The importance of mouthguards

(click photo for enlarged print)

Sugar content

Below is a picture of a pepsi bottle. It is exactly 12 fluid ounces, which is the same size as a can of pepsi.


The label clearly states that there is 41 grams of sugar in the product.


This is what 41 grams of sugar looks like in comparison to the bottle. If that still does not gross you out - it is roughly equivalent to 1/4 cup or 6 & 1/2 teaspoonfuls.


And just to compare other commonly consumed sodas...
Minute Maid Orange soda has 48grams of sugar.
Dr. Pepper has 40 grams of sugar.
Coca-cola has 39 grams of sugar.
Monster energy drinks have on average about 27 grams of sugar.
7-up has 39 grams of sugar.
Sprite has 38 grams of sugar.
Mountain Dew has 46 grams of sugar.

Dr. Jason McCargar, DMD at Scottsdale Dental Arts specializes not only in cosmetic dentistry, but in family & general dentistry as well. He says that the sugar is not the only culprit that causes cavities when soda is consumed. Soda also contains acids ( as seen on the label - phosphoric acid) which strip the teeth of their enamel. This in turn causes the teeth to be more susceptible to cavities. Once bacteria settles into the cracks and crevices of the teeth at the site of the cavity it further feeds off sugary products such as soda. Then, a small cavity that is easily fixed with a filling can turn into a large cavity that could potentially require more painful and more difficult treatment such as a root canal. Dr. McCargar stresses that water is best, but sometimes we all like the flavor of a soda. He recommends drinking the soda through a straw, so that it does not wash over the surfaces of the teeth as badly. He also recommends diet soda instead of regular soda to reduce the sugar content.

Thanks Trent Oeltjen!

Batting For Smiles

Difficult economic conditions have had a negative impact on the health of Arizona's children at a time when they are undergoing the most dynamic changes in their physical and mental development. Scottsdale Dental Arts, the Arizona Diamondbacks, and Fry's Food Stores are committed to working together to help raise healthy children by emphasizing the importance of good oral hygiene, preventive dentistry, exercise, and good nutrition to control the onset of disease. This community involvement, called "Batting for Smiles" was a huge success this year.

The winner of the 2009 season of Batting for Smiles, was registered by his parents when they used their Fry's V.I.P card between August 4 and September 11 at any Fry's Food Store's valley location. Dr. McCargar organized to have the winner greeted at his school by Trent Oeltjen - outfielder for the Arizona Diamondbacks - and Baxter - the Arizona Diamondback's Mascot. While Trent was signing autographs and Baxter was having pictures taken, Dr. McCargar spoke with the rest of the class about healthy smiles. Dr. McCargar said that as a family and cosmetic dentist he thinks it is fun and important to be involved with the local community and really enjoyed working with the Arizona Diamondbacks and Fry's for this year's event.

Osteoporosis and your Dentist (part 2)

There are many commercials right now on tv by lawyers warning people about bisphosphonates. Lots of people are worried, but you shouldn't be. The lawyers are trying to say that bisphosphonates (this is a class of medications that includes: Fosamax(alendronate), Actonel, Boniva & is used in treating osteoporosis) can cause osteonecrosis after a dental procedure. This is not true. In fact, the incidence for oral Fosamax, Actonel, or Boniva causing osteonecrosis occurs less than 1 case per 100,000 patients per year. About 94% of the cases of osteonecrosis are in cancer patient who are receiving intravenous (not oral) Zometa or Aredia. These specific IV medications are usually used in treating cancers that have spread to the bone.

Osteonecrosis of the jaw is bone damage that is extremely rare and occurs due to bone injury. The bone does not heal properly after the injury (for example a tooth extraction), and causes severe pain and swelling, then bone death. It is thought that bisphosphonates may increase the incidence of osteonecrosis because they might slow healing and suppress bone turnover after a dental procedure. Clinical trials do not support this with oral bisphosphonates only intravenous. Dr. Jason McCargar, DMD said according to the ADA it is advised that patients notify their dentist if they are taking these medications. He recommends that patients have routine dental exams before starting therapy and again within 3 months after starting therapy, then every 6 months thereafter. Dr. McCargar also stresses that good dental hygiene can decrease the risk of osteonecrosis. He says that brushing and flossing your teeth at least once per day (preferrably twice) can keep your gums and teeth healthy and prevent many dental procedures such as extractions. Dr. McCargar also says that bisphosphonates are very safe medications and the benefits of using them far outweigh the risks. Bisphosphonates can help to make your bones stronger and prevent them from breaking.