Are You Too Embarrassed or Ashamed to See the Dentist?

It’s much more typical than you think.  You haven't been to the dentist in 7 years and even though you’re pretty sure you keep good dental hygiene, you've been having gum and jaw pain.  You’ve discovered what looks to be tooth decay especially in your back molars. You don't know what to do. 

You’re too embarrassed that you'll be judged or that the dentist will think wrong ideas of you.  You say to yourself: “My teeth are the worst the dentist has ever seen,” or “I feel guilty, ashamed, and I’m scared of ‘The Lecture’,” or “I’m worried that the dentist will berate me, humiliate me, or judge me.”

Research has confirmed what we’ve known all along: that “intense embarrassment due to poor dental status or perceived neglect, often with fear of negative social evaluation as chief complaint”, is extremely common among people suffering with dental phobia (Moore et al, 2004).

This is the vicious circle of dental phobia: whatever caused the phobia initially (be it painful or traumatic experiences, hurtful remarks, or something else) leads to avoidance, which in turn means no access to professional dental care, usually resulting in poorer oral health, and at some stage the results of this “neglect” are perceived to be so embarrassing that it’s totally impossible to see a dentist, even when in pain. If shame, embarrassment and guilt are keeping you away from seeing a dentist, you’ve got plenty of company!

Embarrassment is perhaps THE most common concern voiced by people who haven’t been to a dentist in a very long time. It may come as a surprise to some that the days when “the lecture” was part-and-parcel of a visit to the dentist are gone. Dentistry has evolved into an industry which supplies a service to the potential customer – you!

This development mirrors trends seen throughout society. The authoritarian parenting model which used to be so popular has fallen out of favor big-time, to be replaced by tender loving care and open communication. Similarly, dentists nowadays realize that admonishing people is a sure-fire way of keeping them away. Many dentists now endeavor to make dental appointments a positive experience, not only for those whose teeth are in great shape!

As always, beware – there may still be some old-school dentists around who see “lecturing” and negative remarks as a good way of frightening people into compliance. But this has become increasingly rare.

The psychology of embarrassment is pretty interesting. Studies, for example by sociologist Andre Modigliani, have shown that shy people with high levels of empathy – the ability to imagine how others may be feeling – can be more easily embarrassed.  Easy-to-embarrass people also have a tendency to believe that others see them as somehow inadequate.  Other factors which make a sense of shame and embarrassment so common when it comes to dental fear and phobia may include an emphasis on beauty and perfection in modern Western society and – dare I mention it – the fact that the mouth is a zone of sexual attraction.

It may help to know that from the dentist’s perspective, the situation looks very different. First, it’s highly unlikely that any dentist hasn’t seen teeth which are as bad or worse than yours.  We’ve seen everything.  We’ve been trained to help people who are experiencing problems with their teeth and gums – it’s their job to fix these problems. And a lot of dentists view their job as a caring profession – which is what it should be. 

Next, please be aware that teeth don’t fix themselves, and problems with the teeth and gums only get worse unless they’re treated.  This means that delay will not only cost you in terms of your smile and your wallet, it might actually cause a systemic infection, especially sepsis,  that could result in your death.

Finally, if you’re worried that extensive work means extensive cost, we have a great deal of experience in coming up with affordable treatment plans, stopping the worst from happening, and performing repairs in a methodical, logical and cost-effective way.

If you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, make an appointment or give us a call at 860-561-2121.  Our offices are conveniently located in West Hartford Center and in New Britain, CT.  Your teeth will probably not be as bad as you feared, and we’ll get you to have a smile you can be proud of once again.

Keep smiling,

Dr. Elzbieta W. Basil, DMD is a private practice dentist with offices in West Hartford Center and  New Britain, Connecticut.  She is a Clinical Instructor at the UConn School of Dental Medicine, and has won several awards naming her regional “Best Dentist” and “Top Dentist.” She is an active member of the Connecticut State Dental Association and the American Dental Association. Tel: 860-561-2121

White Spots on Teeth: 10 Things You Should Know

There are several possible causes for white spots on teeth, including dental fluorosis, enamel hypoplasia, poor dental hygiene, and eating too many acidic or sugary foods. Although people may see white spots on their teeth as undesirable, they rarely need to be a serious cause for concern from a medical point of view.

