Soft Tissue Grafting

After gum disease, your gums can be left with recession, which unfortunately causes further complications. In order to fix recessed gums, Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS of Fullerton, CA can perform a soft tissue graft.

When gum disease advances, it can cause the gum to recede, which means they pull back from the teeth. This elongates visible tooth material, causing exposure of the tooth roots. This can cause sensitivity, pain, and it can even cause a resurgence of gum disease. In order to prevent these problems, Dr. Meyer performs a soft tissue graft.

Soft tissue grafting takes tissue from the roof of the mouth or palate and stitches it down to the gums to cover the exposed area. In cases where there is a lot of gum tissue near the tooth, the gums may be cut and stretched over the exposed root, instead of taking tissue from the roof or palate of the mouth. The graft promotes even more gum growth and when the healing is complete, the patient will have a healthy gum line that holds teeth snuggly.  

Gum disease can become a vicious cycle it if is allowed. To inquire about soft tissue grafting, give our Fullerton, CA office a call at (714) 879-7943 or visit Dr. Eric M Meyer’s website, www.fullertondental.com. 

Sinus Lift

Bone grafting can be necessary when a patient does not have enough bone material in their jawline to hold a dental implant. Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS offers sinus lifts here in our Fullerton, CA office. This is a procedure that adds bone to the space between the upper molars and the sinus cavity.

Sometimes the jawbone right below the sinus cavity is too small to allow a dental implant to be successfully placed. When a tooth is missing for a while, the bone in the area where the tooth used to be can begin to deteriorate. In other cases, a patient may just be born with a smaller jawbone. Also, sometimes the sinuses on either side of the nose are just too low for placing an implant. A sinus lift adds bone to the area between the upper jaw and the sinuses.

The bone for the graft is usually taken from another area in the jaw or from a place like the hip bone or shin bone. Sometimes it is from a bone bank. The grafting process begins with cutting the tissue where the implant will be. The bone is exposed and a small opening is created. The membrane separating the sinus cavity from the jaw is pushed up and away. The bone graft material is then packed into the space. Afterward, the area is stitched closed. The area will need several months to heal and during this time, the new bone material will promote even more new bone growth. The end result is a large and strong jawbone that can hold a dental implant for life.

If you are interested in a dental implant or the process of bone grafting, be sure to visit our website or give us a call. To set up an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, call our Fullerton, CA office at (714) 879-7943. Appointments may also be requested through our website, www.fullertondental.com. 

Do Wisdom Teeth Have a Purpose?

Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that most people get in their late teens or early twenties. During this “age of wisdom” phase, sometimes teeth can be a valuable asset to the mouth when healthy and properly aligned, but more often they are misaligned and require removal. Some might think of wisdom teeth as spare tires, because if you lost your teeth, the wisdom teeth would be extra teeth that come in and function like normal teeth. At the dental practice of Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, we may recommend extraction depending on their position and stage of development.

So why do we have them? Anthropologists believe wisdom teeth or the third set of molars, were the evolutionary answer to our ancestor’s early diet of coarse, rough food – like leaves, roots, nuts, and meats – which required more chewing power and resulted in excessive wear of the teeth. The modern diet with its softer foods, along with marvels of modern technologies such as forks, spoons, and knives, has made the need for wisdom teeth nonexistent; however, they don’t always need to be removed.

If your wisdom teeth are still present and they are beginning to bother you, give us a call to discuss your options. To learn more about the services provided at the practice, visit www.fullertondental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, in Fullerton CA, call 714-879-7943.

Post-Op Tooth Extraction Care

There are many reasons why a tooth may need to be extracted. Tooth decay, gum disease, or even for orthodontic purposes name a few. After the tooth is removed, you may need stitches and you will need to follow strict instructions that Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS will give you. After the surgery, you will need to rest and you should expect the extraction site to bleed a little following extraction. In addition, here are a few things to remember during post-op care.

If bleeding continues for longer than 24 hours you should call our office immediately. Once you return home after the surgery you should rest, but do not lie flat. This could prolong the bleeding. One of our doctors will prescribe you pain medication, as well as cleaning solution for the extraction site, so if you become sore take as directed. It’s important to limit yourself to soft foods such as gelatin, pudding, yogurt, mashed potatoes, etc. so that the stitches are not punctured. When drinking, make sure you do not use a straw, because the sucking motion can loosen your sutures and slow the clotting process.

If you are experiencing tooth discomfort or have questions about post-op aftercare, please give us a call. To learn more about the services provided at the practice, visit www.fullertondental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, in Fullerton CA, call 714-879-7943.

What is a Tooth-Colored Filling?

To treat a cavity your dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and then “fill” the area on the tooth where the decayed material once lived. At the dental practice of Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, we utilize white (tooth-colored) fillings. Composite resins or tooth-colored fillings provide good durability and resistance to fracture in small to mid-size fillings that need to withstand moderate pressure from the constant stress of chewing.

Fillings help restore teeth damaged by decay back to their normal function and can prevent further decay. When a dentist gives you a filling, they first remove the decayed tooth material, clean the affected area, and then fill the cleaned out cavity with a filling material. Composites are also used for cosmetic improvements of the smile by changing the color of the teeth or reshaping disfigured teeth. Aesthetics are the main advantage of composites since dentists can blend shades to create a color nearly identical to that of the actual tooth.

If you have questions about dental bonding or white fillings, please give us a call. To learn more about the services provided at the practice, visit www.fullertondental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, in Fullerton CA, call 714-879-7943.

ARESTIN for Gum Disease

Gum disease is the #1 cause of adult tooth loss in the United States. If you don’t practice proper oral hygiene on a daily basis, you can develop gingivitis (the earliest stage of gum disease), which if left untreated can lead to periodontitis (the final stage of gum disease). Gingivitis is reversible, however, periodontitis is not. If your gum disease moves past the stage of gingivitis, Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS may need to apply ARESTIN to the gums, an antibiotic that is used in adjunct to scaling and root planing. 

