The Truth About Oral Piercings

A leading British health charity is calling on people to understand the risks associated with oral piercings after uncovering their remarkable popularity.  Research carried out by the UK based Oral Health Foundation found tongue piercings are particularly popular, with 43% of people with oral piercings opting for them. A third (33%) of people had a lip piercing, with cheek (3%) and gum (7%) piercings much less common.

The poll also found that 13% of people with oral piercings had more than one, highlighting the current popularity of the trend.

The charity wants everyone who has, or is considering getting, an oral piercing to understand the risks associated with them and take the necessary steps to avoid the health problems which they are related to.

The study highlighted facts that dentists, like West Hartford Dentist, Dr. ElzbietaW. Basil, DMD already knows.   Body piercing is a popular form of self-expression. Oral piercings or tongue splitting may look cool, but they can be dangerous to your health. That’s because your mouth contains millions of bacteria, and infection and swelling often occur with mouth piercings. For instance, your mouth and tongue could swell so much that you close off your airway or you could possibly choke if part of the jewelry breaks off in your mouth. In some cases, you could crack a tooth if you bite down too hard on the piercing, and repeated clicking of the jewelry against teeth can also cause damage. Oral piercing could also lead to more serious infections, like hepatitis or endocarditis.

If you pierce your tongue, lips, cheeks or uvula (the tiny tissue that hangs at the back of the throat,) it can interfere with speech, chewing or swallowing. It may also cause:

• Infection, pain and swelling. Your mouth is a moist environment, home to huge amounts of breeding bacteria, and an ideal place for infection. An infection can quickly become life threatening if not treated promptly. It’s also possible for a piercing to cause your tongue to swell, potentially blocking your airway.
• Damage to gums, teeth and fillings. A common habit of biting or playing with the piercing can injure your gums and lead to cracked, scratched or sensitive teeth. Piercings can also damage fillings.
• Hypersensitivity to metals. Allergic reactions at the pierced site are also possible.
• Nerve damage. After a piercing, you may experience a numb tongue that is caused by nerve damage that is usually temporary, but can sometimes be permanent. The injured nerve may affect your sense of taste, or how you move your mouth. Damage to your tongue’s blood vessels can cause serious blood loss.
• Excessive drooling. Your tongue piercing can increase saliva production.
• Dental appointment difficulties. The jewelry can get in the way of dental care by blocking X-rays.

If you already have piercings, Dr. Elzbieta W. Basil, DMD advises patients in her West Hartford dental office and her New Britain dental office to:

• Contact your dentist or physician immediately if you have any signs of infection—swelling, pain, fever, chills, shaking or a red-streaked appearance around the site of the piercing.
• Keep the piercing site clean and free of any matter that may collect on the jewelry by using a mouth rinse after every meal.
• Try to avoid clicking the jewelry against teeth and avoid stress on the piercing. Be gentle and aware of the jewelry’s movement when talking and chewing.
• Check the tightness of your jewelry periodically (with clean hands). This can help prevent you from swallowing or choking if the jewelry becomes dislodged.
• When taking part in sports, remove the jewelry and protect your mouth with a mouthguard.
• See your dentist regularly, and remember to brush twice a day and floss daily.

Of course the best option is to consider removing mouth jewelry before it causes a problem. Don’t pierce on a whim. The piercing will be an added responsibility to your life, requiring constant attention and upkeep. Talk to Dr. Basil for more information—and make sure you take out your piercing before a dental appointment! 

How to Manage Your Fear of the Dentist

I had a class at UConn Dental School called “Fear and Anxiety,” precisely because a significant number of people have dental phobias. Some people would rather be anywhere but the dentist’s office.

Recently, one of my patients reported that after her wisdom teeth experience in her late teens, her fear began to compound. Her stitches broke open after the surgery, meaning some of the work had to be redone. She also had braces for four years permanently linking dental work and pain in her mind.

About one in five people have some fear of going to the dentist, often stemming from an experience or general life anxiety.  If you have some degree of dental phobia, really the first thing you should do is tell the dentist that you are afraid, and talk as specifically as you can about it. Are you afraid of the needle? Are you afraid of the sights? Are you afraid of the sounds? Is it the smells?  Is it just the environment?

The more your dental team knows, the better the plan of action can be put into effect.  Some of the best ways to cope are:

• Hand Signals: One of the best ways to cope is for the patient to try to establish control, so the patient can use hand signals or another type of method to let the dentist know when you might need a break. 
• Deep Breathing: Steady, even, deep breathing can help calm you during moments you think will be unpleasant.
• Distraction:  Listening to music through headphones, a podcast, or watching a video is very effective, and may take your mind off of the procedure altogether.
• Medication:  Some dentists offer sedation, which I don’t recommend.  However, I offer relaxation medication to be taken prior to the appointment, if necessary.

