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Dental Health News


 

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Dental Health News from Dr. Slotnick ...

News from the office of

Welcome!

Dr. Stephen Slotnick

Ring out the old, ring in the new,
Ring, happy bells, across the snow.
Cheers to the New Year
and another chance for us all to get it right!


For those of you who are not familiar with Chinese Astrology, 2008 is
"Year of the Rat". The Rat is the first sign of the Chinese Zodiac.

The sequence of the 12 astrological animals is:

In the "Year of the Rat" we can expect 12 months of plentiful
opportunities and prospects, not to mention being relatively
free of turbulence, which is great to know if you are planning on any
long term investments or starting new projects.

2008 is Year One of a sixty year cycle, the Earth Rat Year, and an
excellent opportunity for a new start. The powerful positive energy
in 2008 makes an ideal time for new beginnings!

It's the perfect time for you to focus on better health
for you and your family!

............ HAPPY

............. NEW

.............YEAR

FROM ALL OF US TO ALL OF YOU!

Look for the Special Offers only available in our Newsletter!

 

In this issue:

PAGE 2: Toothbrushes & Toothpastes - Facts You Should Know
.......... Dental Care For Your Pets?

PAGE 3: January, February & March Coupons
... ...... Leaping to February - "National Children's Dental Health Month"
.......... 6 Steps To A Better Smile
.......... Ask Dr. Slotnick
.......... In The News
...........Welcome Our New Employees

PAGE 4: Halloween 2007 - Pics & Winners Announcement
.......... Seniors & Dry Mouth
...........Eating Disorders & Dental Damage

PAGE 5: Just For Kids - In Celebration of "National Children's Dental Health Month"
.......... No Cavity Kids Club Announcement
.......... Tooth Fairy Facts
.......... CrossWord Puzzle

PAGE 6: The Smile Corner
.......... Foods That Heal - A List of Foods & Their Health Benefits
.......... Dental Emergencies - Facts You Should Know
.......... A Note To Our Patients
.......... Office Hours

 
Volume 2, Issue 1

 

PAGE 2
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Dental Health News from Dr. Slotnick .

TOOTHBRUSHES & TOOTHPASTES
FACTS YOU SHOULD KNOW

Toothbrushes
What's the Best?

With so many toothbrushes on the market you may wonder which one is better. According to the Academy of General Dentistry "the best toothbrush you can buy is the one that you will use". You can have a manual 50 cent toothbrush from the local market and keep better oral health than someone who spent $100 on one. It's all in the proper care of your teeth.

There are some advantages and disadvantages to the different types of brushes available with ease of use, comfort and performance.

Both manual and electric toothbrushes will clean your teeth but some types are better for certain people. If you are at risk for tooth decay or periodontal disease or are elderly or disabled, an electric toothbrush is a better choice. The brush does most of the work and the handles are more user friendly. A manual toothbrush is less expensive and can do a good job, but these brushes should be left to people with low risk of tooth decay and periodontal disease.

Generally, electric toothbrushes are more effective than manual types as they basically do a lot of the hard work for you. Newer designs incorporate a sonic type of movement, that vibrates at high frequency rather than rotate, and these have been shown to be effective in agitating plaque deposits and removing them.

Although there are many good bushes on the market, we recommend SoniCare. The frequency of the vibration (30,0000 oscillations) makes this brush very efficient at removing plaque. Also, this high frequency "extends" the brush bristles by throwing off water micro droplets from the bristle ends to reach into many hard to clean areas.

ELECTRIC
TOOTHBRUSH TYPES

Rotation Oscillation:

The head of these brushes rotates in one direction and then the other - they have a round brush head that moves back and forth very quickly in quick bursts.

The small head is intended for cleaning each side of one tooth before moving on to the next.

Counter Oscillation:

These have the same head shape as oscillating brushes but the tufts of bristles rotate in different directions simultaneously, with each tuft rotating in the opposite direction to that next to it.

Counter Rotational:

With a head that looks similar to a standard manual toothbrush these have individual tufts of bristles which rotate in opposite directions to neighboring ones.

Dual Heads:

As the name implies these brushes have 2 heads - usually a counter-oscillating head combined with a traditional static one. The thinking behind these designs appears to be that more bristles means better cleaning.

Rotation:

These comprise a large percentage of electric toothbrushes sold and as the name implies, rotation brushes have a set of rotating bristles. The bristles can be arranged in a circle that rotates, or individual tufts of bristles can spin.

Side to Side:

Rather than spinning, these brushes vibrate from side to side. You hold the brush sideways against your teeth and it moves up and down.

Vibration:

These brushes vibrate at an ultrasonic rate - more than 1,000 vibrations per minute - against your teeth in order to remove plaque.

