Warning Signs of Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth — or third molars — are our final set of molars and usually start to emerge between the ages of 16 and 25. They are known as “wisdom” teeth in most cultures because of their late arrival compared to other molars.  Like getting your braces off, the removal of wisdom teeth has become a dental “rite of passage” for many teens and young adults.

When your wisdom teeth start to emerge it can be painful - you may have pain towards the back of your jaw and inflammation.  However, it can be even worse if your wisdom teeth become impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth are trying to erupt but are unable to because there is not sufficient room for them to emerge.  This usually means they are painfully lodged in your jawbone and removal is necessary.

There are few oral health issues that can be as painful or disruptive to daily life as impacted wisdom teeth so its important that you are able to identify the issue as early as possible and receive the necessary care.  Some of the indicators include:

• Throbbing pain in the back of the mouth. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause a great deal of pain, particularly as the condition worsens. The pain may radiate from the back of the mouth, particularly focused on the area around the wisdom teeth and other molars and will worsen as the surrounding teeth begin to become affected.
• Swollen, tender and bleeding gums.  Impacted wisdom teeth can cause the gums to become swollen and tender to the touch. They may start to bleed when pressure is applied, making flossing and brushing both painful and difficult.
• Swelling around the jaw.  Impacted wisdom teeth are often accompanied by swelling of both the gums and jaw. It can be subtle at first, but can worsen quickly to the point that it can become painful or difficult to open your mouth, talk or chew.
• Swollen glands in the shoulder and neck. Impacted wisdom teeth are often accompanied by swollen glands in the shoulder and neck.
• Headaches.  Impacted wisdom teeth can cause headaches of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jaw and skull. This pain may radiate to other areas of the head and face as well.

Any of these symptoms are a good reason to call your dentist or doctor.  At the Raleigh dental practice of Jeff M. Morrison& Associates, we will conduct a thorough exam, including taking x-rays, and will rule out other issues such as gum disease, infection, decay or temporomandibular disorder, or TMD.  If you, (or your teen's) wisdom teeth are impacted we will want to remove them.  This can usually be done in our office or we can refer you to an oral surgeon.

A great way to prevent the pain of impacted wisdom teeth is to continue your routine preventive care as you get older.  As part of your dental exams, we will monitor the development of your wisdom teeth by taking X-rays periodically to track their position and movement.  If we believe they are likely to cause problems down the road we may suggest you have them removed as a preventive measure.  This is often done long before the teeth emerge because the longer wisdom teeth remain in the mouth the more developed their roots become, making their removal more complicated and the recovery time longer.  Since wisdom teeth will try to make room for themselves in a tightly packed jaw, they may also shift teeth that have been previously straightened with braces or other orthodontic devices, ruining the investment you made in your orthodontics. 

If you (or your teen) still have wisdom teeth, don't wait for complications to occur before talking with Dr. Morrison about your options.   Make an appointment with us today or call us at 919 755 3450.

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How To Handle Dental Emergencies

Dental emergencies can occur at any time - but don't they always seem to happen over a holiday weekend, or the day your're leaving for vacation? When problems arise, at Jeff M Morrison & Associates, DDS, we are here for our patients - including weekends and holidays. If a dental emergency occurs during our regular work week we will fit you in as soon as possible - usually with a same day appointment. If it's the weekend or a holiday, we will do what is needed to save your tooth, reduce your pain, stabilize the injury, and help you to feel comfortable with your appearance. If you need to see us right away contact our Raleigh dental practice for an emergency appointment. We only see current patients of record after regular office hours for emergency care. However, we welcome all emergency cases - new and current patients - during regular hours.

Here are some tips on how to handle the most common dental emergencies until you can get to our office:

Toothaches

If you are experiencing continuous, severe tooth pain or ache, this is a common symptom of an abscessed tooth. An abscess is an infection at the root of the tooth caused by pulp decay, and usually calls for a root canal. We recommend contacting our office immediately to examine the tooth and start treatment. If you do have an abscessed tooth it will only get worse without care.  Take these initial steps:  Rinse mouth with warm water and use dental floss to remove any lodged food. If swelling appears, hold a cold compress to the outside of the mouth or cheek. Never put aspirin against the gums or on the sore tooth, because it may burn the gum tissue.

Chipped or broken tooth

Chipped or broken teeth put you at-risk for an infection to the tooth pulp. Rinse mouth and any broken pieces with warm water. If bleeding, apply a piece of gauze to the area for about 10 minutes or until the bleeding stops. Hold a cold compress to the outside of the mouth or cheek to reduce swelling and ease pain.  Take pain medication as needed.

Knocked-out tooth

When a tooth has been knocked out, the nerves, blood vessels and supporting tissues are irreparably damaged.  That is why all avulsed teeth will need a root canal. However, the bone can reattach to the root of the tooth once it's put back into place. The odds of saving a tooth are highest in young children, but adult teeth can be saved as well so always keep the tooth if it's a permanent one. A tooth has the highest chance of being saved when it is returned to the socket within one hour. 

