Pearls of Wisdom

How do You Fatigue your Adrenals?

2012-01-11T08:04:00.000-08:00

How do you fatigue your adrenals? I know, easy answer right? STRESS! Just live one week of your life. Take that one week and begin to look at it x2 or x10 or x100 weeks. After awhile, the adrenal glands become fatigued or even exhausted simply by the daily stressors of your busy life. Your body is designed so that when the source of immediate stress passes, you can return to a state of rest. When you are constantly in stressful situations, you are constantly on alert. If you do not return to a state of rest, then you risk adrenal fatigue. The cause of fatigue can simply be the stress of daily living, but on top of that stress, add injuries, surgeries, lack of nutrition, lack of rest, or pregnancies and BAM! You have a full on exhaustive episode.

CUT 2 THE CHASE

High stress will decrease your ability to fight infections and absorb nutrients effectively. You may also notice that your allergies are worse in times of stress. Stress which causes high cortisol levels will ultimately lead to adrenal fatigue, which in turn could eventually lead to cancer, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disease, degenerative diseases, periodontal disease and accelerated aging. The cause of fatigue can simply be stress of daily living, injuries, surgeries, lack of nutrition, lack of rest, pregnancies, etc.

The adrenal glands basically regulate everything, so you must make an effort every day to support their health. You must make these habits a priority of life: sleep, exercise, decreased and controlled stress; support yourself with proper supplements; remove inflammatory foods and remove habits like smoking and excessive alcohol. A proactive and preventive approach to your own mental, physical and dental health will increase your overall health and well-being.

The Mouth is the Window to Your Health

2012-01-11T08:03:00.000-08:00

A smile should exude confidence, health, and happiness. Perception of your emotional and physical health is influenced by your smile. What does your smile say? If a smile is worth a thousand words, make sure it tells the message you want. Your mouth is the window to your body and it gives many subtle hints to your age, stress level, and overall health. That is why maintaining your oral health is critical.

One of the easiest symptoms to observe in the mouth is STRESS! People just love to clench and grind when they are under a ton of stress. Stress leaves subtle signs like worn teeth, which ages your looks prematurely. A dry mouth or lack of saliva also can occur under chronic stress. Look at your tongue. Is it nice and smooth or does it look like a dried up lake bed with cracks and crevices? Saliva is your body’s natural way of protecting itself from cavities. Without enough you will become more susceptible to cavities, infections, and periodontal disease. Everyday science is uncovering more and more direct links of periodontal disease with cardiovascular disease, strokes, and diabetes. You may not be concerned about losing one of your 32 teeth, but when tooth infections affect your one and only heart, you just might change your mind.

Insane or Inflamed?

2012-01-11T08:01:00.000-08:00

If you feel so bad that at times you think you are losing your mind, there is hope for you! You just need to get your body regulated again. At one time or another, you have probably received or purchased a cortisone cream or cortisone shot to place on a rash or decrease joint swelling or inflammation

CORTISOL = BODY’S NATURAL DEFENSE AGAINST INFLAMMATION!

Imagine that you have used up your body’s natural way to fight inflammation. High cortisol levels cause suppression of the immune system and interfere with the surface integrity of the body's mucosal linings in the digestive tract and respiratory system. This can put you at greater risk for infections and allergic reactions to foods.

The state of inflammation can ultimately lead to cancer and other serious illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, autoimmune diseases, degenerative diseases, periodontal disease, and accelerated aging. You can see how the magnitude of just one fatigued or exhausted gland can affect so many different areas of health! Visualize the “Circle of Health” again and begin to look at the symptoms in the outer ring to get ideas about which of the inner core jewels may be improperly functioning for you.

The latest wave toward healthcare—the oral systemic link—is a huge example of just how intertwined our entire body is when it comes to stress and inflammation. Many of the above mentioned diseases are defined as CHRONIC INFLAMMATORY DISEASES. Many subtle signs and symptoms of inflammation can be seen inside the mouth.

Address the Stress

2012-01-06T06:20:00.000-08:00

As we begin a new year, most of us make resolutions on things we can improve on. I recently published a book that I co-authored called Address the Stress that is a guide to the oral systemic link. We have focused 10 chapters with over 130 pages on just this and I would like to share some of it with you. I wish you a wonderful new year filled with health and happiness.
-Jill Wade, DDS, MAGD

Let's Address the Stress!
Do you feel exhausted, tired, stressed, and have no energy? If at one point in your life you felt like the life of the party, but now you hardly have enough energy to go to the party, you are not alone. Most people do not fully understand the important influence that long term stress has on your body and the interrelated role that our adrenal glands play in our everyday life. For as bad as you may feel right now, the good news is that with the proper testing, the right treatment, and rest, your stress can be reduced and your adrenals brought back to health. Soon you can begin to feel like your old self again!

“CIRCLE OF HEALTH” PHILOSOPHY
We believe your body and health act like a circle, rolling through life just fine until a piece or pieces of it begin to deteriorate. At that point the ride gets turbulent and the journey of life becomes harder on you. As things start to fall apart, you might find a temporary remedy with a prescription. But as more stressors surface in your life and as you get older, you will likely end up with a flat tire that is no longer able to be patched.

Look at all the health related issues that integrate together to form a complete “Circle of Health.”

HOW DO YOU COPE WITH STRESS?

Some of you may answer, “Not so well.” This may be true, but let’s look at how your body physically deals with stress. There are two adrenal glands that sit on the throne and rule our bodies. These glands are involved in regulating virtually every aspect of our bodily functions. Below is a list of all the body’s functions these glands play a role in regulating.

Adrenal Exhaustion & Failure
Alcohol Intolerance
Allergies & Sinus Problems
Anxiety
Blood Sugar Imbalances
Depression
Digestive Disorders
Diminished Sex Drive
Dizziness upon Standing
Dry & Thin Skin
Excessive Craving for Sweets
Fatigue
Food and/or Inhalant Allergies
Hair Loss
Headaches
Immune Deficiency
Inability to Concentrate
Indigestion
Infections (Parasitic, Bacterial, Fungal, or Viral)
Inflammation
Irritability
Liver, Thyroid or Pancreatic Disorders
Low Blood Pressure
Low Body Temperature
Mood Swings
Pain in the Neck, Shoulders, & Back
Palpitations (Heart Fluttering)
Poor Memory
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Sleep Disorders
Weakness/Difficulty Building Muscle
Weight Gain/Loss

Here we see the regulation in action:

Dental Implants

2011-12-16T11:18:00.000-08:00

Great information from http://www.webmd.com/ about dental implants-- Jill Wade

"What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are replacement tooth roots. Implants provide a strong foundation for fixed (permanent) or removable replacement teeth that are made to match your natural teeth.

What Are the Advantages of Dental Implants?

There are many advantages to dental implants, including:

*Improved appearance. Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth. And because they are designed to fuse with bone, they become permanent.
*Improved speech. With poor-fitting dentures, the teeth can slip within the mouth causing you to mumble or slur your words. Dental implants allow you to speak without the worry that your teeth might slip.
*Improved comfort. Because they become part of you, implants eliminate the discomfort of removable dentures.
*Easier eating. Sliding dentures can make chewing difficult. Dental implants function like your own teeth, allowing you to eat your favorite foods with confidence and without pain.
*Improved self-esteem. Dental implants can give you back your smile and help you feel better about yourself.
*Improved oral health. Dental implants don't require reducing other teeth, as a tooth-supported bridge does. Because nearby teeth are not altered to support the implant, more of your own teeth are left intact, improving your long-term oral health. Individual implants also allow easier access between teeth, improving oral hygiene.
*Durability. Implants are very durable and will last many years. With good care, many implants last a lifetime.
*Convenience. Removable dentures are just that; removable. Dental implants eliminate the embarrassing inconvenience of removing your dentures, as well as the need for messy adhesives to keep your dentures in place.

How Successful Are Dental Implants?
Success rates of dental implants vary, depending on where in the jaw the implants are placed but, in general, dental implants have a success rate of up to 98%.

What Is Involved in Getting a Dental Implant?

The first step in the dental implant process is the development of an individualized treatment plan. The plan addresses your specific needs and is prepared by a team of professionals who are specially trained and experienced in oral surgery and restorative dentistry. This team approach provides coordinated care based on the implant option that is best for you.

Next, the tooth root implant, which is a small post made of titanium, is placed into the bone socket of the missing tooth. As the jawbone heals, it grows around the implanted metal post, anchoring it securely in the jaw. The healing process can take from 6 to 12 weeks.

