Teeth Whitening.. Do's & Don'ts

The initial first step, when deciding to whiten your teeth, must be a dental examination with x-ray pictures taken. There are several causes of tooth discoloration- abscessed teeth, decay, Turner's Tooth, Tetracycline stain, to name a few- for which bleaching will not solve. Also, exposed tooth roots will not bleach and your results will not be ideal; cosmetic treatment options other than whitening would be better solutions for this problem. Your Dentist can determine the proper treatment and decide if bleaching is right for you. 

Can Whitening Damage My Teeth?

Proper bleaching with low solutions of peroxide have been determined safe to use and will not harm the enamel. There are blogs or Pinterest ideas that suggest using a lemon juice and baking soda paste on your teeth to remove stain. Does this work? Possibly. Is it harmful? Yes. The acidity level (on the pH scale) of lemon juice is 2. Battery acid or sulfuric acid (on the pH scale) are 0 and 1. Anything with that amount of acidity is bound to destroy your enamel, and remember, once its gone... its gone. The most common and thoroughly researched bleaching products are 10% carbamide peroxide (used at home in trays), and 35% hydrogen peroxide (used in office). Carbamide peroxide is a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and urea, and has a longer wear time. This product does not break down as quickly as hydrogen peroxide and also helps lessen the acidity level where the enamel is not affected. Hydrogen peroxide may contain stronger concentrations but only stays active up to an hour. With a high acidic level, this product should not be left on the teeth for extensive lengths of time. 

What About Tooth Sensitivity?

If you already suffer from tooth sensitivity... beware! Most people complain of sensitivity and therefore do not continue bleaching. However, there are things you can do to prevent or lessen the amount of sensitivity that will occur. Potassium Nitrate is the active ingredient used in sensitivity toothpastes, including Sensodyne. Potassium Nitrate works by shielding nerve endings and blocking the pain impulse to the brain. Studies suggest by using a sensitivity toothpaste 2 WEEKS prior to bleaching, as well as after, may lessen the sensitivity up to 90%.  In-office fluoride treatments can also help decrease sensitivity by blocking the nerve endings. Finding a toothpaste that has fluoride and potassium nitrate is ideal. Through experience, our Dental Hygienist has found, that patients find relief by placing a sensitivity toothpaste into their trays and wearing them up to 30 minutes prior to bleaching. Her patients also receive a 5% sodium fluoride treatment at every 6 month hygiene appointment. 


Do All Teeth Whiten?

Every persons whitening capabilities are different and each set of teeth have their own whitening capacity at which point they will no longer whiten. Just like everyone has their own shade of skin, everyone has their own shade of teeth. Peroxide goes through the enamel, through the dentin and changes the genetic color. Often times, someones teeth may contain stain; making them look less white. This stain can be removed by swishing with an over-the-counter hydrogen peroxide or brushing with a baking soda paste. This process does not penetrate the tooth but removes any surface enamel stain, improving the whiteness of the teeth. As stated before, some teeth are discolored for different reasons. Tetracycline stain is an internal stain that cannot be removed and possibly will not whiten. Again, your dentist can determine if whitening is right for you. 

Tetracycline Stain

Whitening Procedures..

The most common tooth whitening procedures are, an in-office treatment and at-home whitening trays. In-office treatments are generally expensive but give a quicker result than bleaching at home. You can expect a 2-4 shade difference with this procedure. At-home whitening trays may produce the same result as an in-office treatment but with a few weeks time. At Cornerstone Dental Care, we use an in-office bleaching system called Boost. A 40% hydrogen peroxide gel is placed on the teeth for 2-3, 20 minute applications. A barrier is placed around the gums to prevent them from burning during the treatment. We have seen great results with this in-office whitening treatment! Dr. Liddiard cherishes his patients and rewards them with Free Whitening for Life! Each patient is made personal whitening trays to be used at home and we supply you with bleach at every 6 month hygiene appointment! 

Keep up with your regular dental hygiene appointments and always remember to brush and floss daily to keep plaque from accumulating. Good oral hygiene will always help to keep your teeth white longer! Also, it is important to remember that all aspects of teeth whitening are best performed under professional care. 

-A Healthy Body Starts With a Healthy Smile- 

Why Use Xylitol?

