West Maitland Dentistry Blog

The arrival of the COVID-19 virus has altered the day to day norm for most of us.  With no signs of the pandemic ending soon some patients find themselves in a dilemma. Do you put off dental care or is it safe to visit the dentist?  In this blog we’re going to address the safety of dentistry during COVID.

First though, to answer that question we need to briefly discuss what COVID-19 actually is.  COVID-19 is a highly transmissible virus respiratory virus.  It is transmitted from person to person by droplets.  These droplets can come from sneezing, coughing and talking. You can also get it from from touching your eyes, face or mouth after touching a contaminated surface.  For more information on the virus and the possible symptoms and effects the CDC is a great source of information.

With all the aerosols that we generate during dental procedures it is no wonder why there may be some hesitation on visiting the dentist.  But findings show that the transmission rate of COVID-19 in dentists is less than 1%.  Why so low?  Here some of the things our dental office and most offices are doing to make sure that rate stays low:

Some precautions were standard even before the pandemic, such as:

• Infection control to decrease transmissions of diseases.  This includes keeping up to date with OSHA standards.
• Autoclave machines to sanitize instruments using high heat.
• Barriers for items that cannot be placed in high heat.  In these situations we cover items in disposable, one time use plastic barriers.  The items are still disinfected before and after barrier placement.
• Universal protocols where we treat every patient as if they have a transmissible disease regardless of what their health history states.

With the pandemic though we have implemented some new protocols such as:

• Daily temperature checks of both patients and staff members.
• Pre-screening questions before entering the office.
• Limiting patients in our waiting room.
• Socially distancing patients in two separate waiting areas.
• The removal of sharable objects in our waiting room, such as the coffee bar, books, games, remote controls.
• Requiring face masks for all patients entering the office and building.
• The use of respirators and face shields for our staff.
• Implementing aerosol minimizing techniques or devices:
• Isolation device that isolate the tooth (teeth) being worked on from the rest the mouth.
• Suction devices that remove aerosols before they leave the patients mouth.
• Cleaning patients teeth with hand instruments instead of our ultrasonic machines that can produce aerosols.
• Vaccines- to help keep us and our patients safe we are undergoing the vaccination process.
• Taking continuing education courses on how to decrease transmission and the best protocols for handling the disease.

There are still things you can do to make sure you have a safe visit, some of these include:

• Wear a mask at all times until told to remove it.
• If you have any COVID like symptoms stay home.
• Use hand sanitizer before and after your appointment.
• Consider the COVID vaccine if possible.

When looking at all the facts remember that prolonging dental exams can lead to worsening oral health.  Also, since everyone’s medical history is different contact your medical doctor if you have any concerns about the safety of dentistry during COVID when it comes to your health conditions.

It’s that day! The day when you or your child get’s their braces off.  The excitement of straight teeth is quickly replaced by dismay as you see some white spots on the teeth.  If this has happened to you, you’re not alone!  White spots on teeth after braces is unfortunately a common problem.  Don’t worry though, we’re here to discuss what causes them and how to prevent and fix them.

What are white spots?

These noticeable discolored areas of the tooth are actually decalcifications.  This happens when the minerals that make up your teeth leach out, causing a white and chalky appearance.

What Causes Them?

There are several different reasons and ways teeth become demineralized.  Some common ones are:

• Start of aCavity: If plaque stays on the tooth surface, the acid produced by bacteria living in the plaque starts demineralizing the tooth.  If the plaque is not removed it eventually will turn into a cavity.  This leads to the white spots to start turning yellow and brown.
• Braces: If you or your child cannot brush well around the braces again plaque accumulation start those white spots formations.
• As a child too much or little fluoride, high fevers or medications (such as certain antibiotics) can cause the enamel not to be formed properly.
• During pregnancy lack of vitamins, sickness and certain medications can the teeth that are forming in the baby to become discolored.

How to prevent them?

