Good habits are easiest taught at a young age. Oral health plays an intricate part in your child’s overall health, so of all habits to start young, good oral health habits should be at the top of the list. Poor oral health causes kids to miss over 51 million hours of class each year. February is National Children’s Dental Health Month and Gum Disease Awareness Month, so it’s a perfect opportunity to start teaching your children about the importance of good oral health. Good oral health is also critical in building positive self-image and confidence within children. We understand that trying to teach your child any habit can be difficult, but if you make oral health fun it can make creating those habits a lot easier. Here are some helpful tips to help start oral health habits with your children.
Toothbrush & Toothpaste
It’s important to let your children help choose their own toothbrush and toothpaste. When you’re at the store or ordering online let them pick the toothbrush that is their favorite color or the one that has their favorite Disney character. Also let them pick a toothpaste that is their favorite flavor. If they pick their toothbrush and toothpaste, they are more likely to want to brush their teeth every morning and night
Family Time
Make oral health habits a family affair, brush and floss your teeth together. Kids are known to copy what their parents do, so if you have a positive attitude about oral health and brush and floss your teeth with proper technique, your children are likely to mimic you.
Books
There are a lot of good books out there that teach about oral health and the dentist. Stories designed for children are great for teaching them how to take care of their teeth and for making oral health something that they can relate to. Here are few good ones that are fun to read with your children before bedtime.
When it’s time for your children to brush their teeth, you can start a sand timer or regular timer or even better, play their favorite song that runs for two minutes. Playing their favorite song or one they really like helps keep them focused on the song, not the two minutes that they need to be brushing their teeth.
Videos
There are a lot of good YouTube videos out there that you can watch with your children that teach about oral health. Here is a fun video by the Native American ToothFairy.
Post Dental Visit
After your children visit the dentist, it’s okay to reward them for their hard work and for their good oral health. It’s important to note that it’s not good to reward them with sugary food that can damage their teeth. Instead offer your children something healthy or a toy. Or even better, take them to do a fun activity. Maybe visit their favorite park or watch their favorite movie when you get home.
Don’t Give Up
It’s important to keep practicing oral health habits with your children even though it can be a challenge. If you can get your children excited about daily dental hygiene, they will be able to create a habit that will stay with them as they get older. We know the topic of oral health isn’t that intriguing to children, but you can make it fun so that they don’t dread brushing and flossing their teeth or visiting the dentist.
Roseman Dental is here to help keep the tiny teeth in your family in tip-top shape. Contact us today to schedule your child’s semi-annual exam.
News flash – oral health is so much more than just your teeth! Your mouth is the window to the health of your body. Oral health includes not only the health of your teeth, but also your gums, bones, ligaments, muscles, glands, and nerves. Your ability to speak, smile, smell, taste, touch, chew, swallow, and make facial expressions to show feelings and emotions is impacted negatively or positively based on the condition of your oral health. Having good oral health gives an individual confidence in their self-image and sense of well-being.
Mouth and Body Connection
If your mouth is not healthy you could face far more serious consequences than just a simple toothache; however, the mouth is a fascinating thing. It can warn you of the start of more serious health conditions. It can show signs of nutritional deficiencies, general infection, and the onset of systemic diseases – diseases that can affect other parts of the body or the entire body – such as diabetes and AIDS. Diabetes complications can occur when you have inflammation of the gum tissue and periodontal disease (a disease more common in diabetic patients). These, in combination, can make it harder to control your blood sugar and make your diabetes symptoms worse.
Gum disease, an indicator of poor oral health and a chronic inflammatory condition, is linked to illnesses such as:
Heart Disease – A disease that is most known as coronary artery disease or cardiovascular disease. This disease causes decreased blood flow to the heart which can cause a heart attack.
Respiratory Disease – A disease that affects the lungs and other parts of the respiratory system. Respiratory diseases may be caused by infection, smoking tobacco, or breathing in secondhand tobacco smoke, radon, asbestos, or other forms of air pollution. Respiratory diseases include asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, pneumonia, and lung cancer. Also called lung disorder and pulmonary disease.