Scaling and root planing is an effective gum disease treatment. In this procedure, our doctors use tools to clean plaque and tartar from your teeth and roots below the gum line. During the procedure, our doctors utilize ARESTIN, an antibiotic containing microspheres that are smaller than grains of sand. ARESTIN is placed directly to your gums and has the power to kill bacteria so your gums can heal better than with scaling and root planing alone. In one single visit, our doctors can add ARESTIN to the pocket between your gum and tooth. It is a painless procedure, with effective results.

If you have questions about ARESTIN, please give us a call. To learn more about the services provided at the practice, visit www.fullertondental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, in Fullerton CA, call 714-879-7943.

How to Prevent Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is the destruction of your tooth enamel, the hard, outer layer of your teeth. Hundreds of different types of bacteria live on our teeth, gums, tongue and other crevices in the mouth. Some are helpful, but some can be harmful such as those that play a role in the tooth decay process. At the dental practice of Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, we want our patients to know that good oral and dental hygiene can help you avoid cavities and tooth decay.

When a tooth is exposed to acid frequently – for example, if you frequently eat foods or drinks containing sugar and starches – the repeated cycles of acid attacks cause the enamel to continue to lose minerals. This will cause a white spot to appear if the minerals have been lost. When this happens, this is a sign of early decay.

You can help prevent tooth decay by following these tips:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.


• Clean between your teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner.


• Eat nutritious and balanced meals and limit snacking.


• Visit Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS for professional cleanings and oral examination.

If you need assistance maintaining your oral hygiene routine, give us a call. To learn more about the services provided at the practice, visit www.fullertondental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, in Fullerton CA, call 714-879-7943.

Do Pacifiers Damage Baby Teeth?

It’s one of the hardest habits to break and can require a great deal of persuasion – parents often struggle with weaning their child off a pacifier. Yes, pacifiers provide a sense of security and a method of self-relaxation for infants, but the downside of pacifiers is the effect they can have on the growth and development of the teeth and mouth. At the dental practice of Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, we always welcome new patients, including pediatric patients who have yet to wean off of the pacifier.

Prolonged pacifier use can cause changes in the shape of the roof of the mouth, prevent proper growth of the mouth and create problems with tooth alignment. Long-term pacifier use can lead to a variety of complications including tilting in of the bottom teeth and slanting in of the top and front teeth. Narrowing of the roof of the mouth and misalignment of the jaws can also occur. The Academy of General Dentistry recommends that children stop using pacifiers by the age of two. Up until that age, any alignment problem with the teeth or developing bone is usually corrected within six months after pacifier use has stopped.

If you have questions about pacifiers and teeth development, give us a call. To learn more about the services provided at the practice, visit www.fullertondental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, in Fullerton CA, call 714-879-7943.

What is a Dental Bridge?

You have probably heard of a dental bridge before. They are a popular option for tooth replacement and something Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS offers here in our Fullerton, CA dental office. Read on to learn just what a bridge is and how it works.

When a tooth goes missing, there is a space in between teeth unless the tooth is located in the back of your mouth. A bridge uses the two teeth adjacent to the open space to attach a replacement tooth. In the case that the missing tooth is the last one in the back of your mouth, the bridge can work with just the one adjacent tooth. The bridge itself consists of two crowns with a “pontic”, the replacement tooth, in the middle. The crowns are placed on the adjacent teeth and the pontic is fit perfectly in the middle.

Bridges are strong and durable tooth replacement options. They are also usually the most affordable. Bridges are not only able to replace the tooth and restore chewing function; they are also able to look just like the rest of your teeth. This means your smile is also restored.

Missing teeth can cause shifting in your mouth, injury, and even deterioration of your jawline. To set up a bridge consultation with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS in our Fullerton, CA office, call us at (714) 879-7943 or visit our website, www.fullertondental.com. 

How is a Dental Crown Applied?

When a tooth is damaged or decayed, a dental crown makes restoration possible. Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS of Fullerton, CA uses crowns as an option to keep a patient’s natural tooth in place.

Dental crowns are like caps that go on your tooth. They can be created out of gold, porcelain fused to metal, or porcelain. They are completely customized to blend in with the rest of your natural teeth, so they are not only restoring your oral health but also improving the aesthetic look of your smile!

To begin the process of applying a dental crown, your tooth will be reshaped to fit the crown and then an impression will be taken of the tooth. A dental laboratory will use the impression to create a custom crown that will have the look and feel of one of your natural teeth. The laboratory process can take between two and three weeks, so your dentist will place a temporary crown so you can still use your tooth normally during that time. When the permanent crown is ready, it is cemented into place.

Dental crowns are perfect for when there is too much damage for a filling to hold. It is always ideal to keep your natural teeth, so the dental crown is there to strengthen and restore function of that tooth.

If you would like to learn more about dental crowns, visit our website or give us a call. Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS is located in Fullerton, CA. Our office can be reached at (714) 879-7943 and we can also be reached through our website, www.fullertondental.com. 

Don’t Suffer From Dental Anxiety

Some people don’t look forward to dental appointments any more than they look forward to paying bills. In fact, 20% of patients experience enough anxiety that they will only go to the dentist when absolutely necessary. Fortunately, Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS has a team of health-centered professionals that are dedicated to making you feel most comfortable in the dentist’s chair.

People develop dental anxieties for many different reasons. Pain, feelings of helplessness and loss of control, embarrassment, and negative past experiences only name a few. Everyone has fears and concerns and copes with them in different ways. However, the prospect of dental work doesn’t need to fill you with fright. At the dental practice of Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS we want to help you greatly reduce your anxiety and provide you with dental treatment in a way that feels calm and safe. After all, in order to counteract past bad experiences, you need to have new positive experiences which lead to the development of improved feelings and attitudes.

If you have a case of dental anxiety, please inform us when scheduling your appointment. To learn more about the services provided at the practice, visit www.fullertondental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, in Fullerton CA, call 714-879-7943.

Reasons Adults May Desire Braces

Let’s just say that you had braces as a kid and you may not have followed the proper aftercare, such as wearing a retainer. This has likely caused your teeth to shift and now as an adult you are regretting your lack of commitment. Fortunately, at the dental practice of Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, we offer orthodontic options for adults such as Invisalign.

