Livermore Dentist - Fillings FAQ - Smiles by Design in Livermore

Fillings
1. What is the difference between silver and tooth-colored fillings?
There are three important factors with regard to filling materials. First, there is a striking cosmetic difference. Tooth-colored fillings are actually bonded or glued to the surrounding tooth, which minimizes stress on the tooth and often results in less risk of fracture or decay. Second, traditional silver fillings conversely can place stress or tension on a tooth - and this can substantially weaken the tooth itself. Many times, with silver fillings, a weakened tooth will fracture. Undetectable tooth decay may be present, which is not apparent until after a fracture occurs. Extensive damage to the tooth can result. This damage, in many cases, may require root canal treatment and/or full crown placement. Third, there is significant controversy with regard to the mercury content in silver fillings and the impact the presence of this substance has in the body.

2. Do tooth-colored fillings last as long as silver fillings?
Several types of tooth-colored restorations are available today. It is our opinion that silver would not be an option for filling material in our own mouths; therefore, we do not use it in our practice. The primary reason, aside from the unknown effects of silver in the body, is that when properly designed and placed, a tooth-colored restoration is a longer-term restoration than a silver filling. We plan on our fillings and restorations lasting a lifetime; however, many different variables exist that could result in damage, or the need to replace a restoration. A good, preventative dental care regimen is essential for minimizing these variables. We have an excellent record with placing restorations that routinely last for decades.

3. What types of tooth-colored restorations are there?
Each of the four different types of restoration options that we use on a daily basis are used to accomplish a different objective. We always discuss the reasoning behind the restoration options we select for our patients prior to beginning treatment. Whenever our patients have questions about their treatment, we are always happy to answer them!

1. Direct bonded composite resin fillings are used for the repair of teeth that have small and less involved damage to the tooth. The key determinant in selecting this material is that the tooth being restored does not need additional reinforcement or strengthening in order to remain intact. This procedure takes less time, and is therefore less costly, than the other options.
2. Indirect bonded ceramic restorations (3/4 crowns) are placed when damage to a tooth is at a point when additional strength is needed for support. In addition, damaged areas of the remaining tooth may need to be covered. Preparing these restorations requires the services of a dental laboratory technician. He or she creates correctly shaped and colored ceramic material, matching it to the existing, damaged tooth. When this new restoration is bonded or glued onto the tooth, that tooth is returned to a condition that closely resembles, in appearance and strength, the original, undamaged tooth.
3. Bonded ceramic full crowns are placed when extensive damage or decay has resulted in large defects and/or when loss the original tooth structure has occurred. Frequently, root canal treatment has taken place prior to our restoration. Dental laboratory services are required in order to fabricate this type of restoration.
4. Veneers are another tooth-colored restoration option. Veneers are discussed in the third FAQ section

Tracy Dentist - Pain and Anxiety Management FAQ - Smiles by Design in Livermore

Pain and Anxiety Management
1. How can you help me with my tremendous amount of fear and anxiety about going to the dentist?
First, you should know that there are many people who share your same concerns. Second, please know that we have methods of helping you manage and deal with your fears and anxieties.
2. What methods do you use to deal with my anxieties?
There are several methods available, including safe and effective medications if your anxiety is extremely high. We want you to be sure to tell us if this is the case! We are used to helping many of our patients who have various degrees of fear and anxiety, so be assured that we can work with you, too. If you have specific concerns, or just questions with regard to how we manage anxiety, please call us or schedule a "no-charge" consultation appointment so that we can discuss this with you in-person.

