Category Archives: General Dentistry

Get Straight Teeth without Traditional Braces | Boca Raton Dentist

We’re all familiar with braces – metal fastened to teeth in our adolescent years to straighten our crooked permanent teeth. It was a source of ridicule that made growing up torture. But if you didn’t get braces as a kid, you now need to balance a desire for a corrected smile against the desire not to have visible metal braces. The American Association of Orthodontics indicates that approximately 25% of people wearing braces are adults, which means a lot of patients are currently being treated. But you don’t see them that often, so how? Clear braces known as Invisalign.

Invisalign is a series of treatments where customized, clear plastic aligners are worn for a specific period of time, slowly and slightly correcting the patient’s bite as the patient completes the specified time with each aligner. There are no brackets or wires, reducing all of the extra care that comes with traditional braces.

The aligners should be worn 20-22 hours each day. They can be removed while you eat and brush your teeth, but are generally worn while awake and asleep. Because the aligners are removed while you eat, you’re free to eat virtually anything you’d normally eat – there are no concerns about getting food stuck in the wires of traditional braces.

Nearly all bite issues can be corrected with Invisalign, though some dentists will recommend against Invisalign in certain cases where Invisalign may be significantly more costly and difficult than traditional orthodontic treatments. To determine if you’re an Invisalign candidate, schedule an appointment soon for a full evaluation.

If you would like more information about Invisalign, contact Dr. Rosenbuch at (561) 394-7888 or visit our website at www.cliverosenbuschdds.com.

Dr. Rosenbusch proudly serves Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, Boynton, Ft. Lauderdale and all surrounding areas.

Laugh Your Way out of the Dentist Chair | Boca Raton Dentist

Dental anxiety is an actual condition that results in patients having a hard time sitting in the dentist’s chair long enough to finish even a simple checkup. When this issue arises, the dentist may suggest a form of medicine to help a patient feel more relaxed or sleepy, but still widely conscious. This medicine? Nitrous oxide.

Commonly referred to as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is used to help anxious patients relax their fear of the dentist and makes them feel more comfortable. The effect often lasts throughout the whole treatment, calming the patient and allowing the dentist to proceed safely with the treatment.

Administered via a mask, the patient will breathe in the laughing gas through their nose. Slowly, it will take effect and will eventually make the feel comfortable, even giddy in some cases, which is where it gets its moniker.

The effects quickly wear off as well, often completely gone from the patient’s body just five minutes after the mask is taken off. This makes it possible for patients to move around normally, even drive safely without needing someone to accompany them to-and-from the dentist’s office.

Patients who are suffering from medical conditions, such as emphysema and multiple sclerosis are not good candidates for nitrous oxide sedation. The same goes for pregnant women, specifically, those who are in the first trimester of pregnancy.

If you’re concerned about whether or not nitrous oxide sedation is safe for you, be sure to discuss it with your doctor or a local dentist.

If you would like more information about nitrous oxide, contact Dr. Rosenbuch at (561) 394-7888 or visit our website at www.cliverosenbuschdds.com.

Dr. Rosenbusch proudly serves Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, Boynton, Ft. Lauderdale and all surrounding areas.

Why Emotional Eating Can Mess with Your Smile | Boca Raton Dentist

We’ve all been there before, something traumatic in your life happens and the first thing you do is turn to something else in order to console ourselves. And chances are, those choices aren’t going to involve eating a salad or having a giant glass of water. No, we will be indulging in a tub of ice cream or a stiff alcoholic beverage. It’s what we know will sooth our emotions, if only for a moment. And so, we do. And then it wears off and we are left with both the bad feelings and a belly full of unhealthiness. It’s a slippery slope we walk when something goes wrong in our worlds. But there are ways to combat those intense cravings when the sky begins to fall:

Talk it out. One of the easiest ways to help relieve your stressors is to talk them out. It could be to anyone – a confidant, a professional or just yourself – talking out the reasons you are feeling the way you are will not only make you feel better, but will also help you find solutions clearly.

Work it out. Believe it or not, but exercise releases endorphins in your brain, instantly boosting your overall attitude. If you’re feeling down, go out for a walk or to the gym. It’s just as good as that chocolate snack, but won’t make you feel bad afterwards.

