Cary Family Dental, protecting your family from cavities this Halloween

With Halloween only two weeks away, Dr. Acton and Dr. Maj know that there will soon be many tricks and treats! While this festive holiday is full of costumes and fun community activities, it can also be a harmful time for the teeth of young trick-or-treaters in our Cary, NC neighborhoods.

With all of the sugary, sticky, and chewy treats that are often shared with trick-or-treaters, it is important to follow these simple tips to prevent cavities this Halloween:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily
• Gently brush your gums to keep them healthy (when choosing a toothbrush it is recommended to use soft bristles)
• Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food that may be caught between the teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach
• Limit the amount of soda and sugary treats you eat/drink
• Be sure to visit your dentist every six months for a teeth cleaning and check-up

For more information on cavities and good oral hygiene habits, or to schedule your next appointment at Cary Family Dental, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 919-439-5330.

Cosmetic Dentistry at Cary Family Dental

It is our commitment at Cary Family Dental to ensure that your dental experience is affordable, comfortable, and personalized. Dr. Acton and Dr. Maj offer our patients the most state-of-the-art cosmetic dentistry services. In a recent smile makeover, one patient told Dr. Acton, "I love my new teeth and I feel like smiling again."

Trouble-free, affordable cosmetic dentistry can make a difference in your life. Cary Family Dentistry offers our patients mercury-free fillings, dental implants, crowns, and tooth-colored fillings.


Be sure to ask Drs. Maj or Acton about what cosmetic dentistry can do for you at your next appointment!

What do you love about Cary Family Dental?

From your very first visit to Cary Family Dental our doctors and team strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. We thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: Have you been especially impressed by the work of Dr. Acton and Dr. Maj? Did our team go out of their way to make your day? Are you in love with your new smile?

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. You can write a review here. Or, you can tell us by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

Thank you,

The team at Cary Family Dental

Ask Drs. Acton and Maj: What can Invisalign® do for my oral health?

When considering treatment options, patients often ask us how Invisalign treatment is so different than traditional braces. Well, there are more reasons to smile about Invisalign with Cary Family Dental than you may know. Invisalign is a series of removable aligners that are nearly invisible, and besides straightening your teeth, can improve your oral health. Here’s how:

Healthy gums: Straight teeth allow a close fit for gums. This lessens the gum stress that is caused by crowded or widely spaced teeth, thus also reducing red and swollen gums.

Easy cleaning: Invisalign is removable, therefore brushing and flossing is easier and you are able to maintain a healthy mouth. These habits are vital to avoiding tooth decay, plaque and even gum disease.

Improved speech and chewing: Properly-aligned teeth don’t have the discomfort or compound speech impediments that can be caused by crowded teeth or a deteriorating jawbone.

If you have any questions about Invisalign, just ask Drs. Acton and Maj the next time you’re in for an appointment. Or, you may post your question on our Facebook page! You can also read this article for more information on Invisalign and your oral health.

September is National Gum Care Month

Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, can be difficult to recognize. Many people do not recognize the warning signs - bleeding and swollen gums - as a precursor to gum disease. This month, a national campaign is underway to raise awareness about gum health and periodontal disease, and we at Cary Family Dental wanted to do our part to help spread the word!

Early recognition and action are the most important steps to health gums, and ultimately a health body too! Studies are published every year linking oral health, including the gums, to the health of other areas of the body, such as the heart. One of the most important steps to improving the care of your gums is recognizing the warning signs for gum disease. These can include:

• Gums that appear red or swollen
• Gums that feel tender
• Gums that bleed easily (during brushing or flossing)
• Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
• Persistent halitosis, or bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Any change in the way teeth come together in the biting position

If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment with our office as soon as possible. We can take proactive steps to prevent gingivitis and gum disease, while showing you how to improve gum care in your daily oral hygiene habits.

Cary Family Dental donates $6,276 to support InterAct

Dr. Acton and Cary Family Dental are committed to our Cary, NC community. This year, we were able to donate $6,276 towards InterAct, a United Way organization that provides safety, support, and awareness to victims and survivors of domestic violence and rape/sexual assault. InterAct offers many valuable services to our community, including youth education services, a residential shelter, 24 hour crisis lines, and rape prevention services, among others. Last year, Cary Family Dental donated $9493 to InterAct, for a total of $15,769 in the last two years.

