expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Laurene K. Duke

Dentist

Dr. Laurene K. Duke is a top Dentist in Bellflower, . With a passion for the field and an unwavering commitment to their specialty, Dr. Laurene K. Duke is an expert in changing the lives of their patients for the better. Through their designated cause and expertise in the field, Dr. Laurene K. Duke is a prime example of a true leader in healthcare. As a leader and expert in their field, Dr. Laurene K. Duke is passionate about enhancing patient quality of life. They embody the values of communication, safety, and trust when dealing directly with patients. In Bellflower, California, Dr. Laurene K. Duke is a true asset to their field and dedicated to the profession of medicine.
Dr. Laurene K. Duke
  • Bellflower, California
  • UCLA
  • Accepting new patients

Are electric toothbrushes any better for the teeth?

Yes, They clean the gum line very well as long as you use them for the 2 minutes as directed. Electric Toothbrushes are excellent for those unable to brush well with a manual READ MORE
Yes, They clean the gum line very well as long as you use them for the 2 minutes as directed. Electric Toothbrushes are excellent for those unable to brush well with a manual toothbrush.

At what age can my little one start brushing her teeth on her own?

I like to let the little ones brush themselves in the morning and advise the parents to brush teeth nightly til about 10 years old.

How should I select my toothpaste?

You want to know the abrasivity of the toothpaste. Whitening toothpastes are very abrasive and wear away enamel on many people leading to brownish discolored teeth when there READ MORE
You want to know the abrasivity of the toothpaste. Whitening toothpastes are very abrasive and wear away enamel on many people leading to brownish discolored teeth when there is little enamel left. We cannot whiten teeth with little enamel. Also, abrasive toothpastes wear the gumline of teeth away. Neither option is good, so do not use whitening toothpastes daily.

For small kids how frequent should dentist visits be?

She should be going at least 2 times per year to familiarize herself with the Dentist and the equipment. The Dentist can help the parents with better brushing skills and find READ MORE
She should be going at least 2 times per year to familiarize herself with the Dentist and the equipment. The Dentist can help the parents with better brushing skills and find any cavities early before pain starts. Baby teeth are really important to the growth of the jaw bone.

My son's teeth are discoloured. Why?

Any dark colored food or juice can discolor teeth if the teeth are not properly cleaned daily. The plaque and biofilm could be picking up the pigments in the foods. He could READ MORE
Any dark colored food or juice can discolor teeth if the teeth are not properly cleaned daily. The plaque and biofilm could be picking up the pigments in the foods. He could also have cavities. See your dentist.

Are OTC products recommended for teeth whitening?

NO! I would not use OTC to whiten routinely, plus it become costly over time. Best to be sure you have no decay, have your Dentist make a special custom tray that you can use READ MORE
NO! I would not use OTC to whiten routinely, plus it become costly over time. Best to be sure you have no decay, have your Dentist make a special custom tray that you can use with special gel for many years . perhaps even using this same soft tray for the rest of your life to whiten. You can get gel refills at your dentist.

Can effects from TMJ ever be reversed?

The muscle tightness can usually be resolved with chiropractic care and muscle work along with your effort in exercising to put the muscles at peace again. It is well worth your READ MORE
The muscle tightness can usually be resolved with chiropractic care and muscle work along with your effort in exercising to put the muscles at peace again. It is well worth your effort to seek care with these professionals. Find one who is well trained in TMJ issues. The tooth damage is a different story. Hopefully it can be replaced with simple resin fillings. Crowns are not always needed.
Good luck!!
Dr Duke