The importance of regular checkups

Dr. Michael Long and our team want to know: Are you brushing your teeth twice a day? If the answer is yes, we think that’s fantastic! But, don’t forget that it’s also important to visit our Fresno office every six months, in addition to brushing your teeth a couple times a day. Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health. Drs. Perry and Long can:

• Check for problems that might not be seen or felt

• Detect cavities and early signs of decay

• Treat oral health problems early

During an oral exam we will usually check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If you have not been to our office in the last six months, it’s time for you to schedule an appointment!

Have a safe and happy New Year, to all our patients, friends, family and all our dental and medical colleagues in Fresno and surrounding areas in Central Valley.

See you all in 2011!

Season's greetings from Dr. Long and team!

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as Dr. Long and our team reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What do you love about the holidays this year? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for 2011? Opening presents by the fireplace? All the delicious food we eat? Also, what gift are you most looking forward to getting this year?

We’d love if you shared with us all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets!

Happy Holidays!

What helps you relax at our office?

Drs. Perry and Long understand that not everyone is always thrilled to see the dentist. But we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit.

At our Fresno office, we treat patients in a casual, relaxed and family-friendly environment. Drs. Perry and Long and our team are dedicated to giving you, our patient, the care you deserve and the healthy, bright smile you want.

Today, we’d like to know: What is it about our office that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our friendly staff? Drs. Long or Perry?

Let us know by posting here, on Facebook or by giving us a call! Enjoy the rest of your week!

Staying connected with Dr. Long and team

At the office of Dr. Michael Long, we embrace new technology, whether it is through the innovative dental treatments our doctors offer, our high-tech website and social networks, or our modern office conveniently located here in Fresno.

As you can probably tell, we love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our Facebook page. For social media to work, however, we understand that conversation is vital, and that’s why we invite you to join in and tell us what’s on your mind. Although social networks like Facebook and Twitter are hugely popular these days, we know they’re unpredictable and ever-changing.

While we take a little time to research how to best use social media moving forward, we thought we’d ask you, our loyal patients: How would you like us to use our social networks? What would you like us to share on our blog? Please post your thoughts or give us a call! Have a great weekend!

Giving thanks this holiday season

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season almost here, our entire staff at the office of Dr. Michael Long wanted to stop for a moment to say how thankful we are to have you in our dental family. We realize that our practice here in Fresno thrives because of our great patients. We are the lucky ones because we not only help keep you and your smile healthy, but we also have the pleasure of knowing you and your loved ones.

As always, if you know anyone we can help, just let us know. We promise to give them the same quality care that we have given you. We hope that this Thanksgiving and holiday season brings fond memories. Thank you for being part of our family.

Cosmetic dentistry in Fresno and greater Central Valley – Michael G. Long D.D.S

There are many dentists in Fresno and the Greater Central Valley area working hard to bring beautiful smiles to their patients. Cosmetic dentistry has begun to earn the positive acclaim it deserves due to the latest surge of makeover TV shows. Many of our patients have spent great time and effort when choosing Dr. Michael G. Long and Drs. Kasey and Kevin Perry to be their cosmetic dentists.

Located in Fresno, we treat patients from all over the Central Valley and provide flexible scheduling to optimize your convenience. When choosing a dentist, please use this blog and our website to learn more about cosmetic and general dentistry in all its forms from smile enhancement, to dental restoration, to regular checkups, and simple teeth whitening. The first step to making Fresno smile is to make you smile!

Please call our office to learn more about cosmetic dentistry, or check us out on Facebook!

Hey Dr. Long, when should I replace my toothbrush?

Fall is here, and so is the dreaded cold and flu season. After recovering from your cold, Dr. Michael Long and our team encourage you to replace your toothbrush in order to avoid being reinfected!

Germs can linger on the bristles, and you risk prolonging your sickness by continuing to use the same toothbrush. Be smart - keep a spare, just in case! To protect your toothbrush from bacteria all year long, consider the following tips:

• Wash your hands before and after brushing

• Allow the brush to air dry after each use, harmful bacteria dies after being exposed to oxygen

• Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster

• Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Worn bristles are less effective in properly cleaning your teeth, and can actually be damaging to teeth if used too long!

Hope this tip helps! Feel free to give us a call or ask us on Facebook if you have any questions!

Congrats to our GIANTS!

Dr. Long and our entire staff would like to congratulate our San Francisco Giants for winning the 2010 World Series last night! They won the Series in just 5 games, which is VERY impressive no matter WHO you play, and we couldn't be more proud of them!

