Brushing and Enamel Erosion

So I'm going to tell you something that you may not have ever heard coming from a dentist before: It's possible to brush your teeth too often! Yes, you read that right. We see patients in our office who are overly zealous about brushing their teeth and have actually started to erode their enamel.

Enamel erosion can contribute to gum disease when plaque buildup at the base of the tooth causes the tooth to move away from the gumline. This creates and environment that is prime for the development of gingivitis.

So back to brushing your teeth. I'm not going to tell you it's not important and crucial to your overall dental health. It is! But brushing immediately after a meal, as most of us have been taught since childhood, can damage enamel because saliva produces an acidic substance to help you begin the digestive process when you eat. Ideally, you should brush your teeth about 30 minutes after meals so that the acid has had a chance to neutralize. We encourage our patients to brush thoroughly but gently with soft-bristle brushes or electric toothbrushes instead of scrubbing away with hard bristles - also a practice that can contribute to enamel erosion. Brushing your teeth six or seven times a day can also lead to potential problems down the road. If you think you're brushing too much, talk to your dentist. Practicing good oral hygiene today can prevent costly visits to the gum doctors tomorrow!

A New Perspective on Anxiety

You'd be amazed at how many of our new patients tell us they experience some form of anxiety or fear about visiting the dentist - particularly a practice like ours that specializes in implants and other more "invasive" procedures like bone regeneration and restoration. We get it. We understand that going to the dentist is not something most people look forward to. And we know that dental anxiety is real. But we want to help alleviate that anxiety so our patients can get the treatment that they need without extra stress and tension.

There are a variety of widely accepted coping mechanisms to assist with dental anxiety. These tips and techniques are derived from an understanding of some of the root causes of anxiety and can be implemented at our office at any time. You should never be afraid to speak up and tell your dentist or periodontist that you are uncomfortable or nervous about the procedure so steps can be taken to ensure you have a positive experience.

We understand dental anxiety and fear - and we have a large percentage of patients who experience some degree of nervousness about their appointments and treatments. It's a very common phenomenon and we encourage you to notify us of any concerns when you make your appointment. It's nothing we haven't heard before - and our first priority is you, the patient, and our commitment to making sure you have healthy teeth and gums for years to come!

Caring for your teeth and gums...Denver and Beyond

While Vacationing...Gum Disease could be your Unwanted Guest

As the days grow longer and Summer draws closer, thoughts may be turning towards summer vacation plans away from Denver. Whether your idea of the perfect summer vacation includes camping in the mountains, a beach-side cottage by the ocean or lake, or a cross-country trek visiting family and friends along the way -- know that gum disease risk factors are tagging along for the ride.

Gum disease just might be one of the sneakiest diseases taunting Americans worldwide. That’s because it starts in the background without any symptoms to warn you of it's arrival. The disease begins with plaque build up on the surface of your teeth that results in tiny pockets along the gum line.
These pockets then serve as the perfect habitat for the bacteria that causes gum disease. Perhaps the most amazing part is the speed in which this all takes place. Within a two week time span the bacteria in your mouth can more than double if you're neglecting your oral care.
As you prepare for that fun filled vacation, be sure to follow these tips to ensure your gums are just as healthy at the end of your trip as they were when you left:

• Store your toothbrushes in travel containers that have holes for proper air circulation. This airflow will allow the brush to thoroughly dry and discourage the growth of bacteria.
• Store toothbrushes separately to prevent the spread of bacteria from one brush to another
• Thoroughly clean and disinfect the travel containers before and after your trip
• Regularly disinfect your toothbrush while on vacation or at home by washing it in the dishwasher, storing it in the fridge or placing it in a cup of mouthwash
• When traveling abroad brush with bottled water 
• Keep your toothbrush 2-5 feet from the sink and toilet to avoid water contamination
• Always pack extra oral care supplies in case you can’t readily purchase them
• If you don’t have toothpaste, brush with water to remove food and bacteria. Brushing with water alone is better than not brushing at all.
• If you forget your toothbrush and are unable to purchase a new one, wrap a washcloth around your fingertip and rub along teeth surfaces. Finish with  floss and rinse with mouthwash if available. 
• Don’t share a toothbrush! Oral bacteria can be passed from one mouth to another via the brush.

There’s no excuse for letting your oral health decline while on vacation. Stay on top of your oral routine and monitor your mouth closely. If you notice signs of gum disease or any unusual changes you are unsure about contact your dental practitioner right away.

If you're dealing with or suspect gum disease, Dr. Versman and Dr. Heller, Periodontists in Aurora Colorado, treat gum disease patients in the Denver metro area. Call Periodontal Associates at 303-755-4500 or visit us on the web at www.periodontalhealth.com.