Dr. Sasaki’s Dental Blog

January 6, 2012

Tooth Ache Pain The Size of Ypsilanti

Filed under: Dental Health — Tags: , , , — @ 10:20 am

Ann Arbor Tooth Whitening Patients often come into our cosmetic dental practice and complain about ‘a toothache the size of Ypsilanti’. I understand this kind of pain, and realize that when you describe it like that, it really hurts. I can help.

Toothache pain for anyone in Ypsilanti can be unbearable. At the very least, toothache pain can cause you to avoid eating certain foods, certain temperatures, and even talking. Severe toothache pain can be downright debilitating, forcing patients to go to extreme measures to alleviate the pain.

Around the Ypsilanti area, the most common causes of a toothache include tooth infection, decay, injury, and loss of a tooth. Tooth pain can also occur after a tooth has been extracted, or after an oral surgery involving anything from a tooth or your jawbone.

I can help you better understand the source of your tooth ache pain, and in most cases can provide a nearly immediate remedy. In severe cases, we are equipped to council you on a variety of resolutions.

Of course, the best way to avoid toothache pain is to visit your Ypsilanti dentist often, and to care properly for your teeth including the regular regimen of brushing and flossing.

Our office offers a wide variety of dental procedures that can alleviate your dental pain, and restore your smile that may be affected by tooth extraction or decay. We offer cosmetic and restorative dentistry, including porcelain veneers, dental implants and crowns. We also provide our clients with a dental spa in order to relax more fully while receiving dental treatments.

If you are experiencing toothache pain, and just can’t stand it any more, please give me a call; I am standing by to help.

-Gary Sasaki, DDS, MS

734-482-7466

December 16, 2011

Don’t Take Stress Out On Your Teeth, Ann Arbor

Filed under: Dental Health — Tags: , , , — @ 10:53 am

Don't Take Stress Out On Your Teeth Ann Arbor Hello, I’m Dr. Gary Sasaki. At my Ann Arbor dental spa, I have noticed more and more of my patients with stress-related dental issues. Ann Arbor men and women may not think about it, but stress can do a number on your oral health.

Mouth sores, clenching and grinding, gum disease, and poor oral hygiene can all be exacerbated by stress.

Ann Arbor people who have difficulty managing stress need to realize that it can increase the risk of getting mouth sores such as cankers and cold sores. Most canker sores only last 7-10 days, but for relief from the irritation, we recommend our patients pick up an over-the-counter topical anesthetic at any local Ann Arbor drug store.

Clenching and grinding the teeth is common for stressed-out Ann Arbor residents, and often it’s done unconsciously. Here at Gary Sasaki DDS, MS our comfortable, friendly, professional and relaxing staff can determine if a night guard or other dental appliance is appropriate to reduce grinding.

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is exacerbated by stress because stress can result in an increase in dental plaque.

And Ann Arbor cosmetic dental patients may find that when they are under stress it is more common to neglect their oral hygiene habits. Many people in the Ann Arbor area find that they eat more sugary snacks when they’re under stress.

If you’re concerned about the effect stress can have on your teeth, schedule an appointment at Gary Sasaki DDS, MS today. We treat patients from age 40 to 80 and we offer cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, porcelain veneers, dental crowns and more. We hope to hear from you soon!

Dr. Gary Sasaki
Gary Sasaki DDS, MS
1900 Packard Rd
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48197
734-482-7466
http://midentalspa.com/about_drs.htm

December 9, 2011

Soft, Medium, or Buzz Lightyear?

Filed under: Dental Health — Tags: , , , — @ 10:15 am

Affordable Dentistry in Ann Arbor At Gary Sasaki DDS, MS, cosmetic dentist Dr. Gary Sasaki is often asked how to choose the most basic tool of oral hygiene, the toothbrush. Picking a toothbrush in Ypsilanti can be as difficult as choosing a paint color, and there seems to be just as many choices.

If you have visited the dental section of your local Ypsilanti grocery store or Walmart lately, you know what I am talking about. There are brushes with bristles of varying lengths, brushes that massage your gums, and brushes that change color when they are used up. (If I had to rate them purely on their fun factor, I would choose the Spiderman brush.)

Some toothbrush manufacturers claim their brushes freshen your breath or remove stains from your teeth when used with teeth whitening toothpaste. How do you choose?

