Dr. Sasaki's Dental Blog » General Dentistry

Give Me Some Air

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 14:01:17 +0000

How long have dentists been drilling teeth? Would you believe 9,000 years? In an ancient graveyard in Pakistan, archaeologists unearthed skulls containing teeth that had undergone drilling. The stone-age dentists removed decay using drills constructed of sharpened flint.

Though advanced dentistry would not be possible without drilling, the sound of a dental drill can make many Ypsilanti patient’s hearts pound. However, there is another way your cosmetic dentists can remove decay. This technique is known as air abrasion or drill-less dentistry. An air abrasion instrument removes material by spraying tiny aluminum oxide particles onto the tooth. The particles work like a sandblaster spraying away the affected tooth structure.

The many advantages of air abrasion make it a popular procedure for Ypsilanti cosmetic and general dentists. Because air abrasion is usually pain free, the need for anesthesia is reduced. The air abrasion instrument does not create vibrations or pressure. Ypsilanti cosmetic dentistry patients appreciate the fact that air abrasion instruments don’t produce that whiny drill sound that rings in your ears and makes your palms sweat. Because of this, air abrasion can be a less-frightening option for young dentistry patients. Air abrasion is often quicker and more precise than traditional drilling, leaving more of the healthy tooth intact.

To learn more about the comforts and benefits of air abrasion, call our office today.

Find A Dentist in Ann Arbor

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 14:42:55 +0000

There are a lot of places to look for a dentist, but its not always easy to find a dentist in Ann Arbor.

It used to be that in Ann Arbor you could find a dentist just by walking down to the corner of the street. Like many small towns, there would be a dentist on the corner of ‘north and main’, just up from the fire house, and across from the bakery.

Today, finding a dentist around Ann Arbor can take a little more time, and a little more effort. Our local Ann Arbor community is spread out a little more, and there is more than one option for finding a local dentist in Ann Arbor.

Let’s look at a few of the ways to find a local Ann Arbor dentist:

The old timers among us still reach for the yellow pages when we look to find a dentist in our local Ann Arbor community. The yellow pages have been a standard for dentists since the beginning, and are a quick way to get a good list of local Ann Arbor dentists.

Studies are showing an ever increasing number of Ann Arbor consumers are turning to their Internet connection to find a dentist. To find a dentist online can mean more than just a name and a phone number; many dentists, like us, have additional information on their website that will help you gain a better understanding of their practice and the services they provide.

Many people find a dentist in the Ann Arbor community through printed mailers and flyers that come to your door. Ann Arbor dentists spend a lot of money on these types of flyers, which can often carry a discount opportunity or special promotion.

The most popular method used to find a local dentist? …Word of mouth. Studies have shown that people in Ann Arbor are more willing to listen to a family member or close friend when it comes to finding a local Ann Arbor dentist.

We understand this last point, and make it our job to keep our patients happy, healthy, informed and comfortable during their visit to the dentist. We know if you leave happy, your friends and family in the Ann Arbor area will hear about us, too.

If you are looking for an Ann Arbor dentist, please give us a call. You can reach us at 734-482-7466.

If you know a friend who is trying to find a dentist in the Ann Arbor area, please pass our name along.

We look forward to seeing you both!

Looking For A Dentist In Ann Arbor

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 16:20:01 +0000

Looking For A Dentist In Ann Arbor is sometimes a simple matter of word of mouth. The most common way for people to find a dentist in a new area such as Ann Arbor is to ask a friend or neighbor. ‘Who is your dentist?’ is a common question. The answer is usually followed up with an explanation about whether or not your friend likes their dentist or not, and whether they would recommend their Ann Arbor dentist to a friend.

I am Dr. Gary Sasaki, and I am a dentist serving the Ann Arbor Michigan community as a licensed dentist. We call our practice ‘Gary Sasaki DDS, MS’, and we welcome new patients from the Ann Arbor area.

If you are new to the Ann Arbor area and are looking for an Ann Arbor dentist, please come by my dentist office in Ann Arbor Michigan. I will be happy to spend some time with you to get to know you, and to introduce you to our comfortable, friendly, professional and relaxing office staff.

I realize that most of our new patients will come to us by word-of-mouth referrals and our patient testimonials. It is our goal to deliver such a positive dental experience that you will be compelled to tell your friends about how happy you are with our dental service.

I look forward to meeting you.

-Dr. Gary Sasaki, DDS, MS

734-482-7466

Dental Check Up ? How Often?

