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Salem Satisfaction Guarantee

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We guarantee your satisfaction.

When you buy a car, a home, or any large item– you usually get a warranty. So, why don’t you get that kind of guarantee when you have dental work done? At Burba Dental Partners– you do!!

Choosing a cosmetic dentist that you trust takes a lot of faith. How can you know that you’ll be happy with your results? At Burba Dental, we strive to put your mind at ease with our beautiful smile guarantee along with our limited warranty.

Our Limited Warranty

We’re proud of the services and care we provide to our patients. While we’ll focus on your current dental problems, we’ll also pay attention to your long-term dental health goals. We’ll provide you with treatment that’s based on the most up-to-date research, the best skills, materials, and service. Finally, we’ll show you how to properly protect and care for your teeth and gums so you can avoid dental issues in the future.

Together, we’ll work to ensure that you not only maintain good dental health, but we’ll also provide you with the opportunity to have a smile you’ll be proud to show the world. Given these goals, we at Burba Dental promise to stand behind our treatment and our services to the very best of our abilities. You’ll be expected to do your part by faithfully making and keeping post-care appointments at the intervals recommended by Dr. Burba and our hygienist (2, 3, 4, or 6 months). In turn, we will warranty the following list of treatments:

-Sealants: 3 years

-Composite fillings: 3 years

-Removable dentures and partial dentures: 3 years

-Crowns, bridges, onlays, and porcelain veneers: 5 years

If any of the above treatments fail within the stated time period, we’ll repair or replace the services provided as long as you have faithfully maintained your personalized aftercare schedule. This warranty does not include any damage caused by trauma or obvious negligence done by the patient.

This warranty is null and void if you don’t maintain your aftercare schedule recommended by Dr. Burba and our hygienist, or if you fail to utilize the procedures recommended by Dr. Burba for the care and protection of the above.

Beautiful Smile Guarantee

Girl smiling at the camera.

In addition to these treatments, we also offer a smile guarantee! When you come to us for a smile makeover, we’ll take pictures of your teeth and discuss the kind of smile design you’re looking for. We’ll then translate your smile goals into a wax model of your design. The next step is temporary veneers. If you’re not happy with how they look, we’ll make any necessary changes and send them back to the lab.

When your permanents are ready to be bonded to your teeth, if you don’t absolutely love your new veneers, we’ll send them back to the lab until you do. We can’t make any major changes once we have bonded them to your teeth, but before we place them, we promise to send your veneers back to the lab as often as necessary to get you the smile you’re looking for. That’s our beautiful smile guarantee!

Schedule an Appointment

If you’re ready to make an appointment, you can request one online or call the office. We look forward to treating you!

Dr. Randall Burba is an American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry accredited dentist, with a practice in Salem, Massachusetts. He considers himself an artist–with teeth and beyond! He often paints, draws and has a passion for woodworking.

 

The Importance of Fluoride

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Picture of a toothbrush "fluoride is nature's cavity fighter.

What is it?

Fluoride is commonly used in dentistry to strengthen enamel, which is the outer layer of your teeth. It helps to prevent cavities, so it’s sold in some kinds of toothpaste, and it’s also added in small amounts to public water supplies in the United States and many other countries. But, what exactly is?

Fluoride is a chemical compound of fluorine paired with another element. It contains compounds that are used in the prevention of tooth decay.

Cavity prevention.

If your toothpaste is fluoride-free, brushing and flossing alone isn’t enough to keep the cavities away. According to a recent study done at The University of Washington, fluoride has a huge effect on helping you avoid cavities.

While brushing and flossing do help, it’s fluoride that makes the difference in getting to the plaque and preventing cavities. If you don’t use some form of it, the plaque is inaccessible and you can’t reach it.

How does it work?

Cavities start to form in tiny cracks and crevices in your tooth enamel. Exactly how fluoride helps prevent cavities is not certain, but there’s some evidence that it may inhibit the enzymes that break down the tooth.

Scientists hypothesize that the fluoride ions replace hydroxyl ions in hydroxyapatite in your teeth, which lead to fewer cavities. This is why it’s added to some kinds of toothpaste, and certain dentists may also give you a yearly fluoride treatment. Overall, experts believe it helps restore minerals to the enamel, which ultimately helps to strengthen your teeth.

