Blanco Circle Dental Care Blog
Repair Your Smile with a Crown & Bridge in Salinas, CA
January 22, 2015
If you are missing teeth—even if you are only missing one tooth—then you know the consequences can be dire. You may be reluctant to speak or smile because you are self-conscious about missing teeth. And then there is the issue of not having a fully nutritious diet because you are unable to eat certain foods, such as raw fruits and vegetables. Obviously, replacing missing teeth is imperative. Fortunately, Dr. Gary Klugman and Dr. Christina Bianco of Blanco Circle Dental Care in Salinas, CA, are highly experienced in the art of crown and bridge restorations.
What is a Crown and Bridge?
A bridge is a prosthetic dental device that spans the gap left by a missing tooth or teeth. The gap is filled with what is called a pontic, or false tooth. The bridge is firmly held in place by crowns that are attached to the teeth on either side of the gap. Hence, the complete prosthetic is commonly referred to as a crown and bridge.
If you and your dentist determine that a crown and bridge is your best option for tooth replacement, then we’ll take x-rays and impressions of the area that is missing teeth in order to fabricate a bridge that looks natural with your other teeth. The anchor teeth—those on either side of the missing tooth—will be prepared for crowns. Another impression of the prepared teeth will be taken in order to ensure the bridge fits snuggly in place. While your custom crown and bridge is made in a dental lab, we’ll give you a temporary to wear. Then, in a few weeks, you’ll return to the office of Blanco Circle Dental care to have your permanent crown and bridge fitted and cemented into place.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you would like to learn more about a crown and bridge for tooth replacement, call the office of Blanco Circle Dental Care in Salinas, CA. Our dentists and their team also serve patients from Hollister, Monterey, Seaside, Prunedale, Marina, Greenfield, Gilroy and King City and beyond.
Have the Smile of Your Dreams with Porcelain Veneers from Blanco Circle Dental Care
January 8, 2015
2015: New Year, new beginning, clean slate. Why not a new smile? If you’ve only dreamt of having a beautiful, white, straight smile, then dream no more. Dr. Gary Klugman and Dr. Christina Bianco at Blanco Circle Dental Care in Salinas, CA, can give you that dreamy smile with porcelain veneers.
Porcelain veneers are a modern dental wonder. Composed of layer upon ultra-thin layer of dental porcelain or composite resin, porcelain veneers—also call dental veneers—are cemented to your front teeth. Veneers not only give you a new and beautiful smile, they also conceal the imperfections of your old smile: chipped or mildly cracked teeth, stained teeth and crooked teeth.
Porcelain Veneers: Natural Looking and Comfortable
Once you and your dentist at Blanco Circle Dental Care determine that porcelain veneers are the best cosmetic procedure for you, then you are likely just two appointments away from having that new smile. At your first visit, we’ll need to take an impression of your teeth, photos and possibly x-rays in order to design veneers that are a match to your mouth, jaw and face. We’ll also need to moderately prep your teeth for porcelain veneers by removing a small amount of your teeth’s enamel surface. This way, the veneers will lay flush with your other teeth.
While your permanent veneers are precisely fabricated in a dental lab, you’ll wear temporary veneers. Then in a few weeks when your veneers are ready, you’ll return to our office to have them cemented to your front teeth. If necessary, the dentist will carefully trim the veneers for a perfect fit and a perfect smile for the New Year!
Call Our Office Today
If you would like to learn more about porcelain veneers, or to schedule a consultation, call the office of Blanco Circle Dental Care in Salinas, CA, today. We also conveniently serve patients in Hollister, Monterey, Seaside, Prunedale, Marina, Greenfield, Gilroy and King City and beyond.
Relieve Tooth Pain and Sensitivity with Root Canal Therapy from Blanco Circle Dental Care
December 22, 2014
As dental procedures go, root canals have a bad reputation. That’s because most patients don’t realize the profound benefits of root canal therapy. Root canal therapy cannot only immediately relieve toothache pain and discomfort, but can also save your natural teeth from extraction. Make an appointment with the experienced family and restorative dentists of Blanco Circle for the root canal therapy you need today. Dr. Klugman and Dr. Bianco can compassionately perform your root canal therapy procedure. Blanco Circle Dental Care proudly serves families throughout Salinas, CA, Hollister, Monterey, Seaside, Prunedale, Marina, Greenfield, Gilroy, King City, and the surrounding areas.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
During a root canal therapy procedure the dentist will remove infected pulp from the center of your damaged tooth to prevent the spread of infection to your surrounding healthy teeth. The pulp chambers or “canals” are then disinfected, shaped, filled, and sealed for protection. A successful root canal therapy procedure should eliminate any tooth pain and discomfort and save the tooth from developing an abscess or needing eventual extraction.
