Lets start with addressing problems in children who are still growing. Treatment in these people is usually call Interceptive Orthodontics. These treatments are unfortunately becoming generally a lost art. Much time is involved in analysing records and findings that there are not very many dentists and even orthodontists that give this valuable choice of treatment and instead "wait" until all the growth is finished and the adult teeth are completely in. Unfortunately, that means often that any treatment later will be more complex with often permanent teeth needing to pulled, extra forces like heargears and even jaw surgeries needed to fix certain problems. One highly effective type of Interceptive Orthodontics is called Functional Orthodontics. This approach fully looks into nasal airway adequacy as a root cause of many crooked teeth/jaw problems. We have successful treated hundreds of children with early functional treatment and have had great success at achieving beautiful, big smiles without pulling teeth, surgeries or extensive comprehensive orthodontics (braces).

Ther other group of people with crooked, turned or spaced teeth are adults. Here, there are generally two types of treatment depending on the simplicity or complexity,  Limited Orthodontics and Comprehensive Orthodontics. There are basically two choices for treatment, clear aligner therapy and traditional braces. The advantages for clear aligners are many. They are not noticable, very comfortable to wear and treatment time is often less than braces. The cost is a bit more since there are laboratory costs to set up and fabricated each aligner. The teeth move into position by changing aligners every two to three weeks to get the desired result. Braces is the other choice. Clear brackets make them a lot less noticable now than the metal ones. Oral hygiene is very important with this choice as your at greator risk for cavites and gum problems with braces.

Both General Dentists and Orthodontists treat these kinds of problems. A General Dentist providing orthodontic treatment should have complete and ongoing training. An Orthodontist is a dentist specialist who has completed post graduate program in this field and limits their practice exclusively. I am a General Dentist who has been extensively trained in Orthodontics and have been treating patients for over 27 years.

Please call our office if you feel I can help! 586-263-4060

We have been overwelmed by the number of new patients we have seen! Thank you all for you referrals to the point we are so busy seeing to the needs of those coming in. Please check out our website that will inform you of our incredible dental plan. It is by far better than any "insurance' plan that you can buy anywhere. We can offer this to your group if you are in a position to offer dental benefits. It wil cover all preventative visits (2X year) cleanings, x-rays and exam an anywhere from 30-60% coverage on anything else without any maximiums, preconditions, or limits!

Check it out at www.aragonadentistry.com.

Much of the cost involved with crown care is the lab fees. Expetec Labs are assisting our office with providing high quality crowns at a much reduced rate. After seeing hundreds of cases we have submitted to them for the Value Tech Option, quite honestly I cannot see any difference in these lower cost crowns than the full price ones  we have been doing for years.

Then my office have made a strategic move to lower our costs to match our labs efforts to lower prices on typically expensive services like crown care. We now know what our "breakeven" expenses are and if it take more than one hour for crown treatment, then maybe you should see us for your dental care.

We are commiting ourselves to serve you with the very best care at reasonable prices. Please call our office if your wanting the best care at amazing prices!

Yours for Excellence care,

Dr. Sal

The technique is a proven method developed primarily in Europe during the past century. It is not being used currently for various reason, yet it is quite effective in addressing growth and development problems early in growing individuals in order to help keep treatment from becoming more involved when a person become fully at a point of not growing any longer.

This technique involves carefully addressing all growth problems includng airway problems which can greatly influence how the jaws grow or don't grow in a particular individual. Much time is involved in clearly invistigating the condition and in a non-surgical manner help direct the jaws to fully grow as genetically intented. I have many cases I have treated over the past twenty five years of my practice that we have sucessfully prevented the need for jaw surgeries, pulling permanet teeth and extensive treatment with orthodontics.

Call my office if you have a child whose teeth don't appear like they a growing in properly. 586-263-4060

1. To prevent oral cancer

2. To prevent gun disease

3. To help maintain good physical health (recent studies have linked heart attaches and stroke to gun disease resulting from poor dental hygiene)

4. To prevent tooth loss prematurely

5. To detect dental problems early

6. To maintain good oral health

7. To use your dental insurance benefits

8. To help you improve your dental hygiene at home

9. To have a bright and white smile

10. To prevent bad breath.

If dental cleanings are important to you then don't hesitate to give a call!

If you are among those who have been away from the Dentist for a while whether it be a year or 10+ years know that we are not here to judge you, but rather are here to help you get back on track and understand why you got off track in the first place. Call us today to get started on the path back to great dental health.

Let's first talk about what we normally regard as chemically induced sedation methods.

Orally prescribed methods include the taking of drugs called benzodiazepines. This chemical method works by slowing down the central nervous system by potentiating GABA transmission. These inhibitory synapses quickly sedate the individual to a sleep like state. They are not without risk in that practitioners must act as part time anesthesiologists to manage a potential rescue for those more deeply sedated in managing airway and cardiovascular complications.

IV sedation is another chemically induced method of sedation. This involves administration of a number of differing drugs through an IV that is carefully adjusted to each individual. Again, this technique is not without the same risks.

Nitrous Oxide sedation is another chemically induced method of sedation. This involves the inhalation of a mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide titrated to effect a sedated state in a particular person. Not as much risk.

Natural sedation involves the combine use of four sensory applications to induce a powerful relaxation within 5 minutes. This technique involves ingestion of GABA and L-theanine, both non-prescription natural substances with one intrinsically found in the human system and the other the main element in green tea that supports the formation of GABA in the brain.

