Dental Did You Know: Dental Museum at Temple University

Temple University Dental School has a fantastic dental museum including a recreation of a Victorian dental office complete with life-sized figures.

Source: http://www.temple.edu/dentistry/museum/museum_photos.htm and
http://www.temple.edu/dentistry/museum.htm

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

Excellent Article on Universal Dental Care

Love this article on universal dental care (which I support) in the University of Toronto Magazine. The link is below to the online summary. Here's the teaser snippet:


Canada's Universal Healthcare System stops, for a series of complicated and unpalatable reasons,at the gum line – a boundary not recognized by the human body. According to Jim Leake, a U of T professor emeritus of community dentistry, this artificial dividing line leaves tens of thousands of Canadians – especially low-income families, First Nations people and children – without adequate dental care.

Read the rest of the article here:

Gum Control :http://www.magazine.utoronto.ca/08autumn/leadingedge.asp#gum


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: Premolar Morphology

Most mandibular first premolars (two teeth in front of your lower molars) have a single root and a single (nerve) canal, 24% have greater than 2 canals. Typically, people from the African-American, Turkish and Chinese populations have an increased incidence of multiple canals.

Source: Cleghorn BM et al, The root and root canal morphology of the human mandibular first premolar: a literature review, J Endod 2007, Vol 33, pg 509-516.

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: Stem Cell and Regeneration

It may soon be possible to regenerate injured/diseased dental pulp (nerve and nutrient transport system) by using stem cells from a disposable source (i.e. baby teeth). These damaged areas are the primary reason for the need of a root canal procedure.

Source: Cordeiro M et al., Dental Pulp Engineering with Stem Cells from Exfoliated Deciduous Teeth, J Endod, Vol 34, pg 962-969.

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

A Gentle Reminder to take Advantage your Insurance Benefits

Hi everyone,

Hopefully everyone has recovered from a fantastic Thanksgiving holiday, the weather was just fantastic!

I just wanted to give everyone a reminder that with the end of the year fast approaching, any outstanding work should be done before Dec 31st to take advantage of any remaining insurance coverage. Most insurance plans are based on the calendar year, the exceptions being teacher and university/college student plans.

Call Jodie to schedule an appointment for your hygiene, restorative, crown or whitening appointment.

Cheers,

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: The Nerves Regulating Taste

The sensation of taste is mediated by 3 cranial nerves:

1. The facial nerve (VII)
2. The Glossopharyngeal nerve (IX)
3. The Vagus nerve (X)

Source: Klasser G et al, Taste Change Associated with a Dental Procedure: Case Report and Review of the Literature, JCDA, June 2008, Vol 74, No 5, pg 455-460.

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: Sensory Innervation of the Tongue

The trigeminal nerve (V) provides general sensory innervation to the tongue.

Source: Klasser G et al, Taste Change Associated with a Dental Procedure: Case Report and Review of the Literature, JCDA, June 2008, Vol 74, No 5, pg 455-460.


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 Sport Guards from Caley

Hi everyone,

our orthodontic lab (Caley Labs) now offers multicoloured sport guards and retainers sporting the colours of your favourite (or hated) hockey team. We’ve scanned their brochure to give you a sense of the options they offer. As always, custom lab-fabricated guards are $50. These guards are a must-have to prevent damaging and expensive sports-related injuries to the 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: The Number of Dentists in Ontario

As of 2007, there are 7400 dentists in Ontario and 933 in the area of the practice (Halton-Peel).

Source: Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario, 2007 Annual Report.

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: Cavities and Age

The prevalence of dental caries (cavities) increases with age, ranging from 21% of those aged 6-11 to 67% among adolescents 16-19 years of age.

Source: Peak Enhancement and Knowledge, Evidence-Based Clinical Recommendations for the use of Pit-and-Fissure Sealants, A Report of the American Dental Association Council on Scientific Affairs. Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario, Supplement Aug/Sep 2008.

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: Alcohol Percentage in Mouthrinses

The concentration of alcohol in mouthrinses can be 20% or more.

Source: Gerlach R, Practice Implications of Therapeutic Mouthrinses, Oral Health, July 2008, Vol 98, No 7, pg 40-42.

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: Patient Hygiene Averages

Only 72% of patients with teeth routinely brushed twice a day. While only one-fifth or so flossed daily. The average brush time is less than a minute.

Source: Gerlach R, Practice Implications of Therapeutic Mouthrinses, Oral Health, July 2008, Vol 98, No 7, pg 40-42.

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: Oral Cancer Mortality Rate

The rate of mortality from oral cancer has not significantly changed in 50 years, even with our advancement in clinical therapies.

Source: Benjamin S, It's More than an Oral Cancer Exam, It's a Quality of Life Exam!, Oral Health, July 2008, Vol 98, No 7, pg 36-38 & 62.

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: Oral Cancer Survival Rate

Even with today's technology, five year survival for oral cancer is less than 50%.

Source: Benjamin S, It's More than an Oral Cancer Exam, It's a Quality of Life Exam!, Oral Health, July 2008, Vol 98, No 7, pg 36-38 & 62.