Smiling latino boy portrait outdoors drinking water

Tap water is an important source of fluoride.

Water supply.

Besides buying toothpaste with fluoride and having yearly treatments done at your dentist, another way to get it is through your tap water. More than 70 years of scientific research has consistently shown that an optimal level in community water is safe and effective in preventing tooth decay by at least 25% in both children and adults. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention named community water fluoridation one of the ten great public health achievements of the 20th century.

Are there any side effects?

While fluoride is a naturally occurring compound, it can still cause side effects when consumed in large doses. In the United States, the amount that’s added to water is very small– about  0.7 parts per million (ppm). That’s the maximum allowed amount, as of 2015– and it’s completely safe.

Dental fluorosis happens when you consume too much fluoride while your teeth are still forming under your gums. This results in white spots on the surface of your teeth. Other than the appearance of white spots, dental fluorosis doesn’t cause any other symptoms or harm.

It usually only tends to affect children under the age of 8, who don’t have all of their permanent teeth. Kids are also more likely to swallow toothpaste, which contains significantly more fluoride than fluoridated water.

Many people have claimed that it can cause other health problems. The truth is, aside from the occasional mild case of dental fluorosis, there’s absolutely no scientific evidence that fluoride added to local water supplies causes any health problems.

Make an appointment.

The American Dental Association recommends that you have a dental cleaning twice a year. If it’s been over six months since your last cleaning, it’s time for you to make an appointment. If you’d like a fluoride rinse, please ask!

Dr. Randall Burba is an American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry accredited dentist, with a practice in Salem, Massachusetts. He considers himself an artist–with teeth and beyond! He often paints, draws and has a passion for woodworking.

25 Quotes About Smiling

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A picture of a dog smiling.

Smiling is good for you.

Science has shown that the mere act of smiling can lift your mood, lower stress, boost your immune system and possibly even prolong your life. There are a million reasons to smile! Let’s take a look at 25 of our favorite quotes we could find about smiling.

Say Cheese!

1.) “A smile is a laugh that bursts.”- Mary H. Waldrip

2.) “Life is short, smile while you still have teeth.”- Mallory Hopkins

3.) “A warm smile is the universal language of kindness.” -William Arthur Ward

4.) “Wrinkles should merely indicate where smiles have been.” -Mark Twain

5.) “Smile, it’s the key that fits the lock on everyone’s hearts.” -Anthony J D’Angelo

6.) “Use your smile to change the world, don’t let the world change your smile.” -unknown

7.) “Never regret something that once made you smile.” -unknown

8.) “Smile in the mirror. Do that every morning and you’ll start to see a big difference in your life.” -Yoko Ono

9.) “Let us always meet each other with a smile, for a smile is the beginning of love.” -Mother Teresa

10.) “Share your smile with the world. It’s a symbol of friendship and peace.” -Christie Brinkley

11.) “Because of your smile, you make life more beautiful.” -Thich Nhat Hana

12.) “Most smiles are started by another smile.” -Frank A. Clark

13.) “Nothing you wear is more important than your smile.” -Connie Stevens

14.) “Your smile is your logo, your personality is your business card, how you leave others feeling after having an experience with you becomes your trademark.” -Jay Danzie

15.) “Making one person smile can change the world. Maybe not the whole world but their world.” -John Spence

16.) “Beauty is power, a smile is its sword.” -John Ray

17.) “Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened.” -Dr. Suess

18.) “Smile! It increases your face value.” Robert Harling

19.) “Colors are the smiles of nature.” -Leigh Hunt

20.) “A smile is the best makeup any girl can wear.” -Marilyn Monroe

21.) “Wear a smile — one size fits all.” -unknown

22.) “If you’re reading this… Congratulations, you’re alive. If that’s not something to smile about, then I don’t know what is.” -Chad Sugg, Monsters Under Your Head

23.) “It only takes a split second to smile and forget, yet to someone that needed it, it can last a lifetime.” -Steve Maraboli

24.) “Allowing yourself to smile takes 99% of the effort.” -Simon Travaglia

25.) “You’ve got to S-M-I-L-E To be H-A-P-P-Y.” -Shirley Temple Black

We hope these quotes made you smile. Smiling is such a simple act that takes little to no effort. The next time you’re feeling down, force yourself to smile– who knows what good it will do for you and those around you!

