Dear Dr. Ellie:
My dentist (who does recommend Zellies), tells me I have "sluffing" of the mouth walls, and certain toothpastes and mouthwashes exacerbate this condition. What toothpastes/mouthwashes do you recommend that can be used with this condition?
Thanks for your response!
JW
Dear JW:
I would advise you to AVOID most toothpastes out there!
AVOID : The Crest pro-health line
AVOID Any pastes containing baking soda, peroxide or for tartar control.
AVOID any pastes for sensitive teet, or pastes that contain triclosan ( Colgate Total)....
I recommend the Crest Regular Original paste as my number one choice.
Closys toothpaste (available in Walgreens would be a second choice).
I suggest getting granular xylitol and mixing one teaspoon in a bottle of water - to sip all day.
In addition - after meals and snacks and drinks - eat Zellies mints or gum - the xylitol is anti fungal and will help you heal this condition in about a week.
Finally it is very important to swish the head of your toothbrush in some Listerine every day.....rinse the brush off under running water and store the brush in a cup so that the head of the brush air- dries ( away from a toilet or other brushes that my be infected).
Toothbrushes carry molds and bacteria and these can transfer from one brush to another.
If your bathroom is damp - you may want to keep your toothbrush in the kitchen.
Hope this helps - I would love to know how quickly your mouth condition improves !
Ellie
www.zellies.com
26 Corporate Woods
Rochester, NY 14623
(585) 272-1270
Monday, February 01, 2010
Sunday, January 31, 2010
ACT & Fillings Questions
Dear Dr. Ellie:
Does leaving Act in the mouth as long as possible in liquid form before spitting it out more or less beneficial than the residue drying in the mouth after spitting it out and before eating and drinking anything?
I had my mercury fillings removed years ago and had white ones put in. Unfortunately the ones in the back kept breaking so I had inlays put in. Are they the same material, worse?
With this system will minerals take their place and dislodge them?
Is malic acid in apples less corrosive than citric acid?
-P
Hi P,
You asked me to compare malic acid from apples with citric acid.
It is not possible to compare the effects of two acids and then extrapolate this to teeth.
Sometimes there are other factors that make foods damage teeth more than others - or protect teeth more than others.
Fresh apples contain polyphenols that are protective of teeth - which is probably why fresh apples do not damage teeth but are protective. Citric acids, however, cause chelation ( clumping) of calcium in saliva which creates a "pull" of minerals out of teeth to replace the "missing" calcium.
ACT residue on teeth will strengthen teeth as long as it stays in contact with the tooth surface. Research shows that if you do not eat or drink this can be several hours in the deep pits and crevices of teeth (after you spit out the rinse). I think 1-2 minute of rinsing is plenty - it would not be sensible to rinse for half an hour!
My system is very powerful when used as I recommend - and appears to heal teeth quickly.
These results are achieved when the system is used as described - there is no need to try and "enhance" its effects by altering the procedures!
I believe that silver mercury fillings should not randomly be replaced with white. First, the disease must be controlled. White fillings attract plaque bacteria more than silver ones and cause white fillings to deteriorate in an unhealthy mouth quicker than silver ones.
I have white fillings that were done in the 1960s - they are fine and working! The ADA gives white fillings a life span of about 5-7 years (compared with silver fillings that they say have a life span double this) I believe that if you keep enamel strong, your mouth alkaline, and control dental disease, virtually any filling can last a lifetime!
My oral care rinse system helps preserve fillings (of all kinds) by strengthening the enamel around fillings and inlays - which stops them from leaking and breaking. I am a believer in the least replacements possible - so don't jump to replace fillings just because.....
My thoughts on silver fillings:
• Use my system to strengthen teeth and eradicate disease before getting fillings replaced.
• Avoid peroxide - it encourages the release of mercury from silver fillings
• Avoid mouth acidity (drinks etc) which can cause of silver fillings to become pitted and break(this can put you at risk to ingest pieces of the mercury filling).
• I think a stable silver filling is not a real risk.
• People with silver fillings may wish to avoid chewing too much gum. Chewing can encourage mercury to the surface of silver fillings. (This definitely happens with new fillings but I am not sure if it occurs with older fillings) Heavily filled teeth are more likely to break if you chew on them constantly - another reason to be moderate with gum if you have heavily filled teeth.
Hope this helps!
Ellie
www.zellies.com
26 Corporate Woods
Rochester, NY 14623
(585) 272-1270
Does leaving Act in the mouth as long as possible in liquid form before spitting it out more or less beneficial than the residue drying in the mouth after spitting it out and before eating and drinking anything?
I had my mercury fillings removed years ago and had white ones put in. Unfortunately the ones in the back kept breaking so I had inlays put in. Are they the same material, worse?
With this system will minerals take their place and dislodge them?
Is malic acid in apples less corrosive than citric acid?
-P
Hi P,
You asked me to compare malic acid from apples with citric acid.
It is not possible to compare the effects of two acids and then extrapolate this to teeth.
Sometimes there are other factors that make foods damage teeth more than others - or protect teeth more than others.
Fresh apples contain polyphenols that are protective of teeth - which is probably why fresh apples do not damage teeth but are protective. Citric acids, however, cause chelation ( clumping) of calcium in saliva which creates a "pull" of minerals out of teeth to replace the "missing" calcium.
ACT residue on teeth will strengthen teeth as long as it stays in contact with the tooth surface. Research shows that if you do not eat or drink this can be several hours in the deep pits and crevices of teeth (after you spit out the rinse). I think 1-2 minute of rinsing is plenty - it would not be sensible to rinse for half an hour!
My system is very powerful when used as I recommend - and appears to heal teeth quickly.
These results are achieved when the system is used as described - there is no need to try and "enhance" its effects by altering the procedures!
I believe that silver mercury fillings should not randomly be replaced with white. First, the disease must be controlled. White fillings attract plaque bacteria more than silver ones and cause white fillings to deteriorate in an unhealthy mouth quicker than silver ones.
I have white fillings that were done in the 1960s - they are fine and working! The ADA gives white fillings a life span of about 5-7 years (compared with silver fillings that they say have a life span double this) I believe that if you keep enamel strong, your mouth alkaline, and control dental disease, virtually any filling can last a lifetime!
