You’ve probably heard about 3D printing, but did you know that this technology is applicable to dentistry? Though it seems to have emerged straight from the pages of your favorite cyberpunk novel, it seems that digitally created implants may be in the cards for future dentists and healthcare professionals.
3D printing has also come to be known as additive manufacturing, which means that digital 3D models are turned into solid objects by building up layers of a certain material (matching the parameters of the digital model) to create a real life object!
Though the technology was first introduced as the natural next step after 2D printing on paper, it has quickly evolved into a game-changing manufacturing technology. So far industries including but not limited to aerospace, defense, and art and design have adopted the technology for a variety of uses. Though it’s not definite when or to what degree 3D printing might be adopted by the dental industry, there is great potential for patients’ dental needs to be fulfilled quickly and locally using this technology.
Most dentists would agree: every person’s mouth is unique. This is the main reason why 3D printing could be massively successful in dentistry. Crowns, bridges, retainers, splints, dentures, and surgical guides and instruments, all require some level of custom work to match each patient’s mouth.
“I love the idea of 3D printing as there are many ways for it to be used in dentistry,” Dr. Brian Brunacini commented. “Whether it involves a metal framework for a partial denture or making a crown, the technology can only help. As dentistry goes digital, the impressions we take are so accurate that having a perfect fit is easily accomplished, which reduces costs and the amount of time required for each fitting.”
Digital x-rays as well as scans and models have already begun to “digitalize” dentistry work systems. These systems are becoming increasingly commonplace. In fact, you may have already encountered 3D printing in dentistry, though you might not realize it: Invisalign utilizes 3D modeling and printing technology in the creation of their products.
Despite initial barriers as 3D printing tried to gain a foothold in the industry, it seems that further technological advances are removing issues like high cost, software unreliability, and material limitations. With the introduction of desktop 3D printers, the cost of professional 3D printers has dropped substantially. Desktop and large-scale printers alike have been able to perform accurately in a clinical setting. In particular, the usability and relative low cost of desktop models have made the technology accessible for dental firms of every size.
As more 3D printers, software, and materials continue to be released, the industry continues to change. 3D printing is already possible with pure metals, metal alloys, thermoplastics and thermoplastic composites, ceramics, and edible food materials. Materials can also be formulated to take on different textures. As one example, gum tissue can be replicated with materials that have a rubbery texture. The most important factor in assessing materials is the quality of the final printed product.
Each year, more and more materials are released in accordance with FDA regulation. Soon, companies will release biocompatible materials that will be compatible with certain printers models. This development will further expand the potential of the technology, and would result in printers being able to create custom dental implants, like crowns or bridges, right there in the office.
Dr. Brunacini offered his perspective on the future of this technology. “There are still a lot of hurdles ahead for 3D printing in dentistry,” he stated. “Something to keep in mind along the way is that the art of dentistry is very important to as well, and that art could be lost with machines fabricating a crown.”
Whatever is in store for 3D printing and dentistry, you can rest assured that you’re able to rely on the care and craftsmanship of your trusted team at Falmouth Dental Arts. Interested in dental technology and how it has evolved over the years? Let’s talk more at your next appointment!
We’re pretty approachable here at Falmouth Dental Arts, and yet, we know and appreciate that a trip to the dentist may not be exactly what some of you have in mind as ‘fun.’ This is certainly the case when and if a root canal comes into the picture, but the future is looking bright in that regard: a recent breakthrough has many people thinking (and hoping) that root canals may become a thing of the past, thanks to stem cells.
Over the past year, regenerative dental fillings have generated much scientific attention. Researchers from the University of Nottingham and Harvard University’s Wyss Institute have found that fillings utilizing stem cells could change the future of root canal procedures for the better, by stimulating teeth to repair and regenerate their own damaged tissues.
What role do stem cells play in this process? Stem cells are undifferentiated (aka non-specialized) cells that are capable of transforming into different cells. Stem cells have been utilized in other regenerative therapies that have developed over the past several years. To date, most applications of stem cells in the health industry involve repair of diseased and/or injured tissues.