Scheule an Appointment

If it’s time to get your smile checked out, make an appointment. The American Dental Association recommends you come in to see us for a check-up at least twice a year. We look forward to seeing your beautiful smile!

Dr. Randall Burba is an American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry accredited dentist, with a practice in Salem, Massachusetts. He considers himself an artist–with teeth and beyond! In his free time, he often paints, draws and has a passion for woodworking.

Burba Dental Partners: Our Other Services

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At Burba Dental Partners, our passion is beautiful, durable dentistry.

Some dental offices only focus on cleanings and other basic, restorative work. While we have these services, we additionally offer a plethora of others. Since Dr. Stanley and Dr. Randy always like to provide their patients with a clear understanding of their care, we wanted to give you a detailed description of some our most popular procedures. Our goal is to give you a smile that looks as good as it feels!

Smile Makeovers

You too can have a stunning smile!

Are you someone who’s unhappy with their smile? Occasionally, our patients come in for a smile makeover knowing exactly what kind of smile they’re looking for. They even provide us with pictures. Other times, all they know is that they want to improve their smile– without knowing exactly how. Either way, we can help you get the smile you’ve always dreamed about.

There are essentially three types of smiles: youthful, sophisticated, and sporty. Within these frameworks, we can do any number of variations in shape, size, and color.

Once you’ve decided on the basic framework of your smile, we’ll work out other details, including the exact color. Take a look at some of the gorgeous smiles we’ve created! We know you’ll be happy with the result because we guarantee all of our smiles.

Dental Implants

Another common procedure we perform is placing dental implants. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that supports a crown. It’s made of titanium and surgically placed into your jawbone to replace your missing tooth root. Once your custom-made crown is placed on the implant, it’ll function just like a natural tooth. You’ll be able to eat with the same efficiency, and no special dental hygiene procedures are needed.

The implants are placed in a two-step process. First, the root form is surgically implanted in your jawbone, just below your gumline. Then, bone grows in tightly around the implant during a process called osseointegration, which anchors it to the jawbone.

The final step is placing a crown on the implant– which completes the tooth restoration.

Invisalign

Finally, there’s a new option in orthodontics. No longer do you need bulky, uncomfortable metal brackets filling your mouth in order to straighten your teeth. With Invisalign, you can have a beautiful, straight smile in half the time of traditional braces.

First, Dr. Burba will take a detailed impression of your teeth. Three-dimensional images of the impressions are programmed into a computer that will manufacture a set of aligners designed specifically for you. When you get your first set of aligners they’ll feel like they don’t fit– which is intentional. The aligners are gently moving your teeth into a new position. After about two weeks, they’ll fit naturally. Then, it’s time for the next set of aligners. This process continues until your teeth are perfectly straight.

This new computerized method is much more accurate than other orthodontics. Because of that, Invisalign works in about six months to a year– which is half the time of traditional braces!

Make an Appointment

 

If it’s been over six months since your last cleaning– you’re due!

Keep in mind, these are just some of the things we offer. To see a full list, please visit our website. If you’d like to know if you’re a candidate for any of our services, but you aren’t ready to schedule an exam– we’d be happy to have you come in for a complimentary consultation with one of our doctors. Just give us a call, or visit our appointment page. We can’t wait to meet you!

Dr. Randall and Stanley Burba

Dr. Randall Burba (left) and Dr. Stanley Burba (right)

Dr. Randall Burba is an American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry accredited dentist, with a practice in Salem, Massachusetts. He considers himself an artist–with teeth and beyond! In his free time, he often paints, draws and has a passion for woodworking.

 

 

Diabetes and Your Oral Health

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Diabetes

Over 9 million people in the United States have diabetes, and about 1.4 million new cases of diabetes are diagnosed every year. In fact, more than one in every 10 adults who are over the age of 20 have it. March 28th is the official American Diabetes Association’s Alert Day. Find out more about what you can do to protect yourself.

Do you suffer from diabetes?

What is it?

Diabetes is a number of diseases that involve problems with the hormone insulin. Normally, the pancreas releases insulin to help your body store and use the sugar and fat from the food you eat. Diabetes can occur when your pancreas produces very little or no insulin, or when your body doesn’t respond appropriately to insulin. Every 21 seconds someone is diagnosed with diabetes, and as of now– there’s no cure. Additionally, the disease is directly linked to poor oral health.