Don't throw your insurance benefits away! From Dr. Long & team

Our entire team at Michael G. Long DDS would like to give those patients with flex spend, health savings, or insurance benefits a friendly end of the year reminder that it's about that time to schedule your dental visit so you can optimize your benefits!

Now is the time to reserve you appointment with us. Space is limited and we get VERY busy around the holidays, so don’t wait to give us a call! Have a wonderful rest of the week!

Connect with us on Facebook!

At the office of Dr. Michael G. Long, we value the relationships we’ve developed with our patients in Fresno and surrounding areas over the years. Even if you visit our office on a regular basis, did you know you can always connect with us on Facebook?

By “Liking” us on Facebook, you will receive regular updates and announcements from our office – all through your news feed!

See you on Facebook, and have a wonderful rest of the week!

- Drs. Long & Perry and team

Share your experience at our office with the world!

At the dental practice of Dr. Michael G. Long, we treat patients in a casual, relaxed, and family-friendly environment. Dr. Long and his team are dedicated to giving you, our patient, the care you deserve and the healthy, bright smile you want. Oral hygiene is at the core of what we do at our convenient Fresno office. We believe that a healthy mouth contributes to a healthy lifestyle, and we always want you to feel like your smile matters – because to us, it does!

Whether you've visited Drs. Long or Perry for a week, months or even years, we'd love to hear your feedback about how our office is doing! There are lots of ways you can share your thoughts about our practice with the rest of the world, but we encourage you to head to our Google Local listing and write a review there.

After all, reviews help Dr. Long create more beautiful smiles in Fresno and surrounding communities here in Fresno County.

You may write a review here.

Thank you in advance and enjoy your week! We look forward to reading your reviews!

Dr. Michael Long and team, supporting National Dental Health Month!

October is here, and for Dr. Michael Long and our staff, that means only one thing: National Dental Health Month.

Your teeth are an important part of your body, and keeping them clean helps keep your mouth and your body healthy. By taking care of your teeth, eating a balanced diet and visiting our convenient Fresno office on a regular basis, you can have healthy teeth and an attractive smile throughout your entire life.

We encourage you to check out the official National Dental Hygiene Month website, which provides pointers on keeping your mouth clean and healthy. Lastly, has it been six months since your last visit to Dr. Long's office? If the answer is yes, we encourage you to give us a call at 559-432-4850 to set up an appointment.

We hope you're having a wonderful weekend!

Dr. Michael Long wants to know: Do you suffer from sleep disorders?

Are you drowsy during the day with no explanation? Do you snore loudly, or wake up breathless in the middle of the night? If so, you may be one of more than 50- to 70 million Americans affected by some form of sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea is considered a serious medical problem that if left untreated can lead to high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart failure and stroke. It can also take a toll on your overall energy level, as sleep apnea causes an ongoing state of fatigue.

If you suspect that you or someone in your family is suffering from sleep apnea, please give us a call and we can refer you to a sleep apnea specialist here in Fresno. The specialist may recommend a "sleep study" to diagnose the precise extent of the problem, and can prescribe appropriate treatment. Depending on your situation, treatment may involve an oral device that we can custom-create for you.

Ask Dr. Long: What is MI Paste?

MI Paste/MI Paste Plus is a one-of-a-kind product that restores minerals and helps you produce saliva. It is the only dental product with RECALDENT™, a special milk-derived protein that is a breakthrough in oral health care in helping to remineralize teeth.

At Dr. Long's office, MI Paste and MI Paste Plus:

• Strengthen your teeth with tooth-replenishing calcium and phosphate
• Release vital minerals into your mouth when and where they are needed
• Produce a saliva-like environment that maintains normal acid levels and healthy teeth
• Help condition, protect and rebuild your tooth surfaces
• Are water-based, sugar-free crèmes that comes in five delicious flavors

MI Paste can be used as a regular tooth strengthener to keep your teeth strong and healthy, but it’s especially helpful in:

* Reducing tooth sensitivity from whitening products
* Rejuvenating and preventing sensitivity after professional cleaning
* Preventing white spots while wearing braces, and eliminating when braces are removed
* Relieving dry mouth caused by certain medications or chemotherapy
* Reducing high oral acid levels from excessive soft drinks or alcoholic beverages

For more information on how we use MI Paste and MI Paste Plus at our convenient Fresno office, we encourage you to read a bit more about this product.

$1.25 for a cavity?

Our staff at Michael G. Long DDS know that vending machines are a quick way to satisfy hunger: you put in $1.25 and you get back a candy bar, bag of chips or even a soda. But that’s not all! Vending machines not only dispense sweet treats and caffeine bursts, but they also dispense cavities!

