Evergreen Dental Care - Alhambra CA Dental Tips

The Scoop on Saliva

Dr. Richard Chang — Tue, 15 May 2012 23:29:24 +0000

The average person produces about 25,000 quarts of saliva in their lifetime which is the equivalent of 2 full swimming pools. Why do we need so much liquid in our mouths? Here’s the scoop:

Saliva provides minerals that support the enamel of our teeth
It lubricates our food and helps us swallow
It rinses food particles off our teeth
Saliva has antibacterial compounds that help prevent infection
It contains enzymes that aid digestion and oral health
It is similar to blood and can often be used for medical diagnosis

Saliva is obviously important to your oral health. If you start to experience a dry mouth or lessening of saliva, be sure to let your dentist know. They may be able to recommend something that will help or want to see you more often to prevent an outbreak of serious cavities.

If you are in the Alhambra, CA area, we would love to help. Call (626) 285-0285

Sedation Dentistry is Not Just for People Afraid of the Dentist

Dr. Richard Chang — Wed, 02 May 2012 00:47:09 +0000

Oral sedation dentistry is best known for helping fearful dental patients take care of their oral health without fear or anxiety. It is safe, effective, and really works. But, fear is not the only reason you might want to think about it.

There are other benefits of sedation dentistry you may not be aware of. Large amounts of dental treatment can be completed comfortably, often in just one appointment. This is very beneficial if you find it difficult to take time off work or have a large treatment plan to complete.

Sedation dentistry is a great solution if you have been challenged by gagging during dental visits, difficulty holding your mouth open, or teeth that are difficult to numb. It can also make dental appointments easier for people with disabilities. Even if you don’t have a special reason, oral sedation can help you have a relaxed and peaceful dental experience.

To find out if you are a candidate for sedation dentistry: Call (626) 285-0285 and schedule a consultation with Dr. Richard Chang in Alhambra, CA.

Dr. Chang’s Tips for People Who Have Difficulty Handling a Toothbrush

Dr. Richard Chang — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 00:56:39 +0000

Most people take the ability to hold a toothbrush and brush their teeth for granted. But for many, it is not that easy. Disabilities, special needs, and getting older, can all make it difficult to keep our mouths clean and healthy.

If you or a loved one is challenged by a weak grip or limited mobility, we are hoping these tips will help:

Use a rubber band to attach and hold the toothbrush in the hand
Tape a rubber ball, sponge, or other item to the brush to make it easier to grip
Attach a wooden dowel, ruler, or similar item to make the toothbrush longer
Use a high quality electric toothbrush
See the dentist and hygienist frequently, even monthly if needed

Wise Words about Smiles

Dr. Richard Chang — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 16:00:39 +0000

“Peace begins with a smile.” Mother Teresa
“A winning smile makes winners of us all.” Chinese Proverb
“A warm smile is the universal language of kindness.” Unknown
“A smile is happiness you’ll find right under your nose.” Tom Wilson
“A smile confuses an approaching frown.” Author Unknown
“People seldom notice old clothes if you wear a big smile.” Mildon
“A smile is a curve that sets everything straight.” Phyllis Diller
“The world always looks brighter from behind a smile.” Unknown
“Smile, it is the key that fits the lock of everybody’s heart.” Anthony D’Angelo

Seeing the Dentist Before Pregnancy Can Help You Protect Your Baby

Dr. Richard Chang — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 01:40:14 +0000

The mercury in silver dental fillings, also called amalgams, is toxic and dangerous. Research has shown that when a mother has silver fillings there is mercury in both her breast milk and the cord blood of the infant. Babies are being exposed to mercury before they are even born. Mercury is also linked to miscarriages and premature birth. For this reason, many women of child bearing years are choosing to have their silver fillings changed to more biocompatible materials before trying to become pregnant. When doing this, it is important to choose a dentist who follows special guidelines to remove the mercury fillings safely.

Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is a chronic bacterial infection that can get into the blood stream easily. While we do not know all of the consequences to babies when their mothers have this condition, we do know it is associated with premature birth and low birth weight infants.

If you are thinking of having a baby, call your dentist. When you take care of your own oral health, you are also protecting your future little one.

