LSU School of Dentistry Alumni Day

A short update by Dr. Ken LeBlanc:

Last Friday, I attended "Alumni Day" at the LSU School of Dentistry.

 It was a day of Continuing Dental Education. The morning session was titled “Technology in Restorative Dentistry”, focusing on the use of CAD/CAM Restorations with digital impressions and models. We learned about the different systems that are available and the pros and cons of all of the systems. The afternoon session, “The Truth behind Words and Relationships”, was conducted by a world-famous motivational speaker, Dave Weber. Dave talked about how important and powerful words can be, both in a positive and negative way. He talked about the ways in which we, as doctors, can improve our relationships with our patients and staff, as well as our family and friends. To do this, we had to learn how to focus more on the positive things and less on the negative things we see in others.

Overall, it was a fun day of learning and catching up with many of the former graduates of the LSU School of Dentistry. It ended with a nice wine and cheese party for all attendees, faculty, and senior Dental students.

Geriatric oral health and pneumonia risk.

Multiple infectious consequences of poor oral health have been extensively described and primarily affect older adults. 

The risk of aspiration pneumonia is greatest when periodontal disease, dental caries, and poor oral hygiene are compounded by swallowing disease, feeding problems, and poor functional status. 

The expense of aspiration pneumonia as a nursing home complication makes dental hygiene a potentially cost-saving intervention.

Can a tooth cause a sinus infection?

It is important to remember that unhealthy teeth are just one cause of sinus infections, and that there are several other causes.  If you suspect your sinus infection is caused by a tooth, you should see your dentist to confirm this. To read more on this subject click here: http://www.oralanswers.com/2013/04/sinus-infection-tooth/

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a chance to raise awareness about the importance of screening and the early detection of breast cancer. About 1 in 8 women born today in the United States will get breast cancer at some point during her life. After skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common kind of cancer in women. 

The good news? Many women can survive breast cancer if it’s found and treated early. A mammogram – the screening test for breast cancer – can help find breast cancer early. Make a difference! Spread the word about mammograms and encourage communities, organizations, families, and individuals to get involved. 

Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, can affect your jaw, cause pain, and even change the appearance of your face. Stress and anger can increase nighttime teeth grinding. 

Finding ways to alleviate these feelings can help, but it's also important to see your dentist, who can recommend solutions like a custom night guard.

Sugar And Your Teeth

Contrary to what mom said, sugar won't directly rot your teeth—but the acid produced when you eat sugar and carbohydrates can. Naturally occurring bacteria in the mouth devour sugar, creating acids that attack tooth enamel, which can lead to decay and a host of other problems, including gingivitis and cavities.The worst thing you can do is leave sugar lingering on your teeth and gums. Eating any amount of candy and brushing and flossing immediately is actually less damaging than not brushing after eating one piece before bedtime.

Dry mouth can lead to teeth trouble

A dry mouth isn't just unpleasant, it's bad for your teeth. Saliva washes away cavity-causing bacteria and neutralizes harmful acids. 

Drink lots of water, chew sugarless gum, use a fluoride toothpaste or rinse, and consider over-the-counter artificial saliva substitutes. See your doctor if it's a frequent problem.