3. Do you practice "pain-free" dentistry?

"Pain-free" is a condition we cannot promise, but it is what we strive for every day with each of our patients. We can substantially minimize your pain by discussing your threshold of discomfort before we start any procedures – and paying close attention to this while we work. Your comfort is always our concern. Every effort is made to ensure that each of our patients feels as relaxed and comfortable as possible while we are working.
4. How will your approach to "Neuromuscular Dentistry" help me?
We professionally evaluate head, neck, back, shoulder and jaw pain. This pain can be reduced, or even eliminated. We may recommend that we replace defective dental restorations. We may suggest that we realign your bite through the use of appliances to help you achieve a comfortable jaw position. In addition, by administering hands-on treatment, we minimize and relieve pain and prevent further damage to muscles, joints and teeth. We may prescribe an appliance or an orthotic device. We may also use computer-aided instruments to measure your jaw joint and muscle activity. This allows us to improve and correct your bite or jaw position, which may be the cause of your pain.

Pleasanton Dentist - Fillings FAQ - Smiles by Design in Livermore

Fillings
1. What is the difference between silver and tooth-colored fillings?
There are three important factors with regard to filling materials. First, there is a striking cosmetic difference. Tooth-colored fillings are actually bonded or glued to the surrounding tooth, which minimizes stress on the tooth and often results in less risk of fracture or decay. Second, traditional silver fillings conversely can place stress or tension on a tooth - and this can substantially weaken the tooth itself. Many times, with silver fillings, a weakened tooth will fracture. Undetectable tooth decay may be present, which is not apparent until after a fracture occurs. Extensive damage to the tooth can result. This damage, in many cases, may require root canal treatment and/or full crown placement. Third, there is significant controversy with regard to the mercury content in silver fillings and the impact the presence of this substance has in the body.

2. Do tooth-colored fillings last as long as silver fillings?
Several types of tooth-colored restorations are available today. It is our opinion that silver would not be an option for filling material in our own mouths; therefore, we do not use it in our practice. The primary reason, aside from the unknown effects of silver in the body, is that when properly designed and placed, a tooth-colored restoration is a longer-term restoration than a silver filling. We plan on our fillings and restorations lasting a lifetime; however, many different variables exist that could result in damage, or the need to replace a restoration. A good, preventative dental care regimen is essential for minimizing these variables. We have an excellent record with placing restorations that routinely last for decades.

3. What types of tooth-colored restorations are there?

Each of the four different types of restoration options that we use on a daily basis are used to accomplish a different objective. We always discuss the reasoning behind the restoration options we select for our patients prior to beginning treatment. Whenever our patients have questions about their treatment, we are always happy to answer them!

1. Direct bonded composite resin fillings are used for the repair of teeth that have small and less involved damage to the tooth. The key determinant in selecting this material is that the tooth being restored does not need additional reinforcement or strengthening in order to remain intact. This procedure takes less time, and is therefore less costly, than the other options.
2. Indirect bonded ceramic restorations (3/4 crowns) are placed when damage to a tooth is at a point when additional strength is needed for support. In addition, damaged areas of the remaining tooth may need to be covered. Preparing these restorations requires the services of a dental laboratory technician. He or she creates correctly shaped and colored ceramic material, matching it to the existing, damaged tooth. When this new restoration is bonded or glued onto the tooth, that tooth is returned to a condition that closely resembles, in appearance and strength, the original, undamaged tooth.
3. Bonded ceramic full crowns are placed when extensive damage or decay has resulted in large defects and/or when loss the original tooth structure has occurred. Frequently, root canal treatment has taken place prior to our restoration. Dental laboratory services are required in order to fabricate this type of restoration.
4. Veneers are another tooth-colored restoration option. Veneers are discussed in the third FAQ section.

Livermore Dentist - Lasers in Dentistry FAQ - Smiles by Design in Livermore

Lasers in Dentistry
1. What are lasers used for?
There are different types of lasers, all used for different purposes. We have three types of lasers in our office: one involves using laser technology to help diagnose tooth decay; another is used for surgical procedures such as the removal of tooth structure or to sculpt gum tissue; and a third type is used just to treat gum disease. This involves weekly treatments. Healing occurs between visits. The goal is to completely remove all disease from the gum tissue, which is so important to long-term dental health and retention of teeth. Our office is on the absolute leading edge of laser technology. We have created our own protocol for treating gum disease with advanced laser technology – and we achieve a degree of success in treating gum disease that was impossible prior to the advent of laser technology. The clinical members of our staff are all members of the Academy of Laser Dentistry, recognized and credentialed in the use of the most advanced laser instruments. To learn more about the use of lasers in dentistry, visit www.laserdentistry.org.