My oral care rinse system helps preserve fillings (of all kinds) by strengthening the enamel around fillings and inlays - which stops them from leaking and breaking. I am a believer in the least replacements possible - so don't jump to replace fillings just because.....
My thoughts on silver fillings:
• Use my system to strengthen teeth and eradicate disease before getting fillings replaced.
• Avoid peroxide - it encourages the release of mercury from silver fillings
• Avoid mouth acidity (drinks etc) which can cause of silver fillings to become pitted and break(this can put you at risk to ingest pieces of the mercury filling).
• I think a stable silver filling is not a real risk.
• People with silver fillings may wish to avoid chewing too much gum. Chewing can encourage mercury to the surface of silver fillings. (This definitely happens with new fillings but I am not sure if it occurs with older fillings) Heavily filled teeth are more likely to break if you chew on them constantly - another reason to be moderate with gum if you have heavily filled teeth.
Hope this helps!
Ellie
www.zellies.com
26 Corporate Woods
Rochester, NY 14623
(585) 272-1270
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Interested in the Mouth Care System
Hello Dr. Ellie:
Just came across your site and am very interested in trying out your mouth care system. I often suffer from dry mouth and bad breath (I have to use a steroid inhaler for asthma), but I was just wondering:- Are Smints the same as Zellies? If not, do you know where I can find Zellies or other 100% Xylitol products in the UK - either mints or gum?- It is not so easy to find "Crest Regular" toothpaste in the UK, although I have occasionally seen other type of Crest. Is there any other toothpaste that would be suitable? (How about the Retardex one?)- I was told that I should not use mouthwashes with alcohol, as they dry my mouth even more. Doesn't Listerinecontain alcohol?Many thanks in advance for your advice. You have a great website!
JB
Hi JB,
Thanks so much for your message - welcome to the wonderful world of oral health!
We are working hard to try and help people make good "substitute choices" when it is difficult to find exact products recommended for my system.
We will continue to address non USA countries - helping people figure out what to do.
We would appreciate any feedback you have, particularly if you and other consumers could convince a big company like Boots to start carrying these items. If Boots were to have the original Crest...let me know .....and I will help spread the word!
Some Smints are 100 percent xylitol but Smints also come in flavors that are not.....check the ingredients ( you may need a magnifying glass!!)
Yes, any xylitol will work - you could also try Tesco.
I think Tesco sell granular packets of xylitol under the label Perfect Sweet.
If this is correct and you find it - I would love to have confirmation so that I can tell others.
We have recently compiled a list of substitute toothpastes - and Retardex paste ( in USA it is called Closys) is my first suggested "substitute" toothpaste.
I have worked with many patients with dry mouth - many chemotherapy patients and also patients with disease of the salivary glands.
Listerine has been rigorously studied over many years and has not been shown to be a problem.
I recommend Listerine providing you rinse it off after using with the ACT ( as suggested in my system) - because it is acidic and acidity will soften your teeth. (For more information you may like to read my book Kiss Your Dentist Goodbye - available on Amazon)
There were some negative studies about Listerine but these were not done on patients.
They took skin cells in the lab and poured Listerine on them. In the mouth the effects of Listerine were shown to be very different.
I believe the "bad- alcohol" studies were done in Australia (where interestingly they are trying to launch a new brand of mouth rinse using a native plant extract....)
I use Listerine. I feel comfortable using it since oral health is vital for general health.
At the present time, I believe my system offers the safest way to achieve oral health for most people.
Best Wishes!
Ellie
www.zellies.com
26 Corporate Woods
Rochester, NY 14623
(585) 272-1270
Just came across your site and am very interested in trying out your mouth care system. I often suffer from dry mouth and bad breath (I have to use a steroid inhaler for asthma), but I was just wondering:- Are Smints the same as Zellies? If not, do you know where I can find Zellies or other 100% Xylitol products in the UK - either mints or gum?- It is not so easy to find "Crest Regular" toothpaste in the UK, although I have occasionally seen other type of Crest. Is there any other toothpaste that would be suitable? (How about the Retardex one?)- I was told that I should not use mouthwashes with alcohol, as they dry my mouth even more. Doesn't Listerinecontain alcohol?Many thanks in advance for your advice. You have a great website!
JB
Hi JB,
Thanks so much for your message - welcome to the wonderful world of oral health!
We are working hard to try and help people make good "substitute choices" when it is difficult to find exact products recommended for my system.
We will continue to address non USA countries - helping people figure out what to do.
We would appreciate any feedback you have, particularly if you and other consumers could convince a big company like Boots to start carrying these items. If Boots were to have the original Crest...let me know .....and I will help spread the word!
Some Smints are 100 percent xylitol but Smints also come in flavors that are not.....check the ingredients ( you may need a magnifying glass!!)
Yes, any xylitol will work - you could also try Tesco.
I think Tesco sell granular packets of xylitol under the label Perfect Sweet.
If this is correct and you find it - I would love to have confirmation so that I can tell others.
We have recently compiled a list of substitute toothpastes - and Retardex paste ( in USA it is called Closys) is my first suggested "substitute" toothpaste.
I have worked with many patients with dry mouth - many chemotherapy patients and also patients with disease of the salivary glands.
Listerine has been rigorously studied over many years and has not been shown to be a problem.
I recommend Listerine providing you rinse it off after using with the ACT ( as suggested in my system) - because it is acidic and acidity will soften your teeth. (For more information you may like to read my book Kiss Your Dentist Goodbye - available on Amazon)
There were some negative studies about Listerine but these were not done on patients.
They took skin cells in the lab and poured Listerine on them. In the mouth the effects of Listerine were shown to be very different.
I believe the "bad- alcohol" studies were done in Australia (where interestingly they are trying to launch a new brand of mouth rinse using a native plant extract....)
I use Listerine. I feel comfortable using it since oral health is vital for general health.
At the present time, I believe my system offers the safest way to achieve oral health for most people.
Best Wishes!
Ellie
www.zellies.com
26 Corporate Woods
Rochester, NY 14623
(585) 272-1270
Bad Bacteria & Healthy Bacteria
Dear Dr. Ellie:
I assume it's not necessary to brush teeth after every meal once the bad bacteria have been crowded out by the healthy ones and have taken residence in the mouth?
