Dentist in Redding: When Energy Drinks Kill

The Food and Drug Administration has confirmed that it received five reports in the past few years suggesting that people died after drinking caffeinated energy drinks.

Kevin Goldberg, who is suing Monster Beverage represents the parents of a 14-year-old Maryland girl who died from heart arrhythmia after drinking two 24-ounce cans of Monster Energy.

The number of emergency department (ED) visits involving energy drinks doubled from 10,068 visits in 2007 to 20,783 visits in 2011.

The occurrence of energy drink-related ED visits among adolescents and young adults shows that these vulnerable populations experience negative health events after consuming energy drinks. In a recent report, the American Academy of Pediatrics discouraged use of energy drinks for children of all ages, including young athletes, and a joint study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Institute of Medicine recommended that beverages available in schools should be caffeine-free. Energy drinks can also be problematic among young adults, especially college students, when used in combination with alcohol.

Energy drinks and alcohol a dangerous combo for college kids: 

 

Credit: http://www.nydailynews.com/life-style/health/energy-drinks-alcohol-dangerous-combo-college-kids-study-article-1.1546930#ixzz34RLYJ4uS

Combining heavily caffeinated energy drinks and alcohol is a trend, especially among college students. In fact, about half of energy drink users admit to combining them with alcohol while partying.

Mixing alcohol and energy drinks is a serious public health concern when compared to drinking alcohol alone. The FDA banned the sale of premixed alcoholic energy drinks such as Four Loco, saying they’re unsafe, but it’s easy for college kids to just mix their own.

credit: http://ic.steadyhealth.com/low_potassium_side_effects.html Children And Teenagers Should Never Drink Energy Drinks, Doctors Say

Top 10 Energy Drink Side Effects

Recent research in Australia has highlighted the risks with over-consumption of energy drinks. This data was gathered from 7 years of calls to the Australian Poisons Center.

Listed in order of most common to least common:

1. Palpitations / tachycardia
2. Tremor / shaking
3. Agitation / restlessness
4. Gastrointestinal upset
5. Chest pain / ischaemia
6. Dizziness / syncope
7. Paraesthesia (tingling or numbing of the skin)
8. Insomnia
9. Respiratory distress
10. Headache

What are ingredients of  Energy drinks?

Most energy drinks are high in sugar in the form of high fructose corn syrup and/or cane sugar. Some use creative names to make their version of sugar seem “healthier”, like “natural cane juice”.

• High sugar drinks are linked to the obesity.
• Sugar causes tooth decay
• Increases risk of type 2 diabetes.
• The sugar in energy drinks causes blood sugar and insulin spikes, which later result in a “crash-like” feeling.
• Sugar is also somewhat addictive.
• More than 35mg of Niacin (B3) can cause flushing of the skin. Intake of 3000mg or more can result in liver toxicity.
• More than 100mg of B6 can cause sensory nerve problems (burning sensation) or skin lesions.

B Vitamins

Inositol

No known side effects have been reported, but ingesting large quantities has been linked to diarrhea. Large doses have been used to treat certain psychiatric disorders.

Ginseng

• Some studies have linked it to sleeplessness, while others refute this.
• Other possible symptoms include; low blood pressure, edema, palpitations, tachycardia, cerebral arteritis, vertigo, headache, insomnia, mania, vaginal bleeding, amenorrhea, fever, appetite suppression, pruritus, cholestatic hepatitis, mastalgia, euphoria, and miscarriage.

Glucuronolactone

While no side effects have been reported, there’s still debate on its safety.  Many countries including Canada, England, Germany, and France have concluded that it is not a safety concern.

Artificial Sweeteners

If you drink sugar-free energy drinks you may be consuming any number of artificial sweeteners. There is always debate around the negative health effects of these (particularly aspartame).

However, all major health institutions regard them as safe.

Ginkgo Biloba

Gingko is a herb, and can cause some minor side effects in some people:

• nausea, diarrhea, headaches, dizziness, heart palpitations, and restlessness.
• Can interact with other medication such as blood thinners and anti-depressants.
• A recent study found that ginkgo caused thyroid cancer in rats.

L-Carnitine

Too much of this amino acid can cause vomiting, nausea, headache, diarrhea, stuffy nose, restlessness and sleeping difficulty.

L-Theanine

This amino acid is derived from green tea and many energy drinks and shots have begun putting “green tea extract” in their products.

It produces a different type of alertness than caffeine and there hasn’t been any scientific evidence of it causing adverse side effects. Some have reported feeling light-headed when consuming a dose of more than 300mg of L-Theanine.

What is Safe For You?

Energy drinks probably shouldn’t be a staple of anyone’s diet and coffee is certainly a healthier source of caffeine.

However, despite a number of alarming reports of overdose in recent years, for most people energy drink consumption is fine in moderation.

Many reported side effects are anecdotal – being reported from patient’s records. So, it’s hard to say which ingredient actually caused the problems if the patient was ingesting several combinations of these at one time.

