Los Gatos Dental Group Blog

Los Gatos Cosmetic Dentist Discusses Benefits of Lumineers®

Mon, 07 May 2012 20:20:00 GMT

If you are unhappy with the cosmetic appearance of your teeth Lumineers® may be the perfect option for you. These ultra-thin shells fit perfectly over the teeth, making them look cosmetically perfect. You know how dull, discolored teeth or a crooked smile can affect your confidence. Lumineers® are an excellent option for patients who desire a beautiful smile without surgery, harsh chemicals or painful treatments.

Unlike dental veneers, Lumineers® applied by your Los Gatos Cosmetic Dentistry can be left in place for over 20 years or removed upon request to expose the original, intact teeth. Lumineers® can be fitted in just two appointments, and instantly add pizzazz to the smile.
Here are some of the problems that Lumineers® can solve:

Large gaps between teeth.
Misaligned teeth or misshapen teeth
Stained teeth.
Uneven gums and teeth.
Unnatural looking bridges and crowns.

How can Lumineers® benefit me?
One of the greatest advantages of using Lumineers® is that they are ultra-thin – about the thickness of a contact lens – and no painful alterations of your natural teeth are required prior to application. Injections of local anesthetic are unnecessary because no drilling is required, and the entire application can be completed in two visits. Lumineers® will last over 20 years with proper care but are removable since healthy tooth structure is not affected.

How are Lumineers applied?
During the first visit to Los Gatos Cosmetic Dentist Office, we will thoroughly examine your teeth to ensure that no tooth decay or gum disease is present. Molds (or impressions) and X-rays are then taken to determine your bite. Working with you, we will choose the color of the Lumineers® and the desired level of transparency. The bite impressions are sent to the laboratory to be custom-crafted.

The Lumineers® are bonded to your teeth at the second appointment. Once the Lumineers® are in place we polish them until they are completely smooth. This smooth surface helps repel bacteria and staining agents, leaving you with a healthy, beautiful smile that will last for many years to come!

Los Gatos, CA, Cosmetic Dentist Explains Custom Teeth Whitening

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 15:45:00 GMT

Your smile is one of your greatest assets, and the first thing people notice. It’s no wonder that whiter teeth have become the number one aesthetic concern of most patients. Fortunately, tooth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to brighten natural tooth enamel and is an easy way to enhance the beauty of your smile.

Today there are several options you can choose to whiten your teeth. Remember, though, that tooth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel so it is important to evaluate replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc. At Los Gatos Cosmetic Dentist Office we replace these restorations only after bleaching so they will match the newly bleached teeth.

It is also important to remember that any bleaching or tooth whitening treatment is not permanent. Depending on your individual habits of consuming stain-producing products like tobacco, coffee, tea or wine, a touch-up maybe needed every several years.

Reasons for tooth whitening:

Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during tooth development)
Normal wear of outer tooth layer
Stained teeth due to medications (tetracycline, etc.)
Yellow, brown stained teeth

What does custom tooth whitening involve?
By far the most effective and longest lasting results are obtained with custom tooth whitening done by your dentist. Custom tooth whitening normally requires two visits to Los Gatos, CA Cosmetic Dentist. During the first appointment, impressions (molds) will be made of your teeth and used to create custom, clear plastic trays.

At your second appointment, the trays will be adjusted as needed to ensure a proper fit. Another advantage to custom tooth whitening is that your dental professional will ensure that the trays fit properly and are not exposing sensitive gum tissue to the bleaching agent.

You will take home the trays and wear with the special whitening solution provided by your dentist. Your dentist will recommend the length of time and frequency that the trays should be worn, depending on the degree of staining and desired level of whitening. Increased tooth sensitivity is a normal side effect experienced during the whitening process, but will subside shortly after you have stopped bleaching.
.