If the patient had a difficult experience in their dental history, the most important thing is to be realistic.  Despite your fears, due to modern equipment and techniques, most dental work is now relatively pain-free.  Even modern root canals are mostly just boring now, and not painful.  They just take a long time.

A small, but significant, percentage of people have an overriding dental phobia, which prevents them from getting the dental care they need.  That can have huge implications, as small problems are missed and turn into big ones.  Cavities, gum disease, early signs of oral cancer and other abnormalities in the mouth, neck or face are all on the radar during a dental exam.  For these people, keeping in mind that dental care is an important part of maintaining overall health is key to allow them to get through a visit. 

 

If you have a dental phobia, first find a dentist you trust.   Everyone in our West Hartford dental office and our New Britain dental office does their best to make every patient comfortable.  And if you practice good oral hygiene, you’ll minimize the number of procedures you might have to have.

Why Kathy Bates Chose Invisalign®

Kathy Bates is an accomplished, versatile performer and Oscar® winner.  Although she's taken on many different roles in her career, Kathy Bates is perhaps best known for portraying creepy characters — like the ones she played in the film Misery and the TV show American Horror Story.  So, when recently revealed in an interview, "I noticed my teeth were moving around," was she exaggerating for a sinister effect — or was it for real?

In fact, the celebrated actress was describing how her teeth had literally changed positions over time. That's why she decided to get orthodontic treatment in her fifties.

What's more, the changes she noticed aren't unusual. Over time, teeth really can — and do — move around in the mouth. (If they didn't, it would much more difficult for dentists to bring them into better alignment.) Many people don't realize that teeth aren't solidly anchored in bone — instead, they are held in their bony sockets by a network of stretchy fibers called the periodontal ligament. Dentists and orthodontists, like West Hartford cosmetic dentist, Dr. Elzbieta W. Basil, DMD, can straighten teeth by applying just the right amount of gentle force to teeth, using appliances such as traditional braces, FastBraces®, or Invisalign® clear aligners.  They all work the same way — but Kathy Bates, like many adults, opted for the aligners.

"When I heard about Invisalign®, I thought, hmm, maybe this is better than getting braces, so I'll give it a try," she said. "And I'm really glad I did."

Why? For one thing, they're more discreet. Aligners consist of clear plastic trays that are custom-made to fit over your teeth perfectly. Even from right up close, it's difficult or impossible to tell if you're wearing them. (And that's something that just can't be said about braces.) Plus, while they must be worn for 22 hours every day, they can be removed for cleaning, eating, or special occasions. So if you're concerned that braces don't fit your image, aligners might be right for you.

Here's how they work: The aligner trays are custom-made from impressions (digital or physical models) of your own teeth. As you go through treatment, you'll get a new tray about every two weeks. Each one causes your teeth to move just a little bit. All together, they can make a big change in your smile. Aligners may not be appropriate in every situation, but many people can enjoy the benefits of this effective and unobtrusive treatment. After an examination, your dentist or orthodontist can recommend your best options for orthodontic treatment.

Best of all, there's no age limit for getting straighter teeth: As long as they are otherwise healthy, teeth can be moved at any age. In fact, about one in five orthodontic patients today is an adult, and many opt for clear aligners — like Kathy Bates.

In addition to Invisalign®, West Hartford cosmeticdentist, Dr. Elzbieta W. Basil, DMD, also offers FastBraces®, which may be able to attain a final result with only one wire in just six (6) months.  These procedures can be performed in either her West Hartford Center dental office or in her Downtown New Britain dental office.

Whatever you decide, there are more treatment options than ever.  

Dr. Basil's Ultimate Toothpaste Guide

It is common knowledge that we should all see the dentist every six months. But what should be happening between appointments? Regular brushing, flossing and using fluoride rinse are the obvious answers to keeping a healthy mouth. However, if you’re like most people, picking the “right” toothpaste can be extremely overwhelming. Dr. Elzbieta W. Basil, DMD, cosmetic dentist with dental offices in West Hartford and New Britain, offers you this handy guide.

Tartar Control Toothpaste

This particular formula is a good choice for people that are prone to tartar and are looking to prevent buildup. Tartar control toothpastes contain ingredients that are effective in breaking down plaque on the teeth before it hardens into more difficult to remove plaque. Remember, this toothpaste does not help to prevent tartar buildup below the gum line but should be used to as a preventative measure.