Be Careful of Pre-existing Conditions

If you or your child has a pre-existing heart condition of any sort – they should not be consuming energy drinks.

In general it is better to avoid the larger drinks (i.e. Mega Monster has a massive 240mg caffeine in its 24 fl oz giant can), and stick to smaller 8 Oz cans.

If people drink energy products responsibly and use energy drinks occasionally, then most will likely avoid any of the energy drink side effects.

In dentistry experience and Continuing Education are everything. Dr. Parvin Carter has over 30 years of experience in Practicing General Dentistry and 25 years in Orthodontics. She has thousands of hours of advanced training. In 2000, Academy of General Dentistry awarded Dr. Carter a Certificate of Mastership (MAGD) in General Dentistry. According to the Journal of the Academy of General Dentistry, only 1% of US dentists achieve this high level of advancement. Dr. Carter is a Certified and Preferred Provider of Invisalign. She has successfully treated over 450 patients with Invisalign. Please see www.drparvincarter.com for more information.

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Redding Dentist: What is Invisalign?

Most people love to have a beautiful smile. Most adults know that it can make a great difference not only in their personal but also their professional lives.

A beautiful smile will make a great difference in your personal life.

A beautiful smile will make a great difference in your professional life.

Confident smiles, after all, pave the way to a happy world.

In addition,  crooked teeth can cause  adverse effects on your health:

Health damages of crooked teeth:

1. Crooked teeth Interfere with proper chewing.
2. Crooked teeth make keeping teeth clean more of a challenge, increasing the risk of tooth decay, cavities, gingivitis, and bad breath.
3. Crooked teeth  strain on the muscles and joints of the jaw, increasing the risk of breaking a tooth .
4. Crooked teeth could eventually cause TMJ headaches, neck and shoulder pain.

Crooked teeth could eventually cause TMJ headaches, neck and shoulder pain.
TMJ headaches can be very excruciating.

These effects were reviewed in my previous communication.

Straightening crooked teeth is of course a requirement for a beautiful smile. This is usually achieved by seeing a dentist who would do one the following orthodontic treatments:

Treatments for teeth straightening:

• Metal Braces
• Ceramic Braces
• Invisalign Braces

I reviewed the advantages and or disadvantages of these three techniques previously. In this blog I would like to explain my experiences with Invisalign.

Invisalign Braces:

Invisalign braces are virtually invisible. Invisalign is a proprietary method of orthodontic treatment which uses a series of clear, removable teeth aligners used as an alternative to traditional metal dental braces.

As of April 2008, more than 730,000 patients have completed or are currently in treatment. These alignment trays are created from molds and can be removed for brushing and flossing. They’re the Cadillac of braces; they are even more affordable than traditional braces with shorter straightening time

I used traditional metal braces for 15 years. When Invisalign came to market, 2008,  I started testing it on my patients. The patients found it easier to wear and I found it better and faster teeth straightening technique. I have now done over 400 cases of Invisalign. As I get more experienced I feel my patients are getting much faster results. Also, using Invisalign,  I am able,  to correct the most complex cases with least amount of discomfort and restrictions to my patients.

I have been able to correct all kind of bite problems using Invisalign.The following video is showing all sort of the bad bite problems:

I would like to show you and describe one of my cases below: The following video shows application of Invisalign to Sarah Johnston who is my office manager. She has given me the permission to use this video:

Most popular questions about Invisalign

I get a lot of questions from patients regarding Invisalign. Below I am going to respond to the most commons:

Does my Insurance covers the charge of Invisalign?

Medical benefits differ significantly from policy to policy. Call  your dentist office, they will call your insurance company and figure out how much your insurance will pay. . In general, if a patient has orthodontic coverage, Invisalign should be covered to the same extent as conventional braces.

What if I do not have dental Insurance to cover my Invisalign?

Most doctors will help you find options to make your treatment affordable. Many offices offer flexible and affordable monthly payment plans. Many doctors also offer financing through CareCredit. Specifically designed for health-care expenses, CareCredit is a third-party patient financing program that makes it easier for you to get the treatment or procedures you want and need.

Is there a Payment plan for Invisalign?

Your dentist most likely, offer financing through CareCredit. Specifically designed for health-care expenses, CareCredit is a third-party patient financing program that makes it easier for you to get the treatment or procedures you want and need.

What is the cost of Invisalign?

The cost of Invisalign is generally between $3500-5000, depending on the case of patients.

most of my patients pay an average of $100/month. Below I am going to show you the best and worst case scenario:

1) Monthly payments for patients with coverage and down payment:

Average Cost of Invisalign	$5000
Insurance coverage	$1000
Down Payments	$2500
Monthly Payment(24 month)	$68

2) Monthly Payments of Patients, no coverage and $500 dentist’s special offer:

Average Cost of Invisalign	$5000
Insurance coverage	$0
Down Payments	$500
Monthly Payment(24 month)	$148

Invisalign has a calculator which would allow you to calculate your payments based on your own numbers. Please check here to figure out your own exact monthly payments.