When you say to leave Act in the mouth as long as possible, do you mean before spitting it out or after spitting it out and before eating and drinking anything ?
PG
Hi PG,
Thanks for your message.
If you end a meal with an alkaline food (like dairy, cheese fresh celery, carrots ) - no further action is needed!
Xylitol mints or gum is of course a perfect ending to a meal - so brushing is not needed.
Plaque bacteria take 12 hours to grow on teeth - so brushing every 12 hours is enough.
More than this may do more harm than good - this is my message.
Besides, at work many people use toothbrushes that have been fermenting in a bag or purse or stored in a common area restroom (ugh!!)
If you just drank a coffee or soda at the end of the meal, your mouth would be acidic. Then brushing with toothpaste can abrade away enamel and make your teeth sensitive and weak. If you use whitening or tartar control toothpaste - your chances of this are great because these pastes are so abrasive.
The longer ACT has to work with your teeth - the greater the healing. ACT should be rinsed for at least a minute or two before spitting out. Spit out well - two or three times to get all the globs of rinse out! Now it is preferable not to eat or drink for as long as possible - so the residue in the dents and crevices of your teeth can continue to work their healing magic!
Hope this answers your questions,
Ellie
www.zellies.com
26 Corporate Woods
Rochester, NY 14623
(585) 272-1270
I assume it's not necessary to brush teeth after every meal once the bad bacteria have been crowded out by the healthy ones and have taken residence in the mouth?
When you say to leave Act in the mouth as long as possible, do you mean before spitting it out or after spitting it out and before eating and drinking anything ?
PG
Hi PG,
Thanks for your message.
If you end a meal with an alkaline food (like dairy, cheese fresh celery, carrots ) - no further action is needed!
Xylitol mints or gum is of course a perfect ending to a meal - so brushing is not needed.
Plaque bacteria take 12 hours to grow on teeth - so brushing every 12 hours is enough.
More than this may do more harm than good - this is my message.
Besides, at work many people use toothbrushes that have been fermenting in a bag or purse or stored in a common area restroom (ugh!!)
If you just drank a coffee or soda at the end of the meal, your mouth would be acidic. Then brushing with toothpaste can abrade away enamel and make your teeth sensitive and weak. If you use whitening or tartar control toothpaste - your chances of this are great because these pastes are so abrasive.
The longer ACT has to work with your teeth - the greater the healing. ACT should be rinsed for at least a minute or two before spitting out. Spit out well - two or three times to get all the globs of rinse out! Now it is preferable not to eat or drink for as long as possible - so the residue in the dents and crevices of your teeth can continue to work their healing magic!
Hope this answers your questions,
Ellie
www.zellies.com
26 Corporate Woods
Rochester, NY 14623
(585) 272-1270
MI Paste
Dear Dr. Ellie:
I have been reading your blog and you mentioned the MI paste containing milk powder - I did know that - but are you suggesting it may be carcinogenic in nature for teeth?
Also, have been trying to find on blog - did I read something about glycerin interfering with re-mineralization?
Thank you again.
L
Hi L,
MI paste is fine from a safety standpoint - it is just funny to me that milk powder is now sold by dentist as expensive toothpaste! Ha!
You may be interested to know that the ADA make money on the intellectual property that was used to develop this paste.
For the past 30 years I have been at odds with dentists in US who perpetuated a false myth that milk in baby bottles causes tooth decay (cows milk in a baby bottle will not harm teeth - it may actually strengthen them!) Now we sell milk in a toothpaste!
Why are you worried about glycerin interfering with remineralization?
Ellie
www.zellies.com
26 Corporate Woods
Rochester, NY 14623
(585) 272-1270
I have been reading your blog and you mentioned the MI paste containing milk powder - I did know that - but are you suggesting it may be carcinogenic in nature for teeth?
Also, have been trying to find on blog - did I read something about glycerin interfering with re-mineralization?
Thank you again.
L
Hi L,
MI paste is fine from a safety standpoint - it is just funny to me that milk powder is now sold by dentist as expensive toothpaste! Ha!
You may be interested to know that the ADA make money on the intellectual property that was used to develop this paste.
For the past 30 years I have been at odds with dentists in US who perpetuated a false myth that milk in baby bottles causes tooth decay (cows milk in a baby bottle will not harm teeth - it may actually strengthen them!) Now we sell milk in a toothpaste!
Why are you worried about glycerin interfering with remineralization?
Ellie
www.zellies.com
26 Corporate Woods
Rochester, NY 14623
(585) 272-1270
Thursday, January 28, 2010
"I'm a Believer!"
Dr. Ellie,
I am so delighted with your program. I lost my dental insurance in 2005 and my tooth pain and bleeding gums have been getting progressively worse, with the pain keeping me awake most nights. I've been using the system 4 days now along with the xylitol and the bleeding has stopped, my gums are nice and firm and healthy with no pain at all. My teeth look like I just had them whitened, and the coffee stains are quickly fading away. I have been very desperate and worried about my dental health the past few years. Thank you for the light at the end of the dental tunnel. I'm a believer in your system.
AR
Hi AR,
I am so happy for you.
I am delighted to be helpful - and how easy is this system ?
Keep doing the rinses night and morning.
Keep your toothbrush clean - every day - and store it away from the toilet in an area where it will get air to dry the bristles.
Remember to have some xylitol each day. ..maybe keep some Zellies by your chair and a few in the car! A few Zellies each day, along with the rinses will help you enjoy years and years of dental improvements!
Let's spread the word to all those in the place where you started! Thanks for your message -
I feel blessed to have been allowed to discover this way of healing. Now I have to find better ways to tell others about it!
By the way you may enjoy my book Kiss Your Dentist Goodbye - it is available on Amazon and through local book stores (I'm not a famous author - so you may need to ask them to order the book!! ha!).
