Melrose Family Dentistry Blog Melrose MA Dentist

What To Expect From Teeth Whitening

2012-02-14T20:28:00.001-05:00

Decided to have your teeth whitened? The first step is to be sure that your expectations are realistic.

It’s important not to expect a celebrity-bright smile, as everyone’s teeth react differently to the peroxide.

You may expect quicker whitening results if you opt for an in-office whitening procedure. These procedures are considered safe, though you can expect some sensitivity in your teeth and gums, which usually resolves after the whitening procedure is complete. It is not uncommon for the tooth color to "rebound" a week or two following this type of treatment, so using an at-home product such as Crest Whitestrips may help maintain the results following the treatment.

When you undergo an in-office whitening procedure, your dentist will apply the bleaching solution directly to your teeth and may possibly use a laser or other specialized device to speed up the bleaching process. You can expect to see some results after one treatment, but you may choose to have more than one treatment to get the effect that you want. An in-office bleaching treatment usually takes 30 to 60 minutes and costs anywhere from $500 to $1000 for your entire mouth.

How long can you expect the benefits to last? That depends in part on your habits. If you smoke, or if you drink large amounts of coffee or tea, you may need another procedure after a few years.

The Team!

2012-01-30T21:52:00.001-05:00

The Melrose Family Dentistry Team having lunch at Jerry Remy's while attending the Yankee Dental Congress in Boston:

Invisalign - The Clear Alternative to Braces

2012-01-20T23:48:00.000-05:00

Melrose Family Dentistry is your local Invisalign Provider for Melrose, Malden, Stoneham, Saugus, Wakefield, Reading, Lynnfield and other surrounding areas of Massachusetts. Call today to see if Invisalign clear braces are right for you! (781) 665-2113.

2012: A Great Year to QUIT SMOKING!

2012-01-04T18:12:00.000-05:00

Besides being an instant bad breath cure, quitting smoking can improve the appearance of your teeth. For many people, tooth staining is one of the most common side effects of smoking. You may see some improvement with tooth whitening toothpastes or other whitening products, but the stains will persist if you continue to smoke.

Need another reason? Besides the superficial problems of stained teeth and bad breath, smoking can affect your oral health by significantly increasing your risk for developing oral cancer. Oral cancer includes cancer of the lip or mouth, including the tongue, the insides of the cheeks, the gums, the area under the tongue, the bony area in the top of the mouth and the area in the back of the mouth behind the wisdom teeth.

Data from the National Cancer Institute show that more than 5,000 people in the United States will die from oral cancer in 2008, and more than 22,000 new cases of oral cancer will be identified. The best way to reduce your risk for oral cancer is to stop smoking. Tell your doctor or dentist that you are ready to quit smoking and he or she can help direct you to local support groups and perhaps prescribe nicotine replacement products to help you through the process. In addition, be sure to follow a regular routine of good oral health care, including twice-daily tooth brushing and daily flossing.

Orthodontic Braces Melrose MA, Malden, Stoneham, Saugus, Wakefield

2011-12-10T18:14:00.001-05:00

Looking for Orthodontic Braces in the Melrose, Malden, Stoneham, Saugus, Wakefield area?

When should I begin treatment?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children get a check-up with an orthodontist no later than age seven. Although only a few orthodontic problems need to be corrected at that age, an early exam allows the orthodontist to offer advice and guidance as to when the appropriate age to start treatment would be. Let your orthodontist guide you as to when to start treatment. Feel free to ask questions about the timing of treatment.

How long will my treatment take?

The length of treatment varies depending on the complexity of the orthodontic problem that requires correction, growth and tissue response to treatment as well as the level of patient cooperation during their treatment. Orthodontic care requires a team approach in which the family dentist, the orthodontist and the patient play key roles that can impact the length of treatment and the quality of the end result. Generally, the length of comprehensive orthodontic treatment can range from approximately 18 months to 30 months, depending on treatment options and individual characteristics.

What are the stages of treatment?

Generally, there are two or three stages of orthodontic treatment. Most patients will benefit from an active corrective stage followed by a retention stage. Some patients will benefit from two active treatment stages often referred to as two-phase treatment. The goals of each stage should be discussed with the orthodontist so that patients and/or parents have realistic expectations.

How are teeth moved?

Teeth respond to the gentle forces that are applied that connects the brackets and provides the forces to steer the teeth in the proper direction. It’s actually the wires d to them. “Braces” are a combination of “brackets” and “wires”. Brackets are the part of the braces that attach to the teeth. Brackets are the “handles” that help control movement of the teeth. Braces require a wire called an archwire that move teeth. The interaction of brackets and archwires enables the orthodontist to have three-dimensional control over the movement of the teeth. In many cases, additional forces are needed to help balance the underlying jaw structure and to help the upper and lower teeth fit properly together to make the bite right. Examples of these extra forces include: elastics (rubber bands) hooked to teeth; headgear; functional appliances; and palatal expanders.

For those near the Melrose, Malden, Stoneham, Saugus, Wakefield area that would like to make an orthodontic braces appointment please call (781) 665-2113 today.

Looking for an Orthodontist in Melrose, Malden, Saugus, Stoneham, Wakefield MA?

2011-11-26T18:42:00.001-05:00

Recent years have brought about many changes within the dental industry, specifically with regards to orthodontic treatment and care. Now more than ever patients are experiencing fewer incidences of cavities and missing teeth due to the heightened awareness of fluoride use and preventative dentistry. This increasing awareness on the health and look of a patient’s smile has fueled the desire for many to seek out orthodontic treatment not only as a medical necessity, but for cosmetic reasons as well.

Whether its traditional braces or custom made removable appliances, orthodontics can help you have the healthy, straight, beautiful smile you've been waiting for!

Give us a call today (781) 665-2113 and schedule your orthodontic consultation!

Now accepting new patients from Melrose, Malden, Saugus, Stoneham, Wakefield MA and surrounding areas.

Invisalign Dentistry Stoneham, Saugus, Malden, Melrose, Wakefield...