When Do You Need Root Canal Therapy?
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may need root canal therapy:
- Any level of localized tooth pain or discomfort ranging from just slight to extreme, with throbbing.
- Tooth pain that lessens or intensifies as you change position.
- Pain in response to chewing, biting, or pressing on the tooth.
- Completely spontaneous tooth pain.
- Pain triggered by hot or cold beverages.
- Pain that lingers for only a few minutes, before finally fading.
- Pain that last for hours on end.
- Pain that keeps you from having a peaceful night’s sleep.
Root Canal Therapy Appointments in Salinas, CA
Tooth infections can only worsen over time. Don’t wait until it’s too late to get your infected teeth treated. Make an appointment with Dr. Klugman and Dr. Bianco for the root canal therapy that can save your natural teeth. Blanco Circle Dental Care proudly restores smiles daily throughout Salinas, CA, Hollister, Monterey, Seaside, Prunedale, Marina, Greenfield, Gilroy, King City, and nearby areas.
Teeth Whitening for a Brighter Holiday Smile
December 8, 2014
If you dread hearing the words, “Say Cheese!” each holiday season, it’s time to make a change. Everyone deserves a bright and confident smile for their holiday photos. If you are less than satisfied with the color, hue, or brightness of your smile, you can make an appointment with Dr. Klugman and Dr. Bianco of Blanco Circle Dental Care today for quick and effective professional teeth whitening treatment. Blanco Circle proudly restores smiles daily throughout Salinas, CA, Hollister, Monterey, Seaside, Prunedale, Marina, Greenfield, Gilroy, King City, and the surrounding communities.
What Are Your Teeth Whitening Options?
- Teeth Whitening Toothpaste- Although there are many brands of toothpaste on the market claiming to be able to whiten your teeth, none of them actually can. These products only contain mild abrasives which are barely able to polish away the shallow surface stains left by your morning cup of coffee. Whitening toothpastes are only effective as a maintenance tool used in between more effective teeth whitening treatments.
- Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening– These products come in many varieties including whitening rinses, strips, gels, and take-home trays; however, it can take several weeks of daily use before you can achieve the same results as one application of a professional teeth whitening product. Because of this, there is also a high risk of gum irritation and infection.
- Professional Teeth Whitening– Blanco Circle offers both in-office and take-home professional teeth whitening options. Dr. Klugman and Dr. Bianco use the Opalescence teeth whitening system with comfortable and customized whitening trays and professional-grade teeth whitening solution; as well as instructions for proper use. They can also provide protection from irritation if you have sensitive teeth and gums.
Blanco Circle Bright White Forever Teeth Whitening Program
Blanco Circle now offers free teeth whitening for life to patients who meet certain requirements. In this program you will receive the take-home custom whitening trays and professional bleaching gel refills to use at your leisure for life. Participation in the Bright White Forever program is simple. All you need to do is:
- Come in for regular dental hygiene appointments at least once every six months and
- Give at least 48 hours notice for dental appointment cancellations
Holiday Teeth Whitening Appointments in Salinas, CA
If you’ve been hiding your smile, Blanco Circle Dental Care can help you shine bright this holiday season with safe and effective professional teeth whitening in just one visit. Make an appointment with the experienced cosmetic dentists of Blanco Circle today, to correct any cosmetic dental imperfection. Dr. Klugman and Dr. Bianco proudly serve families throughout Salinas, CA, Hollister, Monterey, Seaside, Prunedale, Marina, Greenfield, Gilroy, King City, and nearby areas.
Dental Concerns at Every Age
November 22, 2014
Taking care of your teeth is important at every age. However, as our bodies change and we learn how to take care of our teeth, we can develop different oral health concerns. That’s why it’s so convenient to choose a dentist that specializes in family dentistry. No matter your age, the team at Blanco Circle Dental Care can address the needs of every member of your family, from baby’s first visit to helping you navigate whitening options, to fitting the grandparents for dentures. You can set up an appointment with Dr. Klugman and Dr. Bianco today at their Salinas, CA dentist office.