2. Why haven't I heard about the use of lasers in dentistry before?

Lasers have been used in medicine (especially for treating eye conditions) and dentistry for decades; however, advancements in laser instrument technology and techniques have improved significantly in only recent years. More importantly, only a few professionals have chosen to acquire the additional training and make the extra investment required to successfully integrate lasers into their practices. That is why most people are not aware of the benefits of being treated with lasers. As more practitioners become involved, you will hear more about this approach. Our philosophy is to provide only the very best care for our patients. We are, therefore, committed to learning about and integrating into our practice the latest and most advanced treatments and technologies available today.

Livermore Dentist - Veneers FAQ - Smiles by Design in Livermore

Veneers1. What is a veneer?
The term "veneer" refers to the type of restoration that covers the face of a tooth. Veneers can be made of three different materials: plastic; a specially-hardened ceramic; or porcelain. (These last two are more durable than plastic.) We discuss the risks and benefits of all three options with our patients. Veneers are used to sculpt and shape, and can be affixed to teeth of all different configurations. Veneer thickness can be adjusted and, of course, so can the color, depending on what is needed.

2. How are veneers put onto my teeth?
After a tooth has been prepared, veneers are "bonded" onto the tooth surface. "Bonding" is the process involved in affixing the veneer to a tooth using advanced materials that allow adhesive attachment directly onto the tooth. This process yields excellent long-term results.

3. Can veneers close the spaces between my teeth?
Absolutely. Veneer materials are flexible and provide more sculpting possibilities than having a full crown (or a "cap") put onto a tooth. When affixed by a skilled practitioner, veneers can be completely invisible. Veneers have come to be so effective that, in many cases, orthodontic treatment for tooth re-positioning is not needed. With veneers, the overall appearance of the teeth can be significantly improved – whiter color, smoother surface(s), better shape(s) and appropriate tooth size(s) – all of which are part of a fabulous new smile.

4. How long does it take to have veneers put on my teeth?
It varies, depending on how much of a change we decide to make to your smile. Most veneers can be placed in one or two visits. A skilled dental ceramic technician must fabricate each veneer individually, so that each tooth color and shape is matched to your new smile requirements. This process takes about two weeks. If plastic veneer material is used, then only one visit may be needed. Plastic veneers are made in our office.

5. How long will my veneers last?

This depends upon a number of variables, some of which are within your control, including how well you take care of your teeth. With the materials available today, your veneers may last up to ten years, or longer. Our goal is to achieve long-term restoration. That means we strive to make your restorations last for up to fifteen to twenty years. With excellent care, there is a chance that even this length of time may be exceeded!

Livermore Dentist - Creating My New Smile FAQ - Smiles by Design in Livermore

 Creating My New Smile
1. How do I find out about having you create my new, healthy smile?
 Since every person is an individual and every situation is different, creating your new smile begins only after a complete discussion of your goals and ideas. Using this as background, we proceed through a complete examination, which will include photographs and may include models. We manipulate the photographs we have taken using the latest in computer imaging technology. You can then actually see your new smile before we begin our work! If extensive changes are going to be made, models may also be required so that we have detailed impressions of your mouth structure, your teeth and your bite. Using one or both of these techniques allows us to make a comprehensive evaluation of what cosmetic and structural changes are needed in order to achieve the goals you have set for your new smile.

2. What are some of the options you will discuss with me?
Some of the options include teeth whitening, as well as procedures such as reshaping or tooth movement. We may use a combination of techniques to achieve your goals. Many people are unfamiliar with the latest techniques and are surprised to learn what can be done to improve their smile.