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

Technology Rules for a Dental Practice

Hi everyone,

I saw this mantra in the latest issue of Oral Health.

Once a new technology is acquired:
the entire dental team must adopt it. Then its parameters should be adapted for individual clinicians in the office. Finally, the dental team must work to be adept at the technology or process.

Hmmm...adopt, adapt and adept. Great key words

Source: Freedman G, New Technology: Do I need it? Strategies for the Successful Practice, Oral Health, July 2008, Vol 98, No 7, pg 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

New Sign!

I've always hated the tombstone-style sign just in front our practice. Thankfully, through the help of management (especially Dean Amini) and the cooperation of all the health practitioners in our building, have a new sign:

I'll be looking to improve the signage at street level in the near future too.

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

Great Dental Quote

From Dr. Sam Kherani:

The best and cheapest dentistry is when the right thing is done extremely well the first time and it lasts.

Source: Kherani S, Being a Star Dental Professional in the New Millennium, Aurum Ceramic Continuum Vol 21, Issue 2 Spring/Summer 2008 pg 4-6.

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

Reduction in fluoride in Edmonton's Public Water Supply

Edmonton, on the advice of Health Canada has reduced the concentration of fluoride in the public water supply to 0.7 ppm (parts per million) from 0.8 ppm based on an expert panel's recommendation. Here's the teaser quote from the Edmonton Sun:

Edmonton-area residents will soon have less fluoride in their tap water, thanks to Health Canada.

Capital Health's Dr. Gerry Predy told Sun Media that he will ask EPCOR, which provides water to the city and surrounding communities, to reduce the maximum amount of the chemical that it adds to the water supply, from 0.8 parts per million to 0.7 ppm.

You can read the rest here: Fluoride Cut Eyed

Source: The Edmonton Sun Online July 30/08
http://www.edmontonsun.com/News/Edmonton/2008/07/30/6303976-sun.html


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

Public Financing of Dental Care in Canada

According to the Canadian Dental Association, the percentage of publicly funded dental services is about 4.5% (data from 2007). This amounted to 513 million dollars spent by the federal, provincial and municipal governments.

Source: Papadopoulos C, Publicly Financed Dental Care in Canada: Room for Growth, JCDA, July/Aug 2008, Vol 74, No 6, pg 507-8.

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

Oral B Counterfeit Toothbrushes

There has been a recall of counterfeit Oral B 40 toothbrushes from Dollarama stores. Here's the teaser quote from the CBC:


Health Canada issued a recall Friday of counterfeit Oral-B Classic 40 Medium toothbrushes because they may pose a choking hazard.

The federal agency said it has learned of one incident in which bristles became stuck in a consumer's throat.

Procter & Gamble Inc. and Health Canada have determined the toothbrush is a counterfeit product. Procter & Gamble have not manufactured this model of toothbrush in almost a decade.

Read the rest of the article here: Counterfeit Oral-B toothbrushes recalled for choking hazard

Source:http://www.cbc.ca/consumer/story/2008/07/18/oralb-recall.html

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

Vacation Schedule

Hi everyone,

Jodie and I will be off on vacation until July 28th, 2008. If you have an emergency, please call the practice number to leave a message or call my emergency number (also given at our practice number). New patients can call in and leave a message telling us which day they prefer for an initial appointment.

We will answer all our non-emergency messages on the 28th.

Take care and see you soon.

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: Dental Magnets

A small rare earth dental magnet (the size of a pulp chamber, typically 0.2g) can easily suspend a 37g steel weight...a force to weight ratio of 185:1!


Source: Neilburger E, Death by magnets: An unrecognized danger in dentistry, General Dentistry, May/Jun 2008, Vol 56, No 4, pg 346-7.


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 Father's Day!

To all the dads out there (especially my father): Happy Father's 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

Patient Question: Sensodyne-F and Insomnia

Recently, a patient asked whether there was any relationship between using Sensodyne-F (a desensitizing toothpaste) and insomnia. I couldn't answer him definitively. However, a quick literature search on the Pubmed database including some of the major medicinal components of the toothpaste revealed no known relationship. I did find an anecdote on Google, but no scientific literature.

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 Bleaching Using 10% carbamide peroxide and Enamel Hardness

In a recent study, it was shown that bleaching teeth with 10% carbamide peroxide can reduce enamel surface microhardness. It was recommended by the authors to either add professionally administered or self-administered fluoride to remineralize the enamel.

Source: Leandro G et al, Effects of 10% Carbamide Peroxide Treatment and Sodium Fluoride Therapies on Human Enamel Surface Microhardness, General Dentistry, May 2008, Vol 56, No 3, pg 274-277.

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

OraVerse: Reversal of Dental Anaesthesia

Hi everyone,

The FDA in the US has approved OraVerse, the first reversal agent to reduce the length of effect of dental anaesthesia. Here's the teaser clip from CBS online via WebMD:

According to Novalar Pharmaceuticals, the drug company that makes OraVerse, the FDA approved OraVerse's use in adults and children based on several clinical studies in which patients got an injection of OraVerse or a placebo after undergoing dental procedures under local anesthetics.

