Dr. Funk announces the availability of In-Office crowns, formed to exact tooth dimensions in a single office visit. The new approach to tooth restoration, CEREC CAD/CAM technology, designs and mills custom ceramic restorations while the patient watches the creation of their new crown.

Patients will benefit from more efficient and more comfortable care that puts them back on track quickly.

It’s a question we are frequently asked. Why do we give out cookies to our patients? 

Actually, there are a couple of reasons. First of all we like to spoil you a bit.  Whether it’s cable TV, the kid’s pit, mini-lipsticks for last minute touch-ups, fresh cookies, or gum at the check-out desk, we figure you deserve a little pampering.

Secondly, a little chocolate can actually be good for you.  That’s because chocolate contains tannins- a compound that helps prevent cavity-causing bacteria from sticking to your teeth and gums.  When mixed with sugar, these tannins can even reduce those nasty plaque bacteria.

The trick, of course, is moderation.  There is still a lot of sugar and calories in chocolate, but a small portion, now and then, can be just what the doctor ordered… just remember to brush.

If you think your teeth could use a touch-up, come talk to us about our cosmetic services. Thanks to the wonders of modern dentistry, we can have your smile gleaming in no time.

We offer brilliant, natural-looking tooth-colored fillings, porcelain veneers to transform chipped, crooked, or damaged teeth, and safe, phenomenally effective tooth whitening.

You’ll be amazed at how refreshed you’ll look – and how rejuvenated you’ll feel – with a bright healthy new smile.

Don’t let the appearance of your teeth keep you tight-lipped. Ask us about these procedures, and find out how easy it is to have the smile of your dreams.

Now is the time that most companies start enrolling employees in their pre-tax dollars flexible spending accounts for the following calendar year.  If you or your child have been in for a consultation and have not started treatment yet, this is a great time to schedule your appointment starting after January 1, 2011 using  your flexible spending/health savings account dollars!

It’s a favorite scene in comedies, but for the more than 80 million people in America who snore – and the people around them-it’s no laughing matter.  In fact snoring can pose health risks, as the constant struggle for breath can lead to high blood pressure-which in turn can cause damage to the arteries and increase the chance of stroke.

And let’s not forget the people who live with chronic snorers.  Loss of sleep can lead to all kinds of problems that affect your quality of life- let’s face it, nobody wants to feel tired all the time. 

So why see dentist about snoring? 

Because the mouth, jaw and tongue play important roles in why we snore – and because dental treatment is less invasive than surgical or medical alternatives.

Whatever you do though, don’t ignore the problem.

The health risk from chronic snoring is real, and snoring can often be a sign of more serious health problems. If you snore or if someone close to you does, call us.  It could be your first step to restoring healthy, restful sleep.

Avoid heavy meals within 5 hours of going to bed Avoid alcohol within 3 hours of bedtime Try weight loss and muscle toning techniques Sleep on your side, not your back Raise the head of the bed Avoid smoking Ask us for more information on snoring treatments

The cavities are coming! The cavities are coming!

Paul Revere, best known for his midnight ride to warn American colonist's of approaching British troops, was a dentist.

Ok, quiz time.  Let’s see how you do on the following dental trivia questions. The answers are at the bottom of the page.

	1. If you were to take all the dental floss purchased in the U.S. each year and stretch it out in one long line, how far would it go? A. From Los Angeles to New York B. From New York to Paris C. From the earth to the moon and back, 5 times
	2. What is calculus? A. A form of gum disease B. Dental plaque that has become mineralized C. The part you hated most in high school math class
	3. Which of the following is NOT an actual ancient dental remedy? A. For a toothache, boiling earthworms in oil and dropping the oil in your ears B. Rubbing a chipmunk on your nose to relieve pain C. Tying a frog to your jaw to make loose teeth firm
	4. According to a 1994 survey, what percentage of Spokane children under the age of three, who are in community based programs, have 2 or more cavities? A. 3% B. 6.2% C. 18.5%

TRIVA ANSWERS:
1.) C. 2.) B. (“C.” is also acceptable) 3.) B. (although you never know)   4.) C.

We would like to recognize one of our most loyal and faithful patients. Richard Battin has been making the trip from Chewelah since 1962 to this practice (which was purchased by Dr. Funk).  He was the 10th established patient and we truly appreciate the relationship and loyalty over the years. Mr. Battin was a small business owner before retiring and enjoys his free time hunting.  Thank you for your years of business!