Patients Play Their Part In Gum Disease Prevention

I found this article by Doctor Quynh Bui, DMD written in the StonehamPatch

What I like about the article

I like the fact that Doctor Quynh explains the fact that many patients have little to no awareness about this disease.   She also explained that even those who are suffering from it are not even aware.

I want to congratulate Doctor Quynh for helping to raise awareness of this terrible problem that may be affecting 75% or 3 out of every 4 people1    It's important that people learn more about this problem because gum disease is the number one reason that people lose their teeth!

What I Didn't Like  

Doctor Quynh explains that she does a thorough cleaning and then has the patient maintain a strict regimen for a couple of weeks.    

The problem I see here is that it should be stressed that fighting / preventing gum disease is a daily struggle.  Every single day people should mechanically disrupt plaque.    The need to fight this battle does not stop after two weeks or when the swelling goes down.  

She also didn't mention what this strict regimen entailed.   That is disappointing.   Did she only mean brushing and flossing?    Was there more that she had her patients do?  

There are many tools in addition to dental floss and a toothbrush.  There is the perio-aid, xylitol, ph balanced, oxygenated mouthwash, essential oils and the Hydro Floss  - but there is no mention of any of those in the article.  

Wouldn't it be useful for readers to understand what a 'strict' daily regimen looked like?   But, I don't intend to be harsh.  It's great that she is explaining that people need to be better educated about this problem.  

Thanks Dr. Quynh For Writing That Article.  

I think it is great anytime a person writes an article or takes the time to educate people about how serious this disease is.   That's why I wrote my book:  What You Should Know About Gum Disease.  

If people just had a little bit of knowledge and understanding, I think that many, many people could avoid expensive treatments that become necessary from having gum disease and lost teeth.   If people just knew a little more, much could be prevented.   

It's not overly technical and it is not complicated.  People just need to know a few things!    But it is true, that not everything works for everyone.  Every human body is different.   This article explains more.  

Sincerely, 

David Snape

ToothyGrinsStore.com

1-888-586-6849

PS:  get the Guide on Fighting Gum Disease

PPS: Learn about  Getting Rid of Bad Breath 

PPPS : My favorite dental health home use tool.  

* I speak in general terms only.  Specific questions about your unique dental health situation should be directed to your dentist or periodontist.  They can answer those questions and provide you with advice, diagnosis and treatment.   This article cannot do that.  But I hope it helps you to figure out how to prevent expensive problems down the road.  

Oklahoma Declares February As 'Gum Disease Awareness Month'

I found the original article here.  

What I like about the article is that it helps to underscore how drastic the problem is.  Generally speaking, most dental health professionals are going to say that about 75% of people have gum disease right now.

The biggest question  you should have after reading that is:  Am I one of that 75%?   Statistically speaking, the odds are not in your favor!

What I don't like about the article

This article does not tell the public what they can do to prevent or mitigate this problem.  It seems only to seek to tell people the problem exists.

This lack of information is one of the major reasons I wrote the book:  What You Should Know About Gum Disease: A Layman's Guide To Fighting Gum Disease. 

It's interesting to me that the public still has little understanding of what the problem is and what they can do to fight against or prevent it from occurring in the first place.


Why Is The Right Information Obscured?

I honestly don't have a good answer to explain why people in general, after all of this time, still do not know what a threat gum disease is to their health and their wallets.

Yet, the fact remains that the majority of people are ignorant and will end up losing teeth and / or spending a LOT of money on expensive treatments as they age.

Perhaps the book mentioned above will give you a better chance than average person of succeeding to stave off this problem as well as save yourself a lot of money in the long run.

I can only point people to it.  But, I cannot make anyone pay attention.  I hope you will be different.  I think you will find the information in that book to be extremely valuable to you!

Sincerely,
David Snape
ToothyGrinsStore.com
1-888-586-6849

PS:  Here is my top tool pick for dental health

PPS:  free guide on Fighting  Gum Disease

PPPS:  free guide on defeating bad breath

* I speak in general terms only on this site and in the above reports.   Questions about your unique dental health situation should be addressed to your periodontist or dentist for answers, diagnosis, advice and treatment.

Customer Reviews

Tennessee Department of Health says Dental health for Children provides Important Benefits

Tennessee Department of Health says Dental Health for Children provides Important Benefits:

Here is a link to the full story in the Clarksville online journal. 

