Dr. Berard's Doctor Blog

Denture Care

2012-01-17T13:08:00.000-08:00

     Dentures are a vital part of the every day lives of many adults. Often referred to as false teeth or a plate, dentures help give a more youthful appearance to those who have no teeth and help with speach and chewing food as well.   A complete denture replaces all the teeth on either the top or bottom or both. A partial denture replaces missing teeth with some teeth remaining in the mouth.

     Dentures need to be cared for as you should teeth. They should be rinsed after eating if you are not able to brush them. Using a soft bristle brush with denture cleaner will help preserve the denture and keep it in the best condition possible. You may use a mild hand or dish soap to clean your denture, however, avoid using toothpaste and other household cleansers as they may be too abrasive. This can cause small scratches in the tooth or acrylic material allowing bacteria to become trapped.

     Many people choose to wear their denture or partial all day and then take them out at bed time. That is a good idea as it gives the tissue inside of the mouth a chance to "breathe". Continue to brush the gums, tongue and roof of your mouth every day with a soft bristled brush and a mild toothpaste if you wish.  When you remove the denture make sure that you store it in a container with water to avoid drying the denture out. Also remember that dogs love to chew on dentures so if you live with a Rex, Rover or Fido make sure that you are storing it up out of their reach as well.

     Many people with dentures are under the false impression that once they have dentures there is no need to return to the dentist, however, it should still be a very important part of your life. Your jaw bones and gums can shrink up to 1/32 of an inch per year when your teeth are missing. You should plan on having your dentures and oral tissues evaluated once a year and your dentist should do an oral cancer screening, checking the mouth for sores and bumps that should not be there. This yearly exam will let us know when relining or rebasing your denture is necessary. Wearing ill-fitting dentures for too long without refitting can cause severe bone loss and very serious oral disease. Even dentures that "fit" comfortably need to be evaluated and replaced, usually after 5-10 years.                                              Smiles, Holly

Suffering from a Cracked Tooth?

2011-11-22T12:03:00.000-08:00

You may have a very common problem in your mouth!

Teeth may crack when subjected to the stress of chewing hard foods or ice or by biting on an unexpected hard object. Teeth with or without restorations may exhibit this problem, but teeth restored with typical "silver" alloy restorations are the most susceptible.

Symptoms and Signs of Cracked-Tooth Syndrome may include the following:

PAIN ON CHEWING
PAIN ON COLD AIR APPLICATION
UNSOLICITED PAIN ( USUALLY LEAKAGE OF SUGAR INTO TOOTH CRACK)
NO X-RAY EVIDENCE OF PROBLEM
EASY VERIFICATION OF CRACK WHEN TOOTH IS PREPARED FOR RESTORATION

Treatment of Cracked Teeth:

1. Simple Crack: The majority of cracked teeth (about 9 out of 10) can be treated by placement of a simple crown (cap) on the tooth. When the tooth is prepared for the crown and a temporary restoration is placed your symptoms usually leave immediately. If this is the case with your tooth we will place the final crown at your next appointment.

2. Complex Crack: Occasionally, (about 1 out of 10) the tooth cracks into the pulp (nerve) of the tooth. If the pain persists after placement of the temporary crown, you may have a crack into the nerve of the affected tooth. This tooth may then require root canal therapy before the final crown is placed. On occassion a tooth may crack or fracture to the point where it is no longer able to be saved and will have to be removed. That is why it is so important to see the dentist on a regular basis.

Please be sure to visit us if you are showing any of the above listed symptons.

MI Paste is HERE!

2011-11-08T08:59:00.000-08:00

We are so excited to tell you about MI Paste

and MI Paste PlusTM.!

This special tooth "conditioner" is a blend of calcium and phosphate that restores teeth suffering from acid erosion. MI Paste can be applied in the office or at home. There are many benefits to using MI paste including preventing and reversing white spots (often from ortho), reducing tooth erosion, and relieving dry mouth. Many people use MI Paste to relieve tooth sensitivity caused by exposed roots , tooth whitening and cavities.

