happy thanksgiving

eat in moderation and don't break any teeth!


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5 heath risks your dentist can detect.

 Call your Carmichael, Sacramento Dentist at 916-332-9240 for a health screening.

When you look in your mouth you may see teeth that need whitening, but a dentist may see signs of heart disease. A study published in the Journal of Dental Research found that many dental problems can be signs of serious health complications. University of Washington School of Dentistry professor Philippe P. Hujoel, DDS, PhD, says the sugar and carbohydrates in food, known as "fermentable carbohydrates," are to blame. Found in sugary drinks, snack foods like potato chips, and simple grains like white bread and corn, these carbs are fermented by bacteria in your mouth, which produces the acids that cause tooth decay. "Those dental diseases are a marker for an unhealthy diet, and an unhealthy diet may predict future health complications," Dr. Hujoel notes.

#1: Obesity
"If a kid has tooth decay and cavities, he probably has high exposure to fermentable carbs," Dr. Hujoel says. "He's really having too many snacks and candy, and this may very well be the kid that ends up obese." For adults, too, an increase in cavities could mean you're eating too many unhealthy foods, which also puts you at risk for obesity. A dentist who knows your medical history may ask about your eating habits, but you should feel free to ask if what's happening to your teeth might be a sign of other problems.

Are You At Risk Of Diabetes?


#2: Cardiovascular disease
The same carbs in snack foods and sugary drinks that get dentists drilling are often found in the company of unhealthy ingredients like trans fatty acids. While trans fats themselves don't cause cavities, they're often used in foods with high amounts of cavity-causing fermentable carbs, and they have been associated with an increase in cardiovascular disease. Whenever you can, replace processed, packaged food with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. For those sweet treats you can't give up, check the labels to make sure they're trans fat free.

It's also possible for cavities themselves to threaten your heart, if the bacteria that produce them find their way into your cardiovascular system. Bacteria associated with tooth and gum disease may also be involved in stroke, diabetes, and respiratory problems—so brush and floss every day.

5 Excuses That Kill Your Heart


#3: Diabetes
The fermentable carbohydrates in sugary drinks and snacks loaded with carbs increase your blood sugar level drastically, raising the risk of type 2 diabetes, Dr. Hujoel says. Which is one more reason to switch to a diet that produces fewer cavities. "Lifelong usage of high fermentable carbohydrates first leads to dental disease, and then, long-term, leads to other health outcomes," Dr. Hujoel adds.


#4: Cancer
Not only does a tooth-unhealthy diet put you at risk for obesity, which is a risk factor for certain cancers, harmful lifestyle habits like smoking can produce tooth discoloration and periodontal destruction. Abnormalities in your mouth, including bleeding gums and cavities, should be a natural alarm bell, Dr. Hujoel says. So always ask your dentist if your tooth problems could point toward a wider problem.

Four Eating Strategies that Prevent Cancer


#5: Alzheimer's disease
In a study just published in The Journal of the American Dental Association, people who lost most of their teeth were more likely to develop dementia problems, such as Alzheimer's disease, later on. It will take more research to clarify what the connection between tooth loss and brain health may be. But is seems that keeping your teeth as healthy possible has benefits that go far beyond your mouth.

Teeth in a day. All on 4 implant procedure

Teeth-in-a-Day

This innovative restoration allows people with dentures or missing teeth to get natural-looking replacement teeth in just one visit. You may have seen news stories or ads about Teeth-in-a-Day or Teeth-in-an-Hour, and thought they sounded too good to be true. Both names describe an accelerated surgical and restorative protocol, and here is how they came about.
The original protocol for dental implants required placing the implants and allowing them to bond to the bone (a process called osseointegration) for six months before restorations were attached. The reason for this technique is that implants must initially remain stable and immobile. They will fail if allowed to move before osseointegration is complete.
During that six-month period, patients usually wore dentures or other types of removable appliances. Because this approach was almost 100 percent successful, practitioners were reluctant to alter the protocol. But patients wanted faster results, and further research showed that if implants were placed in very solid bone or if multiple implants were splinted together, they would remain stable enough to allow osseointegration with nearly the same success rate.
Extensive planning is required for Teeth-in-a-Day, and approaches vary for every patient. i-CAT CT scanning and 3-D imaging allow precision planning, ensuring that implants are placed in exact locations and in areas of dense bone. Provisional restorations are fabricated before the surgical appointment. Then, in a single appointment, old dentures or failing teeth are removed, and several implants are placed evenly around the jaw. Next, a complete arch of non-removable temporary teeth are attached to the implants. This provisional restoration will remain until osseointegration is complete. With this technique, implants remain stable because they are splinted together, and patients are thrilled that they can avoid a removable denture. Permanent restorations are placed once the bone has bonded to the implants. Teeth-in-a-Day can also be used for single implants when a CT scan shows that the bone is very dense.
This procedure gives you a new set of teeth that cannot slip or fall, and allows you the freedom to eat, speak and smile with confidence. Results are immediate, so you don’t have to worry about taking time off work or “laying low” while your restorations are being made. Dr Newens have mastered this procedure and can give hope to denture wearers who want a strong, healthy and beautiful smile all in one visit.