Causes

There are several possible causes of white spots on the teeth. A common cause is dental fluorosis. 
People usually get this when they are young if they consumed too much fluoride as a child. It is usually a harmless condition that only tends to develop before the teeth break through the gums.

Another common cause is enamel hypoplasia. This condition occurs when a person's teeth enamel does not form properly. Like fluorosis, hypoplasia only occurs during childhood when a person's teeth are still developing. However, it can increase the risk of tooth decay.

Other causes of white spots on the teeth include poor dental hygiene, especially when someone is wearing braces, or eating too many acidic or sugary foods.

Treatments

There are several possible treatments for white spots on the teeth. The suitability of these treatments may depend on the underlying cause of the white spots and the condition of a person's teeth.

1. Enamel microabrasion

Some people may be able to have microabrasion done to treat their white spots. During this procedure, a dentist removes a small amount of enamel from the teeth to reduce the appearance of the white spots.

This professional treatment is typically followed by teeth bleaching, which can make the teeth appear more uniform in color.

2. Teeth whitening or bleaching

Whitening or bleaching teeth can help to reduce the appearance of white spots and other stains. A variety of teeth whitening products, such as strips and paste, are available over-the-counter (OTC.) People can also buy these products online.  People with white spots can also see a dentist for professional whitening treatments. These treatments tend to use stronger bleaching solutions than those available OTC, which may make them work better.

3. Dental veneer

Dental veneers are thin, protective coverings that attach to the front surface of a person's teeth. They can conceal white spots and other blemishes very effectively.  Dental veneers are only available from a dentist and must be professionally fitted.  This may give you a spectacular smile, but it might not be covered by your insurance..

4. Topical fluoride

A dentist may apply topical fluoride to the teeth of people with enamel hypoplasia. This may encourage the development of enamel on the teeth and help prevent tooth decay.

5. Composite resin

For people with enamel hypoplasia, a dentist may apply composite resin to fill in cavities and to bond the outer enamel of the teeth. This may not be suitable if people have large numbers of white spots on their teeth.

Preventive tips

Practicing excellent dental hygiene can help prevent white spots on teeth as well as other stains, tooth decay, gum disease, or other dental problems. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that people brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste and floss between their teeth once daily.

For most people, white spots on teeth develop before they reach the age of 10 years old. This may vary in some people.  Therefore, it is essential that people encourage their children to have good dental hygiene and other prevention habits. This can help them ensure their teeth stay healthy and strong.

Following the tips below may help prevent white spots from developing on children's teeth:

6. Using the right amount of toothpaste

For children under the age of 3 years old, people should ensure that they are not using more than a smear of toothpaste, or an amount the size of a grain of rice, on their toothbrush. For children over the age of 3 years old, carers should ensure they are not using more than a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.

Young children often fail to spit toothpaste out, so using a small amount can help reduce their overall fluoride exposure. Supervising a child's brushing can help to ensure that they are using an appropriate amount of toothpaste and not swallowing too much.

7. Testing well water

People should consider having their water tested for fluoride levels on a yearly basis if they have had their homes connected to private wells. This policy is vital for anyone who has young children as natural fluoride levels can vary greatly in different places.

8. Following fluoride supplement recommendations

The ADA recommend dietary fluoride supplements for children aged between 6 months and 16 years old living in areas without fluoridated water who have a high risk of developing tooth decay. These supplements should only be used if a doctor or dentist prescribes them for someone.

9. Reducing sugary and acidic foods and drinks

Soda and sports drinks may damage tooth enamel and cause tooth decay. Tooth enamel can be damaged and the risk of tooth decay increased by some foods and drinks, especially ones high in sugars or acids.

