For many, onions are a must-add ingredient to enhance your meal. For all of the onion lovers, whether in a salad, pasta, or sandwich, the flavor of an onion can take your food to the next level! They’re loaded with healthy antioxidants, fiber, prebiotics, and vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B, C, and potassium. Not to mention, they possess anti-bacterial properties. But, recently, you may have been told to dispose of your onions, as news reports of a salmonella outbreak from onions has reached more than 640 people across 43 states in the U.S. Salmonella is a bacteria, commonly associated with contaminated food, which typically cause symptoms of diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), salmonella could cause severe illness leading to hospitalizations or even death in individuals with weakened immune systems, most commonly impacting children under the age of 5 and elderly individuals over the age of 65. The CDC reports that this recent outbreak has resulted in approximately 85 hospitalizations.

The onion recall was initially issued on August 1st by Thomson International Inc., located in Bakersfield, California, reporting the recall for Red, Yellow, White, and Sweet Yellow Onions distributed from May 1, 2020-present. According to the company, these onions were transported to wholesalers, restaurants, and retail stores in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Canada. Posted on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website, the company announced, “Consumers who have any Red, Yellow, White, and Sweet Yellow Onions under the above brand names, or who cannot tell if their onions are from Thomson International, should immediately discard these products and disinfect any surfaces that came into contact with the onions.” The onions were sold under several brand names, including Kroger, Thomson  Premium, Tender Loving Care, and others listed on the FDA’s website.

On August 10^th, the FDA released an expansion of the initial recall. The company Progressive Produce LLC recalled red onions sold in Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah stores at Trader Joe’s, in addition to yellow onions at Ralph’s in California stores.

The CDC states these guidelines if you suspect that you are experiencing symptoms of a Salmonella infection:

The CDC also states, “Several companies have recalled onions and foods made with recalled onions, such as chicken salad, macaroni salad, fajita stir-fry, pizza, sub sandwiches, diced raw onions and peppers, and other salads. Check your homes for these recalled products and throw them away. Do not eat them or try to cook the onions or other food to make it safe.”

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/2020/08/08/health/onions-salmonella-outbreak/index.html

https://www.foodnetwork.com/healthyeats/news/food-recall-onions-safe-to-eat

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/onion-benefits#section7

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/thomson-international-complete-list-recalled-products

https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/index.html

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/thomson-international-inc-conducts-voluntary-recall-red-yellow-white-and-sweet-yellow-onions-because

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/progressive-produce-voluntarily-recalls-red-and-yellow-onions-because-possible-health-risk?utm_campaign=Progressive%20Produce%20Voluntarily%20Recalls%20Red%20and%20Yellow%20Onions%20Because%20of%20Possible%20Health%20Risk&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua

https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2020/s0807-investigation-update-salmonella.html

https://gwillimdalefarms.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/onions-1024x683.jpeg

During these uncertain times we are all trying to be cautious about germs, which seem to be all around us! Staying safe and doing the best we can to avoid spreading and contracting COVID-19 is of extreme importance as cases and deaths continue to rise across the United States. Because our daily lives involve the constant sense of touch, it's necessary to keep our hands clean to help lower the number of germs present that could make us sick. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has created several guidelines to follow regarding the use of soap and water, as well as alcohol-based hand sanitizer. According to the CDC, soap and water are more effective at fighting certain microbes and viruses, including norovirus, Cryptosporidium, and Clostridioides difficile. Whereas, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer can help lower the presence of some microorganisms in particular situations. Take a look:

Yet, you may have seen through the media that recently there have been a number of recalls for certain hand sanitizer brands. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has drastically increased its list of hand sanitizers to avoid due to potentially dangerous ingredients. Back in June, the FDA reported the toxicity of some hand sanitizers due to the presence of methanol. Methanol is toxic to humans and can lead to dangerous complications, including permanent blindness, seizures, coma, and even death.

More recently, the FDA is concerned about the inadequate amounts of ethyl or isopropyl alcohol in hand sanitizers. Now, their list, which has hit over 100 products, contains both those with potentially toxic ingredients and those with insufficient levels of active ingredients like alcohol. The FDA reports that many of the hand sanitizers that are a part of their list of products to avoid were created in Mexico and imported to the United States. Recalls and importation warnings have been issued to prevent these potentially dangerous hand sanitizers from making it to the store shelves. The FDA advises against using any products from the manufacturers listed, even if only specific products are being recalled, and to avoid any product with the ingredient methanol. Also, be sure to monitor hand sanitizer use around young children to ensure that ingestion of product does not occur.

