Sunday, October 30, 2016

What Causes Cavities? - Mel Rosenberg


When a team of archeologists recently came across some 15,000-year-old human remains, they made an interesting discovery: the teeth of those ancient humans were riddled with holes. So what causes cavities, and how can we avoid them? Mel Rosenberg takes us inside our teeth to find out.

Lesson by Mel Rosenberg, animation by Andrew Foerster.

Thursday, October 27, 2016

Dr Chao and Dr Goldenberg Show Pinhole Receding Gums Treatment


With Chao Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation™ receding gums are corrected in minutes with no cutting, no sutures and virtually no pain or downtime. Dentist and inventor Dr. John Chao and dentist Dr. Jessica Goldenberg appear in this video from Fox 11 Morning News Santa Barbara to show how quickly and easily gum recession can be treated without conventional gum grafting.

Dr. Burton of Regency Dental Group in Vacaville has been trained in the pinhole technique by Dr. Chao personally. Please call our office for more information and to schedule your appointment! 
707-453-1776

Monday, October 24, 2016

Get A Smile Makeover With Cosmetic Dentistry


Do you know that something as simple as a smile can change a person's day? Experts believe that when another person smiles at another, that person experiences a feel good emotion that can last the whole day. But smiling is a problem for many because of how their teeth look. Thankfully, if you have uneven, broken or stained teeth, it is easier to fix it now with the help of cosmetic dentistry.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dental procedures deal with patients that have stained, chipped, and broken teeth. These procedures include whitening the teeth, repairing broken or chipped areas, reshaping teeth to become aligned with other normal ones and even covering or closing gaps between areas. Unlike orthodontic treatments that use dental devices to straighten, align and correct bites, cosmetic dentistry focuses more on the aesthetic area of dentistry.

Dental Procedures

Bonding is one of the popular dental procedures as it is the easiest and the most inexpensive. Bonding is done for patients with discolored or chipped tooth as well as those with gaps in-between. A resin bonding material is often applied to the area to be repaired wherein the resin is molded to the desired shape and size. Once the desire shape is obtained, laser is used to harden the resin. Polishing is then done to finish and smooth the area to match the surface or row.

Another cosmetic procedure is teeth whitening. Stained teeth are bleached through the use of bleaching strips and even laser. Common bleaching materials include the use of hydrogen peroxide although carbamide peroxide may also be used.

People with damaged teeth may also benefit from crown procedure. The crown is used to cover damaged or fractured tooth. The original tooth is filed to a certain size and once done, a crown usually made of porcelain or other metal alloy is placed over it. The cap is then bonded to ensure that it will stay in place.

For patients that have already lost a tooth or have problems with periodontal disease, they may also opt for dental implant procedures. The implant works by replacing the root of the tooth with a small implant to hold the replacement tooth in place. Aside from aesthetic reasons, dental implants can help improve speech, ease eating as well as improve oral health as other normal teeth are not reduced unlike those of other dental procedures such as dental bridges.

These are just some of the cosmetic dental procedures that patients can ask for. For those who have low self-esteem or want to improve their self-esteem, opting for these procedures is the best. Consult first with your dentist to know the right dental procedure that would best fit your needs.

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Friday, October 21, 2016

Top Five Tips From The Dentist For Diabetics


Among the many health risks of diabetes is a decline in oral health that makes patients more vulnerable to gum disease. According to dental professionals, this happens because diabetes slows the body's circulation, making the gums more susceptible to infection. The metabolic disorder also increases glucose (sugar) levels in saliva, which fuels the growth of dental plaque that attacks the teeth and gums. To protect against the disorder, follow these simple tips.

1. Visit Your Dentist Regularly.

Because diabetics are at a much higher risk of gum disease than the average patient, you should never miss a dental appointment. In fact, you should schedule regular checkups two to four times a year. With professional cleanings and regular examinations, common mouth conditions, such as ulcers, dry mouth, and infections can be controlled. To prevent bouts of low blood sugar, it may be a good idea to eat before you see your dentist. It is also crucial that you inform him or her of any oral problems you may be having -- no matter how minor they may seem.

2. Follow A Strict Oral Hygiene Regimen.

All diabetics should and really must brush and floss daily, preferably after every meal. This will help remove the plaque that can cause gum disease, thereby lowering your risk for mouth ulcers and infections. It is recommended that you complete your oral hygiene routine at least three times a day. Because your risk of oral infection is elevated, it is important to avoid aggressive brushing that can cause cuts and sores. You may even want to use a soft-bristled brush or an electric model for a safer, more comfortable brushing experience.

3. Control Your Blood Sugar.

As we mentioned, sugar stimulates plaque growth, which causes tooth decay and gum disease. Because diabetics have more glucose (sugar) in their blood, they also tend to have a lot more plaque on their teeth. But if you can keep your blood sugar low, you can reduce your risk of periodontal disease.

