Aesthetic Dentistry of La Jolla

Sugar and Summer Foods

2011-08-11T09:32:00.001-07:00

Watermelon, apple pies, lemonade, soft drinks and rich foods. They are all part of a normal summer for most. So, how has your summer diet been? Most of us have been enjoying the summer with family and friend, vacations and special times with the young ones, which can mean a lot of sweet and rich foods. There is nothing wrong with indulging in fun foods now and then. And, when you do so, you should take a little extra care of your teeth and gums.

Extra soft drinks and sweet treats means more sugar. And, if you do not brush following eating or drinking high sugar and high carbohydrate foods, you are inviting trouble. Brushing cleans away any remaining sugars left deposited on your teeth. And flossing daily keeps these remnants from building up between your teeth. Bacteria in your mouth will consume these sugars, creating an acid that can weaken and erode your teeth.

So, what easy rules should you follow? Brush following every meal and snack. Floss daily as well. And, watch out for some foods and treats that can fly under the radar. Mints such as tic-tacs and fruits are often refreshing for your palate and they taste good but both are high in sugars and can undermine your dental health plan.

So, have fun the rest of the summer and keep brushing.

What do you see in Facebook conversations?

2011-06-22T13:38:00.001-07:00

Remember, one power of social networking is to help people by sharing your knowledge, experience and advice. On Facebook and on Twitter, it is not unusual for some one to complain or ask questions about a symptom. For instance, recently a friend told me about how one of his Facebook friends went in for an inconclusive MRI because of persistent headaches. The friend’s doctor has suggested it as a diagnostic measure because the headaches had been unexplainable.

My friend posted on their wall the question: “Do you also have jaw pain or grinding teeth at night?” My friend was wondering if the cause of her headaches may have been neuromuscular, a TMJ joint disorder. They knew about it from knowing a neuromuscular dentist… me.

This is why I think it is important to reach out to everyone I know and remind them of some important points. They are:

1) TMJ is hard to diagnose, especially for general practitioners. It is easy to prescribe pain pills for pain with diagnosis or order expensive testing which, as in this case, was inconclusive.

2) TMJ is a jaw joint disorder and pain is common in that area, but symptoms can range from migraine headaches, to shoulder pain, to back pain and more. If a head, neck or upper back pain cannot be identified, it very well might be linked to TMJ.

3) Neuromuscular dentists treat TMJ non-invasively.

4) Ask a friend who is showing symptoms to consider a visit me for an TMJ consultation. Worst case, we rule it out!

So, I encourage you to listen to what your friends are saying on social media and know the symptoms of TMJ. If you see someone suffering and frustrated because their doctors can’t figure it out or they are struggling with unnecessary pain medications, please refer them to me. At the very least, we can rule out TMJ for them.

TMJ and Inflammation

2011-04-12T13:14:00.001-07:00

This time of year, a lot of people suffer from allergies. With all the pollen of spring in the air, there are a lot of irritated sinuses and general inflammation. This is seasonal and often controlled with over the counter medication. However, if this sort of discomfort in the head and neck area is only made worse by the allergy season, it may be time to be evaluated for TMJ.

TMJ or tempromandibular joint disorder manifests itself with both pain and irritation in and around the head and neck. The jaw joint is not properly aligned causing inflammation in the surrounding connective tissues. This can lead to all kinds of irritation beyond the standard jaw pain and jaw clicking and popping. TMJ can cause ringing in the ears, waxy build up in the ears and general inflammation and discomfort in the face and neck area.

I am trained in the diagnosis and treatment of TMJ and I make a point of mentioning it frequently because many people tend to just live with TMJ pain or simply get pain medications diagnosed to deal with the discomfort and pain. If you have any persistent head, neck or jaw pain, including migraine headaches, please contact me today to be checked out for TMJ.

Thinking about cosmetic dentistry

2011-03-02T08:36:00.001-08:00

There is something about this time of year that makes people get motivated. Spring cleaning is a few weeks away but the motivators seem to start now. The holidays are behind up and the summer is only a few months away. And, a lot of people are either waiting on their tax refund or know what the damage is there, so the pressure is off. In general, as we swing into March, it‘s a time when people start thinking about doing what’s next.

If you have considered cosmetic dentistry in the past, you might be thinking about it now. There are many great reasons to improve your smile. Sure, you can look at it from the viewpoint that a perfect smile can help with your career or give you an added edge socially. Or you can look at cosmetic dentistry as a way of giving yourself something long lasting, like the confidence to express your true self.

A lot of people have healthy teeth but they just do not like how they look. These people tend to shy away from smiling or being too expressive. And, it’s a shame when we don’t get to see their full personality because of this inhibition.

Cosmetic dentistry changes all that. The most common comment we hear following cosmetic dentistry is that the patient feels a new sense of confidence. They feel like they are free to smile because they know their teeth and smile are beautiful. And, when that happens, they let their whole personality out.

If you have ever felt this way, why not contact me today to discuss what cosmetic dentistry can do for you?

Watch your mouth! For health warning signs that is.

2011-01-04T22:05:00.001-08:00

As we head into the New Year, here is a list of general health-related conditions that show warning signs in your mouth. Sure you want to keep your dental health strong and many people know that gum disease is connected with heart disease. I encourage you to have more awareness of your dental health in the new year and that includes these warning signs.

Flat, worn teeth and headaches are signs of stress and TMJ. People often grind their teeth in their sleep when they are experiencing stress. This stress level, left unchecked, can lead to other physical and emotional issues. And, TMJ… you’ve seen plenty about TMJ treatment on my blog. If you have worn teeth and bruxism, please see me for a TMJ evaluation.

Cracking teeth is a warning sign for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Stomach acid is a major factor in tooth erosion. Of course not brushing away sugars will cause your tooth enamel to erode, too. But if you take good care of your mouth with brushing and flossing and you still have tooth erosion, you may want to look for treatment for GERD.