2011-10-29T17:22:00.000-04:00

Invisalign takes a modern approach to straightening teeth, using a custom-made series of aligners created for you and only you. These aligner trays are made of smooth, comfortable and virtually invisible plastic that you simply wear over your teeth. Wearing the aligners will gradually and gently shift your teeth into place, based on the exact movements your Invisalign dentist or orthodontist plans out for you. There are no metal brackets to attach and no wires to tighten. You simply pop in a new set of aligners approximately every two weeks, until your treatment is complete and you achieve the confident smile that you've always wanted. The best part about the whole process is that most people won't even know you're straightening your teeth!

For those in the Massachusetts towns of Melrose, Wakefield, Stoneham, Saugus, Malden and surrounding areas, call us at (781) 665-2113 to make an appointment with our Invisalign Dentist.

Your Six Month Smiles Dentist - Stoneham, Saugus, Wakefield, Malden...

2011-10-12T20:06:00.000-04:00

http://www.melrosefamilydentistry.com/

Six Month Smiles - Stoneham, Saugus, Malden, Wakefield...

2011-10-12T19:42:00.000-04:00

Are you one of the millions of adults who are unhappy, self-conscious or even embarrassed of your smile?

Many adults spend their entire lives covering their mouths when they laugh, smile or talk. They feel stuck because they do not want to wear metal braces for years or they are concerned that other corrective procedures could be too invasive or too expensive. Now, there is an effective, safe and affordable cosmetic solution that fits your lifestyle.

A revolutionary combination of proven orthodontic techniques, modern materials, and innovative thought - Six Month Smiles® utilizes specialized clear braces to gently straighten and align teeth in an average time of just six months.

Take the first step towards improving your smile, your confidence and your life contact your local Six Month Smiles® dentist today at (781) 665-2113.

Flossing, The Bad Breath Killer!

2011-09-07T20:41:00.000-04:00

Need another reason to floss your teeth at least once a day? Flossing daily helps improve bad breath by effectively removing the food particles and bacteria that contribute to it. That makes flossing one of the easiest ways to prevent and banish bad breath.

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is more common than many people realize. You may joke about bad breath, whether it’s your own or someone else’s, but it’s an important oral health issue. Bad breath can be more than an embarrassing social problem—it can be a sign of disease or illness.

Saliva is Your Friend

Less saliva means that your mouth is more susceptible to plaque buildup, which can create an unpleasant smell on your breath. Pay extra attention to any of the following circumstances that can reduce the saliva in your mouth and promote bad breath:

•Drinking alcohol. Alcohol-containing beverages may promote a dry mouth and cause bad breath. So don’t forget to floss after an evening out on the town, no matter how much you’re tempted to hop into bed and forget about it.

•Early morning. Saliva stops flowing while you sleep, so you may be prone to bad breath in the morning. If so, mornings may be the best time for your daily dental flossing.

•Being hungry or thirsty. When you’re dehydrated, there’s not as much saliva in your mouth, so you’re prone to bad breath and increased bacterial buildup. Drink enough fluids and remember to floss. Also, remember that chewing food increases the saliva in your mouth, so if you’re skipping meals or dieting, you may develop bad breath.

If you’re dieting and eating less frequently, a mint floss can not only help bad breath by removing bacteria, it may help you with your diet by providing a fresh taste in your mouth that makes you less tempted to snack. People who are following extremely low carbohydrate diets also sometimes report bad breath, but these reports are anecdotal. If you’re on a low-carb diet, or any restrictive diet, you may be promoting bad breath. If you must restrict your food intake and eat infrequently, drink plenty of water to help maintain the level of saliva in your mouth to help prevent bad breath in addition to following a good oral care routine.

Other Causes

If you experience chronic bad breath that doesn’t seem to improve despite a consistent oral hygiene routine, talk to your dentist and doctor for further evaluation to identify or prevent serious health problems.

Sometimes bad breath can be a sign of a more serious issue. Some serious oral health conditions associated with bad breath include:

•Throat problems such as strep throat.
•Dental cavities or gum disease.
•Throat or oral cancer.
•Tonsils that contain trapped food particles.
•An infected root canal

In addition, bad breath can be a symptom of a variety of serious non-oral health problems including liver disease, diabetes, HIV, digestive system ailments such as reflux and even lung infections or lung disease.

The Importance of Habit

Research supports a link between lack of flossing (among other poor oral hygiene behaviors) and bad breath. In a study of more than 1,000 adults conducted in Kuwait, never using dental floss was significantly associated with reports of bad breath, as was infrequent tooth brushing, being or having been a smoker.

Your oral care routine to help prevent bad breath should include not only daily flossing, but also brushing the teeth, tongue, gums and roof of your mouth twice each day. Using a mouthwash can provide short-term relief for bad breath, but use it as an addition to (not a substitute for) brushing and flossing.

Promote Oral Health with Good Nutrition

2011-07-23T14:59:00.001-04:00

Calcium And Vitamin C Promote Oral Health

Eating a variety of nutritious food is good for your overall health, including your oral health. Some vitamins in particular have demonstrated benefits to building healthy teeth, namely calcium and vitamin C, so be sure to include foods rich in these nutrients in your diet. Calcium has been shown to help build strong teeth, and vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that also plays an important role in collagen synthesis, by which it helps you develop and maintain healthy gums.

•Calcium: Dairy products, including milk, yogurt and cheese are good sources of calcium. Many physicians recommend 1,200 to 1,500 milligrams of calcium daily for most adults, so you may want to consider a calcium supplement, especially if dairy products aren’t a regular part of your diet. Also, try switching to low-sugar or sugar-free varieties of yogurt, since sugar (and bacteria) can promote tooth decay.

•Vitamin C: Many fruits and vegetables including berries, oranges and cantaloupe, as well as green vegetables including broccoli and spinach are excellent sources of vitamin C.

Of course, in addition to eating right, it’s important to follow a consistent dental care routine of twice-daily tooth brushing and daily flossing to promote oral health. And be sure to see your dental professional regularly and talk to them if you have questions about how your diet might affect your oral health.