It’s never too late to get an education and it’s never too late to straighten your smile. Teeth shift as you get older and some people’s teeth shift more than others. If you’ve received orthodontic treatment in the past and didn’t wear your retainer for the recommended amount of time, your teeth will shift and return to their natural position. Other adults get braces because they’ve always had crooked or crowded teeth, overbites, and underbites or incorrect jaw position.

If you desire a straighter smile and would like to discuss your orthodontic options, give us a call. To learn more about the services provided at the practice, visit www.fullertondental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, in Fullerton CA, call 714-879-7943.

Braces Vs Invisalign

When it comes to orthodontic options, Invisalign is a favorite of many patients. Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS of Fullerton, CA offer Invisalign to his patients because of the convenience, the comfort, and the near invisibility.

The Invisalign trays are to be worn for twenty to twenty-two hours per day. You can take them out to eat, brush, and floss, unlike with braces. This means no need to buy special supplies like interdental cleaners and floss threaders. Also, no worrying about uneven stains that braces might leave.

You also take out Invisalign to eat. So this means that there are no restrictions on what you can eat with Invisalign, so you do not have to avoid crunchy, hard, sticky, or chewy foods. With braces, you need to be careful so you do not break brackets or wires.

The smooth plastic trays are also more comfortable than metal braces, so the calluses and irritated spots that braces cause are less likely. In addition, the trays are clear. This means you can straighten your teeth discreetly and will not have the metal look to your smile.  

If you are ready to use Invisalign to create your perfect smile, be sure to contact us! To set up an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS of Fullerton, CA, call us at (714) 879-7943 or visit our website, www.fullertondental.com. 

Electric Toothbrushes Vs Manual Toothbrushes

Electric toothbrushes and manual toothbrushes have gone head-to-head for a long time. No pun intended! Do you know the facts? Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS of Fullerton, CA wants to make sure his patients are taking the best care of their oral health no matter what they choose to use.

In recent studies, it has been shown that manual toothbrushes do just a good of a job brushing teeth as electric ones. Some sonic electric toothbrush users show less signs of gingivitis, however, this could be because those who spend more on dental care take more time brushing and flossing. While that is what studies show, this may change for those who have trouble using their hands like those with arthritis. Since an electric toothbrush does most of the work, it may make it easier for arthritic hands to brush, therefore letting them get a better brushing.

In addition to this news, electric toothbrushes with timers may help people brush for the correct amount of time and electric toothbrushes that play music may get kids more interested.

In the end, it really depends on how well you are brushing rather than the toothbrush used. To schedule a cleaning with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS in Fullerton, CA, call us at (714) 879-7943 or visit our website, www.fullertondental.com. 

Choosing the Right Mouthwash

Mouthwash or rinses are used for a variety of reasons: to freshen breath, to help prevent or control tooth decay, to reduce plaque, to prevent or reduce gingivitis, to reduce the speed that tartar forms on the teeth, or to produce a combination of these effects.  Mouthwash has a few beneficial properties and Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, would like to explain some of them.

• Antimicrobial agents act directly on oral bacteria to help reduce plaque, decrease the severity of gingivitis and control bad breath.


• Fluoride helps reduce tiny lesions (tooth decay) on tooth enamel and make teeth more resistant to decay.


• Astringent salts can serve as temporary deodorizers that mask bad breath.


• Odor neutralizers act by chemically inactivating odor causing compounds.

If you have questions about dental health or oral care, please give us a call. To learn more about the services provided at the practice, visit www.fullertondental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, in Fullerton CA, call 714-879-7943.

CareCredit Payment Plan

Here at the dental practice of Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, we are pleased to offer our patients CareCredit, America’s leader in patient payment plans. CareCredit covers a variety of treatment options and lets you begin treatment immediately – then pay for it over time with low monthly payments that fit easily into your monthly budget.

CareCredit is the credit card exclusively used for healthcare services. With no up-front costs and no pre-payment penalties, CareCredit lets you pay-over-time and frees up cash and credit cards for other things you want or need. CareCredit offers low monthly payment plans for healthcare procedures not commonly covered by insurance, including dental treatments. Plus, you can use your card again and again, to pay for additional treatment for yourself or family members in any CareCredit practice.

With the CareCredit healthcare credit card, you can benefit from preventive dentistry financing and procedures such as 6-month checkups, endodontics, periodontics, teeth cleaning, ceramic fillings, etc. as well as restorative and cosmetic dentistry financing procedures like lumineers, dental implants, tooth repair, dentures, and more.

To learn more about CareCredit give us a call, or visit www.fullertondental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, in Fullerton CA, call 714-879-7943.

How Smoking Affects Dental Implants

It isn’t news that smoking is bad for your health. However, did you know that smoking can also affect the success of a dental implant? Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS of Fullerton, CA wants to inform his patients of the effects smoking has on oral health and why it can mean trouble for implants.

Smoking physically changes the gum tissues in your mouth and the blood vessels surrounding them. The top layer of skin cells in the gums develops a condition called keratosis, which is the thickening of the tissues. The salivary glands within these tissues become blocked off and damaged, which creates dry mouth. The superficial blood vessels in the mouth begin to constrict, so they do not supply enough blood to the area. These effects create problems with healing, immune strength, and bacteria. When there is decreased blood flow, the area can take longer to heal after implant surgery. In addition, a dry mouth promotes gum disease. Over time, these issues will cause more bone loss in the jawbone around an implant, increasing the risk of the implant falling out.

It is never to wrong time to quit smoking or better yet, never start. To learn more about dental implants, contact our Fullerton, CA office or set up an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS by calling (714) 879-7943. Appointments may also be requested through our website, www.fullertondental.com. 

Bruxism Basics: Causes and Treatment

Do you ever wake up from a night’s sleep with sore teeth and jaws? You could be grinding your teeth. The medical term for occasional teeth grinding is called bruxism and although this condition does not usually cause harm, when teeth grinding occurs on a regular basis the teeth can be damaged and other oral health complications can arise. Some experts view bruxism as nothing more than a habit. It can also be a result of the body’s reaction when the teeth do not line up or come together properly (malocclusion). If you experience signs and symptoms of bruxism, Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS can develop an individualized treatment plan with you.

