April Is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

Did you know that each time Dr. Dersh does an exam at your check-up visit that he is screening you for oral cancer? Early detection is key in the treatment of any cancer as we all know. It is no different for oral cancer, which comprises the largest group of the head and neck cancers. Two of the most common known causes are the use of tobacco and alcohol & HPV16(human papilloma virus version 16). There is also a small percentage of the population who develop oral cancer due to unknown cause, thought to be genetic.

It is important to see your dentist on a regular basis not only for a cleaning and cavity detection but also for a regular check for any abmormalities in and around your mouth. When diagnosed early, the survival rate from an oral cancer is 80 to 90%. If you have any changes in the appearance of your mouth or lips, please call for an appointment: Your health depends on it.

The above information is for general information and educational purposes only and does not constitute health or medical advice. Consult a qualified dentist or physician to determine an individualized treatment plan and for an accurate medical diagnosis and 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., PA nor any other party involved in the publication of this paper make guarantees of any kind to it's accuracy, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose and are not responsible for errors or omissions of any kind.

Effects of Chemotherapy on Your Mouth

If you are going to be starting chemotherapy, you should visit your dentist before your treatment begins. Ideally, 1 month before so that you can get any problems taken care of. If time does not permit, at least have a cleaning and exam. Inform the dentist that you are beginning treatment.

Chemotherapy drugs kill cancer cells and can also kill some normal cells, even in your mouth. You may experience side effects from the chemotherapy drugs on your gums, tongue and the lining of your mouth.

Some of these side effects include:

• Painful gums and mouth
• Dry mouth
• Painful tongue
• Changes in taste

Here are some tips on oral care during your treatments:

• Keep your mouth moist with water and /or sugarless gum.
• Brush and floss daily using fluoride tooth paste and a soft brush
• Don't use mouthwash that contains alcohol
• Rinse with warm salt water -1/4 tsp salt, 6 oz warm water
• Avoid foods that are sharp, crunchy and spicy
• Limit citrus juice, the acid can irritate your mouth
• Avoid alcohol and cigarettes

The above information is for general information and educational purposes only and does not constitute health or medical advice. Consult a qualified dentist or physician to determine an individualized treatment plan and for an accurate medical diagnosis and 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., PA nor any other party involved in the publication of this paper make guarantees of any kind to it's accuarcy, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose and are not responsible for errors or omissions of any kind.

Burning Mouth Syndrome

Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) causes chronic burning pain in your mouth. This pain may affect the tongue, lips, gums, insidde of cheeks, roof of your mouth, or widespread areas of the mouth.

Symptoms of BMS can include:

• Burning sensation
• Sore mouth
• Loss of taste
• Increased thirst
• Dry mouth
• Taste changes(metallic taste)
• Mouth pain that gets worse as the day progresses
• Tingling or numb sensation in the mouth or on the tip of the tongue

Possible causes of BMS:

• Lack of estrogen
  
• GERD (Reflux disease)
  
• Zinc or B vitaman deficiency
  
• Damage to tongue and mouth nerves
  
• Iron deficiency
  
• Hypothyroidism
  
• Oral Cancer
  
• Sensitivity to food additives, dyes, fragrances or flavors
  

Treatments for BMS can include:

• Vitamin therapy
• Black Cohosh ( herbal remedy)
• Hormone replacement therapy
• Medications for pain

If you experience any of the above symptoms, see your Dentist for a complete evaluation.

The above information is for general information and educational purposes only and does not constitute health or medical advice. Consult a qualified dentist or physician to determine an individualized treatment plan and for an accurate medical diagnosis and 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., PA nor any other party involved in the publication of this paper make guarantees of any kind to it's accuarcy, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose and are not responsible for errors or omissions of any kind.

Latex Allergies

Natural rubber latex is made from the milky substance found in rubber trees. Latex is found in many medical and dental products such as gloves, masks, syringes, tape and bandages. Some people are hypersensitive to natural rubber latex which can cause an allergic reaction.

An allergy to latex can develop after repeated exposure to products made of natural rubber latex. Healthcare workers are particularly suseptible since they are constantly exposed to latex products. Symptoms of a latex allergy can vary in severity from hives or nasal congestion to anaphylaxis, a potentially life threatening condition if left untreated.

If you have had an adverse reaction to latex, consult your physician to determine the best way to deal with the allergy. Inform your dentist and his/her staff so they can put an alert on your chart and take the proper precautions.