The average american eats 31 teaspoons of sugar per day. These sugary foods attack our teeth, create plaque formation and increase tooth decay. It is nearly impossible to cut all sugar out of our diets. So, a more reasonable approach would be to limit the amount of sugar and incorporate xylitol into our diet. 

Xylitol is five-carbon sugar alcohol. However, sugar alcohols are neither sugar nor alcohol, but are carbohydrates without the harmful effects. Xylitol is extracted from Birch Trees or corn cobs, but also occurs naturally in our bodies. An average adult produces 5-15 grams of Xylitol during normal metabolism. Unfortunately, the process occurs in the gut and therefore has no oral benefits. 

So what are the oral benefits of Xylitol?

• Helps prevent tooth decay by reducing plaque formation
• Blocks the acids that demineralize tooth enamel 
• Stops the growth of bacteria that produce acid
• Minimizes gingival inflammation
• Has 40% fewer calories than sugar- glycemic index of 7
• Raises the pH of the mouth to be more alkaline

Most of our carbohydrate sugars are based on a six-carbon molecule chain. These units link together and multiply; oral bacteria use these chains as their primary food source. Once eaten and digested, bacteria secrete an acid which creates a primary spot for plaque to accumulate. This continual secretion of acid onto our teeth daily begins to wear at our enamel, softening it and creating a hole. Xylitol works by its unique five-carbon chain and does not connect with other molecules. Oral bacteria can not digest this molecule and die rather than secreting the acid that is so harmful to our teeth. 

How do we use Xylitol?

Recent research has suggested that it is not the amount of xylitol daily but rather the frequency. Researchers have stated to "Strive For Five". This slogan recommends getting 5 exposures of 100% Xylitol spread throughout the day. Rather than thinking of "how much" think of "how often". There are several Xylitol containing products to incorporate such as toothpaste, mouthwash, nasal spray, gum, mints and candy. 

Strive For Five!

• Upon awakening use Xylitol toothpaste and mouthwash.
• Throughout the day use Xylitol gum or mints.
• Craving something sweet? Have a few pieces of Xylitol candy.
• Rub a small amount of Xylitol tooth gel on toddlers teeth or binkies.
• Before bedtime use Xylitol toothpaste and mouthwash. 
• 
  

To buy 100% Xylitol containing products visit Xlear.com OR just visit our office! We offer a wide range of products that will suit your needs!

Although dental decay is largely preventable, it is still considered the most infectious disease among children and adults. By incorporating Xylitol into our daily routines and diets we can reduce tooth decay in ourselves and in our families.

Sources

http://www.rdhmag.com

http://www.xylitol.org

-A Healthy Body Starts With a Healthy Smile-

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentistry is aimed at creating a positive change to your smile. Dr. Liddiard is a skilled, experienced dentist that can help to improve your appearance, smile and even restore confidence and self-esteem. He is able to artistically re-shape your teeth, close spaces, restore worn or short teeth or even alter the length of your teeth. 

Sometimes a porcelain crown is necessary to re-create form and function of a damaged tooth. However, crowns are not just for replacing the original tooth, but can be designed to create an even better aesthetic appearance. These before/after photos are just a few of Dr. Liddiard's patients that depict both situations. 

**Faces have been cropped for privacy and HIPPA regulations.

If you are one of these people that is unhappy with the appearance of your teeth, we would love to help you smile again! We truly cherish the times when a patient sees their new teeth for the first time and can now smile with confidence. 

-A Healthy Body Starts With a Healthy Smile- 

Just What is Oil Pulling?

Swishing 1 tablespoon of oil for 20 minutes doesn't sound too exciting, but what if it had several healing benefits. Would you try it? Oil pulling is a growing trend, but it is far from new. This ancient Indian therapy is a type of Ayurvedic medicine, and dates back over 3,000 years ago. Practitioners of oil pulling claim that it is capable of improving oral and systemic health as well as bettering migraines, diabetes mellitus, asthma, acne and even whitening of teeth. Ayurvedic medicine promoters claim that oil pulling works by "pulling out" toxins therefore reducing inflammation. However, oil pulling has received very little study and has not been scientifically proven to promote these claims. Even after several limited studies, the mechanism of the action of oil pulling is still unclear. However, after doing some research, this is what we do know.

Sesame Oil is loaded with essential minerals such as manganese, copper, iron, phosphorus and calcium. It also is high in Vitamin E, antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. Coconut Oil also has high amounts of Vitamin E, antioxidants and thanks to lauric acid and monolaurin, it has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Which oil is superior? Both promote great health benefits and therefore comes down to which oil you think is better tasting. 

