The Long Awaited For Owner's manual For The Mouth

The book is literally an owner’s manual for the mouth, with answers to such questions as “How do you get cavities?’; why do my gums bleed? Is teeth whitening safe?; what should I know before I pierce my tongue?  Are invisible braces for me? How do I save money and still have a healthy mouth?  What is the connection between gum disease and heart attacks? What’s the connection between sleep apnea, snoring and ADHD in children?

Dr. Parkin has seen literally tens of thousands of patients with all types of dental problems, dental questions and concerns. As he worked to solve  problems for them, he observed that patients were often not succeeding in gaining and maintaining good oral health care.  Their home care was failing them, causing them to have minor to major dental problems.  This ran the gamut from gingivitis (puffy gums that bleed easily when brushed or flossed) to complete toothlessness.  They experienced pain, embarrassment and inconvenience.  He realized that whatever they were doing wasn’t working for them.  They didn’t set out to have toothaches and end up toothless, having to glue their false teeth in their mouth every day. But it happened and continues to happen to tens of millions of Americans and more are joining this unfortunate group every day. They are losing the “battle to keep their teeth for a lifetime” and they didn’t need to be losers!

He saw the ever increasing need for dental care as new patients entered his dental practice.  The increasing cost of dental care combined with the decreasing value of dental insurance made it difficult to impossible for many patients to have healthy, attractive mouths.  The connection between general health and dental health has been known for years now, with more new research results being added on a monthly basis.  This was the motivation to write this ‘owner’s manual ‘ for the mouth.  He feels that knowledge put into action is power.  This book gives the knowledge and action steps necessary to save on future large dental bills, while adding years of good health to ones life.

Click here for more information

     Recently, I was reading one such journal, RDH magazine, and came across an article that caught my attention called A Top 10 List For Water Flossing, written by Carol Jahn, RDH,MS.  I couldn’t agree more.       

The Water Flosser…
10.  Reduces gum infection(periodontal disease)
        The water pressure pulsations of the Water Flosser remove  bacteria from deep under the gums(pockets).  Compared to toothbrushing and mouth rinses, only the Water Flosser reduced harmful bacteria under the gums.
9.  Reduces inflammation
     Studies show patients who use the Water Flosser daily reduce bleeding gums and gingivitis(swollen, infected gums), a sign of early periodontal disease, more than patients who don’t water floss.
8.  Helps patients with diabetes
     Since patients with diabetes are at a high risk for gum disease, reducing harmful bacteria and inflammation by water flossing is an added benefit.
7.  Safe for implants
     Water Flossing reduces plaque, bleeding, and inflammation necessary for long-term implant success.
6.  Helps clean around braces
     Keeping teeth clean when patients have braces is a challenge.  It is much more difficult to remove food particles with just toothbrushing, and most patients will not use string floss since it is an additional challenge to get the floss under the wires.  Water flossing easily removes plaque and food particles hiding around braces.
5.  Reaches deeper under the gums than string floss
     String floss reaches about 3 to 4 mm under the gumline while water flossing reaches much further in deep under the gum pockets benefiting those who have periodontal disease.
4.  Removes plaque
     Water flossing results in high plaque reduction compared to brushing alone.
3.  Easy to use
     For many patients, using the Water Flosser is easier than using string floss.  Getting string floss between the back teeth can be difficult for those with large fingers, small mouths, or weak manual dexterity.
2.  Alternative to string floss
     Studies show water flossing can be up to 93% more effective than string floss at reducing gum inflammation(gingivitis).
1.  Based on evidence
     The Water Flosser, commonly called the waterpik, was introduced in 1962.  More than 20 clinical trials have shown its effectiveness.  The American Academy of Periodontology reviewed the Water Flosser, noting the greatest benefit “is seen in patients who perform inadequate interproximal cleansing,” meaning inadequate between teeth cleaning.

     An added benefit is the ease of use in cleaning around bridges and crowns.

This summary should help you understand more about the benefits of using the Water Flosser and why your dental hygienist may recommend it to you.  For your convenience, we have the Water Flosser available for purchase.

Susan Divine, RDH

Woman and Man showing their beautiful smiles after power whitening was done.

