Secondhand Smoking Linked to Gum Disease

We've known for years that smoking increases an individual's risk of getting gum disease but a recent study finds that secondhand smoking can also increase one's risk. At the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, researchers found that "exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke for a few hours each day can double a person's risk of severe periodontal disease".

For the full article, please visit this site.

Please think before lighting up,
Dr. Lynda Tran

Times Are Tough...Even for the Tooth Fairy

Even the untouchable Tooth Fairy is feeling the pinch. According to the Original Tooth Fairy Poll (sponsored by Delta Dental Plans Association), the average gift from the Tooth Fairy dropped to $2.10 last year. This is down 42 cents from $2.52 in 2010. “But the good news,” their PR folks hasten to add, “is she’s still visiting nearly 90 percent of homes throughout the United States.”

Some other data points:

• The most common amount left under the pillow by the Tooth Fairy is $1.
• Most children find more money under the pillow for their first lost baby tooth.
• Thirty-five percent of those surveyed allow their children three to four sugary drinks a day. Dentists say that’s too many.

For the original WSJ article, click here. If you want to see the what teeth are going for around the world, check this out.

Sweet dreams,
Dr. Lynda Tran

Dark Beer - It Does a Body Good

It's happy hour...time to take your medicine!

I came across a short article in "Shape" magazine about the awesome benefits of dark beer. It reports that switching from light ale to a heartier stout could help prevent clots and heart attacks. According to a recent analysis published in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, dark beers contain significantly more iron - 121 parts per billion (ppb), comared with 92 ppb for pale brews and 63 ppb for nonalcoholic beers. Iron, of course, is an important building block for red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout the body. As always, drink responsibly!

Here's to the dark side,
Dr. Lynda Tran

Oral Hygiene for Fido

Got Floss? Harlan showing off his pearly whites.

I apologize for the small hiatus, but I'm back! First is a topic that is dear to my heart, PETS! As you may recall, I have a big hunk-of-love named Harlan (he'll be turning 4 in January). I was inspired to write this article when Harlan came up and blind sighted me with kisses! While I welcome them most of the time, this time his breath was not so hot. Down right putrid! Yuck.

It is important to perform regular cleanings for our pets. A few of minutes of brushing a few days a week can help eliminate bad breath and give pets a longer, healthier life. According to our vet (Napa Valley Small Animal Hospital), most dogs and cats develop dental disease by 3 years of age. The sooner the disease is treated, the easier it is for you and your pet. Bad breath isn't the only sign of dental disease however. Check out the other signs/symptoms that you should keep an eye out for:

• Bad Breath
• Sensitivity Around the Mouth
• Loss of Appetite or Difficulty Chewing
• Yellow/Brown Deposits on Teeth
• Bleeding, Inflamed Gums
• Loose or Missing Teeth
• Pawing at the Mouth or Face

And just like us, prevention is key! Here are a few ways to keep your pet's oral health in tip top shape:

• Bring your pet in for regular check-ups
• Brush your pet's teeth a few times a week (your vet can show you!)
• Choose a pet food formulated to remove tartar and plaque 
• Use plaque-reducing treats and toys

Here's another picture of Harlan showing off his tartar-free choppers...

Here's to the ruff life,
Dr. Lynda Tran

High-Speed Blood Drive at Infineon

While most are already stoked about saving lives when donating blood, Infineon Raceway will certainly get your blood pumpin'. Before donating, you'll be able to sit in a "hot lap" with a professional driving instructor. I've driven around this awesome course a dozen times and with its elevation changes and turns...I'm always ready for more. Come out and donate!

• When: Friday, September 9th   1pm - 6pm
• Where: Infineon Raceway (29355 Arnold Dr., Sonoma)
• More Info: Click Here

Race you there,
Dr. Lynda Tran

3 Million Teeth Knocked Out This Year By Sport

According to The National Youth Sports Safety Foundation, 3 million teeth will be lost due to sporting activities this year. For the full article, click here. In the event that a tooth is knocked out, here are the suggestions on how to increase your chance of saving the tooth!

1. Time is of the Essence! You want that tooth to be placed back in the mouth by a dentist within 30 minutes of being dislodged. 
2. Fingers Off the Root! There are key cells on the root that help a dislodged tooth return to its socket. Hold the tooth by the crown instead.
3. Milk Does a Tooth Good! Don't rinse with water or saline or any other liquids. Again, there are important factors on the tooth that you do not want to wipe away. Simply hold the tooth in a cup of milk until the dentist can place it back.

Prevention is key though! Always make sure you wear a mouth guard when playing contact sports!

Until next time,
Dr. Lynda Tran

AirFloss - New Way to Floss

Here's a nice, concise video demonstrating the new Philips Sonicare AirFloss. I am excited to try this product out!

It'll be great for those of us who have trouble or dislike flossing, which there are many (myself included). Even better, patients who have trouble with dexterity can use this product very easily! Now everyone knows what I'll be getting them for Christmas...just kidding. Not really.

Here's to flossing,
Dr. Lynda Tran