What’s the correlation?

Your oral health affects your overall health in a big way. A healthy mouth leads to a healthy body.

Millions of Americans suffer from diabetes and you might be surprised to learn about an unexpected complication associated with the condition. Research shows that there’s an increased prevalence of gum disease among those with diabetes. Other complications associated with it include heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.

The progression of gum disease.

Not only are diabetics more susceptible to serious gum disease, but serious gum disease may have the potential to affect blood glucose control and contribute to the progression of it. Research suggests that people with diabetes are at higher risk for oral health problems, such as gingivitis (an early stage of gum disease) and periodontitis (serious gum disease). All diabetics are at an increased risk for gum disease because they’re generally more susceptible to bacterial infection. Therefore, they have a decreased ability to fight bacteria that invade the gums.

It’s manageable.

Stop tooth loss before it starts.

If your blood glucose levels are poorly controlled, you’re more likely to develop serious gum disease and lose more teeth. Like all infections, serious gum disease may be a factor in causing blood sugar to rise and may make diabetes harder to control. Maintaining good oral health is an essential part of living a healthy life. Additionally, diabetics need to manage their disease closely to stay healthy.

Make An Appointment

See us twice a year.

Always keep us informed of any changes in your condition and any medication you might be taking. Postpone any non-emergency dental procedures if your blood sugar is irregular.

The American Dental Association says that good oral health is integral to general health. Therefore, be sure to brush and floss properly and see us for regular checkups.

If it’s been over six months since your last appointment–make one today!

Dr. Randall and Stanley Burba

Dr. Randall Burba (left) and Dr. Stanley Burba (right)

Dr. Randall Burba is an American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry accredited dentist, with a practice in Salem, Massachusetts. He considers himself an artist–with teeth and beyond! He often paints, draws and has a passion for woodworking.

Smile Makeovers

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Put your trust in us.

What a difference a beautiful smile makes! We know that choosing the right cosmetic dentist who will makeover your smile takes a great deal of trust. But, no matter what it is that you want to change about your teeth– we can help.

Are you worried about the results? How will you know that you’ll be satisfied? At Burba Dental, we strive to put your mind at ease with our beautiful smile guarantee. In fact, we guarantee that if you’re ever unsatisfied with any of our work, we’ll fix it– free of charge, until you’re satisfied. Let’s take a look at some of our favorite smile makeovers!

Amy

Before.

After.

Amy came to our office during a difficult time in her life. She was 34, facing a divorce, and coping with life as a single mother of two children. Her confidence and self-esteem were very much affected by not only what was happening in her personal life, but also by her smile. She felt like she needed to hide her teeth due to the visible decay and discoloration from old bonding. After repairing and restoring her teeth with porcelain veneers, Amy had a sudden boost in confidence. Her new, beautiful smile and increase in self-esteem resulted in Amy’s ability to move forward in both her personal and professional life.

Deb

Before.

After.

Deb, 58, always wanted “perfect” teeth. She felt as though her teeth made her look older, and she wanted a more youthful appearance. Using both crowns and veneers, we gave Deb a full smile makeover. When we handed her the mirror afterward, she began to cry and believed her outward appearance finally matched how she felt inside. Beautiful!

Frank

Before.

After.

Frank’s career involves close interactions with people on a daily basis. Over the years, his teeth deteriorated. Several were missing and those that remained were badly broken down. Frank was hesitant to have his teeth fixed because of unpleasant dental experiences in the past. He had always chosen to extract the teeth that were broken and decayed instead of repairing them. After a great deal of consideration, Frank chose to have his smile restored. As a result, we were able to give him back his beautiful and youthful smile. He had both upper and lower teeth restored with fillings, bridges, crowns, and veneers.

Deidre

Before.

After.

Deirdre, 37, always felt as though her smile made her look like a child. With her sister’s wedding approaching, she found a new motivation to improve her smile. Deirdre wanted a more sophisticated appearance for the wedding photos, and with six porcelain veneers, we were able to give her the look she always wanted.

Make An Appointment

Schedule a consultation to discuss your options.

If there’s something about your teeth that you want to change, schedule a consultation for a smile makeover and let us work our magic! You’ll love your new smile– we guarantee it.