Whitening Toothpaste

Almost every brand offers some sort of whitening toothpaste. While some products contain harsh materials that gently scrub away surface stains, some companies use peroxide to whiten. While popular, whitening toothpastes can often cause sensitivity and is not recommended for children under the age of 18. Consult your dentist for safer, cost effective options.

Toothpaste for Sensitivity

Specially formulated toothpaste for sensitive teeth is great for individuals that experience discomfort when eating or drinking hot or cold foods. These toothpastes are usually less abrasive and contain either strontium chloride or potassium nitrate. Why these chemicals? These compounds aid in the reduction of sensitivity by inhibiting the passageways that travels through the teeth to the nerves. Consider Sensodyne and Fluorodex as good choices. These are also recommended to be used prior to Zoom! Tooth Whitening, which Dr. Basil offers in both her West Hartford Dental Office and her New Britain Dental Office.

 

Children’s Toothpaste

It is incredibly important for your kids to have their own, specially formulated toothpaste. We suggest you start with a “training” toothpaste for toddlers, since these are designed to be safe to swallow (just in case)! Children’s Specific Toothpaste is the best choice for older kids. It is similar to adult toothpaste but typically comes in more kid-friendly flavors and contains less fluoride. Consult your dentist if you’re still unsure which brand is best!

Natural Toothpastes 

While some of these have some devoted followers, Dr. Basil recommends these only if they contain fluoride. 

A bonus note on fluoride: Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent tooth decay, and promote remineralization of tooth structures However, excessive fluoride can stain the teeth, which is why kid’s toothpaste typically contains a smaller concentration.

Always make sure the toothpaste you choose has earned the approval of the American Dental Association. Remember to set a good example by brushing your teeth twice daily and encourage your children to join in on the fun!

Chemicals in Food Packaging May Damage Your Children's Teeth

According to a recent study presented at the 2016 European Congress of Endocrinology in Munich, Germany, early exposure to two chemicals often found in food packaging and fungicides may cause damage to children's teeth that can never be reversed, a new study finds.

Lead study author Dr. Katia Jedeon, of the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), and colleagues found exposure to the chemicals bisphenol A (BPA) and vinclozolin may interfere with hormones responsible for the growth of dental enamel.

BPA and vinclozolin have been identified as endocrine disruptors (EDs) in numerous studies. This means they can interfere with hormone functioning in mammals, increasing the risk of reproductive problems, cancer, births defects, and various other conditions.

BPA is used in the production of certain plastics and resins, many of which are used for food and drink packaging (especially bottles containing beverages and the resins that coat the inside of food cans) while vinclozolin is a fungicide used to protect vineyards, orchards, and golf courses.

These researchers noted that previous animal studies have indicated that EDs may be related to a condition called molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH), which is estimated to affect up to 18 percent of children aged 6-9 years.   

MIH is a developmental condition in which enamel defects occur in the first permanent teeth, most commonly the molars and incisors. Such a defect is irreversible; once tooth enamel is damaged, it cannot grow back.  Children with MIH can experience heightened tooth sensitivity, particularly to cold foods and drinks, and they are at greater risk for dental caries. Their teeth may be creamy, yellow, or brown in appearance, and they may chip away easily.

For their study, Dr. Jedeon and colleagues conducted two experiments to gain a better understanding of how exposure to EDs might be associated with MIH. They first exposed rats to daily doses of either BPA alone or a combination of BPA and vinclozolin from birth for 30 days. Doses were equivalent to the average daily dose a human would be exposed to.  At the end of the 30 days, the researchers collected cells from the surface of the rats' teeth.

On analyzing the cells, they found that exposure to BPA and vinclozolin altered the expression of two genes - KLK4 and SLC5A8 - that regulate tooth enamel mineralization.

Next, the researchers cultured ameloblast cells of rats, which are cells that deposit enamel during tooth development. They found that these cells contain sex hormones - including estrogen and testosterone - that increase the expression of genes that produce tooth enamel.  Interestingly, they found that testosterone increases the expression of the KLK4 and SLC5A8 genes.

Because both BPA and vinclozolin are known to inhibit the effect of male sex hormones, the authors say their findings indicate that the chemicals may lead to MIH by blocking hormones needed for development of tooth enamel.   The study’s lead author, Dr. Katia Jedeon, stated, "Tooth enamel starts at the third trimester of pregnancy and ends at the age of 5, so minimizing exposure to endocrine disruptors at this stage in life as a precautionary measure would be one way of reducing the risk of enamel weakening."

How can you avoid BPA?

