NFD Wellness

What causes sensitive teeth?

Do you have sensitive teeth? Teeth can become sensitive due to gum recession, which is the exposure of root surfaces above the gumline. This can happen due to grinding and clenching the teeth, brushing aggressively with abrasive toothpaste and medium or hard bristle toothbrushes, or a history of orthodontic treatment resulting in receded gums.

When aggressive toothbrushing techniques are used, it is possible to remove thin layers of dentin, which is the tooth structure that is exposed in recession. This allows liquids, acids, and air to move through the tooth through the dentinal tubules more easily, reacting with the nerve within the tooth.

Other reasons teeth can become sensitive are the erosion of enamel by acids from food, diet or stomach problems, gum disease, grinding teeth, whitening teeth or cracked teeth or fillings.

Sensitive Teeth and Whitening

Many teeth bleaching agents contain peroxides which can cause sensitivity. Sensitivity from whitening usually goes away after stopping application for a few days. There are professional whitening products that contain desensitizing agents as well as methods you can use to manage sensitivity during your whitening at home. Talk to your Lincoln, NE dentist about any concerns you may have about sensitivity during whitening. 

Find out more about Professional Teeth Whitening for Sensitive Teeth at: https://nebraskafamilydentistry.com/professional-teeth-whitening/

 

Sensitive Teeth and Recent Dental Work

Recent deep cleanings and placement of fillings or crowns can result in postoperative sensitivity. This should be short-term and is a normal part of the healing process. If this discomfort persists, talk to your Lincoln, NE dentist.

Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wh0dH4DzYgs

Find out more at: https://nebraskafamilydentistry.com/dental-pain-toothache-management/

Sensitive Teeth and Cracked teeth or fillings

Chewing ice, biting into hard candies, or having large older fillings in the teeth can eventually lead to cracked or broken teeth. Cracks and fractures can allow bacteria from the oral cavity to enter the inner part of the tooth, leading to inflammation of the nerve.

Sensitive Teeth and Grinding / Clenching Your Teeth

Clenching and grinding can cause enamel to wear away as well as accelerate gum recession. Wearing a nightguard can help minimize damage to the teeth and dental restorations over time.

Sensitive Teeth and Tooth Decay

Tooth decay can expose the inner layers of your teeth to temperatures from foods and liquids and allow bacteria inside of the tooth. This can cause sensitivity and if untreated, more severe tooth pain. Practicing excellent home-care, eating healthy and seeing your dentist on a regular basis can help prevent cavities.

Cavities and New Fillings Post Operative Directions on Managing Dental Pain

What can I do about sensitive teeth?

To prevent further recession or abrasion of teeth, it is a good idea to avoid abrasive kinds of toothpaste and instead use sensitivity toothpaste. Brushing gently with a soft or extra soft toothbrush will prevent burnishing the exposed root surfaces further.

Many healthy foods are high in acid like tomatoes and citrus. These acids can erode tooth enamel and irritate exposed dentin. It is a good idea to rinse with water after eating an acidic meal. Do not brush teeth immediately after eating sour foods, as this can cause further erosion. Wait at least 45 minutes to brush after a high acid meal.

What kind of sensitivity toothpaste is best for sensitive teeth?

There are many brands of sensitivity toothpaste on the market. Sensodyne is made with potassium nitrate salts and fluoride, which have been shown to help desensitize teeth by blocking the dentinal tubules and preventing stimulation of the nerve. For patients who would like a natural, fluoride-free option for sensitivity, Tom’s of Maine has one of the best products on the market. Recent research has suggested a more rapid and long-lasting effect from the ingredient arginine and calcium carbonate than more commonly used potassium nitrates. Tom’s Sensitivity Rapid Relief toothpaste contains arginine and calcium carbonate.

Regardless of what sensitivity toothpaste is used, it is important to use it on a daily basis for best results. Labels on sensitivity toothpaste often state to only use them for a few weeks.This statement is only made to discourage patients from putting off seeing their dentist if they are experiencing dental pain. There are no health risks with continued use of desensitizing agents.

Gently brushing sensitivity toothpaste on for two minutes and not rinsing after brushing to allow the toothpaste to stay in place is the recommended application method. If patients have areas with more severe sensitivity, they may apply a small amount of paste with a finger and allow it to stay on the tooth.

What can dentists do about sensitive teeth?

Depending on the reasons for sensitivity, your Lincoln, NE  dentists can apply fluoride varnish or prescribe rinses or toothpaste for you to use at home that contains higher levels of fluoride or potassium nitrates and arginine calcium carbonates. If the sensitivity does not go away, it is possible to bond composite material to the exposed dentin.

Best Dental Plans and How To Find Them

No dental insurance? No problem! Even if it’s been a while since you’ve seen the dentist, you don’t have to feel bad. It is crucial to find the best dental plans for you and your family, since avoiding the dentist could cost you more in the long run.

And that’s where we come in.

At the end of 2016, nearly 77 percent of Americans had some kind of dental insurance, according to the National Association for Dental Plans. However, that means that about 1 in 4 people had no dental insurance at all.

If you aren’t seeing the dentist regularly because you’re lacking dental insurance, we can help! Read on to learn more about our partners at Lincoln Dental Plans, how their plans help those without dental insurance, and what it means to be a member below.

The Best Dental Insurance Option For Those Without Dental Insurance

The options are limited for those who can’t afford dental insurance. You can pay for treatment out of pocket, but that gets expensive quickly. Alternatively, you may find the best dental plans within arms reach. However, in our experience, patients who don’t have dental insurance have trouble getting the dental treatment they need and deserve. So what’s the solution?

The Trouble with Dental Insurance

Unfortunately, dental insurance isn’t built like regular health insurance. It won’t usually cover the entire cost of a particular treatment. Many times it will cover a certain percentage of your treatment, and the rest of the balance will be left to you.

It’s important to know that your dental insurance company isn’t necessarily looking out for your best interest. Although you may have out-of-pocket expenses, it’s crucial not to base your treatment decisions on what your insurance will cover. Doing so can be hard on your teeth, and besides, Lincoln Dental Plans offers a solution. No more need to base dental treatments on what you can afford!