Children’s Dental Concerns
Children have a unique set of concerns as they grow and develop. After the teething stage, children will begin to lose their baby teeth. The most common concern at this point will be preventing tooth decay. The tooth enamel of a child is only about half as thick as an adult’s, which makes their teeth particularly susceptible to tooth decay. Once decay begins, it does more damage more quickly. If left undetected, it can rapidly form a cavity. It’s also important to keep your child’s plaque under control because if left untreated, it can make your children’s gums swollen so that they bleed when touched. This is the first stage of gingivitis (gum disease). Though these concerns are fairly common in children, improved brushing and regular cleaning by a dentist should combat these problems.
Teen Dental Concerns
As your child grows into a teenager, irregular tooth growth can become a major issue. The formation of over and under bites, crooked and misaligned teeth is a common problem among adolescents who may now require braces to correct these issues. Another common problem at this age is wisdom tooth extraction, or the removal of the third molar. Wisdom teeth come in sometime between the ages of 17 and 21. This process can be very painful if the teeth become impacted. Other dental problems may commonly arise at this age due to behavioral factors such as poor nutrition, eating disorders, smoking, oral piercings and illicit drug use. It’s extremely important to educate your teen on the added consequences of poor dental health when engaging in these behaviors.
Adult Dental Concerns
In addition to tooth decay, adult dental concerns may be aesthetic, or may be related to the development of certain dental conditions. Teeth grinding, or bruxism, occurs unconsciously while you sleep. It can cause serious damage to your teeth and jaw. Teeth grinding can be caused by stress or by sleep disorders. Teeth grinding can be treated by the dentist with a fitted mouthguard to protect your teeth while you sleep. A related disorder of the temporomandibular joints, or TMJ, is a common ailment for many adults. The TMJ is among the more complex joints in the body. Any misalignment of the teeth or jaw that prevents the TMJ from working properly may result in a painful disorder, also referred to as TMJ disorders or sometimes TMD. The cause of TMJ disorder is often unclear, but possible causes can include arthritis, dislocation, injury, or problems related to alignment or teeth grinding from stress. Symptoms of TMD include pain in or around the ear, tenderness of the jaw, clicking or popping noises when opening or closing the mouth and severe headaches.
Senior Dental Concerns
As we age keeping our teeth healthy can become more and more of a challenge. Seniors can have a particularly difficult time maintaining their oral health because of the side effects of their medical conditions or prescription drugs. Some medications and certain health conditions can lead to dry mouth. Dry mouth is a leading cause of tooth decay for seniors. It is not a normal part of aging, but it is a side-effect of more than 500 medications, including those for allergies or asthma, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, pain, anxiety or depression, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. The dentist can help seniors relieve the symptoms of dry mouth and treat the condition. Oral cancer can also become a concern at this time. The average age of most people diagnosed with these cancers is 62. Since early detection is a vital part of ensuring that treatment is effective, it’s especially important for seniors to see the dentist regularly.
Addressing Family Dental Concerns in Salinas, CA
There are important steps to take to maintain oral health at every age. However, no matter how old you are, it’s vitally important to visit the dentist regularly. Dr. Klugman and Dr. Bianco at Blanco Circle Dental Care understand the unique needs of their patients. Contact them today to schedule appointments for the whole family. Blanco Circle Dental Care proudly serves families throughout Salinas, CA, Hollister, Monterey, Seaside, Prunedale, Marina, Greenfield, Gilroy, and King City.
Study Shows Connection between Cavities and Oral Cancer
November 8, 2014
It’s widely recognized that having cavities is bad for your oral health. Recent studies, however, are shedding some interesting light on the correlation between dental decay and oral cancer. Your local Salinas, CA experts, Dr. Klugman and Dr. Bianco, can assist you in developing a healthy smile through preventative and restorative dental treatments.
