February 16th, 2012
It seems like there is a smartphone app for almost anything. Need directions, use the GPS app. Want to discover the night sky, there’s an app that will tell you the names of the stars directly above you. Want to sleep better – why not try an app for that as well?
Actually there are several smartphone apps as well as other tech gadgets that claim to be able to monitor your sleep and give you information you can use to try to get a better night’s sleep.
The lowest cost options are the smartphone apps which are either free or very low in price. These apps are pretty simple and don’t offer a lot of detailed information. They work by tracking your movement during sleep (the phone is under your pillow – don’t forget to turn off the ringer) and may offer you some insight into your sleep patterns.
Sleep tracking gadgets are having a mixed record. One product sold by AT&T that worked with the iPhone had a number of problems and was pulled from the market. The Zeo Personal Sleep Coach uses a headband worn while sleeping to track your sleep movements while the Wakemate uses a wristband. Data is downloaded to a smartphone or computer. The trick is figuring out what to do with your data.
You may discover that your sleep is more disturbed when the weather is warm or when the light from the full moon is shining in your bedroom. Of course none of these devices or apps is a substitute for a sleep study to discover the true cause of your sleep problems. If you experience extreme daytime sleepiness then a serious sleep disorder like obstructive sleep apnea should be ruled out.
Fortunately today we can screen for sleep apnea right in your own bed. Dr. John Highsmith is trained in dental sleep medicine and offers patients in the Asheville, NC area the option of a Home Sleep Study. The innovative technology used allows diagnosis of sleep disorders in the privacy and comfort of your home.
Please contact Dr. Highsmith today at 828-627-9282 to schedule your sleep consultation.
Tags: home sleep testing, obstructive sleep apnea
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February 14th, 2012
Smokers not only have more dental problems than non-smokers but a new survey shows they also go to the dentist less often. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) surveyed 16,000 adults and it should be an eye-opener for patients who smoke.
More than one-third of the smokers reported having three or more dental problems. The dental problems included toothaches, infected gums, stained teeth and jaw pain. The people who reported never smoking had less than half that amount of dental problems. Smokers also avoided visiting the dentist with only 20% of them having gone in the last five years.
The interesting thing was that the smokers seemed to be aware that their dental health was bad but “they’re not doing anything about it” according to Robin Cohen of the CDC. Smokers were much more likely to say they could not afford to see a dentist than the non-smokers. Since a pack of cigarettes range in cost from about $5 to a high of almost $12 (New York) a lot of money is taken up by smoking so that finding is not surprising.
Because smokers have much higher rates of gum disease and oral cancers it is vitally important that they get regular dental care. Regular dental visits can prevent small problems from turning into big expensive ones. If you haven’t been to visit the dentist in a while please contact the office of Dr. John Highsmith serving the Asheville, NC area at 828-627-9282. We’ll be happy to schedule your appointment and work with you toward achieving optimal oral health.
Tags: gum disease, oral cancer, Oral health
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February 10th, 2012
Years ago teenagers were the ones who wore braces and they all had a mouth full of silver metal. Today the age for wearing braces and how you look during treatment has changed dramatically.
We are seeing more and more adults seeking orthodontic treatment. Some are parents that have witnessed the transformation in their own children and want a beautiful smile for themselves as well. Others are people who have just gotten tired of being uncomfortable smiling or laughing in public.
Adult patients may be people in their 20′s who never had braces as kids and want a nicer smile to help further their careers or folks in their 50′s who are getting braces for career enhancement, to feel better about themselves or because crooked teeth are beginning to cause jaw or dental problems. Whatever the reason new advances in orthodontics have made the process much easier than it used to be.
Six Month Smiles is choice for many adult patients because of the short treatment time (many cases can be completed in about six months) and the fact that the brackets and wires are tooth colored and nearly invisible. No more metal mouth like the photo. Not every case is appropriate for Six Month Smiles so please ask us if you are a candidate for this revolutionary way to achieve straighter teeth.
Contact Dr. John Highsmith in Asheville, NC today at 828-627-9282 to schedule your orthodontic consultation. The straight, beautiful smile you have always dreamed of is possible with Six Month Smiles.
Tags: cosmetic dentistry, six month smiles
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February 7th, 2012
Are sleep problems be linked to prostate cancer risk? A study done in Iceland showed that men with the most trouble sleeping were twice as likely to develop prostate cancer as those without any sleep disruptions. The study participants primarily experienced severe insomnia.
Other research has also linked sleep disruption and cancer. A previous study found that the sleep problems caused by working the night shift had a bigger impact on the risk for prostate cancer the longer the man worked that shift. It seems that a few nights of disrupted sleep are not harmful but long term sleep problems or shift work cause problems. Working the night shift has been shown to suppress the immune system and reduces the amount of melatonin created by the body, both of which may promote cancer growth.
The Icelandic research did not address whether treating sleep problems would reduce the risk of cancer and other scientists caution that more research is needed. We are just discovering how important sleep is for our overall physical and mental well-being.