Follow these suggestions to improve the chances of saving your tooth:

• Handle the tooth carefully. Try not to touch the root (the part of the tooth that was under the gum). It can be damaged easily. 
• If the tooth is dirty, hold it by the upper part (the crown) and rinse it with milk. If you don't have any milk, rinse it with water. Don't wipe it off with a washcloth, shirt or other fabric. This could damage the tooth. 
• Keep the tooth moist. Drop it into a glass of milk. If you can't do this, place the tooth in your mouth, between the cheek and gum. A young child may not be able to safely "store" the tooth in his or her mouth without swallowing it. Instead, have the child spit into a cup. Place the tooth in the cup with the saliva. If nothing else is available, place the tooth in a cup of water. 
• If it's a permanent tooth, try slipping the tooth back into its socket. Make sure it's facing the right way. Don't try to force it into the socket. If it doesn't go back into place easily and without pressure, then just keep it moist (in milk, saliva or water) and get to the office as soon as you can.

Extruded (partially dislodged) tooth

Apply a cold compress to the outside of the mouth or cheek to ease pain. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever.

Object caught between teeth

Use dental floss to gently and carefully remove the object. Never use a sharp instrument, because you risk cutting your gums or scratching the tooth surface.

Lost filling or crown

It important to see Dr. Morrison as soon as you can if you lose a filling or crown. The exposed tooth is sensitive to pressure and temperature, and can become more damaged without the protection of the restoration. If a crown is missing for a long time, your teeth may move and the crown will no longer fit. Here's what you can do before you get to the office:

• If you still have the crown and can place back over the tooth, make sure to clean the inside as thoroughly as possible.  If it is painful, use a cotton swab to apply a little clove oil to the tooth.
• Try to slip the crown back over the tooth. Before putting the crown back in place, coat the inner surface with an over-the-counter dental cement, toothpaste or denture adhesive to help hold it in place. Never use super glue!
• If you’ve lost the crown or filling entirely, place the over-the-counter dental cement over the tooth surface to protect and seal the area until you get to our office.  No dental cement?  Use a piece of sugarless chewing gum over the tooth until you can get in. 

Broken braces wire

If a wire breaks or sticks out and is poking you, use the eraser end of a pencil to move the wire. If that is not working, use orthodontic wax, a small cotton ball or a piece of gauze to cover the wire tip. Don’t cut the wire, because you risk swallowing it.

Loose braces bracket or band

Use orthodontic wax to reattach a loose bracket or place the wax over the braces for cushioning. If a band is loose, save it until you see the orthodontist.

Abscess

These are painful infections that sometimes look like a swollen pimple on the gum, usually at the tooth’s root or in the space between the teeth and gum. Rinse mouth with a mild salt-water solution (one half-teaspoon of table salt in 8 ounces of water) several times a day, which will help ease any pain. It is critical to have this emergency attended to immediately to avoid the infection traveling through your system.

Soft-tissue injuries

Injuries to the tongue, cheeks, gums and lips can bleed easily. Rinse mouth with a mild salt-water solution. Hold a damp piece of gauze or a teabag to the site that is bleeding for about 15 minutes. Also hold a cold compress to the outside of the mouth or cheek for 10 minutes. If the bleeding doesn’t stop, see your dentist right away or go to a hospital emergency room.

Many of the dental emergencies we treat at our Raleigh dental practice can be avoided with simple steps like wearing a mouth guard, getting routine preventive care, and following up on recommended treatment plans. We do our part to keep your teeth and mouth healthy and encourage you to do the same. Don't hesitate to contact us if you have a dental emergency - even if it's over the weekend.

For more information about Jeff M. Morrison & Associates, or to schedule an emergency dental visit please call 919.755.3450 or visit our website.

TMD Pain and What You Can Do

Like many of our other body parts, we don’t realize how important the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is until it stops working properly.  This unique joint allows your jaw to open and close and to move back and forth and side to side.  When problems with the TMJ arise, called Temporomandibular  joint disorder - or TMD[i], symptoms can range from being a simple nuisance to incapacitating, affecting your ability to speak, eat, chew and sleep.  Here is some information that may help if you are experiencing TMD:

Symptoms of TMD

Pain, particularly in the jaw joint, is the most common symptom of TMD.  People with TMD may also experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• Unusual sounds — Clicking, grinding or popping sounds when you open your mouth are common in people with TMD. The sounds may or may not be accompanied by pain.
• Locking or limited movement —The jaw joint sometimes may lock in an open or closed position. You may have difficulty opening your mouth either because the joint is locked or because of pain.
• "Ear" pain — You may think you have an ear infection, but ear pain may be related to jaw joint inflammation or muscle tenderness. Pain from TMD is usually felt in front of or below the ear.
• Headaches — People with TMD often report headaches, especially headaches when they first wake up.
• Morning stiffness or soreness — If your jaw muscles are stiff and sore when you wake up, it may by a sign that you are clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth in your sleep.
• Difficulty chewing — You may have difficulty chewing as a result of a change in your bite, or the way your upper and lower teeth fit together. 

Who Gets TMD and Why?

If you have TMD you are not alone - this disorder occurs in 10-12% of the population, and twice as often in women as men.  The cause is not always clear.  One factor may be physical stress on your TMJ from teeth grinding or clenching.  A recent injury to the jaw joint, or one from many years past, can lead to TMD symptoms.   Other conditions that affect joints in the body, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, can also cause TMD pain.   