Fun Facts!

Abraham Lincoln issued a 'Thanksgiving Proclamation' on October 3, 1863 and officially designated the last Thursday of November as the national day for Thanksgiving.

Prior to that date, Presidents made an annual proclamation to specify the day when Thanksgiving was to be held.

The above information is for general information and educational purposes only and does not constitute health or medical advice. Consult a qualified dentist or physician to determine an individualized treatment plan and for an accurate medical diagnosis and 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., PA nor any other party involved in the publication of this paper make guarantees of any kind to it's accuarcy, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose and are not responsible for errors or omissions of any kind.

Sleep Apnea and Dental Care

We are hearing more and more about sleep apnea, which is a very serious sleep disorder. This disorder involves breathing that stops and starts repeatedly while one is sleeping. This can happen hundreds of times per night.

There are 3 types of Sleep Apnea

• Obstructive- Most common form that happens when throat muscles relax
• Central- happens when the brain doesn't send correct signals to the muscles that control breathing
• Complex- not as common and is a combination of Obstructive & Central

According to the National Institute of Health, sleep apnea affects more than 12 million Americans, mainly obese males over the age of 40. Sleep Apnea untreated can affect blood pressure, depression, erectile function and memory. It can lead to concentration impairment and cardiovascular diseaase. Fatigue is common since the disorder disrupts sleep. Interestingly, sleep apnea is the leading cause of car accidents both during the day and at night.

Symptoms

• Loud snoring
• Gasping for air or choking while sleeping
• Headaches each morning
• Poor memory
• Difficulty concentrating
• Waking up with a sore throat or dry mouth
• Frequent urination during the night
• Restless moving
• Waking yourself up from snoring or lack of air

Treatment

• Sleep Study to determine is sleep apnea is the correct diagnosis
• CPAP- Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machine that delivers air pressure through a mask that is placed over your nose while you sleep.
• Adjustable Airway Pressure Device- this may help if there continues to be a problem with the CPAP . It adjusts the pressure automatically while you sleep.
• Oral Appliance- Appliances work when other methods don't. These appliances bring your jaw forward and keep the throat open.
• Surgery-Surgery is done to remove excess tissue from the nose and throat that may be causing vibrations, which causes snoring and blockage of the upper air passages.

If you feel you or someone you know may be suffering from sleep apnea, we recommend you make an appointment with your medical doctor or a sleep specialist for a proper diagnosis.

The above information is for general information and educational purposes only and does not constitute health or medical advice. Consult a qualified dentist or physician to determine an individualized treatment plan and for an accurate medical diagnosis and 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., PA nor any other party involved in the publication of this paper make guarantees of any kind to it's accuarcy, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose and are not responsible for errors or omissions of any kind.

Dental Trauma

Dental trauma may be inflicted by sports related accidents, car accidents, falls, fights, or eating hard foods.  The trauma that may occur can be a tooth that is knocked out, cracked or fractured, pushed out of position, or loosened by impact.  Because oral tissues are sensitive, injuries to the mouth are typically very painful.  These type of injuries should receive prompt treatment from a dentist.

A permanent tooth that has been knocked out is a dental emergency.  If possible, the tooth should be reinserted in the socket and held there until a dentist can be seen.  If it's not possible to replace the tooth in the socket, the tooth should be placed in milk, saliva, or cool water with a pinch of saline solution. 

For lesser dental trauma, soft tissue injuries may only require cold compresses or ice to reduce swelling.  Bleeding can be controlled with direct pressure with a clean gauze pad.  Pain may be managed with aspirin or acetaminophen. 

Treatment of a broken tooth will vary depending on severity of the fracture.

Since many of the dental emergencies we see are sports related, it is wise for children to wear a mouth guard when playing contact sports.

Please be aware that each individual is different and that the above does not apply to everyone. Only a qualified dentist in consultation with you can determine what may or may not be beneficial to your conditions. 

Flouride and Bottled Water

Communities have been fluoridating their water supply since 1945.  The American Dental Association continues to endorse this practice. Fluoridated water has been proven to reduce tooth decay by 20 to 40% and improve the oral health of millions of Americans.  Many of the brands of bottled water on the market do not contain the optimum levels of fluoride(0.7-1.2 ppm).  Some home water filtration systems also remove naturally occuring and enhanced levels of fluoride from the water.