Hundreds of Medications that we take every day have a listed side effect of "dry mouth".

MI Paste helps relieve dry mouth by restoring a "normal feeling" of saliva to the teeth and gums.

If you are taking drugs to treat cancer or are receiving chemotherapy or head and neck radiation, you may be suffering from dry mouth. In addition, nausea associated with chemotherapy can result in stomach acid being present in the mouth. This can lead to dental erosion and decay.

Talk with any one of our ENVISION Dental Team members about how you can start protecting and healing your teeth.

No more flossing excuses!

2011-11-01T06:56:00.000-07:00

There are many excuses I've heard over the years why people do not floss. All of which are not hurting anyone but the individual giving the excuse. The bottom line is if you do not floss on a regular basis (at least every 24 hours) you leave food debris and bacteria in between your teeth that your toothbrush can't reach. Would you leave food out on your kitchen counter for a couple of days and then pack your lunch? Yikes! The reality is bacteria are living, breathing and moving organisms around your teeth. Flossing breaks up this pesty party going on in your mouth. So, all the talk you hear at your dental appointment about the importance of flossing is to give you the inside scoop we already know. Maintain a healthy diet, good overall health, regular dental visits, and toothbrushing and flossing after meals will give you the confidence you need for your next dental appointment. No excuses! -Lynne.

Nutrition and your Dental Health

2011-08-02T06:47:00.000-07:00

While most of us know that what we eat has an effect on our body, not everyone realizes that food and drink also have a MAJOR effect on our teeth and oral health and especially on the development of tooth decay. This means that many of the things we eat are actually causing us to get cavities, but it also means that there are plenty of foods out there that actually help make teeth stronger and less prone to developing decay.

Take for example the loving mom who wants to encourage the little ones to have a healthy snack. She offers some dried fruit, maybe in the form of raisins, pineapple or cherries. While these do have health benefits they are also sticky foods that become lodged in the grooves of the teeth. The sugars contained in these foods keep acid production going and if repeated regularly can lead to tooth decay. Another common snack food for toddlers and young children are gummie snacks or fruit snacks. Because these are sticky they are also very common culprits for causing tooth decay.

Carbohydrates are also converted to sugars as they sit in the grooves of teeth and in between teeth causing the teeth to become vulnerable to attack by acids. Common snacks like crackers and cereal need to be followed by flossing and brushing to help prevent cavities from forming. We have to be aware of how long we are leaving residue from foods on our teeth and allowing decay causing bacteria to attack the teeth. It is a good idea to limit the eating of sugar containing food items to mealtimes only. The flow of saliva is increased at mealtimes and helps to neutralize acids more quickly. Saliva circulates in the mouth and is normally capable of "rinsing" acids from the teeth.

Juice, soda and the ever popular sports drinks are some of the most common causes of decay in teens and young adults alike. These drinks are high in sugar content and/or acid content and are commonly sipped all day long. Sipping these drinks throughout the day does not allow the body to naturally protect itself by removing the acid from the teeth with saliva. The saliva is constantly being replaced with the sports drink soda or juice leaving the teeth vulnerable. These drinks are best to be consumed with a meal or in a short time frame so that the saliva can protect the teeth as intended. It helps to follow these drinks with a swish of water to rinse some of the acid from your teeth.

We also need to use some caution in daily consumption of acidic fruits like grapefruit, lemons and limes. These foods can cause erosion of tooth enamel when consumed on a regular basis. Avoid sucking on lemon and lime slices as they have a very high acid content.

So you're probably beginning to wonder what in the world you can eat that is not going to be harmful to the teeth and I do have some answers for that! Foods that are rich in Vitamins A, C and D are vital to healthy teeth and gums. Vitamin A has been linked to the healthy formation of teeth and skin. It also contains antioxidants that protect the body from free radicals which cause disease. Vitamin D forms after being exposed to sunshine and is found in food sources as well. It promotes calcium absorption which is essential for strong teeth and bones. Vitamin C promotes healthy teeth and gums, boosts the immune system and is also an antioxidant.

