Feeling extra wise lately? Maybe your wisdom teeth are playing a role :) Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last adult teeth to come into the mouth typically between the ages of 17 to 25. Yet, sometimes these teeth may not appear in all individuals. In addition, some people may develop impacted wisdom teeth, in which the teeth do not come fully into the mouth.

You may have heard a friend or loved one having to have their wisdom teeth removed. Wisdom teeth extraction is a relatively common dental procedure that may be indicated for individuals who have impacted wisdom teeth that are causing pain, tooth decay, damage to other teeth/the bone, infection, or need to be removed for orthodontic purposes to allow for more space in the jaws for instance.

A recent study has reported that extraction of wisdom teeth may improve taste function overtime. The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that participants of their study who had their wisdom teeth extracted had better tasting abilities 20 years after these teeth were removed. The study was published in the journal Chemical Senses. Lead author, Dr. Richard L. Doty, Director of the Smell and Taste Center at the University of Pennsylvania, stated "Prior studies have only pointed to adverse effects on taste after extraction and it has been generally believed that those effects dissipate over time...This new study shows us that taste function can actually slightly improve between the time patients have surgery and up to 20 years later. It's a surprising but fascinating finding that deserves further investigation to better understand why it's enhanced and what it may mean clinically."

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/06/210628170521.htm

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/wisdom-tooth-extraction/about/pac-20395268

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dentalselect.com%2Fwisdom-teeth-remove-not-remove%2F&psig=AOvVaw2K96ZLlX4Mpuhlb6gbfAgZ&ust=1630945818672000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAsQjRxqFwoTCPDd8PSg6PICFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.arudhradentalcare.com%2Fimpacted-wisdom-tooth.html&psig=AOvVaw39zHAi6Vzb9ECygMfMZm9C&ust=1630946635647000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAsQjRxqFwoTCNDtge-j6PICFQAAAAAdAAAAABAE

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/threats-to-dental-health/what-to-do-with-an-infected-piercing

https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/oral-piercing-jewelry

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fdepositphotos.com%2Fvector-images%2Ftongue-piercing.html&psig=AOvVaw05KsU0UtBSh9YWPu0ixPWk&ust=1630948950578000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAsQjRxqFwoTCLie2sCs6PICFQAAAAAdAAAAABAY

This year's theme highlights the fact that recovery is possible for everyone and that no one is alone on their journey to living a healthy life. This month is the perfect time to listen and/or share personal journeys with loved ones or the community to help increase awareness and improve knowledge of mental and substance use disorders.

Check out the available resources and virtual and in-person events by state location.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.samhsa.gov/

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.samhsa.gov%2Frecovery-month&psig=AOvVaw25lLQYx9rRDZcTG4pFBC4J&ust=1630939193445000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAsQjRxqFwoTCLjs8J-I6PICFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

https://rm.facesandvoicesofrecovery.org/

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.recoveryanswers.org%2Fblog%2Fnational-recovery-month%2F&psig=AOvVaw25lLQYx9rRDZcTG4pFBC4J&ust=1630939193445000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAsQjRxqFwoTCLjs8J-I6PICFQAAAAAdAAAAABAJ

Grasping control of our heart health is especially necessary as we still fight against COVID-19, which can exacerbate the severity of infection with the virus. Heart disease can be caused by many factors, for instance, smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity, just to name a few conditions. It's reported that there are approximately 520 million people living with CVD.

Check out these resources from the World Heart Federation to use and share with others.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://world-heart-federation.org/world-heart-day/about-whd/

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/11264-oral-health--risk-for-cv-disease

https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/facts.htm

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fresyncproducts.com%2Fblogs%2Fresync-blog%2Fresync-your-heart-on-world-heart-day&psig=AOvVaw39Hj14QXsE4avkNSXGwa-1&ust=1630942267191000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAsQjRxqFwoTCLifgseT6PICFQAAAAAdAAAAABAI

Choosing what to eat can be hard, especially wen we have to make these decisions every day, and more than once a day! We all know that choosing what we consume plays a significant role in our health, which is why eating balanced nutritious meals is so important for our well-being. We also all may have heard about the benefits of consuming plant-based foods. In fact, recent research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association reports that adding more plant-based foods into your diet can go a long way in supporting your heart, no matter what age you are.

As we prepare to get back into the swing of things, getting your child ready for school can add a lot to your to-do list. Need a new backpack? Check. Pencils and notebooks? Check. Dental check-up and cleaning? Be sure to check this off your list too! Dental check-ups are necessary for all individuals, regardless of age.

Heading back to school is the perfect time to have your child visit the dentist to ensure that they are healthy and less at risk of having to miss school due to trips to the dentist to handle cavities or other dental problems! According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), tooth decay (cavities) are the most common chronic disease of school-aged children (ages 6 to 11 years and adolescents aged 12 to 19 years). Tooth decay is even more common than asthma in these age groups! In addition, tooth decay is also a prominent issue in adults, with 9 out of 10 individuals over 20 years old being impacted by tooth decay, according to the CDC. Tooth decay has reportedly caused 51 million school hours to be missed each year. And, don't let the current COVID-19 pandemic prevent you from attending your regular dental check-ups. Dental offices have always followed standard safety protocols, and since the beginning of the pandemic, offices have incorporated new equipment and protocols to strengthen protection against the spread of bacteria and viruses to ensure the safety of all individuals. Check out more information on safety protocols and the low risk of transmission of COVID-19 at dental offices, here.

Luckily, tooth decay can be prevented, and treatment can be more effective and less costly when caught early. Save the trouble of tooth pain, difficulty eating, and missing school and work by attending your regular dental check-ups.

At your child's dental visit, here are some things to prepare for:

At your child's dental exam, the dental professionals will evaluate their bite, perform an oral cancer screening, diagnose any pathology and cavities. Dental x-rays are necessary to help see how your child's teeth are doing and developing. The x-ray's can help detect cavities and depending on when they were last taken, your dentist will inform you if they are needed at the check-up.

Following the exam, the treatment plan and all necessary procedures such as a dental cleaning, and any fillings needed will be discussed. Be sure to ask the dentist how your child's teeth and gums overall are doing. your dental professionals can help show  toothbrushing techniques and recommend different oral products to keep their mouth healthy. Your dentist may recommend dental sealants, which are thin layers of a dental material that is placed on the chewing surfaces of the back permanent teeth. These add some protection against cavities, although they do not replace proper oral health habits like regular brushing and flossing.

If your child is playing a contact sport this year in school, be sure their mouths are protected with mouth-guards. Your dentist can help you learn about the different types of mouth-guards and check its fit for optimum protection.

As your child heads off to begin a new school year, consider starting over with a new toothbrush if theirs looks frayed/worn. Also, start planning healthy and tooth-friendly meals to pack for lunch and stock up on water!

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/babies-and-kids/questions-for-school-dental-exam?utm_source=mouthhealthyorg&utm_medium=mhtopstories&utm_content=backtoschool

https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/hygiene/disease/dental_caries.html

https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/babies-and-kids/back-to-school

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.revealdental.com%2Fremember-schedule-kids-back-school-dental-visit%2F&psig=AOvVaw1ENDfkP6qdUlcXkvIZ0SfJ&ust=1628618585192000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAsQjRxqFwoTCLDguZfDpPICFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

The month of August marks an important yearly campaign, National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) to increase knowledge about the importance of vaccinations for all individuals. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about many uncertainties and is an ongoing fight that we must all continue to battle together. As the virus continues to rapidly change, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urges everyone to maintain safety practices, including immunization. Immunizations help prevent the development of severe illness, hospitalizations, and even death.

In recent news, you may have heard about the Delta variant of COVID-19, which has contributed to a significant rise in reported cases around the world. New research is suggesting that the Delta variant is more contagious, even in vaccinated individuals. In addition, the Delta variant may cause greater severity of illness. As of now, the Delta variant is the most prevalent strain of the virus in the United States.

According to the CDC, fully vaccinated people with Delta variant can spread the virus to others individuals. But, fully vaccinated people appear to be infectious for less time than other variants. Unvaccinated people are of the greatest concern as they are more likely to catch and spread the virus, as well as experience greater symptoms from infection.

Please be sure to continually check the CDC website for updates regarding the pandemic. They have updated guidance for fully vaccinated people based on new evidence on the Delta variant.

Please review WDG's COVID-19 update when preparing to visit our office: https://www.wellesleydentalgroup.com/blog/2021/06/covid-19-update

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/events/niam/index.html

https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/events/niam/graphics.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/variants/delta-variant.html

Ongoing research on COVID-19 continues to shed light on this unpredictable virus. For individuals diagnosed with diabetes, the impact of COVID-19 may be even more significant than thought before. A recent study of Japanese patients revealed diabetes as a main factor for progressing the severity of infection with COVID-19. In the Takatsuki Red Cross Hospital in Osaka, researchers analyzed a total of 102 male and female patients with an average age of 62 years who suffered with moderate symptoms of COVID-19 and initial favorable oxygen saturation levels. 49% of the patients also had type-2 diabetes. The lead researcher, Dr. Shizuka Kaneko, reported that 88% of patients whose symptoms of COVID-19 advanced from moderate to severe requiring ventilation were in the group of patients suffering from Type-2 diabetes. Whereas only 25 (24.5%) of the patients with Type-2 diabetes patients with moderate symptoms of COVID-19 improved. The researchers found a significant link between progression from moderate to severe COVID-19 and hemoglobin A1c levels of 6.2% or higher. They also suggested that older age and males were at greater risk for COVID-19 progression.

Dr. Kaneko mentioned, "Our findings shed light on the combined threat of COVID-19 and diabetes has on global population health and reinforces the importance of diabetes prevention more than ever before…While future pandemics are unpredictable, diabetes can be effectively managed - which could ultimately have far-reaching impacts on patient outcomes especially during times of public health crisis, like the COVID-19 outbreak." Although more research is needed to be conducted to evaluate the possible link between COVID-19 severity and diabetes, this study offers valuable insights that should be considered.

Unfortunately, individuals with diabetes are also at a higher risk for gum disease and other oral health issues due to improper blood sugar levels. Plus, gum disease may also negatively impact blood sugar levels according to research. This can make managing diabetes harder as these individuals can be more susceptible to infections and less capable of fighting infections.

If you have diabetes, be sure to inform your dental professional for the best management of your care.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/954159

https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/d/diabetes

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fweillcornell.org%2Fnews%2Fwhat-to-know-about-diabetes-covid-19&psig=AOvVaw3-wIGxSi_CYr50Nyh3WGi3&ust=1627324022789000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAsQjRxqFwoTCJCh47Dt_vECFQAAAAAdAAAAABAM

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Flowcountryfamilydentistry.com%2Fperiodontal-disease-and-diabetes%2F&psig=AOvVaw2aZKHxMht7dSgLUKyFTbvk&ust=1627324852534000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAsQjRxqFwoTCNigkNHv_vECFQAAAAAdAAAAABAF

There’s been a lot of uncertainty and apprehension throughout the pandemic due to the unpredictable COVID-19 virus. But, rest assured as the world works together we are getting closer and closer to defeating this virus. A new study conducted published in the Journal of Dental Research by researchers at Ohio State University revealed that the risk of catching SARS-CoV-2 infection, which can cause COVID-19, is low at the dentist's office. This helps dismiss the belief that patients, staff, and dental professionals are at high risk of contracting COVID-19.

Due to the fact that common dental procedures such as cleanings and restorations produce aerosols, many have feared that the dental clinical setting could be a risky place to contract SARS-CoV-2 from scattering saliva. During the start of the pandemic, many believed that saliva could be a significant route of transmission for the virus. This notion led researchers to investigate whether or not saliva is the main source of dental aerosols. They collected samples from staff, equipment, and several surfaces at a dental office during different dental procedures to determine what organisms were present and if saliva was the main source of the spatter. These dental procedures involved common aerosol producing equipment including high-speed drills and ultrasonic scalers. Through testing samples of saliva and water-based cleaning solutions that were used to rinse out patients mouths, they found that saliva was not the main source of the presence of any bacteria or viruses. Regardless of the procedure or the location where they collected the samples, the organisms from the water-based solutions contributed to approximately 78% of the organisms found in aerosols, whereas saliva only contributed to 0.1% to 1.2% of the microbes found. Thus, lead author and professor of periodontology at Ohio State University stated, "…It is the water from the ultrasonic equipment that's causing bacteria to be there. It's not saliva. So the risk of spreading infection is not high…However, we should not lose sight of the fact that this virus spreads through aerosol, and speaking, coughing or sneezing in the dental office can still carry a high risk of disease transmission." However, when low levels of the SARS-CoV-2 virus were found in the saliva of asymptomatic patients, they found no presence of SARS-CoV-2 in the aerosols created during their dental procedures. Purnima Kumar concluded, "Getting your teeth cleaned does not increase your risk for COVID-19 infection any more than drinking a glass of water from the dentist's office does…These findings should help us open up our practices, make ourselves feel safe about our environment and, for patients, get their oral and dental problems treated -- there is so much evidence emerging that if you have poor oral health, you are more susceptible to COVID."

Dental offices have always followed standard safety protocols, and since the beginning of the pandemic, offices have incorporated new equipment and protocols to strengthen protection against the spread of bacteria and viruses to ensure the safety of all individuals. Be sure to not put off visiting your dentist! Our team is equipped with all necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure an environment that is safe and healthy at all times. Staff will thoroughly clean all areas using disinfectants effective against COVID-19 and other infectious diseases. You can learn more about the increased safety and our latest equipment additions on our blog post: https://www.wellesleydentalgroup.com/blog/2020/05/whats-new-at-wdg-covid-19-safety-precautions

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/05/210513084956.htm

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cda.org%2FHome%2FNews-and-Events%2FNewsroom%2FArticle-Details%2Fhow-to-get-patients-back-in-the-dental-office-amid-the-covid-19-pandemic&psig=AOvVaw0pW7lsl2JdCDsDk6Ug0xwo&ust=1626441167999000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAsQjRxqFwoTCOj9pfOT5fECFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

Just last month, nationwide awareness campaigns for Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness took place to shed light on this major public health issue. Alzheimer’s disease is a common type of dementia that impacts the brain. Recently, researchers at the New York University (NYU) College of Dentistry and Weill Cornell Medicine found that older individuals with harmful oral bacteria associated with periodontal disease are more at risk for having an Alzheimer’s disease biomarker, amyloid beta, present in their cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Amyloid beta is a protein that forms plaques within the brain and is noted to be the first protein present as Alzheimer's disease develops. The researchers found that individuals with amyloid beta had more harmful oral bacteria and less beneficial bacteria present in their oral cavity. Another protein that is present in individuals with Alzheimer's disease is tau, which is found to clump together in nerve cells. However, the tau protein was not found in this study to be linked to harmful oral bacteria.

Periodontal disease, a severe form of gum disease, impacts approximately 70% of adults over the age of 65 years, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). When your gums are infected, bad bacteria can begin to create pockets within your gums that host more bacteria and damage the bone surrounding your teeth. This can eventually result in tooth loss along with many other oral health issues. In addition, the bacteria influence inflammation, which can affect not just your mouth but the rest of your body systemically.

More research is needed to be done regarding this complex disease and its association to periodontal disease. Senior author Mony J. de Leon stated, “the present study adds support to the understanding that proinflammatory diseases disrupt the clearance of amyloid from the brain, as retention of amyloid in the brain can be estimated from CSF levels,”

The researchers of this study determined the harmful oral bacteria to be Prevotella, Porphyromonas, and Fretibacterium. Whereas, the healthy oral bacteria included Corynebacterium, Actinomyces, and Capnocytophaga. The researchers believe that the presence of healthy bacteria and less inflammation in the oral cavity may help protect against developing Alzheimer's disease. They are interested in future research to test if improving gum health by reducing plaque build-up and harmful bacteria will help protect against Alzheimer’s disease.

Check out these quick facts about Alzheimer's disease from the Alzheimer's Association:

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://act.alz.org/site/Donation2?df_id=32112&32112.donation=form1&utm_source=google&utm_medium=paidsearch&utm_campaign=google_giving&set.custom.wt=giving&gclid=CjwKCAjww-CGBhALEiwAQzWxOmBPlwCaakm3ybowHLB1zV3MGX5bR0ZlVN0sShkR772_wAhDt5WXrRoCa5YQAvD_BwE

https://engage.healthtrustjobs.com/june-is-alzheimers-brain-awareness-month

https://www.alz.org/alzheimer_s_dementia

https://www.dentistrytoday.com/news/industrynews/item/8113-gum-bacteria-imbalance-linked-to-alzheimer-s-disease-biomarker

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2Fhealth%2Fdementia%2Finfo-2018%2Falzheimers-what-we-know.html&psig=AOvVaw1gCp9_qLzp0XExJVkgXtyS&ust=1625772585309000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAoQjRxqFwoTCODA24DZ0fECFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fengage.healthtrustjobs.com%2Fjune-is-alzheimers-brain-awareness-month&psig=AOvVaw1U_a8-C6iv629VpEIQXdRD&ust=1624925544123000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAoQjRxqFwoTCNiLq7GHufECFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fspringhillhomecare.com%2Falzheimers-and-brain-awareness-month%2F&psig=AOvVaw1U_a8-C6iv629VpEIQXdRD&ust=1624925544123000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAoQjRxqFwoTCNiLq7GHufECFQAAAAAdAAAAABAR

Before June comes to a close, we could not miss this opportunity to celebrate Men’s Health Month. Each year people across the world honor Men’s Health Month and promote important health facts and knowledge to help prevent health conditions that impact men. Typically, organizations and community members host health screenings, health fairs, and other important events throughout the month. In turn, this can lead to early detection of issues and help promote prevention of avoidable health problems.

