Dry Mouth Symptoms, Causes and Treatments

Dry Mouth Symptoms, Causes and Treatments

By Mina Levi, DDS, 07/02/2015

Many people suffer from dry mouth symptoms such as feeling thirsty all of the time or having a dry, sticky feeling in the mouth or throat. Dry mouth not only is uncomfortable, but it also increases your risk of tooth decay and gingivitis. There are many different reasons why a person may be experiencing dry mouth. In this week’s article, San Francisco dentist Mina Levi, DDS discusses dry mouth symptoms, causes and treatments.

Symptoms of Dry Mouth

1.       Dry feeling in the mouth

2.       Dry feeling in the throat

3.       Chronic thirst

4.       Sores in or around mouth

5.       Split skin at the corners of the mouth

6.       Burning or tingling sensation in the mouth

7.       Dry, red tongue

8.       Trouble speaking or eating

9.       Hoarseness/sore throat

10.   Bad breath

Possible Causes of Dry Mouth

1.       Side effect of certain medications such as those used to treat depression, anxiety, pain, allergies and asthma

2.       Side effect of certain diseases such as diabetes, anemia, HIV, and hypertension

3.       Side effect of medical treatments such as chemotherapy

4.       Dehydration

5.       Nerve damage in the head and/or neck area

6.       Lifestyle choices such as smoking or chewing tobacco

How to Treat Dry Mouth

The doctor may change the medication you are on if that is the culprit, or prescribe an oral since that helps to restore moisture in the mouth. You can also try:

1.       Brushing with fluoridated toothpaste

2.       Drinking plenty of water

3.       Using an over the counter saliva substitute

4.       Using a vaporizer to add moisture to your surrounding environment

5.       Breathing through your nose and not your mouth as often as possible

If you suffer from dry mouth and are concerned about your symptoms or treatment, visit Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi, DDS on the web at www.minalevidds.com or give us a call at (415) 513-5066.

Topics: San Francisco Dentist, dry mouth, thirst, chronic thirst, dry throat, sore throat, sore mouth, constant dry mouth, constant thirst, thirsty all the time, cracked lips, dry lips, dry sores, dry mouth sores, mouth sores

Why Does my Hygienist Recommend Fluoride Varnish?

By Mina Levi, DDS, 06/18/2015

When a patient comes in for their routine professional cleanings at the dental office of Mina Levi, DDS in San Francisco, it may be recommended that a fluoride varnish be applied to the teeth after the cleaning is complete. The term “fluoride” is a bit of a buzz word for many people and some patients have concerns about fluoride and why it is recommended that it be placed in their mouths. In this week’s article, San Francisco Dentist Mina Levi, DDS discusses fluoride varnish, safety information and why it may have been recommended.

What is fluoride varnish?

Fluoride varnish is a concentrated fluoride paste that is usually white and sticky and is applied to the surfaces of the teeth after the teeth have been cleaned. The paste adheres to the teeth for a few hours and then is washed away by brushing and flossing regularly at home.

What is fluoride varnish effective for treating?

Fluoride varnish releases sodium fluoride into the enamel surface and re-mineralizes areas of the enamel that have been eroded. It also prevents de-mineralization of the enamel, prevents decay/cavities, and reduces tooth sensitivity.

Why was fluoride varnish recommended for me?

Fluoride varnish may have been recommended to you for a number of reasons in one of two categories: preventative or treatment. If you are considered at a “high risk” for dental decay, the fluoride varnish may be recommended to prevent decay and stop cavities from forming. If you are not a high risk, fluoride varnish may be applied to prevent de-mineralization and strengthen the enamel. Patients with teeth sensitivity have fluoride varnish recommended re-mineralizing the area and reduce the sensitivity. Some patients have areas of the teeth that have de-mineralized or have eroded away, leaving the tooth more vulnerable to decay and sensitivity. In this case, fluoride varnish will be recommended to re-mineralize the area.

Is fluoride varnish safe for me?

The short answer is yes. Fluoride is safe and effective in the dosages given at the dental office. The lethal dose of fluoride for most adult humans is 5 grams to 10 grams (depending on size of the person). The dosage given at one sitting at the dental office is about .4 grams.  It would take ingesting 12 and a half fluoride varnish doses in one sitting to be at the minimum concentration to be lethal.