Once the implant has bonded to the jawbone, a small connector post - called an abutment - is attached to the post to securely hold the new tooth. To make your new tooth or teeth, your dentist makes impressions of your teeth, and creates a model of your bite (which captures all of your teeth, their type, and arrangement). Your new tooth or teeth are based on this model. A replacement tooth, called a crown, is then attached to the abutment.

Instead of one or more individual crowns, some patients may have attachments placed on the implant that retain and support a removable denture.

Your dentist also will match the color of your new teeth to your natural teeth. Because the implant is secured within the jawbone, the replacement teeth look, feel, and function just like your own natural teeth.

How Painful Are Dental Implants?

Most people who have received dental implants say that there is very little discomfort involved in the procedure. Local anesthesia can be used during the procedure, and most patients report that implants involve less pain than a tooth extraction.
After the dental implant, mild soreness can be treated with over-the-counter pain medications, such as Tylenol or Motrin.

How Do I Care for Dental Implants?
Dental implants require the same care as real teeth, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups."

Invisalign

2011-12-02T11:34:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share this great information from http://www.invisalign.com/ for any of you interested in Invisalign. We offer it at the office and our patients are having great results!

-Jill Wade

"Invisalign takes a modern approach to straightening teeth, using a custom-made series of aligners created for you and only you. These aligner trays are made of smooth, comfortable and virtually invisible plastic that you simply wear over your teeth. Wearing the aligners will gradually and gently shift your teeth into place, based on the exact movements your dentist or orthodontist plans out for you. There are no metal brackets to attach and no wires to tighten. You simply pop in a new set of aligners approximately every two weeks, until your treatment is complete and you achieve the confident smile that you've always wanted. The best part about the whole process is that most people won't even know you're straightening your teeth.

Sure, there are other options out there for straightening your teeth, but none offers the level of comfort, convenience and confidence that you'll find with Invisalign. And no matter what stage you're at in life, you'll appreciate how our cutting-edge approach to treatment has minimal interference in how you live, but has a significant positive impact on how you look and feel about yourself.

You may be surprised to know that the benefits of having properly aligned teeth extend far beyond a confident smile. According to the American Dental Association, straightening your teeth can actually significantly affect your overall dental health.1 Think about it—a smile can hardly be perfect if it's not a healthy one. Fortunately, with Invisalign, having a confident smile and reducing your risk for tooth decay and gum disease go hand in hand.

HEALTHIER TEETH AND GUMS
Swollen, red gums can often be the result of having teeth that are crowded or too widely spaced. Unfortunately, these are also signs of periodontal disease. When teeth are properly aligned, it helps the gums fit more securely around the teeth, allowing for the strongest and healthiest defense against potential periodontal problems. That’s where Invisalign comes in. The comfortable and clear aligners gently and gradually begin to move your teeth into the proper position - without unsightly brackets and wires.

EASIER CLEANING
One of the biggest challenges of having braces is removing all the food that gets trapped in the brackets and wires. This can often lead to plaque buildup and eventually tooth decay. With Invisalign, the aligners are removable, so it’s easy to continue brushing and flossing your teeth the way you normally do.

OVERALL HEALTH
Think of your teeth as a window to the health of your body. Your teeth and gums - and how they look to others when you smile—say a lot about your overall health. If you're taking good care of both, you're probably taking good care of the rest of you.

Tooth decay and gum disease are caused by bacteria. Left untreated, they can cause mouth sores, tender or bleeding gums, bad breath, and possible tooth loss. Studies by the American Dental Association have shown that oral infections can also lead to other more serious ailments such as heart disease, stroke, pneumonia and diabetes. Invisalign aligners make daily oral hygiene easier, thus reducing the risk of possible problems. And correctly aligned teeth can also alleviate the issues that can be caused by an improper bite, speech or chewing difficulties, jaw problems, and increased wear on the tooth enamel. Invisalign effectively addresses all of these orthodontic issues, so you'll have the confidence of a great smile and increase the likelihood of improved oral health."

Strep Throat

2011-11-17T13:27:00.000-08:00

I found this at www.dhinfo.org and thought it was really interesting. I have seen a huge increase in the number of people getting strep lately. A few tips I recommend are:

Throw your toothbrush away after recovering from strep, or any illness for that matter. If you have a Sonicare or another type of electric toothbrush, it is a good idea to sanitize the head or replace it.

Sanitize your night guard and/or retainer. Be sure and use cold water, not hot, and only use a few drops of bleach to a cup of water. Soak for less than 5 minutes then rinse well.

Don't let anyone eat or drink after you, even kiddos or your spouse. These pesky germs are very contagious.

Enjoy this great article and stay healthy! Dr. Wade

"Streptococcus was first discovered in 19th century, the name was derived from Greek (strep: chain and coccus: round), which describes how the bacteria grow in pearl-like chains. There are many species of streptococcus and they can cause many kinds of diseases like kidney disease, rheumatic fever and impetigo. In fact, people with pneumonia may be infected with one of eighty types of pneumonia-causing streptococcus bacteria. Sore throat symptoms are caused by three types of streptococcus bacteria. It can be treated effectively with antibiotics, however to prevent antibiotics resistance, the treatment should be focused for symptomatic relief.

Symptoms
When diagnosing strep throat, doctors look for four most common symptoms and when three of these symptoms are present, then the diagnosis can be positive.
• Redness of the throat
• Swelling and white patches on the tonsils
• Swollen glands under the chin or on either side of the throat
• Painful throat

Stomach pain, chills and headache can also be considered as strep throat symptoms. However, nasal congestion and cough are usually not present. If the symptoms appear to be quite severe, the cause could be virus instead of streptococcus.

Diagnosis
Unlike common flu or cold, diagnosis for strep throat may call for additional information. A classic test is called the “throat culture”, in which fluid sample from the back of your throat are taken with cotton swab for lab analysis. The result should be available in 48 hours. The test was first performed in 1954 and since then was regularly used as a tool to diagnose strep throat.

Treatment
Antibiotic penicillin is still the gold standard of streptococcus treatment. It can be prescribed as 10-day course of oral drugs or a single shot. Patients with penicillin allergy may be given erythromycin. If no improvements are detected after seven days, additional testing is required. Severe sore throat that won’t improve after one week of antibiotics treatment could actually be an Epstein-Barr virus infection. Strep throat normally lasts for one week, but tonsils and glands may need two or three weeks to return to their normal state. The enlarged tonsils and glands may cause uncomfortable sensations.

In the 1980’s about 36 millions cultures were tested annually in the laboratories, since then the number of throat cultures has dropped significantly, since better or faster diagnostic methods were introduced. Among the newest tests is rapid antigen test or RAT, which allows doctors to test for the presence of streptococcus antigen in their offices. A doctor still also needs to take a liquid sample from the throat using a cotton swab. The swab will be inserted to a solution to detect the presence of certain antibodies that fight streptococcus Group A.

Unfortunately, RAT is not as reliable as throat culture, which may make false negatives more likely to happen. Put differently, it may indicate that strep throat is not a problem when in reality it causes an infection. However, because it is less expensive and faster, RAT is still used for preliminary test. When it is positive, the patient will be treated with antibiotics for Group A streptococcus and if it is negative, throat culture is performed. Experts advocate that throat culture should be considered as a gold standard in strep throat diagnosis. Although it takes 48 hours to get a definite result, two-day delay won’t increase the rheumatic disease risk, because it takes about 9 days after the first onset, for the complications to occur. If the patient is particularly uncomfortable, the doctor may immediately give the antibiotic treatment.

Transmission
Streptococcus is airborne bacteria, which can infect people through droplets. Additionally, this tenacious microorganism can spread by skin contacts. In school and dorms, strep is often a problem. Children are more vulnerable to strep, due to less developed immune, frequent physical contacts with friends and lack of awareness on hygiene. Streptococcus can also contaminate food, which causes sore throat and fever. If the strep throat outbreak is frequent in your community or family, then there could be a carrier. Carriers are healthy-looking people who were previously under-treated for strep infections, as the result they can still spread the bacteria to others. It is still debatable how a person can remain infectious after he is treated with antibiotics. Streptococcus bacteria shed more quickly on adults but can continue longer on children.

Prevention
Just like any other bacteria, strep is vulnerable to antibacterial agents. During an outbreak, you should wash your hands with antiseptic soaps, regardless of whether you’re already contracted strep throat or not. Additionally, pediatricians recommend that the whole family should be protected with antibiotics if a family member has strep throat.

Complications
Rheumatic fever is a serious heart complication of strep throat. The complication can occur between one to five weeks after the first onset, as the invading bacteria cause widespread inflammation. Inflammation occurs when patient’s own tissue and bacteria cell walls cross-react. It can cause swelling in the joints and discomfort, which mimic the symptoms of regular rheumatic. Unfortunately, the bacteria can also infect myocardium, an important heart muscle. When valves of the heart are affected by rheumatic fever, they can be permanently scarred during the healing process. Consequently, heart works less efficiently and tends to swell. To make matter worse, some particularly vulnerable individuals may have frequent relapses. Each time, the heart and joints can be damaged even more, which can cause death due to heart failure.