Benefits of Lincoln Dental Plans

There are plenty of benefits with Lincoln Dental Plans that you won’t find with dental insurance. For one, you won’t need to adhere to the tough necessities of a dental insurance plan. Alongside that, below are some of the main benefits of Lincoln Dental Plans.

Goodbye Monthly Premiums – With Lincoln Dental Plans, you’ll no longer have to meet monthly premiums. Instead, members pay a single yearly fee and gain access to several free and discounted services all year long.

No More Waiting Periods – You’ll have access to new procedures the very day you sign up for Lincoln Dental Plans. This is different than dental insurance companies which will often make patients wait for treatments. Again, even necessary treatments are often buried by waiting periods. There’s no need to wait for the treatment you need with Lincoln Dental Plans.

No More Paperwork – Thankfully, once you sign up for Lincoln Dental Plans you won’t have to do any more paperwork. This is unlike dental insurance, which has patients doing and looking through paperwork all the time.

Discounted Common Dental Treatments – The purpose of Lincoln Dental Plans is to make dentistry affordable again. We do this by offering discounts on common dental services, such as root canals, dental fillings, removal of teeth, dental crowns, deep cleanings ( Periodontal disease treatment) and many other services.

Dental Insurance vs. Lincoln Dental Plans

For many of our patients, Lincoln Dental Plans has changed the way they pay for treatment. With dental insurance they were often left high and dry. Others may not have had insurance at all. However, the best dental plans out there can even be similar or better, depending on your needs. Lincoln Dental Plans, in particular, is a great dental discount plan with many offerings that are unavailable from insurance:

Membership

Becoming a Lincoln Dental Plans member is easy. All you have to do is make an appointment with your local provider, and ask them about Lincoln Dental Plans. Then, your dentist, hygienist, or other dental staff provider will help you decide the best dental plans depending on your needs. They’ll talk you through the different Lincoln Dental Plans, and ultimately they’ll help you choose a plan for yourself.

Annual Plan Benefits

All of X-rays

Comprehensive exams

2 Regular cleanings

23% off all treatment 

Ready to become a member?
Schedule an appointment below with any of our partnering locations.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Dental Plans

I need to have a root canal. What are the best dental plans for root canals and crowns?

Lincoln Dental Plans is our best recommendation if you see our offices regularly. With Lincoln Dental Plans, you’ll receive discounts on treatments like root canals and crowns.

Do all Lincoln Dentists take Lincoln Dental Plans?

At this time, only Nebraska Family Dentistry locations accept Lincoln Dental Plans. In order to utilize your membership, be sure to see our providers here in Lincoln.

Can I use two dental insurance plans?

In most cases, insurance companies will let you double up on insurance plans. It can sometimes reduce what you pay out of pocket. However, like anything it has certain caveats. For one, many dental insurance companies will include a “Non-duplication of benefits” clause in their contract with you. If your dental insurance has this, the secondary plan cannot cover anything if the primary plan has paid the same or more to cover a given treatment.

How To Stop A Cold Sore Fast

Are you prone to cold sores? If so, you’re right alongside about 90% of the US population. Learning how to stop a cold sore is crucial. However, it isn’t as tough as it can sometimes seem! This Lincoln dentist is committed to your wellbeing. So, today on the NFD Wellness Blog we’ll talk about how to stop a cold sore in its tracks, how to hide them and make them go away, and the virus that causes them.

90% of the population may seem high to many people. After all, a person would be hard-pressed to find that many people on the street with cold sores. However, that number represents the approximate percentage of people who have been exposed to the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1). HSV-1 is the virus which causes cold sores, and it’s closely related to HSV-2, also known as genital herpes.

So if 90% of the population has the virus, why don’t 90% of people have cold sores at any given time? The reason has a lot to do with what causes cold sores, and the mistake that most make when thinking about them.

What causes cold sores on lips?

When we talk about how to stop a cold sore, there are a few things we should talk about before moving on. First, we should note that cold sores are always caused by HSV-1. This is because HSV-1 remains dormant inside the body until a cold sore is triggered. Certain things can trigger a cold sore. But at the end of the day, they’re all caused by HSV-1.

So how can 90% of people have HSV-1 if we only see a few cold sores out on the street? This is where triggers come into play. Because certain things predispose people to cold sores, people must be exposed to these things. So what are the things that can trigger a cold sore? There are a handful of underlying conditions, as listed below, that can trigger cold sores.

Exposure to Sunlight

Believe it or not, overexposure to sunlight can often trigger a cold sore breakout. The sun’s UV rays are hard on skin. This often leads to the development of cold sores.

Fever

Fevers are a part of the body’s reaction to sickness. When the immune system encounters certain foreign bodies, it heats up the body in an attempt to weaken and expel the foreign agent. When fevers arise, they often leave behind cold sores. For that reason, cold sores are often called “fever blisters.”

Hormone Changes

When a person’s hormones become imbalanced, it often brings about cold sores. The reason being is similar to both triggers listed above: Hormonal changes can be hard on the body’s immune system. This allows cold sores to slip through the cracks and form, in spite of the body’s hard work against it.

Viral Infection

Similarly, viral infections put the body’s immune system to the test. Both colds and influenza have been known to come along with cold sores for those with HSV-1.

Vitamin Deficiencies

Vitamin deficiencies are another common complaint of those with cold sores. Specifically, the immune system is at its best with healthy doses of Vitamin D and C. When the body doesn’t have enough Vitamin D or C, the immune system’s response can have a tough time keeping with preventing cold sores.

How To Stop A Cold Sore Fast, From the Experts

Unfortunately, there is no cut and dry way to stop a cold sore fast. But there are ways to prevent and conceal them that can work excellently. Below is how to stop a cold sore fast from your local family dentist, the Lincoln dentist’s perspective.

Use Abreva – Using Abreva can significantly reduce the time it takes for a cold sore to heal. The antiviral agent called “Docosanol” is manufactured for this very purpose. In a clinical study, Abreva was shown to reduce cold sore length by up to two days.

