Dr. Larry James Offers TMJ Treatments

TMD, or temporomandibular joint disorder, can be a pain in the jaw, literally.  Have you been experiencing frequent headaches, earaches, or fatigue?  Does your jaw pop often or has it been difficult to open your mouth fully at times?  If so, it's possible that you could be experiencing problems with your TMJ, or temporomandibular joint.  The temporomandibular joint is the hinge joint that connects your lower jaw to the temporal bone of your skull.  The temporal bone is right in front of your ear.  Temporomandibular joint disorders can be caused by grinding or clenching your teeth, a dislocation of the joint, arthritis in the TMJ, arthritis in the TMJ, or injuries to the jaw, head, or neck.  For example, if you have been in a car accident and experienced a serious blow or whiplash, it's possible that could be the cause of your TMD.  Here is some more information if you would like to read further on TMD.  

So what do you do if you know you have a TMD?  Good question!  You can actually receive TMJ treatments that will depend on the severity of your disorder.  If you are living in the Tulsa, Oklahoma area and experiencing TMJ problems, you can call or visit Dr. Larry James, a Tulsa dentist with specialized experience in treating TMJ disorders.  Don't put off making an appointment!  The longer you wait, the more severe your disorder could be come.  Save your self some pain by setting up and appointment with Dr. Larry James today!  Dr. Larry James will identify and diagnose the problem, and then put TMJ treatments in place that will give your TMJ some relief.  The sooner these treatments begin, the quicker you will experience relief!

For TMJ treatments, cosmetic dentistry, or just general dentistry, visit Dr. Larry James!  Dr. Larry James is a specialized, friendly dentist in Tulsa, Oklahoma who truly cares about providing customers with quality service and a relaxing environment.  Whatever your dental needs may be, don't hesitate to call or visit Dr. Larry James today!

An Apple a Day Keeps the Dentist Away

We have all heard it said that "an apple a day keeps the doctor away."  But did you know that eating an apple every day can also help keep the dentist away?  This is not a myth.  Your parents weren't lying when they said to eat your fruits and vegetables.  Fresh fruits keep your teeth happy and healthy, especially apples.  Apples help reduce the build-up of cavity causing bacteria and keep your gums in good shape!  So how about packing an apple in your lunch every day along with your children's lunches?  Getting in the habit of eating just one apple every day can give you a healthier mouth and keep you out of the dentist's office.  But don't give your kids juice boxes!  Juice boxes can actually cause tooth decay because of the added sugar.  Do yourself and your kids a favor by getting them in the habit of eating fresh fruits with their meals rather than sugary drinks.

Dr. Larry F. James is a Tulsa dentist devoted to helping give his customers a less painful and more beautiful smile.  If you are experiencing tooth aches and pains or are unsatisfied with the way your teeth look, Dr. Larry F. James would be happy to give you the treatment you need coupled with an enjoyable experience.  For the best Tulsa dentist, contact Larry F. James today!

Time's Up: Tooth-brushing Training for Your Children

We all know the drill.  Brush your teeth several times a day.  However, most of are always in a rush and taking care of our mouths turns into brushing our teeth as quickly as possible and heading for the door.  But brushing out teeth can actually not be very effective if it is done quickly.  Each person should spend at least two minutes every time they brush their teeth.  Spending just a couple of minutes on your teeth can keep them healthier in the long-run!  Now, with your children, it may be a little bit more of a challenge to keep them in the bathroom that long.  Don't you wish there was some sort of gadget you could get that would keep your children entertained as well as train them to brush their teeth every time for the two minutes?  Well now there is!  Trendy Kid  has come up with a handy device called the Wash and Brush Timer that teaches kids the appropriate time for washing their hands and brushing their teeth.  This little gadget will get your child excited to do both!  You can easily get this timer on Amazon for a cheap price!  How great to pay so little for such a long-term investment!

Dr. Larry F. James is a general and cosmetic practitioner out of Tulsa, Oklahoma.  Dr. Larry F. James and his dental specialists genuinely care about the dental concerns of their patients.  To get the smile you have been waiting for, call or visit Dr. Larry F. James dental office today!

Diet Soda & Your Teeth

So, you've given up on that sugary substance known as soda pop once and for all - instead switching over to diet soda. You've scrapped the sugar and calories you're feeling pretty good about making a health decision. What if someone told you that your health decision isn't all that much better? 


In addition to continuing to stain your teeth, diet soda is still just as acidic as it's sugary counterpart. You'll never see a dentist cringe quite so much as you would from seeing them experience someone claiming diet soda is a healthy alternative to regular pop. Far from a healthy beverage, drinkers of diet colas should still be careful to maintain their dental hygiene just as they would with normal soda drinks. While you do escape the sugar associated with the carbonated beverage, everything else remains - including the enamel-destroying acid! Though it may end up helping you slim down your waist, diet soda and your teeth are not the best combination. 

Tulsa dentist Dr. Larry James, D.D.S. is pleased to bring you quality dental care. For a dentist Tulsa residents have been smiling about yearly a quarter-century, look no further than Dr. Larry James! 

