Important Prescription Drug Information

My Medicines Infographic | FDA.gov

82% of adults take one or more prescription drugs weekly.

Check out this great infographic  I found on twitter:  go.usa.gov/4kd3
It talks about the importance of reading prescription labels, keeping an updated medications list, asking questions about your meds, how to avoid problems, and some various facts about prescription drugs in the US.





Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

The full mouth rehabilitation specialists

What full mouth rehabilitation needs 

Prosthodontists are specialists in restoring broken down teeth and fixing your bite. This young
man needed root canals, gum treatments and crown and bridgework. Check out the result!

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
 Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

How being active can make you live longer

                                                                           Another Reason To Be Active!

According to a study published online Jan. 22 in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, recreational physical activity cuts mortality in colorectal cancer survivors.

As reported in Chemotherapy Advisor. An American Cancer Society study followed 2,293 adults with invasive, non-metastatic colorectal cancer for a maximum follow-up of 16.1 years.
They found significantly lower all-cause mortality for those engaged in recreational physical activity and higher mortality for those who spent more leisure time sitting.

See the details at www.chemotherapyadvisor.com

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Picture perfect smile with veneers

Porcelain Veneers

Want your front teeth to be white and straight?  These four front teeth have porcelain veneers.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Replacing An Old Bridge With Prosthodontics

Replacing An Old Bridge

Prosthodontists are specialists in the latest technology and materials to make sure replacement bridgework looks, fits and functions better.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Do You Drive To Music?

Here's and interesting study done about what music is the best (or worst) to drive to that I found on twitter - http://n.pr/WXrhhC Enjoy!





Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Single Tooth Prosthodontics

Restoring a single front tooth can be one of the most difficult tasks in dentistry.  In our Prosthodontic office, with our in-house master technicians, we have the ability to tackle aesthetically demanding situations.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Ever Heard of "Chemo Brain"?

Have you ever heard of "Chemo Brain"?

I regularly read "Chemotherapy Advisor," a terrific newsletter on current trends and treatments in cancer therapy.  It is a great source of clinical trials and drug information, and the sociological issues surrounding cancer patients and their caregivers.  One article mentioned 'chemo brain' and, wanting to know more, I went to the Mayo Clinic website to find out about it.

Chemo Brain

'Chemo brain' is a "common term used by cancer survivors to describe thinking and memory problems that can occur after cancer treatment."  This cognitive dysfunction is exacerbated by fatigue, and affects all chemotherapy patients to varying degrees.  Scientists are studying therapeutic interventions targeting fatigue that may improve cognitive function and reduce the stress of 'chemo brain' throughout the course of treatment.


For more information, check it out at www.mayoclinic.com



Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

The Best Prosthodontic Care We Can Give in Bakersfield, CA!

Each dental office you may visit has its own character.  That character is often defined in the office's mission statement, which reflects the doctor's and team's attitudes towards patients, their dental health, and the manner in which they will be cared for.  In ours, our goal is to be empathetic regarding your dental needs.

Time:  

We strive to be well rested and have the patience to listen to all you have to say.

Objective:

We can't change the past and we won't make judgments about it.  We will use our energy in a positive direction for you.

Choices: 

We offer the balance of current knowledge and techniques, up to date technology, and long term clinical experience.  Our specialty training offers you options to choose from. We consider examination, diagnosis and treatment planning. The foundation of our relationship with new patients and a key to successful treatment.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Toothpaste Choices Complicated?

How Toothpaste is Specialized

Many years ago, the biggest benefits of using toothpaste were that it tasted good and provided some detergent action to help clean your teeth.  Not any more!  Nowadays, toothpastes are much more complicated as science has created additives to address specific dental needs.

Toothpaste Additives and their Abilities 

• whitening:  additions to toothpaste, such as peroxide, baking soda, or other solutions, to whiten teeth through brushing, maintain a white smile after tooth bleaching procedures, or removing stains.
• sensitivity:  formulas that are less abrasive in their cleaning power, or contain chemicals like potassium nitrate that can penetrate tooth structure to reduce tooth sensitivity.
• remineralizing:  as part of "minimally invasive" dentistry,  these re-harden tooth surfaces as a treatment for beginning decay.  These substances are fluoride (common to most toothpastes), xylitol as a stimulant for calcium phosphate, or casein phosphopeptides.
• fluoride:  added to prevent tooth decay and enhance remineralization, often with added calcium.
• children's:  lower fluoride levels so they may be swallowed, and less abrasive and free of artificial colors or dyes.

