Dental Gum Disease Treatment

An Easy Treatment for Gum Disease

The use of laser technology for dental problems has evolved to an almost miraculous level! It produces positive results, and its use is patient friendly and minimally invasive. It has successfully been used in treatment of gum disease, in place of surgery. This FDA-approved procedure is virtually painless and additionally helps to regenerate bone mass in the jaw that may have been lost due to chronic gum infection.

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

Understanding Your Dental Plan

Learn more about what the American Dental Association has to about understanding your dental plan.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

Dental Teeth Whitening

Dazzling White Teeth

Is your smile healthy, but not as white as you'd like it to be? Dr. Berger creates custom whitening trays that mold to your teeth to deliver beautifully white teeth in just 1 – 14 days. You follow the instructions using the supplies we send home with you. This safe, effective approach is FDA approved and very affordable!

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

Chew on this: Six dental myths debunked

Myth 1: The consequences of poor oral health are restricted to the mouth

Expectant mothers may not know that what they eat affects the tooth development of the fetus. Poor nutrition during pregnancy may make the unborn child more likely to have tooth decay later in life. “Between the ages of 14 weeks to four months, deficiencies in calcium, vitamin D, vitamin A, protein and calories could result in oral defects,” says Carole Palmer, EdD, RD, professor at TUSDM and head of the division of nutrition and oral health promotion in the department of public health and community service. Some data also suggest that lack of adequate vitamin B6 or B12 could be a risk factor for cleft lip and cleft palate formation.

In children, tooth decay is the most prevalent disease, about five times more common than childhood asthma. “If a child’s mouth hurts due to tooth decay, he/she is less likely to be able to concentrate at school and is more likely to be eating foods that are easier to chew but that are less nutritious. Foods such as donuts and pastries are often lower in nutritional quality and higher in sugar content than more nutritious foods that require chewing, like fruits and vegetables,” says Palmer. “Oral complications combined with poor diet can also contribute to cognitive and growth problems and can contribute to obesity.”

Myth 2: More sugar means more tooth decay

It isn’t the amount of sugar you eat; it is the amount of time that the sugar has contact with the teeth. “Foods such as slowly-dissolving candies and soda are in the mouth for longer periods of time. This increases the amount of time teeth are exposed to the acids formed by oral bacteria from the sugars,” says Palmer.

Some research shows that teens obtain about 40 percent of their carbohydrate intake from soft drinks. This constant beverage use increases the risk of tooth decay. Sugar-free carbonated drinks and acidic beverages, such as lemonade, are often considered safer for teeth than sugared beverages but can also contribute to demineralization of tooth enamel if consumed regularly.

To read the entire article written by Medardo Chua, please visit IDentalAccess.com

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

Tobacco Risks on Oral Health

Learn what the American Dental Association has to say about tobacco risks on oral health.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

Three Oral Hygiene Tips for Men

When it comes to personal oral hygiene, not all men are as attentive to their teeth as women. Starting with the checkup, surveys suggests men are more likely to see a dentist only in the event of a problem. So, guys, learn how to step up your oral care routine with the following tips for maintaining a healthy smile and preventing oral health problems before they start.

Toothbrush Tips
Brushing is just one part of keeping your mouth clean - doing so twice a day, in particular. However, the average man brushes his teeth 1.9 times a day, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). It's not enough to brush quickly and be on your way; two minutes of thorough cleaning is your most effective approach. Keep in mind you don't need to brush hard during this process. Use a soft-bristled brush such as Colgate® Slim Soft™ and brush gently at a 45-degree angle.

Some helpful hints: Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, rinse it after each use and store it in an upright position to air dry. Storing it in a container actually allows microorganisms to grow on the brush, explains the American Dental Association (ADA), so it's best to avoid this method.

Sports and Dental Injuries
Playing contact sports can lead to trauma in unexpected places, and this includes broken, chipped or lost teeth. Wear a mouthguard when you're on the field and a helmet when you're on your bike. Ultimately, see your dentist as soon as possible after experiencing an incident to quickly assess the damage and determine what can be done to fix it.

