Recent Posts
Myths About Geriatric Dentistry
Nov. 15 2017
Oh, the Internet. Although the internet is filled with wonderful, helpful information, unless it’s coming from a source like our blog, it may not be something you can necessarily trust— especially when it comes to your physical or oral health. If you have been scouring the Internet in hopes of finding information on geriatric dentistry, you may have come across a few myths on the way including the following.
Myth: Dry Mouth Is Another Part of Aging
There are some things that are considered to be a normal part of the aging process and some that aren’t. If you suffer from the chronic dry mouth and can’t seem to drink enough water to keep your mouth moist, this may be indicative of an underlying issue. Many elderly patients get dry mouth due to some of the medications they are on, but it isn’t a normal part of aging. By getting an oral exam by Dr. Dean Glasser, he can help pinpoint what is contributing to your dry mouth so that you can find relief.
Myth: Tooth Loss Is Normal
Although tooth loss is more common amongst the elderly, it’s not normal. The most common form of tooth loss in elderly individuals is linked to periodontal disease which can most commonly be prevented by dental hygiene like regular dental cleanings, and daily brushing and flossing. Elderly patients with dementia or Alzheimer's are at an increased risk for periodontal disease or tooth loss due to the lack of basic hygiene.
Myth: Seniors Have Bad Breath
Unless you just went to town on a garlic burger, bad breath is typically a sign that you have an oral infection. If you notice that your breath is getting worse the older you get, schedule an appointment with Dr. Dean Glasser, and we will get to the root of the problem so that you don't have to worry about this inconvenience anymore.
How to Maintain a White Smile
Oct. 15 2017
Even though Halloween is almost here, you don’t need to walk around with a mouth full of black, gray, or even yellow teeth. By staying up-to-date on your dental whitening, you can rest assured that you only look like a ghoul on Halloween. The tricky thing about dental whitening is that for many patients, their teeth start to look a little yellow after just a few cups of coffee--making patients feel like their whitening will never last. From in-office whitening to whitening pens, this article will list a few ways that may help you keep your teeth white all year long.
In Office Whitening
Unless you took a medication like a tetracycline when you were little, and your teeth are permanently stained gray, Dr. Dean Glasser should be able to make your teeth visibly whiter after just a few laser whitening sessions. Depending on how severe your stains are, he may recommend more than one treatment to get the best results possible.
Whitening Toothpaste
If you’re not already brushing with a whitening toothpaste, you are doing your teeth a serious disservice. Over-the-counter whitening toothpaste contains a small amount of hydrogen peroxide that works to rid your teeth of surface stains caused by things such as tomato sauce and coffee— which makes whitening toothpaste something you should consider using every day.
Whitening Pens
Whitening pens hit the market a few years ago and have slowly started to gain popularity. Because you are unable to brush your teeth when you’re at work or out in public, a whitening pen gives you the ability to fight surface stains before they sit on your teeth for too long. All you have to do is remove the cap and paint the whitening solution onto your teeth— it’s is simple as that.
Teeth whitening isn't a one and done kind of thing— it requires routine maintenance. If you have stained teeth that you would like to whiten, contact Dr. Dean Glasser’s office today to schedule an appointment, and we will gladly assist you.
Perfect Your Smile: 3 Ways to Straighter Teeth
Sep. 15 2017
Although having a gap between your two front teeth can make your smile a bit endearing, it can also make you feel self-conscious. If you have a large gap in between your front teeth that are making you feel less like Julia Roberts and more like Anna Paquin, then you may want to have your smile altered by Dr. Dean Glasser. Luckily, we have a variety of different ways that we can help perfect your smile. From braces to veneers, this article will discuss a few of your options. Read on to learn more.
Braces
The most traditional method that we use to close the gap in between your teeth is metal braces. As an affordable and effective option, metal braces can not only help with your mouth’s appearance but also with your bite as well. By pushing your teeth together, braces can perfect your smile and make you feel more like a celebrity in no time.
Dental Bonding
As a temporary way to get rid of the gap in between your teeth, Dr. Dean Glasser may recommend that we use dental bonding. By placing a thin composite resin in between your teeth and then curing it with a light, the gap can be temporarily closed off. Depending on how big the gap is between your teeth will help Dr. Glasser decide if this is a suitable option for you.