In dentistry experience and Continuing Education are everything. Dr. Parvin Carter has over 30 years of experience in Practicing General Dentistry and 25 years in Orthodontics. She has thousands of hours of advanced training. In 2000, Academy of General Dentistry awarded Dr. Carter a Certificate of Mastership (MAGD) in General Dentistry. According to the Journal of the Academy of General Dentistry, only 1% of US dentists achieve this high level of advancement. Dr. Carter is a Certified and Preferred Provider of Invisalign. She has successfully treated over 380 patients with Invisalign.

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Redding Dentist: What Causes Cavities?

Dental cavities (caries) are holes in the two outer layers of a tooth called the enamel and the dentin. The enamel is the outermost white hard surface and the dentin is the yellow layer just beneath enamel. Both layers serve to protect the inner living tooth tissue called the pulp, where blood vessels and nerves reside. Dental cavities are common, affecting over 90% of the population. Small cavities may not cause pain, and may be unnoticed by the patient. The larger cavities can collect food, and the inner pulp of the affected tooth can become irritated by bacterial toxins, foods that are cold, hot, sour, or sweet-causing toothache. Toothache from these larger cavities is the number one reason for visits to dentists.

What are the causes of cavities?

Cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth consume simple sugars, converting them into acid plaque. Acid plaque is different from the periodontal plaque that causes “Gum Disease.” The acid plaque produced by these bacteria cause the hard inorganic layers of the enamel and dentin to soften. The softened layers are then dissolved by saliva, leaving a hole (cavity) in the tooth. Unless filled by a dentist, the cavity can continue to erode and damage the inner pulp of the tooth. Damage to the pulp can lead to pulp death, infection and tooth abscess. Therefore, pulp damage will necessitate either tooth extraction or a root canal procedure where the dying pulp is removed and replaced with an inert material.

The problem is that most of us are not familiar with ‘mouth-healthy diet”.

Changes begin in your mouth the minute you start to eat certain foods. After eating sugar containing foods, carbohydrates,  Bacteria in your mouth make acids. When you eat fermentable carbohydrates – foods containing sugar — the bacteria in your mouth use the sugar for fuel and produce acids as a waste product.  Acidic media in your mouth  can dissolve enamel in less than five minutes.Regular acid assaults on enamel can wear holes in teeth, commonly called cavities.

In dentistry experience and Continuing Education are everything. Dr. Parvin Carter has over 30 years of experience in Practicing General Dentistry and 25 years in Orthodontics. She has thousands of hours of advanced training. In 2000, Academy of General Dentistry awarded Dr. Carter a Certificate of Mastership (MAGD) in General Dentistry. According to the Journal of the Academy of General Dentistry, only 1% of US dentists achieve this high level of advancement. Dr. Carter is a Certified and Preferred Provider of Invisalign. She has successfully treated over 360 patients with Invisalign.

Did you enjoy this blog? if yes would you send it to a friend please?

Web Site The Doctor Invisalign Dental Services Testimonial Hours Appointment Education Feed Back Refer Us Contact Us Mobile Web Like Us On Facebook!

Redding Dentist: Gum Disease May Result to Pancreatic Cancer

 

Gum Disease and Pancreatic Cancer

This article, which is written Dr. Parvin Carter DDS, MAGD, a general dentist in Redding, CA, is dicussing the link between gum disease and pancreatic cancer

Gum disease, which affects more than half of all Americans, has been linked to stroke, diabetes and other ailments. According to recent research from the Harvard Medical School involving more than 51,000 men pancreatic cancer is also linked to gum disease.

Pancreatic cancer, a leading cause of cancer deaths, is elusive, with vague symptoms that often lead to late diagnosis. It is an extremely difficult cancer to treat and little is known about what causes it.

“Men who had reported periodontal disease had a 64 percent higher risk of pancreatic cancer compared to those who didn’t have gum disease,” said the study’s lead author, Dominique S. Michaud.

The study provides the first strong evidence that gum disease may increase pancreatic cancer risk, added Michaud, an assistant professor of epidemiology at the Harvard School of Public Health in Boston.

The pancreas, a gland behind the stomach, makes pancreatic juice, which helps break down fats and proteins in foods. The gland also produces the hormone insulin, which helps regulate blood sugar.
One possible explanation for the results is that inflammation from periodontal disease may promote cancer of the pancreas. “Individuals with periodontal disease have elevated serum biomarkers of systemic inflammation, such as C-reactive protein, and these may somehow contribute to the promotion of cancer cells,” she said.

Another explanation, according to Michaud, is that periodontal disease could lead to increased pancreatic carcinogenesis because individuals with periodontal disease have higher levels of oral bacteria and higher levels of nitrosamines, which are carcinogens, in their oral cavity. Prior studies have shown that nitrosamines and gastric acidity may play a role in pancreatic cancer.

