Technology in dentistry

New Technologies In Dentistry

We live in a time when technology is advancing faster than most of us can keep up. Take our iPhones for instance. They have only been on the market for ten and a half years, and even then…the early models look like bricks compared to the highly sophisticated devices we have in our pockets now.

And to think we sent the first spaceships into orbit with less technology than is in wrist watches today! In the medical setting we have also seen hug leaps in technology in the past few decades. From cancer treatments that use a patient’s own cells to fight tumors to lasers in dentistry that whiten teeth, we live in the best time for medical advancements.

Keep reading as we highlight some of the biggest innovations in dentistry over the past decades!

Highlighting cool technologies in dentistry

Throwing it way back, the discovery of fluoride and the invention of modern toothpaste in the last century revolutionized and changed the course of oral care. Our not-too-distant relatives commonly lost all their teeth in early adulthood and suffered greatly from oral health problems due to the lack of proper hygiene products. The combination of fluoride and modern toothpaste change the course of oral health.

While the idea of dental implants is not new (in fact they date back to 600 A.D.), innovation over the last several decades has brought this ancient idea into the future. Over the last 30 years, dentists and researchers have learned more about how implants can integrate with the jawbone. Today, many experts point to the discovery that titanium can physically bond with living bone tissue as the catalyst to the modernization of dental implants. Modern implants use titanium to form an artificial root of the tooth. Once surgically implanted into the jawbone, the titanium bonds with the jawbone and heals much quicker than previous iterations. This technology brings comfort, aid in eating and confidence to millions of Americans every year.

Another dental technology that has changed the landscape is teeth whitening. Once again, the idea has been around for decades; however, modern technology has allowed patients to have office-quality whitening service at home. Tray whitening has allowed people to complete the treatment at home and new laser-based technology has allowed for quick in-office procedures that give same-day results. In addition to these, over-the-counter products have also become more accessible to the masses.

 

Onto the future…

In addition to the technologies that are currently dominating the marketplace, there are always new things right around the corner. As dentists, we are always excited to discover new technologies that can make appointments easier for patients and keep their teeth healthy! Ultrasound technology is one budding innovation that allows dentists the option of radiation-free imaging and 3D images of the teeth. There is still work to be done here since the images are not always very crisp. However, there are always new breakthroughs in ultrasound technology and we hope it will eventually be a viable alternative.

3D printing has taken the world (and dentistry world) by storm. A new proprietary method opened by Carbon boasts printing speeds more than 100 times faster than your traditional 3D printer. This technology has already begun to be harnessed by using 3D printers to make dentures! This technology will allow dentists to do things more accurately, faster and cheaper than traditional methods. This all results in more benefits for the patient!

Finally, virtual reality is no longer just for video games. Thanks to its proliferation in the market, virtual reality training is beginning to change the way dentists are trained in dental school and continuing education classes. These systems allow dentists to hone their skills and experiment all without the presence of an actual patient. In addition to the dentists benefitting, some offices are allowing their most anxious patients to wear virtual reality headsets during exams to calm nerves and provide an escape.

Technology is every changing and here at Dr. Ku’s are always keeping our eyes out for new products that can make your trip to the dentist even better!

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Tips For Summer 2018 Travel

With summer vacations right around the corner, you might already have vacations planned that require a trip to the airport.  

 

Exciting! 

 

While getting to your destination is great, the process can be long, tiring and frustrating…especially if you have kids in tow or are having to conquer the labyrinth that is DFW Airport! To ensure that we enter the summer stress-free and each make it to our vacation destinations in one piece, we’ve provided our Tips and Tricks on how to make air travel easy! 

 

Packing 

 

Depending on the duration and destination, our packing advice is going to vary slightly. If you’re heading out of town on a short trip (i.e., less than two weeks), pack light and consider shipping toiletry items to your destination via Amazon or another big-box retailer. This could include wipes, diapers, sunscreen, snacks, or even sippy cups—things that your children rely on daily, but you don’t want to take up room in your bags. Remember, it’s important to be agile at the airport, and that requires less stuff! 

 

If you are taking a long, luxurious trip that will have you out of town for weeks at a time, still pack light. You will not want to be lugging around huge suitcases for weeks on end. If you are gone for a while, scope off where you’re going and the options for buying additional necessities when you get there. For instance, if you need extra shirts for your kids, is there a Gap Kids (or the foreign equivalent)? Having this knowledge will help you pare back your belongings. Also, look for accommodations with washing machines, like on Airbnb. This will help you pack less and re-wear more! 

