In the news we hear about osteoporosis and bone loss in our body. Indeed this disorder, which affects 28 million Americans, is a health concern as we all get older and live longer. What we hear about less often is the bone loss in your mouth. According to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), osteoporosis also increases risk factors for tooth loss, bone loss and periodontal (gum) disease. Even those without osteoporosis need to be aware of the issues of tooth loss, periodontal disease and its affect on the bone levels. It is important to preserve the oral bone levels we have now so that ideal dental health can be achieved over our lifetime.

Preventing Bone Loss Keeps Your Smile Bright

The bone in your jaw is the actual foundation to your teeth and gums, and therefore essential to having a healthy smile. Decreased levels of bone may lead to insufficient support for teeth, resulting in shifting, loose or mobile teeth. At a certain point these teeth may be unable to be saved and must be extracted. Furthermore, missing teeth or bone loss may have consequences that are more far reaching than the ability to chew and the look of your smile. It can also affect your overall facial appearance as significant bone loss in the mouth may leave a concavity on your face in that area.

Many factors affect oral bone levels. A tooth merely having its root embedded in the bone stimulates the growth of bone and keeps it at an optimal height. If a tooth is extracted the bone may heal at a lower or sunken level and may even continue to recede. If the surrounding gums are affected by periodontal or gum disease, that may eventually contribute to gum tissue and bone loss. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), after age 35 about three out of four adults are affected by some form of gum disease. Periodontitis or advanced gum disease is the number one reason adults lose teeth.

Misconceptions Regarding Tooth Loss

Sometimes misinformation may lead people to make dental choices that negatively affect their oral bone level. Some people seem to be under the impression that if their tooth requires root canal therapy due to an infected or dead pulp, they have a choice of either having the root canal therapy or having the tooth pulled. The two choices have drastically different outcomes for your future dental health. A tooth which has had root canal therapy is still able to stimulate the growth of bone around the root; the result of a tooth extraction can lead to multiple tooth, gum and bone problems.

Another misconception is about the importance of their back teeth or molars. Some may decide they don’t have to take care of the back teeth or won’t miss them if they need to be extracted, as they can’t be seen as much as the front teeth. The molars function as the all-important chewing surfaces of our teeth, therefore absent molars may require a restriction to a softer food diet, which is undesirable to most people. In addition, as mentioned before, the bone in the area where teeth are missing may heal at a sunken level and continue to recede.

A third misconception is an ill-fitting denture can’t be fixed and must be accepted as is. There is a dangerous downward spiral linked to this belief. Maybe someone’s denture is not fitting as well for whatever reason, but they decide not to go back to their dentist to have it addressed. This poorly fitting denture will often accelerate bone loss leading to an even more poorly fitting denture and decreased bone heights.

Advances in Dentistry Help Keep Your Smile Beautiful

Fortunately, advances in restorative dentistry continue to address bone preservation. Dental implants over the past decades have revolutionized dentistry. Years ago restorations for missing teeth were limited because there was no method to anchor a crown or denture. Dental implants are titanium alloy screws that are inserted directly in the bone, allowing an extremely stable foundation on which to place a crown, bridge or denture. The implant stimulates normal bone growth similar to a natural tooth. Keep in mind that although dental implants help preserve bone, they also initially require sufficient bone levels to be able to be placed.

Preserving bone in every area of the mouth is so important that there is now state-of-the-art procedure that should be performed with any tooth extraction to maintain bone levels. If you do need to have a tooth extracted due to a severe tooth fracture or another reason, a “bone graft” can be inserted in the place of the missing tooth. This bone graft may be from various sources such as human or synthetic bone. It allows the bone surrounding the extraction site to heal at the highest position. Otherwise there may be 30 to 40% additional loss with the bone healing in a sunken position. Over time, without any such treatment, the bone will tend to recede away from the gums.

If someone has extensive bone loss but still wants to have implants placed, there are bone replacement surgeries available. Some of these bone regeneration surgeries can be complex, invasive and expensive procedures where bone is obtained from a hip surgery by an orthopedic surgeon then grafted to the jaw bone and left to heal and grow. It is much easier and simpler to prevent bone loss in the first place.

If you have any dental concerns mentioned in this article, such as missing teeth or an ill-fitting denture, discuss them with your restorative dentist on a timely basis. Not doing anything puts you at a disadvantage, as you may miss treatment or preventive opportunities. Natural teeth and implants must be able to have a firm foundation in the bone. By taking steps to preserve the bone levels in your mouth, you are making great strides in preserving your smile for your lifetime.

Dr. Wynn Okuda is an award winning international leader in cosmetic dentistry. He is one of only 280 dentists in the world to be accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). Dr. Okuda turned the dental profession on its head nearly a decade ago , replacing pain, fear, & discomfort with the Dental Day Spa system. His offices for cosmetic, restorative and implant dentistry are located in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Dr. Okuda has been featured in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Reader’s Digest, American Spa, Shape Magazine, Better Homes & Garden, Health & Fitness Sports Magazine, New Woman, and dozens more!

“Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy.” — Thich Nhat Hanh

You’re Beautiful When You Smile – Don’t Worry, Be Happy

I know we’ve all had days where things aren’t going right. Maybe we get a flat tire, or are running behind schedule all day, or forget to do something important. And then someone, maybe a cashier or someone in the elevator, unexpectedly brightens our day with their warm smile…. and the day doesn’t seem as bad. There’s something wonderful about a smile. We all value a smile to say so much more than words. A smile is optimism, hope, strength, warmth, positivity, beautiful. And more.

We show our appreciation of the smile in the celebrities, models, and actors we admire. Stars like Julia Roberts, Tom Cruise, Sandra Bullock, and Brad Pitt have smiles that radiate and light up rooms.