Avoid Hot, Acidic, or Salty Foods and Drinks – Hot, acidic, or salty foods and drinks can irritate a cold sore, often causing it to last longer. To figure out how to stop a cold sore fast, you’ll definitely want to avoid these.

Don’t Touch – Touching a cold sore is another simple way to keep it alive and worsen the infection. Keep your hands off to help it heal!

Use Hydrogen Peroxide –  Using hydrogen peroxide on a cold sore can dry it out and stop it from spreading or growing!

Apply Ice – Especially good for those with swelling, using a cold compress or ice will bring down the growth of a cold sore.

See The Emergency Dentist – A qualified Lincoln emergency dentist can use laser removal to reduce the length of a cold sore and prevent cold sores altogether!

Lincoln Emergency Dentist: Cold Sore Laser Treatment

If you’re looking for a cold sore treatment that’s sure to work, laser treatment might just be for you. Our emergency dentist can use a special laser on cold sores which fights HSV-1. The procedure itself only takes about 15 minutes. During this time, the emergency dentist heats up the cold sore to kill the virus. Not only will it kill the virus, but it’ll also help the cold sores heal more quickly, and prevent them from coming back for a longer period of time.

You can reach our emergency dentist at 402-840-9783. You can also schedule with any of our Nebraska Family Dentistry locations day or night here. below, or using the at the bottom of the page.

How can lasers treat cold sores?

While other cold sore treatments tend to treat the cold sore itself, laser cold sore treatment fights off HSV-1. By heating the cold sore’s temperature, the precise laser works to kill the virus and stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. The laser is highly concentrated, so the surrounding area remains completely safe.

The laser not only helps the cold sores heal, but it also prevents them from reappearing. This is because the laser attacks the virus, rather than just the cold sores. In addition, this method streamlines the healing process, giving patients immediate relief from the symptoms of a cold sore. By doing so, this treatment also causes cold sores to stop spreading, preventing the breakouts of loved ones.

The procedure itself only takes about 15 minutes, and is a single appointment. You can also claim cold sore treatment under some insurances – contact your insurance company to see if they do, or check out Lincoln Dental Plans.

Nebraska Family Dentistry Locations

Did you know that Nebraska Family Dentistry locations are scattered all across Lincoln? You can find excellent dental care all over the city of Lincoln! The following are Nebraska Family Dentistry locations:

Coddington Dental  (West Lincoln dentist ): 402-438-5555; 1320 West A St.

Lincoln Family Dentistry (Central Lincoln dentist) : 402-467-1000; 5500 O St.

Northstar Dental (North Lincoln dentist): 402-742-0000; 5800 N. 33rd St

Preserve Family Dentistry (East Lincoln dentist): 402-413-7000; 4303 S. 84th St.

Southpointe Dental (South Lincoln dentist): 402-423-3333; 7940 S. 13th St.

Prevent A Cold Sore

Realistically, a huge component of avoiding cold sores comes in the form of prevention. Preventing a cold sore is truly the best strategy when it comes to how to stop a cold sore fast. To prevent cold sores, there are a handful of different strategies. However, they almost all revolve around taking care of your body and avoiding cold sore triggers. Below, we’ve listed how to prevent a cold sore next time.

The best way to prevent cold sores is to avoid the triggers which make them appear. These include the things listed below

What causes cold sores on lips? 

In general, doing anything to bolster your immune system can help you prevent cold sores. This includes supplementing any necessary vitamins, getting plenty of sleep, utilizing healthy stress reduction practices, and washing your hands often.

Strengthen Your Immune System

Strengthening your immune system will also help prevent cold sores. You can find more information about the immune system here, or check out some quick tips below:

Nutrition – Practicing good eating habits can seriously improve a person’s immune system. Eating iron-rich foods like fish or poultry, as well as probiotic foods like yogurt and sauerkraut will have a positive impact on the immune system. Avoiding things like soda, sugary foods and drinks will help benefit your gut and immunity. You can also try taking supplements of probiotics and other vitamins to bolster immunity.

Oral Hygiene – While some may not realize it, we do as a Lincoln dentist: the state of a person’s oral health has a lot to do with the health of their immune system. If a person doesn’t take care of his or her oral health, it’s common to develop a low-grade (or sometimes high-grade!) infection, which puts a general strain on the immune system.

When cold sore does happen, what is the best way to conceal the cold sore?

Once your cold sore has begun healing, you can use a highly concentrated heavy concealer to lessen its appearance. Follow these steps to conceal cold sore:

• Use a concealer with a creamy, not liquid, texture.
• Only use a small amount of heavy concealer.
• Try using two different shades of concealer: A yellow-based concealer to neutralize redness, and a concealer that matches your skin tone. Start by dabbing the yellow concealer with a disposable makeup sponge. Then add a little bit of the skin-colored concealer.
• After applying concealer, top it with a very light dusting of finishing powder.

Frequently Asked Questions On How To Stop A Cold Sore

What are some foods to avoid with cold sores?

When you have a cold sore, be sure to avoid anything spicy, salty, or overly acidic. These kinds of foods can all irritate the cold sore and cause it to heal more slowly.

When are cold sores no longer contagious?

A cold sore is most contagious if or when it ruptures. If a cold sore bursts, it becomes much more likely for it to spread. Unfortunately, cold sores remain contagious until they completely heal. If you can still see the cold sore, it’s still contagious.

What’s the quickest way to get rid of a cold sore?

While there’s no simple way to get rid of a cold sore fast, the steps below How To Stop A Cold Sore Fast, From The Experts is a great set of steps to speed up the healing process. By using Abreva, avoiding certain foods, keeping your hands off,

How common are cold sores?

Cold sores are relatively common. HSV-1, the virus that causes cold sores, is estimated to be carried by about 90% of the US population. This means 90% of the population have or will have at least one cold sore in their lifetime.

What are some good vitamin supplements for cold sores?