Every time you chow down on that chocolate bar the bacteria in your mouth have a party feasting on the sugar. The sugar quickly turns into acid; that’s right, ACID!!! The acid sits on your teeth and eats away at the tooth’s natural enamel (the stuff that protects your tooth from decay). When this enamel is eaten away by the acid on your tooth, you get a cavity! Brushing your teeth after eating a sugary treat can help prevent cavities; but before you indulge remind yourself: “can’t brush? Hold the sugar!”

When choosing a snack, Drs. Perry and Long want you to consider these nutritional options that will not only satisfy your hunger and that "sweet tooth," but won’t cause acid build up resulting in cavities:

•Fresh Fruits (berries, oranges, melon, pears, etc)
•Raw Vegetables (broccoli, celery, carrots, etc)
•Bread
•Pretzels (low salt)
•Milk (low or non-fat)
•Cheese (low or non-fat)
•Nuts and seeds (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc)
•Sliced meat

Hope this helps! Give us a call at 559-432-4850 if you have any questions! Happy Thursday!

Healthy gums, healthy hearts! From Dr. Michael Long

Gum disease, known also as periodontal disease, is far more common in Americans than you may think. Year after year, new studies begin to link the effect gum disease can have on the heart, and we at the office of Dr. Michael Long have been helping spread the word! One of the simplest steps to achieving healthier gums can be your diet. Our staff recently found a great article outlining several options for healthier gums. Included among the suggestions were:

*Raisins
*Green Tea
*Whole Grains

In addition to these foods being gum-friendly, they happen to be healthy foods in general, and a great option to begin integrating into your diet this fall. If you have any questions about periodontal disease, please give us a call at 559-432-4850.

Welcome Drs. Kasey and Kevin Perry!

Dr. Michael Long and our entire staff are happy to welcome Dr. Kasey and Dr. Kevin perry to our Fresno office. Drs. Kasey and Kevin are recent graduates of U.O.P. Arthur Dugoni School of Dentistry. Born and raised in Fresno, they attended Clovis West High School, Fresno City College and graduated from San Diego State University with honors in Biology. While attending these institutions, they also played baseball.

Graduating from dental school with multiple awards, Drs. Kasey and Kevin bring a fresh approach to the practice of dentistry, which we're all excited about! We are sure you will enjoy meeting these two!

We are happy to now have the opportunity to provide more flexibility with appointments. Dr. Long, along with Drs. Kevin and Kasey will be able to deliver patients care during extended hours and Saturday appointments! Please give us a call at 559-432-4850 to schedule an appointment with our new doctors as soon as possible.

Happy Friday!

Introducing ONSET™, a painless and immediate anesthetic

Dr. Long and Perry's dental office is one of only 100 dental practices in the U.S. to use Onset by Onpharma buffered anesthesia for their dental injections. This new technique of buffering dental anesthetics just prior to inserting into tissues greatly reduces injection discomfort and creates instant anesthesia. Our office was chosen by Onpharma to be one of the first practices in the U.S. to use this technique.

Time for the anesthetic to work is greatly minimized due to the unique buffering of the solution, thus allowing immediate passage through the nerve sheath membrane, causing immediate and profound effect on pain receptors. Ordinary non-buffered solutions cause more discomfort and take longer to adequately anesthetize due to its acidic PH.

The usage of Onset will shorten the dental appointment and hopefully make painful dental injections a thing of the past. Drs. Long and Perry continue to expand the horizons of contemporary safe and comfortable dentistry for their patients.

The importance of flossing, from Dr. Michael Long

Dr. Michael Long and our staff hope you're not a part of the 51 percent of Americans who don’t floss daily. Or worse, we hope you're not part of the 10 percent who never floss at all. Our staff (as well as Dr. Long) will always tell you that proper flossing is just as important for your dental health as brushing regularly. Flossing cleans food and plaque that build up between teeth and below the gumline, key areas that brushing simply cannot reach.

Flossing 3-to-5 minutes everyday is recommended, but it's important to know that even a minute of flossing has a great benefit over not flossing at all. Also, make sure to always brush your teeth after you floss, and to rinse with water or mouthwash. When you begin flossing you may experience gum pain or bleeding, but with daily flossing and brushing this should stop within a week or so.

Lastly, has it been at least six months since your last visit with Dr. Long? If the answer is yes, we encourage you to schedule an appointment by calling 559-432-4850!

We hope you're enjoying your summer! Have a great Friday.

Tell us about your summer plans!

