Family Dentistry

Dental Health in Mission Viejo: Watch Out For Hidden Sugar

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

Dental Health in Mission Viejo

Every health-conscious parent knows that sugar is the number one cause of cavities for kids and it not all that great for adult teeth either. Foods with large amounts of sugar in them tend to have a negative effect on patients dental health in Mission Viejo, California.

Limiting Sugar Intake

Because of cavity risks, low nutritional value, and high-calorie content, many parents want to limit the sugar in their children’s diets. Obviously, there is a lot of sugar in bubble gum, lollipops, and gummy candy, but did you know that there is also sugar lurking in so-called ‘healthy’ snacks.

These children’s snacks may be packed with sugar:

  • Yogurt Covered Raisins
  • Fruit Snacks, including Roll-Up
  • Rice Cakes
  • Yogurt
  • Juice
  • Flavored milk
  • Fruit smoothies
  • Cereal Bars

Controlling sugar intake in your child’s diet is essential for lifelong dental health in Mission Viejo. When choosing lunchbox or after-school snacks, scrutinize labels very closely. Even though a brand may say it is a healthy alternative, the label might reveal that it isn’t. Furthermore, sugar content varies among brands, so never assume how much sugar a snack has until you check out the label on the back.

Find Snacks with Vitamins and Minerals

Sugar is not the only thing to watch out for. If your child’s diet is lacking key vitamins and minerals, the tissues in their mouth may have trouble fighting infection. These infections can lead to gum disease. It’s important to eat food that will improve your dental health in Mission Viejo, so if you’re having problems finding healthy foods, consult Parker Dentistry and we’ll advise you on healthy alternatives.

At Parker Dentistry, we provide high-quality dentistry to families in the California communities of Ladera Ranch, Mission Viejo, and Las Sorres. We offer services such as laser dentistry, sedation dentistry, and gum disease treatment. Our team at Parker Dentistry welcomes our youngest patients with a bright smile. If you have a toddler who has not visited a dentist, call us today to schedule a first-time dental check-up.

Contact Parker Dentistry:

949-429-0717

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

777 Corporate Dr Ste 100
Ladera Ranch, California
92694

 

What Can Fluoride Do? Dental Health in Ladera Ranch

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry, Sedation Dentistry

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Fluoride has been called a miracle mineral, because it is so beneficial to dental health. This post from Parker Dentistry in Ladera Ranch focuses on that fluoride is, and why it is so important.

Fluoride is a mineral, plain and simple. It is found in different foods, as well as in water. Many communities adjust the fluoride content of their municipal water. Fluoride is also added to dental products. This makes it possible for you to apply fluoride to your teeth when you brush your teeth or use mouth rinses.

And why would you want to put fluoride on your teeth? Because it will help to prevent tooth decay, of course! Fluoride gives teeth increased resistance against the acid attacks brought on by plaque bacteria as well as sugar in the mouth.

Essential for Young Teeth

Fluoride is especially good for young teeth. Between the ages of 6 months and 16 years, the primary and the permanent teeth come in. Fluoride exposure is extremely helpful for building a foundation for lifelong oral health.

But, stay tuned, adults: fluoride isn’t just for kids anymore. The prevailing view used to be that it was good mainly for developing teeth. But newer research shows it helps to prevent cavities in teeth of all ages.

Parker Dentistry is a full-service practice in Ladera Ranch. The dental health of all our patients is important. We provide general and family dentistry, and cosmetic dentistry. For those patients with dental anxiety, we also provide sedation dentistry. Call today to schedule an appointment.

Contact Parker Dentistry:

949-429-0717

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

777 Corporate Dr Ste 100
Ladera Ranch, California
92694

 

Fact And Fiction: Teeth Whitening in Ladera Ranch

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry, Porcelain Veneers, Teeth Whitening

Ladera Ranch Teeth Whitening and Veneers Judging from advertising, teeth whitening is in high demand, and it’s one of the services we offer at Parker Dentistry in Ladera Ranch. Everyone seems to want whiter teeth, and there is a bewildering selection of products and services to help you get them. How can you sort it all out?

There are numerous over-the-counter products that promise a whiter smile in a matter of weeks. From toothpastes to whitening strips, these products can be effective, but they have their limits. None of them can give you the kind of white smile you’ll get with professional whitening.