What Can You Do if you Have TMD?

Most people with TMD have relatively mild or periodic symptoms which quickly improve with simple home therapies, such as avoiding hard, crunchy and chewy foods, applying heat or ice packs to the jaw, and avoiding extreme jaw movements.  You may want to invest in a headset for your phone or work on your posture, especially if you find yourself hunching over your computer.  We also suggest that you consider the level of stress in your life - and do what is needed to reduce it.  If these home remedies are not enough, some of the effective, conservative treatments we use include medication to help with the pain and reduce inflammation, mild muscle relaxants to alleviate jaw clenching and grinding, and fitting our patients with oral appliances. 

If these symptoms sound familiar, contact Raleigh dentist Jeff M. Morrison & Associates DDS at (919) 755 3450 for a consultation.  

 

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[i] TMD is an umbrella term covering pain and dysfunction of the muscles that move the jaw and the temporomandibular joints (TMJ).  Many people refer to the jaw pain or discomfort they are experiencing as "TMJ" which is a misnomer.  TMJ simply refers to the joint.  Any disorders involving this joint are considered TMD.  

Millenials Face Unexpected Dental Problems

Do you think it's just little children chomping on sticky candy or older people struggling with tooth loss that are filling up dental chairs?

Think again. More and more young adults, age 18-34 years, are being seen for dental problems. If some millennials aren’t smiling, there’s good reason. A recent study by the American Dental Association (ADA) found they’re in a world of hurt – from tooth pain, trouble biting and chewing, and anxiety about the poor condition of their teeth.

Decaying teeth and gum problems make one in three young adults aged 18 to 34 (33%) reluctant to smile, the ADA found. About one in five have cut back on socializing as a result of dental problems. And one in three say the appearance of their teeth and mouth undermines their ability to interview for a job.  This study also found:

• More than 30% of young adults have untreated tooth decay (the highest of any age group)
• 35% have trouble biting and chewing
• They are three times more likely than children to lack dental care due to financial reasons, with only 30% of millennials visiting the dentist each year.
• Tooth pain was the most common dental complaint.

If tooth pain and anxiety surrounding poor dental conditions aren’t bad enough, attaining affordable dental insurance is viewed as difficult for much of this generation, who are often struggling to find jobs and pay off student loans. A large segment of millennials work part-time or as freelancers, which means they do not have access to employer-sponsored dental plans.

A visit to the dentist is not always a top priority, but here's why you shouldn't let this preventive measure slide:

• Most dental problems, such as decay or periodontal disease, will just get worse if left untreated.
• When a dental emergency occurs, being established with a dentist really helps you save money and often results in better care. 
• Dental procedures, even common ones, take time away from work, and sometimes require multiple visits, while a routine cleaning and exam takes about 30 minutes each six months.
• What you spend on a crown for a decayed tooth, or treatment for periodontal disease, probably could have paid for several years of preventive care (and you would have avoided the problem altogether).
• Research is clear about the connection between oral health and your overall health. Dental problems can lead to increased risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke, dementia, Alzheimer's diabetic complications and respiratory problems. Oral HPV is seen more and more in young adults and is a primary risk factor of cancer. It just makes sense to maintain your oral health.

At Jeff M. Morrison & Associates, DDS, we want you to have a confident, healthy smile. We offer flexible - and often same day - scheduling for preventive and urgent care and a convenient downtown location.  Do you have an urgent, or emergency dental concern?  We see our established patients on weekends and holidays.

If you have insurance, we are “in network” provider with Blue Cross Blue Shield North Carolina, CIGNA and Delta Dental Premier, and will conveniently file all other insurances for you. For our uninsured patients, we offer the St. Mary’s Street Dental Savings Plan, an in-office discounted plan to make regular preventive care and treatment more affordable.  We also participate in Care Credit dental financing, which offers a low monthly payment plan for dental treatments.

Don't neglect your dental health.  Call us today at 919 755 3450 to schedule an appointment.

A Beautiful Smile - in Two Weeks

Everyone wants an attractive smile. However, the reality is that chipped or crooked teeth, irregular tooth size, and discoloration of enamel are common. Do these imperfections cause you to hide your smile, or feel uncomfortable for any reason? If so, veneers are a great solution to consider.  One of the most asked-about treatments at our Raleigh dental office, veneers offer a beautiful, natural smile in just a couple office visits. Advances in dental technology mean that today's veneers are strong, attractive, and more affordable than you think.  


Veneers are customized restorations that mimic the natural look of teeth - minus the imperfections.  They are custom-made for each tooth and adhere to the front surface of existing teeth to improve their appearance.  We recommend veneers for teeth that are:

• Worn-down

• Fractured

• Discolored

• Chipped or broken

• Misaligned, uneven, or irregularly shaped

At our Raleigh dental practice, we offer different types of porcelain veneers to provide individualized treatment options for your smile. Depending on your specific needs, one veneer option might be better than the other.   