It’s summertime here at Michael G. Long DDS, which means a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories is here to stay for a couple more months. Whether you are headed to a barbecue, taking in a camping trip, hitting California’s open roads or just having fun around Fresno, we want to hear all about it! Leave a comment on our Facebook page and tell us about your summer!

We also encourage you to post any photos from your adventures to our Facebook wall!

Happy & safe travels everyone!

Patient question: "What's the deal with nail biting? Is it all that harmful?"

OK, so you know that biting your nails is a bad habit, but many people still wonder: what’s so awful about biting your nails once in a while? Recently, Dr. Michael Long and staff came across an interesting article on biting nails and the effect it has on your teeth and oral health.

Not only is nail biting unsanitary, it's also unattractive, unhealthy for your teeth and expensive!

Look at it this way:

• It’s unsanitary. Your nails are dirty, almost twice as dirty as your fingers! Hence, biting your nails is just asking for germs and bacteria.

• No good things come to your teeth. Nail biting causes your teeth to constantly be chewing, which is not good those pearly whites. This excessive motion wears your teeth down faster than a non-nail biter’s and puts a large amount of stress on your front teeth, contributing to teeth misalignment.

• It can be costly. Nail biting can result in up to $4,000 in additional dental bills over one lifetime, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Yikes!

Now that you know how harmful nail biting can be, it’s time to take action to break your that pesky habit of biting your nails. Have any questions about nail biting? We encourage you to ask Dr. Long next time you're in for a visit!

Ask Dr. Long: Can I swallow my chewing gum?

Dr. Michael Long and team know about all the rumors going around – mostly among young people – that once you swallow a piece of chewing gum it will stake a claim and take up residency in your stomach for at least seven years! We really hate to take all the fun out of the mystery, but the truth is that chewing gum, when swallowed, will enter the stomach and move through the digestive system just like any other piece of food and leave the body long before seven years! So, if you ever have accidentally swallowed a piece of gum, there is no need to worry!

This being said, gum does not have any dietary benefits, so while it’s not harmful to swallow, you still want to avoid swallowing it. If you are a gum-chewer, make sure you chew sugarless gum, because gum with sugar can lead to cavities. Sugarless gum still has the same amount of flavor, but with less cavity causing ingredients. You see, when the bacterium in your mouth breaks down sugar, what’s left behind is acid. This acid eats away at the enamel coating of your teeth, causing holes that we call cavities. Cavities can lead to other long term mouth problems if they are not treated in time, so it is best to try and avoid overexposing your teeth to too many harmful substances!

Happy (sugar-free) gum chewing everyone!

Featured patient reviews for Dr. Michael Long

Once in a while, Fresno dentist Dr. Michael Long and team get patient reviews that make us really proud to do the work we do at our convenient Fresno office: creating beautiful smiles. Check out these two reviews we received from two longtime patients and please feel free to contribute your own thoughts about our office!

"I've been going to Dr. Long for 20 years and will not go anywhere else, ever. He gives the most painless shots possible. He is soft spoken and kind. His front office is professional and most helpful. His hygienist staff mirrors his personality: kind, helpful and professional. I cannot say enough about the experience there. I highly recommend Dr. Michael Long."

"He and his staff are fun and friendly and willing to go out of their way to help you and your family. I have gone to him for 15 years and trust him and his staff. It is a wonderful feeling knowing that the staff knows your name and who you are. I highly recommend."

Dr. Michael Long, protecting you from oral cancer

In our continuing efforts at Michael G. Long DDS to provide the most advanced technology and highest quality dental care available to our patients, we screen our patients for oral cancer. The fact is, every hour of every day in the United States, someone dies of oral cancer, which is the sixth-most common diagnosed form of the deadly disease. The five-year survival rate is only 50 percent, and oral cancer is one of the few cancers whose survival rate has not improved with time.

Fresno dentist Dr. Michael Long will tell you early detection of pre-cancerous tissue can minimize or eliminate the potentially disfiguring effects of oral cancer and possibly save your life. Ask Dr. Long about a screening at your next appointment and have a great weekend!!

Smile! June is National Smile Month!

The American Dental Association discovered a while back that a person's smile was important than their eyes, hair and body as the most important physical feature. After all, there's a big reason why Americans spend as much as they do on general and cosmetic dentistry each year: folks want to look (and feel) great.

That brings us to June, also known as National Smile Month. It's a great time for Dr. Long to remind all of our patients to practice good oral hygiene between your visits to our office.

