Boulder General Dentistry | Dr. Birnbach, D.M.D.

Are Bridges Obsolete?

2010-04-15T11:42:00.002-06:00

Truth is, bridges aren't the best dentistry for most
folks who lose one or more tooth.

The fixed bridge was the best dentistry had to offer for a long
time.

A fixed bridge provides one or more fake teeth that are
held onto the teeth on either side of the missing tooth by crowns.

That means removing good, healthy tooth structure in order to fit a
crown. Replacing one tooth required treating 2 other teeth.

It used to be the best dentistry. Now implants
are a preferred way of replacing a missing tooth.

An implant doesn't require crowns on the surrounding
teeth.
It's a one tooth solution to a one tooth problem.

If you have a bridge already, you also know that the
gums under the missing tooth (or teeth) often develop
problems. It is hard to floss and brush there, and
there is sometimes infection and bone loss as a result.

As a result of the difficulty in cleaning under the false tooth, new decay may form, necessitating that a new bridge be made. Sometimes the decay causes so much destruction that a tooth may be lost, meaning yet another tooth needs to be crowned.

Fixed bridges were a fine form of dentistry for a long
time, but now implants are often better.

If you have a fixed bridge that is wearing out or
causing you problems, you may want to consider
implants.

Test- Evaluate your risk for heart disease

2010-02-10T09:31:00.002-07:00

There is growing scientific data to link the health of one's mouth , especially gums and bone, to over all health. In fact, last week , the news carried an item which stated that a still born child's death was directly related to the mother's periodontal condition.

Want to learn if you are at risk for life threatening conditions related to your mouth?

click on the following link to take a self assessment test.

http://service.previser.com/aap/default.aspx

Your Heart and your mouth

2010-02-03T08:44:00.002-07:00

What is the dirtiest, most disease ridden part of the human
body?

Nope. You are wrong. It isn't that.

It's your mouth.

Yuck.

And gums are what protects your mouth from getting inside
your body.

Gums are maybe the most important part of your body's
immune system.

If you brush and it bleeds, that is not a good sign.

If it hurts when you get your teeth cleaned, that is not a
good sign.

Gingivitis is the start of gum disease. It describes gums that
bleed or are inflamed.

Periodontitis is the advanced state of gum disease. When
gums deteriorate, bone underneath dissolves away. That
leaves the teeth's roots exposed to the dirty mouth and
that advances not just gum disease, but heart disease.

That's right. Many studies show that gum disease cause
bacteria to leak into the body and they latch onto the
heart, its valves, and the arteries feeding the heart
with blood.

So gum disease and heart disease are closely related.

What can you do about gum disease? Two things at
least.

One, is you can floss, brush, and use various good home care
practices.

Two, See your dentist and hygienist. A thorough cleaning involves
the dentist or hygienist going in below the gum line and
scraping away the accumulated film of bacteria that is
stuck to the teeth.

Sometimes, dentists are using lasers for deep scaling.

Sometimes, they use ultrasonic devices. We use
both.

Is it painful? Just a bit uncomfortable. The hygienist put on
a topical anesthetic, no needles.

Some folks will need to get numb for their procedures.

You may remember the old saying " the knee bone connected to the hip bone"

Your mouth ( gums and teeth) are connected to your heart.

Healthy mouth is necessary to have a healthy heart

SOUR CANDY NOT SO SWEET FOR TEETH

2009-10-01T10:15:00.003-06:00

Candies are tough on tooth enamel- and recent research indicates that the "sour" variety have even greater erosive potential.

Researchers @ the University of Iowa College of Dentistry conducted research using Jolly Ranchers, Life Savers, Mike and Ikes and Twizzlers.

The pH ( acidity) of both the original and sour flavors were evaluated.

The sour versions had lower pHs ( more acidic) and therefore more destructive to tooth structure.

This is especially important information for those people who suffer from dry mouth , whether from medication, systemic disease or exercise.

Sugar free substitutes are better ways to increase the salivary flow.

Using a fluoride mouth wash at bedtime ( swish for 60 seconds, expectorate ( spit out ) the excess and do not rinse . This will help to make the teeth more resistent to the effects of acids.

There are higher concentrations of these rinses that are used for people with "soft" teeth, and or lots of fillings and crowns. These are prescription medicaments and are available at our office, www.bouldersmiles.com

2009-10-01T09:45:00.002-06:00

Dr. Birnbach just attended the annual International College of Cranio Mandibular Orthopedics ( ICCMO ).

Presenters disseminated the latest information regarding the connection between how one's teeth come together ( bite or occlusion) and head and neck pain.

Real time muscle activity along with computer analysis of the motions of the jaw are used to discover the optimal position.

