Causes of Bad Breath

What causes bad breath?

Oral causes are responsible for 76% of oral malodor (bad breath).  The main sources are:

• tongue coating accounts for 43% of it
• gingivitis and periodontitis accounts for 18%

The Journal of Clinical Periodontology  reported on a study from the halitosis clinic at the Catholic University Leuven in Belgium.  A protocol for not eating onions, garlic or spicy food, not drinking coffee or alcohol or smoking cigarettes, and not using chewing gum, mints, drops, scents or mouthrinses before the breath measurements was established.  Medical history, oral hygiene habits, ENT problems and diet were recorded.  A clinical examination was performed, including and organoleptic (smelling of the breath) test and an evaluation of tongue coating visually and by weighing the scrapings from the back of the tongue.

Results for bad breath

The results showed clear correlations between organoleptic scores and tongue coating scores, weight of tongue scrapings, and the objective measure of volatile sulphur compounds by the OralChroma device.  In addition, subjects who smoked, did not floss between their teeth or had a diet of predominantly soft food had more tongue coating and higher oral malodor scores.

J Clin Perio 40:180-185, 2013, as reported in Dentaltown news


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

Ready To Start Exercising?

Exercise Program

Spring is here and summer is coming soon.  More of us will be outdoors and we will want to take advantage of it by starting to exercise or to exercise more.  We're all different, and the typical caution when beginning any exercise program is to discuss the program with your physician first.

Low impact activities, such as walking, swimming, bicycling, yoga, and pilates, are excellent for toning muscles, aerobic stimulation, and developing stamina.  Most experts recommend 3 to 3 1/2 hours of this kind of activity per week.  One special benefit is increasing bone density, without joint aggravation.

Sometimes the above benefits can be gained by increasing daily activities--walking up stairs instead of taking the elevator, moving around each half hour instead of sitting all the time, or working your arms while you walk.  Try walking around the block a few times per day.

As always, if you have a chronic disease such as lupus, or are a senior, be mindful of your body.  Pain is a warning sign that your routine may have to change.


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

FDA: HPV Test Instead Of Pap Smear?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration Advisory Panel has voted March 12, 2014 that a new HPV test could be used before or instead of a Pap smear as a first step in cervical cancer screening.  The unanimous vote signaled that the cobas HPV test, is a safe and effective initial screening test, according to the Medical Devices Advisory Committee.  The importance is that the HPV test is less complicated and less invasive than a Pap smear.


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

Concern: Teen E-Cigarettes Lead to Tobacco?

JAMA Pediatrics, in 2013 and 2014 published studies has researched adolescent e-cigarette use.
As part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention National Youth Tobacco Survey of 38,000 middle and high school students, teen smoking and tobacco habits were studied.  Between 2011 and 2012, the number of participants in the group using e-cigarettes doubled, and more participants used them in conjunction with regular cigarettes.  This indicates that the e-cigarettes are not used for tobacco cessation, but may actually increase the actual number of regular smokers.  This is particularly troubling because other studies have shown that most long-term adult smokers started at a young age, and continued.

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

Time for a New Front Tooth?

Replacing an Old Crown Can Enhance Your Mood

Replacing that old crown on your front tooth with today's more advanced dental laboratory technology can make all the difference in the world in how you look, smile, and feel about yourself.  With our in-house laboratory, we can create whichever restorative solution is best for your dental needs. As a Board Certified Prosthodontist, Dr. Tupac welcomes the opportunity to help 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

Root Canal vs. Dental Implant?

Dark Teeth May Be a Sign of Trauma 

A single dark front tooth is a common occurrence, most often the result of trauma.  The discoloration can develop 1 to 20 years after the trauma, and the tooth may be either vital or non-vital.  It may or may not require, or have had, root canal therapy.  A tooth can also darken after root canal therapy.  The most conservative method of recapturing the tooth's original color is by bleaching, which may be done either externally or internally, or both.  If fillings need to be replaced, they may be done in a lighter color.  If the tooth requires a veneer or crown or cap, it can be done to match the adjacent, natural teeth.  We treat dark teeth with all of the modalities available, and are happy to discuss all treatment options for patients needing this kind of help.