A few decades ago, rheumatic fever was common in many parts of the world. Many hospitals run a special rheumatic fever clinic, where people who had recovered would get long-acting penicillin injection every two weeks to prevent a relapse. Children were asked to take antibiotics regularly until they were 20 years old, when a more developed immune system can defeat strep completely.

Today, rheumatic fever has declined significantly in most parts of the world and even in developed countries with the best medical care available, it still occurs.
Another complication of strep throat is a deadly kidney disease called glomerulonephritis, which is actually an immune response to strep bacteria infection. Antibodies work by swallowing the invading bacteria and the resulting mass can clog up the kidneys’ filtering channels (glomeruli). The less efficient kidney may cause debris to build up and prevent normal kidney functions. Common symptoms of glomerulonephritis are hypertension, bloody urine and swelling. Often, dialysis is performed until the antibiotics treatment can bring the situation under control. Antibiotics treatment within seven days after the onset can effectively prevent these complications."

Salivary Diagnostics

2011-11-10T20:24:00.000-08:00

Great Article! -Jill Wade

Inside Dentistry, July/August 2011 Issue.

"Salivary diagnostics involves routine and advanced techniques for laboratory testing, with the goal of using saliva as the sample source to identify disease, or for preventing disease and evaluating the risk of disease. However, never to be overlooked is the careful and expert clinical examination. In this day and age, the clinical examination is improved by incorporating digital photography to document and highlight observations from the operatory suite. These images can, in turn, be transmitted to experts via the Internet to create a medium for consultation in real time.

Presently, several areas of research purport that novel proteins, shed or secreted from cells throughout the body, can be measured in saliva. These include markers indicative of breast and pancreatic cancer, cardiovascular disease, incipient infection, and metabolic disorders such as diabetes mellitus. Because of the ease in collection, transport, and storage, it is likely that with further refinement of such molecular and biochemical tests, saliva will be the sample of choice for many screening and diagnostic programs.

Beyond using salivary diagnostics for diagnosing disease is the issue of testing patients “at risk” for disease. This distinction is not subtle. New testing technologies, such as PCR for molecular genetics, or mass spectroscopy for protein analysis, reach levels of sensitivity that go below those required to offer treatment, but at the same time identify people who should be counseled about changes in their lives that can prevent disease from developing. Two examples illustrate this point.

The causes of periodontitis continue to be debated. However, the following two—bacteria and inflammation—are at least known to be involved. Testing for mediators of inflammation, such as cytokines, is not yet available for routine clinical testing, but testing for the genetic markers of high or lower levels of cytokine release is. Therefore, testing patients for variance in the genetic sequences for the interleukin 1 genes classifies patients both with and without bacterial periodontitis into those at high or low risk of this causative factor in disease. This is a powerful vantage for practitioners who seek to promote patient wellness, as well as serve their interest to cure the patient who is sick.

Testing for oral HPV shares a similar vantage of better serving individuals at risk for developing oral cancer than those who already host a lesion on its way to becoming a tumor. HPV testing, by virtue of the sensitivity of the testing methodology, identifies individuals who are at risk of epithelial lesions because it is one of the prerequisite factors that cause hyperplastic growth of infected cells. However, relatively few patients with HPV infection progress, and the virus typically will “become quiet.” With a greater focus on identifying risk and less on confirming a diagnosis, HPV testing is one area where the clinician shows their concern by practicing preventive medicine.

Salivary diagnostics implies the use of tests that are highly sensitive and are thus capable of finding disease before it is detectable by other modalities. In some situations, the effect of this extraordinary sensitivity leaves the clinician without a specific action plan other than to prescribe necessary follow-up, and/or watch and wait. This is a situation where clinicians and patients may become frustrated by dealing with information that places new responsibilities on each, while not relying on a therapy to solve the problem.

For patients coping with test results that project disease risk, the goal to avoid sickness falls on their shoulders. In general, the patient’s responsibility will be centered on changes in lifestyle, diet, exercise, and the obligation to follow-up and watch for changes. This is well exemplified by tests that look for markers of incipient cardiovascular disease, such as C-reactive protein (CRP). CRP levels are measured in the blood or saliva, and elevated levels indicate a heightened state of inflammation that accelerates the progression of atherosclerosis.

For the doctor, practicing preventive medicine means more time committed to patient education and counseling. Ordering CRP levels of patients creates a need for time between clinician and patient focused on what these tests are and what to do to change their values, which is generally about changes that promote good health overall (eg, weight reduction, lowered fat in the diet, and improved periodontal care). In this example, CRP as a marker of cardiovascular health creates the obligation to talk with patients about things outside the office and on matters where there is very little control over the outcome.

The laboratory is a service business. In recent years, innovations in cellular and molecular technology have brought advanced science into the clinical arena, where the type of information created requires better means of communicating those data. For the laboratory, employing genetic counselors and clinical specialists to liaison with the doctor’s office are required to shoulder the ongoing need for educating and updating on the use of these tests.

For the clinician, the best way to incorporate these new technologies is to allow the laboratory to provide these services. Salivary diagnostic testing is a new area of medicine, and many of the standards of practice are not yet established. Using these new types of tests raises concerns by clinicians, who feel they are untrained in subjects now being examined by these tests, and indicates a greater need for doctors and laboratory experts to work together in consultation."

Heart Health in America

2011-11-03T13:17:00.000-07:00

I found this information at http://www.heart.org/ and it is scary and insightful. Please join Stonebriar Smile Design in focusing on our health (especially heart health). We are working with the AHA Dallas location and look forward to raising money and awareness for this worthy cause.

-Jill Wade

A Look at Heart Health in America

Nearly four in ten American adults believe they have ideal heart health (39%).

Less than one in ten believes they have poor heart health (5%).

The majority of adults have visited a doctor or health care professional within the past year (80%).

70% of Americans report being told to make lifestyle changes by a doctor or other health care professional.

One third report being told each to exercise more (35%) and that they are overweight (33%).

One in five adults report currently being a smoker (19%).

Fewer than two in ten American adults (15%) achieve AHA’s recommended levels of moderate aerobic exercise, which is 150+ total minutes per week.

For more than four of ten adults, eating 9 servings of fruits and veggies (44%) or eating fish at least 2 times per week (45%) is a rare activity.

Heart disease and stroke affect everyone in this country-- your neighbors, loved ones and even you. But beating these deadly diseases doesn't have to mean radical fad diets and crazy exercise trends that are only temporary fixes. A long life of heart health is about taking small steps each day to change how you eat and live. As those small steps add up, one day you will realize you've changed your life, and perhaps the life of those you love, for the better.

This is exactly what the Stonebrair Smile Design team wants for each of you! We want to help change these numbers for the better. Last year, the American Heart Association launched an ambitious impact goal to get our nation on the road to better heart health. By 2020, the AHA wants to improve the cardiovascular health of Americans by 20% while reducing the deaths from cardiovascular diseases and stroke by 20%.

So stay tuned for activities we will hold and stay aware, informed and involved. We would love for you to join us for such an important cause!

The Scary Side of Candy

2011-10-27T16:37:00.000-07:00

Halloween is just a few days away and you know what that means- candy galore! As a dentist, candy is not the best choice for your teeth. However, I love these sweet treats just as much as most kids do! A few things to keep in mind while enjoying your trick-or-treating goodies are:

Avoid or limit candy such as caramels, candy corn, jelly beans, and taffy. These particular candies are extra sticky, making it hard for saliva to wash away the sugar.

Give your kids sugar free gum to chew. Not only does sugar-free gum help prevent cavities, it also helps neutralize the effects of sugar from the candy and therefore, it combats the bacteria in plaque that causes cavities.

After enjoying candy make sure to brush and floss your teeth. Cavities occur not from the sugar in the candy but from the bacteria which feeds on sugars that are not removed from your teeth when you brush and floss.

Believe it or not, pixie sticks are some of the safest Halloween treats out there.
Pixie Stix are typically poured directly onto the tongue, avoiding chewing and your teeth altogether. They are then quickly consumed and out of the mouth before any major damage can been done. So while it may not make sense, those sacks of sugar may be the best candy for your teeth.