Pain Free Flossing

2011-07-09T15:41:00.000-04:00

One of the most common reasons people give for not flossing their teeth daily is that they find flossing uncomfortable and even painful. Some people experience bleeding gums after flossing, and this discourages them from continuing with this healthy habit and important element of dental hygiene.

The truth is, even if you have sensitive gums, you can enjoy pain-free flossing. Instead of the thin, string-like flosses, try a soft floss, such as Oral-B® SATINfloss®. Or try a dental tape, such as Oral-B’s Satin Tape, which is wider than standard floss. Many people with sensitive gums find that the dental tape is more comfortable, enabling them to make flossing part of their daily oral care routine.

Also, be sure that you’re using a soft-bristle brush, so your teeth and gums aren’t irritated when it's time to floss. Use a soft touch with both brushing and flossing—you don’t need to scrub hard with your toothbrush or use a lot of force when you floss to get the benefits, just be sure to brush thoroughly and floss between each tooth.

As a wise dentist once said, "You don’t have to floss all your teeth—just the ones you want to keep!"

http://www.melrosefamilydentistry.com

Tooth Whitening Melrose MA

2011-06-04T16:11:00.000-04:00

Tooth Whitening Continues to be a Popular Dental Request

You want to look good. For some people that means nice clothes or a new haircut, while for many others it is having a whiter smile. A 2007 survey of cosmetic dentists conducted by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry reported that tooth whitening procedures appear to be increasing each year. The results of this 2007 survey indicated a 15 percent increase over the 2005 survey.

There are a number of tooth whitening options to consider including in-office bleaching, at-home bleaching and whitening products sold over the counter such as whitening toothpastes, whitening strips, whitening pens and whitening mouth rinses. It is important to consult with your dentist to determine the type of whitening treatment he/she feels is in your best interest. Your dentist will take into account the shade of your teeth and what can be done to make them whiter and more attractive.

In-office Bleaching – This type of bleaching is conducted in the dentist’s office and can be done in one or two visits. The in-office bleaching options are tray bleaching and bleaching through the use of lasers. In tray bleaching, an impression of the teeth is taken and individualized, custom-fit trays are made to fit your teeth. This process may take several office visits to get the level of whitening desired. The bleaching gel is applied in the tray and then onto the teeth. A custom-fit tray will help to decrease the bleaching gel’s contact with the gum tissue.

For laser bleaching, the dentist applies a rubber dam or a protective gel to cover the gum tissue. Then, a bleaching gel is applied to the teeth for a certain length of time. The ultraviolet laser light may be used to activate the whitening agent in the bleaching gel. Several appointments will be set up for this procedure. Laser-enhanced bleaching does provide significant results in whitening your smile, though they are more expensive than at-home bleaching. Whitening kits are also provided to continue whitening at home after their in-office procedure.

At-home Bleaching – Schedule an appointment to meet with the dentist who evaluates what type of at-home bleaching system would be best based upon the color/shade of the teeth. An impression of your teeth is taken to develop a custom-fit tray(s). You will then be taught how to use the whitening system. The whitening system is used once or twice daily for one to two weeks and tooth sensitivity is monitored. At-home bleaching is a longer process than in-office bleaching.

Over-the-counter Products – This type of bleaching is self-applied and so it is important for you to read the directions for use and what specifically needs to be done. Some of the over-the-counter products are whitening strips, prefabricated trays, paint-on agents, toothpastes and mouth rinses.

Whitening strips deliver the active ingredient on film strips. Whitening strips are placed onto the teeth up to two times per day for 30 minutes for about two weeks.

Prefabricated trays contain the active bleaching ingredient that is placed into the upper and lower trays. These trays are worn 30-60 minutes each day for five to 10 days.

Paint-on whitening products are actually painted onto the tooth surface. They can be used for several days pending the type of paint-on system.

Toothpastes formulated with peroxide would have the shortest time to expose the active ingredient to the teeth.

Mouth rinses with an active whitening ingredient can also be used to whiten teeth, but also provide less exposure of the active ingredient to teeth. Consult your dentist to learn which whitening mouth rinse would be best for you. Should add more information regarding the OTC toothpastes that remove surface stains and how they work.

http://www.melrosefamilydentistry.com

What is Good Oral Hygiene?

2011-04-27T18:48:00.000-04:00

What is Good Oral Hygiene?

Good oral hygiene results in a mouth that looks and smells healthy. This means:

Your teeth are clean and free of debris
Gums are pink and do not hurt or bleed when you brush or floss
Bad breath is not a constant problem
If your gums do hurt or bleed while brushing or flossing, or you are experiencing persistent bad breath, see your dentist. Any of these conditions may indicate a problem.

Your dentist or hygienist can help you learn good oral hygiene techniques and can help point out areas of your mouth that may require extra attention during brushing and flossing.

How is Good Oral Hygiene Practiced?
Maintaining good oral hygiene is one of the most important things you can do for your teeth and gums. Healthy teeth not only enable you to look and feel good, they make it possible to eat and speak properly. Good oral health is important to your overall well-being.

Daily preventive care, including proper brushing and flossing, will help stop problems before they develop and is much less painful, expensive, and worrisome than treating conditions that have been allowed to progress.

In between regular visits to the dentist, there are simple steps that each of us can take to greatly decrease the risk of developing tooth decay, gum disease and other dental problems. These include:

Brushing thoroughly twice a day and flossing daily
Eating a balanced diet and limiting snacks between meals
Using dental products that contain fluoride, including toothpaste
Rinsing with a fluoride mouthrinse if your dentist tells you to
Making sure that your children under 12 drink fluoridated water or take a fluoride supplement if they live in a non-fluoridated area

http://www.melrosefamilydentistry.com

Melrose Family Dentistry BBB

2011-02-23T11:46:00.000-05:00

Melrose Family Dentistry is now a BBB Accredited Business

Smokers Present Tougher Bacterial Challenge to Periodontal Treatment

2011-02-17T20:41:00.000-05:00

Periodontal disease is difficult to successfully treat in any dental patient. One patient type that can be especially challenging is smokers. Smokers are up to 6X more likely to experience periodontal destruction compared to non-smokers And it's been long recognized that smoking impairs healing following non-surgical periodontal treatment.