3. I am not aware that my dental health is deteriorating. Should I have you check, just to see exactly what my condition is?
Absolutely. If you have never had a thorough examination performed by a highly qualified aesthetic dentist, you may be surprised by what you learn. Many people are not even aware of damage or deterioration in their mouths. For example, by the age of 50, teeth may be worn down by approximately 25% to 50%. And this damage is often found in combination with worn out fillings or crowns and mild (painless) gum disease. If problems such as these are not addressed and treated quickly, by the age of 60 or 70, significant tooth loss and overall mouth health deterioration may occur.

4. How expensive will it be for you to create my new smile?
We understand that expense is always a concern for anyone who is considering initiating restorative or complete dental care. It is important to keep this in mind – investing in your dental health today will minimize future dental care expenses. There are helpful options so that you can afford to obtain your new smile – and achieve long-term dental health. Due to reimbursement limitations of many dental insurance plans, most people find it helpful to pursue a combination of financial strategies. We are committed to helping you find the right options in order to achieve the smile you deserve.

At no charge, we offer complimentary consultations. If you have questions, want further information, or are just interested in getting a second opinion, we would be happy to meet with you. After we discuss your individual situation, and if you decide that you would like to proceed with us, we will discuss a fee structure, financial options and your payment plan.

Livermore Dentist - Gum Disease - Smiles by Design in Livermore

Gum disease is very common and can take various forms. Some forms are painful, but many are not and can go undiscovered for years without detection if someone doesn't see a dental professional (dentist or hygienist) for help. The key to dealing with gum disease is to prevent it from developing into a form that is dangerous to the long-term use of teeth. This is relatively easy for most of us as it simply involves daily brushing and flossing as well as regular cleanings and exams with a dental professional.

There are a great number of different forms of gum disease and a few of the most common types include:

1. Gingivitis - this type of gum problem is so common that it could be considered normal and is not dangerous to the teeth and gums at this stage. This condition is relatively easy to improve and should be done to prevent development of additional gum disease.

2. Periodontitis - this type of gum disease takes different forms and can only be properly diagnosed by a dentist. All forms require treatment and the more severe form may not be treated successfully; in other words, it can, in late stages, cause loss of some or all the teeth.

• Mild periodontitis - will slowly and without pain get worse. At this stage, the disease is very treatable. This form afflicts almost all adults at some point during a lifetime.
  
• Moderate periodontitis - a more advanced form of gum disease than mild periodontitis. This form is also very treatable, but the treatment is considerably more involved as the bone underneath the gums has been affected.
  
• Advanced periodontitis - a very dangerous disease not only to the teeth but even the general health may be affected at this stage or even at earlier stages. All patients with cardiovascular disease and heart problems as well as diabetes should ensure that any form of gum disease is treated. This type of gum disease frequently results in tooth loss and is not hard to detect but can be very difficult or even impossible to treat without loss of the teeth.

The traditional methods of dealing with gum disease still apply and serve as the basic level of treatment. These include cleaning the teeth mechanically with a variety of instruments such as the usual metal scalers and the polishers, but also the ultrasonic cleaners which spray water and use high frequency sound waves to loosen the plaque and tartar that clings to the teeth and which provides the environment for bacteria and the associated infection so characteristic of gum disease.

There have been a number of new developments and improvements over the past 5-10 years including:

• Laser therapy - lasers can be used in a variety of ways to help either kill bacteria or remove diseased tissue.
• Neutraceuticals - dietary supplements which can help provide benefits to the immune system which can help with gum disease.

The most important aspect of any treatment program is the maintenance care following the active treatment phase. There have been a significant number of improvements to the methods of cleaning your teeth at home. When a good home care habit is combined with an active maintenance cleaning program provided by your dentist and hygienist, most cases require little, if any, further active treatment.

