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Summer is here — and with it comes all the cold, sweet, and citrusy snacks we love. From BBQs to beach days, there’s no shortage of tasty indulgences. But while your taste buds might be celebrating, your teeth could be under attack.

Here are a few common summer treats that might be doing more harm than good — and what you can do to protect your smile:

1. Popsicles, Slushies, and Ice-Cream
Cold treats can feel amazing in the heat, but if you have sensitive teeth, you might feel a sharp zing. Even worse? Many of these are packed with sugar that lingers in your mouth and feeds cavity-causing bacteria.
Tip: Rinse with water afterward and avoid slowly sucking on sugary ice — it exposes your teeth for longer.

2. Lemonade, Citrus Fruits, and Sparkling Water
Summer citrus is refreshing, but acidic foods and drinks can wear down enamel over time, leading to sensitivity and erosion.
Tip: Use a straw when possible and wait 30 minutes after eating citrus to brush (brushing too soon can spread the acid).

3. Sticky BBQ Sauce & Dried Fruits
BBQ season brings on deliciously sticky sauces — and snacks like dried mango or trail mix. The stickier the food, the more it clings to your teeth and feeds bacteria.
Tip: Floss or rinse after eating to remove residue between teeth.

4. Red Wine & Iced Coffee
Hosting a backyard dinner or poolside brunch? Be aware that both wine and iced coffee are top culprits for staining your teeth.
Tip: Rinse or chew sugar-free gum afterward to neutralize acids and prevent buildup.

The Good News?
You don’t have to give up your summer favorites — just stay mindful and book a professional cleaning to remove any buildup before it becomes a problem.

If you're experiencing tooth pain from sweets or cold drinks, it's important to see your dentist to determine the cause and get appropriate treatment — so you’re not missing out on those summer delights. It might be an easy fix if you’re approaching the problem early on instead of waiting until it becomes a serious issue.

Now through July 25, new patients can get:

• Free professional in-office teeth whitening (a $500 value) when they complete a comprehensive dental exam, professional cleaning, and any necessary treatment.

Start your summer off right — with a confident, healthy smile.

? Call us today or book your appointment online.

At Dentistry by Design, we believe true wellness begins with balance – and that includes managing stress. While some level of stress is a natural part of life, chronic stress can negatively impact your health in ways you might not expect – including your oral health.

Did you know that high stress levels are linked to dental issues like teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw clenching, and even gum disease? Emotional stress can play a key role in triggering or worsening periodontal disease. That’s why taking a holistic approach to stress management doesn’t just help your mind and body – it can also help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.

Here are some simple yet powerful ways to reduce stress and support your overall health:

1. See Your Doctor Regularly
Getting a physical can help rule out underlying medical issues that may be contributing to stress. It’s a vital first step in taking care of your whole body – mouth included.

2. Talk It Out
Stress can be isolating, but you’re not alone. Sharing your thoughts with a trusted family member or close friend can make a world of difference. Sometimes, just being heard is all it takes to start feeling better.

3. Taking Frequent Breaks
Small breaks throughout your day can help you recharge. Whether it’s stepping outside for a breath of fresh air or taking a few quiet moments to yourself, these pauses help reset your nervous system.

4. Get Moving
Regular exercise is one of the best ways to reduce tension, improve your mood, and boost your energy. It also supports your immune system, which plays a crucial role in oral health.

5. Set Boundaries
Don’t overwhelm yourself by taking on too much at once. Setting healthy limits helps you stay grounded and reduces anxiety, leading to a more peaceful and productive life.

6. Don’t Forget to Smile
Laughter truly is the best medicine. A daily dose of joy, humor, and connection with others is not only uplifting – it’s healing.

At Dentistry by Design, we care about more than just your teeth – we care about YOU. Dr. Ionescu takes a natural, patient-centered approach to dentistry because we believe that wellness starts from within. If stress is affecting your smile, your sleep, or your sense of well-being, we’re here to help.

Call us at (916) 685-4662 or visit www.elkgrovedentistry.com to schedule your next visit. Let’s take care of your health together – body, mind, and smile.

