Make 2012 the year to improve your oral health

Many folks consider the beginning of a new year a time to not only reflect on the year that was, but also to set personal goals for the upcoming year. How are you planning to improve your health and happiness in 2012? Dr. Jeffrey Bond and our team recommend that you make a New Year’s resolution to benefit your oral health!

It is important that New Year’s resolutions are reasonable and attainable, and that they improve your overall quality of life—for example, did you know that flossing every day is the very best way to prevent periodontal, or gum, disease? Using a straw when drinking sugary beverages can also help prevent cavities. There are many small steps that you can take to prevent cavities, oral infections and bad breath.

Be sure to give us a call if you need a few suggestions on ways to improve your oral health, or visit this helpful article from our friends at the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). After all, we know your oral health is about more than just a beautiful smile.

 Happy New Year!

-Your friends at Smiles By Bond

Happy Holidays! From Smiles By Bond

With holiday season here, Dr. Jeffrey Bond and our staff at Smiles By Bond wanted to stop for a moment to say how thankful we are to have you in our dental family. We realize that our practice thrives because of great patients like you. 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 over the years.

We hope that this holiday season brings fond memories. Thank you for being part of our family.

Softly brushing your way to clean teeth, from Dr. Bond

Just as there are so many different types of toothbrushes to choose from, each brush also has a different type of bristle! There are generally three different types of bristles; hard, medium, and soft. Our team at Smiles by Bond always recommend that our patients, especially children and seniors, use a soft bristled toothbrush.

Using a hard and medium bristled brush can actually harm your teeth and gums by stripping the enamel from the teeth and irritating the gums so that they become red and sore, and can even cause gum recession. If you do use a hard or medium bristled brush as a personal preference, we recommend using an electric toothbrush.

Soft bristles are much gentler on your teeth and gums, and while patients of all ages are recommended to use soft bristled brushes, they are particularly great for children, seniors, patients recovering from a dental procedure, and patients wearing braces.

Soft bristles, and even extra-soft bristles are every bit as effective when it comes to cleaning your teeth; in fact, if you currently use a hard or medium bristled brush, try a soft bristled brush next time you buy a toothbrush and we bet you won’t even notice a difference!

Happy brushing!

What do you love about Smiles by Bond?

From your very first visit to Smiles by Bond our doctor and team strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. We thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: Have you been especially impressed by Dr. Bond's work? Did our team go out of their way to make your day? Are you in love with 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. Or, you can tell us by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

Thank you,
The team at Smiles by Bond

The importance of regular check-ups

If you’re brushing and flossing on a regular basis, we think that’s fantastic! But, don’t forget that it’s also important to visit Smiles by Bond every six months, in addition to brushing your teeth a couple times a day. Because your dental health is important to us, we'd like to remind you that it's time for your examination.

Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health. Dr. Jeffrey Bond 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 (or as recommended), call us to schedule an appointment. We look forward to seeing you!

Happy Thanksgiving from Smiles by Bond!

Dr. Jeffrey Bond and team would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. It's a big food holiday, so be careful what you eat! If you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we'd encourage you to post them to our Facebook page or call our office and ask how.

Gobble Gobble!

Getting married this winter? Smile bright!

It’s winter, and it’s cold. But, believe it or not, there is a growing trend of brides choosing to tie the knot in the winter wonderland. If you are gearing up for a wedding this winter, consider matching that white dress to a perfectly white smile!

At Smiles by Bond we offer in-office tooth whitening for the bride, the groom, or the entire wedding party! You get the girls together to get their nails done, and now you can get them together to get their teeth done!

In-office whitening is the quickest, most effective way to achieve whiter teeth. Because we are dental professionals, we have the expertise to use higher percentages of whitening agents than the at-home systems allow. So you can get a brighter white, usually in just one visit!

Give us a ring and let us add some extra sparkle to your “I do”!

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month!

At Smiles By Bond, our team knows the way you care for your teeth at home doesn’t just affect your oral health – it can impact your overall health as well. In recent years, researchers have found clear links between the mouth and other parts of the body, and the evidence is especially impactful for people with diabetes.