Cavities and Oral Cancer Detection
A September 2013 study published in JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery by researchers at the University of Buffalo found that people with the most cavities were the least likely to have oral cancer. The researchers compared 399 patients with oral cancer with 221 cancer free patients. They found “… an independent association between dental caries [cavities] and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma [oral cancer cells]”, citing that the lactic acid produced by bacteria in cavities actually stop the development of these cancer cells. Researchers state that the bacteria are similar to those found in yogurt. In addition to preventing head and neck cancer, they can also help lower the risk of inflammatory diseases, allergies and some other types of cancer. Critics of the findings say that the results are preliminary and don’t distinguish between the causes of the cavities (periodontal disease) and don’t address the associated consequences of dental diseases that carry their own health risks. Other experts agreed, but noted that the findings could lead to new ways to treat and prevent oral cancers.
Oral cancer is a serious condition that must be detected early for positive treatment outcomes. Dentists screen for oral cancers as part of your regular dental checkup which is one reason why visiting the dentist every 6 months is vital to your good health. During an exam, the dentist will check your head, neck and the inside of your mouth for abnormal lumps, bumps, lesions and discolorations. If an abnormality is found, the dentist will take a tissue simple for analysis or send you to a specialist for further investigation. Increased risks for developing oral cancer include excessive consumption of tobacco products, alcohol and contraction of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
Cavity Prevention and Oral Cancer Screening in Salinas, CA
Whether you are concerned about cavities or oral cancer, it’s important to have regular dental checkups to protect your teeth and your overall health. The doctors at Blanco Circle Dental Care are happy to help you do so today. Contact Dr. Klugman and Dr. Bianco today to schedule your next visit. The doctors proudly serve residents in Salinas, CA, Hollister, Monterey, Seaside, Prunedale, Marina, Greenfield, Gilroy, and King City.
Restore Your Smile with Dental Implants
October 22, 2014
One thing that many people strive for is a beautiful, full smile. Having a beautiful smile is a symbol of health and youth, and many people consider a smile a first impression. Because of this, many people are willing to do whatever it takes in order to have a smile that looks amazing. Unfortunately, if you have a smile that is not complete, you may find it difficult to feel confident in the way you look, and could feel embarrassed when you are with other people. Though you may have considered dentures and partials as teeth replacements, you may be wanting a solution that is more permanent. Thankfully, Dr. Gary Klugman is able to give you the smile you have always wanted by offering dental implants at his Salinas, CA dental office.
The first step to getting your dental implants is a consultation with Dr. Klugman. He will have to evaluate your smile in its current state, assess your jaw bone density, and discuss how you would like your smile to look. During the consultation, you will be able to have any questions or concerns you may have addressed, and we want to be sure you are knowledgeable and comfortable throughout the entire process.
If you are a candidate for dental implants, a titanium screw-like post will be embedded into your jaw. As it heals, the post will fuse with the bone in your jaw, promoting new and healthy bone growth. This will also establish a strong hold, ensuring your new smile is stable and secure. After the healing period, the restoration, also known as a crown, is added atop the implant. The crown looks exactly like a tooth, so your new smile will look natural. At the end of the procedure, you are left with a beautifully full smile that you cannot wait to show off! If you would like Dr. Klugman’s help restoring your smile with dental implants, contact our office today!
At Blanco Circle Dental Care, Dr. Gary Klugman and Dr. Christina Bianco provide quality general, cosmetic and sedation dentistry services. Our Salinas, CA dental office serves patients from Hollister, Monterey, Seaside, Prunedale, Marina, Greenfield, Gilroy, and King City. Call us today to schedule your next appointment.
Children’s Dentistry at Blanco Circle For the Salinas, CA Community
October 8, 2014
At Blanco Circle, we understand that a dentist’s office is not necessarily your child’s favorite place to be. Especially if it is your child’s first time at our dental practice, they may not know what all involves a dental checkup. Between the strange sounds and the bright lights, your child may not know what to do. Dr. Christina Bianco understands how a child must feel walking into a dentist’s office, which is why she and our friendly and welcoming staff make a point to help your child feel welcomed and comfortable when coming in for their appointment. By offering children’s dentistry at our Salinas, CA dental office, we want to ensure the oral health of your entire family, even the youngest of members.
Many parents may not know when the right time is to bring their child in for their first appointment. We recommend bringing them in around the age of three. We want them to be as knowledgeable as possible when it comes to healthy oral care routines, as it will increase their chances of carrying those habits with them as they grow older.
