !

2010-07-09T05:58:00.000-07:00

We've all noticed it from time to time - have some ice cream followed by good cup of hot coffee and OUCH! - your tooth is telling you not to do that! But how do you know if your tooth sensitivity is a sign of (pardon the pun) a deep rooted problem?

Let's start with a little quiz. What is the hardest substance in the human body?

a) Fingernails
b) The thigh bone, also known as the femur
c) Your hard-headed uncle's skull'
d) Tooth enamel

If you guessed tooth enamel, you're not only on your way to a winning appearance on Jeopardy but you're ready to understand tooth sensitivity.

The enamel that covers your teeth is an extremely hard substance and acts as a great protectant. Inside the enamel is something called dentin, which is a bit softer and actually has small hollow tubes leading right into the nerve chamber. Irritate that layer and your tooth will let you know! So if the enamel on your teeth is worn away, sensitivity can set in. The roots of your teeth are in a similar situation, and receding gums which cause the roots to be uncovered can cause sensitivity as well. So what can you do?

First of all, be gentle when you brush and always use a soft toothbrush. Lots of pressure and stiff bristles do not clean your teeth any better and actually can wear away enamel and gums.

Some people find that acidic foods such as citrus fruits and tomatoes can cause sensitivity, so avoid those if you are in that category.

Also, there are over-the-counter products, such as special toothpastes and rinses, that can help. Let us know and we'll be glad to recommend the right one for you.

Unfortunately, many of the causes of tooth sensitivity are also signs of much larger dental problems. Things such as cavities, defective fillings, or crowns, receding gums due to gum disease, grinding, and many other conditions can cause sensitivity and all of these things definitely need attention from a dental professional.

At Fairlington Dental we want you to be comfortable and have healthy teeth and gums! If tooth sensitivity or any other dental issues are causing you concern, please give us a call at 703-671-1001 and we will be glad to see how we can help. For additional information, visit our website at www.FairlingtonDental.com

We want to get you comfortable again!

The Forgotten Cancer - Have You Been Checked?

2010-06-30T06:13:00.000-07:00

Much has been written about early detection for certain cancers, such as breast and colon and while, of course, screening for these cancers is crucial, there is one cancer that often seems to be “forgotten” in the midst of all the media uproar and that is -- oral cancer.

For many, oral cancer does not even truly show up on their radar and, this could potentially be harmful to you and your loved ones, as it has been estimated that approximately 36,000 Americans are diagnosed each year and of those 8,000 will die.

Unfortunately, those numbers are quite high and it is mainly due to the fact that in many, many cases, the diagnosis was made in the advanced stages of the cancer. In fact, the total number of deaths, from oral cancer never really seems to decrease because it is rarely diagnosed in its early stages.

It is, therefore, crucial that everyone be screened, on a regular basis, for oral cancer and your dentist can be your best ally.

Scheduling at least two dental visits each year for your regular check ups and cleanings can be the perfect time to ask your dentist to thoroughly check the inside of your mouth for any signs and/or symptoms that may be developing.

Your dentist can quickly and efficiently do a thorough exam to make sure that your gums, tongue and mouth are free of sores and masses and it is entirely pain free. Your dentist truly can be one of your greatest allies in the fight against disease – so don’t hesitate to talk with him/her about your concerns and your needs.

Don’t forget that eating a balanced diet, staying away from tobacco (especially chewing tobacco) and alcohol will also go a long way in keeping you healthy and happy.

Dear Patient - Are You Missing A Critical Step In Your Daily Routine?

2010-04-20T05:22:00.000-07:00

Recent research has shown that most Americans are not doing a simple activity that will keep their smiles looking beautiful, reduce cavities, prevent tooth loss and as many dentists and physicians now believe – significantly reduce the chance of heart disease and strokes.

Even though most of our patients swear they do this activity, according to The American Dental Association, more than 90% of Americans don’t. That simple activity? You guessed it – it’s flossing your teeth. And a quick and strenuous attempt to floss right before your dental visit doesn’t fool us! But please read on, because there is hope for everyone!!

Flossing is the best way to clean bacteria and debris from the spaces in between your teeth and underneath your gums. Left in place, that harmful film can cause cavities and gum disease, eating away at the bone that actually holds your teeth in place and causing your teeth to loosen and eventually be lost. Scarier yet – recent research has linked gum disease to heart disease and strokes. So don’t throw in the towel (or floss!) yet.

