Cool Dental Website: Chief Dental Officer of Canada

Hi everyone,

I received information on this website from a CDA (Canadian Dental Association) email bulletin. It is the Government of Canada's website (reliable info) of the Chief Dental Officer (Part of Health Canada). To be honest, I've never heard of this particular area of Health Canada, but I am pleased that the government is promoting oral health and research. Here's how they describe themselves:

The Office of the Chief Dental Officer (OCDO) was created in October 2004 to improve the oral health status of Canadians and to increase awareness about the prevention of oral diseases.

The Office works to:

• Provide evidence-based oral health perspectives on a wide range of health policy and program development issues


• Provide expert oral health advice, consultation and information


• Integrate oral health promotion with general health (wellness) initiatives


• Assist in gathering epidemiological information for program planning on federal/provincial/community levels and establish priorities for research


• Develop integrated collaborative approaches to preventing and controlling oral and associated diseases


• Provide a point of contact/liaison with professional associations, provinces, academic institutions, and other non-government organizations on oral health issues

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Cool Website: Dentistry Canada Fund

Hi all,

Just another cool site to mention. The Dentistry Canada Fund website funds a number of great areas related to the field of oral health. Their mission is stated below.

DCF Mission: to mobilize and allocate resources for the advancement of oral health in Canada through education, research and public outreach.

Take care,

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental Historic Facts: Crest and Colgate Fluoride Toothpastes

Crest toothpaste was the first commercially available fluoride-containing dentifrice in the United States. It was first available in 1955 and originally contained stannous fluoride.

Colgate with MFP (monofluorophosphate) was first marketed in 1967.

Source: Adair S, Evidence-based use of Fluoride in Contemporary Pediatric Dental Practice, Oral Health, Vol 97, No 1, pg 44-60.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Cool Dental Website: Medline Plus Dental Health

Here's a great site for patients from both the US National Institutes of Health and the US National Library of Medicine. Great organization of topics in an easy to read format from a trusted source.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental Web Link: AGD Dental Terms Page

Hi all,

This page from the Academy of General Dentistry(AGD) gives concise definitions of a few dental terms. Not comprehensive by any stretch of the imagination, but decent starting point.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental Did You Know: The Cost of Smoking

Hi all,


Smoking a pack a day would cost you about $2 555 over one year. Deposit this money into a retirement savings plan and over 20 years you would have over $104 743 (assuming a 7% rate of return and $7 per 20 cig. pack)

Source: I got this tidbit from a "Smoke Free Ontario" flyer from the Government of Ontario and the Canadian Cancer Society. I don't have the exact scientific citation, but I did get the flyer approximately around January 30th.

Take Care

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Benzocaine sprays and Methemoglobinemia (MHb)

Health Canada and the Canadian Dental Association have both sent out alerts regarding Benzocaine topical anaesthetic sprays and and Methemoglobinemia (MHb). Here's the quote from the CDA alert (dated November 28th):

Benzocaine sprays are one of the choices for topical anesthesia in dentistry. Used in excessive doses, it can lead to MHb, a potentially serious blood condition that can result in an impaired ability of red blood cells to bind and carry oxygen and may lead to cyanosis, weakness and coma.

Benzocaine sprays have been cited in several U.S. reports as a cause of MHb, generally involving the use of large amounts of benzocaine spray in patients undergoing endoscopy. One case of MHb was reported in an oral surgery patient with a large facial abscess requiring a fibreoptic intubation with the use of benzocaine topical spray. MHb has also been associated with excessive doses of the local anesthetic prilocaine.

Health Canada has received 9 reports of suspected MHb associated with the use of benzocaine to date, none of which have been fatal. Almost all reported cases were associated with higher concentration benzocaine spray products (14-20%) used in the mouth and on other mucous membranes. Sprays containing 20% benzocaine, as well as topical gels or ointments containing 20% benzocaine in a soluble base, are available for use in dental offices in Canada.

After reviewing Health Canada’s notice, Drs. Haas and Sándor provided customized recommendations for dentists, to help minimize the likelihood of benzocaine-induced MHb.
Benzocaine topical anesthetic should be avoided in dental patients who are susceptible to MHb, such as those with either congenital or acquired MHb or any disorder that reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood.

1. Alternatives to benzocaine sprays, such as topical lidocaine preparations, are available and should be used for patients with an MHb risk factor.
2. Mucosal damage or inflammation at the application site may result in an increased systemic uptake of benzocaine. Therefore topical anesthetic must be applied very judiciously.
3. Use the minimum quantity of spray needed to achieve the desired effect.
4. The cyanosis associated with MHb is not responsive to oxygen, although its administration should not be withheld. The presence of chocolate brown coloured blood is another sign of MHb. Patients may also develop other signs and symptoms of MHb such as pallor, nausea, muscle weakness, dizziness, confusion, agitation, dyspnea and tachycardia.
5. Patients with suspected cases of MHb should be sent immediately to a hospital emergency department for management, accompanied with appropriate information that MHb is suspected. This will help guide treatment, which includes the administration of 1-2 mg/kg methylene blue intravenously.

Given this information from the CDA and Health Canada, we (as are all health practitioners) are following the recommendations above. Click here to see the complete Health Canada Alert.

Take care

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Soft Drinks are the #1 Choice for Vending Machine Beverages

In the "not a surprise" department, a study in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association (October 2006) said that the most commonly purchased drinks from vending machines were soft drinks and other sugar-sweetened drinks.

