SMILING

By Gerald P. Curatola, D.D.S. posted on DR OZ 03/16/11

Throughout my search for nature’s power nutritionals, my personal discovery of the intense biodynamic power of the tiny berry fruit of sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.), a multipurpose wonder plant, harvested high in the Tibetan Himalayas, ranks among the best. The incredibly high antioxidant properties of the sea buckthorn berry, along with its anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties and its ability to be immune-supportive, make this an outstanding superfood to improve oral health and total body wellness.

Largely unknown to many in the Western medical community, the use of sea buckthorn for medical application has been widely known and revered by Tibetan doctors dating back to the Tang Dynasty (617-907). Its beneficial properties are also acknowledged in ayurvedic medicine as far back as 5000 BC. The subject of intensive research by Chinese, Russian and Indian scientists, sea buckthorn oil has even been used to reduce the risk of radiation burns for Russian astronauts working in space.

Quite possibly the most fully-balanced fruit on the planet, the sea buckthorn berry can be considered a “multivitamin” all by itself, containing 190 biologically active nutrients. These include vitamins A, B1, B2, C, D, E (tocopherols), K, P, carotenoids, flavonoids, amino acids, phenols, folic acid, organic acids, and 20 mineral elements. A rich source of essential fatty acids (or EFAs), sea buckthorn oil is the only known plant in the world to contain omega 3, 6, 7 and 9 together.

The benefits of this über-fruit have been documented in over 130 scientific studies, including its vitamin C content, which is 10 times greater than oranges; sea buckthorn has nearly as much vitamin E as wheat germ, 3 times more vitamin A than carrots, and 4 times more superoxide dismutase (SOD), the most important enzyme to prevent free radical damage to cells, than ginseng.

In 1939, renowned dentist and nutrition pioneer of the early 20^th century, Dr. Weston Price, published a famous text entitled, Nutrition and Physical Degeneration: A Comparison of Modern Diets and Their Effects. In his research, Price theorized that as non-Western cultures and peoples abandoned indigenous diets and adopted Western patterns of living, they also increased typically Western diseases, especially oral disease.

He reasoned that Western diets were deficient of key vitamins and minerals, especially EFAs (essential fatty acids), which were necessary to prevent those diseases. He even declared a “dietary shortage of fat-soluble vitamins” a “great national problem.” Dr. Price’s observations ring surprisingly true today. Study after study has shown the origins of oral disease – both gum disease and tooth decay remain in epidemic incidence – due to nutritional deficiency, especially of key antioxidants necessary for proper cellular function.

And, the problems of oral disease are not confined to the mouth, but have been shown to have ravaging effects on many of the body’s organ systems and total body wellness. Dr. Price would be relieved to have known of the Western emergence of sea buckthorn oil – venerated by Tibetans as “the Holy Fruit of the Himalayas.” It’s no wonder the Dalai Lama is smiling!

1. Don’t Wait ‘Til It Hurts. This old adage continues to ring true today. So many patients procrastinate a checkup or treatment simply because of the false notion that “nothing hurts.” Gum disease is a silent, painless, progressive killer of teeth that is also a source of chronic low-grade inflammation to the whole body. Tooth decay is also painless until it becomes deep, which puts you at risk of needing more extensive dentistry such as root canal treatment.

2. Plan your work and work your plan. Always get a prioritized treatment plan for the problems that may exist in your mouth. Even if you cannot do all the treatment at the same time, you can get your treatment done in order of importance or necessity to minimize incurring unnecessary costs from disconnected “patchwork” dentistry.

3. Good dentistry may be expensive, but not as much as bad dentistry. Many patients try to “shop” for the cheapest dentist they can find. Often, unknowingly these patients can find themselves in inexperienced hands or with a dentist who uses inferior materials or laboratory services, resulting in ill-fitting dental appliances or dentistry that fails or breaks down quickly.

4. Change the oil. The same way that you need to maintain that new car that you drive off the lot, many patients finish large treatment plans and do not understand the need for follow up care or maintenance. Besides the obvious benefits of prevention, the periodic maintenance is a key component of your ability to function with any restorative treatment you may receive, and the ability of this dentistry to last – including fillings, to veneers, crowns, implants and dentures.