We all know that taking care of your health also involves taking care of your oral health. Here’s some health facts about men’s health and tips to help keep men’s oral health on track:

• Avoid smoking. We’ve all heard a lot about the dangers of smoking throughout our lives. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 15.3% of men aged 18 and over currently smoke cigarettes. Smoking is strongly associated with the development of cancer, including oral cancers. Men are at a higher risk of developing oral cancers. In addition, individuals who smoke cigarettes also have an increased risk of gum disease, which can lead to several oral issues and eventual tooth loss.
• Being active is important to keeping your body healthy. The CDC reports 40.5% of American men aged 20 and over suffer from obesity. Changing your lifestyle habits to include daily exercise and a healthy diet can help keep your weight under control and prevent other diseases that have been linked to obesity, such as heart disease. When playing contact sports to get your exercise in, be sure to wear a mouthguard and any other necessary gear for protection. Injury to your mouth without the proper protection can lead to broken, cracked, or lost teeth.
• Monitor your blood pressure. The CDC reports that 51.9% of American men aged 20 and over have hypertension. Speak with your Doctor as soon as possible if you notice signs of consistent high blood pressure.
• Make sure you are making your regular dental checkups. Often, individuals schedule their dental checkups twice a year, but some people may need more frequent visits depending on the recommendation of their dentist depending on each person’s oral conditions. When dental visits are missed, this can cause problems to go undetected and untreated, which can lead to more invasive and costly procedures down the road. It is also important to follow through with treatment your dentist recommends for the improvement of your dental health. For instance, be sure to have your fillings, root canals, and crowns done in a timely manner to avoid further oral health problems.
• According to the American Academy of Periodontology, men are at a higher risk of developing gum disease (56% of men compared to 38% of women). Gum disease has been linked to many other systemic diseases that can decline your overall health and wellbeing, including heart disease, certain cancers, and even prostate problems in men. Gum disease has been found to increase the levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in men.
• Dry mouth can be an irritating feeling. When there is inadequate salivary flow, the risk of tooth decay is higher. Saliva helps neutralize harmful bacterial acids, in addition to washing away dental plaque that can contribute to tooth decay. If experiencing dry mouth, be sure to inform your dentist. It will also be important to stay hydrated with water.
• The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends everyone change their toothbrush approximately every 3-4 months or when the bristles become excessively frayed. The ADA reported a study where men changed their toothbrush less frequently than women, taking on average 5 months to change out their toothbrushes. Regularly changing your toothbrush is necessary because bacteria and food build up overtime, and the worn bristles won’t allow you to effectively brush your teeth. Worn bristles can also be damaging to the gums.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://nationaltoday.com/national-mens-health-month/

http://www.menshealthmonth.org/

https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/mens-health.htm

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthline.com%2Fnutrition%2Fbest-multivitamins-for-men&psig=AOvVaw1423OcUZGIBPPbqGCz3T1O&ust=1624919998582000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAoQjRxqFwoTCPDq8e_wuPECFQAAAAAdAAAAABAJ

https://www.lumahealth.io/blog/four-things-to-know-about-mens-health-2/

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.dentistryiq.com/dentistry/products/hygiene/article/14203936/toothpaste-tablets-your-next-big-thing?utm_source=DEC_DIQ+Morning+Briefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=CPS210524071&o_eid=3760I9143045C2X&rdx.ident%5Bpull%5D=omeda%7C3760I9143045C2X&oly_enc_id=3760I9143045C2X

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.theguardian.com%2Ffashion%2F2021%2Ffeb%2F15%2Fdown-the-tubes-should-you-brush-your-teeth-with-toothpaste-tablets&psig=AOvVaw19n_XHK7DLBvuzWsy0dnAb&ust=1623994560232000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCJix26v5nfECFQAAAAAdAAAAABAE

https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/2021/feb/15/down-the-tubes-should-you-brush-your-teeth-with-toothpaste-tablets

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/tobacco-health-benefits-of-smoking-cessation

https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-no-tobacco-day

https://www.firstpost.com/india/world-no-tobacco-day-2021-theme-this-year-is-quit-tobacco-to-be-a-winner-9664371.html

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/threats-to-dental-health/how-to-quit-smoking-and-protect-your-oral-health

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cadca.org%2Fblog%2Fmay-31st-marks-annual-world-no-tobacco-day&psig=AOvVaw1nzL9Ehq7Cp0QCqfgg7kUa&ust=1622296530918000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCNig3NXD7PACFQAAAAAdAAAAABAI

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.who.int%2Fmediacentre%2Fevents%2F2018%2Fworld-no-tobacco-day%2Fen%2F&psig=AOvVaw1nzL9Ehq7Cp0QCqfgg7kUa&ust=1622296530918000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCNig3NXD7PACFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

Mamelons should be distinguished from abnormal tooth wear. Tooth wear can include attrition, abfraction and abrasion. Attrition is commonly a result of teeth grinding (bruxism) or an improper bite, which causes chips in the tooth enamel where the tooth is worn down. Abfraction occurs when there is an unhealthy load on the teeth creating a notch on the tooth near the gumline. Abfraction can also be a result of tooth grinding or a misaligned bite. Lastly, abrasion can be a result of an excessive amount of force, such as from brushing the teeth too hard. Abrasion presents similarly to abfraction, as it can create a notch on the tooth near the gumline.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/adult-oral-care/what-causes-tooth-erosion

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.newhopeorthodontics.com%2Ftreatment%2Fcosmetic-dentistry%2Ftooth-wear&psig=AOvVaw3bMFfqVUlkLBouqyv7eRLf&ust=1622302559812000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCNiSt5Da7PACFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.quora.com%2FWhy-do-some-adults-still-have-teeth-with-mamelon-the-little-bumps-at-the-top-typically-seen-in-newly-erupted-adult-teeth-in-children&psig=AOvVaw2PZdlChGG4SPangF8XWpBz&ust=1622302502248000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCIjxivfZ7PACFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/kids-oral-care/what-are-mamelons-teeth

https://www.healthline.com/health/mamelons

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.elitedentalanddenture.com%2Fblog%2Fbumps-on-your-childs-newly-erupted-permanent-teeth-dont-worry&psig=AOvVaw28ToDZB2DOde16BSX9jOKj&ust=1622296040014000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCICKjIDC7PACFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fruckerortho%2Fvideos%2Fedge-adjustment-one-of-the-key-elements-of-the-smile-design-what-is-a-mamelon-th%2F3556509281046828%2F&psig=AOvVaw3dnAsnTOn13UFV_YPgwEbK&ust=1622296079542000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCNiF2InC7PACFQAAAAAdAAAAABAN

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.news-medical.net%2Fnews%2F20201224%2FResearchers-find-correlation-between-consistent-mask-wearing-and-improved-well-being.aspx&psig=AOvVaw07YUFXSNRt33WnbTdZah-4&ust=1620071583245000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCOi60Y7jq_ACFQAAAAAdAAAAABAp

WDG would like to wish a Happy Mother's Day to all moms everywhere! This is a special day honoring all of the sacrifices and love to those who have been a mother in all aspects of life.

As we celebrate Mother's Day, here are some tips regarding oral health for new and expecting mothers:

• For women who are expecting a new child via pregnancy or adoption, there can be a lot of exciting new tasks to take on. This new to-do list and gain in responsibility can lead to less sleep, which can impact bone health and tissue regeneration that also will affect the health of your teeth and gums.
• It has been well established that maintaining oral health is an important part of a healthy pregnancy. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 60 to 75% of women have gingivitis during pregnancy, which is an early stage of a severe form of gum disease known as periodontal disease. Hormones during pregnancy may cause the gums to become red and swollen. If left untreated, bone loss can be a consequence, leading to eventual tooth loss. Not only that, but periodontitis has also been associated with poor pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth and low birth weight, according to the CDC.
• Some research studies have suggested that periodontal disease may also be linked to high blood pressure during pregnancy (preeclampsia), however more research is needed to confirm these reports.
• In addition, pregnant women can also have an increased risk of developing dental cavities due to changes in eating habits for instance. The CDC reports that 1 in 4 women of childbearing age have untreated dental cavities, and the kids of moms who have several untreated dental cavities or tooth loss are more than 3 times more likely to have tooth decay during childhood.
• Calcium and Magnesium, which are found naturally in several foods, as well as through supplements, are key minerals for new mothers to maintain to help keep and build strong bones and teeth. Magnesium has also been reported to help improve sleep quality and lower risks of headaches, leg cramps, and teeth grinding (bruxism).  
• Another interesting finding is that the common oral bacteria that contributes to the cause of dental cavities, Streptococcus mutans, can be transmitted from mom to her child's mouth via kissing, licking a pacifier, sharing food, or sharing utensils.
• During pregnancy, some individuals may notice an inflamed gum growth between your teeth. This may be a pyogenic granuloma, which is fairly common during pregnancy. Pyogenic granulomas are benign skin growths that appear small, round, and can sometimes bleed.

• Morning sickness and heartburn may cause stomach acid to erode your tooth enamel. Your health professional may recommend rinsing with baking soda and warm water to help neutralize the acid, or the use of an antacid.
• If you are pregnant, be sure to let your dentist know, as this can impact some aspects of your dental care.
• It is important to teach good oral hygiene practices to your children at home. Be sure that your children are brushing at least twice a day for at least two minutes each time. Be sure to also teach them the importance of flossing to help prevent dental cavities. With younger children, brushing may be encouraged through the use of fun songs and phone apps geared to promote oral health. Make sure they are also scheduled for their regular dental check-ups and cleanings.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/publications/features/pregnancy-and-oral-health.html

https://www.healthline.com/health/pyogenic-granuloma#complications

https://blog.pregistry.com/healthy-mouth-pregnant/

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.infinityauto.com%2Fknowledge-center%2Fdaily-life-and-family%2Forigin-of-mothers-day&psig=AOvVaw1U8pk-o51fu8akYSq-qpvn&ust=1620665970212000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCLi8lq6JvfACFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fcrid%2F2012%2F909780%2F&psig=AOvVaw0D8s6Ib2GXbBwPgz-MfFnK&ust=1620666991612000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCIjHiZmNvfACFQAAAAAdAAAAABAJ

https://blog.1stfamilydental.com/smile-its-mothers-day-dental-health-tips-for-moms/

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/teen-oral-care/what-is-orthodontics

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/early-orthodontics/what-is-orthodontics

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.news-medical.net%2Fnews%2F20201224%2FResearchers-find-correlation-between-consistent-mask-wearing-and-improved-well-being.aspx&psig=AOvVaw07YUFXSNRt33WnbTdZah-4&ust=1620071583245000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCOi60Y7jq_ACFQAAAAAdAAAAABAp

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.idahoortho.com%2Fcauses-white-marks-form-around-braces-patients%2F&psig=AOvVaw30mb4u4QWDFxcNwli60mv5&ust=1620270265189000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCIChgZ_HsfACFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fdiersorthodontics.com%2Fp%2Forthodontist-West-Chester-Orthodontic-FAQ-p22747.asp&psig=AOvVaw1627n-my8huwnQqinVRwne&ust=1620271299105000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCKDT3Y7LsfACFQAAAAAdAAAAABAT

As the month of April comes to a close, individuals around the globe recognize World Immunization Week, which is an annual campaign that aims to highlight the importance of vaccines in helping us all to live health and safe lives. This year the campaign is running from April 24th-30th 2021, with the theme being, ‘Vaccines bring us closer.’ Vaccinations help prevent the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases and connect us to people everywhere as individuals become vaccinated across the globe.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.cdc.gov/globalhealth/immunization/wiw/index.html

https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-immunization-week/2021/overview

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fm4health.pro%2Fworld-vaccine-week-2020%2F&psig=AOvVaw17Lhark558CVU5pt7G2MxF&ust=1619523483763000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCNDY4aPpm_ACFQAAAAAdAAAAABAP

With the unexpected and unpredictable COVID-19 pandemic entering our lives well over a year ago, it has put a pause to many of our normal daily activities and brought about caution to our regular lives. With the national shutdowns, and confinement to our homes and closure of business and schools for a period of time, many have had to cancel important events and scheduled appointments. Although the pandemic isn't over yet, with vaccines becoming readily available throughout the world, we are beginning to get a glimpse of some normalcy returning. Studies have reported the efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines in helping prevent contraction of the virus and lowering the risk of having severe symptoms of the virus if infected.

Now, dental and doctor's offices that were previously closed or limited in available procedures are starting to resume normal services and have effective and safe health safety protocols in place to avoid the spread of COVID-19. According to a survey in TIME-Harris Poll of over 1,000 Americans, approximately 78% of individuals have canceled at least one medical service during the past three months, 30% have missed their dental exam, and 27% missed their yearly physical. But, health experts are currently reminding individuals that it's time to reschedule and attend your regular appointments and to not put your oral health or overall health on the back-burner. To find out what safety precautions and protocols your Doctors are performing, be sure to contact their offices with any questions or concerns you may have. Check out some of the changes we have made at WDG, in addition to those mandated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), to ensure the well-being of patients: https://www.wellesleydentalgroup.com/blog/2020/05/whats-new-at-wdg-covid-19-safety-precautions

Visiting your dentist is particularly necessary to keep you healthy and strong, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Your dentist will determine based on your individual needs and oral condition how often dental cleanings and check-ups are needed. Early detection of harmful oral conditions/diseases are key to keeping the rest of your body healthy, as your oral cavity is the window into the rest of your body. Your dentist will even check for signs of COVID-19 in the oral cavity. Radiographs can help identify tooth decay, gum issues, bone loss, and other pathology, and are often taken during your dental exams. Your dentist will also perform an oral cancer screening of your head, neck, and mouth. When issues are detected early, this can help prevent problems from increasing severity/harm, and potentially save you from having to have more invasive and costly dental procedures such as root canals and dental crowns when tooth decay is too extensive to be managed by a dental filling. 

Individuals with gum disease are at a higher risk of developing or worsening many systemic diseases, often linked due to the body's inflammatory immune response. This includes threatening conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and cerebrovascular events such as strokes. Not to mention, individuals with uncontrolled gum disease are 9 times more likely to die from infection with COVID-19, as reported in a recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology. Don't risk harming your health by putting of your health appointments!

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.wsj.com/articles/dentist-gum-disease-11618003919

https://www.health.com/mind-body/doctor-appointments-to-stop-postponing-covid

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fsuccess.ada.org%2Fen%2Fpractice-management%2Fpatients%2Fcovid-19-patient-communication-resources-for-dental-visits&psig=AOvVaw2smOVUaOZ4_HNLiFEt2hD8&ust=1618853646751000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCOCj15iqiPACFQAAAAAdAAAAABAg

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month! Risk factors for oral cancer include smoking and use of other tobacco products. However, the fastest growing cause of oral cancer in young, healthy individuals that do not use tobacco is the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). HPV within the mouth affects the tonsils and base of tongue.

Facts about HPV:

• HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States
• There are over 200 strains. Out of the 200, 9 of the strains can cause oral cancer.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that more than 80% of Americans will have HPV in their lifetime
• With a ratio of 4:1, males are most likely to develop oral cancer when compared to females.

Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer:

• Red or white patches in the mouth
• An ulcer or sore that does not heal in 2-3 weeks
• Difficult swallowing
• Hoarse or sore throat
• Painless lump on the outside of the neck

At your checkups, oral cancer screenings are performed by your dentist to look for precancerous conditions or signs of cancer within the oral cavity.  They will look for asymmetries in the face, discolorations of the tissues and ulcerations within the mouth.

Is there a cure for HPV?

While there is no cure for HPV, it can resolve itself and does not normally cause health problems. Currently there is one vaccine,  Gardasil which protects against the 9 strains of HPV that cause cancer. The vaccines are recommended for boys and girls of ages 11 and 12.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/h/hpv-and-oral-cancer

https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/hpv/basic_info/hpv_oropharyngeal.htm

https://oralcancerfoundation.org/understanding/hpv/hpv-oral-cancer-facts/

As we hop into spring and a new month, we're reminded to keep our health up to par especially as we continue to fight through COVID-19. Easter, like many of the other holidays celebrated over the past year may still look different as we continue to avoid large crowds and limit our gatherings to people in our immediate households to help protect against the spread of coronavirus.

With Easter also comes lots of sweet treats, from marshmallow peeps, to jellybeans, to chocolate bunnies! But, will this impact your smile? Some sweets can be more harmful to your teeth than others, and while indulging in your favorite treats every once in a while can be okay, we're here to tell you about some of the most dangerous candies that can lead to tooth decay.

This Easter, and in general, you'll want to avoid:

1. Sticky and gooey candies: These candies, such as caramels, gummies, jelly beans, and taffy, tend to stay in the mouth longer and adhere to the surfaces of your teeth, allowing dangerous oral bacteria to feed off the sugars and create acids that break down your tooth enamel.

1. Hard candies: Rock solid candies like lollipops or jawbreakers tend to stay in your mouth for longer periods of time while you eat them, leaving teeth exposed to sugar during this time. This gives the oral bacteria a greater chance to cause damage. Not to mention, hard candies can cause tooth damage and lead to chipped or broken teeth.

1. Sour treats: Sour treats can be just as tricky as sweet ones. The sugars and acids put your teeth at risk of weakening the outer layer of your teeth, the dental enamel, and offer an environment for damaging bacteria to thrive in and create tooth decay.

Luckily, there are healthier alternatives:

• Dark Chocolates: Dark chocolate is a great option to satisfy your sweet tooth. Research has reported dark chocolate to have properties that help fight cavities and dental plaque. In addition, it has been found to contain nutrients beneficial to health, including potassium, phosphorous, zinc, and selenium. It also contains antioxidants, which can help lower risks of cancer and other diseases. Plus, studies have even found it to have blood pressure lowering effects and increase skin hydration.
• Sugar-Free Treats: Sugar-free candies can be just as tasty and lower your risk of tooth decay.

After satisfying your sweet tooth, be sure to drink water, which helps neutralize harmful acids and rinse away leftover candy particles. You should wait approximately 30 minutes before instructing your child to brush their teeth after having sweets to avoid harming your dental enamel which is in a softened state due to acidity.

Avoid potential dental issues from consuming too much Easter candy! Remember, you can avoid developing cavities with the right plan of action and by following proper oral health guidelines. Proper oral health and seeing your dentist regularly is essential for keeping your pearly whites shining and healthy. If you are having a hard time trying to get your children to brush twice a day for two minutes each time, try implementing fun activities that promote brushing, including videos, books, coloring pages, and even music while brushing.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/kids-oral-care/4-fun-dental-activities-for-children

https://connect2local.com/l/21843/c/259446/3-important-dental-care-tips-for-kids-during-easter

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sunrisedentalcare.com%2Fblog%2Fyour-tooth-friendly-guide-to-easter-candy%2F&psig=AOvVaw3D_Xk2BH6B3Ln2j7qz51Oi&ust=1617635975436000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCPC1sPHx5O8CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAQ

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.littlestepsasia.com%2Fjakarta%2Fshop%2Fkids-shops%2Ffabulous-sticky-candy%2F&psig=AOvVaw02pyEfUSqS5GSZ0_wf-4EG&ust=1617636140871000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCPCMzrHy5O8CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAI

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fspy.com%2Fgallery%2Fbest-sour-candies%2F&psig=AOvVaw0fO87AOzcS3q_GIzc6tfAK&ust=1617636251611000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCIiE3OTy5O8CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAe

https://za.pinterest.com/pin/520799144394923333/

We all know how important taking care of our teeth are, but did you know that in doing so you could be lowering your risk of having severe complications from COVID-19? The human body is fascinating, and throughout the years research has been continuously proving the relationship between our oral conditions and the conditions that can develop throughout the entire body, particularly as a result of systemic inflammation. A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology reported that individuals with a severe form of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, are 9 times more likely to die from infection with COVID-19. 

Periodontal disease has been found to be linked as a culprit of many detrimental health conditions, including diabetes, respiratory disease, chronic kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer's disease, obesity, and metabolic syndrome, just to name a few. In addition, periodontal disease can lead to oral problems such as bad breath, bone loss, and ultimately result in loss of teeth.

More recently, it has been suggested that controlling periodontal gum inflammation could possibly help lower the chance of experiencing severe COVID-19 symptoms

Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology also found that individuals with gum disease who become infected with COVID-19 are 3.5 times more likely to be in the intensive care unit (ICU) and 4.5 times more likely to require use of a ventilator. They found that the blood inflammatory markers were significantly higher in patient with gum disease.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://nypost.com/2021/02/08/covid-19-patients-with-gum-disease-more-likely-to-die-study/

https://www.beckersdental.com/clinical-leadership-infection-control/36224-routine-dental-care-may-prevent-severe-covid-19-complications-study-finds.html

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jcpe.13435

https://www.beckersdental.com/clinical-leadership-infection-control/36458-covid-19-patients-with-gum-disease-9-times-more-likely-to-die-from-the-virus-study-finds.html?origin=DentalE&utm_source=DentalE&utm_medium=email&utm_content=newsletter&oly_enc_id=7754I6987723B8B

https://www.cda.org/Home/News-and-Events/Newsroom/Article-Details/routine-dental-care-may-protect-against-severe-covid-19-related-complications#:~:text=Oral%20bacteria%20can%20be%20aspirated,to%20dentistry%20and%20COVID%2D19.

