Dental Wellness Center Blog

Holistic Dental office in Long Beach tests for systemic health risks.

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 00:42:00 GMT

(continued) The second test that helps us determine your systemic health risk is Average Blood Surgar(HbA1c). On those occasions when blood glucose is high, the hemoglobin in the blood may be marked or "glycated." The percentage of the hemoglobin that is glycated is an indication of your level of glucose control over the last two months. A value of less than 5% is normal, a value over 7% is considered diabetic, and 6%-7% is considered prediabetic. Since periodontal bacteria in the bloodstream can increase blood sugar and HbA1c levels, treating the periodontal disease will reduce HbA1c scores and lower your diabetes risk.
The results of these tests will be reviewed with you at your next appointment. At that time we will create a plan for your health. The good news is you can choose to replace the vicious cycle with the health cycle.

Robert McBride, DDS in Long Beach offers two simple "finger stick" tests which could save your life!

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 23:35:00 GMT

Knowing you have periodontal disease is the first step. The next step toward health is to determine if the disease is impacting your systemic health. There are two simple "finger stick" tests done at the Dental Wellness Center which will help you determine your systemic health risk. The tests are: High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (CRP). C-Reactive Protein is a protein produced in the liver that circulates in the blood. CRP levels increase when the body is fighting off an infection or when inflammation is present. Blockages in blood vessels called plaque are collections of products contained in cells, including CRP. Elevated levels of CRP may predict risk of heart attack up tp eight years in advance, can also increase the risk of a heart attack by seven fold, and are also an indication of cancerous activity. While most people over the age of 40 have annual cholesterol testing, CRP testing is new. Since 50% of people who have heart attackes or stroke have normal cholesterol levels, adding CRP testing can increase the predictability of heart attack or stroke. If you have High CRP because of inflammation, removing the inflammation can lower the CRP and may reduce the risk of future coronary events.

Dr. McBride in Long Beach shares how Full denture care is as different from other types of dentistry as night and day

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 23:51:00 GMT

Full denture care is as different from other types of dentistry as night and day. Replacing 28 teeth in an empty mouth in a manner that will allow for proper chewing, comfort and natural appearance requires a proper execution of many factors. When a person has no teeth, there are no exact guidelines as to where to place the new ones, whereas with a fixed or removable bridge, the surrounding teeth offer a positional template for replacement of the missing one(s). When bridge teeth replacements are placed, if the color match is good and the fit and "bite" are right, it is the end of treatment. On the other hand, with Full Denture Care, the day of placement is actually the beginning of treatment.

The success I have with my full denture patients is the result of time allotted in the beginning to review the patient’s medical and dental histories, and a careful and thorough oral examination. People vary considerably in their mouth architecture (size and shape of the remaining ridges - gum and supporting bone), general health, oral dexterity, attitude and expectations. Dentures have hard, unyielding undersides that are placed over thin gum tissue, which covers the bone, therefore treatment time and methods can vary, depending on the relative quality of hard and soft tissue of the ridges.

This is why, prior to starting actual treatment, time is taken to collect all the above data so that an estimate can be made for the patient as to what to expect of new dentures, projected treatment time, and fee. When dentures are fabricated in a proper manner, there should be virtually no restrictions in handling a healthy diet.

It is an interesting fact that the materials used in the making of dentures cost essentially the same no matter what the treatment philosophy is of the dentist, or the age of the patient. Treatment results are based on the passion, skill, care and experience rendered by the dentist woven within his/her philosophy of care, not so much the materials. Also important is the commitment of both the dentist and patient to the prescribed care – a real partnership. A tenet of The Academy of Prosthodontic Research in which I have participated for many years, is a realization by its members that full denture service is one of the more difficult, unique and specialized aspects of dentistry. Each member realizes that we offer a complex service, its goal being the resolution of our patient's problems rather than "selling teeth."

Dr. McBride in Long Beach talks about Pregnancy and Oral Health

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 00:03:00 GMT

Pregnancy and Oral Health
How does pregnancy affect my oral health? It's a myth that calcium is lost from the mother's teeth and "one tooth is lost with every pregnancy." But you may experience some changes in your oral health during pregnancy. The primary change is it surge in hormones - particularly an increase in estrogen and progesterone -which is linked to an increase in the amount of plaque on your teeth.

