Shwedel Dental Smile Times

Beware Of Valentine’s Day!

2012-02-08T07:09:00.000-08:00

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and you may be getting ready for some special kisses to come your way.

So even though at Shwedel Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re concerned about cavities, gum disease, and bad breath, we won’t use this month’s blog entry to turn you off about kissing. But we will tell you some interesting facts that you can tell your kissing partner right after they smack one on you!!

Anthropologists have argued for years about the origin of kissing. Many now believe that it has evolved from the time when mothers chewed food for their babies and then went mouth to mouth at feeding time. This action became so comforting to babies that the habit continued even after they could chew for themselves, and then developed into a sign of affection.

Nowadays kisses aren’t just about romantic love. Of course parents kiss their children. Worshippers often kiss religious artifacts. Some people kiss the ground when exiting an airplane. And who doesn’t want to have a “boo boo” kissed?

But February 14^th is a day for the romantic kind of kiss, and if you are craving one, there may be a scientific reason. While this action can promote a psychological response of warmth and affection, it also causes your brain to secrete some important and productive chemicals, such as:

· Oxytocin, which helps people develop feelings of attachment, devotion and affection for one another
· Dopamine, which plays a role in the brain's processing of emotions, pleasure and pain
· Serotonin, which affects a person's mood and feelings
· Adrenaline, which increases heart rate and plays a role in your body's fight-or-flight response

But along with that, when you kiss, hundreds or even millions of bacterial colonies are transported from one mouth to the other. And let’s face it – no one wants to kiss a person who has poor oral hygiene, bad breath, or just a generally yucky mouth. So let’s start with the basics:

· Make sure you brush at least twice a day with a soft toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste.

· Floss once per day – if you have trouble flossing or are not sure how, please ask! We’ll be glad to show you the ropes.

· Avoid sugary and acid-laden foods such as soft drinks, sports drinks, and candy. (Okay - we won’t tell anyone if you have a tiny bit of candy on Valentine’s Day!)

· Eat a well balanced diet including lean proteins, healthy fats, fruits and vegetables, nuts and fiber.

· If you need to slip in a piece of gum or breath mint, make sure it contains Xylitol, which has been proven to reduce tooth decay.

· Drink plenty of water! This helps to rinse away food particles, and staying hydrated is good for fresh clean breath.

· See you dentist on a regular basis and call immediately if you suspect there are any problems with your oral condition.

Here at Shwedel Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we want you to have a kissable February 14^th and a lifetime of excellent dental health. If you have any questions or need to set up an appointment, please give us a call at 313-292-5590 or visit our website www.shwedeldental.com. We are looking forward to seeing you soon!

Dentistry From the Heart was Huge Success for Third Year!

2011-10-06T07:40:00.000-07:00

Shwedel Dental, in Taylor, Michigan, held their 3rd Annual Dentistry From the Heart event on Saturday, September 24, 2011. Dr. Steven Shwedel and his team of 50+ volunteers, including Dr. Caroline Okonkowski, Dr. Michael Chaben, Dr. Chris Paulson and Oral Surgeons Dr. Paul Ho and Dr. William Ruskin, provided FREE dentistry to 125 people in need. Each person received a filling or an extraction or a dental cleaning. In total almost $36,000 in dental services were performed between 8:00am and 5:00pm.

“As a growing number of Americans are out of a job or just don’t have dental insurance, we felt this was a great way to help address the problem and to give back to the Taylor community,” said Dr. Shwedel.

Dentistry From the Heart is a non-profit organization with a simple mission – making people smile. “Believe me, the smiles and thanks we received from all the people we treated made the long hours and hard work one of the most rewarding experiences of our lives,” said Dr. Shwedel.

Thanks and appreciation goes to all the businesses and groups that through their generous donations helped us make this event so successful. Benco Dental Supply, Crest/Oral B, City of Taylor DPW and Parks & Rec., Olson’s Party Rental, Acee Deucee, MI Custom Sign, Shopping Savvy Magazine and the Taylor Rotary as well as Texas Roadhouse for providing food for the patients as well as the volunteers.

Dr. Shwedel and his volunteers have already marked their calendars in anticipation of their fourth annual Dentistry From the Heart event to be held on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2012.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QYiRtJlEB4c

The Sahara Desert and Your Mouth???

2011-06-22T08:09:00.000-07:00

Do you ever feel like your mouth and The Sahara Desert have something in common?