Stay away from the sour stuff! According to WebMD, "Dentists’ worst nightmare: ultra-sour, ultra-sticky, ultra-sugary kids’ candies such as Warheads and Toxic Waste. Even sour gummy vitamins can be culprits. 'These sour candies, when tested, have a really low pH, nearing battery acid,' says Robyn Loewen, DDS, a fellow in the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and a diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. 'I liken it to an ice cube that’s been left on the counter. It melts the tooth. To make matters worse, children’s tooth enamel isn’t mature until a decade after their teeth erupt, Loewen says. Because it’s softer, it’s more susceptible to the acid.'"

After helping your kiddos sort through their goodies, let them enjoy some of their treats, but all at one time. It is better to let them have several pieces at once and then put the candy away and brush their teeth rather than allow them to spread it out over time and let the sugar stay on their teeth and in their little mouths. Come up with a plan about how many pieces they can have a day after Halloween and maybe even consider donating some to a local charity.

Halloween is such a fun time and we want you and your kiddos to enjoy every minute of it. Just be careful with the kind of candy they are eating and how long their splurges last! I know my girls will be focused on Skittles and lollipops, their favorites!

Happy Halloween! Dr. Wade

New Links in the Oral-Systemic Connection

2011-10-20T18:28:00.000-07:00

Another great article to share from this month's addition of Inside Dentistry. -Jill

Current research shows that the role of periodontal disease may have even more of an impact on overall health than previously thought.

By Allison M. DiMatteo, BA, MPS

Since Inside Dentistry launched its first issue in 2005, its publishers, editors, and staff have continued to conscientiously cover ongoing research associating conditions in the oral cavity with systemic effects throughout the body. Much has been learned since then regarding the link between periodontal pathogens and diseases affecting the heart, lungs, blood sugar levels, pregnancy, and other areas remote from the mouth. Once considered separate from the body, the oral environment is gaining acceptance as a reflection of an individual’s overall health.
“We are learning more and more about how the mouth is connected to the rest of the body,” says Donald S. Clem, DDS. “Therefore, it is crucial that as dental professionals we understand that periodontal disease may have a broader significance to overall health than previously believed.”

For example, Clem notes that current research makes it evident that respiratory disease must be added to the growing list of systemic, inflammatory disease states that may be impacted by periodontal disease. Other research points to possible links between gum disease and anemia, suggesting that proteins produced as a result of chronic periodontitis negatively react with the blood and decrease red blood cell production.1 Different studies suggest that women with tooth loss caused by gum disease may experience higher incidences of breast cancer.2 Poor oral care also has been associated with memory loss and dementia, with researchers determining that study participants with the least number of natural teeth were at higher risk of memory loss and early onset Alzheimer’s disease.3 While the nature of these associations has been hypothesized, further research is needed to clarify and validate the association, as well as more clearly determine causality.

“The emerging concept of systems biology fundamentally states that no part of our body is in isolation,” notes David T.W. Wong, DMD, DMSc. “All parts are connected, despite the fact that we do not yet have readily the mechanistic underpinnings. The fact that we have been able to harness and develop salivary biomarker panels for systemic diseases including pancreatic, breast, and lung cancers substantiates this central concept.”

The significance of oral and systemic associations is significant not only to quality of health issues, but also quality of life issues. For example, burning mouth syndrome—which research suggests may be linked to systemic conditions—affects quality of life, not life or death, for 5% of the population, explains Gary D. Klasser, DMD. “The more the association between systemic conditions and the oral environment is brought to both the public’s attention and politician’s attention, hopefully more money for more research will be devoted to this particular aspect,” Klasser hopes. “As it relates to burning mouth syndrome, the more that individuals write about this particular subject, the greater the potential for funding availability and more research, because it is very difficult, if not impossible, to do research without funding.”

This month, Inside Dentistry presents updates and current research initiatives underway to further the healthcare profession’s understanding of the connection between oral and systemic diseases. Our experts this month are those conducting the research themselves, or who have served as a conduit to disseminate and help apply that research within the dental profession. For their time and passionate dedication to pursuing a greater understanding of the association between oral and systemic conditions, we extend our sincere gratitude.

Conclusion:
According to Clem, it is no longer good enough to “watch a couple of trouble spots.” Rather, controlling periodontal disease will become an integral part of controlling a patient’s overall inflammatory burden, he says.“Our patients are not healthy unless they are periodontally healthy,” Clem notes. “I think the most important issue or message here is that although in the past dentists focused on saving teeth and keeping them healthy, today we now have a broader dimension for why it is more important to maintain a healthy mouth,” Bissada explains. “If you have an inflammatory condition, which the most popular example here is periodontal disease, it puts the individual at a higher risk for a more serious systemic problem, whether it’s heart problems, diabetes, or rheumatoid arthritis. As we take care of the mouth, not only do we save teeth, which is a very good objective, but we also protect our general health.”

Bissada’s current research involving links between prostatitis and periodontitis is similar to previous research he and his associates conducted on rheumatoid arthritis, in which patients with rheumatoid arthritis were treated for periodontal disease by eliminating the inflammation. The signs of very severe rheumatoid arthritis in those patients were reduced to a significant level, he says. They are repeating the process relative to the prostate.

Brown believes that dental researchers should partner with health economists to increase the speed at which their field moves forward, since they have content, clinical expertise, and drive the research agenda. Health economists have a technical toolbox unrivaled in the social sciences and can use this toolbox to help push the research agenda established by dental researchers forward at much faster pace than would otherwise be possible, he adds.

“While the mechanistic rationale for salivary biomarkers for oral diseases are well in place, the rationale for systemic diseases is not. It is in this light that the scientific community must engage in collaborative efforts to study, determine, and establish the scientific underpinning of systemic disease detection in saliva,” Wong emphasizes. “It is only when the scientific connectivity and the definitive clinical validation of salivary biomarkers for a systemic disease combine that the credibility of salivary diagnostics for systemic diseases will be acceptable by the scientific communities.”

Burning Mouth Syndrome Linked to Menopause

2011-10-14T06:57:00.000-07:00

I found this article in Inside Dentistry October 2011 and thought it was too good not to share!

Burning Mouth Syndrome Linked to Menopause
By Gary D. Klasser, DMD

According to our recently published study in the May/June issue of General Dentistry, burning mouth syndrome (BMS) may be related to nerve damage during menopause. The study indicated that nearly 5% of Americans experience the symptoms of BMS, a burning sensation on the roof of the mouth and the tongue, and that menopausal and post-menopausal women are most likely to be affected 7:1. We attributed this statistic to the fact that hormonal changes during menopause can result in BMS and also affect pain perception in women.

Due to the lack of physical symptoms, many study participants suffered from BMS for many years without being diagnosed. The most startling fact revealed in the research is the time lag for these individuals who suffer with burning mouth syndrome between the initial onset of a burning sensation in their mouths to the time it was definitively diagnosed, which was a mean of 41 months. Considering these individuals saw multiple healthcare practitioners, were prescribed medications—some appropriate for the treatment of burning mouth syndrome and some totally inappropriate—you can understand the frustration they must have been feeling with the healthcare community.

Certainly BMS is a diagnosis of exclusion. People present with oral burning sensations, and it is up to the practitioner to determine why they have them. First, local factors must be ruled out, then systemic factors, and, finally, potentially psychological factors and maybe certain selective medications that may be implicated in causing burning mouth. Once all of those factors are ruled out, then a diagnosis of primary BMS—for which no etiological reason is found—can be made. A diagnosis of secondary BMS is attributed to when there is an etiological reason for the burning, such as systemic factors like menopause.

We do not know what causes BMS, but we do have some theories that might explain why individuals have it. One of the startling facts that we see in BMS is that it seems to be a female-dominated condition. The ratio of women to men suffering from BMS can be anywhere from 7:1. It also seems to be a perimenopausal disorder, where most of the individuals who complain about BMS seem to be in the age range of 3 years prior to menopause, up to 12 years post-menopause. So clearly there is a menopausal component to this.

It seems that BMS may follow damage to taste, suggesting a taste/BMS interaction. Anything that causes damage to taste may in fact cause BMS and one of the potential factors damaging taste is a decrease in estrogen levels, which is associated with menopause. Taste is served by three cranial nerves (ie, 7, 9, and 10), and if there is some taste damage in those nerves, that sometimes can precipitate a loss of inhibition in cranial nerve 5, which is important for a pain sensation. So, the mechanism for BMS may very well be a neuropathic condition caused by miscommunication between the nerves and brain that results in a failure to turn off the oral pain receptors. Because the receptors do not turn off, BMS sufferers experience a burning sensation, a dry and gritty feeling in the mouth, and a change in taste.

We’re still in our infancy in understanding this syndrome. We label anybody who fits the criteria of what one considers primary burning mouth syndrome, but there are several subgroups of BMS and several theories as to why somebody has it. What is needed is a very large database to start phasing out the various categories of the subgroups in the field of BMS in order to understand the etiology and pathophysiological processes that do not fit the overall domain of BMS but maybe explain the different subcategories. If we can explain the different subcategories, then maybe we can begin targeting our interventions, rather than using a shotgun approach.