My Comments

The good points to this article is that they have discovered that, particularly in Tennessee, children need extra help with their daily dental maintenance plans.   They site a statistic that 33.5% of people over 65 have had teeth extracted compared with the nationwide average of only about 17% or so.

They correctly mention that good dental health maintenance at home can make a drastic difference.

What I don't like about this article:   Despite the documentation and evidence out there, they have not mentioned the Hydro Floss as a significant tool to help with the prevention dental health problems.

Dentist and Hygienist will nearly all agree that the most important aspect of preventing dental health issues, is what the patient does at home, every single day.   If those basics are not in place, then costly problems  lay in wait down the road.

I hope the Tennessee Department of Health will continue to help children and take it to the next level!  

If you are ready to take it to the next level of protection, read more about the Hydro Floss now. 


What it can do for yourself and your family can save you a lot of money down the road.  Let's not mention the pain and annoyance as well!  

Some other good resources are the book: What You Should Know About Gum Disease and How To Stop Gum Disease In 4 Easy Steps.    - disclaimer,  both were written by me. 

Sincerely,

David Snape
ToothyGrinsStore.com
1-888-586-6849. 

PS: free guide on stopping bad breath here

PPS: free guide on stopping gum disease here

http://blog.toothygrinsstore.com/2013/01/do-not-brush-your-teeth-with-baking-soda.html

How Old Is Your HydroFloss?

Question From A Potential Customer:  How Old Is Your Hydro Floss?

This is a question that I received this morning:  What year model is your Hydrofloss?

Today's date is January 29th 2013.  Here was my reply to this inquiry:

Hi [name removed]

We have the current model.  Our latest stock came in less than 60 days ago.   (and probably less  than that actually).

Here is a link to our Hydro Floss:

http://www.toothygrinsstore.com/HydroFloss-p/hydrofloss01.htm

If you have any further questions, please do write or call:

Sincerely,

David Snape
ToothyGrinsStore.com
1-888-586-6849

PS:  We definitely have the latest Hydro Floss.   

PPS: The Hydro Floss has not changed much in 25 years.   There has been nothing more than minor changes.   Essentially, it is the same machine as back in the late '80s.  (And the reason there is no need for changes is because it works!)

Here are some related posts: 

Dr. Mercola talks HydroFloss

Customer Reviews

The Hydro Floss IS Different

The HydroFloss Pocket Pal Jet Tips

Things That A Good Dentist Would Want You To Know

Things That You Should Know About Your Dental Health

1.  Cavities are Not Always Cavities  - Like other tissues of your body, the teeth can heal.  When a cavity is in the beginning stage, it is possible that it can reverse itself.   Many dentists will drill at the first sign of a 'dark spot'.

You need to understand that not all dentists will agree when the right time to place a filling is.     There is a point where there is no option, but that point may not be now.  Second opinions will often surprise you.  

2.   What You Do At Home Is Very Important

The biggest impact on your dental health is your daily oral health routine.   The dentist can only see you a few times a year.  They can clean your teeth and help with the spots that you have missed.  And they can definitely fix any problems they find.

But, if you want to keep your teeth healthy and avoid expensive treatments,  a lot of that is up to you.

What you do every day is important.

3. Brushing And Flossing Are Usually NOT  Enough To Keep Your Mouth Healthy

Dentist know that about 75% of people have gum disease.   That means that brushing and flossing often is a minimum and isn't good enough to prevent this problem in most people.   Gum Disease is the number one cause of tooth loss.

4.  Plaque and Tartar Are Your Enemies. 

When plaque and tartar form, they give a nice loving home to the bad bacteria that cause gum disease, cavities and even bad breath.    If you don't do an adequate job of disrupting the plaque (on a daily basis) and preventing the formation of tartar you will have destruction occurring.

The only question is how much and will it be too much before your next office cleaning.

These are things that good dentists and hygienists wish that you knew and understood about your dental health.


Sincerely,

David Snape  
ToothyGrinsStore.com
1-888-586-6849

PS.  One of the most powerful tools that I know to be helpful is this one.   Of course, electric toothbrushes are also cool.

Oral B Pro Care 1000

We just added The Oral B Professional Care 1000 Electric Toothbrush to Toothy Grins Store

 

I also found out direct from Oral B today that this toothbrush is also know as "Precision Care 1000"  and  "HealthyCare 1000"

The purpose of any toothbrush, manual or electric is to help us disrupt plaque.  Plaque is the enemy.