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fleemingdental.com.au%2Fnew-studies-show-gum-disease-may-increase-severity-of-covid-19%2F&psig=AOvVaw2eU7rvXv9h5qjRprOqk-Bv&ust=1617025137826000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCMDBpqeO0-8CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lanap.com%2F2016%2F09%2F22%2Fsurprising-link-between-gum-disease-and-systemic-disease%2F&psig=AOvVaw2yP2PqAwAjz0-Wnp8RPUO8&ust=1617028498531000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCJjskN-a0-8CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAI

The CDC also recommends that people should still postpone traveling domestically and internationally. If travel is necessary, it is still necessary to follow the essential precautions as stated by the CDC.

If you have tested positive for COVID-19 or are symptomatic, you should not visit with individuals or gather in public places, regardless of whether vaccinated or not. As more information on vaccinations and COVID-19 become available, the CDC will continue to update recommendations for all individuals on their website.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/keythingstoknow.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/fully-vaccinated-guidance.html

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.phila.gov%2F2021-01-12-city-announces-schedule-of-priority-populations-for-covid-19-vaccine%2F&psig=AOvVaw15qHF05S5cpgFG2cDgSveK&ust=1616454376374000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCPi3tf-_wu8CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

World Sleep Day®, which sounds like one of the coolest days ever, is put on yearly to celebrate sleep and inform the public on the importance of sleep, which can often be overlooked. This year it's held today, Friday March 19th, 2021, with this year's slogan being ‘Regular Sleep, Healthy Future.’ ! Organized by the World Sleep Day Committee of the World Sleep Society, this day of awareness brings to light prevention and management of sleep disorders, education about sleep, sleep medications, and driving issues related to sleep.

Why is sleep important?

There are many benefits to getting a regular amount of sleep, and it's an essential part of life. Several research studies have reported that having a regular bedtime and getting the recommended amount of sleep for your age plays an important role in the quality of your life, including its effect on your mood, psychomotor performance, and even your academic performance. That's why a lack of sleep or chronic sleep interruptions can negatively impact your health.

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is one of the more common sleep disorders that you may have heard a lot about, which impacts approximately 25 million Americans, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Common signs of sleep apnea include snoring, insomnia, trouble remembering, trouble breathing, gasping for air during sleep, daytime tiredness, trouble concentrating, dry mouth, headaches shortly after waking up, frequent urination during night time, and sexual dysfunction. Children may also show signs of sleep apnea including worsening of asthma, hyperactivity, bed-wetting, and trouble concentrating in school. Individuals with sleep apnea are plagued with constant breathing interruptions during their sleep cycles due to a lack of oxygen reaching the lungs. According to the American Sleep Apnea Association, approximately 4% of children ages 2-8 years old have sleep apnea. Surprisingly, untreated sleep apnea can even be threatening if not enough oxygen reaches the lungs.

Is there a specific cause of sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea could be caused from many different factors, including weak airway muscles, an enlarged tongue, enlarged neck, obesity, small jaw bone, nasal or sinus issues, and the position of your lower jaw. In addition, males and individuals with a family history of snoring or sleep apnea are at an increased risk of having sleep apnea.

How does my oral health factor into sleep conditions?

Plus, sleep disorders like sleep apnea can also impact your dental health and vice versa. Getting adequate rest helps reduce the risk of having bad breath, oral sores, and worsening of gum disease. Individuals with sleep apnea often have temporomandibular disorders (TMJ), experience teeth grinding or clenching, and also mouth breathing. A research study showed individuals with sleep apnea are 3 times as likely to have a TMJ disorder, which is often characterized by trouble chewing, jaw, head, neck and shoulder pain, clicking sounds of the jaws, and locked jaw where the jaw is unable to open or close temporarily. In addition, mouth breathing can also cause dry mouth which is another factor that contribute to gum disease and dental cavities, and if not resolved can even result in tooth loss.

The World Sleep Society recommends these 10 tips to help you achieve better sleep leading to a healthier overall life:

If you believe you suffer from a sleep condition, be sure to discuss your symptoms with your primary Doctor and dental professional.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://worldsleepsociety.org/programs/world-sleep-day/

https://www.verywellhealth.com/sleep-apnea-and-oral-health-4587690

https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about_sleep/how_much_sleep.html

https://worldsleepday.org/tips-for-adults

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fholisticdentalcenternj.com%2Fsleep-oral-health%2F&psig=AOvVaw3Km_gH_SEXjLbWXF8PaFiL&ust=1616166659444000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCPiJq52Quu8CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAY

National Nutrition Month^® is back and always an important topic of discussion as our diet significantly impacts our oral and overall health. This annual campaign each March put on by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics highlights knowledge about healthy food choices, the nutrition our body's need, and the importance of physical activity. It's important to note that there's no one single way to approach nutrition and health, as we all have individual shapes, sizes, and different taste preferences.

In 1973 the first National Nutrition Week campaign occurred with a presidential proclamation and a lot of media coverage, featuring the theme, Invest in Yourself—Buy Nutrition. This year's theme in 2021 is Personalize Your Plate, which emphasizes creating healthy meals to meet your specific cultural and personal food needs.

Plus, the second Wednesday of March is also recognized as Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day, which celebrates the hard work of registered dietitian nutritionist (RDNs) around the world. There are tons of resources available as part of the campaign to help spread the message of good nutrition and positive lifestyle habits. For updates on virtual events/resources check out the National Nutrition Month^® social media including Facebook and Twitter using #NationalNutritionMonth.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics also has an online Find an Expert service which allows you to find registered dietitian nutritionists in your area. MyPlate is another great resource that allows you to see your plate organized by recommended nutrients, grains, protein-rich foods, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat or fat-free dairy.

One of the messages promoted is that proper nutrition is important at each stage of life. National spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in Philadelphia, Pa, and registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN), Colleen Tewksbury, stated “What works for you in your twenties won’t necessarily work for you in your fifties. As you age and evolve, so do your health and nutrition needs. It’s important to eat right for life.” In your teens and 20's, it's important to build bone density by keeping your diet rich in foods and drinks containing calcium, including fat-free or low-fat dairy milk, yogurt, or calcium-fortified soy beverages. Non-dairy calcium can also be found in fortified cereals, beans, and some leafy greens, for instance. In your 20's to 30's, it's essential to help lower your risk of developing detrimental medical conditions like obesity, Type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Fiber, such as whole grains, legumes, fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds should be included in your diet. Sources of folate, including beans, peas and dark-green leafy vegetables, and folic acid like breads, cereals and other grain products. Throughout life it is always important to exercise regularly and limit added sugars, salt and saturated fat.

Take a look at some healthy tips on how to shape your month, and each month thereafter:

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.eatright.org/food/resources/national-nutrition-month

https://www.newswise.com/articles/national-nutrition-month-2021-eat-right-for-life-stages

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwell-concepts.com%2Fnational-nutrition-month-2018%2F&psig=AOvVaw3QmPo7ua5d5cgodmpnG3xX&ust=1615471026428000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCPC0_4Hxpe8CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAJ

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.eatrightutah.org%2Fblog%2F2020%2F02%2F25%2Fnational-nutrition-month-are-you-ready%2F&psig=AOvVaw3QmPo7ua5d5cgodmpnG3xX&ust=1615471026428000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCPC0_4Hxpe8CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAQ

Migraines can be a nuisance! If you've ever suffered a migraine, you know how significant an attack can feel. Could your dentist help relieve your migraines? In some cases, yes! A study published by the American Society for Microbiology suggests that certain oral bacteria known to increase nitric oxide in the bloodstream can cause the blood vessels in the brain to widen, which consequently can trigger the onset of a migraine.

As you may know, there are many factors that could be the cause of your headaches or migraine, and treatment requires a correct diagnosis. Migraines are commonly known to be triggered by foods high in nitrates and nitrites, which are often found in processed meats like hot dogs, ham and bacon, alcohol, and even chocolate.

In addition, migraines may be triggered by other certain factors, including:

• Stress
• Anxiety
• Female hormonal changes
• Bright or flashing lights
• Loud noises
• Strong smells
• Medications
• Excess or lack of sleep
• Sudden changes in weather or environment
• Increased physical activity
• Tobacco
• Caffeine or caffeine withdrawal
• Skipped meals
• Medication overuse

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.deltadentalins.com/oral_health/migraines-oral-bacteria.html

https://drania.com/why-your-migraines-might-be-caused-by-oral-bacteria/

https://blog.themigrainereliefcenter.com/connection-between-migraines-and-tooth-pain

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.infinitydentalfoxlake.com%2Fdental-concerns%2Ffrequent-headaches%2F&psig=AOvVaw37hxjRFQJvc6UPujGNOF7b&ust=1613951004832000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCIjc9f_S-e4CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAm

https://medlineplus.gov/migraine.html

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fgenesisresearchservices.com%2Fmigraine-symptoms-treatment-clinical-trials%2F&psig=AOvVaw2YMfuEAnZGCULPV5PlPlxP&ust=1613957134912000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCND76oDp-e4CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAJ

Every year, many organizations and individuals across the nation recognize National Eating Disorders Awareness Week (#NEDAwareness), which is the biggest and most recognized eating disorders education effort in the United States. This year, NEDAwareness Week runs from Monday, February 22 - Sunday, February 28. This national event aims is to shed light on eating disorders through educating, spreading hope, and making resources accessible to individuals in need. The theme for 2021 is "Every Body to Has a Seat at the Table."

According to the campaign, approximately 30 million people in the United States will be affected by an eating disorder during their lifetime. Even though this year brings additional challenges as we combat COVID-19, communities across the nation are still coming together to raise awareness through social media events, virtual discussions, and more informative and cool activities.

As reported by the National Eating Disorders Association, eating disorders have been found to be most common in teenagers and young adult women, although they can effect people of any gender or age. Eating disorders can negatively impact a person's physical and mental well-being, and have an effect on personal relationships, confidence, and overall performance at life tasks. In addition, eating disorders can have a significant impact on an individual's oral health. Your teeth, gums, and the surrounding oral tissues depend on healthy nutrients and a healthy diet.

Eating disorders can stem from many physical, mental and social hardships. If you suffer from an eating disorder, it’s important to talk to your health care providers so that proper diagnosis and treatment can begin.

So, what are some of the different types of eating disorders?

• Anorexia: Individuals with anorexia may experience severe fear of gaining weight and may experience negative thoughts on the way their body appears. Signs may include individuals starving themselves to avoid gaining weight, and excessive exercise.
• Bulimia: This condition is similar to anorexia in the sense that individuals may also have fears of being overweight. However, individuals may also experience periods of overeating/binge eating followed by self-induced vomiting, purging, misusing laxatives, or fasting throughout the day or several times throughout the week.
• Binge Eating or Compulsive Overeating: This condition involves individuals who binge eat but do not regularly try to purge the food. Individuals may experience feelings of guilt, making it easier to continue to overeat.

In fact, your dentist may be the first to notice the signs of an eating disorder as changes in the mouth are often the first physical signs that become noticeable. Unfortunately, eating disorders can cause permanent damage to the teeth and oral tissues. Recognizing the signs of an eating disorder early can help lead to a better and easier road to recovery for the body and mouth.

Some of the oral consequences of eating disorders include:

• Easily bleeding gums
• Swollen salivary glands which may cause Individuals to experience chronic dry mouth, increasing the risk of developing tooth decay.
• Lack of nutrients that promote healthy teeth such as calcium, iron and vitamins B and D can also increase the risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease. Lack of iron can lead to the development of oral sores. Similarly, improper amounts of vitamin B3/niacin can lead to bad breath (halitosis) and the development of oral canker sores. Gums may also become puffy and red.
• Frequent vomiting causes the tooth enamel, or the outer layer of your teeth, to become weak, eroded, soft, and become yellow in color due to the highly acidic environment created from stomach acids. This can create tooth sensitivity when eating hot or cold foods or drinks, and eventually lead to tooth and tissue loss. As enamel wears away, the layer underneath, the dentin, can become exposed and in extreme cases the pulp, which is the next layer of the tooth underneath the dentin, can be exposed and cause infection and pulp death. Tooth decay can even be worsened by extensive tooth brushing following vomiting due to the acidity and weakened state of the mouth.
  

  Water should be rinsed with following purging to help reduce the high acidic content in the mouth. Vomiting can also induce inflammation, cuts, and soreness of the roof of the mouth/soft palate.

• Degenerative arthritis of the jaw's temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are also associated with eating disorders. This can lead to jaw pain, chronic headaches, and problems chewing and opening/closing the mouth.

If you suffer from an eating disorder, it is important to contact a health professional. To help reduce associated oral health issues it is also important to maintain oral health care by proper tooth brushing and flossing, and frequent visits to your dentist. Your dentist may provide fluoride rinses or other products to help remineralize tooth enamel.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/get-involved/nedawareness

https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/dental-complications-eating-disorders

https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/e/eating-disorders

Our loving team at WDG is wishing you a Happy Valentine's Day! Valentine’s Day is known for being a day full of love and sweet treats in appreciation of our relationships with others. Although delicious, we all know that sugary treats can be harmful to our teeth. But, what if we told you that there are some treats with added heart-healthy benefits to them?

Red wine and dark chocolate are two delights that have been found to have some overall health and oral health benefits. Both are high in antioxidants, which play a big role in helping to decrease the "bad cholesterol" and protect the inside of your blood vessels. Antioxidants are known to protect against free radicals, which are highly chemically reactive molecules that are involved in the cellular aging process. Take a look at some of the other surprising benefits of red wine and dark chocolate:

Ready to Pour a Glass of Red Wine?

Red wine has been found to help fight against heart issues, diabetes, and neurodegenerative problems, while also helping to boost your gut's immune system. New studies have even suggested that red wine may add protective benefits against the adverse effects of aging.

It also contains resveratrol, which has been found to lower the amount of "bad cholesterol" also known as LDL cholesterol. Resveratol also helps lower your blood pressure, which can make you feel more relaxed and at ease. Plus, it increases the amount of omega-3 in plasma and red blood cells, which helps lower the risk of developing blood clots. Furthermore, ethanol alcohol, another ingredient in wine, helps improve your “good cholesterol," also known as HDL cholesterol. 

Not to mention, researchers have even found red wine to be beneficial for your oral health. They have suggested that polyphenols in red wine can help block specific bacteria from sticking to your teeth and causing harm such as tooth decay and gum disease. Plus, when absorbed into the small intestine, they can help fight off the bad gut bacteria and help keep your digestive system functioning properly. But, the downside is that red wine can stain your teeth.

Have a Craving for some Chocolate?

Dark chocolate is another tasty delight that has been found to have blood pressure lowering effects.The flavanols inside can help loosen the lining of the arteries, allowing blood to flow more easily through the blood vessels. They also help lower LDL cholesterol levels and raise HDL cholesterol levels.

However, not all chocolate is created equally. The darker the chocolate, the better. This is due to the fact that unprocessed cocoa beans have lots of antioxidants that get removed during the refining process, plus high amounts of sugar are often added to manufactured chocolate. It's important to read nutrition labels to keep an eye out for potentially counteractive health effects. You'll want to aim for having chocolate with 70% or higher cocoa content. Dark chocolate typically contains less sugar and is a better option than other types of chocolate. It has also been found that theobromine in chocolate has similar effects as fluoride, which can help strengthen tooth enamel.

But, this doesn't mean to go to town on consuming chocolate and wine in surplus. It's important to enjoy these items in moderation, as too much of these treats can be unhealthy. So, remember this Valentine's Day, it's important to show your mouth some love, too!

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bluffton.com%2Fheres-healthy-valentines-day-wine-chocolate%2F&psig=AOvVaw2m7c1F4F3HsTvEfXpPj2o8&ust=1613432092968000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCJDMtYnF6u4CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAE

https://www.bluffton.com/heres-healthy-valentines-day-wine-chocolate/

https://www.healthline.com/health-news/red-wine-can-help-protect-your-teeth#Looking-ahead

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321028#Polyphenols-to-the-rescue

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.synergyworldwideblog.com%2F2016%2F06%2Fnew-antioxidant-infographic.html&psig=AOvVaw0ae2yQJxrIQofLC1Jb4Ipk&ust=1613436254395000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCPjf5MjU6u4CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAJ

Love is in the air! With Valentine's Day approaching there will be lots of kisses, roses, hearts, candy, chocolates, kind words, and lovely memories exchanged by many as people across the United States celebrate the occasion. As you begin to make plans for this special day, there is one important thing that you won't want to neglect: oral hygiene! Take a look at these tips and facts to get you ready to have a happy Valentine's Day:

Are cavities contagious?

When sharing your love with a kiss or even with a fork while indulging in tasty treats, you can also be passing harmful bacteria that can cause dental cavities. Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day and don't forget about flossing to help stay cavity-free! In addition, sharing items such as toothbrushes should be avoided.

Fighting bad breath

Everybody dislikes bad breath, but it can be fought! Bad breath can be caused by a number of factors, including poor oral hygiene, certain food, dental decay from bacteria, alcohol, smoking, or other health problems. For healthy fresh smelling breath you'll want to make sure that you have a superb daily oral hygiene routine. This includes brushing not just your teeth, but also your tongue which houses bacteria and food particles. Alcohol-free antibacterial mouth rinses can also help fight oral bacteria and gum disease, while also adding a minty fresh flavor. Other items such as sugarless chewing gum and sugar-free breath mints are also great options when you're on the run. If it's date night, you may want to stay away from pungent foods such as onions and garlic. If bad breath has been a persistent problem where nothing seems to help, there may be an underlying oral health problem going on s including tooth decay or gum disease, which your dental professional will help diagnose.

Want a brighter smile?

Teeth whitening treatments can help give you a confident bright smile. Teeth can become stained for many reasons, including tobacco use, certain medications, red wine, coffee, tea, soda, and age. There are several products and techniques available for patients who want to whiten their teeth. Come schedule an appointment and talk to the Smile Ambassadors at Wellesley Dental Group about the differences between in-office professional whitening and at-home whitening. Check out the in-office professional whitening we offer, here.

Try to quit smoking

Smoking is not only bad for your overall health, but also can damage your oral health, cause bad breath, stain teeth, and increase your risk of developing gum disease and oral cancer.