November marks Diabetes Awareness Month, and a great time to learn about how keeping your mouth healthy is vital to your overall health, too. If you are one of the nearly 26 million Americans currently living with diabetes, there is some good news: you can protect your gums and teeth from the effects of diabetes by visiting our West Seattle office for regular check-ups and cleanings. Most people should have at least two dental appointments per year, but those folks living with diabetes may require additional visits to make sure their dental health remains in top shape. Many insurance plans provide expanded benefits for diabetic patients. Dr. Jeffrey Bond and our experts can tell you how often you need to come in for your dental visits.

For more information on how we can help, please give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Happy November! From Smiles By Bond

Happy November, everybody! Believe it or not, we’re almost in full holiday mode! But before we at Smiles By Bond forget about the spooky month that was, we’d like to know how you celebrated Halloween! What did you wear? How much candy did you get? Did you have fun?

If you have any photos or videos that you would like to share with us, please send them our way or feel free to post them on our Facebook page!

We hope you all had a happy and safe Halloween! Also, what are you up to this month? Anything exciting happening in your life? If so, we’d love to hear all about it!

Lastly, have you been in for a dental checkup lately? It’s important that you visit Smiles By Bond every six months, or as recommended by Dr. Jeffrey Bond. For general information, give us a call, ask us on Facebook or ask us during your next visit!

Halloween TIPS from the American Dental Association

It’s almost that spooky time of year again! Whether you are going door-to-door trick or treating, attending a party dressed in a clever, silly or scary costume, or simply getting together with friends and family to watch scary movies, Dr. Jeffrey Bond and our team want you to keep in mind the following tips from our friends at the American Dental Association to help reduce tooth-decay.

•Eat treats with meals. Saliva production increases during meals washing out food particles and helping to neutralize cavity causing plaque acid.

•Consider chewing ADA-accepted sugarless gum after meals. Certain sugarless gums have earned the ADA Seal of Acceptance for scientifically proving that chewing the gum for 20 minutes after meals helped prevent tooth decay.

•Follow the 1-2-3s of good daily oral hygiene: Floss once a day, brush twice a day and eat three balanced meals a day.

•Visit Dr. Bond for regular checkups.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN from your friends at Smiles By Bond!

5 tips to avoid plaque

At Smiles By Bond, we know nobody likes getting plaque on their teeth. Here are five other ways you can avoid that dreaded enemy of the teeth, courtesy of WebMD.

Let’s start with 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 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, evading a trip to visit Dr. Jeffrey Bond 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 Smiles By Bond at least twice a year or as recommended, and you have a lower chance of getting cavities or losing your natural 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. You can still eat these types of fruits and veggies if you’re wearing braces, but be sure to cut them up into bite sized pieces to avoid breaking off brackets.

Finally, before you pick up that candy bar, 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, give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

It only costs $1.50 for a cavity

Vending machines are a quick way to satisfy hunger. You put in $1.50 and you get back a candy bar, bag of chips or even a soda…but that’s not all! Dr. Jeffrey Bond wants to remind you that 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, 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

If you would like more advice about how you can prevent cavities, give Smiles By Bond a call, contact us on Facebook or ask Dr. Bond during your next appointment.

October is National Dental Hygiene Month!

Did you know that October is National Dental Hygiene Month? For our staff at Smiles By Bond, that means only one thing: Reminding you that 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 West Seattle 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 American Dental Association website as well, which provides pointers on keeping your mouth clean and healthy. Lastly, has it been six months since your last visit to Smiles By Bond? If the answer is yes, we encourage you to give us a call to set up an appointment with Dr. Jeffrey Bond.

Your oral health and overall health

Don’t put off your next visit to Smiles By Bond any longer! Over the years, oral health issues have been increasingly linked to other health concerns, such as heart disease. Cardiovascular disease remains American’s number one killer, claiming more lives than any other cause of death, according to the American Heart Association. Believe it or not, an estimated 80 percent of American adults currently have some form of gum disease. Studies have shown a correlation between gum disease and heart disease, underscoring the importance of good oral health care, both at home and by visiting the dentist.

Studies are also beginning to suggest that patients, especially those with periodontal disease, are believed to have an elevated risk of heart attack and stroke. Since most patients are not regularly visiting a heart specialist, their regular visits to Smiles By Bond can help detect early warning signs of heart issues, prevent gum disease or at least catch it in its early stages.

Additionally, if it’s been more than six months since your last visit to our West Seattle office, please give us a call!

What's the deal with coffee and tea?