Dental Veneers
As a more expensive, yet popular option, dental veneers can help correct almost every type of cosmetic dental related issue. By shaving down your existing teeth and then placing porcelain dental veneers on top, Dr. Dean Glasser can help change the location, size, shape, and color of your teeth.
If you have a gap in between your teeth that is causing you more grief than popularity; you may want to consider one of the options listed above. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact Dr. Dean Glasser today!
3 Dental Myths Your Kids May Fall For
Aug. 15 2017
Yes, it’s true that kids say the darndest things. And since the evolution of the Internet, kids are more likely to read crazy information on the Internet that has no scientific backing— especially when it comes to the dentist. This article will discuss three dental myths your kids may fall for and how to debunk them. Read on to learn more.
Myth #1. The Dentist Is Scary
Although there are enough movies out there about the dentist to give your kids nightmares, the dentist doesn’t have to be scary. In fact, Dr. Dean Glasser will ensure that your child stays calm and comfortable from start to finish. To help your child feel less scared of the dentist, bring them by our office to say hello— they’ll realize that we’re not as scary as they think.
Myth #2: Wetting Your Toothbrush is the Same As Brushing
We all did this at least once when we were kids. Wetting your toothbrush without brushing and lying to our parents saying that we brushed. As a parent, hopefully you’re too smart to fall for this trick. Make sure that your kids know the importance of brushing their teeth both morning and night for at least 60 seconds. By explaining to them that their teeth can get cavities if they’re not properly brushed, you can encourage them to do so on a regular basis.
Myth #3: Baby Teeth Aren’t Important
Because baby teeth fall out and are replaced with adult teeth, many parents and children assume that dental hygiene isn’t important when they’re young. However, kids can still get cavities. By instilling good dental habits in your kids at a young age, you can prepare them for a healthy adulthood. When it comes to teaching your kids about how important their baby teeth are, lead by example and show them the importance of brushing.
Kids can be extremely gullible, but with your guidance, you can teach them what is fact and what is fiction. To learn more about pediatric dental health or to schedule an appointment, contact Dr. Dean Glasser today!
3 Unique Facts About Geriatric Dentistry
Jul. 15 2017
Aging is something that few are excited about but that everyone eventually has to embrace. Not only can aging make you need to slow things down in life, but it can also change how your body functions and performs— including your mouth. Even though you may be in good physical health, your mouth may show signs of decay after you reach the age of 65. For individuals over the age of 65, geriatric dentistry may come as a shock because of all of the unknowns associated with it. To help you feel more informed about your mouth during this stage of life, we have created an article listing three unique facts about geriatric dentistry. Read on to learn more.
Prescription Medications Are An Influencer
According to the American Dental Association, the average individual who is over the age of 65 takes five or more prescription medications daily. These medications include things such as drugs for respiratory conditions, antidepressants, anticoagulants, analgesics, antihypertensive agents, and more. And although these drugs may be helping the rest of your body function, they may be negatively impacting your bone mass and overall oral health.
Cognitive Diseases Make It Worse
Patients who suffer from cognitive diseases such as dementia or Alzheimer's are at an increased risk of dental decay, erosion, and cavities because of the lack of consistent oral care. And because patients who have been diagnosed with these diseases are typically over the age of 65, it’s fair to say that cognitive diseases and geriatric dentistry go hand-in-hand.
It Involves a Lot of Dental Restoration
Geriatric dentistry involves a lot of dental procedures including, but not limited to, the following:
- Replacement Fillings
- Dental Crowns
- Dental Bridges
- Dentures
- Dental Implants
Aging can influence every part of your life, including your oral health. If you are over the age of 65, come into Dean Glasser’s office for a dental exam to make sure that your mouth age just as gracefully as the rest of your body. To learn more about geriatric and other forms of dentistry, contact Dr. Dean Glasser today!
Whiten Your Smile: 3 Tips for Coffee Drinkers
Jun. 15 2017
Unless you get an average of eight or more hours of sleep a night and get an afternoon nap every day, you are likely reaching for either a bit more sleep or an extra cup of coffee. Whether you prefer your coffee black, iced, or as a latte, nothing can make you get out of bed quite like that delicious, freshly brewed drink. However, even though coffee can give you the energy needed to get you through the day, it can also wreak damage on your teeth; weakening the enamel and causing them to turn yellow. Luckily, Dr. Dean Glasser has created a list of three easy ways that you can take care of your teeth if you are a coffee drinker. Read on to learn more.