It’s technology that could change many people’s lives. For those who don’t know about root canals, they can be intimidating experiences for some patients because the root canal – also referred to as the pulp – and the nerve of a tooth are removed due to extensive tissue damage. Usually the damage is from a prior cavity in the region that spread beyond the enamel into the tissue below. Removal of a tooth’s pulp and nerve also dramatically weakens the tooth, and might require further dental work like crowns or caps to reinforce the tooth. Additionally, materials inserted into fillings as a result of cavities or root canals are also often toxic to cells. Regenerative fillings would hypothetically negate all these risks, and would not require invasive procedures.
Our own Dr. Brian Brunacini shared his thoughts on the potential of the technology. “In dentistry, we are always searching for ways to make the experience as non-invasive and comfortable as possible. It is exciting to see new treatment modalities coming out in dentistry. Regenerative dentistry would be a complete paradigm shift in how teeth are repaired.”
During initial tests, regenerative fillings successfully stimulated the development of dentin, the tissue that makes up the tooth below the visible white enamel. Theoretically, injecting these stem cell-powered biomaterials into a damaged tooth would prompt the cells to regenerate dentin in their natural environment, right where it’s needed the most. This could mean that in the future a damaged tooth could heal itself!
As supporters of holistic and integrative dentistry, we’re excited about this breakthrough. We’ll have to curb our enthusiasm for now: regenerative fillings are only in the initial stages of research and much must be done to develop the treatment before it’s ready for use on humans. The research is promising however: regenerative fillings received second place in the materials category of the Royal Society of Chemistry’s Emerging Technologies Competition in 2016.
This development could mean a great deal to dental patients who require fillings and root canals across the globe. Are you curious about the prospect of regenerative dental fillings? Call and talk with us about them, or let’s chat at your next appointment.
Over the past few years, electronic cigarettes have become quite the topic of conversation. A trendy alternative to traditional cigarettes, many smokers have switched to e-cigarettes based on the assumption that they are safer. Chemicals found in traditional cigarettes can cause a myriad of issues for the smoker, and teeth discoloration and plaque build-up are just the tip of the iceberg. While e-cigarettes don’t contain as many harmful chemicals as traditional cigarettes, the vapor produced by e-cigarettes can still cause problems for the smoker. Since e-cigarettes have emerged on the scene, there has been an ongoing debate in the healthcare world about whether or not these cigarettes are actually safer. An important part of this conversation is the impact of e-cigarettes on oral health.
First, we should consider how e-cigarettes work. Electronic cigarettes are battery-powered devices that are designed to look and feel like a traditional cigarette. To use an e-cigarette, the user fills the cartridge with a liquid containing nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals. The liquid inside is heated and becomes vapor, which the user inhales. Though often used by those who want to quit smoking traditional cigarettes, they are also enticing to young people because of the flavorings that one can purchase. Unlike regular cigarettes, using an electronic cigarette enables the vapor to take on a tasty – often sweet – flavor. Cotton candy, grape, peanut butter and jelly, snickerdoodle, and toasted coconut are a few popular flavors.
While e-cigarettes do not contain tobacco like traditional cigarettes, they still contain nicotine. Nicotine, no matter how it enters the body, can contribute significantly to poor oral health. For one, nicotine reduces the amount of blood that can flow through your veins. Without sufficient blood flow, the gums are unable to get the oxygen and nutrients that they need to stay healthy and eventually, the gum tissue can begin to die. The reduction in blood flow can also mask the symptoms of gum disease. Typically, gum disease is diagnosed when the gums swell with blood; so when you floss or brush, they bleed. But because of the vein constriction in the gums, this telltale symptom of gum disease can’t be observed.
Another problem that can occur is reduced production of saliva. The vapor from e-cigarettes can inhibit your ability to produce saliva, which can cause bad breath, bacteria build-up, and dry mouth. Though these side effects may seem minor, a consistent lack of saliva can ultimately contribute to tooth decay.
On the surface, it may appear that the use of an e-cigarette is safe. While it seems clear that using e-cigarettes is nominally safer than smoking traditional cigarettes, using an e-cigarette doesn’t necessarily mean you are in the clear regarding health risks. More research is being conducted to determine the extent of health risks posed by e-cigarettes. In the meantime, however, current discourse suggests that the use of e-cigarettes can have a negative impact on oral health, so we feel it’s best to play it safe. If you have concerns about e-cigarettes and their impact on your oral health, please feel free to reach out to us at 207-781-5900 or ask us during your next appointment.
