True or False? Dark Chocolate is Good for Your Teeth…

Since it most often falls into the “sweets and candy” food group, chocolate is usually considered something to avoid when it comes to choosing healthy snacks. Surprise! Among the three types of chocolate-milk, white, and dark, the dark chocolate choice has a slew of health benefits.

One of the most publicized is the fact that dark chocolate is loaded with antioxidants. They help the body by eliminating free radicals, which can cause cell damage, in the form of aging and possibly cancer. Along with its anti-oxidant properties, dark chocolate has been proven to increase HDL levels, which are known as “good cholesterol”. It has also been shown to lower blood pressure, improve cognition, plus it’s high in Magnesium, Copper, Potassium, and Iron.

Recent information has revealed that dark chocolate can be good for your teeth and even prevent tooth decay! The key is in choosing chocolate that is truly dark, which will be those containing between 70 and 85% pure cocoa. The magic in the mix is due to the fact that cocoa beans contain tannins, polyphenols and flavonoids, each of which is a type of powerful antioxidant that benefits the mouth and teeth. Here’s how they help:

• Tannins prevent bacteria from adhering to the teeth, which helps nip cavities in the bud! Tannins are also what give dark chocolate its dark color and bitter taste.
• Polyphenols work to neutralize the microorganisms linked to bad breath, ward off gum infections and fight tooth decay. 
• Flavonoids keep harmful dental plaque from gaining a stronghold on tooth enamel, thus, preventing cavities.

Those three heavy hitters mean that dark chocolate has about four times the amount of antioxidants contained in the much praised beverage-green tea. Hmmm-rich dark chocolate or a cup of pale green tea…which would you choose? Even better, the cocoa butter in dark chocolate coats the teeth and once again, fights plaque.

Before indulging, please keep in mind that enjoying dark chocolate should be done in moderation. Just one ounce a day is recommended, which is equal to 6 Hershey’s Dark Kisses. Be aware that the calories, fat, and sugar are still there, so use a little will power and just one ounce a day, please! Of course, brush and rinse thoroughly after all meals and snacks-even those that are good for you!

Time for a cleaning and oral health check-up? Simply call 919-782-0548 to schedule an appointment.

Not Sure About Fluoridated Water?

Around 60 years ago, cavities and tooth decay were common problems. Thankfully, numerous advances in the field of dentistry have changed things. The use of fluoride has been proven to reduce cavities and help repair very early stages of tooth decay.

When it was discovered how dramatically just a small amount of fluoride could change a person’s smile for the better, communities across the country began supplementing water supplies with the nutrient. It is important to understand that fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in all water sources, including the ocean. As it works with the hydrogen and oxygen found in drinking water, fluoride is effective in preventing and reversing the early signs of tooth decay. It acts by making the tooth structure stronger, which makes the teeth more resistant to the harmful effects from the acids that are found in many foods, including soft drinks, candy, and fruit. When those acids are not removed, they join forces with the bacteria in plaque and weaken dental enamel.

Fluoride acts to repair those teeth that are in danger of decay. It does this through a process called “remineralization” which can stop the decay process in its tracks! Fluoride also performs as a shield or armour by creating a surface on the teeth that makes them resistant to decay.  Of course, using fluoridated toothpaste is effective. However, the combination of fluoridated toothpaste and drinking water is even better!
If you are not sure about your community’s drinking water and the level of fluoride it contains, there are ways to find out. The best bet is to contact the local utilities department or your county health department. This information may also be found online.

The Environmental Protection Agency maintains a website with a map of the U.S. that provides water quality reports. Access it here: http://water.epa.gov/drink/local/

Another helpful site is the Centers for Disease Control’s “My Water’s Fluoride”-see it here: http://apps.nccd.cdc.gov/MWF/Index.asp

For those who drink well water, a certified laboratory should test it periodically. Contact your local or state health department for information about where you can have a water sample tested.

If you find out that your water supply is not fluoridated-don’t worry! There are still ways to get the right amount of fluoride for adequate protection. Your dental professional or health care provider should be able to prescribe fluoride supplements in the form of drops, lozenges, or tablets. They are especially geared towards youngsters between the ages of six months to 16 years who do not have access to fluoridated water. This age group is at higher risk for developing tooth decay. Please note that the American Dental Association has stated, “It is important to note that fluoridated water may be consumed from sources other than the home water supply, such as the workplace, school and/or day care, bottled water, filtered water and from processed beverages and foods prepared with fluoridated water. For this reason, dietary fluoride supplements should be prescribed by carefully following the recommended dosage.”

Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?

 For those who are missing one or more teeth, dental implants may be a great alternative to the usual solutions of bridges or dentures. Because implants do not rest on the gum line like removable dentures or require the surrounding teeth to serve as anchor points like bridges, they are considered a long-term answer.

