Showing posts with label dentistry. Show all posts
Showing posts with label dentistry. Show all posts

October 10, 2014

How To Reduce Bad Cholesterol By Diet Planning

This blog has previously shown evidence that lowering cholesterol levels has been demonstrated to lower the risk of heart disease.

A low cholesterol diet plan works by lowering the quantity of saturated fat intake to reduce LDL cholesterol as well as using more monounsaturated fats and soluble fiber to increase HDL cholesterol.

"Bad" cholesterol is found only in foods from animals, not in plant foods.  Reducing the amount of meat, replacing beef, pork or lamb with fish or chicken, and increasing the amount of whole grains and vegetables reduces the amount of saturated fat intake.
  • when eating meat, choose lean cuts and trim away all visible fat and skin before cooking
  • USDA cuts marked Choice and Select are leaner than Prime
  • meat baked or broiled over a rack allows fat to drain; frying seals in the fat
  • stews and soups, when refrigerated, allow fat to be skimmed off
  • processed meats, usually high in saturated fat, are to be avoided
Here are some other tips, also:
  • saturated fat in dairy products (butter, milk and cream) can be reduced by using low-fat milk or cheese
  • soluble fiber is found in oatmeal and oat bran, kidney beans, brussel sprouts, pears and apples; brown rice and whole grain pasta also  lower cholesterol
  • trans fats act like saturated fats and are found in commercially baked and fried foods, like donuts, French fries, cookies, muffins, crackers, pies and cakes.
  • cholesterol is found in egg yolk, but not in egg whites, which are protein rich.
  • monounsaturated fats, which help reduce cholesterol levels, are found in canola oil, olive oil or peanut oil, rather that cooking with corn oil.


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 05, 2014

What Is A Prosthodontist?

A prosthodontist is a dentist who has completed an additional three or four year American Dental Association accredited residency program after dental school.  It includes lectures and seminars, and intensive laboratory and clinical experience.

Prosthodontists are experts in diagnosis, treatment planning and restorative procedures.  They restore oral function and improve the esthetic appearance of smiles through:
  • replacement of broken, worn, or decayed teeth with crowns, veneers or inlays
  • placement of dental implants and implant crowns and prostheses
  • replacement of missing teeth with bridges
  • fabricating removable partial or complete dentures
  • restoration of occlusion
  • management of TMJ disorders and bruxism
Dr. Tupac is the only full time Board Certified Prosthodontist in Bakersfield.

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

September 04, 2014

Do You Have Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a disorder which affects 18 million Americans.  It results in loud snoring and excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue.

There are three types of sleep apnea:
  • obstructive--the most common--occurs when soft tissue in the back of the throat collapses and obstructs the airway, causing breathing to stop
  • central--when the brain doesn't signal the muscles to breathe
  • mixed--a combination of the two
During normal sleep, muscles that stiffen the airway behind the tongue and soft palate relax..With a normal size airway, there is no problem.  However, if the airway is small (anatomically or because of excess weight) it can close.  Breathing continues against the closed airway and becomes increasingly strong (in response to diminished oxygen levels and increased carbon dioxide levels) until the greater effort causes awakening, which activates the muscles to reopen the airway.  The arousals are brief (and mostly unnoticed) but if they occur frequently enough during the night, sleep becomes fragmented and non-restorative, and daytime fatigue and sleepiness results.

With proper diagnosis of sleep apnea, some dentists make appliances for patients to wear that are designed to keep the airway open.  www.prevention.com has a listing of research studies regarding the health effects of untreated sleep apnea.

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

August 29, 2014

Why Is Dental Care Important?

An attractive smile is a sign of happiness, confidence and self esteem.  A healthy mouth is also an indicator of overall well-being.

This is what researchers have found out 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

August 27, 2014

Prosthodontists Restore Surgical Defects






Removal of a boney tumor from the jaw leaves a large intraoral defect.  It is the province of the Board Certified Prosthodontist to restore function and aesthetics for these patients.