A mouth sore that don’t heal is a sign of oral cancer. An oral cancer screening is part of your regular checkup and it is a good reason to keep your appointments for cleanings and check ups.

Gums that grow over teeth are a sign of issues with prescription medication. Your medication for seizures, heart disease or autoimmune diseases could be causing this reaction if the medication is not adjusted properly.

And, a dry mouth is a sign of diabetes. There are many early warning signs of diabetes and one small tip that you might need to see a doctor for a diabetes screening is a persistent lack of saliva.

Watch for these warning signs as you manage the home care of your dental health. Please see me regularly for check ups this year as well, so we can make sure your dental health is at its peak.

If you have an FSA

2010-11-01T09:52:00.000-07:00

If you who have a Flexible Spending Account for your health insurance and are running out of time to spend your annual healthcare budget, here is something to consider. Why not replace those old black fillings now?

You are being presented with an opportunity to take care of an unhealthy condition many people simply ignore. Black or silver fillings are called amalagam fillings and contain metals that are toxic to the body. Over time, mercury from those fillings can leech into your system. This is one of the reasons why it is so important to replace amalgam fillings with white resin fillings.

White fillings do not contain harmful chemicals and offer long-term, strong fillings and support for a tooth. In addition, they white resin fillings blend in with your teeth so you do not have the look of dark fillings. Both aesthetically and from a health and wellness point off view, white fillings are superior.

So, if you have a balance you must use in your FSA, please contact us today about getting those amalgam fillings replaced by the end of the year.

Healthy Gums

2010-09-30T10:58:00.000-07:00

Home care is important to maintaining healthy gums. You know the routine, brush following meals, regular flossing and proper brushing technique to stimulate the gums. That is what you can do, but regular cleanings from a dentist are important, too.

Deep cleanings like we provide remove the placque buildup in the hard to reach places that fall short in home care. And, since everyone is different, there are a multitude of places you might be missing even though you do an excellent job with home care.

I like to remind you to come in for a cleaning periodically because gum disease can be very harmful to your gums and teeth. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is entirely preventable but can cause major damage way beyond bleeding gums. And, gum disease has a proven link to heart disease. Managing your dental health and overall wellness includes healthy gums.

So, please call us to schedule a cleaning to make sure that your prevention of gum disease is complete beyond your home care.

We offer an excellent experience

2010-08-17T12:23:00.001-07:00

They say presentation is everything. I take great care to offer a highly personalized experience to my patients. It’s a style of care that I know separates my practice from other dentists and it is part of the culture that goes along with practicing advanced dental procedures.

So, let’s talk about your friends and family. Do they receive the same experience or even this level of care? So many people just do not shop around dental services because they do not realize that you can get great dental services with greater value. I wonder what your friends’ reactions would be if you asked them how is their experience when they go to the dentist.

The dental and medical experience can seem very mechanical and impersonal. The practices aren’t trying to be that way, it is just how they manage their business. Dentists with advanced training in both procedures and practice management know that this way is old school and people do not like it. Patients have a choice and we want them to choose us because when you are in our care, we take care of you and treat you personally in a warm and comfortable environment. We don’t just shuttle you around where you need to go, perform your treatment and send you packing to get on with your day. That doesn‘t get people talking about how well you are treated.

And, that is what I am asking you try this month. Ask around. Ask your friends what kind of experience they have at their dentist. Then tell them about how we treat you when you come in for a visit. In many cases, you might be opening their eyes to a better way to receive their dental treatments. We are accepting new patients and I hope you can refer some friends who want a better experience.

A little something for you?

2010-07-07T09:39:00.000-07:00

When was the last time you did a little something for yourself? Since it’s summer, the kids are out of school and things are more generally relaxed, now might be a good time to consider doing a little something extra for yourself.

As a dentist, we have many conversations with patients each year about making cosmetic improvements to their smiles. Some are interested in whitening and some are interested in making major changes. It is in these conversations that patients often reveal their dreams for a more beautiful smile with a mouth full of perfect and white teeth.

It’s more common than you think. That is one of the reasons why I got into cosmetic dentistry. It is such an amazing and immediate way to help people positively change their lives. When I do a cosmetic reconstruction, or what most people consider cosmetic dentistry, I’ve seen the new porcelain veneers transform someone immediately. The first step in a reconstruction involves placing temporary crowns that resemble what the finished porcelain veneers will look like. This is the point when a patient first sees what their new smile will look like and that is always a highly emotional moment. It is this sort of life-changing transformation that makes cosmetic dentistry a popular wish.

Is cosmetic dentistry anything you ever considered for yourself? Of if you have had the experience of cosmetic dentistry already, do you know anyone who wishes they had that new beautiful smile? If so, please talk to me about it. I look forward to answering your questions.

Don’t ignore TMJ symptoms

2010-05-19T19:50:00.000-07:00

Allergies are very common right now, so a lot of people are dealing with headaches, congestion and general discomfort in their head. And, this time of year, a lot of headaches and inflammation get excused as allergies. When the fact is, there is always a reason for that headache.

Chronic headaches are symptom of TMJ and the scenario I described above is one of the reason people go to the doctor for medications rather than visiting a neuromuscular dentist for a TMJ exam.

TMJ is a very difficult disorder to diagnose because the symptoms can appear in so many ways and can be confused for so many other conditions. For a persistent headache, people see their general practitioner or eye doctors. For localized pain in the shoulders, neck or back, people might see their general practitioner or get referred to a specialist. When they cannot find the source of the pain, usually the prescription is pain killers or something to try to reduce inflammation. Neither are a proper treatment or cure for TMJ.

We want all of our clients to understand that pains in the head, neck, jaw, upper back and arms are all symptomatic of TMJ. If you or someone you know has these symptoms, seeing a doctor will not help the way seeing a neuromuscular dentist will help. With my training in neuromuscular dentistry, I can treat your TMJ condition without surgery.