How to get discounted, free dental care in Sacramento, Ca.

How to get discounted, free dental services.
Access to discounted or free dental care is a monumental problem in the United States.  More than 50% of the population do not have dental insurance and state agencies have limited benefits to children.  Therefore, if one has a broken tooth or needs a tooth repair, dental treatment can end up costing thousands of dollars!
In Sacramento, CA., one can get free cleanings, and screenings at the local hygiene school and discounted dentistry at several county agencies. Some dentists do pro bono work as well.
To find out more information, email or call us.
www.drnewens.com

How can I get dental work with no dental insurance?

There are some options for getting dental work done even if you don’t have dental insurance. Indeed, you may be surprised to learn that your health insurance doesn’t cover dental work.
Get instant dental insurance quotes by entering your zip code into the free rate box now!
Many health insurance providers consider dental insurance an entirely different channel of coverage. Popular dental insurance policies include DHMO (Dental Health Maintenance Organization), Indemnity or Individual Dental Insurance, and PPO (Preferred Provider Organization). Below is information on dental insurance, alternative financing, and determining what is best for you.

Why Dental Insurance is Different from Health Insurance

If you do not have dental insurance, what can you expect from a dentist’s office? First, understand that having dental insurance immediately elevates you in the dentist’s opinion. He or she knows that if you have insurance he will get a percentage of the cost upfront. Having dental insurance shows that you are responsible and trustworthy. It is preferable to have some sort of dental insurance if you want full options.
That said, dental insurance is not as critical for most people as health insurance. A simple operation or a series of diagnostic tests can easily cost you thousands of dollars. On the other hand, dentistry may cost between $200 and $2,000—significantly less than a hospital visit. Unlike physicians, dentists aggressively compete with one another and this affects their entire pay scale. Dentists charge fees directly to the patient, and since they are usually within a $5,000 range, many patients can afford to pay cash, check or credit card.
Because many patients actually prefer paying out of pocket, dental insurance is viewed as a luxury and not a necessity by some practices. Nevertheless, there are still some dental offices that only work with insured patients. It is up to the discretion of the dentist. Naturally, if he or she has had problems with patients not paying the billed amount, he or she would be less inclined to work with uninsured patients.

Why Financing Doesn’t Always Work

What if you don’t have a credit card or a large bank account for these dental expenses? Some dentists offer financing options, especially for procedures that cost in the thousands. Just ask about a payment plan and most providers will work with you. This is especially true if you’ve been with the practice for years.
Of course, dentist offices are not banks. They have no way of accessing credit history, and they are not qualified legal tenders. Although a some offer emergency financing, by in large, it’s not profitable. If patients cannot pay the bill immediately, then financing a large loan will add on interest, and this in turn causes financial hardship. This unfavorable scenario may also lead to unfinished treatment or dental work that never ends and keeps adding to an increasing balance. In the end, the dentist is providing free work to patients who can’t afford it. It’s not fair to anyone.
A better option might be make arrangements to finance a dental loan through a bank or another short-term lender. In this situation, the dentist gets his or her money upfront while you pay according to a comfortable schedule. Ideally though, the best option is to pay for your bill in full right after a visit. You usually pay on each visit, even if you are asked to come back for more treatment.

Shop Around for Dentists and Insurance

Shopping around for a dentist who will work with your financial needs just makes sense. You will find competing rates and offices willing to offer payment plans for larger services. The same goes for the search for dental insurance. The informed buyer knows what his options are before making a choice.
Enter your zip code to compare insurance quotes now!

How Much Coverage is Enough?

Dental insurance can offer benefits, on average, of up to $1,000 a year. Depending on how well you care for your oral health, this average benefit may be enough for you, or you may need supplemental dental insurance. For some people, the average benefit complements their out of pocket expenses. Some dental plans also go much higher than $1,000 a year, though you can expect to pay more in premiums.
The easy answer is yes, you can get dental work without dental insurance. However, if you cannot easily afford to pay out of pocket expenses, than it may be beneficial to look for a dental insurance policy. Remember, some procedures are simple.
Still, the prices can be limiting depending on your budget. Here are some general estimates of what things cost without insurance:
• Tooth extraction $300
• Root canal can cost upwards of $1,000
• Tooth implants or braces $3000-$8000
Don’t conclude that you can afford to pay out of pocket. Ultimately, the cost of dental work will depend on the quality of your teeth and gums. The more work you require, the more you likely you will need a dental insurance plan. It is best to apply for such insurance when you are young and in good health.
Goto www.drnewens.com for more information.

