What Foods Causes Tooth Decay in Children? 

Many different types of food can cause tooth decay in children, not just candy. Foods that are high in carbohydrates, as well as some fruits, juices and sodas, peanut butter, crackers and potato chips are culprits. Factors that cause tooth decay include the frequency in which the foods are eaten and the time they remain as particles in the mouth. 

Are children safe from soda and other beverages?  

Dentists believe that kids who consume too much soda and not enough nutritional beverages are prone to tooth decay in addition to serious ailments later in life, such as diabetes and osteoporosis. Drinking carbonated soft drinks regularly can contribute to the erosion of tooth enamel.  Enamel breakdown leads to cavities. If erosion spreads beneath the enamel, pain and sensitivity may eventually result. This can cause nerve infection, which can result in the need for a root canal. 

My children rarely drink soda. Are they still at risk for tooth decay?  

Yes. Any prolonged exposure to soda can cause damage. Sipping a soft drink all afternoon is more harmful to your teeth than drinking a large soda with a meal and then not drinking any soda for the rest of the day. While many dentists advocate drinking nutritional beverages, such as milk, many agree soda should be consumed from a can rather than a bottle with a replaceable cap to discourage prolonged exposure to soda. 

How can children prevent damage to their teeth?  

Children at school should rinse their mouth with water after meals, leaving their teeth free of sugar and acid. Children also should seek sources of fluoridation. If you purchase bottled water, be sure that it is fluoridated. Encourage children to drink tap or fountain water. Use a straw when drinking soda to keep sugar away from teeth. Remember, bottled juices are not a good alternative due to the high sugar content. Regular dental checkups, combined with brushing with fluoride toothpaste, also will help protect children’s teeth. 

How can I help my child prevent tooth decay?  

Parents should take their child to the dentist just after the first tooth appears. Brushing teeth after meals, regular flossing and fluoride treatments are the best ways to prevent tooth decay. Children should also be supervised as they brush. A good rule of thumb is that when children can dress themselves and tie their own shoes, then they are ready to brush unsupervised. Children should be supervised in proper flossing techniques until the age of 10. If you have any concerns about your child’s dental health or want some tips on preventing tooth decay, ask your dentist. 

Updated: February 2007

What is a Dental Implant?  

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is surgically anchored into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge in place. The benefit of using implants is that they don’t rely on neighboring teeth for support and they are permanent and stable. Implants are a good solution to tooth loss because they look and feel like natural teeth. 

Implant material is made from different types of metallic and bone-like ceramic materials that are compatible with body tissue. There are different types of dental implants: the first is placed directly into the jaw bone, like natural tooth roots; the second is used when the jaw structure is limited, therefore, a custom-made metal framework fits directly on the existing bone. 

How do they work?  

Strategically placed, implants can now be used to support permanently cemented bridges, eliminating the need for a denture. The cost tends to be greater, but the implants and bridges more closely resemble real teeth. 

Can anyone receive dental implants?  

Talk with your dentist about whether you are an implant candidate. You must be in good health and have the proper bone structure and healthy gums for the implant to stay in place. People who are unable to wear dentures may also be good candidates. If you suffer from chronic problems, such as clenching or bruxism, or systemic diseases, such as diabetes, the success rate for implants decreases dramatically. Additionally, people who smoke or drink alcohol may not be good candidates. 

What can I expect during this procedure?  

The dentist must perform surgery to anchor the “artificial root” into or on your jaw bone. The procedure is done in the dental office with local anesthesia. The gum is then secured over the implant, which will remain covered until it fuses with the bone. The dentist then uncovers the implant and attaches an extension, or post, to the implant. With some implants, the implant and post are a single unit placed in the mouth during the initial surgery. Finally, the dentist makes an artificial tooth, or crown, that is attached to the implant post. 

How long does the process take?  

The process can take up to nine months to complete. Each patient heals differently, so times will vary. After the implant and posts are placed surgically, the healing process can take up to six months and the fitting of replacement teeth no more than two months. Sometimes, if a patient has good bone quality, posts can be placed and replacement teeth fitted in one appointment. 

What is the success rate of implants? 

The success rate for implants depends on the tooth’s purpose and location in the mouth, as well as a patient’s overall health. 

How do I care for implants?  

Poor oral hygiene is a big reason why some implants fail. It is important to floss and brush around the fixtures at least twice a day. Your dentist will give you specific instructions on how to care for your new implants. Additional cleanings of up to four times per year may be necessary to ensure that you retain healthy gums. 

What is the cost of implants?  

Since implants involve surgery and are more involved, they cost more than traditional bridgework. However, some dental procedures and portions of the restoration may be covered by dental and medical insurance policies. Your dentist can help you with this process.