• Use BPA-free products. Manufacturers are creating more and more BPA-free products. Look for products labeled as BPA-free. If a product isn't labeled, keep in mind that some, but not all, plastics marked with recycle codes 3 or 7 may be made with BPA.
• Cut back on cans. Reduce your use of canned foods since most cans are lined with BPA-containing resin.
• Avoid heat. The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, part of the National Institutes of Health, advises against microwaving polycarbonate plastics or putting them in the dishwasher, because the plastic may break down over time and allow BPA to leach into foods.
• Use alternatives. Use glass, porcelain or stainless steel containers for hot foods and liquids instead of plastic containers.

The Most Recognizable Accessory in Sports

In Game 6 of the NBA finals, Stephen Curry fouled out for the first time this season, and threw his mouth guard, hitting a fan in the face (he was also ejected from the game).  Curry immediately apologized, and the fan said he was very polite about it.  However, it cost the two-time MVP $25,000 as a fine from the NBA.

It turns out that Curry's mouth guard is the most recognizable accessory in sports.   Whenever he's at the free-throw line, Curry removes his mouthguard from where it's supposed to be, and chews it. It's a tad peculiar, but also unique. And, apparently, it also has a legitimate impact on his performance. So don't expect a change anytime soon (via Sports Illustrated):

“Some fan studied it. He said I shoot 2% better on free throws with it out. And I think he’s right. Because when I shoot a free throw with it in, I always go, Whoa, that’s weird. It’s where it’s supposed to be.”

 And here's what Curry had to say about it last August when he was on Jimmy Kimmel Live:

In fact one of his mouth guards is being auctioned off for charity, with a starting bid of $5,000. 

Obviously, the mouth guard is working for him — and we think wearing it every time he plays is a great decision. While many people associate mouth guards with sports like boxing and football, accident statistics tell a different story. In fact, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, two ‘non-collision’ sports — basketball and baseball — cause the most injuries to the face, jaws and teeth! Other sports that carry significant risks of orofacial injury include skiing, gymnastics, bicycling, soccer… and some two dozen more. That’s why a mouthguard is such an essential piece of protective gear for athletes at all levels.

What’s the best kind of mouth guard? The one you wear all the time! And that’s going to be the one that fits most comfortably and offers the highest level of protection. In other words, one that is custom-made just for you. There’s simply no other mouth guard that offers that degree of comfort and safety… not the “off-the-rack” ones at big box stores, not even the “boil-and-bite” types that you mold at home.  

Only dentists can offer a custom-fabricated mouth guard made from a model of your own mouth. It’s sure to fit perfectly, and it covers more of your bite than the others. It’s quite reasonable in cost — especially when you compare it to the potential cost of dental work if you don’t wear one. Mouth guards are turning up more frequently in all levels of athletic competition… and this trend is likely to continue, as more and more athletes, coaches and parents learn about the extra margin of safety they provide.  West Hartford dentist, Dr. Elzbieta W. Basil, DMD, can make you a custom mouth guard for sports, to protect that winning smile.

Do mouth guards have other benefits? Stephen Curry seems to think so. He says chewing on his “kind of calms me down, especially when I’m at the free throw line, just getting my rhythm.” We’re glad it helps — and doubly glad that when the action’s heating up, he puts it back in his mouth where it belongs!

Looking forward to a thrilling finale,

Crooked Teeth And Cavities

Many dental patients in and around West Hartford hold the belief that orthodontics only change the look of your teeth. Consequently, they think that the only reason to straighten your teeth is if you are interested in cosmetic dentistry.

The fact is that your ability to clean your teeth is enhanced when your teeth are straight and uncrowded.

When uneven teeth begin to crowd together, it becomes difficult to make important daily cleanings effective. And, when your teeth aren’t cleaned properly, problems with plaque build-up, cavities, and gum disease ordinarily ensue.

If you are curious if your teeth are crowding or if your bite is not aligned, then you need to visit your West Hartford dentist.  At the West Hartford dental office and New Britain dental office of Dr. Elzbieta W. Basil, DMD,  we can evaluate whether or not you need orthodontics.  We can treat many cases with FastBraces® (only one wire and approximately 6 months to completion) or Invisalign® nearly invisible braces.

Also, if you feel that the appearance of your teeth is an issue, ask us about a smile makeover. There are numerous revolutionary cosmetic dentistry procedures performed daily. These include teeth whitening, veneers, dental implants, crowns, and more!  We are currently accepting new patients, so if you are in or around West Hartford, or New Britain, give us a call at 860-561-2121.

We can answer any questions you have about our top services, which are:

Zoom whitening

porcelain veneers

smile design

dental crowns

Invisalign® and FastBraces®

We hope to see you soon!