There's Nothing To Fear With Tulsa Dentist Dr. Larry James

Of all of the aspects of going to the dentist that scare patients the most, the fear of the unknown ranks up there with the best of them. Just the sounds that occur from the next room can send shivers down people's spines even when the patients aren't feeling any pain. In this commercial for the TV-to-Computer system from Slingbox, one patient is scared right out of the door over nothing. 

Don't let your fears get the best of you! You're in good hands with Tulsa dentist Dr. Larry James, D.D.S. From family dentistry to cosmetic dentistry and restoration dentistry, Dr. Larry James has been the dentist Tulsa trusts with their smiles since 1988. Book an appointment today! 

Sweet Tooth

Even though dentists don't usually recommend indulging in the sweets, this next treat is sure to catch the attention of any dentist. Made by cupcake artist Kristin Ferrell, these delectable dentures are fully edible and apparently difficult to keep in stock! 


For the dentist Tulsa trusts, Dr. Larry James D.D.S. is pleased to provide quality dentistry to Oklahoma. Enjoy the Tulsa dentist services of the best from the offices of Dr. Larry James. D.D.S. 

A Car That Art Fans Can Sink Their Teeth Into: The ChewBaru

Most people have heard of a Subaru, but have you ever heard of a Chewbaru? One group of dental enthusiasts decided to transform a humdrum Subaru sedan into a work of art. Using everything from actual tubes of toothpaste to real extracted teeth, the Chewbaru has been featured in many art shows and car shows alike! 


Not much of a car drive for Tulsa, OK patients, Tulsa dentist Dr. Larry James, D.D.S. is pleased to be a dentist Tulsa patients look to for quality dental work. 

The Tooth Mechanics of India

What if you could get your teeth fixed in the same way you might get your shoes shined? In other parts of the world, including India, many poor people cannot afford the latest technology. Because of this, they depend on the help of street dentists or "tooth mechanics" to pull teeth, fashion dentures, and perform other dental procedures. While the dental authorities abhor this method of dentistry, many of the poor are grateful for this work they perform. Still, all of these procedures are on a strict "at your own risk" policy with no accountability to the street dentists involved.

For a dentist Tulsa residents know and trust, look no further than Tulsa dentist Dr. Larry James, D.D.S. for quality general dentistry, restorative dentistry, and cosmetic dentist every time.

Tooth-Pulling Reaches New Heights

We've all been there: your baby teeth are coming out, but there's just that last yank that needs to take place in order to have the tooth fully removed. While most families have their traditional methods, from just a fast yank to tie a string to a door handle and slamming the door, this young boy decided to take tooth-pulling to new heights. Equipped with string, a baby-tooth ready to come out, and a rocket, he connected all three and sent the rocket flying along with his tooth. 

For more traditional methods of dentistry, Tulsa dentist Dr. Larry James is pleased to provide patients with quality dentistry. For a dentist Tulsa knows and trusts, look no further than Dr. Larry James, D.D.S.

Hedley & Wyche: British Tooth Paste

As Saturday Night Live has changed their cast many times over the years, many pine for the glory days with comedy greats like Mike Myers and Chris Farley. Showing just why they were so treasured, the two parody the stereotype that British people have bad teeth. Just for the record, Dr. Larry James D.D.S. does not condone the use the sugar in toothpaste unless you absolutely want your teeth coming out like these "chaps."

For a professional dentist Tulsa patients known and trust, look no further than the expertise of Tulsa dentist Dr. Larry James, D.D.S. 

Don't Be An Anti-Dentite.

The show that was determined to be the #1 reason why the "the '90s ruled" by E!, the hit sitcom "Seinfeld" delved into a number of subjects. Here, Kramer, as played by Michael Richards, calls out Jerry, as played by Jerry Seinfeld, on being anti-dentist; or "anti-dentite", as he refers to the dental bigotry. Here at the offices Tulsa dentist of Dr. Larry James, D.D.S., we are here to remind everyone that they have nothing to fear from dentists. They are people just like everyone else. For a dentist Tulsa residents know and trust, Dr. Larry James, D.D.S. is thrilled to be your go-to dentist. 

The Fight Against Moral and Oral Decay: Vermin Supreme

While Dr. Larry James is adamant about dental health, he's not nearly as tyrannical about brushing and flossing as Vermin Supreme; one of the candidates for the President of the United States in the New Hampshire Democratic Party Primary. Vermin Supreme was the only candidate on the ballot in favor of mandatory tooth-brushing laws that would create the Secret Dental Police who have the authority to kick down citizen's doors at 3am to see if they've brushed. While officially on the ballot, Vermin Supreme is more of a political satirist out to prove a point. No matter who you support, as we head into the 2012 election, remember to brush and floss so, in the words of Vermin Supreme, we can be a "sea of shining smiles from sea to shining sea." 