In their 16-year study, Michaud and her colleagues followed 51,529 men who participated in the Health Professional Follow-Up Study, which began in 1986. The researchers controlled for the effects of smoking.

“Our study was a prospective study of health professionals,” Michaud said. “Not MDs, but dentists, podiatrists, veterinarians.”
“People with periodontal disease have higher blood levels of C-reactive protein, an inflammatory marker that has been associated with heart disease,” Michaud said. “Periodontal disease is also linked to heart disease in some studies.” The inflammation may somehow contribute to the promotion of cancer cells, she added.

“Pancreatic cancer is one of those diseases we don’t know much about,” she said. “Once you get it, the survival rate is very low.”
This research “confirms that inflammation may play an important role in pancreatic cancer,” she said.
According to Michaud, the findings should also “give consumers one more reason to really take care of their teeth and their oral health. I think that’s really the message.

Bottom Line:

Periodontitis is a silent disease. People with the disease rarely experience pain and may not be aware of the problem. Healthy habits and good oral hygiene are critical in preventing gum disease. A periodontal examination by a general dentist twice a year should reveal any incipient or progressive problems. A full mouth series of x-rays is advised. This will alert the dentist to early bone loss and other disorders of the oral cavity.
Dr. Parvin Carter has over 30 years of experience in Dentistry; she is a Preferred Provider of Invisalign and the director of A Redding Invisalign She received her degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery, from Indiana University Dental School, in 1982, after which she immediately opened her private practice.
In July 1990 she received fellowship award from academy of General Dentistry. This award requires 600 hours of continuing education and passing required examination. In July 2000 Dr. Carter received Mastership award from Academy of General Dentistry. This is the highest award for continuing education. This award requires 800hours of participation in dentistry specialties. According to the Journal of the Academy of General Dentistry, only 1% of US dentists achieve this high level of advancement.
Dr. Carter’s expertises are:
Invisalign, orthodontics, advanced TMJ treatment, oral surgery, sleep Disorders, placement of implants, restorations of cosmetic dentistry, whole mouth rehabilitation, fixed and removable prosthodontic, periodontics (soft tissue management), tooth and implant supported over dentures, endodontics, molars and anterior.

Dr. Parvin Carter is Certified and Preferred Provider of Invisalign. She has successfully treated over 368 patients with Invisalign. To find out more please see http://drparvincarter.com.

Web Site The Doctor Invisalign Dental Services Testimonial Hours Appointment Education Feed Back Refer Us Contact Us Mobile Web Like Us On Facebook!

Redding Dentist: How to Stop Teeth Grinding in Sleep

Most people probably grind and clench their teeth from time to time. Occasional teeth grinding, medically called bruxism, does not usually cause harm. However,frequent and severe teeth grinding can lead to jaw disorders, headaches, earache, Jaw clicking, damaged teeth and other oral health complications.

Why Do People Grind Their Teeth?

Cause of teeth grinding are thought to be related to stress, anxiety, abnormal bite, missing or crooked teeth.There is also a strong association between Bruxism and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA is a sleep disorder where your breathing is interrupted during your sleep.

How Do I Find Out if I Grind My Teeth?

People with severe bruxism can break dental fillings or damage their teeth. Rubbing the teeth together can cause the outer layers of enamel to wear away, exposing dentin. This can result in tooth sensitivity. Severe Bruxism also has been blamed for:

• Rhythmic contractions of the jaw muscles
• A grinding sound at night, which may disturb the sleep of someone who shares a bedroom with you
• A dull morning headache
• Jaw muscles that are tight or painful – This can make it uncomfortable, even painful, to open your mouth wide, especially in the morning
• Long-lasting pain in the face
• Damaged teeth, broken dental fillings and injured gums
• Painful jaw joint
• Swelling (occasionally) on the side of your lower jaw caused by clenching. Chronic clenching exercises the jaw muscles. Like lifting weights, this makes the muscles grow larger. Once you stop clenching, the muscles will shrink and the swelling will go away.

Why Is Teeth Grinding Harmful?

In some cases, chronic teeth grinding can result in a fracturing, loosening, or loss of teeth. The chronic grinding may wear teeth down to stumps. When these events happen, bridges, crowns, root canals, implants, partial dentures, and even complete dentures may be needed.

Not only can severe grinding damage teeth and result in tooth loss, it can also affect your jaws, resulting to hearing loss, cause or worsen TMD/TMJ, and even change the appearance of your face.

How do I Stop Grinding My Teeth in Sleep?

Stress reduction and anxiety management may reduce Bruxism in people prone to the condition.

• Try to reduce your daily stress and learn relaxation techniques.
• Get plenty of sleep.
• Learn physical therapy stretching exercises to help restore a normal balance to the action of the muscles and joints on each side of the head.
• Relax your face and jaw muscles throughout the day. The goal is to make facial relaxation a habit.
• Avoid or cut back on foods and drinks that contain caffeine, such as colas, chocolate, and coffee.
• Avoid alcohol. Grinding tends to intensify after alcohol consumption.
• Train yourself not to clench or grind your teeth. If you notice that you clench or grind during the day, position the tip of your tongue between your teeth. This practice trains your jaw muscles to relax.
• Relax your jaw muscles at night by holding a warm washcloth against your cheek in front of your earlobe.

