Thursday, December 27, 2012

New Year Resolutions Abound!



We hope that each of you had a very Merry Christmas!  It's hard to believe that the New Year is right around the corner. While you are pondering on some New Year's Resolutions you might want to consider what your teeth would ask for this coming year.  World Dental Health shares some great resolution ideas that will keep your mouth happy and your teeth where they belong!  Their article is entitled New Year Dental Resolutions, we think they are great ideas!  

A resolution is a promise or a commitment to yourself, that you will try to fulfill a goal.  Now one of the most important resolutions should contain the word “health” in it. Therefore, even if you can’t make sure that you will be able to buy a home next year, you can make sure that you will pay more attention to yourdental health.

Here is a list with a few suggestions for your New Year’s dental health resolution:

Promise to yourself that you will floss at least once a day
Even if you don’t like the dental floss, you should have to get used to it. The dental floss helps eliminating all the food particles from in between your teeth, where the regular brush does not reach. This way you eliminate all harmful particles that could lead to tooth or gum damage.

Brushing your teeth twice a day
According to plenty of statistics many people do brush their teeth only one time per day. They tend to brush their teeth in the most “comfortable” period of the day- in the morning or before going to bed.

Promise to yourself that there will be no excuses that you are in a huge hurry and instead of brushing you will just take a pocketful of mints in the morning. Also, you can’t be sleepy enough to forget about brushing your teeth before going to bed. Brushing twice a day…keeps the dentist drill away!

Respect those regular dental cleanings
Your insurance does not cover 100% for two dental cleanings per year without a reason. Don’t get mistaken, it is not that the insurer wants you to stay healthy, but it is because the insurer wants to avoid at all costs having to cover for expensive dental treatments.

Try to look at the issue from your point of view- by respecting those regular dental cleanings you will keep away gum disease, bad breath from too much plaque deposit, and other infections and dental problems.

One dental checkup every year…at least
Regardless of whether you have got visible cavities or not. The dental checkup is not meant for the dentist to actually see what you already can: badly stained teeth, a huge cavity or gum disease.

The main purpose is to catch the earliest possible every single dental problem. This will save you time and money- and you will have good oral hygiene at all times.

We hope your New Year will be filled with wonderful experiences and many happy days.  Remember that a goal written down has a greater chance of being reached than if you just "wish it" to happen.  We would love to help you schedule your cleaning appointments or sit down with you for a free consultation in regards to the work that you need or would like done. Together we can strive for a life-long dental health.

Happy New Year!
Dr. Clark & His Team

Call us to schedule your cleanings 

 for next year! 

(541) 451-1440



Wednesday, December 19, 2012

The Gift of Self


Do you struggle with finding the "perfect gift" for those on your list?  We recently read an article entitled "The Twelve Gifts of Self" written by Carolyn Warnemuende, M.S.  If asked, I think the majority of our loved ones would love more of "us" more than a physical gift on Christmas morning.  Our busy lives tend to take us away from our loved ones more often than not.  We hope you find some great information from today's blog post, we certainly did.