Dr. Birnbach has been using this equipment for several years, with great results.

Further information can be found at http://www.leadingdentists.com/

DO YOU ( or someone you love) SNORE ?

2009-06-30T09:57:00.015-06:00

Recent research indicates that snoring can be more than annoying - it can be an indication of a life threatening condition- obstructive sleep apnea. Do you wake up during the night gasping for breath? Does your partner tell you that they watch you as you stop breathing , awaiting your next breath? Do you wake up exhausted? Do you find yourself falling asleep during the day? More signs of this condition...

Occasionally waking up gasping or choking sensation

Recurrent awakenings or insomnia

Forgetfulness, mood changes or a decreased interest in sex

Walking up with a very sore or dry throat

Morning headaches

In some cases, a dental appliance worn at night, can be a vital tool in helping to treat this situation. Call us to find out more 303-443-4417

Laser Perio Therapy

2009-04-22T14:12:00.007-06:00

In our efforts to provide the very best care, we have begun using a laser to treat periodontal disease. It's more effective and more comfortable!

The following is an unsolicited comment by a patient we recently treated with this great new technology.

"Mark and Staff,

Your new laser treatment for Periodontal disease and cleaning is truly awesome.
Usually after intense cleaning and scaling my mouth
feels like an army trampled through- but within a matter of minutes
it felt like healing was beginning to happen. Within 12-24 hours of
intense work on one of my molars the tooth seemed to be much more
comfortable than it had been in many months and the sensitivity to
temperature and sugar was gone.

Now 36 hours later I can say that it feels better than it has felt in
years. I am anxious to hear how it affects other patients. Maybe now
I can get my mouth back to health and keep it there.

Thanks for all you do,
Jer"

If you are interested in more information on what Laser Perio Therapy can do for you, give us a call at 303-443-4417.

What Insurance We Take

2008-10-17T09:08:00.001-06:00

We certainly work with most insurance companies. We have intentionally chosen to be what is called an 'out of service provider' because that means that we can usually get a higher rebate for our patient than an 'in service provider.' I know that this can be very confusing, but when patients understand this, most patients are very happy with the way in which we can help them.

Treating Gaps in Front Teeth

2008-10-10T08:59:00.002-06:00

There are several ways to treat the gaps between front teeth.
They range from orthodontics (braces and / or removable devices) to additions to the tooth structure.

The disadvantage of orthodontic treatment is that it can take from 12 -24 months, during which time the activating devices (braces, bands, wires) must be worn 24/7. Besides being unsightly, there is some discomfort as the teeth move, and require more effort to keep the teeth and gums healthy.
The advantage is that there is no change to the tooth structure.

An alternative, sometimes called "Instant orthodontics" is the addition of different types of dental materials to the teeth to close the space in from one to two visits.
If the gap is small, "bonding" tooth colored filling material is the fastest and least expensive way to close the gap. The disadvantage is that this material is not strong and can chip and discolor over time. Some minor, but permanent changes, to the teeth may be necessary.

If the gap is large, the best choice is to use custom made pieces of porcelain (veneers) that are bonded (glued) to the teeth. They are very strong and do not stain.
The disadvantages are that permanent changes to the existing tooth structure are necessary and they cost more due in part to the laboratory expense.
For examples of the results, click on the following link http://www.bouldersmiles.com/gaps.html

The Best Way to Whiten Your Teeth

2008-10-03T08:58:00.001-06:00

Whitening your teeth is an easy way to have a brighter, more attractive smile. We have found (and research proves) that the best, longest lasting results are accomplished by using custom made trays for 1/2 to one hour per day for up to 2 weeks. To begin the process, we would see you for a brief exam to be certain that you are a candidate and that there aren't any conditions that would pose a problem (decay, crowns, large tooth colored fillings etc.) We would then take photographs of your teeth to document the existing shade of your teeth. Models would be taken to create the custom made trays to hold the whitening material against your teeth. Once these trays are made, we will review with you the proper techniques and then have you return to the office so we can follow your progress. The fee for all of this is only $400. Please call and let us know when you would like to get started. I look forward to meeting you and helping have a brighter, healthier smile.

Why Exams Take an Hour

2008-09-26T08:54:00.001-06:00

Dentistry has changed dramatically over the last few years so there are more options to consider than ever before. Dr. Birnbach wants to have enough time to carefully discuss your concerns and all the options available. He will not dictate treatment; rather share your options in depth so you can make an informed decision about what is best for you.