Los Gatos, CA Cosmetic Dentist Office Offers Tooth Whitening Tips

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 15:25:00 GMT

As we approach summertime everyone is more conscious of their appearance. We’re getting in shape for beach season by exercising and toning our bodies. But what about your smile? How does it measure up?

If you’re looking for a quick solution to brightening your smile, tooth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive cosmetic dental treatment that brightens the color of your natural tooth enamel and dramatically enhances the beauty of your smile. The Los Gatos, CA Cosmetic Dentist has several options for whitening your discolored teeth, but since an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, it helps to be aware of the factors that contribute to discoloration of your smile.

Nature: Some people’s teeth are inherently more yellow in color. This is not a defect, and the simple explanation for this is that the enamel (the outermost layer) of your teeth is more translucent, making the underlying yellow dentin more apparent.

Improper Oral Hygiene: This is a major contributor to the discoloration of your teeth. Poor oral hygiene will always result in yellowing of the teeth, along with other major dental problems.

Aging: As we age, our teeth will naturally become worn and somewhat discolored. No matter how much care you take with your oral hygiene, the enamel becomes slightly pitted and worn, allowing staining agents to gradually discolor your teeth. The wearing of the enamel also makes the yellowish dentin more noticeable

Staining: There are a number of stain-causing foods and products that are responsible for a vast majority of tooth discolorations: tobacco, coffee, tea, dark sodas (such as cola), red wine, dark fruit juices (grape, cranberry), blueberries, soy sauce and tomato sauce. Obviously, it’s not necessary or even advisable to cut all these foods out completely, but you have a better chance of maintaining a healthy white smile if you remember to brush or at least rinse your mouth after ingesting these products.

A beautiful white smile is one of your greatest assets and the first thing people notice about you. It’s an important part of that vital first impression. You don’t have to settle for a less-than-dazzling smile. The Los Gatos Cosmetic Dentistry has several tooth whitening options that can get you on your way to the bright sparkling smile you’ve always wanted.

Los Gatos, CA Cosmetic Dentist Office Offers Tooth Whitening Tips

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 23:11:00 GMT

As we approach summertime everyone is more conscious of their appearance. We’re getting in shape for beach season by exercising and toning our bodies. But what about your smile? How does it measure up?

If you’re looking for a quick solution to brightening your smile, tooth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive cosmetic dental treatment that brightens the color of your natural tooth enamel and dramatically enhances the beauty of your smile. The Los Gatos, CA Cosmetic Dentist has several options for whitening your discolored teeth, but since an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, it helps to be aware of the factors that contribute to discoloration of your smile.

Nature: Some people’s teeth are inherently more yellow in color. This is not a defect, and the simple explanation for this is that the enamel (the outermost layer) of your teeth is more translucent, making the underlying yellow dentin more apparent.

Improper Oral Hygiene: This is a major contributor to the discoloration of your teeth. Poor oral hygiene will always result in yellowing of the teeth, along with other major dental problems.

Aging: As we age, our teeth will naturally become worn and somewhat discolored. No matter how much care you take with your oral hygiene, the enamel becomes slightly pitted and worn, allowing staining agents to gradually discolor your teeth. The wearing of the enamel also makes the yellowish dentin more noticeable

Staining: There are a number of stain-causing foods and products that are responsible for a vast majority of tooth discolorations: tobacco, coffee, tea, dark sodas (such as cola), red wine, dark fruit juices (grape, cranberry), blueberries, soy sauce and tomato sauce. Obviously, it’s not necessary or even advisable to cut all these foods out completely, but you have a better chance of maintaining a healthy white smile if you remember to brush or at least rinse your mouth after ingesting these products.

A beautiful white smile is one of your greatest assets and the first thing people notice about you. It’s an important part of that vital first impression. You don’t have to settle for a less-than-dazzling smile. Los Gatos Cosmetic Dentistry has several tooth whitening options that can get you on your way to the bright sparkling smile you’ve always wanted.