Stonebriar Smile Design Honors World Heart Day 2011

2011-09-23T08:30:00.000-07:00

Dr. Wade and the Stonebriar Smile Design team hope to help inform people that cardiovascular diseases are the world’s largest killers, claiming 17.3 million lives a year. Risk factors for heart disease and stroke include raised blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose levels, smoking, inadequate intake of fruit and vegetables, overweight, obesity and physical inactivity.

New science supports the link of periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease. Dr. Wade hopes to use her dental experience and continued education in raising awareness for her patients and in the community to help save lives.

DO YOU:

HAVE FAMILY HISTORY OF HEART ATTACK, STROKE, AND DIABETES

HAVE UNCONTROLLED DIABETES

HAVE HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

HAVE TROUBLE RESPONDING TO YOUR TREATMENT PROTOCOL FOR
CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE AS EXPECTED BY YOUR PHYSICIAN

HAVE BAD BREATH

HAVE FAMILY HISTORY OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Diagnostic DNA Saliva Testing can highlight a hereditary predisposition for periodontal disease and the clinical relevance to cardiovascular disease, diabetes and stroke.

Stonebriar Smile Design will offer the DNA saliva testing to non-patient's on Thursday, September 29th, at a reduced fee in recognition of World Heart Day.

Call 972-377-7800 to reserve a time or visit www.stonebriarsmiledesign.com for more information.

VELscope Oral Cancer Screening System

2011-09-21T17:15:00.000-07:00

What Is The Velscope?

The Velscope is an early oral cancer detection device, used in combination with traditional oral cancer examination procedures. The Velscope allows your health care professional to visualize mucosa (tissue inside the mouth) abnormalities that may require biopsy. Velscope, by detecting pre-cancerous lesions early, may save thousands of lives.

Oral Cancer Facts:

Every hour of every day, oral cancer kills someone in the U.S. In the past 30 years, there has been a 60% increase in oral cancer in adults under the age of 40. Oral cancer is the only cancer that has not shown a decrease in the mortality rate in over 30 years.

48% of patients diagnosed with oral cancer, die within 5 years. Early Diagnosis will save lives and if caught early enough....the 5-year survival rate can be as high as 81%.

How does Velscope benefit?

Existing screening protocol usually finds potentially abnormal cells only on the surface (visible to the eye). Currently, almost 2/3 of oral cancer cases are diagnosed in the late stages. Velscope can show abnormal tissue below the surface, even before they become apparent to the clinicians eye. This is a huge benefit because oral cancer found in its early stages can increase (by 81%) the survival rate.

A dentist can use the velscope as a screening tool to allow a more informed decision in determining whether an area of suspicion should be biopsied. This is nice for the patient because it eliminates the need to biopsy something that is benign.

Fluorescence is the energy expelled by cells after absorbing a high energy input before they return to their normal energy level. Velscope emits a safe, high energy blue light that excites the tissues beneath the surface down to the basement membrane. As the tissues return to normal energy levels, the tissues re-emits the absorbed energy in the form of fluorescence. Special optical filters in the Velscope hand piece enable the clinician to immediately view the different fluorescence patterns emitted by the tissue, which can be used as an additional diagnostic tool to help differentiate between normal and abnormal cells. Typically, healthy tissue shows up with a green glow and the abnormal suspicious tissue may cause a loss of fluorescence and thus appear dark. The Velscope examination takes less than 3 minutes and does not require any rinses or stains.

Electric vs. Manual Toothbrushes

2011-09-17T08:55:00.000-07:00

Electric toothbrushes are superior to ordinary manual toothbrushes in every aspect. Electric toothbrushes have high powered bristles that dislodges more plaque faster and more thoroughly than manual toothbrushes. The electric toothbrush cleans away more plaque in two minutes compared to manual brushing in 6 minutes.

Switching to an electric toothbrush can help prevent tooth and gum diseases such as cavities and gingivitis. With high speed cleaning and complex designs, electric toothbrushes are capable of conquering areas that are normally hard to reach as behind the molars and near the gum line.

Electric toothbrushes are also great for people who face dexterity problems or other illnesses which affect motor skills such as arthritis and rheumatism. I recommend Sonicare and that is what we sell in our office. We also have the the children's version, which is easy and fun for the kids to use and much better at cleaning their little mouths. My girls love theirs!

Clinical tests and surveys have proven electric toothbrushes to be indispensable hygiene devices. The American Dental Association published positive survey results for 16,000 patients who were asked to replace manual brushing with mechanical brushing. More than 80 percent of the patients reported improved oral cleanliness with the switch from manual to powered brushing.

Some people are too used to the old mode of cleaning and may not switch to an electric toothbrush. However, it is undeniable that most individuals fare better on electric toothbrushes. Electric toothbrushes allows them to clear more plaque in a shorter span of time which is especially beneficial for people who find brushing a chore. With manual toothbrushes, you will have to throw out the entire toothbrush once its lifespan is up.

Whereas with electric toothbrushes, most of them come with rechargeable systems which only require you to change the brush head. Since electric toothbrushes produce less plastic waste and are becoming more affordable these days, electric toothbrushes are catching on as a popular life enhancing device for everyone.

Ask about our Sonicare toothbrushes and for a demonstration on how they work at your next cleaning.

Bounce

2011-09-09T15:10:00.001-07:00

I recently pulled down from my bookshelf a book called “Bounce” by Keith McFarland. It has been about a year since I've read it and I was amazed at how much I got out of it the second time reading it! So I want to share with you a few thoughts directly from the book. As a small business owner, I found this book to be inspirational and helpful. It reminded me that when times are tough for everybody that the successful businesses and happy owners will be the ones that can BOUNCE with the changing times.

"Bounce" by Keith McFarland

Chapter One : The Fundamental Rule: Be Willing to Change

“You’re here to have The Good Life. That’s why we’re all here. That’s the reason we have careers and build families and try so hard….I’m going to introduce you to the 8 rules for The Good Life.

1) The willingness to change. Recognizing the need to adapt to what’s going on around you. Nothing changes until you change. Once you change, everything changes.

2) The willingness to learn. A step-by-step guide to expanding your knowledge base. Nothing new in, nothing new out.

3) Getting to the why in life: the EAT plan. Training yourself to see new opportunities and understanding how to find the inspiration behind them.

4) The diminishing intent key: getting to why. Learning to act decisively on the important things. Those that focus on the how in life always end up working for those who focus on the why.

5) Choosing to be faithful. Appreciating what you have before you lose it.

6) Creating new habits. Breaking the cycle of bad habits and replacing them with good ones.

7) Sharing knowledge. Become an effective leader in your life. You are a leader if someone is depending one you.

8) Streamlining your life. Learning how to say no. You can’t grow in life until you learn to say no.”

Enjoy BOUNCING into change. Share with me any other books you find helpful in business or life.

Turn That Frown Upside Down

2011-08-26T11:31:00.000-07:00

"Turn that frown upside down" has a whole new meaning. You've likely been told that it takes fewer muscles to smile than it does to frown and there are quite a few numbers that get tossed around when this line is used. Some claim it takes 43 muscles to frown and 17 to smile but I am comfortable saying it takes far fewer muscles and less energy to smile and it is better for your soul.

It is also proven that forcing a smile when you don't feel happy does not actually lift your spirits. Research shows that people who fake a smile tend to worsen their mood. Trying to suppress something negative causes you to fixate on what is actually upsetting you. If you are not feeling happy, try to work on what is bothering you then grin intentionally, use fewer muscles and go on your merry way!

Our smile has no cultural barriers and is universally known as a sign of friendliness, especially when greeting someone. Frowns are generally recognized as indicating sadness or disapproval.

Humor is healthy and contagious! The sound of someones genuine laughter is far more contagious than a cold or stomach bug. When laughter is shared, it holds people together and increases happiness. Laughter has also been proven to trigger healthy changes in your body. Humor and laughter boost energy, reduce pain and strengthen your immune system. Best of all, this cure is fun, free and easy to use!

Laughter is a powerful antidote to stress, pain and conflict. Nothing works quicker to bring your mind and body back into balance than a good laugh. Humor lightens your burdens and keeps you connected with others. So live well, laugh often and showcase your pearly whites to improve your overall health and well-being.

Pucker Up (Or Maybe Don't!)