Interested in trying veneers?  Here's what you can expect: 

• Consultation and Exam: We’ll assess your overall tooth health and aesthetics to determine if you’re a good candidate for porcelain dental veneers.  If you are ready to move forward, all the teeth being fitted for porcelain veneers will be evaluated to ensure they’re good candidates for dental veneer fitting.
• Preparation: We’ll prepare your surfaces for a seamless fitting that will permanently bond the dental veneer to the front of your tooth.  
• Fitting: Your veneers will be individually applied by Dr. Morrison and double checked to make sure they’re fully bonded before letting the world see your new smile!
• After care:  Our staff will discuss with you way to maintain your veneers.

There are a lot of benefits to veneers - in additional to being aesthetically pleasing.   They are strong - often lasting 5-10 years.  These restorations do not require as much shaping of the natural tooth as crowns do allowing us to preserve as much of the tooth as possible.  They may also offer a more affordable option than other cosmetic procedures, such as crowns or braces.  

We invite you to take a moment and look through our Smile Gallery at some of the stunning results our team has achieved with veneers.   Our staff is happy to discuss payment options for your veneers, including Care Credit.   If you participate in the St. Marys Street Dental Savings Plan, our in-office financial plan for uninsured patients, you'll receive 15% off the cost of your veneers.   

To learn more or schedule a consultation,  contact our us today!

Add caption

This patient chose lower veneers rather than braces - a much faster, easier and less expensive way to have straighter lower teeth.

Oral Cancer Awareness Month

November is Mouth Cancer Action Month - giving me a good opportunity to again call attention to this growing problem. 

The entire team at Jeff M. Morrison & Associates DDS - from the front desk staff to the Dental Hygienists - as well as the American Dental Association, recommends that you schedule regular cleanings and exams twice a year.  During the "exam", in addition to looking at your teeth,  I  check everything from your lips all the way to the back of your throat.  That's a lot of surface area.  I'm looking for any changes - such as redness, lumps, lesions, pain, or changes in how your teeth fit together - anything that may indicate a problem.  Mouth cancer can often be spotted in its early stages and during my exam I can see parts of your mouth that you may not easily see yourself.  If I find something unusual - and I have a number of times - I'll refer you to a specialist for further follow-up. 

Most cases of oral cancer are linked to tobacco and alcohol use, and if tobacco and alcohol are consumed together the risk is even greater.  Recent reports have linked oral cancer to a virus (HPV) that affects the skin that lines the moist areas of the body.  HPV, the primary cause of cervical cancer, can be spread through oral sex, and research now suggests that it could soon rival smoking and drinking as one of the main causes of oral cancer.  Once a disease of old men, oral cancer is now seen more and more in younger men and women - many of whom have never used tobacco.

The death rate associated with oral cancer is particularly high not because it's hard to discover or diagnose, but due to the cancer being routinely discovered late in its development.  Another obstacle to early discovery (and better outcomes) is that HPV is contributing more to the incidence rate of oral cancers, particularly in the back part of the mouth (such as the tonsils or the base of the tongue) which are difficult to see and many times does not produce visible lesions or discolorations that have been the early warning signs of the disease.

If you notice any changes between your regular dental checkups don't hesitate to give us a call.  What "changes" should you be looking for?  According to The American Dental Association, the symptoms of oral cancer can include:

• ·        A sore or irritation that doesn't go away
• ·        Red or white patches 
• ·        Pain, tenderness or numbness in mouth or lips
• ·        A lump, thickening, rough spot, crust or small eroded area
• ·        Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving your tongue or jaw
• ·        A change in the way your teeth fit together when you close your mouth

Keeping our patients healthy is our priority.  If you suspect a problem give us a call at 919 755 3450.  We will fit you in right away for an exam.  If you have  a friend or family member you are concerned about - due to their risk for oral cancer or symptoms they may be having - I encourage you to share this information with them.

For more information about oral cancer please visit: http://www.oralcancerfoundation.org/facts/

Why Do Dentists Want You To Come In Every Six Months?

           I hear this all the time when I tell a patient who just had a great check-up that I'll see them in six month - "Really? Six months. But my teeth are healthy." I understand - everyone is busy. If you don't have dental insurance, a routine cleaning and exam is an added expense. Instead of a waste of time and money - I suggest you to look at that exam as 30 minutes that can have a real impact on your teeth, your overall health, and your wallet.

The American Dental Association recommends semi-yearly exam and cleanings. That being said, everyone is different. Some adults with no risk factors and a great oral hygiene routine can get away with pushing it out to every nine months, while others really should stick to the twice yearly recommendation.  People with periodontal disease definitely need to get in every 3 or 4 months.  Children, because their teeth and jaws are still developing and they're still learning good oral hygiene habits, really need to come in every six months. 

Your oral health can change pretty quickly. A lesion can appear. A filling can fall out or a tooth fracture.  Decay or periodontal disease can start. You may not even be aware that anything is wrong. The time you spend here can mean much less time in our office down the road, much less expense, and if you have oral cancer - much earlier intervention and care.

In general, our "hygiene" appointments - which include a cleaning and exam - are about 30 minutes[1]. We cover a lot in that time.  I'll evaluate the health of your and gums, checking for redness, inflammation or signs of gingivitis or periodontal disease. I'll do an oral cancer screening, perform a head and neck examination, and check the health of your teeth, jaw and bite. I'll look for evidence of tooth decay, damaged fillings, contact between your teeth, and any broke or loose teeth. Your Dental Hygienist will also do a thorough cleaning of your mouth. This will include removing any plaque and tartar, polishing and flossing your teeth. She'll point out any areas that you may need to focus on, and talk with you about maintaining good oral hygiene at home between visits. Once your examination and cleaning are complete, I'll tell you about the health of your teeth and gums and we'll discuss any recommendations to improve your dental health.

