Whiter teeth for the Holidays

When we finish cosmetic work on a patient, there is something almost all of them say to us. It is almost said in confidence, so as not to hurt others’ feelings. They say something like, “Now that my teeth are so white, I am noticing how dull and dingy other people’s teeth really are.”

It’s a pretty common reaction to suddenly having whiter teeth. As a dentist, I see all kinds of teeth. All are white to some degree (unless they are gold or are full of black filings). Because white teeth come in so many shades, many people do not notice how everyday behaviors slowly darken and dull a smile. The process is slow and before you know it, the color of your teeth is affecting your smile and your overall appearance.

Most people know the usual suspects for this slow deterioration of color: drinking coffee, smoking and the antibiotic, tetracycline. But many people just do not realize how simple and affordable whitening can be. You can choose permanent methods like porcelain veneers that will not stain or you can opt for in-office or take-home whitening that can improve the shade of your teeth in a short amount of time. Some in-office whitening treatments take only about an hour and will last you for years.

Whitening is one of the most common requests we have among patients. If the idea of whitening your smile seems like a good idea, why not call us today at 562.496.3230 to learn more? Or you can click here to read more about your options on my web site.

A couple thoughts about why we do what we do

One of my favorite parts about being a cosmetic dentist is the transformation our patients go through when they have enhanced their smiles. It is one of the amazing results (and rewards) of cosmetic care. We see the new confidence of these patients because they smile! When someone sees an area that they consider a flaw suddenly transformed into a strength, you can see them lower their guard down. All of a sudden, it’s okay for the rest of us see their real personality come out.

Here is an interesting observation about confidence. Have you noticed people who seem so natural expressing themselves? It’s likely they are relaxed and comfortable with how they appear. That quality translates into confidence. This is one of the main reasons people seek out cosmetic dentists to enhance their smiles. We get a lot of patients who just want to let their “Real Me” out for everyone to see but won’t because they are unhappy with their smile. I think this is why we see so many dramatic changes in
personality and confidence with cosmetic dentistry. It really is gratifying.

Maybe you are thinking about cosmetic dentistry for this reason. If you
are, email me here and we can set up a consultation to discuss the
possibilities for you.

Dental Care During Pregnancy

During pregnancy your gums and teeth are more likely to change due to increased blood flow throughout your body that can cause swelling, sensitivity and tenderness in your gums. It is common while pregnant to have some bleeding of the gums, especially while brushing and flossing.

Pregnancy gingivitis is the most common dental concern during pregnancy, pregnant women are at a greater risk. This is because amplified levels of progesterone and estrogen lead to increased blood flow throughout the body, especially to the gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontal disease which can put a pregnant woman at risk.

What Your Dentist Knows About Your Health

From predicting heart disease, diabetes, and premature birth to revealing leukemia, eating disorders, and vitamin deficiencies, your teeth and gums say a mouthful about your health.

A great check list for patients looking for a cosmetic dentist

http://www.aboutcosmeticdentistry.com/resources/checklist/acdchecklist.pdf

Patient Testimonials

"From the bottom of my heart, I wanted to say thank you for the beautiful smile you gave me." -Christine

"I am so satisfied with my teeth. They look amazing." -Maria Adame

"It's a joy to walk in your office. You saved me." -Mary McCarthy

"I used to wonder how the celebrities could obtain such a perfect smile. After one consult with Dr. Rose I was enlightened. I now realized you don't have to be a movie star to have a beautiful smile." -Martha Ulloa

"A visit to the dentist has always been a traumatic experience for me, until I met with Dr. John Rose for a consultation. I was reassured by him and his staff that they would make it pleasent. All my experiences under his care have been very comfortable and filled with joy. I have gained a better smile as well as friends who will always have a special place in my heart." Eva Marie Abadilla-Tan

Extreme Makeover was on ABC again last month.

In case you have never seen it, Extreme Makeover was a huge hit a few years ago and there are still a lot of makeover shows on television. Before that, a makeover used to mean a new hairstyle and new make-up. The makeover shows have really shown that improving one’s appearance can be done in many ways including smile makeovers.