Sonic/Ultrasonic:

Ultrasonic frequencies start at 20,000 oscillations per minute and these brushes claim to emit sonic or ultrasonic vibrations to the teeth to break down plaque. Some people enjoy the sensation of these brushes and others do not.

Other Features:

Timers

Several brushes indicate when 2 minutes have elapsed - the recommended time you should brush your teeth for - to ensure a thorough cleaning.

Pressure Sensors

The brush will beep at you to warn you that you are pressing too hard on your teeth while brushing.
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HISTORY
OF THE TOOTHBRUSH

The history of the toothbrush goes back as early as 3500 BC. The earliest relatives of the toothbrush could be the 'chewing sticks' (primitive toothpicks) used by the Babylonians and Egyptians. This form of the toothbrush was crafted from a stick that was chewed on one edge so that the fibers of the wood were made softer and brush-like in shape. It was then rubbed against the teeth to clean them. Sometimes the sticks were made from aromatic trees to freshen the mouth. Ancient Greeks used to rub their teeth every morning with a thin linen towel.  The Chinese are believed to make the next big step in the history of the toothbrush, creating the ancestor of today’s toothbrush. These first toothbrushes were crafted with a handle made of bamboo and a set of Siberian wild boar bristles attached to the handle.

The Chinese are considered as the ones who invented the toothbrush. Their version of the toothbrush spread to Europe, brought back from China to Europe by travelers. But the hair of the Siberian wild boar were very rough on the gums for the Europeans and they were soon replaced by horse hair. French dentists, promoted the European use of toothbrushes in the seventeenth and early eighteenth centuries.

The first toothbrush mass-produced was made by William Addis in England.  The modern history of the toothbrush starts with the invention of nylon by Du Pont in 1937. Just a year later in 1938, the first nylon bristle toothbrush got in the market.  The electric toothbrush although conceived as an idea in 1880, was first produced in 1939, in Switzerland and much later in 1960 was first marketed in U.S.  A rechargeable cordless toothbrush was introduced by General Electric in 1961. The first rotary action electrical toothbrush for home use was introduced in 1987. Today you can find numerous brands, types and designs of toothbrushes on the market.
Hard to believe, but most Americans didn't brush their teeth until soldiers brought the Army's enforced habit back home from World War II.

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOOTHPASTE .... WHAT'S ALL THE HOOPLA

Brushing your teeth with toothpaste that taste good and feels good is something we take for granted, but don't be mistaken; toothpaste does not clean the teeth or remove plaque - brushing does! In the late 1700's one toothpaste was made from burnt bread and by the 1800's ground charcoal was common in tooth powders. These powders were meant to clean the teeth and freshen breath, the same as today.

Colgate sold it's first toothpaste In 1873. Since that time the ingredients have changed dramatically and today there are not many differences between the brands. The American Dental Association recommends you use toothpaste that contains fluoride and look for their seal of approval. Though toothpaste does not clean your teeth, it is effective in delivering fluoride.

If the toothpastes use the same ingredients, what does all this mean? Essentially, it means that if you like the taste of a specific toothpaste and the way it feels in your mouth, buy it and use it. If you like the toothpaste, chances are you will use it more often than a toothpaste that you do not like.

Most importantly, regular brushing is a major tool in preventing tooth decay!

TOOTHPASTE TIP

If you have a canker sore, do not use toothpaste that contains sodium laurel sulfate. There are very few toothpastes on the market that do not contain this ingredient. Read labels carefully to find a toothpaste that won’t irritate a canker sore.

 

 

 

 

 

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Each year, February is designated as Pet Dental Health month by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the American Veterinary Dental Society. February isn't the only time to think about good oral health ...keeping your pet's teeth in gums in good shape has many more benefits than simply fresh breath, although that is important, too!

Did you know that dogs start out with 28 deciduous (baby) teeth and cats start out with 26. By six months of age these baby teeth fall out and are replaced by permanent teeth, 42 in the dog and 30 in the cat.

Dogs and cats rarely get cavities, but are much more prone to gum disease and excess tartar build-up on the teeth. Food particles and bacteria collect along the gum line forming plaque. If plaque is not removed, minerals in the saliva combine with the plaque and form tartar (or calculus) which adheres strongly to the teeth.

Plaque starts to mineralize in just 3-5 days and forms tartar. The tartar is irritating to the gums and causes an inflammation called gingivitis. This can be seen as reddening of the gums adjacent to the teeth and causes bad breath. If the tartar is not removed, it builds up under the gums and separates the gums from the teeth to form "pockets" and encourages even more bacterial growth.

At this point the damage is irreversible, and called "periodontal" disease. It can be very painful and can lead to loose teeth, abscesses, and bone loss or infection. As bacterial growth continues to increase, the bacteria may enter the bloodstream. This can cause infection of the heart valves (endocarditis), liver, and kidneys.