5. The head bone’s connected to the neck bone. In other words, your mouth is very much a reflection of what can be going on in the rest of your body, and the oral/systemic link is a major topic of interest in medical research. In fact, oral disease puts you at greater risk of diseases of your heart, brain, liver, and pancreas to name a few. Conversely, good oral health is linked to living a longer and healthier life. Keep those regular dental checkups and cleanings.

GLOW Spring 2011

IF YOU HAVE EVER invested in improving the interior of your home, you will no doubt identify with what is referred to as “the domino factor” of design (also known as “all-I did-was-buy-a-new duvet-and-now-the-whole-house needs-hardwoods.”) One improvement, however seemingly insignificant, only accentuates that which is unimproved. This same premise applies to facial aesthetics. Whether we are talking about a full face and neck lift or a simple nonsurgical procedure, like fillers, the result will be a refreshed, rejuvenated appearance. You will look in the mirror and smile. But what will you (and others) see?

THE RELATIONSHIP OF TEETH TO OVERALL FACIAL SYMMETRY

Dento-facial aesthetics is the evaluation of teeth as they relate to other facial structures with consideration given to the overall facial symmetry. Since the teeth support the lips and lower third of the face, a restorative decision can have a dramatic effect on a patient’s appearance. According to Dr. Gerry Curatola, one of the premier leading edge rejuvenation dentists in the country, your teeth are not only part of facial aesthetics, but should be fixed prior to any surgical or non-surgical facial procedures. “The face, teeth and mouth are not mutually exclusive. They are more integrated than you might guess both in form and function. If you think about your smile as being the cornerstone of your expression, you begin to recognize the importance of investing in strong, beautiful, healthy teeth as part of improving your facial features and appearance.”

It’s important to first understand the pivotal relationship between teeth and facial structure. The analogy Dr. Curatola uses is borrowed from architecture. “If the face was a building, think of the teeth as providing the steel skeleton supporting the structure. They influence the walls and floors from both an aesthetic and foundational point of view. Teeth can change the features of a face, for better or for worse. Rejuvenation dentistry gives us a quiver full of options to offer patients.”

ORTHODONTICS: OVER BITES, UNDER BITES, AND CROSS BITES

One of the first areas of dento-facial aesthetics crosses all age and gender boundaries orthodontics. Even teenagers who are far from fighting age related concerns experience the positive influence of orthodontia. Overbites, under bites and cross bites, once corrected affect the profile of the face and complement the facial features. Dr. Curatola makes the point that straight teeth are not the only benefit of orthodontics. “The correction will also prevent gum problems and premature wearing of the teeth. Healthy gums and a properly aligned bite are two vital elements of a healthy mouth. Braces are not just for teens anymore. Today we are able to do things less invasively and more conservatively with Invisalign. It’s never been easier or more convenient. No brackets, wires or cement, and the results are fantastic. Creating a firm foundation yields a lifetime of benefits on so many levels.”

RESTORING THE HAPPY FACE

As we age, misaligned, missing or otherwise damaged teeth can have profound effects on facial structure. Volume loss and subsequent sagging begin in the lower half of the face where the teeth play a critical role in supporting the surrounding tissue. Dr. Curatola explains. “Your front teeth wear down first, making the side and back teeth longer. This causes the shape of the mouth to take on an inverted smile. The saggingchin, collapsed upper lip, nasolabial folds and marionette lines all become exaggerated. Most people panic and run to a plastic surgeon to lift their features — not realizing that facial rejuvenation starts with the mouth. Facelifts, eyelid lifts, brow lifts, lip lifts — none of them will restore a ‘happy face’ if the teeth are not in alignÏment.”

A 52year old female

Subject is a 52 year old female, who presented with an anterior open bite, flared incisors, and
retruded lower jaw (Class II malocclusion) resulting in “sagging” below the neck, and a “gummy
smile.” The treatment plan included occlusal (bite) rehabilitation and opening the posterior
vertical dimension with E-max crowns, followed by crown lengthening on the maxillary anterior
teeth to eliminate the “gummy smile.” (Periodontal surgery performed by Rejuvenation Dentistry
Periodontist, Navid Rahmani, D.D.S.) This was followed by the final placement of Porcelain
Laminate Veneers on the anterior teeth. The after photos show improved facial profile and
elimination of “sagging” neck and “gummy smile.”