Dr. Richard Chang, DDS and his team in Alhambra, Ca offer safe mercury filling removal and screening and treatment for periodontal disease. Come on in and get your pre-pregnancy check up.

Call: (626) 285-0285

8 Reasons to Choose a Holistic Dentist

Dr. Richard Chang — Thu, 08 Mar 2012 17:55:00 +0000

He respects that any treatment he provides can impact the total health of the patient
Does not use silver amalgam fillings that contain the toxin mercury
Is trained in special protocols for removing silver mercury fillings
Uses bio-compatible materials that are considered safe
Recognizes that each individual and how they respond to dentistry is unique
Has special equipment, training, and knowledge
Understands that oral health has a direct impact on the entire body
Belongs to organizations that focus on science, research, and holistic approaches

For Holistic Dentistry in Alhambra, CA – Call (626) 285-0285

Strange Toothache Remedies from the Past

Dr. Richard Chang — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 17:41:32 +0000

We are lucky that dentistry has evolved over the centuries. When we have a tooth problem we can go to the dentist and receive treatment that really works. That wasn’t the case in earlier times.

It was commonly believed that toothaches were caused by a tooth worm and there were many unusual remedies and cures. Here are a few you may not want to try:

Place tobacco in your armpit
Kill a mouse and hold it on the aching tooth
Lick a toad’s belly
Catch a frog under a full moon and spit in its mouth
Take a tooth from a corpse and wear it around your neck
Boil earthworms in oil and pour into the ear on the side of the toothache.

If you would prefer more technologically advanced dental care and a preventive approach, give us a call.

(626) 285-0285 Alhambra, CA

Can a Lollipop Prevent Cavities?

Dr. Richard Chang — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 02:07:44 +0000

A recent study demonstrated that lollipops containing sweet licorice root extract dramatically decreased the bacteria that cause tooth decay.

A group of children ages 2-5 were given the sugar free, orange flavored lollipops for 10 minutes twice a day over a period of three weeks. Saliva tests showed that the cavity causing bacteria were greatly reduced and continued to be for 22 weeks after.

While more research needs to be done, this is promising news. Dental decay is one of the most common childhood diseases, affecting about 50% of children between 5 and 17 years old. Being able to apply a preventive measure in a way that kids will easily comply with has the potential for creating a positive shift in the dental health of children. It also opens the door for possible solutions for cavity prone adults and the disabled.

Until then – brushing, flossing, eating a healthy diet, and regular dental check-ups are still the best way to keep our children’s smiles healthy.

(626) 285-0285 Alhambra, CA

Silver Dental Fillings with Mercury Can Be Removed Safely

Dr. Richard Chang — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 01:57:58 +0000

Even when people are aware of the dangers of silver fillings with mercury they may hesitate to have them removed. They are concerned about disturbing the fillings and exposing themselves to large doses of mercury vapor. This puts them in a no win situation of fearing both the existing mercury in their mouths and the treatment that will free them of it.

We feel bad when we talk to people in this situation. Websites that recommend leaving mercury amalgam fillings alone neglect to inform patients that there are proven ways they can be removed safely.

Dr. Richard Chang of Evergreen Dental has studied these methods and follows the guidelines recommended by IAOMT. These guidelines are based on research and backed by science. Our office is dedicated to the safety of our patients and that includes helping them become mercury free.

If you would like more information, call us at (626) 285-0285 Alhambra, CA

You may also be interested in information available at: http://iaomt.com

Smile with Confidence – Live with Confidence

Dr. Richard Chang — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 22:54:33 +0000

One of the first things people notice about you is your smile. A big confident smile makes you look more attractive, approachable, and actually increases your chances for success. It is also true that feeling good about your smile and sharing it with the world will help you feel more confident and happy.

Tight lipped smiles that try to hide teeth send a more negative message. You may seem less capable or approachable. How you feel about your smile could hold you back socially and professionally. When you don’t feel confident about the way you look your self-esteem often takes a hit.

Don’t let your smile keep you from the success you deserve. We can turn the smile you want to hide into one you want to share. And, when you can smile with confidence, you can live with confidence.

Cosmetic dentistry is not just about teeth – it’s about your life!

We would love to help you feel good about your smile.

Call (626) 285-0285 for a complimentary consultation.

Alhambra, CA.