Believe me when I say it's worth it. In my 30+ years as a dentist, I've identified areas that turned out to be cancerous lesions in a number of patients, and have referred many patients follow-up care because of suspected diabetes, reflux, eating disorders and other problems. I've also helped countless patients sleep better with our custom-made sleep apnea devices (and there are a lot of health benefits to getting a good night of sleep), and have resolved chronic headaches in people with our oral appliances.

People think 'no pain, no problem', or have a false sense of security because cosmetically their teeth look good. The truth is, many dental issues can advance without pain until they're very serious and requires more invasive and expensive treatment. If you have insurance - we accept just about any plan and are in network with Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna and Delta Dental Premier - the cost of a 6 month cleaning and exam will probably be covered. Take advantage of it - even if you had a great visit in the past. If you don't have insurance - consider investing in the St. Marys Street Dental Health Plan - our in-office dental savings plan, which provides two cleanings and dental exams (including x-rays, periodontal and oral cancer screenings) per year at a significant cost savings, along with discounted care.

For more information on our financial options, or to schedule an appointment, please call us at 919 755 3450. You can also schedule online.  See you soon.

[1] If you're a new patient the initial cleaning and exam takes about an hour

Eight Ways to Help Your Anxious Child At the Dentist

As a dentist, and the father of a child who has dental anxiety, I know how helpless, embarrassed, and even frustrated parents feel when their child is experiencing a high level of anxiety at a dental appointment.  With the right amount of empathy, support, skills and coaching, nearly every child can overcome this fear.  

Here are my suggestions - as a dentist and a dad -  on how you can help your child deal with anxiety at the dental office:

Don't Share YOUR Dental Anxiety  

If a parent struggles with anxiety at the dentist - and I know a lot of adults do - there's a good chance their child will, too.  Why?  Because when you voice your fear, avoid going to the dentist, make jokes about how much you dislike dental appointments - your child picks up on it.  Addressing your own dental anxiety may help limit how much your child models these same behaviors.

The Benefits of the Dental Visit  

It's easy for a  frustrated parent to portray the dentist and a dental visit as a consequence or form of punishment for their child's poor oral hygiene.  Don't use threats like: "If you don't brush your teeth the dentist is going to use the drill to fix your cavities" - or something equally frightening.  Instead, emphasize how happy he is going to be when your child has a great check up, or how proud you'll be when the Dental Hygienist tells you that he has done a great job brushing.  Let them know the dentist is there to help keep their teeth healthy just as their pediatrician helps keep their body healthy. 

Visit Early  

Bring your child in at age three for their first visit.  We'll have a friendly chat, let them touch the instruments, see the inside of their mouth with the intraoral camera, listen to the noise of the suction machine, and sit in the chair.   We'll even take a quick peek in their mouth and let them get a toy out of the treasure box.   If your child shows signs of anxiety early on we can start to work on it.  Unaddressed dental anxiety usually just get worse.

Acceptance and Empathy 

Accept and empathize with - rather than invalidate - your child's anxiety.   Try to get at the specifics of their fear - are they worried about pain?  Fear of the unknown?   Getting a shot?  Loud or strange noises?  Taking a moment to understand and accept their feelings will allow you to support your child more effectively.  Share their fears with our staff so that we can assure their comfort when they're at the office. 

Don't Overreact 

It is hard to see your child upset, but as parents, we have to tolerate their distress, remain positive and calm, and move forward with the dental appointment because it's in the child's best interest.  Calling off the appointment or procedure,  providing excessive reassurance to a crying child, or appearing to be overly concerned about their anxiety may actually strengthen and reinforce it.  

We've found that often a child's anxiety will lessen when mom or dad remains in the waiting room during the appointment.  This lets the child know that their parent is confident  they're going to be fine, which alleviates some of the fear and allows the child to calm down. 

Help them Manage Their Anxiety  

If the sound of the suction machine is terrifying we can take a few minutes to let them see it and experiment with putting it in their mouth.  Prepare them for the appointment -  let them know the week before, the day before and the day of the appoint that they will be coming in to see the dentist.  Arrive early so they can sit calmly in the waiting area for a few minutes.  Help them come up with some calming strategies.  Do they have an item that keeps them calm?  We don't mind if their favorite toy or blanket is in the chair with them.   You can also download a kids or some special music for them to listen to on earphones while we work.  Finally, even very young children can practice simple breathing or relaxation techniques.  

Reward Brave Behavior 

Instead of paying attention to anxious behavior, or expressing disappointment about how they acted during the visit, praise their use of anxiety management skills - even if it was minimal.   Were they able to go into the exam room on their own?  Did they stay in the dental chair?  Did they get through the exam without crying?   Or maybe they cried for just for a minute?  These are all great steps.  

Prevention is Key 

The best way to help your anxious child?  Make sure they take great care of their teeth at home, and bring them in for regular exams and cleanings.  We can identify areas where they may need to improve their brushing, or intervene at a very early stage if there  is a problem.   With good oral hygiene, they may be able to avoid potentially anxiety-inducing procedures and simply have pleasant, comfortable visits for cleanings and exams.

