Xylitol is a natural sugar substitute that is shown to reduce the risk of caries along with other health benefits including having a much lower glycemic index and calorie count then sugar.  We are now commonly suggesting our patients to be adding xylitol to their daily oral hygiene routine as there is clinical research that supports its use. It is recommended to get the health benefits of xylitol we need at least 5 grams of xylitol and 5 exposures throughout the day.  Xyltiol is available in: Chewing gum, Mints, Candies, Chocolate, Jelly, Sweeteners, Toothpastes, Mouthrinses, and Lozenges!

•  www.nuvorain.com (lozenges)
•  www.drjohns.com (candies, xylitol sweetener, chocolates, gum)
• www.xlear.com (gum, sweetener, candies, toothpaste, mouthrinse)
• www.carifree.com (gum, toothpaste, mouthrinse) 

•            Make sure to look at the label- xylitol should be the first sugar substitute listed, if not there is probably a very low concentration. 
•       Keep a pack of gum in your car and chew a piece to and from work.
•            Add a xylitol sweetener packet to a bottle of water- now you have a Cavity Fighting drink that can help with your sweet tooth!  Sip on this throughout the day.
•       Use these sugar substitutes in your daily cup of coffee to turn that acidic drink to a tooth strengthening liquid! 

•  Xylitol can cause upset stomach if taken in excess- this varies with individuals.  Clinical studies show levels in excess of 15g but individuals may vary.
• All dogs and other pets should not have access to these products as it can cause death of these animals.  They do not process the enzymes needed to process this sugar. 

Labels: Dentistry, East Lansing, Health, Lansing, Xylitol

As practice that focuses on health promotion and reduction of disease we see Invisalign as an additional service we can offer our patients to help you reach your goals.   As a dentist I hear our hygienists and myself say something to the effect of “well, there was a lot of plaque build-up on those teeth because they are so hard to clean because of all the crowding.”  We tend to give you a “pass” because of your God given anatomy.  Unfortunately, the progression of gum disease and the bacteria themselves don’t give you this same pass.  The research shows that areas of crowding do accumulate not only more- but more harmful bacteria, along with seeing faster progression of gum disease.  Invisalign is a tool to help with areas of crowding to allow for better cleansability and improve your oral health.

• You notice your teeth are crowded and difficult to keep clean even with a good oral hygiene routine.
• Your hygienist or dentist has previously talked to you about crowding of your teeth making brushing and flossing more difficult.
• You notice spacing in your front teeth that you are unhappy with.
• You are unhappy with your smile. 
• You are interested in learning what can be done with this clear removable retainer.

Labels: Dentist, Dentistry, East Lansing, Invisalign, Lansing

Our exam includes assessing all your current and future risks.  We believe in a system of co-discovery- where you the patient are involved in your treatment.  We also hope to work with you to have you create health goals for the future.  With the knowledge of your risks and with the proper treatment and prevention strategies we know we can get you to a point where you need little to no dentistry.   We will offer you individualized information and resources to help you reach these goals. 

We care about your overall heath.  What we now understand more then ever is the direct connection between your oral health and systemic or bodily health.  The connections between oral disease and heart disease, diabetes, pregnancy complications, and others are become more clear every day (these will be further explored in future blogs).  Because of the information and research about these mouth/body connections it becomes part of our practice to fully review your medical history and address any of these conditions. 

Labels: Dentist, Dentistry, East Lansing, Health, Healthcare, Lansing, Smile