In the clinical studies, the patients who got OraVerse regained normal sensation in their lips faster than those who got the placebo. Within an hour after getting OraVerse, 41% of the patients had normal sensation in their lower lip, compared with 7% of those who got the placebo. And 59% of the OraVerse patients regained normal sensation in their upper lip within an hour after getting OraVerse, compared with 12% of those who got the placebo.

Read the rest of the article here: New Drug Reverses Dentists' Anesthesia
Source:
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/05/12/health/webmd/main4088132.shtml

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

Cosmetic Dentistry: Before and After Part 2

Sometimes patients desire just subtle changes. In this case, the patient wanted his small maxillary laterals (upper teeth beside the two central teeth) to be enlarged to be more reflective of the general size of the rest of his teeth. The colour match was outstanding. Our thanks to Krest Labs for their work.


Before:





After:











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

Blooming Tree - Promenade Court Dental in Mississauga May 2008

Blooming Tree - Promenade Court Dental in Mississauga May 2008
Originally uploaded by Promenade Court Dental Mississauga

Hi everyone, just testing the flickr to blogger interface (can a Yahoo service work with a google service...stay tuned.) This is the blooming tree in front of Promenade Court Dental in Mississauga.

The Amateur Photographer: May 2008

I've always liked this little tree in front of the practice in full springtime bloom.

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: Kids and Brushing on their own.

When is a good time to let kids brush on their own? When they have the ability to tie their own shoes.

Source: Dr. Kelly Blundell (Pedo), Victoria BC Canada, What's Up Kids, Spring 2008. pg 54-56.

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: Amalgam and Brain Development

According to a study in the Journal of the American Dental Association, dental amalgam fillings do not affect children's brain development and neurological status. The study tracked 507 children between the ages of 8-12 for seven years.

Source: FYI Health, AGD Impact, March 2008, pg 24.

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: Phenytoin and Gum Enlargement

Anti-epileptic drugs like phenytoin can cause severe gingival (gum) enlargement.

Source: Lucchesi J et al, Severe Phenytoin-Induced Gingival Enlargement Associated with Periodontitis, March 2008, Vol 56, No 2, pg 199-203.

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 Mother's Day

To all the mother's out there who work tirelessly for their families, have a great Mother's Day! (Especially to my mother and mother-in-law :)

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: Nicotine as a Psychoactive Drug

Nicotine is a reinforcing drug which causes users to crave the drug despite the knowledge of the negative health effects.

Source: Clinical Tobacco Intervention Bulletin, Vol 7, No 1, pg 1, March 2008, http://www.ctica.org

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: Smoking and Life Expectancy

You lose 3 months of life expectancy for every year of smoking past the age of 40.

Source: Clinical Tobacco Intervention Bulletin, Vol 7, No 1, pg 1, March 2008, http://www.ctica.org

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: Smoking and Doses of Nicotine

A person who smokes a pack of cigarettes will inhale approx 70 000 doses of nicotine per year.

Source: Clinical Tobacco Intervention Bulletin, Vol 7, No 1, pg 1, March 2008, http://www.ctica.org

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: Smoking and Nicotine

When delivered by smoking, nicotine reaches the brain in 7-10 seconds.

Source: Clinical Tobacco Intervention Bulletin, Vol 7, No 1, pg 1, March 2008, http://www.ctica.org/


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

Cosmetic Dentistry: Before and After Pics Part One

I've always wanted to post a few pics of some of the more interesting cases I have done over the years. The first project is a maxillary (upper) reconstruction of a number of broken, decayed, and infected teeth with a combination of root canals, crowns and veneers.

My thanks as always to Krest Labs in Mississauga.

Before:


















After:



















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

First Nations and Inuit Dental Coverage

We are pleased to offer dental care to our First Nations (Aboriginal) and Inuit patients, paid by the Government of Canada's NIHB program. To be minimally eligible, you must be a member of one of the above groups with a status card (bring this to your first appointment). Other requirements/information may be needed before accessing the full benefits of this program.

To take advantage of your benefits, contact Jodie at our office at 905 273-7100 stating that you are a First Nations/Inuit person wanting NIHB dental 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

Relaunched Ontario Dental Association Website

Hi everyone,

the Ontario Dental Association has relaunched and redesigned their website. The new site: youroralhealth.ca emphasizes the new consumer-focus of the ODA's main internet property. Improved graphics, navigation, and interactive areas are just a few of the numerous improvements. I encourage everyone to check it out.

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

Draft Preview: Tooth Whitening Frequently Asked Questions

Hi everyone, I've been slowly working on this for our website, but I decided to put up a preview. It still needs to be fleshed out a bit and the references need to be put in, but I thought this might be useful as is. I will post a more complete version on the blog and website in the near future.

What is tooth whitening?

It is a process of using oxidizing agents, usually carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide to "bleach" areas in the hard outer areas of the tooth (the enamel) that contain stain deposits. Over a period of time, whitening solutions can also lighten the inner areas of the tooth (the dentin).

