While the basics of dental hygiene are the same at every age—brushing, flossing & healthy eating habits—risks and concerns for older adults are different than younger adults and kids. Read more
Top Dental Concerns for Seniors
How Braces Work
Braces are such a common treatment, we take it for granted that everyone knows how they work. However, we’ve realized that it may not be that obvious how this clever system of brackets and wires results in a straighter smile and a healthier bite alignment. Read more
How Effective Is Whitening Toothpaste?
The number of teeth whitening options available to patients just seems to grow and grow. With so many products and treatments available, it’s hard to know which are the most effective. Read more
How Your Teeth Got Their Names
What Causes Gum Recession
You may have heard of receding gums, but still need to know how to prevent it and what causes it. Many people first notice gum recession when their teeth start looking longer than they used to. Read more
Can You Name 5 Types of Dental Floss?
As dental professionals, we may get a little bit more excited about dental hygiene products that our patients, but the truth is that everyone should pay close attention when choosing which dental products to buy. Which toothbrush or toothpaste is best for you depends on your unique dental condition, but did you know that the same is true of floss? There are 5 main types of floss and each have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Waxed Floss
This is probably the product that comes to mind first if you think of dental floss. Dentists and hygienists tend to like waxed floss for its durability. It consists of nylon string coated in a wax that helps prevent the strands from shredding or breaking during use. The downside of this type of floss is the coating makes it hard to fit into tight spaces between particular snug teeth.
Un-Waxed Floss
Un-waxed is made of dozens of fine strands of nylon twisted into a single string. It’s lack of a wax coating makes it a little easier to get between teeth, but it’s more prone to fraying. Both waxed and un-waxed floss are good for people with relatively healthy teeth and gums, but people with limited dexterity may find it difficult to use.
Dental Tape
Like regular floss, dental tape comes in waxed and un-waxed varieties. This floss is wider and flatter than the string kind, which many people find makes it easier to use if their teeth are not tightly spaced. The brand Glide by Oral-B is a dental tape that many patients are familiar with.
Super floss
Super floss is like regular floss on both ends but has a thicker, fluffy section in the middle. This extra thick floss is meant for those with large gaps between their teeth or dental appliances such as bridges or braces. The ends of super floss are usually stiff to help with threading it between teeth or under bridgework.
Floss Holder
Floss holders are Y-shaped or E-shaped tools that have a small segment of floss string between two prongs at one end. This type of floss is much easier to use for those with limited dexterity. However, we don’t like that the small, taut section of floss can’t wrap around a tooth while flossing. And unlike the other types of floss, you can’t use a fresh section of floss between each set of teeth, which could transfer bacteria from one part of your mouth to another where it wasn’t present before.
If this seems like an overwhelming amount of choice, always feel free to ask us about what floss we recommend for you at your next visit to our dental practice. We’re always happy to give you advice on how to best care for your teeth at home on a daily basis.
Health Consequences of Crooked Teeth
Getting crooked teeth or a bad bite fixed isn’t just about vanity. A less-than-perfect smile can put you at risk for both dental and overall health issues. Getting your teeth straightened can benefit more than just your appearance! Read more
E-Cigarettes Are Still Bad for Your Teeth!
Electronic cigarettes and vaporizers have quickly become a trendy alternative to smoking, in large part because people believe they are safe to use. We’d like to send this vaping myth up in smoke. Read more
How Dentists Match the Color of a Dental Crown
Some patients may be surprised to know that many dentists consider themselves artists as much as medical professionals. And it’s no wonder: when it comes to creating beautiful and healthy smiles, Read more
Top 5 Don’ts for Denture Care
Caring for your dentures is very different from caring for your natural teeth. It’s important to know what not to do so your dentures stay looking good Read more
After earning a bachelor’s in dental surgery (BDS) in India in 2009, Dr. Mayank Sharma graduated with his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) at the University of California in San Francisco (UCSF). Dr. Mayank Sharma has extensive experience in general dentistry, acquired at UCSF as well as work he did in India & Australia. He also likes to work for the community & has contributions to The American Red Cross, The Indian Red Cross Society, Mission of Mercy project, & Community Dental Clinic at UCSF amongst numerous others.
With practices across Monterey county & beyond, Dr. Sumeet Singh is fulfilling his vision of providing trusted, comfortable & affordable dental care in a family oriented environment.
Dr. Michael Rice was born & raised in Southern California. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Physiological Sciences from UCLA before earning his doctorate degree from the Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC. Upon completing his education, Dr. Rice moved to Texas to fulfill his commitment as a U.S. Army dentist. There he also completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency & earned his Master’s Degree in Oral Biology. He now lives in Marina with his wife, Taryn, & dog, Tusker.
Adriana was born & raised on the Monterey Peninsula & received her AAS in Dental Hygiene from Cabrillo College in 2018. She is an active member of the California Dental Hygienist’s Association & prides herself in staying current with the latest research & information about dental care. She loves getting to know her patients & being able to educate them about their oral health. Many of her patients describe her as gentle yet very thorough. When Adriana is not practicing dental hygiene she loves to travel, try new restaurants, spend time with her family & friends, & attend sporting events!
Dr. Harleen Kaur is a general, restorative & cosmetic dentist who has been practicing dentistry since 2009. After achieving her Doctoral of Dental Surgery (DDS) from prestigious NYU she moved to California to establish her career. She devotes many days each year to continuing her education through seminars, study clubs & conferences in order to keep up to date with the latest changes & techniques in dentistry. She believes in giving & has been able to raise public awareness to deliver significant results that have left a lasting impact. Her refreshing personality helps put you at ease & feel comfortable during your dental visit. Dr. Kaur enjoys singing, reading, playing tennis & traveling with her husband & their son, Gurshan.
Dr. Priyanka Chitkul is a friendly & passionate dentist who provides a wide variety of dental services & is committed to providing the best patient care through high-quality service.