At Smiles By Bond, we know most folks enjoy a hot-brewed coffee or tea in the morning, followed by a cola (or more coffee) in the afternoon. But what many don’t know is that both coffee and tea are especially tough on your teeth, because tannic acid (the substance that makes the dark color) etches into the pits and grooves of tooth enamel, and can stain your pearly whites brown.

So, if you can't give up that morning cup o’joe, what can you do? Dr. Jeffrey Bond and team suggest rinsing with a glass of water after every cup. If you enjoy iced coffee or tea, drink your beverage with a straw so that tannins don’t make contact with your front upper and lower teeth. Even if you’re not a big coffee drinker, Dr. Bond encourages you to swish and swallow some water at the end of each meal. Water, after all, helps neutralize acids left in your mouth after eating and also reduces cavity-causing bacteria.

Our team at Smiles By Bond also invites you to visit our convenient Seattle, WA office for whitening options. We can help bleach your teeth with proven and professional products. To learn more about whitening options at our office, please visit our website, ask us on Facebook or give us a call!

The trouble with bottled water

Our team at Smiles By Bond know that as more families turn to bottled water and away from the traditional tap, they may be missing out on one important ingredient that most brands of bottled water fail to include: fluoride!

For more than 60 years, water fluoridation has proved to be a safe and cost-effective way to reduce dental caries. Today, water fluoridation is estimated to reduce tooth decay by 20- to 40 percent in children who have access to fluoridated toothpaste.

Bottled water, however, which remains one of the more popular drinks in the world, may not contain any fluoride, which is known to help prevent and even reverse the early stages of tooth decay. The majority of bottled waters on the market do not contain optimal levels (0.7-1.2 ppm) of fluoride, according to our friends at the American Dental Association, or ADA. Many dental health specialists suspect bottled water’s increased popularity as the culprit behind rising rates of cavities.

Because fluoride helps strengthen teeth, it is an important component of maintaining good oral health. So if bottled water is your water of choice, be sure to check the label to make sure that your brand contains fluoride. As of a 2006 decision, the Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, allows bottled water containing .6 to 1.0 milligrams per liter (parts per million) of fluoride to carry a label stating that fluoridated water may reduce the risk of dental cavities or tooth decay. The ADA has backed this decision.

Of course, simply drinking fluoridated water is not a magic ticket to perfect teeth. To keep your pearly whites in tip-top shape, it’s important to brush and floss daily and avoid sugary sweets, in addition to maintaining your fluoride intake and visiting Dr. Jeffrey Bond and our team at Smiles By Bond regularly.

Ask Dr. Bond: What, exactly, is a root canal?

At Smiles By Bond we know one thing no patient likes hearing when visiting our office is “root canal.” But what, exactly, is a root canal, and when might you need one? A root canal is a treatment Dr. Jeffrey Bond uses to repair and save a tooth that is infected or badly decayed to the point where the nerve is involved. In the past, if a patient had a tooth with a diseased nerve, dentists in most cases would recommend an extraction. Today, however, with a procedure called root canal therapy, available at our office, you may save that tooth—and your beautiful smile—after all!

Here are some symptoms that indicate a decayed or infected tooth, courtesy of WebMD:

• Severe toothache pain upon chewing, biting or application of pressure
• One tooth consistently more sensitive to hot or cold than other teeth
• Pain that hurts without any stimulus, keeps you awake or wakes you up at night
• A tooth that feels loose
• Discoloration (a darkening) of the tooth
• Pain that persists weeks following a filling or replacement of a filling
• Chronic pain and/or pressure that may extend to the ear, eye or neck

If any of these symptoms apply to you, we recommend you schedule an appointment with Dr. Bond.

The best way to avoid a root canal is to practice good oral hygiene at home, and that includes brushing at least twice a day and flossing to reduce plaque and bacteria. For more tips on how to avoid root canal therapy or for general questions about your dental treatment, we invite you to ask Dr. Bond during your next visit at our convenient West Seattle office! We also invite you to ask us on Facebook!

Emergency Care at Smiles By Bond

At Smiles By Bond we know dental emergencies are never convenient or timely. If you are a patient of record, we are committed to your dental health and are more than willing to see you.

We are here to help you, any time, any day, and when your dental health is at risk, we’ll do everything we can to make sure that you’re treated as soon as possible. While dental emergencies are rare, we know they can happen at any moment, and it’s important to know how to take care of your teeth no matter what.

