Dr Paul D Whitney, DDS

CLEANING DENTURES

2010-03-16T13:12:00.001-07:00

Dentures may be “false teeth,” but they still must be cleaned the same way that natural teeth are. As with real teeth, dentures are subject to buildups of sticky plaque, which poses the threat of infection and inflammation for gums. With this in mind, denture wearers are strongly urged to either brush their prosthetic teeth or soak them in cleaning solution. Arguably, the best cleaning method is brushing with toothpaste. However, for those who experience difficulty brushing their dentures effectively, soaking can remove as much plaque as brushing. For a short soak of about 15 minutes, enzymatic and effervescent solutions are probably equally effective at removing plaque. For longer soaks (up to eight hours), enzyme denture-cleaning solutions may be preferable.

It is important to treat your dentures like you would treat your natural teeth. Our practice is dedicated to offering the best comprehensive dental treatment available, and our focus is always on you and your needs. At the office of PAUL D. WHITNEY, D.D.S., we provide gentle dental care for the entire family. Do you have dental problems that need professional attention? Please call 928.526.4314 to schedule an appointment. Our staff is made up of well-trained professionals who work together as a team to bring you the highest quality treatment in a warm, caring setting at 5200 E. Cortland Blvd., Suite C-4. If Time, Quality & Gentle Care are Important to You, We are Here to Serve YOU! Visit us at www.eastflagdentist.com for more information.

P.S. Ultrasonic cleaning is about as effective as brushing when it comes to cleaning dentures.

GOOD ORAL HEALTH PROMOTES CLEAR THINKING

2010-03-16T13:09:00.002-07:00

There is already research that links gum disease with heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease. Now, a recent study suggests that gum disease may also be associated with poorer thinking skills. Researchers found that adults aged 60 and older with the highest levels of the gum disease-causing pathogen Porphyromonas gingivalis were three times more likely to experience trouble recalling a three-word sequence over time than those with lower levels of the pathogen. Adults with the highest levels of the pathogen were also two times more likely to fail three-digit reverse subtraction tests. It is thought that gum disease influences brain function through several mechanisms, including causing body-wide inflammation, a risk factor for loss of mental function.

If you have concerns or questions about the well being of your teeth and gums, call the office of PAUL D. WHITNEY, D.D.S. at 928.526.4314. Please don’t let unwarranted fears keep you from maintaining your dental health. Your chances of needing expensive treatment in the future because of neglect today are a far greater concern. The key to dental health is routine preventive care. Most insurance companies allow two cleanings per year. Have you had yours this year? We’re located at 5200 E. Cortland Blvd., Suite C-4, where we are currently accepting new patients. If Time, Quality & Gentle Care are Important to You, We are Here to Serve YOU! Visit us at www.eastflagdentist.com for more information.

P.S. As scientists slowly collect evidence that links oral health with brain function and overall health, patients have more reason than ever to brush and floss and visit the dentist regularly.

SUFFICIENT BONE FOR AN IMPLANT?

2010-03-16T13:02:00.002-07:00

One of the primary requirements for successful dental implant surgery is a sufficient amount of bone to accommodate the titanium implant. In most cases, bone will usually fill in the socket left by an extraction within three months. However, if the walls of the socket are particularly thin, there may not be enough bone to accept the implant. This is particularly true of the upper and lower front teeth, where there may be only a thin ridge of bone (unlike the wide area of jawbone at the back of the mouth, where the molars reside). If so, a bone graft can be placed in the socket to help the body fill the hole left by the tooth root with bone.

Almost any adult in reasonably good health is a candidate for dental implants. We invite you to come see us for all of your dental needs. Good experience with dentistry is based on making the right choice in a family dentist and in taking the right steps to keep dental costs at a minimum through self-care at home between visits. At the office of PAUL D. WHITNEY, D.D.S., we strive to teach good oral hygiene. In the long run you will have better dental health and, of course, spend far fewer dollars. Please call 928.526.4314 to schedule an appointment. We’re located at 5200 E. Cortland Blvd., Suite C-4, where we’re currently accepting new patients. If Time, Quality & Gentle Care are Important to You, We are Here to Serve YOU! Visit us at www.eastflagdentist.com for more information.

P.S. A bone graft may also be recommended for patients who lost teeth many years ago and do not have enough bone left for an implant.