Livermore Dentist - FAQ's - Smiles by Design Livermore

Here is one of  the most frequently asked questions we receive from our patients. Feel free to send us yours. We reserve the right to add your question to this section of our website. (Your name will, of course, not be used.) To send us your question or questions, just e-mail us at: talktothedoc@masterpiecesmilesbydesign.com.
Teeth Whitening
1. What is the difference between having a procedure in your office vs. buying some of the kits or materials that are advertised on television and in magazines?
The procedure performed in our office (ZOOM) results in an almost instant whiter and brighter appearance. The is the same process that you have seen on the "makeover" shows and, having our specially-trained staff administer it, ensures your health and safety throughout the procedure. The products purchased at retail stores are made with a weaker solution than those used by professionals. Applying these solutions at home does not produce the dramatic changes and results that most people are looking for when they want a new, whiter smile.

2. Is it painful to have my teeth whitened?

The whitening process frequently results in increased cold sensitivity. We feel that properly managing the whitening process requires the help of a trained professional, so that minimal discomfort is experienced. If you have had problems or were unhappy with the results from previous whitening procedures, we can help you. We would be happy to discuss your situation with you – here in the office, on the telephone or via e-mail.

3. How long will it take?
Our "in-office" whitening procedure can be done in a little over an hour. If you choose to use a "take-home" whitening kit, we will supply you with a whitening agent that will provide maximum whitening capability and minimum side effects. Please be aware that if you do choose the "take-home" kit option, even with daily use, it will take several weeks (a month or more) to see real results.

4. How much will it cost?
The "in-office" procedure seen on the "makeover" shows can cost in excess of $500. We are, however, committed to helping as many people as possible achieve the smile of their dreams. For a limited time, we are offering this service for only $400. If you are not a candidate for "in-office" whitening, you may choose from two types of "take-home" procedures. The cost of these is $200 or $100. We will advise you on which option is best for you.
Look for more frequently asked questions.

Tracy Dentist - Cosmetic Dentistry without braces - Smiles by Design in Livermore

 

So often we get questions from people about the common misperception that braces are required in order to have a beautiful new smile. You probably don't need braces in order for us to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Even if you do need braces, why not let us help you limit the amount of time you will be in braces and, at the same time, give you the whitest, most beautiful smile that is possible with modern cosmetic dental care. Some of these modern techniques include:

Veneers – Ultra-thin, special laminated veneers are used to cover the broken and discolored teeth and to close gaps and correct crowded teeth, usually without orthodontics.

Adhesive Bonding – Procedures which are used to “glue” the latest in space-age acrylics and ceramics directly to teeth in order to provide additional strength to fragile teeth as well as to create a smoother and more symmetrical appearance of an individual tooth.

Implants – “Artificial roots” that are surgically placed and integrate or join to the jaw bone, which can be used to replace missing teeth. Once the implant is placed and integrated to the bone, then a very lifelike artificial tooth can be attached to the “artificial root.”

At “Smiles by Design,” an individualized dental care plan is developed by Dr. Howes and a complete consultation is held, which ensures that your goals and desires are met and the process of smile enhancement is both explained to you and well organized for your convenience.

Livermore Dentist - Aesthetic Dentistry Care - Smiles by Design Livermore

 

“Aesthetic dentistry” is a form of cosmetic dentistry that utilizes a combination of advanced technology and the latest in comfort techniques to provide the health and beauty that our clients deserve. Aesthetic dental care is devoted to achieving a cosmetically pleasing smile (cosmetic dentistry) through a total health care approach. This means that we create beautiful smiles by helping our patients improve their overall dental health, which results in better health for the whole system. We approach cosmetic dental care from a total wellness perspective.

Aesthetic dental care includes…

Tooth Whitening

• Advanced whitening system called “Zoom,” which you may have seen on the “Extreme Makeover” show.
• “Zoom” is less expensive and just as effective as the more heavily advertised brand.