A new study has found that smoking may pose yet another hurdle.

In patients with moderate-to-severe chronic periodontitis, researchers found that smokers consistently demonstrated lower levels of health-protective bacteria and significantly higher levels of disease-related bacteria below their gumlines. These included higher levels of the red complex Treponema and Tannerella species, which have been linked to more severe and refractory periodontitis.

This may help to explain why smokers are less responsive to scaling and root planing (SRP) alone, exhibiting smaller pocket depth reductions and fewer clinical gains resulting in deeper periodontal pockets.

www.melrosefamilydentistry.com

36th Annual Yankee Dental Congress

2011-02-10T22:15:00.000-05:00

Our doctors and staff recently attended the 36th Annual Yankee Dental Congress at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center. Yankee is the largest dental meeting in New England and entertains upwards of 25,000 dentists and dental personnel . This is a great way to stay up to date on new technology, new products and new techniques.

Our office attends many hours of courses and classes on a yearly basis to stay current in the rapidly evolving technology available to the dental field . At Melrose Family Dentistry, we pride ourselves in offering the best, most current treatment options to our patients and their families.

Toothbrush Advice!

2011-02-07T19:25:00.000-05:00

Toothbrush Care and Replacement

How can I take care of my toothbrush?

To keep your toothbrush and yourself healthy, make sure you let it dry out between uses. Toothbrushes can be breeding grounds for germs, fungus and bacteria, which after a while can build up to significant levels. After using your toothbrush, shake it vigorously under tap water and store it in an upright position so that it can air out.

To prevent cold and flu viruses from being passed between brushes, try to keep your toothbrush from touching others when it is stored. A standard toothbrush holder with slots for several brushes to hang upright is a worthwhile investment in your family's health.

How often should I change my toothbrush?

Most dentists agree you should change your toothbrush every three months. Studies show that after three months of normal wear and tear, toothbrushes are much less effective at removing plaque from teeth and gums compared to new ones. The bristles break down and loose their effectiveness in getting to all those tricky corners around your teeth.

It is also important to change toothbrushes after you've had a cold, the flu, a mouth infection or a sore throat. That's because germs can hide in toothbrush bristles and lead to reinfection. Even if you haven't been sick, fungus and bacteria can develop in the bristles of your toothbrush —another reason to change your toothbrush regularly.

How can I protect my toothbrush when traveling?

A plastic toothbrush case will protect toothbrush bristles from becoming squashed or flattened in your traveling kit. After brushing, however, you should let your toothbrush dry in the open air, to help reduce the spread of germs.

Visit us at http://www.melrosefamilydentistry.com

My Enemy, The Dentist (John Whittier, 1956)

2011-01-14T08:45:00.000-05:00

My Enemy, The Dentist
John Whittier, 1956

It isn't unusual for people to dislike going to the dentist.

The waiting in the outer office is really terrible when you try not to listen, but can't help hearing the cry of pain from the person before you. You feel like getting up and leaving, but you try to let everyone else think you're not the least bit afraid.

Everytime I am in the dentist's chair, I get the feeling that the dentist isn't telling me all the things I should know, and the words he uses to tell the nurse what has to be done are like those of a foreign language.

How I dread it when the dentist starts to go to work! Try to imagine the buzzing sound of a drill as it digs into a decayed tooth or the cracking of a tooth that was too far gone and had to be extracted; it hurts just to think of it.

I am sure you have all gone through the part when the dentist asks, "Does it hurt?" and you have so many instruments and so much cotton in your mouth that you couldn't answer him even if you wanted to.

I never take my eyes off the dentist from the time I enter up to the time I leave.

If you really stop and think for a miute, you will find out that the dentist isn't an enemy but a good friend. Think of the hours that you have suffered with a toothache. If you see the dentist, it may hurt for a few minutes, but then the pain is all over. I used to think it wasn't right to pay so much money for so much pain. Now I realize that it was worth every cent to get rid of those nights that were spent in never-ending torture with a toothache.

Raisins: A snack that can benefit dental health?

2011-01-07T19:39:00.000-05:00

The holiday season is known for having a plethora of snacks available to partygoers and as well as random drop-ins to one's home. However, in a season of some many sweets and treats, it may be hard for some to maintain optimal dental health.

This is where raisins may come into play and may be the holiday snack fit for anyone.

A past study that was conducted at the University of Illinois in Chicago's College of Dentistry found that compounds in raisins may fight certain bacteria in the mouth that can cause cavities and gum disease.

Christine D. Wu, lead author in the study, stated that her research showed phytochemicals suppressed oral bacteria, which ran counter to the stigma that raisins were merely sweet snacks that stuck to people's teeth.

"Foods that are sticky do not necessarily cause tooth decay; it is mainly the added sugar (sucrose) that contributes to the problem," said Wu.

While raisins may be good healthy option this holiday season, it does not excuse people from avoiding routine dental care. The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice daily as well as flossing to maintain optimal dental health.

Visit www.melrosefamilydentistry.com to make your dental appointment today.

Going to the Dentist is Good for your Heart

2010-12-12T18:33:00.000-05:00

Women who go to the dentist have healthier hearts.

That’s according to a new study from University of California, Berkeley researchers, who published their findings online Sept. 29 in the journal Health Economics. The study suggests that women who get dental care reduce their risk of heart attacks, stroke and other cardiovascular problems by at least one-third.

Data came from nearly 7,000 people, ages 44-88 enrolled in the Health and Retirement Study.

“Many studies have found associations between dental care and cardiovascular disease, but our study is the first to show that general dental care leads to fewer heart attacks, strokes and other adverse cardiovascular outcomes in a causal way,” said study lead author Timothy Brown, Ph.D., assistant adjunct professor of health policy and management at UC Berkeley’s School of Public Health.