Common dental emergencies include:

• A bitten lip or tongue
• Broken or cracked tooth/teeth
• Broken jaw
• Permanent tooth that has been knocked out
• Object caught between teeth
• Severe toothache

If you have a dental emergency after regular office hours, please give us a call. If you are calling us after hours, please follow the emergency prompts to contact Dr. Jeffrey Bond. We proudly serve patients from West Seattle, among other surrounding communities.

We hope you’re having a great day!

Who's afraid of the dentist?

Does the sound of a drill make you flinch or cringe? Do you worry about your twice-yearly dental checkup? Trust Dr. Jeffrey Bond and our team at Smiles By Bond when we say you’re not alone! In fact, the Journal of the American Dental Association has estimated that 30 to 40 million people have a fear of visiting the dentist.

To eliminate some of that fear, we’ve put together six steps to help you or your child overcome your dental anxiety before visiting Dr. Bond’s office.

1. What are you most afraid of? Is it the sound of the drill? Do you have needle phobia? Have you been traumatized by previous dental visits? Write down your fears, one by one.

2. Don’t wait. The more frequently you visit our office, the less work needs to be done at any one visit. Simply having your teeth cleaned professionally by Dr. Bond twice a year—or as recommended—prevents many, if not most, problems.

3. Bring a distraction to your appointment. Bringing along an iPod is a great idea. Just plug in those earphones, close your eyes, and get lost in the music. Listening to music can also be a pain killer.

4. Relax. Inhale slowly, and count of five. Hold your breath for 10 seconds, then exhale slowly to the count of eight. Repeat. Concentrate on making out every word of the lyrics. It's easier if you're not totally focused on the work going on inside your mouth.

5. Ask. Before any procedure, ask Dr. Bond or one of our assistants why we’re using the tools we’re using. Ask us what we're doing, what the tool is used for, and how it will benefit you during the appointment. Also, please ask about anti-anxiety medications that we may prescribe to help you relax during your appointment

6. We are here to help you. Remember, we are health care professionals who want to improve your oral health, and will never judge you or the state of your mouth. Dr. Bond and team will do all we can to ensure a trauma-free and pain-free experience!

We hope this helps! For more on dental anxieties, we encourage you to visit this helpful article or ask us during your next visit to our convenient West Seattle office! Or, ask us on Facebook!

What's so bad about nail biting?

We’ve all heard that biting your nails is an awful habit, but you many wonder- really- what’s so bad about it? Recently, our team at Smiles By Bond found an interesting article that discusses how biting your nails affect your teeth and oral health.

Nail biting, also known as Onychophagia, is a common habit among various age groups, including primarily children, teens and young adults. Nail biting is generally triggered by stress and most often decreases with age. That being said, nail biting is unsanitary, unattractive, as well as unhealthy for your teeth!

Here’s why:

• 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 for them. 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.

• Braces don’t love it either. Braces already put pressure on teeth, nail biting ads unnecessary pressure, further stressing your teeth and weakening their roots.

• 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!

What can you do about it?

Now that you know how harmful nail biting can be, it’s time to take action to break your nail biting habit. Try to be conscious of your fingernails and to keep them looking good- this will help you resist the temptation. Ask Dr. Jeffrey Bond or visit the article for tips on how to break a nail biting habit.

Good luck!

Your friends at Smiles By Bond

Is my child using the right toothbrush?

Dr. Jeffrey Bond will tell you that brushing your teeth is one of the easiest methods of cavity prevention. But 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 can 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 and we'll try to answer any question you may have about keeping your child's mouth as healthy as possible!

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

The world around us is always changing and evolving, whether it’s the latest gadget you ordered online or the high-tech braces on your teeth! Recently, we 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. Jeffrey Bond to discuss your implant options.

-Dr. Bond and team

What do you love about Smiles By Bond?

From your very first visit to Smiles By Bond Dr. Jeffrey Bond and his team strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. We thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: Have you been especially impressed by Dr. Bond's work? Did our team go out of their way to make your day? Are you in love with 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. Or, you can tell us by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

Thank you,

The team at Smiles By Bond

Who are the teeth grinders in your house?

Grind, grind, grind. If you live with a teeth grinder, you may be familiar with this unpleasant sound, especially recently. A recent study published in the journal Head & Face Medicine suggests that people—adults and kids—faced with stress tend to cope by grinding their teeth. In addition, the Chicago Dental Society suggests that since the recession began in 2007, teeth grinding, or bruxism, has been on the rise.