Tooth Contouring and Reshaping

• Used to create subtle improvements in a smile.
• Addresses problems with chips, cracks and overlapping teeth.
• Corrects minor bite problems.

Fillings – Replacements and New Cavities

• Space-age acrylics and ceramics are used to create a truly lifelike appearance.
• Lasers and electric turbine handpieces are used to replace broken down metal fillings and crowns.
• Superior techniques and training allow the most efficient use of time and provide the most durable restorations, which can mean decades of trouble-free use.

Aesthetic Gum Tissue Care

• Lasers are used to sculpt gum line and eliminate imperfections.
• Laser therapy is also used to enhance the healing process for treatment of gum disease while minimizing discomfort, unlike conventional gum surgery.

Protective and Preventive Procedures to Restore Damage Due to Age, Trauma, Decay, Cracked and Dark Teeth

• Ultra-thin, special laminated veneers are used to cover the broken and discolored teeth and to close gaps and correct crowded teeth, usually without orthodontics.
• Adhesive bonding procedures are provided in order to sculpt and smooth tooth surfaces and achieve the flawless, symmetrical perfection of a naturally beautiful smile.
• Replacement of natural teeth with the most advanced surgically placed artificial roots called “implants.”

Special Care for Those with a High Level of Anxiety

• Safe and effective medications are available for those with a high degree of anxiety and down right fear when faced with dental treatment.
• The latest in “comfort” techniques, which decreases anxiety and leads to improved and more complete treatment.

At “Smiles by Design,” an individualized dental care plan is developed by Dr. Howes and a complete consultation is held, which ensures that your goals and desires are met and the process of smile enhancement is both explained to you and well organized for your convenience.

Livermore Dentist - A Beautiful Smile is Priceless - Smiles by Design

Our practice provides the new techniques that enable us to deliver the exceptional results you deserve. We help a range of people, usually adults with a multitude of different problems and conditions.

If you are embarrassed by your smile due to…

• Faded, chipped or cracked teeth?
• Crooked or crowded teeth?
• Stained or dark teeth?
• Uneven spaces between teeth?
• Worn down and old looking teeth?

You don't have to be ashamed of your smile anymore!

We can provide the results you are looking for at a level that is affordable. We will work to understand your needs and concerns so that we can complete your treatment in the most comfortable and efficient manner possible. You will experience the innovative changes and technological advances that permit the excellent care we provide our patients every day.

Don't hold back that beautiful smile.

Don't just wish for a smile to be proud of.

A BEAUTIFUL SMILE IS PRICELESS

• Show the world your smile with confidence!
• Show the world who you are!
• Show the world how proud you are!
• Show the world your confidence!

Don't just smile in your dreams…make it a reality!

You only need to call us at 925-443-4182 for a smile analysis and evaluation. We are happy to offer ideas and information about how we can design the smile of your dreams.

Tracy Dentist - Temporomandibular Joint, which is a common area of recurring pain - Smiles by Design in Livermore

The TMJ refers to the jaw joint or the Temporomandibular Joint, which is a common area of recurring pain. Most adults will suffer from jaw or muscle pain or problem related to jaw joint or jaw muscles. These types of problems are more properly called TMD or Temporomandibular Joint Disorders. Now or in the future, you are likely to benefit from neuromuscular treatment , which is a holistic and total health care method of treatment with a multidisciplined approach to improve the pain and problems related to the jaw joints and jaw muscles.

You may benefit from the latest techniques used to both evaluate and treat a range of problems and conditions that are causing pain, such as:

Headaches – tension headaches, migraines and sinus headaches

• Understand how jaw alignment issues and poorly designed and defective dental restorations can be changed to reduce or even eliminate your pain.
• Benefit from a multidisciplined approach from a group of professionals all trained in a particular aspect of this complex and multifaceted disorder.

Neck, Back and Shoulder Pain

• Receive help from a number of different providers to develop a regimen of different therapies and treatments.
• Obtain the hands-on treatment you need to minimize and relieve pain and prevent further damage to muscles and joints.