Dr. Randall and Stanley Burba

Dr. Randall Burba (left) and Dr. Stanley Burba (right)

Dr. Randall Burba is an American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry accredited dentist, practicing in Salem, Massachusetts. He considers himself an artist–with teeth and beyond! He often paints, draws and has a passion for woodworking.

Make This Halloween Tooth Friendly

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Happy Halloween!

Trick-or-Treat.

Just thinking about Halloween candy and its effect on your children’s teeth is enough to make you want to avoid the holiday all together. But don’t fret, your kids CAN eat candy, and trick-or-treat with their friends– and still be healthy.

Tooth Decay in Children

More than half of all children have cavities by the second grade.

The U.S. Surgeon General recognizes oral health as critical to overall well-being. Unfortunately, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, cavities are a chronic disease that’s five times more common than asthma among our nation’s children.

The majority of tooth decay occurs from eating foods that contain sugars or starches that enable bacteria in dental plaque to produce acids. If the acids remain in their mouth for longer than 20 minutes, it can lead to a loss of tooth minerals and eventually– cavities.

Making Better Choices

The kind of candy they eat makes a difference.

Choosing the right kinds of candies and snacks this Halloween is a crucial part to keeping your kiddos teeth healthy.

Try and avoid lollipops or any hard candies that will allow large amounts of sugar to sit in their mouth for long periods of time. If your child licks a piece of hard candy every few minutes, they’ll be more susceptible to tooth decay, because long-lasting snacks create an acid attack the entire time they’re in the mouth. Therefore, one approach would be to allow your little witches and goblins to indulge in their Halloween candy at mealtimes– instead of as a snack.

In addition, avoid sour candies, since they’re highly acidic, and taffy– because it can get stuck in their teeth.

Don’t worry– we aren’t making you avoid all of the good stuff this holiday. Grab some dark chocolate! Its antioxidant properties will help to keep your kid’s hearts healthy.

Furthermore, sugar-free hard candies can stimulate saliva and prevent dry mouth.

Finally, chewing sugar-free gum after meals helps to prevent cavities, by aiding in removing food particles in teeth left behind that cause decay.

We’ll Buy Back Your Candy!

Donate your candy to this wonderful cause.

We’re having an awesome event that we’d love for you to participate in. This Halloween, if you have leftover candy, or candy that you don’t want your children to eat– donate it!  On November 2nd, we’ll buy back your unwanted candy and donate it to servicemen and women overseas. It’s a great way to teach your kids about our military and giving back to the community. Plus, they get a little cash incentive. It’s a win-win.

Have Fun

Happy Halloween Everyone!

Have a safe and Happy Halloween!

It’s okay to let your children have Halloween treats– just make sure they do it in moderation. Depriving your kids of all candy will only make them want it more. Remember, good dental health depends on more than just their diet.

Practice good oral hygiene by making sure your kiddos brush and floss every day, use fluoride toothpaste, and visit us regularly. If it’s been over six months since they’ve been in to see us, make an appointment today.

Dr. Randall and Stanley Burba

Dr. Randall Burba (left) and Dr. Stanley Burba (right)

Dr. Randall Burba is an American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry accredited dentist, practicing in Salem, Massachusetts. He considers himself an artist–with teeth and beyond! He often paints, draws and has a passion for woodworking.

Meet The Burbas

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Drs. Randall and Stanley Burba

Between the two of them, they have a lot of knowledge.

They’re your favorite dentists, but how much do you really know about them? Find out more about the amazing doctor and son team– the Burbas!

Dr. Randall Burba, DDS

Dr. Randall Burba, DDS

Dr. Randall Burba, DDS

Dr. Randy Burba earned his undergraduate degrees in biology and chemistry from Providence College in Rhode Island, and in 1995 he earned his doctorate from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. He began his dental career alongside his father, Dr. Stanley Burba, in Salem, MA.

Dr. Burba is committed to providing his patients with exceptional care. For sixteen years he’s been practicing general dentistry in a family practice with an emphasis on cosmetic dentistry. His high work ethic means that he won’t just rely on his years of experience. Additionally, Dr. Burba and his team offer state-of-the-art dentistry to their patients through a considerable amount of continuing education, and both Dr. Randy and Dr. Stanley are AACD accredited.

