Historic Mercury Treaty Signed by World Leaders in November 2013

Holistic dentists, health professionals, and environmental advocates celebrated last November as leaders from around the world gathered in Japan to sign the Minamata Treaty on mercury. A known neurotoxin, mercury is a dangerous substance that threatens the health and safety of all animal, plant, and human life. Mercury is still used in dental amalgam, and these "silver fillings" are known to be extremely hazardous to patients. Holistic dentists are perhaps most excited with the signing of the Minamata Treaty, because it establishes a foundation for the eventual "phase out" of mercury fillings, which are a leading cause of environmental mercury waste (source: World Health Organization). To learn more about the Minamata Treaty, visit this exclusive on the Miami Dentist Blog.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/minamata-treaty-promises-global-ban-on-mercury-dental-fillings/

Christmas Recipes that are Paleo Perfect

The Paleo Diet is perhaps the newest and most talked about nutrition trend of 2013. It's easy to see why. As the name suggests, Paleo Diet has people eat like our caveman ancestors of the Paleolithic Era. Their primitive diets were free of overly processed foods, refined sugars, gluten, and many other additives that contemporary health experts blame for the chronic diseases suffered by modern man. Whether new to the Paleo Diet or a seasoned expert, these special Christmas recipes will keep you feeling healthy and cheerful this holiday season. Delicious and nutritious, these recipes are sure to please!

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/paleo-diet-christmas-recipes/

Breast Cancer and Iodine Deficiency

Can iodine deficiency lead to cancer? According to new studies, the answer is yes. Specifically, women who lack iodine can develop breast cancer. This is alarming, because Austrialian researchers say iodine deficiency has reached "epidemic levels." In 2008, they estimated that as many as 3 in 4 adults might have low iodine levels. One reason adults worldwide might not be getting enough iodine is because certain foods are now made with potassium bromide, which might actually inhibit iodine activity. Another way adults might be getting less iodine is the rising popularity of low-sodium diets, because iodized table salt can be a good source of this essential nutrient. To learn more about iodine, breast cancer, and cancer prevention, visit this article on the Miami Dentist Blog.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/iodine-and-cancer/

Thyroid, Iodine and Cancer

How are thyroid, iodine, and breast cancer all related? In this special report by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, readers will learn just how important iodine is when promoting holistic wellness. Specifically, iodine helps to maintain a healthy thyroid function. Thyroid is also important for other parts of the body. When natural levels of iodine fall short, the body can experience significant health issues. For instance, women with "iodine deficiency" might develop breast cancer. For more information, visit this health article on the National Institute of Health website.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC314438/

Biocompatible Dentistry: Now in Miami!

Assure A Smile family dentistry has served the South Florida community for more than 25 years. In that time, they have developed a reputation for being one of the most professional, friendly, and healthy dental practices in Miami. Patients love that Assure A Smile takes a holistic approach to dentistry, focusing on patient health and education. Assure A Smile also offers biocompatible dentistry, which are procedures that are performed with non-toxic materials that are safe and healthy for the body. By reducing exposure to mercury, fluoride, and other toxins, the dental professionals at Assure A Smile help Miami residents live healthier lives with big, bright smiles. To learn more about the difference between traditional dentistry and biocompatible dentistry, visit this informational article on the Miami Dentist Blog.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/biocompatible-dentistry-and-non-toxic-dental-materials-now-available-in-miami/

Watch the Signing of the Minamata Convention on Mercury

For over 50 years, mercury has been used in dental amalgam (silver fillings) to perform a variety of dental procedures. Although the American Dental Association has not recognized that this is a major health issue, other countries, agencies, and health experts from around the world disagree. In addition to posing a serious threat to patient health, these mercury fillings are toxic and extremely harmful to the environment. The groundwork for the Minamata Convention on Mercury was created in 2010, and this video shows the historic signing of the international mercury treaty. Health advocates and environmentalists believe the treaty will be the first of many to lead to the complete "phase-out" of this harmful material.

http://iaomt.org/information-gallery/videos/

Root Canal Myths

The following is a guest post from our friends at Wassmer Family Dental.
 
When one thinks about getting a root canal done they may cringe at the thought of the pain they think they will have to endure. While no one ever gets excited by the fact that their dentist has recommended a root canal it really is very beneficial for the health of your mouth as well as the overall health of your entire body. Well before you start thinking of the running for the door get the truth on some of the myths surrounding the root canal.  