The first step is to take your pet to the veterinarian.  Your veterinarian will examine your pet's mouth: teeth, gums and oral cavity and make a recommendation if a professional cleaning is necessary. They can give you advice on toothpastes and brushes that are suited for your pet's dental health. If your pet is young or not in need of a professional cleaning, your vet will be able to show you how to provide dental care at home and give you a list of foods, treats, bones or chew toys made specifically for promoting healthy teeth and gums.  Starting a home dental program while your pet is young is the best bet.

Veterinary dentistry is becoming more common and more sophisticated. Pets can have the same procedures as people: root canals, crowns, and even braces. The Veterinary Oral Health Council is an organization of veterinary dentists who will help lead all of us in this rather new field. They have
developed a seal of acceptance for pet dental products, just as the American Dental Association has its seal of approval. Scientific studies are continuously being done on other products, and when they are proven to be effective, they will be eligible for approval.
Volume 2, Issue 1

 

PAGE 3
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Dental Health News from Dr. Slotnick .

January Coupon

February Coupon

March Coupon
CLICK ON THE ABOVE COUPONS FOR MORE INFORMATION

February may be a short month, but it is a busy month. Not only is it American Heart Month, Bake for Family Fun Month, Fabulous Florida Strawberry Month, National Cherry Month, National Hot Breakfast Month, National Weddings Month, and North Carolina Sweet Potato Month, it is also Children’s Dental Health Month. Children are our direct connection to the future. One day they will be our teachers and truck drivers; they will be our healthcare providers and our leaders. We owe it to ourselves, our future and our children to provide them with the best health care that we can.

Celebrate Children’s Dental Health Month by promoting a healthy lifestyle and creating oral health awareness in your children. Developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

A child’s dental health is critically important. Untreated tooth decay can cause pain and infection that can result in eating, speaking and learning problems. A study conducted by the National Survey of Children’s Health in 2005, reported that 51 million school hours are lost each year to dental-related illnesses.

Protecting children is one of the highest values in many cultures. Because tooth decay is the number one childhood disease, early intervention, prevention and treatment are of utmost concern and priority.

During the month of February, a number of appointments will be made available to children who are not covered by dental insurance. They will receive a check-up, cleaning and fluoride treatment at no cost. Call our office at (925) 757-0757 early to reserve your child's time. Please print the CERTIFICATE and bring it with you to receive this offer.


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6 STEPS TO A BETTER SMILE

 

1. Take the time to give your teeth the care they need & deserve.

Did you know that it takes two to three minutes to adequately brush your teeth but that most people spend less than 30 seconds brushing? Brushing this long is so important because of bacteria. Millions of bacteria live, work, and play in our mouths and they feed on food left on our teeth after we eat. Acid is a by-product of this bacterial feasting and it is this acid which destroys enamel creating cavities. It is important to remove bacteria from all tooth surfaces by brushing and to do this adequately it takes two to three minutes.

2. Stop brushing so hard.

Incredibly, nearly two out of three people damage their own teeth by brushing too hard! It takes very little pressure to remove bacteria, food, and plaque but unfortunately, most people apply three to four times the necessary brushing pressure causing damage to teeth and gums. Damage caused by brushing to hard includes: receding gums, sensitive teeth, and root cavities.

3. Do a little flossing. It just might save your teeth.

You've heard that you need to floss at least once a day, but has anyone ever told you why? Again, it all has to do with bacteria. Bacteria likes to hide between teeth and here they continue to feed on food, casting out cavity causing acid. If allowed to remain, the bacteria invades and destroys gum tissue as well as the bones which support teeth. Flossing removes these bacteria from between teeth so they can no longer cause problems.

4. It's not just the candy that is dangerous to your smile.

Did you know that many foods other than candy promote tooth decay? Bacteria feed on the sugar of candy creating cavity causing acid. Bacteria not only uses candy to create acid but can also use any food which contains sugars and other carbohydrates. This includes fruits, peanut butter, crackers, potato chips, popcorn, and other foods. Foods like raisins and peanut butter that stick to teeth where they provide a constant source of energy for bacteria are particularly harmful. Brushing after meals helps by removing both the bacteria and the left over food particles which the bacteria feast on. If you can not brush, try rinsing your mouth with water. Chewing sugarless gum also helps because this stimulates saliva flow. Saliva acts as a natural plaque fighting substance.

5. Reduce your dependency on coffee.

Believe it or not, coffee is one of the most dangerous threats to your smile. Coffee stains teeth destroying your naturally white smile. Worst yet, because most people sip coffee throughout the day, bacteria are provided with a constant source of sugar from which to produce cavity causing acid. If that wasn't bad enough, coffee can cause small fractures in teeth called crazes. These occur when the teeth are forced to expand and contract as a result of being exposed to hot foods or liquids. These hot and cold cycles occur when we drink hot coffee. Over a prolonged period of time, this will create crazes in the teeth.