As we mentioned above, Vitamin C and D deficiencies are often associated with cold sores. For that reason, Vitamin C and D are great supplements to avoid and reduce the lifespan of cold sores. Other good supplements for managing cold sores are Lysine, Vitamin B6, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, and Zinc. Similarly, many will recommend eating foods rich in arginine, including oats, wheat, chocolate, nuts, and even pumpkin seeds. Good sources of Lysine include pistachios, black beans, lentils, tempeh, quinoa, and soy milk. You can find Vitamin B6 in fish, beef liver, potatoes, and avocados.

Is a cold sore on the roof of the mouth normal?

Yes! While it isn’t the most common place for a cold sore to form, it does happen from time to time. Don’t be alarmed if you develop a cold sore on your mouth.

How are cold sores spread?

HSV-1 spreads through skin contact. This means that when the affected skin touches any other part of a person’s body, it can spread. Common ways it spreads are through kissing, sharing drinks, food, etc., or from close contact.

What’s the difference between a cold sore and a canker sore?

It’s not uncommon for people to confuse canker sores and cold sores. However, they’re two entirely different conditions. Canker sores are small open sores which occur on the insides of the mouth and on the gums. This is unlike cold sores, which are typically outside of the mouth. Canker sores also look quite different from cold sores, appearing yellow or gray in the center. Cold sores, however, are typically completely red and appear filled with fluid. Another major difference is that canker sores are not contagious, unlike cold sores.

Is a cold sore the same thing as herpes?

As we mentioned above, cold sores typically come from Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1). Genital herpes is usually from a related classification, HSV-2. Still, it is possible to spread HSV-1 through oral sex. For that reason, it’s important to avoid oral sex during a cold sore breakout.

Can I still have dental treatment if I have a cold sore?

If you come in for laser removal of your cold sore, then yes! However, we won’t perform other dental treatments if a patient has an active cold sore. This is because an active cold sore carries HSV-1, and coming in for these appointments puts your dental professionals at risk. If you do have an active cold sore, be sure to reschedule your appointment.

Can laser removal work to stop a cold sore?

As we mentioned above, laser removal is a great way to stop a cold sore! Our emergency dentist is an excellent option for anyone looking to remove a cold sore.

Looking for the best New Year’s resolution?

Cutting out sugar and added fructose from your diet could be the best new year resolution you could make this year.

Are you looking for the best New Year’s resolution? Another year has come and gone. For most of us, it feels like just yesterday that we were crafting the perfect New Year’s resolution list for 2017, and now it’s already time to start thinking about the next one!

Many of us hope for mental clarity, happiness, and motivation to help achieve our New Year’s resolutions in 2018. Experts suggest that to help achieve your 2018 New Year’s resolution goals, you may need to give up sugar, particularly hidden amounts of added fructose commonly found in the typical American diet.

Cutting out sugar and fructose are not typically on our list of New Year’s resolutions, but here are some benefits to trying it:

• Feeling More Energetic
• Looking and Feeling Better
• Preventing Cavities and Periodontal disease
• Feeling Less Sluggish
• Living Longer & Having a Better Quality of Life

According to Statistic Brain, healthy eating was the top New Year’s resolution in 2017. In our opinion, the major contribution to healthy eating is limiting sugar intake in the form of added fructose. Added fructose intake accounts for a huge part of our diets, and it can be harder to avoid than most people imagine. The typical American diet is packed with hidden sugars, particularly fructose.

If you are trying to limit or eliminate sugar in your diet, you may start by cutting out fructose.  Today, we’ll discuss the best New Year’s resolutions, the health implications associated with diets high in fructose, and share 6 simple tips for cutting down the amount of fructose you consume.  

The Scope of Sugar:

The science explains why sugar is so difficult to give up

Sugars are simple carbohydrate molecules. While sugars are essential for cell and organ function, our bodies have the ability to break complex carbohydrate molecules into simple sugars for use throughout the body. Therefore, our diet does not require any form of sugar to be added for healthy organ function.  American Heart Association (AHA) states that “our bodies don’t need sugar to function properly.”

According to the Department of Health and Human Services, the average American consumes about 152 pounds of sugar, mainly added fructose per year. And this is only the average person – not just those who are consuming more sugar than their neighbor. That’s a lot of sugar!

It is important to note that all processed foods have added amounts of fructose. Fructose is not just in cakes, candy bars or donuts. Hidden amounts of sugar can be found in almost every processed food

Check out this video about why “Sugar is Killing Us” by Sikuvideo

High Fructose Diet and mental health:

A toxic combination?

Giving up sugar/added fructose could lead to more clarity in thinking and feeling happier. Whats the science behind it?

Sugar and neurons
Neurons are very sensitive cells and are not well prepared for sugar level spikes. In fact, individuals with high sugar/added fructose diet are at risk of neuronal damage, and scientists are beginning to understand how high blood sugar might cause this.

A study by researchers from the Department of Neurobiology at Huazhong University of Science and Technology in Wuhan, China, showed that consumption of high levels of sugar/added fructose led to inflammation and neuronal damage and death of neurons in the brain,  supporting the claim that sugar/added fructose toxicity has a role in brain health.

High sugar diet and depression. 
Last week, Medical News Today reported on a study published in the journal Scientific Reports that identified a greater risk of depression among men who consumed significant amounts of sugar/ added fructose in their diets.

It is important to note that all/ processed foods have added and hidden amounts of sugar/ fructose.  For example, consumption of processed and fast food – including hamburgers, pizza, and fried foods – was found to be higher in both youngsters and adults with increased rates of depression.

High Sugar/Fructose  Diets and Alzheimer’s Disease

Research over the past few years has created a growing concern over the relationship between Alzheimer’s and high sugar/ fructose diet. 

In this study, researchers compared brain samples of those with and without Alzheimer’s. The researchers found that high sugar diet causes damage to a specific enzyme. This enzyme, called Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor (MIF), is partially responsible for the body’s insulin regulation. The researchers noticed that this damage played a role in the progression of Alzheimer’s. The team is now looking at other research possibilities to further prove this link

If you want to think more clearly, to stay motivated or to feel better, cutting sugar/added fructose is important as a part of your wellness program.