Hug it out. Love is the strong stress reliever of all. So, grab whatever or whoever you love the most and just love on them for a minute.

If you would like more information about stress eating, contact Dr. Rosenbuch at (561) 394-7888 or visit our website at www.cliverosenbuschdds.com.

Dr. Rosenbusch proudly serves Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, Boynton, Ft. Lauderdale and all surrounding areas.

Do You Have Sleep Issues? This Is Essential | Boca Raton Dentist

If you are suffering from sleep conditions, it is important that you seek medical advice. Depending on your diagnosis, it will be treated with anything from an airway pressure device (CPAP) to lifestyle changes. But have you ever tried using essential oils?

A little-known treatment, but many essential oils effectively deal with sleep complaints ranging from nervous insomnia to snoring. Essential oils are safe and easy to use and the following oils are ideal:

Marjoram. Marjoram essential oil is a warm, comforting oil with sedative properties that help induce sleep, ideal for conditions like sleep apnea.

Lavender. A classic scent used to relax, try massaging a few drops of this gentle oil into your feet, neck and chest before bedtime.

Peppermint. If your sleep apnea is caused by nasal congestion, peppermint essential oil can help relieve the inflammation and irritation in the lining of your nasal passage.

Eucalyptus. Steam inhalation of eucalyptus has anti-inflammatory properties will clear up mucus from the nose and throat.

Roman Chamomile. Roman Chamomile aids relaxation, promotes sound sleep and treats problems with the central nervous system.

Thyme. Thyme essential oil is extensively used to treat respiratory conditions and can help free up the blocked airways that may cause apnea.

Geranium. Massaging a few diluted drops of geranium oil into your chest, neck and feet before bed is an excellent remedy for sleep disruptions caused by sleep apnea.

Valerian. Valerian root has been used for centuries to calm the nerves.

Lemon. The mixture of Thyme, Lavender, Lemon and Peppermint oils reduced snoring up to 82%.

If you would like more information about sleep conditions, contact Dr. Rosenbuch at (561) 394-7888 or visit our website at www.cliverosenbuschdds.com.

Dr. Rosenbusch proudly serves Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, Boynton, Ft. Lauderdale and all surrounding areas.

Oil Pulling 101: What You Need to Know | Boca Raton Dentist

We all love a good tip to improve our health, but trends come and go. However, the good ones will stick around for eons. And one of the latest trends has been oil pulling.

Oil pulling is basically swishing a tablespoon of oil in your mouth for up to 20 minutes. The oil detoxes your mouth and continues to improve various health issues over time. Any type of healthy oil will do, but coconut oil has incredible health benefits.

The problem with bacteria is that it loves dark damp places, so the mouth is a great place for it to move in and set up camp. As toxins are leaving your body, you will begin to feel better and notice that your skin is beginning to glow. But if the mouth is the focus of bacteria, what does oil pulling do for that? We were just about to get there…

Fresh breath. One of the reasons one has bad breath is because of bacteria build-up in the mouth. Since the oil rids your mouth of bacteria, it simultaneously rids it of your halitosis.

Pearly whites. Over-the-counter products are full of bleach and chemicals. Oil pulling is one way to naturally whiten your teeth at home.

No more plaque. Oil pulling helps detoxify your mouth by reducing the harmful bacteria that leads to plaque build-up, giving you added protection against cavity-causing bacteria.

No more bleeding gums. Oil pulling helps reduce swelling as it heals your bleeding gums and reverses gingivitis.

If you would like more information about oil pulling, contact Dr. Rosenbuch at (561) 394-7888 or visit our website at www.cliverosenbuschdds.com.

Dr. Rosenbusch proudly serves Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, Boynton, Ft. Lauderdale and all surrounding areas.

Laugh Your Way through Your Dental Procedure | Boca Raton Dentist

Professional dental brushingDental anxiety is a condition that affects both adults and children alike. While some have ways to cope, there are those that have a hard time entertaining the idea of sitting in the dentist’s chair long enough to finish even a simple checkup. In these cases, the dentist may suggest a form of medicine to help you feel more relaxed, but still widely conscious – nitrous oxide.