6. Professional cleanings do more than your toothbrush.

If you're brushing for two to three minutes and flossing why is it important to have professional cleanings (dental prophylaxis) ? It's more important than ever with the link between periodontal disease and heart disease to see your dentist and/or hygienist at recommended intervals to have your teeth professionally cleaned. During a professional cleaning your dentist or hygienist will remove plaque and calculus, polish your teeth, apply fluoride and perform probing to determine your periodontal health. We also utilize an interceptive periodontal program, PreViser, to evaluate if you are at risk of periodontal disease and the level of severity. Professional cleanings performed by your dentist or hygienist form the foundation for preventing gum disease and tooth decay.
Ask Dr. Slotnick
I'm sure you've been hearing a lot about risk factors involved in predicting the likelihood of your developing different diseases.  Risk factors for, say, heart disease, can be anything from smoking to high cholesterol to high blood pressure.  The greater the number of risk factors, the greater the risk for future disease.  The same risk factor analysis holds true for Periodontal Disease--the disease that can rob you of your teeth and itself be a risk factor for other systemic diseases.
 
I am pleased to tell you that we now have available a new "expert" computer program, called Previser that helps us determine both your risk for future periodontal disease and your current periodontal disease state.  This is a new program that has been developed by a panel of leading periodontists, and is endorsed by the American Academy of Periodontology.  The program takes over 70 data points from your dental exam and objectively applies its algorithms to arrive at your risk and disease scores.  The value of this is that it helps us intercept and treat beginning areas of periodontal disease before they can become overbearing problems to your dental and general health. 
 
At no cost to you, we will be preparing a Previser report for you at each Continuing Care appointment.  Not only will this tool enable us to make you healthier, it's continued use will give you an easy to understand record of your periodontal health improvements over time. 
 
Together we can achieve your best dental health ever!
 

IN THE NEWS

Delta Dental of California announced that it has added two additional benefits to its standard commercial fee-for-service programs: implant coverage and additional cleanings and oral exams for pregnant women.

The enhanced benefits are now being offered to all new commercial client groups, as well as to client groups renewing their Delta Dental Premier and Delta Dental PPO contracts at no additional cost for fully insured clients.

Implant coverage, which for many years has been available as a rider, will now be included as a standard benefit. Benefits for pregnant women include an additional oral exam as well as an additional cleaning or, for patients with signs of periodontal disease, additional periodontal scaling/root planing of up to all four quadrants.

“By offering implant coverage as a standard benefit, we are enabling patients to have more choices to replace lost teeth,” said Marilynn Belek, DMD, Delta Dental’s executive vice president and chief dental officer. “The efficacy of implants is a proven, viable clinical alternative, and this coverage helps make it more affordable for more people.”

Dr. Belek noted that the additional benefits for pregnant women were added because, while it has not been conclusively proven that periodontal disease directly results in lower-weight, pre-term babies, an extra cleaning and oral exam are both safe and beneficial to pregnant women’s oral health.

 
WELCOME OUR NEW EMPLOYEES

WELCOME JULIANA!

Some of you who have recently been to the office may have noticed that we added a new hygienist to our staff. We would like to welcome Juliana Norris and look forward to her being a part of our team.

Juliana graduated the Dental Hygiene Program in 2001 from Santa Rosa Junior College. In the past 5 years she has become highly skilled in all phases of oral hygiene, periodontal therapy and tissue management. She is also experienced in administering local anesthesia and nitrous oxide to make your hygiene care more comfortable.

WELCOME CALVIN!

On January 21st, Calvin Franklin will be joining our team. He brings with him 10 years of experience as a Dental Assistant and a fantastic personality! His attitude and skills are geared toward making patients comfortable in the office. Calvin's personal goal is to become a dentist, and he is currently taking college courses to achieve this dream.

Calvin is highly skilled in 'infection control', 'radiology', 'chair-side assisting' and 'sterilization'. We look forward to his energy and enthusiasm!

Volume 2, Issue 1

 

 

PAGE 4
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Dental Health News from Dr. Slotnick .

Thanks to all of you who joined us for our 4th Annual Halloween Party. We had lots fun, good company & great food., Katie Kohl predicted the future for those who dared to hear, the kid’s costumes were fantastic and once again your imaginations with pumpkin carving just amazed us!

We hope you all had as great a time as we did! Thanks for coming.
Congratulations to Jennifer Benson for winning the Capt'n Doc and Hound Treasure Hunt Contest! Jennifer won a 2 night stay at the CalNeva Resort and Spa in Tahoe for two. By the way all you treasure seekers, Jennifer found the treasure on BOOTY ISLAND. Thanks to all of you who entered!