How does a build-up of plaque affect me? If the plaque isn't removed, it can cause gingivitis-red, swollen, tender gums that are more likely to bleed. So-called "pregnancy gingivitis" affects most pregnant women to some degree, and generally begins to surface in the second trimester. If you already have gingivitis, the condition is likely to worsen during pregnancy. If untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease, a more serious form of gum disease.

Pregnant women are also at risk for developing pregnancy tumors, inflammatory, benign growths that develop when swollen gums become irritated. Normally, the tumors are left alone and will usually shrink on their own, but if a tumor is very uncomfortable and interferes with chewing, brushing or other oral hygiene procedures, the dentist may decide to remove it.

How can I prevent these problems? You can prevent gingivitis by keeping your teeth clean, especially near the gumline. You should brush with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day and after each meal when possible. You should also floss thoroughly each day. If tooth brushing causes morning sickness, rinse your mouth with water or with anti-plaque and fluoride mouthwashes. Good nutrition-Particularly plenty of vitamin C and B12-help keep the oral cavity healthy and strong. More frequent cleanings from the dentist will help control plaque and prevent gingivitis. Controlling plaque also will reduce gum irritation and decrease the likelihood of pregnancy tumors.

Invisible braces now available at the Dental Wellness center in Long Beach

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 23:13:00 GMT

What is ClearCorrect?
ClearCorrect™ is an amazing new alternative to braces. Rather than having the permanent hardware of traditional braces affixed to your teeth, you now have the option of a removable, clear aligner that will gradually straighten your teeth. Your ClearCorrect™ treatment system is personalized for your teeth. Every two weeks you will remove your current aligner and move to the next aligner that has been carefully calculated to shift your teeth to the next phase in the straightening process. We will take an impression of your mouth and create for you an aligner made of clear thermoplastic material. This custom made treatment insures that your smile is a perfect fit for you.

Long Beach Holistic dentist regimens to manage tooth hypersensitivity

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 22:16:00 GMT

What can the dentist do for my sensitive teeth?
Dr. McBride and the hygienist have a variety of regimens to manage tooth hypersensitivity, including both in-office treatments and patient-applied products for home use. If you are diagnosed with dentin hypersensitivity, Dr. McBride may apply a desensitizing agent or a protective coating. We have a treatment of inorganic salts that can be painted on the exposed dentin (the sensitive part) which provides an insulation and desensitization of the nerve endings. This desensitization is ideal for persons that find the sensitivity is noticeable when they attempt to drink cold beverages or touch their teeth. It can last between three months to over a year before reapplication.

You may be prescribed a stannous fluoride gel or an over-the-counter desensitizing toothpaste containing fluoride and either potassium nitrate or strontium chloride. These ingredients help block transmission of sensation from the tooth to the nerve. It also might help to massage the special paste onto your gums with your finger after brushing. This must be reapplied daily to usually continue to keep the teeth from becoming sensitive again.

"Permanent" desensitization can be difficult to achieve. A tooth can be filled if there is a hole or crevice in the tooth at the sensitive part, but can fall out if the cause of the hole or crevice was not treated. Consult Dr. McBride whether or not this is an option for your situation.
What should I do after the dentist has applied a desensitizing agent?

Listen closely to Dr. McBride's instructions. He may advise you not to eat or drink for a short period of time to eliminate all sources of irritation, such as acidic foods or medication, highly concentrated foods or flavored toothpastes. You may also be instructed to change oral hygiene habits that are likely to cause abrasion or use a daily fluoride application (a rinse or brush-on gel.)

When is it time to see Dr. McBride in Long Beach when you have a sensitive tooth?

Tue, 14 Dec 2010 17:10:00 GMT

How do I know when it's time to see a dentist? Is it more like a toothache?
If a tooth is highly sensitive for more than three or four days and reacts to hot and cold temperatures, it's best to get a diagnostic evaluation from Dr. McBride to determine the extent of the problem. Before taking the situation into your own hands, an accurate diagnosis of tooth sensitivity is essential for effective treatment to eliminate pain. Because pain symptoms can be similar, some people might think that a tooth is sensitive, when instead they actually have a fracture, cavity or abscess that's not yet visible.

