America's Dental Health Crisis

Today, I came across this news article from CNN.com that restated something most dentists are already aware of. Most American's do not have easy access to dental care either through geography or financially.

Opinion: The Real Crisis in America's ER's by Dr. Charles H. Norman

Dr. Charles Norman authored this in depth and well written article about the epidemic of dental emergencies that are adding unnecesary work loads to our already over-worked ERs. With our governments concerns about the cost and access of medical care to our citizens, the role of dental health has been overlooked by our representatives. Dr. Norman makes a very important point that unlike medicine, dental health problems are easily preventable with easy access to preventative care and instructions. My team here at Avalon Dental in Sugar Land, TX, take great pride in emphasizing the importance of prevention through in depth oral hygiene instruction and careful regular screenings.

Your Team at Avalon

Since it's been awhile, I'd like to introduce your team at Avalon Dental in Sugar land. My office manager Leslie and I made sure to put together a caring and top notched team that understands our Guiding Principles and puts them into practice for every patient every day.

Dr. Mason and I, Dr. Yu, strive to provide all our patients with comprehensive, aesthetic, and compassionate care. We both dedicate many hours a month to improve our knowledge of the ever improving world of dentistry through study clubs and continuing education. Our personal and professional ethics are the backbone to our treatment philosphy and quality of care.

Our Guiding Principles are personified through the care and dedication of every member of your Avalon Team. Your cleanings and gum health are the responsibilities of our two gentle, caring and qualified Registered Dental Hygienists, Jenine and Rebecca. They bring years of experience and warm welcoming personalities to every one of your check ups. As your Patient Care Coordinator, Chea uses her many years of experience in the dental field to help coordinate your visit to make sure your dental care is provided and completed compassionately and efficiently. Our Insurance Coordinator Perla, makes every effort to help you maximize your dental insurance benefits. Our Registered Dental Assistant Jhoanna, brings her extensive training and experience to every patient visit to ensure you have a comfortable and safe visit. Of course our Office Manager Leslie is always supervising that our office and your team is working in concert to make your visit with us as comfortable and as perfect as possible. If you're a new patient, I welcome you to come experience Avalon Dental. We are working tirelessly to make sure your visit is a perfect one. If you're already in our patient family, thank you for your partnership with us and we look forward to seeing you soon at your next check-up! Sincerely, Dannie S. Yu, M.S., D.D.S.

How to choose the right toothbrush and toothpaste

A trip to the dental aisle at your local grocery store or pharmacy can be a bit dizzying because of the variety of products offered nowadays.
The best rule of thumb for toothpastes is to select any toothpaste that has the ADA seal of Approval on the back of the box. Keep in mind that most major brand toothpastes are acceptable (Crest and Colgate), and sometimes they may lack the ADA seal of approval because the newer formulations have yet to pass their approval process. For example, their “whitening” version may still be under study by the ADA to verify that it meets their claims on the box. But aside from the “extra” benefits these major brands may be marketing on the box, it is assumed that the toothpaste performs all the claims promoted by their basic formulation that already has the ADA seal.



For toothbrushes, it is important to find a head size that fits your mouth and always select the “soft” or “extra soft” bristles. For most adults a size 35 is sufficient. Remember it’s better to get a brush that’s a little bit smaller rather than one that is a bit larger so you can reach the back teeth comfortably. The “soft” bristles will prevent unnecessary erosion of your enamel from brushing. Remember, brushing longer is always better than brushing harder.

For help selecting between the different brands with the ADA stamp feel free to contact us via live chat on our website at http://www.thesugarlanddentist.com/
or feel to call us at 281-240-5559.