     I love the holidays. Part of what makes them special is that from the time my children were young I have kept them relatively simple. If I overdo I become stressed. Life doesn't feel very good and I’m not much fun to be with. When I keep material gifts to a few, select only those activities that will truly bring joy, and prepare easy-to-make holiday meals, the season is joyful for both my family and for me.
Recently I went through my files and found a handout copied on bright red paper titled “The Twelve Gifts of Self.” I have no idea where it came from or who initially wrote it since no author was identified. Reading through it I knew I wanted to share the ideas with The Informed Parent readers.
1.     The Gift of Time -This month I offer these twelve suggestions, conceived by someone else, and with my description of what they mean for our children.Our time is valuable. We need to make wise choices about how we use the twenty-four hours a day allotted to us. When we offer the gift of time, we are saying to others that they are important to us. When we give the gift of undivided time to our children, they become less demanding and needy.
2.     The Gift of a Good Example.
Our children learn by watching us. When we speak kindly, behave honorably, and respect others, we teach our children the art of being compassionate human beings.
3.     The Gift of Acceptance.
Acceptance is an act of respect. When people are accepted for who they are, they usually rise to becoming their highest and best self.
4.     The Gift of Seeing the Best in People.
When we look for the best in others, they tend to bring forth those qualities. Our children want to please us. By seeing and acknowledging their best, they will act from that place.
5.     The Gift of Privacy.
Each person needs both physical and personal space. By respecting our children’s need for privacy, they often become more forthright in sharing information with us.
6.     The Gift of Self-Esteem.
When we use the effective parenting tools advocated in The Informed Parent, we foster positive self-esteem in our children.
7.     The Gift of Giving Up a Bad Habit.
When we are willing to commit to giving up a bad habit, we serve as role models to our children. We demonstrate through our behavior, that people can change.
8.     The Gift of Self-Disclosure.
When we willingly share our feelings and thoughts with others in a positive way, we give them the opportunity to truly know who we are.
9.     The Gift of Helping Someone Learn Something New.
Everyone has something they want to learn. When we help others learn something new, we are investing in their future happiness. When we assist in our children’s learning process, we are also creating memories.
10. The Gift of Listening.
Listening with our full attention and without judgment may be the best gift we can give to another. When we really listen to our children and reflect back to them what we have heard, we open the door to deeper and more intimate communication.
11. The Gift of Fun.
Building times of fun into family life creates memories. Simple fun like hiking, playing games, or going on a picnic need not take lots of time. For activities to feel fun, they need to be relaxed and easy for everyone. Find time each week to have fun with your children.
12. The Gift of Letting Others Give to Us.
When we let others give to us, we give them the gift of joy. Most of us have felt the anticipation of having someone open a gift we have carefully chosen for them, or watch for their enthusiasm when we offer to help them with a task. Whether someone gives us a material gift, a gift of time, or another gift of self, we honor them and add to their happiness by graciously receiving it.

We look forward to finding ways to give a little more of "us" this year instead of something we can wrap in a box.  After all it is the gift of self that people will remember more than something that can grow old or break.

Have a great week!
Dr. Clark & Team

Make sure you have your cleanings 
scheduled for next year! 
(541) 451-1440



Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Are You Feeling It?


Sometimes no matter how much we plan we can find ourselves feeling worn out or overwhelmed particularly at this time of the year.  It is our hope that if you find yourself in this category you take a moment to rest and regroup.  The Mayo Clinic has a great article on coping with stress and depression during the holidays.  If you find any of these tips helpful feel free to share with those you love.
Stress and depression can ruin your holidays and hurt your health. Being realistic, planning ahead and seeking support can help ward off stress and depression.
The holiday season often brings unwelcome guests — stress and depression. And it's no wonder. The holidays present a dizzying array of demands — parties, shopping, baking, cleaning and entertaining, to name just a few.
But with some practical tips, you can minimize the stress that accompanies the holidays. You may even end up enjoying the holidays more than you thought you would.
Tips to prevent holiday stress and depression
When stress is at its peak, it's hard to stop and regroup. Try to prevent stress and depression in the first place, especially if the holidays have taken an emotional toll on you in the past.
1.     Acknowledge your feelings. If someone close to you has recently died or you can't be with loved ones, realize that it's normal to feel sadness and grief. It's OK to take time to cry or express your feelings. You can't force yourself to be happy just because it's the holiday season.
2.     Reach out. If you feel lonely or isolated, seek out community, religious or other social events. They can offer support and companionship. Volunteering your time to help others also is a good way to lift your spirits and broaden your friendships.
3.     Be realistic. The holidays don't have to be perfect or just like last year. As families change and grow, traditions and rituals often change as well. Choose a few to hold on to, and be open to creating new ones. For example, if your adult children can't come to your house, find new ways to celebrate together, such as sharing pictures, emails or videos.
4.     Set aside differences. Try to accept family members and friends as they are, even if they don't live up to all of your expectations. Set aside grievances until a more appropriate time for discussion. And be understanding if others get upset or distressed when something goes awry. Chances are they're feeling the effects of holiday stress and depression, too.
5.     Stick to a budget. Before you go gift and food shopping, decide how much money you can afford to spend. Then stick to your budget. Don't try to buy happiness with an avalanche of gifts. Try these alternatives: Donate to a charity in someone's name, give homemade gifts or start a family gift exchange.
6.     Plan ahead. Set aside specific days for shopping, baking, visiting friends and other activities. Plan your menus and then make your shopping list. That'll help prevent last-minute scrambling to buy forgotten ingredients. And make sure to line up help for party prep and cleanup.
7.     Learn to say no. Saying yes when you should say no can leave you feeling resentful and overwhelmed. Friends and colleagues will understand if you can't participate in every project or activity. If it's not possible to say no when your boss asks you to work overtime, try to remove something else from your agenda to make up for the lost time.
8.     Don't abandon healthy habits. Don't let the holidays become a free-for-all. Overindulgence only adds to your stress and guilt. Have a healthy snack before holiday parties so that you don't go overboard on sweets, cheese or drinks. Continue to get plenty of sleep and physical activity.
9.     Take a breather. Make some time for yourself. Spending just 15 minutes alone, without distractions, may refresh you enough to handle everything you need to do. Take a walk at night and stargaze. Listen to soothing music. Find something that reduces stress by clearing your mind, slowing your breathing and restoring inner calm.
10.  Seek professional help if you need it. Despite your best efforts, you may find yourself feeling persistently sad or anxious, plagued by physical complaints, unable to sleep, irritable and hopeless, and unable to face routine chores. If these feelings last for a while, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional.
Take control of the holidays
Don't let the holidays become something you dread. Instead, take steps to prevent the stress and depression that can descend during the holidays. Learn to recognize your holiday triggers, such as financial pressures or personal demands, so you can combat them before they lead to a meltdown. With a little planning and some positive thinking, you can find peace and joy during the holidays.
We hope you have a wonderful time this holiday season!  Share that holiday cheer by simply sharing your beautiful smile!