Cranial electrotherapy stimulation (CES) is used to facilitate the intrinsic release of alpha-rhythm neurotransmitters that promote deep stages of relation and anxiolysis. Alpha frequencies are at play in the brain in stage I of the sleep cycle, a deep relaxation level that does not involve deeper levels of REM sleep.

Neuroacoustic sound utilizing binaural beat is used to sustain a neuroacoustic entrainment of brainwave activity at the alpha level of 8-12 Hz. This part is what sustains this deep relaxation level.

Black out glasses are finally used to block light from the optic nerve, resulting in a 30% increase in alpha waves in the occipital cortex of the brain.

I know all this is very technical, but as you can see, we will have very soon a natural option for effective sedation without the typical risks involved and the individual leave more energized than when they came in for their appointment!

Stay Tuned!

Disclaimer

Halitosis -- known as bad breath to most -- is an embarrassing condition that can affect anyone at anytime, and is caused by several factors. The most common causes of bad breath are preventable and easily treated, however certain medical conditions may also cause bad breath. Chronic halitosis may indicate an underlying medical concern that should be addressed by your dentist or medical doctor.

Learn about the most common reasons why you may experience bad breath, and when you should see a dentist for your halitosis.

Cause: The Food We Eat and Digestion
Photo © Shawn Marie WatsonThe food we eat can adversely affect our breath. Odors from garlic, onions, cabbage, and certain spices may result in halitosis when the suspected food is absorbed into the blood tream after digestion. When the blood has transferred to the lungs, the smell from the food is evident when you exhale.

With eating comes digestion, another cause of bad breath. Gasses produced during the digestive process may escape through your mouth, emanating the odor it produces. Poor digestion resulting in constipation and disorders of the bowel may contribute to bad breath again, from the gasses that are produced during this process.

Cause: Infrequent Brushing and Flossing

It may seem like an obvious factor, but when you examine how limited and neglected brushing and flossing habits contributes to bad breath, the cause hits you like a brick wall -- decaying food particles and bacteria trapped in your mouth.

When the food we eat is left behind either because it is trapped in hard to reach places such as the wisdom teeth, the tiny hair-like follicles on the tongue, or simply because brushing and flossing is neglected, it begins to decay in your mouth. The human mouth is 98.6 F, an ideal temperature for food to begin to decompose. When you exhale, the odor from the decomposing food, bacteria, and plaque causes the offensive odor.

Cause: Oral Diseases and Infections

Periodontal disease is directly related to improper or neglected brushing and flossing. One major sign of this potentially irreversible oral disease is halitosis. The accumulation of plaque, bacteria, and decomposing food particles contribute to bad breath as they destroy the delicate tissue that surrounds our teeth. The same bacteria that cause gum disease, tooth decay, and abscessed teeth are also responsible for halitosis.

Cause: Dry Mouth

Xerostomia is a condition that causes a decrease in the production of saliva, resulting in a dry mouth. Several factors cause xerostomia, some of which may need to be treated by your doctor. Saliva is necessary to provide lubrication the mouth to allow for proper chewing and swallowing. Saliva naturally cleanses the mouth and helps prevent cavities. If you are experiencing dry mouth, bad breath may occur because the food particles remain trapped in the mouth to rot and cause the unpleasant smell when you exhale.

Cause: Cigarette Smoking

The effects of smoking on our overall health and wellness are frightening. Over 4,000 chemicals have been identified in cigarettes, 200 of which are poisonous. Lung cancer and COPD are obvious diseases that come to mind when you consider the health risk associated with the habit. But did you know smoking is also a major cause of periodontal disease? How does this relate to halitosis you ask? The smoke produced from a cigarette is inhaled into the lungs, and then exhaled through the nose and mouth. This causes an immediate effect on your breath because the chemicals and residue from the smoke remain in your mouth and airways. Continued use of cigarettes contribute to gum disease, a major cause of bad breath.

Cause: Medical Conditions

Unexplained or chronic bad breath may be an indication of an underlying medical condition or disease. Ketoacidosis occurs in diabetics when there is insufficient glucose in the blood for the body to use as energy. An obvious sign of this is a fruity-smelling odor in the breath. People with eating disorders may experience halitosis, as well as frequent dieters. Breath that has a fishy smell or is reminiscent of urine or ammonia may be obvious in people with chronic kidney failure. After prolonged vomiting or if an obstruction is in the bowel, the breath may smell like feces. Sinusitis and lung infections also cause bad breath. Children with a foreign body trapped in their nose may experience halitosis. If suspected, see your doctor.

Treating and Preventing Bad Breath

In order to treat your bad breath, the root cause of halitosis needs to be identified. Visit your dentist if you experience chronic bad breath (in other words bad breath that never goes away).

Over-the-counter breath fresheners such as gum, mints, breath strips, breath sprays, and certain mouth rinses will only provide a temporary relief from bad breath. These general guidelines will assist you in managing, and hopefully eliminating, your experience with bad breath.

Xylitol is an exciting ingredient that can make preventing dental disease easy and tasty. Try this out: use your tongue to feel the plaque on the inside of your lower front teeth. Feel how fuzzy they feel? Chew 100% Xylitol sweetened gum after meals and snacks and in one day you will feel a reduction in the plaque build up or the fuzziness of your teeth.

Happy Chewing!