Removing and reducing plaque and acidic environments in the mouth aid to stop the beginning of these spots, especially when having orthodontic treatment.  This means brushing well with a fluoridated toothpaste as well as flossing regularly.  A mouth rinse with fluoride also aids in the prevention of these white spots.

For tips on how much fluoride to use on your child, check out theAmerican Dental Association’s recommended guidelines.

Treatment Options

There are several treatment options that often can be non-invasive for these unsightly spots.  Some of these options are treating the teeth with fluoride to try to remineralize that soft tooth structure.  Another option can be using a resin infiltrate, similar to a filling material, to help rebuild the missing tooth structure.  If the white spots are severe, more invasive options may be necessary such as fillings or veneers.

Contact our office to request a consultation if you are dealing with white spots on your teeth!

I can’t believe it’s already our 2nd anniversary of opening my dental practice.  It has definitely

gone by in a whirlwind! Check out some things that have happened in the last two years.

When I started the practice I had just had our second daughter and now she’s turned into a

very opinionated toddler, while my older daughter went from preschool to being in

Kindergarten! Since then we’ve also survived  pseudo-hurricanes and a pandemic!

Our strive to make dentistry affordable has grown by opting to go in network with several

insurance providers to help lower the out of pocket costs for our patients.

In these past two years we’ve committed to helping and being present in our community. Some ways we

achieved this is with events such as hosting our Halloween Candy Buy Back or participating in

health fairs. Some of my favorite community events over the last two years were speaking

engagements. Whether it was at elementary, middle and high schools, with the Maitland

Chamber of Commerce or for local businesses, it’s been a pleasure to share my knowledge in

oral health with Maitland and the surrounding communities.

Every year it seems like our technology has grown with us as well. This year we decided to say

goodbye to the goop when we purchased a scanner for the mouth. Our new scanner allows us

to scan our patients mouths and make virtual, 3D models. We can use these models to track

any wear or gum loss. It also gives us the opportunity now to send our cases to laboratories in

a matter of minutes rather than being traditionally mailed. We can even show you simulations of

what your teeth would look like after corrected with Invisalign®!

To celebrate our 2nd anniversary of opening and as a token of my appreciation to all of our loyal and wonderful

patients, we are offering a free whitening kit when you refer a friend, family member or

coworker to the practice for the next month.

It’s really an honor to be part of the Maitland and surrounding areas and I look forward to

serving this community for many years to come!

Thinking of straightening your teeth but don’t like the idea of metal in your mouth?  Invisalign®  treatment may be the right option for you then!  I’ve listed some common questions I receive from patients before they start the Invisalign process.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is an orthodontic system for gradually moving teeth with series of customized removable plastic aligners.  The aligners are thin and fit snug around your teeth.  The aligners, in most cases, replace the need for traditional metal braces.

Who can wear them?

Invisalign is great for teenagers and adults.  Compliant wear can help obtain a healthier and straighter smile.  During your initial consultation we can determine whether it is a good option for you or if traditional braces is a better idea.

How does the process work?

Your first visit is a consultation.  We offer either virtual or in person consultations.  At this appointment we also take any records that may be needed, such as x-rays, photographs and a virtual scan of your teeth.  The virtual scan will make a 3D computerized model which will aid in determining possible results that can be obtained from the treatment.

After this first consultation, I take all the information to map out a customized digital treatment plan for a step by step transformation of your smile.  Once approved we will let you know when we receive your aligners.  You then will come back into the office and we will make sure that your aligners fit well and are comfortable.

How does wearing them work?

In order for tooth movement to occur we recommend that our patients wear the aligners 20 to 22 hours a day.  You will change out your set of aligners every week or two weeks depending on your customized plan.  Periodically you will have routine visits with Dr. Dhaliwal to check how your teeth are moving and to make sure the aligners are still fitting well.

How long will your treatment take?

Although you may be able to see some changes to your teeth in the first few weeks, most cases take on average 12-18 months.  Depending on how simple or complex your treatment needs are it may take less or more time.

From what material are Invisalign aligners made?