Best Wishes,
Ellie
www.zellies.com
26 Corporate Woods
Rochester, NY 14623
(585) 272-1270
I am so delighted with your program. I lost my dental insurance in 2005 and my tooth pain and bleeding gums have been getting progressively worse, with the pain keeping me awake most nights. I've been using the system 4 days now along with the xylitol and the bleeding has stopped, my gums are nice and firm and healthy with no pain at all. My teeth look like I just had them whitened, and the coffee stains are quickly fading away. I have been very desperate and worried about my dental health the past few years. Thank you for the light at the end of the dental tunnel. I'm a believer in your system.
AR
Hi AR,
I am so happy for you.
I am delighted to be helpful - and how easy is this system ?
Keep doing the rinses night and morning.
Keep your toothbrush clean - every day - and store it away from the toilet in an area where it will get air to dry the bristles.
Remember to have some xylitol each day. ..maybe keep some Zellies by your chair and a few in the car! A few Zellies each day, along with the rinses will help you enjoy years and years of dental improvements!
Let's spread the word to all those in the place where you started! Thanks for your message -
I feel blessed to have been allowed to discover this way of healing. Now I have to find better ways to tell others about it!
By the way you may enjoy my book Kiss Your Dentist Goodbye - it is available on Amazon and through local book stores (I'm not a famous author - so you may need to ask them to order the book!! ha!).
Best Wishes,
Ellie
www.zellies.com
26 Corporate Woods
Rochester, NY 14623
(585) 272-1270
Xylitol and Dogs
Hi Ellie,
Below is an email I received about Xylitol and dogs after a conversation I had with a friend. You may want to look into having more warning messages on your products.
Best,
JH
This is Bizarre. I heard yesterday morning about a student's dog that had to go to emergency because it ate Sugarless Gum with Xylitol. I'd never heard before that it was poisonous for dogs. At around 6 pm yesterday, My wife asked our daughter why she left gum wrappers all over. We discovered the dog ate about 10 pieces. We had to make her vomit and get her to emergency.
We have every reason to believe she'll be fine and will come home today, but if I hadn't heard the story in the morning we might have done nothing and she might have even died. Thank God I heard the story in the
morning.
Tell friends with pets to keep Xylitol away from them!
Hi JH,
Thanks for the reply - I have heard stories like this and I explain (along with various other foods) xylitol is worth keeping from your pets. Interestingly xylitol is an ingredient in many dog toothpastes - so probably small amounts are OK - but I am not a vet!
In most stories the product was a huge amount of xylitol (one dog ate 1/2 pound of xylitol) and other stories involve commercial gum that contains mainly sorbitol.
I would not recommend sorbitol for a human or a dog!
Thanks again for your message,
Best Wishes,
Ellie
www.zellies.com
26 Corporate Woods
Rochester, NY 14623
(585) 272-1270
Below is an email I received about Xylitol and dogs after a conversation I had with a friend. You may want to look into having more warning messages on your products.
Best,
JH
This is Bizarre. I heard yesterday morning about a student's dog that had to go to emergency because it ate Sugarless Gum with Xylitol. I'd never heard before that it was poisonous for dogs. At around 6 pm yesterday, My wife asked our daughter why she left gum wrappers all over. We discovered the dog ate about 10 pieces. We had to make her vomit and get her to emergency.
We have every reason to believe she'll be fine and will come home today, but if I hadn't heard the story in the morning we might have done nothing and she might have even died. Thank God I heard the story in the
morning.
Tell friends with pets to keep Xylitol away from them!
Hi JH,
Thanks for the reply - I have heard stories like this and I explain (along with various other foods) xylitol is worth keeping from your pets. Interestingly xylitol is an ingredient in many dog toothpastes - so probably small amounts are OK - but I am not a vet!
In most stories the product was a huge amount of xylitol (one dog ate 1/2 pound of xylitol) and other stories involve commercial gum that contains mainly sorbitol.
I would not recommend sorbitol for a human or a dog!
Thanks again for your message,
Best Wishes,
Ellie
www.zellies.com
26 Corporate Woods
Rochester, NY 14623
(585) 272-1270
Testimonial
Dr. Phillips,
My wife and I were in Rochester visiting my parents about a year ago and we went to your restaurant where you explained Zellies and the mouth care system to us. I have been doing the entire process faithfully since then and my teeth and mouth have felt great.
I wanted to ask you a question about something I noticed. All my life I have gotten cold sores -- maybe 5 to 12 a year. Since I started on the Zellies program I have not had any. Do you think it is a coincidence or could there be a connection?
Thanks for everything. My parents are on their way to visit us in DC and I am having them stop by to load up on the new gum (I really like the spearmint and the cinnamon flavors).
PK
Hi Paul,
Thanks for your message. I am delighted to hear that you like Zellies and the system has helped your teeth so much!
I think the impact of good oral health is seriously underestimated. In our restaurant we rarely have staff who are sick, very few sore throats - and this report covers twenty years! Is this a coincidence - or is it the clean and healthy mouths we all enjoy?
The other fact, I believe, is that many oral care products have negative effects on teeth and the mucosa of mouths. I dislike the additives for whitening, tartar control and the new line of pro-health by Crest. I know of so many people who have had sensitivity, pain and sores from these oral care products.
I believe my system creates a healthy oral ecosystem - which allows gums, teeth and everything else to remain healthy year after year.
Thanks so much for your message. I love to get progress reports from people I have met!
By the way, you may enjoy my book that was just released on Amazon - Kiss Your Dentist Goodbye!
Best Wishes,
Ellie
www.zellies.com
26 Corporate Woods
Rochester, NY 14623
(585) 272-1270
My wife and I were in Rochester visiting my parents about a year ago and we went to your restaurant where you explained Zellies and the mouth care system to us. I have been doing the entire process faithfully since then and my teeth and mouth have felt great.
I wanted to ask you a question about something I noticed. All my life I have gotten cold sores -- maybe 5 to 12 a year. Since I started on the Zellies program I have not had any. Do you think it is a coincidence or could there be a connection?
Thanks for everything. My parents are on their way to visit us in DC and I am having them stop by to load up on the new gum (I really like the spearmint and the cinnamon flavors).
PK
Hi Paul,
Thanks for your message. I am delighted to hear that you like Zellies and the system has helped your teeth so much!
I think the impact of good oral health is seriously underestimated. In our restaurant we rarely have staff who are sick, very few sore throats - and this report covers twenty years! Is this a coincidence - or is it the clean and healthy mouths we all enjoy?
