Blog

Is it time to schedule your dental cleaning appointment?

We know you’re busy, and on your list of priorities, your teeth might be pretty low. But they shouldn’t be! Your teeth and mouth have a direct impact on your oral health. That means if you have poor oral health, you could also have chronic inflammation in other areas of…

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Oral Health-Related Christmas Gift Ideas

The holidays are right around the corner, and like many people, you might be wondering what to get your family and friends for Christmas. This year, give the gift of oral health. At North Salinas Dental, Dr. Russell Cureton and his caring team are here to help you stay on…

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What Are the Worst Candies for Your Teeth During the Holidays

While the holidays are still a bit of a ways away, many of us in the dental field are still addressing some of the oral health issues from the holiday season last year. That is because, for many reasons, people tend to not take as good care of their teeth…

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5 Benefits of Having a Beautiful Smile

Our teeth are important. Really important. They allow us to speak and chew. But, more than that, our teeth allow us to share our beautiful smiles with the world. Unfortunately, an unhealthy or lackluster smile can make sharing our smiles more difficult (and embarrassing!). Don’t let a dull smile hold…

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Tiny Guide to Creating the BEST Flossing Habit

Every dentist, every dental hygienist, and every dental scientist, will tell you how important it is to floss. As a North Salinas dentist, Dr. Cureton recommends all of his patients floss once a day. But while most of us remember to brush our teeth morning and night, only a small…

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Why Us: About Russell Cureton D.D.S.

Choosing the right dentist is a crucial part of taking care of yourself because your oral health affects your overall well-being. Part of achieving and maintaining good oral health is visiting the dentist at least every six months, so it is important to have a dental care team who makes…

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4 Tips for Finding a New Dentist

A trip to the dentist isn’t just about having a professional brush your teeth. Oral health care is a critical part of keeping your body safe and healthy so you can continue to do the things you love every day. With that in mind, choosing a dentist is an important…

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5 Myths About Gingivitis

You may have heard of gingivitis, but do you know what causes it? Gingivitis is a mild form of gum (periodontal) disease caused by bacterial (plaque and tartar) build-up on and in between the teeth and gums. When periodontal-disease causes bacteria overgrows in the mouth, this harmful bacteria attacks dental…

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5 Ways to Improve Your Smile Before Christmas

This time of year brings us closer together, and being closer together means that we want to look and feel our best. Having a picture-perfect smile is one way to look your best. But what if you’re worried that your smile won’t win you a kiss under the mistletoe? Don’t…

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Invisalign vs. Braces: Which is better?

Your smile is one of the first things people notice and remember about you. According to a publication published by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, nearly half the people surveyed consider smiles as the most memorable feature. Are you afraid that crooked or crowded teeth might be the only…

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6 Tips for Recovery After Oral Surgery

Oral surgery is a tough, but often necessary decision. Many patients are concerned about what their quality of life will be like after oral surgery and how long the recovery process will take from beginning to end.   Manage Expectations It’s no secret that your brain is one of the most…

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The Effects of Periodontal Disease on Men and Women

When we think about oral health, our teeth are the first things that come to mind. For some people, teeth may be the only things that come to mind! But, if you think about it a little longer, you’ll begin to realize there is so much more to your mouth—the…

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3 Tips for a Healthier Smile

A beautiful smile is a healthy smile. Our three simple tips for gaining and maintaining a healthy oral microbiome include: (1) an effective at-home oral hygiene routine, (2) a healthy diet, and (3) visiting your dentist regularly. Continue reading to learn more.  Protect Your Teeth Your pearly whites are tough,…

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5 Treatments for a Cracked Tooth

Throughout life, things will happen to your teeth. The important thing is to address any problem with your teeth immediately to maintain your beautiful smile. Read more to learn about how we can help repair your cracked tooth in our Salinas office: Dental Crowns A cost-effective, protective cap that covers…

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Are there foods that can whiten your teeth?

Some people with stained teeth dish out hundreds of dollars on DIY teeth whitening kits or trays to achieve whiter-looking teeth. However, this can get pricey and with the number of products on the market, results are bound to be varied. Luckily, Dr. Cureton and our team in Salinas are…

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Importance of Bi-Annual Cleanings

It can be easy to skip out on a dental cleaning when you don’t have any specific aches or pains to deal with. But as you’ll read here, routine dental cleanings are the key to a healthy, happy mouth. If you want to maintain your beaming smile, coming in for…

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Stages of Gum Disease | Learn How to Prevent & Treat Periodontal Disease – Russell Cureton, DDS

Periodontal disease is an oral infection characterized by red, swollen, tender gums. According to the CDC, nearly half of all Americans aged 30 or older have some form of gum disease. Left untreated, this condition can result in a myriad of oral health problems, including bad breath, mobility, and even…

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What does a smile makeover cost?

Aesthetic imperfections such as chips, cracks, or gaps can have a negative impact on your confidence. A smile makeover combines multiple cosmetic procedures into one comprehensive treatment. Dr. Cureton tailors every smile makeover to the specific needs of the patient. Whether you need a couple of procedures or several, we…

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How to Know if Your Dental Work Needs Replacement

It’s a simple fact of life that things breaks down, and dental work is no different. Despite our best efforts and utmost care, occasionally something may happen to our dental work.  At Dr. Cureton’s practice, we want you to be well-informed about your oral health. Let’s dive into what you…

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4 Tips for Your Oral Health in 2021

Is good oral health one of your New Year’s resolutions? Check out this blog to learn how to gain and maintain a healthy smile for years to come. A new year, for many people, feels like a clean slate or a second chance to be better than they were before….

