Everyone is invited!

HOW TO QUALIFY FOR YOUR LIFETIME BOTOX DISCOUNT

What you need to know!
Existing Patient Qualifiers
1. Schedule a Botox appointment for the Aug. 14, 2014 Fishers Botox event or within 30 days of the event to qualify for a lifetime discount on Botox of $10 per unit; AND

2. Check-in using social media at their next appointment or for the botox appointment;
3. Refer a Botox or dental patient.

New Botox Patient Qualifiers
1. Schedule a Botox appointment for the Aug. 14, 2014 Fishers Botox event; AND
2. To maintain your lifetime discount, patients must be seen for Botox injections at least twice every 12 months or your forfeit your lifetime Botox discount of $10/unit.

Anderson patients may schedule at the Anderson office on a different day than the launch event and appointments for the lifetime discount will be made available to them Aug 11 through Aug 15, 2014 to ensure they are able to get an appointment.

Lifetime Savings = $120 Each Visit!

Average full retail cost of Botox is $12 per unit and by paying $10 per unit you are saving more than you do on average even with Brilliant Distinctions!

CALL 317.578.1933 TO SCHEDULE YOUR FISHERS BOTOX EVENT APPOINTMENT!

TMJ Treatments and How Nerves Play a Role

About one-half of all the nerves of the brain go to the mouth, jaws and lower face. Did you know that? No wonder jaw pain is so common!

Types of Nerves and How TMJ is Affected

There are three types of nerves: sensory, motor and autonomic. Quick definitions so you can understand your TMJ association with nerves.

1. Sensory nerves
Conduct sensations – touch, heat, cold, pressure, pain, etc.
2. Motor nerves
Motor nerves cause the muscles to contract for movements of the lips, tongue, jaw, palate, larynx, etc.
3. Autonomic nerves
Autonomic nerves are part of the subconscious control system. They turn on and select secretion of saliva, tears, nasal secretions, etc. They also connect to the rest of the body; the digestive system, the heart, reproductive organs, etc. to get the rest of the body ready for what’s going to happen next.

These nerve systems are complex. Medical science cannot explain all we would like to know about how the nerves function in health and disease. Fortunately, (in the last ten years) much has been learned about pain, muscle control, nerve reflexes, etc.

Consequently, more patients are being helped. More importantly, it has been learned that patients with chronic pains have real physical problems and aren’t suffering because of emotional instability.

Jaw Joints and Nerves and TMJ

Abnormalities of the jaw joints and nerves are major causes of disease and illness in our society – probably causing five to ten percent of the population to suffer headaches, pain and/or abnormal body function. Typically, the pain begins in the region of the ear.

Pains tends to grow from the ear and becomes a headache radiating through the temple perhaps behind the eye and then down the back of the neck. Some patients describe feeling extreme jaw tightness or “lock jaw.”

Often TMJ is misdiagnosed by primary physicians as a vascular migraine headache, when in reality many so-called vascular problems and neuromuscular contraction problems are secondary to the derangements of the TMJ.

TMJ problems also cause neck, back, shoulder and arm pains – and vice-versa.
It is not uncommon for TMJ patients to have arm pain, numbness or weakness.

If the neck vertebrae get out of line, pain may radiate through the back of the head into the region of the TMJ and temple. Therefore, it is sometimes important to have an examination and treatment for neck problems for these can contribute to painful symptoms.

What is a TMJ Headache? How to Know if you Have One!

The TMJ headache symptoms vary because TMJ is called the “The Great Imposter” with symptoms appearing like traditional migraines or sinus, ear, eye and neck problems.

Generally, pain begins in and around the ear or jaw portion near that area and is sometimes accompanies by stuffiness, buzzing, ringing, fullness and even a sensation of water dripping in the ear.

TMJ pain migrates into the temple across the side of the head and down the back of the neck. In severe cases, the pain radiates behind the eye, causing a deep pressure pain in the retro-orbital region.

These TMJ headaches are like a deep ache and last for hours and sometimes days. Some patients have ported nausea.

There is an old saying “if you assume that a person is neurotic you can use his symptoms to support your diagnosis.” So if you are told by a physician the pain is in your head – they are right but it is in your jaw not your mind!

Whereas most people with jaw joint problems don’t seem to suffer much and are able to cope with TMJ problems there are others whose lives are devastated by these problems. There are literally millions suffering headache and other physical and emotional disturbances because of jaw joint problems.

The Jaw’s Disc Joint, TMJ and Degenerative Joint Disease/h2>
The disc, a small cushion in the jaw joint, frequently gets out of place, causing clicking and/or locking at first. This may not always cause pain.