Take a look at the list of Vitamin rich foods below and keep in mind that what we eat DOES affect you and your health.

The BEST foods for healthy teeth are cheeses, chicken, nuts and milk!!! And WATER, WATER, WATER.

Vitamin A Foods * Liver, sweet potatoes, carrots, mango, spinach, cantaloupe, mozzarella cheese, egg yolks and milk.

Vitamin C Foods * Red and green hot chili peppers, guava, bell peppers, herbs like thyme and parsley, dark leafy greens like kale, mustard and garden cress, broccoli, brussel sprouts, kiwi fruit, papaya, oranges, clementines/tangerines and strawberries.

Vitamin D Foods (Fat Soluable - needs to be eaten with fats to absorb) * Cod liver oil, Fish with raw Atlantic Herring providing the most vitamin D, fortified cereals, oysters, cavier, fortified tofu and soy milk, salami, ham and sausages, fortified dairy, eggs and mushrooms.

Healthy Gums, Healthy You!

2011-07-12T07:11:00.000-07:00

     Gingivitis begins 48 hours after you brush. If you do not remove all of the plaque and food debris from your teeth bacteria begins a destructive path in you gums.

You body's immune system, fighting with the bacteria in your gums, starts to destroy the support system of your teeth. Your teeth are supported in your mouth by bone and connective tissue. The connective tissue will deteriorate first, then the bone with start to deteriorate until the teeth become loose and have to be taken out. This process is called periodontal disease. Periodontal disease not only causes tooth loss but also increases the risk for heart disease, uncontrolled diabetes, endocarditis, upper respiratory infections, and contributes to decreased kidney function.

    Your Dentist and Hygienist can keep you informed of any signs or symptoms you may have so that you can receive the proper treatment. Preventative dental care and avoiding smoking are the best ways to keep from getting this serious disease.

Your Hygienist, Lynne

Say Goodbye to "Silver" Fillings?

2011-06-23T09:25:00.000-07:00

To date there are millions of people around the world who have or had "silver" fillings placed in a tooth because of a cavity. The word silver is actually a bit misleading. When we speak of a silver filling it does not mean that the filling is made of silver, but more accurately it is silver in color. In truth these fillings are actually comprised of up to 50% liquid mercury combined with a powder mixture containing zinc, copper, tin, silver and other metals. This combination of materials is an amalgam filling. Over time these fillings can turn black in color and cause a multitude of problems.

The debate is still on as to whether or not silver amalgam is a good material to restore a tooth with and if it is a safe material. Many dental and health professionals believe that amalgam is a poor choice and just because it was the only option for restoring teeth for many years does not mean that it is the best method to use today. Over the years other products have been researched and developed that are far better options for tooth restoration. An amalgam "silver" filling is not an aesthetically pleasing way to restore a tooth and can lead to staining of the teeth. When preparing a tooth for this type of filling healthy tooth structure must be removed in order to make space for the silver filling. In addition amalgam fillings expand and contract with hot and cold temperatures causing the tooth to expand and contract and over years of eating and chewing leaking and cracks will occur. Leaking means that space has developed between the filling and tooth structure and bacteria becomes trapped in this area. This leads to further tooth decay which requires more tooth structure to be removed which further weakens the tooth.

Often a tooth will become cracked because of the excessive pressure placed upon it from the amalgam filling. When this occurs a composite or porcelain filling may be used to correct the issue if the crack is small, however, for larger cracks a crown may be needed to prevent further damage to the tooth. If the crack is deep a root canal may also be needed to save the tooth. In some cases a tooth will need to be removed because of a fracture and replacing the missing tooth can be costly.