We'll work together with you to make your child's dental experience as comfortable and pleasant as possible.  If you have questions or want to schedule an appointment, please contact us.   Do you have other calming strategies you've used with your anxious child a medical or dental visit?  Feel free to share in the space below.  

As always - we always welcome new patients (even anxious ones).  

Headaches? Call Your Dentist!

Are you suffering from unexplained or recurrent headaches? Have you been unable to figure out the culprit? It may sound strange, but headaches are often linked to your oral health.  Talking to Dr. Morrison, of Jeff M.Morrison & Associates, DDS, should be a starting point when dealing with chronic headaches.

"Many people suffer through headaches for years without getting to the root cause of their problem" notes Dr. Jeff M. Morrison, DDS.  "Letting your dentist know about your pain can be a great first step because chronic or recurrent headaches are frequently caused by dental issues."  In fact, the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain estimates that 80% of headaches are caused by muscle tension, which often originates in the jaws.  

What Do Tension Headaches Feel Like?

A tension headache may be on one side of your head, or it can pervade your entire skull. Typically, tension headaches feel like a dull, throbbing ache inside your head. Some patients report that they feel as though a metal band has been wrapped around their head and is causing significant pressure. Several common symptoms suggest that tension headaches may be caused by dental issues:

1.      Feeling as though your head or scalp is painful to the merest touch

2.      Experiencing a dull or throbbing pain behind the eyes

3.      Clicking or popping sounds in your jaw joints

4.      Grinding teeth or clenching the jaws, particularly in times of stress, anxiety or during the night

5.      Feeling as though your jaw muscles are sore when you wake up from sleep

Dental Origins of Headaches

Several dozen muscles control your facial expressions, jaw movements, and motions such as swallowing. When these muscles are contracted for long periods of time, tension builds up within the muscle and can lead to headaches. This may happen if you clench or grind your teeth at night, your bite is misaligned, or you have muscle imbalances in the jaw or neck.

Dental Treatments for Tension Headaches

Want to get to the bottom of your headaches?  Schedule anappointment with Dr. Morrison.  He will talk with you, review of your medical and dental history, and possibly take some x-rays.  If dental issues are contributing to you headaches, your care may include the following treatments:

1.      Bite adjustment. Every time you swallow the teeth come together to push the jaw against the skull.   If you have a poorly aligned bite, this can cause your muscles to work even harder. Those with TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disordersuffer from jaw joint and muscle problems that can cause pain and swelling and even headaches. In many cases, correcting your bite through orthodontics releases the stress on your jaw and muscles, and reduces the frequency of headaches.

2.      Nightguard.  A nightguard, which resembles a sports mouthguard, may also be helpful if you frequently grind your teeth or clench your jaws during sleep. Nightguards distribute the tension from your clenched jaws and reduce the possibility of dental damage.

3.      Physical therapy and relaxation. Correcting the posture of your shoulders, neck, and head may alleviate muscle tension associated with headaches. 

Have questions or want to talk with Dr. Morrison about your headaches?  Contact our office online or at (919) 755 3450 to schedule an appointment.  

Oral Health Concerns for People Over 50

When they say “age is all in your head,” they’re probably right. But then, your teeth ARE in your head -- so you likely can’t escape having to pay a little more attention to them after the age of 50. Although some oral health concerns are seen as common as we age, if you adopt a proactive mindset and educate yourself, these concerns do not have to be common for you. Anticipating and recognizing changes in your mouth can help you be on top of your health in this area -- so let’s take a look at the main ones you have to watch out for.

Dry Mouth: The most common oral health concern you’re likely to experience as you age is dry mouth. In the medical world, dry mouth goes by the name xerostomia, and can be brought on by a number of contributing factors, including the over-consumption of drying beverages like coffee and alcohol, as well as the frequent consumption of salty foods. Another big offender is the medication we take over a lifetime to treat various illness. And the list isn’t a short one – there are at least 400 medications that can contribute to xerostomia, including medications for high blood pressure and depression.

Ill-fitting Dentures: First off, it’s important to note that the need for dentures is not a must as we age. Today, healthier living and better access to dental care has reduced the percentage of seniors wearing dentures to 27% from nearly 50% just a few decades ago. That said, should dentures be a part of your life, or that of a loved one, wearing properly-fitting dentures is critical.Sometimes, all that’s needed is a denture reline. Give us a call at 919.755.3450 to see if we can help. Dentures that cause pain or shift in the mouth tend to alter a person’s eating habits, which can lead to nutrition deficits if healthy, but hard-to-chew, foods are avoided.

Physical Obstacles to Good Oral Care: As we age, we sometimes find ourselves having to contend with physical ailments that limit our desire to maintain good oral care. Arthritis, vision loss, or injuries are a few of the most common. To combat these concerns, using a floss pick to get between teeth can be helpful, and the regular use of oral rinses can assist in dislodging difficult-to-remove food debris, while adding to the overall health of one’s mouth and gum tissue. Talk to Dr. Morrison or your dental hygienist about how to choose the best mouth rinse for your needs!