For more information about InterAct and the services and programs that the organization provides, feel free to visit the Interact website. You can also give Dr. Acton and Cary Family Dental a call if you have any questions about InterAct or our commitment to the Cary, NC community.

Cary Family Dental ranked as a top fundraiser in the Smiles for Life Campaign!

Cary Family Dental is proud to announce that we been ranked in the Top 5 Percent of national Smiles for Life fundraising participants. Dr. Allan Acton and our team raised over $65,000 to benefit children's charities, and ranked #17 out of the 400 Crown Council dental practices throughout North America that participated in the annual Smiles for Life campaign.

During the four-month Smiles for Life campaign, Crown Council members offer teeth whitening services at a significantly reduced price. Through a unique partnership with legendary entertainer Garth Brooks and his Teammates For Kids Foundation, Smiles for Life guarantees that half of the money raised by Crown Council members goes to children’s charities in communities across North America. The remaining half goes to the charity chosen by the dental practice. For the second year in a row, Cary Family Dental Family Dental selected Interact, the only confidential domestic violence prevention program serving Wake County’s twelve municipalities.

Dr. Acton is proud of our partnership with Crown Council and the money and awareness that Cary Family Dental has able to raise through the Smiles for Life Campaign. Last year, after raising $20,000 for the campaign, Dr. Acton even shaved his head in response to a colleague's dare.

To learn more about The Smiles for Life Foundation, visit the Smiles for Life website, or give us a call!

Thank you,

-Cary Family Dental

Your turn! From Cary Family Dental

Week after week, Dr. Acton and team blog about important topics pertinent to dental care and your well-being, including innovative dental techniques we offer. Today, we thought we’d step back and ask you, our loyal patients and readers: What’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the field of dentistry? What would you like us to focus on our blog in the coming months? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook fan page!

So… take it away and we’ll try to answer any questions you may have!

Eating healthy at the ballpark this summer, from Cary Family Dental

This summer, as you and the family head out to the ball game—whether it’s at a Major League park or the local tee ball game, it’s important to remember to make smart, healthy choices when it comes to snacks. Here are some tips from our team at Cary Family Dental that you can use to avoid greasy, ballpark foods:

1. Eat before you go!

2. What are you drinking? Water is always a cheap, refreshing option. Gatorade, Powerade and VitaminWater work as well, though keep in mind their sugar levels.

3. Bring your own snacks. Remember that these must be in unopened packages when you enter the gates.

4. Before the game, get some exercise. You’ll be sitting for two- to three hours at the game, so be sure to take a walk or a light run before you head out.

5. Calories, calories, calories. From hot dogs to fries to pizza, the ballpark stands typically sell high-caloric foods. But most venues will also offer healthier options, such as crab cakes, chicken sandwiches, turkey wraps or soups and salads.

Enjoy the game!

-Cary Family Dental

Summer reading for the dads, from Cary Family Dental

Hey Dads! Looking for a great book to read this summer? We’ve got some suggestions! Recently, we came across “A Guy’s Summer Book Guide,” which happens to be a pretty cool resource if you’re shopping around for a great summer read! If you’re still not satisfied, check out this complete list of reading ideas from Barnes & Noble. The list includes bestsellers, new releases, classics, as well as books designed for everyone in the family!

Happy reading! Be sure to share with us your summer picks or your all-time favorites on our Facebook page!

- Cary Family Dental

Cary Family Dental in the upcoming issue of Cary Magazine!

Our team at Cary Family Dental just completed the Smile Makeover Contest with Cary Magazine. Ms. Grace Love was the winner and is thrilled with her new smile. Ms. Love always wanted a new smile but could never afford it. She now feels more confident in herself and loves to smile.

Be sure to keep an eye out for the full article, which will be in the September-October issue of Cary Magazine. Congratulations on your beautiful new smile, Ms. Love!

-Cary Family Dental

Dr. Cary asks: Is sedation dentistry right for you?