Another major argument over amalgam fillings is health related. Some experts say that amalgam fillings are not proven to be harmful to patients, however, these same experts also say that there is no proof that they are safe either. The FDA has been forced to ammend their status that these fillings are completely safe to: "Dental amalgam contains elemental mercury. It releases low levels of mercury vapor that can be inhaled. High levels of mercury vapor exposure are associated with adverse effects in the brain and the kidneys". The information then goes on to argue that amalgam fillings are safe for children over 6 and adults. And that there is limited clinical studies on dental fillings and their toxicity to children and developing fetuses. It IS known that mercury itself can have a neurotoxic effect on the nervous system, ESPECIALLY on the developing systems of fetuses and young children.

It is the mercury vapor known to be released upon chewing and removal of amalgam fillings that is harmful. This puts dental professionals at a higher risk than most people at developing health issues. When we remove these fillings the waste is legally considered a biohazard and dental offices are required to dispose of it through a company specializing in biohazard waste. They have disposal methods that do not contaminate the environment.

It is the reccomendation of many dentists, Dr. Berard included, that an amalgam filling that is leaking or broken be replaced with a material that will strengthen the tooth and prevent future breaking or cracking.

Dental Implants

2011-03-15T08:37:00.001-07:00

At ENVISION Dental we are excited about the advances in dental implants. They are one of the most signigicant developments in dentistry, and implants have enabled us to improve the quality of our patients' lives. They are considered to be the "standard of care"! Implants have been extensively researched for many years and have a very high success rate, often greater than 95%

Implants also have a very high retention rate. There are now cases that have been in place for over forty years that are working as well now as they did at the beginning. Patients become excited about implants because they can literally change the rest of their lives.

After all, the mouth is one part of the body we use all day long- whether we're talking, eating, laughing or singing. Even during the middle of the night your mouth and teeth are moving. Implants help our patients feel more comfortable and confident.

Some of our patients are pleased with the fact that implants are permanent, others enjoy looking better and feeling younger. Still others are relieved that they no longer have to worry about loose dentures because the retention with implants is so strong.

Implants are actually placed in the upper or lower jawbone where they bond with the bone and for many cases today, the patient can have a temporary crown placed on the implant the same day. For others, the implants are allowed to heal and the final restorations are placed at a later date. There are many options for the final restorations and Dr. Berard can offer you more specific information on which options might be best for you.

The best thing about dental implants is that patients who are missing teeth or suffering from ill-fitting dentures, and the associated discomfort, can now have a predictable permanent result that enhances their quality of life.

Pregnancy and Dental Care!

2011-03-15T08:33:00.000-07:00

Dental care is often avoided during pregnancy. YIKES!!! This could be harmful to both mom and baby. Every pregnant woman should be screened for periodontitist, counseled on proper oral hygiene, and treated for preventative and treatment procedures. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, dental procedures such as diagnostic x-rays, routine cleanings, periodontal (gum) treatment, fillings and extractions are safe and are best preformed during the second trimester of your pregnancy. Appropriate dental care during pregnancy may reduce preterm births, low birth weight and infant cavities.

Lynne
Your Dental Hygienist

To Pierce or not to Pierce...I think not!

2011-02-15T10:06:00.000-08:00

The last decade (or two) has seemed to provide an ever increasing number of mostly young people, who are trying to show their individuality or express their personality through body piercing. Mouth piercings in particular seem to be the most dangerous or have more potential risks than some others. I was aware of the lip, tongue and cheek piercings, but was just recently enlightened to the uvula piercing that some people choose.  Despite the many reasons that people choose to pierce, I want to share some of the health/dental reasons to reconsider.

There are many potential risks to think about when considering a "mouth" piercing including; infection (sometimes serious enough leading to death), injury to the teeth and gums, damage to fillings, nerve damage, excessive blood loss during or after receiving a piercing, scar tissue, excessive drooling and saliva production as well as possible speech and chewing issues.

Because the mouth is a moist dark area, it is the ideal breeding ground for bacteria. This can cause serious infection of the piercing site and can include painful swelling, possibly to the point of closing off airways.
Sometimes bacteria from the piercing can lead to a potentially life threatening circumstance, such as inflammation involving the valves of the heart and heart tissue called endocarditis.  Anyone with a heart condition (known or unknown) is at risk for this infection and death can result as a worst case scenario.