The researchers also discovered that children who eat at fast food restaurants were more likely to consume these drinks.

Source: Source: AGD Impact Magazine, Vol 35, No 1, pg 21.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental News Roundup: Periodontitis and Preterm Babies

Hi all,

I just finished reading the latest issue of AGD Impact magazine (Jan 2007) and they had a few news stories that I'd like to share with you over the next week or so. First off: gum disease and premature babies.

The latest study in the Nov 2nd issue of the New England Journal of Medicine found that the treatment of periodontitis in pregnant women did not prevent preterm births. 13% of the control group gave birth early, while 12% of the treatment group did...a statistically irrelevant difference. These latest findings contradict the previous research on the topic.

I guess we will have to wait for more studies to definitively give us the answer on this topic.

Source: AGD Impact Magazine, Vol 35, No 1, pg 21.

Take care,

Hans.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental Floss is Hurting Toronto's Sewage System

Hi all,

There is an almost humourous article circulating the major media outlets about floss "gumming up" the water system in Toronto. Here's the teaser quote from the Toronto Star:


... dental floss is wreaking havoc at several of Toronto's waste-water pumping stations and treatment plants. How?

The answer is simple: People are flushing it down the toilet.

Dental floss, especially newer brands, is shred-resistant, and when strands end up in waste-water, they bind with other waste, creating what one Toronto Water supervisor called a "snowball effect." Clumps are formed – one found last week was about the size of a softball – and they gum up impellers, which are part of the pumps in the city's sanitary pumping stations. Strands of floss wrap around the motors of the impellers – rotating devices that move the waste. When the motors don't have enough power to overcome the jam, they shut down.

I have to admit that I used to flush my floss, but I've now changed that practice. My new advice to patients and my own philosophy is: floss every day and throw it in the appropriate garbage system.

Cheers!

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

CNN story on the waterlase MD laser drill

I believe in the future, a significant portion of dentistry will be done by laser. The advantages are numerous: less discomfort, better tissue response and none of the typical drill sounds. However, the cost is pretty prohibitive as the moment ($85 000-$100 000 for each machine multiplied by the number of operatories in a particular practice...ouch). Wider adoption of the technology is sure to happen when the price drops significantly (say about $25 000 per machine).

CNN had an article this morning on the topic and how incentives are being used to stimulate sales of these lasers. Here are some teaser quotes from the article:

Some dentists are resistant to change, while others just have bad memories about the older laser drills. Older models were less popular with dentists because they were difficult to use and therefore not as safe as the new laser-water drills.

"There is a number of dentists who have a dated concept of what laser dentistry is, and that gives Biolase a challenge of reaching these dentists, [to teach them] how far advanced Biolase really is," said Biolase chief executive Jeffrey Jones. Biolase is wooing dentists with the promise that its HydroPhotonics technology causes no pain and therefore requires no anesthetic.

Also, to drum up business for its $85,000 Waterlase drill, Biolase and its distributor, Sullivan-
Schein Dental, offered a holiday sales promotion that included a $5,000 discount plus a 50-inch plasma TV and a $5,000 Sullivan-Schein merchandise gift certificate.

How about improving the manufacturing process and reducing the price? :)

Take care,

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Cool Site Page: Canadian DAT links

If you are thinking of a career in dentistry (as a dentist), the Canadian Dental Association has a great selection of links about the Canadian Dental Aptitude Test or (DAT). To get into a dental school, you need the following:

1. an undergraduate degree with the prescribed requirements
2. great marks
3. a great DAT score
4. a well rounded existence :) (sports, volunteering etc.)
5. a great interview

If you make it in, it's a minimum 4 years more of schooling to become a general practitioner (in certain US states, you may need a further year of residency). Specialist training requires many additional years of training.

Take care,

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental Did You Know: Why there is more buildup on the inside of lower front teeth

There is more calculus (hard buildup) on the lingual (inside) of lower anterior teeth as compared to other teeth for a few reasons. In general, an acidic pH is bad for buildup. Sugar actually slows down the buildup process due to an acidic pH. So this particular area of the mouth has:

1. Faster clearance: these areas are cleaned better (think tongue etc.) so sugars are not in the area too long which results in more buildup
2. Faster saliva film velocity (I) : again clearing sugars quickly
3. Faster saliva film velocity (II): also results in more urea being transported to the area, which help in the neutralization of acids...which helps create calculus

Whew! That was a bit technical, but I hope it provides some insight. :)

Source: Dawes C, JCDA, Vol 72, No 10, December 2006

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Happy New Year

Just wanted to wish everyone a happy, healthy and prosperous new year!

Take care!

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Those Mistletoe Kisses may be Spreading Hundreds of Germs

Hi everyone, hopefully everyone is having a great holiday. I came across this interesting holiday article from the Academy of General Dentistry website. Here's the teaser quote:

Exchanging kisses underneath the mistletoe may leave holiday revelers with more than just friendship and goodwill tidings. Passionate partygoers may swap up to 500 different species of germs, including those that cause gum disease, warns the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), an organization of general dentists dedicated to continuing education.

“With just one kiss, this infection can be passed between couples and even to children,” says Gordon Isbell, III, DMD, MAGD, spokesperson for the AGD.

Gum disease, a chronic inflammation and infection of the gums and surrounding tissues, is the major cause of about 70 percent of adult tooth loss, affects three out of four persons at some point in their life and is easily transmissible though mouth-to-mouth contact.