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Traditional vs Same-Day Dental Crowns

There are many different types of dental crowns available to restore decayed or damaged teeth. While traditional crowns are fabricated in a lab, same-day crowns are made chairside while you wait. What are the pros and cons of these restorations? How do CEREC® one-visit crowns compare to their conventional counterparts?…

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5 Questions to Ask Before a Dental Procedure

Before committing to a dental procedure, make sure you choose a dentist you can trust. Learn more about your dentist by asking these five questions. Are you experiencing dental pain? Do you want to improve the appearance of your teeth? Does one of your dental crowns or fillings need to…

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8 Questions to Ask Your Dentist About Invisalign ®

Do you have questions about Invisalign clear, removable orthodontic aligners? We have answers! Check out these FAQs about Invisalign. A straight, beautiful smile can be life changing. Straight teeth boost confidence, give a good first impression, and make people seem more successful, smart, and wealthy. Thankfully, achieving a beautiful smile…

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How Long Does Swelling Last After Wisdom Tooth Removal?

Wisdom teeth no longer play a role in your bite, and should almost always be removed. But many patients dread this. Even though there is a risk for tooth decay, crooked teeth, jaw pain, and more from an impacted tooth, many patients wait until the very last moment because of…

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Does your dentist offer THIS?

Is a damaged tooth impairing your ability to chew? Has it negatively impacted your self-esteem? To restore function, appearance, and health, we offer CEREC® single-visit dental crowns. Unlike traditional dental crowns, CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramic) makes it possible to restore a tooth in the same amount of…

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The Top 9 Qualities to Look for in Your New Dentist

It is easy to find a new dentist. But finding the right dentist for you and your family can be hard. How do you know which qualities to look for in your new dentist? Do you choose the one closest to you? Or someone whose name you saw on a…

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before and after smile

7 Questions to Ask Your Dentist About Cosmetic Dentistry

Looking to improve your smile in 2020? Begin your search by typing “best cosmetic dentist” before choosing the one who’s right for you. During those visits, ask the right questions to learn about the dentist’s qualifications and experience and which treatments may help you reach your smile goals. To schedule…

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Benefits of Same Day Crowns

–Dr. Cureton Dental crowns are one of the most versatile, important procedures that we offer here at our Salinas dental office. They have both cosmetic and functional benefits, capable of repairing a smile while also protecting the teeth. Crowns have traditionally been the procedure of choice for dentists looking to…

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Myths About Candy from Halloween

It’s that time of year again – a time when children everywhere dress up in terrifying costumes as ghosts, witches, and dentists in order to horde candy from their neighbors. Halloween is fun for everyone – especially the kids that know where the “good houses” are. As a dentist in…

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The 5 Top Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry

When looking at pictures of yourself, do you stare at your teeth wishing they were different? Do you smile with your mouth closed to cover up stained, gapped, chipped, or misshapen teeth? In a world with social media and selfies, having a bright, beautiful smile has become increasingly popular. Thankfully,…

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Older, seniors smiling

Best Dentist for Seniors in Salinas, CA

Throughout most of our adult lives, proper dental hygiene – combined with regular visits to the dentist – can often be enough to help you manage your smile. You may have a few fillings – even the rare root canal – but if you’ve cared for your teeth successfully and…

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What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a common and extensive procedure that protects a damaged tooth. If your tooth is broken, cracked, or suffering from a large cavity, a crown may be the best option for you. Your dentist may also recommend a crown if you have a small to a moderately sized cavity…

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What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a great way to restore your smile. They can either blend in with your existing teeth, or they can be implanted to give your dentures something to adhere to. Either way, getting dental implants is a simple procedure that can permanently fix your grin. How Do Dental…

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How long does invisalign work?

Braces have been a part of most people’s lives, especially as a kid. They were clunky and sometimes embarrassing. Throughout the years the process for braces has evolved to become almost invisible. Invisalign has been on the market since the early 2000’s and has most people throwing out their regular…

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How Invisalign Works

Invisalign has helped many people to have a straighter smile and feel more confident about themselves. That is a powerful thing to offer someone and many people are lining up to get straighter teeth. However, many people feelconcerned because they don’t know what the process entails. In this article, you…

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Can You Use Invisalign With Missing Teeth

Invisalign has been helping many people to feel their best about their smiles. It also helps them not to feel self-conscious; like so many do when they wear regular braces. Like most people, you probably want to know if you can use Invisalign even if you have missing teeth. In this post,…

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What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a prosthetic tooth that’s used to fill the gap left by a missing tooth. It is made up of a false tooth permanently fixed to the real tooth (or teeth) next to it. Bridges serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. Filling in a tooth gap is…

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Need dental implants? Make sure you find the right dentist

If you’re missing teeth, dental implants are an investment in your smile’s future. But as a complex procedure, and an alternative to bridges and dentures that should last you a lifetime, that makes investing in the right dentist all the more important. Look at your dentist’s training and experience First…

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Blog IN SALINAS

Building a foundation of trust by treating our patients as special individuals is vital to our success. We understand how uneasy some patients may feel about their dental visits, and how we can make a difference in providing a relaxing and positive experience. Dr. Russell Cureton and his entire team are dedicated to providing you with excellent, personalized care and service to make your visits to our Salinas family dental office as comfortable and pleasant as possible.