A visit to a rejuvenation dentist prior to facial enhancement is right in step with the trend toward a “less is more” philosophy regarding surgical intervention. In fact, Dr. Curatola believes when a facelift is done before teeth are restored, the surgery will have to be more extensive to make up for the support lacking in the mouth.

Patient had an anterior open bite

In some cases, surgery can be sidestepped altogether and/or fewer injectables will be necessary. Dr. Curatola has restored and rebuilt lips just by improving the teeth. If the angle of the teeth is causing a thin upper lip, plumping the two front teeth results in a fuller upper lip. By correcting the bite the lower jaw is tightened and a retruded or double chin is minimized — all without surgery.

HOLISTIC LIP AUGMENTATION

One of the most popular non invasive aesthetic treatments is lip augmentation. This procedure, more than any other will bring focus on the teeth, so it’s imperative you are not calling attention to a less than perfect smile. Dr. Curatola stresses his role in a holistic lip augmentation. “Lips should be done after the teeth are done. In fact many dentists are well trained and well suited to provide lip enhancement as an adjunct service. In any case, we are uniquely qualifiedto frame the teeth to create the perfect picture.”

Dr. Curatola circles back to the interior design analogy. “As a rejuvenation dentist we can optimize many anti-aging therapies. The greatest benefit to the patient is realized if they plan to visit us first. But if they come after the fact, we can complete their new look. What I hate to see is beautiful cheekbones, high brows and full lips framing bad teeth. It’s like layering exquisite draperies over a broken, dirty or cracked window. There should be no compromise.”

An 18 Year Old Male

Subject is an 18 year old male, born with underdevelopment of maxillary (upper) jaw and missing and malformed maxillary incisors,
resulting in poor upper lip support. Dental reconstruction performed with E-max ceramic laminate veneers and E-max ceramic crowns.
Post operative photos reveal improved facial profile with increased upper lip support.

It’s never too early to consider role of teeth and never too late to start taking care of yourself. In your 20’s teeth whitening may be all you need to ramp up your smile. Be sure your teeth are healthy so you are confident there is a good foundation for the future. By the 30’s and 40’s many of us are picking up parafunctional habits. In other words, our stress is causing clenching and grinding. In extreme cases the wear on our teeth translates into fractures and TMJ pain. A rejuvenation dentist can build up broken teeth with crowns and veneers or alleviate TMJ side effects with something as simple as a night guard. If precautions are not taken prior to midlife, the 50’s and 60’s will not be much to smile about according to Dr. Curatola. “It all starts with loss of bone around teeth, then gum recession. It’s unfortunate when you see a patient with premature loss of teeth, whether due to wear and tear or periodontal problems. This situation makes the entire face age prematurely as well. This unsightly expression is often referred to as ‘long in the tooth.’ We now have implant reconstruction which promotes regrowth of bone around the implant fixture which reconstructs the mouth and provides whole new support for face.”

ANTI-AGING NUTRITIONAL PROTOCOL
Feed your smile with Dr. Curatola’s alkaline promoting/low acidic diet. “Establishing a favorable eating protocol is an essential part of maintaining overall health and longevity. Sugar and carbs are acidic and cause breakdowns in the ecology of the mouth, interfering with existing dental work. Poor eating habits can also lead to systemic issues and chronic disease”, says Dr. Curatola.
Recognizing the link between nutritional habits and good oral health, patients of Dr. Curatola are provided complete nutritional analysis, and customized programs , by Dr. Fran Gare, who is an integral part of his team. Dr. Fran Gare is a Clinical Nutritionist and Naturopathic Physician, well known in the field of complimentary nutrition.

THE A-LIST DIET
A proactive approach begins with diet and eating natural foods that are important “A’s” of the A List Diet.

Alkalizing
Often chronic conditions are worse when the body is acidic. Choosing foods that can have an alkalizing effect helps to alleviate a propensity toward infections. Choose alkalizing fruits such as watermelon, tangerine, pineapple and raspberry and take supplements such as Quercitin, a bioflavonoid, and buffered vitamin C.

Anti-inflammatory
Many foods can serve as inflammatory triggers. The most common are dairy and gluten. These triggers can vary for some people so a food allergy/ sensitivity test can help to tailor you own person anti-inflammatory diet. Turmeric and ginger are great natural anti-inflammatory spices. Also supplements such as omega-3 essential fatty acids contain eicosapentaenoicacid (EPA), which
is a natural anti inflammatory.