For the dentist Tulsa  families know and trust, look to Dr. Larry James, D.D.S. From general dentistry to restorative and cosmetic dentistry, Tulsa dentist Dr. Larry James, D.D.S. is thrilled to help give your family dazzling smiles for many years to come. 

Kids Get Their Fill of Dr. Drill-N-Fill

While many kids fear going the dentist, one toy on the market may help ease fears by putting youngsters on the other side of the tray. With Play-Doh's Dr. Drill-N-Fill, kids are invited to craft teeth out of Play-Doh, drill decayed tooth matter (don't worry, it's still just Play-Doh), and fill teeth with amalgam-colored Play-Doh fillings. Kids can even craft braces to apply to the teeth. While this seems strange to some adults, evidently this is actually a hit amongst kids. As many kids dream of becoming professional athletes, police, and firemen, one question remains; will this toy inspire an upcoming generation of dentists? Who knows! 

For the family dentist Tulsa residents know and trust, Dr. Larry James, D.D.S. is thrilled at the prospect of being the Tulsa dentist your family goes to for general dentistry, restorative dentistry, and cosmetic dentistry.

Are You Flossing Correctly?

If you've ever been to the dentist, there is a good chance that you've been given a lecture on not flossing enough. Though most people tend to zone out or even nod off during this lecture, some of these same individuals are destined to return to have cavities filled that could have been easily prevented with a regular flossing regimen. Even when people do floss, some do not floss properly in order to see real benefits. So, though you could have picked this up while in the dentist's chair had you not been tuning out the flossing lecture, do you know if you're flossing properly? 


When to floss. 
Though some may look at you funny for flossing before you brush, this is actually the most recommended method of flossing. Individuals with any concern for their dental health are encouraged to add flossing to their nightly dental ritual just before brushing. By brushing before you floss, you help free up particles of food, plaque, and other debris caught between teeth in order for your tooth brush to give such material the one-two punch out of your mouth. After brushing, some form of mouth rinse is recommended in order to rid the mouth of the particles you just flossed and brushed out from behind nooks and crannies in the mouth. 

What to floss to use. 
While dentists will say "any floss is better than no floss", the best floss or flossing device is the floss that you'll actually want to use. At times, pulling out the floss, properly wrapping it around your fingers, and pushing your fingers into the hard-to-reach areas of your mouth can seem like far too much work; especially if there are no particles evident upon looking in the mirror. In order to remedy this, there are many disposable floss picks on the market that take the hassle out of finger-wrapping and keep your digits out of your mouth. Though these picks can cost just a little bit more than the average box of floss, they're still much cheaper than taking time off work, school, or away from other activities to have a cavity drilled and filled with a filling that will someday have to be replaced. 

Few people actually understand how closely the health of the teeth and gums are tied to other aspects of the body. Gum infections can result in pain, tooth loss, and infections can spread to other parts of the body; some of which, when infected, can be potentially life-threatening. Flossing properly takes 2 minutes at the most and has the ability to greatly improve one's dental health. Flossing becomes much less of a burden when it becomes a habit and will usually become an activity that you look forward to doing in order to restore "that clean feeling" to your mouth before bedtime. 

For more information on how to floss properly, Coast Dental answers many dental floss questions the average floss user (or non-user). For a reliable family dentist Tulsa, OK dental patients know and trust, look no further and Tulsa dentist Dr. Larry James, D.D.S., for all your dental needs. 

13 "Old School" Dental Instruments That Will Make You Glad You Weren't Around Back Then

If the sound of the modern dental drill sends shivers down your spine, try the sound of two pieces of wood rubbing together with a strand of leather used to hollow out your teeth with no anesthetic. While today's dental devices can creep out the most hardened individuals, yesterday's dental instruments can even make dentists wince. From a cocaine-injecting crank-syringe to a pliers that, when twisted to extract a tooth, sometimes accidentally broke the patient's jaw, the blog of Dental Assistants Schools has 13 of the creepiest  "old school" dental instruments. If any of these tools scare you, be aware that modern dental instruments pale in comparison. With virtually no pain and very little discomfort, Tulsa dentist Dr. Larry James, D.D.S. and his experienced dental staff can perform many cosmetic and restorative dental procedures to have you showing off your smile at every opportunity. Experience all the comforts of modern technology from dentist Tulsa trusts to deliver quality family dentistry at the office of Dr. Larry James, D.D.S. 

Are You Brushing Correctly?

In many instances, people are happy enough with simply getting around to brushing their teeth. Few brushers think all too much about how their brushing habits could be harming their teeth or what that said happens entail for their dental health. From the Huffington Post's Dental Health page comes a write up on how many people are actually doing their teeth a disservice by how they treat their pearly whites. From not brushing in the right motion, not brushing long enough, to using the wrong toothpaste or tootbrush, Huffington Post's Health Living specialist Amanda Schupak chronicles where most people aren't doing all that they can to ensure a healthy brushing experience. For more information on Tulsa family dentistry, visit the official site of Tulsa dentist Dr. Larry James. Proud to be the dentist Tulsa trusts with a whole range of procedures, Dr. Larry James and his staff of experienced dental professionals are dedicated to brightening Tulsa's smiles. 