This longitudinal study followed the same individuals over time, and each biennial survey included questions on whether subjects had visited the dentist and whether they had experienced a heart attack, stroke, angina or congestive heart failure during the prior two years. Deaths from heart attacks or strokes were also included in the analysis and the study took into account other risk factors, such as alcohol and tobacco use, high blood pressure and body mass index.

Zoom Teeth Whitening

2010-11-28T18:14:00.000-05:00

Zoom Whitening: See the Light and Unleash Your White

Zoom is a bleaching process widely used throughout the country and around the world to lighten discoloration of enamel and dentin. Tooth discoloration may result from drinking coffee, tea, cola and red wine; or from smoking. The aging process also can stain and darken your teeth.

The Zoom in-office tooth whitening procedure uses the Zoom Advanced Power Chairside Lamp – said to accelerate the bleaching process – to activate the 25 percent hydrogen peroxide whitening. As the hydrogen peroxide is broken down, oxygen enters the enamel and dentin to bleach the stained substances, leaving the structure of the tooth unchanged.

Zoom Tooth Whitening Consultation and Treatment Planning
Before deciding whether Zoom in-office teeth whitening is right for you, your dentist will conduct a comprehensive examination of your teeth and gums to ensure proper health, as well as talk with you about your oral hygiene and lifestyle habits to determine if you will benefit from whitening. This will help you and your dentist agree on the whitening product or technique that's best for you.

Your dentist also may require you to undergo tooth whitening if you are planning other cosmetic dental procedures, such as veneers or composite bonding, in order to ensure a better match between the restoration and your natural dentition, or after the removal of braces. Depending on the condition of your teeth and your goals for changing the look of your smile, tooth whitening may not be your best option.

During your consultation and evaluation, your dentist also will note existing dental work, such as crowns and veneers, which will not respond to conventional whitening agents.

The Zoom In-Office Whitening Procedure
The complete procedure takes less than an hour, but a regular teeth cleaning is recommended prior to the actual Zoom teeth whitening session.

The procedure begins with a short preparation to cover the lips and gums, leaving the teeth exposed. The dentist or dental assistant then applies the Zoom hydrogen peroxide whitening gel, which works together with the Zoom light to penetrate the teeth and break up the stains and discoloration.

The gel remains in place for 15 minutes while the light is activated. During this time, you can relax, watch TV or listen to music.

The gel is applied for three 15-minute sessions of light activation, for a total treatment time of 45 minutes. Individuals with a strong gag reflex or anxiety may have difficulty undergoing the entire procedure.

Immediately afterwards, a sensitivity-reducing fluoride paste-gel is applied to the teeth.

Zoom Whitening Aftercare: Maintaining Whitening Effects
You will be given a Zoom home-use touch-up kit that includes custom-fitted whitening trays. Follow your dentist's instructions for when and how to use this touch-up kit.

To help maintain the whitening effects of your Zoom teeth whitening treatment, your dentist may advise you to avoid certain foods and beverages, or consume them in moderation to avoid staining your teeth. This includes tea, coffee, red wine, cola, etc.

Additionally, tobacco products will stain teeth, even after whitening treatments. As such, your dentist will suggest you quit using them. Maintain an appropriate oral hygiene (brushing and flossing) regimen to prevent stains from reforming, and see your dentist and hygienist regularly for scheduled teeth cleanings.

Toothpastes containing whitening agents also may be suggested by your dentist to maintain the results of the procedure.

Zoom Whitening Considerations
Sensitivity during treatment may occur in some people. The Zoom light produces minimal heat, which is usually the source of discomfort. Rarely, minor tingling is experienced immediately after the procedure, but always dissipates. Ask your dentist for an anti-sensitivity toothpaste prior to treatment to lessen sensitivity.

As with other tooth whitening products, Zoom whitening is not recommended for children under 13 years of age, or for pregnant or lactating women. Also, it is important to remember that whitening treatment may not be as effective for some people as it is for others. Only your dentist can determine if Zoom teeth whitening is right for you after performing a thorough oral examination that includes a shade assessment.

Zoom Teeth Whitening Cost and Treatment Time
The average cost of Zoom teeth whitening treatment is $500; this includes the supplemental take-home trays designed to maximize results. Most cosmetic dentistry treatments are not covered by dental insurance. Zoom whitening costs are therefore unaffected by most insurance plans.

Zoom teeth whitening treatment time varies; however, average chair time is approximately one hour.

CEREC Melrose, MA

2010-11-14T15:54:00.000-05:00

Welcome our new Dentist Dr. Sharma

2010-10-28T22:39:00.000-04:00

Shradha Sharma B.D.S., D.M.D, has been practicing general dentistry and doing dental research for over a decade. She received her Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree from Mumbai University, India in 1998 and a residency in Esthetic Dentistry Fellowship in 2001 and the D.M.D degree in 2007 from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. Dr. Sharma has taught and done research at Tufts Dental School for 8 years before joining Melrose Family Dentistry and has also been practicing privately. She’s now a visiting faculty at Tufts.

Dr. Sharma is a member of American Dental Association, Massachusetts Dental Society and American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and has published and given lectures on
Restorative Dentistry.

Dr. Sharma has a keen interest in the latest advancements and developments in dentistry and strives hard to provide cutting edge treatment plans with the most economic value and the best interest of her patients. Dr. Sharma has varied interests outside of dentistry from art to adventure sports and enjoys living life to the fullest. She lives in a quiet neighborhood in the North Shore with her husband and their one-and-a-half year old child.

Dental Veneers

2010-10-17T18:22:00.000-04:00

Dental veneers (sometimes called porcelain veneers or dental porcelain laminates) are wafer-thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front surface of teeth to improve your appearance. These shells are bonded to the front of the teeth changing their color, shape, size, or length.

Dental veneers can be made from porcelain or from resin composite materials. Porcelain veneers resist stains better than resin veneers and better mimic the light reflecting properties of natural teeth. Resin veneers are thinner and require removal of less of the tooth surface before placement. You will need to discuss the best choice of veneer material for you with your dentist.

