From the Mouth of Babes...

Picture Courtesy of MouthHealthy.org

As you know this month is National Children's Dental Health month and together we with the ADA we join the efforts in promoting healthy oral care habits in children.  The ADA says, "Teaching your child good oral hygiene habits early can lead to a lifelong healthy smile, but did you know that just because babies don’t have any visible teeth, doesn’t mean they can’t get cavities? A baby’s 20 primary teeth are already present in the jaws at birth. And those baby teeth that begin coming through the gums around 6 months help set the stage for future smiles by keeping space in the jaw for adult teeth."

How many adults do you know that suffer from the effects of poor oral hygiene in their younger years?  Taking care of your child's teeth now is like putting your money is a savings account.  It's a long term investment, with little risk, that will yield great dividends down the road.  Your children will follow your example when it comes to oral health care.  If toothbrushes, toothpaste and dental floss are readily available and you build them into your children's daily routine they will come to the point in their lives that a clean mouth becomes a desired habit.  Involving your children in purchasing those items can also get them excited about brushing and flossing.

We encourage you to bring your child in for their first dental appointment no later than their first birthday.  Visiting the dentist regularly is another way for them to build confidence in us, their dental care providers, and to create the lifelong habit of getting regular dental checkups and cleaning.  Back to the savings account, if you start early, the savings in the long run can be great.  We want to be part of your team,and help you give your children the best care they deserve.  We are behind you 100% in your efforts to keep your children healthy and happy!

Call to set up your child's 

checkup today!

(541) 451-1440

Join the Super Smile Team!

It's National Children's Dental Health Month in February and we are joining the ADA, American Dental Association in their effort to get the word out about encouraging early dental health habits in the lives of America's children.

The ADA is running a campaign this month inviting all children to join the Super Smile Team.  The idea is that they commit to brush their teeth for 2 minutes, twice daily.  Here is a fun poster showing their campaign.  

There are a lot of fun things you can do with your children to start them on their journey to great oral health care.  We suggest using a fun timer in the bathroom, taking them shopping for their new toothbrush, and also printing out a chart where they can track their efforts and progress.  

Watch this week for some fun printables on our Facebook and Google+ Page. If you haven't liked our Facebook page or looked at our Google+ Page we encourage you to do so.  We are always sharing great information to help you in your quest to stay healthy and happy!


Click here to print your child's Certificate for joining the Super Smile Team.

Call to schedule your annual 

cleaning exam today!

(541) 451-1440

Oral Healthcare Matters More Than You Think

Most of our patients are surprised when we teach them how poor oral hygiene can effect their entire body.

Have you considered that those bleeding gums mean you are 2xs likely to develop heart disease?  Did you know halitosis or bad breath has the same bacterial compounds found in rotten eggs?

Our bodies are amazing creations and if cared for properly, will give us many good years ahead. However these miraculous creations also come with an internal warning system and if the warning signs go unheeded we will be headed into a lot of trouble.

We encourage you to make the goal of staying consistent in your efforts with your oral healthcare. Many would never dream of dropping off a brand new car at the junk yard in hopes to exchange it for broken parts.  Don't treat your healthy mouth like that either. 

Take the time to brush, floss and get regular check ups for you and your loved ones this year.  Your overall health will thank you!

Call to schedule your dental 

cleaning today and receive an 

extra 10% off!

(541) 451-1440

Be You, Be True!

Shakespeare's quote, "To think own self be true..." carries a lot of truth and power. Beginning a new year causes each of us to reflect upon the last year, the choices we've made and the things we'd like to change.

With change comes great insight but we have to be careful to ask if the changes we are making are in tune with our true selves.  So many people today seem to be sucked into the falsehoods of media that seem to teach that you can never be happy with yourself.  The idea that you always need to "change" in order to be happier, richer, more popular etc. is freely promoted.  But if you stop and visit with someone that has been through many years in life they will tell you just the opposite.  True happiness comes from accepting yourself, serving others and loving those around you.  Happiness cannot be purchased. The more you give, the more you receive.

This year we challenge to you be true to who you really are and to not hold back the gifts and talents that are uniquely yours.  It is true that poor dental hygiene increases ones desire to hold back, to not smile and share openly with those around you. We can help you with these issues.  They are easily remedied.  We want you to feel confident in your ability to share with others and bless the lives of those who you come in contact with.

Start your new year out by honoring who you are and blessing your life with the gift of a healthy and happy smile.  The sky is the limit on the things you can do this year.  It is all up to you!  We would love to be part of the process of making this year the best it can be.

Call today to receive 10% off all dental services!  Dr. Clark would be more than happy to review what oral health needs you may have and help you devise a plan that will work with your budget.  Don't hold back any longer, now's the time to share everything that you have to share.

Call to schedule your New Year Exam!

(541) 451-1440  

Wisdom Behind the Wisdom Teeth

So what is the truth behind wisdom teeth?  We get this question asked quite often, but surprisingly most patients don't understand much about wisdom teeth.

Did you know that your wisdom teeth typically come in between the ages of 17 and 25?  They begin forming around your 10th birthday but we usually don't see eruption until your late teens or early 20s. 

Some of our patients never have their wisdom teeth come in, however for those that do, the number of wisdom teeth can range from one to four that actually erupt to the surface, or show signs of eruption but are stuck or impacted in the gum line. If left untreated it can lead to all kinds of problems. The most typical problems we see are tooth crowding, or movement or displacement of your permanent teeth.  Occasionally a cyst or infection can build around wisdom teeth in the soft gum tissue which can lead to the destruction of your bone resulting in permanent tooth loss.

If you stay up on your semi-annual exams, Dr. Clark will watch the progress of your wisdom teeth and will be able to warn you of potential issues long before damage occurs.  Treatment options vary for each patient so don't hesitate to ask about Dr. Clark's suggested treatment for you or for your child.

Do not delay in planning your best oral health care treatment plan.  This saves you time and money in the long run.

Call us today to schedule your appointment.  

(541) 451-1440

Affordable Cosmetic Fix for That Fabulous Smile

Veneers are ultra-thin shells of ceramic (porcelain) or a composite resin material, which are bonded to the front of teeth. This procedure requires little or no anesthesia and can be the ideal choice for improving the appearance of the front teeth. Veneers are placed to mask discolorations, to brighten teeth and to improve a smile.

Veneers are an excellent alternative to crowns in many situations. They provide a much more conservative approach to changing a tooth's color, size or shape. Veneers can mask undesirable defects, such as teeth stained by tetracycline and damage due to an injury or as a result of a root-canal procedure. They are ideal for masking discolored fillings in front teeth. Patients with gaps between their front teeth or teeth that are chipped or worn may consider veneers. Generally, veneers will last for many years, and the technique has shown remarkable longevity when properly performed.

Use up your year end Dental Insurance benefits before it's too late.  Call us to schedule your appointment today and take advantage of an additional 10% Savings!

Great Savings are waiting for you!

(541) 451-1440

Are Your Teeth Merry & Bright?

Teeth Whitening or Bleaching is a common and popular chemical process used to whiten teeth.  Some people get their teeth whitened to remove stains and others to simply lighten the shade of their teeth. Discoloration of teeth can be caused by medication, coffee, tea and cigarettes.  It can also be hereditary or by getting older.  Our normal day to day functions can expose our teeth to harmful acids and when not properly cared for, the enamel of the teeth erodes. Bleach kits can be purchased over the counter or in our dental office.  We will be more than happy to instruct you how to safely whiten your teeth.  It's amazing what a little procedure can do for your confidence!

Call us today to purchase a bleach kit for you or for the whole family!

(541) 451-1440