Another serious risk of mouth piercings in particular is the possibility of nerve damage. This damage is caused when a nerve is nicked or pierced causing problems that can be temporary or permanent. Many reports of loss of the sense of taste and a general "bad" taste have been noted.   Some people also develop a hypersensitivity to the metal jewelry they use in these piercings and have a metallic taste in the mouth. When the nerves of the mouth are damaged it is also possible to have issues with speech and mouth movement.

Your teeth and gums also run the risk of being damaged with mouth piercings. According to a dental journal study as reported on WEBmd, "47% of people wearing barbell tongue jewelry for 4 or more years had at least one chipped tooth".  These jewelry pieces worn through the lower lip can also cause your gum tissue to recede or disappear. Barbell wearers are especially susceptible to developing gum disease, which is an infection of the gums that leads to bone loss around the tooth and eventually tooth loss if left untreated. Use nylon jewelry if possible to prevent wear on the teeth and gums.

Another very serious result from piercings is the possibility of contracting blood borne diseases from unsterilized equipment. These types of infections can include, but are not limited to, Hepatitis B & C, Herpes Simplex Virus and HIV.

If you are considering getting a piercing(s) please make sure that you thoroughly research the facility and person doing your piercings and be aware of the potential risks.

Sedation

2010-12-01T09:33:00.000-08:00

If it has been years since you have visited a dentist or if you are fearful of going to see a dentist we may have just the solution for you, sedation dentistry. With a small pill you are able to relax comfortably while your treatment is being completed. Often in just one visit.

So, what does your smile say about you?
Does it say "I'm confident and happy" ...or

Does it say "I'm embarrassed and uncomfortable"?

I want you to ENVISION your ideal smile. What would that look like? I'm guessing that it would include straighter, whiter and brighter teeth. Right?

Your vision can happen!! I know what I have mentioned is a little scary but I also know that some of you out there will have the courage to call the office to schedule that NO CHARGE Consultation you have been putting off for forever. Come meet the Envision Dental Team today!!

Pregnancy and Oral Hygiene

2010-10-12T07:06:00.000-07:00

What does Oral Hygiene and Pregnancey have to do with one another?

While Pregnancy can be a very exciting time in your life there are a lot of different changes taking place in your body and in your mouth as well. Good oral hygiene is very important during pregnancy because of the increase in hormone levels that can cause dental problems to be intensified.

During pregnancy one of the most common dental issues is a condition known as pregnancy gingivitis. This is a condition that usually occurs in the first trimester of pregnancy. The symptoms of pregnancy gingivitis usually include bleeding, red, tender and swollen gums.

Maintaining good oral health could also be very important to your unborn baby. Some research has suggested that the serious stage of gum disease know as periodontitis, could cause premature birth and low birth weight.

The following tips can help you achieve and maintain good oral health throughout your pregnancy.

* Visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. This is the best way to make sure that you are maintaining good oral hygiene.

* Brush your teeth properly at leat two times per day to remove plaque, focusing on the gumline.

* Floss your teeth daily. Flossing will remove food and debris from in between the teeth reaching areas that a toothbrush will not reach.

* Use an antimicrobial mouth rinse to help prevent gingivitis.

* Brush or scrape your tounge daily to help remove bacteria. Tongue scrapers can be found near the toothbrushes in your local drug store.

* Eat nutritious meals and healthy snacks. Remember that foods like cereal and crackers are carbohydrates and turn to sugar...that means more risk for cavities so at least rinse with water after eating these foods!

You now have the information to protect your oral health so sit back, relax and enjoy this special time in your life.

(Lynne, your hygienest at ENVISION Dental would love to help you achieve your optimum oral health).