Be mindful of Valentine's sweets

Just like Halloween, Valentine's Day can involve many delicious sweets that unfortunately can cause damage to your teeth. Try to avoid sticky candies like caramel and sweets high in sugar. If consuming sugary treats be sure to brush, floss, and consume water. Remember, everything in moderation is key.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/adults-under-40/healthy-habits/valentines-day

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbenefitsbridge.unitedconcordia.com%2Fprepping-your-mouth-for-valentines-day%2F&psig=AOvVaw2R5qQFym3CZhppDr2-_Dpa&ust=1613095480988000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCOjG2JDf4O4CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAl

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.harfordcountydentistry.com%2Fdental-services%2Fteeth-whitening-fallston-md%2F&psig=AOvVaw0I-oJ_6i1FrU__AcMi7zbU&ust=1613099032360000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCPiQta3s4O4CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

https://www.googleadservices.com/pagead/aclk?sa=L&ai=DChcSEwjI4Pzi7ODuAhUOlYYKHSnbDdkYABAEGgJ2dQ&ohost=www.google.com&cid=CAESQOD2ADCi7YHbjslc6Pqo6DvBT_-f5xBf0SybDnuVhmKJBx9ZQPruemVTiOr-_qgaYQQS9t_wNoNUBTxnkoCRiW4&sig=AOD64_0rs9Jtchsiym5SLpQWkgVpkf4Mvw&ctype=5&q=&ved=2ahUKEwi1lPPi7ODuAhWMwVkKHb5mDPEQ9aACegQIFxB7&adurl=

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.heart.org/en/about-us/heart-attack-and-stroke-symptoms

https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/about.htm

https://www.heart.org/en/around-the-aha/february-is-american-heart-month

https://www.heart.org/

https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/02/03/proclamation-on-american-heart-month-2021/#:~:text=NOW%2C%20THEREFORE%2C%20I%2C%20JOSEPH,Day%20on%20February%205%2C%202021.

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fagrilifetoday.tamu.edu%2F2021%2F02%2F01%2Ffebruary-ideal-month-to-focus-on-the-heart%2F&psig=AOvVaw3k1yOhgjxMumS-DAp6K0KY&ust=1612713316611000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCOji3b3P1e4CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAE

Ever notice the rough small bumps on the top of your tongue when you look in the mirror? These bumps, known as papillae, naturally appear on all of our tongues and are typically the same color as the tongue. These bumps often appear small and have different names depending on their form and location. The bumps located in the front of the tongue and are called fungiform papillae, whereas the bumps appear slightly larger and in a V-shape near the back of the throat and are called circumvallate papillae. The Fungiform papillae contain taste buds and help us enjoy all of the tasty delicious foods we love.

Other types of papillae include Filiform papillae, which is the most common type and the only form of papillae that does not have taste buds. Another form of papillae are called Foliate papillae, which are present on the sides of your tongue.

Sometimes, you may notice the bumps become enlarged and inflamed. This could be due to a number of reasons, including canker sores, an oral infection, and in rare cases due to oral cancer. Take a look at some of the common causes of enlarged papillae:

• Canker sores can be a real pain, and typically take around 10-14 days to resolve themselves without treatment. Canker sores typically present as painful red lesions. Over-the counter pain medications and salt-water rinses may help temporarily relieve pain.

• Oral thrush is another condition that may trigger enlarged tongue papillae. It is caused by an accumulation of the fungus Candida albicans. It presents with white patches on the tongue or cheeks inside of the mouth, and may cause trouble swallowing and discomfort. Oral thrush is typically managed with oral anti-fungal medications prescribed by a health professional.

• Lie bumps/transient lingual papillitis may occur as a result of the papillae being irritated, and is believed to be caused by stress, poor nutrition, smoking, allergic reactions, particular foods, or hormones, although definitive causes have not been determined. They present as small white or red bumps on the surface of the tongue. These bumps can also be painful and may alter your sense of taste. Lie bumps typically heal on their own after a few days and no treatment is necessary. However, if you are experiencing extreme pain or notice that the bumps do not resolve after several days, contact a health professional.

• Leukoplakia, which is characterized by white patches, may appear on the gums, cheeks, or tongue. It is often associated with use of tobacco products. These lesions are typically noncancerous, however, it is a risk factor for oral cancer. Leukoplakia is usually painless and will heal on its own. Contact a dental professional if these lesions fail to heal or develop a red border.

• Squamous cell papilloma may be present on the tongue and is often described as small noncancerous bumps. This condition is typically cause by infection with human papillomavirus (HPV). In rare cases this condition may become cancerous.

• Oral cancer may occur in rare instances on the back of the tongue. Oral cancer may present as painful white or red bumps, and may bleed. These lesions must be biopsied for proper diagnosis and may be referred to an oncologist.
• Eruptive lingual papillitis is a condition commonly seen in children, where the tongue may have show enlarged papillae. This condition is contagious and is typically caused by a viral infection. It typically resolves on its own in several days and does not require treatment.

If you notice enlarged or inflamed papilla on your tongue, usually there’s no need to be concerned. But, if the tongue bumps do not seem to be resolving or you are experiencing excruciating pain or trouble swallowing or speaking, it is best to consult your health care professional to be evaluated. In general, if you notice swollen tongue papilla, it is helpful to drink lots of water, use an alcohol-free mouthwash, avoid irritants such as tobacco products and acidic or spicy foods, and continue to practice proper oral hygiene.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/adult-oral-care/bumps-on-the-back-of-the-tongue-normal-or-abnormal

https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/tongue-hygiene/tongue-bumps-enlarged-papillae-and-other-problems

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/mouth-sores-and-infections/what-are-lie-bumps

https://dermnetnz.org/topics/transient-lingual-papillitis/

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.yourdentistryguide.com%2Foral-thrush%2F&psig=AOvVaw1-pmhZ1xVNnaRPZH2Y1bor&ust=1612298599089000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCMilgr_Gye4CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.yahoo.com%2Flifestyle%2Fcovid-tongue-strange-under-radar-190918223.html&psig=AOvVaw1okqk9pwvqj3GIsNKzeD3u&ust=1612299042198000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCODdspTIye4CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAK

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Flupinepublishers.com%2Fpediatric-dentistry-journal%2Ffulltext%2Foral-squamous-papilloma-on-the-tongue-of-a-12-year-old-female.ID.000145.php&psig=AOvVaw01nbY9t8HGNp7Df3asdpPA&ust=1612299130445000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCJjMm7zIye4CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nhs.uk%2Fconditions%2Fleukoplakia%2F&psig=AOvVaw24H7bkZnsUX2BuuAJDJ8vG&ust=1612299331426000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCLi24JrJye4CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.medicalnewstoday.com%2Farticles%2Fcanker-sore-on-tongue&psig=AOvVaw0dbRgjnKhBPJl4I-YCAnTR&ust=1612299384991000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCLi8kLTJye4CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

Swollen, red, and tender gums, mobile teeth, bad breath, tooth loss: Do these symptoms sound familiar? Periodontal disease, also known as a later and more harmful form of gum disease, is a commonly reported disease as approximately 47.2% of adults over the age of 30 years in the United States have some degree of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is an inflammatory disease which has been linked to many other systemic diseases, for instance, metabolic syndrome, heart disease, diabetes, and much more. Earlier research has even showed a link between gum disease and chronic kidney disease. Studies have suggested that gum inflammation can lead to worsened kidney function.

A new study conducted by researchers at the University of Birmingham evaluated the connection between periodontal inflammation and kidney function. They analyzed more than 700 patients with chronic kidney disease and found that simply a 10% increase in gum inflammation lowers kidney function by 3%! They found that the increase in gum inflammation also increases the risk of kidney failure from 32%-34% over a 5 year period. The study also reported that a 10% reduction in kidney function increases periodontal inflammation by 25%.

The researchers reported that the link between periodontal disease and kidney function was a result of oxidative stress, which is a biological process where the body’s tissues become damaged due to an improper amount of oxygen reactive species (ROS) and antioxidants in the body. This is groundbreaking research because, "This is the first paper to quantify the casual effect of periodontitis on kidney function and vice-versa as well as the first to elucidate the pathways involved…It showed that even a modest reduction in gum inflammation can benefit renal function. Given the relative ease of achieving a 10% reduction in gum inflammation, through simple measures like correct brushing techniques and cleaning between the teeth, these results are very interesting,” according to lead study author, Dr Praveen Sharma.

As more research continues to be done pertaining to kidney function and periodontal disease, it will be exciting to see how improvement in oral health can help improve the overall health of individuals.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/conditions/periodontal-disease.html

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/01/210105095615.htm

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.absolutedental.com%2Fblog%2F10-health-issues-caused-by-bad-oral-health%2F&psig=AOvVaw0BlLu29W0Q6Syx-TQYHyPf&ust=1611606783829000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCKipqam1te4CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fmedium.com%2F%40DrBonnie360%2Fthe-oral-microbiome-a-new-culture-of-health-well-being-1d26147214d9&psig=AOvVaw1V3wcDToy99LCHCrkzV5PZ&ust=1611606934043000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCKi0jOm1te4CFQAAAAAdAAAAABA8

Dry or chapped lips can be a true mood killer, especially when you’re trying to speak, eat, or smile! Chapped lips are extremely uncomfortable, and when they begin to peel it can be a real pain, both literally and figuratively.  Even so, dry lips also look painful. It’s important to know how to care for your lips and keep them healthy and protected.

But what causes dry lips to occur? According to the Cleveland Clinic, the skin that makes up the lips are thin and can dry out 10 times quicker than the skin on other areas of the face. People may experience dry lips as a result of an allergic reaction, trauma, cold weather, frequent licking of the lips, smoking, mouth breathing, dehydration, certain medications, medical conditions (i.e. lupus) , ultraviolet rays from sun exposure, and nutritional deficiencies, for instance.

With dry lips also may come cracking at the corners of the mouth, known as angular cheilitis. The corners of the mouth can also become infected by bacteria. Individuals who suck their thumbs or those who wear poorly fitted dentures have an increased risk of developing angular cheilitis.

Signs of angular cheilitis can include:

• Bleeding
• Blisters
• Cracks
• Crust
• Itchy
• Painful
• Red
• Scaly
• Swollen

Another form of cheilitis is actinic cheilitis, which is dry lips caused by excessive sun exposure.

Luckily, dry lips can be managed! Be sure to keep your lips protected in both cold and hot environments, as both cool windy weather and sun exposure on a hot summer day can be harsh on your lips. Try using a lip balm with sunscreen to help keep your lips moist. The American Academy of Dermatology also recommends using lip balms containing petroleum jelly to help keep the lips moist. Plus, if you notice the air in your home is dry, a humidifier can help add moisture to the air and help manage dry lips. Not to mention, staying hydrated with water is particularly necessary to keep your skin healthy. If you notice any lip dryness or irritation after using a new lip balm or face moisture, be cautious with use as it may be a sign of an allergic reaction.

Avoid licking your lips when they feel chapped at all costs, as this makes them drier than before. It's also important not to peel or bite your lips when they feel dry and flaky. If these tips and tricks don’t seem to help, or if you notice your condition is severe, be sure to check with a dermatologist or doctor to help manage dry lips.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/angular-cheilitis#1

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/dry-mouth/waking-up-with-dry-mouth

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/6-tips-to-protect-your-lips-from-the-cold/

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodhousekeeping.com%2Fbeauty%2Fanti-aging%2Ftips%2Fa16642%2Fdry-skin-relief%2F&psig=AOvVaw2q6L4bDOs8a569C9nqWpYX&ust=1611288398240000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCKDjt5yTrO4CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAK

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wikihow.health%2FHelp-Chapped-Lips&psig=AOvVaw2q6L4bDOs8a569C9nqWpYX&ust=1611288398240000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCKDjt5yTrO4CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAQ

Believe it or not, bacteria living inside of our bodies is a natural part of our lives. Even within our mouths there are tons of bacteria living harmoniously. A new study performed by researchers at Harvard University in the Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology assessed the oral microbiome to learn more about why certain bacteria tend to be abundant in particular places of the mouth while not present in other places. The study, which was published in Genome Biology this past December, found numerous genes that may explain why this phenomenon occurs.

Lead author of the study Daniel R. Utter noted, "As microbial ecologists, we are fascinated by how bacteria can seemingly divide up any habitat into various niches, but as humans ourselves, we also have this innate curiosity about how microbes pattern themselves within our bodies." The study authors also questioned how bacteria may end up in the wrong place within our bodies, and how might we add the correct bacteria into its normal place when necessary? New technology in the field has helped researchers tackle these questions and some of the major challenges in analyzing the diverse groups of bacteria and their scientific properties.

According to the study, the mouth carries an astonishing amount of site-specific microbes in different areas. For example, the microbes found on the tongue are unique to the microbes found in the plaque on the surfaces of your teeth.  Co-author A. Murat Eren, assistant professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of Chicago, stated, "Your tongue microbes are more similar to those living on someone else's tongue than they are to those living in your throat or on your gums!"

The researchers first looked at 100 genomes representing four common oral bacterial species as references, and then compared them to the oral bacteria sampled in the mouths of hundreds of volunteer research participants from the Human Microbiome Project (HMP). They found a significant amount of variability of bacteria between different parts of the mouth, in particular on the tongue, cheeks, and tooth surfaces.  In several instances the researchers identified a specific group of genes that may play a role in the bacterial group's specific location within the mouth.

The researchers hope that these findings could help the future of targeted probiotics to help manipulate beneficial microbes to a specific location. They are looking forward to further research that could offer new knowledge on oral microbes and our health.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/12/201218165105.htm

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fdrania.com%2Fwhy-your-migraines-might-be-caused-by-oral-bacteria%2F&psig=AOvVaw0oGXkMwn-7bAtEvxTfSlml&ust=1610819537876000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCLj5kcbAnu4CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAJ

So, one important thing that the researchers noted in their study is how periodontal disease can impact other parts of the body, and not just the mouth. More research is needed to investigate the link between periodontal disease and metabolic syndrome.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/12/201208111428.htm

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/metabolic-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20351916

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fflairzhealth.com%2Fwhat-is-the-metabolic-syndrome%2F&psig=AOvVaw2Cz9QHTUqmTqo55YxjB1dP&ust=1610405890584000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCMiIksu7ku4CFQAAAAAdAAAAABA3

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dockeodental.com%2Fgum-disease%2F&psig=AOvVaw1fQ3ks6wQZmJ_Jv-DJufGS&ust=1610406249444000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCLi0-vm8ku4CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAp

It’s a new year, which for many means starting the year off with a clean slate and resolutions to achieve throughout the year. 2021 is here, and like many individuals, improving health typically tops the list for New Year’s resolutions, as people often place exercising more and eating healthier as a high priority. What about your dental health? Improving your dental health can be another great resolution to incorporate on your list. Preventing tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues is key to improving your overall wellness. Sometimes, we make New Year’s resolutions that don’t always stick after the holidays, however, making small strides to achieve your goals can be a perfect start.

Check out these resolutions that can help improve your dental health this New Year:

Improve your Oral Hygiene Routine

As you know, brushing and flossing each day are key to helping fight against cavities and a long list of oral health issues. It is important to brush at least twice a day for two minutes each time, particularly after eating and before bedtime. For proper brushing, an ADA-approved soft bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste are recommended. Your toothbrush should be angled toward your gum line when brushing and use gentle and short strokes to help remove the food particles and oral bacteria. You also don’t want to forget to brush your tongue! According to the American Dental Association (ADA), you should replace your toothbrush approximately every 3 to 4 months, or sooner if you have been sick or you notice the bristles are frayed. But, the fun shouldn’t stop there, flossing is equally important. It’s necessary to floss at least once a day to help remove food particles in hard-to-reach areas in between teeth where most cavities begin. Flossing is also important to help reduce your risk of gum disease. Flossing can be easy to forget sometimes, but try putting a reminder in your phone or calendar, or place a box of floss in your purse or out on the counter so that it is visible. Not to mention, flossing and brushing properly will help keep your breath fresh. Plus, using an antimicrobial and fluoride mouth rinse daily can be a great addition to improve your oral health.

Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods

Your diet plays a huge role in your oral health, too. Cavity-causing bacteria love to eat sugar and starches. If food particles are left on the surfaces of teeth, the bacteria can produce acids from the dental plaque which damages your tooth enamel and can lead to decay. In addition, acidic foods can lead to enamel erosion and weaken your teeth. Try checking food and beverage labels to see the sugar content and do your best to only consume these items in moderation. Instead of sugary treats, try adding more tooth-friendly healthy foods to your diet. This can include foods like dairy products, which are high in calcium. In addition, foods high in fiber often stimulate saliva and can help naturally remove dental plaque. If consuming sugary or acidic beverages, grab a straw to help limit the beverages contact with your teeth and be sure to drink water afterwards to help rinse your mouth.

Drink Lots of Water

Water not only will improve your overall health, but also your dental health, too. Staying hydrated with water is necessary to helping prevent cavities by diluting acids within the mouth and rinsing away food particles.

Quit Using Tobacco Products

This year, say no to tobacco use to help improve your oral and overall health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), smoking has been found to double your risk for gum disease, and is related to many other health problems. Try checking out the Massachusetts Tobacco Cessation and Prevention Program, which offers information and resources that can help individuals quit. Also, check out a list of resources and other helpful information on our WDG blog here.

Schedule your Dental Visit

Be sure to schedule your dental check-up to help maintain your oral health. Dental visits are necessary to ensure the health of your mouth and to catch any disease or oral health problem early so that it can be managed appropriately. The New Year is also the perfect time to finish or begin any dental work, for instance dental crowns, implants, or fillings. If you are interested in brightening your smile, talk with your dentist about whitening options. The New Year may also be a great time to correct an abnormal bite or straighten your teeth with orthodontic treatment.

So, what’s on your resolution list this year?

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.drappolon.com%2Fyour-2020-dental-health-resolutions%2F&psig=AOvVaw3UdZWSibfwUM2X_3HyhT0K&ust=1609698909190000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCJC3mPjx_e0CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAc

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/adult-oral-care/a-new-years-you-dental-health-resolutions

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/brushing-and-flossing/looking-after-your-teeth-five-new-years-resolutions-for-a-healthier-mouth

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/cavities/how-to-prevent-cavities-healthy-new-years-dental-resolutions

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwonderopolis.org%2Fwonder%2Fwhat-is-junk-food&psig=AOvVaw0NVDd4oVZg4fLnskBzTH3R&ust=1609821743313000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCOjFgMC7ge4CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAJ

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fmoffitt.org%2Fendeavor%2Farchive%2Fmoffitt-continues-the-countdown-to-quit-smoking%2F&psig=AOvVaw0dt7Ai5sWirDPFidYASb3k&ust=1609821820530000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCJDrnOS7ge4CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.timesofisrael.com%2Fis-this-water-safe-to-drink-israeli-startup-lets-you-know%2F&psig=AOvVaw2gYJQF0YbHsHoiNPTP6iZm&ust=1609821869743000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCMjmkPm7ge4CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dentalcare.com%2Fen-us%2Fpatient-education%2Fpatient-materials%2Fmanual-brushing-and-flossing&psig=AOvVaw1wmUVWNn4IE_X2w9yl2-W2&ust=1609821923248000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCLCU45G8ge4CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

As the pandemic still remains as we approach the holidays and a new year, we know that we must all continue to do our part to avoid increasing our and other people’s risk of contracting COVID-19. Although normal family gatherings and celebrations will be different this winter, we must not forget about our mental and physical health (including the health of our teeth!)

Please review some of these quick tips to consider this holiday season:

Manage your Stress

The holidays can be stressful, especially during a global pandemic! Anxiety and stress can lead to the development of detrimental habits if not managed properly. Some harmful dental habits include teeth grinding (bruxism), nail biting, and using your teeth as tools such as to crack open nuts, bottles, or packages. These negative habits can lead to tooth enamel fracture and the need for additional dental procedures. In addition, nail biting can add germs and viruses from the outside world into your body. If you notice that your stress levels may be out of control, take a look at some tips to stay mentally and physically healthy during these troubling times, here.

