Wellness Program

Just started a wellness program for women who want to achieve better health and want support while reaching their goals. We will meet once a month for a physical activity such as yoga, walking, hiking, etc. We will work out together and then have some time to talk about our goals and challenges we face meeting them. I am opening this up to any women in the area that are interested. Please email me for more information.   (mylittlelifecoach@gmail.com)

Caring for your Child’s Teeth and Smile

It seems that many of my patients and friends have babies on the way, so I thought it was time to answer some of the most popular questions that I have been asked about "Caring for your Child's Teeth and Smile":


When should I expect my baby’s teeth to come in?

Baby teeth (also called ‘primary’ teeth) can show as early as six months after birth. These teeth will help the baby chew, learn to speak and will save room for the permanent teeth. The baby may act fussy or uncomfortable because the gums around erupting teeth can become sore. 

How can I comfort my baby’s sore gums?

You can rub the gums gently with your finger or give the baby a cool teething ring to chew on. Keeping the gums clean also helps them heal. Use a moist, soft cloth to wipe the gums after meals. 

When will the permanent teeth come in? 

The adult teeth (also called ‘permanent’) will start to erupt around age 6 or 7. By this age, your child should have developed good oral hygiene habits such as brushing with fluoride tooth-paste (just a pea-sized amount is plenty for kids). Sealants are recommended for permanent molars to prevent caries. 

How can I avoid caries from developing in my baby’s teeth?

It first starts with diet; you should limit the amount of sugar-containing drinks your child has -- such as apple juice, sodas, sports drinks, and even milk. Never put your baby to bed with a bottle containing sugary drinks. Visit your dentist to get coaching on developing good oral hygiene habits. 

When should my baby first visit the dentist?

Your baby should visit the dentist after the first tooth comes-in or after their first birthday--whichever comes first. This allows the dentist to check on any possible bad habits, such as thumb-sucking and also show you how to clean your baby’s teeth properly. 


You can learn more about healthy foods for healthy teeth here!

For any dental related questions feel free to ask!

Best Regards, 

Dr. Josh Berd, DDS

Dentist and Educator

San Francisco, California

Greek Yogurt....on what?

Greek Yogurt is an amazing way to literally cut the fat out of most dishes that use mayo or sour cream. The plain greek yogurt is very easily seasoned. Add this to dips instead of sour cream, or put on sandwiches with some spices for flavor and you have an amazing healthy bite that is worth it! Additionally you get more protein and probiotics added to your diet, now how cool is that!!
TRY IT!

Nutrition, Exercise and Cleaner Teeth for a Healthier Mind and Body

The first step to health is regular exercise. I know we’ve all tried this before, so this time let's get CREATIVE - instead of lifting weights or investing in that expensive gym membership, create a regimen of stretching in the morning, enroll in a dance or rock climbing class, and take up a new group sport (soccer anyone?). Here are two great tips that have worked for me: taking the stairs instead of the elevator and biking to work.

The second step is getting a good night’s rest. Studies have shown that people who lack sleep are cranky and unpleasant, but also have an increased risk for high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes and underperforming at work. RELAXATION is key to restful sleep. We carry lots of tension in our lower backs and necks, this tension can turn into clenching or grinding of teeth, especially at night. If you’re waking up feeling unrested or have a sore jaw muscle, you could be suffering from a dental condition called bruxism. A nightguard can help. This comfortable appliance can be very effective in helping you get a good night’s rest.

The third step is to eat better. Scientists have shown that those who eat better, live longer. Let’s cut out the refined sugars - those in sodas and sweets - because these have been associated with tumors, obesity and diabetes. Eat the COLORED stuff: red fruits, orange vegetables, green teas, and brown nuts contain fiber, vitamins and antioxidants. These will give you lasting energy throughout your day. 

The fourth step is cleaner teeth. SMILE! Psychologists have shown that the simple act of smiling - even if it is pretend - makes a person feel truly happier. The smile is a social signal for welcoming, friendliness, and humor. We all know that brushing, flossing, rinsing and 6-month dental cleanings are important to maintain a healthy smile. But doing so can sometimes be a chore. Dental neglect resulting in bad breath, gum disease and tooth decay can negatively affect your smile. 

You can learn more about healthy foods for healthy teeth here!

For any questions about dental hygiene or healthy foods, feel free to ask!

Best Regards, 

Dr. Josh Berd, DDS

Dentist and Educator

San Francisco, California

Are there Healthy Alternatives to Dental Veneers?

What are the main reasons for getting teeth veneers? 

In the world of dentistry, Veneers are mostly done for purely cosmetic reasons – they are an elective treatment. To most patients that ask me if they ‘need’ veneers, as a doctor, my answer is a simple “No.” However, as cosmetic dentist, I understand and oblige when a patients ‘wants’ veneers for personal reasons. I tell patients that porcelain veneers are a conservative dental procedure that restores the appearance of discolored, fractured or misshaped teeth. The procedure consists of bonding a thin piece of ceramic on to the surface of teeth. In many case the enamel surface (typically only 0.5mm) of the teeth is lightly prepared to eliminate the stain or fracture and accept the veneer. Veneers can drastically enhance the appearance of one’s smile.