One key factor is the firmness of the bristles. Hard bristles may be more effective for cleaning burnt steak off a grill or hard water deposits off a shower floor. However, this does not hold true for your teeth. Medium and firm brushes can damage your gums. Soft and extra-soft bristles are plenty stiff enough to clean plague, food particles, and surface stains from your teeth. Soft bristles also offer more flexibility for hard-to-reach nooks and crannies.

After having dental work (like the full mouth rehabilitation available at Gary Sasaki DDS, MS) or oral surgery in Ypsilanti, especially anything involving soft tissue grafts, make sure you use an extra-soft brush and be careful!

What about the electric types and water-shooters? Some Ypsilanti folks like the feeling of vibrating bristles or a mini-squirt gun blasting away at the plaque. Ypsilanti people with arthritis or other movement-inhibiting conditions can benefit from powered brushes which take some strain off hands and arm muscles.

Is your toothbrush doing the job? Schedule an exam with your Ypsilanti cosmetic dentist at Gary Sasaki DDS, MS.

At Gary Sasaki DDS, MS, our comfortable, friendly, professional and relaxed dental hygienists instruct our Ypsilanti area patients on proper brushing and flossing. If you haven’t experienced a dental deep cleaning at Gary Sasaki DDS, MS, you don’t know how clean your teeth and gums can feel.

Schedule a thorough dental cleaning today by calling us at Gary Sasaki DDS, MS, 734-482-7466. An outstanding feature of Gary Sasaki DDS, MS is dental spa service to make our patients as comfortable as possible. We also offer porcelain veneers, dental crowns and bridges and a full spectrum of restorative dental procedures.

November 18, 2011

Help Me Ann Arbor; I’m Afraid Of The Dentist!

Filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry — Tags: , , , — @ 9:37 am

Ypsilanti Sleep Dentistry If you are afraid of your Ann Arbor cosmetic dentist, you are not alone. At Gary Sasaki DDS, MS, we encounter many nervous first-time Ann Arbor dental patients. How do we calm their fears, provide a comfortable dental environment and earn lifelong clients?

1) We carefully explain the findings of the initial dental examination and thoroughly outline any recommended procedures. The consultation also includes a discussion about pain control. This allows our Ann Arbor dentistry clients to make informed decisions about their oral health and necessary dental procedures.

2) Dr. Gary Sasaki practices gentle, pain-free dentistry. Ann Arbor cosmetic dentistry treatment will not begin until you are numb. Keep in mind, however, that every dentistry patient reacts to numbing agents differently.

Speak up quickly if you start to feel discomfort. We will pause treatment, administer additional analgesic and wait until it takes effect. At Gary Sasaki DDS, MS, we never rush cosmetic dental or restorative procedures.

We will do our best to make you comfortable, whether you are receiving dental veneers, undergoing crown-lengthening treatment, having your teeth whitened, or replacing your old silver fillings.

3) We provide many in-office amenities in our dental spa at Gary Sasaki DDS, MS  which help our dental patients focus on something pleasant during cosmetic dental treatment. Sometimes chemical-free diversions such as listening to your favorite music provide a diversion while letting you remain clear-headed.

At Gary Sasaki DDS, MS, we understand dental anxiety and will help you overcome it. We are located at 1900 Packard Rd in Ypsilanti, 48197.

To schedule a friendly consultation, call 734-482-7466 or visit http://www.midentalspa.com.

October 26, 2011

Celebrity Smiles Without The Annoying Paparazzi In Ypsilanti

Filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry — Tags: , , , — @ 6:12 pm

Cosmetic Dentistry Ypsilanti

Hello friends of Gary Sasaki DDS, MS!

Close your eyes. Picture the most beautiful smile you have ever seen. Perhaps it is the smile of your significant other. Perhaps it is your favorite actor, actress, or singer. What makes this smile memorable? The brilliant color? The beautiful translucency? The pleasing shape? The alignment of the teeth? All of the above?

Would you like a smile as memorable as the image in your mind? It’s possible with cosmetic dentistry at Gary Sasaki DDS, MS in Ypsilanti.

Dr. Gary Sasaki skillfully redesigns smiles to correct alignment, dull color, damage, and stains.

Cosmetic dental procedures include the ever-popular porcelain veneers (gives teeth a brand new face), crown restorations, teeth whitening, and dental bonding (affordable and effective). We also offer tooth-colored fillings and cosmetic implants.

You can have a billboard-perfect smile right here in Ypsilanti.

The very same cosmetic dental procedures used on famous smiles is available at Gary Sasaki DDS, MS. A celebrity salary and jet-setting lifestyle may be out of reach, but not a red carpet-worthy smile.