Osteoporosis – A bone disease that occurs when the body loses too much bone, makes too little bone, or both. As a result, bones become weak and may break from a fall or, in serious cases, from sneezing or minor bumps.
Rheumatoid Arthritis – An autoimmune and inflammatory disease where your immune system attacks healthy cells in your body by mistake, causing inflammation (painful swelling) in the affected parts of the body.
Good Oral Health = Good Overall Health
It is important to establish good hygiene habits so that your oral health does not negatively impact your overall health. There are a variety of steps that can be taken to make sure that your oral health is in tiptop shape.
Brushing your teeth twice a day & after every meal for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste
Drinking water with fluoride
Flossing daily
Eating a balanced diet
Limiting sweet snacks between meals
Staying away from sugary foods and drinks and try not to sip or eat on them all day. If you want a sugary food or drink, have one at mealtimes.
Visiting your dentist at least every six months for cleanings, prevention and treatment of cavities
Good Oral Health Saves Lives
Taking preventative steps and teaching your family good oral hygiene routines now can not only save their oral health, but also save their lives. With the new year, set a new goal to make your oral health a priority. Last year caused many of us to get behind on our oral health due to dental offices being closed. Dental offices are back up and running so don’t delay, schedule your appointment and make sure your oral health is in tiptop shape.
Contact Roseman Dental to schedule your dental exam.
Not everyone is born with straight teeth. Many people have crooked teeth that can cause many issues for their oral health which then affects their overall health. Orthodontic treatment works to align teeth to ensure proper function of teeth and create healthy smiles.
Benefits
Straightening your teeth is more than aesthetic, it improves your overall oral health. Improperly aligned teeth are harder to clean and can cause tooth decay and many other painful dental disorders – leading to extensive and expensive dental procedures. In addition, misaligned teeth can make it harder to chew – leading to headaches, shoulder and back pain, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
Orthodontic treatment aligns your teeth to form a better bite decreasing the risk of future, and potentially costly dental problems.
How Does Orthodontic Treatment Work?
Orthodontic treatment involves a variety of appliances used to create changes in jaw bones, facial bones, and soft tissue while teeth are moved into their new positions. During an orthodontic consultation, you will meet with an orthodontist to have a thorough examination of your teeth and mouth. They review your dental records – x-rays, photos, and models of your teeth. From here your orthodontist will advise you on which approach is right for you and work to develop a custom treatment plan.
Orthodontic Treatment Options
Orthodontic treatment is for everyone and works to correct teeth and jaws that are positioned improperly. There are a variety of fixed and removeable appliances that an orthodontist may recommend for treatment. Depending on how severe your situation, your orthodontist may require traditional metal, clear, or Invisalign® braces for your treatment, as well as additional removable appliances.
Metal Braces: Made from a high-grade stainless steel, these braces provide the highest-quality treatment. Metal braces are the most common type of braces. They consist of bands, wires, and brackets that are adhered to your teeth. Historically they’ve been considered unattractive, but now they are smaller, more comfortable and attractive.
Ceramic (clear) Braces: This form of braces includes bands, wires, and brackets. Although like metal, ceramic braces are made from a clear, ceramic material – allowing a more discreet option.
Invisalign®: Unlike metal and ceramic braces, Invisalign® is a removable aligner. Rather than wires and brackets, Invisalign® utilizes a clear material that fits over your teeth. Although this is the most discreet option, it is only available to those with specific orthodontic bite problems.
How Do I Know if I Need Braces?
Several problems could lead to orthodontic treatment. An overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite may be a culprit to needing treatment. In addition, a misplaced midline, spacing, or crowding could also be cause for treatment.
