San Francisco Dentist Offers Pain Free Implant Dentistry

Patients Encouraged To “Like” Greg D. Larson, DDS on Facebook

Posted on May 19, 2013 by Dr. Greg D. Larson

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – Greg D. Larson, DDS is relaunching his Facebook page and wants you to be his newest “like.” The esteemed San Francisco TMJ, general, and cosmetic dentistry professional is publicizing his revamped page to further open the lines of communication with patients and offer new insight on the daily operations at Larson Dentistry. Exciting promotions, contests and events will be advertised on the page to increase awareness of all the fun happenings at the Jackson Street office, along with interesting and formative articles. Be sure to like Larson on Facebook and share why you rely on him and the friendly team at Larson Dentistry to keep your smile sparkling.

The recent Facebook page make-over will assist in promoting the tailored services each patient receives at Larson Dentistry. There are no “cookie cutter” treatment plans, because Larson crafts his services around each patient’s unique dental situation and comfort level. It’s clear why residents of San Francisco have trusted their oral health with Larson for more than13 years.

“One of our main goals as a practice is to establish a strong connection with our clients, both professionally and personally,” Larson said. “We focus on providing the most personalized care possible so clients know how much we value the health of their smile.”

Larson has garnered numerous accolades from his extensive training and commitment to keeping current with the latest techniques and advances in the dental industry. His associates at Larson Dentistry are also renowned for their expertise, relieving patients of issues like periodontal disease, cavities, TMJ disorders and a variety of maladies. Other outstanding general and cosmetic services include laser gum recontouring, dental caps, implants and crowns, and custom created porcelain veneers in San Francisco and surrounding neighborhoods. To discover more about the personalized service each patient receives at Larson Dentistry, like their Facebook page and schedule a consultation today.

San Francisco Dental Professional Simplifies the Science of Teeth Whitening

Posted on May 13, 2013 by Dr. Greg D. Larson

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – We’re all familiar with the stellar smile make-overs professional-grade teeth whitening systems can provide, but few possess an understanding of just how these methods achieve such dazzling results. Let’s dissect the science behind teeth whitening and how beverages like coffee and sodas progressively dull a smile’s shine.

First, the basics: Teeth are comprised of an inner dentin layer and a tough outer enamel layer. When food and drink are consumed, a coating accumulates on top of the enamel known as a pellicle film. Brushing the teeth with abrasive or whitening toothpastes helps to wither some of the film, but inevitably, most of the foreign material sinks through the enamel, darkening the shade of the tooth. Because the enamel is porous, stains easily permeate into the dentine layer.

The deep set stains can’t be erased by basic at-home dental hygiene practices. Professional-level whitening agents are required to permanently oust the unattractive yellow coloring. Dentists utilize safe whitening chemicals to break down through the enamel and reach the stained dentin layer.

San Francisco teeth whitening professional Greg. D Larson, DDS of Larson Dentistry offers two advanced whitening solutions proven to brighten even the most yellowed of grins. The Zoom whitening procedure and Kör whitening system provide varying yet equally effective methods for patients to achieve the sparkling smile they’ve always desired.

The speedy and popular Zoom technique harnesses the brightening power of light waves and a gel mixture of strong whitening agents. Larson applies the whitening gel thoroughly and evenly onto the patient’s teeth with the assistance of a comfortable smile retractor. Once uniformly coated, a special light is shined onto the teeth for roughly an hour. The light’s energy and the gel’s active whitening agents combine to dissolve stains and leave the patient’s teeth approximately 10 shades lighter. Larson can repeat the procedure a few times each to year to ensure optimal results.

For patients with persistent discoloration including tetracycline stained teeth, The Kör system allows for a more deeper and gradual whitening experience. Larson crafts a custom whitening plan which may include personalized trays and in-office treatments. Kör’s advanced technique is especially gentle on the teeth and ideal for patients battling sensitivity and unsatisfactory results with previous bleaching techniques.

Larson Dentistry’s knowledgeable associates aim to give their clients a pleasant and satisfactory smile rejuvenation experience. Patient’s lips and teeth are shielded throughout the whitening procedures, and each treatment is topped off with a five minute fluoride treatment to boost the smile’s health and sparkle.

