Digital Radiography at Boston Smile Center: Why We Use Digital X-Rays

June 6, 2014

Shutterstock Digital X RayX-ray technology has been utilized for decades in the dental industry, allowing doctors to view the intricate internal structures of the mouth in order to diagnose and treat oral health problems more effectively. Today’s more advanced technology, including digital x-rays, gives doctors even more power and precision when it comes to diagnostic and preventive treatments. At Boston Smile Center in Brookline, MA, Dr. Alan Sasson and his team offer digital radiography as part of our extensive menu of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry services.

Benefits of Digital Radiography

Unlike traditional x-rays that use film and must be developed using harsh chemicals, digital x-rays are captured quickly and displayed in mere minutes on a chairside screen so that you and Dr. Sasson can view them together. Patients who are able to actually see the images captured by the digital radiography machine are more likely to express an interest in their own oral health, asking more questions and learning about the ways they can better take care of their teeth and gums at home. Because everything is digital, there are no developing chemicals to dispose of, so it’s better for our environment as well.

Digital radiography is also superior to conventional film x-rays in that it exposes the patient to up to 90 percent less radiation per session. We always take your safety and comfort into consideration first, and we love that our choice to utilize digital x-rays offers this additional benefit.

Only the Best Technology for Our Patients

At Boston Smile Center, we believe that each and every patient that walks into our practice deserves the best treatment, the most compassionate care, and the most cutting-edge dental technology the industry can provide. That’s why we are constantly upgrading our facility with the most state-of-the-art equipment and technology, and passing the benefits along to you. Contact our office today to discover the advantages of digital radiography and our other patient-centric services, each customized to suit your individual needs and preferences. We proudly serve families from throughout Brookline, Somerville, Cambridge, Newton, and beyond.

Easing Anxiety in the Dental Chair with Patient Comfort Measures at Boston Smile Center

May 23, 2014

Shutterstock Happy Dental Patient (2)Fear of the dentist or dental treatment is common in both children and adults throughout the United States. Whether you dread the sights, smells, sounds, or sensations of oral healthcare visits, you need to know that you are in the right hands when you seek the treatment you need. At Boston Smile Center in Brookline, MA, Dr. Sasson and his team offer a variety of unique patient comfort measures to help you fully relax during your treatment, whether it is a simple cleaning or a more complex procedure.

Taking the Fear Out of Dentistry

There are many reasons that you may feel uncomfortable or even afraid of dental treatment, but we’re here to allay those fears for good. At Boston Smile Center, Dr. Sasson is committed to an entire open communication policy, always fully explaining your treatment in a way that is easy to understand. Patients who feel truly informed regarding their treatment are more likely to feel relaxed and at ease, both before and during their procedures.

In addition to creating a calm environment in our office, we happily offer special amenities to help you feel even more serene, including warm blankets, comfortable dental chairs, and wireless satellite headphones so that you can listen to calming music while we handle all of the work. In the event that your anxiety does require further intervention, a mild medication may be offered to ensure your absolute comfort until your procedure is complete.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

If you have been putting off the fundamental dental treatment you need due to anxiety, fear, or any other negative emotion associated with the dentist, we invite you to contact our office today. We look forward to showing you what a difference our unique approach to patient comfort can make in your next visit. Our warm, welcoming, family-friendly office in Brookline, MA proudly serves patients from throughout the surrounding areas as well, including Cambridge, Somerville, Chelsea, Newton, and more.

The Advanced Technology of the BIOLASE WaterLase Dental Laser at Boston Smile Center

April 2, 2014

Shutterstock Happy Dental PatientAs dental technology continues to advance, we believe that our patients deserve to reap the benefits of faster, more effective, and more comfortable care. At Boston Smile Center & Implant Dentistry in Brookline, MA, Dr. J. Alan Sasson utilizes the power of a highly sophisticated, water/air laser called WaterLase to give his patients the advantage when it comes to performing a variety of services.

The Benefits of BIOLASE WaterLase Technology

The discomfort and pain many patients associate with a traditional dental drill are actually caused by the vibration, heat, and pressure of the machine as it removes a portion of the tooth. With WaterLase, a precision laser does all the work with none of the undesirable side effects. Both soft and hard tissue (gums and tooth enamel) are meticulously manipulated by the laser with less pain, less bleeding, and fewer shots!