What is nitrous oxide? Commonly referred to as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is used to help patients who are mildly or moderately anxious or nervous, easing their fear of the dentist. Nitrous oxide is mixed with oxygen, and breathed in through their nose via a mask. Slowly, it will take effect and will eventually make the feel comfortable, even giddy in some cases.

The dentist will often adjust the levels of the gas administered, depending on the type of treatment involved. Also, dentists have received the necessary training and education to know how to prevent their patients from being overdosed.

The main benefit of nitrous oxide is that it is inhaled through a mask, which makes the ideal option for patients who are afraid of needles. Also, since it is in gas form, it tends to take effect quickly. Nitrous oxide can also be used by just about anyone, from kids, to adults, to even people who have pre-existing medical conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. If you’re concerned about whether or not nitrous oxide sedation is safe for you, be sure to discuss it with your doctor or a local dentist.

If you would like more information about dental anxiety, contact Dr. Rosenbuch at (561) 394-7888 or visit our website at www.cliverosenbuschdds.com.

Dr. Rosenbusch proudly serves Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, Boynton, Ft. Lauderdale and all surrounding areas.

A Toothbrush Isn’t a One-Time Purchase | Boca Raton Dentist

It’s no mystery that we should be brushing our teeth twice a day in order to maintain our oral health, but it’s important to remember that your toothbrush is a tool and you need a great tool to do the job correctly. We use it to remove food debris and bacteria from our teeth, and like many tools, it requires proper care in order be effective.

To minimize bacteria, the toothbrush must be kept clean. It should be washed thoroughly with tap water after each use to remove food particles and leftover toothpaste. When stored, keeping it upright will allow excess water to drain from the bristles, less likely to grow bacteria. If you need to store it in a closed container (for example, when traveling), try to dry it using a clean towel beforehand.

From time to time, sanitize your toothbrush with antibacterial mouthwash. You can even toss it in the dishwasher to kill bacteria. There are also professional sterilizers that utilize ultraviolet light to sanitize toothbrushes available on the market.

The average toothbrush should last 3-4 months, but if it shows signs of wear it needs to be replaced. Bristles that are frayed, loose, or falling out, or any cracking plastic are all replacement signs. Even if the toothbrush is in good condition, you should consider replacing your toothbrush after you’ve been ill. Continuing to use a toothbrush after you’ve been sick will continue introducing bacteria into your system, making you more susceptible to further illness and dental issues.

If you would like more information about toothbrushes, contact Dr. Rosenbuch at (561) 394-7888 or visit our website at www.cliverosenbuschdds.com.

Dr. Rosenbusch proudly serves Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, Boynton, Ft. Lauderdale and all surrounding areas.

Dental Implants Will Fix Your Smile | Boca Raton Dentist

ThinkstockPhotos-164125777Many patients put off going to the dentist. Whether they’re afraid of the pain, the noise of the procedures or the monetary cost of dental work, putting off dental visits can turn small problems into larger ones. Left long enough and your teeth can be lost due to decay, infection, or physical problems like cracking.

For the most severe dental problems, treatment is a dental implant. While synthetic substance and crowns place a cap over an existing tooth root, implants replace the entire tooth – root and all. If done properly, a tooth implant can potentially last a lifetime.

The procedure starts by removing the existing tooth and root, and placing a titanium implant post into the jawbone. This metal post is the foundation for the entire implant, and it should be allowed to heal for 6-12 weeks. As soon as the bone forms a permanent bond with the metal post, the dentist will attach a second metal connector – known as an abutment – to the post, to provide a connecting surface for the replacement tooth. The dentist will then make impressions, modeling the entire mouth so that the replacement crown perfectly matches your existing bite. Finally, the crown will be attached permanently to the abutment, providing a solid, permanent tooth

We realize that the description sounds really painful. And while there may be pain during the initial extraction, the procedure can be done with a simple local anesthesia. Making sure your smile remains as healthy as possible will prevent having the need for surgery, so make sure to have check-ups regularly.

If you would like more information about dental implants, contact Dr. Rosenbuch at (561) 394-7888 or visit our website at www.cliverosenbuschdds.com.

