Porcelain Veneers by Dr Estler

Smile Like The Stars
Veneers are ultra-thin, custom-made porcelain laminates that are bonded directly to the teeth. They are an option for closing gaps or disguising discolored teeth that do not respond well to whitening procedures. Depending on the procedure, tooth reduction may be necessary.

Call our office today at 281-579-7222 or fill out our easy contact form to schedule an appointment or ask a question about Cosmetic Dentistry treatment.

Dental X-rays remain a valuable tool in detecting oral health problems

Dental X-rays remain a valuable tool in detecting oral health problems

A study published in Cancer, the peer-viewed journal of the American Cancer Society, found that people diagnosed with meningioma, a generally non-cancerous tumor, are more likely to report that they’ve received certain types of dental X-rays in the past. 

There are several important things to understand about this study.

This finding doesn’t mean that dental X-rays cause these tumors; much more research is needed.

·         The results rely on the individuals’ memories of having dental X-rays taken years earlier. The ability to recall information is often imperfect. Therefore, the results of studies that use this design can be unreliable because they are affected by what scientists call “recall bias.” 

·         The study acknowledges that some of the subjects received dental X-rays decades ago when radiation exposure was greater. Radiation doses were higher in the past due to the use of old X-ray technology and slower speed film.

Dental X-rays are a valuable part of detecting oral health problems at an early stage. Many oral diseases can’t be detected with a physical examination alone. Dental X-rays help provide information about a patient’s oral health such as early-stage cavities, gum diseases, infections and some types of tumors. How often dental X-rays should be taken depends on the patient’s oral health condition, age, risk for disease and any signs and symptoms of oral disease that the patient might be experiencing. If you have concerns the ADA encourages you to talk to your dentist, but eliminating X-rays altogether could be detrimental to your oral health.

Source:  ADA American Dental Association

 

Preventive

Texas Preventative Dentistry Dr. Estler and his dental hygienist offer routine dental cleaning, gum disease management, oral cancer screening, decay detection and dental sealants, all in the comfort of his Katy, Texas office. There is a focus on preventing periodontal disease through patient education and adherence to the recommendations of the American Dental Association. • ViziLite Plus - This advanced oral cancer screening exam is performed by our dental hygienist, who is certified in proper screening techniques. Dr. Estler suggests yearly screening for anyone over the age of 18 in order to catch oral cancer early, when successful treatment is more likely. This simple, painless procedure could save your life. Call our office today at 281-579-7222 for an appointment, or fill out our contact form. Someone will get in touch with you to answer your questions or schedule an appointment.

How to Choose a Good Dentist

How to Choose a Good Dentist Dr Carl Estler 281-579-7222

How to Have Pain Free Dentistry

How to Have Pain Free Dentistry

281-579-7222

Dr Carl Estler

The Dental Benefits of Xylitol

The Dental Benefits of Xylitol

Xylitol is a natural sugar alcohol found in many foods and plants.  It is sometimes called “birch sugar” because the primary source of xylitol today is extracted from birch trees.  Xylitol looks and tastes like regular sugar, but it is very different than sugar.

Xylitol has been in use in foods since the 1960’s.  There have been more than 25 years of testing and Xylitol has been proven to benefit the teeth.   Sugarfree gum and candy sweetened with 100% Xylitol have received endorsements from 6 national dental associations.

Tooth decay happens when bacteria in the mouth consume the ordinary sugars we eat.  The bacteria multiply and produce an acid that destroys the enamel and allows the decay to begin.  Xylitol will not break down in the mouth like sugar.  Bacteria cannot use Xylitol as a food source, so they will not be stimulated to multiply and produce acids.  Also, Xylitol raises the pH of the saliva and prevents bacteria from adhering to the teeth.  Saliva protects the teeth by carrying minerals that can reverse early decay.  Eating regular sugar even just twice a day will override the natural defense of the saliva.  But saliva that has Xylitol is more alkaline and this pH actually encourages the minerals in the saliva to move into the damaged areas of the enamel.  Therefore, soft enamel begins to harden again.

Xylitol is most effective in preventing decay when used at least 4 to 5 times daily.  Research is showing that the number of exposures throughout the day is more important than the quantity Xylitol consumed.   If the Xylitol is mixed with other sweeteners, the effectiveness of the Xylitol is diminished.  The easiest way to get the benefits of Xylitol is to chew gum that is sweetened with 100% Xylitol after meals and use a toothpaste containing Xylitol to brush twice a day.  There is also dental floss coated with Xylitol and Sugarfree candy sweetened with 100% Xylitol. 

Here’s a routine that is easy to follow.

1.       Use Xylitol toothpaste, floss and mouthwash upon waking up

2.       After breakfast use Xylitol gum, mints, or candy.

3.       After lunch use Xylitol gum, mints, or candy.

4.       After dinner use Xylitol gum, mints, or candy.

5.       Use Xylitol toothpaste, floss and mouthwash upon going to bed.

There is one caution to Xylitol.  Although it is very safe for children and adults, Xylitol is poisonous to dogs.  If you decide to add Xylitol products to your dental home care, be sure to keep it out of the reach of pets.

If you have any further questions please contact Dr Estler  on 281-579-7222

  or visit us at 910 South Fry Road Katy. Texas 77450