6 Signs You Need a New Dentist

http://health.yahoo.net/articles/oral-care/photos/6-signs-you-need-new-dentist#0

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Teeth whitening SAFE and FAST

The Truth About Healthy Teeth: Your Guide to at-Home Dental Care

This content is selected and controlled by WebMD's editorial staff and is brought to you by Oral-B Manual.

Next Article:

• 5 Causes of Tooth Plaque Do you have one of these 5 bad habits that lead to tooth plaque?

Teeth Whitening Safety Tips

WebMD Medical Reference

By Kathleen Doheny

Reviewed By Brunilda Nazario, MD

Dazzling smiles seem to be within everyone's reach, thanks to the booming teeth whitening business. From over-the-counter whitening strips to dentist office professional treatments, there seems to be no reason to put up with stained or darkening teeth.
Side effects aren't common when these products are used as directed, but can occur. Before you embark on a do-it-yourself whitening regimen, here are some teeth whitening safety tips to keep your mouth and gums healthy.

See Your Dentist First

Get a professional cleaning and mouth exam, even if you decide to whiten your teeth at home using over-the-counter strips or gels. It could be that all you need is a thorough cleaning to restore your teeth's sparkling good looks.
The exam can also detect any cavities. Getting the cavity treated first is crucial to keep teeth whitening safe.
Your dentist will assess the health of your gums. If they are inflamed, it’s wise to postpone the whitening.
Ask your dentist for advice about which over-the-counter system to use. Ask your dentist how much lightening you might expect. Teeth do darken with age, and the range of color varies from person to person.

Shop Wisely for Teeth Whitening Products

At-home teeth whitening products contain peroxides, typically carbamide peroxide, in various concentrations -- often 10% to 20% or so.
Choose a product with a mid-range bleaching agent -- not the lowest concentration and not the highest.  If you tolerate it well but aren't getting the lightening effect you want, you can choose a higher concentration.
Some home teeth whitening products have the ADA Seal of Acceptance.

Follow Directions to the Letter

Leaving the strips or gels on longer than advised can irritate the gums. More isn't better and could lead to problems.
For instance, many over-the-counter teeth whitening strips suggest using for 30 minutes a day for about two weeks. Using longer can increase the risk of gum inflammations and later problems.
After the teeth whitening session, avoid acidic beverages such as soda or sports drinks for a couple of hours to protect your teeth.

Be Realistic

To be on the safe side, pregnant women or nursing mothers should postpone teeth whitening.
Crowns won't whiten, as products caution. So if you have crowns that show when you smile, teeth whitening might produce an uneven appearance of color.

Be on the Lookout for Sensitive Teeth

Mild and temporary tooth sensitivity can occur with many teeth whitening products. If inflammation or sensitivity are bothersome, discontinue the treatment and speak with your dentist.
If the trays don't fit well, they can irritate the gums. If you notice that effect, it's also wise to stop the teeth whitening product.
If your teeth and gums are in good shape, sensitivity is less likely to be an issue.

Don't Become a Whitening Addict

With the affordability and variety of do-it-yourself teeth whitening products, some consumers think more is better.
How much is too much? After following the directions for whitening, and getting a good result, a once a month preventive or touch up session is usually enough.
When your teeth reach a realistic shade, you only need to repeat the multiple bleaching sessions about twice a year or less.
for more info: contact drnewens.com

How to choose a good dentist

 

Five tips for choosing a dentist in Sacramento and Carmichael, CA.

1. Know your dental health benefits. Your choice of dentist could be determined by your dental health plan. Dental HMOs, for example, limit your choice of dentist to a member of the HMO network. If you have a PPO plan, visiting a network dentist can make a difference in your copayment levels. (If you have a Delta Dental plan, see the sidebar for more details.)
2. Ask others for recommendations. Ask family, friends, neighbors or coworkers what they like about their dentist, or ask your physician for a referral. You also may wish to ask for a list of local dentists who are members of professional associations, such as the American Dental Association (ADA), Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) or a local dental society such as the California Dental Association.
3. Factor in accessibility. Do you prefer a dentist location near your workplace or your home? How flexible can you be when it comes to scheduling appointments? How important is it for your dentist to have office hours on Saturdays? You will want to convey this information to a prospective dentist and dentist office staff.
4. Meet for a consultation. When you have a list of prospective dentists, call or visit several before making an appointment. Ask if he or she a member of organized dentistry (such as ADA or AGD), and find out which dental procedures are completed in-office and which are referred out. Also, ask how far in advance you need to schedule regular checkups or cleanings.
5. Evaluate the dentist after an appointment. During your initial visit, check the office to make sure it’s clean, neat and orderly. How courteous are staff members? Do they handle your private medical and dental history with care? How child-friendly is the office?

After you leave, consider these questions: Were the office location and hours convenient? Would you feel comfortable asking this dentist questions? Would you trust his or her recommendations or referrals?
Goto www.drnewens.com for more info.