Our appreciation for smiles also carries over in the advertising corporations create. They know the importance of a smile, and want to be associated with it. McDonald’s says “We love to see you smile,” Little Debbie cakes say “Unwrap a smile,” and there’s a car commercial that shows smiles and kindness are contagious.

Your Beautiful Smile Conveys Many Emotions

So are smiles fundamental in our lives? Often my patients hear compliments on their smiles from strangers who will go out of their way to tell them, “What a great smile you have!” This further shows human appreciation for a nice smile. And obviously it’s not just any facial expression that’s appreciated, because I’ve never heard anyone comment to another, “That’s a great frown!” or “What a nice grimace!”

What if we choose not to smile at anyone, ever? Is that so horrible? Do you remember several years ago, a 5-year-old girl by the name of Lauren Deveney of Virginia who couldn’t smile due to a medical condition called Mobius syndrome? She was not able to smile nor blink because she was born without the active nerves needed to make facial expressions. It made national news because we all felt it would be a tragedy if this little girl was unable to show her happiness and pleasure to her family and to the world. And we were relieved when we learned that she could be helped through surgery.

Scientists probably felt relieved, too, as studies have shown that a smile is a two-way communication from yourself. A smile can convey confidence, acceptance, joy, and pleasure to another human. But what’s also true is when we make ourselves smile, we send a message to our brain to be happier, lighthearted. These positive emotions let us feel better about ourselves, and from what I’ve found through examples of my patients, do better in life.

A Beautiful Smile is Essential in Communicating with Others

This non-verbal communication is among the most essential in our daily lives. Did you know that we are able to detect a smile in another human from 300 feet away, which is about the distance of one football field! Hard to believe? Well, even though you may not be able to see broccoli in their teeth, you certainly are able to know a person is smiling from that far distance.

Our smiles do communicate so much. They can say without a word how much confidence we have in ourselves, our acceptance of someone else, our heartfelt appreciation of what others do for us, or our interest in dating someone. It’s such a pinnacle part of communication and extremely hard to think about life without a smile. Just imagine how much greater we’ll be able to perform at our professional lives because of smiling.

Is just any type of smile okay, or are some better than others? Apparently there are 18 different smiles which express emotions, from pure joy to mild amusement to beaming pride. Two smiles in particular look different to us, because of the emotion behind it. A natural, spontaneous, true smile of enjoyment shows from the sparkling of our eyes down to the flashing of our pearly whites. This is because the contraction of the Zygomaticus muscles run from our eyes, across our cheeks, to the corners of our mouths. Thus the old adage, “A sincere smile is visible in the eyes.”

Contrast this with a “conscious smile” or a false smile, where someone may not feel true gladness or joy, but needs to smile anyway. This smile may look similar in the lips and the teeth, but doesn’t quite reach the eyes. It may look slightly asymmetrical or lopsided, as the person is not truly glad to see you and just faking the smile. Perhaps this is the basis for the saying, “Never trust someone with a crooked smile.”

My Challenge to You

So keep this in mind as you smile at friends, co-workers, new acquaintances, prospective clients or dating partners. The warmth of your smile can be perceived by others, whether you think so or not.

I challenge you this month to see how many people you can make smile. Smiles are meant to be shared. Remember, you are given an unlimited supply of smiles, to last a lifetime. If you are unhappy with your smile, don’t despair as current cosmetic dental procedures can help you find even more reasons to smile. So smile beautifully and let’s spread Aloha around throughout the year! You really do have a beautiful smile! And remember, the beauty is not only in your smile, but also in you.

Dr. Wynn Okuda is an award winning international leader in cosmetic dentistry. He is one of only 280 dentists in the world to be accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). Dr. Okuda turned the dental profession on its head nearly a decade ago , replacing pain, fear, & discomfort with the Dental Day Spa system. His offices for cosmetic, restorative and implant dentistry are located in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Dr. Okuda has been featured in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Reader’s Digest, American Spa, Shape Magazine, Better Homes & Garden, Health & Fitness Sports Magazine, New Woman, and dozens more!

Dr. Okuda is the founder of “Give Back A Smile,” a charitable foundation of the AACD which helps survivors of domestic violence throughout the nation to restore their smiles and lives. He has assembled nearly 1,000 cosmetic dentists nationwide to help fight against domestic violence.

Nowadays you hear more and more about cosmetic dentistry on ads and infomercials, as well as health news reports and articles. Still, when I tell people I’m a cosmetic dentist, I sometimes still hear, “what is that” or “what do you do”? Actually I’m not that surprised, as the term “cosmetic dentistry” refers to numerous procedures, correcting many different types of dental problems. However, for those who were once unhappy with the appearance of their teeth, there is no question that cosmetic dentistry served an important purpose in their lives.

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dental procedures refer to procedures which allow a tooth to be restored to its natural looking beauty, or procedures which enhance a smile’s aesthetic appearance. If you have ever had your teeth bleached, or a crown or tooth-colored filling placed in your mouth, you have had a cosmetic dental procedure done. Cosmetic dentistry can give back a youthful smile to someone middle-aged or older, or allow instant correction of bad teeth to a much better end result.

What kinds of dental problems can Cosmetic Dentistry address?

The dental situations cosmetic dentistry can possibly address include:

1. Missing teeth or spaces between teeth.
2. Darkened, yellowed or grey, stained teeth.
3. Crooked teeth or “mismatched” teeth.
4. “Gummy” smiles, where a larger proportion of the gums show when smiling.
5. Too small, too large, too short or too thin teeth.
6. Change silver amalgam fillings to natural appearing, tooth-colored restorations.
7. Replace old crowns that show black lines with non-metal crowns.