What You Can Expect During Your First Visit

2008-09-19T08:50:00.001-06:00

We will start out by sending you a welcome pack; in it you will find a medical history form. Please complete the form at home and be sure to include any medication you are taking. Mail, fax, or bring the form with you to your appointment. When you arrive, we'll spend some time with you before Dr. Birnbach looks at your teeth, so we can discuss your concerns and desires. Then Dr. Birnbach will carefully examine your mouth, teeth and gums and address any other conditions you are concerned about. Dr. Birnbach may need to take an x-ray scan of your jaw/mouth/teeth. We allow at least one hour for an initial exam. Once we know exactly what is needed, we will book an appointment for any treatment that is necessary.

Missing Filling

2008-09-12T08:37:00.003-06:00

Q: I've got a piece of filling missing but it doesn't hurt. What Should I do?

A: I'm really glad to hear that it isn't hurting yet. It's interesting to know that the most serious conditions are painless. By far, most teeth are lost with conditions that are completely painless. In fact, often when there is pain, it means that the nerve is still alive. I'm sure you'll be fine, but I'm always concerned when people think if it isn't hurting it can't be serious. Perhaps we should try to get you in sooner than later. In the meantime it might be safer to only chew on the other side of your mouth.

Finding a Dentist That Works with Insurance Companies

2008-09-05T08:29:00.002-06:00

Insurance companies basically have an agenda to minimize their expenses so they make a profit for their share holders. We have a lot of patients here who started off wanting a dentist who is an 'in network' dentist…these patients prefer to see an 'out of network' dentist now because they realized it is not in their best interest to have the insurance company determine their treatment. We even had patients who still decided to see an 'in network' dentist, then after experiencing the insurance realities decided to come see us.

Gum Disease Hurts More than Your Mouth

2008-05-28T16:29:00.001-06:00

By now you are probably aware of the things to help keep your teeth and gums healthy: brush and floss, visit the dentist twice a year, keep snacking to a minimum, and don't smoke. While this advice is ingrained in us at a young age, nearly 50% of people will have a cavity by the time they are 12-years-old. Telling our children to do these things so they don't get cavities is one thing. Cavities can be fixed. However, it has been noted that poor oral health can lead to periodontal disease, and this can lead to things that cannot be fixed as easily or even at all.

Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the gums that destroys tissue and bone that holds the teeth. It is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. While some people are simply genetically prone to periodontal disease, many who have it could have avoided the problems. And now, links have been established between this disease and increased risk of heart attack, stroke, problems for those with diabetes, and problems with pregnancy (pre-eclampsia, low birth weight, and preterm birth).

There are several hypotheses about why this happens. One of them is that oral bacteria enters the bloodstream, attaches to fatty plaques in the arteries, and causes clots. Another is that inflammation of the gums may cause a buildup of plaque itself.

Treating periodontal disease includes reducing gum inflammation and lowering the amount of bacteria in the mouth, but why let it get to this point? If you know how to avoid the disease in the first place, the health of your teeth and gums, as well as your overall health, can be improved.

For more information on periodontal disease, its treatment, and its risks, please contact Dr. Birnbach.

Oral Cancer Screening

2008-05-22T16:27:00.000-06:00

The prevalence of oral cancer in our society is alarming when you look at the numbers. Nearly 34,000 people get it each year, and around 8,000 die as a result of it. It is the second most serious dental problem behind periodontal disease.

Major causes of oral cancer are smoking and alcohol abuse, but there are many who get it who have never abused these things. There is some indication that one of the causes may also be human paopilloma virus (HPV), a sexually transmitted virus that also causes cervical cancer.

While there are 11,000 cases of cervical cancer a year, nearly 60 million pap smears are given each year to detect this disease. Not so with oral cancer. However, many dentists, including Dr. Birnbach have begun to screen for oral cancer using the ViziLite system. This is a non-invasive and completely painless technique for detecting oral cancer in its earliest stages, even before you see lesions with your own eye.

Symptoms of oral cancer include bleeding from the mouth or throat, difficulty swallowing, lumps in or around the mouth, and red or white lesions. It occurs most frequently on the gums, lips, tongue, and floor of the mouth.

By taking care to practice good oral hygiene, get twice yearly checkups, and add oral cancer screening to your dental routine, you will not only avoid the chance of getting oral cancer, but may stop it in its earliest stages. Remember that how you take care of your teeth and gums affects more than your smile.

If you are interested in being screened for oral cancer in addition to your routine dental exam, please contact Dr. Birnbach.

Treating Sleep Apnea

2008-03-31T17:33:00.002-06:00

Sleep apnea, a disorder where you stop breathing for at least ten seconds, can be a serious condition. Besides daytime fatigue, which can really ruin your day, sleep apnea can cause high blood pressure, sexual dysfunction, heart attacks, and strokes. That's right; sleep apnea may lead to death.