If you have further questions about fluoride varnish or why you may need it, visit San Francisco dentist Mina Levi, DDS on the web at www.minalevidds.com or give us a call at (415) 513-5066.

Topics: San Francisco Dentist, fluoride varnish, fluoride, varnish, fluoride paste, fluoride toothpaste, dental cleanings, dental office, dental office San Francisco, fluoride safety, fluoride safety facts, why I need fluoride 

How Often Should my Dentist take X-Rays?

How Often Should my Dentist take X-Rays?

By Mina Levi, DDS, 06/11/2015

Many of our patients at the dental office of San Francisco Dentist Mina Levi, DDS are concerned and have questions about the dental digital x-rays we take for them periodically. Some questions include: ‘how much radiation will the x-rays emit?’, ‘how often should dental x-rays be taken?’ and ‘why do we need to take x-rays?’ In this week’s article, Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi, DDS discusses why we need to take digital x-rays and how often they should be taken.

What are digital dental x-rays?

Dental x-rays are images of the internal structure of the teeth using electromagnetic radiation. With digital x-rays, traditional photographic film is not needed and the dentist can see the images immediately without having to develop film. Another advantage to digital x-rays is that there is less radiation emitted than traditional x-rays.

How much radiation is emitted by digital x-rays?

An estimated 1% of cancer cases may be associated with medical/dental radiation. Medical radiation is about 8 times more than dental. One-time dose in uSv can cause:

· 100,000 - Thyroid Cancer

· 250,000 - Skin Cancer

3D dental x-ray doses are about 0.002% of this amount. The following table describes radiation sources and the effective dose exposure:

Radiation Source	Effective Dose Exposure (uSv, ICRP 2007)
Average Daily Background Exposure (US)	8.5
Dental Bitewing X-Ray, Digital/F-film	9
Average Daily Total Exposure (US)	17
Dental Bitewing X-Ray, D-Speed Film	22
One Hour of High-Altitude Air Flight	50
X-Ray - Chest	100
X-Ray - Skull	100
Dental FMX (18), Digital X-Ray	171
Promax CBCT, Focus Area	192
Promax CBCT, Lower Skull	260
Promax CBCT, Full Skull	324
Dental FMX, D-Speed Film	388
X-Ray - Mammogram	420
X-Ray - Hip	700
CT - Head	2,000
X-Ray - Lumbar Spine	6,000
X-Ray - Abdomen	7,000
CT - Chest	7,000
CT - Abdomen	10,000
CT- Cardiac	20,000

Why do we need to take digital x-rays?

Digital x-rays are taken because they show the dentist the condition of your teeth and roots beyond what the naked eye can see. These images can help the dentist determine the degree of periodontal (gum) disease, can show abscesses or abnormal growths, can show the beginning of or position of dental decay or cavities and much more. If the cavity, infection or other issue is not visible in the mouth, it is almost impossible for the dentist to make a diagnosis without x-rays.

How often should my dentist take digital x-rays?

The frequency at which your San Francisco dentist takes digital x-rays depends on your health history and dental health needs. Usually, a small set of about six x-rays (4 BW, 2PAs) is taken once per year with your routine exam to monitor growth or lack of growth of dental decay and make sure that no new areas of decay have emerged. A full set of about eighteen x-rays (FMX) is taken once every three to five years for a more thorough picture of the teeth and jaw.

If you have questions regarding digital dental x-rays or when you should be getting them taken, visit Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi, DDS on the web at www.minalevidds.com or give us a call at (415) 513-5066.

Topics: San Francisco Dentist, x-rays, digital x-rays, dentist, dentist office, dental x-rays, exam x-rays, bitewings, full series of x-rays, x-ray radiation, dental x-ray radiation, digital dental radiation, how often do I need x-rays, x-rays dentist, digital x-rays dentist, digital x-rays San Francisco 

The Scoop on Invisalign

The Scoop on Invisalign

By Mina Levi, DDS, 06/04/2015

When it comes to straightening your teeth, one of the best courses of treatment is Invisalign clear aligners. Many people have heard about the Invisalign product or are at least familiar with the Invisalign brand, but some are not aware of the benefits of this type of orthodontic treatment, what it looks like, how much it costs, or what it even does. In this week’s article, San Francisco dentist Mina Levi, DDS breaks down Invisalign clear aligner treatment and answers questions you may have about straightening your teeth and getting your dream smile!