Cosmetic dentistry gives people a chance to have a smile that conveys the right messages for their personal and professional life: confidence, strength, happiness, acceptance, friendship. Through a variety of circumstances, people may find themselves not liking their smile. Maybe they got into a fight, a car accident, or fell down. Maybe certain medical conditions, such as being born with dark staining of teeth, or personal situations made it difficult to care for their smile. Maybe over time their teeth naturally yellowed, darkened, or became crooked. These people are given the opportunity to restore their smile to match their overall image, so they don’t feel embarrassed about their appearance.

What kinds of cosmetic dental procedures are there?

Cosmetic dental treatment covers a variety of procedures. To name a few, these include procedures that whiten teeth, correct a “gummy” smile, “straighten” crooked teeth, and fill gaps in between teeth. These procedures use either porcelain or plastic to properly restore teeth cosmetically.

Is Cosmetic Dentistry just for looks?

Some people think that cosmetic dental procedures are for appearance only, and have nothing to do with the ability to bite and chew. These people will be surprised to learn that when cosmetic dentistry is properly done, it incorporates the health and function of the teeth as well. The materials used are incredibly strong. They can withstand normal chewing and last for years and years. Depending on which procedures are performed, cosmetic dentists address the way the biting and chewing surfaces of teeth occlude or come together.

How long do cosmetic dental procedures take?

The length of time for a patient’s cosmetic dental treatment depends on the type of procedure or procedures required. In other words, every patient is unique. For some patients, cosmetic dental treatment can be completed in one appointment. For others, preliminary work may have to be done first before procedures can be started. Each dental procedure itself also takes different amounts of time. For example, a tooth-colored restoration not needing to be processed by a laboratory can be completed in one appointment. Bleaching teeth (in-office), on average, may take about one to two sessions. However, the majority of cosmetic dental problems can be corrected in as little as two visits.

Can Cosmetic Dentistry alone help my dental situation?

Sometimes other dental specialists must first treat a patient before the cosmetic dentist can begin. Examples of such cases may be:

• Patients who first require orthodontics (braces) to “move” teeth.
• Gum or bone surgery to create a more normal gum appearance.
• Implant surgery to properly restore a specific dental problem. (Implants are titanium screws that are surgically placed in the bone of either the upper or lower jaw, on which a tooth-colored crown or bridge is placed.)

If they align with their strengths, the best cosmetic dentists may handle some of these dental treatments in-house. And other times they’ll partner with other dental specialists and refer out for that part of the restorative work.

What changes have you seen with your Cosmetic Dentistry patients?

One of the most rewarding part of cosmetic dentistry for me is the positive changes I’ve seen patients experience in their lives. The catalyst is the enhanced smile, but the smile becomes such a part of them that it affects their self-image.

I mean let’s face it, after a top cosmetic dentist is done working their artistry, the patient will hear endless compliments, which leads to more smiling, which in turn leads to a more friendly appearance. All that leads to the patient being a happier person.

This in turn affects how the patient views their personal and professional life, overall appearance, career, relationships and even life itself. The emotional and psychological changes are amazing.

Most people who have lived with their problem dental situation for years don’t realize how their smile and their life can change more positively when it is corrected.

Cosmetic dentistry covers a wide-range of procedures and can address a multitude of dental situations. If you have ever wondered what can be done about your smile or teeth, talk to a top cosmetic dentist about your concerns. We’d be happy to arrange a Hawaiian Smile Vacation for you! :)

Dr. Wynn Okuda is an award winning international leader in cosmetic dentistry. He is one of only 280 dentists in the world to be accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). Dr. Okuda turned the dental profession on its head nearly a decade ago , replacing pain, fear, & discomfort with the Dental Day Spa system. His offices for cosmetic, restorative and implant dentistry are located in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Dr. Okuda has been featured in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Reader’s Digest, American Spa, Shape Magazine, Better Homes & Garden, Health & Fitness Sports Magazine, New Woman, and dozens more!

Dr. Okuda is the founder of “Give Back a Smile”, a charitable foundation of the AACD which helps survivors of domestic violence throughout the nation to restore their smiles and lives. He has assembled nearly 1,000 cosmetic dentists nationwide to help fight against domestic violence.

Does this sound familiar? Are you living with a broken, sore tooth, and tell yourself you’ll call the dentist only when you can no longer tolerate the pain? Or have you told yourself you’ll make an appointment when work is less busy, but that was one year ago? Or do you become tense and anxious with the mere thought of stepping into a dental office? If you identify with these examples, fear (phobia) or dental anxiety may be affecting your ability to achieve optimal dental and overall health. It may also keep you from achieving your smile makeover.

Talk to Your Cosmetic Dentist if You Have Dental Fears

Before you start thinking negative thoughts, it is essential to keep in mind the positive aspects of your dental treatment. Sometimes when you step out of your comfort zone, it’s easy to want to totally avoid an uneasy situation. Every step you take towards your goal to better dental health will benefit you and your quality of life. In overcoming dental anxiety, be proud of every achievement you gain in pursuit of your goal.

Why is it that some people have strong phobias or anxieties and others do not? For many people, phobias are linked to childhood incidents. Children may experience a fearful situation, such as almost drowning, where their “fight-or-flight” survival responses are triggered. Fight or flight reactions occur when a rush of adrenaline causes rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, cold sweat and other symptoms.

Many children may “outgrow” these fears as they have more positive encounters with swimming. However, some may always associate the ocean with this survival panic. In addition, there are studies that suggest learned behavior from other family members and genetics may also contribute to enhancing a person’s phobias.

Why is it important for people with a fear of the dentist to not avoid treatment? Unfortunately, if there are dental problems, neglect and time will increase its severity, decrease treatment options, and be more expensive to fix later. If cavities are left untreated, the decay may continue deeper into the tooth, leading to possible root canals, infections or possibly even tooth loss. Furthermore, periodontitis or gum disease, can lead to tooth and/or bone loss if left untreated.