This is from the vitamin D concil:

Current research has implicated vitamin D deficiency as a major factor in the pathology of at least 17 varieties of cancer as well as heart disease, stroke, hypertension, autoimmune diseases, diabetes, depression, chronic pain, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, muscle weakness, muscle wasting, birth defects, periodontal disease, and more.

It is imperative that you request a vitamin D blood test profile from your primary physician. Until you you specificaaly know exactly what your profile is, you will not know if you need to suppliment with Vitamin D.

What is Snap-On Smile?

Snap-On Smile was invented by a dentist who realized that not everyone can afford many thousands of dollars to get a Hollywood smile make-over.

Snap-on Smile's unique, proprietary formula of hi-tech dental resin make it very thin yet extremely strong. It fits right over your own teeth to give you a beautiful, natural looking smile -- even if you have stains, chips, gaps or missing teeth.

And for many people, Snap-On Smile can be life changing. It gives back the confidence to smile. Thousands of people worldwide have already experienced the unique benefits of Snap-On Smile.

How long will my Snap-On Smile last?

Snap-On Smile comes with a 12 month limited warranty against manufacturing defects. With proper care, your Snap-On Smile can last from 2 to 5 years. Just follow the Snap-On Smile dentist's cleaning instructions and you'll enjoy millions of smiles with Snap-On Smile...
No shots.
No drilling.
No adhesives.

How do I get my Snap-On Smile?

You start the process by calling us at 263-4060.
Check out our Smile Galley link of a recent example at:

http://www.aragonadentistry.com/gallery.html

At your first visit the Snap-On Smile we will examine your teeth, decide if you are a candidate for Snap-on Smile and, if so, discuss whether you wish to have Snap-On Smile for your upper or lower arch. We then take an impression of your teeth. Don't worry... there is no pain, no shots and no drilling involved! Since each Snap-On Smile is custom made, we will send your impression to the Den-Mat ™studio to have yours made just for you.

At your second visit approximately 3 weeks later, the dentist will fit your Snap-On Smile and make any minor adjustments needed. You'll then be shown how to pop your new smile in and out, plus how to keep it looking good.

Remember, you can eat with it, drink with it, and wear it all day every day. (Just remove it when you sleep).

How much does Snap-On Smile cost?

A fraction of the price of things like veneers, crowns & bridges. Snap-On Smile is the only removable, affordable alternative to traditional smile make-over solutions.
And very affordable with payments as low as $ 49
That's right, and we'll even spread the total cost for you with our easy monthly payment plan. Call us today 263-4060!

"Then they went forward and sent me to an ear, nose and throat specialist and finally had the lump removed," said Fish. Fish said the tumor was the size of a large grape, and it was malignant. Fish was diagnosed with stage 4 oral cancer.

"I was horrified," said Fish. "They say you should never get on the Internet. The statistics were not in my favor at that point." Experts said oral cancer includes cancers of the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses and throat. Stage four is the most advanced stage.

Fish had surgery, 32 radiation treatments and three cycles of chemotherapy. The treatments left her fatigued and suffering multiple side effects.

"I was unable to swallow after a period of time. I had burns, second- or third-degree burns, on my neck. It was the scariest moment or time in my life to say the least."

Like most people, Fish had assumed oral cancer was something older men got, not 34-year-old women. "When I was in dental school, it was considered an 'old man's' disease," said Dr. Jed Jacobson, the chief science officer for Delta Dental of Michigan. But Jacobson said oral cancer trends are changing. "Two groups in which oral cancer is increasing is women and our younger Americans," said Jacobson. Experts said smoking, chewing tobacco and drinking too much alcohol are the major risk factors for oral cancer, but about 25 percent of people being diagnosed, especially younger people, don't smoke or drink. Experts believe the human papillomavirus, or HPV, may be to blame.

"They have located and found HPV, human papillomavirus 16 and 18, in those tissues, and so there is a strong association in that 25 percent that doesn't have the traditional factors," said Jacobson.

A study in the New England Journal of Medicine found people infected with HPV were 32 times more likely to develop cancer of the tonsils or tongue than those who did not have the virus. That's a concern because HPV is incredibly common. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, at least 50 percent of sexually active men and women will be infected at some point in their lives. Some estimates put that number as high as 80 percent in women.

There is a vaccine that protects against the most common strains of HPV. It's currently recommended for girls and women age 9 to 26. It's also been approved for use in boys and men age 9 to 26.

"There's a level of embarrassment, if you will, to talk about a virus that's passed through sexual activity, but that's the reality, and regardless of how uncomfortable the conversation may be, we have to educate the public to the risks," said Jacobson.

Experts said every patient should be screened for oral cancer at least once a year during their regular dental checkup. "The hygienist or dentist will grasp the tongue with a piece of gauze and very carefully pull the tongue out and thoroughly examine the top of the tongue and the sides of the tongue, as well as laying a tongue blade or mouth mirror on the tongue and have the patient phonate the word 'ahh,' so that the dentist and hygienist can visualize back to the throat," said Jacobson. Doctors said the symptoms of oral cancer include red or white spots in the mouth or on the lips or tongue that don't heal, any swelling, lumps, bumps or sores that don't go away in two weeks, a lump in the neck, unexplained bleeding, numbness, or tenderness in the mouth, difficulty chewing or swallowing, and hoarseness, chronic sore throat, ear pain or weight loss.

