Our Smile Blog

It was an exciting day today as Peter Sagan Wins Stage 5 (Seaside to Paso Robles California) of the AMGEN Bike Race. Check out the Video as the Bike Race speeds directly in front of Dr. Marcum’s office. http://www.amgentourofcalifornia.com

The use of Laser light in the Medical field has been documented since the 1970′s. The first Dental laser was designed in 1989 by American Dental Technologies. Laser light differs from ordinary light by two properties: (1) it is a single color light (monochromatic); and (2) the light waves themselves are identical in size and shape (coherent). This combination of monochromatic-coherent light produces a unique source of energy which can be focused and directed for specific purposes. When laser light interacts with tissue it causes a specific effect upon the tissue depending on the color, wavelength and intensity of the light. When the intensity is increased the laser can be used to cut soft tissue. At a lower intensity the Laser is able to destroy sporulating bacteria, certain virus and anaerobes on contact. Lasers are very precise, and when used correctly it can disinfect and detoxiy oral tissue. In our office we use a Diode laser the “DioLase ST” (Soft Tissue) by ADT (American Dental Technologies). A special license is required to apply laser to the face or oral cavity. Dr. Marcum and our Registered Dental Hygienist, Kristie both have their California Laser Certification and are very skilled in the use of our laser. ~Dr. Grant E. Marcum practices General & Cosmetic Dentistry in Paso Robles, CA ~ Questions Please call (805)238-1033

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, The office of Dr. Grant Marcum will be making custom tooth whitening trays for 1/2 price, a fee of $175 (regularly $350.00) and donating the entire proceeds to our local division of the American Cancer Society. Appointments will be scheduled, October 25th, 26th, 27, 28th. Call today (805)238-1033. Grant E. Marcum, DDS 1004 Vine Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446

Grant E. Marcum, DDS of Paso Robles has successfully passed the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry’s (AACD) Accreditation Written Examination. The Accreditation Written Examination is the first step in the Accreditation process and challenges a dentist’s or laboratory technician’s foundational knowledge in cosmetic dentistry. This examination was administered in Grapevine, Texas during the 26th Annual AACD Scientific Session.

Achieving Accreditation by the AACD requires dedication to continuing education, careful adherence to the protocols, and a resolve to produce exceptional dentistry. The AACD’s Accreditation program for dentists is a three-part process consisting of a written examination, clinical case examinations, and an oral examination.

Grant E. Marcum practices cosmetic dentistry at 1004 Vine St. To learn more or arrange an interview, call 805.238.1033, or visit www.gemsmiles.com.

For more information regarding the AACD, visit www.aacd.com,

Sonicare Toothbrush On Sale Now In Our Office. Total gum care recommended by your dental professional. Available with 2 heads & UV Brush Head Sanitizer. Our Prices compare to Target & Costco, Only available to our existing & new patients of record. Stop by to review models & details.

Dry mouth also known as Xerostomia can be related to multiple physical conditions or environmental factors. The basic cause is the salivary gland not producing enough saliva. Commonly dry mouth is the side affect of perscription medications &/or chemotherapy. It can also be associated with other medical conditions like Diabetes, Lupus or Sjorgren’s syndrome. A dry mouth can exacerbate periodontitis and increase the risk for tooth decay. While the treatment for dry mouth should depend on the cause, there are several OTC products available at most pharmacies that can be used to help relieve dry mouth: Biotene has a full product line from gum to toothpaste, Moi-Stir is an artificial saliva, Spry also has a full product line with 100% Xylitol an ingredient which studies show reduces the risk for tooth decay.

Our team has returned from a week full of continuing education in GrapeVine Tx. In addition, Dr. Marcum has taken the written test and is now a candidate for accreditation with the AACD. We will be submitting our 5 required cases for peer review this year.

How much do Porcelain Veneers cost?– Is one of the most frequently asked questions in my practice. The reason most dentists are hesitant to answer this question is because truthfully each case is different. According to a national survey prices on Veneers Range from $900 to $2500 and average from $1000 to $1500 a piece. In my office the average case is about $1200 per tooth. If you try, you may be able to find lower prices for Veneers, but I caution patients against bargain shopping for something that will permanantly change their smile. Consumers must understand that Cosmetic Dentistry isn’t a legally recognized specialty and any dentist straight out of dental school can call himself or herself a “Cosmetic Dentist”. Don’t let this fool you. To be done correctly Cosmetic Dentistry requires extensive additional training beyond what we are trained to do in Dental School. Generally speaking, a porcelain dental veneer from a trained, experienced or Accredited member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry will be done to a higher standard and tend to cost slightly more (however this isn’t always the case). When researching Cosmetic Dentistry I do not ever recommend price shopping. I prefer to have patients research the dentists training and experience. Visit their office, ask to see photo’s of work they have done. Do you like the Doctor–Trust is a huge factor. I encourage you to call my office and schedule a complimentary consultation if you are interested in meeting me and seeing examples of my work. Call (805)238-1033; my office in Paso Robles is an easy 30 minute drive from San Luis Obispo,CA.

Dr. Marcum and his entire dental team return from the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentists (AACD) 24th Annual Scientific Session in New Orleans, LA “The Big Easy”. They have aquired another week of continuing education on their journey to becoming accredited by the AACD. Dr. Marcum is a 7+ year sustaining member of the AACD. He has successfully passed the written exam and continues to complete the rigorous criteria for accreditation. He has attended the last 6 out of 6 Annual Scientific Sessions. He and his TEAM are committed to keeping up-to-date with the latest techniques in clinical cosmetic dentistry. We pledge to provide genuine optimal care, offering the finest personal services and comforts in a warm relaxing, yet High-Tech environment. Helping our clients achieve total body health is our highest mission. Our membership in the AACD is an important resource in our commitment to Cosmetic Dentistry.

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Dr. Grant E. Marcum is an AACD Sustaining Cosmetic Dentist practicing at 1004 Vine Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446. For complimentary consultations, contact the doctor at (805) 238-1033

Paso Robles, CA, in San Luis Obispo County, Wedding Guide…Dr. Grant E. Marcum offers $100 off (single procedure) $125 off (2 or more) Brite*Smile One Hour Teeth Whitening (reg. price $550) an in office treatment. Most treatment is performed on the same day with results up to 15 shades lighter in one hour. Best results if you have had a dental cleaning within the past 6 months. Studies show the color is stable for 2-3 years following treatment if you adhere to strict guidelines the first 24 hours following the treatment. If you are interested call for a complementary consultation today. GEMsmiles.com 1004 Vine Street, Paso Robles, CA (805)238-1033.