Updated: February 2007

More than 80 million people suffer from chronic halitosis, or bad breath. In most cases it originates from the gums and tongue. The odor is caused by wastes from bacteria in the mouth, the decay of food particles, other debris in your mouth and poor oral hygiene. The decay and debris produce a sulfur compound that causes the unpleasant odor.

What causes bad breath?

Bad breath is primarily caused by poor oral hygiene but can also be caused by retained food particles or gum disease.

Does bad breath come from other sources than the mouth?

Bad breath also may occur in people who have a medical infection, diabetes, kidney failure or a liver malfunction. Xerostomia (dry mouth) and tobacco also contribute to this problem. Cancer patients who undergo radiation therapy may experience dry mouth. Even stress, dieting, snoring, age and hormonal changes can have an effect on your breath. An odor that comes from the back of your tongue may indicate postnasal drip. This is where mucus secretion, which comes from the nose and moves down your throat, gets stuck on the tongue and causes an odor.

Why is saliva so important in the fight against bad breath?

Saliva is the key ingredient in your mouth that helps keep the odor under control because it helps wash away food particles and bacteria, the primary cause of bad breath. When you sleep, however, salivary glands slow down the production of saliva, allowing the bacteria to grow inside the mouth. To alleviate “morning mouth,” brush your teeth and eat a morning meal. Morning mouth also is associated with hunger or fasting. Those who skip breakfast, beware, because the odor may reappear even if you’ve brushed your teeth.

Do certain foods cause bad breath?

Very spicy foods, such as onions and garlic, and coffee may be detected on a person’s breath for up to 72 hours after digestion. Onions, for example, are absorbed by the stomach, and the odor is then excreted through the lungs. Studies even have shown that garlic rubbed on the soles of the feet can show up on the breath.

How do I control bad breath?

It is important to practice good oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day. Proper brushing, including brushing the tongue, cheeks and the roof of the mouth, will remove bacteria and food particles. Flossing removes accumulated bacteria, plaque and food that may be trapped between teeth. To alleviate odors, clean your tongue with your toothbrush or a tongue scraper, a plastic tool that scrapes away bacteria that builds on the tongue. Chewing sugar-free gum also may help control odor. If you have dentures or a removable appliance, such as a retainer or mouthguard, clean the appliance thoroughly before placing it back in your mouth. Before you use mouthrinses, deodorizing sprays or tablets, talk with your dentist, because these products only mask the odor temporarily and some products work better than others.

What is my dentist’s role?

Visit your dentist regularly, because checkups will help detect any physical problems. Checkups also help get rid of the plaque and bacteria that build up on your teeth. If you think that you suffer from bad breath, your dentist can help determine its source. He or she may ask you to schedule a separate appointment to find the source of the odor. Or, if your dentist believes that the problem is caused from a systemic (internal) source, such as an infection, he or she may refer you to your family physician or a specialist to help remedy the cause of the problem.

Updated: February 2007

Dr. Maes was born in Bozeman, raised in Anaconda, and graduated from Anaconda Central High School’s famed Class of 1970. He attended the University of Montana where he studied Chemistry , premedical science and played rugby. His dental education was received at the University of Minnesota. Follwing graduation, Dr. Maes joined the U.S. Navy and received additional clinical training in San Diego, California. He has practiced in Helena since 1981.

Dr. Maes has maintained active memberships in the American Dental Association, Montana Dental Association and Helena’s Fifth District Dental Society since 1981.Dr. Maes served as a clinical instructor in the Carroll College School of Dental Hygiene . He is a Fellow in the American College of Dentists, the International College of Dentists and is one of only seven Montana dentists to to have achieved a Mastership designation in the Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Maes is a past president of the Montana Academy of General Dentistry, has served as Regional Vice President for the Eleventh District of the Academy of General Dentistry and is the 1996 recipient of the prestigious Academy of General Dentistry Humanitarian Award for his work with Dr. John Smith in establishing the Helena Cooperative Dental Clinic which was founded to serve the indigent and working poor of Helena. In 2001, Dr. Maes received the Clinical Excellence Award from the Montana Dental Association. He currently serves as president of the Montana Chapter of The National Foundation of Dentistry for the Handicapped .

Dr. Maes enjoys landscape, sports and dental photography, bicycling, reading and keeping marine aquariums – one of which is a focal point in the office reception area. He is also an avid backpacker and hiker. Dr. Maes and his wife Stephanie enjoy cooking together, traveling, and attending performances of the Helena Symphony. Dr. Maes is the proud father of four sons, Jacob, Joshua, Jeffrey and Justin, two stepsons Taylor and Sam and one beautiful stepdaughter MacKenzie.

Dr. Katie Sealey joined her uncle in practice in July of 2006. Dr. Sealey grew up in Billings where she graduated from Skyview High School. She then attended Montana State University in Bozeman where she received her degree in English Literature in May of 2002. Dr. Sealey graduated with honors from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry in 2006. She received the Senior Student Dental Award from the Academy of General Denstry for clinical excellence in operative dentistry her senior year.