Any activity requires practice. You couldn’t drive without lessons and a few thousand miles on the road. You couldn’t type the first time you sat down at a keyboard. And though flossing is much easier than either of those activities, many people try it a few times and then frustratingly proclaim “I can’t floss!” Well with a little patience and practice you can! And some of the better flosses on the market (such as “Glide”) make it much easier than it was in the past.

At Fairlington Dental we really want you to keep your teeth the rest of your life and be as healthy as you possibly can. That definitely involves flossing every single day – and we know you can do it! Feel free to give us a call at 703-671-1001 and we will arrange for one of our fantastic hygienists to give you a flossing lesson or just ask during one of your regular cleaning appointments. There is nothing to be embarrassed about, and your beautiful smile can last a lifetime!

For additional information, visit our website at http://www.fairlingtondental.com/

Beware: Silver Fillings Are Actually Mercury Fillings

2010-04-07T06:34:00.000-07:00

For many people, going to the dentist’s office every 6 months, to get a regular check up and cleaning has been something that we have done religiously. After all, investing in good oral care is the best way to ensure that you keep both your pearly whites and your smile for a long time to come.

As it turns out, scientists are now finding that good oral hygiene can go a long way when it comes to ensuring your overall health. However, one area that has arisen some concerns is with one of the components used in teeth fillings – mercury. Silver fillings actually contain more mercury than silver. There have been substantial studies conducted on the effects of having this component in our mouths and, while there may not be 100% conclusive evidence about the health risks associated, many dentists are now using alternative components when it comes to filling those cavities. As a matter of fact, more and more dentists are also suggesting that “old” fillings be replaced with “new” ones in order to remove all potential health concerns.

While this may sound somewhat scary, there is absolutely no need for worry as getting those old fillings removed by a qualified dentist is extremely simple and effective. You are encouraged to discuss mercury removal procedures with your own dentist in order to gain a better understanding of the situation. If your dentist does not believe your fillings need to be removed, you might want to consider consulting with one who specializes in this type of procedure.

A dentist that is specialized in this area can thoroughly explain your options and will be happy to answer any of your questions. While mercury fillings have yet to be deemed toxic by the medical profession, considering healthier, more natural components for your fillings is absolutely a smart move - as well as a very simple and effective one!

Just Like The Real Thing! - Flash Your Pearly Whites Again!

2010-03-26T11:39:00.000-07:00

Thanks to today’s advancement in dental procedures and care, the use of implants has become more and more recognized as “the” most viable, efficient and practical method of tooth replacement.

Simply put, implants are artificial tooth roots that replace an missing tooth - these implants are, for all intents and purposes, identical to the “real” tooth, in that they look and perform exactly like the real one and this is thanks to modern technology that allows the dental surgeon to actually place the tooth directly into the bone.

Implants are now used to support dentures and crowns and this process can be applied for one tooth or for a series – depending on the requirements of the patient. Implants are extremely versatile and can be made to accommodate any situation as needed.

Amazingly, the patients, for the most part, get accustomed to these new implants quickly, easily and without any major discomfort and, of course, because the implants look exactly like “the real thing”, many people have also reported a huge increase in personal confidence – finally being able to flash that beautiful smile without worrying about “what their teeth look like”.

Thanks to modern technology and, of course, to those wonderful dentists who actually come up with these breakthroughs – flashing those pearly whites is now something that you can do with pride (again!).

Two Very Frequently Asked Questions at Fairlington Dental

2010-03-18T04:56:00.000-07:00

Here are two of the most frequent questions we are asked at Fairlington Dental:

The first one is “Do you see children here?” and the answer is a resounding “YES! We love kids!”

The second is “When should I schedule my child’s first dental visit?” and the answer to that one is: “Between the age of 3 and 5 unless a problem arises earlier!”

Many times a child’s first dental visit involves just a quick peek at their teeth, wiping the teeth and gums with a piece of gauze and giving them a ride up and down in the dental chair. Of course everyone will tell them how good they are and how much fun it is to see the dentist - and that may be the most important part of the visit!

Studies have shown that many people avoid visiting the dentist purely out of fear – and we want to make sure that for the up and coming generation that is a thing of the past. With so many modern ways to make dentistry more comfortable, there simply is no reason to be afraid! But unfortunately, television shows and movies continue to depict things in a negative light. At Fairlington Dental, it is our goal to let children (and adults!) know that dental health is a comfortable, important and even fun part of our overall well being.