Antioxidant-rich
Eating foods that are high in important antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, coenzyme Q-10, vitamin B, Panthothenic acid, Quercitin and vitamin A are all essential when your immune system is “on high alert.” Stress or allergies can wreak havoc on the body putting you at greater risk for some cancers. Again, Quercitin is a powerful antioxidant that has also been shown to block the release of the body’s own histamines. Antioxidant-rich foods are many of the leafy greens, and apples remain a gold standard for health. Other powerful natural foods are cherries, broccoli, avocados and pears.

The A-List Diet

Dr. Gerald P. Curatola practices from offices in Manhattan and East Hampton. Schedule a consultation by calling 212-355-4777 / 631-324-6800 or visit http:// www.RejuvDentist.com

GLOW SPRING/SUMMER ‘11 Th e Ma g a z i n e A b o u t B e a u t y , H e a l t h A n d We l l n e s s

The Dr. Oz show producers contacted me to appear on his show in a segment that highlighted the physical and psychological pain of dental disease and breakdown. They asked my assistance in finding a very “graphic case” of a patient in “breakdown,” who could not afford to restore their mouth and was emotionally affected as well. Almost on cue, a patient who had been searching for “a really good dentist” on the internet, appeared in my office and proceeded to tell her story of dental problems  from childhood, and lots of bad dentistry along the way, affecting her life in every way imaginable. Tears flowed from her as she continued to share her story by finishing that she “probably couldn’t afford it,” but would like my opinion anyway.

Bonnie was interviewed in her home and informed by Dr. Oz that she was getting a “full mouth makeover” and a black car and driver were waiting outside to take her to my Park Avenue office. Her reaction was one of disbelief and within 2 hours she was in my dental chair to begin a major restorative dental case. Here’s the best part, the producers needed Bonnie finished in just 4 days to appear before a live audience of over 200 guests on the Dr. Oz Show. Over four hours of prepping, impressions and fabrication of temporary restorations was followed by the insertion of crowns, veneers and bridgework, which was only made possible by the efforts of my master ceramist, Roberto Rossi  working virtually around the clock to have the finished case ready for me to insert before the show.

Her dental case was placed in like “Cindarella’s glass slipper.” Bonnie reported no pain or discomfort and claimed her whole body felt better from her bite being restored too. Friday was the big day for her “unveiling” and it was a giant WOW!! to everyone involved. Tears were flowing again from a woman who was in disbelief, not only in her personal physical and emotional transformation, but that kindness and generosity from a team of people who gave the best of themselves in the process.

The positive spirit generated by this segment was experienced by everyone, Dr. Oz, the producers, stage crew, and audience. That is the power of giving. I want to extend a big thank you to my dental assistant Mallory Herlin, and NY office manger Megan Domeck, Dr. Fran Gare who came to offer nutritional advice to Bonnie, in addition to Ralph Orozco, my right hand, who is always there to help in any way. The production team from Dr. Oz under producer, Geoff Rosen, and field producer, Nicole Giambrone, were terrific with every accommodation. The East Hampton staff, my blogging genius assistant, and lastly but not least of all my very patient wife, Georgia, who was “holding up the fort” on many other levels, made this event possible. However, the biggest thanks must go to my friend, my fellow “Roman paisano,” colleague and terrific dental ceramist, Roberto Rossi, who made the “smile magic” porcelain veneers and crowns behind the scenes- and through the night together. Thank you again, and God bless you all. We truly changed a woman’s life. It is written that the “eyes are the window to the soul” but I like to say that the “smile is the window to the spirit” and Bonnie’s joyful spirit was coming through like a “laser beam” after her transformation.

I can honestly say this makes the work we do so rewarding, and being a part of this demanding production was inspiring.