As the joint begins to wear out because the disc is displaced, it can make a crunch or grinding noise. This is called Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD) or Degenerative Arthritis. It is usually limited to the jaw joints and may or may not be painful.

When the disc is out of place it usually will go back in place by itself. This requires jaw repositioning with appliances called bite planes or splints which are commonly used by TMJ patients even if they do not have DJD. T

Treatment of TMJ Options

Treatment of jaw joints is divided into several phases depending on the nature of the problem and the age of the patient.

Youth TMJ
In young patients, if the disc is out of place, jaw re-positioning therapy is recommended to put it back in place even if it is not painful. Generally this is done with appliances that gradually move the joint back together and prevent grinding of the teeth at night.

Adult TMJ
If an adult has a disc out of place for a long period repositioning may not be possible. It is best not to treat this if the patient has no headaches or pain.

However, if it hurts or causes pain, relief can be achieved in 80-85% of the cases by bite splints (bite planes, muscle relaxation jaw appliances, etc.) supported by muscle relaxation therapy; mild muscle relaxant medication, anti-inflammatory medication, and physical therapy, biofeedback, etc. Of all the different treatment programs, the bite splint (jaw repositioner) has proven most effective.

Length of treatment
Stressed individuals who grind their teeth always at night may find the need for an appliance their entire life, while others may simply need an appliance to move the jaw over a period of weeks or months.

Usually the first phase of treatment lasts 8 to 10 weeks, however, it may last a year or more. The second phase depends on what needs to be done to get the teeth to fit together after the jaw joints have calmed down. Sometimes the patient may simply wear the bite splint at night or whenever the jaw becomes uncomfortable.

In other cases, orthodontics or restorative dentistry such as crowns and bridges may be required.

The case of TMJ problems is complex. The tendency to have TMJ problems may be inherited. Childhood injuries are often a factor.

Sometimes TMJ problems lie dormant, then suddenly begin to cause pain for little or no reason. Usually it is impossible to treat the cause – it is best simply to treat what is actually wrong and try to make it better.

Conclusion to TMJ Treatment

Jaw joint problems are broadly classified as developmental abnormalities, diseases and dysfunctions.

Also there are other problems such as dental infections, split teeth, sinus and ear problems, etc., which cause similar symptoms. Nerve inflammations called neuralgia also cause craniofacial pain.

A thorough examination including a review of the patients history, clinical examination, x-rays and laboratory tests provide the basis for the diagnosis.

TMJ treatments are highly variable and based on the nature of the problem, how long it has existed, the patients age, etc.

There is no way to use a cookbook philosophy of TMJ treatment. Each patient is different from the others and the treatment must be based on individual needs. Make an appointment with Smith Family Dentistry for a TMJ evaluation with TMJ specialist Dr. Garry Smith.

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the jaw joint located in front of the ear. Some individuals suffer from TMJ issues where there is a clicking or displacement of the two meeting jaw bones.

Dr. Garry Smith is a TMJ specialist and his dental practice offers coordinated care with patients’ other medical providers including chiropractors.

TMJ – What is it?

The ear and the jaw joint are joined to each other in front of the ear and below the ear lobe.

Dental patients can the jaw joint move by placing a finger in front of the ear and moving your jaw from side to side or by opening it. The movement can also be felt inside the ear canal.

Before birth the small ear bones, which conduct sound, grow off from the jaw bone and migrate into the ear canal. There are ligaments and nerves which connect the ear and jaw.

As a result, jaw problems (TMJ) can cause ear problems and ear problems in return may cause jaw problems. Sometimes it is necessary for the patient to have both an ear and jaw examination to determine if they have TMJ.

The jaw joints, the lower jaw bones and the facial bones, gradually change shape and size throughout a person’s lifetime. The degree varies with each person.

Abnormal Growth Causing TMJ

These changes occur more rapidly if there are growth abnormalities, injuries, or diseases. Any change can cause the fit of the teeth to shift slightly.

If a person feels that his teeth do not fit together properly it is usually not due to tooth movement but rather to changes, which have occurred in the TMJ, jaw bones and face bones. Some of these changes are transient and some are permanent.

Usually changes in jaws and bite occur so gradually they aren’t noticed on a daily basis, until a person experiences TMJ pain due to mismatched or clicking joints.

The gradual changes cause facial changes and make some people look older than others. You, too, can see the effects of these changes by observing your parents or older family members or friends.

Orthopedic surgeons, and medical doctors specialize on joints in the body, but dentists specialize in TMJ joints and challenges. TMJ can cause teeth to not fit together properly or jaw joints to malfunction. The lower jaw is like a door which has hinges and a door jam.