You wont be able to stop smiling after whitening is done

Power whitening is an in-office procedure that is the most cost-effective and safest technique available.  We start by polishing your teeth to help remove surface stains.  Then we place a protective barrier on your gums followed by a gel on your teeth designed to help prevent sensitivity.  A whitener is then applied to your teeth.  After a 15-minute cycle, the whitener is removed and fresh whitener is applied.  Normally three cycles are needed to achieve desired results.

Q: How long does power whitening take?
A: Expect about 1 1/2 hours to complete the process.

Q: How long does the whitening last?
A: Darkening may recur within 1 – 3 years, but not back to the original stained color.  For this reason, we have developed a unique program called, “Whiter Teeth for Life Club” designed to help you maintain brighter teeth.

What a difference this treatment of power whitening has done!

Q: Will it harm my teeth?
A: No, not if whitening is done in-office or if it is dispensed by a dental professional for at home use.

Q: What does the whitening process do to my teeth?
A: 35% hydrogen peroxide soaks into the pores of the enamel and removes stains that have soaked into the teeth as well as stains on the surface of the teeth.

Before and after results that are stunning

Q: How white will my teeth get?
A: Depending on the type of stain, you may achieve up to 10 shades of color change in one treatment.  Very few people require additional whitening.  Some stains caused by tetracycline antibiotics that occur in the developmental stage of teeth formation require additional whitening or an at home tray system used over several weeks.  This type of staining has a grayish appearance near the gumline and can be diagnosed by your dental professional.  

Q: Are there any reasons why I should not whiten my teeth?
A: Yes.  Tooth colored fillings, crowns, bridges and veneers will not change color.  If you have many restored teeth that show when you smile, they may appear darker than the surrounding teeth that have been whitened.  However, if these fillings need replacement – now is the time to whiten your teeth so that the new fillings can be matched to the color of your whitened teeth.  If your fillings happen to be lighter than the surrounding teeth,  we can often lighten the teeth to match closely to the fillings.

Always remember that if you want matain your teeth after whitening, whitening toothpaste will take care of that.

Q: Are there any side affects?
A: Some people may experience tooth sensitivity lasting a day or two.  A toothpaste designed for sensitivity may help as well as a fluoride application.

Q: Do whitening toothpastes actually whiten teeth?
A: No.  Whitening toothpastes are designed to help maintain whiteness after teeth have been professionally whitened.  They are intended for stains on the outside surface of teeth.  They have not been able to duplicate professional stain removal from within the teeth.  Some of these toothpastes have a small amount of peroxide to help maintain whiter teeth after the whitening process but others have abrasives which can harm the enamel.

Q: How much does power whitening cost?
A: The whitening process fee is only $214, much less than the typical fee of $400-$500 at most dental offeces.  Our “Whiter Teeth fo Life Club” maintenance program is only $39 to help you maintain bright teeth after power whitening.

Whiter teeth for life club, Join now and love your smile forever!

Dazzle your smile.  Call Rhonda to reserve an appointment today.

Susan Divine, RDH

A great article explaining mini dental implants. See some of our patient’s testimonies at the end – Dr. Parkin

If you are thinking about opting for a dental implant in one of the coming days, allow me to introduce you to mini dental implants. These newer implants have taken the implant market by storm. Ever since implants were commercialized in 1980s, many people have  realized the advantages associated with them. Some readers of this article might have already be aware of the  new paradigm which is the mini dental implant, and they would like to enhance their knowledge on the subject. Regardless of the reasons you are reading this brief article, it is imperative that you must have a good understanding of the procedure before you decide to have minis placed in your jaw. Before I start discussing in depth about these implants, allow me to discuss conventional dental implants. Titanium alloy implants are man-made root replacements that are surgically inserted into either the upper or lower jaw. The dental implant acts as a root, which can hold an artificial replacement tooth. Implants come in various sizes and traditional implants involve multiple surgical stages and often require months of waiting while the implant integrates with the bone. The traditional implants come in pieces that have to be connected in order for them to be useful. So, why do people opt for mini dental-implants instead of the conventional dental implants? The reasoning is simple – far less invasive surgery and far less cost as compared to the conventional implant systems. Also they most often can be used immediately to support a denture or missing tooth. No waiting for months for them to integrate with the bone. They are threaded into place and hold fast from the beginning.