Your dental appointment is made up of many different sounds, sights, smells, tastes, and touch. For someone who is dental phobic, anxiety may heighten their sensitivity to these sensations. If the patient’s perception is that the situation is out of their control, the patient may have the desire to leave their appointment and not come back.

Some Suggestions to Help You Feel More Comfortable So You Can Get that Beautiful Smile

To avoid this unwanted outcome, be sure to talk to your dentist and his or her staff about your special needs. Take control of your dental appointment. If you don’t tell them about your concerns, they will assume you are comfortable during your appointment. If knowing what the dentist is doing makes you feel more at ease, let the dentist know. For example, talking you through a dental procedure may make your appointment much easier.

During the dental procedure, if you need a quick break, work out a code with the dentist, such as raising your hand. This way you won’t feel helpless once the dental procedure starts. Also, if you want to communicate during your appointment, but are unable to speak, ask for a paper and a pen at the beginning of your appointment. This way you will still be able to relay your immediate concerns.

Be aware of what contributes to your stress before your appointment and take the necessary steps to minimize it. (1) Avoid caffeine on the day of your appointment. Because caffeine is a stimulant, it may cause you to feel anxious and jittery. This may contribute to a stressful appointment. (2) Allow extra time to get to your appointment. No one enjoys rushing through traffic when running late. Rushing to your appointment will increase blood pressure, which will then increase your stress level. (3) Take something to do or read while you wait. This will let you make good use of your time, the way you choose to, instead of concentrating on waiting for the appointment.

Everyone is unique. Something in the dentist’s office may bother one person, and totally not concern another. So take a moment before your appointment and ask yourself: What part of your dental appointments really bothers you? If it is the sound of the drill, bring ear plugs or a Walkman radio/tape player to your appointment to help drown it out. If it is the anesthesia shot that bothers you, remember that today dentists are knowledgeable of methods to administer “pain-free” shots. Many times a “topical” anesthesia is placed at the injection site using a cotton swab prior to the shot being given. If you don’t like to see the needle, make you sure tell the dentist!

Establishing good rapport with your dental professionals will assure that you not only receive timely dental treatment, but also do so in comfort. Don’t worry about what others will think about your special needs. You should feel proud of yourself for taking steps toward your goals of optimal dental health. Be proud of taking risks, challenging yourself, and achieving goals. Because in the end, you and your health are truly the ones that will benefit.

Dr. Wynn Okuda is an award winning international leader in cosmetic dentistry. He is one of only 280 dentists in the world to be accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). Dr. Okuda turned the dental profession on its head nearly a decade ago, replacing pain, fear, & discomfort with the Dental Day Spa system. His offices for cosmetic, restorative and implant dentistry are located in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Dr. Okuda has been featured in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Reader’s Digest, American Spa, Shape Magazine, Better Homes & Garden, Health & Fitness Sports Magazine, New Woman, and dozens more!

Dr. Okuda is the founder of “Give Back A Smile,” a charitable foundation of the AACD which helps survivors of domestic violence throughout the nation to restore their smiles and lives. He has assembled nearly 1,000 cosmetic dentists nationwide to help fight against domestic violence.

Okay, don’t turn the page just yet. It may not be easy to listen to health information on cancer. Sometimes it makes people so uncomfortable that they completely tune out what’s important. An article on oral cancer is not meant to scare you or make you paranoid. I want to help you save that beautiful smile. Rather I hope this article can give you essential information on prevention and early detection of oral and oropharyngeal cancer for yourself, family or friends.

The term “oral cancer” refers to cancers that begin in the oral cavity, which includes the lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, floor and roof of the mouth. The term “oropharyngeal cancer” refers to cancers that start in the throat, next to your mouth. The good news, according to the American Cancer Society, is that new cases of oral and oropharyngeal cancers (together referred to as oral cancer in this article) have been decreasing over the past 20 years. The death rate for this disease has also been on the decline over the past 25 years. Unfortunately, the number of affected people is still significant. In 2005 alone there were an estimated 29,000 new cases of oral cancer diagnosed, while an estimated 7,000 people died of this disease.

Therefore, it is important to be aware of what may contribute to these cancers, how to prevent it, and to know the signs and symptoms. Two of the main risk factors for oral cancer are tobacco and alcohol use. Tobacco use takes the form of smoking and using chewing tobacco. The American Cancer Society cites that about 90% of people with oral cancer use tobacco, and the risk increases with amount or duration of use. About 75% of people with these cancers drink considerable amounts of alcohol. People who use tobacco or alcohol alone are six times more likely to contract oral cancers. The combined use of the two leads to the highest severity in risk factors.

Tell Your Dentist or Cosmetic Dentist if You Have Any of These Symptoms

The American Dental Association adds that oral cancer is more likely to occur in those over 40 years old, and those who are male. Interestingly, more than 25% of oral cancers occur in people who do not smoke and have no other risk factors. So everyone can benefit from this information. In addition, the risk of contracting lip cancer increases with prolonged exposure to the sun.

The American Cancer Society states the signs and symptoms to look for are:

• Sore in the mouth that does not heal (most common symptom)
• Pain in the mouth that doesn’t go away (also very common)
• A persistent lump or thickening in the cheek
• A persistent white or red patch on the gums, tongue, tonsil or lining of the mouth
• A sore throat or a feeling that something is caught in the throat that doesn’t go away
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing
• Difficulty moving the jaw or tongue
• Numbness of the tongue or other area of the mouth
• Swelling of the jaw that causes dentures to fit poorly or become uncomfortable
• Loosening of the teeth or pain around the teeth or jaw
• Voice changes
• A lump or mass in the neck
• Weight loss
• Persistent bad breath

Obviously some of these symptoms are more general and may be caused by something unrelated to oral cancer. Know what’s normal for you, then when an unusual situation arises you’ll be able to detect it and discuss it historically with your dentist or physician.