P.G.A. Tour

2010-09-14T05:50:00.001-07:00

I am so excited to share with you the latest news about Makkar Pure Power Mouthguards(R). Remember back to the Super Bowl this year and how the New Orleans Saints were wearing mouth guards that helped to increase flexibility, strength, balance and endurance? Well, these amazing mouth guards are now helping thousands of athletes improve their performance in their own field-of-play, be it football, baseball, skiing, hockey, golf or ANY sport requiring physical exertion. Just this summer the PPM became the official mouthguard of the PGA tour. Visit the PPM web-site at Makkaradvantage.com to see more about the PPM and to read testimonials from different professional athletes.

The PPM(R) is a custom-fitted appliance offered to everyone through a PPM certified dentist like Dr. Berard. Call the office today and we will get you on your way to your BEST physical performance.

Kyle and Janet had the pleasure of meeting hundreds of local golfers at the 2010 Chamber of Commerce Golf Outing in Traverse City last month and sharing the advantages of the PPM. Ever heard of the "pen test"? It's how we can help determine if the PPM will help improve your performance. And it's fun too!!!

Now "I don't have any headaches!"

2010-08-17T12:49:00.000-07:00

"For nearly 20 years I suffered from sometimes debilitating headaches. As the years went by the headaches became stronger and more frequent in nature. Diagnosed as migraines, cluster headaches and finally "facial pain of unknown origin", no treatment was able to reduce or eliminate my headaches or provide significant relief. My painful headache episodes, which often involved pain lasting more than 48 hours, could only be somewhat relieved by narcotic pain medication. After numerous trips to various doctors, including neurologists and other specialists, (and being subjected to) CAT-Scans, MRI and other diagnostic tools, no definitive causes were determined. It was finally recommended to me by an ENT specialist that I seek out a doctor of dentistry familiar with the latest techniques in neuromuscular dentistry.

Much to my relief, I was able to find Dr. Thomas Berard right here in Traverse City! After a consultation with Dr. Berard, where he explained that 80% of headaches are caused by an incorrect bite or muscle tension relating to TMD (tempormandibular disorder). I availed myself of his services, and the virtually painless process of identifying the specifics of my problem and creating an orthotic to treat it were completed. Despite my suspicions, after so many years of suffering, I'm incredibly grateful to have been absolutely 100% headache and pain free since just a week or so after beginning to wear my othotic device! Dr Berard's treatment has radically improved my quality of life and I would enthusiastically encourage anyone suffering from migraines or other headaches, who are not finding relief, to consult with Dr. Berard and his Team at ENVISION Dental."

"The simple fact is that I just don't have headaches anymore!!!!! It feels like a miracle..."
Brian B.

Restore Your Smile with Dental Implants

2010-07-13T10:17:00.000-07:00

I notice teeth ALL the time because I work for and with a fabulous dentist! A healthy smile with attractive, natural looking teeth can give a person the confidence they really need at work, home and at play. Most of all, a great smile can give one the inner confidence they might otherwise be lacking.

Think about all the make-over shows that you see. Before the "big change" people either smile with their hand hiding their mouth or they don't smile at all. Imagine going your entire life without smiling for real! Or, maybe you have had a beautiful smile and a tooth is lost because of an accident. That can really do a number on your confidence level.

Modern dental implants help thousands of people regain their beautiful smiles and regardless of the cause of a lost tooth or teeth, dental implants can be a simple and lasting solution for restoring teeth. Missing teeth should be replaced for a number of different reasons. Even one missing tooth can lead to the loss of additional teeth and possibly even a change in your facial appearance. When a tooth is missing the adjacent teeth can collapse into the gap and the teeth in the opposing jaw can grow into the gap. When a tooth has been missing for a longer period of time there is often a loss of bone in the jaw.

A dental implant is an artificial root that serves as a replacement for missing teeth. Usually made of titanium, implants are biocompatible and do not trigger any allergic reactions. All-ceramic materials used in prosthetics are also 100% biocompatible.

Denture wearers rejoice!!! Dental implants may help eliminate some of the main problems you are facing with your dentures. Poor fit, gum irritation, pressure points, speech and taste impairment may be eliminated with dental implants. A removable prosthetic (denture) can be secured on two or more implants which help hold the denture securely in place...no more floating dentures!