Los Gatos Dentist Reviews Benefits of Mini Dental Implants

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 20:46:00 GMT

Tooth loss can have a devastating impact on your health and your self-esteem, whether it’s caused by trauma, accident, or infection. Many patients become overly self-conscious and find it difficult to smile confidently. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers a variety of tooth replacement options. If you’ve lost a tooth, it’s important for you to assess your options and work with your dentist to find a dental solution that works for you. Today I’d like to discuss a specific tooth replacement option that our Los Gatos, CA Dental Implants Office offers—mini dental implants.

What are mini dental implants?

In general, dental implants are comprised of small titanium rods that are surgically inserted into the jawbone, filling the space previously held by a natural tooth. Mini dental implants are simply a smaller version of traditional dental implants. Over time, the titanium of the implant fuses to the jaw bone, forming a strong and stable base. Once the titanium root is fully integrated into the bone, it is then capped with a natural looking dental restoration that looks and functions like a natural tooth. This allows the patient to eat, drink, and speak normally and with confidence knowing that their implant is completely stable and natural-looking.

How do mini dental implants differ from traditional dental implants?

The primary difference between conventional implants and mini dental implants is size. Mini dental implants are thinner than traditional implants and so they cause less trauma to the tooth when they are implanted. Therefore Mini dental implants can provide a number of advantages over regular implants:

Lower cost - Mini dental implants cost less than conventional implants.
Shorter treatment time - Compared to conventional implants, we are usually able to place mini dental implants in just one or two appointments
Shorter recovery time - Mini dental implants require a shorter recovery time compared to conventional implants, since they cause less trauma to the jawbone when placed.
More flexibility in placement - Because of their size, mini dental implants can be used to fill spaces where a conventional implant would not fit. They can also be used to anchor other dental restorations such as bridges or dentures.

If you’ve been putting off tooth replacement, mini dental implants may be the solution for you. The Los Gatos Dentist Dental Implants office can provide you with more information on this revolutionary treatment. Give us a call or submit an inquiry online for more details or to schedule an appointment!

Los Gatos Periodontics Dentistry Explains Health Concerns Associated with Periodontal Disease

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 21:01:00 GMT

Many patients at our Los Gatos Periodontics Dentist Office understand that periodontal disease is a serious oral health issue. What they may not realize is that research has established a strong connection between periodontal disease and other chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, pregnancy complications and respiratory disease.

Diabetes
It has been shown that individuals with pre-existing diabetic conditions are likely to be more susceptible to periodontal disease. Periodontal disease increases blood sugar levels, making it a challenge to control the amount of glucose in the blood. This factor alone can increase the risk of serious diabetic complications.

Heart Disease
Several theories exist which connect heart disease and periodontitis. One theory is that oral bacteria present with periodontal disease can attach themselves to coronary arteries when they enter the bloodstream. This in turn contributes to the formation of blood clots and a narrowing of the coronary arteries.

Another theory suggests that inflammation caused by periodontal disease causes an increased build-up of arterial plaque. This can inflame the arteries and worsen pre-existing heart conditions. It has been suggested that patients whose bodies react to periodontal bacteria are at increased risk of developing heart disease.

Pregnancy Complications
Women in general are more prone to developing periodontal disease because of hormonal fluctuations occurring continuously as they go through life and the aging process. Research indicates that pregnant women suffering from periodontal disease are at greater risk of delivering underweight, premature babies.

Respiratory Disease
The oral bacteria present with gum disease has been shown to be a potential threat to sufferers of emphysema, pneumonia and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). These bacteria can be drawn into the lower respiratory tract during the course of normal inhalation and create bacterial infections. Repeated infections which characterize COPD may be linked with periodontitis.

As you can see, periodontal disease can create significant and serious concerns far beyond oral health alone. The good news is that periodontal disease is a highly preventable and treatable disease if caught immediately. Be sure to protect your oral and overall general health by contacting our Los Gatos Periodontics Dentist to schedule regular dental examinations and cleanings.

