A great article about changes in dentistry, from Discovery Dental

The world around us is always changing and evolving, whether it’s the latest gadget you ordered online or the high-tech braces on your teeth! Recently, we read an article in the New York Times about dental implants, and how they are becoming increasingly favored over bridges to replace lost teeth. One thing to remember about dental implants is that they need to be cared for just like your regular teeth; daily brushing and flossing are a must!

Call us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Stinchfield to discuss your implant options.

-Dr. Stinchfield and team

Moooooove over gum disease!

Dr. Stinchfield wants to know: Is dairy a major part of your diet? If not, it should be! A 2008 study from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) has found that regular consumption of dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, can actually lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease (or gum disease). Study results showed that adults who consume at least 55 grams of lactic acid a day are less at risk for gum disease.

Cheese is one of the healthiest snacks for your child's teeth. In addition to providing large amounts of much-needed calcium, cheese also does its part to fight cavities. Cheddar, Swiss, Mozzarella, and Monterey Jack all stimulate the body's salivary glands to clear the mouth of debris and protect them from acids that weaken them, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. This means cheese disrupts the development of cavities, especially when eaten as a snack or at the end of a meal. Calcium and phosphorous found in cheese reduce or prevent decreases in the plaque's ph level and work to re-mineralize the enamel of your child's teeth.

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth that affects the gums and jaw. Gum disease results in a loss of teeth and bone, and has been connected to certain cases of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease and osteoporosis.

Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Next time you reach for a quick snack, choose some cheese, or a glass of milk, and remember with each bite, and every sip you are preserving your teeth for a lifetime of smiles and good oral health!

For more information about which dairy foods are best for keeping your teeth healthy, please give us a call.

September is National Gum Care Month

Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, can be difficult to recognize. Many people do not recognize the warning signs - bleeding and swollen gums - as a precursor to gum disease. This month, a national campaign is underway to raise awareness about gum health and periodontal disease, and we at Discovery Dental wanted to do our part to help spread the word!

Early recognition and action are the most important steps to health gums, and ultimately a health body too! Studies are published every year linking oral health, including the gums, to the health of other areas of the body, such as the heart. One of the most important steps to improving the care of your gums is recognizing the warning signs for gum disease. These can include:

• Gums that appear red or swollen
• Gums that feel tender
• Gums that bleed easily (during brushing or flossing)
• Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
• Persistent halitosis, or bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Any change in the way teeth come together in the biting position

If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment with our office as soon as possible. We can take proactive steps to prevent gingivitis and gum disease, while showing you how to improve gum care in your daily oral hygiene habits.

Would you like a new smile in just six months? Ask Dr. Stinchfield about Six Month Smiles!

Have you been dreaming about a new smile? Discovery Dental is now offering Six Month Smiles for all of our adult patients that would like a beautiful smile, without the discomfort or metal braces. Six month smiles are nearly invisible clear braces, which can gently straighten and align teeth in an average time of just six months.

Dr. Stinchfield is a certified Six Month Smiles provider, serving patients in Washougal, Camas, and Stevenson WA. Feel free to give us a call if you have any questions about Six Month Smiles, or if you would like to schedule a consultation.

With OraVerse at Discovery Dental, you can reverse the numbness of anesthesia

Discovery Dental is pleased to offer our patients the option to reverse the affects of anesthesia at the end of dental procedures. OraVerse is a local anesthetic reversal agent that reverses the effects of anesthesia so that it wears off in about 30 minutes, instead of 120 minutes or more. This cutting-edge treatment option allows patients to leave our office without the unpleasent side affects that can result from anesthesia. Dr. Stinchfield and our team is now offering OraVerse at a minimal cost to our patients.



Please give us a call if you have any questions about OraVerse, or if you would like to schedule your next appointment.