Cosmetic Dentistry is Older than you Think

Your Cameron Park Dentist can help you restore your tired smile back to the way it used to be with amazing Cosmetic Dentistry techniques that will have you smiling every minute of the day, and thanks to the Mayans and other early civilizations, Cosmetic Dentistry in Cameron Park has made huge advancements.

These days it is easy to whiten your teeth with at home kits or in office whitening treatments from the best Cameron Park Dentist, but hundreds of years ago, people resorted to all kinds of techniques to enhance their pearly whites including urine.

Centuries ago, the upper classes whitened their teeth with acid. The whiter the better as it showed off ones status. Unfortunately, it wasn’t long before the Cosmetic Dentists of the day discovered that acid actually destroyed tooth enamel. Other teeth whitening techniques included one’s own urine and ammonia.   

Dental veneers and dental implants are becoming increasingly popular, and according to archaeologists, always have been.

Not much is known about the Mayan culture, but recent archaeological digs have discovered that the ancient Mayans were very much into Cosmetic Dentistry using tooth modifications such as filing, tooth sharpening, and inlays. Although the reasoning behind this practice is unclear, some say it could have something to do with aesthetics, social status, or religion. According to author Diego de Landa, who wrote Relacion de las cosas de Yucatan, the Mayan women would file their teeth creating a serrated edge. This was considered elegant and was done by the older women in the tribe. The teeth were filed using water and stones.

Today tooth jewelry and, “Grills,” are all the rage, and apparently were just as popular with the Mayan culture.  The inlays used by the ancient Mayans displayed Cosmetic Dentistry artisanship and skill. Although archeologists believe this technique began as early as 100 BC to 300 AD it wasn’t until 700 to 900 AD that tooth alterations became much more elegant. Mayan children, women and men would highlight their teeth using turquoise, quartz, jadeite, pyrite, hematite, cinnabar, and quartz. 

Apparently, the Mayans mixed powered quartz with water to use as an abrasive while the inlay holes were drilled. Once the hole was formed, the inlay was placed and cemented into place. Archeologists claim that Cosmetic Dentistry decoration was more popular among females with 65 percent modifying their teeth with more than fifty patterns being identified. Archeological findings indicate that 58 percent of the male population indulged in some sort of Cosmetic Dentistry as well.

If the thought of Cosmetic Dentistry in Cameron Park appeals to you schedule a consultation with Dr. Michael Wadden today.  

Dental Inlays and Onlays with Your Cameron Park Dentist

When it comes to dental procedures, your Cameron Park Dentist knows exactly what is best for you and your teeth and gums, and if you have damaged teeth that are not able to support a filling, but not quite bad enough for dental crowns, you are probably in the middle.

Your Dentist in Cameron Park, Dr. MichaelWadden, will tell you that capping a tooth that is damaged may not necessarily need a dental crown and could remove more of your tooth structure than is necessary, while a large filling could actually weaken what remains of your tooth. Large dental fillings could cause cracks and breakage, which could eventually lead to a root canal procedure and that is where Dental Inlays and Dental Onlays and Dental Inlays come in.

According to your Cameron Park Dentist, Dental Onlays and Dental Inlays are virtually the same type of restoration in that they are used when you are at that in-between stage where dental crowns and large fillings are not the answer. Dental Onlays are used by your Dentist inCameron Park to restore your large cavities without the need for a crown. Dental Inlays on the other hand are used to fill the spaces in between the rounded edges on the surface of your teeth at the center. Dental Onlays work just like an Inlay, but may cover the entire surface where you bite down, or cover one or multiple spaces. Your Cameron Park Dentist can also refer to dental Inlays and Dental Onlays as partial crowns.

Inlay and Outlay restorations are made of gold, composite material or tooth-colored porcelain. Cemented to your tooth permanently by your Dentist in Cameron Park, Inlays and Onlays will last for years and are extremely durable. If you would like cosmetic enhancement, have large fillings, or broken teeth, your Cameron Park Dentist may recommend Inlays or Onlays.

Inlays and Onlays usually require two dental appointments with your Dentist in Cameron Park. The first appointment includes the creation of molds for your Inlays or Onlays and temporary restorations. Your second appointment with Dr. Wadden is where the magic begins as your Cameron Park Dentist will carefully place your Inlay or Onlay and cement it into place.

If you think you are a good candidate for Dental Inlays or Dental Onlays, schedule an appointment with Dr. Walden who will be able to determine which procedure is best for you an your smile.