Naturally Receding Gums: The old expression “long in the tooth” isn’t just a quaint idiom about how one accumulates wisdom with age – it also refers to how our teeth appear to “lengthen” as we age. In other words, it’s a fancy way of saying our gums are receding. While some degree of gum recession is indeed natural as we get up in years, this predisposes us to cavities along the root structure of the tooth where enamel doesn’t exist. So, as one ages, flossing, brushing and rinses are more important than ever.

Gum Disease: Natural gum recession is one thing, and a part of “growing up,” if you will. Gum disease, however, is preventable. So, if it’s been longer than six months since you’ve seen us, please do give us a call at 919 755 3450. Each of the above items in this list can contribute to gum disease, and good oral care can prevent it. Failing to do so can lead to a need for dentures at its most extreme, and pain and swollen gums at its least. We’d prefer you experience neither concern!

Tooth Loss: If a tooth is lost due to trauma or decay, and not replaced with an implant or other prosthetic, it can have serious complications for the health of the jawbone. Teeth can shift out of place and fall out, and bone tissue can be adsorbed back into the body. Not a good thing.

Loss of Insurance Coverage: Retirees without dental coverage can sometimes cover the expense of dental care on their own; sometimes they cannot. But a lack of funds to take care of one’s teeth can be devastating to the health of our mouths, and our overall health. So we need to plan for two things: a care routine that allows us to take care of our teeth as much as humanly possible and some sort of financial backup plan for when problems do arise.  If you don't have insurance we offer the Dental Savings Plan - our in-office affordable plan that provides a significant discount on all your dental care as well as annual preventive care. We also work with Care Credit to help pay for your dental care.  For more information on how we can work with you to afford your dental care, give our friendly staff a call.  

Most Common Place You Get Cavities

Perhaps one of the most dreaded phrases a child - or adult- can hear during a regular check-up is “You have a cavity.” At Jeff M. Morrison & Associates DDS, we never want to say these words! That's why our primary goal is prevention. But it's also helpful to know where you're most likely to get cavities - so you can target where you brush and floss. Here is a list of the places you're most likely to get a cavity.

In the Grooves

On the chewing surface of your back teeth there are many grooves (called fissures) that run in the teeth as well as small holes or pits. These are common places for cavities. 

In Between your Teeth

In a normal mouth, all the teeth touch each other except for the ones all the way in the back. In the area between the teeth, it is hard to fit a toothbrush and easy for plaque to grow and create a cavity, especially if you’re not flossing daily.

At the Margins

The margins of fillings, crowns, bridges, and other dental work aren't always as smooth as we’d like it to be. This area, between the restoration and the tooth, is an easy place for plaque to grow. 

Just Above the Gumline

This is a common place for cavities, especially for people who drink lots of energy drinks and soda because the acids in these drinks can pool around the gumline and attack the teeth, creating a cavity.

At the Roots

When you have periodontal, or gum, disease the bone and gums that surround the teeth gradually fall down. This exposes the root surface of the teeth. The root surface is much softer than the hard enamel shell that encases the tops of our teeth making it easier for cavities to occur on the root surface.

Next to a Partial

It's easy for food to get trapped between a partial denture and the natural teeth. Plus, there’s usually a metal appliance that fits around the tooth making it easy for plaque to grow. If you have a partial denture, Dr. Morrison or your Dental Hygienist will come up with an oral hygiene program tailor-made for you.

Under Fillings 

Fillings that have worn away, chipped, cracked or fallen out provide an entry point for the bacteria that cause tooth decay.

Good oral hygiene along, with a healthy diet, is the best way to avoid a cavity. Here are some tips:

• Good brushing.  Make sure you’re brushing the grooves and pits of your teeth. 
• Keep flossing. We recommend flossing every day. If you find you can’t get the floss to go down or come back up from between the tooth, give our office a call. 
• Fluoride: It's important for infants and children between the ages of 6 months and 16 years to be exposed to fluoride. Adults benefit from fluoride, too. New research indicates that topical fluoride -- from toothpastes, mouth rinses, and fluoride treatments -- are as important in fighting tooth decay as in strengthening developing teeth. 
• Regular cleaning and exams. With twice yearly cleaning and exams, you can often prevent a cavity from occurring, or catch one in the earliest stage - which is easiest (and less expensive) to treat. 

Worried that you may have a cavity? Don't wait! Give give us a call at (919) 755-3450 or schedule an appointment with Dr. Morrison online.



Source:

1. http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-health-cavities

2. http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/fluoride-treatment

Ten Ways to Use Dental Floss - In Addition to Flossing Your Teeth

Earth Day has passed, but we want to continue to recycle, repurpose and up cycle.  Many dental products – including most dental floss and floss containers – aren’t recyclable in the traditional fashion, but there are plenty of clever ways to re-purpose these items around the home, saving our lovely planet from unnecessary waste. In fact, here are 10 uses for floss that don’t involve your teeth at all!                                           

1. FLOSS IN THE GARDEN CAN DETER PESTS AND TRAIN VINES:  Irish Springs soap smells great to us, but it is a strong repellent to deer and effective at keeping those nuisances away from your trees and out of your garden all year long. Cut the soap bar into quarters, use a skewer to poke holes through the soap chunks, and thread dental floss through the holes. After that, hang the “soap ornaments” from tree branches or stakes placed near plants deer like to munch on. As for vines, tie floss fairly loosely along the vine stems to train them to wind up your trellis. Floss is a resilient and weatherproof material!

