Healthy Eating Prevents Tooth Decay

By Michael Vold, D.D.S., J.D..

Did you know that a healthy diet can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease? According to the American Dental Association (ADA), what you eat and drink can determine how often cavities occur and how they progress.

It is generally believed that a balanced, healthy diet consists of:
Fruits and vegetables
Grains
Dairy
Protein

The United States Department of Agriculture’s Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion (CNPP) recommends eating lean proteins and low-fat or fat-free dairy products. The CNPP further suggests that half the grains you eat should be whole grains, and that fruits and vegetables should cover half your plate at meal time. CNPP dietary advices are based on scientific research with the goal of improving the health and well-being of Americans.

Fruits and vegetables have a high concentration of water and fiber. They help stimulate the production of saliva, which washes away harmful acids and food particles in the mouth. Firm and crunchy fruits and vegetables are especially beneficial due to their high water content. Fruits and vegetables also contain vitamin C and vitamin A. Vitamin C helps with wound healing and maintaining healthy gums. Vitamin A is an important nutrient in building tooth enamel.

Foods rich in calcium, phosphorous and other nutrients are good for tooth and gum health as well. Calcium and phosphorus in particular help protect and rebuild tooth enamel. It is believed that both nutrients replace the minerals on tooth enamel that are naturally removed by acids.

Calcium is found in cheese, milk, yogurt, leafy greens, seaweeds like kelp, beans, figs and nuts such as almonds, hazelnuts, sesame and pistachios. In addition to supporting good oral health, calcium also builds strong bones, regulates muscle contraction, plays a role in blood coagulation, and helps with communication between the brain and other parts of the body.

Phosphorus comes from protein-rich foods such as meat, poultry, fish and eggs, along with bran, pumpkin, squash, watermelon seeds, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, toasted wheat germ, Brazil and pine nuts. It works in conjunction with calcium to build and maintain healthy bones as well as teeth, and helps the body absorb vitamin B.
Other food related-factors that an influence can influence oral health include:
Whether the food is a liquid, solid, sticky or slow to dissolve
How often sugary and acidic foods and beverages are consumed
The combination of foods eaten
The order in which foods are eaten

Limiting the sugar in your diet plays a key role in preventing tooth decay and maintaining good oral health. Bacteria in the mouth feed off of the sugars contained in food, and release acids that are harmful to your teeth. Sweets and snack foods not only contain large amounts of sugar, they have virtually no nutritional value. This includes sugar-laden drinks like soda, lemonade, and sweetened coffee or tea. Sipping heavily sugared products results in a sugar bath over the teeth that can result in tooth decay.

The potential for cavities, gum disease and tooth loss can also be increased due to medical conditions such as acid reflux and eating disorders.

Maintaining a balanced diet is not only necessary for your overall health, it’s one of the easiest ways to prevent cavities, gum disease and avoid the cost of cosmetic dentistry and dental oral surgery.

For more information about Northbrook dental care, visit the Northbrook Court Dental website at http://www.northbrookcourtdental.com, or call the office today at 847-272-2900.

About

Dr. Michael Vold has a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin (1963), a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Northwestern University Dental School (1967) and a Juris Doctor degree from DePaul University College of Law (1980). He served as a dentist in the U.S. Air Force and taught as an Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois, College of Dentistry. Dr. Vold is a member of the American Dental Association and Illinois State Dental Society, as well as a recipient of numerous professional honors and awards.

Northbrook Court Dental Now Offers Porcelain Veneers

Northbrook, Illinois – Northbrook Court Dental Associates (http://www.northbrookcourtdental.com) announced that it now offers porcelain veneers to improve the appearance of teeth.

“Our goal with cosmetic dentistry is to enable patients to have the smile they’ve always wanted,” says Dr. Michael Vold, D.D.S. “Porcelain veneers are one of the easiest ways for patients to correct teeth with poor color or shape.”

Cosmetic dentistry is a specialized area of dental care that focuses on improving the appearance of a person’s teeth, gums and bite. Over the years, porcelain veneers has become one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures,both at the Northbrook dental clinic and in genral.