FDA Commissioner Dr. Stephen Hahn noted, "Consumers must also be vigilant about which hand sanitizers they use, and for their health and safety we urge consumers to immediately stop using all hand sanitizers on the FDA's list of dangerous hand sanitizer products." Here is the most current list of hand sanitizers to avoid per the FDA:

• Blumen Clear Advanced Hand Sanitizer with 70% Alcohol
• Blumen Advanced Instant Hand Sanitizer Clear Ethyl Alcohol 70%
• BLUMEN Advanced Instant Hand Sanitizer Clear
• BLUMEN Advanced Instant Hand Sanitizer Clear
• KLAR AND DANVER Instant Hand Sanitizer
• MODESA Instant Hand Sanitizer Moisturizers and Vitamin E
• BLUMEN Advanced Hand Sanitizer
• BLUMEN Advanced Hand Sanitizer
• BLUMEN Advanced Hand Sanitizer Aloe
• BLUMEN Advanced Instant Hand Sanitizer Lavender
• BLUMEN Clear Advanced Hand Sanitizer
• BLUMEN Clear Advanced Hand Sanitizer
• BLUMEN Clear LEAR Advanced Hand Sanitizer
• BLUMEN Clear LEAR Advanced Hand Sanitizer
• The Honeykeeper Hand Sanitizer
• BLUMEN Advanced Hand Sanitizer Clear
• BLUMEN Clear Advanced Instant Hand Sanitizer
• BLUMEN Clear Advanced Instant Hand Sanitizer Aloe
• BLUMEN Clear Advanced Instant Hand Sanitizer Lavender
• BLUMEN Aloe Advanced Hand Sanitizer, with 70 Alcohol
• BLUMEN Aloe Advanced Hand Sanitizer, with 70 Alcohol
• Blumen Advanced Hand Sanitizer Lavender, with 70% alcohol
• Blumen Advanced Hand Sanitizer Aloe, with 70% alcohol
• Blumen Antibacterial Fresh Citrus Hand Sanitizer
• Blumen Hand Sanitizer Fresh Citrus
• KLAR and DANVER Instant Hand Sanitizer
• Hello Kitty Hand Sanitizer
• Assured Instant Hand Sanitizer (Vitamin E and Aloe)
• Assured Instant Hand Sanitizer (Aloe and Moisturizers)
• Assured Instant Hand Sanitizer Vitamin E and Aloe
• Assured Instant Hand Sanitizer Aloe and Moisturizers
• BLUMEN Instant Hand Sanitizer Fragrance Free
• BLUMEN Instant Hand Sanitizer Aloe Vera
• Assured Aloe
• bio aaa Advance Hand Sanitizer
• LumiSkin Advance Hand Sanitizer 4 oz
• LumiSkin Advance Hand Sanitizer 16 oz
• QualitaMed Hand Sanitizer
• NEXT Hand Sanitizer
• Clear Advanced Hand Sanitizer with 70% Alcohol extra soft with glycerin and aloe
• NuuxSan Instant Antibacterial Hand Sanitizer
• NuuxSan Instant Hand Sanitizer
• Assured Instant Antiseptic Hand Sanitizer with Aloe and Moisturizers
• Assured Instant Antiseptic Hand Sanitizer with Vitamin E and Aloe
• Modesa Instant Antiseptic Hand Sanitizer with Moisturizers and Aloe Vera
• Modesa Instant Antiseptic Hand Sanitizer with Moisturizers and Vitamin E
• Herbacil Antiseptic Hand Sanitizer 70% Alcohol
• Herbacil Antiseptic Hand Sanitizer 70% Alcohol
• Herbacil Antiseptic Hand Sanitizer 70% Alcohol
• Earths Amenities Instant Unscented Hand Sanitizer with Aloe Vera Advanced
• Hand Sanitizer Agavespa Skincare
• Vidanos Easy Cleaning Rentals Hand Sanitizer Agavespa Skincare
• All-Clean Hand Sanitizer
• Esk Biochem Hand Sanitizer
• Lavar 70 Gel Hand Sanitizer
• The Good Gel Antibacterial Gel Hand Sanitizer
• CleanCare NoGerm Advanced Hand Sanitizer 80% Alcohol
• CleanCare NoGerm Advanced Hand Sanitizer 75% Alcohol
• CleanCare NoGerm Advanced Hand Sanitizer 80% Alcohol
• Saniderm Advanced Hand Sanitizer
• Hand sanitizer Gel Unscented 70% Alcohol
• Medicare Alcohol Antiseptic Topical Solution
• GelBact Hand Sanitizer
• Hand Sanitizer
• TriCleanz
• Sayab Antisepctic Hand Sanitizer 100
• Jaloma Antiseptic Hand Sanitizer Ethyl Alcohol 62% with Vitamin E
• Leiper's Fork Distillery Bulk Disinfectant per 5 gallon and Leiper's Fork Distillery 16 oz bottle
• Andy's Best
• Andy's
• NeoNatural
• Plus Advanced
• Optimus Instant Hand Sanitizer
• Optimus Lubricants Instant Hand Sanitizer
• Optimus Instant Hand Sanitizer
• Selecto Hand Sanitizer
• Shine and Clean Hand Sanitizer
• Hand Sanitizer Disinfectant Gel 70% Ethyl Alcohol
• Hand Sanitizer Disinfectant Gel 70% Ethyl Alcohol Rinse Free Hand Rub
• Mystic Shield Protection hand sanitizer
• Born Basic. Anti-Bac Hand Sanitizer 70% alcohol
• Born Basic. Anti-Bac Hand Sanitizer 65% Alcohol
• Scent Theory -- Keep It Clean -- Pure Clean Anti-bacterial Hand Sanitizer
• Cavalry
• ENLIVEN Hand Sanitizing Gel
• Lux Eoi Hand Sanitizing Gel
• Scent Theory -- Keep It Clean -- Pure Clean Anti-bacterial Hand Sanitizer
• Bersih Hand Sanitizer Gel Fragrance Free
• Bersih Antiseptic Alcohol 70% Topical Solution hand sanitizer
• Purity Advanced Hand Sanitizer
• Hand Sanitizer Gel Alcohol 70%
• TriCleanz Tritanium Labs Hand Sanitizer
• Britz Hand Sanitizer Ethyl Alcohol 70%
• Parabola Hand Sanitizer
• Urbane Bath and Body Hand Sanitizer
• Cleaner Hand Sanitizer Rinse Free 70%
• Handzer Hand Sanitizer Rinse Free
• Kleanz Antibacterial Hand Sanitizer Advanced
• Be Safe Hand Sanitizer
• Wave Hand Sanitizer Gel
• DAESI Hand Sanitizer