Fri, 30 Apr 2010 21:02:03 +0000

When is the last time you had a dental checkup? Most people in the Ann Arbor area between the ages of 40 and 80 need a dental checkup every six months. If you live in Ann Arbor and are at higher risk for oral diseases, you should have your teeth checked every four months, or at least three times a year.

Come into our office, located at 1900 Packard Rd. in Ann Arbor, or give us a call to make a dental appointment. You can visit our website at http://www.midentalspa.com for more information.

Most people in our Ann Arbor community are in a medium to low risk category. However if you use tobacco or alcohol, eat a lot of sugar in your diet (including lots of soda), or have poor oral hygiene habits, you are likely in a higher risk category and should have your teeth checked right away.

I look at a lot of factors to determine your personal dental hygiene, and your dental outlook for your future. I want you to have the healthiest smile possible so that you can enjoy your teeth for many years without significant problems. If you live in the Ann Arbor area and are ready to have your teeth checked, please give Gary Sasaki DDS, MS a call.

Our comfortable, friendly, professional and relaxing staff will be ready to get you started with a dental checkup.

Talk to you soon.

Gary Sasaki, Dental check ups for the Ann Arbor community

The Dental Spa, Ypsilanti Michigan

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 16:13:59 +0000

My Business: The Dental Spa

Owner Gary Sasaki, The Dental Spa


Patients wouldn't usually expect to schedule a foot massage at the same time they plan on getting a root canal.
But giving patients an unexpectedly relaxing experience during a dental appointment is exactly why Gary Sasaki revamped his clinic five years ago. He renamed it The Dental Spa.
Along with traditional and cosmetic dentistry, Sasaki's business began to offer chair, hand and foot massages, paraffin wax dips, aromatherapy and snacks at the clinic. The change was one of many that were long overdue, he said.
That's because, for the first 25 years of his career, Sasaki had no formal business training.
"I was focused on being a dentist," Sasaki said. "But I started to think something was missing."

Alan Warren | The Ann Arbor NewsPatient Michelle Henderson from Howell watches a television show with Eye Chair T.V. with viewing glasses as she gets some dental work done by Dr. Gary Sasaki during her visit at Dental Spa in Ypsilanti.

Sasaki began taking dental business courses and making changes that improved the business' finances and attracted more patients.
Growth plans: "Our plans for 2009 include the addition of another dentist, a physical expansion that will include a meditation room and acupuncture services to reduce anxiety and discomfort."
Biggest aspiration: "Continue my quest of uncovering the connections between oral health and overall health, so professionals in this industry can better contribute to the wellness of our patients."
Why he sees art in dentistry: "When you get to know what teeth look like, actually, they're works of art and they're quite beautiful. The curves and the lines and the way the teeth fit together - it's amazing how you're born with 32 teeth and they each come with a function."
If he weren't doing this, he'd be: "Visiting spas of the world and playing golf."
Favorite place he's traveled: "Thailand. The opportunity to visit their spas and meet the people was an incredible experience."
Business philosophy: "You only get out of it what you put into it. Learn your craft, treat people with respect, seek help in areas outside of your expertise and give back when you are able to."
Advice he would give someone starting their own business: "Nothing is more important than impeccable service. People will remember those special touches and you will create loyal clients for life."
Contact: www.midentalspa.com or 734-482-7466.

Alan Warren | The Ann Arbor NewsDr. Gary Sasaki, right, does some dental work on patient Michelle Henderson, of Howell, as massage therapist Rob Stolerow, left, gives her a foot massage at Dental Spa in Ypsilanti on Nov. 26. Lisa Christner, center, assists Dr. Sasaki. Henderson is also watching a DVD during her treatment.

The Dental Spa- “They Brought Back My Smile”

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 15:18:08 +0000



3 Ways Teeth Whitening Can Improve Lives
Tue, 23 Mar 2010 13:43:35 +0000


Think about the last time someone took a photo of you. Did you show your full smile? Or, did you keep your lips closed? Did you smile the last time you met someone new? If not, would you like to change that? Teeth whitening may be the answer, and our team here at The Dental Spa can help. Patients and friends often talk to us about how teeth whitening has changed their lives!
First, people who have had their teeth whitened talk about how much better they feel about themselves. It was amazing what a brightened smile did for one of our patients from Ann Arbor. After having her teeth whitened, she smiles more, she’s more confident, and she feels far more comfortable in all social situations.
Second, overall appearance is dramatically improved. Your mouth and eyes are the main focal points of your face, and teeth whitening not only improves your smile, but also enhances other facial features as well.
Third, a patient from Dexter told us about good things that have happened in his business since his teeth whitening. When he meets new clients, the experiences are more positive and engaging because of his confidence. A bright, attractive smile inspires trust.
Make an appointment today with Dr. Gary Sasaki by clicking on the blue button and see what professional whitening program can do for you! You’ll receive a Smiles For Life discount, AND ALL proceeds go to children’s charities to help children in need—including our local charity partner, Children and Family Life at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital in Ann Arbor. Remember to become a fan on our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter. If you have questions, call our Smiles For Life office coordinator, Shelley, directly at 734-482-7466.
And PLEASE share this remarkable offer and opportunity with your family members, friends, and coworkers!
Keep smiling!
-Dr. Gary Sasaki and The The Dental Spa Team