Stress, anxiety, smoking, heavy alcohol, caffeine, depression and sleep disorders are all possible causes of teeth grinding. Treatment for teeth grinding depends on the cause. In some cases, chronic teeth grinding can result in fracturing, loosening or loss of teeth. The purpose of a night guard is to protect your teeth and jaws. At the dental practice of Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, if you require a night guard we will custom make them just for you.

If you suspect that you are suffering from bruxism, give us a call. To learn more about the services provided at the practice, visit www.fullertondental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, in Fullerton CA, call 714-879-7943.

Dental Implant Failure

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. In fact, they are one of the most reliable long-term methods of tooth replacement. However, as with any other surgical procedure, there are a variety of internal and external factors that cause complications or even total failure of treatment. If this ever were to happen to you, Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS is here to assess the situation.

Osseointegration describes the formation of a direct functional and structural connection between a person’s bone and an artificial implant. There are two primary reasons for “later” implant failure after the osseointegration process has been successful. These include over-stressing implants with too much biting force or inflammatory disease of the gum tissues and/or bone around the implant. Prevention plays a tremendous role in avoiding implant failure. Once the implants are placed, it’s crucial to maintain a good oral hygiene routine. Make sure you schedule regular dental cleanings to help keep the tissues around your implants healthy.

If you have questions about dental implants, please give us a call. To learn more about the services provided at the practice, visit www.fullertondental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, in Fullerton CA, call 714-879-7943.

Bone Grafting for Dental Implants

When time has allowed jawbone to degenerate, it can become tough for a dental implant to be placed successfully. As we lose teeth, the jawbone will degenerate over time. Here in our Fullerton, CA dental office, Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS can perform bone grafting to restore that jawbone and allow a dental implant to be placed.

It is common to not have enough bone for an implant. Maybe you were born with a small ridge or maybe your bone has degenerated after the loss of a tooth. When the jawbone is too small, a dental implant often cannot be placed. Or, if it can be placed, it is not big enough to let the implant stay for very long. Dental implants are supposed to have the ability to stay in place for a lifetime, so bone grafting is a popular procedure to give back patients the ability to have dental implants.

A bone graft consists of taking bone from another area and moving it to the area it’s needed in. The bone usually comes from an area in the jaw or another part of the body like the shin and is packed into the space it is needed. Over several months, the grafted bone will also promote bone growth. The grafted bone and original bone will grow together and create enough jawbone to place dental implants.

Bone grafting makes dental implants possible for those who have too small of a jawbone. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, call our Fullerton, CA office at (714) 879-7943 or visit our website, www.fullertondental.com. 

Are Dental Implants Painful?

If you are receiving dental implants in the near future, Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS doesn’t want you to be frightened, he would rather you be informed on what to expect. Pain is a common concern among individuals who are considering dental implants and we want you to know that while some discomfort is expected, it shouldn’t be your primary concern.

As with any major dental procedure, or surgery in general, some discomfort is to be expected during the recovery process since it is a surgery that typically involves removing teeth, cutting gums, drilling into the jawbone and inserting a titanium post. The procedure itself is not painful since it is performed with either general or local anesthesia to completely numb your mouth. If you’re anxious about the discomfort during the procedure and being aware of drilling noises and forces being applied to your mouth, please ask us about our sedation options.

If you have missing teeth and would like to discuss your restorative options, please give us a call. To learn more about the services provided at the practice, visit www.fullertondental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, in Fullerton CA, call 714-879-7943.

General Dentistry Defined

General dentists are the primary dental care providers for patients of all ages. They can treat you and your entire family and care for your overall health. Dentistry is defined as the evaluation, diagnosis, prevention and/or treatment (nonsurgical or related procedures) of diseases, disorders and/or conditions of the oral cavity, maxillofacial area and/or the adjacent and associated structures and their impact on the human body. When looking for exceptional and quality general dentistry services, look no further than the practice of Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS.   

Instead of specializing in just one area of dentistry, general dentists, such as Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS provide plenty of different services for you and your family, such as: cosmetic procedures, crowns and bridges, dental implants, dentures, gum disease treatment, home care instruction, root canal therapy, teeth cleanings and many more.

If you are searching for a general dentist, please give us a call. To learn more about the services provided at the practice, visit www.fullertondental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, in Fullerton CA, call 714-879-7943.

Intraoral Camera- Advanced Dental Technology

New technology means more accuracy and efficiency. Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS uses advanced technology to provide the best care for patients. One piece of technology used here in our Fullerton, CA office is the intraoral camera.

The intraoral camera allows us to see parts of the mouth that have been difficult to see in the past. We can now access those hard-to-reach places by going inside the mouth. The camera is about the size of a pen and lets us look at any surface in the mouth more close-up with ease. We can also take pictures and videos that can be saved on a computer. The digital photos and video make future visits more efficient by allowing us to refer back to the past condition of the mouth. These photos can also be printed and taken home by the patient so they can keep a better eye out for any changes. It is also very easy to send pictures of a condition to another doctor or to an insurance company.

To learn more about the technology we use here in our Fullerton, CA office, visit our website, www.fullertondental.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, call us at (714) 879-7943 or visit our website.

Mini Dental Implants

When looking for a permanent tooth replacement, it is important to remember that not all mouths are the same. Some mouths have more room, some teeth are bigger, and patients have different types of needs. Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS provides patients with mini dental implants here in his Fullerton, CA office when a full-sized implant will not work.

Sometimes a full-sized dental implant is too big to fill the space that is open. Still desiring the best option for replacement, our patients need a smaller size. This is why we offer mini implants. They are about half the size of the full-sized implants. They are able to fit into smaller spaces and since they are smaller, they do not require surgery to be placed. This means a much quicker healing time, so permanent replacement crowns are often able to be placed the same day as the implant.

Mini implants are also great for creating a stable base for dentures. For this purpose, four to six mini implants are placed along the gum line, and the dentures are made to clip onto them. They stabilize the dentures so they fit great and do not move around. They also slow down the degeneration of the jawbone.

If you have been told a full-sized implant will not work for you or you are interested in implant-retained dentures, do not hesitate to contact us. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS in our Fullerton, CA office, call us at (714) 879-7943 or visit our website, www.fullertondental.com. 