What causes dark teeth?

In most people, staining of teeth is due to food and drink consumption, especially items that are known to stain teeth (e.g. coffee/tea/red wine). This stain buildup is also often seen with cigarette smoking. In other rare cases, medications such as tetracycline can cause teeth to get darker.

What is the ideal procedure to whiten my teeth?

Ideally, most people require 7 weeks to get a stable colour change with minimal sensitivity. We recommend to our patients to use a desensitizing toothpaste (like Sensodyne-F) for 2-3 weeks before starting to whiten. At the same time, our office takes two impressions, one each of your upper and lower teeth to fabricate custom trays. We then instruct our patients on the proper usage of each kit, usually inserting the trays with whitening gel into your mouth for a period of a few minutes to overnight depending on the type of bleaching desired. After a couple weeks of usage, the desired effects are usually achieved. However, the final stable colour is arrived at 2 weeks after bleaching due to a slight rebound effect.

Will I have sensitivity?

In most cases, yes...ranging from almost none to substantial (this is despite what most manufacturers say). Most sensitivity can be easily managed or eliminated through the use of desensitizing toothpastes and/or gel. This sensitivity is short term and usually stops shortly after the removal of the bleaching trays. Patients who have receding gums and/or many fillings should be aware that they are at a substantially higher risk of sensitivity.

How long does the whitening last?

Usually between 6-12 months before a touch up is required. The actual time depends on a number of factors including coffee/tea intake, staining food consumption, cigarette smoking, and general daily hygiene to name a few.

Will it whitening my fillings or restorations?

No, it does not change the colour of your fillings, thus it is important (if possible) to bleach and let the colour stabilize before restoring teeth so that colours can be matched more accurately.

Does bleaching affect the strength of my fillings and/or teeth?

In general, bleaching does not affect porcelain/gold restorations. It can slightly affect the strength of tooth coloured and silver fillings. It can also slightly weaken cements. To my knowledge, there is no significant evidence showing any structural or irreversible changes to tooth structure.

You seem to promote/prefer the custom tray option versus the in-office 1 hour whitening, why?

I believe it offers the best combination of performance (best results), value (best cost, since it is usually not covered by insurance) and longevity (touch up gels are sold at our cost and only need to be applied every 6 months or so and the custom trays can last up to 5 years).


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: Dental Amalgam

Dental Amalgam is a mix of metal that is composed of mercury, silver, tin, copper and (in certain cases) other metallic elements. It is extremely durable, and is the most widely used and researched material for fillings. It has been in use for over 150 years.


Source: Fact Sheet-Amalgam, What's in a Filling, AGD Impact, March 2008, Vol 36, No 3, pg 52.

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

Carbamide Peroxide and Hydrogen Peroxide in Whitening Products

I get this question quite often in interpreting the actual strength of whitening products. In general, carbamide peroxide converts to approx. 3 times less hydrogen peroxide. (i.e. 22% carbamide peroxide is generally equivalent to 7.5% hydrogen peroxide). Ask your dentist about the comparative strengths and weaknesses of dentist delivered vs. off-the-shelf whitening products.

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

Toothbrush Review in the Toronto Star

Hi everyone, I just came across this review of the Ultreo ultrasonic toothbrush. Please remind yourself that this review comes from a non-dental professional and may contain biased or not sufficiently independent data from the manufacturer.

Here's the teaser quote:

The automation of personal grooming is upon us.

Not long from now, we will raise a generation of children who will not understand the purpose of a toothbrush that doesn't vibrate, beep and require recharging.

One of our most ancient personal hygiene tools has undergone dramatic technological change.

We've reviewed the Oral-B Sonic Complete and Philips' Sonicare brushes in this space before. But there's a new challenger putting its money where our mouths are.

The Ultreo ($170), the brainchild of scientists at the University of Washington, is the first to use ultrasound waves to break down plaque and attack oral stains.

The Ultreo brush head features, of all things, an "ultrasound transducer." The small orange lump surrounded by bristles is designed to channel ultrasound vibrations through water and saliva to create bubbles. Those bubbles, in turn, pulsate and do the cleaning work.

You can read the rest of the article by clicking the link below:

Source: Cribb R, Cribb Notes, Toronto Star Online: March 17/08, Another Leap Forward for our Pearly Whites

http://www.thestar.com/sciencetech/article/346698

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 Testing

Saliva (spit) can be tested for (among other things): salivary chemistry, oral bacteria counts, quantity, viscosity, pH and buffering capacity. A DNA sample can also be retrieved.

Source (partial): Feldman B, Upfront, OD Editorial: A Different Approach, Ontario Dentist, Vol 85, No 2, pg 6.

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

Closed today due to bad weather

Hi everyone,

We are closing the practice today due to the bad weather (snow, freezing rain, very tough driving conditions). Jodie will be giving everyone a call to reschedule their appointments to another Saturday or weekday. Please call our practice number if you have an emergency.

Take care and everyone stay safe.

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

Changing Hours on Wednesday.