Some studies have shown that an electric is better at disrupting plaque than a manual toothbrush.  I think a lot depends on how well you use it.

It is nice to have a timer that tells you when the 2 minutes is up.  Most people, when using a manual, lose track of time.  30 seconds seems like 2 minutes to them.   So, they don't even do the amount recommended by their dentist - but they think they do!

A timer is one of the benefits of an electric.

The only part that worries me a little is the possibility of too much action against the gums.  You can lessen that by using a very light touch.  Aside from gum disease, brushing too hard with a toothbrush is a cause of gum erosion / recession.

The key takeaway is that plaque is very easy to disrupt.   So there is no need to brush hard.   On the other hand, consistency is also the key.   Plaque needs to be disrupted at least once every 24 hours.  But that does NOT mean you can brush once -per -day.  Brush the amount and way that your dentist or hygienist suggests.

An electric toothbrush can be a great asset.  My periodontist also recommends the Oral B brand.   And I think he really knows what he is talking about!   :)

One of my favorite tools for dental health improvement, however, remains this oral irrigator. 

Sincerely,

David Snape
ToothyGrinsStore.com
1-888-586-6849
Author:  What You Should Know About Gum Disease

 PS:  Better dental health prevention is the key to avoiding expensive treatments, pain and perhaps even lost teeth down the road.   Keeping your teeth for a lifetime of good service pays off in multiple ways!

Serving Pregnant Women - An Upstream Approach To Preventing Cavities

Serving Pregnant Women - An Upstream Approach To Preventing Cavities

I found an interesting article with the above title at healthaffairs.org.



The article has a good side because it acknowledges that babies generally get their first oral bacterial from their mothers (or any other caregiver).   Babies are not born with oral bacteria.

Instead, they generally get that bacteria from whoever it is that cares for them.   However, the article seemed to suggest that fixing / preventing cavities would prevent or help to prevent the cavity producing bacteria from colonizing the babies mouth.

I think if the bacteria are there they will get passed on, even if the mother has no active cavities.   Instead, prevention would be better served in 'shifting' the kind of bacteria in the mother's mouth.

You don't hear many dental professionals talking about that concept and neither did this article.   However, it is similar to the concept that you hear in regular health care circles.  That is the 'replacing' the bacteria in the gut that are destroyed by antibiotics.

The mouth, interesting enough is part of the alimentary canal.  The Alimentary canal is the portion of our body devoted to the movement of food through our body and removing nutrients from that food.  The same system that the bacteria in the gut, just mentioned, reside in. 

 

Shifting That Bacteria

So, how do you shift the bacteria to a healthier population?   This is something that the article seemed to overlook while promoting the virtue of extinguishing existing cavities.   Which is still a good idea, in any case.

Since, this is not really an area that is actively researched, for whatever reason,  it may not be well documented.

However,  some professionals  suggest that the use of 6 - 10 pieces of xylitol gum (.72 grams of xylitol per peice)  daily, over a period of about 6 months or so, may shift the kind of bacteria that inhabit your mouth over time.

Yogurt, as mentioned by Japanese researchers, may help to retard gum disease through a simple concept.  It seems to work like it does in the human gut.   You prevent a 'bad bacteria' population from colonizing the mouth by promoting the colonization of 'good bacteria'    Good bacteria would be the kind that don't cause gum disease, cavities, and bad breath.   So eating yogurt may be helpful. 

Balancing the mouth pH.  The anaerobic or bad bacteria like an acidic mouth.  It helps them to multiply more rapidly.   Theoretically, a high pH mouth may work against the 'bad' bacteria and promote the 'good' bacteria.   An 'acidic' mouth may do just the opposite.

Oxygenation, may be helpful in reducing harmful anaerobic (oxygen hating) bacteria.  This in turn can promote the oxygen loving (and generally healthy) bacteria.

I wish the article above had touched on these important concepts.   But it did not.  Instead it focused on how to get dental treatment TO pregnant women.

Prevention is for everyone and starting on prevention before pregnancy would be even better! 

Pregnant Women Are At An Elevated Risk For Gum Disease

 

The jury is out on exactly WHY this happens.  But it probably has something to do with hormonal changes and / or the fact that the fetus is really taking a LOT of nutrients from the mother.  This may have the impact of weakening her immune system somewhat.

But one thing is clear, any gum disease in the mother increases the risk of having a low birth weight and / or prematurely born baby.   So, it is worth learning more on the topic of gum disease

Potentially Helpful To You:

The book:  What You Should Know About Gum Disease. 