#1 Root Canals are Painful: False

                  Having a root canal done to a tooth will actually relieve pain that the patient may be feeling rather than causing pain. Before the procedure takes place the patient will receive some sort of pain relieving medication that will take away pretty much any pain. Most people will get a shot or two of numbing medication in the mouth surrounding the area in which the root canal will take place. These shots will make the entire area completely numb to any feelings. The worst pain you will feel during the whole thing is the small prick produced by the shot.

#2 Root Canals Kill Teeth: False

                  The whole purpose of a root canal is to do exactly the opposite. The procedure cleans out the inside of your tooth and is then disinfected so it can heal.

#3 Root Canals Lead to Crowns: True

                  Usually when a root canal is done on a tooth it then requires a crown. Because this procedure is usually the last hope for a tooth means the tooth most likely have a large cavity or fillings from past cavities. Having a crown added to the remaining tooth after a root canal is a great way to keep the area clean and safe from further damage.

#4 Root Canals are Time Consuming: False

                  Now a days patients can expect to only need a 1-2 hour appointment for their root canal procedure. The only reason why you would need to return to the dentist for a second appointment is in the case of a very severe infection. When this takes place your dentist will put medication in the root canal area to keep it disinfected then finish the procedure another day. Luckily this is usually not the case and everything is taken care of in the first day.

A root canal is nothing to be scared of. There are many health benefits to root canals that will leave your mouth and body feeling much better than it did before.

Ozone Therapy During Dental Procedures - Increasing Effectiveness

There is a new dental treatment that is now available in Miami. It is called Ozone therapy, and it has been shown to help the body fight more bacteria during and after procedures. Ozone uses special tools to administer "O3" to the mouth during cavities, root canals, and other dental procedures. Ozone therapy has been shown to improve the body's ability to naturally fight against infection. Patients who choose dental procedures with Ozone therapy give their body the best chance of making a full and healthy recovery. Ozone therapy is particularly beneficial for patients who undergo root canals. To learn more about this procedure, visit Assure A Smile online!

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/ozone-therapy-for-dental-procedures-now-available-at-assure-a-smile

What is Ozone Therapy?

Watch this free video on Ozone therapy to learn more about the benefits of this new alternative medicine. Join Dr. Robert Rowen to learn on Ozone therapy can help patients have a safer and better experience at the doctor, or dentist. After watching the video, let use know what you think. Post comments on this message thread to share your opinion on Ozone therapy and its use in medicine.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r7lszrTJ3NM

Does Boron Really Prevent Arthritis?

Arthritis is a serious condition that affects an estimated 50 million or more Americans. It is also the #1 workplace disability in America. Not surprisingly, arthritis prevention is the focus of many health blogs, commercials, and supplements. One interesting supplement for preventing arthritis pain is Boron, a natural element that occurs in the soil and enriches our fruits and vegetables. However, studies indicate that certain regions (like the US) have very low concentrations of boron in the soil. As a result, the population suffers from boron deficiency. Since boron helps our bones naturally "remineralize" themselves, a lack of boron can eventually lead to frail bones and joint pain. Read more about these studies that explain how increasing Boron (by supplements, organic foods, and other sources) can ultimately reduce arthritis pain.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/preventing-arthritis-pain-with-boron/

Benefits of Boron

Health professionals are increasingly recommending that men and women who suffer with arthritis supplement their daily diet with Boron. Boron is a natural element that is in the soil. From the soil, Boron makes its way into the fruits and vegetables we eat. There are several interesting correlations between Boron and arthritis, as well. Most important, researchers note that arthritis pain usually occurs in areas of the body where bones are less "mineralized" meaning that they have low mineral content. They also have low levels of Boron, which is known to help bones absorb healthy nutrients. For this reason, doctors now recommend that individuals who suffer with arthritis take boron supplements to help bones stay healthy and pain-free.

http://preventarthritis.org/benefits-of-boron/

Braces 101: What Are Braces?

Are you considering braces? If so, you may want to research them prior to deciding on a long-term treatment plan. Visit this article on WebMD to learn more about braces and the conditions they are designed to treat. Then, choose a category of dental braces to pursue. Options include metal braces, removable braces (like Invisalign), and holistic braces that enhance teeth, jaw, airway, and TMJ (like the DNA Appliance).

http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/braces-and-retainers

Orthodontic Devices: What is the DNA Appliance?