Dr. Rosenbusch proudly serves Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, Boynton, Ft. Lauderdale and all surrounding areas.

January 21st Is National Granola Bar Day | Boca Raton Dentist

186932212There are lots of foods that we love to indulge in aren’t necessarily good for us. In order to compensate for the lack of nutrition, we eat foods that are better for us to counterbalance things. But what if I told you that you may be eating foods that only look good for us? Yes, there are some foods that are unhealthy but choose to remain incognito. One of these foods is a staple at every health food store – the granola bar.

Your basic granola bar is composed of some really healthy ingredients – lots of grains like oats and barley are mixed with superfoods like nuts and dried fruits, in order to keep up energy. This is why hikers and other outdoor sports enthusiasts use them while on the go. So far, so good, right? Here is where things get dicey.

In order to create the “bar” effect that makes up a granola bar, there needs to be an ingredient to hold everything together. Unfortunately, this ends up being some type of sticky sugary agent, like honey, syrup and/or molasses. Not only do these ingredients bind everything together in the molds, but also adds a sweet factor that gives the granola its draw. Therein lies the problem. Sugar is the main culprit we have in getting cavities!

So, next time you are looking for a healthy snack to nosh on, make sure to read the labels on your favorites. You may be surprised just how healthy they really are for not only our bodies, but our smiles as well.

If you would like more information about teeth-friendly foods, contact Dr. Rosenbuch at (561) 394-7888 or visit our website at www.cliverosenbuschdds.com.

Dr. Rosenbusch proudly serves Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, Boynton, Ft. Lauderdale and all surrounding areas.

New Year, New Habits | Boca Raton Dentist

whitening-smallAs we prepare to embark on yet another new year, it’s time for us to sit and think about ways we need to improve over the next year. One of the main habits surrendered during this time of year is smoking. The harmful effects of smoking on respiratory and cardiac health are well known, but if you’re a smoker, we want to make sure that you’re aware that smoking can also affect your oral health. In fact, just like it can lead to respiratory and cardiac issues, smoking can be catastrophic to your teeth, gums and mouth.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that nearly half of American adults have, or have had, some type of gum disease. The same study reported that more than 64 percent of smokers suffered from periodontal disease, which is an inflammation of the gums that can lead to the loss of the tissues that hold your teeth in place!

The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research has reported that smoking is one of the most significant factors associated with the development of gum disease. Smoking restricts the amount of blood flowing in your gums and surrounding tissues, which increases their chance of being inflamed. When you smoke, your immune system is weakened, leaving your body more vulnerable to infection. Gum disease occurs when the tissue that supports your teeth becomes infected due to plaque buildup. First you get gingivitis, then plaque that eventually hardens into tartar.

But your gums aren’t the only thing you need to worry about. Smoking doesn’t just stain your teeth, but it also aids in losing them. The appearance of stained teeth is unpleasant enough on its own. All of the nicotine and tar found in tobacco turns the teeth from their natural white to yellow and eventually to brown. But if this is a habit that you continue with, know that that long-term smoking can result in tooth loss. Having teeth is far more attractive than having a cigarette in your mouth!

But there’s more. Smoking will eventually take over lots of areas in your mouth, causing health issues that are far more detrimental than yellowed teeth. Smoking is one of the primary causes of mouth cancer, and it can be fatal. According to the Dental Health Foundation, smoking or chewing tobacco causes between 80 to 90 percent of oral cancers. If that’s not bad enough, even those “I only smoke when I drink” have an underlying issue. Alcohol consumption increases the risk of oral cancer so if one consumes alcohol and tobacco together, the risk is even higher.

We are sympathetic to those who struggle with an addiction to tobacco products, but please don’t sacrifice your beautiful smile to the dangers of smoking. If you quit smoking, brush twice a day, floss once a day, eat a well-balanced diet, and attend your regular dental checkups and cleanings, then you will significantly improve your chances of enjoying great oral health.

If you feel smoking has become an issue, contact Dr. Rosenbuch at (561) 394-7888 or visit our website at www.cliverosenbuschdds.com.

Dr. Rosenbusch proudly serves Boca Raton, Del Rey Beach, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, Boynton, Ft. Lauderdale and all surrounding areas.