Fish was a smoker when she was diagnosed with oral cancer. She tested negative for HPV, but she wants to warn people to take oral cancer seriously. She hopes sharing her experience with the disease will help save someone else. "More and more younger people are being diagnosed with this atrocious, hideous disease, and I think that it is important that people are aware of the risk factors, and not just drinking and smoking," said Fish. After beating the odds, Fish now has a 5-year-old son and another baby on the way.

Oral cancer is serious and 5% of cancers are oral cancer, so next time you have a dental exam make sure you ask for oral cancer screening.

As if bleeding gums, bad breath, tooth loss and heart disease weren't enough reasons to treat gum disease now we can add increased risk of cancer to the list of reasons to treat and manage gum disease. If you think you may have gum disease don't wait to get it checked out. The longer you put off treatment the more damage can be done and now we know you are risking more than just y our teeth you are risking your health!

Imagine being able to accomplish all your dental care in as little as one or two relaxing appointments. With no more anxiety! And you will have little or no memory of the treatment! It doesn't matter whether it's been 5, 10 or 20 years since your last dental visit. We can help you! We completely understand your apprehensions about going to the dentist!

Welcome to a Whole New World of Comfort for Dental Patients No more anxiety! That's right, you no longer have to be afraid of anything when it comes to your dental care !! Our unique "Conscious Sedation" system makes dentistry comfortable, quick and affordable! We've contracted a dentist trained in this procedure to relieve you from your dental anxieties in VERY SAFE way. Let our expertise help you enjoy a new smile! Whether you are "mildly afraid," "terrified", or simply don't seem to have time in your busy schedule to get all your dental work done,"Conscious Sedation" is exactly what you've been waiting for all these years! Now you can forget about any negative dental experience you've ever had. Relax. And feel refreshed, with your beautiful new smile! It's truly that easy! Even our "most apprehensive" and "very busy" patients are ecstatic with the "RESULTS" they get here!! Many of our patients from their first sedation remark, "Gee, I don't mind going to after all! "We can do this for you!!

Call us today out if you're a candidate complete comfort "Conscious Sedation" Dentistry.

What Does The Procedure Involve? This unique, minimally invasive procedure can usually be completed in just one office visit. First, an initial exam will determine if you are a candidate for dental implants, which require a sufficient base of jaw bone for their placement. If we decide to do this relatively trouble-free procedure, you'll be given mild anesthesia and we'll gently insert several dental implants into your jaw. Once secure, we will adjust your denture so that it connects with your new implants. The result is that your lower denture is now firmly in place and you can speak and eat with confidence.

A Better Solution for Common Denture Problems
We have found that some denture wearers suffer physical discomfort, unpleasant breath, and even embarrassment when their dentures move unexpectedly during speaking or chewing. Using mini dental implants to stabilize loose or poorly fitting lower dentures often brings relief and solves these common problems.

What Does The Procedure Involve?
This unique, minimally invasive procedure can usually be completed in just one office visit. First, an initial exam will determine if you are a candidate for dental implants, which require a sufficient base of jaw bone for their placement. If we decide to do this relatively trouble-free procedure, you'll be given mild anesthesia and we'll gently insert several dental implants into your front lower jaw. Once secure, we will adjust your denture so that it connects with your new implants. The result is that your lower denture is now firmly in place and you can speak and eat with confidence.

Proper Care of Mini Dental Implants for Dentures
Please understand that your mini dental implants, just like natural teeth, are subject to damage from natural causes, including osteoporosis, poor oral hygiene, wear and tear attrition, poor health, heavy, stressful biting habits, and lack of follow-up dental maintenance care. As always, proper diet, good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are the keys to extending the life of yourdental implant and your winning smile.

Proper Care of Mini Dental Implants for Dentures! Please understand that your mini dental implants, just like natural teeth, are subject to damage from natural causes, including osteoporosis, poor oral hygiene, wear and tear attrition, poor health, heavy, stressful biting habits, and lack of follow-up dental maintenance care. As always, proper diet, good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are the keys to extending the life of your dental implant and your winning smile.

So if your denture is loose and are having a hard time eating the foods you love to eat, mini dental implants might be the solution for you.

Plaque removal is essental for a healthy, beautiful smile, the accumilation of plaque on teeth can lead to gingivitis (gum inflammation) or other conditions such as periodontitis (gum and bone disease). The Rota-Dent provides a choice of 3 different brush tips depending on the specific cleaning needs. The Rota-Dent is not like any other mechanical toothbrushes, with true rotary action and patented microfilament technology are the reasons the Rota-Dent is more effective in plaqu removal than a manual or any other mechanical toothbrushes and its also twice as fast. You can use the Rota-Dent with or without toothbrush. Also a regular tooth prush will only clean the smmoth surfaces of the teeth, and will not clean in between, or the small grooves and pit of your teeth and gun disease and tooth decay starts in those areas.

Clincial studies have show the value of the Rota-Dent in controlling dental plaque, reducing stains, reducing bleeding gums, and cleaning braces and implants. Clincial studies also show that the Rota-Dent helps control dental plaque and inflimmation associated with gingivitis. These studies have proven that The Rota-Dent is effective in removing plaque and controlling gum disease. Therefore, the Rota-Dent will help prevent premature failure to crowns, bridges and partials.

If you are ready to switch to a toothbrush that is more effective at cleaning your teeth, feel free to give us a call or ask on your next appointment.