What I am really trying to express to you is that dental implants really can change your life! Call Janet, Kyle, Lynne or myself to schedule a consultation with Dr. Berard and get started on a new fabulous smile.

Do You Suffer From Migraines or Headaches?

2010-06-22T12:24:00.000-07:00

Kyle, Holly, Lynne and I have just returned from a 3-day seminar at The Las Vegas Institute of Advanced Dental Training (LVI). The seminar gave us valuable new information on the latest treatments for headaches and migraines. We learned that 80% of headache and migraine sufferers can have their symptoms greatly reduced or totally eliminated through neuromuscular dentitry.

Sufferers are predisposed to headaches and migraines through increased muscle tension in the head and neck region. This tension is caused by an incorrect, unbalanced bite. There may be triggers to the pain such as certain foods, bright lights or even hormonal changes, however, these triggers would not cause the headches or migraines unless the underlying muscle tension was already present. It is my goal to get you out of pain and correct the problem so that you never have to experience the headaches again.

If you or someone you know is suffering from frequent headaches or migraines give me a call for a no-charge consultation. Just imagine living your life without the pain, frustration and sensitivity of head pain. If you suffer from any of the following issues I may be able to help resolve these symptoms as well...
* Jaw Pain or noise (clicking or popping)
* Limited mouth opening
* Ear Congestion (fullness, pressure)
* Vertigo (Dizziness)
* Tinnitus (Ringing or noise in ears)
* Dysphagia (Difficulty swallowing)
* Sensitive Teeth (loose, tender or temperature sens.)
* Clenching or Grinding
* Dry Mouth (after sleeping)
* Facial Pain (non-specific)
* Cervical Pain (neck pain)
* Postural Problems
* Paresthesia of Finger Tips (tingling)
* Pain in Temples, Forehead or Shoulders
* Nausea
* Nervousness/Insomnia

A NOTE FROM KYLE
"I can't wait to go back for the next training!!!" That was the first thing I said to my husband when I returned from LVI. I had so much to talk about and was so excited about all the new information I brought back from the seminar. I am also super excited to put it all to use. I have suffered from migraines all of my life and on April 27th, just before we went to LVI, I was hooked up to the TENS unit (a machine to relax your facial/shoulder muscles) and the K-7 (a jaw tracking device). A few weeks later I received an orthotic, which I prayed would eliminate my headaches. Now a little over a month has gone by and I can honestly say I have not had ONE headache since I began wearing it. This applance has changed the way I live my life. I am blessed to have such an amazing and brilliant Doctor to work for. I can only hope you will take my word for it and come in to see all the wonderful ways, through Neuromuscular Dentistry, Dr. Berard and our team at ENVISION Dental can change the way you live your life!!!

Bone Builders and their potential effects...

2010-01-19T06:21:00.000-08:00

Are you taking one of the bone building drugs such as Boniva(R), Fosomax(R), Actonel(R), or Anedia(R)? If you are then you should be aware of the possible negative effects on your oral health. One severe side effect linked to these drugs is osteonecrosis which is dying bone which effects the jaw.

Healthy adults who take the oral medicine have a very low risk of developing a jaw complication, however, if you are under IV administration of the drug or have other health complications such as chemotherapy, history of multiple mylenoma or Paget's disease you are at increased risk. It is critical to avoid Dental Surgery, Tooth Extractions, and Dental Infection regardless of whether you are taking the above mentioned drugs in oral or IV form.

In order to prevent dental infections careful routine dental cleanings are a must as well as excellent home care practices. Any removable appliances (Partial or Complete Dentures) should be checked regularly by your dentist to avoid sore spots.

If you or a loved one will be needing any IV treatment with one of these bisphosphanate drugs or with Chemotherapy, it is ideal to see your dentist for a thourough exam first. Any extensive procedures should be done prior to starting IV therapy.