The other fact, I believe, is that many oral care products have negative effects on teeth and the mucosa of mouths. I dislike the additives for whitening, tartar control and the new line of pro-health by Crest. I know of so many people who have had sensitivity, pain and sores from these oral care products.
I believe my system creates a healthy oral ecosystem - which allows gums, teeth and everything else to remain healthy year after year.
Thanks so much for your message. I love to get progress reports from people I have met!
By the way, you may enjoy my book that was just released on Amazon - Kiss Your Dentist Goodbye!
Best Wishes,
Ellie
www.zellies.com
26 Corporate Woods
Rochester, NY 14623
(585) 272-1270
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Teeth after Veneers
Hi Dr. Ellie,
I am wondering if this product works on teeth that have lost .5mm of enamel off the tooth's surface. I don't want to wear veneers anymore and want them taken off. Due to the sensitivity of the enamel loss, I am wondering if this product would work for me?
Thank you,
A
Hi A,
The use of my mouth rinse system with xylitol will help put minerals back into enamel - and make it less sensitive. The problem is I don't know how much of your tooth enamel was shaved away for the veneers. Clinically I cannot tell if the removed enamel has a chance of looking good when the veneers come off.
I suggest you start using my system of oral care now. This will make your mouth more comfortable, cleaner and fresher. You will build up as much strength as possible in all your teeth - and be able to asses your veneers from a better standpoint.
I suggest you use my system twice every day - with Zellies after every meal/snack/drink for at least six months.
This will take you from now until the summer.....
In the summer ask your dentist what he thinks will happen if you have the veneers removed.
Perhaps he will take one or two off and let you experiment to see what happens. By the summer you will be an "expert" with my system - and have confidence in the process of remineralization.
If you have already been using the system for six months, you will know how this is going to feel to newly exposed enamel. Your dentist may be able to save the old veneer - just in case you do not like the outcome.
Many dentists are willing to work with you - if you tell them what you want to do.
Good luck and let me know if you have any more questions, Ellie
www.zellies.com
26 Corporate Woods
Rochester, NY 14623
(585) 272-1270
I am wondering if this product works on teeth that have lost .5mm of enamel off the tooth's surface. I don't want to wear veneers anymore and want them taken off. Due to the sensitivity of the enamel loss, I am wondering if this product would work for me?
Thank you,
A
Hi A,
The use of my mouth rinse system with xylitol will help put minerals back into enamel - and make it less sensitive. The problem is I don't know how much of your tooth enamel was shaved away for the veneers. Clinically I cannot tell if the removed enamel has a chance of looking good when the veneers come off.
I suggest you start using my system of oral care now. This will make your mouth more comfortable, cleaner and fresher. You will build up as much strength as possible in all your teeth - and be able to asses your veneers from a better standpoint.
I suggest you use my system twice every day - with Zellies after every meal/snack/drink for at least six months.
This will take you from now until the summer.....
In the summer ask your dentist what he thinks will happen if you have the veneers removed.
Perhaps he will take one or two off and let you experiment to see what happens. By the summer you will be an "expert" with my system - and have confidence in the process of remineralization.
If you have already been using the system for six months, you will know how this is going to feel to newly exposed enamel. Your dentist may be able to save the old veneer - just in case you do not like the outcome.
Many dentists are willing to work with you - if you tell them what you want to do.
Good luck and let me know if you have any more questions, Ellie
www.zellies.com
26 Corporate Woods
Rochester, NY 14623
(585) 272-1270
Tooth Care Questions
Dr. Ellie,
I spoke with you and emailed with you several times during the past year. I have so appreciated your insight and products.
My daughter, has her top front four teeth affected by some decay. We first realized it about a year ago. Shortly after that, one of her teeth broke off.
That is when we really begain using xylitol, etc.
Kalina is now 2 1/2. We brush her teeth at least 3 times a day. (We usually tend to brush with a xylitol product - Spry gel or Squigle toothsaver.) She uses xylitol (gums, mints, or toothbrushing) after each meal/snack/drink. (Of course there are times when she is left with someone - not sure if they are as vigilant. But usually this is the protocol.) Her toothbrush is rinsed in Listerine after each brush - she has several toothbrushes, we alternate using them. We also use Act. Kalina is an amazing rinser for her age - we have begun to let her swish after brushing teeth.
Last March we travelled to have ozone done on her teeth - we have kept up with her care. We do use MI paste some - I go back and forth on my thoughts about. But the dentist who did the ozone is a big believer in it.
A few months ago, I thought maybe the broken tooth was worse - panicked. Took her to a pediatric dentist in our area that we like. She had no active decay! We were so happy.
Beginning of December, Kalina went to pediatric dentist for a check up. Again, all looked good!
A couple of weeks later, while biting corn on the cob, Kalina said "OW" and seemed quite upset that her tooth hurt. I was very concerned. After a few days, I decided that she had burnt herself on the corn and that was the reason.
But, she has continued to say "ow". when biting with front teeth. Seems to be worsening. This week I took a really good look. The back of her front tooth seems to have a brown "pit" in it. I gently touched with a safety pin - seemed "soft" to me. So, I am thinking active decay-
I truly do not understand. For one reason, all seemed good just a couple of weeks before the initial "ow" episode.
For another, we are fairly vigilant with brushing, xylitol, etc.
I take her to the pediatric dentist next week. Not sure what they will suggest or what I will agree to.
Have begun considering the journey for another ozone treatment.
Since there seems to be pain involved, I don't know how much time we have - something has to be done- I really want to avoid any kind of "crown" scenario.
Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Once there is pain with decay, will a filling help? How much of an advantage would ozone before a filling be? (Keeping in mind it is a plane trip-)
I look forward to anything you might be able to share. If calling is easier, feel free to do so. Hoping all is well with you. Congrats on the book - I will be ordering soon!
Sincerely,
LCP
LCP
My advice is crisp and clear - I think you need to think about the following:
Your daughter must have at least 6 grams of xylitol each day - or this infection will not be eradicated. Xylitol exposures must be at least 5 times a day - have a little after anything she eats or drinks.