Here are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so you can celebrate National Smile Month for many, many years:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks.
* Visit Dr. Long regularly (usually every six months or sooner).

If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call at 559-432-4850. We hope you have a great weekend! Get out there and share your smiles with the rest of Fresno!

Dr. Michael Long and staff, wishing you a relaxing and memorable Memorial Day weekend

Memorial Day weekend, only two days away, is a time when Americans everywhere stop and remember all those men and women who bravely gave their lives for our country.

Memorial Day also marks the unofficial start of summer 2010, and for many folks in Fresno and surrounding communities in Central Valley, getting out of town for three days after being cooped up in the office or in the classroom means sweet, sweet relief. At the office of Dr. Michael Long, we also know Memorial Day weekend is ripe for travel. After all, it’s a season of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, hitting the great open roads or hanging out in your backyard this weekend, we want to know about it!

Our entire team at Michael G. Long DDS wish you a nice and relaxing Memorial Day weekend!

Wisdom teeth extraction in Fresno

Believe us when we say Dr. Michael Long and team know that the thought of tooth extraction is scary for most Americans. With wisdom teeth - the third and final set of molars that most people get in their late teens or early twenties - it's no different. There are four wisdom teeth: upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right

When a tooth is impacted, it may need to be removed. If it is not removed, you may develop gum tenderness, swelling, or even severe pain. Impacted wisdom teeth that are partially or fully erupted tend to be quite difficult to clean and are susceptible to tooth decay, recurring infections, and, yes, even gum disease. Before removing a wisdom tooth, Dr. Long will give you a local anesthetic to numb the area where the tooth will be removed. A general anesthetic may be used instead, especially if several or all of your wisdom teeth will be removed at the same time.

For more information on wisdom teeth, please visit this helpful page from our friends at WebMD.

Please give us a call at 559-432-4850 to learn more about wisdom teeth and whether it's time for your wisdom teeth to be extracted. We look forward to hearing from you!

Write a review of Dr. Michael Long!

At the dental practice of Dr. Michael G. Long, we treat patients in a casual, relaxed, and family-friendly environment. Dr. Long and his team are dedicated to giving you, our patient, the care you deserve and the healthy, bright smile you want. Oral hygiene is at the core of what we do. We believe that a healthy mouth contributes to a healthy lifestyle, and we always want you to feel like your smile matters – because to us, it does!

Whether you've visited Dr. Long for a week, months or even years, we'd love to hear your feedback about how our office is doing! There are lots of ways you can share your thoughts about our practice with the rest of the world, but we encourage you to head to our Google Local listing and write a review there.

After all, reviews help Dr. Long create more beautiful smiles in Fresno and surrounding communities here in Fresno County.

You may write a review here.

Thank you and enjoy your week! Dr. Long and team look forward to reading your reviews!

Your turn! From Dr. Michael Long

Week after week, Dr. Long and our creative team blog about important topics pertinent to dental care and your well-being, including innovative dental techniques offered at the office of Michael G. Long. Today, we thought we’d step back and ask you, our loyal patients and readers: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the field of dentistry? What would you like us to focus on our blog in the coming months? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook fan page!

So… take it away and we’ll try to answer any questions you may have!

"Hey, Dr. Long! Which toothbrush should my child use?"

Dr. Michael Long will tell you that brushing your teeth is one of the easiest methods of cavity prevention. But the question remains: which type of toothbrush should your child use? When choosing a toothbrush, look for round-ended (polished) bristles that clean while being gentle on the gums. Choose one that is specifically designed for children's smaller mouths and hands. Also, look for large handles that can help children control the toothbrush. Lastly, throw out a toothbrush after three months or sooner if the bristles are fraying. Frayed bristles have the ability to harm your gums, and are not as effective in cleaning teeth.

As far as which toothpaste is best? It doesn't matter as long as it has fluoride in it. However, for small children who tend to swallow toothpaste, do not use fluoridated toothpaste. Make sure to touch each tooth and every side of that tooth. Also, you do need to gently brush on your gums.

To learn more about choosing the right toothbrush and toothpaste for your child, we encourage you to read this helpful article from Parenthood.com. Or, you may give us a call at 559-432-4850 and we'll try to answer any question you may have about keeping your child's mouth as healthy as possible!

Dr. Long wants to know: could you be a teeth whitening addict?

Dr. Michael Long knows people want to look and feel great, and at a time when a set of sparkling teeth might mean the difference between getting a job, more and more folks are complaining about irritation and bleeding gums, excessive teeth sensitivity and translucent teeth.

