September 30, 2013

Common Dental Problems In Seniors



In fact, root caries (decay) is the most common decay experienced by seniors.  A study was done comparing different techniques of treating exposed root surfaces after brushing with a fluoride toothpaste--applying water, a chlorhexidine varnish, a sodium fluoride varnish, or a SDF solution directly to the tooth roots.  The varnishes were applied every three months and the SDF solution every 12 months.  When the Root Caries Index was calculated, all three groups had significantly lower risk for developing new root caries, compared to the (control) water only.  This simple emphasis on improvement in oral hygiene and application of the solution has great promise in the prevention of root caries in seniors.  

Source:  Evid Based Dent, 2011;12(3):70-71

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

ADA - American Dental Association



American Dental Association Council on Scientific Affairs promotes safe use of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and appropriate professional justification of CBCT imaging procedures.  The Council stated:  As with other radiographic modalities, CBCT imaging should be used only after a review of the patient's health and imaging history and the completion of a thorough clinical examination.  Dental practitioners should prescribe CBCT imaging only when they expect that the diagnostic yield will benefit patient care, enhance patient safety or improve clinical outcomes significantly.  

Source:  JADA, August, 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

Heart Attack Symptom To Be Aware Of



Sudden and unusual tiredness or lack of energy is one of the most common symptoms of heart attack in women, and one of the easiest to ignore.  It can come on suddenly or be present for days.  More than half of women having a heart attack experience muscle tiredness or weakness that is not related to exercise.

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

September 25, 2013

Splint Therapy



Just published:  a systematic review of 1,567 published randomized controlled trials in which investigators compared the effectiveness of splint therapy with that of minimal or no treatment in patients with temporomandibular disorders.  Of all of the studies reviewed, 11 proved eligible as being objective for evaluating the effectiveness of splint therapy in TMD patients.  They found:  moderate-quality evidence suggests splint therapy reduced pain.  Low to very low quality evidence showed  no significant differences  between the splint therapy and control groups in terms of  quality of life or depression.  None of the trial reports described effect on function.  Conclusions:  although overall results are promising for the reduction of pain, establishing the role of splints for patients with TMDs will require large trials with stronger safeguards against bias.  

Source:  JADA,August, 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

Staying Healthy



Healthypeople.gov is your source for information regarding the importance of oral health as an essential part of staying healthy.  Good oral health allows a person to speak, smile, smell, taste, touch, chew, swallow, and make facial expressions to show feelings and emotions.  A healthy, attractive looking smile can increase your confidence and self esteem at any age.  Poor oral health affects Americans at all life stages, from infancy through older adulthood.  Oral diseases ranging from dental decay to oral cancers cause pain and disability for millions of Americans.  Children and adolescents:  tooth decay affects more than 1 in 4 U.S. children age 2 to 5, and 1 in 2 adolescents age 12 to 15.  Adults:  1 in 7 adults age 35 to 44 has gum disease; after age 65, the rate increases to 1 in 4.  Older adults:  1 in 4 age 65 or older have lost all of their teeth.  More than 7,800 people die from oral and pharyngeal (mouth and throat) cancers each year.  A growing body of evidence has linked oral health, particularly periodontal (gum) disease, to several chronic diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.  In pregnant women, poor oral health has also been associated with premature births and low birth weight.  These conditions may be prevented in part with regular visits to the dentist.    

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

Bleaching Gels Do Not Damage Enamel Surface


Authors of a recent study have concluded that "home-use and in-office bleaching gels did not alter the concentrations of calcium and phosphorus on the enamel surface."  They studied 80 people, divided into four groups of 20, who had the bleaching agents applied to their enamel.  They collected enamel microbiopsy specimens of incisors before treatment, and then applied 10% and 20% carbamide peroxide (usual home use concentrations) and 35% or 38% hydrogen peroxide (in office concentrations).  Enamel microbiopsy specimens were collected on days 7, 14 and 21 of treatment and again 7 and 14 days after treatment.  Spectrophotometric analysis of calcium and phosphorus concentrations found the  bleaching gels did not alter the enamel surface.  