Read the rest of the article here:

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Merry Christmas to all!

My family and myself would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas! Peace on earth and goodwill to everyone. Have a great holiday.





Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Cool Site from Crest and Scientific American

Crest has kindly put up online the Scientific American Special Issue on Oral and Whole Body Health. Great series of articles, but you will need a PDF reader (usually from Adobe) to view the stories. Enjoy!

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental Did You Know: Beverages and Dental Erosion

Acidic beverages such as fruit juices, soft drinks, sports drinks and alcohol can potentially cause dental erosion. Some findings:

1. Adding fluoride to drinks does not decrease the incidence of dental erosion
2. Dental erosion can be caused by both food and drink
3. Swishing or holding acidic liquids in the mouth promotes erosion
4. Citric acid has the highest erosive potential

Sources: Sevels I, Ontario Dentist, Dec 2006, Vol 83, Number 10, p.14 and American J Dent, 2005; 18:101-104


Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Coming Soon to Stores: Bacteria Reducing Gum

BASF, the German chemical company, is coming out with a gum that contains "good" bacteria to combat the "bad" bacteria that causes tooth decay. Cavities start when certain bacteria adhere to the surfaces of teeth and produce acid to breakdown the hard outer enamel surface. The bacteria in the gum causes the cavity producing bacteria to clump together preventing it from attaching to the tooth surface. Tests indicate that a 50% reduction in bacteria is possible by chewing the gum.

Source: AGD Impact, (Dental News), December 2006, vol 34, no 11, pg 24 and Marina Murphy from Chemistry & Industry

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental Did You Know: Essential Oils

Essential oils (such as eucalyptol, menthol, methyl salicylate and thymol to name a few) can be commonly found in mouthrinses (e.g. Listerine) and can help facilitate the control of plaque, periodontal disease and viral contamination of saliva.

Source: Von Fraunhofer et al, The effect of a mouthrinse containing essential oils on dental restorative materials, General Dentistry, Nov-Dec 2006 Vol 54, No 6, pg 403-407.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Cool Dental Consumer Site

Hi all,

I ran into a nice consumer (patient) dental site called Simple Steps Dental. It contains information in an easy to read and graphic format from Columbia University Dental School. It is maintained by Aetna (Dental Insurance Company).

I'm getting some feedback from people who are using the site. I'll get back to the blog on any critiques or praises they might have. As always, ask your dentist for answers to any dental questions you may have...websites can provide great information but your local health provider can tailor any information to your specific needs.

Take care,

Hans


Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental Did You Know: Methamphetamine and Salivary Flow

From the Academy of General Dentistry:

Methamphetamine , a sympathomimetic amine, acts on alpha adrenergic receptors of salivary gland vasculature, producing vasoconstriction and reducing salivary flow.

Translation for patients:

Meth reduces the blood flow in saliva glands which reduces the amount of spit produced. This increases the probability of getting cavities.

Source: Klasser G and Epstein J, General Dentistry, November-December, Vol 54, No 6, pg 431-439.


Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental Did You Know: Where Most Cavities Occur and Why Sealants are Needed

Pit and fissures (those grooves mostly on the chewing surfaces of teeth) are about 12.5% of the overall tooth surface but account for 88% of the caries (cavities) in children.

Source: Boksman L, Have Recent Advances in Adhesives and Materials Dictated a Change in Sealant Protocols?, Oral Health, October 2006, Vol 96, No 10, pg 69-78.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental Did You Know: Saliva Properties

From the Journal of the Canadian Dental Association:

Saliva helps maintain a neutral oral pH and provides a reservoir of calcium and phosphate ions to remineralize teeth. Saliva protects oral mucosa and teeth against harmful substances; lubricates the mouth to facilitate chewing, swallowing and speech; and reduces tissue trauma. Saliva contains enzymes, immunoglobulin A, lactoferrin, histatins and defensins, which provide local antimicrobial activity. Saliva also acts as a solvent to enhance taste and facilitate the initial steps in digestion.

Source: Gupta A et al., JCDA, November 2006, Vol. 72, No. 9 pg 841-846.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental Did You Know: Absence of Teeth

6% of children may permanently be missing teeth (anodontia) with girls having a higher incidence than boys (3:2 ratio). A good indication of missing permanent (adult) dentition is missing primary (baby) teeth.

Source: Misch C, et al. Maxillary Partial Anodontia and Implant Dentistry, Oral Health, Vol 95, No. 8, August 2005


Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Maxill and POW Laboratories: Partners in Excellence

A successful dental practice involves more than just the dentist and the professional staff at the office. A whole team of professionals in the sundries (supplies) and dental laboratory areas are needed to ensure the best experience and results for our patients.



I would like to thank Valerie from Maxill for providing quick service, a great product (the toothbrushes have been getting rave reviews), and more samples than I could ever expect!



I would also like to thank the team at POW laboratories. They have (over the years) provided immense guidance, great service and very good laboratory work for our patients in Mississauga and in Tavistock. Their latest endevour was a very nice lunch and learn on the Celera denture technique...I snapped a pic for the blog (hope everyone was having a good hair day).



Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental Did You Know: Sipping Soda/Pop and Tooth Decay

From the Academy of General Dentistry:

"Sipping a soft drink all afternoon is more harmful to your teeth than drinking a large soda with a meal and then not drinking any soda for the rest of the day."