ANTIBIOTICS BEFORE

2010-03-16T13:01:00.002-07:00

Patients with hip prostheses may have heard that it is advisable to take antibiotics prior to undergoing tooth cleaning, scaling, and other procedures to address the potential release of bacteria into the bloodstream caused by these treatments. For people with replacement joints, the concern is that bacteria in the bloodstream (“bacteremia”) could cause an infection by attaching to the artificial joint or surrounding tissues. However, such infections are quite rare. In fact, the American Dental Association recommends against the use of antibiotics prior to dental procedures with the sole intention of preventing infections in artificial joints. Exceptions to this recommendation involve patients who are very susceptible to infection or are having a procedure that carries a higher risk of bacteremia.

We are a caring, friendly team of dental professionals committed to providing a comfortable dental experience. This column has been brought to you by the office of PAUL D. WHITNEY, D.D.S. in the interest of better dental health. We believe in an informed patient approach to achieving optimum dental health.

We’re located at 5200 E. Cortland Blvd., Suite C-4, where we are dedicated to saving and restoring your teeth and helping you look your best. Call 928.526.4314 to schedule an appointment for superior oral health care. Beautiful smiles are a team effort. If Time, Quality & Gentle Care are Important to You, We are Here to Serve YOU! Be sure to visit us on the web at www.eastflagdentist.com.

P.S. Pre-treatment antibiotics may be indicated for immunecompromised patients and those who have inflammatory arthritis, type 1 diabetes, or hemophilia.

A SMILE AS YOUTHFUL AS YOUR FACE

2010-03-16T12:59:00.001-07:00

Interestingly, the American Dental Association notes that teeth were “designed” to last only about 30 years, which means they may need a little help in keeping up appearances. Aside from the usual problems of decay and discoloration, older adults face other potential problems that can undercut the youthfulness of their smiles. For instance, the incisors (or canines) wear down as the years pass, leaving less enamel exposed below the upper lip when a person smiles. Moreover, teeth drift toward the center of the mouth as the bone and tissues that hold them in place weaken with age. As a result, teeth can appear crowded and unevenly distributed. Fortunately, there are cosmetic procedures available that can help restore a smile’s youthfulness.

One of the first things people notice is your smile. If chipped, stained, or crooked teeth are “hiding” the real you, it’s time for a smile make over with the office of PAUL D. WHITNEY, D.D.S. Regular dental examinations are important because problems can generally be detected in the early stages. Please feel free to discuss all of your oral health concerns with us. We stress preventive dentistry and recommend regular dental check-ups for all family members. We’re located at 5200 E. Cortland Blvd., Suite C-4. Come in and see what a difference we can make in your smile – and what a difference your smile can make in your life. We welcome your call at 928.526.4314 to schedule an appointment. If Time, Quality & Gentle Care are Important to You, We are Here to Serve YOU! Be sure to visit us on the web at www.eastflagdentist.com.

P.S. If a lost tooth is not replaced with either an implant or a bridge, adjacent teeth will move to fill the space, disrupting the function and appearance of the remaining teeth.

MEETING DIABETICS’ NEEDS

2010-03-16T12:57:00.001-07:00

Complications associated with diabetes involve the heart, kidneys, and eyes, but there are other potential concerns as well. The dentist can attest to the fact that diabetics are at increased risk for gum disease. This risk rises when blood glucose levels are poorly controlled due to the fact that diabetes can compromise the ability to fight off germs that collect in the mouth. For these reasons, diabetics should make an extra effort to keep their blood glucose levels under control and to brush and floss well and often. If you are diabetic, be sure to draw the dentist’s attention to the fact, and ask the hygienist to show you techniques that will ensure optimum oral health.

Diabetics who receive good dental care and have good insulin control typically have a better chance at avoiding gum disease to help prevent tooth loss. Dentists can be among the first to urge patients to get tested for the chronic disease. At the office of PAUL D. WHITNEY, D.D.S., we feel that dental visits should be positive experiences. Keeping teeth and gums healthy will contribute to overall health and enjoyment of life. We’re located at 5200 E. Cortland Blvd., Suite C-4, where teaching you how to preserve your natural teeth for a lifetime is our primary goal. Please call 928.526.4314 to schedule an appointment. If Time, Quality & Gentle Care are Important to You, We are Here to Serve YOU! Be sure to visit us on the web at www.eastflagdentist.com.

P.S. If you are a diabetic, it makes good sense to schedule a visit to the dentist every six months.