Source:  JADA, June 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

September 24, 2013

Sjogren's Syndrome



Sjogren's Syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the glands that produce tears and saliva do not function correctly.  As a result, poor salivary production causes dry mouth and lack of tears causes dry eyes.  When the symptoms become more severe, mouth dryness (xerostomia) may feel like a burning or cracking tongue, may result in an increased rate of dental decay, and difficulty swallowing.  It becomes necessary to sip fluids often both with and between meals.  The parotid glands (major salivary glands behind the jaw) may become swollen and painful.  Eye involvement is the other major manifestation.  The decreased tearing causes redness, itching, photosensitivity and a sandy or gritty feeling in the eyes.  There can also be a decrease in mucous gland secretion of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts.  One-third of patients can have symptoms outside the glands, effecting joints, muscles, lungs and kidneys.  Treatment attempts to relieve the effects of chronic dryness of the mouth and eyes by increasing the lubrication and moisturization of the affected tissues.  Artificial tears and saliva substitutes have been used.  Medications are prescribed for extraglandular symptoms.  The overall disease course of Sjogren's syndrome requires regular monitoring by a prosthodontist in conjunction with a physician. 

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 a Prosthodontist?



We see our prosthodontist because our lifestyle demands our dentures look natural, are comfortable and fit well.  Dr. Tupac is a Board Certified Prosthodontist.  A prosthodontist is a dentist recognized by the American Dental Association as a specialist in restoring and replacing teeth.  With additional education and training, prosthodontists have the capability to provide excellent results on crowns, bridges, dentures, dental implants and other cosmetic and restorative procedures.  Adapted from the American College of Prosthodontists, a professional group of which Dr. Tupac is a Fellow.  He has served on the ACP's Board of Directors for ten years, and has authored the Peer Review Manual and the Parameters of Care. 


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 Does Coffee Help Fight Diabetes?



Type 2 Diabetes


The American Diabetes Association estimates that nearly 24 million children and adults in the United States--nearly 8% of the population--have diabetes.  Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of the disease and accounts for about 90-95% of these cases.  

Now, UCLA researchers have discovered a possible molecular mechanism to explain why coffee consumption is inversely associated type 2 diabetes risk.  That is, the greater the consumption of coffee, the lesser the risk of diabetes.  Earlier work by the same researchers published in the New England Journal of Medicine had identified two mutations in the gene coding for SHBG and the effect of the mutations on the risk of developing diabetes, one increasing risk and one decreasing risk, depending on the levels of SHBG in the blood.  In the prospective Women's Health Study (WHS) of nearly 40,000 women, during a median follow-up period of ten years, 359 postmenopausal women with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes were matched with 359 control subjects by age, race, duration of follow-up, and time of blood draw.  


Sex Hormones


Plasma levels of sex hormones and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) were measured.  SHBG regulates the biological activity of the body's sex hormones, testosterone and estrogen, which have been thought to play a role in the development of type 2 diabetes.  Results:  caffeinated coffee was positively associated with SHBG but not with sex hormones.  Plasma levels of SHBG were significantly higher among women consuming four or more cups of coffee per day, compared to non-drinkers.  In contrast, neither decaffeinated coffee nor tea was associated with SHBG levels or sex hormones.  The odds-ratio of type 2 diabetes in women in the four cups of coffee a day group showed  significantly higher levels of SHBG and they were 56% less likely to develop diabetes than the non drinkers.  And those who also carried the protective copy of the SHBG gene appeared to benefit the most from coffee consumption.  The authors suggested that SHBG may account for the inverse association between coffee consumption and type 2 diabetes risk among postmenopausal women.  

The importance is that, while a mutation in the gene coding can reflect a genetic susceptibility to developing type 2 diabetes, this study shows that this protein can be influenced by dietary factors such as coffee intake in affecting diabetic risk.  


Source:  American Diabetes Association


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

September 23, 2013

Mind Body Pyramid: Qigong



Qigong--"chee gong"--is a practice that involves a series of postures and exercises, including slow, circular movements, regulated breathing, focused meditation, and self massage.  It is practiced widely in the clinics and hospitals of China.  There are a variety of styles, from gentler to vigorous.  One unique feature is its ability to train the mind to direct the body's energy, or chi, to any part of the body.  Some believe that, when moved correctly, chi can bring your body to a natural state of balance.  Qigong is believed to relax the mind, muscles, tendons, joints, and inner organs--helping to improve circulation, relieve stress and pain, and restore health.  Besides greater stamina and vitality, and improved cardiovascular, respiratory, circulatory, lymphatic and digestive function, the benefits can include:  

Lower blood pressure:  In a 20 year study, patients with hypertension were given drugs to control blood pressure, both in the control and qigong groups.  Over time, the qigong group were able to lower the use of blood pressure drugs, whereas the control group had an increase in blood pressure which required greater use of drugs.     