Foods and drinks to be aware of include the following:

• citrus juices and fruits, such as grapefruit, lemons, and oranges
• hard candies and other sugary sweets
• sodas and other drinks high in sugars, including sports drinks

While occasionally eating these foods and drinks may be harmless, eating too much or too many can lead to damage and blemishes, including white spots.

Drinking water after consuming these foods can help wash them off the teeth and reduce the chances of damage. Drinking through a straw may also help.

10. Seeing a dentist

Anyone concerned about their dental health, or that of their child, should talk to a dentist.

Although white spots on the teeth may be less than desirable, they are usually not a cause for concern. However, people with enamel hypoplasia may be at increased risk of dental damage and decay.

If a person notices that the white spots on their teeth are changing in size or number, or they are starting to have tooth pain, they should see their dentist.

Dr. Elzbieta W. Basil, DMD, a top dentist with offices in West Hartford Center and New Britain, CT can evaluate the symptoms and condition of the teeth and will recommend a treatment plan, if necessary.  Contact us online, or call for an appointment: 860-561-2121.

Keep smiling,

Dr.Elzbieta W. Basil, DMD is a private practice dentist with offices in West Hartford Center and  New Britain, Connecticut.  She is a Clinical Instructor at the UConn School of Dental Medicine, and has won several awards naming her regional “Best Dentist” and “Top Dentist.” She is an active member of the Connecticut State Dental Association and the American Dental Association. Tel: 860-561-2121

Are You Getting Bad Dentistry? 10 Questions to Ask

Believe it or not, I’ve had many patients come to me with substandard dental work from other dentists. Much of the time, they don’t even know it’s substandard, except in cases where their veneers and crowns are falling off. 

Because many patients can’t tell if they’re getting good dentistry or not, I decided to give you ten questions ask yourself and/or the staff. A bad response to any one of them is a Red Flag, and might make you want to switch dentists.

1.  Do You Have Problems Getting Through to The Dentist or Office?

This is where it all begins. Is it easy to talk to the office and the Dentist, or is it like getting through to the Pope? Is the front desk person kind and open to answering your questions or does he/she respond more harshly? Communication with the dentist and the front desk says a lot about the Dentist and his/her practice.

2.   Is The Office Cheerful and Clean?

What feeling do you get when you walk into the dentist’s office? Does it feel welcoming? Does the staff at the dental office seem happy and helpful? If you’re just given a clipboard and told to sit down without much introduction or sense that they even care you’re there, you may be in the wrong dental office. Additionally, have a look around the office. If the office is dusty and unclean, you are being well-warned that their dental office is not sterile, which means the instruments the Dentist uses to put into your mouth probably won’t be either. If that’s the case, get out of there!

3.   How Long Is The Average Wait?

While I wouldn’t base your decision solely on the wait, because some Dentists may encounter difficult problems they couldn’t plan for that day, it is still something to consider. I try to be very respectful of the patients’ schedules, just as I’d like them to be respectful of mine. I tend to run ontime. Does the office have a TV to distract from long waits? Not a good sign.

4.   Is The Dentist Rough During Dentistry?

A mark of a good dentist is being able to give treatment in a way that minimizes a patient’s pain. Poor Dentists will not worry about minimizing a patient’s pain and will be much rougher in administering routine care like cleanings or giving shots. When your doctor numbs you, is the injection barely noticable, or do they just jab it in?

5.  Will They Show You Their Sterilization Room?

Find out how they clean their equipment. Do they have a sterilization room? Ask to see it. A high quality dental office will not be offended by you asking the question and they might even show you what they use to clean their equipment.

6.  Do You See Good Infection Control Habits?

If your Dentist keeps his/her gloves on after he/she has worked on your mouth and you see him/her rummaging through drawers, writing notes or doing anything else, that’s not a good sign. And if you see your dentist doing any of these things before working on your mouth, that’s an even worse sign.

7.  When They Look At You, Do They See Dollar Signs?

Good Dentists care about their patients and improving their oral health. They aren’t interested in scamming their patients or getting as much money as they can out of them. You may believe it’s impossible to know for sure, but there are some sure ways to figure out where their real intentions lie.