To read the entire article written by Margie Monin Dombrowski, please visit Colgate.com 

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

Children's Dentistry

No More Dental Fears

We want every generation of children to feel relaxed for their visits and be relieved of any fears. As parents have told us, we are very successful at achieving this goal. If you are concerned about an active three-year-old or scared seven-year-old, we can take care of those problems.

A Dentist Is an Essential Part of Your Child's Good Health

We take care of your children, just like a pediatrician does. We trust you understand that oral health plays a vital role in a person's overall health.

It is well known that children's teeth are more susceptible to cavities than an adult's teeth. There are various factors that contribute to the easy onset of cavities. Children eat frequently throughout the day. Every time food is consumed, acids are produced in the mouth. A build-up and prolonged exposure to acids provide the right environment for cavities to develop. And even the smallest amount of decay is permanent damage to a tooth. 

As children do not brush or floss well, we advise parents to be a part of their daily dental hygiene until they learn to take care of their teeth properly on their own. We also encourage healthier food choices, and one application of a mineralizing sealant to keep their teeth healthy for a lifetime.

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

Regular Dental Check-Ups

Learn what the American Dental Association has to say about regular dental check-ups.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

A New Year's You: Dental Health Resolutions

Your dental health is an important part of your overall wellness, and the New Year is a great time to create resolutions for improving your health. Many people have dental health resolutions that range from improving their toothbrushing habits to completing delayed dental treatment. Understanding the benefits of your particular resolutions can be motivating and rewarding. Whatever your goals might be, it is important to take small steps to achieve them. Consistency is key with any resolution that you make.

Improving Toothbrushing and Flossing Habits
Perhaps you would like to improve your oral health. Daily toothbrushing and flossing is a sure and simple way to improve your oral health. For successful bacterial plaque removal, it is important to brush at least twice a day using an appropriately sized, soft-bristle, manual or electric toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste. When you brush your teeth, gently position the toothbrush bristles at a 45-degree angle toward the gumline and move the toothbrush across the teeth to effectively remove bacterial plaque. It is also important to floss at least once per day to remove bacterial plaque and food that has accumulated throughout the day. Your toothbrush should be replaced every 3 to 4 months, as well as after you have a cold or flu or if the bristles are frayed. Daily toothbrushing and flossing help to prevent gingivitis (gum disease), tooth decay and halitosis (bad breath). The daily use of antimicrobial and fluoride mouthrinses also helps to improve your oral health.

To read the entire article written by Yolanda Eddis, please visit Colgate.com

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

Dental Gum Disease Treatments

An Easy Way to Combat Gum Infection

It is important to be treated for gum disease at the first signs of the problem. Once the infection is advanced, your only option may be surgery. When treated in the earlier stages of the problem, nonsurgical approaches can stop the infection. Usually, both forms of treatment are covered by dental insurance.

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

After-Hours Emergency Dentistry

Learn more about what the American Dental Association has to about after-hours emergency dentistry.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

Full Mouth Dental Rehabilitation

What is Full Mouth Rehabilitation?

Many patients have problems with their teeth that go beyond decay. Often, they are not aware how big of an impact oral problems can be. Bruxism (tooth grinding), periodontitis, TMJ, and crooked or missing teeth can create problems that originate with your jaw or teeth. Headaches, migraines, bad breath, and a displeasing smile are all problems that can be corrected with modern dental technologies.

Dr. Berger takes the time to address these problems and answer all your questions about rehabilitating your mouth to the shape and placement nature intended. He takes digital X-rays, imprints, and photos of your teeth to develop an appropriate treatment plan. You can have a beautiful smile and relief from chronic pain with a full mouth rehabilitation.

We also discuss financial planning for phased treatment that will make your dream of a beautiful smile and improved health come true. 

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

Are You Flossing Or Just Lying About Flossing? The Dentist Knows

There's nothing like jamming a waxed piece of string between your tightest molars and sliding it back and forth. And who doesn't do that once a day, just as the dentist prescribes?

Well, a lot of us. Twenty-seven percent of adults lie to their dentists about how often they floss their teeth, a survey released Tuesday found. Not only that, but more than a third of people surveyed would rather be doing unpleasant chores than flossing their teeth daily. Fourteen percent would rather clean the toilet. Nine percent would rather sit in gridlock traffic for an hour. And 7 percent would rather listen to small children crying on a plane.

