Electronic Tooth Brushes...Should You or Shouldn't You?

One of the most common questions we are asked in our dental practice is, "Should I be using an electric toothbrush?" The truth is the answer to that question depends on each patients' individual situation and dental needs.

Most patients do well with a manual toothbrush; however, there are some patients who would benefit from using an electric toothbrush such as:

· patients with arthritis

· Parkinson's patients

· patients with physical limitations

· patients with heavy plaque and tartar build up

The electric toothbrush you choose is a matter of preference. However, whichever toothbrush you choose, it is important to use it properly. This means allowing the brush to do the work. When using an electric brush, you do not need to use pressure or the movement of your hand and wrist. The electric brush does all the work; all you need to do is place the bristles on the tooth along the edge of the gumline and follow along the edge of the gumline. Easy!

It is also important to realize that using an electric toothbrush DOES NOT take the place of flossing. Although an electric brush may reach some areas better than using a manual brush, it still does not get in between the teeth completely.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your individual needs, we would be happy to discuss this with you at your next dental visit.


The above information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute health or medical advice. Consult a qualified dentist to determine an individualized treatment plan. All information provided is for general information and educational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical or healthcare advice, or to diagnose medical problems, or to take the place of professional medical care. Consult a qualified dentist or physician to determine an individualized treatment plan or to gain medical or healthcare-related advice.

Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the contents of this educational piece is current, accurate and complete, neither David A. Dersh, D.M.D., P.A. nor any other party involved in the publication of this paper make guarantees of any kind as to its accuracy, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose and are not responsible for any errors or omissions of any kind.

Dentistry on a Budget!

In these economic times, it’s easy to forgo all but the most critical expenses. As the saying goes, however, ignore your teeth and they’ll go away. Dental care needn’t be forsaken when the money gets tight.

Here are some things to consider about dental care when planning your expenses:

• Maintain at least an annual visit. Regular cleanings and check-ups keep your gums healthy, which slows down gum disease and helps avoid the need for periodontal surgery—a much bigger expense—in the future.
• Explore your dental care options. For example, although a crown may be the ideal treatment, it might be possible to repair a tooth with a bonded or traditional filling as an interim measure and hold off that crown procedure for a while.
• Missing teeth? A low-cost removable appliance can give you better chewing ability and protect the remaining teeth against excessive force until you can afford a better option such as a fixed bridge or an implant.
• Many diseases can manifest in the mouth, such as cancers, diabetes, leukemia and acid reflux. Your dentist could be your first line of defense against chronic illness.
• Treatment can’t always be postponed or mitigated. Consider having necessary procedures staged over a period of time to meet your budget needs.
• Have dental x-rays performed on an as-needed rather than a scheduled basis.
• Leave your fillings alone. Old fillings need not be replaced simply because they’re old or made of metal.
• With your M.D.’s consent, alternative therapies of supplements or herbs may suffice for certain conditions if traditional therapies are not working.

David A. Dersh, D.M.D., P.A. serves its patients by educating them on their options to best meet their dental needs, empowering them to make informed decisions about their oral health. Let us work with you to budget your dental care for a healthy smile. We’ll make every effort to time your visits in a manner that doesn’t impair your work responsibilities.

Disclaimer: David A. Dersh, D.M.D., P.A. serves its patients by educating them on their options to best meet their dental needs, empowering them to make informed decisions about their oral health.
All information provided is for general information and educational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical or healthcare advice, or to diagnose medical problems, or to take the place of professional medical care. Consult a qualified dentist or physician to determine an individualized treatment plan or to gain medical or healthcare-related advice.

© 2009 David A. Dersh, D.M.D., P.A.
Today’s cutting-edge dentistry. Yesterday’s compassionate care. SM

Good Dental Practice for Seniors

Good oral health is especially important for the elder population. Unfortunately, for shut-ins, disabled or assisted living patients, the time or expense incidental to transportation or treatment of dental conditions often postpones appropriate care.

Proper care includes:
• Examinations for cavities, gum disease, and oral cancers, infections.
• Repairing, relining or providing new denture fabrication for better fit and function
• Restoring teeth which have cavities via traditional fills, bonding or crowns
• Early treatment to moderate gum disease, non surgically
• Creating bite guards where indicated to protect the dentition

Elders and their caregivers sometimes do not recognize the physical benefits of regular examinations. For instance, studies show that gum inflammation and disease in the elderly are related to heart problems. In addition, many medications result in a drier mouth, which results in increased root decay notwithstanding an excellent record of previous dental care and dental work.

Ongoing elder dental care may provide some of the following benefits:
• Improved health arising from a redress of chewing function abnormalities, specifically better digestion and intake of nutrients
• A decrease in the risk of inhalation pneumonia from oral bacteria with regular maintenance
• A potential decrease in the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis with non surgical treatment of early or moderate periodontitis

Consider selecting a dentist with the ability to provide at-home or mobile care. The psychological benefits to patients experiencing residential care should not be underestimated. Treatment in a familiar environment produces less stress and requires less waiting time for the patient, aides and caregivers. Additionally, the patient’s transportation costs are greatly decreased. We can provide this type of care to you, a loved one, or someone you know.

Disclaimer: David A. Dersh, D.M.D., P.A. serves its patients by educating them on their options to best meet their dental needs, empowering them to make informed decisions about their oral health.
All information provided is for general information and educational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical or healthcare advice, or to diagnose medical problems, or to take the place of professional medical care. Consult a qualified dentist or physician to determine an individualized treatment plan or to gain medical or healthcare-related advice.

© 2009 David A. Dersh, D.M.D., P.A.

Today’s Cutting-Edge Dentistry. Yesterday’s Compassionate care. SM