4. Don't Smoke.

In a perfect world, nobody would smoke -- especially people with diabetes. The unhealthy activity causes a laundry list of serious complications, including oral infections and periodontal diseases. According to dental professionals, smoking can more than double your risk of cavities and infections.

5. Clean Your Dentures.

If you have diabetes and you wear false teeth, you are more prone to developing oral thrush -- a fungal infection of the mouth. Typically caused by denture irritation or wear, thrush can be prevented with regular cleaning. It is also recommended that you remove your dentures in between meals to give any irritated tissue the opportunity to heal. Your dentist might also advise you to limit your sugar intake when your mouth is bothered or raw.

When followed to the letter, these simple tips should help you control diabetes-related dental issues.

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Tuesday, October 18, 2016

The Perils of Sports Drinks for Teeth


Sports and energy drinks are not as healthy as they seem, and they may even be damaging your teeth.

Saturday, October 15, 2016

Gum Recession After Wearing Braces Can Now Be Treated Without Gum Grafti...


Chao Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation™ restores receding gums in minutes through tiny pinholes.

Each year 4 million Americans undergo orthodontic treatment in the U.S. 10% of these patients develop gum recession as a result of wearing braces. This means that about 400,000 orthodontic patients a year must also have their receded gums treated. Traditionally, receding gums have been treated with an unpleasant gum grafting procedure after patients undergo a lengthy period of wearing braces.

Now there is a quicker and easier alternative to traditional gum grafting which can benefit these patients. Chao Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation™ is a minimally invasive technique to reverse gum recession without cutting, stitches or traditional gum grafting surgery. Receding gums are guided down to a healthy position though tiny pinholes made in the gums which disappear virtually overnight.

Dr. Burton of Regency Dental Group in Vacaville has been trained in the pinhole technique by Dr. Chao personally. Please call our office for more information and to schedule your appointment! 
707-453-1776

Wednesday, October 12, 2016

3 Habits to Successfully Care for Your Braces


You've decided to start wearing braces.
Congratulations! You're making a valiant effort towards attaining a winning smile that will serve you well for the rest of your life.
Having a straight, white smile can open all new doors, professionally, personally, even romantically. It can give you a new sense of worth, and make you feel confident beyond your imagination.
But to attain that captivating smile, you need to care for your braces while you're wearing them.
Without proper oral care, your braces can become uncomfortable, and you can extend the length of time you're required to wear them.
Your teeth can also become stained, and you can develop cavities and decay, leading to even worse dental problems down the road.
To keep your braces - and the teeth underneath - sparkling clean, here are three habits to adopt as part of your regular oral care routine.
Keep Those Braces Clean
1. Brush After Every Meal
You probably already brush every morning upon waking and nightly before you go to bed. If not, then you might want to start.
Now that you wear braces, your teeth are more susceptible to plaque buildup and invasion from bacteria than ever before.
When you eat with braces, food can get trapped in the spaces between your braces and the interconnecting wires.
To keep your braces and teeth clean, consider carrying a toothbrush with you everywhere you go - to a friend's house, to work or school, and even when you go out to dinner.
Before you brush, rinse first with water to dislodge any excess food that may have been left behind, then choose a soft-bristle toothbrush and brush gently so that you don't damage any wires or brackets.
Your Orthodontist might also suggest that you rinse with mouthwash and floss at least once per day.
Go easy with the floss. Thread it between the tooth and wire, and work it slowly back and forth between your teeth and braces. Remember, if you floss too hard, you can damage your braces, leading to costly repairs and possibly longer treatment.
To make flossing easier, get an Orthodontic Flosser, which can be purchased at most drug stores. You are also urged to get the kind with wax, which slides between your teeth easier and is unlikely to snag on your brackets.
2. Keep Your Braces Protected
If you play sports or engage in other physical activities, like martial arts, you should consider wearing a mouth guard to avoid damaging the delicate system of brackets and wires. If you wear braces on the top and the bottom, get a mouth guard that protects your entire mouth. For best results, go with a custom-made mouth guard created and provided by your Orthodontist.
3. Avoid Problem Foods
Your Orthodontist most likely gave you a list of the foods you could and could not eat during treatment. Foods like taffy or crunchy apples can get stuck in your braces and, in some cases, the brackets or wires could snap completely.
Other foods to avoid include raw carrots, dried fruits, caramel, nuts, popcorn, and beef jerky. Basically, any food that is too crunchy, sticky, or chewy.
For best results, consider the consistency of each food before you put it in your mouth and try to minimize damage any way possible. For instance, corn on the cob can be eaten, but the kernels should be cut off the cob with a knife before digging in. Apples and carrots can also be cut into much smaller pieces.
Your Orthodontist and Dentist would also prefer that you stay away from too many sugary or starchy foods and soft drinks, which can promote tooth decay and gum disease.
While you're at it, avoid crunching on ice, chewing gum, and biting down on anything out of nervousness, like your pen-tip or fingernail.
With these three tips added to your daily routine, your braces will remain sparkling clean, and your teeth protected until treatment is complete.