February is National Children’s Dental Health Month! To celebrate, we want to talk about the tiniest members of our families with the tiniest teeth: babies! Whether you are a first-time parent or just had your fifth, the cutting of the first tooth is an exciting (and painful) experience. For those involved with baby’s first tooth, there are a lot of questions. Come visit us to get all your questions answered, but in the meantime, here are the answers to some questions we hear frequently!
When should I take my baby to the dentist?
Taking your baby to their first dentist appointment should occur sometime after their first tooth comes in and no later than their first birthday. At this appointment, your dentist will examine their teeth for cavities and can also show you how to properly clean your child’s teeth. Your dentist might also guide you through how to handle habits like thumb-sucking.
How should I care for my baby’s first teeth?
Start cleaning your baby’s teeth as soon as they appear. Begin by wiping the gums with a clean, damp washcloth. You can also use a finger brush or another toothbrush designed for babies’ sensitive gums. Use toothpaste without sugar if at all possible. We don’t recommend brushing your baby’s teeth with fluoride toothpaste because babies tend to swallow it and ingest too much fluoride. Make sure to brush their teeth twice a day, just like you do!
How can I prevent tooth decay for my baby?
While baby teeth are temporary, it is still important to take care of them and prevent cavities. These first teeth also set the foundation to make sure adult teeth come in properly. One common cause of infant tooth decay is the frequent exposure of baby’s teeth to drinks that contain sugar. This exposure occurs most often when a baby is put to bed with a bottle, or when a bottle is used as a pacifier. Good habits that will help prevent this decay are regular brushing, avoiding juice, finishing bottles prior to bedtime, and encouraging general healthy eating habits.
Can breastfed babies get cavities?
Yes! Natural breast milk, just like formula, contains sugar. So it is important to care for your baby’s teeth from day one in either case. Make sure to wash your baby’s gums with a wet washcloth every day and brush their teeth twice a day as soon as the first tooth erupts.
How can thumb-sucking affect my child’s teeth?
Babies and children often suck their thumbs as a way to soothe themselves. However, this habit can result in improper development of the oral cavity and misalignment of the teeth. Thumb-sucking can even cause changes in the roof of the mouth. Pacifiers can affect the teeth in a similar manner. Typically, kids stop sucking their thumbs by the time their permanent teeth are ready to erupt, but it is important to try and stop the habit before that time comes.
The days when we were limited to plain white Colgate toothpaste are long gone. Today’s toothpaste market is inundated by alternatives to traditional products. Plain Colgate sits on shelves next to natural toothpaste, sparkly and glittery options for kids, and everything in between.
Homemade toothpaste, a lesser known alternative, is growing in popularity because of its all-natural ingredients, inexpensiveness, and America’s love affair with ‘doing-it-yourself’. Most homemade toothpaste ingredients can be purchased at any health food store or at online retailers. But, using the wrong homemade toothpaste recipe could lead to enamel damage or cause an imbalance in your mouth’s microbiology. To make sure you and your family are using safe and effective homemade toothpaste, here are some Falmouth Dental Arts approved recipes for you to try.
The following recipes should all be stored in a clean container of your choosing.
Coconut Oil Toothpaste – Recipe 1
Ingredients
2 TBS calcium powder (you can grind up calcium tabs in place of powder)
1 tsp baking soda
¼ tsp fine sea salt
½ tsp xylitol (about 1 packet)
2 TBS coconut oil (preferably extra virgin unrefined)
3 to 4 drops cinnamon essential oil (for flavor)*
2 to 3 drops nutmeg essential oil (for flavor)*
Mix all dry ingredients first, then add the coconut oil and stir until the mixture is blended. Add the essential oils and mix until smooth.
Coconut Oil Toothpaste – Recipe 2
Ingredients
½ cup coconut oil
2 to 3 TBS baking soda
2 small packets of stevia powder
15 to 20 drops of peppermint or cinnamon essential oil (for flavor)*
10 drops myrrh extract (optional for flavor)*
Melt or slightly soften the coconut oil then mix in all other ingredients and stir well. Mix using a fork if you are using semi-hard coconut oil and use a spoon for liquid coconut oil. If you melted the coconut oil using a heat source, stir the mixture as it cools to prevent the baking soda from separating.