Invisalign aligners are a clear flexible plastic.  They are FDA approved and do not contain BPA, latex or gluten.

What are the advantages of Invisalign over traditional braces?

The most obvious advantage of Invisalign is the cosmetic ability to move your teeth without having metal showing.  But just as important if not more is having the ability to brush and floss easier than with traditional braces.  Since there are no wires to trap food and debris there is a less likely chance of getting gingivitis or a cavity .  Finally having the ability to remove those aligners means you don’t have to give up some of your favorite foods that are typically avoided with braces.

Why should I straighten my teeth?

Liking how your teeth look is extremely important but it is not the only factor when it comes to recommending teeth straightening.  One of the key factors is taking in consideration problems that can occur from a misaligned bite.  An uneven bite can lead to wear on teeth, fractured teeth, issues with the jaw joint and tooth pain.

Straight teeth are easier to clean, lessening the chances of developing gingivitis and periodontal disease.  Making your teeth easier to clean can also help prevent cavities as well.

What happens after you’re done with Invisalign?

Just like any orthodontic treatment, retainers are a must to prevent teeth shifting. The retainers will help keep your teeth from shifting back to what they were before.  Nightly wear of retainers is recommended after completion of your Invisalign.

If you have any questions about your straightening your teeth and Invisalign, check out the Invisalign website or for a free consultation contact us!

As your child goes back to school, make sure there are no distractions this year, such as teeth!   Did you know that dental health could have a big impact in the classroom?  One study points out that unplanned dental care for children 5-17 equals 34 million school hours lost a year!  So now that we’re back to school, help prevent those lost school hours by introducing your child to the dentist if you haven’t already.  To help do so, here are some tips to make sure your child’s dental visit is a pleasant one!

Prepare, Prepare, Prepare

Role play: The week leading up to your child’s first visit have fun with them by pretending to be at the dentist.  You can act as the dentist and your child the patient.  Then have fun with it and switch the roles.  This gives your child a sense of control not to mention the giggles it creates!  Be sure to role play some common procedures your child will encounter.  Some things to act out are: taking x-rays, having a dental exam, cleaning the teeth, using suction, flossing and putting on fluoride.

Terminology: When you role play try using age appropriate words and descriptions.  Some ways we explain common procedures are:

• Taking x-rays: “taking pictures”
• Exam: “counting teeth”
• Explorer: “tooth counter”
• Cavities/bacteria: “sugar bugs”
• Polishing/Cleaning: “tickler or tickling toothbrush”
• Suction: “Mr. Thirsty or vacuum”
• Air/water: “squirt or water gun”
• Fluoride: “vitamins”

Read to them: **Dental themed children books are great tools to prepare your child.  Reading these books ahead of their dental appointment can help them not only hear but also see what to expect. Two of my and my children’s favorites are The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist by Stan and Jan Berenstain and Just Going to the Dentist (Little Critter) by Mercer Mayer.

Make Sure They are Well Rested

If your child still naps, try not to schedule their dental visit around that time.  Tiredness and crankiness often go hand in hand!

Feed Them

A hungry child can be a crabby child.  Try to have your child eat 30 minutes to an hour before their appointment.  After a routine visit your child won’t be able to eat or drink for 30 minutes if fluoride is placed on their teeth.  If your child is having more complex dental work done that requires numbing, they may not be able to eat for a few hours!  Having your child fed can help ensure no growling tummies or tempers at their visit.

Check Your Anxiety at the Door

It’s not uncommon for adults to have a dental phobia.  Children can often pick up and sense the anxiety of a parent.  This may lead to their becoming apprehensive as well.  But the good news is that the reverse is also true!  Having an upbeat and excited attitude about your child’s dental appointment can rub off on them.  This can help make the visit a pleasant one for all!

Monkey See, Monkey Do

Does your child have an older sibling that is used to visiting the dentist?  If so, have them observe their big sister or brother during a routine check up before their first visit.  Make sure to have a talk with the older sibling.  Have the sibling show enthusiasm and discuss how nothing hurt after the visit is over.

