Show Us Your Pearly Whites!

New Info on Osteoporosis

2010-02-22T08:10:00.002-05:00

Hey friends / patients,
The last couple of years, there's been some discussion of risk of osteonecrosis (the patient's bone breaking down and not healing well) if the patient is on Fosamax-type drugs and they have dental surgery, and extraction or maybe implants placed.

When talking with dental friends, it was kind of odd to us, because very few of us had even seen one case of osteonecrosis. Yet, there was all of this worry that it could happen.

Here's a new study that shows a VERY LOW chance of problems with healing in patients taking Fosamax-type drugs. The new report shows a prevalence of Osteonecrosis of the Jaw in Patients Using Fosamax®-type Drugs is 0.1%.

According to a large scale study carried out in California, osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) occurred in 1 out of 952 survey respondents taking oral bisphosphonates for prevention of osteoporosis. One out of 952 represents a prevalence rate of 0.1%. This data provides new information to be added to previous reports describing the prevalence of this condition in users of Fosamax-type drugs.

What's this mean? Women who are taking Fosamax-type drugs don't appear to have risk of poor healing if they have a tooth extraction, a dental implant or dental surgery.

Best,
Dr. Ron Receveur

Mother's Gum Disease Linked to Baby's Death!

2010-02-06T09:42:00.005-05:00

Dear Friends:
We've known for a long time that the health of your mouth was linked to Heart Disease. This new revelation CHANGES EVERYTHING! This article is a MUST READ!

First Oral Bacteria Found Linking a Mother and Her Stillborn Baby

ScienceDaily (Jan. 22, 2010) — Yiping Han, a researcher from Department of Periodontics at Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine, reports the first documented link between a mother with pregnancy-associated gum disease to the death of her fetus. The findings are discussed in the February issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology.

An Internet search in 2008 led a friend of a mother, who had just delivered a stillborn baby, to Han's research lab -- one of the few in the world working on understanding the role variations of the oral bacteria, Fusobacterium nucleatum, have on pre-term labor and stillbirths. The mother delivered her full-term baby at Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, Calif., at 39 weeks and five days.
During the 35-year-old mother's pregnancy (her first), she told Han she experienced excessive gum bleeding, a symptom of pregnancy-associated gingivitis. Approximately 75 percent of pregnant women experience gum bleeding due to the hormonal changes during pregnancy.

"There is an old wives' tale that you lose a tooth for each baby, and this is due to the underlying changes during pregnancy," said Han, "but if there is another underlying condition in the background, then you may lose more than a tooth but a baby."

Bleeding associated with the gingivitis allowed the bacteria, normally contained to the mouth because of the body's defense system, to enter the blood and work its way to the placenta. Even though the amniotic fluid was not available for testing, Han suspects from work with animal models that the bacteria entered the immune-free amniotic fluid and eventually ingested by the baby. Han says normally a mother's immune system takes care of the bacteria in the blood before it reaches the
placenta. But in this case, the mother also experienced an upper respiratory infection like a cold and low-grade fever just a few days before the stillbirth.
"The timing is important here because it fits the time frame of hematogenous (through the blood)spreading we observed in animals," Han said.

Postmortem microbial studies of the baby found the presence of F. nucleatum in the lungs and stomach. The baby had died from a septic infection and inflammation caused by bacteria. After questioning the mother about her health during the pregnancy, Han arranged for her to visit a periodontist, who collected plaque samples from her teeth.

Using DNA cloning technologies, Han found a match in the bacterium in the mother's mouth with the bacterium in the baby's infected lungs and stomach. Han also ruled out by testing bacteria from the vaginal and rectal areas, which did not show the presence of F. nucleatum.

"The testing strongly suggested the bacteria were delivered through the blood," Han said. With preventative periodontal treatment and oral health care, the mother has since given birth to a healthy baby. Han, who has spent the past decade taking her oral bacteria research from the lab to the bedside, says this points again to the growing importance of good oral health care. In addition to this direct link from the mother to her baby, oral bacteria have been associated with heart disease, diabetes and arthritis.

The researcher suggests women, who are considering a pregnancy, seek dental care to take care of any oral health problems before getting pregnant. If pregnant, she encourages expectant moms to practice good oral health and alert the doctor to any gum bleeding.

Collaborating with Han on the case study were Yann Fardini, Casey Chen, Karla G. Iacampo, Victoria A. Peraino, Jaime Shamonki and Raymond W. Redline. The study had support from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.

Denture Adhesive Lawsuit....Wow!

2009-10-10T10:35:00.000-04:00

Overuse of denture cream with zinc sparks lawsuits
September 18, 2009 1:06 PM ET
By CURT ANDERSON

MIAMI (AP) - When he began getting weak, 61-year-old Ronald Beaver figured he might just be feeling his age. Eventually his problem was traced to a serious blood disorder caused by low levels of copper.

"I didn't know what to think," Beaver said of his illness three years ago. "I had no idea. I was just scared to death."

It wasn't until several weeks later — after the Florida moving company employee started getting daily doses of copper — that Beaver's doctor mentioned that getting too much zinc can trigger loss of copper. The only source of that much zinc they surmised was the tubes of PoliGrip denture cream he had been grossly overusing for a decade.

