Our Blog

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.

---

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

Mouth sores—we’ve all had them, and we all know how annoying they can be. Whether it’s a canker sore inside your mouth or a cold sore on your lip, these little troublemakers make eating, talking, and even smiling a challenge. The good news? They don’t have to stick around for long!

At Dentistry by Design, we want to help you heal faster and feel better. Try these easy, natural remedies to soothe the pain and speed up recovery.

---

Soothing Remedies for Canker Sores

Canker sores are those pesky little ulcers that pop up inside your mouth. They’re not contagious, but they sure can be painful! Here’s how to ease the discomfort:

 Coriander Rinse

Coriander is like nature’s little healer!
 Boil 2 tablespoons of coriander leaves in a cup of water.
 Strain and let it cool to lukewarm.
 Rinse your mouth 3 times a day for relief.

 Black Tea Bag Trick

Black tea isn’t just for sipping—it’s got tannins that help reduce pain!
 Steep a black tea bag in warm water.
 Hold the tea bag against the sore for 10–15 minutes.
 Repeat as needed throughout the day.

 Aloe & Baking Soda Magic

Aloe soothes, baking soda balances—this combo is a winner!
 Rinse your mouth with aloe vera juice.
 Dab baking soda directly onto the sore to help it heal faster.

 Spiced Milk Nightcap

This one’s perfect before bedtime!
 Mix 1 teaspoon of coriander leaves, cumin seeds, and cane sugar into a glass of milk.
 Boil until it reduces by half, then drink up!
 Do this twice a day for extra healing power.

---

Quick Fixes for Cold Sores

Cold sores (aka fever blisters) are caused by a virus and usually show up on the lips. They can be itchy, tingly, and downright annoying. Try these simple remedies to calm them down:

 Cornstarch Paste

A simple trick to reduce irritation!
 Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 teaspoon of water to make a paste.
 Apply before bed and let it work its magic overnight.

 Essential Oil Boost

Lemon balm (melissa) and lavender oil can help speed up healing!
 Dab a few drops directly onto the sore several times a day.

 Milk Soak

Milk has immune-boosting properties that help fight the virus.
 Soak a cotton ball in whole milk and hold it on the sore for a few minutes.

 Hydrogen Peroxide Cleanse

Help dry out the sore and prevent infection!
 Soak a cotton ball in hydrogen peroxide and apply for 5 minutes.
 Expect a little tingle—it’s doing its job!

---

When to Call in the Pros

Most mouth sores clear up on their own in about a week. But if yours is sticking around for more than two weeks, is super painful, or makes it hard to eat, it’s time to see a dentist.

We’re Here to Help!

If your mouth sores are making life miserable, let’s get to the root of the problem! Book an appointment with Dentistry by Design, and we’ll take care of you.

For years, amalgam fillings were the go-to solution for treating cavities. However, as dental research and technology have evolved, so has our understanding of their long-term effects. Today, many dentists—including Dr. Ionescu—have moved away from using amalgam altogether. But why?

Why Amalgam Fillings Are No Longer Recommended

Dr. Ionescu stopped using amalgam fillings more than 20 years ago, and for good reason. Here are three key concerns:

1. Tooth Health Compromise – Amalgam fillings require removing more healthy tooth structure to be placed properly. This weakens the tooth over time, increasing the risk of fractures.
2. Potential Health Risks – Amalgam contains mercury, a toxic substance that has raised concerns regarding its long-term safety.
3. Environmental Impact – Mercury from dental amalgam can contribute to pollution, posing risks to the environment.

While amalgam was once the standard, its tendency to expand and contract with temperature changes can cause cracks and further damage to the tooth over time.

The Benefits of Composite Fillings

As an alternative, composite fillings have become the preferred choice for both dental health and aesthetics. These fillings:

• Bond directly to the tooth, preserving more natural structure.
• Are mercury-free, eliminating potential health concerns.
• Blend seamlessly with your natural teeth for a more attractive smile.
• Don’t expand or contract, reducing the risk of fractures and future damage.

