June 3rd, 2015
Teeth are designed to fit together with the top and bottom teeth touching only when chewing and very briefly during swallowing. This actually only adds up to about 6 minutes a day! So, you can imagine if your teeth are clenched together or grinding against each other all day, your jaw joint (the TMJ) and teeth are doing the equivalent of a super marathon each day! Clenching and grinding puts a lot of stress on your teeth, jaw muscles and jaw joint which can cause eventual fractures of teeth, recession of gums, TMJ symptoms and headaches. Frequent grinders can also expect their tooth enamel to wear away 6 times faster thann those who don't grind.
Possible treatment options include custom made night guards by your dentist, special exercises or medications in some cases. If you suspect that you are grinding your teeth or clenching excessively, it is best to seek the opinion of your general dentist or Dr. Hughes to customize a treatment plan right for you.
April 6th, 2015
As the nation prepares to observe the 16th Oral Caner Awareness Month this April, the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, the American Academy of Oral Medicine, the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the American Dental Association and the American Dental Hygienists' Association have joined the Oral Cancer Foundation in its campaign to raise awareness of this silent killer.
Be mindful of symptoms
The mouth is one of your body's most important early warning systems. Between dental visits, it is importance that you be aware of the following signs and symptoms, and see a dental professional if they do not improve or disappear after two to three weeks:
- A sore, or soreness or irritation that doesn't go away
- Red or white patches, or pain, tenderness, or numbness in mouth or lips
- Lumps, thickening tissues, rough spots, crusty or eroded areas
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving your jaw or tongue
- A change in the way your teeth fit together when you close your mouth
Factors that may increase your risk of oral cancer
Research has identified a number of factors that may contribute to the development of oral cancer. Historically, those at an especially high risk have been heavy alcohol drinkers and smokers older than age 50, but today the cancer also is occurring more frequently in younger, non smoking people. The human papillomavirus 16 (HPV) is related to the increasing incidence of oropharyngeal cancer (most commonly involving tonsillar tissue, including the base of the tongue) in the younger population.
If you have never had an oral cancer examination, there is no better time to schedule one than during Oral Cancer Awareness Month in April! When you do, be sure to ask that this examination be made routine at all your future dental checkups.
October 23rd, 2013
Adult Orthodontic Patients Highly Satisfied with Treatment Outcomes: A survey of adult orthodontic patients, conducted recently for the AAO in conjunction with National Orthodontic Health Month, indicates high satisfaction with treatment results. Seventy-five percent of adults surveyed reported improvements in career or personal relationships, which they attributed to their improved post-orthodontic treatment smiles. Citing newfound self-confidence, 92 percent of survey respondents say they would recommend orthodontic treatment to other adults. To read more, visit the AAO site below!
http://www.mylifemysmile.org/sites/default/files/APPROVED 
January 1st, 2013
Many adults ask the question, "Am I too old for braces?" and the answer is absolutely not! Orthodontic treatment for adults is becoming more and more common. In fact, the number of adults getting braces has actually climbed since the '90s and many offices now have 25% adults receiving orthodontic treatment! Adults are realizing that orthodontic treatment is not just for kids, and can help improve the esthetics of the smile and health of the mouth at any age. In a society where appearance matters and can help make the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing wisely to invest in orthodontic treatment.
Some of the most common reasons our adult patients come to us considering orthodontic treatment include:
• Teeth that are crowded or spaced apart
•Teeth have shifted over the years because a retainer was not worn
• Pain or pressure from crooked teeth or a misaligned jaw
As an adult patient, we recognize that you have different needs than our younger patients, and we will work with you to ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment and that your needs are met with understanding and respect from us.
If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, we would love to have you visit us for a consultation. We understand you have a busy schedule, therefore our office offers evening and Saturday appointments in order to find a time that is convenient for you. Please give our office a call to schedule your appointment with Dr. Hughes today! Make 2013 a better, brighter, healthier New Year.
