SURF CITY DENTIST BLOGS

Researchers investigate ways to reduce COVID-19 risks in dental offices
Reprinted from UIC Today According to a study from the University of Illinois Chicago, adding a small amount of hydrogen peroxide to the water in ultrasonic scalers used to clean teeth can help mitigate the risk of spreading airborne diseases, including COVID-19, in clinical dental environments. Researchers from UIC’s College of Dentistry and College of […]

8 Bad Brushing Habits to Break in 2022
1. Not changing your brush enough The ADA recommends changing your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Not only does this keep the bristle in your brush effective, is also removes potential bacterial build up trapped in the broken down brush. Frayed and broken bristles won’t keep your teeth clean. 2. Rushing to be done Speed demons, […]
Are You Brushing Your Teeth Too Hard?
When it comes to brushing your teeth, is there such a thing as too much? Turns out yes and no. One of those misconceptions about brushing is harder is not better. The same can also be said of a water Pik. Too strong of a setting can actually damage your teeth and gums, leading to […]
What Are Periodontal Disease Symptoms?
Periodontal disease is a common dental condition that affects one out of every two American adults aged 30 and over. It’s the leading cause of tooth loss in adults in the developed world. But it is presently thought to beyond teeth, and have been linked to Alzheimer’s, rheumatoid arthritis, pancreatic cancer, diabetes, stroke, heart disease and […]
What is Deep Dental Cleaning?
A dental deep cleaning, sometimes referred to as gum therapy, is a treatment that cleans between the gums and teeth down to the roots. Like a regular cleaning, the hygienist or dentist will clean the tooth, gum line and sides of the teeth. However in a deep teeth cleaning, they continue to remove tartar buildup […]
4 Dental Do’s For Expectant Mothers
Wish you could go back in time to straighten your teeth? Good news: the ship hasn’t sailed for that dream just yet! More and more adults are heading to the orthodontist’s office to get the smile they’ve always wanted. If news about the topic or a passerby with braces has left you wanting to know […]
Teeth Polishing: Traditional vs. Prophy-Jet
When you schedule professional dental cleanings, you expect hands-on treatment and cleaning techniques. But, what happens when dentists begin using instruments that no longer require contact with your teeth to do their job? The results may surprise you! Today, more dentists are using Prophy-Jets, rather than traditional hand pieces to polish teeth. So, what is […]
The Buzz on Braces for Adults: 5 Things You Should Know
Wish you could go back in time to straighten your teeth? Good news: the ship hasn’t sailed for that dream just yet! More and more adults are heading to the orthodontist’s office to get the smile they’ve always wanted. If news about the topic or a passerby with braces has left you wanting to know […]
Tooth Reshaping: The Easy, Inexpensive Way to Lift Your Smile
Straightening and whitening your teeth can transform your smile, but sometimes, it takes one final step to get those pearly whites looking perfect. It’s called tooth reshaping (or dental contouring), and the good news is, it’s a quick, painless and cost-effective cosmetic procedure. If a chipped, pointed, overlapping or uneven tooth stands between you and […]
Have A Heart Problem? 9 Issues Your Dentist Needs To Know About
Heading to the dentist’s office with a heart-related issue? It’s important to tell your dentist about it! Your mouth and heart are linked in more ways than you might expect – and failing to inform him or her about cardiovascular problems could spell serious trouble. For your health and safety, be sure to let your […]
Nature vs. Nurture: Dental Problems Parents Pass Down To Children
Parents, in particular, want to know: does DNA predetermine dental health? It’s the classic nature vs. nurture question that dentists get asked often, but the answer doesn’t simply boil down to one or the other. The scary truth is that many dental problems are indeed “inherited”–but not from genetics alone! Harmful habits that run in […]
Ditch Discolored Fillings for These Newer, Lighter Options
Still flashing a bit of silver when you smile? Cavities can happen to anyone, but the whole world doesn’t have to know about them! If you’ve been living with old, discolored fillings, there’s never been a better time to have them replaced. Find out how new fillings can benefit more than your looks, and about […]
Understanding Dental Veneers
Have you ever looked in the mirror and wished you could enhance the color, shape, size, or length of your teeth to achieve your perfect smile? With veneers, you actually can! So, what exactly are veneers, what problems do they fix, what is the process for applying them and what advantages are associated with this […]
What’s New: Dental Advances You’ll Appreciate
