Cases of lyme disease have been going up in the last few years. Preventing the disease should be priority when going outdoors. In case a patient does become infected there are signs and symptoms a dentist can follow to aid in combating the disease. Signs of possible infection are headaches, TMJ pain and nonspecific pain. New ADA guidelines for detecting lyme disease were released recently. To read the full article click here.

“Sometimes the dental patient may present nonspecific orofacial pain and headaches that can mimic temporomandibular joint pain. Dentists should consider Lyme disease as a possible cause if a patient presents these or related symptoms and has no specific oral health problem. These patients should be referred to a physician.” – Dr. Stacey Van Scoyoc

As a dental professional I do believe in the benefits of fluoride. Controlling tooth decay economically makes more sense as is maintaining a healthy oral environment for total overall health. Yes, there are risks if you consume too much but the benefits outweigh the risks in controlling decay especially if used accordingly.

This is a good article on the definition of dental caries, fluoride use and it’s benefits in fighting tooth decay. This is from the Centers for Disease Control. Click here to access the article.