Fluoride Treatment

Without practicing proper oral hygiene habits and scheduling regular dental visits, teeth become more vulnerable to cavities. Cavities are caused by acid-producing bacteria that collect around the teeth and gums or plaque, as we like to call it. Brushing twice a day and cleaning between teeth with floss helps remove this plaque. However, another key to excellent oral hygiene is fluoride, a mineral that helps prevent cavities and can repair teeth in the very early, microscopic stages of the disease. Here at the dental practice of Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, we can discuss professional fluoride treatments with you to see if you are a prime candidate.

Depending on your oral health status, fluoride treatments may be recommended every three, six, or twelve months. The fluoride preparation used in the dental office is a much stronger concentration than that in toothpaste or fluoride mouth rinses that you may find in the store. The fluoride may be in the form of a solution, gel, foam, or varnish and is typically applied with a cotton swab or a brush. It can also be used as a rinse or placed in a tray that is held in the mouth for several minutes. After the treatment, you may be asked not to rinse, eat, or drink for at least 30 minutes to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride to start the tooth repair process.

If you have further questions about fluoride treatments, please give us a call. To learn more about services we provide at our practice, visit www.fullertondental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, in Fullerton CA, call 714-879-7943.

Nitrous Oxide Sedation

Commonly called “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is a sedation technique that Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS utilizes to help our patients feel more relaxed in the dentist’s chair. Nitrous oxide is a safe and effective sedative agent that is mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a small mask that fits over your nose to help you feel calm during a dental procedure. If you suffer from dental anxiety, you as well may benefit from nitrous oxide. The next time you schedule a dental exam, ask Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS about whether nitrous oxide would be a good option for you.

Nitrous oxide is not intended to put you to sleep. After it’s administered, you will be able to hear and respond to any requests or directs that Dr. Meyer may have. He will ask you to breathe normally through your nose, and within a few short minutes, you should start to feel the effects. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off once the mask is removed, so you will be able to drive yourself home after the procedure is complete.

If you have questions about our sedation options, please give us a call. To learn more about services we provide at our practice, visit www.fullertondental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, in Fullerton CA, call 714-879-7943. 

Gum Disease Stages

If you want to keep your permanent teeth for a lifetime, then you need to practice a proper oral hygiene routine on a daily basis. If you don’t, you’re already headed down the road toward gum disease. Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums that can progress to affect the bone that surrounds and supports your teeth and there are three stages that you need to be aware of. You should always schedule professional cleanings and oral exams with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS twice a year to avoid this condition.

• Gingivitis – This is the earliest stage of gum disease, an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup at the gum line. If daily brushing and flossing do not remove the plaque, it produces toxins that can irritate the gum tissue, causing gingivitis. This is when you’ll notice blood in the sink after you complete your brushing routine. However, at this early stage, damage can be reversed, since the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place are not yet affected.


• Periodontitis – This is the second stage of gum disease. By this point, the supporting bone and fibers that hold your teeth in place are irreversibly damaged. Your gums may even begin to form a pocket below the gum line, which traps food and plaque.


• Advanced Periodontitis – This is the final stage of gum disease, and the fibers and bone supporting your teeth are officially destroyed. In this case, your teeth may begin to shift or loosen and your bite may also be affected. If aggressive treatment can’t save them, the teeth will need to be extracted.

If you have sensitive gums, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about the services provided at the practice, visit www.fullertondental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, in Fullerton CA, call 714-879-7943.

How an Apicoectomy Saves a Tooth

When root canals fail to completely clear up a tooth infection, it means the infection is very deep. To clear up the infection for good, Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS can perform an apicoectomy here in our Fullerton, CA office. An apicoectomy is a procedure to clean out a root canal from the tip of the root.

An apicoectomy may be necessary to save a tooth if one or more root canal procedures failed to keep the infection away. An apicoectomy is a surgical procedure that cleans out the infection from the other side of the tooth, directly through the tooth’s root. First, Dr. Meyer will make incisions in the gums to reveal the root’s tip. Sometimes bone tissue will need to be removed to access the root, so in that case, bone tissue removal will be the next step. Upon access to the root, any infected tissue surrounding the root will be removed. The last few millimeters of the root will also be removed so the root canal can then be cleaned out and sealed again. The bone and gum tissues are put back in place and the gums are stitched together to heal.

When root canals fail, an apicoectomy is the next step to make sure the patient does not lose the tooth. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, call our Fullerton, CA office at (714) 879-7943 or visit our website, www.fullertondental.com. 

Implant-Retained Dentures

Dentures are a common tooth replacement option; however, many patients do not like when dentures are ill-fitting or loose. For a more stable option, Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS provides his patients with implant-retained dentures here in his Fullerton, CA dental practice.

Implant-retained dentures are a much stronger and more stable base for dentures. This is because the dentures are clipped onto implants that are inserted into your bone sockets. It is like giving the implants an anchor. To do this, Dr. Meyer will insert four to six mini implants into the upper or lower gum line. Mini implants are about half the size of traditional implants, so they do not require an incision. This means healing takes much less time; the dentures can be installed the same day as the implants. In addition, most denture sets are able to be altered to fit onto implants, so many patients can keep the dentures they are already using.

The dentures are able to be clipped in and out by the patient. Patients will now be able to enjoy talking, laughing, eating, and smiling all without worrying about their dentures moving around. Implants also slow down the degeneration of the jaw bone, which is a natural occurrence when teeth are missing. This means the dentures will remain fitting comfortably for a long time.

If you are experiencing ill-fitting dentures, it may be time to look into implant-retained dentures. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS in Fullerton, CA, call our office at (714) 879-7943 or visit our website, www.fullertondental.com. 

Dental Benefits of Xylitol

If you wish to reduce the bacteria in your mouth and have healthier teeth, Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS suggests incorporating some xylitol into your diet. Xylitol is a natural sugar alcohol that helps prevent cavities and unlike regular table sugar (sucrose) that causes cavities, xylitol protects the teeth from decay. The next time you decide to sweeten your coffee or tea with some sugar, reach for the xylitol instead.

