Dr. Bruce R. Baumann

About us  

Bruce R. Baumann, DDS, FAGD

Providing preventive, esthetic and advanced restorative dentistry to the Palm Desert area,
Dr. Baumann believes that his dental patients deserve the finest and most advanced dentistry available today. He has received advanced training at the Las Vegas Institute (LVI) for Advanced Dental Studies and Loma Linda University completing a one year residency in Implant Dentistry. He is the only dentist in Palm Desert to do so.

Dr. Baumann has attained fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry, and is a long-standing member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and American Academy of Implant Dentistry. Striving to provide exceptional dentistry for even the most phobic dental patients from the Palm Desert area, Dr. Baumann provides sedation dentistry and is a member of Doctors Organization for Conscious Sedation (DOCS). With his many hours of advanced training, Dr. Baumann is able to provide his dental patients the latest in dental services such as preventive/oral health, whitening, porcelain crowns and bridges, dental implants, orthodontics and treatment of TMJ. He is committed to implementing the latest technologies to improve comfort, accuracy and esthetics, and decrease treatment time. Please review Dr. Baumann’s expertise in smile design and restorative science and his dental and personal background.

 

Dr. Baumann’s Advanced Restorative Training

Dr. Baumann completed his post-graduate training at the Las Vegas Institute (LVI) for Advanced Dental Studies by completing the Master Aesthetic Dentist program. Dr. Baumann is among only a handful of California dentists to have completed the training. Dr. Baumann has also studied Posterior Aesthetic Dentistry, Practical Occlusion, Anterior Composite Restorations, Advanced Orthodontics and TMJ at the LVI. Dr. Baumann recently completed a one year mini residency in implant placement and implant restoration at Loma Linda University Medical Center. He looks forward to sharing his knowledge, experience and commitment to excellence with you.

 

Dr. Baumann is also currently studying under Dr. Clayton Chan refining his techniques in Neuromuscular Dentistry.

Dr. Baumann’s Memberships

• American Association of Implant Dentistry (AAID)
• Fellow – Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD)
• General Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD)
• Doctors of Oral Conscious Sedation (DOCS)
• American Dental Association (ADA)
• California Dental Association (CDA)
• Tri-County Dental Association (TCDA)
• International College of Cranio-Mandibular Orthopedics (ICCMO)
• Coachella Valley Dental Society (CVDS) - Co-Founder
• Regional Training Center for Agility Mouthguard

Background

In 1982, Dr. Baumann began his practice in Palm Desert, California and shortly afterwards joined the staff at Eisenhower Medical Center. He graduated from the University of California, Irvine and earned his DDS at Georgetown University School of Dentistry. After receiving his degree, Dr. Baumann completed his residency at Loma Linda University Medical Center in Advanced Dentistry and the Veterans Administration Hospital, specializing in hospital dentistry. In 1992, he became one of only four dentists in the Coachella Valley to attain fellowship status in the Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Baumann remains very active in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, as well as the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. Dr. Baumann currently practices preventive, cosmetic and implant dentistry in Palm Desert.

Family

When Dr. Baumann isn’t busy at the practice you can usually find him busy with his wife of 30 years and their four children Chelsea, Nicholas, Palmer and Makena. Nick is currently attending the NYU Dental School and will soon join the practice in 2011.

Personal Interests

After family and dentistry, Dr. Baumann's interests include golf, scuba-diving & skiing. He travels nationwide to play in amateur golf events. He is the dentist for many PGA, LPGA and nationwide golfers.

Contact us  

44239 Monterey Avenue

Palm Desert, CA 92260

Phone: 760-610-6689

Fax: 760-340-0789

Email us: info@palmdesertsmiles.com

What our patients say  

"Because of the dental expertise of Dr. Bruce Baumann my self-esteem intensified dramatically. I am now a happily married woman with a superb outlook of my future."

-Adair M.

