What causes canker sores?

Canker sores, also called aphthous ulcers, are small, shallow lesions that develop on the soft tissues inside the mouth in areas like the lip, tongue, cheek, or at the base of the gums. Canker sores are usually white or yellow and are often surrounded by red, inflamed soft tissue. Canker sores can be painful, and interfere with eating. In rare or severe cases of canker sores, individuals could experience fever, physical fatigue, or swollen lymph nodes.

Here Comes Peter Cotton Tail…

Please don't let him take your kids down the cavity trail! It is highly likely that just behind Halloween and Valentine's Day, Easter hops right into third place when it comes to the sweet treat danger zone.

Could brushing your teeth in the dark help you sleep?

A neuroscientist recently made an interesting claim: that brushing our teeth in the dark could lead to better sleep. While this in itself is not exactly a dental issue, it brings up important questions about sleep quality and its effect on our overall health - yes, including our dental health.

According to a recent article from The Telegraph, a UK-based news source, an Oxford University professor claimed that bright bathroom lights can stimulate the body and interrupt our natural circadian rhythm.

The Best Brush for You - Old School or High Tech?

We’ve come a long way since the Middle Ages, when keeping your teeth clean meant gnawing on a twig of sweet wood.  There’s such a wide range of toothbrush styles available today, you may have questions about which ones are right for you or your children.

Not Just Soda - Other Surprisingly Sugary Drinks

As we discussed in a recent post, sweetened drinks like soda can do significant damage to your teeth; as the sugar mixes with bacteria in your mouth and leads to acid erosion and the potential for decay.  You may think switching to fruit juices or other seemingly healthier beverages may be the solution, but you’ll likely be shocked to know just how much sugar some of these alternatives contain. 

Sugary Drinks and Your Teeth

Most of us are aware of what sugar-laden beverages can do to our waistline, but did you know they can be seriously damaging to your teeth?

The Importance of Oral Cancer Screening

According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, nearly 8,000 deaths a year are caused by cancer of the mouth and pharynx, the cavity behind the nose and mouth that connects to the esophagus. Tragically, many of these deaths could be prevented with a simple, painless 5 minute screening by a dentist.

Best Superfoods for Dental Health

The idea that some foods are superfoods is one that has really taken off in recent years. Some are praised for their high anti-oxidant content while others are go-to choices because they are packed with essential nutrients. From fighting cancer to stress reduction or weight loss, the list of superfoods and their list of benefits is growing.

Effects of Smoking on Teeth & Tips for Quitting

By now everyone knows that smoking cigarettes is very harmful to your health. When you think of health risks and smoking, lung cancer is probably the first thing that comes to mind. But did you know that smoking actually harms nearly every single organ of the body?

Your mouth, gums and teeth are no exception.

4 Bad Habits That Damage Your Teeth

Let's be honest - we all probably have at least one or two bad habits. We're human, after all. But did you know that there are some habits that, while they may seem harmless, are actually very harmful to our teeth and overall dental health?

In this post, we'll review a few of these bad habits and how they can wreak havoc on your pearly whites!

3 reasons to brush your teeth that have nothing to do with dental health

We all know that brushing your teeth twice a day, every day is the best way to promote dental health at home. However, did you know that brushing your teeth may have additional health benefits - that have nothing to do with your teeth?

According to different studies, experts and scientists have found possible links between regular teeth brushing and a wide array of other health benefits. These benefits can range from anywhere between respiratory health to a better sex life!

Although the benefits of regular brushing are far-reaching, here are 3 big reasons to keep brushing, other than to maintain a healthy smile.

How Important is Fluoride to Dental Health?

Fluoride and its effects have been a subject of some debate recently. Both the American Dental Association (ADA) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have stated that fluoride is a safe and effective substance for preventing tooth decay, however some critics and less-informed members of the general public are fearful that it can cause harmful side effects or serious illness. In this post, we'll go over the basics of fluoride, its benefits and associated risks.

Pregnancy and Dental Care

A recent article from The Huffington Post reported that certain groups of pregnant women in the U.S. are not receiving appropriate dental care. This is alarming to say the least, since dental care is especially important during pregnancy. Furthermore, since we generally tend to presume that the United States has one of the best dental care establishments in the world, it's confusing as to why this particular demographic isn't getting the care they need.