Since Extreme Makeover first aired, I’ve noticed a big increase in the number of casual conversations I have with people about making over their smile. I think the makeover shows made people realize that there were certain imperfections that they could have fixed. And, cosmetic dentistry does not have the negative stigmas like you have with plastic surgery.

If fact, makeover shows demonstrate how fast and easy cosmetic dental work can be. I am not sure how accurate those shows make the recovery times seem for surgery; but I do know with cosmetic dentistry, we can complete a smile makeover in two visits. That is accurately portrayed on makeover shows.

I invite you to click through my web site to see my smile makeovers… some of which might be considered “extreme.” And, if you want to talk about a smile makeover for yourself or refer a friend who has been thinking of getting one, please call or email me.

Overcome Your Fear of the Dentist with Oral Sedation Dentistry

Source: Fitness News Onlypunjab.com

Are you afraid to see a dentist? Or, has a member of your family expressed anxiety and an unwillingness to see a dentist? While some people seem to be able to go in for the latest in cosmetic dentistry or teeth whitening techniques, others cannot seem to get themselves to the dentist for a routine check up. Dental anxiety is a very common condition affecting millions of people. People may fear the pain, or the drills and other equipment associated with dentistry. They may also have memories of unpleasant dental experiences from their childhood.Many people with dental anxiety put off proper dental care for years. However, unsightly, broken or missing teeth can have a negative impact on your self-esteem, social life, career and health. Gum disease and tooth decay will not go away if ignored. Ignoring these conditions can lead to needing to have teeth removed and other serious, expensive dental procedures. In addition, unhealthy teeth and gums have been associated with heart disease.

One option available to help people overcome their fear of dentists is oral sedation dentistry. With this method, the dentist prescribes a pill or liquid to be taken by mouth, usually one hour before the procedure. The medication makes you drowsey and very relaxed. It also has somewhat of an amnesic effect. However, you are not unconscious and can converse with the dentist and dental technician throughout your procedure. Depending on your dentist’s plan, you may be able to have years of problems corrected in a short period of time due to the fact that you are sedated. After your dental appointment you should not drive, so someone needs to be available to drive you home.The advantages of oral sedation over unconscious sedation are that it is much less expensive and easier on the body than having to undergo intraveneous sedation methods. Most people have no problems taking the medication.

Digital X-Rays

If you’re concerned about radiation during dental x-rays we have some good news!

Dental x-rays have become safer, better, and faster with Computerised Digital Radiography (CDR).

Digital x-ray require 90% less radiation than conventional film based x-rays.

The CDR image can be magnified 300x its normal size to enhance diagnosis, manipulate to correct contrast, and color-adjusted to reveal hidden problems.

Digital x-ray images are instantaneous. No time is wasted processing and mounting x-ray film. So the dental staff spends less time in the dark room and more time with you, discussing the health of your teeth.

Oral Sedation Is The Wave of The Future

• Oral Sedation is a safe and effective way of relieving the fear and anxiety associated with going to the dentist. Dentists have used oral medications for many years to relieve fear and apprehension associated with dental appointments
• It works well for most patients allowing them to relax and have little or no memory of their dental appointments (partial or total amnesia)
• Its easy, you take a pill one hour prior to your dental appointment
• Some patients are so relaxed that they sleep right through their dental appointment. When someone is relaxed they will feel less tired after a long dental appointment.
• Patients are so relaxed and comfortable, that a large amount of complex treatment can be accomplished in a single appointment
• People who have trouble getting numb are often helped by Oral Sedation Dentistry
• If you are scared of needles, sedation dentistry can help you
• People who have difficulty controlling movements, such as Parkinson’s Disease or Cerebral Palsy are often helped by oral sedation
• The dentist can complete more dental treatment of higher quality, in a shorter period of time, on a patient who is relaxed

Does cleaning teeth reduce risk of heart disease?

To Help Maintain Good Physical Health

Recent studies have linked heart attacks and strokes to gum disease, resulting from poor oral hygiene. A dental cleaning every 3-4 months for adults helps to keep your teeth and gums healthy and could possibly reduce your risk of heart disease and strokes.