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

Cleft Palate? See A Prosthodontist!

A cleft palate presents itself in a number of different ways.  Mindy had a cleft palate, with no bone and no tooth in her upper left lateral incisor location.  The adjacent teeth had shifted towards the defect, even after orthodontic therapy.  Without bone for an implant, and knowing that surgical reconstruction of the defect with a bone graft wasn't a sure thing, she chose to have a fixed bridge to replace the missing tooth and straighten her front teeth.  You can see how it worked out.


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

Denture Stomatitis and Fungal Infections

Denture stomatitis is a common disorder affecting denture wearers.  It is characterized as inflammation and redness of the tissues covered by the denture.  It is often asymptomatic; only a minority of sufferers experience pain, itching or burning.  It is primarily identified during a dental examination as the presence of inflammation and swelling under the denture.  It is associated with poor denture fit, increased age of the patient, increased age of the denture, continuous wearing of the denture and poor denture hygiene.  

Bacteria and fungi (primarily Candida Albicans) are likely included.  Patients can see it themselves when their tissues are fiery red under the denture and the redness follows the outline of their denture.  Not removing dentures at night while sleeping allows a biofilm of bacteria to colonize on the inside denture surface without being properly removed.  Treatment of the acute phase requires antifungal medications.  Rapid recurrence of the condition will occur unless the denture is properly disinfected and thereafter a daily denture hygiene regimen of removing the dentures and soaking them in a commercial disinfectant solution or diluted sodium hypochlorite.  Routine follow-up visits to assess that the denture maintains proper fit and function is important in reducing the risk for developing stomatitis.

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

Why Is Dental Care Important?

What researchers have found about oral health

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

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

Xylitol Reduces Adult Tooth Decay

A report published in the Journal of Dental Research, by Ritter, et al., compared the effectiveness of xylitol vs placebo lozenges in the prevention of dental decay in "active-decay" adults.  620 patients were followed for three years.  Participants using the xylitol lozenges had 40% fewer decay lesions on  root surfaces than those using the placebo.

J Dent Res, 2013 (Epub)


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

So: You Want To Lose Weight?

Calories

Why does it seem that losing weight is difficult?  The answer may be based on the fact that losing weight usually involves behavioral changes that can be unpleasant.  The simple fact is that calories taken in need to be balanced with calories burned, and losing weight means more calories burned than taken in.  There are some tried and true ways to do it, though.

Metabolism

It is still possible to feel like you've eaten your fill when you eat larger amounts of fruit and vegetables.  They are filling without the excessive calories.  The other calorie trick is to avoid fat, which has the highest caloric content (9 calories/gram), compared to carbohydrates and protein (4 calories/gram).  The best way to burn more calories is to increase your metabolism with regular increased activity.  Burning an extra 3,500 calories a week is the equivalent to the loss of a pound of body fat.  Finding the combination of dietary changes and increased activity levels is an individual thing, but is possible for everyone.


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 vs. Dentures

Living with Dentures

Dentures are not a substitute for natural teeth; they are better than not having any teeth at all.  Dentures rest on gum tissues that were never intended to withstand chewing forces.  After teeth are removed, the jawbone undergoes a continuous process of atrophy, which presents itself as shrinkage of the gums.  As the bone recedes, the area available to support and retain a denture becomes more compromised.  These continuous changes require that the dentures be refitted or remade at regular intervals.  As the bone shrinks, support for facial musculature deteriorates, musculature weakens and tissue tone flattens.  Dentures can only be cleaned outside of the mouth.  A trained eye can spot a denture from across a room.