Overbite – your upper front teeth stick out over your lower teeth
Underbite – your lower teeth are too far forward, and your upper teeth are too far back
Crossbite – when your mouth is closed, the upper teeth sit behind the lower teeth
Open Bite – a vertical gap exists between your front lower and upper teeth when biting down
Misplaced Midline – center of your upper and lower teeth doesn’t line up
Spacing – random gaps or spaces between teeth causing your teeth to not completely fill up your mouth
Crowding – when the dental ridge in your mouth doesn’t have enough room for all your teeth
With the use of diagnostic tools such as clinical exams, plastic models of your teeth, and x-rays an orthodontist will be able to correctly determine which treatment is right for you.
How Long Will I Need to Wear Braces?
Treatment time varies depending on each patient’s specific diagnosis and treatment plan. In general, most patient’s treatment times range from 12 to 24 months. For those with problems that are harder to correct or adults, treatment may take up to three years. If problems are less severe or you’re a good candidate for clear aligners, such as Invisalign®, treatment may take as little as 6 to 12 months.
How Much Does Orthodontic Treatment Cost?
Cost of treatment is dependent on several variables. Types of braces, age of patient, type of orthodontic issue being corrected, and length of treatment are just some of the variables that could contribute to your final cost of treatment. For instance, traditional metal braces tend to be less expensive than clear braces or aligners. While cost is dependent on various factors, the average cost of orthodontic treatment for children can vary between $2,000-7,000. For adult braces or aligners, the cost can range anywhere from $3,000-8,000. These are estimated costs. The exact cost will depend on your needs, the factors mentioned above, and any dental insurance you may have to cover orthodontic treatment.
When teeth are properly aligned it’s easier to practice good oral hygiene such as brushing and flossing. In addition, orthodontic treatment will help give you the freedom to smile without holding back! If you’re experiencing any of the above problems, schedule a free orthodontic screening and consultation (Nevada location only) with Roseman Dental & Orthodontics. We’re dedicated to increasing your confidence and helping you maintain good oral health.
A New Year is not only a fresh start, but a great time to make positive changes in our lives. One of the most common new year resolutions is to have a healthier, everyday lifestyle. Whether it’s eating better, being more physically active, or getting your wellness in order – looking out for your overall health is important. This is especially true when it comes to your oral health.
Your oral health is directly tied to your overall health and your smile is a reflection of good oral health. There are several dental procedures that can help you gain a fresh smile in the new year.
Routine Dental Check-ups
Twice a year (every six months) dental appointments are essential to your oral health. These routine visits not only prevent oral disease but allow for early detection of any problems that would otherwise include more extensive (and expensive) treatments to fix. Staying up to date on your semi-annual dental visits will keep you on track with any treatments you may need and save you money in the long run.
Dental Implants
If you’re missing teeth, dental implants are great way to fill the gaps and get that fresh smile you’ve been looking for. Dental implants are artificial roots that are placed in your jawbone and bond with your natural bone. They are the strongest devices available to support new teeth. In addition, they allow new teeth to look, feel, and function naturally – giving you the confidence to smile again!
Root Canal
A root canal is often thought of as a painful procedure, but it’s actually relatively painless and extremely effective. This procedure is designed to eliminate bacteria from the infected root canal and save the natural tooth. A root canal is very similar to a routine filling and can usually be completed in one or two appointments. Therefore, you’ll be back to smiling, biting, and chewing in no time.
Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatments are for everyone and work to correct teeth and jaws that are positioned improperly. Modern braces come in a variety forms – traditional metal, clear, and Invisalign®. Each form helps to straighten teeth which prevents additional health problems and boosts self-confidence. When teeth are properly aligned it’s easier to practice good oral hygiene such as brushing and flossing. In addition, orthodontic treatment will help give you the freedom to smile without holding back!
Your Smile Matters
Your smile conveys so much to yourself and the world. Studies show that the mere act of smiling makes people happy. Now is the time to spread happiness with a fresh smile. Let 2021 be the year you’re proud to share your smile with the world! Contact Roseman Dental to schedule an appointment for your routine cleaning or ask about our other services that may benefit or improve your dental health.
Dental fillings are one of the most common dental procedures performed by dentists today and are used to treat cavities and fix damage caused by decay. According to the American Dental Association, about 175 million filling operations are performed in the United States every year. That is a lot of fillings, but what exactly is a filling?