The ADA recommends that patients investigate the level of flouride in their community water supply.  If you use a home filtration system, check to see how much fluoride is filtered out.  If bottled water is your primary source of drinking water, discuss fluoride supplementation with your child's pediatrician.  You can also contact the bottled water company for the levels of fluoride contained in their product.

The above information is for general education purposes only and does not constitute health or medical advice. Consult a qualified dentist to determine an individualized treatment plan.

Mouthwashes - Should I Use One?

Mouthwashes are used as an adjunct to brushing & flossing. Most mouthwashes are effective oral antiseptics that freshen & reduce bad breath; however, other mouthwashes are targeted to specific needs.

The type of mouthwash one should use depends on their specific needs which can include the following:

Anticavity/Fluoride - These mouthwashes contain fluoride. This is a simple, effective, and clinically proven way to prevent tooth decay. Anticavity/fluoride rinses on the market include:

• ACT
• Fluorigard
• Tom's of Maine
• Listerine Total Care

Antiplaque - These are designed to be used as a pre-brushing rinse to help loosen plaque. Studies show only a 20-25% effectiveness in plaque reduction. However, if rinsing, along with brushing & flossing, make you more diligent about your home care, then by all means, rinse away. Plax & Viadent are two OTC pre brushing rinses.

Antimicrobial - Listerine products reduce the bacteria found in plaque, therefore, they help combat gingivitis. Peridex is a prescription strength antimicrobial rinse often prescribed by periodontists and oral surgeons post surgery.

CoQ10 rinses - Helps to prevent and recerse the beginning symptoms of gum disease. One brand name is JASON and can be found online, in health food stores and at Wegmans.

Fun Facts!

Did you know that tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the body?

Snacking on carrots, celery and apples helps clean away food debris!!

Toothbrushes should be changed every 2-3 months and after an illness such as a cold or flu.

(Source- American Dental Hygiene Association)

The above information is for general education purposes only and does not constitute health or medical advice. Consult a qualified dentist to determine an individualized treatment plan.

Which toothpaste is right for you?

Just take a walk down the toothpaste aisle in the supermarket and you are presented with numerous choices. The following information will answer some questions you may have. Characteristics of today's toothpaste include:

• Fluoride- Fluoride can help in the prevention of cavities. Most toothpaste contains fluoride. Studies show that the most effective concentration of fluoride is around .1%.
• Treatment of sensitivity- Sensodyne is the brand widely recognized for the relief of sensitivity. The main ingredients are Strontium Chloride, found in original Sensodyne, and Potassium Nitrate.
• Abrasiveness- We do not recommend a highly abrasive toothpaste.
• Ph level- Toothpastes are mainly base and that is what you want.
• Whitening formulas- These contain tiny mildly abrasive particles that help to remove stain, thus making your teeth look whiter.
• Flavor- Use any that appeals to you.
• Plaque prevention- Colgate Total contains Triclosan to help fight plaque buildup.
• Pronamel- This toothpaste fights sensitivity and erosion or recession. Erosion can be caused by acidic foods. Recession can be caused by over aggressive brushing or periodontal disease. Pronamel helps to strengthen the enamel. It contains Potassium Nitrate and fluoride.

The most important thing to remember is that frequent and effective brushing and flossing along with your toothpaste will help you to maintain good oral health.

The above information is for general education purposes only and does not constitute health or medical advice. Consult a qualified dentist to determine an individualized treatment plan.

Remineralization

Demineralization occurs when acid from bacteria, food, drinks, and our body dissolves the tooth enamel & reduces important minerals from the tooth surface. Remineralization is when important minerals are added back into the teeth where the acid has eroded.

Over the past 10-20 years, there has definitely been a shift in our understanding and management of cavities. Now, rather than focusing on the end result (the cavity), the focus has started to shift to the status of the bacterial plaque and its effects on the demineralization-remineralization process at the tooth surface and subsurface.

What we know for sure is that the tooth can be remineralized. While our body helps to remineralize teeth, there are products available to aid the natural processes. Currently, there are a number of calcium-phosphate-based remineralizing toothpastes, mouth rinses, foams, gels, gum, and more. These products will help patients fight cavities and reverse others that have not progressed beyond the enamel.

