Evergreen Dental Care - Alhambra CA Dental Tips » dental http://blog.drteeth.com Setting the Standard for Trusted Dental Excellence Wed, 01 Feb 2012 02:07:44 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.8.5 en hourly 1 10 Reasons to Stop Eating Sugar http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/11/10-reasons-to-stop-eating-sugar/ http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/11/10-reasons-to-stop-eating-sugar/#comments Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:58:20 +0000 Dr. Richard Chang http://blog.drteeth.com/?p=71
  • Cavities
  • Diabetes
  • Weight gain – obesity
  • Speeds the aging process
  • Suppresses the immune system
  • Can contribute to osteoporosis
  • Over-stresses the pancreas and kidneys
  • Can cause headaches and migraines
  • Increases bad bugs like yeast in the digestive tract
  • Interferes with absorption of calcium and magnesium
    • ]]>     http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/11/10-reasons-to-stop-eating-sugar/feed/ 0     What are the Benefits of Having Straight Teeth? http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/10/what-are-the-benefits-of-having-straight-teeth/ http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/10/what-are-the-benefits-of-having-straight-teeth/#comments Fri, 14 Oct 2011 18:13:00 +0000 Dr. Richard Chang http://blog.drteeth.com/?p=68 When most people think about straightening teeth they think about having a beautiful smile and how it will make them feel.  We agree.  Creating beautiful smiles is one of the most rewarding things that a dental team can do.  We know that when people are confident in their smiles it can change their lives.

    We are also excited about the way straightening crooked teeth contributes to the health and function of your dental system.  It is important that your teeth are aligned to balance the force on them and allow them to work together as they are meant to.  This protects the teeth so they last longer and can prevent issues like excessive clenching, grinding, or TMJ joint problems.

    Straight teeth are easier to keep clean.  Clean teeth are less likely to develop periodontal gum disease.  Because this disease contributes to conditions like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease, having straight teeth can help you have a longer and healthier life.

    Finally, when you have straight teeth you are much more likely to smile.  Smiling creates brain chemicals that improve your mood and health.  Smiles also make great gifts and affect the moods of others.  After all, Mother Teresa once said, “Peace begins with a smile.”

    If you or someone you know would benefit from having straighter teeth, we can help.  We offer both Fastbraces and Invisalign as orthodontic options.  Call:  (626) 285-0285  Alhambra, CA

    ]]>     http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/10/what-are-the-benefits-of-having-straight-teeth/feed/ 0     Is Your Dental Health Putting You at Risk for Stroke and Heart Disease? http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/10/is-your-dental-health-putting-you-at-risk-for-stroke-and-heart-disease/ http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/10/is-your-dental-health-putting-you-at-risk-for-stroke-and-heart-disease/#comments Wed, 05 Oct 2011 20:19:35 +0000 Dr. Richard Chang http://blog.drteeth.com/?p=64 You may be familiar with some of these risk factors for heart disease and stroke:

    1. Heredity
    2. Smoking
    3. Diabetes
    4. Alcohol consumption
    5. High cholesterol or blood pressure
    6. Lack of physical activity
    7. Inability to handle stress
    8. Chronic inflammation – like periodontal gum disease

    Chronic inflammation is the latest added to the list and continues to be highly researched.  One of the most common sources of chronic inflammation in your body is gum disease, also known as periodontal disease.

    Taking care of your dental health and seeing your dentist regularly is more important than ever.  If you have heart disease or are at risk for it, it is important to see a dentist who is proactive in treating inflammation and the dental issues that cause it.