High Sugar Diets and Dental Problems:

Tooth Decay and Periodontal Disease

Every human mouth is filled with good and harmful bacteria. The harmful bacteria are the ones responsible for tooth decay, cavities, and developing gum/periodontal disease. These bacteria feed on sugars. That means that when you consume high levels of fructose, you’re helping sustain the bad bacteria. If this occurs regularly, it can lead to serious tooth decay. In other words, sugar destroys tooth enamel or the outer layer of teeth. Tooth decay can also lead to future dental issues, including gum, or periodontal, disease. Our Lincoln dentist can help you to prevent and treat those dental problems.

What About High Sugar/ Fructose Diet and Medical Problems? 

Although it’s delicious, high sugar diets/added fructose are responsible for a whole array of problems besides mental health. It’s linked to adverse effects in almost every part of the human body. It has particularly violent effects on the body’s inflammation response. People with diets high in sugar have increased levels of serum CRP, TNF-alpha, proinflammatory growth factors,  body fat, higher BMI, glucose intolerance, insulin sensitivity, and lipoprotein profiles.

Cardiovascular Disease

Many studies have now confirmed a link between cardiovascular disease and high sugar diets/added fructose intake. One of these studies was a 15-year study conducted by Harvard. Researchers found that participants whose daily high sugar intake accounted for 25% or more of their daily calories were twice as likely to die of heart disease as those whose sugar/added fructose only accounted for 10% of their calories. 

Diabetes

Diabetes is another disease that most people know to be related to high sugar diets/ fructose intake. In the past few years, scientists have shown that this link is much more direct than we had once thought. 

Obesity

Most people know that high sugar diets/ added fructose consumption has a lot to do with weight gain. As of this year, 36.5% of US adults are obese, and 70.7% of US adults are overweight. This news came to us in August from the Center for Disease Control. The numbers are quite alarming, putting obesity at an all-time high in America.

Liver Disease

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) affects approximately 30 million US citizens. While sugar consumption isn’t considered “directly related” to this issue, it is a major contributor.

The overconsumption of alcohol sugar causes a buildup of fat cells, which in turn can allow fat cells to build on the liver. Ultimately, this can lead to even more severe liver disease.

More information on negative effects of sugar here: https://www.healthambition.com/negative-effects-of-sugar/

Ready to start the best New Year’s resolution? 6 Tips for Cutting Sugar/ Added Fructose from your diet.

Although we know that eating too much sugar is bad for us, cutting it out of our diets can be easier said than done. But don’t worry! We believe that with some practice and hard work, anyone can do it! Here are a few of our best tips for cutting down sugar/added fructose in 2018.

The easiest way to avoid high sugar diet/added fructose is to avoid any processed foods such as breakfast cereals, sauces (including ketchup and pasta sauce), flavored milk, wholemeal bread, and many products labeled as low fat, such as fruit yogurts.

Eating unprocessed and healthy foods is the easiest ways to avoid diets full of sugar/added fructose.

1. Read Nutrition Labels

Trying to cut out sugar, but not sure where to start? Reading nutrition labels is a good starting point. Practice reading the nutrition labels for everything you buy and consume. If you’ve had trouble cutting out sugar before, this one can be a good New Year’s resolution on its own!

Be aware that most processed foods have added sugar and the names of sugars are often hidden. Most innocent looking foods may have high levels of hidden sugar, particularly fructose.

A good example of hidden sugar on the label of The Cream of Wheat. The amount of sugar is listed as carbohydrates, but most of it is added fructose and the total amount is 54 grams, which makes it an unhealthy breakfast.

It is almost impossible to avoid processed foods with added sugars. Again, the easiest way to reduce sugar intake is to eat fresh, unprocessed foods.

2. Learn the Names of Hidden Sugar

As you read through nutrition labels, you’ll see some recurring ingredients. A few of these are disguised sugars. Things like glucose, dextrose, fructose, corn sweetener/syrup, barley malt, rice syrup, and mean table sugar are all hidden forms of sugar. Look for these on nutrition labels before you buy! 

3. Use The Grocery Store Wisely

Your time at the grocery store is crucial! If you’re careful, you can avoid keeping sugary foods and drinks around the house. In particular, be sure to use the first two tips in conjunction with this one. By spending a little extra time at the grocery store reading nutrition labels and ingredient lists, you can sugar-proof your home! But be sure to buy something healthy and sweet for times when you’re craving something sugary. For instance, keep fresh fruit around the house. Then you can get into the habit of going for an apple, orange, banana, or otherwise instead of ice cream or other sweets!

4. Set a Limit For Yourself

However, you measure them, setting personal goals or limits for sugar intake can be an effective way to cut out sugar. Many people will only allow themselves a certain amount of sugar per day. This approach requires a few extra moments reading nutrition labels. Try paying attention to the amount of sugar in anything you eat for a week at first, then see how you do!

5. Use Meal-Planning Apps as a Resource

Meal-planning apps can be a great resource, especially for those who are trying to limit sugar intake. Some apps make cutting out sugar easy by giving you the tools to count your consumption on the go. CalorieKing is a great place to start when it comes to nutrition apps and websites.

6. See a Nutritionist or Dietitian

If nothing else, you can always see a nutritionist or dietitian in Lincoln! Sage Nutrition in Lincoln, Nebraska works on nutrition habits, active and mindful living, and more. If you’re curious about their services, give them a call today!

Best New Year’s Resolution FAQs on cutting out sugar/added fructose from a diet

How much sugar is in fruit?

Wondering how much sugar there is in your favorite fruit? Well, it depends on what your favorite fruit is. In general, it’s good to keep in mind that fruits do tend to have a high level of natural sugars/fructose. With that being said, below are a few fruits and their average sugar contents per single piece.

Avocado – 1g sugar (And yes, avocados are considered a fruit!)
Apple – 19g sugar
Banana – 14g sugar
Orange – 9g sugar
Pineapple – 89g sugar (16g/cup)
Strawberry – 0.6g sugar

How much sugar is too much?

This will vary depending on several factors. For instance, men are typically allotted a little more sugar per day. Based on a 2000 calorie diet, doctors will usually recommend between 23 and 40 grams of sugar per day.