A porcelain veneer is a custom-made thin layer of material that is generally bonded to the tooth with resin cement. Porcelain veneers can be used to correct teeth that are chipped, broken, discolored and worn down, as well as uneven or irregularly shaped. Veneers are also used to cover large spaces between teeth, and teeth that have not responded well to tooth whitening or bleaching.

Veneers, which can last from 10 to 30 years, can be placed on one or more teeth. The procedure involves an initial consultation that includes an examination, evaluation and the development of a treatment plan. In some cases, x-rays may also be taken. The tooth is prepared for the veneer by removing a tiny amount of enamel from the tooth’s surface. An impression of the tooth is then taken and sent to a laboratory where the veneer is created.

Veneers are adhered to teeth using a light sensitive resin, which is placed between the veneer and the tooth. A special curing light is then used to harden the resin.

“It’s almost impossible to tell the different between veneers and regular teeth,” says Dr. Vold. “They are also very easy to maintain.”

For more information about cosmetic dentistry, visit the Northbrook Court Dental website at http://www.northbrookcourtdental.com, or call the office today at 847-272-2900.

About

Dr. Michael Vold has a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin (1963), a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Northwestern University Dental School (1967) and a Juris Doctor degree from DePaul University College of Law (1980). He served as a dentist in the U.S. Air Force and taught as an Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois, College of Dentistry. Dr. Vold is a member of the American Dental Association and Illinois State Dental Society, as well as a recipient of numerous professional honors and awards.

Northbrook Court Dental Associates Earns Better Business Bureau Accreditation

Northbrook, Illinois - Becoming an Accredited Business with the Better Business Bureau is an honor not accorded to all businesses; because not all businesses meet eligibility standards. Northbook Court Dental Associates (http://www.northbrookcourtdental.com) is pleased to announce today that it has met all BBB standards and is now an Accredited Business.

“Accreditation in the BBB is by invitation only” says Steve J. Bernas, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois. “And only those businesses that meet our high standards and pass the review process are approved by our Board of Directors.”

As with all businesses that are accredited by the BBB, Northbook Court Dental Associates has committed to the BBB Code of Business Practices. The Code is a comprehensive set of policies, procedures and best practices on how business treat consumers. These standards call for building trust, embodying integrity, advertising honestly and being truthful. Bernas adds “To maintain their Accreditation a business must be transparent, honor their promises, be responsive to their customers and safeguard their privacy.”

“We are proud to be a BBB Accredited Business,” said Dr. Michael Vold, President of Northbook Court Dental Associates. “In today’s world it is imperative that our patients know how seriously we take our commitment to excellence and good customer service. Our achieving BBB Accreditation exemplifies that goal.”

Northbook Court Dental Associates, a two decades old dental practice, has been offering dental patients oral health services of the highest standards. “Our desire is to stay focused on what we do best; provide outstanding dental treatment and unsurpassed customer service,” said Dr. Vold.

For more information contact: Northbook Court Dental Associates at 847-272-2900.

Diagnosing and Treating TMD/TMJ

by Michael Vold, DDS, JD

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) is a physical condition caused by the deterioration of your jaw joints. It is also known as TMJ, which is an abbreviation for temporomandibular joint.

There are two temporomandibular joints, one on each side of the face. The temporomandibular name comes from the two bones that create the joint, the temporal bone and the mandible. The temporal bone is part of your skull, and the mandible is your lower jaw bone. A small disc made of cartilage is positioned between the bones to form the joint.

TMD is often painful and can result in congested ears, ringing in the ears, facial swelling, headaches and breathing problems; as well as back, neck and shoulder pain. TMD can also make it difficult to chew, cause odd clicking or popping sounds when the jaw joint is opened or closed, and result in hearing loss. The discomfort can last for short or long periods of time. Both the jaw bone and surrounding areas are usually affected by the disorder, such as muscles, tissues, blood vessels and tendons.

TMD is frequently caused by the misalignment of teeth. This misalignment can occur due to stress, auto accidents, arthritis and many other ailments that affect body joints in general. If the disorder isn’t corrected, the jaw bone will continue to erode and your teeth will begin to loosen. TMD can also lead to tooth loss.