Los Gatos Cosmetic Dentist Explains the Benefits of Lumineers

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 17:06:00 GMT

If you’re looking for ways to transform your smile with a minimum of time and expense, Lumineers may be the solution to your cosmetic dentistry needs. Our Los Gatos Cosmetic Dentist Office can use versatile Lumineers to restore your beautiful smile in just two appointments. Many patients wonder how dental Lumineers can be effective when they are so thin. Actually, Lumineers are so effective precisely because they are thinner than traditional cosmetic options, such as veneers.

How thin are Lumineers?
Lumineers are approximately 0.2 mm thick, which is about the same width as a contact lens. This makes them easier to apply, and less bulky on the tooth.

Why are Lumineers so thin?
Normally, a thicker veneer would require the dentist to remove large amounts of healthy tooth structure to accommodate the bulk of the veneers. Both Veneers and Lumineers offer stunning results, however veneers can compromise the structural integrity of a patient’s teeth in the process.

The fact that Lumineers are ultra-thin is actually an asset for many patients. Because Lumineers are the width of a contact lens, patients can enjoy:

Minimal removal of healthy tooth structure: The placement of Lumineers requires significantly less removal of healthy tooth material than veneers do. Obviously, the more healthy material that remains, the better it is for your overall oral health.
A removable cosmetic option: Because Lumineers are so thin they are removable and completely reversible.
Natural-looking results: Lumineers are thin and translucent, so they reflect and refract light similarly to natural tooth enamel. Lumineers can change the color, size, or shape of your teeth while still appearing naturally radiant.

Once Lumineers are bonded to natural teeth they are incredibly strong. These thin shells of mufti-dimensional porcelain can completely transform your smile in just a few appointments. Contact Los Gatos Cosmetic Dentistry and we will be happy to answer your questions about Lumineers.

Los Gatos Dentist Discusses the Advantages of Invisalign™ Clear Aligners

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 22:10:00 GMT

A beautiful, healthy smile can make a great first impression, but if you have crooked or uneven teeth, you may be less than confident about your smile. If you’ve been putting off having this corrected because you don't want to endure the process and time involved in wearing traditional braces, you are not alone. But there are options to correct alignment issues and give you back your beautiful smile. Today, let's take a look at some of the advantages of using the Invisalign™ system.

What makes Invisalign aligners preferable to traditional braces?
Easy Treatment Plan: Your Invisalign™ treatment starts when we take the X-rays used to create a 3-D digital image of your mouth. Next, you’ll be given a series of custom-made aligners that you will take home and change about every two weeks. You will see the difference in your smile every time you change aligners! You will be scheduled for checkups every six weeks or so at Los Gatos Cosmetic Dentist office so we can monitor your progress.
Convenient: Simply wear your aligners throughout the day, removing them to eat. This allows you to eat foods you love without the worry of particles getting stuck in wires and brackets.
Easily removable: You will continue to brush and floss your teeth as you normally would. Your Invisalign™ aligners can simply be brushed and rinsed in lukewarm water.
Adaptable to your active lifestyle: Since Invisalign™ aligners are nearly invisible; most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them. You don’t have to worry about the discomfort of metal braces and wires that can poke and irritate your mouth, and if you’re involved in contact sports, Invisalign™ aligners are easily removed, enabling you to wear a protective mouth guard if necessary.

How long does the entire process take?
It’s difficult to say exactly how long you will need to wear your Invisalign™ aligners since everyone is unique. Contact Los Gatos Dental for a free consultation to evaluate your individual situation. Generally speaking though, Invisalign™ treatment usually takes about a year for adults. For teens, the length of treatment is comparable to that of traditional braces, with less discomfort and the added advantage of seeing the improvement every time you change aligners!