Here are a few more easy and important tips to pass along to those with infants or older children:

• Never nurse a baby to sleep or allow them to go to sleep with a bottle. This can cause a very harmful and serious form of cavities. If a baby must go to sleep with a bottle, only water should be used.

• Use a small-headed soft bristle toothbrush with a small amount of fluoridated toothpaste to clean your child’s teeth. Do it twice a day, and always before bedtime.

• Even though they will eventually be lost, “baby teeth” are very important. Not only do they help children to speak and chew, they also set a straight path for the permanent teeth to erupt. If they are lost prematurely, the adult teeth can be compromised.

• Sealants are a fast, easy and effective way to prevent cavities. Be sure to ask us if your child is ready for them.

At Fairlington Dental, we strive to provide the best and most comfortable treatment possible for patients of all ages. Should you have any questions about children’s dental care – or anything else – feel free to give us a call at 703-671-1001 or visit our website at www.FairlingtonDental.com .

Mercury Fillings - Are They Affecting Your Health?

2010-03-10T05:31:00.000-08:00

For over 100 years, dental fillings were silver. It is easy to work with and quite resilient. In recent years, dental professionals have realized the negative effects of silver fillings and the mercury contained within them. Silver fillings are almost 50% mercury, which is one of the most dangerous non-radioactive substances on earth.
Studies have shown that mercury releases an invisible gas from silver fillings, which can harm the immune system and cause developmental disorders.

For assurance of one's well-being, mercury-free fillings and mercury removal need to be a priority.

If You Have Silver Fillings:

Patients who already have silver fillings should talk to their dentist about safe amalgam removal. Amalgam is an alloy of mercury and silver, which is used in fillings. Once the decision is made to have the fillings replaced, the patient should be sure to talk with a dentist who is experienced and knowledgeable about removing mercury fillings, so that the procedure is done safely and correctly, leaving nothing dangerous behind. A biological dentist is skilled in tasks such as these. When choosing a dentist, the patient should ask about the procedure, ensuring that the dentist is careful to use a vacuum instrument to catch any amalgam pieces that come loose, use a lot of rinse water to dilute any residue, and take the filling in the largest pieces possible to prevent mercury “shrapnel” or excess mercury vapor from being released. Once removed, the fillings can be replaced with safe, tooth-colored composite, porcelain, or even gold.

Planning Ahead for Safe Dentistry:

When seeking a dentist for you and your family, it is important to be proactive and seek out a biological dentist, one who is aware of the health issues of the entire body, and how dental care affects one's entire well-being. Biological dentists understand the impact of toxic elements on the health of the body and specialize in mercury-free fillings and dental treatment. Not only is the use of composite resin fillings safer, but they also are less noticeable and are not metallic tasting. Additionally, often less tooth needs to be removed in order to bond the resin to the tooth in comparison with the procedure for silver fillings.

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

http://www.dentalwellness4u.com/
http://www.mercuryfreenow.com/
http://www.iaomt.com/

Your Best Friends Won’t Tell You (or Ewwww…..That Smell!!)

2010-02-16T05:06:00.000-08:00

A common question we get in our dental office is –

“What causes bad breath?”

Many times the complaint is not from the offender but from a long suffering spouse or family member. There are many causes of bad breath (which we call “halitosis”) – some serious and some not. And while many people have decided to just hold their nose and live with it, the good news is diagnosing and treating bad breath is something that can easily be done.

Here is a list, in no particular order, of the reasons people may be slowly backing up during conversations:

• Foods Containing Pungent Oils

Yes – garlic and onions are very healthy, but they also contain oils which may cause an unhealthy reaction to those around you. These odors come from the lungs, last up to 72 hours and can be tough to cover up. Mints, gum and rinses are your best bet – or make sure everyone around you has had the same yummy food as well!

• Routine Illnesses

Colds, sore throats, coughs and sinus infections all cause yucky smelling mucus (or snot, depending on your age), to get trapped in our mouths, throats and noses, which causes foul breath until the illness is taken care of. Of course, if you have one of these highly contagious problems you shouldn’t be that close to someone anyway! If a sinus infection, sore throat, cough or cold doesn’t clear up in a few days to a week, you should probably see your physician to make sure things aren’t of a serious nature.