The Benefit of  Dental Implants

Dental implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth, or an entire arch of teeth.  Because they are anchored in the jawbone, their main benefit is that they preserve the bone.  They create a foundation for the stability and permanence of teeth.  Because of their permanence, they maintain facial and muscle structure.  They are cleaned in your mouth, just like natural teeth.  An entire arch of twelve teeth can be replaced with as few as four (All-on-4) implants.  Sometimes, they implants and prosthesis can be placed at the time of tooth extraction.  To see if you are a candidate, 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

Do Implants Work If You Lost Your Teeth To Gum Disease?

Gum Disease

Periodontal disease is the greatest cause of tooth loss in adults. It is caused by specific bacteria that migrate below the gumline, and cause inflammation, bone loss, and tooth loosening. A common question is, if I lost my teeth to gum disease, wouldn't I lose dental implants the same way? The simple answer is: No!

The literature is full of studies of patients who have lost their teeth due to a history of chronic periodontitis. Natural teeth are anchored in bone, but are connected to the boney socket by a ligament called the periodontal ligament. This soft tissue connection is what is damaged by periodontitis and starts the progression of bone loss and loose teeth. Dental implants are anchored directly to the bone, without any soft tissue interface between bone and implant to break down.

Candidates for Dental Implants

In addition, the bacteria that cause periodontitis in the natural dentition are different from the bacteria that can cause inflammation around implants. The literature substantiates that those patients who have lost their teeth to periodontitis are good candidates for dental implants.


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 Do You Do If Your Tooth Is Knocked Out?

What do you do if your tooth gets knocked out?  DON'T rinse it with water!  Lick it clean and put it back in place and gently bite to hold it in position until it stabilizes.  If you need to transport it to the dentist, soak it in milk.  Tooth reimplantation does sometimes work, the sooner the better, if you're lucky.


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

Skin Cancer Increases Risk for Other Cancers

Skin Cancer

While most people are aware of the fact that malignant melanoma can be a life threatening form of skin cancer, and that medicine has established that a person who has had a melanoma is at greater risk for developing another melanoma and other cancers later in life, the same appears to be true for all skin cancers.  Skin cancer is a disease of all races and skin colors, not just pale whites.  A review of the literature shows that photoprotection and other preventive measures are recommended for all people when it comes to exposure to ultraviolet light.

A study in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, from Oxford University, of mortality data from 1999 to 2011 in England, showed the risk of primary malignant cancers was higher for those patients who previously had nonmelanoma skin cancers.  There was a significant increase in the rates of salivary gland, melanoma, bone and upper gastrointestinal tract cancers.  Risk was higher for those who had skin cancer at an earlier age.

Source:  HealthDay news


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

Smoking During Pregnancy and Cleft Lip/Palate Risk

The Surgeon General has released data from 50 years of tobacco-related study, from 1964-2014.  More than 7,000 babies are born yearly in the United States with cleft lip or cleft palate.  Smoking during pregnancy increases the risk by 30 to 50%.  Since approximately 23% of American women smoke during pregnancy, the exposure to the toxic chemical in smoke reduces the amount of oxygen the baby gets, affecting growth and development.


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

Gene Therapy: The Future of Medicine

Chemotheraphy Advisor again demonstrated it is in the forefront of publishing cancer related articles. It recently published a report on the discovery of a new approach to treat leukemia. A significant amount of research in the last decade has been done in the field of molecular genetics, directed to finding the specific genes, or combination of genes, that could be responsible for the development of cancer, and pinpointing ways to disable the genetic process as a method for treatment of cancer.

Researchers from the Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer in Montreal, in collaboration with a group from Stanford University, after four years of study, have found a specific gene, Brg1, to be a key regulator of leukemia stem cells that are the root cause of the disease, its resistance to treatment, and relapse. The group is experimenting ways to find drugs that would disarm the Brg1 gene to keep leukemia stem cells from generating malignant cells.  By doing so, long term remission may be achieved.

