EMA Dental Blog

NORTHAMPTON, PIONEER VALLEY AND SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS — No doubt an important characteristic of a beautiful smile is its brilliance. Eye-catching smiles are not only healthy, but also bright. But how do you achieve pearly whites that are sure to light up any room?

“Aesthetically appealing smiles begin with good oral health,” said Dr. Lisa Emirzian, a Pioneer Valley dentist and esthetic dentistry specialist at EMA Dental. “The better patients take care of their teeth, the more likely they are to have a white smile.”

Besides maintaining good oral health, there are five effortless and affordable ways you can achieve the luminous smile you have always wanted.

1. Eat crisp fruits and vegetables on a regular basis. Their abrasiveness helps remove tooth stains. Fruits and vegetables that are known as “nature’s toothbrush” include apples, celery and raw carrots.
2. Avoid consuming dark-colored drinks like sodas, coffee and red wine. These types of beverages easily stain teeth. If you choose to drink them, use a straw and wait at least 30 minutes after consumption to brush so the acids found in these beverages are not spread around your mouth.
3. Stay away from tobacco products like cigarettes and chewing tobacco, which not only discolor teeth over time, but can also increase your chances of developing gum disease and oral cancer.
4. Invest in a good tooth brush and replace it every two to three months so as much plaque as possible is lifted from teeth, and bacteria is not transferred to and moved around your mouth.
5. Take advantage of professional whitening treatments offered by cosmetic dentistry practices like EMA Dental. EMA Dental offers 30-minute and 60-minute in-office treatments, custom trays for at-home whitening and ZOOM! whitening. Professional whitening treatments can offer dramatic results in a short amount of time.

Cosmetic dentists like Dr. Emirzian desire to help you have the smile of your dreams and offer a variety of services as to meet every aesthetic need. That is why they provide treatments, like Invisalign, smile makeovers, bonding and ZOOM!whitening. If you are interested in improving the appearance of your smile, contact EMA Dental today to schedule a consultation and learn what treatment is best for you.

© 2013 Sinai Marketing and EMA Dental group. Authorization to post is granted, with the stipulation that EMA Dental group and Sinai Marketing are credited as sole source. Linking to other sites from this article is strictly prohibited, with the exception of herein imbedded links.

NORTHAMPTON, EAST LONGMEADOW AND SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS — You may be under the impression that the only options for replacing your missing teeth are dentures and bridges. Think again. Dental implants have become a more popular method for replacing natural teeth and restoring self-confidence.

Dental implants are metal posts that are placed into the jawbone via surgery and lie beneath your gum. Once the posts or frames are positioned, the replacement teeth can be fixed to them.

“Implants are designed to take the place of missing teeth, especially where there are no adjacent teeth to attach a bridge to,” said Dr. Vincent Mariano, aNorthampton, MA dentist and prosthodontist who offers a variety of esthetic and restorative services, including porcelain veneers. “They are a good alternative to dentures and bridges, especially for patients who have a regular oral health regimen.”

There are two types of dental implants used by dentists: mini-implants and implant-retained dentures. Mini-implants are smaller in diameter than regular dental implants and help stabilize your lower dentures. They cost less than full-size implants, usually do not involve a gum incision and can be placed within a few hours. Mini-implants can replace individual missing teeth, acting as an inexpensive and permanent solution.

Implant-retained dentures are full or partial dentures that are held in place via two to four dental implants. They are typically used if there are no teeth in the jaw. Traditional dentures tend to shift, causing difficulties in speaking and eating. They can also cause discomfort or may not even be an option for replacing your missing teeth due to sore spots, gagging and other oral problems.

Not only are dental implants a common alternative to dentures, they are also being used in the place of bridges. Bridges require that there are teeth adjacent to those that are missing, which may not be the case in your mouth. Permanent bridges are placed using crowns or a dental bonding agent, as compared to the metal posts that are inserted into the jawbone during the dental implant placement process.

Regardless of whether you choose dentures, bridges or dental implants to replace your missing teeth, what is important is that you have missing teeth in your mouth replaced. Replacing lost teeth can restore your facial structure to its original appearance, decrease your chance of developing gum disease and improve your speech.

Prosthodontists like Amherst dentistry professional Dr. Mariano of EMA Dental are committed to helping you improve your oral health and achieve the smile you have always wanted. They are trained to identify and utilize the best method for replacing your missing teeth and restoring your current teeth. They are glad to help you get on the right track toward reconstructing your smile. Call EMA Dental today to learn more about dental implants and schedule your consultation.

© 2013 Sinai Marketing and EMA Dental group. Authorization to post is granted, with the stipulation that EMA Dental group and Sinai Marketing are credited as sole source. Linking to other sites from this article is strictly prohibited, with the exception of herein imbedded links.

NORTHAMPTON, EAST LONGMEADOW AND SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS —

With Oral Cancer Awareness Month right around the corner, it is important to remember that cavities and gum disease are not the only oral health problems you should be concerned with preventing and monitoring.

There are two types of oral cancer: oral cavity cancer and oropharyngeal cancer. Oral cancer can affect any part of the oral cavity, including the throat, lips, mouth and tongue.