Progressive inflammation of tissues in the central nervous system, resulting in degeneration of nerve cells, is thought to play a role in the development of dementia.1 Epidemiologic studies suggest that persons with high levels of systemic inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein and pro-inflammatory cytokines, are at higher risk of dementia than those with lower levels. In addition, use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) may lower the risk of dementia. There are many potential sources of chronic inflammation, including periodontal diseases. Periodontal diseases are among the most prevalent diseases affecting the population. Among adults, 75% have a mild form (gingivitis), and approximately 40% have moderate or severe periodontitis.

Within the past several years, an increasing number of studies have reported associations between oral health status and measures of impaired cognition in community-dwelling older adults.2-7 In the U.S. National Health and Examination Surveys (NHANES) conducted in 1988-1994 and in 2001-2002,2-4 participants underwent cognitive testing to measure memory, response speed, attention, and coordination. Persons with lower scores on these cognitive tests were more likely to have a greater extent of sites with attachment loss and probing pocket depth, or lack teeth altogether, compared to persons with higher scores. In addition, individuals with high serum levels of antibody to P. gingivalis, a common periodontal bacterium, performed poorly on verbal recall and subtraction tasks.2 Other studies found lack of teeth was associated with poor cognitive function5,6 and higher incidence of dementia.7 In the current study, increased risk of cognitive impairment was independently related to number of teeth lost and progression of periodontal disease during a 32-year follow-up.

Since all of these studies have been observational, it cannot be determined yet if periodontal disease directly causes or worsens cognitive impairment, or what biologic mechanisms are responsible for the associations. Several mechanisms have been proposed and are the focus of current research.

Periodontal disease as a source of inflammatory factors

Periodontitis is a chronic condition that exposes a patient to pro-inflammatory factors over the long term. Periodontal pathogens that accumulate in plaque on the teeth secrete lipopolysaccharide, an endotoxin that activates macrophages to produce pro-inflammatory cytokines. In turn, these cytokines enter the circulation and induce the host response through several pathways. In addition, the bacteria themselves and their components can gain access to the systemic circulation and invade non-oral tissues. Thus, bacteria and inflammatory mediators that originate in the oral cavity may contribute to and enhance inflammatory processes in the brain that increase the risk of dementia.

Periodontal disease as a marker for underlying inflammatory processes that lead to cognitive impairment

The association between periodontal disease and cognitive impairment may also reflect an indirect biologic mechanism in which periodontitis and dementia are two separate disease outcomes that arise from an underlying chronic inflammation. Both diseases have several common risk factors that can influence the immune system and enhance inflammation, including smoking, depression, and diabetes. In both periodontitis and dementia, specific genotypes of the interleukin family of cytokines have been associated with increased disease risk and led to the hypothesis that some individuals have a hyper-inflammatory response phenotype. A number of diseases with an inflammatory component -- cardiovascular disease, diabetes, periodontal disease, and dementia -- might then tend to cluster in individuals with such a phenotype.

Dr. Elizabeth (Krall) Kaye is a professor and director of the epidemiology division in the Department of Health Policy & Health Services Research at Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine. Her research focuses on the association of skeletal bone density to tooth retention in the elderly, genetic and environmental influences on bone and teeth, and smoking cessation. She holds an MPH and PhD from the University of Pittsburgh.

References

1. Kamer AR, Craig RG, Dasanayake AP, Brys M, Glodzik-Sobanska L, deLeon MJ. Inflammation and Alzheimer's disease: possible role of periodontal diseases. Alzheimer's Dementia 2008; 4:242-250.

2. Noble JM, Borrell LN, Papapanou PN, Elkind MSV, Scarmeas N, Wright CB. Periodontitis is associated with cognitive impairment among older adults: analysis of NHANES-III. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2009; 80:1206-1211.

3. Stewart R, Sabbah W, Tsakos G, D'Aiuto F, Watt RG. Oral health and cognitive function in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III). Psychosomat Med 2008; 70:936-941.

4. Yu YH, Kuo HK. Association between cognitive function and periodontal disease in older adults. J Amer Geriatrics Soc 2008; 56:1693-1697.

5. Stewart R, Hirani V. Dental health and cognitive impairment in an English National Survey Population. J Amer Geriatric Soc 2007; 55:1410-1414.

6. Grabe HJ, Schwahn C, Völzke H, et al. Tooth loss and cognitive impairment. J Clin Periodontol 2009; 36:550-557.

7. Sparks Stein P, Desrosiers M, Donegan SJ, et al. Tooth loss, dementia, and neuropathology in the Nun Study. J Amer Dent Assoc 2007; 138:1314-1322.

or do you have notches at the gum line?

Take a close look if you have either of these conditions in your mouth you are probably clenching or grinding your teeth without even knowing it. There are things that you can do to protect your teeth and your jaw joints from the enormous pressure you are putting on them but you need to ask your dentist which is right for you. Putting off asking increases the amount of irreversible damage that is done so don't wait if you even think it's possible that you are a secret grinder. In fact if you are not sure the next time you are in the office ask! The teeth you save will be your own.

Snap-On Smile™ is a patent method for those situations where your not sure of doing anything irreversable and totally non-invasive to wear a smile change you'd like to live with for a while. It is a dental devise in which is fabricated to fit over your existing teeth to change shapes, color, appearance and facial support to help you in any cosmetic decision you make about your current condition. And if your honest, you may be one of nearly 50% of us are not completely happy with our smiles. This effects everything from your self confidence to relationships to just about everything that you value in your life. So we have made this very easy, no shots, not drilling on your teeth and time that you need to see the difference this may make in your life.