How To Stop Gum Disease In 4 Easy Steps. 


this special tool
 


Sincerely,

David Snape
ToothyGrinsStore.com
1-888-586-6849

I just spoke in general terms here, specific questions about your unique dental health situation should be directed to your doctor or dentist.  

Veneers - Should I Get Them?

Veneers - Should I Get Them?

It seems that I have received questions about veneers for teeth lately on my twitter account  So, I thought I would share my thoughts on them.

Disclaimer:  I am not a dentist nor do I have any training in this area, I am just using common sense and limited knowledge here.

First of all, veneers are costly.  There is not just the initial cost but you must also be prepared to pay for maintenance or to correct problems in the future.

But, if you have a good doctor whom you really trust and has lots of experience, then it can work out well.  

If you know of a doctor who has a lot of experience and does great work,  you can tell us about her in the comment section below.

Poorly Fitted Veneers

Ill fitting veneers can be problematic.   By the same token, improperly placed veneers can be a big problem as well.

If not made and placed correctly, the results can be less than expected.   You can search on the Internet there are stories of those who are very disappointed by the results. 

Bottom line is, unless you are a celebrity or have the bankroll, you should not even consider veneers.  The only other exception to that would be if your teeth are in such bad shape that there really is no other option.  But that is rather unlikely as there are a lot of thing that can be done to make teeth look nicer.  Ask your dentist. 

It's not like you can just take veneers off if you don't like them.    Your teeth will need restoral work afterwards except in very rare cases. 

So think well about whether you want to spend all that money and consider the future possible problems and costs as well.

The bottom line is, that for the average person, it just is not worth it. 

 If You Are Going to Do It Despite What I Wrote Above

It is super important for you to find someone who has a LOT of experience placing veneers.  You want a true expert to give you the best possible outcome.

Look for someone with a minimum of 10 years experience.   It takes about that long to master most things so it is a good 'rule of thumb'.

You will be paying a lot both now and in the future, so make sure you go to an absolute professional in this area.

The practitioner should absolutely make a model for you so that you can see what the likely results will be.   If they don't do that,  you should be scared and have a big question mark in your mind.

Again, you need someone who is totally experienced in this area.  The chances for problems are not small.  You can minimize your risk by seeing the right doctor.

Let's Talk About Prevention

I think I have made it clear that veneers are not an easy or cheap answer.   Taking care of your teeth for a lifetime of good service IS always the right answer.

The biggest threat in regards to loosing a tooth or multiple teeth is gum disease.  Ask any dental professional.  Most tooth loss is due to gum disease.    This is a problem that many people have and yet are completely oblivious too.

Dental professionals also tell us that about 75% of people have some gum disease.  Go to any periodontist office and look in the waiting room.  The treatment of gum disease must be a multi-billion dollar industry! 

Therefore, any discussion of preventing costly, painful and time consuming dental health treatments must include the topic of gum disease.   It is the number one cause of tooth loss.

I hope I have explained why it is important to understand what gum disease is and what you can do to mitigate its damage or even prevent it.

Therefore, I have written the book:  What You Should Know About Gum Disease.  And I believe that every family needs one copy, because of the 75% figure quoted above.  Ask any dental professional, they will tell you that the problem is widespread.

Another great prevention tool,  my favorite actually,  is this one.

I spoke in general terms here,  if you have specific questions about your unique dental health situation, be sure to direct those questions to your dentist or periodontist.  

Comments are open below.

Sincerely,

David Snape
ToothyGrinsStore.com
1-888-586-6849

PS:  It really is an important book for a variety of reasons.  get your copy today. 

Dental Scrubs - Fancy Scrubs Works!

Dental Scrubs - Trendy and Functional?

Need a good set of scrubs for the dental office?   Fancy Scrubs will work just fine.


If your biggest concern is fashion they have you covered.  With lots of colors and cuts, you cannot go wrong.

If comfort is more important they have you covered there too.

But if function and practicality is a 'must have' you should really check out Fancy Scrubs.  They have special scrubs available that can help to protect your body.

Let's face it, there are some nasty things in people's mouths.   If you have worked in the field, even for a short time, you know that is true.

Some of the scrubs at Fancy Scrubs have the ability to help protect you.   See video below.

If you have questions you can ask  @fancyscrubs on twitter.   Lisa will be glad to answer those questions.  

You can also visit the Fancy Scrubs website

What About Your Patients?