• Extreme and Unnecessary Procedures. While some extreme procedures are necessary depending on the state of your teeth, if your Dentist jumps immediately to that option without covering any other alternatives that might be less expensive, find another Dentist or seek a second opinion. Now, if it is really necessary, they may lay out your options and then tell you which one they recommend, but they shouldn’t force you to choose the most expensive option. Additionally, if this dentist recommends expensive procedures every time you come in, it’s a clear sign they care more about money than about you.
• Upselling. Be cautious of Dentists who try to sell you extra products like bottles of vitamins and herbs that can help your oral health. It will be hard to tell if these products will actually be a help to you or if it’s just their way of making a quick buck.
• Payment. If a dentist requests the full payment for your dental work before the dentist even begins the work, red flag.
• Checking the Bill. If you had a simple dental appointment with no major problems, your bill should reflect that. If a dental office spends a lot of their time itemizing your bill and suggests costly procedures every time you go in, or if they are not willing to work with you on a payment plan, it’s time to find another Dentist.

8.   Is the Dental Work Durable?

There are times when a patient bites into something he or she shouldn’t, and damages good dental work. But if that’s not the case, your dental work should last for years. If your fillings fall out, veneers come off and crowns come loose not long after the work has been completed, it could be a sign that you are seeing a bad dentist. However, if you opened a beer bottle with your teeth and your filling or crown came loose, don’t blame your Dentist.

9.   Who Does the Staff go to for Dentistry?

Get to know your front desk person and dental hygienist. Ask him/her if their family gets their dental work done at that office. If they say no, that should be a red flag for you. If the staff isn’t even comfortable bringing their family there, then you shouldn’t be comfortable going there either.

10.   How Do You Feel After the Work is Done?

With most procedures, the patient feels normal immediately after the anesthetic wears off. After certain infections or dental procedures, it can take a few days to feel normal again. How do you feel 3 days after your appointment? Your Dentist is supposed to improve your dental health not create more problems. A good Dentist can provide his/her patients with routine services without causing you longer discomfort. If you are still experiencing bleeding weeks or months after you have had a root canal, crowns, bridges, or if you dentures keep falling out, then you need to find a new Dentist, no question.

If you feel like you might need to upgrade your dentist, give my office a call at 860-561-2121, or contact us online.

Keep smiling,

Dr.Elzbieta W. Basil, DMD is a private practice dentist with offices in West Hartford Center and  New Britain, Connecticut.  She is a Clinical Instructor at the UConn School of Dental Medicine, and has won several awards naming her regional “Best Dentist” and “Top Dentist.” She is an active member of the Connecticut State Dental Association and the American Dental Association. Tel: 860-561-2121

How to Take Care of Your Mouth When You're Sick

It’s cold and flu season, and when I’m under the weather, one thing always helps me feel a little more like myself. Brushing my teeth.  When I’m sick it actually makes me feel better. My mouth feels clean, and in a way, I feel like my health is starting to improve.

When you have a cold or the flu, taking care of your body is your top priority—and that includes your mouth. Of course it’s important to take care of your dental health all year round, but this is especially so when you’re sick.

Here are some simple ways to care for your dental health when you’re not feeling well:

Practice Good Hygiene

When you’re sick, you know to cover your mouth when you cough and sneeze. Don’t forget to keep up your dental and toothbrush hygiene as well. According to the CDC, the flu virus can live on moist surfaces for 72 hours. The number one rule is not to share your toothbrush anytime, but especially when you are sick.

You also probably don’t need to replace your toothbrush after you’ve been sick. Unless your immune system is severely compromised, the chances of reinfecting yourself are very low. But if you’re still in doubt, throw it out—especially if you’ve had your toothbrush for 3 to 4 months, when it’s time to replace it anyway.