We will be changing our hours on Wednesday from 8am-12pm to 12-4pm. This is to allow better contact hours for our patients either in person or by phone. Thanks for your feedback! The changes are effective this month and will shortly be reflected on the website and phone messages.

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: Hair Loss and Dental Infections

Alopecia (a loss of hair of unknown origin) may be linked to infections in teeth according to researchers from the University of Granada in Spain.

Source: FYI Research, AGD Impact, Feb 2008, Vol 36, No 2, pg 20.

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: Ibucodone

Ibucodone is a new class of narcotic pain killer that combines ibuprofen (200mg) with hydrocodone (7.5mg). Clinical trials have shown a synergistic effect that is greater than the individual components. It has its maximal effect when taken before a procedure.

Source: Kermalli J and Tenenbaum H, Prevention and Management of Acute Orofacial Pain; Treating the Whole Spectrum, Feb 2008, Vol 98, No 2, pg 29-37.

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: Acetaminophen

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is a good pain killer for dental pain, but has minimal to no anti-inflammatory effects. It also has anti-fever properties.

Source: Kermalli J and Tenenbaum H, Prevention and Management of Acute Orofacial Pain; Treating the Whole Spectrum, Feb 2008, Vol 98, No 2, pg 29-37.


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

Oral Longevity: A Glaxo and ADA Initiative

GlaxoSmithKline and the American Dental Association (ADA) have partnered together, creating a program called OralLongevity (yes, all one word) which focuses on improving and maintaining good oral health throughout life. The program is offering free information to patients, caregivers and dental professionals with the goal of increasing awareness of the need for better oral health. There is a free DVD online and brochure at:
http://www.orallongevity.ada.org.

Source: FYI Health, AGD Impact, Jan 2008, Vol 36, No 1, pg 22.

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: February is National Children's Dental Health Month

February is National Children's Dental Health Month. The American Dental Association (ADA) has a nice web page discussing their recommendations for proper pediatric dental care. Here's the teaser quote:

The ADA recommends regular dental check-ups, including a visit to the dentist within six months of the eruption of the first tooth, and no later than the child's first birthday. Preventive care such as cleanings and if necessary, fluoride treatments, provide children with 'smile' insurance. Routine dental exams uncover problems that can be easily treated in the early stages, when damage is minimal.

Read the rest of the article here: February is National Children's Health Month

Source: American Dental Association, Online Media Release, Feb 4, 2008, http://www.ada.org/public/media/releases/0802_release01.asp

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

Smoking pot may fuel risk of early gum disease: Study

Found this article in Toronto Star online, here's the teaser quote:

There doesn't seem to be any shortage of reasons cited as to why marijuana is bad for health. Now from the world of dentistry comes another: regular pot-smoking seems to bump up the risk of developing gum disease – and earlier in life than expected.

In a study of more than 900 young adults, researchers found that heavy tokers were 1.6 times more likely to have at least mild periodontal disease, compared to those who had never smoked grass.

You can read the rest of the story here: Smoking pot may fuel risk of early gum disease

Source: Toronto Star Online, Feb 5, 2008 http://www.thestar.com/living/Health/article/300675

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: Whole Grain Intake and Periodontitis

Men who had a higher whole grain intake were 23% less likely to develop periodontitis than those who had less intake.

Source: Sevels I, Clincal Abstracts, Ontario Dentist, Jan/Feb, Vol 85, No 1, pg 16-17.

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

Repainting completed: Thanks for your patience!

Well, we've done it! Had a painter come in and repaint the front desk area and Operatory 1 to Ralph Lauren's Chocolate Mousse. Again, we apologize for shutting down for a day... we'll be up and running on Thursday as usual.

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: Bad Breath is More Prevalent in Obese People

In a recent study, bad breath seemed to be more prevalent in obese people, a trend that was also found in alcoholics.

Source: Discovery News Podcast, Dec 21, 2007, Friday News Feedbag http://blogs.discovery.com/news_feedblog/

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: Forensic Dentistry

The hard outer shell of teeth can help protect the inner pulp where DNA is stored...even in extreme conditions. The specific anatomy of the tooth and the DNA may allow investigators and forensic dentists to identify individuals.

Source: Forensic Dentistry: The Key to Unlocking Many Mysteries, March 2007, Academy of General Dentistry, http://www.agd.org/public/oralhealth/Default.asp?IssID=332&Topic=T&ArtID=1332#body

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 Four Types of Dental Fear

1. Specific Fear: These are patients who have 1 or 2 specific issues that bother them; usually procedural or physical. This situation is relatively easy to identify and control.
2. Loss of Control: usually due to adverse events during their life, these patients typically need high levels of sedation.
3. Catastrophe: A small percentage of dental patients really don't fear dentistry, but fear the consequences of dentistry. An example may be a patient with bladder control problems fearing an incident due to a long appointment.
4. General Anxiety Disorder (GAD): This is typically the most common underlying cause of dental fear. Unlike the previous categories, this is a recognized medical disorder. These patients have problems dealing with the stress of everyday life, not with dentistry per se. Minimal to moderate sedation can help in these situations. A medical referral would be great to help the patient.