The suggestion of the mechanism of oil pulling is:

• it provides a surface layer that bacteria and plaque cannot adhere to.
• by increasing the secretion of saliva, oil pulling uses saliva to trap the toxin within the oil.
• sesame oil is very soothing and can moisturize the gums, providing relief to those with dry mouth.
• the swishing action could dislodge the bacteria from crevices in the mouth.

To perform oil pulling, simply rinse with an oil much like rinsing with a mouthwash. "Pulling" it between your teeth is the key. Users have suggested starting with 5 minutes and building your way up to the full time. Once finished, just spit the oil into the trash can. 

The American Dental Association expressed that rather than oil pulling, they suggest- brushing twice daily, flossing and rinsing with an antiseptic mouth wash. The Canadian Dental Association stated, "We sense oil pulling won't do any harm, but we're not convinced there are any particular benefits to it."

We still don't know if oil pulling does everything it claims to, but we do know oil pulling is not going to hurt us. Oil pulling could be a great adjunct to your oral health routine of brushing and flossing, rather a supplemental therapy, but it should never replace your routine dental visits!

-A Healthy Body Starts With a Healthy Smile- 

Toothache types... what do they mean?

A toothache can be debilitating! Tooth pain can range in severity and be some of the worst pain you will experience. Especially if the pain is left untreated and a dental abscess is formed. However, sometimes the pain is actually occurring from a different part of the body. This is called referred pain. For example, a sinus infection can cause your upper teeth to feel sore and ache for hours.  

So what does your dental pain mean?

Some common causes of dental pain include: 

• Dental Decay: this is the most common cause.
• Nerve Damage: this can be from decay, deep fillings, clenching, grinding or trauma to the tooth. An abscess will usually occur. 
• Root Fracture: a cause could be a car accident or facial trauma.
• Cracked Crown: this can be from facial trauma or jaw clenching.
• Impacted Wisdom Teeth
• Dental Sensitivity: possibly from recession, root exposure or tooth wear.
• Gum Disease: gum disease can sometimes cause a periodontal abscess.

Dr. Liddiard will perform a thorough exam of your mouth, teeth and gums, and will always take a dental x-ray. He may recommend other tests, like an endodontic ice test, depending on the suspected cause. Dr. Liddiard, the dental hygienist or dental assistant will ask questions about your medical history and symptoms, including:

• When did the pain start?
• How bad is the pain and where is it located?
• Is the pain heightened from hot or cold?
• Does the pain wake you up at night? Does your tooth throb?
• Do you have any other symptoms, such as fever?
• Have you had any facial injuries?
• How is your flossing and brushing?
• When was your last dental visit?

Treatment may involve fillings, tooth removal, or a root canal, if the problem is severe. You may need to take an antibiotic for any infection. 

What type of toothache are you having? 

Sharp, Intermittent Pain or Cold Sensitivity- sensitivity to cold is usually sharp, sudden and doesn't last. You may have gum recession, enamel wear or a small dental cavity.

Sharp, Intermittent Pain or Heat Sensitivity- sensitivity to heat can signify a small cavity, but could be the result from a dental abscess, crack or severe decay.

Intense, Throbbing Pain- this type of pain can last for minutes to hours. This is usually from a dental abscess or dying tooth. Clenching and grinding can cause a tooth to slowly die. 

Painful Chewing- if the pain only occurs with pressure or chewing, this can be from a cracked crown or root fracture. 

Jaw Pain- pain in the back of the mouth may be from impacted wisdom teeth, TMD (Temporomandibular Disorder), or teeth grinding. Pain from a dental abscess can also radiate into the jaw. 

Tooth pain ranges in severity. An intermittent ache may be somewhat bothersome while a chronic dull ache can lead you to immediate attention. Whatever the case, toothaches should not be ignored. A dental abscess, left untreated, can cause facial swelling and send the infection into your bloodstream. So, making a dental appointment should be your first priority. Sitting, waiting and hoping the pain goes away is never a smart move. Even if it does vanish, you can expect the pain to return! 

-A Healthy Body Starts with a Healthy Smile- 

Meet Our Team...

Our patients mean the world to us! So, to help you feel right at home, we invite you to meet our Doctor, Dental Team and take a look inside Cornerstone Dental Care! 