Stay On Top of Your Dental Hygiene Routine

It can be easy to get off of your normal oral hygiene routine over the holidays. With lots of shopping and holiday festivities, brushing or flossing your teeth may get pushed to the wayside. But, letting food sit on and in-between your teeth can cause the bacteria within your mouth to have a field day, and not a fun one! The bacteria can feed off of the leftover food particles and create acids that breakdown your tooth enamel. It’s important to stay on track and brush at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Flossing is also an important part of keeping your teeth healthy and dazzling. If you are traveling this holiday season, be sure to continue to follow COVID-19 safety precautions and also pack your complete dental care travel kit equipped with a toothbrush, a fluoride toothpaste, dental floss, and mouthwash. Remember, keeping up with your oral hygiene is important for managing your overall health.

Watch out for Sticky and Chewy Sweets

Lots of tasty holiday treats are what we all usually look forward to during this time. But, the sticky, hard, chewy, and high sugar content in some sweets can be damaging to your teeth and lead to the development of cavities, toothaches, and tooth fracture. For instance, holiday staples like dried fruit, eggnog, candy canes, caramel, candy apples, and gummies can be damaging to your teeth. Plus, soda and alcohol can be high in sugar and can be acidic. Be sure to brush and floss after consuming these treats and remember, moderation is key. It is also better to consume these treats with meals rather than as snacks throughout the day, because snacking increases the frequency your mouth is subject to a more acidic and harmful environment. Instead, opt for more tooth-friendly treats such as nuts, cheeses, fruit, and vegetables.

Keep up with Your Dentist Check-Ups

Make sure that you are visiting your dentist for your regular check-ups. Let your dentist know of any concerns you may have about your mouth. Your dentist will check during your oral exam for any issues to ensure your overall health.

Keep your teeth merry and bright by following these precautions over the holiday season.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ne.ncsu.edu%2Fnews%2F2019%2Fhappy-holidays-wish%2F&psig=AOvVaw2gBvcZVXZ-6wQybqP0tmMH&ust=1608911250601000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCNin38775u0CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAT

https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/holiday-smile#

https://www.dentalassociates.com/blog/7-oral-health-tips-and-tricks-healthy-holiday-season

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.jnj.com%2Fhealth-and-wellness%2F9-tips-to-boost-your-oral-hygiene-routine&psig=AOvVaw22brc9C2tC7EiGe7iyPxU2&ust=1608911375165000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCIiyxov85u0CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fhuntortho.com%2Fabout-braces%2Fcomplete-care-guide-for-your-teeth-with-braces%2F&psig=AOvVaw2Prvmm0P1-xS9_WX1jfb18&ust=1608911442129000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCMDDxLb85u0CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAe

It has been a long journey through the COVID-19 pandemic likely for everyone. As the coronavirus deaths in the United States have reached over 300,000 individuals, it can be challenging at times to see a silver lining. But, we are all stronger together and must continue to do our part in helping to keep ourselves and others safe and healthy during these challenging times. Now, news of the first doses of an FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccine developed by Pfizer-BioNTech has been sent to all 50 states in the U.S., in addition to the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. The CEO of Pfizer reported that the company is aiming to make 1.3 billon COVID-19 vaccine doses across the world next year, and approximately 2.9 million doses of the vaccine will be received across the U.S. this week. As of right now the first doses of the vaccine are being distributed to health care workers due to the limited supply, and it may take months until the vaccine can be administered to the general public, according to CNN.

Sadly, the pandemic is not slowing down, with approximately 110,000 current COVID-19 hospitalizations reported in the U.S. on Monday, December 14^th, as reported by the Covid Tracking Project. According to CNN, Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, warned that even with the introduction of a vaccine, "I don't believe we're going to be able to throw the masks away and forget about physical separation in congregate settings for a while, probably likely until we get into the late fall and early next winter.” He also commented on the effectiveness of the vaccine, stating, "It's going to be gradual, and I think we will know when we see the level of infection in the country at a dramatically lower level than it is right now that we can start gradually tiptoeing towards normality."

The vaccine is currently authorized for emergency use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has authorized it to be given to people 16 and older. CNN also reports that Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine is also being reviewed and may be the next in line to be authorized for emergency use in the near future. According to the FDA, the most commonly reported side effects of the vaccine were pain at the injection site, tiredness, headache, muscle pain, chills, joint pain, and fever. Most individuals reported these side effects after the second dose than after the first dose, and stated that the effects lasted typically for several days.

Some individuals may be concerned about receiving the COVID-19 vaccination, but the CDC reassures that routine processes and procedures remain in place for the safety and efficacy of the vaccines. Read more about how the U.S. vaccine safety system is ensuring the safety of COVID-19 vaccines.

Check out these benefits of getting a COVID-19 vaccine per the CDC:

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.cnn.com/2020/12/14/health/us-coronavirus-monday/index.html

https://www.fda.gov/emergency-preparedness-and-response/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/pfizer-biontech-covid-19-vaccine

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/8-things.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/vaccine-benefits.html

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fvaccines%2Fcovid-19%2Findex.html&psig=AOvVaw1iwzWjGykyfWV5jQZRpZWN&ust=1608221526923000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCKC4vZzy0u0CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAJ

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thelocal.it%2F20201118%2Fhow-italy-is-preparing-for-a-covid-19-vaccine&psig=AOvVaw1iwzWjGykyfWV5jQZRpZWN&ust=1608221526923000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCKC4vZzy0u0CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAO

We've all had to adapt to a lot of changes in 2020, with masks being one of our daily life adjustments. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend everyone continue to wear masks to help lower the risk of spreading COVID-19, which has been found to be transmitted mainly through respiratory droplets from simply talking, coughing, sneezing, or even breathing. The use of masks is particularly important as COVID-19 can be spread from individuals who are not experiencing any symptoms but who are unknowingly infected with the virus. According to the CDC, not only do masks help prevent you from releasing respiratory droplets, but they also help reduce the risk of you inhaling  these droplets.The CDC reports that multi-layer cloth masks effectively block the exhalation of most large droplets (i.e., 20-30 microns and larger) in addition to up to 50-70% of aerosols smaller than 10 microns that are common when individuals speak.

Several studies have shown the benefits of communities universally wearing masks in helping to lower the spread of COVID-19, plus lowering the amount of mortality rates from the virus. As reported by the CDC, an economic analysis based on United States data revealed that increasing universal use of masks by 15% could prevent the need for lockdowns and lower associated losses of up to $1 trillion (approx. 5%) of gross domestic product. More research is actively being conducted to further explore the benefits of masks and determine filtering effectiveness for instance. The CDC states that they will update their recommendations as new scientific evidence becomes available.

According to the CDC, individuals aged two years and older should wear masks in public and when around people who don’t live in their household.​ In addition, individuals also should practice social distancing while wearing masks. In certain circumstances individuals should not wear a mask, including people who are younger than two years old, those with trouble breathing, and those who may have sensory, cognitive, or behavioral conditions for instance.

Be sure to wear your mask, for your safety and the safety of others! To follow social distancing guidelines and ensure safety, our office at WDG requires everyone entering the office to wear a mask. In addition, you can learn more about the increased safety and our latest equipment additions on our blog post: https://www.wellesleydentalgroup.com/blog/2020/05/whats-new-at-wdg-covid-19-safety-precautions

But, not all masks are created equally! Check out the types of masks that recommended vs. not recommended according to the CDC:

The CDC does not recommend using masks with exhalation valves/vents as respiratory droplets may exit the vents and contribute to the spread of COVID-19. Further research on these masks are ongoing.

The CDC also states that face shields or goggles should NOT substitute for masks and should not be placed on newborns or infants.

Experiencing skin trouble from wearing a mask? Take a look at these skin care recommendations on our blog: https://www.wellesleydentalgroup.com/blog/2020/07/the-latest-science-on-masks-plus-skincare-tips

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-guidance.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/more/masking-science-sars-cov2.html?for-guid=b9fa359a-5e8b-11ea-9855-1267072b3abf&utm_source=usatoday-Coronavirus%20Watch&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=baseline_greeting&utm_term=newsletter_greeting

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wsj.com%2Farticles%2Fhow-face-masks-work-and-which-types-offer-the-best-covid-19-protection-11595946178&psig=AOvVaw3HcChEzTkC5EHBw-Zs0xGZ&ust=1606666959581000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCLjKqYLTpe0CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAK

National Handwashing Awareness Week is coming up (each 2nd week of December), and clean hands have never mattered more! With the COVID-19 pandemic still impacting all of our daily lives, it is of utmost importance to have excellent hand hygiene to help slow the spread of coronavirus and other infectious diseases.

No matter what time of day it is or what activity you are doing, germs can be all around us at any time. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), having good hand hygiene is an important step in preventing getting sick and spreading germs to others. Germs are easily spread from other people or surfaces, for example when touching your face with unwashed hands, eating or preparing food with unwashed hands, touching unclean surfaces, or blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing into unwashed hands.

Each December, National Handwashing Awareness Week is the perfect time to remind us all how big of an impact hand washing can have on our health. We all know how important keeping your hands clean is, but what exactly are the risks connected with not washing our hands? The CDC reports that proper handwashing with soap and water can prevent 1 in 3 diarrheal illnesses and 1 in 5 respiratory infections, such as a cold or the flu.

Check out these facts and tips for proper handwashing:  

The CDC recommends washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (approximately the time it takes to sing the "Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice), or when unable, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol to clean your hands. Although hand sanitizers can help quickly lower the number of germs on hands, they do not eliminate all types of germs.

So, be sure to keep your hands clean for your health and the health of others!

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

References:

https://www.snapcomms.com/blog/national-hand-washing-awareness-week

https://www.nphic.org/nphichighlights/3811-newshighlight-2

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fpublichealthmaps.org%2Fcalendar%2F2020%2F12%2F7%2Fnational-handwashing-awareness-week&psig=AOvVaw01A9mphaql_005cSvgpOPR&ust=1606763146840000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCJD6ybm5qO0CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAQ

https://nationaltoday.com/national-handwashing-awareness-week/#:~:text=National%20Handwashing%20Awareness%20Week%20%E2%80%93%20December%201%2D7%2C%202020

https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/when-how-handwashing.html

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.teachhub.com%2Fclassroom-activities%2F2020%2F06%2Fprojects-for-teaching-kids-about-germs%2F&psig=AOvVaw3rLpSPT1MpSWJPjJ-pdzgQ&ust=1606774453919000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCNid1LzjqO0CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAJ

December 1st each year marks World AIDS Day, which was first observed in 1988. Every year, organizations and people across the globe spread awareness about HIV and AIDS to help increase the public's knowledge and counter HIV stigma. This year's theme is “Ending the HIV/AIDS Epidemic: Resilience and Impact."

So, what is HIV and AIDS? HIV, also known as human immunodeficiency virus, is a viral disease that attacks CD4 cells, which are a specific type of T cell that our immune system needs to help fight off infections and keep us healthy when we get sick. If HIV progresses untreated, the CD4 cell count can be so low that the disease can be progressed to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), where the immune system no longer fights infections and is in a life-threatening weakened state. HIV impacts over 1.2 million people in the United States alone, and can commonly be contracted through sexual contact or use of a contaminated needle or syringe. But, approximately 1 in 8 people in the United States are living with HIV but are unaware that they have the virus. This is one of the reasons why HIV testing and early diagnosis is extremely important. If you believe you have come into contact with HIV, it is important to get tested immediately. According to the  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), routine testing for HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases is recommended for anyone who is sexually active with a new partner or multiple partners.

Currently there is no exact cure for HIV, however, HIV can be effectively managed through antiretroviral therapy and continued monitoring of CD4 cell levels in the body for those who have living with HIV. If an individual is initially exposed to HIV, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) therapy should be started as soon as possible to potentially block HIV infection, and is typically recommended to be taken for up to 4 weeks.

Interestingly, HIV can have a significant impact on your oral health. In fact, your mouth may be the first part of your body to be affected with HIV. Individuals with HIV may be a greater risk for developing the following oral conditions:

• Dry mouth
• Oral thrush 

• White lesions on the sides of the tongue (oral hairy leukoplakia)

• Red band gingivitis

• Ulcerative periodontitis
• Karposi’s Sarcoma

• Outbreaks of herpes simplex virus

• Canker sores

• Mouth ulcers

Oral issues related to HIV can be painful and may contribute to trouble chewing or swallowing. Most mouth health problems related to HIV can be resolved and managed by your dental professional. It's important to visit your dentist for routine check-ups and continue practicing good oral hygiene. If taking HIV medicine, inform your health care professionals if you are experiencing dry mouth potentially from the medication or any other oral conditions related to HIV.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/hiv-aids-and-stds/dental-problems-associated-with-hiv-aids

https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/hiv-aids/more-info#:~:text=Some%20of%20the%20most%20common,tongue)%2C%20and%20dental%20caries.

https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/h/hiv-aids-and-dental-health

https://www.hiv.gov/events/awareness-days/world-aids-day

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ghorayeb.com%2Fkaposisarcoma.html&psig=AOvVaw1Jk_rUZh6xFadRdM8zWYkT&ust=1606916655969000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCLDpmZ31rO0CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fpocketdentistry.com%2Fhiv-infection-aids%2F&psig=AOvVaw0ApVmRpRCPMuHq_8z04Cv0&ust=1606916702827000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCOjGmrH1rO0CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAK

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.redmiresdentalcare.co.uk%2F2017%2F08%2Fshould-i-worry-about-mouth-ulcers%2F&psig=AOvVaw3r9FIjd3uQ44DlK3p1vhXx&ust=1606916774716000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCKC4oM_1rO0CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAJ

We’ve all had to make many sacrifices and adjust to a lot of change as we continue fighting through the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. Much like all of the other holidays this year, Thanksgiving will be celebrated uniquely. For many families, Thanksgiving is marked by being surrounded by family and friends with lots of tasty food. Thanksgiving gatherings often involve families and loved ones, including parents, grandparents, friends, children, and college students traveling long distances to come together, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that travel greatly increases the risk of contracting and spreading COVID-19. It’s undeniable that individuals are starting to feel “pandemic fatigue,” as several months have passed since the onset of COVID-19. But health professionals and experts are cautioning individuals to be mindful and not relax on safety practices when it comes to the holidays. Coronavirus is still steadily increasing, with more than 1 million COVID-19 cases reported in the United States over the last week, according to the CDC. According to the Washington Post, Michelle DallaPiazza, an infectious diseases specialist at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School stated, “There is a real danger in complacency, and we are seeing the effects of that play out in real time…Across the country, we have begun to see another increase in infections and deaths after a period of time with low transmission.”

Health experts are encouraging individuals to stay home to protect yourself and others. If you are considering traveling and/or gathering for Thanksgiving, it is important to understand the risks involved and follow safe preventative guidelines when celebrating:

Traveling Safety Precautions:

If you are considering traveling for Thanksgiving, the CDC recommends asking these questions before making your decision to travel. Keep these safety guidelines in mind when traveling:

If You Are Sick, Stay Home

If you are experiencing symptoms or do not feel well stay at home and do not gather with others.

Wash Your Hands Frequently

It’s important to regularly and thoroughly wash your hands. Hand washing should last at least 20 seconds. When unable to wash your hands with soap and water, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content.

Wear your Mask

Be sure to wear your mask, only removing when eating and drinking. Keep your mask over your nose and mouth and ensure that it is tightly secured under your chin and against the sides of your face.

Keep it Small

Do your best to only be around a limited amount of people. If possible, plan for gatherings that only include people who live in the same house. If attending another household, to make the celebration safer bring your own food, drinks, plates, cups, and utensils.

Social Distance

Maintain social distancing guidelines of staying at least 6 feet apart (about two arm lengths apart) from individuals who do not live in the same household as you.

Celebrate Virtually

Try a virtual Thanksgiving dinner via FaceTime, Zoom, Skype, WhatsApp, or other social media platforms with your loved ones. You can share screens and watch television, sports, or play fun games!

The CDC classifies holiday activities into the following categories:

We wish you all a safe and happy Thanksgiving!

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/holiday-coronavirus-family-gatherings/2020/10/30/3b938d48-14aa-11eb-bc10-40b25382f1be_story.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays/thanksgiving.html

https://www.bassettcreekdental.com/news/2020/11/planning-safe-thanksgiving

Have you noticed an increase in your stress levels lately? The COVID-19 pandemic has unexpectedly had an undeniable impact on our lives in many ways. With many lives lost, financial hardships, isolation, and continued uncertainty, health care professionals, especially dentists, are noticing an increase in stress-related health issues.

Many have had to adapt to different work, home, and school environments, become used to digital technology, and add new precautionary practices to daily life routines like wearing a mask and practicing social distancing. The American Psychological Association (APA) warns that over time, the negative mental health effects of the coronavirus pandemic can be serious and long-lasting.

Not much has changed in terms of practicing universal precautions for all patients of dental professionals, as these practices were implemented at the peak of the AIDS crisis in the 1980's. Due to these safe practices and use of personal protective equipment, epidemiologists and the American Dental Association (ADA) have reported that there are no cases of COVID-19 outbreaks associated to any dental offices in the United States!

According to the ADA Health Policy Institute's COVID-19 impact poll to dentists in the United States, dentists are seeing an increase in stress-related oral health conditions in patients since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. Approximately 59.4% of the participating dentists reported increases in the prevalence of tooth grinding (bruxism), 53.4% chipped and cracked teeth, and 53.4% temporomandibular disorder symptoms among their patients. Plus, approximately 26.4% documented an increase in tooth decay (caries), and 29.7% reported an increase in periodontal disease. As of the week of Sept. 21, greater than 99% of dental offices in the United States were open according to the American Dental Association (ADA).

The overall health and safety of patients remains our #1 priority. It’s important to acknowledge any stress you may feel, know how to cope with stress, and where to turn for help if needed so that you can continue to care for yourself and remain healthy. Along with practicing social distancing, wearing face masks, and frequent hand-washing, it is equally important to manage stress and anxiety during these challenging times. Prolonged stress and anxiety can play a significant role on the health of your overall body, including increasing heart rate and blood pressure, issues with digestion, teeth grinding, headaches, trouble sleeping, mental health disturbances, and inability to focus, just to name a few issues.

Take a look at some tips to stay mentally and physically healthy during these troubling times:

Stay in the loop with current events:

Stay up to date with research and reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) on COVID-19 statistics and prevention resources. Being in-the-know can help keep you and your loved ones calm and prepared.

Take breaks:

Although it’s important to be aware of what’s going on globally, allow yourself some time to disconnect from too much negative news and social media. It is also necessary to get adequate rest.

Stay physically active:

A great way to reduce stress is to increase your physical activity. While following safety precautions, take walks, jog, bike ride, meditate, or do the activities that normally make you happy! It is also important to eat well and make sure that you are getting proper nutrition and fluids to keep your body and immune system healthy.