Choose Sugar-Free Cough Drops

Read the label before you pick up a bag at the drug store with an eye to avoid ingredients like fructose or corn syrup. Many cough drops contain sugar, and it is like sucking on candy. Sugar is a culprit when it comes to cavities. The longer you keep a sugary cough drop in your mouth, the more time cavity-causing bacteria has to feast on that sugar, which produces the acid that can leave holes in your teeth.

Swish and Spit After Vomiting

One unfortunate side effect of a stomach flu, among other illnesses, is vomiting. You might be tempted to brush your teeth right away, but it’s actually better to wait. When you vomit, stomach acids are coming in contact with your teeth and coating them. Brush too soon, and you’re just rubbing that acid all over the hard outer shell of your teeth.

Instead, swish with water, a diluted mouth rinse or a mixture of water and 1 tsp. baking soda to help wash the acid away. Spit, and brush about 30 minutes later.

Stay Hydrated to Avoid Dry Mouth

When you’re sick, you need plenty of fluids for many reasons. One is to prevent dry mouth. Not only is it uncomfortable—dry mouth can also put you at greater risk for cavities. The medications you might be taking for a cold or flu—such as antihistamines, decongestants or pain relievers—can also dry out your mouth, so drink plenty of water and suck on sugarless cough drops, throat lozenges or candies to keep that saliva flowing.

Choose the Right Fluids

When it comes to your mouth and your body, one beverage is always best. The safest thing to drink is water. Sports drinks might be recommended to replenish electrolytes when you’re sick, but drink them in moderation and don’t make them a habit after you’ve recovered because unless they are a sugar free version, they contain a lot of sugar—and acid.

You might also want something to warm you up. When you have a cold or the flu, you may want something comforting to get through it, like tea. Not only is it warm, but also contains natural fluoride which helps your teeth. Avoid adding sugar or lemon. Sugar can helps to fuel cavity-causing bacteria, and lemon is acidic. It’s something to keep in mind once you’re feeling 100% again, as well.

Keep smiling,

Dr.Elzbieta W. Basil, DMD is a private practice dentist with offices in West Hartford Center and  New Britain, Connecticut.  She is a Clinical Instructor at the UConn School of Dental Medicine, and has won several awards naming her regional “Best Dentist” and “Top Dentist.” She is an active member of the Connecticut State Dental Association and the American Dental Association. Tel: 860-561-2121

10 Dental Symptoms You Need to Handle Right Away

Having some symptoms and wondering if you need to see the dentist?  Dr. Elzbieta W. Basil, DMD, a family and cosmetic dentist with offices in West Hartford Center and adjacent to the Hospital for Special Care in New Britain, CT, says that according to the American Dental Association, you need to make an appointment with a dentist right away if you have any of the following symptoms:

Symptom: Toothache

If your mouth or jaw hurt, it could be from a toothache. Toothaches usually indicate a cavity but they can also signal gum disease. In some cases, a toothache is a sign of an abscess or impacted tooth. A toothache should be evaluated by a dentist right away to determine the cause of the problem and prevent the tooth from dying.

Symptom: Sensitive Teeth

Dr. Basil says, if your teeth hurt when you drink hot or cold beverages, you may have sensitive teeth. This can be the result of tooth decay, fractured teeth, worn fillings, gum disease, worn tooth enamel or an exposed tooth root due to gum recession. Treatment will depend on the source of sensitivity. If you’re concerned about the sensitivity of your teeth see your dentist for diagnosis and treatment options.

Symptom: Bleeding or Sore Gums

Bleeding or sore gums can be a sign of gingivitis, an early and reversible stage of gum disease, or simply the result of brushing too hard or starting a new flossing routine. If your gums bleed regularly, or enough to worry you, make an appointment with your dentist or physician, it could be a sign that something else is wrong.

Symptom: Mouth Sores

Types of mouth sores include canker sores, cold sores, leukoplakia and candidiasis. They vary in their severity and causes. Mouth sores could be the symptom of a disease or disorder; infection from bacteria, viruses or fungus or result from irritation caused by braces, dentures or the sharp edge of a broken tooth or filling. Your dentist should examine any mouth sore that lasts a week or longer.