Actually, that 27 percent sounds awfully low. When we called up Dr. Joan Otomo-Corgel, a periodontist and president of the American Academy of Periodontology, which conducted the survey, she said: "Is that all?"
More than a third of Americans would rather do an unpleasant activity than floss.
American Academy of Periodontology

She's not the only oral health professional who thinks many patients are fibbing when they say they're flossing. "I am shocked," says Dr. Sally Cram, a periodontist and spokesperson for the American Dental Association, via email. "Given my experience with patients in my practice I thought it would be higher!"

To read the entire article written by Jessie Rack, please visit NPR.org

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

20 Mistakes You're Making With Your Teeth

Taking care of your pearly whites isn't rocket science, but it's easy to slip into habits that could cause heartache -- er, toothache -- in the long run. We got the latest on giving your teeth the TLC they need from two New York City pros: Alice Lee, DDS, an assistant professor in the Department of Dentistry for Montefiore Health System, and Alison Newgard, DDS, an assistant professor of clinical dentistry at Columbia University College of Dentistry, will clue you in on where you could be going wrong.

Multitasking while you brush
Every minute in the morning feels precious, so it's tempting to brush your teeth in the shower or while scrolling through your Twitter feed. "To each his own," says Dr. Newgard, "but I prefer patients to be in front of a mirror, over the sink; you can be sure to hit all the surfaces of your teeth, and you'll do a more thorough job when you're not distracted." Better to leave the bathroom a few minutes later having given proper attention to each step of your prep.

Overcleaning your toothbrush
Thinking about running your brush through the dishwasher or zapping it in the microwave to disinfect it? Think again: While we've all seen those stories about toothbrushes harboring gross bacteria, the CDC says there's no evidence that anyone has ever gotten sick from their own toothbrush. Just give your brush a good rinse with regular old tap water, let it air-dry, and store it upright where it's not touching anyone else's brush. More drastic cleaning measures may damage your brush, the CDC notes, which defeats its purpose.

Using social media as your dentist
The web is full of weird and (seemingly) wonderful DIY dental tips that can hurt much more than they'll help. Read our lips: Don't even go there. "I've heard of patients who go on Pinterest and find ways to whiten their teeth there--by swishing with straight peroxide, for example--which are not good for their teeth," Dr. Newgard says. "Use ADA-approved products that have been tested." (Another online tip to skip: trying to close up a gap in your teeth with DIY rubber band braces.) 

To read the entire article written by Lauren Oster, please visit HuffingtonPost.com 

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

Antibiotics & Your Heart

Learn what the American Dental Association has to say about antibiotics and your heart.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

Dental Digital X-Rays

Digital Imaging Technology for X-rays

Digital X-rays are an advancement from the traditional method, with 75% less radiation and no developing chemicals that are harmful to the environment. A sensor placed in your mouth takes an image that is available on our computer screen almost immediately, another feature that reduces your time in the dental chair.

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

More Than a Quarter of Americans Have This Untreated Disease

Let's just say, it might be time to get your pearly whites checked.

It's time for Americans to get over their fear of the dentist. According to new data published from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Center for Health Statistics, more than 25% of U.S. adults aged 20 to 64 have untreated tooth decay. Additionally, 1 in 5 adults aged 65 and older may have it as well.

And if that's not motivation enough to take a seat in the dental chair, 91% have one tooth (or more) that has been treated for tooth decay or needs to be.

To read the entire article written by Samantha Toscano, please visit GoodHouseKeeping.com

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

Power Toothbrushes

Learn what the American Dental Association has to say about power toothbrushes.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

Children's Dental Sealants

Lessening the Chances of Tooth Decay in Children

Even careful brushing sometimes misses the contours of back teeth. As plaque forms and exposure to acids continues, a cavity will form. We offer an excellent preventive technique that will help in the fight against cavities. Dr. Berger can apply a thin layer of a dental sealant, which adds an extra measure of protection against cavities.