Please let me know if I can help you or someone you know. One neuromuscular exam can make a life changing difference for someone with TMJ pain.

Spring Cleaning

2010-03-30T08:43:00.001-07:00

We are all familiar with Spring Cleaning. It’s a great way to get yourself organized and back on track. Out with the old; in with the new. Time to straighten up for the rest of the year and get things looking good again.

While you are in the mood for Spring Cleaning, why not consider your dental health schedule for the year. Regardless of how you pay for your dental health care, an annual schedule for basic care for you and your family should be the basis of your annual plan. As part of getting organized this spring, I suggest you make your schedule for cleanings and exams.

Regular cleanings are the best way to ensure that placque build up does not damage your teeth or gums. Your daily brushing routine gives you a good basis for a healthy mouth, but professional cleanings give you a deep cleaning necessary to avoid gum disease and weakened teeth enamel. You may be surprised at the new technologies available to achieve this purpose.

Your annual exam is important for a variety of health reasons. One of the most important reasons for regularly scheduled exams is to have a proper oral cancer screening. This painless screening for the first signs of oral cancer is just as important as any skin cancer screening you would get at your primary care physician or dermatologist.

So, as part of your Spring Cleaning and organization, why not plan out cleanings and exams for youself and your family members? It’s a great way to prioritize your dental health. If you have any questions about any of this, especially oral cancer screening, please feel free to contact me today.

Interesting trend in sports

2010-03-03T14:17:00.000-08:00

In my blog, I frequently talk about TMJ pain and the Tempromandibular Joint Disorder. Normally, the discussion of TMJ or jaw alignment centers around the wide range of pains and discomforts caused when the jaw is not aligned. But, recently, anyone who has been paying attention to sports has seen the positive effects of aligning the jaw.

Many key players from the Super Bowl champion New Orleans Saints football team used a special mouthpiece designed with neuromuscular principles that aligns the jaw. Users of this appliance note a improvement in strength, speed, balance and agility. In the Olympics, US skier Bode Miller also used this sort of mouthpiece in his Gold medal winning performance in the Vancouver Olympics. Recent events have made this newsworthy but for the past several years, athletes seeking improved performance in their training and competition have utilized this simple yet effective technology.

Neuromuscular sceince and the recent sports success enjoyed by some of its users is a real lesson about neuromuscular dentistry. The alignment of the jaw clearly is critical to peak performance. If your jaw is out of alignment to the point where it is causing pain and symptoms of discomfort, you can imagine how much your potential is decreased just doing day to day tasks. If you or someone you know is suffering head pain, migraines, neck or jaw pain, please contact me today. This is a condition that can be treated with non-invasive techniques and you can see what you might consider a championship-level improvement.

Living with TMJ?

2010-02-02T20:59:00.000-08:00

Do you know someone who is making excuses about living with TMJ pain? It happens all the time. Whether it is the popping and clicking jaw, the soreness caused by grinding teeth during sleep, headaches or other pain in the head and neck area, for some reason people tend to avoid dealing with TMJ pain. Often times they take pain relievers or prescription medicines to mask the pain. Medication it is not a cure, however, and things do tend to get worse if not treated.

One of the main reasons people tend to put off treatment is that they think major surgery is needed to repair the problem. They may have read this in their research or have even been told that by a doctor. If they are thorough in their research, they will also discover a non-invasive “neuromuscular” approach to treatment, which is much more conservative and does not require surgery.

My neuromuscular training comes from the world’s leading post-graduate institute on the subject: The Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. Not only did I study there but I also teach these very same concepts to dentists from all over the world. Every day, TMJ suffers are treated successfully and conservatively using neuromuscular concepts. This specialized treatment resets the position of the jaw without surgery, and normalizes all the interconnected tissues, reducing or eliminating most of the pain and discomfort.

Many people suffer from, or know someone who suffers from TMJ pain. Surgery is not the only option and there is no reason to simply live with the pain. Sometimes simply mentioning the non-invasive neuromuscular option is all that is needed to make a difference.

New Year’s Dental Resolution

2010-01-05T14:13:00.000-08:00

Here's a great idea for the new year put a little extra emphasis on your health care in 2010. Isn't it time to do some of the little things that can lead to better health. Ok... Good idea. So how about starting with a new years dental resolution?

It is so easy to affect a more positive dental health. Most of the steps can be routine. We all know brushing after every meal and flossing daily are everyday tasks you should be doing. However, rushing through brushing and skipping flossing can undo your efforts. Done properly and regularly, brushing and flossing keep your mouth clean but also stimulate the gums. Unhealthy gums are medically connected to heart disease, which is something most people do not realize. So, being more diligent with brushing and flossing can have a huge impact on your health. So, maybe add that to your new years dental resolution.

Regular visits to see me for cleanings will also help nip emerging problems in the bud. In deep cleanings, we make sure that the plaque that causes tooth decay and gum disease is completely removed. I strongly suggest making your cleaning appointments a priority in the coming year.

And, for anyone suffering from symptoms of TMJ, maybe this will be the year when you have had it living with the pain and the headaches. If you are ready to start the year headed toward a pain-free 2010, why not schedule an appointment for a neuromuscular exam. I am trained to treat TMJ pain with non-invasive techniques that change lives. Treating TMj can do much for your mental health as well if the burden of the pain is affecting your functioning or your moods.

And, one last idea for your new years dental resolution. If you or someone you know snores, why not treat the sleep apnea that causes the snoring? Sleep apnea can be life threatening and it clearly affects how you function. Again, non-invasive neuromuscular treatments I offer can treat sleep apnea and improve your overall health.

So, what sounds good for your new years dental resolution? Email me and let me know.

Looking your best for the holidays

2009-12-03T19:14:00.000-08:00

As the holidays approach, holiday pictures, parties and social events come up on most of our schedules. It’s a time for your holiday dress, your new haircut or hairstyle and for a beautiful smile.