Avoid negative habits:

Sometimes stress can lead to negative coping behavioral habits such as use of alcohol and tobacco.  If you or a loved one are struggling with alcoholism, know that this is not a fight that has to be done alone. For help with alcohol addiction, please check out these resources with 24/7 availability. For individuals struggling with tobacco use, the Massachusetts Tobacco Cessation and Prevention Program offers information and resources that can help individuals quit. Also, check out a list of resources and other helpful information on our WDG blog here.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.dentistryiq.com/covid-19/article/14184297/dentist-takes-holistic-approach-with-patients-who-grind-teeth-due-to-covidrelated-stress?utm_source=DEC_DIQ+Morning+Briefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=CPS201002009&o_eid=3760I9143045C2X&rdx.ident%5Bpull%5D=omeda%7C3760I9143045C2X&oly_enc_id=3760I9143045C2X

https://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2020-archive/september/hpi-poll-dentists-see-increase-in-patients-stress-related-oral-health-conditions

https://success.ada.org/en/practice-management/dental-practice-success/dps-summer-2020/strategies-for-dealing-with-stress-during-the-pandemic

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myannapolisdentist.com%2F2020%2F03%2F25%2Fcovid-19-and-maintaining-oral-health%2F&psig=AOvVaw15O7NhSbT2tavg0RhOC8y5&ust=1606148746593000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCMCrosXIlu0CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAQ

You’ve come in for your routine checkup and your hygienist has suggested that you apply fluoride to your teeth. You know that fluoride is in some toothpastes, so you may wonder why do you need extra? In today’s post we will tackle the myths about fluoride:

What is fluoride?

Fluoride is a mineral found in your food and water. This mineral is lost when acid from the plaque on your teeth performs a process called demineralization. If too much demineralization occurs, this results in a weakened tooth structure.  When this happens, the tooth has a higher chance of developing a cavity.

Myth #1

Fluoride should not be in drinking water

Truth: Fluoride is found naturally in almost all water supplies.  Even though it is found naturally in water, this is not enough to protect our teeth. It is recommended that your water’s fluoride  levels be at 0.7 parts per million of water to be the most effective.

Myth #2

Fluoride is a medication

Truth: Fluoride is not medicine. It is a mineral. When proper amounts are consumed, decay is less rampant and teeth are healthier and stronger.

Myth #3

Fluoride causes cancer

Fact: There is no scientific evidence to prove this. In fact, The National Cancer Institute has performed decades of studies that debunk this. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) states that fluoridation is one of the top 10 public health achievements within the last 20 years.

Myth #4

Fluoride is not good for young children

Fact: When children drink fluoridated water, the enamel of their teeth becomes strengthened at an early age.

Myth #5

Fluoride can damage my teeth

Fact: This is partially true. While decay is much more damaging, high levels of fluoride can cause a condition called fluorosis. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), fluorosis is the appearance of faint, white lines on teeth in children who have consumed too much fluoride. In most cases, the appearance is mild.  After the age of 8, the chances of fluorosis decreases.  For children younger 3, it is recommended that parents brush their teeth with toothpaste equivalent to the size of a grain of rice. For children 3-6, a parent should use a pea sized amount.

Types of Fluoride

Topical Fluoride: aids in the remineralization of teeth and stops bacteria from growing. This reduces the amount of plaque on teeth.

• Toothpaste: is the most commonly used self-applied fluoride. When used, the fluoride concentration in your saliva increases 100-1000 fold. However this is short term as the fluoride baseline returns to normal in 1-2 hours. Most over the counter toothpastes have a concentration of 1,000-1,500 ppm.

• Mouth rinses or gels are to be used daily or weekly. These are meant to be rinsed out of the mouth. Use in children under the age of 6 is not recommended. These mouth washes have 230 ppm of fluoride.

• Fluoride varnish is applied professionally by a health care professional. This allows for high concentrations of fluoride to come in contact with teeth for several hours. It is recommended that fluoride is applied twice a year for the best benefits. According to the CDC, there is no evidence that professionally applied fluoride leads to fluorosis in children under the age of 6.

Systemic Fluoride: fluoride that is consumed

• Water fluoridation is the most inexpensive way to receive fluoride to prevent tooth decay. Studies have shown that it is effective in reducing tooth decay in children and adults by up to 20-40%.
• Dietary fluoride can be prescribed for children who are 6 months and older that are high risk for tooth decay. Tablets or lozenges are prescribed in the concentrations of 0.25, 0.5, or 1.0 mg. These are meant to be sucked on for 1-2 minutes before swallowing. The following guidelines are recommended by the ADA. All prescriptions should follow this guideline.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/f/fluorosis

https://www.ada.org/en/science-research/ada-seal-of-acceptance/ada-seal-products?source=promospots&medium=button&content=adasealproducts

https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/fluoride-topical-and-systemic-supplements

https://www.colgateprofessional.com/hygienists/articles/debunking-fluoride-myths-how-to-educate-patients-about-its-benef

https://cdn-prod.medicalnewstoday.com/content/images/articles/154/154164/fluoride-in-dental-products.jpg

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.medicalnewstoday.com%2Farticles%2F154164&psig=AOvVaw2NJejBfB1Ydoy65OFZ2CyZ&ust=1605729126520000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCNCLw6Wtiu0CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

As the days pass, we can probably all say that we are counting the days until the world beats COVID-19. This global pandemic has created many obstacles and sadly has taken the lives of many. We remain united together and will continue doing our part to stop the spread of coronavirus. A lot of information and evidence based research continues to be gathered regarding the virus as time goes on, and it's important to stay abreast of all of the new findings to keep everyone safe and protected. As reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), anyone exposed to COVID-19 can experience mild to severe symptoms. In particular, researchers have found that older individuals and individuals who have severe underlying medical conditions, such as heart or lung disease or diabetes, are at an increased risk for developing more serious complications from the virus.

So what exactly are the documented symptoms of COVID-19? Well, a wide range of symptoms have been reported, which typically have been found to appear approximately 2-14 days after exposure to coronavirus. Check out some of the more common symptoms reported by the CDC:

According to a study published in the journal Abdominal Radiology conducted by the University of Alberta faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, approximately 1 in 5 patients (20%) with COVID-19 may only show gastrointestinal symptoms. These symptoms can include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and appetite loss. The article analyzed 36 studies conducted on COVID-19 symptoms starting in July 2020. Plus, the researchers found potential signs that radiologists should look for while conducting abdominal radiographs that could be evidence of COVID-19 infection. They noted signs of inflammation of the small and large intestines, air within the wall of the intestines (pneumatosis) and perforation (pneumoperitoneum). However, researchers reported that these symptoms are rare. Mitch Wilson, a radiologist and clinical lecturer in the University of Alberta's Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, explained, "Seeing these things is not necessarily telling us a patient has COVID-19," said Wilson. "It could be from a variety of potential causes. But one of those potential causes is infection from the virus, and in an environment where COVID-19 is very prevalent, it's something to consider and potentially raise as a possibility to the referring physician."

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://decisionsindentistry.com/2020/11/one-in-five-covid-19-patients-presents-only-with-gastrointestinal-symptoms/?inf_contact_key=45820791642b1ab6a6e4dcf7c731f3a0d18a532c4142cb79caf2b269de1401fa

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/11/201103104734.htm

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.elitecme.com%2Fresource-center%2Fcovid-19%2Fcovid-19-digestive-issues-and-common-symptoms&psig=AOvVaw1XjnenYq5fifIjEfELuYra&ust=1605048878955000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCJi8kJfH9uwCFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

Have you been experiencing a sore throat that just doesn’t seem to go away? Do you find yourself removing a hard, white stone from your mouth and you can’t figure out why they keep appearing? If so, you may have something going on with your tonsils.

Tonsils are the lymph nodes found at either side of the back of the throat. Their job is to keep your body fluids balanced. The tonsils are covered with a pink lining with small pits in them called crypts. These crypts can collect mucous, food and other debris. This can lead to feeling like something is stuck in your throat, sore throat, and bad breath. This can also lead to tonsil stones which are foul smelling clumps in the mouth. The tonsils are also made up of white blood cells that help fight off infections. They are a part of mucous-associated lymph tissue (MALT) which creates a response when infectious agents are detected in the body. They communicate with the B and T cells of the immune system. The B cells make antibodies IgA that helps to protect you. T cells kill any invaders that enter your body. Essentially, your tonsils are your body’s first line of defense against bacteria and viruses. Despite, these unique qualities, the tonsils can become infected. This is known as tonsillitis. Symptoms of tonsillitis include:

• Sore throat
• Red and enlarged tonsils
• Trouble swallowing
• White or yellow film on tonsils
• Swollen lymph nodes in neck
• Fever
• Bad breath

Take a look at the different types of tonsils:

• Palatine tonsils- these are the most commonly known tonsils. They are found in the back of the mouth on either side of the throat.
• Lingual tonsils- are at the back of the tongue. They contain lymph nodes and immunocytes. The immunocytes cause the immune system to wake up if they are hit with infectious agents.
• Adenoids- are found in the throat, behind the nose. If these become enlarged they can cause the stoppage of airflow.
• Tubal tonsils-are found in the roof of the nasopharynx at the opening of the middle ear tube. They contain lymph nodes.

Your tonsils are checked during your comprehensive or periodic dental exam. The palatine tonsils are examined for size and color. The following grading system is used during the evaluation:

• Stage 0- tonsils have been removed
• Stage 1- normal size and no inflammation present
• Stage 2- tonsils extend behind the pillars
• Stage 3-tonsils are swollen and easily seen beyond the pillars
• Stage 4- tonsils extend to the midline of the mouth. This is the worst stage of tonsil sizing

The tonsils are a concern because if they are enlarged they can lead to sleep apnea and breathing issues. During sleep apnea a person starts and stops breathing while asleep. Removing enlarged tonsils can improve quality of sleep, reduces the risk of sleep apnea, and improve breathing.

Tonsil stones are created when the crypts within the tonsils have debris that has calcified. Tonsil stones can be the cause of bad breath. To prevent them, you should brush your teeth at least twice a day. This removes bits of food and bacteria before they have a chance to reach the tonsils. If you do experience tonsil stones, it is recommended that you rinse with mouthwash to kill the bacteria in the mouth as well as freshen your breath.

If you are experiencing enlarged tonsils or tonsil stones feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://teachmeanatomy.info/neck/misc/tonsils-and-adenoids/

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/bad-breath/tonsil-stones-and-bad-breath

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sleep-apnea/symptoms-causes/syc-20377631

https://teachmeanatomy.info/neck/misc/tonsils-and-adenoids/

https://medlineplus.gov/tonsillitis.html

https://www.todaysrdh.com/tonsils-close-scrutiny-can-pinpoint-disease-and-raise-oral-health-awareness/

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.insider.com%2Fhow-to-get-rid-of-a-sore-throat&psig=AOvVaw1FmbL49tpuCG5j5OgrnjAj&ust=1604589684182000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCJDg-ceY6ewCFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

For those who celebrate, we want to wish you a spook-tacular Halloween! As Halloween this year approaches during the COVID-19 global pandemic, we all may be wondering how to celebrate the occasion safely. Although Halloween, like many other occasions, will be celebrated differently this year as we fight through the COVID-19 global pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released guidelines to help protect us all and celebrate the occasion safely.

Here's some fun, and maybe scary, dental facts that you may not have known. Take a look:

What is the hardest substance in the human body?
It's your tooth enamel, which is stronger than bone! It's important to take care of your tooth enamel, because once it's gone your body can not regenerate it.

Over the course of your lifetime, how much will you have brushed your teeth?
On average, an American will have spent approximately 38.5 days brushing their teeth over their lifetime. Don't forget, flossing is important too!

What are scary Halloween candies for your teeth?
Sour and sticky candies can linger on teeth and break down your tooth enamel due to the acidic content. When consuming candy, it is best to do so during meals when your mouth is producing a lot of saliva, which will help wash away the sugars and bacteria.

How much sugar and calories are in a typical Halloween stash?
The average Halloween candy bag collected by children has approximately between 3,500 and 7,000 calories. Plus, an article published in Fortune reported that children consume approximately three cups of sugar in 7,000 calories of candy, which is about 675 grams of sugar, or the same as eating about 169 standard sugar cubes!

What's the deal with soda?

Soda can be damaging to your tooth enamel and overall health. Did you know, there are 10-12 teaspoons of sugar in one can of soda! It has been found that individuals who drink 3 or more glasses of soda each day have 62% more cavities, dental fillings and tooth loss than individuals who do not. It is best to drink fluoridated water to help keep your pearly whites strong and healthy.

Is my tongue unique?

Yes, everyone's tongue print is different just like fingerprints. It's important not to forget about your tongue when brushing, as bacterial plaque can buildup on the tongue and even contribute to bad breath.

How often do people brush for?

The average American only brushes for about 45 to 70 seconds a day, however, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommended toothbrushing amount is for 2 minutes twice a day.

Typically during this time we are gearing up for our Annual Candy Drive. However, this year we have decided to cancel our 13th Annual Candy Drive, as our utmost priority as healthcare professionals is to keep our community safe and healthy, and we want to minimize any risk of transmission of COVID-19. But, we haven't let that damper our spirit of giving! We have created a new tradition this year, launching our Healthcare Heroes Appreciation Drive. We would love for you to participate by sharing your appreciation for healthcare professionals via cards or letters which can be dropped off or mailed to  to the Wellesley Dental Group office (5 Seaward Road, Wellesley 02481) by Monday, November 9th.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.businessinsider.com/halloween-candy-consumption-usa-facts-statistics-2019-10#studies-show-that-kids-can-consume-up-to-three-cups-of-sugar-eating-halloween-candy-this-equals-almost-169-sugar-cubes-3

https://fi.pinterest.com/pin/501799583465517820/

http://www.etobicokedental.ca/blog/halloween-dental-quiz.html

https://www.childrensdentalvillage.net/patient/resources/interesting-facts/

http://madinsurance.com.au/the-dangers-of-sugary-drinks.html

Hand, foot and mouth disease is a viral infection caused by coxsackievirus. This viral infection is common in children and infants who are younger than 5 years old. Once exposed, it takes 3 to 6 days for symptoms to appear. This time period is known as the incubation period. Sign and symptoms can include: fever, sore throat, and a runny nose.

As the virus progresses, mouth sores may appear on the tongue, gums, and inside the cheeks one to two days after the onset of the fever. The sores are small and red and can be painful. A rash on the hands can follow one to two days later. The rash may be accompanied with blisters. The fluid in the blisters may contain the virus so it is recommended to avoid touching blisters and scabs, and to keep them clean.

Hand foot and mouth disease is very contagious. It can be spread by nose and throat secretions, respiratory droplets, fluid from blisters formed, and feces. Those who have the illness are most contagious during the first week of infection. To prevent the spreading of the virus, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends:

• Washing your for at least 20 seconds as well as teaching children how to wash their hands
• Clean and disinfect toys, items, and surfaces that are touched often
• Avoid touching your mouth, nose and eyes; this will lessen the chance of getting the virus
• Avoid contact with those who are sick

While this disease may sound concerning, symptoms usually go away within 7 to 10 days. Some at home remedies can be used to provide relief. This includes:

• drinking cold beverages such as ice water
• avoiding acidic foods and drinks
• avoiding spicy foods
• eating soft foods that are easy to chew
• rinsing with warm salt water

If you see anything that causes concern in the mouths of your little ones, feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.cdc.gov/hand-foot-mouth/about/signs-symptoms.html

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hand-foot-and-mouth-disease/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353041

https://www.healthline.com/health/hand-foot-mouth-disease#treatments

https://kidspluspgh.com/doctors-notes/hand-foot-and-mouth-disease/

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/infections/Pages/Hand-Foot-and-Mouth-Disease.aspx

https://www.homeo-cure.com/homeopathy-treatment-on-hand-foot-and-mouth-disease/

https://www.facebook.com/Biocair/photos/hand-foot-and-mouth-disease-or-hfmd-has-definitely-been-making-its-rounds-here-i/2102506673316284/

Each October people from all across the world show their support for individuals impacted by breast cancer, as October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The recognizable vibrant shades of pink and pink ribbons represent spreading awareness about breast cancer and the risks, prevention, detection and diagnosis, and treatment of this deadly disease. Approximately 1 in 8 women (about 12%) in the United States will develop invasive breast cancer. But, breast cancer does not only affect women, it can affect men, too. Approximately 2,620 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in men in 2020. About 1 in 883 men will develop breast cancer during their life.

Breast cancer is typically recognized by a tumor seen on an x-ray or felt as a lump, which can be present in different parts of the breast. However, some breast cancers can be present without the common symptom of a lump or mass. According to the American Cancer Society, other possible symptoms of breast cancer can include:

• Swelling of all or part of a breast (even if no lump is felt)
• Skin dimpling (sometimes looking like an orange peel)
• Breast or nipple pain
• Nipple retraction (turning inward)
• Nipple or breast skin that is red, dry, flaking or thickened
• Nipple discharge (other than breast milk)
• Swollen lymph nodes (Sometimes a breast cancer can spread to lymph nodes under the arm or around the collar bone and cause a lump or swelling there, even before the original tumor in the breast is large enough to be felt.)

If you experience any of these symptoms it is important to bring it to the attention of a health care professional so the cause can be found. Also, regular mammograms and screening tests for early detection are important, particularly with increasing age. Early detection and diagnosis is key to having a greater chance of successful treatment, and increase the chances of catching breast cancer before potentially spreading into the blood or lymph system to other areas of the body.

Currently there is no solution to preventing breast cancer, however, certain actions have been found to lower the risk including maintaining a healthy body weight, staying physically active, and limiting or avoiding alcohol consumption. In addition, gum disease has been found by several studies to be linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. For instance, one study published in the journal of Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology, found that individuals who had periodontitis (severe form of gum disease), were 2-3 times more likely to develop breast cancer. In addition, cancer treatments can impact the oral tissues and result in many oral health complications, which is why dental care is extremely important for individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment. Take a look:

Throughout October, numerous events to bring awareness about breast cancer occur across the globe. Many events sponsored by the American Cancer Society aim to increase breast cancer research to help support finding effective treatments and a cure. Although the activities look somewhat different this year as we battle through the COVID-19 pandemic, the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer movement is continuing to fundraise and unite survivors, caregivers and supporters.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://secure.acsevents.org/site/SPageServer?pagename=strides_learn

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/about/what-is-breast-cancer.html

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/about/breast-cancer-signs-and-symptoms.html

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/treatment.html

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/risk-and-prevention/can-i-lower-my-risk.html

https://www.unitedconcordia.com/dental-insurance/dental-health/conditions/breast-cancer/breast-cancer-oral-health/

https://decisionsindentistry.com/article/oral-health-maintenance-for-patients-with-breast-cancer/

https://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/understand_bc/statistics

https://addisonmagazine.com/2020/10/breast-cancer-awareness-month-3/

https://www.dentalhealth.org/news/breast-cancer-risk-up-to-three-times-higher-in-women-with-gum-disease

Chewing gum, it’s used to freshen breath but is it good for you? The average American consumes 1.8 pounds of it a year. We’ve heard the age-old tale that candy is bad for your teeth. Well, there is good news when it comes to gum. Using sugar free chewing gum can help to prevent tooth decay, cause the production of more saliva, and ultimately help to strengthen teeth.

The Oral Health Foundation recommends sugar free gum in between meals when brushing is not possible. When you eat, acid is made by the bacteria in your mouth and the sugar in your food and drinks. The acid created dissolves your tooth enamel, creating a cavity. When sugar free gum is chewed, saliva is created. This washes away the acid and reduces the chance of developing tooth decay. The increased saliva can also help clear away acid in the esophagus as well as reduce the effects of dry mouth.