Dr. Clark & Team


Wednesday, December 5, 2012

Working Together for Life-long Health - Article 2


“They say old bankers never die. They just lose interest!”
(another one of Dr Clark’s many  “wise old sayings”)

Whatever you do during your advancing years, DON’T LOSE INTEREST IN YOUR TEETH!  We don’t have to lose teeth as we advance in maturity!  This is another post to help us all keep our teeth and gums healthy, attractive, functional and comfortable. A healthy mouth can help us have a long and healthy life.

Problem: Bad Breath 
Believe me when I say there are many people who have bad breath. Bad breath can be socially awkward, but is also a warning sign of more serious problems. 

Experts say that the strong odor of bad breath is hydrogen sulfide gas, the same gas used in chemical warfare during WWII.  I can be hazardous to your health to breath that 24/7. 

Causes:  
Of course, bad breath can be caused by the foods you eat.  Food left on your between teeth, on your gums and tongue for a long time can ferment giving off a foul odor.  Smoking and other forms of tobacco are also obvious causes.  

Tooth decay and gum disease can also lead to conditions where odors are a result. 

I have often been heard to say, “Bad breath is better than no breath at all!”

Let’s not give in to bad breath!


What YOU can do:
  1. Bad Breath:  I personally use over-the-counter Smart Mouth - 12 hour mouth rinse.  We have samples of this product in our office.
  2. Again...Be sure to keep your teeth extra clean, especially along the gum lines and between the teeth. Also brushing your tongue will help prevent bad breath.
  3. The most important time to clean your mouth is just before bed.
   How WE can help:
  1. Smart mouth 12 hour mouth rinse – we offer larger bottles than are available in retail stores at a lower cost per ounce.
  2. Regular In office professional cleanings and check-ups can detect and remove accumulations that release objectionable odors.
  3. Gum disease is one of the worst sources of halitosis!  We are on the leading edge of treatment and prevention of gum infections.
You do not need to be embarrassed or limited by bad breath!

Call us today to schedule a free consultation!

(541) 451-1440 or 

TEXT us at 541.6DC.DDS2

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

The Clock is Ticking!

Believe it or not, November is almost over.  This year seems to have flown by!  It seems like the end of the year is always accompanied with a to do list that is longer than there is time left.  We hope this blog post will help you consider a few things that you might have forgotten.

For many companies this is open enrollment time for health benefits.  As a matter of fact many of you may be involved in that process right now with your current employer.  There seem to be many choices available to us but seldom do we fully comprehend how these benefits work in our favor.  We'd like to discuss a few items today to help you make your year end decisions.

Yearly Maximum

Insurance companies will pay a portion of your medical expenditures each year according to your policy limits.  Are you aware that these benefits will not roll to next year?  We never want our patients to be in a position that they lose benefits because they thought they could "put it off until next year."  Dental insurance is largely a use it or lose it policy.