Cary Family Dental is committed to making sure your dental experience is affordable, comfortable and personalized. However, we realize that fear or anxiety while visiting the dentist can affect many adults. For patients who need extra comfort and relaxation during their dental visit, we are pleased to offer sedation dentistry.

Do you feel nervous or stressed about your upcoming dental treatment? Well you’re not alone; in fact, almost 30 percent of the population experiences "dental phobia" when faced with visiting the dentist!

Your may benefit from sedation dentistry if you regularly experience one or more of the following:

* High fear of dental care
* Complex dental problems
* Traumatic dental experiences
* Fear of needles and shots
* Trouble getting numb
* Sensitive teeth

If you suffer from dental phobia, sedation dentistry may be the answer. Please give us a call for more information about sedation dentistry, and we'll be more than happy to answer your questions.

Regular Checkups for Adults are Essential in Maintaining Good Oral Health

Are you brushing your teeth twice a day? If yes, that’s great; but, don’t forget that it’s also important for you to visit Cary Family Dental every six months in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing. Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health.

We can check for problems that might not be seen or felt, detect cavities and early signs of decay, treat oral health problems early and show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth.

During an oral exam we can check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If you have not been to the dentist in the last six months, give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Cary Family Dental, helping you avoid heat exhaustion this summer

With the heat wave sweeping through the majority of the Eastern Seaboard this summer, we want you to be extra careful when you’re out and about. A couple of weeks ago, Good Morning America ran a segment on the many ways you can protect yourself from heat exhaustion, heat stroke and other heat-related conditions this summer. And, here are a few summer safety tips from our friends at WebMD.

Our team encourages you to watch this short clip and remember to always have a bottle of water handy when heading out! We hope you’re having a GREAT summer!

Ask Cary Family Dental: Is Invisalign® really customized for each patient?

Yes, it is, and that’s part of what makes it work. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment, the first thing we do is to take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitize it. Using special software, we look at the current positioning of your teeth and compare it to the way your teeth should look.

Next we use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. The best thing about it all? Nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Cary Family Dental is a certified Invisalign provider. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, please give us a call.

The Connection Between Oral Hygiene and Heart Health

Here at Cary Family Dental, we are always encouraging our patients to maintain a high standard of oral health, especially with the past studies linking oral health with heart health. A study was recently published to determine the relationship between daily oral hygiene and heart health. An 8 year study tracking oral hygiene habits and the likelihood of heart problems found that individuals who "rarely" or "never" brushed their teeth had a much higher chance of a heart problem - 70% higher in fact! Take a look at the article by clicking here.

How strong is your daily oral hygiene routine? If you aren't brushing twice a day and flossing at least once, you should be!

Happy Independence Day

This upcoming Sunday - which happens to be Independence Day, of course - Our staff will celebrate our nation's 234th birthday. For most folks, the Fourth of July is a chance to celebrate and commemorate America's Declaration of Independence. It's also a time for every American to pay homage to all our soldiers, past, present and future - who lost their lives in battle - and the brave servicemen- and women who place themselves in harm's way every day so that we may continue enjoy our freedoms.

Today, we thought we'd ask: what are your Fourth of July weekend plans? Are you heading to a barbecue? A picnic? Hitting the open road with family? Having fun in the sun?

Whatever you might be doing over Independence Day weekend, our entire staff hope you have a great week and a safe and happy Fourth of July weekend! Feel free to post your Independence Day photos on our Facebook page!

Dr. Allan Acton of Cary Family Dental Named 2010 Triangle Impact Health Care Leader

Distinction recognizes individuals who have helped shape the Triangle medical community

CARY, NC – June 16, 2010 – Dr. Allan Acton of Cary Family Dental was recently honored by Business Leader magazine as one of the publication’s 2010 Triangle Impact Health Care Leaders. Dr. Acton opened Cary Family Dental in 2003 with the philosophy that education was going to play a fundamental role in how his practice was managed. Since that time, he has become one of the Triangle’s most accomplished and trusted dentists.