Dr Gerry Curatola with Dr OZ

I am now contributing to the DR OZ blog and you can read my posts at http://www.doctoroz.com/expert/gerald-p-curatola-dds

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Lady Gaga - CC via Flickr by ama_lia

This month I have been a spokesperson for early detection of Oral Cancer- “the cancer you can catch.” The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) virus, an epidemically sexually transmitted infection in the United States, has  become the largest growing risk factor for Oral Cancer  in the very same demographic that Lady Gaga was referring to. Transmitted by oral sex, HPV, the same virus responsible for the majority of cervical cancers, is becoming responsible for oral cancer in young people with no other risk factors. In addition, the HPV virus shares an insidious relationship with its deadly “cousin,” the HIV virus. People living with HIV are much more at risk for HPV complications, and women, in particular, living with HIV tend to have multiple types of HPV infection.

As a healthcare professional and the father of three children now between the ages of 17-25, I am often on the “educational pulpit” preaching across a generational gap that doesn’t always get the strongest reception. So I felt a debt of gratitude to the young artist who, while shooting to stardom, has embraced a higher sense of responsibility to her idolizing young fans. In the same interview Lady Gaga stated, “when you’re in the public eye, you’re a role model whether you want to be or not. And I want to be,” She added, “I’m not one of those self-obsessed artists who don’t care about their fans. It’s not just about the music.”

While much has been reported on the unconventional image of this young singer, I believe this time Lady Gaga has hit the perfect note.  She said, “Something I do want to celebrate with my fans is that it’s okay to be whomever it is that you want to be. You don’t have to have sex to feel good about yourself, and if you’re not ready, don’t do it … It’s cooler to be strong and independent.” That’s probably one of the best health messages, on so many levels, that I have heard in a long time. Thank you, thank you Lady Gaga!

Differin

Pearly White Teeth for Christmas

1. Get that end-of-the-year cleaning. A professional prophylaxis by a dental hygienist removes calculus or tartar (those ‘barnacle-like’ formations on teeth) that stains teeth and causes gums to become unhealthy and swollen. The prophylaxis or polishing can get your teeth up to a spiffy shine too. Remember, many insurance plans pay 100 percent for two cleanings a year and chances are you may have used just one in this calendar year.

2. Ask your dentist or dental hygienist if they offer a special discount on teeth whitening. Many offices do at this time of year, especially when done after a dental cleaning. If not, go online. There are many ‘dental spas’ that offer a safe, quick and easy whitening that will turn up the wattage on your smile!

3. Chill out on the holiday sweets. Sugar is the great “smile buster” and not just because it promotes cavities. Sugar causes an imbalance in the natural protective bacteria in the mouth called the oral biofilm. When balanced, or in homeostasis, your teeth stay white and are more resistant to stain. When unbalanced from the acidic ph-effects of sugar, unhealthy and smelly, staining plaque forms. If you do have some holiday sweets, make sure you also go for the alkaline forming greens and fiber-rich whole grains too.

4. Watch the booze and drink water. Alcohol dehydrates your mouth (and body) promoting unsightly decay and gum disease. Rule of thumb is to drink at least a glass of water in between every alcoholic beverage to stay hydrated, and for goodness’ sake – don’t drive.

5. Don’t forget to stock up on some important smile-friendly nutritional supplements. Vitamin C, vitamin E, Coenzyme Q-10, folic Acid, MSM, vitamin A and B-Complex, calcium, magnesium and vitamin D are all nutritional cornerstones for healthy teeth and gums. Holiday season can be exhausting and get you run down. You body burns lots of antioxidants, and supplements are a key way to keep your body and smile healthy.

Here’s wishing you a holiday that’s full of warm smiles, peace and happiness into the New Year!
Dr. Gerry Curatola is a renowned aesthetic dentist and pioneer in the emerging field of rejuvenation dentistry, which improves patients’ overall health and appearance by integrating total wellness with cutting edge oral care and restorative procedures. In addition to his private practice, research, and work as a Clinical Associate Professor at NYU College of Dentistry, he is an internationally sought after speaker, author and expert who has been featured widely in print and broadcast media. For more information, go to www.rejuvdentist.com.

Dr Gerry Curatola

There are leaders in their specialty who set the proverbial bar, and then there are visionaries who refashion the bar altogether. Meet Dr. Gerry Curatola who is the personification of the voice of change in the way the world not only practices, but views dentistry. An accomplished aesthetic dentist, he is recognized internationally as a speaker, author and research specialist with a strong emphasis on natural therapeutic approaches to building dental health which he insists is an essential component to living a longer and healthier life.