Larson is a highly respected dentist in San Francisco who devotes much of his time to continued education and mentoring younger dental professionals. His broad expertise covers general and cosmetic dentistry, neuromuscular and restorative dentistry, ensuring comprehensive dental care for his patients. A trusted provider of teeth whitening procedures, Larson also administers porcelain veneers, dental crowns, Invisalign, laser gum recontouring and dental implants, among other smile solutions.

Don’t settle for a less than dazzling grin. With such viable cosmetic options available to patients of Larson Dentistry, there’s no reason not to put your best smile forward.

“World No Tobacco Day” Shines Light on Damaging Oral Effects of Tobacco Use

Posted on May 12, 2013 by Dr. Greg D. Larson

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA- In a globalized effort to reduce the consumption of tobacco products, The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared May 31 “World No Tobacco Day.” To fittingly observe the occasion, WHO strives to spotlight the devastating health repercussions of tobacco use, including the effects on the oral cavity.

San Francisco cosmetic dentist Greg D. Larson, DDS, renowned for his professional expertise and incredible smile makeovers, knows well the gruesome consequences of using tobacco products such as cigarettes and snuff.
“Tobacco wreaks havoc on the mouth’s soft tissues and the strength of the jaw bone, which spikes the risk of cancer and other unfortunate diagnoses,” Larson said.

Chemicals found in tobacco slowly deteriorate the jaw bone, harm soft tissues and compromise the teeth’s attachment to the bone, sparring gum disease, oral cancer, and lowered success rates with dental implant installations. Plaque and tarter also tend to build up at a heightened rate in smokers, multiplying the risk tooth decay and cavities.

Most apparent of all, tobacco triggers bad breath and dramatic teeth yellowing, often permanently altering the smile’s appearance.

Those convinced that the use of cigars and pipes are less detrimental to health are mistaken. In a study conducted by the American Dental Association, cigar and pipe smokers experience tooth loss and jaw bone deterioration at approximately the same rate as cigarette smokers. Truly, it is in the best interest of one’s oral health to avoid tobacco products entirely. All forms of tobacco will prove periodontal gum disease overtime.

Larson encourages those who have experienced unpleasant oral side effects from tobacco use to seek restorative treatment. Known as an outstanding provider of San Francisco pain free dentistry and cosmetic services such as Invisalign treatment and porcelain veneers, Larson is also widely admired for his extensive work in general dentistry. Contact Larson Dentistry to help combat the damage from tobacco products.

© 2013 Sinai Marketing and Greg D. Larson, DDS. Authorization to post is granted, with the stipulation that Sinai Marketing and Greg D. Larson, DDS, are credited as sole source. Linking to other sites from this press release is strictly prohibited, with the exception of herein imbedded links.

How Aging Affects Your Oral Health

Posted on April 28, 2013 by Dr. Greg D. Larson

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – As we age, we deal with certain physical changes. Our skin may start to wrinkle, our eyesight may worsen and our joints may show signs of arthritis. You may also start to notice changes in your teeth and gums.

Larson Dentistry in San Francisco where provides teeth whitening and dental implants welcomes patients of all ages, and our expert team works closely with you to make sure live the rest of your life with a gorgeous, healthy smile. Getting older also has certain implications on our oral health, which is why regular dental visits are as important as ever.

Prevent and Restore Tooth Loss
Have you lost one or more teeth because of illness, tooth decay, gum disease or accidents? You’re not the only one. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that a quarter of American adults 65 and older have lost all of their permanent teeth. To best prevent tooth loss, you should brush twice a day and floss at least once a day. You should also visit the dentist often. The American Dental Association recommends you visit the dentist once every six months, though you may need to visit more frequently if there are present oral health risks.

You don’t have to live a life without teeth. San Francisco sedation dentist Greg D. Larson, DDS, offers full mouth rejuvenation with dental implants. This smile makeover will help you in several ways. First, the dental implants will help support your facial tissues, which will fill out your facial features and reduce sagging. In short, it will make you look younger! Second, the full mouth rejuvenation will last forever, while dentures are only a temporary fix for your tooth loss. And last, you’ll be able to chew delicious foods and speak normally with your restored teeth. You’ll look great and feel confident with a fully restored smile.