At Michael G. Long DDS, we are proud of offer the latest in in-office whitening. The process takes just about an hour in our office. During chair-side bleaching, Dr. Long will apply either a protective gel to your gums or a rubber shield to protect the oral soft tissues. A bleaching agent is then applied to the teeth and a special light may be used to enhance the action of the agent.

We also have in-home whitening treatments, including teeth whitening trays, teeth-whitening strips, paint-on teeth whitening and whitening toothpaste. While all toothpastes help remove surface stain from your teeth through the action of mild abrasives. "Whitening" toothpastes in the ADA Seal of Acceptance program have special chemical or polishing agents that provide additional stain removal effectiveness. Unlike bleaches, these ADA Accepted products do not alter the intrinsic color of teeth.

Lastly, our friends at WebMD have written a helpful article on teeth whitening addiction, and we encourage you to give it a read if you suspect you may have a teeth whitening addiction.

Mr. Bean goes to the dentist! From Dr. Long

How about a treat today? Above is a little classic dental humor for you to enjoy, from the bumbling yet lovable British spy, Mr. Bean. Our staff loved it, and know you'll get a laugh as well. Enjoy "Mr. Bean Goes to the Dentist”!

Dr. Michael Long, helping kids overcome fears of the dentist

Dr. Michael Long is well-aware that many children have fear when it comes to visiting the dentist. Our team at Michael G. Long DDS found a great article on helping kids overcome fears of the dentist, courtesy of our friends at WebMD.

Dr. Long and our team excel at making children feel comfortable visiting the dentist. In fact, most of our young patients look forward to their next visit!

Has your child visited us in the last six months? If not, it’s time to schedule an appointment!

Smile wider, live longer, from Dr. Michael Long

Folks with big smiles may live than those who don’t, according to a new study at Michigan’s Wayne State University.

We’ve known for a long time that positive emotion has been linked to both physical and mental health, but researchers there used information from the Baseball Register to look at photos of 230 ball-players who began their careers in baseball before 1950. The players' photos were enlarged, and a rating of their smile intensity was made (big smile, no smile or partial smile).

The players' smile ratings were compared with data from deaths that occurred from 2006 through 2009. The researchers then corrected their analysis to account for other factors associated with longevity, such as body mass index, or BMI, career length and college attendance. The researchers found that players who weren't smiling died at the average age of 72.9 years. Players with partial smiles lived to be 75. Those with big smiles, however, lived on average to be 79.9 years old.

The take-away from the new study? Smile now, smile often and you might just live longer!

-- Dr. Long

Ask Dr. Long: Why cosmetic dentistry?

At Michael G. Long DDS, we know your smile is one of the most important aspects of your appearance. With the advent of new aesthetic dental treatments, a stunning, memorable smile is now easily within your reach. Offering cosmetic dentistry in Fresno and Central Valley, Dr. Michael Long would love to see you for a smile makeover if you are experiencing the following "symptoms":

* Do you hesitate when you smile?
* Would you like to increase your self-confidence?
* Do you want to look your best in social or professional situations?
* Are you ready to reverse dental imperfections caused by Mother Nature or an accident?

Dr. Long and our dedicated team can help you achieve your smile goals. Cosmetic dentistry is art and science working seamlessly together to offer smile enhancement, restoration, and maintenance for your optimal dental health. Using cutting-edge techniques and advanced materials, Dr. Long proudly offers you a beautiful, natural smile and all the benefits that come with it. You will look and feel better because a beautiful smile is a healthy smile.

If you have been wanting that perfect smile, please give us a call at 559-432-4850! We'd love to help!

March is National Nutrition Month! From Dr. Michael Long

You may remember our post from a few weeks ago about February being National Children's Dental Health Month. Well, we're now well into March, and March happens to be National Nutrition Month. Every March, Dr. Michael Long, as well as thousands of dentists take time to celebrate this occasion. This March, Dr. Long and our team want you to think diabetes, obesity and periodontal disease, and how healthful eating and physical activity may improve periodontal health.

Dr. Long and team know small changes really can make a big difference, and the American Dietetic Association (ADA) has some advice on ways to start improving your diet beginning this March:

• Focus on fruits and veggies: Add a serving each day to one meal and increase it every few weeks. Adding more of these foods into your diet is important whether you buy frozen, fresh or organic.

• Look locally: From farmer’s markets to community-supported agriculture, you have many options to find new, fresh foods here in Fresno.

• Make calories count: When you are choosing between options, focus instead on the one with more of the vitamins and nutrients that you need. Sometimes, foods with fewer calories aren’t always the healthiest options.