If none of these helped and you observed continuing damage to your teeth,  ear aches, jaw pain and other TMJ symptoms, see your dentist to stop further oral health complications. Dentists who have more experience in evaluating and treating TMJ disorders would easily evaluate and treat grinding and clinching teeth.

Dr. Parvin Carter has over 30 years of experience in Dentistry; she is a Preferred Provider of Invisalign and the director of A Redding Invisalign Center. She received her degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery, from Indiana University Dental School, in 1982, after which she immediately opened her private practice.
In July 1990 she received fellowship award from academy of General Dentistry. This award requires 600 hours of continuing education and passing required examination. In July 2000 Dr. Carter received Mastership award from Academy of General Dentistry. This is the highest award for continuing education. This award requires 800 hours of participation in dentistry specialties. According to the Journal of the Academy of General Dentistry, only 1% of US dentists achieve this high level of advancement.
Dr. Carter’s expertise are:
Invisalign, orthodontics, advanced TMJ treatment, oral surgery, sleep Disorders, placement of implants, restorations of cosmetic dentistry, whole mouth rehabilitation, fixed and removable prosthodontic, periodontics (soft tissue management), tooth and implant supported over dentures, endodontics, molars and anterior and sedation dentistry.

Dr. Parvin Carter is Certified and Preferred Provider of Invisalign. She has successfully treated over 365 patients with Invisalign. To find out more please see http://drparvincarter.com.

Web Site The Doctor Invisalign Dental Services Testimonial Hours Appointment Education Feed Back Refer Us Contact Us Mobile Web Like Us On Facebook!

Dr. Parvin Carter has over 30 years of experience in Dentistry; she is a Preferred Provider of Invisalign and the director of A Redding Invisalign Center. She received her degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery, from Indiana University Dental School, in 1982, after which she immediately opened her private practice.
In July 1990 she received fellowship award from academy of General Dentistry. This award requires 600 hours of continuing education and passing required examination. In July 2000 Dr. Carter received Mastership award from Academy of General Dentistry. This is the highest award for continuing education. This award requires 800 hours of participation in dentistry specialties. According to the Journal of the Academy of General Dentistry, only 1% of US dentists achieve this high level of advancement.
Dr. Carter’s expertise are:
Invisalign, orthodontics, advanced TMJ treatment, oral surgery, sleep Disorders, placement of implants, restorations of cosmetic dentistry, whole mouth rehabilitation, fixed and removable prosthodontic, periodontics (soft tissue management), tooth and implant supported over dentures, endodontics, molars and anterior and sedation dentistry.

Dr. Parvin Carter is Certified and Preferred Provider of Invisalign. She has successfully treated over 365 patients with Invisalign. To find out more please see http://drparvincarter.com.

Web Site The Doctor Invisalign Dental Services Testimonial Hours Appointment Education Feed Back Refer Us Contact Us Mobile Web Like Us On Facebook!

Dentist in Redding: Stop Snoring!

Wake up! Most people don’t associate a good night’s sleep with oral health. But if you’re suffering from sleep problems, your dentist can help. Most dentist will not charge you for evaluation for sleep problems.This is a medical problem with a dental solution and most medical insurances cover the cost of treatment.
If you don’t get enough sleep, your body won’t work properly. Do you snore or grind your teeth at night? Both problems will affect your sleep.

You may be among the 45% of normal adults who snore at least occasionally or you likely know someone who does. He (or she) may be the brunt of jokes at family gatherings (“Uncle Joe snores so loudly he rattles the windows!”), but snoring is serious business.

For one, a snoring spouse often keeps the other person from a good night’s sleep, which can eventually lead to separate bedrooms. “Snoring can create real problems in a marriage,” says Daniel P. Slaughter, MD, an otolaryngologist and snoring expert at Capital Otolaryngology in Austin, Texas.

Do-it-Yourself remedies to stop snoring:

• If you’re overweight, lose weight.

• Sleep on your side.

• Raise the head of your bed.

• Nasal strips. Adhesive strips applied to your nose could help

• Limit or avoid alcohol and sedatives. Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages at least two hours before bedtime.

Sedatives and alcohol depress your central nervous system, causing excessive relaxation of muscles, including the tissues in your throat.

Studies show  75% of people who snore have obstructive sleepapnea.