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/interactive/2020/07/us/cnn-fda-hand-sanitizer-quiz-july-15-2020-trnd/

https://www.cnn.com/2020/08/03/health/fda-hand-sanitizers-list-expands-trnd/index.html

https://www.cnn.com/2020/07/27/health/fda-list-hand-sanitizers-trnd/index.html

https://i0.wp.com/post.healthline.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Hand_Sanitizer_1296x728-header.jpg?w=1155&h=1528

https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/hand-sanitizer-use.html

https://www.cdc.gov/handhygiene/campaign/provider-infographic-4.html

At all times our caring team at WDG is putting your safety first. Although the world’s “new normal” might not be clear, we are fully prepared and equipped to keep you and your family safe when visiting with us. Since reopening, we have invested in several additional safety equipment, in addition to updating our protocols and training our staff to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Our office has introduced one of the more recent ground-breaking methods to remove airborne microbes: UVC sterilization technology.

What is UVC sterilization technology?

You might have heard about Ultraviolet (UV) light technology trending recently through the media. It's a hot topic, particularly because of its microbial disinfection benefits. UV light is a part of electromagnetic light, which is not visible to our eyes, that consists of wavelengths ranging from 100-400 nm. The UV spectrum is split into 3 parts including, UVA (long-wave: 315 to 400 nm), UVB (medium-wave: 280 to 315 nm), and UVC (short-wave: 100 to 280 nm)

Hospitals and large health corporations commonly use UV light devices for sterilization purposes with much success, both in terms of safety and efficiency. These devices may also prove to be a huge benefit for dental practices during this global pandemic.

As reported by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), UVC sterilization technology devices use UVC light to compete against microorganisms (also referred to as being germicidal). This high energy short UV wavelength works to interfere with microbial DNA and consequently block their reproduction and prevent them from infecting the environment.