Since the mini implants are single unit narrow versions of the conventional systems, the costs associated with implanting and maintaining them is drastically lowered. Researchers estimate that by opting for mini dental implants, you will be able to save approximately one half the cost of traditional implants. The cost of a conventional implant system might be anywhere in between $2,500 to $3000. Like the traditional implants, the mini dental-implant is manufactured from titanium, a material that is compatible with and accepted by the body. A tiny round opening is placed in the gum where the implant is to be threaded; yes threaded just like placing a small screw into wood, the implant is threaded into position ready to support a crown or to stabilize a denture immediately. We often call this technique “denture stabilization” . The ease with which these implants can be placed in the mouth is another factor that prompted the popularity of this technology.  To stabilize a lower denture we insert 4 implants. To stabilize an upper denture we usually use 6 implants and then we remove the plastic roof of the denture which greatly enhances the taste of food and the enjoyment of eating.

What are the other advantages that are related to mini dental-implants? Once you start using them, there will be no restrictions in the type of food that can be chewed. Very often, dentists give long lectures to new denture wearers on how to avoid particular types of food. With mini implants in place there really are no food restrictions and no foods a denture wearer can’t enjoy.Freedom!!! You will know that your teeth won’t move up and down when you are talking with someone and they sure won’t fall out ever. Dr. Parkin

“I had upper mini implants done by Dr. Parkin and just 3 days in I would recommend that anyone with dentures do this.  Very little pain involved.  Motrin was all I needed the first day, and I am no longer limited to what I can eat.  I can eat a hard granola bar again!  No more gluing or pastes to keep them in place.  They are more secure than they ever were. Putting them in was very easy.  Taking them out takes a little practice, but it gets easier after a few times.” “I had top dentures, chipped off teeth, and could not eat without pain.  Now I’m not having any trouble eating, my face looks fuller, and they look good…… He did a wonderful Job!”
Richard Athen – Colorado Springs

“I would recommend implants for people who have dentures.”
Carolyn Hawk – Colorado Springs, CO

“My Implants are a part of my mouth now.  The Implant holds my teeth in place so they aren’t shifting anymore.  It’s easier to eat now and I haven’t had any problems.  I would recommend this to those with false teeth they would have less to worry about.”
Michele Liquete – Colorado Springs, CO

“I like the implants.  I only had two but wish I would’ve gotten all four done at once.  Soft teeth aren’t good; implants keep my teeth in place.  You can eat so much better and look better when you eat.  At first they were uncomfortable but now I am delighted with them.  I would absolutely recommend getting implants.  Just understand it takes a week to get used to it but it’s grand.  Just think about it.”“It’s the best thing since sliced bread!”
Dot Carlson – Colorado Springs, CO

At first I was really dreading my appointment, I was worried.  I didn’t have a reason to be, it went much better than expected, with very little pain.  It is a more permanent solution and in my opinion was better than the alternative.

Anonymous – Colorado Springs, CO

When you have decided that mini implants will really improve the quality of your life call me at 719-576-1730 and I will give you a free no obligation evaluation and I will tell you what options are available and give you pricing information so you will have all the facts in front of you.  Then you can decide what  you want done and when you want to make the life improving change.

Dr Ralph Parkin DMD

Mom kissing baby

Babies are born without cavity-causing bacteria, but did you know that by age 26 months, children have the same oral bacteria as moms?

Strep Mutans(cavity-causing bacteria) are transferred from mom to baby through saliva by kissing and sharing spoons, cups and food.  Let us not forget the occasional popping the pacifier in the mouth to “clean” it before giving it to baby.

What can you do?  Chew gum sweetened with xylitol, such as Trident, for 20 minutes three to four times a day.  Xylitol is a natural sweetener found in plants that greatly reduces cavity-causing bacteria.  For babies, wipe their gums and teeth with Spiffie wipes available at www.Spiffies.com .

Children of mothers who chew xylitol-sweetened gum require 70% fewer fillings by age 10.  Since xylitol reduces cavity-causing bacteria, cavity prevention starts when the mother is pregnant.

In addition, mothers can transfer viruses such as Herpes Simplex Type I (cold sores) to their babies through saliva.  These sores appear on or around the lips, on the roof of the mouth (hard palate), and near the gum line.  These sores are similar in appearance to canker sores but are located on gum tissue attached to bone, with exception of the lips, and can be painful.