The Chicago Dental Society surveyed more than 250 members about the connection between stress and oral health. Nearly 75 percent of dentists said their patients reported increased stress over the past year, largely due to the economic recession. During stressful times, teeth grinding can be a nuisance that causes headaches and sleep problems, but it also can cause lasting problems for your teeth and gums, including chipped teeth, worn enamel, chronic pain, or even TMJ, a painful jaw disorder.

The first step of recovering from teeth grinding is noticing the problem, says Dr. Jeffrey Bond. Symptoms of teeth grinding include:

• Sensitivity in the teeth
• Tightness or pain in the jaw
• Dull headaches, earaches, or facial pain
• Chipped, worn down, or loose teeth

An important thing to remember is that people frequently grind their teeth in response to stress, and taking measures to reduce or eliminate stress can help solve the problem. If the teeth-grinder in your house can’t stop, schedule an appointment to see us by giving us a call. Dr. Bond and our team at Smiles By Bond can help determine the cause of the problem.

The importance of mouth guards, from Smiles By Bond

Summer is here, and our team at Smiles By Bond understands the importance of being outside. The kids are out of school and outdoor activities are a weekly occurrence. Therefore, Dr. Jeffrey Bond and his team would like to remind you about the importance mouth guards, as well as what they are and when to use them. If you have any additional questions, give us a call at Smiles By Bond. We'd love to hear from you!

Q: What are athletic mouth protectors?

A: Athletic mouth protectors, or mouth guards, are made of soft plastic. They are adapted to fit comfortably to the shape of the upper teeth.

Q: Why are mouth guards important?

A: Mouth guards hold top priority as sports equipment. They protect the teeth, as well as the lips, cheeks, and tongue. They also help protect children from head and neck injuries, such as concussions and jaw fractures. Increasingly, organized sports are requiring mouth guards to prevent injury to their athletes. Research shows that most oral injuries occur when athletes are not wearing mouth protection.

Q: When should my child wear a mouth guard?

A: Whenever he or she is in an activity that has a risk of falling or of head contact with other players or equipment. This includes football, baseball, basketball, soccer, hockey, skateboarding, even gymnastics. We usually think of football and hockey as the most dangerous to the teeth, but nearly half of sports-related mouth injuries occur in basketball and baseball.

Q: How do I choose a mouth guard for my child?

A: Any mouth guard works better than no mouth guard. Choose a mouth guard that your child can wear comfortably. If a mouth guard feels bulky or interferes with speech, it should be left in the locker room.

There are several options of mouth guards. First, preformed or "boil-to-fit" mouth guards are found in most sports stores. Different types and brands vary in terms of comfort, protection, and cost. Second, customized mouth guards are provided through your dentist. They cost a bit more, but are more comfortable and more effective in preventing injuries. Dr. Bond can advise you on what type of mouth guard is best for your child.

What are you reading this summer?

With summer in full swing, all of us at Smiles by Bond wanted to remind our patients about the importance of reading. Sure it’s easy to keep putting off reading this time of year, but reading during the summer is a vital step in brain development and warding off the dreaded “summer slide.” Plus, it's fun!

Today, we thought we’d ask: What's on YOUR summer reading list? What are some of your all-time favorites? Out of ideas for great summer reads? Ask us for suggestions, and our staff (and Dr. Bond) would be happy to provide a few suggestions. You may also ask a local librarian for some ideas or check out these summer reading ideas that we came across today, courtesy of Barnes & Noble.

Happy reading! Be sure to share with us your summer picks or your all-time favorites on our Facebook page!

Smiles By Bond Asks: What are you up to this 4th of July?

This coming Monday, July 4th, is Independence Day and the United States of America will be turning 235 years old! It’s a day to commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence and also a time for every American to pay homage to our soldiers, past and present, who have placed themselves in harm’s way so that we may continue to enjoy our freedom.

Dr. Bond and team will be celebrating this Monday and we would like to know, what are your plans for the 4th of July? Will you be out in the sun? Have you stocked up on fireworks? Are you going to grill up your favorite summer foods? Are you staying in town or heading somewhere else? If you have a 4th of July tradition, we would love to hear about it.

Whatever you plan to do, Smiles By Bond hopes you have a fun and safe holiday! Feel free to upload your 4th of July photos to our Facebook page and let us know how your Independence Day turned out this year.