According to Dr. Richard Martinello, an associate professor at Yale School of Medicine and medical director of the Department of Infection Prevention at Yale New Haven Hospital, UV light has been found to be beneficial against coronaviruses, including Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). Yet, more research needs to be done regarding UV light and its effect on battling COVID-19.

At WDG we've introduced these UV devices to protect our patients and staff:

UV-Sanitizing HEPA Air Purifiers

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.

Sterilizing UV Lamps

In complement to our heightened airflow management and filtration systems, we have also installed UV lamps that sterilize the environment by breaking down microbe DNA.

As the sun continues to shine during these warm summer days, remember to keep these summer safety tips in mind as we all try to limit the spread of COVID-19. Plus, keeping your immune system healthy and strong during these unprecedented times is particularly important. Don't forget, your oral health is an essential part of your overall heath, and we are always here for you. If you experience any COVID-19 symptoms, postpone dental treatment and seek immediate medical care.

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.cnbc.com/2020/05/26/dental-practices-consider-using-uv-light-tech-to-safely-reopen.html

https://www.dentistryiq.com/dentistry/products/infection-control-and-instrument-management/article/14180067/uvc-sterilization-works-in-large-healthcare-settings-what-about-dental-offices?utm_source=DEC_DIQ+Morning+Briefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=CPS200721105&o_eid=3760I9143045C2X&rdx.ident%5Bpull%5D=omeda%7C3760I9143045C2X&oly_enc_id=3760I9143045C2X

https://medicalxpress.com/news/2020-04-uv-wont-covid-19but-disinfect-medical.html

https://www.todaysrdh.com/ultraviolet-germicidal-irradiation-dental-medical-settings-method-sterilization/

https://www.fda.gov/media/136533/download

https://in.dental-tribune.com/news/how-to-use-ultraviolet-light-uvc-to-fight-covid-19-effectively-in-dental-clinics-dr-ajay-bajaj/

https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0024/5386/4500/files/Spectrum_of_Light.jpg?v=1528825019

https://facilityexecutive.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/UV.Covid-19.jpg

There has been much talk about the dangers of ingesting BPA through plastic sippy cups and even water bottles that we bring on the go. BPA, also known as bisphenol A, is a chemical found in hard plastics of food and drink containers and acts in a similar way to estrogen, and other hormones in the body.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had originally deemed BPA to be a safe substance, but recent studies have shown that this chemical has lead to disruption of normal hormone levels, possible brain and behavior problems in infants and young children, and an increased risk of cancer and heart problems.

Recently, researchers have tied enamel damage to early exposure to BPA. A team led by Ariane Berdal of the Universite Paris-Derot showed that rats that have been treated daily with low doses of BPA resulted in damaged enamel. The rats were observed during a 30-day development window where researchers exposed the rats to the doses of BPA. The earliest observations founds on the rats were white marks found on their incisors. On a macroscopic level, the teeth with white marks were found to have fragile and brittle BPA. On a microscopic level, the enamel showed a decreased level of crucial minerals, the teeth were more susceptible to cavities.

The damage found on the teeth of these rats is comparable to damaged tooth enamel found in 18% of children between the ages of 6 and 8. These researchers believe that enamel damage is another effect of BPA damage to the body. It is important to check products for a “BPA-free” label before they are bought. While the FDA has cracked down on plastics containing, be cautious when buying baby bottles, sippy cups, baby formula cans, and other products for young children. Our pediatric dentist, Dr. Pradhan and Drs. Ali & Ali at Wellesley Dental Group will be very happy to answer your questions. Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com!

Resources:

http://children.webmd.com/environmental-exposure-head2toe/bpa

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/06/130610133246.htm

http://www.voanews.com/content/bpa-teeth-13jun13/1681088.html

During pregnancy, women tend to look towards an overall healthier way of living. Many primarily seek out medical professionals that can keep them on track with a good diet and care for the coming baby. However, many expecting mothers tend to put oral health on the back burner during pregnancy.

It is highly recommended that good oral health be maintained before, during and after pregnancy. Pregnancy is known to kick start hormonal changes that can increase the risk of gum disease, which can in turn affect the coming baby. Because dental procedures have the potential of influencing the baby’s growth and development, it is recommended that mothers should avoid dental treatments during critical times for the baby, notably the first trimester and second half of the third trimester. But, routine dental care can be done on mothers in their second trimester. This also means that expecting mothers should be extra careful in keeping up with good oral hygiene during these critical stages of pregnancy.