    Evergreen Dental – Richard Chang, DDS

    Alhambra, CA – (626) 285-0285

    ]]>     http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/10/is-your-dental-health-putting-you-at-risk-for-stroke-and-heart-disease/feed/ 0     Conditions and Diseases Linked to Inflammation and Periodontal Gum Disease http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/09/conditions-and-diseases-linked-to-inflammation-and-periodontal-gum-disease/ http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/09/conditions-and-diseases-linked-to-inflammation-and-periodontal-gum-disease/#comments Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:29:43 +0000 Dr. Richard Chang http://blog.drteeth.com/?p=61 Research shows that inflammation contributes to many major, life threatening diseases.  Periodontal, or gum disease is one of the most common causes of chronic inflammation.  If you have gum disease or any of the following conditions, it is especially important for you to see your dentist regularly.

    Allergies, Alzheimer’s, Arthritis, Cancer, Depression, Diabetes, Digestive disorders, Fibromyalgia, Heart disease, Heart valve problems, Lupus, Multiple Sclerosis, Obesity, Osteoporosis, Pancreatitis, Parkinson’s, Psoriasis, Stroke, and more….

    Dr. Richard Chang can help you prevent and control periodontal gum disease.  For more information, call our Alhambra, CA office at: (626) 285-0285

    ]]>     http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/09/conditions-and-diseases-linked-to-inflammation-and-periodontal-gum-disease/feed/ 0     Common Diseases and Conditions Related to Mercury Toxicity http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/07/common-diseases-and-conditions-related-to-mercury-toxicity/ http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/07/common-diseases-and-conditions-related-to-mercury-toxicity/#comments Thu, 07 Jul 2011 19:59:49 +0000 Dr. Richard Chang http://blog.drteeth.com/?p=37 Alzheimer’s,  ALS, Arthritis, ADHD, Autism, Autoimmune diseases, Candida, Colitis, Crohns, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome,   Firbromyalgia, Kidney disease, Bipolar disorder, Irritable bowel syndrome, MS, Graves disease, Parkinson’s, Schizophrenia,  Scleroderma, Panic disorders, Anxiety, Lupus, OCD, Insomnia, Headaches, Tremors

    ]]>     http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/07/common-diseases-and-conditions-related-to-mercury-toxicity/feed/ 99     Flossing Can Be a Life Saver http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/06/flossing-can-be-a-life-saver/ http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/06/flossing-can-be-a-life-saver/#comments Wed, 15 Jun 2011 20:11:49 +0000 Dr. Richard Chang http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/06/flossing-can-be-a-life-saver/ Brushing your teeth is a very effective way of cleaning them, but there are areas that your tooth brush just can’t reach. Dental floss is used to wipe down the surfaces between your teeth and clean the areas your tooth brush misses. It only takes a couple minutes a day to floss thoroughly.

    If you are not flossing, there are areas of your teeth and gums that may never get cleaned. Bacteria create colonies that eventually become the infection known as periodontal or gum disease. Gum disease has been linked to diabetes, heart disease, and other serious medical conditions that can shorten your life.

    So, when we talk to you about flossing we are not just talking about teeth. We are talking about your health and the quality of your life. It’s simple. Are you ready to commit a couple minutes of your day to protect your teeth and health?

    If you would like help in learning to floss quickly and effectively, call us at (626) 285-0285 for an appointment.

    ]]>     http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/06/flossing-can-be-a-life-saver/feed/ 50     Tooth Regeneration: The Future for Repairing Cavities & Replacing Teeth http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/06/tooth-regeneration-the-future-for-repairing-cavities-replacing-teeth/ http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/06/tooth-regeneration-the-future-for-repairing-cavities-replacing-teeth/#comments Fri, 03 Jun 2011 02:59:32 +0000 Dr. Richard Chang http://blog.drteeth.com/?p=30 We all know that going to the dentist is not necessarily fun.  Many people even postpone or neglect their oral health because of their dental fears.  That is why we are excited about the new science of regenerating teeth. 

    • In France, scientists have created a gel that contains a hormone associated with bone regeneration.  They have been able to reverse cavities in mice by placing the gel next to cavity areas.  A month later the cavities were gone.
    • At Colombia University they have had some success growing teeth from stem cells. They began by growing tooth material and are now working on how to have the cells grow into complete teeth.