Have you stepped inside a dentist’s office lately? What you find might surprise you. It’s not just the flat screen televisions in the waiting room and above the chair (though they are perks you can now find in many practices). Serious advances have made examinations and treatments more accurate, efficient and less painful than what […]
Xylitol: The Sweetener You and Your Dentist Will Love
Consider this a major score for your sweet tooth: dentists are taking back that hard and fast rule that gum and candy rot your teeth! A sweetener called Xylitol makes it possible to enjoy such treats guilt-free, while actually fighting cavities along the way. For those who have long kept the candy aisle off limits […]
Symptoms of dental and oral problems
Reprinted from Healthline.com You shouldn’t wait until you have symptoms to visit your dentist. Going to the dentist twice a year will usually allow them to catch a problem before you even notice any symptoms. If you experience any of the following warning signs of dental health issues, you should make an appointment to see […]
Facts about dental and oral health
Reprinted from Healthline.com Dental and oral health is an essential part of your overall health and well-being. Poor oral hygiene can lead to dental cavities and gum disease, and has also been linked to heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is a lifelong commitment. The earlier you learn proper oral hygiene […]
Older Adult Oral Health
Article and Image reprinted from cdc.gov Facts About Older Adult Oral Health By 2060, according to the US Census, the number of US adults aged 65 years or older is expected to reach 98 million, 24% of the overall population.1 Older Americans with the poorest oral health tend to be those who are economically disadvantaged, lack […]
Children’s Oral Health
Reprinted from CDC.GOV Overview Take Care of Your Teeth Thisactivity book (print only)pdf icon[PDF – 740 KB] pdf ico offers an interactive way for children to learn good oral health habits. It is recommended for children aged 3–8 years. Also available in: French pdf iconpdf icon[PDF—687 KB] Spanish pdf iconpdf icon[PDF—536 KB], and Tagalog pdf iconpdf icon[PDF—692 KB]. Cavities (also […]
Oral health: A window to your overall health
Reprinted from Mayoclinic.org Did you know that your oral health offers clues about your overall health — or that problems in your mouth can affect the rest of your body? Protect yourself by learning more about the connection between your oral health and overall health. What’s the connection between oral health and overall health? Like […]
Coronavirus and Dental Care
Dentistry and the global context If you’re scheduled to get your teeth cleaned soon, you’ll have to wait a while. That’s because the American Dental Association (ADA) and CDC are asking all dental offices to stop non-urgent visits and surgeries. That includes routine care from your dentist and orthodontist. This hold will last several weeks, maybe longer. This […]
The Best Ways to Whiten Your Teeth
The Best Ways to Whiten Your Teeth by Lauren West All of the current ‘teeth whitening in a box’ products may seem like a great, cost-effective idea, but are they the best option? We’ll go over each of them to decide which is truly the best and if they can hold up to getting your […]
The Buzz on Braces for Adults: 5 Things You Should Know
Wish you could go back in time to straighten your teeth? Good news: the ship hasn’t sailed for that dream just yet! More and more adults are heading to the orthodontist’s office to get the smile they’ve always wanted. If news about the topic or a passerby with braces has left you wanting to know […]
Fact or Fiction? Five Popular Tooth Myths Debunked
Forget the tooth fairy! Far too many tales are being told about teeth and it’s time to clear the air. Popular claims that range from scary to wacky and everything in between are about to be debunked. Find out if you’ve been acting on bad advice. 1. “White teeth are healthy teeth.” Pearlier does not […]
The Wise Patient’s Cheat Sheet on Wisdom Teeth Removal
There’s no way around it: the time has come for your wisdom teeth to be extracted. According to the horror stories out there, you are in for nothing but non-stop agony, but you don’t have to share the same fate! Being proactive and fully prepared for what happens during and after surgery can minimize the […]
Fixing Your Smile can Take Years off of Your Face
One of your most prominent facial features, your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. A smile that is yellowed, dingy, or otherwise unattractive can, in some circumstances, make you lookmore aged and unhealthy. One of the best defenses against this, of course, is taking care of your teeth with a […]
Cost of Porcelain Veneers in Orange County
Orange County Cosmetic Dentists Serving Huntington Beach, Fountain Valley, Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, and surrounding areasPorcelain veneers are one of the most versatile and effective cosmetic dental treatments available. Placed over the front of teeth, dental veneers can be used to conceal multiple flaws at once, restoring a bright, brilliant, and even appearance to smiles […]
Does Caffeine Make TMJ Worse?
