How important is your smile?

At the dental practice of Dr. Michael G. Long, we treat patients in a casual, relaxed, and family-friendly environment. Dr. Long and our team are dedicated to giving you, our patient, the care you deserve and the healthy, bright smile you want.

And speaking of smiles, in a new poll conducted by Glamour Magazine, people were asked, “If you had to pick between having perfect teeth, eyesight or hair, which would you choose?

Well, 44 percent of folks out there are choosing teeth! In addition, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, or AACD, conducted a study and found that 99.7 percent of those polled believed a smile is an important social asset. Respondents said straightness, whiteness, cleanliness, as well as the sincerity and sparkle of a person’s smile were all important factors not only socially, but career-wise as well

Contact our Fresno, CA Dental practice, located in the Pinedale neighborhood today at (559) 432-4850 and start your journey toward a lifetime of bright smiles!

Complimentary Consultations at Dr. Long's office

At the dental practice of Dr. Michael G. Long, we treat patients in a casual, relaxed, and family-friendly environment. Dr. Long and our Fresno team are dedicated to giving you, our patient, the care you deserve and the healthy, bright smile you want.

One of our commitments is meeting with you to help you explore all or the options available to you or your child. We offer complimentary consultations for those interested in dental treatment. During this time, you'll have time reserved with Drs. Perry and Long, who will assess your particular needs as well as discuss treatment options available and answer any questions you may have. We place a high value on making sure you have complete information before beginning your dental treatment.

If you have been thinking about obtaining the dazzling smile you’ve always wanted, we invite you to give us a call at our Fresno, CA dental office!

We look forward to working with you, your family and all of your wonderful smiles!

Share your story with us! Why did you choose Dr. Long's office?

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 Places page and write a review there.

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

You may write a review here.

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

What is your New Year's Resolution?

2011 is here—and what a year 2010 was at the office of Dr. Michael Long! Today, we thought we’d ask: what was memorable about 2010 for you, and what are you most looking forward to this year? Do you have a new year's resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

We would love to see what you come up with, share with us by commenting on this post or on our Facebook page. Whatever your New Year’s Resolution, we wish you the very best for 2011!

What is your New Year's Resolution?

2011 is here—and what a year 2010 was at the office of Dr. Michael Long! Today, we thought we’d ask: what was memorable about 2010 for you, and what are you most looking forward to this year? Do you have a new year's resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

We would love to see what you come up with, share with us by commenting on this post or on our Facebook page. Whatever your New Year’s Resolution, we wish you the very best for 2011!

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!

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!

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.

Dr. Long, reminding you that regular checkups are important

Dr. Long and his team want to know: Are you brushing your teeth twice a day? If yes, that’s fantastic! But, don’t forget that it’s also important to visit our 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. Dr. 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 Dr. Long and team will 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 the dentist in the last six months, it’s time for you to schedule an appointment!

Happy New Year from the entire team at Michael G. Long D.D.S.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from Dr. Long and team!

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as Dr. Long and his 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 2010? Opening
presents by the fireplace? All the delicious food? 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!

A great article about changes in dentistry, from Dr. Long

The world around us is always changing and evolving, whether it’s the latest gadget you ordered online or the high-tech braces you're wearing on your teeth! Recently, Dr. Long and his team read an article in the New York Times about dental implants, and how they are becoming increasingly favored over bridges to replace lost teeth. One thing to remember about dental implants is that they need to be cared for just like your regular teeth; daily brushing and flossing are a must!

Call us today to schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation with Dr. Long to discuss your implant options.

Happy Wednesday!

What do you love about Michael G. Long, D.D.S?

From your very first visit to our office Dr. Long and his team strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. Have you been especially impressed by Dr. Long? Did our team go out of their way to make your day? Do you love your new smile?

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback on our networks. Or, you can tell us by giving us a call!

Thank you and happy Wednesday!
The team at Michael G. Long, D.D.S

Is fluoride your friend? You bet it is! Dr. Long explains...

There are so many ways you protect your teeth! You brush your teeth twice a day and floss regularly. But did you know there is another, often forgotten about, way to keep your teeth clean and healthy? Fluoride – a mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay – can help keep your teeth strong! Fluoride comes in two varieties: topical and systemic. Topical fluoride is applied directly to the tooth. Topical fluoride includes toothpastes and mouth rinses. Systemic fluorides are swallowed in the form of a dietary supplement. Dr. Long uses in-office fluoride treatments to help protect the oral health of adults and children undergoing dental procedures.

Fluoride used in the our office is often times a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask Dr. Long how to purchase professional strength fluoride). A fluoride treatment typically takes just a few minutes. After the treatment, patients may be asked not to rinse, eat or drink for at least 30 minutes in order to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride. Depending on your oral health or Dr. Long's recommendation, you may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six or 12 months. Dr. Long may also prescribe a fluoride product such as mouthwashes, gels or antibacterial rinses for at-home treatment.

When choosing your own fluoride product be sure to check for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of acceptance. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined and have met the criteria of the ADA for safety and effectiveness. Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

--From Dr. Long and his team

Happy Thanksgiving, from Dr. Long and team

Dr. Long and his team would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. It's a big food holiday, so be careful what you eat, especially if you have braces! If you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we'd encourage you to send them along or call our office and ask how.

Gobble Gobble!