For greater detail, see: ChemoptherapyAdvisor.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

What Is Peri-implant Mucositis?

One of the inflammatory reactions (not infection) around a dental implant is called peri-implant mucositis.  It has been described as a disease in which the presence of inflammation is confined to the soft tissues surrounding a dental implant with no signs of bone loss of supporting bone following initial bone remodeling during healing.  Signs that mucositis is present include bleeding on probing of depths> 4mm and/or suppuration.  The condition is reversible with early intervention and removal of the causative factors.  Usually surgical intervention is not necessary.

It is important for patients who have dental implants to have regular professional care for them as well as their remaining natural teeth.

A full description of the condition and treatment, as well as differential diagnosis regarding other peri-implant inflammatory disease, is found in a monograph from the Task Force on Peri-Implantitis of the American Academy of Periodontology.


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

Osteoporosis Medications and Your Dental Health

Bone Density

As we grow older, our bones begin to lose their density and strength, especially after the age of 50. Many factors affect bone density, including diet, physical activity, family history, hormones, lifestyle and certain conditions and medications.

Osteoporosis--porous bone--is a disease that weakens bones, especially hip, spine and wrist, and makes them more likely to break. It affects about 10 million Americans, 8 million of whom are women. The disease affects more women than cancer, heart disease and stroke combined. An additional 34 million Americans have osteopenia, or low bone density, and are at risk for developing osteoporosis.

Broken bones, as a result of osteoporosis, will affect 50% of women and 25% of men over the age of 50, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation. To prevent broken bones, many people with low bone density or osteoporosis take drugs called bisphosphonates (fosomax, boniva, actonel, reclast, etc.). Studies indicate that, in many people, these medications help reduce the chance of breaking bones by reducing bone loss and increasing bone density.

Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

In rare cases, a condition known as osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) has been reported in patients taking these medications. This rare but serious condition can cause severe damage to the jawbone. 94% of those diagnosed with ONJ are patients with cancer who are receiving or have received repeated high doses of medication through an intravenous infusion.

The benefits of these medications greatly outweigh the very low risk of developing ONJ. You should not stop taking these medications without consulting your health care provider. There is no known prevention for ONJ. However, regular dental visits and excellent oral hygiene practices may be the best way to reduce your risk.

Source: American Dental Association, JADA, vol. 142, #11, 1320, Nov. 1, 2011

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

Getting Ready For Your Colonoscopy?

Colonscopy Procedure

The main colorectal cancer (CRC) screening test is the colonoscopy. The procedure involves visualizing the interior of the large bowel with a camera and biopsying or treating any abnormal appearing areas. Patient preparation for the procedure involves a challenging and unpleasant cleansing of the digestive tract the day prior to the procedure. However, the thoroughness of the preparation is a crucial factor in the success of the examination.

The extent of the bowel preparation is graded on the Aronchick scale, and rates the quality of the preparation based on the percentage of the mucosa visualized during the procedure: more than 95% visualized is excellent, 90-95% good, 80-90% fair, and less than 80% poor. If a patient older than the age of 50 has normal results, the usual guidelines suggest followup after ten years. If polyps are removed, followup can be recommended in three years. However, if preparation is rated as "fair", followup can also be recommended more frequently. This data suggests that, while the preparation may be unpleasant, the more thoroughly it is accomplished may have the additional benefit of extending the time period for the procedure to have to be repeated.


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

Crohn's Disease Facts and Cancer Risk

Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation of the lining of the digestive tract, anywhere along its entire length, that causes a variety of symptoms.

Crohn's Symptoms

Symptoms of the disease are predominantly abdominal pain and cramping, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, vomiting or weight loss. It can also cause other complications, such as anemia, skin rashes, arthritis, eye inflammation, fatigue, and difficulty in concentration. The exact cause of the damaging digestive tract inflammation remains unknown, but is thought to be a combination of genetics, environmental factors, and an abnormal immune response or immune deficiency.