Source: Academy of General Dentistry:Children's oral health

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Fluoride and Infant Formula: ADA Position Statement

The ADA (American Dental Association) has released an interim position statement on the use of fluoridated water in reconstituted infant formula. In a word...don't. According to the organization, it is preferred that any formula for infants be created with non-fluoridated water, (since there is most likely enough in the baby's diet to provide an adequate supply for optimal tooth structure).

From the press release:

• Breast milk is widely acknowledged as the most complete form of nutrition for infants. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends human milk for all infants (except for the few for whom breastfeeding is determined to be harmful).
• For infants who get most of their nutrition from formula during the first 12 months, ready-to-feed formula is preferred to help ensure that infants do not exceed the optimal amount of fluoride intake.
• If liquid concentrate or powdered infant formula is the primary source of nutrition, it can be mixed with water that is fluoride free or contains low levels of fluoride to reduce the risk of fluorosis. Examples are water that is labeled purified, demineralized, deionized, distilled or reverse osmosis filtered water. Many grocery stores sell these types of drinking water for less than $1 per gallon.
• The occasional use of water containing optimal levels of fluoride should not appreciably increase a child’s risk for fluorosis.

Take Care

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Engadget and Toothbrushes that send Music Through Your Head

Being a bit of a tech-head, I find that sites like www.engadget.com give me information on the bleeding edge of technology so that I can see what may be coming in terms of dental innovation (usually 1-2 years down the road for commercial products.)

The site is written with some dry (and not-so-dry) humour... I quite like it :)

A neat sample of their work that relates to dentistry is this article (in 2005) on toothbrushes that can conduct music through your teeth and bones to your ears.

Take Care,

Hans

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Added Yahoo Health News to Blog

Hi everyone

I'm still changing the layout of the blog, but this time I've managed to add Yahoo Health News articles in addition to the Yahoo Oral Health articles (both are on the side bar).

Take care,

Hans.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental Treatment During Pregnancy

There was a great article in the September 2006 issue of Oral Health (Ontario Dental Association), relating to when dental treatment could/should be done on pregnant women.

The following is a chart taken from the article:

Recommended Timetable (Treatment Protocol) for the Management of Oral Health During Pregnancy

1st Trimester: Treatment may be limited due to morning sickness. Only emergency treatment should be rendered during this period.

2nd Trimester: This is the safest period to perform any necessary dental treatment. Pregnant women should be advised to consult their prenatal care providers about the use of anesthetics and medications.

3rd Trimester: Professional evaluation is necessary. Treatment may be impeded due to increased physical discomfort.

References: Gajendra S and Kumar J, Oral Health and Pregnancy: A Review, Oral Health, Sep 2006, Vol 96, No 9, pgs 81-88. Originally adapted from both the oral health topics area (consumer) from the Academy of General Dentistry http://www.agd.org/consumer/oralhealthtopics.html and the American Dental Association (1998)-Pregnancy and Oral Health Brochure.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

New Layout Trial

Hi everyone,

Most of you might have noticed a change in the design of the blog. I'm experimenting with new templates to improve readability and to further expand the features of the blog.

As always, the blog and the websites are a work in progress :)

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Post Halloween Reminders

Hi all,

Just a reminder that parents should always go over the candy handed to their kids. Only consume those that are well known candies, with the packaging intact and from known friends and neighbours. Of course, the candies most likely to enhance your chances of getting a cavity are the extremely sticky ones or the ones that require a long time to consume, (thus exposing the mouth to sugars over a long period of time).

The cute picture to the right is our neighbour's kid, (forget the candy, he's just happy to be out and about :)

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Tiger and Maria: Top Smiles as Rated from Dental Professionals

The AACD (American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry) has released their list of the best smiles from athletes for 2006, taken from a survey of dental professionals.

Maria Sharapova and Tiger Woods won with over 42% and 59% of the vote respectively.


Reference: AACD, 2006


Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Best Celebrity Smiles Male and Female

The AACD (American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry) has released their list of the best celebrity smiles for 2006, taken from a survey of dental professionals.

Halle Berry (X-men, Bond Gal, etc.) won for the best female celebrity smile with a 38% share from dental professionals while Mathew McConaughey won best male celebrity smile with 44% of the vote.

It's hard not to agree with the results :)

Reference:
AACD, 2006


Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

New Google Maps to the practice website added.

Hi all,

Updated the contact page of my website at www.promenadecourtdental.com with new hybrid maps from maps.google.ca . They are a mix of satellite imagery with major streets overlayed on top. I also used an image of the exterior of the building (seen at the right) so that people trying to find the practice have something visual as a reference.

Take care,

Hans.


Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Added Yahoo Oral Health News Feeds to the Blog

Hi friends,

I switched over to Yahoo!'s Oral Health News Feeds (left column) simply because they are more relevant to this blog . So far, the initial reports from family, friends and staff is positive.

Take Care,

Hans

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental Did You Know? Medications known to cause gingival (gum) overgrowth.

This is by no means a comprehensive list of systemic medications that cause gingival (gum) overgrowth, but it's a base reference:

Anticonvulsants (Phenytoin)
Calcium Channel Blockers (Dilitiazem, Felodipine, Nifedipine, Nisoldipine, Verapamil)
Immunosuppressive Agents (Cyclosporin A, Mycophenelate Mofetil)

Reference:
DeRossi S and Hersh E, A Review of Adverse Oral Reactions to Systemic Medications, General Dentistry, March-April 2006, Vol 54, No. 2, pg 131-138.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental Did You Know? The Tongue

The tongue is the only set of muscles in the body that have their attachment at one end.