Not that you have yourself 'covered'  (literally), what about your patients?   We both know that prevention is a sore point in dental care.

Many professionals don't have the time to teach their patients about prevention.  But you know they need to have more knowledge / work in that area.

Get your patients the resources they need.

Give or tell them to read the book:  What You Should Know About Gum Disease  -  It has been written in easy to understand language and hits the important points about what they really need to understand for their own benefit from multiple angles - over and over again.

They can't help but 'get it' from reading this book.

In even more practical terms, if you want to give them something that will really help to cut down on the plaque and tartar buildup between office visits,  tell them about this device for home care.

The Journal of Clinical Periodontology has published study results on this machine on more than one occasion.    The dates are May of 1993 and April of 1998.   Look them up and you will understand why your patients need this machine to help them with their home care! 

Covered!   

So, now we have you covered and your patients covered.   What's next?  Make this year a good year with better, more functional scrubs and better patient home hygiene!

Wins for everyone involved.   Winnning!

Sincerely,

David Snape
ToothyGrinsStore.com
1-888-586-6849


PS: Your patients can really benefit (as you can) from the information in the book as well as the tool mentioned.  Don't overlook the ability of both items to make major improvements in peoples' lives!


Fancy Scrubs Video:  

Meet Dr. Tate Vo

More on Doctor Vo here:  

http://www.dentatesmiledesign.com/about-us/meet-dr-vo/


I first found out about Dr. Tate Vo due to her comment my post on brushing with baking soda here on this site.

She practices in Rochester,  New York.

It looks like she won a 2012 'Talk of the Town' Customer satisfaction award! 


It's interesting to me that she and her hygienist work on 1 patient at a time.  It sounds like that means there are no long stays in the waiting room.   That would be fantastic for any patient.

The name of her practice is DenTate Smile Designs.  If you are looking for a better smile, perhaps Dr. Vo is the right dentist for you?

It appears that she was heavily influenced by her mother's dental practice when she was growing up.  Based on what I can gather from her website, it looks like she may be a truly caring dentist who also cares about prevention and doing right by the patient.

It is not always easy to find a good dentist.   I don't know Dr. Vo personally, so I can't vouch for her  - but if I were looking for a good dentist in the Rochester area, she would definitely be on my list to check out. 

Reading through her website gave me a wealth of clues that she might be a very good and conscientious dentist.   I am always happy to meet a dentist like that. 

Caring about patients goes a lot deeper than just the surface.  To me, it means the dentist is going to do what is best for the patient, not what is best for the dentist.

I think Dr. Vo is definitely worth checking out.

Her website is:   http://www.dentatesmiledesign.com

950 West Avon Road Suite 1
Rochester Hills, MI 48307
Tel No: (248) 656-2300

If you are looking for a good dentist in Rochester, NY,  I would put her on the list of doctors to visit.


Sincerely,

David Snape
ToothyGrinsStore.com
1-888-586-6849

PS: Dr. Vo's website mentioned that she focuses on prevention.   I think that is fantastic!  My favorite prevention tool is this one

What You Should Know About Gum Disease Part 30 Video

Part 30 Video:

The full book can be found at:

http://www.toothygrinsstore.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=WHATYOUSHOULDKNOW01

Top tool that you should want to know about:

http://www.toothygrinsstore.com/HydroFloss-p/hydrofloss01.htm

This Gum Disease Problem

It really is a big problem.  Lots of people have it and many don't know they have it.   So, how do you get this information in the hands of people if they don't even know they have the problem.

Preventing the problem is very important.  Stopping and existing problem is equally important.

When I say a lot of people have gum disease, dental professionals tell us about 75%  (sometimes higher) have gum disease.   That's 3 out of every 4 people.   That really is a lot.   What do you think the odds are that you are the 1 out of 4 that is safe? 

As I mentioned before, people just don't know they have this problem.  Often times, they are not told until it is time for an expensive treatment.

People are busy and they don't always have time to educate their patients.   Many doctors have found that the people actually do not listen until the situation is critical.   In a certain sense, you cannot blame them because they know people won't listen.

On the other hand, some dental professionals keep trying even though they understand the probability of getting through to more than a few people is unlikely.   This has been the blockage that has faced other dentists who have gone out of their way to talk about prevention. 

Unfortunately,  I am finding a similar situation.  Even though about 75% of people have some gum disease, they just don't want to pay attention to what I have to say.  