Many times TMD can be successfully treated by a dentist. First, a thorough examination is conducted to determine the reason for the problems you are having. Any areas of pain will be looked at, and your bite will be studied. Muscle and jaw functionality will be evaluated, along with any difficulties you are having opening and closing your mouth. X-rays may be necessary to get a full and detailed view of your jaw joints and teeth.

Sometimes symptoms similar to TMD are caused by gum disease, tooth decay and other health issues. A knowledgeable dentist will be able to diagnose the real source of your pain and discomfort.

In cases involving TMD, various methods can be used to manage the disorder, including orthodontics, bite adjustments, crowns, implant teeth, and bite appliances. Other remedies include heat and cold packs, mild medication to reduce pain and relax the muscles, physical therapy and changes in behavior.

A conservative approach to TMD can be taken, working with patients to correct any habits that may be contributing to the disorder and apply a gradient scale of remedies to resolve the situation, including dietary changes such as eating softer foods. Sometimes several different types of treatment are conducted at the same time. It doesn’t necessarily require oral dental surgery to correct it.

It has been reported that 25% of the population has some type of jaw malfunction. If you are experiencing any type of jaw problem, seek advice from a dentist with TMD training and experience. There is software called Bite FX which demonstrates and explains about TMD. Proper evaluation and treatment can restore your health and prevent future tooth loss.

Northbrook Court Dental Provides Treatment Program for TMD

Northbrook, Illinois - Northbrook Court Dental Associates (http://www.northbrookcourtdental.com) announced a treatment program for temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD), also known as TMJ. The painful physical condition is caused by deteriorating jaw joints and can lead to tooth loss if not corrected.

“We have successfully treated many cases of TMD with a conservative approach that focuses on identifying and eliminating the source of the problem. and we have software called Bite FX that helps to explain and demonstrate the problem,” says Dr. Michael Vold, D.D.S., Northbrook dentist and founder of Northbrook Court Dental Associates. Dr. Vold has undergone extensive TMD training and education, and is highly skilled in diagnosing and treating TMD cases.

TMD is typically caused by the misalignment of teeth, which can result from various health issues such as arthritis, as well as auto accidents and stress-related tooth grinding. The condition affects the jaw bone as well as nearby muscles, tendons, ligaments and tissues.

Symptoms of TMD/TMJ include headaches, ringing in the ears, breathing difficulties and facial swelling, as well as neck, shoulder and head pain.

Northbrook Court Dental Associates’ TMD treatment program begins with a thorough examination of the patient’s jaw bone and any areas where the patient is experiencing pain or discomfort. Jaw movement is closely analyzed to determine the source of the problem.

Methods used by the clinic to correct TMD include bit adjustments, orthodontics, bite appliances and crowns. Patients are also given instructions for at-home care that can involve changes in diet and the use of hot and cold packs to reduce swelling.

“Our staff works closely with patients suffering from TMD to ensure the underlying cause of the condition is thoroughly addressed,” says Dr. Vold. For more information on Northbrook Court Dental Associates’ TMD/TMJ treatment program, visit the Northbrook dental clinic’s website or call the office today at 847-272-2900.

About

Dr. Michael Vold has a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin (1963), a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Northwestern University Dental School (1967) and a Juris Doctor degree from DePaul University College of Law (1980). He served as a dentist in the U.S. Air Force and taught as an Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois, College of Dentistry. Dr. Vold is a member of the American Dental Association and Illinois State Dental Society, as well as a recipient of numerous professional honors and awards.

Preventing Tooth Decay With Sealants

by Michael Vold, DDS, JD

Despite the many proactive measures that can be taken to prevent tooth decay, a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows cavities in children between the ages of two and five increasing 15.2% from 1988-1994 to 1999-2002. It has also been reported that approximately 20% of U.S. children and teens have untreated cavities.

According to a recent article in the New York Times, not only is tooth decay in young children on the rise, more preschoolers are showing up at dental offices with cavities needing extensive dental procedures, including dental surgery requiring anesthesia. Some dental offices have reported children as young as 2 with six to ten cavities at a time.