Six Healthy Foods That Could Be Hurting Your Teeth

You might think you are eating the healthiest foods in the world, but according to Prevention Magazine and your Dentist in Cameron Park, some foods are downright dangerous for your teeth.

If you have weak teeth, your Cameron Park Dentist recommends that you skip crunchy veggies like carrots and apples as they can crack your teeth. Dr. Michael Wadden from Cameron Park Dental Care says not to forgo them altogether but to cut them into smaller pieces.

Ice is a definite no, no, as it will break, or crack your teeth. Although ice may be sugar free, try resisting the urge to chew on it after you have finished drinking your beverage. Chewing on ice could cause some serious damage to your teeth.

Everyone’s favorite summertime veggie is sadly on the bad foods list for your teeth. The best Dentist in Cameron Park will tell you that biting into corn on a cob could crack or loosen your sealants and fillings. Eating corn on the cob could also cause damage to your brackets and wires if you wear braces, and it’s just as bad for denture wearers. If you must have corn on the cob, scrape it off before enjoying.

Dark colors like red pasta sauce can leave horrible stains on your teeth, as porous enamel will absorb the coloring. Dr. Wadden will also tell you that the tomatoes in the sauce are loaded with acid, which could temporarily make the enamel even more porous. You don’t have to give up pasta sauce forever if you swish your mouth with lots of water.

If you thought you were doing your teeth a favor by switching from red to white wine as red wine can discolor your teeth, you would be wrong. According to Cameron Park Dental Care the acidity in a bottle of chardonnay, or any white wine for that matter, makes your teeth more susceptible to staining, as white wine is more acidic.

Recent studies have shown that bottled water, which becomes acidic during purification, could be worse for your teeth as teeth and acid equals tooth decay. Another reason to go back to tap water is fluoride. Most tap water contains good for your teeth fluoride, which will help strengthen the enamel on your teeth.

As healthy as a bowl of popcorn without butter may sound, your Dentist in Cameron Park will say otherwise. Popcorn, like potato chips, can get wedged in between your teeth causing bacterial growth. Bite into an un-popped kernel of corn and it could be just as worse as it may break your teeth.

If you are unsure about your diet when it comes to your smile, schedule an appointment with the best Dentist in Cameron Park, Dr. Wadden from Cameron Park Dental. 

Prevent Dental Decay With Dental Sealants

Proper dental care begins with brushing and flossing, but unless you schedule regular appointments with your Dentist in Cameron Park, you could be asking for trouble, especially where your kids teeth are concerned.

Your Cameron Park Dentist Dr. Michael Walden from Cameron Park Dental Care recommends that you schedule your child’s first dental appointment when the first tooth appears even if your son or daughter is under the age of one.

During your child’s first visit, your Dentistin Cameron Park will get to know your son or daughter, examine his or her teeth, and look for tooth decay, gum problems or discoloration. With regular checkups, your kids could grow up with no problems, but even kids that brush and floss can be prone to tooth decay, and if that happens to your kids talk to Cameron Park Dental Care about dental sealants.

Dental sealants are applied to the fissures and pits in your molars and the premolars of your kids and teenagers. These deep groves are the reason that 75 percent of dental decay occurs. Because the pits and fissures are difficult to clean, they are very susceptible to cavities. Dental Sealants are plastic coatings that are applied to the premolars and molars giving the teeth an easy to clean, smooth surface that can last for years.

Children, tweens, teens, and adults are all good candidates for dental sealants. Occasionally your Cameron Park Dentist may even recommend dental sealants for your kid’s baby teeth.

Children and teenagers can be good candidates for sealants as soon as the first permanent back teeth begin to appear. Dental sealants are also good during the cavity prone years from ages 6 to 16.

Adults can also schedule an appointment with a Cameron Park Dentist for dental sealants if the surfaces of their teeth are free from tooth decay and have depressions or deep grooves.

Your Dentist in Cameron Park will apply a sealant to each tooth after thoroughly cleaning and drying the area. Once dry your Cameron Park Dentist will apply a solution to the surface of your tooth that helps the dental sealant bond to your tooth. After they are rinsed and dried the sealant material is painted on the enamel of your teeth in order to cover the depressions and deep grooves. The sealants will harden either with a curing light or automatically.

Sealants can protect your teeth and the teeth of your children for years, but not without regular checkups from your Cameron Park Dentist as dental sealants can chip and wear. Schedule an appointment today with Cameron Park Dental Care and find out if you and your children are good candidates for dental sealants. 