On the other hand, there are those who are delighted to find my information.  The absorb it, act on it, and some even call me to tell me how much better their dental health has become - as measured by their hygienist or dentist. 

I always advocate working with professionals.   My book is easy-to-understand and I believe it has the potential to save you a tremendous amount of money, pain and unhappiness over the years. 

Every family should have a copy and ever dental office should be giving copies to their patients. 

Read more here:

http://www.toothygrinsstore.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=WHATYOUSHOULDKNOW01


And don't forget the machine that I think provides exceptional value and one that has the potential to also save you a great deal of cash and turmoil.

http://www.toothygrinsstore.com/HydroFloss-p/hydrofloss01.htm 

Sincerely,

David Snape
ToothyGrinsStore.com
1-888-586-6849

High Cost of Dental Education Contributes to Patients' Costs

I recently read two separate articles that mentioned the cost of dental education.  One article mentioned $195,000 and the other article mentioned $250,000.   On top of this many doctors are faced with the costs of opening their own practice which is generally also quite expensive.

I read a quote that somewhere around $400,000 is typical.  With that plus the education debt can you imagine the interest alone? 

The problem, I believe, has to do in part with the high costs of education.  The patients are, at some point, going to be the ones who bear these costs.   As we know many insurance policies don't cover dental 100%.  The copays end up being quite high.  Many people are left out in the cold in regards to dental insurance. 

How do we bring down the expensive costs of education and therefore the overall costs to dental health for regular people?   I think this problem exists across a wide range of professions as well as just 'normal' degrees.

Someone told me that just to get a BS degree at a certain university in St. Louis, it often costs students $200,000.

That's interesting considering that those students could have had a full dental education at that rate.  The costs of education are off the scale and far beyond what should be the norm.

Is it that teacher's salaries are too high?   That buildings have to be maintained?   As you know it does often seem that universities are ever expanding.   They are taking in an awful lot of cash.

Universities also have another source of funding.   Researchers typically need to be sponsored by a University in order to conduct their research.   The University takes part of every funding grant for themselves as the 'administrators' of the research.

One researcher told me that he typically has to propose a grant at twice what it would cost him to do the research because the University takes 50% for themselves!   What are they doing with all that money?   On top of that tuition keeps getting higher every year or every couple of years.

A school I attended seemed to be raising tuition every single semester.   It was outrageous then and it is outrageous today.

It's time to rein in the costs of education because it affects everyone.   I want to know where all these incredible sums of money are going too.   There should be an audit and schools should be forced to curtail their spending and lower tuition rates.

Once that happens, perhaps doctors won't be under so much pressure to charge a lot for their services?    I dislike the high costs associated with health care including dental health care.   I think it is time that this situation be rectified.  But who will make that happen?   Unfortunately,  I don't think much is going to change anytime soon.

Doctors and, in turn, patients will continue bearing the high costs of Universities and education until something is done to fix the system.  



Sincerely,
David Snape
ToothyGrinsStore.com
1-888-586-6849

PS:  With costs for care so high, it really pays to take prevention seriously,  check out the top tool I think can be helpful to families in this regard.  

Loma Linda School Of Dentistry To Provide Free Care For A Day

They will do this on January 13th 2013 - for one day.  They will not do crown, root canals, or dentures.

I am all for qualified dentists providing free care - read about that here.

However, this is a university clinic and I am VERY concerned that this is just an attempt to give the students an opportunity to fulfill their clinic requirements before moving on to graduation.

I ran into a woman in Kansas City a few years who was using a university clinic for low cost treatments.   I was a bit concerned when she told me just how much work had been done for (to?) her.

She was still relatively young in her twenties.

Again, I am for qualified and licensed dentist giving free care to their communities in order to 'give back' to society.  When the economics involved are so lopsided it only seems fair. 

School clinics are another story entirely.  

Sincerely,

David Snape
ToothyGrinsStore.com
1-888-586-6849

PS: Here is my favorite home care tool for promoting dental health between office visits. 

Dental Health Should Be Available To All

Ongoing Problem and Debate About Access To Dental Care

 
I would venture to say that most dental health professionals are fully aware that there are areas and individuals that are 'underserved'.  These people do not honestly have access to quality dental care either because of the area they live in or due to lack of funds and insurance.

Let's face it, the cost of dental care is pretty high.  Not everyone can afford it.  Yet, the dentist and staff must be paid.  