    In the future your teeth may be able to be repaired or replaced without the dental drill or injections. But, don’t delay your cavity treatment.  It will be years before these technologies are available.   Cavities are dangerous for your teeth and general health.  Removing the bacteria and decayed areas of the tooth and replacing them with existing dental materials is still the best treatment available.

    ]]>     http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/06/tooth-regeneration-the-future-for-repairing-cavities-replacing-teeth/feed/ 60     Dental Infections are Dangerous for Your Health http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/05/dental-infections-are-dangerous-for-your-health/ http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/05/dental-infections-are-dangerous-for-your-health/#comments Thu, 19 May 2011 01:07:04 +0000 Dr. Richard Chang http://blog.drteeth.com/?p=27 It may seem like a stretch to think that an infection or inflammation in your mouth can contribute to medical conditions like heart disease and diabetes, but research is proving it true.  

    Common infections in the mouth include periodontal gum disease, cavities, and the infections and abscesses that cause toothaches.  Each of these conditions causes inflammation and oxidative stress that can affect the rest of your body negatively.  Microscopic slides of dental plaque show multiple types of organisms swimming in your mouth, including bacteria.  The bacteria can get into your bloodstream easily through the thin tissue of your mouth and swallowing.   And, having infections or an imbalance of organisms in your mouth can drain your immune system. 

    It is even more important than you thought to pay attention to your oral health.  You can prevent and eliminate dental infections and other oral health problems by seeing your dentist and dental hygienist regularly.  Dentistry is about more than teeth.  It is about taking care of your medical health, too.

    ]]>     http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/05/dental-infections-are-dangerous-for-your-health/feed/ 58     Recommendations for Safe Silver Amalgam Mercury Filling Removal http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/05/recommendations-for-safe-silver-amalgam-mercury-filling-removal/ http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/05/recommendations-for-safe-silver-amalgam-mercury-filling-removal/#comments Wed, 11 May 2011 16:36:21 +0000 Dr. Richard Chang http://blog.drteeth.com/?p=21 If you have any concerns about the mercury in your silver fillings or illness related to mercury toxicity, it is important to have your fillings removed in a way that prevents further exposure to the toxin.  Dr. Chang is a member of the International Academy of Oral Medicine & Toxicology, which is one of the most respected organizations in this field.  The IAOMT recommendations for safe mercury filling removal include: 

    • Cover the skin and eye protection
    • Supplemental air/oxygen for the patient to breathe
    • High volume suction close to the tooth
    • Keep the filling cool and remove it in chunks
    • Air filtration throughout the office
    • Isolate the tooth with a rubber dam (now optional)
    • Protection for the dental team and office in general
    ]]>     http://blog.drteeth.com/2011/05/recommendations-for-safe-silver-amalgam-mercury-filling-removal/feed/ 1     Can brushing help you lose weight? http://blog.drteeth.com/2009/10/can-brushing-help-you-lose-weight/ http://blog.drteeth.com/2009/10/can-brushing-help-you-lose-weight/#comments Thu, 22 Oct 2009 18:23:30 +0000 Dr. Richard Chang http://blog.drteeth.com/?p=3 If you are trying to maintain a healthy weight you may want to try brushing. A study published in the Journal of the Japan Society for the Study of Obesity found that people who brush their teeth after every meal tend to remain slimmer than those who don’t brush as often. Japanese researchers discovered this effect when they compared the lifestyle habits of nearly 14,000 people whose average age was the mid-forties. They concluded that tooth brushing is a good health habit that could play a role in preventing obesity. I have long suggested brushing your teeth at least twice a day, accompanied by daily flossing, to help prevent the buildup of small amounts of food that attract and nourish bacteria. So if gingivitis, cavities, or bad breath weren’t enough of a reason to brush and floss, consider becoming a slimmer you!

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