For reference, the average person usually consumes double their daily sugar limit. To truly know how much sugar you should be consuming, we recommend asking a medical professional.

How can I stop sugar cravings?

Ultimately, the best way to stop your sugar cravings is to consume less sugar. Sugarless gum makes a good replacement for sugary foods when you’re feeling the urge. You can also try setting goals for yourself. Keep track of your total sugar each day for a week, and each week reduce that number. That’ll help you cut out sugar in the long run.

What’s the best sugar substitute?

Cutting out sugar often means finding the best sugar substitute. For most, the best sugar substitute is Stevia. It’s made from a plant and doesn’t have any added chemicals. It’s also been known to improve insulin sensitivity. 

How can I lower my blood sugar naturally?

If you are at risk for or have diabetes, you know it can be tough to lower blood sugar naturally. Try filling your diet with high-fiber and high-protein foods. Foods with lots of fiber and protein tend to keep a person’s blood sugar levels down in the long run. You can also try apple cider vinegar to help you feel full and reduce your blood sugar after a meal. However, if you do use apple cider vinegar, we recommend mixing it with some warm water, as it can be very potent on its own.

How does sugar make you gain weight?

Most people are aware that sugar makes a person gain weight. Sugar/added fructose is stored as energy or fat in the body’s fat cells. It also affects the way the body releases insulin. When you consume sugar, it causes a drop in blood sugar. As a result, the body craves more sugar, in order to replenish blood sugar.

What does high blood sugar feel like?

High blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, has a handful of symptoms. These can include thirstiness, difficulty focusing, fatigue, urinating often, and headaches. Those with diabetes typically use a glucometer to test their levels. However, if you have these symptoms and aren’t diagnosed with diabetes, it’s worth seeing a doctor. High blood sugar impacts the body in a handful of ways. Higher risk of infection, reduced healing, reduced vision, and other, longer-term health effects are possible as a result of chronic high blood sugar.

Final Word on the Best New Year’s Resolution 

Now that you have some good ideas for this year’s New Year’s resolution list, will cutting out sugar/added fructose make the top? For us, it will. Whatever you decide to add to your New Year’s resolution list, we believe in you. We believe in your success in 2018, and we hope you feel empowered to succeed all year.

Our dental professionals would be happy to visit your business, community group or school with interactive and powerful presentations on improving dental and overall health. Our most popular presentation is Live Longer & Better. 

Contact our community education coordinator at nebraskafamilydentistry@gmail.com

Schedule Online
 

Best Halloween Candy: Stay Healthy on Fright Night

Another Fright Night is just around the corner. We’re all ready for another excuse to enjoy some tasty treats, but it’s important to consider our health a bit before we do. Unfortunately, the best Halloween candy isn’t always the best for us. Similarly, some of the healthiest candies might surprise you.

Today, we’ll rank the best Halloween candy to the worst, based on the sugar contents of each. We’ve also got some special tips, tricks, and treats for those looking to cut out some sugar this year.

The Best Halloween Candy Based on Sugar

Maybe it goes without saying, but it’s always good to be aware of what you put inside your body. There isn’t much out there in the way of “healthy candy.” However, you can start by learning which candies are better than others. We used CalorieKing to map out the sugar contents of 25 different candies to rank them from best to worst. Check out what we found below.

Note: Because different candies come in different portion sizes, it’s important to be aware of the portions for any candy you consume. For example, a package of two Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups makes up about 1.5 ounces. On the other hand, a roll of Smarties only contains about 0.4 ounces. To better compare the actual sugar contents of each candy, we compared them all at the one-ounce level.

We all know that the best Halloween candy is irresistible. But perhaps some candies are lower in sugars than others! If you like Nerds, notice that by consuming one ounce of Sour Patch Kids at a time, you can cut sugar intake in half. The same applies across the board. If nothing else, use the following two tips to keep your sugar intake down this Halloween:

• Eat candies that are lower in sugar content.
• Reduce the amount of candy you consume.

Both are simple to practice! Just start small and try to improve day to day or week to week. Also, remember that it’s okay to struggle. Changing dietary habits isn’t easy, especially with access to the best Halloween candy. But with a little encouragement and accountability, we believe you or your family can do it!

While inflammation is a part of the body’s natural response to foreign organisms, chronic inflammation happens when there isn’t necessarily anything foreign to fight off. Any anti-inflammatory diet is sure to help master your inflammation levels. But bingeing on candy is a surefire way to heighten the body’s inflammation response.

With that being said, the best way to eat candy is to do so in moderation. Even as a dentist in Lincoln, we’d be hard-pressed to tell patients to avoid candy altogether. Instead, you should be aware of how much candy you eat, and be informed about how much you should. Besides – if you eat less candy at a time, it’ll last much longer!

But what is it that makes sugar so bad? Like we mentioned before, high sugar consumption is related to inflammation. When a person’s internal organs are inflamed as a result of sugar, it decreases the body’s ability to fight infection. As we approach cold and flu season, this can be of special importance. When you or your child consumes a lot of sugar, they’re more susceptible to diseases that make their way throughout the body.

Consuming high-sugar foods also causes immediate spikes in insulin and blood sugar levels. This results in a blood sugar crash. A blood sugar crash causes intense hunger and cravings for more sugar or carbohydrates. All too often, these cravings and hunger cause people to consume more sugar. This is why, when a person regularly consumes high levels of sugar, it can be tough to break the habit.

Another common American problem linked with sugar is obesity. The CDC has said that obesity affects more than one-third of American adults. Obesity, in turn, is related to heart disease and a whole slew of other severe diseases.

As you can probably see, it isn’t hard to stack up reasons to avoid sugar. While we need to be honest about that, we also recognize that all this data is meaningless without a solution. To really benefit our bodies, we need to talk about how to cut out sugar and reduce inflammation.

An Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Reducing the Inflammation Response

A simple way to reduce the inflammation response is by cutting out sugar. But how can a person do this? One tip is to fill your diet with other foods that are nutritious and anti-inflammatory. While the word “diet” seems intimidating, here we’ll just use it to describe the reality of what we’re eating.