Restorative Dentistry with the Best Dentist in Cameron Park

Cameron Park Dentistry can help you restore your smile back to the way it used to be. Schedule an appointment with the best Dentist in Cameron Park and you will have taken the first step towards dental restoration.

According to your favorite Cameron Park Dentist tooth decay has started to diminish because of fluoride, new dental techniques, and products. With that being said, your Cameron Park Dentist will tell you that tooth decay still does exist. Regardless of your age, you can be susceptible to infection, decays, breakage and all sorts of tooth and gum issues, but because of the best Dentist in Cameron Park, there is something that you can do about it.

Thanks to your Cameron Park Dentist and modern technology, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Michael Walden to discuss dental restorations. Ask your Cameron Park Dentist about onlay restorations, inlay restorations, composite fillings, fixed bridges, dentures and partial bridges and caps. Dr. Walden will be able to restore all of your teeth back to their normal function, appearance, and shape.

An inlay restoration consists of fillings that are custom made by your Cameron Park Dentist. The inlay restorations are made of tooth-colored porcelain, gold or a composite material. Your Cameron Park Dentist will permanently cement your new inlays into your tooth.

Onlays are similar to inlay restorations and are the perfect alternative to caps and crowns because less of the actual tooth is removed. Onlays are not permanent and may need to be replaced although they are extremely durable. Onlays are useful for fractured or broken teeth, decayed teeth, large fillings, fractured fillings, or cosmetic enhancement.

Some of the reasons to consider restorative dentistry include smile enhancement, gaps between your teeth, tooth loss prevention, dental pain, bite correction, missing teeth replacement, repair decayed and damaged teeth, and to restore chewing and eating habits back to normal. These are just a few of the reasons to consider restorative dentistry with Dr. Walden and Cameron Park Dentistry.  

The best Dentist in Cameron Park will discuss your available options and recommend the most logical solutions for the health of your mouth and your wallet. Dr. Walden will provide you with the professional care and expertise that you have come to expect from your favorite Cameron Park Dentist.

Make an appointment today for a no obligation consultation for restorative dentistry with the best Cameron Park Dentist, Dr. Michael Walden. 

Bleeding Gums Could Be a Sign That You Need To See a Cameron Park Dentist

For more than 20 years, Dr. Michael Wadden has been practicing dentistry and opened his Cameron Park Dentist office fifteen years ago. Dr. Wadden is committed to providing his patients with the most comfortable and caring experience for all procedures including cosmetic dentistry, Cameron Park Dentist exams, cleanings and restorations.

The best Cameron Park Dentist is just a phone call away, and if you have been dealing with bleeding gums, it is time to make an appointment with a professional Cameron Park Dentist. According to Colgate, bleeding gums could be a sign of Periodontal Disease, but the only way to be certain is to schedule a thorough exam with the best Cameron Park Dentist in the Sacramento area.

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums. Your Cameron Park Dentist, Dr. Michael Wadden, will tell you that periodontaldisease is usually cause by lack of brushing and flossing. If you do not brush or floss your teeth regularly, plaque will begin to build up on your teeth. This plaque will eventually harden and become what is known as tarter. Advanced stages of periodontal disease can cause chewing problems, bleeding gums, and in some cases, tooth loss.

Your Cameron Park Dentist will determine if in fact you are suffering from gum disease by giving you a periodontal exam. Unlike some Dentists in Cameron Park, Dr. Wadden always performs a periodontal exam during a regular checkup. During your exam, your Cameron Park Dentist will use a small probe in order to measure the space between your gums and your teeth. Healthy pockets, technically known as sulcus, should not bleed if there is a depth of less than three millimeters. If the pockets are deeper, it is a sure sign of periodontal disease. Depending on the depth of your pockets, you could fall into one of three categories, Gingivitis, which is the first stage, Periodontitis, the second stage, and finally Advanced Periodontitis.

The last thing you want to risk is losing your teeth, which could very well happen if you let your bleeding gums continue without scheduling an exam with your Cameron Park Dentist. Don’t wait until it is too late and call Dr. Wadden, or schedule an appointment with the best Cameron Park Dentist online today. 

Cameron Park Dentist Discusses Dental Crowns

Many types of cosmetic and restorative procedures and treatments are being discussed online and in the news today. So it’s understandable that there might be confusion about which treatment best suits your situation - dental implants, crowns, bridges, or dentures. Today I’d like to speak to you specifically about crowns, their uses and benefits.