 

Finally, don’t forget to double bag all your liquids. You don’t want shampoo spilling all over a week’s worth of clean clothes! 

 

Navigating the airport 

 

This can be daunting, especially with strollers, car seats and all those bags (however, if you followed our packing instructions then it won’t be that many)! So for starters, check in ahead of time. Then, if you are traveling with another adult, have them drop you at the curb with all the bags or clunkier items. The other adult will park the car and solely handle the children. You will be able to divide and conquer and get those bags checked before the cutoff time. 

 

Once in the airport try to be as nimble as possible. This means checking everything you can. After you pass through security, keep your kids moving. This will help them get out all their wiggles before the flight. 

 

On the plane 

 

Be like a boy scout and come prepared with one of each of the bare necessities. This means snacks, extras clothes, diapers, activities and a little bit of grace for yourself and your family. No matter how many times your kids cried, or the number of lollipops you had to feed them to keep them quiet, it’s ok. Th plane ride is just something you have to get through! 

 

…Enjoy your vacation 

 

Celebrate once you get there, because you did it! Enjoy your vacation and cherish all the moments with you family or friends, because soon you’ll have to pack up and do the whole airport thing all over again. With these easy tips, we hope to make getting to your destination less stressful and, if possible, thoroughly enjoyable! 

 

We are always looking for new tips and tricks for traveling—especially with kids! So let us know what works best for you and your family!  

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Your Fluoride FAQ

Have you ever stood in the toothpaste aisle at the grocery store and been totally overwhelmed by the options? 

 

What makes the choice hard for toothpaste is that there are so many ingredients included—and some of them with controversial news items, particularly fluoride. What is fluoride, and is it actually necessary? We know a lot of our patients are committed to “eating clean” and avoiding the use of overly-processed chemicals and ingredients. So, should you avoid using fluoride and opt for fluoride-free toothpaste, too? 

 

To dispel myths and ensure you are protecting your teeth with every brushing, we’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions we receive from our patients. If there is any question not listed, feel free to give our office a call today! 

 

Is fluoride natural? 

 

Fluoride is a naturally occurring chemical ion found in rocks, soil, and water. However, it does not exist on its own in nature. To harness its benefits, it must be created though a scientific process. Harnessing the ion was a scientific achievement in the first half of the 19th century, and its benefit were discovered to be so widespread that it was added to water and toothpaste in the 20th century. 

 

What does fluoride do for my teeth? 

 

Fluoride protects teeth by making tooth enamel stronger and more resistant to the bacteria that feed on their outer surfaces. Fluoride actually gets into your enamel, and once there it combines with the calcium and phosphate to create a stronger outer layer. 

 

Worn enamel can cause weak teeth that easily chip or break. Thanks to fluoride in toothpaste, teeth are stronger than ever, and there has been a significant decline in cavities since its introduction.  

 

Where do I find fluoride? 

 

Fluoride exists naturally and is in almost all water supplies in the U.S. That said, in many areas the fluoride levels are even further increased in water to help protect your teeth. Some experts believe that the rate of cavities has been cut by more than 25% fully due to the fluoridation of water! 

 

In addition to water, most toothpastes also contain fluoride. The combination of fluoridated water and toothpaste has saved both patients—and state governments who administer health benefits—millions of dollars! Healthier teeth mean more money in your pocket. 

 

For patients that are at a higher risk of developing cavities, your dentist can even provide an additional fluoride treatment. These professional treatments only take a few minutes and are much stronger than what’s available over the counter. If you have a history of cavities, talk to your dentist today about a fluoride treatment.  

 

Is fluoride safe for children? 

 

While fluoride is generally lauded as a great accomplishment in public health, some concerns remain about what the proper amount of fluoride is for kids. Overconsumption of fluoride in young children can lead to what’s called fluorosis. This condition exists prior to age eight and is a result of getting too much fluoride when the teeth are forming in the gums. It’s estimated that less than one in four people have this purely cosmetic condition. 

 

Some of my friends say fluoride is still dangerous, is it true? 

 

We have heard many stories of how fluoride can cause diseases and is “not beneficial.” However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention still recommends that community water systems add fluoride to their water. They also acknowledge its benefit on tooth decay. However, just with any substance—naturally occurring or not—it is important to use fluoride properly and in moderation. If you have concerns about your use, please call us today. 