In addition, the healing process following WaterLase treatment is substantially improved as compared to traditional methods. Dr. Sasson can efficiently remove only the tissues necessary to treat the problem, leaving more of the tooth structure and gum tissue intact. WaterLase offers unparalleled effectiveness in a variety of applications, including:

  • Immediate treatment of cold sores
  • Cosmetic gum contouring
  • Treatment of periodontal disease in its early stages
  • Preparing decayed teeth to be filled
  • Relief from tooth and gum sensitivity

Discover the Difference for Yourself

If you’ve ever had a negative experience at the dentist’s office because of painful shots or uncomfortable drilling, you’re certainly not alone. These are common fears associated with even minor dental procedures. Thanks to Dr. Sasson and BIOLASE WaterLase technology, many of the services you receive at Boston Smile Center can be performed without the injections or drilling so many patients dread. Contact our office in Brookline, MA today to find out more about how our high-tech, high-touch approach can benefit you. We also proudly serve residents of the surrounding areas, including Boston, Chelsea, Newton, Somerville, Cambridge, and more. We can’t wait to show you how pleasant visiting the dentist can be!

Drink Alcohol? Read This Now!

March 17, 2014

shutterstock_104252507We have all heard that drinking soda and coffee can have long-lasting damaging effects on our teeth. But did you know that your nightcap can be just as bad?

Alcohol, just like coffee and soda, is acidic. Furthermore, alcohol temporarily reduces saliva production. Saliva plays an important role in dental health, removing bacteria and plaque from your teeth and gums. Removing plaque is important because more plaque equals more opportunity for bacterial acids to cause tooth decay.

So, what can you do about this unfortunate side effect of indulging in alcoholic beverages? As it turns out, you don’t need to cancel Happy Hours forever. Dilute the acidic content of your drink of choice by drinking water after each alcoholic beverage you consume. This technique will also help you remain hydrated. If you notice plaque build-up in spite of this precaution, contact Dr. Sasson and Boston Smile Center right away.

Are you already experiencing plaque build-up or tooth decay? Contact Boston Smile Center in Brookline, MA and let us help you take control of your dental health today. Dr. Sasson’s Brookline, MA office happily accepts patients from Cambridge, Boston, Newton, Chelsea, Somerville, and beyond!

Get Rid of Bad Breath Easily with Top Tips from Boston Smile Center

March 5, 2014

Shutterstock FlossingIf you’ve ever been the victim of an embarrassing situation because of bad breath, don’t worry – you are most certainly not alone. Millions of Americans suffer from the social awkwardness and personal discomfort associated with chronic bad breath, but the good news is that you don’t have to put up with it any longer. At Boston Smile Center in Brookline, MA, Dr. Sasson and his team can work with you to find the halitosis treatment that best fits your unique case with comprehensive general dentistry services.

Fresh Breath Tips that Really Work

In the majority of cases, a noticeably foul odor when you speak or exhale is caused by particles of food that have not been completely removed from the mouth. Acids, starches and bacteria cling to your tongue, gums, the insides of your cheeks and the surfaces of your teeth. Sometimes, popping a breath mint or chewing a piece of gum seems to help, but the effects are typically temporary and not as effective as you’d like. This is because the underlying cause of the odor must be addressed rather than masked with artificial fresheners.

To combat bad breath at its source, Dr. Sasson and his team suggest keeping the following in mind:

  • Consider your food. Certain foods are more likely to result in a less-than-fresh mouth than others. Fish, meat and dairy products – particularly milk and cheese – are among the most common offenders. If a toothbrush and mouthwash aren’t readily available, try rinsing your mouth with water after eating these types of food.
  • Floss, floss, floss! Many people are perfectly good about brushing regularly, but tend to skimp on the flossing and mouthwash because they’re afterthoughts rather than vital steps in their routine. The fact is, though, that flossing and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can help to remove debris and buildup that your toothbrush simply can’t reach.
  • Stay hydrated. A dry mouth is an unhappy environment for the bacteria that reside there. When you drink plenty of fluids, the pH balance within your oral cavity stays sufficiently balanced, resulting in naturally fresher breath.

Of course, the best thing that you can do for your mouth and your breath is to visit Dr. Sasson for regular general dentistry checkups at least twice per year. This ensures that your teeth and gums are both clean and healthy, the two primary components of fresh-smelling breath. Contact our office in Brookline, MA today to schedule your appointment! We also warmly welcome families from throughout the surrounding areas, including Chelsea, Somerville, Boston, Newton, Cambridge, and beyond.

Periodontal Disease and Your Health: What You May Not Know About the Link

February 26, 2014

Shutterstock Health Body PerioWhen most of us think about periodontal disease, we imagine things like redness, swelling, bleeding after brushing and even tooth loss, but that’s usually where it stops. Unfortunately, gum disease has been linked with a variety of other, potentially more serious health problems that many people don’t associate with oral health at all. At Boston Smile Center in Brookline, MA, Dr. Alan Sasson treats gum disease with Laser Periodontal Therapy to keep his patients healthy and feeling great, for both now and the future.