What is a dental crown? 
Dental crowns ("caps") are one of dentistry's most versatile types of restorations used by Cameron Park Dental Care. Crowns are a type of dental restoration which, when cemented into place, fully cup over the portion of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line. Since dental crowns encase the entire visible aspect of a tooth, a dental crown in effect becomes the tooth's new outer surface. There are several types of crowns but porcelain are the most popular.  They are highly durable and will last many years. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color or your teeth. 

When is a dental crown used?

A crown may be used to strengthen broken, fractured teeth, cover large or fractured fillings or for cosmetic enhancement. In addition, all teeth that have root canal treatment should have a crown (cap) placed.  This protects the tooth, prevents it from breaking, and restores it to its full function.

What does getting a crown involve?

A crown procedure usually requires two appointments.  Your first appointment at the Cameron Park Dental Care includes taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create a temporary crown as well as your permanent custom crown.  We prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. Your temporary crown is then placed.

At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure that spacing and bite are accurate. You will receive instructions for care and cleaning before you are sent home with a beautiful, enhanced smile.

Cameron Park Dentist Discusses: When Hot and Cold Temperatures Really Hurt

Have you ever taken a sip of a cold beverage, expecting refreshment, only to wince in sharp pain? Has a warm cup of tea been the source of unrelenting toothache? If you’ve experienced any of these symptoms when dealing with temperature, it is likely that you suffer from sensitive teeth. Dr. Wadden, a Cameron Park Dentist, wants to help you understand why your mouth is reacting to environmental temperature shifts.

There are numerous reasons why people experience sensitivity in this way. More specifically, and usually the most likely culprit, is that the root is exposed at the base of the tooth. It is there that millions of tiny tubes (called dentin), which are connected to nerve endings, are exposed to the elements. Gum recession, teeth grinding, aggressive brushing techniques, and acidic drinks all contribute to exposed gums and ultimately sensitive teeth.

Dr. Wadden says thats some people don’t realize they’re brushing too hard, thus affecting tooth sensitivity through enamel erosion and gum wear. Your most loved beverage -- coffee, tea, juice, wine, and popular energy drinks -- are also putting the condition of the tooth’s enamel and the dentin in a vulnerable position.

If you’re experiencing severe sensitivity, talk to Dr. Wadden about bonding the problematic areas. This is essentially a very fine varnish your dentist applies to the tooth. It's not a permanent fix, though. In the meantime, consider brushing gently, reduce your acidic beverage intake, and be aware of any tooth grinding you may be experiencing.

Cameron Park Dentist: Energy Drinks Are Bad For teeth

Many people believe energy drinks are useful consumable items that get them through the day. However, studies are suggesting that although energy drinks give people a short burst of productivity, they actually contribute to declining oral health.  Many people believe that an energy drink is a healthier alternative to soda and other sugary drinks. Specifically, the study shows that ingredients contained in sports drinks can damage tooth enamel which leads to increased risk of developing cavities.

The ABA led the research team, where 13 “sports” drinks (like gatorade) and 9 “energy” drinks (like Red Bull) were tested for their acidity. They tested six drinks for their effects on tooth enamel and found both types caused damage. Energy drinks, however, were twice as bad. Damaged tooth enamel cannot be fixed.  This study was published in the journal, General Dentistry.

The samples of enamel were immersed in the  test drinks for 15 minutes. The samples were then  to artificial saliva for two hours. This process was repeated four times a day for five days. The beverages were replaced with fresh ones every day. This process was developed in order to simulate real life, since people tend to consume these drinks throughout the day. The research shows that enamel loss was evident after five days of exposure!

If you’re an avid energy drink/sports drink user, then it would be wise to dilute the liquid with water in order to minimize the harmful effects to your teeth. Dr. Wadden, a Cameron Park dentist, suggests discontinuing use of  these beverages as a source of energy and instead, make healthy changes to your sleeping and dietary habits. You’d be surprised to find out that little steps will make you feel healthier, refreshed, and less dependent on stimulants.

Cameron Park Dentist Discusses Flossing Excuses

Believe it or not, a recent survey has found that only 49% of Americans floss daily and 10% of Americans don’t floss at all. These rough estimates are quite unfortunate, given howimportant flossing is to your oral hygiene routine. In fact, dentists agree that flossing is more important than brushing in the fight against periodontal disease, which could ultimately lead to tooth loss. People joke about how the only time they floss is when they’re due for their annual check-up. Cameron Park dentist, Dr. Michael Wadden, wants his patients to know that he can tell if you’ve been a long-term flosser or not.