It is important to keep the dentist informed of all the drugs that are taken during pregnancy; this can range from medications and even prenatal vitamins that have been prescribed. Dentists can potential modify the dental treatment plan based off of the drugs that are ingested. There are key drugs, including tetracycline, which can influence the expecting child’s teeth and should be avoided during pregnancy.

With these pointers in mind, it is essential to understand that being pregnant does not mean that it is a ticket out of a dental appointment. In fact, it should be more of a reason to make a visit to the dentist. Regular gum exams are very important during this time, for hormonal changes increase the risk of periodontal disease. It is important to pay close attention to any changes in the gums, whether there are signs of swelling or even bleeding.

The months of pregnancy can be both an exciting and stressful time, but with proper maintenance of both oral and overall systemic health, expecting mothers are then set on a path to a smoother pregnancy.  If you have any more questions, feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com

References:

http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/dental-care-pregnancy

http://www.knowyourteeth.com/infobites/abc/article/?abc=h&iid=325&aid=1309

http://www.ada.org/sections/scienceAndResearch/pdfs/forthedentalpatient_may_2011.pdf

When the topic of oral health is brought up, the focus is usually placed on teeth and the possibility of getting cavities. However, there is definitely more to the mouth! Gums can be a good indicator of oral health as well as one’s overall health! Individuals may find that after brushing their gums may look red and they may even start bleeding. Many tend to dismiss these signs and just attribute them to good and thorough brushing. But wait! This is not the case.

First things first, there is a misconception that to get clean teeth, brushing needs to be done vigorously to get all the grime off. While afterwards your teeth may feel clean, your gums are not too pleased.

Remember: gums are made of soft tissue and when aggravated they can become sore and red. When choosing a toothbrush, it is important to opt for soft nylon bristle with blunt ends. Stores may carry brushes with medium or hard bristles; however they may damage the enamel on teeth and can cause swollen gums. The idea of being gentle goes the same for flossing. The goal of flossing is to remove leftover food and plaque stuck between teeth; it does not mean these particles need to be forcefully taken out. It is important to refrain from forcing the floss in between teeth; instead, carefully slide the floss up and down, following the curve of each tooth.

Aside from proper brushing and flossing, bleeding gums is actually a sign of gum disease. When proper dental hygiene is not practiced, bacteria takes over and plaque starts forming. The same bacteria that jumpstarts the formation of cavities as makes gums irritated and swollen. Bleeding gums is an early sign of gum disease, also know as gingivitis, and symptoms can be reversed with good oral hygiene. But if these symptoms are ignored, gingivitis can get worse, eventually leading to tooth loss. Be on the lookout for these symptoms:

- deep pockets between teeth and gums
- changes in the way teeth come together
- gums that bleed during/after toothbrushing
- shifting teeth
- red, swollen, tender gums

If you experience these symptoms, be sure to set up an appointment with the dentist to determine the necessary steps to keep these symptoms from getting worse. 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

References:

http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/gum-problem-basics-sore-swollen-and-bleeding-gums

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003062.htm

http://www.medicinenet.com/gum_problems/article.htm

Read more at http://wellesleydentalgroup.com/blog/?p=4564, http://wellesleydentalgroup.com/blog/?p=3457

Good news for all you seafood lovers out there. The Journal ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces have found something very special about mussels’ adhesive nature. Not only does it let these creatures hold fast to rocks in the ocean, researchers have found that they also can be beneficial for teeth.

Quan-Li Li, Chun Hung Chu, and other researchers noted that there are three out of four people who have teeth sensitive to hot, cold, sweet or sour foods and drinks. These scientists were determined to look for ways to rebuild enamel and dentin, which are important factors that determine tooth sensitivity. They found that mussel’s natural adhesive, which allows them to attach to rocks, can be a synthetic substance used to reform the eroded enamel and dentin. They worked under the hypothesis that the sticky substance in mussels would have the ability to keep essential minerals in contact with dentin long enough for reformation to occur.

In 2011, an international team of scientists that mussel’s adhesive proved to be a successful alternative to other coatings used in teeth. While most coatings tend to make teeth weak and brittle over time, the synthetic coating created from mussel adhesive had the ability to heal itself when damaged. The researchers also found that minerals in other coatings were only able to reform enamel while the synthetic adhesive was able to reform both enamel and dentin. Phil Messersmith of Northwestern University have taken into account mussels’ incredible adhesive properties and have created a polymer used in coating that can mend tears in just a matter of minutes!