Move over braces, there's a new orthodontic device in town! It's called the Daytime-Nighttime Appliance (DNA), and it has orthodontic professionals everywhere excited. Unlike traditional metal braces, the DNA Appliance gently shifts all major craniofacial structures into alignment. In addition to creating a beautiful smile that lasts, the new device also delivers additional health benefits like improved breathing, reduced TMJ pain, and superior oral hygiene during treatment. Visit this article to learn more, and watch a special time-lapse video that shows teeth shifting into straight alignment.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/the-dna-appliance-a-holistic-approach-to-smile-enhancement/

Chris Kresser: 9 Steps to Avoiding Toxic Foods

Anthropological research implies that this is precisely how people lived for the the greater part of our evolutionary history, while this may appear like pure fantasy to-day. Today, many people acknowledge illnesses like diabetes, obesity, infertility and Alzheimer’s as “normal”. But while these disorders might now be common, they’re any such thing but regular. Actually, the world I asked one to imagine above – which might appear preposterous and unattainable today – was the natural human state for the entire history with this planet until a couple hundred years ago. In a word? The modern lifestyle. And though there are lots of facets of our current life style that give rise to infection, the popular consumption of food toxins is definitely the maximum offender. Specifically, the next four dietary contaminants are accountable. Visit Chriskresser.com for your whole story.

http://chriskresser.com/9-steps-to-perfect-health-1-dont-eat-toxins

Time Magazine: Olestra is Top 50 Worst Inventions of All Time

When it comes to nutrition, what better equation could there be than zero grams of fat, zero grams of cholesterol and zero calories? In as a food additive January 1996, the FDA permitted olestra. Cut-out the poor cooking oil. Eradicate the offer of shortening. Frito-Lay was among the first companies to hop on board, introducing its WOW! Team of potato chips in 1998 to maintain fat-free belly satisfaction. But olestra proved to be a chemical. It not only removed unwanted weight from foods but additionally negated your body's ability to absorb crucial vitamins. The FDA has kept as an appropriate food additive olestra even today, though, leaving its health benefits within the hands of individual consumers.

http://www.time.com/time/specials/packages/article/0,28804,1991915_1991909_1991785,00.html

80% of America’s Pre-Packaged Foods Are Toxic

In other places, but, such items are not available for purchase as a result of character of these ingredients. It’s not merely cereal and soda which contain dangerous and questionable ingredients, however. Based on authors of a brand new book titled Rich Food, Poor Food, very nearly 800-680 of America’s pre-packaged foods are restricted in other places around the globe. Mira and Jason Calton have authored Rich Food, Poor Food to shed light on a normally shadowy American food industry. Inside the book, the authors present a listing of ingredients that have been banned in other countries. Called Barred Bad Boys, these elements continue to be found in the production of an alarmingly high percentage of American convenience foods.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/80-of-americas-pre-packaged-foods-are-toxic/

What Are Benefits of B Vitamins

Much of the body's chemistry is determined by enzymes. Since vitamin B6 is associated with over 100 enzymatic reactions, its function in the body is diverse and far-reaching. First, it digests elements. It's hard to find a category of elements in the body that not depend in some manner on vitamin B6 for his or her production. Many of the building blocks of protein, called amino-acids, need sufficient supplies of B6 for synthesis. Nucleic acids used in the formation of DNA in our genes also need this vitamin.B vitamins also method carbohydrates, and support a healthy nervous system and k-calorie burning. Large amounts of vitamin B6 are lost during most types of processing and cooking, although historically described as among the most stable of the B vitamins.

http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=nutrient&dbid=108

Research Says B Vitamins Can Prevent Alzheimer's

Researchers at Oxford University have found an all-natural strategy to keep the mind healthy and functional, a key to avoiding the onset of Alzheimer’s and psychological decline disease. Furthermore, participants taking B-vitamins slowed the normal shrinkage of the brain by up to 50% (i). In line with the study, B-vitamins appear to play a significant part in the chemical reaction had a need to enhance several intellectual functions, including storage. One of the most important of the substances is an amino-acid called homocysteine. In healthier people, homocysteine is continuously converted into a variety of other important substances. One such substance is acetylcholine, an element that's proven to improve memory. For individuals who are emotionally healthier, homocysteine levels are reduced while acetylcholine levels are somewhat high—an indication that the mind is successfully changing one chemical to the other to be able to facilitate memory and other normal mental functions.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/can-b-vitamins-help-to-prevent-alzheimers/