What Types of Problems Do Dental Veneers Fix?
Veneers are routinely used to fix:

-Teeth that are discolored -- either because of root canal treatment; stains from tetracycline or other drugs, excessive fluoride or other causes; or the presence of large resin fillings that have discolored the tooth
-Teeth that are worn down
-Teeth that are chipped or broken
-Teeth that are misaligned, uneven, or irregularly shaped (for example, have craters or bulges in them)
-Teeth with gaps between them (to close the space between these teeth)

What's the Procedure for Getting a Dental Veneer?
Getting a dental veneer usually requires three trips to the dentist – one for a consultation and two to make and apply the veneers.

What Are the Advantages of Dental Veneers?
Veneers offer the following advantages:

-They provide a natural tooth appearance.
-Gum tissue tolerates porcelain well.
-Porcelain veneers are stain resistant.
-The color of a porcelain veneer can be selected such that it makes dark teeth appear whiter.
-Veneers offer a conservative approach to changing a tooth's color and shape -- veneers generally don't require the extensive shaping prior to the procedure that crowns do, yet offer a stronger, more aesthetic alternative.

Exciting News!

2010-10-07T10:29:00.000-04:00

We are the featured dental office from Melrose that will be on the new Melrose site that will be up and running in 2 weeks. This link is for people exploring Melrose as a possible choice for living as well as existing residents looking for certain resources. I will let you know when the site is active. If you are interested in going to the "Premier" let me know:

Walk the red carpet
with Mayor Rob Dolan
the Melrose Chamber of Commerce
and the Melrose arts community
as we put Melrose in the spotlight!

Get a sneak preview of the new City of
Melrose website

See the new video feature for local businesses

Be the first to watch the video “Art is Everywhere,” Melrose’s
entry in the Mayor’s Arts Challenge

Vote for the Melrose video in the Massachusetts Cultural Council
video competition

Get the latest news on our new athletic complex proposal

Where: Melrose Veterans Memorial Middle School
When: Wednesday, October 13
Doors open at 7:30 p.m.
Coffee, dessert, and popcorn will be served

From the Mayor!

2010-10-07T10:13:00.000-04:00

Why Melrose…?

Melrose is a city on the move, and the future of our great community has never been brighter. Without a doubt, Melrose is one of the most unique, welcoming, and beautifulcommunities in the Commonwealth. I feel so strongly about this that I have created aspecial section for you at our city website:

http://www.cityofmelrose.org/Welcome_to_Melrose.htm.

This section is designed for individuals who are making the critical decision of where to purchase a home, live, and perhaps raise a family. As a father, homeowner and life long resident I say without hesitation that Melrose is truly the best community to call home.

Melrose is the perfect compromise between a busy city and peaceful landscape. We have grand old Victorian homes, tree lined streets, lush parks and playing fields, all embraced by a beautiful “emerald necklace” of the Middlesex Fells Reservation, Mt. Hood Park, and protected conservation lands and beautiful ponds. At the same time, Melrose offers some of the most extensive and varied cultural and recreational activities on the North Shore. Our downtown has exceptional restaurants and a wonderful array of shops and services waiting to serve you.

What really sets Melrose apart is the feeling of community that permeates the city. Many neighborhoods are within walking distance of schools, playgrounds, shops, and churches. Melrose is small enough for people to truly get to know one another to promote a cooperative, congenial environment. We are proud of being a community that is open and welcoming to all.

If you drive around our city you will see many signs of construction and building. I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, but Melrose is committed to investing in its future. We are in the midst of historic reinvestment in our roads, our water and public safety infrastructure, our parks, a new flagship Middle School, and a high school renovation. We are committed to reinvesting in the city we love, to ensure that Melrose remains a community that offers a superior quality of life for all ages well into this century.

Thank you again for considering Melrose. If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact my office at 781-979-4440.

Best regards,

Robert J. Dolan
Mayor

Dental Insurance "Use it or Lose it"

2010-09-23T16:31:00.000-04:00

Today being the first day of Fall, we would like to remind our patients with dental insurance that your dental benefits do typically "expire" at the end of the year. Dental insurance is not like most other insurances in that if you do not use your yearly benefits, they do not carry over in to the next year. It's a "use it or lose it" situation.
At this time of year with holidays around the corner, appointment times can be sometimes difficult to get. Remember, the procedures usually have to be finished before the end of the year to use this years benefits. We will do everything possible to get you in and utilize the benefits that you have already paid for, but we can not, and will not , change dates in treatment records. That is outright insurance fraud.
If there are procedures that you feel may fall into this category, we recommend that you set up appointments immediately. If you are not sure, call and set up an appointment so we can review your case and do what is best for you.
Melrose Family Dentistry

George A. Surabian DMD
Gabriel Schweier DMD and Staff

The Masonic Child ID Program (CHIP)

2010-09-07T22:44:00.001-04:00

This Sunday, September 12th, the Melrose Chamber of Commerce will be holding the 30th annual Victorian Fair. Please stop by the Melrose YMCA between 11:30am and 4pm to see the Drs and Staff of Melrose Family Dentistry who have volunteered their time to the CHIPS Program (Child ID Program). We will be making "Toothprints" of the children and the Melrose Police along with the Masons will be making fingerprint and video profiles. This is a great program that is simple and easy for children of all ages. We hope to see you Sunday!

Office Closed

2010-08-01T19:58:00.000-04:00

Our office will be closed Mon Aug 2 through Thurs Aug 5 for training for our new digital x ray and software program training. This is an exciting technology which not only reduces the amount of radiation a patient receives during x ray exam, but it also enhance images to make more thorough and accurate diagnoses.
During this training period, we will be available for any and all dental emergencies, as well as having phone coverage for appointment scheduling and questions. As always, please call us 24/7 any time you need us. We thank you for your years of friendship, loyalty and support.