Keep Your Cool

If the dental office is a new environment for your child it can often be a scary one.  At the first appointment, your child is getting used to new sights, sounds and smells.  Meeting new people and often times people wearing a lot of funny things (gloves, masks, eyewear, gowns, etc) can be tough for anyone.  If your child doesn’t react well try to stay calm and let the dentist and team members take the lead.   Raising voices or threatening can often make an already stressful situation worse.  Remember that every child is different and we all have our bad days!  Sometimes it is in their best interest to reschedule at a different date and time.

Prevention

Preventing cavities can lead children to have only routine visits making their trips to the dental office easy, peasy.  Check out my previous blog with tips on good oral hygiene for your kids.

Before your child heads back to school be sure to get their mouths examined. Remember regular dental visits can prevent missed school days. Make sure the only thing bothering them this year is homework and not their teeth.  To book their appointment contact us!

In celebration of Independence Day we’re looking back at fun facts about the country’s Founding Fathers oral health.  During colonial times dentistry was very different.  For example, did you know that instead of going to the dentist you went to a barber surgeon?  The barber surgeons could not only give you a hair cut but pull your tooth as well!  Dentistry has definitely come a long way since our Founding Fathers fought for independence.  Here are some fun and interesting dental facts about the people who helped create this country!

Paul Revere

You might recognize Paul Revere as the man who rode his horse to alert the colonists that the British were coming during the Revolutionary War.  But, did you know that he was a dentist as well?  Although trained as a silversmith he also sold dentures and cleaned teeth.  It’s also thought that he was the first person to identify a body by its teeth.

John Adams

If you knew our second president during revolutionary times it may have been difficult to understand him.  Adams lost his teeth for two main reasons: he loved sweets and also he believed throwing up cured a number of diseases.  Since he refused to wear dentures it made comprehending what he said often times difficult.

Thomas Jefferson

This founding father took great care of his teeth.  He had only lost one adult tooth by the age of 81!

Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin was a brilliant Founding Father but eccentric when it came to his health.  He tried to cure his kidney stones by taking mercury pills.  The devastating effect on his teeth from the mercury led to them having to be taken out.

Avoid the fate of most of our Founding Fathers’ mouths and be sure to practice good oral hygiene and see us regularly!

The concern about COVID-19 has hit an all time high.  As we try to navigate back to our daily routines, visiting your dentist might be on your to do list.  Here at West Maitland Dentistry we are doing everything we can to minimize the spread of the disease and as always making sure we strictly adhere to the CDC/OHSA disinfection and sterilization guidelines.  Additionally we’ve implemented some more measures to ensure your dental visit is a healthy and safe one.

Some of the further precautions we are taking:

• Questionnaires: before you even enter the practice we are screening patients to see if they have any symptoms related to the virus or if they have been tested for the virus.
• Temperature checks for both patients and office staff.
• Minimizing aerosol producing procedures.  Meaning that in some cases we will use hand instruments, instead of a machine, to clean your teeth.
• The use of N95 respirators, surgical masks and face shields of staff for all procedures.
• Minimizing the amount of patients in the waiting room at one time.
• Removing sharable items such as magazines, coffee machine, water fridge and children’s toys/books.
• Sneeze guard for our front desk.
• UV light sanitization or one time use of pens/safety glasses.
• Requesting all patients use hand sanitizer when they enter our office.
• Requiring all patients were masks in the office until they are seated in the chair.

When should you reschedule your dental visit?

• Patients that are 65 and older: if you have medical concerns discuss with your physician whether it is safe for you to be seen..
• If you have any of the following symptoms: fever, sore throat, cough, GI issues or any other flu like symptoms.
• If you have been exposed to a person who has tested positive for COIVD-19, if you have tested positive within the last 10 days to COVID-19 or if you are awaiting test results.

What are some precautions you can take?

• Wear a mask upon entering and leaving the office.
• Use hand sanitizer when entering and leaving the office.
• Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly and properly.
• If you do contract the virus change out your toothbrush!

