Explaining periodontal disease in ways that are simple and still honest. Where I came up with A Tooth Has Four Parts.

Add the word "cementum" to your vocabulary. Brushing and flossing tips – what's important and what might be damaging? What is a comprehensive dentist?

Happy birthday to a new grandson! Do you know the difference between infection and inflammation? Allow me to make it simple. Also, we discuss inflammatory diseases in general as well as what autoimmune diseases are. The mouth is an easy and direct way to begin to address inflammatory diseases of the body and a laser at the right setting can accomplish this quickly and effectively. Finally, when the mouth is healthier, it affects the rest of the body's health as well.

Let's talk about local anesthetics and dentists. In this episode I describe how to help children with their fears about going to the dentist. Also, should dental hygienists be allowed to give local anesthesia? What might be some good ways to train and certify them? I also give a few of my own tips on how dentists might think about providing comfortable anesthesia. So, patients – how important would you say the delivery of comfortable local anesthesia is to you? Is it as big a deal as I think it is? Let me know your thoughts.

Today the topic is pain management. I get into the difference between narcotics and non-narcotics.

I'm heading off to Haven for Hope and the Christian Dental Clinic in San Antonio to serve with a number of other dentists a population of refugees living in our city. I explain how we do this as part of the ministry of Christian Medical and Dental Associations (CMDA). To learn more, check out their San Antonio Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/cmdasatx/

Patients with chronic inflammation who smoke have more trouble in general than those who don't. With regards to periodontal disease smoking affects the mouth in two ways -- locally and systemically. But the nicotine addiction is a tough problem. There are some things you can do to help quit and we discuss a few in this podcast.

My smoking story. How to think about quitting smoking in ways that will actually strengthen your resolve.

https://youtu.be/bjX7FIfAA2k