This gentleman lost 13 lower front teeth and a large volume of bone both vertically and horizontally.  Instead of having to wear a removable partial denture of tremendous bulk, five dental implants were placed in the remaining lower jawbone and the implants supported a screwed in place prosthesis which replaced the missing teeth and gums, thus restoring chewing function, normal speech and pleasing aesthetics.

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

August 26, 2014

Implant-Based Solutions = Improved Quality of Life




There is no need to be edentulous.  With conventional dentures, severe bone resoption occurs.  Because dentures are loose all the time, patients lose more than confidence, avoiding certain foods can lead to nutritional deficiencies, and an altered self-image causes an avoidance of social situations.  Dentures restore only 15% of chewing function.  Poorly fitting dentures can cause sore spots and painful blisters.  They often offer only limited lip and cheek support, and the face loses its natural appearance.

Dental implants provide the following functional benefits:
  • greater chewing capability
  • improved esthetics
  • improved speech
  • greater comfort
  • less bone resorption
And the following emotional benefits:
  • improved self-image
  • improved self confidence
  • greater self esteem
  • improved social life

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

August 21, 2014

Before You Have Your Bite Adjusted

As a patient, you should know that "bite adjustments" are sometimes controversial in dentistry.

Dentists frequently make simple alterations in your bite--with a new filling or crown, or a fixed bridge or removable partial--and your mouth's adaptability to the change takes care of things. However, if you have symptoms--jaw joint pain, head and neck muscle strain or pain, or even tooth pain--then it is necessary that a Prosthodontist diagnose of the cause of the symptoms before any alterations are made.

Diagnosis involves the appropriate film studies, of the teeth and joints, and examination of your occlusion (how the teeth come together) by means of models study mounted on a device (articulator) that reproduces your jaw movements.  It also involves an in-depth discussion regarding parafunctional activities, such as bruxism (teeth grinding) or clenching.

Removable custom bite appliances are used both as a diagnostic and treatment tool, to determine whether changes in your bite could be beneficial before making permanent alterations to your teeth.
The goal of any bite alterations is to relieve or eliminate symptoms and minimize stress to the joints, muscles and teeth.

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

August 11, 2014

How To Prepare For Surgery

An article in the AARP magazine notes that the average American has nine operations during a lifetime and suggests ways to shape up before surgery:
  • Get blood sugar under control--a fasting blood glucose test will disclose elevated blood sugar levels, which, if untreated, triple the risk of postsurgical infection and quadruple the risk of death during heart surgery
  • Discontinue smoking--nicotine constricts small blood vessels and increases the risk of heart attack during surgery and hampers wound healing.  Smoking cessation for a month prior to surgery brings healing into a normal range.
  • Mild exercise--walking, even a mile, without becoming overly fatigued, promotes better recovery
  • Decrease alcohol--alcohol withdrawal can cause seizures, nervous system damage, irregular heartbeat, respiratory failure, and death during surgery
  • Stop herbal supplements--for at least two weeks before surgery, especially ginkgo biloba, ginseng and valerian
  • If you have sleep apnea--breathing problems during surgery and recovery are common
  • Review medications--especially blood thinners, beta blockers, and review with your surgeon
  • Prescription drink supplements--for five days before surgery to be properly nourished, reduces the risk of postsurgical complications

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

July 23, 2014

Since You Stuck Your Tongue Out...

From singers to sports players to personal selfies, there are a lot of people sticking their tongues out these days.

What about those spots on your tongue?  Are they the result of infection (causing swelling and redness) or ulcers (cold sores, herpes, gum disease, fungal infections, or chicken pox)?  Or are they allergic reactions to food that result in white and red spots?  Or are they caused by trauma, vitamin deficiencies, antibiotics, smoking, canker sores, or cancer?

If you have any questions or concerns, see our Board Certified Prosthodontist.