Deductible

"Out with the old, in with the new" seems to be an appropriate motto for a new year right?  Pertaining to some things that motto works well, but starting over with a new deductible can be a painful experience for many families.  Make sure you understand what your deductible is so that you will not be surprised when your insurance company doesn't pay as much as you thought they would come bill time.

Insurance Fees

We spoke of Open Enrollment earlier; a new year can bring a new policy with different co pays or fees attached. While insurance policies aren't the most exciting reading material, taking the time to know what is being covered can save a lot of frustration down the road.  Each spouse should read and understand all policies you subscribe to.  Because you may not know what fees could be coming with a new policy it might be a good idea to come see us as soon as possible this year and take care of pending dental issues now.

Emergencies

You might be surprised how many end of the year parties and festivities are missed because of a dental emergency.  Most dental emergencies can be prevented if you stay up on your regular exams and dental cleanings.  Avoid a dental emergency this holiday season by using your benefits now.

DON'T WASTE YOUR HARD EARNED BENEFITS!  Every year thousands of dollars of unused benefits to go waste because people simply don't take the time to use them.  We would hate to see your benefits be wasted, please give us a call today and let us help you find out how to get the most out of your dental insurance.

We look forward to hearing from you very soon!
(541) 451-1440 or TEXT us at 541.6DC.DDS2

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

You Have a Cold, Why Do Your Teeth Hurt?


It's not uncommon during cold and flu season for us to receive a call from a patient who is experiencing painful symptoms in their teeth while at the same time they are suffering from a head cold.  There was a great article from massdental.org explaining the correlation between these two symptoms.

"You’re sniffling, coughing, and sneezing, and your sinuses feel as if they've gone on strike. You have a cold, or worse, the flu. As if that’s not bad enough, now your teeth are starting to ache. How can that be? Is there a connection between what’s going on with your drippy nose and your teeth? And is there anything you can do to ease the pain when your teeth have a “cold”?

The common cold is an acute infection of the upper respiratory tract caused by one or more of several viruses. Symptoms of the common cold may vary depending on the part of the respiratory tract involved, but almost all patients have nasal discharge, nasal congestion, and a sore throat.  Some patients may complain of fatigue and cough; other less-common symptoms include fever, headache, earache, and sensitive teeth.
In some cases, the common cold is brought on by a virus that causes a sinus infection. Symptoms of a
sinus infection are headache and severe pain localized in the region of the involved sinus. However, the roots
of the upper premolars and molars, along with the nerves supplying these structures, are in proximity to
the upper sinus. This relationship explains why dental symptoms are frequently associated with upper jaw sinus disease. The upper teeth close to the infected sinus also often ache, feel elongated, and are sensitive to pressure."

Alleviating toothache pain associated with the common cold or a sinus infection is possible.  We've discussed at length the importance of good oral hygiene habits; these include brushing at least twice a day, flossing every day and using a mouth rinse like Smart mouth will all improve your ability to fight off toothache pain.  

As you choose to eat healthy foods you strengthen your body's ability to fight off viruses faster.  If your teeth hurt during your sinus infection you can eat soft foods and avoid extreme temperatures in your food choices.  Often antibiotics are prescribed with sinus infections along with antihistamine usage.  May we suggest that you increase your water intake simultaneously.  Your body will be able to rid itself of the virus or infection easier and the water will keep your body's fluids loose and flowing.  This can cut down on the toothache pain as well.

Please feel free to call us if you are 
experiencing intense toothache pain due 
to a sinus infection or cold.

(541) 451-1440 or 

TEXT us at 541.6DC.DDS2


Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Working Together for Life-long Dental Health


“Be true to your teeth or they will be 
false to you!”
(one of Dr Clark’s many  “wise old sayings”)

NO!  We don’t have to lose teeth as we advance in maturity!  During the coming weeks I will provide a series of postings to help us keep our teeth and gums healthy, attractive, functional and comfortable. A healthy mouth can help us have a long and healthy life.

High Risk Problem: Dry mouth. 
Many more mature people have this challenge. But anyone with dry mouth can benefit from this discussion.
Dry mouth can cause a dramatic increase in both tooth decay and gum disease. This is because the acid produced by plaque does not get diluted or neutralized by saliva flowing over your teeth and gums.  