2011-07-26T16:50:00.000-07:00

The next time you lean in to give your spouse, significant other or child a kiss, you may want to consider the following. As much as 85 percent of the adult population has some level of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is the most common chronic infection known to man. It is considered a transmissible, infectious disease and is easily spread through kissing and sharing food or drinks. (All three things that most of us do daily!)

Early detection is key as the longer a person has gum disease, the more aggressive the bacteria becomes. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, if one person in the family is diagnosed with periodontal disease, the entire family should be evaluated. Keep in mind this is a highly contagious disease. No need to stop smooching those you love most, just be responsible and proactive!

Gum disease is an inflammatory disease, which is why it is so destructive to every organ and cell in your body. Controlling your gum disease is imperative for not only keeping your teeth but equally as important for your overall health. The bacteria that cause gum disease can spread from your mouth to the rest of your body. Research has shown direct links between gum disease and premature birth, heart attacks, strokes and lung and kidney disease. This disease may also be a factor in multiple cancers and even Alzheimer's disease. Periodontal disease can worsen diabetes and diabetes can worsen periodontal disease. This life threatening disease is often referred to as a silent disease until symptoms appear usually in its mid to late stages.

According to dental research, one-third of the population has a genetic marker for the disease. Anyone at any age can easily be tested for the genetic marker for periodontal disease through a simple DNA-PCR salivary test. Just because you are positive for the genetic marker does not mean you have to lose your teeth. It simply means you are at a higher risk for gum disease and might have to work a little harder from preventing it.

If you are diagnosed with periodontal disease, another important thing to test is the specific bacteria which are causing your disease. This can be tested through the bacterial DNA salivary test. By knowing which specific bacteria is contaminating your mouth and infects your bloodstream, the disease can be better managed, healing is accelerated and long-term complications are minimized.

Proper nutrition along with the proper nutritional supplements help boost the entire immune system and nourish the oral soft tissues when necessary. Soft tissue in the mouth is the most vulnerable tissue in the body and any periodontal bacteria living in the mouth are some of the most aggressive of anywhere in the body.

Along with a medical consultation, simple testing and nutritional support, proper gum therapy removes calcified debris on root surfaces. This treatment helps reduce inflammation and the depth of pockets between the teeth and gums.

Once you have been diagnosed with gum disease you will always be at risk for reoccurring. However, with the proper testing, treatment and maintenance- you will remain kissable, healthy and safe to those who love you the most!

Sneeze = Heart Disease?

2011-07-15T10:58:00.000-07:00

Every time you cough, sneeze or even share a drink or kiss with someone, you are at risk for salivary transmission. The exchange of periodontal pathogens between family members has now been proven. Vertical transmission from parents to children and horizontal transmission between spouses occurs in up to 75 % of cases. (Depending on the specific pathogen)

The presence of periodontal pathogens and disease can be an indicator of heart disease. Yes, you read correctly! Disease detected in your mouth by your dentist can be a sign of disease in your heart. Your mouth truly is the window into the rest of your body and many people find it hard to make the connection with bacteria, infection or disease in your mouth equally being sick.

According to the American Academy of Periodontology, people with periodontal disease are twice as likely to have coronary artery disease (heart disease). And one study found that the presence of common problems in the mouth, including gum disease (gingivitis), cavities and missing teeth, were as good as predicting heart disease as cholesterol levels.

So the next time you sneeze or cough, remember to cover your nose and/or mouth. You could literally be saving the lives of those around you.

Sleep Like A Fairytale Princess

2011-05-26T17:18:00.000-07:00

Julian lived a fairytale life. She was married to her Prince Charming, lived in a modest castle, had a little prince and princess, and a fulfilling career running her empire. She was only missing one thing: a good night’s sleep. She longed to sleep like she had been put under a spell, to wake up feeling fantastic, rested and ready to face the world. Can you relate to Julian? Are you one of many that cannot even remember the last time you experienced a full night of sound sleep?

Trouble with sleep is one of the most common symptoms of a person who has an incomplete “Circle of Health.” When one organ or gland is not functioning properly, other glands have to act as a backup, especially the adrenal glands. After a while, the body begins to shut down if it cannot get what it needs. Your body will try very hard to naturally heal itself. The only way you have a chance to heal is to sleep. So, if your sleep pattern is off, you cannot maintain optimal health.

A good night's sleep is often the best way to help you cope with stress, solve problems or recover from illness. Identify your sleep patterns by taking a look at some well-known icons that also had difficulties with their sleep cycles.

WHICH FAIRYTALE DESCRIBES YOUR SLEEPING?

Sleeping Beauty enjoys 8 to 10 hours of sound, uninterrupted sleep each night, like a spell has been placed on her. She experiences ideal, deep, and restful sleep, while dreaming about wonderful moments to come. She wakes up feeling refreshed and ready for the beautiful day ahead.

Sleeping Beauty has a complete “Circle of Health.” Her body heals and rebuilds itself as she sleeps. She maintains good health by practicing nutritional habits and moderate daily exercise.

A balanced lifestyle will help Sleeping Beauty achieve more out of life with prince charming and decrease the effects of natural aging. She will be well-prepared and rested for unexpected stress!

The Princess and the Pea sleeps very lightly. Any little noise awakens her. She can’t get comfortable, feels that pea underneath her mattress, and every ache and pain associated with it. She can’t seem to get into a deeper sleep pattern. She’s at her wit’s end.

The Princess and the Pea has symptoms of adrenal fatigue from an over-stressed life. For example, a new mother, or a caretaker of an elderly or sick family member can have some of these same issues. Adrenal glands will be exhausted from the stress of daily activities, and sex hormones (estrogen and/or progesterone) are usually deficient in some manner. This makes sense since the adrenal glands, which provide our stress hormones, cannot back them up. Her “Circle of Health” has a couple of missing pieces that need to be corrected. She may be making poor nutritional choices and getting little to no exercise to help combat stress.

This princess would benefit from lifestyle changes, along with nutritional supplementation such as B & C vitamins and minerals. Testing for hormone levels of estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol and DHEA would identify deficiencies and supplementation with bio-identical hormones can replenish the deficiencies. With the right supplements, she could return to a life of peaceful slumber with her prince in a short period of time.

Cinderella before the ball is so excited she can hardly stand it. She is very anxious about all the details keeping her mind so busy and full of thoughts. She may not want to fall asleep because of all the excitement. She may fall asleep for a couple of hours, and then at the stroke of midnight awaken and spend the rest of the night tossing and turning while thinking…thinking…thinking about all the details dancing around in her head.

Cinderella is experiencing adrenal fatigue because of extended periods of anxiety and excitement about her busy life. This causes her sleep to be restless and dissatisfying. Her body and mind need sleep to heal and process thoughts properly. She worries about the details that she might be forgetting and is desperate for the sleep that she cannot attain. Her “Circle of Health” needs attention in key areas of imbalance.

Lifestyle changes such as making her bedtime routine more relaxing, foregoing the alcoholic nightcap and replacing it with a relaxing bath, creating a quiet, darkened environment and removing distractions such a television could all be beneficial. Hormone levels such as estrogen and progesterone should be tested, along with neurotransmitter levels such as dopamine, epinephrine and serotonin. Any deficiencies should be replaced along with good nutritional support, B vitamins and minerals. Some herbal relaxants like valerian root may help Cinderella feel drowsy. Having energy to go shopping for those glass slippers is right around the corner with proper testing and supplements, along with a few lifestyle changes.

Snow White and the poisoned apple are knocked out with medication because she has no other option. She is dependent on a sleep aid to fall asleep. She sleeps for 8-10 hours in what appears to be deep sleep but awakens feeling tired, unmotivated towards the day. She has no extra energy to take care of herself much less hardworking family and friends.

Snow White may be suffering from adrenal fatigue (too much stress), hormonal deficiencies (menopause), neurotransmitter imbalance, poor nutrition, and toxicities. There are numerous possibilities of what might be her underlying cause of insomnia. Appropriate testing is a must to find the exact answer of what will bring Snow White back to reality. More than likely she has a combination of hormone deficiencies intensified by adrenal gland exhaustion. Her endocrine system is the first place to look for testing, correction and support.

Snow White can barely get through life because she has no circadian rhythm or natural sleep pattern left. She has completely altered her body’s ability to achieve rest. She must make a huge lifestyle change to slowly get off her medications that are inhibiting her natural sleep patterns and must strive to find the reason she is not sleeping on her own. This could be stress, hormone deficiencies, nutritional or toxicity issues. She must work towards finding out what her real issues are regarding her “Circle of Health.” She is attacking her symptom of sleep disturbance with sleep aids, but not finding out the true cause of her problems. Consider an alternative sleep aid like melatonin. It may help reach the deeper layers of sleep without feeling drowsy. Achieving balance both mentally and physically will help restore Snow White to feeling like singing “High Ho,” and going off to work once again.

