Dr. Neufeld's Dental Health Center Blog

How to Brush Your Teeth Thoroughly

richardneufelddds — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 23:44:37 +0000

Use a soft toothbrush & brush gently to protect your gums and tooth enamel
Tilt the brush at a 45 degree angle, facing where your teeth and gums meet
Brush 2-3 teeth at a time with a gentle vibrating motion
Clean all of the surfaces of your teeth
Brush your tongue gently or clean it with a tongue scraper

And, don’t forget to floss!

We can help you keep your teeth clean and healthy. (714) 996-1080 Fullerton, CA

10 Possible Causes of Burning Mouth Syndrome

richardneufelddds — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 18:24:53 +0000

Medications
Acid reflux
Dry mouth
Hormone imbalance
Diabetes
Under-active thyroid
Nerve damage
Allergies or sensitivities
Rubbing or irritation
Nutritional deficiencies –B vitamins, iron

What is an Abfraction & Why is it Making My Tooth Sensitive?

richardneufelddds — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:16:40 +0000

We see a lot of patients who are troubled by sensitive teeth. There are several potential causes, but one of the most common is an abfraction. Dental abfractions are defined as loss of tooth structure due to the flexing of teeth during chewing, grinding, or clenching.

They generally happen near the gum where teeth are most narrow and there is not a lot of tooth structure protecting the sensitive nerve. For this reason, even a small amount of enamel loss can cause sensitivity. Initially, abfractions may just look or feel like a groove at the gum line. As they become more advanced, the area will appear yellow and unsightly, as seen in the top picture below.

We have good news for you. Abfractions can be resurfaced with bonding material that provides insulation for the sensitive nerve. The process is relatively inexpensive and as simple as a filling. The lower picture above shows what they look like after treatment.

Abfractions may be caused by normal wear and tear, bite problems, or unnecessary clenching and grinding of your teeth. If grinding is an issue for you, a nightguard appliance may be recommended to protect your teeth and help with the sensitivity.

Dr. Neufeld has been treating abfractions successfully for over 30 years. If you are in the Orange County, CA area and would like his help, call (714) 996-1080.

Oral Cancer Screening is at the Top of Dr. Oz’s List

richardneufelddds — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 02:53:23 +0000

Recently, on his TV show, Dr. Oz recommended 5 medical screenings everyone should have yearly. Number one on his list is to be screened for oral cancer.

Why?

Oral cancer has one of the lowest survival rates because it is often advanced before there are obvious symptoms or lesions. Over 30,000 people are diagnosed with oral cancer each year and it’s not always who you would think. About half of them have no history of tobacco use.

Treatment for oral cancer usually involves surgery and radiation. Many of the surgeries are disfiguring. Add to that the high mortality rate and it is clear this is something you want to catch early.

Oral cancer exams are quick, easy, and usually included as part of your regular dental check up. Just one more reason to see your dentist regularly.

(714) 996-1080 Fullerton, CA

We are Mercury Free – Are You?

richardneufelddds — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:07:56 +0000

Did you know that silver fillings are 50% mercury? A large filling may contain as much mercury as a thermometer. When you chew, the mercury vapor is released from your fillings into your mouth. It has no odor or taste. When you inhale, the mercury vapor is absorbed into your bloodstream easily.

Mercury is a powerful toxin. Studies show that it is more poisonous than arsenic or lead. It accumulates in your body over time and no amount of mercury exposure can be considered harmless. Mercury is linked to many major illnesses and diseases including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, mental illness, and auto –immune conditions.

You can be free of dental mercury by having your silver fillings replaced. There are special protocols available to remove them safely without exposing you to toxins. We follow the guidelines recommended by IAOMT.

The government says silver fillings must be handled as hazardous waste. We have better materials available now and it doesn’t make sense to use them anymore. That is why our office has been mercury free for years.

To learn more about having your silver fillings removed safely, call (714) 996-1080 Fullerton, CA

Pros & Cons of Metal Free Dentistry

richardneufelddds — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 01:31:39 +0000

Pros:

Beautiful, translucent, natural looking
Best materials for smile makeovers
Do not conduct electricity
Excellent option for those with sensitivities, allergies, or concerns about metals

Cons:

Higher fracture risk than gold – about the same as natural teeth
May wear into or fracture opposing teeth

Snore Guards: You & Your Spouse Can Enjoy a Quiet Night’s Sleep

richardneufelddds — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 02:37:34 +0000

We all understand the value of a good night’s sleep. We feel better and are more alert. Studies even show that sleeping well can improve our health and longevity. Snoring can keep us and those around us awake, preventing these benefits. Several of our patients have shared that their spouses even had to move into separate bedrooms. Fortunately, we have a solution.

Snore guards are dental appliances that you wear while you sleep to prevent snoring. It is important to have snore guards professionally fitted by your dentist. What people don’t realize is that if they are not properly adjusted your bite can be affected, resulting in TMJ joint problems, discomfort, or your teeth being out of balance.

Our patients are grateful for their snore guards and the quiet sleep they enjoy. If snoring is a problem for you or your spouse, you do not need to suffer without sleep anymore. Talk to your dentist or come in to see us for a consultation to see if a snore guard is right for you. (714) 996-1080 Fullerton, CA

Cosmetic Dentistry: Start Smiling with Confidence

richardneufelddds — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 01:52:28 +0000

This is the year to get the smile you have always wanted. Being able to smile with confidence is not just about having nice looking teeth. It improves the possibilities for your social and professional success as well as increases your self-esteem.

It’s time to let go of:

Crooked or uneven teeth
Mottled looking teeth
Permanent stains
Worn down teeth
Extra or uneven spaces
Yellow or discolored teeth
Teeth that are chipped or broken

It’s time to bring on that big, beautiful smile you have always dreamed of.

And, we can help. Call (714) 996-1080 for a free cosmetic evaluation. Fullerton, CA

Dr. Neufeld & His Team Wish You & Yours Happy Holidays

richardneufelddds — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 02:49:23 +0000

Quotes that Make Us Smile

richardneufelddds — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 18:56:09 +0000

A smile is a curve that sets everything straight. ~Phyllis Diller

The world always looks brighter from behind a smile. ~Author Unknown

A smile is an inexpensive way to change your looks. ~Charles Gordy

Everyone smiles in the same language. ~Author Unknown

The shortest distance between two people is a smile. ~Author Unknown

Wear a smile and have friends; wear a scowl and have wrinkles. ~George Eliot