Dr. Acton was one of twenty-two physicians and/or industry executives to be recognized this year by Business Leader. Dr. Acton says that it is an honor to be alongside so many trusted and respected names in the health care industry and he attributes his success to his fellow team members.

“It truly is a privilege to work with so many talented individuals who truly care about our patients as individuals,” says Dr. Acton. “Our patients truly respond to this kind of personal and interactive treatment and realize that we’re all equally committed to ensuring their comfort and optimal dental health. I’m proud of this distinction and look forward to continuing to serve the Triangle community.”

Dr. Acton is a graduate of the Medical College of Virginia and completed his advanced dental education residency at the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry. Dr. Acton is currently one of only six dentists in North Carolina certified to provide DuraTHIN veneers and graduated with honors from The Hornbrook Group’s distinguished national training program.

In 2009, Dr. Acton received a Fellowship Award from the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and most recently completed a one-week, 50-hour training course provided by The Kois Center in Seattle, which taught attendees how to better and more comprehensively diagnose and treat complex dental needs including periodontal disease, cavities, and jaw and bite problems. Dr. Acton has also been voted Best Cosmetic Dentist by readers of Cary Magazine for three consecutive years (2008–2010).

Dr. Acton and Cary Family Dental are also committed to their community. Together, they have raised over $60,000 for the Smiles for Life campaign, an annual four-month long campaign sponsored by the Crown Council that raises money to help children facing serious health and educational problems. The practice also provides free dental health presentations to local preschools and elementary schools in order to teach children on the basics of proper dental care.

About Cary Family Dental
Cary Family Dental is located at 102 Fountain Brook Circle, Suite A in Cary, NC and provides a trusted tradition of personalized, comfortable, and affordable care. Dr. Allan Acton has trained extensively and offers comprehensive cosmetic and family dental care in Invisalign, veneers, implants, dentures, emergency care, fillings, crowns, root canals and periodontal therapy. Cary Family Dental serves families in Cary, Apex, Raleigh, Morrisville, and the surrounding areas. For more information, call (919) 460-6884 or visit www.carydental.com.

About Business Leader Magazine
Business Leader Magazine’s Triangle, NC Edition provides critical local market intelligence to CEOs and other business leaders. Published monthly since 1989, the magazine covers the companies, leaders and business happenings in the Triangle region of North Carolina. The magazine features editorial on the legal, financial, technology, management, marketing, and business services industries and highlights top women in business, up-and-coming leaders, top 100 small businessess and top entrepreneurs. For more information, visit http://triangle.businessleader.com/.

Smile wider, live longer, from Cary Family Dental

Folks with big smiles may actually live than those who don’t, according to a March 2010 study at Michigan’s Wayne State University. We have known for quite some time that positive emotion has been linked to both physical and mental health, but researchers at the university did something quite interesting: they looked at photos of 230 ball-players who began their careers in baseball prior to 1950 and studied their smile intensity (ranging from big smile, no smile or partial smile). The players' smile ratings were compared with data from deaths that occurred from 2006 through 2009. The researchers then took into account other factors that impact life longevity, including body mass index, career length and even college attendance.

The results? Researchers found that players who weren't smiling in the photos died at the average age of 72.9 years. Players with partial smiles lived to be 75. Those with big smiles, however, lived on average to be 79.9 years old.

The take-away from the new study? Smile now, smile often and you might just live longer! Have you been perfecting your smile by visiting Cary Family Dental on a regular basis? If not, give us a call!

Cary Family Dental Supporting the National Smile Month

Now that we’re in June, our staff at Cary family Dental thought we’d tell you June is National Smile Month, and a good time to remind all our patients to practice good oral hygiene between your visits to see us!

Below are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Month for many, many years to come:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks
* Visit us regularly (every 6 months)!

If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call, or visit our web site!

Additional Invisalign Questions....Answered!

Last week, we posted a few frequently asked questions and answers about Invisalign here at Cary Family Dental. Check out the next set of questions below. Did we miss your question? Leave a comment here or on our Facebook page, or better yet, give us a call!

Can other people see that I'm in treatment?

One of the benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are clear. You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.

Can I smoke during treatment?