Tunes in the Chair: Music Therapy for Dental Procedures

Scientists have long been studying the effects of music on the human psyche and how it can serve a therapeutic function, but it hasn't been till recently that researchers have turned their attention to dental-specific music therapy. With advances in noise-canceling headphones and music designed to induce a light and positive feeling, music therapy buffs have been able to tailor music to the desired results with reasonable success. Though the music varies from person to person, music therapy researchers and dentists recommend that dental patients try and find out what music most soothes them for the best desired results for their next dental appointment. Other factors, such as understanding the positive results of the dental procedure as well as getting to know the dentist who is going to be performing said procedure, are other ways patients can further relax when placed into a dental situation that would usually be filled with anxiety. For more information, check out this write up from iDentalHub.com for further tips on how to calm dental fear. For a more-than-capable Tulsa dentist, visit the official website of the dentist Tulsa patients have trusted for years at Dr. Larry James, D.D.S. 

Einstein Makes an Impression

Rumored to have been one of the most intelligent people who had ever lived, there have been many studies done on the inner-workings of Albert Einstein's brain. Still, within all of these endeavors of neural research of the Father of Relativity, not much study has done on the genius' teeth. From the blog of Stephan Pohlmann come one of the first looks at the professor's famous teeth. In Haddasah Hospital and University rests a copy of the famous minds' dental impressions along with a letter. To read the letter and get another look at some of the most famous dental impressions, check out Pohlmann's blog of the dental universe. 



For more information quality family dentistry in the Tulsa area, log on to the official website of Dr. Larry James, D.D.S.

Running Out AFTER a Tooth Extraction?

It's too bad that dental offices don't trade for teeth for services or else this next report might have wound up a tad less painful! 



According to the online newspaper Neagle.com, Pike County, Pennsylvania resident Jay Meyerhoff was taken to court for robbing a local dentist. What exactly did he steal from the dentist at Horizon Dental? A tooth extraction. According to the dentist's office, Mr. Meyerhoff entered the offices just like any other patient. He sat down and filled out the paperwork; giving the office staff no reason to believe anything was amiss. On his paperwork, however, Meyerhoff put down his name as James R. Irving, and the procedure of having a wisdom tooth extracted started off without a hitch after Meyerhoff told the staff that he would be paying for procedure with a check. Following the procedure, Meyerhoff reportedly told the office staff that he had left his checkbook in his car, headed out the door, and never came back. Investigators tracked down Meyerhoff shortly after based on evidence he had left with another dentists' office - his photograph. Meyerhoff is currently serving a year in state prison for Theft of Services after having run out on his $322.00 wisdom tooth extraction bill. 


Was a free ride in the chair worth a year in prison? You tell us! For quality dental services for the whole family, trust the experts at Dr. Larry James, D.D.S. to bring bright smiles all over Tulsa, OK and beyond. 

Breaking the Habit: Stopping Thumb Sucking Before It's Too Late

Many children engage in some form of thumb sucking at an early age. The behavior acts as a calming practice when children are either upset, tired, or just bored. Aside from it being an annoying habit for parents to witness in older children, the habit of thumb sucking can be detrimental to the alignment of a child's teeth. Because children are sucking their thumbs while they only have baby teeth, not much thought is typically given by parents to the consequences of allowing the practice to carry on from infancy into later childhood. Damage to the alignment of the permanent teeth can occur even before the child starts losing their baby teeth. After that point, realigning the teeth can take months, if not years of orthodontic treatment which can be very uncomfortable for the child and leave the parents with orthodontic costs that can soar into the thousands of dollars.

There are many different ways to help your children break the thumb-sucking habit. Of course, each method has varying degrees of success depending on the child. 

• Don't let them start. Some professionals recommend trying to get children accustomed to using pacifiers from early infancy when they become fussy and are in need of nurturing. Though many parents give up on getting their babies to take a pacifier because it can seem quite difficult initially, the hard work pays off in the future. As the baby becomes accustomed to using a pacifier, they will go towards it instead of their thumb. As they exceed the age of innocent pacifier use and thumb-sucking, a pacifier can be taken away with only some fussiness to get over. An object taken away is always easier for a child to get cope with than trying to break a once-acceptable habit. 

• Say "yay!" over nay. Instead of telling a child that they are no longer allowed to suck their thumb, some parents opt for using positive reinforcement to encourage children to stop sucking their thumb. By congratulating children on their lack of thumb sucking or giving them some form of small reward or privilege for not sucking their thumb, this makes the child want to break the habit on their own. Because this method requires an actual change in behavior by means of positive reinforcement only, it may take more time with varying degrees of success depending on the child. 
  