Enhanced immune system:  In one study, blood samples taken the day before training started and after 30 minutes of daily qigong training for one month showed a statistical difference in white blood cell counts.   

Stroke:  Over a study period of 30 years, patients practicing qigong had a 50% reduction in death from any cause, death from stroke, and sickness related to stroke, compared to the control group.  One small pilot study showed  fewer symptoms and improvement in function among fibromyalgia patients.  


For more information on energy medicine, there are more than 4,000 citations online at www.qigonginstitute.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

Macular Degeneration Risk Decreases With Vitamin D



High levels of vitamin D in the bloodstream appear to be associated with a decreased risk of developing early age-related macular degeneration among women younger than the age of 75.  Age-related macular degeneration is a chronic, late-onset disease that is the leading cause of adult irreversible vision loss, affecting approximately 9% (8.5 million) of Americans aged 40 years and older.  Researchers examined data from 1,313 women measuring serum 25(OH)D levels.  Serum 25(OH)D is the preferred biomarker for vitamin D status, as it reflects vitamin D exposure from both oral sources and sunlight.   


Predispose Disease


Results:  in women younger than 75, no relationship was observed using self reported time spent in direct sunlight.  Amazingly though, women who consumed the most vitamin D had a 59% decreased odds of developing early age related macular degeneration compared to women who consumed the least vitamin D.  The top food sources of vitamin D in the sample were milk, fish, fortified margarine and fortified cereal.  This is another example of how, even with potential genetic factors that may predispose disease, lifestyle and dietary habits influence health and longevity.


Source:  Arch Ophthalmol.2011;129(4):481-489
 

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

Resources Regarding Drug Safety During Pregnancy



Two-thirds of women take prescription medications during pregnancy or breast feeding.  This still causes anxiety and misunderstanding regarding whether the medications may harm the fetus or cause a birth defect.  Therefore, there are key medication considerations for:  analgesics and anti-inflammatories, antibiotics, local anesthetics, sedatives and emergency medications.  There are excellent online resources regarding drug safety in pregnancy:  Breast feeding online.

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

September 19, 2013

Travel Vaccinations



Have you scheduled a visit to your doctor or a travel medicine provider?  Ideally, set one up 4 to 6 weeks before your trip.  Most vaccines take time to become effective in your body and some vaccines must be given in a series over a period of days or sometimes weeks.  If it is less than 4 weeks before you leave, you should still see your doctor.  You might still benefit from shots or medications and other information about how to protect yourself from illness and injury while traveling. Are you aware of which types of vaccinations you or those traveling with you may need?  CDC divides vaccines for travel into three categories:  routine, recommended, and required.  While your doctor will tell you which ones you should have, it's best to be aware of them ahead of time. 

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

Orthodontic Treatment



Can orthodontic treatment improve adolescent's esthetic self-perception?  That question was central to a long term study initiated in 2006 at Brazil's Rio de Janeiro State University orthodontic clinic.  Results of the study were published in the June 2012 edition of the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics.  The treatment group for the study consisted of 92 patients ranging in age from 12 to 15 years.  The study included a control group of 226 untreated adolescents, 124 of whom were attending public school and had never undergone or sought orthodontic care.  The index of orthodontic treatment need was used to assess malocclusion severity, esthetic status (measured by an orthodontist) and esthetic self perception.  All the study subjects--the treatment group, the waiting group and the school group--were interviewed three times over a period of two years.  In the end, the researchers found that "fixed orthodontic treatment improved the esthetic self perceptions in Brazilian adolescents aged 12 to 15 years who sought orthodontic care."  They also found that those who did not receive care "had significantly worse self ratings," an outcome only partly influenced by the severity of their malocclusion.  