According to the study, which pulled data from the 1999-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys, more pregnant women over age 35 (86 percent) said their teeth were in good condition, compared to just 57 percent of pregnant women younger than 24. Researchers also found that young pregnant women were less likely than their peers who were not pregnant to report going to the dentist over the past year.

Summer Tips for Dental Safety

Summer time can be risky for one’s dental health. Lots of folks have more time for leisure sports or try new ones while on vacation. There is also the temptation to go overboard with warm weather favorites like ice cream, popsicles, sports and soft drinks. With those points in mind, here’s a quick checklist for keeping your dental health in tact this summer.

Mouth guards should be a requirement for any contact sport including lacrosse, soccer, football, and although they are not contact sports-baseball, softball, rollerblading and skateboarding. An inexpensive mouthguard can protect your teeth, gums and lips from disaster.

Take the necessary precautions when it comes to water sports. Surfboards and Stand Up Paddle (SUP) boards can do quite a bit of damage when they come in contact with your mouth. If you are just beginning these sports, take a few lessons and learn how to protect yourself from dental injuries.

Avid swimmers should be aware that chlorinated pool water has other chemicals that can hurt the teeth. According to the ADA, “Pool water has higher pH than saliva due to the cleaning chemicals. As a result, salivary proteins break down quickly and form organic deposits on the teeth.”  Hard, brown deposits form which are known as “swimmers’ calculus.” They usually appear on the front teeth and can cause yellow or brown discoloration. The good news is that a visit to your dentist for a thorough cleaning should clear up the problem!

Scuba divers need to be aware that the pressure encountered on deep dives, can cause jaw joint pain, gum tissue problems, or what’s known as “tooth squeeze,”-pain in the center of the tooth. Another issue is “diver’s mouth syndrome” (barodontalgia), which is caused by the air pressure as well as divers biting too hard on their scuba air regulators. Anyone with a large cavity, a temporary filling, gum disease, periodontal abscess, or incomplete root canal therapy, is likely to experience pain from the added pressure. Before making plans to scuba dive this summer, it would be a good idea to have an oral exam first.

Make water your “go-to” beverage. Sports drinks and of course soda are loaded with a variety of ingredients that are guaranteed to wreak havoc on your dental health.

Also make smart snack choices by reaching for fresh, crunchy fruits and veggies, low-fat dairy products, wholesome nuts, and wholegrain crackers, pretzels, and popcorn-(unless you have braces, that is.)

If accidents do happen be sure to give us a call right away. We are here to help with injuries to the mouth and teeth and any other issues that may come up during the summer months. You can reach us at 919-782-0548.

The Link Between Oral Health and Overall Health

If the eyes are the windows to our soul, then our mouths are the portals to our physical well-being. Are you aware that your oral health can impact the rest of your body? There is a very intimate connection between what goes on in your mouth and its “trickle-down” effect.

In addition to killing germs and keeping plaque, tartar, bad breath, and bacteria at bay, proper dental care impacts other bodily systems as well. Of course brushing and flossing help keep the teeth and gums healthy, however, such positive practices also boost your overall health. For example, the oral bacteria and inflammation that accompany gum diseases, such as periodontitis, may spread into the circulatory system. There are also diseases that can put a patient’s oral health in jeopardy, such as Diabetes and HIV. Here is a look at a few conditions where oral health can both be impacted or play a significant role:

Diabetes
Patients have a reduced resistance to fight infection, which puts them at risk for gum disease. In fact, gum disease appears to be more frequent and severe among people with diabetes. The research also shows that individuals with gum disease have a harder time controlling their blood sugar levels.

HIV/AIDS
Unfortunately it is quite common for these patients to have oral problems, such as painful mucosal lesions.

Osteoporosis
This condition causes bones to become weak and brittle and may contribute to periodontal bone loss and tooth loss.

Alzheimer's disease
It has been revealed that tooth loss before age 35 could be a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease.

Endocarditis
An infection of the inner lining of the heart, Endocarditis usually occurs when bacteria or other germs from another part of the body, such as the mouth, spread throughout the bloodstream and attach to damaged areas around the heart.

