Dear Friends,

As another year draws to a close, Dr. Rai and his team would like to thank you for your continued support and for making Santa Barbara Dental Spa your destination for cosmetic dentistry including white fillings, veneers, Zoom whitening, Implants, dental hygiene and much more.  We are proud to be able to provide Santa Barbara dental patients with stress free dental care in relaxing spa surroundings.

It is December and that means it’s the time of year when we remind patients about the benefits ofusing their dental insurance before the end of the year.

Businesses provide this type of insurance to help with dental treatment costs, but most of these policies have a use-it-or-it-lose-it clause where benefits are only available for a calendar year, and do not carry over into the next. To us, that feels a little bit like leaving money on the table. If you are entitled to benefits which could reduce your out-of-pockets costs for dental care, why wouldn’t you want to take advantage of them?

The holidays can take an unfortunate toll on our oral health. Now, more than any other time of year, people tend to struggle with the temptation to overindulge on cookies, cakes and other holiday treats.  The many social obligations are also likely to have us out of our regular routines; it’s a safe to assume that oral hygiene is not on the top of most people’s list of priorities. Don’t be discouraged, just resolve to make 2016 the year that you take charge of your oral health!

Resolutions For a Healthy Smile

Brush: Set a schedule to ensure that you brush at least twice a day.  You should be brushing  your teeth first thing in the morning and before going to bed at night.  It is also recommended that you brush after snacks when possible. If you consume any highly acidic foods or drinks, wait 30 minutes before brushing. Be sure to practice proper brushing techniques and try to spend between 2 and 3 minutes brushing.

Floss: Everyone should be flossing at least once a day to remove plaque that brushing alone can’t target. Ask your hygienist to demonstrate the correct flossing technique. Flossing in conjunction with brushing is the best way to ensure proper dental cleaning and helps to combat plaque buildup, periodontal disease and dental caries.

Quit smoking: If you smoke or use any tobacco products you should take immediate steps towards quitting.  Smoking not only ruins the aesthetics of your smile, but is also detrimental to your oral and overall health.

Diet: The foods and beverages that you consume have a direct impact on your oral health.  Avoid refined and starchy carbohydrates and sugar laden drinks and snacks.  Instead try to include high fiber fruits and veggies along with calcium rich dairy products. If you must indulge in sugary drinks, use a straw to keep the liquid away from your teeth as much as possible.

Equipment: Use toothpaste containing fluoride and be sure to have dental floss on hand.  The type of floss to purchase is a matter of personal preference; the best type of floss is one that you will actually use! Check the bristles of your toothbrush for signs of damage; even if no wear is evident, it is recommended that you replace your brush every 3 months.

Visit your Dentist:  Arrange (and keep) regularly scheduled visits with your dentist. General guidelines dictate that you see your dentist every 6 months, although your dentist may recommend more or less frequently based on your individual dental needs. Putting this off could allow what may have been a small issue to turn into a big problem.

Our sincerest wishes for a safe and happy holidays to you all and we look forward to seeing you in the new year.

Santa Barbara Dental Q&A

Q: Do you offer any loyalty reward incentives?

A: As a thank you to our loyal clients, we have implemented a referral rewards program this year. Upon completion of their initial patient visit, you and a referred client will both receive $100 to put towards future visits at Santa Barbara Dental Spa.

Q: Do you need any specific information for new patients?

A:  Prior to arrival, please complete our patient forms and bring them with you for your initial visit.

Q: Is Santa Barbara Dental Spa involved with any local charities?

A: Dr. Rai was honored this year to be able to contribute to the Give Back a Smile Program. Assisting victims of domestic abuse in regaining their dignity, hope and self confidence was a rewarding and humbling experience.

Santa Barbara Holiday Events

Nightly Snowfall – The entire family will enjoy the nightly snowfall at Paseo Nuevo! Share some holiday magic daily at Center Court, final show will be Christmas Eve at 5 & 6 pm.

Christmas Dinner at OSK – The Organic Soup Kitchen is hosting an authentic Italian dinner on Christmas day.  From noon until 3pm. A special holiday guest will be in attendance!

Let It Snow!  – Experience holiday magic at the Paseo Nuevo nightly snowfall. This free show runs at Center Court Monday-Friday at 7&8 pm and Sundays at 5&6 pm.

Coming in December – 30th Annual Santa Barbara Parade of Lights: “A Red, White & Blue Holiday” in tribute to our local veterans. The event starts with fun for the entire family at Santa’s Village on the City Pier in Santa Barbara Harbor. The annual boat parade begins at 5:30 p.m. with about 25 boats motoring, sailing, and paddling the Santa Barbara Coastline. The event culminates with a 5-7 minute fireworks display at approximately 7 p.m.

Sammy’s wine tours are the perfect choice for a great wine tasting trip this Thanksgiving.  Santa Barbara and Santa Ynez are home to some of the best wineries in California.

Blush Christmas Dinner Downtown: This year why not try something different and have a Blush Christmas Dinner?  Blush is a cozy restaurant and lounge that will be open on Christmas from noon until 10:00 p.m. You and your guests can sit back and relax while their chefs do all the cooking.

Max’s Restaurant: Treat your Holiday guests to the best breakfast in town! For over 30 years, Max’s Restaurant, located at 3514 State Street, Santa Barbara, in the Upper State St. area, has earned a reputation for the best breakfast in town.

Happy Holidays!

Santa Barbara Dental Spa

About Santa Barbara Dental Spa: Dr. B.K. Rai  is the founder of the Santa Barbara Dental Spa, located at 2017 Chapala Street A. The Spa provides patients with cosmetic dental care and restored smiles in a soothing, relaxed spa environment. Services available from the relaxation dentist include teeth whitening, lumineers, root canal therapy and dental implants, as well as crowns and bridges. Visit the website at http://www.sbdentalspa.com to ask a dental question. “Like” theFacebook page for insights into the benefits of sedation dentistry. Call 805-560-9999 to inquire about cosmetic dentistry in Santa Barbara.