• Make it unappealing. By making thumb-sucking an unpleasant experience for children, this will remove the soothing benefit children derive from the habit. Since children most frequently suck their thumbs in their sleep, some parents find that having the child wear gloves during bed time and nap time makes thumb sucking difficult if not unpleasant. Some other parents find success by applying an apple cider vinegar solution to their children's thumbs that gives the child's thumbs a very unpleasant taste. There are a variety of bad-tasting non-toxic solutions on the market specifically for this purpose. Over time, you can stop using gloves or a bad-tasting solution and remind the child that if they continue to suck their thumbs, you'll apply the gloves or "yucky" solutions once again. This is frequently enough deterrent to get them break the habit.

For more encouragement in getting your children to quit sucking their thumbs, consult parents who waited too long and are now the orthodontists' favorite customers! To discover more information about the effects of thumb-sucking into later childhood, peruse this special post from TLC Family. To schedule an appointment or to find more information on specialized dental practices, visit the official website of Tulsa's own Dr. Larry James, D.D.S. for quality family dentistry.

Top Ten Reasons Why People Dislike the Dentist

When it comes to going to dentists, people aren't typically skipping through the door of their local dental experts; even when they're in pain! Though the modern dental experience is virtually pain free, this doesn't keep people from having anxiety about even the most routine trip to the dentist. From the idea of pain to the feeling of being ridiculed for one's lack of flossing, all of these variables combine to make to people favor a trip to the DMV above the going to the dentist. Though there is absolutely no way of shaking these predetermined notions for some people, it is important dentist-dodgers to know how far modern dentistry has come just within the past 10 years of lessening patient discomfort and providing a much more pleasant dental experience. For a list of the ten things people hate about going to the dentists and why they are not a reason to avoid going to the dentist, check out this blog from HateDentists.com. For the most comfortable dental experience in the Tulsa area, seek the services of Tulsa dentist Dr. Larry James. 

Dental Thought Innovation

Though there have been many breakthroughs in dental innovation, the least of these breakthroughs have been in the technology available to dentists, hygienists, and patients. For the most part, the biggest dental breakthroughs have been in a shift of focus from the dental practices of our parents' and grandparents' generation to the practices of today. Many dentists of yesteryear were primarily focused on fixing problems as they would occur and a lot of them didn't even have dental hygienists on staff! As a new generation of kids grow up to become dental hygienists and dentists, the focus has been shifted from how to fix damage that occurs  in the wake of gum disease and tooth decay to how to prevent damage that occurs from gum disease and tooth decay. Where dental hygienists were simply the dentist's assistants, hygienists of today play the crucial role of identifying where patients are lacking in their dental health and showing them what they can do to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. They have a unique responsibility that they previously didn't receive as much acclaim for. According to the amount of people who are keeping their teeth further into their lives with fewer problems, one can rightfully say they're doing a great job! 


For a very clever write-up on the roles of dental hygienists and dentists both in the past and present, read this article from Dr. Joe Bulger of Toronto, Canada. In order to discover how you can better your oral hygiene habits or fix past dental damage, visit the official website of Tulsa, OK's own Dr. Larry James, D.D.S. today!

A Founding Father's False Teeth

As children in American schools learn about their country's history and the figures who helped create the America they know and enjoy today, some of the details they may be learning have the potential to be myths or legends. In the instance of the first president of the United States, George Washington, a popular myth is that he wore wooden teeth. While the president did not wear wooden teeth, the real story behind the president's false teeth may seem more strange than the original myth.



America's first president did not have an easy time with dental hygiene. Though part of this was his own fault, many of the problems could be traced back to the lack of knowledge of dental hygiene and dentistry at the time. Different mouth rinses and tooth powders that were advertised to be beneficial to one's teeth were later found to frequently contain ingredients that actually had the ability to strip the enamel from teeth and poison the gums. Washington began losing his teeth around age 22 and by the time he took the office of President of the United States in 1789, he only had a single tooth left in his mouth. Some historians have theorized that the president's inaugural address was short because of the tremendous amount of pain he was in thanks to his poor dental health. Known to be a man of short fuse, some historians ponder the possibility of his dental pain to have contributed to his quick temper.

One set of George Washington's famous dentures.

Multiple dentists of the time period were known to have fashioned dentures for Washington over the span of his life. Though none were crafted from wood, many others contained human and cow teeth affixed in materials such as hippo ivory, gold, brass, or even lead. A pair of springs pushing against one another provided the pressure needed to keep the dentures in Washington's mouth. The first president was known to suffer much discomfort from the dentures and they were known to give his mouth a bulky appearance.


One of the only existing sets of George Washington's dentures are on display at his Mount Vernon estate. For more information on Washington's dental health and his array of dentures, check out this article from American Revolution. For additional information on how keep your teeth healthy, visit the official site of Dr. Larry James, D.D.S.; bringing the brightest smiles to Tulsa, OK and the surrounding areas. 

Why Hitler Rarely Smiled

Adolf Hitler, possibly pouting over an
upcoming dentist appointment.