Types of Fillings
There are 5 types of fillings.
Amalgam Filling– This type of filling, also known as a silver filling, has been used for over 150 years. Amalgam is defined as a mixture or blend. In the dental world it is a mixture of metals – about 50 percent mercury with the remaining 50 percent being comprised of tin, copper, silver, or zinc. Amalgam fillings are the least expensive, very strong, and last a long time; however, it is silver in color so it’s not as visually appealing when opening your mouth.
Composite Filling– This type of filling is ideal if you want your filling to look natural and match your other teeth. Composite fillings can be closely matched to the color of your existing teeth and are very desirable if you need a filling on your front teeth or the visible parts of your teeth. Although a composite filling is more aesthetically pleasing, they are not as durable as amalgam fillings. That being said, a typical composite filling can last five years, sometimes longer, if you practice good oral hygiene.
Metal– This type of filling, also known as a gold filling, is extremely durable and can last upwards of 10 to 15 years; however, the cost of a metal filling can be 10 times higher than the cost of a silver amalgam filling. The look of this filling is also not as aesthetically pleasing as a composite filling.
Ceramic– This type of filling is typically made from porcelain and is more resistant to staining than a composite filling. It lasts more than 15 years, but can cost as much as a gold metal filling.
Glass Ionomer Filling– This type of filling is commonly used for fillings that are below the gum line and fillings on young children. It is made from acrylic and a special type of glass material. This filling releases fluoride into the mouth which assists in preventing more decay and helps to protect the tooth. This type of filling is comparable to the cost of a composite filling.
The type of filling you receive is based on factors such as location and extent of the decay, cost of the filling material, insurance coverage, and of course what your dentist recommends.
How to Prevent Cavities
Cavities are permanently damaged areas in the hard surface of your teeth that develop into tiny openings or holes. If cavities are not treated, they can cause sensitivity, pain, infections, and can even cause you to lose your teeth. Although cavities are treated by fillings, there are things you can do to prevent cavities from occurring and avoid needing a filling . . . or two or three.
Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste.
Drink water with fluoride.
Floss daily.
Eat a balanced diet.
Limit sweet snacks between meals.
Stay away from sugary foods and drinks and try not to sip or eat on them all day. If you want a sugary food or drink, have one at mealtimes.
Visit your dentist regularly.
If you’re experiencing pain or it’s been a while since you’ve seen a dentist, Roseman Dental can help. Contact us today.
If you are missing teeth, dentures and implants are viable options for you.
Dentures
Dentures or false teeth are synthetic replacements for missing natural teeth. Some dentures are designed to replace a few missing teeth or can replace all teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues. There are two types of dentures – complete and partial.
Complete Dentures
Complete (full) dentures are meant to replace all teeth and are removed nightly. There are three types of removable complete dentures – conventional, immediate and implant-retained. Conventional dentures are made after the teeth have been removed and the gums have healed. This type of complete denture can be placed about six to 12 weeks after the teeth have been removed, but the patient is without teeth for that time. An immediate complete denture is made prior to teeth extraction and is placed immediately after teeth have been removed. Although the patient goes home with teeth, bones and gums shrink over time and this type of complete denture requires more adjustments to fit properly during the healing process. An immediate complete denture should only be considered a temporary solution until the conventional complete denture can be made. Implant-retained dentures (overdentures) click into place and latch onto the metal posts of implants, also known as abutments. This type of complete denture increases stability and improves chewing function better than the conventional or immediate denture option.
Complete dentures should be the last option after all other tooth restorations are decided to be ineffective by you and your dentist.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are used when one ore more natural teeth remain in the upper or lower jaw and can be fixed or removable. There are a few options when it comes to fixed partial dentures. Implant-supported bridge is one fixed option and uses implants as abutments. This type of partial denture replaces a few missing teeth in a row with two dental implants. Tooth-supported fixed bridge, is another fixed partial denture option, grinds away healthy adjacent teeth that are used to attach and support the bridge. Resin-bonded bridge, the last option for a fixed partial denture, is also known as a Maryland Bridge. This type of denture has wings on each side of the artificial tooth to attach to healthy, adjacent teeth but usually doesn’t involve preparing, or grinding down those adjacent teeth. This option only works well for front teeth that don’t endure the biting and chewing that back teeth do.