Some infections in the mouth go undetected by those afflicted if no discomfort is involved.  Early gum disease is not always painful; however, the bacteria involved can still transfer to baby by kissing on the lips.

An important note:  Children receive little oral care if their parents don’t go to the dentist regularly.  Irregular visits as children continue into adulthood, and the cycle begins again.  Children follow by example; see your dentist and dental hygienist regularly.  Call Rhonda to make an appointment with Dr. Parkin and Susan for an exam, x-rays, and cleaning.

Susan Divine, RDH

Cheyenne Mountain Dental Center



Now lets focus are a less obvious but very powerful source of bad breath, Bacteria; especially dead bacteria.  Bacteria have a short but prolific life span and as they multiply and die in our mouths each type of bacteria leave behind rather unique foul smelling odors.  So where are these dead and dying germs hiding out;  around teeth and gums, in the spaces dentists call pockets between the gum and tooth.  They are found on the tongue especially on “hairy” tongue and fissured tongues.  Sinus bacteria and nasal bacteria can pile up ;on the far back of the tongue and as we breath and speak the air coming over these dead rotten bacteria can be very foul indeed.

What to do about it.  Be as clean as you can, floss, brush (I prefer a sonic type brush)use a tongue brush such as the new Orabrush, use a Waterpik or similar irrigation device to get between your teeth and into the spaces between your teeth and use xylitol gums and mints that help block bacterial reproduction.  The companies even have a xylitol nasal wash.  I haven’t tried it yet but the concept is interesting.  In essence avoid certain foods and be a clean mouth person.  Try this test to prove that this works; floss , brush , use irrigation and thorough tongue brushing, then rinse with a good non-alcohol mouth rinse such as the all natural herbs and essential oils “tooth and Gum Tonic” then go to bed and notice or have your partner notice your breath in the morning as compared to not doing the above. There will be a major improvement even though your saliva flow is lower.  Your mouth is simply a great place to grow smelly germs, its wet ,warm, dark and if it is not clean there is lots of stuff for germs to munch on and multiply.  As promised here are some articles from the pages of WebMD:

Change Your Breath From Bad to Good

Bad breath is embarrassing, unpleasant, and all too common. These eight easy tips will sweeten your breath for good.

(continued)

Drink more water.

Wolner says the older you get the more likely you are to get dehydrated. You might not even notice you’re thirsty, he says, so make drinking water a habit, because water will help keep the bacteria in your mouth to a minimum. Drinking water has a lot of health benefits, and preventing bad breath is one of them.

Rule out rare causes for bad breath.

While most bad breath can be banished with simple hygienic steps, there are times when dental or medical conditions might be the culprit. Make an appointment with your dentist if an unsavory odor takes residence in your mouth.

“If there is a persistent odor in your mouth, and you know it’s not from the pasta you ate last night, see a dentist,” Wolner tells WebMD. Your dentist will be able to pinpoint any cavities or decay, or even periodontal (gum) disease, that might be causing your bad breath.

Because on rare occasions bad breath can signal a larger problem, including infection, and even kidney or liver failure, you should also visit a doctor if your dentist doesn’t find a cause for your bad breath problem.

Have a slice of bread.

If you’re on one of the many popular low-carb diets, remember that bad breath or “ketone breath” is a potential side effect when you always have that burger sans bun. You can try different methods of masking the odor, such as gum or tart candies, but adding a few carbs to your daily diet might also do the trick.

Get a water pick.

You can’t really clean your entire mouth with a toothbrush. “Using an irrigator or water pick cleans everything out around and under your gums and between your teeth,” says Wolner. “If food lingers between your teeth where a toothbrush doesn’t reach, it’s fermenting.” Next time you floss, take a whiff of your floss after you’re done, and you’ll have a good idea about what fermented or rotten food particles smell like.

Don’t let bad breath go to your head.

If you think you have bad breath, get a second opinion. “A large proportion of people who think they’re social pariahs with terrible breath don’t have bad breath at all,” says Wolner.

I hope this has been helpful to you.

Ralph Parkin DMD

Invisible braces are one of the hottest new treatment options for patients who want the attractive smile they have always dreamed about, but couldn’t stand the thought of wearing braces.  Good news!