At your periodic dental examination appointment, your dentist will do an oral cancer exam of your entire mouth. This is an ideal time to talk to your dentist about your risk factors for oral cancer and other concerns. In addition, if you want to minimize or eliminate risk factors you have for oral cancer, there are many sources of information in your area or on the Internet.

Quit Smoking and Retain Your Beautiful Smile

For example, if you want to quit smoking, you can start by asking your physician or dentist for their recommendations. There are also resources online or in our community, such as the Hawaii Tobacco Quitline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW (784-8669) or www.CallitQuitsHawaii.org (you may have seen their ads on television). The Quitline can provide free information and referrals, discuss therapies (e.g. nicotine patch), and link callers with support services. For those who do not have insurance to cover the nicotine patch or other therapies, they may qualify to participate in a program that provides free therapies to quit smoking.

In so many ways our oral health affects our overall health, such as by nutritional intake or oral diseases. It’s always important to be aware of how we can maintain our health and take strides to improve it, or prevent disease. (For more information on oral cancer you can visit the American Dental Association website at www.ada.org, or the American Cancer Society website at www.cancer.org.)

Dr. Wynn Okuda is an award winning international leader in cosmetic dentistry. He is one of only 280 dentists in the world to be accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). Dr. Okuda turned the dental profession on its head nearly a decade ago, replacing pain, fear, & discomfort with the Dental Day Spa system. His offices for cosmetic, restorative and implant dentistry are located in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Dr. Okuda has been featured in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Reader’s Digest, American Spa, Shape Magazine, Better Homes & Garden, Health & Fitness Sports Magazine, New Woman, and dozens more!

Dr. Okuda is the founder of “Give Back A Smile,” a charitable foundation of the AACD which helps survivors of domestic violence throughout the nation to restore their smiles and lives. He has assembled nearly 1,000 cosmetic dentists nationwide to help fight against domestic violence.

When you go to see your physician or cosmetic dentist, it’s quite common to be asked which medications you are taking. I’m sure you’re used to writing down the prescription or other over-the-counter medications you regularly take. Did you know that you should also inform your physician or dentist about the herbal supplements you are taking? Many people feel that herbal supplements are as safe and non-threatening as a Flintstone Vitamin. However, especially if you are going to have surgery or another invasive procedure performed or if you take prescription medications, it’s important to tell your physician or dentist about them.

Herbal supplements include Echinacea, which people may take to prevent colds, Black Cohosh for post-menopausal symptoms, Feverfew to prevent migraines, Saw Palmetto for prostate health, Garlic for lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, Ginkgo for improving memory, St. John’s Wort for depression and so many more.

Why Tell Your Cosmetic Dentist?

Why is it that many patients do not disclose their taking herbal supplements? Because of the relative unproven effectiveness of herbal supplements compared with prescription or over-the-counter medications, some patients think their health professional may voice disapproval or question their actions. Other patients may think these supplements would not cause any harm nor affect their body like medications would. Still others may only take supplements occasionally, such as when they may be vulnerable to catching a cold.

Regardless of your perceptions, it’s important to inform your physician or dentist about these herbal supplements, and their dosage and frequency, for your optimal health. You may need to stop taking certain supplements from one to three weeks before surgery. For dental treatment, procedures include implant, oral and gum surgeries.

Some Herbals Don’t Mix Well with Cosmetic Surgery

According to the Mayo Clinic, these common herbal supplements can interfere with surgery:

Danshen – May cause bleeding.
Dong Quai – May cause bleeding.
Echinacea – May interfere with immune functioning, may alter effectiveness of immunosuppressant drugs given after transplant surgery.
Ephedra (ma huang) – May cause abnormal heartbeat, may cause extreme high blood pressure and coma if combined with certain anti-depressants and anesthesia.
Feverfew – May cause bleeding.
Garlic – May cause bleeding, may interfere with normal blood clotting.
Ginger – May cause bleeding.
Ginkgo – May cause bleeding.
Ginseng – May cause bleeding, may cause rapid heartbeat, may cause high blood pressure.
Goldenseal – May cause or worsen high blood pressure.
Kava – May increase sedative effects of anesthesia.
Licorice – May increase blood pressure.
Senna – May cause electrolyte imbalance.
St. John’s Wort – May increase or decrease the effects of some drugs used during and after surgery.
Valerian – May interfere with the effects of anesthesia.

The Mayo Clinic also recommends not mixing herbal supplements with prescription and over-the-counter medication. They advise caution in taking herbal supplements if any of the following types of medications are being used: Blood pressure medications, blood thinners (anti-coagulants, anti-platelet agents, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – NSAIDs – such as aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen), diabetes medications, drugs that affect the liver, heart medications, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).

In addition, the Mayo Clinic lists herbal supplements that may cause harmful side effects if used with certain medications: Black Cohosh, Dong Quai, Ephedra, Feverfew, Garlic, Ginkgo, Ginseng, Goldenseal, Kava, Milk Thistle, Scotch Broom, St. John’s Wort.

Keep in mind that even though herbal supplements are labeled “natural,” they do have active ingredients that have the potential to cause complications after surgery or affect anesthesia, and may interact with other medications. Be sure to keep your health professional informed of which herbal supplements you take.

Dr. Wynn Okuda is an award winning international leader in cosmetic dentistry. He is one of only 280 dentists in the world to be accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). Dr. Okuda turned the dental profession on its head nearly a decade ago, replacing pain, fear, & discomfort with the Dental Day Spa system. His offices for cosmetic, restorative and implant dentistry are located in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Dr. Okuda has been featured in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Reader’s Digest, American Spa, Shape Magazine, Better Homes & Garden, Health & Fitness Sports Magazine, New Woman, and dozens more!

Dr. Okuda is the founder of “Give Back A Smile,” a charitable foundation of the AACD which helps survivors of domestic violence throughout the nation to restore their smiles and lives. He has assembled nearly 1,000 cosmetic dentists nationwide to help fight against domestic violence.