There are four main contributing factors of Sleep Disorders: lifestyle, health complications, medication side effects and clinical disorders.

Lifestyle contributors when dealing with sleep disorders are the late night use of caffeine or alcohol. Sporadic or late night bed times can disrupt your normal circadian rhythms. Health Complications can influence poor sleep like pregnancy, illness, or sleep apnea. It is hard to get sound-sleep while enduring these types of health changes. Medications both prescription and over the counter, can have the side effect of insomnia. Ironically, sleep medications can often exacerbate the exact problem they are designed to help. Clinical Disorders can represent asthmatics that have difficulty breathing, substance abusers, and depressed or highly stressed individuals.

In order to get a good night’s sleep, you need to look into your overall health and wellness. There is an underlying dysfunction that is contributing to your disrupted circadian rhythm. Sleepless nights can be a nightmare. If you dig deeper into your health, you can regain the life of your dreams.

About the Authors
Jill Wade, DDS, MAGD and Kelly Martin DC are committed to helping men and women find a natural approach to wellness. Dr. Martin and Dr. Wade explore the synergy between the entire body and the mouth being a window to wellness and alignment. Co-Founding Relevance Health was a combined effort to help men and women lead healthier, better lives. To learn more about a healthy “Circle of Health” visit www.relevancehealth.com.

Increase Your Potential by Improving Your Perception

2011-05-25T15:42:00.000-07:00

John was accustomed to having Super Hero status with his family, friends and business colleagues. He was handsome, strong, witty, fun-loving, and had been a motivated executive in his company for many years. Recently, as he was leaving a long day at work, he caught a glimpse of his reflection and was shocked at what he saw. He was unable to recognize the defeated, unhappy, overweight, and tired version of “Super Hero” John. He felt the weight of the world on his shoulders but was completely unmotivated to do anything about it. So he began to wonder … Is PERCEPTION the REFLECTION of what is going on inside of you?

Are you aware of how others perceive you? Are you reflecting health, vitality, strength, and mental sharpness? The message you may be sending out to the world may not be the one you would like. Your mind, body, and spirit are intricately connected and when well balanced, you are at your best. These days so many productive, hardworking business people are feeling the effects of long term stress such as, weight gain, lack of motivation, less energy, more irritation, less loving, and less tolerance.

Remember you only have one chance to make a great impression and sometimes perception is everything. You are your best asset and you may need to take time to focus on the Super Hero in you.

Which super hero are you reflecting?

Super Man – The ultimate hero is sharp, clear thinking, loving, energetic, fit and ready to help others. Success seems to come easy to both in his career and home-life. His stress and sex hormones are in balance; he exercises regularly and practices great nutritional habits. Superman sleeps deep and sound, waking up refreshed and ready to save the world. He is able to balance his drive and motivation with kindness and patience.

The Hulk- This hero is juiced up on steroids. He experiences “roid rage” at the smallest things, flying off the handle at work and at home. He works out consistently but doesn’t have the advantage of a balanced endocrine system. His nutrition is better than most; however, heavily weighted towards putting on muscle and keeping his protein intake adequate. Sometimes sleeping is a challenge if he is wired and his mind is racing. His stress glands (adrenals) are taking a beating by having to stay in fight or flight mode most of the time, this puts him at risk for decreased immunity and increased recovery time after hard workouts.

Homer Simpson-As lovable as Homer can be, he is definitely lacking some Super Hero qualities. He is over-weight, a heavy drinker, makes poor nutritional choices, is a couch potato, and unmotivated to set the world on fire at work. He has a pot-belly, abrasive personality, and is losing his hair! Good thing Marge loves him. At mid-life, Homer’s sex hormones are starting to decline, decreasing his libido, contributing to weight gain, making him grumpy, and unmotivated to get off the couch. His stress glands (adrenals) are probably fatigued due to poor nutrition, drinking, lack of exercise, and living with his son Bart.

Austin Powers-He is a shagadelic example of someone who has it going on internally, but his outer appearance is somewhat misleading. His libido is great; he is sharp, witty, brave, and for the most part physically fit. His hormones are balanced and he manages the stress in his life with flair. He makes decent food choices and doesn’t over-indulge in alcohol. He sleeps well with whomever he entices into bed with him. The only thing Austin needs is a power smile, haircut and a stylist! Others would perceive him as healthy and successful that much sooner with a few surface improvements.

So….how are you being perceived? Are you reflecting your health or the lack thereof? You can control your reflection for a while, until age or poor health take over. It is important to put your best foot forward in this world …. perception can be critical in a job hire, promotion, sale or deal. You can still be the Super Hero you were destined to be by taking a few crucial steps toward health.

Balancing your Circle of Health consists of four key components: hormones, nutrition, nervous system, and purification.

Hormones – As men age, hormones like testosterone and growth hormone start to naturally decline. If these imbalances are corrected, men may have the advantage of an increased libido, maintaining leanness and muscle mass, staying sharp and focused, and maintaining their edge at work.

Nutrition—Because every cellular activity in your body requires the proper nutrients, it is very important to feed yourself healthy food and quality supplements. You have to have the appropriate fuel, to operate as a super hero. For example, B vitamins are important for energy and the production of hormones; whereas, vitamin D3 is important for immunity and fighting cancer.

Nervous System—Proper levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine will keep moods even, tempers in check, creativity alive, and those around you happy. Proper amounts of amino acids are essential for neurotransmitter production. Supplements such as 5-HTP and amino acids, along with moderate exercise can improve your neurotransmitter levels.

Purification – A superhero’s world is full of toxicities. Preservatives in foods, pollution in air, lead in paint, aluminum in deodorant are examples of toxicities in all areas of life. Alcohol and prescription/non-prescription drugs can also be considered toxins. To perform at the highest level, purification of cleansing organs like the liver and kidneys is very beneficial.
Bring the super hero back…he is inside you, just waiting to bust out…who knows, someone may mistake you for Clark Kent!!!

About the Authors
Jill Wade, DDS, MAGD and Kelly Martin DC are committed to helping men and women find a natural approach to wellness. Dr. Martin and Dr. Wade explore the synergy between the entire body and the mouth being a window to wellness and alignment. Co-Founding Relevance Health was a combined effort to help men and women lead healthier, better lives. To learn more about a healthy “Circle of Health” visit www.relevancehealth.com.

reMODEL Smile

2011-03-27T14:25:00.000-07:00

A smile should exude confidence, health, and happiness. Perception of your emotional and physical health is influenced by your smile. What does your smile say? If a smile is worth a thousand words, make sure it tells the message you want. Your mouth is the window to your body and it gives many subtle hints to your age, stress level, and overall health. That is why maintaining your smile or enhancing your smile is critical. Looking and feeling your best comes from within. A reMODEL smile illuminates you in the best light. In Hollywood, a succesful career can be made with a better smile. In business, you want people to listen to what is coming out of your mouth. A powerful smile exudes confidence and makes people listen. In sales or healthcare professionals, your knowledge is proportionally based on the esthetics of your smile. If you want to be more successful, then your smile has to represent success. Cosmetic dentistry is an amazing way to lift your face value. The goal of a reMODEL Smile is to excude confidence, reflecting to your audience happiness and health.

Dr. Wade and Kelli are AMAZED with Invisalign

2010-08-26T08:39:00.000-07:00

Kelli is moving right along in her Invisalign. The changes that we are seeing are AMAZING!! The key to successful movement is wearing your aligners. This makes the teeth move to the correct position so that when you switch to your next aligner you do not have any problems. We can definitely tell when they are not being worn as much as they should be... :) Kelli has been doing a fabulous job wearing her aligners!!!

Here is what Kelli has to say about her Invisalign so far, "Ladies and gentlemen, I have just put on my fifth set of aligners!! This means that I'm half way done! I am really starting to see some major improvements. You know when you work out really hard for a couple of months, and you start seeing changes in your body and then you're motivated to keep going? That's what this feels like, except that it hasn't been work at all. Honestly, my last several trays have been pretty pain free, and I don't even notice when I have them on anymore. The whole process just seems be getting easier. Time is flying by! Oh, one thing...I think I am already seeing progress with what I've always called my "snaggle" tooth. Go ahead, look at the picture that's posted...see it? On my top left? That's the one that has always caused me to have a "bad side" in pictures....I won't take pictures from that side because that tooth has always stuck out so far that I was embarrassed. Well, low and behold, that tooth is moving back in line with the others!! I don't know if it's that noticeable to anyone else yet, but to me it is so encouraging because I am starting to see some subtle differences. To me, that's a reason to smile!

