It Took An Attitude Adjustment

Attitude Adjustment

Ask people who have quit smoking, and despite the commercials for all the smoking cessation medications and programs, they all say the same thing:  regardless of what aids they used, what really made the difference is that they made the decision to quit.  Look into alcohol/addiction treatment and even though they are considered diseases, you find there is no medical cure for them and you learn from the Alcoholics or Narcotics Anonymous models that not drinking or taking drugs requires a behavioral change.

When it comes to losing weight and getting in shape, you can do it with a strict diet and exercise program, but how do you keep the program going?  And if you get to your goal, how do you maintain it?  The answer to all of the above is "it takes an attitude adjustment".  What reinforces the new behavior is appreciation and enjoyment of the benefits of your new self.  And so it goes with dental care--keeping your mouth healthy benefits your overall health, makes you feel good and look good, and gives you something to smile about!

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

Beatrice Our Hygienist: Gum Disease Awareness

Periodontal Disease

Gum disease affects more adults than cancer, diabetes or heart disease.  With 74% of the population affected, only half are aware of it.  Gum disease has long been associated with heart disease, strokes, pre-term births, and low birth weights.  Now there are several connections between overall health and overall wellness.  There are links to obesity, erectile dysfunction, pancreatic cancer, diabetes, dementia and rheumatoid arthritis.

When you have an appointment with Beatrice, our super-hygienist, you are thoroughly examined for the signs and symptoms of gingivitis and periodontal disease.  Together, she and Dr. Tupac determine the necessary treatment to bring your gums to a healthy condition and we give you the techniques and implements to maintain their health, along with regular maintenance visits with Bea.


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