Drink Water With It
Coffee is not only acidic, but it can stain your teeth as well. To help cut down on the time that the coffee has to interact with your teeth, try drinking water with it. Not only will water dilute the acidity but it will help wash the coffee off of your teeth— leaving them whiter in the process.
Use a Whitening Pen
Whitening pens can easily be found at most drugstores, grocery stores, or supercenters on the toothpaste aisle. Filled with a small amount of hydrogen peroxide, a whitening pen is a small pen-like device that you can brush your teeth after drinking coffee. As soon as you drink your morning cup of coffee, grab the whitening pen and paint it onto your pearly whites.
Dilute It
If you prefer to drink your coffee black, it is more likely to stain your teeth. However, if you dilute your coffee with cream, milk, or even ice cubes, it breaks down the acidity and the ability for it to cause your teeth. If you don’t like drinking cow's milk or if you are lactose intolerant, consider adding almond, soy, or coconut milk to your coffee instead.
Drinking coffee isn’t just a great way to get you up in the morning, but it can be considered a social activity as well. To help protect your smile from the damaging effects of coffee, try drinking water with it, using a whitening pen afterward, and diluting it. To learn more about these and other dental tips, contact Dr. Dean Glasser today!
When Less Is More: Discovering the Benefits of Cam X Spectra
May. 15 2017
More money, more vacation days, a square footage in your house, and more time spent on the beach are all just a few of the things that you likely want more of in your life. However, sometimes there are certain scenarios where less is simply more; including the new Cam X Spectra. As a handheld device that allows Dr. Dean Glasser to take a closer look at your teeth, the Cam X Spectra uses fluorescent light technology to catch dental problems early on. Once the light is used, the images will be transmitted onto a TV screen for both you and Dr. Glasser to analyze. This process will let both Dr. Glasser and you see what areas of your teeth need to be fixed and create a plan. With less invasive procedures, less time spent in the dentist chair, and less discomfort, the Cam X Spectra shows that less, is in fact, more.
Less Invasive Procedures
With Cam X Spectra, Dr. Dean Glasser will be able to catch any oral problems early and start treating them right away. Because dental issues are caught before they get worse with the Cam X Spectra, you won’t have to deal with as many—if any at all—invasive procedures.
Less Time Spent In the Dentist Chair
The more dental problems you have, the more time you have to spend in our office. And although we love seeing all of our patients, you likely have other stuff you want to do with your time. By catching any dental problems early on with the Cam X Spectra, Dr. Dean Glasser will be able to treat it right away and hopefully fix the problem so that you can spend less time in the dentist chair.
Less Discomfort
Both infection and extreme dental procedures can leave you in a whole lot of pain and discomfort. Luckily, by detecting the problem early on with the Cam X Spectra, you can get rid of infections and reduce the likelihood of having to undergo extreme dental procedures—a win, win for you and your mouth.
If you would like to learn more about the Cam X Spectra and how it can make your whole dental experience easier and more efficient, contact Dr. Dean Glasser’s office today to schedule an appointment.
How to Tell if Your Baby is Teething
Apr. 15 2017
If you are a new parent, welcome to the daily guessing game. Although there are pamphlets and thousands of online articles available to help make your life easier, there is no real manual on parenting. And because parenting is a guessing game, it can sometimes see impossible to know if what your baby is going through is normal or if it is something you need to be concerned about— especially when it comes to teething. This article will discuss a few of the most common signs that your baby is teething and how you can spot them. Read on to learn more.
Tons of Drool
Babies are natural droolers, but if you have noticed that your baby is drooling a lot more than usual, this could be a large sign that they are teething. Take a look at how much your baby is drooling. Many babies who are teething, go through several bibs filled with drool each and every day.
Irritable
When babies are hungry, tired, and they need to be changed, they cry and get fussy. However, for the rest of the time, your baby should be pretty content. If you have noticed that your baby is more irritable than usual, this is another sign that they may be teething. Teething is unfortunately very painful for babies who can make them feel grumpy and out of control.