"The dentures I had then didn't fit that good. They would get loose and I would reapply," he said.

Now Beaver, who said he never fully recovered, and hundreds of other people claiming similar problems are suing consumer products giants Procter & Gamble Co., which makes Fixodent, and GlaxoSmithKline, maker of PoliGrip. At least 25 lawsuits from 11 states have been consolidated for pretrial hearings before a federal judge in Miami, who will decide if they go to trial or not. Another hearing is planned for next month.

The companies say denture cream containing zinc is safe when used as directed. And the Food and Drug Administration, which regulates denture adhesives, has never issued any warnings about the products. Indeed, the amount of zinc found in the recommended application of denture cream is similar to the amount found in a 6-ounce hamburger, and the overwhelming majority of users have no problems. The zinc improves adhesive power.

The lawsuits claim the products are defective, that the companies failed to adequately warn people about the potential dangers and that no corrective steps were taken. The product liability lawsuits are seeking medical expenses and unspecified damages.

While acknowledging the problems are rare, Beaver's attorney, Scott Weinstein, says he expects many more lawsuits to be filed.

The legal action followed a 2008 report in the medical journal Neurology about a possible link between denture cream zinc and nerve damage. Doctors at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas described four patients who all used excessive amounts of denture cream and had various nerve-related disorders.

The researchers said their report did not prove denture cream caused the problems, but concluded the issue warranted further study. The human body needs both zinc and copper in the proper amounts, and zinc is commonly found in many foods, vitamin supplements and even cold lozenges. Too much zinc, though, can purge the body of copper.

A copper deficiency can cause nerve damage, resulting in symptoms such as weakness and numbness in arms and legs; difficulty walking and loss of balance; and even cognitive or memory impairment, according to the National Institutes of Health.

Dr. Jane Flinn, director of the undergraduate Neuroscience Program at George Mason University in Fairfax, Va., noted that all four patients in the report used excessive amounts of denture cream.

"The take-home message is that zinc deficiency is an important issue, but an excess of zinc is also a problem," said Flinn, who was not involved in the Texas report.

In the four Texas cases — as well as that of Beaver and other lawsuit plaintiffs — patients were using far more than the recommended amount of denture cream, perhaps two or three tubes per week. A tube is supposed to last three to 10 weeks, with directions calling for only small dabs of the adhesive to keep dentures in place.

Cincinnati-based Procter & Gamble and Britain's GlaxoSmithKline said in statements to The Associated Press that their denture creams are safe when used properly. On their Internet sites, both have sections devoted to the issue of zinc in their denture creams. This summer, GlaxoSmithKline began including leaflets with PoliGrip about the reports of possible problems from overuse and is adding similar wording to new packages.

"When the product is used as directed, the amount of zinc that might be swallowed is small and is not harmful," said GlaxoSmithKline spokeswoman Malesia Dunn. "Consumers should not use denture adhesive to compensate for a poorly fitting denture."

The Consumer Healthcare Products Association, a nonprofit organization that represents makers of over-the-counter medicines, said the denture creams containing zinc were first approved by the FDA 15 years ago. The leading brands still contain zinc, although there are alternatives available without it.

"Adverse events are very rare," said association spokeswoman Elizabeth Funderburk.

Likewise, the American Dental Association said the link between denture cream use and neurological problems remains unproven, The group urges people with denture difficulties not to overuse the adhesives and see their dentist if they have loose-fitting dentures.

DNA testing for Periodontal Disease: Am I Going to Lose My Teeth Just Like My Mother?

2009-03-08T19:11:00.002-04:00

My Mother lost her teeth at an early age.
Am I going to lose my teeth and need dentures too?

Years ago this may have been the case, but I’ve seen good hygiene and routine dental care do remarkable things in helping people keep their natural teeth over the years I’ve been practicing dentistry. There are some people, however, that no matter how hard they work at their home care, they can’t get quite as healthy as they would like.

There is new technology that allows us to test our patients for genetic predisposition for Periodontal Disease. The risk for periodontal disease increases 3 to 7-fold and for tooth loss 3-fold in individuals who test positive to these new tests. Early detection of patients at increased risk facilitates prevention and early intervention efforts. For those patients already affected with periodontal disease, the PST™ Genetic Test assists clinicians in creating a personalized treatment plan.

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), an estimated 75% of all Americans over the age of 35 have some form of periodontal disease. It’s a known fact that periodontal disease is the primary cause of tooth loss in adults. Periodontal Disease, or gum disease, is a common condition that varies in severity from person to person and usually starts when people are in their 30's or 40's. Symptoms may include:
@red, swollen, tender gums; receding gums @bleeding while brushing and/or flossing
@loose or separating teeth @persistent bad breath
@dentures that no longer fit @pus between the teeth and gums

Are You At Risk? When might we suggest DNA testing for you?
• When you have early signs of periodontal disease, despite a fairly good effort
with your home care.
• You're considering cosmetic or advanced restorative dentistry, such as veneers or
implants and we want to know that we don’t have any factors “working against us”
as we perform your treatment.
• A new patient or someone who hasn’t seen us in a while and needs a lot of
dentistry to get healthy again, and they tell us of a family history of
periodontal disease, diabetes, heart disease or stroke.
• Clinical signs of infection (red, swollen, or bleeding gums with bone loss around
teeth and periodontal pockets) are around important teeth that we critically need
to save to keep our patient from having to get a denture.
• Have a family history of periodontal disease? Need extensive periodontal care?
Have loose teeth? Lost teeth?
• Confirmation of your oral health is needed prior to major medical surgery.
• You have other medical / systemic conditions that make you more susceptible to
periodontal infections.
• A screening tool to assess your periodontal health and genetic risk to oral
infections.
• Do you have chronic bad breath even though you’ve done everything we’ve shown you
to manage the problem?