Q. In the last issue of GLOW you talked about Rejuvenation Dentistry. Can you define this for those who didn’t have the opportunity to see the article?

A. Rejuvenation means more than a smile makeover. After years of practice as a cosmetic dentist with a strong background in integrative medicine, I became determined to transform the practice of dentistry through redefining the traditional role of the dentist — from treating dental disease to recognizing the unique opportunities we have to improve patient’s lives by incorporating wellness models, from nutritional counseling, screening for systemic diseases, and a host of integrative therapies. In many cases, we see the patient more often than their primary physician. By utilizing our unique contact with patients and practicing a higher level of observation, we can essentially merge beauty and wellness. After all, aging baby boomers don’t want to settle for just looking younger — but living longer.

Q. You’ve been quoted as saying your mission is treating conditions of the mouth as effects rather than causes of illness. Will you explain?

A. We should not be satisfied simply being “mechanics-ofthe-teeth” but rather “physicians-of- the-mouth.” It’s important to identify causes and not just treat the symptoms. Patients with extensive decay, who also reported excessive thirst and hunger, were referred and later discovered to have diabetes. Bleeding gums may not always be gum disease, but something more serious like a platelet disorder. In fact, gum disease puts patients at 10 times greater risk for heart attacks — more than that of high cholesterol. Grinding teeth sounds pedestrian, but has been linked to imbalances in the thyroid.

Research confirms oral disease is linked to many systemic illnesses including diabetes and heart conditions. Today I regularly work with medical and integrative practitioners to help my patients maintain a state of homeostasis, or balance. We’ve patented terrific nutritional and homeopathic oral care products under the Revitin brand.

Q.You say you have a global vision for a new practice model when it comes to dentistry. Elaborate on the concept for our readers.

A. Although it sounds lofty, my goal is to transform the face of dentistry not only in America but around the world — no boundaries. My model for Rejuvenation Dentistry is currently in place in London, Paris, Rome and soon Shanghai and Abu Dhabi. The approach is more a wellness model vs. a dentistry model. Basically, I am using the practice of dentistry as a platform for influencing total body wellness. Chinese and ayurvedic medicine complement this holistic approach and become very powerful when brought up to western standards.

Q.Rumor has it that you treat a lot of celebrities. You’ve been referred to as “Dentist to the Stars?” or the A-List Dentist.

A. It’s true that I have had the privilege to improve the smiles of many people who are household names — movie stars, models, singers, designers, athletes, politicians — all interesting folks. But for every patient who is a rock star, there is also a working class fisherman. In some ways, some of the most fascinating people are those who maintain an unassuming profile and modest lifestyle. I believe we all have a uniqueness that can offer inspiration to others. Most of all, at our offices I would hope everyone leaves feeling like a celebrity.

Singing with Billy Joel

Q.What was one of the most memorable celebrity interactions you experienced?

A. I would say one of the highlights of my career was being invited by my patient, Billy Joel, to sing solo on stage at the MGM Grand (two nights in a row) and receiving a standing ovation by approximately 16,000 fans. I have been told I sound like a young Tony Bennett and I received my first singing award at six years old. Joining Martha Stewart on her show with Emeril Lagassi, and being invited by Dr. Oz as a spokesperson for the early detection of Oral Cancer, were also memorable and rewarding. I am proud to be affiliated with FOX and Fox News as their resident oral health expert. I’ve also been featured on all the networks for segments on aesthetic dentistry and rejuvenation dentistry.

Q.Is this why your upcoming book is entitled, ‘Dr. Gerry and the A-List’?

A. “Yes and no.” The reason is it’s not all about celebrities. It is about all the “A’s” that are important to me: anti-aging, altruism, and accessibility. My book will certainly capture the public’s fascination with celebrity but I also want them to identify with my philosophy about wellness. This is based on the A list nutritional protocol. I’d like people to understand the important link between a healthy mouth and their health in general. It’s the most effective way to strengthen the body’s immune system including our ability to heal. Altruism and humanitarian efforts are part of my personal mission. And remaining accessible to my patients keeps me close to my roots.

Q.Aside from running your practice, you dedicate some of your time to more altruistic endeavors. Tell us about a few of those.