2. FLOSS CAN BE USED TO PERFECTLY CUT THROUGH SOFT FOODS:  Besides being practical, doesn’t this alternate use for floss look fun? Whether you’re simply trying to avoid dirtying a knife, or you love it when slices of food are perfectly symmetrical, use floss to easily glide through soft solid foods like blocks of cheese, tubes of cookie dough, burritos, or even cake! *Tip: It’s probably a good idea to use unscented floss…unless you like minty cheddar!

3. FLOSS CAN HELP CREATE UNIQUE EASTER EGGS:  Easter has passed us by, so you’ll have to wait a whole year to show off these beautiful eggs. After you’re finished hard-boiling, drying, and cooling your eggs, tie multiple pieces of dental floss around the outer shell. You can keep the patterns horizontal as shown above right, or randomize the patterns as shown above left. Submerge the eggs in colored dye as usual, and when you remove them from the dye and slip off the floss, you’ll be left with a very cool effect!

4. FLOSS MAKES GREAT GARLAND STRING ON FESTIVE OCCASIONS

Waxed dental floss is especially perfect for creating festive holiday garlands since its slippery coating helps candy, food, or balloons, glide, making the threading process a breeze! Popcorn, cranberries, and gummy candies are just a couple of ideas – you can use floss and a needle to string up almost any material that can be pierced. Pom-poms, pretzels, doilies, marshmallows…the possibilities are endless.

5. FLOSS IS A HANDY ALTERNATIVE TO PICTURE WIRE:  Every once-in-a-while you get a hankering to hang art, and those times rarely coincide with the instances when you have picture hanging wire on-hand. Not to worry, dental floss is a great substitute- plus, it won’t scratch the paint off of your walls like wire tends to do! Wind the floss several times between the two hooks on the back of any lightweight artwork (leaving a bit of slack), knot the end, and you’re ready to hang your masterpiece on a nail.

 6. FLOSS IS A HARDY SUBSTITUTE FOR THREAD WHEN MAKING REPAIRS:  Did a handle fall off of your favorite tote bag? Did a metal spoke tear through your umbrella fabric? Has a naughty button popped off of your blouse? Don’t throw away the things you love, thread some floss on a needle and fix them up! Floss is a hardier alternative to traditional thread when it comes to emergency repairs and can mend shirts, bags, pants and even shoes.  Store some unwaxed floss just for this purpose.  

7. FLOSS CAN BE TRANSFORMED INTO A MINIATURE BOW AND ARROW SET:  It may be tiny, but this clever contraption can shoot Q-Tips 15-20 feet! Perfect for kids to use outdoors, and perfect for grownups to brandish during cubicle wars, this craft is sure to provide hours of entertainment. Carve small notches into both ends of a Popsicle stick, and submerge the stick in a bowl of water until it is malleable. Wrap a length of floss a few times around one end of the stick, pull the floss across to the other side and wrap it there, making sure the floss is taught. Ready, aim, fire at will! (Just don’t shoot your eye out, kid.)

8. FLOSS CONTAINERS MAKE PRACTICAL CATCH-ALLS

Floss containers make great catch-alls for things that are notorious for turning up in various places throughout your house or vehicle! Bobby pins, antacids, spare change, hair bands…this is such a smart and simple organizational tool.”These cartons also make perfectly portable emergency sewing kits. Remove the plastic spool from the container, wrap thread around it, and re-insert. You’ll be able to conveniently use the metal piece to cut your thread! There will even be additional space in the container for a few safety pins, a needle, and a button or two. They’re so handy, you may want to make multiple kits – keep one in your car, and one in your purse.  

9. MAKE A FISHING ROD:  If you don't have a fishing rod, us dental floss and a pole. 

10.  MAKE A SHELTER:  Use floss to make a lean-to with a tarp or blanket. Just thread the floss through the holes of the tarp or the corners of the emergency blanket.  If you need a larger shelter, use your dental floss to lash branches together so you can build one. If you already have a shelter, use floss to make it a little sturdier.

Benefits of Flossing 

Even though we’ve covered lots of creative uses for dental floss that don’t include your mouth, our recommendation is to first and foremost use floss as intended.  According to the Academy of General Dentistry, flossing is the single most important weapon when it comes to fighting plaque. Floss removes food trapped between the teeth and removes bacteria that forms on the teeth before it has a chance to harden into plaque. Brushing your teeth alone cannot clean effectively between these tight spaces, and plaque that is not removed can harden into tartar.  When this happens, brushing and cleaning between teeth become more difficult, and gum tissue can become swollen or may bleed. This condition is called gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease.   If you have questions about brushing or flossing, talk with Dr. Morrison or your Dental Hygienist at your next cleaning and exam.  Is it time for you to schedule one?  Give our office a call at 919 755 3450! 

Do you have some other uses for dental floss?  Let us know in the comments below.

Sources: 

http://www.ada.org/en/science-research/ada-seal-of-acceptance/product-category-information/floss-and-other-interdental-cleaners

http://urbansurvivalsite.com/27