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Sunday, October 9, 2016

Thursday, October 6, 2016

What Is Preventative Dentistry And Why Is It Important?


Caring for your teeth is important. Starting good practices now can save you a lot of pain and money in the future. Preventative dentistry aims to protect the health of your teeth in both the short and long term.

What Am I Trying To Prevent?

Preventative dentistry protects you from a number of dental problems, including cavities and tooth decay. Cavities can lead to more serious problems such as abscesses. Other potentially severe issues could include gingivitis and gum disease. Poor dental health has also been linked to ailments such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

How Often Should I Visit My Dentist?

Unless you are dealing with a more serious dental problem, you should visit your dentist once or twice a year. While you're at these regular visits, you should receive both a cleaning and a checkup. If your dentist spots a cavity early, she can usually prevent further damage by placing a filling in the tooth.

What Can I Do At Home?

Preventative dentistry starts in the home. Make sure you practice good dental care every day. If you have children, start teaching them early about the importance of taking care of their teeth. These lessons will last a lifetime.

You should brush at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. If you can, you should also brush about an hour after each meal, which gives your mouth time to restore its natural mineral balance. Don't forget to brush your tongue as well, as this helps remove bacteria from your mouth. And you should remember to replace your toothbrush several times a year. When you notice the bristles starting to fray, throw it out and get a new one.

Finally, you should always floss daily. This will help get food out from between your teeth where regular brushing might not reach. A good way to get kids to do this is by using floss picks, so they don't have to struggle with holding the thread between their small fingers.

Are There Any Foods I Should Avoid?

Foods and drinks that are highly acidic or that contain a lot of sugars may be harmful to your teeth. This can include sodas, sugary juices, fruits, and desserts. If you do choose to have one of these foods, you should try to rinse with mouthwash as soon as possible to remove the acids and sugars from your mouth. However, you shouldn't immediately brush after you eat or drink because your teeth become softer and are therefore more susceptible to damage. Drinking acidic or sugary drinks through a straw can also reduce contact with your teeth and may help prevent acid erosion.

What Else Can I Do?

Maintaining your overall physical health can have a significant impact on the health of your mouth. Drinking plenty of water can help protect your teeth by keeping your body healthy and hydrated. You can also take a multivitamin to make sure your body is getting the nutrients you need to keep your smile strong. You should also avoid smoking cigarettes or excessive alcohol consumption, as these can cause mouth cancer.

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Monday, October 3, 2016

Three Reasons Not to Skip Your General Dentistry Checkup


Most experts recommend that individuals visit a general dentistry practice every six months to ensure optimal oral health, but many people do not follow these guidelines for one reason or another. Some cannot find time in their busy schedules for regular checkups, while others avoid the dentist due to the cost of a visit, and others because they fear dental instruments.

While these concerns are understandable, it is still important to keep up with your appointments. Here are three great reasons for you to make your general dentistry checkups a priority.

A Brighter Smile

A clean mouth is a healthy mouth. But, even with regular brushing and flossing at home, you still might not be able to remove all of the dental plaque that builds up over time. If left on the teeth, these mineralized deposits can eat away at your tooth enamel and cause cavities and gum disease.

A professional cleaning can ensure that plaque does not have the chance to cause any damage. Regular dental visits will also help you keep your breath fresh, since a professional cleaning can remove odor-causing bacteria from hard-to-reach places in your mouth. Additionally, if you are a coffee or tea drinker, your dentist's cleaning tools can remove stains, leaving you with a whiter, brighter smile.

An Ounce of Prevention

Keeping up with your regular checkups will ensure that dental problems, like cavities or gum disease, are caught early when they are much simpler to treat. For example, your dentist may be able to treat a cavity in its early stages with a fluoride treatment but, if the cavity is left to progress, you will likely need a filling, root canal, or even a crown. If the cavity is severely advanced, the tooth may even need to be extracted.

Therefore, it is important to see your dental professional as scheduled in order to keep any problems in check. Additionally, the more complex procedures have a heftier price tag, so keeping up with your checkups doesn't just help you avoid the dentist's drill; it's easier on your wallet, too.

It May Just Save Your Life

Regular checkups are not only important for the health of your mouth, they are essential to your overall health, as well. Problems in the mouth can cause much more than just a toothache-they can be deadly. If a decayed tooth develops a bacterial infection, it can spread throughout the body. More rarely, it can cause Ludwig's Angina, an intense pain and swelling under the tongue and neck, which can be fatal. During your visit, your dental professional can also examine your mouth tissue for signs of disease, such as nutritional deficiencies, stress, eating disorders, and even certain cancers.

Do not let your phobias, your hectic schedule, or your financial concerns prevent you from keeping your general dentistry appointment. Make the commitment to see your dentist regularly to keep your teeth-and your health-in great shape.


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