Curious Questions You’ll Love Knowing The Answers To

We understand that, more than once, you’ve thought of lots of questions to ask the dentist in the weeks or days leading up to your appointment. But when you actually get in the chair, you either forget questions or worry that your questions are silly and unnecessary, and forego asking them altogether. 

 

Don’t let fear stop you from asking questions—trust us, we’ve heard it all, and enjoy answering every curiosity you have! If we don’t know the answer off the top of our head, we’ll be happy to research anything you want to know and get back to you right away. If you are someone that suffers from “chair amnesia” and all your questions seem to disappear, consider writing them down or sending us an email prior to your appointment. We understand the amount of stuff running through your head on a daily basis, so don’t worry about showing up with a note pad or sticky notes. 

 

If you are still hesitant to ask certain questions, we have a few of the most common “unasked questions” listed here for you to gander. 

 

I haven’t been to the dentist in 5…10….15 years. Should I be embarrassed? 

 

No! The most important thing is that you’re here now. We won’t guilt you or make you feel bad for your time away. Instead, we’ll work together to determine why you hadn’t had an appointment during that period of time, and work through any anxieties or issues that you might have experienced in the past.  

 

I feel really, really nervous. Can I put in headphones, or can we create a hand symbol if I get anxious? 

 

Of course! We want you to feel comfortable and at ease at every appointment. If listening to music or a podcast helps you relax, then please take advantage of technology today! If you suffer from serious dental anxiety, we also offer options for sedation dentistry that can make the appointment pass quickly with very little memory of the event. 

 

Can you tell that I’m lying about flossing? 

 

Yes, we can absolutely tell if you stretch the truth about your flossing routine. Without flossing, you’re not cleaning 35% of the surface of the tooth. Due to this, your gums will be inflamed, and tartar will have built up around your teeth. We won’t admonish you or embarrass you for this, but we will remind you that flossing is an integral part of your oral health routine. 

 

Is my problem the worst you have ever seen? 

 

Some patients ask and we know others are thinking that their teeth are the worst we’ve ever seen. As dentists, let’s just say we have seen it all. You shouldn’t be worried about coming in to address lingering issues, or even for a cleaning. The most important thing is that you came in. We are here to help you rejuvenate your smile and alleviate any pain you are experiencing.  

 

I am afraid that I won’t be able to pay for my dental work. 

 

If you are uninsured or underinsured and have concerns that you can’t afford the work you need, please speak up. Prior to any procedure, you can meet with our finance team to discuss costs and payment options. Putting off necessary work due to cost might result in more costly work in the future. 

 

Do you need to know all my prescriptions? 

 

Discussing what medications you’re on might seem too personal to share with your dentist, but it is important. We are part of your comprehensive health team and it’s important that we’re in the loop to ensure we don’t prescribe anything that could adversely react with anything you’re taking. We want to work collaboratively with your other providers, so please be transparent!

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Video Review: Less Is More?

North Texans have been lucky that real estate costs haven’t been too astronomical compared with national trends, and generous-sized houses are the norm scattered throughout our suburban sprawl. But while this is great for ensuring that everything has its place, it also means that we are holding onto things that we don’t necessarily need…or purchasing more stuff just because we have the space for it! 

 

In this TedED video, Graham Hill explains how ditching extra stuff in your home can actually lead to increased happiness. But before you go throwing out all your children’s “stuff” (especially after you step barefoot on a Lego in the middle of the night), keep reading to hear more about the social science behind minimalistic living.  

 

Today, on average, houses have three times more space than houses did 50 years ago. Due to that, you’d have to assume that families have more than enough room for all their prized possessions! 

 

Well, guess again. The personal storage industry is a $22,000,000,000 industry today. That means that, although we have more space, we also have an excess of possessions that require offsite storage. 

 

So, in the grand scheme of lifestyle and metal health, what does this mean? While we may have more stuff, we also have more debt, an increased carbon dioxide footprint, and more stress. These effects are why Mr. Hill has concluded that less might equal more. 

 

The basis for Hill’s hypothesis is that less stuff—combined with less space—results in less of an environmental impact, more money in your pocket, and more overall happiness. He gives an example of living in New York City where he moved to an apartment that was 200 square feet less than his previous. He calculated that he would be able to save $200,000 by saving money on rent, utilities and the inability to impulse-buy products that only take up room.  