Maintaining good oral health at every stage of life is vital. Taking care of your teeth not only prevents future tooth loss, it reduces the risk of many other diseases, such as periodontitis, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and even osteoporosis or to have to implant teeth. Learning more about cosmetic dentistry, you can know the different solutions available to fix dental problems.

Healthy eating is one way to minimize the possibility of cavities. Avoid foods that contain sugar as much as possible. Regular brushing and flossing is also important when it comes to oral health and whitening of teeth. Another effective way children and teens can protect their teeth from decay is with dental sealants.

Sealants have had American Dental Association (ADA) approval for over 35 years. Made of tooth-colored acrylic, they fill a tooth’s pits and grooves with a protective covering. Dental sealants prevent tooth decay by shielding teeth from the mouth bacteria, acids and sugars that come from food particles.

Dental sealants are generally applied to permanent molars, which start growing when a child is around six years of age. Permanent molars continue to push through the gums until a child is 12 or 13 years of age. These back teeth are often the hardest to reach and keep clean, even with regular brushing. The sealant is applied to the chewing portion of the molar, where decay and cavities are most likely to occur.

Sealants have also been used on baby teeth when necessary, and for pits and grooves in adult teeth.

The procedure for applying dental sealants is simple and easy. First, the teeth are thoroughly cleaned using a rotating brush and paste. Depending on the type of sealant that is used, an acidic liquid may need to be applied to the teeth to prepare them for the sealant. Once the solution has dried, it is washed off. Next, the dental sealant is painted onto to the teeth, filling any crevices, pits and grooves. As the sealant dries, it hardens, forming a protective coating over the teeth.

Sometimes a light is used to speed up the drying process. The entire procedure takes only a few minutes and is completely painless.

Types of dental sealants include resin, Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC) and fluoride-containing sealants.

Sealants can last from five to ten years. They are also easily replaced if they become worn or chipped. If you have young children and are concerned about tooth decay and cavities, ask your dentist about dental sealants, one of the best ways of insuring your child’s oral health.

Northbrook Court Dental Recommends Dental Sealants for Children

Northbrook, Illinois – Northbrook Court Dental Associates (http://www.northbrookcourtdental.com) says children and teens can protect their teeth from decay and cavities by using dental sealants. The fluoride-releasing sealants prevent tooth erosion caused by the sugars, acids and bacteria from food particles.

“Children can be extremely susceptible to tooth decay, especially when they eat sweets on a regular basis,” says Dr. Michael Vold, founder of Northbrook Court Dental Associates. “Dental sealants are an easy and effective way of prevent decay and related tooth problems.”

Dental sealants are applied in a thin coat to the chewing surfaces of a child’s new molars after they have broken through the gums. The sealant fills in the tooth’s pits and groves. These “fissures” can be extremely deep, and are often the most difficult area of the mouth to keep clean, even with regular brushing and flossing.

The short and simple procedure begins by cleaning the tooth with paste and a rotating brush. The tooth is then covered with an acidic solution. After the gel has dried, it is washed off. The sealant is then painted onto the tooth, where it quickly dries and hardens. Sometimes a light is used to speed up the drying process. The entire procedure takes approximately one to two minutes per tooth.

Dental sealants are made of tooth-colored acrylic, which makes them virtually unnoticeable, even when the child is talking, laughing or smiling. Although sealants can last for up to ten years, the protective covering should be checked periodically by a dentist.

Sealants can also be used on baby teeth with deep crevices, and to fill in pits or grooves on teeth in other parts of the mouth.

For more information on dental sealants for children and teens, visit the Northbrook Court Dental Associates website at http://www.northbrookcourtdental.com, or call the office today at 847-272-2900.

About

Dr. Michael Vold has a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin (1963), a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Northwestern University Dental School (1967) and a Juris Doctor degree from DePaul University College of Law (1980). He served as a dentist in the U.S. Air Force and taught as an Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois, College of Dentistry. Dr. Vold is a member of the American Dental Association and Illinois State Dental Society, as well as a recipient of numerous professional honors and awards.