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 Detection of Systemic Diseases

Laboratory analysis of saliva is increasingly being used to detect systemic diseases like: oral cancer, Cushing's syndrome, HIV, and hepatitis.

Source: Scientific Advances in Salivary Diagnostic Techniques, The Colgate Oral Care Report, Vol 17, No 1, 2007.

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 Guarantor Policy for Passports

The Government of Canada's new policy for guarantors allows any Canadian citizen (adult) to sign an application form. Previously, only certain professionals (e.g. dentists/physicians) were able to do this service.

(Great move by the government!)

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 Loss of Teeth and the Type of Food Consumed

A large-scale study showed that in general, the fewer teeth you have the less fibre, vegetables, and fruits you consume. In contrast, the intake of calories, saturated fat, and cholesterol increases.

Source: Joshipura KJ et al, The impact of edentulousness on food and nutrient intake. JADA 1996, 127(4):459-467.

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

Non-Specific Jaw Pain as an Indicator of a Heart Issue.

Hi everyone,

Sometimes it's the rare cases that provide a great learning experience :)

Recently, I had a patient with a chief complaint of general pain in the jaw. As usual, most dentists will work through the usual differential diagnoses: chipped tooth, infected tooth, infected gums, TMJ issues, external/internal injury etc. However, this case was interesting in that the patient could only point to a general area but not a specific structure (e.g a particular tooth). After consulting with some of our specialist colleagues and doing some quick research, we decided that it was a cardiac issue and told him to go to the ER as soon as possible.

A nice paper in the Journal of the American Dental Association in 2007 summed it quite nicely:

Craniofacial pain commonly is induced by cardiac ischemia. This must be considered in differential diagnosis of toothache and orofacial pain.

The most common areas for pain were the throat, left mandible, right mandible and left TMJ region and teeth. This pain is found more often in females than males.

Source: Kreiner et al, Craniofacial pain as the sole symptom of cardiac ischemia: A prospective multicenter study, JADA, 138 (1): 74. (2007).

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!

Happy New Year everyone! Just a reminder that we are on a limited schedule this week. I will be open this Thursday from 10am-6pm and Saturday 9am-3pm. We will be back to our usual schedule the week of the 7th.

All the best in 2008

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

Closed for the Christmas Holiday!

Hi everyone,

As usual, we are taking a bit of a break during the Christmas holiday season. Our hours of operation in the next week are as follows:

Monday, Tuesday (Christmas), Wednesday (Boxing Day), Friday: Closed
Thursday and Saturday: Open and extended hours
Tuesday (Jan 1), Wednesday (Jan 2) , Friday (Jan 4): Closed
Thursday Jan 3rd and Saturday (Jan 5): Open and extended hours

I'll be checking our voice messages everyday for emergencies. Be sure to check our website www.promenadecourtdental.com for solutions to common issues. We'll try to fit everyone in. Thanks to everyone ahead of time for their patience during this very busy time of the year. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Happy New Year to everyone.

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: The Canadian Forces Dental Service

The Canadian Forces Dental Service was first established on May 13, 1915 as the Canadian Forces Dental Corps and currently provides oral health services for our troops in operations far from home.

Source: Feldman B, War and Teeth (OD Editorial), Ontario Dentist, Sept 2007, Vol 84, No 7, pg 8-9.

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: Avocados and Oral Cancer

A study published in Seminars in Cancer Biology showed that phytochemicals kill some cancer cells and prevent precancerous cells from developing into cancer. The mechanism appears to be programmed cell death.

(Dr. Skariah's Comment: Hmmm... I wonder if other phytochemicals (e.g. flaxseed) have the same effect?)

Source: FYI Research, AGD Impact, December 2007, Vol 35, No 12, pg 20-21.

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 Did You Know: The Difference in Bite Force Among Teeth

Canine (fangs) absorb about 18 lbs/sq in of bite pressure while molars are in the 350-450 lbs/sq in range.

Source: Martin J, Everyday Occlusion: Evidence-Based or Common Sense, Ontario Dentist, December 2007, Vol 84, No 10, pg 26-30.

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: Submerged Primary Molars

A primary (baby) tooth is considered submerged if its marginal ridge (height at each end of the tooth) is more than 0.5mm below the intact marginal ridge of normal adjacent teeth. Studies show the prevalence of this condition in children ranges from 1.3 to 38.5%.

Source: Sherman M, Clinical Management of Submerged Primary Molars, Ontario Dentist, December 2007, Vol 84, No 10, pg 16-20.

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

Simroid Dental Robot: International Robot Exhibition in Tokyo

This "Simroid" is a dental patient simulator for dental students. Apparently, she has quite the realistic facial expressions, a gag reflex and can "experience" pain. She is currently one of the stars of the International Robot Exhibition in Tokyo (and not surprisingly, YouTube).





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

The practice is closed for the week: My father-in-law has passed away.

I am saddened to report that the practice is closed until Saturday due to the passing of my father-in-law from complications due to his cancer. Any emergencies can be managed by Jodie and may be handled by my good friend Dr. Andrew El-Faizy.