Watch Out for Dry Mouth
Dry mouth isn’t a byproduct of aging, but it is a side effect of many medications. Tell your dentist about your prescriptions at every dental visit. If you take medicine for allergy relief, pain relief, anxiety, asthma, Parkinson’s disease or depression, you could experience dry mouth as a side effect. Your saliva is important in cleaning and reducing bacteria in your mouth. If you experience dry mouth, there are several steps you can take to encourage your saliva to flow.

First, try to drink lots of water. Second, chew sugarless gum to help boost saliva production. Your dentist may also have some favorite methods to protect your teeth from dry mouth symptoms, such as recommending an oral moisturizer or using a humidifier to increase the moisture in your environment. Remember to discuss any medications you’re taking so your dentist has a complete picture of your health and is aware of any possible side effects.

Eat Right
A balanced diet is also important to your tooth and gum health. A healthy diet can help you thwart tooth loss and decay. Processed sugar is bad for your teeth and your whole body. Our bodies can break down real, whole foods much easier. That means eating foods that grown naturally is better for your oral health than eating heavily processed foods that you buy in boxes. Focus on a diet high in vegetables and fruits and low in any added sugar. Sugar and carbohydrates encourage oral bacteria production and raise your risk of developing cavities and decay.

Your teeth are essentially bones, and we’re sure you know calcium is associated with bone health. It’s important to get enough calcium in your diet as well as enough minerals that help you best absorb calcium. Low-fat dairy products such as yogurt, cheese and milk will help you up your calcium intake. Leafy green veggies like kale, broccoli, Swiss chard and spinach are also good calcium sources. Vitamin D and phosphorous help you process and distribute calcium throughout your body. Many dairy products are fortified with these vitamins and minerals, but you can also find vitamin D naturally in fish, eggs and mushrooms, and you can receive phosphorous from flaxseeds, pine nuts, cheese, soy beans and many types of seeds.

Your mouth is a gateway to your entire body, and a healthy mouth is often a sign of a healthy body. A strong, healthy mouth is attainable at any age, and our dentistry in San Francisco helps you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Contact us to schedule an appointment or to discuss your specific oral health needs.

It’s Not Too Late for Adults to Receive Community Fluoride Benefits

Posted on April 22, 2013 by Dr. Greg D. Larson

Benefits of Fluoride SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – Fluoridated water is a topic of much discussion. Some communities have voted against its use despite the continual research that proves its safety and effectiveness at preventing tooth decay. Recent study results published in the Journal of Dental Research now show that even adults can receive dental health benefits from drinking fluoride-enriched community water.

San Francisco dentists like Greg D. Larson, DDS, understand adding fluoride to tap water is extremely useful to preventive care. Fluoride adds healthy minerals to your dental enamel that helps strengthen your teeth against decay. Our team knows routine dental visits, good oral hygiene habits, balanced diets and using fluoride helps reduce dental cavities and decay. Greg D. Larson, DDS practices cosmetic and general dentistry, and he brings residents of San Francisco a variety of treatments including veneers, Invisalign treatment, laser gum contouring and tooth restoration with crowns.

This recent study by researchers from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the University Of Adelaide, Australia, examined how fluoride affected adults, whether or not they had grown up in a community with fluoridated water.

“It was once thought that fluoridated drinking water only benefited children who consumed it from birth,” says Dr. Gary Slade, director of UNC’s oral epidemiology Ph.D. program. “Now we show that fluoridated water reduces tooth decay in adults, even if they start drinking it after childhood.”

Adults can still receive benefits from drinking fluoridated water even if they didn’t grow up in an area with community-regulated fluoride levels. Study results showed adults who lived in places with community-fluoridated water for three-fourths of their life experienced up to 30 percent less tooth decay than adults who had spent less than one-fourth of their life in fluoridated areas.