Orange County Cosmetic Dentists Serving Huntington Beach, Fountain Valley, Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, and surrounding areas TMJ is a blanket term for any number of conditions that affect the proper alignment of the jaw. Symptoms of TMJ may include: Chronic headaches Neck, back, and shoulder pain Jaw clicking or popping Grinding noises when chewing Swelling or pain […]
Happy Haunting! Here’s How to Protect Your Teeth This Halloween
Orange County Cosmetic Dentists Serving Huntington Beach, Fountain Valley, Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, and surrounding areas Take Care of Your Teeth This Halloween!! During the month of October, it is common to have more treats lying around the house. Some of these, like popcorn balls and cookies, are homemade. Many others are store-bought. Both may […]
Dentist or Detective? Major Health Clues Your Mouth Provides
Chew on this for a minute: just by glancing inside your mouth, your dentist can tell you a number of things that may be news to you and your doctor! Surprising as it may sound, your oral health can speak volumes about the rest of your body, and something as simple as a routine dental […]
The Story on Soda: Your Soft Drink Questions Answered
Sorry to burst your bubble, but the reality is that no matter how refreshing that sweet, fizzy soda (or “pop”) tastes, there’s a chance it could be doing some damage to your teeth. But with so many products on the market, are they all really that bad for you? Answers to some of your most […]
A Child’s First Visit to the Dentist
It can be shocking to many parents, if not perplexing: many dentists now recommend you schedule your child’s first visit before he or she turns one. Before you brush it off as a bit of overzealous advice, you should know it’s supported by the American Dental Association and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry—and with good […]
How To Find The Best Dentist in Huntington Beach
Having a good dentist is one of those things you shouldn’t have to worry about; when you have one it’s great, but it can be very discouraging when you don’t. You know you should be getting your regular cleanings, but if you don’t have a regular dental office to go to, it is easy to […]
Top 5 Most Common Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments
At Surf City Dentist we know the most common oral health diseases are tooth decay and periodontal disease (or gum disease), and both are among the easiest to prevent. One of the most common ways we recommend to boost your oral health is by improving your diet, because you (and your mouth) truly are what […]
How Do Dentists Fix a Cavity?