With the advent of computer aided diagnostics/computer aided manufacture (CAD/CAM) the quality has gone way up and the cost has come way down.  In the past the cost was prohibitive, usually adding several thousand dollars to the fee for care. We at Cheyenne Mountain Dental Center are happy to announce that Dr. Parkin now offers invisible braces from Clear Correct, a company that uses the CAD/CAM technology and advanced treatment planning to bring you affordable  great looking smiles. Cheap invisible braces is very good news

The benefits of invisible braces are first they are invisible as the name implies.  The teeth are easily cleaned because the aligners (clear mouth trays) are removed so brushing and flossing can be accomplished as usual. The process of straightening teeth is done with clear aligners that periodically are changed, gradually moving the teeth into the desired position.  There is no hard pushing of teeth with this technique, the teeth are simply encouraged to reposition themselves with light forces applied to them through constant wearing of the aligners. For adults who want straight attractive teeth and can’t stand the thought of the metal smile, invisible braces are ideal. For some patients in traditional braces, getting used to the braces against their lips and cheeks is not enjoyable.  If you are certain you will wear the aligners faithfully, this may be the way for you to go.

For teens, this technique is also a possible option.  The secret to success is wearing the aligners 24 hours a day except to eat and for dental hygiene (flossing and brushing to keep the cavities away).  Teens have to be highly motivated and totally committed to do their part or the treatment won’t work and the cost of care will be wasted. For that reason most of the invisible braces treatment is done for adults.  The commitment and motivation for adults needs to be the same.  Don’t start the process unless you are 100% sure you will make the appointments and wear the aligners!

If having a beautiful, winning smile appeals to you, give Christina, the receptionist at Cheyenne Mountain Dental Center a call at 719-576-1730 and as for a free evaluation for invisible braces.  Call Today!

This article from Dr. Ralph Parkin of Cheyenne Mountain Dental Center describes in detail the new single stage mini dental implants.

Mini Dental Implants (MDIs) are titanium screws that replace the root of a tooth. The ball shaped head and collar design can be used for both permanently cemented crowns or bridges as well as securing full or partial dentures. When used for fixed or cemented applications the prosthesis is cemented directly to the head of the implant. If the implant is to be used for a removable denture then a housing with a rubber gasket is attached precisely to the acrylic denture and functions like a button that snaps on and off the implant. the denture sits snugly against the gums and is retained securely allowing better chewing function and increased confidence.

How are Mini Dental Implants placed?

MDIs are placed quickly and easily using a microsurgical technique. Your dentist will use a small amount of local anesthetic and make a pin-sized puncture in the gum and jaw. The MDI is then threaded gently and carefully into the jaw. The heads of the implants protrude from the gum tissue and provide an attachment for securing dentures, or cementing crowns or bridges. It is a one step procedure involving minimally invasive surgery.

Is MDI technology a better option than “regular implants?”

Implant therapy has been one of the most significant advances in dentistry in the past 25 years. Tens of thousands of grateful patients testify to the benefits of replacing lost teeth and restoring confidence in their smile. Several different types of implants and restorations are available. The problem is, many of them are expensive and require a long recovery. Your options depend upon the amount of bone available, the patient’s general health, and restoration preference. MDIs are minimally invasive and in most cases require only local anesthesia. With an MDI, less bone is necessary, which is a great benefit for patients who have previously been told they would need bone grafts to receive any implants. Another benefit is for patients who are medically compromised and have previously been told they cannot get implants.

Why so small?

The computer and medical worlds are both striving to develop smaller and smaller components. In similar fashion, The MDI represents a smaller version of the implant. Smaller means less invasive which makes the procedure and recovery easier on you. This microsurgical approach allows Mini Implant Solutions for more patients and represents a new option for many previously denied treatment with older conventional-style implants.

Are Mini Implants more expensive?

Typically, Mini Implants are more affordable—usually half the price of conventional implant treatment. This affordability enables people to expand their treatment options, allowing some to realize their dream of fixed bridgework instead of removable dentures. Because Mini Dental Implants require less bone, this option eliminates the need for expensive, time-consuming bone graft procedures.

Who invented them?

Although many dentists and engineers participated in the development of MDIs, a few stand out individuals propelled them to their current popularity. The titanium alloy was developed about twenty years ago and was recognized as being a useful material for a variety of medical and dental implanted devices. Dr. Victor Sendax and The Imtec Corporation, now a 3M Company, developed the the Mini Dental Implant System and the important placement protocol. Many other dentists deserve credit for promoting the use of this great product and service by their lectures and research. Thousands of patients have them to thank for their new-found confidence and ability to chew and eat any foods they want.