If so, you are not alone. Over 25 million Americans suffer from dry mouth. And it’s not just the discomfort of dry mouth (called “xerostomia” by dentists) that is the problem. It is often accompanied by trouble chewing and swallowing, difficulty in speaking, a rise in dental cavities and gum disease, and most noticeably to some, bad breath. If people act like there is a fire drill taking place every time you open your mouth, this could be the culprit!

So why do so many of us have what is often referred to as “cottonmouth?”

According to The Food and Drug Administration, over 400 medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, can lead to dry mouth. It’s also caused by mouth breathing, dehydration (drink your water!!), and lack of salivary flow due to aging. In rare instances, dry mouth may be caused by an underlying serious disease – so it is not something to take lightly.

Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking are also among the leading causes of this problem, so if you need another reason to put away the cigarettes for good and cut down on the “adult beverages,” now is a great time!

There are several things you can do to help reduce the symptoms of dry mouth, including:

· Chewing a sugar-free gum containing Xylitol

· Drinking plenty of water

· Breathing through your nose instead of your mouth (easier said than done!)

· Frequent brushing and rinsing with a fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinse

· Using a room vaporizer to humidify the air in your home

· Using an over-the-counter saliva substitute

Since dry mouth can also be a sign of a serious illness AND cause an increase in cavities and gum disease, excellent oral hygiene and regular dental visits are a must. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please call us immediately at 313-292-5900 for an appointment or visit our website at www.ShwedelDental.com. Your health is important to us and we are here to help you.

SPECTRA IS HERE!!!

2011-05-02T08:11:00.000-07:00

We are pleased to announce that Shwedel Dental now has the latest technology in the battle against tooth decay. The early cavity detection device is called SPECTRA and uses technology similar to Doppler Radar. It gives us the ability to evaluate all surfaces of your teeth. While traditional technology allows us to evaluate only the deep pits and grooves, SPECTRA also check along the margins of old restorations and crowns for new or recurrent decay.

Spectra displays colored images on the computer screen so you will be able to see for yourself what is happening. Each color corresponds to differing degrees of decay:

v A green image means the enamel is sound and there is no decay. For teeth that display only green or sound enamel, we strongly recommend that you have sealants, which will seal off the deep pits and groove in hope of preventing future decay.

v A blue image means decay is in the beginning stages (de-mineralization has begun) and we recommend that you begin using a fluoride supplement, such as Prevident Rinse or MI Paste to help remineralize the teeth.

v A red image means there is deep decay in the enamel, an orange image means deep decay through the enamel and into the dentin (the second layer of tooth), a yellow image means deep decay into the dentin. For teeth that display red, orange and/or yellow images, we recommend that you have the areas of decay removed and new restoration placed.

At Shwedel Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, it is our goal to keep your mouth healthy and your smile beautiful. Any questions? Call us at #313-292-5590 or visit our website http://www.shwedeldental.com/

We look forward to showing you how SPECTRA can help in your fight against tooth decay.

Less Taste, More Fillings?

2011-04-04T07:47:00.000-07:00

The band Steely Dan once sang a song about “Gold Teeth” – but more of us probably have silver in our teeth than gold.

Recently many patients have been asking about the difference between traditional “silver” fillings and the more modern tooth colored or “white” fillings. Here is a little history (we will try to make it fun!) and then some answers to many questions people seem to be having.

Ancient dentists used materials as diverse as cork, turpentine, gum, lead and stone chips to restore decayed teeth. Then in China (long before they were making iPods and Nike tennis shoes) dentists began experimenting with silver as a material to plug unwanted dental holes.

After experimenting with many formulations over the years, in the early 1800’s a French dentist, named Louis Regnart, added mercury to the mix, creating the first version of the modern day silver filling, known as dental amalgam. The formula was so controversial that when it was first introduced in the U.S. by two other Frenchmen, they were run out of the country! Eventually the formula was perfected and it became the material still in use today which we typically call “silver fillings.” Most Americans who visit the dentist on a regular basis (especially those of us over thirty or so) have a few of these gems in our mouths.

Lately some groups have pointed out that mercury can be a very unhealthy thing to have in your body, and have actually called for all of these fillings to be removed! While it is true that in large quantities mercury is toxic, after extensive studies the American Dental Association has concluded that there are NO significant health risks to using the time-tested material.