Sign the Petition: Tell Dentsply to Stop Making Toxic Mercury Fillings

Consumers for Dental Choice has posted a new petition on Change.org for all those interested in urged Dentsply to cease the production of toxic dental amalgam. Dental amalgam contains high concentrations of mercury, a neurotoxin that is widely known to be hazardous to wildlife, ecosystems, and human health. As the 2nd largest producer of dental amalgam, Dentsply has the potential to have a lasting and positive impact on the health of both environment and consumers, simply by phasing out the production of dental amalgam.

http://www.change.org/petitions/dentsply-stop-making-mercury-dental-fillings

Dentsply Urged to Cease Production of Toxic Dental Amalgam

Pennsylvania citizens and representatives from more than a half dozen countries have issued a wake-up call to Dentsply. The company is the world's 2nd largest manufacturer of dental amalgam, a metallic mixture that was originally used to fill cavities and perform other restorative procedures in the 1900s-early 2000s. The material is being phased-out, however, due to high mercury content and potential danger to human health. It is quickly being dropped by dental practices around the world, and it has recently been removed from the curricula at the NYU College of Dentistry. As the 2nd largest manufacturer of toxic dental amalgam, Dentsply has been urged to cease production of this dangerous material.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/dentsply-urged-to-cease-production-of-toxic-dental-amalgam/

Fluoridealert.org: Get In the Know

Are you interested in staying up-to-date on the fluoride-free movement? Learn more about this controversial practice by connecting with Fluoride Alert.org, the leading advocacy group committed to spreading awareness for the toxicity of fluoride and the side effects of public water fluoridation.

http://www.fluoridealert.org/

Fluoridegate: Watch the Inside Story of Water Fluoridation

The body of research that indicates fluoride might be toxic and detrimental to long term health continues to grow, prompting many Americans to wonder why the mineral is added to public drinking water in the first place. Join the Miami Dentist Blog for this special documentary, "Fluoridegate: An American Tragedy." Watch for free, and learn the history behind one of the most controversial public health practices of the last century.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/fluoridegate-watch-the-inside-story-of-water-fluoridation/

Israel Lifts Water Mandate, No Longer Requires Fluoride

In news that has sparked buzz across the Web, Israel has announced that current mandates for water fluoridation are to be "phased out." This means citizens will no longer receive water that has been treated with fluoride, a practice that is still conducted by a majority of communities in the United States. Water fluoridation began in the early-to-mid 1900s as a means of efficiently distributing fluoride to the public. Fluoride was thought to harden tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay, though recent research indicates the practice may be both ineffective and extremely dangerous. In the past decade, a "fluoride free" movement has begun to make progress in removing fluoride from water, protecting citizens from the potentially toxic side effects of overexposure. For more on Israel's recent shift towards "fluoride free" water, visit this special report on the Miami Dentist Blog.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/fluoride-free-victory-israel-lifts-mandatory-water-fluoridation/

How to Avoid Insecticides in Fruits and Vegetables

Fresh fruits and vegetables are more than just delicious. These colorful foods are packed with the vitamins, minerals, and water our bodies need to make us look, feel, and function at our best. Health professionals have traditionally recommended eating about 2-4 servings of fruit and 7-13 servings of vegetables each day, however, that recommendation has nearly doubled in recent years. Unfortunately, the use of insecticides and other genetically modified organisms (GMOs) can pose a serious threat to long term health.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/how-to-avoid-insecticides-in-fruits-and-vegetables/

How to Avoid Insecticides in Fruits and Vegetables

Health experts report that individuals may reduce the amount of toxic pesticides they consume each day by up to 80%, simply by purchasing the correct kinds of produce. By understanding which fruits and vegetables are most contaminated and which are not, consumers can learn to make intelligent purchase decisions that will significantly benefit overall health. Choosing to purchase celery that is grown organically, for example, can reduce one's exposure to toxic insecticides. To learn more about which fruits and vegetables are most heavily contaminated with pesticides, and which are relatively "clean," visit this guide on the Miami Dentist Blog.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/how-to-avoid-insecticides-in-fruits-and-vegetables/