Keep in mind that you can give your smile an immediate boost with teeth whitening, which is the easiest way to quickly improve the cosmetic appearance of your smile. If you want that little extra boost for your smile and your family photo or holiday party is right around the corner, we can brighten your smile in just one day. In fact, we can do it on your lunch hour.

If you are interested in a more dramatic and permanent improvement, why not take a little time during this holiday season to learn about cosmetic reconstruction. I have the finest education and experience with cosmetic reconstruction. Maybe you want to consider this as a gift for a loved one or maybe this is something you have always dreamed of for yourself. Either way, why not start asking some questions now. A new, beautiful, confident smile may be an important part of 2010 for you.

If you have been thinking about improving your smile, please contact me today.

Little things you can do

2009-11-10T12:55:00.000-08:00

Something as regular as a dental cleaning can impact your health dramatically. It is so important, I am doubling my efforts to encourage everyone to do this important maintenance for their teeth and gums twice each year.

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, has links to heart disease, strokes, diabetes and more serious health issues. If you do not clean your teeth properly, you are inviting all the immediate symptoms of gum disease and increasing the risk of other health issues. Warning signs include bleeding gums, red gums and bad breath. Here are some additional facts about your risk of gum disease.

- Receding gums are a symptom of gum disease. If you have noticed your gums receding making your teeth appear longer, this is a warning sign.
- Tobacco use is a risk factor for gum disease.
- The older you are, the greater your risk.

The best thing you can do is to schedule your cleanings with me twice each year. Come in and have this nearly painless treatment completed so we can stay on top of your health.
We are also accepting new patients, so please encourage your friends to begin joining this renewed effort I am making against periodontal disease with my patients

Do you snore?

2009-10-07T12:08:00.001-07:00

Do you snore? If you do, this is an important blog for you.

We all know snoring as a major irritant in that it causes complaints from others. Your spouse, family members, house guests, maybe even your neighbors all might have complained from time to time if you are a habitual snore. And, while it might be offensive to them, it might be dangerous for you.

Sleep apnea is a serious condition that affect breathing while you sleep. Habitual snoring is a classic symptom of sleep apnea. Snoring is not sleep apnea and it seems many people have that fact confused. However, it is a sign of sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a disruption of your breathing when you are asleep. This is both dangerous to your health but it can affect your waking hours because your sleep is not restful.

The stoppage in breathing during sleep can cause oxygen deprivation. This can affect your overall health in the forms of heart disease, depression, high blood pressure, memory problems and more conditions related to oxygen deprivation. This is not to mention the irritability caused by restless sleep and how it can affect your behavior.

With my training in neuromuscular dentistry, I can treat snoring and sleep apnea. A good place to start with self-assessment is snoring. If you are a regular snorer, you have a primary symptom of sleep apnea. If this is the case, why not contact me for a consultation to determine if you have sleep apnea? It is a good idea for your overall health and welfare.

Migraines and TMJ

2009-09-09T20:26:00.001-07:00

If you suffer from migraines headaches, you know it is an intense head pain that can last for hours or days. For some, it can be totally debilitating. If you have frequent headaches and the best your doctor can do is prescribe pain medication for your migraines, you should look into what neuromuscular dentistry can do for your headaches. The alternative might be migraines for the rest of your life and the need for dulling medications to live with them.

Migraine headaches are a common symptom of TMJ. This is a misalignment of the jaw that can cause numerous pains and discomforts in the head and neck. Most people think of TMJ (tempromandibular joint disorder) as only a cause of jaw pain. However, migraine headaches are a very common symptom and, because of their severity, they are a major cause for people to seek out more advanced treatments. Informed family doctors will also recognize persistent migraines as a symptom of TMJ and make a referral to a neuromuscular dentist.

My training at The Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies qualifies me as one of this area’s top professionals treating TMJ. The neuromuscular approach to treating TMJ is non-invasive. Through the use of measuring technologies, I am able to determine the proper alignment of your jaw to relieve the stress on the jaw joint. In turn, this eliminates all the issues that misalignment is causing on all the connected tissues. The neuroumuscular approach is an effective and non-invasive way to treat TMJ and restore normal function to the jaw joint.

Along with normal function comes relief from TMJ symptoms including migraines. If you suffer from migraine headaches, why not ask me about how TMJ treatment works?

What is Bruxism?

2009-08-04T14:10:00.001-07:00

Many people are not aware that they have a condition called Bruxism. But, if you wake up in the morning with a sore jaw or a headache, you may be grinding your teeth at night and that is bruxism.

This can be caused by short-term stress but it can also be part of a chronic, bigger picture issue such as TMJ. In high stress situation, we tend to bear down and grind our teeth. Most people do not realize when they do this during the day and they certainly don’t realize it when they are sleeping. The tension in the muscles from the grinding is what causes inflammation and pain.

If your bruxism is due to stress, stress relief techniques ranging from exercise to counseling to muscle relaxants might be the answer. But in the case of chronic bruxism, treatment for TMJ may be the relief you need. Treatments can range from custom fit nightguards to full treatment for TMJ is the bruxism is a symptom of the TMJ. It is important to treat bruxism to avoid putting undue stress on the teeth, which can lead to receding gums or damage to the tooth.

If you are grinding your teeth at night, causing stiffness in your neck and jaw or headaches, please contact me today about treatment for your bruxism.

Thinking of whitening your teeth?

2009-06-30T10:33:00.001-07:00

There are lots of reasons why teeth whitening is a topic this time of year. Summer is a time for weddings, family reunions, travel and outdoor fun. Generally it is a time when a lot of photos are taken and people want to look their best. That often means teeth whitening.

Whitening is a very common treatment that can be done a number of different ways. It is often the first step someone takes when it comes to cosmetic dentistry and it is also one of the easiest and quickest treatments you can have to improve your smile. That is why teeth whitening is so popular.