During World War II, one of the most sought after bits of information the Allies wanted about Adolf Hitler, the megalomaniacal leader of the Third Reich, in addition to his whereabouts and plans for the future were his dental records. While the Allies were not particularly concerned about whether or not the dictator had been flossing every day, the Fuehrer's dental records were one of the only ways they would be able to accurately identify his remains in the event of his demise. Fortunately for them, Hitler had a secret that would end up helping them in the long run: Hitler was terrified of going to the dentist. 


When most think of Adolf Hitler, the tyrannical supreme chancellor of Nazi Germany, they usually don't think of a guy who was scared of going to the dentist. According to a medical review of Hitler's dental records in addition to notes from his personal dentist, Johannes Blaschke, Hitler was terrified of going to the dentist and evidence of this could be seen in his mouth. Additional reports claim that Hitler would start crying before he ever got to the dentist's chair. According to a story from Daily Mail, Hitler had his dentist extend a relatively routine root canal procedure to take 8 days because "he couldn't stand the pain." The dentist reported that Hitler had "terribly bad breath, abscesses and gum disease" and that he had to fill ten cavities in his mouth in 1944 alone. His dentist attributed the terrible state of his teeth to a very poor diet early in life in addition to a failure to keep up with his personal oral hygiene.


With advances in dental technology, there is no longer any reason to fear the dentist's chair. Still, the very best way to help limit your time in the dentist's chair is by regular brushing, flossing, and a recommended dental cleaning with exam every 6 months. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Larry James, D.D.S., and stay on top of top of your dental health.


Here is a special message from Dr. Larry James, D.D.S. regarding this topic: 


"My father fought in WW II. My godparents were Russian Jews. My godfather was son to the last candymaker to Czar Nicholas. This is an interesting point from history.  We can't ignore the past, even when it's unpleasant. However, we can lose any sympathy for this man having abscessed teeth."



For a look at a drawing Hitler's dental records, click here. Disclaimer: it isn't pretty. 

"I'm Gonna Make a Million Dollars and Buy You a House."

When it comes to having teeth extracted, most people's greatest fears are of any potential pain endured from the procedure, but as Chaddy (the above featured teenager immediately after his extraction) discovered, you have more to fear from friends with video cameras who document your silly behavior while still under the influence of the anesthesia. In the video, Chaddy makes some very large promises to his parents and becomes increasingly emotional when discussing the topic of eating ice cream with his father. It's too bad this footage has already gone viral on the internet otherwise chatty Chaddy's parent could have used it to blackmail him into doing his chores. 


For more a more in-depth breakdown of the video, check out the Huffington Post's coverage of the video. In order to determine if this could possibly happen to you, visit the official website of Tulsa's own Dr. Larry James and schedule your next dental appointment. 

What's In a Filling?

So, you have a cavity and it needs to be filled. When a cavity is detected and needs to be filled, there is a growing array of material that can be used. Still, with advances in the types of material that can used to fill a cavity, the two most popular materials are dental amalgam or resin composite. 

For over 150 years, dentists have used dental amalgam to fill cavities in teeth. Most popularly referred to a metal, gold, or silver filling, the amalgam used in fillings is most commonly a combination of silver, tin, copper, and mercury. Mercury makes up around 50% of the filling and is used to bind the other metals together which adhere to tooth using a dental cement-like material. It is a favorite amongst patients for its less expensive price tag and extensive lifespan. It is a favorite amongst dentists because of its ease of use. Dental amalgam is most popular for filling cavities in the back of the mouth. For front teeth, a composite resin is much more popular for its aesthetic value. 


Composite resin is a tooth-like material most commonly used where the material would be visible. It is most primarily composed of a mixture of powdered glass, plastic resin, and ceramic compounds. Though it is not nearly as strong as dental amalgam and are more expensive, many favor the material when the cavity needing to be filled is in a visible area.


Before you have your cavities filled, discuss your options for what materials are available for your dental filling. For an additional overview of filling material, check out this post from Delta Dental. If it's been a while since you've last had your teeth examined for cavities and other problems, contact the dental professionals at the Tulsa offices of Dr. Larry James, D.D.S.. Catching problems early makes it easier, less costly, and possibly less painful to reverse. In order to have your teeth examined by the best, contact the Tulsa's dental professionals at Dr. Larry James, D.D.S..   

Is Chewing Ice Bad For Your Teeth?

In America, having ice in one's drink is a luxury we're all accustomed to. With this, many have a habit munching on the ice left over from a drink as soon as we're finished with the drink. Though typically not painful, is chewing ice back for teeth? According to the site General Medicine, chewing of ice is, in fact, potentially damaging to the enamel, roots, and existing fillings, caps, or crowns in the mouth. While one crunch does not seem to cause much damage, habitual crunching on ice puts additional wear on teeth from chewing on a substance harder than teeth were meant to chew on. Though little damage occurs from having ice in one's mouth because it is usually melted by saliva, chewing on ice can lead to much more serious problems down the road. For more information proper dental health, to get your teeth cleaned, or additional work done in a friendly and comfortable atmosphere, check in with the Tulsa dental professionals at Dr. Larry James DDS and schedule your appointment today!