 

The advent of fluoride has been deemed one of the largest scientific advancements of the 20th century. It protects our teeth and has decreased cavities by over 25%. If you have any questions about your fluoride use or have any additional concerns, call our office today! 

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April Fort Worth Events To Check Out!

The spring weather is finally here and it beckons us out of our winter hibernation. While we in Fort Worth, Texas know our winter temperatures aren’t the worst in the county, we still prefer the warm weather over the Texas cold. 

 

Thanks to the warmer weather, we can finally start planning events outside and soaking in that natural vitamin D. If you’re looking for things to do in the Fort Worth area to get out of the house, then we have you covered! From concerts to cattle and everything in between, we have picked out our favorite upcoming events in Fort Worth in the coming months. Get out your calendar, because there are lots of things you won’t want to miss! 

 

Family-friendly 

 

Do your kids have cabin fever as bad as you do, or worse? We all know Fort Worth is a family-friendly city, but here are a few upcoming events that will be sure to thrill the littlest ones. 

 

• A Day out with Thomas: Join your favorite trains Thomas and Percy and trusty conductor Sr. Tophamm Hat for a meet and greet and train ride! Here your kids will be able to meet their favorite characters and learn more about the railroad. Bring your camera for the photo ops! 

 

• 2018 Strider Cup: This tot-friendly bike race is great for your little athletes under six. With some races geared for those two and under, even the youngest members of the family can have fun. Organizers hope this race will help spark a love of biking for all participants! 

 

• Beauty and the Beast: The Casa Mañana Theater is soon to be hosting the classic, The Beauty and the Beast. For any Bell fans, you can also include a tea with characters from the show. Create young theater lovers with a night out at this show! 

 

Festivals 

 

If you’re looking to get out and spend time with friends, this is a great time of year to visit a festival. Here are some of our favorites: 

 

• Mayfest: This huge, four-day party is held every year on the first weekend in May at Trinity Park. This event features live music, festival food, carnival rides, performing arts, pet adoptions, more than 60 Art and Gift Market vendors, free children’s activities, special attractions…the list goes on and on! This event benefits The Junior League of Fort Worth, Inc., Streams & Valleys, Inc., and The City of Fort Worth Park and Recreation Department. 

 

• El Feurte/Taco Fest 2018: As the largest Cinco de Mayo event in Fort Worth, you can guarantee the competition is fierce for the best taco. Come and celebrate diverse cultures through music, food, and live entertainment.  

 

• Main Street Fort Worth Arts Festival: Texas’s largest arts festival will find its home for the 33rd time in Fort Worth at the end of April. Featuring award-winning artists and art in all mediums, this event has been ranked the 4th best art festival in the United States. 

 

Other favorites 

 

Finally, here’s a quick list of a few more of our favorite things to be on the lookout for in Fort Worth in the coming months: 

 

• A Night of Artisans and Chefs  
• Bike-N-BBQ Tour
• First Fridays and the Modern
• Stockyard Championship Rodeo  

 

There is so much to do this spring in Fort Worth that it will be hard to fit it all in. We’ll keep updating our list as events pop up, so let us know if you see something interesting! 

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Is It A “Thing” To Gift Dentist Services?

We all have someone in our lives that is great at giving gifts. Whether it’s the perfect birthday gift or just a “little something” to show they care, it’s obvious they have that special talent in picking out the right thing. 

 

For the rest of us who sift through pages on Amazon looking for something—or just anything—to give, we understand and can even commiserate with you. Thankfully, the holidays are still many months away, so you still have time to think creatively. 

 

Gifts that are experiences such as horseback riding lessons or a hot air balloon ride have risen (ha!) in popularity due to an increase in conscience consumerism. What’s more, giving gifts that help better someone’s life such as gym membership or food delivery certificates have also seen a surge in popularity. 

 

If you’re looking to reduce just giving “stuff,” then it might be time to consider out-of-the-box ideas like giving money towards Invisalign or tooth whitening treatments for those who have said they would want it. Since these gifts are on the personal side, though, allow us to walk you through when and how this type of gift is appropriate.  

 

Is this even a “thing?” 