Remineralizing Toothpaste
Ingredients
5 parts calcium powder
1 part diatomaceous earth (optional)
2 parts baking soda
3 parts xylitol powder
3 to 5 parts coconut oil
Mint, cinnamon, orange, or myrrh essential oils (for flavor)*
Mix all of the dry ingredients together. Add the coconut oil slowly until the mixture has a smooth texture. Mix in the essential oils to taste.
Tooth Powder
Despite the different name, tooth powder is very similar to toothpaste and should be used in the same way.
Ingredients
4 TBS bentonite clay
2 tsp baking soda
1 ½ tsp finely ground unrefined sea salt
½ tsp clove powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 ½ tsp ground peppermint leaves**, spearmint leaves, or 5 to 10 drops of peppermint essential oil (for flavor)*
1 ½ tsp unrefined stevia powder
¾ tsp activated charcoal
Mix all ingredients together.
If you have questions about which homemade toothpaste is best for you, give us a call and we’ll help you make a decision based on your oral health needs.
*Essential oils can be potent, so start with a few drops then add more to taste. Make sure to use therapeutic-grade essential oils that are safe to ingest. Feel free to substitute other essential oils if you prefer.
**Ground peppermint tea can be used in place of ground peppermint leaves.
Flossing is just as important as brushing your teeth. And like toothbrushes, there are different types of floss. Which is the right floss for you? We’re going to break down the differences between types of flosses and give some tips on how best to use this important dental tool.
Waxed vs. Unwaxed
The biggest decision you have to make when it comes to floss is whether or not to use waxed or unwaxed. The choice is completely up to you and each has their own pros and cons, but the main determining factor seems to be tooth spacing.
Those with tightly positioned teeth tend to prefer unwaxed floss. It is thinner than waxed floss and can therefore more easily slip in between tightly packed teeth. The downside to unwaxed floss is its tendency to break and shred.
People with more space between their teeth prefer waxed floss. Since they don’t need to worry about needing a thin floss to get into tight spaces, they can afford to use the thicker, more durable waxed version. Waxed floss also has the added benefit of less friction as it moves across your teeth and gums.
Unwaxed Nylon vs. Polytetrafluoroethylene
That’s right, we said polytetrafluoroethylene, also known as PTFE. Your typical floss (waxed and unwaxed) is made from nylon, whereas PTFE floss is made from the same material as high-tech rain gear like Gore-Tex. When used as a floss, PTFE is great for tightly packed teeth AND is less prone to breakage. For those with tightly packed teeth, the choice is between unwaxed nylon or PTFE, and this comes down to personal preference – some prefer the feel of one over the other.
Waxed Nylon vs. Dental Tape
We discussed the reasons why those with wider spaces between their teeth prefer waxed floss. Dental tape, a broader, flatter alternative to floss, is also great for loosely spaced teeth. Again, the choice here is personal preference with regard to what feels better.
Proper Flossing Technique
Here’s a short video on proper flossing technique in case you need a refresher.
How you floss is very important, so let’s review proper techniques and common mistakes.
DO use an arm’s length of floss. Any shorter and you won’t have enough to cover all of your teeth.
DO wrap 6 inches of floss around your middle fingers and use them to control the movement of the floss.
DO move the floss in an up-and-down motion between where the tooth and gum meet to remove food particles.
DO use a new and clean section of floss each time you move in between two new teeth.
DO floss once a day.
DON’T slide floss lengthwise between your teeth, as this could injure your gums.
DON’T move floss in an overly aggressive manner. Pushing too hard or flossing too fast won’t remove any more bacteria than flossing gently and could harm your gums.
DON’T skip days – make sure you floss every day!
Flossing with Braces
Having braces is no excuse for a lax attitude toward flossing, but having orthodontics does make it more difficult to floss successfully. For those with braces, we recommend using waxed floss with a floss threader. Use the threader to pull the floss between the wire of your braces and your teeth, then floss between your teeth as you would normally. Remove the floss and repeat this process with the next two teeth.
Unfortunately, you’ll have to floss this way for every space between your teeth, top and bottom. But remember, the benefits are worth it – a happy healthy smile once your braces are taken off!
Still have flossing questions? Give us a call at 207-781-5900 – we’re happy to help!