Sometimes toothpastes claim to help freshen breath, although the process of brushing in and of itself makes your mouth cleaner and breath more appealing.

Natural toothpastes, like Tom's of Maine, are chemical free and made of only "natural" ingredients.
There is a toothpaste available for your individual needs!


Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Invest In Helping Yourself

How Caregivers work full time

My Dad has been hospitalized for major surgeries three times in the
last two years.  I always ask my Mom, during those times, if she's
eating well and sleeping well.

As a caregiver (not caretaker), Mom provides emotional and physical
care for my Dad.  It's a full time job, and I know she puts her own
needs or feelings aside a lot of the time.  I remind her that taking good
care of herself makes her better equipped to handle her care giving
responsibilities.

Fortunately, these days there are agencies that provide resources for
assistance and support.  Some of it is even voluntary.  They also help
Mom learn about Dad's diagnosis and treatment, so she can make
informed decisions.

I encourage her to stay on top of her own medical checkups, screenings
and medications, so she stays healthy.  I also encourage her to try to
find some time she can do things by and for herself--a kind of
worry-free zone.

As a caregiver, I want Mom to give herself credit for all of her hard work.


Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Psoriasis: Common Skin Disorder

Psoriasis Symptoms

A friend and business associate has developed a serious case of psoriasis in the last year.  It's a common skin disease that affects the life cycle of skin cells, and usually appears as red patches covered with silvery scales. These patches can be painful, itch or burn, and the dry skin may crack or bleed.

Severity of Psoriasis

The disease affected my friend's hands so severely that she is on medical leave to allow for treatment.
If you have skin lesions that you are worried about, your doctor can examine you and provide a definitive diagnosis on the basis of your history and even take a biopsy.  There are topical and systemic medications available to improve psoriasis symptoms.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Dental Implants The Secure Solution

Too loose for use

Just yesterday, we had two new patients who were wearing upper removable partials replacing some missing front teeth.  Their stories were similar:  every few years their gums change and the partials had to be remade. The partials moved around and they were self-conscious that people could tell the teeth were loose.  The movement made them guarded with their smiles and speech, because they had to hold the partials in place as they talked.  There were some foods that were best avoided.

Implant the Quality in your Life

Fortunately, as long as you are healthy, it's never too late for dental implants.  Teeth on implants are secure and comfortable.  By allowing you to smile, speak and eat with confidence, they improve your quality of life.

If you are missing teeth and are interested in this solution, give us a call!


Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

How to Lower the Risk of Repeat Heart Attacks

The diet's role in heart disease

There was a terrific article by Jennifer Corbett Dooren in the Wall Street Journal about this subject. She correctly states that patients with heart disease frequently assume that medication is enough to reduce the risk of a repeat heart attack of stroke, but details a large new  five-year study of 32,000 people in 40 countries that shows the preventive power of a healthy diet.

How a healthy diet leads to a healthy heart

That study found that people with the healthiest diets--fruit, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and fish-- were 35% less likely to die from a repeat heart attack or stroke.  They were also 28% less likely to develop congestive heart failure, 14% less likely to have an additional heart attack and 19% less likely to have a stroke. Since heart disease is the top killer of Americans, according to the American Heart Association, the article details of the diet recommendations of the researchers.

The complete article is available at online.wsj.com/ health and wellness, Dec. 3, 2012.


Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

How Breath Tests Can Detect Cancer

Breath tests for lung cancer

The October issue of Journal of Thoracic Oncology, as reported in the JADA describes a pilot study of 72
patients who had pulmonary nodules. 

Researchers collected exhaled breath and analyzed the exhaled organic compounds, and patients also underwent a combination of other diagnostic procedures,as required, for a final diagnosis.
The breath analysis correctly identified the 53 pulmonary nodules that were malignant and the 19 that were benign.  In addition, they were able to discriminate between adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma and between early-stage and advanced disease.

In the future, the non-invasive test could be used to define lesions earlier and facilitate faster treatment.

Source:  JADA, Dec 2012


Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Do Patients with Prosthetic Joints Need Antibiotic Premedication?

According to the Science and Technology Updates of the American Dental Association,  the ADA and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) found that there is insufficient evidence to recommend the routine use of antibiotics for patients with orthopedic implants to prevent infections prior to having dental procedures because there is no direct evidence that routine dental procedures cause prosthetic joint infections.

The ADA's Web page about Antibiotic Prophylaxis has information regarding the new clinical practice guidelines.

As always, if you are a patient with an artificial joint, insist your dentist contact your physician to determine the necessity of antibiotic premedication before dental procedures.


Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

How Short Implants Succeed

Dr. Sarah Gray reports, in the January 2013 ADA Journal, on a systematic review of the prognosis of short  dental implants placed in partially edentulous patients. The authors reviewed 29 studies of 2,611 short implants.

Their conclusions were that:

• short implants in the upper jaw had a significantly higher failure rate than the lower jaw
• longer implants had a higher survival rate
• failure rates were higher in patients who smoked
• neither implant surface roughness nor bone augmentation had a significant effect on survival rate

For more information, see: www.jada.ada.org

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Early Detection of Colorectal Cancer

How Important Screening really is

Last year I had another colonoscipy.  It was easy! Even though colorectal cancer (colon or rectum) is
the third most common cancer among men and women in the United States, it is highly treatable
if found early.

What is the Preferred Screening? 

A colonoscopy is the best screening test available for colorectal cancer, and it even prevents many
of these cancers.  It is an examination of the lining of the entire colon, using a flexible tube (colonoscope)
that has a tiny video camera and light at the end that sends images to a video monitor.  If polyps (precursors
to cancer) are found by your doctor, they can be removed immediately.  With a little propophol to sleep, the whole thing took 20 minutes.  No narcotics, no pain; just get up and walk out of there 30 to 45 minutes after it's finished. The disease is more common over the age of 50, and there are some specific risk factors that can be identified.  Google possible symptoms, if you have any concerns.


Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
 Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Melanoma: The "ABCDEs" of Moles

How Serious is Melanoma?

Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer.  The biggest risk factor is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, from the sun and tanning beds.  People with fair skin and freckles, light hair and eye color, who have a large number of ordinary moles, who have a family history of melanoma, or people who have had other kinds of skin cancer are at a higher risk for developing melanoma.

Always Remember Your ABCDE's 

A monthly skin self-examination should look out for:

• Asymmetrical: is the mole oddly shaped?
• Border: does the mole have irregular or vaguely defined borders?
• Color: is the coloring uneven or multiple colors?
• Diameter: is it larger than a pencil eraser or is it growing in size?
• Evolution: has it grown or changed in any way?

If any of your moles fit the above criteria, ask your doctor to check them out.

Source:  www.HealthCentral.com/CancerStages

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Treatment Made Easy for Dental Phobics

How Feeling Nervous is Common

For more than 35 years, Dr. Tupac has treated patients who require intravenous sedation and anesthesia for their dental work.  Many patients are afraid of going for dental care, and their fear becomes compounded over time as their dental problems multiply.  Their initial anxiety can turn into a true phobia.  These patients can be given appropriate anesthetics, by a trained oral surgeon or dental anesthesiologist in Dr. Tupac's office, that allows them to be relaxed and comfortable or fully asleep as the dental treatment is done.

How you can Benefit from Sedation

Anesthesia such as this benefits anxious patients, those with phobias about needles, an inability to comply with necessary treatment, low or altered pain threshold, difficulty getting numb, an overactive gag reflex, and significant medical conditions which require more sophisticated monitoring for safety. Patients who desire to be stress-free and comfortable this way may inquire at the office.
 
Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

What researchers have found about oral health

How oral health leads to your heart

Scientific research has shown the relationship between oral health and heart disease, diabetes, premature birth, Alzheimer's disease, infertility and even erectile dysfunction. www.prevention.com has tips for oral care and protecting your teeth, as well as remedies for the prevention of gum disease. Necessary vitamin intake, and foods that are best for protecting your healthy smile.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

How Baby Boomers and Hepatitis C are Related

Baby Boomer Fact

The CDC has published a fact sheet on Hepatitis C. More than 75% of adults with Hepatitis C are baby boomers, born between 1945 and 1965.  Most of them do not know they are infected.

Five Facts

• baby boomers are five times more likely to be infected
• liver disease and cancer, and Hepatitis C deaths are rising
• as baby boomers age, the chances of development are greater
• testing will facilitate lifesaving care and treatment
• early diagnosis can  prevent liver disease

How Hepatitis C Can Lurk

Infection with the Hepatitis C virus can cause no symptoms and people can live with an infection
for many years.  It can be successfully treated with medication.

Learn more at: CDC.gov

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Get a Bone Density Test

How to check your bones

A bone density test measures your bone strength and if you are at risk for osteoporosis. The test is painless and is like an x-ray scan of your body and takes about 15 minutes.

If you are a woman age 65 or older, schedule a bone density test.  If you are a woman between 50 and 64, ask your doctor if you need one.  If you are a man over 65, discuss it with your doctor.

