Chewing Sugarless Gum May Help Prevent Tooth Decay

A number of research projects over the years have indicated that chewing sugarless gum has some benefit for oral health.  Recently an article was published that reviewed a dozen research studies of chewing sugarless gum done over a period of 50 years.  The results indicated a significant impact on reducing dental decay.  The American Dental…

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Genetic Test for Type 1 Diabetes

According to a recent report published in an online news site, the University of Virginia is working on a genetic test to help identify persons who are more likely to develop Type 1 diabetes. Type 1 Diabetes, which has been called “Juvenile Diabetes” or “Insulin Dependent Diabetes” is a condition in which the patient’s pancreas…

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Tooth Loss may be associated with Heart Disease

A recent study, presented at a meeting of the American College of Cardiology reported that “losing teeth may be associated with higher risk for heart disease”.  This is similar to reports in recent years that gum disease is likely associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, possibly due to bacterial levels and associated inflammation.…

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Vaping Related Lung Injury Designated by CDC

A recent article reported, that based on newly issued guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the detrimental effects of Vaping has been given a name.  The new designation of EVALI is an acronym of  “e-cigarette or vaping product use associated lung injury”.  As of October 2019, 49 states and the District of…

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Gum Disease Linked to Alzheimer’s

A recent scientific study published in “Science Advances” indicates a potential link between the bacteria that causes gum disease and Alzheimer’s Disease. Researchers analyzed brain tissue, saliva and spinal fluid, finding evidence of gum disease causing bacteria. A toxic enzyme secreted by the bacteria was also found in brain tissue, with higher levels in individuals…

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Top Dentists Again

  Drs. Linda and Chip Steel have been selected again to Top Dentists.  The listing of selected dentists will be published in the March 2019 edition of Washingtonian Magazine. The selection is based on a survey of dentists throughout the greater Washington DC area, who recommend which other dentists should be included on the list,…

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The Rise of Digital Impression Technology

Taking impressions to make appliances, crowns, bridges and for other dental procedures has never been an enjoyable experience for most patients.  Using traditional materials to make molds of teeth is a process that had remained unchanged for the most part for decades before the development of digital scanning technology.  The old method used various materials…

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Bad Breath …. why and what to do about it.

We have all experienced someone with bad breath (halitosis) during conversation. Sometimes we don’t even have to get close to the other person to smell it. Unfortunately, many times the person with the offending breath isn’t even aware of the problem. A variety of things can cause offensive mouth odors, including food sources, systemic diseases…

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Why is my mouth dry ?

There are a wide variety of reasons why your mouth can feel dry.  Sometimes this is just a temporary condition, but it is possible that this could be a long-lasting concern.  Dry mouth is a very serious situation relative to your oral health (long-term dryness can encourage decay and gum disease) and can be a…

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Foods for a Healthier Smile

The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry recently published a free e-cokbook with the help of nutritionist Karen Krchma.  The cookbook provides some recipes using ingredients that are considered to help promote healthy smiles.  Some of the foods mentioned include : Basil: a natural antibiotic, reduces bacteria in the mouth. Broccoli: forms an acid-resistant film on…

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