Minerals and Trace Minerals: Your Key to Naturally Strong Teeth and Gums

Most patients are shocked to learn that up to 5% of their body weight is composed of minerals like calcium, phosphorous, and potassium (i). Along with vitamins and other nutrients, minerals are essential in helping us look and feel our absolute best. When we don’t get a healthy amount of minerals each day, it becomes increasingly difficult for our bodies to perform basic functions. Over time, mineral deficiency may lead to a variety of very serious health conditions including anemia, osteoporosis, thyroid dysfunction, tooth decay, and gum disease.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/minerals-and-trace-minerals-your-key-to-naturally-strong-teeth-and-gums

Minerals and Trace Minerals: Your Key to Naturally Strong Teeth and Gums

Did You Know: The human body is comprised of up to 5% minerals. These essential building blocks of life are vital in conducting a number of important biological processes, like metabolizing food into energy and helping to maintain a healthy level of hydration. Minerals are also critical in building and maintaining a naturally healthy smile. Calcium and phosphorous, in particular, re-mineralize and strengthen tooth enamel so decay is less likely to take shape. Many individuals fail to get a healthy balance of both major and trace minerals-- all of which are equally important when it comes to strengthening oral health and wellness. To learn more about essential minerals for holistic health, visit this guide on the Miami Dentist Blog.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/minerals-and-trace-minerals-your-key-to-naturally-strong-teeth-and-gums

Fluoride Free Movement Sees Unprecedented Momentum in 2013

The beginning of 2013 has been an eventful and progressive time for the fluoride-free water movement. As of March, at least 9 new communities have put an end to public water fluoridation. Elimination of these programs means an additional 372,626 Americans will be protected from the potentially toxic side effects of fluoride exposure, according to statistics gathered by the Fluoride Action Network.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/fluoride-free-movement-sees-unprecedented-momentum-in-2013/

Fluoride Free Movement Sees Unprecedented Momentum in 2013

The fluoride-free lobby has enjoyed unprecedented forward progress in the start of 2013. Nine communities have spoken out, insisting that their municipality leaders shut-down water fluoridation programs that are notorious for treating water with unregulated and potentially dangerous amounts of fluoride. Though fluoride is held as an essential mineral in fighting tooth decay, proponents of the fluoride-free movement point to the alarming fact that no clinical evidence supports such a claim. Instead, an overwhelming amount of evidence suggests that treating water with fluoride can be toxic and extremely dangerous, particularly for infants who are fed store-bought formula that is mixed with tap water. Researchers from around the world, including those from Harvard and the World Health Organization, have also publicly stated that the fluoride content of public drinking water is a cause for concern. Visit the Miami Dentist Blog for this exclusive on the fluoride-free movement, and learn mor

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/fluoride-free-movement-sees-unprecedented-momentum-in-2013/

Wichita Paper Mislead Residents, Says Harvard Fluoride Study is 'Not Applicable'

Is adding fluoride to public drinking water a good thing? For many, the answer seems obvious: Yes. Television commercials, oral hygiene products, and even traditional dentists actively endorse fluoride as a safe and effective way to prevent tooth decay. Many are surprised to learn, however, that there is no clinical evidence to support such a claim. The tide is beginning to turn, and communities across America are putting an end to water fluoridation programs that are not only a danger to residents, but also an unnecessary cost to the municipality. Read more about this controversial issue, and learn why communities are increasingly turning towards fluoride-free water, only on the Miami Dentist Blog.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/wichita-paper-misleads-residents-says-harvard-fluoride-study-is-not-applicable/

Wichita Paper Mislead Residents, Says Harvard Fluoride Study is 'Not Applicable'

For nearly a century, government agencies in the U.S. have been proponents of adding fluoride to public water as a means of reducing the incidence of tooth decay. To date, there is no clinical evidence to support such a claim. Around the world, agencies have produced numerous studies suggesting the direct opposite, that the systemic consumption (via water) of fluoride may have sever health side effects. Most recently, a Harvard study published findings suggesting that the toxicity of fluoridated water is an issue that "definitely deserves concern." The pro-fluoride lobby showed intention to deceive the residents of Wichita, Kansas, earlier this year, mis-quoting the Harvard study in an effort to garner public support for the local fluoridation program. Read more about this controversial issue, and learn why communities are increasingly turning towards fluoride-free water, only on the Miami Dentist Blog.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/wichita-paper-misleads-residents-says-harvard-fluoride-study-is-not-applicable/

Should I Take Fish Oil Supplements?