Congratulations to Miss Butterfly Benson, our Costume Contest Winner and to our Pumpkin Carving Contest Winners, Joe Miller & family. We can hardly wait to see what you dream up next year!!!


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Seniors and Dry Mouth

Doctors used to think that dry mouth (xerostomia) was a normal part of aging but they now know that’s not true. Older, healthy adults shouldn't have a problem with saliva but dry mouth is a common problem among older adults. In fact, the Oral Cancer Foundation estimates that 20 percent of elderly people suffer from dry mouth and this condition is also a hidden cause of tooth loss and gum disease in 30 percent of adults.

Dry mouth happens when salivary glands don’t work properly. This can make it hard to eat, swallow, taste, and even speak. Dry mouth also can add to the risk of tooth decay and infection. You can get dry mouth from many diseases or medical treatments, such as head and neck radiation therapy. Many common medicines also can cause dry mouth.

Dry mouth, which is the reduced flow of saliva, could be a symptom of a particular medical condition or a side effect of certain medications. Common medications taken that may cause dry mouth are:

  • Antihistamines
  • Blood pressure medications
  • Pain pills
  • Decongestants
  • Incontinence medications
  • Antidepressants
  • Diuretics
  • Muscle relaxers
  • Parkinson’s disease medications

Sufficient saliva is needed in the mouth to wash away food debris and reduce plaque by neutralizing the acids that plaque produces. Severe tooth decay, as well as other mouth problems, often occur if dry mouth is left untreated. Other common problems linked to dry mouth are:

  • Difficulty speaking
  • Hoarseness
  • Persistent sore throat
  • Problems with speaking
  • Problems with swallowing
  • Burning sensation in the mouth
  • Dry nasal passages
  • Difficulty wearing dentures

If you suffer from dry mouth, be sure to discuss treatment methods, such as saliva substitutes, with your dentist. To prevent the dryness, drink extra water. Cut back on sugary snacks, drinks that have caffeine or alcohol, and tobacco. Your dentist or doctor also might suggest that you keep your mouth wet by using artificial saliva, which you can get from most drug stores. Some people benefit from sucking hard candy. Sugar-free gum can also help increase saliva flow. Since extensive tooth decay is often a result of dry mouth, brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily, regular dental check ups and eating nutritious foods are essential to keeping your mouth healthy.
 

Eating Disorders & Dental Damage

National Eating Disorders Awareness Week  is February 25 through March 3

Unfortunately eating disorders are increasing at a rapid rate in our modern era and young men and woman who suffer from bulimia nervosa (bulimia) and anorexia nervosa (anorexia) are living with the dental consequences. Those who suffer from eating disorders are often desperate to hide their condition from friends and family, but dentists are able to recognize the disorders during routine dental exams. By examining the teeth and gums, dentists are in a crucial position to help diagnose the disorders that affect thousands of women and men across the United States.

“Oral examinations of those suffering from anorexia or bulimia can reveal eroded teeth, fillings that are raised above the tooth surface, dry mouth, missing enamel and other related dental problems,” said Dr. Jed Jacobson, senior vice president of professional services and chief science officer at Delta Dental. “If a person notices these symptoms, we urge them to seek immediate treatment from their dentist. In most cases, dentists can treat the damage to the teeth and gums before the damage is irreparable.”

Bulimia involves binge eating followed by self-induced vomiting. Over time, stomach acid wears down the enamel of the teeth, causing severe tooth decay– especially in the front of the mouth.

Anorexia is characterized by an intense desire to lose weight and a fear of gaining weight. Those who suffer from this disorder are in a constant state of semi starvation, which robs the body of necessary nutrients. A side effect of anorexia is osteoporosis, a weakening of the bones that can lead to tooth loss.

Facts about Anorexia and Bulimia

  • Eating disorders affect almost 5 percent of all young women in the United States and 15 percent of young women have unhealthy attitudes about food.

  • Eating disorders affect men too. Five to 10 percent of people with anorexia or bulimia are male.

  • Without treatment, up to 20 percent of people with serious eating disorders die. With treatment, less than 3 percent die.

  • Visible tooth decay is a leading sign of bulimia.

If you or someone you know is suffering from an eating disorder, information and programs can be found on the NEDA website - the National Eating Disorders Association.

Visit your dentist! While the root psychological causes of both of these eating disorders must be treated, proper dental treatment can repair the dental damage and serve as a catalyst to the recovery process.

Volume 2, Issue 1

 

PAGE 5
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Dental Health News from Dr. Slotnick .
 

JUST FOR KIDS

News & Fun

In Celebration of

Children's Dental Health Month

 

January 2008 kicks off our "No Cavity Club". The club is being formed to help provide extra encouragement for children to take care of their teeth, and reward those that are taking good care of them.

