When used appropriately, a manual toothbrush is as effective as a powered toothbrush. The key is to brush for the recommended two to three minutes, using short strokes at a 45-degree angle to the gums, and covering the entire tooth surface – inner, outer, and chewing.
The enamel on our teeth is hard, but as we all know, it can be chipped and cracked. In addition to following the instructions of your hygienist, here are some other ways you can protect your teeth:
Tea and coffee are safe to drink in moderation. However, over time, large amounts can cause staining and damage. In addition to caffeine, tea and coffee contain chromogens, deeply pigmented molecules that adhere to dental enamel, and tannins, which boost a chromogen molecule’s ability to attach to dental enamel. Black tea is worse than black coffee, because coffee is lower in tannins.
Yes. New digital X-ray machines limit the low-dose radiation to a beam that targets only the areas needed to be filmed, faster film speeds allow for shorter exposure times, and the use of film holders prevents slipping, reducing the need for repeated exposure due to retakes. Stray radiation is almost non-existent with the use of modern dental X-ray machines, but the use of lead-lined, full-body aprons protect against even that possibility. Every two years, federal law requires X-ray machines to be checked for safety and accuracy, and some states have even more stringent regulations.
Congratulations! Yes, you should continue to see your dentist, as pregnancy can increase certain dental issues. Be sure to inform your dentist that you are pregnant and if you’re experiencing any changes in your oral health.
The tissues and bones of your mouth may shrink (atrophy) with the passage of time or with the gain or loss of body weight, causing a change in the fit of your dentures. A simple realign may help them fit snugly again. However, if you’ve worn your dentures for a number of years, or the bases are too far out of shape, it may be time for replacements. It is counterproductive to use more denture adhesive to try to make them hold better, because this may lead to faster bone loss and additional problems with the fit of your dentures.
Dental amalgam (silver) fillings comprise silver, tin, copper, and liquid mercury, which are combined to form an inert (non-active) alloy. According to the FDA, CDC, the American Dental Association (ADA), and a number of other public health agencies, there is no link between this type of filling and any known health issue. Because of speculation and controversy, amalgam is the most researched and tested dental filling material on the market.
Here’s what our happy patients say about us.
Honolulu Smile Design is awesome! Dr. Ha and his team are professional, friendly and so organized. I’ve been to a handful of dentists (inHin and California) and Honolulu Smile Design has made me feel the most comfortable (and who can say that about a dentist?!). The scheduling process is very easy – communication is clear, easy and fast. I especially appreciate seeing one hygienist each time (Jessica!) who is very knowledgeable. Dr. Ha is very thorough, explains everything clearly and doesn’t push or sell procedures (which I’ve experienced at other dentists). And best of all everyone is so kind, nice and make the experience of going to the dentist painless.
Honolulu Smile Design is awesome! Dr. Ha and his team are professional, friendly and so organized. I’ve been to a handful of dentists (inHin and California) and Honolulu Smile Design has made me feel the most comfortable (and who can say that about a dentist?!). The scheduling process is very easy – communication is clear, easy and fast. I especially appreciate seeing one hygienist each time (Jessica!) who is very knowledgeable. Dr. Ha is very thorough, explains everything clearly and doesn’t push or sell procedures (which I’ve experienced at other dentists). And best of all everyone is so kind, nice and make the experience of going to the dentist painless.
Honolulu Smile Design is awesome! Dr. Ha and his team are professional, friendly and so organized. I’ve been to a handful of dentists (inHin and California) and Honolulu Smile Design has made me feel the most comfortable (and who can say that about a dentist?!). The scheduling process is very easy – communication is clear, easy and fast. I especially appreciate seeing one hygienist each time (Jessica!) who is very knowledgeable. Dr. Ha is very thorough, explains everything clearly and doesn’t push or sell procedures (which I’ve experienced at other dentists). And best of all everyone is so kind, nice and make the experience of going to the dentist painless.
Honolulu Smile Design is awesome! Dr. Ha and his team are professional, friendly and so organized. I’ve been to a handful of dentists (inHin and California) and Honolulu Smile Design has made me feel the most comfortable (and who can say that about a dentist?!). The scheduling process is very easy – communication is clear, easy and fast. I especially appreciate seeing one hygienist each time (Jessica!) who is very knowledgeable. Dr. Ha is very thorough, explains everything clearly and doesn’t push or sell procedures (which I’ve experienced at other dentists). And best of all everyone is so kind, nice and make the experience of going to the dentist painless.
Honolulu Smile Design is awesome! Dr. Ha and his team are professional, friendly and so organized. I’ve been to a handful of dentists (inHin and California) and Honolulu Smile Design has made me feel the most comfortable (and who can say that about a dentist?!). The scheduling process is very easy – communication is clear, easy and fast. I especially appreciate seeing one hygienist each time (Jessica!) who is very knowledgeable. Dr. Ha is very thorough, explains everything clearly and doesn’t push or sell procedures (which I’ve experienced at other dentists). And best of all everyone is so kind, nice and make the experience of going to the dentist painless.
Honolulu Smile Design is awesome! Dr. Ha and his team are professional, friendly and so organized. I’ve been to a handful of dentists (inHin and California) and Honolulu Smile Design has made me feel the most comfortable (and who can say that about a dentist?!). The scheduling process is very easy – communication is clear, easy and fast. I especially appreciate seeing one hygienist each time (Jessica!) who is very knowledgeable. Dr. Ha is very thorough, explains everything clearly and doesn’t push or sell procedures (which I’ve experienced at other dentists). And best of all everyone is so kind, nice and make the experience of going to the dentist painless.
Dentist,Dr. John Ha DDS and the team at Honolulu Smile Design are pleased to provide professional and caring dental services to their patients in Honolulu HI and the surrounding communities. Our dental services include: cosmetic, family, general, implant, laser, preventive and restorative dentistry. Our dental treatments include: routine oral hygiene care, teeth cleaning, dental exams, dental x-rays, dental bonding, porcelain dental crowns, teeth whitening, white dental fillings, Invisalign clear dental aligners, clear dental braces, dental implants, dental laser treatment, gum disease treatment, youth dental care, dental root canal treatment, senior dental care and same-day emergency dental care.