A. I’ve always believed if you are fortunate enough to be blessed, then you must give back by being a blessing to others. Some of the charitable services I offer include treating victims of domestic violence. Many times the violence ends up with broken teeth. I remember one in particular. She was like a beautiful flower that had been stepped on. A victim of domestic violence from childhood and at 26 years old, a battered mother of four children, I was able to restore her smile with gentleness and compassion which literally restored her back to life and even working as a model. Eventually, she was motivated to take in foster children and work in not-forprofit herself. A great story of playing it forward. I have also been a supporter and founding board member of a local children’s dental charity, PDF, for over a decade, and started an annual art exhibit in the Hamptons for a wonderful program called Celebrating The Creative Spirit, at United Cerebral Palsy in New York City and Long Island. A bit further from home, I’m one of a group involved in building a medical/dental clinic in an orphanage in India. There’s profound satisfaction in that kind of endeavor.

Q.After practicing dentistry for 27 years, what has changed and what has stayed the same?

A. One of the reasons I continue to teach as a Clinical Associate Professor at New York University College of Dentistry, is because I am given opportunity to inspire young dentists while immersing myself in the continuing evolution of dentistry. It keeps me in a dynamic environment and in touch with new dental products, procedures and technology. That’s how you continue to provide the highest level of care — by staying close to the leading edge treatments. One of them is the CEREC CAD/CAM ceramic reconstruction system introduced by the Sirona Company. I became involved at its inception in the early 1990’s, and again in 2010. It is now at a level of development that enables us to provide beautiful aesthetic crowns for the patient in one visit! The properties of the material, and the convenience to the patient, are terrific.

What has stayed the same? There is a very close bond built between a dentist and his or her patient. It’s as intimate today as decades ago. Confidence and trust are still the fundamental ingredients of the relationship.

Q.What is the one thing you want every patient and prospective patient to know about you?

A. My hope is that wellness models will enable dentistry to become recognized as an essential component to living a longer and healthier life. While I love spreading the “gospel of dentistry according to Curatola”, my greatest satisfaction is staying close to the practices I’ve worked so hard to grow and build with everyday people who need my expertise. •

Dr. Gerald P. Curatola practices from offices in Manhattan and East Hampton. Schedule a consultation by calling 212-355-4777 / 631-324-6800 or visit http:// www.RejuvDentist.com

GLOWFALL/WINTER ‘10 The M a g a z i n e A b o u t B e a u t y , H e a l t h A n d We l l n e s s

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Entering the final countdown for one of the biggest days in any bride’s life can often bring the kind of stress that can take its toll, not to mention the biggest A-List wedding of the year – the marriage of Chelsea Clinton to Marc Mezvinsky, which has the media swarming like ‘bees to honey’ for any bit of information or glimpse of wedding planning activity. While the reality show, Bridezillas, comes to mind as a caricature of the stress of marital planning, the truth is that the emotional stress for any bride during this period can cause her to binge on junk food, starve herself, not sleep, and reach a point of emotional exhaustion.

This is also the kind of stress that can affect the clarity of skin and diminish the beauty of your smile. A host of dental problems can be avoided with some simple wedding ‘wellness planning.’

So here’s some A-List Smile Smile wellness  Advice for Chelsea and all brides in the wedding countdown:

1.Eliminate the junk and go natural: Besides the junk food temptations that many people have when under emotional stress, you need to eliminate harmful oral care products that have harsh detergents and alcohol (mouthwashes) that disturb the oral environment and can actually cause more stress to your teeth and gums. Most of the commercial care products have an array of harsh detergents and chemicals. Instead, go for the more gentle and natural alternatives for your mouth. I recommend Revitin, which was developed to restore and replenish like a ‘spa treatment’ for your mouth. It’s all natural and has been shown to whiten teeth and freshen breath while staying completely natural.

2. Remember the nutritional A-list: an Alkaline, Anti-inflammatory, and Antioxidant-rich diet: Stress can cause the body to turn acidic. A more raw food diet can counteract that. Rich, leafy green salads with plenty of fresh summer veggies are a great choice. Avoid inflammatory diet triggers that many people have such as wheat, dairy and gluten. These can drag your energy level and immune system down. Stress can also cause the body to burn high amounts of key antioxidants that are necessary for proper cell function and defense. Reactive Oxidative Stress (ROS) causes thousands of damaging free radicals to run amuck in the body. Key antioxidants include vitamins C, E, A, Coenzyme-Q10, and B-complex. I recommend taking Quercitin which also provides alkalizing, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant support.

