1.) What sterilization techniques are practiced?
2.) Is tooth bleaching safe and effective?
3.) Are silver fillings still used today?
4.) What insurance companies does Dr. Reid and Dr. Perrett work with?
5.) How can I check the fluoride content of my water?
6.) What is current with dental implants?
7.) Are electric toothbrushes effective?
Q: What sterlization techniques are practiced?
We use the latest state-of-the-art equipment for sterilization of instruments and operatories. Instruments are cleaned by hand, then by ultrasonic cleaning prior to sterilization. Instruments are pre-bagged before they are sterilized, and these sterile packets are not opened again until the patient is seated and the instruments are needed for a procedure. This "closed packet" system provides the utmost in quality sterilization. We use a wide range of disposable items in the dental office these days. All operating surfaces are cleaned and then disinfected between each patient.
Q: Is tooth bleaching safe and effective?
For years, dentists and patients have wanted a simple and effective way to whiten teeth. Home bleaching of teeth with carbamide peroxide has now been available for over ten years. Carbamide peroxide has been used as an antiseptic in the mouth for approximately forty years and has been proven to be safe. The home bleaching system consists of a set of "retainer-like" trays that the patient fills with bleaching solution. The trays are worn for a certain period of time each day for two to three weeks. The results are amazing!
Home bleaching sometimes causes transient gum irritation or tooth sensitivity. No permanent damage is done to the teeth. If these conditions do occur, I advise the patient to discontinue the bleaching for a day or two and then go back to it.
Unsupervised bleaching of teeth can be dangerous because there are different formulations of bleaching solutions available. Long-term unsupervised use can lead to changes in the biological make-up of the mouth fluids. This can cause chronic irritations or infections.
I didn't start prescribing home bleaching until just a few years ago. Sometimes dental products are released to dentists and the public before their success is proven.
Home bleaching techniques have changed significantly over the years. Now it is a predictable process for most patients. There has now been a lot of research proving the long-term safety of bleaching. Home bleaching does not work for everyone but, in most cases, it is a very effective, predictable and safe process.
Q: Are silver fillings still used today?
Silver amalgam fillings have been used by dentists for decades. They are made of an amalgamation, or mixture, of several metal materials. Some of these materials are lead, silver, copper and mercury. The material is soft and malleable for about three minutes after it is mixed and then hardens. It has never been shown that any appreciable amount of these materials leaches out of the teeth after it is set. Silver fillings have never been shown to cause any systemic or localized health problems. Scare tactics have been used on the public at times to promote other types of restorative filling materials, but much good dental research has been done that shows silver amalgam fillings to be safe.
There are alternatives to silver fillings. Porcelain or white fillings have improved significantly over the years. There are actually a variety of tooth-colored fillings available today, each with different benefits and risks. The patient and dentist are lucky to have so many options available. Each situation needs to be evaluated individually. Contact: www.ada.org/consumer/faq
Q: With what insurance companies does our office accept?
We are willing to work with any insurance company that allows you to select your own provider (indemnity plans). We are also Delta Premier, Anthem Dental Blue- PPO 300, Cigna PPO and DeCare Dental providers. We will gladly do your insurance billing for you. As a patient, please be prepared to pay your annual deductible (if one applies) and the designated percentage that insurance does not cover.
Q: How can I check the fluoride content of my water?
It's wise to know the fluoride content of the water at your home. Colorado Springs is notorious for its high natural fluoride content. Some of the earliest research for fluoridation of the metropolitan water systems nationwide was done here in Colorado Springs.
Some fluoride in the water is good for hardening enamel in developing teeth. Too much fluoride causes brown or white stains and can weaken teeth. Unfortunately, the fluoride content in homes can vary greatly from place to place. The best way to know is by contacting the Water Lab Department at www.csu.org or 719-444-4560. E-mail address: jrae@csu.org
The American Dental Association recommends a fluoride content of 1.0 parts per million as optimal. If your house fluoride level is less then 1.0 ppm, you can give your children fluoride supplements. If your fluoride level is high, you can keep bottled water available for your children to drink. Ask your dentist for his opinion.
Q: What is current with dental implants?
The current generation of implants is called root form osseointegrated implants. They are shaped like a root and they actually "knit" to the bone. The root portion of the implant is first placed in the bone and later a post and crown is placed on the implant by the general dentist.
Dental implants are also used in denture patients who need support for ill-fitting dentures. A "snap-like" attachment can be used on a implant to allow a loose denture to snap into place. Denture wearers love the security and increased function they have with dental implants.
Q: Are electric toothbrushes effective?
Years ago electric toothbrushes were considered virtually worthless by the dental profession. Technology has changed so much that research now shows that some electric toothbrushes are more effective than manual brushing. This is a tremendous advance, since the success of all dental treatment is influenced by the patient's homecare.
Currently, the Interplak, the Braun and the Sonicare brushes are considered good. I have used them all and I now like the Sonicare best. The bristles of the Sonicare vibrate at a high or sonic rate. This not only dislodges plaque, but also can actually destroy bacteria cells. The vibrating action actually extends beyond the tip of the bristle so it can clean below the gum line. Use of a good electric brush can be a significant inexpensive way to avoid periodontal problems. I recommend them for everyone.
Brushing and flossing in the early years.
Parents should begin brushing a child's teeth as soon as the first tooth erupts through the gum. A childsize brush with soft, rounded or polished bristles is recommended, and should be replaced when the bristles become worn. A pea-size amount of fluoride toothpaste can be used after the child is old enough not to swallow it. By age four or five, children should be able to brush their own teeth twice a day with supervision to make sure they are doing a thorough job.
By age seven, children should be able to brush alone. Flossing should begin when any two teeth touch. At about age eight, the child should be able to floss under supervision. Check with your dentist to determine if your child has the proper skills to brush and floss properly.
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