However, we feel it is important to point out two major differences between these traditional silver amalgam fillings and more modern tooth colored materials. A silver filling does not actually bond to the healthy tooth structure; it is kept in place by placing the material using a wedge effect. So while it may do a good job of replacing a decayed area in your tooth, it also weakens the tooth and makes it more susceptible to cracks and fractures, often leading to more extensive treatment such as a crown which covers the tooth completely. For this reason, we are extra careful to check these fillings and surrounding tooth structure very closely during your examination for any signs cracking or breakdown.

On the other hand, a tooth colored filling (known as “composite”) actually bonds to healthy tooth and creates one big strong healthy tooth unit. The major difference is obvious – a composite filling is a beautiful almost invisible way to treat a decayed tooth while an amalgam filling looks like metal. Do you ever see a famous singer on TV open wide to reveal a mouth of silver? We see it all the time. (Of course, we are dentally obsessed and may be looking more closely than you!)

So keep brushing and flossing well, eating a healthy diet and getting regular dental visits, and maybe you will never have to worry about this! But should you have a cavity – we will be glad to discuss all of the options with you and work together to figure out the best way to treat your individual situation. Our goal is to provide treatment which is strong and beautiful too! At Shwedel Dental, we always want to recommend the absolute best options to suit your needs and keep your mouth healthy for the rest of your life. Should you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule an appointment, please give us a call at 313-292-5590 or visit us a www.ShwedelDental.com. We are Taylor’s Dentist for the Whole Family!!!

NOT JUST FOR KIDS ANYMORE!!!

2011-02-08T09:48:00.000-08:00

No longer are fluoride treatments just for children. New research shows that everyone, regardless of age, can benefit from them. Fluoride not only helps protect newly erupting teeth from decay, but mature teeth that present their own set of needs. Such as exposed roots from gum recession or the margins where crowns & teeth meet or even the effects of dry mouth as a result of medication & decreased saliva.

Most insurance companies feel only children need fluoride or at least only pay for children’s fluoride. And that lack of coverage makes many people think adults don’t need or wouldn’t benefit from fluoride treatments. However, that is not the case. At your next cleaning, ask your hygienist if fluoride would be right for you.

At Shwedel Dental, we are now strongly encouraging all of our patients to have a fluoride treatment after having their teeth cleaned. With the plaque, tartar and biofilm removed during the cleaning, the teeth are most receptive to absorbing the fluoride and thus making the teeth more resistant to decay. Should you have any questions about fluoride or any other dental related topic, including the latest ways to get a beautiful smile, please contact us at 313-292-5590. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Tired Of New Year’s Resolutions? Read This!!!

2010-12-27T08:23:00.000-08:00

As 2011 approaches, everyone is busy making their New Year’s resolutions that will be forgotten by the time February comes along.

That is why we are glad to present to you a list of a different kind – our top six “2011 New Year’s Denta-Lutions!” They are fun, important, and will help you to have a happy and healthy year!

Get Rid Of That Ugly Thing!

Most people keep toothbrushes around way too long. Not only do they become loaded with bacteria and other junk, the bristles simply wear out and do not do an effective job of cleaning your teeth. The American Dental Association recommends a new toothbrush at least every three months, and we agree! If the bristles begin to fray or splay before that, you are probably brushing way too hard. We will be glad to show you how to brush correctly!

What Is That Stuff?

It comes in a small plastic box, it’s very thin, and sometimes it’s used to hang pictures. Yes – it’s called dental floss, and we know that chances are you don’t use it on a regular basis. But flossing is the best way to remove plaque, bacteria and particles from between your teeth as well as cleaning areas of your gums that can’t otherwise be reached. The fact is, if you aren’t flossing every day, there is gross stuff growing in your mouth. If you would like some instruction on proper flossing technique (it’s easy once you know how!) and some encouragement, just let us know.

There’s Blood Coming Out Of My WHAT?

If your eyes were bleeding or blood was coming out of your backside, you would certainly see a doctor immediately. Well, the same is true with your gums. Brushing or flossing should not cause your gums to bleed at all. If your gums do bleed or if you see pink or red when you rinse, your gums are infected. Don’t put it off – call us right away!

Get Off Your Butt

As if you didn’t need another reason to quit smoking – tobacco products are a leading cause of oral cancer, a deadly disease which kills roughly one person per hour, twenty four hours per day. Make 2011 the year you finally kick this smelly, dirty, disgusting and deadly habit. Your loved ones will thank you to no end!!

Don’t Stand So Close To Me!

Maybe you have bad breath and are too embarrassed to do anything about it. Or maybe you find yourself constantly reaching for mints and gum because people seem to be always backing off when you speak. Don’t be ashamed – we are here to help! Bad breath frequently has dental causes – many of them long term conditions that are very dangerous to your health (as well as your friendships). Please don’t be embarrassed – talk to us! We are here to help!