How do I describe my symptoms to the dentist?
Sensitivity may be defined as a short sharp pain, which is usually initiated by hot or cold foods or exposure to cold air. Aching often follows. Because sensitivity may mean different things to a patient and dental professional, be sure to clarify exactly what you feel when you discuss the condition with Dr. McBride. Be sure to tell him when the pain started and if there is anything, such as the application of a warm compress, that helps eliminate the pain.

Do some products work to help decrease sensitivity?
Toothpastes for sensitive teeth usually contain a desensitizing agent that protects the exposed dentin by blocking the tubes in the teeth that are connected to nerves. In most cases, these products must be used on a regular basis for at least a month before any therapeutic benefits may be noticed.

Dr. McBride dentist in Long Beach talks about how you can avoid tooth sensitivtiy

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 16:43:00 GMT

Is tooth sensitivity a common condition?
Sensitive teeth is one of the most common complaints among dental patients. At least 45 million adults in the United States and 5 million Canadians suffer at some time from sensitive teeth.

How can I avoid sensitivity?
Some toothpastes contain abrasive ingredients that may be too harsh for people who have sensitive teeth. Ingredients found in some whitening toothpastes that lighten and/or remove certain stains from enamel, or sodium pyrophosphate, the key ingredient in tartar control toothpastes may increase tooth sensitivity. To prevent sensitivity from occurring, use a soft bristled toothbrush. Avoid using hard bristled toothbrushes and brushing your teeth too hard, which can wear down the tooth's root surface and expose sensitive spots. The way to find out if you're brushing your teeth too hard is to take a good look at your toothbrush. If the bristles are pointing in multiple directions, you're brushing too hard.

Holistic Dentist in Long Beach talks about Tooth Sensitivity/Toothache

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 16:53:00 GMT

Why are my teeth sensitive?
Tooth sensitivity is caused by the stimulation of nerve cells within tiny tubules located in the dentin (the layer of tissue found beneath the hard enamel that contains the inner pulp). When the hard enamel is worn down or gums have receded causing the tiny tubules to be exposed pain can be caused by eating or drinking food and beverages that are hot or cold; touching your teeth; or exposing them to cold air.

Hot and cold temperature changes cause your teeth to expand and contract. Over time, your teeth can develop microscopic cracks that allow these sensations to seep through to the nerves. Exposed areas of the tooth can cause pain and even affect or change your eating, drinking and breathing habits. Taking a spoonful of ice cream, for example, can be a painful experience for people with sensitive teeth.

"We are each unique individuals" says Dr. McBride, a Holistic dentist in Long Beach, CA .

Wed, 24 Nov 2010 00:45:00 GMT

Through studying, teaching and practicing dentistry for over 35 years I have come to realize the amazing uniqueness of each person’s oral system. The teeth are just part of a complex network that includes the supporting structures (gum and bone), jaw joints (TMJs), surrounding muscles, ligaments, blood vessels and nerves. Ongoing research continues to show the relationship between one’s oral and general health and that each influences the other. Realizing these factors, my practice is based on my learning about you, your health goals, and then an oral examination and diagnosis. Secondly, having you learn what I’ve discovered in an understandable manner so that you will know your preventive and treatment options and the rationale behind them. This way we can work as partners from co-developed goals. The website was developed in order to express the uniqueness of this practice based on these realities, and to assist you, a potential patient, in discovering whether your health values resonate with those that are incorporated within the practice.

How a Holistic dentist in Long Beach deals with BAD BREATH.

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 00:07:00 GMT

The hygienist will assess the state of their gum health, perhaps with the Halometer to legitimize the problem. It is usually found that the person has unhealthy gums, and teeth cleanings and home care instructions are given. This is borne out by American Dental Association statistics indicate that 85 - 90 percent of all adults will have some form of gum disease during their lifetime.

Our Dental Wellness Center has been a breath center for over 25 years. Dr. McBride's study of oral microbiology led to the use of laboratory microscopes in our office. It is well-known that bacteria enter the blood stream through "leaky gums" and are contributing factors in coronary disease, diabetes and low birth weight babies.

In our office, the source of the problem is identified for each patient by assessing the types and numbers of oral bacteria. Our hygienist has a scholastic background in microbiology and the use of the microscope. Appropriate regimens are prescribed for each patient based upon individual microscopic and periodontal assessments. Gum infection is eliminated or controlled, healthy gums are developed with an added benefit - the person now has sweet breath and knows how to keep it that way.

