Why Veneers Might Be Your Smile’s New Best Friend

By Dr. Junho Choi

Here’s the thing—your teeth are kind of like a white t-shirt. One wrong move (hello, coffee, red wine, or years of life in general), and suddenly it’s not looking so fresh. I can’t tell you how many patients come into my Palm Desert office thinking they’re stuck with stained, uneven, or just plain tired-looking teeth. But I’m here to tell you: You’re not stuck. And one of my favorite secret weapons? Veneers.

Yep, dental veneers. These thin little porcelain shells are basically the Hollywood stylists of the dental world. They cover discoloration, smooth over chips, close gaps, and turn “meh” smiles into “wow, who is that?” moments.

I recently had a patient who told me she was tired of whitening strips that never worked and lipstick tricks that just emphasized the problem. Her teeth weren’t unhealthy—they just looked worn, yellowed, and uneven from years of wear. We placed custom porcelain veneers, and I kid you not, she walked out with the kind of smile that makes you want to update every photo you’ve ever taken.

Here’s what makes veneers such a game-changer:

• They’re customized just for you—color, shape, everything.
• They’re stain-resistant (bring on the coffee- yes- that is me talking about coffee again!).
• They fix all kinds of cosmetic concerns—discoloration, small gaps, misshapen teeth—you name it.
• And the best part? They look natural.

If you’ve been thinking about a smile refresh, or if you’re just tired of hiding your teeth in photos, let’s chat. We’ll sit down, talk about your goals, and I’ll walk you through what veneers could do for your smile.

Because everyone deserves to love what they see in the mirror—and if veneers can help get you there, I’m all in.

Looking forward to seeing you at the studio,
– Dr. Junho Choi

Dental Implants 101: Essential Care Tips

By Dr. Junho Choi 

Dental implants are one of the best investments you can make for your smile.

They look natural, feel strong, and let you eat, speak, and live with confidence—no slipping, no clicking, and no awkward napkin-covering during dinner. But like any great investment (think skincare, not crypto), they do require a little upkeep. Implants are low-maintenance, not no-maintenance—and a few smart habits can keep your smile looking and functioning beautifully for years to come.

Why Dental Implant Maintenance Matters

Dental implants are strong, durable, and incredibly lifelike. But they rely on healthy gums and bones to stay that way. Poor hygiene can lead to peri-implantitis—a fancy word for inflammation and infection around the implant. It’s simple- Clean mouth, happy implant. Ignore it, and you risk the very thing you invested in.

Here’s My Daily Implant Care Checklist

Here’s how I recommend keeping those implants in top shape:

• Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush.
• Floss daily, using implant-specific floss or a water flosser to get around the implant.
• Use a non-abrasive toothpaste (skip the charcoal and extreme whitening stuff).
• Rinse with antimicrobial mouthwash to fight bacteria buildup.
• Stay hydrated—dry mouth isn’t implant-friendly.
• Schedule professional cleanings every 6 months (minimum!) with a dentist who knows their implants. Hint: that’s me.

Can Coffee and Tea Stain Dental Implants?

Coffee lovers- rest assured, I will never suggest giving up your morning brew- tobacco, yes- coffee, never. And the same goes for tea. If you’re like me and can’t start the day without coffee, just remember—coffee can stain natural teeth and implants alike. While implants resist cavities, they’re not stain-proof, especially around the crown material and gumline.

Here’s how I protect my smile (and yours):

• Brush after your morning coffee to reduce staining.
• Drink water after each cup to neutralize acids.
• Use a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching implant surfaces.

No need to give up your brew—just show your implants the same love I show a latte.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

With the right care, dental implants can last 20 years or more—and in many cases, a lifetime. But here’s the catch: they only last that long if you treat them right. That means no skipping cleanings, no brushing “whenever,” and no assuming they’re invincible.

Implants are strong—but they still rely on healthy gums and bones. Think of them like a luxury car: high performance, long-lasting, but not maintenance-free.

Remember- Your Implants Deserve the VIP Treatment

You made a smart move by getting implants—now protect that smile. Whether you’re a flossing pro or haven’t seen a dental chair since Netflix still mailed DVDs., let’s make sure everything is on track. Book your dental implant check-up at our Palm Desert office today. Your future self (and your smile) will thank you.

Looking forward to seeing you at the studio,
– Dr. Junho Choi

Let’s Talk About Bad Breath

By Dr. Junho Choi

Let’s talk about something no one wants to admit they have—but everyone definitely does. Bad breath (aka halitosis) is something we’ve all had at some point—usually first thing in the morning, when even your dog turns away. But if your breath has been clearing rooms lately, it might be time we had a little chat.

Bad breath isn’t always a hygiene crime. Sometimes it’s your body just being human. Overnight, your saliva takes a nap, bacteria throw a party on your tongue, and by morning, your mouth smells like it’s been on an all-garlic diet.