Sleep Apnea could result to the following health problems:

• High Blood Pressure.
• Coronary Artery Disease and Heart Attack.
•  Stroke. Sleep apnea may increase the risk of death in patients who have previously had a stroke.
• Heart Failure.
•  Atrial Fibrillation.
• Diabetes. Severe obstructive sleep apnea is associated with type 2 diabetes.
• Obesity. sleep apnea increases the risk for weight gain.
• Pulmonary hypertension (high pressure in the arteries of the lungs).
• Asthma.
• Seizures, epilepsy, and other nerve disorders.
• High-risk pregnancies. Sleep apnea may increase the risk of pregnancy complications, including gestational diabetes and high blood pressure.
• Eye disorders, including glaucoma, floppy eyelid syndrome, optic neuropathy

How could my dentist help my snoring ?

Most dentists have undergone special training for the treatment of snoring and sleep apnea and are very skilled in its management using dental appliances.Your dentist can help you keep from snoring by ordering you a dental device that resembles a mouthguard worn by athletes. If you have sleep apnea, consult with your dentist for additional options. You may require an oral appliance that opens the airway and reduces the obstruction.

How oral appliances work:

• Re-positioning the lower jaw, tongue, soft palate and uvula
• Stabilizing the lower jaw and tongue
• Increasing the muscle tone of the tongue.

If you grind your teeth at night, your dentist can prescribe an oral appliance to protect your tooth enamel.

Call your dentist today and ask for a free consult for sleep problem evaluation.

Dr. Parvin Carter has over 30 years of experience in Dentistry; she is a Preferred Provider of Invisalign and the director of A Redding Invisalign Center. She received her degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery, from Indiana University Dental School, in 1982, after which she immediately opened her private practice.
In July 1990 she received fellowship award from academy of General Dentistry. This award requires 600 hours of continuing education and passing required examination. In July 2000 Dr. Carter received Mastership award from Academy of General Dentistry. This is the highest award for continuing education. This award requires 800 hours of participation in dentistry specialties. According to the Journal of the Academy of General Dentistry, only 1% of US dentists achieve this high level of advancement.
Dr. Carter’s expertise are:
Invisalign, orthodontics, advanced TMJ treatment, oral surgery, sleep Disorders, placement of implants, restorations of cosmetic dentistry, whole mouth rehabilitation, fixed and removable prosthodontic, periodontics (soft tissue management), tooth and implant supported over dentures, endodontics, molars and anterior and sedation dentistry.

Dr. Parvin Carter is Certified and Preferred Provider of Invisalign. She has successfully treated over 368 patients with Invisalign. To find out more please see http://drparvincarter.com.

Web Site The Doctor Invisalign Dental Services Testimonial Hours Appointment Education Feed Back Refer Us Contact Us Mobile Web Like Us On Facebook!

Dental Care for Seniors

http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-care-seniors?ecd=wnl_orh_112513&ctr=wnl-orh-112513_promo_2&mb=gzV45oI%40z%40xKqZl3bnaAEuHnVev1imbC6WZaxfVnxd0%3d

Dentist in Redding: 7 Natural Remedies for Dental Whitening

Nothing is more rejuvenating than a beautiful, white smile. 

Whitening your teeth is one of the fastest ways to turn back the clock.Two thousand Brits had to estimate the age of the model in the photo. One photo showed a woman with a radiant white smile, the other the same woman with yellowish, rather uncared for teeth. On average, the 31 year old model was estimated to be 44,  13 years older than actual.

Have your pearly whites lost their luster?

Have your pearly whites lost their luster because of dingy gray or yellow stains? Stained teeth can occur as we age, but some common foods, drinks, and even mouthwashes can stain teeth. Do-it-yourself remedies can help whiten teeth, and avoiding substances that stain teeth can stop further discoloration.

Use these secrets to whiter teeth to restore your bright smile:

1. Baking soda

Renowned as a safe, inexpensive way to get rid of household stains, that little orange box of baking soda may  make your teeth whiter through its gentle abrasive action. Sprinkle baking soda on top of toothpaste, or add directly to your toothbrush. Do not use it daily, as it may harm enamel.

2. Eating crunchy foods

Eating crunchy foods such as celery, apples, pears,cucumbers, broccoli and carrots are also natural simple tooth whiteners. Because they’re crunchy, they get the saliva going, aiding in lessening tooth stains. Saliva helps wash away food debris as well.

3.Try fruits with tooth whitening abilities.

Certain fruits have the ability to whiten teeth naturally. They act as excellent and simple tooth whiteners or bleachers. Take strawberries, for instance — they contain natural whitening agents and are one of the popular home remedies for tooth whitening and bleaching.

rub strawberry onto your teeth or make a paste out of strawberries. It is necessary to brush your teeth immediately with toothpaste after rubbing strawberry on them, though, because they contain acids and sugars that can be harmful to your teeth.
Consume more raisins. Just like crunchy veggies, raisins induce higher levels of saliva production. This constant tooth washing helps rinse the plaque away and prevents build up.

4. Milk and yogurt

Milk and yogurt, keep teeth sparkling and cavity-free, too, because they contain the minerals calcium and phosphorus, which promote the remineralziation of tooth enamel.