We want to remind you that we are here for you and if you have any questions or concerns about your dental visit contact us!

You have probably heard it a million times; regular dental checkups are essential to a healthy smile. In this blog, we’re giving you the 411 on why our team at West Maitland Dentistry encourages regular dental exams for our patients like you.  We’re here to answer the most common questions patients have.

Why are dental exams important?

An exam is needed to provide the best care possible. Typically, dental exams are performed by your dentist alongside a dental cleaning. Regular brushing and flossing is not enough to protect your teeth. Even the more diligent flosser can be left with plaque and tartar buildup. The only way to remove this is with the help of a professional team like West Maitland Dentistry. A thorough examination by our dentist includes visually checking for any signs of decay, damage, and oral cancer. Addressing issues at early stages can help prevent costly and invasive procedures so be sure to schedule your dental exam today!

How many times do I need to have my teeth checked?

The ADA recommends that children and adults have dental exams regularly, usually every 6 months.  Based on your dental and medical history Dr. Dhaliwal will determine what your specific regular intervals are but for most patients, twice a year is recommended. Dentists are not only concerned with fixing teeth. They aim to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy and check for anything that may otherwise have gone unnoticed.

Skipping dental appointments may not seem like a big deal, but oral issues can develop and progress extremely quickly whether or not you notice it. By keeping on top of your dental cleanings and checkups you’re doing yourself a big favor in the long run.

What does Dr. Dhaliwal check for when performing dental exams?

When Dr. Dhaliwal looks inside the mouth some things she looks for are:

• Cavities
• Gum Disease
• Infections
• Oral Cancer
• Missing or defective fillings
• Cracks in teeth
• Teeth are coming in properly in children

A study performed by the American Journal of Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics00884-9/fulltext) (AJO-DO) shows people with healthy smiles are perceived to be smarter than those with visible dental problems. Regular dental visits will not only help to keep your teeth and gums healthy but give you the confidence to show off your winning smile.

If you live or work in the greater Maitland, FL area, take that first step to great oral health by scheduling a dental appointment with West Maitland Dentistry!

Because this month is National Children’s Dental Health Month, we discuss the importance of bringing your child to the dentist early in life.  Early and routine visits for your little ones leads to a life long healthy mouth.  We’re answering some of the most common questions parents have regarding their children’s dental visits.

How early should my child see a dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child go to the dentist within 6 months of getting their first tooth and no later than their first birthday.

What is done at their first appointment?

A large part of your child’s first appointment is familiarizing them to the dental environment.  The dentist examines the mouth for not just cavities but any developmental issues as well.  Some issues we keep an eye out for are misaligned teeth, missing teeth, the eruption pattern of their teeth and signs of infections.

What are the benefits of early childhood visits?

Familiarity

Some children may need to become more familiar with the dentist before they sit in the chair.  So the earlier a child experiences the dentist, the easier it is to set them up for less anxiety for appointments later on.  Because of this, suggest your little one sits in on an older sibling’s dental visit, if they have one.

Prevention

Counseling early on prevents serious diseases later in your child’s life.  Did you know that cavities are the#1 chronic disease in children? Discuss your child’s diet, brushing techniques and habits with your dentist or dental hygienist. This will ensure that they give you tips on preventing this widespread disease.  For a little extra help getting your little ones motivated, check out our previous blog on 7 Tips to Get Your Child to Have FUN Brushing.

Early prevention includes sealing healthy teeth.  Sealants fill up the grooves of your little one’s back teeth.  As a result, this prevents food from trapping and making it easier to clean.  This means less of a chance to get cavities!

In these appointments habits that can be determintal to their mouth, such as, thumb sucking, extended pacifier use or sleeping with a bottle of milk can be discussed as well.

Celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month by setting up your little one’s first dental appointment.  Use this month also to remind your children of good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day, flossing once a day and limiting sugary snacks.  

Have children that need a little extra motivation? Print out this monthly brushing and flossing chart made by the American Dental Association.  Be sure to fill it out together!