You may want to get granular xylitol and dissolve it in water - to let her sip during the day as a kind of tooth wash. In addition, I suggest Zellies fruit mints - they are delicious and kids love them. I don't usually become brand specific - but my mints work - and it appears the xylitol you have been using is not effective enough.
Cavities are caused by a bacterial infection - without the infection - cavities will not happen - teeth will not get worse.
You need to use ACT bubblegum rinse on your daughter's toothbrush each day - to brush over all her teeth. It is the combination of ACT and xylitol that will help heal and strengthen her teeth.
The entire family should be on this program. If you or another caretaker - even other children - have disease bacteria in their mouths - they can get passed to Kalina in a kiss or when sharing food. I suggest the entire family gets on this program of oral health.
Toothbrushes: rinse out in Listerine, wash under the running tap water and then allow to dry between uses. Store away from the toilet area.
If you do this you will reverse the situation. Ozone is a help to eradicate bacteria - but it does not stop you from re-infection. MI paste is made from milk powder.
If you are deciding where to spend money - I return to my suggestions. They will work if you ensure your daughter has at least 6.5 grams of xylitol each day and that this is at least 5 separate exposures - different times during the day - after meals is best.
Good luck and I hope this is helpful for you.
Ellie
I spoke with you and emailed with you several times during the past year. I have so appreciated your insight and products.
My daughter, has her top front four teeth affected by some decay. We first realized it about a year ago. Shortly after that, one of her teeth broke off.
That is when we really begain using xylitol, etc.
Kalina is now 2 1/2. We brush her teeth at least 3 times a day. (We usually tend to brush with a xylitol product - Spry gel or Squigle toothsaver.) She uses xylitol (gums, mints, or toothbrushing) after each meal/snack/drink. (Of course there are times when she is left with someone - not sure if they are as vigilant. But usually this is the protocol.) Her toothbrush is rinsed in Listerine after each brush - she has several toothbrushes, we alternate using them. We also use Act. Kalina is an amazing rinser for her age - we have begun to let her swish after brushing teeth.
Last March we travelled to have ozone done on her teeth - we have kept up with her care. We do use MI paste some - I go back and forth on my thoughts about. But the dentist who did the ozone is a big believer in it.
A few months ago, I thought maybe the broken tooth was worse - panicked. Took her to a pediatric dentist in our area that we like. She had no active decay! We were so happy.
Beginning of December, Kalina went to pediatric dentist for a check up. Again, all looked good!
A couple of weeks later, while biting corn on the cob, Kalina said "OW" and seemed quite upset that her tooth hurt. I was very concerned. After a few days, I decided that she had burnt herself on the corn and that was the reason.
But, she has continued to say "ow". when biting with front teeth. Seems to be worsening. This week I took a really good look. The back of her front tooth seems to have a brown "pit" in it. I gently touched with a safety pin - seemed "soft" to me. So, I am thinking active decay-
I truly do not understand. For one reason, all seemed good just a couple of weeks before the initial "ow" episode.
For another, we are fairly vigilant with brushing, xylitol, etc.
I take her to the pediatric dentist next week. Not sure what they will suggest or what I will agree to.
Have begun considering the journey for another ozone treatment.
Since there seems to be pain involved, I don't know how much time we have - something has to be done- I really want to avoid any kind of "crown" scenario.
Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Once there is pain with decay, will a filling help? How much of an advantage would ozone before a filling be? (Keeping in mind it is a plane trip-)
I look forward to anything you might be able to share. If calling is easier, feel free to do so. Hoping all is well with you. Congrats on the book - I will be ordering soon!
Sincerely,
LCP
LCP
My advice is crisp and clear - I think you need to think about the following:
Your daughter must have at least 6 grams of xylitol each day - or this infection will not be eradicated. Xylitol exposures must be at least 5 times a day - have a little after anything she eats or drinks.
You may want to get granular xylitol and dissolve it in water - to let her sip during the day as a kind of tooth wash. In addition, I suggest Zellies fruit mints - they are delicious and kids love them. I don't usually become brand specific - but my mints work - and it appears the xylitol you have been using is not effective enough.
Cavities are caused by a bacterial infection - without the infection - cavities will not happen - teeth will not get worse.
You need to use ACT bubblegum rinse on your daughter's toothbrush each day - to brush over all her teeth. It is the combination of ACT and xylitol that will help heal and strengthen her teeth.
The entire family should be on this program. If you or another caretaker - even other children - have disease bacteria in their mouths - they can get passed to Kalina in a kiss or when sharing food. I suggest the entire family gets on this program of oral health.
Toothbrushes: rinse out in Listerine, wash under the running tap water and then allow to dry between uses. Store away from the toilet area.
If you do this you will reverse the situation. Ozone is a help to eradicate bacteria - but it does not stop you from re-infection. MI paste is made from milk powder.
If you are deciding where to spend money - I return to my suggestions. They will work if you ensure your daughter has at least 6.5 grams of xylitol each day and that this is at least 5 separate exposures - different times during the day - after meals is best.
Good luck and I hope this is helpful for you.
Ellie
Monday, January 25, 2010
Benefits of Xylitol and Dr. Ellie's System
Hello Dr. Ellie,
I have spoken with you before with questions about my son's dental care, which was very helpful. I now have a question about using xylitol for my whole family. I see on your website that you state that the benefits are greatest if you consume 6 to 10 grams per day. If we are not consuming that much, but just use the mints or gum once or twice a day, or not at all on some days, will we still get a benefit from using it? Would it still help to clean our teeth whenever we use it?
Thank you,
MR
MR
Hi M,
If you are a "reader" I would recommend my book Kiss Your Dentist Goodbye.
http://www.kissyourdentistgoodbye.com/
It is a simple two-day read - written for the everyone to help explain HOW my suggested mouth rinse routine and xylitol work. If you read the chapter on xylitol it would be helpful to you - to understand how xylitol works.
Basically xylitol "melts" plaque each time you use it. The plaque bacteria absorb it into their system, and this makes plaque less sticky on your teeth. Then, with a good tooth cleaning routine you will clean more plaque off your teeth.
However, plaque grows again quickly - and especially in acidic or dry mouth conditions.