Imagine walking through elegant French doors to find Impressionistic oil paintings, soothing music, calming colors, neo-Victorian design, open spaces, relaxing smells, beautiful floral arrangements, healing massages, an intriguing skydome, a quenching refreshment center, and entertaining movies.

If you had to guess, where would you say you were? A resort? An art gallery? A spa? How about a dental office? What?…how can that be?

Introducing the Dental Day Spa

You probably never thought you’d hear “Dental” and “Spa” in the same sentence unless it was, “I’d rather be at a spa than be at a dental appointment.” But that’s the past. Welcome to the 21st Century, where the spa IS the dental office, and where the boundaries of a spa and dental appointment become blurred.

I would like to hope the Dental Day Spa concept will be the future of dentistry. Having been a child who feared and hated dental appointments, I’ve always pursued solutions throughout my dental career that would make visits to the dentist more comfortable and relaxing. I already knew how things such as building trust, having a good relationship and providing effective communication formed the foundation of a great dental appointment for anxious patients. The next step was to bring together a superior product and Five-Star Service. But I suspected there was more that could be done.

It was while my dental practice was located in a previous office that I became aware of and researched the effects of environment and design on the anxious dental patient. I learned that such aspects as open spaces or wider corridors allowed people to feel at ease, although it may be subconscious to them. In contrast, narrow hallways and tighter spaces may lead to feelings of claustrophobia, being threatened or trapped. In addition, sounds such as falling water or soothing music have a calming effect. Color and pleasing sights also contribute to overall positive emotions. With the assistance of talented and experienced local architect Stan Hesse, the blending of high design and functionality resulted in the innovative Dental Day Spa.

Beautiful Smile Created in Beautiful Surroundings

If a dental office were created that didn’t look like a dental office, perhaps it could help to trick your mind that you were at a spa or resort and not seeing the dentist. The calming atmosphere would create a unique experience that was pleasing to the senses.

I took this concept even further by offering pampering services, such as full body massages and reflexology, which are definitely new to the dental office. The concept of melding product or service with atmosphere and emotion is not new. Starbucks is a prime example of this. Starbucks started in Seattle, Washington as a small coffee shop and retail outlet. It took an outsider who was inspired by coffee shops in Italy to marry a cup of coffee with conversation, comfort and community. The owners didn’t want to change their original idea. But progressive thinking prevailed, and now no matter where you go in the world, even in Japan, Singapore, and the Austin Powers movies, Starbucks is there bringing people together with regular, decaf or anyway you want it.

Why some people have phobias is usually a result of many factors, such as childhood experiences, reinforcement of fear by parents and the media, and ongoing experiences they feel are insensitive to their needs. Certain phobias, like the fear of heights or spiders, can be voluntarily avoided throughout one’s lifetime. But voluntarily avoiding dental care can lead to unfortunate consequences.

Keep Your Beautiful Smile by Keeping Your Dental Appointments

There are quite a few patients that completely avoid dental care because of fear and extreme anxiety. With environments and services changing to meet their concerns, they now have fewer reasons to avoid the dentist. They can finally find a dental office where they can feel comfortable and at home.

The main goal of helping people to have more comfortable, positive dental appointments is to assure optimal dental health for them now and through the years. If someone feels at ease about visiting the dental office, they will be more likely to stay current on their dental cleanings, examinations, and treatment. This is essential, as it is at these timely, regular visits that preventive measures for conditions such as gum disease (periodontitis)  can be taken, and concerns addressed early. The number one cause of tooth loss in older adults is advanced periodontitis, so staying up-to-date with preventive appointments will help keep teeth and smiles healthy for a lifetime.

Dr. Wynn Okuda is an award winning international leader in cosmetic dentistry. He is one of only 280 dentists in the world to be accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). Dr. Okuda turned the dental profession on its head nearly a decade ago, replacing pain, fear, & discomfort with the Dental Day Spa system. His offices for cosmetic, restorative and implant dentistry are located in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Dr. Okuda has been featured in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Reader’s Digest, American Spa, Shape Magazine, Better Homes & Garden, Health & Fitness Sports Magazine, New Woman, and dozens more!

Dr. Okuda is the founder of “Give Back A Smile,” a charitable foundation of the AACD which helps survivors of domestic violence throughout the nation to restore their smiles and lives. He has assembled nearly 1,000 cosmetic dentists nationwide to help fight against domestic violence.

You know that saying, “A picture is worth a thousand words”? It’s true, isn’t it? Someone can tell you something, and you may or may not believe it. But when you actually see it for yourself, you have substantial information to judge for yourself, which is totally different. You can see, know and understand. There are several types of hi-tech dental equipment that allow both the dentist and patient to look together at a photo to see either what is or what it can be.

The Cosmetic Imager can show you photos of a simulated smile and the Intraoral Camera can show you photos of what’s happening in your mouth. These are two great tools in planning your smile makeover.

Cosmetic Imager – Plan that Bright New Smile!

The Cosmetic Imager is a computer system that shows you what you could look like if your current smile is replaced with a smile enhanced by cosmetic dentistry. First, a photo is taken of your face then placed on a computer screen. Next, crooked teeth are straightened, short square teeth are made longer, stained or yellow teeth are brightened – all without needing to even open your mouth. The final result is a simulated photo of what your smile would be like with an enhanced smile. You’re then able to discuss further your new smile with your cosmetic dentist, and give feedback on the smile they envision for you.

I suppose the program works similarly to the computer program which lets you pick different hairstyles and hair color to try, without having to clip one strand. Some people may be able to imagine what they would look like with a different hairstyle or a new smile. But some people need a little visual assistance, looking at themselves in a third person, objective viewing, to feel more sure of the overall effect.