As the days get longer and the sun shines brighter, May brings a sense of renewal and fresh starts. It's not just your home that deserves a spring cleaning—your smile does too! At Dentistry by Design, we believe in supporting your total health with natural, personalized care that puts your comfort and well-being first.

Why Spring Is Ideal for Dental Care

After the indulgences of winter and the busy start of the year, May is the perfect time to check in on your oral health. A spring dental visit can help:

• Remove plaque and tartar buildup from winter months
• Catch small issues early before summer vacations and outdoor fun begin
• Brighten your smile with holistic whitening options
• Refresh your oral care routine with expert guidance tailored to your needs

Our approach at Dentistry by Design is gentle, thoughtful, and rooted in whole-body wellness. Dr. Ionescu’s philosophy combines cutting-edge dental technology with a natural, minimally invasive approach that supports your overall health.

What to Expect at Your May Checkup

Whether you're due for a cleaning or have been putting off a visit, we make it easy to get back on track. During your spring appointment, we’ll:

• Perform a comprehensive exam
• Offer gentle professional cleaning
• Discuss any concerns using a holistic lens
• Share customized advice for nutrition, at-home care, and preventive wellness

We want you to feel confident and empowered—not just about your smile, but about your health.

Seasonal Tip from Dr. Ionescu
"Spring is a time of growth and vitality. Hydrate well, enjoy seasonal produce like strawberries and leafy greens for healthy teeth and gums, and don’t skip your routine checkup—it’s a powerful act of self-care."
— Dr. Ionescu

Ready to Renew Your Smile?

This May, give yourself the gift of a naturally radiant smile. Whether you're a new patient or a familiar face, we’re here to support your journey to lasting oral wellness in a warm, spa-like setting.

Call us at (916) 685-4662
or
Schedule online at www.elkgrovedentistry.com

At Dentistry by Design, our mission goes beyond creating beautiful smiles — we’re committed to your whole-body health. In honor of Oral Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Ionescu and our team want to highlight an important, often overlooked health issue that affects tens of thousands of Americans each year.

What Is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer includes cancers of the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat. When caught early, oral cancer is highly treatable. Unfortunately, many cases go undetected until later stages, which is why early detection is absolutely critical.

The Power of Prevention

A key part of Dr. Ionescu’s holistic dental philosophy is preventive care. During your routine dental exams, we’re not just checking for cavities — we’re also looking for subtle signs of oral cancer. These include:

• Persistent mouth sores or ulcers
• Lumps or thick patches in the mouth or throat
• Red or white patches
• Difficulty swallowing or chewing
• Numbness in the mouth or lips

If you notice any of these symptoms, please don’t wait — schedule a consultation right away.

Who’s at Risk?

While anyone can develop oral cancer, certain lifestyle and health factors can increase your risk, including:

• Tobacco and alcohol use
• Excessive sun exposure (especially to the lips)
• HPV (human papillomavirus) infection
• A weakened immune system
• Poor nutrition

That’s why we emphasize not only regular screenings but also supporting a healthy lifestyle — inside and out.

What You Can Do

 Visit your dentist regularly — We recommend exams every 6 months, which include oral cancer screenings.

 Practice good oral hygiene — A clean, healthy mouth is your first line of defense.

 Stay mindful of your body — You know your body best. If something feels “off,” don’t ignore it.

 Make healthy lifestyle choices — Eat nourishing foods, stay hydrated, avoid tobacco, and limit alcohol.

Our Commitment to You

At Dentistry by Design, we are proud to offer thorough oral cancer screenings as part of every comprehensive dental exam. Dr. Ionescu combines advanced diagnostic tools with a caring, personalized approach to ensure you feel safe, informed, and empowered.

Your oral health is a window into your overall well-being — and we’re here to protect both.

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Let’s raise awareness together.
Share this blog post with someone you love. If it’s been a while since your last checkup, we encourage you to schedule your appointment today.

 Call us at (916) 685-4662
 Learn more at www.elkgrovedentistry.com