Dr. George A. Surabian

Dr. Gabriel Schweier

and our great support staff

Cerec Pictures

2010-07-18T15:26:00.003-04:00

Valerie Francesconi

2010-07-01T09:48:00.000-04:00

July 1, 2010 is a very special day for Melrose Family Dentistry. Today is the 25th anniversary of one of the most caring and dedicated people we have ever known. Valerie Francesconi has been a hygienist in our practice for the past 25 years. Time sure can pass quickly. The dedication, friendship and loyalty that Val has shown towards our patients, staff and doctors goes above and beyond going the extra mile. Valerie has been a rock, and has been the foundation of our philosophy. The accolades are too many to even attempt...caring, loyal, skilled, talented. resourceful, loving, dependable, and most of all a cherished friend. I thank you Val, for many great years, for your support through the ups and downs, and for being some one that I value as a coworker and a friend. 25 more???

George A Surabian DMD

New Invisalign for Teens

2010-06-23T21:34:00.000-04:00

You no longer have to straighten your teeth the old-fashioned way, with metal braces. The Invisalign Teen™ system lets you do it the modern, hygienic way. Your new smile is created with the most innovative technology – a series of clear aligners that are custom-fit to your teeth.

Invisalign Teen™ really works. It helps correct a broad range of dental and orthodontic issues. You can get a confident smile without metal bands, brackets, or wires.

How Invisalign Treatment works

Here's a quick look at the main steps of your treatment:

• You’ll meet with your orthodontist for a consultation and to find out if you qualify.

• Your orthodontist will take pictures and impressions of your teeth.

• Those pictures and impressions are digitized. Then, your orthodontist can precisely plan your tooth movements from the beginning to the end of your treatment.

• Based on the treatment plan, aligners will be made to custom-fit your teeth. The number of aligners changes for each person.

• You'll wear your aligners about 20 to 22 hours everyday, except to eat, brush and floss, or go to a special event.

• Each aligner has a Blue Dot Wear Indicator, designed to show an estimation of wear-time. The dot is designed to fade to clear over a two-week period if you wear (20 to 22 hours everyday) your aligners properly.

• Approximately every two weeks, you’ll swap your old aligners for new ones. The aligners will gently and continuously move your teeth until they are in their final prescribed position.

Dr. Crohins Fabulous Portuguese Shrimp Bisque

2010-06-16T20:00:00.000-04:00

The winner of this year's March Madness Bake Off was Dr. Michele Crohin. Dr. Crohin is our staff Periodontist who specializes in treating gums defects and gum diseases. For those of you who have not met her, stop by some time to congratulate her. After 6 week of grueling competition, finicky judges, and hungry staff members, the final, winning entry is as follows:

Dr. Crohins Fabulous Portuguese Shrimp Bisque

4 (8oz) bottles clam juice or fish stock
1 lb fresh med shrimp
2 tbs olive oil or butter
1 large onion chopped
2 cloves garlic chopped
1 carrot chopped
2 tomatoes peeled and chopped
1/2 cup white wine
1 tbs
brandy or port wine
1/4 cup raw rice
salt and pepper
1 tbs fresh parsley chopped

1. Bring clam juice to boil, add shrimp and simmer until shrimp are pink

2. Remove shrimp to cool, reserve broth in a saute pan, cook onion, garlic, carrot, and tomatoes in 1 tbs of oil over mod. heat until onions turn transparent

3. Add vegetables, wine, brandy to reserved broth and bring to a boil.

4. Add rice, salt and pepper, cover and simmer. Meanwhile, shell the shrimp and slice into 1/'2" pieces

5. Reserve 1/4 of the shrimp, add the rest to the pot and simmer until rice is soft.

6. Puree the soup mixture in a blender or food processor.

7. Reheat soup, add remaining shrimp and oil.

8. Stir in parsley and serve.

Our New Video

2010-06-03T10:01:00.000-04:00

Check out our New Video

http://www.elocallink.tv/vp6/spon-fcsa_a.php?sponid=20057&type=wh&flver=10&brver=6#

2010-06-03T10:00:00.000-04:00

Our New Ivoclar Laser - The Odyssey Navigator

2010-06-02T08:37:00.000-04:00

The Odyssey Navigator Diode Laser from Ivoclar Vivadent, Inc. represents the latest diode laser technology available for soft tissue modification and preventive care. Featuring unique fiber management system and the newest innovation; a wireless power control, the Odyssey Navigator is the most efficient soft tissue laser in dentistry today.

Powering the design of the Odyssey Navigator Diode Laster is a passion for better dentistry made possible through the use of the most sophisticated, precise and minimally invasive technology available. The Odyssey Navigator Diode Laser now enables Melrose Family Dentistry to easily and safely perform many soft tissue procedures that we previously had to refer you to a specialist for. The Odyssey Navigator Diode Laser reduces post-operative healing time and fewer post-operative complications including less chance of infection. It performs minor surgical procedures and in addition, eliminates bacteria from the area at the same time. Stitches are rarely needed for laser wounds and many soft tissue procedures around the gum tissue can be completed without anesthesia for greater patient acceptance and comfort.

This Week's Recipe

2010-05-26T10:42:00.000-04:00

Amy's World Famous Antipasto Skewers

prosciutto
fresh mozzarella
tomatoes
fresh basil
roasted red peppers
wooden skewers
balsamic vimegar
olive oil
garlic salt and pepper

* Wrap prosciutto around pieces of mozzarella

* Alternate prosciutto wrapped cheese with fresh basil,tomatoes,
and red peppers on the skewers

*Mix balsamic vinegar w/ olive oil, garlic salt and pepper and drizzle on top

A refreshing treat for indoor or outdoor dining. Enjoy!

3rd Annual March Madness Bake Off Recipes

2010-05-19T09:12:00.000-04:00

Our first recipe was entered in the pasta category and was well received by the judges.