 

"I have been a patient of Dr. Baumman for over sixteen years. I've always found him to be sensitive to my dental needs. He is aware of the latest technology dentistry has to offer. He is very pleasant and thoughtful. His office staff is outstanding in every way."

-Lilly E.

 

"I was refered to Dr. Baumann's care by several friends. My whole life I've had gaps between my teeth and many irregularities. One day I finally decided to get my smile upgraded. Dr. Baumann placed all porcelain empress restorations on my upper and lower teeth. I couldn't be happier with the result. I get constant feedback from both friends and family as to how great my teeth look. I wish that I had the work done years ago".

-Chris J.

 

"As an adult I noticed in photographs that my teeth weren't as white as I would have liked. My back teeth were black and it was very embarrassing. Dr. Baumann removed all the old, black, cracked fillings and replaced them with beautiful tooth-colored fillings. I am no longer ashamed of having my picture taken. My teeth are beautiful. Thanks Dr. Baumann."

-Sandi T.

 

"Prior to having my smile makeover I was hesitant to smile. I found myself hiding my smile with my hand or a cup of coffee. Now after having my teeth restored I don't hesitate to smile. I love my new veneers. They feel great!"

-K.R.

 

"When my friends and neighbour saw my teeth, they said 'Oh you look great. What did you do? Did you have plastic surgery?' I said 'No, I had my teeth fixed."

-T.W.

 

"The best thing that I ever did for myself was to get my teeth straightened. I look in the mirror everyday and still cannot believe how great my smile looks."

-Fany H.

 

"I just want to thank you again for taking time out of your busy schedule to provide teeth whitening services in exchange for individuals who made a donation to Shelter from the Storm. I hope you know how much your on-going support of the work we do on behalf of abused women and children is appreciated."

-Lynn M.

 

"Words can't express the enormous gratitude I feel. You helped me restore something I cherish deeply... my smile. You're a wonderful doctor! Thank you so much! I'd like to wish you joy, love & laughter."

-Tami T.

Service we offer  

Today, everyone wants a beautiful smile. When a person feels good about their smile, it also reflects a strong self-image.

 

A beautiful smile can help you interact more confidently with family, friends and business acquaintances or that special someone. It can also make you look and feel younger. Whatever your goal, we will help you achieve it and keep your new smile healthy. Choose a solution to review our treatments.

 

Select from the links below to review our services:

 

 

CEREC

Why patients are choosing CEREC

 

Since 1985 CEREC by Sirona has remained the preferred CAD/CAM technology of dentists worldwide for the fabrication of all-ceramic dental restorations in a single treatment appointment. CEREC is proven by hundreds of clinical studies and is offered by thousands of dentists to millions of patients around the world each year. It also has the broadest restorative range of any dental CAD/CAM system on the market. Proven performance, unrivaled success, and unequaled capabilities have made CEREC the number one dental CAD/CAM choice for over 28 years.

 

Most dental restorative methods require more than one visit to the dentist. This means that on the first visit, you get an injection of anesthesia, your tooth prepared, an impression taken, and a temporary restoration put on your tooth. You make a second appointment for a couple of weeks later, get another injection, have the temporary pried off (if it hasn't fallen off already), and have a permanent restoration put on. Why go to the dentist a second time when you don't have to? With CEREC, the procedure is done in a single appointment, start to finish.

 

So, why are thousands of people worldwide choosing the CEREC restorative technique for their dental needs? Simple... Single Appointment Dental Care

 

Finest Dental Materials

 

A CEREC tooth restoration isn't just convenient, it is also healthy. Many years ago, dentists had few options to repair decayed and damaged teeth other than amalgam, gold, and other metals. With CEREC, your dentist can use strong, tooth colored ceramic materials to restore your teeth to their natural strength, beauty, and function. These materials closely match the composition of natural tooth structure.

 

This means when you eat hot food and then drink something cold, the restoration and tooth expand and contract at almost equal rates. So, your tooth does not crack, and you can go on enjoying your evening. Also, the materials are chemically bonded to your tooth, so your dentist can save as much healthy tooth tissue as possible while providing you with a dental restoration that strengthens your tooth.