The funeral will be held on Thursday Nov 22/07 at the OGDEN funeral home 4164 Sheppard ave E (at Midland) at 11 am. Shilpa and I appreciate your prayers and consideration during this time.

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: Oral Cancer Rates in Canada

Approximately 3,200 new cases and 1,050 deaths from oral cancer occur each year in Canada. Unfortunately, many cases are diagnosed late and require aggressive treatment. As a result, 50% of oral cancer patients die within 5 years of diagnosis.

Source: Point of Care: What do I need to know about oral cancer screening?, JCDA, November 2007, Vol 73, No 9, pg 797-8.

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

A Reminder to Take Advantage of your Dental Insurance

Hi everyone,

This is just a reminder to our patients to take advantage of their insurance benefits before December 31st. Most dental plans cover approximately $1000 to $2500 a year in coverage. However, if you do not use them by the end of the year you will lose the remaining amount. Usually, a new insurance year starts in the New Year.

Let our practice know if this is your situation and we will try our best to accommodate your dental needs and your schedule. We have convenient evening and Saturday hours available.

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

Leadership Keys

Saw this in an Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry Journal:

Six essential qualities of a leader:

1. Beliefs: Develop strong core beliefs.
2. Optimism: Be a problem solver not a problem maker; believe that there are solutions.
3. Courage: Take action in the face of fear.
4. Preparation: Do your homework; "luck" is where opportunity and preparedness intersect.
5. Teamwork: Be humble and know that you can get others to help with success.
6. Communication: People who can influence others can move the world; become good at it by practicing the preceding five qualities.

I thought these were great points that I could use to enhance the practice going forward.

Source: Stolz B, Tips for Building an Unstoppable Team, Journal of Cosmetic Dentistry Fall 2007, Vol 23, No 3, pg 70-72.

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

Moving to iTrans

Well, we've got broadband Internet in the office (finally...I was getting tired of dial-up!) and I am pleased to announce that we will one of the first tier of practices to be moving to the iTrans system to further expedite claims and predeterminations. I'll be releasing more information as we progress on this little project, especially the specific advantages of the new system.

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

Tooth Erosion "Web Sticker" from the Academy of General Dentistry

Read the e-brochure on this topic: Dental Erosion (PDF format)


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: Attractiveness

1. The face is the most important component of physical attractiveness
2. The mouth/oral region is the most noticed/focused on area of the face

Source: Greenberg J, AGD Impact, "Voices", pg 9, October 2007.

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: Pneumonia and Oral Hygiene

In experiments involving patients admitted to a surgical intensive care unit, the use of an antimicrobial rinse and improved oral hygiene reduced the incidence of pneumonia by 60% compared to controls.

Source: The Oral-Systemic Disease Relationship: An Update for Practicing Dentists, The Colgate Oral Care Report, 2007, Volume 16, No 4, pg 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: Fluoride Concentration

The level of fluoride in the water supply is approximately the equivalent of filling a bathtub to the rim and adding a drop of fluoride.

Source: Mancuso A, Fluoridation Misinformation (Letter to the Editor), The Journal of the Academy of General Dentistry, Sept 2007, pg 6.

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: Pica

Pica is typically defined as an eating disorder that involves the persistent eating of non-nutritive substances for at least one month. Some examples are clay, dirt, sand, stones, hair, lead, vinyl gloves, paper, paint chips, coal, and matches to name a few.

Source: Johnson et al, An unusal case of tooth loss, abrasion and erosion associated with a culturally accepted habit, General Dentistry, Sept/Oct 2007, Vol 55, No 5, pg 445-448.

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 Number One Killer of Dentists

Stress-related cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of dentists. (More motivation for me to eat healthier!) :)

Source: Land R, Stress in Dentistry-It Could Kill You, Oral Health, Sept 2007, Vol 97, No 9, pg 3-6, 95.

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 Number of Swallows per Day

According to Dr. Brock Rondeau, it is approximately 1000 times a day.

Source: Rondeau B, The Importance of Diagnosis and Treatment of Patients with TM Dysfunction, The Journal of the Academy of General Dentistry, Sept 2007, pg 8-13.

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

Take More Vitamin D Mothers Told

Saw this article this morning, about new recommendations from the Canadian Pediatric Society on pregnant and nursing women to significantly increase their intake of vitamin D to reduce the incidence of a number of diseases. Here are the teaser quotes:

Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should consider increasing their vitamin D intake to 2,000 international units a day to reduce the chances their children will develop such ailments as multiple sclerosis, diabetes and cancer later in life, the Canadian Pediatric Society says.

That amount of vitamin D is 10 times higher than what is currently recommended by Health Canada for women in their childbearing years, and the advice is believed to be the first time a medical group has called for healthy people to take such elevated amounts of the sunshine vitamin.