How widely accepted are Mini Dental Implants?

A great deal of time, research and study has gone into the development of Mini Dental Implants. It is safe, bio compatible, FDA approved and provides an improved method of tooth replacement. After 40 years of study the technique is now used by thousands of dentists in many different countries and is recommended by some of the top implant dentists in the world. Because of the important service that minis provide to patients, research is ongoing and scientific journals continue to release new studies about the small diameter implants.

Conclusion

MDIs have become a real asset to both dentists and patients. MDIs are fast, easy and affordable. They can be used in a minimally invasive manner which helps patients with medical conditions who would otherwise not be a candidate for dental implant treatment. Also, MDIs allow patients to chose not to have bone graft procedures and still get a dental implant solution. So call Dr Parkin and ask if  mini dental implants will be great for you! Cheyenne Mountain Dental Center    Colorado Springs dentist       719-576-1730

If you are concerned about your smile because of tooth deficiencies, then you are not alone. There are thousands of individuals that are looking to obtain straight teeth in order to have a beautiful smile. You no longer have to feel embarrassed by the way you look, as there are many dental techniques that can straighten out your teeth in a reasonable amount of time.

1. Braces – A great way to get the straight teeth that you have always wanted is to have braces placed on your teeth. This type of orthodontics will be able to correct various types of issues with your smile — from large gaps between your teeth, under bites and over bites. Each tooth that needs to be repaired will have a bracket that is installed using dental cement. Each row of braces are then joined with a wire that allows the dentist to correct your smile.
2. Implants – If you have missing teeth, then you may want to consider implants. This dental technique provides a strong substrate that will permit an artificial tooth to fill the void. It will generally take up to six months for the implants to be accepted by the jaw bone. It is often used to replace teeth that have been lost due to gum disease, tooth decay and root canal issues.
3. Mini-implants – Similar to implants, mini-implants will also provide you with the straight teeth you are searching for, but in less time. For instance, custom dentures can be created to provide you with the smile that you deserve and they are able to be installed in one day. Additionally, patients that already wear dentures and are tired of having them come loose, can have mini-implants installed so that their existing dentures may be retrofitted.
4. Veneers – A cosmetic dentist can also provide you with straight teeth by having veneers installed on teeth that are chipped, cracked, uneven, over worn and damaged. The dental work is completed by taking a mold or cast of the subject area. The dentist will then create a custom veneer that will cover the tooth, properly aligning it with the teeth immediately around it.
5. 6-Month Smile – This type of orthodontics will provide patients with perfectly straight teeth in no more than 6 months. The secret behind this type of dental work is that a dentist only concentrates on teeth that are clearly visible or the teeth that you feel most insecure about. This is accomplished by using braces that are clear, along with wires that are colored to match your teeth. The end-result is the same as braces, but it is accomplished in less time.

Having straight teeth is important because it boosts your self-confidence level. You no longer have to live with an imperfect smile, contact your dentist today to find out more about these and other dental procedures.

From a little to a lot!

Using the “If a little is good, a lot must be better” philosophy more and more denture adhesive, even if it tastes bad and is a nasty mess, is applied.  Now here is the problem:When you read the ingredients in these adhesives, maybe you shouldn’t as the ingredients are not in the least bit appetizing, you come across Zinc which can be toxic when used in excess.  Here is the Warning O NOT USE MORE THAN DIRECTED. CONTAINS ZINC. EXCESSIVE AND PROLONGED ZINC INTAKE IS REPORTED TO BE ASSOCIATED WITH SERIOUS HEALTH PROBLEMS.  CONSULT A DOCTOR IF USING OTHER PRODUCTS CONTAINING ZINC.

Patients who are using denture adhesives in amounts greater than that directed on the package should be instructed to STOP using denture adhesives and see their dentist to be evaluated for the proper fitting of their denture or for denture replacement.  Adding more adhesive simply creates a mess and a health hazard. If you want a great reason to consider Mini Dental Implants this is certainly a good one.

Call me today and we can discuss your individual circumstances.  As always , yours in the interest of great dental health,

Dr. Ralph Parkin