Cardiovascular disease
Some research suggests that heart disease; clogged arteries and stroke might be linked to the inflammation and infections that oral bacteria can cause.

Pregnancy and birth
Did you know that Periodontitis has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight?

These are more good reasons that you should protect your oral health every day by:

• Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and preferably after every meal
• Flossing daily
• Eating a healthy diet full of fresh fruits and vegetables
• Making water your beverage of choice
• Using a soft bristle toothbrush, Fluoride toothpaste and replacing your toothbrush every 3 months
• Scheduling regular visits to the dentist (Call 919-782-0548 to schedule!)

Think Dental Hygiene is Just for Kids?

Many adults regard the practice of brushing and flossing as kids' stuff when, in fact, our teeth can last a lifetime with proper care. As we age, our teeth and gums change and can be affected by a variety of factors, including medications, diet, illness, and injury. Please consider that no matter what your age, daily brushing and flossing is a must. Combine those habits with a healthy diet that's low in sugar, artificial ingredients, and processed foods, and you will have plenty to smile about!

Here are a few reasons why we should always pay proper attention to our dental health:

• Plaque has a tendency to build up more quickly on the teeth of older adults. Left unchecked, it can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
• Always use a fluoride toothpaste and floss daily because cavities and decay that form on the surface of the teeth are more common as we age.
• Many adults have receding gums, which makes brushing and flossing sometimes painful. When anti-sensitivity toothpastes don't work, it's time to come see us. Sensitivity may be an indication of a more serious condition, such as a cavity or a cracked or fractured tooth.
• Certain medications or medical conditions can cause individuals to have a lack of saliva, which leads to a condition known as dry mouth. If not treated, this lack of moisture can actually damage the teeth. A visit to Dr. Simon Melcher can help patients discover various methods to restore moisture in the mouth, as well as appropriate treatments or medications to help prevent the problems associated with dry mouth.
• Several serious disorders can affect one's dental health. Please contact our office if you are facing illnesses such as arthritis, cancer, diabetes, or heart disease, because they can each impact your dental well-being.
• If you have dentures or bridgework, schedule regular check-ups with your dentist to ensure they are doing their job and being maintained correctly.
• Did you know that anyone over the age of 40 is more at risk for gum disease? Rule it out of your life completely by brushing and flossing regularly, avoiding stress, not smoking, eating healthy foods, and monitoring other serious conditions such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. Sticking to those practices can prevent it and even reverse gum disease when it is detected in the early stages.
• Fun toothbrushes and colorful bottles of cavity fighting dental rinses are not just for kids! Treat yourself to a new toothbrush, minty-waxed floss, and even some sugarless gum to liven up your routine and brighten those pearly whites!

We hope these  reasons for maintaining excellent dental health help motivate you to take good care of your teeth.  Please call Dr. Simon Melcher at Implant & General Dentistry to schedule an appointment today: (919) 782-0548

Dental Screenings are Crucial for Early Detection

How many times have you ignored bodily pain or discomfort and convinced yourself it was nothing to be concerned about? These types of symptoms are warning signs from our bodies that something is amiss. Back pain, vision problems, tummy trouble, colds, and flu, are issues we commonly choose to live with. After all, they typically resolve themselves and pose no real danger. However, there are signs that should not be overlooked.

When it comes to oral health matters, folks seem to really turn a blind eye. "Oh, that little bump is nothing, my glands are just swollen." "My gums are inflamed because I brushed too hard."


In fact, new screening techniques allow today's dental health care professionals to identify red flags and detect a variety of conditions at the onset. This process is vital in discovering a number of health problems early and can mean life or death in some situations.

The American Academy of Family Physicians, reports that careful examinations of the mouth may reveal symptoms related to an underlying systemic disease. Their information notes that "swollen gums, ulcers, bad breath and dry mouth are just a few symptoms that could signal more serious conditions, such as diabetes, cancer, heart disease, kidney disease, osteoporosis and more."

Other conditions that may be detected during a routine dental screening are Parkinson's Disease, Sleep Apnea, and Autoimmune Disorders.