Why wait, call us to discuss this amazing option! 586-263-4060

Dental crowns also known as "dental caps" or "tooth caps" can be made from metal, gold or other metal alloys, ceramic materials such as porcelain, or a combination of both. All metal dental crowns. / "Gold" dental crowns.
Some dental crowns are made entirely of metal. The classic metal dental crown is one made of gold, or more precisely a gold alloy. Over the decades a variety of different metal alloys have been used in making dental crowns. Some of these metals are silver in color rather than yellow like gold.
Having a gold dental crown made can be an excellent choice. Here are some reasons why:
A) Because of its physical properties, dentists find gold to be a very workable metal. This characteristic helps a dentist to be able to achieve a very precise fit with the crown.

B) Since they are metal through and through, gold crowns withstand biting and chewing forces well. They will not chip. It would be uncharacteristic for a gold crown to break. Of all of the types of dental crowns, gold crowns probably have the greatest potential for lasting the longest.

C) Although they are very strong, the wear rate of a gold crown is about the same as tooth enamel. This means that a gold dental crown won't create excessive wear on the teeth it opposes (the teeth it bites against). Metal crowns are usually placed on those teeth that are not overly visible when a person smiles (i.e., molars). If you are considering a gold crown take our advice on this point, before you give your dentist the go ahead on making the crown check with your spouse first. They're the one who will be looking at your smile and your new dental crown the most.

Full-porcelain dental crowns.
Some dental crowns are fabricated in a manner where their full thickness is porcelain. These crowns can possess a translucency that makes them the most cosmetically pleasing of all of the different types of dental crowns. Although they can be very life like in appearance, the overall strength of all-porcelain dental crowns is less than other types of crowns. While porcelain crowns were not as strong in the past their strength has improved significantly over the last few years. It has been one of the best ways to improve your smile and have life like teeth.

Some of the advantages of full porcelain crowns:

1. Cosmetic appearance ( very closely resemblance of your own teeth)

2. With metal crowns you can see a dark edge underneath the tooth's gum line however with porcelain crowns you can't because there is not metal.

3. With porcelain crowns you can have translucency and the teeth would look very natural where as with metal crowns there would not be that translucency.

So if you had a choice between crowns that are fused to metal and crowns that are all porcelain wouldn't you choose the one resembles your own teeth more closely. FULL PORCELAIN CROWNS IS THE WAY!!

If you find your mouth to be excessively dry start by sipping water more frequently through out the day you may just not be taking in enough fluids. If that doesn't do the trick try chewing sugarless gum or using sugarless lozenges. Avoid acidic or sugary foods and mouth rinses that contain alcohol, if you smoke now is the time to quit as smoking makes the mouth drier. Taking over the counter antihistamines or decongestants can also cause and increase in dryness. Be sure to brush with a fluoridated toothpaste, floss and use a fluoride mouth rinse to help prevent decay and keep the gums healthy. Try adding a room humidifier at night as it can be of great help. There are over the counter saliva substitutes that can also be used. If you think one of your medications may be the culprit let your doctor know, he/she may be able to adjust the dose or even switch you to a different medication. If that is not possible keep these tips in mind to help make living with a dry mouth bearable.

"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves for the rights of those who are devestated. Speak up and think about their situation defend the rights of the poor and needy." ~ Proverbs 31:8-9 (Sal's Modern Translation)

This verse has particular meaning in that we all have opportunity to speak for those who cannot and seek justice for the poor amoung us.

Check out my recent interview on what these short term missions trips have meant to me over the years.

Sal's Interview

Well here it is the Rotadent is the best toothbrush out there. It is an effective tooth cleaner designed with the same tooth by tooth precision as a professional dental handpiece. Its cleaning action is area specific, designed to clean the hardest to reach areas and the smallest cracks or crevices.

The Rotadent™ system comes with three different types of brush tips, all designed to remove plaque from specific areas and each used in a definite manner. The flat brush tip (hollow cup) is designed to clean tooth surfaces facing your cheeks and lips and tooth surfaces facing your tongue. It's also useful for cleaning plaque on dental implants.The short cone brush tip is designed to clean areas along your gumline and under your gumline. It is also useful for cleaning all biting surfaces of your teeth.The long cone brush tip is designed to clean small or large spaces that may exist between your teeth. It is also terrific for cleaning under your "permanently" cemented bridges.

Some Additional Ideas:

Here are some additional thoughts concerning the Rotadent™: Your system comes with an extra interchangeable arm ( head) which can be used by another family member.

Happy Tooth Cleaning !!!!

This is a picture of what can happen to the teeth of someone who drinks excessive amounts of soda pop. The acid in the soda can actually erode the enamel or the outer layer of the tooth. Unfortunately in today's society soda pop is no longer an occasionally treat but rather has become a daily habit. A steady diet of soda pop is leading to an increase in tooth decay among young and old alike. And don't think you're safe because you only drink diet soda. There is just as much acid in diet soda as there is in regular soda, therefore it is just as damaging too your teeth.

Enamel erosion is caused by the acid attacking the enamel of the tooth. A typical sip of soda will result in an acidic environment for around 20 minutes! Therefore every time you take a sip you bathe your teeth in acid for 20 minutes. Many people will sip on their 20 ounce soda for hours at their desk just think of how much time that is to literally dissolve the outer layer of the teeth. Don't make soda a daily habit and when you do treat yourself to a soda drink it quickly and rinse your mouth with water after to help bring your mouth back to a neutral PH.