AACD Accreditation

AACD accreditation is the standard of excellence in the cosmetic dentistry field, and only around one out of every 500 dentists worldwide have attained this level.

The process of obtaining accreditation includes:

-An extensive written examination.

-An oral examination administered by the American Board of Cosmetic Dentistry.

-Close-up photographic documentation of a broad range of cosmetic treatments performed on patient.

-A peer review of their artistic skills in delivering cosmetic dentistry.

Dr. Randy has also held leadership positions in the AACD and he’s a past president of the New England Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of the national AACD.

Advanced Training

Dr. Randy Burba doesn’t limit his advanced training to cosmetic dentistry. While Massachusetts requires 20 hours of continuing education each year, he routinely exceeds 100 hours, staying up with advances in implant dentistry, complex restorative dentistry and TMJ treatment. Furthermore, he’s a graduate of the Dawson Academy in Florida, which teaches full mouth rehabilitation, complex restorative dentistry and occlusion.

Personal Life

picture of a camera- Dr. Burbas passion

His other passion is photography!

In his spare time– when he’s not treating patients, Dr. Burba enjoys spending time with his wife and three children, woodworking, photography and traveling.

Dr. Stanley Burba, DDS

Dr. Stanley Burba DDS

Dr. Stanley Burba, DDS

Dr. Stanley Burba was raised in Salem, MA, and still lives here with his wife, Janet, a hygienist in our office. He’s been serving the Salem community for over forty years! After graduating from St. John’s Preparatory School in Danvers, MA, he received his Bachelors of Science from Northeastern University in Boston. He went on to attend Georgetown University School of Dentistry and received his DDS degree in 1965.

After graduating he held a position as an instructor in the Department of Crown and Bridge at Georgetown University Dental School in Washington, D.C. Then, in 1967, he left to serve our country in Vietnam and received a U.S. Army Commendation Medal for Meritorious Dental Service. He was a lieutenant in the U.S. Army Signal Corps and then a captain in the U.S. Army Dental Corps.

Once he returned home from Vietnam, he went on to open his family dental practice in Salem. He is committed to providing valued patient care in an environment of trust and understanding. His passion for dentistry is displayed in his desire to continue offering the best in patient care. In addition, he attends continuing education courses every year to keep up with the advances in dental medicine.

Awards

– Georgetown University of Dentistry Clinical Diligence Award (1965)

– U.S. Army Commendation Medal for Meritorious Dental service in Vietnam (1967)

– Fellow International College of Dentists (1987)

Personal Life

Dr. Stanley and Mrs. Burba have four kids: Randall, Elaine, Elizabeth and Deborah. Between their four children, they have a whopping ten grandchildren! During their free time they enjoy traveling, boating and spending time with their family.

Make An Appointment

Picture of a calendar and a toothbrush to remind people to schedule their dental appts

Schedule your appointment today.

If it’s been over six months since you’ve been in to see us, request an appointment today or give us a call to schedule 978-744-7575!

Are You Following Us On Social Media?

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Stay connected.

Thanks for being such a loyal reader of the Burba Buzz!

Every day, more than one billion people connect with each other using social media. In just the last 10 years alone, social media has completely changed the way we communicate, and has allowed us to reach people all around the world. Here at Burba Dental Partners, we have 3 different social media platforms that we use to interact with our patients. We would love for you to follow us on our Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

We have fun contests, deals, and all sorts of goodies in store for you. You can even schedule appointments, keep up with the latest office news, and find a wealth of information about your oral health.

Facebook

On our Facebook page, we like to keep you up-to-date with current news, photos, and events. Through Facebook, you can find a link to schedule an appointment, and we’re also available to answer any and all questions you may have for us. Let’s be friends.

Twitter

 

 

We love to tweet! On our Twitter, we share anything and everything related to your oral health. We have tips and tricks, along with informative articles about your dental and overall health and well-being. Follow us to join the fun. As an added bonus, we’ll even follow you back!

Instagram

Lastly, we have an Instagram. We enjoy posting pictures of our office events, and showing off our amazing patients. Dr. Burba even does volunteer trips to countries without adequate dental care and sends back pictures of the beautiful work he does.

Our other favorite thing to do on our Instagram page, is feature our patients posing with one of our in-office signs. The next time you’re in the office, just ask us to pose with the sign of your choice. We have a couple of options to choose from, and it’s especially fun for your little ones.