When it comes to teeth whitening, you can get over the counter products at your local grocery store or drug store. These over the counter products can be effective but lack the strength of the treatments you can get from a dentist. And, in this case, strength of the chemicals equates to the amount of product and time you need to achieve a result. And, in the end, it makes a difference in what kind of result you will see. Most people who are serious about whitening their teeth wind up at the dentist asking for options even after they have tried the over the counter products.

Most dentists have a take-home whitening kit that you can purchase. Generally, it is more effective than the over the counter products. However, when someone comes to me for whitening, it is usually all about laser whitening. This is the one-hour whitening process we offer where we apply a special chemical to your teeth. That chemical reacts to a light source we place in your mouth and the results are whiter teeth. This is known as chairside whitening or laser whitening.

If you would like more information on whitening your teeth for an upcoming occasion, please contact me.

Join our social network

2009-06-03T13:34:00.001-07:00

Over the summer, we will be starting a Facebook page for our practice. If you haven’t tried social networking online, you should give it a try. It a great way to stay connected with people and share information with each other.

I will post it in my blog when we are ready for you to search us out and become our friend on facebook. Until then, you may want to try out Facebook. If you are unfamiliar with it, it is a free service with a lot of important privacy options. Users will tell you that it is a good way to keep up with what is going on with friends.

This is why we are making a Facebook page for my practice. As you, know, my practice is not your average dental practice. We make all kinds of efforts to ensure your comfort and to keep you posted on the important advancements in dentistry that can be of benefit to you and your family. Our Facebook page will allow us to do that even better, so we want to encourage anyone who is not on it to join up. We’ll be out there looking for you to become a Facebook friend really soon.

Headaches and TMJ

2009-05-06T10:14:00.001-07:00

Most people would not consider going to the dentist for a headache but, for a lot of people, it can save you a lot of time and trouble. If you have chronic migraines, it could be caused by your bite.

I have a special post-graduate training in treating TMJ, a jaw joint disorder that causes all kinds of chronic pains, including headaches. In a nutshell, if your bite does not site properly, the jaw joint and connective tissues become irritated causing pain the jaw, head, neck and more.

Most people just go to their family physician when they have a persistent headache. Almost always, a family doctor will prescribe pain medication because the cause of the headache is usually apparent. I do my best to let area doctors know that they should refer patients with chronic, undiagnosed head, neck or jaw pain to me for a TMJ exam. Our TMJ exams are not invasive and the treatments are non-invasive as our goals are to realign the bite to alleviate the irritation in the jaw joint and surrounding tissues.

Treating TMJ when it is the cause of chronic head, neck and jaw pain is more preferable than relying on painkillers to numb back pain. It is healthier and almost all my TMJ patients tell me they feel like they have their life back now that the pain is gone. If you or someone you know suffers from chronic head, neck and jaw pain, please contact us for help.

Time for some Spring Cleaning

2009-04-02T19:14:00.000-07:00

It’s spring and people are getting organized for the warm weather ahead. One of the things you want to complete on your To Do list is to schedule your annual exam and cleanings. Making appointments now will help you prioritize this important task and get it on the schedule!

Annual exams are so important to avoid costly long-term dental issues. One of the things we do in an annual exam is an oral cancer screening. This is a short, painless, almost unnoticeable procedure but it is vital in early detection of oral cancer. It is one of the primary reasons you should be regular with your annual exams.

Thorough cleanings will give you the best chance to avoid long-term problems like gum disease. This is important to do a few times each year in addition to regular brushing and flossing. Gum disease can also lead to other system-wide physical problems including heart disease and strokes. So, if you are eating a healthy diet and living a healthy lifestyle to avoid health problems, you should realize that dental health is part of that picture.

So, why not get a leg up on your scheduling plans for the spring? Contact us today to schedule your appointment.

Avoiding Tooth Erosion.

2009-03-03T12:36:00.001-08:00

Yes, you should be maintaining a regular cleaning and check-up schedule for your dental health and the dental health of your family. We are always happy to see you when it is time for a cleaning or check up. However, sometimes it is important to review the things you can be doing at home to maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Everything you eat has some affect on your teeth and it is important to make sure you maintain healthy teeth by avoiding what is commonly known as tooth erosion. This can lead to cracked teeth, discoloration, sensitivity and more. Basically tooth erosion is just like it sounds, where the teeth are work away by the acids in what you eat.

Keeping this in mind makes it easy to avoid contributing to the problem. When you eat acidic foods or drinks, simply rinse out your mouth with water to neutralize the remaining acid in your mouth. This simple step is probably the most effective easy thing you can do to avoid tooth erosion. Of course cutting back on carbonated drinks and acidic foods helps, too. When you do eat or drink something that is high in acid, swallow it quickly to avoid it remaining in your mouth a long time.

Brushing is important in avoiding tooth erosion, too. Using a soft toothbrush reduces the friction on teeth that can contribute to erosion and waiting at least an hour to brush following acidic foods helps as well. This gives teeth the chance to remineralize after being exposed to the acids you just ate or drank.

Remembering these simple tips will contribute to your dental health by helping you avoid tooth erosion. If you have any other questions regarding your dental care, please contact me any time. I look forward to seeing you on your next appointment.

New Year. New Smiles.

2009-02-02T09:23:00.001-08:00

It is a new year and a good time to talk about new advantages for a new year. And, the biggest advantage is a bright, beautiful smile.

As a cosmetic dentist, I see the changes all the time when people get a beautiful, new smile. Both men and women choose to improve their smiles for many reasons. Some reasons are personal and some reasons are for business. The bottom line in all cases is that the patient wants to make an improvement in their appearance. They want permanent improvements, not just a short-term fix to make you look a little younger. With smiles, permanent improvements mean long-lasting improvements that work at any age. This is because, with a new smile, the real benefit is that your personality comes shining through so much more brightly.

This is a huge advantage socially and in business. However, most people get new smiles because they simply want to make an improvement in their appearance. My advanced training in designing new smiles with porcelain veneers allows me to help so many people reach these goals. It is no wonder I see so many people smiling all the time!