If the door jam is not properly positioned, or is inadequate to stop the door correctly, the hinges will be damaged. The hinges will be twisted or pulled slightly out of place every time the door is shut.

Dr. Garry Smith

Dental Problems Causing TMJ

Likewise, if a person has missing teeth, worn out crowns, bridges or dentures, or if the teeth are out of alignment or crooked, the chance of TMJ problems increases.

Some types of malocclusion, such as severe overbite, nearly always seem to result in damage to the jaw joints. Likewise, there are certain combinations of missing jaw teeth, which also seem to result in damage to the jaw joints.

If a person has a diseased or displaced jaw joint and has surgery to correct the defect the surgery will likely fail if the teeth are not stable and properly aligned.

TMJ and Stress

Stress of any type affects jaw function. This is a well known fact.

Even in ancient literature we read:
“There shall be wailing and gnashing of the teeth.”

More recently, writings, include “He set his jaw and went forward to do what he had to do” – or – “He bit the bullet.”

Physical Stress
There are many types of stress that can cause TMJ including physical, emotional or bad habits of movements. Physical stress occurs as the result of a person being involved in too many activities. Consequently, sometimes jaw problems seem to get worse because of the physical stress of simply doing too much or stress.

Anxiety
Anxiety occurs when a patient becomes acutely frustrated due to unsolved issues such as their child being ill, a doctor cannot be reached or home issues. The smallest daily thing can cause anxiety as our lives are busy and that anxiety feeds us clinching our jaws without even noticing and it can last for years.

Conflicts and Other Stresses That Cause TMJ
Unresolved conflicts can be as serious as trying to quit smoking or attempting to buy clothes or apply to school, pay bills or the break off of a relationship. Discuss your stress with your dentist.

Dr. Garry Smith of Smith Family Dentistry in Fishers and Anderson discusses patients’ lives with them before treating TMJ. Some TMJ solutions involved dental appliances as well as resolution within a patient’s own personal struggle(s).

Therefore, management and control of stress is often an important part of successful treatment.

Learn more about TMJ treatments by reading Dr. Smith’s articles about nerve endings and treatments.

The holidays are known for sugary, sweet treats that are so yummy you’ll have trouble putting down the cinnamon rolls, pumpkin pie and marshmallow topped jello treats.

Visits to the dentist increase in January with new cavities, broken crowns – you name it. But you can PREVENT a dental visit with these simple tips.

How do sweet treats cause cavities?
When you eat sugary foods or drinks, the sugar content creates the perfect atmosphere in your moist mouth for bacteria to grow. It also creates acids that wear down the enamel making wake for weakening your teeth and making the teeth susceptible to tooth decay.

Long term eating habits with sugar in the diet can cause permanent damage to tooth enamel and increase cavities leading to root canals etc.

Be smart and eat healthy. We aren’t saying cut sugar we are simply saying don’t LIVE ON IT.

Sugar produces damaging acids which affect the teeth for at least 20 minutes afterwards.

“Brush and floss after sugary snacks and people really need to watch the energy drinks they are drinking at the gym. While they may boost energy unless they are zero carb they are probably packed with sugar,” said Dr. Garry L. Smith.

Quick Steps for Holiday Oral Care
The best way to avoid cavities while still enjoying your holiday indulgences is to practice good oral hygiene. Here are some tips to help:

1. Eating sugary or carbohydrate-rich foods as part of a balanced meal is better than eating them alone. The body produces more saliva to help digest larger meals, which washes away more food and helps neutralize harmful acids before they can attack teeth.

2. Foods that take a long time to chew can damage teeth. That’s because sticky foods, including nutritious choices like raisins, dates and dried fruit, hold acid against teeth longer than do other foods. Try to limit your consumption of these foods.

3. After consuming high-acid food (fruits) or drinks (wine), rinse with water before brushing your teeth to prevent tooth erosion from the acids.

Keep a toothbrush and travel-size toothpaste handy (for example, in your pocket or purse or store these in the glove compartment of your car) so that you can brush right after eating at holiday parties. An added benefit is that you are less likely to eat after you brush your teeth, so you may end up eating less at parties.
If you’re unable to brush your teeth after eating, rinsing your mouth thoroughly with water or chewing sugar-free gum will help to wash away food particles, produce more saliva and neutralize acids in your mouth

4.“Brush up” on your brushing technique. Brush for two minutes! YES 2 MINUTES OF BRUSHING will save you from unnecessary dental issues.

Vigorous brushing can actually inflame the gums. Be gentle, take your time. If you get into the habit of brushing for two to three minutes every morning, every night and after every meal during the holidays, you’ll be more likely to keep those good habits with your regular dental care routine.

