Why do people dread having their teeth cleaned?!

Your dental visit should be a pleasant experience. Here are some tips to help you enjoy and to want to have your teeth cleaned:
Do not hesitate to ask to have the dental chair positioned a bit differently to make you comfortable. A small pillow placed behind your head or neck area can be helpful (ask for one or bring one from home). If you enjoy listening to music or audio books bring your earphones and player for during the cleaning. Background sounds and noises can be blocked out and you can get into your own zone. Lastly, do your best at home to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Brushing your teeth and tongue twice a day especially before bed and flossing once a day before bed will reduce the bacteria in your mouth making your whole mouth cleaner, fresher and healthier. Your dental cleaning in the office will surely be shorter, more comfortable and a more pleasant experience!

This dental tip was written by Janet Biddiscombe RDH, BS. Janet is a dental hygienist with Prezioso Dental

Our Tap Appliance Testimonial

The TAP dental appliance installed by Dr. Prezioso seems to have eliminated my sleep apnea virtually overnight. The appliance took only a few days to get used to, but the initial mild discomfort was well worth it. As far as my wife and I can tell, the nighttime breathing interruptions and sudden awakenings that plagued me for years are gone. I seem to sleep soundly and deeply. The snoring has been eliminated for all intents and purposes. I look forward to sleep instead of dreading it. I awaken feeling more refreshed, and I am noticeably less tired during the day -- particularly in the afternoons. Thank you so much, Dr. Prezioso!

A.C.

Holiday Tips

Proper nutrition is a key to maintaining good oral health. Many times improving your diet can help prevent tooth decay. During the holidays it is important to continue to eat healthy even though there are many tempting sweets. Remember to limit your sugar intake and stay clear of sticky and chewy items. You should brush and floss after every meal. If that is not available, drink water or chew sugar-free gum. Do not delay on your dental work. Take care of any toothache, however slight, so you can enjoy the holidays. You cannot deck the halls and eat delicious cookies with a tooth ache!

A Quote from Nancy Dudchik, President of the Hamden Chamber of Commerce:

"We were very proud to have honored Prezioso Dental as Small Business of the Year. From serving the needs of their clients to serving the needs of the community, Dr. Prezioso and their entire staff understands the importance of giving back and assisting others. It's a part of their core value as an organization and it comes naturally. It's clear to see why they were a most deserving recipient.

Don’t Forget to Floss -
“Brushing only cleans half of your total tooth surface,” says Sally Cram, D.D.S., as Washington, D.C.-based periodontist and a spokesperson for the American Dental Association. In only 24 hours bacteria can accumulate between teeth and under the gum line and cause inflammation. “Receding gums make you look older,” says Dr. Cram. “And the bacteria can travel through your body, causing inflammation in other areas. Studies suggest that this may raise your odds of heart disease, diabetes and respiratory problems.” Flossing, which gets between teeth and under the gum line, is the answer.
How to Start -
Buy waxed floss, which slips easily between teeth, Keep some in your bathroom and some in you purse-and use it daily.

Oral Cancer - Know What To Look Fo

As with many forms of cancer, early detection of oral cancerous lesions can improve the chances of successful treatment. You can take an active role in detecting signs of oral cancer early by checking your oral tissues periodically. Take a few minutes to examine your lips, gums, cheek lining and tongue, as well as the floor and roof or your mouth. You'll want to note any of the following:
a color change in the oral tissues (whitish or red spots,for example);
a lump, thickening, rough spot, crust or small eroded area;
a sore that bleeds easily or does not heal;
pain, tenderness or numbness anywhere in the mouth or on the lips;
difficulty in chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving the jaw or tongue;
changes in the voice;
a change in the way your teeth fit together;
in addition, watch for changes beyond the mouth that could signal oral cancer;
drastic weight loss;
a lump or mass in your neck.
If any of these conditions persists, contact your dentist for an examination.

A person who has not slept for 20 hours has a level of impairment equal to someone with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 per cent, over the limit of 0.05, at which a driver is considered legally impaired in Ontario.