More than half a million people in the United States have been diagnosed, but symptoms often exist long prior to diagnosis. The usual onset of the disease is between the ages of 15 and 30 years old, but can occur at any age. Males and females are equally affected. Tobacco smokers are twice more likely to develop it. Treatment is directed to controlling symptoms. maintaining remission and preventing relapse. There appears to be a link between the disease and an increased risk of cancer, specifically lymphoma, leukemia, of the small bowel, colorectal cancer and skin cancer. Additional risk is thought to exist for liver, pancreatic, kidney and testicular cancer.


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 Cold Sore?

 

Signs and symptoms for cold sores

Cold sores--also called fever blisters--are fluid-filled lesions caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 infection.  If you've had one before, you may sense a new one coming by a telltale tingling on your lip.  Sure enough, in a day or two, red blisters appear on your lip.  It's another cold sore, probably happening at a bad time, and there's no way to hide it or make it go away quickly.  Cold sores are quite different from canker sores.  Though you can't cure or prevent cold sores, you can take steps to reduce their frequency and to limit the duration of an occurrence.  They are small, painful, raised fluid-filled blisters.  Tingling often precedes them, and they usually last 10 to 14 days.  

Signs and symptoms may not start for as long as 20 days after exposure to the herpes simplex virus, although more typically they appear within about one week of exposure.  The blisters form, break and ooze.  Then a yellow crust forms and finally sloughs off to uncover pinkish skin that heals without a scar.  

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

Mouth and Throat Cancer Rates Increasing

The journal Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery has noted an increase in the incidence of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma in patients younger than 45 years over the time period from 1973 to 2009.  In addition, there was an increase, from 28% to 43%, in the proportion of grade III/IV tumors.  Treatment for this type of cancer involves surgery, often in combination with radiation therapy.  As with any cancer, early detection is most important.  For this type of tumor, the five year survival rate is 54%.  The rising incidence is thought to be related to transmission of the human papilloma virus (HPV) and changes in sexual practices.  This is added evidence is support of vaccinating both boys and girls to prevent disease.

Source:  HealthDay News


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

Your Mouth And Teeth Age Too

Paul had a 3-tooth fixed bridge for 15 years until one of the anchor teeth (that had a root canal and gum surgery) failed in 1978.  So, it grew to a 4-tooth bridge that lasted until 1986, when the next anchor tooth failed.  Two dental implants were placed in 1988, which held a new fixed bridge, until a third implant was placed in 1990.  This 4 tooth fixed bridge supported by three implants exists to this day.  Paul's experience illustrates that, even when everything that could be done had been done, his mouth kept changing.  Your Board Certified Prosthodontist has the specialized training and experience to help you with your dental 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

Smoking Kills

The U.S. Surgeon General ways more than 20 million Americans have died prematurely from smoking over the past 50 years.  Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States.  Women are just as likely as men to die from diseases, such as lung cancer, caused by smoking.  Even though, the rate of smoking is declining, 46 million adults (20% of the population) still smoke, and millions more are exposed to secondhand smoke.

The Surgeon General went on to state that smoking causes or worsens more than a dozen chronic health conditions--lung cancer, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), stroke, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, liver cancer, colorectal cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, age-related macular degeneration, migraine and erectile dysfunction.


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

Flu Shots Still a Good Idea

Flu Shots

Flu season in the United States usually lasts from October through May.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that the flu is dangerous and can be deadly even for the healthiest individual.  The CDC recommends nearly everyone over 6 months old get the vaccine, especially pregnant women, young children, people age 65 or older, and anyone who has a chronic condition (asthma, diabetes, heart and lung disease) or takes medication that can weaken the immune system.

Wash Your Hands

In addition, the CDC recommends the following healthy habits:  wash hands frequently, sneeze or cough into a tissue or your arm (not your hand), if sick stay home for at least 24 hours after a fever disappears, and keep your hands away from your eyes, nose and mouth.  It takes two weeks for protection to develop after getting the vaccine shot.


