Six Month Braces Case

Here is a case that was just completed. This gentleman was unhappy with the appearance and position of his upper teeth. We proposed three phases of treatment: tooth realignment with 6 Month Braces, whitening with Deep Bleaching procedure, and replacing the discolored and leaking bonding in his front tooth. The benefits of this approach were a cost savings compared to conventional veneer treatments, as well as avoiding the irreversible cutting or veneering of teeth in order to straighten, whiten, and keep the smile balanced.

Before treatment began.

Results after just 4 months of braces, Deep Bleaching and replacement of the failing filling on the upper left front tooth.

Spring is Coming!

Cascadia Dentistry's blossoms are arriving. Always a great reminder to check up on your hygiene visit schedule for springtime. Give us a call or book online!

Dr. Rafoth and his dad, Dr. Rafoth

My dad, Richard Rafoth, MD, is a gasteroenterologist at the Everett Clinic in Everett, Washington. He has published 2 editions of a book. It's focused on nutrition and cycling. He has also created a blog and website devoted to cycling performance, called Cycling Performance Tips. He is the absolute best long-distance rider I know, has tons of street cred in the nutrition department, and has inspired me to ride for the rest of my life.

I thought I would share an older post from his website. I contributed an article about the research and management of tooth decay when you are a high-performance cyclist.

Happy riding!

"I don't need toothpaste to get clean?"

Toothpaste is not the most important part of cleaning your teeth--it's time.

Researchers are unified in the fact that excellent plaque removal is based on the length of time you brush. In fact, a dry brush is more effective, say some researchers, because patients can actually feel when the plaque is being removed. Toothpaste masks the truly clean feel your tongue can detect.

So brushing for 2-3 minutes is the most ideal time it takes to remove the most plaque and bacteria.

Don't ignore the power of today's toothpaste products, though. The best toothpastes contain ingredients that remineralize and protect the enamel surfaces, as well as desensitize your teeth. The notion that toothpaste is needed as an abrasive is outdated. The older toothpastes on the market may contain pumice, silica, and other abrasives that can speed up tooth erosion or abrasion. Contact us today for the best recommendations on the right toothpaste for you.

Cascadia's Weekly Prescription

Root surface cavities happen at the gumline of teeth. Older patients typically get these cavities because of their tendency to have gum recession and exposed roots. But another population of patients is on the rise: those who routinely drink soda, energy drinks, or sport drinks. The acid from the drinks corrode tooth enamel, and the cavity pattern is similar to root cavities in older patients.

These root surface cavities are hard to restore, because they are at or below the gumline. Conventionally, dentists removed the cavity and restored it with a filling. But this can create unhealthy gum tissue at the restoration in many cases.

Today, the best first line of treatment is to remineralize teeth and stop the cavity process. Numerous studies are revealing that professional-strength topical fluoride arrests root surface decay. When combined with excellent home care and professional dental visits, routine use of topical fluorides can prevent unneccessary restorations and reduce your costs. For complete information about the disease of tooth decay, visit our website.

Stabilizing Loose Teeth

Teeth can become loose for several reasons: Traumatic injuries, severe periodontal disease, or tooth grinding. In many cases, those problems become terminal, and the loose teeth have to be removed.

We can stabilize teeth and increase their lifespan. If we can anchor loose teeth successfully, and treat the source of the loose teeth, those questionable teeth can survive longer.

One method is splinting. We can unite or bond several teeth together. We can use metal wires or non-metallic fibers to unite the teeth with adhesive dentistry.




We also make clear acrylic splints called biteguards so you can reduce the traumatic forces of grinding.



Combining splinting with treatments for bite problems or treating periodontal disease can prevent premature tooth loss.