Everyone knows that fluoride is good for your teeth, however few people realize that there are actually two different mechanisms by which Fluoride can be introduced to tooth structure. First is a systemic introduction through ingestion which occurs inside the jaw and before exposure to the oral cavity. Second is a topical application to teeth that have already erupted.
The actual mechanism of fluoride action is still a subject of debate. A dogma has existed for many decades, that fluoride has to be ingested and acts mainly pre-eruptively. However, recent studies concerning the systemic effect of fluoride supplementation concluded that the caries-preventive effect of fluoride is almost exclusively posteruptive. Moreover, epidemiologists have cast doubt on the validity of the 'old' studies dealing with fluoride use. The concept of the posteruptive fluoride effect is supported by in vitro and in situ investigations demonstrating that the mode of action of fluoride can be attributed mainly to its influence on de- and remineralization of dental hard tissues. Therefore, topical fluoride application in the form of fluoridated dentifrices(tooth paste or mouthwash) should be encouraged.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Monday, November 9, 2009
Bruxism/TMD
Bruxism put simply is the conscious or subconscious grinding and/or clenching of teeth. Most people have heard of the abbreviation; TMJ, this stands for Temporomandibular joint which are the jaw joints directly in front of the ears. TMD is any dysfunction that is associated with the TMJ.
There are various severities of TMD, ranging from slight pressure or discomfort to very severe pain and dysfunction. The etiology or cause of TMD is usually some form of occlusal discrepency or unbalanced bite. When the teeth don't line up and come together evenly, our bodies natural and often subconscious rection is to clench or grind in certain spots. This in turn will lead to problems with the jaw joints or some form of TMD. Bruxism is often cyclical( comes and goes) and progressive( tends to worsen with time). The good news is that for most people there is an easy fix in the form of an occlusal appliance or custom fitted hard night guard.
There are various severities of TMD, ranging from slight pressure or discomfort to very severe pain and dysfunction. The etiology or cause of TMD is usually some form of occlusal discrepency or unbalanced bite. When the teeth don't line up and come together evenly, our bodies natural and often subconscious rection is to clench or grind in certain spots. This in turn will lead to problems with the jaw joints or some form of TMD. Bruxism is often cyclical( comes and goes) and progressive( tends to worsen with time). The good news is that for most people there is an easy fix in the form of an occlusal appliance or custom fitted hard night guard.
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