When it comes to a balanced diet, fish oil is one nutrient that consumers may have no choice but to purchase in supplement form. This is because fish oil is essential in promoting holistic health and well being, yet the body does not naturally produce it. High quality fish oil supplements can also provide the optimal balance of essential oils (omega-3s and 6s), which is something that is lacking in most American diets. Read more about the benefits of fish oil, and learn how to select the supplement that's right for you.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/should-i-take-fish-oil-supplements/

Should I Take Fish Oil Supplements?

Many individuals prefer to avoid health supplements, fearing that many are a waste of money that delivers little nutritional value. This is a stereotype that has been driven by the introduction of low-cost multivitamins to stores, a fad that has been perpetuated over the past decade as consumers have shifted towards a "cost savings" approach to wellness-related expenditures. In truth, high quality supplements are still the best way to get healthy daily doses of certain nutrients that are difficult to get with natural food alone. Fish oil is the perfect example. Under the supervision of a professional, up to 5 grams of certain fish oils can carry tremendous health benefits, yet such an amount is nearly impossible to get through eating fish alone. Join the Miami Dentist Blog for this guide to selecting a healthy fish oil supplement.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/should-i-take-fish-oil-supplements/

Is There Aspartame in My Milk?

Consumers and health advocates are buzzing with news that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) may no longer require the manufacturers of dairy products to label items that contain Aspartame. If passed, the exception will make it impossible for consumers to tell whether or not milk, yogurt, and up to 11 other dairy products contain Aspartame. A highly controversial artificial sweetener, Aspartame is thought by many physicians to cause serious health issues. To learn more about this new lobbying effort, and to find ways to share your opinion with Congress, visit this article on the Miami Dentist Blog.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/is-there-aspartame-in-my-milk/

Are Mercury Fillings Safe?

The use of mercury fillings has decreased by 30 percent in the last decade, but according to the American Dental Association, hundreds of millions of people still have them in their mouths. Even today, with all of the information pointing to mercury’s toxicity, dentists still use it to fill cavities of 50 million teeth each year. Mercury is a known neurotoxin, and its exposure is known to cause impaired cognitive skills, tremors and sleep disturbance in people with continued exposure, even at low levels. Even a short duration of mercury exposure can cause chest pain, cough, difficulty breathing, impaired lung function and negative effects to the central nervous system. So why is this substance still used in dentsitry?

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/are-mercury-fillings-safe

Are Mercury Fillings Safe?

Chest pain, uncontrollable coughing, dizziness, and tremors are each side effects of mercury exposure. So why is this material used to fill cavities? The "mercury controversy" has been a very real issue in the dental community for nearly 5 decades. From the traditional standpoint, dental amalgam was (at one time) approved by the ADA and considered safe for use in dental procedures. Today, holistic dental practitioners understand that the long-term consequences of using mercury-rich dental amalgam may include immune system damage, loss of cognitive skills, kidney impairment, central nervous system damage, and a variety of other very serious health issues. In 2012, great progress was made towards a mercury-free future when the New York University College of Dentistry officially banned the use of dental amalgam in their clinics and removed it from students' competency exams.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/are-mercury-fillings-safe

Does Gluten Cause Weight Gain?

Research published in the January 2013 Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry explains that the major factor of obesity is not calories, but gluten. It says that weight gain from wheat consumption isn’t from the calories, but from the gluten proteins that disrupt the endocrine and exocrine systems in the body and alters metabolism causing weight gain. A gluten-free diet has been thought to prevent diseases like Celiac disease and obesity, but hadn’t been studied. Therefore, research was conducted on two sets of rats to compare a gluten-free diet to a gluten-based diet. Both groups were fed high-fat diets, but one group was fed 4.5 percent gluten while the other group was kept gluten free. Researchers then compared 16 different markers like body weight, insulin resistance and blood lipid profiles in both groups of rats.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/does-gluten-cause-weight-gain/

Does Gluten Cause Weight Gain?