WHAT ARE THE TESTS?

MyPerioPathsm Test: Identifies and measures certain bacteria that can cause gingivitis and periodontitis
MyPerioIDsmPST® Test: Determines if you are likely to be more susceptible to gum tissue infections

These revolutionary tests deliver detailed information that will enable us to better determine the appropriate treatment regimen for your specific needs. The testing procedures are quick, non-invasive, simple and easy to perform.

This DNA Testing Sounds Expensive. How much does this cost?

Each individual test costs about $150. Some patients only need one of the tests. Some need both. If both tests are done, the total cost is around $300, plus the cost of any antiobiotics (from the pharmacy) possibly needed for treatment.

Dentistry continues to make some amazing strides in that it’s providing people the opportunity at having enhanced overall health. As I’ve said frequently lately, I’ve been in dentistry for over 25 years, and there’s not been a more exciting time than right now for all the things that dentistry can offer my patients. Whether it’s sedation for the fearful patient, implants for those that have missing teeth or dentures and can’t chew their food, or DNA testing for those who REALLY want to keep their teeth, I’m very thankful for the profession I’m in being so interesting and fun the last few years.

Be Thankful for What You Have,
Dr. Ron Receveur

Do You Have Brick Walls in Your Life?

2008-12-31T02:24:00.005-05:00

Happy New Year!

As 2008 ends and the new year, 2009, begins, my thoughts often turn to how my life has changed in the past year and what changes will occur in the New Year. That's the one thing that has surprised me the most as my life has gone by...how much everything in life continues to change!

I'd like to think I have a little control over the changes that will occur in my life the next year. There will be opportunities that lie ahead to make resolutions, turn over a new leaf, gain a fresh start, etc. We each decide the path we will walk in this coming year. Each of us must decide what our priorities will be and what direction we will take.

It's easy in uncertain economic times to allow your attitude and thought process to be affected every day. I read a book recently that made me think about my limitations and what was affecting my attitude. Here's a great quote that embodies this thought of mine:

"I found every single successful person I've ever spoken to had a turning point. The turning point was when they made a clear, specific unequivocal decision that they were not going to live like this anymore; they were going to achieve success. Some people make that decision at 15 and some people make it at 50, and most people never make it all."
-- Brian Tracy

So, my thought for you as we head into a New Year is very simple. Is there something you've always wanted to do? No, REALLY wanted to do! Only you can answer this for yourself.

Whether it is spending more quality time with family, losing weight, going back to school, whatever it is...Improving yourself in some manner. To start the new year off in a positive way --- set goals, analyze your efforts, and evaluate your true commitment. If there's something you REALLY want to do with your life, there's always going to be a great excuse, something standing in the way. I call those obstacles "Brick Walls".

If you really want to be on the other side of that brick wall, you can climb over it. You can do an "end-around" and run around it. You can tunnel underneath it. Often times when I interact with someone who's not very excited about doing something, they'll have 15 reasons why they can't accomplish the task. People that know me well, know what I mean when I say, "That's a brick wall!" In other words, they just don't want it bad enough. The task or job is just too scary, too daunting or too much effort.

Do you have "Brick Walls" in your life keeping you from being where you want to be?
Now's the time to decide if you are serious about doing something about the things in your life that you don't like. Only you can decide.

Here's to you and your family having a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year in 2009?

Sincerely, Dr, Ron Receveur

My "ALL-TIME" Favorite X-mas Appetizer

2008-12-16T19:27:00.004-05:00

I've had so many patients ask me about this recipe because I talk about fixing it at Christmas for my family (every year for the last 12 years). This is my favorite appetizer of all time...seriously. I can't take credit for it. It came from Emeril's cooking show on TV. Here it is: (Yes, I'm fixing it again this year. My kids would kill me if I didn't)

Sauteed Rock Shrimp in Creole Cream Sauce in a Puff Pastry Vol-au-Vent

Ingredients

* 1 sheet frozen puff pastry
* 1 egg, lightly beaten
* 1 pound frozen rock shrimp (70 to 90 count)
* 1 tablespoon Emeril's Creole Seasoning, recipe follows
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 2/3 cup chopped green onions
* 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1 teaspoon Crystal Hot Sauce (to your liking)
* 2 cups heavy cream
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
* Salt and pepper

Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment or waxed paper. Thaw the pastry at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before gently unfolding. With a sharp knife, divide the pastry in half. Cut each pastry half into 4 equal triangles. With the tip of a sharp knife, make a 1/4-inch score on all edges of the triangles, being careful not to cut all the way through. Put them on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops lightly with the beaten egg. Bake until golden brown, 8 to 10 minutes. Set aside to cool while preparing the shrimp. Season rock shrimp with Creole seasoning. In a large skillet over high heat, saute rock shrimp in olive oil for 2 to 3 minutes, until most of the liquid released by the shrimp has evaporated. Add green onions, Worcestershire and hot pepper sauce and cook for 1 minute. Add the cream, bring to a boil and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook until reduced by half and sauce covers the back of a spoon, about 4 to 6 minutes. Add butter and whisk thoroughly to combine, about 1 minute. Season with salt and pepper.