I think no one will be shocked and I also think it is fair to say that dentists are well compensated for what they do.   There are many dentist who understand that there are areas where people need help but cannot afford.  Many doctors have been kind enough to dedicate their services for free to certain areas or people for a limited time. 

That's great for the patients and, I believe, for the doctors as well.  Reaching out to help those less fortunate is nearly always good for the soul.   The benefits, in my opinion, flow both ways.

Given the lopsided economics of dental care, I might even be so inclined to argue that many dental professionals have sort of an obligation to help those who can't afford it.   I think everyone would be quick to say that it 'isn't all about the money'.   So, I think it is really great when some doctors are able to step forward and help those who need it most. 

I remember reading a few stories last year about doctors who donated their clinics and their time for a weekend or so to help those who were really in need and could not afford to pay.  Those are heart warming stories and I have a feeling that the doctors will gain as a result.  It is a kind of karmic thing.

Another Barrier

Aside from the barrier of economics, there is another barrier.   I like to call it the barrier of ignorance.  There are some things that are just not in the mainstream awareness of the general population that should be.  

Therefore, I did write a book to help those who could benefit from knowing the basic facts about one of the biggest threats to dental health - gum disease. 

The name of this book is What You Should Know About Gum Disease - A Layman's Guide To Fighting Gum Disease. 

I know that the book has helped people as I have been told as much directly and indirectly (by third party sources).  If there were a way to get the book into more hands, I think it could help a lot more people. 

I have a way to do that.  I have a .pdf version of the book.  This .pdf can be read from people's computers - assuming they have one.    It can also be emailed to anyone.  If you are a doctor or dental professional that wants to get this information into the hands or your patient base, let me know and I will email a copy to you that you could then send to anyone you would like to.

That's my way of helping.   I hope many professionals will take me up on the offer. 

Sincerely,
David Snape
ToothyGrinsStore.com
1-888-586-6849

PS:  Take my free guide:  How To Stop Gum Disease In 4 Easy Steps with you.  In fact, you can share that with others as well.

PPS: One of my favorite dental health tools for home use is this.

Hydro Floss Customer Reviews

HydroFloss Customer Reviews

 The Hydro Floss

At Toothy Grins Store, we have obtained some rather impressive customer reviews for the Hydro Floss.

You can read them here: 

http://www.toothygrinsstore.com/ReviewsList.asp?ProductCode=HydroFloss01&Reviews=Y

We have approximately 12 pages of these reviews all written by real customers over the last 3 or so years.

I am very happy to sell the Hydro Floss as it is one of the tools that I mention in the book: What You Should Know About Gum Disease

I have heard from a good number of people over the last several years.  They have told me about their experiences with the Hydro Floss and how it has really improved / helped their dental health.

Incredible Benefits And Dental Health Prevention From the Hydro Floss

When you think about it,  $98 is really nothing if you can save yourself from one dental surgery, one SRP treatment,  one implant or even one simple cavity and filling.  

The Hydro Floss has a proven track record and has been around for about 25 years now.   Yet, many people are still unaware of how much it can help them.   I have kind of turned it into a mission of mine to help people become more aware.

There really is nothing else like it.   It is NOT a Water Pik.   It does more than other irrigators can do and that has been clearly documented in a professional journal twice!

That journal is The Journal Of Clinical Periodontology.    If you are not sure, Periodontology is the study of the tissues that support your teeth.   They are very important and keeping them healthy should be the primary focus of your dental home care.

Gum disease is an affliction and we are told by professionals that about 75% of people have it.   This problem is also the number one cause of tooth loss.

The 'bad bacteria'  are responsible for cavities, gum disease, bad breath and more.   Have you heard some people make the point that the problem "is not sugar".   In a sense they are right, but on the other hand, not absolutely correct.   The sugar feeds the bacteria.  In turn the bacteria create acidic waste products that attack your tissues.   More sugar equates to more acid!

This cycle causes oral health problems.  Under plauqe and tartar is where the 'bad bacteria' grow and accumulate under a shield from oxygen. 

The Hydro Floss has been shown to create a much greater reduction in plaque and tartar build up when compared to irrigators that do not use the same patented magnetic technology.

This is the primary reason the Hydro Floss is superior.   You can help me educate people on this topic by liking and sharing this page as well as the other pages on this site.

Next:  Read The Reviews


 

Sincerely,

David Snape
ToothyGrinsStore.com
1-888-586-6849

PS:  Get your free guides on fighting gum disease and stopping bad breath  

*I speak in general terms only, specific questions about your own unique dental health situation should be addressed to your periodontist, dentist or doctor.