What Causes It?

Aside from the usual suspects like onions, garlic, and “forgot-to-brush and floss” moments, there are a few sneaky contributors:

• Dry mouth from mouth breathing, meds, or simply not drinking enough water
• Gum disease or cavities hiding bacteria in hard-to-reach places
• Smoking or chewing tobacco, which dries out your mouth and leaves an, um, signature scent
• Dieting, which releases ketones into your breath (aka fat-burning funk)
• And certain medical conditions like sinus infections, diabetes, or GI issues

Sometimes, it’s not what you ate—it’s what’s eating away at your oral hygiene.

Let’s Talk Coffee (Yes, Again)

Like many of you, I need my morning coffee to feel like a functioning human. And if you follow me on Instagram, you already know: my love for coffee runs deep! 

But let’s be real. Coffee breath? Not exactly minty fresh.

Here’s how I keep mine in check:

• I brush my teeth and tongue after my second (or third) cup.
• I drink water constantly to rinse away lingering acids and bacteria.
• And I always keep sugar-free gum on hand—a little backup plan for staying fresh between sips.

What Can You Do?

Let’s keep this simple. If you want fresher breath (and friends who like standing near you), try this:

• Brush at least twice a day with toothpaste
• Floss daily (yes, daily, not just before your cleaning)
• Scrub that tongue—bacteria loves the back of it
• Hydrate! Water is your breath’s BFF
• Clean dentures or appliances if you wear them
• Visit me in our Palm Desert Dental Studio! (Or your dentist. But let’s be honest, I’m more fun.)

Oh, and if you’re still puffing away on cigarettes, stop. You deserve better. So does your breath.

Final Thought

If you’re doing all the right things and still have halitosis that could clear a room, it may be time to dig deeper. I’ll help you rule out oral causes and, if needed, get you to the right specialist.

Until then—keep brushing, keep smiling, and remember: your breath says hello before you do. Let’s make sure it’s a nice and fresh hello.

Looking forward to seeing you at the studio,

– Dr. Choi

My Top 5 Cosmetic Dental Treatments to Enhance Your Smile

By Dr. Junho Choi

We all have something we’d like to tweak about our smile—maybe it’s a little discoloration, a chip from that popcorn kernel incident, or a tooth that’s decided to zig when the rest zag. At Dell’Acqua Choi Dental Studio in Palm Desert, I work with patients every day who want to feel more confident when they smile. And luckily, modern dentistry gives us plenty of ways to make that happen.

Here are my top 5 go-to cosmetic treatments—and why patients love them:

1. Professional Teeth Whitening

A whiter smile can make a big impact. We offer both Zoom in-office whitening (for instant results) and take-home kits (for the schedule-friendly crowd). Either way, you’ll be ditching those over-the-counter strips for something that actually works—and fast.

2. Porcelain Veneers

For teeth that are chipped, stained, or just a little off, veneers are like a wardrobe upgrade for your smile. Custom-crafted to match your natural teeth, they blend art and science (which, yes, is my favorite combo).

3. Invisalign®

Looking to straighten things out without announcing it to the world? Invisalign uses clear aligners to gently shift your teeth over time. This is a great option for adults, teens, and anyone who’s not into brackets and wires.

4. Dental Implants

Missing a tooth? Let’s fix that. Dental implants are durable, natural-looking, and function just like real teeth. Whether it’s one tooth or several, they’re a solid investment in your oral health—and your bite.

5. Dental Bonding

Have a small chip, gap, or discoloration that’s been bothering you? Bonding is a quick, affordable way to correct minor imperfections. I sculpt a tooth-colored resin right onto your tooth—no drama, no downtime.

Whether you’re ready for a full smile makeover or just curious about your options, I’m here to help every step of the way. If you’re considering cosmetic dental treatments in or around Palm Desert, l would love to chat.  Your perfect smile might be closer (and easier) than you think.

Looking forward to seeing you at the studio,
– Dr. Choi

Porcelain Veneers in Palm Desert – A Natural Approach to a Confident Smile

By Dr. Junho Choi

Let’s talk about porcelain veneers—not the dramatic Hollywood kind, but the kind that actually looks like you, only refreshed. At Dell’Acqua Choi Dental Studio in Palm Desert, I work with patients every day who want to improve their smiles without losing what makes them unique. That’s where veneers come in.

Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-crafted shells that are bonded to the front of your teeth. Think of them as tiny pieces of art that blend seamlessly with your natural smile. My job? To make sure they enhance, not overpower. The goal is always balance—between aesthetics, function, and personality.

What Can Veneers Help With?