Don’t be fooled by smile whitening hype and risk poor results. If you have existing cosmetic dental work such as crowns, bonding, partial dentures or bridge work, it is important to talk to a trusted professional about worry-free teeth whitening.

If you have all-natural teeth that are dull or stained, teeth whitening will probably brighten your smile. If you have several crowns in the front of your mouth, veneers, or gums that have receded, conventional tooth-whitening may not be successful.

Porcelain veneers may be a better solution for you. Veneers are thin ceramic shells that are permanently attached to the front of your teeth. Porcelain veneers can do more than brighten your smile. Sometimes called “instant orthodontic,s” they can repair tooth misalignment and gaps as well as deliver instant teeth whitening.

At Parker Dentistry in Ladera Ranch, we offer several teeth whitening options: an in-office teeth bleaching, and a take-home whitening kit. We also provide general and family dentistry, and Six Month Smiles and Invisalign orthodontics.

Contact Parker Dentistry:

949-429-0717

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

777 Corporate Dr Ste 100
Ladera Ranch, California
92694

 

Teen Teeth: Family Dentistry in Ladera Ranch

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry, Gum disease, Restorative dentistry, Wisdom teeth

adolescent dental issues

At Parker Dentistry in Ladera Ranch, we see cavities and gum disease in far too many teenagers. Possible reasons include poor dental hygiene, unhealthy diet, and a misaligned bite. Whatever the cause, it doesn’t have to be that way. We encourage family members of all ages to take advantage of our dentistry.

Still, any parent knows that a young person is a special case. As children become more independent, some get lax about brushing and flossing. Some teens’ diets get worse as they have more freedom to choose what to eat.

Malocclusion, the technical word for a misaligned bite, can make proper brushing and flossing difficult. That leaves even vigilant brushers vulnerable to decay from food particles that are almost impossible to remove. Malocclusion can also trigger TMD (Temporomandibular disorder). If you suspect that your teen’s bite is not aligned properly, or has a clicking sound in the jaw joint, call us to schedule an exam.

Puberty causes all sorts of changes in the body, and the mouth is no exception. Increased hormone levels (especially in females) can cause the body to react to a very small amount of plaque, triggering inflammation of gum tissue and increased risk of the more advanced form of gum disease known as periodontitis. We can counsel you if more frequent professional cleanings are needed to preserve gum health.

One of the teen dental issues that impacts most young men and women is wisdom teeth. It’s best to start monitoring your teen’s wisdom teeth early so they can be treated before they lead to troubles with the jaw or surrounding teeth.

If you are looking for a family dentist in the Ladera Ranch area, we invite you to schedule an appointment at Parker Dentistry. Services include general and family dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and restorative dentistry.

 

Contact Parker Dentistry:

949-429-0717

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

777 Corporate Dr Ste 100
Ladera Ranch, California
92694

 

Happy Teeth: Dental Health in Ladera Ranch

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

Your California Dentist And Cleaning Your TeethKeeping your teeth clean is an essential part of maintaining a beautiful smile. One of the benefits of seeing us at Parker Dentistry in Ladera Ranch is a thorough cleaning and checkup, and a review of your brushing behavior. Dental health doesn’t happen all by itself.

Your Partner in Oral Health

Some of our patients mistakenly believe that since they brush and floss every day without fail, they don’t need a professional cleaning. But it’s important to understand that brushing and flossing can’t do it all.

Our dental hygienist uses techniques and tools that you can’t replicate at home, to totally remove any buildup of plaque and tartar. In addition, they’ll assess the condition of your teeth, and recommend improvements to your daily teeth cleaning habits.

Don’t Forget Basic Dental Hygiene

That’s not to downplay your home regimen; it is essential. Brushing and flossing at least twice each day can keep plaque and tartar from building up on your teeth and results in cleaner, healthier teeth.

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends visiting your dentist at least once every 6 months for a dental checkup and dental cleaning.

To keep that beautiful smile in first-rate condition, come in to Parker Dentistry in Ladera Ranch for a dental check-up and teeth cleaning. We provide general and family dentistry, as well as cosmetic dentistry services.

Contact Parker Dentistry:

949-429-0717

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

777 Corporate Dr Ste 100
Ladera Ranch, California
92694

 

Improve Your Smile Quickly With Porcelain Veneers in Ladera Ranch

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry, Laser Dentistry, Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain Veneers With porcelain veneers from Parker Dentistry in Ladera Ranch, you can revamp your smile without significant restorative dental work.