Reference:
The Toronto Star, Ideas Section, Oct 22/06 Page 3

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental Did You Know? Dry Mouth Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of dry mouth may include:

• Increased need to sip or drink fluids when swallowing
• Difficulty speaking
• Difficulty swallowing
• A burning or sore sensation in the mouth
• Inability to eat certain foods
• Diminished or altered sense of taste
• Increase susceptibility to oral infections
• Sleep interruptions due to thirst
• Difficulty wearing dentures
• Tooth decay
• Gingivitis
• Stale or bad breath

Reference: Academy of General Dentistry Factsheet on Dry Mouth

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental Did You Know? Dry Mouth and Medications

Medications are the cause of more than 90% of dry mouth cases.

Source: Academy of General Dentistry Factsheet on Dry Mouth


Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental Did You Know? Periodontitis (Gum Disease) and Health

Potential effects of Moderate to Severe Periodontitis (Gum Disease) on the Body:

Stroke: 2 times higher
Chronic Respiratory Disease: 2-5 times higher
Coronary Artery Disease: 2 times higher
Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes: 4-7 times higher
Diabetes: 2-4 times higher

Reference: Articles in the "Proceedings of The Periodontal-Systemic Connection: A State-of-the-Science Symposium," Ann. Perio 2001


Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Mississauga Dentistry: Across from Trillium Hospital's Mississauga Site

Looking for family dentist near Trillium Hospital in Mississauga? Promenade Court Dental is located across the street at 2233 Hurontario St (1/2 km north of the QEW). We welcome new patients and emergencies. All our patients can take advantage of our tooth whitening specials: only $149 for custom tray whitening (50% off, limited time only and complete exam required). Call my assistant Jodie at 905 273-7100 to schedule an appointment (open evenings and Saturdays).

Take care


Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental Did You Know? Tooth Whitening and Crowns

You should wait two weeks after tooth whitening to your desired shade to select the colour of your crown. It takes that long to have the colour of your whitened teeth stabilized.

(POW Laboratories/Fall 2006 Newsletter)

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental: Did you know? Part 2

The World Health Organization (WHO) says that 10-15% of the world's population are suffering from severe periodontal disease. (Currently 700 million to 1 billion people.)

Reference:
World Health Organization: Global Oral Health Data Bank, Geneva: WHO, 2002

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental: Did you know? Part 1

Smokers are four times as likely to have periodontal (gum) disease as someone who has never smoked.


Reference:
Tomar SL and Asma S Smoking-attributable Periodontitis is the US. Findings from NHANES III. J Periodontol, 2000:71:743-751.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Health Stories from Digg.com Integrated into Blog

Well, I've managed to get popular health news stories on the left column dynamically updated from http://www.digg.com/. The cool thing about this website is that users get to rate the stories over the newswire/internet based on their interest level (a social component to health news). Can't get just dental stories yet, but I will try again in the future. As always, consult your physician or dentist first on any issue or topic that you might have questions to.

Take care,

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Celara Denture Technique

Hi all,

Had a lecture at POW dental laboratory on the Celara denture technique for replacing complete dentures. It generally involves using the existing denture as a template and fabricating a new denture (with virtually any dimension or variable changed as you see fit). In short, it increases the predictability of a new denture since it is based in part on the old denture. Sounds like an interesting technique for certain cases. For more information you can head to their website: Dentovations

Take Care,


Hans.


Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Swish if you can't brush!

Hi all,

Here's a great tip in the September isssue of Parenting Magazine and also the October issue of AGD Impact (p.20) that a good idea after meals is to swish with water for 30 seconds to remove the food acids that harm the enamel. Brushing is better, but if you are in a pinch, this is a decent alternative.


Take Care,

Hans.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Computers in the Operatory

Hi all,

I've started using computers in the op where I'm doing most of my dentistry. So far, I use it for patient education and playing music/podcasts/audiobooks from iTunes. In the future, the plan is to get a flat screen for the wall (and/or) ceiling facing the patient. The laptop in the op is an Dell Inspiron 8200 (I love it!) borrowed from home, but I hope to get a Core 2 Duo laptop some time around the holidays.


Take care,

Hans.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Green Bite Apple

Hi all,

Went to Dentalfest in Kitchener, ON to see some of the newer products and came across this bite registration material that tastes like green apples. I got a sample to try out and I have to say that I'm quite impressed with the rigidity and tolerance by my patients so far. (I'll give an update on the product later on to see if my opinion holds)

Take Care,

Hans.


Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Sensodyne Pronamel

Hi all,

Just got this fax from GSK (Glaxo) about their new Sensodyne Pronamel products (Trademarks with their respective owners). Went to their website at www.dental-professional.ca (intended only for dental professionals) and got the following information about this product in Canada:

HELPS PROTECT TEETH AGAINST THE EFFECTS OF ACID EROSION AND SENSITIVITY

ProNamel helps to reharden softened enamel:

• Microhardening effect – high fluoride uptake from unique new formulation

ProNamel helps address the pain of sensitive teeth:

• Low Relative Dentin Abrasivity (RDA)
• Contains Potassium nitrate (5% w/w)

ProNamel also offers these additional benefits:

• Neutral pH
• SLS-free
• Provides the benefits of a regular toothpaste including fresh breath, caries protection, and plaque removal (with brushing)
• Two great flavours: Mint Essence and Fresh Wave

I'll follow up with my first impressions of this product when I get some samples. Remember that the features stated above are from the manufacturer. I usually recommend Sensodyne-F to my patients with sensitivity and before any sort of tooth whitening treatment.