Monday Night Football

2009-11-10T11:04:00.000-08:00

Did you see Monday night football when New Orleans played? The announcers talked about the advantage the Saints had that night. What was that advantage? The Saints General Manager had the team fitted with the Makkar Pure Power Mouthguard(R). Studies have shown that this mouthguard increases strength, flexibility and balance.

The Pure Power(R) mouthguard can only be fitted by a dentist trained in Neuromuscular Dentistry as I have been. The technology is the same that we use to treat TMJ disorders including headache and migraines. The mouthguard improves performance in any sport that requires strength, balance and/or flexibility such as golf, baseball, football, hockey, tennis, martial arts, etc. Other companies have recently come up with their own mouthguard, however, they are not backed by science.

To learn more about the Makkar Pure Power(R) mouthguard visit www.makkaradvantage.com for a demonstration of how it works or call our office in Traverse City, MI @ 231-933-9000 for a free consultation.

2009-10-06T06:02:00.000-07:00

Women's Expo

We had an Envision Dental booth at the Expo on Sept. 19 and 20th. We had a great time meeting so many wonderful people and Grand Traverse Resort was a great place to have it.
We gave out tooth brush cases to all and had a drawing for Zoom Whitening and one for a Sonic Care power tooth brush.

We also gave a 20 min. presentation at the Expo. Lynne, our hygienist, talked on a very timely subject. More and more people are taking bisbiophosphates, such as Boniva, to increase bone density. However, for some people there can be necrosis of the jaw bone. Lynne will be posting a blog on this subject, going into greater detail. Holly, our treatment coordinator, talked about some of the areas we specialize in; such as, Smild Makeovers, Implants, TMD treatment - along with related Headaches and Migraines, Snoring and Sleep Apnea treatment, and Sedation Dentistry. Holly will also be posting a blog on these topics.

We would like to thank every one that stopped by the booth to say hello; and invite them to stop and visit us at the office.

I would like to thank my office team for all their hard woud and dedication to making the Expo a success. Thanks to Janet, Kyle, Holly and Lynne.

Tom

Sleep Apnea

2009-08-13T13:25:00.000-07:00

I have just finished my third "lunch and learn" in as many weeks. I met with the area sleep physicians and we talked about how we could help each other to provide the best possible treatment for people who suffer from Sleep Apnea. People with Sleep Apnea often snore loudly and stop breathing many times during the night. This can be a life threatening condition. It can lead to high blood pressure, stroke and even death. Not to mention those who are injured or killed due to day time sleepiness, falling asleep while driving.

Some signs and symptoms of Sleep Apnea are:

Excessive daytime sleepiness

Loud, disruptive snoring or nocturnal pauses in breathing

Gasping or chocking for air while sleeping

Restless sleep

Depression and irritability

Morning grogginess and headaches; inability to concentrate

If you have and of the above, we can screen you for Sleep Apnea. And if there are positive signs, we would send you to your physcian or one that specializes in sleep problems. An over night sleep study is the best way to diagnos sleep apnea.

Our role in all this is to aid the Sleep Physcian. First, by screening our patients for this deadly conditiion. Secondly, to aid in treatment. In most cases, the best treatment for Sleep Apnea is a CPAP machine. It is a device worn at night that sends pressurized air into your nose thus keeping the airway open. However, some people find it uncomfortible and won't wear it. For these people, especially with mild to moderate Sleep Apnea, an oral appliance such as the Somnodent MAS works as well. It is an oral appliance, fitted by us, that opens the airway up and allows you to breath, by moving your jaw done and forward. No chords nor machines to carry around. If you have and questions, please give us a call.

Thanks,

Dr. Tom Berard

2009-07-09T08:52:00.000-07:00

Just finished another implant course, this one on min-implants. These can be used to anchor a loose denture in place.

If you have loose dentures or missing teeth, we now have multiple ways to help.

2009-06-23T06:20:00.000-07:00

It has been a long time coming, but the web site is finally up. There may be a few bugs with it, so let me know of any you find. TAB

Test Post

2009-03-03T08:59:00.001-08:00

This is a test post. You can delete it later!