If you eat a couple of grams of xylitol each day it will benefit your teeth (it also stimulates an alkaline mouth and helps repair teeth) plus it will help limit plaque. Is this is ENOUGH? The answer depends on how "infected" your mouth is and other "risk factors" that are specific to YOU.
Risk factors are the "things" that cause disease in your mouth - cavities and gum disease.
The main risk factors are dry mouth, acidic saliva, stress, a job that involves talking ..soda..etc...etc. (many, many different things)
Oral health is the balance between healing your mouth and things that cause damage. The scale MUST tip towards healing - but I don't know how much is on the other side of the scale for YOU (the bad risk factors for YOU ).
My system assumes lots of risk factors. If you were my patient we could talk for about fifteen minutes and figure out your list of risk factors. Since I cannot do this with everyone on the internet, I ASSUME the worst - and give you a program that will work - for everyone!
If you have an alkaline, moist mouth, drink alkaline drinks, eat a great diet and have very clean toothbrushing conditions (and a healthy family/spouse) - you may not need so much assistance to keep the scale balanced on the side of health. If you live under stress, travel in hotel bathrooms and drink orange juice all day - then you need more xylitol.
I hope this understands the delicate answer - it depends on balance. Why not add a small packets of xylitol to your drinking water each day - and sip this for 4 more grams of xylitol each day?
Also, are you using my system of tooth cleaning and mouth care?
Best Wishes and thanks for your question,
Ellie
http://www.zellies.com/
26 Corporate Woods
Rochester, NY 14623
(585) 272-1270
If you are a "reader" I would recommend my book Kiss Your Dentist Goodbye.
http://www.kissyourdentistgoodbye.com/
It is a simple two-day read - written for the everyone to help explain HOW my suggested mouth rinse routine and xylitol work. If you read the chapter on xylitol it would be helpful to you - to understand how xylitol works.Basically xylitol "melts" plaque each time you use it. The plaque bacteria absorb it into their system, and this makes plaque less sticky on your teeth. Then, with a good tooth cleaning routine you will clean more plaque off your teeth.
However, plaque grows again quickly - and especially in acidic or dry mouth conditions.
If you eat a couple of grams of xylitol each day it will benefit your teeth (it also stimulates an alkaline mouth and helps repair teeth) plus it will help limit plaque. Is this is ENOUGH? The answer depends on how "infected" your mouth is and other "risk factors" that are specific to YOU.
Risk factors are the "things" that cause disease in your mouth - cavities and gum disease.
The main risk factors are dry mouth, acidic saliva, stress, a job that involves talking ..soda..etc...etc. (many, many different things)
Oral health is the balance between healing your mouth and things that cause damage. The scale MUST tip towards healing - but I don't know how much is on the other side of the scale for YOU (the bad risk factors for YOU ).
My system assumes lots of risk factors. If you were my patient we could talk for about fifteen minutes and figure out your list of risk factors. Since I cannot do this with everyone on the internet, I ASSUME the worst - and give you a program that will work - for everyone!
If you have an alkaline, moist mouth, drink alkaline drinks, eat a great diet and have very clean toothbrushing conditions (and a healthy family/spouse) - you may not need so much assistance to keep the scale balanced on the side of health. If you live under stress, travel in hotel bathrooms and drink orange juice all day - then you need more xylitol.
I hope this understands the delicate answer - it depends on balance. Why not add a small packets of xylitol to your drinking water each day - and sip this for 4 more grams of xylitol each day?
Also, are you using my system of tooth cleaning and mouth care?
Best Wishes and thanks for your question,
Ellie
http://www.zellies.com/
26 Corporate Woods
Rochester, NY 14623
(585) 272-1270
Citrus Listerine
Dr. Ellie,
Listerine has changed the formula on their Citrus flavor and it is no longer ADA certified, should we switch to another flavor?
Thanks, S
Dear S:
Yes, I would be concerned about ANY Listerine without an ADA shield of acceptance on the label.
When Listerine came out with the white bottle of whitening Listerine, I called the American Dental Association to ask how it could be allowed on the store shelves. If someone has a risk for cancer - it is possible this rinse could promote oral cancer (it is called a co-carcinogen).
The ADA replied they had no control over the product - because it was classified as a cosmetic.
They explained to me that they DID NOT GIVE THIS Whitening Listerine rinse THEIR SEAL OF ACCEPTANCE.
So.......be warned and please, warn others.
My suggestions is to use ONLY Listerine with a shield of acceptance on the label. I use the regular Original, and my kids use the Cool Mint always followed by ACT original anticavity rinse.
If these rinses are too strong, you can dilute to taste - they will be safe and effective, even diluted.
Please tell others about the whitening rinses - they are very bad products.
Ellie
PS:
As a dentist, I have been sent lots of Listerine whitening rinse samples which I refuse to give away or use. I find them very good sink and toilet cleaners.
(Ha!)
www.zellies.com
26 Corporate Woods
Rochester, NY 14623
(585) 272-1270
Listerine has changed the formula on their Citrus flavor and it is no longer ADA certified, should we switch to another flavor?
Thanks, S
Dear S:
Yes, I would be concerned about ANY Listerine without an ADA shield of acceptance on the label.
When Listerine came out with the white bottle of whitening Listerine, I called the American Dental Association to ask how it could be allowed on the store shelves. If someone has a risk for cancer - it is possible this rinse could promote oral cancer (it is called a co-carcinogen).
The ADA replied they had no control over the product - because it was classified as a cosmetic.
They explained to me that they DID NOT GIVE THIS Whitening Listerine rinse THEIR SEAL OF ACCEPTANCE.
So.......be warned and please, warn others.
My suggestions is to use ONLY Listerine with a shield of acceptance on the label. I use the regular Original, and my kids use the Cool Mint always followed by ACT original anticavity rinse.
If these rinses are too strong, you can dilute to taste - they will be safe and effective, even diluted.
Please tell others about the whitening rinses - they are very bad products.
Ellie
PS:
As a dentist, I have been sent lots of Listerine whitening rinse samples which I refuse to give away or use. I find them very good sink and toilet cleaners.
(Ha!)
www.zellies.com
26 Corporate Woods
Rochester, NY 14623
(585) 272-1270
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Sealants for 6yr Molar?