The establish fluoride level for the U.S. is between 0.7 and 1.2 parts per million, or ppm. Many of us have a hard time visualizing how much fluoride this is. The American Dental Association shares measurements that help us understand how small amounts of fluoride this really is. When 1 ppm of fluoride is added to a million parts water, it’s equivalent to 1 inch in the span of 16 miles, or one minute in the span of two years. According to San Francisco veneers provider it’s amazing to know how such a small amount of fluoride can protect our smiles.

Not only is the amount of fluoride needed to protect teeth very minuscule, but the process is also cost effective. The ADA reports that it costs less per person to fluoridate water for a lifetime than it does to receive one dental filling.

Contact our practice to schedule a regular dental checkup or to discuss the benefits of fluoride for your tooth, teeth bleaching
and gum health.

Say Good-bye to Bad Breath: What Causes Halitosis and How to Prevent It

Posted on April 17, 2013 by Dr. Greg D. Larson

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – Is frequent bad breath getting you down? In medicine, we call bad breath halitosis. Bad breath can make you less confident and may even cause you to socialize less than you would with fresh breath. However, it doesn’t have to be that way.

Dentist in San Francisco Greg D. Larson, DDS, helps us understand why we may have bad breath, and he gives us tips to make our breath fresher and more pleasant.

Do you visit the dentist often?
The American Dental Association recommends you visit the dentist once every six months. You may need to visit more frequently if you show signs of gum disease or decay. Frequent dental visits let your hygienist thoroughly clean your teeth, mouth and gums, which can greatly improve your breath. You may also suffer from early or advanced gum disease, and gum disease can contribute to bad breath. When gum disease is diagnosed in its early stage of gingivitis, it can still be treated and eradicated. Frequent visits with your dentist will ensure that he catches any signs of gum disease before they advance to more severe stages.

Visiting the dentist often will also give you time to discuss improving the appearance of your smile with your cosmetic dentist. San Francisco patients can visit our office for expert porcelain veneers, Invisalign treatment laser gum contouring and professional tooth whitening.

How good is your oral hygiene?
If you don’t brush or floss often, it’s not surprising that your breath is less than fresh. Brushing and flossing are preventative oral care that help to remove bacteria and food particles from your teeth, so failing to brush and floss leaves food remnants and bacteria in the mouth to grow and even rot. Floss at least once a day and brush at least twice a day for improved breath. Floss between each tooth and brush all surfaces of every tooth. Change your toothbrush every few months, and be sure to change it after you’ve recovered from an illness. Remember to scrub your tongue, too! Your tongue can hold oral bacteria and add an unpleasant odor to your breath. When you’re at work or school bring a toothbrush for an after-lunch freshener or chew sugarless gum to encourage your saliva to flow. Also, oral infections can lead to serious health problems for all ages.

What does your diet consist of?
Some items are known to induce bad breath, such as garlic or onions. You may have heard the quip that if your date eats garlic, you too must eat garlic. Joking aside, these items can leave a pungent odor that you may find unpleasant. Either you can refrain from eating garlic or onions, or you can combat these odors with natural breath fresheners such as mint, parsley, coriander or cinnamon. Apples, pears, carrots and celery are crunchy foods that naturally clean your teeth; try munching on these fruits and veggies raw to improve your breath and your oral health.

Is your mouth frequently dry?
Dry mouth could be causing your bad breath. If so, your dentist may want you to drink more water to encourage saliva production. Saliva starts breaking down food particles in your mouth and can decrease odors on your breath. It also helps neutralize acids in your mouth and cleanses your mouth of dead cells. Decomposing cells that are trapped in your mouth can contribute to unpleasant breath. Visit your doctor if you are experiencing dry mouth. It could be related to mouth breathing, poorly functioning salivary glands or even a certain medication you’re taking.

Do you have other health issues?
If you’re a frequent follower of our blog, you know that other health issues can interfere or contribute to oral health problems. Respiratory problems, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, could be causing bad breath. Exhaled breath comes from your lungs, so if there is an infection there it could affect your breath. You could also be experiencing bad breath due to sinus issues. Liver problems, acid reflux, kidney problems and diabetes may also worsen your breath.

Discuss these issues with your dentist at your regular appointment, or schedule a visit to determine the cause of your bad breath. Our team would love to help you find the cause of your bad breath and brainstorm ways to improve it. You deserve to feel confident in your smile and in your fresh breath. Contact Larson Dentistry today for an appointment.