Xylitol is equal in sweetness and volume to sugar and the granular form can be used in many of the ways that sugar is used, including to sweeten cereals and hot beverages. Tooth decay happens when bacteria in your mouth consume the sugars we eat. When we eat food that contains ordinary sugar, it gives bacteria on your teeth energy, allowing them to multiply and start producing acids that can eat away the enamel on teeth. Xylitol has the properties to reduce these cavity-causing pests because the bacteria are unable to digest it.  Xylitol is widely available in health food stores and since it comes in a variety of forms, you can use it for almost anything.

If you have further questions about the dental benefits of xylitol, please give us a call. To learn about our services we provide at the practice, visit www.fullertondental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS in Fullerton, CA, call 714-879-7943.

Show Off Your Smile!

At the dental practice of Dr. Eric M Meyer DDS, we always want you to be ready to smile for the camera. If you need a confidence boost because your smile looks a little lackluster, we offer a variety of teeth whitening services to help your pearly whites shine bright. However, if there is any reason you can’t go the cosmetic route at this moment, we thought we’d share these tips that will help you show off the photogenic smile you already have.

• Be natural – when it’s picture time, smile gently. That way, your face looks relaxed. Your mouth opens slightly, and your lower lip matches the curve of your upper teeth.


• Check your teeth and gums – getting your smile camera-ready sometimes calls for a little behind the scenes prep work. If your pearly whites have yellowed with age, try an over-the-counter whitening product or pay us a visit! Also, don’t forget about taking care of your gums. They play a critical role in your nice smile. So keep them in good shape by brushing, flossing, and rinsing with a mouthwash every day.


• Practice – your perfect smile may not happen overnight, but if you have a big photo event like a wedding or a graduation coming up, it doesn’t hurt to try out your grin in front of the mirror!

If you wish to improve the appearance of your smile, please give us a call. To learn about our services we provide at the practice, visit www.fullertondental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS in Fullerton, CA, call 714-879-7943.

Teeth Types and Functions

Teeth talk is popular at the dental practice of Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS. In fact, our staff takes pride in educating you about keeping your teeth healthy on a regular basis. Since we’re already on the topic of teeth, have you ever wondered why all of your choppers are shaped differently? That’s because you have different types that all serve a different purpose. Your teeth look different from one another because they are designed to do different things. Not only do they help you speak, but how else would you be able to swallow your food?  Read on to learn about the different types of teeth and their functions!

• Incisors – located at the front of the mouth, these teeth have a sharp biting surface and are used for cutting or shearing food into small chewable pieces.


• Canines – located at the ‘corners’ of the dental arches, these teeth have a sharp pointed biting surface. Their function is to grip and tear food.


• Premolars – Unlike incisors and canines, these teeth have a flat biting surface. Their function is to tear and crush food.


• Molars – The molars are the largest teeth in the mouth and they too have a large flat biting surface. The function of these is perhaps the strongest of all as they chew, crush, and grind food.

If you have questions about your pearly whites, please give us a call. To learn about our services we provide at the practice, visit www.fullertondental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS in Fullerton, CA, call 714-879-7943.

Make Sure You Are Brushing For Two Minutes!

To get a good cleaning, you should be spending about two minutes brushing your teeth. However, many patients only spend a few seconds. Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS of Fullerton, CA wants to ensure his patients are taking excellent home oral care. Take some tips for making sure you are spending enough time brushing!

When brushing, you need to make sure you hit all the surfaces of the teeth including the insides, the fronts, the chewing surfaces, and the backs of the back molars. In addition, you should be brushing the roof of your mouth, your tongue, and the insides of your cheeks. These are places where bacteria can collect and make dental plaque worse.

Many music players have counters on them, so turn on your favorite tune and rock out while you brush! Just look for the two-minute mark. Another great way is to set up an hour glass, or in this case, a minute glass. You just need to turn it over a second time for the full two minutes.

Splitting the mouth into four sections is also a good way to break up the minutes and get an even brushing. Spend thirty seconds on the upper-right section, thirty seconds on the upper-left section, and so on for the two lower sections.

Good dental care will lead to good dental checkups. To schedule your appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS of Fullerton, CA, call our office at (714) 879-7943 or visit our website, www.fullertondental.com. 

Sensitivity Solutions

Sensitive teeth can be a real pain, especially while enjoying your favorite hot or cold beverages. Sensitive teeth usually need to be checked by your dentist, but there are ways to avoid it. Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS of Fullerton, CA wants his patients to be aware of what can cause sensitive teeth and what they can do about it.

Sensitive teeth are often caused by worn down tooth enamel; exposing the dentin. The dentin contains tiny tubes that lead to the center of the tooth where all the nerves are. To avoid wearing down your enamel, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, plaque comes off your teeth with a light touch so you do not have to scrub hard. Secondly, if you grind or clench your teeth, you may want to consider wearing a night guard.

Enamel can also be worn down by brushing too soon. Yes, it is true, you can brush too soon! The foods we eat contain acids that can soften enamel. Wait at least thirty minutes after eating to brush so the enamel can re-harden. In addition, very acidic foods and drinks should be enjoyed in moderation.

If you are experiencing sensitive teeth, it could be as simple of a fix as changing a habit. However, you should get sensitivity checked by Dr. Meyer to ensure you do not have a cavity or a fracture. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS of Fullerton, CA, call our office at (714) 879-7943 or visit our website,  www.fullertondental.com. 

Habits That Are Bad For Teeth

Do you use your teeth as tools? For example, maybe you use them to open a bag of potato chips, uncap a bottle of nail polish, or to rip a price tag off a piece of clothing. If you do, Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS suggests that you break these habits immediately. This is because these patterns can be hard on your teeth, traumatizing them or causing the edge of a weakened tooth to chip off or even fracture.

Other habits that are bad for your teeth include brushing them too hard, chewing ice cubes and even nail-biting. Would you believe that the Academy of General Dentistry estimates that frequent nail biters may rack up $4,000 in additional dental bills over the course of their lifetime? That’s a lot of money to spend on something that could be avoided. We understand that breaking bad habits are hard. However, you can take steps to reduce them by simply being aware that you are doing them.