Sleeping with someone who snores loudly all night long is simply bad for your health. If you are unable to get a full night of sleep because your bed partner is too loud then it is time to get help. Snoring can be a sign of a more serious illness called obstructive sleep apnea. There are various ways to stop the snoring and one of the most effective is by using an oral appliance. Both parties can get a good night’s sleep once the snoring stops and you’ll both be amazed by how much better you feel and how much more energy you have.
In the Asheville, area please contact Dr. John Highsmith today at 828-627-9282 to schedule an evaluation to see if you may be a candidate for an oral appliance.
Tags: obstructive sleep apnea, oral appliance therapy, sleep disorders
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February 3rd, 2012
For some people energy drinks are a quick pick-me-up, for some they may cause health problems, and for everyone they are a danger to dental enamel. Lots of us are using them. Red Bull alone sold over $2 billion worth of those little blue and silver cans in 2010.
Why do energy drinks cause dental damage?
Energy drinks are highly acidic. Not only does the acid erode your tooth enamel but it also changes the pH levels in your mouth making it much more hospitable to bacteria. Bacteria cause gum disease and tooth decay.
Most energy drinks contain lots of sugar. Yes, there are some sugar free brands available but most rely at least partly on sugar for a quick energy rush. Sugar is always bad for your teeth but combined with the high acid content of the drinks your dental enamel faces an uphill battle. The acid has compromised the enamel and the sugar feeds all the bacteria that are growing in the pH altered mouth.
Some drinks can also cause dry mouth. Caffeine is a diuretic and some energy drinks can cause you to dehydrate. When your mouth is dry the chances of tooth decay and gum disease increase. We need our saliva to keep our mouths clean and healthy.
Too much caffeine can cause your body to secrete calcium through urine. Both bones and teeth suffer when calcium levels decline.
If you consume lots of energy drinks try to protect your smile by rinsing with water after finishing the drink. Wait to brush your teeth about an hour so you don’t further damage your dental enamel. Chew sugar-free gum containing xylitol to help with saliva flow.
Asheville, NC area dentist Dr. John Highsmith uses only mercury-free materials to repair dental decay. Contact us today at 828-627-9282 to schedule your appointment.
Tags: cavities, dental amalgam
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January 31st, 2012
So, what the heck is dental plaque? Well, here are the facts on plaque and how it affects your oral health.
Plaque is a biofilm which means it is a colorless, sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. If you have ever felt like you were wearing sweaters on your teeth then you know the fuzzy feeling that plaque causes is not a good thing.
Plaque forms when foods containing carbohydrates come in contact with our teeth. When we eat something containing carbohydrates like sugar or starch, the bacteria that live in our mouths have a party. These substances serve as food for our oral bacteria and a by-product of the bacterial feeding frenzy are acids. These acids can destroy tooth enamel leading to cavities and the plaque can also form under the gum line damaging the gums and breaking down the bone that supports the teeth.
Preventing plaque means keeping up with your oral hygiene. You have to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Flossing is not optional, to keep bacteria in check you must floss at least once a day between all teeth. Professional dental cleanings need to be scheduled every six months (more often if you have gum disease).
Eating a healthy diet and limiting snacking can also help keep plaque from taking over your teeth. Raw vegetables, yogurt, cheese and fruit are all healthy choices that also great for your smile.
If your teeth are feeling “fuzzy” it is time to make the call. Contact us today at 828-627-9282 to schedule your next visit to our Clyde, NC office.
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January 27th, 2012
Surprisingly, even among people with good dental health, tooth loss happens.Almost 3/4 of adults over age 35 have lost at least one tooth. By the age of 74 about 25% of us have lost ALL of their teeth. Reasons for the loss vary – tooth decay, accidents, gum disease, excessive wear (bruxism or tooth grinding), or periodontal disease.
The importance of replacing the tooth as soon as possible -
When a tooth is removed other teeth will begin to shift in your mouth making brushing and flossing more difficult. The jaw bone that once anchored the tooth is no longer needed in that area and begins to recede. Chewing food may become more difficult causing nutrition problems, especially for older patients. Jaw pain and headaches may begin due to changes in the bite.
There are several ways to replace lost teeth. Dental Bridges, Removable Appliances and Dental Implants are all readily available choices. Your dentist will recommend the best procedure based upon your oral health and the number or placement of the missing teeth. For most people, the strongest, most durable replacement option is the dental implant.
Dental implants are small titanium screws that act as an artificial tooth root. The implant is placed in your jaw bone and the bone and surrounding tissue grow around the implant and hold it in place. A special dental crown is attached to the implant for a natural looking and feeling tooth replacement. Implants are used to replace just one missing tooth, to replace many teeth, even used to anchor dentures.
Contact Dr. Highsmith today at 828-627-9282 more information about tooth replacement using dental implants, bridges or removable appliances.