Tell Your Friends!

At Shwedel Family Dentistry, we are fortunate to have a great practice and enjoy providing our patients with the best quality dental care possible. But we will always welcome your family, friends, co-workers or anyone else who would like to experience the great things we have to offer. Please have them give us a call at 313-292-5590. You’ll be giving them the best gift of all – the gift of health!

We hope that this list of New Year’s “Denta-Lutions” was helpful to you. If you have any questions or comments, please drop us a line at sfsdds1@yahoo.com or call us at 313-292-5590. You also visit us at www.shwedeldental.com. May “2011” be your best year yet!!

Halloween Is Scarier Than You Think!

2010-10-28T19:34:00.001-07:00

Any day now we’ll be putting on funny costumes, acting a little crazy and eating all kinds of stuff that we shouldn’t. And that’s just the adults! For kids, Halloween can be a fantastic time to have fun and be creative. But unfortunately when all those sticky sugary candies are involved, it can be a dental disaster.

The good news is, Halloween and dental health can mix if you just take a few simple precautions. Here are our suggestions to make Halloween 2010 a success without the cavities!

Let you kids know that even though they may come home with a sack full of goodies, there still are some rules to let them both enjoy the treats and keep their bodies healthy.

1. Don’t allow them to overeat. A few pieces of candy each day for a few days is much better than an all-out engorgement. And if they bring home hundreds of pieces, everyone can feel good about donating much of it to a local food bank.

2. Avoid the really “sticky” stuff like taffy and caramel corn. This is difficult to remove from the tooth surfaces and can actually damage teeth permanently.

3. Make sure that your kids are brushing three times per day for at least one minute per session. Before bed and after eating candy are “must-brush” times.

4. Encourage flossing to remove the sticky stuff from between the teeth. If you or your kids aren’t sure how to properly floss, we will gladly give you a lesson! It’s very easy to do once you know how.

5. Have your kids use a fluoride rinse before bedtime. If you’re not sure which is the right one for your child’s age, please ask us.

6. If your children will be eating candy as they are out trick-or-treating, make sure that they take a small bottle or container of water with them. Rinsing and swishing or even taking small sips of water right after eating candy can prevent things from sticking.

Have you considered taking a different route than giving out traditional candy when your doorbell rings? Not only will you differentiate yourself from everyone else on the block, you will be helping your community’s dental heath! Here are a few suggestions for things to give out other than candy:

Sugar-free gum
Vampire teeth
Halloween stickers
Party favor sunglasses
Small cans of PlayDoh
Noisemakers
Pencils with Halloween erasers
Halloween bouncy balls
Temporary tattoos
Small bottles of bubbles

Be creative! The “Dollar Store” is typically full of fun stuff that kids will love without rotting their teeth.

So have fun, enjoy this great time with your family, and do something scary – as long as it doesn’t involve giving kid’s cavities!!

At Shwedel Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we want to help you keep your teeth or your children’s teeth healthy during Halloween or any other time. If you have any questions feel free to give us a call at 313-292-5590. We’re here to help you!!

Dentistry From the Heart was Huge Success, AGAIN!!!

2010-10-04T09:59:00.000-07:00

Shwedel Dental, in Taylor, Michigan, held their 2^nd Annual Dentistry From the Heart event on Saturday, September 25, 2010. Dr. Steven Shwedel and his team of 40+ volunteers, including Dr. Caroline Okonkowski, Dr. Scott Shwedel, Dr. Robert Antolak and Oral Surgeon Dr. Paul Ho, provided FREE dentistry to 130 people in need. Each person received a filling or an extraction or a cleaning. In total, almost $32,000 in dental services were performed between 8:00am and 5:00pm.

“As a growing number of Americans are out of a job or just don’t have dental insurance, we felt this was a great way to help address the problem and to give back to the community,” said Dr. Shwedel.

Thanks and appreciation goes to all the businesses and groups that through their generous donations helped us make this event so successful. Benco Dental Supply, Crest/Oral B, City of Taylor DPW and Parks & Rec., Olson’s Rental, Acee Deucee and the Taylor Rotary as well as Texas Roadhouse and American Pie Pizza Buffet for providing food for the patients as well as the volunteers.

Dr. Shwedel and his volunteers have already marked their calendars in anticipation of their third annual Dentistry From the Heart event to be held on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2011.