Chewing sugar free gum can help to increase pH within the mouth after eating. This is important because pH drops each time that you consume food or drinks. The critical pH that causes enamel to dissolve is 5.5. Sugar free gum helps to buffer the lowering of pH after eating.

Sugar free gum contains less than 0.5 grams of sugar per serving. Sweeteners such as aspartame, sucrose, or stevia and sugar alcohols such as xylitol, mannitol, and sorbitol are used in place of sugar. These sweeteners have less calories than sugar. Out of all of these sweeteners, xylitol has been proven to be the most effective in preventing cavities. Studies have shown that chewing gum that contains xylitol has a long- and short-term effect of reducing the production of plaque and bacteria that causes tooth decay. Bacteria cannot feed off of xylitol which reduces their amount within the oral cavity.

So, you may be wondering, which gum to chew? When choosing gum, look for the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval. The following have been evaluated and have met the ADA’s criteria for safety and efficiency.

Bazooka Sugar Free Bubble Gum:

Eclipse Sugar Free Gum:

Ice Breakers Ice Cubes Sugar Free Chewing Gum:

Orbit Sugar Free Gum:

Trident Sugar free Gum:

Yes, sugar free gum can be beneficial, but that does not mean that it can replace brushing and flossing. The ADA recommends brushing twice a day and flossing at least once a day.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/chewing-gum

https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/c/chewing-gum

https://oralb.com/en-us/oral-health/life-stages/adults/effects-chewing-gum-on-teeth/

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/basics/nutrition-and-oral-health/gum-that-is-good-for-your-teeth-too-good-to-be-true-0213

https://www.dentalhealth.org/sugar-free-chewing-gum?_ga=2.254167688.10820751.1600308545-1646793870.1600308545

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4232036/

As pumpkin spice, reddish-orange leaves, and cool air highlight the season of fall, we also prepare for spooky Halloween festivities. Although Halloween will be celebrated differently this year as we all do our part to stop the spread of COVID-19, that doesn’t need to put a damper on your spirit! Check out these helpful tricks for how to safely celebrate Halloween this year.

We also need to be cautious about the sweet treats that deliciously mark this annual occasion. Unfortunately, the sweet treats can be a not-so-sweet trick to the health of your teeth! This is the perfect time to continue to reinforce good dental hygiene habits as the sugary candies begin to pile up. Here are a few tips on how to help keep minimize your risk of developing dental cavities (tooth decay):

• Choose healthier treats: 

If you plan to give out goodie bags with treats this year, try to avoid purchasing candies that are sour, which can be highly acidic and tend to break down tooth enamel, as well as sticky candies like caramel, gummy worms, or jelly beans that stick to the surfaces of teeth for long amounts of time. It is also best to avoid hard candies that can potentially lead to tooth enamel fracture or choking hazards for young children. Instead, opt for healthier tooth-friendly treats such as granola bars or dark chocolate, for instance.

• Sort through any candy received:

Along with frequent hand-washing and disinfecting received items, it is important to check that there are no dangerous items within your child’s Halloween stash. This is also a great opportunity to explain to your child which candies are best to avoid as mentioned above, and encourage healthier options.

• Create a plan ahead of time:

Come up with a plan for Halloween to discuss with your family, including information about the importance of oral health and how their diet can impact the health of their teeth. Although it might be your child’s priority to collect large amounts of candy to consume during Halloween, their teeth will be what bears the consequence. It may be good to set a specific time when the Halloween treats can be eaten to help monitor how much and how frequently the sugar is being consumed. Remember, having things in moderation is key! An interesting point to note is that the frequency of consuming sugary foods and beverages matters. Each time you consume fermentable carbohydrates, the pH in your mouth drops as oral bacteria turn the sugar to acid, and thus makes the oral environment more acidic. If the pH drops below the critical pH of dental enamel (pH=5.5), this will lead to demineralization and the breakdown of the tooth enamel. So, be sure to let your child know that the amount of sugar and the frequency of sugar intake plays a role on the health of your teeth.

After satisfying your sweet tooth with Halloween treats, be sure to brush and floss.

Not to mention, every year around Halloween, WDG passionately gears up for our annual Candy Drive, which gets bigger and better each year all thanks to our lovely community! This year, out of an abundance of caution, we have decided to cancel the 13th Annual Candy Drive. Our utmost priority as healthcare professionals is to keep our community safe and healthy, and we want to minimize any risk of transmission of COVID-19. But, the celebration and spirit of giving will not stop, as we have launched our Healthcare Heroes Appreciation Drive. Check here for details and see how you can get involved.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://amp.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/cavities/how-to-prevent-cavities-from-halloween-candy-1013

https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/5-tricks-for-dealing-with-halloween-treats#1

https://www.nymetroparents.com/columnpic2/halloween-themed-recipes-for-kids.jpg?clear=1

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.quora.com%2FWhat-is-the-Stephan-curve-in-dentistry&psig=AOvVaw16rt8napAYukKoiATxapbZ&ust=1602817587209000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCLj37vrOtewCFQAAAAAdAAAAABAK

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sandytoesandpopsicles.com%2Fcelebrate%2Fhalloween%2Fparty-ideas-appetizers-dinner-desserts-printable-spookysnacks%2F&psig=AOvVaw28XEIEOrV1Da_ibHLAamUl&ust=1602817849822000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCNihifzPtewCFQAAAAAdAAAAABAN

Every year as fall fills the air and leaves begin to change, we all start preparing to celebrate a spooky Halloween, where we all can dress up and have fun being whoever we want to be! As Halloween this year approaches during the COVID-19 global pandemic, we all may be wondering how to celebrate the occasion safely. Halloween this year will look a lot different than in the past as we all try to do our part in slowing the spread of coronavirus. But don't let that bring your spirits down, there are still plenty of ways families can celebrate and have fun without being spooked by spreading or being exposed to the virus.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released guidelines to help protect us all during these uncertain times:

The CDC notes that If you are packaging goodie bags to give away, be sure to wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 second before and after preparing the goodie bags. They also warn that a Halloween costume mask should not be a substitute for a cloth mask, unless it is made of two or more layers of breathable fabric that covers the mouth and nose, leaving no gaps around the face. If planning to participate in outdoor Halloween activities, be sure to wear your face mask, practice social distancing, and frequently wash your hands with hand sanitizer and soap and water. Any place with large groups of individuals, whether outside or inside, should be avoided to help stop the spread of COVID-19. Most importantly, If you believe you have COVID-19 ,or have been in contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19, you should not participate in in-person Halloween activities or disperse any goods to the public.

As you may know, every year around Halloween, WDG passionately gears up for our annual Candy Drive, which gets bigger and better each year all thanks to our lovely community! This year, out of an abundance of caution, we have decided to cancel the 13th Annual Candy Drive. Our utmost priority as healthcare professionals is to keep our community safe and healthy, and we want to minimize any risk of transmission of COVID-19. But, the celebration and spirit of giving will not stop, as we have launched our Healthcare Heroes Appreciation Drive. Check here for details and see how you can get involved.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.nymetroparents.com/columnpic2/halloween-themed-recipes-for-kids.jpg?clear=1

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays.html#halloween

https://cdn.abcotvs.com/dip/images/6423711_091520-ktrk-halloween-covid-img.jpg?w=1600

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/COVID-19/Pages/Halloween-COVID-Safety-Tips.aspx

Dear friends & community members,

This year, out of an abundance of caution, we have decided to cancel the 13th Annual Candy Drive. Our utmost priority as healthcare professionals is to keep our community safe and healthy, and we want to minimize any risk of transmission of COVID-19.

Instead, this year, we plan to continue the spirit of giving back and bringing our community together by launching our Healthcare Heroes Appreciation Drive. 

This new initiative is a drive to collect handmade “kindness cards” & letters for our local healthcare workers. Our goal is to have every student write a letter or make a card to show our appreciation and gratitude for all the sacrifices our healthcare workers have made over the last several months.

To amplify the impact of this drive, Wellesley Dental Group will donate 25 cents for each letter or card to the Massachusetts Nurses Association (MNA), who will use the donation to purchase PPE for their frontline workers. 

How you can get involved:

1. Encourage your students to share their appreciation via a card or letter
2. Drop off the letters / cards (completely contactless) or mail them to the Wellesley Dental Group office by Monday, November 9th. Our office address is: 5 Seaward Road, Wellesley 02481
3. Help us spread the word to increase our impact!

As always, we look forward to partnering with you all to make a difference. While it may look a little different this year, we’re excited to continue our tradition of community giving.  

All my best,  

Femina Ali, DMD

781-237-9071

femina@wellesleydentalgroup.com

October marks National Dental Hygiene Month, which was initiated by the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) and Wrigley dating back to 2009. Even as we all battle through a global pandemic, the dental hygiene community remains grounded together and are remaining resilient as essential health care providers. As reported by the ADHA, their organization is the largest national organization, representing over 185,000 registered dental hygienists (RDHs) across the United States. Dental hygienists are a subgroup of oral health professionals, who help support you and you’re your smile through providing educational and preventative clinical care. This national observance focuses on promoting the importance of keeping your mouth, teeth and gums healthy, and best of all is a celebration of all of the fabulous work dental hygienists perform!

This year the ADHA is collaborating with Colgate® Oral Pharmaceuticals, Inc. to celebrate the perseverance of dental hygienists throughout challenging times such as now. In this year’s theme, the ADHA is encouraging dental hygienists to “show your face of courage,” by submitting a photo on their website that shows how you handle your day at work, or even at home.

As you may know, making an investment in your oral health can go a long way in helping maintain your overall health. There are so many important reasons for making dental health a priority, as what’s in your mouth can reveal a lot about what’s going on in the rest of your body. Not only can taking care of your teeth improve common conditions like bad breath, cavities, and gum disease, it can also help discourage the development or worsening of certain medical conditions like diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and a plethora of other health issues. These discoveries continue to get stronger with increasing research on the connection between oral health and systemic diseases.

So, it's fair to say that the mouth is a very special place, with many biological systems working at play. For instance, saliva is one of the body’s main defense mechanisms against bacteria and viruses that enter the mouth. Saliva is rich in specific proteins that can help weaken potentially harmful invaders. Certain conditions like dry mouth can lead to an increased risk for developing cavities, as the decreased amount of saliva can add to this phenomenon. But, saliva doesn’t totally kill all of the invaders, which is why practicing oral health is particularly important to control the bacteria within your mouth from causing harm. Taking it easy on brushing and flossing can lead to a buildup of dental plaque, which bacteria thrive on and consequently produce acids that can break down your tooth enamel. This can also lead to an infection within the gums, known as gingivitis, which can progress to periodontal disease if untreated. Unfortunately, periodontal disease can lead to irreversible changes within the mouth, including bone loss and ultimately tooth loss. Plus, bacteria from the mouth can spark inflammation not only within the mouth, but also in other parts of your body through travel through the bloodstream, as shown in many research studies.

So, how can you maintain good oral health? To celebrate this month in style, be sure to:

Floss Every Day

Flossing can be easy to forget, but should be part of your daily routine! Brushing cannot remove all of the left over food particles and dental plaque within the spaces between your teeth, which is where floss comes to the rescue. This is particularly important as many cavities develop in those hard-to-reach areas as bacteria become comfortable in the crevices.

Brush Twice a Day for Two Minutes

Brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes is a key component of oral hygiene. But, there’s also a technique to it. Brushing effectively involves tilting your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle, which is angled toward the gum-line. Gently move your toothbrush in a back and forth motion, making sure the bristles are slightly underneath your gum-line (a spot where bacteria love to hide). Be careful not to brush aggressively, as this can lead to gum recession and cause other dental issues. Be sure not to miss a spot, and don’t leave your tongue out of the equation. Bacteria and food reside on your tongue and need to be brushed away. Removing the odor-causing bacteria can also help freshen your breath. This can be done using a toothbrush or a tongue scraper.

Rinse with Mouthwash

Rinsing with mouthwash can help reinforce the hard work you put into flossing and brushing. It helps rinse away any remaining particles and can have additional oral health perks included in the ingredients. Aim for purchasing an anti-microbial mouth rinse with fluoride in the composition, which can help promote tooth remineralization and lower the risk of developing tooth decay. Aim to make rinsing with mouthwash a regular occurrence after you brush and floss. Plus, mouthwash can hep tackle bad breath.

It’s also necessary to make your regular check-up appointments with your dentist and to avoid postponing treatment to help keep your pearly whites healthy.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://nationaltoday.com/national-dental-hygiene-month/

https://www.colgateprofessional.com/education/patient-education/topics/systemic/why-a-healthy-mouth-is-good-for-your-body#:~:text=Good%20oral%20and%20dental%20hygiene,you%20ward%20off%20medical%20disorders.

https://www.adha.org/national-dental-hygiene-month

https://denverhighlandsdentist.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Dental_Hygiene_9437.jpg

https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5952880320099e4af548b918/5a1f677cf9619aaae97f4388/5d89a532358ba566026565f6/1569891699719/1-OCT_NationalDentalHygieneMonth_2019-09-24.JPG?format=1500w

World Heart Day 2020 is here, and has a particularly impactful significance during these uncertain times. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to influence our current daily lives, heart health is important now more than ever as we all try to stay healthy and safe. Individuals with heart disease are at an increased of developing severe infection from COVID-19. Every year September 29th marks World Heart Day, which aims to spread awareness about heart disease and stroke prevention. The #1 cause of death in the world is cardiovascular disease (CVD). It results in the deaths of approximately 17.1 million people every year. Some of the most common causes of the disease include smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity, just to name a few.

This year’s message is to:

This powerful campaign reminds us to strive for living longer and healthier lives. The organization notes that using your heart is also about using your head to learn more about how to take care of your heart, using your influence to make positive behavioral choices to set good examples for loved ones, and acting in ways that support those who are vulnerable in society especially during this pandemic. In addition, the campaign encourages the government to implement policies to help improve heart health, as well as encouraging healthcare professionals and organizations to help individuals make positive health changes.

The positive thing is that heart problems can be prevented! Heart health is an extremely important topic as obesity, unhealthy diets, and decreased physical activity are becoming increasingly common in society. Treating our hearts better can include improving our diets, avoiding tobacco use, limiting alcohol intake, increasing our daily exercise, and making sure to attend your regular medical check-ups. It is necessary to routinely have your cholesterol, blood pressure, and heart examined to ensure that you are healthy.

It is also necessary for us to mention the important heart-mouth connection. Both heart disease and oral disease, like gum disease have been linked in many research studies. Moderate to severe gum disease has been associated with a greater risk for developing heart disease than when compared to someone with healthy gums. Since the mouth is the window to the rest of the body, oral bacteria and other germs from your mouth can travel through the bloodstream into other part of your body and cause damage to important organs like the heart. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily, along with having a well-balanced diet and regular dental check-ups will not only go a long way for your oral health, but also for your overall health. According to the America Heart Association (AHA), other cardiovascular conditions such as atherosclerosis (or clogged arteries) and stroke have also been linked to inflammation due to oral bacteria.

According to the American Association of Periodontology (AAP), some signs of gum disease include:

• Red, swollen and sore gums
• Bleeding gums when you eat, brush or floss.
• Visible pus or other signs of infection around the gums and teeth.
• Gum recession
• Frequent bad breath/bad taste in the mouth
• Loose teeth

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.world-heart-federation.org/world-heart-day/world-heart-day-2020/

https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/heart-day/

https://www.fdiworlddental.org/news/20160929/fdi-celebrates-world-heart-day

https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/h/heart-disease-and-oral-health

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/heart-disease/how-oral-health-and-heart-disease-are-connected-0115

https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/sites/default/files/styles/16x9_crop/public/2020-01/NWRD%202019_edit.jpg?itok=Xy9SdP4M

Believe it or not, bacteria found normally in your mouth may be involved with gut diseases and digestion issues. Digestive tract diseases, such as Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can be a real pain! The most common types of IBD include ulcerative colitis and Chron’s disease, which both involve chronic inflammation, and sometimes even painful sores (ulcers). Some common signs and symptoms of both ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease include severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, fatigue and weight loss. As these conditions take a toll on the digestive tract, it can be easy to forget that the mouth is a part of this system, too! Your dentist may even be the first to notice common oral signs of these gastrointestinal diseases that could lead to early diagnosis, such as cobblestoning of the oral mucosa, canker sores (aphthous ulcers), pyostomatitis vegetans, inflammation at the corners of the mouth (angular cheilitis), redness around the mouth, and inflammation of the tongue (glossitis), just to name a few! Here are some common oral conditions that may manifest as a result of Chron's disease and ulcerative colitis:

Several research studies in the past investigating the guts of individuals diagnosed with IBD have found an overgrowth of common oral bacteria present in the gastrointestinal tracts of studied participants. Now, a recent study at the University of Michigan School of Medicine and School of Dentistry has also uncovered further discoveries on the topic, and suggests that poor oral health may make IBD symptoms more severe. Researchers are warning that neglecting your oral health may lead to trouble beyond tooth decay- extending to other systemic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and potentially IBD. According to the study, IBD affects an estimated 3 million adults in the United States, and may be the latest condition made worse by poor oral health.

The study, published in the journal Cell, investigated mice and showed two pathways that involved oral bacteria appearing to exacerbate gut inflammation. In the first pathway, researchers looked at the gut microbes in mice with inflamed colons and periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease. They found that periodontitis led to an increase in oral bacteria, which were also found to be present within the guts of the mice by traveling through the digestive tract. They believe that the disease-causing oral bacteria may aggravate gut inflammation by disrupting the normal healthy gut bacteria. They also observed that these mice were found to have both greater weight loss and disease activity.

The second pathway involved the initiation of T cells (a main component of the immune system). The researchers believe that the inflammation resulting from periodontal disease triggers T cells, which can travel from the mouth to the gut where they may aggravate inflammation and prompt an immune response within the gut. Co-author Dr. William Giannobile, Professor of dentistry and chair of the department of periodontics and oral medicine at the U-M School of Dentistry, mentioned, "This exacerbation of gut inflammation driven by oral organisms that migrate to the gut has important ramifications in emphasizing to patients the critical need to promote oral health as a part of total body health and wellbeing,"

More research is necessary to determine the association between IBD and oral health, and exciting new research may provide more clues to how monitoring oral inflammation relates to improving systemic diseases like IBD. Practicing proper oral hygiene and attending regular dental visits to keep your oral care and inflammation under control is extremely important for keeping the rest of your body healthy!

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/06/200616113927.htm

https://labblog.uofmhealth.org/lab-report/could-cure-for-ibd-be-inside-your-mouth

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/inflammatory-bowel-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20353315

https://images.everydayhealth.com/images/digestive-health/crohns-disease/crohns-management-tips-for-seniors-1440x810.jpg?sfvrsn=2cf1348e_0

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4851452/#:~:text=Among%20the%20main%20oral%20manifestations,%2C%20perioral%20erythema%2C%20and%20glossitis.

https://decisionsindentistry.com/article/oral-manifestations-crohns-disease/

https://www.cell.com/cell/fulltext/S0092-8674(20)30681-4

https://image.slidesharecdn.com/oralpathology-en-lecture-6-170820102334/95/oral-pathology-enlecture6-31-638.jpg?cb=1503224626

Among the teen and young adult crowd, you may have been hearing about the recently popular app named TikTok. TikTok is a social media outlet that allows individuals to create and share short videos with the world. Many videos often are watched by thousands of people across the globe. But, as with all social media, there are certain potential dangers and exposure to harmful trends that can impact people, especially when targeted toward younger populations.