• Dry Mouth

A dry mouth lets dead cells accumulate on your gums, tongue and cheeks. And while morning breath is a perfectly normal phenomenon due to lowered salivary activity at night – it shouldn’t last all day. Those who snore, mouth-breath, take certain medications, or even have lasted into middle age are prone to a dry mouth.

• Smoking

Smoking dries out your mouth (see above) and also, tobacco just plain stinks. If lung cancer and heart disease aren’t reason enough to give up the ciggies, maybe a constant foul mouth will help you make that life-saving decision.

• Chronic Diseases or Conditions

Many serious diseases such as lung infections, kidney failure, diabetes, cancer, GERD, anorexia, bulimia and others can cause very specific types of halitosis. The good news is that these are on the rare side, but if anything along these lines is suspected, a referral to the appropriate practitioner is in order.

• Poor Dental Hygiene and Gum Disease

Ahhh… this is our favorite! Not because we like people to have poor dental hygiene and gum disease, but because these are very common causes of bad breath and we can usually treat them quite easily. But please don’t wait too long! Gum disease, which usually starts with poor brushing and flossing habits as well as a lack of routine dental visits, can do much more than make your mouth stinky.

In just a short period of time, gum disease can advance and eat away at the gums and bone which hold your teeth in place. The result? Loose, unstable teeth which will eventually be lost if not treated. Catching gum disease early is great as treatment is typically conservative. Wait too long and it gets much more difficult and extensive.

Bad breath is not normal! Seeing your dentist and dental hygienist on a routine basis is your best bet for making sure your teeth and gums stay healthy, your smile stays bright, and your breath doesn’t cause others to run in the opposite direction.

If you have any questions about this or any other topic concerning you or someone you care about, please feel free to visit our website @ http://www.fairlingtondental.com/ or simply give us a call at 703-671-1001. Dr. Michael Rogers and his fantastic team are here to help you!

Invisalign - A Clear Alternative to Metal Braces

2009-09-23T05:52:00.000-07:00

If you have always had crooked teeth, but have never had traditional braces for one reason or another and are now finally ready to do something about it, consider Invisalign to straighten your teeth. Or perhaps you did have braces as a teen but now your teeth are starting to drift back to their old position.

Many professionals are turning to Invisalign to give them that great smile they always wanted, yet doesn't make them look like a kid just starting out. Face it; traditional braces with their multi-colored rubber bands and the shiny tin grin just don't look very professional. In a world where looks can be the difference between getting the promotion, and possibly losing your job, you have to be careful. Invisalign is completely unnoticeable by anyone but your own self. Completely clear, your teeth will be straightened and nobody will be the wiser.

Invisalign consists of several aligners that are crystal clear and custom made for your teeth. They are very comfortable and generally remove with ease after a little practice. Ask your dental practitioner for any tips to removal as soon as you put the first aligner in place, before you leave the office.

Invisalign has many advantages, other than cosmetic, over traditional braces. Because they can be removed, cleaning your teeth is much easier. With traditional braces, you absolutely cannot floss your teeth and end of relying on water being flushed between the braces and your teeth to get them as clean as possible. Even brushing after every meal can still lead to gum disease with traditional braces. Simply remove the Invisalign aligner, and brush and floss your teeth. You do have to remove the aligner when you are eating, so brushing after meals simply becomes routine.

Invisalign aligners are switched out approximately every two weeks. Every aligner is different, and works in different ways to bring your teeth into line as quickly and efficiently as possible. You do have to wear them as specified or your treatment will be slowed down a great deal. However, an additional benefit to Invisalign braces is that is you have a very special occasion to attend, you can take them out for the few hours you need to.

Invisalign Teen is a great way for your teen to get their teeth straightened without being ostracized by his or her peers. To help make sure that your teen is wearing their aligners as they need to, they come with Blue Dot Wear Indicator that should fade to clear over a period of two weeks. This makes it easier for parents to track the time their teen is putting into straightening their teeth. Worried that your teen will lose the clear aligners? Fear not, Invisalign includes 6 replacement aligners to put your mind at ease. Many offices report that teens are even more compliant and responsible than most adult patients.

If you are considering braces for you or your child, talk to your dental professional and see if Invisalign is an option for you. Nobody will know that you are straightening your teeth, your teeth and gums will be healthier in the long run because they will be able to be cleaned properly, and you will find renewed confidence in yourself, as will your child.

