I find wisdom teeth fascinating. They are a third set of molars we don't need anymore, some people have four while others have none. Why is there such a discrepancy from person to person? Our ancestors needed a third set of molars to aid in chewing, as their diets consisted of tough foods. For example; roots, nuts, leaves, uncooked meat, etc. According to Crest, 85% of people with wisdom teeth will need their wisdom teeth removed in their lifetime. Wisdom teeth are generally removed because there isn't room in modern day mouths to fit all 32 teeth. Other reasons wisdom teeth are removed; they tend to come in crooked and are hard to clean causing decay. But not everybody has wisdom teeth, as we evolve it is becoming more common to be missing at least one wisdom tooth. Approximately 1/3 of the population isn't born with a complete set of wisdom teeth. Certain demographics have an increased chance of not having all four wisdom teeth. 41% of Koreans, 38.4% of Bangladeshis, and … [Read more...]
Do You Have What it Takes?
This summer Dr.Bomstad's daughter has spent time working in the office as a sterilization tech. She has been contemplating a career in dentistry, and this job has allowed her to see all facets of the office. Have you ever wondered what it takes to work in the dental field? To become a licensed dental assistant you must attend dental assisting school. Most programs are 12-18 months long. There are 15 dental assisting schools in Minnesota. A minimum GPA must be maintained and dental clinical observation hours must be completed. Once a student has completed dental assisting school, they have to pass 3 different examinations before being licensed. Onced licensed, a dental assistant may perform patient procedures; like taking x-rays or placing temporary crowns or dental sealants. There are 10 different dental hygiene programs in Minnesota. College classes in English and science are prerequisites for hygiene school, a competive GPA over a 3.0 is needed to get accepted. Some … [Read more...]
Routine Dental Cleanings
Routine dental cleanings are important in maintaining the health of your mouth. There are three key risk factors for gum disease; smoking, diabetes, and genetics. Researchers have examined the link between frequency of teeth cleanings and long term tooth loss. Two dental cleanings a year provide significant benefits to people with one or more of the risk factors, while people with two or three risk factors may require more than two cleanings a year. Our hygienists will review your medical history, perform an oral cancer screening, gum tissue probing, look for signs of gum/periodontal disease, remove plaque and calculus, polish your teeth, and do a thorough examination of your dental health. Best of all, you will leave with your teeth feeling smooth and clean. If you are worried because it has been awhile since your last dental cleaning, our staff pride themselves in making their patients as comfortable as possible. They will take their time with you, explaining steps as they … [Read more...]
Shelley Has Been with Bomstad Dental Since 1990!
Longevity is one of the reasons why Bomstad Dental is such a special place, and Shelley certainly makes the office special. Talk about longevity, she has been at Bomstad Dental since 1990! She started her career assisting Dr. Hatcher and currently assists Dr. Karban. When she's not assisting, you can see Shelley's smiling face at the front desk. Shelley plays an integral role keeping the office running smoothly. Not only is Shelley a true dental professional, but she is our resident travel professional as well! She has traveled extensively throughout Mexico, as well as Dominican Republic and Jamaica. Shelley's favorite location is Jamaica because of the water color and clarity, but her favorite memory came in Ixtapa. In Ixtapa, her husband may have ended up with bidet water in his face-I guess you shouldn't push buttons if you don't know what they do?! Oh, Lawrence! Shelley is currently enjoying Mazatlán with her family. Although we have been spoiled by the weather this … [Read more...]
Crochet Thread Easter Eggs
Crochet Thread Easter Eggs are an adorable craft you can do with your kids this time of year. We made these as a family over 10 years ago! It's hard to believe something so simple could last so long. Here are the supplies you will need: Balloons Crochet Thread 3 cups of granulated sugar 1 cup of water Lace/Ribbon/Decorations Blow up your balloon to the size you desire, wrap the crochet thread around the balloon in all different directions. You will need 1 spool of thread for each balloon. Don't worry about tying down the ends, the sugary mix will hold them in place. This can be difficult to start for little hands, so some assistance may be required. Once you have finished wrapping your balloon, boil the water and sugar. You will want to place your egg on a little bowl/ramekin/cut paper towel roll with a cookie sheet underneath to catch the drippings. When the mixture cools a bit, spoon it onto the thread. Your little ones will love using their … [Read more...]
Gingival Hyperplasia
We have talked about how cool lasers are in a previous post, but here is an example of how really awesome they are. This patient came in with gingival hyperplasia. Gingival hyperplasia is an increase in the number of gum tissue cells resulting in overgrowth. Some patients can experience overgrowth completely covering the entire tooth. The cause of gingival hyperplasia is generally genetic, but metabolic disorders or certain drugs; like immunosuppressants can cause gingival hyperplasia too. For this patient, Dr. Bomstad contoured a new gum line using his dental laser. You can see from the photos how quickly the gums healed with the use of a dental laser. With such gorgeous results, this patient was thrilled with their new smile! If you would like to make an appointment to see Dr. Bomstad or any of his wonderful staff, call 952-938-7746 or click HERE. … [Read more...]
The Hopkins Raspberry Festival, July 11-19
If you are looking for some summer fun, this Friday is the start of the 81st annual Raspberry Festival in Hopkins. Here are just a few of the many activities planned; Sunday July 12th is Senior Royalty Coronation and Dinner, Tuesday the 14th is the Junior Royalty Coronation and Dance, Thursday boasts Music in the Park, Saturday the 18th is Family Day and Sunday July 19th the Grand Day Parade marches down Mainstreet at 1:00. Hopkins certainly will be an exciting place to be! For a complete list of the weeks activities click HERE. We hope to see you around town, have a wonderful week! … [Read more...]