 

Next, Hill gives practical steps on how you can “live little” and increase your happiness. The first thing that you must do is edit ruthlessly. This means cutting extraneous stuff out of your life and slowing the inflow of what comes through the door. Experts on minimalism have varying forms of advice of how to purge items. For clothes, many agree that if you haven’t worn it in the last year then it can go. If you are an avid chef and have a kitchen overflowing with gadgets and gizmos, then one piece of advice to get rid of “single use items.” So…the avocado peeler that sits in the back of the drawer should get the boot since it can’t be used for other tasks. This also means you need to think before you buy. 

 

The next step is to think small. While this runs counter to our unofficial mantra that everything is bigger in Texas, it doesn’t have to mean that you need to trade your spacious home for the tiny apartments featured at Ikea. Instead, it means making smart purchases that nest (think measuring cups) or stack, or digitizing photos and documents, or shredding unneeded paperwork.  

 

Finally, Mr. Hill’s last piece of advice is to make things multifunctional. Look for pieces of furniture that can be used for several purposes or articles of clothing that can bridge seasons. This will cut down on the amount of stuff you actually need.  

 

Hill believes that by cutting out the stuff in your life, it can actually make you richer and happier. Editing down the things in your life will look different for every person. Take small steps to try out his ideas, be sure to watch the video, and see if you feel a burden lift! 

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Our Methods for Healthy Gums

When it comes to oral heath, most people first think about the health of their teeth. It’s only natural. And while that’s obviously a very important component, patients often forget about gum health. Even if you have a bright white smile and haven’t had a cavity in decades, it doesn’t mean you’re immune to gum diseases. And since gum disease can build slowly and progress over time, many people don’t realize they have a serious problem until the disease has caused significant damage to their mouths.  

 

Why is gum health so important? Your gums are comprised of soft tissue that surrounds the teeth and provides a seal to prevent food and other foreign objects from passing through. Unlike other soft tissues in your mouth (like lips and cheeks), your gums are bound tightly to the underlying bone. This allows us to eat a variety of food efficiently. 

 

As you get older, your gums can become more susceptible to disease. This can also lead to other issues—like heart disease—that can become serious as you age.  

 

Traditional methods 

 

As dentists, we would be remiss to not remind our patients that the best thing you can do for gum health is brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day. While your teeth may feel clean after just brushing, the truth is that you are only reaching a fraction of your teeth without pulling out the floss as well. Imagine showering everyday but never washing your hair. At some point, people around you will realize that your hair is dirty. This is true for your gums, too. 

 

And, of course, it’s important to get regular dental cleanings. Dentists are able to detect early gum disease before you are. This means treatment can begin sooner and any negative effects can be reversed.  

 

What are gum massagers?  

 

Sure, you’ve heard of back massagers to loosen up sore muscles, but what about gum massagers? Just like when you massage any other part of your body, you feel better immediately thanks to the stimulation to your circulatory system. 

 

A gum massager can be found on the end of your toothbrush or you can purchase a separate product. Typically they’re made of rubber and should produce no pain when used. By vigorously rubbing the gums, fresh air is integrated into these spaces. This kills off bacteria that are anaerobic—or can’t live without oxygen. 

 

In addition to killing off bacteria, gum massage can remove plaque that’s stuck along the gum line. And finally, getting blood flowing through stimulation can begin to heal damaged gums. If you have experienced gum disease that results in gum recession, some studies have even shown that gum massage can stimulate gum growth.  

 

I am unhappy with my gum line 

 

Some of our patients tell us that they’re unhappy with how their gums look. This is generally when patients have what’s commonly described as a “gummy smile.” This means that they have long gums that make their teeth appear smaller than they really are.  

 

Having excess gum can also increase a person’s risk of gum disease. If you suffer from a gummy smile, then a gum lift might help you achieve a smile you’re proud of. However, before you undergo any procedure it’s important you have no periodontal disease or other oral health issue. 

 

On the other side of the coin, gum recession results in gums that are too high and that make your teeth look too large for your mouth. More alarmingly, if the gum pulls back too far it can expose the root of the tooth, which can lead to significant tooth decay or disease. This can occur as a result of untreated gum diseases. To prevent it from getting worse, gum contouring could be an option.  

 

Gum heath is just as important as tooth health. If you are suffering from redness, swelling or bleeding of the gums it is important that you schedule an appointment to visit your density today. Untreated gum disease can cause serious health problems and need to be treated immediately.  

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A Case For The Curious…Tooth Loss and Heart Disease

It‘s been said many times that the mouth is the window to the body. From diabetes to heart disease to numerous other conditions, what goes on in your mouth can indicate changes happening in the rest of your body. This is one of many reasons why it is important to visit your dentist bi-annually. 

 

Many times, your dentist is able to catch something—such as diabetes—before your general doctor does. 