To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.fullertondental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS here in our Fullerton, CA office, call 714-879-7943.

Beware of Plaque

Plaque is a soft, sticky film that builds up on your teeth and contains millions of bacteria. These bacteria develop when foods containing carbohydrates (sugars and starches), such as milk, soft drinks, or candy are frequently left on the teeth. Bacteria that live in the mouth thrive on these foods, producing acids as a result. Over a period of time, these acids destroy tooth enamel, resulting in tooth decay. This is why it’s important to visit Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS for professional cleanings.

Plaque can also develop on the tooth roots under the gum and cause breakdown of the bone supporting the tooth. When this happens, the gum tissue can become red, swollen, and possible bleed when you brush your teeth. This is called gingivitis, an early stage of periodontal (gum) disease. To prevent plaque buildup and gum disease, brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft, rounded tip bristled toothbrush. You should also floss between teeth at least once a day to remove food particles and bacteria.

If you have plaque buildup or are due for a dental checkup, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.fullertondental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS here in our Fullerton, CA office, call 714-879-7943.

Implant Retained Dentures

When you think of dentures, unfortunately, you may think of ill-fitting dentures that slip around when you talk or eat. However, with advancements in dentistry, Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS is able to offer a more stable way to use dentures here at our Fullerton, CA dental practice. Dr. Meyer utilizes mini dental implants to give dentures the strongest, most stable base they have ever had.

Mini dental implants are placed along with upper and lower jaw lines. Usually, between four and six are used per jaw line. The dentures are then modified so that they clip right into the mini implants. They are easy to clip in for patients, so their dentures are still just as removable as before. The difference, however, is a stable base that fits well, feels good, and doesn’t move around. Laughing, smiling, talking, and chewing are all the better with dentures that fit. Implant-retained dentures also help keep the jawbone from degenerating as quickly! So your dentures will fit better for longer.

Mini dental implants are about half the size of traditional dental implants, so they take much less time to heal. There is no actual surgery needed. Dentures are often able to be placed the same day as the mini implants!

If you are looking for a tooth replacement option or looking for a better option for your dentures, mini dental implants may be perfect for you! To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS here in our Fullerton, CA office, call us at (714) 879-7943 or visit our website, www.fullertondental.com. 

Cosmetic Dentistry Options for a Beautiful Smiles

When meeting someone new or facing any ordinary day, you want to be able to put your best smile forward! A beautiful smile gives us confidence and reasons to flash those pearly whites! Here in our Fullerton, CA dental office, Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS offers several cosmetic dentistry options to bring your smile up to where you want it!

If you are looking for bright, white teeth, look no further than our professional whitening systems; BrightSmiles, ZOOM!, and take-home custom whitening trays. Depending on your current level of staining and your lifestyle, Dr. Meyer will choose the system that will work best for you. Our patients often receive smiles 4-10 shades whiter!

If you are looking for a total smile overhaul, we have veneers and Lumineers available. These are thin, ceramic shells that are bonded to your existing teeth. They are fantastic for fixing the look of gapped teeth, misaligned teeth, chips, cracks, discoloration and much more. They are also durable and stain-resistant!

Teeth are not the only part of our mouth that can affect a smile. Gums are also part of our aesthetics. For those who deal with “gummy smile”, the excess gum tissue may make their teeth appear shorter. In this case, we can perform a crown lengthening. This procedure takes away excess gums, uncovering more of the tooth and creating a nice, even gum line.

If you are hiding your smile because of cosmetic issues, be sure to schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer to learn about your options! To schedule an appointment at our Fullerton, CA dental practice, call our office at (714) 879-7943 or visit our website, www.fullertondental.com. 

Brushing and Flossing With Braces

Brushing and flossing are essential for clean, healthy teeth. With braces, proper brushing and flossing are a little more complicated, but still vitally important. Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS of Fullerton, CA wants all of his patients to have their own action plan for great oral care.

When wearing braces, it means that you have brackets that can collect plaque and wires that can prevent you from reaching areas of your teeth. This means you will need to implement some new dental supplies. Make sure you own an interdental cleaner. These are those little tree-like brushes that will allow you to go under the wires to clean the sides of your brackets. Then make sure you are also brushing along the tops and the bottoms of your brackets with a regular toothbrush. You want to be able to see all four sides of a bracket clearly when you are finished; no plaque in sight.

When it comes time for your daily flossing, purchasing Superfloss or floss threaders will help. They help you get the floss underneath your wire easier and faster. Flossing is very important to avoid cavities between teeth. It will also help avoid staining.

Brushing, flossing, and visits to your dentist for a cleaning and examination are all important parts of proper oral health. To schedule your appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, call our Fullerton, CA office at (714) 879-7943 or visit our website, www.fullertondental.com. 

What to Expect After a Crown Application

Any dental procedure will probably introduce some changes in your mouth. Maybe it is just healing time or maybe it is getting used to the feeling of a newly restored tooth. When a dental crown is applied, there are several things you will need to be aware of that Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS of Fullerton, CA wants you to know.

During the process of applying a crown restoration, you will most likely wear a temporary crown while your permanent crown is being created. We take impressions of your tooth and the surrounding area so that a laboratory can create a custom crown, so it may take a few weeks for the crown to be ready. During the time you are wearing the temporary crown, you want to be careful when eating and cleaning your teeth. Stay away from especially hard or sticky foods, as this may pull on the crown or make it pop off. When brushing and flossing, be gentle on the tooth (you should be brushing gently anyway). When flossing, do not pull up on the floss. Instead, move the floss upward gently by moving the floss back and forth.

After your permanent crown is cemented into place, the gum tissues in the area will need some time to heal. They may feel sore or irritated and there may be some swelling. You can take ibuprofen or rinse with salt water to help with swelling and pain. After a while, the new crown will feel like one of your own teeth.

For more information about dental crowns, feel free to visit our website. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS, of Fullerton, CA, call us at (714) 879-7943 or visit our website, www.fullertondental.com. 

Do You Clean Your Tongue?

When brushing your teeth, do you clean your tongue? It is a simple, but often skipped step that your oral health can really benefit from. Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS of Fullerton, CA is committed to healthy mouths for all of his patients. Keep reading to learn how to clean your tongue and why it is important.