Remember that your dentist has access to places that are virtually impossible for you to see! A thorough dental exam involves more than just the teeth, tongue, and gums.

Dr. Melcher and his staff are committed to providing the highest level of dental care. Please do not ignore dental issues. Instead, schedule an appointment for a complete screening. Contact our office to make an appointment by calling: (919) 782-0548

Resolutions for a Healthier Mouth

Are you amazed sometimes by the dazzling white, A-lister worthy perfection of the smiles of those around you? Don't write it off to good genes or good luck, chances are those friends, co-workers, family members, and neighbors work hard to look their best. In addition to maintaining healthy gums and a glistening smile, routine self-care is the key to establishing excellent mouth health.

If you resolved to do better this year in regard to your overall dental care, and have had trouble getting started, here is a quick and easy action plan just for you!

• Start the new year by scheduling your first routine checkup and cleaning. That way, you will know if there are any issues your dental professionals need to address with you, such as sensitivity, cracked teeth, or damaged fillings. Make the most of your visit and get a refresher on the proper ways to brush and floss.  Contact our office to schedule an appointment: 919-782-0548.
• In the spirit of new beginnings, treat yourself to a new dental "tool" kit. Having the best tools will ensure that the job is done right. Ask your dentist about new electric toothbrushes and other ADA approved items including: fluoride toothpaste, an egg timer, waxed floss, a tongue scraper, dental rinse, sugarless gum and lip balm.
• Resolve to brush 2 X daily for 2 minutes.* This is when your egg timer will come in handy! Brushing twice daily is a step in the right direction for a brighter smile and fewer dental problems.
• Floss your teeth and scrape your each night before bedtime.* That way, particles that cause cavities and bacteria that can lead to decay and bad breath will be banished!
• Reach for a stick of sugarless gum 20 minutes after a meal. Recent advancements have made chewing sugarless gum a good thing because many brands now contain ingredients that can protect the teeth. Look for the ADA seal of approval before you buy that pack of spearmint or favorite fruit flavored gum.
• Pay attention to your diet. That means eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Whenever possible, consume raw carrots, apples, and celery. These healthy snacks are great for crunching away other food particles that can cause decay. Also, avoid sugary snacks and beverages, processed foods, and drink plenty of fluoridated water.

*(or even better - after every meal)

Need more motivation? Dr. Melcher and his team of dental professionals in Raleigh, NC would be happy to see you soon! Just give us a call at: (919) 782-0548.

Common Dental Symptoms

Seeing a dentist regularly is so important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. In addition to good health, dental professionals also help their patients keep a smile they can be confident about! Scheduling routine dental visits is perhaps the most important strategy for monitoring your overall health, which can be directly impacted by the state of your teeth and gums. Even though dental health is linked directly to the body's other systems, many find that they typically ignore common dental symptoms. Doing so can lead to more serious problems, which is why these issues should always be addressed by your dental team.

Here is a quick look at some of the most frequent complaints among dental patients:

• Toothaches - Pain in the teeth and gums may be a sign of decay, night grinding, TMJ, or something else. The tooth could be impacted, abscessed, or signal the beginning phases of gum disease.
• Sensitivity - Pain experienced with hot or cold food or beverages or even air, are indications of sensitive teeth. Pinpointing the cause is necessary in order to rule out a variety of conditions. Sensitivity in the teeth is often caused by tooth decay, worn out fillings, cracks in the teeth, an exposed root, or gum disease.
• Sore or Bleeding Gums - The cause could be as simple as overly vigorous brushing or flossing or using a stiff bristled toothbrush. However, these symptoms may also be traced to something more severe, such as gingivitis, which may lead to gum disease.(See: My Gums Bleed When I Brush. What Does It Mean?)
• Mouth Sores - These come in all shapes and sizes-some are severe-and vary in the cause. Although sores are often caused by an abrasion from a jagged tooth, dentures, or braces, they can also be indications of infection caused by viruses, bacteria, or oral cancers. Never ignore this symptom for over 1 week. (See: How to Treat Canker Sores.)
• Bad Breath - Those plagued with frequent bad breath should first evaluate their dental hygiene routine. Proper brushing, flossing, tongue scraping and rinsing-at least twice daily-are all necessary to achieve fresh breath. Other factors that may contribute to bad breath are post-nasal drip, smoking, tooth decay, gum disease, and some medications. (See: What Causes Bad Breath and What Can I Do About It?)
• Jaw Popping and Pain - This common complaint can be attributed to a variety of factors. Some explanations are sinus problems, teeth grinding, stress, gingivitis, and TMJ.(See: Why Does my Jaw Pop When I Open It?)
• Dry Mouth - Many do not realize that the body's production of saliva aids digestion and helps prevent tooth decay. Having an insufficient amount of saliva may be due to a medical disorder or a side effect of some medications.
• Problems with Oral Piercings - Because the mouth is a breeding ground for bacteria, when piercings are made in unsanitary conditions or improperly looked after, numerous problems can arise. Discoloration, pain, swelling, foul odor, oozing at the site, plus chills or fever, are all signs that something is wrong.
• Cracked or Broken Teeth - When teeth become cracked or broken, it is very important to determine the cause. Very often, the damage may be naked to the human eye, which is why it is vital to see a dental professional regularly. Regardless of the cause, whether it's from grinding, injury, or tooth decay, bigger problems are in store if cracked or broken teeth are left untreated.(See: Crowns for Damaged, Decayed, or Broken Teeth.)
• Stained or Discolored Teeth - As we age, the ravages of tobacco use, coffee, tea, certain foods, some medications, and just genetics, can cause tooth enamel to become discolored. Regular cleanings help and there are also whitening options. Your dentist can rule out anything serious and offer the best solutions for whitening or stain removal.

Please do not ignore any of these symptoms. Make an appointment with Dr. Melcher and establish a plan of action immediately.

When ignored, dental problems can lead to irreversible conditions. Whenever a problem persists for more than 5 to 7 days, make an appointment with our office. Early detection is truly the key for eliminating dental concerns. Remember that bacteria and other infections located in the mouth can make their way into the body's circulatory and cardiovascular systems. Recent indicators show a real connection between several common dental issues and heart disease!

If you are in need of a full-service dental office in the greater Raleigh area, contact the office of Dr. Simon Melcher of Implant and General Dentistry. From bridges to wisdom teeth, our team of dental professionals is skilled and experienced in the latest strategies and treatments for improving the dental health and hygiene of our clients.

Learn more by giving us a call to schedule an appointment at 919-782-0548. Our office is located at 3340 Six Forks Road in Raleigh.  Read some of our many success stories here.

Dentists Providing Care in the Face of Hardship

The American Dental Association's Foundation, or simply, the ADA Foundation, is a charitable organization whose mission is to unite people, interested groups, corporations and resources to "make a difference through better oral health."

Through contributions made by the general public and those in the field of dentistry and orthodontics, the foundation spearheads research, educational programs, and recruits volunteers to carry out their mission. The ADA Foundation offers scholarships for dental students, oral health care to disadvantaged areas, and assistance for dentists and their families who are experiencing difficulties. In addition to obtaining donations and grants, the ADA Foundation strives to provide accessible dental care to those in need. Thanks to their strong alliance with the American Dental Association, their membership is able to take on special challenges that affect dentistry and dental health, around the globe.

Currently, members of the ADA Foundation team are assisting victims of Typhoon Haiyan, which struck the Philippines in early November. Its impact devastated several islands in the area, and killed over 6,000 individuals. Even now, UN officials estimate that close to 11 million people were severely affected and many of them were left homeless.

Please consider helping the ADA Foundation with a donation to help its disaster relief efforts in the Philippines. Funds raised will provide much needed dental care for the victims of Typhoon Haiyan.

Please note that all donations will be combined, and a grant will be issued from the ADAF directly to the ADA's Division of Global Affairs, which will identify and work with a reputable non-profit (NGO) to distribute the funds appropriately to serve the greatest need.

If you would like to learn more about donations, how the funds are used or how to volunteer, here is the contact information:

By Mail:
ADA Foundation
211 East Chicago Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611
Phone: 312-440-2547
Fax: 312-440-3526

E-mail: adaf@ada.org