For Americans, the main descriptor of an anti-inflammatory diet is reducing sugar intake. Even the best Halloween candy can be consumed in moderation! Further, filling your diet with these other foods will benefit the cause:

Fish or Fish Oil

Fish or fish oil contains high levels of omega-3s. Omega-3s are a potent anti-inflammatory. Combined with fruits and vegetables, a regular diet of fish will fight inflammation greatly.

Seeds

Seeds are linked to improved heart health and fighting arthritis. In particular, chia seeds are a well-known anti-inflammatory that has high levels of omega-3s and omega-6s.

Nuts

Nuts are similar to the role of seeds in dietary benefit. Almonds, walnuts, and macadamia nuts all contain the fatty acids that help improve heart health and fight inflammation.

Herbs and Spices

A handful of herbs and spices also play a role in fighting inflammation. Turmeric, for instance, has been linked to the prevention of metabolic syndrome. Other helpful herbs and spices include cloves, rosemary, cayenne, basil, and cinnamon.

With all of these, you’ll notice that the sugar contents are very low. By nature of practicing an anti-inflammatory diet, you’ll begin to weed sugar out of your diet altogether. Then, you can use sugar as a treat for special occasions, and it’ll be easier to count your sugars on a given day.

You can find more anti-inflammation information here.

Hidden Sources of Sugar Beyond the Best Halloween Candy

While candy is an obvious source of sugar, many other foods and drinks are not. In an American child’s diet, there are several hidden sources of sugar beyond the best Halloween candy. Below are some of the most common sources of sugar for children.

Additionally, you can look for hidden sources of sugar in the ingredients. Some of the most common sugars in ingredients are disguised by their names. But make no mistake! The following ingredients are all forms of sugar:

Another helpful tip is to ignore the word “organic” when it comes to sugar. Although organic or raw sugar is healthier, it’s still sugar. The negative effects of consuming organic sugar are very similar to those of processed sugars.

Best Halloween Candy:
Extra Tips, Tricks, and Treats for Cutting Out Sugar

While it’s definitely helpful to know how much sugar each candy has, it isn’t the whole picture. Be sure to follow these tips to keep you and your family’s health in check this Halloween.

1. Set a candy limit for yourself or your child.

Set goals for yourself or your kids, such as, “I can only eat two pieces of candy per night.” Start with what you regularly consume (i.e. one to five pieces). Then, choose a slightly smaller amount and try to keep yourself to that amount for a week. Each week thereafter, subtract one or two pieces until you’re at a comfortable spot. This will help you enjoy your candy more when you do eat it, and it’ll last much longer!

2. Check nutrition facts and ingredient labels.

As we briefly mentioned before, nutrition facts and ingredients can be a great resource. Even if you’re eating a lot of candy, start reading nutrition facts and ingredient labels. This can be helpful for all kinds of foods. But it’s especially helpful when it comes to candy. This will help you learn what you or your family are putting into the body. It’ll also help you make changes more quickly when you’re ready to start limiting your sugar intake.

3. Get rid of as much Halloween candy as possible the night of Halloween.

On Halloween night, don’t be afraid to be generous with trick-or-treaters! This will avoid leftover candy around the house. It’ll also help your trick-or-treaters appreciate your house as they come by.

4. Visit the dentist to keep a helpful eye on your health.

Maybe we’re biased because we’re dentists in Lincoln. However, seeing your dentist twice a year will help you ensure a healthy mouth. They’ll make sure you aren’t missing spots or accidentally damaging your teeth. Ultimately, it’ll help you avoid bigger dental problems in the future!

5. Enjoy the taste; not the quantity.

You can still taste candy with just a bite! Split the candy with someone you care about, and savor the small amount for a longer time.

At the end of the day, the best Halloween candy does have sugar. This time of year, that sugar has a tendency to haunt people. Its victims are often children and teenagers. However, as Jimmy Kimmel has shown the last few years, parents are known to eat candy too!

As you limit candy intake for you and your family, don’t forget to offer yourself some grace. These are tough habits to kick, but it can be done. And although it can be very hard work, remember the reward waiting on the other side – a long life and a happy, healthy Halloween.

Don’t see your favorite Halloween candy? Share it in the comments below, and be sure to check out CalorieKing to learn how much sugar it has!

How Healthy Teeth May Stop Rheumatoid Arthritis

While the cause of rheumatoid arthritis is still unknown today, we’re already taking big steps towards tomorrow. Recent research has begun suggesting links between rheumatoid arthritis and other health factors. One of the major health factors considered is the condition of a person’s teeth.

It turns out that tooth loss and periodontal disease may predict the onset and severity of rheumatoid arthritis.

What exactly does this mean? For anyone worried about their own risk for rheumatoid arthritis, this new research offers a good rule of thumb for avoiding the disease: take care of your teeth to encourage healthy and happy joints. While the research has yet to establish any kind of certainty or causality, it has done well to offer a simple pointer to anyone trying to avoid RA.

This joint tissue is called the synovium, and it plays an integral role in the mobility of joints. The synovium is supposed to produce fluids that lubricate the joint in order to preserve mobility. However, when a person has rheumatoid arthritis, the synovium isn’t able to produce the necessary fluids to keep the joint effectively mobile.

In general, chronic inflammation has some really harsh impacts on the body. But in many cases, chronic inflammation exists silently within our bodies. When a person has chronically inflamed joints, the inflammation manifests itself much more frequently. Since rheumatoid arthritis attacks a person’s joints, those with the disease often have trouble using their hands, wrists, feet, ankles, knees, etc. Unfortunately, joints encompass a huge number of body parts which are necessary for mobility, so this disease can seriously reduce the amount a person can move.

Risk Factors for Rheumatoid Arthritis

To better understand this research, it’s important that we understand what “risk factors” are. Risk factors don’t necessarily cause a certain condition. Rather, they predict the likelihood of a certain condition, based on a handful of different criteria. Common risk factors for rheumatoid arthritis include the following:

Gender – About three times as many women suffer from RA than men.
Age – RA usually occurs in people between ages 30 and 60.
Genetics – If a patient’s family member has RA, then that patient is significantly more likely to also have RA.