The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2013, approximately 36,000 people in the United States will get oral cancer. Of those 36,000 people, the ACS estimates that 6,850 of them will die from oral cancer. (http://www.cancer.org/cancer/oralcavityandoropharyngealcancer/detailedguide/oral-cavity-and-oropharyngeal-cancer-key-statistics)

“Fortunately, there are several ways that you can try to prevent oral cancer from developing,” said Dr. Vincent Mariano, a Springfield, MA dentist who specializes indental implants and other Prosthodontic services. “Practices include abstaining from alcohol and tobacco use, avoiding prolonged UV light exposure, and eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.”
There are several signs of oral cancer that you should look for, especially if it runs in your family, including:

• Ear pain
• Unexplained mouth bleeding
• Soreness in the back of your throat
• Lumps, swellings or rough spots anywhere in your mouth
• Unexplained numbness
• White, red or speckled patches in your mouth

While some early cases of oral cancer may cause you to experience symptoms and seek medical attention, other cancers may not produce symptoms until they are in an advanced stage. This is where oral cancer screenings come into play. Other reasons why regular screenings are important include:

• You may not always be able to detect abnormal areas by looking at your mouth in the mirror. Your dentist and hygienist are trained to identify areas of concern and have advanced testing techniques available if needed.

• Your treatment options are based on the stage of the oral cancer, so the sooner the cancer is detected, the better the chance you will not need as extensive of a treatment.

• More than 25 percent of oral cancer patients do not use tobacco products or drink alcohol, so there is a chance that you will develop oral cancer even if those products are not a part of your lifestyle.

• Depending on your symptoms, your dentist may need to perform a head and neck examination because oral cancer can easily spread to your lymph nodes due to their proximity to your mouth and oropharynx.

Once your Northampton MA family dentistry practitioner identifies the stage of your oral cancer, he/she can determine what treatment method will be the most effective. Treatment options include surgery, palliative treatment, radiation therapy and targeted therapy.

Dentists in Northampton, MA, like Dr. Mariano and Dr. Lisa Emirzian, care about your well-being. They are dedicated to the betterment and maintenance of your oral health. They will be happy to perform an oral cancer screening at your next checkup. Call today to set up an appointment and learn more about oral cancer.

© 2013 Sinai Marketing and EMA Dental group. Authorization to post is granted, with the stipulation that EMA Dental group and Sinai Marketing are credited as sole source. Linking to other sites from this article is strictly prohibited, with the exception of herein imbedded links.

NORTHAMPTON, EAST LONGMEADOW AND SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS-Even though your dentist has probably stressed to you on more than one occasion the importance of maintaining good oral health, it can be confusing as to where to start.

“Keeping your smile healthy doesn’t have to be complicated,” said Dr. Vincent Mariano, a Northampton dentist who specializes in prosthodontic services likedental implants. “There are a number of quick and easy habits patients can implement into their daily routine.”

Below is a list of several tips you can follow to help protect your teeth and gums from harm:

1. Avoid sugary foods and beverages, like sport drinks, energy beverages, sodas and sweets. Consuming these types of products can lead to cavities and enamel erosion.
2. Brush twice daily using a circular motion and fluoride toothpaste.
3. Receive a professional cleaning from your dentist or dental hygienist every three to six months.
4. Speak to your dental professional to see if dental sealants could be beneficial for you. Sealants are made of a composite material and when applied to the surface of teeth, they protect against decay.
5. Abstain from using tobacco products. Cigarettes, chewing tobacco and other tobacco commodities can increase your risk of suffering from periodontitis and oral cancer.
6. Gently floss between teeth once daily.
7. Speak with your dental professional to see if a fluoride regimen is right for you.
8. Replace your toothbrush regularly, at least every two to three months.
9. Stay away from alcohol, as it’s also a risk factor for oral cancer.
10. Visit your dentist regularly for checkups, and screenings for oral cancer, periodontitis and gingivitis.
11. Wear a mouth guard when you play sports. Misaligned teeth are harder to take care of, so if you have an irregular bite, consider getting braces. If you want straighter teeth without the appearance of traditional metal braces, talk to Dr. Lisa Emirzian about whether Invisalign Teen or Invisalign is right for you.

Practices such as the ones listed above can not only aid in preventing a myriad of problems, but also help catch many oral health issues before they worsen.

The state of your oral health is crucial because it determines the physical appearance of your smile and can also affect your overall health.

Despite any preexisting or current oral health conditions you have, it’s never too late to begin an oral health routine. Your first step toward a beautiful, healthy is smile is just a phone call away. Call your dentist today for an oral health regimen that is tailored to your specific needs.

© 2012 Master Google and EMA Dental group. Authorization to post is granted, with the stipulation that EMA Dental group and Master Google are credited as sole source. Linking to other sites from this article is strictly prohibited, with the exception of herein imbedded links.

NORTHAMPTON, EAST LONGMEADOW AND SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS-For years, silver amalgam was the standard filling material used in dental practices. With concerns related to the possible side effects of amalgam coupled with the fact that metal fillings often do not bond as well to the tooth as composite materials and can actually mask decay in X-rays, composite fillings are now considered state-of-the-art. The doctors of EMA Dental are pleased to offer composite fillings. They are natural-looking, do not contain metal and can actually strengthen your teeth.