We discourage smoking while wearing the aligners as they may become discolored.

Are there any foods I shouldn’t eat while in treatment?

You can eat normally during the entire course of treatment. One of the advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. Simply take the aligners out before each meal, brush when you're finished eating, then reinsert the aligners afterward.

What about chewing gum?

We recommend removing your aligners for all meals and snacks, as gum and other chewy substances can stick to the aligners.

How do I clean my aligners?

The best way to clean your aligners is by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water.

How often must I visit during treatment?

For most patients, visits every 4-6 weeks are frequent enough for us to determine that your treatment is progressing properly. We will provide you with a specific schedule that supports your individual treatment plan.

Frequently Asked Questions about Invisalign!

Are you wondering what Invisalign treatment is really like, and what effect it will have on your day-to-day activities? Will it slur your speech? Will people know you're in treatment? You're not alone in your concerns! Drs. Acton & Maj and our team thought we’d share this list of questions and answers for anyone pondering Invisalign treatment at Cary Family Dental.

How exactly does Invisalign work?

Using 3-D computer imaging technology, Invisalign creates a series of custom-made, clear aligners exclusively for your teeth, based on the treatment plan that we specify for you. Each aligner moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.

Will I experience pain during treatment?

Most people experience temporary discomfort for a few days after a new aligner is placed. This feeling of pressure is normal and is a sign that Invisalign is working by sequentially moving your teeth to their final destination.

How often must I wear my aligners?

Aligners should be worn all day, except when eating, brushing, and flossing.

Will my speech be affected by the aligners?

As with any orthodontic treatment, aligners may temporarily affect your speech. If this does happen, your tongue will adjust within a day or two and your speech should return to normal.

We will be answering more Invisalign questions next week, so stay tuned!

Ask Cary Family Dental: Which toothbrush should my child use?

Cary Family Dental will tell you that brushing your teeth is one of the easiest methods of cavity prevention. But which type of toothbrush should your child use? When choosing a toothbrush, look for round-ended (polished) bristles that clean while being gentle on the gums. Choose one that is specifically designed for children's smaller mouths and hands. Also, look for large handles that can help children control the toothbrush. Lastly, throw out a toothbrush after three months or sooner if the bristles are fraying. Frayed bristles can harm your gums, and are not as effective in cleaning teeth.

As far as which toothpaste is best? It doesn't matter as long as it has fluoride in it. However, for small children who tend to swallow toothpaste, do not use fluoridated toothpaste. Make sure to touch each tooth and every side of that tooth. Also, you do need to gently brush on your gums.

To learn more about choosing the right toothbrush and toothpaste for your child, we encourage you to read this helpful article from Parenthood.com. Or, you may give us a call and we'll try to answer any question you may have about keeping your child's mouth as healthy as possible!

Bottled Water May Be Behind Tooth Troubles

We at Cary Family Dental want you to know that as more families turn to bottled water and away from the tap, they may be missing out on one important ingredient that most brands of bottled water fail to include: fluoride!

As of 2005, bottled water is second only to soft drinks as the most popular drink in the United States, beating out milk, juice, and – more significantly – tap water. Between 2001 and 2006, the amount of bottled water sold in the U.S. rose an average of 10% per year. And many dental health specialists point to bottled water’s increased popularity as the culprit behind rising rates of cavities.

Because fluoride helps strengthen teeth, it is an important component of maintaining good oral health. The benefits of fluoride were noticed in the early part of the twentieth century, when researchers found communities with low levels of tooth decay. It turned out that these towns had measurable levels (around 1 part per million) of fluoride in their drinking water.

Beginning in the 1940s, communities have fluoridated their water supplies, and dentists have seen a significant decline in cavities ever since. The American Dental Association endorses both community water fluoridation and the use of fluoride-containing products as a safe means of preventing tooth decay. Between tap water and toothpaste, most of us get sufficient amounts of fluoride.

But if your family avoids fluoridated tap water in favor of ever-more-popular bottled water, you could be missing out on the levels of fluoride necessary to make a difference in your oral health.