• Test your taste buds: Expand your horizons. Try a fish you’ve never eaten before or find a new vegetable recipe. By testing yourself, you might find new health favorites to add to your regular grocery list.

• Trick yourself with treats: If you have a sweet tooth, enjoy some fruit and yogurt for dessert. If you care for a snack in the afternoon, have some trail mix or nuts.

We hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions and have a great week!

Five helpful tips to avoid plaque, from Dr. Michael Long

Dr. Long and our staff know nobody likes getting plaque on their teeth, much less hearing the word 'plaque.' Here are five other ways you can avoid that dreaded enemy of the teeth, courtesy of our friends at WebMD.

Let’s start with not brushing regularly. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste is vital to a healthy mouth. Make sure you softly brush all the surfaces of your teeth.

Next on the list is not flossing daily: a simple daily flossing between teeth clears away plaque before it can cause damage and can also clean plaque at the gum line. Plaque is known to reach the spaces between teeth.

Also, avoiding a trip to visit Dr. Long's office is probably not a great idea. Let’s say you brush and floss daily. You’re still at risk for plaque. With time, the plaque hardens and turns into tartar. Consider visiting your dentist at least twice a year, and you have a lower chance of getting cavities or losing your teeth.

You’ll also want to stop avoiding those fruits and veggies. Believe it or not, there are foods out there that play a key role in keeping plaque off our teeth. They include apples, carrots, cucumbers and other raw fruits and vegetables.

Finally, before you pick that candy up, remember to not give in to your sweet tooth. Consuming sugary drinks or eating candy or other junk food allows sugar to stick to our teeth. The bacteria, then, becomes plaque, which turns into acid and damages our teeth. Avoiding these five bad habits keeps your plaque in check and your mouth as healthy as can be. If you have any questions, please give us a call or schedule an appointment!

Sleep Disorders and Treatment Options in Fresno - Dr. Michael Long

Dr. Michael Long knows sleep disorders are fairly common, with around 50 to 70 million Americans being affected by some type chronic sleep disorder, with some of these progressing to Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), which can cause loss of sleep among many other health problems. Snoring is one of the most easily identified symptoms, and as it worsens it can lead to full airway blockage while you sleep, which can severely disrupt your sleep patterns.

Sleep apnea is considered a serious medical problem that if left untreated can lead to high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart failure and stroke. It can also take a toll on your overall energy level, as sleep apnea causes an ongoing state of fatigue.

There are several different approaches to sleep apnea treatment, including:

• Surgery to the jaws or airway tissue to open the airway. This is typically only used in the most severe cases.
• Continuous airway pressure therapy which involves a mask and machine (CPAP machine) to keep your throat muscles and tissue open while sleeping
• Oral appliance therapy, a less intrusive method involving a customized oral device that positions your jaw in a favorable position to keep your airway open while you sleep.

If you suspect that you may suffer from a sleep disorder or sleep apnea, give us a call at 559-432-4850. Depending on your situation, treatment may involve an oral device that we can custom-create for you.

Happy Monday!

Michael G. Long DDS, supporting National Children's Dental Health Month

Last week, we blogged about the need to screen for gum and heart disease during the month of February, which is designated as "America's Heart Month." Well, February is also National Children’s Dental Health Month, and Dr. Michael Long is here to tell you about the need for preventative oral care in kids. For 60 Februaries, the American Dental Association, or ADA, has sponsored National Children's Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health. National Children's Dental Health Month began as a one-day event in 1941 in a Cleveland clinic. In 1981, however, the program was extended to a month-long celebration known today as National Children’s Dental Health Month.

Each February, Dr. Long and thousands of dental professionals in the U.S. focus on the preventive oral care of America's children. Dr. Long and our staff want you to remember developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Has your child visited our office the past six months? If not, it’s time to give us a call and schedule an appointment!

February is Heart Month - Dr. Michael Long

February is Heart Month, a time to take good stock of the health of your heart. Cardiovascular disease remains American's No.1 killer, claiming more lives than the rest of major causes of death, says the American Heart Association.

Studies have shown a correlation between gum disease and heart disease, underscoring the importance of good oral health care. Visiting our office regularly can help prevent gum disease or at least catch it in its early stages. And because people with dental insurance are more likely to visit a dentist, a healthy mouth begins with a visit to the office of Michael G. Long. In observance of Heart Month, Dr. Long says it’s also important to know your numbers: blood pressure (less than 120/80), cholesterol (less than 200) and BMI (less than 25). If you have any questions about heart health, or about your treatment with Dr. Long, please give us a call today.