Schedule those summer checkups!

If you’re brushing and flossing on a regular basis, we think that’s fantastic! But, don’t forget that it’s also important to visit Smiles By Bond every six months, in addition to brushing your teeth a couple times a day. Because your dental health is important to us, we'd like to remind you that it's time for your examination.

Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health. Dr. Bond 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 (or as recommended), call us to schedule an appointment. We look forward to seeing you!

What do you LOVE about Seattle?

Dr. Bond, your West Seattle dentist, is situated around some pretty unique neighborhoods. Each is special with its own personality, created by the people and places (and our amazing patients) living within.

Today, Dr. Bond and our team thought we'd ask: What are your favorite things about Seattle? Is there a local event you attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery? Perhaps a favorite getaway in Washington?

Please feel free to share some information about your favorite local hang-outs in West Seattle, and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods” in Washington.

If you need to schedule your next appointment, give us a call! Have a great week!

June is National Smile Month!

According to the American Dental Association, a person's smile outranked eyes, hair and body as the most important physical feature, which is why it's important for our team at Smiles By Bond to support National Smile Month this June.

Show off your pearly whites by posting your favorite smile photos on the wall of our Facebook page. We look forward to seeing what you share!

Smiles by Bond, easing your fears of the dentist

Dr. Bond and team understand not everyone is thrilled to see the dentist. But we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We’d like to know: What is it about Smiles by Bond that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff or Dr. Bond?

Let us know by posting here or by giving us a call!

Smiles By Bond, wishing you a safe and relaxing Memorial Day weekend

Memorial Day weekend, a time to remember and honor the men and women lost while serving for our country. Memorial Day is also the unofficial start of summer, and for many folks in West Seattle, getting out of town for three days after being cooped up in the classroom or the office spells sweet, sweet relief.

What about you? What are you up to this Memorial Day weekend? Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, or just hitting the great American open roads, we’d like to hear all about it!

Our entire team at Smiles By Bond wishes you a happy, safe and relaxing Memorial Day weekend!

Why do you choose Smiles by Bond?

Smiles by Bond, serving the West Seattle area, strives to provide exceptional treatment in an informative and friendly environment. Have you had a great experience at our office?

Share your story with the world!



Just select the "Write a Review" button above to write a review on our Google Place Page. We look forward to receiving your feedback!

Thank you,

The team at Smiles by Bond

What’s on your reading list?

With the school year close to winding down for a lot of our patients at Smiles By Bond, we wanted to remind all our patients about the importance of reading. Sure it’s easy to keep putting off reading this time of year, but reading is a vital step in brain development and literacy. And if you needed any more reason to read, May marks “Get Caught Reading Month.”

Today, we thought we’d ask: What's on YOUR reading list? What are some of your all-time favorites? Out of ideas for great reads? Ask us for suggestions, and Dr. Bond and our team would be happy to provide a few. You may also ask a local librarian for some ideas on what to read next!

Happy reading! Be sure to share with us your book picks or your all-time favorite novels or literature on our Facebook page!

What, exactly, are wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth are a type of molar that is found in the very back of your mouth and are the last molars to develop. There are four wisdom teeth: upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right. These teeth usually appear in late teens or early twenties but may become impacted (fail to erupt) due to lack of room in the jaw or angle of entry. The removal of wisdom teeth has become so commonplace that it is almost a rite of passage for young adults.

Dr. Bond will tell you that 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.

In addition to visiting our website with any questions you may have about wisdom teeth, our friends at WebMD have developed a helpful explanation about wisdom teeth and how they impact your health. Also, feel free to give us a call with any questions you have or ask us on Facebook!

Smile, and you might just live longer!

Folks with big smiles may actually live longer than those who don’t, according to a March 2010 study at Michigan’s Wayne State University. Dr. Bond has known for quite some time that positive emotion has been linked to both physical and mental health, but researchers at the university did something quite interesting: they looked at photos of 230 ball-players who began their careers in baseball prior to 1950 and studied their smile intensity (ranging from 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 took into account other factors that impact life longevity, including body mass index, career length and even college attendance.

The results? Researchers found that players who weren't smiling in the photos 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! Have you been perfecting your smile by visiting Smiles By Bond on a regular basis? If not, give us a call!