Symptom: Bad Breath

Bad breath can be caused by what you eat, not cleaning your mouth, dry mouth, smoking or other medical conditions. “Persistent bad breath can also be one of the warning signs of gum disease,” Dr. Basil said. Brushing twice a day and flossing daily are essential to reducing bad breath and preventing gum disease. Brushing your tongue can help too. If you’re concerned about what’s causing your bad breath, see your dentist. They can determine the cause and treatment plan.

Symptom: Jaw Pain or Popping/Clicking in the Jaw

Many things can cause these symptoms, which can make it difficult to diagnose. Possible causes include sinus problems, toothache, arthritis, injury, teeth grinding, gingivitis or problems with your jaw like TMJ. Your dentist will conduct a thorough exam, which may include X-rays, to determine the source of the pain.

Symptom: Dry Mouth

If you have dry mouth it may be the symptom of a medical disorder or a side effect of certain medications. Saliva is the mouth’s primary defense against tooth decay. It washes away food and other debris, neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth and provides disease-fighting substances throughout the mouth. Your dentist can recommend ways to restore moisture.

Symptom: Oral Piercing Infection

Oral piercings can create a wide range of problems for your health, oral and otherwise. Your mouth is home to huge amounts of bacteria, creating an ideal place for infection to start. If you have any signs of infection—swelling, pain, fever, chills, shaking or a red-streaked appearance around the site of the piercing—contact your dentist or physician immediately.

Symptom: Cracked or Broken Teeth

A cracked or broken tooth can happen for a variety of reasons—brittle teeth, teeth grinding, injury. The crack may be invisible to the naked eye and even X-ray, but they can be incredibly painful and create bigger problems if left untreated. If you experience pain when chewing see your dentist. They can diagnose the cause and develop a plan for treatment.

Symptom: Stained or Discolored Teeth

Over time your teeth can become stained and change color. This is often the result of eating certain foods, such as coffee or tea, smoking, aging, genetics, injury, or certain medications. Whitening options can include over the counter or in office treatments. Check with your dentist about your options for stain removal.

If you have any of the above symptoms and want to make an appointment, please contact Dr. Basil at 860-561-2121, or online by clicking here.

Dr.Elzbieta W. Basil, DMD is a private practice dentist with offices in West Hartford Center and  New Britain, Connecticut.  She is a Clinical Instructor at the UConn School of Dental Medicine, and has won several awards naming her regional “Best Dentist” and “Top Dentist.” She is an active member of the Connecticut State Dental Association and the American Dental Association. Tel: 860-561-2121

6 Habits That Harm Your Teeth (And the Fix)

It’s the New Year, and while you’re making resolutions, you should resolve to avoid common habits that can harm your teeth.  There are many things people do without thinking about them that are really very harmful to your teeth in terms of function, erosion and possible fracture.  

Dr. Elzbieta W. Basil, DMD, a family and cosmetic dentist with offices in West Hartford Center and New Britain, CT lists several of the most common causes of dental injuries and issues that, in her experience, people do absentmindedly—and several simple, smile-friendly resolutions to them that you can start today.

Nail Biting

The habit: This nervous habit can chip teeth and impact your jaw. “Placing your jaw for long periods of time in a protruding position can place pressure on it, which is associated with jaw dysfunction,” Dr. Basil says.

The solution: Bitter-tasting nail polishes, stress reduction and setting small, realistic goals can help. If certain situations are triggers, hold something to keep your fingers busy.

Brushing Too Hard

The habit: Brushing for two minutes twice a day is one of the best habits you can get into. Just make sure you’re not trying too hard. Brushing with a hard toothbrush, or brushing too hard, can damage teeth and irritate gums.

The solution: Use a soft toothbrush with the ADA Seal of Acceptance at the proper pressure. “Don’t think ‘scrub.’  Think ‘massage,’" she says. “Save the hard toothbrush for cleaning the grout in the bathroom tile.”