In 2013, the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry published a new insight on diet and weight loss that shocked many Americans. In the Journal, researchers stated that gluten was the #1 cause for weight gain for individuals who consume wheat products like bread. This comes as a surprise to many because weight gain has traditionally been explained as a function of "calories in, calories out." Put another way, it used to be common knowledge that weight gain occurs when one eats more calories than he or she burns throughout the course of the day. Now, new studies indicate that gluten can more substantially contribute to weight gain than excessive calories. But how can this be? To learn more about gluten, gluten allergy, and weight gain, visit this special health report on the Miami Dentist Blog.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/does-gluten-cause-weight-gain/

How to Avoid Processed Foods

In the last 50 years, American culture has embraced the convenience and ultra-tastey nature of processed foods. From high-fructose juice drinks to heavily processed breakfast bars, it's hard to go a day without seeing dozens of examples of food items that have been laced with additives. Alarmingly, researchers from around the world are beginning to produce studies that link these food additives with serious illnesses like obesity, type II diabetes, and cancer. The most important additives to know and avoid include trans fat, excessive sodium, and high-fructose corn syryup. Read more about avoiding processed foods, and learn how a diet free of these food additives can dramatically increase your health and well-being.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/how-to-avoid-processed-foods/

Health Alert: Processed Foods May Double Risk of Colon Cancer

In recent years, the American population has experienced increases in the rates of colon cancer, obesity, and processed food conception. As a consequence, health experts and scientists from around the world have begun to question how each trend may be related to the next. Examining the link between processed food consumption and cancer is not new, however. In 2012, researchers at Harvard Medical School produced evidence linking the consumption of high fructose corn syrup with the growth of cancerous tumors. Now, however, it seems that other processed food additives may increase the risk of colon cancer by up to 100%. To learn more, visit the Miami Dentist Blog for this exclusive.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/health-alert-processed-foods-may-double-risk-of-colon-cancer/

Assure A Smile Supports a 'Fluoride Free Florida'

Water fluoridation is the process by which the mineral fluoride is added to public drinking water. This practice began in the early 1900s as a widespread effort to reduce the incidence of tooth decay. However, there has never been a clinical study produced that shows evidence that fluoride reduces tooth decay. Much to the contrary, there are mounting stacks of studies that indicate fluoride ingestion may cause allergic reaction, kidney damage, fluorosis, and other serious health problems. 'Flouride Free Florida' is an advocacy group dedicated to the elimination of the dangerous and costly practice of community water fluoridation. To learn more about this group and the dangerous of fluoridated water, visit this article on the Miami Dentist Blog.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/assure-a-smile-supports-a-fluoride-free-florida/

Can Chelation Therapy Fight Cardiovascular Disease?

Chelation therapy first became popular in the 1950s as a method of treating heavy metal poisoning. Some 40 years ago, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) named the medical treatment both safe and effective in treating lead poisoning. Since that time, chelation therapy has become a popular treatment for individuals who wish to cleanse their bodies of heavy metal accumulation. Since the body cannot naturally break-down and excrete heavy metals, chelation therapy plays a critical role in flushing these toxic substances from the body. Otherwise, they may accumulate over time and cause serious illness. Most recently, health professionals have produced evidence that chelation therapy may also be used to fight cardiovascular disease. To learn more about these recent findings, visit this exclusive health report on the Miami Dentist Blog.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/can-chelation-therapy-fight-cardiovascular-disease/

Top 10 Reasons to Oppose Water Fluoridation

There are many reasons to oppose water fluoridation. For one, water fluoridation administers fluoride (a FDA certified 'drug') to the public without their consent. Considered by many to be an unconscionable act, the administration of fluoride to the public via drinking water violates our basic rights as citizens. Moreover, fluoridated water is unable to be regulated and controlled. Fluoride that is added to public water is easily ingested as both tap water as well as water in processed foods, drinks, wines, and other consumer products. Fluoride toxicity is a very real danger, and the lack of regulation has many Americans worried. Visit the Miami Dentist Blog to read these top 10 reasons to oppose water fluoridation, as presented by health experts and anti-fluoride activist groups.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/top-10-reasons-to-oppose-water-fluoridation/

North Americans Unite, Voting to End Water Fluoridation

The year 2012 saw an unprecedented shift in momentum for the anti-fluoride lobby. Last year, more health professionals, activists, and North American residents rallied together than in any year prior. For the first time, a nationwide front has begun to form against the practice of water fluoridation. While health experts cite research indicating that fluoridated water is harmful to major organ systems, other concerned citizens are simply "anti fluoride" because they do not wish to be exposed to a drug without their consent. From Missouri to Saskatchewan, large and small communities across North America are protesting the practice of water fluoridation. Learn more about these communities, and explore the rational behind the anti-fluoride movement, only on the Miami Dentist Blog.

http://www.assureasmile.com/miami-dentist-blog/north-americans-unite-voting-to-end-water-fluoridation/