Preventing Strokes with Dental X-Rays (Panoramic Radiographs)

Routine dental radiographs may be an effective tool in preventing strokes, according to researchers at the University of Buffalo. Stroke victims usually receive no warning of the impending stroke, but dental radiographs can help spot potentially dangerous calcium buildups in the carotid arteries near both ends of the jawbone. These buildups can choke off blood to the brain and are a major cause of strokes.

Save the Date - Open House - April 2, 2014

Save the date! Join Dr. Williams, Dr. Villalobos and Staff on April 2nd, 2014 from 4:30-7:00 p.m. for an Open House! We will be having a food truck, drinks, door prizes, and a live DJ!

Please feel free to bring a friend! We look forward to seeing you there!
- Dr. Williams, Villalobos & Team

Do you Suffer from Sleep Apnea?

Do you struggle at getting a good night’s sleep?  You could be suffering from sleep apnea.  At the dental practice of Dr. Brian Williams, we specialize in sleep apnea and we may have a solution for you!

Dental appliances, oral devices, and lower jaw-positioners can be used.  The appliances are custom-made, positioned to fit into your mouth while you sleep and resemble an athletic mouthguard. They help open your airway by bringing your lower jaw or your tongue forward during sleep. To schedule a sleep apnea consultation, please call our office at (480) 889-1800.

Prescription Medications and Gum Disease

Gingival overgrowth (overgrowth of the gums) can be a side effect of many drugs including certain types of oral contraceptives, antidepressants, and heart medications. Any drug that has a side effect of dry mouth can increase the risk for gum disease. 

Be sure to discuss the medications you take with Dr. Brian Williams or your dentist at your dental appointments.

A Healthy Mouth Contributes to a Healthy Body!

Periodontal Disease & Cancer: Experts have been aware of a relationship between periodontal disease and cancer for some time now. However, studies are showing that there are even more potential cancer links than originally suspected. Not only can advanced gum disease possibly lead to oral, lung, pancreatic and upper gastrointestinal cancers, it may also be connected to breast cancer [sources: Meyer, et. al; Soder, et. al].

The Scottsdale Dental Practice of Dr. Brian Williams is Centered on Prevention & Health

We have centered our practice on prevention and health as opposed to one that simply emphasizes emergency and repair care. The supporting gum tissue and bone are just as vital as the teeth themselves. Unfortunately only lip service is paid to these important areas and prevention is often misunderstood and inadequately stressed.  The best way to protect and maintain the crucial supporting structures of your mouth for life is to have a qualified hygienist clean your teeth regularly, at which time preventive procedures can be implemented to protect your dental health. While the responsibility for returning for periodic preventive treatment lies with you, we will provide an ongoing program of health maintenance with you.

February is National Children's Dental Health Month

February is National Children's Dental Health Month.  Educate your children on the importance of good oral hygiene and stay on track with their regular dental check-ups!

If your child has never been to the dentist or is "due" for their regular check-up, contact our office to schedule an appointment today! (480) 889-1800

GLO TEETH WHITENING NOW AVAILABLE AT DR. BRIAN WILLIAMS SCOTTSDALE DENTAL OFFICE!

OUTSTANDING RESULTS WITH ZERO SENSITIVITY!
(AN EXCEPTIONAL PRODUCT IF YOU HAVE SENSITIVE TEETH.)

THE GLO WHITENING SYSTEM ALSO INCLUDES A "WHITENING PEN" FOR TOUCH-UPS! CONTACT OUR OFFICE TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR GLO CONSULTATION!
(480) 889-1800

Do your Gums Bleed when you Brush or Floss?

Bleeding gums are never normal. If your gums bleed when you brush, it could be a sign of gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease. It also could be something simple like brushing or flossing too hard. If your gums bleed regularly or enough to worry you, make an appointment with our office.

What are the Causes of Black Gums?

There are a variety of reasons for black gums and in most cases, the cause is not serious.  For example, amalgam tattoos are dark spots that may form around fillings, dentures, and crowns. This issue often looks like a blue or black tattoo in the mouth, and though it is not desirable to those seeking a perfect smile, it is also harmless. Of course, amalgam tattoos can be removed by a dentist if preferred. 

Calculus, which is a substance that can build up in the mouth when oral hygiene is lacking, can also cause dark areas on the gums.

Black gums may also be a symptom of acute necrotizing periodontal disease, also known as black gum disease. The black coloration is a result of dead tissue, or necrosis.

Black gums may also be a sign of malignant melanoma in the mouth, which is particularly difficult to treat. The good news is that dark gums can typically be avoided through sufficient oral hygiene that includes regular brushing, flossing, dental checkups, and avoidance of smoking and chewing tobacco. 

If you have black gums, it is best to be evaluated by a dentist to rule out the possibility of a serious cause.  Feel free to contact our office for an oral evaluation by Scottsdale dentist, Dr. Brian Williams.