 

Smile Enhancement

 

Your dentist can use CEREC for more than just crowns and fillings. CEREC is capable of producing any single tooth restoration. Chipped or discolored front teeth can be repaired with beautiful CEREC porcelain anterior crowns or veneers.

 

Your smile makes a lasting first impression. Enhance it with CEREC.

 

Worldwide, a CEREC restoration is placed every 20 seconds. With a history of over 23 years, this equipment has helped dentists place millions of restorations worldwide. Using metal free materials that are the closest to your natural enamel, CEREC gives you the highest quality restorative care.

 

Cerec "Same Day" Crowns

 

The days of taking impressions for a crown, making temporaries, and waiting two weeks for your final product are virtually eliminated with the latest technology in Cerec Crowns. Using Cerec, an infrared camera takes images of your tooth, after it has been shaped, and a three-dimensional virtual model is created. Our assistants then use a computer program to design your crown or onlay. The data is sent by modem to our milling machine, and in minutes your restoration is ready to be polished, cemented into place, adjusted, and you are on your way!

 

Our patients love the convenience of Cerec technology. It means in most cases that in one appointment your tooth can be restored. Less time in the dental chair and fewer appointments are needed. Less tooth structure is lost in most cases. Risk of complications and/or sensitivity is lowered because the tooth structure is more accurately measured. Many fabricated crowns have a metal substrate that porcelain is bonded to. Because Cerec crowns are milled from a solid block, there is less chance of allergic or immune response to the material in the crown.

 

Dr. Baumann and our registered dental assistants have taken extended training in Cerec technology over the past four years, updating their skills with concurrent updates in equipment. We are happy to offer you the latest, and greatest, in dental technology.

 

 

Digital Dental X-Rays

Although we do still take an occasional, conventional X-ray in our office, the majority of our X-rays are digital. They offer an 90 percent reduction in radiation, do not use film or chemicals for developing, and produce an almost instantaneous, high-quality image. X-rays are an important part of a thorough dental examination.

 

A full set is usually required for a patient new to our practice, with two to four "bite wings" necessary at 6 month to 18 month intervals. X-rays can expose tooth decay, tooth abscess, or an ill-fitting or cracked crown or bridge. Most importantly from a health standpoint, they can reveal bone loss from periodontal gum disease, and locate cysts or tumors.

 

Dental X-rays are an important tool in the diagnosis and treatment of dental problems. In combination with a thorough visual examination performed by Dr. Baumann, they provide a comprehensive picture of your dental health.

 

Dental Implants

Dental implants offer a comfortable, permanent answer to people missing one or more natural teeth. Often a superior alternative to conventional dentures or bridges, implants allow you to speak, eat, and smile with complete comfort and confidence. With newer technology, implants are now smaller and much easier to place. Most of our patients have little or no discomfort. They can dramatically change how you feel about your smile for the rest of your life.

 

Zoom Bleaching

Dr. Baumann is proud to offer a new revolutionary tooth whitening procedure. The "ZOOM" in office whitening system is safe, effective and very fast. In just over one hour you can take this step to feeling good, looking great and making a memorable impression every time you smile. The convenience of Zoom in comparison to days of wearing trays and gradual whitening makes it the perfect choice for the busy individual. For more information, please see: Frequently Asked Questions about ZOOM Whitening.

 

 

KöR Bleaching

It's fairly well known in the dental industry there are two leaders in whitening techniques. Zoom bleaching uses a light activated bleaching gel that gets great immediate chair side results. KöR bleaching has been an excellent take home/tray system that gets out the difficult stains (tetracycline stains) that require an extended bleaching system. In order to maximize the results and take all doubt from the results we have combined both systems to give you the best dentistry has to offer. Zoom chair side and KöR take home whitening are the ultimate whitening combination.