Causes: Dry mouth can be caused by a number of different factors. Medications, mouth breathing/snoring, CPAP devices, alcohol containing mouth washes, alcohol consumption, smoking, and high speed travel with your mouth open (ha,ha).  

What YOU can do:
1. Dry mouth products: I personally use over-the-counter Biotene products. I recommend their PBF Tooth paste and mouth wash, moisturizing spray, and moisturizing gel to apply to teeth and gums as needed and before sleeping. We sometimes have samples of these products.
2. Be sure to keep your teeth extra clean, especially along the gums and between the teeth. The most important time to clean your teeth is just before bed.  Most people have less saliva while sleeping so remaining bacteria and food debris do more damage at night.  
3. Choose xylitol containing: fluoride toothpaste, candy, and sugar replacements.
4. Use only alcohol free mouth washes. Smart mouth 12 hour breath rinse fights tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath.

How WE can help:
1. NEW!  We are now offering a series of low cost chemical treatments to arrest cavities that have started and kill off the bacteria which cause cavities.  This can decrease sensitivity and buy you some time to complete your needed dental treatments.
2. Smart mouth 12 hour mouth rinse – we offer larger bottles than are available in retail stores at a lower cost per ounce.
3. In office and at home fluoride varnish treatments.  We now use a fluoride varnish which lasts longer by sticking to your teeth in the areas where you most need it.
4. Regular professional cleanings and checkups to detect problems early.

We look forward to helping you overcome some simple
 challenges now, so that your future is bright and your teeth
 are strong!

Call us today to schedule a free consultation!

(541) 451-1440 or 

TEXT us at 541.6DC.DDS2



Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Five Habits That Destroy Your Teeth

In October the Academy of General Dentistry spokesperson Steven A. Ghareeb, DDS, FAGD, offered advice on how to keep your smile healthy by avoiding five bad oral health habits. We've discussed these at length in previous posts but a refresher is always good.  Please take a minute to quiz yourself and your family and see where you can improve.

CHICAGO (October 2, 2012)—Academy of General Dentistry spokesperson Steven A. Ghareeb, DDS, FAGD, offers advice on how to keep your smile healthy and pretty by avoiding these five bad oral health habits.

1. Not flossing
Brushing your teeth twice a day is important, but many patients don’t realize that flossing at least once a day is just as critical to achieving—and maintaining—a healthy smile. Flossing removes the cavity-causing bacteria left behind from food particles that get stuck between teeth. “Although bleeding and irritation sometimes can occur when you first start flossing, it’s important to keep at it,” says Dr. Ghareeb. “Your gums will toughen up and your oral health will be better for it.”

2. Brushing too soon after eating
Consuming acidic foods and beverages, such as sports and energy drinks, citrus fruits, wine, and tomatoes, can erode tooth enamel—the glossy outer layer of the tooth. Brushing your teeth too soon after eating and drinking these items can cause more damage because you are essentially brushing the acid into the teeth, not getting rid of it. Instead, you should rinse your mouth with water after consuming acidic foods and beverages and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your pearly whites!

3. Not replacing your toothbrush often enough
Not only are old toothbrushes ineffective, but they also harbor harmful bacteria that can cause infections. Toothbrushes should be changed every three to four months. “It’s also important to change your toothbrush after you’ve had a cold,” says Dr. Ghareeb.

4. Excessively bleaching your teeth
Overzealous bleaching can cause your teeth to look unnaturally white and increase tooth sensitivity. Before using an at-home bleaching product, talk to your dentist. “He or she can advise you on proper use of these products as well as which type of bleaching system will provide you with the best results,” says Dr. Ghareeb.

5. Using a hard-bristled toothbrush
A hard-bristled toothbrush coupled with an aggressive brushing technique can cause irreversible damage to your gums. Use a soft toothbrush and gently brush your teeth at a 45-degree angle, in a circular motion. Using a back-and-forth, sawing motion causes the gums to recede, and can expose the root of the tooth, making teeth extremely sensitive.

So how did you do?  Is there room for improvement?  As the stores gear up to tempt you at every corner with candy and sticky treats, we hope you take extra time to make sure you are giving your teeth the protection they need.  Like we've said in the past, take care of your teeth today and they will take care of you tomorrow!