Removable partial dentures can either be cast or acrylic. Cast are made of tissue colored acrylic (gums), replacement teeth, and a metal framework that holds all the materials together. Acrylic or “flippers,” are made of acrylic resin and mimic the look and function of natural teeth. They come with or without clasps of shaped wire. Acrylic false teeth are temporary because a patient’s gums entirely support the teeth.
Dentures are not for everyone but could be the best choice for individuals whose gums and jaw are weak or unhealthy.
Implants
Dental implants are artificial roots made from titanium rods or screws that are fused to your jawbone and bond with your natural bone. These rods or screws serve as a base for a permanent tooth replacement – crown – that mimic the look and feel of a natural tooth and serve as a sturdy base for supporting one or more artificial teeth. Once the screw or rod is placed, a connector – abutment – is placed on top of the dental implant to hold and support your crown which is custom-made to match your natural teeth and fit your mouth functionally and esthetically. Dental implants are the only dental restoration option that preserves natural bone and helps to stimulate bone growth.
Dentures vs. Implants: A Comparison
Appearance
Dentures are not permanent whereas implants are permanent and look, feel and act like your own teeth.
Speech
Dentures, specifically poor-fitting ones, slip in the mouth causing you to mumble or slur your words. Implants don’t slip because they are permanent which allows you to speak normal without the worry of your teeth slipping.
Comfort
Dentures tend to be less comfortable because they are removable. Common complaints with dentures include bulkiness, excessive saliva, soreness and irritation. Implants are more comfortable because they become part of you by fusing to your jawbone. Because of this, dental implants feel natural and fit well in your mouth.
Eating
Dentures are known to slide and can make it difficult to chew. Dental implants work like your own teeth allowing you to eat your favorite foods without pain or difficulty.
Self-Esteem
Both dentures and dental implants restore your smile and help you feel better about yourself. Dental implants look more natural compared to dentures, but if your denture is done correctly most people aren’t able to tell the difference.
Longevity
Dentures typically need to be replaced every five to eight years. Dental implants, if taken care of, can last as long as natural teeth.
Convenience
Dentures are removable therefore less convenient. Dental implants are permanent and get rid of the embarrassing inconvenience of removing dentures and dealing with the messy adhesives that dentures require.
Cost
The price of dental implants varies, depending on how many additional procedures you need to undergo. It is possible that your insurance will pay up to 50% of the cost of your dentures, whereas dental implants are much less likely to be covered under your dental insurance plan. However, given that dentures tend not to last as long, you should factor in the expense associated with replacing them. This alone could make dentures more expensive than dental implants in the long run.
So, Dentures or Implants?
It is important to consult with your dentist before you decide on dentures or implants because each case is different. If you are missing a tooth or multiple teeth, Roseman Dental can help. Contact us today.
James M. Broadbent, DDS, MS Associate Professor of Dental Medicine
Dr. James M. Broadbent joined Roseman University of Health Sciences in 2009 (the first year of orthodontic residency training) as a full-time faculty member in the Advanced Education in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics/MBA (AEODO/MBA) Residency Program. At Roseman, he is course director of several modules of learning. He serves on University faculty senate and several committees. His professional and research interests include phase I orthopedic growth modification, functional jaw orthopedics, accelerated orthodontics, facial esthetics, and air way and temporomandibular joint disorders.
Dr. Broadbent graduated from Brigham Young University with a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Zoology. Dr. Broadbent received his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the Northwestern University Dental School in Chicago. He completed a dental specialties internship at the Chandler Medical Center, University of Kentucky. He then served as an Assistant Professor of Crown and Bridge at Northwestern University Dental School and practiced general dentistry prior to dental specialty training. Dr Broadbent received his Master of Science (MS) degree and Certificate in Orthodontics from Northwestern University.