And, he wants you to put an end to your excuses for not flossing regularly. The main “culprit” people cite for not flossing is that they don’t have time. Although effective flossing does require a bit of time (about 3 to 5 minutes), Dr. Cameron says that even 60 seconds of flossing is better than zero seconds of flossing. The key here is to make flossing a daily habit.

Other excuses vary from not knowing how to floss, not having enough dexterity to floss, or having dental work that makes flossing impossible, or that food doesn’t get stuck in your teeth. If it’s lack of knowledge that is keeping you from flossing your teeth, take a look at this video that clearly illustrates how to properly floss. Also, if you have dexterity constraints, consider a floss holder. These disposable plastic Y-shaped devices (some equipped with a spool of floss) hold a span of floss between two prongs to allow one-handed use. Furthermore, flossing doesn’t rid your mouth of food detritus, it gets rid of dental plaque, the very thing that causes gum disease.

Another oft-used excuse is that flossing can be painful for some. Bleeding while brushing and flossing is the precise condition flossing aims to prevent. The good news is that once you regularly floss and brush, these symptoms subside. If they persists, it is wise to contact Dr. Wadden at his Cameron Park office to figure out what is going on with your oral. Remember, brushing and flossing regularly is how you prevent periodontal disease!

Cameron Park Dentist Discusses Electronic Toothbrushes

When electronic toothbrushes first arrived in the dental healthcare market, there was only one brand offering automatic oral health care. These days, however, there are many different electronic toothbrushes available to consumers with different options -- like re-chargeable batteries, smaller designs, and superb cleaning options. Because of this, it can be daunting when trying to figure out which electronic toothbrush is right for you.

Fortunately, Dr. Wadden, a Cameron Park dentist, wants to help guide you through the maze of modern electronic toothbrushes. First, let’s discuss the main difference between the two major electronic tooth brushes.

Electronic V. Sonic

Electronic toothbrushes are designed to mimic the motion of your hand when you brush your teeth with a regular toothbrush, except you get 3,000 to 7,500 rotations per minute. These toothbrushes do most of the work for you. Sonic toothbrushes dwarf regular electronic toothbrushes with 30,000 to 40,000 strokes per minute. The sonic toothbrushes rapid movements go a long way to remove plaque and ultimately, lead to an easy next check-up at Dr. Waddens’ office.

How You Reap The Benefits

Recent studies have shown that electronic and Sonic toothbrushes help alleviate plaque and gingivitis -- reducing your risk of future gum disease as a result of gingivitis and eventually, periodontitis. Additionally, if you have any dexterity issues, having a toothbrush do the work for you, while also getting better than average results is another bonus. It might even influence users to brush more often, since there is less manual labor involved.

The only drawback associated with power toothbrushes is that they may be too expensive for some -- ranging in price from $15 to $100. Some even break the $100 dollar price point.

What Dr. Wadden Recommends

Since buying a power toothbrush can be a commitment of $100, Dr. Wadden knows how important it is to get the best one. As such, he advises his patients to ask their dental hygienist for their opinion on which electronic toothbrush is right for them during their next visit to our Cameron, CA dental office.

Cameron Park Dentist Discusses Cosmetic Dentistry Tips

Are you embarrassed about your teeth? Do crooked or chipped teeth keep you from smiling the way you would like to?

Tooth discoloration, asymmetry, overcrowding, or chipped teeth can dictate whether or not someone feels their smile is adequate enough to show to the world. Even though these imperfections are normal and completely human, often times they prevent people from achieving their personal and professional goals.

That's why Cameron Park dentist, Dr. Michael Wadden, would like to discuss the many ways in which people can make a difference in their smile. The first step, and possibly the easiest one to take is that of whitening -- the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedure on the market. Optimal whitening is achieved in the office with your dentist, but at-home remedies have been shown to help improve the appearance of teeth as well. However, a dentist whitened smile will last for years when used properly (that includes using professional gels and trays once a month).

If you have broken or chipped teeth, you have a few options. The first would be to implement bonding, a process where chips and gaps are filled in with a hardened, tooth colored substance. Crowns, or porcelain "caps," are more durable, as they cover the entire damaged tooth. Veneers are another option, but only cover a section of the tooth. Your dentist may also suggest gum reshaping (gingivectomy), if you feel your smile is too "gummy."

To save time and money, combine these procedures with orthodontics first -- if your teeth are especially misaligned. Once teeth are straightened out, you Cameron Park dentist will cosmetically correct the teeth orthodontics couldn't touch.