Choosing composite fillings is not just about appearance—it’s about making a safer, healthier, and more environmentally responsible decision. With advances in modern dentistry, you no longer have to settle for outdated materials when better options are available.

Would you like to discuss replacing your old amalgam fillings? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Ionescu today and take the first step toward a healthier smile!

The start of a new year is all about fresh starts, setting goals, and taking care of what matters most—and that includes your smile! Whether you’re aiming for healthier habits, more confidence, or simply keeping up with your wellness goals, scheduling a dental check-up is one of the best ways to start 2025 on the right note. Here’s why your teeth deserve a spot on your New Year’s resolution list.

---

1. A Fresh Start for Your Smile ?✨

There’s something motivating about the clean slate of a new year, and your smile deserves that same feeling. A professional dental cleaning removes plaque, tartar, and stains that brushing alone can’t tackle, leaving your teeth feeling smooth, refreshed, and ready to face the year ahead.

Plus, a dental check-up isn’t just about cleaning—it’s about prevention. By catching potential issues early, you’re not only protecting your smile but also avoiding more extensive (and expensive) treatments down the road.

Tip: Start the year strong by booking your dental cleaning early in the year—it’s one resolution that’s easy to check off your list!

---

2. Catch Problems Early ?️

Dental issues, like cavities and gum disease, often don’t show noticeable symptoms until they’ve progressed. Regular check-ups allow your dentist to spot small problems before they become major headaches.

Early detection is key to saving time, money, and discomfort. A quick filling now is far easier (and more affordable) than a root canal or crown later.

Remember: Prevention is always better than treatment.

---

3. Oral Cancer Screenings: Early Detection Saves Lives ?️

Every dental check-up with Dr. Ionescu at Dentistry by Design includes an oral cancer screening—a quick but essential step in protecting your health.

Oral cancer often develops silently, with early signs easily missed without professional evaluation. An annual screening can identify potential issues early, improving the chances of successful treatment.

Your health is worth the extra five minutes. Don’t skip your check-up this year!

---

4. Maximize Your Dental Benefits ?

For many patients, dental insurance benefits reset at the start of the year. If you have a new policy or your benefits have renewed, now’s the perfect time to take advantage of them.

Scheduling your first cleaning and check-up early ensures you’re making the most of your plan and gives you time to plan any follow-up treatments needed later in the year.

Pro Tip: Don’t wait until the end of the year when schedules are packed—book your appointment early!

---

5. Boost Your Confidence with a Bright Smile ?

Your smile is one of the first things people notice, and there’s nothing like the confidence of knowing your teeth are healthy and bright.

Whether you’re interested in teeth whitening, cosmetic treatments, or just a thorough cleaning, a dental visit can help you put your best smile forward in every meeting, photo, and conversation this year.

Fun Fact: People with confident smiles are often perceived as more approachable, successful, and trustworthy. So why not start 2025 with your brightest smile yet?

---

6. Build Healthy Habits for the Year Ahead ?️

Good oral health isn’t a one-time goal—it’s a year-round commitment. Your dentist can help you set achievable oral care goals, whether it’s improving your flossing routine, reducing sugary drinks, or investing in a better toothbrush.

Start small:

• Brush twice a day for two minutes.
• Floss daily.
• Drink more water.
• Schedule your next cleaning before you leave your appointment.

Remember: Consistency is key, and small steps lead to big results.

---

Make 2025 Your Smile’s Best Year Yet ?

Your dental health is an investment in yourself. By prioritizing your smile early in the year, you’re setting the stage for a confident, healthy, and worry-free 2025.

? Call Dr. Ionescu at Dentistry by Design today at (916) 685-4662 to schedule your first dental check-up of the year and let’s make this your healthiest smile yet!

Start the year fresh. Start it with a smile. ?✨