With the tip of a knife, carefully remove the top of each pastry. Divide shrimp and sauce between pastries, cover with reserved tops and serve.

Emeril's ESSENCE Creole Seasoning (I make this myself, but I've seen it for sale at Kroger's...already pre-made):

* 2 1/2 tablespoons paprika
* 2 tablespoons salt
* 2 tablespoons garlic powder
* 1 tablespoon black pepper
* 1 tablespoon onion powder
* 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
* 1 tablespoon dried oregano
* 1 tablespoon dried thyme

Combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Emeril's site says this serves 8, but at our house, 4 of us devour all of this.
Actually, I make a double batch every year and listen to my wife complain that we don't want to eat her dinner. ;-)

Hope you enjoy this as much as I do...
Dr. Ron

Dance your dance!

2008-12-13T06:39:00.006-05:00

Just one of my favorite videos. This frivolous little video reminds me of my father this time of year. He used to tell me "Just play the cards you are dealt". Watching the cute Peanuts characters dance around all happy reminds me of my dad teaching me the lesson of being happy no matter where your life is at the moment. Enjoy your holidays...Dr. Ron

Exercise Can Reverse Mental Decline

2008-12-10T06:00:00.000-05:00

Interesting studies going on these days with physical exercise and it's relationship with keeping our brains "sharp" in our later years!

One study says aerobic workouts may prevent cognitive decline.

Another study shows older adults who exercise regularly have increased blood flow and more small blood vessels in the brain.

A mouse study from Taiwan researchers indicates that daily exercise keeps the brain young. This study was conducted by Yu-Min Kuo, PhD at the Taiwan National Cheng Kung University Medical College.

Dr. Kuo's team found that younger brains create new brain cells and integrate them into existing brain networks. As mice get older, this process really slows. This slowing of brain cell creation is connected to impaired memory and learning.

Dr. Kuo wanted to try and find out if this age-related mental decline could be reversed with exercise? So he trained mice to run on exercise wheels, at 70% of their aerobic capacity, every day for five weeks. Another group of "control" mice were not trained to exercise, although they did have exercise wheels.

What the study found out was that the mice that worked out every day grew 2.5 times more new brain cells than the mice that didn't. With the exercising mice, many more of these new brain cells survived, grew, and integrated into existing brain networks.

Dr. Kuo and his colleagues reported that "Chronic treadmill running alters the chemistries of middle-aged brains toward an environment resembling younger brains."

Another study by Drs. Arthur F. Kramer and Kirk I. Erickson says that regular aerobic exercise can not only stave off the decline in brain function that often comes with age, it can also help turn back the clock on brain aging.

These doctors found that in people with or without signs of dementia or Alzheimer's disease, regular moderate physical activity (enough to make you breathless), has shown increases in the speed and sharpness of thought...and also the actual volume of brain tissue.

In a 6-month study Dr. Kramer performed, adults ages 60-75 who walked for 45 minutes a day three days a week improved their mental fitness, when compared with those who did only non-aerobic type exercises.

These results suggest that regular aerobic exercise can "reverse age-related cognitive decline," Kramer and Erickson write, and that the aging brain retains its capacity to grow and develop.

Guess I'd better go for that brisk walk today...or maybe I'll do 40 minutes on my treadmill while watching my ballgame! Keep Learning and Growing...Dr. Ron Receveur

Sick of Not Being Able to Enjoy Almond Brittle at X-mas?

2008-12-07T05:54:00.005-05:00

Hello Again! Only Two and a half weeks til X-mas...Wow!

I was in Columbus Ohio listening to Dr. Duke Heller speak this weekend about patients who couldn't chew their food because of poorly fitting dentures. He mentioned where a group of patients who had ulcers were studied and found that 83% of the patients who had ulcers in their stomach were denture wearers.

I had read and understood that the digestive process of breaking down your food so your body can absorb the nutrients begins in your mouth. The saliva and salivary amylase (enzyme) starts the process of digesting the carbohydrates, fats and proteins in your mouth. When your food is not properly chewed and the enzymes and acids in your mouth don't get the opportunity to begin breaking down the food, then the stomach has to work overtime.

Because the food didn't get properly chewed and broken down in your mouth, the stomach must produce a higher level of acid to break down the food in your stomach. That additional acid can cause heartburn, ulcers, an irritable colon or diarrhea.

The loss of chewing power among those patients with dentures is also significant. People with all of their natural teeth can chew their food with 540 pounds per square inch (PSI). People with full dentures can only "chomp down" with 50 PSI!

This loss of chewing efficiency prevents people from eating sufficient amounts of fruits, vegetables and proteins, such as meats and nuts.