Read more about the HydroFloss

What You Should Know About Gum Disease Part 15

What You Should Know About Gum Disease Part 15 Video:

Part 14

Part 16

The Full Book  

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Fear of Going To The Dentist

Many people are afraid to go to the dentist and this is a fear that must be overcome.   On the other hand, it is very important to find a 'good' dentist.  That would be one that actually cares about you and is not willing to charge you for unnecessary treatments or diagnostics.

Unfortunately, we live in age where many people just routinely take advantage of others.  They think that is 'normal', but it is not.   It is a very perverse mentality.

I think people should be under the care of a good doctor and get their teeth cleaned on a routine and regular basis.   There is, in my opinion, real value in regular office cleanings.

But again, it is imperative that you find a good doctor.   Fear is not necessarily unfounded.  Finding a doctor that has a high moral standard is very important.

Unnecessary work can be irritating, painful and very costly.  You need a doctor you can trust.   I do believe it is not so easy to find such doctors today.  But, I do believe they are out there.

I have indeed heard a number of horror stories over the years and I have my own bad experiences with some 'professionals' as well.

What You Do At Home Is Important

While it is very important to be under the care of a good and honest doctor, it is also important to focus on what you do at home.  Every good dental practitioner will agree that the greatest positive or negative effect on your dental health, under normal circumstances, has a great deal to do with your home care.

This is because the plaque or biofilm that house the 'bad' bacteria must be mechanically disrupted daily in order to stay ahead of any problems.   You can only see your dentist a few times a year and certainly not every day.   Therefore, what you do at home is extremely important.

If brushing and flossing every day where ALL that was needed for everyone, then you wouldn't see so many people with gum disease.  That is a clue and something to think about.

I speak in general terms only.  Specific questions about your unique dental health situation should be directed to your dental health provider of choice. 


Read More about the book:  What You Should Know About Gum Disease


Sincerely,

David Snape
ToothyGrinStore.com
1-888-586-6849
Author


PS:  Get your free guides on fighting gum disease and stopping bad breath   

 

What You Should Know About Gum Disease - Part 14

What You Should Know About Gum Disease - A Layman's Guide To Fighting Gum Disease - Part 14 on Video: 

 Part 15



Part 13   top suggested tool

About This Video And Book

 This is the continuation of my reading of the book: What You Should Know About Gum Disease -

In this video we touch on the  differences in qualification regarding general dentists and periodontists.   Sometimes, it is very important to choose the right doctor.

Periodontists have extra training (about two years) and gum health and disease is usually the exact focus of their practice.   If you are looking for a more exacting diagnosis and treatment options, I would suggest that it might be best to visit a periodontist.

That is not to say that the general dentist is not able to treat gum disease, they are.   But perhaps the difference can be highlighted in this analogy:  Would you rather go to a general practitioner or a heart specialist when you have a problem with your heart?

Gum Disease Is Everywhere

The unfortunate and perhaps inconvenient truth is that around 75% of people have some gum disease right now.   Most people want to believe they are in the 25% .  Their eyes will gloss over if you mention gum disease.  They would never imagine that they could be included in the majority of people.  

Unfortunately, dental professionals have given us this 75% number.  One need only ask a dental hygienist and she will be able to tell you just how bad it is.   She sees it every day.  

People are lacking the right information 

Gum disease is simple but it is also very complex.  It is simple to understand what it is, relatively speaking.  But fighting it is a bit more complex. 

You see, every human body is different.   That means it takes a different amount of effort from each person to control this problem to the point that it is no longer causing damage in your mouth.  

Each person is different.  Some people can honestly get away with normal brushing and flossing and they are fine.   Others, need to do a lot more every day to keep their gums healthy. 

Since most people are probably brushing and flossing, it is easy to understand that brushing and flossing, do not work for everyone.   Otherwise, the 75% figure could not exist.  

I have also found that many people just don't undertstand the basic facts about this disease.  If they did, they would certainly have  a better chance of defeating the problem.   In this case, it is really true that ignorance is not bliss!  

I hope that you will now take the time to educate yourself and be better equipped to protect yourself and your family against this problem. 

 Part 13 is available here 

Part 15 here


Sincerely, 

David Snape 
ToothyGrinsStore.com
1-888-586-6849

 PS:  Get your free guides on fighting gum disease and stopping bad breath