The human mouth contains bacteria that breaks down the sugar that’s left on your teeth. As the sugar breaks down, it turns into acid that can damage the outer coating of your teeth, called the “enamel” of your tooth. If left untreated, this acid will then continue to erode its surface, creating holes in the […]
Why Coffee Lovers Need Teeth Whitening
There’s nothing like getting up in the morning, brewing your favorite coffee and starting your day with a BANG. But what does drinking coffee do to your teeth? Your morning routine might be affecting your dental health! If it can stain your clothes, it can stain your teeth. This rule of thumb is, unfortunately, true […]
Why You Should Frequently Visit Your Cosmetic Dentist
Frequently Visit Your Cosmetic Dentist And Wear Your Best Smile! If you’re looking for a reason to visit a cosmetic dentist in Huntington Beach and improve your smile and overall life, keep reading. There is scientific evidence to show that smiling can actually help improve your life, or at least how you feel about it. Smiling Is […]
How Often Should You Replace Your Toothbrush
It’s easy to know when to replace your car’s oil or when to replace the water filter in your refrigerator. But here is the million dollar question… When should you replace your toothbrush? And like many of us, as kids we were never taught about this issue and continued to use our toothbrush for a […]
What Happens When You Don’t Brush Your Teeth For One Day
Have you ever thought about how people maintained their teeth back in the days without the proper use of toothbrushes and toothpaste we have today? In ancient times, people used twigs or small pieces of tree branches called a chew stick or a tooth stick to brush off any residue of their teeth. They would […]
My Tooth Fell Out!! What Do I Do?
The loss of a tooth is a magical thing for a child. The moment you rushed to your room to hide your tooth underneath your pillow in exchange for some sort of valuable reimbursement from the tooth fairy was definitely a highlight of many of our childhoods. However, losing a permanent tooth as an adult […]
ORAL HEALTH FOR THE YOUNG ADULT
Young adults often have the reputation of not taking good care of themselves. You may feel invincible, and not realize how much your behaviors now can affect your health later in life. Oral health is one area that is easy to neglect now, but that can lead to serious financial and quality of life consequences […]
NUTRITION
At Surf City Dentist we know the most common oral health diseases are tooth decay and periodontal disease (or gum disease), and both are among the easiest to prevent. One of the most common ways we recommend to boost your oral health is by improving your diet, because you (and your mouth) truly are what […]
SWIMMING AND ORAL HEALTH
SWIMMING AND ORAL HEALTH Dr. Jeff Coleman THERE’S NOTHING BETTER than a swim in the pool to cool down during the hot summer months. Before we dive in, we should be aware of how our time in the pool can impact our oral health. That’s right: the chlorine in swimming pools doesn’t just cause dry […]
THE BENEFITS OF DENTAL IMPLANTS
THE BENEFITS OF DENTAL IMPLANTS Dr. Jeff Coleman IF YOU HAVE EXPERIENCED TOOTH LOSS, you are not alone. In fact, more than 35 million Americans are missing all of their teeth, while 178 million are missing at least one tooth. Here’s the good news: there are solutions for you. Dental Implants Function Much Like Natural Teeth While there are […]
Sleep Apnea?
Sleep Apena? Dr. Jeff Coleman Although continuous positive airway (CPAP) pressure therapy is the most recommended treatment for patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), not all patients are able to remain compliant with this form of treatment. Some complain of claustrophobia, dry nasal passages, skin irritation from masks, difficulty tolerating pressurized air, and accidentally removing the mask while […]
NIGHTGUARDS FOR TOOTH GRINDING
NIGHTGUARDS FOR TOOTH GRINDING Dr. Jeff Coleman HAVE YOU EVER woken up with a sore jaw, tooth pain, or a headache? These are common symptoms of sleep bruxism, or teeth-grinding. The American Dental Association estimates that 10-15 percent of adults struggle with sleep bruxism, and children can experience it too. Because it happens during sleep, it can be […]
SOCIAL MEDIA MAKES US ALL SMILE
SOCIAL MEDIA MAKES US ALL SMILE Dr. Jeff Coleman IT MIGHT NOT SEEM SO AT FIRST, but a dental practice is all about relationships—relationships between our team members and our relationships with YOU, our valued patients and friends. When we stop to think about the things we do each day, these things make it all worth […]
MOUTHWASH: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
MOUTHWASH: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW Dr. Jeff Coleman SWISH, GARGLE, SPIT – simple, right? Mouthwash is usually seen as an addition to your oral health, the cherry on top of your hygiene routine. But are you using the right kind, and are you using it correctly? Cosmetic Mouthwashes Mask Bad Breath Most people think all […]
BENEFITS OF USING AN ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH
BENEFITS OF USING AN ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH Dr. Jeff Coleman BRUSHING TWICE A DAY is important to keeping your smile healthy, but what can switching from a manual to an electric toothbrush do for your oral health routine? Electric Toothbrushes Provide Many Benefits While a manual toothbrush can get the job done if used properly, an […]
Cosmetic Dentist Secrets to Maintaining White Teeth
5 Huntington Beach Cosmetic Dentist Secrets to Maintaining White Teeth Dr. Jeff Coleman Most people want whiter teeth to have a more beautiful and brilliant smile. A great smile can increase confidence, and when you’re more confident, you are more likely to make an impression on others and to meet your goals. A whiter smile can also […]
What are the Most Common Cosmetic Dental Solutions in Huntington Beach?