New Dental Procedure "Fills" a Need

Tired of having to have those fillings replaced ? Thanks to a recent dental breakthrough, getting one of these new fillings might not only be your last, but might actually help rebuild the tooth structure that was damaged by the cavity-causing plaque in the first place. Scientists have developed a new material for filling cavities that not only kills bacteria associated with cavities, but helps to re-mineralize the tooth where it has been damaged. With the infusion of the antibacterial material into the silver nanoparticles, this helps to thwart off bacteria and is attached to the tooth tissue using an adhesive. The new filling material is still currently undergoing testing before wide use, but if all goes well, these new fillings should last far longer than the regular filling material. For more on this achievement, check out this Daily Mail article. For more information on having your own teeth checked in the Tulsa area, visit the official website of Dr. Larry James, D.S.S. and book an appointment today! 

Dental Sealants

Though regular brushing is still the most successful means of removing particles of food and plaque accumulation that can result in tooth decay, it can still be quite difficult to remove such debris from the tight crevices in the chewing areas of some rear teeth. One recommended way of helping prevent any damage that can be caused by this accumulation is by having sealants put on the teeth. Sealants are a form of plastic that is applied to these areas and then hardened with a curing light. When a layer of sealant is applied, it is largely invisible and does not effect the bite of the individual. The application and curing of sealants is a very quick and easy procedure that can be done in the course of a regular appointment and does not require any form of anesthesia because it is completely non-invasive. For more information, read through this article from WebMD that can answer any questions you might have. To make an appointment to have your teeth cleaned, inspected, and possibly have sealants applied, log on to the website of Dr. Larry James D.D.S. and enjoy continued dental health.

A Cup a Day Keeps The Dentist Away?

While there are many ingredients in a cup of coffee which aren't necessarily good for drinkers, a study done for Wired Magazine reports that certain ingredients that are actually beneficial for dental health. The ingredient trigonelline, a molecule of niacin with a methyl group attached which gives coffee its signature robust-yet-luscious flavor, also acts somewhat as a cavity blocker as it keeps Streptococcus bacteria from bonding with teeth. However beneficial that might be, dental professionals still recommend that coffee drinkers drink water along with their coffee to keep the tannic acid from corroding teeth and causing discoloration. Some like it hot, but if you prefer an iced coffee, drinking colder coffee beverages through a straw is recommended to reduce  contact with your front teeth to reduce staining. More can be found on tannic acid's effect on tooth color in this article from Better Homes & Gardens. To keep your teeth a dazzling shade of white, make an appointment with Dr. Larry James D.D.S. with help from information on his website.

Hanging By a Thread: How Flossing Can Save Your Life

People don't normally pay much mind to flossing, but the health of one's gums is closely related to the health of the rest of one's body. Being that the mouth is the entry point for everything from food to air and water, entering anything into the mouth always runs the risk of introducing new bacteria into the system. There is nothing anyone can do to prevent bacteria from entering the system, but as it collects on the base of the teeth and the gums, plaque forms from the bacteria and can lead to gum infections and disease. The blood that runs through the gums is the same blood that runs all over the body, so an infection introduced into the bloodstream can cause much more serious problems down the line than a little pink in the sink. Gum disease can also be an indicator of other problems that are present in the body, so it is important to meet with dentists at least twice a year to stay on top of your oral health. To prevent gum disease, brush thoroughly twice a day, floss once a day, limit smoking, and the occasional swish with mouthwash doesn't hurt either. Also, making sure children's teeth are clean and gums are healthy is an important means of monitoring a child's overall health over the long term. For more information, log on to check out this segment from CBS News. For a reliable local dentist to check out your teeth and gums to help prevent gum disease, head over to the website of Dr. Larry James D.S.S. and schedule an appoint today!

Never Too Young For Cavities

According to a recent New York Times article, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have reported an increase in the number of preschool-aged children requiring extensive dental work due to neglect. The article centers around a 2 1/2 year old boy with cavities in 55% of his baby teeth with some of the teeth requiring extraction because of the extent of the tooth decay. The very young boy required a root canal for one of the morals and fillings and crowns for the other damages teeth. The increase in these numbers has been mostly tied to the number of parents who underestimate the need for proper oral hygiene in their very young children. The cases reported show that socioeconomic factors do not play as much of a role. To read more on this lapse in dental hygiene and a reminder to parents to care for their children's teeth from the earliest age, click here to read the New York Times article. From the very youngest of patients to the very oldest, Dr. Larry James DDS reminds everyone to brush and floss regularly and schedule regular visits for cleanings and dental check-ups. For more, visit Dr. Larry James' website.