If bottled water is your water of choice, check the label to make sure that your brand contains fluoride. As of a 2006 decision, the FDA allows bottled water containing .6 to 1.0 milligrams per liter of fluoride to carry a label stating that fluoridated water may reduce the risk of dental cavities or tooth decay. The ADA has backed this decision.

Of course, simply drinking fluoridated water is not a magic ticket to perfect teeth. To keep your choppers in tip-top shape, it’s important to brush and floss daily and avoid sugary sweets, in addition to maintaining your fluoride intake and visiting us at Cary Family Dental regularly.

Cary Family Dental, Cary, NC‘s CEREC® Provider

CEREC is a technology for restoring damaged teeth, and this restoration can be completed in a single visit to Cary Family Dental. It makes your teeth stronger and more beautiful — all while keeping your teeth looking natural. The restoration is metal-free and the high-grade ceramic material is compatible with the natural tissue found in your mouth. This is the finest restorative material available today, all in one appointment.

The CEREC Process

First, we will meet with you to discuss the details of the procedure. During the procedure, we will apply a thin layer of reflective powder onto your tooth and will use a special camera to take a photo of your tooth. Using Computer Aided Design, the photo serves as an optimal impression. The restoration will then be designed by the computer on this impression. Then CEREC will use a diamond bur and disk to create your restoration piece out of a high tech ceramic. Finally, the ceramic restoration is bonded to your tooth using state-of-the-art adhesive dentistry.

Cary Family Dental is your local CEREC dentist for single-visit tooth restorations. Call us today to schedule an appointment.

Dental Implants vs Bridges, a great article

Recently the New York Times published an article discussing the long term benefits of dental implants over bridges for tooth replacement.

Keep in mind that although implants can be a very effective solution to tooth loss, the process is a more involved one, and therefore need to be completed in stages.

At Cary Family Dental, we are able to provide dental implants, and the entire process can take anywhere from 3-6 months. While implants are a great long term solution for many patients, those with serious gum or jawbone deficiencies, osteoporosis, or uncontrolled diabetes may not be able to support a long-term implant.

Call us today at 919-439-5330 and schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation with us to discuss your implant options. You can also visit our web site for more information about dental implants and other general and cosmetic dentistry options in Cary, North Carolina.

Cary Family Dental’s Crystal Koran Named Hygienist of the Year by Crown Council

Cary Family Dental is pleased to announce that Crystal Koran, RDH was recently recognized by the Crown Council as Hygienist of the Year at the organization’s 15th Annual Event in San Antonio, TX held at the Grand Hyatt Hotel. The Crown Council is a multi-national alliance of leading-edge dental teams dedicated to raising the standard of dental care and becoming leaders in health, wellness, and prevention in their communities.

Koran was one of 14 dental professionals who were nominated to receive this award, which recognizes one hygienist among Crown Council's members in the United States and Canada who goes above the beyond the call of duty and works to make his or her practice a success. Nominees possess "certain magical qualities that make them the very best in their profession" and are "hard-working, caring, personable, knowledgeable, thorough, friendly, up-beat, enthusiastic, compassionate, funny, and positive."

Koran graduated from Harrisburg Area Community College in Pennsylvania with a degree in dental hygiene and is currently a part-time student at UNC Chapel Hill working towards a degree in chemistry with plans to apply to dental school in the near future. She has close to 20 years of experience in the dental field and currently serves as the Director of Hygiene Operations and Education for Cary Family Dental.

Koran is a member of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) and volunteers locally at Wake Smiles Clinic. In 2009, she raised $5,400 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society by training and running a half marathon (13.1 miles) in Anchorage, Alaska. She has served as an evaluator for Dental Product Shopper since 2008 and has provided free dental seminars to local preschools and elementary schools for the last several years.

"I am humbled and honored to receive this recognition,” says Koran. “Providing excellent dental care while making personal connections with my patients are my joy and passion. Every day I feel grateful for the wonderful opportunities and great mentors that I have been blessed with. I look forward to continuing in my professional growth and service to our community."