You can read the headline page on their website here.

Take care,

Hans.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Steroid Abuse Harms Gingival Tissues

Hi all,

The great people at the American Academy of Periodontology have this article on the relationship between anabolic steroids and gingival (gum) enlargement. Here's the snippet:

Researchers found that prolonged use of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) is closely associated with significant levels of gingival enlargement, according to a new study published in the Journal of Periodontology. Study Abstract *

Gingival overgrowth is a condition in which the gingival tissues become swollen and grow over the teeth. Overgrown gums make it easier for bacteria found in plaque to accumulate and attack supporting structures of the teeth, potentially leading to severe periodontal infection.

Just a reminder that a lot of medical conditions/drugs can cause gingival overgrowth. Always advise your dentist on the drugs you may be taking and any medical changes at every dental appointment. You can read the rest of the article here: Steroid Abuse Harms Gingival Tissues

Take care,

Hans.
Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Tech Hints I: www.download.com

Hi all,

I often get asked (as a tech-head) where I get most of the software applications that I use. Well, most is store bought (Win XP, HP Photo imaging/editing software), but a great many apps come from www.download.com, CNET's great archive of reviewed software (screenshot to the right). This site is great for downloading software that is free of spyware, viruses, and malware. (Although some programs still install secondary programs, it is usually stated before you download the program). Try it out here: CNET's download.com

Take care,

Hans.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental Podcast Blurb Part II - Dentalcast

Hi all,

Here's a podcast that I regularly listen to: dentalcast hosted by Dr. David Dodell. The podcasts are generally aimed at the professional populations (dentists, hygienists etc.) and offer quite a bit of good information. (e.g. Episode 24 -Bisphosphonate Associated Osteonecrosis of the Jaw)

You can subscribe to the podcast in iTunes or go to the website here: Dentalcast


Take Care

Hans

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Dental Podcasts Blurb Part I - ADA Podcasts

Hi all,

For the dentists in the crowd, the ADA (American Dental Association) has a nice series of podcast available at their site. Topics include: "Internet Marketing","Finding and Keeping the Patient", as well as Strategic Planning and Tax Management.

They also have a podcast RSS feed. You can get the podcasts, and more details here: ADA Podcasts

Take Care

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Amalgam Dental Fillings Fend Off Bacteria Better than Composite

Hi all,

As reported at the ICAAC (Interscience Conference on Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy), amalgam fillings tend to fend off bacteria significantly better than composite (tooth coloured) fillings, although both seem to be significantly behind the antibacterial properties of titanium (implants), gold (crowns), and good-ol enamel (teeth).

Here's a snippet from the article:

The debate about mercury in amalgam dental fillings not withstanding, amalgam is superior to composite material in reducing adherence of caries-causing Streptococcus mutans, researcher(s) said here.

The least bacterial adherence was seen for titanium, gold and natural enamel followed by amalgam, according to a German study of 73 samples presented in a poster session at the Interscience Conference on Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy.

You can read the entire article from www.medpagetoday.com here: Amalgam Dental Fillings Fend Off Bacteria Better than Composite

Take care

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Bizzare Objects used for Flossing

Hi all,

Came across this in a news search. People never cease to suprise me on the objects they use to floss between their teeth. Here's a snippet from the Winston-Salem Journal about people in Albany, NY using various objects to floss:

Dentists and periodontists nationwide have been horrified to learn that poker decks do double duty as floss; a seamstress turns to her sewing thread, or needle, to remove the mid-day snack; and office workers turn pencils, paper clips or car keys into it'll-do-for-now floss. It's just not good dental practice.

"Improper tools can actually contribute to, or accelerate recession or abrasion (to the gums). People actually chew off their fingernails and use them as floss," said Dr. Gregg Liberatore, a dentist in private practice in Clifton Park, N.Y.

You can read the entire article here:

Take care, and floss everyday (with floss)


Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Pit and Fissure Sealants - Positive Effects on Teeth

Hi all,

Another factoid from the Colgate Oral Health Report (Vol 15, Number 4, 2006, p.5) that applying pit and fissure sealants to teeth resulted in the number of cavities (caries) prevented at 62% to 92% (based on six studies and 1 meta-analysis)

Sealants are easy to apply, require no freezing and result in fewer cavities when properly maintained.


Take Care,

Hans

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Bad Breath - Some Tips from the ADA and AGD

Hi all,

Some suggestions from the ADA (American Dental Association) and AGD (Academy of General Dentistry) on combating bad breath:

Eliminate the bacteria and food particles that can cause bad breath. Floss, then brush your teeth, gums and tongue after each meal.

If you can't brush and floss, rinse your mouth with water after eating to dislodge food and moisten your mouth.

Have your teeth cleaned and examined by a dental professional twice (or more) per year.

Learn the proper way to brush and actually do it.

Drink lots of liquids, preferably water, to keep your mouth moist.

If your mouth feels dry, chew sugarless gum to stimulate production of saliva

You can also chew raw parsley which is a natural breath freshener.