 

A recent study acknowledges the roll your mouth plays in alerting you to other serious health conditions such as coronary heart disease. The American Heart Association concluded that losing two or more teeth during middle age is associated with increased cardiovascular risk. What’s more, having fewer natural teeth by middle age is also associated with the same risk.  

 

Background of the study 

 

While many previous studies have linked poor cardiovascular health and poor oral health, this was the first study that specifically examined tooth loss during middle adulthood and compared that to heart problems. The study followed adults between the ages of 45 and 69 who did not have any signs of cardiovascular disease at the onset of the study.  

 

This long-term study asked participants how many natural teeth they had, then followed them over several years. Among adults with 25 to 32 natural teeth at the beginning of the study, those who lost two or more teeth during follow-up had a 23 percent increased risk of coronary heart disease—compared with those who didn’t lose any teeth. This was true after adjusting for diet quality, physical activity, body weight, hypertension and other cardiovascular risk factors. 

 

On the other hand, loosing just one tooth did not notable increase the chances of heart disease.  

 

And finally, adults who started with less than 17 natural teeth were 25% more likely to develop heart disease than counterparts who started the study with a full set of natural teeth. 

 

What causes the heart disease in patients who lose teeth? 

 

The notion that oral health and cardiovascular disease are linked is not a new idea. In fact, this causation link was established more than a century ago. 

 

One type of cardiovascular disease, atherosclerotic vascular disease, is caused by the buildup of plaque in the arteries—which leads to the hardening of the arterial walls. The thicker the walls get (or the more plaque that builds up), the more likely that the patient will suffer a stroke or heart attack.  

 

This study was different, however, since it focused solely on tooth loss in middle adulthood—not other oral health issues, specifically. Scientists conducting the study noted that results were not swayed by diet or exercise regime. Instead, they were able to note that as certain patients got older, their oral health deteriorated and caused more issues that resulted in tooth loss. 

 

Half of American adults age 30 and older have periodontal disease according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This is a major contributor to tooth loss. Furthermore, other experts have highlighted that it’s important to also examine socioeconomic status of the individuals affected by higher rates of tooth loss and cardiovascular disease. Individuals who lack the resources to see a dentist or doctor, in particular, are at a higher risk overall of serious health issues.  

 

How to prevent heart disease as a result of poor oral health 

 

This is the most important question to ask coming out of this study. While not all heart disease can be prevented through good oral health, it is important to implement best practices to protect yourself.  

 

For starters, it’s important to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily. Remember to replace your toothbrush at least every three months, too, or more often if the bristles are bent. Finally, schedule regular dental checkups! So much can be caught at these appointments that it just may save your life. 

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Must-Shop Local Stores

There are plenty of advantages to deciding to shop locally instead of throwing your money at big corporate chains. For starters, and in our favorite arena, it’s almost always the case that local businesses have healthier products when it comes to food. 

 

Possibly the most significant benefit of going local, though, is that when you buy something from a local business your money stays in the community. And it’s reused for the purpose of making the community better. Most local companies get their supplies locally, too, which makes the effect snowball. 

 

The better customer care and buying experiences are other pluses, too. So, for the purpose of improving Fort Worth as a community, we’d like to recommend some local businesses that will leave an impression on your buying experience for sure.  

 

1. Maven  

If you’re one of those people who just prefer to go to one store and buy it all (without having to run around town entering different stores), Maven is a place you have to pay a visit. Originally named Chiffonier’s, it’s been years since the store started operating under this new name. AT Maven you can find unique clothes, jewelry, shoes and more, But lately, they’ve even started focusing more on exclusive beddings, furniture, and housewares. If you want to redo your house entirely, this is the place to visit! 

 2. Kelly’s Treasure 

For more than 20 years, Kelly’s Treasure has offered trending jewelry where everybody can find something to suit their style. The store operates with a team of rockstar employees who are led by a mother-daughter duo. The store continues to evolve with the times, including all the different styles and trends that quickly overtake the industry, so you can surely find something modern and chic there. They even offer products like clothing and bridesmaids’ gifts! Their message to customers is that you can even shop in their PJs, because your happiness is the staff’s first priority—along with offering high-quality goods for fair prices!  

 3. Sweet Shop USA 

If you want to have healthy teeth, we’re supposed to tell you to avoid eating chocolate and sweets in general. But, in the end, we’re only human, and the time comes where we all deserve a treat. Sweet Shop USA was founded in Fort Worth back in 1972 and to this day offers one of the absolute best truffles among their many other sweets. The locale began as a family-owned business with a strong dedication to preserving the craft of handmade chocolates. And today, the enormous collection of handmade products is distributed nationwide with around 7,000 retailers. If you’re a true chocoholic or know somebody who deserves a chocolate gift, don’t hesitate to pay a visit to this fantastic store with local roots! 