Fever
Not all babies run a fever when they are teething, but a lot of them certainly do. Make sure that your child isn’t exhibiting symptoms of a cold or the flu virus in addition to a fever. If they simply have small fever under 102, but they have the symptoms listed above, then their fever is likely due to teething. To help break their fever and with the permission of their pediatrician, you can give your child baby Tylenol or ibuprofen if they are over six months— this will help to not only lower their fever but make them feel more comfortable.
Having a teething baby is not only miserable for them but you as well. If you think your little one is teething but you just aren’t sure, look for the symptoms listed above. Although not all babies will have these exact symptoms, they are the most common. To learn more about pediatric dentistry, contact Dr. Dean Glasser’s office today.
3 Ways to Ease Your Dental Anxiety
Mar. 15 2017
Going to the dentist isn’t exactly rated on people’s list of “Top 10 favorite things to do.” However, as one of the most important steps in ensuring that you have a clean and healthy smile, coming into Dr. Dean Glasser twice a year will keep your teeth in the best condition possible. Dr. Dean Glasser knows that some patients suffer from dental anxiety that causes them to miss appointments and regular cleanings. If you have dental anxiety, you are not alone— that is why we have created this brief list of three ways that you can ease your anxiety. Read on to learn more.
Deep Breathing
Both before and during your dental exam, try some deep breathing exercises. By slowing down and controlling your breath, you can help alleviate some of the anxieties you are feeling. Slowly inhale through your nose and then exhale through your mouth— focusing on every breath you take.
Remember It’s Never As Bad As You Think It Is
One of the most important things to remember when thinking about your dental procedure is that it is never as bad as you think it is. In fact, you likely imagine things and pain that you will never even experience.
Ask About Sedation
Here at Dr. Glasser’s office, we offer dental sedation to help ease your anxieties and feel calm during your entire procedure. Depending on the type of procedure you are having and the level of anxiety you are suffering from, sedation options include things like laughing gas and oral sedatives. Before you come in for your cleaning or procedure, contact our office to learn more about whether or not you are a suitable candidate for dental sedation.
Dealing with dental anxiety can make even coming into Dr. Dean Glasser seem hard to do. If you would like to learn more about dental anxiety and how it can be treated, contact Dr. Dean Glasser.
50 Shades of Grey: How to Get Whiter Teeth In Time for Valentine’s Day
Feb. 15 2017
The book, 50 Shades of Gray is a sure way to get you and your significant other ready for a hot and steamy Valentine's Day. However, the last gray thing you are going to want to see is a mouth full of gray tinged teeth. Don’t be the person that is repulsing others by their discolored teeth this Valentine’s Day and get your teeth whitened. From at-home whitening kits to in-office treatments, this article will discuss a few quick and easy ways that you can get your teeth white and bright before your Valentine’s kiss. Read on to learn more.
Try a Whitening Toothpaste
If you have never had your teeth whitened before, try using a whitening toothpaste to start out. Filled with a small amount of hydrogen peroxide, an over-the-counter whitening toothpaste will work to remove small surface stains on your teeth caused by food and beverages. Continue to use the whitening toothpaste for about 7-10 days, if you don’t notice a difference consider trying whitening strips.
Try Whitening Strips
Also found over-the-counter, whitening strips contain a stronger bleaching ingredient that can help to whiten your teeth. Available in different strengths, you can get whitening strips that work as fast as 24 hours. Although some people complain of tooth sensitivity following using whitening strips, that should subside after a few days.
In-Office Whitening
If you have tried both whitening toothpaste and strips and still aren’t able to get your teeth white, come into see Dr. Dean Glasser. With either bleaching trays or laser whitening, Dr. Dean Glasser can whiten your teeth so that you are ready for Valentine’s Day.
There are some rare cases in which even with the help of laser whitening, Dr. Dean Glasser won’t be able to whiten your teeth-- such as if your teeth are stained from a medication like a tetracycline. However, by using whitening toothpaste, strips, or in-office whitening, you can get a brighter and whiter smile in virtually no time at all. If you would like to learn more about how you can get whiter teeth, contact Dr. Dean Glasser to schedule an appointment today.
Oh, the Internet. Although the internet is filled with wonderful, helpful information, unless it’s coming from a source like our blog, it may not be something you can necessarily trust— especially when it comes to your physical or oral health. If you have been scouring the Internet in hopes of finding information on geriatric dentistry, you may have come across a few myths on the way including the following.