Toothbrush Trivia with Dr. Michael Long!

People have been brushing their teeth for thousands of years! In fact, the first “toothbrush” was created around 3000BC! Ancient civilizations used a thin twig with a frayed edge to rub against their teeth for cleaning.

The first toothbrush with bristles – similar to today’s toothbrushes – was invented in 1498 in China. Brushes were made out of bone or bamboo with bristles made from the hairs on the back of a hog’s neck.

It wasn’t until 1938 that the first nylon bristle toothbrush was introduced and people quickly became aware of practicing good oral hygiene.

Here are some other interesting facts about your toothbrush (and toothpaste):

• Most people are said to use blue toothbrushes over any other color
• The first toothpaste was used in 500 BC in China and India
• On average, children smile about 400 times per day
• Your toothbrush should be replaced every two months
• The first known toothpaste was used in 1780, Crest was introduced in the US in 1955 and Colgate in 1873

Dr. Long wants to know: What do you love about Fresno?

The office of Michael G. Long, located in Fresno and serving surrounding communities, is situated around some pretty special neighborhoods here in Central Valley. Each is unique with its own personality, created by the people and places (and our amazing patients) living within.

Today, Dr. Long and our professional team thought we'd ask: What are your favorite things about Fresno or California in general? Is there a local event you attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery? Perhaps you have a favorite California getaway? Do you love the pleasant weather we enjoy year-round?

Please feel free to share some information about your favorite local hang-outs in Fresno, and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods.” And, who knows, Dr. Long and team just might post your response on our social networks! Enjoy the rest of your week!

Talking cavities, with Dr. Michael Long

Dr. Long knows one word nobody wants to hear when they visit the dentist is "Cavity"! That’s right, the dreaded cavity; but what exactly is a cavity and how do they happen? A cavity is a hole that develops in a tooth when the tooth begins to decay. It’s important to get a cavity filled as soon as it’s detected so that it does not grow bigger.

So, what causes a cavity you ask? A cavity is caused by plaque, a sticky substance that forms on the tooth as a result of germ and bacteria build-up. Plaque is acidic and as it clings to your teeth the acids eat away the outside of the tooth (also called the enamel) and a hole is formed.

The best prevention for cavities is regular checkups with Dr. Long and proper oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing. A regular checkup with Dr. Long and our team consists of a thorough cleaning, polishing, and an oral exam by the doctor. During the oral exam, the doctor checks the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks, and tongue. At each visit, Dr. Long also checks old fillings and restorations because constant pressure from chewing, grinding, or clenching can cause them to wear away, chip, or crack. Digital X-rays will also be taken to pinpoint the cavities and to help determine the best treatment options.

If you have any questions about cavities, or to schedule an appointment at Michael G. Long DDS, please feel free to give us a call.

Dr. Long and team want to know: What puts you at ease?

Dr. Long understands not everyone is thrilled to see the dentist. But we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. Dr. Long and our dedicated team treat patients in a casual, relaxed and family-friendly environment. Dr. Long and his team are dedicated to giving you, our patient, the care you deserve and the healthy, bright smile you want.

Today, we’d like to know: What is it about our office that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our friendly staff? Dr. Long himself?

Let us know by posting here or by giving us a call! Enjoy the rest of your week!

Five steps to a healthier mouth—and a healthier you, from Dr. Long

Dr. Michael Long would like to suggest to you an interesting article that talks about the steps you need to take to accomplish better oral health. The article is titled, "5 Steps to a Healthy Mouth," written by respected physician Dr. Andrew Weil. The author notes that using dental floss, washing your hands and massaging your gums with your fingertips, having your teeth and gums cleaned by Dr. Long twice a year and using a goldenseal mouth rinse are all part of keeping your mouth—and smile—healthy.

If you have any questions on good oral hygiene, give us a call! Have a great rest of the week, from the entire team at Michael G. Long, D.D.S!

Moooooove over Gum Disease! From Dr. Michael G. Long

Is dairy a major part of your diet? If not, it should be! A recent study from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) has found that regular consumption of dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, can lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease (also known as gum disease).

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth that affects the gums and jaw. Gum disease results in a loss of teeth and bone, and has been connected to certain cases of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease and osteoporosis.

Results of the study show that adults who consume at least 55 grams of lactic acid a day are less at risk for gum disease. Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth, says Dr. Long. Next time you reach for a quick snack, choose some cheese, or a glass of milk, and remember with each bite, and every sip you are preserving your teeth for a lifetime of smiles and good oral health!

For more information about keeping your teeth healthy, give us a call.