Hidden Dangers of Gum Disease

When periodontal disease is left untreated for an extended period of time, the bacteria that causes the infection itself can spread from the mouth to the bloodstream. It travels throughout the body, adversely affecting a number of other tissues and organs. Some of the health complications linked to poor oral health include the following:

  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Stomach ulcers and other gastrointestinal problems
  • Low birth weight and preterm birth in infants of mothers with periodontal disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in the lungs)
  • Increased risk of diabetes complications
  • Coronary artery disease
  • Higher risk of heart attack and stroke

Fortunately for individuals suffering from gum disease, the Laser Periodontal Therapy™ procedure performed at Boston Smile Center effectively treats gum infection and can thereby help lower your risk of developing these conditions.

If you or someone in your family has experienced any of the common symptoms of gum disease – including redness along the gum line, bleeding, gum recession or sensitivity – now is the time to take control of your health and contact Dr. Sasson for help. At our office in Brookline, MA, Dr. Sasson happily welcomes patients from Cambridge, Boston, Newton, Chelsea, Somerville and beyond.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Sasson’s General Dentistry: Putting Your Family’s Oral Health First

January 22, 2014

Shutterstock Child at DentistGreat oral health and beautiful, white teeth begin with a foundation of consistent general dentistry, making those biannual visits to Dr. Sasson’s office one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your family. At Boston Smile Center in Brookline, MA, we emphasize the importance of regular exams and cleanings to ensure a solid basis for future oral health.

We Welcome You to Our Dental Family

At routine checkup appointments, Dr. Sasson and his caring, compassionate staff will begin by making you feel secure and comfortable in the welcoming atmosphere of our Brookline, MA office. Your teeth, gums and all other parts of your mouth will be carefully assessed for any signs of decay and periodontal disease, as well as any other problems that may require treatment.

Following a routine examination, your teeth and gums will receive a thorough cleaning to ensure optimal health and to protect against future problems. This process has been described as relaxing and rejuvenating, giving you that wonderfully clean feeling you can only achieve at the dentist’s office.

If you’re having your children seen in Dr. Sasson’s office, don’t worry – our experience spans the entire spectrum of family dental care and we’re always prepared to treat our patients in the gentlest way possible, no matter their age. In some cases, we may suggest the use of safe, proven sedation techniques to relieve anxiety for a more effective and pleasant experience.

General Dentistry Care You Can Trust

At Boston Smile Center, we treat all of our patients like family, ensuring your comfort and satisfaction from the very start. From our office in Brookline, MA, Dr. Sasson proudly serves patients from Cambridge, Boston, Newton, Chelsea, Somerville and beyond. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and find out how our family and general dentistry services can benefit you!

Pregnancy and Your Oral Health – Part 3

March 25, 2013

Filed under: Dentist — Tags: , , , , — Dr. Alan Sasson @ 3:48 pm

What You Need to Know – Dental X-rays and Food Choices

Dental X-rays

Current American Dental Association guidelines say it is more risky for a pregnant woman to postpone dental treatment than to have treatment.  This is because dental disease that goes untreated during pregnancy can lead to greater problems later on.  It may also lead to the transfer of bacteria that cause oral diseases to your child.  In order to ensure your best dental care, at Boston Smile Center, we will take only the X-rays that are absolutely necessary to make a clinical diagnosis.  At Boston Smile Center, we are equipped with the latest digital X-ray system, ensuring that the radiation exposure is the absolute minimum.  We also use lead aprons with thyroid collar to help protect your and your fetus.

Food Choices shutterstock_9493105

It is important to a eat nutritious, well-balanced diet.  When you need a snack, choose foods that are nutritious for you and your unborn baby.  What you eat during your pregnancy affects the growth of the fetus, including the their teeth.  The baby’s teeth begin to develop between the third and sixth months of your pregnancy.  For teeth to develop well, they need enough vitamins, minerals and other nutrients – especially vitamins A, C, and D, protein, calcium and phosphorous.  Your OB-GYN may recommend calcium supplements or other prenatal vitamins to you.

To Ensure a Healthy Mouth

  • Brush and floss well and frequently after every meal or snack.
  • Eat a balanced diet.  If you snack, choose healthy foods low in sugar.
  • Visit our dental hygienist at Boston Smile Center regularly for a professional cleaning and dental examination.
  • Let Dr. Sasson know:
    • if you have a high-risk pregnancy
    • the month of pregnancy you are in
    • if you are taking any medications
    • any changes in your oral health such as swelling, redness, bleeding, sores, or inflammation in your mouth
    • if you notice any loose teeth

We can work together to make sure you maintain optimal oral health before, during, and after your pregnancy.

