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San Clemente Journal

The Latest in Dentistry: LASER CARE and THE TRIAL SMILE!

Nov 30, 2006 10:41PM ● By Don Kindred
by San Clemente Journal

An Interview with Dr. Jon Marashi

Modern technology has made significant advancements in dental care, 
which translates into healthier smiles for San Clemente. 
The San Clemente Journal decided to meet up with 
Dr. Jon Marashi to find out what is new and exciting!

SCJ: Dr. Marashi, what is all the hype we are hearing about the use of lasers in dentistry?

Dr. M: Great question! For many years in dentistry we all have been accustomed to the usual scraping of our teeth and gums to remove plaque and keep our mouths clean. A non-surgical treatment called scaling and root planning, or a “deep cleaning” has been used with some success for about 50 years. 
Dental technology has finally given us improved means of non-surgical treatment. A dental laser is a device that uses focused light energy to target and evaporate the bacteria responsible for periodontal disease. This essentially sterilizes the gums, thus allowing the gum tissue to heal and decrease gum-pocketing. Also, with proper laser use during periodontal therapy there is significantly less discomfort to the patient.

SCJ: What causes gum disease?

Dr. M: Gum disease, also known as gingivitis and periodontitis, are infections caused by the build-up of plaque and bacteria. The bacteria are located deep below the gumline, where toothbrush and dental floss can’t reach. There usually isn’t any discomfort, and this destructive process can lead to receding gums, deep gum-pocketing, and even tooth loss.

SCJ: hat sounds like are great alternative to traditional gum surgery. Can a laser be used for fillings and crowns?

Dr. M: Lasers for restorative dental procedures such as fillings and crowns are limited. They can be used for small fillings, but not for crowns, bridges, and porcelain veneers. The technology is not quite there yet, but I predict it will be in the future.
SCJ: We are hearing about smile-makeovers and veneers all the time. What is this all about?

Dr. M: Veneers are a thin wafer of porcelain bonded to the teeth. When done properly, then can improve the shape and color of your teeth, creating a beautiful smile!

SCJ: You mentioned being done properly… could you elaborate on that?

Dr. M: The whole smile makeover craze has led to many teeth that are way too big and far too white. This is what I like to call “chiclets” or “horse-teeth”.

SCJ: How do you avoid making teeth look like that?

Dr. M: We have refined a technique that I call “The Trial Smile”. In it, I actually hand-sculpt the teeth myself in the patient’s mouth, so they can immediately see the result. Dentists typically outsource this responsibility to a laboratory technician- so the dentist is not the person who designs and fabricates the smile.

SCJ: Amazing! So you are really the artist in the procedure. Do you have a signature smile?
Dr. M: Absolutely not! Every smile is custom tailored to the individual’s facial characteristics, such as skin tone, lip shape, and jaw line.

SCJ: Dentistry has certainly come a long way! Thanks for sharing the information! b 

Dr. Marashi maintains private practice in San Clemente, with an emphasis on aesthetic, implant, and general dentistry. He is a clinical instructor for dental continuing education programs and a national lecturer. His articles on aesthetic technique and restoration have been published in the leading dental journals and Dr. Marashi is also a consultant to a major dental manufacturer. 493-9311 office, www.drmarashi.com
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