However, there are several ways to treat sleep apnea and improve your sleep and your health.

Behavioral Changes - Because things like alcohol intake, tobacco use, and diet may be causes, changing your behavior can help. By quitting smoking, limiting the amount of alcohol you consume, and losing weight, you reduce the severity of apnea. If you are unable to change your behavior on your own, talk to a physician.
Oral Appliance Therapy - Several devices may help including mouth guards, tongue and jaw positioners. These will help to hold those parts of your mouth, such as your tongue or jaw, from blocking your airway.
CPAP - Continuous Positive Airway Pressure is a mask you wear at night to keep air flowing through your nostrils. This keeps your throat from closing and keeps oxygen flowing to your brain and heart. CPAP will also help keep you from snoring.

If you suffer from sleep apnea, please contact Dr. Birnbach to find out your treatment options. Don't miss anymore sleep because of this condition.

TMD: Causes and Symptoms

2008-03-27T12:01:00.001-06:00

TMD, or Temporomandibular Disorder, occurs when there are problems with the jaw, the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), or the surrounding muscles of the face. These muscles help control chewing and movement of the jaw, as well as some of the facial expressions. Some injuries, such as whiplash or a blow to the jaw, can cause TMD. Other causes include:

Clenching or grinding the teeth (bruxism)
Dislocation of the soft cushion between the ball and socket of the jaw
Stress, which can cause tightening of facial and jaw muscles, or clenching of the teeth
Presence of arthritis

Severe pain and discomfort often accompanies TMD, and is most commonly seen in people between 20 and 40 years old. More women than men suffer from TMD.

Common Symptoms

Pain in face, neck, shoulders, or area of the jaw
Jaw that locks in open or closed position
Swelling on the side of the face
Clicking or popping in the jaw, which may or may not be painful
Difficulty chewing
Toothaches
Headaches, including migraines
Tinnitus
Dizziness

Being diagnosed with TMD is done by a dentist who has experience in neuromuscular dentistry. After finding that you have TMD, finding the root of the cause, as well as treatment of the symptoms can begin. Treatment might include wearing a mouth guard to help adjust your bite, dental treatment which might include crowns to replace missing teeth, or a change in your diet to avoid hard and sticky foods.

If you think you might have TMD or want to know more about it, please contact Dr. Birnbach, serving Boulder and the area from Fort Collins to Denver, Colorado.

Healthy Mouth, Happy Mouth

2008-01-23T10:50:00.001-07:00

Practicing good oral hygiene is the most important preventative measure a person can take to reduce the risk of most dental problems. Good oral hygiene is essential for preventing the most common forms of dental problems from tooth decay to bad breath to gingivitis. A dentist and his staff can help you learn all about good oral hygiene techniques and can help point out areas of your mouth that may require extra attention during brushing and flossing. Healthy teeth not only allow you to look and feel good, they make it possible to eat and speak properly. Good oral health is, therefore, imperative to your overall health and well-being.

Visiting a dentist regularly is an excellent way of achieving good oral hygiene and having a healthy and happy mouth. A general dentist will perform routine teeth cleaning such as scaling and root planing to eliminate plaque and tartar that builds up on the teeth. Plaque and tartar are the main causes of oral hygiene problems. In between dentist visits, it is highly recommended that you brush thoroughly at least twice a day and floss daily. Eating a balanced diet and limiting snacks between meals is also recommended. Using dental products that contain fluoride will also help the health of your teeth and gums. Brushing properly is crucial to the health of your teeth; an excellent general dentist can show you how to brush properly to ensure the maximum benefit.

To learn more about how to care for your teeth and gums to ensure a long life for both, please contact Dr. Birnbach, general dentist, serving patients in the Boulder, Colorado area since 1977.

IF YOU BREAK A FRONT TOOTH

2008-01-10T10:04:00.001-07:00

Accidents do happen.

If this misfortune should happen to you ( and there aren't any other injuries) there are some steps you can take that may allow us to repair the damage relatively quickly if you can retrieve the broken piece(s) of tooth.

It is important to keep the fragments wet. Milk would be best, however, water will do.

Call us and we will see you as soon as possible.

After taking necessary x-rays, the area will be numbed and the area isolated with a rubber dam.

This allows us to control moisture.

We will assess whether all the missing parts of the tooth are present . If they are , using state of the art techniques , we can reattach the segments. If some of the structure is missing, we can use tooth colored material to replace what is lacking.

Below are some photos that illustrate what can be done.

This individual was in a wrestling tournament when his teeth were broken. We were able to restore his smile and he returned to finish competing the same day!

BEFORE

AFTER