We recommend every adult have the vizilite screening at least every one to three years. If you use tobacco, every year is recommended to be safe. Just because a lesion is seen does not mean it is oral cancer, but does indicate further testing be done (such as a biopsy).

You can request a Vizilite screening at your next dental appointment. This risk begins at the age of 18 and goes up accordingly with risk factors present. But remember, 25% of all oral cancers have no causative factor, so everyone is at risk!

We have a mouth rinse and tooth paste with Xylitol, CoQ10, folic acid and no alcohol for our patients to buy if they cannot find it in the stores. You will most likely find the chewing gum , mouth mints and oral spray in your health food stores. The daily recommended dose is 6 grams/ day. That is equivalent to 6 sticks of chewing gum or 10 oral mints.

we have been using the mouth rinse and tooth paste for several months and have seen very good results with patients with gum disease. Decay reduction in our decay prone patients will take longer to evaluate. The turn around time could be 1 -2 years in those patients, but we do see fewer patients with decay now.

Xyltiol will not “cure” decay that exists, those areas have to be restored by your dentist. But new decay can be prevented if the patient is compliant with oral hygiene recommendations and regular use of the Xylitol products.

For more information ,you may call either of our offices at 765-649-3388 or 317-578-1933.

Dr. Smith himself has tried the Breathe Easy Splint!
Diagnosed with severe sleep apnea, Dr. Garry L Smith of Anderson, Indiana tried the Breath Easy Splint and it reduced his “non-breathing” sleep episodes by more than 50%. His diagnosis changed to mild sleep apnea requiring no further treatments other than wearing the appliance. results vary

Dr. Smith wears his sleep apnea mouth appliance each night and is more rested and healthy. You can be too!

WHAT KIND OF APPLIANCE HELPS OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA(OSA)?

The less expensive and yet most effective sleep apnea appliance by AOA is called Breathe Easy Splint. Download the Breathe Easy Split information now!
 http://garrysmithdental.com/cms/wp-admin/edit.php
Advantages of Oral Appliance Therapy

• Oral appliances are comfortable and easy to wear even OSA appliances or splints.
• Oral appliances are convenient and easy for traveling.
• Treatment with oral appliances is non-invasive.

Following your at-home sleep test, we would take a model of your mouth, and have your AOA Breathe Easy Splint made. Then you could repeat your sleep test and see immediate results and improvements in not only the quality of your sleep but also a reduction in the dangerous breathing blockages you previously had while sleeping.
What About a C-PAP Sleep Apnea Machine?
You may be familiar with C-PAP machines for sleep apnea.  What you may NOT be aware of is a way to reduce your snoring and breathing issuesWITHOUT SURGERY – WITHOUT A MACHINE.

A dental appliance created for the specific purpose of addressing sleep apnea is comfortable to wear, moderately thicker than traditional appliances, an it fits inside your mouth of course.

YOU WILL BE AMAZED JUST LIKE DR. SMITH WAS.

DO I HAVE SLEEP APNEA? KNOW THE SIGNS

Sleep Apnea Signs:

• Unintentionally falling asleep during the day
• General daytime sleepiness
• Unrefreshed sleep
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Waking from sleep with a choking sound or gasping for breath
• Loud snoring

If you have have these symptoms, you might have sleep apnea. Schedule an appointment with your physician for a sleep test. You can have a simple home test run on your sleeping to monitor the seriousness of your sleep apnea and/or to diagnose it. A sleep specialist (physician) can prescribe the test, and some insurances cover the cost of the test or part of it.

For more information you may call either office location.
Fishers, IN: 317-578-1933
Anderson, IN: 765-649-3388

First, our office is mercury free. That means that we do not use mercury fillings in our office. We remove mercury fillings to the benefit  of the patients oral and bodily health. In fact many of our patients want the mercury removed because of the potential health issues.  We use tooth colored resin material that is BPA free. We all know or have heard of the danger of certain plastics. those  plastics  have BPA in it as the harmful ingredient. The 2 resin materials that we use are  BPA free.

Another Holistic improvement is using gluten free paste to clean your teeth. Gluten has long been known as a potentially harmful allergen. Therefore we do not use any materials in our office with gluten as an ingredient.

Finally, fluoride has mixed reviews as to value and efficiency. If you have a lot of decay, then fluoride is to be used to help  stop decay while we fix the problems. Other than that, fluoride is not administered unless the patient requests us to use it.

As Holistic Dentist, we look at your total body health as it relates to your mouth. So that means no BPA, no heavy metals in any form.