We’d like to introduce you to Delta Dental dentist, Dr. Tannaz Malekzadeh of Malek Periodontics in Glendale.
Periodontist Tannaz Malekzadeh, DMD, affectionately referred to by patients as “Dr. Malek,” practices a full scope of periodontics with expertise ranging from dental implants to cosmetic periodontal surgery and gum grafting.
What made you decide to become a periodontist?
I love that with every patient comes new biology and a different set of needs. Controlling a patient’s inflammation can help improve the health of their entire body. Periodontics involves so many aspects, from microbiology and bone biology to immunology. I enjoy motivating and educating patients so they understand how to maintain good oral health, even after they leave the office.
What is your specialty/area of interest?
Periodontics, including dental implants, cosmetic periodontal surgery and gum grafting.
Do you brush and floss as much as you recommend?
Yes! Probably more than I recommend. I keep floss picks in my car and floss at red lights. I advise my patients to do the same!
What is your favorite flavor toothpaste?
I use mint, but if they made ice cream or peanut butter-flavored toothpaste those would be my first choices!
Electric or manual toothbrush?
I use a manual toothbrush for myself because it allows me more control to implement a certain technique. I advise patients to use an electric toothbrush because of how helpful they can be.
Which celebrity has the best smile?
Dwayne Johnson and Kerry Washington.
If you could tell patients to stop doing one thing, what would it be?
Stop putting off your dental care and needs. Don’t wait for your issue to become an emergency.
What is the best dental advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t rinse after you brush! Leaving the fluoride on your teeth allows it to work fully. You wouldn’t put lotion on your hands and then wash it off right away – it’s the same concept.
What is the best thing about being a Delta Dental dentist?
Through Delta Dental, I can provide the specific care my patients need because they have the dental benefits to allow me to do so.
September is Healthy Aging Month. Are there any special oral health concerns seniors should be aware of?
Yes, dry mouth can be an effect of aging. Drinking water throughout the day, chewing on sugar free gum and using a moisturizing mouth rinse can help.
What is your favorite dental joke?
What do mice use to floss their teeth?
String cheese!
If you were stuck on a desert island, what three items would you bring?
1. Sunscreen
2. A knife
3. Matches
Anything else you’d like to add?
Keeping the mouth healthy will keep the body healthy and keeping the body healthy will keep the mouth healthy. Don’t discount stress reduction, eating a healthy diet and living a healthy lifestyle. These things all affect periodontal disease. If you smoke, the number one life saving thing you can do is quit smoking.
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