There are other ways to treat and prevent tooth decay:

• Increase more arginine in the diet. Eat more spinach, soy, seafood, and nuts.
• Brush with baking soda, or apply your regular toothpaste and then dip it in baking soda.
• Xylitol is a great preventive aid. Look for gum that has xylitol in it.
• Combat dry mouth with hydration and an at home fluoride rinse or gel
  
  

If you have any additional questions or concerns regarding this suject, please feel free to contact us. Our email address is dentalinfo@drdaviddersh.com.

The above information is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute health or medical advice. Consult a qualified dentist to determine an individualized treatment plan.

Gingival Recession

Receding gums is a condition found most common in adults over the age of 40. Therefore, we felt it would be a topic well received by many of our patients. We hope you find this article beneficial.

Recession refers to the roots of the teeth being exposed caused by a loss of gum tissue or retraction of the gingival margin from the crown of the teeth. Although it is a common problem in adults over the age of 40, it can occur starting in the teens.


There are several possible causes of gingival recession:
* Abnormal tooth position
* Thin, fragile or insufficient gingival tissue
* Overaggressive brushing
* Periodontal disease
* Inadequate brushing or flossing (allows bacteria to build up between the teeth)
* Eating disorders (self inducing vomiting)
* Dipping tobacco (it affects the mucus membrane lining in the mouth and cause receding
gums over time)
* Adult orthodontic movement of teeth
* Piercings in the lip or tongue (wears away the gum by rubbing against it)
* Sensitivity to Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), an ingredient in most commercial toothpastes

The following signs and symptoms may indicate gum recession:

* Sensitive teeth
* Teeth may appear longer than normal (if gums are receded, a larger part of the crown in visible)
* The roots of the teeth are exposed and visible
* The tooth feels notched at the gumline
* Change in the tooth's color (color difference between enamel and the root)
* Larger spaces between teeth (gums don't fill in between anymore)
* Cavities below the gum line (roots are more susceptible to decay due to the softness of the
root surface)

If gum recession is caused by gingivitis, the following symptoms may also be present:

* Puffy, red, or inflamed gums
* Gums bleeding while brushing or flossing
* Bad breath (halitosis)

The first step to treatment is the address the problem which has caused the recession.

Some advice to arrest the recession or prevent it is:

* Use a soft toothbrush
* Gentle brushing technique
* Improved oral hygiene
* Regular dental check ups and cleanings

For more advanced cases, treatment may include:
* Soft tissue graft surgery which uses tissue from another site in the patients' mouth to replace receded gums
* New research is focusing on using stem cells to culture the patients' own gums to replace receded gums

Most cases of recession can be monitored, coupled with changes in technique or hygiene, and may never require invasive treatment. If you have any questions regarding recession, please feel free to talk to us about it on your next visit, or email us at dentalinfo@drdaviddersh.com.

- Dr. David A. Dersh, Tracy, & Phyllis

The above information is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute health or medical advice. Consult a qualified dentist to determine an individualized treatment plan.

Beware of Acid and the Effects It Has on Your Teeth

We all have our vices. It might be soft drinks, coffee with sugar, wine, fruit and juices, energy drinks, or sucking on hard candies. But are you aware of the harmful effects these can have on your teeth?

The acid in food and liquids can cause irreversible erosion of tooth enamel. The results of the erosion can include, pain, sensitivity, higher incidence of decay, and a darker appearance in your teeth because the layer below the white enamel is a darker shade.

Generally, teeth affected by this type of damage cannot always be fixed with fillings; more often the treatment consists of veneers or crowns.

The following are ways to minimize the damage:

* Limit consumption of high-acid foods and drinks
* Use a straw for soda or juice - it helps minimize contact with the teeth
* Eating acidic foods as part of a meal will help neutralize and eliminate acids. The worst time to consume these foods is just before bedtime (saliva production decreases during sleep)
* Neutralize acid consumption by eating cheese or swishing with water or a fluoride rinse
* Brush your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste 30 minutes before consuming acidic food or drinks is most beneficial
* Chewing sugar-free gum can help stimulate saliva, therefore, neutralizing the acid in your mouth

People who suck on lemon or orange slices, as well as runners who suck on hard candies while they run, are "bathing their teeth in acid". That's not a good idea.

In addition to acidic foods and drinks, people with eating disorders, such as bulimia, are at a high risk of enamel erosion due to the vomiting. Many people have acid relux who are also at risk because of the acid that may be coming into their mouths from their digestive systems.