Happy New Year

2008-12-29T09:00:00.000-08:00

I wanted to take a moment to wish all of you a happy new year. Going into 2009, you are assured to get the same high-quality attention and dental care from me and my team. Each year, we all do our best to improve our skills and our practice to offer you the best dental service in the area.

And, as we head into the new year, I’d like to remind you to make sure and prioritize dental health for you and your family. The little things you do for home care and with your regular cleaning and prevention visits are very important.

Best wishes for the new year. I hope that you will continue to tell your family and friends about our practice and let people know about the excellent dental care your receive from us.

Back to basics

2008-12-02T09:51:00.000-08:00

It is definitely one of the themes you are hearing a lot about lately. People are refocusing on the basics on a lot of topics. And, one that should be top of your list is dental care.

Dental care could be one of the easiest parts of your day. Simple brushing and flossing can keep your teeth in good condition and help you avoid long-term problems. But it is also important to visit your dentist for routine cleanings, screenings and care.

One of the basics you should be considering right now is ensuring good dental health for yourself and your family. If you have not had your regular appointment in more than six months, you need to put that on your calendar. If it has been more than a year since you have visited me for oral cancer screenings and a check for gum disease, this should be placed as a priority, too.

Remember the basic warning signs, too. Sore or bleeding gums, sensitive teeth and bad breath are all signs that you should be addressing some of your basics when it comes to your dental health.

Holiday Gift Idea

2008-11-04T20:24:00.001-08:00

We are all being affected by the slowdown right now. And, this, with the holiday season just around the corner. I am sure that you have had some thoughts already about how this might affect your holiday gift-giving.

When you are considering gifts that are long-lasting and meaningful, you should think about teeth whitening for teenagers and adults. We offer a number of options for teeth whitening and it can be a gift that affects lives for years. Improving a smile with whiter teeth can make a professional difference for a person, as well as personal differences. Plus, it can make people happier.

Begin your holiday planning now. If you want a gift that keeps on giving, consider teeth whitening.

Holiday Gift Idea

2008-11-04T20:19:00.000-08:00

What does biocompatible dentistry mean?

2008-10-01T12:58:00.000-07:00

Biocompatible dentistry is an approach to dentistry that focuses on keeping toxic substances out of your mouth and, therefore, your body. And, with modern dentistry, there is no reason why any toxic substances should be used.

Many people come in wanting to have their old, grey or black fillings removed for aesthetic purposes. The new white composite fillings that blend with the teeth simply look better. That may be true but the better reason to replace black/grey/silver fillings is because the amalgam that is used contains Mercury, a highly toxic metal.

Mercury can leech out of these fillings in very small does into your system. And, this sort of filling expands and contracts, endangering the stability of the tooth. In general, we can do better. The composite materials we use in white fillings are stronger, do not expand and contract and are fully biocompatible.

For biocompatible reasons, I would like you to be motivated to have your black/grey/silver fillings replaced. If you need the extra motivation, it looks much better but I would be more concerned with getting the Mercury out of your teeth.

If you have any questions about your fillings or biocompatible dentistry in general, please email me today.

Ringing in the ears… might be TMJ

2008-09-03T08:16:00.000-07:00

Every once in a while, I am reminded how random the symptoms of TMJ can be. As you know, I am a neuromuscular dentist and I treat Tempromandibular Joint Disorder. Is this always characterized by straight up jaw joint pain. Absolutely not.

It takes a neuroumuscular dentist to recognize that Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is another symptom of TMJ that is commonly misdiagnosed and often goes untreated or is treated ineffectively. In many cases ringing in the ears is one of the results of having a strained bite in which the jaw is not aligned. The jaw area of the face is a complex network of muscles and nerves, and when the bite is misaligned muscles and nerves throughout the head, including the ears, can be affected.

Tinnitus can also be one of the most alarming and hard to live with conditions a person can have. If you are experiencing a ringing in your ears, please make an appointment with me for a TMJ screening.

Bad Breath? Read this blog.

2008-07-30T09:52:00.000-07:00

It is a topic that most people don’t want to discuss too readily, but bad breath is more than just a social problem. Studies show that more than 80% of people deal with bad breath on an ongoing basis.

Usually, bad breath can be remedied with good attention to cleaning and dental hygiene. Regular visits to see for check-ups and cleanings will keep you on a good path for oral health. And, regular visits allow me to make sure than symptoms like bad breath are not the signs of something more serious like gum disease.

Proper brushing and regular flossing will keep your teeth clean. This is one of the main causes of bad breath. Brushing after each meal and flossing to clean out between teeth removes any food remains that can be a breeding ground for bacteria, which is what can cause bad breath.

And, when you are brushing, brush your tongue. Bacteria can accumulate on your tongue, too, and this can cause bad breath, as well.

If you are a smoker, here is another good reason to quit. Tobacco products leave behind a smell that will give you bad breath. This one is a particularly hard-to-cover odor.

See, it is not that uncommon. If you contend with bad breath of one degree or another, then you are not alone. If you have any questions, please come in to visit me for a cleaning or a check-up and we can talk about it.

Showing some passion for your smile and dental health.

2008-07-01T13:52:00.000-07:00

As a dentist, my passion for my patients’ smiles and their dental health is pretty apparent. If I did not love what I did and I did not think it was important, you would feel like just another patient with just another mouth when you visit me. However, part of the reason I write this blog and part of the reason why my team works so hard to make you feel at home in our office is because we have that passion for your smile and dental health. And, we want you to have it, too!

One of the reasons I have taken advanced training as a dentist is to make the experience as beneficial as I can for all my patients. I believe in the saying that “Anything worth doing is worth doing well.” This is why I pursued cosmetic and neuromuscular dentistry and it is why I invest in the latest treatments and training. It is all part of a passion to offer you the best. My office staff makes the extra effort and time to make sure that when you visit us you feel like a guest and that you are appreciated.