Source:  Journal of the American Dental AssociationSpecialty Scan  


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

Radiation Therapy



If you are going to have radiation therapy for cancer of the head or neck, your oral exam play an important part of your therapy.  One month before therapy, there will be an oral health examination  and prophylaxis.  Any necessary dental treatment will be scheduled in consultation with the radiation oncologist.  Present or potential problem teeth in the proposed radiation field will be extracted, allowing at least 14 days of healing for any oral surgical procedure.  To prevent tooth demineralization and radiation decay, custom carrier trays will be fabricated to cover all tooth structures for daily home application of fluoride gel, beginning before the initiation of therapy.  Close attention is paid to keeping your teeth clean, your mouth moist, and watching for any signs of tissue irritation or infection.  Sometimes it is advisable to not wear any removable appliances during this period.  For the  first six months, cleaning can be necessary as often as every 4 to 8 weeks.  Muscle exercises may be useful for painful or weak chewing muscles.  Continued fluoride application for remaining teeth is recommended if dry mouth persists, even if this is a lifelong effort.  Use of dentures or other removable appliances may be limited by the friability of the tissues.  Any tooth extraction or surgery on irradiated bone should be conservative, using antibiotic coverage and possible hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

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

September 18, 2013

Restore Your Smile And Confidence With Dental Implants



Robert Tupac assisted Martha Sanger, periodontist, in the placement of implants and an immediate fixed provisional bridge, at he same time the patient's lower teeth were removed.  This collaboration gives patients in the Central Valley the option of going from an arch of failing natural teeth to an implant supported screw retained provisional bridge in a single appointment.  Both Dr. Sanger and Dr. Tupac are Nobel Biocare partners.

If you or a loved one experience the embarrassment of slipping dentures, an uncomfortable denture fit, lack confidence in speaking and/or laughing Dr. Tupac can provide a solution in a single day.  Call Dr. Tupac and find out how you can enjoy eating and speaking again with confidence.

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

Osstell ISQ



We uncovered a Nobel Replace Select implant, submerged for four months in grafted (Bio-Oss) bone, and its Osstell ISQ was 74, making it eligible for permanent restoration.  Having used the Osstell device for over eight years, we find it a consistent, reliable and objective device to measure implant stability.  Learn more at www.drtupac.com and www.nobelbiocare.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

Immunizations Are Not Just For Kids



The Centers for Disease Control encourages all people to protect their health by being immunized against infectious diseases.  Did you know adults need to be vaccinated also?  Immunizations are NOT just for kids!  Regardless of your age, we ALL need immunizations to keep us healthy.  With time, immunity from childhood vaccines can fade and you may be at risk for new and different diseases.  With adulthood comes responsibility, including the need to protect ourselves and our loved ones.  The specific immunizations you need as an adult are determined by factors such as your age, lifestyle, high-risk conditions, type and locations of travel, and previous immunizations.  Throughout your adult life, you need immunizations to get and maintain protection.  Tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough) (for all adults who have not previously received the Tdap vaccine).  Hepatitis B infection (for adults who have diabetes or are at risk for hepatitis B).  Other vaccinations you may need include those that protect against human papillomavirus (which can cause certain cancers), hepatitis A, chickenpox (varicella), and measles, mumps and rubella.  Ask your doctor which vaccines are recommended for 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

September 17, 2013

Oral Cancer Ups Suicide Risk



Cancers combined for men, women, and children continued to decline in the United States between 2004 and 2008, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, as reported in the May 2012 issue of the journal CANCER. 

The overall rate of new cancer diagnoses (or incidence) among men decreased by an average of 0.6% per year between 2004 and 2008; and for women by 0.5% per year from 1998 to 2006, with level rates from 2006 to 2008.  The special feature section highlights the effects of excess weight and lack of physical activity on cancer risk.  Esophageal adenocarcinoma, cancers of the colon and rectum, kidney cancer, pancreatic cancer, endometrial cancer, and breast cancer among postmenopausal women are associated with being overweight or obese.  Several of these cancers also are associated with not being sufficiently physically active.  For more than 30 years, excess weight, insufficient physical activity, and an unhealthy diet have been second only to tobacco as preventable causes of disease and death in the United States.  The journal notes that continued progress against cancer in the United States will require individual and community efforts to promote healthy weight and sufficient physical activity among youth and adults. 