Baking soda is an effective odor eliminator; try a toothpaste that contains baking soda.

Try rinsing your mouth for one minute with a 50-50 mixture of hydrogen peroxide and warm water to kill odor-causing bacteria.

Avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol; read the label! Instead, try a mouthwash that contains chlorine dioxide. This compound doesn't just mask odor, it actually eliminates it at the source by attacking the odor-causing volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs).

Snack on raw vegetables such as carrots, celery and red peppers. This stimulates production of saliva, and some dentists believe it can help to remove plaque from your teeth.

To avoid stress-related dry mouth, practice "conscious relaxation" in stressful situations: breathe deeply, visualize peaceful settings, recognize parts of your body that feel tense and consciously relax them. If you can't get past the stress, chew sugarless gum or mints to keep the salivary glands going.

Use an oral irrigation device such as a Waterpik to remove particles of food wedged between your teeth; portable models are available.

If you wear dentures or a retainer, clean them frequently, and periodically soak them in an antiseptic solution.

Seek out a dentist who offers specialized treatment in that area.

(Sources: ADA/AGD/Casey Online)

Take care all

Hans

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Oral Complications of Cancer Therapy

Hi all,

Cancer affects a great number of people around the world. While there are a number of treatments available to help combat this disease, most have significant oral side effects. This article from the AGD (Academy of General Dentistry) reflects on some of this complications:

Oral complications include salivary gland dysfunction, which leads to dry mouth; rampant dental decay and mouth sores which are painful, diminish the quality of life and can lead to significant compliance problems. According to figures from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), oral complications occur in almost all patients receiving radiation for head and neck malignancies, in more than 75 percent of bone marrow transplant recipients and in nearly 40 percent of patients receiving chemotherapy.

According to recent studies, pretreatment therapy for oral complications can positively affect the outcomes of cancer treatment. "The Academy urges that all members of the cancer treatment team should be fully informed of the treatment plan, with oral care initiated at the outset of cancer treatment," states J. Gordon Wright, Foundation board member.

You can read the entire article here:

Take care,

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Salivary Production Quick Fact

Hi all,

I was reminded of this fact from the Oral Care Report (produced by Colgate, Volume 15, Number 3, 2005) that the average person produces over 600ml of saliva per day. (That's well over two cans of your favourite beverage)

Take care all,

Hans.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

National Dental Museum

Hi all,

Just posting an interesting link to the National Dental Museum in the States. This site has great educational programs for children in the junior grades. Check it out at http://www.dentalmuseum.org

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Cheese Reduces Tooth Decay

Hi all,

Here's a blurb from the dairy farmers of Canada on the relationship of cheese and reducing the incidence of tooth decay (cavities). Here's a snippet:

Research continues to demonstrate that cheese is a heavyweight contender in the fight against tooth decay. What's more, studies by the Forsyth Specialized Caries Center in Boston indicate that the caries-promoting effect of sugar and the caries-protective effect of cheese - both long noted in coronal caries - have been extended to root caries as well. Various mechanisms of action may be responsible for cheese's anticariogenic effects - from its high mineral content to its ability to stimulate saliva.

Read the rest of the article here:


Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Mississauga Dentist - Promenade Court Dental

Looking for a dentist located in Mississauga? Promenade Court Dental is accepting new patients and emergencies. Call us to get your custom tray tooth whitening for 50% off! (Only $149 with complete exam.)


Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Flossing Tidbit

Hi all,

Just a reminder that brushing is not enough. You can miss up to 35% of the surfaces of your teeth by not doing it everyday.

Take Care,

Hans.


Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Bisphosphonates and Osteonecrosis (Jaw Rot)

Hi all,

This is part two of the article sent to me by the AGD (Academy of General Dentistry). This particular snippet deals with the complications of bisphosphonates and an increased risk of jaw necrosis (jaw rot):

Breast cancer patients, individuals at risk for osteoporosis, and individuals undergoing certain types of bone cancer therapies often take drugs that contain bisphosphonates. Bisphosphonates may place patients at risk for developing osteonecrosis of the jaws (a rotting of the jaw bones), according to a case report and literature review that appeared in the May/June 2006 issue of General Dentistry, the Academy of General Dentistry’s (AGD) clinical, peer-reviewed journal.

Bisphosphonates are a family of drugs used to prevent and treat osteoporosis, multiple myeloma, Paget’s disease (bone cancers), and bone metastasis from other cancers. These drugs can bond to bone surfaces and prevent osteoclasts (cells that breakdown bone) from doing their job.

“Healthy bones constantly rebuild themselves,” explains co-author of the report Sally-Jo Placa, DMD, MPA. “However, since the jawbones have rapid cell turnover, they can fail to heal properly in patients taking any of the bisphosphonate drugs. Patients need to be aware of the possibility of complications from dental surgery or extractions.” Since these drugs linger in the bone indefinitely, they may upset the cell balance in how the jaws regenerate and remove unhealthy bone.

Current knowledge suggests that some of these effects can last up to 17 years! (Wow!) You can read the rest of the article here.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Pregnancy Cravings and Oral Health

Hi all,

This article was sent to me via our friends at the AGD (Academy of General Dentistry), discussing the problems of cravings during pregnancy. Here is a snippet from that article:

Pregnant women may often make ice cream runs to calm their cravings as they wait for their baby’s arrival. Other women suffering from an eating disorder called pica, will have cravings for ice, freezer frost, or even soil.