Karin's Pasta Asparagatus

3/4 lb spaghetti
2 lbs asparagus
4 cloves garlic minced
salt and pepper
6 slices of prosciutto (sliced in strips)
6 oz. fresh mozzarella-diced
basil leaves (fresh)
4 TB olive oil (+ extra for prosciutto)

1. cook asparagus for 3-4 mins. and cool in ice water.
When cooled, cut into 1 " pieces and set aside

2. Crisp prosciutto in olive oil and set aside

3. Cook pasta and keep 1 cup of pasta water

4. Heat olive oil in large skillet. Add garlic and saute for 30 seconds.
Add asparagus, salt and pepper. Add pasta, and if needed some pasta water.
Toss together. Add prosciutto, cheese and basil. Toss again.
Season to taste with salt and pepper.

5. ENJOY

Invisalign

2010-05-06T21:28:00.000-04:00

Invisalign is a series of clear, removable teeth aligners that both orthodontists and dentists use as an alternative to traditional metal dental braces.

Advantages

The most obvious advantage of the treatment is cosmetic: the aligners are completely transparent, therefore far more difficult to detect than traditional wire and bracket braces. This makes the method particularly popular among adults who want to straighten their teeth without the look of traditional metal braces, which are commonly worn by children and adolescents. In addition, the aligners are marketed as being more comfortable than braces. Due to the removable nature of the device, food can be consumed without the encumbrance of metallic braces.

Clinically, aligners avoid many of the side effects of traditional fixed appliances, for example the effects on the gums and supporting tissues. Fixed appliances are known to cause the roots of teeth to shorten for most patients, and demineralisation or tooth decay occurs in up to 50% of patients because they cannot be removed for eating and cleaning, and because they prevent accurate x-rays from being taken. Patients "graduate" to a new set of aligners in their treatment series approximately every two weeks. The aligners give less force per week and less pain than do fixed appliances (traditional metal braces). Fixed appliances are adjusted approximately every six weeks and apply greater forces.

Aligners should be removed to eat, drink, to clean the teeth, or to have them checked by the clinician. Because you remove the aligners, you are not limited to what you eat. (It is acceptable to wear aligners while drinking water.) Computerized treatment planning is compulsory as part of the Invisalign protocol. As with other forms of orthodontic treatments that incorporate a computerized plan, this allows the prospective patient to review the projected smile design, learn how long the treatment is likely to take, compare different plans, and make a more educated decision about whether or not to use Invisalign.

Invisalign treatments have been claimed to be quicker than traditional orthodontics. A large-scale study of 408 patients with traditional appliances in Indiana took an average of 35.92 months with a maximum of 96 months, while Invisalign takes between 12–18 months.

Treatment

An orthodontist begins by taking dental impressions, x-rays and photographs of the patient's teeth and sending them to Align Technology. The impressions are put through a CT scan from which a computer creates a three-dimensional model. Technicians then individualize the teeth in the computer model and move them to their final position as prescribed by the orthodontist. Custom software then simulates the movement of the teeth in stages. The orthodontist reviews the simulation online using Align Technology's ClinCheck via a web browser and approves or modifies the treatment. Once approved, a plastic resin aligner is manufactured for each stage of the computer simulation and shipped to the orthodontist.

'Attachments' are sometimes bonded to teeth that need to be "rotated" or moved more than other teeth. Patients can expect as many as thirteen attachments. They are tooth-colored and made of a glass-like substance.

'Reproximation' is a process by which the contacts between teeth are filed down to allow for a better fit. This may also be a part of treatment.

Average treatment time is about one year, again depending on the complexity of the treatment. Simple treatments (minor crowding, minor spacing) may be as short as twenty weeks—this is known as the "Invisalign Express" program. Although the aligners are removable, they must be worn at least 20 to 22 hours per day to avoid delaying the treatment process. If they are not worn consistently, treatment time will increase.

After the regular aligner or braces treatment is complete, retainers composed of a similar plastic material are usually required to be worn, at least at night.

Like other orthodontic systems, the patient has some flexibility. The final position of the teeth is not completely determined by the last aligner. If the patient wants to change the end position because the actual position is not optimal, new aligners are ordered, which are usually included in the originally quoted cost, called a 'Refinement.'

Introducing CEREC

2010-04-20T20:02:00.000-04:00

CEREC is a dental restoration product that allows a dental practitioner to produce an indirect ceramic dental restoration using a variety of computer assisted technologies, including 3D photography and CAD/CAM. With CEREC, teeth can be restored in a single sitting with the patient, rather than the multiple sittings required with earlier techniques. Additionally, with the latest software and hardware updates, crowns, veneers, onlays and inlays can be prepared, using different types of ceramic material.

Technology

The cavity preparation is first photographed and stored as a three dimensional digital model and proprietary software is then used to approximate the restoration shape using biogeneric comparisons to surrounding teeth. The practitioner then refines that model using 3D CAD software. When the model is complete a milling machine carves the actual restoration out of a ceramic block using diamond head cutters under computer control. When complete, the restoration is bonded to the tooth using a resin. CEREC is an acronym for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics.

Technique

The treating dentist prepares the tooth being restored either as a crown, inlay, onlay or veneer. The tooth is then coated with a white powder, imaged by a 3D imaging camera and uploaded to the CEREC computer. Using the proprietary CEREC software in various modes, a restoration can be designed to restore the tooth to its appropriate form and function. This data on this restoration is stored in a file and is sent via wireless serial transmission or direct wiring to a milling machine. The restoration can then be milled out of a solid ceramic or composite block. Milling time varies from as little as four minutes to as long as twenty depending on the complexity of the restoration and the age of the milling unit.

Advantages

1. Time savings. You usually only have to go one time, as opposed to two trips for a traditional crown. This also reduces the number of local anesthetic injections (shots) needed.
2. More conservation of tooth structure. Oftentimes a partial coverage restoration can be completed vs a full conventional crown.
3. Stronger porcelain. Milled ceramic is stronger than hand layered and pressed.
4. Aesthetics. Homogenous porcelain blends in better than other porcelains.
5. Natural. Ability to copy what was there previously can yield restorations that are duplicates of the pre-prepared tooth.

Call us for more information about CEREC. www.melrosefamilydentistry.com

Melrose Family Dentistry - Melrose, MA

2010-04-20T19:56:00.000-04:00