Now it is your part. Surely, you should care as much about your dental health and smile as we do! So many people do not prioritize their visits to the dentist. And, even more do not think of what a little cosmetic work could do for them. White, straighter teeth… a healthier smile… any little pains or discomforts in your mouth treated…. If you want any of these things but are not doing anything about it, join my team in showing a little passion for your dental health. Call me if there is anything I can do for you.

Diet and Dental Health

2008-05-30T12:57:00.001-07:00

Summer is almost here and I have a great summer project for you. That project is your health!

I’m not talking about toning up, dieting or anything else that is so ambitious. What I suggest is that you observe your health over these summer months. That might provide you with an idea of just exactly where you and your family members are when it comes to your overall health.

Here is the project I propose. Take the next three summer months to keep a food journal. Simply make a log of what you eat and when you eat it. This usually gives people a pretty good insight into areas they might be able to improve nutritionally.

In terms of your dental health, you may want to look for how and when you eat certain foods. Look for times when you eat certain foods. It is commonly known that sugar causes tooth decay. So, you should know that a good habit is to brush within 20 minutes of eating a big sugary snack or treat. This cuts down on the amount of time the sugar will attack the teeth. Acids caused by sugar breaking down attack the teeth for up to 20 minutes. On a food journal, you will see when you routinely leave yourself open to greater effects of high sugar foods.

Also, watch for those isolated snacks. Foods that are eaten as part of meal cause less harm on teeth because more saliva is produced during a meal. This helps wash foods from the mouth, thus lessening the effect of sugars on the teeth.

You will learn more about yourself if you try this summer food journal. No need to be perfect. Just give it a try and if you want to bring it in to review with me on your next cleaning visit, then I will be happy to help you interpret the results and, hopefully, help you continue good oral health.

What are you doing with your tax rebate?

2008-05-06T12:03:00.000-07:00

Last week, the first tax rebate checks started to arrive. So, what are you going to do with your piece of the economic stimulus? Many people are taking care of some basics that have been put off. If your dental health or appearance has fallen into that category, this could be your opportunity to care for yourself a little.

In the past few months, I have blogged about replacing black or grey fillings with white resin fillings. This has a direct relation to you long term health. If you short-term dental health needs include cleanings, routine checkups and screenings or if you have been putting off asking me about a pain or problem, why not spend a little of your rebate on your dental health.

If you are up-to-date on your dental health maintenance, are feeling now jaw, neck or head pains that could be associated with TMJ and you generally feel good, you may want to consider visiting me to whiten your teeth. If you have never tried it or if you are ready for another whitening after a few years, just contact our office to schedule an appointment.

Concerned about lead? What about other toxins?

2008-04-04T12:40:00.001-07:00

The recent concern about lead on imported toys and products from China is a warning for all of us to be concerned about our immediate environment. I am sure that you checked the packaging on gifts you gave and got for the holidays and that is a good start.

But, in your vigilance over toxic substances, don’t forget your fillings if you have black, silver or amalgam fillings. These fillings contain Mercury unlike modern “white” ceramic fillings.

If you have black fillings but you will not buy a toy from China that has a lead warning, you still have some work today. Why not schedule an appointment with me to discuss the importance of replacing black, silver and amalgam fillings with white fillings?

Why not ask?

2007-12-03T21:22:00.000-08:00

You would be surprised how many people live with the wish of wanting to make some cosmetic changes to their smile. But, there is always something else on their mind or on their plate and they never take the time to ask about it. So, as the holiday season approaches, I want to encourage everyone to take a few minutes and do something for yourself.

I see it all the time. There is never time for something for yourself. Children, work, family, the holidays and all of your other obligations take up all your time. People tell you to take a minute for yourself or think of yourself first for once. It’s good advice. So, this holiday season, I encourage you, even for one day, to stop and do something for yourself.

And, if that thing is cosmetic dentistry, please call or email me. I will be happy to answer all of your questions and give you my informed opinion on what are the best options and what might be the best options for you.

Why not ask? Why not take a minute and send me an email? You might be surprised where it takes you.

For those with a sweet tooth

2007-10-30T13:39:00.001-07:00

All you need is a quick trip to the grocery store to realize how much sugar is poured into the Halloween holiday each year. If you have kids, most likely you will have a sugar rush to deal with this week. To make the most of it, use this influx of sugar as a reminder to reinforce good brushing and flossing habits.

Sugar, saliva and bacteria can work together, leading to tooth decay that causes cavities. That is why brushing and flossing at least twice daily is important. This attention to cleaning should include between teeth and along the gumline.

You always hear about what you should do but sometimes it is important to review what happens if you don’t. In general, sucrose (which comes from sugar) and glycoproteins (a combination of a carbohydrate molecule and a protein molecule, can stick to teeth and begin the formation of plaque, which attracts bacteria.

Lactic acid is a byproduct of the bacteria when it metabolizes sugar in this anarerobic environment. It is the lactic acid that dissolves tooth enamel, leading to a cavity.

In addition to a diet that is rich in calcium and fluoride, brushing and flossing is crucial to preventing cavities. So, on Halloween, is it okay to indulge in some treats. Why not? Just make sure and brush and floss afterwards

New videos for you.

2007-09-26T13:03:00.000-07:00

Earlier this month, our web site began broadcasting The Cosmetic Channel™. You can click here to visit our web site. Just click on the button that says, “The Cosmetic Channel™ - Click here to watch.

I have chosen these online “shows” for your education and, sometimes, entertainment. If you return to our web site each month, you will see new “episodes.” I got this for my clients to help you learn more about the importance of great dental care and to learn more about the benefits of cosmetic dentistry.

So, stay tuned to our web site for more new video on The Cosmetic Channel™!

TMJ and Headaches

2007-09-04T18:07:00.000-07:00

Did you know migraine headaches can be caused by TMJ issues? A misaligned jaw can be the reason for many pains and discomforts.