3. Keep exercising: The frenzy of activity the week before your wedding can cause many brides to ‘blow off’ exercising when in fact regular aerobic activity is just what your body needs to stay healthy. Besides the healthy release of endorphins in the brain, which promote well-being, physical fitness helps to stregthen the immune and circulatory systems, which translates to healthy gums and teeth. Take a morning run, a bike ride or swim each morning. An afternoon workout, will help you sleep better at night.

4. Stay centered: The most effective way to manage the damaging effects from stress – especially the fallout in the mouth such as grinding and clenching your teeth – is to take time to center yourself. Meditation, yoga and prayer all help to calm your mind, relax your body, and relieve emotional and physical stress. In fact, these activities can lower your heart rate and blood pressure and cause you to be more focused. Clenching and grinding teeth can do damage to the tooth structure, as well as the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) which can be painful and debilitating.

While all the cosmetic dentistry, teeth whitening and dental cleaning should have been done prior to this time, by following these four cornerstones of oral health, you and your smile will be dazzling in wedding bliss on the big day!

Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/health/2010/07/26/dr-gerrys-list-advice-chelsea-clintons-wedding-smile/#ixzz1GbYDhkkb

Here is a board of the film in pictures taken by Richard Lewin (May 2nd 2010)

Anti Fungus

CC-Boaworm

The Icelandic volcano that erupted and was responsible for crippling air travel throughout Europe over the past few weeks, is still continuing to wreak havoc on a global scale affecting commerce, welfare and even health with a cost into the billions of dollars. It is hard to believe that all of this “fallout” emanated from one volcano on a small island country just south of the Arctic Circle. Yet, this phenomenal geologic event is also analogous to what could be going on in your body right now. And, there’s a biologic “volcanic eruption” that can occur inside you, that can also wreak havoc on many levels- threatening the welfare of your entire body, and even your life.

The simple explanation of a volcanic eruption is that pressure from magma, molten rock from the earth’s upper mantle or lower crust, and its dissolved gasses rises and increases to a point until an eruption occurs. The “magma” or fire within your body is known as inflammation. A complex biological response, inflammation is an essential process by which our body can protect itself, keeping infections, allergens, toxins, and other stresses under control. In a controlled release, as with the earth’s magma, this is a good thing, as the body regulates and protects itself. The classic signs are pain, swelling, redness, and heat-as with a bad sore throat or infected hangnail. Healing comes and things return to normal.

However, big problems happen when this process is not in balance, and your body is as unprepared for the fallout as millions were from the Icelandic volcano spewing uncontrolled volcanic ash that blanketed most of Western Europe. Under stress, the natural balance of the immune system, which produces just enough inflammation to heal from harmful stimuli, continues on overdrive. The immune system shifts into a chronic state of alarm, with inflammation rising like magma under the earth’s crust. Stress can promote a state of damaging chronic inflammation that can lead to an “eruption,” like heart attack, stroke, or even cancer.

In the mouth, stress can manifest as periodontal (gum) disease, one of the largest sources of this chronic low grade inflammation in the body. It can result in a ten times greater chance of a heart attack or stroke, a seven times greater chance of type 2 diabetes, or seven times greater chance of a premature low weight baby if you are a pregnant woman with gum disease. In a recent study from Harvard University, men with advanced gum disease also had a 67 precent higher incidence of pancreatic cancer. The cost of the “fallout” from these debilitating diseases and illnesses is devastating to our economy with healthcare costs in the trillions of dollars.

Just as there are geologic diagnostic markers that can signal an impending volcanic eruption, there are signals for chronic inflammation in the body that can be a harbinger of the same. These include C-reactive proteins (CRP) levels which are released by the liver under chronic inflammation. An important way to be aware of a problem is to have a blood test to look for these important inflammatory markers. Prevention always remains key and you can start by what you put inyour body. Remember the “A-list” for nutritional support: Alkaline, Antioxidant -rich, and Anti-inflammatory. So, don’t wait for a ‘volcano to erupt’ inside you, because that one just may keep you “grounded”- for life!

Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/health/2010/04/28/volcanic-eruption-inside-groundedfor-life/#ixzz1G2vvdBaT