Come in for a smile design consultation to learn what cosmetic dentistry can do for your world class smile! If you are nervous about seeing the dentist, we provide many relaxing amenities in our dental spa. Call 734-482-7466 to book your appointment today.

Dr. Gary Sasaki
Gary Sasaki DDS, MS
1900 Packard Rd
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48197
http://www.midentalspa.com

October 21, 2011

Cosmetic Dentistry vs. General Dentistry In Ann Arbor

Filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry — Tags: , , , , — @ 12:21 pm

Ann Arbor Cosmetic Dentistry Hello, I’m Dr. Gary Sasaki. Welcome to my Ann Arbor cosmetic dentistry blog. Today’s article focuses on the difference between general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry.

General dentists in Ann Arbor are dedicated to preventing and treating oral disease such as cavities and gum disease. When a problem is diagnosed, let’s say, a cavity between two teeth, a general dentist will assess the best way to restore the tooth involved.

Ann Arbor cosmetic dentists perform elective dental procedures that make a smile more attractive. Cosmetic dentistry procedures available at Gary Sasaki DDS, MS in Ann Arbor include teeth whitening, tooth-colored fillings, dental bonding, veneers, inlays, onlays, and dental crowns.

Some Ann Arbor dentists, like myself, offer both general and cosmetic dentistry procedures. In some cases, there is a cosmetic component to restorative procedures. For example, if a Ann Arbor dental patient comes in after receiving an injury that chipped a front tooth, the tooth needs to be restored to prevent decay. The tooth is also less structurally sound, so it is vulnerable to further damage. In addition, the tooth affects the overall appearance of the smile. Depending on the specifics of the damage, there are several of restorative options. Dental bonding, porcelain veneers, and crowns are all used to repair a damaged tooth.

As you can see, there is not always a definitive line between general and cosmetic dentistry. At Gary Sasaki DDS, MS, my comfortable, friendly, professional and relaxing team provides the full spectrum of preventative, cosmetic and restorative dentistry procedures.

Experienced Ann Arbor dental professionals who perform  general and cosmetic dental procedures can meet all of your dental needs.

If you are looking for a full-service dental spa in the Ann Arbor area, I invite you to come into Gary Sasaki DDS, MS. We are located at 1900 Packard Rd, Ann Arbor. To schedule an oral examination or smile makeover consultation, call 734-482-7466.

Dr. Gary Sasaki
Gary Sasaki DDS, MS
1900 Packard Rd
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48197
http://www.midentalspa.com

October 7, 2011

Ouch! Are Your Teeth Sensitive In Ann Arbor?

Filed under: Dental Health — Tags: , , — @ 12:13 pm

Are Your Teeth Sensitive In Ann Arbor?

For those of you in the Ann Arbor area who feel pain when you sip your morning coffee or who cringe each time you brush or floss, Dr. Gary Sasaki DDS, MS is here for you.

Doctor Gary Sasaki has been treating this common problem since 1971.

The first line of defense against tooth sensitivity is proper oral hygiene. Incorrect brushing and over-brushing can result in receding gums, which leads to the exposure of microscopic tubules in the dentin. When these tubules are exposed, acidic, hot, cold, and sticky foods can then reach the nerve cells in the teeth causing discomfort.

Here in our Ann Arbor cosmetic dentistry practice, our knowledgeable staff can determine if your brushing style is contributing to your tooth sensitivity and get you on your way to proper oral care habits.

Dr. Gary Sasaki usually recommends an over-the-counter desensitizing toothpaste that will alleviate tooth pain after several applications. Most Ann Arbor Wal-Mart and Sav-On stores carry it. However, some Ann Arbor patients may need in-office procedures such as fluoride gel treatments available at Gary Sasaki DDS, MS.

Don’t worry if you have sensitive teeth in Ann Arbor and want to have your teeth whitened. Here at Gary Sasaki DDS, MS, Dr. Sasaki can determine which professional tooth whitening or at-home whitening procedures will work for you.

Call our Ann Arbor dental spa today to get relief from your sensitive teeth.

 


Dr. Gary Sasaki
Gary Sasaki DDS, MS
1900 Packard Rd
Ann Arbor Michigan 48197
734-482-7466
http://midentalspa.com/about_drs.htm

September 23, 2011

General Dentistry in Ann Arbor

Filed under: General Dentistry — Tags: , , , — @ 11:42 am

Ann Arbor General Dentistry What is ‘ General Dentistry ‘? Here are a couple definitions, found from around the web:

The World Health Organization defines General Dentistry as “the science and art of preventing, diagnosing and treating diseases, injuries and malformations of the teeth, jaws and mouth”.