Dr. Sasson’s goal at Boston Smile Center is for you to maintain a radiant and healthy smile for a lifetime!

Pregnancy and Your Oral Health – Part 2

March 11, 2013

Filed under: Dentist — Tags: , , , , — Dr. Alan Sasson @ 3:48 pm

What You Need to Know – Tooth Decay

Of course anyone can get tooth decay, but pregnant women who snack a lot may have a higher risk.  That’s because bacteria normally found in everyone’s mouth feed on the sugars found in all foods and drinks.  These bacteria produce dental plaque and release acids.  It is the acids that attack and eat away at teeth.

When you have sugary foods or drinks many times a day, or sip on sugar filled drinks like soda or fruit juices all day long, the acid from the bacteria attacks and eats away at your teeth again and again causing cavities.  Cavities left untreated for a long time can become complicated and expensive to treat.  The best time for dental treatment, other than routine dental hygiene visits, is in the middle trimester.  Of course, at Boston Smile Center, we always seek input and approval from your OB-GYN.

As you know, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.  To help prevent tooth decay and gum disease, brush your teeth after every meal, even after snacks or sugar-containing drinks.  A mechanical toothbrush, of any kind, is clearly more effective over a standard toothbrush.   Flossing as well is also necessary to prevent cavities from developing between your teeth.   If you already have a lot of dentistry or suffer from morning sickness, a prescription strength fluoridated toothpaste or tooth remineralizing mouth rinse may also be beneficial. At Boston Smile Center, we will tailor a regimen to meet your particular needs.

How Pregnancy May Affect Your Gumsshutterstock_11694115

Many women are prone to gingivitis (gin-ja-vie-tis) during pregnancy.  The plaque on your teeth can make your gums red, tender, inflamed, swollen, and likely to bleed easily when you brush your teeth.  This condition if left untreated can lead to more serious disease affecting the gums and the jawbone that hold your teeth in place.

During pregnancy, your body’s hormone levels rise greatly.  These hormones can make your gums more sensitive to dental plaque.  That is why gingivitis is more common during pregnancy and why more frequent dental cleanings will be beneficial.  Your home care is especially important in keeping this condition in check.  Again, Dr. Alan Sasson will tailor a regimen to meet your particular needs.

Together we can work together to make sure you maintain optimal oral health before, during, and after your pregnancy.

Dr. Sasson’s goal at Boston Smile Center is for you to maintain a radiant and healthy smile for a lifetime!

In an upcoming blog, I will discuss pregnancy as it relates to dental X-rays, food choices and looking ahead.

Pregnancy and Your Oral Health – Part 1

February 25, 2013

Filed under: Dentist — Tags: , , , , — Dr. Alan Sasson @ 3:46 pm

What You Need to Know – Dental Visits

Take Time to Take Care of Yourself

If you are pregnant or planning to become so, now is the time to pay close attention to your teeth and gums as an important part of your overall health.  It’s important for both you and your baby.  Pregnancy and the changing hormone levels that occur with it can make some dental problems worse.  Taking good care of your mouth benefits your overall health.  And, clearly if you are healthy, it is more likely your baby will be healthy, too.shutterstock_7618078

Dental Visits

If you are planning to get pregnant, schedule a dental checkup with us so that we can assess the current health of your teeth and gums and address any needs or concerns in advance.  We can also schedule you for an extra dental hygiene visit to keep your oral health at an optimal level during this important time in your life.

Inform us if there is any change in your general health, and change in the medications you may be taking, or any special advice your physician has provided to you.  This information will help us plan your treatment.  We would also be happy to speak directly with your OG-GYN doctor to coordinate any needed treatment.

It is important that you continue with regular dental visits during your pregnancy.  Having a dental cleaning every three months during your pregnancy can be very helpful to control gingivitis that frequently occurs because of normal hormonal changes.  Preventing periodontal gum disease is very important to you and your baby.

During the last months of pregnancy, it may be uncomfortable lying in the dental chair during your visit so let us know.  We have many options available in the office such as lumbar pillows, head, neck and back chair supports that adjust to many positions in order make you as comfortable as possible.

Together we can work together to make sure you maintain optimal oral health before, during, and after your pregnancy.

Dr. Sasson’s goal at Boston Smile Center is for you to maintain a radiant and healthy smile for a lifetime!

In an upcoming blog, I will discuss pregnancy as it relates to tooth decay and gingivitis.

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