Here's how it works:  Any child from age 3-12 that does not have a cavity at a an exam/recall can fill out an entry form for a monthly drawing.  At the end of each month one name will be drawn.

The winner receives a $25 gift card to Toys R Us and dental care products. 

All children that are cavity free will receive a "Dr. Slotnick 's No Cavity Club" t-shirt and earn a place on our wall of fame! Be sure to check out our next Newsletter for pictures of our members!

"REACH FOR THE MOON. EVEN IF YOU MISS YOU'LL BE AMOUNG THE STARS!"

"Tooth Fairy Facts"

I bet you know about the Tooth Fairy!  You place your lost baby tooth under your pillow and sometime during the night, the Tooth Fairy comes and takes your tooth and leaves you a gift; usually money.  Although the Tooth Fairy originated in the United States, she visits children in other countries too.  At one time in Europe, there was a tradition to bury baby teeth that fell out. Children's' teeth were buried in the garden or a field so that a new one would be free to grow while at the same time discouraging evil witches from finding it and putting a curse on the child.

In Italy the Tooth Fairy Fatina is often substituted by a small mouse topino.  In France, the Tooth Fairy is called La Petite Souris - The Little Mouse and in Ireland she is sometimes known as annabogle. From parts of Lowland Scotland, comes a tradition similar to the fairy mouse: a white fairy rat which purchases the teeth with coins.

In some Asian countries, such as Japan, Korea, and Vietnam, when a child loses a tooth the usual custom is that he or she should throw it onto the roof if it came from the lower jaw, or into the space beneath the floor if it came from the upper jaw. While doing this, the child shouts a request for the tooth to be replaced with the tooth of a mouse.  In Taiwan, when a child loses a tooth, he throws it up on the roof. He has to stand very straight, with his legs together. He must be sure that there is no space at all between his legs. If there is even the smallest gap, his new tooth will grow in funny - it will stick straight out!

In India, young children often offer their discarded milk tooth to the sun, sometimes wrapped in a tiny rag of cotton turf. In the Philippines, kids leave their teeth on the windowsill for the Tooth Rat. The next morning, the tooth is gone and the Rat has left them money.

So if you have a tooth that fell out, be sure to hide it under your pillow or throw it on the roof top. We know your name is in the Tooth Fairy Book and she told us she would be visiting you!

"ALWAYS LEAVE ROOM IN YOUR GARDEN FOR THE FAIRIES TO DANCE"
You need Java enabled to view the crossword applet.

If you do not have Java installed you can obtain it from java.com. If do have Java you may need to check your security settings to make sure that applets are enabled, especially if you are viewing the puzzle from your hard disk. In Windows XP you may be able to enable the applet by clicking on the yellow bar at the top of the window and selecting "Allow blocked content".

Volume 2, Issue 1

 

PAGE 6
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Dental Health News from Dr. Slotnick .
Ryan Jackson

Thanks for your picture Ryan. We can't see your great smile, but we bet it's hiding in there!!

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The Smile Corner

Say Cheese!Send us a picture of your favorite smile, along with the first name and a short description. We'll choose one ( or a few) each quarter and put them up here.

We'll be watching for

your Smiles!

pictures should be in jpg format and please email them to: THE SMILE CORNER
 
QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, SUGGESTIONS?

If you have any questions, comments or suggestions about what you would like to read in our Newsletter please email or call us at 925 757-0757 and let us know! We love to hear from you.