Normally, you would not think of taking your migraine headache issues to a dentist. Most people go to the doctor and get medication if the need persists. Or, they just live with it and ride out the headaches. It takes some research, a heads-up referral, and often a lot of frustration before some migraine sufferers finally seek out a neuromuscular dentist.

Misaligned jaws can cause a number of issues beyond simple jaw popping and pain. This is how most people know TMJ, so to connect TMJ with migraines may seem a difficult jump to make. In truth, it is not. In layman’s terms, the muscles and nerves that surround the jaw area are affected when the bite it not right. A misaligned bite may cause localized pain at the jaw but the effects radiate out to nearby areas. Naturally, this can cause severe headaches and even migraines.

If you or someone you know has migraines, why not ask them to call my office for a TMJ test that will let them know if I can help their migraine problem. Better to treat the cause for a lifetime, than to continue to treat the symptoms for the moment with medications that may not always work.

New Guidelines for Heart Patients

2007-07-26T11:58:00.001-07:00

There was a recent article on The American Dental Association web site that published a recent revision in the recommended use of anti-biotics prior to a dental visit. These new recommendations apply to many dental procedures, including teeth cleaning and extractions.

For years, The American Heart Association advised patients take anti-biotics just before a dental visit if they have certain heart conditions. The prevailing thought has been that doing so would prevent infective endocarditis, also known as bacterial endocarditis.

The latest guidelines published in the AHA’s scientific journal in April 2007 adjust their recommendation. In short, the AHA recommends that most patients with heart conditions not take short-term anti-biotics before a visit to the dentist as a precaution for endorcarditis.

Preventive anti-biotics prior to a dental procedure still are advised for patients with:

1. artificial heart valves
2. a history of infective endocarditis
3. certain specific, serious congenital (present from birth) heart conditions, including
* unrepaired or incompletely repaired cyanotic congenital heart disease, including those with palliative shunts and conduits
* a completely repaired congenital heart defect with prosthetic material or device, whether placed by surgery or by catheter intervention, during the first six months after the procedure
* any repaired congenital heart defect with residual defect at the site or adjacent to the site of a prosthetic patch or a prosthetic device
4. a cardiac transplant that develops a problem in a heart valve.

Patients with congenital heart disease can have complicated circumstances. They should check with their cardiologist if there is any question at all as to the category that best fits their needs.

You can learn more about this at ada.org.

Periodontal care and your overall wellness

2007-04-01T14:14:00.000-07:00

Periodontal care is one of the most important aspects of dental health because periodontal disease (or disease of the gums) has been linked to several other health problems. We are interested in your general wellness and that means remembering periodontal care.

A few common facts you may know are that there is link between periodontal disease and heart disease. And, surely, you know that proper brushing technique includes brushing the gums and that you should floss regularly as part of your daily care for you gums.

What many people do not know is that certain conditions can increase the likelihood for periodontal disease. For instance, if you are in a high stress life style or career or if you have poor coping skills in dealing with stress, you are at higher risk for periodontal disease.

So what do you do about that? Go back to the basics in caring for your gums. Take that extra few minutes while brushing to make sure you are doing a good job on your gums, in front and behind the teeth.

And, while you are doing it, take a breather. Try to relax and take care of yourself!

Our commitment to personal attention

2007-03-01T14:13:00.000-08:00

I hope that my patients know my commitment to personal attention. This is one of the important elements that I think separates my practice from other dentists. It has always been my intention to make patients feel at home in our dental office. This goes well beyond simply being polite while performing your dental care.

There is an obvious, warm quality that goes along with genuine personal attention. It is our goal for our patients to experience this when they come to us for a visit. Why? It's how we really feel. So, it is important to us that you know this.

How many times do you go to a business or a professional service and you feel like a number? You are the next one in line, so now it is your time to get your service. That is not how we operate here and, every once in a while, I like to make it a point for our team to focus on this fact.

When you visit us for your dental needs, we want you to feel our genuine interest in your care. Call it personal attention… but it is all about caring.

It’s surprising so many people live with this kind of pain

2007-01-30T14:12:00.000-08:00

Part of the continuing education I have taken courses on treating Tempromandibular Joint Disorder. Many people know this condition as TMJ, which is usually known for causing jaw pain. However, TMJ is much more complicated disorder and many people live with the pain.

Basically, TMJ is a misalignment of the jaws and it can cause a lot more than jaw pain. TMJ can manifest itself in the form of head, neck and shoulder pain in addition to jaw pain. It can also cause a ringing in the ears.

Because there are so many symptoms that are not associated directly with the jaw, it is common for people to see a doctor for their pain instead of a dentist. This is often the reason why TMJ goes undiagnosed. The sufferer complains about headaches and a battery of tests for severe headaches may not turn up TMJ unless the doctor is looking for it. This is why many TMJ sufferers have been told the pain is “just in their head” after a visit to their general practitioner.

I have learned advanced treatments for TMJ and I help people with this disorder all the time. If you are suffering from these persistent pains and just living with it because you cannot get your pain diagnosed properly, please call me or email me here. The same goes for anyone you know who might be simply living with TMJ pain. I can help.

Whiter teeth for the Holidays

2006-12-01T14:12:00.000-08:00

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 858-457-7994 to learn more? Or you can click here to read more about your options on my web site.

Extreme Makeover was on ABC again last month

2006-11-01T14:11:00.000-08:00

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 me at 858-457-7994 or email me.

A couple thoughts about why we do what we do

2006-10-01T14:09:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite parts about being a cosmetic dentist is seeing people gain confidence almost immediately. This is one of the amazing results of cosmetic dentistry and it is a phenomenon cosmetic dentists talk about all the time. We see this in our practice when people see their new smiles for the first time. When someone sees an area that they consider a flaw suddenly transformed into a strength, you can literally 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. Attractive personalities draw people in because they can seem so natural expressing themselves. The truth is that they are relaxed and comfortable with how they appear. That is what is translating 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 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.