The gift of being a dentist has enriched my life in many ways. I am particularly thankful for how it has helped me become more understanding of others. Because of the necessities of the profession it has taught me much in the way of empathy, and in turn it has made my own life that much more fulfilled.

I earned my Doctor of Dental Surgery from University of California San Francisco, graduating from the class of 1998. After graduating, I have been involved in extensive continuing education in the following subjects: Dental Implants, Sleep Apnea and Snoring Treatment, Cosmetic Dentistry, Reconstructive Dentistry, and TMJ. I have also achieved the status of Fellow in the International Congress of Oral Implantologists- one of the leading dental implant organizations in the world.

Dentistry is an extremely fulfilling profession. The ability to change peoples lives is a true blessing when given the chance. To be able to work in a profession where I get to interact with so many amazing people and get to know them over the course of many years is very gratifying.

My team appreciates our patients and also each other. We keep an upbeat vibe in the office and show up happy to be here! Most of my team has been here even longer than I have. Several have been with us over 15 years! They are some of the sweetest ladies I have had the pleasure of knowing, and they always make our patients feel special and appreciated.

I am originally from Houston, Texas, and have lived in San Francisco for the past 20 years. In my spare time, I love going to concerts, snowboarding, or traveling all over the world with my wife. I am also passionate about helping our community, and I support the American Red Cross and the San Francisco Food Bank.

Dentistry is the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions, disorders, and diseases of the tooth, gums, mouth, and jaw. Often considered necessary for complete oral health, dentistry can have an impact on the health of your entire body.

A dentist is a specialist who works to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health problems. Your dentist has completed at least eight years of schooling, and received either a DDS (doctor of dental surgery) degree, or a DMD (doctor of dental medicine) degree. If your doctor is a pediatric dentist, this means that they specialize in caring for children from infancy through their teen years. Your dentist has received the proper education and training needed to work with young kids. Other specializations include:

Your teeth may feel fine, but its still important to see the dentist regularly because problems can exist without you knowing. Your smiles appearance is important, and your dentist can help keep your smile healthy and looking beautiful. With so many advances in dentistry, you no longer have to settle for stained, chipped, missing, or misshapen teeth. Todays dentists offer many treatment choices that can help you smile with confidence, including:

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children first see a dentist as early as six-months-old and no later than one-year-old. During this time, your childs baby teeth will be coming in and your dentist can examine the health of your childs first few teeth. After the first visit, be sure and schedule regular checkups every six months.

Children, teens, and adults should all see the dentist for a regular checkup at least once every six months. Patients who are at a greater risk for oral cancer or gum disease may be required to see the dentist more than just twice a year. You doctor will help determine how often you should visit the dentist for regular checkups.

A cavity is a small hole that forms inside the tooth and is caused by tooth decay. Cavities are formed when plaque build-up on the outside of the tooth combines with sugars and starches in the food you eat. This can produce an acid that can eat away the enamel on your tooth. If a cavity is left untreated, it can lead to more serious oral health problems. Cavities can be prevented by remembering to brush your teeth at least three times a day and floss in between teeth at least once.

A filling is a synthetic material that your dentist uses to fill a cavity after all of the tooth decay has been removed. Fillings do not generally hurt because your dentist will numb your mouth with an anesthetic. Fillings are made from a variety of different materials, including composites, gold, or ceramic. If you need a filling, be sure and talk to your doctor about what type is best for you and your teeth.

According to your dentist and the American Dental Association, you should be brushing your teeth at least two times a day. Brushing keeps your teeth, gums, and mouth clean and healthy by removing bacteria causing plaque. It is also recommended that when you brush your teeth, you use a soft bristle toothbrush and toothpaste that contains fluoride. You should spend at least a minute on the top teeth and a minute on the bottom teeth, and remember to brush your tongue; it will help keep your breath smelling fresh!

Your toothbrush will eventually wear out, especially if you are brushing your teeth twice times a day for 2-3 minutes each time. Your dentist recommends that adults and children should change their toothbrush every three months. If you are using an electric toothbrush, be sure to read the directions as you may not need to change toothbrush heads as frequently. Patients with gum disease are encouraged to change their toothbrush every four to six weeks in order to keep any bacteria from spreading. After brushing, rinse your toothbrush with hot water to kill germs and keep the bristles clean. If youve been sick, be sure to change your toothbrush as soon as possible.

Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is mostly caused by plaque and bacteria buildup that is not treated in its early stage. Other causes of periodontal disease include tobacco use, teeth grinding, some medications, and genetics. Gingivitis is the beginning stage of gum disease, and, if detected, is treatable. Gingivitis left untreated may turn into gum disease. Advanced gum disease will lead to tooth and bone loss, and is a permanent condition. Brushing your teeth regularly, and visiting the dentist every six months will help prevent gingivitis and more severe cases of periodontal disease. Common signs of gum disease:

Yes! In fact, its even more important that patients receiving orthodontic treatment visit their dentist regularly. With braces, food may be caught in places that your toothbrush cant reach. This causes bacteria to build up and can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist will work closely with your orthodontist to make sure that your teeth stay clean and healthy while wearing braces.

Simply call our practice! Our front desk staff will be happy to help schedule your next dental checkup at your convenience. If you are a new patient, please let us know, and we will provide you with all the information you need for your first dental visit.