Got Bad Breath? Dr. McBride in Long Beach explains why.

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 17:38:00 GMT

Got Breath?
Bad breath (a.k.a. oral malodor/fetor oris/halitosis) is a very common but insidious human predicament, in that it is rarely experienced by the offender. Since it is so personal, the one having it may never get a clue from those affected by it.

Studies indicate that this condition arises directly from either exhaled digestive gases, various conditions within the mouth, or a combination of both. Dental plaque bacteria that reside between the teeth and gums, tongue, and cheeks can absorb certain foods that have a high content of volatile sulfur compounds (VSC's). This alone can be offensive, especially the morning after a meal high in VSC's. Aside from the foods that have a high content of VSC's, the plaque by itself that causes gum disease (periodontal disease or pyorrhea), is definitely the most common cause of bad breath. Add to this, high VSC foods such as garlic, etc., and you have a walking halitosis factory - an offender usually not "in the know".

How a Holistic Dentist in Long Beach deals with Dental Fears

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 20:52:00 GMT

It is true that 80% of the population stays away from the dentist on a regular basis. Although most would rather be somewhere else than at the dentist, there are those who only seek dental care when their pain level exceeds that of their fear. Most often fear starts from negative past dental experiences involving lack of compassion, lack of adequate time to inform, pain during treatment or a combination of the above. Many of my “dental converts” have told me that they would actually become nauseous or undergo a panic attack even while picking up the phone to call the dentist. Although we can use relaxation medications or nitrous oxide/oxygen (“laughing gas“) to “get the work done”, most of these patients indicate that the most important thing that helped with their fear was the time given to be truly heard & understood, which is crucial in the development of a trusting, therapeutic relationship. True wellness involves allowing enough time to listen, because people don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care. A dentist who cares will be compassionate and have the stage set to listen to his patients and understand the nature of their fears, possible misgivings or skepticism. It is only through this that the mistrust barrier can be broken. Although I believe that it is extremely important to deliver high quality dental treatment, it is equally important to have an atmosphere of mutual trust. This is necessary to create magic through proper diagnostic, preventive and restorative care that can change and extend people’s lives!

Long Beach Dentist shares his Mission Statement

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 23:03:00 GMT

The mission of the Dental Wellness Center is to teach its patients about the unique nature of their oral status through a co-learning process between doctor and patient that empowers them to make informed choices regarding its future. Health is not a commodity that can be dispensed – it is the result of a dual commitment between the doctor and patient based on transparency and trust developed along a diagnostic path of co-discovery, resulting in patient confidence through the knowledge acquired therein.

Improper teeth meshing, or malocclusion, can be a result of several factors

Tue, 12 Oct 2010 23:44:00 GMT

When you think of it, the way the teeth mesh when closed together and during chewing function are the only real dictate of the positions of the TMJ’s, which are somewhat of a “hinge” affair. Unlike a door, however, that won’t close properly within its jamb if the hinges were placed incorrectly, the jaw joints, are somewhat pliable, having a cartilage disk between the ball and socket, and unlike the door hinges, they can be compressed or stretched out of their proper positions when the teeth contact to accommodate the off-bite. This is essentially verified by the fact that people without teeth rarely have “TMJ.” Even people with the well-made dentures can exhibit only 25% of the pressure on their TMJ’s and surrounding areas compared to that of people with their natural teeth. Improper teeth meshing, or malocclusion, can be a result of several factors, including a naturally poor bite, trauma, dental treatment such as fillings, crowns and bridges and orthodontic treatment that were undertaken without a consideration of how teeth relate to each other with proper occlusion, i.e., a healthy bite. I routinely see new patients with bites that don’t match their TMJ’s with the above cited symptoms who are unaware of them being related to their bite. I regularly see upper and lower crowns, bridges and fillings that don’t match, and around one half the patients I treat with TMJ symptoms have undergone orthodontic treatment. The orthodontist may have straightened the teeth, but the treatment ended up without consideration of the proper positioning of the TMJ’s.

For a thorough and detailed description of how TMJ problems are dealt within The Dental Wellness Center, “Bioesthetics, Oral Beauty, Function and Temporomandibular Dysfunction (TMJ”) click on this link: http://www.longbeachholisticdentist.com/LiteratureRetrieve.aspx?ID=40459