Tooth-Colored Fillings in Ann Arbor
Thu, 18 Mar 2010 20:01:29 +0000
 Hello! Welcome to the Gary Sasaki DDS, MS blog. If this is your first visit, we hope you find useful information about our Ann Arbor cosmetic dentistry practice.  If you have read some of our previous articles, we are glad you checked back with us. We post new articles regularly.
My name is Dr. Gary Sasaki, DDS, MS.  I have been practicing dentistry in Ann Arbor since 1971. The Dental Spa is a full-service dental office located at 1900 Packard Rd.,  in Ypsilanti. In addition to providing comprehensive examinations and deep cleanings for clients in the Ann Arbor area, we perform all types of tooth restorations.
When a tooth has decay or has been damaged, a dental restoration is needed to ‘restore’ the tooth to its previous intact condition. A dental filling is one of the most common and well-known types of restorations. A dental filling is used to repair decayed or damaged tooth surfaces. Most people have a few fillings in their mouth.
If you have old silver amalgam fillings, we can replace them with nearly-invisible tooth colored fillings. These fillings are made out of a strong composite resin. Many of our cosmetic dentistry patients have replaced their old silver fillings with fillings matched to their teeth.  You can improve your smile instantly and relatively inexpensively by getting rid of the ‘metal’.
Another reason some clients have had their old fillings replaced is because they are concerned about the possible heavy metal toxicity of the mercury in the silver.
If you would like to replace your amalgam fillings, call us at 734-482-7466 to schedule a consultation. We are currently accepting new patients and would be happy to show you around our Ann Arbor cosmetic dental office and introduce you to our friendly team.
Smile – it increases your face value!



Local Dentistry
Fri, 12 Mar 2010 02:38:16 +0000
Gary Sasaki, DDS, MS specializes in  local dentistry to provide that special dental care 
to our Ypsilanti, Michigan dental patients.
The Dental Spa provides local dentistry services to our neighboring areas including Saline, Belleville and Ann Arbor.
Our most popular  local dentistry  procedure is cosmetic dentistry.
You can contact Dr. Gary Sasaki about cosmetic dentistry or any other local dentistry service by calling us at (734) 482-7466.
If you live in the 48197 zip code area, and are looking for a ‘home town dentist’ who provides  dentistry  to the Ann Arbor, Michigan area, click on any of the links on this page, give us a call at (734) 482-7466, or stop by and visit. You can find us at 1900 Packard Road, in Ypsilanti, Michigan.
We’re your lifelong dental health partner.



Adios Julie and Sue!
Wed, 10 Mar 2010 14:52:27 +0000
  



On March 5th Julie and Sue are heading to the Dominican Republic with the Smiles for Hope organization.  They will be providing dental care to the “poorest of the poor.” 




 
Here are some statements to think about.  You have:
*1 in 2 chances of living in a non-democratic country.
*1 in 5 chances of living in China.
*1 in 10 chances of dying of malnutrition.
*1 in 4 chances of never learning to read, and
*1 in 10 chances of living in a mud hut.
 
Closely related to this illustration is this fact:  If you have any of the 3 of the following 4 conditions in your life, you are in the top 10% of the worlds’s most affluent:
1. Your own means of transportation (this could include bicycles).
2. A menu choice for your next meal (besides rice or beans).
3. More than one pair of shoes.
4. A change of underwear.
 
It does give us cause to consider if we are making the most of what we have been given through the choices we have made or the sacrifices of our parents and others.








  



  



  



  



  



  
 
Thank you to everyone who contributed to our 2009 Smiles for Life campaign.  Donations funded C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital’s Child and Family Life Fund and Julie and Sue’s humanitarian trip. 
 

If you are interested in participating in our 2010 Smiles for Life campaign please call our office for more information at 734-482-7466 or click here.

 
Please follow their trip daily by checking out the website below:
www.crowncouncil.blogspot.com