The harmful effects on the stomach lining affects the absorption of vitamins and minerals in the stomach and intestines.

Chronic nutritional deficiencies increase health risks such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. A 2001 Japanese study found that people who still had their natural teeth lived an average of 6 years longer than those who were denture wearers.

OK, OK...so we understand what people lose when they lose their teeth. The neatest part of the weekend was when Dr. Rob Heller showed some very interesting ways he stabilized partial dentures and full dentures for his patients. He showed one of his patients who only had four of their small incisors in the front remaining on their lower jaw. This patient couldn't tolerate her removable partial because it moved around so much and made her mouth sore. Rob placed two small implants just behind these four teeth, put ball attachments on them and made her partial snap onto these two little balls.

You should have heard what the patient had to say about this new arrangement! She could chew again. She was able to use her old partial...in other words, she didn't have to pay for a new one! If you have trouble chewing your food because of missing teeth or poorly fitting dentures, you should know that there are options today that were just not available prior to now.

One of my favorite patients has this Almond brittle recipe that is "to die for". She always brings me some at Christmas. Don't miss out on those little things in life... now that things can be so easily fixed!

No-Lecture Dentistry

2008-12-02T23:14:00.002-05:00

Hello Again!
I guess you're never too old to learn new tricks, lol.

I've been in practice 27 years and have worked very hard to help people get over their fear of dentistry. I thought I was pretty good at finding ways to make our patients comfortable with having their dentistry done.

A while back I was doing what a nerdy dentist would do I guess...reading about fearful dental patients and what stood in the way of them getting the dentistry that they wanted and needed. This so-called management expert said there was a new #1 reason why people avoided the dentist. After I thought about what he said, it all made sense.

Want to guess what it is? You'll never get it...until I tell you. Then, if you're like me, you'll say "Oh yeah, that makes sense!".

It's not fear of pain, shots or the drill...for the top reasons for dental chair avoidance; the number one fear that intelligent, conscientious people put off taking care of their teeth. Here it is...

#1 Reason for Avoiding the Dentist is the fear of getting a lecture.

I guess we've just never "talked down" to people or scolded them. No sermons, lectures or guilt trips in any way to our patients, whether adult or child.

We understand there are many valid reasons for not making it to the dentist in the timeliest manner...

Maybe a child is sick, or playing in a tournament. Perhaps your work schedule has been crazy. Financial issues are another reason for needing to put off an appointment (ask about our payment plans if you are strapped for cash and without insurance). And of course there's dental phobia.

But above all reasons, the most reported in studies is the guilt and fear of being lectured.

We treat patients with the same respect we'd like to be treated with...

Consider our office a "NO GUILT, LECTURE-FREE" zone.

Whatever the reason for not coming in sooner, we will be happy to see you.

If anxiety, fear or a low threshold for pain have kept you away, we can talk about some remedies for these issues as well.

To speak with one of my caring and competent staff about your needs or to see if conscious sedation is for you, call:

812-945-SMILE (7645)

Committed to compassionate and comfortable dental care,

Ron Receveur, DDS

P.S. We truly welcome those afraid of dental work and use a variety of methods including sedation dentistry. See what many satisfied patients have to say about their experiences in our office. Go to http://www.indianasmiles.com/

Scrumptious Yet Calorie-Conscious Holiday Meals

2008-11-29T15:05:00.003-05:00

Delicious Yet Calorie-Conscious Holiday Meals

"Thanksgiving isn't usually a calorie-conscious holiday, but by swapping out a few ingredients with healthier alternatives, you can really help reduce calorie and fat intake while keeping great flavor," Dr. J. James Rohack, AMA president-elect, said in a news release.

As part of its "Healthier Life Steps" campaign, the AMA offers the following healthful holiday cooking tips:

Use fat-free and low-sodium broths in soups and stews.
Replace the sour cream in dips with low-fat or nonfat sour cream or yogurt.
Add a green vegetable to every meal, such as broccoli in your omelet, spinach on your sandwich, and green beans on your dinner plate. It's a good way to add extra vitamins to your diet.

The AMA also offers some advice on how to avoid putting on extra pounds when you attend holiday get-togethers:

Don't hang around the appetizers. Doing so makes it too easy to mindlessly eat while chatting with friends.
Limit your desserts. Take just a taste instead of a full serving.
Drink alcohol in moderation. Alcoholic beverages are full of sugar and empty calories, and drinking may lower your inhibitions and lead you to eat foods you otherwise wouldn't consume.
Fill your plate with fruits and vegetables, instead of fried foods and creamy dips.
Get out for walks.

"Thanksgiving is the gateway to the holiday season, when many people ingest lots of calories in food and beverages and don't get enough physical activity to burn those extra calories," Rohack said. "By making a plan early to maintain healthy lifestyle throughout the season, you can enjoy yourself without having to pay for it in the new year."

Olive Oil Depresses Hunger?

2008-11-16T10:19:00.003-05:00

I've always loved Olive Oil. Olive oil with fresh parmesan on my tomatoes. Olive Oil on my salad with a little balsamic vinegar. Even Olive Oil over my parmesan chicken. Olive Oil on everything!