Dr. K. John Liddiard attended Brigham Young University as an undergraduate, then studied at Oregon Health Science University School of Dentistry where he received his D.M.D. (Doctor of Dental Medicine Degree). He began practicing general and cosmetic dentistry in 1994. He is a member of GP Orthodontics, the Utah Dental Association and the American Dental Association. He is passionate about helping people and truly cares for their well-being. When Dr. Liddiard is out of the office, he appreciates spending time with his family and friends. He enjoys traveling, scuba diving and golfing. 

FRONT OFFICE 

Lacey W. is our Office Manager here at Cornerstone Dental care. She has been working in the dental field for 10 years and loves what she does. She enjoys getting to know every patient. During her free time she loves to travel, run and spend time with her friends and family. 

Marcie is our Financial Coordinator. She has worked for Dr. Liddiard for over 16 years. She has an amazing knowledge for dental assisting and front office responsibilities. She has 3 beautiful children and a wonderful husband. She enjoys reading, crafting, sewing and spending time outdoors. 

Aubree is the newest member of our Cornerstone Dental Care front desk staff. She and her husband, Darren, are anxiously expecting their first baby, a girl due in February. When she's not working, Aubree enjoys camping, hiking and fishing, as well as crafting and cleaning. 

DENTAL HYGIENISTS

If you have visited our office for a cleaning recently, then you have been fortunate enough to have Heidi clean your teeth. Without fail, numerous patients leave impressed with how gentle and caring Heidi is. Her passion for dental hygiene shows through with how she treats, educates and cares for every patient. Heidi is married and has two Yorkshire puppies that she loves and adores. When Heidi is not working, she loves crafting and spending time in the mountains. 

Annette has been an amazing hygienist for Dr. Liddiard for 10 years. She has been in dentistry for 32 years and is a wonderful asset to our practice. She enjoys sports, hiking, boating, playing tennis, golf and traveling. She enjoys spending time with her family and relishes those weekends at her cabin with her husband, children and grandchildren. 

DENTAL ASSISTANTS

Tiffany has currently been working with Dr. Liddiard, since 2012. After graduating high school, Tiffany started at Cornerstone Dental Care and has taken on the opportunity of being a dental assistant, with the ability of being trained by Dr. Liddiard along with his head assistants. She really enjoys working  with patients and making them feel comfortable and educated in the office. Outside of her career, Tiffany adores animals, camping, movies, and being with family and friends. 

Ami is from Preston, Idaho. She moved to Utah 10 years ago. She has been dental assisting for a little over 9 years. Ami just recently got married and moved to South Jordan with her husband in June. They have two Shar Pei dogs, Gus and Max. She enjoys reading, camping, playing volleyball and when she has to, riding along with her husband while he golfs. 

Lacey S. has been in the dental field for over 8 years. She has been a dental assistant with Dr. Liddiard for 5 years. She enjoys getting to know the patients and doing the best she can to make them have the best experience possible. She enjoys spending time with her husband Jared and son Gavin. On the weekends she likes camping, running and spending time with family and friends. 

OFFICE PHOTOS

We hope this helps in getting to know our office and staff. We can not wait to get to know you! 

See You Soon

-A Healthy Body Starts With a Healthy Smile- 

"Whole Patient" Philosophy

Considering all of the latest technology advances, dentistry today is much more than just "drilling and filling". Treating the "whole patient" with complete dental care as opposed to individual tooth care allows the patient to take a proactive approach, always progressing to a higher level of dental care. We have a unique opportunity to personalize treatment and better educate our patients so that they too can make an educated decision. 

Your oral health is much more important than you may realize. Today, researchers have proven that systemic disease is directly associated with oral health. Studies have suggested a relationship between poor oral health and respiratory infections and compromised lung function. Heart Disease, Diabetes and Premature Birth are a few other health problems that can be associated with your oral health. 

Why create a blog? It is our goal to make sure our patients are practicing excellent oral hygiene and it is our duty to provide them with the information to do so. We will include subjects as simple as daily brushing and flossing, to the link between Diabetes and Periodontitis. Also, having a great smile is important for many different reasons! For some, it is about first impressions and confidence; for others, aesthetic or function. Now there are more options than ever, and you can learn about many of them here! 

Welcome to Cornerstone Dental Care!

-A Healthy Body Starts With a Healthy Smile-