 

Of course gifts toward dental services is a thing! However, it is important to know your audience when you choose to give teeth whitening treatments or contribute to orthodontic work. We recommend giving these gifts to close friends and family who have publicly expressed their desire for one of these services. This will eliminate any awkwardness for the person who receives the gift, and not contribute to any unintended insinuations of what you think about their appearance. 

 

In some instances, it might be prudent to speak to the person before purchasing the gift. Since the gift of a dental procedure can be expensive, knowing both what is needed and desired most (as well as the preferred provider if you choose to get a certificate) can be helpful in the process.  

 

Is this gift insulting? 

 

There is always the potential for the person who receives the gift to question your motives and end up feeling bad. However, that is why we suggest talking to the person prior to offering. For many people, a bad smile or unhealthy teeth might have prevented them from advancing in their careers or have resulted in a decrease in self-esteem. While some may see the offer of dental services as an attack on their physical appearance, many people would be honored to have the opportunity to have a bright, healthy smile. 

 

What are the benefits? 

 

The benefits to giving a gift like this are really endless. A good smile contributes to more professional and personal opportunities. Studies have shown that a good smile makes you seem more trustworthy and can lead to more job opportunities or growth in your field. As your confidence grows you will also smile more, strengthen connections, and advance professionally. In addition, both Invisalign and tooth whitening are noninvasive, so there’s no time required to recover, and results can be seen quickly. 

 

Giving the gift of dentistry is a great option for those closest to you. Talk to the person before making any purchases; but remember, this is one gift that is guaranteed to keep on giving. 

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Wisdom Teeth FAQ

Many of us remember having our wisdom teeth removed in high school or college. For millennials and generation Xers, removing these teeth was common practice and you could count on knowing at least a few classmates who would be having them removed during every school break. 

 

For older generations, many people still have their wisdom teeth. For those that still have this third set of molars, we are commonly asked if they need to be removed or if they could be harmful in the long run. 

 

Wisdom teeth have developed the stigma that they are somewhat useless. Just like with your appendix, they are fine to have until something goes wrong, and when it does, it normally requires immediate action. If you still have your wisdom teeth, it’s important to discuss their health with your dentist and determine if they could be doing more harm than good.  

 

Why do we have wisdom teeth? 

 

First, why do we have wisdom teeth (and, is that their medical name)? Our third set of molars has been given the name “wisdom teeth” since they typically come in when you are between 17 and 25 years old. There was the notion that by the time these teeth came in you would have gained more wisdom. (We’ll let parents decide on that one.) 

 

The purpose of these teeth dates back to our prehistoric ancestors who had much larger mouths, which could easily fit 32 teeth. At that time it was important to have a large jaw since the diet was still primitive and consisted of tough meats and fibrous roots. What’s more, having an extra set of teeth offset any losses of teeth that were commonplace due to lack of hygiene awareness. 

 

However, as humans have evolved and left the hunter and gatherer lifestyle, our jaws also changed. Thanks to softer foods, we no longer needed an extra set of molars to help break down tough content. With a smaller jaw, 32 teeth no longer fit properly. Due to this, complications occur like teeth that don’t fully erupt or become impacted.  

 

Do they have to be pulled? 

 

Why do so many dentists recommend wisdom teeth be removed? Sure, they might be useless, but so is our appendix and tailbone and most of us are still walking around with both. 

 

The problem with wisdom teeth is that through their evolution, there is no longer room for them in the mouth and that results in poor root quality and oddly-shaped or angled teeth. Even if you do have the space in your mouth, there is a higher likelihood that your wisdom teeth could become infected or lead to the development of other periodontal diseases since they are so far back and hard to clean. Many times, pulling wisdom teeth is a preventative measure that is done to protect the long-term health of your mouth. 

 

When to have them removed 

 

There is no correct time for wisdom teeth to be removed. Many dentists recommend in the late teen years since your mouth can heal much more quickly at a younger age. However, the best time to get them removed in general is before they start to cause other oral health problems.  

 

The procedure to remove wisdom teeth varies from patient to patient since sometimes the teeth are impacted or someone may not have a full set. The procedure shouldn’t be painful with the correct anesthesia, and is done in an outpatient setting. Proper care after the procedure is important to prevent painful side effects, too, like dry sockets. 

 

Wisdom teeth might be somewhat useless, but they can cause significant problems if ignored. If you still have your wisdom teeth, talk to us at your next appointment and we can outline your options and help guide you in making a decision that will protect the health of your mouth for years to come. 

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