Source:  CDC, March 28, 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

A, B, C, D, E's of Melanoma



Dr. Jerry Brewer, Mayo Clinic Dermatologist, suggests these guides for skin self-exams:  
  • A--asymmetry:  one side of a mole or dark spot looks different from the other side
  • B--border:  instead of being circular or oval, the mole has a jagged edge  
  • C--color:  the mole has more than one color, a dark area, a light area or the colors red, white or blue within it  
  • D--diameter:  the mole is larger than 6 mm across, roughly the size of a pencil eraser
  • E--evolution:  any other changes are noted in the mole, even if the change isn't part of the above.  Any itching or bleeding in a mole is also important.  

The summer sun can cause a normal mole to change into a malignant one.


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

Tanning Beds Increases Melanoma in Young Adults



Tanning beds are bad news for younger people, and still 40% of them do it!  In Mayo ClinicProceedings, a study reports that between the years 1970 and 2009 the incidence of melanoma increased eightfold among young women and fourfold among young men between the ages of 18 and 39.  Besides the tendency of younger skin to be vulnerable and younger people less likely to use sunscreen protection, the researchers linked the risk of melanoma to tanning-bed use.  Tanning beds can give seven times the dose of UV radiation as the sun.  In 2009, the International Agency of Researchon Cancer declared tanning beds a human carcinogen, moving them into the top cancer-risk category alongside cigarettes.  


Source: Time Magazine 


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

September 16, 2013

Salivary Test Available For Hepatitis B


Viral hepatitis is one of the world's most common viral illnesses.  The role of saliva in the transmission of Hepatitis B makes dental personnel particularly vulnerable to this infection.  A study in Compendium, 3/2012, compared a group of known seropositive hepatitis B patients to a control group without the disease.  The HBsAg (hepatitis specific antigen) was found in the saliva of 74.9% of the seropositive patients.  The saliva in the control group was accurate in 100% of the patients.  While HBsAg is considered the hallmark of HBV infection, serum collection and testing is potentially infectious and time consuming.  In addition, up to 80% of infected patients may have only subclinical symptoms.  The conclusions of this study were that saliva collection is easy and non-invasive and an accurate method of detection of the hepatitis B antigen and is a promising tool for diagnostic studies. 

Salivary diagnostics is becoming a more frequent method for finding disease. 


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

Lupus and Lung Complications Is Common



According to the Johns Hopkins Lupus Center, about 50% of people with Lupus will experience lung issues during the course of their disease.  Lupus Now explains the connection between Lupus and lungs.  Although the underlying connective tissue disease is the root cause of lupus-related lung problems, the exact mechanism can be different for each of the most common conditions.  The most common is pleurisy (inflammation of a membrane on the outside of the lungs and inside of the chest cavity), which causes a fluid buildup and pain. Sometimes the lung tissue itself is involved.  Blood clots in the lungs present another possible complication.  High blood pressure in the lungs' blood vessels can be present.  The good news is that diagnosing these potentially life-threatening conditions is usually straightforward, and treatment is successful in most conditions, especially if caught early.  The two common symptoms are shortness of breath and pain with breathing.  Each lung condition has its own symptoms and diagnostic methods.  Treatment focuses on both the underlying lupus and the specific lung problem.  Your lupus doctor and your pulmonologist are equipped to manage these issues to keep you healthy! 

Source:  Lupus Now

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

Tip for Staying Healthy: Hand Washing with Soap and Water



The truth is, there's no substitute.  Frequent hand-washing is one of the best ways to avoid getting sick and spreading illness.  It only requires soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer--a cleanser that doesn't require water.  As you touch people, surfaces and objects throughout the day, your hands accumulate germs.  By touching your eyes, nose or mouth, you can infect yourself.  Washing your hands helps limit the transfer of bacteria, viruses and other microbes.  

Always wash hands before:  preparing food or eating, treating wounds or giving medicine or caring for a sick or injured person, or inserting or removing contact lenses.  Always wash hands after:  preparing food (especially raw meat or poultry), using the toilet or changing a diaper, touching an animal or anything the animal has contacted, blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing into your hands, treating wounds, caring for a sick or injured person, handling garbage or anything that can be contaminated such as a cleaning cloth or soiled shoes.