Here is a picture of where Kelli started and where she is today only after 4 aligners. Keep up the good work Kelli because your teeth are looking great! :)

Before

After 4 aligners (8 weeks)

Leave us a comment on how AMAZING her results are so far.

For more information about Invisalign visit our website at www.stonebriarsmiledesign.com or call the office at 972.377.7800.

Dr. Wade

Kelli's Invisalign with Dr. Wade is a Breeze!

2010-07-29T08:50:00.000-07:00

Kelli has been doing great in her Invisalign braces. We are already starting to see some changes! Kelli had a minor set back of a couple of days however it will make her future aligners fit better. Let me explain... Sometimes when you are wearing the Invisalign trays something will not make the complete movement. When this happens there will be a slight gap in the aligner, even if you have worn it for the full two weeks. We want to correct it so that with each new aligner you do not get off on the course of your treatment. This typically occurs when we are correcting teeth that are crowded on the upper or lower arch. To help the teeth move we will sometimes have to do Inter-Proximal Reduction (IPR). This lightens the contacts between the teeth slightly so that they can move to another position. This will help the tray seat all the way because the teeth can continue moving. This sometimes has to be done with traditional braces and does not damage the teeth.

Here is what Kelli had to say about the first couple of weeks in her Invisalign: "I've seen several of my friends and no one has made any comments about my new aligners. To me, that's amazing. I even went to visit my parents and they didn't notice! My teeth felt a little bit tight for the first two days, but after that, I barely even notice that I have my aligners on.

I had some tight spaces between a few teeth, so Dr. Wade filed them out a little bit which was a strange sensation, let me tell ya! Don't worry, though....no pain at all. I'm going to wear my first set of aligners for a couple more days so that my teeth can slide a little bit further, and then I'll switch to the second set. I must say that even though I'm aware that I'm always wearing my aligners, no one else can tell. My husband is constantly asking me, "Are you wearing your teeth?" You must understand that he means my aligners, and not my actual teeth :) But, if he can't tell, then it makes me confident that no one else that I talk to can tell, either!!

I just switched to my second set of aligners and must say that they weren't nearly as tight as the first set! I think that now my teeth are somewhat used to being in motion, so they didn't mind the switch at all. I switched them right before I went to bed, so if any pain occurred, I don't know about it because I was busy catching my zzzz's!! I've had them on for a couple of days now...this may sound crazy, but, I really think that I can see a slight difference! It's not much yet, but I see it, which makes me proud to wear my aligners! Oh, and honestly, none of my friends or family have noticed them, and I'm not just saying that. I almost want someone to say SOMETHING so that I can tell them how excited I am about having a beautiful smile! But, if their lips are sealed, then so are mine :)"

For more information about Invisalign you can visit our website at http://www.stonebriarsmiledesign.com/ or call the office at 972.377.7800.

Dr. Wade

Dr Jill Wade Graduates with her Masters from the Academy of General Dentistry

2010-07-19T03:17:00.000-07:00

On Saturday July 10, 2010, Dr Jill Wade attended the Academy of General Dentistry’s 2010 Convocation Ceremony in New Orleans, Louisiana, where she received her prestigious Masters Award. She joined other members receiving one of three awards: Mastership, Fellowship, or Lifelong Learning & Service Recognition.
To earn Mastership, members must be Fellows in the AGD who have earned an additional 600 approved continuing education credits, meeting the minimum requirements in each of the dental disciplines. In addition, 400 of the required credits must be in participation coursesm in which skills are learned through manipulation of dental materials. The final requirement of Mastership is to attend graduation. To receive your Fellow, which Dr Wade did back in 2000, you must earn 500 approved continuing education hours, pass a comprehensive 250 – question test, be a member for 3 years, and attend a ceremony.

In the AGD’s 58 year history only 2617 members have received Masterships, the Academy’s most prestigious award.

“I am so honored to be one of only 2600 dentist’s to ever receive this distinction. I realized while I was watching all these professionals walk across the stage of the graduation, how many lives are touched each week by these amazing people. I realized the letters MAGD that will now follow my name is a significant distinction to myself and my colleagues. However, the real reason why we all worked so hard towards this award was for our patients. We just want to provide the best dental care for them as we can. The AGD is made up of a great group of people and is great society. I encourage others work towards the goal of a Fellow or Master. It is goal worth every effort.”

“I also want to thank my staff, family, friends, and patients for their continuous support in my journey through dentistry. Without all of you it would not be worth it.”

"The trip to New Orleans was a blast. I just wanted to encourage anybody that has shyed away from traveling there to have no fear - BOURBON STREET is in tip top shape. I have traveled here several times in my life and I have to say this trip was the most pleasurable experience I had ever had. EVERYONE was so nice and freindly and helpful. The Omni and all it's staff, right down to every taxi cab driver, waiter or waitress. The people of New Orleans seemed very happy to see us all!"

Keep Smiling
Dr Jill Wade

Kelli Visits Dr. Wade for First Invisalign Appointment

2010-07-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today we have seen Kelli in the office to deliver her first set of Invisalign trays. We are so excited to get her on her way to an even more beautiful smile! At this first appointment, we had to add some composite "buttons" to Kelli's teeth. The "buttons" are tooth colored filling material, or bonding, that we sometimes add to help teeth move during the course of your Invisalign treatment. At the end of treatment, these "buttons" are buffed off and polished. You would never know they were on your teeth! This is not something that you have to be numb for. This is just some of our wonderful flavors and lots of air and water!

After the "buttons" are on it is time to try the aligners in. There is usually some soreness for the first couple of days associated with each new aligner. We recommend changing the aligners at night, so that most of the initial soreness occurs while you are sleeping. With the Invisalign aligners you are supposed to wear them at all times. You can take them out to eat, brush, and floss. The wonderful thing about the aligners is that if you have a big meeting or presentation, you can take them out, and then put them back on when you are done. Many of our adult patients love this benefit of Invisalign. Here is a picture of Kelli with her aligners in. They are virtually invisible!

We will usually start by giving you 2 aligners to wear.. Because you wear each aligner for 2 weeks you would come back in 4 weeks for your next set. Sometimes we will see you every 6 weeks, depending on how your treatment is going. The key to successful movement is wearing your aligners!! We will be seeing Kelli before each aligner so that you will be able to see her progress.

Here is what Kelli had to say about her appointment today: "So, it's my first day with my new Invisalign retainers...yay! Dr. Wade had to put three "buttons" on my teeth (one on the top and two on the bottom), which was a total breeze. I can honestly say that they are pretty much invisible. I had to point them out to my husband before he noticed. The retainers are tight, but it's nothing that a helping of Advil hasn't been able to handle! Besides, if they weren't tight, then how would we expect anything to move, right?! Overall, I'm still just super excited to finally be on the road to a beautiful smile!!"

Can you believe she has her Invisalign on in the photo? Post your comments and let us know if you know or someone you know has had Invisalign.

If you would like to see if you are a candidate for Invisalign, visit our website at http://www.stonebriarsmiledesign.com/ or call the office at 972.377.7800.

Dr. Wade

Kelli's Invisalign Journey with Dr. Wade

2010-06-22T08:42:00.000-07:00

Over the next 6 months we are going to be taking Kelli through some Invisalign braces to enhance her beautiful smile. So I'm sure you are wondering, what is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a clear aligner system and you wear each aligner for two weeks. Then you change to your next one. They are virtually invisible, so it is a great way for adults and teenagers to straighten their teeth without anyone knowing. One of the benefits of Invisalign is that you can take the aligners out to eat, brush, floss, and for special occasions. For your first appointment you take some pictures and impressions and they are sent to Invisalign. Invisalign then creates a clinical check for me to look at and see where you are going to finish at the end of your treatment. We will know exactly how long your treatment is going to be. Then once the aligners are here you are ready to start straightening your teeth.

Today we have seen Kelli for her first appointment and she is so excited to get started.

Here is what Kelli had to say: "Easy as pie! No pain or anything... just some pictures and a few simple impressions and viola! The girls here are always so sweet here which is definitely an added bonus. I am so excited to be on my way to the smile I've always wanted!"

Here are a couple of pictures for you to see where Kelli is starting. We will update them along the course of her treatment so you can check her progress.

Please post your comments or words of encouragement for Kelli. For more information about Invisalign or to schedule your consultation, please visit our website at http://www.stonebriarsmiledesign.com/ or give us a call at 972.377.7800.

Dr. Wade

Pearls of Wisdom!

2010-05-12T12:49:00.000-07:00

Get ready for some fun! This blog will keep you up dated on the latest and greatest news in our dental practice. Stonebriar Smile Design. We will follow a patient all the way through her Invisalign braces case and you will be able to see first hand how easy it is! We enjoy every day as we create beautiful smiles!