Today marks the 41st anniversary of Earth Day

Whether lending your helping hand to plant trees or grasses or getting out volunteering in various projects in the West Seattle area, today was our opportunity to get involved in making our year-round impact in the community. Smiles by Bond wants to know: Did you make a difference today? Tell us, what Earth Day-related activities did you accomplish? How long have you participated in helping our community and planet?

At Smiles by Bond, we support Earth Day, which marks its 41th anniversary today and is designed to inspire awareness and appreciation for our environment and ecosystem. If you’d like to join the millions of people around the world who are making small but important changes to help sustain our ecosystem, try these helpful environmental tips, courtesy of the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Enjoy!

$1.50 for a Cavity

Vending machines are a quick way to satisfy hunger. You put in $1.50 and you get back a candy bar, bag of chips or even a soda…but that’s not all! Dr. Bond wants to remind that 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, 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

If you would like more advice about how you can prevent cavities, give Smiles By Bond a call or ask Dr. Bond during your next appointment.

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

Visiting Smiles By Bond regularly will not only help keep your teeth and mouth healthy, but will also help keep the rest of your body healthy. The fact is, every hour of every day in the U.S., someone dies of oral cancer, which is the sixth-most common diagnosed form of the 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. Since April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Bond would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our patients about the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene.

As a dentist, Dr. Bond is specifically trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health problems. Please let us now if you have any questions about your oral health during your next appointment. Take care of your teeth!

Dr. Bond asks: How important is your smile?

At Smiles by Bond, we provide our patients with a genuine dental experience focused on preserving your health and improving the way you feel!

And speaking of smiling, 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.

Please give us a call to schedule a general or cosmetic dentistry appointment with Dr. Bond in West Seattle. We look forward to working with you, and all of the healthy, bright smiles we have yet to share.

Are you ready for a total smile makeover with Dr. Bond?

Dr. Bond knows that your smile is one of the most important, and most noticed, aspects of your appearance. There is no need to suffer from missing, chipped, discolored, or crooked teeth, when our dental practice can use cutting-edge treatments to give you the smile you've always wanted. Today, we ask, are you ready for your Total Smile Makeover? Before you answer, ask yourself the following questions:

•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?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, schedule an appointment today for your cosmetic dentistry consultation with Dr. Bond. We enjoy changing people’s lives by helping them create the smile of their dreams.

New patient offers with Dr. Jeffrey Bond!

At Smiles by Bond, we strive to provide exceptional cosmetic, implant, and general dentistry in a welcoming, friendly atmosphere. To welcome new patients, Dr. Bond has a very special new patient offer.

Simply visit the new patient page of our website, and print out our new patient coupon. New patients can receive either a Sonicare toothbrush ($75.00 value), or a teeth whitening take home tray kit ($150.00 value). Both of these offers are valid after completion of your initial evaluation, necessary x-rays and teeth cleaning.

This is our way of saying thanks for choosing our office and becoming a new patient!

Flossing 101 with Dr. Jeffrey Bond

We hope your family is not a part of the 51 percent of Americans who don’t floss every day. And we definitely hope you're not part of the 10 percent who never floss at all. Dr. Bond and our staff at Smiles by Bond will always tell you that proper flossing is just as important for your dental health as brushing regularly. Flossing, you see, 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 each day is recommended, but even 60 seconds 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 checkup with Dr. Bond? If the answer is yes, we encourage you to schedule an appointment!

How to Freshen Bad Breath

Dr. Bond, your West Seattle dentist, recognizes that many of our patients are concerned about bad breath, or halitosis. While some cases of bad breath are persistent (chronic bad breath), generally bad breath is transient, and can be prevented.

We recently came across this helpful video about bad breath and thought it was worth sharing with our patients. The video explains what might cause bad breath and some ways that it can be avoided. In most instances, bad breath can be prevented by practicing common oral hygiene techniques that you have probably heard us emphasize during a visit to Smiles By Bond, such as brushing and flossing daily. We encourage you to watch this video for additional tips on how to keep bad breath at bay. Enjoy!

Preparing for Cold and Flu Season, from Smiles by Bond

It’s that time of year to start thinking about protecting yourself and your family from the flu. Here are some simple steps you can take to help yourself avoid colds and the flu this season.

• 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 toothbrush after every cold or flu or every 3-4 months when bristles appear worn
To promote a healthy and clean environment, Dr. Jeffrey Bond and our team give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our office at all times, as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces.

