What is periodontal probing?

A periodontal probe is an instrument used in dentistry to measure the pocket depth of the gums around your teeth. It's usually long, thin and blunted at the end. Their are indication lines that help measure in millameters.

What is the purpose, you ask?
The purpose is to ensure your gums are healthy. When the hygienist does your daily cleaning, once a year they will measure your gums. The lower the number the better. If we can diagnose that your gums need some healing, periodontal probing is the best way to do so. By measuring your gums on an annual basis we can diagnose the early stage of gum disease and to help maintain a healthy mouth.

Fun facts about Saliva ..

1. A person cannot taste food unless it is mixed with saliva. For example, if strong-tasting substance like salt is placed on a dry tongue, the taste buds will not be able to taste it. As soon as a drop of saliva is added and the salt is dissolved, however, a definite taste sensation results.

2. 1.7 liters of saliva is made in your mouth for one day.

3. In the saliva their are chemicals called enzymes.

4. To make saliva, we need salivary glands.

5. Human saliva is composed of 98% water, while the other 2% consists of other compounds such as electrolytes, mucus, antibacterial compounds, and various enzymes.

Are you aware of the latest technology that's being used in our office today?

Some of the latest technology in our office being used today are things such as: digital xrays which produce less radiation and can be viewed right away on the computer, no more cardboard like papers and no more waiting to be developed. In addition, the Itero (digital scan) used to take impressions without putty material and bulky trays. Our intraoral camera allows the patients to see before, during and after a procedure.

Sugar facts for your knowledge ..

Males consume more sugar drinks than females.

Teenagers and young adults consume more sugar drinks than other age groups.

Most of the sugar drinks consumed away from home are obtained from stores and not restaurants or schools. Consumption of sugar drinks in the United States has increased over the last 30 years among both children and adults (1–3).

Sugar drinks have been linked to poor diet quality, weight gain, obesity, and, in adults, type 2 diabetes.

U.S. dietary guidelines issued in 2010 recommend limiting the consumption of foods and beverages with added sugars. Moreover, the American Heart Association has recommended a consumption goal of no more than 450 kilocalories (kcal) of sugar-sweetened beverages—or fewer than three 12-oz cans of carbonated cola—per week.

FUN FACTS! Did you know? ..

Say cheese! The calcium and phosphoruous found in cheese is healthy for your teeth - it reduces the pH level in plaque and re-mineralizes the enamel. 60% of people who don't know that a sore jaw, when combined with chest pain, can signal a heart attack- especially in women. 50% of people consider the smile the first facial feature they notice. 80% of people are not happy with their smiles. 83% of people believe their teeth are more important to their appearance than hair and eyes.

What do the researchers say about periodontal disease?

Researchers say that people with periodontal disease (Gum disease) are at higher risk for developing heart disease, stroke, uncontrolled diabetes, pre-term and respiratory disease. People with gum disease are also twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease as those without disease.

How often do you smile?

The average woman smiles about 62 times a day! A man? Only 8! Kids laugh around 400 times a day. Grown-ups just 15 :-(