You might be a great candidate for veneers if you’re dealing with:

✔ Stubborn stains that won’t lift with whitening
✔ Small chips, cracks, or uneven edges
✔ Gaps between teeth that bug you
✔ Slight misalignment you’d rather not see in photos

Here’s What to Expect

I like to keep things straightforward, so here’s the general process:

1. Consultation – We sit down, talk about your goals, and assess your smile. 

2. Tooth Preparation – I gently reshape a small amount of enamel so your veneers sit just right.

3. Custom Design – Using high-quality porcelain combined with advanced technology and an artistic approach, each veneer is crafted to match your natural teeth.

4. Placement – Once we’ve perfected the fit and feel, I bond them into place. That’s your “wow” moment.

Why Patients Love Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain is not only beautiful, but it’s also durable and resistant to staining—yes, even if you love coffee as much as I do. (Just check out my Instagram @dr.junhochoi.… coffee is art.) With proper care, veneers can last 10+ years, giving you a long-lasting, low-maintenance reason to smile.

If you’re thinking about porcelain veneers in Palm Desert, I’d be happy to talk it through with you. Every smile is different, and so is every treatment plan. Let’s find out if veneers are the right fit for you.

Looking forward to seeing you at the studio,
– Dr. Choi

What to Expect When Getting Dental Implants

By Dr. Junho Choi

Thinking about dental implants? You’re not alone. They’ve become one of the most reliable and natural-feeling ways to replace missing teeth—and I get a lot of questions about what the process actually looks like. So, let’s break it down together.

Dental implants are a long-term solution that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. And yes, they really do make a difference—not just in your smile, but in your confidence and comfort when eating, speaking, or, you know, showing off at a dinner party.

Here’s what the process usually involves:

Step 1: Consultation & Planning

At your first visit, I’ll evaluate your oral health and use advanced imaging to take a detailed look beneath the surface—think of it as a behind-the-scenes tour of your smile. From there, we’ll create a treatment plan that’s tailored specifically to you. If your jawbone needs extra support, I may recommend bone grafting to ensure a solid foundation for your implant. It’s all about setting things up for long-term success.

Step 2: Implant Placement

This part involves a small surgical procedure where I place a titanium post into your jawbone. It acts like the root of a tooth, and over the next few months, something pretty amazing happens—your bone fuses to the implant. That’s called osseointegration, and it’s one of the big reasons implants are so strong and lasting.

Step 3: The Final Restoration

Once everything’s healed up and secure, we place your custom crown on top. It’s color-matched and designed just for you, so it looks completely natural (and no one will know it’s not the real deal—unless you decide to brag about my artistic dental work).

With the right care— brushing, flossing, and regular checkups—dental implants can last a lifetime. That’s the beauty of doing it right the first time.

If you’re thinking about dental implants in Palm Desert, I’d love to help you understand your options and see if it’s the right fit for your smile and lifestyle. Let’s make a plan that works for you.

Looking forward to seeing you at the studio,
– Dr. Choi

Chipped Tooth? Here’s What to Do 

By Dr. Junho Choi

Let’s face it—chipping a tooth is never part of the plan. Whether it happened during a not-so-gentle bite into an almond or a friendly game of pickleball gone rogue, it catches you off guard. The good news? Most chipped teeth can be fixed without surgery, and often, without much fuss.

First Things First: What to Do Right Away

If you’ve just chipped your tooth, here’s your calm, cool, collected action plan:

• Rinse with warm water to keep the area clean.
• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling (especially if you took a hit to the face).
• Cover sharp edges with dental wax or sugar-free gum to protect your tongue and cheek.
• Found the missing piece? Store it in milk or your saliva—yes, really—and bring it with you.
• And of course, call your dentist.

Now, Let’s Talk Solutions…

At Dell’Acqua Choi Dental Studio, we’ve got several ways to fix a chipped tooth, all designed to get your smile back in shape—fast.

For Small Chips: Composite Bonding

This is one of my favorite go-to treatments. I use a tooth-colored resin to rebuild the missing piece, sculpting it to match your natural tooth. It’s quick, painless, and blends so well that even you might forget which tooth we worked on.

For Something a Bit More Noticeable: Porcelain Veneers

If the chip is larger or affecting how the tooth looks when you smile, a porcelain veneer may be the better fit. Veneers cover the front surface of the tooth, restoring both strength and aesthetics. Think of it as a little armor with style.

For More Extensive Damage: Crowns

When a tooth loses a significant portion of its structure, a crown is often the best option. It fits over the entire tooth, restoring shape and function while protecting what’s left underneath.

For Minor Touch-Ups: Enamel Contouring

If it’s just a rough edge or tiny chip, we may not need to add anything at all. A bit of enamel contouring can smooth things out quickly and painlessly—no anesthesia required.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It

Even a small chip can lead to bigger problems down the line—like sensitivity, decay, or more breakage. The sooner we fix it, the easier (and more affordable) it is.

So, if you’ve chipped a tooth and you’re in the Palm Desert area, come see me. We’ll get you back to smiling—and chewing—like nothing ever happened.

Looking forward to seeing you at the studio,
– Dr. Choi