...The advice was based on the growing body of evidence that increased exposure to vitamin D during key points of fetal and infant development may offer protection against many dangerous diseases, including asthma, osteoporosis, dental cavities and inflammatory bowel disease, among others

You can read the entire article here: Take More Vitamin D Mothers Told

Source: Globe and Mail Online, Sept 24/07,
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20070924.wvitamind24/BNStory/specialScienceandHealth/home

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

London tap water missing fluoride: C-Health Article

Saw this article in C-health. The fluoridation of London's water supply was quietly shut down September 3rd after the commercial distributor in Canada had run out. What is a bit disturbing to me is the lack of communication from the municipal department to the public regarding the change in their water.

Here's the teaser quote:

For weeks most Londoners have been drinking tap water without fluoride, the result of a continental shortage of the substance that's added to water to prevent tooth decay.

It took a plebiscite in the city 41 years ago to give the go-ahead for fluoridated water, but the equipment to add it was quietly shut down Sept. 3 for the larger of London's two water supply lines.

Asked last night whether Londoners should have been told their water composition had changed, at least one city council member was unprepared to take a position.

You can read the rest of the story here: London Tap Water Missing Fluoride

Source: C-Health, September 22, 2007 http://chealth.canoe.ca/channel_health_news_details.asp?channel_id=131&relation_id=1883&news_channel_id=131&news_id=22801

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

Starting up a Podcast: The Dental Factoid

Yes, it's true. I believe I have enough dental facts on file to start a podcast on iTunes. Testing the software/back end servers/microphones as we speak. It'll be a semi-random audio blurb on some interesting (to me and hopefully to you) facts about oral health. I'll keep everyone updated as I go.

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

Pain Ratings Fail Sufferers

As a classically trained dentist, one of the first things I ask a patient in discomfort is to describe the quality and amount of pain. I often get answers like "sharp", "throbbing", and "dull" describing the character of pain they are experiencing. As a follow-up, I often ask: "on a scale of 1 to 10, 10 being the worst, how is the pain?"

Well, new research described in this Globe and Mail Article has shown that this one value approach may be missing up to 1/3 of patients with enough pain to affect their daily lives. The better approach is to rate their current pain, their highest and lowest levels of pain over the previous week, and the level of pain they endure most of the time. After reading this article, I've changed my methodology and will encourage my collegues to do the same.

Here's a teaser quote from the article:
It may be a painful truth, but a new study suggests that attempting to measure pain on a scale of 0 to 10 may not help doctors effectively treat the suffering.

The findings, published in the October issue of the Journal of General Internal Medicine, claim the commonly used numeric rating system failed nearly a third of the time to identify patients whose pain was serious enough to impair their day-to-day functioning.

Researchers attributed the results to the subjective nature of pain, the reluctance of some people to admit their suffering, the propensity of others to exaggerate, and limiting the scale to measuring patients' current pain level.

Source: Globe and Mail Online Edition Sept 18/07; Pain ratings fail sufferers
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20070918.wlpain18/BNStory/specialScienceandHealth/home


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 Blogging Tool: Microsoft Live Writer

I've been using some new software in the hope that it would make the process of updating the blog easier and faster. To that end, I have to say that Microsoft's Live Writer (Beta) is absolutely fantastic. It gives you a MS Word like layout mode to make it easier to typeset and insert video/pictures/etc. In fact, this entry is using the new software.

I'll have to credit the windows weekly podcast for the link to the software. If you would like to try it out just go the Windows Live Page.

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

Toronto Maple Leafs Team Dentist

Found this little tidbit in the Toronto Star's Sports section, it shows the Leafs team dentists: Dr. Marvin Lean and Dr. Charles Goldberg.

Source: The Toronto Star Online Sept 14/07
http://www.thestar.com/Sports/NHL/article/256597


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

Soda/Pop Consumption in Teens

I saw this in the latest email from the Academy of General Dentistry:


In 1977, 12 to 19-year-olds drank 16 ounces of soda a day. In 1996, this same age group consumed an average of 28 ounces a day. Not only is sugar harmful to teeth, acidic flavor additives can also erode and damage tooth enamel.

Source: Academy of Dentistry email (Sept 13/07). TeenFS.pdf

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

Toronto Star Article on the Denticare Movement

The Toronto Star keeps producing great articles on dental care in Ontario. Here's the latest teaser quote:

Denticare is back on Ontario's political agenda. Since George Drew's Conservatives promised it in 1942, various politicians have pledged to introduce some form of universal dental care. So far, none has been forced to deliver. That may be changing(...)

Logically, dentists should be covered by medicare. That's what Justice Emmett Hall, whose 1964 royal commission set the stage for Canada's national public health insurance scheme, recommended. He understood that tooth disease is no less painful than bone disease and that oral infections can be as dangerous as any other.

You can read the rest of the article here: Denticare Movement has Teeth

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

Proposed New Dental Funding for Lower Income People in Ontario

Hi everyone,

It seems when an election is close, we can almost expect new funding announcements. I'm pleased to see that the Liberals and NDP have announced funding for emergency and preventive dental care of 45 million and 100 million dollars respectively. Today's article in the Toronto Star (click the link below) provides a neat summary of the Liberal announcement and its effect on 500 000 people in Ontario.

Source: Toronto Star Online, Sept 5, 2007: Dental plan could aid 500,000

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