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

July 21, 2014

Amazing (Uneven) Front Teeth


If you have only three front teeth instead of four, nobody else has to know!  These beautiful all porcelain crowns were made in our own office laboratory by our master technician.  Which prominent movie star has the same condition?

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

July 15, 2014

Sunscreen Reduces Melanoma Risk

A study in Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research reported the association of melanoma risk and the use of sun protection factor (SPF) 15 lotion.

Researchers at the Texas Biomedical Research Institute used opossum pups: 174 as controls, 289 with plain lotion and 325 with lotion containing SPF 15, and then exposed them to doses of ultraviolet B light.
They found that the use of SPF 15 sunscreen correlated with a 10-fold reduction in the incidence of melanocytic nevi.

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 Prosthodontist: Recertification

In order to maintain his Board Certification in Prosthodontics, Dr. Tupac has to complete hours of continuing education yearly and in a ten year period, and pass a written recertification examination based on literature studies of the recent developments in the specialty of prosthodontics.

Dr. Tupac passed this recertification examination last year, and continues to be the only full time Board Certified Prosthodontist in Bakersfield and the Central Valley of California.

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

July 14, 2014

Guided Surgery: Upper Teeth In A Day







We have the technology to take you from a complete denture to an implant supported fixed bridge in a single appointment.

This denture patient had a CAT Scan of her upper jaw.  We applied a computer program to that scan to design implant locations, and a clear guide to be used in the mouth to place the implants without making any incisions. The guide was secured in her mouth and the implants placed.

The computer program also designed her fixed bridge in advance, and we made it in our own in-house laboratory.  After we placed the implants, the bridge was screwed into place.

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

July 10, 2014

The Future: Lasers Repair Teeth

A Harvard team of researchers has used a low-power laser to induce human dental stem cells to form dentin, the internal structure of a tooth.  They also described how it worked on a molecular level.

The procedure involves introducing the laser into holes in rodent molars, while they are in the mouth, to treat the tooth pulp that contains adult dental stem cells.  After twelve weeks, high resolution radiographic imaging confirmed the laser treatments triggered enhanced dentin formation.

Human clinical trials are proposed.

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

Removable Partials Are Terrific



Sometimes the easiest way to replace missing front teeth is with a conventional removable partial denture.  This patient's four front teeth are actually part of the partial.

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

July 09, 2014

Grandpa's New Front Tooth

Nature is kind to seniors, and while their teeth may not look ideal, they can still be very healthy.  Grandpa has good bone and gums, lots of stain and old fillings, but no active decay.  He needed a crown on the front tooth on the right of the picture.  So that's what we did.

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

Pretty Teeth

These porcelain veneers on the upper four front teeth make her smile perfect.

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

July 03, 2014

When It Comes To Dental Implants, Experience Matters

Osseointegrated dental implants were introduced to the profession by a Swedish orthopedic surgeon.  I had the honor of taking Dr. Branemark's first course in the western United States in 1983.  Since then, I have restored thousands of dental implants, and the audited success rate of those I have placed and restored is 97%.


Here's an example of a patient treated with multiple implants and fixed bridgework seventeen years ago.


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

Jaw Joint Problems Bugging You?



You use your mouth all the time, to eat, speak, even breathe, so you can't put it in a sling and let your jaw joints settle down when they are painful.  Take a look at this man's face--he doesn't look comfortable, does he?

Jaw joint problems are most often caused by bite irregularities.  Board Certified Prosthodontists are specifically trained to diagnose and treat this condition.  By restoring your teeth in a stable bite, the jaw joint problems can go from a loud roar to just a whimper.

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

June 24, 2014

What Your Smile Can Do

That smile of yours is a big deal:

  • It looks back at you from the mirror and makes you feel good
  • It is the first thing others notice
  • It makes you more approachable
  • It can spark a new romance
  • It can open doors in a job interview
  • It will make other people smile back
If you want to know ways to improve your smile, 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