Dangerous trends even impact the dental world, particularly most recently on TikTok as people have showcased themselves filing their teeth down using nail files to make them look aligned. This dangerous trend has caught the attention of dentists and health professionals across the world, who are warning about the harm this can cause.

The outer surface of your tooth is composed of tooth enamel, which helps to keep your teeth strong to allow you to chew and enjoy your daily meals. Tooth enamel also adds a layer of protection around the sensitive inner layers of teeth, including the dentin, pulp, and blood vessels/nerves from the acids and bacterial plaque when exposed to foods. What’s really important to note is that once your enamel is destroyed, your body cannot replace or regenerate new tooth enamel, so it’s important to help make it last a lifetime! Individuals who are filing down their teeth are consequently causing irreversible damage, and increasing their risk of increased sensitivity and pain, tooth fracture, infection, and other dental issues that could develop later on. Filing your teeth can even change the way your teeth fit together (your bite/occlusion). Not to mention, you may add the need the for extensive (and expensive!) additional treatment to help repair the damage caused from this trend, including dental crowns or fillings for instance.

If you are concerned about the esthetics of your teeth, it is important to get evaluated by a dental professional who will help properly examine, diagnose, and recommend treatment options to help make sure that your smile is healthy and beautiful.

Unfortunately, another detrimental trend impacting oral health on TikTok has also made headlines, which involved individuals advertising dangerous methods to whiten teeth. Some TikTok users recommended applying 3% hydrogen peroxide to whiten their teeth using cotton swabs as a cheaper alternative to professional whitening procedures. The trend increased as over 15 million viewers watched the original video. However, dental professionals once again warned about this extremely harmful trend, which can cause irreversible damage. Waterpik spokesperson and dentist, Chris Strandburg, mentioned, “Prolonged bleaching with these high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide, especially when used multiple days in a row, can lead to highly irritated gums and sensitive teeth… significant bleaching can increase tooth sensitivity permanently with long term use.” Tooth whitening without the supervision of a professional dentist can lead to severe damage to your gums and tooth enamel. It is important to be careful in reviewing recommendations on social media. If you’re interested in brightening your smile, there are safe and effective whitening options available for in-office applications, along with at-home products supplied by dental professionals, and over-the-counter whiteners, which are approved by the American Dental Association (ADA).  Here at WDG we offer in-office teeth whitening with Philips Zoom, which is safe, simple, pain-free, and one of the fastest ways to improve the beauty of your smile.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://metro.co.uk/2020/09/17/dentists-warn-against-filing-teeth-nail-files-tiktok-13285959/

https://www.miamiherald.com/news/nation-world/national/article245815230.html

https://www.health.com/condition/oral-health/tiktok-teeth-bleaching

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-8714305/Leading-dentists-warn-extremely-harmful-TikTok-beauty-trend-cause-teeth-fall-out.html

https://www.pronamel.us/tooth-enamel/what-is-tooth-enamel/

https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/whitening

https://miro.medium.com/max/2400/0*_3_ShXoafikbzetC.jpg

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that infants be breastfed exclusively for the first 6 months of their life in order to promote healthy growth and development. As defined, exclusive breastfeeding is no other food, drink or water except breastmilk. From a dental standpoint, breastfeeding reduces the chances of baby bottle tooth decay. Studies have also shown that exclusive breastfeeding reduced the likelihood of teeth alignment issues such as open bite, crossbite, and overbite.

An open bite is where the teeth do not align properly when the jaws are closed. Causes of open bite include thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, and skeletal problems.

Open Bite:

A crossbite has two classifications: Posterior and anterior crossbite. A posterior crossbite involves the lower back teeth fitting over the teeth in the upper jaw.

Posterior Crossbite:

An anterior crossbite involves the bottom front teeth fitting over the teeth in the upper jaw.

Anterior Crossbite:

An overbite involves the teeth in the upper jaw overlapping the teeth of the lower jaw. This is commonly known as “buck teeth”.

Overbite:

What  does research say happens if you breastfeed past 6 months?

A study by Pediatrics showed that prolonged breastfeeding increased the risk of cavities (tooth decay) in children. The research showed that children who were breastfed 24 months or longer were 2.4 more times likely to have severe cavities. Now does this mean that you should stop breastfeeding after 6 months? No! The study did not take into account the oral health habits of the children, frequency of breastfeeding, and the additional foods added to the baby’s diet once exclusive breastfeeding is no longer done. More recently, the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition determined that there was no association between breastfeeding beyond the age of one and cavities. The factors that did lead to increased risk of cavities involved high sugar intake and socioeconomic status.

What are some causes of tooth decay?

• Frequency of sugar

limiting the consumption of foods and drinks that have a high contact of sugar is important to reducing the risk of cavities.

• Bacteria in the mouth

Streptococcus mutans bacteria, is the main source of cavities. This agent can be passed from caretakers to children through sharing of utensils and kissing.

• Poor oral hygiene

Ways to protect from decay

• Your child’s first dental visit should be around their first birthday
• Teeth or gums should be cleaned twice a day. This can be done by wiping them with a wet washcloth
• Once other foods have been introduced into the diet, offer water as this will wash away lingering sugar
• Make sure that your child goes to sleep with a clean mouth- this means no juice or sugar filled foods before bedtime
• Avoid putting your child’s toys, cups, utensils in your mouth to reduce the spread of bacteria from your mouth to theirs

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.speareducation.com/spear-review/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/frank1_22.png

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/26/Crossbite.jpg

https://www.ozident.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/screenshot-2014-03-05-19-19-32.png

https://www.ozident.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/screenshot-2014-03-05-19-19-32.png

https://thenewageparents.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/buck-teeth-in-children-what-to-do.jpg

https://www.healthline.com/health/open-bite

https://www.healthline.com/health/crossbite#definition

https://www.healthline.com/health/buck-teeth

https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn%3AANd9GcT6NpB7mBH33ta2U478E4PmwEnqp_mMlxzYKg&usqp=CAU

https://thoroughdentsmiles.com/2020/03/25/breastfeeding-and-dental-health/

We have all been impacted in some way by the COVID-19 pandemic, which makes us all in this fight together. Even though the virus still persists, great strides and global participation in social distancing, wearing face coverings, and following safety protocols are helping to stop the spread of the coronavirus. Scientists and researchers across the world are continuously uncovering important research and highlighting factors that increase the risk of battling coronavirus. From the beginning of the pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has emphasized, based on research and clinical expertise, that individuals with weakened immune systems, including older adults, and those with underlying medical conditions (examples: lung disease, heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, and hypertension, just to name a few) are at an increased risk of severe COVID-19 illness. More recently a new study, published in the Journal of Adolescent Health and conducted by researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine, suggests teens and young adults who vape or smoke cigarettes are at an increased risk of COVID-19 infection.

Along with the COVID-19 pandemic (currently 29,182,627 worldwide cases and a disheartening 928,281 deaths reported), the devastating health crisis in many young adults: tobacco and electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes)/vaping product use, has still been an extensive public health issue across the nation. Back on September 24, 2019, the Governor of Massachusetts, Charles D. Baker, declared e-cigarette use a public health emergency following the significant link between e-cigarette products and severe lung disease leading to many deaths across the United States. Unfortunately, e-cigarettes have routinely been marketed as “safer” alternatives to cigarette smoking, although in reality they carry many of the same risks as well as new risks. The inhaled liquids are often composed of nicotine, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabinoid (CBD) oils, along with other substances. Each product, however, can have a variation of other ingredients and concentrations, which may be toxic to the body.

The study, entitled, Association Between Youth Smoking, Electronic Cigarette Use, and Coronavirus Disease 2019, consisted of an online survey conducted in May completed by 4,351 individuals across the United States ranging in age from 13 to 24 years old. The study participants were asked if they had ever used vaping products or cigarettes, and if they had vaped or smoked in the past 30 days. The participants were then divided between those who used nicotine products in comparison to those who reported never using nicotine products. The groups were asked if they had experienced COVID-19 symptoms, received a test for COVID-19, or tested positive for the virus. Taking into consideration reported medical conditions and sociodemographic factors, the researchers found that individuals who used both cigarettes and e-cigarettes in the last 30 days were approximately 5 times more likely to experience COVID-19 symptoms than those who never used nicotine products. Of the individuals who received a COVID test, those who had used e-cigarettes were 5 times more likely to be diagnosed with COVID-19 than those who never vaped. Plus, individuals who used both e-cigarettes and regular cigarettes within the last 30 days were approximately 7 times more likely to test positive for COVID-19. The study authors believe that the link between nicotine products and lung damage is thought to be the reason behind the resulting increased risk of coronavirus infection. "This study tells us pretty clearly that youth who are using vapes or are dual-using are at elevated risk, and it's not just a small increase in risk, it's a big one," Dr. Shivani Mathur Gaiha, one of the study's authors, warned.

Knowing the dangers about vaping and cigarette smoking is key. The Massachusetts Tobacco Cessation and Prevention Program offers information and resources that can help individuals quit. Also, check out a list of resources and other helpful information on our WDG blog here.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://decisionsindentistry.com/2020/08/vaping-raise-risk-covid-among-teenagers-young-adults/

http://med.stanford.edu/news/all-news/2020/08/vaping-linked-to-covid-19-risk-in-teens-and-young-adults.html

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20200811/Smoking-and-vaping-significantly-increase-risk-of-COVID-19-in-teens-and-young-adults.aspx

https://www.tecc.org/tobacco-and-covid-19/

https://discoveries.childrenshospital.org/vaping-and-covid-19/

Ever heard of a ceiling light that could kill microorganisms and viral infections like COVID-19? Researchers and scientists are looking heavily into the idea with germicidal ultraviolet (GUV or UV-C) lights. Hospitals and large health corporations commonly use ultraviolet (UV) light devices for sterilization, and it has proven in many circumstances to be a safe and effective non-chemical method to kill germs. More recently, some hospitals are even using UV light to sterilize used N95 masks to avoid personal protective equipment (PPE) shortages. Plus, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) in New York City is now using UV light to help sterilize surfaces on public transportation.

Now, according to the National Public Radio (NPR), some restaurants and medical offices, including ours, are utilizing UV light in the ceiling to eradicate potentially harmful airborne particles. As stated by NPR, there are already numerous research studies out that have shown UV-C light to safely and effectively stop airborne microbes from spreading diseases including measles, tuberculosis and SARS-CoV-1, a coronavirus disease that is genetically similar to COVID-19. UV-C light works by using its high energy to obstruct microbial DNA by blocking their ability to reproduce and infect the environment. It is our top priority to keep our patients and staff safe and healthy, and our caring team at WDG is doing everything that we can to always be here for you and your family.

UV light is particularly becoming a topic of interest as the number of coronavirus cases continues to rise across the United States, which researchers know primarily spread through microscopic aerosol particles which may linger in the air for long periods of time. As new research continues to be conducted, the use of UV light may even become more widespread in other indoor places such as schools and local stores.

David Sliney, a faculty member at Johns Hopkins University who has also studied germicidal UV light commented, “Although it’s not perfect, it probably offers the best solution for direct air disinfection.” However, more research needs to be done regarding UV light and its effect on fighting COVID-19. Many researchers believe this is a step in the right direction, along with following current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines including wearing face coverings, social distancing, and frequent hand washing and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces.

Did you know, at WDG we have also introduced these UV devices at ground-level to protect our patients and staff:

UV-SANITIZING HEPA AIR PURIFIERS and STERILIZING UV LAMPS

H13 HEPA air purifiers have been installed in the reception area and hallways. These purifiers have been tested to eliminate over 99.97% of airborne pollutants. Additionally, these purifiers have the built-in germicidal UV system that sanitizes the air of microorganisms including viruses and mold. In complement to our heightened airflow management and filtration systems, we have also installed UV lamps that sterilize the environment.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2020/07/13/890387205/coronavirus-sparks-new-interest-in-using-ultraviolet-light-to-disinfect-indoor-a

https://ultraviolet.com/what-is-germicidal-ultraviolet/

https://www.6sqft.com/mta-launches-uv-light-pilot-program-to-kill-covid-19-on-nyc-subways-and-buses/

Can you believe we're approaching Labor Day already? Labor Day honors the work and achievements of U.S. workers and typically marks the closing of summer for many as we get ready to approach the fall. Normally, Labor Day weekend is full of social parties and celebrations across America, but experts warn that this Labor Day should look differently during the COVID-19 pandemic. Unfortunately, although the holiday may be a vacation for us, COVID-19 is still rising and not taking any days off!

Sadly, after gatherings during Memorial Day, the cases of COVID-19 drastically increased, with 4 million more cumulative cases since the holiday. As of today, in the United States there are currently 6,432,209 cases of COVID-19 and 192,864 deaths reported. According to CNN, a model cited by leading health experts predicts over 400,000 Americans could die by January 1st 2021. Dr. Anthony Fauci, Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, explains, “If we’re careless about it, then we could wind up with a surge following Labor Day...It really depends on how we behave as a country.”

It is important to remember that the pandemic is not over, and not to let up on safety precautions, especially during this holiday weekend! Beth Blauer, an executive director at Johns Hopkins University Centers for Civic Impact, who has been tracking U.S. COVID-19 transmission data at the Coronavirus Resource Center, warns, "We're seeing a lot of evidence that transmission is happening in smaller, family-driven parties." Even small gatherings can consequently lead to greater spread, which can be deadly for some. CNN reports that a wedding and reception in Maine on August 7th was found to have infected 144 people within the past month. Of the 144 infected individuals, 56 of the cases were from individuals who were at the wedding and reception, however, after interactions with people who attended the gathering the virus also spread 100 miles to a nursing home and 220 miles to a county jail. Sadly, two individuals have passed away following the spread from the event.

So, what does this mean for your day off? Health experts say that the pandemic does not have to stop all of your Labor Day fun. However, to avoid a surge in cases, there are actions to take to lower the risk of COVID-19 infection and spread to help make the holiday weekend safer for everyone, according to epidemiologist and professor of health metrics sciences at the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington, Ali Mokdad:

• Getting outside, hiking, bike rides, and other outdoor activities in non-crowded areas is preferred over indoor activities
• Wear masks at all times when not eating, continue to practice social distancing, and keep your hands and frequently touched surfaces disinfected
• Keep the family units separated by at least 6 feet or more
• Make sure tables, food, condiments, eating utensils and trash containers are also separated
• Have each family bring their own food, avoid food sharing. If food is shared, separate into small containers in advance to be distributed
• Communicate safety protocols to all guests if hosting an event

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

References:

https://www.cnn.com/2020/09/02/health/labor-day-covid-19-precautions-wellness/index.html

https://www.cnn.com/2020/09/06/health/us-coronavirus-sunday/index.html

https://www.cnn.com/2020/09/04/health/labor-day-coronavirus-safety-wellness/index.html

https://nypost.com/2020/09/04/fauci-warns-7-states-need-to-be-covid-19-cautious-over-labor-day-weekend/

https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/labor-day-1

https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/country/us/

https://www.gannett-cdn.com/presto/2020/09/03/USAT/b47f8c50-52ae-43ec-9483-84992a0fc2c0-Labor-Day.png?width=580&height=326&fit=bounds&auto=webp

https://www.mytwintiers.com/news-cat/local/chemung-county-health-department-advising-a-covid-free-labor-day-weekend/

Scientists and researchers across the globe are in full-force battle mode when it comes to finding out more information about COVID-19 to help beat the virus. Although COVID-19 has brought about many challenges, losses, and uncertainties, it has brought so many individuals and an abundance of knowledge from across the world together, even if simply virtually! This constantly evolving pandemic has helped fuel important research, all sharing a common goal of finding connections and solutions to bringing this outbreak to a close. In the United Kingdom, researchers have explored the potential connection between oral health and COVID-19. The study, “Could There Be a Link Between Oral Hygiene and the Severity of SARS-Cov-2 Infections?,” published in the British Dental Journal, aimed to determine whether health complications and deaths as a result of COVID-19 were linked to oral bacteria and periodontal disease (gum disease). Also, they hoped to learn more about whether or not the amount of bacteria present in the mouth plays a role in the severity of COVID-19, as well as how improving oral health could possibly lower the risk of individuals experiencing detrimental COVID-19 complications. As many researchers have found, COVID-19 seems to impact individuals in differing ways in terms of symptoms and severity of the disease. Some of the common severe complications of coronavirus include pneumonia, heart problems, blood clots, organ failure, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and acute kidney injury.

In a healthy mouth, the presence of oral bacteria is natural and exists in harmony with the rest of your body. However, when the bacterial balance becomes out of control, harmful bacteria can not only create problems for your teeth and gums, but also for other parts of your body such as your lungs. The study highlighted several research studies that suggest that bacterial infections were common in individuals with severe COVID-19 symptoms. For instance, a study by Zheng and colleagues found that 50% of patients within their conducted study with severe COVID-19 who passed away also had the presence of a secondary bacterial infection. In addition, a study by Liu and colleagues found similar results, revealing that over 80% of the severe cases of COVID-19 in their study had significantly high bacterial loads as a result of a bacterial superinfection.

The study authors note that tiny droplets of saliva containing oral bacteria that are linked to gum disease, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis), Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum) and Prevotella intermedia (P. intermedia), can contaminate other areas of your body, for instance the lungs. This can create an inflammatory response throughout the body and increase the risk of many developing other infections and complications. Thus, good oral hygiene practices and management of gum disease has been widely studied and associated with a reduction in the risk of respiratory infections. Not to mention, properly managing gum disease also plays a role in lowering the risks and complications associated with other systemic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

The authors of the study suggest that taking care of your oral health could particularly go a long way in lowering your risk of developing severe complications from COVID-19. The authors concluded, “We recommend that oral hygiene be maintained, if not improved, during a SARS-CoV-2 infection in order to reduce the bacterial load in the mouth and the potential risk of a bacterial superinfection. We recommend that poor oral hygiene be considered a risk to post-viral complications, particularly in patients already predisposed to altered biofilms due to diabetes, hypertension or cardiovascular disease. Bacteria present in patients with severe COVID-19 are associated with the oral cavity and improved oral hygiene may play a part in reducing the risk of complications.” More research is needed to determine if there is a concrete connection between oral bacteria and COVID-19 complications, as well as the link between gum disease and the virus.

So, don’t forget that your mouth is connected to your entire body, which means keeping up with your overall health goes hand in hand with also maintaining your oral health! Continue to stay safe and healthy.

This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.

Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.

References:

https://decisionsindentistry.com/2020/08/paper-explores-connection-between-oral-hygiene-severity-covid/?inf_contact_key=de1345513d0cf654b8e4b4892fabc16109c74070ac2bf3cfa7869e3cfd4ff832

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7319209/#!po=12.5000

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7258848/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/symptoms-causes/syc-20479963#:~:text=%2D%20Pneumonia%20and%20trouble%20breathing,%2D%20Acute%20kidney%20injury.

https://www.vaildentistry.com/blog/whats-living-in-your-mouthand-whats-it-doing-to-your-heart/

https://hickorydentist.com/caring-for-your-oral-health-while-preventing-covid-19/

https://decisionsindentistry.com/covid-19/