Linh Cao-Chan, DDS

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Linh Cao-Chan, DDS Our general and family dental practice is dedicated to taking care of our patients' oral health.

Biting into hard candies or lollipops creates sudden, high-impact force that frequently leads to severe structural damag...
10/16/2026

Biting into hard candies or lollipops creates sudden, high-impact force that frequently leads to severe structural damage to your teeth. As jaws exert dozens of pounds of pressure trying to crunch through rigid sugar, that concentrated force can sheer off outer enamel, snap off tooth corners, or cause deep vertical fractures reaching toward sensitive nerves. Even microscopic hairline cracks formed from crunching hard candy can expand over time, leaving teeth vulnerable to sensitivity, infection, and costly emergency repairs.

Sticky sour candies are the absolute worst for your teeth because they deliver a dangerous double threat of extreme acid...
10/14/2026

Sticky sour candies are the absolute worst for your teeth because they deliver a dangerous double threat of extreme acidity and persistent stickiness. The high acid content—often reaching pH levels as low as vinegar or battery acid—immediately softens and erodes protective tooth enamel on contact. At the same time, their gummy texture lodges deep into the grooves and crevices of molars where saliva cannot easily wash it away. This traps concentrated sugar directly against weakened enamel, allowing cavity-causing bacteria to thrive and feed for hours. If anything, just enjoy this type of candy in moderation!

When choosing Halloween treats, opt for chocolate—especially dark chocolate—because it melts quickly and washes away eas...
10/13/2026

When choosing Halloween treats, opt for chocolate—especially dark chocolate—because it melts quickly and washes away easily without lingering on teeth. Avoid sticky candies like gummies, caramels, and taffy, which cling to enamel crevices and feed cavity-causing bacteria over extended periods. Steer clear of hard candies and sour treats, as prolonged sucking increases sugar exposure while high acidity directly erodes protective enamel. Enjoying sweets immediately after meals leverages increased saliva flow to help rinse away residual sugars naturally.

If you stop wearing your retainer, your teeth can slowly shift back toward their previous positions. When you put the re...
10/08/2026

If you stop wearing your retainer, your teeth can slowly shift back toward their previous positions. When you put the retainer back in, it applies pressure to move your teeth back into alignment, which can cause soreness or tenderness. This is usually a sign that your teeth have shifted, but significant or persistent pain may mean the retainer no longer fits properly. If your retainer feels extremely tight or painful, check with your dentist or orthodontist before continuing to wear it.

Mouthwash alone cannot replace physical brushing and flossing because it lacks the mechanical action required to disrupt...
10/07/2026

Mouthwash alone cannot replace physical brushing and flossing because it lacks the mechanical action required to disrupt and remove sticky dental plaque. Plaque forms a stubborn biofilm on tooth surfaces and between teeth that liquid rinsing simply cannot wash away or dissolve completely. While mouthwash can temporarily freshen breath and help reduce surface bacteria, it leaves behind the trapped food particles and buildup that directly cause tooth decay and gum disease.

Your mouth is connected to the rest of your body, which is why oral health can be an important part of your overall heal...
10/04/2026

Your mouth is connected to the rest of your body, which is why oral health can be an important part of your overall health. Conditions like gum disease involve inflammation and have been associated with other health concerns, including heart disease and diabetes. This doesn’t mean that gum disease directly causes these conditions, but the connections are important enough for researchers and healthcare professionals to keep studying. Taking care of your teeth and gums isn’t just about your smile—it can be another important part of taking care of your overall health!

Pacifiers can be soothing for babies, but prolonged or frequent use may affect the way their teeth and jaw develop. Exte...
10/01/2026

Pacifiers can be soothing for babies, but prolonged or frequent use may affect the way their teeth and jaw develop. Extended pacifier use can contribute to issues like open bite, crossbite, or changes in the position of the front teeth. The risk generally increases the longer the habit continues, especially as permanent teeth begin to develop. If you’re unsure when your child should stop using a pacifier, talk with your child’s dentist for guidance.

Believe it or not, your genes may play a small role in how prone you are to cavities! Genetics can influence things like...
09/29/2026

Believe it or not, your genes may play a small role in how prone you are to cavities! Genetics can influence things like enamel strength, saliva production, and how your teeth develop. However, your oral hygiene, diet, fluoride exposure, and regular dental care also play a major role. Even if cavities run in your family, good daily habits can help protect your smile!

Ever brush your teeth and notice your bad breath returns shortly after? The cause may be bacteria hiding on your tongue,...
09/25/2026

Ever brush your teeth and notice your bad breath returns shortly after? The cause may be bacteria hiding on your tongue, between your teeth, or along the gumline—areas brushing alone may not fully clean. Dry mouth can also contribute because saliva helps wash away food particles and bacteria. Cleaning your tongue, flossing daily, staying hydrated, and maintaining regular dental visits can help keep your breath fresher for longer!

Sugar doesn’t necessarily sit on your teeth for hours, but the effects can last much longer than you might think! When y...
09/24/2026

Sugar doesn’t necessarily sit on your teeth for hours, but the effects can last much longer than you might think! When you eat or drink something sugary, bacteria in your mouth use that sugar to produce acids that attack your tooth enamel. These acid attacks can last for about 20 minutes or longer after eating, especially if you’re frequently snacking throughout the day. Instead of constantly sipping or snacking on sugary foods, try having them with meals and rinse your mouth with water afterward. Your teeth will thank you!

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10110 San Pablo Avenue
El Cerrito, CA
94530

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 5pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 5:30pm
Friday 8:30am - 1pm

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