It’s true!

#showmeyoursmile

What Are You Waiting For?

If you like our content, or you’re a patient of yours– make sure you’re following us on all of our social media platforms. It’s a great way to communicate with us, and stay up to date with everything happening here at Burba. We can’t wait to be friends!

 

Dr. Randall Burba (left) and Dr. Stanley Burba (right)

Dr. Randall Burba is an American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry accredited dentist, practicing in Salem, Massachusetts. He considers himself an artist–with teeth and beyond! He often paints, draws and has a passion for woodworking.

April Is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

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What Is Oral Cancer?

Educate yourself and help stop the spread of oral cancer.

Oral cancer, a.k.a cancer of the mouth and upper throat, kills about one person every hour of every day of the year. Of the people that are newly diagnosed, about 40 percent won’t survive longer than five years. In addition, those who do survive can suffer long-term problems, such as severe facial disfigurement or difficulties eating and speaking. The death rate associated with oral cancers is particularly high since the cancer is often discovered late in its development.

Why Do We Have Oral Cancer Awareness Month?

Because the death rate is so high, it’s important we dedicate an entire month to educating the public about the risks. Oral Cancer Awareness Month is celebrated in April, and it’s a national screening campaign to end oral cancer. Awareness in the American public is low, and without education– the problem won’t get any better.

The purpose of the campaign is to remind everyone that regular cancer exams by your dentist, remain the best method to detect oral cancer in its early stages. The Academy of General Dentistry, the American Academy of Oral Medicine, the American Dental Association, and the American Dental Hygienists’ Association, just to name a few– have all joined the Oral Cancer Foundation in its campaign to educate the public about knowing the risks.

Risks

Being aware of the symptoms and risk factors of oral and oropharyngeal cancer– along with early detection and treatment, may be the key to a complete recovery. There are a number of things that contribute to the onset of oral cancer, but the top three are tobacco, alcohol and HPV.

Tobacco

Tobacco can wreak havoc on your mouth.

Cigarette smoking puts you at a higher risk for developing mouth cancer, since tobacco smoke contains chemicals that have been proven to contribute to oral and esophageal cancer.

Alcohol

Avoid alcohol for a healthy mouth.

All forms of alcohol can cause or contribute to mouth cancer. Alcohol, particularly when used in addition to tobacco, has been recognized as an important risk factor for almost 50 years.

HPV

Young people are increasingly at risk for oral cancer due to HPV.

Finally, genital HPV, also known as the human papilloma virus, is a very common sexually transmitted disease. It usually causes no symptoms and goes away by itself, but it can cause serious illnesses, including oral cancer. In fact, HPV is responsible for approximately 60% of all oral cancers.

As a result, the fastest growing demographic of oral cancer patients is young, healthy, nonsmoking individuals. If you have HPV, you’re 30 times more likely to develop oral cancer.

Signs and Symptoms

Knowing the signs and symptoms of this terrible disease can help with early detection, and ultimately save lives. The following are all signs you could have oral cancer:

-A white or red patch in your mouth.

-A feeling that something is caught in your throat.

-Difficulty chewing or swallowing.

-A sore, irritation, lump or thick patch in your mouth, lip, or throat.

-Difficulty moving your tongue or jaw.

-Numbness in your tongue or other areas of your mouth.

-Swelling of your jaw.

-Pain in one ear without hearing loss.

If you have any of these symptoms for more than 2 weeks, you need to see us for an exam right away. Usually, these symptoms don’t mean cancer, but you need be sure. An infection or other problem can cause the same symptoms– but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Get Checked

We can’t stop this virus from spreading, but we do hope to save lives with professional involvement and public awareness. While the death toll is high, when cancers are detected and treated early, mortality and treatment related health problems are greatly reduced.

If you’ve never never had an oral cancer examination, there’s no better time to schedule one than this month. When you do, be sure to ask that this examination be made a routine part of all of your future dental check-ups. Make your appointment today!

Dr. Randall Burba (left) and Dr. Stanley Burba (right)

Dr. Randall Burba is an American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry accredited dentist, practicing in Salem, Massachusetts. He considers himself an artist–with teeth and beyond! He often paints, draws and has a passion for woodworking.