Osteoporosis is a bone disease that has no signs or symptoms.  It weakens bones and makes them more likely to break, especially bones in the hip, spine and wrist.  It is most common in older women.  One in two women and one in four men over age 50 will break a bone in their lifetime because of osteoporosis.

To protect your bone health, get enough calcium and vitamin D.  The calcium shopping list includes low fat or fat free milk, cheese and yogurt, almonds, broccoli and greens, orange juice with added calcium, and calcium supplements.Get enough vitamin D from salmon or tuna, fat free or low fat milk with vitamin D, some cereals and juices and yogurt with added vitamin D, and vitamin D supplements.

Stay active!  Physical activity slows bone loss.  Moderate aerobic activity and strengthening exercises can make a big difference.

Source:  National Health Information Center


Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

How to Take Charge of Your Health Care

It takes two

The more you play an active role in your health care, the better quality of care you will receive.
Most people depend upon different doctors, nurses, pharmacists and insurance programs for their health care.  It's a team effort, and you (the consumer-patient) are the most important member of the team.
To take charge, follow these steps:

1. Keep track of important health information, kept in one place.  Include: name, birth date, blood type, emergency names and phone numbers, list of medical providers, dates of checkups and tests, list of shots received, health conditions, allergies and current medications.
2. Know your family health history.
3. Keep regular checkups, because early detection means easier treatment.
4. Make the most of your doctor visits:  take a list of questions to ask, take notes on your doctor's answers, talk about changes wince your last visit, and possibly bring a relative or friend with you.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

What Is It About Coffee?

The statistics about coffee are significant

• 2 cups/day cuts overall risk of dying by 10%
• 2 cups/day may decrease odds of developing heart failure
• 3 cups/day may prevent Alzheimer's
• 4 cups/day reduces risk of dying from throat cancer by 50%

The powers of coffee

Researchers can't say why coffee has this association, but they note
that coffee contains a variety of antioxidants, polyphenols and other
biologically active compounds that may help protect against
development or progression of cancers.

Source:  American Journal of Epidemiology

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

If You Are A New Patient, You Deserve...

The Best Prosthodontic Care We Can Give in Bakersfield, CA!

Each dental office you may visit has its own character.  That character is often defined in the office's mission statement, which reflects the doctor's and team's attitudes towards patients, their dental health, and the manner in which they will be cared for.  In ours, our goal is to be empathetic regarding your dental needs.

Time:   
We strive to be well rested and have the patience to listen to all you have to say.

Objective:
We can't change the past and we won't make judgments about it.  We will use our energy in a positive direction for you.

Choices:  
We offer the balance of current knowledge and techniques, up to date technology, and long term clinical experience.  Our specialty training offers you options to choose from. We consider examination, diagnosis and treatment planning. The foundation of our relationship with new patients and a key to successful treatment.


Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

"How to" Tips During Cold and Flu Season

How to protect yourself during the cold months

The Lupus Foundation published recommendations to protect yourself during the cold and flu season.
This is especially important for lupus patients, because, a cold or the flu not only make you feel horrible from the illness, but also has the potential to cause a flare or increase the activity of the lupus.  The helpful hints are applicable to all of us, also.  They are:

• avoid people who are sick, specifically personal contact
• wash all surfaces of hands and fingers frequently with hot, soapy water for at least 15 seconds
• public surfaces--bathrooms, office equipment, store countertops, gas pump handles, and any surface in restaurants--can expose you to germs
• avoid touching your eyes, nose, mouth
• shield coughs with the crook of your arm instead of your hands when coughing or sneezing
• stay home from work if sick

Source:  www.lupus.org

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Board Certified In Prosthodontics

What does it mean to be Board Certified?

After completing an accredited residency program, prosthodontists have the option of applying for Board certification in the specialty.  The process, which is administered by the American Board of Prosthodontics, is similar to that in other dental and medical fields. Subsequent to completing a comprehensive written examination, candidates must present three patient cases and defend their diagnosis, treatment, and results to a panel of examiners, all of whom are experienced Board Certified prosthodontists.

Certification is just the beginning

After successfully challenging the multiple part process, which requires approximately four years, the prosthodontist becomes certified and is recognized as a Diplomate of the American Board of Prosthodontics.  To maintain their certification, Diplomates must demonstrate their commitment to their continuing professional education by attending or presenting scientific lectures or publishing articles or textbook chapters.

Source:  American Board of Prosthodontics


Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309