Artificial Sweeteners

The use of sweeteners in toothpaste has mainly come about as a response to the concerns over sugars and their effect on dental health. On the flip side, there are also complaints and concerns about the effects of sweeteners on the rest of the body.

One artificial sweetener often used in toothpastes is sorbitol. It can, however, have a laxative effect. This could be worrisome for those most likely to be ingesting toothpaste, such as children. Artificial sweeteners have been anecdotally linked with symptoms such as headaches and nausea. Most experts do not, however, believe they pose a health threat in dental products. There is not any harm in avoiding them if you do have concerns though.

Dyes

Many toothpastes will contain dyes. This is particularly true of products geared for children, where the bright colours are thought to make the toothpaste more appealing. Some of the dyes are inevitably swallowed even after spitting out toothpaste. If you are one of the small number of people who suffer from allergic reactions to the dye, then it is best to avoid coloured toothpastes. Other complaints may include headaches from dyes.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

This chemical is one of the substances that help toothpaste foam up when you brush your teeth. One study linked it with ulcers in the mouth. Some national recommendations support its use while others recommend alternative substances.

Fluoride

Even though fluoride is a naturally occurring substance, some people choose to avoid it due to concerns about its effects on health. A certain amount of fluoride is absorbed into the body due to it being ingested when brushing as well as through some water supplies. It is, however, recommended by most national dental associations for its beneficial effects on teeth.

Young children should still be supervised when brushing to ensure they spit. If you prefer, there are many natural toothpastes on the market today that can do an excellent job of cleaning teeth. They tend to come infused with natural oils and antibacterial substances such as tea tree oil to help prevent tooth decay.

Making Healthy Choices

In most western countries, we have rules and regulations for health and safety when it comes to dental products.

You will have to decide which ingredients pose a risk or could potentially harm your health. This decision may be based on your own reading and media or personal sources. Also, in most cases asking advice from your local dentist proves to be the best advice and can effect your dental health as well as your overall well-being.

For further information about this topic, or any other dental topic, contact Dr Slootsky at info@drslootsky.com, or call 954-972-1000

Gum…Disease?

Removing plaque through daily brushing and flossing and professional cleaning is the best way to minimize your risk.

Everyone knows to brush their teeth twice a day, but many people forget about their gums! The word disease sounds scary— and it can be if you don’t take care of your gums. Here is some information about what gum disease is, what causes it, and how you can prevent it.

What is periodontal (gum) disease?

 Periodontal means “around the tooth.” Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth. Periodontal disease can affect one tooth or many teeth. It begins when the bacteria in plaque (the sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth) causes the gums to become inflamed. Gingivitis is the mildest form of the disease. In this stage, the gums redden, swell, and bleed easily. There is usually little or no discomfort.

What causes gum disease?

As mentioned, plaque is recognized as the primary cause of gum disease. If plaque isn’t removed each day by brushing and flossing, it hardens into a rough, porous substance called calculus (also known as tartar). Toxins produced and released by bacteria in plaque irritate the gums. These toxins cause the breakdown of the fibers that hold the gums tightly to the teeth, creating periodontal pockets that fill with even more toxins and bacteria. As the disease progresses, pockets become deeper, and the bacteria move down until the bone that holds the tooth in place is destroyed. Eventually, severe infection may develop with pain and swelling. The tooth may loosen and later require removal. There are other factors, too. Smokers and tobacco users are at a higher risk of developing gum disease. Changing hormone levels in pubescent teenagers and women who are pregnant also can increase the risk of gum disease. Stress, clenching or grinding your teeth, an unhealthy diet, and diabetes can increase your chances of developing gum disease as well. And, in some cases, it’s in your genes—nearly 30 percent of the human population is genetically predisposed to gum disease.

How is it treated?

In the early stages of gum disease, most treatment involves a special cleaning called scaling and root planing, which removes plaque and tartar around the tooth and smoothes the root surfaces. Antibiotics or antimicrobials may be used to supplement the effects of scaling and root planing. In most cases of early gum disease, scaling and root planing and proper daily cleaning will definitely help. More advanced cases may require surgical treatment, which involves cutting the gums—sometimes with the assistance of a laser—to remove the hardened plaque build-up and then recontouring the damaged bone. The procedure also is designed to smooth root surfaces and reposition the gum tissue so it will be easier to keep clean. This procedure may be performed by your general dentist or by a specialist, like a periodontist.

How can I maintain treatment at home?

Sticking to a maintenance program is crucial for patients who want to sustain the results of periodontal therapy. You should visit the dentist every three to four months (or more frequently, depending on the patient) for spot scaling and root planing and an overall exam. Between visits, brush at least twice a day and floss daily.

How can I prevent gum disease?

Removing plaque through daily brushing and flossing and professional cleaning is the best way to minimize your risk. You also should try to reduce the activities mentioned above (smoking, eating an unhealthy diet, grinding your teeth, and so forth). Talk to your dentist and he or she can design a personalized program for home oral care to meet your needs.