Hi Dr. Ellie,
Today my dentist noticed a pit in the 6yr molar, on the tongue side, of my 8yr old daughter. There is no cavity, and the pit is still partially below the gumline. He is concerned it could form a cavity and wants to seal it. I have read about sealants and want to avoid them. I have 5 children from 18 mos to 11 years. None have sealants except my 11 year old daughter, before I knew any better. Her sealants are about 2 years old. The office is wanting to make appointments to seal the children's teeth. They have asked me many times about this! I have turned them down every time. Can you advise me, especially with regard to my 8yr old?
Thank-you, I appreciate it so much!
M
Hi M,
I am not in a position to tell you whether or not you need a filling in this tooth. I would be disqualified as a dentist if I diagnose through a computer!
This kind of filling (on the tongue side of a 6-year molar) is usually caused by sucking sweets and hard candy/cough lozenges/ taking late night medications or juice before bed. I would recommend that you ensure this child rinses her mouth with ACT rinse before going to bed - and that she understands the dangers of eating or sucking hard candy/ lollypops. (I am interested to know if I am correct about the candy or lollypops??)
It will take about 6 months to reverse this cavity. On the other hand, if she continues to damage this tooth - in 6 months this cavity may have reached the nerve inside the tooth (the nerve is not far away from the outside of the tooth at this particular spot).
This moment will never come again!
You can either turn the situation around or your daughter will have a filling in this tooth for life.
Besides putting in a filling will do nothing to stop the disease - next will be a filling on the other similar tooth on the other side of her mouth....then more and more.
This is a very serious spot to have a cavity - and also a difficult place to put a filling (your dentist would agree that it is very hard to do nice long-lasting fillings in this area by the tongue). I would beg you and your daughter to have a good talk about this - you need her help.
If she loves sweets, consider Zellies 100 percent xylitol fruit mints. They are yummy and delicious. Zellies cinnamon gum is great - we have it in bulk bags. Use xylitol with ACT anticavity rinse - use the rinse every night without fail - and also in the morning.
If your child has trouble cleaning her teeth - at least get her to rinse and/or brush ACT on this cavity often. Better yet is Crest Regular toothpaste brushed on this cavity - followed by ACT.
I am assuming she will not do the entire system just yet ......and that is OK.......get her started when and if you can.....
The most important thing is that
a) Her toothbrush is clean
b) If she eats at night, she eats ONLY Zellies after cleaning her teeth.
Also she should have Zellies after any candy or drinks during the day.
c) She needs to rinse with ACT at least twice a day - maybe three times on the weekends
d) All the family should join in and understand that cavity bacteria pass from person to person when sharing food and kissing. Help your daughter become bacteria free by getting rid of mouth bacteria in the entire family.
e) Put a date on the calendar - in about 4-6 months to go back and have an evaluation of this cavity. It is in too dangerous a location to leave this potential cavity for any longer than 6 months - The good news is that you may be able to "Wow" your dentist and have him wonder where it went! I really hope so!
Best Wishes and please let me know if you have any other questions,
Ellie
www.zellies.com
26 Corporate Woods
Rochester, NY 14623
(585) 272-1270
Today my dentist noticed a pit in the 6yr molar, on the tongue side, of my 8yr old daughter. There is no cavity, and the pit is still partially below the gumline. He is concerned it could form a cavity and wants to seal it. I have read about sealants and want to avoid them. I have 5 children from 18 mos to 11 years. None have sealants except my 11 year old daughter, before I knew any better. Her sealants are about 2 years old. The office is wanting to make appointments to seal the children's teeth. They have asked me many times about this! I have turned them down every time. Can you advise me, especially with regard to my 8yr old?
Thank-you, I appreciate it so much!
M
Hi M,
I am not in a position to tell you whether or not you need a filling in this tooth. I would be disqualified as a dentist if I diagnose through a computer!
This kind of filling (on the tongue side of a 6-year molar) is usually caused by sucking sweets and hard candy/cough lozenges/ taking late night medications or juice before bed. I would recommend that you ensure this child rinses her mouth with ACT rinse before going to bed - and that she understands the dangers of eating or sucking hard candy/ lollypops. (I am interested to know if I am correct about the candy or lollypops??)
It will take about 6 months to reverse this cavity. On the other hand, if she continues to damage this tooth - in 6 months this cavity may have reached the nerve inside the tooth (the nerve is not far away from the outside of the tooth at this particular spot).
This moment will never come again!
You can either turn the situation around or your daughter will have a filling in this tooth for life.
Besides putting in a filling will do nothing to stop the disease - next will be a filling on the other similar tooth on the other side of her mouth....then more and more.
This is a very serious spot to have a cavity - and also a difficult place to put a filling (your dentist would agree that it is very hard to do nice long-lasting fillings in this area by the tongue). I would beg you and your daughter to have a good talk about this - you need her help.
If she loves sweets, consider Zellies 100 percent xylitol fruit mints. They are yummy and delicious. Zellies cinnamon gum is great - we have it in bulk bags. Use xylitol with ACT anticavity rinse - use the rinse every night without fail - and also in the morning.
If your child has trouble cleaning her teeth - at least get her to rinse and/or brush ACT on this cavity often. Better yet is Crest Regular toothpaste brushed on this cavity - followed by ACT.
I am assuming she will not do the entire system just yet ......and that is OK.......get her started when and if you can.....
The most important thing is that
a) Her toothbrush is clean
b) If she eats at night, she eats ONLY Zellies after cleaning her teeth.
Also she should have Zellies after any candy or drinks during the day.
c) She needs to rinse with ACT at least twice a day - maybe three times on the weekends
d) All the family should join in and understand that cavity bacteria pass from person to person when sharing food and kissing. Help your daughter become bacteria free by getting rid of mouth bacteria in the entire family.
e) Put a date on the calendar - in about 4-6 months to go back and have an evaluation of this cavity. It is in too dangerous a location to leave this potential cavity for any longer than 6 months - The good news is that you may be able to "Wow" your dentist and have him wonder where it went! I really hope so!
Best Wishes and please let me know if you have any other questions,
Ellie
www.zellies.com
26 Corporate Woods
Rochester, NY 14623
(585) 272-1270
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