Now that the 2020 has arrived, some of us are thinking about goals for the new year.  One of them might be to improve your smile.  When researching how to fix your smile you might run across a recently popular yet potentially dangerous trend called DIY dentistry.  Although it may seem like a cheaper option at first, the perils of DIY dentistry is huge and can lead to long term problems in your mouth.  So before you think about treating yourself we’d like to share some common complications that can occur with DIY dentistry.

Extractions

Most of us know the old tale of tying a string around a baby tooth and closing the door to pull it out.  But removing teeth before they are loose or need to come out can wreck havoc in the mouth.  Pulling a tooth early may lead to the tooth breaking and becoming infected or teeth shifting.

There are online videos out there showing you how to use pliers to pull your own tooth.   This can be extremely dangerous since most likely the tooth will break, allowing exposure of the nerve.  Attempting this can also harm the other surrounding teeth, gums and bone.  You can even break your own jaw by causing a fracture.

If it is a top tooth that is near the sinus there is a possibility of exposing your sinus.  Remember that your dentist and oral surgeon have the x-rays and training in anatomy.  We have the tools to determine and prevent complications and to treat these complications if they occur.  Trying to pull your own tooth, especially with unsterile tools, can worsen complications.

Whitening

DIY whitening can be harmful to your teeth and gums.  Harsh chemicals or abrasive materials in whitening products can strip your teeth of not only the stains but of the protective layer of the tooth called the enamel.  This can lead to increased sensitivity and cavities.  Powerful chemicals in whitening products can lead to sensitivity or burning in the gums.  It is important to consult your dentist when it comes to whitening and to look for ADA approved symbols on products.

Fillings

There are several over the counter temporary filling materials for sale out there.  These materials are to be used to cover a hole in your tooth until you can see your dentist but some people use it as a permanent option.  Using these fillings permanently is not recommended.  When you cover up the cavity you also cover up the bacteria in the cavity, allowing it to grow.  When a professional places a filling they will remove the bacteria and decayed part of the tooth first.  If the bacteria is not removed it spreads until it hits the nerve.  Eventually this leads to pain, abscesses or spread of the infection to other parts of the body.

Cleanings

In the dental aisle of your store you can find tools that look like the same tools used at your cleaning appointments.  As tempting as it is to save some money and skip your checkup and cleaning appointment and try to clean your teeth yourself this can lead to dental issues.

First, you cannot see all your teeth or see them as well as someone else who is trained to evaluate your mouth.  This makes it difficult for you to thoroughly clean your teeth.  Leaving behind tarter can lead to periodontal disease which destroys your gum tissue and bone.

Your hygienist and dentist have been trained to use their hands gently.  Cleaning your teeth too aggressively can damage your gums or teeth.

Also since most likely you do not have sterilization equipment laying around your house.  When instruments aren’t properly sterilized they can act like a breeding ground for the bacteria collected from your mouth.

Last, without an exam, underlying issues cannot be addressed.  Cavities that aren’t caught can lead to larger problems later down the road, such as infections or abscesses.

Braces

A recently popular trend is DIY braces including clear aligners and using orthodontics bands to close gaps in your teeth.  Without a trained dentist or orthodontist to supervise your treatment there is the possibility that you permanently damage your mouth. The most common damage is gum and bone loss.  Not to mention you might not get the results you want.  Moving compromised teeth can lead to premature loss of the tooth.  This case shows the dangers of DIY dentistry when using bands to close gaps in your teeth.

Removing your own braces is also dangerous if DIY.  While removing the bracket you can accidentally remove part of the enamel or tooth.  Also not removing the cement causes staining or food and plaque accumulation, leading to more serious issues like cavities or gum disease.

Although DIY dentistry may seem like a cheap way to take care of your teeth, it is extremely dangerous.  By trying to save a few bucks you can end up potentially spending lots of money to fix the mess up.  The best way to take care of your teeth is through proper oral hygiene and visiting your dentist.