Cary Family Dental Provides Dental Health Presentations to Local Schools for Fourth Year

In conjunction with Children’s Dental Health Month, Cary Family Dental recently presented 16 dental health presentations to over 700 preschool, kindergarten, and first grade students in Cary, Raleigh, Morrisville, Apex, and Holly Springs. Crystal Koran, RDH; Melissa Crouse, RDH; and Melissa Dunn, RDH, BSDH from Cary Family Dental gave the dental health presentations to students at Brier Creek Elementary, Sterling Montessori, Salem Elementary, Holly Springs Elementary, Kingswood Elementary, and Kirk of Kildaire Children’s Center. This is the fourth consecutive year that the dental practice has provided these free presentations to the community.

Cary Family Dental offers these presentations in February to coincide with Children’s Dental Health Month, an annual event sponsored by the American Dental Association to raise awareness about the importance of oral health. Crouse says that early education about the importance of proper tooth maintenance is important to ensuring lifelong optimal dental health.
"We enjoy being able to provide this program to the area children every year,” says Crouse. “It is very rewarding to be able to introduce them to proper oral hygiene and habits. We know that early education is key and establishing good habits at such an early age is very important. We look forward to doing these presentations again next year!"

Cary Family Dental provided 30-minute interactive presentations, which included puppets, a game teaching healthy foods, and information on healthy oral hygiene habits and brushing techniques. The hygienists also encouraged regular dental appointments. Each student was also given a gift bag which included dental supplies, a coloring book, crayons, stickers, and a dental informational brochure for parents.

Kristen Roberts is a Special Programs Teacher from Salem Elementary. She said that the manipulatives and video provided by Cary Family Dental really held her students’ attention. She said that the benefits of the presentation were two-fold.

“The children now have more knowledge of their teeth, and it’s always good for them to see health providers before being put in an office/clinic situation,” says Roberts. “I also liked the way [the presentation] was easily adapted to our population of children with special needs. I hope to see you again next year.”

Cary Family Dental offers free dental health presentations to preschools and elementary schools in Cary, Apex, Raleigh, Morrisville, and the surrounding areas on a first-come, first-serve basis. Any educator interested in booking a presentation at his or her school for next year can contact Cary Family Dental at (919) 460-6884.

Smile Makeover Contest at Cary Family Dental

Last year, we held a contest for a Smile Makeover at Cary Family Dental, in partnership with Cary Magazine. Pat Mitchell entered her photo and story online, and was chosen as the winner of the contest. We were thrilled to work with Pat, and we spent several months reconstructing and improving her smile. Her smile turned out beautifully, and we were so pleased to have such a big impact on her life. In the video below, watch as Pat describes the transformation, and the effect it has had on her life.



The contest was such a wonderful experience that we decided to host the contest again for 2010! You can share your story or nominate a friend on the contest site today to enter for your chance to win a Smile Makeover at Cary Family Dental!

The contest ends on April 23rd, so get your entry in as soon as possible. After this time, we will then hold a public vote online to choose a winner! Be sure to check out the official contest rules to determine your eligibility, and good luck!

Continuing Education at Cary Family Dental

Continuing education is an important part of our philosophy at Cary Family Dental. Both Drs. Acton and Maj participate in continuing education courses in dentistry every year, and recently Dr. Acton attended a week long class in Seattle. The 50 hour course provided information on how to create a better and more comprehensively treatment plan, diagnose and treat complex dental needs including periodontal disease (gum and bone problems), cavities, and jaw and bite problems.

The course was put on by the Kois Center, a world renowned dental organization, and one of the top programs of its kind in the country. There were 22 dentists from around the world at this particular course, one half of which were from Europe. Courses like these help Cary Family Dental to consistently provide the Cary community with state-of-the-art dental care and clinical excellence.

What are patients saying about Cary Family Dental?

Drs. Acton and Maj, as well as our entire professional staff, love getting patient reviews. And lately, Cary Family Dental, serving Cary and surrounding communities, has been getting some pretty great patient testimonials! We thought we'd share some with you today! Have a great week!

“Dr. Acton as always I am very glad that I made the switch to your practice. You are the BEST!!” – Dale S.

“Dr. Maj is a top notch dentist who places the quality of his patient's care above all else. As an added bonus he made the visit fun!” – Gayle F.

“My favorite dental office ever!!” – Mary S.

“Excellent staff, very caring in nature.” – James C

“Excellent experience. Feel very comfortable with the dentist and admire his technical skills. Excited to have chipped tooth fixed so beautifully. Efficient appointment allowed more work to be done than expected, including an extraction. Appreciated punctuality. Nice dental assistants.”
– Elizabeth B

Ask Drs. Acton and Maj: Why is it so important to have straight teeth?

Some people wonder why Drs. Acton and Maj and our team at Cary Family Dental work tirelessly to give our patients straight teeth. Of course it’s nice to have a smile full of evenly aligned teeth, but did you know that straightening your teeth can keep them healthier? Straight teeth lead to better oral hygiene, increasing your chances of keeping your own natural teeth for a lifetime!

Straight teeth are less prone to decay, because they collect less plaque—the sticky colorless substance that forms on our teeth and leads to tooth decay; and they are easier to keep clean! Drs. Acton and Maj specialize in Invisalign, the revolutionary way to help you get even, straight teeth without noticeable, painful metal braces. Virtually undetectable, Invisalign aligners are made of strong, clear plastic that gradually guide your teeth into perfect alignment. Unlike metal braces, they have no wires or brackets. Tooth impressions are made, from which Invisalign develops customized aligners that will slide directly over your teeth. Aligners are typically worn full time (except when eating or drinking) for 12 to 48 months—no longer than you would wear traditional metal braces. Aligners are replaced every two weeks as your teeth shift into place.

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, please give us a call to set up a consultation. Drs. Acton and Maj can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment at Cary Family Dental.

Meet Our Dentists

Dr. Allan Acton opened Cary Family Dental in 2003 and since that time, has become one of the Triangle’s most accomplished and trusted dentists. He is a graduate of the Medical College of Virginia and completed his advanced dental education residency at the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry.

In 2008, Dr. Acton graduated with honors from The Hornbrook Group’s distinguished national training program and completed training on the DuraTHIN veneer. Dr. Acton is currently only one of four dentists in the state certified to provide DuraTHIN veneers and the only dentist certified in the Triangle and central NC area. That same year, Dr. Acton was voted “Best Cosmetic Dentist” in western Wake County by Cary Magazine readers and repeated the distinction for the second consecutive year in 2009.

Most recently, Dr. Acton received a Fellowship Award from the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI). The ICOI was founded in 1972 and has 12,000 members worldwide in 89 countries. It is the world’s largest dental implant organization, as well as the world’s largest provider of continuing dental implant education and currently has 2,582 active Fellows in the United States. The awarding of Fellowship status is one of the highest honors a professional society, such as the ICOI, can bestow on a dental professional involved in oral implantology. Nominees achieve Fellowship status through their efforts in education, research and actual clinical experiences.

Dr. Acton and Cary Family Dental are also committed to their community. Together, they have raised over $60,000 for the Smiles for Life campaign, an annual four-month long campaign sponsored by the Crown Council that raises money to help children facing serious health and educational problems. The practice also provides free dental health presentations to local preschools and elementary schools in order to teach children on the basics of proper dental care.

Dr. Acton is happily married and has an adorable daughter.


Dr. Apurva Maj is proud to say he is a native of Cary and has been studying and practicing in the area since 1984. Dr. Maj graduated with honors as he earned his Bachelor of Science in Public Health at UNC-Chapel Hill and continued with his studies there as he completed his Doctor of Dental Surgery in 2004.

Dr. Maj has dedicated the last five years in providing the highest quality of care in all aspects of his profession. His patients are the most important and he continually educates himself to stay at the forefront of the latest advances in dental technology. He enjoys all aspects of general dentistry and is one of a few dentists in the area who is certified to perform conscious sedation dentistry.

Dr. Maj and his wife currently live in Raleigh and are active in the local community. His wife teaches math for Wake County Public Schools. He is extremely excited to be a part of the outstanding team at Cary Family Dental. He grew up knowing he wanted to make a difference and be a positive influence in people's lives. Dentistry was the perfect vehicle to accomplish this goal.