Jaw Joint Pain

• Get the help you need to correct and improve your bite and jaw position that may be causing your joint pain.
• You may elect to have an appliance or what is called on “orthotic” device made, which is designed to reduce your jaw pain.
• Benefit from the use of the latest devices such as computer-aided instruments to measure and help evaluate your jaw muscle activity, joint noises (clicking, popping and grinding), jaw movements and a myriad of other facets of the complicated jaw joint and jaw muscle activity.

You can learn about cutting-edge information and technology from a group of elite practitioners each from a different discipline and all focused on helping you achieve a superior level of health and wellness.

Simply call today to speak with our expert staff and to schedule your first consultation.

Livermore Dentist - How Often Should I see a Dentist - Smiles by Design Livermore

Most children and adults should see their dentist for a regular cleaning and check up every six months. People at a greater risk for oral diseases should have dental check ups more than twice a year. Tobacco and alcohol use, diabetes, pregnancy, periodontal and gum disease, poor oral hygiene and certain medical conditions are some of the many factors that your dentist takes into consideration when deciding how often you need your dental cleaning and check up.

Going to your regular check ups will help to keep your gums and teeth healthy as well as detect any early problems such as gum disease, oral cancer and cavities.

 The best way to maintain good oral health is to visit your dentist on a regular basis.

by Tammy Davenport About.com

Dentist Pleasanton - Treating Dental Emergencies - Smiles by Design Livermore

Treating Dental Emergencies

If a dental accident occurs, the first thing to remember is to remain cool, calm and collected. Review and memorize these following steps now, and then you'll know what to do in case of an emergency. Remember that the advice of a dental professional should be gotten at any time when there is an injury to your teeth or mouth.
Dental Emergencies
Unlike a chipped or cracked tooth, some dental hygiene injuries are not obvious. Damage to the mouth can cause trouble that may not be seen, but could result for you in the loss of one or more teeth. So check with your dentist as soon as possible if an injury occurs to the teeth or mouth.

If a tooth is knocked out during an accident:
    * Do not scrub or clean the tooth.
    * Place the tooth in a small container of milk, saline solution if available, or a special tooth-preserving solution available at your pharmacy.
    * See your dentist as soon as possible, preferably within 30 minutes. Don't forget to take the tooth with you.

With prompt attention, a permanent tooth may be re-implanted into the tooth socket and remain normal and healthy.

Tracy Dentist - Choosing a Tooth Brush - Smiles by Design in Livermore

There are so many toothbrushes on the market, what is the right choice?  Now days with all the different designs, colors, materials and attachments one never knows what to choose for their toothbrush. Guess what, the most important thing about your toothbrush is to use it at least 2-3 times a day.  Also, as equally important is how long you spend brushing your teeth. The design is secondary.

The Smiles by Design team recommends that you spend 2-3 minutes brushing 2-3 times a day. This ensures complete plaque removal especially in those hard to reach areas
.
Electric and manual toothbrushes

Our dental team highly recommends an electric toothbrush. The pulsations break up plaque efficiently. Many models now have timers to remind you to brush longer.

It is always nice to have a backup manual toothbrush. When choosing a manual toothbrush, look for a compact head with very soft, rounded bristles.

Tracy Dentist - Stress does effect your Oral Health - Smiles by Design in Livermore

All of us experience stress in our lives.  But too much stress in your life can also effect your gums,  teeth and your overall oral health.

Stress and anxiety can cause the following

Mouth canker and cold sores

Clenching of your teeth and teeth grinding

Poor care of your teeth  and unhealthy eating routines

Gum disease

So how can you prevent these health problems in your mouth?

Just being aware of the importance of hygiene and healthy eating may help. Making sure you are on a good exercise routine can help you relieve stress and give you the energy to tend to your oral hygiene and cook healthier meals. Exercise will also boost your immune system -- and that, too, is good for your oral health.