Researchers Come Closer to Tooth Regeneration Grown From Human Gum Cells

Posted on April 9, 2013 by Dr. Greg D. Larson

Tooth Regeneration Grown SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – The latest stem cell research illustrates hope for patients with degenerative diseases, liver disease and even certain types of cancer. New research is also providing hope for improved oral health, especially for patients who have suffered tooth loss.

The Journal of Dental Research published the paper “Adult Human Gingival Epithelial Cells as a Source for Whole-tooth Bioengineering,” which gives dentists prospects of developing new teeth from a patient’s existing gum cells.

Greg D. Larson, DDS, San Francisco neuromuscular dentist, believes stem cell research can greatly improve our health and our quality of life. Missing teeth can put strain on your surrounding teeth and destabilize your bite. The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons reports 69 percent of adults between the ages of 35 and 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth due to accidents, tooth decay or periodontal disease. We see that tooth loss is a common dental issue for adults.

Currently there are three methods commonly used to replace missing teeth: dentures, bridges and dental implants. Implants are the most ideal replacement, as the titanium post bonds to your jawbone and inhibits bone resorption. For those of you who may need dental implants San Francisco dentist Greg D. Larson, DDS, tops the implant with a tooth-colored crown to match your adjacent teeth.

The bioengineering of replacement teeth could drastically change the way dentists approach correcting tooth loss. Researchers in the study used separated epithelial cells gum cell samples from the Dental Institute at King’s College London. They combined the human epithelial cells with mesenchyme cells from mice, and then implanted the blended cells back into the mice. The implanted cells successfully grew new hybrid human-mouse teeth, complete with roots, enamel and dentin.

“In the future we envision, a patient who loses a tooth and wants a replacement will be able to choose between current methods and a biological-based implant—a new natural tooth—derived from the patient’s own dental stem cells,” says King’s College professor and lead study author Dr. Paul Sharpe.

This new method should also appease many people who oppose stem cell research because of the embryotic cells needed. This method simply uses gum cells from your own mouth to create a fully functional living tooth replacement.

Although it will be a while before you can grow a new tooth in a dental office, this research excites us about the future possibilities of tooth regeneration.

In addition to restorative dentistry, our team also provides general and cosmetic dentistry to San Francisco patients, including teeth cleaning, porcelain veneers, Invisalign treatment and full mouth rejuvenation.

Observe Sleep Apnea Awareness Day April 18 for the 18 Million Americans With OSA

Posted on April 3, 2013 by Dr. Greg D. Larson

San Francisco cosmetic dentistry SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – Is your sleep frequently interrupted by snoring? Do you wake up breathless and fighting for air? If so, you could be one of the 18 million Americans suffering from obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA. The American Sleep Apnea Association and Wake Up to Sleep join forces to spread the word about the prevalence of OSA by deeming April 18 Sleep Apnea Awareness Day.

On Sleep Apnea Awareness Day the ASAA will launch its “Faces of Sleep Apnea” video. You can add your unique sleep apnea story to the compilation and give viewers hope of living a normal healthy life with OSA. And the truth is, though the effects of OSA can be devastating, there is hope. San Francisco dentist Greg D. Larson, DDS, can evaluate you for symptoms of OSA. Our team offers support and treatment depending on your individual case. Your dental health affects many other aspects of your life, and we want to improve your health and encourage you to live better.

How OSA Affects You

Sleep apnea is extremely common and also manageable. With OSA your throat muscles relax to block your upper airway during sleep. The pause in your breathing caused by the blockage is called “apnea.” The most obvious effect of OSA is that you lose sleep. OSA leads to daytime exhaustion, and when you’re sleepy at work or school, your performance suffers. You are also at greater danger when driving a car because you’re less alert than your fully rested self. OSA can also lead to less obvious problems, such as high blood pressure, trouble concentrating, decreased sex drive, cardiovascular disease, depression and stroke. Living with untreated OSA can also add strain to your relationships.

Familiarize Yourself with OSA Risk Factors

You may be better equipped to deal with OSA if you’re aware of its common risk factors.