What is Invisalign?

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 wear over your teeth. Wearing the aligners will gradually and gently shift your teeth into place, based on the exact movements your dentist or orthodontist plans out for you. There are no metal brackets to attach and no wires to tighten. You just pop in a new set of aligners approximately every two weeks, until your treatment is complete. You’ll achieve a great smile with little interference in your daily life. The best part about the whole process is that most people won't even know you're straightening your teeth.

What do Invisalign trays look like?

Invisalign aligners are made out of a clear, plastic material that is molded to your teeth, as you can see in the image below:

The Invisalign Process:

Step One: Talk to Dr. Mina Levi, a San Francisco Invisalign Preferred Provider

Invisalign Dentist San Francisco Dr. Mina Levi has been a preferred provider with Invisalign for over six years, and has treated many different types of cases with Invisalign. During your initial Invisalign consultation, she will discuss your case with you and determine if you are a good candidate for Invisalign. Dr. Levi will talk through the Invisalign treatment and answer any questions you may have about the process, costs, insurance, or any other concerns. You and Dr. Levi will determine the best course of treatment for you together.

Step Two: Create a 3D Image of Your Teeth

Dr. Levi and her team will take digital x-rays, photographs, and impressions of your teeth, which Invisalign will use to create a three-dimensional image of your teeth. Dr. Levi will use this image to map out your treatment plan and will be able to show you what your teeth will look like after every step of your Invisalign treatment.

Step Three: Receive Your Clear Aligners

Based on your individualized treatment plan, a series of clear custom-made aligners will be made just for you. Wear the plastic aligners throughout the day, and take them out to eat, drink, brush your teeth and floss. As you continue to wear each set of aligners, your teeth will gradually move into place. These aligners are clear and almost invisible, so most people will not even know you are wearing them.

Step Four: Wear a New Set of Aligners Every 2 Weeks

After two weeks of wearing one set of aligners, you will move onto the next step and then wear that set for another two weeks. To monitor your progress, you will have appointments set up with Dr. Levi about every six weeks. With each set of aligners that you go through, you are one step closer to your dream smile!

Step Five: Reveal Your New Smile

For most adults, treatment typically takes about a year although each individual case is different. The best way to ensure that treatment goes smoothly and as quickly as possible, make sure to wear the aligners about 22 hours a day. Then, you will be ready to show the world the smile you've always wanted.

Treatable cases:

Many different types of cases are treatable with Invisalign, the following are some of the main conditions that are treated:

1. Gapped teeth: Gaps between teeth can occur with abnormal continued growth of the jawbone. Missing teeth can also cause the surrounding teeth to shift due to the extra space, creating gaps in your teeth. Spacing issues and gaps between teeth can lead to gum problems (due to lack of protection by the teeth), periodontal pockets and increased risk of periodontal disease.

2. Overbite: What people commonly refer to as an "overbite" is known to dental professionals as "overjet." It occurs when the upper teeth bite over the lower teeth. It's typically caused by genetics, bad oral habits, or overdevelopment of the bone that supports the teeth. This can lead to gum problems or irritation, and/or wear on the lower teeth, and can cause painful jaw and joint problems.

3. Underbite: Underbite can occur when the lower teeth protrude past the front teeth. It's usually caused by undergrowth of the upper jaw, overgrowth of the lower jaw, or both. It can also be caused by missing upper teeth. This can prevent the normal function of front teeth or molars, which can lead to tooth wear. It can also cause painful jaw and joint problems.

4. Open Bite: Open bite often occurs when some teeth are unable to make physical contact with the opposing teeth for a proper bite. Most often caused by a genetic abnormal jaw structure or excessive thumb-sucking, an open bite can cause poor or painful chewing, and even speech impairment. It can also lead to greater issues like thermo-mandibular joint disorder (TMJ).