You may be thinking that strong enamel has nothing to do with a white smile, but it does. It’s the outermost layer of your teeth and, therefore, is not only what you see, but also a protectant. When it becomes stained, it determines the color of your tooth. Replenishing the calcium and phosphate that builds it up will keep it strong and healthy.

5. Herbs

Herbalist Barbara Griggs recommends an old-fashioned quick tooth-whitening remedy which can be done in the great outdoors. According to Griggs, simply taking a sage leaf from your herb garden and wiping it over teeth and gums may make them brighter because of sage’s astringent properties. Alternatively, dry and grind sage leaves for use as a tooth powder, or infuse fresh leaves and rinse with the cooled, strained water.
there are some new  herbs in town. “Coriander, spearmint, tarragon, eucalyptus, rosemary and cardamom that might cause dental whitening.  These are also good for fighting bad breath,” says Dr. Christine Gerbstadt, who has lectured on oral health. You can chew on fresh herbs or make tonics by steeping them in hot water (as a tea). These herbs make an excellent digestive as well—doubling the benefits of ending a meal this way.

6. Simply rinses your mouth

 Sometimes, the simplest solutions get overlooked. Simply rinses your mouth as soon as possible after eating may go a long way in preventing coffee, sodas and other staining agents from lingering in the mouth. According to Sid Kirchheimer in “The Doctors Book of Home Remedies II,” even the simple act of discreetly swishing water in your mouth before swallowing makes a big difference when you can’t get to a restroom to rinse or brush your teeth.

7. Brush and floss.

Preventing your teeth from discoloration is easier than removing stains, which is why these natural tooth whitening and bleaching techniques are extremely important. Brushing and flossing play a huge (the hugest) role in keeping teeth clean and white. Failing to keep up on these habits allows staining and tooth decay to creep in, both of which cause discoloration.

Flossing is just as important. There are stains between your teeth too! And what’s more, it promotes gum health as well. If your gums are red and puffy, doesn’t matter how white your teeth are.

CONSIDERATIONS

Take a picture of your teeth before whitening. The process is gradual and you may not notice color change without comparing to a before picture.

 If bleaching doesn’t help, ask your dentist about dental bonding, in which a tooth-colored material is applied to teeth.

Dr. Parvin Carter has over 30 years of experience in Dentistry; she is a Preferred Provider of Invisalign and the director of A Redding Invisalign Center. She received her degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery, from Indiana University Dental School, in 1982, after which she immediately opened her private practice.
In July 1990 she received fellowship award from academy of General Dentistry. This award requires 600 hours of continuing education and passing required examination. In July 2000 Dr. Carter received Mastership award from Academy of General Dentistry. This is the highest award for continuing education. This award requires 800 hours of participation in dentistry specialties. According to the Journal of the Academy of General Dentistry, only 1% of US dentists achieve this high level of advancement.
Dr. Carter’s expertise are:
Invisalign, orthodontics, advanced TMJ treatment, oral surgery, sleep Disorders, placement of implants, restorations of cosmetic dentistry, whole mouth rehabilitation, fixed and removable prosthodontic, periodontics (soft tissue management), tooth and implant supported over dentures, endodontics, molars and anterior and sedation dentistry.

Dr. Parvin Carter is Certified and Preferred Provider of Invisalign. She has successfully treated over 365 patients with Invisalign. To find out more please see http://drparvincarter.com.

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Redding Dentist: What Is Involved In Dental Cleaning ?

Teeth cleaning (also known as prophylaxis, literally a preventative treatment of a disease) is a procedure for the removal of tartar(mineralized plaque) that may develop even with careful brushing and flossing, especially in areas that are difficult to reach in routine tooth brushing. It is often done by a dental hygienist. Professional cleaning includes tooth scaling and tooth polishing and debridement if too much tartar has accumulated. This involves the use of various instruments or devices to loosen and remove deposits from the teeth.

The AGD strongly recommends that a dentist or hygienist perform a dental cleaning every six months. This professional dental cleaning reinforces the home-care oral health regimen of brushing and flossing and gives the dentist an opportunity to locate areas in the mouth that may need special attention.

 

During a dental cleaning, you’ll receive diagnostic and preventive services from your hygienist as well as any needed educational information.

Diagnostic services may include:

• Reviewing and updating medical history, including information about heart problems, pregnancy, diabetes and medications, which may have an impact on your oral health
• Oral cancer examination and screening
• Evaluation of gum tissue
• Checking biting, chewing and swallowing patterns
• X-rays or examination of teeth to detect decay
• Referral to specialists for specific treatment

Preventive services may include:

• Removal of plaque and tartar
• Stain removal
• Fluoride application
• Sealants (for children)
• Polishing teeth, including fillings and crowns
• Cleaning and adjustment of dentures and partial dentures

Educational services may include:

• Tooth brushing and flossing instructions
• Nutritional counseling
• Recommendations for future treatment: when to return for follow-up hygiene treatment, periodontal (gum) concerns or restorative options
• Evaluation of self-care effectiveness