PUTTING UP A GOOD FRONT

2010-03-16T12:52:00.002-07:00

Discolored front teeth that do not lend themselves to tooth-whitening procedures may benefit more from porcelain veneers. After a thin layer of the front of the tooth is removed, fingernail-thin shells overlay the front of the teeth, giving them a new façade. Enamel is removed from the front of the tooth only to the extent that it leaves sufficient room to accept the veneer. Aside from selecting a color for the veneers to match natural tooth color, the dentist and patient may agree to revise the smile by choosing a more suitable tooth shape. Elongated, round, and curvy teeth suggest femininity while square, sharp-edged teeth are more masculine. These factors may come into play with worn or misshapen front teeth.

Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. A beautiful smile creates a youthful appearance, projects confidence, and leaves a lasting impression. At the office of PAUL D. WHITNEY, D.D.S., we can help you regain that smile. Please call us at 928.526.4314 to schedule an appointment. Help is available through cosmetic dentistry. You will feel more confident when you can freely smile whenever you want. We’re located at 5200 E. Cortland Blvd., Suite C-4, where you’ll find that our staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating. We’re confident that you will be pleased with our professionalism and high standards. If Time, Quality & Gentle Care are Important to You, We are Here to Serve YOU!

P.S. Porcelain veneers can be expected to last 10 to 15 years.

Word Of Mouth

2010-03-16T12:48:00.002-07:00

Deep cleaning and other periodontal treatments can largely be avoided if you are careful with your cleaning. One of the ideas of having regular check-ups is to avoid such problems developing.

At the office of PAUL D. WHITNEY, D.D.S., we’ll be more than happy to show you how to clean your teeth properly if you are unsure how to do it. Periodontal disease approaches silently. It may progress painlessly, producing few obvious signs.
We’re located at 5200 E. Cortland Blvd., Suite C-4, where we offer complete dental care for the entire family. Please call 928.526.4314 to schedule an appointment. You can trust your dental health to our experience and knowledge.

We want to keep you smiling. If Time, Quality & Gentle Care are Important to You, We are Here to Serve YOU!

The Consequences of Neglect

2010-03-16T12:46:00.001-07:00

If you have ever wondered what would happen if you neglected to brush and floss your teeth, a study was once undertaken in which a group of dental students were asked to give up oral hygiene for 21 days. At the end of the three weeks, all exhibited signs of plaque, gingivitis, and overt clinical inflammation. Without daily flossing, plaque (a sticky, colorless substance that forms daily on teeth) builds between teeth. In as little as two days, plaque can transform itself into a hard substance, called calculus (also known as tartar), which may only be removed with professional cleaning. Then, it may not be long before periodontal disease begins between teeth, where a toothbrush cannot reach.

Have you had a professional cleaning this year? Most insurance companies allow two cleanings per year. Call us at 928-526-4314 today to schedule your first professional cleaning of 2009. Good oral hygiene is important, not only for looks, but for general health as well. Poor oral hygiene can lead to a variety of dental and medical problems, such as gum disease, infection, bone loss, heart disease, strokes and more. Regular checkups and cleanings can prevent these problems as well as provide you with good oral hygiene. At the office of PAUL D. WHITNEY, D.D.S., you can count on us for family-oriented dental care. We’re located at 5200 E. Cortland Blvd., Suite C-4, where we’re currently accepting new patients. If Time, Quality, & Gentle Care are Important to You, We are Here to Serve YOU!

P.S. Toxins produced by gingival infections can destroy the supporting tissues around the teeth, including bone, which leads to tooth loss.
The consequences of neglect

Oral Indications

2010-03-16T12:43:00.001-07:00

Many people are not aware of the many ways in which oral health is linked with overall health. For instance, according to a survey recently conducted by the Academy of General Dentistry, nearly 60% of those surveyed did not know that a painful jaw is one warning sign that may indicate an impending heart attack. Thus, a visit to the dentist may be a patient’s first sign of an impending dangerous heart event. In fact, research indicates that over 90% of systemic diseases have oral symptoms. With this in mind, careful dental examinations of patients with a history of heart disease (or other conditions) for signs of oral pain, infection, or inflammation is crucial to overall health.

In some cases, the cause of jaw pain is from referred pain that comes from other areas surrounding the jaw. Any dental pain should be investigated since early treatment is almost always a good idea, especially if dental infections are suspected. At the office of PAUL D. WHITNEY, D.D.S., we are dedicated to our patients’ good health and well being and you are more than welcome to join our family of patients. We offer comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry. We’re located at 5200 E. Cortland Blvd., Suite C-4, where our goal is to make each visit to our office a comfortable and positive experience. Please call 928-526-4314 to schedule an appointment. Oral health is a long-term commitment we share with each patient. If Time, Quality, & Gentle Care are Important to You, We are Here to Serve YOU!