But a word of caution: Because of computer technology being what it is, I know many of you have the ability to cut out a celebrity’s smile from a photo, paste it on your face, then print out a photo of you with that pseudo smile. Just because you can create that photo doesn’t mean that’s the best smile that truly enhances your features. There are various subtle and overt aspects that make up a person’s smile. Everything from face shape and bone structure, to lips and the way the muscles pull up your smile, and then there’s teeth shape, size, color and proportion. What looks dazzling on Julia Roberts or charismatic on Tom Cruise may look disproportionate on you. Everyone’s smile is and should be unique.

But the photo of a celebrity (or anyone) whose smile you like can serve one main purpose. It can be a good starting point for analyzing your own smile. For some reason you are attracted to that smile. Think about what you like about that person’s smile, and think about what you don’t like about your smile. Do you like the way their smile completely fills their smile zone (what’s revealed when the lips are pulled back in a natural smile)? Maybe you like the shapes of their teeth, whether elegant or sporty or masculine.

Sorry, if it’s the dimples or lip shape you like I have to be honest, a cosmetic dentist would then have limited solutions. However, armed with this analysis of your smile and what you want is a great starting point when you first step into your dentist’s office.

Intraoral Camera – Helps You Keep Your Smile Bright

The Intraoral Camera System also has a camera and computer program but it takes actual photos within your mouth. These photos give patients a rare, clear and up-close look into their mouth, of as small an area as a few teeth. Normally, you’d have to look at your teeth through a mirror or two, and because of the small size, it’s difficult to see fine details or the back areas very clearly. These photos help you to understand situations that may be happening within your mouth, such as a broken or fractured tooth or restoration.

For example, let’s say the hygienist says you need to floss more carefully on the backsides of your lower front teeth. It’s one thing to imagine what it looks like, and the symptoms you’re trying to eliminate. But let’s say she shows you a photo of the redness and puffiness of that area. Then it’s clear to see the effect of not flossing conscientiously, and the signs of gum disease you’re wanting to avoid.

In addition, the intraoral photos assist in dental claims approval, as it gives the dental insurance company more information on which to base their decision. The dental office also uses these photos as part of the comprehensive record keeping of your dental health.

The Cosmetic Imager and the Intraoral Camera lead to dental appointments that provide more information and improve communication. You’re able to more clearly comprehend a situation, and therefore be able to ask targeted, meaningful questions, and thereby make better decisions for yourself. In the big picture that means optimal dental health and a more positive experience for patients, which is always something to smile about.

Dr. Wynn Okuda is an award winning international leader in cosmetic dentistry. He is one of only 280 dentists in the world to be accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). Dr. Okuda turned the dental profession on its head nearly a decade ago, replacing pain, fear, & discomfort with the Dental Day Spa system. His offices for cosmetic, restorative and implant dentistry are located in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Dr. Okuda has been featured in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Reader’s Digest, American Spa, Shape Magazine, Better Homes & Garden, Health & Fitness Sports Magazine, New Woman, and dozens more!

Dr. Okuda is the founder of “Give Back A Smile,” a charitable foundation of the AACD which helps survivors of domestic violence throughout the nation to restore their smiles and lives. He has assembled nearly 1,000 cosmetic dentists nationwide to help fight against domestic violence.

Wouldn’t it be great if, when you needed a body part or organ, you just go to the doctor to grow it? Does that sound like a show on the Sci-Fi channel? Well, it’s science non-fiction when it comes to growing bone in your jaw and elsewhere. And for patients with otherwise limited options in having dental implants and the ability to chew, it may seem too good to be true.

What is Bone Grafting? Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that adds bone to a deficient site, where it will fuse to the existing bone over time. This added bone may either be autograft (a self donation from the patient), allograft (cadaver bone from a bone bank) or synthetic (from a man-made material). Generally the grafting material tends to be a mixture of these types, as dictated by each patient’s specific needs. The time it takes for the bone to fuse may be 4 – 12 months, depending on the patient’s age, medical and dental health, and oral care and lifestyle habits.

Why Might Bone Grafting Be Needed to Create Beautiful Smiles?

Bone has a tendency to resorb or decrease where there is a missing tooth, when it is affected by disease such as periodontitis, or just with age. When teeth are present they stimulate bone growth, so the bone can stay at a healthy level. However, if teeth are missing, there is no stimulation present, so the bone level will drop.

In the case of periodontitis, or advanced gum disease, the infected and irritated gums after time will start to cause the bone to resorb or “melt” away from the tooth. The bone will continue to do this until the point where the tooth is mobile and eventually lost. Without the proper support of bone around each tooth, not only does this offset the health and function of your teeth, but it also affects the appearance of your smile. The defects that can result due to bone loss can cause a smile to look deformed. With bone correction prior to a “smile restoration” a natural appearance can be regained.

When is it performed? When using dental implants to replace missing teeth, bone grafting needs to be performed prior to implant placement to augment insufficient bone. This is an essential procedure to increase the success of any dental implant. There are various grafting procedures which can build up the jaw bone in height, width or thickness as necessary. Also, if the lack of bone affects the appearance of your smile, a bone graft can allow a more esthetic, natural end result. Finally, when a tooth needs to be extracted a bone graft is added to prevent future bone loss at the site.

Can Anyone Have This Type of Smile Makeover?

Who is a candidate? Not everyone is an ideal candidate for bone grafting. For example, one needs to be in overall good health and dental health, to ensure the best results. Furthermore, a bone graft can only add on a limited amount of bone. For patients who have been undergoing bone loss for years, it may not be possible to add what is sufficient for implant or esthetic needs. However, to find out if bone grafting can benefit you, ask your dentist.

Beyond the obvious function of bone for tooth support, your underlying bone plays a multitude of roles in preserving your natural smile for a lifetime. Continued research in dental and medical technology has allowed patients to take advantage of bone grafting techniques, for a better quality of life.