Anyone who is considering dental implants should be aware that certain health conditions might rule them out as an option. The reason is due to the fact that implants are fused to the bone. When the bone is in a weakened state, dental implants are just not always a choice. The conditions that most commonly prevent a patient from having dental implants are the following: uncontrolled diabetes, cancer, radiation to the jaws, smoking, alcoholism, or uncontrolled periodontal (gum) disease. Some medications and herbal supplements can also hamper the possibilities for this line of treatment. For these reasons, it is vital to inform your dental professionals about any health issues-past or present, that you have experienced.

According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, "Statistics show that 69% of adults ages 35 to 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth to an accident, gum disease, a failed root canal or tooth decay. Furthermore, by age 74, 26% of adults have lost all of their permanent teeth." Missing teeth cause embarrassment, make eating difficult, and can severely impact one's self-confidence. An issue with dentures and bridges is that over time they can cause further bone loss. Another strike against them is that they usually need to be replaced every 7 to 15 years.

That is why, for the ideal candidates, dental implants make a lot of sense! An implant is essentially a crown on a titanium post. The post is fused with the jawbone and is the next best thing to a healthy, permanent tooth. Unlike dentures or bridges, that can potentially slip or make clicking sounds when talking or chewing, dental implants remain firmly in place. Another plus is that they do not decay or cause bone loss.

Our dental implant patients frequently report how wonderful it is to be free of the day-to-day frustrations caused by missing teeth, ill-fitting bridges and dentures. With their self-confidence restored, many have said they truly have, "a new lease on life," which is something we love to hear!

If you would like to learn more about dental implants, dentures, bridges, or just need experienced and professional dental care, please contact the office of Dr. Simon Melcher of Implant and General Dentistry in Raleigh.

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. Simply call 919-782-0548 to schedule an appointment.

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

Toothbrush Care and Replacement

Have you ever stopped to think about what happens to the germs that reside in your mouth when you brush? Of course, proper dental care eliminates food particles and bacteria that cause plaque and tooth decay. However, it is highly likely that some of those tiny bits and pieces are transferred to the very tool you use to get rid of them - your toothbrush! That is why taking extra steps to keep your toothbrush hygienic and replace it when it has passed its prime are extremely important steps on the path to a healthy smile.

Please consider the following tips for taking care of one of your most important tools in the fight against tooth decay:

• Never, ever, share a toothbrush with another individual-that means between spouses, siblings, and children.
• After use, take a good look at your toothbrush and rinse it under running water several times. Tiny food particles can become trapped between the bristles and result in a bacteria infested situation-right on your toothbrush!After rinsing, make sure to store toothbrushes, upright so they can air dry. Bacteria and other organisms will grow faster on bristles kept in a closed, damp environment.Never allow the bristles of other toothbrushes to touch one another. Even such light contact can spread germs.
• Whenever a toilet is flushed and the lid is open, microscopic bacteria can become airborne. To prevent contact with your toothbrush, make sure it is kept at least 6 feet away from the toilet.
• As an extra precaution, try disinfecting your toothbrush in a strong dental rinse or mouthwash, such as Listerine. You also can purchase an ADA-approved sanitizer machine, which uses ultraviolet lamps or steam and dry heat to destroy nearly all bacteria and viruses.
• Periodically check the condition of your toothbrush. When the bristles are frayed and worn, they are just not up to the job of maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
• The American Dental Association recommends getting a new toothbrush every 3 to 4 months.

We encourage you to pay attention to your toothbrush and follow these tips to make sure that you stay as healthy as possible.  Contact Implant & General Dentistry in Raleigh NC to schedule an appointment with Dr. Simon Melcher today: (919) 782-0548.

Resources Aimed at Pediatric Dental Care

Establishing healthy habits such as proper dental care and wholesome snacking are vital for putting children on the path to a lifetime of well-being. As parents, we certainly need all of the help we can get towards imparting this information and making it appealing for our youngsters.

In addition to regular dental visits and having access to all of the tools needed to maintain a healthy smile, kids often need a little boost to ensure that they follow through. Here is a list of a few very helpful websites that improve your child's chances for making the right choices when it comes to dental health and hygiene:

• Meet the Mouth Monsters and learn how to keep them away: http://www.mychildrensteeth.org/mouth_monsters/
• Online Dental Games: http://www.learninggamesforkids.com/health_games_dental.html
• Oral Health Education Database: http://www.healthyteeth.org/
• Games for Choosing Healthy Snacks: http://www.kidseatwell.org/kids.htm

Dr. Simon Melcher at Implant and General Dentistry in Raleigh works with children and can help you and your family establish a great dental care routine.  Be sure to call our office to schedule an appointment: 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