For further information about this topic, or any other dental topic, contact Dr Slootsky at info@drslootsky.com, or call 954-972-1000

Published with permission by the Academy of General Dentistry. © Copyright 2010 by the Academy of General Dentistry. All rights reserved

Due to advances in medicine and an increase in prolonged life expectancy, the number of older people will continue to increase worldwide. It is essential that all older adults practice and maintain good oral hygiene due to the high correlation between oral health and general health.

How should I care for my teeth as I get older?

Maintaining good oral health is not only vital to your systemic health—it can keep you smiling well into retirement. Brushing at least twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste and a soft-bristle brush is as important as ever. Flossing is very important, too—it helps to remove plaque from between teeth and below the gumline that your toothbrush cannot reach.

Am I more prone to certain oral conditions as I age?

As you age, you may be more likely to develop gingivitis. Gingivitis is caused by the bacteria found in plaque that attack the gums. Symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen gums and bleeding when you brush. If you have these symptoms, see a dentist. Gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease if problems persist. In the worst cases, bacteria form in pockets between the teeth and gums, weakening the bone and causing the gums to recede, pulling back from teeth. This can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. As you age, changes in salivary flow and content may further lead to gingivitis, as well as cavities. Because approximately 80 percent of all American adults suffer from some form of gingivitis, it’s important to see your dentist twice a year for regular cleanings and checkups. If regular oral care is too difficult for you (see below), your dentist can provide alternatives to aid in brushing and flossing.

What if arthritis makes brushing too difficult?

Certain dental products are designed to make dental care less painful for people who have arthritis. It is sometimes recommended that people with arthritis try securing their toothbrush to a wider object, such as a ruler, to ease arthritic hand pain while brushing. Electric toothbrushes also can help by doing some of the work for you. Ask your dentist for other suggestions.

What are the signs of oral cancer?

Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers, with roughly 35,000 new cases reported annually in the United States. Oral cancer most often occurs in people who are older than age 40. Oral cancer can form in any part of the mouth or throat. If not diagnosed and treated in its early stages, oral cancer can spread, leading to chronic pain, loss of function, irreparable facial and oral disfigurement following surgery, and even death. Oral cancer has one of the lowest five-year survival rates of all cancers; this is primarily due to late diagnosis. See a dentist immediately if you notice any of the following: red or white patches on your gums or tongue, a sore that fails to heal within two weeks, bleeding in your mouth, loose teeth, problems or pain swallowing, or a lump in your neck. Your dentist should perform a head and neck exam to screen for oral cancer during routine checkups.

What can I do about dry mouth?

As you age, you may develop dry mouth. Dry mouth (xerostomia) happens when salivary glands fail to work due to disease, certain medications, or cancer treatment. The condition can make it hard to eat, swallow, taste, and speak. Drinking lots of water and avoiding sweets, tobacco, alcohol, and caffeine are some ways to fight dry mouth. Your dentist also can prescribe medications to ease the symptoms of severe dry mouth.

What else can I do to maintain good oral health?

Studies have shown that maintaining a healthy mouth may keep your body healthier and help you to avoid diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Older patients who are planning to enter a nursing home should inquire about on-site dental care. People who do not have teeth still need to visit the dentist regularly, since many aspects of oral health, such as adjusting dentures and oral cancer screenings, can be handled during routine dental visits. The best way to achieve good oral health is to visit your dentist at least twice a year.

For further information about this topic, or any other dental topic, contact Dr Slootsky at info@drslootsky.com, or call 954-972-1000

Published with permission by the Academy of General Dentistry. © Copyright 2010 by the Academy of General Dentistry. All rights reserved

Micro Dentistry

For early cavity diagnosis undetected by x-ray, our office employs Diagnodent Laser Technology. Anesthesia free and utilizing less invasive Air Abrasion, this treatment replaced high speed drilling to clean and seal teeth at the earliest possible stage. Full Story

Laser Dentistry

In treating gum disease we employ the very latest laser technologies. Often laser treatments mean no anesthesia and quicker healing times. Laser use also lessens the risk of spreading blood-born diseases. Full Story

Invisalign Braces

This revolutionary new way to re align teeth, applicable in 80% of all cases, saves time, money and patient stress over more conventional methods. It benefits teenagers as well as adults. Full Story

Mini Dental Implants (MDI‘s)

The titanium coated fixtures, which are placed in our office without conventional surgery or post-op soreness, can immediately tighten existing removable full or partial dentures. Full Story

Restorative Dentistry

General and restorative dentistry involves the diagnosis of all issues relating to the health and function of the smile, including the treatment and repair of broken, infected, or otherwise damaged teeth, gums, and tissue. Full Story