Grinding and Clenching

The habit: “This can cause chipping or cracking of the teeth, as well as muscle tenderness or joint pain,” Dr. Basil says. “You might also feel like you can’t open your mouth wide or chew with pain.”

The solution: “Relaxation exercises and staying aware makes a difference,” she says. A nighttime mouthguard can also help. “You’ll have less tooth damage, less pain and muscle soreness and better sleep.”

Chewing Ice Cubes

The habit: “Tooth enamel is a crystal. Ice is a crystal. When you push two crystals against each other, one will break,” Dr. Basil says. “Most of the time it’s the ice, but sometimes the tooth or a filling will break.”

The solution: Drink chilled beverages without ice, or use a straw so you're not tempted. “The risk of chewing ice is greater than any pleasure that comes from chewing it,” she says. “Besides, ice is really cold!”

Constant Snacking

The habit: Grazing all day, especially on sugary foods and drinks, puts you at a higher risk for cavities. When you eat, cavity-causing bacteria feast leftover food, producing an acid that attacks the outer shell of your teeth.

The solution: Eat balanced meals to feel fuller, longer. If you need a snack, make sure it's low in fat and sugar. If you indulge in the occasional sugary treat, follow it with a big glass of water to wash away leftover food.

Using Your Teeth As Tools

The habit: Your teeth were made for eating, not to stand in as a pair of scissors or hold things when your hands are full. When you do this, you put yourself at a higher risk of cracking your teeth, injuring your jaw or accidentally swallowing something you shouldn’t.

The solution: Stop and find something or someone to give you a hand. Your mouth will thank you.

But if you have existing damage or develop new damage, Dr. Basil provides full service dental care including:

Tooth-Colored Fillings
Bonding
Veneers
Root Canal Therapy
Dental Implants, and
Crowns and Bridges

Dr.Elzbieta W. Basil, DMD is a private practice dentist with offices in West Hartford Center and  New Britain, Connecticut.  She is a Clinical Instructor at the UConn School of Dental Medicine, and has won several awards naming her regional “Best Dentist” and “Top Dentist.” She is an active member of the Connecticut State Dental Association and the American Dental Association. Tel: 860-561-2121

How Not to Wreck Your Teeth This Christmas

With the festive countdown now in full swing, your oral health may be fairly far down on your Christmas to-do list. However, according to Dr. Elzbieta W. Basil, DMD, who practices cosmetic dentistry and family dentistry in West Hartford Center and New Britain, CT, there are some very common ways you could unknowingly damage your pearly whites over the festive period. “No one is going to spoil your fun or criticize you for a little overindulgence this Christmas,” says Dr. Basil, but she gives a few handy tips you can follow to limit the impact on your oral health.

Grazing

With so many delicious treats on tap at this time of year, it’s easy to find yourself almost continuously grazing over the festive period. According to Dr. Basil, this drip-feed approach is a major cause of tooth decay, but a simple adjustment to when you eat sugar means you can still indulge a little whilst protecting your teeth. “It’s not the volume of sugar you eat that damages your teeth, it’s how often you eat it,” said Dr. Basil. “Every time we have something sugary, bacteria in our mouths produce acids that can cause tooth decay. If you’re continually snacking, your teeth will be under constant attack. This means it’s far better if you polish off your chocolate coins in one go, or as part of a meal, rather than grazing on them throughout the day.” Brilliant – permission to scoff your festive treats all at once.

Wrapping presents

We’ve all been there; it’s Christmas Eve and you’ve left wrapping presents to the last minute. You’re hastily trying to keep the roll of paper steady with one hand whilst frantically ripping off strips of sticky tape with your teeth. However, this is a potential tooth-hazard waiting to happen said Dr. Basil: “You put enormous pressure on the edges of your teeth when you tear sticky tape, and it’s an easy way to crack or weaken teeth, or even dislodge a crown or veneer,” she says. “Invest in a tape dispenser and save yourself a potential tooth injury.”