While these scientists continue to incorporate this newfound adhesive to the clinical setting, there are still ways to battle sensitive teeth. Doctors continue to recommend that individuals practice good oral hygiene (brushing twice a day and making sure to floss carefully). Those with sensitive teeth can also be extra careful when consuming acidic foods such as juices, vinegar in salad dressings and soft drinks. A good way to protect teeth is to rinse the mouth with water after consuming these foods. Teeth grinding can also leave teeth susceptible to sensitivity; ask the dentist about a mouth guard for nighttime use to prevent teeth grinding.

If you have any more questions, feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com

References:

Sensodyne on sensitive teeth
ACS journal website
Science Daily website
Yahoo Health
http://www.empowher.com/dental-amp-oral-health/content/sticking-mussels-beneficial-sensitive-teeth

When people go out for a game of basketball or soccer, many don’t usually think about teeth. Dentists recall numerous stories where patients have come in with chipped or even missing teeth due to an intense game on the court. In order children and a

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) issued a policy statement back in 2012 stating that breastfeeding and the use of human milk have show to reduce health risks for infants, children, and mothers, also including advantages such as developmental, nutritional, immunological, and psychological benefits. The APP exclaims that breast milk is the best nutrient source for babies. It contains immunological agents, including secretory immunoglobulin (g) A and IgG, along with anti-inflammatory properties that act as protection for the infant’s immune system.

Researchers found that compared to formula-fed children, children who were breast-fed had a lower risk of diarrhea by coating intestinal lining and killing dangerous pathogens that leave babies prone to infection. Breast milk also combats severe lower respiratory infections, including pneumonia and virus bronchiolitis; a child’s risk of developing asthma is also reduced. The immunological and anti-inflammatory properties of breast milk controls to onset of infection and illnesses, reducing sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Breastfed-children are also less likely to develop obesity, which is a prevalent disease that 12.5 million children and teens suffer from today. Breastfeeding helps protect against obesity by improving self-regulation of energy intake and recognizing when one is full. On top of these general health benefits, breast-fed children showed better occlusion, where their top and bottom teeth came together more favorably.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) suggests that parents should clean infants’ gums even if they do not have teeth. Parents can use a soft washcloth to clean the gums. The AAPD also recommends that breastfeeding should be exclusive for about the first six months of life; this should continue past six months with the gradual introduction of foods fit for the baby. If you have any concerns our pediatric dentist Dr. Pradhan, and Drs. Ali & Ali at Wellesley Dental Group will be very happy to answer your questions. Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com!

References:

http://jada.ada.org/content/144/2/143.full.pdf+html

http://jada.ada.org/content/144/2/143.short?rss=1&%3bssource=mfr

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/gina-ciagne/how-to-become-a-healthier_b_697162.html

In 2006, the America Cancer Society predicts that there would be 212,920 new cases of invasive breast cancer, and in that year, 40,970 women would die from it. While breast cancer is the second leading cause of death for women in the United States, many lives can also be saved if a diagnosis was given earlier. Studies recently show that salivary tests can now be used to make early diagnoses for breast cancer.

In General Dentistry, researchers explain that there are proteins levels in saliva that can play a role in forming a diagnosis, treatment plan, and potential follow-up care for a patient with breast cancer. That would put general dentists in a position to assist with diagnosis samples. Because patients tend to make more frequent dental visits than physician visits, it would make sense for dentists to easily take saliva samples from patients’ mouths during checkups.

Salivary tests have also shown to have advantages over blood testing. Researchers have compared saliva and blood samples and explained that while saliva is clear and colorless, blood can change in color, which may affect test results. Saliva collection is also safe and non-invasive, and can be taken without causing the patient any pain.

This method of diagnosis is still pending and under the consideration of the Food and Drug Administration. If salivary testing does get approved, dentists and physicians can work together to help catch the onset of breast cancer early on. However, this does not mean that women should not go in for mammogram screenings or blood analysis; they are still considered the first line of defense. Even if breast cancer was detected via a salivary sample, a mammogram or imaging test is still needed to find the location of the cancer.

The possibility of detecting breast cancer early on through something as non-invasive as salivary analysis is truly promising. 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 and consultation.

References:

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/01/080110123921.htm