How:  the best way to wash your hands is with soap and water.  Wet your hands with running water, apply liquid or bar soap, lather well, rub your hands together vigorously for at least 20 seconds getting all surfaces (back of hand, wrists, between your fingers and under your nails), rinse well, and dry with a clean or disposable towel or air dryer.  If possible, use your towel to turn off the faucet.

Antibacterial soap is no more effective than regular soap at killing germs.  Hand sanitizers must be at least 60% alcohol and are not as effective against all germs.  


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

September 12, 2013

Late-Night Snack Cravings Are Natural



A study published in the journal Obesity found that the body's internal clock, the circadian system, increases hunger and cravings for sweet, starchy and salty foods in the evenings.  Some scientists even think this craving goes as far back as the days of the caveman, when eating at night increased the body's nutritional storage.  In the present day, however, it's for better or worse!  Since consuming more calories in the evening predisposes people to more energy storage, larger meals before sleep tend to be associated with weight gain.

For more details on this interesting study, see: www.eurekalert.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

Popular Bisphosphonates and Risk of Eye Disorders: Ask Your Doctor



A report in the Canadian MedicalAssociation Journal says women taking the popular bisphosphonate drugs to prevent osteoporosis have a 45% increased risk of serious inflammatory eye disorders such as uveitis and scleritis.  These drugs, such as fosomax, are the most common form of medication taken long term by millions of women in a bid to prevent the thinning of bones caused by osteoporosis.  Doctors and patients should be aware of signs such as pain, redness and blurred vision in one or both eyes.  Usually, discontinuing the drug and prompt medical treatment reverses the symptoms.  Other studies have suggested long term use of bisphosphonates might double the risk of esophageal cancer, or cause such side effects as unusual fractures and irregular heartbeats.  Though rare, the adverse side effects must always be taken into consideration.  There is some evidence in the literature that the maximum benefit of bisphosphonate therapy is achieved after two years of 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

Oral Health Affects Overall Health--the Details



Did you know that your oral health can offer clues to your overall health?  Or that problems in your mouth can affect the rest of your body?  What's the connection?  Your mouth is teeming with bacteria, viruses, fungi--most of them harmless.  Remember, the digestive process starts in your mouth.  Normally good oral health care keeps them under control.  However, if out of control, they can cause infections, tooth decay and gum disease.  If the normal balance of these "bugs" is disrupted or your mouth's protective barriers are breached (cuts in soft tissue, holes in teeth, etc.), bacteria may enter your bloodstream.  

Oral health may affect:
Your heart:  if you have a weak immune system or a damaged heart valve, bacteria in your bloodstream may cause an infection of the inner lining of the heart (endocarditis).  

Cardiovascular disease:  some research suggests heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke may be linked to the oral bacteria from chronic gum disease.  

Pregnancy and birth:  gum disease has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.  

Diabetes:  this disease reduces the body's resistance to infection --putting the gums at risk.  Inadequate blood sugar control leads to gum infections and bone loss around teeth.  Uncontrolled diabetics have greater tooth loss than people who have good sugar control.  

HIV/AIDS:  painful soft tissue lesions are common.  

Osteoporosis:  which causes bones to become weak and brittle, may be associated with periodontal bone loss and tooth loss.  

Alzheimer's disease:  tooth loss before age 35 may be a risk factor.  Protect your oral health by practicing good oral hygiene every day, brushing twice, flossing, replacing your toothbrush every three to four months, eating a healthy diet and limit between-meal snacks.

Regular dental checkups and awareness of signs or symptoms of oral disease is an investment in your overall health.  


Source:  Mayo Clinic  

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

September 11, 2013

Do You Burn and Peel?



People with certain risk factors are more likely than others to develop skin cancer. Risk factors vary for different types of skin cancer, but some general risk factors are having:

  • A lighter natural skin color.
  • Family history of skin cancer.
  • A personal history of skin cancer.
  • Exposure to the sun through work and play.
  • A history of sunburns early in life.
  • A history of indoor tanning.
  • Skin that burns, freckles, reddens easily, or becomes painful in the sun.
  • Blue or green eyes.
  • Blond or red hair.
  • Certain types and a large number of moles.

Having had squamous cell carcinoma of the skin twice myself, I can lay claim to at least half of the risk factors on the list.

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