Dr. Sealey is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Dental Association, and the Montana Dental Association. She has served as secretary/treasurer of the 5th District Dental Society, and she is currently Co-president of the district. In addition, she is a member of the Montana Study Club and the Capital City Study Club. She participates in numerous other continuing education programs as well.

Dr. Sealey is a member of Rotary and Women’s Leadership Network. She graduated from the Helena Area Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Helena program and participates in the Young Professionals group. Dr. Sealey and her husband Jeff are a big couple with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Helena.

In her free time, Katie enjoys hiking, mountain biking and cross country skiing. She is also a novice fly fisherman, continuing a long family tradition of spending spring, summer and fall waist deep in Montana’s beautiful rivers and streams. Katie’s husband Jeff is local attorney. They have two gorgeous dogs who enjoy the trails of Helena even more than Katie and Jeff do.

Becky has been in the dental field for 11 years. She is a certified dental assistant and one of only five certified as a Dental Practice Management Administrator in Montana. Becky is also a member of the Certified Dental Association National Board. She was fortunate to have been trained by Dr. Sheldon Ivers in Great Falls. Dr. Ivers is a recipient of the Montana Dental Associations Clinical Excellence Award and is recognized as one of Montana’s finest dentists. Becky is a Helena native and a graduate of Helena High School.

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Kathy is a certified dental assistant who has been with South Hills Dental since 2006. She has been caring for patients for the past 32 years. Prior to joing the team at South Hills Dental, Kathy worked as a pediatric dental assistant at Dr. John Jost’s office for 28 years. Kathy graduated from the Great Falls Vo-tech with a certification in dental assisting. She possess a life membership in the National Dental Assistant Association. She is certified in coronal polishing and is a member of the American Dental Assistant Association.

Marlene, originally from Butte, now calls Helena her home. Marlene worked for Dr. Stephen Walters prior to coming to South Hills Dental. Marlene’s love for people is obvious. You will be greeted with a welcoming smile and will feel at home when you walk in the door. Marlene looks forward to seeing you.

Mary W. was born and raised in Montana. She has been married since 1983. During 23 of those years, her husband served with the US Army. She volunteered for the Red Cross as a dental assistant and has been working in dental front office operations for eight years. Mary is very knowledgeable about dental insurance programs. Mary and her husband have two grown children.

Patty has been fortunate to have worked in the dental field since 1986. During that time, she has worked in general dentistry as well as in periodontics and implant dentistry. Her experience ranges from dental assisting to bookkeeping. She has been married to her best friend since 1982 and has 2 beautiful children and a gorgeous grandson

Shelly is a Montana native. She grew up in Montana City. Shelly has worked in the dental field since 1987. She started working for Dr. Maes in 2001 as a dental assistant and has been the office manager since 2006. She enjoys camping, fishing, boating and reading. She is married and has a son and two daughters.

Connie has been a dental hygienist for South Hills Dental since August of 1989. She graduated from Carroll College in 1978. Prior to returning to college, she worked 10 years as a chair-side dental assistant. Connie started as a temporary for Dr. Maes in 1989 and never left. Connie has served a variety of positions within the Montana Dental Hygiene Association. She also enjoyed being a clinical instructor for 3 years at Carroll College before the program closed. She grew up in Miles City and Billings. Connie has two grown children, both married and now raising her three grandchildren. Connie enjoys each day with the love of her life – Nick. She has 2 cats and one crazy little dog named Koko Loco! In her spare time, she loves to travel, garden, walk, and boat.

Desiree is a dental hygienist. She has been with South Hills Dental since 2006. She graduated with her BS in dental hygiene from Minnesota State University in May of 2007. She moved to Helena in September of 2007. She is currently the Helena Component Trustee for the Montana Dental Hygiene Association. She has been a member of the Montana/Minnesota Air National Guard since 2002 where she works in the maintenance squadron. She enjoys anything outside during the summer like hiking, camping and floating the rivers. She also likes to read a good mystery book and is starting to get interested in photography and possibly triathlons.

Lisa is a dental hygienist. She has been with South Hills Dental since 1998. She started her career in the dental field as a dental assistant in 1986. She began her dental hygiene education in 1989. She is licensed and has practiced dental hygiene in both Washington state, where she attended school, and Montana. She is very involved with the Montana Dental Hygienists Association and is currently the President-elect. She feels blessed every day to have dental hygiene as her career.

Parrish is a dental hygienist. She has been with South Hills Dental since 2006. She grew up in a small town north of Spokane, Washington. Shortly after earning her Bachelor of Science degree in dental hygiene at Eastern Washington University in 2004, she met her husband and moved to Helena to raise their five children. She loves people and enjoys playing and coaching volleyball and basketball. She also enjoys hiking in this beautiful place we live.