Alcohol and sedatives may worsen OSA as they loosen your throat muscles. You may also have a higher risk of OSA if you have allergies, sinus problems or a deviated septum. If you’re overweight or older than 40, you have greater chances of developing OSA. Males are more frequently diagnosed than females, though expert estimate OSA is largely under-diagnosed. The combination of a large tongue and small jawbone can raise your risk for OSA. If you smoke, have diabetes or have OSA in your family history, you could also be at higher risk.

We manage some cases of OSA with a comfortable nighttime orthotic that props up your upper airway to help you breathe easily. We collaborate with medical doctors in related fields to make sure the treatment is viable to your total body health. Every patient is unique, and we take special care ensuring that our recommendation is the most helpful and beneficial for you.

Our team also specializes in cosmetic dentistry procedures in San Francisco, where we offer beautiful porcelain veneers, professional tooth whitening, laser gum contouring and Invisalign invisible braces. Contact us to discuss your sleep habits and possible routes for improvement. Treat your sleep apnea and sleep well.

Oral Care Tips for Pregnant Women

Posted on March 31, 2013 by Dr. Greg D. Larson

San Rafael Cosmetic dentist SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – Pregnancy is a time full of change and growth. You’ve seen changes in your body as it trains for motherhood. You’ve likely changed your home or maybe even your habits to prepare for your new baby’s arrival. In the rush of this exciting period, you may have started to neglect your oral health.

This time, though, is especially important for your teeth and gums. The hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy make you more susceptible to certain oral bacteria, and these changes can encourage the development pregnancy gingivitis. Pay close attention to your gums during your pregnancy. If you notice your gums are swollen or tender, or if they bleed while you’re brushing or flossing, you could have pregnancy gingivitis. Don’t ignore these signs; contact your dentist for a checkup immediately.

Dental Care During Your Pregnancy

Some of you may have heard that you shouldn’t receive dental care during pregnancy. This is a myth, and the lack of dental care may even be detrimental. At Larson Dentistry we offer pain free dentistry to help patients in San Francisco receive comfortable and effective dental care. Greg D. Larson, DDS, treats these early signs of gum disease with ultrasonic and laser technology that gently removes plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums.

Untreated gum disease could cause problems for you and for your baby. Severe gum disease has been linked to preterm birth, so it’s important to seek treatment for these symptoms. Advanced gum disease may also cost you permanent teeth, and though dental implants can help to recover them, our team in San Francisco would prefer you to keep your original teeth healthy and strong. SF cosmetic dentist Dr. Larson also offers tooth whitening, gum contouring, porcelain veneers, Invisalign and Invisalign Teen to enhance your smile.

Morning Sickness and Oral Health

If you’ve experienced morning sickness, you may have the urge to brush your teeth immediately after vomiting. Many patients believe brushing directly after vomiting is good for their teeth and their breath, but that’s not true. Brushing too soon can cause the stomach acids to erode your tooth’s enamel and contribute to tooth decay. To expel the taste of vomit from your mouth, rinse your mouth with water, mouth rinse or a mixture of water and a small amount of baking soda. After vomiting, it’s wise to wait about an hour before brushing your teeth.

Continue Brushing and Flossing

Practice optimum oral hygiene during your pregnancy to enjoy health gums and teeth. Floss between your teeth at least once a day. You may want to floss more often to reduce your risk of pregnancy gingivitis. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluorinated toothpaste. Some women say brushing their teeth during pregnancy causes them to gag. Slow down your brushing and focus on each tooth. Keep breathing normally while you brush to stay calm and reduce the chances of triggering your gag reflex.

Displaying exemplary oral care habits during pregnancy makes you more likely to continue these practices after your baby is born. As your child grows, he will likely notice your oral care habits and start to mimic them. This will help you instill a lifetime of good oral habits in your child.

Examine Your Diet

Hopefully your recent pregnancy has caused you to examine your current diet. You may already eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and low in sugar. Processed sugar isn’t good for your teeth and gums, and it’s not good for your developing baby. You may be cutting out caffeine during pregnancy, which helps eliminate sugary drinks like sodas and energy drinks that put your oral health in jeopardy. Tap water is the best beverage choice around, and it’s free! Drinking water helps cleanse your mouth, and it helps saliva to flow freely. Saliva is a natural cleaner that removes harmful bacteria from our mouths.