It is a quick and easy treatment that is pain free with no shots, drilling, or tooth removal necessary. This is how the sealant is applied:

All teeth are cleaned properly and sterilized. A thin coating of the sealant is applied. It is invisible, as it is clear or white. With a curing light, the coating is bonded to the surface of teeth. And that is the whole procedure that takes just minutes! This is one of the best preventive measures to help children and adolescents keep their mouths cavity free! 

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

Risks to Oral Health During Pregnancy

Learn more about what the American Dental Association has to about risks to your oral health during pregnancy.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

White Dental Fillings

Natural-Looking Fillings

For years, the amalgam filling was the most prevalent type of filling material for restorations. It is not the most suitable material, as metal does not bond as tightly as needed, and many people don't want the dark plug in their teeth. 

At our practice, we use only the latest composite resin fillings, unnoticeable because they are made to match the shade of the tooth. They contain no metals, adhere tightly to tooth structure, and actually give additional strength to a tooth. This type of filling enhances your smile while diminishing the chance of decay setting in.

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

Best and Worst Halloween Candy Options for Children’s Teeth

Halloween is just around the corner, and although candy consumption is almost unavoidable this time of year, the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) wants parents and children to know that there are both good and bad candy options, both of which may find their way into children's trick-or-treat bags this fall. 
  
"Of course, dentists do not advocate that children eat large amounts of sugary treats, but it is that time of year, so we want to clarify for parents which treats are better for their kids' teeth and which ones may increase the risk of developing cavities," says AGD spokesperson Cynthia Sherwood, DDS, FAGD. 

To read the entire article, visit: KnowYourTeeth.com

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

What are Cavities?

Learn more about what the American Dental Association has to say about what cavities are.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

Dental Technology

An Advancement in Patient Comfort

Your comfort is our first concern, and we are very pleased to provide Isolite^® to make your treatment easier. This device is a combination of a brilliant light and vacuum that allows you to spend about one-third less time in the chair. Saliva won't build up in the mouth and the jaw won't become fatigued from continuously being held open. There are no worries about debris being swallowed, as the suction will both remove debris and keep the mouth dry, which is what is needed for best results. The bright light reduces shadows in the interior of the mouth and allows for greater accuracy during procedures.

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

When Should My Child First See a Dentist?

Your child's first visit to the dentist should happen before his or her first birthday. The general rule is six months after eruption of the first tooth. Taking your child to the dentist at a young age is the best way to prevent problems such as tooth decay, and can help parents learn how to clean their child's teeth and identify his or her fluoride needs. After all, decay can occur as soon as teeth appear. Bringing your child to the dentist early often leads to a lifetime of good oral care habits and acclimates your child to the dental office, thereby reducing anxiety and fear, which will make for plenty of stress-free visits in the future. 

To read the entire article, visit: KnowYourTeeth.com

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

Inter-Dental Cleaners

Learn more about what the American Dental Association has to say about inter-dental cleaners.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

Dental Gum Disease

A Startling Discovery about Gum Disease

For years, the main health risk with gum disease was losing your teeth. However, recent research has revealed a link between chronic gum infection and life-threatening conditions such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, and diabetes. Dentists now consider periodontal (gum) disease to be a more serious problem than losing your teeth.

Even worse, the American Dental Association believes that 80% of the adult American population has infected gums. This is at an epidemic proportion and is as serious as any life-threatening illness.

It is important to realize that the bacteria infecting the gums are circulated through the bloodstream, affecting every vital organ in the body. The American Academy of Periodontology reports that "studies found periodontal infection may contribute to the development of heart disease, increase the risk of premature, underweight births, and pose a serious threat to people whose health is already compromised due to diabetes and respiratory diseases."

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com

Dentists Are the First Line of Defense for Elder Abuse

With the American population living longer, seniors' oral health has become an important issue, as has the widespread problem of elder abuse. Every year more than 2.5 million older Americans may be victims of elder abuse, and in some cases dentists serve as the first line of defense, according to a report in the May/June 2005 issue of General Dentistry, the clinical, peer-reviewed journal of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD).

To read the entire article, visit: KnowYourTeeth.com

Artisan Dental   
Jeff Berger, DDS   
19604 Mono Way   
Sonora, CA 95370   
(209) 532-2915   
ArtisanDDS.com