The tongue is a harbor for bacteria. With tiny, hair-like taste buds, bacteria can become trapped, leading to more plaque, more cavities, and bad breath! Just like how plaque can form a thin film over the teeth, a thin, bacterial film can also form over the tongue. You should clean your tongue each time you clean your teeth.

To clean your tongue, you only need your toothbrush. There are, however, tongue scrapers on the market where most dental supplies are sold. They are usually plastic or metal and do about the same job as a toothbrush.

Take your toothbrush or tongue scraper and place it on the back of your tongue, press down firmly and drag the toothbrush down towards the tip of your tongue. Do not press down hard; this may injure taste buds. Just press firmly. You can usually see the color of the film when you rinse your toothbrush off. Scrape your tongue a few times until it looks clean, rinsing your toothbrush or tongue scraper after each stroke.

By cleaning your tongue, you are on your way to a cleaner, healthier mouth (and fresher breath)! To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS of Fullerton, CA, call our office at (714) 879-7943 or visit our website, www.fullertondental.com. 

Brushing and Flossing with Arthritis

Living with arthritis can create some change in your life. You may not be able to do things the same way you once did them. For example, dental care may change if you have stiff and painful hands. While you may not be able to brush your teeth or floss easily, it is still very important to uphold your oral health. In our Fullerton, CA dentistry, Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS wants all patients to be able to take good oral care at home.

If you are having difficulty using and controlling your hands, brushing and flossing can be difficult. To make it easier on yourself, look for dental supplies that can help you out. Look for a toothbrush with a thick, non-slip handle. Electric toothbrushes may do you even better since they do a lot of the work on their own. There are even toothbrushes made for those with arthritic hands.

When it comes to flossing, wrap the floss into a loop for better control and grasp. A floss pick may be a good option, as well. If you find you are unable to reach areas of your mouth, you may need to ask for help. A mouthwash may also help cut down on bacteria and plaque.

Oral care is important for your overall health. To schedule your routine cleaning and examination with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS here in Fullerton, CA, call our office at (714) 879-7943 or visit our website, www.fullertondental.com. 

Avoid Stains for Whiter, Brighter Teeth!

Bright and shiny teeth are something so many of us desire, but with certain favorite foods or daily habits we have, it can be hard to keep them that way. If you are looking for a whiter smile, Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS can put you on your way! Take some tips for avoiding staining, plus ask about our professional whitening here in our Fullerton, CA dentistry!

Staining teeth is unfortunately pretty easy to do. Dark foods, drinks, and smoking will slowly darken teeth if the right steps are not taken to prevent it. Remembering to brush your teeth two to three times per day can help reduce plaque and reduce the staining that takes place as a result. Make it a goal to brush in the morning, in the afternoon, and before bed. Also, remember to floss, as skipping it can also lead to staining.

Sip dark liquids like coffee or cola through a straw. This limits the amount of contact the drink has with your teeth, almost passing them up altogether! When it comes to smoking, quit! Smoking not only stains teeth, but it stains breath and wreaks havoc on oral tissues. Not to mention the risk of cancer and the effects it has on your lungs and cardiovascular system.

One more tip for those looking to achieve a bright, white smile: skip the baking soda! Many take this “homemade” recipe for white teeth way too far. Baking soda is very abrasive; so abrasive that it can wear down enamel, revealing the darker dentin of your teeth. A darker smile is the opposite of what you’re going for. Plus, it can lead to more cavities and sensitivity.

To learn more or to check out our professional teeth whitening procedures, call our Fullerton, CA office at (714) 879-7943 or visit our website, www.fullertondental.com. Appointments may be made with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS by calling or visiting our website. 

How to Make Dental Care Fun for Kids

As adults, we know that taking care of our teeth is important for our oral and even overall health. Children, however, do not always understand the importance of daily oral care and may skip it as a result. In our Fullerton, CA dental practice, Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS wants to make sure all of his patients are making their dental health a priority two to three times per day. Check out some tips for making dental care fun for kids!

Kids love story time. Try to create a story around brushing teeth, like the space monsters are cavities and the toothbrush is a laser that will vanquish them! This may make the task more interesting! Add new parts to the story every night so they will always have a reason to brush!

Purchase fun dental supplies like colorful toothbrushes with their favorite characters on them, flavored floss, and tasty toothpaste! Kid-friendly products making brushing and flossing seem less like a chore.

Create a reward chart. Place a sticker on each day that they brush two to three times and floss once. When they hit a certain amount of days or weeks of doing it every day, offer a reward. These can be simple like cooking their favorite meal, extra time at the park, or renting a new movie.

When oral care is made fun, kids are more likely to create a habit of doing it. To schedule a cleaning and examination with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS here in our Fullerton, CA office, call us at (714) 879-7943 or visit our website, www.fullertondental.com. 

How to Choose the Right Toothpaste For You

Choosing toothpaste can seem confusing, especially now when there are so many different types to choose from. Toothpastes almost have their own aisle! Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS of Fullerton, CA wants the best oral care possible for his patients. Check out some of the different kinds of toothpaste available for different dental needs!

The first ingredient you want to look for in a toothpaste is fluoride because it helps prevent cavities. Fluoride coats teeth and protects the enamel from acid and plaque. If you’re looking for a boost in smile power, choose a toothpaste that also has whitening capabilities. Most whitening toothpaste will polish surface stains and prevent new stains; however, if you choose a toothpaste with modified silicone abrasives, you are more likely to get a whiter effect.

Sensitive teeth that are not caused by cavities or infection could benefit from a toothpaste specially made for sensitive teeth. These often contain strontium chloride or potassium nitrate.

If you are looking for a more natural toothpaste, there are all-natural toothpastes out there. You just want to be sure that with any type of toothpaste you buy, you are sure that the American Dental Associate has approved it with their seal. This ensures that the toothpaste is safe and does what it claims to.

Remember to brush two to three times per day! For more dental hygiene help, schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric M Meyer, DDS in our Fullerton, CA dentistry. To schedule, call us at (714) 879-7943 or visit our website, www.fullertondental.com.