“As dentists, it is our duty to constantly evaluate the techniques and tools we use to treat patients,” said Dr. Vincent Mariano, a Northampton dental implantsspecialist and prosthodontist. “It should be our goal to protect our patients’ oral and overall health while providing the best solution to their dental problems.”

“Mercury in Dental Amalgam and Resin-Based Alternatives: A Comparative Health Risk Evaluation” was published June 13 by the Healthier Hospitals Initiative, Health Care Research Collaborative of the University of Illinois at Chicago School of Public Health and Health Care Without Harm. It reports that using resin composite or other substitutes for amalgam fillings may not be as harmful to the public’s health and the environment.

Co-author of the study Dr. Peter Orris claims that dental use of amalgam largely contributes to the environmental mercury burden and can cause damage to fetuses’ neurological development.

Any type of stimulation can cause amalgam fillings to release mercury, the vapors of which can pass through cell membranes and the blood-brain barrier into yourcentral nervous system. This transfer of mercury can cause psychological, neurological and immunological problems.

The effects of dental mercury are not limited to the patients on which it is used. In 2003, dental offices contributed 50 percent of the mercury that was present in Publicly-Owned Waste Water Treatment Works, according to the report.

Dental fillings are used to “fill” areas where decay is removed, or fix teeth that are broken, cracked or worn down. Resin composite fillings, which are made of plastic and reinforced glass, are becoming more popular.

“Composite fillings are less harmful to the environment and restoration patients,” said Dr. Lisa Emirzian, who offers teeth whitening at EMA Dental, her East Longmeadow dental practice. “They also help preserve healthy tooth matter and last as long as amalgam fillings do.”

Northampton dentists like Dr. Mariano and Dr. Emirzian are trained professionals who are concerned about your oral and overall health. Because they have your best interest in mind, you can be sure that they use only the safest dental products when they provide treatment.

© 2012 Master Google and EMA Dental group. Authorization to post is granted, with the stipulation that EMA Dental group and Master Google are credited as sole source. Linking to other sites from this article is strictly prohibited, with the exception of herein imbedded links.

NORTHAMPTON AND EAST LONGMEADOW, MASSACHUSETTS – Many studies on dental X-rays tend to focus on the dangers of radiation and fail to recognize the importance of X-rays in early diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. Vincent Mariano, a Northampton dental specialist, points out that studies often do not differentiate between traditional and digital X-rays, and often fail to acknowledge that X-rays can aid in the diagnosis of conditions that are not visible to the human eye. He refers to a study recently published in an American Cancer Society journal titled “Cancer” as an example.

“Dental X-rays and Risk of Meningioma” uses the recall abilities of participants to make the conclusion that meningioma patients are more likely to have undergone certain types of X-rays than non-meningioma patients.

On April 10, the American Dental Association released a statement explaining that due to “recall bias,” results of studies that rely upon participants’ memories are not reliable.

Many of those who participated in “Dental X-rays and Risk of Meningioma” received X-rays decades ago when patients were exposed to greater amounts of environmental radiation and dentists used conventional X-ray technology.

The authors reported that panoramic and bitewing films showed a statistically significant increase in chance of patients suffering from a meningioma. Most dental practices have since done away with film radiography technology and turned to digital X-rays instead.

Digital radiography offers a number of benefits, including reduced exposure to radiation. Digital X-rays improve workflow because they can be viewed immediately, aiding in quicker diagnosis, and because they are stored electronically, they are available to be sent immediately to outside specialists (orthodontists, endodontists, oral surgeons and other dental specialists).

They also play an important role in early diagnosis and treatment. Many diseases and oral health conditions cannot be detected with the naked eye alone. Digital radiographs can help your dentist identify gum disease, cysts, tumors, decay, bone infections, developmental abnormalities and several other issues. When your dentist discovers these complications early on, he/she is better able to treat the conditions with less invasive procedures, such as dental crowns and invisible braces, before they worsen. If conditions are not diagnosed and treated early, more invasive and expensive procedures may become necessary. In the end, digital X-rays save you from spending more time and money at your dentist’s office than necessary.

You can find comfort in knowing that your dentist strives to minimize the amount of radiation you are exposed to due to their use of digital X-rays.

“We educate our patients on the importance of dental X-rays and encourage them to play an active role in their dental health,” said Dr. Lisa Emirzian, who offerstooth whitening treatments at her dentistry practice. “Using the ADA’s guidelines, we recommend X-rays when they are essential to the well-being of our patients.”

Northampton dental implants providers like Dr. Mariano and Dr. Emirzian are trained professionals who have your best interests in mind. Because they are concerned about your oral and overall health, you can be sure that they will only perform X-rays when they are needed.

© 2012 Master Google and EMA Dental group. Authorization to post is granted, with the stipulation that EMA Dental group and Master Google are credited as sole source. Linking to other sites from this article is strictly prohibited, with the exception of herein imbedded links.