According to Wikipedia :

A dentist is a healthcare professional qualified to practice dentistry after graduating with a degree of either Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD), Bachelor of Dentistry (BDent), Bachelor of Dental Science (BDSc), or Bachelor of Dental Surgery/Chirurgiae (BDS) or (BChD) or equivalent.

In most western countries, to become a qualified dentist one must usually complete at least 4 years of postgraduate study. Generally, 2 years of clinical experience working with patients in an educational setting are required.

If you have a need for anything from general dentistry to full mouth rehabilitation in the Ann Arbor area, please give our practice a call. We are Gary Sasaki DDS, MS, and our general and cosmetic dentistry office is located at:

1900 Packard Rd
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48197

We provide general dentistry services to the greater Ann Arbor area, which includes general dentistry services for anyone in neighboring areas.

Give us a call at 734-482-7466 to schedule a general dentistry appointment in Ann Arbor, or to ask questions about general dentistry.

A Dental Spa to Transform Your Smile, Relax Your Body, and Rejuvenate

July 29, 2011

Healthy Teeth in Ann Arbor

Filed under: Dental Implants — Tags: , , — @ 8:20 pm

Implant Anchored Dentures in Ann Arbor Are you one of the fortunate Ypsilanti people with healthy teeth? Would you like to keep them healthy for the rest of your life? Many Ypsilanti dental clients believe that keeping their teeth healthy into the golden years is unlikely if not impossible.

At Gary Sasaki DDS, MS, we are happy to assure you that this is a myth. With proper dental hygiene, regular dental exams and cleanings, and a healthy lifestyle, your teeth can serve you throughout your life.

At Gary Sasaki DDS, MS, we help clients of all ages, including those in their seventies and eighties, maintain their beautiful smiles. Dentures are not inevitable. Even if you already wear dentures, don’t give up.

You can improve your smile and your life with dental implants available in Ypsilanti at our state-of-the-art cosmetic dental practice.

These new fixed dentures won’t slip and slide in your mouth, so you can start eating confidently again.

Our office is friendly and relaxed. You don’t need to worry about being embarrassed if your teeth have not seen a dentist or hygienist for a while. We can treat your dental problems and put you on the path for better oral health in the future.  We also offer dental spa treatments.

Remember, without dental health, you are never truly healthy. Call 734-482-7466.

January 13, 2011

Cavity Fighting Chewing Gum For Our Ann Arbor Patients?

Filed under: Dental Health — Tags: , , — @ 7:24 pm

Ann Arbor Oral Dentistry I’m Dr. Gary Sasaki DDS, MS of Gary Sasaki DDS, MS in Ann Arbor. My Ann Arbor dentistry clients often ask me if chewing xylitol gum is an effective substitute for tooth brushing and regular Ann Arbor dental exams.

Before I answer that question, let me tell you a little bit about xylitol:

Xylitol is a natural sweetener that was first discovered in birch tree bark but is also found in many fruits and vegetables. Unlike most other sweeteners (natural or synthetic), xylitol is actually good for your teeth. Numerous clinical studies have demonstrated that xylitol prevents the growth of the bacteria that initiates decay. It also reduces plaque and strengthens tooth enamel.

Xylitol has other benefits, as well. Because it is low on the glycemic index, many of my Ann Arbor diabetic patients enjoy it as a healthy alternative to sugar. If my Ann Arbor cosmetic dentistry patients complain about frequent dry mouth, I recommend Xylitol gum or mints to stimulate saliva production without promoting tooth decay.

Now, back to the golden question. Is xylitol gum just as effective as brushing your teeth and seeing your Ann Arbor family dentist regularly? Absolutely not! If you cannot brush your teeth after a meal, chewing xylitol gum for five or ten minutes is probably a good idea. However, you should still brush your teeth thoroughly (with a soft brush) after meals and get twice-yearly exams and oral dentistry deep cleanings at your Ann Arbor dentistry clinic.

At Gary Sasaki DDS, MS, our goal is to keep your smile healthy and beautiful for life by preventing dental problems before they start. If you postpone Ann Arbor dental visits until you feel pain, you risk losing teeth and most certainly will require more extensive treatment than if the problem was caught earlier. Is it time for a dental exam? Call us at 734-482-7466 to book an appointment. Our comfortable, friendly, professional and relaxing is waiting to take care of all your dental needs.  Come relax in our dental spa while we complete your dental work.

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