The Monthly Minute
December 2008
                                      with  Dr. Alan  M. Smolen
                          Dr. Alan M. SmolenGreetings!
 
 This month, we'd like to tell you about some new products that have been developed to help in the fight against tooth decay.
You may be surprised at some of the new findings!

        Chewing Gum -         Good for You!

 Xylitol is a natural sugar alcohol derived from certain fruits, berries, vegetables, nut shells, birch wood and corn residues.  It is sweet like sucrose but does not contribute to the decay process.  It has 40% less calories than sugar and a glycemic index of 7 which makes it a suitable sweetner for diabetics.  For this reason, it is used as a sweetening agent in many "sugar-free" products.
 
Xylitol works in several ways:
  • Bacteria can not feed off this sugar.  Therefore, bacteria die off and stop the decay process.
  • Xylitol prevents bacteria from sticking to the teeth.  This stops acids from being formed.
  • Xylitol stimulates the flow of saliva which helps produce a more alkaline environment.

Studies have shown that using 4-12 grams per day is effective in preventing tooth decay.  Chewing sugarless gum with xylitol 3-5 times a day for 5-10 minutes after meals can make a difference by producing a shift from harmful germs to healthy bacteria. As an added bonus, studies have also demonstrated a significant effect in reducing the occurance of middle ear infections by 40%! 

Where to Find Xylitol
 
Look for products that are 100% xylitol or have it listed as  one of the first 3 ingredients.
 
Products containing xylitol are:
  • Spry products -found in health food stores, Whole Foods & Wegmans
  • Trident Sugarless Gum
  • Starbucks After-Coffee Mints and Gum
  • Altoids Gum
 
Links For More Information:
 

ACP/Recaldent

 
To Contact Us:
 
 
 
Merri Diperstein, RDH, BSThanks
Thanks to our hygienist, Merri, for the idea and research for this month's newsletter.
Merri is always up-to- date when it comes to continuing education and getting the scoop on the latest products.  So bring your questions with you and come say "hi" to Merri!

    Remineralize Your     Teeth       

 You may have seen the words "Recaldent", "ACP", or "Liquid Calcium" on the labels of some toothpastes or chewing gums.  These are all forms of Amorphous Calcium Phosphate.  These ingredients help correct acid imbalance in the saliva and provide important minerals for your teeth.
 
Demineralization of the teeth happens when the acid levels in the saliva are too high.  It can be caused by poor oral hygiene, dietary habits, dry mouth, acid reflux or medications. By including products that contain ACP or Recaldent in our daily routine, we can change the acid balance of our saliva and provide the calcium and phosphorus that is needed to encourage remineralization of the tooth surfaces. Such rebalancing leads to prevention and reversal of early decay, as well as, aiding in tooth sensitivity, white spots and dry mouth. 
 
Products Containing ACP or Recaldent
 
  • Trident Whitening Gum with Recaldent
  • Arm & Hammer Age Defying Toothpaste with Liquid Calcium
  • MI Paste which is available through our office.  This product provides the most beneficial application of calcium and phosphate available.
Happy Holidays to You and Your Family 
From Dr. Smolen and his Staff
Sangita, Merri, Dr. Smolen,Dawn, & Jessye 
 
Questions?
 If you have any questions or topics you'd like to see addressed in our newsletter, please e-mail me at the above link.
Save $1.00
Try Recaldent for yourself.  Print this coupon and bring it with you to your next office visit.  You'll save $1.00 on a tube of MI Paste and have the opportunity to see how Recaldent can work for you.  Please, only 1 coupon per family.
Offer Expires: January 31, 2008