Pica combined with bulimia can have adverse effects on an individual’s oral health during pregnancy and also can be hard to diagnose and treat during those nine months, according to a study published in the May/June 2006 issue of General Dentistry, the Academy of General Dentistry’s (AGD) clinical, peer-reviewed journal.

Pica, usually a secretive behavior, is a compulsive eating disorder in which sufferers have a constant appetite for non-nutritious substances. Bulimia is a condition in which patients overeat and then purge due to a fear of gaining weight. While the conditions’ association and cause during pregnancy are not known, many suggest cultural and physiological factors are to blame. Others believe depression or iron and zinc deficiencies during pregnancy could be a factor.

You can read the rest of the article by clicking here:


Take care all

Hans.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Practice Poster Images

Hi all,

Just wanted to display some of our advertising that people in the area of the dental practice (South Mississauga) will see. I've had great feedback with this poster. (You will need adobe acrobat reader to view it, get it from www.download.com if you need it)

Click here to view it


Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Google Map Page of the Promenade Court Dental Practice

Hi all,

Here's the link to the google map page of the Promenade Court Dental Health Group Practice.

What a url!!

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=31.701751,59.238281&q=Promenade+Court+Dental&ie=UTF8&om=1&z=14&ll=43.578712,-79.615517&spn=0.028291,0.05785&iwloc=A

Take Care,

Hans.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Sportguards

Hi all,

This is a modified version of a fact sheet in my office about the need for sportguards:

Facts:

Dental injuries are the most common type of orofacial injury sustained during participation in sports, the majority of these injuries are preventable.

More than 5 million teeth are knocked out each year during sports activities.

An athlete is sixty times more likely to sustain damage to the teeth when not wearing a protective mouthguard.

The cost of a fractured tooth is many times greater than the cost of a dentist diagnosed and designed professionally made mouthguard.

Every athlete involved in contact sport has about 10% chance per season of an orofacial injury or a 35-56% chance during an athletic career. A properly fitted mouthguard reduces the chance of sustaining a concussion from a blow to the jaw.

Take care,

Hans.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Smoking, Stained Teeth, and Heart Disease Statistics

Hi all,

Got this information from Pfizer. I've reformatted it for the web:

60% of smokers report having stained teeth
56% of smokers are interested in smoking cessation products that whiten teeth

After quitting smoking:

Within 48 hours: the chance of heart attack is reduced
At 1 year: the risk of heart disease is ½ that of a smoker
At 5 years: the risk of stroke = non smoker
At 15 years: the risk of dying from a heart attack = non smoker

Pretty sobering stats, but they do indicate that some of the effects of smoking can be reversed.

Take Care

Hans

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

More Pics from Promenade Court Dental

Here is another picture from my new practice in South Mississauga. This view is from the common waiting area looking at the main hallway of the practice. More pictures of the practice can be seen at www.promenadecourtdental.com

Take care,

Hans.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Zoom AP has just arrived to Promenade Court Dental Health Group!

Hi all!

I feel like a proud papa! Just got the shipment of the latest Zoom chairside tooth whitening! Called Zoom Advanced Power (Zoom AP). This technology promises to have whiter teeth in a shorter period of time. More details to follow but I wanted to post a picture of the machine today. This one is a bit of a close-up in the room (operatory) we anticipate to turn into a bit of a "whitening center".

Take Care

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Helpful Bacteria in the Fight Against Tooth and Body Odor?!

Hi all,

Just saw this article on MSN, basically saying that the bacteria from yogurt may be able to reduce the numbers of "bad" bacteria (S. Mutans) in the mouth by over 50 times!

We may see this technology in the future in toothpaste and mouthwashes, here's the teaser:

Chewing gum, toothpaste and deodorant might soon contain beneficial bacteria to fight tooth decay and underarm stench.

Strepptococcus mutans, or S. Mutans, is a bacterium that causes tooth decay. S. Mutans sticks to the surface of teeth, producing an aggressive acid that breaks down the enamel.
The bacteria found in yogurt might come to the rescue. In the journal Chemistry & Industry, scientists report that a new strain of lactobacillus called L. anti-caries, forces S. Mutans to clump together, preventing them from becoming attached to the tooth surface.

For the rest of the article click here

Take care all!

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Promenade Court Practice Website Live!

Hi all!

Well it's finally happened: I've finished the first draft of my website. Lots of additions, changes, (subtractions?) yet to do but it will provide a good starting point for my patients.

Here it is: http://www.promenadecourtdental.com

Created by the (beta) version of Microsoft Expressions.

Take care and stay safe!

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Canadian Dental School Website Listing

Hi all!

Just wanted to get a listing of the Canadian dental school websites. These sites are a great source of information for patients, doctors and other dental professionals.

From west coast to east coast:


University of British Columbia
University of Alberta
University of Saskatchewan
University of Manitoba
University of Western Ontario
University of Toronto
McGill University
University of Montreal
Laval University
Dalhousie University

Take care and have a great civic holiday!

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Repair Teeth with Ultrasound

Hi everyone!

Here's a facinating article that shows that ultrasound waves may help in regenerating and repairing dental tissue. I've seen different versions of this article saying that treatment times are as short as 20 minutes/day over 12 weeks (I'll try to verify this). Can growing teeth in total be far behind?

Here's the link

My kudos to the researchers at U of Alberta, fantastic work!


Take care
Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD