A Nice Person Like You

Nice People

"A nice person like you knows nice people, so send us your friends!"  Building a relationship with a patient is more than just doing clinical dentistry.  We want to restore the optimal 

function

 and appearance of a patient's smile AND get to know them to engage them in attaining a successful result.  That's because we are sincerely interested in them as human beings. Through our interaction with our patients they become friends, sharing what is new in their life. This creates energy in our interpersonal relationships and that energy leads to trust. Nice people DO know nice people, and we would like to know them too!

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,  

Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics

(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com

5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

Take the edge off with nitrous oxide

Relax, and Take the Edge Off

Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas) is used in dentistry as an adjunct to anesthesia.  It is a gas you can breathe through a mask, colorless, with a slight smell, and works quickly and leaves the body just as quickly.  It is not an anesthetic--it is an analgesic, because it raises your pain threshold in addition to creating relaxation or a pleasurable feeling.  The device in our office is a fail-safe device, allowing a gas mixture that is always at lease 70% oxygen. It is very safe and has no ill effects on the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys or brain. Usually nitrous oxide delivery is titrated--gradually increased until a comfortable level is reached, so that oversedation is not a problem. It can be just enough to "take the edge off " and make your dental experience more manageable.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

US Periodontal Health Assessment Update

Periodontal Disease at an Alarming Rate 

The American Academy of Peridontology (AAP) was recently invited to provide testimony to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Division of Oral Health (CDCDOH) as part of the strategic planning prcess for 2011 through 2014. The goal is to develop a surveillance program to determine the incidence and prevalence of periodontal disease in the US population.  An initial study indicates that the incidence of periodontal disease may be two to three times higher than previous estimates.  This is important because of the growing body of research that links periodontal disease to other disease states, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The testimony recommends promoting public awareness of periodontal disease prevalence in the US and the importance of periodontal health in achieving overall health. 

Source: www.jiacd.com

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

The Importance of Being a Board Certified Prosthodontist

Maintain Regular Cleanings and Exams 

The just published Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry (JPD) Oct., 2011, includes its annual review of scientific literature.  In the implant section, 2010 literature is referenced that shows that periimplantitis (inflammation around implants with bleeding or suppuration on probing, probing depth of more than 5mm or progressive bone loss) is typically a condition of late onset, meaning can occur more than 5 years after implant placement.  Since these infections can occur after many successful years of service, it is clearly important to maintain a regular regimen of dental cleanings and examinations long after placement!

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

Oral Cancer Demographics and Risk Factors

Smoking Increase Risk 37-Fold 

In the US there are an estimated 36,450 new cases of oral cancer diagnosed each year, 25,420 in men and 11,120 in women.  Nearly 7,880 people die of cancer of the oral cavity and pharynx each year.  The average age for diagnosis is 62 years and 1.02% of people born today will be diagnosed with it during their lifetime.

Approximately 90% of oral cancer is on the surface and called squamous cell carcinoma.  Traditional risk factors are tobacco and alcohol.  When someone smokes and drinks, their risk is increased 37-fold.  Higher risk sites include the tongue and floor of the mouth.  Cancer of gum tissues accounts for about 10% of all oral cancers.

Although the average age for diagnosis is 62 years, a rapidly growing number of younger patients without traditional risk factors are being diagnosed with HPV- related tumors of the tonsils and base of the tongue.

Source: AAOMS Surgical Update, Vol 24, 1

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

Missing Teeth: The Demographics

80 Million People are Missing at Least One Tooth

Today there are 25 million people in this country who have no teeth, and that number will increase to 38 million in  2020. As age increases, so does the prevalence of edentulism (no teeth):  22% at age 45, 36% at age 55, 42% at age 65, and 56% at age 75.  In addition, another 80 million people are missing at least one or some of their teeth. The greatest risk factors are untreated periodontal disease, asthma, diabetes, dementia, cancer and heart disease.  An individual with heart disease is 4 times more likely to be edentulous than with no heart disease. Dr. Tupac, a Board Certified Prosthodontist, has solutions for missing teeth.  Dental implants are disease resistant, preserve bone and conserve remaining teeth. Find more at www.drtupac.com

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

Root Canal vs. Dental Implant?

Dark Teeth May Be a Sign of Trauma 

A single dark front tooth is a common occurrence, most often the result of trauma. The discoloration can develop 1 to 20 years after the trauma, and the tooth may be either vital or non-vital.  It may or may not require, or have had, root canal therapy. A tooth can also darken after root canal therapy.The most conservative method of recapturing the tooth's original color is by bleaching, which may be done either externally or internally, or both. If fillings need to be replaced, they may be done in a lighter color. If the tooth requires a veneer or crown or cap, it can be done to match the adjacent, natural teeth. We treat dark teeth with all of the modalities available, and are happy to discuss all treatment options for patients needing this kind of help.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

Using Saliva to Detect Systemic Cancer

Pancreatic Cancer May be Detected

UCLA Professor Dr. David Wong reports that pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, the most common pancreatic cancer and the most deadly of all cancers, may be detected in its early stages by changes in molecular signatures.

"Do you suffer from badbreath?" 

By analyzing the altered gene expression, his team identified biomarkers in saliva that distinguish pancreatic cancer patients and non-cancer patients. He has also found breast, lung, gastric and ovarian cancers to have highly discriminatory salivary biomarkers.

The implications for furthering the understanding of the association between and systemic health are immense. Saliva collection is non-invasive, non-painful and non-embarrassing and is an ideal biofluid for diagnostis of the onset, progression and therapeutic responsiveness of oral and systemic disease. 

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

Coalition for Oral Health for the Aging

Compendium reported a survey conducted by the Coalition for Oral Health for the
Aging (www.micoha.org). 

As patients age, and their manual dexterity and cognitive skills decline, maintaining oral health becomes more of a challenge.

It focused on how to prepare aging patients for their future decline in oral care. Preparing for the future involves educating patients before their retirement regarding the benefits of routine care visits in the prevention of problems.

The effects of increased use of prescription medications on oral health need to be understood.  The truths vs myths of aging teeth need to be discussed.

 Dental Treatment Planning for the Future 

Preparing for the future includes dental treatment planning for 50 to 70 year of age for restorative work, when they are healthy and able to have it completed, that will withstand the total failure of oral care that can occur as part of the aging process. By focusing on prevention, patients need an oral hygiene protocol of daily oral care, fluoride application and regular professional cleanings. In the elderly population, the primary goals of oral health include removal of infection and strategic preservation of what can be restored and maintained.  A stable bite and a focus on function are important to ensure the ability to have a healthy diet.

To read about the survey in greater detail, see Compendium, Feb 2013, vol 34, no 2, pp150-151, or go to www.dentalaegis.com/cced

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
 Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

Porcelain Veneers for Fractured Teeth

Veneers can Restore Your Smile 

Fall and break your teeth and they need to be protected!  Porcelain veneers are a conservative method of covering and sealing cracks and fissures while restoring teeth in a beautiful manner.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

Time for a New Front Tooth?

Replacing an Old Crown Can Enhance Your Mood

Replacing that old crown on your front tooth with today's more advanced dental laboratory technology can make all the difference in the world in how you look, smile, and feel about yourself.  With our in-house laboratory, we can create whichever restorative solution is best for your dental needs. As a Board Certified Prosthodontist, Dr. Tupac welcomes the opportunity to help you! 

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

Tips for Denture Care

Denture Maintenance

Careful daily removal of the bacterial and fungal biofilm present in the mouth and on complete dentures is important to minimize denture inflammation (stomatitis) and to help contribute to good oral and general health.  

Patients who wear dentures should do the following:  

1.  daily cleansing by soaking is  superior to denture creams and pastes and less abrasive; 

2.  denture cleansers should only be used outside the mouth;  

3.  dentures should be thoroughly rinsed after cleaning before reinsertion into the mouth;

4.  dentures should never be placed in boiling water, because they will warp;

5.  dentures can be soaked in bleach solutions but only for 10 minutes or less.  

Your local Board Certified Prosthodontist (denture specialist) can help you with your dentures.  

Source:  evidence-based guidelines from the American College of Prosthodontists as commissioned by the American Dental Association

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

Dramatic Decline in Cancer Deaths

Cancer Rates Reach New Milestone in the U.S.

Cancer mortality rates have reached a new milestone in the United States--deaths from cancer have dropped 20% since their peak in 1991, according to the American Cancer Society.

Credit for the dramatic decrease in colorectal, female breast, and prostate cancer are due to early detection and treatment.  Declines in lung cancer deaths can be attributed to reductions in smoking. Half of the estimated new cases of cancer for today's male population are expected to be found in the prostate, lung and bronchus, and colorectum.  The same is estimated for women, with half of new cases expected to be involving breast, lung and bronchus and colorectum.
Statistics for the ten leading cancer types for the estimated new cancer cases can be found at www.chemotherapyadvisor.com

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (Map)

NobelGuide for the Upper Jaw

The Nobel Treatment 

NobelGuide is a treatment procedure which allows a patient to be treated from no teeth to a fixed bridge of teeth in one appointment.  Starting from wearing an upper full denture, this patient had a CT Scan of his upper jaw. By applying NobelGuide Procera software to the scan, the anatomy of his upper jawbone was visualized in three dimensions, allowing virtual placement of dental implants with a computer program. 

Planning and Implant Placement

In addition to planning implant placement, the computer program facilitated creation of a clear surgical guide, to be used for "flapless" implant placement. The temporary fixed bridge was fabricated in advance of the surgery also, so the bridge was placed at the same time as the implants.  This technique is predictable because the planning has revealed the anatomy under the soft tissue.  The resulting bridge enables immediate function with a beautiful esthetic result.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

Lung Problems and Lupus Sufferers

According to the Johns Hopkins Lupus Center, 50% of people with lupus will experience lung issues during the course of their disease. Although, the underlying connective tissue disease is the root cause of lupus-related lung problems, the exact mechanism differs for each of the most common conditions:

• pleuritis (pleurisy)--inflammation and fluid buildup between the lungs and chest wall, causing pain
• pneumonitis--inflammation of the lung tissue itself caused by an infection
• pulmonary emboli (blood clots)
• other kinds of problems having to do with the blood pressure of lung vessels

The two most common symptoms are shortness of breath and pain with breathing.  Treatment centers around the specific lung problem.

More information is available at:  www.lupus.org

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

S-T-R-E-T-C-H!!!

Many of us have strenuous  jobs.  Dentistry is one of them.  For the last 30 years, I have found considerable benefit from treatment by chiropractors.

They believe there are five health-related components of physical fitness:

• muscular strength
• muscular endurance
• cardiorespiratory endurance
• body composition
• flexibility

Flexibility is the ability to move your joints and muscles through a normal range of motion, and a regular flexibility and stretching program has the following benefits:

• increased circulation to muscles, nourishing them, eliminating waste products and decreasing recovery time after injury
• improved posture with loose muscles and less discomfort
• better coordination due to improved range of motion to maximize balance and mobility
• stress relief, because loose muscles are less likely to spasm during periods of tension

Several health-related web sites have simple stretching programs available.  Finding a routine that best fits your lifestyle can make you feel better and younger!


Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

Serious Dental Problems?

Multiple Missing Teeth, What to Do?

Dr. Robert Tupac, a Board Certified Prosthodontists, manages the most complex dental restorations.  Loss of natural teeth, whether in an accident or as part of the natural aging process, can be traumatic and affect your outlook on life.  Simple pleasures--like smiling or going out to eat--become a source of stress or embarrassment.  There are many options if you have lost some or all of your teeth.  Crowns, bridges and full or partial dentures are just some of the procedures that can help you regain your smile, and improve your appearance and self confidence.  

Another option is dental implants, a more permanent solution.  A healthy smile is among the top aspects of a person's appearance that impacts self-esteem.  With his advanced training, Dr. Tupac can improve your appearance by fixing broken, discolored or misshapen teeth and associated structures.  Whether you need to replace one tooth or many, Dr. Tupac will work with you through every step of the way, from initial consultation through followup care.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

Old Enough for a Dental Implant?

What is the minimum age for a dental implant?  

This is especially important for boys and girls who have congenitally missing teeth.  Dental implants should not be placed until after skeletal growth is complete.   Once placed, an implant and the bone which surrounds it do not change, so we don't want the jaws and teeth around the implants to continue to develop.  In general, boys mature skeletally between the ages of 17 and 19, girls between 16 and 18.  

How do you really tell?  

A "carpal index", or wrist film (X-ray), can be taken and evaluated by a radiologist.  The film will tell if the bones of the wrist (especially the adductor sesamoid) are completely formed (ossified), the growth (epiphyseal diaphyseal) centers of the fingers (proximal, middle and distal phalanges) are fused and the growth (epiphyseal diaphyseal) center of the radius is fused.  These factors suggest completion of skeletal growth.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

Denture Stomatitis and Fungal Infections

Denture stomatitis is a common disorder affecting denture wearers.  It is characterized as inflammation and redness of the tissues covered by the denture.  It is often asymptomatic; only a minority of sufferers experience pain, itching or burning.  It is primarily identified during a dental examination as the presence of inflammation and swelling under the denture.  It is associated with poor denture fit, increased age of the patient, increased age of the denture, continuous wearing of the denture and poor denture hygiene.  

Bacteria and fungi (primarily Candida Albicans) are likely included.  Patients can see it themselves when their tissues are fiery red under the denture and the redness follows the outline of their denture.  Not removing dentures at night while sleeping allows a biofilm of bacteria to colonize on the inside denture surface without being properly removed.  Treatment of the acute phase requires antifungal medications.  Rapid recurrence of the condition will occur unless the denture is properly disinfected and thereafter a daily denture hygiene regimen of removing the dentures and soaking them in a commercial disinfectant solution or diluted sodium hypochlorite.  Routine follow-up visits to assess that the denture maintains proper fit and function is important in reducing the risk for developing stomatitis.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

Power Smoothies

How to get your fruits and vegetables all in one day!

The recommended dietary requirements of at least five servings of fruits and vegetables every day is something we don't always fulfill.

Our daughter came home one time and described a smoothie she had that she said was delicious.  It combined almond milk, berries and spinach!

It turns out that combining fruits such as berries and apples, nuts, vegetables such as spinach, cucumber, celery and carrots, and wheat germ and non-fat yogurt, with honey can create a tasty and nutritious meal and help meet your dietary requirements! Who said nutrition had to be difficult?

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

The Best Thing About Dental Implants

Is It Time for a New Set of Dentures?

The bone around tooth roots is a special kind of bone: alveolar bone. It receives stimulation from the roots of the teeth it encloses. Alveolar bone is healthy unless subject to inflammation from periodontal (gum) disease, which cause it to recede, or if the forces of chewing are greater than the capacity of the bone to withstand. The one universal truth about alveolar bone is that it resorbs (shrinks) when teeth are removed, because it loses its stimulation.

The best thing about dental implants is that they preserve bone. Placed as soon as possible after tooth loss, the implants stimulate bone in the same way that natural tooth roots used to. This means that possible dental implants should ideally be included in treatment planning before teeth are removed. A CT Scan can be used with dental imaging software to determine the exact location, size and number of implants.

By preserving bone, dental implants counteract the results of tooth loss and aging, and help control facial changes. They give you the security of knowing things will stay in place when you eat, talk and smile. They contribute to your comfort, quality of life, and self esteem.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

Why Dentures Need Proper Placement

When teeth are removed, our jawbone begins a continuous, lifelong process of resorption, or shrinkage.  The pressure from dentures on gum tissues also cause shrinkage, since gum tissues were never intended to withstand chewing forces.  Dentures that don't fit properly cause even greater and more rapid shrinkage.  How do you know when it is time to get a new set of dentures?

If you're like most people, you'll find high quality, well-fitting dentures restores your youthful appearance, allows you to eat most of the foods that you love, helps you feel better about yourself, eliminates embarrassment, enables you to speak more clearly and may even help with digestion!

A set of dentures is not meant to last forever because your denture was made to fit the original shape of your oral anatomy and that shape changes as the bone and gums underneath recede.  Often you don't notice the gradual shrinkage that causes them to loosen and become unstable, affecting you in a number of different ways.  If your denture slips and moves, if words are difficult to form, if you can't chew as easily as before, or if lack of facial support has given you the collapsed "denture look",  then it's time to get your smile back with a new set of dentures.  The new set will make you look better and feel younger, speak more clearly and enhance your chewing ability.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

Alcohol-Free Chlorhexidine Mouthrinse

Chlorhexidine mouthrinse is a prescription rinse that specifically attacks the bacteria that cause gum inflammation, and is commonly used in patients with periodontal conditions.

A study by Todkar compared the efficacy of alcohol-free chlorhexidine mouthrinse, chlorhexidine containing alcohol and a placebo of water in terms of controlling gingival plaque and reduction of gingival inflammation in patients with gingivitis.

Measurements were made at the beginning, after 14 days and after 28 days.
The study concluded that the alcohol-free rinse was as effective as the one containing alcohol in controlling plaque and reducing gingival inflammation, and can be recommended for periodontal patients, especially those for whom the use of alcohol may lead to side effects.

Reported in: Dentistry Today, Feb., 2013, from Oral Health & Preventive Dentistry, Fall 2012, vol 10, issue 3, pp 291-296.


Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

Heart Attack Cause and Prevention

What you need to control

There are major risk factors for a heart attack that you can control:

• Smoking:  quit or cut back
• High blood pressure:  your doctor can prescribe medicine to
  keep it under control
• High cholesterol:  medication, a diet low in saturated fats,
  trans fat, cholesterol, sodium and added sugars
• Overweight or obesity:  lose unwanted pounds
• Diabetes:  control blood sugar with medication and diet
• Lack of physical activity:  become as active as possible

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

Garlic VS Milk

How to prevent garlic breath with milk?

According to research noted by ScienceDaily, a study in the Journal of Food Science published by the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) found that drinking milk while eating garlic-heavy food can reduce the bad breath associated with garlic consumption.

They found fat-free and whole milk lowered the concentration of odor-emitting compounds from garlic both in the nose and mouth.

For further details, go to:  www.sciencedaily.com/releases


Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

Osseointegration Study Club

Osseointegration Study Club of Japan meeting

www.facebook.com/OJOsseointegrationStudyClubOfJapan

Robert Tupac participated in the 25th anniversary meeting of the Osseointegration Study Club of Southern California and Osseointegration Study Club of Japan meeting. A selection of nationally and internationally known presenters focused on the parameters of minimally invasive to total arch regeneration and the latest research on implant surgery and loading. Selected topics included clinical practice of minimally invasive implant dentistry, minimally invasive sinus augmentation procedures, CAD/CAM zirconia abutments, three dimensional bone augmentation, long term clinical results of the All-on-Four concept, experimental determination of peri-implant mucosal stability and its interpretation, the benefits of reduced diameter abutments and implant/soft tissue connection, and the future of implant dentistry. 

With 25 years of experience with implant placement and prosthetics, Dr. Tupac has witnessed the evolution of implant design and surgical technique and prosthetic designs and restorative approaches. These issues affect the short and long term realities of implant restorations, their maintenance and the prevalence and management of complications support for a screw retained provisional fixed bridge placed at the same time the implants are placed. The technique may also be performed at the same time natural teeth are extracted.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

What Modern Dental Technology Can Do In a Single Visit

NobelBiocare and Procera Technology

We just checked a patient who had her remaining lower teeth extracted five days ago and four
implants placed and we converted her lower denture to a provisional fixed bridge. She had walked in with failing teeth and a partial and walked out with implants and a fixed bridge, in a single visit. This is a service called All-0n-4, as described on our website and done with NobelBiocare implants and Procera technology. 

Kim was born with a cleft palette and lip. Up until she was 38 years old, she suffered from repeat infections of the sinuses, gums and tissue. It took the right team of people orechetrated by her Prothodontist, to make all of the difference in Kim's dental health.

Kim's story is a good example of why patients go to a Prosthodontist. Prosthodontics is one of nine dental specialties recognized by the Dentist industry.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

Happy 100th Full-Arch Dental Implant Placement

Beneficial Success!!

Dr. Robert Tupac celebrated the placement of his 100th full-arch implant supported full arch prosthesis. 

"While some dental implant details and prosthetic techniques have changed since the first of these in 1986, what remains the same is the beauty of implant restorations. They are tremendously successful and are the best choice for patients for replacing missing teeth. The greatest benefit for patients is that the implants help retain their jawbone. Implant prostheses are a tried and true method for restoring comfort, function and appearance, and give patients the self-esteem they had with their natural teeth." 

As Bakersfield's only full time Board Certified Prosthodontist, Dr. Tupac provides a complete range of implant therapy.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

How Prosthodontists Are Like Quarterbacks

Many like to think of Prosthodontists are the "quarterback" of a dental treatment plan. They regularly lead teams of general dentists, specialist and other health professionals to develop solutions to your dental needs. Prosthodontics is the dental specialty pertaining to the diagnosis, treatment planning, rehabilitation and maintenance of the oral function, comfort, appearance and health of patients with clinical conditions associated with missing or deficient teeth and/or oral and maxillofacial tissues using biocompatible substitutes.

Specializes in the esthetic (cosmetic) restoration and replacement of teeth. Receives three to four years of additional training after dental school.

Restores optimum appearance and function to your smile. The treatment planning and restoration of implants, (TMJ and TMD), and rehabilitation of occlusion with prostheses all fall under the field of prosthodontics. Dr. Robert G. Tupac spent ten years on the Board of Directors of the American College of Prosthodontists.  In 1981, Dr. Tupac passed the exam to become a Board Certified Prosthhodontist. To this date, there are only about three thousand Board Certified Prosthodontists in the world which gives you an idea of how important and exclusive this specialty designation is.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

Trained in emergency preparedness by the CDA

First Responder

Robert Tupac, DDS, FACP, was trained as a first responder for community disaster emergency preparedness at the annual California Dental Association Convention in Anaheim, California. As a health care provider, Dr. Tupac is one of several dentists prepared to offer his services in the event they are needed at the local level.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

NobelBiocare Technology Workshop Participant

Extensive Experience in Restorative Procedures

Robert Tupac participated in a removable implant overdenture lecture and hands-on workshop at the NobelBiocare headquarters in Yorba Linda, California. Dr. Sam Strong, in his presentation of removable implant treatment for the fully edentulous patient discussed pre-surgical considerations and prosthetic therapy, implant integration period therapy and guidelines for bar retained and attachment retained overdentures. Dr. Tupac's extensive experience with these restorative options with multiple implant systems gives patients the ability to be managed and maintained even with implant systems that are no longer in current use. His in-house laboratory concentrates on technical precision and individual attention to patient's needs and desires.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

How Treating a Tooth is like Building a House

Healthy Foundation Makes a Strong House

The goal of root canal therapy is to prevent and eliminate infection at the apex (tip) of the root
of the tooth. Then what? Treating a tooth is like building a house. A root canal ensures the foundation is healthy, but the structure on top must be properly constructed.

Many classical studies show that the restoration of the top of the tooth is essential to seal the tooth and prevent root canal re-infection. Greater success is observed in teeth restored with permanent restorations within 2 months of completion of the root canal treatment. Crowns are considered the restoration of choice for endodontically treated posterior teeth. In fact, statistics show root canal treated teeth not crowned are lost at a rate 6 times greater than teeth crowned after root canal therapy.

The thing to remember, then, is that even though the root canal therapy may get you out of pain, treatment isn't finished until the tooth is restored permanently.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

How Do You Know You're Having A Heart Attack?

How heart attacks develope

Heart attacks are a leading killer of men and
women in the United States. They occur when
the flow of oxygen-rich blood to a section of
heart muscle suddenly becomes blocked.
Typically,  coronary artery disease involves
a buildup of plaque inside the arteries over time,
and when an area of plaque breaks open, a
blood clot forms that can block blood flow in
the artery.  If the blockage isn't treated quickly,
the portion of heart muscle fed by the artery
begins to die.

Treatment works best at the earliest sign of
symptoms to limit damage to the heart.

Symptoms include:

• Chest pain or discomfort in the center or left side of the chest that often lasts for more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back.  It can feel like pressure, squeezing, or fullness and can be mild or severe.  It can feel like nausea or heartburn.
• Upper body discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or upper part of the stomach.
• Shortness of breath, with o before chest discomfort.
• Nausea, vomiting, light-headedness or sudden dizziness, or breaking out in a cold sweat.
• Sleep problems, fatigue, or lack of energy.

Signs and symptoms can develop suddenly or sometimes slowly (over hours, days or weeks) and quick treatment is the key to the best recovery.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Dentistry (CPR) Approved

CPR and AED Certified Staff

Robert Tupac and all of his office personnel 
have been trained in advanced CPR/AED (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation/Automatic External Defibrillator) for the Professional Responder and Health Care Industry as certified by the American Red Cross. His office has an automatic defibrillator available for emergency use. His surgical suite features an array of vital signs monitoring equipment, as well as oxygen and nitrous oxide delivery systems. Dr. Tupac also offers the availability of a physician anesthesiologist for intravenous sedation during restorative dentistry or implant surgery.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)