Makeshift toothpicks

Nothing is more annoying than being unable to reach something stuck in your teeth, and this could happen at some point over the festive season with all the yuletide feasting. However, using something other than proper dental floss or interdental brushes could be damaging. “Poking at your teeth and gums with sharp improvised tools can cause bleeding and tooth injuries,” advises Dr. Basil. “Try to gently work trapped food loose with dental floss or interdental brushes. It can also be helpful to try and soften the object by swishing warm water around your mouth. If you can’t dislodge it and it’s starting to cause you pain, speak to your dentist.”

Chewy Christmas Candy

Christmas chocolate selection boxes often come with the ever-popular caramel and toffee sweets. While these are delicious, they are a tooth-hazard waiting to happen if you have any kind of dental restoration. “Toffees are extremely sticky and have the power to pull off dental restorations such as fillings, crowns, bridges, or veneers,” says Dr. Basil. “Opt for chocolates that melt and leave the mouth quickly to limit any dental damage.”

Prosecco

Christmas in your house might not be complete without thise sparkling wine, but according to Dr. Basil it packs a punch on your oral health. “Prosecco is one of the most dentally-damaging drinks if drunk frequently due to the acid, sugar and alcohol levels,” she says. “Enjoy it in moderation and make sure you limit the erosive effects on your tooth enamel by drinking plenty of water in between glasses.”

Cracking nuts

It may sound too obvious, but cracking nuts with your teeth is a bad idea that never goes out of style. “Believe it or not, dentists do see patients who thought they’d crack nuts open with their teeth. The most common result: a fractured molar,” Dr. Basil said. “Nut shells are incredibly hard and teeth are a completely inappropriate tool to open them with. Always use nutcrackers.”

Christmas Contact Injuries

According to Dr. Basil, dental accidents can happen quickly and it can be difficult to completely avoid them, but you can be mindful of potential risks. “Common dental injuries can occur from overexcited children and pets jumping up and accidently knocking into your jaw or mouth,” she says. “It’s also common at crowded social gatherings for someone to brush past you and inadvertently knock your glass into your teeth while you’re taking a sip of a drink.”

Forgetting to brush

There are seemingly limitless jobs to get done in the run up to the Big Day, and brushing your teeth is often seen as a chore that can drop down the priorities list. “Forgetting to brush your teeth on occasion is unlikely to do your teeth any harm,” says Dr.Basil. “However, if you get into the habit of not brushing regularly over the whole festive period, you could put your teeth and gums at increased risk of developing problems. Aim to brush for two minutes, twice a day. It can be helpful to brush your teeth as soon as you wake up - before you do anything else - to avoid forgetting.”

Opening bottles with teeth

Just as with nuts, never open bottles with your teeth. “After a few drinks, opening bottles with your teeth may seem like a harmless idea, but it’s obviously got the potential to cause serious dental damage,” says Dr. Basil. “When hosting Christmas parties, make sure you’ve got plenty of bottle openers handy for guests to use so that no one’s tempted to resort to using their teeth.”

Ice cubes

While blenders are ideal for crushing the ice in your Christmas cocktails, your teeth are not. “Chewing on ice can create microscopic fractures in healthy tooth enamel and can break teeth – especially if you have any fillings, crowns, or bridges,” says Dr.Basil. “For those with sensitive teeth, the cold can also worsen dental pain.”

And if you do get into trouble

Despite your best efforts to follow this advice, things happen. If you encounter a dental injury, Dr. Basil offers full restorative family dentistry and cosmetic dentistry services, including:

• TMJ Treatment
• Root Canal Therapy
• Repair of Dental Fractures
• Bonding
• Veneers
• Crowns and Bridges, and
• Dental Implants

Enjoy the holidays, and stay safe!

Dr.Elzbieta W. Basil, DMD is a private practice dentist with offices in West Hartford Center and  New Britain, Connecticut.  She is a Clinical Instructor at the UConn School of Dental Medicine, and has won several awards naming her regional “Best Dentist” and “Top Dentist.” She is an active member of the Connecticut State Dental Association and the American Dental Association. Tel: 860-561-2121