 4. Buon Giorno Coffee Shop 

What do you do if you’re craving a European coffee in the middle of Texas? Simple! You visit Buon Giorno Coffee Shop, which offers cups of delicious coffee inspired by the many luxurious and world-renowned European coffee shops. Buon Giorno’s story is that, when the soon-to-be owner was 18, he went to Rome and tried Italian Espresso for the first time that left him truly enchanted. Later he decided to transfer that taste back home, and he opened his first coffeehouse in Grapevine, TX. The Fort Worth coffeehouse was the second shop that he opened. By all standards, this is a place worth visiting! 

 5. Fort Worth Food Truck Park 

Even if you’re unusually picky about your food, chances are you’ll find something that for you at the Fort Worth Food Truck Park! This is the first park in the area where food trucks rotate regularly, offering delicious specialties prepared by some of the best chefs in the area. The park’s located in a serene park in the heart of the cultural and entertainment district of the city. Even better, this place is more than just a place where you can get food! There’s also live music on a regular basis and even outdoor games to keep you and your family entertained. Take your whole family with you—even your furry family members—and enjoy the delightful food in great company! 

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When Do You Need More Than One Appointment…For One Procedure?

Here at Dr. Ku’s, we understand that our patients are busy in their personal and family lives. And because of this, it can be especially hard to make time to come into your bi-annual appointment—much less other follow-up appointments! 

 

If your dental situation requires extensive work, you might have had to deal with scheduling multiple appointments over a short amount of time. And while we know this can be a burden on your schedule, always remember that proper scheduling is just as important as the procedure.  

 

For example, more comprehensive procedures (such as dental implant surgery) require time for your gums and mouth to heal before moving on to the next step. Below we’ll highlight several scenarios of when a procedure can be done in one visit…or could take you coming back several times. 

 

If, over the course of your treatment, you ever have questions or concerns about the plan, please let our office know! Our goal is restore your smile and ensure you are comfortable throughout the whole process.  

 

I have a cavity or several cavities…how long will the fillings take? 

 

Most of the time, filling cavities can be done in a single visit. And thanks to advancements in dental technology, filling a cavity is quick and painless for most patients. And particularly because of that “painless” part, we’re able to easily fill several cavities in one visit. However, if you have a dozen or more (which is common for patients who haven’t been to the dentist in many years), we many choose to do work over two visits to give you a break. We understand having your mouth open for hours on end can be uncomfortable, so we always work within the comfort level of the patient. 

 

If I need a root canal, how long should I budget for? 

 

Root canals can typically be done in one day if it’s the first time that this tooth is getting treated. Traditionally, a root canal takes about 90 minutes and can be done in one sitting. However, if you have already had a root canal on the tooth and need the procedure redone, it could lengthen the treatment time.  

 

If I am getting a dental implant, will it require follow up visits? 

 

Dental implants procedures are more complex and take more time that filling cavities or performing root canals. Depending on the type of procedure (dental implant, bridge, or dentures), the length and complexity of the procedure will vary. 

 

For example, a dental bridge is anchored by the teeth on either side of the cap through the use of crowns. In the gap, a false tooth made from gold, alloy or porcelain is placed. Getting a bridge placed will take several visits. At the first visit, impressions will be made and a temporary bridge will be placed. A second visit will allow the dentist to remove the temporary bridge and replace it with the permanent one.  

 

For dental implants, the length and number of visits depends on your overall oral health and the number of teeth being replaced. Traditionally, the first phase includes implanting a titanium rod into the jaw bone. Healing will take several months, and the dentist will monitor how the rod attaches to the bone. The second phase will allow the dentist to place the crown on the implant. For this procedure, it’s especially important to not rush the healing process. 

 

If I am having a complex or lengthy procedure, how do I relax? 

 

Dr. Ku’s office offers sedation dentistry for our patients who are nervous about upcoming procedures, or those who have to spend significant time in the chair. Each form of sedation works a little differently, but they all work with the brain and nervous system to reduce fear and anxiety—while many times blocking out any memories of the event. Many patients report feeling a sense of deep relaxation throughout the appointment. In addition to fear, many of our patients are concerns about their gag reflex. When under sedation, patients lose the fear of choking or gagging. This allows them to relax and even nod off to sleep. Let us know if this is something you are interest in!  

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