Now, I've read several articles that say that Oleic Acid in your olive oil is converted into a fat messenger called OEA (Oleoylethanolamide). OEA activates certain nerves in your intestines that sends a message up to the brain and tells the body that it's full.

Researchers have noticed this response and have been testing OEA with mice. The researchers injected the fat directly into the intestines of mice, then measured their appetite. They found that the mice ate less. The findings are published in the October issue of Cell Metabolism.

Olive Oil is a heart-healthy fat, but it does contain calories. So don't go crazy. If you want to learn more about Olive Oil, go to the American Dietetic Association.

Are You Scared to Death of the Dentist?

2008-06-27T12:57:00.000-04:00

Dental Fear and Anxiety Solutions

Dental fear is very common and, if it’s moderate to severe, we call it dental phobia. The amazing thing is that avoiding the dentist because of fear has far more serious consequences than whatever actually happens in the dentist’s chair.

Some Common Causes of Dental Fear:
1) Fear of pain
2) Fear of the doctor or staff making you feel guilty because you put off the care you needed.
3) Fear of the cost

This article deals primarily with the first one on the list, fear of pain.

A generation ago if something was really difficult it was described as
“like pulling teeth.”

Nowadays, if something is really unpleasant the saying is
“I’d rather have a root canal!”

If a Martian came to earth and heard these sayings, he would probably fear the dentist before he ever went to see one.

Many of us fear the dentist because of experiences which took place in our childhood. The techniques that were available to dentists a generation ago were archaic compared to today.
The attitude of dentists from years ago was not terribly sympathetic. As a result, a patient may recall a lot of pain in his childhood while having their dental care and not a lot of empathy. The dentist often told the patient that he would just have to manage or, worse, that it “isn’t that bad.” Things like “I’m almost finished, just hang on” were commonly heard years ago.
Many children had a difficult experience in the dental chair. This often affected them for the rest of their lives.

Things have changed!

If you have bad memories about injections, having dentistry done, noises and all kinds of “fun stuff”, there are solutions now that make dentistry very comfortable. The injections can be made nearly painless, the shrill sound of the dentist’s drill can be blocked, and there are many answers to the smells, sounds and anxieties many patients have. For those who are especially sensitive or fearful, one answer might be sedation dentistry.

Who would be an ideal candidate for sedation dentistry?

Most people are candidates for sedation dentistry, but those people who appreciate it most are the ones who are the most afraid of going to the dentist. The list of people who can benefit is actually quite long. It’s for people who:
· Have trouble getting numb
· Have had a traumatic dental experience
· Have sensitive teeth
· Want all of their dentistry done in usually one or two visits
· Hate needles and shots
· Hate noises, smells, and tastes associated with dental care.
· Are afraid and embarrassed about their teeth.
· Have a bad gag reflex
· Toothaches or Headaches
· Hate drills or the smell of the dental office
Just to name a few.

Because they have avoided the dentist for so many years, people develop problems with their teeth, gums, bones, bite and jaw.

They go to incredible lengths to compensate for the appearance that develops.
Some people learn to talk without showing their teeth.
Some never smile.
Some never eat in public.

Why? For some it’s all because of dental fear developed in childhood.
The sad thing is that it is fear of pain that is no longer felt in a dentist’s chair.
What is even sadder is that postponing dental care leads to even bigger problems and is bound to cause real pain.

The right thing to do is:

"Find a Dentist That Meets Your Needs and You are Comfortable With"

so you no longer have to experience “Old Time Dentistry”.

Porcelain Veneers

2008-06-27T12:33:00.000-04:00

Are Porcelain Veneers Instant Orthodontics?

Porcelain veneers have been available in dentistry for over 25 years. Lately, the “brand names” Lumineers and Empress veneers have become popular either through advertising or public awareness. However, the concept and the process is not new.

Porcelain Veneers are thin, carefully fabricated pieces of porcelain shaped to fit over the front of the tooth. They are sometimes called porcelain laminates or porcelain laminate veneers.

Veneers can be used to cover, reshape or cosmetically enhance:
1. gaps or spaces
2. stains or discoloration
3. chips, cracks, pits and even fractures
4. crooked or otherwise poorly positioned teeth

Veneers can also be used as a substitute for orthodontic braces. Adults who prefer to avoid the time and appearance of braces now have an option that can change the size and shape of their teeth. Some dentists will call veneers “instant orthodontics” because you can have “instant” correction of crooked or crowded front teeth.

They can alter the shape of your face and the appearance of your smile by adjusting the size of your teeth. Best of all is the small amount of time involved.

Benefits of veneers
Veneers will not stain (they have a glazed surface just like your china).
They are durable and last many years.
They are strong enough to chew food like natural teeth.
They look just like natural teeth.
They are an immediate solution, unlike orthodontic work (instant orthodontics).
Years ago, when a patient wanted cosmetic correction of crowded teeth or poorly shaped teeth, he / she often would choose to have crowns placed to recontour them. However, this involved “grinding the teeth down”, in other words, removing a lot of the solid good tooth structure just for cosmetic reasons. Porcelain Veneers can be placed with either very little or no removal of enamel. So the procedure is very conservative.

The treatment is virtually painless. It’s really no more involved than having a few fillings or a crown. A couple of hours in a dental chair and you can laugh freely without even thinking about your teeth.