Call us today at (541) 451-1440 or 

TEXT us at 541.6DC.DDS2




Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Best and Worst Halloween Candy for Kids


The Academy of General Dentistry recently published and article entitled, "Best and Worst Halloween Candy Options for Children's Teeth".  This information will help you make better choices as you and your child sort through all of the candy they will receive.


CHICAGO (Oct. 15, 2012)—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.

Worst:
  •  Chewy/sticky sweets, such as gummy candies, taffy, and even dried fruit can be difficult for children and adults to resist, and even more difficult to remove from teeth. “These candies are a serious source of tooth decay, particularly when they get stuck in the crevices between teeth, making it nearly impossible for saliva to wash them away,” Dr. Sherwood says.
  •  Sour candies are highly acidic and can break down tooth enamel quickly. The good news: Saliva slowly helps to restore the natural balance of the acid in the mouth. Dr. Sherwood recommends that patients wait 30 minutes to brush their teeth after consuming sour/acidic candies; otherwise, they will be brushing the acid onto more tooth surfaces and increasing the risk of enamel erosion.
  • Sugary snacks, including candy corn, cookies, and cake, all contain high amounts of sugar, which can cause tooth decay.
Best:
  •  Sugar-free lollipops and hard candies stimulate saliva, which can help prevent dry mouth. “A dry mouth allows plaque to build up on teeth faster, leading to an increased risk of cavities,” Dr. Sherwood says.
  •  Sugar-free gum can actually prevent cavities as it not only dislodges food particles from between the teeth but also increases saliva—which works to neutralize the acids of the mouth and prevent tooth decay.
  • Dark chocolate and its antioxidants, according to some studies, can be good for the heart and may even lower blood pressure.
“Parents should closely monitor their children’s candy intake this Halloween—and all year round—and continue to promote good oral health habits,” Dr. Sherwood says. “Kids also should be brushing their teeth twice a day for two minutes.”

Make it a fun activity to sit down with your child and sort through their "loot" after Halloween. You can make picture categories your child is young or you can come up with a game that makes it easy.  It's best to consume candy with other foods and drink lots of water.  Make sure they are brushing at least twice a day.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to call.

Call us today at (541) 451-1440 or 

TEXT us at 541.6DC.DDS2





Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Tooth Loss - Are You at Risk?



The Academy of General Dentistry shares some insightful information regarding tooth loss:

Tooth loss, is when one or more teeth fall out or are extracted due to injury or disease such as mouth trauma, tooth decay or gum disease.

Kids, adults and seniors are all at risk for tooth loss, especially if proper oral hygiene is not practiced. Although tooth loss is typically associated with the elderly, research suggests that nearly 27 percent of patients experience their first tooth loss between the ages of 21 and 30. Tooth loss is expected to increase with aging baby boomers, perpetuating a phenomenon among a generation of people that saw their parents fall victim to tooth loss due to lack of dental care.
  • Kids:  As kids become more active, they are susceptible to two types of traumatic tooth loss premature loss of a baby tooth or loss of a permanent tooth due to injury or neglect. Children should wear protective mouth guards when playing sports, and parents should consult a dentist immediately in the case of an injury.
  • Adults: Most people do not know that gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults. Tooth loss is also linked to smoking, heart disease and diabetes.
  • Seniors: As people age, plaque accumulates and becomes harder to eliminate. Gum recession, older fillings and dry mouth put seniors at a higher risk of losing their natural teeth.

Educating yourself about the causes and consequences of tooth loss can prevent it from happening to you. Visiting the dentist for cleanings twice a year is an important step toward prevention. Improving oral hygiene habits at home by brushing and flossing daily is also key to preventing problems from developing. It is important to talk to your dentist about proper oral healthcare and other lifestyle changes that can improve the odds of keeping your natural teeth.

While it's understandable that decisions about replacing teeth can seem overwhelming at first, both from a psychological and financial standpoint, we want you to know we are here to help.

By scheduling a free consultation you can you can weigh the options and the pros and cons of replacement teeth or even learn more about our Laser Gum Therapy that has been proven to save teeth and regrow bone.  Dr. Clark has seen some amazing results with Laser Gum Therapy and is a leading expert in this treatment.

Dr. Clark is ready and willing to sit down with you and discuss the exciting options that are available.  He can help you set short-term and long-term goals which will enable you to have the healthiest mouth possible.

Give us a call today!

(541) 451-1440 or 

TEXT us at 541.6DC.DDS2