Are there procedures that can improve natural teeth, eliminating the need for veneers? 

In dentistry, there is no ‘need’ for veneers, it is a matter of what the patient ‘wants’. Cosmetic enhancements that may substitute a veneer procedure may include; teeth whitening to eliminate stain; cosmetic bonding to enhance the shape of small, gapped or fractured teeth; and/or replacing old fillings with new, more cosmetic ones. 

There have been cases in my private practice - where after discussing options - the patient elected to have cosmetic bonding rather than veneers. Cosmetic bonding is a procedure where resin-composite material is sculpted over stained, fractured or misshaped parts of teeth. Bonding is more conservative than veneers. 

What procedures can result in veneer-perfect natural teeth?

An expertly crafted cosmetic bonding procedure, especially in combination with teeth whitening can create a very cosmetic result. Sharp or uneven edges can be shaped and smoothed by a conservative procedure called 'enamelplasty'. Air-abrasion procedure can removed tenacious surface stain to whiten the surface of teeth.  

What oral care products or habits would you recommend for gorgeous natural teeth?

Colgate Total or Crest Pro-Health toothpaste along with a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss used after meals will help reduce build-up of plaque and stain. Stain actually adheres more to teeth covered in plaque. Foods such as coffee, tea and red wine can stain, especially after prolonged use. Helpful hint: drink water after using coffee, tea or red wine. Water helps hydrate the gums and rinse away stain before it sets in.

What are the drawbacks to veneers?

Veneers are a non-reversible procedure. The cost can range from $900-$1500 per veneer. They require the same care that regular teeth do - flossing and brushing twice a day for 2 minutes. People with veneers must pay particular attention to biting into hard foods, such as sourdough breads and chocolate. Stress from hard foods, nail-biting, or clenching and bruxing of teeth can fracture porcelain veneers. I recommend all patients with veneers to wear a protective occlusal guard at night (also know as night-guard). Regular dental visits for professional cleanings and check-ups are highly recommended to ensure longevity and health of veneers.

Would you recommend veneers instead of braces or other teeth straightening methods? 

If a patient is happy with the natural shape, size, color and look of their teeth, I would not recommend veneers. However, veneers may be a good solution for a patient with peg-laterals (genetically small, peg-shaped teeth), discolored or fractured teeth (conditions that cannot be fixed by braces). To straighten gapped or crowded teeth with braces can take anywhere from 8 months to 2 years. Veneers can accomplish this in just two visits. The advantage of braces, is that the occlusion (bite) can be improved and the natural tooth structure is preserved. Conserving natural healthy tooth structure is the goal of dentists focused on oral health. The question of veneers or brace ultimately depends on the patients wishes.

Check out 5 Tips to Make a Great First Impression here!

For any questions about oral hygiene or healthy foods, feel free to ask!

Best Regards, 

Dr. Josh Berd, DDS

Dentist and Educator

San Francisco, California

Why are humans the only animals to take meticulous care of their teeth?

While browsing Reddit the other day I came across a question that left me stumped. 'Why are humans the only animals to take meticulous care of their teeth?' I thought about all the pets I’ve owned. Max, my golden retriever, never cleaned his canines...although he did have a toothbrush chew-toy. My cat, Stella, spent hours grooming her fur but never paid particular attention to her teeth. So how did we bipeds evolve this obsession with oral hygiene?

Firstly, it’s not exactly true that other animals neglect their pearly whites. Some animals use trees, roots, or rocks to sharpen their teeth and keep them in working condition. Beavers for example, have teeth that grow continuously and must be filed down by gnawing on wood.  Animals also have special enzymes in their saliva that are better able to destroy cavity-causing bacteria.

Secondly, humans eat more sugary food than any other animal. Sugar is made of carbohydrates, a delicacy for bacteria that live in the mouth. Whether carnivores or herbivores, no other animals enjoys as many sweets as we do. It’s not often that you see a lion eating a candy apple at a carnival fair or enjoying a Coke and popcorn at the movie theater.

Finally, the lifespan of humans is much longer than most other animals. If our teeth are to last us close to a century, we better do our best to keep them in tip top shape.  We humans just have to bite the bullet and keep our teeth pristine. Visit your dentist every six months for cleanings to ensure a life-long healthy smile! 

by Helen

*Guest blogger Helen is a dental student at the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry in San Francisco. 

"iPad in the Clinic" Dr. Berd featured in The Progressive Dentist Magazine

Dr. Josh Berd's recent article titled 'Mobile Apps in Clinical Practice' has been featured in the Progressive Dental Magazine! This publication focuses on ways to enhance patient-doctor communication so that patients can fully understand their treatment plans. 

Here is an excerpt: "The whole world is going mobile. Mobile technologies have become a familiar part of people’s lives. Phones and computers are now pocket-sized and can connect us to a variety of technology, to our friends, family and even to patients. In fact, as I write this, I am also managing my next week’s work schedule from my iPhone and texting patients to confirm their appointments. New developments in mobile technology have allowed dentists to bring a rich variety of dental-related mobile apps into their office."

For any questions about using mobile apps in the dental office feel free to ask!

Best Regards, 

Dr. Josh Berd, DDS

Dentist and Educator

San Francisco, California