If you suspect you or a family member may be suffering from any of the above conditions, you should be evalulated by a medical doctor for a diagnosis.

The above information is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute health or medical advice. Consult a qualified dentist to determine an individualized treatment plan.

Dental Sealants - A Quick Guide from the DMD

Dental sealants are used to seal the chewing surface of children's back teeth (molars). It is the molars that have pits and grooves on the biting surface and are, therefore, more susceptible to decay.

The age of the child may vary on when the sealants are placed depending on the eruption of the molars. The first permanent molars erupt at around 6 years of age, but some children will experience the eruption earlier or later. However, the molar must be fully erupted (fully positioned above the gum) before a sealant can be placed. The second permanent molars usually erupt around 12 years of age, but, again, this will vary in each child.

Not all teeth require the protection that dental sealants provide. It is the shape of the grooves and pits that place some teeth at a greater risk than others. Children with deep and narrow grooves have a more urgent need for sealants.

How long a dental sealant lasts will vary. A sealant in place for 3-5 years would be considered a success. However, any length of time a sealant is in place and protecting the tooth is beneficial. Many sealants placed on the teeth of children can remain intact in the grooves as an adult.

If you notice a portion or even the entire sealant has come off, you should let your dentist know. Additionally, the integrity of the sealants should be checked at 6 month recall visits.

The procedure for placing a sealant requires no drilling. The tooth is first etched with a liquid to prepare the tooth for the sealant. Then a flowable material is applied to the chewing surface of the tooth and then cured with a light to harden the material.

In addition to dental sealants, a dentist will consider other variables that might contribute to decay. This should include the amount of plaque that is present, the amount of decay in the past, and the patient's exposure to fluoride.

David A. Dersh, DMD, PA 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. We work with individuals and organizations to provide efficient and cost-effective dental care.


The above information is for general education purposes only and does not constitute health or medical advice. Consult a qualified dentist to determine an individualized treatment plan. Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the contents of this article are current, accurate and complete, neither David A. Dersh, DMD, PA nor any other party involved in the publication of this article 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.

How are Gum Disease & Heart Disease Related?

Research has found that people with gum disease double their chance of suffering from coronary artery disease.

There are several theories to explain the link between the two diseases.

* Oral bacteria can affect the heart when they enter the bloodstream by attaching themselves to fatty plaques in the blood vessels.
* Inflammation caused by gum disease increases plaque build up, which may lead to swelling of the arteries.
* Gum disease can also exacerbate existing heart conditions
* Gum disease may cause oral bacterial components to enter the bloodstream & cause the
liver to make C-reactive proteins; these proteins are a predictor for an increased risk for
cardiovascular disease.


There is still much research to be done on understanding the exact link between gum disease & heart disease; however, monitoring your gum health should be a regular part of your overall health screenings.

*DISCLAIMER: The above information is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute health or medical advice. Consult a qualified dentist or physician to determine an individualized treatment plan.

Vitamin Deficiency and Oral Health

How do the following items relate to your oral health?

Vitamin D
Vitamin D is essential for strong bones and teeth. A deficiency can increase the risk of a jaw fracture and periodontal disease. A vitamin deficiency early in life can affect the formation of teeth.

Good sources of Vitamin D include fish liver oils , fortified milk and milk products, egg yolk and some cereals.

Folic Acid
Folic Acid, part of Vitamin B family is also an essential nutrient. A folic acid deficiency can also cause a burning sensation in your mouth. Folic acid is also very important during pregnancy.

Iron
Iron is essential for the formation of red blood cells .Iron deficiency is caused by a poor diet or medical conditions that prevent absorption of the iron you do consume. Iron deficiency can cause the same symptoms as Vitamin B deficiency.
Sources of Iron include Lean meat, liver, leafy green vegetables, beans, shellfish, and whole grain bread

Vitamin K
Vitamin K helps to make proteins that help the blood to clot. Individuals with Vitamin K deficiency may bleed excessively after an extraction or a teeth cleaning.
Foods which provide Vitamin K include, broccoli, green leafy vegetables, milk, brussel sprouts, eggs and beef.

A balanced diet is essential for overall good health. Good nutrition, along with regular medical and dental check ups, can help you to live a healthy life and avoid illness.
If you think you may be deficient in any area, see your doctor.

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