Los Gatos Implant Dentist Reviews the Dental Implant Fixture

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 18:12:00 GMT

Have you been hiding your smile because you’re self-conscious about missing teeth? Maybe you’ve heard about implants but have put off doing anything about it because you’re just not sure what dental implants are exactly?
You’ve probably heard that dental implants are an excellent permanent solution for missing teeth, and that they are being used increasingly in place of traditional tooth replacement methods. But what are they and why do they work? Let’s take a look at the three basic components of a dental implant.

The Dental Implant Fixture

The Dental Implant Fixture is the part of the implant that is embedded in and becomes anchored to the jawbone through a process called “osseointegration”. Osseointegration simply refers to the process where the implant and surrounding tissue grow together, creating a permanent, new structure. This portion of the dental implant lies below the gum line and is sometimes referred to as the “artificial root”. The implant fixture is made of titanium in a screw-shaped design, and the surface is microscopically roughened, increasing its total surface area and creating greater bone-to-implant contact.

The Dental Implant Abutment

The abutment of a tooth implant is the stub portion of the fixture that will sit slightly above the gum line with a protruding surface that the crown or bridgework will rest upon. In order for the implant fixture to have time to fully integrate with the bone, the abutment is usually attached to the implant fixture by Los Gatos Dental several months after the titanium screw portion is placed.

The Dental Prosthesis

This is the part of the implant unit that is visible and will become your new tooth. “Prosthesis” refers to the dental crown or dental bridgework that is supported by the implant and the abutment described above. Depending on how this dental work has been designed, it can either be cemented or screwed into place. The placement of the dental prosthesis is the final step in the implant process.

If you are missing one or more teeth you may be a good candidate for dental implants. But each patient has different needs, so schedule a consultation with Los Gatos Dental Implant Office to determine if dental implants are right for you.

Los Gatos Cosmetic Dentist Explains The Six Month Smile

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 20:25:00 GMT

If you’ve been living too long with a less-than-dazzling smile because you don’t want to wear metal braces for years or worry that other corrective procedures would be too invasive or expensive, you’ll be happy to know that there is now an effective, safe and affordable cosmetic solution that fits any lifestyle.

Through a revolutionary combination of proven orthodontic techniques, modern materials, and innovative thought - Six Month Smiles® braces, available now at Los Gatos Dental, utilize specialized clear braces to gently straighten and align teeth in an average time of just six months. Because of the use of clear brackets and tooth-colored wires, the braces are hardly noticeable. The really good news is that Six Month Smiles® cosmetic braces are typically less expensive than traditional braces, clear aligners or veneers.

Six Month Smiles® uses very light and safe forces to move teeth at the same rate as traditional braces. The fact is that your teeth are not being moved any faster or with any more force than traditional braces. The difference between Six Month Smiles® Braces and traditional braces is that, with traditional braces the focus of the treatment is to correct the bite of all your teeth.

With Six Month Smiles® braces, the focus is on the teeth that show in your smile, giving you a fresh new look in a reasonable amount of time. Your front teeth move faster than your back teeth. With Six Month Smiles® braces your Los Gatos Cosmetic Dentist will simply stop treatment once the front teeth are positioned in a cosmetically pleasing arrangement. The rate of tooth movement is the same, but the total treatment time is faster - usually about six to eight months. If you have spaces, gaps, or crooked, crowded teeth, Six Month Smiles® braces may be the perfect solution for you.

Los Gatos Dentist Explains the Facts of Periodontal Disease

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 22:47:00 GMT

“Periodontal Disease” is a term that many people have heard but are often unaware of the nature of the disease, its causes, symptoms and treatment. At Los Gatos Dental we frequently see patients who don’t fully understand the seriousness of it or the potential it has to impact their lives. Let’s start with a simplified explanation of “Periodontal Disease”:

When bacteria in your mouth are allowed to go unchecked; they build up around your teeth at the gum line causing an infection of the gum tissue, ultimately leading to periodontal disease (gum disease). The lack of proper dental hygiene is the primary factor leading to gum disease, tut you may be surprised to learn that there are other contributing factors such as genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, poor diet, medications and tobacco use