 
APPLES
Protects
heart
Prevents constipation
Blocks
diarrhea
Improves
lung capacity
Cushions
joints
APRICOTS
Combats
cancer
Controls Blood Pressure
Saves
Eyesight
Wards off Alzheimer's
Slows aging process
ARTICHOKES
Aids
Digestion
Lowers cholesterol
Protects
heart
Stabilizes
blood sugar
Guards from liver disease
AVOCADOS
Battles
diabetes
Lowers cholesterol
Helps stop strokes
Controls Blood Pressure
Smooth's
skin
BANANAS
Protects
heart
Quiets
cough
Strengthens bones
Controls Blood Pressure
Blocks
diarrhea
BEANS
Prevents constipation
Helps hemorrhoids
Lowers cholesterol
Combats
cancer
Stabilizes
blood sugar
BEETS
Controls Blood Pressure
Combats
cancer
Strengthens bones
Protects
heart
Aids
weight loss
BLUEBERRIES
Combats
cancer
Protects
heart
Stabilizes
blood sugar
Boosts
Memory
Prevents constipation
BROCCOLI
Strengthens bones
Saves
eyesight
Combats
cancer
Protects
heart
Controls Blood Pressure
CABBAGE
Combats
cancer
Prevents constipation
Promotes weight loss
Protects
heart
Helps hemorrhoids
CANTELOUPE
Saves
eyesight
Controls
Blood Pressure
Lowers cholesterol
Combats
cancer
Supports immune sys.
CARROTS
Saves
eyesight
Protects
heart
Prevents constipation
Combats
cancer
Promotes weight loss
CAULIFLOWER
Combats
prostate cancer
Combats
breast cancer
Strengthens bones
Banishes
bruises
Guards against heart disease
CHERRIES
Protects
heart
Combats
cancer
Ends
insomnia
Slows
aging
Shields against Alzheimer's
CHESTNUTS
Promotes
weight loss
Protects
heart
Lowers cholesterol
Combats
cancer
Controls Blood Pressure
CHILI PEPPERS
Aids
digestion
Soothes
sore throat
Clears
sinuses
Combats
cancer
Boosts
immune sys.
FIGS
Promotes
weight loss
Helps stop strokes
Lowers cholesterol
Combats
cancer
Controls Blood Pressure
FISH
Protects
heart
Boosts
Memory
Protects
heart
Combats
cancer
Supports immune sys.
FLAX
Aids
digestion
Battles
diabetes
Protects
heart
Improves
mental health
Boosts
immune sys.
GARLIC
Lowers cholesterol
Controls Blood Pressure
Combats
cancer
Kills
bacteria
Fights
fungus
GRAPEFRUIT
Protects against heart attacks
Promotes weight loss
Helps stop strokes
Combats prostate cancer
Lowers cholesterol
GRAPES
Saves
eyesight
Conquers kidney stones
Combats
cancer
Enhances
blood flow
Protects
heart
GREEN TEA
Combats
cancer
Protects
heart
Helps
stop stroke
Promotes weight loss
Kills
bacteria
HONEY
Heals
wounds
Aids
digestion
Guards
against ulcers
Increases
energy
Fights
allergies
LEMONS
Combats
cancer
Protects
heart
Controls Blood Pressure
Smooth's
skin
Stops
scurvy
LIMES
Combats
cancer
Protects
heart
Controls Blood Pressure
Smooth's
skin
Stops
scurvy
MANGOS
Combats
cancer
Boosts
Memory
Regulates thyroid
Aids
digestion
Shields against Alzheimer's
MUSHROOMS
Controls Blood Pressure
Lowers cholesterol
Kills
bacteria
Combats
cancer
Strengthens bones
OATS
Lowers cholesterol
Combats
cancer
Battles
diabetes
Prevents constipation
Smooth's
skin
OLIVE OIL
Protects
heart
Promotes weight loss
Combats
cancer
Battles
diabetes
Smooth's
skin
ONIONS
Reduces risk
of heart attack
Combats
cancer
Kills
bacteria
Lowers cholesterol
Fights
fungus
ORANGES
Supports
immune sys.
Combats
cancer
Protects
heart
Strengthens respirations
PEACHES
Prevents constipation
Combats
cancer
Helps stop
stroke
Aids
digestion
Helps
hemorrhoids
PEANUTS
Protects against heart disease
Promotes weight loss
Combats prostate cancer
Lowers cholesterol
Aggravates diverticulitis
PINEAPPLE
Strengthens bones
Relieves
colds
Aids
digestion
Dissolves
warts
Blocks
diarrhea
PRUNES
Slows aging process
Prevents constipation
Boosts
Memory
Lowers cholesterol
Protects from heart disease
RICE
Protects
heart
Battles
diabetes
Conquers kidney stones
Combats
cancer
Helps
stop strokes
STRAWBERRIES
Combats
cancer
Protects
heart
Boosts
Memory
Calms
stress
SWEET POTATOES
Saves
eyesight
Lifts
mood
Combats
cancer
Strengthens bones
TOMATOES
Protects
prostate
Combats
cancer
Lowers cholesterol
Protects
heart
WALNUTS
Lowers cholesterol
Combats
cancer
Boosts
Memory
Lifts
mood
Protects from heart disease
WATER
Promotes
weight loss
Combats
cancer
Boosts
memory
Smooth's
skin
Protects from heart disease
WATERMELON
Promotes
weight loss
Promotes weight loss
Lowers cholesterol
Helps
stop stroke
Controls Blood Pressure
WHEAT GERM
Combats
colon cancer
Prevents constipation
Lowers cholesterol
Helps
stop stroke
Improves
digestion
WHEAT BRAN
Combats
colon cancer
Prevents constipation
Lowers cholesterol
Helps
stop stroke
Improves
digestion
YOGURT
Guards
against ulcers
Strengthens bones
Lowers cholesterol
Supports immune sys.
Aids
digestion

 

 
 

Dental Emergencies

For a parent, seeing a child lose a tooth in an accident can be gut wrenching. Such injuries are often bloody and can be anxiety provoking for the child as well. Knowing how to prevent dental injury and what to do in case an accident occurs can save your child's teeth.