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

Good Mouth Care for Seniors a Must

A new study, in the European Geriatric Medicine journal, found that many older adults don't or can't properly clean their teeth and gums and rely on caregivers for help.  Dutch researchers found that caregivers often overlook mouth care, because they are unaware of its importance and the consequences of ignoring it.  It is important because healthy gums and teeth keep people looking good, and enjoying eating tasty and nutritious food.  Your mouth plays a key role in your overall wellbeing, because the oral bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease also are linked to serious medical conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, stroke, and heart and lung disease.

If you are a caregiver, have parents who are seniors, or have relatives in long-tern care facilities, please be sure that your loved ones are receiving proper oral 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

Prosthodontists Treat Headaches Caused By Your Mouth

As a Board Certified Prosthodontic office, we frequently see patients seeking relief from headaches, many of which can be the result of dysfunction of the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), jaw function (the way your upper and lower teeth contact one another and mesh together when you chew), and the magnitude and direction of the forces of your bite.

Common to patients with headaches of oral origin are facial and chewing muscle tenderness, jaw pain when chewing or talking and even sometimes at rest, jaw joint clicking, teeth clenching or grinding while awake or asleep, and stiffness of the neck and shoulder areas.

Treatment is relief oriented.  A variety of methods are used to minimize pain and restore normal range of motion and strength.  Once stabilization is achieved, then permanent solutions are determined.  If you need this type of care, we are here to help.


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

When Is Difficulty Swallowing A Serious Problem?

 

Difficulty Swallowing

We've all experienced it at one time or another--difficulty swallowing.  Food just doesn't go down easily.  It may hurt, may feel like food is stuck in the back of your throat, you might drool, your voice may be hoarse or you may cough or gag when swallowing.  But when is it a serious condition?  

If difficulty persists, then the condition requires attention.  It takes about 50 pairs of muscles and nerves to accomplish the simple act of swallowing, and a number of conditions can interfere with this process.  There are two general categories:  

• Esophageal--refers to the sensation of food sticking or getting hung up in the base of your throat or your chest.  Causes include narrowing of the esophagus, tumors, foreign bodies, regurgitation, acid reflux or scleroderma.  

• Oropharyngeal--nerve or muscle problems that cause weakened throat function and promote choking, gagging or coughing when swallowing, or the sensation of foods or liquids going down your windpipe or up your nose.  Causes include neurological problems, or cancer.

A variety of tests can be done to determine the nature of the problem--swallowing studies, endoscopy to view the esophagus, or muscle tests.

Swallowing Treatment

Treatment is tailored to the particular cause and medications are useful in reducing stomach acid.  There are some simple lifestyle changes to improve swallowing function--eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding sticky foods, cutting food into smaller pieces and eating at a slower pace.  Limiting alcohol, tobacco and caffeine reduces heartburn.  The most important thing to remember is that if you develop a regular problem with swallowing, medical examination is necessary.  

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

Toothlessness: An Emotionally Charged Subject

Oral Health

Poor oral health is generally associated with shame and guilt--while the patient tries to hide such a predicament, the opinion of the rest of the world is unmistakable--it is your own fault!  Poor oral health is self-inflicted, so there is no one else to blame!  That's not always the case.  As a Board Certified Prosthodontic office, we understand the significance of teeth that look good and function well to the lives of our patients.  Good teeth and a healthy mouth are necessary for one's quality of life.

Benefits of Dental Implant

In addition, people are treated according to how others assess their teeth and gums. We know that the loss of teeth changes the shape of the face and jaws, that it alters one's self image, and can affect how people interact and the manner in which they approach intimacy.

If you have teeth that need repair, or replacement, dentures that need to be tightened or remade, or dental implants to preserve your shrinking jawbone, give us a call.  We are here to help.


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