Why Does It Hurt: Identifying the Causes of Tooth Aches

Tooth aches are not only some of the worst pains anyone can feel, but also some of the most annoying. If someone had a sore knee or ankle, they can simply take some time off said area and let it heal while a tooth ache involves an area that we use in order to survive! But where there's smoke, there's fire and with every ache and pain, there is a reason for it. From a cavity to non-dental sources, there are many different causes for that tooth ache that might wake you up at night or just be a dull pain throughout your day. To discover what is causing this pain, it is recommended that you schedule an appointment with your dentist so that they might not only alleviate the pain, but diagnose the cause and prevent any further damage from taking place. Take a look at About.com's "Why Does My Tooth Hurt?" article to read up on the possible reasons for your tooth ache and be sure to schedule an appointment with Dr. Larry James, D.D.S., for a comfortable dental experience with speedy results.

Who Needs a Sink?

Who needs a sink? Certainly not these people. In a creatively-quirky new website, the act of brushing one's teeth is taken far from the sink and even further away from the bathroom. From brushing in irish pubs to being caught brushing in a law school class room, dental hygiene seems to have no geographical restrictions! To check out the most interesting places people have been caught brushing their teeth, check out the folks at People Brushing Their Teeth and feel to criticize not only their location, but their brushing form! For the finest in dental hygiene in more typical locations, check out the page of Dr. Larry James D.D.S. for all you dental needs.

Advantages of Electric Tooth Brushes

Time to replace your tooth brush? Well, even if it isn't, you might want to make the move over to an electric toothbrush. Whether you're having issues with gum irritation, not being able to brush properly in different corners of your mouth, or you're just looking for that just-came-from-the-dentist slick feeling, there are a wide variety of toothbrushes on the market to serve your needs. In addition to making brushing easier, electric toothbrushes also help your tooth-brushing technique. Many times, people can actually cause their gums to recede due to improper brushing direction or brushing too hard around the gum line. Electric toothbrushes remedy many of these problems at the push of a button. In addition to the immediate results, electric toothbrushes also have special features, such as timers for brushing, that other the standard tooth brush doesn't have. If you're weary about the initial price of an electric toothbrush, also keep in mind that the replacement toothbrush heads tend to last longer than a standard toothbrush with even less environment impact when discarded. As well as being more green, an investment in an electric toothbrush is an investment towards your own oral health. For more information the benefits of an electric toothbrush, check out this article from the people at Dicovery Fit & Health. For the finest dental care in the Tulsa area, visit the the experts at Dr. Larry James D.S.S. for service with a smile for your smile.

Root Canal Myth Awareness Week

Been putting off having a necessary root canal procedure due to information you've been gathering from assorted sources? The good folks at 1Dental.com have announced this week to be Root Canal Myth Awareness Week to keep you updated on all the false information. Root canal procedures have come a long way from the days of spending long hours in the chair for a pain-filled visit. With new advances in technology, root canals have become a virtually pain-free procedure that only takes a fraction of the time that it once did. In order to bust from of the myths surrounding root canals, check back into 1Dental.com's blog all this week for more root canal myths. For more information about how to see whether or not you need a root canal procedure or how to go about setting up an appointment, visit Dr. Larry James DDS for Tulsa's finest and most professional dental procedures.

Afraid of The Dentist? You Don't Need To Be!

Dreading an upcoming appointment with your dentist or even just setting up an overdue appointment? Dental phobia is fairly common, but it doesn’t have to be. Even just within the past few years, modern dentistry has advanced in the direction of catering to patients with a high level of dental fear. Whether you tremble at the idea of an anesthetic injection or the sound of a dental drill makes you want to run for the door, you should know that you have nothing to fear.  

In earlier generations, needles were thicker instruments that were sterilized between use. Ironically meant to numb pain, they were some of the biggest sources of pain in the entire dentist’s office! These days, most every needle is disposable and much, much small than its bulkier predecessor. Because of the disposable nature of the needles, there is zero likelihood of a dulled needle being used. In addition to this, many times a numbing gel is applied to the gums before the injection, making the injection itself virtually painless.

One of the most feared aspects of visiting the dentist is the sound of the drill. It might not even be the drill itself, but the sound of the drill is enough to leave some in a state of panic. Over the years, the drills have been becoming progressively quieter. With some air-powered models, you may not hear the drill much at all if anything else is happening. To deaden the noise any further, bring in your headphones and an mp3 or cd player with your favorite music to listen to during any procedure that requires a drill. Keep the pause button handy so that the dentist can communicate with you.

The number one aspect of your dental visit to keep in mind is that your dentist is your friend and wants you to be as comfortable as possible. After all, they would have trouble keeping patients if they didn’t! Before the dentist or hygienist starts, take a moment to explain your differing fears or sensitivities to them to ensure they can accommodate you in the chair. Good communication with your dentist or hygienist will insure the most comfortable experience. And always remember; dodging the dentist will only make your appointments that much less pleasant. When you give the dentist an opportunity to catch different problems for they can progress and become much more serious, the less time you’ll ultimately end up spending in the chair.

For superior dental work, head over to Dr. Larry James’ website and see how you can become a patient for the most comfortable dental experience in the Tulsa area. If you’re having trouble dealing with your dental phobia, let the professionals at DentalFearCental.org ease your fears with explanations of how to minimize unfavorable experiences at the dentists’ office. And remember: the dentist is your friend!