5. Crowding: Teeth crowding occurs when there is simply a lack of room within your jaw for all of your teeth to fit normally. When left untreated, overly crowded teeth can get worse over time, and result in severely crooked teeth. This crowding can lead to plaque accumulation, tooth decay and an increased chance of gum disease.

6. Crossbite: Crossbite can occur when the upper and lower jaws are both misaligned. It causes one or more upper teeth to bite on the inside of the lower teeth, and can happen on both the front and the sides of the mouth. This can cause wear of the teeth, gum disease and bone loss.

Is Invisalign a good fit for you? Find out! Visit Invisalign Preferred Provider Mina Levi, DDS on the web at www.minalevidds.com or give us a call at (415) 513-5066 to schedule a consultation today!

Topics: Invisalign Dentist San Francisco, San Francisco Dentist, Invisalign, Clear aligners, orthodontics, Invisalign clear aligners, Invisalign invisible aligners, straight teeth, straightening teeth, braces, metal braces, clear braces, invisable braces, Invisalign San Francisco

Tobacco and Your Mouth

 Tobacco and Your Mouth

 By Mina Levi, DDS, 05/28/2015

It is common knowledge that smoking and other tobacco use causes health problems such as lung cancer. However, not many people are aware of the dental andoral health implications of tobacco use such as cigarettes, chewing tobacco, cigars, and smokeless tobacco. In this week’s article, San Francisco dentist Mina Levi,DDS talks about dental and oral health concerns that are affected by tobacco use.

What are the dental problems that are caused by tobacco use?

Using tobacco:

· Increases risk of oral cancer – a disease that rapidly progresses and is often not diagnosed until the later stages III and IV, causing it to have a high death rate. See more about oral cancer here.

· Increases risk of gum disease, which is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults in the United States today.

· Causes bad breath.

· Causes buildup of tartar or dental plaque on the teeth, which if not cleaned professionally will cause tooth decay.

· Causes staining on the teeth causing them to turn yellow or brown in color and cannot be cleaned with a regular toothbrush – staining will need to be removed at a San Francisco dental office.

· Causes damage to gum tissue and causes receding gums, which leaves the roots of the teeth exposed to “the elements”. This increases sensitivity and also increases the risk of tooth decay.

· Slows down gum healing, so if you have an oral surgery procedure done or you cut your gums, the healing time will slow down and an infection can occur more easily.

Quitting

Quitting tobacco use is essential in ensuring future and present health and can provide long term health benefits. There are many different ways to quit using tobacco, such as:

· “Cold turkey”: quitting all tobacco use without the help of any chemical or medical remedy

· Nicotine patches/gum: nicotine patches and gum provide the tobacco user with small amounts of nicotine which is the addictive property in tobacco products. This can help reduce cravings for cigarettes and other tobacco products as the nicotine is being replaced. However, the use of the gum and patches will also need to cease eventually because nicotine can have negative health implications as well.

· Psychotherapy: therapy with a psychologist or psychiatrist can help a person mentally achieve overcoming the addiction and can provide self-control strategies. Therapy is also good for your overall mental well being and should be included in your regular health program.

If you have questions about how tobacco products such as cigarettes and chewing tobacco can affect your teeth and mouth, or if you have concerns about quitting tobacco use, visit Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi, DDS on the web at www.minalevidds.com or give us a call at (415) 513-5066.

Topics: Dentist San Francisco, cigarettes, tobacco, tobacco use, cigarette use, smoking, smoking cigarettes, smoker, smoking and mouth, chewing tobacco, chewing, tobacco effects, teeth tobacco effects, mouth tobacco effects, oral cancer, gum disease from smoking, gum disease, gum recession, teeth staining, cigarette staining, tobacco staining, tobacco teeth staining, hookah, hookah tobacco, cigars, cigar tobacco, cancer, throat cancer

Dental Insurance: What are the Differences between HMO and PPO Plans?

Dental Insurance: What are the Differences between HMO and PPO Plans?