Sound too good to be true? It isn’t! Porcelain veneers are glass-like, wafer-thin covers that are attached to the front of your teeth. They can give you an immediate smile transformation.

Porcelain has been used in dentistry for many years, because no other restorative material is such an excellent match for natural tooth enamel. It is translucent and can be matched to the color of any tooth. Not only that, it is stronger than enamel and resists stains.

Dental ceramists who fabricate porcelain veneers are both artists and technicians. They create beautiful paper-thin wafers that adhere to the teeth, correcting chips and stains. Porcelain veneers can also straighten crooked teeth for patients who don’t need orthodontic work.

Patients who receive porcelain veneers appreciate the less-invasive process of enhancing their smile. Newer techniques require no removal of healthy tooth enamel.

We would be happy to show you what veneers can do for your smile.

Parker Dentistry provides cosmetic dentistry for patients in Ladera Ranch. We also practice general and family dentistry, and are skilled in the latest in laser dentistry technology.

Contact Parker Dentistry:

949-429-0717

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

777 Corporate Dr Ste 100
Ladera Ranch, California
92694

 

Excellence In Family Dentistry At Parker Dentistry

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Categories: Family Dentistry

Excellence In Family Dentistry At Parker Dentistry

At Parker Dentistry, we are proud of our legacy of dental excellence. If you are interviewing family dentists in Ladera Ranch, Rancho Santa Margarita, Mission Viejo, or San Juan Capistrano, we invite you to visit us.

Our dental service menu includes general, cosmetic, and orthodontic services for every member of the family.

We create a pleasant dental experience for our youngest patients and want to make sure they look forward to visits and never develop dental anxiety.

If you have toddlers and young children, we can guide you in pediatric oral care, sealants, and fluoride treatments.

If you have older children and teens, in addition to general dentistry, we provide orthodontic services, custom sports mouth guards, and wisdom teeth removal.

Hundreds of Parker Dentistry patients have dramatically improved their smile with the marvels of cosmetic dentistry including cosmetic dental smile makeovers.

Cosmetic dentistry techniques and materials are better than ever and some procedures can be completed in just one visit!

At Parker Dentistry, we treat you like family. To schedule an exam and cleaning, call us at 949-429-0717.

Say Cheese!

 

Contact Parker Dentistry:

949-429-0717

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

777 Corporate Dr Ste 100
Ladera Ranch, California
92694

 

Dental Sealants – Another Tool For Cavity Prevention

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Categories: Family Dentistry

Dental Sealants - Another Tool For Cavity Prevention In Mission Viejo

Dental patients in the Mission Viejo, Las Sorres, and San Juan Capistrano areas know that regular brushing and flossing are essential for optimal oral health. However, the bristles of your toothbrush can’t reach into every small groove and depression in your teeth, especially the really bumpy back teeth. That’s where sealants can be invaluable.

Dental sealants are a plastic material that is applied by your dentist. This material is a resin that bonds to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, mainly in the pits and fissures. The plastic acts as a shield against acids and plaque that can damage the enamel.

You might think that sealants are only for children and teenagers, but they are beneficial for adults as well. If you are wondering if sealants are right for you, give Parker Dentistry a call. This simple dental procedure can improve your oral health by protecting the surfaces that are particularly vulnerable to decay.

Many California dental insurance providers include dental sealants as a covered benefit, so check with your provider if you are considering them. If you don’t have dental insurance, ask us about financing options. Because they can prevent cavities, dental sealants can save you money in the long run.

I’m Dr. Lincoln Parker, an experienced Ladera Ranch dentist. Thank you for visiting my dental blog. Our practice offers:

cosmetic dentistry
dental implants
sedation dentistry
family dentistry
CEREC crowns

If you have any questions about these or other cosmetic dental procedures, call us today at 949-429-0717 to schedule a consultation.  Our friendly staff would be happy to assist you.

 

Contact Parker Dentistry: 949-429-0717

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

777 Corporate Dr Ste 100
Ladera Ranch, California
92694

 

7 Surprising Causes Of Bad Breath

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Categories: Family Dentistry

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Men and women who have chronic bad breath understand the embarrassment and frustration associated with this condition. There are several possible causes, some that are often overlooked:

  1. Poor oral hygiene
  2. Digestive problems
  3. Systemic infection
  4. Bacteria on dentures
  5. Gum disease
  6. Food particles on tonsils
  7. Dry mouth

At Parker Dentistry, we can help you with this unpleasant problem. If your bad breath is the result of poor oral hygiene, you’re in luck – this is one of the easiest types to treat. If you have visited our Ladera Ranch dental blog before, you know step one: make sure you brush for a full three minutes and floss before you climb into bed.