In another study, researchers attempted to treat RA patients for periodontal disease. They found that treating the periodontal disease tended to reduce the degree of arthritis pain patients experienced. This meant that the treatment of periodontal disease was at least a part of the solution to the autoimmune disease.

These instances aren’t the first time in history that scientists have tried to establish a connection between periodontal disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Some research on the topic dates back to 1987, when medical doctors first attempted to document their suspicions. Since then, support has only grown for the idea that periodontal disease is connected to rheumatoid arthritis.

We must remember that everything we eat passes through our mouths before entering our bodies. That means that we’re not only subjecting our internal organs to what we eat, but also to the oral bacteria our food picks up as it enters into our digestive system. A person with untreated periodontal disease is likely putting their body in serious danger with the negative bacteria that exists inside their mouth. To reduce this risk, and the risk of developing RA, be sure to limit your sugar intake and seek excellent home-care for your teeth.

For medical news tips, article ideas for the blog, or simply to say hello, drop us a line at nebraskafamilydentistry@gmail.com.

Metal-Free Dentistry
and Why It’s So Important

In the past, dentists frequently used a mixture of metals called amalgam in fillings. This mixture was the industry standard for the placement of fillings. Even today, dentists use amalgam fillings often, despite the fact that it is known to contain a dangerous chemical. This chemical poses significant health risks to our internal organs. So what is this chemical that is used so regularly inside patients’ mouths?

The answer is mercury. Even today, trace amounts of mercury exist in dental amalgam. Many people live with dental amalgam in their mouths, unaware of the silent hazard lurking within them. Instead of letting mercury into your body, find a dentist who only uses amalgam-free fillings.

Cue the metal-free dentistry.

What is a metal-free dentistry?

A metal-free dentistry is any dental office that minimizes the use of dental amalgam in the placement of fillings. Dental offices do this to avoid exposing patients to mercury.

It’s important to note that metal-free dentistry doesn’t exactly mean a dental office that is completely free of metals. In fact, a dentist’s very instruments are made out of different kinds of metal. Similarly, a small amount of aluminum oxide is included in both porcelain fillings and composite resin fillings. And on top of these two examples, the list goes ever on. Thus, for the average person, it’s important to understand that metal-free actually means free from dental amalgam and mercury. After all, many metals have found success in the dental world without being unhealthy, like the titanium posts used in dental implants.

When looking for a metal-free dentist, you should be intent on the fact that the dentist does not use dental amalgam with mercury. Other metals used in dentistry do not pose the level of threat that dental amalgam does. Don’t hesitate to ask your dentist if they avoid the use of dental amalgam. If they do, you’re in good hands.

Biological Dentistry

The idea of a biological dentist is similar to that of a metal-free dentist. A biological dentist only uses biocompatible materials. Biocompatible materials won’t harm a person’s overall health, unlike mercury. Biological dentistry comes from a branch of dentistry in the mid-1980s. At this time, dentists attempted to treat oral health in a way that encouraged the body to heal itself. This origin of biological dentistry eventually gave way to metal-free dentistry. Because amalgam inherently damages the health of our organs, it isn’t consistent with these dental philosophies. Instead, biological and metal-free dentists use materials that empower the body’s immune system.

Dr. Kathryn Alderman

is our biological dentist and is a proud member
of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology

The mercury in dental amalgam can have some serious effects on the body. These effects are both on the mouth, and on the body’s systems as a whole. Although the ADA still considers dental amalgam a “safe dental material,” a growing body of research is showing the dangers of amalgam. Some naysayers have said that the amount of mercury in amalgam is too small to affect the body. However, since we chew with our teeth, mercury vapors are released from dental amalgam over time. These vapors flow right into our bodies through our mouth. And because amalgam is made from metal, these kinds of fillings are at a greater risk of fracturing or breaking. If that happens, mercury vapor will surely be released.

The most common alternative to dental amalgam is composite resin. Composite resin is white and blends in perfectly with a person’s teeth. These white fillings are much better for you than amalgam fillings. They don’t contain any mercury at all. In fact, all of the materials used in white fillings are completely biocompatible.

The Benefits of White Fillings

Good-looking. Compared to dental amalgam, white fillings are more aesthetic. They don’t draw attention to them like the shiny texture of amalgam. Instead, they’re white and blend right in with your teeth.

Long-lasting. While amalgam fillings tend to expand and contract due to their metal, white fillings don’t. Because of that, white fillings last longer in most cases. They also avoid the risk of expanding and breaking your tooth.

Mercury-free. Most importantly, white fillings are mercury-free. The composite resin in white fillings is made of completely biocompatible materials.

It’s up to each individual to decide if replacing amalgam fillings is for them. Personally, we think it can be worth it to replace these fillings with mercury-free fillings. The risk that mercury poses to the human body is simply too great to ignore.

Frequently Asked Questions about Metal-Free Dentistry

Why is dental amalgam still used so widely?

The ADA has still said that research is too inconclusive to rule that amalgam is unsafe. Because it’s slightly cheaper to make, dentists continue to use it. However, it also expands and contracts significantly more than white fillings. This is because amalgam is made out of metal, and thus conducts heat very efficiently.

How does metal-free dentistry affect patients with a compromised immune system?

An already-compromised immune system is placed at a greater risk in the presence of mercury. Our bodies can often resist the ill effects of mercury vapor. However, if an immune system is already compromised, the presence of mercury will make it work even harder to keep our bodies healthy.

Where can I find a mercury-free dentist near me?

Luckily for you, Nebraska Family Dentistry partners with a handful of locations throughout Lincoln. If you’re interested in seeing a mercury-free dentist, we can point you in the right direction. Click the links below to learn about that specific dentistry.

Southpointe Dental
(South Lincoln)
7940 S. 13th St. Lincoln, NE 68512
402-423-3333

To schedule an appointment with us, you can call any of the locations listed above, or you can use the form below. Whatever you do, avoid exposure to mercury, and keep your eyes out for the next set of wellness tips and tricks.