For the protection of other patients and our staff, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

Hope this helps and give us a call if you have any questions! Stay healthy!

What helps you relax at Smiles by Bond?

Our team at Smiles by Bond knows that not everyone is thrilled to see the dentist. But we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We’d like to know: What is it about Smiles by Bond that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff or Dr. Bond?

We would love to hear your story here, or on our Facebook page!

February is American Heart Month

Did you know February is American Heart Month? It’s a great time to take notice of the health of your heart, says Dr. Bond. Cardiovascular disease remains American's number one killer, according to 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 on a regular basis 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 their dentist when they should, a healthy mouth begins with a visit to Smiles by Bond. In observance of Heart Month, Dr. Bond 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 at Smiles by Bond, please give us a call today.

Smiles by Bond supports National Children’s Dental Health Month

With February being National Children's Dental Health Month, our team at Smiles By Bond thought we'd share a few good oral hygiene tips with our patients, courtesy of the American Dental Association, or ADA.

• Teeth brushing techniques: It takes only two minutes to properly brush, using short, gentle strokes and devoting extra attention to the gumline, areas around fillings and hard-to-reach areas such as the back teeth.
• Flossing: hold the floss snugly between thumbs and index finger and place between each of the teeth, making sure to go beneath the gumline and curving the floss around the base of each tooth.
• Snack wisely: choose healthy snacks such as vegetables, fruits and cheese and avoid sticky, chewy candies that can stick to the teeth. If you eat these snacks, make sure to brush after doing so.
• Carbonated or sugary drinks: these beverages create acids that can damage the teeth when mixed with saliva, so they should be avoided altogether. When drinking one of these beverages, avoid sipping on it throughout the day. Rather, have a drink and then brush your teeth.
• Regular dental visits: You should visit us regularly (approximately every six months).

National Children's Dental Health Month, now in its 61st year, aims to increase awareness about the importance of kids' oral health. If you have any questions about keeping your mouth healthy, or about your treatment with Smiles By Bond, please feel free to give us a call!

Professional Teeth Whitening with Zoom!®

Everybody loves a bright sparkling smile, and with teeth whitening you can improve the look of your smile. Our practice offers in office Zoom!® Smile Whitening and take home trays for just $450. Thanks to Zoom!®, you can achieve your optimal brightest shade, in less time!

While Zoom!® Smile Whitening is a great way to enhance the appearance of your smile, it's not always for everyone. Those with deep, dark stains that remain unaffected by whitening treatments and patients with regular tooth sensitivity may not be good candidates. Find out more about Teeth Whitening at our website; and when you are ready to have a whiter, brighter smile contact Dr. Bond!

Dr. Bond debunks the rumors about swallowed gum

At Smiles By Bond we know 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!

Safety first this winter! From Dr. Bond & Team

Winter is officially here, and with it comes not only the holiday season, but also sometimes unpredictable and inclement weather. This week, our team would like to share a few winter safety tips that we found on the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry website. These tips include everything from what to wear outdoors to tips for winter snow sports. Enjoy!

• Older babies and young children should generally be dressed in one more layer of clothing than an adult would wear in the same conditions

• Several thin clothing layers will keep an infant or child dry and warm. Warm boots, gloves, mittens, and a hat are necessities!

• A cold air humidifier, saline nose drops, and petrolatum will help a child that suffers from winter nosebleeds.

• It is important for children to wash their hands frequently, and to use the bend of their elbow if they need to sneeze or cough to prevent the spread of colds and flu.

• Never ski or snowboard alone. Adults should supervise young children participating in winter sports.

• When sledding, it is preferable to separate young children from older children, and to avoid crowded areas.

• The AAP recommends that children under age 16 not operate snowmobiles and that children under age 6 never ride on snowmobiles.

We hope that these tips help keep you and your loved ones stay safe and sound this winter season. Please give us a call if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your next appointment at Smiles by Bond.

The importance of regular checkups

If you’re brushing and flossing on a regular basis, we think that’s fantastic! But, don’t forget that it’s also important to visit Smiles by Bond every six months, in addition to brushing your teeth a couple times a day. Because your dental health is important to us, we'd like to remind you that it's time for your examination.

Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health. Dr. Bond 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 (or as recommended), call us to schedule an appointment. We look forward to seeing you!