P.S. Recent studies also suggest that people who have gum disease are at a higher risk for heart attack.

Navigating the Root Canal

2010-03-16T12:41:00.001-07:00

When the pulp tissue containing a tooth’s nerve and blood vessels is damaged beyond repair, it is necessary to undergo root canal therapy. The first step in this treatment, called a pulpectomy, involves removal of the pulp from the chamber and canal(s). This is accomplished by drilling a small opening through the enamel and dentin, into which small endodontic files can be inserted to clean out the canal(s) that contain the nerve and blood vessels. The canal(s) are then cleaned, shaped, and smoothed. Finally, the canal(s) are filled with a rubbery filling material known as gutta-percha. Root canal therapy, which is conducted with local anesthetic, relieves the pain caused by damage to the inner tooth, it does not cause it.

A tooth’s nerve is not vitally important to a tooth’s health and function after the tooth has emerged through the gums. Its only function is sensory - to provide the sensation of hot or cold. The presence or absence of a nerve will not affect the day-to-day functioning of the tooth. At the office of Paul D. Whitney, D.D.S., we provide the best oral care possible by evaluating your needs individually. We’ll explain our findings and recommendations. Together we’ll choose your best treatment plan. If Time, Quality & Gentle Care are Important to You, We are Here to Serve YOU! We invite you to call us at 928-526-4314 to schedule an appointment. We’re located at 5200 E. Cortland Blvd., Suite C-4.

Eating Your Way to Better Gums

2010-03-16T12:38:00.002-07:00

If you are looking for a dietary approach to gum disease prevention that augments brushing, flossing, and regular professional checkups/cleaning, researchers may have an answer. According to a recent study, people who ate two ounces of yogurt daily nearly halved their risk of advanced gum disease. This is welcome news for a problem that afflicts on e in seven people under the age of 50 and one in three over 50. Advanced gum disease, which begins with gingivitis, or inflammation around the gums, can lead to bone loss and cause pockets to develop between teeth and gums. Yogurt’s lactobacilli bacteria feed on sugar and produce lactic acid, which attacks the disease-causing bacteria. Calcium-rich foods, such as cheese, also boost tooth health.

The interactive experience enhances the high-tech image of the practice and allows clinicians to offer patients a more convenient and comfortable procedure than that of traditional impressions. Is it time for a professional dental checkup? At the office of Paul D. Whitney, D.D.S., we want you to receive the highest quality of complete, affordable dental care. Because looking good and feeling good are important to us all, it is wise to maintain a healthy and attractive smile throughout life. We’re located at 5200 E. Cortland Blvd., Suite C-4, where our aim is to provide individual attention and care to every patient so that we can learn about their special needs. If Time, Quality & Gentle Care are Important to You, We are Here to Serve YOU! Call 928-526-4314 to schedule an appointment.

P.S. Recent research shows that vitamin D works with calcium to counter bone loss and inflammation caused by gum disease.

WHITE TEETH HELP TRIGGER SMILES

2009-04-28T17:32:00.001-07:00

According to recent research, laughter stimulates strong brain activity in listeners, particularly in the areas that control the muscles of the face, and prompts them to smile and laugh back. Simply put, laughter and smiling are contagious.

Of course, no one really needs a scientific study to tell us something that we already know to be true - that a smiling face tends to attract attention and delightful responses. However, the unfortunate fact is that many people are so self-conscious about the condition of their teeth that they deprive themselves of this important asset.

If you are concerned about the whiteness of your smile, professional tooth whitening by the dentist provides the safest and most effective way to brighten your smile.

Have you tried many things without success? Maybe now is the time to give your dentist a chance to whiten and brighten your teeth. At our Flagstaff dentist office, we strive to teach you good oral hygiene. In the long run, you will have better dental health.

Another thing we stress is that general health depends on good dental care. A thorough examination and detailed explanation of all findings and treatments needed are routinely given. We're always happy to discuss improving your smile, and thus, your total feeling of self-esteem.

If Time, Quality & Gentle Care are important to you... We are Here to Serve YOU!

(PS In-office bleaching or laser bleaching gives the quickest tooth-whitening results. At-home bleaching supervised by the dentist provides similar results over a longer stretch of time.)