Dr. Wynn Okuda is an award winning international leader in cosmetic dentistry. He is one of only 280 dentists in the world to be accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Okuda turned the dental profession on it’s head nearly a decade ago , replacing pain, fear, & discomfort with the Dental Day Spa system. His offices for cosmetic, restorative and implant dentistry are located in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Dr. Okuda has been featured in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Reader’s Digest, American Spa, Shape Magazine, Better Homes & Garden, Health & Fitness Sports Magazine, New Woman, and dozens more!

Dr. Okuda is the founder of “Give Back a Smile”, a charitable foundation of the A.A.C.D. which helps survivors of domestic violence throughout the nation to restore their smiles and lives. He has assembled nearly 1,000 cosmetic dentists nationwide to help fight against domestic violence.

Esthetic dental implants have been a part of restorative and cosmetic dental procedures for over 35 years. Through the years, the dental profession has seen incredible progress in all aspects of implants, from placement techniques to implant materials to longevity and esthetic outcome. Originally invented in Sweden, dental implants are made of ultra-strong titanium alloy and look like a large screw.

Dental implants are used to replace a single tooth, several teeth or a whole arch of teeth. Implants not only stabilize the restoration that sits on it, but also stimulates bone growth around the implant. If a tooth is missing, the gums and bone it was attached to are no longer stimulated by the blood supply and activity of that tooth. Therefore, with the tooth gone, the surrounding bone and gums may resorb or melt away. Furthermore, the opposing tooth (on the opposite jaw) no longer has something to bite against, and may grow towards the missing tooth’s space.

Technology Makes it Easier to Get a Smile Makeover

For implant placement, the diagnostic information provided by the two-dimensional x-ray or radiograph used is limited. Critical questions which need to be answered prior to surgery include if there was enough bone level to place an implant, the location an implant could be placed, positions of the sinuses, location of nerves and other important aspects. More recently, the CT or computed tomography scan tremendously improves the diagnostic abilities of the implant dentist by providing more detailed information needed not only during the initial diagnostic phases, but also during the actual surgery.

CT scans assist in lowering risks of irreversible nerve damage and developing predictable success in attaining the best outcome for most situations. This is especially true if there is question if adequate bone is present in a site with a missing tooth or teeth.

Implants are placed during a surgical procedure, directly in the jawbone. The number of implants required depends on each person’s individual situation. The surgical site with the implants are then left (under the gums) to allow the bone to grow around the implant and “osseo-integrate”. Four to six months after the first surgery, the implant is uncovered from under the gums. An “abutment” or implant post is then connected to it, and the gums are given time to heal around this abutment. About a month later, a final tooth restoration is custom-made to fit onto the abutment. This final restoration could be a crown, bridge or denture. Thanks to advances in cosmetic dental technology in materials, the final restorations look more natural.

A second factor in natural-looking restorations has to do with periodontal (gum) esthetics. In the placement of a dental implant, the gums must first be prepared in achieving an optimal normal appearance. When the gums are not esthetically sculpted, it is difficult to attain a natural result. Gum sculpting is a cosmetic dental procedure that maximizes the natural appearance around a restored implant tooth.

Implants can ensure a healthy diet is maintained. Before implants, people with dentures (a full arch of false, removable teeth) or partials (several false, removable teeth) had no options when they were unable to get a firm, strong bite on food. Nutrition and overall health is highly dependent on a person’s ability to chew a variety of foods. A person may shy away from certain foods either because certain teeth are missing, their teeth don’t meet each other (occlude) properly, or there is not enough force due to slippage of a denture. For example, the inability to chew foods with a firmer consistency may lead a person to eat more unhealthy foods like french fries instead of fresh vegetables. It is challenging to eat a balanced diet of only softer foods.

Most Patients are Pain Free Once They’ve Healed From Cosmetic Surgery

There seems to be a common misconception that implants will continually hurt as long as they are in. The fact is that this is not the case if the implant is properly placed and heals correctly. Naturally, there is some discomfort immediately after surgery. However, advancements in medication for dentistry can address the pain. As the site quickly heals, post surgical pain subsides.

How long a implant can last is reliant on many factors. Although no restoration in dentistry is guaranteed to last forever, dental implants could last ten to fifteen years, or more, depending on how well the implant is cared for professionally and at home.

Dental implants may sound too good to be true, but unfortunately not everyone is a good candidate for implants. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, each patient must: (1) Have a comprehensive exam to determine if they are a candidate, (2) Be in good health, (3) Have healthy gums, (4) Have adequate bone structure, (5) Have excellent oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing, (6) Maintain regular dental visits.

We live in such a great era of cosmetic dentistry where people are able to benefit incredibly from technology in implant dentistry. Combining cosmetic dental procedures with implant dentistry allow people to have implants in the most visible area of their smile and have it look natural. Implants offer bone and gum stimulation, and stability to restorations which lets people eat to their heart’s desire. Although there is no exact replacement to a healthy, natural tooth, dental implants that are assisted with the latest in CT scans allow dental professionals to give their patients one more reason to smile.

Dr. Wynn Okuda is an award winning international leader in cosmetic dentistry. He is one of only 280 dentists in the world to be accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Okuda turned the dental profession on it’s head nearly a decade ago , replacing pain, fear, & discomfort with the Dental Day Spa system. His offices for cosmetic, restorative and implant dentistry are located in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Dr. Okuda has been featured in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Reader’s Digest, American Spa, Shape Magazine, Better Homes & Garden, Health & Fitness Sports Magazine, New Woman, and dozens more!

Dr. Okuda is the founder of “Give Back a Smile”, a charitable foundation of the A.A.C.D. which helps survivors of domestic violence throughout the nation to restore their smiles and lives. He has assembled nearly 1,000 cosmetic dentists nationwide to help fight against domestic violence.