Dr. Parvin Carter has over 30 years of experience in Dentistry; she is a Preferred Provider of Invisalign and the director of A Redding Invisalign Center. She received her degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery, from Indiana University Dental School, in 1982, after which she immediately opened her private practice.
In July 1990 she received fellowship award from academy of General Dentistry. This award requires 600 hours of continuing education and passing required examination. In July 2000 Dr. Carter received Mastership award from Academy of General Dentistry. This is the highest award for continuing education. This award requires 800 hours of participation in dentistry specialties. According to the Journal of the Academy of General Dentistry, only 1% of US dentists achieve this high level of advancement.
Dr. Carter’s expertise are:
Invisalign, orthodontics, advanced TMJ treatment, oral surgery, sleep Disorders, placement of implants, restorations of cosmetic dentistry, whole mouth rehabilitation, fixed and removable prosthodontic, periodontics (soft tissue management), tooth and implant supported over dentures, endodontics, molars and anterior and sedation dentistry.

Dr. Parvin Carter is Certified and Preferred Provider of Invisalign. She has successfully treated over 365 patients with Invisalign. To find out more please see http://drparvincarter.com.

 

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How Does Your Dentist Determines Gum Diseases?

If you have been told you have periodontal (gum) disease, you’re not alone. Many adults in the U.S. currently have some form of the disease. Periodontal diseases range from simple gum inflammation to serious disease that results in major damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. In the worst cases, teeth are lost.

What are The Cause of Gum Diseases?

Gum disease is caused by the growth of bacteria on the teeth and gums. Bacteria are present in plaque, a clear, sticky substance your mouth produces. If plaque is not removed promptly, it builds up on the teeth.

• The bacteria in plaque feed on sugars in the foods you eat and drink and produce poisons (toxins) and other chemicals.
• The toxins irritate your gums, causing them to swell and bleed easily when brushed.
• Plaque can harden into a mineral buildup called calculus or tartar, which further irritates the gums and causes them to pull away from your teeth.

While bacteria are the direct cause of gum disease, a number of other things also affect the health of your gums.

• Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during pregnancy, puberty, menopause, and monthly menstruation, make gums more sensitive, which makes it easier for gingivitis to develop.
• Illnesses may affect the condition of your gums. This includes diseases such ascancer or HIV that interfere with the immune system. Because diabetes affects the body’s ability to use blood sugar, patients with this disease are at higher risk of developing infections, including periodontal disease and cavities.
• Medications can affect oral health, because some lessen the flow of saliva, which has a protective effect on teeth and gums. Some drugs, such as the anticonvulsant medication Dilantin and the anti-angina drug Procardia andAdalat, can cause abnormal growth of gum tissue.
• Bad habits such as smoking make it harder for gum tissue to repair itself.
• Poor oral hygiene habits such as not brushing and flossing on a daily basis, make it easier for gingivitis to develop.
• Family history of dental disease can be a contributing factor for the development of gingivitis.

How Does Your Dentist Diagnoses Gum Disease?

Your dentist can look at  Bone loss. This can be determined not only visually, but also via the x-rays, and periodontal probings. If you’ve ever heard your dentist or dental hygienist calling out numbers and noting them in your dental chart at your regular checkup, then you’ve experienced “pocket probing” or “charting.” As part of a routine checkup, the dentist completes a periodontal examination to measure the depth of the spaces (“pockets”) between your teeth and gums, and checks for bleeding.

Your dentist or hygienist  uses a small measuring stick called a periodontal probe and measures the architecture of the bone structure around each and every tooth you possess. Each tooth has 6 surfaces- 3 in the front and 3 in the back. Normal probing depths are sort of like golf scores- the lower the number the better the prognosis of a tooth. Generally 1-3 millimeters is normal. It means you are flossing and doing what you’re supposed to be doing. It could also mean you aren’t flossing and you just have awesome genetics.

Detection of bleeding and pockets of four or more millimeters in depth are one way for your dentist to identify gingivitis and periodontitis.

How Is Gum Disease Treated?

The goals of gum disease treatment are to promote reattachment of healthy gums to teeth; reduce swelling, the depth of pockets, and the risk of infection; and to stop disease progression. Treatment options depend on the stage of disease, how you may have responded to earlier treatments, and your overall health. Options range from nonsurgical therapies that control bacterial growth to surgery to restore supportive tissues. A full description of the various treatment options is provided in Gum Disease Treatments.

In dentistry experience and Continuing Education are everything. Dr. Parvin Carter has over 30 years of experience in Practicing General Dentistry and 25 years in Orthodontics. She has thousands of hours of advanced training. In 2000, Academy of General Dentistry awarded Dr. Carter a Certificate of Mastership (MAGD) in General Dentistry. According to the Journal of the Academy of General Dentistry, only 1% of US dentists achieve this high level of advancement. Dr. Carter is a Certified and Preferred Provider of Invisalign. She has successfully treated over 360 patients with Invisalign.

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