Oh and by the way those sports drink that have also become popular with the teens are not any better they can be even more acidic than some of the most popular sodas. Remember it is acid plus sugar that causes decay so try to keep them both to a minimum.

LUMINEERS - the painless way to bring out the beautiful, healthy, natural, permanently white smile in you. LUMINEERS are custom designed to give you the beautiful smile you've always dreamed of. Unlike traditional veneers, there are no shots, no drilling of sensitive tooth structure, and no pain. They're even reversible, so you have nothing to lose and a beautiful smile to gain. Plus LUMINEERS are proven to last for over 20 years, so your beautiful smile will be with you for years and years.

The LUMINEERS Difference.

While traditional veneers involve a much longer, more painful process that can take months, LUMINEERS placement is quick and painless. The traditional veneers are sometimes referred to as crowns or caps. There porcelain sleeves are placed over teeth through a process that can demand extensive and irreversible cutting away of healthy tooth structure. This can require multiple painful shots and many visits to the dentist with long appointments. Once teeth have been cut away, temporary crowns are placed on the teeth while the traditional veneers are made, which can take months. The temporaries are then removed, potentially requiring shots again, and the permanent veneers are placed. Sometimes additional appointments are required to ensure that bite is correct. In contract to traditional veneers, LUMINEERS don't require shots or drilling of sensitive tooth structure, and that means no pain. That's because LUMINEERS are ultra-thin so they can be applied seamlessly over your existing teeth in only two easy visits to your dentist.

What would you like to change about your smile? Crooked teeth, cheeped teeth, a Hollywood smile, spaces between your teeth, discolored teeth? LUMINEERS can do all that and so much more for you. Are LUMINEERS right for you? Changes are yes, the next time you come to see us or you would like to learn more about LUMINEERS feel free to give us a all at 586-263-4060.

Check out this amazing interview of Jill and Jenna as they talk about how excited they are about their new smile. We accomplished these results in less than one year with removing any permanent teeth. Check it out at:

Jill & Jenna

Cigarette smoking and smokeless tobacco use result in oral lesions including oral cancer, periodontal (gum) disease, an increased risk of tooth decay, and tooth loss. Smokers experience more periodontal disease and more severe forms of periodontal disease than non smokers, and in young people it is a risk factor for aggressive destructive periodontal disease. To make matters worse the response to periodontal therapy is less favorable in smoker.

Smokeless tobacco is associated with an increase in tooth decay. Smokeless tobacco contains high levels of sugar and is typically held in one place for long periods of time. Smokers have an increase in tooth decay also due to a decrease in salivary flow (dryer mouth). And just think I haven't even mentioned what the staining does to the appearance of your teeth!

If you are a tobacco user smoker or smokeless there are many products that can help you quit! Your dentist can be a great resource for accessing these products as some require a prescription. They can also be a great source of support and encouragement. Many people make more than one attempt at quitting before they are successful so don't give up. Never quit quitting!

Unlike most diseases that give us early warning signs, gum disease progresses silently, often without pain. It may develop slowly or progress quite rapidly. Some of the symptoms of gum disease include bad breath that won't go away, red or swollen gums, tender or bleeding gums, painful chewing, loose teeth and sensitive teeth.

You might be asking yourself, well what can I do to prevent gum disease? Here are some things you can do to prevent periodontal diseases: Brush your teeth twice a day (with a fluoride toothpaste), floss every day, visit the dentist routinely for a check-up and professional cleaning, eat a well balanced diet and don't use tobacco products.

There is good news dentists and physicians can in many cases detect tissue changes in the early caner stages or even the precancer stage. Many times patient disregard the early signs as not worrisome. It is imperative that you have any sore or discolored area checked if it doesn't go away with in 14 days!!!

Risk factors for oral cancer:

40 years of age or older

Tobacco use

Heavy alcohol use

Historically 75% of those diagnosed who were age 50 or older were tobacco users. Adding alcohol to tobacco use increases the risk 15 times.

The newest risk factor is HPV(Human Papiloma Virus) it is the same virus that causes 90% of all cervical cancer in women.

Many dentists are using some newer technology to help find oral cancer at it's earliest stages so get your oral cancer screening even those of you who don't have teeth are at risk for oral cancer.

Porcelain veneers are a great way to transform your smile.

You might be asking yourself well what are porcelain veneers and how can transform my smile? Veneers are shells of porcelain that are bonded to the front of teeth to create a cosmetic improvement and sometimes a bite improvement. Porcelain veneers have successfully improved smiles by making dark teeth look lighter and healthier looking. They can make yellow teeth permanently whiter and gray stained teeth look much more natural. Porcelain veneers can make crooked teeth look straight in just a few days. You can look and feel more confident, more professional and have a wonderfully natural looking smile.

Veneers can correct:

- Uneven or crooked teeth that have shapes that are out of proportion.

- Stained teeth that have gray color spaces between teeth

- Too much gum when you smile

- Yellow teeth that are dark and cannot be whitened or bleached

- Teeth that are sensitive can be made much less sensitive

- Worn down teeth that make you look old

What are some of the advantages to porcelain veneers?

There are many advantages of getting porcelain veneers. First and foremost they will give your teeth a natural and healthy appearance. Porcelain veneers have an advantage over other cosmetic bonding techniques since they are translucent and have a glass like appearance that is natural looking.The surface of your tooth is duplicated to give a more natural dental enamel. Porcelain is a ceramic heat fired and does not pick up stains. If there is a stain, it can be polished off easily during a normal cleaning.