Dr. Broadbent practiced orthodontics many years in Provo, Utah, and served as adjunct faculty at Utah Technical College (now Utah Valley University), American Institute of Medical Dental Technology, and Provo College. Dr. Broadbent made a significant contribution to the art and science of orthodontics in teaching numerous continuing education courses, seminars, and presentations at local, state, and national and international dental meetings, and university graduate training programs. Along the way, he was awarded the Joseph E. Johnson Outstanding Table Clinic, American Association of Orthodontists, and twice the (AAFO) J. Robert Bronson Clinician of the Year award.
Dr. Broadbent completed board certification in orthodontics, achieving the status of Diplomate, American Board of Orthodontics. His interest and training in temporomandibular joint disorders and oral facial pain lead to achieving status of Diplomate, American Academy of Pain Management.
Dr. Broadbent has published many articles in several professional journals. He served as president of the Provo District Dental Society, Utah Dental Association annual program, and president of the Utah Association of Orthodontists.
Dr. Broadbent demonstrates vision and leadership in community organizations and service. He is recognized as a Kentucky Colonel, Commonwealth of Kentucky; member President’s Club, Brigham Young University; Boy Scouts of America distinguished Silver Beaver; and James E. West Fellow. For more than 20 years he served the Boy Scouts of America; Utah National Parks Council (one of the largest National BSA Councils), as Council Jamboree Chairman; National Boy Scout Jamboree, A.P. Hill Virginia (1985, 1989, 1993); and Chair of highly successful Council Events (1996, 2000) and as Utah National Parks Council Commissioner (1987-2000) and UNPC Vice President Program (2000-2003). He earned the distinguished Eagle Scout and Silver Explorer awards.
Dr. Broadbent is a member of the American Dental Association, Utah Dental Association, American Association of Orthodontists, Rocky Mountain Society of Orthodontists, Utah Association of Orthodontists, American Association for Functional Orthodontics, International Association for Orthodontics, and the American Dental Educators Association.
Before joining Roseman University of Health Sciences, he served as attending dentist and adjunct faculty instructor of several courses of education at Salt Lake Community College, Dental Hygiene Program (South Jordan Utah Campus).
Dr. Broadbent is licensed to practice dentistry in California, Nevada, and Utah.
Personal activities include fly fishing, off-road rock crawling motor sports, over landing motor sports, and white water river running.
Prashanti Bollu, MBA, MS, DMD Program Director, Associate Professor of Dental Medicine, AEODO/MBA Program
Dr. Prashanti Bollu received dental school training from Boston University School of Dental Medicine. She holds a Master’s degree in Health Care Administration as well as a Master’s in Business Administration. Part of the inaugural class, Dr. Bollu received her orthodontic training from the Roseman University of Health Sciences.
Dr. Bollu has received several awards for outstanding academic achievements during her undergraduate and graduate training. Her interest in research was sparked early in dental school and strengthened further during her employment at Boston University during which time she worked with many prominent researchers. She has been involved in several research projects and presented multiple posters at national conferences. Dr. Bollu has been recognized by DENTSPLY and Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Society, for outstanding research.
Besides serving as a clinical and teaching faculty, Dr. Bollu was actively involved in growing the research component of the Advanced Education in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics (AEODO) /MBA Residency Program. As Director of Dental Research for College of Dental Medicine (Henderson Campus), she facilitated all resident and faculty research endeavors. Her research interests include Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT), practice management issues, orthodontic insurance coverage gaps and access to orthodontic care.
Currently, Dr. Prashanti Bollu serves as the Interim Program Director for the AEODO/MBA residency program. She also practices in a few private orthodontic offices in the Las Vegas area. Dr. Bollu is a Board Certified Orthodontist and has active professional affiliations with multiple national and regional dental/orthodontic associations including American Association of Orthodontics, Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists, and Southern Nevada Dental Society. She has also been a member of the International Association of Dental Research as well as the American Association of Dental Research.