Implant Dentistry

When people lose or break their teeth, the teeth may be replaced with implants. What’s involved, and what are the benefits? Full Story

Dentures

A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth and the tissues connected to those teeth. It is made of acrylic plastic and sometimes porcelain and metal materials. Full Story

Endodontic Root Canals

Underneath your tooth’s outer enamel and within the dentin is an area of soft tissue called the pulp tissue. While a tooth’s pulp tissue does contain nerve fibers, it is also composed of arteries, veins, lymph vessels, and connective tissue. Full Story

Porcelain Crowns and Bridges

Dental restorations restore the function, integrity, and morphology of missing tooth structure, which can be caused by caries or external trauma, such as chipping or cracking a tooth. Full Story

Tooth Extractions

Extractions are performed for a wide variety of reasons, including tooth decay that has destroyed enough tooth structure to render the tooth non-restorable. Full Story

Emergency Dental Care

Dental emergencies can be avoided by taking some simple precautions, such as wearing a mouth guard during sports and recreation and staying away from hard food such as candy that may crack a tooth. Full Story

Dental Topics A-Z

The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) is the newest go-to resource that’s been designed, first and foremost, to meet the needs of consumers who have questions and concerns about their dental care and oral health. Full Story

Temporomandubular Joint Disorder (TMJ)

Headaches, itching, blurred vision, dizziness, are just a few of the symptoms that may relate to this hard to diagnose but highly treatable dysfunction.

Intra Oral Images

Lets you see exactly what we see, so you can be better informed when discussing treatment options.

Plasma Arc Light

Plasma is used to cure or harden bonding materials as well as activate peroxide used in our office tooth whitening procedure. The advantage is little or no discomfort while greatly expediting treatment.

Periodontics

Dr.Slootsky's Dental Team

Lissette, Business Manager

Lissette was born in Nyack, New York and moved to Boca Raton when she was 8 year old. She graduated from Spanish River High School. She came to work for Dr. Slootsky in 1998 and soon thereafter received her degree in Radiology and Expanded Duties Dental Assisting from Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine. She began her career with Dr. Slootsky as a dental assistant and gradually added many other tasks such as insurance filing, bookkeeping, financial arrangements, patient financing, marketing and appointments. In her spare time Lissette enjoys spending time with her husband Chris and their two children Kelly and Ava.

Denise, Registered Dental Hygeinist

Denise was born in Norwalk, Connecticut and moved to Deerfield Beach when she was 8 years old. She interned with Dr Slootsky while attending Ely High School’s vocational program for health occupations. In 1988 she graduated from Palm Beach Community College with a degree in dental assisting and then continued with her dental hygiene degree. Denise has been with Dr. Slootsky for over 20 years. She has a very loyal following of patients who are captivated by her warm heart, exceptional skills, and her devotion to her profession. Denise enjoys taking continuing education courses and keeping up with the latest technology. She has been happily married for 14 years and has 3 daughters and a son. Denise enjoys spending time with her family and is very active with her church.

Cathy , Dental Lab Assistant

Cathy was born in Ft. Lauderdale and graduated from Nova High School. She received her degree in dental assisting with expanded duties and radiology from the Florida Medical and Dental Technologies School of Ft Lauderdale. While attending school she did her internship with Dr.Slootsky. After graduation she worked briefly for another dentist and then came back to Dr. Slootsky’s office. Cathy has been with us since 1984. Her duties include assisting in the laboratory, making temporary crowns and bridges, and taking custom shades. Cathy enjoys spending time with her husband and their four children.

Kimberly, Expanded Duties Dental Assistant

Kimberly was born in North Carolina and moved to South Florida when she was 10 years old. After High School she attended Broward Community College for her degree in Expanded Duty Functions and Radiology. From there she continued on to FAU for her B.A. in Criminal Justice. She has spent 17 years working in the dental field. Many of those years were spent in periodontal practice specializing in full reconstruction cases and treatment planning. Kimberly has been married for over 14 years and enjoys crafts, reading and spending time with her family and friends.

Nancy, Registered Dental Hygienist

Nancy has lived all her life in South florida. After attending St. Thomas Aquinas High School she began working for her father Dr. Joseph Carroll as a dental assistant while studying at Palm Beach Community College to receive her degree in Dental Hygiene. Nancy has been working for Dr. Slootsky for almost 20 years. She enjoys learning about new advance technology in her field of training. Her dedication and warm personality makes every visit for her patients an enjoyable experience. Nancy has been with her husband for over 20 years and loves playing with her two dogs Zack and Kobe.

Amy, Dental Assistant

Amy was born in Erie Pennsylvania until her recent move to South Florida in 2009. She worked as a dental assistant in Pennsylvania for over 25 years before she came to work for Dr. Slootsky. She is very comforting to our patients and is a pleasure to be around. She is a strong asset to our staff and is Dr. Slootsky’s right hand. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family and friends.