People who have no idea how long they brush can set a timer (there is probably one on your smartphone). In addition to cleaning tooth surfaces, scrub your tongue! Then, take the time to carefully floss around each tooth to remove the plaque between your teeth and keep your gums healthy.

Brush after each meal to prevent bacteria-causing food particles from sitting on their teeth during the day. In addition to freshening your breath, practicing proper oral hygiene will improve your health.

Schedule an examination and deep dental cleaning with us. Our dental hygienist will get all the plaque and calculus off your teeth. During your examination, Dr. Parker will determine whether you have a dental problem that is contributing to your breath.

Possible dental causes are: a cavity, a broken crown, or gum disease. If we suspect that your bad breath is caused by a non-dental problem, such as a respiratory infection, you will be referred to an appropriate medical professional.

Treating bad breath starts with a visit to Parker Dentistry. In addition to general dental care, we provide a complete menu of cosmetic dental services including cosmetic dentistry, family dentistry, and dental implants. Call 949-429-0717 today!

 

Contact Parker Dentistry: 949-429-0717

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

777 Corporate Dr Ste 100
Ladera Ranch, California
92694

 

Super Smiles For Life

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Categories: Family Dentistry

implant dentures Ladera Ranch

Your child should be naturally proud of his or her smile. It expresses joy, laughter, and fun! To make sure your child has a healthy and desirable smile, start early. Really early.

Dr. Lincoln Parker recommends that you bring your child in for their first dental visit soon after their first birthday. An early check is the first step in preventing issues and setting the stage for lifelong dental health. Dr. Parker will keep the visit short, but perform a thorough visual examination to make sure there are no concerns.

Dr. Parker will advise you on good dental procedures at home, such as correct brushing and flossing. You will also be guided regarding healthy eating choices and the impact of poor choices. It is especially vital to keep your toddler from eating sticky or hard candies that lodge in molars and spaces between teeth. It is also important to monitor the amount of juice they drink and keep it in a cup instead of a bottle.

Any time sugary foods or drinks are in contact with teeth, the enamel is weakened from the acid those substances contain. Prolonged exposure begins to wear the enamel away, setting the stage for cavities. Unlike broken bones that regenerate, once enamel is gone, it’s essentially gone, though fluoride can remineralize weakened enamel to a small degree.

Promoting a healthy, low sugar diet is always ideal for your toddler’s teeth. If your baby or toddler needs a bottle to calm down and go to sleep, make sure that the bottle contains only water.

Other essential habits are to brush and floss your teeth in front of your child. (If you have never been regular flossing – it’s time to start!) Let them see that it is a priority and a comfortable habit in your life. Brush their teeth with a soft bristled brush and a small amount of toothpaste. Let them try it, but always go over their teeth afterward, making sure each tooth is brushed. When finished, give them a cup of water to help rinse the toothpaste out.

Before coming to Parker Dentistry in Ladera Ranch, communicate with your child about the upcoming appointment and let them know that their teeth are going to be checked. Dr. Parker will help your child feel proud of their effort and help them have a pleasing visit, the first of many to come.

Call Dr. Parker at 949-429-0717 to schedule an appointment. Remember also to call any time between scheduled visits with any questions or concerns that might arise. We are devoted to your child’s lifelong dental health.

Dr. Parker serves many families in the Rancho Santa Margarita area with proficiency and compassion. Some of our patients come from Mission Viejo, Las Sorres, and San Juan Capistrano. At Parker Dentistry, we love working with children and will help your child have a good experience learning to care for their teeth.

At Parker Dentistry, each member of our friendly team is dedicated to making our youngest patients feel safe and comfortable. Our patients enjoy the friendly atmosphere while benefiting from our state-of-the-art technology.

Some of our most popular services include cosmetic dentistry, dental implants and sedation dentistry. We are located at 777 Corporate Dr Ste 100 in Ladera Ranch.

Say Cheese!

 

Contact Parker Dentistry:

949-429-0717

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

777 Corporate Dr Ste 100
Ladera Ranch, California
92694