Tags: cavities, dental implants, gum disease
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January 23rd, 2012
What are the hot new health trends for 2012? According to a national research group,The Values Institute at DGWB, we are going to be reading and talking about these health trends as the year goes on.
Health Trends 2012:
- Natural energy drinks – Instead of Red Bull and Monster consumers will be looking for an energy boost from more natural ingredients like vitamins and tea extracts.
- Sleep – Study after study confirms the link between poor quality sleep with high blood pressure, heart disease, weight gain, depression and even sexual dysfunction. Anyone who snores loudly should be tested for a sleep breathing disorder such as sleep apnea to preserve their own health as well as the health of their bed partner.
- Flexitarian eating – This means that more American’s will enjoy a few more vegan or vegetarian meals each week for health purposes but still eat animal protein on occasion. Vegan and vegetarian diets can be excellent for gum health.
- Health Apps - Do it yourself health applications for smart phones and tablet computers can do everything from monitor your moles and blood pressure to scan your sleep for disruptions. Expect to see even more as the Apple App Store expects their offerings to increase to 13,000 in this category by the end of the year.
- Digital Motivation – Track your fitness with a gadget or commit to losing weight via a Facebook page where your friends can help lend accountability to your actions.
According to Mark Weisman of the Values Institute “These trends are consistent with the growing importance of health in America — if not yet as a daily routine then certainly as a primary goal in 2012 for three out of four consumers… Health is the new prestige barometer in the country — meaning that the great majority of Americans would rather be considered healthy than wealthy.”
We must add improving our oral health to the list above. In 2012 make a commitment to proper brushing, flossing and regularly schedule hygiene visits. Overall health begins with a healthy smile and all of us at the office of Dr. John Highsmith are looking forward to helping you make 2012 your healthiest year ever. In the Asheville, NC area contact us today at 828-627-9282 to schedule your next appointment.
Tags: obstructive sleep apnea
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January 18th, 2012
Like a lot of celebrities Kim Kardashian loves Twitter but I guess she hates dentists. She tweeted yesterday that she is afraid of going to the dentist and had to spend the entire day in the dental chair having fillings. Actually she complimented her dentist but complained about fillings.
Lots of people share her fear of visiting the dentist and like Ms. Kardashian they avoid regular visits for professional cleanings and checkups. Like your mom always told you — when you ignore something it doesn’t go away it usually gets worse. In the case of your dental health this is very true.
If Ms. Kardashian had been visiting the dentist regularly her cavities would have been discovered and treated at a very early stage. Much easier on the patient and the dentist — cavities and gum disease don’t heal themselves.
If Kim avoided the dentist (I don’t know for sure if she did or didn’t) because of anxiety or fear there was an easy solution to her problem. Sedation dentistry allows patients to get the care they need while completely relaxed, many times they even sleep through their care! Depending upon the needs of the patient there are different levels of sedation but most often nitrous oxide or oral sedation with a small pill is all that is needed. Years of dental neglect can be corrected in just a few visits.
For more information or to schedule your appointment please contact Dr. John Highsmith at 828-627-9282, serving the Asheville, NC area.
Tags: cavities, sedation dentistry
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January 11th, 2012
A national research group called The Values Institute at DGWB surveyed consumers and determined the new health trends for 2012. They predict we’ll be hearing about:
- Natural energy drinks – consumers will be looking for an energy boost from more natural ingredients like vitamins and tea extracts and avoid chemically laden drinks like Red Bull and 5-hour Energy.
- Sleeping well – Studies have confirmed the link between poor quality sleep and high blood pressure, heart disease, weight gain, depression and even sexual dysfunction. Anyone who snores loudly should be tested for a sleep breathing disorder such as sleep apnea to preserve their own health. The snorers need to be aware that their nocturnal noises affect the health of their bed partner too.
- Flexitarian eating – This means that people will have a few more vegan or vegetarian meals each week for health purposes but still eat animal protein on occasion. Vegan and vegetarian diets can be excellent for gum health.
- Smart Phone Health Apps - Do it yourself health applications for smart phones and tablet computers can do everything from monitor your moles and blood pressure to scan your sleep for disruptions. Expect to see even more as the Apple App Store expects their offerings to increase to 13,000 in this category by the end of the year.
- Digital Motivation – Track your fitness with a gadget or commit to losing weight via a Facebook page where your friends can help lend accountability to your actions.
According to Mark Weisman of the Institute “These trends are consistent with the growing importance of health in America — if not yet as a daily routine then certainly as a primary goal in 2012 for three out of four consumers… Health is the new prestige barometer in the country — meaning that the great majority of Americans would rather be considered healthy than wealthy.”
Let’s add improving our oral health to the list above. In 2012 make a commitment to proper brushing, flossing and regularly schedule hygiene visits. Overall health begins with a healthy smile and the bacteria and inflammation from infected gums can travel throughout the body.
Please contact the office of John Highsmith, DDS in the Asheville, NC area at 828-627-9282 to schedule your next appointment. We look forward to speaking with you!
Tags: obstructive sleep apnea, sleep disorders
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