Many people are unaware that they have Periodontal Disease because it often progresses without showing any signs or symptoms (such as pain) normally associated with other dental issues. Here are some of the more common symptoms of Periodontal Disease:

Unexplained bleeding while brushing, flossing or eating
Pain, redness or swelling of the gums
Longer-looking teeth caused by receding gums
Bad breath due to food particles stuck between teeth and under the gum line
Loose teeth/change in bite pattern resulting from loss of gum tissue

If you experience any of the above, contact your dentist or Periodontal professional immediately. At Los Gatos Periodontal Dentist we have specialized training and education to treat gum disease. Your comfort is of the utmost importance to our team, and we use advanced, state of the art, non-invasive laser treatments to eliminate gum disease quickly.

Unfortunately, Periodontal Disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults in the developed world today. But you do not have to become one of the statistics! With proper dental hygiene and regular cleanings and exams, it is highly preventable and easily treated.

Los Gatos Dentist Explains How dry mouth can affect oral health

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 17:43:00 GMT

An increasing number of patients in my practice are reporting a problem with dry mouth. This condition is termed "xerostomia." Xerostomia can be a side effect of the medications a person is taking for illnesses such as high blood pressure, anxiety, depression, allergies, weight loss, Parkinson's disease, pain and many more. However, there are many other factors that contribute to a decrease in salivary production including the aging process, radiation treatments and depression.

At Los Gatos Dentist we know that, aside from being annoying, the symptoms of dry mouth can cause significant dental hygiene problems. Saliva is the body’s natural cleansing mouth rinse. Each time we swallow, saliva washes away bacteria, as well as the food and debris on which they feed. Saliva contains compounds that kill bacteria in the mouth, and without proper dental hygiene dry mouth enhances the conditions for bacterial growth (and associated periodontal disease) as the ability to neutralize bacterial waste products is reduced.

If you’re experiencing chronic dry mouth and you suspect that it may be due to medication, consult with your medical doctor who may be able to adjust your dosage to help alleviate the problem. Some other steps you can take to reduce symptoms are:

Using sugar-free candy or gum
Drinking plenty of water to help keep your mouth moist
Using a vaporizer to add moisture to the air in your bedroom
Using an artificial saliva substitute available at your pharmacy

The reduction in saliva production leads to the very conditions on which the bacteria in your mouth thrive, allowing bacteria lingering at the gumline and between teeth to cause serious damage, periodontal disease or gingivitis. Since patients with Xerostomia (dry mouth) are at increased risk for periodontal disease, good dental hygiene - brushing regularly with fluoride toothpaste, using a fluoride rinse, and visiting your Los Gatos, CA Dentist Office frequently for cleanings and examinations - are critically important to your oral health.

Los Gatos General Dentist Explains How Cavities Form

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 21:44:00 GMT

There are an increasing number of reports about the damage caused by dental erosion. The problems that result from this process are not new. But our increased consumption of fruity drinks, soda and energy drinks has caused an increase in the number of patients experiencing the unfortunate results of this excess.

How Acidic Foods Cause Cavities

Tooth enamel is made of minerals, and cavities are caused by a process known as demineralization. This occurs when the enamel on your tooth comes in contact with sweet foods and drinks. Waste products created by bacteria as it consumes these sugars contain the acids that cause demineralization. When these acids remain on the teeth they start producing tooth decay within minutes.

Most of us have experienced cavities, but left untreated over a long period of time, a simple cavity can result in the complete destruction of the tooth structure. With the increased consumption of soda, fruit juices and energy drinks, our Los Gatos, CA Dentist Office is seeing an increase in the number of patients with dental erosion. While sugar is the most common cause of dental erosion, some other causes are:

Poor oral hygiene
Consuming sour foods or candies
Dry mouth or low saliva volume
Acid reflux disease (GERD), or heartburn

If you experience sensitivity when eating hot, cold or sweet foods and drinks you may have dental erosion. Also, yellowing of the enamel indicates that it is thinning and exposing the yellow dentin beneath. Dental erosion can literally destroy your teeth over time if not addressed, and if it reaches this point, tooth extraction and costly dental prosthetics may be necessary.