Dr. Rogers is the owner of Fairlington Dental, located in Arlington, VA. Fairlington Dental strives for excellence in dentistry and in customer service. We actively listen to our patients needs prior to planning treatment, value their time, deliver highest quality dentistry in a comfortable environment and provide excellent value that exceeds expectations. We invest in continuing education for our entire team to ensure we can offer the best possible options for our patients.

Dr Michael B. Rogers

Website: http://www.fairlingtondental.com/

Email: drrogers@fairlingtondental.com

(703)671-1001

How Do I Prevent My Child From Being Afraid of The Dentist?

2009-09-21T06:44:00.001-07:00

A child's primary teeth, sometimes called "baby teeth", are as important as the permanent adult teeth. Primary teeth begin to appear when children are about 6 months old. These teeth help them chew and speak in addition to holding space in the jaws for permanent teeth that are developing under the gums. Most children have a full set of 20 primary teeth by the age of three. The primary teeth generally begin to fall out between ages five and six when the permanent or adult teeth begin to erupt.

You should begin brushing your child's teeth with water as soon as the first tooth appears. Using toothpaste is not recommended for children under the age of two, however, when toothpaste is introduced; only a pea-size amount should be used. Children should always be supervised while brushing to ensure they are doing a good job. Brushing your own teeth alongside your child is a good way to instill this healthy habit.

A child's first dental visit should be between the ages of three and five years of age. For a child not familiar with the dentist, the first visit can be very scary. Their first dental appointment should be a positive experience and the preparation for this visit can begin at home. There are many publications available to help you explain to your child what to expect at the dentist. One such publication is "Show Me Your Smile", book number 11 in the Dora the Explorer series. It provides a thorough, non-scary, explanation of everything to expect at the first dental visit.

As a parent, you can help your child maintain a lifelong healthy smile by providing them with a well-balanced diet, limiting sugary snacks, ensuring that they brush twice per day, and floss once per day. It is also very important to schedule regular dental checkups every six months.

www.FairlingtonDental.com

(703)671-1001

"My Back Hurts - Could it Be TMJ?"

2009-09-17T12:45:00.000-07:00

TemporoMandibular Joint Dysfunction, often called TMJ or TMD, is known as the "great imposter" because so many symptoms that patient complain of can be related to this disorder. The list of possible TMD symptoms include back pain, dizziness, ear congestion, ear pain, eye pain, facial pain, fatigue, headaches, jaw clicking or popping, jaw locking, migraines, muscle twitching, neck pain, ringing in ears, shoulder pain, sinus congestion, and many others.
Acute trauma to the jaw joint will usually result in pain in and around the joint. Most dentists are able to treat this type of trauma with hot and cold compresses, soft diet, jaw exercises, and anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen. Patients with chronic jaw joint problems, on the other hand, rarely have pain in the joint. Instead, they tend to complain of neckaches, headaches, backaches, ear congestion or pain, and even numbness and tingling in the fingertips. This article will help explain how TMD is related to these seemingly unrelated symptoms.

The nervous system of the human body consists of two parts. The voluntary nervous system is the one you control with your brain. If you want to throw a ball, all you do is think about moving your arm and the necessary muscles work in a coordinated fashion to make it happen. The involuntary nervous system is the part that controls everything else. Most people are aware that it controls things such as your heartbeat, breathing, and digestion, but it also controls all the muscles you don't think about. When you raise your arm to throw a ball, the muscles on the other side of your body also contract to keep you in balance. You don't have to think about it; it just happens.

The main goal of the involuntary nervous system is to keep you alive. This requires placing more importance on certain areas of the body than others. If you fall down, your hands automatically go out to protect your head from hitting the ground. Better to have a broken arm or wrist than a brain injury. Likewise, if you have a splinter in your left foot your body automatically places more weight on your right foot. If you don't remove the splinter, eventually your right foot would start to hurt because it is overcompensating for the injured foot.

Patients with TMD usually have irritated jaw joints, which is similar to having a splinter in your foot. Whether due to a bad bite, a slipped disk, or trauma to the joints, the only way the body can take the pressure off the joints without consciously thinking about it is to change the head position. Try this simple exercise: Open your mouth, look up at the ceiling, then close your mouth and notice which teeth touch first. Next, open your mouth, look at the floor, and close your mouth and notice, which teeth touch first. For most people, it's quite different, and one position is usually more comfortable than the other. Naturally, you can't walk around all day looking at the ceiling or at the floor, but the body can figure out a way to change the bite while your head is level. By holding the head in a different position (usually forward), the bite changes just enough to take the pressure off the irritated jaw joint. In order to do this, however, the neck and shoulder muscles must be constantly contracted to keep the head from falling over. Better to have sore neck muscles than be unable to chew or talk.