One common practice in children’s dentistry is dental sealants. Because a child’s smile is much more susceptible to decay, we want to ensure that we give them the best chance in having a healthy smile for years to come, and sealants are great ways to ensure that. Dental sealants are plastic, thin coatings that are painted in the grooves of your child’s teeth, primarily the teeth that are located toward the back of the mouth. This prevents food particles and bacteria from settling in the grooves and causing tooth decay in your child’s smile.
Another aspect of children’s dentistry is fluoride treatments. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens teeth and delays the progression of tooth decay. Fluoride also attracts other minerals, all working in tandem to make your child’s smile healthy and strong! If you want to set your child’s appointment with Dr. Bianco and our amazing staff, contact our office today!
At Blanco Circle Dental Care, Dr. Gary Klugman and Dr. Christina Bianco provide quality general, cosmetic and sedation dentistry services. Our Salinas, CA dental office serves patients from Hollister, Monterey, Seaside, Prunedale, Marina, Greenfield, Gilroy, and King City. Call us today to schedule your next appointment.
Straighten Your Smile with ClearCorrect
September 24, 2014
The idea of living your days with traditional brackets with wires associated with traditional braces may be enough to deter you from seeking the orthodontic treatment you need. Though you want a straighter smile, having a mouth full of metal is unpleasant, and can be very uncomfortable. Although you may think nothing can be done to give you the straight smile of your dreams, Dr. Gary Klugman and Dr. Christina Bianco are able to align your smile seamlessly with ClearCorrect Invisible Braces.
ClearCorrect works through a series of nearly invisible straightening trays. Each tray symbolizes a new step in your straightening process, and they are custom made just for you. By having your trays made just for your smile, not only does this ensure amazing results, but it makes your orthodontic treatment personalized to you. The trays are practically undetectable on your smile, making it look like you are not wearing your trays at all! You are able to be discreet in your treatment while getting the straight smile you have been wanting. When you are ready to begin a new phase in your treatment, simply dispose of the tray you were wearing and apply the next one in the series. It is as simple as that!
One of the great benefits to ClearCorrect is that you will have better oral health than you would with traditional braces. When you need to brush, eat, floss, or drink, all you have to do is remove and reapply the tray when needed. Also, you are able to experience complete freedom in your diet with ClearCorrect. No food is off limits, allowing you to truly enjoy your treatment. If you would like our doctors to help align your smile using ClearCorrect, contact our office today!
At Blanco Circle Dental Care, Dr. Gary Klugman and Dr. Christina Bianco provide quality general, cosmetic and sedation dentistry services. Our Salinas, CA dental office serves patients from Hollister, Monterey, Seaside, Prunedale, Marina, Greenfield, Gilroy, and King City. Call us today to schedule your next appointment.
Have Healthy Gums with Gum Disease Therapy
September 10, 2014
Having healthy gums is essential to having a healthy overall smile, and many people are not aware of that fact. It takes more than having straight, bright teeth to signify that your smile is healthy, and beautiful pink gums are essential to healthy teeth. Though many people suffer from gum disease, many are not aware of it, and live life having a deteriorating smile. Thankfully, Dr. Gary Klugman and Dr. Christina Bianco are able to restore the health of your gums using gum disease therapy at their Salinas, CA dental office.
Along with being bad for your oral health, suffering from gum disease can also be detrimental to your overall health. If you do not take care of you gum disease, you put yourself at a higher risk of bone loss, tooth loss, bad breath, heart disease, stroke, dementia, and much more. If you are not sure whether or not you are living with gum disease, a few symptoms include gums that bleed when you brush or floss, red and swollen gums, discoloration of the gum tissue, and gums that are sensitive to the touch. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is imperative that you contact our doctors right away.
One way we are able to treat your gum disease is with scaling. By doing this, we are able to remove the bacterium that attacks your gum tissue from below the surface. We will also do root planing, which means we will smooth out the rough areas of your tooth’s root that have been affected by the bacteria in your smile. We will also take time to reinforce healthy oral care routines, as to make sure your smile stays healthy for as long as possible. If you would like our doctors to help you with your gum disease, contact our office today!
At Blanco Circle Dental Care, Dr. Gary Klugman and Dr. Christina Bianco provide quality general, cosmetic and sedation dentistry services. Our Salinas, CA dental office serves patients from Hollister, Monterey, Seaside, Prunedale, Marina, Greenfield, Gilroy, and King City. Call us today to schedule your next appointment.