By Mina Levi, DDS, 05/21/2015

One of the most common questions we get asked here at the office of dentist Mina Levi, DDS in San Francisco is “what is the difference between choosing an HMO dental plan and a PPO dental plan?” along with “are you an in-network provider?” Many people who have dental insurance or are in the market for dental insurance have concerns and/or are confused about different plan aspects and sometimes can end up locked in with a plan that isn’t a good fit for them. Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi, DDS clears up some of the dental insurance lingo and answers some questions in this week’s article.

What is an annual maximum?

Most dental insurance plans limit the amount that they will pay out for services per year. The average annual maximum in our experience is around $1500. This means that after that annual maximum has been paid out for the year, any services rendered after that will be an out-of-pocket expense for the patient until the new year comes and the annual maximum rolls back over.

What is an in-network provider?

Dental insurance companies have contracts with certain dentists in your area. This means that the dentist has agreed to see patients who have this insurance plan and only charge the fees for services as lined out in the contract. This means that when you see an in-network provider with your insurance, the services you receive will be charged at a “discounted” in-network rate. So even when you are maxed out of your dental insurance yearly maximum and all services are out-of-pocket, all services will be at this same discounted rate.

What is an HMO plan?

HMO stands for Health Maintenance Organization and this kind of plan limits subscribers to choosing a dental care provider that is an in-network provider only. The patient must choose or is assigned a pre-approved dentist and if the patient seeks treatment elsewhere, the dental bills will not be covered at all.

                Pros: More affordable

                Cons: No freedom of choice, limited access to dental providers

What is a PPO plan?

PPO stands for Preferred Provider Organization and offers flexibility for subscribers when choosing dental providers. A PPO dental plan will allow the patient to choose an in-network provider or an out-of-network provider, but will pay more or a higher percentage for an in-network provider.

                Pros: Freedom of choice, wider range of providers

                Cons: More expensive

If you have more questions about dental insurance, PPO plans or HMO plans, visit Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi, DDS on the web at www.minalevidds.com or give us a call at (415) 513-5066.

Topics: Dentist San Francisco, dental insurance, insurance, insurance plans, dental insurance plans, dental PPO, dental HMO, HMO plan, HMO insurance plan, PPO, PPO insurance plan, dental PPO, PPO plan

Breaking Down Flossing: A Three Part Series #3

Breaking Down Flossing: A 3 Part Series #3

By Mina Levi, DDS, 05/07/2015

In the dental office of Mina Levi, DDS, we highly recommend brushing twice per day and flossing at least once per day. We recommend a variety of products, including Listerine’s woven or “Gum Care” floss and the Waterpik water flosser. It can be unclear to many people what exactly each type of flossing is and the pros and cons of all of them, so in this 3-series article,Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi, DDS breaks down three flossing options: traditional dental floss, the Waterpik water flosser, and the Phillip’s airfloss flosser.

Week 3: AirFloss

What is it?

AirFloss is a device by Philips to remove plaque biofilm from between the teeth. It uses a rapid burst of air and water droplets to disrupt the biofilm from between the teeth. It is called “miroburst technology.”

How do I use it?

Direct the tip of the AirFloss to the spaces between the teeth. Once you have it in place, click on it for the microburst to remove the plaque. Then repeat this point-and-click method of cleaning between all teeth, which is a bit similar to the point-and-click feel of a computer mouse.

Pros:

1.  Is portable

2.  Good for people whose gums bleed with regular flossing

3.  Effective in removing plaque from tooth surfaces

Cons:

1.       More expensive than floss and the Waterpik

2.       Can cause pain in the gums

We have now discussed three flossing options: traditional dental floss, the Waterpik water flosser, and the Phillips AirFloss. Which one is your preference? If you have questions about flossing or water flossing, visit San Francisco Dentist Mina Levi, DDS on the web at www.minalevidds.com or give us a call at (415) 513-5066.

Topics: Dentist San Francisco, water flosser, waterpik, flossing, floss, dental floss, dental waterpik, water between the teeth, periodontitis, gingivitis, regular flossing, regular water flossing,gum disease, using water to floss, water, oral health, floss replacement, supplemental flossing, healthy gums, recommend waterpik, dental recommendations, brushing, toothbrushing