The human head weighs about as much as a bowling ball. Imagine holding a bowling ball in the starting position, close to your body with your forearm straight up and down. You could probably hold the ball like this for quite a long time. Now imagine moving the ball about six inches away from your body. How long do you think it would take for your arm muscles to become sore or irritated? Of course, you could use your other arm to hold up the first one, but eventually the other arm would become tired as well. In fact, if you could hold the ball up long enough, your shoulders would start to hurt, your back muscles might cramp, and even your feet may become tired because of the awkward position of your body.

By now you might be starting to connect the dots as to why TMD patients have so many seemingly unrelated symptoms such as headaches, neckaches, backaches, and shoulder pain. Holding the head in the forward position to protect the jaw joint requires a lot of tension in the neck and back muscles. This constant tension also compresses the nerves that pass through these muscles, so some TMD patients also suffer from shoulder pain and even numbness or tingling in the fingers. In order to maintain balance and not fall forward, the body may also compensate by rotating the hips, resulting in lower back pain, and flaring the feet out, resulting in foot pain.

Sometimes holding the head forward is not possible or is not enough to change the bite, and the joint remains painful as well. In certain cases the jaw position puts pressure on the ears, causing ear pain and even hearing loss. Sometimes the extra stress on the nervous system causes other unrelated problems to flare up, such as allergies, sinus problems, and eyelid twitching. And in many cases, the chronic pain combined with the stress can lead to depression and mood swings.

A dentist trained in TMD treatment that relieves the stress on the jaw joints has the potential to relieve most if not all of the above symptoms. If the symptoms have been long standing, however, other health care providers such as chiropractors, osteopathic physicians, physical therapists, and massage therapists may be needed for complete relief. And in certain cases, the "TMD symptoms" may not be due to the jaw joints at all. Back and neck disorders can also cause the same symptoms as TMD. In these cases, TMD treatment will be of limited benefit and your dentist may be able to refer you to the appropriate health care provider.

If you suffer from any of the symptoms listed in this article, it may be worth your while to have your dentist perform a TMD screening. I speak from personal experience; I suffered from lower back pain and numbness in the fingers for many years, potentially a career ending condition for a dentist. I never believed I had TMD because my jaw joints never hurt. With the proper diagnosis and treatment of my TMD, however, I have now been pain free for over two years, and continue to practice dentistry with no numbness in my fingers.

Dr Michael B. Rogers

Website: http://www.fairlingtondental.com/

Email: drrogers@fairlingtondental.com

Phone: (703) 671-1001

Do You Or Someone You Know Snore?

2009-09-14T09:30:00.000-07:00

If you have had complaints about your snoring, or find you''re tired and have no energy, it may be due to SDB which can lead to many serious health problems. Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB) is a category of sleep disorders also known as Sleep Apnea, the most common form of SDB is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).

Dentists trained in Dental Sleep Medicine work with patients and their primary care physicians to diagnose and develop treatment plans that include oral appliances, therapeutic treatments and sometimes surgery. Screening for OSA is convenient. In this section, you''ll find out how you can get your energy, health and life back on track! Using this information you can find out what treatments are available and what to expect . Don't delay, call your dentist for a consultation if you suspect you have Sleep Disordered Breathing. Studies show that Dental Solutions for SDB have an 81% success rate.

Patients with SDB display symptoms that need immediate treatment. Breathing actually stops many times during the night in patients with Apnea. Your Dentist is your first line of defense against loss of health when Apnea is diagnosed because Dental treatment options are successful in treating SDB. Snoring and SDB are not the same.

95% of SDB sufferers don't know they have it. Children and Adults can have SDB. There a several types of OSA, we'll talk about them in these sections.
Dentists play an important role in helping patients diagnose and find treatment for this group of disorders. SDB affects millions people, some estimates put the number at over 40 million that's 1 in 5! Find out if you have SDB.

When left untreated, SDB increases the chances of serious health risks leading to reduced quality of life and long-term health problems. Your Dentist and your primary care provider can help you find the right sleep study or lab to perform diagnostic testing for SDB.