The Larson Dentistry team wishes you and your family well during this special time. If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’d love to address any of your oral care concerns.

© 2013 Sinai Marketing and Greg D. Larson, DDS. Authorization to post is granted, with the stipulation that Sinai Marketing and Greg D. Larson, DDS are credited as sole source. Linking to other sites from this press release is strictly prohibited, with the exception of herein imbedded links.

Dental X-Rays Help Detect Oral Health Complications

Posted on March 22, 2013 by Dr. Greg D. Larson

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – Some patients hear the word “X-ray” and immediately think danger! Radiation! The truth is that modern dentistry is extremely safe, even when it comes to X-rays. We can learn a lot by examining your mouth with our eyes, but we can learn even more by examining what’s happening between your teeth and beneath your gums. X-rays allow us to see like Superman and gather complete information about your oral health needs.

Our San Francisco dental office uses advanced digital radiography technology. This innovative technique puts you at 90 percent less radiation exposure than you’d experience with traditional X-rays. This method is also more sustainable for the planet, since we don’t need harsh chemicals to develop traditional X-rays.

Why You Need Dental X-rays
Dental X-rays are instrumental for dentists to detect unseen problems in your mouth. Your dentist will determine how often you need X-rays. You may need them more frequently if you’re at higher risk of developing gum disease. The frequency may also depend on your age and the state of your current oral health. High-risk patients may need digital X-rays at each visit or at every other visit, while adult patients who show no risk of decay may only need X-rays once every few years.

You’re a New Patient
If you’ve never visited our office before, digital X-rays are extremely helpful for our team to establish a baseline for your tooth care. Once we have that standard from your first visit we’ll be able to accurately monitor any changes that occur later. We may also ask your previous dentist to send us copies of your X-rays so we can get a complete picture of your oral health.

You’re Preparing for Dental Procedures
It’s common for us to need a digital X-ray of your teeth before we implant a new tooth or undergo full mouth rejuvenation. These images better prepare Dr. Larson for working inside your mouth. We also offer many cosmetic dentistry procedures to take your smile to the next level. Before we apply San Francisco teeth veneers or offer professional laser teeth whitening, we want to be sure we know about any underlying issues in your mouth.

You Could Have Unseen Abnormalities
You may brush your teeth twice a day, floss once a day and visit our office regularly. There could still be something lingering beneath your gum line that only a digital X-ray can reveal. With X-rays we can accurately detect an infection beneath your tooth’s root or hidden between teeth. If there is any evidence of gum disease, an X-ray can help us discover any bone loss that may also occur. Sometimes X-rays help us find tiny areas of decay between the teeth that aren’t easily visible to the eye. This advanced vision also lets us see certain types of tumors or cysts that can develop in your mouth. Once we know exactly what issues are going on in your mouth, we can accurately diagnose and treat your individual case.

Younger Patients
When it comes to tooth development, kids have a lot more going on in their mouths than adults do. We use digital X-rays to make sure our littlest patients aren’t experiencing any hidden tooth decay. We also monitor their development to make sure their mouths have plenty of room for their permanent teeth. These digital images also allow us to watch the wisdom teeth beneath the gum line. We can see if wisdom teeth are impacted and watch their progression. Our consistent images also show us how quickly our patients are losing baby teeth. As baby teeth shed, our permanent teeth come in, making it important to monitor your child’s tooth movement.

Modern digital X-rays are completely safe, and they can even save you from larger dental issues down the road. Our team closely monitors your oral health and provides a high level of patient satisfaction. We do our best to improve and strengthen your smile, and through that, improve your life. If you can’t remember your last dental X-ray or exam, it’s probably time for a visit. Contact us today to set a dental appointment for you and your family.

© 2013 Sinai Marketing and Dr. Greg Larson. Authorization to post is granted, with the stipulation that Sinai Marketing and Dr. Greg Larson are credited as sole source. Linking to other sites from this press release is strictly prohibited, with the exception of herein imbedded links.