All teeth, even baby teeth, are important. Many parents, are under the false impression that baby teeth are less important because they will eventually be replaced.

This is absolutely not true. Baby teeth serve several important functions including, acting as spacers creating enough room in the jaw so that permanent teeth can come in, aiding in proper speech development, and serving to help build self-esteem in the newly independent child.

If A Dental Emergency Happens, What Should You Do?

One of the most important things you can do as a parent to protect these precious baby teeth is to make sure that you are prepared before an accident even occurs.

Before an emergency ever occurs:

Make sure that your dentist has after hours coverage and can be available to take care of dental emergencies. Keep your dentist's emergency number readily available (carry it in your wallet or organizer).

The most common dental emergencies include:

(1) teeth that have been knocked out due to trauma

(2) teeth that have been chipped as a result of an accident.

In either case, it is important to know what to do.

Time is the enemy when a tooth is knocked out. If a dentist is seen within one hour after an accident, chances are good that the tooth can be re-implanted and saved. Remember to rinse the tooth off and place it in a cup of saliva or milk. See a dentist immediately.

With chipped teeth the situation is slightly more complicated. If your child is experiencing pain or sensitivity in the affected tooth, see a dentist immediately as this indicates the tooth nerve may be injured. The dentist can perform a root canal or other necessary procedure to save the tooth. Afterwards, a porcelain crown or bonding material can be sculpted onto the tooth to replace the lost portion.

If no pain or sensitivity is experienced the situation is not as critical. You should call your dentist to double check, but in most cases, you can simply schedule a future appointment to replace the lost portion of the tooth with a crown, porcelain veneer or with bonding material.

If your child's tooth is knocked out:


Carefully rinse the tooth in water. Make sure that you do not touch the root of the tooth with your hands. The root is the portion of the tooth embedded in the gum and not normally seen.

Attempt to place the tooth back in its socket and secure with a wet wrap. If this is not possible or if you are afraid that your child might swallow the tooth, place it in a glass containing either saliva or milk.


Preventing Your Child's Dental Injuries


The best way to prevent a dental emergency is to properly protect your child. Dentists recommend that children who engaged in sports wear mouth guards. Mouth guards are now being recommended for sports such as rollerblading, skateboarding, basketball, baseball, football and soccer.

Not only do mouth guards protect teeth but they also protect lips, gums, and cheeks. Commonly there are two types of mouth guards:

Semi-formable mouth guards are available in sporting good stores and in drug stores. Often these mouth guards can be boiled to fit allowing them to sit snugly against the teeth.

Dentist made mouth guards are custom made. The dentist creates a mold of the mouth which is used to create the mouth guard. Consequently, these mouth guards fit more securely against the teeth affording the best protection.

Another way to reduce the risk of dental injury is to watch out for situations that commonly lead to injury. These are some of the more common:

Trips and Falls - Falling into furniture and down stairs often causes dental injury. This is most likely to occur when children are first learning to stand using furniture to maintain balance.

Children who are just learning to walk also have a tendency to fall down - often onto household furniture or other items. If you have an infant make sure to child-proof your home before they become mobile, usually around 12 - 16 months.

Water Fountains - Often kids injure teeth by ramming them into the spout of water fountains as they drink. Sometimes kids behind them accidentally bump into them causing them to injure their teeth.

Forks and Spoons - Believe it or not, some injuries are self-inflicted when people, not paying attention, crack or chip their teeth with spoons or forks as they eat

Bottle Caps - Tell your child to never open a bottle cap by using their teeth.

 
 

Thank You - Thank You - Thank You!

We just can't say it enough! We want you to know that we are aware that you have put a lot of trust in us to take care of you and your family's dental needs. We are doing our best to live up to your expectations by implementing the newest technology, attending continuing education courses, and trying to go that extra step in creating a comfortable and friendly environment in the office.

We appreciate your referrals and hope you will continue to support us by referring your family, friends and co-workers. It truly is the greatest compliment!

Please let us know if there is anything we can do for you.

Thank You Again!

WE ALWAYS WELCOME NEW PATIENTS AND APPRECIATE YOUR REFERRALS

Dr. Stephen R. Slotnick

2219 Buchanan Rd., Suite 1
Antioch, CA 94509

Phone: 925.757.0757
Fax: 925.706.4186

Office Hours:
Mon. - Thurs. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sat. 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Our Services Include:
  • General Dentistry
  • Cosmetic Dentistry
  • BriteSmile
  • Veneers
  • Crown & Bridge
  • Preventative Care
  • Dentures
  • and much more
Volume 2, Issue 1