When health-restoring sleep is lost, the risk for these health problems increases: Chronic Fatigue, Heart Attack, Strokes, Irritability, High Blood Pressure, Loss of Concentration .

Children with Apnea do not show the same symptoms as adults, for example they may not snore like adults do. When Apnea is left untreated in children, they suffer risks that may lead to: Slow Development Abnormal Growth Learning Problems Heart Problems

Do you or a loved one snore? Snoring can double or even triple the risk for a stroke.

"People with sleep apnea often don''t realize they have it, since they don't remember waking up again and again, gasping for breath. Frequently, someone else hears the choking and "industrial-strength snoring," says Klar Yaggi, a sleep specialist at Yale who led the study.
Fifty percent of middle-aged and older adults have the disorder to some degree due to throat muscles relaxing and closing off their airway as they sleep. They then wake up with a jolt, gasp for air, and fall back to sleep over and over again.

Additional treatments for sleep apnea include weight loss, the use of a breathing machine called a "Continuous Positive Airway Pressure" or "CPAP" machine, and wearing a custom-made device in the mouth to keep the airway open during sleep. The loss of weight and treatment by a doctor who treats sleep apnea can restore a good night''s sleep and eliminate considerable stress on your body from oxygen deprivation and adrenaline surges.

For more information about an evaluation for a dental sleep appliance, please call: 703.671-1001 or visit http://www.fairlingtondental.com/ for additional information.

Dr Michael B. Rogers

Website: http://www.fairlingtondental.com/

Email: drrogers@fairlingtondental.com

(703) 671-1001

Cosmetic Dentistry - Know All Of Your Options

2009-09-10T06:45:00.000-07:00

Various surveys report that when you meet someone for the first time, you notice their smile more than any other feature. This partly explains the huge interest in cosmetic dentistry in the past 10 years. Major advances in technology and techniques are the other side of the picture. With so much information available, deciphering this complex subject can be quite daunting, even for the average dentist. This article will help to clarify the subject by explaining the pros and cons of each option, so you can make an informed and intelligent decision about which option is best for you.

Cosmetic dentistry is often equated with porcelain veneers, perhaps due to the success of the extreme makeover shows. Veneers are a great option, but are by no means the only option. Cosmetic dentistry includes whitening, orthodontics (braces), dental implants, oral surgery, gum lifts, tooth colored fillings, and even a new set of dentures. And depending which type of dentist you go to, you may only be offered one or two of these options.

Let’s examine the following analogy: suppose you have a sore joint. If you go to an orthopedic surgeon, most likely surgery will be recommended. A chiropractor might suggest adjustments, a physical therapist would try physical therapy and exercises, a nutritionist might recommend glucosamine, and a pharmacist would recommend Advil or Aleve. All are appropriate treatments for sore joints, but not all would be appropriate for every patient. In fact, the best treatment might be a combination of several different modalities.

Now suppose you have a smile which needs improvement. A general dentist might recommend whitening and/or bonding, a cosmetic dentist will often recommend veneers, an orthodontist would certainly consider braces, and a surgeon or gum specialist may yet offer more solutions. And like the analogy, the best treatment may be a combination of several different approaches.

So let’s review the options available in the field of cosmetic dentistry and for each provide an idea of the risks, benefits, cost, and time involved.

WHITENING

Tooth whitening, sometimes referred to as bleaching, has been around for decades. The active ingredient in virtually all systems is some form of hydrogen peroxide, which has been shown to be completely safe for teeth and perhaps even beneficial to the gums. The major drawbacks to whitening are sensitivity and unpredictability. The major advantage is low cost. Various “whitening strips” can be purchased over the counter for around $40. They work well for light staining on otherwise normal, healthy teeth. Stock bleaching trays purchased over the Internet provide about the same level of whitening, but perhaps with more sensitivity. Custom bleaching trays provided by a dentist provide even better results, if you are willing to wear them every night for a few weeks. One-hour bleaching in a dental office or spa does the same or better job very quickly, but may also result in some short-lived sensitivity. The cost of in-office bleaching ranges from $400-$1,000, but the results are still variable. Some patients experience amazing results from these methods, while others are disappointed. For people with normal healthy teeth that would like predictable results, a system known as “Deep Bleaching” developed by dentist Rod Kurthy will deliver predictable results, even in deeply stained teeth. This system is a combination of in-office sessions and specialized take-home trays that gives amazing results every time. The cost of deep bleaching ranges from $1,200-$1,800, and there is very little or no sensitivity with this system. However, if your teeth have other issues in addition to color, then you will probably be looking at “permanent whitening”, also known as porcelain veneers.