Diligent oral hygiene habits and regular visits to your dentist are the best defense against the destruction caused by dental erosion. Your Los Gatos Dentist is trained to detect signs of dental erosion and take the necessary steps to arrest and reverse its damage. If the enamel has sustained significant cosmetic damage, veneers, either porcelain or Lumineers, may be recommended to protect your teeth and restore your healthy smile.

Los Gatos Dental answers questions about Xylitol Gum

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 18:34:00 GMT

A number of my patients have come to me asking for more information about the benefits of Xylitol and Xylitol gum for maintaining healthy teeth. Today I’d like to address some of their questions and provide more facts about Xylitol.

What is Xylitol?

Xylitol is a natural sweetener first discovered in birch tree bark and also found in many fruits and vegetables. Xylitol is actually good for your teeth, unlike many other natural or synthetic sweeteners. Numerous clinical studies have shown that Xylitol does indeed prevent the growth of bacteria that causes decay. It also helps to strengthen tooth enamel and reduce plaque. Products sweetened with xylitol create an unwelcome environment for bacteria; they simply cannot stick to teeth in a xylitol-rich environment.

What are other benefits of Xylitol?

In addition, it not only has fewer calories and less effect on blood sugar than sucrose, but xylitol also inhibits the creation of acid in the mouth. This minimizes the damage done to your teeth, as well as allowing your teeth to heal at a faster rate. Xylitol has a low glycemic index of 7, compared to sugar's level of 83.

Because Xylitol is low on the glycemic index, many diabetic patients can enjoy it as a healthy alternative to sugar. When patients at my Los Gatos, CA Dental Office complain about frequent dry mouth, I can confidently recommend Xylitol gum or mints to stimulate saliva production without promoting tooth decay.

Is using Xylitol gum a substitute for brushing and dental exams?
The answer to this question is a resounding “No!” If you cannot brush your teeth after a meal, chewing Xylitol gum for five or ten minutes is probably a good idea. However, you should still brush your teeth thoroughly after meals and get routine exams and dental cleanings at your Los Gatos Dentist.

Los Gatos Dentist Discusses the Need for Fluoride Treatments

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 21:07:00 GMT

While fluoride alone will not prevent tooth decay, it is the most effective agent available to help maintain healthy teeth. It is a mineral that is present to some extent in most all foods and water supplies. The benefits of fluoride have been well known for over 50 years and are supported by many health and professional organizations.

Why are fluoride treatments important?

Although most people receive fluoride from food and water, it is not always enough to help prevent decay. Some of the reasons your dentist or dental hygienist may recommend the use of fluoride treatments are:

•   Deep pits and fissures on the chewing surfaces of teeth
•   Exposed and sensitive root surfaces
•   Fair to poor oral hygiene habits
•   Frequent sugar and carbohydrate intake
•   Inadequate exposure to fluorides

How does fluoride work?

Topical fluoride is introduced through the use of fluoride-containing dental products such as toothpaste, mouth rinses and gels. Topical fluoride strengthens teeth, making them more resistant to decay by seeping into the outer surface of the tooth enamel. At Los Gatos CA Dentist Office, we generally recommend that children have a professional application of topical fluoride twice a year during dental check-ups.

We gain systemic fluoride from most foods and our community water supplies Systemic fluoride strengthens not only teeth that have erupted, but those still developing under the gums. It can also be obtained as a supplement in drop or gel form prescribed by your dentist or physician. Generally, fluoride drops are recommended for infants, while tablets are best suited for children up through the teen years.

It is very important for a dental professional to monitor the amounts of fluoride a child ingests. If too much fluoride is consumed while the teeth are developing, a condition called fluorosis (white spots on the teeth) may result.