An overwhelming majority of 85% considers a person's smile to be important when meeting someone for the first time.

You CAN Have the Smile you’ve always dreamed of…painlessly and quickly!

How can you get such wonderful results? Simple: There are so many new advanced methods in dentistry that can ‘fix’ any dental problem. What these new methods do is allow us to correct embarrassing, twisted, crooked, or gapped teeth usually in 1-2 visits.

You can have a more attractive, confident, glowing smile without having to go through any long, uncomfortable, or frustrating procedures. Imagine seeing more positive cosmetic enhancing results in the same amount of time it takes to do your hair and make up. Even the “ugliest, most distorted, discolored teeth” have been miraculously transformed in as little as two visits.

You Can't Hide Ugly, Chipped, Stained or Crooked Teeth...

But you CAN Fix Them Quickly AND Comfortably...

If you have always wished you could have brighter teeth, differently shaped or positioned teeth or a different smile and facial appearance, veneers are a very popular option to discuss with your dentist.

Dentures & Dental Implants: Help You Look Younger & Chew Better

2008-06-27T11:39:00.000-04:00

"Dentures & Dental Implants That Will...

Help You Look Younger and Chew Better"

When you go out to a restaurant, do you order the food you truly want?
· Or do you order bland, soft-textured food…just to avoid the frustration and
embarrassment of your dentures in front of family and friends?
· Be honest – would you like to sink your teeth into a mouth watering
16 oz. Porterhouse steak?
· Would you like to be able to eat corn on the cob again?
· Or enjoy a juicy Granny Smith Apple?

Do You Worry About:
· Dentures coming loose as you laugh, cough or sneeze?
· A thick layer of nasty tasting denture adhesives interfering with your enjoyment of
food?
· Wrinkles from loss of bone and tissue to support the delicate muscles of your lips, cheeks,
the corners of your mouth and your face?
· Sores from loose fitting dentures rubbing your gums?
· MISSING teeth, FAILING teeth, or Ill-Fitting dentures that just don’t work?
· Being tired of social embarrassment or looking older than you are?
· Are you sick and tired of ill-fitting dentures, missing, or worn out teeth?

There is a solution; and this solution can literally give you:
Teeth that are 90% of the Strength of Your Original Teeth.

“What are Dental Implants… and How Do They Work?
Today implants are a common procedure. Implants are used to replace one or more missing teeth, to support non-removable permanent bridges for multiple teeth, or to better support a full or partial denture with clasps or retention bars. Because they also help maintain bone, they can help prevent additional tooth loss and a sunken facial appearance.

Three separate pieces are involved: the implant (which fuses to your bone), an abutment that screws on the implant, and a crown that is cemented or screwed on the abutment.
Once the implant, made from titanium, is surgically placed in the bone, it takes about four months for it to become integrated into the jaw. A life-like ceramic porcelain tooth restoration is then matched to the original tooth color and attached to the implant abutment. These feel more natural than conventional replacement bridges or dentures.

Am I A Candidate for Dental Implants?

To be a candidate for implants, you must be reasonably healthy and have enough bone to support the implants. If you do not have adequate bone, then there are other options, which can be discussed at a consultation.

Types of Dental Implants
Implants usually involve one surgery with the placement of a temporary crown or prosthesis that stays in place for about four months until the permanent crown or prosthesis is permanently cemented. Although it may take up to four months for the bone to grow around the implant and firmly hold it in place, “immediate load” implants have recently become popular.

Immediate load implants are just that. If you have excellent bone quality, there is sometimes enough support for the implant to bear the weight of light chewing and a tooth replacement right away. Frequently, patients who have broken a tooth off to the point where the tooth has a poor prognosis, can have an implant placed the same day that the tooth is extracted. They walk in the front door of the implant dentist’s office with their own tooth, and walk out with a temporary crown cemented on top of an implant. In ONE APPOINTMENT!!!

They’re never without their front tooth!

You Will Look 10 Years Younger

Dental Implants assist you in looking and feeling younger, because they prevent bone loss. By preventing bone loss that would normally occur with the loss of teeth, your facial structures remain normal and intact. The chances of wrinkling and the look of old age before your time is less likely. Implants prevent the bone loss that would normally occur with the loss of teeth. In other words, everyday that you continue to wear dentures, or have missing teeth, you are experiencing bone loss, which makes you look much older than you have to. By using dental implants, your facial structures and jaw remains strong, healthy, and intact. This is especially important when all of the teeth are missing, because the lower one-third of your face begins to collapse if implants are not placed to preserve the bone.

Overall quality of life is enhanced with replacement teeth that look, feel and function more like natural teeth. You will look younger and more attractive which allows you to be even more confident and enjoy smiling, laughing, and talking with others.

You might now live longer, because you’ll get to eat better and prevent malnutrition or stomach problems! Fresh vegetables, corn, and fruits are back on the menu! You can now eat the foods you like. Also, since your chewing is improved, your digestion will be even better as well!
More Confidence in social situations. Patients love their new implants, because of their improved appearance, function, comfort and health. When you go out in public, you will never have to cover your mouth with your hand, or put off eating out of fear of a denture popping out or gagging you. Also, the improved appearance of your new smile will have people giving you compliments that you’ve never gotten before.