Porcelain veneers could be the perfect solution for your smile, ask us about a cosmetic consultation.

Sealants are easy to place and require no drilling or numbing! We simply clean and the tooth and place a preparing solution which we rinse off and then we dry the tooth. Finally we squirt a filler material into the deep grooves of the tooth and shine a special light to harden the material and you are all set.

When should these sealants be placed you might ask. They are best placed shortly after the teeth are completely visible in the mouth. The very first permanent back tooth or molar usually erupts around the age of six. These first permanent molars come in behind all of the baby teeth which are usually in place by around age two years.

So if your child has his/her permanent molars in you may want to ask about dental sealants as a way to prevent unnecessary cavities.

According to most recent university studies....everything. Treating gum disease now is more than saving your teeth, it is about reducing inflamatory mediators that are in play with heart disease and brain defects like Alzimer's disease. Some studies show a strong correlation between dental plaque and calculus build up in the mouth and arterial thickening and build up involved in cardiovascular disease. "Inflamation load" now is implied in nearly every degenerative condition from diabetes, cardiovascular disease, brain dementia's, arthritis and auto-immune diseases. Gum disease, even early stages of gingivitis, represends a chronic inflamatory condition unlike having a open sore or wound that is not allowed to heal and seal itself from constant bacterial and inflamatory bombardment systemically.

So if you are not recieving regular dental care that monitors and treats gum disease, now is the time to start! Call our office today and live longer.

As stated before many migraine headaches and around 98% of TMJ pain cases have origins in muscular hyperactivity. The benefit of the NTI over traditional full coverage night guards is that studies have shown that when only the front teeth are in contact the muscles that close the jaw and clench are only able to produce about 1/3 the normal force. This allows the muscles to relax and the symptoms to subside. If a full coverage night guard is used, the back teeth are still able to contact which allows 100% clenching force to occur. The teeth will be protected from any bruxism or grinding, but the clenching force will not be decreased. The NTI however is not only effective in protecting the teeth during episodes of bruxism, but is most effective in decreasing the ability to clench with maximum force. This is why the NTI has worked for 1/2 million people world-wide who have suffered from migraine headaches and TMJ pain.

We have had great results with the NTI in our office you can watch a video testimony, of her experience with the NTI and how her migraine headaches were minimized with the NTI on the Aragona Dentistry Facebook Home Page.

80-85% of all conventional braces can today be done with invisable aligner treatment. Invisalign™ is not the only company out there manufacturing clear aligners. Companies like ClearCorrect™ and RWB™ are manufacturing aligners. Invisalign™ has made a trajic decision recently to unilaterally decide "compentance" of dentists performing orthodontics based exclusively on how many cases they submit to their company to manufacture. In other words, the tail is trying to wag the dog. Dentists like myself who have decades of experience in all forms of orthodontics see right through this.

If you would like to see what clear aligner treatment can offer you personally, call our office today to get an idea of what can be done. Prices are coming down and it can be a great time to feel more confident in yourself!

Dental implants are teeth that can look and feel just like your own. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is places into the jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants are a great way to replace a tooth that has been lost due to periodontal disease, injury or any other reason. Dental implants support a bridge and eliminate the need for a removable partial denture. Dental implants provide support for upper and lower denture, making them more secure and comfortable.

Dental implants are so natural-looking and feeling, you may forget you ever lost a tooth.You know that your confidence about your teeth affects how you feel about yourself, both personally and professionally. You hide your smile because of spaces from missing teeth. Maybe your dentures don't feel secure. Perhaps you have difficulty chewing. If you are missing one or more teeth and would like to smile, speak and eat again with comfort and confidence. Dental implants are teeth that can look and feel just like your own! Under proper conditions, such as placement by a periodontist and diligent patient maintenance, implants can last a lifetime. Long-term studies continue to show improving success rates for implants.

THERE IS GOOD NEWS, WE ARE NOW PLACING IMPLANTS RIGHT IN OUR OFFICE.

The link bellow is a testimony of a patient who recently had an implant place by Dr.Aragona.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HQEBcuaIU74

Free consultation to find out if you qualify*
Orthodontic records (photos, impressions and x-rays) a $ 500 value for only $100
All attendees will receive $ 300 off treatment
FREE teeth whitening ( $ 300 value) for all Invisalign patients
An additional $200 off treatment if you refer a friend
special no interest financing as low as $89/month
New Teen Invisalign certified for growing teens as young as 11 years now qualify
check out Irida's recent Invisalign experience at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xiGZ0FTLQ7U

Please RSVP for this at:

586-263-4060

*absoultely NO OBLIGATION to find out if you Invisalign works for you.


Yours for an amazing smile,

Sal Aragona DDS MAGD

As we move forward with our blog, we hope to promote dental awareness as a vital part of your healthy lifestyle. Here you will find a variety of articles and topics including dental news, advancements in dental technology and treatment, practical general dental health advice and updates from Dr. Aragona and his staff.

We hope you find our blog to be helpful, engaging and informational to ensure your best dental health. Advise or suggestions discussed in this blog should not be contrued as professional advise for a specific condition in a particular individual. Please seek professional help based upon an actual in person evaluation of your condition.

As always, feel free to contact us with any dental questions or concerns.