PORCELAIN VENEERS AND CROWNS

Porcelain veneers are thin facings that are bonded to the front of your teeth to restore your smile. They can completely cover stains, as well as even out crooked teeth and make chipped teeth look like new. Traditional porcelain veneers require numbing of the teeth, and removal of the top stained layer to provide space for the new white porcelain layer. The results can be dramatic and immediate, and the veneers can last for decades. The drawbacks are high cost, sensitivity sometimes lasting for weeks or months, and irreversibility. But for certain cases the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages. If you prefer not to have your teeth numbed, another option is Lumineers. Lumineers are very thin porcelain veneers that don’t require numbing of the teeth in most cases, and no drilling into sensitive areas of the teeth. While they can’t correct everyone’s smile issues, they should at least be considered, especially for the nervous patient. Both Lumineers and traditional veneers are expensive, around $1,500-2,000 per tooth, but they can be completed in just a few visits. This makes them perfect for patients wanting “immediate gratification.”

Porcelain crowns are similar to traditional dental crowns, but do not contain any dark metals on the inside of the crown. For patients who are tired of the “dark line” around the gums of their crowned teeth, all-porcelain crowns are a fantastic alternative. The newer crowns are very strong and bonded to the tooth to prevent the cement wash-out that used to occur with traditional crowns. Porcelain crowns typically cost a bit more than traditional crowns, but are well worth the extra expense in any area where the edge of the crown shows.

ORTHODONTICS (BRACES)

If you don’t mind waiting some months for your new smile, orthodontics may be a much better option than porcelain veneers. For patients with nice looking natural teeth, just crooked or gapped, orthodontics is a more natural and cost-effective approach. Of course, in the field of cosmetic dentistry most adults do not want railroad track braces on their teeth, so manufacturers have developed “clear braces” where all you notice is a thin wire on the teeth. Plus, modern orthodontics has embraced the “low-force, low friction” philosophy, making braces much more comfortable than ever before. If the thought of braces still turns you off, then you should consider Invisalign (http://www.invisalignarlingtonva.com). Invisalign is a series of clear plastic trays, similar to bleaching trays, which gently move your teeth to their new, straight position. At an average treatment time of only 11 months, Invisalign is quicker and easier than traditional braces, plus there are no diet restrictions and no issues brushing and flossing. The disadvantage of Invisalign is the time involved, and the chance that porcelain veneers may still be needed to achieve the patient’s esthetic goals. The advantage is preservation of natural teeth, and relatively low cost at around $6,000 total.

DENTAL IMPLANTS

If you are missing some teeth, whitening, veneers and braces may not solve all your needs. In the past, missing teeth meant partial or full dentures, or sometimes a bridge. With recent advances in technology, we can now replace missing teeth with artificial teeth that look and feel just like natural teeth. And with a better than 95% success rate, implants have become almost routine in many dental practices. The advantages are obvious; the disadvantages are high initial cost and the need for minor surgery to place them. Over the long term dental implants may actually be less expensive than other options, since they potentially can last the rest of your life.

SURGERY

Most patients would prefer to avoid surgery, but sometimes it really is the best option. Gum surgery to improve a gummy smile, a chin implant to improve a receding chin, jaw surgery to correct a disfiguring overbite or cleft – these are situations where the other options just may not be enough. Surgery is often considered the last option, but in some cases the results are worth the risks.

THE COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH

The comprehensive approach utilizes all of the above options. Often this means combining two or more of the above treatment modalities. It starts with identifying the patient’s desired result, budget, lifestyle issues, and time frame. All of these factors can influence a patient’s decision about treatment and should be taken into consideration by the dentist.

Dr. Michael Rogers is a cosmetic dentist in Arlington, VA. His practice, Fairlington Dental, strives for excellence in dentistry and in customer service. We actively listen to our patients needs prior to planning treatment, value their time, deliver highest quality dentistry in a comfortable environment and provide excellent value that exceeds expectations. We invest in continuing education for our entire team to ensure we can offer the best possible options for our patients. For additional information, visit our website at www.FairlingtonDental.com or read what our patients have to say at www.dc.doctoroogle.com