Allows you to relax and not have to worry about your dentures moving around, popping out, or gagging you. Eliminate Denture Adhesives FOREVER! Since implant supported teeth are securely attached to the implants, there is no need for messy dentures adhesives. You’ll never worry about your dentures flying out when you laugh, sneeze, cough, or when you eat. Implants are so securely attached that the fear of them falling out will be eliminated!

Your mouth will be restored as closely as possible to its natural state. By replacing the entire
tooth, as well as the tooth root, it is possible to replicate the function of natural teeth, with a
strong, stable foundation that allows comfortable biting and chewing. Also, nothing in the in the
mouth looks or feels false or artificial!

Increases the amount of enjoyment you get out of eating. You will be able to taste foods more fully. Wearing an upper denture can prevent someone from really tasting food, as the roof of the mouth is covered. With implant supported replacement teeth, it is not necessary to cover the roof of the mouth, so you can truly enjoy the taste of foods. Improves overall oral health and decreases the risk of oral cancer and heart disease. It is much easier to care for implants than dentures. Your chances of bacteria build up, and gum disease decreases when you have implants.

Your other teeth will not be affected because of missing teeth. Since replacing missing teeth
with implant supported crowns and bridges does not involve the adjacent natural teeth, they are not compromised or damaged.

The 3 Most Common Questions From Patients Considering Dental Implants:

Q: How Painful Is Getting Dental Implants?
A: Most patients report that they feel very little if any pain after the procedure. In fact, many patients do not have to use any pain pills. Your decision to use implants will help you to avoid much pain and discomfort in the long term.
Besides, given the overall health care benefits, you should not deny yourself proper treatment out of fear of pain. As with any medical or dental procedure, your attending doctor, the implant dentist, is equipped to provide you with appropriate treatment, including any pain medicines you need.
There are many options to insure scared patients can have VERY COMFORTABLE care.. If fear is keeping you from getting the dentistry you want or need, “you truly don’t have to be afraid anymore”. There are many alternatives to Guarantee your comfort, including oral conscious sedation. With oral conscious sedation, you can often have your dentistry done in one visit, with little or no memory of ever having been in our office. So, if you’re especially fearful, phobic, or pain sensitive you have the option of doing the procedures with sedation dentistry, giving you stronger, more comfortable teeth, without any pain or discomfort!

Q: What is the Cost of Implant Treatment?
A: Many people ask, “How much are implants going to cost?” The only real way to determine actual cost is by consulting with an implant dentist to find out if you have bone loss or if you’ll need one, two, or more implants.
So yes, you will need to look at implants as an investment, because it really is a significant decision. It is that: an investment. A cruise or other trip ends after 5-7days. Or you can purchase more “stuff” for the house, but is that really as important as being able to enjoy chewing your food, having a smile you’re proud of and an improved health because of your improved nutrition?

A healthy mouth or a dazzling smile pays dividends in many ways for your entire life. Anyway, Dental Implants are admittedly not the least expensive option. If your primary concern is lowest possible investment, than dental implants are not for you.

What to Do Now!
Dental Implants are the fastest way to replace up to 90% of your chewing force. It is the ideal way to get back what has been stolen from you… the magnificent youthful smile you deserve.

Now every denture complaint has a solution!
· You can have a denture that stays firmly in place!
· You can go out with friends and eat any food you want; no more worry about what’s on the
menu
· You don't have to get food under your denture
· You no longer have to "think" about your dentures

Have more confidence in your attractive smile and your ability to chew. No longer do you have to worry about being embarrassed with something that happens with your dentures. Look younger…don’t assume you have to accept the lines and wrinkles around your mouth, lips and cheeks…

"You Don't Have to "Settle" for Bad Dentures Anymore"

Eat Chocolate Without the Guilt!

2008-06-27T11:21:00.000-04:00

Eat Chocolate Without the Guilt!

If you’re like me you can’t resist a good piece of chocolate. Well, now you don’t have to! The makers of Xoçai™ (pronounced Shŏ-sái), have now found a way to make one of the world’s most craved desserts and actually make it good for us.

Chocolate is one of the most complex foods on earth, containing more than 300 compounds in its pure form. Recent studies have shown that chocolate, in its most pure form can offer us many important ingredients that can help boost our health, and believe it or not, help us maintain a healthier weight. By combining unprocessed cacao powder and the Açai (pronounced ah-sigh-ee) berry, researchers have found that this luscious treat contains rich antioxidants, amino acids and essential fatty acids that can help us fight disease.

Now, that doesn’t mean that you can eat just many old chocolate bars off of the shelf. Unfortunately, the types of chocolate we usually consume are milk chocolate, which is full of sugar, which isn’t any good for us at all.

What Xoçai™ has done is take unprocessed cacao, which contains no sugar at all, and sweetens it with natural agave found in a cactus like plant for a low glycemic index sweet that is both tasty and healthy for us. Plus, most diabetics can indulge in their favorite treat once again without worrying about a dangerous spike in their glucose levels.

Love chocolate? Good! It’s time to have a piece in honor of your good health.

Dedicated to Your Good Health,
Dr. Ron Receveur