 

Invisalign and Invisalign Teen

Dr. Baumann has completed training on how to provide Invisalign Orthodontics to our patients. Invisalign technology allows the movement of teeth without the use of conventional braces. Computer technology creates nearly invisible tooth positioners that are changed every two weeks. This allows for better oral hygiene and comfort while still getting a beautiful smile. We also offer Invisalign Teen, the newest technology for younger patients, eliminating the need for uncomfortable brackets and wires. Ask Dr. Baumann or one of the staff if you have any questions about this new technology.

 

Metal Free Restorations

These restorations are free of metal (mercury) and actually bond to the remaining tooth structure. This strengthens the tooth while beautifully matching the surrounding teeth. These restorations are excellent for the replacement of old, black mercury amalgam fillings. They restore and strengthen the tooth while still being conservative in tooth removal.

 

Porcelain Fused to Metal Crowns and Bridges

For those patients who require large space bridgework to replace more than a few teeth, traditional porcelain-fused-to-metal restorations remain state of the art. The metal substructure provides necessary strength for maximum function. To further improve the esthetics, we can upgrade the margins or edges of these crowns with all porcelain margins so that no metal shows. Ask Dr. Baumann about what type of crown is best for you.

 

Composite Bonding

Composite bonding is one of the most conservative, versatile and affordable ways to cover discoloration, close gaps, repair chips or breaks or replace a small amount of tooth structure. In many instances it’s the modern replacement for old black fillings many of us received as children. Through the bonding technique these white composite restorations actually strengthen the remaining tooth structure unlike mercury amalgam which often causes teeth to break.

 

Smile Recontouring

Smile recontouring is another very simple and easy way to improve your smile. With an artistic flare, the top edges of the front teeth are reshaped (with a very small diamond disc) recreating the rounded more youthful shape your teeth once had. As teeth age, many times the edges of the front teeth are worn flat and the edges become square. Reshaping natural teeth can quite easily restore a more youthful appearance.

 

 

 

Empress and Empress II Porcelain Inlays and Crowns and Bridges

These all-ceramic restorations are by far the most beautiful, natural looking crowns available today. Empress crowns are often indistinguishable from natural teeth. The secret to their beauty is no metal substructure in the crowns. With no metal present even if the gum tissue recedes over time the crown still looks great. There are no black lines around the neck of the crowns like you see with conventional porcelain fused to metal crowns.

 

Holistic Dentistry

The Relationship of Oral to Overall Health

 

“The terms oral health and general health should not be interpreted as separate entities. Oral Health is integrated to general health: Oral Health means more than healthy teeth and you cannot be healthy without oral health.”- Donna Shalala Secretary of Health and Human Resources; Oral Health in America: A report of the Surgeon General

 

Most patients and health professionals are unaware of the effects that oral health issues, particularly mercury from amalgam fillings, gum disease and other oral problems can have on overall health.

 

Oral health issues affecting overall health

• Most health professionals are aware that certain seafood is a source of mercury. But did you know that mercury amalgam fillings are the number one source of chronic mercury poisoning, far greater than seafood or environmental causes.
• The symptoms of chronic mercury poisoning are many and the health problems mercury can directly or indirectly cause contribute to or make it worse. More information...
• Gum Disease: The role of gum disease as a contributing and even causative factor in systemic disease is not debatable. When any infection is present in the body, especially one as serious and long lasting one as gum disease, it will negatively affect the entire body.
• Other oral health issues of concern:
  • Infected root canals
  • Infected extraction site
  • Non biocompatible dental materials
  • Other diseases of the oral cavity
  • Safe removal of amalgam fillings

 

Neuromuscular Dentistry/TMJ

The neuromuscular dentist understands the unique relationship between occlusion (bite), muscles and the temperomandibular joint (TMJ). The neuromuscular dentist is involved in the diagnosis and treatment of cranial facial pain, migraine headaches, TMJ dysfunction, and head and neck pain jaw disorders including popping, clicking and locking of the TMJ joint. The list of associated symptoms seems endless:

 

• Headaches
• Clenching/bruxing
• TMJ pain
• Facial pain
• TMJ noise
• Tender sensitive teeth
• Limited opening
• Difficulty chewing
• Ear congestion
• Neck pain
• Dizziness
• Postural problems
• Ringing in the ears
• Numbness in fingertips
• Difficulty swallowing
• Hot/cold sensitivity
• Loose teeth
• Insomnia

 

Treatment involves using myotronic K-7 equipment to determine what position your jaw is comfortable in when relaxed. The jaws are relaxed with a low frequency tens unit that allows the dentist to determine the best jaw position. A neuromuscular bite is then taken at the proper jaw position. A laboratory technician then constructs an orthotic (occlusal guard) for the patient to wear. It is usual that after correcting the bite with a removable orthotic most if not all of the symptoms resolve. Sometimes physical therapy and/or chiropractics is indicated as adjunctive therapy to the orthotic. Once comfortable with the orthotic appliance a definitive treatment plan can be established which can include orthodontics, multiple crowns or bite adjustments.

 

Porcelain Veneers/ Porcelain Crowns

In many cosmetic dentistry makeovers either porcelain veneers or porcelain crowns are the restoration of choice. Typically, dental crowns encase an entire tooth whereas porcelain veneers cover only the front side of the tooth. The amount of tooth reduction needed for a crown differs from that of a veneer. Aside from removal of decayed old fillings there are structural requirements which can sometimes dictate the need for a crown over a veneer. In cosmetic cases keep in mind there is some idealized surface shape that the dentist is trying to achieve for both cosmetic and functional concerns. A classic porcelain veneer is a wafer-thin shell of ceramic that is bonded onto the front of the tooth. Whereas a dental crown covers and encases the entire tooth, a porcelain veneer just covers the side of the tooth a person shows when they are smiling. There is significantly less tooth structure removed for a porcelain veneer as opposed to when a dental crown is made. The veneer is a preferred preparation in that less tooth structure is sacrificed.

 

Dental Crowns

• Can be used to significantly change the color and shape of a tooth
• Are often used to rebuild teeth that are badly broken/decayed
• Are very strong, they are a good choice in situations where the tooth is subject to heavy biting forces
• Require significant tooth reduction
• Once a crown is made the tooth will always require a crown

Porcelain Veneers

• Can be used to produce significant color and minor shapes change to the tooth
• Are placed on the teeth whose underlining tooth structure is generally healthy. In fact they are strong but brittle and do best in the absence of heavy occlusal forces
• Require much less tooth preparation than crowns
• Once a veneer is place, most likely the tooth will always require a veneer

 

Hygiene Services

• Blood pressure screening
• Periodontal evaluation
• Prophylaxis or full mouth debridement
• Prophy jet therapy (stain removal)
• Oral cancer screening, Vizilite test (oral lesion identification and marking system)
• Taking digital radiographs
• RDD (root planing, detoxification and debridement) using micro-ultrasonic, manual scaling, followed by a soft tissue laser therapy
• Administering local anesthesia and nitrous oxide
• Application of antimicrobials and desensitizing agents
• Oral hygiene instructions

 

Continuing care

In our office we have two types of continuing care for our patients depending on their oral health:

 

Continuing care for patients with healthy gums (no clinical signs of inflammation, no bleeding and 1-3 mm pockets) includes periodontal evaluation, professional cleaning or prophylaxis every 6 months, oral hygiene instructions, digital radiographs to detect caries usually once in one or two years and exam with Dr. Baumann.

 

Continuing care for patients with active periodontal disease or a history of a periodontal disease consists of periodontal evaluation, supportive periodontal therapy (professional cleaning) every 45-90 days, necessary digital radiographs to detect caries and monitor bone level, laser therapy, antimicrobials, topical fluoride rinse or dentifrice and nutritional counseling for patients prone to root decay, oral hygiene instructions and exam with Dr. Baumann.

 

Sedation Dentistry