What are the Most Common Cosmetic Dental Solutions in Huntington Beach? Dr. Jeff Coleman An experienced and talented Huntington Beach cosmetic dentist can help you get the brilliant smile that you’ve always wanted. Your smile can be fixed so that you have straighter and whiter teeth, and so that your smile is more balanced and better shaped […]
Dental Plaque – What You Should Know
DENTAL PLAQUE – WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW Dr. Jeff Coleman The mouth is a dynamic, constantly changing, environment consisting of saliva and its many different constituents, bacteria (both good and bad), tissue cells, and food debris among other things. Within this environment your teeth are in continuous communication with this diverse environment. The chemical and […]
Salt To The Rescue
SALT TO THE RESCUE Natures remedy for pain relief and prevention Dr. Ken Yabuki Salt, simple salt. It makes our food taste better, melts snow on our roads and preserves our food. What is even more astonishing, is that now we find that it also has hidden healing and pain relief powers, especially when it […]
What Causes A Cavity?
WHAT CAUSES A CAVITY? The what and whys of dental problems Dr. Ken Yabuki Cavities are one of the most common forms of oral health problems. How it actually forms is a combination of genetics and how your body reacts to particular bacteria that is resident in everyone’s mouth. Those bacteria’s are called Streptococcus mutans […]
Does Your Dentist Know What You Love?
DOES YOUR DENTIST KNOW WHAT YOU LOVE? Dr. Ken Yabuki Strange question? Not really, questions about who you are and what you love are keys to great dental health. Dental health is not just about finding a cavity or cleaning the teeth. It is about your overall health. If your tooth enamel is worn down, […]
PROTECT YOUR SELFIE!
PROTECT YOUR SELFIE! Critical steps to keep your online profile looking good Dr. Ken Yabuki Selfie’s are a great tool for feeling great and promoting yourself to an ever competitive world. You look your best, you smile a lot and you have a lot of fun! A key component to a wonderful selfie is a […]
Is A Mouth Guard Really Necessary?
Are Mouth Guard Really Necessary? Run! Jump! Speed! If you or your kids are involved with sports, bravo! Wonderful for the body, mind and spirit. Yet you must also know that there is a significant relationship to sports injuries and those that are sustained to the mouth/facial portion of your body. The good news […]
Teens and Dental Care
Teens and Dental Care Teenagers and dental care can be a challenging period for a parent. Your active teenager has the advantage of the last of the permanent teeth come in. This is the best time to look at their lifetime smile with teeth straightening, giving an increased confidence when it is often needed. On […]
Dental Visits While Pregnant
Dr. Ken Yabuki Should you are should you not continue your dental care while pregnant. It is a question that all expectant mothers consider. All instincts are on full to protect your unborn child from any outside influence. However surprisingly to some, dental care becomes even more important during this expecting period. Preventive dental cleanings […]
What To Look For In A Family Dentist
What To Look For In A Family Dentist Dr. Ken Yabuki Finding and choosing a family dentist can be challenging. After all, you have to find someone that works for yourself, your spouse and your kids. And it has to be someone that the family can trust. One of the primary keys is to find […]